The Martian

The Martian (Ridley Scott, 2015)

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

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

Sci-Fi, Adventure, Survival, Space Travel, Human Spirit

I really enjoyed this film, for its uplifting and inspirational quality. Yes, it's about astronauts and space exploration but it is really more about survival and endurance. Matt Damon's performance is one of his best ever, bringing you to tears of sorrow and joy almost in the same instance. And he's really funny.

We owe it to ourselves to reflect on human existence-- the impact we make as a species and as individuals. This film makes definitely does this...and still lets you escape.

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I'm Back!

I'm Back! Sorry for the hiatus in posts but this summer was a busy one! A busy work schedule in June and early August PLUS a long vacation abroad for much of July and August means not much movie watching. But I do have plans to watch many classics, animation, new award winners, etc.

Theeb

Theeb (Naji Abu Nowar, 2014)

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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

WWI, Complex Relationships, Coming of Age, Vengeance

Oh, if only this film had been made when I was writing my thesis! The magnificent artistry combined with the deliberate pace and unnerving story makes for a truly wonderful film. Theeb is anxious to prove himself capable and grown up. And his environment and circumstances force him to make crucial decisions of life and death. Jordan's desolate landscape perfectly reflects the isolation, heartbreak, and dramatic changes he goes through.

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Carol

Carol (Todd Haynes, 2015)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Obsession

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

Forbidden Romance, Complex Relationships, Based on Novel, 1950s, LGBT

An absolutely gorgeous and captivating adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's novel, The Price of Salt. Both Rooney Mara and Cate Blanchett perform to stunning perfection. You can feel the tension and repression of their relationship and that whole time period in every frame. This is a story about what is not spoken, about taking a risk, about being true to yourself and disregarding reputation. And unlike so many stories about forbidden love, this one actually has a hopeful end. It is also about women trying to live honestly and with dignity in a world created for men.

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