Goosegirl14 Reviews

Rust and Bone (2012)

Utter perfection

[10/10 · 22 May 2024]

It has taken me 12 years to watch this, despite knowing I wanted to when hearing about it 2012. I have no idea why, but I am so so glad that I have made time for this incredible film. It is truly beautiful, raw, highly emotive in all ways, and, in my personal view, flawless film making.

The cast are all unbelievable. I've been a huge Marion Cotillard fan for a while now- she never fails to give anything but a convincing, captivating and awe inspiring performance. Matthias is lesser know to me, but he matches cotillard on screen presence, and is clearly as talented an actor as she.

This film evokes all the emotions and never feels manipulative. It is a gripping story with complex and believable characters. Despite how excellent it is in all ways (one loses oneself completely and becomes deeply invested in the characters), it seems effortless. Natural. Fluent.

I loathe violence, and even though there are some heavy fight scenes,they are integral to the plot and character development. The sensitivity and tenderness balance the aggression out, and so I could handle it.

I'll definitely be watching more films by this director and seek out other works which involve the writers, and cast.

Civil War (2024)

Still processing.....

[8/10 · 14 April 2024]

I am finding it really hard to work out how I feel about this film, because it evoked so much emotion and sent my mind into rapid fire questions, commentary and reflection. The things I can say I feel sure about: the performances were excellent. All the actors were pretty well cast, and their skill level ensured that this film was far from a 'just another bang bang/war/apocalyptic (?)' film. Kirsten Dunst was brilliant and captured the character's experience extremely well, which i felt most informed my perspective running through each scene.

Having said that, i do think the other characters were fairly generic (not a criticism because i don't think character is at all the central point or intended focus of Garland), so many great actors of similar ilk could have portrayed them as well. The cinematography was incredible. The soundscape/track and way it was shot created devastation and shattering of beauty. Horror and chaos, became almost artistic and this is where my conflict begins. I may be swayed in my perspective, but I did feel that early on in the film that the music selected to partner certain footage/scenes did maybe glorify the killing? To highlight the disregard for human life felt, and thrill certain soldiers were getting from the act of killing didn't require the backing track chosen. I felt the director was almost complete wanting us as an audience to get a buzz from their barbarity?

Having said that, the films does clearly want to show the audience a true nightmare that feels horribly close to our lives atm. I definitely couldn't stop thinking 'this must be what people in ..... are currently experiencing' and it is a chilling and vital reminder of what is happening right now in so many places and that we could so easily and quickly descend into this state.

I know it was intentional but I did find the lack of explanation for who was fighting who and their agendas or motives made if difficult to follow in a way. I can see the strength in this-it shows the mindlessness and lost meaning of it all. At some points characters say they don't know whose 'side' the people they're shooting at are on. This isn't what matters to them. Only killing them before they get killed. It illustrates the way people are dehumanised, particularly in masses. The press crew we're following throughout are constantly struggling to numb themselves by shrugging off the deaths they witness, while their humanity and regard for life simultaneously fights to overwhelm them. Because i didn't have a clue what the war was about and both sides seemed simply set upon killing, it was at times me watching people shooting and bombing other people, and although this lack of explanation or clear narrative may be the point, this type of film is not for me. I see war and the devastation on the news every day. Watching it with a musical score and artistically shot scenes of it all felt like gorging on poison.

If there is a need for audiences to be told war is terrifying and extremism and non communication is only going to lead to division and utter destruction and death then of course it is important people see this film and those similar to it. If anything can reach individuals and encourage peace and respect and compassion then I'm all for it. But, despite the incredible performances and quality of this film visually, I am unable to say it is neccesary. I know I don't feel portraying such depravity is the best way to create empathy and communicate a message. But I AM open to correction and know i'm far from qualified to critique films. I'll be interested to hear interviews with Alex Garland, and the thoughts and reactions of critics and people who's opinion I respect.

God's Creatures (2022)

Compromise in the name of love

[7/10 · 28 March 2024]

This film is what I suppose the term 'quiet' is intended. It makes no effort to introduce the audience to place, circumstances, or time. We are presented with a young man (played by current favourite, Paul Mescal) who is seemingly returning to his small Irish home community after a substantial time of absence.

It is clear that his return raises varying emotions in family members and others in the community. We get a sense that there is a lot of tension under the surface, and relationships with particular people are strained but never explained.

