Boyz 'N the Hood and Happy Together

John Singleton's 1991 "Boyz 'N the Hood" is leaving Netflix Instant next week. It was one of the first, if not the first, film to deal explicitly with gang violence. The most fascinating aspect of the film is its ability to humanize all characters involved. In this sense it succeeds much like how "The Wire" by David Simon succeeds. Murderers, drug dealers, and gang members are all seen as essentially human, not one-dimensional "bad guys." It has a two part structure wherein it depicts how three different kids grow up and respond differently to the surrounding hood. The dynamic between Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, and Morris Chestnut make up the most memorable scenes. Lawrence Fishburne plays Gooding Jr.'s character's---Tre's---father. In the beginning, a young Tre gets into a fight at school. He is sent home to his single mother. Tre is an intelligent boy but disrespects his peers as well as adults. His mother decides to send him to his father (who lives in the hood). She hopes Tre will learn valuable life lessons from him. The first part of the film, then, explores Tre growing up with his father in the hood and meeting young Doughboy and Doughboy's half-brother, young Ricky. The second part of the film explores how they've all dealt with the things that happened over the course of about seven or eight years in the hood. Doughboy is played by the awesome Ice Cube, and Ricky is played by Morris Chestnut. It shouldn't be missed. It really is too bad it's only streaming until the end of the month.

Wong Kar-Wai's 1997 "Happy Together," lensed by the best, Christopher Doyle, is one of my favorites from the 90s as well as from this director/DoP combo. It's filmed in color and in black & white. Every scene is magnificent. Christopher Doyle dances around and, at times, seemingly with actors Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung. Each shot is playfully experimental. The film tells the story about how the two characters attempt to renew their relationship by traveling to Argentina. As with many of Wong Kar-Wai's films, place, time, and small details (such as what the characters are wearing) are of the utmost importance. One can't be texting while watching. It has been recognized as one of the first films to depict explicitly a homosexual relationship (long before the overrated yet worthwhile experience by Ang Lee's "Brokeback Mountain"; in my film viewing experience, Asian directors have been much more open to such subjects). The two characters are played brilliantly by Leung (one of the best actors working today; his eyes are so sad!) and Cheung. The plot, if you can call it that, is much more melancholy and loose than "Chungking Express," and it actually feels more akin to "In the Mood for Love" even though stylistically this and the former are more alike. It reminds me of something Samuel Beckett, Jean-Paul Sartre, or maybe one of the Beatniks would have wrote. It's loose but it meditates on heavy and interesting aspects of all our lives such as love, loneliness, friendship, and letting go. The film has staying power. It will surely continue to haunt after just a single viewing. This is something very important to me when judging a film, and it is something most, if not all, of Wong Kar-Wai's films have. So, if you haven't already, be sure to check it out on Netflix Instant along with other films currently available by the contemporary master. Also: be on the lookout for his film, "Grandmaster," coming to theaters this year!

Kagemusha and Charade

1980's "Kagemusha" or "Shadow Warrior" is a fantastic film by master Akira Kurosawa. Incidentally, I should say that the film probably wouldn't have been made unless Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas stepped in as executive producers. The film opens on three men who all look very similar to one another. There is Shingen, his brother, Nobukado, and a thief. Shingen and Nobukado spare the thief from being killed for his thievery and decide he will be extremely useful as a kagemusha or decoy duck...erm...political decoy. This proves to be true. Soon thereafter Shingen is shot dead and the thief takes his place. Only a few members of Shingen's inner circle know who the new Shingen really is. The thief slowly grows into the role as enemies advance. The movie works so well because of its focus on the thief gradually assuming the role of Shingen. There aren't very many battles compared to other Kurosawa samurai epics or, at least, they are significantly shorter and less thrilling than ones typically found in Kurosawa's canon (apparently many such scenes were filmed with over 500 extras, but didn't make it to the final cut). So, if you watch this, don't go in thinking you are about to see "Seven Samurai II" or "Ran II." You're expectations might ruin what would otherwise prove to be a worthwhile experience. If one expects an exacting, subtle character study, then one will more probably have a rewarding experience. Of course the film owes much of its success in these respects to the performances of Tatsuya Nakadai. He plays both the thief and Shingen. And it's his subtle acting that really makes seeing the thief's transformation fun to watch. It's streaming on Netflix, so, put aside 3hrs and absorb filmic genius this weekend. 


I've watched Stanley Donen's 1963 romcom/mystery "Charade" only just recently. And man! do I regret waiting so long. Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn (who is infinitely better than her distant cousin Katherine) star. And they're romantically involved! Alright! What was I waiting for? The rest of the main cast is also a treat. A very young Walter Matthau, James Coburn, and George Kennedy are all really fantastic in this film. They all work on both the comic and suspenseful levels of the film. The film begins with some really exciting music (as soon as it started I knew I was in for a treat; it was nominated for an Academy Award) and a dead body hucked off of a moving train. The body is the husband of Hepburn's character. Over the course of the first act, she learns from Matthau's character that her husband may have been in possession of a large sum of money and that some folks would almost surely be coming after her next to get it. She has no idea about the whereabouts of the money. It's clear that Coburn and Kennedy's characters are two of these thugs, and they certainly begin pestering her about the money just as Matthau's character predicted. Indeed, they waste no time in doing so as they arrive at her husband's funeral; comically checking---in their individual ways---whether he's actually dead. What's less clear is where Grant's character stands in this charade. Is he there to help, or is he a flim-flam man? What are you waiting for? It's "The best Hitchock film Hitchock never made." It's streaming on Netflix Instant! Thanks to my grandma Helen for suggesting this to me ages ago.

Audition; Forbidden Games; Neighboring Sounds

Leaving Netflix Instant next week is Takashi Miike's 1999 "Audition." It starts out as a modern Yasujiro Ozu movie might start. A man has been single for seven years. So, it's time to remarry, so says his son. But then the movie takes a turn very late in the game when we realize his new interest is a psycho killer. It's called "Audition" because the man meets this psycho killer in a mock audition for a TV show. The end is pretty graphic even by today's standards and will imprint the Japanese word for "deeper" into your memory for ever. Nevertheless it's very artfully done and the last few sequences even become interestingly surreal, in a dark Lynchian sort of way, as the protagonist lies on the floor drugged. I found it interesting as well that at the same time we find the protagonist's actions unacceptable (auditioning for a girlfriend) we also feel really bad for him (because he's not that typical guy) when she starts her graphic ritual in the last 30mins. In fact, it's interesting that we can even sympathize with her! This isn't typically the case in horror films of the same kind. Anyway, give it a whirl, if you have the guts to spare! This isn't the sort of movie that is typically my cup o' tea, but I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. But be warned: apparently, horror fanatics Eli Roth and Rob Zombie even had trouble viewing it.

No this isn't that movie that left George-Michael from "Arrested Development" thinking: "I like the way they think." Far from it. Rene Clement's 1952, extremely depressing war movie "Forbidden Games" does not involve kissing cousins. The film tells the story of two youngsters and how they react and interact in the setting of the Battle of France in 1940. The little girl loses her family, including her dog, in a German air attack. She holds and weeps for her dead parents and dog. She's left all alone. Then some adults pick her up off the bombed road. Their reaction to the dead dog: chuck it over the bridge. She runs to pick up her dog out of the river. Then somehow (I can't quite remember how) she finds her way to an out-of-the-way country house where she meets an older boy who helps her bury her dead dog. But the dog is buried all alone. So the two vow to bury other dead critters to keep it company. This is how the two cope during these hard times. Like I said it's quite depressing. To boot, there isn't a single adult who is likeable. The children not only are in a country at war, they're also constantly at war with the adult members of the little boy's family. It might sound as if it's pure melodrama (kind country folk take in an orphan). But it's not that at all. Nothing sentimental oozes from this film. Rather it's just a painstaking look at the behaviors of two innocent children ravaged by war. It's better for that, but it also makes it hard to watch in some respects. Check it out on Netflix Instant.

Newly available on Netflix Instant is a 2012 Brazilian film, "Neighboring Sounds" by Kleber Mendonça Filho. This movie is interesting, but I'm not sure exactly what to think of it quite yet. The setting: an apartment complex and surrounding homes. The characters: a group of security guards, the manager of the complex (his family and new girlfriend), and a family that resides in the complex. The camera just sort of objectively observes different slices of the lives of these three groups of individuals. There's not a whole lot tying them together, at least not at first. But it's also not purely observational/behaviorist cinema. Every once in awhile something surreal crops up and jolts you out of your calm absorbing state of mind into a state of mind where you consider the question, "Am I watching a horror movie?" Sometimes it works, I think. Other times, I'm less sure. I would've liked more consistency (inner lives of these folks or just behaviors, pick one), but I think the fact that I have thought about this movie a few days after initially watching it implies that it's worth watching. And indeed, I would be interested in finding out what others think.

Solo Con Tu Pareja; Following; and Noise

Firsts on Netflix! (And HUGE BONUS: "Upstream Color" by Shane Carruth is now streaming on Netflix! Best film of 2013 so far.)

I finally recently had the chance to see Alfonso Cuaron's first film "Solo Con Tu Pareja," which came out in 1991. I put it off for way too long. This was a fantastically funny Almodovar-ish film---with a Lubitsch touch---about a playboy who gets a nasty, nasty trick played on him and decides he must commit suicide. It's a lot more fun than it sounds. For instance, during the first part of the film the protagonist bounces back and forth between rooms as he attempts to seduce two different women. One of the women is a nurse, and she finds out he's not a very faithful cat. So what does she do!? She marks that he's HIV positive on his test results! Ooph! Dude rethinks his actions and life. This was also the first film of Cuaron's green period. Emmanuel Lubezki lenses beautifully. It's cool to see where one of my favorite contemporary director-cinematography duos got their start. It's probably my third favorite Cuaron movie now. Let's hope "Gravity" is awesome this year!

