Movie Forums Top 100 of the 2010s - Group Watch

[SpelingError]

.88859

For the first time during a MoFo countdown, we're going to be having a Group Watch thread! Here's how this thread will work:

-The host will nominate a film from the 2010s, the participants will have 3 days to watch it, and to state that they watched the film in the thread (make sure your nomination doesn't last over four hours).

-You're not required to review the film. You can if you want to, but simply writing something like "I just watched XX and really enjoyed it" should suffice.

-Afterwards, the host will use a random number generator to pick the next person to nominate a film (provided the person watched your nomination and hasn't nominated a film yet) and the process would repeat.

-This thread will last till the deadline for the preliminary thread (or close to it).

-You can opt-in/opt-out of this thread whenever you want. You're not required to watch every film in this thread just because you watched one film in it.

In short, this is similar to a Hall of Fame, except it requires far less effort.

I'm sure many of us will be voting for some obscure films which not many MoFos have seen, so participating in this thread might be a good way to increase the likelihood of your film making the countdown.

[SpelingError]

Nominations:

Certified Copy (2010, Abbas Kiarostami)
Nominated By: SpelingError

The Dressmaker (2015, Jocelyn Moorhouse)
Nominated By: Citizen Rules

Nymphomaniac: Part 1 (2013, Lars Von Trier)
Nominated By: donniedarko

Still Life (2013, Uberto Pasolini)
Nominated By: mrblond

Clash (2016, Mohamed Diab)
Nominated By: cricket

Who Killed Captain Alex? (2010, Nabwana I.G.G.)
Nominated By: jiraffejustin

Blue Jasmine (2013, Woody Allen)
Nominated By: mistique

Andhadhun (2018, Sriram Raghavan)
Nominated By: WrinkledMind

Searching (2018, Aneesh Chagantry)
Nominated By: gbgoodies

Ernest & Celestine (2012, Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar, and Benjamin Renner)
Nominated By: Miss Vicky

Poetry (2010, Lee Chang-dong)
Nominated By: seanc

The Broken Circle Breakdown (2012, Felix van Groeningen)
Nominated By: Miss Vicky

The Lure (2015, Agnieszka Smoczyńska)
Nominated By: Allaby

Lilting (2014, Hong Khaou)
Nominated By: Takoma11

Calvary (2014, John Michael McDonagh)
Nominated By: seanc

Real Steel (2011, Shawn Levy)
Nominated By: gbgoodies

Capernaum (2018, Nadine Labaki)
Nominated By: cricket

Marshland (2014, Alberto Rodríguez)
Nominated By: WrinkledMind

Better Days (2019, Derek Tsang)
Nominated By: Wyldesyde19

Tikkun (2015, Avishai Sivan)
Nominated By: Takoma11

Cameraperson (2016, Kirsten Johnson)
Nominated By: SpelingError

Thirst Street (2017, Nathan Silver)
Nominated By: crumbsroom

Lady Macbeth (2016, William Oldroyd)
Nominated By: Miss Vicky

Good Manners (2017, Juliana Rojas and Marco Dutra)
Nominated By: Frightened Inmate No. 2

The Burden (2017, Niki Lindroth von Bahr)
Nominated By: Takoma11

Summer 1993 (2017, Carla Simón)
Nominated By: Allaby

Tangerines (2013, Zaza Urushadze)
Nominated By: ScarletLion

On-Gaku: Our Sound (2019, Kenji Iwaisawa)
Nominated By: Torgo

A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness (2015, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy)
Nominated By: SpelingError

[SpelingError]

Nomination #1

88860

Certified Copy (2010, Abbas Kiarostami)

Deadline to Watch It: September 17

[SpelingError]

And of course, let me know if you need a link to it.

[cricket]

Have not been a fan of that director so far but I do like Juliette Binoche. Looking forward to it and awesome idea for a thread!

[SpelingError]

Have not been a fan of that director so far but I do like Juliette Binoche. Looking forward to it and awesome idea for a thread!

I'm an (occasional) fan of him, but this is probably my favorite of his films.

[cricket]

I'm an (occasional) fan of him, but this is probably my favorite of his films.

I believe I've only seen Taste of Cherry and Ten

[Frightened Inmate No. 2]

i doubt i'll get around to rewatching it but certified copy is a masterpiece and will surely be very high on my list. kiarostami is my favorite director and i'd say this is one of his top three films

[Citizen Rules]

Awesome idea SpelingError...I'm impressed!

This has to be one of the best ideas to come along to MoFo in many a blue moon...I like it! and I will participate where I can. I just read about Certified Copy (2010) and it looks like a film the wife and I can watch, good choice. I could use a link with hard subs if you have one handy.

[SpelingError]

Awesome idea SpelingError...I'm impressed!

This has to be one of the best ideas to come along to MoFo in many a blue moon...I like it! and I will participate where I can. I just read about Certified Copy (2010) and it looks like a film the wife and I can watch, good choice. I could use a link with hard subs if you have one handy.

Sent!

Also, thanks!

[Allaby]

Just finished watching Certified Copy.

[MovieMeditation]

Certified Copy is the only Abbas I’ve seen so far but I enjoyed it a whole lot. Good pick for a nom in this.

I don’t think I have time to participate in this unfortunately but a fine idea. :up:

[Allaby]

I've now seen four of Abbas Kiarostami's films. My rankings of his films:

1. Where Is My Friend's House?
2. Taste of Cherry
3. Close-Up
4. Certified Copy

[SpelingError]

I've now seen four of Abbas Kiarostami's films. My rankings of his films:

1. Where Is My Friend's House?
2. Taste of Cherry
3. Close-Up
4. Certified Copy

I've seen those plus Through the Olive Trees and The Wind Will Carry Us. I'd recommend all of them.

[SpelingError]

Certified Copy is the only Abbas I’ve seen so far but I enjoyed it a whole lot. Good pick for a nom in this.

I don’t think I have time to participate in this unfortunately but a fine idea. :up:

I take it you don't wish to be a candidate for hosting the next round then.

[seanc]

Love Kiarastomi and this is a great idea. I will definitely try to get to a rewatch of this the next couple nights.

[donniedarko]

Close-Up is in my top 50 all time, so excited to check this one out

[Citizen Rules]

Certified Copy is the only Abbas I’ve seen so far but I enjoyed it a whole lot. Good pick for a nom in this.

I don’t think I have time to participate in this unfortunately but a fine idea. :up: I think anyone can just pop in at any time and watch the current movie that's up, I don't think we join for the long haul but I should find out for sure... Is that correct SpelingError ?

[SpelingError]

I think anyone can just pop in at any time and watch the current movie that's up, I don't think we join for the long haul but I should find out for sure... Is that correct SpelingError ?

Correct. You can opt-in/opt-out of this thread whenever you want. You're not required to watch every film in this thread just because you watched one film in it.

[MovieMeditation]

I take it you don't wish to be a candidate for hosting the next round then.
(After actually understanding the rules) I’ll be a candidate then :up:

[John-Connor]

CERTIFIED COPY 'Copie conforme' 2010

88869

Interesting subject matter, reminded me at times of Orson Welles ‘Vérités et Mensonges’ F for Fake '73. The acting in multiple languages, very impressive by both of the leads. Tuscany is a magnificent filming location, hope to visit the region soon.

[cricket]

I believe I've only seen Taste of Cherry and Ten

Seen Close Up as well, going to try to watch this one tomorrow

[Takoma11]

I watched Certified Copy pretty recently and it's really strong.

I will say though (I'm sure to the annoyance of people who are fans of it), that I felt like I connected with it more on a technical level than on a personal or ~spiritual~ level, or however you want to distinguish between films that are great and films that are favorites.

[rauldc14]

I won't get to it before the deadline, but Certified Copy is one of the biggest Kiarostami films left for me.

[crumbsroom]

I watched Certified Copy pretty recently and it's really strong.

I will say though (I'm sure to the annoyance of people who are fans of it), that I felt like I connected with it more on a technical level than on a personal or ~spiritual~ level, or however you want to distinguish between films that are great and films that are favorites.


Nah, that sounds about right to me.


This obviously shouldn't dissuade anyone from seeing it. And it's a much friendlier watch than some of his other films. But he's never going to beat Close Up or Where Is The Friends House. Those two are for the ages. Those two alone make him one of the greats of modern(ish) cinema

I'll add my own sacrilege just for fun and say I have never really understood the greatness of Binoche. Like, at all.

[SpelingError]

Btw, do you guys think 4 days is fine, or do you think we could shorten the deadline to 3 days? Just want to give us all enough time to watch the film.

[SpelingError]

Nah, that sounds about right to me.


This obviously shouldn't dissuade anyone from seeing it. And it's a much friendlier watch than some of his other films. But he's never going to beat Close Up or Where Is The Friends House. Those two are for the ages. Those two alone make him one of the greats of modern(ish) cinema

I'll add my own sacrilege just for fun and say I have never really understood the greatness of Binoche. Like, at all.

Out of curiosity, have you seen A Moment of Innocence? It's similar to Close-Up in the sense that it combines narrative and documentary filmmaking, but even though it's less well-known, I greatly prefer it.

[crumbsroom]

Out of curiosity, have you seen A Moment of Innocence? It's similar to Close-Up in the sense that it combines narrative and documentary filmmaking, but even though it's less well-known, I greatly prefer it.


You know what, I'm not sure. I think probably not. I'll keep that in mind

[SpelingError]

Also, it looks like Allaby, MovieMeditation, John-Connor, and Takoma11 are the current candidates for picking the next film, unless I'm missing anyone (generally, if you watched the film recently, you should be fine).

[Takoma11]

Btw, do you guys think 4 days is fine, or do you think we could shorten the deadline to 3 days? Just want to give us all enough time to watch the film.

Here's a thought (just a thought!):

What if you keep the time to 4 days, but when it's someone's turn to nominate a film they nominate a film and also an "honorable mention"?

That way someone with less free time has 4 days to watch the film, but someone with more time (or who has already seen the main nomination) has another one to tackle?

Then again, this is a pretty low-pressure thread because there aren't really obligations beyond participating to the extent you want. If you wanted to shorten the timeline to 3 days people could still use the thread as motivation and/or a place to chat about what they're watching.

[Allaby]

Btw, do you guys think 4 days is fine, or do you think we could shorten the deadline to 3 days? Just want to give us all enough time to watch the film.

3 days is fine with me.

[SpelingError]

Here's a thought (just a thought!):

What if you keep the time to 4 days, but when it's someone's turn to nominate a film they nominate a film and also an "honorable mention"?

That way someone with less free time has 4 days to watch the film, but someone with more time (or who has already seen the main nomination) has another one to tackle?

