The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies

The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies (Peter Jackson, 2014)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Fantasy, Adventure, Action, Based on Book

The last installment of the Hobbit trilogy was much as I anticipated: full of action, beautiful scenery, a few ridiculous moments, and good for an escape. My least favorite part of the story, this part does NOT stand on its own--narrative/story is very lacking in this part. But that makes sense. If you watch it in 3D with HFR, beware, some of the battle sequences do seem a bit like a video game. Legolas is the most magical... anyway, I'm looking forward to watching the entire Tolkien collection from beginning to end, now. How long would that take, 15+ hours?

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Peaky Blinders Seasons 1 & 2

Peaky Blinders Seasons 1 & 2 (Steven Knight, 2013-)

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Rating: DSQ=12, SP=8 / Decadence

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4

Gangster, Power, WWI aftermath, Race, Class, Philosophical, Crime

Was this show made specifically for me? No, seriously, was it? Everything in this show is my favorite:
Gangster? Check.
Misunderstood male character struggling to control his own life? Check.
Masculinity gone wild? Check. (well, I guess this is a given in all gangster narratives.)
Set in the 1920s? Check.
Issues of race and class? Check.
Based on real life? Check.
Amazing soundtrack? Check.
Incredible art direction? Check.
Irish accents? Check.

Both seasons are equally amazing and addictive. If you liked shows like Mad Men and Breaking Bad and you can stomach some very gruesome scenes of fighting and gang violence, you should watch this.

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Sita Sings the Blues

Sita Sings the Blues (Nina Paley, 2008)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Animation, Religion, Love, India, Based on Ramayana, 

An interesting retelling of the Ramayana and how it applies to modern life. The animation styles are fun and engaging and the 1920s music by Annette Hanshaw works. I liked that we viewers are left to interpret the meaning and morals of the stories ourselves--everything is discussed from many angles and is left somewhat open-ended.

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Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex But Were Afraid To Ask

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex But Were Afraid To Ask (Woody Allen, 1972)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Comedy,

I'd seen parts of this film before--it's hard to go through graduate school gender studies courses without seeing the famous sperm skit. Woody Allen is at his goofiest in this collection. Some of the slapstick is a little too much for my tastes (Sleeper and Bananas are better) and some of the jokes don't translate into the 21st Century, but it is still a classic.

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The Hour Season 1

The Hour Season 1 (Abi Morgan, 2010)

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Rating: DSQ=11, SP=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=3

Miniseries, 1950s, Drama, Journalism, Mystery, Crime, Complex Relationships, Politics

We need more shows like this one--it is equal parts social commentary, romance, and film noir. It has an extremely inviting style and look. Captivating, in a word. This is a show about journalists trying to find the truth (about the world and themselves) and who are determined to share unbiased news of the world to the public. But it is not easy to find truth. And it's even harder to break down the many barriers that prevent knowledge from being shared.

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The Rabbi's Cat

The Rabbi's Cat (Antoine Delesvaux and Joann Sfar, 2011)

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Rating: Q=6, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Animation, Based on Graphic Novel, Religion, Adventure, Philosophical

What makes someone religious? And should the definition of a Jew or Christian or Muslim change depending on who is asked? This film is a wonderful tale about the meaning of existence, religion, and life. Some very tough questions are dealt with in a humorous and adventurous way. Talking cats are always a plus, too.

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A Cat In Paris

A Cat In Paris (Jean-Loup Felicioli and Alain Gagnol, 2010)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Animation, French, Crime, Grief/Coping

There are many recent films out there with a narrative that explores loss and grieving that coincides with coming of age. This beautifully illustrated animated film falls into the category. I wasn't impressed by the story line, to be honest. Even though film is a fantasy world, I just couldn't believe in the mother or the criminals. It was a little too eccentric (and I usually love eccentric!). But I liked the movement, color, shadows, and overall design.

