Tag: cinema

I am the reaper of death. Now say my name! “The Alabama Solution” (2025)

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directed by Andrew Jarecki & Charlotte Kaufman
© 2025 HBO. All Rights Reserved.

Is it okay to murder the murderer? Well… I won’t answer this question, but I invite you to another philosophy lesson on this blog, and all that because of “The Alabama Solution”. It’s a documentary that may really play with your mind and values. In 2019, the filmmakers, Andrew and Charlotte, visited one state prison to record some religious event taking place. As they were there, several prisoners approached them in secret to share that they’re being abused on a daily basis. Imagine, a person who committed a crime (even a murder) asks you for help because they’re in danger. What do you do? Andrew and Charlotte decide to investigate and, with the participation of the prisoners, they create this documentary to show the reality behind bars. What you will see is drastic and heart-breaking, but at the same time incredibly confusing. I believe no person should be allowed to torture or kill another one, without exceptions. However, it was difficult for me to sympathise with the prisoners, because they weren’t there without a reason. Once again, they should be punished for their crimes, but additional harming is definitely an example of power abuse. Unfortunately, I do imagine why people might ignore this problem – in the end, they would care about the criminals who had perhaps hurt their beloved ones. It is an extremely difficult topic and the documentary made me reflect on it for a long time. I wish it was a series, so we could dig deeper and try to create several answers to those complex questions. The film left me curious, but not fully informed, at least not as much as I’d like. Technically, it’s an average documentary, but the idea for it makes it outstanding. If you’re ready for such philosophical experience, I highly recommend it.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Sometimes you can just smell a horrendously shitty day on the way, can’t you? “The Paper” (1994)

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directed by Ron Howard
© 1994 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Today, I’m taking you to a newspaper office, where you’re going to have a short internship. We’re following Henry (Michael Keaton), the editor of The New York Sun, a tabloid paper. Working there means you need to drink a lot of coffee, stay glued to the phone (and back then they weren’t using cellphones, so imagine the struggle), walk and talk super fast, and also ignore the fact that you get paid a lame amount of money for all this effort. However, Henry seems to like his job very much, but he also wishes to move his career forward and try working in a slightly more prestigious office. We’re watching one day of his workday, during which he has to make a difficult decision. Two bodies of white businessmen have been found. According to the police, two African-American teenagers are the responsible ones for this crime. In Henry’s opinion, it’s just an unfounded arrest, and when he gets the information that proves the boys’ innocense, the newspaper office has to choose between bad and worse. They may either publish the next-day paper sharing the police’s statement, or they may actually inform the public that the teenagers aren’t guilty. The first choice is wrong from the moral point of view, but the second one might have serious consequences on the whole team. Except a thrilling case, we also get a picture of a typical workday at an editorial office, which looks interesting for an ordinary viewer. There are also numerous jokes typical for this profession and those times, so the film can be highly enjoyable for many people. And if you’re planning to study journalism, maybe it’s the best thing to see before choosing your path. You’re welcome.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Who’s fighting? I’m racing. “F1” (2025)

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directed by Joseph Kosinski
© 2025 Warner Bros. Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

It took me a lot of time to sit down and watch this film. I couldn’t force myself to see it in the cinema… I mean, it’s a film about car racing… No offence, but I see absolutely nothing tempting about this activity. However, since so many people recommend it and it’s nominated to Oscars, I just had to make myself a big mug of coffee and watch it. And unfortunately, I still see no point in driving around the circle, but I do think this film looks entertaining and from the technical point of view – it is spectacular. So I’m taking you for a ride in F1! Put on the helmet, fasten the seatbelt and check your insurance. At the beginning we get to know Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), who used to be a very successful F1 driver in the 90s, but a horrible accident forced him to finish his career. One day, he’s offered to become a mentor for another driver and help him in winning the upcoming races. I mean, the story is as simple as tying sandals, so if you already have an idea how things will go – you’re probably right. And everything here is correct – the screenplay, the plot twists, the acting etc. So it is a complete production. Is it outstanding as a story? Not at all. But the work put into creating this film is enormous. The thing that fascinates me the most is how they managed to shoot the action from the inside of the car, where, as you know, there’s very little space. I guess it’s good that Apple produced “F1” because they were using iPhones in such scenes. Perhaps promoting the usage of their phones as professional video cameras was even the main point of making the film – who knows, just my hypothesis. So, to sum up – it’s a fun action/drama to watch if you appreciate great visual effects and you like cars. Then, you’ll have the time of your life. And even though I still don’t feel the enthusiasm about Formula 1, I try to be objective and point out the good sides. For sure I understand the nomination for the best editing, sound and visual effects, but the best picture… well, that’s questionable. Still, I cannot say it’s a bad production and I believe it truly deserves a recommendation. But risking your life for driving in a circle is something I’ll never support and this story hasn’t changed my mind.

