Quiz Show

Quiz Show (Robert Redford, 1994)

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

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

Based on True Events, 1950s, Television, Law, Courtroom, Crime, Philosophical

I'm not sure how this one slipped my radar, but Quiz Show is a great film that I really enjoyed. I didn't live during the early days of television, but I know a little bit about the absolute hold shows had on people. This time gave birth to celebrity-ism and brought scandal to a whole new level.

I think I liked this film more for the philosophical/ethical issues it raised than the actual story line. It was interesting to see how people wrestle with truth vs. fact vs. fiction/entertainment. And the issues of race and class were also fascinating and disappointing. We are a strange species.

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Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi

Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (Rian Johnson, 2017)

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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

Science Fantasy, Saga, Action

Compared to Episode VII, I was thoroughly impressed (see my previous post here). This Star Wars installment might be my favorite and the most "complete" story. The visuals were beautiful, awe-inspiring, and epic. Almost all the narrative questions I had in all the previous episodes were answered--finally! This was a perfect balance of nostalgia, character development, and potential. I think watching both Episode VII and VII together will be fantastic.

This story seems to be a beginning as much as an ending, which is a personal favorite kind of narrative strategy. Excited for more!

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My Life as a Zucchini

My Life as a Zucchini (Claude Barras, 2016)

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

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

Claymation, Coming of Age, Adoption, Complex Relationships

What a lovely story about coping, grief, friendship, and family. Love comes in many shapes and forms and we all encounter hardship at some point in our childhood. This is a refreshingly simple and honest film about the importance of sharing and finding comfort in relationships.

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Death Comes to Pemberley

Death Comes to Pemberley (2013)

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Rating: DSQ=9, SP=4 / Average Snack

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

Miniseries, BBC, Mystery, Crime, Romance, Based on Book

A fun adaptation of the P.D. James novel which continues the story of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Set in 1803 Britain, a unsolved murder brings out scandals and intrigue and secrets galore. Of course, all the reputation "tainting" that murder and scandal  brings to elite families must be dealt with. An excellent cast and script. Enjoyable.

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FAVORITES: American Graffiti, Radio Days, and Rio Bravo

FAVORITES for November & December:

American Graffiti (George Lucas, 1973)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Coming of Age, 1960s, Romance, Complex Relationships

Why is it a Favorite?
Early rock 'n' roll? High school? Radio? What's not to love about this? I truly fell in love with American Graffiti as a new graduate student teaching a History of Rock 'n' Roll course. One day I asked the professor if he'd let me teach a unit on music in film, specifically watching clips from American Graffiti to illustrate the concepts. It was also a perfect way to talk about how music and technology changes our culture and is still constantly changing and shaping it. He, of course, said "yes" and I had a blast sharing this great film three years in a row.

It's a thoughtful, nostalgic look at growing up in a very specific time (in this case, 1962). The music on the radio is, arguably, the best character.

Radio Days (Woody Allen, 1987)

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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, Family, Autobiographical/Memoir, 1940s, Comedy

Why is it a Favorite?
Woody Allen is one of my favorite directors, mostly because of his silliness and fearlessness in writing what he wants. While I don't love all of his films, I do really gravitate toward the stories that are about the past. Radio Days is Woody Allen's memoir, so to speak--a glorious collection of stories from his childhood. They are funny and thoughtful stories that run parallel to another story about a society revolved around the radio. Much like in American Graffiti, the radio is a character and certain songs bring to mind very specific moments.

Plus Radio Days just has so hilarious scenes and great acting. A warm, fuzzy movie.

Rio Bravo (Howard Hawkes, 1959)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Neo-Western, Witty, Comedy

Why is it a Favorite?
Another favorite writer, Howard Hawkes, was introduced to me as a film student. One of my courses was completely devoted to the director and was also comparative. We watching Rio Bravo and I fell in love. It's my favorite Western, though it's quite different from most other films of that genre. I love that the main characters feel like a family and somehow seem more real than usual good guys and bad guys. There is depth in the witty dialogue, a completeness to the plot, and surprises in the acting. Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson? And Walter Brennan? :)

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Interstellar

Interstellar (Christopher Nolan, 2014)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

