Watch me now! “When Cows Fly” (“Az budou krávy lítat”, 2019)

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directed by Tereza Kopácová
© 2019 Ceská Televize. All Rights Reserved.

So far June seems like a month of breaking stereotypes. It’s a pride month after all, right? Today’s film is about a woman that should be very proud of herself indeed. Betka (Eva Hacurová) is a school teacher who is often mocked by her students for being chubby. The woman struggles with low self-esteem and doesn’t consider herself anyhow attractive. Until one day she accidentally signs up for burlesque dance classes. At first she’s sure that it’s not for her because all other dancers are way slimmer and, in Betka’s eyes, more attractive. Who would like to watch a woman like her if there are women like them? She especially dislikes her belly, which is often exposed in burlesque. Despite her difficulties, Betka doesn’t give up and wishes to prove everyone and herself that a woman with extra kilograms can be proud, sensual and incredibly sexy. I found this film accidentally searching for something to watch one evening and I have to admit it’s not a cinematographic masterpiece. However, the idea made me watch it with pleasure as I love breaking stereotypes. Just as I wrote in my previous post – let’s show more real life, shall we? Women come in all shapes and sizes and we love them all. Why should any of them feel like dancing on the stage in front of people wasn’t for her? As long as she can dance and enjoys doing it – take the stage, honey! The sad truth is that we still follow some insane social rules and judge people based on random things. Instead, let’s do whatever we want, adore our bodies, be proud of our differences and let all silly stereotypes fly away with those cows from the title, shall we? A very warm and adorable Czech production. Recommended!

My rating: 6/10
S.

On the couch. “Arab Blues” (“Un divan à Tunis”, 2019)

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directed by Manele Labidi Labbé
© 2019 Kazak Productions. All Rights Reserved.

Some time ago I saw this film and even though it has rather average ratings, I honestly recommend you to check it out. It tells the story of Selma (Golshifteh Farahani), a young woman originally from Tunisia who was living in Paris for 10 years. Now she decides to move back to Tunis and open her own psychotherapy practice there. Everyone around finds it a ridiculous idea, yet Selma is incredibly stubborn, even though she’s struggling with a lot of issues. One of them are cultural differences between people in France and people in Tunisia. Selma has got used to cooperating with the French and now she needs to adapt to the Tunisian reality. Here people have different problems, different ways of dealing with them and different approach to their mental health. All that seems like a huge challenge, but Selma wishes to try her best. She also struggles with herself as she’s still not sure what to do with her life. And I loved this film for that. I honestly appreciate such realism in cinematography. Just because someone is an adult who’s finished university and has a job doesn’t mean they are sure about their actions. I mean, do you know any? I don’t. We all have our doubts and fears and the more we show this in films, the more familiar it becomes and viewers won’t feel like they are absolute losers. Trying to help others is Selma’s way to find her purpose in life and help herself, which I found very interesting and perhaps it also made me think of my own actions. Besides, this story also shows how difficult it can be for a woman to do something on her own. I bet a man wouldn’t have had that many obstacles to worry about in her place, which gives us some food for thought. It’s a very intimate and calm production with a pinch of humour and a lot of space for self-reflection, in my opinion. That is why I think you shouldn’t miss it.

My rating: 6/10
S.

There is no gene for the human spirit. “Gattaca” (1997)

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directed by Andrew Niccol
© 1997 Sony Pictures Releasing. All Rights Reserved.

I’m a cinematographic masochist and I’m not ashamed to admit it. I watch films which feed my anxiety and yet I enjoy them very much. Today I’d like to feed your anxiety by recommending “Gattaca”, a sci-fi film from the 90s. And even though it was made 25 years ago, it still speaks to me, especially considering what’s happening to us nowadays. Basically, we get to see the world in the future where children are well-planned, if I can put it this way. What I mean is that in that world, a quality society cannot consist of people who were born without interfering into their genes. Why would we need those who have some serious illnesses or disfunction, or even look pretty average? Why not creating pure perfections? And that’s the world of “Gattaca”, where those whose genes were selected and verified are the only ones who can succeed in life. Anyone else is considered “in-valid” and their life options are limited. One of those people is Vincent (Ethan Hawke), who was conceived naturally and due to his genetic profile classifies as an In-Valid. Still, the man wishes to work in space travel, but there’s absolutely no chance for him to be accepted. That is why he makes an agreement with one Valid, Jerome (Jude Law), to use his identity. Jerome gives Vincent his hair, blood and urine samples in order to make everyone believe Vincent is him in any tests the man has to take. And as you may be guessing, something goes wrong, but that’s for you to see. Anyway, even though I’m terrified of this sick perfection we’re striving for as humanity, I loved the film and its messages. Perhaps one day we will be divided in to Valids and In-Valids, but aren’t we already dividing ourselves? We discriminate people based on their skin colour, their gender, their sexual preference, their nationality or anything else that’s not a choice. Just like Vincent, we are born with certain traits, genes or way of being and why should they stop us from succeeding in life? As long as we wish to achieve something, nobody should limit us anyhow. Not to finish with a deep thought only, here’s an interesting fact – the title is based on four letters (G, A, T and C), which represent the four nucleobases of DNA. Seems like even basic biology is needed in film critique.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I’m coming for all of them. “Bull” (2021)

