I guess we all need something to help us let off steam after a long week, don’t we? That’s why today I’m recommending you a very Friday-ish production, which actually surprised me with its quality and idea. I spotted “Free Guy” on one streaming platform but thought it’s just a random action film and for a long time I didn’t feel the need to watch another copy-paste production. One day, my brain said “enough with difficult films, let me relax” and I ended up watching Ryan Reynolds being a game character. This story is about “Free City”, which is referred to as “MMORPG”. And since I’m not a player myself (unless you count deleting swimming pool ladders in The Sims), let me share what I googled a few minutes before: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Video Game. Basically, you create your own character and play with other people online. However, in that game you can also see some characters that are not controlled by any person, and here comes our Guy (Ryan Reynolds). What’s funny, we get to experience the game from his perspective, which is repetitive and boring. In the end, he’s just a bank employee who has to do the same each time a certain player appears there. Then, one day, thanks to a female player who’s singing Guy’s favourite song, Guy somehow detaches from the game and starts controlling his own self. This film is actually very coherent with what’s going on in technology world nowadays. You know, AI and all that… So yeah, Guy starts “programming” his character himself and can do whatever he wants despite not being controlled by any player. By the way, imagine such MMORPG (yes, I had to check the name, no way I’m remembering all those letters) game in the future where you cannot distinguish human-controlled characters from those controlled by AI. Creepy, but I’d totally watch a sci-fi thriller about that – just please, mention me in the credits. Anyway, the game obviously changes and the owners have to decide what to do with a self-controlling character of Guy. I have to say that I had a lot of fun watching this film and I believe the idea was very creative. It’s one of those family productions that may entertain everyone and parents don’t have to pretend they’re having fun watching ponies brushing each other’s hair and stuff. Oh and if you laughed at me admitting to be The Sims player – hold your horses, sir or madam. The production designer of this comedy has mentioned that “The Sims” was actually one of his inspirations for creating “Free City” world. You never know what may inspire you to making a film, and I guess that’s what I love about cinema. So sul-sul to everyone selling windows to pay bills of the Goth family and enjoy this weekend with Ryan Reynolds as a banker in (once again, had to check that) a MMORPG.
The girl who was born too early… We’ve just lost Sinéad O’Connor, a very talented and extraordinary musician. If you didn’t know her when she was a young artist, perhaps you might not be her biggest fan for what she was doing in her last years. To be honest, I wasn’t following her that much because I wished to remember her for her music career and not her personal struggles. However, when I found out that she passed away, I decided to see this documentary, to perhaps understand the transition she went through. From the very beginning Sinéad was a rebel and definitely not afraid to do whatever she wanted. But her behaviour could have been justified since she wasn’t much supported by her parents. She even wrote a public letter saying “If only I can fight off the voices of my parents and gather a sense of self-esteem(…)”. Your background matters a lot, even if you succeed in the future, there’s always something deep inside that makes you suffer, and we could see that in Sinéad. Still, despite the difficulties and her unusual style, she became a true music icon and was appreciated by many musical specialists. She had this amazing vibe and people could experience the music together with her on a totally new level. At the beginning of this post I wrote that she was born too early – and I’m sure of it. If only she was in her 20s now, she would have been a leader of various minorities. Through her art she was trying to fight against patriarchy, racism and social inequalities, which nowadays would have been heard much better. Back then she was still a strange woman not following the rules that most people followed, so obviously it’s difficult for her to make a significant change. Still, she was making a lot of progress in her musical career until one day… And if you know her story, you know exactly what happened. But I’m not going to comment on that because that might be an interesting plot twist for those who are just learning about Sinéad. Did she do the right thing? I can’t say. I supported her views and the willingness to make a change in this world, but sometimes it’s important to think of the consequences. She wasn’t doing that. She was a very concrete, stubborn and brave woman who was screaming loud while experiencing maltreatment. I believe she could have become an activism icon once again if only someone had helped her, especially after her son’s death in 2022. I kind of feel like she’s a human reminder of how much we fail as humanity… There are so many negative posts about her, especially in the last years, but why didn’t we think of giving her a hand? Perhaps she just needed more attention, but not as a music star – just as Sinéad. She was diagnosed with so many disorders, yet even celebrities decided to publicly mock her. We definitely need to reflect on her case and take mental health much more seriously than we already do. Anyway, this documentary was obviously made when Sinéad was still alive and it focuses on her young self who was a true sunshine willing to connect with people through music and not wanting to support the evil in this world. And that’s the picture of her I want to remember. Rest in peace, Sinéad.
