A man, a woman and a cello. “The Living Daylights” (1987)

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directed by John Glen
© 1987 United International Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

We’re celebrating 60 years of Bond. James Bond. The only man on this planet who doesn’t age. I’ve asked you on Instagram to share who’s your favourite actor that has played Bond and most of you chose either Sean Connery or Daniel Craig, a few Pierce Brosnan. And as much as I’m not surprised by your choices, I bet you’d be quite shocked to hear mine. I believe that the best and, at the same time, very underrated Bond was Timothy Dalton. Dear Bond fans, are you still breathing? Hope so. But before I explain my choice, let me recommend you one of two films were Timothy Dalton played the famous agent. In “The Living Daylights” James has to keep a KGB (short history lesson – security agency in the Soviet Union) General safe and help him get to the West from Bratislava in Czechoslovakia (yes, dear young readers, it used to be one country). Obviously, things get more complicated and saving one important man turns into a mission where James has to get rid of evil spies and save the world, as always. And of course there’s a gorgeous woman keeping him company with her… cello. Yes, really. Honestly speaking, I’ve never been a huge fan of Bond films as they are rather simple and made to entertain the audience with lots of gadgets, car tricks and beautiful women. However, I do believe it’s an important part of the world’s cinema and as long as we enjoy watching a man in a suit saving the world for the 27th time, let’s do it. I have to admit that this film is not significant to me only because of Dalton’s performance, but mostly because it’s hilarious. If you’ve seen it (small spoilers coming), I bet you were also chuckling when a shed was dancing on the frozen lake or when James and Kara (Maryam d’Abo) were sliding downhill on a cello case. And that’s what I like the most about Bond films – this contrast between a serious, neat agent and absolutely goofy gags. But why do I like Dalton the most out of all Bonds? To me he has this specific charm in his way of being that really corresponds to the character of 007, in my opinion. And, unlike most of you, I cannot see Bond in Craig at all, so all the films with him are always missing this special spark to me. A lot of people say that Dalton was the least liked Bond of them all, but was he really? Mind the fact, that he played in only 2 films and he was the one to resign as he didn’t want to get bored playing the same character all the time, so we didn’t get enough of him as 007. Plus, he showed a different side of the agent as he was acting more like a gentleman, than a constantly unsatisfied Casanova (*ekhm* Roger Moore *ekhm*). There’s also some mystery hiding in him, mixed with a bit of folly and spontaneity. He’s for sure unpredictable, yet classy, and I believe that’s what James Bond should be all about. So I hope to celebrate 007’s 60th birthday you’ll give a chance to the short Dalton’s performance and enjoy the evening with one of his films. And a martini. Always shaken, not stirred.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Don’t forget the trash. “The 400 Blows” (“Les Quatre Cents Coups”, 1959)

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directed by François Truffaut
© 1959 Cocinor. All Rights Reserved.

Maybe a bit of French New Wave on such beautiful Thursday? I bet you can’t say no. Today I’ve got a real gem for you and I hope you’ll find a moment to see it. You don’t like French films? You don’t like black and white films? Then you definitely have to see this one and change your mind. The story is rather simple and easy to follow. We get to know Antoine (Jean-Pierre Léaud), a little boy living in Paris. At first you may think there’s nothing exceptional about him, but the more you’re observing him, the more you get into his own world, which is not the same the one he has to be living in. Antoine is a dreamer, a rebel, a passionate with some kind of inner truth – and all that makes him a recluse. He struggles to have decent relations with his classmates, the teacher truly can’t stand the boy and his parents aren’t the more thrilled about having such a child. And that’s it, during the film we’re living the life of Antoine. I’d really like you to experience it, so I don’t want to spoil too much, but to me it’s a wonderful film showing how easily we put labels on people. Deep inside, Antoine is not a bad child, yet he’s taken for one. Just because he’s unusual, he has different opinions and dares to dream, doesn’t mean he’s a bad person. And yet, everyone around him tries to prove him wrong. I honestly sympathised with him for the whole film and felt ashamed of the society. And I guess that’s what you may feel as well. But not to say too much, I just recommend you to see it and create your own interpretation. I can just shortly tell you about two facts that I find interesting. One – this film is semi-autobiographical and it’s partially based on Truffaut’s childhood. Two – the title should be remembered in French as it’s not just a random title – it’s actually an idiom meaning “to raise hell”. So now, knowing the title, I bet you want to check out what the hell (you see what I did there?) is going on in this film and why it’s one of the most significant French films ever. By the way, the physical education class scene is absolutely marvellous, so pay attention and don’t miss it! Enjoy!

