tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87222026662335792622024-03-13T18:42:29.378+00:00Film BanthaYou'll find no bantha fodder here...Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-47308202925495177082021-07-06T17:54:00.004+01:002021-07-06T17:57:51.731+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 70. A Fugitive From The Past<div style="margin: 0cm;"><i style="text-align: justify;">We embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places we could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div></div><i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br /><br /><b>A Fugitive from the Past<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQNmf0hug8cdj8hK72FAwCM7oXOVTEoGQVwPcYTWmg1ywBGAuZV-8fG4M0R0pkjFS-UXVRU7mGuqjFOuRTX_iKuz9LRCDUfW34iNBuuz5KDL3KpRCw7c65OhU1B15F06DQJ-kf3XcTrVs/s470/A+Fugitive+from+the+Past+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="330" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQNmf0hug8cdj8hK72FAwCM7oXOVTEoGQVwPcYTWmg1ywBGAuZV-8fG4M0R0pkjFS-UXVRU7mGuqjFOuRTX_iKuz9LRCDUfW34iNBuuz5KDL3KpRCw7c65OhU1B15F06DQJ-kf3XcTrVs/s320/A+Fugitive+from+the+Past+poster.jpg" /></a></div></b><div><b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Tomo Uchida</span><b><br /></b><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Japan</span><br /><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: start;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1965</span></div></div></div></div><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 183 minutes</span><div><br /></div><div>A Fugitive from the past is an epic crime saga tracing the
lives of a criminal, Inukai, who flees from a heinous act to start a new
existence as a successful businessman in Tokyo, and a prostitute, Yae, who
shelters Inukai from his crime and longs to return her thanks for his
generosity when he pays her handsomely after only a single night together. Close
on their tail is a world-weary policeman, Yumisaka, who is devoted to solving Inukai’s
crime; with a determination that drives his obsession to the limit at the
expense of his family life. This core triumvirate of characters provide the
emotional heft for the saga, in a fascinating tale that spans years as it examines
the inherent cultural class differences in post-war Japanese society.<br />
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Opening with an enthralling sequence in which Inukai and two
other offenders flee from a crime under the cover of a relentless storm, A
Fugitive from the Past grabs your attention immediately with exposition that
delves into the nuances of their escape to safety. As a backdrop to the main
story we see a huge passenger ferry capsize in the storm and, subsequently,
rescue attempts are launched from the beach where the criminals have fled to in
order to make their escape. When the weather settles, two unidentifiable
corpses are washed up by the tide, and the police suspect they were somehow connected
with the murder, theft, and arson that have left a helpless family in ruins.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Once the storyline steps forward in time to ten years after
the initial incident, we see a shift in direction as the screenplay evolves
into a film-noir style mystery that intriguingly traverses the route of a
police procedural drama. Each of the main characters are now grappling with
demons from former days - a universal theme that resonates with anyone of a
certain age, regardless of what the regrets may be – and the search for truth
amidst a clouded past. These themes expand to encompass the morality of humanity
and the choices we make that shape our lives forever; creating a deep and
involving film with a rewarding payoff and a handful of heart stopping
narrative turns along the way. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rentaro Mikuni, who portrays Inukai, has a truly commanding
presence - although the character’s prominent stature and assertive persona
only come to the forefront in the second half of the film. As an anxious offender
fleeing from the law, Mikuni appears suitably unhinged, and he undergoes a
striking catharsis to become the businessman with an apparent clear conscience
who is ruthlessly interrogated by the police. Yumisaka, the shamed policeman
who is haunted by his failure to solve the case, could easily be the blueprint
for similar characters in many modern crime films and he is played by Junzaburo
Ban in a stunning performance; acting as the perfect counter balance to
Mikuni’s brooding criminal. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIB_EPgO07loXM8tOJYCZZ-Vot5_BtYYRDk-Vzd2TNl7h53oEX3oEMgxiwkdhnssYY9Skdul1dlwwcSuPfDAMGzXC8PuFHzB0RaQSF5Xyvgr54pEYmJz00WQP6P2ZfFOHocR1AfH-XquY/s1024/a+fugitive+from+the+past+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIB_EPgO07loXM8tOJYCZZ-Vot5_BtYYRDk-Vzd2TNl7h53oEX3oEMgxiwkdhnssYY9Skdul1dlwwcSuPfDAMGzXC8PuFHzB0RaQSF5Xyvgr54pEYmJz00WQP6P2ZfFOHocR1AfH-XquY/s320/a+fugitive+from+the+past+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The female lead, Sachiko Hidari, carries the weight of her
depressing character arc with a surprising optimism, portraying the prostitute
Yae as a steadfast young woman, eager to carve out her place in the world
against all odds. Her encounters with the criminal Inukai exude a natural
on-screen chemistry, even when the tides are turned against her as Inuaki
cruelly relinquishes an opportunity to fully escape from his devious past. There
is a strong supporting cast throughout; those with mere seconds of screen time
leave an indelible mark on the storyline – particularly a creepy old lady who
appears possessed in a startling scene near the film's beginning, and ends up haunting Inukai’s memories. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8yzxTYvDy70t7nPq8M8Vs7nN4mHs4_eTeqW_jcnxBJuTy16RyWyFi3B_7FlUEYpnF2c8PJHhIVbs0KCxjyqo8GauXmzmpmz6fSM-0Le1P_AmnN2L4QBCLInQFoQxmUO_24YKrTdAe04/s1600/a+fugitive+from+the+past+3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1158" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8yzxTYvDy70t7nPq8M8Vs7nN4mHs4_eTeqW_jcnxBJuTy16RyWyFi3B_7FlUEYpnF2c8PJHhIVbs0KCxjyqo8GauXmzmpmz6fSM-0Le1P_AmnN2L4QBCLInQFoQxmUO_24YKrTdAe04/s320/a+fugitive+from+the+past+3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />For a film with a runtime close to three hours, A Fugitive
from the Past never outstays its welcome. The intricate storyline is paced to
allow the audience time to formulate their own conceptualisations, however,
director Tomu Uchida still manages to deliver a revelatory outcome that many
will not see coming. Akira Kurosawa is the most infamous of all Japanese
directors - and rightly so - but Uchida’s mastery of the medium comes
excruciatingly close to matching the finesse of his magnificent work. Alongside
Kurosawa’s masterpieces such as Red Beard and High and Low, Uchida’s superb
crime thriller deserves to be renowned as one of the crowning achievements of Japanese
cinema during the 1960s.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><p><span>If you take the time to watch A Fugitive from the Past then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br /></p><div style="margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wZFGGAdfBFM" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" target="_blank">here</a></span></div></div>
<br /></div>Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-18191356319867581472021-07-01T14:31:00.000+01:002021-07-01T14:31:49.617+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 69. Canoa: A Shameful Memory<div style="margin: 0cm;"><i style="text-align: justify;">We embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places we could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div></div><i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br /><br /><b>Canoa: A Shameful Memory<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSuXGQgYDFladZ5cEuoNIUIxdncN7Au6aSnRPOobkIlzET4M-a0A0c2ZQlN6Ncr8GC0TjVV6bSLugjj0IJL8pko8mwUP1_ZgpX4WaTaVHDljNSCZ_yqXA25-XTPrT8iO6oKfY4p6WXi4/s310/Canoa_-_A_Shameful_Memory+poster.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="310" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSuXGQgYDFladZ5cEuoNIUIxdncN7Au6aSnRPOobkIlzET4M-a0A0c2ZQlN6Ncr8GC0TjVV6bSLugjj0IJL8pko8mwUP1_ZgpX4WaTaVHDljNSCZ_yqXA25-XTPrT8iO6oKfY4p6WXi4/s0/Canoa_-_A_Shameful_Memory+poster.png" /></a></div></b><div><b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Felipe Cazals</span><b><br /></b><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Mexico</span><br /><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: start;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1976</span></div><div style="text-align: start;"><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 115 minutes</span></div></div></div><p>Political upheaval in a tight-knit Mexican community leads to a savage outburst of violence against a group of outsiders accused of being communists in this shockingly brutal film that is sadly based upon a true story. Canoa: A Shameful Memory examines the build up to this tragic event, highlighting the tumultuous history surrounding the town's growth and the abuse of power by those in positions of great influence. </p><p>Director Felipe Cazals presents this eye-opening account in the style of a documentary and this approach adds gravitas to his film's powerful and bleak message. He makes it clear from the very start that we will bear witness to the full disturbing incident, with his cautionary warning acting as an intriguing hook for those willing to delve into this traumatic reconstruction of the vicious and brutal events that shocked a nation. The considered build up to the town's inception of a lynch mob and the subsequent persecution of five innocent men ratchets the tension close to unbearable levels; there is a palpable sense of dread that permeates the ominous atmosphere, leaving the viewer genuinely fearful of that which is yet to come.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfbMn-XXumC4Uhi8U0fkei-e8zcwyih6EH7aB7AaFBKH4stgpwiGzMk4v6IDr71jojE-p6MSI5VlVS1Xyo7wgIRm5bGIfvYSJd64dV_ffcBzn0Tqp_szvcRyFyQbuVh9DSLzTuFes6Mg/s700/canoa+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfbMn-XXumC4Uhi8U0fkei-e8zcwyih6EH7aB7AaFBKH4stgpwiGzMk4v6IDr71jojE-p6MSI5VlVS1Xyo7wgIRm5bGIfvYSJd64dV_ffcBzn0Tqp_szvcRyFyQbuVh9DSLzTuFes6Mg/s320/canoa+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In a film with a clear focus on realism, the naturalistic performances of the cast shine through; from the hostility of the townsfolk to the petrified reactions on those of the receiving end, making Canoa a compelling but challenging experience to endure. The grim reality of the savage punishments executed by those who take the law into their own hands is a tough ordeal for the viewer - with much of the visceral violence veering dangerously close to the extremes seen in the horror genre. This is scarier than most horror films though as, in the back of your mind, there is a constant awareness that this traumatic episode actually happened - dramatically altering the lives of all who suffered and survived through the terrifying nightmare.