A newly minted revival of Stanley Donan's TWO FOR THE ROAD (1967) was the highlight this weekend, with the very attractive leads Audrey Hepburn and Albert Finney in their prime. I saw this as a teenager when it came out--it was the bottom half (!) of a double bill at the time, and I don't remember what the main feature was, but I remember thinking that this was BY FAR the superior film, and seeing it again after nearly 10 years reconfirms my feeling that this is perhaps one of the most succinct films on marriage that cinema has ever produced. (Other films that spring to mind may be SCENES FROM A MARRIAGE, UP, KRAMER VS KRAMER and JULIE and JULIA) The film cuts back and forth between four or five different time periods when the couple is traveling through Europe: the trip when they first meet, another trip on their honeymoon, a trip with another couple with an obnoxious child, a trip when they first meet his demanding boss, and another trip where they seem to be on the brink of divorce. The film is sophisticated, witty and very perceptive, with some great sight gags thrown in for good laughs. One of the great ones.......... GRADE---------A
It may not be great art, but THREE QUARTER MOON certainly hits all the right emotional notes. A six year old Turkish girl is abandoned in Nuremberg Germany after her grandmother ends up in the hospital and ends up bonding with a cranky old German taxi driver with problems of his own. There's an amazing long tracking shot that covers the emotional shock the taxi driver receives at a retail store that follows him out to the street, where another jolt of reality rocks him. And if the final resolution scene (ironically in a taxi) doesn't give you an emotional jolt, you don't deserve this lovely little film. GRADE--------A-
This was the SHORTS weekend, with a half dozen shorts programs. I saw the GROWING UP GAY program, and felt they were all quite good--clever, funny, insightful. Especially good was the last short called LITTLE ONES, a sardonic look at a gay couple and straight couple swapping home renovation stories and efforts to have children, over cocktails and a dinner that includes some dolls that the gay couple talk to like real children. GRADE-------B+
The Belgium film NORTH SEA TEXAS covers about 6 years in the life of a child who is growing up gay from an early age. The film starts when he is about 12 and discovers the pleasures of wearing his mother's jewelry and clothes. He also starts an affair with a neighbor boy about 3 years older, which lasts for several years. The subtle film is very serious and romantic in a way---he doesn't feel shame or abuse in this relationship, yet feels the sting when the older boy discovers girls. It's a film about the joy, heartache and frustration of first love, with some lovely actors really filling out the 1960's small town cast of characters. GRADE---------B
OVERHEARD 2 is a gripping thriller from Hong Kong that moves along at break neck speed. (This is a stand alone film---you don't need to have seen the first version.) A stock broker's car and home and office have been bugged by someone, and the police want to know who and why. There is a lot of discussion about financial markets, insider trading and dirty dealings, which mainly work like a McGuffin for what is basically a mystery chase thriller. GRADE-------B
It felt like the lush period drama BEL AMI was screened with the wrong lens, because it appeared extremely light and bright--with washed out colors. I talked to some who saw it on pay per view recently and they swore the film looks GREAT! The novel, by Guy de Maupassant, probably goes into much more detail--the film seems to rush through plot points. It is basically about a poor young man in 1895 Paris, who sleeps his way to wealth and power by seducing several wives of powerful men. The plot mechanics entertained me, and the cast including Robert Pattinson, Christina Ricci, Uma Thurman and Kristin Scott Thomas, was fun to watch. GRADE------B
Covering a dozen years, starting from 1939 up to about the early 1950's, this epic Swedish/Norway film SIMON AND THE OAKS explores the relationship between two Swedish families, Gentile and Jewish, and their friendship during the Nazi years and beyond. The first half centers on the two boys, one Jewish, the other (we soon find out) is half Jewish who struggle to find themselves, often in conflict with their two fathers. After the war, when the boys are young men, the film becomes more interesting, focusing on Simon, the half Jew, who struggles to discover his roots, as he reacts angerly toward his adopted family. I wish this had been directed by a stronger director--the film panders and wanders at times, when it should be juicing up the melodrama. GRADE------B
I've always enjoyed the films of Alex de la Iglesia (EL CRIMEN PERFECT 2004, DAY OF THE BEAST 1995) because he's often willing to go over the top in his direction. His new film AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT is also over the top in many ways, but I found it to be too unbelievable and, at times, too cruel to enjoy. When an unemployed ad man suffers an injury accident from which he cannot be moved, the whole event becomes an overblown (and a bit tedious) media circus. I got the point early on, but it is pounded home again and again. Watchable but unpleasant and distasteful. GRADE--------B-
Every couple of years, someone remakes LA RONDE in a different way, where multiple characters have sex, than interconnect with other lovers, until the drama comes full circle back to the first actors we have seen. (See CIRCLE OF LOVE, CIRCLE OF DESIRE, LA RONDE and others.) The sex in this new film called 3 6 0 is dominated by a prostitution ring that affects the lives of various characters, including Rachel Weisz, Jude Law, Ben Foster and Anthony Hopkins, although I'm not sure what the Hopkins subplot --he's searching for his runaway daughter--was doing here. In spite of good production values, it becomes rather grim and depressing stuff, and I was unmoved. GRADE------C+
JOSHUA TREE, 1951: A PORTRAIT OF JAMES DEAN is a fictionalized account of what might have been the life of Dean before he became a big iconic star. It takes the more extreme view that he was a gay hustler, and seduced his way to the top with a producer, director and his gay writer roommate. There is a lot of low budget, soft core gay sex scenes and nudity, and it sort of threw me. Some of the dialogue is stilted and pretentious, and some of the actors are not so convincing. What this film does have, in spades, is style, atmosphere, cool cinematography, and a great, authentic looking actor as Dean. Interesting try. GRADE---------C+
From Canada comes EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE, which starts out awkwardly, with weak actors saying unconvincing lines and platitudes, then goes down hill from there. Could just as well be called NOTHING AND NO ONE. GRADE--------D
It had better production values than the above E & E, and the actors were better spoken and prettier, but the Spanish film COUSINHOOD was so manic and unfunny and illogical, that it literally drove me out of the theatre after a long, tedious hour, along with a dozen or more audience members. GRADE--------D
Monday, May 28, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
SIFF Report May 21 through May 24
SIFF is in full swing, so much to catch up on. Here are my watched films, in descending order. Still, anything rated B- or higher is worth a look.