My rating: 7.5/10
S.

It’s October 3rd. “Mean Girls” (2004)

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directed by Mark Waters
© 2004 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Such date deserves only one film recommendation – “Mean Girls”. If you haven’t seen it and you’re an adult, you may probably feel discouraged because it says it’s a teen comedy and on the poster there are teenagers wearing way too much pink. However, let me change your mind and show you that this film is actually more universal than it seems. We get to know Cady (Lindsay Lohan), a 16-year-old girl who’s been homeschooled as she was living with her parents in Africa. Recently, they’ve moved back to the US and the girl starts going to a state school, where the new reality hits hard. Cady is having troubles understanding her new environment, but luckily she makes two friends – Janis and Damian (Lizzy Caplan & Daniel Franzese), who are trying to help her find her own way. Unfortunately, Cady is spotted by the Plastics – three popular girls who wish to have a fourth pink-wearing lady in their little group. Since Janis doesn’t like the Plastics, she encourages Cady to “join” them and that way they could make fun of their leader, Regina (Rachel McAdams). And that’s when Cady gets lost – she no longer knows whom to follow and, most importantly, who she really is. On the one hand she is a very smart person with her own values, on the other hand she wants to be liked, approved by the popular girls and also catch the attention of her school crush. You may think – ah, classic teen drama. Not really. It was actually written by Tina Fey (who also plays the role of Cady’s Maths teacher) and she made sure not only to make it hilarious (I swear, this film is full of wonderful puns and pleasant sarcasm that I personally adore), but also it kind of shows the teenage life from a perspective of an adult. Obviously, the main character is a 16-year-old girl, but you may feel that the story is being told by someone who’s been there and done that. I love how they presented school as a real traumatic jungle – because let’s face it, that’s what this place is. At the beginning Cady says that she feels strange in a place where adults don’t trust her. One sentence that says it all about our schooling systems. And not only young people don’t get enough quality support from adults, but they need to constantly prove their worth in front of everyone. Hanging out with people they don’t like just to stay popular, pretending to be someone else to impress their crushes, forgetting about their own values just to fit in and so on. That’s a lot for a teenager. And besides being a really enjoyable comedy with probably best screenplay of such kind, it’s a film that should be seen also by adults, teachers, parents – because maybe then we would understand teenagers a bit better. And if you’re a teenager, stay strong buddy! Remember, being yourself is so fetch!

My rating: 7/10
S.

Pleasure is a wonderful thing that we should all have. “Good Luck to You, Leo Grande” (2022)

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directed by Sophie Hyde
© 2022 Lionsgate. All Rights Reserved.