<p></p><p>Part of what makes the film so chilling is that we are invited into the lives of the victims and come to respect their good-natured sense of comraderie and longing for adventure that leads them to Canoa on the way to scale a nearby mountain. Although they unintentionally rile up a handful of locals by singing on the overcrowded bus to Canoa, they do nothing that comes close to justifying the horrific treatment they receive. It is simply a tragic case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPULS8WjVBiWNq2TDtI8xGAbN5OdPTmOtmgduYVWQ5_Rg16HTtLwwUIdvJ2pQ6zG2B0ElhghSxivJYYUGv-fJUSbwYW40hQA_l0xmK81pRkKNuwFeO4k6SgEMSfLCm_U2uJ-DTw8Wt2w/s1600/canoa+4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPULS8WjVBiWNq2TDtI8xGAbN5OdPTmOtmgduYVWQ5_Rg16HTtLwwUIdvJ2pQ6zG2B0ElhghSxivJYYUGv-fJUSbwYW40hQA_l0xmK81pRkKNuwFeO4k6SgEMSfLCm_U2uJ-DTw8Wt2w/s320/canoa+4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The bold direction taken by Cazals in realising this powerful picture is especially impressive when you consider it was made only eight years after the events, yet it still takes an intrepid swipe at the ruling authorities it depicts, in particular the corrupt priest who encouraged the townsfolk to take action against these so called 'intruders'. The clarity of Cazals alarming vision is strengthened by his close adherence to the facts and his clear desire to share this outrageous story in an uninhibited fashion, showcasing the worst aspects of those who ultimately bear part of the responsibility for this tragedy.<p></p><p>Although the film culminates in a harrowing and relentless nightmare, there are many mesmerising shots of the beautiful Mexican countryside that precede this, highlighting the relative peace and tranquility of this awe-inspiring location of a town overlooked by an imposing mountain before the situation takes a turn for the worse. The film-makers clearly have a great love for their country and you can feel how appalled they are by the barbarous actions of those who are swept along with the tide, condemning their actions with a sombre and heartfelt coda that symbolises the urgent outcry of a nation in turmoil.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfYgBgJHC43mEQecE41qXhCkxVkeEdAbh1X7WrwjJAq5v2zEqBCngi_8n9Q0z8JSrB9ulYv8m6syv21DlK4P7v7M_uRE5MrC1mSBhGiPaKKJ5J8UFsx_LSwWeXikQzB1XjT_ZzhEYC0g/s640/canoa+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="640" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfYgBgJHC43mEQecE41qXhCkxVkeEdAbh1X7WrwjJAq5v2zEqBCngi_8n9Q0z8JSrB9ulYv8m6syv21DlK4P7v7M_uRE5MrC1mSBhGiPaKKJ5J8UFsx_LSwWeXikQzB1XjT_ZzhEYC0g/w338-h187/canoa+1.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>There is nothing more encouraging than seeing a country come to terms with its troubled history and by documenting these horrific crimes in a remarkable film, Cazal has ensured that this travesty will never be forgotten. As haunting and poignant as it is, Canoa remains a powerful work of art that acts as a vital history lesson whilst also being a truly chilling and unforgettable piece of cinema.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><span>If you take the time to watch Canoa: A Shameful Memory then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br /></p><div style="margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-2RPx_RDOhw" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" target="_blank">here</a></span></div></div>Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-89520068424369805702020-11-10T16:04:00.005+00:002021-07-01T14:22:28.170+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 68. Special<div style="margin: 0cm;"><i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div><i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br /><br /><b>Special<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnNr_VEt4Q41H_ANV_tT0gb8mH9CV6tb5mRNFIztET7yMfMW8SWkIhNAiaFNe-ubV7sYlRtpq36anEmE5HFdjQv7_gHwEK6Meaps5F5EgM316c7aj-BRIukqEgnjLKOaPnhxwoUpGuks/s889/special+poster.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnNr_VEt4Q41H_ANV_tT0gb8mH9CV6tb5mRNFIztET7yMfMW8SWkIhNAiaFNe-ubV7sYlRtpq36anEmE5HFdjQv7_gHwEK6Meaps5F5EgM316c7aj-BRIukqEgnjLKOaPnhxwoUpGuks/s320/special+poster.jpg" /></a></div></b><b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Hal Haberman, Jeremy Passmore</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="text-align: justify;">USA</span><br /><div style="margin: 0cm;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><div style="text-align: start;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2006</span></div></div></div></div><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 85 minutes</span><div><br /></div><div>In an era dominated by superhero films it's easy to overlook the fact that we haven't always been inundated with caped crusaders and otherworldly beings who possess fantastical powers. Back in 2006, before the superhero hype machine really began to kick in, a low budge indie film was released that tackled the genre from a unique perspective. This film was Special, a passion project by Directors Hal Haberman and Jeremy Passmore, starring Michael Rapaport as Lester, a ticket warden who is convinced he is developing supernatural powers after signing up for an experimental drug trial.<br />
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Lester's unwavering belief in his ability to levitate and read people's minds becomes the catalyst for him quitting his job to embark on a new venture as a vigilante superhero. His journey starts out as a comical riff on an origin story and develops into a frank and candid exploration of mental health. The quirkiness of the delivery enables the film to juggle these juxtaposing notions with ease; the humour never oversteps the mark and actually strengthens the impression of Lester's endearing nature. The weightier themes of delusion and depression are handled with care, instilling Special with a thought-provoking message that doesn't feel out of place in what is first and foremost a very funny film.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevBfWWB3N_NvzAXymQRIeUq9VjP0Y63Y-SAUu-owFJJcx6ABqj-TA9HBdBPBWUGjXtim6SnZiyLk1hdjzpYFS0Wh8m8pQkwChX1TDfe4GTBh2jigyeSj2KcZHrtGlg0BZN1vze7l9FEM/s740/special+1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="740" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevBfWWB3N_NvzAXymQRIeUq9VjP0Y63Y-SAUu-owFJJcx6ABqj-TA9HBdBPBWUGjXtim6SnZiyLk1hdjzpYFS0Wh8m8pQkwChX1TDfe4GTBh2jigyeSj2KcZHrtGlg0BZN1vze7l9FEM/s320/special+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Comic book fans will delight in Lester's visits to his friends, brothers Joey (Joshua Peck) and Everett (Robert Baker), who own a comic book shop and indulge Lester in his amusing fantasies. Their discussions about superpowers cover intriguing ground and spur Lester on to be more daring in his methods of tackling suspected criminals. It is unclear if his Doctor, Dr. Dobson (Jack Kehler) understands the extent of Lester's delusions of if the self-made vigilante genuinely has developed unique abilities, and it is this quandary that keeps our eyes glue to the screen, eager to unravel the truth behind these mysterious powers.<br />
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Rapaport embraces the challenging aspects of his role to create a believable character we genuinely begin to care for. As Lester grapples with his new found powers, he undergoes a catharsis from a shy, unconfident man to a bold vigilante and Rapaport grounds this adjustment by reflecting both aspects of Lester's persona with a naturalism that gives the film its charm. His understated performance is a sublime portrayal of a man suffering with aspects of his mental health, and his compassionate delivery underlines the film's moving emotional hook.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NTRQXwGlr1w1gRvn9lMb16eF72ymfMxjHL-Ep987xsYrrtHeRgTaLdCI31wjCEf1Rb20c_swade4hy5dYg8vDcV4QIEj5sur_A2zbvuKDwrlYEU_W_4qztoanRNbQBC15E-XcMB9NRI/s450/special+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NTRQXwGlr1w1gRvn9lMb16eF72ymfMxjHL-Ep987xsYrrtHeRgTaLdCI31wjCEf1Rb20c_swade4hy5dYg8vDcV4QIEj5sur_A2zbvuKDwrlYEU_W_4qztoanRNbQBC15E-XcMB9NRI/s320/special+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Aside from Special's poignant subtext it is, at its core, a hilarious and innovative science-fiction comedy. Scenes in which we witness the event's from Lester's perspective and then subsequently revisit the action from the view of other characters highlight the self-destructive ignorance of Lester's state of mind in an amusing manner that extracts the maximum amount of humour from the enthralling concept. Lester dons an outfit of his own making and adorns it with the logo of the drug that he is taking, alerting others to his unhinged nature as he tackles suspected criminals (and innocent bystanders) to the floor. The arrival of strange men in suits casts a shadow over Lester's new found role in society as well as giving us pause for thought over whether he really is the recipient of an experimental wonder drug.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaz43TGXhqXS4TLyyVY8_NF6sjpHA0azmKuJQbjqdPHaGRVNssfFxODBo0GS60azL2HRJQ8LSTZ9-i_2rDYn2ou7ZimFrmpYfpZwHUuIKf_zvb-bL4J9fUfAQAq-78WJc74mzcifsqhsU/s278/special+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="176" data-original-width="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaz43TGXhqXS4TLyyVY8_NF6sjpHA0azmKuJQbjqdPHaGRVNssfFxODBo0GS60azL2HRJQ8LSTZ9-i_2rDYn2ou7ZimFrmpYfpZwHUuIKf_zvb-bL4J9fUfAQAq-78WJc74mzcifsqhsU/s0/special+4.jpg" /></a></div>Although Special hasn't received the same level of attention as similar films such as Defendor, Super and Paper Man, it undoubtedly paved the way for these innovative spins on the superhero genre and some of its originality may now be overshadowed by the imitators that followed. However, it remains a compelling and heartwarming comedy with a broad appeal due to its successful amalgamation of elements of science-fiction, black comedy and touching human drama, all wrapped up in the package of a superhero origin story. This is a film that lives up to its title and deserves to be more widely known in the wake of the multi-million superhero franchises that it preemptively poked fun at so well.</div><div><br /></div><div><span>If you take the time to watch Special then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br /><div style="margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NRHTdNWhAc8" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" target="_blank">here</a></span></div></div>Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-80777771682384657862020-08-24T12:32:00.001+01:002020-08-24T12:32:42.472+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 67. Come and See<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjiaQbPpd9SNkXr2acAw_NSzdfgsucYRKCr47__rNsjAT2iFvH8Phyxw_NhodJ3NbAfmwTqETq6Krdum3Ihoc1q_IGirwtr1R_Kxs4PfUlXZvMkAoDtp-BsSgqpkgER8IgwKbFCyFyeg/s1600/come+and+see+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1043" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjiaQbPpd9SNkXr2acAw_NSzdfgsucYRKCr47__rNsjAT2iFvH8Phyxw_NhodJ3NbAfmwTqETq6Krdum3Ihoc1q_IGirwtr1R_Kxs4PfUlXZvMkAoDtp-BsSgqpkgER8IgwKbFCyFyeg/s320/come+and+see+poster.jpg" width="208" /></a><br />