My rating: 7/10
S.

How to make you cry in 13 minutes? “Forevergreen” (2025)

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directed by Nathan Engelhardt & Jeremy Spears
© 2025 Nathan Engelhardt & Jeremy Spears. All Rights Reserved.

Who would have thought that I would feel like crying while watching a short animation about a bear and a tree… Since it’s a short film, my post will be rather short as well, so I don’t spoil too much. It’s one of the animations nominated to Oscars and my personal favourite this year. It tells the story of a little orphaned bear that finds a friend in a big tree. They create a lovely bond and become a quite unusual family, I could say. However, one day the little bear is tempted by something strange in the forest that doesn’t belong there. The tree tries to stop the bear from following the unwelcome thing, but sometimes curiosity wins no matter what… I’m so impressed that the film crew managed to tell such a meaningful story in only 13 minutes. On the one hand, they presented the importance of keeping nature safe and not destroying its ecosystem by our silly human actions. On the other hand, it’s also a story about making mistakes, which are sometimes inevitable, and learning lessons that lead to positive changes in the future. Except the messages coming out of this film, I have to appreciate the beautiful and unique animation style. It took the film crew over 5 years to make it, which sounds incredibly impressive. Let me say – this production was worth all this time. It’s my winner this year for sure.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Life is more precious than dignity. “The Children Act” (2017)

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directed by Richard Eyre
© 2017 A24. All Rights Reserved.

Staying in the topic of protecting children, I’d like to recommend you a drama that is based on a real story. It’s again about not being able to help, despite the great will, just this time it’s from a different perspective. We get to know Fiona Maye (Emma Thompson), a judge specialising in familly matters. One day, she’s given a case of a 17-year-old who suffers from leukaemia and the doctors have to perform a blood transfusion. The procedure wouldn’t be in question unless the boy was from a family of Jehovah’s Witnesses. According to their rules, blood transfusions are forbidden, no matter what. Don’t ask me, ask the cult. Anyway, even though Adam’s (Fionn Whitehead) life is in danger, his parents are loyal to their religion. Since the boy has been growing up in the community of Witnesses, he also thinks it’s right to refuse the procedure. However, in such case the hospital must seek permission from the court in order to save a minor. Fiona meets Adam and sees the teenager is willing to respect his religion, but the judge has to follow the law. And the law says: save the child. After the procedure, Adam has to accept a slightly new reality – he is living “against” his god’s will. Fiona might actually be the person who shows the boy that it was the right thing to do. Will she manage? That’s for you to see. Generally, it’s a film where two different people with different life values meet and try to understand each other. Also, the story reminds us that sometimes our good intentions might not be perceived the same way by someone else. So the question is: if you really believe in doing something to protect another person, should you do it against their will? The case presented in the film is serious, but we tend to “help” others on a daily basis. But do we really help them, or we believe we help them? If you enjoy such philosophical reflections, this drama will give you a lot of food for thought. Also, Emma and Fionn give a wonderful acting performance full of various emotions.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Please, come. “The Voice of Hind Rajab” (2025)

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directed by Kaouther Ben Hania
© 2025 The Party Film Sales. All Rights Reserved.