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Ernest and Celestine

Ernest and Celestine (Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar, and Benjamin Renner 2012)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=4

Animation, Children's Story, Feel-good, Animals, Misfits, Prejudice

I was crying at the end of this film. So happy. This beloved children's book has now become (I think) a classic children's film. Such an important moral, beautifully told through a colorful and imaginative animated style. I've often imagined living in a mouse world underground. And what could be better than having a bear as your best friend?

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The Lunchbox

The Lunchbox (Ritesh Batra, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=4

India, Romance, Philosophical, Complex Relationships, Uplifting, Coping

"Sometimes the wrong train will lead you to the right station." How true is this concept. A beautiful film with color, poetic dialogue, real-life woes and dreams, and food. I loved this film so very much. If you feel stuck in a rut, if you feel suffocated by capitalistic/money-driven society, if you are lonely, if you are a romantic, if you are imaginative...watch this movie.

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Wadjda

Wadjda (Haifaa Al-Mansour, 2012)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Saudi, Feminism/Equality, Coming of Age, Drama

This is a beautiful film about freedom, about growing up and being yourself. As the film went along, I found myself feeling steadily more uncomfortable with what I was viewing--but a good kind of uncomfortable. This film is challenging. It is hard for me, a woman who grew up privileged and encouraged to be true to myself, to see a young person growing up in a culture so restrictive. Cultural difference, religious difference...it is very important to think about.

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Happy People: A Year In The Taiga

Happy People: A Year In The Taiga (Werner Herzog and Dmitry Vasyukov, 2010)

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Rating: DOCQ=6, DOCP=5 / Quite Legible

Scale K=2, Scale L=4, Scale M=3, Scale N=2

Documentary, Siberia, Fading Traditions, Hunting/Trapping, Philosophical

Another beautiful and thought-provoking documentary from Werner Herzog. In Happy People he tells us the story of a community of trappers in the wilds of Siberia, isolated for most of the year and dependent on the animals trapped over long, brutal winters by the males of the village. The men use traditional methods of fishing and trapping. They make everything from cabins to skis to mosquito repellent. It is a hard life but one that is thoroughly rewarding. A reminder of what is important in life and how self-sufficient human beings can be.

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Death in Paradise Season 1

Death in Paradise Season 1 (Robert Thorogood, 2011)

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Rating: DSQ=9, SP=6 / Average Snack

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=3

Crime, Mystery, Detective, Caribbean, Misfit

Shows about quirky characters outside their comfort zones work incredibly well, it seems. I loved to watch Joel get irritated and resist becoming part of the community in Northern Exposure. And it was hard not to enjoy the moments of raging silence that Martin struggles (unsuccessfully) to keep under the surface in Doc Martin. Richard, a detective rather than a doctor, is another maladjusted character trapped in a beautiful place that he just can't learn to love. Death in Paradise isn't a new concept--it is a detective show with a "weird" lead--but the show has refreshing writing and you can't beat the scenery. It has great music, good acting, and overall is a very light-hearted show, despite murders happening all the time.

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Filth

Filth (Jon S. Baird, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Drama, Grief, Psychological, Crime, Gritty

"I think they've left me. I think my family have left me. I don't know how. I can't remember why. You see, there's something wrong with me. There is something seriously wrong with me."

This film is about so much more than distraction and filthy behavior. At first, it may seem like a detective mystery with a lot of crudity--a corrupt cop who is trying to get promoted. But about half way through things take a turn and you start to realize that the film is quite complex, full of symbolism and meanings. And it is all very disturbing.

I find it interesting how many films today tackle the subject of coping, grief, and mental health. So many critically-acclaimed, thought-provoking movies choose this as a narrative thread. Why? It seems like people in our modern, privileged societies have their priorities out of whack or their perspectives clouded. Many of us just don't know how to deal with the complexities of life.

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Gran Hotel Seasons 1 & 2

Gran Hotel Seasons 1 & 2 (Edmund Golding, 2011)

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Rating: DSQ=10, SP=8 / DECADENCE (for both seasons)

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4

Melodrama, Mystery, 1905, Complex Relationships, Crime

Oh my goodness gracious. WARNING: This show is HIGHLY ADDICTIVE.