 

Before the name "Christopher Nolan" was a household name, Christopher Nolan had his humble beginnings in a film called "Following," a 1998 British thriller who, because of loneliness, decides to follow strangers around everyday. He makes up certain rules for himself, but eventually he messes up and begins to enter a criminal underworld. This is a testament that the man can make movies without a big fat budget like he does now (see TDKR). He pretty much did everything and scenes were rehearsed over and over again, so, that only two takes would be needed. Interestingly the movie is fresh but also traditional in the typical Nolan way. He's just inventive enough to keep you interested, yet keeps to certain traditional story-telling techniques, so, that you're not thrown out of the movie experience. Nolan does this well as is evident from "Memento," "Insomnia," "The Prestige," "The Dark Knight," and "Inception." But it's already apparent in "Following." Who wants Nolan to get back to his roots!?

Finally, there's Matthew Saville's 2007 "Noise." Two separate but perhaps related murders occur. One is of an engaged woman. The other is of some passengers on a train. The story follows a policeman, Graham McGahan, who is afflicted with tinnitus and ends up on the night shift in a police information van. (Apparently, police information vans are frequently used in Melbourne to solve disappearances and murders.) What's especially great about the film, which is typically missing in Hollywood stories of a similar ilk, is how easy it is to relate to the main character and his situation. Solving the crimes is hopeless. He's not a superhero. Throughout the film he encounters traumatized members of the community. One such member is the lone survivor of the train massacre. She begins to think that the killer won't let her alone for much longer. And the killer begins to send messages that imply as much. I've never seen a film where sound was so important and so center-stage. I remember liking it a great deal, but it's been a long time since I've seen it. Time to check it out again! Join me, folks

Old Reviews: Arrested Development (season 4), Mad Men (season 5), and Top of the Lake

TV on Netflix Recs!

First, duh: Arrested Development Season 4. The show that was abruptly canceled and the one creator (Mitch Hurwitz) who (finally) brought them all back together (sorta). AD4 is really, really good. It is the perfect mix of new and old jokes, new story-telling structure with the same old complexity (maybe more so), and anustart from a cast that looks just a bit older. My favorite episodes centered on my favorite characters: Tobias and Gob (I'm glad they each got two episodes). However, the last few episodes on George-Michael, Maeby, and Buster are all top-notch as well. I've already started watching some of them again. I can say that some of the episodes that were a bit slow are more fun the second, scratch that, nth time around. Hidden/repeated jokes and layered story-lines were the best part of the old seasons. This season does the same thing, but there's no central family crises at the core. Some may not like that the family is rarely all together again, but I think it gives off a refreshing flavor. I must say, I liked the Rashomon effect that it gave way to. Apparently it was really hard to get the entire cast together. Often it appears cheap green-screen tech is used to make it seem like the cast are actually together. I'd say my biggest complaint, actually, is how cheap it can sometimes look. Did Netflix give all of its money to House of Cards and nothing to AD? But anyway: some of the individual stories weren't as funny as I had expected. Lucille, George Sr./Oscar, and Lindsay's stories are not outstanding, but like I said, better on a second trip. But I think one reason why they aren't as good is because some of these family members are most hilarious when they're in the group (making fun of someone else as in the case of Lucille). But back to the last piece of bread of this compliment/recommendation sandwich. Some other things I appreciated were the following. The episodes averaged a longer running time (clocking in at 30mins often rather than 22mins). I, for one, can never have too much of the Bluths. The tracing of where the characters have been for the last few years was nicely done and relates to what I said earlier about striking the right balance between old and new. Kristen Wiig as young Lucille and Henry Winkler's son as young Barry Zuckerkorn. So good. (Seth Rogen: disappointing/unnecessary.) Terry Crews, Isla Fisher, and, of course, John Slattery (aka the Silver Fox) are all really fantastic as well. Finally, I haven't said anything about Michael (aka Nichael), but he's really good too. His character, on his own, is a nice blend of old (still the most normal) and new (hitting all-time lows makes him seem more like the rest of the family: crazy). For those of you who haven't binged yet, go do so at the only place you can.

Second, I've also recently been able to finish season 5 of Mad Men. Mad Men, in my opinion, is the best TV show on right now (I haven't seen any GoT yet). Season 5 is just as good as the others. I really can't believe just how consistent this show is. I really liked the amount of non-linear and surrealist (dreams/LSD trips) story telling techniques that were used throughout. I also really, really, really appreciate the arc of Don Draper's character. OMG that ending. I can't wait until next year! Envious of all of you who are already devouring season 6. A few things I didn't like, however, were the way the handled Lane's story and Peggy and her boyfriend's story. Maybe more will be said in season 6 with respect to the latter story, but Lane's story was really just abrupt and unsatisfying. I really liked the Lane character in past seasons. But not enough time was given to his story such that I would care when it was left hanging... Anyway: I also think I could have done without the reintroduction of the Paul character and, alternatively, I would've really liked to see more of Ginsberg (maybe season 6?) and more of Betty (oh, how I miss Betty). Other than Don Draper's story I really liked Joan's arc, Megan (I'm in love with Megan), Sally! (she's fantastic!), Peggy's development, Roger (of course), and Pete & Beth (though I kind of miss Trudy too). If you haven't already, check it out or watch it again. I know I'll have to in order to tide myself over until next year.

Finally, Jane Campion's Top of the Lake must not be missed. If you thought Elisabeth Moss didn't have range, think again! Those of you who have seen Campion's The Piano will recognize the beautiful photography of the New Zealand landscape (including a place called Paradise). It contains quite a disturbing story and a mood to fit, so, beware. But for those that can stick through this kind of tense drama, you'll be rewarded. There's a real sense of suspense but also a nice balance of humor to pick you up from time to time. Without the humor, the show probably wouldn't work as well, especially if you binge watch it (which is what all the kids are doing these days). Probably the best things about this six hour miniseries, returning to Moss, are the performances and the character-driven plot(s). Moss embodies a wholly different character than Peggy from Mad Men. But she's equally awesome as detective Robin Griffin as she is Peggy Olson. Peter Mullan is also fantastic. His character makes your stomach turn and your forehead bead up with nervous sweat. If there's only one criticism, I'd say it's the ending. Things are tied together quickly. The tying is not inherently bad (Campion does it skillfully and much of the show is about things lurking beneath the surface of what might superficially be seen as a standard police procedural), but I think there should've been a second season or a half of season to really make how it ends appreciated. Keep in mind that I'm a nut about how endings end. So, given that I am trying to force this show on you with all my might, don't read to much into this criticism. Check it out on Netflix! TV binges!

Old Reviews: Detour, Rosemary's Baby, and The Thing

A classic film noir (you have 3 hours to watch) and two horror classicos. In short: three B pictures worth watching.

First up is Edgar G. Ulmer's 1945 "Detour." Sorry for being so late. You now only have three hours to watch this before it leaves netflix instant. Fortunately, it's only about an hour long. It's a very stripped-down, bare-bones film noir (though the camera work is anything but), which manages to have all the film noir properties. It gets especially interesting when the femme fatale, Vera, is introduced. It's a great little B-Movie that everyone who loves film noir should definitely check out. It has its problems and yet it has a lot of staying power; much like last year's "Premium Rush."

Second is Roman Polanski's 1968 "Rosemary's Baby." This is a fantastic horror movie that's more on the psychological side than the blood lust side of the genre. Mia Farrow stars. I've only seen a handful of Mia Farrow movies. She really does a great job in all of them. But I think this might take the cake. Of course, John Cassavetes does a wonderful job as well, but Farrow is the only character who is consistently believable (until maybe the end). This is definitely worth a watch if only to understand all the subsequent pop-culture references. But also, as with "Detour," it has a lot of staying power for a kind of movie that you wouldn't at first think would have such staying power. So, all in all, I'd say it's earned its place in our culture's psyche. I don't know if I'm comfortable calling it a B picture, but it does have some of those qualities. Interestingly, the scene where Farrow walks into oncoming traffic, the traffic is real and Polanski is behind the hand-held since he was the only one willing to do it. Crazy man. If you're wondering where "American Horror Story" got a lot of its inspiration, check it out!

Finally, John Carpenter's 1982 "The Thing," starring Kurt Russell. I found this to be a very entertaining film. My only criticism is that the end was entirely too predictable and, so, pretty much worthless. That's only like the last 15mins though, so, I still recommend giving it a shot. The story is about a group of scientists in Antarctic who stumble upon a life form from another planet that assumes the form of its host. Scary stuff. Who's the alien?! Obviously there seem to be some pretty easy ways to get out of this mess, but the movie keeps your interest despite some of the irrational behaviors of the characters. It's a classic 80s horror film. Folks interested in seeing where cutting-edge special effects were during the times, should not miss it. Watching it makes me want to go back and watch the Howard Hawks original when I have a chance. Check it out for yourself on netflix instant before netflix decides to get rid of everything pre-2010.

Old Reviews: Distant and Once Upon a Time in Anatolia

Nuri Bilge Ceylan on Netflix Instant.

2002's "Distant" is a story about one down-on-his-luck guy who has lost his job and his well-off relative, a photographer who used to want to be a filmmaker like the great Tarkovsky (actually, his love for Tarkovsky is pretense as we find he would rather watch porn when nobody is looking--that scene is actually pretty hilarious). The movie is about the emotional distance between the relatives. They are distant even though they live together. Ceylan is a filmmaker who really does seem to be the rightful heir to Tarkovsky (unlike Andrei Sokurov, who everyone I've read seems to give that title to). The movie is contemplative and slowly paced. This is to fantastic effect as we observe the family dynamic of these two and, alas, perhaps, even relate to as well. This is leaving Netflix Instant soon, so, check it out soon!