Then again, this is a pretty low-pressure thread because there aren't really obligations beyond participating to the extent you want. If you wanted to shorten the timeline to 3 days people could still use the thread as motivation and/or a place to chat about what they're watching.

Decent suggestion. For now though, I mainly just want to see if this thread idea gets enough user participation before I start adding more rules onto it. I may keep that in mind later on though.

[Citizen Rules]

88875
Certified Copy (2010)

That scene in the small cafe towards the end of the film was my favorite scene. It's the scene where Juliette Binoche gets to shine the most. I've seen her in a few things and she's usually good. Apparently I've seen William Shimell before, but I didn't remember him. Maybe because his character doesn't seem to have much warmth but then again that's part of the story.

I wasn't much into the story to be honest. I did like the sneak peak at Tuscany. The country side with the gently curving hills covered in silvery gray olive trees that dot the landscape was quite lovely to look at especially with the juxdapostion of those statuesque cypress trees lining the road. That was a thing of beauty, so was Juliette after she gets all dolled up for her husband who promptly doesn't notice her efforts.

It was curious that at one point she goes into a church to remove her bra, is that like an Italian thing. But what was really ironic was that I had noticed how sloppy she looked with her bra straps showing under her top. I guess that was by design.

I can't compare Certified Copy to any of Abbas Kiarostami other films as I haven't seen any others.

Thanks SpelingError

[John-Connor]

^ My fav scene was at the cafe where they drink coffee/cappucino and the older lady says;
'It'd be stupid of us to ruin our lives for an ideal.' great line!

[WrinkledMind]

Also, it looks like Allaby, MovieMeditation, John-Connor, and Takoma11 are the current candidates for picking the next film, unless I'm missing anyone (generally, if you watched the film recently, you should be fine).
Dude!

[WrinkledMind]

Here's a thought (just a thought!):

What if you keep the time to 4 days, but when it's someone's turn to nominate a film they nominate a film and also an "honorable mention"?

That way someone with less free time has 4 days to watch the film, but someone with more time (or who has already seen the main nomination) has another one to tackle?

Then again, this is a pretty low-pressure thread because there aren't really obligations beyond participating to the extent you want. If you wanted to shorten the timeline to 3 days people could still use the thread as motivation and/or a place to chat about what they're watching.


Also availability of the film might be an issue. The movie I want to suggest might not be easily available, so I might present an alternative.

[SpelingError]

Dude!

Did you watch it already? Sorry if I missed your post.

[WrinkledMind]

Did you watch it already? Sorry if I missed your post.
Watching it tonight. But I thought I was part of this thing.
And no need to apologise.

[SpelingError]

I won't write this much for every film in this thread (reminder that nobody here is required to write a review for any of the nominations), but I watched this film for the first time about 2-3 weeks ago and really dug it. It starts out as a conventional drama which seems to be leading to a romance between the two leads, but once you get to the halfway point, the film suddenly turns into magic realism as the two of them start talking like they were a married couple for many years. I really enjoyed this premise as it definitely created a ton of intrigue over where the story was going. The pacing has a nice flow and I felt it was really enjoyable to watch its story unfold. It's the kind of film where I loved spending time with the two leads.

I guess my only nitpick is that I'm not sure what the correlation was between the writer's thesis on the authenticity of art and the premise of the film. Given the Criterion poster for the film (https://www.criterion.com/films/28353-certified-copy), I'm guessing the versions of the two leads in the second half are supposed to be different copies of the leads in the first half, but this still seems to be barely scratching the surface of the ideas brought up in the writer's essay. I suppose it's not a huge deal though. I think my main takeaway with this though is, for a movie which argues that authenticity in art is irrelevant, it's far more unique than most films I've seen.

8/10 (it'll probably make my ballot)

[SpelingError]

Watching it tonight. But I thought I was part of this thing.
And no need to apologise.

Aye gotcha. I was just referring to them as the people who've already watched the film. Glad to have you on board as well though :up:

[Citizen Rules]

^ My fav scene was at the cafe where they drink coffee/cappucino and the older lady says;
'It'd be stupid of us to ruin our lives for an ideal.' great line!Yeah that old lady in the cafe was my favorite character. There was a line earlier on that I was going to remember as I liked what it said...but wouldn't you know it, I forget it.

[cricket]

This was a hell of a day for me to watch Certified Copy. My wife and I were both up extra early this morning and I put it on as she later napped on the recliner. The reason I took off work this week is because today happens to be our wedding anniversary, and of course we honeymooned in Italy. I had no idea going in what it was about but watching it today turned out to be a special treat which moved me to tears.

The 4th movie I've seen from this director, the most recent, and I never would have guessed it. This was much more polished and professional in appearance, not that I don't like a raw style because I do. I was wrapped up from the start even though for many people it wouldn't be about all that much. That is truly a gift, and there's probably a certain amount of good faith involved just to give the go ahead on a project like this. Of course by 2010 the director had a well established reputation so that helps. Loved the two imperfect lead characters, great performances from the actors. This is a very intelligent and insightful film about the ups and downs of relationships, the needs of a woman, and other similar things. It's an incredible moment when the tourist tells the man to put his hand on her shoulder and he does just that. Almost impossible to give a woman what she wants but it's very simple to give her what she needs. All it takes is the want to and this was a great illustration of that. Pretending to be married is where I take it the title comes from, although I did see it as possible that they were indeed married and starting over from scratch. That's not clear and I like that, but I'll say I like to believe it's the latter. Reminded me of Before Sunrise which I dislike. This is the mature version. I'm thankful to have been able to watch this and lucky that it happened today.

[SpelingError]

This was a hell of a day for me to watch Certified Copy. My wife and I were both up extra early this morning and I put it on as she later napped on the recliner. The reason I took off work this week is because today happens to be our wedding anniversary, and of course we honeymooned in Italy. I had no idea going in what it was about but watching it today turned out to be a special treat which moved me to tears.

The 4th movie I've seen from this director, the most recent, and I never would have guessed it. This was much more polished and professional in appearance, not that I don't like a raw style because I do. I was wrapped up from the start even though for many people it wouldn't be about all that much. That is truly a gift, and there's probably a certain amount of good faith involved just to give the go ahead on a project like this. Of course by 2010 the director had a well established reputation so that helps. Loved the two imperfect lead characters, great performances from the actors. This is a very intelligent and insightful film about the ups and downs of relationships, the needs of a woman, and other similar things. It's an incredible moment when the tourist tells the man to put his hand on her shoulder and he does just that. Almost impossible to give a woman what she wants but it's very simple to give her what she needs. All it takes is the want to and this was a great illustration of that. Pretending to be married is where I take it the title comes from, although I did see it as possible that they were indeed married and starting over from scratch. That's not clear and I like that, but I'll say I like to believe it's the latter. Reminded me of Before Sunrise which I dislike. This is the mature version. I'm thankful to have been able to watch this and lucky that it happened today.

Glad you really enjoyed it. Also, happy anniversary!

[Citizen Rules]

...Reminded me of Before Sunrise which I dislike. ...It reminded me of Before Sunrise too. You went to Italy on your honeymoon, you lucky dog!

[SpelingError]

Btw, I decided to make the deadline September 17th as I think three days should be plenty of time.

[Citizen Rules]

Btw, I decided to make the deadline September 17th as I think three days should be plenty of time.Three days is cool.

Just a thought, what if there was no deadline, but just every 3 days there's a different 2010s movie up for us to watch? You could say if someone comes along a week or more from now and watches Certified Copy then their name would still go into the pool for possibly choosing the next movie?

[SpelingError]

Three days is cool.

Just a thought, what if there was no deadline, but just every 3 days there's a different 2010s movie up for us to watch? You could say if someone comes along a week or more from now and watches Certified Copy then their name would still go into the pool for possibly choosing the next movie?

I'll probably stick with the current setup for now, but if this thread remains popular after about a month, I could probably add that rule.

[Citizen Rules]

I'll probably stick with the current setup for now, but if this thread remains popular after about a month, I could probably add that rule.:up:

Can't wait for the next movie and if it's my turn I got a good one picked out🙂

[SpelingError]

:up:

Can't wait for the next movie and if it's my turn I got a good one picked out🙂

I'm guessing your nomination will be an extreme horror film :D

[Citizen Rules]

I'm guessing your nomination will be an extreme horror film :DHa, nope:p

[mrblond]

I saw Certified Copy couple of years ago.
A film full of aromas, also painfully nostalgic at moments. Kind of a walk for the lead characters, at their late mid-age, through the places and memories, trying to catch the feelings of their youth. At least, I felt the film like that.
Juliette Binoche at her best here.
It is definitely a top 100 movie of the 2010's. Unfortunately, may be hard to cover it with this short ballot of 25.

We've traveled by car around Tuscany in 2017 (visiting only the main cities Florence, Siena, Pisa plus the small San Gimignano). This added additional touch to the movie for us.

4 8.0/10

88879

[MovieFan1988]

Ha, nope:p

It must be this movie and it's a 2010 movie too lol :p

https://i.postimg.cc/cJjSrn3c/I-Spit-on-Your-Grave-Remake.jpg

[Citizen Rules]

It must be this movie and it's a 2010 movie too lol :p

https://i.postimg.cc/cJjSrn3c/I-Spit-on-Your-Grave-Remake.jpgThat's what I look like in the morning when I get up earlier and trim the hedges:D

[SpelingError]

Maybe that isn't a horror movie after all and is simply about some creepy looking person trimming their hedges in the morning.

[Citizen Rules]

Maybe that isn't a horror movie after all and is simply about some creepy looking person trimming their hedges in the morning.See I told you it was me!:eek:

[MovieFan1988]

Maybe that isn't a horror movie after all and is simply about some creepy looking person trimming their hedges in the morning.

It's more of a thriller then horror, you should watch it :lol::lol: those hedge clippers in the creepy looking person's hands are used in the movie in a very violent manner ehhh :D

[WrinkledMind]

Finished watching Certified Copy and thoroughly enjoyed it. This was my first Kiarostami movie.
I like how a movie about two people conversing kept me intrigued about their possible relationship, or if there even was any. It was beautifully shot and Binoche is a force of an actress, with her ability to portray even the faintest emotion so clearly.
Thanks SpelingError

[seanc]

This was the perfect first choice for me. It’s a rewatch, but the first came when I first came here and was just starting to get into movies that were never going to show up in my multiplex. It was my first Kiarastomi, and I immediately fell in love with his dialogue. I love how his films play out and lead you along like they are a mystery despite being about simple humanity and relationships. The depth all comes from the characterizations, and it is slways beautiful to watch unfold.

Kiarastomi wasn’t my only discovery here. I had seen Binoche before but this was the first time I sat up and paid attention to her. I think it’s the performance that started to make her one of my favorite actresses, possibly my favorite period.

