Three crazy women for five weeks is a lot more than I bargained for. “The Homesman” (2014)

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directed by Tommy Lee Jones
© 2014 Roadside Attractions. All Rights Reserved.

I always say that western is my least favourite genre, but again I’ve found a gem. Perhaps it’s because some people refer to this film as a “feminist western” and, indeed, the main character is a woman, which is quite unusual for Wild West stories. Mary Bee Cuddy (Hilary Swank) is an unmarried young woman (although she’s over 30, so back then she’s an elderly, I guess). She feels incredibly lonely, but men don’t want to marry such independent and bossy woman. One day, Cuddy volunteers to escort three mentally ill women, from Nebraska to Iowa, which is typically a male task. Well, she again proves her stubbornness and bravery. At the beginning of the journey, Cuddy meets George Briggs (Tommy Lee Jones), whose life she saves. In exchange, she wants him to join her and the three ladies. The man is a shady type, but his presence may be helpful to succeed and reach the final destination. However, as you might be guessing, not everything goes according to plan. I remember I played this film randomly, without even thinking or checking ratings. After several minutes I realised that it’s a western, but I gave it a chance and I don’t regret that. The journey itself is nothing what I expected it to be, and the ending made me incredibly confused. What I learnt from this story is that back then women were either obedient to men, or considered insane and rejected. The idea of an independent woman was terrifying. Has something changed? Well, I feel like some men are still intimidated by female successes, but at least now women can be whoever they want to be. Unfortunately, still not all women and not everywhere, but the change is happening and I do hope that one day our gender won’t define us anyhow. Back to the film, it’s difficult and very emotional, so you should be in a mood for scratching your heart and brain. Yet, it’s worth it and Hilary plays a real female role model here. Make sure to check it out, even if you don’t like westerns. Or… especially if you don’t like westerns.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I was 10 months old. “Turning Point: Generation 9/11″ (2026)

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directed by Brian Knappenberger
© 2026 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

25 years ago the world stopped and I’m not sure it has ever moved forward. And if it has, then I’m afraid the direction was chosen wrongly. I believe I don’t need to give you any background on 9/11 because even if you’re from a younger generation, I hope you’ve heard of that tragedy. Today, I’d like to recommend you an interesting documentary, which isn’t another production about the event itself, but it focuses on the generations after 9/11. The children of the victims are now adults and we get to listen to their perspective. Some of them were few years old and don’t even remember the parent they lost back then. How have those circumstances influenced their coming of age? There’s no one scenario, but surely most of them feel horrible injustice and the need of revenge. I’m not judging their choices, because I’d probably follow a similar path, but the thing is we’re stuck in a never-ending war. Going to the army and fighting against other nations will always be wrong, because lots of innocent people die and there will always be a next generation to continue. Apart from the actual wars happening somewhere far, we, consciously or unconsciously, feed this conflict by spreading fake news, trusting stereotypes and sharing xenophobia. Some people say that the world was supposed to end in 2000, but instead it ended in 2001 – and I kind of agree with them. There has been a horrible tension since 9/11 and even in Europe, where we are very multicultural, hearing a different accent has been alarming. This documentary has average ratings, but I guess it’s because people are just tired of the topic and really want to move on. But it seems like we can’t and the trauma will always be with us. Besides, the film really focuses on the new generations, so to me it’s a fresh perspective to discover. Perhaps the documentary is slightly messy in its structure, but in the end I find it thought-provoking. I cannot even imagine the pain those families feel after losing someone they loved. On a random Tuesday. In a country that seemed to be safe and prepared. I cannot tell you not to worry, but I can remind you to take care of each other and never take any day for granted.

My rating: 6/10
S.

You are my flock! “The Sheep Detectives” (2026)

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directed by Kyle Balda
© 2026 Sony Pictures Releasing. All Rights Reserved.

Are you in need of good vibes and cute lambs? Then sit comfortably, get a blanket and enjoy this adorable production. I had absolutely zero expectations. In fact, I had minus-whatever-expectations. Why? Because I was sure it’s just another cringy animation for children, and since I’m not a fan of modern animated films, then you should get where my limited excitement came from. However, that flock really made me feel emotional and thanks to them I definitely dream of having a sheep pet. But before you give up on the film because it sounds childish, let me explain a bit. George (Hugh Jackman) is a shepherd, enjoying his widower life on a farm together with a bunch of adorable sheep buddies. The man loves reading crime stories and he often does it at loud, so the whole flock could join him. Deep inside he believes they understand every word he says. And in fact – that’s true. Unfortunately, one day George is found dead and it looks like a horrible murder. The sheep, educated by their late caretaker, seem to know a lot about such crimes and they decide to solve the mystery. But they are still fluffy animals that could be mistaken for clouds… who would take them seriously? I know, the idea for this film sounds ridiculous, and indeed it’s full of cringy jokes and sheep cosplaying as Sherlock Holmes. However, to me it’s also a reminder that we all belong to a flock, despite our differences. There’s always a place for us and one day we’ll find the perfect spot. Besides, it seems like an obvious message, but I’ll be advocating for animal rights forever and ever: all living creatures matter! Just because we, humans, consider ourselves as a superior species doesn’t mean it’s a general truth. Let’s respect each other, learn to coexist and stop using animals as our servants. They are our friends, with whom we should be sitting on the grass and reading another Agatha Christie’s novel. I’m thankful for this film and it’s surely one of the sweetest productions I’ve seen this year.