On the top of most cinephiles lists has got to be the incredibly long (total of 15 hours!), ambitious, insightful movie called THE STORY OF FILM: AN ODYSSEY, and this week I saw Parts 1 and 2 (out of 5). This creative documentary tries to tell the history of world cinema from its beginnings in the late 1800's somewhat chronologically, but does so by comparing, for example, early editing features with those in more current films, so that you don't just get bogged down in one era. It shows the influences that all these different films (lots of clips!) have on other directors. In spite of its length, the film still seems to gloss over many famous directors, actors and styles. It is so dense that at times it feels like too much of a good thing, and is probable best seen in 3 hour or less segments, which is the way it is being shown at SIFF. Word has it that it will be released on DVD in December, and I've also heard that SIFF may show it this summer after the festival. It is certainly a magnificent effort. GRADE------A
Effective, low budget film on a decade long love relationship between two men, KEEP THE LIGHTS ON is Ira Sachs' semi-autobiographical story of the problems and friendship and intimacies of a long term relationship. It feels very personal and honest, and the film making is solid. GRADE------A-
Inspiring, moving documentary about efforts of a high school in a disadvantaged, poor Compton community that tries different ways to motivate (with much success) kids to learn, including the opportunity for someone to win a $40,000 scholarship at the FREE THROW line. You get to know the 8 kids involved and some staff---- this surprising "little" film had the audience crying and cheering by the end. GRADE--------A-
Strong, powerful story of a single day--OSLO AUGUST 31-- in the life of a drug addict, as he visits friends and family, in search of something to keep him alive. Unfortunately, the shaky camera annoys the proceedings about half the time. GRADE--------A-
Another great documentary, WINTER NOMADS follows two shepherds as they move 800 sheep through the country side of Switzerland, encountering friends and antagonists along the way. There are some amazing shots of scenery, weather, sheep, donkeys, dogs and people---the film really transports you. GRADE--------A-
Somber yet hopeful story called BREATHING, from Austria, of a teenager living in a detention home, who gets a job working for a funeral home. This triggers feelings and questions about the woman who abandoned him as a baby in an orphanage. GRADE-------B+
Lively Korean comedy/drama/thriller of man with limited time to live due to liver failure who struggles to find a donor. He is a debt collector, but he (improbably) acts more like James Bond than a dying man. COUNTDOWN is immensely entertaining. (This marks the third time that Downs Syndrome is an important aspect of the plot at SIFF 2012. See also GOODBYE and ANY DAY NOW.) GRADE--------B+
Kristin Scott Thomas and Ethan Hawke add a touch of class to WOMAN IN THE FIFTH-- a moody, enigmatic mystery. Don't expect too many answers to the questions raised, but just enjoy the ride. GRADE------B
Director Thom Fitzgerald (THE HANGING GARDEN, BEEFCAKE, THREE NEEDLES) is back with an entertaining film called CLOUDBURST, a salty story of two older lesbians trying to stay together. Fortunately, they are played with great charm and enthusiasm by Olympia Dukakis and Brenda Fricker. The story has them on the lam from the law---Dukakis has broken Fricker out of an old folks home---hoping to get married in Canada before returning home. To help, they pick up an aimless young man, an ex-dancer who is hitch hiking. The plot is thin and at times very awkwardly progressed, but these two old pros get in some great lines, insults, dirty potty mouth language, and there is a surprising dose of amusing, full frontal (male) nudity. A whole lot of genuine feeling is generated between these three. GRADE-------B
Cheerful, lively documentary about the struggles of three would be star headliners on Broadway who instead work as THE STANDBYS--understudies for the stars who almost never call out sick. This film is a must for those interested in Broadway (or any other type) of theatre. GRADE------B
French film COTEAU ROUGE starts awkwardly, until you realize that this is a twisted satirical comedy (think TWIN PEAKS) that for me grew very likable and hilarious as it progressed. This film DID, however, split the audience between those who loved it and those who hated it. GRADE------B
I wanted to like the modest US comedy HELLO I MUST BE GOING more than I did. A 30 something, newly divorced and jobless woman finds herself living with her parents and finding solace in a handsome 19 year old. The film is slickly made and charmingly acted, but it feels a bit familiar. GRADE------B-
It's a close call on the charming indie comedy BROOKLYN BROTHERS BEAT THE BEST, about a rag tag trio who hit the road, touring with their gentle songs and children's toy instruments. There's a cleverness about much of the proceedings, but there's a lot of coincidences to swallow here, and the production values are marginal. Top billed Melissa Leo has one scene with maybe 2 lines. GRADE-------C+
The low budget science-fictionEARTHBOUND tries hard, but this Irish film just can't find the right tone, and the lines by the young actors are hard to hear. The special effects budget feels like $100 total, and the plot is familiar. Yawn. GRADE------C
Another film I wanted to like, but the documentary musical WELCOME TO DOE BAY plays like a llllooonnnnggg commercial for the Doe Bay music festival in the San Juan Islands. There were some nice musical interludes, but the talking heads kept repeating how wonderful it is to play in the San Juan Islands and be closer to their fans, and the film felt like double it's 75 minute running time. Might have worked better as a 20 minute short film. GRADE-------C-
Some shots of old movie palaces and urban streets in Cambodia are fascinating, and there is an intense 10 minute unbroken,emotional interview near the end with a director who survived the Khmer Rouge's deadly regime, but the film GOLDEN SLUMBERS, supposedly about Cambodia's hey day of film from 1960-1975 is a mish-mash of ideas and interviews that go no where. No archival materials exists of these films, so we listen to a dozen cinephiles and/or survivors tell us the plots and try to describe how wonderful these 40 years old films were. This is frustrating and tedious. GRADE-------D+
_____________
On DVD I watched the latest film from Richard (LOVE ACTUALLY, NOTTING HILL) Curtis called PIRATE RADIO (2009). His camera style in this one is chaotic and busy (hand-held), and many characters are over the top, making the film hard to enjoy. But it was fun to see the sinking of the pirate radio ship near the end, some of the laughs work quite well, and there is a liberal dose of great rock and roll tunes from the 1960's. GRADE-------B-
On the top of most cinephiles lists has got to be the incredibly long (total of 15 hours!), ambitious, insightful movie called THE STORY OF FILM: AN ODYSSEY, and this week I saw Parts 1 and 2 (out of 5). This creative documentary tries to tell the history of world cinema from its beginnings in the late 1800's somewhat chronologically, but does so by comparing, for example, early editing features with those in more current films, so that you don't just get bogged down in one era. It shows the influences that all these different films (lots of clips!) have on other directors. In spite of its length, the film still seems to gloss over many famous directors, actors and styles. It is so dense that at times it feels like too much of a good thing, and is probable best seen in 3 hour or less segments, which is the way it is being shown at SIFF. Word has it that it will be released on DVD in December, and I've also heard that SIFF may show it this summer after the festival. It is certainly a magnificent effort. GRADE------A
Effective, low budget film on a decade long love relationship between two men, KEEP THE LIGHTS ON is Ira Sachs' semi-autobiographical story of the problems and friendship and intimacies of a long term relationship. It feels very personal and honest, and the film making is solid. GRADE------A-
Inspiring, moving documentary about efforts of a high school in a disadvantaged, poor Compton community that tries different ways to motivate (with much success) kids to learn, including the opportunity for someone to win a $40,000 scholarship at the FREE THROW line. You get to know the 8 kids involved and some staff---- this surprising "little" film had the audience crying and cheering by the end. GRADE--------A-
Strong, powerful story of a single day--OSLO AUGUST 31-- in the life of a drug addict, as he visits friends and family, in search of something to keep him alive. Unfortunately, the shaky camera annoys the proceedings about half the time. GRADE--------A-
Another great documentary, WINTER NOMADS follows two shepherds as they move 800 sheep through the country side of Switzerland, encountering friends and antagonists along the way. There are some amazing shots of scenery, weather, sheep, donkeys, dogs and people---the film really transports you. GRADE--------A-
Somber yet hopeful story called BREATHING, from Austria, of a teenager living in a detention home, who gets a job working for a funeral home. This triggers feelings and questions about the woman who abandoned him as a baby in an orphanage. GRADE-------B+
Lively Korean comedy/drama/thriller of man with limited time to live due to liver failure who struggles to find a donor. He is a debt collector, but he (improbably) acts more like James Bond than a dying man. COUNTDOWN is immensely entertaining. (This marks the third time that Downs Syndrome is an important aspect of the plot at SIFF 2012. See also GOODBYE and ANY DAY NOW.) GRADE--------B+
Kristin Scott Thomas and Ethan Hawke add a touch of class to WOMAN IN THE FIFTH-- a moody, enigmatic mystery. Don't expect too many answers to the questions raised, but just enjoy the ride. GRADE------B
Director Thom Fitzgerald (THE HANGING GARDEN, BEEFCAKE, THREE NEEDLES) is back with an entertaining film called CLOUDBURST, a salty story of two older lesbians trying to stay together. Fortunately, they are played with great charm and enthusiasm by Olympia Dukakis and Brenda Fricker. The story has them on the lam from the law---Dukakis has broken Fricker out of an old folks home---hoping to get married in Canada before returning home. To help, they pick up an aimless young man, an ex-dancer who is hitch hiking. The plot is thin and at times very awkwardly progressed, but these two old pros get in some great lines, insults, dirty potty mouth language, and there is a surprising dose of amusing, full frontal (male) nudity. A whole lot of genuine feeling is generated between these three. GRADE-------B
Cheerful, lively documentary about the struggles of three would be star headliners on Broadway who instead work as THE STANDBYS--understudies for the stars who almost never call out sick. This film is a must for those interested in Broadway (or any other type) of theatre. GRADE------B
French film COTEAU ROUGE starts awkwardly, until you realize that this is a twisted satirical comedy (think TWIN PEAKS) that for me grew very likable and hilarious as it progressed. This film DID, however, split the audience between those who loved it and those who hated it. GRADE------B
I wanted to like the modest US comedy HELLO I MUST BE GOING more than I did. A 30 something, newly divorced and jobless woman finds herself living with her parents and finding solace in a handsome 19 year old. The film is slickly made and charmingly acted, but it feels a bit familiar. GRADE------B-
It's a close call on the charming indie comedy BROOKLYN BROTHERS BEAT THE BEST, about a rag tag trio who hit the road, touring with their gentle songs and children's toy instruments. There's a cleverness about much of the proceedings, but there's a lot of coincidences to swallow here, and the production values are marginal. Top billed Melissa Leo has one scene with maybe 2 lines. GRADE-------C+
The low budget science-fictionEARTHBOUND tries hard, but this Irish film just can't find the right tone, and the lines by the young actors are hard to hear. The special effects budget feels like $100 total, and the plot is familiar. Yawn. GRADE------C
Another film I wanted to like, but the documentary musical WELCOME TO DOE BAY plays like a llllooonnnnggg commercial for the Doe Bay music festival in the San Juan Islands. There were some nice musical interludes, but the talking heads kept repeating how wonderful it is to play in the San Juan Islands and be closer to their fans, and the film felt like double it's 75 minute running time. Might have worked better as a 20 minute short film. GRADE-------C-
Some shots of old movie palaces and urban streets in Cambodia are fascinating, and there is an intense 10 minute unbroken,emotional interview near the end with a director who survived the Khmer Rouge's deadly regime, but the film GOLDEN SLUMBERS, supposedly about Cambodia's hey day of film from 1960-1975 is a mish-mash of ideas and interviews that go no where. No archival materials exists of these films, so we listen to a dozen cinephiles and/or survivors tell us the plots and try to describe how wonderful these 40 years old films were. This is frustrating and tedious. GRADE-------D+
_____________
On DVD I watched the latest film from Richard (LOVE ACTUALLY, NOTTING HILL) Curtis called PIRATE RADIO (2009). His camera style in this one is chaotic and busy (hand-held), and many characters are over the top, making the film hard to enjoy. But it was fun to see the sinking of the pirate radio ship near the end, some of the laughs work quite well, and there is a liberal dose of great rock and roll tunes from the 1960's. GRADE-------B-
Monday, May 21, 2012
SIFF Report 18-20 May
I'm seeing a lot of films now that the festival has kicked into gear, so comments may be briefer than usual---I'll write more when these films open for regular runs.
