ScarletLion's Movie Log

[cricket]

I still haven't seen Tree of Life shame on me!

[Camo]

Haven't seen Tree of Life either, the only post Thin Red Line Malick i've seen is Song To Song. Like both Anvil and Force Majeure quite a bit.

[MovieMeditation]

Haven't seen Tree of Life either, the only post Thin Red Line Malick i've seen is Song To Song. Like both Anvil and Force Majeure quite a bit.
You gotta see Tree of Life, Camo... You just gotta...

It's pretty much the epitome of new-era-Malick. Read my review - maybe it will encourage you :) https://www.movieforums.com/reviews/1347150-the-tree-of-life.html

[Camo]

You gotta see Tree of Life, Camo... You just gotta...

It's pretty much the epitome of new-era-Malick. Read my review - maybe it will encourage you :) https://www.movieforums.com/reviews/1347150-the-tree-of-life.html

Will definitely, just haven't found the time. I'll read your review after i see it want to go in as blind as possible.

[ScarletLion]

You gotta see Tree of Life, Camo... You just gotta...

It's pretty much the epitome of new-era-Malick. Read my review - maybe it will encourage you :) https://www.movieforums.com/reviews/1347150-the-tree-of-life.html

That is a fantastic review MM, one of the best I've seen on this site.

It's such an elegant, dreamlike film. Some of the final scenes were just mesmerizing.
In a small way, I could see that David Lowery's 'A Ghost Story' might have been inspired by it. Jessica Chastain is very good. Not one for those who like their movies structured like the average the popcorn flick.

[MovieMeditation]

That is a fantastic review MM, one of the best I've seen on this site.

It's such an elegant, dreamlike film. Some of the final scenes were just mesmerizing.
In a small way, I could see that David Lowery's 'A Ghost Story' might have been inspired by it. Jessica Chastain is very good. Not one for those who like their movies structured like the average the popcorn flick.
Thank you so much for those kind words. Means a lot to me.

And it really is... a very unique film; there is nothing like it really.

[ScarletLion]

'Bicycle Thieves' (1948)

https://i.imgur.com/XNlGWbV.gif

Beautiful film. On first reflection I was disappointed by the ending, and lack of "closure". But having thought more about it, the way the loop wasn't closed is a more realistic portrayal of how desperate times call for desperate measures. The father son relationship and paternal pressures are explored very well and the music throughout is terrific. I wouldn't call it a perfect film, but can understand why it's revered almost universally.

4

[ScarletLion]

'Jawbone' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/YkbbHVG.gif



Sort of like if Ken Loach made a boxing film. Gritty British drama mixed in with an underdog boxing story. I normally don't get on with sports films, or Ray Winstone, but this film had both elements and it just worked. This is largely due to a very tight script and 2 great performances ; Johnny Harris is the lead and also main scriptwriter, and Michael Smiley (has he ever been less than average in anything?) plays the boxing coach.

Harris is Jimmy, a former boxing pro who has demons to battle. Winstone and Smiley work at the boxing gym and reluctantly try and help Jimmy get back on his feet after being down on his luck too many times. This is the type of film that could have gone badly wrong as the core content seems so derivative. But due to the script (Harris' debut I think) it excels.

3.5

[ScarletLion]

'Delicatessen' (1991)

https://i.imgur.com/KefwyTI.gif

How can a movie about planet earth's apocalypse, cannibalistic murder, suicide and the inability of the human race to be sustainable be so god damn beautiful, charming, funny and spellbinding?

I never fail to be in awe of Jean Pierre Jeunet.

4

[ScarletLion]

'Baby Driver' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/XMURrAW.gif

I did not like this movie.

1

[ScarletLion]

'The Beguiled' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/7EB2QeA.gif

Sofia Coppola's remake is lovely to look at but repetitive. There are stunning shots of willow trees, architecture and grass. Then there are more shots of willow trees, architecture and grass. The three female leads (Kidman, Fannning and Dunst) do their part, especially Elle Fanning who's screen demeanour just oozes mystery and secrecy. Colin Farrell's appearance causes all sorts of quandries in the plot which explore gender, self and sexuality. But it doesn't really go anywhere beyond that. It's a very understated movie that didn't really grab me.

6/10

[McConnaughay]

I enjoyed reading your thoughts on some of these films, even if we have very differing tastes in film. (i.e. I thought "It Comes at Night" was "eh" and I thought "The Nice Guys" was Fantastic). Keep it up!

[ScarletLion]

I enjoyed reading your thoughts on some of these films, even if we have very differing tastes in film. (i.e. I thought "It Comes at Night" was "eh" and I thought "The Nice Guys" was Fantastic). Keep it up!

Thanks man. I'm never sure how many people even read these things, but it's nice to log them anyway

[ScarletLion]

'Adult Life Skills' (2016)

https://chichestercinema.org/assets/uploads/films/d64bfc6653833e9adae2736488c25cf2.jpg

Predictable, frivolous British comedy drama. But I enjoyed the sentiment. The dry Northern humour and blunt emotional elements worked a treat on me.

[ScarletLion]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1796675#post1796675

Marjorie Prime (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/dpoX83a.gif

[ScarletLion]

'The Kite Runner' (2008)

Directed by Marc Forster

https://i.imgur.com/O7aZiwM.gif

I read some glowing reviews of this film by notable critics and decided to give it a go. Right from the off, there is this fable / fantasy type feel to it where we see two young boys have a rather difficult but at the same time magical life experience in Kabul, Afghanistan. Flying kites, getting into scrapes, telling stories etc The performances are mostly fine, especially from the two father figure types (Shaun Toub and Homayoun Ershadi) who's transformation into elderly characters is very striking.

The dialogue is adequate enough apart from the very end which references one of the earlier magical moments I alluded to. It's this type of overly sentimental and hollywoodized nature of the film that really detracts from the story. The plot is based on an interesting tale and apparently a fine book which I've not read, but the film is reliant on obvious, manipulative ways to try and trigger audience emotions. Unfortunately, this had the opposite effect because the actions feel manufactured and forced - making them contrived and trite.

The film wanted to be a hard hitting emotional drama portraying beautiful friendship, guilt, love and the brutal regime of the Taleban. But I couldn't help thinking of how it really was an award hungry poor adaptaion that could have been so much better. Maybe it's one of those movies that just can't translate from the book without being those things.

For a more honest, brutal drama about middle eastern life I'd recommend 'Turtles can fly'.

2.5

[ScarletLion]

'Little Men' (2016)

https://i.imgur.com/KV9s1ys.gif

Smart enough little flick about patriarchal importance and family roles with Greg Kinnear playing the lead. Some good performances and a really fine scene involving one of the young male actors (Michael Barbieri) and an acting instructor. Didn't pack enough punch int he third act to really seal the deal though.

3

[ScarletLion]

'Contratiempo' (The Invisible Guest) 2016

https://i.imgur.com/rXfaSVK.gif

Where to start. This unfolded like a sort of crime thriller in the style of an 80s/ 90s John Grisham novel with a bit of a scandi-noir type feel. It was very intriguing and the performances were fine.

The plot itself is ​clever, and at the climax you're left with elements of mission impossible and usual suspects!

One big problem is that right from the start we're given a hint of the entire reveal. That is to say that what is happening is not what should be happening because our lead character says his visitor has arrived "early" . Therefore, if she's not on his side, then she is probably on the prosecution's side. So immediately this guest is under suspicion.

Having said that, the actual reveal is brilliantly done, and I had absolutely no idea that it was going to play out like it did. One of the best reveals I've seen in a while.

So even though there are flaws, and pretty big ones, I was able to enjoy this twisty turny movie for what it was. A very solid 7/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'Contratiempo' (The Invisible Guest) 2016

https://i.imgur.com/rXfaSVK.gif

Where to start. This unfolded like a sort of crime thriller in the style of an 80s/ 90s John Grisham novel with a bit of a scandi-noir type feel. It was very intriguing and the performances were fine.

The plot itself is ​clever, and at the climax you're left with elements of mission impossible and usual suspects!

One big problem is that right from the start we're given a hint of the entire reveal. That is to say that what is happening is not what should be happening because our lead character says his visitor has arrived "early" . Therefore, if she's not on his side, then she is probably on the prosecution's side. So immediately this guest is under suspicion.

Having said that, the actual reveal is brilliantly done, and I had absolutely no idea that it was going to play out like it did. One of the best reveals I've seen in a while.

So even though there are flaws, and pretty big ones, I was able to enjoy this twisty turny movie for what it was. A very solid 7/10


Saw this recently too. Pretty well done, I enjoyed it.

[ScarletLion]

'Leviathan' (2014)
Directed by Andrey Zvyagintsev

https://i.imgur.com/yWAy865.gif

I had to make a series of GIFs from this movie because it looked so nice. Cinematographer Mikhail Krichman has worked with Zvyagintsev on a few movies and I'm eager to catch them all after seeing this. The shots of whale carcusses, boat-wrecks, mountains and lakes draw you in to the cold, unforgiving place. As does the amount of vodka consumed.

https://i.imgur.com/lMPcWeC.gif

I'm still processing the movie, especially the third act, and there is a fair amount of religious symbolism that went over my head. But what is left is a brutal, pessimistic, moral questioning account of modern day Russia mixed with a bit of classic "story re-telling". The thing that stands out for me is the level of the performances. Aleksey Serebryakov and Elena Lyadova are just phenomenal as the two main leads. The way they express their turmoil throughout the film is off the charts. This is in part due to the quality of the dialogue too. The drunken mayor is also more than believable.

https://i.imgur.com/yq8MY4f.gif

Whether the film's central message is one of a decaying church / state or one of endless corruption is up to the viewer to decide. Perhaps it's a bit of both. Overall, it's surely going to be thought of as a masterpiece in due course.

4.5

[Ms. M]

I was impressed during watching Leviathan. Impressed by a plot mainly. It's very pessimistic movie, like most of Russian movies, but in this one special.

[ScarletLion]

I was impressed during watching Leviathan. Impressed by a plot mainly. It's very pessimistic movie, like most of Russian movies, but in this one special.

Agreed, the whole thing is just a masterclass in film-making and has a rather nihilistic tone to it. Superb piece of work.

[the samoan lawyer]

Agreed, the whole thing is just a masterclass in film-making and has a rather nihilistic tone to it. Superb piece of work.


Agree with this. Its pretty bleak the whole way through. Great film.

[Ms. M]

Agreed, the whole thing is just a masterclass in film-making and has a rather nihilistic tone to it. Superb piece of work.
Yeah, and I need to say I don't worship Russian cinematography mostly, but there are some exceptions:)

[ScarletLion]

'Pariah' (2011)
Directed by Dee Rees

https://i.imgur.com/92ESbx0.png

This is a gem. It will no doubt draw comparisons with' Moonlight', but Pariah was made 6 years before Moonlight, and possibly deserves to be spoken about with the same enthusiasm, mainly sue to the excellent performances.

Adepero Oduye stars as Alike, a young black lesbian struggling to express herself. Her problem is that her parents are in denial / angry about her sexuality. We watch her juggle different personalities to fit her surroundings throughout the film and the pace of dialogue perfectly suits the tone and length of the movie (1hr26m). There are a few editing blips were shots meld together rather awkwardly, but this is a very neat film overall.

4

[ScarletLion]

'Long Shot'

https://i.imgur.com/S8g5PcX.jpg

40 minute documentary short from Netflix telling the almost unbelievable story of how LA resident Juan Catalan is to stand trial for murder and possibly the death penalty. What follows is a frantic account of how lawyers set about to gather evidence that would set him free and prove he wasn't at the scene of the crime but actually across town, watching the Dodgers lose to the Braves.

One thing I disliked was the fact that the trailer basically spelled out the whole documentary. But that said it's a gripping 40 minutes and a rather frightening one if you think too deeply about those "what ifs..."

4

[ScarletLion]

Great news! Cant wait to see this!! Have you seen Hounds of Love yet?

Jesus Christ. I watched it last night.

'Hounds of Love' (2016)

https://i.imgur.com/KjehOqc.gif

Massively difficult to watch due to the realistic nature of the disturbing events and the pretty fine performances all round.

I felt there were some rather fantastical elements to the story, but not really enough to put me off the film. It's definitely one of the more memorable films of this nature I've seen. Thanks for the recommend.

3.5

[the samoan lawyer]

Jesus Christ. I watched it last night.

'Hounds of Love' (2016)

https://i.imgur.com/KjehOqc.gif

Massively difficult to watch due to the realistic nature of the disturbing events and the pretty fine performances all round.

I felt there were some rather fantastical elements to the story, but not really enough to put me off the film. It's definitely one of the more memorable films of this nature I've seen. Thanks for the recommend.

rating_3_5


Glad you enjoyed. Aye, its a nasty little critter than leaves you plenty to think about. I know different circumstances but kinda reminded me of Snowtown (2011).

[ScarletLion]

Glad you enjoyed. Aye, its a nasty little critter than leaves you plenty to think about. I know different circumstances but kinda reminded me of Snowtown (2011).

Yes, bits of Snowtown, Animal Kingdom, Eden etc. Really gets under your skin like those films. There's something so believable and really sinister about the way these urban Aussie atmosphere's are portrayed on film. They really capture the terror and bleakness very well. Although Eden isn't Australian.

Have you seen 'Out of the Blue'? New Zealand film based on a true story.

[Dani8]

Glad you enjoyed. Aye, its a nasty little critter than leaves you plenty to think about. I know different circumstances but kinda reminded me of Snowtown (2011).

I hdnt heard of that but I certainly know Snowtown. Typical aussie real life crime genre - super gritty. Makes you need a few showers.

[the samoan lawyer]

Yes, bits of Snowtown, Animal Kingdom, Eden etc. Really gets under your skin like those films. There's something so believable and really sinister about the way these urban Aussie atmosphere's are portrayed on film. They really capture the terror and bleakness very well. Although Eden isn't Australian.

Have you seen 'Out of the Blue'? New Zealand film based on a true story.


I haven't seen either Eden nor Out of The Blue although both are on my watch list. I'll give them both a bump though.

[the samoan lawyer]

I hdnt heard of that but I certainly know Snowtown. Typical aussie real life crime genre - super gritty. Makes you need a few showers.


You should give it a go Dani. Cant beat a bit of grittiness!

[ScarletLion]

'Band Aid' (2017)

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BZjcwNTU3MzEtMWNhNi00Nzk0LWIyZWEtNmIzNDBlZDUzZDMxXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTkxNjUyNQ@@._V1_UX477_CR0,0,477 ,268_AL_.jpg

The premise of the film isn't massively attractive.....couple's relationship falling apart. They seek therapy. Doesn't work. So they form a band and write songs about their arguments in a bid to free them of the burdens that they carry. It is well constructed though as there's a genuine emotional pulse to it and the two leads are more than competent in their roles (save for a couple of the open-mic scenes). There are also 2 or 3 very funny bits of dialogue.