2011's "Once Upon a Time in Anatolia" is even better than "Distant." This is definitely one of my favorite films of a really fantastic year for film. This is an extremely beautiful movie which captures moments of time related to a search for a dead body on the Turkish country side. When the film starts, yellow vehicle lights paint the nighttime landscape. I immediately got goose bumps. I was immediately hooked. The film is based on real events. The title references Sergio Leone's "Once Upon a Time in the West" and was something one of the real drivers uttered during the actual event. If "Distant" wasn't Tarkovsky enough for you, "Anatolia" definitely is. No question. It's a fantastic film. The only thing I would criticize is the end (I don't know: the last 30mins or so) because after such a long and beautiful build up, it seems like a let down to enter into a movie that seems so ordinary. But it's still worth it, believe me! Just look at the beauty of the poster! As with "Distant," the movie is very contemplative. The environment of the story is as much a character as the characters themselves (and is perhaps more important). I recommend that you be in a comfortable and absorbing state, if you give it a shot. You have to be willing to just soak it in and go along for the ride. After I saw "Distant" I thought: "Maybe I should pay more attention to Ceylan." After I saw "Anatolia" I thought: I need to watch everything this filmmakers has made and will make." Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think! I realize Ceylan's movies aren't for everyone but if you watch one, let it be "Anatolia".

Old Reviews: The Host and Mother

Bong Joon-ho on Netflix Instant.

2006's "The Host" is a monster film starring the loveable Song Kang-ho and inspired by actual events. An American military pathologist forces his Korean assistant to dump some formaldehyde into the Han river. This causes some fish of the river to mutate and become a large amphibious monster (I said "inspired," not "based"), which is a host of a deadly virus. What Bong Joon-ho does with the monster genre is really fantastic. This is not a typical blockbuster movie that you'd expect from me labeling it a monster movie. It's highly entertaining, but also very smart and subtly politically charged. Moreover, there's a lot of fantastic humor, which Bong Joon-ho has proven himself to be exceptional at delivering. It's also really cool that Bong Joon-ho doesn't hold back in showing the creature at the very beginning and in broad daylight. This is unlike most films of the sort that only reveal what the monster looks like toward the end (which is kind of annoying, really). Another thing that's really great in this film---which has also become a Bong Joon-ho trademark---is showing the ineptitude of S. Korean government for comedic effect. Be sure to check it out! I know I feel the urge to give it a third or fourth viewing!

2009's "Mother" is my favorite Bong Joon-ho movie. (This will be my third and last "Mother's Day and Movies" related posting. The first is my background photo and the second was yesterday's posting of the "Jeanne Dielman" clip.) A mother who sells herbs and performs acupuncture lives only with her mentally handicapped son. Suddenly a high-school girl is found dead and the mother's son is suspect (well, actually, the police just assume he did it even though there's little evidence and they've barely done any investigating--again, here's the comedic ineptitude of S. Koreans in charge). This greatly upsets the mother and, so, she begins to do some investigating of her own (well, sometimes with the help of her son's only friend). The ending is fantastically sweet and hilarious. Bong Joon-ho is a master. What he did with the monster genre in "The Host" he does here for the crime genre. He makes it his own. I could watch this over and over again. Check it out y'all!

Old Reviews: Howl and Mary & Max

A little experimental sleeper hit and a claymation.

Third up is Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman's 2010 "Howl." I think I just accidentally happened on this movie one night last year. It turned out to be surprisingly really good. It's probably in my top 15 for that year. James Franco (an actor in everything nowadays) stars as Allen Ginsberg. I call the film experimental because of the way it explores the life and poem ("Howl") of Allen Ginsberg. It's nonlinear, it re-enacts Ginsberg's performance of "Howl" (as well as interprets some of it with animation), and it shows Ginsberg's life before and after (during the 1957 obscenity trial) writing "Howl." Fans of beatniks and this time period won't want to miss this. Ignore the naysayers! This is a fantastic celebration of what cinema and poetry can do. You'll be surprised about how good it is; I was! It's leaving Netflix Instant by the 15th, so, hurry, hurry, hurry!

Fourth up is the Australian, dark-comedy, claymation, "Mary and Max" made by Adam Elliot in 2009. Come to think of it, this was another little sleeper hit that I just seemed to happen upon. It's pretty funny in a dark sort of way. Poor little Australian Mary does not have much going for her. Her father is a drunk, her mother is a klepto, and she's got quite the birthmark on her forehead. One day she decides to write to someone in New York. She selects Max (voiced by Philip Seymour Hoffman) randomly. Max also does not have much going for him. He's obese, he has anxiety attacks, and he has Asperger's syndrome. However, he eventually decides to write little Mary back and the two become close friends. The rest of the film follows their odd, sweet, and funny relationship over a few decades. This animation is probably not for the kiddies, but I'm sure many adults will enjoy. Check it out on Netflix Instant before they get rid of another 1800 streamers! Also, it's in black and white! How cool is that!?

Old Reviews: Bottle Rocket and Brick

Crazy spins on crim/noir films/first films from Wes Anderson and Rian Johnson.

First up is Wes Anderson's 1996 "Bottle Rocket." The film starts off in true Anderson-style: Dignan (Owen Wilson) "rescues" Anthony (Luke Wilson) from a voluntary mental hospital. Dignan proceeds to show Anthony his autistically 75 year plan, which involves many heists. To begin, they start small with a practice heist on Anthony's house. They continue to engage in larger and larger-scale heists as the movies unfolds. It's pretty hilarious and actually fun to see the relationship between Dignan and Anthony bounce up and down. Though it's not my favorite Wes Anderson movie, it's fun to see where Anderson and the Wilson bros go their starts. This movie is much more loose in its style than, say, Anderson's sophomore effort, "Royal Tenenbaums." However, the Anderson feel is still there, only less extreme. Check it out on Netflix Instant. Martin Scorsese thought it was one of the top 10 movies of the 1990s!

Second up is Rian Johnson's 2005 "Brick." Rian Johnson has only three films under his belt to date: "Brick," "Brother's Bloom," and, most recently, "Looper." Of the three, "Brick" is my favorite. It is really, really cool to see a 1940s film noir take place in the setting of high school or, alternatively, a high-school movie that replaces Humphrey Bogart in "Maltese Falcon" with Joseph Gordon Levitt (in fact, they both use the line "Now you are dangerous" on the femme fatale of each film). It might be best to watch with subtitles if you are not accustomed to hearing high-schoolers speak this way (they don't; that's the point). If you enjoy old film noirs and love the way they speak in those films, you'll love this movie. It's not just the dialogue though (though its importance is not to be understated: keep in mind the phrases "tug," "the Pin," "poor Frisco," and, of course, "brick"). Femme fatales galore, intricate and insanely confusing plots, and a tough but realistic protagonist. There's more "neo" than just the high-school setting that should be noted as well. The way the film looks and how it was shot is original for this kind of film. Johnson was more inspired by Sergio Leone's Westerns and Roman Polanski's "Chinatown" (also a neo-noir) when it comes to how the film looks rather than "Maltese Falcon" or "The Big Sleep." The outcome is fairly brilliant and, especially, refreshingly fun. Check it out on Netflix Instant.

Old Reviews: Upstream Color and Primer

Shane Carruth 2013 and 2004.

Shane Carruth's new movie, "Upstream Color," is now playing in select theaters. In the Phoenix area it's playing until Thursday at the Harkins theater on Mill. It's the best (and weirdest) 2013 movie I've seen so far! That's not saying much, but I predict it will hold its own throughout 2013. It's about a new drug that's either discovered or invented that allows certain mental abilities. If you have a worm that has this drug in its system, pour pop over it, and drink the "run-off" pop with your buddies, then you can know what action's the other will take (and engage in some kung fu). If, alas, some thief makes you inhale or swallow the worm, however, s/he can control your mind and take all your money by making you give it to them. However, there is also a character known only as The Sampler in the credits who seemingly helps folks infected by the drugged-up worm. He does so by placing the worm inside of a pig. Once the worm is inside the pig, everything that happens to that pig happens to you. So, for instance, if two pigs start to get snugly with each other, you and another one of the recovered individuals begin a romantic relationship. So, I guess, given how I've described the set-up, "Upstream Color" is a sort of very surreal romantic sci-fi. Excited yet!? Not only is the ensuing story extremely fun and interesting to watch unfold, but Shane Carruth's imagery is also wonderfully fantastic. Shane Carruth is extremely indie. He writes, directs, stars, produces, edits, composes (oh my god the sound track is amazing in this film), and shoots his films. It's no wonder he makes a film every 9 years, but, damn, does he do a good job. There's one part that I still don't understand completely, but I still highly recommend this film. You can't leave your thinking cap at the theater entrance for this film.

Shane Carruth's first movie "Primer" was released in 2004. Some friends of mine and I were fortunate enough to watch it at the Seattle Film Festival around that time. I don't know about my movie pals, but I was utterly confused at the time. At the same time, though, I was intrigued. This seemed to be the coolest and possibly most interesting time-travel movie I had ever seen. Years later I watched it again...and again. I think I understand it now, but it's still a very difficult movie. However, its difficulty is not a point against it. It's a very good movie. I highly recommend watching it, especially if (a) you want a reason to suss out whether you want to drop in on "Upstream Color" while it's still in theaters or (b) you want to see where Carruth got his start after you've already watched "Upstream Color" in theaters.

I can't wait another 9 years for another Carruth experience. Truly he is one of the most innovative filmmakers around today.

Old Reviews: To the Wonder and A Royal Affair

Goodies from 2012.

I've recently watched two really good movies (i.e., top 10 of 2012 worthy). The first is Terrence Malick's "Tree of Life" follow up, "To the Wonder." Stylistically and photographically, "To the Wonder" is brilliant! It has to be one of the most beautifully shot movies of all time. Malick and Lubezki are a force to be reckoned with. It's worth watching just for this reason. It's about longing. Ben Affleck's character longs for whichever girl he's not with (the country bumpkin he grew up with or the Parisian he's just met). Olga Kurylenko's character (the Parisian woman) longs for Ben Affleck's character. Javier Bardem's character longs for human connection and a sense of spirit. I wouldn't say it is as good as its predecessor but it is essential viewing for Malick lovers. I'd say there's simultaneously not enough Malick (shots could be held longer, more character/motivation development would have been nice) and too much Malick (people aren't always crawling around beautifully, are they?). Like I said it's worth watching because Malick is really great at capturing beauty, but I'm not sure there's anything deeper here. "Tree of Life" and his other films affected me much more than this. I think Malick's style is best when juxtaposed with more traditional styles. It's not like Ozu or Wes Anderson's style, where you can just take it all in and never feel like it's self-parody or inauthentic (of course, some will disagree with me on this). Nevertheless, I highly recommend! I'm just hard on Malick because I expect a lot from genius. It's playing in theaters and available on iTunes (but don't watch it on your dinky computer!).

