Wednesday, July 31, 2024

The Unknown Terror


Here's a classic '50s sci-fi horror that takes us on a thrilling jungle adventure filled with mystery. A group of explorers venture to a mysterious Caribbean jungle village to find a previous explorer mysteriously missing. Their quest leads them to the mysterious "Cave of the Dead," where they encounter a horrifying secret.

"The Unknown Terror" has plenty of low budget charm, campy atmosphere, B-movie thrills, adventure, suspense, bad acting and bizarre creatures. There's even a made scientist with shades of Colonel Kurtz. The script is a lot of nonsense, but these films always make for a comforting afternoon's entertainment. Evil fungus, what more do you want?

Silence


Long, sometimes boring... It plays out over decades offering no answers, no enlightenment, and no hope of resolution to its central conflicts, only more questions. It's not a matter of this being a "good" film in the usual sense, although there is excellent cinematography and sound design, and of course outstanding performances. It's rather something to be taken in, experienced and pondered. The questions here are profound, transcending the faith the film is ostensibly concerned with. Questions about dedication to good, versus "doing the right thing" have no answers, only further dilemma and paradox. Morality and ethics are not always aligned. Looking to the universe for guidance on such matters we get deafening silence. Down here, you're on your own.

"Silence" is a contemplative drama that delves deep into the complexities of faith and human endurance. Set in 17th century Japan, the film follows two Portuguese Jesuit priests, played by Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver, as they embark on a perilous journey to find their mentor (Liam Neeson) whose gone missing while spreading Christianity in a country where it's strictly forbidden, under penalty of death.

"Silence" is a visually stunning and emotionally charged film that offers a haunting exploration of existential contradiction. Just be sure you have some time set aside.

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

The Man from U.N.C.L.E.


This is a spy-action-comedy set in the ultra glamorous cold war of the early 1960s. It's a reimagining of the classic television series of the same name, but has very little connection to that show. 

The film follows the unlikely partnership of Napoleon Solo (Henry Cavill), a charming and sophisticated CIA agent, and Illya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer), a stern and disciplined KGB operative. Forced to put aside their professional rivalry and join forces to stop a mysterious criminal organization from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

This is definitely a Guy Richie film. It moves fast from action to more action followed by action, interspersed with one-liners. There's an interesting editing trick of in the moment flash backs where we see missing moments quick-cut into the current thread, from the scene we literally just watched. The technique easily adds drama, and a touch of comedy. Fortunately the film only does this 2 or 3 times. It's a gimmick that could get old real fast.

And then there's the designer clothes, groovy cool soundtrack, colorful cinematography, glamourous locations, retro-esque split screen effects and more in the mix. There's no mistaking the ride we're in for right from the opening.

Hyper stylish visuals, rapid fire action, and unlikely buddy spies... I'm not sure it's as high on the re-watchability scale as say "Snatch", but "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." is utterly enjoyable and just plain fun.

Monday, July 29, 2024

The Maltese Falcon


This is the quintessential film noir that set the standard for the genre. It follows the gritty, cynical private detective Sam Spade (Humphrey Bogart) as he becomes entangled in a dangerous web of lies and deceit surrounding the mysterious Maltese Falcon, a priceless, jewel-encrusted statuette.

A femme fatale client, the alluring but deceptive Brigid O'Shaughnessy (Mary Astor), hires Sam Spade and his partner to find her missing sister. But when his partner is murdered, Sam finds himself caught in a deadly game involving a group of eccentric and ruthless criminals, all desperate to possess the falcon. 

The film is renowned for its dark, shadowy cinematography, and sharp, witty, filled with cynical undertones. There's of course quite a memorable cast of characters, including the menacing Kasper Gutman (Sydney Greenstreet), the nervous and twitchy Wilmer (Peter Lorre), and the enigmatic Sam Spade. 

Fun fact, Humphrey Bogart actually supplied his own, outstanding, wardrobe for the role of Sam Spade.

Another fun fact, what ultimately became of the Maltese falcon statue props, among the most iconic props is American film history, is a mystery.

District 9


Here we have some solid science fiction action movies with a helping of social commentary. That's not unusual, but this particular story is different enough to keep things interesting.