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directed by Paul Andrew Williams
© 2021 Signature Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

I saw this film last year during one of my favourite film festivals and I can’t believe I haven’t written anything. I guess I need to organise myself better since I watch way too many good productions and then forget to recommend them further. Especially since it’s a British film and I don’t appreciate their style that often (forgive me, my British readers). You may read that today’s recommendation is a thriller, but I feel it’s much more than that. This one plays with your mind and leaves you incredibly insecure for the whole time. Please, try not relying on the short description you may find on the Internet. It says that the main character, Bull (Neil Maskell), is a contract killer and he’s trying to get revenge for separating him from his son many years ago. Is it tempting? Well, not really. And I wasn’t that excited to see it either, but since the film had decent rating and it was shown during that festival, I decided to give it a try. What’s more, for almost whole film I wasn’t sure why it’s that much appreciated, honestly speaking. I mean, it is a well-done thriller, indeed, but I didn’t expect it to surprise me and that’s a big minus in my eyes. Yet, it did surprise me. It’s one of those films that you have to watch till the end and then you realise that it was a real blooming flower – at first just fine, mind-blowing in the end. Personally, I’m a big fan of productions that trick me and I always appreciate them more for that part. “Bull” is definitely a tricky one, that may give you confusion and chills. If you’d like to enjoy constant anxiety, this film is for you.

My rating: 6.5/10
S.

Skating is not a crime. “Skater Girl” (2021)

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directed by Manjari Makijany
© 2021 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

I feel like it’s one of those films that may get lost on Netflix, so I’ve decided to write about it to make it easier for you to find it. You’re welcome. Today I’d like to recommend you an Indian-American drama, which perhaps isn’t much surprising, yet I’ve found it important to be shared. We get to know Prerna (Rachel Sanchita Gupta), a teenage girl living in a village in the northern India. She’s a very good daughter obeying her parents and following their traditions. However, one day she meets Jessica (Amrit Maghera), an Indian woman raised in the UK, who’s come to India in order to learn more about her family. While being here, Jessica and her friend Erick (Jonathan Readwin) introduce local children to skateboarding. At first Prerna isn’t sure about it, but seeing another woman being enthusiastic about the sport, she gives it a try. Unfortunately, a girl on a skateboard is not something that her family and village community might approve. Prerna does everything to live in accordance with her beloved ones, but also follow her new passion. You may already have an idea how this story will end and you’re most probably right, yet give this film a chance. It doesn’t only show how important it is for children to find their own path and try something different from what their parents have planned for them, but also how much women can influence other women. Jessica is cooperating with Erick, but it’s her who supports Prerna the most and thanks to her the girl believes in her choices. What excites me the most is the fact that the film crew built a huge skatepark in Khempur in order to shoot scenes there and in the end, the skatepark was left for locals to be used. Now, it’s the largest skatepark in India that attracts skateboarders from all over country. I find it wonderful as it wasn’t anything temporary and currently ordinary people may profit from it. And one more thing – I was amazed by Rachel Sanchita Gupta, the actress who played Prerna. I had chills watching her in the film and I trusted her character fully, which made me sympathise with Prerna even more. Hope you’ll find a moment to see this film even if you’re not interested in skateboarding, as the story is much more complex than just doing sports.

My rating: 6/10
S.