Alongside Brian's arrival, the film portrays a hardworking, financially vulnerable community, dependant on the fishing/oyster gathering industry (? If apologies if this is incorrect terminology/surmisation?). It is a bleak watch, and I would understand if many abandoned it. Had I been in a different mood I may have done so.

However, there was enough intrigue created, for me to stick with it and see what was going to unfold. I was pleased that , unlike some films of this ilk, it was actually building to an incident which then forces certain characters to make decisions that compromise their values and question their loyalties.

It is subtle, perhaps too much so for me personally, but it is very authentic, and I believe an accurate depiction of how a victim can become an outcast if the perpetrator is within a community's heart. It raises many important questions, and does offer some satisfying realisations and declarations.

The themes are not new, but they continue, unfortunately to be very relevant and problematic today. So it is great that filmmakers are continuing to address these issues and keep people discussing and reflecting upon the treatment of women, how we deal with sexual assault, especially when the perpetrator is liked, family or /& 'one of our own'.

Femme (2023)

What Oscars should be made for

[9/10 · 14 March 2024]

I'd heard an interview with both George Mackay and Nathan Stuart-Jarrett about their experiences on set and during the filming of Femme, and was intrigued. Previously, Mackay has played pretty easy to like, or ar least average/'ordinary' character. He comes across as a,fairly gentle soul.

His performance in Femme is testament to his acting talent. He embodies a violent, intimidating man, who is almost unrecognisable from the actor as I'd had previously perceived him. When an actor can truly transform in the way he does, it is incredible to watch.

The film focuses on two main characters, one openly queer and immersed in the sphere of free expression of identity and gender and sexuality. The other, is caught up in a very toxic, aggressive, and closed minded circle, who are hostile to any 'non-traditional'/-patriarchal gender and sexual stereotypes. When these two characters collide, we witness devastating, moving and captivating consequences. Each is thrown into the other's completely foreign 'world', and the film explores how they navigate this- the impact it has upon their perceptions and relationships with themselves and those around them.

Nathan Stuart-Jarrett is lesser known than Mackay, but totally matches his skills at portraying a hugely complex character who is respond to life changing experiences. It is believable, tragic, beautiful, crushing and so so worthy of attention and praise.

Past Lives (2023)

My rating keeps changing!

[7/10 · 2 March 2024]

Obviously there's been a huge amount of praise thrown at this film, and so I came to it with hopeful, fairly high expectations. Which maybe why I didn't feel 'blown away' by it. It is excellent in many ways- the performances, the naturalism, the characterisation, etc.

The relationship the film explores is one that is very relatable, and the emotions and questions raised can I'm sure be recognised and are frequently experienced by most audience members. The high authenticity and realism is what I imagine makes it receive so many plaudits.

I value films that are contemplative and through acting and script alone, Past Lives certainly made its impact. I can appreciate why it is recognised as very well done and cannot criticise it, BUT, on a personal level, I wasn't as impressed as the majority seem to be. My expectations may have something to do with why I can't get as enthusiastic as the critics.

However, although I remain prepared to rewatch and change my mind, for now it is definitely not one of my films of the year. 'Emperor's new clothes ' even sprang to mind which probably is more a reflection on me being a philistine than the objective view. It is beautiful visually, melancholy, frustrating, truthful, heart wrenching, relatable, but not highly original IMHO.

Bob Marley: One Love (2024)

I feel the love!

[7/10 · 19 February 2024]

It took me a while to get into and fully appreciate this film. I was really keen to see it, but felt a bit concerned that the trailer I'd been forced to watch (at a previous cinema trip) had given away far too much. *

One Love was definitely similar in many ways to what I gathered- a study of Bob Marley's impact on the world and politics via his music and determined effort to communicate and build bridges via lyrics and melody and the messages he injected into them.

However, it was not a linear biopic. In fact it takes a very small segment of Marley's life and has some flashbacks to his childhood and late youth to help give us a greater insight into how he reached the mindset, circumstances and position he was in. I think I may have become a little impatient and abandoned the film if I'd been watching at home. But thank goodness for cinema, because it really got under my skin eventually and I became so enamoured by him, and invested in the relationships being portrayed, and his wellbeing. I'm by no means a huge Marley fan, or I wasn't, but I now have an even deeper respect and a new found interest in him and his values and outlook. I don't know how accurate it was, but for me, the man captured in this film was a beautiful soul who knew so clearly and simply his own heart. He was a man extremely connected to his values and lived by them more than any religious leader I've learnt about.