At one documentary festival this year I had a chance to see several very good productions and today I’m sharing one with you. Generally, I’m not much interested in politics and never-ending discussions who said what and who did what, so I try to avoid films that are too political. However, since I’m a traveller and I’ve always been fascinated by the countries that are especially difficult to reach for me, I couldn’t just skip a documentary about North Korea. What I learnt from this film is much more than I’d expected so fasten your seat belts. Despite the fact that it’s a documentary about North Korea, the person that we’re following is actually Danish. Ulrich Larsen used to work as a chef, but had to retire because of a serious illness. How come a Danish chef becomes the main figure in this film? Well, Mads Brügger, the director, had previously made a documentary series called “The Red Chapel” (“Det Røde Kapel”), which is shortly speaking (you’ll find out more about it in today’s film) about Danish comedians that “accidentally” performed in North Korea and mocked their authorities there. As you might be guessing, Brügger was immediately put on the list of people who mustn’t enter the country, so his filmmaking plans about this particular region are quite limited. And here comes our Danish chef Ulrich, who has seen Brügger’s series and decided to join the Korean Friendship Association, which is basically a group of people in Denmark (and all over the world) that are supporting North Korea’s authorities and whatever is happening there. The two men have agreed to cooperate and from that moment on Ulrich was the director’s mole. His task was to gain as much trust among North Korea supporters as it’s possible and see where that may lead him. And that’s what I’d like you to learn yourselves while watching the documentary, because it’s a lot, trust me. All I can say is that the whole project took… about 10 years. Yes, 10 years. Imagine spending so many years pretending someone you’re not, surrounded by people you don’t trust and you know that all those relations are absolutely fake. At the beginning, when he’s just a member of that association, the consequences wouldn’t have been too harsh if they’d found out about Ulrich’s double-life. But when the things get more serious, the man starts living in a constant danger. And as long as he’s in Denmark, he’s rather safe. But what happens in North Korea, stays in North Korea. Literally. Another reason why you should see this documentary is perhaps learning about the reality in that country. Personally, I read and watch a lot of stuff about different cultures and nations, so I’d known a bit of what’s presented here. But perhaps you don’t and that would be the first time you actually realise the “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” is in fact just “Korea”. This documentary is so unreal that there were moments I forgot I was watching a non-fiction. Sometimes I felt like the pace was a bit too slow, but since it took them so many years to make the film, I cannot complain too much. In the end, it’s a mind-blowing documentary and if you’re a fan of action and mystery films, this one will satisfy you more than most fictional productions. I promise.
I’m the kind of cinephile who’s not ashamed of watching something that most serious film critics would roll eyes hearing of. Today, I’d like to recommend you a story that I rewatched way too many times when I was growing up. But before you stop reading thinking it’s a silly comedy for teenagers, let me just assure you that it’s not. No matter how old you are, I bet you’d find something for yourself in it. At the beginning, we get to know Terri (Hilary Duff), a very talented teenager whose biggest dream is to become a singer. She’s applied for a music program in Los Angeles that may not only be her first step in the singing career, but also a chance to get a scholarship to study music. The girl’s biggest fan and supporter is her brother Paul (Jason Ritter). Unfortunately, the boy dies in a car accident, which makes Terri question whether she should take a risk and participate in the program. Especially since her father doesn’t approve his daughter’s plans. As you might be guessing, Terri secretly joins the summer courses. Will a shy teenager singing in a choir become a professional-to-be? You have to see yourselves. I watched this film for the first time simply because Hilary Duff was starring in it and back then, in the early 00s, she was a very popular young actress. Who doesn’t know Lizzie McGuire, right? And I remember how much “Raise Your Voice” hit me. I expected a cute romantic comedy with a cheerful and perhaps a bit clumsy girl, and I ended up crying like a baby questioning my young life’s choices. I swear. Terri is struggling with a big loss and lack of understanding coming from her parent, but at the same time she is really talented and deep inside she knows what she wants to do. I bet you all have gone through such stage in your teenage life where you had to lead a battle between yourself and… well, yourself again? Young people are constantly being pushed by their family, society, friends, yet they need to remember of their plans and ambitions, so the fact that they are somehow managing in this crazy world is more than amazing. Even though this film was made in 2004, I believe many current teens may find this story comforting. Besides, it’s full of songs that give so much of the 00s vibe that it’s impossible not to bounce to them. Have I mentioned that one of the teachers that Terri works with during the program is played by John Corbett? Oh I wish I had such goofy yet inspiring music teacher. Well, I did, but he was much older and definitely less handsome. And I’m definitely not recommending this film because I had a huge crush on Oliver James, who plays the role of Jay – another young musician who gets “interested” in Terri. Not at all… But seriously speaking, this story may seem basic and predictable, but if you’re a sensitive person who didn’t have it easy as a teen, then you’ll enjoy this little nostalgic ride. It has well-written characters, lots of funny moments, good music and a dramatic pinch that may touch your heart. Perfect musical drama if you ask me. Besides, we all need a little break from ambitious productions that you have to watch 3 times to understand what’s going on, right? So take that break. The film was, in fact, a box-office flop, but I don’t care. My teenage self was a big fan and my adult self won’t forget about that.
