Tag: comedy

Don’t ever pretend you know something you don’t. “Ella McCay” (2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by James L. Brooks
© 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Perhaps you’ll be surprised by this recommendation, because a lot of people have rated the film low, but I actually enjoyed it. I hope my post will encourage you to watch it and create your own opinion. The film is labeled as a political comedy, but I believe it’s something much deeper. We get to know Ella (Emma Mackey), who’s a lieutenant governor, very much dedicated to her work. The governor resigns from his new presidential position leaving Ella to take over the responsibilities. Unfortunately, she’s not that respected within her party, so the professional life becomes a real struggle. Also, Ella’s private life isn’t such an easy adventure either, since she’s lost her mother, her father abandoned the family and also Ella’s husband isn’t a partner she can count on. This isn’t a comedy about some politicians being politicians and how untrustworthy they can be – I mean, we know that and there’s nothing to laugh at, I guess. This is actually a very interesting picture of a young woman, who has to deal with the world full of expectations towards her. She should be supportive, but also obedient and keeping a low profile. She should be ambitious, but knowing her place. She should be forgiving, even though the ones to forgive have hurt her without any hesitation. She should be brave and stand for her values, but also ready to lose at any time. This production is about being a woman in a very anti-woman’s world. I felt a strong connection with Ella, because even though her story is fictional, all the presented elements couldn’t be more true. And I bet every woman may see a part of herself there. The film is funny from time to time, I agree, but it’s also comforting and uplifting. Why? Because you remind yourself that you’re not the only one and if you think you’re failing, it’s actually you doing your best to survive. So I cannot say it’s a bad film if it’s made an impact on me, right? Also, Jamie Lee Curtis is perfect for playing the role of an aunt. The official aunt of Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen!

My rating: 7/10
S.

I see you. “A Friend of Dorothy” (2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Lee Knight
© 2025 Filthy Gorgeous Productions. All Rights Reserved.

If you’re looking for a new friend, just kick the football really hard and see where it lands. Then go there, knock on the door and let the friendship begin! That’s basically how the story goes here. A teenage boy named JJ (Alistair Nwachukwu) meets Dorothy (Miriam Margolyes), who’s an elderly widow living alone. She’s a typical grumpy grandma from the neighbourhood, but somehow those two have a good vibe between each other. Instead of shouting at the boy for kicking the ball into her property, Dorothy invites him over for a cup of tea. And that’s how an unexpected friendship begins. It’s an adorable short film about building connections despite differences in age, gender, race, or any other. In fact, thanks to Dorothy and JJ, we get reminded that such unusual relations may be surprisingly beneficial for both sides. Also, recently I’ve learnt a new expression – “family by choice” – which refers to all our closest friend, to whom we’re not actually related, but they are like family members to us. Because sometimes, our real families might not fulfil our needs for affection, trust or support. And then, it’s important to search for that somewhere else. In this case, someone found a loving grandma, and the other person found a supportive grandson. If you’re in need for some serotonin, this short film definitely provides it. Make friends, my dearest readers!

My rating: 7/10
S.

The shoe will fit her. “The Ugly Stepsister” (“Den stygge stesøsteren”, 2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Emilie Blichfeldt
© 2025 Scanbox Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

I’ve read a comment saying that this film is a combination of “Cinderella” and “The Substance”… and I couldn’t agree more. That’s exactly what I had in mind while watching “The Ugly Stepsister”. And I must say – I loved it! The film crew took such a boringly common story and made a unique horror out of it. So, if you remember, Cinderella was the poor girl that lost her father and had to live with the evil stepmother and two annoying stepsisters. However, in this film, we get to experience the old story from the perspective of one of the stepsisters, Elvira (Lea Myren). When the prince is looking for his future wife among unmarried ladies, both Elvira and Agnes (Thea Sofie Loch Næss), Cinderella-like character, wish to catch his attention. The problem is that Agnes is the pretty one, so Elvira doesn’t have much chance. However, if only she “corrects” some elements of her body, perhaps the prince won’t even hesitate. That is why Elvira goes through a series of surgeries in order to stop being the ugly stepsister. The filmmakers ask a question: what if Cinderella was the bad character? Why do we always tell this story in the same way and never stop to think of other possibilities? That’s something I definitely appreciated here. Another thing is the costumes, make-up and production design that look fabulous and suit the vibe of this production very well. Also, even though it’s labelled as a comedy, it’s a horror as well, so if you’re a sensitive one – better get yourself a blanket to hide under it from time to time. Maybe it’s not a horror full of jumpscares, but it’s rather very realistic and disgusting. All the zoom-ins may stay in your nightmares for a long time. I believe this film speaks for itself, especially since the director was inspired by Brothers Grimm, David Cronenberg and… a Polish pornography maker. So in case you’re caught watching blue movies, you can always say it’s just one of the steps on your path to win an Oscar. You’re welcome.