I thought I was a binge-watcher when I got sucked into Mad Men and then Breaking Bad. But no. Apparently, I had no idea of the manipulative hold that Spanish melodramatic television creates. The first episode of Gran Hotel was nothing special. In fact, it was a little ho-hum. But just be patient. By the second and third parts I was solidly gripped. It is a show about honor, respectability, scandal, intrigue, forbidden romance, murder, secrets, mystery, more secrets...I almost had a breakdown when the second season was over since Netflix does not have the third season available yet. If only I could speak Spanish...

If you like Downtown Abbey but want a little more "umpf" or scandal, this show is perfect for you.

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The Kings of Summer

The Kings Of Summer (Chris Galletta, 2013)

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Rating: Q=4, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

Coming of Age, Masculinity, Grief, Parenting, High School, Friendship

This was a fun coming of age film--nothing groundbreaking, to be sure. Most of the dialogue and moments felt real, no hiding or masking what teenage guys are thinking or saying. But occasionally it was a bit too dark  or a little too quirky. The father-son relationship was most fascinating, to me. And running away from home, while not a new concept, is dealt with in a fresh way.

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Boyhood

Boyhood (Richard Linklater, 2014)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=4

Coming of Age, Subtle, Complex Relationships

I was blown away by this film. It was like a scrapbook of life: we see the little moments, the big events, the meaningful conversations, the awkward encounters, the learning, the fighting, being scared, being curious...everything. It is a long film but necessarily so. I think everyone can connect with this one, so go watch this movie right now. You won't regret it.

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Parade's End

Parade's End (Susanna White, 2012)

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Rating: DSQ=11, SP=5 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=2

Based on Novel, WWI, Intellectual, Romance, Complex Relationships, Tradition, Changing Times

I read somewhere that Parade's End was a bit like a "high brow Downtown Abbey." I completely agree. This tale of changing attitudes and societal values before, during, and after WWI is one of the most compelling and understated I've ever seen. The dialogue is rich and complex. It is also delivered astonishingly well by a wonderful troupe of actors, led by Benedict Cumberbatch. It is also a love story full to the brim with tension. There are many moments where the camera lingers on a repressed emotion and you become completely absorbed in that feeling, too. This production really highlights the way human beings cope with their vulnerability: some hide behind a thick shield, some cling to the past, others lash out, still others ride out the storm.

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Sound of Noise

Sound of Noise (Ola Simonsson and Johannes Stjarne Nilsson, 2010)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Comedy, Wacky, Music, Crime, Detective

What a hilarious and absurd film! All I expected was music and goofiness and both were certainly delivered. Playing music with hospital equipment? Performing from high tension power lines? Yes, that happens. Six drummers are on a mission to rid the world of "bad" music. Great movie.

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Inequality For All

Inequality For All (Jacob Kornbluth, 2013)

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Rating: DOCQ=7, DOCP=8 / Genius

Scale K=3, Scale L=4, Scale M=4, Scale N=4

Economics, Sociology, Politics, Current Affairs

I love Robert Reich. I've loved him since I read his book Supercapitalism during my first year as a graduate student. I often have trouble summarizing exactly what I see going on in our society today but Robert Reich knows how to say it. He knows how to show it, too, with this brilliantly simple and poignant documentary. This is the type of teaching we need more of in high schools. This is what college students everywhere need to hear. Because Reich is correct--they are the future. And if we want to make positive social change in this country, it starts with education. We must understand what is happening before we can do anything about it. I loved this documentary.

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The Secret In Their Eyes

The Secret In Their Eyes (Juan Jose Campanella, 2009)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Mystery, Crime, Romance, Detective

The Secret In Their Eyes is a wonderfully crafted story of fear and love. It is a thrilling detective mystery that jumps back and forth between present and past. It is about writing and uncovering the truth. It is about coping with loss and serving justice on those who must be punished. I enjoyed the tale and found myself very much engrossed in the subtle twists and turns of the plot. If you like mysteries tinged with romance and politics, you will like this one.