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

Future, Science Fiction, Exploration, Philosophical, Thriller, Psychological

I knew before watching Interstellar about the praise that much of the scientific community gave the film. So, I had high hopes that I'd enjoy the story and the concepts. Well, I certainly did. I loved every minute of the story, was mesmerized by the cinematography and art direction, and sat on the edge of my seat for most of the amazing sequences. Thinking about what lies beyond our galaxy is fascinating, but even more fascinating is seeing an interpretation of phenomena we haven't experienced. Black holes, worm holes, the event horizon, etc. Wow. Probably the most mind-bending part, for me anyway, was tackling relativity and time. Not many films really portray this part well (or accurately) but Christopher Nolan definitely did. And knowing that many physicists agree the film's story is plausible makes it all the more exciting.

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Ex Machina

Ex Machina (Alex Garland, 2014)

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

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

Science Fantasy, Philosophical, Future, Artificial Intelligence, Thriller

OK, this one creeped me out more than I was expecting...but definitely in a good way. Essentially, this is an adaptation of the French folktale "Bluebeard," where a wealthy, violent man murders all his wives and his current wife tries to escape this fate. Of course, in Ex Machina, Bluebeard is Nathan, the founder of a company called "Bluebook" and the wives are instead his AI models.

I found the story eerie and disconcerting, at least until the twist ending. Then I have mixed feelings. But the atmosphere, the colors and quietness, the lack of information is was all wonderful. It fits. The future of the human species is unknown, especially as we continue to create machines that are more and more powerful.

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The Boxtrolls

The Boxtrolls (Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi, 2014)

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

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

Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure, Complex Relationships

With names like Archibald Snatcher, Mr. Pickles, Lord Portly-Rind, how could you not enjoy this family comedy? Cheese and silly retorts abound, fun animation sequences, and even disgusting moments of cheese-induced bodily reactions. This one is a fun escape, though it does also have some messages for children, told in not-at-all-preachy ways. Including: "Cheese, hats, boxes-they don't make you who you are. You make you."

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The Red Turtle

The Red Turtle (Michael Dudok de Wit, 2016)

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

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

Animation, Philosophical, Survival, Thought-provoking

The story of life and love with no words, just beautiful images and a thoughtful narrative. At different times of the story, I was on the edge of my seat, holding my head, laughing, and crying. Very moving.

The colors and simple drawings work incredibly well with the broad, timeless narrative. And the little hint of legend/magic was fun and spiritual.

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Stranger Things Season 2

Stranger Things Season 2 (Matt and Ross Duffer)

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Rating: DSQ=12, SP=7 / Decadence

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

Retro, 1980s, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller

I was impressed and astonished at how well-crafted and acted the first season of Stranger Things was so I had high expectations for the new season. Well, it did not disappoint. Amazing, fun, thrilling, hilarious, nostalgic, worth the wait. Each episode made sense (with moments in the 7th that were questionable) and developed the characters in all the right ways. I will be watching this one again, for sure.

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Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1 and 2

Guardians of the Galaxy (James Gunn, 2014)

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

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

Science Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Comic

I don't usually like the blockbuster/action/comic book movies, but I have enjoyed several films of this category in recent years. Guardians of the Galaxy is really fun and even though the story line is thin and characters could be better with more depth, I still think it's a great escape film. Humor is abundant and the action sequences aren't too over the top. And I love the family of misfits concept, too.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (James Gunn, 2017)

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Rating: Q=5, P=6 / Average OJ

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

Science Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Comic

The second of the series is just as good as the first, with even more hilarious lines and moments. More is learned (but not much more) about the main character's background, the family of misfits become closer and larger, and it's evident that more films are to come.

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Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children

Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children (Tim Burton, 2016)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

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

Fantasy, Coming of Age, Whimsical, WWII, Adventure

I guess I was expecting something weird, strange, and different from Tim Burton and that's definitely what I got with this one. The story is a little messy and brings about some questions but the fantasy of time travel makes up for it. I liked the creepy aspects--zombie dolls fighting and monsters eating eyeballs?!-- and the visual effects. And, of course, there is a very hopeful message. A fun little diversion.

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FAVORITES: Harold & Maude, Slumdog Millionaire, and Stand By Me

FAVORITES for September & October:

Harold & Maude (Hal Ashby, 1971)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Comedy, Coming of Age, Romance, Complex Relationship, Cult Classic

Why is it a Favorite?

