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Reviews
Kinds of Kindness (2024)
Wow, so sad that I hardly know where to start with this one....
I haven't seen anything this disturbing and disappointing for years. I've been a movie fan for so many decades, partially because I worked in film as a cinematographer and director for years. I guess I'm old school - I expect something to have some resonance, some relevance, or even just some base entertainment value but this film was so random and senseless that I stopped watching about half way through, and that's literally a first. Excellent actors, and I've seen other really solid and interesting work by both the writer and director. I kept thinking: what kind of world are we living in that this passes for 'cinema'? No redeeming characters, message, or even technical substance. Sorry, I guess I just don't get it....what could anyone truly feel that they've gained by watching this odd, surreal, disturbing and pointless bit of media? Honestly, because so much of the world population is now spending time streaming content (instead of interacting with other humans in person), I'm really feeling disillusioned by this content. I can't imagine what the actors saw in the script that prompted them to sign on.
Land (2021)
Not an accurate depiction, but a beautiful and insightful film nonetheless...
To me, more than anything else, this is a story of friendship. It's also an examination of one's 'relationship with self', as one's connection with their normal life has been abruptly and unexpectedly altered. It's a tender and touching tale, and its personal and intimate detailing of that emotional transformation is wonderful and poignant.
The cinematography and acting are also truly excellent, ...just be aware that what you see, as beautiful and idyllic as it is - is not very indicative of 'real life in the wilderness'.
From the perspective of someone who lives in Canada (not too far from where this was shot), and who is living remotely, I can tell you that the depiction of Edee's existence in the wild is not at all accurate. Anyone who's heated and cooked with wood, realizes how much is used each day will tell you how unrealistic this is (the small pile in the cabin is obviously 'bucked up' to consistent lengths, with a chainsaw). Seeing her carrying a couple of 5 gallon water containers indicates another serious over simplification. Just to water her garden (which obviously does not have local/native soil) , she'd need a lot of trips, not to mention the amount required to take a 'Moon Bath'.....Then there's the issue of storing freshly butchered meat without any means of refrigeration, not even a root cellar, having accessibility in deep winter snow, (without plowing) Although there are really too many of these considerations to list here, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed the film. If you can ignore these, it is an immersive celebration of isolation in harmony with the natural world. So many great moments, lines of dialog, breathtaking elements of natural lighting.....A real treasure. Emotionally engaging and well worth experiencing.
Keeping Faith (2017)
The acting is truly next level, great script and cinematography
I just had to write a review, as I was so impressed and moved by the acting, especially that of Eve Myles.
Everything feels so real, emotional and even unscripted. The interactions speak to many aspects of the human condition, in ways that I have rarely seen in any movies or series in the past. The writing and casting are also excellent, as is the cinematography. I really enjoyed the music compositions and choices as well, which are, in many ways - quite unconventional.
I have to give credit to the director. Obviously, Pip Broughton has amazing instincts and talents, in making the decision to allow the actors so much improvisation and what seem like impromptu happenings and magical little moments, which one often experiences in life, yet rarely sees in film.
Just blown away by this unique series. I wish more of the content out there had this type of integrity and humanity.
Season 2 didn't quite live up to the bar set by Season 1, but that's no reason not to devour the first.....
The Umbrella Man (2016)
A story dealing with denial and conspiracy...
For me, The Umbrella Man is a movie focussing on a character who is in total denial of personal tragedy and loss. Because of this, he is willing to consider any form of distraction, leading him to an obsession of something completely unrelated. His struggle makes parts of the film a bit hard to watch. The character struggles and exhibits escalating, self-destructive behaviour. At first, the film only hints at the backstory. During the course of the film, we watch the character going to extremes and totally alienating himself from those who love him. It's a wild, unpredictable ride, with some tumultuous turns, as his life seems to be going downhill, and his grip on reality is questionable.
A great watch, engaging and unpredictable.
In the end, to me, it all comes together in a few simple words, uttered by Jackie Kennedy. What better way to end a journey!?