I really like freedom. “Viva Verdi!” (2024)

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directed by Yvonne Russo
© 2024 La Monte Productions. All Rights Reserved.

This wasn’t my favourite documentary nominated to Oscars this year, but it’s definitely a story worth learning about. In Milan, Italy, there’s a house, where a true magic happens. Elderly musicians enjoy their last moments there, and by “enjoy” I mean living to the fullest in their own style. It’s not an ordinary retirement home. All the residents there keep on doing what they love the most, which is music. They play, they jam, they sing and they also mentor young musicians living together with them. Yes, two generations share the same space, connected by the passion to music. The house was built by Giuseppe Verdi, an opera composer in 1896 and it’s also known as Casa di Riposo per Musicisti (“rest home for musician”). I’d never heard of it until watching this documentary. The place seems phenomenal, considering the fact that it unites the artists, who can learn from each other and make an impact on the other generation. But there’s the sad part of the story as well. The house was actually built in order to give shelter to the elderly musicians who haven’t succeeded in professional life, at least when it comes to finances. They often don’t have enough savings to afford living on their own or in another retirement home. So Casa Verdi is their asylum, where they can peacefully spend time among people with similar values. I find it beautiful and inspiring. I wish there were more places like this one, where seniors stay active in their passion till the very end. The documentary itself wasn’t anyhow spectacular, but the story of Casa Verdi is, so make sure to see it.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I’m gonna open the gates of heaven for you. “Bastard” (“Bandyta”, 1997)

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directed by Maciej Dejczer
© 1997 Vision Film Distribution. All Rights Reserved.

Recently, I recommended you a biographical film about a group of very smart and stubborn people, thanks to whom we may support couples in having children with the use of in vitro fertilisation. I mentioned the possibility of adopting a child, which some groups use as an argument against IVF, but it’s not an easy path to go through. However, if you have a chance and you feel strong enough to adopt a child, please, consider it. Today, I’d like to tell you about a film that shows the reality of orphanages. Even though it’s made in the 90s, I believe many places still share the same atmosphere. No matter how supportive the employees are, those children need a loving home. But the film is not only about orphans and their living situation. We get to know Brutecki (Til Schweiger), a criminal, who’s one day sent to Romania for a prisoner rehabilitation program. He’s supposed to work in a hospital for orphans. It’s already a difficult place to be in, considering the fact that those children have no families and struggle with health issues. However, the things get even more complicated when Brutecki finds out about an illegal procedure taking place there. The staff sell the children to couples from the West, who pay good money. Sounds like a horrible idea, but it’s actually the only way to earn money for supporting the little patients staying in the hospital. Also, the sold children have a chance for a better life, even though they were bought like a product… Brutecki is trying to adjust to this reality, when he creates a strong bond with one of the girls, Elena (Ida Jabłońska). What happens next is for you to see. I’m not recommending this film only because it’s set in a hospital for orphans, but because it shows how much one can change when they experience a new reality. It’s a difficult production and perhaps it could have been made a bit better, but the story itself is worth discovering.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I fail every day in the hope that I’ll succeed once in twenty years. “Joy” (2024)

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directed by Ben Taylor
© 2024 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

In vitro procedure is one of the most spectacular and also controversial innovations in medicine. It’s a chance for many couples to become parents despite having troubles or health issues that prevent them from bringing a child to this world. To me, it’s obvious that if we can help them, we should do everything to do so. However, in many countries this procedure is not allowed or respected. Why? There are many reasons, starting from ethical and religious motivations. In numerous religions it is unbelievable to start a life in an artificial way, which is against their rules. Supporters of in vitro are often put in the same box as pro-choice supporters (abortion), because both procedures require interference in human life. Scientists and doctors shouldn’t play gods, in their opinion, and just let the things be as they are. There’s also an argument that the couples who cannot have their biological child may adopt one. Yes, that’s true. However, not every person is ready for such decision. Personally, I see no difference and I’d love an adopted child equally strong as my biological one, but I know that not everyone sees it this way. Also, the adoption procedure is very complex and it takes years to get the permission to become parents. Years of meetings, trainings, filling out documents and experiencing rejections. That is why some people take an action to help couples become biological parents with the use of technology and modern medicine. Today’s film presents the story of Jean Purdy (Thomasin McKenzie), a nurse and embryologist, Dr Robert Edwards (James Norton), an ambitious scientist, and Patrick Steptoe (Bill Nighy), an innovative surgeon. Those three incredible people managed to bring to this world the first child by in vitro fertilisation. I hope you don’t consider it a spoiler, since we have millions of people born thanks to this metod nowadays, so it obviously had to work out in the story. The first IVF child is named Louise Joy Brown and she’s almost 48 years old. 48 years of making miracles happen. I’m glad this film was produced, because those are the superheroes we should be learning about. It is full of joy, indeed, and I hope that if you’re against IVF, you will perhaps look at it from a different perspective thanks to this production.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Don’t ever pretend you know something you don’t. “Ella McCay” (2025)