Are you ready for the last adventure with Indy? I’m not, but I know a lot of you are expecting my post about it and I was mean enough to keep you waiting… Sorry for that. In order to make myself clear and present you my personal point of view, I believed it was needed to write about all the previous parts before focusing on the newest one. The day has come, so let’s do it. The last film was released 15 years after the fourth one and over 40 years after the first one, which I already considered a huge challenge for the filmmakers. It’s 1969 and everyone’s celebrating the fact that Apollo 11 landed on the moon, so just to give you an idea where in time the film is set. Indy is an elderly man, who’s about to retire from working as a professor. Oh, SPOILERS are already coming, but I guess you cannot complain – it’s the fifth part in the end. We find out that Indy and Marion are no longer together due to their mutual trauma about losing Mutt – their only son. The young man died in the Vietnam War, which emotionally destroyed both parents. Thanks to a little retrospection, we learn that Indy had a good friend named Basil Shaw, with whom they were trying to save history and put certain objects in the museum (classic Indy). Surprisingly, the retiring professor is visited by Basil’s daughter and his own goddaughter, Helena Shaw (Phoebe Waller-Bridge). The woman has become an archeologist and is fascinated by Antikythera, an ancient mechanism that, according to the film, was created by Archimedes himself, and that most probably allows to travel in time. As you might be guessing, Helena is not the only one who wants to find it and here come the most typical villains in the series – the Nazis. Or actually one of them – Jürgen Voller (Mads Mikkelsen), a scientist and astrophysicist, who would love to obtain the ancient mechanism and go back in time to correct certain mistakes that Germans made in the WWII. Indiana, despite his age, decides to join Helena and together find what her father was searching for till his last days. And save the world, in the meantime. If you’re not a patient reader, you’ve probably already seen my rating. Personally, I believe this part is not that bad. First, I’m aware of the fact it wasn’t directed by Spielberg and that they had a different plan for the series. As I mentioned in my previous text about the fourth part, Shia was supposed to carry on. The filmmakers were struggling with the script a lot, and I believe it was because Spielberg still couldn’t agree with the fact that Mutt wouldn’t be our new Indy. So considering the circumstances, I think the idea to kill Mutt in the War was actually the best option. Second, I’ve heard a lot of negative comments about presenting Indy as a weak and hopeless man, which is not consistent with his character. But hey, he’s a man who lost a child and the love of his life. To me it was actually more than logical to show that he’s an ordinary man, just like us, who also struggles with such big loss. He’s no hero, he’s a human being and he has the right to be in grief. Besides, as a character, he’s no longer in his 40s, so give him a break. Third, I actually liked the character of Helena and I believe they made a great casting choice. Phoebe has this adventurous and sassy vibe that makes her a perfect companion, or even protagonist, but I’ll get back to that. Fourth, finishing the series with the fourth part wouldn’t have been satisfying enough, in my opinion. We deserved to know what happened to Indy, especially since it’s obvious Mutt was going to take over. Finishing Indy’s story, even in a bit disappointing way, made the story complete. Fifth, mind the fact that thanks to Helena, Indy has regained his hope and pride. He had another chance to try himself as Indiana Jones, experience new adventures, make use of his knowledge and remind himself of his greatness. This is how I read the story and I’m satisfied with it. Obviously, I’d have changed a lot of elements, like the ending… going back in time was really unnecessary, but I know that it was probably Lucas’ responsibility. Spielberg was more old-fashioned and he wanted to keep it that way. But if you mix Lucas and Disney, you end up in 212 BC. I didn’t like that part at all, although hearing Helena saying “big fan” to Archimedes actually made me laugh at loud, so in the end, there was something worth waiting for. Another thing is the character of Teddy (Ethann Isidore). The young actor did a very good job, so mind the fact I’m talking about the character only – what was the point of bringing that boy?! In my opinion, a horribly written character. Was it supposed to be a copy of Shorty from the second film? Not a good one. Shorty was smart, but Teddy was just annoying, to be honest. He had some strange superpowers that made me question everything he was doing. And the moment when he starts a plane… I bet Spielberg wouldn’t have agreed to that. So Ethann, great job, I’m just sorry you got such a badly designed character to play. And guys, if you agree with me, please don’t hate the actor, let’s just disagree with the writers instead, shall we? However, when it comes to the first sequence of the film, set in 1944, I actually loved it. It took them a looooot of work to de-age Harrison (over 