I still believe in paradise. “The Beach” (2000)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Danny Boyle
© 2000 20th Century Fox. All Rights Reserved.

When you hear “Leonardo DiCaprio”, what do you think of? “Titanic”? “The Wolf of Wall Street”? No Oscar for way too many years and then one for probably one of the least satisfying (for me) roles of his? Yeah, all that is right, but let me remind you of Leo in 2000. That year he played in a film titled “The Beach” and even though it doesn’t have such high ratings, I decided to give it a try and in the end write about it. Maybe Leo isn’t shining so bright in it (he even got a Golden Raspberry nomination for the Worst Actor), but the story itself is intriguing. Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young man enjoying his life in Bangkok. You know, a single American guy, searching for adventures, trying to experience different life etc. At the hotel where he’s staying he meets Daffy (Robert Carlyle), who tells him about a mysterious and uninhabited island where he used to be living. Next morning Richard finds Daffy dead, but before committing suicide, the man left a map. Richard decides to follow the instructions and find the island, because why not? When he finally reaches it, he finds out that the island isn’t inhabited at all. It’s actually a home to a very eccentric community who welcome Richard and introduce him to their reality and their rules, one of which is keeping the island a secret is beyond anything. Anything. You may find numerous reviews saying that this film is a waste of time, that it’s nothing good compared to the book it’s based on (same title by Alex Garland) and there’s nothing special to write about except cinematography. And here I am to defend it, but mind the fact that *SPOILERS* are coming, so first watch the film and then get back to this post. So, I do believe this film is worth your time as it shows the problem of inability to adapt to reality, at least that’s how I read it. The community have their own rules, they are away from things they disliked in their previous lives and they want to stay in a small and intimate group in order not to destroy it. That is why the character I’d reflect the most on isn’t Richard, but Sal (Tilda Swinton). She was going to do literally anything to protect her own reality as she was scared of being out there, following social rules and being pressured by others. Perhaps for Richard it was a pleasant break from his everyday life and he was able to return, but what about people who cannot deal with it like Sal or… Daffy. Yes, the one who committed suicide. To me, this film has a slightly wasted potential, yet it touches me somehow, reminding of all the people who feel unsafe, anxious and simply not home where they are. Here comes another questions – is there anyone who doesn’t feel so? But that’s a topic for an evening with cold drinks in our hands and several free hours. Still, I’m glad I’ve seen this film and gave my brain a small training.

My rating: 6/10
S.

It has no nobility. “Misery” (1990)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Rob Reiner
© 1990 Columbia Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

We’ve recently lost James Caan, a wonderful actor that shall be remembered for a long time. That is why I’d like to recommend you a film which may remind you of his skills and charm, and which is also one of my beloved thrillers ever made. It’s actually a story based on the book by Stephen King titled just like the film – “Misery”. I can still recall reading it when I was yet a child and it was actually my first book by King, so imagine the intensity of that experience. Right after finishing the book, I watched this adaptation and even though there are differences between them in the plot, I loved both. But for those who haven’t heard of it, let me introduce you to the story: we get to meet Paul Sheldon (James Caan), a famous novelist who’s gained a lot of fans thanks to his series about Misery, a woman living in the Victorian era. However, the man is already tired of writing the romance, therefore he decides to kill the well-known character in his newest book and focus on different genres. Unfortunately, while driving he gets into an accident and is saved by Annie (Kathy Bates), a nurse from a small town. And I’m not sure which part of the previous sentence was worse for Paul. As he wakes up at Annie’s home, he finds out that the woman is his huge fan and it’s true honour for her to be taking care of the novelist. Paul is feeling incredibly lucky as Annie helps him in the recovery until… she reads his newest book. Yes, the one where Paul kills Misery. And the hell begins… Not going to say more because I think everyone should either read the book or watch the film, or both. The story seems simple, yet King knows how to describe even small actions to make you feel extremely uncomfortable. Plus, Caan and Bates were the perfect choice for these two roles and they really cooperated well on the screen. You don’t only see their huge talent, but also hypnotising chemistry between them. Especially considering the fact that one of the characters is an insane murderer, but anything is possible in the world of cinema, right? Also, I love the camerawork in this production as it really builds up the tension and most modern filmmakers can’t do the same nowadays. Notice how individual shots make you perceive the whole situation more intensively. At least that’s for me. Anyway, you should definitely take a moment to see this production even if you’re worried that it might be too scary. Personally, I think the book is much more hardcore and the film adaptation is still kept as a thriller. By the way, Kathy Bates was awarded an Oscar for this role, so it’s a must-see, in my opinion, but I believe James Caan wasn’t out of the spotlight that much. That is why I think it’s a perfect film to remember him. Thank you for your charm.