<b>Come and See</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Elem Klimov</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Soviet Union</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1985</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 142 minutes</span><br />
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Come and See is a landmark of Soviet Cinema, and can perhaps even be considered one of its greatest achievements. Director Elim Klimov has created an ugly and horrific depiction of war as seen through the eyes of an innocent young boy caught up in the Nazi invasion of Belarus during World War Two. This is a graphic and visceral film that doesn't shy away from encompassing the brutal atrocities and war crimes that were committed in the darkest days of the war, and warnings of its disturbing nature deserve to be heeded.<br />
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The nightmare begins with Florya Gaishun hunting through the remains of a deserted battlefield to find a rifle so the partisans will allow him to join their cause. Despite his mother's tearful efforts to prevent him from leaving, Florya is clearly excited about the prospect of joining his fellow countrymen in battle when he is stationed at a nearby encampment in the forest. His hopes are dashed when he is abandoned by his unit and left shaken after a procession of bombs falls from the sky. When the bombing ceases he finds he is alone in the ravaged war-torn countryside, and must fend for his life throughout a series of increasingly dangerous encounters with other survivors and hordes of pillaging Nazis. Here there are no heroics, and no opportunities for redemption or glory; this is war as a living hell - an incredibly unsettling journey through a country torn apart with reckless abandon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFikmApC9hBqk00C7IVBvunVZobhFJDaQHgOy51JlCfYDniAeMtJEgGl-EF_UnfzsLw47NXImIVEw1RIpGIq1Ljx0meJDwuD_y2DCS51qmmQTz2vOrafH9kIXT4SUPJGZiRYms0NcVmU/s1600/come+and+see+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="964" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFikmApC9hBqk00C7IVBvunVZobhFJDaQHgOy51JlCfYDniAeMtJEgGl-EF_UnfzsLw47NXImIVEw1RIpGIq1Ljx0meJDwuD_y2DCS51qmmQTz2vOrafH9kIXT4SUPJGZiRYms0NcVmU/s320/come+and+see+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Klimov stages his action with a dedication to realism that transports the viewer into the heart of the carnage. Stunningly choreographed long takes add weight to the impact of the relentless onslaught and demonstrate the breathtaking direction of a master cinematographer at work. The impeccable sound editing enhances the sense of hopelessness as ricocheting bullets whip through the undergrowth and violent explosions shake the earth, stunning anyone caught in the blast radius, and leaving them confused and disoriented as we experience first hand the unnatural ringing sensation that subsequently engulfs their hearing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGIi7N6YJcQsxNTLazXkEgruy7cK9_Wo_4-4PrOFFrgEexczlVaXVofMceGYoaPDG1BDhuc37_PfYhx-Fsl82It9uz3fV2asJERObnlug_cUumvhuJezH5iwZWPhPPhhvVbG2s1xom3k/s1600/come+and+see+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="697" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGIi7N6YJcQsxNTLazXkEgruy7cK9_Wo_4-4PrOFFrgEexczlVaXVofMceGYoaPDG1BDhuc37_PfYhx-Fsl82It9uz3fV2asJERObnlug_cUumvhuJezH5iwZWPhPPhhvVbG2s1xom3k/s320/come+and+see+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>Florya's haunting transformation in Come and See is a devastating corruption of innocence, with his swift catharsis from childhood to adulthood unveiling before our very eyes. By the end of the film Florya has taken on the appearance of an old man - the impact of the war, and all he has experienced, leaving its indelible impression etched permanently onto his withered face. The astonishing performance by Alexei Kravchenko in this role showcases a dedication to the craft usually reserved for method actors who undergo dramatical physical transformations for a role. The torment and pain that Florya endures must surely have taken its toll on Kravchenko - watching Come and See is a life changing experience - and it is difficult to begin to imagine how draining it must have been to perform in such a demanding role.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTn1BWUMjpLqUiiPM7NLIvMvcLjoJM3eMZXvynewlbhHyiFlWnwlm8d-6LbKGSgeFh5cVlRizJMQEKqBMIXZnVp-K6pdDpbyEkhmV-soRLQU30y96HnjklKmaRhFdPxp-vUUS0B7cI5A/s1600/come+and+see+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="1600" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTn1BWUMjpLqUiiPM7NLIvMvcLjoJM3eMZXvynewlbhHyiFlWnwlm8d-6LbKGSgeFh5cVlRizJMQEKqBMIXZnVp-K6pdDpbyEkhmV-soRLQU30y96HnjklKmaRhFdPxp-vUUS0B7cI5A/s320/come+and+see+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Come and See is a gruelling and arduous experience for the viewer. There are few films that match the ferocity and intensity of its harrowing storyline, and those who label it as a horror certainly have a valid reason for doing so. Whilst parts of the film may be uncomfortable to sit through it is worth persevering as this is a vitally important piece of cinema with a powerful message told in an utterly captivating manner. Is this the greatest war film of all time? Without a doubt, yes.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Come and See then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BcCbX1fqFKA" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-83959846474933105452020-08-18T12:29:00.000+01:002020-08-18T12:29:18.265+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 66. The Seventh Juror<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-Hz6hGhWgZE5TbvkitUM5M7zO8Icm7Fta3WNo6v2r-qu3QQDLAJp0hxUesDRXhX8dW_3FD3_y-3QMgu5PFwobfvPPkKeqQIH9SQVNNq_vHmneSZ0AgmDH-3rKius-z5X1NvpqYEicsc/s1600/The+Seventh+Juror+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1189" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-Hz6hGhWgZE5TbvkitUM5M7zO8Icm7Fta3WNo6v2r-qu3QQDLAJp0hxUesDRXhX8dW_3FD3_y-3QMgu5PFwobfvPPkKeqQIH9SQVNNq_vHmneSZ0AgmDH-3rKius-z5X1NvpqYEicsc/s320/The+Seventh+Juror+poster.jpg" width="237" /></a><br />
<b>The Seventh Juror</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Georges Lautner</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">France</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1962</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 104 minutes</span><br />
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The shocking opening scene of The Seventh Juror sets the tone for this captivating character study of a murderer without a motive, <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Grégoire Duval, a pharmacist whose respectable standing in the community leads to him being appointed as a juror for the trial of an innocent man accused of the very murder that he committed. Bernard Blier takes centre stage as Duval, fixating your attention from the moment he arrives on screen. His character's brief moment of madness is displayed in full when Duval takes the life of a lone woman sunbathing by the side of a lake while a pervading violin sound tangles with your nerves, heightening the impact of this staggering scene. After the murder, the intense violin accompaniment ceases abruptly (perhaps an indication that Duval is at peace after quelling an unnatural instinct to commit a heinous crime?) and Duval returns to the lakeside bar where his unsuspecting family and friends are completely oblivious to his short-lived absence.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitoUz0MZLCAWXmFOD5T9EJ-rOLBAhqd3Y2Z2HwAmqATiBMuTJRteGK_JFugk2Ayv6vd-lRG9oHrCAOgqegdrQrfKiC2xlNEk_RyC1lRg2FPWTgBBB4MScUka8B7-Yp4tAFgv1711xfUmE/s1600/The+Seventh+Juror+1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitoUz0MZLCAWXmFOD5T9EJ-rOLBAhqd3Y2Z2HwAmqATiBMuTJRteGK_JFugk2Ayv6vd-lRG9oHrCAOgqegdrQrfKiC2xlNEk_RyC1lRg2FPWTgBBB4MScUka8B7-Yp4tAFgv1711xfUmE/s320/The+Seventh+Juror+1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Throughout these gripping establishing shots the slow and measured camerawork heightens the mood as the visual aspects of the film draw you in, with silhouettes of lone fisherman across a fog-shrouded lake serving to enhance the mysterious atmosphere. This is an imposing and hypnotic picture comprising countless spellbinding sequences as Duval navigates the ethical quandary of his position with a surprising amount of ease thanks to his devious nature. An inner monologue reveals Duval's internal struggles and invites us to be complicit with this wretched murderer as we learn about his past demons. In one mesmerising instance where Duval reminisces about former lovers we see his distorted reflection in a wine glass; it feels like he is looking into a crystal ball to remember his youth but the twisted appearance of his features also suggest that he has warped into a monstrous killer. These beautiful scenes showcase the meticulous work of the film's cinematographer, who conjures up a wealth of beguiling imagery and manages to maintain the sense of an alluring spectacle even as the action relocates to the clustered confines of a busy court room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbrCmRsCs0502YBcQhiVerC3teGGwMZgx6irhMkNNeb8H0RYKanVSAUvASv-35buSFlJYpdyJS0gijeGqcwHpmeeXqLBKg-ePlneNycJ0-OIbYv7RSXT18kh9fKmaRQ30IUOVnIO5UmQ/s1600/the+seventh+juror+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbrCmRsCs0502YBcQhiVerC3teGGwMZgx6irhMkNNeb8H0RYKanVSAUvASv-35buSFlJYpdyJS0gijeGqcwHpmeeXqLBKg-ePlneNycJ0-OIbYv7RSXT18kh9fKmaRQ30IUOVnIO5UmQ/s320/the+seventh+juror+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>As the courtoom fills with each passing day, Duval grows in confidence and Blier's portrayal of the killer as a cold and lifeless soul - who is nevertheless driven and determined when it comes to dissecting the finer details of the case - is nothing short of astonishing. Blier is superb at masking his character's emotions, so much so that it is unlikely we would ascertain Duval's true intentions were we not privy to his deepest admissions. No-one suspects that Duval could be culpable of such a crime and he even begins to revel in proving the judge and defending lawyer to be wrong - using his inside knowledge of the incident to gain favour in the court. </div>
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It is said that the killer always returns to the scene of the crime and in one striking scene <br />