The second is another beautifully shot movie: Nikolaj Arcel's "A Royal Affair." I was very surprised by how awesome this movie turned out to be. I'm not a big fan of movies set in this period. However, this movie gave a very modern feel to that period since it deals with the contrasting values of 18th century Denmark and the values of the Enlightenment. Mads Mikkelsen, Alicia Vikander, and Mikkel Folsgaard are all brilliant in this film. The film is very linear, but this is not a downfall. Every sequence leads seamlessly into the next. Arcel really knows how to tell a story. Moreover, the photography is very beautiful and, actually, quite Malick-esque. "A Royal Affair" is newly available on Netflix Instant. I dare you not to watch it more than once!

Old Reviews: Shotgun Stories and Thirst

Recent goodies.

Though it's not leaving May 1st, I thought it would be a good time to recommend Jeff Nichols's 2007 "Shotgun Stories" as his "Mud" is now in theaters. "Shotgun Stories" tells the story of a blood feud that erupts as a result of two families' common father passing away. To one family he was a dirt bag, even possibly extremely violent. To the other, he was a born-again Christian. When one of the brothers (played by the fantastically gifted Michael Shannon) from the former family says some nasty things at the funeral and even goes as far as spitting on the coffin, the tension between the families reaches all-time highs. Beautifully shot, Nichols shows us that he's got an eye for making ugly things interesting. In my opinion, it's much better than his similar but different "Take Shelter." However, as with "Take Shelter," Nichols seems to have a problem with endings. In any event, this is surely worth a viewing to see where a soon-to-be household name got his start.

Park Chan-wook's 2009 "Thirst" is my second favorite of his (my first is "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance"; the others of the "Revenge trilogy" are pretty mediocre in my opinion). "Thirst" has a very interesting premise: A Catholic priest becomes a vampire! He, of course, has a difficult time with this. He eventually falls for his friend's wife and turns her. The film then interestingly goes from a story about one vampire's moral conundrums to a blood-spattered comedy of sorts. It's not as good as something like "Let the Right One In"---actually, like "Shotgun Stories" and "Take Shelter" it suffers from a not-so-satisfying ending---but it is definitely worth checking out. Park Chan-wook is a very gifted director from a country that seems to be full of them. Note: This is leaving Netflix Instant by May 1st, so, hustle, yuns!

Old Reviews: The Lady Vanishes and Gregory's Girl

UK classics.

First up is Alfred Hitchcock's 1938 "The Lady Vanishes." I've seen this movie at least a dozen times. It's one of Hitchcock's early greats. It combines the comedy and suspense that is always a given in a Hitchcock classic. The first 30mins or so is basically comic relief. But then something terrible happens! I woman on a train suddenly disappears, and everyone denies ever having seen her! It's really good entertainment and well-made. Look for the cameo in the last 3-4mins! Check it out on Netflix Instant!

Second up is Bill Forsyth's 1981 "Gregory's Girl." This is funny little Scottish coming of age tale. The main character is sort of waltzing his way through the last year of secondary school. A girl tries out for the football team, takes his place on the team, and he falls in love with her. The consistency of laughs and the ending (for not going where all other movies of this kind go) are to be highly commended. To be sure, it is definitely a product of the 80s. For instance, sultry saxophone is heard throughout. But, trust me, this 80s romp is worth it! Check it!

Old Reviews: Trance

Danny Boyle's "Trance" is now playing in theaters. If you were thinking of spending a small fortune watching it, think again. I repeat: do NOT watch this movie. It is terrible. To be honest, I have never been a fan of Boyle. That's right, I don't even like "Slumdog Millionaire." I find his cinematic and writing style to be nauseatingly atrocious. However, after I saw "127 Hours" last summer, I thought I saw glimpses of why some revere him. I thought: Finally! Boyle found some content for which his crazy style fits nicely. So, when I heard "Trance" was coming to town, I decided to give it a shot. Whoops! This is the most thinly written, overly stylized (to absolutely no effect or enjoyment) neo-thriller I have ever seen. I didn't care at all about any of the characters. They are constructed as chess pieces moving a terrible plot forward. By far the worst and most memorable scene is when Rosario Dawson and James McAvoy's characters start to get hot and heavy. She stops and says, "I know what you want." Seconds later she's in the bathroom and we hear, what? OMG, say it isn't so. She's trimming or shaving her pubs for him. Yes, it's as maddeningly bad as it sounds. Another unfortunate aspect is that the whole movie is about a mystery (that, again, you don't care whether gets solved or not) and rather than leaving some room for interpretation, the entire mystery is revealed through a two-part soliloque from Dawson's character! Ugh. Thanks. I didn't want to think about this movie later anyway. Finally, the "romantic" sequences in this film are limited to rape or near-rape. Why? I have no idea. In short: Boyle tries to be Hitchcockian or Inceptiony and instead seemingly becomes the next M. Night, piling twists upon twists for the sake of having more twists. DON'T WATCH THIS! PLEASE DON'T! If I merely didn't like it, I wouldn't hound you so much! However, I HATED it!

Old Reviews: In Another Country

Bonus goodie from 2012 that I just watched last night.

Hong Sang-soo is my new hero. His "In Another Country" is fantastic, and it's definitely knocking a film out of my top 10 of 2012. It tells three different stories with the same actors in the same space. The shot compositions are similar throughout, which is intended to make you recall the similar sequence in the previous stories. The technique is used for subtle comedic effect. But that's not the reason this is a comedy. Through the interactions between the characters emerges a realistic kind of humor that is not typical of the comedy genre. It's the kind of humor you would expect to find when you're in another country and can't speak the language very well. I don't really like all the zooming, but the viewer gets used to it quickly. Check it out for yourself; it's newly available on Netlfix Instant!

Old Reviews: Holy Motors and The Comedy

Some goodies from 2012, now on Netflix Instant.

Leos Carax's "Holy Motors" is still one of my favorite films (top 5 material) from last year. And if I find the time, I will surely watch it again now that it's available on Netflix Instant. I don't want to say too much about what I think it's about because its meaning demands input from every individual audience member. I think there aren't enough movies like that, and I am glad that Carax is bold enough to give it a whirl. I don't think everyone will like this movie, but it's worth a shot from yuns. Denis Lavant is genius. I especially love the Mr. Merde sequence.

I'll admit that Rick Alverson's "The Comedy" left me cold when I walked out of the theater. But upon further reflection, I came to realize that this is a really, really good movie about a person that I just really, really don't like. It's like 2012's answer to "The Young Adult," if that helps put a perspective on things. We all know people like this. They're hard to like. But you must appreciate Alverson's ability to capture the behavior and lifestyle of the rich, aging, empty hipster. I look forward to seeing more of what Alverson can do. I hope you'll enjoy this movie and not make the same mistake of initially criticizing it just because you don't relate to the character. Really, it's okay NOT to relate. And I hope you don't! It's probably in my top 15 of 2012.

Old Reviews: Blue Valentine and Place Beyond the Pines

Derek Cianfrance. A newly discovered director who I wish to impose on all of you.

Derek Cianfrance's 2010 "Blue Valentine" is available on Netflix Instant. It is now one of my favorite films of 2010 and quite possibly the best movie I've ever seen about a deteriorating relationship. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams are very, very talented. If you didn't know that before, you will post-Blue Valentine. It's a beautiful film that shows the best and worst of relationships. The cinematography complements the stages of the relationships quite nicely as well. I strongly, strongly recommend it. Make sure you have a box of Kleenex nearby to wipe away the tears.

Derek Cianfrance's 2012 "Place Beyond the Pines" is playing in theaters now. I had the chance to watch it two weeks ago before my Munich trip. Though I admit that it isn't as good as "Blue Valentine," it's still a really good film that proves Cianfrance is a force to be reckoned with. The opening and closing shots are wonderful. Ryan Gosling, again, is awesome here. The story is intriguing, and the pacing is perfect. I will say, though, that I expected more from the cinematographer, Sean Bobbitt (that first shot might have set the bar too high). And I would have either written the story differently or edited it differently (I don't think the cleanly delineated triptych structure completely works), but overall the movie is quite engaging.

Old Reviews: In the Mood for Love and Sleepwalk with Me

An all-time fav and a recent goodie.

Wong Kar-Wai's 2000 "In the Mood for Love" is one of the greatest and most beautiful movies ever, ever, ever made. It is perfect! My kind of movie. Everyone should give it a whirl. Christopher Doyle has got to be the best living cinematographer around today. I especially love the music, the slo-mo, the colors, and the play acting scenes. You will fall in love with Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung. "In the Mood for Love" deserves to be watched over and over again. Wong Kar-Wai is a genius; simple as that. You have to pay attention though! He doesn't spoon feed you a story. Check it out on Netflix Instant! The "prequel" "Days of Being Wild," is, I believe, also available via Netflix. I don't think the sequel "2046" is though. All are awesome. But "In the Mood for Love" is the best.

Mike Birbiglia 2012 "Sleepwalk with me" was a surprisingly good little gem from just last year. It tells the true story of Mike Birbiglia (who also directs), a struggling comedian with a very dangerous sleepwalking condition. The famous "hotel experience" is crazy, hilarious, and fantastically delivered. It's worth a shot for a few laughs. Check it out on Netflix Instant, yuns!

Old Reviews: Paranormal Activity 2 and 3

Paranormal recommendations.