Certainly the funniest, and sure to be one of the most popular films from SIFF 2012 is a smash hit from France called THE INTOUCHABLES, the unlikely but true story of a poor Senegalese immigrant from the Parisian projects who becomes the live in care-giver to a wealthy quadriplegic man. This odd-couple story delivers consistent laughs, while maintaining a strong humanistic point of view. Since I first saw him in TELL NO ONE, I've thought Francois Cluzet could be Dustin Hoffman's twin brother, and visions of an inevitable Hollywood remake would cast Hoffman with a youthful up and coming Eddie Murphy type. This one should be seen before it is Americanized. GRADE-------A-
A beautifully creative documentary on the iconic fashion editor and personality, DIANA VREELAND: THE EYE HAS TO TRAVEL is a revealing and entertaining look at the her life and friends and family with interviews and clips featuring Dick Cavett, Ali McGraw, Anjelica Huston, Diane von Furstenberg and many others. GRADE-------A-
Epic looking film SACRIFICE from Chinese director Chen Kaige (FAREWELL MY CONCUBINE) featuring big Shakespearean themes of betrayal, revenge, respect and loyalty. The first 30 minutes is a violent swirl of characters and several babies (!?!), and it is difficult to sort through all the chaos, but once the air clears, the focus becomes centered on four characters, and the film becomes a very strong, if slightly melodramatic, journey towards tragic revenge. GRADE--------B+
From Great Britain comes an intense, gripping MY BROTHER THE DEVIL set in the London housing projects, as an older brother involved with drugs and guns through his gang tries desperately to keep his younger brother out of that life-style. When his best friend is violently killed, he tries to break out of the gang life, but finds himself compromised by his political and sexual awakenings. This is a smart, effective thriller that benefits from the strong relationships between brothers and their family and friends. An impressive feature film debut for Sally El Hosani, it is marred only by the strong accents and slang that sometimes made it difficult to understand. GRADE--------B+
From Iran comes the solid drama GOODBYE, about a young pregnant woman whose husband is a political dissident in hiding. Her career as a lawyer has been politically stalled, she must endure indignities of continual harassment from a repressive government, she's thinking of (an illegal) abortion, and she desperately wants to leave the country. The film builds tension with a number of scenes that detail her struggling existence---she's not allowed to make any medical decisions without consulting her absent husband, her pet turtle's container keeps developing slow leaks, even her mother's nagging seems ominous. GRADE-------------B
I could have used less politics and more music in the infectious documentary UNDER AFRICAN SKIES about the creation and success and then backlash around Paul Simon's classic album GRACELAND, but this is still an intriguing and toe-tapping experience. This film is scheduled to show on TV's A&E channel this month. GRADE-----B
He may have impressive muscles, but the body builder's mother seems to have an eerie control over his "manhood" in the Danish film TEDDY BEAR . It's a sweet natured film about a 38 year old man very timid in his attempts to find a girlfriend, so he travels to Thailand to meet someone, like his uncle did. Simple, straightforward, pleasant. GRADE-------B-
Haunting documentary with interviews and dramatic reconstructions, this is the true story of a single 38 year old woman who mysteriously died in 2003 while wrapping Christmas presents, and whose body was not discovered for OVER 3 YEARS, all the while her apartment stank, bills piled up, and her TV was on the whole time. DREAMS OF A LIFE raises questions on why someone would not be missed for 3 years in this society filled with technology. The film asks more questions than it answers, and should be shortened by 20 minutes--mostly from staged scenes of her singing and dancing alone in her apartment---still this raised lots of discussion after the screening. GRADE--------B-
Granted I was rather sleepy watching the French/German film KILL ME about a depressed teenager who runs away with an escaped convict and dragged throughout the country side trying to escape capture by authorities, but nothing very engaging seemed to be happening whenever I'd open my eyes to watch some more. GRADE-------C+
No narration, plot or special effects or fancy editing, BESTIAIRE (French Canadian) is straightforward shots of animals in a zoo looking mostly head on into the camera for sometimes minutes at a time. The film is sometimes meditative and fascinating. At other times the camera placement seemed awkward---only the legs are seen, or only the sky, with the heads occasionally coming into view. It's running time is only 72 minutes, but at times it seemed like the animal version of JEANNE DIELMAN (1975). GRADE----C+
Actress turned director/writer Sarah Polley's first film was the moving exploration of dementia with Julie Christie called AWAY FROM HER (2007). Her new film, while intriguing at times, is not nearly so good. TAKE THIS WALTZ, which features the Leonard Cohen song by the same name in a montage of sexual proclivities (!), is a familiar, leisurely story of a seemingly happily married woman (Michelle Williams) who becomes fascinated by the attentions of her hunky neighbor. I just couldn't get a grip on what made her want to leave her marriage, what was so attractive about this new man when her loving husband (an underplayed Seth Rogan) seemed like a good match. There are some charming/effective scenes: a full frontal scene in a woman's shower is bold; she and her husband sit on opposite sides of a window, yet much is communicated between them, and in another scene, she and her would be lover swim like dolphins in a public pool--twirling around each other in synchronized beauty. But there were other scenes that were just plain stupid---she tries to distract her husband's business call by playing with his lips and sticking her fingers in his mouth--and in another scene she's called home because her (estranged) sister-in-law has been out on a drunken binge (!?!). Better luck with the story next time , Sarah. GRADE---------C
Certainly the funniest, and sure to be one of the most popular films from SIFF 2012 is a smash hit from France called THE INTOUCHABLES, the unlikely but true story of a poor Senegalese immigrant from the Parisian projects who becomes the live in care-giver to a wealthy quadriplegic man. This odd-couple story delivers consistent laughs, while maintaining a strong humanistic point of view. Since I first saw him in TELL NO ONE, I've thought Francois Cluzet could be Dustin Hoffman's twin brother, and visions of an inevitable Hollywood remake would cast Hoffman with a youthful up and coming Eddie Murphy type. This one should be seen before it is Americanized. GRADE-------A-
A beautifully creative documentary on the iconic fashion editor and personality, DIANA VREELAND: THE EYE HAS TO TRAVEL is a revealing and entertaining look at the her life and friends and family with interviews and clips featuring Dick Cavett, Ali McGraw, Anjelica Huston, Diane von Furstenberg and many others. GRADE-------A-
Epic looking film SACRIFICE from Chinese director Chen Kaige (FAREWELL MY CONCUBINE) featuring big Shakespearean themes of betrayal, revenge, respect and loyalty. The first 30 minutes is a violent swirl of characters and several babies (!?!), and it is difficult to sort through all the chaos, but once the air clears, the focus becomes centered on four characters, and the film becomes a very strong, if slightly melodramatic, journey towards tragic revenge. GRADE--------B+
From Great Britain comes an intense, gripping MY BROTHER THE DEVIL set in the London housing projects, as an older brother involved with drugs and guns through his gang tries desperately to keep his younger brother out of that life-style. When his best friend is violently killed, he tries to break out of the gang life, but finds himself compromised by his political and sexual awakenings. This is a smart, effective thriller that benefits from the strong relationships between brothers and their family and friends. An impressive feature film debut for Sally El Hosani, it is marred only by the strong accents and slang that sometimes made it difficult to understand. GRADE--------B+
From Iran comes the solid drama GOODBYE, about a young pregnant woman whose husband is a political dissident in hiding. Her career as a lawyer has been politically stalled, she must endure indignities of continual harassment from a repressive government, she's thinking of (an illegal) abortion, and she desperately wants to leave the country. The film builds tension with a number of scenes that detail her struggling existence---she's not allowed to make any medical decisions without consulting her absent husband, her pet turtle's container keeps developing slow leaks, even her mother's nagging seems ominous. GRADE-------------B
I could have used less politics and more music in the infectious documentary UNDER AFRICAN SKIES about the creation and success and then backlash around Paul Simon's classic album GRACELAND, but this is still an intriguing and toe-tapping experience. This film is scheduled to show on TV's A&E channel this month. GRADE-----B