Twenty years prior to the film's events, a massive alien spacecraft arrives on Earth, hovering over Johannesburg, South Africa. Instead of being either conquerors or new friends, the aliens appear to be refugees, or perhaps prisoners, it's not clear. But there are a rough group in very poor health. The human government initially attempts to help but eventually walls the aliens to a squalid, segregated slum called District 9.

Wikus, a minor bureaucrat, is tasked with leading a project to forcibly remove the aliens from District 9 to a new location, further from the city. During the operation, he comes into contact with a mysterious alien substance that begins to transform him into one of the creatures he despises. Forced to hide from both humans and aliens, Wikus becomes a hunted outcast, seeking a cure while also discovering more about the alien race.

The film of course uses the aliens' situation as a metaphor for apartheid and other forms of social injustice, discrimination, and the dehumanizing effects of power. Humans are jerks. This is all pretty obvious, but the action, effects and story are quite engaging making for a fun ride.

"District 9" is put together in a gritty documentary style with cut aways to interviews and hand held camera. This drags a bit at the beginning, as it explains the setup, but it gets going soon enough. Overall, it's a pretty good film with unique execution and a realistic feel.

Sunday, July 28, 2024

Black Dragons


"Black Dragons" is a thriller that capitalizes on the anti-Japanese sentiment prevalent at the beginning of World War II. It's a classic example of the era's propaganda-laden espionage films, with an... intriguing... plot.

The story revolves around a series of murders targeting a group of prominent American industrialists who are secretly working to sabotage the war effort. The culprit is a mysterious figure, Monsieur Colomb, played brilliantly by the iconic Bela Lugosi. 

A federal agent investigating the murders uncovers a web of deceit and treachery, plastic surgery, scum and viliany. It's a tale filled with suspense, intrigue, mystery and patriotic fervor, typical of its time. The details are frankly ludicrous.

Lugosi is a joy to watch. Otherwise, we have poor acting, mostly, an uninteresting production, and did I mention the ludicrous script? The film is heavily influenced by wartime paranoia and the anti-Japanese sentiment of the time. It's not good, but "Black Dragons" is a fascinating work, in its historical context. It's a shame the doesn't seem to be any good restorations.

Jet Pilot


A beautiful Russian jet pilot, Anna Marladovna (Janet Leigh), defects to the United States and is assigned to the care of Colonel Jim Shannon (John Wayne). As their relationship deepens (or does it?), Shannon learns that Anna is a spy (or is she?), complicating their romance and creating a tense spy vs spy between the United States and the Soviet Union. 

The film well characterizes the paranoia and mistrust of the Cold War era, all as a background to some pretty ridiculous '50s romantic comedy stylings. It's a mixed bag. Although the story is a little contrived, suspense and twists keep it interesting, all in glorious technicolor. Many of the mid century sets and costumes are incredible.

Howard Hughes's fingerprints are all over this film. "Jet Pilot" features impressive fighter jet flight sequences, showcasing the advanced aviation technology of the era. It's hard to believe they got some of the footage. In the end the film is to be appreciated for that historical significance, and the iconic performances of its leads. It is definitely one of John Wayne's best roles.

Risky Business


I don't recall if I have seen the film since it's initial theatrical run. It's definitely darker than I remembered, and I don't mean the cinematography.

"Risky Business" is on the surface a very '80s coming-of-age comedy, one that catapulted Tom Cruise to stardom. Joel Goodsen is a high school senior and future captain of enterprise from a wealthy Chicago suburb, who's left unsupervised when his parents go on vacation. What could go wrong?

Things take a turn when he accidentally hires a prostitute, Lana (Rebecca De Mornay). After a night of debauchery, Joel wakes up to find he can not afford the bill. Stuff ends up missing and his father's prized Porsche ends up in a lake as one thing leads to another. Desperate for the money to fix all this, he does what any affluent suburban white, teenage male would do. He turns his house into a brothel and takes in his friends inheritances and trust funds. Comedy ensues, and so an.

The film is visually stunning, and the score of brilliant. Yet there's an overall superficial feel to it all, even in sex scenes, that fits the themes of the film well. It's odd that the director has made so few movies. He definitely seems to know what he wants and how to get it done.