My rating: 9/10
S.

Now go and don’t look back. “Spirited Away” (2001)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Hayao Miyazaki
© 2001 Toho. All Rights Reserved.

It took me 21 years to make myself watch this film. 21 years. I know, some of you aren’t even that old so it must sound really abstract to you. But recently a lot of people have been reminding me of this production and I finally gave up on waiting for the right moment – I took it for a sign to see it. And trust me, I wasn’t anyhow excited about it even though this film is an absolute legend. Why? Its ratings are very high, it’s considered one of the best animations ever made by numerous critics and, so far, it’s the only non-English-language hand-drawn animation that has won an Oscar. Impressive, right? So how come wasn’t I excited to see it? Well, I have to admit that I’m not a fan of anime and Japanese style of making films, especially animations. And I didn’t want to force myself to anything, even if lots of people find it a masterpiece. But I’ve watched it and I don’t regret that. It’s indeed an adorable story of a 10-year-old girl named Chihiro (Rumi Hiiragi), who’s moving with her parents to a new place. On the way, they stop the car and explore some mysterious tunnel, at the end of which they find some abandoned amusement park. The girl doesn’t feel comfortable there, yet her parents insist on exploring. Later, the girl meets Haku (Miyu Irino), a boy who tells her to escape the place before the sunset, but it’s too late already. Chihiro finds her parents turned into two pigs by Yubaba (Mari Natsuki), the witch ruling in this world. In order to get back to her previous life and save parents, Chihiro has to start working for the witch and adapt to the new reality, at least for now. I have to admit that despite huge admiration film critics share about this animation, I still didn’t like the style that much. But I believe it’s my personal preference and I’m definitely not discouraging you from experiencing it yourselves. However, the story was quite fascinating and I enjoyed following little Chihiro, hoping she’d save her parents and manage with all the struggles. Plus, this film is significant for its numerous themes and I guess there are more interpretations than people who’ve seen it, many of which are very much convincing. I especially liked the one which says that the whole film is showing how a child experiences changes in life. Her parents get a new job, focus on it so much that they practically disappear, so the child has to manage on their own, find new friends, learn who’s right or wrong, sometimes do thing they aren’t used to doing. And I have to say that I appreciate this film for giving us so many options how to read the story. I’d definitely choose it for a film club meeting, because I bet the conversation after would be extremely interesting (and extremely long). So if you’re like me – you’re not such a big fan of anime, I hope you’ve just got encouraged to give this one a try. Plus, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the music because it is pleasant and stays with you for a long time.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Normal must be boring. “Eternal Beauty” (2019)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Craig Roberts
© 2019 Bulldog Film Distribution. All Rights Reserved.