I recognise this film's is flawed- the trajectory it runs is messy in my opinion. I do understand why some may find it too 'quiet' /subtle, and be frustrated by the pace or lack of 'explosive' moments. But, if like me you allow yourself to be swallowed by the film and go with its flow, I guarantee you'll find it a really worthwhile watch and walk out loving Bob marley with a capital L!!!!!

*Rant: why do so many trailers give away basically the entire film? They should tantalise, give one a few 'drops' of the film's essence so that we get a hint of the vibe and story etc but NOT a complete breakdown of the whole film!!! I deliberately arrive 20mins after thr advertised start time of a screening now just to dodge the trailers and have future cinema trips ruined.

The Zone of Interest (2023)

A horror film

[8/10 · 6 February 2024]

This is such a tough film to rate.* I had such a strong emotional response to it. I have seen many films during and about the holocaust, and it is inevitably an emotive time to reflect upon.

However, what struck me is how totally disgusted I felt. I generally find myself perceiving the smallest of glimmers of 'good' in the darkest of characters. Circumstances and experiences don't excuse actions but they can explain them and I rarely feel such visceral loathing towards anyone. The family and most of the other characters we see in this film don't immediately present as 'bad' people. But knowing what is going on only meters from their home, and watching them be completely supportive of and/or unaffected by the horrors occurring under their noses, makes them abhorrent.

The more at ease the family seemed to be, and pleasant their lifestyle, the more monstrous they became to me. It truly is a sickening experience to sit through even 20mins of ZOI. This is undoubtedly an extremely important film, and definitely a chapter in history that must be examined, condemned and forewarned by. But i also felt a little like i was watching depravity, despite the lack of violence or explicit cruelty shown. I understood very quickly that the film's approach of observing this family go about their lives in knowing or somewhat ignorant bliss was in a way more powerful than confronting the audience with torture and images of what was unseen. What isn't present in so may ways (the death and inhumane acts and shocking cruelty) is louder and more present that what plays out in front of our eyes.

Sorry. This isn't really a review or helpful, more a reactionary splurge. This is a horror film, and there is no light at all. I found no characters likeable. It is therefore a very grim watch. A 'slap in the face', reiterating how depraved humans are capable of being. I also feel even more aware of and guilty about how my own circumstances mirror the family I felt such disdain towards. The home could represent the 'West'/any society lucky enough to not be facing war or famine or floods, or living under a dictatorship. The atrocities that are currently occuring in Israel and Palestine, the Ukraine and much of the Middle East to name a few areas, could be said to parallel the suffering experienced and unseen in ZOI. I can't stop thinking about this film, and feeling constantly ill at ease whenever i get caught up in my own petty concerns or distress. Whilst not complicit in nor unaffected by the Wars and pain and fear of those living under awful regimes or in inhospitable environments, I am so so sheltered. I do carry on and indulge at times, even take for granted my privilege. The Zone of Interest highlights this greatly and I it is invaluable for doing so.

*In fact I'm finding rating films increasingly difficult because so much is about taste and does a strong emotional response mean something is 'good'. I can appreciate so many films for their content and intellect, or importance and production value, but they can leave me unmoved/satiated, or simply I found them a tedious or disappointing watch.

Anatomy of a Fall (2023)

Anatomy of a damaging marriage

[9/10 · 4 February 2024]

I feel ill-equipped to give a proper/intellectual review, because I'm just someone who loves cinema and film, so I apologise for not being more sophisticated or highbrow. What I can share is the impact the film had upon me and my philistine thoughts.

I've been extremely keen to watch this for a long while, partly because of the rave reviews and partly because I generally love a courtroom drama and mystery. This film certainly contains all the best qualities of a drama for me. The characters are complex, the performances are brilliant but natural and subtle. The story/lives we see are believable, and it has a compelling story.