"Risky Business" has a quotable sharp wit. It's a satire of American '80s materialism, and Tom Cruise's fits right in. "I was just thinking, where we might be 10 years from now, you know," he asks. Well, jumping off tall stuff without a parachute a lot probably...

Friday, July 26, 2024

Winter Passing


"Winter Passing" is bleak. Reese Holden is a troubled young woman living in New York City. Daughter of famous novelists, mother dead by suicide, she returns to her rural Michigan hometown after receiving a lucrative offer to sell her parents' love letters.

Upon arriving, Reese discovers a starkly changed home. Her once-renowned novelist father has become a reclusive alcoholic living in the garage. The home is occupied by two... unconventional... strangers. As Reese navigates the icy landscape of her past searching for the letters, she confronts her own emotional turmoil and the fractured bonds within her family.

Performances, particularly from Zooey Deschanel as Reese and Ed Harris as her father, are excellent. Will Farrell is completely convincing in his unlikely role. For each of these characters life has been a struggle.

The film perhaps goes a bit too far at times painting itself dark. It is raw, understated and strange. This is an all but hopeless exploration of loss and regret that can be quite disturbing at times. "Winter Passing" is predominantly melancholic in tone from beginning to end. Its quiet desperation, and bleak and somber emotional winter reflects each characters' inner turmoil and the harshness of the setting.

This is a hard film to categorize. And it's good, even if not everything works. It's a good thing that films like this can be made now and then.

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Bottle Rocket

"Bottle Rocket" follows the misadventures of the Anthony (Luke Wilson), the charismatic but unstable Dignan (Owen Wilson), and their easily influenced friend, Bob (Robert Musgrave). After Anthony is released (Escapes? Stages an escape? Or just leaves?) from a mental hospital, Dignan reveals an absurdly detailed 75 year plan for the trio form a criminal gang.

Their first venture, the over-planned robbery of a local bookstore, leads to chaotic road trip. Along the way, they encounter a variety of colorful characters. Eventually , they team up wirh a mysterious criminal played by the great James Caan.

"Bottle Rocket" is offbeat to say the least. It marks the feature film debut of director Wes Anderson and the acting debut of the Wilson brothers, Owen and Luke. The film showcases Anderson's signature distinctive visual style, dry humor, and quirky characters. Every line of dialogue in "Bottle Rocket" is a gem.



Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Beans


"Beans" is a typical coming-of-age story informed by the backdrop of the 1990 Oka Crisis in Quebec, an actual 78-day armed standoff between a native Mohawk community and government forces over land use. The film offers perspective on the conflict, and on the life of a young Mohawk girl, Beans, as she navigates the complexities of adolescence. Thrust into sudden political unrest and violence, she is forced to mature rapidly.

The film explores themes of identity, community, cultural authenticity, and resilience as Beans grapples with the challenges of growing up amidst that turbulent time. The film is also a raw and honest portrayal of the Oka Crisis, emphasizing the impact on individuals, particularly the younger generation. 

On it's own the tale of Bean's youth is not new. But the unique issues of indigenous peoples, the politics and the 1990 conflict itself make for very compelling film. Unfortunately this strength also leads to a slightly unsatisfying ending. Even as Bean herself moves forward in her life, we know enormous struggles remain for indigenous people everywhere, woman and girls particularly. It's not like the film could resolve that of course. But it somewhat deflates what in a simpler context would be an empowering conclusion to the story.

Interestingly, the white people (for lack of a better term) involved in the land dispute that is the backbone of the film were French Canadians. These are themselves a regional Canadian minority with a strong sense of cultural identity. It was a mess of a situation. I can see to appeal of the film's concept; a young girl trying different identities in the midst of social crisis triggered by identity.

Although "Beans" is quite well made, the writing and performances of some supporting characters seems a bit weak. But the smooth integration of period footage adds authenticity and interest. "Beans" definitely offers perspective.

