The Breadwinner

The Breadwinner (Nora Twomey, 2017)

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

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

Animation, Drama, Political, Storytelling, Coming of Age

Such an inspiring, yet difficult, film to watch. The horrors of being a woman in Taliban controlled areas is something I have a very hard time even thinking about, let alone watching. The animation style Twomey chose to use AND the beautiful storytelling as a coping mechanism, makes this one special. Worth a viewing, for sure. I think it's important to reflect on the advantages and privilege we have in our much safer, Western society.

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Happy Holidays! 400th post!

I can't believe this is my 400th post! In celebration of this, I decided to pull a post I made on my first blog (before this one) about my love of holiday cartoons. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!
----

I'm a cartoon-aholic. I have hundreds and hundreds on tapes, DVDs, and in special collections. But I'm not as interested in most new animated films and shorts - I don't like the pacing, the illustration style, or the voice-acting. As soon as they got famous celebrities to voice-act, everything changed... I'm of the classic, old-school variety who savors the fantastical and whimsical hand-drawn cartoons of the 1920s-1950s. My favorite Disney film is Dumbo and I grew up on Popeye, Betty Boop, and Felix the Cat. There were some pretty amazing cartoons in the early days. Like this triumph by Walt Disney long before the full-length films:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAdhGB2m5oo

Lullaby Land = Wonderful

Anyway, this post was supposed to be about my favorite HOLIDAY cartoons. So here goes:

5. The Night Before Christmas (Disney, Silly Symphony)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmwNQi2VYx0&feature=related

4. Christmas Comes But Once A Year (Fleischer, Betty Boop)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeMeBhkYGlg

3. Christmas Night (Fleisher, The Little King)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smGGfJ3KAC0

2. The Snowman (Briggs)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yULYLd53h4 -- part 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27lJ0szOM3c&feature=related -- part 2

1. Santa's Workshop (Disney, Silly Symphony)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5M2m8wSg8o

Happy Holidays, all! Enjoy being a kid when you watch these :)

Terry Gilliam Challenge: The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (revisited)

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (Terry Gilliam, 2009)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

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

Fantasy, Adventure, Philosophical, Whimsical

My second viewing of this film revealed that it's my favorite of all Terry Gilliam's work. It is the most "Gilliamesque" with: strange and bizarre scenes, amazing philosophical/spiritual concepts, great acting (Heath Ledger, Christopher Plummer, and Tom Waits? Plus Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell cameos??), and a lingering effect--it stays with you long after it is over. I really loved figuring out what was going on and then, once I had, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I'd definitely be one of those crazy women who leaps into the doctor's mirror.

I must say that the story is such a fantastic concept, it must be viewed. I don't want to spoil anything, so just go watch it!

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Terry Gilliam Challenge: Tideland

Tideland (Terry Gilliam, 2005)

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

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

Trauma, Coming of Age, Grief and Coping, Dark, Horror

Terry Gilliam's says in his disclaimer to the film: Some people will hate this movie. Some will love it. Some won't understand what's going on. I think that is very true. It is very disturbing, but a beautiful experiment in storytelling. I've never seen a film that was truly from the point of view of a child--that explores her reactions, her imagination, and thoughts. While the "reality" of the story was horrific, the way young Jeliza-Rose deals with her situation is fascinating and inspiring. I don't think I can watch it again, but I'm glad I did take this one on.

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Flavors of Youth: International Version

Flavors of Youth: International Version (Haoling Li, Yoshitaka Takeuch, and Xiaoxing Yi, 2018)

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

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

Coming of Age, Reminiscence, Animation

A lovely collection of stories of youth. Beautiful art and dialogue, but the English voice-acting was sub-par, in my opinion. Each story had its moments: homesickness, self doubt, and lost love. Worth watching, for sure. I enjoyed how it made me think about my own adolescent years.