Worth a watch but won't tear up any trees.

3

[ScarletLion]

My Halloween Horror special:

'Inside' (2007)

https://i.imgur.com/o2Uk8Ms.gif

After seeing it mentioned on this forum I thought I'd give it a go. It's a straight up gore fest. The second half of the film is just gore with some gore packed in between the gore. I liked the overall "twist" if you could call it that, and the tone, creepiness and lighting is very well done. It's just the unrelenting violence that sticks in your craw. I guess that was what the director was trying to do. But for horror revenge flicks to really work I prefer gaps in between the horror to build plot / arcs etc. 'I saw the Devil' is an example of a film where this is done expertly.

Given I'm not a huge fan of the slasher splatter home invasion revenge horror genre I was probably never going to rate it too highly.

2.5

[Chypmunk]

Same rating I gave Inside and I love the horror genre, but as you say take away the gore and there really isn't much else there.

[Velvet]

37296

[the samoan lawyer]

My Halloween Horror special:

'Inside' (2007)

https://i.imgur.com/o2Uk8Ms.gif

After seeing it mentioned on this forum I thought I'd give it a go. It's a straight up gore fest. The second half of the film is just gore with some gore packed in between the gore. I liked the overall "twist" if you could call it that, and the tone, creepiness and lighting is very well done. It's just the unrelenting violence that sticks in your craw. I guess that was what the director was trying to do. But for horror revenge flicks to really work I prefer gaps in between the horror to build plot / arcs etc. 'I saw the Devil' is an example of a film where this is done expertly.

Given I'm not a huge fan of the slasher splatter home invasion revenge horror genre I was probably never going to rate it too highly.

rating_2_5


Shame you didn't like it more. I'm a fan of gore and Home Invasion would be one of my favourite sub genres so I was always going to love this. Can easily see your gripes though.

[ScarletLion]

'Wind River' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/BJ0HDrD.gif

I was going to describe this as "Sicario in the snow" until I realised that would be an obvious description as director Taylor Sheridan wrote Sicario. The script is really smart and perfectly paced. Jeremy Renner is probably the best I've seen him and the photography is absolutely stunning.

Sheridan has crafted a really neat thriller and seems adept at using tense standoffs, grizzly crimes and the surroundings to help piece it all together. Very enjoyable.

4

[ScarletLion]

'Good Time' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/94zJzIh.gif

Had no idea what this was about. Finished the movie wanting to talk to people about it - always a good sign. The Safdie brothers have created a grimy, greasy dirtball of a movie that gets under your skin for the most part, then has a brilliant way of paying off towards the end.

Benny Safdie even stars as the less able brother "Nick", while Robert Pattinson shows again (after his amazing performance in 'The Rover') that he is a very, very able actor. The two play brothers down on their luck and Connie (Pattinson) has a decision to make about his brother's therapy. What follows is a hapless 24 hours of misfortune for Connie that gives us a look at the sleazier side of New York. The pictures evoke memories of Mean Streets but with a touch of Gaspar Noe. Notable mentions for a tidy cameo by Jennifer Jason Leigh and the jabbing soundtrack by 0PN.

The pace is tremendous.It's a thrill ride from start to finish with some very clever subplots, analogies and reveals.

8.5/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'Good Time' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/94zJzIh.gif

Had no idea what this was about. Finished the movie wanting to talk to people about it - always a good sign. The Safdie brothers have created a grimy, greasy dirtball of a movie that gets under your skin for the most part, then has a brilliant way of paying off towards the end.

Benny Safdie even stars as the less able brother "Nick", while Robert Pattinson shows again (after his amazing performance in 'The Rover') that he is a very, very able actor. The two play brothers down on their luck and Connie (Pattinson) has a decision to make about his brother's therapy. What follows is a hapless 24 hours of misfortune for Connie that gives us a look at the sleazier side of New York. The pictures evoke memories of Mean Streets but with a touch of Gaspar Noe. Notable mentions for a tidy cameo by Jennifer Jason Leigh and the jabbing soundtrack by 0PN.

The pace is tremendous.It's a thrill ride from start to finish with some very clever subplots, analogies and reveals.

8.5/10


Been looking forward to this for a while so its good news you liked it. Also, I really must get round to seeing The Rover.

[ScarletLion]

Been looking forward to this for a while so its good news you liked it. Also, I really must get round to seeing The Rover.

2 good films. I have a crazy theory about 'Good Time'. So give us a mention when you have watched it.

[the samoan lawyer]

2 good films. I have a crazy theory about 'Good Time'. So give us a mention when you have watched it.


Will do!

[cricket]

Wind River looks great! I added it to my watchlist where Good Time already resides.

I'm with SL on Inside:)

[ScarletLion]

I'm with SL on Inside:)

Ha. :up: It's just not my bag unfortunately

[ScarletLion]

'Three Colours : Blue' (1993)

https://i.imgur.com/NIh3ptF.gif

Masterful direction from one of the masters. I'm beginning to see why Kieslowski is so well thought of. The lighting, editing and camera work is quite something. And Juliette Binoche's performance in this movie, playing a grieving woman named Julie who's suffered heartbreakign tradgedy, is nothing short of incredible.

There was a scene where she dives into a swimming pool but disapears under the water for what seemed like ages. I could feel msyelf holding my breath. Will she ever come up? Is this signifying a deep mental state from which she might not recover? Then suddenly she appears right infront of the camera as it ceases panning around (as if looking for Julie). She's literally just about keeping her head above water.

The fade to black editing which seems to convey her difficulty in making any sort of decisions due to her nihilistic outlook on life since the tragedy is mesmerising. And the incorporation of the music composition into the film was just perfect.

The movie itself doesn't have a whole load of intense plot to get your teeth into. But instead, the visuals just make you constantly analyse Julie's state of mind, her unwillingness to adapt to a new life and her ultimate battle to stay afloat. There were a couple of subplots that I didn't quite grab, perhaps a little too challenging for me, namely the "mistress" and the unification of Europe as a theme. I'm not sure what angle Kieslowski was coming from on these, perhaps they will become clearer with repeat viewings. But overall, a beautiful film.

Can't wait to see the next 2 installments.

4

[Chypmunk]

Same rating I gave Blue, be interesting to see how both Red and White fare in your eyes.

[ScarletLion]

Same rating I gave Blue, be interesting to see how both Red and White fare in your eyes.

I aim to watch them both within the next couple of weeks, so I'll give them a mini review on here. I don't really know anything about the Trilogy really so it's quite nice coming into them totally blind.

[Chypmunk]

I aim to watch them both within the next couple of weeks, so I'll give them a mini review on here. I don't really know anything about the Trilogy really so it's quite nice coming into them totally blind.
I only watched them recently for the first time myself, very glad I decided to finally get a hold of copies. Looking forward to your thoughts on the remaining two :up:

I always try to go in as blind as possible to a viewing, sometimes it's less possible because of unavoidable 'chatter' and preconceptions still sometimes exist anyway (because of who's involved or something is part of a series) but I much prefer to try and know as little about something as I can.

[the samoan lawyer]

Three Colours Trilogy is indeed a masterpiece. In order I have them, Blue, Red then White but really not much between them. Enjoy.

[ScarletLion]

'Brigsby Bear' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/RMDoHf3.gif

Quaint, heartwarming, touching but ultimately a little bit of a let down, and slightly derivative of such films as 'Swiss Army Man'.

I liked the concept but it was just a touch too forced.

2.5

[ScarletLion]

'Show me Love' (F*****g Amal) (1998)

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fr_3Gy3gEEQ/hqdefault.jpg

Lukas Moodyson's drama about sexual awakening and young lust is a real giver. So many realistic moments that just resonate with both being a misunderstood teenager but also very mature themes that haven't dated at all since it's release almost 20 years ago.Really recommended.

4


'No Man's Land' (2001)

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q5QFz-G51eg/hqdefault.jpg

A satirical look at the absurdity of war. Fantastic script. Great acting by the two leads and a strong message sent out that during war there rarely any winners, blame is sought at every turn and everyone is always out to gain something, even those who try to keep peace. The final shot alone is worth seeing.

3.5

[Zotis]

Show Me Love is a favorite of mine. Have you seen Lilya 4-ever, also by Moodysson?

[ScarletLion]

Show Me Love is a favorite of mine. Have you seen Lilya 4-ever, also by Moodysson?

Yes, the only reason I watched Show me Love was because I enjoyed Lilya-4ever so much. It really got to me. Both are very very good. I wasn't fussed on 'Mammoth' that much though.

I have 'Together' and 'We are the best' to watch soon. Really looking forward to them. He's a director that seems to have lost none of his integrity and creative self since his early days.

[Ms. M]

'No Man's Land' (2001)


A satirical look at the absurdity of war. Fantastic script. Great acting by the two leads and a strong message sent out that during war there rarely any winners, blame is sought at every turn and everyone is always out to gain something, even those who try to keep peace. The final shot alone is worth seeing.

rating_3_5

I remember when I watched this movie for the first time. I was astonished from the first scene in the fog to the last in the trenches. Serious topic given in light form.
My rating 4.5. Deserve for the oscar definitively:)

[Zotis]

Show Me Love is a favorite of mine. Have you seen Lilya 4-ever, also by Moodysson?

Yes, the only reason I watched Show me Love was because I enjoyed Lilya-4ever so much. It really got to me. Both are very very good. I wasn't fussed on 'Mammoth' that much though.

I have 'Together' and 'We are the best' to watch soon. Really looking forward to them. He's a director that seems to have lost none of his integrity and creative self since his early days.
We Are the Best doesn't even feel like one of his films. It's pretty tame by comparison, I felt. Together is very realistic.

I actually have Lilya 4-ever, Show Me Love, and Mammoth on dvd. Lilya 4-ever is actually my favorite movie ever. No other film changed the way I understand cinema more.

[the samoan lawyer]

Show Me Love and No Mans Land look great so adding both to my watch list.

[ScarletLion]

I remember when I watched this movie for the first time. I was astonished from the first scene in the fog to the last in the trenches. Serious topic given in light form.
My rating 4.5. Deserve for the oscar definitively:)

Yes, it's rather topical! It's easy to get completely hooked on these 2 or 3 characters and you simply have to find out what will happen to them.

despite the inevitable doom surrounding the whole situation.

[Zotis]

Glad you liked Good Time. That movie blew me away. I'll have to check out, The Rover.

[ScarletLion]

Glad you liked Good Time. That movie blew me away. I'll have to check out, The Rover.

Let me know what you think of The Rover. There is one scene in particular that is just heartwrenchingly brilliant acting from Pattinson.

[Ms. M]

Yes, it's rather topical! It's easy to get completely hooked on these 2 or 3 characters and you simply have to find out what will happen to them.

Exactly. I supose that's why the last scene is so acquring.

[ScarletLion]

'The Red Turtle' (2016)

http://pa1.narvii.com/6527/0da8d446f49678cefc26031f238432aefb9e84ce_00.gif

This came highly recommended, but it just didn't do it for me. I love some of studio Ghibli's output but The Red Turtle was just a leap too far into the fantasy world. After the first act you're left with the feeling that literally anything can happen. Which is really the sort of movie I usually have trouble getting invested in. It's more or less a cautionary tale of hunmans and their interaction with nature / the cycle of life. Perhaps it would have worked better as a 30 minute short. Interesting for certain, and very beautiful to look at. But not one I'd shout about from the rooftops about.

[ScarletLion]

'Three Colours : White' (1994)

https://i.imgur.com/98KE3rT.gif

Kieslowski's second in the Three Colours trilogy is far more "fantastical" than the first. The theme of white, (which relates to the equal treatment of others in French flag terms) is constant throughout the film. Scenes fade to white, wedding dresses, snow, cigarettes, curtains, white sculptures and doves all feature. Most of which are undoubtedly purposefully framed to symbolise the theme and make us think exactly what the film is trying to tell us. There are also comedic elements in this movie which I don't recall were used in "Blue". So immediately, the tonal shift from the first film is evident.

The mention of the Polish economy made me wonder whether there was an underlying theme of how / if Europe treats its constituents fairly, with marriage representing the European Union, but that may be me over-analyzing it.

https://i.imgur.com/UheoEoN.gif

What struck me was the way Kieslowski uses sounds as well as images - most notably the sound of the doves taking flight - even when they are not on screen, presumably to keep us thinking about the theme of fairness all the time. It's easy enough to think about the film as a type of revenge film, but I think it goes a level above that and makes us think what lengths we would go to in order to restore peace / balance / equality.

The performances were fine, although I find myself constantly comparing any turn in this trilogy to Juliette Binoche in Blue as it was such a good performance. Binoche also has a cameo in "White" - which makes you wonder if this is a "single trilogy universe"?

Overall I enjoyed "white" but not as much as "Blue". On to red next.....


7.5/10

3.5

[Chypmunk]

Glad you enjoyed 'White', I did too but not as much as either 'Red' or 'Blue'. Look forward to seeing your thunks on 'Red' when you've watched it....

[Camo]

Love Show Me Love. White was pretty good but i didn't like it anywhere near as much as Blue or especially Red.

[ScarletLion]

'Mommy Dead and Dearest' (2017)

https://i2.wp.com/blog.tdstelecom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/movie-poster-mommy-dead2.jpg

Interesting if disturbing 80 minute documentary about an extremely disfunctional mother - daughter relationship that ends in tragedy and deceit. Well worth checking out but.

7/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'Mommy Dead and Dearest' (2017)

https://i2.wp.com/blog.tdstelecom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/movie-poster-mommy-dead2.jpg

Interesting if disturbing 80 minute documentary about an extremely disfunctional mother - daughter relationship that ends in tragedy and deceit. Well worth checking out but.

7/10


Sounds interesting. I'll check that out.


Also interested to hear your thoughts on Color Red.

[Zotis]

Red is the only one of the trilogy I've seen. It was beautiful. I really need to watch the other two colors.

[the samoan lawyer]

Red is the only one of the trilogy I've seen. It was beautiful. I really need to watch the other two colors.


Red is my favourite of the three but you really should watch them all Zotis.