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The Constant Gardener

The Constant Gardener (Fernando Meirelles, 2005)
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Rating: Q=6, P=4 / Average OJ
Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=1

Mystery, Thriller, Investigation, Spy, Africa, Corporate Crime

A fascinating mystery that at times feels like a documentary. Meirelles is a master at shedding light on the realities of the world we live in but still telling a fictional story. In this one, he shows us the very real ugliness of "health care" in Africa over the last few decades. The imagery is haunting, the investigation is tense, the people feel real. Ralph Fiennes is captivating as he pours out deep emotion through his body language.

I can't say I'd watch it again because it was hard to watch, at times. I have a real problem with corporate/white collar crime. But it was definitely worth watching once.

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The Painting

The Painting (Jean-Pierre Laguionie, 2011)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=4

Animated, Foreign, Philosophical, Adventure

I've often imagined a story about the characters in a painting, living in a world confined by a canvas frame. This film is amazing in so many ways: it is vivid, imaginative, quirky, and philosophical. It is a tale about the complexity of society, about race and power and hierarchy. It is also a story of adventure and learning to seek the answers to difficult questions. Beautiful, thought-provoking, and stunning.

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A Tree Grows In Brooklyn

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn (Elia Kazan, 1945)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Drama, 1900s, Based on Novel, Coming of Age, Grief, Family, Tearjerker

What a beautiful, beautiful film. We need to watch films about the past, for many reasons. Lifestyle and environment were very different but values, the importance of dreams and goals, and the complexity of relationships haven't changed all that much. It's a reminder that the human race has always been adaptable and resilient. It reminds us that people everywhere wish to strive and succeed and create a stronger and happier next generation. Francie is one of the most lovable and relatable characters that has ever been on a film screen. We hope and dream and cry with her. She represents all young adults who must cope and learn to find the light in an often crushingly harsh world.

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The Cider House Rules

The Cider House Rules (Lasse Hallstrom, 1999)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Drama, Coming of Age, Complex Relationships, 1940s, Orphanage

We all must venture out in order to discover what we have left behind. This story, based on a novel, is clearly paying homage to Homer's Odyssey and the many trials we go through as we come of age. The world is full of light but there is also much darkness. The cinematography and art direction brings this tale to life--beautiful stark colors and lighting. Rachel Portman's soundtrack is enchanting, as well.

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Bottle Rocket

Bottle Rocket (Wes Anderson, 1996)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=3

Witty, Whimsical, Coming of Age, Comedy

I love Wes Anderson. And I've felt bad for the longest time because I hadn't watched his directorial debut. Now I have and everything seems right. The film is fun, quick-paced, and reflective. At its core, the film is about motivation, discipline, loyalty, and taking ownership of one's life. Owen and Luke Wilson are fantastic, the writing shines (pretty amazing for a first full-length film, really), and the comedy is perfectly timed. And what a great soundtrack.

I once took a quiz titled, "Which Wes Anderson Film Character Are You?" and I got "Anthony from Bottle Rocket." I can now say that this seems accurate, I couldn't before.

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Cape Fear

Cape Fear (J. Lee Thompson, 1962)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Thriller, Suspense, Crime, Based on Novel

I can't quite describe my reaction to this film. I had read about it and knew that its villain, Max Cady, is legendary in the film canon. But nothing can really prepare you for the disturbing qualities Robert Mitchem brought to every evil character he played. Maybe it's the non-nonchalant, meandering walk. Maybe his slow drawling voice. How can a straw hat and cigar become creepy?

This story is not just thrilling, though. It is an interesting tale of ethics and manipulation. Are the rules we put in place worth upholding? Or should they bend? And for whom should they bend?