100 artists working for over 3 years… imagine!) and that sequence put me in the adventurous mood immediately. Of course I could say it’s AI in some moments, but it’s like judging Marvel’s productions for not being realistic. It’s action and adventure, it should be illogical, irrational, strange and fun. And I have to say that I enjoyed those 2,5 hours in the cinema. To me, considering the circumstances, the crew did a very good job. One thing that I would add is… bringing Shorty back. Imagine how cool that would be! Ke Huy Quan is still an active actor and he could have added some additional nostalgia to the story. I believe that Disney will continue the story of Indiana with Helena and perhaps they’ll make a new series, especially since the mechanism for travelling in time is with her. So if by any chance someone from the producing crew is reading my post – please bring Shorty back. We would love that! And for now, let’s say goodbye to Indiana Jones, a true legend and probably the reason why a lot of people went studying archeology in the last 40 years. Those films are a true gem in the history of cinema and instead of complaining, let’s appreciate the fact we’re living in times where we could join Harrison in his adventures on the screen. And don’t you dare forget – that belongs in a museum!
Another day, another Indiana Jones adventure. We’ve already covered the first three, and probably the most appreciated parts, but today I’d like to focus on the fourth film, which is actually my second favourite. Yes, you’ve read me right – this is my second favourite film of all the five. Now, before you have a heart attack and start questioning my taste, let me say a few words about the plot and I shall explain my choice. So, this part was made much later, in 2008, but the action takes place in the 50s. Indy is obviously a bit older and this time his main enemies are Soviet agents. All of them are very much interested in finding the alien corpse, which was said to be found in the Rosswell incident. Soon, Indy is approached by some young guy named Mutt Williams (Shia LaBeouf), who claims to know Indy’s old friend and colleague Harold Oxley (John Hurt). Apparently, the professor has been abducted, but before, he managed to find the crystal skull, which most probably belongs to an alien. As you might be guessing, Indy and Mutt start their adventure to find the skull, the professor and also Mutt’s mother. And if you haven’t seen this part, please do and then get back to my text, because SPOILERS are coming now. So… I guess I owe you some explanations why this is my second favourite film of the series. First, I love the fact that Indy doesn’t fight against Nazis again. As I said in my previous post, I believe it’s not a bad idea, but if every part had been about that, we would have had enough. I actually do have enough after three parts with Nazis, but never mind. Perhaps I’ll surprise you, but it was Spielberg who decided to change the villains. He was still very much influenced by his own film “Schindler’s List” (a magnificent one, just saying) that he couldn’t suddenly present Nazis in this more easy-going way, in a rather comedic film. So after discussing it with Lucas, they decided that Indy would be fighting against Soviet agents, which was actually more logical considering the period of time in the film. Second, I’m glad that Marion got back. I have to be honest – bringing other ladies to the picture was a very bad idea and made me dislike Indy a bit. I know, he’s a male protagonist and they always look good with a woman by their side, but Indy was different (at least according to me) and in this film we can see how much he loved Marion. There’s even this beautiful scene where they are all in danger and he still finds a moment to compliment her – I always laugh and awww in silence at that moment. She’s always been the one and only and I’m glad they brought her back. Third, say whatever you want but Shia should have been the new Indiana Jones. Boom! He is a disgustingly talented actor who, in my opinion, proved his ability to continue the series. The filmmakers and producers claim that they weren’t that satisfied with him after this film, but I’m afraid there was another reason. Have you noticed that Shia disappeared at that time from Hollywood? We all know such stories, don’t we? I bet it wasn’t about him not being enough. He was more than enough. But Hollywood is just a business, like any other. You don’t follow their rules, you’re out. Mind the fact that the ending was so obviously pointing out that Mutt takes over (the hat scene in the church). I’m actually disappointed they didn’t manage to continue the series this way. I bet it’d have been much better than what they offered us in the fifth film. Even Spielberg didn’t direct the last part despite having directed all the rest. Coincidence? I secretly hope he was also disappointed about not continuing the series with Shia. Oh well, too bad. Lastly, I actually found it fun and exotic that Indy was dealing with aliens in this part. I know there are many people who may say that only the first three parts matter, but I’m here to defend the fourth part and perhaps encourage you to give it another shot. And one more film to go, so see you next time!