[ScarletLion]

'Time' (2006) [Shi Gan]

https://i.imgur.com/FSJqE5T.gif

Ki-Duk Kim is rapidly becoming one of my favourite directors.This is only my 4th film by Kim but all are completely engrossing. 'Time' delves into the insecurity of relationships and the fate of modern identities; and is essentially a drama but borders on sci-fi at times. It's a very intelligent look at how modern youngsters are expecting their relationships to be just like everything else in their lives - instant, perfect and "switchoffable". But life isn't like that. The film is quite jovial and outlandish in tone despite some unhappy undercurrents, with the ending giving us a rather unexpected 'twist' of sorts. But it ties together this theme of time / perception / disposition being fixed and something that is not versatile.

The surreal quality that Kim uses makes us drift into this almost fable like movie. Although it's a relatively simple concept, it's hard to imagine any other industry would have produced this as well as the Asian film industry. Pedro Almodovar is the only other modern film-maker that I think could churn out something as well put together.

It was difficult to locate a copy of this movie, and it has never been given a blue ray release, which is a shame as some of the visuals are beautiful; especially those scenes in the sculpture park. But I'd recommend this film to anybody who likes Asian cinema and anybody who likes to be made to think a little.

8.5/10

4

[ScarletLion]

'Mother' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/J9NJBQC.gif

Aronofsky is one of the finest film-makers around. One of those directors that I'd make a point of seeing whatever he puts out. A film like 'Mother!' is bound to divide audiences, especially with a third act so off the wall as this. But Aronofsky deserves credit for convincing major studios to make films that are not your typical straight up drama / horror / thrillers.

What is especially great about the movie is that there is a huge amount of ambiguity into the films message, yet it remains extremely intriguing. That's the real accomplishment of a piece of work like this. There are biblical themes, nods to the difficulties of relationships / parenthood and messages / fore-warnings of human behaviour destroying the planet. Which one the audience chooses to go with is completely up to them

I'm not sure 'Mother!' is quite as good as Requiem or The Fountain, but then those two are absolutely superb films, so Aronofsky will have to go some way to beating his previous best. But I hope he continues to try.

8/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'Mother' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/J9NJBQC.gif

Aronofsky is one of the finest film-makers around. One of those directors that I'd make a point of seeing whatever he puts out. A film like 'Mother!' is bound to divide audiences, especially with a third act so off the wall as this. But Aronofsky deserves credit for convincing major studios to make films that are not your typical straight up drama / horror / thrillers.

What is especially great about the movie is that there is a huge amount of ambiguity into the films message, yet it remains extremely intriguing. That's the real accomplishment of a piece of work like this. There are biblical themes, nods to the difficulties of relationships / parenthood and messages / fore-warnings of human behaviour destroying the planet. Which one the audience chooses to go with is completely up to them

I'm not sure 'Mother!' is quite as good as Requiem or The Fountain, but then those two are absolutely superb films, so Aronofsky will have to go some way to beating his previous best. But I hope he continues to try.

8/10


This is the film I'm looking forward to seeing the most.

[ScarletLion]

This is the film I'm looking forward to seeing the most.

I don't think you'll be disappointed.

[Ms. M]

'Three Colours : White' (1994)



7.5/10

rating_3_5
After reading Your review and other MoFOs opinion about White few days ago I started wondering, why it is my fav part. And I figured out it's probably because this is the most Polish part. Red and Blue are more French or even cosmopolitan. The picture You attached here, the picture of Barber Shop, I remember similar views from my childhood. Poland really used to look like that:)

[ScarletLion]

After reading Your review and other MoFOs opinion about White few days ago I started wondering, why it is my fav part. And I figured out it's probably because this is the most Polish part. Red and Blue are more French or even cosmopolitan. The picture You attached here, the picture of Barber Shop, I remember similar views from my childhood. Poland really used to look like that:)

Thanks, yes it's noticeable how much emphasis KK puts on the view of Poland, it's society and economy being very different to France and the rest of Europe.

[Ms. M]

Thanks, yes it's noticeable how much emphasis KK puts on the view of Poland, it's society and economy being very different to France and the rest of Europe.
You're right. The view is very folksy and I like it👍

[ScarletLion]

'Kiss me deadly' (1955)

https://i.imgur.com/eiikl6h.gif

A true noir classic. It has pretty much every noir theme nailed on. Sleaziy gangsters, an anti hero of sorts, femme fatales, brilliant moody lighting, mystery at every corner, a web of deceit etc It also comes with a sharp, witty script.

I particularly loved the way it was shot - cameras mounted on the trunk of the cars, street walls lit up to make silhouettes, close ups on faces / shoes / cigarettes. Hard to believe it was made in the fifties when it looks this stunning. The last 20 minutes or so took me completely by surprise. The clues were probably there if I looked hard enough (Hammer being interrogated by unnamed government officials, and the love sonnet describing unimaginable darkness and corruption etc)

Great film that has clearly inspired many filmmakers throughout the years.

[Plus, I also now get the reference to the awesome film GIF site: "If we don't, remember me"]

8.5/10

[Chypmunk]

Glad you enjoyed Kiss Me Deadly - it really is a beautiful noir!

[ScarletLion]

'Most Beautiful Island' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/dUwZGKT.gif

Very impressive debut from Spanish writer / director Ana Asensio who also stars. It's a tense psycyhological thriller with some surreal elements. Right up my street. One of the films of the year.

4

[ScarletLion]

'The Hero' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/Y6Z6juM.gif

This isn't a flawless film. There are mis-steps and the script was foggy in places but Sam Elliott is absolutely amazing as the lead - a washed up actor with baggage who needs to reconcile a few things sharpish. Totally recommend this film if you are in need of a lesser known indie flick .

7.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'The Killing of a sacred Deer' (2017)


https://i.imgur.com/gzowMaC.gif

Tempted to call this a masterpiece. It's absurd,brilliant, funny, sad, completely intriguing and very well written. Lanthimos is a complete maverick. 9/10

I need to update my best movies of 2017 list right away

[ScarletLion]

'Buster's Mal Heart' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/vakzDrZ.gif

Massively ambitious film from director Sarah Adina Smith.She desribes it as " a meditation on individual responsibility in a mechanistic universe". It's a modern take on Jonah and the Whale, resembles The Shining, Twin Peaks and Eraserhead all rolled into one, and is a complete mindbender but very, very interesting. Rami Malek is superb as always and I'll be thinking about it for days.

7.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'Lady bird' (2017)

https://i1.wp.com/splashreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/LB__n.00000000-copy.jpg?resize=942%2C530

A pretty exceptional first time effort at writing and directing by Greta Gerwig. The script is great, really great. And very funny. Saoirse Ronan gives quite a vibrant performance as the lead character who gives us all the typical teenage angst. A lot of critics have said the movie is about growing pains and coming of age, but after thinking about it for some time I think it's also about parenthood. This is a big plus point for the movie as it captures the feelings of Christine's parents (played brillianty by Tracey Letts and Laurie Metcalf). I see alot of similarities to Kenneth Lonnergan's 'Margaret' in this film, which is no bad thing. Gerwig has clearly surrounded herself with talented people and looks to have a pretty big career ahead of her.

7.5/10

'Three billboards outside of Ebbing, Missouri' (2017)

https://d2e111jq13me73.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/styles/review_gallery_carousel_slide_thumbnail/public/screenshots/csm-movie/threebillboards-still1.jpg?itok=yDvW9B64

Frances McDormand is one of the greatest actresses of all time. She's great in this. This film is great. It's very, very funny and feels a bit like a Cohen bros film, which is no surprise as McDormand is married to one of them. The only problem I had with it was the sudden change in personalities of a couple of characters in the third act and the fact that it seems a little too heavily oscar baited at times in terms of script / tone. But that said it easily makes the top x movies of the year list.

8/10

[ScarletLion]

'The Florida Project' (2017)

https://img-www.tf-cdn.com/movie/2/the-florida-project-2017.jpeg?_v=20171117231338&w=1080&h=360&dpr=1&auto=compress&fm=pjpg&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Ctop

Sean Baker's latest film is as brilliant as it is heartbreaking. It centres around a single mother and her daughter struggling to make ends meet in the shadow of Disneyland, Florida. Willem Dafoe as the motel manager is great, as he always is, but Bria Vinaite and Brooklyn Prince as mother / daughter steal the show. The realism and tragedy of of it all reminded me of American Honey and I, Daniel Blake. And I loved the ending. 9/10

[Camo]

Glad you like it, it's my favourite of 2017 so far. I did think of it differently to you though; it was more like a fantasy film than realistic to me at least up until: what's her name stops her kid from seeing Moonee, that was like bursting a bubble with one of the residents finally saying this is not the way i want me and my kid to live. I mean the resort is really run down and obviously poor but it's all super colourful and gorgeous, like if The Land of Oz had a ghetto was how i described it. The fantasy feeling really suited the adventurous escapism i got from the kids.

Anyway, yeah great film.

Here's what i posted about it as i think it explains how i saw it better as i do get what you mean (i think) and don't totally disagree - https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1847881#post1847881

[ScarletLion]

Glad you like it, it's my favourite of 2017 so far. I did think of it differently to you though; it was more like a fantasy film than realistic to me at least up until: what's her name stops her kid from seeing Moonee, that was like bursting a bubble with one of the residents finally saying this is not the way i want me and my kid to live. I mean the resort is really run down and obviously poor but it's all super colourful and gorgeous, like if The Land of Oz had a ghetto was how i described it. The fantasy feeling really suited the adventurous escapism i got from the kids.

Anyway, yeah great film.

Here's what i posted about it as i think it explains how i saw it better as i do get what you mean (i think) and don't totally disagree - https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1847881#post1847881

Yup I totally agree, there are definite fantasy elements to it. But those fantasies are real, because they are Moonees, it's what she sees. Does that make sense? The final scene shows that, because the kids are too young to know any different, they live most of their lives in an almost involuntary fantasy world. The horrible irony of being in the shadow of the most famous man made fantasy location on planet earth.

Your review is great by the way, I enjoyed reading that. This is yet another film where non-actors or unknowns outperform seasoned veterans in other movies.

[Okay]

The Killing of a Sacred Deer is so far, my favourite film of 2017, so I'm glad you got the same enjoyment out of it as I did. I still have yet to see "Three Billboards..." or "The Florida Project", though I'm excited to check out both.

[ScarletLion]

'Super Dark Times' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/6lK6JMk.gif

Kevin Phillips' coming of age / thriller / teen slasher / horror mashup is engaging and intriguing but falls flat in the last act. The performances are fine, the film looks great, but I'm confused about the overall message / theme. I initially thought it was a metaphor for teenagers vying for love / attention / popularity. But I think it's more a cautionary tale of how youngsters can easily go off the rails at the flick of a switch. It looked nice but there were some really off kilter moments and scenes. Didn't really click with me.
2.5

[the samoan lawyer]

'Super Dark Times' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/6lK6JMk.gif

Kevin Phillips' coming of age / thriller / teen slasher / horror mashup is engaging and intriguing but falls flat in the last act. The performances are fine, the film looks great, but I'm confused about the overall message / theme. I initially thought it was a metaphor for teenagers vying for love / attention / popularity. But I think it's more a cautionary tale of how youngsters can easily go off the rails at the flick of a switch. It looked nice but there were some really off kilter moments and scenes. Didn't really click with me.
rating_2_5


Something has been stopping me from watching this already. Reading this probably wont make me go much faster.

[ScarletLion]

'Last Flag Flying' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/tQ6xfgh.gif



Richard Linklater is one of my favourite directors. I never stop being amazed at how someone can be completely self taught at everything he does, and completely good at it.

Last Flag Flying is another one that is dominated by the script. It reminded me of a 60s / 70s road movie in tone. There are some moments that feel a bit forced and "cheesy" but all in all it's an enjoyable one. Bryan Cranston probably steals the show as he has the most comical moments, but Steve Carrell is also pretty good in his role as a detatched and unlucky guy. Can't say much more without spoilers. Essentially it's a war movie but without any war scenes, instead looking at the psychology of after effects and the issues that can arise on home soil, let alone in a war zone.

I will admit to shedding a tear in the final moments. Damn you Linklater.

3.5

[ScarletLion]

'The Dirties' (2013)

https://mindreels.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/dirties1.jpg?w=1000&h=1000

This was in my collection but I had no idea how it got there. Decided to watch it on a whim and glad I did. It's a comedy high school found footage drama. It evokes memories of chronicle, elephant and polytechnique. The budget was less than $10,000 and Matt Johnson wrote, stars and Directed it.

It really is pretty original despite the 'found footage' tag, and as well as being darkly comedic, has a completely sinister undertone. Some of the footage is clearly ad lib and features real subjects not actors, which makes the tone feel all the more 'hyper-real'. It's a really interesting piece of work and I'll now be checking out Matt Johnson's other film and the comedy series he's done.

Plus, a word on the end credits homage - suited the film perfectly. [link may contain spoilers]

4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjflkE74Pdk

[Okay]

I absolutely adored "The Dirties", I found myself thoroughly entertained by the two main characters and their shenanigans, their chemistry together was simply off the roof. I also loved how they kept acknowledging the crew and the technical aspects of their own film, while still being in the movie's universe, this level of insanity is rare to find, even though it can be a source of some great comedy.

[ScarletLion]

I absolutely adored "The Dirties", I found myself thoroughly entertained by the two main characters and their shenanigans, their chemistry together was simply off the roof. I also loved how they kept acknowledging the crew and the technical aspects of their own film, while still being in the movie's universe, this level of insanity is rare to find, even though it can be a source of some great comedy.

It really is quite unique in that respect. Although it's a cheaply made movie, it is a very well constructed one and edited very well. The writer/director was in his mid 20s when it was made. That blows my mind.

[Okay]

I have yet to check out his tv-series "Nirvanna the Band the Show", but I thought his second feature film, "Operation Avalanche", was just as brilliant as his first. He is a unique film-maker indeed, and I wish he would get more recognition.

[ScarletLion]

I have yet to check out his tv-series "Nirvanna the Band the Show", but I thought his second feature film, "Operation Avalanche", was just as brilliant as his first. He is a unique film-maker indeed, and I wish he would get more recognition.

I'll be watching both those very soon, he seems like a very promising talent.

[the samoan lawyer]

The Dirties looks like something I'll love. The darker the better.

[ScarletLion]

The Dirties looks like something I'll love. The darker the better.

I think you'd dig it. Let me know what you think

[the samoan lawyer]

I think you'd dig it. Let me know what you think


Will do. Cheers.

[ScarletLion]

'Bad Day for the Cut' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/qCgHFKr.gif


Quite violent, tense, Northern Irish crime thriller. @TheSamoanLawyer put me on to this. I believe he's from that neck of the woods. It's gritty, extremely well shot and has some good performances. It's not particularly groundbreaking but does have some poignant moments:

"No-one seems to know the full story. That's the problem with this country".

^ That one stood out for me given the history, and eludes to the fact that certain things will never, ever be forgotten leading to an endless circle of tragedy.