My rating: 8/10
S.

We fucking create life. “Nightbitch” (2024)

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directed by Marielle Heller
© 2024 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

The fact that this film has such low rating is the prove we still have a lot of work to do as a society. If you read short descriptions, you may think it’s just a lame fantasy/comedy to laugh at. To me it’s a production that should be shown to all men in this world to teach them about their role in a relationship. You might be wondering why I’m addressing men since the protagonist is clearly a woman. Well, you will see. We get to know the nameless main character – she’s Mother (Amy Adams). She’s married to Husband (Scoot McNairy), with whom she’s raising Son (Arleigh and Emmett Snowden). Before becoming a housewife, Mother used to be a painter and her life was surrounded by art, expression and colours. Now, it’s rather full sink, diapers and caffeine. Also, all other women seem to do better in their mother role than Mother, which bothers her a lot. At some point she notices changes in her body, which make her believe she’s turning into a dog. Yes, a dog. And I know how it sounds, but stay with me. This film is actually about losing yourself when becoming a mother. Motherhood is a beautiful thing and it’s a meaningful part of life, but in our society, when a woman gives birth, suddenly she’s no longer Mary, Annie or Julia – she’s Mother. Every conversation she has is about being a mother. Everything she’s expected to do is being a mother. Even her neighbours know her as a mother. What’s more – her life partner sees her as a mother of his child. Obviously, that’s who she becomes, but the point is that she should just add this “mommy” tag and keep playing the original role in life, you know? She should have time for herself, for her passion, her career, her husband, her friends – and remind them she has her own name. So, the fact that Mother is turning into a dog is quite understandable here. She’s forced to play the role of a female dog in this family – she feeds the baby, she cleans the baby, she watches the baby, and she’s also on a leash, always at home, waiting for her husband to come back from work. That is why I recommend this film mostly to men – because women live in this reality and know it too well. Perhaps you don’t mean to “turn her into a dog”, but if your wife gets trapped into a motherhood cage, make sure to find a key and let her out. She won’t run away. In fact, your relation will only get stronger, because she will remember how to be a loved woman. Dear woman, literally and figuratively, don’t be a bitch.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. “Wuthering Heights” (1992)

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directed by Peter Kosminsky
© 1992 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

If some elderly person tells you that the young are currently very liberated, irresponsible and wild, tell them to read or watch “Wuthering Heights”. I have to admit that I haven’t read the book, because reading a romance sounds like the worst idea for my book taste. However, this year many people were talking about the newest film adaptation, which apparently failed at numerous levels. To be honest, I don’t even want to watch the 2026 version because the one made in 1992 would be hard to beat. Especially because of the two main actors. If you don’t know this story, get ready for a real rollercoaster… My thoughts at the beginning of the film: “Yeah, another overly cute romantic story, blah blah blah”. My thoughts during the film: “Wait, what’s going on? Are they serious? Is it even legal?!” My thoughts after the film: “They used to have better candies in the 19th century.” I swear, I didn’t expect such a classic to be that controversial and ribald. Everything focuses on two lovebirds – Catherine and Heathcliff (Juliette Binoche & Ralph Fiennes). Her father gave a home to a gypsy boy, named him Heathcliff and treated like another son. The boy and the girl were spending a lot of time together and at some point started having feelings for each other. Yes, a non-biological siblings romance. That’s how they partied in the Romantic era! Anyway, despite the emotional connection between those two, Catherine chooses to marry another man, who’s from the higher social class, which leaves Heathcliff heart-broken. However, unlike in most such stories, he doesn’t focus on winning her heart again. Instead, the man craves revenge, and that’s just the beginning of the whole mess. If you want some sick plot twists dressed up in ruffled dresses, then this film will do the job. I actually regret not reading the book, because I would have loved being constantly shocked. So dear younger generations – you know nothing about being dirty and degenerate.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Someone’s gotta bridge the gap. “Anniversary” (2025)

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directed by Jan Komasa
© 2025 Lionsgate Films. All Rights Reserved.

