See previous blogs for many films playing this next week. Films rated B- or better are recommended.
ROSARIO-----------GRADE--- C+
Pale melodrama with good looking actors--pretty to watch but shallow and forgettable historical drama about Philippine woman in the 1920's who moves from man to man in search of security and love.
JUCY------GRADE B-
Contemporary Aussie film about rivalry between two fun loving best friends. Easy to watch comedy, the two leads seem to be having a great time, and so do we.
ROTHSTEIN's 1ST ASSIGNMENT-----GRADE (F)
I walked out after 20 excruciating minutes of hand held camera shots from a moving car window, unidentified photographs (some repeated many times), voice over interviews of old people with such bad sound that you couldn't hear what was being said (subtitles, anyone?), and finally black film with scratches and squiggles like film being put through a projector that goes on for 10 seconds or more. Obviously this director's first project, and he had nothing interesting to say or no skills to say it.
BOY MEETS BOY--------GRADE A-
A shorts program, and the cause celebere of the weekend--a terrific collection (for a change)of gay themed shorts, which culminated in an X-rated explicit film of two friends talking about past sexual partners, and wondering why they'd never hooked up as lovers. Suddenly they do, and they do it ALL with cheerful abandonment. The film shocked a few folks, but I thought it was refreshingly honest and well made for a film about sexual attraction.
ABOVE US ONLY SKY-------GRADE B-
Well made and acted German film, but the frustrating plot sets up a mystery about what happened to this woman's suicidal husband, then instead of answering that question, switches gears to show how she handles her grief---by starting up a sudden new relationship with his look alike. A bait and switch story.
RED EAGLE---------GRADE B-
Thai film about a crime fighting super hero---addicted to morphine! The sound was tinny and the projection looked cheap, but still this was fun to watch in a popcorn movie sort of way. AND, it is to be continued.....
CODEPENDENT LESBIAN SPACE ALIEN SEEKS SAME-----GRADE C
Title says it all plot wise in this low budget film that I wanted to like more, but it was so low key and laid back that I kept dozing.
WE ARE THE NIGHT----------GRADE B+
A smooth, stylish, shit-kicking German vampire movie with a chic lesbian theme, and with one of the most interestingly horrifying opening scenes at SIFF so far this year. The ending collapses a bit until you realize that it's ripe for a sequel---yeah!!!!!
BLACK VENUS---------GRADE C+
If you have a high tolerance for long scenes of physical, mental, verbal and sexual abuse, then you will appreciate this painful-to-watch movie. This is a realistic recreation of the Hottentot Venus true story, but the abusive sequences go on way too long (and there are many of them in this three hour film)and that causes the energy to be sucked out of the narrative. Exhausting, disturbing and disappointing.
SUMMER CODA-------GRADE B-
Pleasant enough Aussie film of a VERY tentative love relationship, but this film could have used some tightening and editing, and less talk and more action.
THESE AMAZING SHADOWS--------GRADE B+
Documentary on the National Film Registry and how they are saving/preserving 25 films a year, important movies from the past. Many, many film clips and talking heads---what's not to like for any film buff?!?
YOUNG GOETHE IN LOVE-------GRADE B-
German historical costume drama is watchable but not terribly remarkable as it covers the early year when Goethe writes his first book based on his doomed romance with an engaged woman.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
SIFF REPORT 28 May
Here are some more films I've screened from Wed, Thur and Fri May 25-27. Many are playing in June. Any film rated B- or better is recommended....
THE LAST MOUNTAIN-----------GRADE A
Wow. A shocking and disturbing documentary on the coal mining industry and how they are poisoning our drinking water, among other crimes. Could be the best of SIFF, and there have been many strong docs this year to choose from.
LETTERS FROM THE BIG MAN--------GRADE B
"Woman communes with a Sasquach" tale is presented without a hint of sarcasm or camp, and is eccentrically fascinating to contemplate.
LESSON PLAN---------GRADE A-
Excellent doc about THE WAVE story from 1970 in a California High School, where a teacher introduced students to fascism--and the experiment worked a little too well. Was fictionalized into the German film several years ago called THE WAVE.
BI DON'T BE AFRAID------GRADE C+
Vietnamese film strong on lyrical visuals and photography, but portrait of young boy in sexually repressive adult world makes no sense. Interesting themes include ice, urine, and sex but incoherent narrative renders film ineffective.
STOOL PIGEON--------GRADE B+
Carefully written and plotted Hong Kong police thriller, with captain trying to bring in a crime boss using a planted stool pigeon. Great suspenseful sequences, with gory violent finale, this seems like the kind of film that Martin Scorese would want to remake in America.
WASTED ON THE YOUNG---------GRADE A-
This one created the most excited buzz/talk at the weekly screenings. Technically, very stylishly and sharply made, this creates a world with only teenagers--specifically the rich, private school kind. A rape and consequential cover up keep the tension tightening until the fascinating and tragic ending.
SALVATION BOULEVARD--------GRADE B
A likable, funny satire on Dead-Heads, mega-churches and blind faith. The cast has a blast, including Greg Kinnear, Pierce Brosnan, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly and the scene stealing Marisa Tomei, all of whom learn that their pastor is not who they think he is.
VAMPIRE-------------GRADE D
He's really a degenerate serial killer of suicidal young girls, by draining, not drinking their blood, for biological research. I think. Thirty five minutes into the film comes the audacious and offensive rape/murder scene, that, literally had half the audience get up en masse and exit the theatre. I was ready to leave before that when the camera was turned on it's side for a benign fishing scene, then flipped to the other side. What was this director thinking? Boring us to death does not make for a suspenseful film, despite blood drainings, a deranged mother tied up with helium balloons (!?!), and an illogical story. Possibly the worst of SIFF for this year, and yes, I stayed for it all.
GUN HILL ROAD--------GRADE B
A well cast, sharply written, if slightly familiar drama about a macho Latino returning from a prison term to find his wife with a boyfriend and his son wanting to become a girl (!). Similar in theme to the Benjamin Bratt film from several SIFF's ago called THE MISSION, this one works very well with a fascinating performance by the young would be transsexual Harmony Santana, and some very gritty, shockingly raw (yet truthful) scenes of sex and violence.