I can’t remember the last time I was so intrigued by a film. When I saw Emma Thompson in the cast, I knew it’d be a good quality production, but I’d no idea how amazed I’d be. We get to know Nancy (Emma Thompson), a retired school teacher who’s waiting in a hotel room for a sex worker she’s hired. Soon we meet Leo (Daryl McCormack), a young and incredibly charming man, who’s doing his best to relax the woman as she seems stressed about the situation. Nancy lost her husband two years before and she admits that she’s never experienced anything spectacular in her sex life. We learn that to her, sex was just a must-be activity, leading to no orgasm in her case. Leo doesn’t only want to do the job, but he seems genuinely concerned about Nancy’s well-being. He feels the need to help the woman deal with some kind of trauma and make sure she experiences the beauty of sex. The film shows their meetings in that hotel room, where they don’t only have sex, but also become friends, despite their significant age difference. At some point we may realise that it’s not only Nancy, who needs support, but Leo as well, even if he’s not fully aware of it. Generally, it is a comedy and it made me laugh several times, but if I had to describe this film with one word it would be “stunning”. It focuses on the topic of sex, which is still a big taboo among many, yet it doesn’t present it as something disgraceful, dirty or shameful – it shows that sex can be (and should be) intimate, passionate, fulfilling, satisfying, safe. And that it should be a cooperation between two (or more) people, not just an activity, where you care only about yourself and your own needs. Also, it points out that sex is for everyone. There’s no such thing as perfect body, perfect age, perfect whatever – we all deserve to be pleased. So at first, it may seem like a comedy about a middle-aged woman looking for some fun with a younger man, but in fact, it’s an incredibly deep story that leaves you stunned. I believed both actors were magnificent in their roles and I couldn’t take my eyes off of them and their chemistry. I hope it won’t be a big spoiler if I tell you we can see naked Emma Thompson in this film – and as she admits herself, it was one of the most difficult things she’s ever had to do. Let me remind you that the actress is currently over 60 years old and in our society it’s common to judge female bodies on a massive scale. That is why it was such a strong scene and I admire Emma with my whole heart for that decision. Not because she has anything to be ashamed of, but because she proves that there’s nothing to be ashamed of. I honestly feel like it’s one of the best films of 2022, so don’t even think of missing it.

My rating: 8/10
S.

There’s nothing you have to do. “Blind Chance” (“Przypadek”, 1987)

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directed by Krzysztof Kieślowski
© 1987 Zespół Filmowy “Tor”. All Rights Reserved.

Recently, I shared with you a recommendation of “Run Lola Run”, which many critics compare to “Blind Chance” by Krzysztof Kieślowski and believe the German producers have found a lot of inspiration in the Polish drama. And since I’m a big fan of “Blind Chance”, there’s no chance I’m going to skip writing about it. The main character is Witek (Bogusław Linda), a student who has to catch a train. Simple. He’s in a big hurry, but luckily manages to catch it. Later we follow him and his actions, which lead to a certain ending. Then we get back to that railway station and again see Witek trying to catch a train, but this time he’s stopped by a security guard, with whom he gets into a fight, and not only misses his train, but also ends up being forced to do public works as a kind of punishment. And as you might be guessing, his life looks totally different than in the first scenario. However, that’s not the end, because at some point we get back to the same railway station for the third time and now Witek misses his train without getting into any fight. And again, he goes through absolutely different adventures. I have to admit that it’s probably one of my beloved films made by Kieślowski, as it speaks to me each time I rewatch it. However, the first time I saw it was definitely an unforgettable experience, because I discovered a new way of telling the story and a new way of playing some sort of a mind game with the viewer. I remember how speechless I was when I saw the ending – it was the biggest cherry on the tastiest cinematographic cake I’d had. What’s interesting is that nowadays this film is very much appreciated by critics all over the world, but back then many authorities were against it – not only because of political reasons, but they also saw it as a production with a limited artistic expression. Adorable paradox, considering the kinds of films they actually approved. Anyway, even though the film had its premiere in 1987, it was made before that, but due to the martial law, they weren’t allowed to screen it for six years. I’ve read a lot of different interpretations of this film and I feel like each person may read it differently, which, in my opinion, makes it a quality production. Some believe that only one of the three scenarios was real, some others say they were all hypothetical. Some see it as an unrealistic picture, some others couldn’t imagine a better presented reality of the 80s. How do I see it? For me it’s a story which reminds us that no matter what path we choose, what happens to us – we should always remain true to ourselves and our own values. I recommend you to pay attention to the main character and how he acts in all three versions, I bet you’ll understand what I mean. And if you’ve never seen any film by Kieślowski, I bet this one is a perfect start.