When I first saw this film I was 17 years old and in my first head-over-heels teenage love experience. It was a complicated, tumultuous, and difficult time for me. How do you deal with another person's emotions? How do you make sense of your own? How do you maintain balance in your life? How do you handle judgment and reputation? Does it matter?

Harold & Maude wrestles with all of these questions. Yes, it is a story about an odd-couple romance between a young boy and an elderly woman, but it is ultimately a story about what love really means. It's also about being true to yourself and not compromising that. I think every teenager should see this film--it was life-changing for me.

Slumdog Millionaire (Danny Boyle and Loveleen Tandan, 2008)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

India, Coming of Age, Gangster, Realism, Gritty, Trafficking, Romance

Why is it a Favorite?
This film is brilliant. The artistry, the story, the themes and symbols, the young actors, the music--everything. I fell in love with this one, though, because of the social realism and the message of hope. Slumdog Millionaire is about boys growing up on the streets, it is a film about poverty and human trafficking, it is about income inequality. It is about the triumph of determination and love over choosing the easy way.

As a graduate student I wrote about one particular scene from this film: a brutal blinding of a young boy. It is a stirring, gruesome scene that turned my stomach every time I watched. But Danny Boyle shows us the strength of the love, loyalty, and will of the boys after witnessing this cruelty--it is magnificent. The power of the human spirit is awesome.

Stand By Me (Rob Reiner, 1986)

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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, Boys, Adventure, Complex Relationships, Cult Classic

Why is it a Favorite?
Is there any better Coming of Age film, really? This one is just so perfect. Four friends, an adventure, emotions, great songs, nostalgia...

Stand By Me is a classic because of the writing and the chemistry between the young actors. We believe that these four boys are best friends. Truly. And we believe that their friendship is strong enough that they aren't afraid to share their fears and struggles with each other. River Phoenix's confession scene is quite possibly the most emotional moment in any film I've seen. And even though the story centers around an adventure to see a dead body, it's not about that at all. It's about the little things--the conversations, the wandering around, the teasing and testing and supporting of each other. The essence of friendship.

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Blade Runner 2049

Blade Runner 2049 (Denis Villeneuve, 2017)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

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

Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Post apocalyptic, Philosophical

Yes. Yes. Yes. So, I loved Blade Runner and found the concept and ethics of replicants really interesting. With this new film, my enthusiasm has only increased. I love the idea of replicants rebelling and all the consequences of artificial intelligence.

Visually, Blade Runner 2049 is absolutely hypnotic, stunning, scary, beautiful. In 3D it is even more so. Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford work really well together and play their parts marvelously. Jared Leto is creepy and perfect as the self-assigned "god," Watson.

If you liked Blade Runner 1982, you'll like this one. If you never saw it, you will still enjoy this story--it stands alone.

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The Iron Giant

The Iron Giant (Brad Bird, 1999)

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

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

Animation, Science Fiction/Fantasy, 1950s, Complex Relationships

A fun film that definitely flew under the radar--at least, I don't remember hearing about it when it was released. Great animation, good story, funny in all the right ways. I am always a little annoyed at how contemporary animators draw their characters to look like the voice actors, though.

"You are who you choose to be," is a great message for both children and adults. And I found the friendly war machine who wants to be peaceful very charming, especially in an era with so much violence, hatred, fear, and war.

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Zootopia

Zootopia (Jared Bush, Bryon Howard, and Rich Moore, 2016)

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Rating: Q=7, P=5 / Can't Get Enough

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

Animation, Prejudice, Social Justice, Complex Relationships, Mystery

How refreshing! Zootopia definitely exceeded my expectations. I was especially pleased that the film wasn't full of stupid jokes and irritating voices (like so many mainstream animated films, these days). Not only is the film lively, colorful, and entertaining but it is also incredibly thought-provoking and relevant to this scary time we are living in. I love how very heavy subjects like prejudice, xenophobia, bullying, and ignorance are all discussed in a way that is easy to understand and relate to. Children should see this film and talk about it. Wonderful story.