The problem I have with it, is that there are a few 'less than plausible' moments also.


For example:

-The Polish 2 not getting the heck out of there
-The flash of light when Donal was inside the room at the end that triggerred Frankie to explore....what was that flasj? Did I miss something? He didn't kill Frankie's henchman so it can't have been his shotgun.
-Frankie not taking a pot shot at Donal right at the end through the car - when she had the chance. That proved fatal. And convenient.
-Donal going for a piss in the woods without his weapon that enabled the chase scene
-Eamon delivering important dialogue right before he croaks it




These are small, tiny details, and I am nitpicking. Because without them, there would be no movie. But they did stand out as a little distracting.

Overall, I'd give it a 6/10 - as as nice as it was to look at, it didn't quite pull me in enough to make my heart beat a little bit faster or make my emotions boil to the surface.

3

[the samoan lawyer]

'Bad Day for the Cut' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/qCgHFKr.gif


Quite violent, tense, Northern Irish crime thriller. @TheSamoanLawyer put me on to this. I believe he's from that neck of the woods. It's gritty, extremely well shot and has some good performances. It's not particularly groundbreaking but does have some poignant moments:

"No-one seems to know the full story. That's the problem with this country".

^ That one stood out for me given the history, and eludes to the fact that certain things will never, ever be forgotten leading to an endless circle of tragedy.

The problem I have with it, is that there are a few 'less than plausible' moments also.


For example:

-The Polish 2 not getting the heck out of there
-The flash of light when Donal was inside the room at the end that triggerred Frankie to explore....what was that flasj? Did I miss something? He didn't kill Frankie's henchman so it can't have been his shotgun.
-Frankie not taking a pot shot at Donal right at the end through the car - when she had the chance. That proved fatal. And convenient.
-Donal going for a piss in the woods without his weapon that enabled the chase scene
-Eamon delivering important dialogue right before he croaks it




These are small, tiny details, and I am nitpicking. Because without them, there would be no movie. But they did stand out as a little distracting.

Overall, I'd give it a 6/10 - as as nice as it was to look at, it didn't quite pull me in enough to make my heart beat a little bit faster or make my emotions boil to the surface.

rating_3


Glad you liked it. I watched it at the premiere months ago so I'll have to get a rewatch in asap. I really enjoyed it but I definitely was a tad bias.

[ScarletLion]

'Columbus' (2017)

This is a beautiful film. Director Kogonada has made several tribute videos, essays and shorts but this is his debut feature. And he nails it, with help of the stunning, meticulously framed cinematography by Elisha Christian.

https://i.imgur.com/Gv5hHgM.gif

Columbus, Indiana is the backdrop to the story that positions a daughter giving up her career to care for her mother, and a son who was neglected in favour of a career by his father. Symbolism, symmetry and architecture provide the metaphors for the messages and themes, and I took them mostly to mean that some of us strive to align symmetry to our lives but the reality is that we can all achieve balance - even when things are off kilter.

As an Asian film-maker, Kogonada has clearly been influenced by Kim Ki-Duk and Takeshi Kitano ('Time' and' Kikujiro' are similar in tone) and also the one point perspective techniques of Kubrick. The result here, is a phenomenally beautiful movie that trickles along nicely as we meet a male - female dynamic that share their troubles and end up trying to figure out how to move on to the next chapter of their lives. Haley Lu Richardson and John Cho are a great combo, and the former especially gives a pretty amazing turn well beyond her years.

https://i.imgur.com/lmmw4fv.gif

Think Asian cinema blended in with stunning photography, and perhaps a hint of Jim Jarmusch's 'Paterson' and it's about where this movie is. There's also a hint of the before / after trilogy in the dialogue.

Those who appreciate aesthetics will enjoy this movie. Those who prefer more of an adrenaline rush will want to avoid it.

4

[the samoan lawyer]

Nice review. Never heard of it before, sounds and looks great.

[ScarletLion]

REWATCH: 'Sicario' (2015)

Such a brutal, tense, brilliant movie. And yet it's not even close to being Villeneuve's best. There are a couple of flaws, most notably that big reveal towards the end where Alejandro is at the Mexico side of the border. I just feel they didn't nail it somehow. Emily Blunt's character just looked a little too confused.

https://i.imgur.com/635J9U5.gif

That said it is still one of the better thrillers of the last few years, helped by Taylor Sheridan's dialogue and the edgyness of the film's tone.

I cannot wait to see what Villeneuve does with 'Dune'. He has a ridiculously good resume already and has now done thrillers, sci-fi, politically motivated movies, high school shootings, Mindf**k moives. I guess a war movie might be up after Dune.

My Denis Villeneuve movies ranked:

1. Incendies
2. Arrival
3. Enemy
4. Polytechnique
5. Prisoners
6. Sicario
7. Blade Runner 2049
8. Maelstrom

I am yet to see 'August 32nd on Earth'

[Okay]

Villeneuve is a fantastic film-maker, and I do agree with the fact that "Sicario" is one of his worst films, which is nothing but a great compliment. I too love "Incendies" and "Enemy" the most, out of his impressive filmography.

[ScarletLion]

Villeneuve is a fantastic film-maker, and I do agree with the fact that "Sicario" is one of his worst films, which is nothing but a great compliment. I too love "Incendies" and "Enemy" the most, out of his impressive filmography.

I was impressed by Enemy and Prisoners when I first saw them but after watching Incendies I was completely blown away with his attention for detail and brutalness. He never shies away from being completely in your face, yet at the same time does violence and harshness with a certain degree of style and dignity. I haven't explained that very well but I hope you get what I mean. He doesn't go over the top in terms of graphic content but at the same time disturbs the viewer enough to make certain scenes unforgettable. 'Polytechnique' is perhaps the best example of this. It is done so well.

I get the same vibes from Jacques Audiard. Both great modern filmmakers and both at the top of my favourite Directors working today.

[Ms. M]

Arrival, Enemy and BR 2049 were great.
Sicario disappointed me. Wasn't instense, didn't keep in suspense, was even boring at some parts.

[ScarletLion]

Arrival, Enemy and BR 2049 were great.
Sicario disappointed me. Wasn't instense, didn't keep in suspense, was even boring at some parts.

Fair enough, did you watch Prisoners? And if so how did it compare to Sicario?

[Ms. M]

Fair enough, did you watch Prisoners? And if so how did it compare to Sicario?
No, I haven't seen Prisoners:( I'm curoius, If I would like it.

[HashtagBrownies]

'The Dirties' (2013)

https://mindreels.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/dirties1.jpg?w=1000&h=1000

It really is pretty original despite the 'found footage' tag, and as well as being darkly comedic, has a completely sinister undertone. Some of the footage is clearly ad lib and features real subjects not actors, which makes the tone feel all the more 'hyper-real'.

Sure it was comedic, but I felt it more and more intense and disturbing as it went on, until you're left absolutely shaken by the final shot.

[ScarletLion]

Sure it was comedic, but I felt it more and more intense and disturbing as it went on, until you're left absolutely shaken by the final shot.

A note on that ending:

Do you think the abrupt final shot was just there to tell us that's it -
that's how far Matt took it and he can never undo the things he's done. He's unrecogniseable from his former self - even by his best friend.

Or.....do you think the ending is more suggestive. By that I mean it abruptly ends because that is the end of Matt's story. He's perhaps taken out in a Soprano's type way. Gone.

?

[HashtagBrownies]

A note on that ending:

Do you think the abrupt final shot was just there to tell us that's it -
that's how far Matt took it and he can never undo the things he's done. He's unrecogniseable from his former self - even by his best friend.

I'd say it's definitely that one.

There's no way Matt would kill his friend

[ScarletLion]

'Donald Cried' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/MEINkwh.gif

Debut feature from Kristopher Avedisian, who also plays the title role. It's a cringe comedy drama about revisiting the past. It reminded me of Napoleon Dynamite with a sprinkling of Dead Man's Shoes and perhaps a theme or two from Trains, Planes and Automobiles.

There are some very funny moments, and some quite disturbing ones, but ultimately it fell a little flat in the last 20 minutes. Interesting but not tearing up any trees

6/10

[ScarletLion]

'Three Colors: Red' (1994)

https://i.imgur.com/Sib65cv.gif

The final installment of Kieslowski's master trilogy doesn't disappoint. We follow Valentine, a fashion model with a few bits of baggage. She sets a chain of events in motion as she tries to return a dog she ran over with her car....this being the 3rd value of 'fraternity' (togetherness) presumably.

The first 40 minutes of the film is somewhat puzzling as there seems to be a few unexplained events, characters and sub-plots blended with massive red symbolism. There's barely a scene in the film in which an inanimate red object is not thrust in the viewer's face. But what comes after is just mesmerizing. Kieslowski manages to rope you into a beautiful story, essentially about love but one that almost borders on the sc-fi genre at times, and climaxes in a wholly satisfying last scene that neatly and brilliantly ties in the whole trilogy. The message seems to be that love and belief will conquer all, and again as we see the 7 characters at the end, the theme of fraternity and togetherness is on show.

Just who the character of Joseph is, given he seems to be a powerful force that can orchestrate entire relationships, I guess is for the viewer to decide. There are strong hints of religion and fate. Recurring themes like broken glass, communication, windows will probably make more sense with repeat viewings.

I have trouble splitting 'Red' and 'Blue' in terms of ranking. They are both fantastic. 'White' is probably one for the Kieslowski purists. If I had to, I'd go:

1) Red
2) Blue
3) White

But that's probably because red is fresher in my mind. Juliette Binoche's performance in Blue is one of the greatest performances I think I've ever seen on screen.

Overall, it's probably not a stretch to claim that 'red' is one of the greatest European films ever made, and the 'Colors' trilogy is one of the greatest ever trilogies.

4.5

Next up in Kieslowski's filmography for me will be 'The Double Life of Veronique'

[Chypmunk]

Red - Blue - White for me too, really is a nice trilogy.

[Zotis]

What did you mean by, "borders on sci-fi genre at times?" Because for some strange reason I got the same vibe, except I can't pinpoint it.

[Camo]

You got the order correct :up: Red is far and away my favourite, like Blue a lot too though.

[ScarletLion]

What did you mean by, "borders on sci-fi genre at times?" Because for some strange reason I got the same vibe, except I can't pinpoint it.

It's Joseph. Meddling with radio communictions, being an almost another worldly being that can somehow manipulate situations to alter the course of others lives. It's not a sci-fi film but that element to it is certainly approaching sci-fi or a variant of it.

[Ms. M]

Next up in Kieslowski's filmography for me will be 'The Double Life of Veronique'

I've got the same feeling about "Double life..." same like about "Picnic at Hanging Rock" - I liked it when I was teenager, but now they don't work for me. Anyway I'm looking forward to hearing your opinion, despie I expect it t would be different than mine, coz I put in different order the trilogy movies:)

[ScarletLion]

'God's Own Country' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/ojgWorG.gif

Debut feature from Francis Lee. Stunningly shot, very well acted, and beautifully written. It borrows from others but walks it's own path too. A bored young farmer's son has his world turned upside down when help arrives during the lambing season. It might not sound edge of your seat stuff but I was so gripped throughout, the film felt like about 25 minutes long. The dramatic and romantic elements work well and it envokes a mix between a Ken Loach film and perhaps a famous Ang Lee film that graced out screens a round a decade ago.

I was trying to come up with a phrase to describe it other than 'a beautiful movie'. But I can't. It is just a 'beautiful movie'.

4

[MovieGal]

ScarletLion

https://78.media.tumblr.com/4b6f630a71ef09d20f430f7629ee60e2/tumblr_opox6s1ohW1tx6zqyo4_500.gif

[ScarletLion]

'Phantom Thread' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/xJKZ7hm.gif

An interesting tale of love, devotion, sacrifice and acceptance. It also seems to be about how important women are in society. Rather topical. Both leads are great (although Daniel Day Lewis sounded like an English Werner Hertzog for the first half an hour), Vicky Krieps especially. It was Lesley Manville as Cyril that stole the show for me though, she managed to perform in an almost robotic way, yet came across as very powerful, stoic and bordering on sociopathic.

The film itself is intriguing enough throughout, and there are pay offs. The final scene is absolutely terrific for instance. The script is savage at times with some brutal, comedic put downs. But it does seem like the award nominations are overkill for this movie. I find myself wondering how many nominations this film would have had if PTA and DDL hadn't been involved. DDL was the third best actor in this movie.

A note on the score by Jonny Greenwood - it's pretty astonishing, combining elements of jazz and piano that trundle along in almost every scene. Superb

7/10

[ScarletLion]

'What happened in Vegas?' (2017)

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMDkwMzllODAtMGE1OS00YzI0LWEyZDQtYzIzZTdiNzY4NzE4XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTMxODE3NzI@._V1_UX182_CR0,0,182 ,268_AL_.jpg

Good:
The film's cases and interviews make interesting and sometimes shocking viewing. I knew little of the 4 main cases that this film delves into but each one is disturbing in its own right.

It culminates in a rather explosive accusation with implications to the Mandelay Bay shooting, which the LVPD must be seething about. This film paints the Las Vegas police department in the worst light possible, make no mistake about it.

It is well put together, and the viewer does get the feeling that the main protagonists (i.e. film-makers) really do care about putting a stop to the increase in police brutality in the Las Vegas metropolitan area and in the USA in general.


Not so good:
The viewer has to take each at face value as we are not given any other side of the story. There are very few police interviews, perhaps understandably so when the cases were quite high profile and serious.

The Director Ramsey Denison explains why he made the film, and while this is integral to the whole experience, unfortunately his demeanour on camera isn't the best - so I feel he should have employed someone else to ask some of the interview questions. The result in some segments is a somewhat "made for TV" feel.

Overall:
I'd recommend it. The cases alone are interesting / frustrating enough to watch for those that enjoy exasperating documentaries on the american justice system. As for the implications and theories around the Sherrif's department - all I can say is, this film puts it's points forward very well.

7/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'What happened in Vegas?' (2017)

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMDkwMzllODAtMGE1OS00YzI0LWEyZDQtYzIzZTdiNzY4NzE4XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTMxODE3NzI@._V1_UX182_CR0,0,182 ,268_AL_.jpg

Good:
The film's cases and interviews make interesting and sometimes shocking viewing. I knew little of the 4 main cases that this film delves into but each one is disturbing in its own right.

It culminates in a rather explosive accusation with implications to the Mandelay Bay shooting, which the LVPD must be seething about. This film paints the Las Vegas police department in the worst light possible, make no mistake about it.

It is well put together, and the viewer does get the feeling that the main protagonists (i.e. film-makers) really do care about putting a stop to the increase in police brutality in the Las Vegas metropolitan area and in the USA in general.