My rating: 8/10
S.

There is nothing called ‘hope’ in my future. “Born into Brothels: Calcutta’s Red Light Kids” (2004)

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directed by Zane Briski & Ross Kauffman
© 2004 THINKFilm. All Rights Reserved.

Do you happen to know which film won the Oscar for being the Best Documentary Feature in 2005? Well, the one that I’m going to describe today. But before I tell you more, I’d like to point out that it’s not a production for sensitive people. In fact, I feel like this documentary may show you that you’re more sensitive than you can imagine. It’s hard for me to think of a person who wouldn’t feel ashamed of our society after watching it. The documentary was made in Kolkata, India. The filmmakers wanted to present the life of sex workers living in the red light district, and while they were there, they had a chance to get to know numerous children of those women. They came up with an idea to teach the children photography and that way get the permission to photograph their families as well. So what you will see in the documentary is mainly the life of those children, also from their own perspective. First, I have to say that I admire the filmmakers for their mental strength as working in such conditions must have been incredibly hard. It’s difficult for us to watch the film, so imagine being there and feeling absolutely helpless. Because the filmmakers didn’t only want to make the documentary and leave – they wanted to make an impact on those children and help them get out of the toxic environment they’re living in. At the end you may find out what happened to them, I don’t want to spoil anything, yet prepare yourself for rather depressing 85 minutes. Even though all those little humans are adorable, curious, big-hearted and cheerful, their live isn’t. Or wasn’t. You’ll see. What I liked the most is that the filmmakers let those children forget about their reality for a little bit. Or perhaps not forget – they distanced from it. The children were showing their reality as if they were photographers coming from another country, another environment, so I’d say that was some kind of therapeutical activity for them. At the same time, this documentary was criticised for showing abusive parents and how irresponsible and careless prostitutes can be towards their own children. And it’s true that you may have this impression while watching, but on the other hand, I didn’t feel like the filmmakers where manipulating the images. Nothing is only black or only white, for sure there are different stories and different families, yet those children were undoubtedly deprived of a quality childhood. That is why I wouldn’t like to focus on finding the guilty ones, because this documentary is about children and we should pay our full attention to them. And I’m glad that such film was recognised, because more and more people should see it. And that’s also why I’m writing about it now.

My rating: 7/10
S.

The ball is round, a game lasts 90 minutes, everything else is pure theory. “Run Lola Run” (“Lola rennt”, 1998)

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directed by Tom Tykwer
© 1998 Prokino Filmverleih. All Rights Reserved.

I find this film a real discovery in my personal cinema world. Why? Because for the first 20 minutes of the film I was pretty sure I’d just stop watching soon, and yet I ended up thrilled and having my mind blown. I present you: “Run Lola Run”, a German film that’s very unusual and you need to give it a good chance. We get to know Lola (Franka Potente), whose boyfriend Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu) has got himself in trouble. He was supposed to deliver a bag with a lot of money to rather unpleasant people and… he’s lost it. Manni calls Franka telling her that if he doesn’t have this money in 20 minutes, he might get killed. The woman decides to help him and comes up with an idea to collect 100,000 marks (back then that was the currency in Germany). What happens during those 20 minutes is for you to see, but let me just shortly say that nothing goes as planned. Surprisingly, after those 20 minutes, we get back to the starting point and we have a chance to see Lola run for the money (literally) once again. This time, she makes certain changes, which lead to different events and circumstances. In the film you may see Lola running the same, yet not the same, way 3 times. It basically presents the butterfly effect and the whole film kind of resembles a video game – where you may always start over and try to play it differently. There’s a lot of symbolism and hidden meanings, which you may read yourselves. I’m sure that cinephiles will see a lot of references to other productions, but if you haven’t seen that many films – don’t worry – I bet you’ll see intriguing elements as well. All I can say is that you should be watching it carefully as every person, every object, every element of the story matters. Personally, I’m not really buying the style of the director and the aesthetic wasn’t my thing either, but the idea itself is on point. I’m glad that such production was made and I wish you to try it, yet deep inside I also hope for a decent remake, with maybe less aggressive editing? Or more serious narration? Not sure, but something wasn’t right to me there and that’s why I’m rating it a bit lower, yet I still believe it’s a film worth seeing. Something funny for the end – apparently, the actress Franka Potente couldn’t wash her red hair for 7 weeks of shooting as the hair dye wasn’t permanent and they wanted it to stay bright. Not sure whether it’s 100% true as I’ve found very different stories, but if that one is real, then… let’s say… impressive.