Unlike a film such as 'The Holdovers' or 'The lives of others' I didn't finish feeling overwhelmed and fulfilled in that 'wow' way. But, I totally enjoyed it, was thoroughly engaged and have since watching, found myself thinking about it a lot. I definitely want to talk about it and watch it again. There is so much in it that I do agree that it is a film that could be discussed and deserves multiple viewings. I'm so intrigued to hear other's perspective because I find myself now questionning the conclusion I came to in my head immediately after I finished it. I also need to underline that yes, it is about the understanding what actually happened literally to cause the 'fall'.

However, the complexity of the central relationship; the events that occurred and; the conversations that were had leading up to and following it are the biggest question and aspects that cause me to keep revisiting the narrative and scenes in my mind.

A film that is subtle and unflashy, but, if your kind of thing, will definitely hit hard and repeat on you for a long while afterwards. I hate this phrase but it is fitting in this instance: it is a meaty film!

One Life (2023)

Outstanding performances

[8/10 · 29 January 2024]

Sir Anthony Hopkins is amazing! I know aging isn't an illness, nor is it right to patronise anyone of a certain age, but generally the body and mind get pretty exhausted and naturally, the majority of us find/will find we tire more easily and short term memory, plus processing is perhaps a little more of an effort/slower. I am, and have never not been awed by Hopkins' acting abilities. He is utterly convincing and seems to embody the characters he plays deeply, getting into their mindset and gaining an understanding of whoever he plays perspective. In One Life, despite being 86yrs old, he continues to be nothing less that outstanding.

In fact, all the main cast were excellent and almost noone took me out of the story and into that state of awareness whereby one is watching actors performing, this taking the focus off the action and characters, and out of the world/drama the film is aiming to encapsulate its audience in.

The film reveals a hugely important element of the 2nd world war, and spotlights men and women who were beyond courageous, dedicated, inspiring and incredible examples of the human race! I was utterly humbled by the extraordinary actions they took and the lives they saved and enabled to thrive. It is yet another example of how film can teach not just history, but also remind us of our responsibilities, privilege, and create empathy where it may not have existed previously. I couldn't help drawing parallels with the wars currently happening in Israel and the Ukraine, to name only 2 of many, and the refugees seeking asylum in the UK. History continues to read itself because humans fail to learn from what has gone before, sadly.

As is obvious from my words so far, I found this very affecting and think it deserves to be viewed and admired by as many people as possible. I couldn't score more than an 8 because there were some minor elements that very slightly weakened it. That said, I will highly recommend it to friends and family.

Alone Together (I) (2022)

6 .5 shiny stars

[6/10 · 26 January 2024]

I feel I have been a bit harsh on this film, as I did really enjoy watching I, and found it to be a bit better than reviews had me believe.

It wasn't a wholly original premise, although the Lockdown element added something fresh. I can understand this film isn't for those who like high action or a steady flow of punchy one liners.

However, despite the gentle pace, no huge peaks or troughs, and a pretty tame/simple concept, I was fully engaged throughout the film and thought it was very watchable. Yes, big things are ignored, or/& wrapped up/over before they're really ever a 'thing ', but I just liked being in the company of the characters and watching them navigate the pandemic with existing stresses and life situations.

I'd not deter anyone from watching this, and I appreciated most performances. But, its not something I'd rave about either. I think it's best being one of those films you stumped across and decide to give a try, and end up having a pleasant 90mins viewing experience.

The Holdovers (2023)

My kind of film exactly!

[10/10 · 23 January 2024]

I'd heard many positive things about this film and from the little I let myself know of the synopsis (I prefer to go into films/plays, etc as naive as possible), it sounded like one I would also enjoy. That is to say- I went into the cinema with cautious excitement and fairly hopeful that The Holdovers would be a great watch.

It definitely was!

It had all the right ingredients, from; excellent actors, who all gave incredible, convincing performances; witty and smart script; brilliant production, casting and set; &, a plot that could have ended up as a smulchfest in the wrong hands, but instead told a well balanced, heart-warming and, at times, heart-aching story.

I hate feeling manipulated by art- if a am aware of all the 'strings' being pulled to try and force me into having specific emotional responses, for me that's poor film making. The best kind are those that I become completely submerged in and the characters, action and dialogue work beautifully to evoke feelings to arise within in me. The Holdovers definitely did this. This, to me, is a Christmas film and already, it is a top one in my estimation!

No Hard Feelings (2023)

If things were reversed?!?

[4/10 · 19 January 2024]

I am a little confused. Yes, there were some good elements to this film- the performances were all pretty good, and it looked good. There was a bit of charm, perhaps? The odd comment or remark that was slightly funny.