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Ocean Waves

Ocean Waves (Tomomi Mochizuki, 1993)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

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

Animation, Coming of Age, Complex Relationships

I enjoyed this short animated story of coming of age, first loves, and high school. It's a perfectly packaged nostalgic film that reminded me of my teenage years and grappling with strong emotions. The characters are familiar--we all knew someone like Rikako. Ocean Waves is a drama, but it is lighthearted and ends optimistically. It's also fun to see the Studio Ghibli animation style in its earlier days, especially since this one is far more realistic than fantasy.

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Sahara

Sahara (Pierre Core, 2017)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

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

Animation, Adventure, Coming of Age, Belonging

This is a cute animated story about following your dreams, exploring, and taking risks despite what your society tells you. I liked that the setting was the desert and oasis with green and dusky snakes. A great tale for youngsters to learn about determination, willpower, and belonging.

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Miss Hokusai

Miss Hokusai (Keiichi Hara, 2015)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

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

Animation, Art, Japan, 1800s, Complex Relationships

A beautiful film about the great Hokusai and his equally talented daughter. The film shows Japan in the early 1800s: traditional clothing and hairstyles, bridges, merchants and peddlers, etc. There are fantastic sequences of how an artist's mind interprets situations, events, and observations. Japanese folktales are also woven into the story. This is a great little art history lesson as well as a fun escape back in time to a very different world.

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Hell or High Water

Hell or High Water (David Mackenzie, 2016)

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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

Crime, Neo-western, Detective, Complex Relationships, Thriller

This film just didn't do it for me. The story of bankers taking away farmer's lands is an old one, and a current one so I appreciated a film about it. But the other familiar stories--desperate men turning to crime, one last hurrah for a retiring detective--felt sub par; just not as good as other detective crime films. It's a dark story, gritty and sad, and you just know how it will end.

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Dunkirk

Dunkirk (Christopher Nolan, 2017)

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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

World War II, Survival, Historical

From the very first scene, I knew this film would get to me...in a good way. What a monumental feat from Christopher Nolan--making his audience see and feel the tortuous panic of the notorious battle. He shows us the countless attempts to escape, only to return back to the beach or drown in the belly of a ship or at sea. He shows us the shell-shock, how priorities, loyalty, survival and trust become murky and grey and confusing.

Nolan's editing is superb, showing the plot out of sequence for an even more pensive and disturbing feel. And Hans Zimmer's incredible score amps up the fear and desperateness to an almost unbearable level--there were moments when the score made me shiver and I could feel my stomach react.

This is an important film that is difficult to watch. It makes you think about the state of humanity, the essence of what it means to be human, the awful reality of war.

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FAVORITES: City of God, It Happened One Night, and The Motorcycle Diaries

FAVORITES for July & August:

City of God (Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, 2002)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Brazil, Gangs, Social Realism, Coming of Age, Cinema Novo

Why is it a Favorite?
This film is a masterpiece. It is gritty, dark, and disturbing, but also funny, entertaining, and escapist. It brings tears to your eyes and also gives you goosebumps. It leaves you feeling uncomfortable because of the state of humanity but also hopeful that change might happen. Meirelles does incredible things with editing, art direction, and narrative to make this story, based on true events, feel like fiction. So much brilliance.

It Happened One Night (Frank Capra, 1934)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Classic, romantic comedy, screwball, witty

Why is it a Favorite?
Frank Capra was the master of romantic comedies. He wrote wonderful lines and created moments that to this day are still funny and inspiring. He knew exactly how to place the actors in frame, he knew just when to fade or to cut the scene. I love this story because it is as hilarious as a Shakespeare comedy but as cute and happy-making as a fairy tale.

The Motorcycle Diaries (Walter Salles, 2004)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Travel, Based on Book, Social Realism, Political, Philosophical

Why is it a Favorite?
How can you not love a movie that is about travel and personal growth? When Ernesto "Che" Guevara took his epic motorcycle trip across the whole of South America he intended to see the continent on his way to practice as a doctor, but his journey showed him so much that disturbed and moved him that he changed his life completely. The awe-inspiring scenery and documentary-like aspects of this film never fail to make me yearn for the life of a traveler. Gorgeous film.

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The Giver

The Giver (Phillip Noyce, 2014)

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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, Dystopian/Utopian, Philosophical, Based on Book

I read The Giver when I was in sixth grade and it had an enormous impact on me as a young person. The narrative structure of Lois Lowry's story was almost like a mystery, the reader "waking up" along the main character, learning all the truths and lies and memories along with. And it's a powerful way to explain the concepts of society, culture, free will, right and wrong, etc. to a young person starting to think of his or herself.

