I’m walkin’ here! I’m walkin’ here! “Midnight Cowboy” (1969)

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directed by Josh Schlesinger
© 1969 United Artists. All Rights Reserved.

Can a film about a friendship between a male prostitute and a scammer win an Oscar? Sure, even more than one. Ready for this ride? Let’s go. We get to meet Joe Buck (Jon Voight), a young man from Texas, who doesn’t see any work perspectives where he lives (also, he’s not the most ambitious guy either), so he decides to leave for New York City. Dressed up as a cowboy (you know, Texas, bang, bang!) he’s trying to accompany women when they are alone in the bedroom. Yes, he becomes a prostitute. Unfortunately, seems like New Yorkers aren’t into cowboys, at least not all of them. Joe realises that there’s a lot of potential in flirting with middle-aged ladies, because they enjoy the company of a cowboy junior. At the same time, he makes friends with Rico (Dustin Hoffman), another lost soul that is trying to survive in this world. The man is a con man, but those two finally have an agreement to support each other. It’s not just another story about an adorable friendship. It’s horribly real, raw and heart-breaking, in fact. Both of them had difficult starts in life and now they need to deal with all the trauma as adults. At first I wasn’t anyhow moved by the role of Joe Buck and I couldn’t understand the nomination for it, but the more I analysed this character, the more I support the choice. I don’t want to spoil it for those who haven’t seen the film, but at some point you get a bigger picture of our cowboy from Texas and his, I’d say, neuter way of being speaks louder than any words. However, the absolute gem of this production is Dustin Hoffman, who deserved to win that Oscar. In my opinion, this film wouldn’t have been such a success without his role. I truly forgot he’s an actor and saw Rico, with all his problems, experiences and memories. Fantastic work. Also, when you watch the film, pay attention to the scene with a taxi. You will know which one it is. And all I can say is that it wasn’t in the script, so you may see genuine reactions there, which the director decided to leave in the final film. And when you finish watching, read more about that situation, because it’s quite interesting. You may need to rewatch the scene and put the volume up. Up, up, up.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Why aren’t you a mother yet? “A Child of My Own” (“Un hijo propio”, 2026)

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directed by Maite Alberdi
© 2026 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

It’s ridiculous that the people who support having children are often those who contribute to not having them the most. Today I’d like to recommend you a documentary that perhaps could have been done better technically, but it refers to a huge problem that we should talk more about. The film is actually partically a documentary, partically a role-play to visualise the real story. I’m not really a fan of such idea, because at some point I felt like watching some soap opera, but I still appreciate Alejandra, the main character, for sharing her story. Since the moment she got married, the whole family were asking about her getting pregnant. Traditionally it’s considered a natural order of things, and in fact, Alejandra wishes to become a mother very much, so she’s not anyhow against this idea. Unfortunately, the couple have serious problems getting pregnant, which only intensifies the pressure. One day, Alejandra proudly announces she’s expecting a baby and everyone is relieved. However, despite creating a perfect picture of a happy mother-to-be, the woman is not pregnant. Yet, she will become a mother in few months. How’s that possible? It’s for you to see. As I said, the documentary itself feels a bit fictional, but the story is incredibly important to be told. Women are always expected to give birth, but nobody thinks about the difficulty of the process. It takes time to get pregnant and many couples struggle for years. In-vitro is expensive and not widely accessible, while adoptions require you to be a superhuman. Besides there’s another stupid pressure about having biological children, so even if you succeed – prepare for the next social battle. And if you do get pregnant, there might be complications and most women don’t even have the access to a constant and proper health care. Let’s stop pushing people to having babies, because such actions may lead to serious consequences instead. What Alejandra did was wrong, but at the same time I understand her situation and how overwhelmed she must have felt. No woman should be pushed into such position.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Could I be your Reinemachefrau? “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid” (1982)

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directed by Carl Reiner
© 1982 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

If you’re wondering why they chose this particular title for the film, let me explain really quickly. Apparently, the main character tells a story of some woman who’s crazy about plaids. The thing is… they finally decided to cut this scene off, so the title doesn’t make sense. However, at the same time it perfectly fits the general story, which is full of irrational elements and goofy humour. We’re following a detective Rigby Reardon (Steve Martin), who’s working on a murder case. The father of Juliet Forrest (Rachel Ward) was killed and the woman wants to know why and by whom. Sounds like a classic crime story? Sort of, because the whole film is a parody of such, so you’ll laugh way more than experience a decent thrill. The fact that it was shot black and white adds up to the final result and can really trick your mind. Especially, since they used several scenes from absolute classics, so how can you giggle when there’s Ingrid Bergman or Cary Grant on the screen? Those actors didn’t actually play in the film, obviously, but thanks to the editting you may believe it’s one story with a bunch of great actors. Some may think it’s disrespectful, but I actually take it as a tribute to their work. They are true icons of crime stories and couldn’t be forgotten, even in a parody. Steve Martin did what he does best – he delivered an adroable silly role, which cheers up whole families. And at the same, he proves that both dramatic and comedic roles require skills and experience. Just because he makes us smile instead of crying doesn’t mean he’s less of an artist. And that’s a big reflection I’ve taken from this film. Besides, I had a joyful time, perhaps a bit cringy from time to time, but in general I recommend you this parody. You can also play a game and try to guess the titles of all the films they used in editting. Let’s see what kind of cinephile you are, shall we?

My rating: 7/10
S.

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.