LITTLE ROCK--------GRADE B-
Sometimes your criteria for rating a film must change a bit to accommodate something like this small, mini-budget independent film, which works well at times as a social commentary on the lack of communication in society. A brother and sister from Japan get stuck in a small California town for several days, and the sister decides to stay a while getting to know some of the locals, despite the fact that she knows no English. Some of the characters are quite intriguing, in spite of the fact that most of them are un-or-underemployed, drunkards, potheads, slackers or unfocused to any goal in life. I wish the film had been MORE, but sometimes less works well too.
THE LAST MOUNTAIN-----------GRADE A
Wow. A shocking and disturbing documentary on the coal mining industry and how they are poisoning our drinking water, among other crimes. Could be the best of SIFF, and there have been many strong docs this year to choose from.
LETTERS FROM THE BIG MAN--------GRADE B
"Woman communes with a Sasquach" tale is presented without a hint of sarcasm or camp, and is eccentrically fascinating to contemplate.
LESSON PLAN---------GRADE A-
Excellent doc about THE WAVE story from 1970 in a California High School, where a teacher introduced students to fascism--and the experiment worked a little too well. Was fictionalized into the German film several years ago called THE WAVE.
BI DON'T BE AFRAID------GRADE C+
Vietnamese film strong on lyrical visuals and photography, but portrait of young boy in sexually repressive adult world makes no sense. Interesting themes include ice, urine, and sex but incoherent narrative renders film ineffective.
STOOL PIGEON--------GRADE B+
Carefully written and plotted Hong Kong police thriller, with captain trying to bring in a crime boss using a planted stool pigeon. Great suspenseful sequences, with gory violent finale, this seems like the kind of film that Martin Scorese would want to remake in America.
WASTED ON THE YOUNG---------GRADE A-
This one created the most excited buzz/talk at the weekly screenings. Technically, very stylishly and sharply made, this creates a world with only teenagers--specifically the rich, private school kind. A rape and consequential cover up keep the tension tightening until the fascinating and tragic ending.
SALVATION BOULEVARD--------GRADE B
A likable, funny satire on Dead-Heads, mega-churches and blind faith. The cast has a blast, including Greg Kinnear, Pierce Brosnan, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly and the scene stealing Marisa Tomei, all of whom learn that their pastor is not who they think he is.
VAMPIRE-------------GRADE D
He's really a degenerate serial killer of suicidal young girls, by draining, not drinking their blood, for biological research. I think. Thirty five minutes into the film comes the audacious and offensive rape/murder scene, that, literally had half the audience get up en masse and exit the theatre. I was ready to leave before that when the camera was turned on it's side for a benign fishing scene, then flipped to the other side. What was this director thinking? Boring us to death does not make for a suspenseful film, despite blood drainings, a deranged mother tied up with helium balloons (!?!), and an illogical story. Possibly the worst of SIFF for this year, and yes, I stayed for it all.
GUN HILL ROAD--------GRADE B
A well cast, sharply written, if slightly familiar drama about a macho Latino returning from a prison term to find his wife with a boyfriend and his son wanting to become a girl (!). Similar in theme to the Benjamin Bratt film from several SIFF's ago called THE MISSION, this one works very well with a fascinating performance by the young would be transsexual Harmony Santana, and some very gritty, shockingly raw (yet truthful) scenes of sex and violence.
LITTLE ROCK--------GRADE B-
Sometimes your criteria for rating a film must change a bit to accommodate something like this small, mini-budget independent film, which works well at times as a social commentary on the lack of communication in society. A brother and sister from Japan get stuck in a small California town for several days, and the sister decides to stay a while getting to know some of the locals, despite the fact that she knows no English. Some of the characters are quite intriguing, in spite of the fact that most of them are un-or-underemployed, drunkards, potheads, slackers or unfocused to any goal in life. I wish the film had been MORE, but sometimes less works well too.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
SIFF Report May 23 and May 24
I do recommend any film rated B- or better......
THE RESCUERS-------GRADE---D+
Cluttered, chaotic stories of unsung heroes during genocide of World War 2, and trying to tie that into the genocide in current day Darfur and other African countries---some individual stories are moving, but rushed through and awkwardly presented with embarrassing "recreations" and testimonials that seem too sanctimonious and pompous. Some viewers were moved--I was greatly annoyed and disappointed. Perhaps this subject matter needs to be handled as a mini-series with more quality time to present so much information. But as a documentary film, this one is awful.
WEEKEND----------GRADE---B
Two gay British men, strangers, one a self professed loner, the other deeply closeted, meet for sex, then spend the rest of the weekend being transformed by their relationship. Subtle, introspective and thoughtful. Sometimes needed subtitles due to accents, but a very nice, satisfying, LITTLE film.
VIVA RIVA--------GRADE---B
Chased by the gangsters from whom Riva has stolen a truckload of precious, scarce gasoline in the Congo, and by the military, and by everyone he meets, this is one lively, sexy, racist, sexist, misogynistic, homophobic, and at times, disgusting film. But it is NOT BORING.
WITHOUT--------GRADE----C+
Filmed locally, the slim story has a budding lesbian becoming a caretaker for an infirmed older man. Well acted and photographed, but it amounts to too little too late--obscure plot wise.
FINDING KIND--------GRADE-- B
Solid documentary about trying to teach teen age girls to be kinder to themselves and each other, this could have a huge impact in high schools all over the world. An inspiring eye-opener in how teens girls relate to each other in destructive ways.
THE MOUNTAIN--------GRADE---B-
Quiet chamber piece about a lesbian couple with a baby on the way, climbing a Norwegian mountain to mourn the loss of their young son several years earlier, and hopefully grow closer as a couple. Short (73 minutes) and effective.