He may have impressive muscles, but the body builder's mother seems to have an eerie control over his "manhood" in the Danish film TEDDY BEAR . It's a sweet natured film about a 38 year old man very timid in his attempts to find a girlfriend, so he travels to Thailand to meet someone, like his uncle did. Simple, straightforward, pleasant. GRADE-------B-
Haunting documentary with interviews and dramatic reconstructions, this is the true story of a single 38 year old woman who mysteriously died in 2003 while wrapping Christmas presents, and whose body was not discovered for OVER 3 YEARS, all the while her apartment stank, bills piled up, and her TV was on the whole time. DREAMS OF A LIFE raises questions on why someone would not be missed for 3 years in this society filled with technology. The film asks more questions than it answers, and should be shortened by 20 minutes--mostly from staged scenes of her singing and dancing alone in her apartment---still this raised lots of discussion after the screening. GRADE--------B-
Granted I was rather sleepy watching the French/German film KILL ME about a depressed teenager who runs away with an escaped convict and dragged throughout the country side trying to escape capture by authorities, but nothing very engaging seemed to be happening whenever I'd open my eyes to watch some more. GRADE-------C+
No narration, plot or special effects or fancy editing, BESTIAIRE (French Canadian) is straightforward shots of animals in a zoo looking mostly head on into the camera for sometimes minutes at a time. The film is sometimes meditative and fascinating. At other times the camera placement seemed awkward---only the legs are seen, or only the sky, with the heads occasionally coming into view. It's running time is only 72 minutes, but at times it seemed like the animal version of JEANNE DIELMAN (1975). GRADE----C+
Actress turned director/writer Sarah Polley's first film was the moving exploration of dementia with Julie Christie called AWAY FROM HER (2007). Her new film, while intriguing at times, is not nearly so good. TAKE THIS WALTZ, which features the Leonard Cohen song by the same name in a montage of sexual proclivities (!), is a familiar, leisurely story of a seemingly happily married woman (Michelle Williams) who becomes fascinated by the attentions of her hunky neighbor. I just couldn't get a grip on what made her want to leave her marriage, what was so attractive about this new man when her loving husband (an underplayed Seth Rogan) seemed like a good match. There are some charming/effective scenes: a full frontal scene in a woman's shower is bold; she and her husband sit on opposite sides of a window, yet much is communicated between them, and in another scene, she and her would be lover swim like dolphins in a public pool--twirling around each other in synchronized beauty. But there were other scenes that were just plain stupid---she tries to distract her husband's business call by playing with his lips and sticking her fingers in his mouth--and in another scene she's called home because her (estranged) sister-in-law has been out on a drunken binge (!?!). Better luck with the story next time , Sarah. GRADE---------C
Thursday, May 17, 2012
3rd Week Report from SIFF 2012
Here are some new screenings that are coming to SIFF 2012.
Wes Anderson's new film is very much like his other quirky, funny films. Called MOONRISE KINGDOM, it is set on a New England island that is used mostly for campers and in this case, scouts and their masters. When one young scout "resigns" from his post and runs away with the daughter of the island lawyers, they become the hunted as the whole island turns out to find them. As in the earlier films which include ROYAL TENENBAUMS (2001), FANTASTIC MR. FOX (2009) and LIFE AQUATIC w/STEVE ZISSOU (2004), music plays a key role, and the dead pan actors are all excellent--they include Frances McDormand, Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton and Tilda Swinton. A unique, odd world is created, with much offbeat humor, pratfalls and heartfelt passion. You've never seen anything like this society in the movies before. It is a triumph of direction, style and humor. GRADE------A
The triumphant directorial return to form of Australian Fred Schepisi is quite evident in the new melodrama THE EYE OF THE STORM, based on a novel by Patrick White. Charlotte Rampling is the dying matriarch who summons her difficult adult children (Geoffrey Rush and Judy Davis) to her side--she is manipulative and, as illuminated in flashback, rather heartless. Rush and Davis struggle to escape from her hold. The film is flush with witty asides and terrific one liners, and the photography is lush, the music and editing all first rate. But it is the story that really holds us--a seemingly stereotyped situation becomes a microcosm for all of modern societies struggles. Over 30 years ago, Schepisi films were eagerly awaited for their intelligent and unique take on society. They include THE DEVIL'S PLAYGROUND (1976), CHANT OF JIMMIE BLACKSMITH (1978), PLENTY (1985), A CRY IN THE DARK (1988) and in my opinion, his last really provocative film, SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION (1993). He's back BIG TIME with this very intelligent, funny, entertaining melodrama. GRADE--------A
Director, actor, and writer Josh Radnor really scores with LIBERAL ARTS--his story of a 35 years old grad who returns to his Alma-mater and becomes infatuated with a young student. The charming actors, which include Elizabeth Olsen, Richard Jenkins, Allison Janney and Zac Efron, score big points in likability and subtlety--the film becomes a moving meditation on friendship, responsibility and the difficulty of "moving on." GRADE-------A-
Interesting French/Italian "adult" film about an older writer with a block, who quickly marries a younger bisexual woman and gets involved with her family and friends. The title UNFORGIVABLE refers to, I think, the fact that he is quite jealous--at one point he has her followed, and it could also refer to the wife's inability to really trust in her loving capabilities. It may also refer to his runaway daughter's actions, as well as the actions of many other characters. There's a lot of nuance and undercurrent that sometimes gets resolved.. Venice is an intriguing back drop, and the characters are complex, dramatic, and the film kept me off guard through out its running time. GRADE-------B
A well meaning, touching drama based on a true story, ANY DAY NOW has a closeted gay couple in the early 1970's trying to care for a neglected young teen with Down Syndrome. Alan Cumming gets to sing (he's the more flamboyant, artistic one of the couple) and the setting is effective. Now if we can just get that camera to stop flitting about....... GRADE--------B
THE IMPOSTOR plays like a longer version of the CBS show 48 HOURS MYSTERY---here the mystery story is everything. Four years after a young boy has disappeared, a stranger in Spain claims to be the the now teen aged boy, in spite of the fact that his eyes are brown and his hair is dark, unlike the blue eyed, blond haired boy that went missing. Everyone, even his family, believes this lie. Entertaining, but hardly earth shattering documentary, it will be fine to watch on TV, and A&E network actually produced this film. GRADE--------B
HEMEL uses sex as a weapon, as therapy and as gratification, in this modern looking film from Netherlands. At times it was confusing to distinguish some of the supporting characters, and the busy camera work doesn't help, but the film is propelled by the dynamic (but pathetic) lead. GRADE---------B-
If you cut out all the swear words that started with F in this extremely profane urban film called GIMME THE LOOT , the 80 minute running time would have been cut down to less than 30 minutes, which is about how long it should be. Two teens obsessed with graffiti writing try to raise money for a big (defacing) job, mostly by stealing from others. I admired the inner-city spunk that is captured here, but the film ends abruptly and rather subtly. GRADE-------C+
The South African film HOW TO STEAL 2 MILLION ends up looking like a dark lens was placed over the camera, I think in an effort to look noirish, but it just made me squint a lot. The characters are all attitude--the men especially do a lot of macho posturing, and the film is slow until the plot/blood-letting starts to kick in after the first hour. By then I didn't really care. GRADE------C
The Spanish film YEAR OF GRACE had a consistently wiggly camera (trying to be edgy or annoying????) and the characters actions and comments were tedious and boring. A young college aged student moves to Barcelona, boarding with a lonely older woman, but I didn't believe their early hostility or their eventual friendship, and there is nothing of interest featured in this Barcelona---supposedly one of Spain's most beautiful cities. What a waste!! GRADE-------C
The potential is wasted in STEP UP TO THE PLATE, a documentary from France---a father is turning over the reins of his haute cuisine restaurant to his son, but numerous scenes include father jogging, and son jogging, and many shots of the sun rise throughout the year, and of father/son pawing through vegetable bins, and pointless ruminations on the sadness and uncertainty of the transfer. Only a few shots of actual recipes being created are of much interest. Mostly quite dull. TOP CHEF this is not. GRADE--------C-