My rating: 7/10
S.

You’re so money and you don’t even know it! “Swingers” (1996)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Doug Liman
© 1996 Miramax Films. All Rights Reserved.

Not sure how about you, but I need some break from difficult topics. That is why today I’m taking you to the 90s, where we will join very young Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn on a male trip. Seatbelts fasten? So, let’s go! Mike (Jon Favreau) is a comedian, or he’s trying to be one, but not succeeding much. He’s also broken up with his girlfriend recently, so he needs a total restart. And here comes Trent (Vince Vaughn), Mike’s friend, who’s an aspiring actor and an absolute womanizer. Who can help a broken-hearted man better than a bestie that has sex with everyone whose name starts with any letter of alphabet? Literally, anyone, but Mike agrees to a trip to Las Vegas, which is a place to go when you want to get wasted, have fun and forget about the reality. But no attractions and amounts of alcohol can help when a man is still in love with the woman of his life. Is this comedy predictable? Of course. It’s like a low-budget grandma of “Hangover” film, but I get it – we all need such brain relaxation from time to time. Maybe the plot isn’t the most engaging, but I really enjoyed seeing Jon and Vince at such young age. You can actually see how awkward they were before and compare their acting to what they can do now. It’s adorable, I must say. Let me point out that thanks to this silly comedy, Vince got hired by Spielberg, so you never know what life may bring. And, also, I’m sure you’ve heard someone screaming “VEGAS, BABY!” – this exact sentence was popularised by “Swingers”. Who would have known that a film about two men having fun would have such impact on culture. Anyway, if you need to restart your brain but you can’t afford going to Las Vegas, this comedy will be a cheaper substitute.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I have absolutely no interest in myself whatsoever. “Blue Moon” (2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Richard Linklater
© 2025 Sony Pictures Classics. All Rights Reserved.

“You’re not old enough, let’s wait 12 years” – said the director of the film to Ethan Hawke. And they did. Some may think it’s ridiculous – they could have chosen any other older actor. But no, it was always supposed to be Ethan Hawke, and, to be honest, I’m grateful for this stubborness. The film focuses on the character of Lorenz Hart, a famous songwriter, whose work has been admired on Broadway. But it’s not another ordinary biopic with a predictable script, which is definitely a huge plus. We move to 1943, where Hart’s former work partner, Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), is celebrating the official premiere of his new musical “Oklahoma!”. The thing is Rodgers decided to cooperate with another writer, Oscar Hammerstein (Simon Delaney), so the night is quite bittersweet for Hart. He sits at the bar and begins a conversation (which is more of a monologue) with a bartender, during which we may learn more about his life, both personal and professional. In fact, the whole opening ceremony is just a background and the main action happens at the bar. At first, I was confused why it takes so long to begin the film, but then I realised that Hart’s monologuing is the main point. I must say, sometimes it was a bit tiring and I was zoning out, but the reason why I’m recommending this production to you is because of the unusual biopic form and Hawke’s performance. Even though my rating is quite average, I do believe Hawke deserved to be awarded for this role. It seems simple, but such are the most difficult to master. And he nailed it! Despite zoning out because of the script, I was absolutely amazed by the power of this character. Just to remind you – he’s just sitting at a bar and talking. That’s it. Yet, you become fascinated by him. Also, it’s a very moving way of presenting what loneliness may look like. That the drunk guy ordering another glass is in fact a lost soul unable to ask for help. I hope you’ll find a moment to see it and reflect on the story.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Sometimes the story we tell ourselves becomes the truth. “Rental Family” (2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Hikari
© 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Have you ever felt so lonely that you’d love to rent yourself a sibling? Or a grandpa? Or your uncle’s second wife’s cousin? Well, this film show you that anything is possible. We get to know Phillip (Brendan Fraser) who’s an American actor living in Tokyo. Despite being a foreigner, he struggles to get any roles, until he learns about “Rental Family”. And it’s exactly what you think it is. Their employees are actors who get hired by people to pretend their family members. The man finds this idea ridiculous and doesn’t want to do it at first, but you know – food costs money. His first job is to get married to a woman, who’s secretly lesbian and needs to make such performance only for her family. Phillip doesn’t approve of this lie, but then realises that it was the woman’s only choice to escape with her wife and live happily. And then he relises that it’s a different way of helping people. If you need some comfort film, this one will hug you, kiss the top of your head and make you hot cocoa with marshmallows. It covers the topic of loneliness from a different perspective and in a new form, but at the same time it reminds us that everyone needs some company. And it’s terrible that in our reality, we must even rent a person to pretend they care about us. What is wrong with the world? Something so basic like affection is not accessible? I mean, it is, if you pay… Yeah, this film may frustrate you as well. But on the other hand, it also reminded m to nurture friendships, even if they aren’t perfect. Because despite all differences and conflicts, if our friend stands with us, it’s a genuine relation. And if your “friend” keeps ignoring your needs and isn’t thankful for your support, then kick them out of your contact list and rent yourself Brendan Fraser. He will never let you down!