Next are the two "Paranormal Activity" movies that are up on Netflix Instant. I admit I am a sucker for these movies! I'm not so much taken with the story, though I do enjoy a good little ghost story now and then, as I am with the style and the constraints on the story-telling that the style imposes.

Rather than merely the shaky-cam style of "found movies" of old, the "Paranormal Activity" movies try to incorporate long static shots via security cams. As some of you know, I am a fan of long takes, whether moving or static. A horror movie is an interesting setting for the use of long takes. One is constantly scouring the screen for, yes, paranormal activity. It gives 8-10min sequences without cuts entertainment value where, typically, such sequences are irritating to moviegoers. So, I support these movies if people can learn to watch long takes through them. Then maybe folks like PTA and Ozu would be the next step. And finally, Tarkovsky and Bela Tarr? Maybe I'm dreaming. Anyway, back to the paranormal...

Because the style of the "Paranormal Activity" movies has been taken throughout the series, this imposes interesting constraints on the next filmmaker who wants to do the same, but different. This is especially interesting when we travel back in time to the 80s in "3." Here makeshift security cameras are used to good effect. I especially like the camera that's attached to the base of a rotating fan. (I've also seen from the trailers that laptops were used in "4"; pretty cool I say. Prettay, prettay, prettay cool.)

Check them out on Netflix Instant. They're not half-bad! Really! You may be surprised! I was!

Old Reviews: Ran and Affliction

Akira Kurosawa's 1985 "Ran" is one of his best (I'd say it comes right after "Rashomon" and "Seven Samurai") and one of my all-time favs. Kurosawa was a filmic genius. "Ran" is beautiful, it's gory, and it's tragic. There's doom, gloom, and boom. Something for everyone! The story is partially based on Shakespeare's "King Lear." At the very beginning there is a boar hunt as the credits roll. It is pretty spectacular and sets the tone and pace of the rest of the film. Oh man, the pacing! It's perfect. "Ran" is the shortest 160min movie you'll ever see! The middle 45-60 minute massacre at the third castle is reason enough to watch it. That sequence depicts some really great film-making, capturing beauty and horror at the same time. My favorite characters are Kurogane and Kaede, esp when they interact. I also really enjoy the juxtaposition of the sky shots. They give the film a sort of surreal element. Check it out on Netflix before it's too late!

Finally, Paul Schrader's 1997 "Affliction," starring Nick Nolte is also sadly leaving Netlfix Instant soon. This little gem was something I have only recently seen (last summer?). Nick Nolte is really interesting in this. Sissy Spacek is good as well, as usual. It tells the story of a small-town (already you see why I like it, if you know me) police man who becomes obsessed with a fatal hunting accident. As the story moves forward his life just sort of spirals out of control for various reasons. It's actually a bit like Atom Egoyan's "The Sweet Hereafter" in its exploration of dark psychology. It will give you a strong appreciation for Schrader and Nolte if you didn't already have one.

Old Reviews: The Fall and Broken Arrow

Tarsem Singh's 2006 "The Fall" is worth watching just for the visuals. The black and white intro is particularly beautiful and obviously inspired by Tarkovsky. (Maybe I just see Tarkovsky everywhere.) Catinca Untaru is also extremely adorable. The film blends reality with fantasy in interesting ways. Sometimes it's a bit much and a bit melodramatic, but seriously the visuals is where it's at!

John Woo's 1996 "Broken Arrow" is a childhood favorite of mine. It's been awhile since I've seen it, and it's probably not very good overall. But if you're looking for some pretty spectacular explosions from Woo, look no further. I don't think I'll ever get the image of John Travolta's character bashing in somebody's trachea out of my mind. Ouch! Dead. Check it out. It's Woo's second English-language movie!

Old Reviews: The Sacrifice and Big Fish

Trees on the poster! Fantastical elements! Relatively new Netflix Instant releases!

FINALLY Netflix has a Tarkovsky movie on Netflix Instant! OMG! If you don't know by now, I'm Tarkovsky's biggest fan. He and Ozu are cinema gods for me. Tarkovsky's 1986 "The Sacrifice" is not my favorite movie by him, but it is better than many, many movies. It's a movie more about mood and visuals than plot. Sven Nykvist (Ingmar Bergman's regular), one of the greatest cinematographers of all-time, photographed this beautiful movie. Lovely goose-bump-inducing tracking shots abound! Get into an absorbing state of mind and prepare to be wowed out of your seat, yuns!

Tim Burton's 2003 "Big Fish" was also just put on Netflix Instant. It's about a father who, nearing death, tells tall tales to his son. The main theme is reconciliation between father and son. The way Burton stylizes the film as Southern Gothic works very well. The colors and look compliment the story's fantastical elements to a turn. Remember when Burton was interesting and innovative? If you don't, check this out, y'all!

Old Reviews: The General, The Stranger, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and Midnight Cowboy

Classics.

Generally noted to be Keaton's magnum opus is 1922's "The General." I prefer his straight up comedies like "Sherlock Jr." to this one, but still this is one of my favorite movies. The canon stunts are classic. The sequences where Keaton is riding on the front of the train are remarkable. Keaton was a crazy, crazy man.

One of Orson Welles's most underappreciated masterpieces, to my mind, is his 1946 film noir "The Stranger." Orson Welles is definitely one of my all-time favorite actors. He's just so damned charismatic, even as a Nazi fugitive. Yes, that's right: even as a Nazi fugitive. The film was also one of the first films to show actual footage of concentration camps after WWII.

George Roy Hill's 1969 "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" starring the handsome Paul Newman and Robert Redford and the beautiful Katharine Ross. The film tells the partially factual story of two outlaws on the run to Bolivia in hopes of finding a more successful/safe criminal career. One of the best scenes is at the cliffs edge. Will they survive that jump!?

My final classic recommendation is John Schlesinger's 1969 "Midnight Cowboy," which stars Jon Voight and Dustin Hoffman. Voight plays a Texan who travels to NYC to become a male prostitute. Hoffman plays Ratso, a polio-stricken con-man. Hoffman cons Voight, but later they become close friends as Hoffman's health worsens. It's a gritty movie, but one of the best for anyone looking to get into classics. "Hey! I'm walkin' here!"

All these are on Netlfix Instant! YEAH!

Old Reviews: Eternal Sunshine and Being John Malkovich

Charlie Kaufman.

What do "Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind," "Being John Malkovich," and "Adaptation" have in common? They're all written by the very talented, Charlie Kaufman. But since I've already recommended "Adaptation," I'll restrict this set of recommendations to the first two.

2004's "Eternal Sunshine" (directed by Michel Gondry) is one of the saddest movies I've ever seen. But somehow it's always really fun to watch. Jim Carey and Kate Winslet play an estranged couple who have erased each other from their memories. If you've ever been in a relationship, this will speak to you. The themes are very real, even if it's fantastical in its plot. The sequences in Jim Carey's memories are brilliantly photographed. It's on Netflix Instant.

1999s "Being John Malkovich" is another extremely creative story penned by Kaufman and helmed by Spike Jonze (see "Adaptation"). John Malkovich plays a fictitious version of himself and the extremely talented and consistent John Cusack plays a puppeteer who finds a portal into the mind of Malkovich. The idea of a Cartesian theater is a bit dated, philosophically. But such themes are still fun to explore in film, and this one does it quite well. On writing the script, Kaufman said that it began as "a story about a man who falls in love with someone who is not his wife." The final product is quite a bit more than that! So, head to the 7 1/2 floor and try being John Malkovich. It's on Netflix Instant.

Old Reviews: Strike and Whale Rider

On the artier/foreign side of the spectrum.

Sergei Eisenstein's 1925 propaganda film "Strike." This was Eisentsin's first feature film. The film depicts a 1903 strike in pre-revolutionary Russia. The most famous and perhaps most disturbing scene involves some animal cruelty, so, folks who would be very bothered by that should steer clear. Honestly, it bothers me too, but the film is really good, all things considered. And, in fact, the slaughtering is juxtaposed with scenes of worker suppression in the classic Eisensteinian way to create a meaning that doesn't exist within either film reels taken singly. If you're interested in this kind of editing/film-making, though, this movie is a must! It's on Netflix Instant!

Finally comes Nikki Caro's 2002 "Whale Rider." This is leaving Netflix Instant soon, so, watch it while it's available, yuns! It's about a young Maori girl who wants to become the chief of her tribe. The girl who stars is wonderfully good. Again there are animals involved, but this time they're full-scale models rather than real animals. Animal lovers, I think, would actually really like this movie. It's a very interesting feminist coming-of-age story. So turn on Netflix and search it up!

Old Reviews: Steamboat Bill Jr. and Reds

Classics.

Buster Keaton's 1928 "Steamboat Bill Jr." Steamboat Bill is the owner of a pretty shitty paddle boat. He's excited though because he's about to see his long lost son, Steamboat Bill Jr. (Keaton). He expects a grizzly, tough SOB like himself, but when Jr. shows up he's anything but. What is more, he's planning to marry the daughter of Steamboat Bill's nemesis! Obviously it's fantastically hilarious. Keaton's deadpan slapstick is spot on as usual. It includes one of Keaton's crazies/best stunts: the front of a house falls down and he misses getting squashed thanks to an open window. It's the kind of stunt that would later inspire folks like Jackie Chan. Check it out on Netlfix Instant!

Warren Beatty's, perhaps, under-appreciated, 1981 epic, "Reds," starring Beatty and, my all-time favorite actress, Diane Keaton. The story follows the life of the journalist (Beatty) who chronicled the Russian Revolution and his partner (Keaton). Jack Nicholson, as always, is great and plays Eugene O'Neill. It's also kind of cool because it seamlessly incorporates some documentary aspects. That might be my favorite thing about it, but the acting is top-notch as well. I actually feel like I even learned a bit of history from watching this movie! It's on Netflix Instant! Check it out if you have the time for a big fat epic!

Old Reviews: Scarface ('32) and Kes

Classics.