However, can you imagine what would be said if a film was about parents hiring a man in his 30s to take their shy, socially awkward 18 year old daughter's virginity. Then have a large portion of the scenes shaming her for not having sex with him because she wasn't ready? There would, rightly do, be uproar.

So, why is this marketed as funny and acceptable when the 18 year old is a male? Yes, he may be at the age of consent, but if someone says they're not ready nomatter how old they are. It shouldn't be framed as funny or geekish? I felt uncomfortable watching this for these and other reasons.

The other problem I have with it, is that it is a bit of a mess. I love a romcom if it's done very well, but this one was not. It was scatty and there was no real depth. I didn't care about any characters. Basically, I thought it was a bit weird. And it was made in 2000 or the 90s?!

Passages (2023)

AKA: A Study of a Narcissist

[8/10 · 15 January 2024]

I'd heard how good this film was, but read very little about the film's plot or themes prior to watching it. I'm glad I didn't because it needs no explanation and works best, in my view if you go in naive.

This way, the characters and the 'decisions' made have even more of a punch. I guess I'm mainly talking about Tomas. It's hard not to! His utterly selfish and self absorbed behaviour comes, i think from a desperate need for attention. For wanting to always be the centre of it, and so it is galling to find, as an audience member, he is so fascinating and impossible to ignore. I certainly didn't want to give him what he wanted after when watching him repeatedly treat those he pulls into his web so cruelly and carelessly. The strength of feeling I felt whilst viewing the film, is a testament to how excellent it is. I love that despite the horrendous treatment of Tomas' lovers, they are not portrayed as weak or victims.

Passages is full of brilliant performances. Highlights abuse of a non physical, but still extremely destructive nature. Its emotive and a captivating watch.

She Came to Me (2023)

You'll love it of you love this kind of film

[8/10 · 12 January 2024]

I really enjoyed this. It was non formulaic, intriguing. I found it thought provoking and engaging. I can understand it is not going to appeal to those who like fast-paced or action films. But, I imagine those drawn to selecting this are not looking for that.

Even though it isn't a suspenseful storyline, I was always involved with the characters and story. The actors were all excellent. I love Marissa Tomei and Peter Dinklage, and they retained their high estimation in my mind. It is hard to articulate the brilliant vibe streaming through this movie- I'll give it a go.....there is a perfect balance of cynicism, heart, dark humour and surprising. I loved that i cared so much about some of the characters, and I think this enabled me to be invested throughout in the way the events would unfold.

Watchable and thought provoking, honest and a little off beat without trying to hard to be 'quirky'. I will definitely watch more films by this director.

Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

A challenging one to review

[7/10 · 7 January 2024]

I am not religious, but the words 'utterly wicked' kept entering my head as I watched the cold, greedy and brutality reigned upon the Osage people.

This film aims to capture, of course, a very important account of just a fragment of the devastating impact so many who settled in America had upon the first nations people. Scorcese has certainly not shied away from depicting the violence, but also the almost systematic, organised intentional killing by the 'white man'. It is heartbreaking and ignited such rage and disillusionment in me. I know humans can be very cruel and do awful things, but generally I'm someone who believes that most of us are good, but in extreme circumstances we can make very bad or even inexplicable choices.

However, this is a bit like Schindlers list, or 12 years a slave, when my heart feels despairing. As is clear from my comments so far, the film was very successful in emotionally engaging me. The acting was mostly brilliant, and the set, cinematography etc were undoubtedly impressive (which, with such a huge budget & talented director/crew, I'd expected).

I am glad it was made and definitely film/drama, as well as entertainment, should be used as the powerful instrument it is, to create empathy, educate, and encourage the audience to take a new perspective and challenge our world view/existing beliefs.

But, as I think many have said, I definitely feel this was in need of editing down into a sharper film. Or, it would have worked better as a miniseries done slightly differently. I am guilty of not being concise, so I get the difficulty of trimming down what one creates, but I also think as such a seasoned film maker, Scorcese/his team made a weaker film because they couldn't or wouldn't make intelligent necessary cuts. I worry some will be turned off and turn off due to the length and how drawn out it is.