Monday, July 22, 2024

The Man They Could Not Hang


"The Man They Could Not Hang" is a classic blend of science fiction, horror and the mysterious invitations to a mansion trope starring Boris Karloff. Dr. Henryk Savaard is a brilliant but controversial scientist experimenting with a process to preserve life beyond death. His research takes a tragic turn when an experiment goes wrong, resulting in the death of a volunteer. Misunderstood and accused of murder, Savaard is sentenced to hang. 

Through the help of his loyal assistant (who abruptly disappears from the film), Savaard's invention cheats death and brings him back, with a broken neck. Fueled by a rage and a thirst for revenge, he seeks retribution against those who condemned him.

"The Man They Could Not Hang" was a typical product of its era, appealing to audiences with a blend of horror, science fiction, and melodrama. It was commercially successful, helping to solidify Boris Karloff's status as a timeless horror icon. This film was part of a series of similar films produced by Columbia Pictures, often referred to as the "Mad Doctor Cycle". Thus it contributed significantly to the popular image of the mad scientist, a trope that continues to be explored in subsequent horror. 

For a B-movie, the film displays a notable atmospheric tension through a pretty good script and some good camera work. A remarkable actor, Karloff's performance as the wronged scientist is compelling. Watching his films I always wonder what sort of roles he'd be doing if he were working today.

The film's exploration of medical ethics is also quite interesting. Scientific ethics was a theme that resonated with audiences at the time, tapping into a growing fascination with science and technology, while also playing on fears of the unknown. The film asks questions that remain relevant today.

Cinematically, "The Man They Could Not Hang" is obviously not a masterpiece. The ending is particularly contrived. But it crams a lot of interest into its short runtime.

In the Soup


"In the Soup" is offbeat indie film making at its best. The film that offers a unique and humorous look at the struggles of an aspiring filmmaker. We follow Aldolpho (Steve Buscemi), a struggling and broke would-be writer-director with a massive, unfilmable, and horribly artistic screenplay (his Tarkovsky poster is an early clue). His life is a chaotic mix of poverty, unrequited love, unemployment and the pursuit of ridiculously artistic dreams. Surrounding him is a colorful cast of characters, including a small-time gangster, mysterious neighbors, singing landlords and a host of eccentric supporting players.

One of the film's standout features is its black and white cinematography, which gives it a timeless and gritty feel. There are shades of "Down by Law" and "Stranger than Paradise", and in fact Jim Jarmusch appears the film in a small role along with the always enjoyable Carol Kane.

"In the Soup" is an understated film that rewards attention. It's a quirky, character-driven piece for those that appreciate independent cinema and offbeat humor. Steve Buscemi's performance is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his comedic and dramatic range. The man is a national treasure.

This absurd film about absurd film making is a treat for people that love film. Is the film ever completed? Who knows...

Sunday, July 21, 2024

Submarine Command


"Submarine Command" is a war film starring William Holden. It tells the story of Ken White, first officer on the submarine USS Tiger Shark. White grapples with the psychological trauma of a wartime decision that resulted in the death of the captain.

Freshly deployed near the end of WWII, White, during a critical moment, gives the order to dive resulting in the death of the captain and another crew member. Despite being promoted, White is haunted by the event, affecting his personal life. He attempts to move on with a peacetime desk job, but is eventually called back to duty on the Tiger Shark during the Korean War.

The film delves into the emotional toll of war and explores post-traumatic stress disorder, a concept not widely acknowledged at the time. It portrays the struggles of a war hero burdened by guilt and the difficulty of moving forward. "Submarine Command" holds a place in film history for its early portrayal of PTSD. 

Holden portrays Ken White with intensity, conveying the character's internal conflict and emotional turmoil. The role requires a range of emotions, from the initial bravado to despair, anger and eventual determination. Holden's performance can boarder on unnerving at times. He quite effectively captures the character's struggle to reconcile his past with the demands of the day to day.

Unfortunately, there's not a lot going on otherwise in this one. It drags a bit and overly relies on voice over narration to advance the story. The action sequences are good, but don't tie in adequately to the overall plot. This keeps it securely in the pretty good range, but not great.

Interestingly, the scenes onboard the Tiger Shark were filmed on a period submarine. There's tremendous authenticity in the setting and procedures. It's hard to image how the film makers achieved their work in such extremely tight spaces with lighting and cameras. Lots of tight lens...