MY SO CALLED ENEMY-------GRADE----B
Six Palestinian and six Israeli teen age girls attend a week long "camp" in the USA, learning to love and respect each other as humans. This thoughtful, strong documentary then follows them back to Palestine and Israel for the following year, with hopeful results.
KILLING BONO-------GRADE----B+
This delightful Irish surprise, based on a true story, has the school aged friends of Bono and U2 band struggling to make it in the music world--but always in U2's shadow. Goofy and broad at times, but immensely entertaining.
SHOCKING BLUE-------GRADE-----C+
Watchable but unremarkable Danish film about a young man who feels guilty for the accidental death of a friend. There's lots of tulips involved !?!
PINOY SUNDAY--------GRADE------B
Breezy and comically whimsical tale of two frustrated Philippine workers in Taiwan trying to make a better life for themselves and their absent families. The film is a charmer, although the ending seemed to drag on 10 minutes too long.
THE RESCUERS-------GRADE---D+
Cluttered, chaotic stories of unsung heroes during genocide of World War 2, and trying to tie that into the genocide in current day Darfur and other African countries---some individual stories are moving, but rushed through and awkwardly presented with embarrassing "recreations" and testimonials that seem too sanctimonious and pompous. Some viewers were moved--I was greatly annoyed and disappointed. Perhaps this subject matter needs to be handled as a mini-series with more quality time to present so much information. But as a documentary film, this one is awful.
WEEKEND----------GRADE---B
Two gay British men, strangers, one a self professed loner, the other deeply closeted, meet for sex, then spend the rest of the weekend being transformed by their relationship. Subtle, introspective and thoughtful. Sometimes needed subtitles due to accents, but a very nice, satisfying, LITTLE film.
VIVA RIVA--------GRADE---B
Chased by the gangsters from whom Riva has stolen a truckload of precious, scarce gasoline in the Congo, and by the military, and by everyone he meets, this is one lively, sexy, racist, sexist, misogynistic, homophobic, and at times, disgusting film. But it is NOT BORING.
WITHOUT--------GRADE----C+
Filmed locally, the slim story has a budding lesbian becoming a caretaker for an infirmed older man. Well acted and photographed, but it amounts to too little too late--obscure plot wise.
FINDING KIND--------GRADE-- B
Solid documentary about trying to teach teen age girls to be kinder to themselves and each other, this could have a huge impact in high schools all over the world. An inspiring eye-opener in how teens girls relate to each other in destructive ways.
THE MOUNTAIN--------GRADE---B-
Quiet chamber piece about a lesbian couple with a baby on the way, climbing a Norwegian mountain to mourn the loss of their young son several years earlier, and hopefully grow closer as a couple. Short (73 minutes) and effective.
MY SO CALLED ENEMY-------GRADE----B
Six Palestinian and six Israeli teen age girls attend a week long "camp" in the USA, learning to love and respect each other as humans. This thoughtful, strong documentary then follows them back to Palestine and Israel for the following year, with hopeful results.
KILLING BONO-------GRADE----B+
This delightful Irish surprise, based on a true story, has the school aged friends of Bono and U2 band struggling to make it in the music world--but always in U2's shadow. Goofy and broad at times, but immensely entertaining.
SHOCKING BLUE-------GRADE-----C+
Watchable but unremarkable Danish film about a young man who feels guilty for the accidental death of a friend. There's lots of tulips involved !?!
PINOY SUNDAY--------GRADE------B
Breezy and comically whimsical tale of two frustrated Philippine workers in Taiwan trying to make a better life for themselves and their absent families. The film is a charmer, although the ending seemed to drag on 10 minutes too long.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
SIFF Report May 20-May 22
Generally, films rated B- or higher are well worth seeing in my book. A mixed bag for the opening weekend, here's what I saw:
HAPPY HAPPY-------------GRADE B
Two lonely isolated couples mix it up in a remote Norwegian village. Cheerful, funny, quirky and at times a bit painful, it plays like an updated, tamer version of the 70's film BOB & CAROL & TED & ALICE.
EX----------------------GRADE C+
Pleasant enough romantic comedy from Hong Kong, but it feels too long and at times redundant, and some of the 20-something actors really got on my nerves with their whining and insecurities.
COPACABANA--------------GRADE B
Lightweight story about a bohemian 50-something woman whose daughter is ashamed of her, but the great French actress ISABELLE HUPPERT is, as usual, quite astonishing--I couldn't take my eyes off her. Her real life daughter has a supporting role (as the daughter!) and is quite good, too.
CHILD PRODIGY----------GRADE C+
An uninspired bio-pic about the life and death of master composer/pianist Andre Mathieu, but his glorious music was a revelation to me, and fills the soundtrack. Skip the film, but buy the CD.
CAMERAMAN: THE LIFE AND WORK OF JACK CARDIFF------GRADE B+
He spent over 80 years making films, including still photography, acting, cinematographer and towards his later years, as director. As any good documentary should, it makes you want to see again his crowning films which he infused with emotional and psychologically (vivid) color choices: BLACK NARCISSUS, THE RED SHOES, A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH, THE LIFE AND DEATH OF COLONEL BLIMP and many others.
SILENT SOULS----------GRADE C+
Heavy handed Russian film of two men who go on a ceremonial road trip to honor one man's recently deceased wife. Long, slow shots of desolated scenery taken from a car window.
THE TRIP--------------GRADE B
Fitfully amusing pseudo documentary/travelogue of two British comedians Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon who travel through northern Britain eating at fine restaurants, telling jokes and doing impressions (of British actors) that are pretty darn good. In the vein of MY DINNER WITH ANDRE, but less intellectual, and more juvenile at times. They also like to sing--here's another Kate Bush song (Wuthering Heights) sung a cappella by these two cards.
22nd of May-----------GRADE C-
There's some great ideas floating around this story of a security guard surviving the bombing of a shopping mall and being contacted by some of the dead people, but this was filmed (or projected) with a dark screen obscuring the action, and at times the aggressively chaotic camera work makes you nauseous. Most of this film is physically painful on the eyes and head to watch. Why would a director make an unwatchable film!!!????!!!!