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Terry Gilliam Challenge: The Fisher King

The Fisher King (Terry Gilliam, 1991)

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

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

Complex Relationships, Whimsical, Grief, Coping

What a beautiful and hilarious story of friendship and redemption. Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges make the perfect odd couple. I thoroughly enjoyed how Terry Gilliam chose to adapt the story of The Fisher King and also how he chose to show Parry's grief and coping from his traumatic loss. Grief is such a personal emotion, different for everyone. An all-around great film.

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Terry Gilliam Challenge: Twelve Monkeys

Twelve Monkeys (Terry Gilliam, 1995)

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

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

Fantasy, Adventure, Time Travel, Post-Apocalyptic, Philosophical

Time travel has always fascinated me, but stories and films about it never fail to disturb me. There is something strange and eerie about the idea of getting caught in a time loop and altering time and events. And it's so depressing to think that going back to try to prevent something awful from happening just can't be done. This story takes that to a whole new level because it is post-apocalyptic. Terry Gilliam masterfully adapted the short film "La Jetee," which I watched right after this film. Wow.

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Terry Gilliam Challenge: The Zero Theorem

The Zero Theorem (Terry Gilliam, 2013)

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

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

Fantasy, Dystopia, Science Fiction, Philosophical

Terry Gilliam never fails to intrigue me. I love that he makes his viewers work to understand what's going on and as you figure things out it becomes a marvelous, surreal ride. Christoph Waltz is brilliant as the tortured-genius Qohen. And both Matt Damon's cameo as "Management" and Tilda Swinton's AI psychiatrist are ridiculous and perfect. I'd watch this again, for sure.

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The Post

The Post (Stephen Spielberg, 2017)

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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

Politics, Journalism, Drama, Historical

What a fantastic achievement by Stephen Spielberg--and so very timely. It's still hard for me to believe how often history repeats itself. In my lifetime, it seems like we've consistently taken two steps forward and four steps back. Freedom of the press is absolutely vital. Especially in this era of information. We need to educate how to discern information and how to stand up for what is right. Films (and other art) like this help--they can make a difference. As the film poignantly states near the end of the film "from the majority opinion: 'In the First Amendment the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.'"

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Terry Gilliam Challenge: Time Bandits

Time Bandits (Terry Gilliam, 1981)

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

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

Fantasy, Adventure, Whimsical, Historical Fiction

Strangeness abounds in this adventure film. I loved the humor, surreal visuals, and plot devices. And the Monty Python-esque moments, of course. One reason why I've enjoy Terry Gilliam's films is because he likes to exist in the space between reality and dreams. So, as a viewer I am constantly asking myself, "Is this real or is this a dream?" And we never get an answer.

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Terry Gilliam Challenge

I love the film challenges. So, I've decided to do another one for this holiday season. But this time it isn't a genre. I've chosen to watch all Terry Gilliam films I haven't yet seen (and I might re-watch the other ones, too). So, here is a list of films to expect posts about over the next few months:

Time Bandits (1981)
The Fisher King (1991)
Twelve Monkeys (1995)
Tideland (2005)
The Zero Theorem (2013)
The Man Who Killed Don Quixote (2018)--once I can see it!



Possible Re-watches:
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Jabberwocky (1977)
Brazil (1985)
The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
The Brothers Grimm (2005)
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)

Cowboy Bebop, revisited

Cowboy Bebop Season 1 (Shinichiro Watanabe and others, 1998)

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Rating: DSQ=12, SP=7 / Decadence

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

Anime, Action, Adventure, Science Fantasy, Western, Noir

Favorite episodes: This is tough, because I think they are all better as a whole, but I'd probably have to say "Speak Like A Child" and "Cowboy Funk"

Re-watching this series was great. It'd been over ten years and my first viewing missed a lot, of course. This show is just spectacular in all ways: the music, animation, story lines, characters, humor, mystery, setting... everything. A group of misfits--each with their own mysterious past--always seems to work as a set-up. I especially like Ed and Ein, this crazy data-duo.

I recommend watching the series in order and also in the original Japanese. Also, be prepared to binge!