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Kisses

Kisses (Lance Daly, 2008)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Coming of Age, Runaways, Complex Relationships, Social Realism

A subtle, somber, and uplifting film about the strength of friendship. Dylan and Kylie are victims of a less-than-fortunate life and their journey through the streets of Dublin together offers them a change from the depressing and, arguably, unsafe world they call home. But it also teaches them about trust, security, and love.

That Bob Dylan is a running theme is also a fun bonus :)

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My Neighbors The Yamadas

My Neighbors The Yamadas (Isao Takahata, 1999)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Animation, Japan, Family, Light, Heartfelt, Comedy

What a fun little collection of tales! I loved the watercolor animation style, the poetry between stories, the cute and relate-able characters, and the quirky music. If you enjoy Studio Ghibli films you'll probably like this one. It is meant to be more like a collection of comics than a full-length drama. Is this the Japanese version of  such classic American comics as Foxtrot or For Better or For Worse? Maybe even Cul De Sac?

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Don Jon

Don Jon (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, 2013)

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Rating: Q=5, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Drama, Comedy, Relationships, Masculinity

The directorial debut of Gordon-Levitt was definitely a success. Job well done. This story isn't anything new or amazing but it is particularly apt for the time. Masculinity, sexuality, and the role of men in our society are all very important topics that seldom meet with much discussion outside of academia. And even within academic circles the issues facing young men today are often swept aside. I liked Don Jon. I know lots of young(ish) men who have unrealistic expectations and goals about life and relationships. Many young women, too. This film is a lighter take on our strange and confusing "social" world.

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The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Francis Lawrence, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction, Coming of Age, Survival, Corruption

The second installment of this distopian series was really stellar. Yes, it was very depressing. Yes, it was tense. Some of the moments felt forced but it never bothered me. I was drawn into the conflicts and the games. I especially enjoyed the parallel of individual character development and growth AND the slow uprising of the world. Beautiful visuals, music, and art direction. Can't wait for the next part this year.

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Gravity

Gravity (Alfonso Cuaron, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

Philosophical, Beating the Odds, Survival, Space, Visually-stunning

Gravity is a stunning visual film. It is also eerie, disturbing, and tense. Almost the entire film is difficult to watch because it is so realistic and frightening. Drifting above the earth with almost no oxygen is certainly a nightmare. Having the emotional, mental, and physical strength to persevere and survive is inspiring to contemplate. But I feel I would have been more convinced if the character's story was a different one. Dr. Stone is a mother who lost her child and feels she has no reason to live. On earth, she only worked and drove aimlessly. What made her want to become part of a mission in space? And how was she initially able to push herself to stay alive with this mentality? Then lose it and regain it again--in terrifying circumstances with absolutely no human support? It begins to feel symbolic but it's still vague...

The last fifteen minutes of the film are by far the most interesting and then the film is over, which worked in the plot and philosophically but it still disappointed me. I wanted the human survivor to be more relate-able so that her descent from space through the atmosphere into the ocean and onto land was more symbolically meaningful.

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From Up On Poppy Hill

From Up On Poppy Hill (Goro Miyazaki, 2011)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

Animation, 1960s, Grief, Coming of Age, Romance, Complex Relationships

What a beautiful story and film. I love pretty much everything that Studio Ghibli has produced (personal favorite is Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbor Totoro) and this is definitely true of From Up On Poppy Hill. The characters are realistic, the artwork is enchanting and intricate, the story is part fantasy, part fairy tale. This story is about living with change, adapting, and growing up. But it is also a wonderful tale of nostalgia. Umi and Shun show us the importance of remembering the past through creativity, restoration, memory, and quiet gestures.

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Inside Llewyn Davis

Inside Llewyn Davis (Joel & Ethan Coen, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3
 

Music, 1960s, Bleak, Philosophical, Folktale
 

My soul crumbled a little after watching the latest Coen Brothers film. Inside Llewyn Davis made me painfully aware of how undervalued the arts (and artists) are in our society--it is an age old story. Llewyn is a true artist--his heart full of passion and love for the music he plays. But he gets no money from his recordings or gigs. He has no bed to rest in, only other people's couches or floors. He doesn't even have a coat or boots to keep him warm in the bitter New York winter. Even when he journeys hundreds of miles and sings from the very depths of his soul, he is denied. Because, he is told...there isn't any money in his art. And he sees the acts, hears the silly songs, and learns about the deeds that do bring comfort and cash and it disgusts him. This is 1961. Sadly, little has changed.