Not so good:
The viewer has to take each at face value as we are not given any other side of the story. There are very few police interviews, perhaps understandably so when the cases were quite high profile and serious.

The Director Ramsey Denison explains why he made the film, and while this is integral to the whole experience, unfortunately his demeanour on camera isn't the best - so I feel he should have employed someone else to ask some of the interview questions. The result in some segments is a somewhat "made for TV" feel.

Overall:
I'd recommend it. The cases alone are interesting / frustrating enough to watch for those that enjoy exasperating documentaries on the american justice system. As for the implications and theories around the Sherrif's department - all I can say is, this film puts it's points forward very well.

7/10


Sounds good, I'll get round to that soon hopefully. Cheers.

[ScarletLion]

'The Levelling' (2016)

https://i.imgur.com/FSNJzZ2.gif

This is a dour, miserable drama about the harshness and brutality of farming in Britain. Right up my street. It feels as though it may be heavily inspired by early Lynne Ramsey and Ken Loach.

Clover is an animal medicine student called back to her father's farm after her brother tragically takes his own life. Throughout the film we begin to understand why the father is why he is, why the farm is why it is and why the brother took his own life. There's not many magic moments in this film but there are some stunning shots of the English countryside and some beautiful night shots of the animals (courtesy of cinematographer Nanu Segal). The lead role is played well by Ellie Kendrick, although I thought the father, played by (David Troughton) overacted slightly in a few scenes. All in all it's a watchable drama for those who like bleak British tales with a glimmer of hope at the end.

6.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'Loveless' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/05xwkzc.gif


Andrey Zvyagintsev is quickly becoming a master of cinema. 2014's Leviathan was lauded for it's honesty and harshness, and this is probably just as good.

It's is a brutal, no holds barred attack on contemporary Russian society which has 2 phenomenal lead performances. Maryana Spivak, as Zhenya, in particular is so compelling as the frustrated, mixed up mother in the process of a messy divorce that at times it felt like the viewer is naughtily peeping in on someone's private miseries like some kind of cinematic voyeur. How these performances are not more recognised in awards is baffling to me.

It centres on neglect and selfishness but has a broader message that extends to one of lack of humanity towards each other. Having just finished Kieslowski's Colours trilogy I see huge similarities here. No bad thing.

The very final shot is orchestrated in a metaphor. Zhenya is quite deliberately dressed in a tracksuit with her nation emblazened on the front. For me it reads as 'Russia is running to stand still' with the current regime in power, with possible connotations to the recent scandal in Russian athletics.

https://i.imgur.com/Qy6JOyF.gif




A must see.

8.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'Call me By Your Name' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/rqoCPaD.gif

Luca Guadagnino's candid story of same sex love is beautiful but twee.

Firstly, Timothee Chalamet is pretty great. I can't remember the last time I saw such a convincing portrayal of lust / love on screen. The feeling of utter besottedness really comes across well and he's clearly got a huge future. There are times when the viewer is completely transported into Elio's headspace. One scene in the town square sticks in the viewer's mind - Elio's thought process is dissected and the pictures on screen are what he is seeing. His confusion, his repressed sexual feelings, his naivety all transfer on to us. It was just a pleasure to watch.

That said, there are flaws. The family, with their idyllic Mediterranean lifestyle, are characatures and a touch cliched. At times it felt like I was watching an advertisement for Italian wine or olive oil.

The final reveal was also very predictable, so much so that I found myself longing for it to happen. It felt as if it was a tad preachy and there is one particular monologue from one of the characters that was overlong and threw the message in the viewer's face. The entire Winter segment felt a little bit of an 'add-on' after the Summer part was so delicately and sensually delivered.

Finally Sufjan Stevens' score is really quite something - a deliberate 80s vibe with some really great tunes. There is one lyric in particular which reads "Blessed be the mystery of love" - Stevens perfectly captures the film in that lyric.

Overall though, a lovely experience.

Call me by your name - 7.5 / 10
Timothee Chalamet - 9 / 10

https://i.imgur.com/ZScbblr.gif

[ScarletLion]

'The Square' (2017)

Ruben Ostlund is amazing at asking the audience what they would do in a situation. He presents moral dilemmas. The Square is an extraordinary piece of 'art cinema', in more ways than one. It's a metaphor for the decay of society, the inequality, the mistrust and the fear. This film is unsettling, uncomfortable, awkward and bizarre. It makes us think that perhaps society is becoming the way it is because of our vanity and social needyness. Some of the scenes in this film are as excruciating as they are jaw dropping. It also looks gorgeous and is meticulously framed. It is right up there with the best films of 2017.

8.5/10

https://i.imgur.com/0JedUbv.gif

[Okay]

Loved "Loveless" as well. Zvyagintsev's constant blunt portrayal of the harshness of mankind is so interesting to me. Not to mention, every film he has made so far has been aesthetically phenomenal.

I'll be seeing "Call Me by Your Name" and "The Square" pretty soon for my 2017 watchlist. I don't think I won't have good things to say about 'em, that's for sure.

[ScarletLion]

Loved "Loveless" as well. Zvyagintsev's constant blunt portrayal of the harshness of mankind is so interesting to me. Not to mention, every film he has made so far has been aesthetically phenomenal.

I'll be seeing "Call Me by Your Name" and "The Square" pretty soon for my 2017 watchlist. I don't think I won't have good things to say about 'em, that's for sure.

Once you're done, be sure to tell me what you thought of them. I think you will like 'The Square.'

[ScarletLion]

'Fish Tank' (2009)

https://i.imgur.com/W0874SV.gif

Finally got round to it. Absolutely loved it. I spent most of the time wanting to just give Mia a hug. She's so neglected and trodden on, and her mother doesn't realise that all she needs is a gentle tug in the right direction. Some love, someone to talk to, instead of a social worker or a boarding school. She has compassion (we see her care for the horse) and she has ambition (her love of music and dance gives the audience encouragement). Connor and Billy provide her with some sanity as they take her for who she is rather than what she's done. And the film's pay off at the end is huuuuuge.

The scene towards the end where Mia, Tyler and their mum share a little dance, made me weep like a toddler. Andrea Arnold is a genius.


https://i.imgur.com/X2ESjB3.gif

8/10

[ScarletLion]

'Hiroshima Mon Amour' (1959)

https://i.imgur.com/xbQJrVq.gif

This film is like a poem about love, tragedy and peace. It seems to be about coping with unspeakable sadness and how difficult it is to move on. The two characters are complex, and their relationship is doomed but at the same time it's a simple story told as a comparison of Hiroshima versus the Western world. What struck me was the framing of some of the shots - the cinematography looked very advanced for a film that is nearly 60 years old.

https://i.imgur.com/tOwucI4.gif



At times it had a dream like quality and you can see how many films it must have inspired, not only the new wave of the 60s but also films like 'In the Mood for Love'. I enjoyed the nod to Casablanca too, and Emanuelle Riva is beautiful.

https://i.imgur.com/SHluWI2.gif

7.5/10

[the samoan lawyer]

Another bunch of films I've not seen yet, apart from Hiroshima Mon Amour, which I thought was stunning. Of them all I'm probably most looking forward to The Square. Great reviews as usual.

[ScarletLion]

Another bunch of films I've not seen yet, apart from Hiroshima Mon Amour, which I thought was stunning. Of them all I'm probably most looking forward to The Square. Great reviews as usual.

Can't wait to see what you think of The Square. It's a feast for the eyes and mind.

[Ms. M]

'The Square' (2017)

Ruben Ostlund is amazing at asking the audience what they would do in a situation. He presents moral dilemmas. The Square is an extraordinary piece of 'art cinema', in more ways than one. It's a metaphor for the decay of society, the inequality, the mistrust and the fear. This film is unsettling, uncomfortable, awkward and bizarre. It makes us think that perhaps society is becoming the way it is because of our vanity and social needyness. Some of the scenes in this film are as excruciating as they are jaw dropping. It also looks gorgeous and is meticulously framed. It is right up there with the best films of 2017.

8.5/10




I agree with you. I'm wondering, why this movie has so many bad opinions...

[Ms. M]

Another bunch of films I've not seen yet, apart from Hiroshima Mon Amour, which I thought was stunning. Of them all I'm probably most looking forward to The Square. Great reviews as usual.
I'm also curious of your opinion about The square. Let me know, if you like it or not:)

[HashtagBrownies]

Finally got round to it. Absolutely loved it. I spent most of the time wanting to just give Mia a hug. She's so neglected and trodden on, and her mother doesn't realise that all she needs is a gentle tug in the right direction. Some love, someone to talk to, instead of a social worker or a boarding school. She has compassion (we see her care for the horse) and she has ambition (her love of music and dance gives the audience encouragement). Connor and Billy provide her with some sanity as they take her for who she is rather than what she's done. And the film's pay off at the end is huuuuuge.

The scene towards the end where Mia, Tyler and their mum share a little dance, made me weep like a toddler. Andrea Arnold is a genius.

I loved it too. More people need to see it.

[ScarletLion]

I agree with you. I'm wondering, why this movie has so many bad opinions...

Does it? I haven't read any reviews. People need to see it and make up their own minds. I can see why they might say it trailed off in the last third. But I was transfixed throughout.

[ScarletLion]

'Thief' (1981)

https://i.imgur.com/BnU2Wjg.gif

Everybody else seemed to be watching this movie lately, so I thought I'd give it a try. It's a fine thriller from an accomplished Director, even if the plot is nothing to write home about. I loved the neon lights mixed with grimy city views. James Caan is excellent, the rest of the cast not so much, although Belushi is adequate. You can see how modern film has borrowed from movies like this, Winding-Refn's 'Drive' instantly springs to mind.

A solid 7/10

[ScarletLion]

80's Double bill:

'Tender Mercies' (1983)

https://i.imgur.com/sPsmuAY.gif

A sweet little movie. Focuses on fate, father figures, and the bittersweet ironies of life's ups and downs. A very "human" film. Life is ****. It's how you deal with the **** that counts. Robert Duval is one of my favourite actors of all time. He sometimes looks like he could trot out a performance in his sleep, he's that natural.The rest of the cast weren't great in this but it didn't affect the film too much. There's a lovely scene towards the end that shows the viewer how futile some of the things we do are. No matter how hard you work at planning your life, you never know what's just around the corner. It's got some decent country music in it too.

7.5/10


'Out of the Blue' (1980)

https://i.imgur.com/w0LX7rK.gif

Man this was a hard film to track down. I ended up watching a pretty terrible copy, which is a shame as there must be better prints out there. Having said that it's a pretty good film, if a bit harrowing. Cebe is a mixed up young girl who's mantra is to 'subvert normality' and who embraces counterculture to numb the pain. This because she's had such a rough upbringing what with her parents being basically the worst parents alive. I'm not sure how the producers afforded all the song rights to those Neil Young and Elvis tracks but it worked, and I liked all the song lyric references in Cebe's dialogue.

Denis Hopper's direction is raw, grimy and neatly fits the bill. Some of the acting is dreadful though especially by some of the youngsters in the movie. The film became more and more depraved as it went on. I wouldn't say it's a great movie, but I'm glad I watched it, if only to fill in some gaps in Hopper's career. He was one cool cat.

6.5/10

[Ms. M]

Does it? I haven't read any reviews. People need to see it and make up their own minds. I can see why they might say it trailed off in the last third. But I was transfixed throughout.

I watched the movie first and then I've read some rev and opinions abouyt it. The main accusiation is the movie is overblown:shrug:I don't find it like that. I think it's one of the best last year movies.

[ScarletLion]

I watched the movie first and then I've read some rev and opinions abouyt it. The main accusiation is the movie is overblown:shrug:I don't find it like that. I think it's one of the best last year movies.

Overblown? In what way? It's not like there's an explosion every 5 minutes like these awful generic action movies. I don't see that at all.

[Ms. M]

Maybe I used wrong word. Sorry for my English:blush: Better will be pretentious, grandiose.
I disagree with this opinions and they make astonished too. I think this movie is great picture of nowadays cultural trends, shown a little bit as a pastiche.

[Camo]

I've heard that it's heavy-handed and repetitive. Haven't seen it yet myself.

[ScarletLion]

I've heard that it's heavy-handed and repetitive. Haven't seen it yet myself.

It's completely heavy handed. One or 2 scenes in particular are unforgettable. But that's the point really. To hit home the breakdowns of our society and have a dig at virtue signalling and other social themes of today.

[ScarletLion]

Maybe I used wrong word. Sorry for my English:blush: Better will be pretentious, grandiose.
I disagree with this opinions and they make astonished too. I think this movie is great picture of nowadays cultural trends, shown a little bit as a pastiche.

Yeah I guess it is grandiose but not so much pretentious

The one scene that will particularly make people sit up and take note is the after dinner performance art scene. It's long, utterly bizarre, distressing and unforgettable. But those things are why it stands out. Those things are what stick in my mind as I think about what Ostlund is trying to say about society - about how some things are just acts and "performance", about how some people only react as a gesture AFTER the event, and never speak out while the terrible things are actually happening. It's an incredibly relevant film in my opinion.

[Camo]

I don't think heavy-handidness is ever a good thing, it's undesired by definition. Unless you're saying it's good in spite of that.

I haven't even seen it so obviously i won't get what you're saying until i do.

[ScarletLion]

I don't think heavy-handidness is ever a good thing, it's undesired by definition. Unless you're saying it's good in spite of that.

I haven't even seen it so obviously i won't get what you're saying until i do.

Difficult to explain without spoilers. And it all comes down to what your definition of heavy handidness is really. It's subjective. All I can say is, the movie wouldn't have made me think as much about it's themes, if the scenes which one could describe as "heavy handed" weren't in it.

I'd like to see what you thought about it. Let me know if you ever watch it.

[Ms. M]

Yeah I guess it is grandiose but not so much pretentious

The one scene that will particularly make people sit up and take note is the after dinner performance art scene. It's long, utterly bizarre, distressing and unforgettable. But those things are why it stands out. Those things are what stick in my mind as I think about what Ostlund is trying to say about society - about how some things are just acts and "performance", about how some people only react as a gesture AFTER the event, and never speak out while the terrible things are actually happening. It's an incredibly relevant film in my opinion.
I don't find it even grandiose. The art is shown grandiose, but characters are of flesz and blood. They have their ambitions, feelings, fears.
The scene you are talking about, is absolutely unforgettable, I agree. I find in this movie a lot of scenes, which are like that. This particular one was stressful. The one with invitation for a meal, when people don't listen the cook and just move to find the food, was funny. The monkey in the girls place! Her question, what kind of is relation is between her and the main character... Oh, I'll stop here.