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Fame

Fame (Alan Parker, 1980)

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

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

Musical, Coming of Age, Performing Arts, High School

I'm not entirely sure why I hadn't seen this film before now--it seems like something I would have watched in high school or at least college. It was interesting to think specifically about the coming of age of performers. As a musician, I had many of the same questions and doubts about myself as the young talent in this film: "Am I good enough? Could I make it? Is it worth the risk? Will I ever be discovered? Will I eventually hate doing my art for a living?" etc. I don't think these questions will ever change or cease. And we will always need them.

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Erin Brockovich

Erin Brockovich (Steven Soderburgh, 2000)

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

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

Drama, Complex Relationships, Environmental Issues, Law

What an inspiring and important story. And one that definitely keeps your attention. This was Julia Roberts's best role, in my opinion--she nails every line. And the chemistry between her and Albert Finney is spectacular to behold. A great pairing. It's unbelievable to me that we live in a world with people and organizations that commit such heinous acts of cruelty to the earth and human beings. It happens all the time, everywhere, and right now as we speak. It makes me feel a bit more hopeful to know that there are heroes out there trying to right the wrongs. But we need more. And especially more in the leadership of countries--the law and policymakers.

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Mary and the Witch's Flower

Mary and the Witch's Flower ( Hiromasa Yonebayashi and Giles New, 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

Animated, Coming of Age, Magic, Fantasy, Adventure, Based on Book

I really enjoyed this film--such glorious animation for the first out of Studio Ponoc. I am certain that this new animation studio will be successful. I would have liked to watch it in the original Japanese, but I didn't have the option. This is a story in the vein of Harry Potter and Kiki's Delivery Service, but it does hold its own. A fun escape for all ages!

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October Thrillers Challenge: Frankenstein

Frankenstein (James Whale, 1931)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

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

Classic, Thriller, Suspense, Based on Book

It was fun to watch Frankenstein in its entirety, since there are so many classic scenes and lines. I especially found it fun to compare it to the many, many other versions of the tale that I have seen over the years (a personal favorite will always be Mel Brook's Young Frankenstein).

From this little challenge, I've discovered that my new favorite classic actor is Dwight Frye. I'll be investigating more from this exceptional character actor soon!

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Ladybird

Ladybird (Greta Gerwig, 2017)

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Rating: Q=7, P=4 / Can't Get Enough

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

Coming of Age, Complex Relationships, Mother-Daughter

This film feels so real. Senior year of high school is a meaningful, crazy, exhausting, and difficult year. For me, it was a roller-coaster of emotion, much of it negative and awful. But it was also rewarding. I love that this film shows us how strong the bond between mother and daughter can be. Even when it looks ugly. And it can look brutally ugly. Ladybird also shows us that first loves can be fleeting and disappointing, that friendship is confusing, that it is difficult to prove yourself when you don't even know yourself...and then comes those first few weeks of college. So dramatically different from everything before. And then you realize what you had. A truly wonderful film.

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October Thrillers Challenge: Dirty Harry

Dirty Harry (Don Siegel, 1971)

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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

Thriller, Crime, Action

As I expected, this film just wasn't for me. Clint Eastwood is certainly a legendary actor but his style has never been my favorite. I suppose that makes sense because he is more of a physical actor, not a talker. This movie is all about the chase and doesn't give much depth of characters, which is fine but I always like to know more about the "why." Scorpio is one of the creepiest villains I've seen in film, so that doesn't help my personal score for the film. I do, however, appreciate the action shots and suspense throughout.

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October Thrillers Challenge: Invasion of the Body Snatchers

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (Don Siegel, 1956)

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Rating: Q=4, P=4 / Average OJ

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

Thriller, Aliens, Action, Horror

A true classic thriller that still has terrifying moments, but I'm sure they were much more effective back in 1956. The many remakes of this film are certainly scarier, if that's your thing (it isn't mine!). I can imagine the timeliness this film had during the age of McCarthy. Most of this film is running away and trying to stay awake. Humanity is to valuable to lose.