Something else I felt uncomfortable with was the portrayal of Ernest. While he was certainly not shown to be a good man, there is a strong leaning, I felt, to cast him as more of a manipulated victim of his uncle (I'm sure many felt huge pressure to take actions that they knew were heinous), which attempts to dilute/explain his huge part in the mass murder of Osage People. Obviously it cannot be ignored that these things, and people are complex. Plus I know it would be cheap to make complete villains of all one group and victims of another.

However, I worry that there was too much attention paid to his story, from HIS perspective, which took away somewhat from the atrocities he himself repeatedly committed. I will definitely do as I always do with films based on real events and people, and take a deep dive into the 'true story' that informed the script/account. I hope very much that others, even if they don't watch it, or especially if they want to pass on the movie, are encouraged to read or listen and pay energy and attention to this dark time. History truly was white washed. And is certainly HIS-story in the main, and i feel as much as scorcese may have intended to change this, Killers of Flower Moon still felt laden with these same old dominant influences.

Good Grief (IV) (2023)

Admired the restraint

[8/10 · 6 January 2024]

A really perfectly balanced film. It would have been so easy to play it safe and make a typical 'bubblegum' movie, with guaranteed well rehearsed tropes and clichés. So I admire Dan Levy's restraint, and that he took a risk with a more subtle approach. It isn't, as I imagined, a romcom, rather, a gentle exploration of grief, friendship and complicated legacies. I found it quite emotive without sentimentality. I loathe feeling manipulated by film makers- when the music, sappiness and script so deliberately and blatantly are working their formulaic chops off in a contrived effort to control every reaction a viewer is having.

While I wasn't 'blown away' by this film, I was impressed and engaged. I suspect/hope that Levy will continue to create as well as act, and be a well regarded director/writer in his own right.

Finally, the performances were great and the chemistry between the 3 friends felt authentic. The script could have been sharper and, as much as I usually love Luke Evans, I thought his performance in this perhaps the weakest of all the cast. But these a minor criticisms. I understand it if isn't what some people drawn to the film were hoping/expecting , and can understand some disappointment. But, for me, it was just right in tone and I think Dan Levy will go from strength to strength.

Dream Scenario (2023)

Unforgettable & resonant!

[8/10 · 27 November 2023]

It has been said already that this film has similar notes/vibes to Eternal sunshine of a spotless mind, Being John Malkovich, The Truman Show, etc. I would agree. It kind of traps the viewer into the increasingly sinister and truly nightmarish story, which I am far too familiar with!

Unfortunately, I dream extremely vividly, and 85/90% of my dreams are extremely traumatic, and/or stressful, exhausting and emotional. So what played out in this film really seemed to echo my own 'nightmare scenario '. It definitely is emotive, thought provoking and relatable. As well as more of a horror than many more 'in your face'/ traditional horrors.

It taps into many of the deep fears most humans have....being rejected, despised for no reason. Being misunderstood , and losing what you value most. For me, these are far more terrifying than a bogeyman! It does away with those 'monster ' metaphors I guess?

Anyway, in terms of watchability- this definitely held my attention throughout, and all the performances are faultless as far as my naive eye could see. There is some real wit threaded throughout which adds lighter notes and makes to balance the darker elements. So many films are formulaic , or perfectly watchable but, admittedly, forgettable and merge.

Dream scenario, though, will certainly stay with me and is a film I keep thinking about and is great to discuss with others. Ethics. The lines between reality and imagination, questions about what constitutes 'trauma', and makes it valid. Plus, a look at the way people are picked up and then taken down in the most dramatic and brutal ways by media and the ever commentating public. I have enjoyed other films more, but it is very worth watching, and what film is partly all about.

Whiplash (2014)

What we suffer for passion

[9/10 · 18 November 2023]

This film has been talked about with awe and praise since it was released, and I've attempted to watch it several times, but had to back out due to the dark abuse that was clearly going to escalate (a bit of a sensitive subject for me)

However, after another person raving about it, and waiting for an evening i felt more resilient, i decided to give it one last time. It was what I expected.....the film centres around the passionate protagonist Andrew, who is dedicated to becoming a world renowned drummer. Nothing less. This comes with and is inextricably tied to his determination to gain the 'gate-keeper' and horrendously abusive Terrence Fletcher.