[ScarletLion]

I don't find it even grandiose. The art is shown grandiose, but characters are of flesz and blood. They have their ambitions, feelings, fears.
The scene you are talking about, is absolutely unforgettable, I agree. I find in this movie a lot of scenes, which are like that. This particular one was stressful. The one with invitation for a meal, when people don't listen the cook and just move to find the food, was funny. The monkey in the girls place! Her question, what kind of is relation is between her and the main character... Oh, I'll stop here.

Yup. 'Excruciating' is the only word I can find to explain those scenes. It would be an entirely different film if we weren't squirming in our seats. That's what the Director is aiming for I think - to make us question our conscience.

[Ms. M]

Yup. 'Excruciating' is the only word I can find to explain those scenes. It would be an entirely different film if we weren't squirming in our seats. That's what the Director is aiming for I think - to make us question our conscience.
I think the same, coz I started to ask myself about fiction I'm constantly fed by pop culture.
It was nice to talk to you:)

[ScarletLion]

'The Loved Ones' (2009)

https://i.imgur.com/39top4a.gif

I don't normally enjoy movies like this, but there was something about this that I was drawn into. I couldn't stop watching. Maybe it was Robin McLeavy's performance as a high school nut job wannabe prom queen or maybe I was just simply in the mood for it. It's a sick and twisted Aussie gore horror and while it doesn't tear up any trees in terms of originality, it has a certain quirky something about it, and is quite well shot.

6.5/10

[ScarletLion]

''Bring me the Head of Alfredo Garcia' (1974)

http://www.bfi.org.uk/sites/bfi.org.uk/files/styles/full/public/image/bring-me-the-head-of-alfredo-garcia-1974-003-bennie-sitting-dirty-and-bloodied-00m-xta.jpg?itok=L0OHmuOb

Warren Oates is great in this. The dialogue was fun "You two guys are definitely on my **** list", and it had that seediness that seems to ooze from Peckinpah movies. Enjoyed it if it wasn't riveting throughout

7/10

[Chypmunk]

Not seen Alfredo for years - used to really enjoy it so must try and seek it out if I can at some point.

[ScarletLion]

Not seen Alfredo for years - used to really enjoy it so must try and seek it out if I can at some point.

Would you describe it as a Western?

[Camo]

The Loved Ones is a top ten horror this century for me. Movies don't scare me anymore but i think if i saw the hole and heard those muffled screams as a kid i would have been terrified. Robin McLeavy gives a great unhinged performance and i was oddly into the subplot too. It's not very original but barely any horrors are nowadays and that's not a requirement for me to think highly of one.

[Chypmunk]

Would you describe it as a Western?
Personally I wouldn't, far more crime drama than western imo. How about you?

Forgot to scroll back to the previous page (my bad) .... add me to those that thoroughly enjoy The Loved Ones - adore Robin McLeavy's performance in that one.

[ScarletLion]

The Loved Ones is a top ten horror this century for me. Movies don't scare me anymore but i think if i saw the hole and heard those muffled screams as a kid i would have been terrified. Robin McLeavy gives a great unhinged performance and i was oddly into the subplot too. It's not very original but barely any horrors are nowadays and that's not a requirement for me to think highly of one.

She was really good. Her little facial expressions were convincing.

[ScarletLion]

Personally I wouldn't, far more crime drama than western imo. How about you?

Forgot to scroll back to the previous page (my bad) .... add me to those that thoroughly enjoy The Loved Ones - adore Robin McLeavy's performance in that one.

Yes I think I would. At least of the mashup kind. Bounties, seedy bars, roadside ambushes etc All themes that have been in classic westerns.

As a side note, I knew nothing of this movie going in and from the opening scene - I thought it was set in about 1920s - then we gradually see men in suits, cars, guns and an aeroplane! That mystical old mexico feeling drifted in and out for me.

[Camo]

I thought it was set in about 1920s - then we gradually see men in suits, cars, guns and an aeroplane! .

These things all existed in the 1920s :p. Nah i know what you mean. Should see Alfredo Garcia soon myself, only watched Straw Dogs and The Wild Bunch from Peckinpah, liked both quite a bit.

[ScarletLion]

These things all existed in the 1920s :p. Nah i know what you mean. Should see Alfredo Garcia soon myself, only watched Straw Dogs and The Wild Bunch from Peckinpah, liked both quite a bit.

:D

This was my 4th Peckinpah I think. Enjoyed Straw Dogs and The Getaway .

[Camo]

:D

This was my 4th Peckinpah I think. Enjoyed Straw Dogs and The Getaway .

Oh i've seen The Getaway as well forgot that was him. Didn't like it at the time but i was around 10 years old, was into the game so i watched that and it was not what i was expecting or what i'd have enjoyed at that age.

[Chypmunk]

Yes I think I would. At least of the mashup kind. Bounties, seedy bars, roadside ambushes etc All themes that have been in classic westerns.

As a side note, I knew nothing of this movie going in and from the opening scene - I thought it was set in about 1920s - then we gradually see men in suits, cars, guns and an aeroplane! That mystical old mexico feeling drifted in and out for me.
Aye, it certainly has western aspects so I'd not argue with anyone wanting to classify it as one. If I remember correctly (again, it has been a cpl of decades since last viewing so nothing is a given on that front lol) weren't there some scenes that were even shot like it was a western?

Bottom line is I really ought to scratch the itch to see it again so thanks for the timely reminder :)

[the samoan lawyer]

I'm also curious of your opinion about The square. Let me know, if you like it or not:)


Will do. :)

[the samoan lawyer]

80's Double bill:

'Tender Mercies' (1983)

https://i.imgur.com/sPsmuAY.gif

A sweet little movie. Focuses on fate, father figures, and the bittersweet ironies of life's ups and downs. A very "human" film. Life is ****. It's how you deal with the **** that counts. Robert Duval is one of my favourite actors of all time. He sometimes looks like he could trot out a performance in his sleep, he's that natural.The rest of the cast weren't great in this but it didn't affect the film too much. There's a lovely scene towards the end that shows the viewer how futile some of the things we do are. No matter how hard you work at planning your life, you never know what's just around the corner. It's got some decent country music in it too.

7.5/10


'Out of the Blue' (1980)

https://i.imgur.com/w0LX7rK.gif

Man this was a hard film to track down. I ended up watching a pretty terrible copy, which is a shame as there must be better prints out there. Having said that it's a pretty good film, if a bit harrowing. Cebe is a mixed up young girl who's mantra is to 'subvert normality' and who embraces counterculture to numb the pain. This because she's had such a rough upbringing what with her parents being basically the worst parents alive. I'm not sure how the producers afforded all the song rights to those Neil Young and Elvis tracks but it worked, and I liked all the song lyric references in Cebe's dialogue.

Denis Hopper's direction is raw, grimy and neatly fits the bill. Some of the acting is dreadful though especially by some of the youngsters in the movie. The film became more and more depraved as it went on. I wouldn't say it's a great movie, but I'm glad I watched it, if only to fill in some gaps in Hopper's career. He was one cool cat.

6.5/10


Two movies I watched for the first time fairly recently. Enjoyed them both, especially Out of The Blue, which I pegged you down as liking more than you did. Agree though, some of the acting is poor.

[cricket]

Like Camo, The Loved Ones is one of my favorite horrors of the 2000's, and I'm glad you got something out of Out of the Blue!

[ScarletLion]

'Mute' (2018)

https://i.imgur.com/FzoLClc.gif

I've been eagerly waiting for this film for a few years. Duncan Jones said it has been 16 years in the making. Moon is probably in my top 50 movies of all time. 'Mute' looks and feels like a pilot episode of a show made for the SyFy channel that never got green lit.

I'm so disappointed I don't have the strength to make a mini review of it. In terms of ratio of expectation levels to quality of film, I'd rank it as one of the worst movies I have ever seen. Paul Rudd is the only thing that prevents it from being rated as low as possible.

3/10

[ScarletLion]

'Gallipoli' (1981)

https://i.imgur.com/Nskq3Yd.jpg

Directed by Peter Weir and starring a young Mel Gibson it focuses on the failed but important battle of Gallipoli in the first world war. Thousands of Australian and New Zealand men lost their lives trying to help the allied forces hold back the enemy. The film largely focuses on a coming of age story between 2 friends Archie and Frank. They are sprinters in Western Australia and very keen to join the army to travel the world. They soon realise that fighting a war isn't the big adventure it's made out to be.

It's a poignant film and in parts, very funny with a sharp dialogue. There are also some lovely settings with the film being shot in Australia and Egypt. The thing I'll take with me most, is the heartbreaking ending though. It's a tough watch after alot of the film has been about 2 happy go lucky souls and their light hearted approach to life. Definitely worth a watch.

7.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'Five Easy Pieces' (1970)

https://i.imgur.com/phcLZsM.gif

Good film. I wasn't expecting it to be as cerebral. But it's a film that makes you think about life choices as well as conformity and the ridiculousness of life.

I have no idea if Kubrick got some plans for The Shining from this film but it really feels that way. Nicholson is pretty great. And it was nice to see a fresh faced Lois Smith, I've previously seen her only in her later roles.

7.5/10

[Dani8]

It's a tough watch

it sure is.Nice review, Scarlett.

[Camo]

Five Easy Pieces contains Nicholson's best performance. He's incredible.

[ScarletLion]

Five Easy Pieces contains Nicholson's best performance. He's incredible.

I'm struggling to disagree. He's perfect in it. Some really top notch lines too.

[ScarletLion]

'The Shape of Water' (2018)

https://i.imgur.com/SuTj2Dp.gif


Beautiful to look at, superb performances by all the cast but it's highly derivative and seems to overkill the political metaphors / themes for a crumbling USA (a burdened gay person - check, poor black family - check, destitute single woman - check, hapless south american - check, nasty evil bad guy - check). The film really tried to squeeze out every drop of sympathy in my body for the good characters and every morsel of hatred for the bad guy, and in the end just left me drained.

Oh and it's not a crime to keep the camera still! Every shot is either panning or zooming or some movement filled technique.

Disappointing

5/10

[Ms. M]

I like your description:)
I'm going to watch the movie this month. Perversely, your rev encourage me, coz I don't like to anticipate more and then be disappointed.

[ScarletLion]

I like your description:)
I'm going to watch the movie this month. Perversely, your rev encourage me, coz I don't like to anticipate more and then be disappointed.

I think it's just not my thing really. A bit too much fantasty.

[Ms. M]

I think it's just not my thing really. A bit too much fantasty.
Yeah, I understand. I'll check it soon:)

[ScarletLion]

'I Killed My Mother' (2009)

https://i.imgur.com/qtSsZ1d.gif

17. That's how old Xavier Dolan was when he wrote this. Massively impressive for someone so young to articulate himself this well and commit it to film. He then directed it 3 years later. The film itself explores unconditional love, moving on to new phases of life, and the things you can and can't change or choose. Dolan is also excellent as the troubled teen who has a volatile relationship with his parents. Dolan is a freak of a film-maker. A wonderkid.

8.5 /10

[ScarletLion]

'Angst' (1983) -


[spoilers ahead]

https://i.imgur.com/oUKOa1m.gif

Why did nobody prepare me for this? Holy mother of Christ that was an experience. Probably one of the most disturbing films I've ever seen. It's alarmingly real and believable - because the viewer is put into the mind of a truly deranged individual as he tries to rationalize his heinous actions. And those rationalizations based on mental illness and previous abuse seem very credible. This is mostly due to Erwin Leder's pretty phenomenal performance as the psychopathic criminal. At times it's so realistic it feels like you're sitting in the corner going through the experience with these people.

There's not much hope here. No pay off, no real chance of rehabilitation or remorse. But that in a way is what makes it so good. It's just a devastatingly raw, unpleasant peek inside the mind of an evil killer. I'd say this is one of the best horror chiller movies of it's genre I've seen and it feels like alot of the camera work and techniques were borrowed in future films, although no doubt someone got there before 'Angst'.

The unsettling camera angles in the house make it even more alarming as we can't see the full field of vision as we normally would - so the viewer is put on the edge of his seat most of the time. There are thrilling Point of View shots, high positioned cameras and even moving cameras on a car that add to the edgy, irritable mood the viewer is thrust into. The infamous scene in 'Irreversible' will surely have drawn influence from a similar one in this movie. An incredibly convincing and disturbing horror chiller. One of those movies that I'm extremely glad to have seen but have no real wish to see again.

Oh and this scene made me laugh out loud and instantly think of about 3 Todd Solondz movies:

https://i.imgur.com/InLE2sT.gif

8/10

[Ms. M]

'I Killed My Mother' (2009)

Dolan is also excellent as the troubled teen who has a volatile relationship with his parents. Dolan is a freak of a film-maker. A wonderkid.


8.5 /10
When I saw his movie for the first time I was astounded. Subsequent films had the same effect on me:D
Love this guy. He is genious. This is my fav Dolan's movie:
https://media.paperblog.fr/i/319/3192616/xavier-dolan-revient-avec-amours-imaginaires-L-1.jpeg,Have you seen it?

[ScarletLion]

When I saw his movie for the first time I was astounded. Subsequent films had the same effect on me:D
Love this guy. He is genious. This is my fav Dolan's movie:
https://media.paperblog.fr/i/319/3192616/xavier-dolan-revient-avec-amours-imaginaires-L-1.jpeg,Have you seen it?

Is that heartbeats? I've not seen that or Tom at the farm or Laurence Anyways. They're all on the watchlist, as I'm rapidly becoming a huge fan of Dolan's.

[Ms. M]

Is that heartbeats? I've not seen that or Tom at the farm or Laurence Anyways. They're all on the watchlist, as I'm rapidly becoming a huge fan of Dolan's.
Yes, it's Heartbreaker - the first Dolan's movie I've seen and my fav:) Laurenca was also great and Tom very very disturbing. Like when you don't want to look and can't turn out your sight at the same time. My whole body was flex:D

[ScarletLion]

Yes, it's Heartbreaker - the first Dolan's movie I've seen and my fav:) Laurenca was also great and Tom very very disturbing. Like when you don't want to look and can't turn out your sight at the same time. My whole body was flex:D

I will report back my findings in this here thread when I watch them! Can't wait.

[the samoan lawyer]

'Angst' (1983) -


[spoilers ahead]

https://i.imgur.com/oUKOa1m.gif




Why did nobody prepare me for this? Holy mother of Christ that was an experience. Probably one of the most disturbing films I've ever seen. It's alarmingly real and believable - because the viewer is put into the mind of a truly deranged individual as he tries to rationalize his heinous actions. And those rationalizations based on mental illness and previous abuse seem very credible. This is mostly due to Erwin Leder's pretty phenomenal performance as the psychopathic criminal. At times it's so realistic it feels like you're sitting in the corner going through the experience with these people.