The original 1932 "Scarface," directed by the very talented and versatile Howard Hawks. Of course I've seen this one and haven't seen the Brian de Palma version. Haha. You know me! This version is friggin' awesome though! It's one of Howard Hawk's best. Capone himself owned a copy of this film, and film critic/director Jean-Luc Godard said it was the best American sound film; that's how awesome it is. And if you watch it, you'll be able to be all like "which 'Scarface' do you mean?" to your friends when they ask if you've seen "Scarface". LOL! It's on Netflix Instant!

Ken Loach's 1969 "Kes" is a remarkable movie. I must admit that when I sat down to watch it one summer night last summer, I wasn't expecting much. But I came away with a very rewarding experience despite this. The film is about a troubled teenager who just so happens to be really good at training kestrels, even though he's not much good at anything else. One of the best scenes is the football game, where the P.E. teacher decides to take part in an all too serious fashion. One thing though: I recommend watching it with subtitles if you're not used to the Yorkshire accent. It's on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Capote and True Grit

Popcorn flicks.

Drama: Bennett Miller's 2005 biographical "Capote," staring the outstanding Philip Seymour Hoffman. The film follows the events leading up to the writing of Capote's "In Cold Blood." Philip Seymour Hoffman definitely deserved the oscar that year for best actor. He is one of the greatest contemporary actors. It's on Netlfix Instant!

Action/Adventure: The Coen Brothers' 2010 western remake "True Grit," starring Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, and Hailee Steinfeld. It's about Steinfeld's character's determination to bring her father's killer (Brolan's character) to justice/get revenge. So, she hires the help of the "meanest" Deputy Marshal (Bridges character). Along the way, a Texas Ranger (Damon's character) tries to help as well. I'm a Coen fan and all, but I was still surprised about how good this movie was. It was one of my favorites of 2010. See for yourself on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Drive and I Wish

Some of the best movies from 2011.

Nicolas Winding Refn's crime drama "Drive," starring the most awesome these days Ryan Gosling nearly made it on my top 10 list of 2011. Trust me, it's very good. 2011 was a strong year. I suppose my only criticism was the soundtrack. But if you can look past that, you'll be in for a treat from one of the fastest up and coming auteurs of the film world. The cinematography is beautiful. Low angles, dark, low lighting express a gloomy atmosphere that pervades the film. This movie is about expressing ideas and moods without dialogue, and it does it very well. It might be seen as a mixture of a bit of Lynch, a bit of Tarantino, and a bit of Leone's Man with No Name. If you're feeling up to, give it a try! It's on Netflix Instant!

My final recommendation of the week is from the depressingly underrated Japanese director, Hirozaku Koreeda. The film is "I Wish," and it is definitely on my top 10 of 2011. It's much more of a children's movie than his other films, emphasizing childhood innocence over the dark territory of his other films. However, it's definitely worth a watch, even if just with your youngsters. Get them reading subtitles early! It's about two real life brothers who are separated from each other when their parents divorce. Their goal is a reunion. Check it out; it's on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Dead Man and A Fish Called Wanda

Some of the best movies from the 1980s-1990s.

Jim Jarmusch's 1995 revisionist western (two non-traditional westerns today!) "Dead Man" is one of the best movies of the 90s. It's the story of Bill Blake (Johnny Depp) as he struggles to survive an onslaught of assassins with the help of Nobody. Thankfully he sort of goes from wimpy accountant to gun slinging badass. His poetry is white man's metal. Neil Young provides awesome interpretative background music. Iggy Pop and Billy Bob Thorton have a little part, but it's one of the most memorable scenes in the movie. Bob Mitchum's special appearance is also very cool. I especially love the ending sequence, from arriving at the canoe tribe 'till the end credits. It's on Netflix Instant, y'all! Glorious Black and White!

"A Fish Called Wanda" is a 1988 heist comedy film that is pretty weird but really funny if you're willing to let loose a bit. My granny Helen, showed me this a few times growing up, so, it carries some nostalgia points. But I think it's fair to say that most will enjoy this smart comedy about a bunch of people trying to con each other into getting some diamonds. Kevin Kline is hilarious. He thinks he's Nietzschean superman, but really is just a very jealous dumb ass. But John Cleese, as might be expected, takes the gold as far as amount of laughs goes. Jamie Lee Curtis is actually pretty sexy and funny as well. Overall it's a hoot! Watch it on Netflix, yuns!

Old Reviews: Once Upon a Time in the West and Duck Soup

Classics.

Sergio Leone's 1968 "Once Upon a Time in the West" is one of the best westerns, "spaghetti" or otherwise, of all-time. This is as stylized as westerns get; everyone is a super badass. Watch this and learn where Tarantino gets his inspiration for characters and cinematography. Charles Bronson, Henry Fonda, and Claudia Cardinale are so good in this movie. Pacing is super important to me, and this movie nails it. Leone is more interested in the rituals before acts of violence. The camera lingers on such rituals before a duel. No dialogue. No action. Just a stare down and then suddenly a burst of violence and it's over. And, of course, let's not forget about the awesome score! It's on Netflix Instant!

Leo McCarey/The Marx Brothers' 1933 classic crazy comedy "Duck Soup" is one of the funniest movies ever made. I'm not a huge fan of the Marx Brothers, but this is a must see for anyone who enjoys comedy. The "mirror" scene in particular provides one of the biggest laughs in film history. Oh and the street vendor scenes are some of the best physical comedy ever portrayed as well. I'd say it's as good as other great war comedy movies such as Chaplin's "The Great Dictator" and Kubrick's "Dr. Strangelove," albeit less memorable. If you like those, though, you'll probably like this. It's on Netflix Instant! Who knows, you might become a Marx Brothers fan afterwards!

Old Reviews: Punch-Drunk Love and The Lady Eve

VERY GOOD to PERFECT rom-coms.

Paul Thomas Anderson's 2002 "Punch-Drunk Love" is one of the best of the last decade. Adam Sandler, Philip Seymour Hoffman, the standard PTA whip-pans, the beautiful lens flares, and the stressful percussion all wrapped up in a funny little make-you-want-to-smash-the-face-of-your-loved-one-with-a-sledge-hammer-because-you-love-them-so-much romantic comedy results in a near perfect film that can be enjoyed on multiple viewings. PTA definitely deserved best director at Cannes that year. It's streaming on Netflix, youse!

Preston Sturges's 1941 "The Lady Eve" is one of the most romantic and funny movies I have ever seen. Indeed, it's one of my all-time favs. Barbara Stanwyck is a beautiful man-eating con-artist and Henry Fonda is a rich snake expert who falls hopelessly in love with Stanwyck's character. It's got one of those happy, feel-good classic hollywood endings that do not feel tacked on, Spielberg-style. My favorite scenes are, of course, when Stanwyck's character is putting her spell on Fonda's character. He's so hopeless. She's so sexy! Give it a try; it's on Netflix Instant. You won't regret it!

Old Reviews: The Long Goodbye and Mad Dog and Glory

Interesting takes on the crime genre.

Robert Altman's 1973 neo noir "The Long Goodbye" is one of his best (and maybe one of his most under-appreciated). It's like a offbeat "Chinatown." Elliot Gould stars as Philip Marlowe, a P.I. who has a friend (Terry Lennox) being chased by the police, a client (Eileen Wade) who needs Marlowe to chase down her husband (Roger Wade), and a gangster (Marty Augustine) chasing him. Elliot Gould and Sterling Hayden, who plays the Hemingway-like character, Roger Wade, create such fun and quirky characters. There's also a special appearance by the one and only Arnold Schwarzenegger that is odd but fun as well. The opening sequence is very memorable and merits going to the store to get some Courry brand cat food for your cat so she can watch the movie with you too. Streaming on Netflix, yuns!

John McNaughton's 1993 "Mad Dog and Glory," starring Robert De Niro, Uma Thurman, and Bill Murray is a hoot that I've only recently just seen for the first time. "Mad Dog" Wayne Dobie (De Niro) saves the life of mobster Frank Milo (Murray). In return Milo gives Mad Dog a gift: the "services" of Glory (Thurman). The movie is a bit uneven at times (probably due to the fact that the movie was test screened a billion times and changed a billion times), but it's worth sticking it out in the end. All three stars give wonderful performances. It's streaming on Netflix, so, check it out!

Old Reviews: Eternity and a Day and Top Gun

Polar opposites.

On one end of the movie category spectrum, I'm recommending Theo Angelopoulos's 1998, very cookie cutter foreign art film, "Eternity and a Day." It's about a poet who finds out he is terminally ill, and tries to reconnect with others around him, both strange and close. One beautiful scene is when the poet and a boy he meets come upon a refugee camp where the detainees, clinging to the fence, seem suspended in mist. Long tracking shots are the rule, but the pacing is perfect given how much there is to see. It's a very subtle film, and art house lovers won't want to miss it. It's streaming on Netflix.

On the complete other end of the movie category spectrum is the late Tony Scott's 1986, "Top Gun." I was going to write a big long nostalgic review of this movie, but instead I think I'll link to this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzY9a-WmE6o) and advice that, if you watch it, you drink alcohol and get in the mind-set of really believing that Tarantino's interpretation is correct. It's a pretty fun way to watch this classic popcorn flick. Top Gun is streaming on Netflix!

Old Reviews: Louis CK, Live at the Beacon Theater

Louis CK: Live at the Beacon Theater is streaming on Netflix! It is very, very good. My face hurt so bad from all the laughter. It's probably Louis CK at his most consistent and best. He says the worst thing he'll ever say in his life, and then, minutes later, he tops it. Louis CK fans won't want to miss it!

Old Reviews: Y tu Mama tambien

One of my favorite '00s movies, Alfonso Cuaron's 2001 "Y tu Mama tambien," is also on Netflix Instant. It's one of the sexiest movies I have ever seen. It's especially sexy because it's so artfully done, and it really is an interesting study of relationships. The film is a road movie about two male teens and one female in her 20s. Maribel Verdu (I only just realized that she's the homely servant in Pan's Labyrinth; she looks a lot different!) is my favorite part about this movie, but Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna are really good as well. The cinematography is very beautiful as well, as one would expect since it's lensed by master Emmanuel Lubezki. It's not going extinct on March 1st on Netflix Instant, but I wanted to recommend one of my favorite movies of all-time anyway. Watch it, youse!