This was a really cool rewatch. Kiarastomi movies always remind me both how fragile and how strong we are. How much heartbreak life has, but also how much joy. He’s one of the greats.

[gbgoodies]

This was a hell of a day for me to watch Certified Copy. My wife and I were both up extra early this morning and I put it on as she later napped on the recliner. The reason I took off work this week is because today happens to be our wedding anniversary, and of course we honeymooned in Italy. I had no idea going in what it was about but watching it today turned out to be a special treat which moved me to tears.



https://i.pinimg.com/originals/fe/75/95/fe75954c0a2fd7513859f71a34402c26.jpg

[gbgoodies]

Certified Copy started off okay, but everything after they went into the coffee shop and started acting like a married couple felt uncomfortable. They went from being two people who seemed to have just met and could be starting a relationship, to acting like an unhappily married couple. They were so convincing as a married couple who seemed to dislike each other that I started to wonder if they had some previous relationship that I missed.

I can understand why someone might want to pretend to be a married couple, but why would they want to pretend to be fighting? I seem to be in the minority here, but I just didn't get it. :confused:

[gbgoodies]

I wasn't much into the story to be honest. I did like the sneak peak at Tuscany. The country side with the gently curving hills covered in silvery gray olive trees that dot the landscape was quite lovely to look at especially with the juxdapostion of those statuesque cypress trees lining the road. That was a thing of beauty, so was Juliette after she gets all dolled up for her husband who promptly doesn't notice her efforts.


If you liked the Tuscany country side, you might want to check out the movie Under the Tuscan Sun (2003). It's about a woman who buys a rundown villa in Tuscany and fixes it up. (There's more to the story than that, but you'll have to watch the movie to find out the rest.)

[seanc]

Certified Copy started off okay, but everything after they went into the coffee shop and started acting like a married couple felt uncomfortable. They went from being two people who seemed to have just met and could be starting a relationship, to acting like an unhappily married couple. They were so convincing as a married couple who seemed to dislike each other that I started to wonder if they had some previous relationship that I missed.

I can understand why someone might want to pretend to be a married couple, but why would they want to pretend to be fighting? I seem to be in the minority here, but I just didn't get it. :confused:

I really think Kiarastomi is just showing us the ebbs and flows of relationships in a heightened way. It definitely isn’t meant to be as literal as you are taking it. I don’t think the characters are pretending. Kiarastomi is presenting. I think when they are talking as if unfamiliar with each other it represents how a couple feels when they have been away from each other for long periods of time. It’s quite literal here because of his job, but again I think anyone who has been in a relationship can sympathize with feeling distant from a partner emotionally at times. How do you get that spark and connection back? I ultimately think that’s what Certified Copy is driving at in that final third. I absolutely love the scene in the hotel at the end. Where Binoche is talking about remembering every detail of their honeymoon down to the smell. You can really feel her longing in that scene.

[SpelingError]

You guys have about 24 more hours to watch the film. After that, I'll choose the next host. Here are the current candidates to be the next host:

Allaby
MovieMeditation
John-Connor
Takoma11
Citizen Rules
cricket
mrblond
WrinkledMind
seanc
gbgoodies

[Citizen Rules]

If you liked the Tuscany country side, you might want to check out the movie Under the Tuscan Sun (2003). It's about a woman who buys a rundown villa in Tuscany and fixes it up. (There's more to the story than that, but you'll have to watch the movie to find out the rest.)Thanks GBG, I asked the wife if we've seen Under the Tuscan Sun and she said we did, I guess we liked it OK.

[gbgoodies]

I really think Kiarastomi is just showing us the ebbs and flows of relationships in a heightened way. It definitely isn’t meant to be as literal as you are taking it. I don’t think the characters are pretending. Kiarastomi is presenting. I think when they are talking as if unfamiliar with each other it represents how a couple feels when they have been away from each other for long periods of time. It’s quite literal here because of his job, but again I think anyone who has been in a relationship can sympathize with feeling distant from a partner emotionally at times. How do you get that spark and connection back? I ultimately think that’s what Certified Copy is driving at in that final third. I absolutely love the scene in the hotel at the end. Where Binoche is talking about remembering every detail of their honeymoon down to the smell. You can really feel her longing in that scene.


I understand what you're saying. I just didn't see it that way. I guess I just took it too literally, but the more they argued, the less I liked the movie. It just didn't make sense to me why anyone would choose to act like that.

[seanc]

I understand what you're saying. I just didn't see it that way. I guess I just took it too literally, but the more they argued, the less I liked the movie. It just didn't make sense to me why anyone would choose to act like that.

That’s fair. I really like movies where couples argue if the dialogue is good. Think that’s why I love Bergman so much. Guess that might be some insight from nto why I’m divorced. :D.

[SpelingError]

The first round is now over. After using a random number generator, the next person to host is...

Allaby
MovieMeditation
John-Connor
Takoma11
Citizen Rules
cricket
mrblond
WrinkledMind
seanc
gbgoodies

Pick a movie, follow the same format as this post (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=2332645#post2332645), and you should be good :up:

[John-Connor]

https://youtu.be/omoNXtnVt1g

[SpelingError]

He should probably be online soon.

[Citizen Rules]

https://youtu.be/omoNXtnVt1gHey now, I just got up!:cool:

[John-Connor]

Hey now, I just got up!:cool:

Goodmorning! Just jokin, take your time CR, have a Coffee first..

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/10/b2/2b/10b22bdc4b70af9c50c160945d4421de.jpg

[Citizen Rules]

Goodmorning! Just jokin, take your time CR, have a Coffee first..

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/10/b2/2b/10b22bdc4b70af9c50c160945d4421de.jpgI've already downed my morning iced mocha and I'm working on finding a true gem for us all to watch:D

[Citizen Rules]

Working on it at the moment..........stand by

[SpelingError]

Nomination #2

88927

The Dressmaker (2015, Jocelyn Moorhouse)

Deadline to Watch It: September 20

Nominated By: Citizen Rules

[SpelingError]

Also, see me if you need a link.

[SpelingError]

Also, I'll watch it tomorrow, if not today.

[seanc]

Really weird, but maybe not do much, that I watched Dressmaker last night. I knew Citizen liked it and it has been on my radar since it came out. I’m a big Winslet fan.

When I was done watching I said on Letterboxd that this felt like a Coen brothers movie without the great bits. It was definitely going for the quirky surreal style of a great Coen comedy. I thought it lacked the sharp writing and satisfying thematic through line of those films though.

Winslet elevated it, and I wasn’t bored. It just didn’t totally work for me unfortunately.

If my name doesn’t go in the hat because I was a day early that’s totally cool. I will be reading everyone’s comments and I will be ready for the next round. Hope everyone enjoys it more than I did.

[Allaby]

Sounds interesting. I’ll likely watch it tonight.

[SpelingError]

Really weird, but maybe not do much, that I watched Dressmaker last night.
Maybe you read his mind :eek:

[Citizen Rules]

I'll watch The Dressmaker for what will be my third viewing in a day or two. It's an Australian film and I think it has that Australian film vibe to it.

Previously I'd wrote this:
The Dressmaker with it's strange mix of haute couture fashions in a remote Australian outback town in 1951 reminded me of that ecliptic Australian film, The Road Warrior. Not in the subject mater of course, but just in the way the film constructs a fable-folklore type world and in the quirkiness of it's inhabitants. It must be an Australian movie thing as it's also a bit like the Australian film The Dish (2000) The Dressmaker in a way also reminds me of a nom from the 29th HoF The Year My Voice Broke (1987). Australian films often have a unique feel about them.

[Takoma11]

I watched The Dressmaker semirecently. Overall I liked it, but didn't love it.

The positives were definitely the cast and, if you vibe with it, the sense of karma and comeuppance. In addition to Winslet in the lead role, supporting players like Hugo Weaving, Sarah Snook, and Judy Davis are all really strong. I think that the film captures at once the allure and the negatives of a small town. These people could have been happy and functional, but instead bullying and secrets spoil everything, even trickling down to a boy feeling entitled to physically abuse a classmate.

I also really loved the costumes and their role in the plot.

But overall something didn't totally click in the film for me. A turning point was (major spoilers!)her love interest jumping into the grain silo. Just so stupid and while, ugh yes, people do stupid things sometimes when they are in love, it was a frustrating turn of events.

I was also a bit torn on the different revenge that we see throughout the film. I never quite connected with Tilly or the other townspeople in a way that made the different people getting their due as satisfying as it should have been.

For me it's a solid 3.5.

[Miss Vicky]

I watched The Dressmaker in 2018 for the 17th HOF. It was pretty good, but I've got too much on my plate to do a rewatch.

Here's what I wrote about it back then:

http://www.angelfire.com/music6/walteregan/MovieLog/thedressmaker.gif

The Dressmaker (Jocelyn Moorhouse, 2015)
Imdb (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2910904/?ref_=nv_sr_1)

Date Watched: 09/15/18
Cinema or Home: Home
Reason For Watching: 17th MoFo Hall of Fame, nominated by CitizenRules
Rewatch: No.

I must say that when I saw that this film had been nominated, I was not at all excited about it. Just the title was a bit of a turnoff for me and the trailer made it seem as though it would provide little more than some light entertainment.

And for the first part of the film, I thought those initial impressions were going to be proved true. I didn't care much at all for Hugo Weaving's character (and still didn't really by the end of the film) - who felt perhaps a little more caricature than character to me and that was true of many of the other supporting characters. Also I thought Liam Hemsworth's Teddy did little more than to serve as a bit of eye candy (and he isn't even the best looking Hemsworth brother, that one's in a different 17th HOF nom) with little about him to make him feel real.

Thankfully, the lead role is in the far more capable hands of Kate Winslet who infuses her performance with a strong sense of glamour, strength, and vulnerability. I really felt for her struggles to understand her past, cried tears over her losses, and smirked along with her as she exacted her revenge. And it's really this performance that made the film for me. Sure, I laughed at some of the antics of the other characters and liked the bright colors and overall look of the film (though I don't give a flying crap about fashion and haven't worn a dress since my brother's wedding several years ago), but there wasn't a whole lot else here. Still, I had a good time with it and it was a good way to break my two month streak of not being able to finish a movie.

3.5

[Allaby]

I watched The Dressmaker today.

[SpelingError]

I'll be getting to The Dressmaker today. Looking forward to it.

[cricket]

I've seen The Dressmaker so I will skip this round. My wife enjoyed it quite a bit:p

[Citizen Rules]

I've seen The Dressmaker so I will skip this round. My wife enjoyed it quite a bit:pSo did mine!