HAIL from Australia, has characters that speak such poor, accented English, that it was easier to try to read the Italian subtitles that were distracting displayed on screen. Add to that an AGGRESSIVELY hand held camera that couldn't hold still, and couldn't stay in focus, so I ran from the theater after 30 minutes, behind a dozen that beat me to the door. There was a steady stream of walk outs---about half the audience escaped before the final credits. Those that came out looked shell-shocked and disgusted that they'd stayed. GRADE on first 30 minutes------D-
Wes Anderson's new film is very much like his other quirky, funny films. Called MOONRISE KINGDOM, it is set on a New England island that is used mostly for campers and in this case, scouts and their masters. When one young scout "resigns" from his post and runs away with the daughter of the island lawyers, they become the hunted as the whole island turns out to find them. As in the earlier films which include ROYAL TENENBAUMS (2001), FANTASTIC MR. FOX (2009) and LIFE AQUATIC w/STEVE ZISSOU (2004), music plays a key role, and the dead pan actors are all excellent--they include Frances McDormand, Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton and Tilda Swinton. A unique, odd world is created, with much offbeat humor, pratfalls and heartfelt passion. You've never seen anything like this society in the movies before. It is a triumph of direction, style and humor. GRADE------A
The triumphant directorial return to form of Australian Fred Schepisi is quite evident in the new melodrama THE EYE OF THE STORM, based on a novel by Patrick White. Charlotte Rampling is the dying matriarch who summons her difficult adult children (Geoffrey Rush and Judy Davis) to her side--she is manipulative and, as illuminated in flashback, rather heartless. Rush and Davis struggle to escape from her hold. The film is flush with witty asides and terrific one liners, and the photography is lush, the music and editing all first rate. But it is the story that really holds us--a seemingly stereotyped situation becomes a microcosm for all of modern societies struggles. Over 30 years ago, Schepisi films were eagerly awaited for their intelligent and unique take on society. They include THE DEVIL'S PLAYGROUND (1976), CHANT OF JIMMIE BLACKSMITH (1978), PLENTY (1985), A CRY IN THE DARK (1988) and in my opinion, his last really provocative film, SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION (1993). He's back BIG TIME with this very intelligent, funny, entertaining melodrama. GRADE--------A
Director, actor, and writer Josh Radnor really scores with LIBERAL ARTS--his story of a 35 years old grad who returns to his Alma-mater and becomes infatuated with a young student. The charming actors, which include Elizabeth Olsen, Richard Jenkins, Allison Janney and Zac Efron, score big points in likability and subtlety--the film becomes a moving meditation on friendship, responsibility and the difficulty of "moving on." GRADE-------A-
Interesting French/Italian "adult" film about an older writer with a block, who quickly marries a younger bisexual woman and gets involved with her family and friends. The title UNFORGIVABLE refers to, I think, the fact that he is quite jealous--at one point he has her followed, and it could also refer to the wife's inability to really trust in her loving capabilities. It may also refer to his runaway daughter's actions, as well as the actions of many other characters. There's a lot of nuance and undercurrent that sometimes gets resolved.. Venice is an intriguing back drop, and the characters are complex, dramatic, and the film kept me off guard through out its running time. GRADE-------B
A well meaning, touching drama based on a true story, ANY DAY NOW has a closeted gay couple in the early 1970's trying to care for a neglected young teen with Down Syndrome. Alan Cumming gets to sing (he's the more flamboyant, artistic one of the couple) and the setting is effective. Now if we can just get that camera to stop flitting about....... GRADE--------B
THE IMPOSTOR plays like a longer version of the CBS show 48 HOURS MYSTERY---here the mystery story is everything. Four years after a young boy has disappeared, a stranger in Spain claims to be the the now teen aged boy, in spite of the fact that his eyes are brown and his hair is dark, unlike the blue eyed, blond haired boy that went missing. Everyone, even his family, believes this lie. Entertaining, but hardly earth shattering documentary, it will be fine to watch on TV, and A&E network actually produced this film. GRADE--------B
HEMEL uses sex as a weapon, as therapy and as gratification, in this modern looking film from Netherlands. At times it was confusing to distinguish some of the supporting characters, and the busy camera work doesn't help, but the film is propelled by the dynamic (but pathetic) lead. GRADE---------B-
If you cut out all the swear words that started with F in this extremely profane urban film called GIMME THE LOOT , the 80 minute running time would have been cut down to less than 30 minutes, which is about how long it should be. Two teens obsessed with graffiti writing try to raise money for a big (defacing) job, mostly by stealing from others. I admired the inner-city spunk that is captured here, but the film ends abruptly and rather subtly. GRADE-------C+
The South African film HOW TO STEAL 2 MILLION ends up looking like a dark lens was placed over the camera, I think in an effort to look noirish, but it just made me squint a lot. The characters are all attitude--the men especially do a lot of macho posturing, and the film is slow until the plot/blood-letting starts to kick in after the first hour. By then I didn't really care. GRADE------C
The Spanish film YEAR OF GRACE had a consistently wiggly camera (trying to be edgy or annoying????) and the characters actions and comments were tedious and boring. A young college aged student moves to Barcelona, boarding with a lonely older woman, but I didn't believe their early hostility or their eventual friendship, and there is nothing of interest featured in this Barcelona---supposedly one of Spain's most beautiful cities. What a waste!! GRADE-------C
The potential is wasted in STEP UP TO THE PLATE, a documentary from France---a father is turning over the reins of his haute cuisine restaurant to his son, but numerous scenes include father jogging, and son jogging, and many shots of the sun rise throughout the year, and of father/son pawing through vegetable bins, and pointless ruminations on the sadness and uncertainty of the transfer. Only a few shots of actual recipes being created are of much interest. Mostly quite dull. TOP CHEF this is not. GRADE--------C-
HAIL from Australia, has characters that speak such poor, accented English, that it was easier to try to read the Italian subtitles that were distracting displayed on screen. Add to that an AGGRESSIVELY hand held camera that couldn't hold still, and couldn't stay in focus, so I ran from the theater after 30 minutes, behind a dozen that beat me to the door. There was a steady stream of walk outs---about half the audience escaped before the final credits. Those that came out looked shell-shocked and disgusted that they'd stayed. GRADE on first 30 minutes------D-
Monday, May 14, 2012
More Screenings from SIFF 2012
Here are more films from the upcoming SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2012 that I can, for the most part, recommend.
A long haul trucker from Argentina is annoyed when a woman he is asked to drive over 900 miles to Buenos Aires shows up with a babe-in-arms in the lovely LAS ACACIAS. As expected, his gruff demeanor starts to melt as the baby starts to steal the film. The film works very well as a prolonged character study of two lonely people, and there is a lot of tension as they start to "connect." This is a priceless little film. GRADE------A-
This film called TEY from Senegal is what I would call a typical FILM FESTIVAL movie--you might never have a chance to see it any other place, and it most certainly appeals to film-goers who like exotic, ambiguous fables that transcend subject matter with lyrical, moving moments of cinematic poetry. Satche, the main character, is a middle aged man who spends his last day alive on earth visiting friends and family, yet we never know why he is going to die. Somehow it doesn't matter, in the moving, poetic TEY. GRADE-------A-
Filmed in the Southwest but well produced in Washington state with local director Megan Griffiths, the suspense film EDEN is based on a true story of a teen who is kidnapped and forced into prostitution. The film (at times gratefully) pulls its punches when dealing with sexual slavery--the details are skimmed over, but still manages to suck the viewer into this tawdry world in an engrossing and well filmed manner. The actors are quite effective, especially the surprisingly insidious Beau Bridges. GRADE-------B+
I normally LOVE French Canadian films, so in spite of some awkward plotting and motivations, the lavishly photographed and well acted production WETLANDS impresses. A struggling farm family must deal with mourning, debt, sex and loneliness as they try to keep the farm afloat. GRADE-------B
Several films below were certainly worth seeing, but they have some issues that make me hesitant to give them a grade higher than the cut off point of B-.