Oscar Isaac amazed me (why have I never heard this guy until now?) in being the character I know so well. I think all true artists have a little bit of Llewyn inside, trying desperately to find a place that is not hostile or false feeling. And company that appreciates real talent...like I said, my soul crumbled a little.

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Philomena

Philomena (Stephen Frears, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2
 

Philosophical, Separation, Grieving, Mystery, Complex Relationships
 

Forgiveness is an act which shows tremendous mental and emotional strength. Philomena is a moving story about a woman who has wrestled for years with shame, guilt, and hatred but chooses to forgive rather than be angry. She chooses to smile and be gracious rather than brood and become cynical. It is not just a mystery tale about adoption or an investigation into the secrets of a nunnery. There are subtle philosophical moments and quiet lines that make you think about how you are living your life. Is revealing the truth enough repentance? Dame Judi Dench and Steve Coogan make an amazing pair. Watch this film and you will wish to feel a bit lighter.
 

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Nebraska

Nebraska (Alexander Payne, 2013 )

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3
 

Dark Comedy, Witty, Understated, Age, Father/Son
 

I really enjoyed this film. I went in knowing that the film would be about an old curmudgeon who thinks he's won a million dollars. I knew it would be funny and bleak. But the film is much more than these things. For me, Nebraska is about inevitability. It is a very philosophical excursion in understanding and appreciating the journeys we make. In a way, the film reminded me of The Last Picture Show, which is interesting because that film is about coming of age. Nebraska is coming of age at a different point on the road, a point which appears hazy, distant, and far too close to the end. Nobody wants to lose the things that have defined his/her existence whether it be a car, a house, a girlfriend, memories, or reputation. Best to embrace this awkward and scary part of life.
 

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12 Years a Slave

12 Years a Slave (Steve McQueen, 2013)

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Rating: Q=8, P=5 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Slavery, Mid-1800s, Historical Drama, Gritty
 

What an emotional drain. I expected this film to hit me hard and tense every muscle in my body, and it did. Steve McQueen shows us the very worst moments of our country but also how resilient and hopeful the human spirit can be. There are a fair number of scenes that are incredibly difficult to watch but they need to be watched--these events happened. And happened frequently. I urge everyone who lives in the USA to watch this film and think about it.

Michael Fassbinder is undeniably creepy and disturbing as a slave master. Paul Dano is under-appreciated and amazing, per usual. One "character" that is utterly amazing is the musical score. Incredibly moving. I can't say I will watch it again soon but I feel a better person for watching it once.

 

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The Grand Budapest Hotel

The Grand Budapest Hotel (Wes Anderson, 2014)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=4

 

Literary Homage, Whimsical, Melodrama, Multi-Genre, Caper

 

After much anticipation (it was supremely difficult not to read many reviews and articles) I watched the latest Wes Anderson creation. In one word it is: brilliant. It is at once what fans will expect and not what they'll expect. It is quirky, fast-paced, escapist, visually overwhelming and beautiful, and completely chalk-full of intertextuality. But this film is different than many of Anderson's earlier endeavors. The biggest, I believe, is that this is a story about storytelling, not the story itself. It is about characters, not human beings. But it doesn't completely lack emotion, it is just that the emotion is at a different (broader) level. We can't really relate to Gustave, Zero, Agatha, Madame D, or others because they aren't fully real. They are recollections that have become stylized over many decades of reflection. What we can relate to is the desire to remember -- the serious need to remember -- the past. Moonrise Kingdom (still probably my favorite Wes Anderson film) does this, too, in a way. Nostalgia evokes some of the strongest responses.