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directed by James L. Brooks
© 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Perhaps you’ll be surprised by this recommendation, because a lot of people have rated the film low, but I actually enjoyed it. I hope my post will encourage you to watch it and create your own opinion. The film is labeled as a political comedy, but I believe it’s something much deeper. We get to know Ella (Emma Mackey), who’s a lieutenant governor, very much dedicated to her work. The governor resigns from his new presidential position leaving Ella to take over the responsibilities. Unfortunately, she’s not that respected within her party, so the professional life becomes a real struggle. Also, Ella’s private life isn’t such an easy adventure either, since she’s lost her mother, her father abandoned the family and also Ella’s husband isn’t a partner she can count on. This isn’t a comedy about some politicians being politicians and how untrustworthy they can be – I mean, we know that and there’s nothing to laugh at, I guess. This is actually a very interesting picture of a young woman, who has to deal with the world full of expectations towards her. She should be supportive, but also obedient and keeping a low profile. She should be ambitious, but knowing her place. She should be forgiving, even though the ones to forgive have hurt her without any hesitation. She should be brave and stand for her values, but also ready to lose at any time. This production is about being a woman in a very anti-woman’s world. I felt a strong connection with Ella, because even though her story is fictional, all the presented elements couldn’t be more true. And I bet every woman may see a part of herself there. The film is funny from time to time, I agree, but it’s also comforting and uplifting. Why? Because you remind yourself that you’re not the only one and if you think you’re failing, it’s actually you doing your best to survive. So I cannot say it’s a bad film if it’s made an impact on me, right? Also, Jamie Lee Curtis is perfect for playing the role of an aunt. The official aunt of Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen!

My rating: 7/10
S.

Repression is our vaccine! “Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion” (“Indagine su un cittadino al di sopra di ogni sospetto”, 1970)

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directed by Elio Petri
© 1970 Euro International Films. All Rights Reserved.

How would you describe your world with one word? It’s simple – “corruption”. No matter where you go, it’s present everywhere. And if you don’t believe it’s so common, let me introduce you to this lovely production that speaks for itself. We get to know a policeman called “Il Dottore” who has recently been promoted and is very much respected in his workplace. The man comes up with a quite extravagant idea – he murders his mistress and wants to be arrested by his colleagues. He even gives obvious clues to make the investigation ridiculously easy for the policemen, but… they don’t accuse him of anything. What’s more, they are so sure of his innocence that they ignore all the signs of his involvement in the crime. Il Dottore becomes very irritated and comes up with more and more ideas to direct his colleagues’ attention to him. But in the world of corruption, if you’re one of us, nobody dares to act against you. Generally, it’s a comedy, so you may have a good laugh and make fun of silly policemen who are so stupid not to point out the apparent murderer, but at the same time you may start reflecting on the danger of such mindset. Because it’s not about those officers’ skills – it’s about the way they think. We’re so convinced by the way someone presents themselves and how strong our connection is that there’s absolutely no way this noble person could do evil. Also, we tend to believe those in power that they must be trustworthy since they’ve got to the top. And the reality tends to be way different. If you don’t think too much, this film can be very entertaining. But if you’re in the mood for questioning the sense of our existence – then it’ll also work. A great performance by Gian Maria Volonté and a big bowl of food for thought.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I see you. “A Friend of Dorothy” (2025)

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directed by Lee Knight
© 2025 Filthy Gorgeous Productions. All Rights Reserved.