Duval invites the whole court room to reassemble by the lakeside, as he is emboldened by the direction of the court's proceedings. Inventive flourishes in the storytelling such as this establish The Seventh Juror as an incredibly compelling film that is primarily a dark crime thriller but occasionally flirts with elements of black comedy when you least expect it. The waves of disbelief that greet Duval as he tries to atone for his sins only exacerbate his downward spiral, yet he remains predominantly calm and composed on the outside. We begin to suspect that it is only a matter of time before he puts a foot out of place and there is a wicked sense of glee in anticipating whether this moment will ever arrive.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64jMMg20QywnXHmHNM2XF8AG3adln3XMjmxCW3Ccsknuz1oDZC-HX1SxlqvHoO3uUv0TImU1euKIXrurJnT71TjUHZedsRqu80iPfcwxJ745nAK315j2pYjGfs9mOhrc8O5dR9QXhU_w/s1600/the+seventh+juror+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="650" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64jMMg20QywnXHmHNM2XF8AG3adln3XMjmxCW3Ccsknuz1oDZC-HX1SxlqvHoO3uUv0TImU1euKIXrurJnT71TjUHZedsRqu80iPfcwxJ745nAK315j2pYjGfs9mOhrc8O5dR9QXhU_w/s320/the+seventh+juror+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Religious symbolism plays a powerful part in the storytelling (Duval's bed even has a sculpture of Mary hanging over it) and there is an evocative callback during Duval's visit to a church when he gazes upon a statue of Christ in a pose that bears an uncanny similarity to the frightful position of the lifeless body of the woman he strangled by the lakeside. Moments like this demonstrate that the protagonist is wrestling with his conscience and struggling to escape from the guilt that consumes him, a factor that makes his character so fascinating to watch, especially when his wife's admiration for the invaluable contributions he makes in court begins to shift to suspicion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDow_0VYjSsvevmufRGDUNcoqF9jfyTkgh-2ZjBAyCqkcdqKmDOv5FsVDdxWlikx3mflxMUG-188rjR4NtVECTxxJga2_eNARw78hX37QisevPm7ayDdK2VAhaFAAJPm9aqGgsUS67pV4/s1600/the+seventh+juror+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="582" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDow_0VYjSsvevmufRGDUNcoqF9jfyTkgh-2ZjBAyCqkcdqKmDOv5FsVDdxWlikx3mflxMUG-188rjR4NtVECTxxJga2_eNARw78hX37QisevPm7ayDdK2VAhaFAAJPm9aqGgsUS67pV4/s320/the+seventh+juror+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>Director Georges Lautner has crafted a remarkable crime film and it is difficult to fathom why such amasterful work of art has slipped into relative obscurity. Perhaps this stark portrayal of an impulsive murderer was ahead of its time as The Seventh Juror has lost none of its power to shock and astound the viewer, particularly when the crescendo of revelations towards the finale leaves you emotionally drained and exasperated. As well as being capable of impacting the viewer on a visceral and emotional level, The Seventh Juror is undeniably engaging due to a sublime central performance from Blier and sumptuous visuals that elevate this courtroom drama to the realm of an unforgettably haunting psychological thriller.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Seventh Juror then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVy2q8mLCAw" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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</span></span>Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-83772390397329161732020-08-08T10:34:00.000+01:002020-08-08T10:34:35.590+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 65. Dead Dicks<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnX88vUBc6bDQxwE4qwZJn_fln6qP3Z40FnEK_UdI5AdSvnSzGHxLS-lhzVxzCAq8RrTMhsJDoY25xvFwuPRWrfHIrOdTaWsKXfPVkV4TOtZrKwfrVDLFfo_u4ZLYSfRQY3mhcMazqc0/s1600/dead+dicks+poster.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnX88vUBc6bDQxwE4qwZJn_fln6qP3Z40FnEK_UdI5AdSvnSzGHxLS-lhzVxzCAq8RrTMhsJDoY25xvFwuPRWrfHIrOdTaWsKXfPVkV4TOtZrKwfrVDLFfo_u4ZLYSfRQY3mhcMazqc0/s320/dead+dicks+poster.jpg" width="314" /></a><br />
<b>Dead Dicks</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Chris Bavota/Lee Paula Springer</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Canada</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2019</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 83 minutes</span><br />
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When a film takes an absurd but intriguing science-fiction concept and transforms it into a profound parable on suicide and depression, you know you are in for a unique viewing experience. The tongue-in-cheek title of Dead Dicks suggests we are embarking on a somewhat puerile encounter but the sinister opening sequence is indicative of the dark recesses this thought-provoking horror visits. We are introduced to the suicidal slacker Richie (Heston Horwin) when his anxious sister Becca (Jillian Harris) visits his flat - concerned that she can't reach him on his phone. Accosted by Richie's understandably angry downstairs neighbour Matt (Matt Keyes) on the way up to his flat, Becca apologises for the disturbingly loud music emanating from her brother's apartment before heading upstairs where she finds Richie's lifeless body.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTf6g1COgKKDnYbbY7BLWpIMm037qUSfKr0WzaQFLOKxzt3gJiBi_f77DBQmE7ITlPnTeAMLVm-QKFtxe7e_xcwXK76q1u7Z_3jqZ9eJ-dWY7PtQqQwUpIvdagQtQedmqviZ4DwGW3Nw/s1600/dead+dicks+3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1600" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTf6g1COgKKDnYbbY7BLWpIMm037qUSfKr0WzaQFLOKxzt3gJiBi_f77DBQmE7ITlPnTeAMLVm-QKFtxe7e_xcwXK76q1u7Z_3jqZ9eJ-dWY7PtQqQwUpIvdagQtQedmqviZ4DwGW3Nw/s320/dead+dicks+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In the first of many thrilling revelations it transpires that Richie is still alive and believes that when he took his own life he was reborn out of a huge mysterious crack that has appeared in his bedroom wall. Thus begins an unsettling exploration into a fractured human psyche that traverses a broad range of elements from macabre black comedy to visceral body horror. Richie and Becca's attempts to understand the bizarre situation they find themselves in go awry when Matt enters the fray once more and disturbs the strange symbiotic connection Richie has to the hole in his wall.</div>
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Horwin is sublime in his performance as the titular 'Dick', expressing the weight of his character's depression by demonstrating a morbid acceptance of the peculiar circumstances of Richie's inability to die. Whilst Richie embraces the horrific scenario, Becca is fearful of the consequences of toying with fate and Harris emphasises this aspect of Becca's anxiety with a passionate performance as her character struggles to come to terms with the strange situation. The film's success hinges largely on the performances of its cast and they sell the outlandish idea behind Dead Dicks with a conviction that enables you to look past the constraints of a limited budget to appreciate the raw passion and energy that has been harnessed by the film-makers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlQMmiwBGOOXJlzBJBvEZJtMqaP9gPzsjoo82m4zvHtYC92okUR6XyMOIpeR5TAEh6LAIm_7MB18Km9WN7bNWPMEtCLUIb7phrNDiy3O2YbShpZKyDqxcl2OGVR4NZL0cNEwBWblKtRY/s1600/dead+dicks+4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlQMmiwBGOOXJlzBJBvEZJtMqaP9gPzsjoo82m4zvHtYC92okUR6XyMOIpeR5TAEh6LAIm_7MB18Km9WN7bNWPMEtCLUIb7phrNDiy3O2YbShpZKyDqxcl2OGVR4NZL0cNEwBWblKtRY/s320/dead+dicks+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>Credit is due to the practical effects team whose creative approach to depicting the film's elements of body horror would feel at home in any of David Cronenberg's earlier features. The grotesque, palpitating, cocoon like objects that emerge from the unsightly slit in Richie's wall are all too real, and the nightmarish sequences in which he bursts out of these gooey containers provoke feelings of disgust and curiosity in equal measure. It is the imposing crack on the wall though that really steals the show, particularly when Richie and Becca argue over its appearance, undecided on whether it is closer in form to resembling female genitalia or a massive arsehole.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBw_RHBb75XgQ5aIKPnGNaiqxy9ooTmsgE_i4NyGoTOPGynB2cNONS8RcL51bAeIQVhcPFxk5LY3g7COTQu2IAtgtHvGe_gXk7m5sddhzHS03fVo0jCvfghfP83PrK5y2jPUjOlrjP_Q/s1600/dead+dicks+1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="1024" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBw_RHBb75XgQ5aIKPnGNaiqxy9ooTmsgE_i4NyGoTOPGynB2cNONS8RcL51bAeIQVhcPFxk5LY3g7COTQu2IAtgtHvGe_gXk7m5sddhzHS03fVo0jCvfghfP83PrK5y2jPUjOlrjP_Q/s320/dead+dicks+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As Richie experiments with a multitude of suicide attempts the body count begins to stack up and Becca is reluctantly forced into dismembering and disposing of his corpses. The ordeal of carving up not just one but several lifeless bodies, all of which belong to your brother, is a horrific notion although it is played primarily for laughs in Dead Dicks, alleviating the sombre mood to prevent the film's atmosphere becoming to oppressive and disturbing. This morbid humour is pitch perfect throughout, treading carefully around the sensitive subject of suicide to deliver laughs that revolve around Richie's compromising situation. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RTlh3yX5NZIhbqjZ-uE2xii9-KG8vuR696rd7-KVmqQnjThCsmLFlMnY_VHIp-VUCaVD-WaZ2RPOTnqRz9X8zPvv_uEIi3vQymHi80YM1LfUAxGPNzsuYTQou_kn299CfpWbhQMWEH4/s1600/dead+dicks+2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="1000" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RTlh3yX5NZIhbqjZ-uE2xii9-KG8vuR696rd7-KVmqQnjThCsmLFlMnY_VHIp-VUCaVD-WaZ2RPOTnqRz9X8zPvv_uEIi3vQymHi80YM1LfUAxGPNzsuYTQou_kn299CfpWbhQMWEH4/s320/dead+dicks+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Dead Dicks succeeds not only as a bizarre and funny sci-fi horror but as a thought-provoking piece on suicide and depression. Like the best genre films it explores the heavy themes surrounding a topic that could sadly be relatable for many viewers. Through incorporating elements of their own experiences into this brilliantly realised black comedy, the film's talented writers and Directors, Chris Bavota and Lee Paula Springer, have exposed their innermost feelings in an honest and open admission that will speak volumes to those who connect with Dead Dicks on a personal level, as well as entertaining the hell out of those who are simply looking for a wild and unforgettable ride into the unknown.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Dead Dicks then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4SN8zUOV8B4" width="320"></iframe><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-77428037446381627812020-08-02T11:15:00.001+01:002020-08-02T11:15:09.475+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 64. Il Sorpasso<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<i style="text-align: justify;"><br /></i>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUyecxp1J8CyUzVYQj5yVh7vnFXackDtSZTy_xyGrSbZ8VNEHwDdFsmDbCjSDlzkNJ3NDz1dyzGAcLA-D3sO4Q3qAEvWev20ByjuapC7d8YKK8c7t-WlAZ4ThMQbUr_HWwIyFF46N3D8/s1600/Il+Sorpasso+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1288" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUyecxp1J8CyUzVYQj5yVh7vnFXackDtSZTy_xyGrSbZ8VNEHwDdFsmDbCjSDlzkNJ3NDz1dyzGAcLA-D3sO4Q3qAEvWev20ByjuapC7d8YKK8c7t-WlAZ4ThMQbUr_HWwIyFF46N3D8/s320/Il+Sorpasso+Poster.jpg" width="257" /></a><br />