I’ve just realised that today’s the 13th and when I used to write posts everyday (yes, I was that crazy at the beginning) the 13th of every month was saved for films that I didn’t like. What a coincidence… Well, it’s still Indiana Jones and it’s still Steven Spielberg, so it’s rather impossible for me to dislike it, but I have to admit that this part is my least favourite. But first things first: at the beginning we have some shots from the past, meaning 1912, when Indy was still a very young guy and he was trying to save a crucifix from a group of robbers. In 1938, the action is again focused on that crucifix, but I don’t want to spoil what happens there exactly. Anyway, to me that beginning is a bit pointless, especially moving back to 1912, but hey, that’s just my opinion. Then we move on to the main story – Indy finds out that his father Henry (Sean Connery) has disappeared. The man is an explorer as well, so obviously he went missing while searching for some important artefact. This time it’s the Holy Grail, which is said to be some kind of mystical cup that has incredible power. So in this part Indy has to find the Grail and his own father. And as I said, this part is, in my humble opinion, the least adventurous and exciting of them all. First, I feel like Indy’s father is in the spotlight more than Indy, which makes the film feel like it’s some kind of side story instead of another part of the series. Second, Nazis again… I mean, I know that Spielberg is somehow fixated on the topic of WWII, which I respect because otherwise we wouldn’t have got his other amazing productions, but too much is too much. On the other hand, they set the story in the 30s so it was quite difficult to avoid bringing Nazis into the pictures. Still, Indy is an archeologist – he could have fought some ancient cults in the jungle again instead of the N guys… Third, to me the action is horribly slow in this part. And I kind of felt like they made the film just to have it done, which might not be that far from the truth. In fact, the filmmakers signed a contract for five Indiana Jones films, but since people weren’t much excited after seeing the second film (apparently camels > voodoo), they decided to finish the project with a trilogy. And, perhaps, to satisfy the audience, they got back to the style of the first film, which is quite obvious and visible. No matter what people say, I have the right to share my opinion and here it is: instead of progressing with Indy as a character and making his adventures more and more surprising, they gave us a drama with Nazis, little action, a few jokes and cringy special effects (the worst of the whole series). Why, Mr. Spielberg, why?! I mean, I know why – money. If Spielberg and Lucas kept on progressing with this project, they would have made a much better series, but at the same time they would have risked losing viewers. Fewer viewers = less money. Besides, even if they wanted to finish with the third part (we now know they didn’t), they didn’t do it in any satisfying way. I mean, the ending of the second part is more memorable than the ending of the third one. Something was not right… Anyway, not to be all negative, I have to praise the fact that Sean Connery as Indy’s father was a wonderful choice and their tandem was just adorable, especially since Indy played the more reasonable one and Henry was just a big child who would do anything out of curiosity. And I’m not saying this production is bad, because it’s not – it’s still an enjoyable action and adventure film. But comparing to other parts… sorry, that’s not my favourite for sure. And I bet the filmmakers would agree with me. Luckily, the series didn’t end after three films so stay tuned for a journey to another millennium.