 

Ultimately, this film is a tribute. It is a story within a story within a story. It is an homage to early film and melodramatic narratives, and a wild one at that. There are many moments of vaudeville and the silent film era melodramas, cartoons and comic sequences, Film Noir, even Fellini-esque qualities made an appearance. It is incredibly ambitious and meticulous. Many reviewers have likened it to the towering pastry confections that the film's Agatha bakes: "superficially frivolous with thoughtful and contemplative notes," to quote one. Yes, it is light-hearted but the more I analyze and contemplate the film, the more amazed I am at how deep it is. In the end-credits, Anderson notes that the film is much inspired by the works of Stephen Zweig, arguably the most popular writer in the world in the 1920s and 30s but now all but forgotten. Much like the characters, hotel, and long-lost poetry of the film. What is remembered? What becomes history?

 

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Kill Your Darlings

Kill Your Darlings (John Krokidas, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

 

Allen Ginsberg, Writing, New Vision/Beatnik, Coming of Age, 1945/WWII era

 

What a great film about growing up, being full of passion, breaking rules, and starting a revolution of thought. Terrific acting by Daniel Radcliffe and company. I was pleasantly surprised at how believable everything seemed. These are characters that are daunting to take on (brilliant job, Ben Foster!) and by centering the story around coming of age, it works.

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Dallas Buyers Club

Dallas Buyers Club (Jean-Marc Vallee, 2013)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

 

AIDS, Coping, Grieving, Medicine, Sexuality, Philosophical

 

This film hit me really hard, in a very good way. So many important topics are addressed, most especially coping strategies and the amazing human spirit. Some people freeze, some flee, and some fight. The characters in Dallas Buyers Club belong to that last group, any what tremendous performances. How would you respond if you were told you only had 30 days left to live? What would you do? Survival is only part of the equation

I love that this film shows how people can defy odds, strive to help others through education and awareness, and leave the world knowing they did something for the betterment of all.

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Captain Phillips

Captain Phillips (Paul Greengrass, 2013)

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Rating: Q=5, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1
 

Based on Real Events, Thriller, Drama, Piracy, Psychological
 

Glad I watched it, probably won't again. It is a thrilling ride with some very interesting psychological moments, but overall it just didn't do anything for me. Greengrass throws us into the action almost right away with very little background to any of the characters and their motivations. Language barriers are one thing, cultural barriers are another. I think I would have liked the film more with more context. There is no hostage situation where the hostage is the only victim and even though pirates die and Phillips is saved, Captain Phillips still seems to play out this way.

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Oscar Dash 2014--The Results

Oscar Results!

Sorry for the delay--a bad cold caught me on Oscar Sunday and lasted until yesterday. Still feeling under the weather but I was delighted by awards, shenanigans, and other Oscar things that happened.

I guessed right on nearly all the awards and can't wait to complete my dash now that I have more time, health, and easier access to the films--most are on Netflix this month!

The big winner, in case you didn't hear: 12 Years A Slave

Oscar Dash 2014--Update

The last month has been busy, full of Olympics, and not enough movies! But I still plan to catch up after the big event this Sunday night. In thinking about who will win, I found this link to be very cool: http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20140225-what-will-win-best-picture

Right now I'm leaning toward 12 Years A Slave but we'll see!

Lee Daniels' The Butler

Lee Daniels' The Butler (Lee Daniels, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Civil Rights, Based on True Story, Biopic, Drama

From time to time I enjoy a historical/biopic film like Lee Daniels' The Butler. This one was emotional, had good performances, and left me feeling generally more optimistic about our culture. This is a good thing, as so many films today do just the opposite. Both styles have their place and value in film. Forrest Whitaker does a fabulous job tackling this character and portraying the patient and loyal kind of heroism.