If you’re looking for a new friend, just kick the football really hard and see where it lands. Then go there, knock on the door and let the friendship begin! That’s basically how the story goes here. A teenage boy named JJ (Alistair Nwachukwu) meets Dorothy (Miriam Margolyes), who’s an elderly widow living alone. She’s a typical grumpy grandma from the neighbourhood, but somehow those two have a good vibe between each other. Instead of shouting at the boy for kicking the ball into her property, Dorothy invites him over for a cup of tea. And that’s how an unexpected friendship begins. It’s an adorable short film about building connections despite differences in age, gender, race, or any other. In fact, thanks to Dorothy and JJ, we get reminded that such unusual relations may be surprisingly beneficial for both sides. Also, recently I’ve learnt a new expression – “family by choice” – which refers to all our closest friend, to whom we’re not actually related, but they are like family members to us. Because sometimes, our real families might not fulfil our needs for affection, trust or support. And then, it’s important to search for that somewhere else. In this case, someone found a loving grandma, and the other person found a supportive grandson. If you’re in need for some serotonin, this short film definitely provides it. Make friends, my dearest readers!

My rating: 7/10
S.

The shoe will fit her. “The Ugly Stepsister” (“Den stygge stesøsteren”, 2025)

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directed by Emilie Blichfeldt
© 2025 Scanbox Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

I’ve read a comment saying that this film is a combination of “Cinderella” and “The Substance”… and I couldn’t agree more. That’s exactly what I had in mind while watching “The Ugly Stepsister”. And I must say – I loved it! The film crew took such a boringly common story and made a unique horror out of it. So, if you remember, Cinderella was the poor girl that lost her father and had to live with the evil stepmother and two annoying stepsisters. However, in this film, we get to experience the old story from the perspective of one of the stepsisters, Elvira (Lea Myren). When the prince is looking for his future wife among unmarried ladies, both Elvira and Agnes (Thea Sofie Loch Næss), Cinderella-like character, wish to catch his attention. The problem is that Agnes is the pretty one, so Elvira doesn’t have much chance. However, if only she “corrects” some elements of her body, perhaps the prince won’t even hesitate. That is why Elvira goes through a series of surgeries in order to stop being the ugly stepsister. The filmmakers ask a question: what if Cinderella was the bad character? Why do we always tell this story in the same way and never stop to think of other possibilities? That’s something I definitely appreciated here. Another thing is the costumes, make-up and production design that look fabulous and suit the vibe of this production very well. Also, even though it’s labelled as a comedy, it’s a horror as well, so if you’re a sensitive one – better get yourself a blanket to hide under it from time to time. Maybe it’s not a horror full of jumpscares, but it’s rather very realistic and disgusting. All the zoom-ins may stay in your nightmares for a long time. I believe this film speaks for itself, especially since the director was inspired by Brothers Grimm, David Cronenberg and… a Polish pornography maker. So in case you’re caught watching blue movies, you can always say it’s just one of the steps on your path to win an Oscar. You’re welcome.

My rating: 7/10
S.

You’re so money and you don’t even know it! “Swingers” (1996)

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directed by Doug Liman
© 1996 Miramax Films. All Rights Reserved.

Not sure how about you, but I need some break from difficult topics. That is why today I’m taking you to the 90s, where we will join very young Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn on a male trip. Seatbelts fasten? So, let’s go! Mike (Jon Favreau) is a comedian, or he’s trying to be one, but not succeeding much. He’s also broken up with his girlfriend recently, so he needs a total restart. And here comes Trent (Vince Vaughn), Mike’s friend, who’s an aspiring actor and an absolute womanizer. Who can help a broken-hearted man better than a bestie that has sex with everyone whose name starts with any letter of alphabet? Literally, anyone, but Mike agrees to a trip to Las Vegas, which is a place to go when you want to get wasted, have fun and forget about the reality. But no attractions and amounts of alcohol can help when a man is still in love with the woman of his life. Is this comedy predictable? Of course. It’s like a low-budget grandma of “Hangover” film, but I get it – we all need such brain relaxation from time to time. Maybe the plot isn’t the most engaging, but I really enjoyed seeing Jon and Vince at such young age. You can actually see how awkward they were before and compare their acting to what they can do now. It’s adorable, I must say. Let me point out that thanks to this silly comedy, Vince got hired by Spielberg, so you never know what life may bring. And, also, I’m sure you’ve heard someone screaming “VEGAS, BABY!” – this exact sentence was popularised by “Swingers”. Who would have known that a film about two men having fun would have such impact on culture. Anyway, if you need to restart your brain but you can’t afford going to Las Vegas, this comedy will be a cheaper substitute.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I have absolutely no interest in myself whatsoever. “Blue Moon” (2025)