Three young, beautiful and occasionally naked people fall in love in the Brazilian/Spanish film THE SEX OF THE ANGELS, which wants to take the bisexual theme seriously (two men and one woman), but keeps glossing over some more important issues, and there are at least two scenes that come off as totally unbelievable. Still this is easy to watch eye-candy. GRADE-------B-
This epic documentary HOW TO SURVIVE A PLAGUE about the political efforts of ACT UP and TAG--two organizations in the 1980's that provided publicity and support in the efforts to make AIDS an important issue for the complacent US government (and general population), is a mixed bag. Alternately moving and chaotic, inhumane and joyous, preachy and critical, dry and emotional, intelligent and yet reactive, dull yet at times enthralling, this film is all over the map. I learned a lot, but I wish it had been better edited, with the focus kept more on the personalities, which are moving, and less on the politics. GRADE--------B-
The once beautiful, now polluted lake village in Kashmir is the setting of this pretty but languid film VALLEY OF SAINTS about an aimless young man who wants to leave his village but becomes fascinated with a female researcher who is trying to find ways to rescue the lake (and village) from suffocating in pollution. The environmental issues seem important, but they distract in a clinical way from the relationship themes the man is experiencing. GRADE--------B-
The intriguing premise and visuals of THE MEXICAN SUITCASE are sabotaged by some dull, confusing narration. After 75 years, a suitcase holding 4,500 negatives from world famous photographers Robert Capa, Gerda Taro and David Seymour, taken during the Spanish Civil War, are discovered in a closet and now on display in museums and in books. Unfortunately, the film makers assume that the viewer knows all about the Spanish Civil War, and all about the photographers, which mad me feel lost and unfulfilled while watching this documentary. GRADE-------B-
Pleasant but minor comedy drama SLEEPWALK WITH ME, which plays like a lessor Woody Allen film, this is "based on a true story" of THIS AMERICAN LIFE (radio show) contributor Mike Birbiglia, who finds that commitment to his long time girlfriend is maybe something he can't continue, especially when the "marriage" subject comes up. Birbiglia stars along with Lauren Ambrose, Carol Kane, James Rebhorn and others. GRADE-------B-
An 11 year old boy living with his grandmother, is taken out for a (long) day by his ex-con uncle, who one quickly realises has not yet been rehabilitated. The uncle wants to "make a man" out of this child. There are some very intense, disturbing scenes in LUV as the uncle takes him on his "business" deals, which include real estate transactions, drug dealing, teaching him to drive, and murder. A number of plot points stretch credibility, but the cast which includes Dennis Haysbert, Danny Glover, Charles S. Dutton, Lonette McKee and Common is effective. GRADE-------C+
A long haul trucker from Argentina is annoyed when a woman he is asked to drive over 900 miles to Buenos Aires shows up with a babe-in-arms in the lovely LAS ACACIAS. As expected, his gruff demeanor starts to melt as the baby starts to steal the film. The film works very well as a prolonged character study of two lonely people, and there is a lot of tension as they start to "connect." This is a priceless little film. GRADE------A-
This film called TEY from Senegal is what I would call a typical FILM FESTIVAL movie--you might never have a chance to see it any other place, and it most certainly appeals to film-goers who like exotic, ambiguous fables that transcend subject matter with lyrical, moving moments of cinematic poetry. Satche, the main character, is a middle aged man who spends his last day alive on earth visiting friends and family, yet we never know why he is going to die. Somehow it doesn't matter, in the moving, poetic TEY. GRADE-------A-
Filmed in the Southwest but well produced in Washington state with local director Megan Griffiths, the suspense film EDEN is based on a true story of a teen who is kidnapped and forced into prostitution. The film (at times gratefully) pulls its punches when dealing with sexual slavery--the details are skimmed over, but still manages to suck the viewer into this tawdry world in an engrossing and well filmed manner. The actors are quite effective, especially the surprisingly insidious Beau Bridges. GRADE-------B+
I normally LOVE French Canadian films, so in spite of some awkward plotting and motivations, the lavishly photographed and well acted production WETLANDS impresses. A struggling farm family must deal with mourning, debt, sex and loneliness as they try to keep the farm afloat. GRADE-------B
Several films below were certainly worth seeing, but they have some issues that make me hesitant to give them a grade higher than the cut off point of B-.
Three young, beautiful and occasionally naked people fall in love in the Brazilian/Spanish film THE SEX OF THE ANGELS, which wants to take the bisexual theme seriously (two men and one woman), but keeps glossing over some more important issues, and there are at least two scenes that come off as totally unbelievable. Still this is easy to watch eye-candy. GRADE-------B-
This epic documentary HOW TO SURVIVE A PLAGUE about the political efforts of ACT UP and TAG--two organizations in the 1980's that provided publicity and support in the efforts to make AIDS an important issue for the complacent US government (and general population), is a mixed bag. Alternately moving and chaotic, inhumane and joyous, preachy and critical, dry and emotional, intelligent and yet reactive, dull yet at times enthralling, this film is all over the map. I learned a lot, but I wish it had been better edited, with the focus kept more on the personalities, which are moving, and less on the politics. GRADE--------B-
The once beautiful, now polluted lake village in Kashmir is the setting of this pretty but languid film VALLEY OF SAINTS about an aimless young man who wants to leave his village but becomes fascinated with a female researcher who is trying to find ways to rescue the lake (and village) from suffocating in pollution. The environmental issues seem important, but they distract in a clinical way from the relationship themes the man is experiencing. GRADE--------B-
The intriguing premise and visuals of THE MEXICAN SUITCASE are sabotaged by some dull, confusing narration. After 75 years, a suitcase holding 4,500 negatives from world famous photographers Robert Capa, Gerda Taro and David Seymour, taken during the Spanish Civil War, are discovered in a closet and now on display in museums and in books. Unfortunately, the film makers assume that the viewer knows all about the Spanish Civil War, and all about the photographers, which mad me feel lost and unfulfilled while watching this documentary. GRADE-------B-
Pleasant but minor comedy drama SLEEPWALK WITH ME, which plays like a lessor Woody Allen film, this is "based on a true story" of THIS AMERICAN LIFE (radio show) contributor Mike Birbiglia, who finds that commitment to his long time girlfriend is maybe something he can't continue, especially when the "marriage" subject comes up. Birbiglia stars along with Lauren Ambrose, Carol Kane, James Rebhorn and others. GRADE-------B-
An 11 year old boy living with his grandmother, is taken out for a (long) day by his ex-con uncle, who one quickly realises has not yet been rehabilitated. The uncle wants to "make a man" out of this child. There are some very intense, disturbing scenes in LUV as the uncle takes him on his "business" deals, which include real estate transactions, drug dealing, teaching him to drive, and murder. A number of plot points stretch credibility, but the cast which includes Dennis Haysbert, Danny Glover, Charles S. Dutton, Lonette McKee and Common is effective. GRADE-------C+
Monday, May 7, 2012
Terrific AVENGERS, and notes of SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2012!!!!!
There is no herky jerky camera work, every character is well played and has a lot to do, the plotting is logical (for science fiction, that is) and easy to follow, the special effects feel visionary and clear, the photography and editing are sharp and vivid (in 2D) and overall, I thought the new film MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS is really terrific---the first great action sci-fi of the year. I was especially impressed with Tom Hiddleston, who plays the villain Hoki, evil brother of Thor. He was the best thing in last year's THOR and brought some sensitivity and depth to his evilness. Adding Mark Ruffalo as Bruce (Hulk) Banner, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye and Scarlett Johanson as the Black Widow really adds some classy and humorous actors to the already established entourage of Robert Downey's Iron Man and Chris Evans Captain America. Only Thor's Chris Hemsworth seemed a little flat to me. Other supporting characters sparkle, like Gregg Clark and Gweneth Paltrow and Stellan Skarsgard. The film takes it's time to establish the characters and relationships. Kudos to Joss Whedon who directed and wrote the screenplay; he really knows how to create fascinating stories and characters---see his other creations like BUFFY VAMPIRE SLAYER, SERENITY, and FIREFLY. I eagerly look forward to the sequel. GRADE-----A-
Speaking of science fiction, I forgot to comment on LOGAN'S RUN (1976) from several weeks ago. It holds up as a sexy, creative story of humanity on the run from an impersonal, dehumanizing society. Michael York play Logan, sort of like a futuristic police man, who tries to keep 30 year olds from running away from certain death--no one is allowed to live beyond 30, so they are tricked into believing they are "retiring" to a better place. Outside the sterile city he finds the truth. Old man Peter Ustinov is there to fill in the gaps, with some humor, and Jenny Agutter is there to keep him warm and together they like to get naked. There have been many films with similar themes, but this one seems so charming and innocent. Apparently it is being remade with Ryan Gosling in the lead. GRADE-------B
-------------------------
1st SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Report
_________________
HIGH GROUND--This powerful US documentary follows a dozen disabled veterans from the Afghan/Iran conflict as they scale Mt Everest, sharing emotional stories and personal revelations. Spellbinding, with exquisite photography and production values. GRADE-----A
STARBUCK----Pleasing French Canadian comedy about an irresponsible man/child who apparently has fathered dozens of children due to his sperm bank donations, and now they all want to meet him! GRADE----A-
ELENA----Psychological character study of Russian woman married to a rich man. She struggles to keep her inheritance from him in tact. Fascinating art/set direction, and well acted, gripping, twisted, understated. GRADE----B+
POLISSE---Engrossing French police thriller about cops working in the Child Protective Unit. There are a lot of stories and characters intertwined, and, surprisingly, a lot of humor. GRADE------B+
CRACKS IN THE SHELL---Solid German film centered on a stressed out drama student, who must balance home life, her naivety, and a demanding director when she lands her first starring role. Shades of BLACK SWAN and WOMAN UNDER THE INFLUENCE, and just as powerfully acted.