I really wish I didn’t have to see this film, but at the same time, I’m incredibly thankful to the film crew for making it. And if only everyone in the world saw it… maybe things would be different? I don’t know… but I know it’s an absolute must-see, whoever you are. Please, don’t watch any trailers – just go and watch this docudrama, because lack of knowledge will actually intensify the experience. I hadn’t heard of this case before seeing the film and I felt like one of the characters – wondering what happens next. We’re taken to 2024, January the 29th, and observe the work of the Palestinian Red Crescent. At some point, Omar (Motaz Malhees), answers probably the most terrifying call one can imagine. It’s a 6-year-old girl from Gaza, trapped in a car full of murdered family members, and she’s asking for help. What would you do if you got such call? Because I would pass out from stress. Luckily, Omar has the support of a more experienced colleague, Rana (Saja Kilani), who continues the conversation with the girl, but even she struggles with emotions. In the end, there’s an innocent child over there and all you can do is sit at your desk and hope for a miracle. And if you think the idea for this film is already heavy enough, better fasten your seatbelts. It is a fictional production, but it’s based on a real story and, what’s the most traumatising for me, you can hear the real recordings of the girl and volunteers from that day. They are mixed with the actors lines, but the fact that you can hear real people who went through this nightmare… it’s unbelievable. I was speechless. Because it’s not just a story that is supposed to manipulate our emotions – not at all. It happens right next to us. Children are left alone, scared, in danger, without their families. All that because some assholes want more money and power. This is the voice of Hind Rajab and I hope everyone will stop to listen to it. It’s one of the most devastating films I’ve ever seen.

My rating: 8/10
S.

They really lived. “Secondhand Lions” (2003)

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directed by Tim McCanlies
© 2003 New Line Cinema. All Rights Reserved.

Another legendary actor has left us here… Robert Duvall, known for his spectacular roles in top films, has definitely made a significant impact on cinema. However, today I won’t recommend any of the most common productions he starred in, and instead, I’m taking you to a farm in Texas. It’s 1962 and a teenager named Walter (Haley Joel Osment) is sent to live with his eccentric uncles, Hub and Garth (Robert Duvall & Michael Caine). The men are said to have a big fortune, but they are living a rather simple life. Their favourite activity is sitting on the porch and shooting at salesmen. I mean, I feel them. I’d add religious cult followers and postmen with bills… Anyway, the uncles aren’t really thrilled to welcome Walter, but soon, the boy shows them that he might be quite useful here. They begin to bond and the men tell him the stories of their travelling adventures. They sound ridiculous and hard to believe in, but at the same time it’s a quite entertaining activity. Generally, it’s an adorable and quite absurd comedy that might cheer your whole family up. I actually never heard of it before, but I decided to see it now and I’m sure I’d have loved it as a child as well. I guess I don’t need to mention that the acting here is of the best quality – in the end, we get three very talented gentlemen. But what I enjoyed the most was the message coming out of this story. Or actually, two messages. One – live your life to the fullest and say “yes” to whatever shows up on your way. Two – don’t stop living to the fullest even when you’re older. I often joke that I’m too old for doing something (and I’m not really old), but in fact – I wish to stay active and spontaneous until my last day on this planet. And I hope you will finish this film with a similar reflection. Thank you Mr Duvall for your work, rest in peace.

My rating: 7/10
S.

I’m afraid of dying lonely. “My Favourite Cake” (“Keyke mahboobe man”, 2024)

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directed by Maryam Moghaddam & Behtash Sanaeeha
© 2024 Totem Films. All Rights Reserved.

Is regime a good environment for artistic creativity? Well, that’s a controversial topic, but this film supports the statement. Difficult circumstances often lead to the need for expressing our disagreement and wish for change. Obviously, if I could choose myself, I wouldn’t like anyone to live in fear just for the sake of potential art pieces being made. However, today’s recommendation is an important say on the Iranian women’s rights problem. Now you know where I’m taking you – and to be exact, it’s Tehran. There, we meet Mahin (Lily Farhadpour), a 70-year-old widow, who’s been living alone for about 30 years. In Iran, women are allowed to get married again, but it’s not socially acceptable, so most widows decide to stay single till the end of their lives. Still, despite the reality in the country, Mahin craves company and intimacy. Therefore, she makes a brave move and invites Faramarz (Esmail Mehrabi), a taxi driver, to spend the evening at her house. That’s just the beginning of an unusual experience for both of them. To be honest, the ending really shocked me, so if you have any guesses what kind of story that is, you may also get confused. At first, I was irritated by the plot twist, but then I realised that it makes the film even more meaningful. Generally, I’m a fan of putting the spotlight on characters that are often forgotten in our everyday life, and I feel like an elderly widow is a perfect example. Especially, the one living in a country where all women are kind of invisible and ignored. This story reminds us that no matter what the political situation looks like, being an obedient citizen doesn’t mean they accept their reality. We’re all in need of affection and I bet most of us are scared of loneliness, so why would we force someone to suffer. Is it really such a crime if a woman finds a new companion in life? Does she hurt anyone by dancing and singing? Is it illegal to feel happy? Apparently, it is. And all this insanity you can experience while watching today’s film. I wish you a deep reflection. Keep in mind that the filmmakers faced legal problems and were even banned from travelling. Decide yourself whether that was really necessary to hold them accountable.