FOUR MORE YEARS--------GRADE B
Light weight romantic comedy of two high ranking Swedish male politicians who fall in love!----the PROBLEM????? They belong to different political parties, and one is, inconveniently, married to a woman!!!! I liked this film, but I wish the film had been stronger--like those Spencer Tracy/Katherine Hepburn comedies-- where they were often at opposing sides of many different issues (ie WOMAN OF THE YEAR, PAT AND MIKE, ADAMS RIB). At least this is a step in the right direction--where sexuality is not the most exploitable key issue here.
HAPPY HAPPY-------------GRADE B
Two lonely isolated couples mix it up in a remote Norwegian village. Cheerful, funny, quirky and at times a bit painful, it plays like an updated, tamer version of the 70's film BOB & CAROL & TED & ALICE.
EX----------------------GRADE C+
Pleasant enough romantic comedy from Hong Kong, but it feels too long and at times redundant, and some of the 20-something actors really got on my nerves with their whining and insecurities.
COPACABANA--------------GRADE B
Lightweight story about a bohemian 50-something woman whose daughter is ashamed of her, but the great French actress ISABELLE HUPPERT is, as usual, quite astonishing--I couldn't take my eyes off her. Her real life daughter has a supporting role (as the daughter!) and is quite good, too.
CHILD PRODIGY----------GRADE C+
An uninspired bio-pic about the life and death of master composer/pianist Andre Mathieu, but his glorious music was a revelation to me, and fills the soundtrack. Skip the film, but buy the CD.
CAMERAMAN: THE LIFE AND WORK OF JACK CARDIFF------GRADE B+
He spent over 80 years making films, including still photography, acting, cinematographer and towards his later years, as director. As any good documentary should, it makes you want to see again his crowning films which he infused with emotional and psychologically (vivid) color choices: BLACK NARCISSUS, THE RED SHOES, A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH, THE LIFE AND DEATH OF COLONEL BLIMP and many others.
SILENT SOULS----------GRADE C+
Heavy handed Russian film of two men who go on a ceremonial road trip to honor one man's recently deceased wife. Long, slow shots of desolated scenery taken from a car window.
THE TRIP--------------GRADE B
Fitfully amusing pseudo documentary/travelogue of two British comedians Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon who travel through northern Britain eating at fine restaurants, telling jokes and doing impressions (of British actors) that are pretty darn good. In the vein of MY DINNER WITH ANDRE, but less intellectual, and more juvenile at times. They also like to sing--here's another Kate Bush song (Wuthering Heights) sung a cappella by these two cards.
22nd of May-----------GRADE C-
There's some great ideas floating around this story of a security guard surviving the bombing of a shopping mall and being contacted by some of the dead people, but this was filmed (or projected) with a dark screen obscuring the action, and at times the aggressively chaotic camera work makes you nauseous. Most of this film is physically painful on the eyes and head to watch. Why would a director make an unwatchable film!!!????!!!!
FOUR MORE YEARS--------GRADE B
Light weight romantic comedy of two high ranking Swedish male politicians who fall in love!----the PROBLEM????? They belong to different political parties, and one is, inconveniently, married to a woman!!!! I liked this film, but I wish the film had been stronger--like those Spencer Tracy/Katherine Hepburn comedies-- where they were often at opposing sides of many different issues (ie WOMAN OF THE YEAR, PAT AND MIKE, ADAMS RIB). At least this is a step in the right direction--where sexuality is not the most exploitable key issue here.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
The TOPP TWINS, plus SIFF Report May 16-19
One of the joys of SIFF 2010 was the delightful discovery of THE TOPP TWINS; Untouchable Girls, New Zealand born, country-singing, yodeling, comedians, and political activist--and lesbians!--the twins have been entertaining audiences since they were young teen agers growing up on the farm. The documentary films them in intimate concert, interviews friends and family, and cuts to many film clips showing their development into one of New Zealand's greatest iconic National Treasures. There is a lot of comedy and music on this journey, and if you've never heard of them, you'll want to get to know them more after watching this. Showing in limited engagements around the country this week and next. In Seattle at the Grand Illusion. GRADE----------A-
SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL---opens tonight--here are more films I saw this week May 16-19 at press screenings.....
TOUCH--------GRADE B
This low budget film starts out tritely and predictable, but it becomes more complex once the sexy plot kicks in--a young manicurist helps to jump start a male clients waning marriage with some tittalating "hands on" advice, and the cast is very charming and attractive.
MAN AT BATH--------GRADE---D+
There were many many walkouts during this short (73minute) film, not necessarily because of the full frontal male nudity and brief, explicit sex scenes. But rather because this was obviously filmed with just one cameraman working a very busy, giggly hand held camera, and working with out a script or story to tell. A chaotic mess which reminded me of early Andy Warhol films--however, they were more coherent, barely. In the middle, two men and a woman are in bed together singing, rather sweetly, Kate Bush's The Man With the Child In His Eyes. Go figure. Or better yet, go buy a Kate Bush CD. A big disappointment for everyone.
AN AFRICAN ELECTION--------C
Only those truly interested in Africian (particularilly Ghana) politics will find anything to keep them awake in this dry, dull political documentary.
ON TOUR---------B-
Altmanesque dialogue and rambling story line is at times engaging, at times annoying. Some actors (professional and non) are better than others. The story finds a disfunctional manager (Mathieu Amalric) dragging around his burlesque troop all over France. His character seemed especially cliched, but the cast is otherwise game and the glimpses of stage acts were often amusing.
PERFECT SENSE---------B+
Chef Ewan McGregor and scientist Eva Green discover each other just as a strange epidemic starts sweeping the world--one where the senses, one by one, start failing, and the emotional devastation starts to take it's toll. An intelligent, thoughtful, haunting science-fiction thriller.
PAPER BIRDS-----------B+
Spanish film set in the Franco era, this sentimental melodrama grows considerable dramatic and emotional strength by the (tearful) ending. Because of the war, two men and a young boy bond to become a "family" while trying to entertain in vaudeville during the depression of post-Civil War Spain.