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October Thrillers Challenge: Dracula

Dracula (Tod Browning, 1931)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

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

Thriller, Vampires, Horror

It was fun to watch this classic, especially after having seen other versions of the story and reading the book (one I read and studied in graduate school). Bela Lugosi's portrayal of Dracula is iconic, strange, almost comical. Dwight Frye as Renfield is even creepier: "He came and stood below my window in the moonlight. And he promised me things, not in words, but by doing them."

It's interesting to think about how much influence this film has had on multiple film genres--especially vampire films. While I liked this classic, I still prefer Coppola's 1992 version of the book. It's more detailed and complex. Plus Gary Oldman is fantastic.

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I, Tonya

I, Tonya (Craig Gillespie, 2017)

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

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

Biopic, Drama, Crime, Comedy

Wow. Just wow. The acting in this film is unbelievable. It's hard to believe that the events depicted in this film all really happened. I remember them happening but it's still so entirely surreal. And the interviews in the film were based on real interviews. Crazy. This film is a ridiculous, insightful, disturbing, and hilarious romp that sheds light (kinda) on a scandal that gripped our nation for a few months. It's also a very telling story about circumstance. And systemic flaws. And stereotypes. When it was over, my head was still spinning like Tonya on the ice.

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October Thrillers Challenge: King Kong

King Kong (Merian C. Cooper & Ernest B. Schoedsack, 1933)

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

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

Classics, Thriller, Adventure

The original thriller, some critics have written, was a fun escape for me. The thrills are still there even after 85 years, though certainly not to the same extent as in the 1930s. I can imagine that this film, back then, would have been miraculous and even terrifying. Certainly awe-inspiring on a big screen. The brutal and violent moments surprised me--even made me gasp. And the Empire state building ending scene is still one of the best in film.

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SPECIAL October 2018 Thrillers Challenge

Six years ago, when my blog was still fairly new, I created an October Challenge for myself: watch 10 classic thrillers. Some I'd partly seen and some were new to me. I also predicted what I would rate each film, too, which was fun. I was pretty accurate but also surprised by some.

I thought it would be fun to do it again this year, but with fewer films (I don't have the time like I used to!). Below is my list with my anticipated ratings.

1. King Kong (1933)

Elizabeth's Predicted Rating: Q=4, P=4 Average OJ

2. Dirty Harry (1971)

Elizabeth's Predicted Rating: Q=5, P=3 Thanks But No Thanks

3. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)

Elizabeth's Predicted Rating: Q=5, P=5 Average OJ

4. Frankenstein (1931)

Elizabeth's Predicted Rating: Q=4, P=4 Average OJ

5. Dracula (1931)

Elizabeth's Predicted Rating: Q=5, P=4 Average OJ

Swing Time

Swing Time (George Stevens, 1936)

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

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

Musical, Dance, Romance

What a great American classic. Swing Time is considered one of the best musicals ever and is part of the National Film Registry for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." The story is sweet and cheerful and captures a time and place--1930s New York City. It has witty dialogue, a few hilarious moments, incredible and captivating dances, and beautiful songs. What's not to like?

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Boys Town

Boys Town (Norman Taurog, 1938)

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

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

Coming of Age, Masculinity, Tearjerker

Instant love. Had I chosen to write my thesis about classic Hollywood films, I would have included this film. Watching this one in 2018 America was unfortunately, very relevant. Just like Father Flanagan, I believe that all people have good in them and there is "no such thing as a bad boy." Bad men, certainly, but not boys. I'm reminded of the many books I read about masculinity and coming of age in film- a favorite quote, by Guy Austin, is “Masculinity has nothing to prove yet somehow needs constantly to prove itself." This statement has been ringing in my ears for several years now, as I see more and more angry and violent men in the news. I wish our society would do more to help boys from an early age--teach them to be kind, respectful, and worthwhile. I know without a doubt that it starts with love.

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Gunga Din

Gunga Din (George Stevens, 1939)

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

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

Adventure, Action, Based on Book, India, late-19th Century

If there was a category for "the ultimate action-adventure flick," this one might earn the title. Or at least it was one of the first greats. Gunga Din is also hilarious and has some great suspenseful moments. While watching, I couldn't help but wonder if Stephen Spielberg was influenced by this story and film for Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. I looked it up later and, of course, Spielberg's screenwriters wrote the screenplay based partly on Gunga Din. Points for the film student! :) It's definitely a fun escape.