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind


"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" delves into the complexities of love, loss, and a surprisingly detailed technical theory of human memory. The film offers a unique and emotionally resonant exploration of human connections.

Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet), both undergo a procedure to abruptly erase each other from their memories after a painful breakup. However, things don't go smoothly. Joel realizes his mistake during his erasure, remembering all the good memories that he and Clementine had together. He fights the procedure, struggling to retain memories of her. Much of the film takes place within Joel's memories, not as a traditional flashback, but literally within the interconnections and distortions of subjective memory itself.

"Eternal Sunshine" is a visual and narrative masterpiece. The film lives in a dreamlike and disorienting atmosphere that mirrors the fractured nature of our inner vision of the past. The film's non-linear structure and inventive visual effects enhance the emotional impact of the story.

Beyond the technical, the film builds insights into the human experience. It explores the bittersweet nature of love, the fear of heartbreak, loneliness, and the enduring power of memory. "Eternal Sunshine" ultimately suggests that the most painful experiences shape us and contribute to our lives.

Carrey and Winslet deliver exceptional performances, showcasing their range and vulnerability. Their chemistry is palpable, making their characters' love story both heartbreaking and inspiring. David Cross is one of those people that is always funny, naturally, even in a small role.

In the end this is not a perfect love story, or about a perfect love. It's quite deliberately imperfect. Joel and Clementine are not made for each other, in fact they are nothing alike. We don't even know for sure what becomes of them in the end. It's the memories that endure.

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Because of You


"Because of You" is a noir adjacent romance starring Loretta Young and Jeff Chandler. The story centers around Christine (Loretta Young), who unknowingly becomes involved with a gangster, Mike, and ends up taking the fall for a part in his crimes. After serving time in prison, she begins to rebuild her life. 

Working as a nurse's aide she falls in love and married a troubled war veteran, Steve (Jeff Chandler). But at what cost? Christine is haunted by her past. She struggles to avoid revealing her record to the emotionally fragile Steve for fear of shocking him, and perhaps losing her new life. Complications arise when Mike suddenly reappears.

Back then they didn't use the phrase PTSD, Steve suffers from "melancholy." Made in 1952 (the story of the film begins during the war), a story centered so directly around a the trauma of combat was not common. 

"Because of You" is a mixed bag, and more than a little a melodrama. The performances of Chandler and Young are exceptional, no surprise there. And the core of the plot is intriguing. Unfortunately it doesn't have much else going for it. There is however a magic show.

Drunk Bus


"Drunk Bus" is about a not so successful former art school student, Michael, whose dream of Polaroid photography has fallen by the way. He's got a job as a night bus driver on the "drunk bus", campus route driving typically intoxicated students home late-nights. Michael's life consists of little more than the repetitive loop of bus stops and the regulars that ride, night after night.

After a violent incident, Michael's boss hires Pineapple, a large Samoan as a security guard. At first intimidating, Pineapple actually has a kind and insightful nature. Despite initial fear of the imposing security guard, Michael develops an unlikely friendship with Pineapple. And their bus adventures ensue...

This is a film about disappointments, in life and relationships, unexpected friendships and getting out of a rut. There's interesting characters, laughs and of course the bus.

Friday, July 19, 2024

Outside the Law


"Outside the Law" is a film noir set in the world of undercover operations and international counterfeiting.

Johnny Salvo (Ray Danton), an ex-convict with a chip on his shoulder and a perfect haircut, is offered a chance at redemption and a clear record. His estranged father, a stern Treasury agent, has a plan. Johnny is to go undercover to infiltrate a counterfeiting ring, and investigate the murder or a fellow soldier, in return, a full pardon.

"Overall, Outside the Law" is a classic film noir the delivers in every way. There's shadowy cinematography, snappy dialogue, sharp suits, a mysterious woman and plenty of shady criminals, all with a touch of gritty moral ambiguity.

"Yours are lonely eyes Johnny, you have lonely eyes. Deep, no bottoms..."

