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Frozen River (2008)
Well-Crafted And Interesting, But No 'Lawrence Of Arabia'
Looking back on 'Frozen River', you can clearly see writer-director, Courtney Hunt has planned and executed it with her own clear, well thought-out intentions. Not only to show a tale of a woman in danger, but to provide a well crafted insight into an American life that many may not be aware of. From life in a Native American reservation to the smuggling of immigrants, it also explores some unexpected themes too. However I found the visuals and atmosphere very very depressing, notably a shot showing popcorn being served for dinner in a grim caravan. Although this is intended, it doesn't make for the greatest cinematic experience. I'd compare the film to the Ken Loach film 'Kes' in its tone and everyman/woman characters, although 'Frozen River' is slightly more uplifting.
Arrival (2016)
Thought-provoking and emotionally engaging but sometimes dull..
Arrival is definitely a thought provoking science-fiction film to say the least. With a real, rich development of its central character, Louise Banks. Visually and sound-wise it also excels to a certain extent, from slow gliding shots through fog to beaming white brightness accompanied by an eerie score by Jóhann Jóhannsson. However the film does suffer from a little too much melodrama, as almost every scene (some fairly uplifting) has a depressing side to it. Most of the time, this is Amy Adams who gives a very good but depressing performance. Denis Villeneuve's color pallet is also quite dull. Even in some of the happier scenes, a sterile, modern light is ever present.
By the end of it, I was amazed but really wanted to stick on a Wes Anderson film (I'm not even a big fan).
Fit (2010)
Some poor filmmaking...
'Fit' has an important message, this is that it really doesn't matter if your gay or straight. And the way it does this is quite clever, by taking more than half of dozen characters, developing them as gay and then in the next act, their sexuality is being questioned as they might not actually be gay (if that makes any sense). Intended to show that it doesn't really matter. But throughout the film, the constant use of cheesy guitar chords, confusing editing and worst of all bad acting puts this good technique to bed. Particularly from the guy who plays Jordan's boyfriend, who can't act to save his skin. There are also some really wobbly pieces of dialogue and some really generic directing. Sure, if you want 'an educational film', watch this. But if want you want a good film, don't.