This film reminds us that the evil is often covered by a pretty smile, big eyes and sweet voice. Today I’d like to recommend you another film directed by Jan Komasa, but this time it’s his American debut. And I must say it was a brave decision, because despite telling a universal story, he put a spotlight on the American politics. I’m wondering how many US citizens have criticized him for that, pointing out that he’s just some guy from Poland not knowing a thing about their country. Well, seems to me he knows quite a lot. Besides, this story is a warning for everyone, no matter which part of the planet you live on. Ellen and Paul (Diane Lane & Kyle Chandler) are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, therefore their four adult children have come home. Josh (Dylan O’Brien), their son, brings his fiancée, Liz (Phoebe Dynevor), who turns out to be Ellen’s ex-student. In fact, those two ladies had a difficult time with each other, because their politicals views differ a lot, so the professor didn’t approve of Liz’s work, which led to her dropping out. The young woman is a supporter of totalitarianism, which seems unbelievable to Ellen and her rather liberal opinions. At first Liz is an outsider and she represents a minority in the family, but step by step her position gets stronger and at some point Ellen may wake up to a totally different reality. What I liked about this film is the way they presented how such movements manipulate society, but the example here is a random family. We have representatives of various groups, with different backgrounds, age, experience – and we have the spy who influences them all. Slowly, yet successfully. I know we may be sure that our views are solid and there’s no way someone’s going to change them. But what if you’re forced to change the opinion in order to protect your beloved ones or even survive? Terrifying future is waiting behind the corner… but perhaps thanks to productions like this, we’ll manage to delay it. Some people criticise the film for not taking any side in this political battle, but I actually find it a huge plus. You’re given a story, but it’s your task to reflect on it and make up your mind. Perhaps some critics don’t like to think too much… Did I say it at loud? Or rather, did I just publish that? Oh well.

My rating: 8/10
S.

Why do you want to live? “The Red Shoes” (1948)

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directed by Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger
© 1948 General Film Distributors. All Rights Reserved.

Would you sacrifice everything for your biggest passion? If you had to choose between the love of your life and creating art that will be adored by the whole world, what would you choose? And the last question – would you cut your own feet if they wouldn’t stop dancing? If you think these questions are difficult or ridiculous, let me introduce you to this production that may surprise you even more. A young and talented woman named Vicky (Moira Shearer) wishes to be noticed by Boris Lermontov (Anton Walbrook), the owner of the prestigious Ballet Lermontov. At first, the man isn’t much interested, but after seeing Vicky on stage, he decides to hire her. While spreading the wings in a professional theatre, the woman starts having feelings for Julian (Marius Goring), their répétiteur (ballet coach). Boris notices the lovebirds and finds their relation quite disturbing. According to him, Vicky should be focused only on her career, ballet and, most importantly, art. The woman has to make an important decision – love or passion? The film is based on the fairytale by H. Ch. Andersen, yet the actual tale is presented only during a 17-minute sequence, in which dancers perform a ballet telling the story. The film screenplay, however, differs quite a lot, yet the common element are the red shoes. In the fairytale, the girl has to have her feet cut, because the shoes won’t stop dancing. So… yeah, what a cute bedtime story, right? Here, the main focus is on the dilemma of the protagonist, but also on promoting ballet as a significant kind of art. Indeed, the dancing scenes are maginificent, and the famous 17-minute sequence is also beautifully edited. Sometimes you may even forget that the film was made in 1948 and feel like you were in an actual theatre. Perhaps the love vs. art issue didn’t engage me that much, but visually it’s a spectacular production. So, next time you think of wearing red shoes, better think twice. You may lose the love of your life… or your feet.

My rating: 7/10
S.

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done? “The Drama” (2026)

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directed by Kristoffer Borgli
© 2026 A24. All Rights Reserved.