My rating: 6/10
S.

So I keep singing a song. “Elvis” (2022)

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directed by Baz Luhrmann
© 2022 Warner Bros. Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

I was scared of watching this film, to be honest. I remember how excited I was when “Bohemian Rhapsody” was screening, I ran to the cinema totally thrilled… and I left horribly frustrated. I have to admit that I’m a bigger fan of Queen than of Elvis, yet still I find him a true musical icon and I didn’t want anyone to disrespect him the same way they disrespected Freddie. Sorry, being totally honest. But as you can see, I’m recommending the film, so it couldn’t be that bad, right? Well, it wasn’t spectacular either, but first things first. I guess I don’t need to introduce you to Elvis Presley, about whom this film is all about. Although, not that ALL, because we go though Elvis’ career from the perspective of his manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). To be honest, I was curious about his role since Tom is rather seen as an actor who always plays nice characters. And I hope he gets back to those roles, because this one is not his best for sure. However, Austin Butler, who played Elvis, may get ready for a success and more offers from producers. I was amazed by this young man and his charisma shining from the screen. Not only he resembles Elvis, but he did his homework well and I feel like he understood his character. I’m not such a big listener of Elvis and I bet many may disagree with me, but I didn’t feel like Austin was parodying the musician – not at all. He showed the authenticity of Elvis and all his faces, which to me is a role worth recognising. Great job! A lot of critics point out that it’s not a classic biopic and I have to agree with that. From the very beginning you may feel confused by the narration and the way the story is going, quite rapid editing and lots of glam attacking you from everywhere. I didn’t like it at first, but the longer I was watching, the more I was getting used to it and found it a nice contrast to the character of Elvis, who was presented as a simple guy loving music, not a show business product. Still, if I’d had to choose the director, I wouldn’t have chosen Baz Luhrmann to this story, but that’s my personal opinion and I know that even the family of Elvis appreciated his work, so who am I to judge? However, I’d need someone, who could tell me the story of Elvis, filled with music and passion, and a bit less of the managing and political drama, if you know what I mean. But hey, the scenes with B.B. King (Kelvin Harrison) and jamming in the club were so good I wish I could be there myself. And I think there are several quality moments in this productions, so in the end I do recommend it. Especially since that could be the first big role of Austin Butler, who should totally be seen more. And also because Elvis songs are awesome and you may bounce a bit to cheer yourselves up.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I’m not sad, I’m naughty. “My Life to Live” (“Vivre sa vie: film en douze tableaux”, 1962)

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directed by Jean-Luc Godard
© 1962 Panthéon Distribution. All Rights Reserved.