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directed by Richard Linklater
© 2025 Sony Pictures Classics. All Rights Reserved.

“You’re not old enough, let’s wait 12 years” – said the director of the film to Ethan Hawke. And they did. Some may think it’s ridiculous – they could have chosen any other older actor. But no, it was always supposed to be Ethan Hawke, and, to be honest, I’m grateful for this stubborness. The film focuses on the character of Lorenz Hart, a famous songwriter, whose work has been admired on Broadway. But it’s not another ordinary biopic with a predictable script, which is definitely a huge plus. We move to 1943, where Hart’s former work partner, Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), is celebrating the official premiere of his new musical “Oklahoma!”. The thing is Rodgers decided to cooperate with another writer, Oscar Hammerstein (Simon Delaney), so the night is quite bittersweet for Hart. He sits at the bar and begins a conversation (which is more of a monologue) with a bartender, during which we may learn more about his life, both personal and professional. In fact, the whole opening ceremony is just a background and the main action happens at the bar. At first, I was confused why it takes so long to begin the film, but then I realised that Hart’s monologuing is the main point. I must say, sometimes it was a bit tiring and I was zoning out, but the reason why I’m recommending this production to you is because of the unusual biopic form and Hawke’s performance. Even though my rating is quite average, I do believe Hawke deserved to be awarded for this role. It seems simple, but such are the most difficult to master. And he nailed it! Despite zoning out because of the script, I was absolutely amazed by the power of this character. Just to remind you – he’s just sitting at a bar and talking. That’s it. Yet, you become fascinated by him. Also, it’s a very moving way of presenting what loneliness may look like. That the drunk guy ordering another glass is in fact a lost soul unable to ask for help. I hope you’ll find a moment to see it and reflect on the story.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Sometimes the story we tell ourselves becomes the truth. “Rental Family” (2025)

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directed by Hikari
© 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Have you ever felt so lonely that you’d love to rent yourself a sibling? Or a grandpa? Or your uncle’s second wife’s cousin? Well, this film show you that anything is possible. We get to know Phillip (Brendan Fraser) who’s an American actor living in Tokyo. Despite being a foreigner, he struggles to get any roles, until he learns about “Rental Family”. And it’s exactly what you think it is. Their employees are actors who get hired by people to pretend their family members. The man finds this idea ridiculous and doesn’t want to do it at first, but you know – food costs money. His first job is to get married to a woman, who’s secretly lesbian and needs to make such performance only for her family. Phillip doesn’t approve of this lie, but then realises that it was the woman’s only choice to escape with her wife and live happily. And then he relises that it’s a different way of helping people. If you need some comfort film, this one will hug you, kiss the top of your head and make you hot cocoa with marshmallows. It covers the topic of loneliness from a different perspective and in a new form, but at the same time it reminds us that everyone needs some company. And it’s terrible that in our reality, we must even rent a person to pretend they care about us. What is wrong with the world? Something so basic like affection is not accessible? I mean, it is, if you pay… Yeah, this film may frustrate you as well. But on the other hand, it also reminded m to nurture friendships, even if they aren’t perfect. Because despite all differences and conflicts, if our friend stands with us, it’s a genuine relation. And if your “friend” keeps ignoring your needs and isn’t thankful for your support, then kick them out of your contact list and rent yourself Brendan Fraser. He will never let you down!

My rating: 7/10
S.