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Moby Dick

Moby Dick (John Huston, 1956)

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

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

Adventure, Action, Based on Book, Whaling, Philosophical

A timeless film for a timeless story--and one that I'm told is also a fine adaptation of the complicated novel (I haven't read it entirely, so I can't say). The rising anxiety and suspense is well-captured, the whaling rituals and routines are fun to observe. Gregory Peck plays the obsessed Ahab to perfection-admirable, stoic, crazy, and scary.

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Kim

Kim (Victor Saville, 1950)

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

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

India, 19th Century, The Great Game, Adventure, Action, Politics, Coming of Age

Every once in a while I like to watch movies of the "epic adventure" category. My favorite ones are from the 1950s, when action editing was just starting to improve and the stories still took center stage. The pacing and atmosphere of these films have that nostalgic feeling that I love. Kim is a great example of this. It's especially fun to watch a young Dean Stockwell play alongside Errol Flynn. Rudyard Kipling's story is wonderful and while the adaptation may not have become a timeless classic, like The Jungle Book, it is still a fun escape.

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Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman (Patty Jenkins, 2017)

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

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

Action, Comic, Adventure, War, Mythology, Epic

The film that took the entertainment world by force! It was a fun romp, plenty of action sequences that were full of women, which was a welcome surprise to most female audiences including me. The feminism and female lead roles wasn't my favorite part, though. I really enjoyed the mythological aspects of the film and the idea that a woman-god was born to destroy war. That sounds great, but it's not that easy to eliminate the dark side of humanity (as Diana learns, of course). A great escape.

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Dark Victory

Dark Victory (Edmund Goulding, 1939)

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

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

Drama, Disease, Coping, Tearjerker

What a tremendous performance by Bette Davis! I'd read and heard many times about this film and the popularity it had with audiences, but had never watched it until now. It's a beautiful story about coping and living your life to the fullest. We all know our days are numbered, but what do you do if you know how it will happen? A tearjerker, for sure, and a story about facing truth, coming to terms, and finding peace.

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The Doctor Blake Mysteries Seasons 1, 2, & 3

Doctor Blake Seasons 1, 2, and 3 (George Adams and Tony Wright, 2013-present)

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Season 1 Rating: DSQ=9, SP=7 / Sweet Treat

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=4
   Favorite from Season 1 = "Someone's Son, Someone's Daughter"

Season 2 Rating: DSQ=10, SP=7 / Decadence

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=4, Scale D=3, Scale E=4
   Favorite from Season 2 = "A Foreign Field"

Season 3 Rating: DSQ=10, SP=8 / Decadence

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4
   Favorite from Season 3 = "Women and Children"

1950s, Australia, Mystery, Medical, Complex Relationships

I've been thoroughly enjoying this wonderful mystery series--another from Australia that just gets it right. Great characters, lots of focus on clues and getting to the truth, and a fun time/setting. At times the relationship between Dr. Blake and his housekeeper, Jean, drove me crazy (get together, already!) but just like Phryne and Jack in the Miss Fisher mysteries, it's that tension and suspense that keeps you watching.

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The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray (Albert Lewin, 1945)

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

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

Drama, Thriller, Philosophical, Psychological

A wonderful adaptation of a classic story. I find it strange that human nature hasn't changed--there will always be vanity, selfishness, and narcissism, it seems. Dorian Gray is a timeless character and an important reminder of what not to be and what not to do.

This film is full of suprises--beatufiul camera shots, crisp details and wonderful performances. And the timing and atmosphere of the story add just the right amount of suspense to the horrors the characters face.