This film version gets some of that right, but most of that effective structure is missing and so the power of the story is off--it feels limp. I'm not sure my younger self would have been impacted in the same way after watching this as I was after reading. So, I guess, this is a good example of an adaptation that didn't quite hit the mark. The Truman Show, a story in a similar vein, does a much much better job. But I still enjoyed The Giver and my hope is that it will get more kids to read the book.

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Mustang

Mustang ( Deniz Gamze Ergüven, 2015)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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

Turkey, Coming of Age, Gender, Thriller, Complex Relationships

I went into this film not really knowing what to expect. Oh my, it really delivered a punch. This is one of the few stories I've watched that really made my soul feel sick. A powerful display of how young women are sometimes treated in rural, conservative areas of our world--imprisoned and physically and mentally controlled by their own families.

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Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures (Theodore Melfi, 2016)

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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

1960s, Space Program, Race, Gender, Civil Rights

This movie is great in so many ways--it is thoughtful, funny, difficult, important, and true. I think the following scene in the script sums it up well:

Karl Zielinski: Mary, a person with an engineer's mind should be an engineer. You can't be a computer the rest of your life.

Mary Jackson: Mr. Zielinski, I'm a negro woman. I'm not gonna entertain the impossible.

Karl Zielinski: And I'm a Polish Jew whose parents died in a Nazi prison camp. Now I'm standing beneath a spaceship that's going to carry an astronaut to the stars. I think we can say we are living the impossible. Let me ask you, if you were a white male, would you wish to be an engineer?

Mary Jackson: I wouldn't have to. I'd already be one.

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The Bodyguard

The Bodyguard (Mick Jackson, 1992)

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

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

Drama, Action, Complex Relationships, Romance, Music

An enjoyable movie, but nothing special. It's clear this was a film to showcase Whitney Houston both as a musician and an actress. The narrative is a romantic fantasy--the beautiful celebrity falls in love with her bodyguard, the only man who truly makes her feel safe. There are some emotional moments (jealousy, hatred, fear, angst, etc.) which I wanted to explore more, but twas not to be. Still, a fun escape.

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La La Land

La La Land (Damien Chazelle, 2016)

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Rating: Q=7, P=5 / Can't Get Enough

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

Musical, Relationships, Romance, Inspirational, Arts

A bold and colorful explosion of music and dance, but also a thoughtful story about following your dreams. I appreciated that the main characters fell in love and helped each other but didn't remain together--not something you usually see in a romance but a conclusion that is very true in real life.

The best part of this film is not the music (although, the jazz was great!), in my opinion, but the visual artistry. The bright, splashes of colors jump off the screen and the dance sequences are lovely and fun. Near the end of the film is a striking homage to early musicals of the 1950s and 60s, which I also appreciated.

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FAVORITES: Antonia's Line, Central Station, and Tsotsi

FAVORITES for May & June:

Antonia's Line (Marleen Gorris, 1995)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Why is it a Favorite?
Who doesn't like a quirky movie about women and family? This one is so uplifting, too, because it celebrates the weird and non-traditional. I first saw this movie when I gave myself the goal of watching as many Oscar-winning foreign films as I could. I immediately bought the film after my first viewing. Don't believe the critics that claim this is an ultra-feminist film with an agenda. It isn't preachy, instead it celebrates individualism, independence, choice, and intelligence.

Central Station (Walter Salles, 1998)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Coming of Age, Travel, Complex Relationships, Spirituality

Why is it a Favorite?
I have to include Central Station in my list of favorites because I believe this is the film that made me want to study film. I was taking a course in college called "Cultures in Transition" where we watched films from Russia, China, and Brazil and then discussed how the films reflected the changing societies of those nations. It was a favorite class and Brazil was my favorite unit. Central Station does something to me, it transfixes me with all the subtle dialogue, gorgeous photography, and documentary-like moments. Walter Salles is now one of my favorite directors. This film also made we want to study Coming of Age films. It is a powerful story because it feels real and gets at deep-seeded, hardly expressed emotions.