What ensues is a painful 2 hrs study in ego, bullying and manipulation, sacrifice, strength, and passion. I found it, as the creators intended, deeply upsetting, infuriating, and sad. BUT, the way this film is done- the direction, performances, the power of it, makes it compelling and I couldn't look away. It is a masterpiece, which does have so much complexity and depth. I am sure one could watch it many times and still be able to see things previously unseen. I don't know if I could watch it again, but the grit of the lead character does make it have a triumphant ending. It didn't leave me devastated, but neither was it one of those 'tied up with a bow' endings.

How to Have Sex (2023)

Deeply affecting

[8/10 · 8 November 2023]

I found this film extraordinarily real and raw. There was no gloss or glamourisation. The characters were very complex, recognisable, while steering clear of stereotypes. It was a film that did not require huge explanations, or to take deep detouring dives into character, because it is through witnessing the interactions, responses, and events that the audience is able to grasp everything. This is obviously in part due to the incredible performances.

The issues of consent, communication, identity and boundaries are all explored during the first solo holiday these girls are taking. The central female character in particular can go from looking and behaving both confident and on the cusp of adulthood, to naive and the very young age she is. That difficult stage between childhood innocence and a hunger for adventure, maturity and freedom. Most people can relate to the position of being out of one's depth, and floundering to 'survive' what intially/from the outside felt exciting, enticing and 'the thing' to do, when it reveals itself to infact be very dark, threatening and frightening.

I am not someone that cries very often, but this cut deep, and I sobbed for almost a third of it. Warning to others who may be needing it, that rape does occur and you may need to avoid it altogether, or have someone you feel very safe with to watch it with. I struggled to gather myself at the end and should have been less naive perhaps to the content. But I like to go into films with little clue about the story. In some cases this isn't always sensible. Take care.

Dumb Money (2023)

Another film that entertains and informs!

[8/10 · 27 September 2023]

Firstly, i am ignorant about stocks and shares, and all that jazz, so i was concerned i would be out of my depth and confused. BUT if i can watch it and understand it, then anyone can! You don't need to be finance market savvy to appreciate this film.

I would précis this with the embarrassing confession that at first I did feel a little overwhelmed and worried i wasn't getting all the nitty gritty, but you soon realise that a lot of that isn't important or comes together and makes sense as the film progresses. I came out a lot wiser to the whole scene than I did going in. I live a film that educates, or expands ones world view and understanding.

The characters are depicted so well....not caricatures like some recent 'based on true life ' films ive recently seen. The performances are excellent. I loved the cast and the script. The director is hugely skilled and knows how to create an entertaining, but importantly loaded film out of factual events.

There are definitely 'good' and 'bad' guys , and my empathy and emotional investment were won over. This meant that as events played out I cared and was increasingly gripped. The ending is satisfying and I think 99% of the audience will be metaphorically fist pumping at the end rather than gutted. So it's a good one to choose if you want to feel uplifted.

It's fun and entertaining, but important and not at all shallow.

Tár (2022)

Couldn't rate it

[6/10 · 27 September 2023]

This us a tough one to rate because I'm aware it is a very intelligent, well made, and intentionally challenging film. The performances are outstanding, and the issues tackled of huge importance. It has a lot to say and it warrants many watches so it can be explored and discussed. It provokes, certainly. I cannot criticise it for what it is. I admire it and am intimidated by it.

However, in terms of enjoyment, or not even enjoyment, but the emotional journey it took me on I would rate it low. I'm sure it is more revealing of what a philistine I am than any fault of the film itself, when I say it left me somewhat frustrated, confused and dissatisfied. For those wanting entertainment or a clear narrative arc this is one to avoid. I'm definitely not a 'mainstream ' film lover.... I like plenty of indie, world cinema and films that challenge and try new things. I want a film that makes me think and feel and learn sometimes. Occasionally I like a lightweight easy watch like Barbie or The Duke. But this was too obscure for me at the time I watched it. I'm glad a saw it as it was talked about a lot and my curiosity hs been satiated. BUT, i need to ask so many questions and am left pretty uncertain about it. The ending annoyed me. Maybe I need too much spoon feeding? Whatever. Some will love it. Others may recognise it is 'excellent ', but not for them. And, of course, there are those who will hate it and just switch it off after 15mins, or dodge it altogether.....

My enjoyment/satisfaction: 4* Quality/style/performances/intelligence: 8*(?)