[SpelingError]

Just finished The Dressmaker. I thought it was fine, but it won't make my ballot.

[SpelingError]

So far, the current candidates for hosting the next round are seanc, Takoma, and Allaby (I didn't count myself and Citizen since we've already went). More of you should join in here as well, even if you only end up staying for a couple rounds.

[Takoma11]

So far, the current candidates for hosting the next round are seanc, Takoma, and Allaby (I didn't count myself and Citizen since we've already went). More of you should join in here as well, even if you only end up staying for a couple rounds.

And Vicky!

[Citizen Rules]

https://theoddapple.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/the-dressmaker-2015-ending-explained.jpg
The Dressmaker (Jocelyn Moorhouse 2015)

Nope it's not a 'chick flick', and nope it's not a western even though IMDB tags it as such. The Dressmaker is an R rated, Australian, dark revenge comedy-drama. Think of it as High Plains Drifter only instead of the cigar smoking man with out a name who's come back to the small town in the middle of nowhere to pay back the shit that happened to him...instead you have Kate Winslet as the mysterious cigarette smoking outsider returned to the small minded, mean spirited outback town that once treated her like shit. She's been away in France and made a ton of money by becoming a top fashion designer. And yeah she gets her licks into that shit ass town one way, then another. If you haven't seen The Dressmaker then you probably have the wrong idea about this film. I'd really like you to watch it, please! and just maybe it will end up on a ballot or two for our upcoming 2010s countdown. Bless the MoFos.

[SpelingError]

And Vicky!

Yeah, her too. Admittedly, it's kind of hard to distinguish between people posting their thoughts on the films here who don't wish to be involved and those who do, so I'll just assume that everyone who posts their thoughts here for now on intend for the former unless told otherwise.

[Miss Vicky]

Yeah, her too. Admittedly, it's kind of hard to distinguish between people posting their thoughts on the films here who don't wish to be involved and those who do, so I'll just assume that everyone who posts their thoughts here for now on intend for the former unless told otherwise.

I do intend to participate sporadically, if movies come up that interest me. Totally up to you as host if you want to count me posting a four year old review as participating though. I'll take no offense if you don't want to include me in the list of possible pickers for the next round.

[SpelingError]

I do intend to participate sporadically, if movies come up that interest me. Totally up to you as host if you want to count me posting a four year old review as participating though. I'll take no offense if you don't want to include me in the list of possible pickers for the next round.

Generally, my idea with this thread is that, even if you've already seen the film, you should still rewatch it (unless you watched it fairly recently), but if you feel the film is still somewhat fresh in your head or that a rewatch wouldn't change your opinion of the film, you should probably be good. So, if you feel that applies to you, I'm cool with including you.

[Miss Vicky]

Generally, my idea with this thread is that, even if you've already seen the film, you should still rewatch it (unless you watched it fairly recently), but if you feel the film is still somewhat fresh in your head or that a rewatch wouldn't change your opinion of the film, you should probably be good. So, if you feel that applies to you, I'm cool with including you.

I think it's still pretty fresh.

[SpelingError]

I think it's still pretty fresh.

Welcome aboard then!

[mrblond]

I started watching The Dressmaker two days ago.
I'm going to post some thoughts later when the Queen funeral ceremony and procession reach to an end.

[WrinkledMind]

Took me two days to finish The Dressmaker, but that was down to my busy schedule, rather than the movie, which is kinda difficult to shove in one particular genre.


And it's usually difficult for any filmmaker to pull off a multi genre story, but for most part it worked here. And rather wonderfully. And primary reason for that is Winslet's and Davis' terrific performances. Funny to also see a male actor just specifically used as beauty prop. I mean what else was Hemsworth's purpose?


This a was a surprise and pleasant one at that. Thanks Citizen Rules

[donniedarko]

A little late, but I did get a chance to check out Certified Copy, and was fairly underwhelmed. While the dialogue did feel fairly authentic and genuine, something about the film and its lead actors was to self-indulged and snooty for me to get into. I much preferred the backyard filming feel of Close-Up from two decades prior. Perhaps on another watch, this would strike more nerves with me, but this time it fell very flat.

Will try to get to The Dressmaker sometime this week

[Citizen Rules]

Took me two days to finish The Dressmaker, but that was down to my busy schedule, rather than the movie, which is kinda difficult to shove in one particular genre.


And it's usually difficult for any filmmaker to pull off a multi genre story, but for most part it worked here. And rather wonderfully. And primary reason for that is Winslet's and Davis' terrific performances. Funny to also see a male actor just specifically used as beauty prop. I mean what else was Hemsworth's purpose?


This a was a surprise and pleasant one at that. Thanks @Citizen Rules (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=84637)Thanks to you for taking the time to watch it:)
I love The Dressmaker of course. I can't wait to see what our next movie is going to be?

[SpelingError]

Current candidates to be the next host:

seanc
Takoma11
Miss Vicky
Allaby
WrinkledMind
donniedarko

You guys have about 24 hours left to watch it, so make sure to watch it if you haven't yet.

[mrblond]

Ugh.... just finished the second half of The Dressmaker (saw the first half two days ago).

I'm.....not sure what is allowed to say here... you know, I just want to be honest...and that's why I say no, no, no...

Anyway, I'll avoid most of the sharp words I've prepared for this.
You know, I've never heard about this movie before and when I saw the poster and the cast, it seemed very promising. I was so enthusiastic.

Well, it turned to be an obvious cartel commission for a two-hour promo video to enrich the portfolio of the talentless Hemsworth, hoping to build from him something like AU-Ryan-Gosling for the crowd. So, the bosses commanded three world-wide famous movie stars to support the initiative.
My Lord, it was a nightmare. Two of my so loved artists, Judy and Hugo, were so miserable in their bad acting here, probably the lowest point in their careers.
But what can one expect under such a poor directing and writing. The good-looking production design, costumes and famed actor names can't save the mediocrity of the filmmakers.

1.5

[beelzebubble]

I will definitely be watching this thread if not all of the movies. Looking forward to your selections.

[Allaby]

When is the next person being selected?

[SpelingError]

When is the next person being selected?

I'll do it now. Just wanted to finish up lunch first.

[SpelingError]

The host of round 3 is...

seanc
Takoma11
Miss Vicky
Allaby
WrinkledMind
donniedarko
mrblond

[donniedarko]

DMd!

I’m finishing up The Dressmaker tonight as well

[mistique]

This is a good idea - I might join.

[SpelingError]

Nomination #3

88994

Nymphommaniac: Part 1 (2013, Lars Von Trier)

Deadline to Watch It: September 23

Nominated By: donniedarko

[Miss Vicky]

I tried watching Nymphomaniac awhile ago and couldn't get through it. I can't promise I'll try again.

[Allaby]

I'm going to watch Nymphomaniac today. It looks wholesome.

[SpelingError]

I generally love Von Trier, so I'll be looking forward to it.

[mrblond]

Just need info. I'm not familiar.
Why Part 1 and 2 are separated?

[SpelingError]

Just need info. I'm not familiar.
Why Part 1 and 2 are separated?

That's what donniedarko sent me. Nymphomaniac: Part 1. Not part 2.

Combined, both films are just over four hours, making them illegible for this thread as a pair (as per the four hour rule in the first post), but since part one is only two hours, it's allowed.

[seanc]

I’m probably going to skip this round, sorry Donnie. I will be keeping up with the thread though and should be in next go.

[cricket]

Seen Nymphomaniac so will skip this round.

[donniedarko]

Just need info. I'm not familiar.
Why Part 1 and 2 are separated?

They were released as two separate volumes, though at the same time

Part I is better though

[donniedarko]

I'll be re-watching and seeing how my views have changed on it.

Currently I'm not even considering it for my list, but Lars Von Trier tends to get better on repeat viewings for me

[Citizen Rules]

I’m probably going to skip this round, sorry Donnie. I will be keeping up with the thread though and should be in next go.Me too.

[SpelingError]

Hopefully, this film won't discourage too many people from participating. Though yeah, I hear it gets pretty graphic with some of the sexual content, so be aware of that if you decide to watch it.

Regardless, I'll get to it tomorrow.

[John Dumbear]

Enjoyed " Nymphomaniac: Part 1". Didn't really care for "Part 2". Maybe I shouldn't have watched them back-to-back. Need to revisit "Part 2", just to be fair.



I find Von Trier very hit and miss. Oddly, there is no middle ground. Either I love it or hate it. Can't really say that with any other director.

[SpelingError]

Enjoyed " Nymphomaniac: Part 1". Didn't really care for "Part 2". Maybe I shouldn't have watched them back-to-back. Need to revisit "Part 2", just to be fair.



I find Von Trier very hit and miss. Oddly, there is no middle ground. Either I love it or hate it. Can't say that any other director.

I don't know when you last watched Part 1, but if it's still fresh in your head, would you like to be added to the pool of pickers for the next round?

[John Dumbear]

I don't know when you last watched Part 1, but if it's still fresh in your head, would you like to be added to the pool of pickers for the next round?


Sure, I'll leap into the pool.

[Allaby]

I watched Nymphomaniac Volume 1 today. I enjoyed it. Out of the 5 Von Trier films I have seen, I would rank this one second. 4

[SpelingError]

I watched Nymphomaniac Volume 1 today. I enjoyed it. Out of the 5 Von Trier films I have seen, I would rank this one second. 4

Out of curiosity, what other ones have you seen?

[donniedarko]

What was your favorite?

[Allaby]

Out of curiosity, what other ones have you seen?

My ranking of the ones I've seen:

1. The House That Jack Built
2. Nymphomaniac volume 1
3. Breaking the Waves
4. Dancer in the Dark
5. The Idiots

[Allaby]

What was your favorite?

The House That Jack Built.

[donniedarko]

The House That Jack Built.

That one I haven't seen, will be sure to before submitting my 2010s list

[John Dumbear]

The House That Jack Built.


Never even heard of this one.

[Allaby]

Never even heard of this one.

It's excellent. Matt Dillon is fantastic as a brilliant serial killer and the film is really well directed. It's a 9/10 from me and likely won't make my ballot, but I hope it can make the final list. Highly recommended.

[WrinkledMind]

As a big fan of The Kingdom series, I have always had time for Lars Von Trier's work, even if it's hit and miss with him at times.
I enjoyed Nymphomaniac Part 1, and could see the subjects it was trying to hit beyond the graphic sex. However, the part two was underwhelming.


I hope people don't skip this just because of the sex.

PS: Melancholia just might make my list. I absolutely love it.

[SpelingError]

I'll be watching after lunch :up:

[mrblond]

I remember the intense buzz when the Nymphomaniac was released. Of course, these things are highly attractive for the masses and they've crowded the cinema halls. Naturally, we've ignored the film then.
Maybe, it is a good time now to see what is it about. I'll try it this evening or tomorrow.