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Sherlock Season 3

Sherlock Season 3 (Mark Gatiss and Stephen Moffat, 2013)

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Rating: DSQ=12, SP=8 / Decadence

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4

 

Mystery, BBC, Sherlock Holmes, Adaptation, Thriller, Sharp Dialogue

The first season of Sherlock was about introductions (or re-introductions): reassuring die-hard Doyle lovers that this show was going to stay true to the stories and still exceed all expectations for any modern-day adaptation. The second was about solidifying: establishing loyal fans (and possibly a cultish reputation) through more marvelous reinventions of the characters and classic mysteries. There arguably has been no better James Moriarty, John Watson, Mycroft Holmes, or Sherlock. I mean, Benedict Cumberbatch completely exudes Sherlock. And how can you not love Andrew Scott's creepy/sexy villain? Anyway...

Season three is most definitely different. Gatiss and Moffat have turned a corner with our beloved characters and now the emphasis is on relationships: the sibling rivalry between Sherlock and Mycroft, the love and marriage of John and Mary, the complex friendship of John and Sherlock, etc. In fact, the episodes do not center around a crime to solve (well, you could say that they still center around a mystery, though). The fascination with how the characters interact and how Sherlock "thinks" is enough to keep watching. And that is a pretty amazing feat for any show, especially an adaptation.

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Downton Abbey Seasons 1-3

Downton Abbey Seasons 1-3 (Julian Fellowes, 2011-2013)

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Season 1 Rating: DSQ=11, SP=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=3

Season 2 Rating: DSQ=12, SP=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=4, Scale D=3, Scale E=3

Season 3 Rating: DSQ=11, SP=4 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=3, Scale D=2, Scale E=2
 

Early 20th Century, Drama, Upstairs/Downstairs, Aristocracy, Class
 

This is a truly fantastic series that seduces viewers subtly, just like the characters do each other. I found the first season amazing in the quality of cinematography, costume, set decoration, story, and characters. The acting didn't thoroughly amaze me (except for the amazing Maggie Smith) but I was drawn in by every nuance of the world. I liked to watch the interactions, the gossip, the upholding and then bending and sometimes breaking of rules. I especially found the Crawley sister relationships interesting (I had a fondness for Sybil).

The second season got even more interesting, twists and turns of the plot got more risky and the characters bloomed. Anna and Bates' relationship was definitely the highlight, Sybil running off with the chauffeur was exciting. Ultimately, the changes brought about by World War I added a new dynamic to the world of Downton and its inhabitants.

I just recently finished watching the third season and, interestingly, I was slightly disappointed. While many of the stories were surprising, most were predictable or too melodramatic. The characters didn't really grow --with the exceptions of Tom Branson and maybe Edith-- and way too much death happened (I was willing to believe in a little, but not a lot). I was hoping for the writers to do more with the dramatic changes in Britain at that time, though the introduction of Rose does start this. I was also hoping to see a little "behind the scenes" stability in the family but instead those years are skipped over. Oh well. Still a marvelous show and I am excited for the fourth season.

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Her

Her (Spike Jonze, 2013)

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Rating: Q=8, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Future, Technology, Social Commentary, Philosophical, Romance

 

Spike Jonze has created a subtle and visually-intriguing film about love and life--Her is equally about the intimate relationship humans have with technology, the relationships we have (or don't have) with each other, and--importantly--the relationship we have with the self. Joaquin Phoenix is marvelous in the many scenes he acts alone but, of course, completely with a voice. I left feeling very philosophical, indeed, about the future of our civilizations. As exciting as it seems to have such advanced technology right at our fingertips and in our heads, what will it do to our sense of self? And if the technology learns from us, evolves thanks to us...anyway, a very thought-provoking film. The film is arguably one of the most interesting romantic films ever made.

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Oscar Dash 2014--The Nominees

Oscar Dash 2014! It is here!

I've only just started watching these (seen two) and I'm totally excited to watch the rest, hopefully most of them before the big celebration on March 2. Here are the nominees for best picture:

American Hustle


Captain Phillips


Dallas Buyers Club


Gravity


Her


Nebraska


Philomena


12 Years A Slave


The Wolf of Wall Street


For all the categories, click here.

Happy Watching!