There's not much hope here. No pay off, no real chance of rehabilitation or remorse. But that in a way is what makes it so good. It's just a devastatingly raw, unpleasant peek inside the mind of an evil killer. I'd say this is one of the best horror chiller movies of it's genre I've seen and it feels like alot of the camera work and techniques were borrowed in future films, although no doubt someone got there before 'Angst'.

The unsettling camera angles in the house make it even more alarming as we can't see the full field of vision as we normally would - so the viewer is put on the edge of his seat most of the time. There are thrilling Point of View shots, high positioned cameras and even moving cameras on a car that add to the edgy, irritable mood the viewer is thrust into. The infamous scene in 'Irreversible' will surely have drawn influence from a similar one in this movie. An incredibly convincing and disturbing horror chiller. One of those movies that I'm extremely glad to have seen but have no real wish to see again.

Oh and this scene made me laugh out loud and instantly think of about 3 Todd Solondz movies:

https://i.imgur.com/InLE2sT.gif

8/10


Great film and a Cricket favourite if I am correct. Definitely one of the best home invasion films out there.

[ScarletLion]

'The Sea of Trees' (2016)

https://i.imgur.com/w9ROzy8.gif

I was intrigued by the premise: a man goes to commit suicide in the renowned 'Suicide forest' in the shadow of Mt Fuji in Japan.......and for half an hour it was interesting but it just descends into farce.

I like Gus van Sant but I don't know why he, Matthew McConaghey and Naomi Watts put their name to this really. The last 20 minutes is some of the most corny plot resolving I've seen for many a year. It was almost parody. First we are told in a voice over, the exact plot theme, just incase we hadn't worked it out - then we're given a pay off arc that is straight out off a primary school pupil's C- essay attempt.

Disappointing

4.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'The Reflecting Skin' (1991)

http://offscreen.com/images/made/images/articles/_resized/Review_5_photo_-_The_Reflecting_Skin_(1990)_1000_420_c1.png

I saw this described as' Blue Velvet with children'. And that's about right. It's very Lynchian and has some very bizzare and disturbing moments as we see rural 1950s life told through the eyes of a young boy. It's not for everyone as it's quite far removed, just like most of David Lynch's work is. But Philip Ridley's direction is very good and it looks lovely.

7/10

[ScarletLion]

'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly' (2007)

https://i.imgur.com/XKfR45z.gif

One of the most beautiful, moving films I've ever seen. About the French Editor of Elle Magazine who suffered a huge stroke triggering locked in syndrome. Gone straight into my top 20. I've not really got any other words for it at the moment.

9.5 / 10

[the samoan lawyer]

Glad you enjoyed Diving Bell. The other 2 are on my list so will bump Reflecting Skin.

[Ms. M]

I wouldn't rate Diving Bell so high, but still it would be full 8:)

[CaptainT]

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly sounds really good! I added it to my watchlist.

[Okay]

I absolutely love "Angst". The filming style in it is quite remarkable and influential. Gaspar Noé complimented the film and sited it as one of his favourites, numerous times.

I haven't seen Dolan's directorial debut, and I don't know if I'd even like it, since I'm assuming he has become much better throughout the years. I'll have to check out sooner or later regardless, since I'm a huge fan of him.

[ScarletLion]

'Annihilation' (2018)

https://thegameofnerds.files.wordpress.com/2017/09/annihilation-7.jpg

Went straight over my head. I have absolutely no idea what it was trying to tell me. It looked and sounded stunning. But at the end of the day I have no idea if it was about the cycle of life, guilt, morality or just a straight up Sci-Fi horror flick.

6/10

[ScarletLion]

'Chungking Express' (1994)

https://i.imgur.com/FB9SL3v.gif

I enjoyed the narrative structure, city colors and intersecting storylines but ultimately it was a bit of a slog. The movie is hyped up as something special in certain quarters but I didn't get that at all. There was just not enough tension, emotion or magic in the film to keep me on the edge of my seat. Overall = disappointing.

6/10

[ScarletLion]

'Trance' (2013)

http://dl9fvu4r30qs1.cloudfront.net/a0/e8/98e91cda4d4ba2da2a8e7f1dec10/trance-james-mcavoy-rosario-dawson.jpg

That's three 6 out of 10s in a row from me. It looked fantastic with some great cutaway shots and effects, but ultimately the plot is so choreographed and you can see the reveal coming a mile off. My love-hate relationship with Danny Boyle continues.

6/10

[Mr Minio]

'Angst' (1983)


I like how the film is animal-friendly. The dog survives!
Love this guy. He is genious Not a genius, though.
Overall = disappointing So is your note on this film. :(

[Ms. M]

Not a genius, though.
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTvO5GxwLk1DollT6_Ydt_Gkma2m-ovSMMu-rnsaId4k2P4luGc

[the samoan lawyer]

I liked Chungking Express a little more than you did but I think I went in with too high expectations. Annihilation I haven't seen but really want to and Trance , I hated.

[ScarletLion]

'You were never really here' (2018)

http://lwlcdn.lwlies.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/you-were-never-really-here-joaquin-phoenix-900x0-c-default.jpg

Lynne Ramsay does it again. It's a cerebral, mysterious journey into the psyche of a troubled man. There's obvious comparisons with a lot that has come before but it's interesting enough to be it's own thing. Joaquin Phoenix is terrific.

8/10

[ScarletLion]

'Bad Day at Black Rock' (1955)

https://ttcritic.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/spencertracy.jpg

A mysterious stranger arrives at a tiny town determined to drag up the past. Very neat little noir / mystery / western. Loved seeing a young Ernest Borgnine and Lee Marvin as the muscle men.

6.5/10

'Operation Avalanche' (2016)

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRxvwU46jnt4_JBr7H4Dz-WOjnEZ4ZLGzQ9QflcHeTPV04ddgQ8

I really enjoy watching Matt Johnson's movies as they are packed with ideas, and his ambition is infectious. You can see he is an utter film nerd sort of living out his dream on screen. Operation Avalanche comes across as part passion project and part Stanley Kubrick homage. The tagline to the film is:

"In 1967, four undercover CIA agents were sent to NASA posing as a documentary film crew. What they discovered led to one of the biggest conspiracies in American history."

I enjoyed spotting all the old movie posters in the background of his office, and there is a brilliant car chase scene towards the end of the movie. It is silly in parts, and doesn't quite match up to Johnson's 'The Dirties' but it was enjoyable and I hope Johnson gets to make more of these types of movies.

7/10

[the samoan lawyer]

Not seen either of your last two but you had piqued my interest before in Johnson's The Dirties. Bad Daty at Black Rock I've been meaning to watch for ages.

[Okay]

I loved "Operation Avalanche", even more so than "The Dirties". What's so fascinating about it, is how the vast majority of the movie, is actual real life occurring. Matt was able to trick NASA, by having a similar cover to the one his character used in the film, in order to get into the organisation. So all of the showcased interviews he accomplished, are with genuine people, who didn't even know they were in a movie. I'm very impressed by his majestic ability, of constantly pushing the boundaries, of what you can show and get away with in films.

[ScarletLion]

I loved "Operation Avalanche", even more so than "The Dirties". What's so fascinating about it, is how the vast majority of the movie, is actual real life occurring. Matt was able to trick NASA, by having a similar cover to the one his character used in the film, in order to get into the organisation. So all of the showcased interviews he accomplished, are with genuine people, who didn't even know they were in a movie. I'm very impressed by his majestic ability, of constantly pushing the boundaries, of what you can show and get away with in films.

Is that right? Ha, that's awesome. I like his style alot.

[ScarletLion]

'Strangers on a Train' (1951)

https://i.imgur.com/rfCJSDo.gif

What a great film. Right from the start, the dialogue just hooked me in with it's sinister undertones and mysterious characters. It continues to be a creepy, nightmarish but clever plot that unfolds as Hitchcock masterfully guides us through a messed up criminal mind.

https://i.imgur.com/rjWPEJ9.gif

The film is shot beautifully. Some of the panning and zooming in, together with well lit features and Dutch angles are pretty incredible considering this was 1951. Apparently Hitchcock had an entire amusement park built for the set design of the fairground scenes, just outside los angeles - and had a tennis professional coach Farley Grainger for the close up tennis scenes. The rest of the tennis scenes were actually shots of Davis Cup matches at Flushing Meadow, New York. What a perfectionist.

https://i.imgur.com/1fZDrh1.gif

Everything about it screams 'classic'. Maybe even a masterpiece. The scenes with Bruno's mother are quite unsettling and an obvious precursor for 'Psycho'. If I had one criticism it would be that the ending for me wasn't sinister enough. I wanted it to take another dark turn, but that's probably down to my tastes, and I can't fault Hitchcock for a bit of audience pandering now and again.

At least 8.5 out of 10

4

https://i.imgur.com/JkG0Hxm.gif

[Chypmunk]

One of my favourite Hitch's :up:

[ScarletLion]

One of my favourite Hitch's :up:

It's up there tied with Vertigo for me. I've only seen about 4 or 5 though.

[the samoan lawyer]

Great film! Gets a 4 but still probably wouldn't be top 10 Hitch for me. I thought it was let down by the ending.

[ScarletLion]

Great film! Gets a 4 but still probably wouldn't be top 10 Hitch for me. I thought it was let down by the ending.

Yikes, not even top 10? What others would you recommend? I plan to watch:

North by Northwest
39 steps
Notorious
The Man Who knew too much
Rebecca

I've seen

Rope
The Birds
Vertigo
Rear Window
Strangers on a Train
Psycho

[Camo]

I have Strangers on a Train 9/24 so far, like it a lot. I'd add The Wrong Man and Shadow of a Doubt to those you mentioned. Also there's two The Man Who Knew Too Much films which one are you going to watch?

My ranking so far (some of them could do with a rewatch) - https://letterboxd.com/camarel/list/alfred-hitchock-ranked/

[ScarletLion]

I have Strangers on a Train 9/24 so far, like it a lot. I'd add The Wrong Man and Shadow of a Doubt to those you mentioned. Also there's two The Man Who Knew Too Much films which one are you going to watch?

My ranking so far (some of them could do with a rewatch) - https://letterboxd.com/camarel/list/alfred-hitchock-ranked/

This is the one I've earmarked:

https://trakt.tv/movies/the-man-who-knew-too-much-1956

Added the others too thanks. Good list. I totally forgot about 'Dial M for Murder'

[the samoan lawyer]

Yikes, not even top 10? What others would you recommend? I plan to watch:

North by Northwest
39 steps
Notorious
The Man Who knew too much
Rebecca

I've seen

Rope
The Birds
Vertigo
Rear Window
Strangers on a Train
Psycho


I'd need to double check but think I've seen 26 so far and I could honestly recommend nearly every one of them. Rebecca is probably my favourite so definitely watch that one plus I think you'd really enjoy I. You also must watch Dial M for Murder and Shadow of a Doubt. Suspicion is another one that I love and think it doesn't get the recognition I deserve. The most recent first watch of a Hitch I saw was The Lodger, which is a great watch too just to see the start of what was to become.


You cant go wrong really.

[ScarletLion]

I'd need to double check but think I've seen 26 so far and I could honestly recommend nearly every one of them. Rebecca is probably my favourite so definitely watch that one plus I think you'd really enjoy I. You also must watch Dial M for Murder and Shadow of a Doubt. Suspicion is another one that I love and think it doesn't get the recognition I deserve. The most recent first watch of a Hitch I saw was The Lodger, which is a great watch too just to see the start of what was to become.


You cant go wrong really.

Nice. Loads to catch up on.

[Camo]

The Lodger is one of my favourite Silent films so far. Possibly the most evil seeming character in a Hitch film and it's stunning.

[cricket]

Trance was a dud but still worth watching for Rosario Dawson OMG!

I liked Bad Day at Black Rock but was still a little disappointed.

Psyched for You've Never Really Been Here Before and still need to see Chunky Express.

[ScarletLion]

still worth watching for Rosario Dawson OMG!



Yeah I hear you. I was open mouthed at "that" scene.

[ScarletLion]

'Golden Exits' (2017)

https://cdn.flickeringmyth.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Golden-Exits-poster-200x300.jpg

Alex Ross Perry's slow paced family drama set in New York is intimate, but doesn't really grab the audience at any time. There are some fine performances, especially from Chloe Sevigny. It feels like a Kenneth Lonnergan script Directed by Noah Baumbach but not as comedic. It's shot on Celluloid (super 16) and has that grainy feel to alot of it, which gives it an almost nostalgic tone. At it's heart it's about unhappiness, life choices and anxiety. The dialogue is sharp and almost awkwardly cutting at times from certain characters. I don't think I'd recommend this to many people as one of the films from 2017 as it's one of those movies that perhaps requires an acquired taste, i.e.- script heavy, ensemble cast with very few locations. But I'm glad I saw it.

6/10

[ScarletLion]

'10 timer til Paradis' (Teddy Bear) (2012)

http://muscle.iuhu.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dennis-teddy-bear.png

This was a difficult film to track down, but I'm glad I did. A sweet, poignant tale about a 38 year old bodybuilder, who lives with his possessive mother, but just wants a girlfriend. The lead character Dennis is played expertly by Kim Kold, who is a former soccer goalkeeper that took up bodybuilding after a serious injury and now acting. And a fine job he did.

The movie is based on a short film called "Dennis" with the same Director Mads Matthiesen. It has tender, realistic dialogue and moves between Copenhagen, Denmark to Pattaya, Thailand were Dennis searches for a girlfriend.

Overall I'd recommend it for those who enjoy a quiet, downbeat love story.. 7/10

[ScarletLion]

Double bill for the Female Directors countdown, and they're both strong contenders :

'Vagabond' (1985)

https://i.imgur.com/bYgw7xm.gif

A fairly harrowing tale of how society can be as harsh as it can be welcoming. Agnes Varda seems to touch to the state of modern France in the 80s although the title character wasn't without flaws. Just because Mona wanted a different existence to what society expects, it shouldn't mean that she should be rejected at every corner. I think this film was probably ahead of its time in that respect. I also liked how some of the characters broke the 4th wall. It's crushing in it's inevitability. But that's the point.

7/10 at least maybe more

.................................................................................................... .............................................



'The Ascent' (1977)

https://i.imgur.com/mFWJgMB.gif

Wow, this won't only go in the top of my female directors list it will go at the top of my best war films list. Brutal, harrowing, hauntingly realistic. Lots of facial close ups that show the realization of what war is, as it dawns upon the 2 soldiers. It makes the viewer ponder the question of self sacrifice for the greater good.