<b>Il Sorpasso</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Dino Risi</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Italy</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1962</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 108 minutes</span><br />
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Il Sorpasso is a sublime Italian road movie about an unlikely friendship that blossoms between a liberal man, Bruno, and a conservative law student, Roberto, after a chance encounter in Rome. Bruno drives a stylish convertible and stops to ask Roberto for the use of his phone when he spies him taking in the scenery from his fourth floor apartment window. At first Roberto is reluctant to abandon his studies but Bruno convinces him to join him for a wild road trip involving drink, food, and alluring women, where they both learn a lot about themselves and each other.<br />
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Dino Risi's charming comedy takes you on an enchanting tour of Rome and the surrounding area as Bruno leads the charge with his charismatic personality that enables him to talk the pair out of almost any trouble they encounter on their journey. The stunning historic architecture of the city and the scenic vistas of the countryside roads act as a delightful backdrop which Risi exploits to its full potential, painting a magical picture of an enticing part of Italy. This vivid imagery ensures that Bruno's aimless adventure with Roberto is a journey that any audience would love to be a part of; if not for the wonderful company, then the beautiful views would surely be enough to convince you to go along for the ride.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdfOtCMGZfFNAGQXwS7HmAMgvroBisPMqCbIROPfhwMw349VhVfW07TRuTaGGmjW4C_mD5DOEBiG7vRUuBJY7bDcgwn3Q4G8sHTH7E6F3yohTu5t72QBn7UFDM_NKZzNRIXQV3ceAIL0/s1600/Il+Sorpasso+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="1600" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdfOtCMGZfFNAGQXwS7HmAMgvroBisPMqCbIROPfhwMw349VhVfW07TRuTaGGmjW4C_mD5DOEBiG7vRUuBJY7bDcgwn3Q4G8sHTH7E6F3yohTu5t72QBn7UFDM_NKZzNRIXQV3ceAIL0/s320/Il+Sorpasso+2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Roberto is initially convinced to join Bruno for a short trip but as the day progresses Roberto's introverted and polite nature makes it increasingly difficult for him to conjure up an acceptable reason for parting from Bruno. Their road trip becomes more decadent as the day draws to an end and we are exposed to Roberto's inner monologue as he wonders how he became embroiled in such a madcap adventure. Bruno is of course the sole reason for this situation and Vittorio Gassman, who tackles the role of this mischievous rogue, brings an irresistible charm to the character, even when he is insulting those he meets. Jean-Louis Trintignant is suitably reserved in his role as Roberto; providing a fresh challenge for Bruno when he endeavours to bring him out of his shell, and embodying the performance with a genuine curiosity that unfurls as Roberto becomes more comfortable in Bruno's often overbearing presence.<br />
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Their contrasting personalities and outlooks on life lead to a number of fascinating conversations as the two traverse the roads of Italy, with Bruno honking his horn and overtaking every vehicle in sight. Il Sorpasso translates as either the passing or the overtaking and, whilst on the surface it can be inferred as a description of Bruno's dangerous driving, it is clearly a commentary on the boom in the post-war Italian economy in the fifties and sixties. Agriculture and tradition was making way for commerce and consumerism and Bruno embraces this change wholeheartedly despite the detrimental impact it has on certain aspects of his life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyN9vzTKoVEzaAzjZ-hLDlCkCoO39orfrIxFjXy6GKJSDGjC_OQxTTtaFvAPpZaMzz2RkJxIiDM7ynRr5ua2pne-zetOC_7fomsYjVy4U4YSalXmfRloOMe6cE6nh3VKURaWR5joDuQ8/s1600/Il+Sorpasso+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1280" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyN9vzTKoVEzaAzjZ-hLDlCkCoO39orfrIxFjXy6GKJSDGjC_OQxTTtaFvAPpZaMzz2RkJxIiDM7ynRr5ua2pne-zetOC_7fomsYjVy4U4YSalXmfRloOMe6cE6nh3VKURaWR5joDuQ8/s320/Il+Sorpasso+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Comparisons can be made to Frank Perry's The Swimmer, in which the titular, charismatic character embarks on a fun but frenzied journey home whilst struggling to maintain the facade that everything is fine underneath the surface. It is not clear if Bruno even has a home but as we learn more about him on his journey we understand his motivations and realise he is grappling with personal demons the only way he knows how - by pushing them to one side and indulging his inner child. This child-like, free-spirited nature can be interpreted as an attractive character trait by those who only have a brief dalliance with individuals living in such a manner. However, the cracks begin to show as Bruno's wild adventure drags on through the night and into the next day.<br />
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The swinging sixties appear to be in full force as the pair indulge in copious amounts of alcohol and hop from one location to the next in Bruno's aimless search for further distractions from a reality he would rather forget. As Roberto and Bruno visit bars, beaches, and restaurants, we are treated to a rocking, evocative, sixties soundtrack that enhances the playful nature of Bruno's cheeky interactions with the multitude of ladies he encounters. It is unsurprising that Roberto's quiet and shy nature receives just as much attention from the opposite sex; those deterred by Bruno's brashness find Roberto's presence appealing, even if he struggles to make any reciprocated feelings known.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ww2kckXxWoxfGrNbnTDPIlsZ0miGKvcBwqiJdxwDsQGr3pb-JgxNiua12cpgWZW90JQfLCdvuCgPg9Xchs2INL_3oBWpoMBi9TZUWDutLJiiXH-NKfmeOvhDJyu5WqtUQddxh2e7LOI/s1600/Il+Sorpasso+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Ww2kckXxWoxfGrNbnTDPIlsZ0miGKvcBwqiJdxwDsQGr3pb-JgxNiua12cpgWZW90JQfLCdvuCgPg9Xchs2INL_3oBWpoMBi9TZUWDutLJiiXH-NKfmeOvhDJyu5WqtUQddxh2e7LOI/s320/Il+Sorpasso+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It is not until the third part of the film that we are introduced to any female characters with more than a passing appearance, and the introduction of a mother and daughter - Gianna (Luciana Angiolillo) and Lilli (Catherine Spaak) - throws a dramatic curve ball into the scenario. Spaak is exceptional as the enchanting Lilli, with a suitor old enough to be considered her grandfather, which Bruno obviously points out, time and time again, as per his usual persistent yet playful mockery. Her vibrant and excitable personality belies a strong-willed teenager who is wise beyond her years and appears to be far more mature than Bruno. Bruno is clinging on to his youth but Lilli is embracing her adulthood, and this realisation comes as a tough notion to digest for our plucky protagonist.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLOrPhyphenhyphenEFh9kDo-nWd_2r3qoXlVw9JwnrhittLpUY2p6YBnzxFRFGfzu3LiflDSy3Y0y3e54btNaOMKIMKEbz4lILaovdWBh6yee8DS0ooxKQDgq3dfttgNJBy40nqxk0Tl-r2-nSKjo/s1600/Il+Sorpasso+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="650" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLOrPhyphenhyphenEFh9kDo-nWd_2r3qoXlVw9JwnrhittLpUY2p6YBnzxFRFGfzu3LiflDSy3Y0y3e54btNaOMKIMKEbz4lILaovdWBh6yee8DS0ooxKQDgq3dfttgNJBy40nqxk0Tl-r2-nSKjo/s320/Il+Sorpasso+3.jpg" width="320" /></a>Like many great comedies, there is a tragic undercurrent to Il Sorpasso that adds depth to its humour as the senseless decadence reaches a heartstopping climax. Risi has crafted a funny and dramatic time capsule of a fascinating part of Italian society during the sixties, in a film that will linger on in your memory with the passing of time, even if the era it depicts will now be just a distant recollection for anyone who would have experienced it first hand. This is an accomplished piece of art that showcases the wit and acute cultural awareness of Risi and is a fitting testament to his exemplary contribution to the world of cinema.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Il Sorpasso then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-1511299405162281672020-08-01T11:42:00.002+01:002020-08-01T11:44:23.673+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 63. Ballad of a Soldier<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAuC-HGMtluzovdgKAVXI4S7RBo3bf9OqdWwRhS7h7jh_9vsfC_ZzhOn8CCSaHpVMDf9s_PDUWjeFN_2o59wj9ZsSnjdDsbXND15vH557kosibymy6fCBZbsA8349IU1YFgIzsgV87E0/s1600/ballad+of+a+soldier+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1288" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAuC-HGMtluzovdgKAVXI4S7RBo3bf9OqdWwRhS7h7jh_9vsfC_ZzhOn8CCSaHpVMDf9s_PDUWjeFN_2o59wj9ZsSnjdDsbXND15vH557kosibymy6fCBZbsA8349IU1YFgIzsgV87E0/s320/ballad+of+a+soldier+poster.jpg" width="257" /></a><b>Ballad of a Soldier</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">Director - </b>Grigoriy Chukhrai<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Soviet Union</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>- </b>1956</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 88 minutes</span><br />
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Ballad of a Soldier begins with a rousing prologue in which a lonely woman wanders through an empty village and gazes longingly across the surrounding meadows. A narrator informs us that she is waiting for the return of her nineteen year old son, Alyosha, who was drafted into the army and is one of many brave soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Thus begins the stirring story of Alyosha's life that is unknown to his mother, as we join him at the Russian front where he is under attack from German tanks. His courageous actions in battle lead to two tanks being destroyed and his sergeant rewards him by relieving Alyosha of his duty for six days. This leaves just enough time for him to return to his village so he can help his mother repair her leaking roof - an exclamation that leaves the other members of his unit in stitches.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ARBiA3cgMpcZduUWV6tuJq_w9mNlRj5uOBNkTjENO9ARCtUJnL3ZetDTEg-Ya7j2nQJbYMgbTO6Jq8xqeuTw0F9052wc3db3BoGr4qjt9UjkmZhEGdA2rhmGYTQH45Ctz9EBLNml5Mk/s1600/ballad+of+a+soldier+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ARBiA3cgMpcZduUWV6tuJq_w9mNlRj5uOBNkTjENO9ARCtUJnL3ZetDTEg-Ya7j2nQJbYMgbTO6Jq8xqeuTw0F9052wc3db3BoGr4qjt9UjkmZhEGdA2rhmGYTQH45Ctz9EBLNml5Mk/s320/ballad+of+a+soldier+2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