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Captains Courageous

Captains Courageous (Victor Fleming, 1937)

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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

Father/Son, Sailing, Coming of Age, Adventure, Based on Book

This film is nothing less than marvelous. A true classic that I think still captivates a modern audience. It is full of action/adventure to keep a good pace but also has the important moments of conflict, reflection, and love. It is a great Coming of Age film that shows how vital a father/son relationship can be to a boy. And it is wonderful to watch young Harvey's transformation. I'd watch this again tomorrow, I enjoyed it that much.

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Sweet Smell of Success

Sweet Smell of Success (Alexander Mackendrick, 1957)

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Rating: Q=6, P=4 / Average OJ
Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Reputation, Complex Relationships, Journalism, Noir, New York

What dialogue! This film is a joy to listen to--the words, the jazz music, the atmospheric sounds. It's a kind of writing we don't see in films anymore. Wonderful slang/phrases of the time and place (Beat culture) and every line delivered is descriptive. The story itself is essentially about two men who spend their life building a web of lies and slander to gain control over people and situations. Reputation is important in this world--more important than anything else. That kind of plot gets to be too much for me, so I'm not sure I'd watch the film again. But this one is definitely a classic.

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Black Panther

Black Panther (Ryan Coogler, 2018)

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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

Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Race, Globalization

Finally saw the film that everyone has been talking about all year. Black Panther really was tremendous. Rather than try to write out my thoughts, I encourage you to read this review by Peter Travers that I completely agree with.

See this if you haven't!

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Places in the Heart

Places in the Heart (Robert Benton, 1984)

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

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

Drama, Great Depression, Grief, Race, Hope

A beautiful story about determination and hope in a time of hardships and tragedy. I love films about the depression era because they usually show people with amazing grit triumphing over incredible odds. Places in the Heart has painful scenes of racism and scary moments of destruction. But also so many uplifting, hopeful moments too. It is a reminder that even in the bleakest hours we can pull through. And even when it seems like giving up is the only option, there is a way to keep going.

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Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (Martin McDonagh, 2017)

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

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

Crime, Grief, Complex Relationships, Vengeance

What absolutely stellar performances from Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell. Their Oscars were well-deserved. This film is depressing but somehow also cheering and surprisingly funny at times. Grief is a complicated emotion and a process that is different for everyone (as I've written about many times on this blog). Mildred takes her grief to another level--the level of vengeance. And she stands for all mothers and women who have had enough.

It's frustrating to see the reality that some crimes are never solved. And justice sometimes isn't served. And guilty people walk freely among us. An important and sobering story.

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White Heat

White Heat (Raoul Walsh, 1949)

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

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Gangster, Crime, Film Noir, Complex Relationships

Another James Cagney classic. I'd seen the end sequence before but never the whole film. I thoroughly enjoyed every scene and loved watching the cops (good guys) catch up with the gangsters/escaped prisoners (bad guys). You really want the bad guys to succeed, thanks to the brilliant writers and directing of Raoul Walsh. Cody is psychotic and has the strangest mother complex (a theme we see again later in Hitchcock's Psycho) His violence and craziness is one of the best villains ever.

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Public Enemy

Public Enemy (William A. Wellman, 1931)

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

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Gangster, Crime, Classic, Film Noir

I found this film very entertaining, especially the dialogue and relationships between characters. Gang members are more family than actual family, it seems. A life of crime is a short life, as the film proclaims at the end:

The end of Tom Powers is the end of every hoodlum. "The Public Enemy" is not a man, nor is it a character--it is a problem that sooner or later WE the public must solve.

James Cagney gives one of his most celebrated performances. Still a great film after nearly 90 years.

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Thelma and Louise

Thelma and Louise (Ridley Scott, 1991)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

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Adventure, Crime, Friendship, Complex Relationships

This is another film that I knew a lot about but hadn't fully seen until now. Thelma and Louise is a good story with some very serious moments (that were difficult for me to watch) and very important messages. It feels good to watch women feel empowered and in control during their most scary and vulnerable moments. Even though they may be running away, they are still going forward. Philosophically, this film is full of hope to live your life to the fullest. And what iconic scenes!