Today I’ve got a real gem for you, which doesn’t get enough attention, in my opinion. It’s not this type of film which thousands of people might want to see on a big screen with overly salty popcorn in their hands, but I do believe that my readers are not into entertaining productions only. Even though it is considered a comedy, a dark comedy, I wasn’t laughing at all. The only moment I smiled was at the end because I loved the last line. Other than that, I was rather concerned, confused and amazed by Sally Hawkins acting skills. But let me explain what the film is about: we get to know Jane (Sally Hawkins, young Jane – Morfydd Clark), who’s an adult woman suffering from schizophrenia. We soon find out that when she was younger, she was left at the altar and had her heart broken by the love of her life. Currently, she’s struggling with everyday activities and trying her best to adapt to social norms, yet it’s horribly difficult with her disorder. Schizophrenia makes her feel constantly lost as she doesn’t know what’s real and what’s not anymore. Nobody knows how to support Jane until one day the woman meets Mike (David Thewlis), who’s also a man with certain difficulties in life. Again, this is another film showing that those in troubles, those with numerous problems might find support only among others who don’t have it easy. On the one hand you, as a viewer, will feel thrilled that there’s finally someone who gets Jane, or at least tries to understand her and be there for her, but on the other hand it’s terrifying that she’s all alone with her problems and is expected to deal with them on her own. Because that’s what adults should do, right? Deal with everything on their own. They are adults after all. I do hope you can smell my sarcasm reading this. I just hate when we force people to pretend like everything’s fine and we condemn them for being weak. Maybe the reason why people with such difficulties do not bond with “the normal” is because others like them are the only ones who treat them fair. No contempt, no pity – just a human relation. As you can see, this film has given me a lot of food for thought and I’m happy to be sharing it right now. You should definitely find a moment for this story and see marvellous Sally Hawkins, who should be in the spotlight more often!

My rating: 7/10
S.

How many fingers do you see? “Patch Adams” (1998)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Tom Shadyac
© 1998 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Are you having a difficult day? Do you feel like you’re done with everything? Then let me propose a wonderful film for such a blue day. And if you’re actually in a good mood, then why not making it even better? Today I’d like to recommend you a biographical production about one of the most wonderful people that have been born on this planet. Or maybe not even on this planet because considering what this man has done and how extraordinary his actions have been, that must be some out of space energy. Hunter Adams (Robin Williams) has been struggling with suicidal thoughts therefore he decides to stay in a mental institution. There, the man meets several people who need a lot of help that they are not receiving from the specialists, so he starts treating them in some way. At some point he realises that he enjoys supporting other patients in their everyday life, so he leaves the institution to… study medicine. Apparently, that’s the new life purpose Hunter finds and wishes to pursue. Or I should rather say Patch, because that’s the nickname he’s given at the institution and continues to use it. During the studies, which are going very well for him, the man notices that doctors don’t pay enough attention to patients and rather treat them as cases instead of human beings. Quite against all possible rules, Patch starts practising a new method of treating patients, which is combining his knowledge and skills gained at university with laughter therapy, because he believes that people get better much faster if they’re in a good mood. Obviously, a lot of serious doctors disapprove of his actions, but that’s something you will see watching the film. However, this is one of those stories that are incredibly important to me as Patch is a man that should be a real example to all of us. Because not only doctors should be more human, we all should. No matter what we do, we may often treat other people like cases, numbers, yet there are humans just like us on the other side. I know that some critics have found this film too obvious or fictionally dramatic, but I feel like that’s the charm of cinema, especially from the 90s. Still, I love this production and I love Williams in the role of Patch, which makes it even more emotional to watch considering what happened to the actor in real life. And I find it beautiful that there are such people like Patch who, despite difficulties in their life, decide to focus their energy on helping others. True inspiration, so make sure to get inspired as well.

My rating: 8/10
S.

We’re in love with the wrong people. “Westermarck Effect” (2022)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Saara Lamberg
© 2022 Innuendo Movie. All Rights Reserved.

Have you ever heard of the Westermarck effect? It’s a hypothesis which says that people who have been living together as children rather don’t feel any sexual attraction towards each other. Which may explain why we don’t feel attracted to our siblings even though technically… we could. Still, humans have developed some kind of sexual aversion to people with whom we’re growing up and perhaps it’s because that naturally stops inbreeding, which, as you probably know, may have serious genetic consequences. Why am I writing about it? Because one director, Saara Lamberg, decided to put a spotlight on this topic and create a quite unusual story. We get to know Sally (played by the director herself) who was raped as a teenager and gave birth to an unwanted child. Or at least a child she wasn’t prepared to raise back then. The little boy was given to adoption and 20 years later Sally wishes to find him. When they meet, Sam (Jayden Denke) doesn’t know who the woman is and starts flirting with her as there’s some mysterious chemistry between them. When Sally finally reveals the truth not to make the situation even more awkward, Sam doesn’t seem to be bothered by their biological connection. What’s more, they both feel like continuing their extraordinary relation despite knowing it’s considered wrong on numerous levels. I have to say I was shocked by the choice of the topic in this production, but at the same time I was incredibly curious how the story evolves. I don’t say it often, but in this case I felt the film was too short, because I didn’t have time to peacefully process what’s going on. On the other hand, perhaps that was the idea, to make us feel slightly lost with out thoughts. Still, I’d definitely appreciate more time to get into the world of Sally and Sam. However, the topic itself seems to be quite original and very controversial, yet presented in a way that gives you a lot of food for thought. Because personally, I don’t feel like the film has told me whether their relationship was right or wrong – it’s something that I, as a viewer, needed to decide on my own. And I haven’t, to be honest. Thank you so much Saara for letting me experience your work – it was different, fresh and unconventional.