NOBODY-------------C+
A retelling of Romeo and Juliet--instead of sword fighting, the young men participate in drag racing along some astonishingly deserted Greek highways. At times this plays like THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS in Greek and Russian and Bulgarian, but we know where this is headed and we've seen it done before, better.
HIT SO HARD----------B
I wasn't looking forward to this documentary of Courtney Love drummer Patty Schemel's battle with drugs, but there's some telling footage and interviews with Love, Kurt Cobain and other rock band members, and film fascinated me.
ON THE ICE----------B-
Filmed in Barrow Alaska, the setting is impressively opressive, and the cast (including some locals) is not bad. A tragic accident tears apart the small, close knit community, and lies tend to snowball (no pun intended) out of control.
SAIGON ELECTRIC----------B
At times simplistic and predictable, this entertaining, commercial Vietnamese (!) film about break/rap dancers is sensitively and enthusiastically acted by the youthful and attractive cast.
EVERY SONG IS ABOUT ME----------D+
Boring Spanish film, a minor attempt at a Woody Allen type of relationship comedy/drama, but nothing interesting or funny occurs or is spoken. Dull young man can't decide what he wants from any relationship. Sit at home and stare at your navel for 10 minutes instead, and you'll get an idea of what watching this film is like.
THE WHISTLEBLOWER------------A
A compelling and riviting thriller/true story about an American cop (Rachel Weisz) who takes a job as peace-keeper in Bosnia, only to discover a human trafficking ring that has corrupted the highest reaches of United Nations involvement. A whopper of a story, and the best movie of this past week.
SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL---opens tonight--here are more films I saw this week May 16-19 at press screenings.....
TOUCH--------GRADE B
This low budget film starts out tritely and predictable, but it becomes more complex once the sexy plot kicks in--a young manicurist helps to jump start a male clients waning marriage with some tittalating "hands on" advice, and the cast is very charming and attractive.
MAN AT BATH--------GRADE---D+
There were many many walkouts during this short (73minute) film, not necessarily because of the full frontal male nudity and brief, explicit sex scenes. But rather because this was obviously filmed with just one cameraman working a very busy, giggly hand held camera, and working with out a script or story to tell. A chaotic mess which reminded me of early Andy Warhol films--however, they were more coherent, barely. In the middle, two men and a woman are in bed together singing, rather sweetly, Kate Bush's The Man With the Child In His Eyes. Go figure. Or better yet, go buy a Kate Bush CD. A big disappointment for everyone.
AN AFRICAN ELECTION--------C
Only those truly interested in Africian (particularilly Ghana) politics will find anything to keep them awake in this dry, dull political documentary.
ON TOUR---------B-
Altmanesque dialogue and rambling story line is at times engaging, at times annoying. Some actors (professional and non) are better than others. The story finds a disfunctional manager (Mathieu Amalric) dragging around his burlesque troop all over France. His character seemed especially cliched, but the cast is otherwise game and the glimpses of stage acts were often amusing.
PERFECT SENSE---------B+
Chef Ewan McGregor and scientist Eva Green discover each other just as a strange epidemic starts sweeping the world--one where the senses, one by one, start failing, and the emotional devastation starts to take it's toll. An intelligent, thoughtful, haunting science-fiction thriller.
PAPER BIRDS-----------B+
Spanish film set in the Franco era, this sentimental melodrama grows considerable dramatic and emotional strength by the (tearful) ending. Because of the war, two men and a young boy bond to become a "family" while trying to entertain in vaudeville during the depression of post-Civil War Spain.
NOBODY-------------C+
A retelling of Romeo and Juliet--instead of sword fighting, the young men participate in drag racing along some astonishingly deserted Greek highways. At times this plays like THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS in Greek and Russian and Bulgarian, but we know where this is headed and we've seen it done before, better.
HIT SO HARD----------B
I wasn't looking forward to this documentary of Courtney Love drummer Patty Schemel's battle with drugs, but there's some telling footage and interviews with Love, Kurt Cobain and other rock band members, and film fascinated me.
ON THE ICE----------B-
Filmed in Barrow Alaska, the setting is impressively opressive, and the cast (including some locals) is not bad. A tragic accident tears apart the small, close knit community, and lies tend to snowball (no pun intended) out of control.
SAIGON ELECTRIC----------B
At times simplistic and predictable, this entertaining, commercial Vietnamese (!) film about break/rap dancers is sensitively and enthusiastically acted by the youthful and attractive cast.
EVERY SONG IS ABOUT ME----------D+
Boring Spanish film, a minor attempt at a Woody Allen type of relationship comedy/drama, but nothing interesting or funny occurs or is spoken. Dull young man can't decide what he wants from any relationship. Sit at home and stare at your navel for 10 minutes instead, and you'll get an idea of what watching this film is like.
THE WHISTLEBLOWER------------A
A compelling and riviting thriller/true story about an American cop (Rachel Weisz) who takes a job as peace-keeper in Bosnia, only to discover a human trafficking ring that has corrupted the highest reaches of United Nations involvement. A whopper of a story, and the best movie of this past week.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Bridesmaids, Jane Eyre, SIFF Report May 9-12
It took me a while to catch up to the new version of JANE EYRE, but it is definitely worth checking out. The film can hardly be called lovely, or ravishing or delightful--often adverbs used for such Victorian novels transported to cinema. Here we have a very realistic view of the struggles of being a poor woman living in a man's world in the 1800's. The atmosphere is gritty, dingy and poorly lighted, the clothes seem coarse and plain, and the weather severe. There were times I felt I was watching this in old black and white--so muted were the colors. But the power of Charlotte Bronte's story comes through even better than ever. I felt an emotional connection with these characters--especially with Jane and Rochester and their growing relationship. The beautiful score is incredibly subtle and unobtrusive, which makes us pay attention to the feelings of the characters--and not to what is swelling in us due to manufactured feelings, like seeing beautiful flowers, or sweeping landscapes or lush orchestral music. I liked this JANE EYRE, a lot, for it takes a chance by stripping down the glamorous exterior trappings. GRADE-----A-
Possibly the funniest movie of the year has just opened and it should be an early summer hit (hopefully) and it is populated by more than six strong, amusing women (and a couple of charming men.) Written by Saturday Night Live star Kristen Wiig, BRIDESMAIDS features wonderful comic turns by Melissa McCarthy (from TV's MIKE AND MOLLY) and Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live)and Rose Byrne (GET HIM TO THE GREEK and TV's DAMAGES) and MAD MEN'S John Hamm, and Chris O'Dowd (DINNER FOR SCHMUCKS and GULLIVER'S TRAVELS). This is a rowdy, charming, lovable, and at times grotesque look at how not to be the maid-of-honor at your best friend's wedding. There's a moving sweetness to the relationships between many of the characters, even when outrageous things are happening. One of the best times I've had at the movies in a long while. GRADE----------B+
-----------------------------
Seattle International Film Festival Report for May 9-12.