Old Reviews: Drugstore Cowboy and Half Nelson

Some indies you should watch before March 1st.

Gus van Sant's 1989 "Drugstore Cowboy" is one of his masterpieces. The story follows Matt Dillion and his crew of drug addicts as they rob hospitals across the PNW. PNW FTW! Portlanders won't want to miss this one. Sometimes it's hard to watch because I hate needles and blood in veins and such, but it's well worth sticking it out. Heather Graham, Kelly Lynch, and Matt Dillion are very good. There's also a guest appearance by William S. Burroughs. Watch it on Netflix Instant!

Another indie drug movie: Ryan Fleck's 2006 "Half Nelson," starring Ryan Gosling, is a must-see. Ryan Gosling plays an inner-city school teacher who has a drug problem. But the film is more than that. He forms a very close bond with one of his students after she discovers his problem. It's really good stuff. Ryan Gosling is one of the best actors around these days. The film as a whole has a sort of subtlety that is lacking in most American films. Now that I'm writing about it, I feel like watching it again myself! Watch it with me, yuns!

Old Reviews: Planet of the Apes and The Producers

Hollywood classics from 1968 you should watch before March 1st.

The 1968 version of Planet of the Apes is definitely deserving of the title "classic." Charleston Heston plays the star astronaut who lands on a planet in the distant future. Heston and crew explore the planet and discover it's run by damn dirty apes. They're captured and studied by the smelly apes. Ole Heston gets pissed and starts shooting things. Well, it's more complicated than that. One fantastic scene is Heston swimming with the most rigid form you've ever seen, and yet he has barely any distance to cover.

Mel Brooks's "The Producers" is the other 1968 Hollywood classic I'm recommending this week. It's about a theater producer and his accountant (Gene Wilder) who WANT to produce a Broadway musical flop. So, the skim the worst of the worst scripts they can find. They end up choosing "Springtime for Hitler," which was written by a crazy ex-Nazi. Needless to say, the film is hilarious. Watch it before it's no longer streaming, y'all!

Old Reviews: True Legend and This is Spinal Tap

Popcorn flicks you should watch before March 1st.

For all you die-hard martial arts fans (like me), I'm recommending Yuen Woo-ping's 2010 "True Legend." Yeun Woo-ping is one of the best fight choreographers/directions of all-time. This movie is a little weird, but the fight scenes are awesome and fun to watch. I can't remember what it's about, but that's not really the point. Seriously, though, it's a pretty fulfilling martial arts movie.

For all you die-hard rock mockumentary fans (?), I'm recommending Rob Reiner's 1984 "This is Spinal Tap." Make sure to watch it one volume level 11. No, not 10; but 11. This fake documentary follows the band "Spinal Tap" as they hold concerts to market their new album, "Smell the Glove." The cover of the album is extremely sexy. A great moment in the film is the concert with a "to scale" replica of Stonehenge. Hilarious. I almost hesitate to call this a popcorn film, because I'm afraid you'll miss some of the more subtle jokes if you're focusing on popcorn.

Old Reviews: The Red and the White and Adaptation

Films that try to do more than entertain, if that. First up is Miklós Jancsó's 1967 "The Red and the White." This is a perfect example of what I wish Bigelow would have done with the material she had to make "Zero Dark Thirty." There's no single character. Just institutions or groups of people that engage with each other toward their respective goals. Of course, Jancso's film is also stylistically superb as well. Long tracking shots rule in this film, and the film is all the better for them. It's a very matter-of-fact account of the battle between the "Reds" (Communists) and the "Whites" (Tsarists). It's on Netflix Instant.

Second is Spike Jonze/Charlie Kaufman's 2002 "Adaptation." If I'm not mistaken, the first time I watched this film was in a hotel with my track relay team. I was blown away, and I think it's safe to say that they were too. LOL. It's a semi-autobiographical meta-film that portrays screenwriter Charlie Kaufman's (played by Nicholas Cage) difficulty in coming up with something original and interesting while his (fake) brother (also played by Nicholas Cage) is happy to write the same ole boring shit. What emerges in the actual movie, is an exciting combination of both. Watch it on Netflix Instant, y'all!

Old Reviews: Frankenstein and Serpico

Hollywood classics. First up is James Whale's 1935 sequel to his horror classic, "Frankenstein," "Bride of Frankenstein." Some would say that "Bride" is even better than the original (I would). This is definitely in my top 100 of all-time. I especially love the end sequence and the fact that Elsa Lanchester plays two roles (Frankenstein's mate and Mary Shelly) because of the way the story is structured. It's on Netflix Instant and it's really short!

Second up is Sidney Lumet's 1973 "Serpico," starring Al Pacino. It's been a long time since I've seen this, but from what I remember the movie basically follows 12 years in the life of a police detective, Serpico, played by Pacino. When he eventually begins to work undercover he begins to see how corrupt his fellow officers really are, and his struggle to do what is right tears his life to shit. Really, it's good. I wouldn't say it's as good as the Lumet-Pacino "Dog Day Afternoon," but it is a classic nonetheless. It's on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Jackie Brown and Raising Arizona

Popcorn flicks. First up is my second favorite Quentin Tarantino movie: the 1997 crime film, "Jackie Brown." It's not a blaxploitation film, but it is heavily inspired by such movies. The beginning pays homage to "The Graduate" too, though, so it's a typical collage of movie-inspiration from Tarantino. Pam Grier, Sam Jackson, Robert Forster, Bridget Fonda, Michael Keaton, Robert De Niro, and Chris Tucker star in this awesome, perhaps undervalued, Tarantino romp. It's on Netflix Instant!

Second up is probably my fifth favorite Coen Brothers movie: the 1987 comedy film, "Raising Arizona." All you Arizonians will want to watch this! It's hilarious! Coen Brother symbolism, quirky dialogue, odd characters, and playful cinematography are all here. I also really love the music. Nicholas Cage, Holly Hunter, John Goodman, Frances McDormand, and Randall Cobb as Leonard Smalls (his friends call him "Lenny" only he ain't got no friends) are so good. My favorite part is when John Goodman screams as he escapes from prison (not a spoiler). Check it out on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: House of Cards and Arrested Development (Seasons 1-3)

Wes's recommendations: TV on Netflix edition!

First is the all new Netflix original series, "House of Cards." It's good, better than most TV, I suspect. The entire first season is on Netflix Instant. Kevin Spacey and his little asides are awesome, Robin Wright as Kevin Spacey's wife is awesome, and Corey Stoll is even awesomer (the best part of the season, really). The style of the show looks like a David Fincher movie (see Social Network or Zodiac). Other than a few episodes, chiefly 4-6, the season is extremely consistent. It's a fun story, and it doesn't become too contrived. The women are very good in the show, but they aren't given very interesting stories. Like I said, Robin Wright is very good, but every time the show turned to her story, I couldn't have cared less. Other than that my biggest complaint is that Kevin Spacey seems invincible. Well, and I suppose I don't think the show has much "staying power" or rewatchability value, but I am definitely looking forward to season 2!

If it is staying power and a massive rewatchability value, then I recommend my favorite comedy TV show of all-time, "Arrested Development." It is also on Netflix Instant. I know a lot of you have probably already seen it, but I am also sure a lot of you find yourself rewatching episode after episode. And for those of you you haven't seen it, watch it now and get caught up with the rest of us because season 4 is coming soon only on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Barton Fink and Triumph of the Will

"Look upon me! I will show you the life of the mind!" One of the best lines ever. It is spoken by John Goodman's awesomely creepy/spooky character in the Coen Brothers' 1991 masterpiece "Barton Fink." It's a bit on their artier side, especially the ending, which is why I'm claiming you need to have an adventurous score of about 4 to really take it in and enjoy it in all of its awesomeness. John Turturro is the main character and is as good as John Goodman. One of my top six Coen Brothers movies, along with "Blood Simple," "Fargo," "No Country for Old Men," "Raising Arizona," and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" Also Steve Bucemi's role as "C-h-e-t, Chet," though small, is really fun. It's a bit hard to classify, but there's obvious Hitchcock, The Shining, and Sunset Blvd. nods. So, don't miss it!

Finally, if you are feeling extremely adventurous, that is, you are a 5 on the adventurous scale this week, then I recommend Leni Riefenstahl's 1934 Nazi propaganda documentary "Triumph of the Will." You'll need to be in an adventurous or, at least, open-minded, state of mind in order to get something from 1hr 50mins of Nazi pomp and circumstance. It really is an interesting documentary. It shows how Hitler convinced the German people that we was the solution to all of their problems. It's quite powerful. And technically it is gorgeous. Tracking shots, aerial shots, and finely tuned editing galore! Admittedly, it doesn't become substantively interesting (at least to me) until about 45mins in. But it's definitely worth watching if you're up to it. And who wouldn't want to brag about having seen this anyway?

Old Reviews: Paper Moon and Our Hospitality

If you're a 2 on the adventurous scale this week, try Peter Bogdanovich's 1973 "Paper Moon," which stars Ryan and Tatum O'Neill. It's a beautiful black and white film with great use of long takes and deep focus. It's about a con man (Ryan O'Neill) who sells "personal" and, so, expensive, bibles to widowed women. He meets little Addie (Tatum O'Neill) at her mother's grave site. There is a suspicion that he is her father, and the two decide to join up as a team of con artists. Peter Bogdanovich, a critic turned filmmaker, is a master behind the camera.

If you're feeling even more adventurous toward your movie selection this week (a score of 3 on the adventurous scale), I recommend Buster Keaton's 1923 "Our Hospitality." As with all Keaton movies, this one is hilarious. The premise is that two feuding families have been feuding so long that they don't even remember what they're feuding about. Hilarity ensues. They can't just kill each outright though. That would be boring. A southern gentleman must respect the code of southern hospitality! This is the only Keaton film to contain three generations of the Keaton family.