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Rocky

Rocky (John G. Avildsen, 1976)

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

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Drama, Motivation, Boxing, Romance

This summer I've been watching movies that I know a lot about but haven't fully seen. Raging Bull was one and now Rocky. (It's just a coincidence that they are both about boxers). It's a really weird combination, I think, especially once you finally watch. The thrill of not knowing what to expect or how things will play out is missing, so it can be somewhat underwhelming.

But I still enjoyed Rocky. I appreciated the gritty atmosphere and quiet pacing. In fact, I'd argue that the slow build-up is essential in order for the audience to connect with Rocky's character and story. It's definitely still a classic and one that makes you smile.

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Little Caesar

Little Caesar (Mervyn Leroy, 1931)

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

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Gangster, Crime, Drama

I have to admit, I got a little giddy watching Little Caesar--it brought me back to my graduate film studies days. So much to analyse and enjoy! If you like well-known gangster movies--Goodfellas, The Godfather, Scarface, etc.--you owe it to yourself to watch the classics that started the genre. Edward G. Robinson is fantastic, even though at first it might feel like his acting is over-the-top--theater's influence on film acting is still fresh. And the artistry of this one, too, is just magical. Such beautiful angles, lighting, and scene.

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Harry Potter, revisited

I recently re-watched the entire Harry Potter series of films--in chronological order, of course. I have enjoyed the stories and the films since they came out (I think I saw the all of them in the theater, too) but hadn't done the full eight-in-a-row experience before.

Going in, I anticipated that I would like the last four films most (directed by David Yates) because they are more complex, political, philosophical, and dark. I also thought my favorite film would be Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It's true that I really enjoyed that one but I can no longer claim it as my favorite. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince has taken over as my favorite--just so much going on and layers of mystery.

I wasn't surprised that I rated the last film--Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II as the best quality film. The visuals and acting, in my opinion, are at their best in this one. And it's hard not to appreciate and get excited by how all the mysteries are answered and the final battle completes the story. I've included below a few moments I enjoyed in each film (plus individual ratings).

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Chris Columbus, 2001)

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

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This one is heartwarming-Harry finally feels like he belongs and has a home. His relationship with Hagred makes me teary every time. My favorite scene is when he gets his wand from Mr. Ollivander.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Chris Columbus, 2002)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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My least favorite film, but a very important story in the series. People becoming petrified and the possibility that a dark lord is returning is really frightening. This story also perfectly captures what it feels like to be 12, I think. Rumors and gossip and clicks, etc. abound. I think my favorite is the first use of poly-juice potion to interrogate Malfoy and his cronies.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Alfonso Cuaron, 2004)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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I love any story that manipulates time, and JK Rowling really made a masterful story around time travel. The Marauders map is definitely the best part of this one ;) And the introduction of both Professor Lupin and Sirius Black.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Mike Newell, 2005)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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So many fantastic moments! Figuring out each of the tests of the tournament is fun to watch, so are the actual tests. The relationship between Ron and Harry is tested and it is difficult to watch, but very realistic. As is the painful teenage dance. The end of the tournament is the hardest scene for me to watch of any Harry Potter film.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (David Yates, 2007)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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For years this was my favorite of the series because I think that 15/16 is the most interesting age. And, of course, the perfect age for rebellions. Losing trust and then regaining it is a great thing to behold. My favorite scenes are in the Room of Requirement. This film is also important because of how Rowling shows the Nazi/fascism that unfolds as a result of fear. It is particularly eerie watching it now in 2018...

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (David Yates, 2009)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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My new favorite of the series, for many reasons: apparating, the Half-Blood Prince's potion book, more mysteries involving Snape and Dumbledore, Liquid Luck, introduction of Horcruxes, much more of Harry's past revealed.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 (David Yates, 2010)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

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This one moves slowly but is full a interesting moments and some revelations, too. The story of the deathly hallows is a beautiful sequence--love that animation.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (David Yates, 2011)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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A marvelous conclusion to the mysteries that began in the first installment. And arguably the best visuals of the series, too. I loved the "limbo" sequence when Harry talks to Dumbledore at the very clean King's Cross Station.

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