[seanc]

I remember the intense buzz when the Nymphomaniac was released. Of course, these things are highly attractive for the masses and they've crowded the cinema halls. Naturally, we've ignored the film then.
Maybe, it is a good time now to see what is it about. I'll try it this evening or tomorrow.

Are you saying the theaters are crowded for Nymphomaniac?

[mrblond]

Are you saying the theaters are crowded for Nymphomaniac?

Yes, that's what I'm saying, as far as there still are some movie theaters in existence.
As you probably know, the sex and the forbidden games are universal selling machine. Only Indiana Jones can beat these.
I was shocked when one of our friends' mommy (then 61 years old) visited the theater together with all her office colleagues (mostly females). I guess, this was their first visit of a movie theater in 20 years or something.

I call this Emmanuelle (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmanuelle_(film)) syndrome. Do you know this erotic French film from 1974?
They say, it was one of the highest-grossing films in France back then. It was allowed for broad release here not before 1990 and I remember the crowded theaters.
I just wonder, why is it still like this in 2010's since there are so many erotic TV channels, freely broadcasted during the last decades...

[seanc]

Yes, that's what I'm saying, as far as there still are some movie theaters in existence.
As you probably know, the sex and the forbidden games are universal selling machine. Only Indiana Jones can beat these.
I was shocked when one of our friends' mommy (then 61 years old) visited the theater together with all her office colleagues (mostly females). I guess, this was their first visit of a movie theater in 20 years or something.

I call this Emmanuelle (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmanuelle_(film)) syndrome. Do you know this erotic French film from 1974?
They say, it was one of the highest-grossing films in France back then. It was allowed for broad release here not before 1990 and I remember the crowded theaters.
I just wonder, why is it still like this in 2010's since there are so many erotic TV channels, freely broadcasted during the last decades...

I was ready to disagree but it did pretty darn good for a limited independent release .

[donniedarko]

I don't remember anyone flocking the theaters for Nymphomaniac , and I'd say it has very little mainstream recognition.

Sounds more like Fifty Shades of Gray

[SpelingError]

I imagine there's a cap for how well movies like Nymphomaniac tend to do at the box office.

[mistique]

I´ve watched Nymphomaniac part 1.

Still processing it. A bit too graphic for my taste - and there are other Von Tries films I prefer.
My favourite scene was the one with Uma Thurman.

[SpelingError]

Just finished watching Nymphomaniac. I thought it was fine. Very graphic with the sexual content, but I expected that going into it. I'm still processing my thoughts for the film, but for reasons I can't quite put into words yet, Joe was less interesting of a protagonist than those in some other Von Trier films I'm a fan of (Breaking the Waves, Dancer in the Dark, Dogville, and Melancholia). I can handle watching graphic sexual content if I'm able to have a strong enough emotional impact to other parts of the film, but aside from the middle segment with Jerome, I felt rather distant from Joe throughout most of the film. As a result, I'm not sure I'd watch this again, nor am I eager to check out part 2 anytime soon. On the plus side, I think the film definitely adopts a hypnotic feel as it goes on, with the narration and the cuts to stock footage helping to make the graphic imagery easier to stomach (to a degree). Also, the Bach sequence at the end was very well-done, even though I had seen parts to it before. Though yeah, I've enjoyed other Von Trier films quite a bit more than this one.

[mrblond]

Just finished it too.

What to say in addition...I'd say what a waste. I mean, there are clues that this filmmaker has ability to produce something decent instead of wasting time for meaningless projects like this one.
Stellan Skarsgård and his room plus the popping up graphic symbols were the only good things. As a whole, I'd also say, this movie is nothing about nothing.
Aaa ... actually not entirely about nothing. Investigating things more deeply, there are clues that this is probably a project to pump out EU funds. How interesting it gonna be if someone explains to the taxpayers that some of their taxes are given to Trier to masturbate in front of the camera for which he receives applauses at film festivals. To cheat the system and to laugh at the crowd are major motivations for the naughty Lars, that's for sure.
2

[MovieMeditation]

While I did watch the regular versions first, I also attended the press screening for the director’s cut, which is 5 1/2 hours long (we had a 15-20 min break between the two cuts).

Now. For people saying the original cuts are graphic, you have no idea haha :laugh: And that self-abortion scene still haunts me… :eek:

Last time I checked I thought Nymphomaniac was great though. But Trier is a difficult director to love. Actually it’s difficult to hate him too.

Anyway, I’m very much looking forward to his upcoming conclusion of his television series, Riget.

[gbgoodies]

I'm a few days late, but I watched The Dressmaker. This movie was nothing like I expected based on the title. I thought it was going to be a boring period piece about a woman who makes dresses, but while some of that description is accurate, it was not boring at all. It turned out to be an interesting movie with an underlying mystery.

I thought what happened to Teddy just made him look stupid for doing something so reckless, so it made it hard to feel bad about it, but I guess the point of that was to try and show that Tilly was cursed. I liked how her mother, Molly, turned it around and blamed the townspeople for what happened to him.

This movie is not likely to make my list, but, (with the exception of one bloody scene), I liked it, and I'm glad I watched it.

[gbgoodies]

I'm sorry, but I'm going to skip Nymphomaniac because I don't think that there's even a chance that I'd like it. :(

[SpelingError]

Current candidates to be the next host:

John Dumbear
Allaby
WrinkledMind
mistique
mrblond
MovieMeditation

(didn't count myself since I already went)

You guys have a little over 24 hours to watch the film.

[Citizen Rules]

I'm a few days late, but I watched The Dressmaker. This movie was nothing like I expected based on the title. I thought it was going to be a boring period piece about a woman who makes dresses, but while some of that description is accurate, it was not boring at all. It turned out to be an interesting movie with an underlying mystery.

I thought what happened to Teddy just made him look stupid for doing something so reckless, so it made it hard to feel bad about it, but I guess the point of that was to try and show that Tilly was cursed. I liked how her mother, Molly, turned it around and blamed the townspeople for what happened to him.

This movie is not likely to make my list, but, (with the exception of one bloody scene), I liked it, and I'm glad I watched it.Glad to hear you liked The Dressmaker....Good analyzes of why Teddy's character jumped into a grain silo. I had forgot about the whole 'Tilly is cursed' part but like I said earlier Tilly is like a force sent to the town to punish them for their sins, much in the same way Clint Eastwood in High Plains Drifter is a force arrived in the town that had lynched him and brings retribution. Both Clint and Tilly are like avenging angels. Tt's a pity some people see the couture clothes and here the name the dressmaker and think it's some silly film about women clothes designer because it's about a lot more than just pretty clothes.

[Takoma11]

I'm sorry, but I'm going to skip Nymphomaniac because I don't think that there's even a chance that I'd like it. :(

Yeah. Like, part of me wants to honor the thread and respect all the nominations. But is a Von Trier movie about a sex addict likely to be something I like, much less crack the top 25 list I've got going?

Separately: do I have the emotional reserves necessary right now to watch a Von Trier movie about a sex addict?

[SpelingError]

Keep in mind that nobody here is required to watch every film nominated in this thread. If you have little interest to see some of the nominations, you're 100% allowed to skip them.

[Takoma11]

Keep in mind that nobody here is required to watch every film nominated in this thread. If you have little interest to see some of the nominations, you're 100% allowed to skip them.

Oh, absolutely. It's just that I think that generally it's respectful to watch the movies people put forward. I'm not feeling pressured by you all, just pressured by how I'd want to approach this thread. But I don't think that Nymphomaniac is in the cards for me right now.

[Little Ash]

I was ready to disagree but it did pretty darn good for a limited independent release .

Just wondering, what numbers are you seeing?

Going off of boxoffice mojo (I don't follow box office numbers, so if you have a source you trust more for these type of things..)

Nymphomaniac Vol. 1 (2013)
US: $785,896
Worldwide: $13.5 million
https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt1937390/?ref_=bo_se_r_1

Compared to Melancholia released 2 years earlier
Melancholia (2011)
US: $3 million
Worldwide: $17 million
https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt1527186/?ref_=bo_se_r_1

I guess it did okay worldwide, but living in the US, I can't say any movie that grossed less than $1 million at the box office as one that caused people to crowd to the multiplexes (if it even played there. I live in a city, so it played at an independent theater).

[SpelingError]

Oh, absolutely. It's just that I think that generally it's respectful to watch the movies people put forward. I'm not feeling pressured by you all, just pressured by how I'd want to approach this thread. But I don't think that Nymphomaniac is in the cards for me right now.

That's understandable. My goal is to watch every film nominated in this thread, if I'm able to.

With extreme films like Nymphomaniac, I think it's understandable for people to skip them since those kinds of films generally have a limited target audience.

Regardless, though I found it to be a lesser-tier Von Trier film, I still found it to be a worthy nomination for this thread and I'm glad I finally watched it.

[SpelingError]

The host of round 4 is...

John Dumbear
Allaby
WrinkledMind
mistique
mrblond
MovieMeditation

[Citizen Rules]

incoming movie:)

[cricket]

What have you got mrblond?

https://i.imgur.com/CbdxKT1.gif

[SpelingError]

Nomination #4

89038

Still Life (2013, Uberto Pasolini)

Deadline to Watch It: September 26

Nominated By: mrblond

[seanc]

Looking forward to another I haven’t seen. I will watch it tonight.

[Miss Vicky]

Looks like it might be good and it’s on Kanopy so I may give it a shot.

[Allaby]

Haven’t seen it. Looks interesting.

[cricket]

Haven't seen it, will watch

[mistique]

Never heard of it before - don´t think I´ve got anywhere to watch it.

[seanc]

This one is on Tubi, just an fyi to everyone

[Takoma11]

Regardless, though I found it to be a lesser-tier Von Trier film, I still found it to be a worthy nomination for this thread and I'm glad I finally watched it.

I've liked the Von Trier films I've seen. But he seems to have a certain contempt for these demented women he puts at the center of his movies. Thinking about that applied to a woman who is a sex addict? I'm just imagining a lot of degradation, possibly sexual assault, and it's just not something I want to process right now. I'm sure I'll see it at some point. I quite like the cast.

[SpelingError]

I'll watch it tomorrow, btw.

[Miss Vicky]

I watched Still Life.

https://www.angelfire.com/music6/walteregan/2010s/stilllife.gif

Still Life (Uberto Pasolini, 2013)

Still Life is the tale of a meticulous man whose job it is to find the family and friends of those who have died alone, while he himself is lacking in loved ones. When he loses his job due to budget cuts and downsizing, he throws himself into one last case and, while endeavoring to understand the man who has died, he discovers more about himself.