There are two pretty incredible performances from the leads and some of the camerawork must have been difficult to undertake in those conditions. I was gripped from minute one.I can see how this might perhaps have been a big influence to films like 'Son of Saul'.

Devastating and Unforgettable.

8.5/10

[the samoan lawyer]

I watched Vagabond fairly recently and liked it. Keep meaning to watch more from Varda. The Ascent is on my list to watch and I'm glad you enjoyed it, even though I hated Son of Saul.

[ScarletLion]

I watched Vagabond fairly recently and liked it. Keep meaning to watch more from Varda. The Ascent is on my list to watch and I'm glad you enjoyed it, even though I hated Son of Saul.

That's a shame you hated son of saul, I thought it was epic.

[ScarletLion]

'Wild Wild Country' (2018)

https://cdn1.thr.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/landscape_928x523/2018/01/wild_wild_country_still.jpg


This is a 6 part documentary produced by the Duplass brothers and on Netflix. It's about a religious movement (or cult as some would call it) that moved from India in the 1980s and took over a small town in Oregon, USA. What followed was a chaotic 4 years of deceit, lies, violence, murder plots, incarceration, escape bids, movie producers joining the cult and more.

It's put together extremely well and features alot of archive footage that must have been painstaking to edit. What I enjoyed most is the impartial nature it was presented in. There are interviews from the aggrieved townsfolk, members of the cult, attorneys and those who defected. A crazy story and a must watch.

4.5

[the samoan lawyer]

'Wild Wild Country' (2018)

https://cdn1.thr.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/landscape_928x523/2018/01/wild_wild_country_still.jpg


This is a 6 part documentary produced by the Duplass brothers and on Netflix. It's about a religious movement (or cult as some would call it) that moved from India in the 1980s and took over a small town in Oregon, USA. What followed was a chaotic 4 years of deceit, lies, violence, murder plots, incarceration, escape bids, movie producers joining the cult and more.

It's put together extremely well and features alot of archive footage that must have been painstaking to edit. What I enjoyed most is the impartial nature it was presented in. There are interviews from the aggrieved townsfolk, members of the cult, attorneys and those who defected. A crazy story and a must watch.

rating_4_5


I'm halfway through this. Crazy story. Sheelah is one tough cookie!!

[ScarletLion]

I'm halfway through this. Crazy story. Sheelah is one tough cookie!!

Good isn't it. It gets better and better.

[the samoan lawyer]

Good isn't it. It gets better and better.


Yeah its great. I knew absolutely nothing about it going in so I've no idea what's happening next!!

[ScarletLion]

Scarlet, have you watched The White Helmets (2016)? Think you'd really like it.

It's on the list. I've been putting it off as I've heard mixed feelings about it and whether it's actually 100% genuine or just propaganda.

[the samoan lawyer]

It's on the list. I've been putting it off as I've heard mixed feelings about it and whether it's actually 100% genuine or just propaganda.


Propaganda. Still an interesting watch for its running time.

[ScarletLion]

'Nil by Mouth' (1997)

https://a.ltrbxd.com/resized/film-poster/3/8/5/2/2/38522-nil-by-mouth-0-230-0-345-crop.jpg?k=38053d51fd

Powerful, hard hitting drama. One of great British films of the 90s. Kathy Burke gives a ridiculous performance. The film begs the question of why Gary Oldman has never written and Directed more - but then maybe this is the only one he ever wanted to do given it's subejct content and how it relates to him.

4

[ScarletLion]

I guess I'll use this post to link to some Foreign Language Hall of Fame mini reviews:

'Phoenix' (2014)
https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1887861#post1887861

'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg' (1964)
https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1887878#post1887878

'Benny's Video' (1993)
https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1888103#post1888103

The Age of Shadows (2016)
https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1888217#post1888217

[the samoan lawyer]

'Nil by Mouth' (1997)

https://a.ltrbxd.com/resized/film-poster/3/8/5/2/2/38522-nil-by-mouth-0-230-0-345-crop.jpg?k=38053d51fd

Powerful, hard hitting drama. One of great British films of the 90s. Kathy Burke gives a ridiculous performance. The film begs the question of why Gary Oldman has never written and Directed more - but then maybe this is the only one he ever wanted to do given it's subejct content and how it relates to him.

rating_4


Good film. Been a while since I last watched it so due a rewatch but its certainly a hard one to forget. And totally agree, Burke is phenomenal, super talented.

[ScarletLion]

'Manhunt: Unabomber' [Discovery Network]

https://i.imgur.com/g2u4sfZ.gif

Very good miniseries focused on the Unabomber serial killer. I have no idea how close it is to the truth, and there was one episode that was particularly off kilter but overall it's a very worthwhile journey. And it looks absolutely stunning too.

4

[the samoan lawyer]

'Manhunt: Unabomber' [Discovery Network]

https://i.imgur.com/g2u4sfZ.gif

Very good miniseries focused on the Unabomber serial killer. I have no idea how close it is to the truth, and there was one episode that was particularly off kilter but overall it's a very worthwhile journey. And it looks absolutely stunning too.

rating_4


Enjoyed this too. I thought Paul Bettany was brilliant, never been a fan of his much.

[Camo]

I watched the first two episodes of that. From those it's a strong contender for the worst show i've ever watched but maybe it gets better.

[ScarletLion]

I watched the first two episodes of that. From those it's a strong contender for the worst show i've ever watched but maybe it gets better.

Really? The worst? Wow.

[ScarletLion]

'Small Town Crime' (2018)

http://gonewiththetwins.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/smalltowncrime.jpg

I like John Hawkes, and he was quite good in this dark crime thriller. But it has a weak, weak script and feels like it's probably ripping off a tonne of 1970s crime movies.Starts off quite good fun but just ends up in derivative stock thriller mode.

2.5

[ScarletLion]

'Nothing bad can happen' (2013)

Yeah there's not much joy to be found in this one. Highly disturbing with an air of dark inevitability about the whole thing. right from the start.



https://i.imgur.com/YLkKFS4.gif

Glad I watched it. But I wouldn't exactly recommend it to anyone. I did wonder though, whether there was a nod to previous German regimes, what with the blonde haired victim being at the hands of unspeakable evil. Probably just me over analysing it though.

3

[the samoan lawyer]

'Nothing bad can happen' (2013)

Yeah there's not much joy to be found in this one. Highly disturbing with an air of dark inevitability about the whole thing. right from the start.



https://i.imgur.com/YLkKFS4.gif

Glad I watched it. But I wouldn't exactly recommend it to anyone. I did wonder though, whether there was a nod to previous German regimes, what with the blonde haired victim being at the hands of unspeakable evil. Probably just me over analysing it though.

rating_3


Good call with that, never occurred to me. Certainly one of the bleakest I've seen in a while. Cricket loves the chicken eating scene.

[ScarletLion]

Good call with that, never occurred to me. Certainly one of the bleakest I've seen in a while. Cricket loves the chicken eating scene.

I genuinely gagged and had to look away. :pIt was excruciating.

[ScarletLion]

'Frequencies' (2013)

http://mmaila.in/posts/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Frequencies-2013.jpg


Low budget British sci-fi flick that feels like a feature length episode of Black Mirror that didn't make the cut. It explores relationships, mental health, societal standards, elitism. The script and acting are average at best, but the concept is pretty interesting.

6/10

[ScarletLion]

'Bleak Night' (2010)

https://cine-vue.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ca9a2-pluto.gif

This film is hard to get hold of for some reason, but it's worth it. It is reminiscent of 'Peppermint Candy' in that there are alot of flashbacks and interweaving timelines all central to one tragic event. It's very dialogue driven and is a character study of sorts, into the breakdown of a relationship of 3 high school students in South Korea. Slow paced in parts. There are lots of facial close ups which mean that the actors really have to deliver, and they did. Not everyone's cup of tea but it's an interesting look into the pressures of high school life.

7.5/10

[ScarletLion]

'Gook' (2017)

https://i.imgur.com/KZWFOay.gif


If I had watched this 2017 film in 2017, it would be near the top of my best movies of 2017. But I watched it in 2018 so was too late. It's a slice of life type movie set in the days that follow the Rodney King incident in Los Angeles in '92. It's written by, directed by and stars Justin Chon as the lead male Eli. And he pulls off a terrific job. The entire cast is perfect. There are some proper acting chops on display here. From the young Simone Baker playing 10 year old Kamilla to the amazing Curtis Cook Jnr who plays the gang member Keith - they all nail it. Chon even cast his own father as the liquor store owner, and there's one scene in particular that I had to re-watch after reading that fact, as it becomes even more affecting. Chon also states that 'La Haine' is a massive influence on 'Gook', which is no surprise given the subject content and aesthetics.

The film itself centres on Eli and his brother Daniel (played by David So) trying to run a shoe shop in Paramount, L.A. The story is touching, funny, brutal, poignant, tragic and touches on the things you'd expect it to - race relations, immigration, gang culture, poverty, family. What it also does is explore the experiences of Asian American families during the 90s, something not many films have done.

There will no doubt be some criticism of it being overly sentimental, and perhaps rather fanciful, and there were some histrionics late on that were perhaps a tiny bit out of place. But overall, this movie completely grabbed me from the off, reeled me in, chewed me up a bit then spat me out, as movies should. Absolutely excellent.

4.5

[the samoan lawyer]

Not seen any of the last three, or heard of them actually. Not sure how much Frequencies seems like something I would enjoy, especially seeing as you likened it with Black Mirror, which I found average (although only season 1). I liked Peppermint Candy so Bleak Night probably appeals and I'll give Gook a go too.


Nice reviews as usual Scarlet

[Camo]

I did wonder though, whether there was a nod to previous German regimes, what with the blonde haired victim being at the hands of unspeakable evil. Probably just me over analysing it though.

3

I read a few interviews with the director while looking for the supposed true story (it's definitely not based on anything IMO, if it is it's some really vague connection) and i think you may be giving her too much credit. Doubt there's any deeper meaning to it, think it's just a brutal test of faith/confronting evil film. I liked it a lot because it was so brutal and unrelenting but i also wouldn't recommend it to anyone and i would totally get people hating it.

And yeah the film genuinely put me off chicken in real life for a bit, won't tell that disgusting story again though haha.

[the samoan lawyer]

I read a few interviews with the director while looking for the supposed true story (it's definitely not based on anything IMO, if it is it's some really vague connection) and i think you may be giving her too much credit. Doubt there's any deeper meaning to it, think it's just a brutal test of faith/confronting evil film. I liked it a lot because it was so brutal and unrelenting but i also wouldn't recommend it to anyone and i would totally get people hating it.

And yeah the film genuinely put me off chicken in real life for a bit, won't tell that disgusting story again though haha.


I reckon the fact we are talking about the chicken scene so much will entice people into watching. ;)

[ScarletLion]

I reckon the fact we are talking about the chicken scene so much will entice people into watching. ;)

I think, of the 4 people that read this thread, 3 of them have already seen it

[ScarletLion]

I read a few interviews with the director while looking for the supposed true story (it's definitely not based on anything IMO, if it is it's some really vague connection) and i think you may be giving her too much credit. Doubt there's any deeper meaning to it, think it's just a brutal test of faith/confronting evil film. I liked it a lot because it was so brutal and unrelenting but i also wouldn't recommend it to anyone and i would totally get people hating it.

And yeah the film genuinely put me off chicken in real life for a bit, won't tell that disgusting story again though haha.

You're probably right on the first bit. As for the second bit, I had a chicken caesar wrap earlier and I nearly wretched.

[cricket]

'Small Town Crime' (2018)

http://gonewiththetwins.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/smalltowncrime.jpg

I like John Hawkes, and he was quite good in this dark crime thriller. But it has a weak, weak script and feels like it's probably ripping off a tonne of 1970s crime movies.Starts off quite good fun but just ends up in derivative stock thriller mode.

2.5

I liked it a little more but I definitely agree that it didn't wind up as good as it's very promising start.

[ScarletLion]

'Pickup on South Street' (1953)

https://i.imgur.com/eg2Ii8i.gif

Classic Noir thriller directed by samuel Fuller. The different characters are intoxicating and the lighting is lovely. I couldn't help thinking of the Cohen Brothers being inspired to borrow from the likes of this while making 'The Man who wasn't there'.

The plot is simple yet works. The viewer starts to root for the 'loveable rogues' and the script reminds us of this by telling us things like "a man's got to eat" etc. Although the ending is a little unsatisfying it's a very decent bit of noir. 7.5 out of 10.

[ScarletLion]

'Beau Travail' (1999)

https://i.imgur.com/ntFbUs6.gif

Claire Denis manages to capture a dream like ethereal quality to this film. It's quite odd but at the same time strangely alluring, contemplative and intriguing. There's not much structure to it and we see lots of different stages of a man's life both in the foreign legion and out of it.

Denis Lavant, as well as having some amazing dance moves, is brilliant in the lead role as a jealous sargeant who has his leadership qualities tested. It's not a straightforward film, more a character study but a worthwhile one. The final 30 mins was especially beautiful.

7/10

[the samoan lawyer]

'Pickup on South Street' (1953)

https://i.imgur.com/eg2Ii8i.gif

Classic Noir thriller directed by samuel Fuller. The different characters are intoxicating and the lighting is lovely. I couldn't help thinking of the Cohen Brothers being inspired to borrow from the likes of this while making 'The Man who wasn't there'.

The plot is simple yet works. The viewer starts to root for the 'loveable rogues' and the script reminds us of this by telling us things like "a man's got to eat" etc. Although the ending is a little unsatisfying it's a very decent bit of noir. 7.5 out of 10.


Glad you enjoyed this. From what I've seen of Fuller, he's really impressed me.

[ScarletLion]

Glad you enjoyed this. From what I've seen of Fuller, he's really impressed me.

What else would you recommend by him? I have 'White Dog' to watch at some point.

[the samoan lawyer]

What else would you recommend by him? I have 'White Dog' to watch at some point.


1. Shock Corridor
2. The Steel Helmet
3. The Naked Kiss
4. The Big Red One


They are my favourites other than South Street and White Dog.


Shock Corridor could probably make my all time top 20. Start with it.

[Ms. M]

I think, of the 4 people that read this thread, 3 of them have already seen it
I guess I'm the only one, who hasn't seen it;)

[ScarletLion]

I guess I'm the only one, who hasn't seen it;)

Ha. You should, let me know what you think. What's the film in your avatar by the way?

[Ms. M]

Ha. You should, let me know what you think. What's the film in your avatar by the way?
If I have an opportunity, I will watch for sure.
My avatar is from "The Dressmaker".