My rating: 7/10
S.

I just want someone to tell me what to do. “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” (2025)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Mary Bronstein
© 2025 A24. All Rights Reserved.

Make children! Be parents! The world needs babies! Who will bring you a glass of water when you’re old?! Sounds familiar? Young adults are shamed for not reproducing, which either leads to their mental health problems or actually having a child… and then mental health problems. Either way, not very pleasant. Today’s film is A24’s quite unique reminder that being an adult is the most difficult job in the world and it’s okay if we perform the absolute minimum. Linda (Rose Byrne) is a psychotherapist, who seems to like helping people, but at the same time she’s slowly getting overwhelmed. In the end, they pay her for listening to complaints and dramas – it can be rather hard. Her husband is a ship captain, so he’s often away, leaving Linda with their daughter with special needs. The girl has a feeding disorder and must be fed through a tube, which means she needs constant assistance. At the beginning of the story, the ceiling in their flat collapses and the entire place gets flooded. That situation is just the prologue to Linda’s mental breakdown. Rose Byrne is highly praised for her performance here and I’m not surprised at all. She managed to understand her character and present it as a good-hearted, strong, yet sensitive woman, who is slowly losing control over her own life. As I said, being an adult is damn difficult. I hate seeing all those influencers pretending that every day they manage to do 120% of whatever they planned and still look fabulous, and have time for taking cringy photos for the background of even cringier quotations. No, the real adult wakes up and hopes to survive the day. Period. It’s okay to be angry with your partner. It’s okay to be tired of your job. It’s okay to be overwhelmed with extra responsibilities. It’s absolutely okay to be a damn human. Perhaps not all of you will like the character of Linda, but I appreciate showing the ugly truth of “normality”. Watch it, reflect and stop meeting other people’s expectations.

My rating: 7/10
S.

That dog’s a real hero, you know that? “Top Dog” (1995)

SashLeave a comment
directed by Aaron Norris
© 1995 Live Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

Chuck Norris didn’t die. He killed the life! An absolute icon of action films, known for being undestroyable. I’ve never been a big fan of action films, but I do believe Chuck Norris deserves to be appreciated for his work and that is why I’d like to dedicate this post to him. However, the film I’m recommending today is not that popular and also not of the best quality, but I thought I could show you Chuck in a different shade. I mean, maybe not entirely different, because he also plays a cop, Jake Wilder, but this time he has an unusual companion – Reno, a brave dog. At first, Jake isn’t thrilled about working with such a hairy guy on four paws, but Reno will soon prove his competences. So there’s a cop and a dog against neo-nazis. And I guess you know who wins this battle since it’s an action/comedy from the 90s. It’s not surprising or spectacular from the technical point of view, but I actually like Chuck Norris here. He seems… a bit more delicate than in his other roles. Maybe it’s because of the dog right beside him, but I kind of felt like watching a family film with several non-PG-13 scenes where men need to shoot each other. Except that – you may watch it with a hot cocoa and marshmallows. Of course, I have to praise the most outstanding performance by Reno, who was actually played by two dogs. Digby and Betty both created the character of a brave policedog and I hope they got a lot of high-quality snacks for that. Also, there’s a challenge for you – try to distinguish which scene is played by Digby, and which by Betty. If you succeed, please contact me – I’ll personally congratulate you. This film doesn’t have good ratings, but it is a cute element in Chuck’s cinema experience, so I’d like to share it with you. And I bet that heaven is now very well protected.

My rating: 5/10
S.

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

SashLeave a comment
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.

They really lived. “Secondhand Lions” (2003)

SashLeave a comment
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.