THE DO-DECA-PENTATHLON---If it weren't for the silly, aggressive hand held camera jitters, I'd give this funny, independent Duplass brothers film an "A"--- The story has two super-competitive brothers trying to one-up-each other at a weekend-long birthday party, but it hits close to home on many levels, especially by dissecting the man-child syndrome. GRADE-----B+
SUPERCLASICO---Pleasant, comic film from Denmark. Depressed man (with his teen aged son) follows his estranged wife and her soccer-star lover to Argentina in an effort to win her back. Visually amusing and stylish (especially dancing cockroaches!). GRADE------B
STARRY STARRY NIGHT---A production of China and Korea, but quite Western in style and visuals, this is based on a children's book, about a teen ager whose parents are going through divorce, so she throws herself into a fantasy world with another teen boy. A curious film, creatively stylish and beautiful to watch, but it maintains a cool distance. GRADE------B
SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED---This US independent film starts slowly, as some young journalists try to find the real story of an eccentric, possibly loony, clerk (Mark Duplass) who claims to know about time travel. The film warms up as the characters become more developed, and the humor and Pacific Northwest scenery add a lot of interest. GRADE-----B
FAT KID RULES THE WORLD----Well filmed in Seattle, this modest story tells of a fat, outcast student who becomes involved with a drug addict while trying to form a punk rock band. The actors are all great, especially Billy Campbell as the ex-Marine father who tries to balance being a good parent with protecting his struggling teen from the grittiness of life.
GRADE----------B
AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY---Informative US/China documentary on political artist Weiwei, who was recently "arrested and detained" for several months for criticizing the Chinese government. His art works are highly symbolic forms of criticism, also, but I did get a bit tired of the middle finger which is used in a lot of his work. GRADE-------B
TRUE WOLF---Well intentioned, serious US documentary about a wolf born in captivity, and raised by humans. Unfortunately, the photography is grainy, the narration is repetitive, the film makers have a strong single mindedness (that wolves should be allowed to live all over the wild---an idea to which I'm not opposed), and the theme has been done much better in the past---particularly with last year's PROJECT NIM. GRADE------C
38 WITNESSES----A French thriller without any thrills, this slow moving drama about an urban neighborhood that ignores the screams of a woman being stabbed to death, takes one hour to get to the point, then seems to fizzle away without any climax. GRADE------C-
I will write about more films next weekend---I recommend any film rated B- or higher.
Speaking of science fiction, I forgot to comment on LOGAN'S RUN (1976) from several weeks ago. It holds up as a sexy, creative story of humanity on the run from an impersonal, dehumanizing society. Michael York play Logan, sort of like a futuristic police man, who tries to keep 30 year olds from running away from certain death--no one is allowed to live beyond 30, so they are tricked into believing they are "retiring" to a better place. Outside the sterile city he finds the truth. Old man Peter Ustinov is there to fill in the gaps, with some humor, and Jenny Agutter is there to keep him warm and together they like to get naked. There have been many films with similar themes, but this one seems so charming and innocent. Apparently it is being remade with Ryan Gosling in the lead. GRADE-------B
-------------------------
1st SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Report
_________________
HIGH GROUND--This powerful US documentary follows a dozen disabled veterans from the Afghan/Iran conflict as they scale Mt Everest, sharing emotional stories and personal revelations. Spellbinding, with exquisite photography and production values. GRADE-----A
STARBUCK----Pleasing French Canadian comedy about an irresponsible man/child who apparently has fathered dozens of children due to his sperm bank donations, and now they all want to meet him! GRADE----A-
ELENA----Psychological character study of Russian woman married to a rich man. She struggles to keep her inheritance from him in tact. Fascinating art/set direction, and well acted, gripping, twisted, understated. GRADE----B+
POLISSE---Engrossing French police thriller about cops working in the Child Protective Unit. There are a lot of stories and characters intertwined, and, surprisingly, a lot of humor. GRADE------B+
CRACKS IN THE SHELL---Solid German film centered on a stressed out drama student, who must balance home life, her naivety, and a demanding director when she lands her first starring role. Shades of BLACK SWAN and WOMAN UNDER THE INFLUENCE, and just as powerfully acted.
THE DO-DECA-PENTATHLON---If it weren't for the silly, aggressive hand held camera jitters, I'd give this funny, independent Duplass brothers film an "A"--- The story has two super-competitive brothers trying to one-up-each other at a weekend-long birthday party, but it hits close to home on many levels, especially by dissecting the man-child syndrome. GRADE-----B+
SUPERCLASICO---Pleasant, comic film from Denmark. Depressed man (with his teen aged son) follows his estranged wife and her soccer-star lover to Argentina in an effort to win her back. Visually amusing and stylish (especially dancing cockroaches!). GRADE------B
STARRY STARRY NIGHT---A production of China and Korea, but quite Western in style and visuals, this is based on a children's book, about a teen ager whose parents are going through divorce, so she throws herself into a fantasy world with another teen boy. A curious film, creatively stylish and beautiful to watch, but it maintains a cool distance. GRADE------B
SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED---This US independent film starts slowly, as some young journalists try to find the real story of an eccentric, possibly loony, clerk (Mark Duplass) who claims to know about time travel. The film warms up as the characters become more developed, and the humor and Pacific Northwest scenery add a lot of interest. GRADE-----B
FAT KID RULES THE WORLD----Well filmed in Seattle, this modest story tells of a fat, outcast student who becomes involved with a drug addict while trying to form a punk rock band. The actors are all great, especially Billy Campbell as the ex-Marine father who tries to balance being a good parent with protecting his struggling teen from the grittiness of life.