Another day, another horrible loss. Jean-Luc Godard was a true icon in the world of cinema, not only in France but surely also in many more countries. He had his own, very unique style of filmmaking, which we’re lucky to be admiring even after his death. Today, in order to dedicate this post to him, I’d like to recommend you “My Life to Live”, one of his famous works. We get to know Nana (Anna Karina), a young and gorgeous Parisian, who doesn’t want to continue the life of a wife and mother, willing to become an actress instead. However, living on her own quickly leads Nana to financial problems, so she has to find a way to make more money. One day, she’s taken for a prostitute on the street and accepts the offer given by some random man. Slowly, Nana starts treating such “meetings” as her new job and way to provide for herself. I have no idea what caused that, but I was absolutely stunned watching this film. The idea seems pretty simple, yet the way it was presented… marvellous. From the very beginning we barely see faces of people, and when we do, they are shown with a certain purpose, giving us chills. Or me at least. The way the camera is sneaking behind people’s backs, as if it was some kind of nosy observer – thrilling and unusual. I personally adore such camera “play”, because I feel like it’s playing with us. The camera itself entertains us adding to the experience. Besides, Anna Karina is magnificent, full of elegance and authenticity, which makes the character of Nana even more fascinating. I’ve read so many things from this story that I’m not sure which to share with you. Perhaps none. Because I feel like Godard’s films shouldn’t be overly analysed – they should be seen and experienced. All I’d like to say is that this production makes you reflect on your life and maybe answer the universal question “what if…?”. What if I changed my job? What if I broke up with my partner? What if I went to see “The Passion of Joan of Arc” at the cinema? Well, perhaps “My Life to Live” will answer your questions. Thank you Jean-Luc Godard for being. Just being, that was already more than enough.

My rating: 8/10
S.

Giving your heart to somebody is the most perplexing thing. “Cha Cha Real Smooth” (2022)

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directed by Cooper Raiff
© 2022 Apple TV+. All Rights Reserved.

Today’s film is considered a comedy/drama, but I have to tell you that despite several funny moments, it has left me with an existential crisis. I swear. And I bet you wish to learn more about that so here we go: Andrew (Cooper Raiff) is a 22-year-old man still trying to figure out what to do with his life. One day he takes his younger brother David (Evan Assante) to a bat mitzvah (Jewish coming out of age ritual, often a big event for the child). During the party, Andrew meets Domino (Dakota Johnson) and her daughter Lola (Vanessa Burghardt), who’s sitting in the back not willing to join other children. The man finds out that she’s autistic and it’s difficult for her to take part in such activities. Andrew makes a bet with Domino that he’d take Lola dancing and wins it as he finds a way to encourage the girl. Since he’s a real party animal (if I may call him this way considering it’s a bat mitzvah), he doesn’t only make a great impression on Domino, but also on other parents, who offer him to be a party starter at their children’s events. Why not, right? It’s a job after all. In the meantime, Andrew and Domino get to spend more and more time together. The woman is fascinated by his relation with Lola, Andrew’s charisma and some inner warmth that apparently she’s lacking in her life. What happens next is for you to see, but I have to tell you that my sensitive soul ended up reflecting a lot after this film. It’s my personal opinion, but I feel like this story is horribly real. It shows how miserable our life is no matter how much we pretend it isn’t. I’m sorry for sounding so pessimistic right now, but that’s how I read the story. When we’re young, we feel like anything is possible, sky is the limit, carpe diem and all other lame sentences you may find tattooed on people’s body parts. But then, the older you’re getting, the more you realise that we’re all craving peace and safety. And we end up with wrong people, doing wrong jobs, spending our free time in a way we wouldn’t like to spend it, but if that gives us at least a pinch of peace, we’re holing on to it. That is why I find the character of Lola so perfect in this whole story as she, as an autistic girl, follows her own rules and doesn’t want to agree to something that’s not right for her. And that’s why Lola and Andrew get on so well with each other, while there’s a huge contrast between her and Domino, who’s already accepted the reality as it is. You have to forgive me such depressing post, but I’m just expressing my feelings about this film. I do believe it was missing something to amaze me (yet I’m not sure what exactly), but it’s definitely a film worth your time. It hits hard, but sometimes we need that, right?

My rating: 6.5/10
S.