Day: April 11, 2012
2012 in Film: #90 – Chungking Express
2012 in Film: #90
Chungking Express (1994) | Directed by Wong Kar-Wai
Grade: A
Thoughts: Wong Kar-Wai’s gorgeously shot and wonderfully told film is also incredibly romantic. taking to unrelated stories and putting them together in a city where the paradox of loneliness in a crown is exemplified by the film’s leading characters. Great acting and cinematography. Choice of music, such as “Dreams” by the Cranberries and “California Dreamin’”, is expertly utilized in the film. Incredible film.
2012 in Film: #89 – Young Adult
2012 in Film: #89
Young Adult (2011) | Directed by Jason Reitman
Grade: A
Thoughts: There are some people who grow up, and then there are those who simply do not. You cannot help but pity them a little, but when you meet Mavis Gary, you will think for a moment, “No wonder why her life sucks.” Schadenfreude aside, Reitman, Cody, Theron, and Oswalt make a passed-out-from-intoxication black comedy into something that shines. Its characters are meticulously constructed by Cody, acutely performed by Theron and Oswalt, and scathing portrayed on the screen by Reitman. In the end, in a strange way, you can’t help but love to hate these people. So, they’re damaged. So, they’re emotionally stunted. Growing up is hard to do, especially for these two.
2012 in Film: #88 – To Catch a Thief
2012 in Film: #88
To Catch a Thief (1955) | Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Grade: B+
Thoughts: Searing with sexuality and innuendo in every line of dialogue, Hitchcock’s witty and fun caper film is one not to miss. Just as whimsical asThe Lady Vanishes, the film showcases some glorious cinematography, some exquisite costumes, and some fantastic acting from Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. The two are perfect together. Very enjoyable romp.
2012 in Film: #87 – Hunger
2012 in Film: #87
Hunger (2008) | Directed by Steve McQueen
Grade: B+
Thoughts: Disturbing and contemplative, with each moving frame a thing of beauty or a thing of fear. Michael Fassbender gives a terrific performance. However, if you are unfamiliar with the historical context of the film, some of the emotion might be lost on you, and thus won’t ring as resonant.
2012 in Film: #86 – Mildred Pierce (2011)
2012 in Film: #86
Mildred Pierce (2011) | Directed by Todd Haynes
Grade: A
Thoughts: Mildred Pierce is the closest thing anyone will ever get to a transliteration of any novel. However, as surprising and refreshing as that is, the lead performances are what make the series so incredible. Kate Winslet is at her best playing Mildred, showing her off as both vulnerable and strong. Morgan Turner and Evan Rachel Wood portray Veda as the archetypal bitch, and so very well. Their clashing and individual lives intertwining like barbed wire makes the final episodes soapy and delicious. Though the pacing is slow at times, it is arguably one of the best book to screen adaptations ever. Astounding in every sense of the word, Mildred Pierce delivers.
I Like Things That Look Like Mistakes 