How old were you when you found out that the first film about Indiana Jones doesn’t have his name in the title? Surprise, surprise! The first film is called “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and only later, when the sequels appeared, it was retitled to “Indiana Jones and…” and all that thanks to Lucas. However, Spielberg said the original title should still stay as it was, because Indy was, in fact, one of the raiders. So you may find that production with different titles, however, the second part is one and only: “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (because Indy wasn’t a temple himself… yes, that was supposed to be a joke… sorry). We’re already starting with a fun fact – the second film is actually set a year before what happened in the first one, so we’re going back to 1935. At the beginning, we can see Indy doing some 007 actions, which lead him to taking a plane and ending up in a small Indian village. He’s accompanied by his 11-year-old friend Shorty (Ke Huy Quan), a very bright kiddo, and Willie (Kate Capshaw), a nightclub singer who got there by accident. Another fun fact before we move on – Willie got her name after Spielberg’s Cocker Spaniel. So I guess we should bless the filmmakers’ doggos. Back to the story, the villagers beg Indy to help them find the stolen stone that was providing their people with food and peace, which are now gone. The cult that has stolen the stone is also responsible for kidnapping their children, which becomes even more difficult, but hey, uncle Indy can do anything, right? And when he finally enters the temple… a true rollercoaster begins. I think that this film is the most mysterious and, let’s face it, disgusting of them all. And you know what? It’s probably my favourite part. The cult has some kind of leader, a priest names Mola Ram (Amrish Puri), who used to scare me when I was little. As a child, I was watching Indiana Jones films in a random order, sometimes I could see some parts on TV, and after all those years I still remember the second film best. Maybe my inner psychopath enjoyed seeing burning people or a beating heart in someone’s hand… I mean, we are different, right? But seriously speaking, to me this part is the most outstanding and much different from others, which is also thanks to Lucas who didn’t want Indy to fight with Nazis again – and that’s why they set the second film in 1935. Don’t get me wrong, seeing Indy kicking Nazis butts is pure pleasure, but if we get that in every film, the story becomes dull. And I bet that if you’ve seen all the films only once, you may struggle to match scenes with titles. Especially since in the newest part they did some computer magic and Indy looks young again. But back to the “Temple of Doom”, I also love it for bringing the character of Shorty. That boy was legendary and it’s a huge pity that they didn’t continue working with him… But I’ll get back to Shorty in my post about the newest Indy film, so be patient. What’s more, I believe that this film puts a spotlight on an important topic of child labour. I know that it was a fictional production, but if you take a moment and think about it – even now, in 2023, as I’m writing this post, in some parts of the world children are slaves who work in horrible conditions, away from their families. So whenever I see the ending of this part and hear Williams music in the background, I shed a tear. But to stay objective, I have to point out the weakest element of this production and that’s… Willie. Holy spirits how annoying that woman was (talking about the character). I know that in all those action films every protagonist has to have some hot lady next to him, but really? In the first part we had Marion, a beautiful and intelligent adventurer, but then, in the second part we get an annoying blondie whom I’d love to sacrifice in that fire in the temple. No jokes here. And okay, I know, her character was supposed to get in trouble and make us laugh, but why did Indy fall for her? Indy! A scientist, polyglot, archeologist… This is just insane. So yeah, if you gave me Indy and Shorty only, that’d be my 10/10. So I hope you’ll dream of Mola Ram tonight and see you next time at the last crusade.