Tsotsi (Gavin Hood, 2005)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Gangster, Coming of Age, Poverty, Complex Relationships, Income Inequality, Philosophical

Why is it a Favorite?

I can't praise this film enough. Tsotsi is so much more than a Gangster film or a Coming of Age film. It is so much more than a film about the slums of South Africa. There is a philosophical thread (almost spiritual) in this story that weaves its way in and out of the plot, a main character that makes you ache with compassion, a setting that will bring tears to your eyes...the story stays with you for days. Of all the films I have seen (which is a ridiculous number) this is one that I always recommend everyone view. It's startling and harsh and gritty and disturbing but also so very poignant.

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Heathers

Heathers (Michael Lehmann, 1988)

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

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

High School, Thriller, Comedy, Coming of Age, Dark

Movies about high school always entertain me, mostly because my high school experience was nothing like what the movies and shows (e.g. Freaks & Geeks) displayed. I didn't experience the clique culture and certainly never felt pressure to be popular or cool. I guess I just lucked out, because I know it existed around me. But Heathers is more than your regular high school movie. This one is crazy. All the angst and negativity you might have felt toward those students that bullied you or made your experience hellish has been funneled into Veronica Sawyer. And things get interesting really quickly when she meets someone even more angry than herself. Tons of symbolism, weird moments, and a great soundtrack.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

The Long, Long Holiday

The Long, Long Holiday (Delphine Maury and Olivier Vinuesa, 2015)

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Rating: DSQ=10, SP=6 / Can't Get Enough

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

WWII, Animated, Family, Coming of Age

I truly truly enjoyed this animated series about WWII from the perspective of children in rural France. It's beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written, with many tense moments handled very well since it is intended for a young audience. Though the war is the main thread of the series, coming of age is a stronger theme and narrative (how could it not be!?). Each episode focuses on friendship, loyalty, bravery, and intelligence and shows consequences of decisions and choices.

Netflix didn't let me what it in the original French language (grrr) but I imagine that voice-acting was superior to the English version. Still, a really fun show with important messages.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Lion

Lion (Garth Davis, 2016)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Reunions, Complex Relationships, Tearjerker, Based on Real Events, Adoption, Philosophical

This film. I can't even begin to describe how this film made me feel. This story boils down all the essential human emotions in one place and, if you let it take you in, it truly leaves you feeling grateful for life and relationships. Lion is a story about determination and willpower as much as it is about the fragility of existence. It is about fate and how in one moment your whole life can change. It is about humility and sacrifice. Most importantly, I think, it is about hope.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Fences

Fences (Denzel Washington, 2016)

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

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

1950s, Race, Family, Based on Play, Complex Relationships, Philosophical

While films that feel/sound like stage productions have never been my favorite, I did enjoy the messages of this story. And the acting was truly great--wow, Viola Davis.

This story is about choices. How much of our lives are determined for us and how much do we choose? And how do our choices and actions affect others? Fences is about struggle, battle, coming to terms with decisions and situations that are forced upon you. It is also a poignant story about family and the complicated relationships between husband and wife, father and son, brother and brother, and mother and child.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

FAVORITES: The Fall, The Lady Eve, and M*A*S*H

FAVORITES for March & April:


The Fall (Tarsem Singh, 2006)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Visually Stunning, Whimsical, Artistic, Philosophical

Why is it a Favorite?
I'm a sucker for beautiful films and films that stray from the traditional narratives. This one weaves reality with fiction, is touching and dramatic at the same time whimsical. Tarsem makes incredible art and he traveled all over the globe (28 countries) for 4 years to make this masterpiece.

The Lady Eve (Preston Sturges, 1941)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Romantic/Screwball Comedy, Witty

Why is it a Favorite?
Because they just don't make romantic movies like they used to. This one is the best, in my opinion. Barbara Stanwyck was sexy, funny, smart, and beautiful. And this story is so bizarre it's hard not to enjoy.