It’s like being paranoid without the fear. “Flatliners” (1990)

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directed by Joel Schumacher
© 1990 Columbia Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Recipe for today: young Kiefer Sutherland, Julia Roberts, William Baldwin, Oliver Platt and Kevin Bacon. Mix it all up with a bit of horror, add psychological drama and lots of questions about the after-life. Voilà, we’re getting “Flatliners”. But let’s make it clear, I’m talking about the one from 1990, because there’s also a follow-up made in 2017 with not the best ratings, as far as I know. Honestly speaking, I haven’t seen the newest one because I didn’t feel the need to see it. I know the story, it’s fine, but watching it again wouldn’t be the same. Or perhaps the 2017 version is somehow surprising and would leave me speechless – no idea. Maybe one day I’ll decide to catch up on that. In the meantime, I’d like to recommend you the film from 1990 as it’s one of those that perhaps isn’t a must-see, but because of the cast it’s totally worth it. The story is pretty simple – we get to know a bunch of medical students who wish to play gods. They want to experiment and find out what happens after death. Obviously, it’s not a fantasy production, so they cannot just ask some spirits or recently met aliens about it. They actually need to die and get back to life as fast as it’s possible. So as I said, playing gods. I must say that at the beginning I was quite curious and seeing their actions was fascinating. I barely know how paracetamol works, so bringing someone back to life goes beyond my imagination. However, later I was rather enjoying the acting more than the film itself. The idea was unusual and it should be appreciated, especially in the 90s, but perhaps I’ve been already spoilt by modern productions which play with our minds much harder. However, I do think that every film freak should dedicate an evening to this film as the cast is absolutely gold and seeing them so young and fresh and still unexperienced melts hearts, I swear. But, even though they were young, you could already see a lot of potential and great skills showing up, so take that one seriously. In case you’re wondering whether you’ll be able to go to the bathroom at night after watching – the answer is yes. The only consequence might be limited trust towards your doctors, but other than that, enjoy!

My rating: 7/10
S.

R’Amen! “I, Pastafari” (2019)

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directed by Michael Arthur
© 2019 Bread Bag Boot. All Rights Reserved.

We all believe in something. Some people believe in some god(s). Some others in themselves. And there are also those who believe in the Flying Spaghetti Monster. Differences make this world a more exciting place, right? Today I’d like to recommend you a documentary about Pastafari people, who belong to the church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. Before you think it’s just a joke or perhaps I’m recommending some fantasy production, let me make it clear – it’s a documentary about an actual religion. If you don’t believe me, feel free to ask uncle Google for help. Personally, I’m not a religious person, but if I was to choose one path, I bet that would be a tempting option. Especially since their most important figure is made of pasta (who doesn’t love pasta?!) and according to Pastafarians, if you go to heaven, there’s a beer volcano and a stripper factory waiting for you there. I mean… not bad? Anyway, let’s focus on the documentary. Even though you might be laughing or face-palming right now, this film is not only about some group of people who have decided to wear a strainer on their heads just to be different and get attention. It’s actually about inequality among people and how religions determine our value as humans. In this documentary, we try to get the definition of religion, which isn’t that obvious. Who decides which religion is an actual religion that should be respected and which one should be considered as a creation of delusional people? Why is Flying Spaghetti Monster anything/anyone less than any of the more common gods we know or have heard of? Why are Pastafarians being checked by psychiatrists yet we let millions of people just call themselves ‘religious’ and everything’s fine? Whatever you may think of Pastafarians, they are not just fighting for the right to have their own recognised religion and be wearing a strainer in their ID photo. They fight for respect and equality in treating all people, despite their beliefs, as long as their beliefs don’t hurt anyone. And if authorities cannot accept such unusual religion, perhaps we should stop glorifying them all? Highly recommended documentary with a lot of food for thought. And pasta.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Find your safety mask person. “I Want You Back” (2022)

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directed by Jason Orley
© 2022 Amazon Studios. All Rights Reserved.