My rating: 6.5/10
S.

No person is better than any other. “Trees of Peace” (2021)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Alanna Brown
© 2021 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

Do you know what happened in 1994? I’m sure that depending on the country you’re from 1994 reminds you of something different. Some of you were already born back then, some others remember this year from your family stories or history lessons at school. However, there’s one thing you should definitely associate with 1994 no matter where you’re from. Between the 7th of April and 15th of July, hundreds thousands people were murdered in Rwanda. That tragedy is known as the Rwandan genocide, during which one ethnical group, Hutus, were murdering the members of another ethnical group, Tutsi. I’m not a history teacher, so if you’d like to know more, I recommend you to search for more details as it is a terrifying yet significant part of the world history. However, the reason why I’m mentioning it is because today’s film is actually set during that genocide. Four women coming from very different backgrounds are hiding in a basement. The basement belongs to one of them, Annick (Eliane Umuhire), a pregnant Hutu woman who is against the actions taken by the men of her group. Since she’s against them, she’s also in danger of being murdered. Then we have Mutesi (Bola Koleosho), who is a Tutsi woman, Jeanette (Charmaine Bingwa), who is a nun, and Peyton (Ella Cannon), who is a white volunteer that was on a mission in Rwanda. Each of them has a different story, different beliefs, different way of dealing with the situation. Yet, they are all trapped in one basement and need to support each other no matter what. It’s an absolutely beautiful story about sisterhood and the power of women. As they say, a woman will always understand another woman. And it seems like this story proves it. What’s more, the whole film takes place only in the basement, yet you may feel numerous emotions that I cannot even name. I’d also like to appreciate Michael Rizzi for his cinematography skills – I was truly amazed. Watch carefully and try not only to focus on the story, but also on how it’s all made. All four actresses did such a wonderful job and together with an excellent camerawork it created a true experience, not just a production. Personally, I still see the scene where Annick’s husband (who’s in the house, above the basement) is in danger of being killed by other Hutu men and all four women are tightly hugging Annick, horribly scared yet supportive. I had chills. Strong chills. And I hope you will too. And you will remember what happened in 1994.

My rating: 8/10
S.

You cannot give up. “Navalny” (2022)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Daniel Roher
© 2022 Warner Bros. Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

I do my best not to mention any political issues here as I really hope to write about cinema in a more pleasant or educative way. However, I’ve recently seen this documentary and it’s difficult for me not to share about it as it’s really worth your time. But before you decide to continue reading this post, let me warn you that it’s a controversial topic and if you’re a sensitive person who’s very much concerned about the political situation in Europe, especially nowadays, then skip this production for now. This documentary focuses on one person – Alexei Navalny – who’s a Russian opposition leader. The reason why they decided to make this film is not only because they wanted to present who the man is and what he does, but mostly because he was almost assassinated. In 2020 he was flying from Tomsk to Moscow and the plane had an emergency landing since Navalny’s life was in danger. At first nobody knew what’s going on and even his own family wasn’t allowed to learn more about his condition. After Navalny was finally transported to one German hospital, the tests proved that the politician had been poisoned. I’m not a specialist when it comes to poisons (as you might imagine), but the poison that was used back then was Novichok, which is apparently an incredibly deadly chemical weapon and it often makes the victim’s death look like it was of natural causes. Daniel Roher, the director of the film, said that it’s “the story of one man and his struggle with an authoritarian regime”. As I mentioned, I really don’t like talking about politics as it’s something that cinema should distract us from. I’ve always believed that the main purpose of films is to entertain us and make us forget about the reality. However, I also believe that education through films is one of the most universal ones and we should use them to share knowledge. And sometimes what we learn might be terrifying and heart-breaking, but we need to learn to deal with it. The world is a wonderful place, just people make it horrible. However, as Navalny speaks to Russians – “you cannot give up”. So let’s try not to give up. And forgive me for sharing so much about the documentary, but trust me, there’s much more to see and hear, so watch it when you can. And when you feel ready.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Howard Hawks
© 1953 20th Century Fox. All Rights Reserved.