Old Reviews: Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Chinese Connection

If you're a 0 on how adventurous you're feeling toward movies this week, then John Hughes's fun 1986 "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" might be just the movie for you. I actually just watched this for the first time last summer. It was better than I expected. Now I finally understand all of those Family Guy references.

If you're feeling a tad bit more adventurous, i.e., a score of 1 on the adventurous scale, then Bruce Lee in the 1972 "Chinese Connection" (aka "Fists of Fury") is an excellent choice, especially if you are a Bruce Lee or martial arts flick fan. Lee defends the honor of the Chinese and avenges his master in this bare-handed martial arts flick! Bruce Lee is still my number 1 hero.

Old Reviews: Premium Rush

The other movie from 2012 that I thought was underrated was David Koepp's "Premium Rush," which stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as a New York City bike messenger. Sure the dialogue isn't superb and the tone is sometimes off, but this is a really fun and exciting B-Movie. It had me on the edge of my seat throughout its short 90min running time. In fact, I would say it was my favorite screenplay out of all the 2012 movies I saw. The story unfolds in a very simple and efficient manner. I suspect that given the way the movie's arc is structured, the script would have received an "A" in any film school worth its salt. Michael Shannon is also a great "bad guy" who isn't completely one-dimensional.

Old Reviews: Prometheus

Underrated movie #1 from 2012 is Ridley Scott's "Prometheus." Yes it has some pretty terrible dialogue, unbelievable characters, and contrived plot points, but it wasn't as bad as all that. The art direction and special effects were beautiful. It was nice to enter the world of Ridley Scott again. And it was probably the most entertaining movie I saw in 2012, "Django Unchained" aside. Finally, Noomi Rapace and Michael Fassbender are really terrific in this! The sequence where Rapace's character is trying to remove the alien from her is extremely gripping and exciting. Am I excited about a sequel? No. Did this movie do well what it set out to do? I think so.

Old Reviews: Lost in Translation, His Girl Friday, and Far From Heaven

Sofia Coppola's 2003 "Lost in Translation" was a remarkable surprise! She might not be able to act (see Godfather III), but she can direct! Bill Murray is, of course, genius in this movie. Apparently Coppola had to enlist the help of none other than Mr. Wes Anderson to get Murray on board. I'd also venture to say that Scarlett Johansson does a bang-up job as well in this one. Murray and Johansson's characters share a moment in Japan together, and the film explores this moment. The way it is shot makes you feel like you are caught up in the daily experiences or memories of the two characters. Cinematographer, Lance Acord, does a wonderful job at this. This is my kind of movie!

My favorite Howard Hawks film (other than the "Big Sleep") is his 1940 screwball comedy "His Girl Friday." I can't watch this movie without a gigantic grin on my face the entire time. Cary Grant is so awesome in this movie and I really like Rosalind Russell as well. This combo is much better than the Grant-Hepburn combo of "Bringing Up Baby." If you ever wondered where contemporary directors like the Coen Bros and Quentin Tarantino get their inspiration for fast, witty dialogue, look no further!

Finally, Todd Haynes's 2002 masterpiece "Far From Heaven" is the popcorn flick of the week. Julianne Moore, Denis Quaid, Dennis Haysbert, and Patricia Clarkson all do a remarkable job in this movie, which explores the life of a 1950s housewife as it falls apart. Hence, "Far From Heaven." It can be a bit melodramatic at times, but it's definitely worth watching at least once!

All on Netflix Instant for your viewing pleasure! Hooray for movies!

Old Reviews: L'Age D'Or, Un Chien Andalou, and The Trial

Surrealist classics! I'm not the biggest fan of surrealism, but the following three movies are all must-sees!

Two are from Luis Bunuel. The first is his 1930 "L'Age D'Or." It's basically a dream where somehow your quest for love is mixed up in a documentary about scorpions, imagery of throwing everything out of your window, and an allusion to 120 days of Sodom. Did I mention it really does feel like a dream! Definitely one of my all-time favorite movies. The other is his 1929 "Un Chien Andalou." Best possible synopsis: eyes getting sliced, ants crawling out of holes in your hand, and books turning into guns. I saw both of these in Spain in a Madrid Art Museum. I just sat there and watched them a few times (they're only 60mins and 15mins, respectively), awestruck that I was watching movies in a Museum.

Finally, there's Orson Welles's 1962 adaptation of Franz Kafka's "The Trial." According to Welles, this was the best film he ever made. I disagree, but this is a pretty spectacular movie. Surely one of the best of the 1960s. The grand sets, in particular, stand out in my mind. Well, of course, the grand man himself stands out as well. He is quite possibly my favorite actor of all-time. So much charisma!

Watch any of these on Netflix Instant, y'all!

Old Reviews: Thin Blue Line, Hoop Dreams, and Vernon FL

Documentaries. Errol Morris is simply the best documentarian, and his 1988 "Thin Blue Line" just might be my favorite documentary of all-time. A regular who-done-it. This movie pioneered the use of crime-scene reenactments in documentaries.

Steve James's 1994 "Hoop Dreams" is an epic documentary about two African American high school students in Chicago who dream of becoming NBA players. This documentary is extremely engrossing, especially if you are a fan of the b-ball. Also the soundtrack is killer. My old b-ball buddies should watch this if they haven't! (I'm sure they have.)

Another Errol Morris. His 1981 "Vernon, FL" is perhaps the funniest documentary I have ever seen. It's basically just interviews with crazy, wildly eccentric folks from, well, Vernon, FL. I've seen this so many time and I laugh harder every time. The turkey hunter is the best character ever!

All of these are available on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Antichrist

Finally worked up enough courage to watch Lars von Trier's 2009 "Antichrist." I knew I'd be disgusted by it, and I was. But it was also just a bad movie, even a bad horror movie. It becomes worse and worse as it goes, the end being the lowest point. The overt symbolism and terrible dialogue are just some of the things bad about it. It is no match for "Melancholia" as a whole. However, I will say that there are some very beautiful sequences that rival the beauty in "Melancholia." I do not recommend this movie. Maybe I recommend watching the prologue and then shutting it off. Also: include me in the group of people who laughed when they saw he dedicated it to Andrei Tarkovsky. Blasphemy!

Old Reviews: Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and Winter's Bone

Arthouse. Foreign fare this week is Robert Weine's 1920 silent horror classic "Cabinet of Dr. Caligari." I only recently watched this for the first time. What stands out the most is the interesting jagged art direction. Of course, all of the usual German expressionisms are there, but this movie is worth watching just for the art direction. I noticed that this movie was featured on Portlandia recently. Don't worry I'm not recommend this to you for sinister reasons. It's kind of like Martin Scorsese's recent "Shutter Island" except more interesting to look at. It's on Netflix Instant!

Debra Granik's 2010 "Winter's Bone" makes me think of growing up. I like movies that can do that. Jennifer Lawrence is perfect in this role. John Hawkes is really good in it too. It explores many themes including self-sufficiency, rural upbringings, gossip, and poverty in a culture centered on meth. It's one of the best anti-thrillers I've ever seen. It's surely one of the best movies of 2010. It's only on Netflix Instant tonight! Don't miss it, y'all!

Old Reviews: Harold & Maude and Chinatown

Classics. I'm cheating this week by recommending two classics from the 70s instead of giving more of a variety. The first is Hal Ashby's 1971 "Harold & Maude." I have only just recently watched this for the first time. It was great and really captures interesting features of the time. I won't ruin who dies. Soundtrack by Cat Stevens! It's only on Netflix Instant for one more week!

The second is Roman Polanski's 1974 neo-noir "Chinatown." I must say that this is a very complex movie. I had to watch a few times to fully appreciate all the details of the plot and mystery. Well, or maybe I just got older as I watched it again and again. The cinematography is very enjoyable. Jack Nicholson, as usual, is perfect. (Speaking of Jack Nicholson, everyone should give "The Shining" a recent viewing as the documentary on it "Room 237" is coming soon!) It's only on Netflix Instant for one more week! Look for the Roman Polanski cameo!

Old Reviews: Groundhog Day and The Crying Game

Popcorn flicks. Harold Ramis's 1993 "Groundhog Day" is only on Netflix Instant for one more week! It's like the pop version of Bela Tarr's 2011 "Turin Horse." It's a movie that is really funny and witty. Bill Murray classic.

Neil Jordan's 1992 romance/thriller "The Crying Game" is my other popcorn flick o' the week. I remember when my grandma showed me this, and the "shock" was really shocking. But having just recently rewatched this gem, I think it was fairly obvious. So naive, I was. This movie is interesting because it's almost like two different movies wrapped into one. A decent comparison might be a cross between David Lynch's "Blue Velvet" and Quentin Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction." It's on Netflix Instant!

Old Reviews: Metropolis and The Piano

Art House. For the main course of art house fare this week, I'm serving up Fritz Lang's classic 1927 "Metropolis." A bit of German expressionism at it's best. I absolutely love the "Moloch" scene and the humanoid's sexy dance number. The lighting, art direction, and special effects are all pretty friggin fantastic for the time and even now. You really don't want to miss out one this experience. "Metropolis" has inspired many other science fiction films including Ridley Scott's 1982 "Blade Runner." Catch "Metropolis" on Netflix Instant!

English-language art house fare on the menu this week is Jane Campion's 1993 "The Piano." This is a very, very beautiful feminist movie, which takes place in New Zealand. The blues and greens of the New Zealand landscape are breathtaking. Two scenes are incredibly heartbreaking/awesome (depending on how you're watching it), but I can't describe them without ruining the movie. You just have to watch it! Holly Hunter, Harvey Keitel, and Sam Neill (but no dinosaurs) are all stunningly good. Oh yeah: Anna Paquin is also in it! She's adorable! Thanks to my granny for showing me this one so long ago. Haven't forgotten about it since. Catch it on Netflix Instant y'all!