3 (THREE)--------GRADE B+
Visually strong and intriguing drama by Tom Tykwer (RUN LOLA RUN), this German film about a menage-a-trios is intelligent, philosophical, theological, sexual, artful, and fascinating to watch.
NATURAL SELECTION-------GRADE B-
I hated the first 45 minutes which plays like an obvious satire on the hypocritical sexuality of the conservative religious--as portrayed on an episode of the Jerry Springer Show. But when the neglected housewife hits the road to find her husband's long-lost drug dealing son, the tone changes from comic (and not very funny) to more serious, and the two leads are pretty good, and the tone feels more organic and consistent, and the movie really grew on me. Resist the urge to exit early.
A BAREFOOT DREAM---------GRADE B
A Korean film set in East Timor about a rudderless young man who tries to coach some poor, mostly orphaned children to play organized soccer. Very rough around the edges, with overly active performances and mise en scene, and sometimes the plotting didn't make much sense. But there's no denying the emotional pull of a good against-all-odds sports movie, and several of the child actors are affectingly good.
DANCE TOWN----------GRADE B-
Too much wailing and vomiting, but otherwise interesting story of a woman who must flee North Korea without her husband to start a new life. Unfortunately, life in South Korea is nearly just as miserable for her.
PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES-----------GRADE A-
Excellent profile of the financially struggling nation's newspapers, and the powerful argument to keeps the NYT going. This also makes a damning case against the Internet "news" organizations (like Huffington Post, etc). Fascinating and maddeningly potent.
BLACK, WHITE and BLUES------------GRADE C+
Soulful smooth music and some surprise twists at the end can't make up for slow and predictable, cliched tale of a drunken musician trying to make good.
BICYCLE, SPOON, APPLE--------------GRADE B-
Sincere, well meaning documentary on Alzheimer epidemic seems unfocused by trying to show how this disease is a problem all around the world. It should have stayed focused on the afflicted ex-mayor of Barcelona, a popular politico in Spain.
HOW TO DIE IN OREGON------------GRADE A
A powerful, personal plea in favor of the Death with Dignity solution that was started in Oregon, and now includes Washington and other states to follow. It focuses, heartbreakingly, on several key patients, and their difficult decisions. Devastatingly emotional at times, yet strangely uplifting and empowering, too.
JESS + MOSS--------------GRADE C
The photography compositions are interesting and artful, and the two kids are swell, but unfortunately there is NO PLOT or narrative to engage us. I will be more interested in this first time director's NEXT film.
MICROPHONE-----------GRADE B-
Evocative, exotic, chaotic musical look at urban life and art in Alexandria, Egypt. The film does cast a spell to the patient film-goer, but the thin plot and unresolved situations don't always satisfy.
RED EYES------- GRADE D
Yikes!!!!! Chilean National Soccer team is profiled with a jiggly camera, no insight into players or management or fans, editing done with a blender, shots of waving crowds and screaming announcers while goals are being made OFF camera....!!!!! etc etc etc. What an unprofessional and disappointing waste of time.
BUCK---------GRADE A-
True life story of "horse whisperer" Buck Brannaman. Interesting charming character, thoughtful and informative look a horses and horse training, and a spiritual journey for many involved.
Possibly the funniest movie of the year has just opened and it should be an early summer hit (hopefully) and it is populated by more than six strong, amusing women (and a couple of charming men.) Written by Saturday Night Live star Kristen Wiig, BRIDESMAIDS features wonderful comic turns by Melissa McCarthy (from TV's MIKE AND MOLLY) and Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live)and Rose Byrne (GET HIM TO THE GREEK and TV's DAMAGES) and MAD MEN'S John Hamm, and Chris O'Dowd (DINNER FOR SCHMUCKS and GULLIVER'S TRAVELS). This is a rowdy, charming, lovable, and at times grotesque look at how not to be the maid-of-honor at your best friend's wedding. There's a moving sweetness to the relationships between many of the characters, even when outrageous things are happening. One of the best times I've had at the movies in a long while. GRADE----------B+
-----------------------------
Seattle International Film Festival Report for May 9-12.
3 (THREE)--------GRADE B+
Visually strong and intriguing drama by Tom Tykwer (RUN LOLA RUN), this German film about a menage-a-trios is intelligent, philosophical, theological, sexual, artful, and fascinating to watch.
NATURAL SELECTION-------GRADE B-
I hated the first 45 minutes which plays like an obvious satire on the hypocritical sexuality of the conservative religious--as portrayed on an episode of the Jerry Springer Show. But when the neglected housewife hits the road to find her husband's long-lost drug dealing son, the tone changes from comic (and not very funny) to more serious, and the two leads are pretty good, and the tone feels more organic and consistent, and the movie really grew on me. Resist the urge to exit early.
A BAREFOOT DREAM---------GRADE B
A Korean film set in East Timor about a rudderless young man who tries to coach some poor, mostly orphaned children to play organized soccer. Very rough around the edges, with overly active performances and mise en scene, and sometimes the plotting didn't make much sense. But there's no denying the emotional pull of a good against-all-odds sports movie, and several of the child actors are affectingly good.