I was supposed to recommend you this film on Sunday, but planning in 2022 is not going well for me. Still, Wednesday is also a decent day to watch a romcom and have a relaxing evening, right? Before you think that such film isn’t for you since all romcoms are the same, let me just say you’re sort of right, but perhaps this one will pleasantly surprise you. Not because it’s absolutely unexpected, but it’s not that much cringy and you may even appreciate some quality jokes. We get to know Emma and Peter (Jenny Slate & Charlie Day), who were recently dumped by their partners. Those two meet at a staircase sobbing and remembering their ex relationships and cursing their ex-partners’ new dates. Since they are in a similar situation, some kind of friendly bond gets created between them and they decide to cooperate. Emma will help Peter win his ex back and Peter will do the same for Emma. Peter will try to become Emma’s ex-boyfriend’s new friend and push him away from his new date reminding how awesome Emma was and Emma will try to flirt with Peter’s ex-girlfriend’s new partner and steal him from her so she gets back to Peter. Sounds like a typical Brazilian soap opera, doesn’t it? I know, but it’s actually easy to follow when you watch the film. And you probably already know how everything may end, but still, it’s pretty enjoyable. Maybe because it shows that no matter how much we wish to be in a relationship with someone, it’s always good to take a moment, reflect on your connection and perhaps realise that you’re not on the same page. Physical attraction or constantly received attention are not enough to build a healthy and long-term relationship, and that’s what this romcom is about if you look deeper. But if you’re not searching for any “life lesson”, then go ahead and just give it a try. I’m sure you’ll have a good laugh and perhaps it will encourage you to stop sobbing about your ex. Not worth it.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I kill you too. “The Trip” (“I onde dager”, 2021)

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directed by Tommy Wirkola
© 2021 74 Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

You know when two people have been together for some time and at some point they realise that the relationship is no longer that exciting and passionate as it was before. And then, some couples split, some others try to work on it and some others try to kill each other in a cabin in the woods. That’s life, isn’t it? Today’s film is about Lisa and Lars (Noomi Rapace & Aksel Hennie), a couple that have been married for some time and decided to finish their relationship in a rather drastic way. I mean, they actually go to a cabin in the woods to “reconnect”, yet both wish to kill the other. However, at the place they encounter something much more dangerous than their significant other trying to murder them. But no spoilers, obviously. Before watching, I had a feeling I might like this film as I’d seen one production by Tommy Wirkola and was very much satisfied with his work. Besides, one of the main roles is played by Noomi Rapace, who’s a fascinating actress that surprises me by her ability to change on the screen so naturally. That is why I prepared myself for a pleasant projection and I wasn’t let down. For sure you need to be in a specific mood as it’s a rather black comedy, full of inappropriate jokes and slightly irrational situations, but then it tells a decent story, keeps you entertained and perhaps shocks you with a non-standard ending. Of course I was screaming at the screen each time some character was doing something absolutely idiotic, but did I have fun? Yes. Did I laugh a lot? Yes. Was the film made well? Indeed. That is why I’m recommending it to you hoping that it’ll make your movie night. And perhaps spices up your marriage.

My rating: 6.5/10
S.

I want you to see me. “Real Women Have Curves” (2002)

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directed by Patricia Cardoso
© 2002 Newmarket Films. All Rights Reserved.

I recently found this film and read that it’s “one of the most influential ones of the 2000s” or that it finally shows what being a young woman in LA was like. If so, why didn’t I hear of it before? Perhaps it’s just me, but I feel like this production has been forgotten and not many may remember it exists. That is why I’m here to remind you or let you know that it’s a film worth your time. We get to know an 18-year-old named Ana (America Ferrera), who’s growing up in LA and as a typical teenager she’s got typical teenage struggles – school, family, boys and an absolute fear of the future. The girl wishes to continue studies at a good university, but the family has a difficult financial situation. Besides, her mother would like Ana to support their business, which is a little textile factory. When Ana starts helping at the factory, she realises how unfair the world is and how difficult it will be for her to go a different path. Even though I didn’t know about this film before, I have to agree it is an important one as it shares a lot of valuable messages. First, it breaks the stereotype as if every woman needed to get married, have children, be a perfect housewife and yadda yadda yadda. It’s 21st century, they don’t, period. Second, we get to reflect on the fact that lots of people are being used for our own pleasure or profit. We see how hard those women in the factory work in order to make dresses that cost more than their whole year’s salary. Insane? Indeed. And third, Ana is a curvy girl who’s struggling with accepting her own body and working in the factory where sizes are only small doesn’t help at all. She has to stand up to all the ridiculous expectations towards women and accept herself fully. I have to say that the scene in the factory when all the ladies start comparing their bodies and having a huge laugh out of it made my day. That’s what acceptance and female empowerment is about. Perhaps I would brush up the screenplay, but in the end I think you should see the film, especially if you’re a young woman trying to follow her own path. You go girl!

My rating: 6/10
S.