GRADE----------B
AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY---Informative US/China documentary on political artist Weiwei, who was recently "arrested and detained" for several months for criticizing the Chinese government. His art works are highly symbolic forms of criticism, also, but I did get a bit tired of the middle finger which is used in a lot of his work. GRADE-------B
TRUE WOLF---Well intentioned, serious US documentary about a wolf born in captivity, and raised by humans. Unfortunately, the photography is grainy, the narration is repetitive, the film makers have a strong single mindedness (that wolves should be allowed to live all over the wild---an idea to which I'm not opposed), and the theme has been done much better in the past---particularly with last year's PROJECT NIM. GRADE------C
38 WITNESSES----A French thriller without any thrills, this slow moving drama about an urban neighborhood that ignores the screams of a woman being stabbed to death, takes one hour to get to the point, then seems to fizzle away without any climax. GRADE------C-
I will write about more films next weekend---I recommend any film rated B- or higher.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
PINA 3D, FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT, KID W/A BIKE, THINK LIKE A MAN, THE FAIRY
Finally caught up with PINA 3D, and what a treat. It puts you right into the dance performance as if you had front row seats at McCaw Hall. In this case the 3D was subtle, but possibly still unnecessary, but I did enjoy the way the dancers seemed to float in air at times. As a film, there is no story or narrative, and one doesn't really get any biography of Pina Bausch, a German dancer and choreographer, but we do get excited for the creative process and the dedication she put into her work. A must see for lovers of modern dance. GRADE------A
This years BRIDESMAIDS, in theme, at least, is the warm and hilarious comedy THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT, which features a wonderful coupling of two very likable actors--Jason Segel (TV's HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER) and Emily Blunt (see the delightful SALMON FISHING IN YEMEN). It is directed by Nicholas Stoller, who made one of my favorite recent comedies GET HIM TO THE GREEK (2010). The opening 20 minutes is a riot, and the final 20 minutes is very sweetly memorable, and in between it is funny, moving, charming, and immensely entertaining. GRADE--------A-
Film makers Luc and Jean Pierre Dardenne have made a number of memorable films together, many of them featuring children. These include LA PROMESSE (1996), ROSETTA (1999), and L'INFANT (2005). Their new film KID WITH A BIKE also features a young boy who has been abandoned by his birth father and turns to a single hairstylist for attention. Actor Jeremie Renier has appeared in most of their films, ---in L'ENFANT he played the father who tries to sell his baby for money, without the mother knowing. In KID he's the flaky father, and it almost plays like a sequel to that earlier heart breaking film. KID W/ A BIKE is another moving look at struggling children looking for love (see LA PROMESSE and ROSETTA). GRADE-------B
THE FAIRY (LA FEE) is a charming, slapstick, nearly silent French film created by actor/writer/producers Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon and Bruno Romy, the team responsible for L'ICEBERG (2005) and RUMBA (2008), and the three films are very much in the same style. The sets are whimsical, the actors deadpan and engaging, and the stories are sweet, quirky and at times funny. The humor may not be appreciated by everyone--sometimes, if you do not have the patience to wait for the payoffs in each scene, you may grow weary of watching. But you have to admire the creative world that each film creates. Like Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton, the pratfalls are everything and the characters are always endearing. You can give me these films any day over the manipulative THE ARTIST. GRADE-------B
Based on the Steve Harvey best seller, THINK LIKE A MAN is a smart, amusing sex comedy where 4 women try to get their men to change by applying the rules in the book to their relationships. When the men learn about this conspiracy, they try to turn the tables. It is a satisfyingly acted and plotted entertainment. Standout is Taraji P. Henson who raised BENJAMIN BUTTON (2008)from "infancy." She plays a sexy, corporate mogul who wouldn't dream of dating a younger man, much less one who is unemployed. It is refreshing to see a film that features a mostly African American cast where there are no gangsters, drug dealers, pimps, ghetto talk or Atlanta housewives. GRADE-------B
Shown last year at SIFF, NATURAL SELECTION had a brief run last week. When a woman realizes that her husband has fathered a child through a sperm bank --the reason he hasn't touched her sexually for many years--she sets out on a road trip to find him and bring him back to meet his biological father. The characters are determinedly "white trash" in language and attitude, and I hated the first hour. But as the characters start to learn about each other, we learn, and start to care, about them. It's a strange mix of humor, pathos and drama, but by the end it becomes moving. GRADE--------B---
______________ DVD SELECTIONS OF THE WEEK ______________
One of my favorite actresses stars in HOT MILLIONS (1968). Maggie Smith nearly steals every movie she's in, and this one is no exception. I'm normally no fan of Peter Ustinov, but he was pretty funny in this one, and Karl Malden has his moments. It is amusing to see how they try to steal from a "computer"----a giant boxy machine. Obviously dated, but still sly and sweet. GRADE--------B-
James Cagney stars in "G" MEN (1935)--a no nonsense action film about an FBI agent trying to avenge a friend's death. It was fun to watch, if rather routine. GRADE-----B-
CITY OF CONQUEST (1940) features James Cagney as a (short) boxer, with a classical musician brother and a faithful girlfriend (Ann Sheridan), but it wasn't very believable. GRADE-------C
The 6th film of Natalie Wood that I've seen this month is INSIDE DAISY CLOVER (1965). In spite of the fact that Alan J. Pakula produced and Robert Mulligan directed, and Robert Redford, Roddy McDowall and Christopher Plummer are in the cast, the film is an odd, trite story of a young (!?) 15 year old woman (a miscast Wood--she was a whopping 27 years old at the time) who makes it to the top in show biz, then back down again, in two years. It is trite, cliched and very nearly a dud. Only the quirky, ornery Ruth Gordon emerges unscathed. GRADE------D
COMING NEXT WEEK---THE FIRST REPORTS FROM THE Seattle International Film Festival 2012!!!
This years BRIDESMAIDS, in theme, at least, is the warm and hilarious comedy THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT, which features a wonderful coupling of two very likable actors--Jason Segel (TV's HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER) and Emily Blunt (see the delightful SALMON FISHING IN YEMEN). It is directed by Nicholas Stoller, who made one of my favorite recent comedies GET HIM TO THE GREEK (2010). The opening 20 minutes is a riot, and the final 20 minutes is very sweetly memorable, and in between it is funny, moving, charming, and immensely entertaining. GRADE--------A-
Film makers Luc and Jean Pierre Dardenne have made a number of memorable films together, many of them featuring children. These include LA PROMESSE (1996), ROSETTA (1999), and L'INFANT (2005). Their new film KID WITH A BIKE also features a young boy who has been abandoned by his birth father and turns to a single hairstylist for attention. Actor Jeremie Renier has appeared in most of their films, ---in L'ENFANT he played the father who tries to sell his baby for money, without the mother knowing. In KID he's the flaky father, and it almost plays like a sequel to that earlier heart breaking film. KID W/ A BIKE is another moving look at struggling children looking for love (see LA PROMESSE and ROSETTA). GRADE-------B
THE FAIRY (LA FEE) is a charming, slapstick, nearly silent French film created by actor/writer/producers Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon and Bruno Romy, the team responsible for L'ICEBERG (2005) and RUMBA (2008), and the three films are very much in the same style. The sets are whimsical, the actors deadpan and engaging, and the stories are sweet, quirky and at times funny. The humor may not be appreciated by everyone--sometimes, if you do not have the patience to wait for the payoffs in each scene, you may grow weary of watching. But you have to admire the creative world that each film creates. Like Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton, the pratfalls are everything and the characters are always endearing. You can give me these films any day over the manipulative THE ARTIST. GRADE-------B
Based on the Steve Harvey best seller, THINK LIKE A MAN is a smart, amusing sex comedy where 4 women try to get their men to change by applying the rules in the book to their relationships. When the men learn about this conspiracy, they try to turn the tables. It is a satisfyingly acted and plotted entertainment. Standout is Taraji P. Henson who raised BENJAMIN BUTTON (2008)from "infancy." She plays a sexy, corporate mogul who wouldn't dream of dating a younger man, much less one who is unemployed. It is refreshing to see a film that features a mostly African American cast where there are no gangsters, drug dealers, pimps, ghetto talk or Atlanta housewives. GRADE-------B
Shown last year at SIFF, NATURAL SELECTION had a brief run last week. When a woman realizes that her husband has fathered a child through a sperm bank --the reason he hasn't touched her sexually for many years--she sets out on a road trip to find him and bring him back to meet his biological father. The characters are determinedly "white trash" in language and attitude, and I hated the first hour. But as the characters start to learn about each other, we learn, and start to care, about them. It's a strange mix of humor, pathos and drama, but by the end it becomes moving. GRADE--------B---
______________ DVD SELECTIONS OF THE WEEK ______________
One of my favorite actresses stars in HOT MILLIONS (1968). Maggie Smith nearly steals every movie she's in, and this one is no exception. I'm normally no fan of Peter Ustinov, but he was pretty funny in this one, and Karl Malden has his moments. It is amusing to see how they try to steal from a "computer"----a giant boxy machine. Obviously dated, but still sly and sweet. GRADE--------B-
James Cagney stars in "G" MEN (1935)--a no nonsense action film about an FBI agent trying to avenge a friend's death. It was fun to watch, if rather routine. GRADE-----B-
CITY OF CONQUEST (1940) features James Cagney as a (short) boxer, with a classical musician brother and a faithful girlfriend (Ann Sheridan), but it wasn't very believable. GRADE-------C
The 6th film of Natalie Wood that I've seen this month is INSIDE DAISY CLOVER (1965). In spite of the fact that Alan J. Pakula produced and Robert Mulligan directed, and Robert Redford, Roddy McDowall and Christopher Plummer are in the cast, the film is an odd, trite story of a young (!?) 15 year old woman (a miscast Wood--she was a whopping 27 years old at the time) who makes it to the top in show biz, then back down again, in two years. It is trite, cliched and very nearly a dud. Only the quirky, ornery Ruth Gordon emerges unscathed. GRADE------D
COMING NEXT WEEK---THE FIRST REPORTS FROM THE Seattle International Film Festival 2012!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)