It is during this eventful journey that Alyosha encounters a handful of strangers affected by the war in various ways. He strikes up a companionship with a wounded soldier, Vasya, and later on befriends a young lady, Shura. His compassion and kindness lead to Alyosha delaying his own plans to ensure that those he meets are taken care of and reach their destinations safely. These selfless actions inspire us with hope in the kindness of strangers yet also fill us with sadness as the knowledge that Alyosha doesn't survive his wartime experiences looms over us.<br />
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Director Grigori Chukhrai has captured the devastation and heartache of a country in turmoil through the telling of an enchanting storyline in a visually arresting manner. The camera sweeps across the action with an unnatural grace as mesmerising set pieces hold your gaze fast. A dramatic soundtrack accompanies the picture with a recurring motif that tugs on your heartstrings and heightens the emotional impact of Alyosha's fateful journey. This is the work of a masterful film-maker who has crafted a visceral and moving picture that resonates deeply as its aching poignancy grips hold of you firmly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTM9W0hp76krn4xpSPjPazBkt4mTq5ROLRrUvpaQtDnXo_XIN4TL2yP_lFg4xPHE2dxm1QaFLsYxjpIYLdCanKHU-wpjrucQHkC1IhzTYKy7pIBwP8dAb6oX9TcP4h4GAiNUmP00Z4VU/s1600/ballad+of+a+soldier+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTM9W0hp76krn4xpSPjPazBkt4mTq5ROLRrUvpaQtDnXo_XIN4TL2yP_lFg4xPHE2dxm1QaFLsYxjpIYLdCanKHU-wpjrucQHkC1IhzTYKy7pIBwP8dAb6oX9TcP4h4GAiNUmP00Z4VU/s320/ballad+of+a+soldier+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Alyosha is depicted as an innocent soul and Vladimir Ivashov's youthful good looks and irresistible charm made him the perfect actor for this role. He imbues his character with a kind-hearted persona that encourages almost everyone (except for a mean-spirited train guard) to succumb to Alyosha's charms.We are instantly impressed by his bravery and enamoured by his humble nature; his touching request to visit his mother in place of receiving a medal of honour impresses upon us that which he holds dearest to him. As the film progresses he continues to astound us with his selfless exploits, and this makes the emotional aspect of the film hit harder as we are so invested in his plight.<br />
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The cathartic journey our hero embarks upon offers a poignant and revealing insight into the horrors of war, without ever having to show any graphic injuries or shocking deaths. Dazzling scenes involving double exposure conjure up memories of regret as Alyosha bids a fond farewell to a dear friend. This striking technique is also used during the aftermath of a bombing run on a train, where Alyosha fights to pull injured children out of carriages engulfed in fire. Alongside these technically impressive sequences, Chukhrai employs imaginative methods of bringing his sets to life such as tracing the bubbles blown by two young boys as they glide down a stairwell into the path of his protagonists. Evocative imagery like this is present in many of the film's scenes, creating a memorable and magical viewing experience despite the bleak and upsetting scenario we are exposed to.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3cegYVeCtw17kfB_Ke4OXr_9NW3xt8-SWs81zhUd75g3Y6cdonRDeD25dxBFnjIEHsXZPJ71E7J5ISVlLtTHmI3fsCP7d-VvJ2xp8OTscEwwEsGDfbS1w8g326I61tyZgicg0ePNegE/s1600/ballad+of+a+soldier+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="171" data-original-width="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3cegYVeCtw17kfB_Ke4OXr_9NW3xt8-SWs81zhUd75g3Y6cdonRDeD25dxBFnjIEHsXZPJ71E7J5ISVlLtTHmI3fsCP7d-VvJ2xp8OTscEwwEsGDfbS1w8g326I61tyZgicg0ePNegE/s1600/ballad+of+a+soldier+4.jpg" /></a></div>
At its heart, Ballad of a Soldier is a patriotic call to arms, a reason for the Soviet Union to be proud of the sacrifices made by their courageous soldiers during the war. However, its universal themes of regret, the loss of innocence and the unconditional love between a mother and her son still have the power to connect with audiences of all cultural backgrounds. This is a tragic but life-affirming film; a sublime work of art that transcends its cinematic medium by reaching out to its audience and invoking spine-tingling sensations as it inches ever closer to its heartstopping climax.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Ballad of a Soldier then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-24265333240572838092020-04-28T14:12:00.000+01:002020-04-28T14:12:00.040+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 62. Interrogation<div style="border: 0px; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: start;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOm_cnHGAR1JyHeBBefu93aEqfZ6rOV5yjkm38BPxmIb7e6xbHKzDuVVwS0c96gdwL0FZsOFn9MywSbaMTkzq8HxG2DlOVK32xrjftoDEa0yIyicYzXd9zZcj1p5S7zeiX8FT3lwV6rE/s1600/interrogation+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOm_cnHGAR1JyHeBBefu93aEqfZ6rOV5yjkm38BPxmIb7e6xbHKzDuVVwS0c96gdwL0FZsOFn9MywSbaMTkzq8HxG2DlOVK32xrjftoDEa0yIyicYzXd9zZcj1p5S7zeiX8FT3lwV6rE/s320/interrogation+poster.jpg" width="224" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Interrogation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Director – </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ryszard Bugajski</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Country - </b>Poland<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Year - </b>1989</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Runtime - </b>118 minutes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Films that make powerful political statements
about the ruling authorities of the countries where they are made can fall foul
of censorship or even be banned outright. <i>Interrogation</i> is one such
provocative picture that became a political prisoner in its native Poland and
was banned for its bold stance against the communist party and their extreme
methods of probing those suspected of working against the state. Although this
bleak and potent tale of a woman caught up in the horrific communist prison
system was completed in 1982, it was not made widely available until 1989
following the dissolution of the communist party in Poland. Its harrowing
subject matter paints a deeply disturbing view of a country in political
turmoil after WW2 and it comes as no surprise that the graphic and troubling
content caused such a stir with the authorities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Krystyna Janda takes on the lead role of Tonia,
a cabaret performer who is kidnapped and imprisoned by two charming men who
take her out drinking after she argues with her husband during a show. Tonia’s
confusion at being imprisoned turns to frustration and then total
disillusionment as the severity of the situation sinks in. Janda’s dedicated
performance is a phenomenal piece of acting that showcases the devastating
effects caused by the years of abuse and suffering Tonia endures at the hands
of her captors. Both the violent methods of torture and the psychological games
that are thrust upon Tonia weigh heavy on her soul and Janda evokes her
character’s distress with an unsettling realism as the never-ending torment
shatters her spirit.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The two officers responsible for dishing out the
barrage of cruel mind games are depicted as insensitive and abhorrent men. They
offer Tonia brief moments of respite and kindness only to then withdraw back
into their interrogation methods; providing her with a glimmer of hope only to
subsequently snatch it away from her grasp. Through this interrogation we learn
of the tenuous reason behind Tonia’s incarceration and this highlights how
almost anyone living in Poland during the era represented could have been
considered a suspect of conspiring against the state if the powers that be
deemed them so. This is depicted by the scores of women in a similar
predicament to Tonia who crack under the mental strain and confess to made up
crimes in the hope of easing the abuse from their captors.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This depressing and horrific journey through a
hellish prison system is a visceral and challenging experience for any viewer.
Constant screams and moans litter the background along with disturbing pleas
for help and cries of pain that crush your tolerance for the relentless
brutality and humiliating punishments that are shown on screen. These political
prisoners are accused of crimes against the state, but the guards are punishing
them with crimes against humanity; using debasing methods of torture that
should have been confined to the bowels of history a long time ago. The never-ending
barrage of misery is a tough notion to digest and is likely to leave you as
exhausted and drained as those suffering at the hands of the evil oppressors
who drive this twisted regime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">By exposing the atrocious conditions and the
inhumane treatment people were subject to during this </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">troubled time in Poland’s
history, Director Ryszard Bugajski, took an incredibly bold risk to deliver his
damning indictment of the Stalinist Pro-Soviet regime and their extreme
interrogation methods. His heart stopping film slams the actions of those
involved so hard you can imagine there would have been a public outcry had this
been released when the communist party were still in power. The chilling
statement his film makes becomes even more disturbing when the devastating
denouement shows the psychological damage has also taken its toll on the
officers in charge of the interrogation. The extremity of the situation tears
apart the lives of people on either side of the fence in what amounts to a
tragic waste of human life.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is difficult to sway the sweeping anger that
stirs inside when watching </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">Interrogation</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">. The overwhelming sense of
injustice and disbelief at the abject inhumanity rouses up like the unstoppable
wave of panic and fear that grips Tonia and leaves her in an almost catatonic
state. Few films are capable of drumming up such fierce reactions in the viewer
but Bugajski pushes and provokes us relentlessly in his visceral demonstration
of suffering that is intended to act as a stark warning on the abuse of power.