I'd never even heard of this movie until it showed up in the 2010s Group Watch thread and, except for a single sentence describing it on IMDb, I had no idea what to expect. What I got was a very quiet meditation on loss, forgiveness, and the importance of actually living your life. It's never showy or bombastic in any way and it never feels preachy or like it takes its sentimentality to any extreme. It features a great central performance from Eddie Marsan (an impressive actor who I don't think I've seen before), excellent use of color and light, and a beautiful and effective soundtrack. A very good movie that unfortunately probably won't get my vote.

4

[Citizen Rules]

I hope to watch Still Life in a day or two.

[gbgoodies]

I might not be able to watch Still Life within the three days deadline, but I'll try to watch it this week.

[mrblond]

...
It features a great central performance from Eddie Marsan (an impressive actor who I don't think I've seen before), excellent use of color and light, and a beautiful and effective soundtrack.
...


I'm glad you've liked the movie.

Eddie Marsan has been noticed by the big filmmakers long before this film. He's been casted in productions by Scorsese, Spielberg, Guy Ritchie to mention a few.
Another important and cult role of his is in Happy-Go-Lucky (2008).

[John-Connor]

Eddie Marsan was great in Ray Donovan (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2249007/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0) (TV series).

[Allaby]

I watched Still Life today. I liked it, but it won't make my ballot. It's a well made film anchored by an excellent performance from Eddie Marsan. For me, it is a 3.5.

[seanc]

I enjoyed Still Life and am very glad it was put forth for this because almost guaranteed I wouldn’t have seen it otherwise. I don’t have a whole lot to say about it unfortunately. It’s pretty straightforward but definitely works really well on a thematic level, so it’s a nice meditation on mortality and loneliness. Maybe not recommended by yourself on a Sat night with a pint of Ben And Jerrys. Not that I have any reference for that scenario. 😀

I was excited when I saw Marsan on the poster. Recognize him from some Leigh films. He’s a very interesting character actor. He carries this whole movie really well. It’s his show and I was never bored or annoyed.

One minor misstep I wanted to point out. The film has multiple funerals and there is a point when a character, who is quite a doofus, tells our protagonist, who is the opposite of a doofus, that funerals aren’t for the dead that they are ultimately for the living. Our protagonists response is “I never thought of it like that”. Never thought of it like that? It’s the only way to think about it. Kind of a silly interaction in a movie that doesn’t really have missteps with its characters.

Good choice, glad to have seen it.

[SpelingError]

Just finished Still Life. I generally dig movies about loneliness and this one was no exception. Granted, I'd probably put it in the category of films I enjoyed thinking about later more than actually watching, but I still enjoyed it to a degree and especially liked how John's state of loneliness was similar to that of the deceased people whose cases he worked on. Perhaps why John enjoyed his job was that 'helping out' people in the same boat as him was a major part of it. I also appreciated the final act and the great closing shot. Stylistically speaking, this isn't the kind of film I could see myself watching again, nor do I think it'll make my ballot, but I still had a good time with it and I'm glad it was nominated as I might not have ever heard of it otherwise.

[cricket]

I enjoyed Still Life and am very glad it was put forth for this because almost guaranteed I wouldn’t have seen it otherwise. I don’t have a whole lot to say about it unfortunately. It’s pretty straightforward but definitely works really well on a thematic level, so it’s a nice meditation on mortality and loneliness. Maybe not recommended by yourself on a Sat night with a pint of Ben And Jerrys. Not that I have any reference for that scenario. 😀

I was excited when I saw Marsan on the poster. Recognize him from some Leigh films. He’s a very interesting character actor. He carries this whole movie really well. It’s his show and I was never bored or annoyed.

One minor misstep I wanted to point out. The film has multiple funerals and there is a point when a character, who is quite a doofus, tells our protagonist, who is the opposite of a doofus, that funerals aren’t for the dead that they are ultimately for the living. Our protagonists response is “I never thought of it like that”. Never thought of it like that? It’s the only way to think about it. Kind of a silly interaction in a movie that doesn’t really have missteps with its characters.

Good choice, glad to have seen it.

I saw that as being the whole point of the movie.

[seanc]

I saw that as being the whole point of the movie.

I guess I just felt that philosophy was coming from the wrong person. John doesn’t seem like the kind of person who would think the preservation of memory does the dead any good. I don’t know. Might be projecting my own feelings onto him.

[cricket]

I guess I just felt that philosophy was coming from the wrong person. John doesn’t seem like the kind of person who would think the preservation of memory does the dead any good. I don’t know. Might be projecting my own feelings onto him.

You could be right, just not how I saw it

[seanc]

You could be right, just not how I saw it

How did you see it? Because I was thinking later maybe I read it wrong and he just said that but didn’t really feel that way. Maybe he was being sarcastic?

[Miss Vicky]

I guess I just felt that philosophy was coming from the wrong person. John doesn’t seem like the kind of person who would think the preservation of memory does the dead any good. I don’t know. Might be projecting my own feelings onto him.

I think that it coming from him is very fitting. He put quite a bit of effort into getting an idea of who each person was and trying to represent them well in the funeral services he arranged, even if he was the only one in attendance. I think the photo album he kept of all those he'd served in his job and the lengths he went to find Billy Stoke's daughter and present her with the mementos from her father speak very much of his take on the preservation of memory.

[seanc]

I think that it coming from him is very fitting. He put quite a bit of effort into getting an idea of who each person was and trying to represent them well in the funeral services he arranged, even if he was the only one in attendance. I think the photo album he kept of all those he'd served in his job and the lengths he went to find Billy Stoke's daughter and present her with the mementos from her father speak very much of his take on the preservation of memory.

I agree, but I think he is doing that for the people who are still living, not for the dead. Like I said that could be my bringing own mentality to it though. As I’m working through it I am realizing that may be more of a Christian perspective.

[cricket]

Still Life (2013)

3.5

https://www.eyeforfilm.co.uk/images/newsite/still-life-a_600.jpg

Had never heard of this before, kept expecting some dark comedy to kick in because it says drama/comedy when I Google it. Obviously that never happened. My first impression is that John is very noble and thorough with his job. Then I noticed how conservative he was, with the way he eats and how he waits for a walk signal to cross the street. And then I noticed that he has something in common with the deceased who he's trying to help, and I see that as the heart of the movie. He subtly develops different ways of doing things, including how he crosses the street. Eddie Marsan is an interesting actor, and one I always think of as somewhat awkward. That awkwardness suits the character perfectly as awkward people are more likely to be lonely. I could see the first part of the ending coming a mile away, not a bad thing since it's not a thriller. It was just fitting. The last part of the ending was a great final touch. A very good movie, it was moving but not devastatingly so. I'm glad to have watched it but I believe it will fade from my memory before long.

[Miss Vicky]

I agree, but I think he is doing that for the people who are still living, not for the dead. Like I said that could be my bringing own mentality to it though. As I’m working through it I am realizing that may be more of a Christian perspective.

I don't know, I'm an atheist and I firmly believe that funerals are for the living, but I feel like it's a pretty common sentiment to think they're for the dead.

[cricket]

I agree, but I think he is doing that for the people who are still living, not for the dead. Like I said that could be my bringing own mentality to it though. As I’m working through it I am realizing that may be more of a Christian perspective.

I thought he was completely doing everything for the deceased

[seanc]

I thought he was completely doing everything for the deceased

I guess I see that the more I talk to you guys. Watching it I just thought the recruiting people to go the funeral, the photo scrapbook. All that just felt like something for those left behind.

[cricket]

I guess I see that the more I talk to you guys. Watching it I just thought the recruiting people to go the funeral, the photo scrapbook. All that just felt like something for those left behind.

I think what you're seeing is the ideal for reality.

[SpelingError]

I remember reading the funeral line as a consequence to John's loneliness in the film. Since he often had difficulty with connecting to the families of the deceased and was regularly the only person who organized/attended their funerals, he likely believed funerals were for the dead due to his twisted perspective on them. Given what we saw of him in the film, he was likely under the impression that families generally don't care for their loved ones.

[seanc]

I think what you're seeing is the ideal for reality.

So I had about an hour just sitting at the airport thinking about this conversation. Ultimately I think you guys are right. When I think about the amount of conversations I have had with people who care where and how they ate buried, who they want at their funeral. I’m always baffled by this thinking, but you guys are right lots of people think this way. I’m probably just butt hurt because I think like the doofus.

[cricket]

So I had about an hour just sitting at the airport thinking about this conversation. Ultimately I think you guys are right. When I think about the amount of conversations I have had with people who care where and how they ate buried, who they want at their funeral. I’m always baffled by this thinking, but you guys are right lots of people think this way. I’m probably just butt hurt because I think like the doofus.

I believe you're thinking the more healthy way but the guy in the movie was a shade below normal.

Did anyone else notice the way he talked? Very slow all the time.

[SpelingError]

Current candidates to be the next host:

Miss Vicky
Allaby
seanc
cricket

You guys have about 24 hours left to watch the film.

[WrinkledMind]

Well that was depressing.
A brilliant performance from Marsan. Some of the framing of shots was utterly beautiful. And the music was really good.

I thought the romance for the lead was a bit forced, and but I can see why it was done. The ending was nicely done.


It was nice study of loneliness, with an unexpected punch in the gut.


Thanks for the recommendation mrblond

[mrblond]

I'm glad most of you express positive feelings about the movie Still Life. After all, hope some going to reconsider it for the ballot.

A classic perfect story about the small man, trampled in a decaying society. In this case, portrayed as kind of the last man standing to save the humanity, to save the civilization. A real knight. The scenes with him, going with his bag around the empty streets were breathtaking. What a symbol. And everything is filmed so simple and effortless, a masterful work.

A Cinema Textbook, from the very start to the striking final scene. If any movie of the 2010's deserves the max rate of five stars, this is it.
Amazing directing and script - Twice Bravo Mr. Pasolini! Amazing performance - Bravo Mr. Marsan!

I discovered Still Life about three years ago and saw it 3-4 times back then.
In addition, I watched it two more times during the last days.

5
89055

[Takoma11]

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwp.production.patheos.com%2Fblogs%2F1morefilmblog%2Ffiles%2F2015%2F01%2FstillLife-2.jpg&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=c102c284bee588ce41bbbbeca9348a2d62e6847b2ab4f49e7bde09a9c82e6578&ipo=images

Still Life, 2013

John (Eddie Marsan) works in a human services department, tracking down the families of unclaimed deceased people and making final arrangements when those families cannot be found. When an impending merger and budget cuts threaten his job, John takes on one last case. As John works through the details of the dead man's life---including tracking down his estranged daughter, Kelly (Joanne Froggatt)--he begins to open himself up more to the world around him.