Since recently we were given another film with Indiana Jones (the last, in my opinion), I’ve decided to go through the whole series and remind you about the awesomeness of uncle Indy. If you want to see the newest part or you’ve seen it and didn’t like it that much, perhaps you should go through all the previous films in order to understand certain elements in the 2023 film. Today, we’re moving back to 1981 and “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, or I should rather say 1936 because that’s where the story is set. Dr. Henry Walton “Indiana” Jones, Jr. (Harrison Ford) is an archaeologist who likes to bore students with too much theory at university, but also go for adventures and risk his life for the sake of saving history. It’s called balance. One day, Indy (to name him shortly and save us all a lot of time) is asked to support special agents and help them to basically save the world from one and only Adolf Hitler. The dictator wants to posses the mysterious Ark of the Covenant, which is an artefact in the form of a chest where the stone tables with Ten Commandments could be found. It is also believed that if Hitler finds the chest first, his army may become invincible. That is why Indy decides to save the world and find the artefact before the psycho with a terrible moustache. If you’re a pretty young reader, you might think that the story seems boring and hackneyed, but let me remind you it was made over 40 years ago. Back then, Indiana, a simple professor who gets out of his comfort zone and does things ordinary people wouldn’t even try doing – that was something. This film is still considered a legendary one and a piece that has influenced the cinema significantly. Well, cannot disagree with that. I’m a big fan of Indy and Spielberg & Lucas team, because I feel like they are the wealthy and talented artists who make our childhood dreams come true. Think about it – they’ve made numerous films that took us to another universe, played with our imagination and made us feel like kiddos again. And that’s one of the reasons Indy is loved so much by people all around the world. Do I have to tell you that it’s technically outstanding? Obvious things if such filmmakers are responsible for it. And the music? Chapeau bas to John Williams, the genius himself. However, I bet that you’d like to learn some fun facts about this film, so I’m more than happy to share them. First, the main character was supposed to be named Indiana Smith, but thanks to uncle Spielberg, we got Mr. Jones. But what’s even funnier – Indiana got his name after George Lucas’ dog… And the dog was also the inspiration for creating Chewbacca. And who was Chewbacca best friend in “Star Wars”? Han Solo, aka Harrison Ford, aka Indiana Jones. Mind – blown! Second, you probably guess the casting was complicated and many people were considered to play the roles of Indy, Marion and all others, but one option caught my attention in particular. In this film, Indy has a good friend Sallah (John Rhys-Davies), an Egyptian excavator. Guess who was about to take that part… Danny DeVito, ladies and gentlemen. But because of his other responsibilities, he couldn’t accept that. Well, as much as I love Danny, I have to say: thank you for being busy back then. Third, remember that horrible scene with snakes? Well, they were very much real. In fact, Spielberg was complaining that they didn’t have enough of them… So before you think being an actor is a piece of cake, then think twice before uncle Steven puts a cobra on your shoulder. And requires a retake. Or ten. So, I hope you feel encouraged to refresh your memory and search for the Lost Ark with Indy. And that’s just the beginning.
I remember when I was watching “The Kominsky Method” and Michael Douglas was joking together with Alan Arkin about death – not even once – and I was thinking “damn, that would be just awful if any of them passed away in real”. And the day has come… Recently, we lost Alan Arkin, a marvellous actor who not only was shining bright in the already mentioned series, but also in many other productions. In order to show my respect, I’d like to dedicate this post to him and recommend you a film that will always make you smile, which I’m sure Mr. Arkin would want. The story starts with a family gathering where we meet all the members – workaholic Sheryl (Toni Collette), her aspiring-to-become-a-coach husband Richard (Greg Kinnear), mysterious and not speaking (by choice) teenage son Dwayne (Paul Dano), adorable daughter Olive (Abigail Breslin) who wants to be a beauty queen, grumpy and rather straight-forward grandpa Edwin (Alan Arkin), and Sheryl’s brother Frank (Steve Carell) who has recently attempted suicide. A family like any other, right? Not even being sarcastic here. Anyway, Olive has been qualified for some beauty pageant called “Little Miss Sunshine”, where little girls dress up like single 40s and entertain the audience. Magnificent event! The family, after a difficult discussion, decide to travel together to California and support the girl in making her dream come true. But since each of the family members is quite specific, you may be sure that the trip becomes a real adventure. This film looks like a comedy as there are numerous hilarious moments, lots of sarcasm and jokes that I personally appreciated, but if you think about it, there’s way more drama hidden somewhere there. I believe this is one of the best productions showing family problems and how important it is to support each other even if we really are from different planets. Besides, the cast couldn’t be better – each of the actors did a wonderful job, including little Abigail who’s always been a star – and I’m not talking about her cuteness only. That girl was showing a lot of acting talent despite her very young age. I remember that “Little Miss Sunshine” was also my first film with Paul Dano and ever since then I’ve been his huge fan. This man is incredibly under appreciated by the cinema world, in my opinion. However, in order to put a spotlight on Alan Arkin, I’d like to say that the scenes with Edwin and Olive really warm my heart. Even the actress who played Olive shared a touching post remembering Alan Arkin from that production. In fact, I shed a tear reading her words. She wrote: “Although we were not related in real life, you will alway be “Grandpa” in my heart.” And I bet he will always be our Grandpa in our hearts as well. Watch “Little Miss Sunshine” and remember this great actor. May you rest in peace, Mr. Arkin.
I have nothing to watch 