If you don’t see Marilyn Monroe in that pink dress surrounded by way too many men when you hear “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”, then welcome to the world of cinema and culture. Take a seat and enjoy this lesson. Today I’d like to remind you all or encourage you see an absolute classic, which made Marilyn even more recognisable than before. However, which may surprise you, I appreciate this film because of something, or I should rather say someone else. First things first, the plot: Lorelai (Marilyn Monroe) and Dorothy (Jane Russell) are best friends, even though they are totally different. Especially when it comes to their preference in men. The first one loves when the man has a full wallet and can spoil her with lots of expensive gifts, while the second one cares about the look and it’s not important how rich the man is. Both women are showgirls and, oh well, men really appreciate their company. Even though Lorelai has a fiancé, it’s difficult for her not to flirt with others, especially if they can afford diamonds. And diamonds are… you know. Dorothy isn’t such an angel either, as she always finds herself good-looking companions. Both ladies are having fun and enjoying life, yet they also need to learn what life is all about and that love is not always behind a pretty face and big denomination notes. And as much as this film is famous for Marilyn in the pink dress, I’m a huge fan of Jane Russell here. Not only because she’s a very good actress, but her character was just on point. Perhaps it’s because I honestly cannot stand Lorelai and the more sarcastic and annoyed Dorothy was, the more I was feeling her. And maybe it’s true that (gentle)men prefer blondes, but we all love ironic and slightly rude brunettes, don’t we? Anyway, it’s definitely an adorable comedy with wonderful songs, pleasant atmosphere and great acting straight from the 50s. A lot of artists have got their inspiration from this production, so it would be a shame not to know it yourself. I even found out that there’s a porn star who’s using Marilyn’s character’s name. So… as you can see, you never know when cinema education might be in use for you.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I am also a human being. “Yomeddine” (2018)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Abu Bakr Shawky
© 2018 Desert Highway Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Today I’m taking you to Egypt to experience an incredibly moving journey. The film I’m recommending to you could be described as brutally human. Why? Let me explain. We get to know Beshay (Rady Gamal), a man living in a leper colony. He’s been cured, but his body parts have stayed deformed, so has his face full of pustules. That is why the man needs to remain in the colony, trying to earn money on finding anything to sell at a rubbish dump. One day, the man loses his wife and that’s the moment he decides to change his reality. He packs his bags and leaves to the world of “the healthy”, where he may find his father. Unwillingly at first, Beshay takes an orphan from his colony with him. The boy is called Obama (Ahmed Abdelhafiz) and he’s also hoping for a better life somewhere there. And the reason why I said this film is brutally human is because it shows the worst of us. It shows how judgmental we can be and how easily we reject others based on ridiculous things. No matter what Beshay does or says, he’s never treated like an ordinary person. Or barely even any person. I don’t want to spoil too much, but there is a moment in the film where it is said at loud – it’s easier for rejected people to stay with other rejected ones and never try to adapt or get accepted by “the normal”. Isn’t it horrible? We talk so much about inclusion, about equality, but let’s face it – we don’t practice that as humans. I’m glad it’s slowly changing and we’re opening our eyes, but we still have a long way to go. Anyway, the film is very calm and real, which I personally appreciated. Especially since Rady Gamal is not only acting here, he’s basically showing us a part of his reality as he does live in a leper colony. I’m amazed by such people and they power to fight – because their everyday is a battle with the world. And this film is leaving me with a lot of gratitude for what I have and how privileged I am. Which still isn’t fair.

My rating: 7/10
S.