Perhaps rushing with marriage isn’t such a bad idea. You don’t have much time to really get to know the other person and then, when it’s done, you prefer to keep the ring on instead of paying for divorce. Being romantic is my superpower, I know. Today’s film points out two important issues that we don’t talk much about, so I’m positively surprised after watching it. Emma and Charlie (Zendaya & Robert Pattinson) are cute love birds that after a two-year relationship are about get married in few days. They seem to be a great match, but one evening changes everything. The couple share a drink with friends and at some point each person reveals something horrible they’ve done in life. When Emma tells her secret, everyone finds it incredibly disturbing. Charlie begins his inner battle, because he seems not to trust his fiancée anymore. Even though he’s spent two amazing years and fallen in love with his other half, suddenly it seems as if he was about to marry a stranger. A stranger with a dark past. This film isn’t just a romantic drama where lovers have an argument. To me this story shows two significant things. First, it reminds us that we’re no angels and if you believe your partner is purely good – then you’re either naive or have been dating for a week. We have all done something shameful and it’s actually worth sharing with our beloved one. This way you bond on a different level, because you open up showing your true and raw self. I hope being truthful and genuine will become a new couple trend. Gen-Z or Alpha babies – that’s your job. Second, the film also made me think how unprepared our society is for struggling people. What I mean is that if you share for example your mental problems with your friends, colleagues or even a neighbour, you might get judged and/or pushed away. And if you keep that to yourself, everything’s fine, you’re still in the “social club”, you go to parties, share drinks with besties and just one day the ambulance becomes your personal taxi to a psychiatric ward. But then, if you tell them about your struggles, they may leave you alone and it may intensify your symptoms. So, what’s the right thing to do? I can’t tell you, but I make sure to stay honest and talk about my struggles in order to accustom people to reality that they often run away from. Highly recommended.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I’m going to be killed tonight. “The Calendar Killer” (“Sebastian Fitzeks Der Heimweg”, 2024)

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directed by Adolfo J. Kolmerer
© 2024 Amazon Prime Video. All Rights Reserved.

If you’re a murderer, at least keep your schedule and stay in touch with your potential victims. Let’s respect each other’s time, shall we? The Calendar Killer is a perfect example – he tells you the exact time you will say goodbye to this world and makes sure not to be late. One day, Klara (Luise Heyer) is contacted by the murderer and has to decide – either she kills her husband, or she gets killed. The woman is terrified and she calls a helpline. The person who answers her call is Jules (Sabin Tambrea), volunteeringly working at a night helpline for women. Klara tells him she’s going to be killed, which sounds strange, but Jules takes her words very seriously. He begins a difficult battle to save the woman, but there’s not much you can do on the phone and without any specific information. A lot of reviews say this thriller is boring, but I actually find it quite exciting. If you like to know everything from the beginning, then I guess you may feel disappointed. We’re equally confused as most characters there, getting random puzzles and not being able to put them together. Personally, I enjoy such stories, because I can play a detective and solve the case myself before I see it on the screen. However, it’s been proven that movie fans feel more satisfied when they know everything in a thriller/horror. For example, imagine a classic slasher – there’s a crazy guy casing some teenagers. The whole group is lost and they have no idea what may happen next, but you, as a viewer, know that the killer is actually one of them or something like that. This way, the filmmakers make us feel more powerful than the characters, which apparently gives pleasure. We like power, don’t we, huh? Well, in this film, we need to exercise our brain and perhaps get surprised at the end. It was based on the book of the same title and some say the book was much better, but since I haven’t read it, I can just say – the film isn’t bad either.

My rating: 7/10
S.

You ever feel like your luck’s running out? “Gridlock’d” (1997)

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directed by Vondie Curtis-Hall
© 1997 Gramercy Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

The world is struggling with drug addiction, but you know what’s an even bigger problem? Bureaucracy. I’m sure we all love dealing with lots of papers that could have been one e-mail, but still we need to spend several afternoons on printing, filling in, standing in queues and answering questions we don’t understand. Not sure how about you, but I’m a big fan… Anyway, I didn’t mention the addiction issue without any purpose. In today’s film, the world of sniffing mixes with office vibes. We get to know three friends, Spoon (Tupac Shakur), Stretch (Tim Roth) and Cookie (Thandie Newton), who also create a band. Except making art, they share another “hobby”. One day, Cookie overdoses and ends up in hospital, in a serious condition. Terrified by this situation, her two friends start thinking of getting clean and not using drugs ever again. Well, that seems like a big deal, considering the kind of life they’re living. However, they really want to try and begin their rehabilitation. Unfortunately, even if you’re willing to get help, the system doesn’t treat you seriously. You need to get lots of papers, go to several meetings and… wait. You know what happens with an addict who waits? Yeah, not the best idea. This film is considered a comedy, yet I see it more like a life drama. It tries to make us smile, but deep inside it made me feel uncomfortable. People do weird things and it’s their responsibility, but I believe everyone should have a chance to ask for help and actually receive it. No surprise there are so many addicts if the system is not adapted to them. Such people need an immediate support. Because in an hour or two they may be lying somewhere, half-conscious, with a needle in their body. I enjoyed this film because Shakur and Roth make a great acting duet, but the main topic is disturbing. I hope that things will change and perhaps thanks to this story some people won’t even try going the “white path”. Stay safe!

My rating: 7/10
S.