Those who endure the entire ordeal will emerge scarred and broken, reeling from
the savage impact of this remarkable film. Its raw power is a testament to
Bugajski’s talent as a Director and the phenomenal display of acting prowess he
coaxed from his leading lady is the performance of a lifetime. Take heed if
watching this film; its crushing misery will remain with you forever, but this
is one of the reasons why</span><i style="font-family: inherit;"> Interrogation</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is such an important landmark in
the fascinating landscape of Polish cinema.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Interrogation then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-58741419277183096962019-11-21T21:54:00.001+00:002019-11-21T21:56:16.968+00:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 61. The Saragossa Manuscript<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidk3QWzmSL9jQFv1QBPvVPnaqgy-uOpo1kCYrHW-mm28TVW0gYiYXy1RdNlHke1RfvU915JTTOWjx1LRCccaDWA2vgsd6bCJmSnEGm96YbcdYosfBMKjFfynjb8Xs926fuvIofT5jJLSE/s1600/saragossa+manuscript+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="662" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidk3QWzmSL9jQFv1QBPvVPnaqgy-uOpo1kCYrHW-mm28TVW0gYiYXy1RdNlHke1RfvU915JTTOWjx1LRCccaDWA2vgsd6bCJmSnEGm96YbcdYosfBMKjFfynjb8Xs926fuvIofT5jJLSE/s320/saragossa+manuscript+poster.jpg" width="225" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The Saragossa
Manuscript</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">Director – </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wojciech Has</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Country - </b>Poland<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Year - </b>1965<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Runtime - </b>185
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Extravagant and intricate storytelling awaits anyone who delves into Wojciech Has' decadent three-hour opus The Saragossa Manuscript. Has plunges us through surreal, macabre and sensual tales where we meet a vast array of fascinating characters such as bandits, cabalists, sultans and temptresses; many of whom are gifted in the art of recounting enchanting anecdotes. This enthralling fantasy features multiple subplots that are intertwined with a startling dexterity as each narrator encounters other characters who are fond of regaling all and sundry with their exploits, thus opening up a Russian doll like experience as we delve deeper into the unknown until the storylines begin to loop back upon one another.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-dYJsbX3CTWFoIagBFjloCSMnbZ3AybGOUGQKwFNde4gp2ss5NHpXtwU8B7vJ5peAgw_2S8qq3fwnDb1Bm6mqE5A7rHWINO9rtAlPozOnrKDk65FE2JGSkrHoLfgrl1HNuoy1nB5QJw/s1600/saragossa+manuscript+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="550" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-dYJsbX3CTWFoIagBFjloCSMnbZ3AybGOUGQKwFNde4gp2ss5NHpXtwU8B7vJ5peAgw_2S8qq3fwnDb1Bm6mqE5A7rHWINO9rtAlPozOnrKDk65FE2JGSkrHoLfgrl1HNuoy1nB5QJw/s320/saragossa+manuscript+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A rousing rendition of Ode to Joy greets us as the atmospheric opening credits part to leave us with a view of Spanish soldiers embroiled in a battle on the outskirts of a town in ruins. One of these soldiers flees to the safety of a nearby house and chances upon an enticing manuscript that distracts his attention from the carnage outside. He is joined by an enemy soldier who is likewise hypnotised by its striking illustrations and their differences are cast aside when the second soldier begins to read aloud a story contained within that happens to be an account of his father’s life, Captain Alfonso van Worden. We are then thrust headfirst into the central storyline about Alfonso where further diversions continue to be presented in a similar manner and the narration takes us through an engaging odyssey of adventures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp20KUS7FVmFu-6cCerUeUUqnQn-5pLfxNakUOsS2rtIQOb3-H72JzoU-lPHL-oGXTineJh6FB_7YxKtotzN-DxZrBQkK_D7Wu5ltMKtsHLHBAUVU4dftpD8_tXZ46n6dKE_FF0TxHXY/s1600/saragossa+manuscript+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="822" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp20KUS7FVmFu-6cCerUeUUqnQn-5pLfxNakUOsS2rtIQOb3-H72JzoU-lPHL-oGXTineJh6FB_7YxKtotzN-DxZrBQkK_D7Wu5ltMKtsHLHBAUVU4dftpD8_tXZ46n6dKE_FF0TxHXY/s320/saragossa+manuscript+3.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Strange, ethereal noises accompany scenes in which the primary protagonist comes under affray from supernatural beings. These otherworldly tones foreshadow the mischievous nature of the spirits he encounters, as they play cruel tricks that test his integrity of character. The dreamlike visions he experiences leave us as confused as Alfonso wrestles with his blurred perception of reality, uncertain if his waking life has been distorted by powers beyond our comprehension. The spellbinding imagery of these eerie sequences evokes a similar ambience to the fantastical delights of Cocteau's classics Orphée and La Belle et la Bête; entrancing us with hypnotic visuals befitting of a dark fairy-tale.</div>
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As we enter the second half of the story, we move away from elements of fantasy and encounter rich merchants and noblemen who vie for the attention of alluring young ladies as charismatic rogues manipulate their dalliances in the pursuit of coin. The story appears to tumble further and further down into a seemingly inescapable rabbit hole, and it is bewildering but exciting to imagine how the film's loose ends will all come full circle. Repeat viewings are recommended as some characters have story arcs that begin before they are even introduced as they make brief, subtle appearances in the segments that precede their own. This doesn't hinder the enjoyment of the picture on first viewing but instead enriches the experience for those who are willing to explore the intricate labyrinth of subplots that leads us to consider the intelligent design of this philosophical puzzle.</div>
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The vast scale of this undertaking is awe-inspiring with labyrinthine levels of detail, the likes of which you may have seen in ambitious works such as the Wachowski's epic science fiction film, Cloud Atlas, or in the surreal philosophical leanings of Chilean film-maker Raoul Ruiz's mystical oeuvre. As is the case with the aforementioned works, The Saragossa Manuscript is a thought-provoking film that demands your full attention but the treasure chest of delights that are unearthed along the journey are more than worth your unwavering gaze.</div>
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In less capable hands this storytelling technique could easily leave us disoriented and confused but Has conjures up such evocative imagery and brilliantly realised characterisations and this enable the separate strands to remain distinctive and easily identifiable. One of his characters even exclaims that the key to great storytelling is in the art of suspense, and this notion is used throughout as Has often leaves us hanging in anticipation when traversing between narrators. Playful self-referential shenanigans such as this off-hand remark imbue Has' film with a wit that complements the surreal humour and shows daring as his wild ideas bring flavour to the film in an innovative and enthralling manner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVrXFf1v2ET4Eh5WWKjXTjfsh6g6GOR6sc5VKpZUdamg5lialG9K055FkGxUFeA12Nc2IZVz5IlStvnMHiAluo_e2kPBxN0nA6lQuL1F4lYT-rXSTSDk674DwePva4xCTRiaSXzKQhKI/s1600/saragossa+manuscript+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="622" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVrXFf1v2ET4Eh5WWKjXTjfsh6g6GOR6sc5VKpZUdamg5lialG9K055FkGxUFeA12Nc2IZVz5IlStvnMHiAluo_e2kPBxN0nA6lQuL1F4lYT-rXSTSDk674DwePva4xCTRiaSXzKQhKI/s320/saragossa+manuscript+4.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Wojiech Has adapted the source material for The Saragossa Manuscript to the big screen with a real flair for theatrics and showmanship that utilises the tremendous talents of the actors who bring his version of the story to life with great aplomb. There are not many filmmakers who could conjure up such an accessible and satisfying head trip from a lengthy 18th Century novella and this is perhaps the reason why The Saragossa Manuscript remains a cult oddity without comparison. Anyone who is open to the surreal tendencies of Film Directors such as Jodorowsky or Buñuel will find themselves at home in Has' enticing oeuvre of films, with The Saragossa Manuscript standing out as the culmination of a lifetime devoted to the cinematic art of storytelling.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Saragossa Manuscript then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-32739773542249803432019-11-05T08:29:00.000+00:002019-11-21T21:57:22.590+00:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 60. A Special Day<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQgdBbbnH_jsM3V2H4TgSvojlw0XwrxVpjhyphenhyphen1AvPojFzax8lYUriN_RRZ6y1k2dftrx_S2y6-YLDBViazkJcu6hID3YujxldANP24b9AzYyRwCAcihnvbKSoVoMllU2p78ii7ujRTeTM/s1600/a+special+day+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1288" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQgdBbbnH_jsM3V2H4TgSvojlw0XwrxVpjhyphenhyphen1AvPojFzax8lYUriN_RRZ6y1k2dftrx_S2y6-YLDBViazkJcu6hID3YujxldANP24b9AzYyRwCAcihnvbKSoVoMllU2p78ii7ujRTeTM/s320/a+special+day+poster.jpg" width="257" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="font-family: inherit;">A
Special Day (Una Giornata Particolare)</strong></span></div>
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<strong style="font-family: inherit;">Director
– </strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">Ettore Scola</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Country</strong> - Italy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Year</strong> - 1977<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Runtime</strong> - 110 Minutes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On May 8th, 1938, Hitler visited Rome to meet with Mussolini and
strengthen the union between Germany and Italy as the rise of fascism was
taking hold of many parts of Europe. This was a special day for Italy and the
residents of Rome who attended a magnificent parade that served to swell the ever-burgeoning
national pride in the movement. For housewife and mother of six, Antonietta
(Sophia Loren), this day would prove to be an eye-opening experience - but not
for the reasons we may expect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After rousing her family from their slumber and sending them off
to watch the parade, Antonietta remains at home to work on a never-ending
barrage of chores whilst listening to the day's events on the radio. In a brief
moment of carelessness Antonietta leaves their pet bird's cage open and it
flutters out of a window into the apartment building's central courtyard. She
enlists the help of a neighbour, Gabriele (Marcello Mastroianni) - who seems to
be one of the only other people not at the parade - to assist in the bird’s
rescue. The two down beaten strangers find solace in each other's company and
spend most of this unforgettable day deliberating over their current stations
in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOb4tRTkKCRWk0VESXHtr1RcmgtKYjJH3SIj8AYJe-UyV_sTXShtnmNJvgeI3th1XITiJPfGzsBQKwUdyv19hCgiJtmSeEs9NM8VZP5-0fvlMQfByW-RZe-IwnXwvueWSmkaCvAuAIu4o/s1600/a+special+day+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="620" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOb4tRTkKCRWk0VESXHtr1RcmgtKYjJH3SIj8AYJe-UyV_sTXShtnmNJvgeI3th1XITiJPfGzsBQKwUdyv19hCgiJtmSeEs9NM8VZP5-0fvlMQfByW-RZe-IwnXwvueWSmkaCvAuAIu4o/s320/a+special+day+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ettore Scola's politically charged drama offers a scathing social
critique on the popular stance of the era it depicts through the amicable clash
of two people with opposing views. Both Gabriele and Antonietta are portrayed
as warm and tender individuals who share an instant connection, but this
friendship is tested when discussions turn to their perspectives on the current
state of their beloved Italy. Antonietta is the wife of a proud fascist and
although on the surface she appears apolitical, she takes an interest in her
husband's passion, creating scrap books filled with newspaper cuttings about
the political movement. When Gabriele peruses one of these books we learn that
he is a staunch opposer of the fascist regime, for personal reasons he is
reluctant to disclose, and it transpires that this outlook is one of the