Little White Lies (2010)

Captivating and compelling

[9/10 · 18 September 2023]

I really got sucked into this film. It is quite typically French and in many ways, brought no surprises in its style or presentation. But I just loved getting to know all the characters, and seeing how they interacted, and got through the events that take place throughout the film.

The performances were outstanding. My somewhat late 'to the table' adoration of, and respect for Marion Cotillard increasing. I will continue to seek out more of her work. She is do natural on screen.

Little white lies explores so much, and the number of characters is high, but despite this it manages to make all of them fleshed out and the issues and turmoil, passions and dilemmas of each are clear, beautifully portrayed and mature.

It has heavy subjects, but the setting is stunning and I was totally immersed in the French summer heat. I can understand this film would not appeal to those who prefer high action and octane movies. But I do think this is packed full and meatier than the more contemplative films it could be grouped with.

Downhill (I) (2020)

Left me a bit bewildered

[6/10 · 29 July 2023]

I saw Force Majeure when it came out and was impressed by the intriguing idea that is the basis of the film. It had ambiguity, induced discomfort, and was done with class.

I was interested to see the 'Americanised' version and hoped, due to it having been at least a decade since seeing the original, I may enjoy it, or at least be able to view it for its own merits.

The performances were good and, of course, the main incident occurs, which sets off the turmoil and conflict both within and between the characters throughout the rest of the film.

I don't feel it was done badly, although I certainly preferred the original. But, it did lack something of the punch and power of Force majeure, and I wouldn't really chat about it with any enthusiasm. This maybe because I knew the concept already and therefore the questions it poses, didn't surprise me. Maybe if I'd seen it without having seen the original I'd have been more struck by Downhill.

I.didnt mind the changes Armstrong made, but I felt the ending was a bit messy or took ambiguous? I am up for some ambiguity, and leaving the audience to interpret things as they read them. But this was done in a way that I didn't really get what either side, or the different perspectives were meant to be. I'm sure I am just being very stupid and my ignorance is to blame rather than the film. But even after reading articles and interviews with the director and writers, I still feel perplexed. I must be an idiot?!!?!?!?

Chevalier (2022)

Great insight, but exactly what I expected & no more

[7/10 · 2 July 2023]

I realise a lot of poetic license is used in the storytelling.... i.e. The love story, the relationship between Joseph and Marie Antoinette, as well as other aspects of the plot were constructed for the film. Therefore it isn't (is it ever really possible to?!?) a completely accurate biopic/retelling.

However, the overall historical key points (an illegitimate child, who is a person of colour with massive talent and drive) are reflective of the facts. It was really interesting to get this insight into the French attitudes and how this man was able to gain such status And recognition despite the huge racism and obstacles that he encountered. The acting was brilliant and characters really well drawn/imagined. There was great balance of information and plot.

I can't fault the film in anyway for being what it was- a rather light depiction of the period and events and relationships that may have occurred. This is because it will hopefully mean more people will learn that YES history has been massively white washed and written with bias and agenda. It would be brilliant to see a version of this story that is much grittier and real. But, I appreciate the tone and performances and this version greatly.

Allelujah (2022)

I wish I could be more enthusiastic

[6/10 · 27 June 2023]

More a TV play than cinema worthy film. It isn't bad. The messages are good and some great performances (although as much as i love Jennifer Saunders I can never take her seriously and when the reveal occurs I can almost see a glint in her eye and had flashes of the Misery sketch with Dawn French!).

I did find it very depressing. I'm usually quite one/have a reputation with friends for opting for more sombre stuff, but this felt even more difficult to me than many films that are probably darker. Maybe because it's so close to the bone and such a current reflection of the state of the NHS?

I have not marked it down for being depressing (I should add there are glimpses of wry humour and several audience members laughed at points), but because it seemed to lack any real oomph or pull me in properly. I felt always on the outside looking in and couldn't fully engage or get caught up in it. It isn't a pleasant watch, but neither is it good enough to become that gloomy for.

I also felt it was a bit confused in tone. Whilst I don't think things need to fit in neat genre boxes, and it's good sometimes when art plays with mixing up comedy, tragedy, realism, and surrealism. This film didn't seem to even understand what direction it was going and I tried to be different things ....almost like several people had written different parts and then they were all attached at the end. I wouldn't recommend it, but I do think the messages are important and I liked the cast very much. I wish I could be more enthusiastic about it.