Why do we help other people? Two days before Christmas, I was driving to my family's home when I saw the aftermath of a recent car accident. On the side of the road, a woman was laying in a ditch. Other cars were just driving by, but I had to stop. I had to stop because I couldn't help thinking what it would be like if it were me in that ditch and all these indifferent people just passed me by.

John does his job with a passion and precision because he identifies with the dead. Alone, with no family of his own and only casual acquaintances, John is fighting a battle for others that he knows he will not be able to fight for himself when the time comes: the battle to be remembered and acknowledged. I particularly liked the sequence where John wrote a eulogy for a woman who died alone. To John, it seems important to show that even solitary lives can be celebrated.

It is in his final task, trying to track down the loved ones of a man who honestly doesn't sound like he was always very pleasant to be around, that John begins to make connections with others. John is presented as being very socially isolated. His mannerisms and habits seem to hint at something like Asperger's or just extreme social awkwardness. But as he interacts with the different acquaintances of the dead man, we see John begin to accept things from them. A fish. A beer. And, finally, a social invitation.

John's internal journey is mirrored in the world around him. In the early sequences, the city seems borderline abandoned. The colors are cold and drained. But as the movie goes on, there are more people around, and the colors become more lush.

Marsan's performance is sympathetic and engaging. He resists the urge to make John overly twitchy or robotic, as sometimes happens when actors try to portray such a character.

I was very torn on the final act of the film. It seems a bit contrived that John gets asked out for, like, probably the first time in 10 years, and the next day he gets hit by a bus. I understand the impact of seeing the full funeral that John orchestrated with his different interviews, contrasting with John's totally empty service. It's definitely a gut-punch, I'm just not totally sure that it's earned. It partly doesn't make sense to me. John clearly made an impression on a lot of people, and they didn't know he'd died? Or ask about him? The mechanics of this bothered me.

A very sweet film, and a chance to post one of my favorite quotes: "But the effect of her being on those around her was incalculably diffusive: for the growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts; and that things are not so ill with you and me as they might have been, is half owing to the number who lived faithfully a hidden life, and rest in unvisited tombs.”

4

[gbgoodies]

Still Life (2013)

This is a very slow and depressing movie. The idea that the man died with nobody caring about him, and a complete stranger has to piece together his whole life to try to find people to go to his funeral, is heartbreaking. And then when we think it can't get any more depressing, there's one last turn at the end. After all the hard work John did to find people to go to strangers' funerals, there's nobody left to do the same for him.
This is a thought-provoking movie, but it's not a movie that I would want to watch again.

[SpelingError]

The next host is...

Miss Vicky
Allaby
seanc
cricket
WrinkledMind
Takoma11
gbgoodies

[John Dumbear]

To be honest, didn't make it to the end. Basically, I got bored. Started out with a clever premise that held my attention, for awhile. Not a bad film at all, just not to my liking. After reading the spoilers, glad I bailed out. Feel the depression would have been to much.

Meh/10

[cricket]

Sent my pick in, I'll have a link if anyone needs one.

[SpelingError]

Nomination #5

89064

Clash (2016, Mohamed Diab)

Deadline to Watch It: September 29

Nominated By: cricket

[SpelingError]

I'll watch it tomorrow.

[Allaby]

That sounds interesting. I'll likely watch it tomorrow.

[cricket]

For those unfamiliar with the movie, it's a thriller set amid real political turmoil. One main thing I took from it is something I've thought about myself for a long time. There is a lot of hatred in the world between people who don't even know each other, who under different circumstances could coexist seamlessly.

[jiraffejustin]

Great film. One of those that feel like my find, as a search for Egyptian films led me through Chahine and on further digging I found this little modern gem. I shared it with cricket during one of the games we played, and thankfully he liked it a good bit too. He's doing a better job than I am of getting the word out on it. It's a super tense movie that takes place in the back of a police van during some major political unrest in the Middle East. The film does a great job of capturing the sweaty feeling in the fan, the discomfort on full display. It's a great no-frills film.

[Miss Vicky]

I’ll try to get it watched but I can’t make any promises since I’ll be working and short on time.

[cricket]

Great film. One of those that feel like my find, as a search for Egyptian films led me through Chahine and on further digging I found this little modern gem. I shared it with cricket during one of the games we played, and thankfully he liked it a good bit too. He's doing a better job than I am of getting the word out on it. It's a super tense movie that takes place in the back of a police van during some major political unrest in the Middle East. The film does a great job of capturing the sweaty feeling in the fan, the discomfort on full display. It's a great no-frills film.

Never heard of it before you recommended it!

[gbgoodies]

Nomination #5

89064

Clash (2016, Mohamed Diab)

Deadline to Watch It: September 29

Nominated By: cricket


I have a very long watchlist for this countdown, so I'm trying to watch the movies that have the best chance of making my list first. This doesn't sound like my type of movie, so I probably won't watch it this week, but I might watch it before submitting my list.

[Allaby]

Sent my pick in, I'll have a link if anyone needs one.

I'll take the link if you want to send it to me.

[Miss Vicky]

Well, I watched it.

https://www.angelfire.com/music6/walteregan/2010s/clash.gif

Clash (Eshtebak) (Mohamed Diab, 2016)

I'm not really sure how to feel about this film. It focuses on a group of people arrested during the protests and violence that erupted after the ousting of President Morsi in Egypt. It takes place entirely inside of a police truck where people from both sides of the conflict, as well as people from neither side, are trapped together. It is packed with tension, chaos, and claustrophobia. It shows how easily people let go of their humanity and see only an enemy in another person and how much they allow themselves to be blinded by their political and religious ideals. But it also shows some moments where the subjects put aside those conflicts and treat each other as equals.

But those more peaceful moments are all too fleeting and the tension and violence are relentless and all too real. It's an important story and its lessons can be applied to conflicts here in our own lives, but as a film it's just... a lot to take in. That said, I have no regrets about watching it but it is not something I ever wish to see again.

3.5

And now I think I'll find something a little more cheery to watch before I go to bed.

[seanc]

Sounds like I need to make time for this one tonight. It sounds pretty great from MV’s review. I will take a link and be a cheap bastard. :)

[SpelingError]

Sounds like I need to make time for this one tonight. It sounds pretty great from MV’s review. I will take a link and be a cheap bastard. :)

Sent!

[Allaby]

I watched Clash today. I thought it was good, but not great, a 7/10 from me.

[SpelingError]

Just finished watching Clash, and I really dug it. In spite of having so many characters in such a confined setting, it remained easy to follow and juggled focus between all of them relatively well. I didn't think the film focused too much attention on a specific person, nor did I think it focused too little attention on another (I'm curious how I'd respond to the film if it had several less characters though). I also think the film maintained a good atmosphere of claustrophobia; shooting everything, including the action, from the perspective of inside the truck worked really well at making you feel just as trapped as the characters were. Finally, the film is also coupled with a compelling anti-war message since the various rioters could potentially get along with each other just fine in the right setting, as we see from the people in the van throughout the film. Overall, just a very well-done film. I don't know if it'll make my ballot, but I might consider it in the long run. Aside from my nomination, it's my favorite film I've seen in this thread so far.

[seanc]

Not going to get to Clash in time but the reviews have me really wanting to see it so I will definitely check it out before the countdown.

[SpelingError]

Current candidates to host the next round:

jiraffejustin
Miss Vicky
Alllaby

You guys have about 24 hours left to watch the film.

[WrinkledMind]

Watched it last night. Could easily have been a play. Has that old school theatre thing to it.


It was a smart way to show this subject. I just wish it had less shouting, and more quieter interactions amongst its subjects. Those moments were little. We also don't dig deeper into the people's lives.


It was filmed exceptionally well, considering much of it unfolds inside the van. You do feel a sense of claustrophobia after a while. I also liked the few metaphors it put out. Like conflicts on the inside, etc. Overall it gives us a nice peek into Egyptian culture and dynamics. This being my only second Egyptian feature, after watching the series Paranormal.


In terms of the acting Nelly Karim was the pick for me.
Thanks for the recommendation cricket

[SpelingError]

The next host is...

jiraffejustin
Miss Vicky
Alllaby
WrinkledMind

[mrblond]

Unfortunately, I couldn't watch Clash these days. I continue trying to find it.

[SpelingError]

Unfortunately, I couldn't watch Clash these days. I continue trying to find it.

Let me know if you need a link to it.

[Takoma11]

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent.internetvideoarchive.com%2Fcontent%2Fhdphotos%2F11285%2F011285%2F011285_128 0x720_364178_085.jpg&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=f50879261fb5947b0c8973b1a9f8f2e4a01b343383804ef8eb70f6d4c9dac80f&ipo=images

Clash, 2016

During the heated political protests in Egypt in 2012/2013, two journalists are thrown into the back of a military detention truck. Many other protesters, both Muslim Brotherhood or on the side of the army, soon join them. As the group endures sweltering heat and hostility from within and without the truck, a tentative collaboration forms between the opposing factions with a common humanity building fragile threads between the prisoners.

I'm absolutely a sucker for a single-location film, and while that's not strictly what this is (the police truck moves from location to location several times during the film), the sense of claustrophobia is strongly evoked by keeping the camera confined to the interior of the truck.

The performances are all good, and the characters feel very lived in. Nilli Karim is a standout as a nurse who is trapped in the truck with her husband and her teenage child. Her story parallels a man who is in the truck with his teenage daughter, Aisha.

There are a lot of movies where ostensible enemies become allies in a fight for survival. Something that I appreciated about this film was the way that it acknowledged that the tentative peace that comes from such a situation is, at best, temporary. The people in the truck set aside their differences when pushed tot he bottom of the hierarchy of needs, but when it comes time to get rescued, each side is suddenly back to shouting their slogans. Unfortunately for them, the mob mentality around them is entirely "us or them," and the nuance of a truck full of different ideologies doesn't translate.

I think that the movie is at its best when it gives us little moments of connection between the characters. I particularly liked a scene where Karim's character cares for a man who has cut his mouth by carrying a razor blade in it. As he reveals his motivation for being at the protest, something not actually political, it provides a surprising point of connection with another young man in the truck.

I did find myself flagging a bit toward the end. I kind of wish that the cast had been a little smaller. There were a lot of characters to keep track of and political affiliations to follow. In a weird way it's a tribute to the film that I was getting antsy in the last 30 minutes. I was ready to be out of that van and I was just watching from the safety of my living room!

Not a film whose title I'd ever heard of, and I'm glad I got a chance to watch it.

4

[SpelingError]

Hopefully, jiraffejustin will be back online soon. I sent him a message the other day.