M*A*S*H (Robert Altman, 1970)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Korean War, Comedy, Satire

Why is it a Favorite?
Not only is this one of my favorites, it is my all-time favorite. I don't know why, really, it just makes me incredibly happy. I think this is the best dramatic comedy of all time, quite possibly the wittiest American film. And it is timeless.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Moonlight

Moonlight (Barry Jenkins, 2016)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

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

Coming of Age, LGBT, Complex Relationships, Tear-jearker

What a deeply moving story. Moonlight speaks for the young boys without fathers, without a mothers who can teach him, who are bullied and teased, who are born into dangerous communities, who are confused in a society that devalues difference. This film is a powerful visual symphony, using imagery, movement, and light more than language to express the feelings of growing up and discovering oneself. Every moment was carefully constructed and the results are beautiful. Most definitely worthy of Oscar Best Picture. A triumph.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Stranger Things Season 1

Stranger Things Season 1 (The Duffer Brothers, 2016)

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Rating: DSQ=11, SP=7 / Decadence

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

Retro, 1980s, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller

Not really sure why it took me so long to watch this. Everything about this show is refreshing, enjoyable, and escapist. Of course, those three elements make a successful TV series. I love that it is retro and makes homages to many 1980s pop culture. I love that the main characters are all nerdy kids. I love that it is weird and creepy and hilarious all rolled together. Even if you aren't that into science fiction or fantasy or horror, watch this show--there is so much more going on than those themes. I guarantee you'll like it.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

In The Heart of the Sea

In The Heart Of The Sea (Ron Howard, 2015)

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

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

Adventure, Whaling, 1800s, Philosophical, Survival

An epic story, epic film. This is the story that Moby Dick was based on and it does not disappoint. If you like seafaring stories of adventure and survival, you'll enjoy this one. If you like visuals that feel sweeping, epic, and as picturesque as a Turner painting, you're in for a treat. This film is not about dialogue or acting, but rather the escape. It is philosophical and spiritual and delves into those basic, primitive questions of life and death. A splendid story.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Oscar Dash 2017: The Results

Well that was memorable! The results are in: Best Picture goes to...La La Land! I mean, wait...Moonlight! ;)

Click here to view all the winners.


I can't wait to see all these wonderful films over the next months. Stay tuned for my reviews!

Long Way North

Long Way North (Rémi Chayé, 2015)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

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

Animation, 19th Century, Exploration, Coming of Age

Absolutely beautiful film with a unique story. I didn't really know what to expect and was truly surprised. This is the only animated film that I can think of that tells the story of arctic exploration and growing up. And it has a female main character! But the imagery of ice sheets, frozen ships, the dangers of travel in the North, etc. is all stunning. This was simply enchanting.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

FAVORITES: Amelie, Diner, and A Town Called Panic

FAVORITES for January & February:

Amelie (Jean-Pierre Jeunet, 2001)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Whimsical, Coming of Age, Adventure, Romance

Why is it a Favorite?
I saw Amelie in the theater when I was 16 years old, just starting my journey into the realm of movies and romance. This film means a lot to me, not just because it brings back memories of my teenage years and the tumultuous relationships I had, but also because it made me start thinking about what I value and who I want to be. It's a darn good film, one of the best ever made, in my opinion. It is escapist, but it also has meaningful moments. It is gorgeous in the artistry and cinematography--oh, those bold colors. It has complicated, strange, and interesting characters. It employs an interesting narrative structure...I could go on. There is a certain "comforting something" about the atmosphere of this film--like puffy clouds and chalk drawings and mud between the toes--that makes me nostalgic and contented.

Diner (Barry Levinson, 1982)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

1950s, Coming of Age, Friendship, Day-in-the-life

Why is it a Favorite?
I LOVE coming of age films that center around a group of men, as you've read on this blog many times before. Diner is definitely that, but it also has the advantage of having a very improvisational script which leads to a flow that really appeals to me. Some might call it "slow" or "aimless," but I like that. I enjoy being the eavesdropper/voyeur who just watches what's going on. Films don't have to have monumental struggles or conflicts, there doesn't need to be a big moment of truth. This film feels like real-life, the conversations, the relationships, the arguments, the little moments.

A Town Called Panic (Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar 2009)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Whimsical, Animation, Adventure

Why is it a Favorite?
I first saw this film when I was home sick and browsing through my Netflix streaming options. It looked fun and uplifting so I pressed "play." The series of reactions that ensued sounded something like this:
"What?" then
"What is this?" then
"OMG, what?!" then
"Seriously, what the **** is this?"
I have never laughed so hard and something I barely understood. This film is completely, absolutely bizarre and I love it. I can't describe it so you'll just have to watch.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here