My rating: 7/10
S.

That was her safe place. “All the Empty Rooms” (2025)

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directed by Joshua Seftel
© 2025 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

Such documentaries are needed and it’s needed to talk about them. This year, one of the Oscars nominee is “All the Empty Rooms” – a short documentary that reminds us about what’s left after the tragedy. Steve Hartman, a journalist, and Lou Bopp, a photographer, decide to make a common project together – they visit empty rooms. But not just any empty rooms – they belonged to the children and teenagers who were killed during school shooting. The problem of such events is very big in the USA and we often hear the horrible news about yet another tragedy involving youth. When a school shooting takes place, the world stops for a moment to think about the victims. Then, life goes on. Unfortunately, for many families it’s impossible to deal with the loss and they decide to leave the victims bedrooms untouched. As if the child left it in the morning and was about to come back. Some of them don’t even wash the clothes or bedsheet not to forget the smell of their beloved one. Steve and Lou make sure to approach each family with respect and they wish to pay tribute to their late child. With each room you feel even more overwhelmed by the intensity of emotions, especially since you see all those toys and colourful decorations indicating how young its owner was. To me, it was difficult to watch, but sometimes I need such films. The idea to describe a person by the photos of their room is creative and it’s inspiring how this project may influence the victims’ families. Because even though they had to remind themselves of the tragedy, you can see gratidute in their eyes. That someone else remembers about their child. Make sure to put your phone away and focus on this short, but important documentary. Wishing them a win!

My rating: 8/10
S.

Good memories let you live forever. “Goodbye June” (2025)

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directed by Kate Winslet
© 2025 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

This film is considered a Christmas story, but I wouldn’t say so. Yes, it is set in December, but to be honest, as a sensitive person, I wouldn’t like to watch it for Christmas. However, it’s February now, so I absolutely recommend you to say goodbye to June. Who is she? June (Helen Mirren) is an elderly lady that is losing her battle with cancer and has very little time to live. She’s taken to hospital and is about to stay there until the very end, which most probably will happen before Christmas. Her family is quite… complex. She has 4 adult children and each of them is a different story. Connor (Johnny Flynn) is struggling to find his path and keeps living with his parents. Helen (Toni Collette) moved to the USA and focused on her spiritual awakening. Julia (Kate Winslet) is a successful woman, both professionally and privately. And Molly (Andrea Riseborough) hasn’t had as much luck in life as Julia, which led to a huge fight between them. Also, June’s husband, Bernie (Timothy Spall), seems to be living in a different reality and doesn’t express much interest or emotions about the whole situation. Before leaving, June wishes to do something for her family and help each one of them. How? You will see yourselves. It’s actually Kate Winslet’s directional debut, so let’s appreciate it! I believe she did a wonderful job and told an important universal story. On the one hand, it’s about a dying woman, who is waiting for her end while everyone around her is just living their live. They visit her and show the love, but in the end, she’s the one stuck in that bed and sleeping alone with her thoughts. Such picture isn’t pleasant, but it’s real. On the other hand, we get various issues the family members struggle with and perhaps it’d be easier to deal with them if only they sticked together. It’s a heart-warming story and a promising debut, so I hope you’ll enjoy it. Also, Helen Mirren did a marvellous acting job here, so make sure to experience it. And I wish Kate to keep directing!

My rating: 7/10
S.