Thursday, July 18, 2024

The Cat and the Moon


"The Cat and the Moon" is a coming-of-age following Nick, a teenager who goes to live with his late father's friend Cal, a jazz musician, in New York City while, as we learn, his mom is in rehab. Nick finds himself drawn into the world of some new classmates, and that of Cal.

The film explores Nick's emotional turmoil as he deals with his father's death and his mother's issues. We know nothing about this early on. But as the film unfolds we slowly learn more about the situation and the back stories of Cal and Nick's parents.

"The Cat and the Moon" feels a bit long at times, but in hindsight everything in there contributes to the development of the characters. Just the same, editing could have been tighter, and not every wistful gaze into the distance is necessary, no matter how pretty the shot is.

Toward the final quarter on the tale, when we have pieced together most of the background, the drama ramps up significantly. As the film progresses, comical moments, lighter in the beginning, also become progressively darker and heavier. 

The camera work in interesting throughout. Frequent close-ups and shallow depths of focus contribute to the film's authentic and personal feel. Bokeh is present naturally. There's also some good use of music. Performances are engaging across the entire cast.

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

The Maze Runner


Thomas wakes up with no memory in a metal elevator that ascends to a grassy clearing. There he finds a community of boys his age who call themselves Gladers. They live in a place called, unsurprisingly, The Glade, a self-contained ecosystem surrounded by a giant wall and an ever-changing maze full of mysterious and deadly monsters. We soon learn about the maze runners, a small group who ventures into the maze each day to map it and hopefully find an escape. As Thomas adjusts to his new life, he becomes determined to unravel the secrets of the maze and find a way out himself.

"The Maze Runner" is a sci-fi thriller with a very simple premise. It's not a complicated film. But its strong central mystery and visual style are compelling. The maze running scenes are exciting and well-choreographed. The nature of the situation, and the dangers lurking around every corner, keep the film interesting throughout.

It's more than a bit of "Lord of the Flies", and a bit of "The Hunger Games," but it's fun. It's a one of those one-gag-films, but it's a good gag. The cliffhanger ending leaves unanswered questions. I guess there's a sequel I haven't looked into.

Find Me Guilty


Jackie DiNorscio (Vin Diesel), a low-ranking member of the Lucchese crime family, finds himself on trial alongside 19 others in the longest mafia trial in US history, in the late 1980s. True story... Upset with his lawyer, Jackie decides to represent himself in court, despite having no legal background and not exactly being the sharpest tool in the shed.

"Find Me Guilty" showcases a different side of Vin Diesel. He sheds his usual action hero persona to play a fast-talking, working-class mobster. His performance is surprisingly effective. And he has hair - now that's acting.

While the core is a character driven courtroom drama, the film blends in elements of comedy as Jackie's antics and lack of legal knowledge create humorous situations and frustrations for the judge. This is pretty entertaining especially in light of the script leaning heavily on real-life transcripts from the trial.

"Find Me Guilty" is a curious case, and a fun watch. There's no "good guys" in this tale. But a self-representing mobster in a two year long trial offers the height of absurdity. The film is a little slow in spots, but how do you tell the tale of a massive trial the took almost two years just to present the evidence?

Monday, July 15, 2024

The Short History of the Long Road


A teenage girl, Nola, lives a nomadic life on the open road, in a van, with with her father. They travel across the South West in the van, enjoying their independence and somehow making ends meet. Their van life is disrupted by a sudden tragedy, forcing Nola and the van to forge a new path. We follow her journey, the people she encounters and what she learns about her past, her parents and the van, which gets a new stripe.

The film centers on resilience, the nomadic lifestyle, family and the freedom of the open road (and the van).

Nola faces challenges and experiences personal growth, but it's not really a true coming of age story. It's more about personal connections, old and new, a sense of belonging, and the discovery of how things came to be.

"The Short History of the Long Road" is a quiet and beautiful van movie, soaked in that blue-green tint that is popular today, contrasted with warmer hues of desert landscape. There's also plenty of bokeh and lens flare, naturally.

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Bath Day

 

Here's Harlan staying cool out in the aviary.
It's been much to hot for her to be outside for the past few days. We finally have some relief today, at least for the morning.


Friday, July 05, 2024

Harlan

 

Harlan doesn't appreciate fans running all the time.