[jiraffejustin]

Sorry for the tardiness. I sent in my choice. It's an offbeat choice, for sure, but I genuinely love it. There's more heart and love put into this film than films that cost a billion dollars to make. It's action-packed, it's funny, and if you love filmmakers that love making films, then you'll find a way to enjoy this film.

[SpelingError]

Nomination #6

89133

Who Killed Captain Alex? (2010, Nabwana I.G.G.)

Deadline to Watch It: October 3

Nominated By: jiraffejustin

[SpelingError]

It's on YouTube, btw:

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

[Miss Vicky]

Just watched the trailer and it.... uh... looks, interesting? I guess. WTF?

I don't go back to work until Monday so I'll try to fit it in.

[SpelingError]

I'll probably get to it tomorrow. I'm curious how I'll respond to it (I know little to nothing about the film).

[Allaby]

I might watch it tonight after work or tomorrow before work.

[jiraffejustin]

Hopefully y'all find some enjoyment from it. It really is a joyful film that's all about having a good time. It's a low-end candidate for my list, if it makes it, it'd be in the 20s, but would have no problem clearing a top 100 list.

[mistique]

Since it´s only one hour long, I might watch it tonight.

[Miss Vicky]

Well, that was a big miss.

https://www.angelfire.com/music6/walteregan/2010s/captainalex.gif

Who Killed Captain Alex? (Nabwana I.G.G., 2010)

If they gave awards to movies with the most useless and irritating narration, Who Killed Captain Alex? would be a big contender. If this thing had a plot, I missed it because of the distracting exclamations from the narrator - some of which were not even translated in the subtitles so it amounted to nothing but noise. Not that the parts that could be understood contributed anything positive to the experience. The constant barrage of bullshit like "What?" and "Huh huh hey hey!" left me wondering if they took inspiration from rapper Lil Jon and also left me just wishing for it to end. It felt like a bizarre hybrid of the song "Yeah" and a terrible rip-off of Mystery Science Theater with the net result of making the film's one hour runtime feel like five.

I fully understand that this movie was made on a not-even shoe string budget. I could probably have forgiven the shitty acting, terrible effects, terrible cinematography, and terrible writing and enjoyed this on a cheese level, but not with that irritating running commentary.

1

[Allaby]

I watched Who Killed Captain Alex. It was amusing in parts, but won't make my ballot.

[ApexPredator]

Wa-wa-wa-wa-action!

Drop the cookie now!

Who Killed Captain Alex is not a good film in a lot of ways and yet...it manages to be an enjoyable one all the same. Much like Miami Connection and the Room (minus the Guerrero Street story), there's an innocence to Alex that compels you to keep watching even after the quality deteriorates. VJ Emmie is not someone that everyone is going to gravitate towards, but his fast and loose commentary keeps you on your toes and adds further entertainment value.

It's not gonna make my list, but if it does make someone's, then that'll be a win right there.

[mistique]

I watched the first half of the movie yesterday - won´t get a chance to watch more, before tomorrow.

Most of the time I don´t get what´s going on. But at least I can feel that the people making it had fun - and I am shocked to see it got 7,7 million views on youtube.

[SpelingError]

I watched the first half of the movie yesterday - won´t get a chance to watch more, before tomorrow.

Most of the time I don´t get what´s going on. But at least I can feel that the people making it had fun - and I am shocked to see it got 7,7 million views on youtube.

Once you finish, be sure to let me know so I can add you to the pool of candidates for the next round.

[Takoma11]

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.americangenrefilm.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2Fwhokilled2.jpg&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=d0b305935e58546e6b2c7aeeebbf326381bc2cf624a09ee2c2979ce64eefb013&ipo=images

Who Killed Captain Alex?, 2010

Captain Alex (Kakule William) is spearheading an effort to take out a criminal group called the Tiger Mafia. When the mafia leader's brother is killed, they strike back at the authorities and the bloodshed continues to escalate.

What an absolute blast.

There's something very engaging about movies that are made with genuine enthusiasm. Sometimes, of course, movies that are written-directed-starring-etc can just turn into hollow imitations of whatever Tarantino or horror classic floated the filmmaker's boat. Here, though, there's a joy to the proceedings that makes it much more than just shallow playacting.

I remember this movie making a splash when it first came out, and I saw lots of stills or GIFs mocking the special effects. Honestly, I didn't mind them. There's a genuine charm to the film knowing that it was made on less than a shoestring budget and by a guy on a computer he cobbled together.

I think that what makes the movie work is that the tone remains entirely consistent throughout. This is a group of friends making a movie for themselves and their community. The acting, action, and camera work is all pretty even, so once you settle into it, you're good. It also never veers into the kind of content---serious torture or sexual assault--that can sour this kind of "for fun" low budget film. There's a real marked difference between what this movie is doing and what's happening in a lot of the films we're currently watching in the Hall of Infamy.

And while this might be a divisive opinion, I liked the voice over commentary. Yes, sometimes it's fart jokes. But I laughed more often than not, especially at lines like "Save me the head, like Predator" or, as the camera looks over a sewage flooded courtyard "I love it. Pearl of Africa". Or, during the tepid sequence where a captured woman is tortured (they throw water on her, then throw the bucket at her!), "They caught her watching Nigerian films." It felt like the kind of commentary you'd get in a live-MC'd event.

The movie is certainly helped by its brisk run time. I'm not sure that it would retain its charm after something like 90 minutes, but 68 minutes? Absolutely. I'm not sure I'd watch it again on my own, but I'm really glad I checked it out.

3.5

[crumbsroom]

I really need to see Captain Alex one of these days.

[SpelingError]

Just finished watching Who Killed Captain Alex?, and it was a real blast. Not sure I've ever seen anything like it before. Yes, it's pretty much a no-budget movie (according to Wikipedia, it was made for only $85) and you can obviously feel its budget, but you definitely get the impression the filmmakers are very passionate about their film and are happy to show it off to their fellow villagers (as stated in the opening credits, the director never expected for anyone outside his home village to watch the film). And the voice over narration is a large part of why the film achieves this, given how passionate it is and the way it hypes you up for the various action scenes. Plus, technical roughness aside, some of the action was actually pretty good as well. It was well-framed and had a decent bit of tension. Given how this film was made on a shoestring budget, I found that pretty impressive. If this film was 90 minutes or longer, its charm might've worn off, but at 68 minutes, I had a good time with it from beginning to end. I don't know if I'd be quick to rewatch this anytime soon or see other films like it (or not right away, at least), but I'm glad I checked this out.

7/10 (?)

[Takoma11]

I really need to see Captain Alex one of these days.

It's 68 minutes long and on YouTube!

[Rockatansky]

One of my biggest moviegoing regrets is not seeing that director’s Crazy World when it screened at TIFF a few years ago. Apparently he was in attendance

[cricket]

Who Killed Captain Alex? (2010)

2.5

https://thumbs.gfycat.com/CarefreePoliticalKittiwake-max-1mb.gif

I guess it depends on what curve the viewer judges it on. For the resources that were available, very good. Compared to truly good films, not so much. Pretty much every compliment that I could give it comes with a caveat. Even my thought that it's short length is one of it's best assets is a total backhanded compliment. I was annoyed more often than not with the narration, but I also think it would be missed if not there. Somehow I did enjoy it, more than many much more acclaimed films from our various lists. Mixed feelings but a decent watch.

[gbgoodies]

Who Killed Captain Alex? (2010) was better than it should have been based on the acting and the budget, but overall, I didn't care much for this movie. I knew that it probably wasn't going to be my type of movie, but it was only about an hour so I gave it a chance, but unfortunately, I never cared even a little bit about who killed Captain Alex, and the commentary was annoying. I think it was supposed to be a fun commentary, but it just felt like I was in a theater where the guy next to me just wouldn't stop talking during the movie. :rolleyes:

[WrinkledMind]

As a fan of Troma movies and someone who routinely watches the really good bad movies, I am not surprised to have loved this.

This is an ideal movie to watch with your mates. I expected the bad acting, cheap production, basic plot, and I don't hold that against them, considering the limited resources at their disposal.

What I did not expect was the hilarious humour. And I am not speaking about the unintentional comedy. This had some real good humour from the silly (German food), to the edgy (punishing someone for watching Nigerian movies) to the dark. I didn't mind the narration, or the fact that he kept reminding us which movie we are watching.

At just over an hour, it doesn't overstay its welcome.
I am glad I watched this.

Thanks for the recommendation jiraffejustin

[SpelingError]

Here are the current candidates to host the next round:

Miss Vicky
Allaby
ApexPredator
Takoma11
gbgoodies
WrinkledMind

[mistique]

I´ve watched Who Killed Captain Alex?

[mrblond]

Watched Who Killed Captain Alex too. Will comment later or I will not.

[SpelingError]

The next host is...

Miss Vicky
Allaby
ApexPredator
Takoma11
gbgoodies
WrinkledMind
mistique

[SpelingError]

Nomination #7

89200

Blue Jasmine (2013, Woody Allen)

Deadline to Watch It: October 6

Nominated By: mistique

[cricket]

I've seen Blue Jasmine before so I'll skip this round. It was my first Woody Allen after initially having no interest in the director. Now I've seen quite a few. It's a good one. Dice rules!

[Miss Vicky]

I’ve seen Blue Jasmine. It’s one of only two Woody Allen movies I’ve managed to get all the way through. I remember thinking it was pretty good but I have no desire to see it again. Will probably skip it.

[Allaby]

Blue Jasmine is great. I'm due for a rewatch, so I will likely rewatch it later today. I have the blu ray.

[Citizen Rules]

I wanted to jump back into this and I also need to rewatch Blue Jasmine for the countdown. So excited to see if my opinion changes on a second viewing. The first time I watched Blue Jasmine I was in the I hate Woody Allen movies camp. But then I challenged myself to watch a bunch of Allen's movies and ended up being a fan. So we'll see how I feel about Blue Jasmine.

[SpelingError]

This is just a reminder that if you've already seen the film and it's still pretty fresh in your head, you can still be added to the pool of hosts for the next round.

[Citizen Rules]

This is just a reminder that if you've already seen the film and it's still pretty fresh in your head, you can still be added to the pool of hosts for the next round.It ain't fresh in my head, hell I couldn't even say what it was about:eek: Kind of like it's been wiped from my mind.

[Miss Vicky]

This is just a reminder that if you've already seen the film and it's still pretty fresh in your head, you can still be added to the pool of hosts for the next round.

It's been like 8 years and I don't even remember what it was about.

[cricket]

This is just a reminder that if you've already seen the film and it's still pretty fresh in your head, you can still be added to the pool of hosts for the next round.

Not fresh enough to talk any details

[seanc]

That jazz score starts up an I am immediately in the mood. Haven’t watched an Allen in a while. See you in a couple hours.