DANCE TOWN----------GRADE B-
Too much wailing and vomiting, but otherwise interesting story of a woman who must flee North Korea without her husband to start a new life. Unfortunately, life in South Korea is nearly just as miserable for her.
PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES-----------GRADE A-
Excellent profile of the financially struggling nation's newspapers, and the powerful argument to keeps the NYT going. This also makes a damning case against the Internet "news" organizations (like Huffington Post, etc). Fascinating and maddeningly potent.
BLACK, WHITE and BLUES------------GRADE C+
Soulful smooth music and some surprise twists at the end can't make up for slow and predictable, cliched tale of a drunken musician trying to make good.
BICYCLE, SPOON, APPLE--------------GRADE B-
Sincere, well meaning documentary on Alzheimer epidemic seems unfocused by trying to show how this disease is a problem all around the world. It should have stayed focused on the afflicted ex-mayor of Barcelona, a popular politico in Spain.
HOW TO DIE IN OREGON------------GRADE A
A powerful, personal plea in favor of the Death with Dignity solution that was started in Oregon, and now includes Washington and other states to follow. It focuses, heartbreakingly, on several key patients, and their difficult decisions. Devastatingly emotional at times, yet strangely uplifting and empowering, too.
JESS + MOSS--------------GRADE C
The photography compositions are interesting and artful, and the two kids are swell, but unfortunately there is NO PLOT or narrative to engage us. I will be more interested in this first time director's NEXT film.
MICROPHONE-----------GRADE B-
Evocative, exotic, chaotic musical look at urban life and art in Alexandria, Egypt. The film does cast a spell to the patient film-goer, but the thin plot and unresolved situations don't always satisfy.
RED EYES------- GRADE D
Yikes!!!!! Chilean National Soccer team is profiled with a jiggly camera, no insight into players or management or fans, editing done with a blender, shots of waving crowds and screaming announcers while goals are being made OFF camera....!!!!! etc etc etc. What an unprofessional and disappointing waste of time.
BUCK---------GRADE A-
True life story of "horse whisperer" Buck Brannaman. Interesting charming character, thoughtful and informative look a horses and horse training, and a spiritual journey for many involved.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Seattle Inter Film Festival Report May 2-5
PROJECT NIM---------Grade B+
Charming and heartbreaking true documentary of chimp who was raised by humans, then trained by researchers to communicate in sign language, then discarded.....
THE FUTURE----------Grade B
New edgy film by Miranda July (ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW) with droll witty humor and touches of fantasy. The humor dissipates by the end, and the (sometimes dark) themes go over the top at times, especially the "stopping time" element, but any film narrated by a sick, lonely cat (no kidding) can't be all bad. This one was the audience splitter of the week.
KOSMOS--------Grade C+
There are things to enjoy about this Turkish production, especially the crowing like birds between the two would be lovers, and the unsubtle Christ-like references of the main character. But the film drags on too long and the obscure symbolism becomes heavy handed.
CIRCUMSTANCE-------Grade B-
We learn that young, rich, beautiful people in Iran like to drink, smoke, use drugs, experiment with sexuality, and disobey their parents, just like everywhere else. Despite some watchable, provocative (for Iran) scenes, including a budding same sex relationship between two female cousins, the film feels passionless and unconvincing.
SOUND OF NOISE----------Grade B
From Sweden, an entertaining nonsense about a group of anarchistic musicians who try to make music out of unusual and bizarre (and at times illegal) structures in the big city, all the while being chased by a cop who hates music.
AMADOR------------Grade B+
Spanish film has poor young woman in an unhappy marriage taking a job caring for an elderly man, who dies before she can be paid her month's salary, and she must make some tough choices. The film is both funny, and moving, and has some surprising humanistic twists.
CRYING OUT---------Grade A-
Well acted film from Quebec, has a father, son and grandson all struggling with demons--mostly by trying to drown them with drink. The men are a mess, but the women are amusing because they love to gossip and boss. It is grim going at times, but the film feels real, and the scenery and characters are intriguing.
WIN/WIN---------Grade B
Not to be confused with the current Paul Giamatti film of the same title, this film from Netherlands chronicles the rise and fall of a young stockbroker with a mathematical penchant for knowing when to buy and when to sell, and how the emotional toll can create a dangerous and unhealthy environment.
VENICE---------Grade B-
We've seen lots of WW2 films, and this one suffers for it. A young boy is sent to live with the women relatives in an isolated Polish town instead of going on vacation in Venice as originally planned. When the basement floods in the decaying mansion they live in, he creates his own version of the canals of Venice. Unfortunately, with all those Nazis running around, you know how this will probably end.
SOMETHING VENTURED-----------Grade B+
Intriguingly sharp and witty documentary of the early days of Silicon Valley and venture capitalism. This is not subject matter that normally interests me, but I was entertained, amused, enlightened and now I know why creators/owners of successful corporations often end getting fired from their own companies.
SUBMARINE---------Grade C-
Despite a good cast (Sally Hawkins, Noah Taylor, Paddy Considine etc), this coming of age film is randomly written and directed, and the music and direction border on obnoxious. Over a decade ago, Noah Taylor used to star in these types of films--here he awkwardly plays the father. The teen actor at the center of the film seems to suck the energy out of his scenes. Ugh, worst of the week.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN LIFE IS NOT BEING DEAD-----------Grade C+
This visually striking and unique looking Spanish film was directed by THREE men, and it feels very disjointed in it's visual style. Some scenes feel like they came out of different films altogether, so the film misses out on any dramatic punch. The story centers on a political dissident who lives hidden for 40 years in the basement of his lover's house, unbeknowst to her husband, who lives with her upstairs. A lot of potential seems lost here.
----------------
Post script to last weeks blog--currently I cannot seem to go back in to edit or correct past blogs after they are first entered. ---The name of the gay horror/slasher film is HELLBENT (2005).
Charming and heartbreaking true documentary of chimp who was raised by humans, then trained by researchers to communicate in sign language, then discarded.....
