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Reviews
It Lives Inside (2023)
Amazing Story, Slow Pace
What a great story highlighting family, tradition, religion, and culture! What a blessing it would have been if they would have told it a little faster. The pacing felt a bit slow. The dialogue is slow in areas and there are moments where it felt like the story was spinning it's wheels.
There are moments where we gain momentum just to slow it down again. It's almost as if the script notes repeatedly said "slowly." "Take your time," was the underlying theme of this film which they certainly did.
I would love to see a sequel with more visual references of Hindu history and Indian culture, especially parts that have been distorted by western culture. Hopefully they make it tighter so the pacing doesn't feel so glacial, leaving us cold.
Skinamarink (2022)
Wow
Struggling to find the words. For me, the films felt like more of an art installation. The mainstream theater didn't seem like the right venue for this.
It would make great supporting footage to a feature. However, it did not feel right (to me) as a standalone feature. It's reminiscent of the video (support footage) used to terrify viewers within The Ring film.
Maybe it was meant to feel torturous, but it was a bit disconcerting to realize that whatever I thought was an amazing intro was going to last for the duration of the film. So... wow. It's such great footage and I just know there is a better use for it than a typical theater feature presentation.
Mack & Rita (2022)
Good Shot!
Obviously, an incredible cast and filming crew. Unfortunately, for me, the main character was incredibly hard (for me) to like. From the beginning, her tone, mannerisms, overall vibe were a bit obnoxious.
It was difficult to root for her because she annoyed me. Once the actresses switched, I confirmed that it was indeed just the character, not the actresses.
It's a relatable story, but I can only wonder if pre-therapy, early 30's me would have enjoyed it more.
The Golden Teacher (2021)
Certified Raw
The Golden Teacher vividly depicts the self-inventory that every person needs to do in order to be a better human. The raw emotion of the main character, who did a brilliant job, hits you in the gut especially if you've ever been there in your life. There is no sugar-coating here, just a real human having a real moment.
The cinematography gives you many angles mirroring the sentiment of showing the whole person. The film was casted very well and the sound is on point. Overall a nicely done short.
Chicago Party Aunt (2021)
Diane's a Screamer!
Diane's voice-over screams at you. It picks a level and stays there most of the time. I only made it halfway through the first ep and honestly have a bit of a headache. Combined with Diane's obnoxiously oblivious behavior, and it's unbearable for me. Hopefully they can go back and rework some things with the character. We need to love Diane from ep1 to be interested in the rest of her journey. We want root for her.
Otherwise, the animation is solid.