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Reviews
The Dark and the Wicked (2020)
Above average horror with creepy atmosphere
Decent horror which builds tension over time and has a good payoff at the end. There were a number of unexplained plot holes, although these could have been intentional to let the viewer fill in the gaps. The characters and plot are not very memorable, but at least the cinematography and acting make up for it. Throughout the film you are filled with a sense of unease and maybe fear, depending on how easily frightened you are. I wouldn't expect this film to get any awards, but if you are looking for a slightly above average horror to pass an evening then this would be a solid choice. There are some interesting elements around end of life care and family dynamics, and the role of love in overcoming evil. There are some stand out scenes which probably help carry other less developed parts of the film.
As Above, So Below (2014)
Immersive horror trip into the Parisian catacombs
This was a very good iteration of the of the found footage horror genre. As someone else has written, it's a bit of a cross between Lara Croft, Blair Witch, and Dante's Inferno. That might sound like a bit of an odd combination, but it is wonderfully executed in this film. The plot was original and the acting convincing. However, where it really shined in my opinion was in the creepy and immersive music and sound effects, as well as the various scenes. Watching this in the dark at night, I was transported into the Parisian catacombs along with the characters. Next time I go caving I will definitely be recalling some of these scenes.
Hachigatsu no rapusodî (1991)
A day to remember
On August 9, 1945, the second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, killing perhaps 40,000 people in a flash (in japanese "pikadon"). This fact is probably known to most of us, being a part of history classes in school, but as a cold fact it doesn't speak to us. This film brings alive the emotions and thoughts of those who lived through that day, reminding us the audience of the sheer force and solemnity of the bomb. Most of the film follows an interaction between a grandmother and her grandchildren who learn about these events from her first hand. Meanwhile their parents have lost all perspective of what is important, perhaps reflecting wider society today. The grandmother is acted out tremendously, at times talking little but saying it all. Every shot is beautifully constructed and artful, as might be expected from a Kurosawa film. Highly recommend for Kurosawa fans and those interested in gaining an insight on this piece of world history.
Bringing Out the Dead (1999)
The Sixth Sense but with Nic Cage, what's not to like
Nicolas Cage plays a paramedic who is gradually losing his grip on reality. We see how the job takes its toll on him, leading to lack of sleep, irregular eating, chasing adrenaline highs, and a deep sense of guilt for those he could not save. Each of his colleagues he goes out on calls with have their unique personalities and coping mechanisms, which play out in interesting dynamics on screen. There are some instances of classic over-the-top Cage acting, though not as many as in some of his other movies. The musical score wasn't as good as it could be, which detracted from the overall quality of the film. The setting of night time New York in the late 90s showed just how hard life on the streets could be, and how everyday people lived their lives. The shots and film sequences captured the chaos and raw emotions I imagine paramedics confront daily. Varying levels of stress pervaded the entire film. Recommended watch for Nic Cage fans and those looking for an emotional rollercoaster of a drama.
Samurai Sensei (2018)
Solid samurai comedy
A renowned samurai, Takechi Hanpeita, is catapulted 150 years into the future into modern day Japan. With the help of newly met friends, he figures out how to navigate a hyper-advanced technological home country which has nonetheless maintained some of its core cultural values. This is a light hearted family friendly film, mixed with funny and heartfelt moments, character development, and a revealing glimpse into Japanese history and customs. Hanpeita is a very charismatic protagonist, wearing his heart on his sleeve. There's a healthy dash of patriotism sprinkled in and a dynamic, jazzy soundtrack.
Mad God (2021)
Stop motion dystopian vision of our world
At first I was on the fence about watching this film having read some of the reviews on here, but in the end I am glad I did. This film doesn't exactly have a plot and is definitely a slow burner, so if that's not your thing then be forewarned. What it does have is exquisitely detailed, nightmarish puppets and sets portraying a vision of modern society and the near future. A dark ambiance and haunting soundtrack envelop a lonesome figure traversing fearsome landscapes. At times I wondered about the sanity and mental wellbeing of the creator of this masterpiece, but perhaps it's more a reflection of their ability to caricature and exaggerate the shadow of today's world. The scenes reminded me a bit of Hieronymus Bosch paintings. I must admit I left the film feeling a bit uneasy.
The Mosquito Coast (1986)
Mad inventor set loose in the jungle
Harrison Ford plays a real force of nature with egomaniacal tendencies. Critical of the society he sees around himself, he sets off into the jungle to establish a better world, pulling his family along with him. Ford's acting of a self-absorbed genius is complemented well by the demureness and worship from his wife and children. Ford's character is a figurative biblical Adam figure beginning a new society. This film reminded me a little of Werner Herzog's Woyzeck in the mad pursuit of delusional fantasises and the dream-like fantasy quality of the settings. Some of the cinematic shots looked like paintings in how the colours and objects were laid out. The soundtrack is also well executed and immersive.