THE FUTURE----------Grade B
New edgy film by Miranda July (ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW) with droll witty humor and touches of fantasy. The humor dissipates by the end, and the (sometimes dark) themes go over the top at times, especially the "stopping time" element, but any film narrated by a sick, lonely cat (no kidding) can't be all bad. This one was the audience splitter of the week.
KOSMOS--------Grade C+
There are things to enjoy about this Turkish production, especially the crowing like birds between the two would be lovers, and the unsubtle Christ-like references of the main character. But the film drags on too long and the obscure symbolism becomes heavy handed.
CIRCUMSTANCE-------Grade B-
We learn that young, rich, beautiful people in Iran like to drink, smoke, use drugs, experiment with sexuality, and disobey their parents, just like everywhere else. Despite some watchable, provocative (for Iran) scenes, including a budding same sex relationship between two female cousins, the film feels passionless and unconvincing.
SOUND OF NOISE----------Grade B
From Sweden, an entertaining nonsense about a group of anarchistic musicians who try to make music out of unusual and bizarre (and at times illegal) structures in the big city, all the while being chased by a cop who hates music.
AMADOR------------Grade B+
Spanish film has poor young woman in an unhappy marriage taking a job caring for an elderly man, who dies before she can be paid her month's salary, and she must make some tough choices. The film is both funny, and moving, and has some surprising humanistic twists.
CRYING OUT---------Grade A-
Well acted film from Quebec, has a father, son and grandson all struggling with demons--mostly by trying to drown them with drink. The men are a mess, but the women are amusing because they love to gossip and boss. It is grim going at times, but the film feels real, and the scenery and characters are intriguing.
WIN/WIN---------Grade B
Not to be confused with the current Paul Giamatti film of the same title, this film from Netherlands chronicles the rise and fall of a young stockbroker with a mathematical penchant for knowing when to buy and when to sell, and how the emotional toll can create a dangerous and unhealthy environment.
VENICE---------Grade B-
We've seen lots of WW2 films, and this one suffers for it. A young boy is sent to live with the women relatives in an isolated Polish town instead of going on vacation in Venice as originally planned. When the basement floods in the decaying mansion they live in, he creates his own version of the canals of Venice. Unfortunately, with all those Nazis running around, you know how this will probably end.
SOMETHING VENTURED-----------Grade B+
Intriguingly sharp and witty documentary of the early days of Silicon Valley and venture capitalism. This is not subject matter that normally interests me, but I was entertained, amused, enlightened and now I know why creators/owners of successful corporations often end getting fired from their own companies.
SUBMARINE---------Grade C-
Despite a good cast (Sally Hawkins, Noah Taylor, Paddy Considine etc), this coming of age film is randomly written and directed, and the music and direction border on obnoxious. Over a decade ago, Noah Taylor used to star in these types of films--here he awkwardly plays the father. The teen actor at the center of the film seems to suck the energy out of his scenes. Ugh, worst of the week.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN LIFE IS NOT BEING DEAD-----------Grade C+
This visually striking and unique looking Spanish film was directed by THREE men, and it feels very disjointed in it's visual style. Some scenes feel like they came out of different films altogether, so the film misses out on any dramatic punch. The story centers on a political dissident who lives hidden for 40 years in the basement of his lover's house, unbeknowst to her husband, who lives with her upstairs. A lot of potential seems lost here.
----------------
Post script to last weeks blog--currently I cannot seem to go back in to edit or correct past blogs after they are first entered. ---The name of the gay horror/slasher film is HELLBENT (2005).
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Henry's Crime, and minor Hitchcock
The onslaught of films begins for me tomorrow, May 2nd as the 2011 Seattle International Film Festival begins with some early screenings of films that will play when the Festival opens on Thursday the 19th of May. I'll try to blog several times a week to keep up with the 3 a day filming schedule. In the meantime, here are a few leftovers.
A modest heist film with some simple pleasures, HENRY'S CRIME has nothing of great distinction to recommend it, except for the lively performance of Vera Farminga, who has recently brightened the screen with George Clooney in UP IN THE AIR (2009) and the current SOURCE CODE with Jake Gyllenhaal. She's happy to steal the movie from the star and ex-pretty boy Keanu Reeves. Reeves is not a great actor, in fact if he were any stiffer in this film he'd be laid out in a coffin. For years he got by on his looks, but as he is getting older, he's going to have to come up with another gimmick to keep our attention. James Caan is OK as the aging ex-con who tries to help Reeves rob from a bank--at the start of the film Reeves is sent to prison for supposedly robbing said bank, but he didn't really do it, so now he figures he might just as well do it. Not a great plot, and a forgettable film in the long run. GRADE---------C+
DVD Choices--------------
Even minor Hitchcock is better than most good films, and it had been several years since I'd seen DIAL M FOR MURDER (1954). I was really reminded this time around as to how stage bound this film really is. (To spice it up, Hitchcock filmed it in 3-D, but I've never seen it that way, and I doubt that could really make any type of difference anyway.) I was also struck by the straight forwardness of Grace Kelly's infidelity with Robert Cummings character--so matter of fact, that it becomes rather surprising when she becomes the accused instead of the victim, as if her unfaithfulness is the real crime here. It is a clever little mystery, and the business with the key always manages to surprise me. GRADE--------B
I admired the visuals of Frank Miller's 300 (2007) and SIN CITY (2005)--both films based on graphic novels, and THE SPIRIT (2008) has the same stark b&w look--with spatters of bright blood red. The problem is that the script is so self consciously in-jokey and the actors so glib, that the film has no gravitas and wears out it's welcome early on. GRADE----------C
Young adults out on a wild party night on the town, on Halloween, while a mad stalker/slasher cuts off their heads one by one. Sound familiar???? Yes, but this one called HELLBENT (2005) has an interesting twist. All the characters (including, possibly the killer) are gay. And guess what? It still has a predictable plot, with perhaps a bit more witty asides and flamboyant eye candy to enliven the proceedings. GRADE--------------C
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