reasons why Gabriele lost his job as a popular and successful radio presenter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6SrTVLgTHmGYuBRj78jDFxsIMxvbh4vyz20WIlfInbnvJKj0NyWji6n8SmQGIq_ocduDWFBTgJt0hI47zHSoabdWNBeRW-XGTYAWvoUKYeefU94rRZI4HFsFGV47L3oGgW0rwNSezPM/s1600/a+special+day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6SrTVLgTHmGYuBRj78jDFxsIMxvbh4vyz20WIlfInbnvJKj0NyWji6n8SmQGIq_ocduDWFBTgJt0hI47zHSoabdWNBeRW-XGTYAWvoUKYeefU94rRZI4HFsFGV47L3oGgW0rwNSezPM/s320/a+special+day+1.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As their conversations meander from friendly to flirtatious
interactions, and then to a revelatory expose on Italy's state of affairs, we
are drawn into the fascinating lives of Antonietta and Gabriele. You can sense
the longing for companionship from both characters; each have been pushed to
one side due to the proliferation of a dangerous political movement and they
have this in common, even if other aspects of their views are misaligned. This
simple premise of revealing dialogues shared between two strangers is highly
engaging due to the exceptional performances from Loren and Mastroianni. Loren
imbues her lonely housewife with a worn-down sadness that makes Antonietta's
desire for romance understandable. Her lustful thoughts over Gabriele appear to
be unreciprocated, as Mastroianni instills his character with a mysteriousness
that arouses Antonietta's senses, but not her suspicions.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The only music we hear throughout the film is that which is played
over the radio. The pomp and circumstance of the fascist parade gives rise to
the steady beat of marching drums and triumphant choruses as the roar of the
crowd increases and drowns out the instruments. This aural backdrop to the
blossoming relationship shared by our two protagonists intersects their
interchanges as it comes into focus during the day's defining movements. The
contrast between the ominous event, which is enrapturing Italians everywhere,
and the small-scale exchanges that transfix our attention couldn't be more
pronounced. This amalgamation of the two scenarios is a striking approach to
storytelling that enhances the impact of the union between these two lonely
souls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpflX669rZZmeo9-q98nz_dKVKMgwc_Ge98h9D165VdqWouWv2JG67Q0Ot0yNQarOLcJQ8_MDMPa1w8m8_45CFa1WpIDqewOCnB6Muf7agjulW-4Z3q3WaFdo4NcyxFsloPicH3TItnY/s1600/a+special+day+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="1200" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpflX669rZZmeo9-q98nz_dKVKMgwc_Ge98h9D165VdqWouWv2JG67Q0Ot0yNQarOLcJQ8_MDMPa1w8m8_45CFa1WpIDqewOCnB6Muf7agjulW-4Z3q3WaFdo4NcyxFsloPicH3TItnY/s320/a+special+day+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Both the story and the impressive camerawork remain confined
within the grounds of the apartment building, but Scola makes great use of this
location; shooting the action in the stairwells, the central courtyard, and
even on the roof, to prevent his picture from remaining static. His composition
and framing consider the prominent architecture of the enclosed setting whilst
also making the audience feel like a fly on the wall as the day's events
unfold. We are invited into the lives of these fascinating characters even if
it seems to be an intrusion into an intimate and personal space that we sense
should be kept in privacy behind locked doors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOmsqO9G-bN-8jEIFD5CtfW6vwn9QgYnDeYt1nmZOjSYkGIbc_8YLp1TyfC-dOeRBoqGNz-8rb9EquNmzrYHICKVKRPyq2ekFK17PpQLDWgayyw4kj6kR9GsmyTykEkuPcqg9sb4WaM0/s1600/a+special+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOmsqO9G-bN-8jEIFD5CtfW6vwn9QgYnDeYt1nmZOjSYkGIbc_8YLp1TyfC-dOeRBoqGNz-8rb9EquNmzrYHICKVKRPyq2ekFK17PpQLDWgayyw4kj6kR9GsmyTykEkuPcqg9sb4WaM0/s320/a+special+day+5.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="font-family: inherit;">A Special Day</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">
offers an invaluable insight into the lives of two people affected by the rise
of fascism and acts as a revealing time capsule of the cultural zeitgeist of
1930s Italy in the build-up to World War Two. Its stirring drama plays out in a
manner so as not to distance those who are uninterested in the politics of the
era, as the story can be taken at face value for the hopeful romantic interlude
it recounts between Gabriele and Antonietta. However, those wishing to delve
into the societal subtext of this suggestive screenplay will surely revel in
its intricate deconstruction of the outlandish attitudes that were shared by
the populace at large during this period in history. The prevalence of this
prejudiced viewpoint is a notion that is explored by Gabriele as he attempts to
challenge Antonietta's perspective during the fateful day of Hitler's visit,
which is fitting both historically and thematically as a backdrop for their
enchanting and enlightening discourse. </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">A Special Day</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is a mesmerising
tale of liberation and, conversely, repression, that remains a landmark Italian
film for reasons both of cultural importance and for fanning dreams of escapism
borne from chance encounters that have a profound impact on the lives of those involved.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch A Special Day then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-50729761252971591042019-10-25T08:18:00.000+01:002019-10-25T08:18:15.316+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 59. Je T'attendrai<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mykYSkhybBc0lrZ64N28v5_ouEp-Xff15iDN2NEvHItPzQbVcHFm8l-Jv_NaedoUnKtBqWEB1sHNDDFUnvXhXAW1GEe24WVt4uhVnRIU-uWNDzy5SQCQfQmyH4tOwfOx3_kws3yDtG0/s1600/je+tattendrai+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="647" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mykYSkhybBc0lrZ64N28v5_ouEp-Xff15iDN2NEvHItPzQbVcHFm8l-Jv_NaedoUnKtBqWEB1sHNDDFUnvXhXAW1GEe24WVt4uhVnRIU-uWNDzy5SQCQfQmyH4tOwfOx3_kws3yDtG0/s320/je+tattendrai+poster.jpg" width="202" /></a><b><br /></b><b>Je T'attendrai</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b>Léonide Moguy<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">France</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1939</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 85 minutes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">With the outbreak of World War One, many families and lovers were
separated when men deemed fit for active duty were drafted into the French army
to protect the country from the approaching German army. This situation tested
the loyalties of soldiers torn between the love for their country and their
devotion towards those closest to them, with some (brave or foolish?) men even
risking the death penalty by fleeing from their duties in pursuit of being
reunited with their loved ones. <i>Je T'attendrai</i> or <i>The Deserter</i> is
a stirring French drama that explores this very notion when a soldier seizes
the chance to visit the woman he intends to marry, for one last time before
heading towards the front, after a faulty train track delays the transportation
of his unit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxsfpwF829frt8LLhVzSQ9RBi_Mi505ZOqymyEjoV21Qbm6fUbArxLVtEJdB-pybXfAr2sJuYU-_bOz5zILfBrhZ5vWm1fRwpgXsodLmR7Crx0KB_ZbjDI5rO8APCvNwYY8RehXNVi0/s1600/je+tattendrai+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1480" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxsfpwF829frt8LLhVzSQ9RBi_Mi505ZOqymyEjoV21Qbm6fUbArxLVtEJdB-pybXfAr2sJuYU-_bOz5zILfBrhZ5vWm1fRwpgXsodLmR7Crx0KB_ZbjDI5rO8APCvNwYY8RehXNVi0/s320/je+tattendrai+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This poignant tale by Director Léonide Moguy was released in 1939, prior to
the start of World War Two, and was subsequently pulled from circulation when
its content was viewed as defamatory towards the war efforts. As a result, this
beautifully shot romance was consigned to obscurity, where it sadly remained
until none other than Quentin Tarantino pushed for its restoration when
discovering Moguy's filmography during his research for <i>Inglourious Basterds</i>.
Moguy utilises the war as a thrilling backdrop to his emotionally charged
romance and provides a rare, hopeful outlook to his storyline that unfolds
largely in real time - an inventive approach considering the era in which the
film was made. His considered framing creates an enchanting and evocative view
of the distressing situations encountered by the film's key players. The
striking imagery is one of <i>Je T'attendrai's</i> most accomplished elements
and the memorable shots enhance an already enthralling storyline.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzb4Z3ruifDKpMDPMk8nJjKpEUpIsPc1FoCYUnq0PBRX8HYVZiY-OpkFgl_-_OmTcjZVLWkxYyF-BJ5cKSjwYpjcQFLFV41K3HYLizm68IFSqkaFLZzcT1IMPzh93sNEO_KB6F8829_gY/s1600/je+tattendrai+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="620" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzb4Z3ruifDKpMDPMk8nJjKpEUpIsPc1FoCYUnq0PBRX8HYVZiY-OpkFgl_-_OmTcjZVLWkxYyF-BJ5cKSjwYpjcQFLFV41K3HYLizm68IFSqkaFLZzcT1IMPzh93sNEO_KB6F8829_gY/s320/je+tattendrai+1.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Private Paul Marchand (Jean-Pierre Aumont) is the lovelorn soldier
who convinces his commanding officer to allow him to visit Marie (Corinne
Luchaire), the alluring lady from his hometown who has captured his heart.
Aumont is perfectly cast in this role, embodying the characteristics of an
innocent young soldier who is fearful that he may never return from the war.
Marchand seizes the opportunity to allay his concerns about a future together
with Marie only to find that the distance between the two lovers - and the
interference of Marchand's proud parents - has taken its toll on their
relationship. Luchaire's dazzling performance as Marie encapsulates the pain and
grief of a lonely woman, uncertain if the future holds any prospects for her
and the man she was once smitten with. Their natural chemistry lights up the
screen, delivering an emotional hook that encourages the audience to desire a
rekindling of their union.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We become fearful not only for the fate of this relationship but
for Marchand's life as he risks being court martialled if he fails to make it
back to his squadron before the train departs. These anxieties weigh heavy on
our protagonist as he wrestles with his feelings and faces almost impossible
decisions in the pursuit of his own happiness. A rousing score heightens the
tension and invokes a sense of urgency as Marchand's limited time with Marie
comes close to expiring. Heated scenes in the storeroom of a bar which Marie
now works in leave us with bated breath as the bar owner's manipulative hold
over Marie is challenged by Marchand, causing a devastating blow to the
couple's chance of working through their differences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EB1HKlyR1CAO6pBpTSw01ic6gTEvTZeNw2TwtyW-DoTuHwMJJx9mVI6fR1Nn72WLmjExbyX4-6iVeFi-w5FNCXpOTjWWiirqHjLIUSKX1kBfDVugyhzgFgCdUwEflWssEPu6NCuFS30/s1600/je+tattendrai+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1480" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EB1HKlyR1CAO6pBpTSw01ic6gTEvTZeNw2TwtyW-DoTuHwMJJx9mVI6fR1Nn72WLmjExbyX4-6iVeFi-w5FNCXpOTjWWiirqHjLIUSKX1kBfDVugyhzgFgCdUwEflWssEPu6NCuFS30/s320/je+tattendrai+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Reluctant reconciliations result in a flurry of activity in the
film's intense finale as the main characters scramble to retain their hold on
that which is dearest to them. Like the ever-ticking clock in <i>High Noon</i>,
we are conscious of the short window of opportunity presented to Marchand and
this ploy brings a generous dose of suspense to an otherwise relatively
simplistic storyline. There is beauty in <i>Je T'attendrai's</i> simplicity
though; it's an elegantly told and engaging story with universal appeal. The
care and attention paid to the cinematography and the heartfelt acting elevate
the screenplay to the realm of an overlooked French classic that deserves to be
bestowed with far more acclaim and appreciation than it currently
garners. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXFGaI8AMNLZoLuqW9QCGCrAr03-jLoyQuirLw45eDUdlMnRP6rMtmziRuJmqF4HBPT9KSIDSO40TbBqqCB95V8Mh06mWzp8GpQJf1LjBb2td574qxgeein3zjVS2WrqivXy6UNrOcms/s1600/je+tattendrai+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXFGaI8AMNLZoLuqW9QCGCrAr03-jLoyQuirLw45eDUdlMnRP6rMtmziRuJmqF4HBPT9KSIDSO40TbBqqCB95V8Mh06mWzp8GpQJf1LjBb2td574qxgeein3zjVS2WrqivXy6UNrOcms/s320/je+tattendrai+4.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Those who take pleasure in perusing the forgotten annals of a
country renowned for its incredible contribution to the cinematic landscape
will undoubtedly rejoice in experiencing such an impassioned labour of love
from Léonide Moguy. Its snapshot of an era in history prior to the
devastation of World War Two offers a fascinating insight into the cruel
follies of World War One and the ensuing regret that consumed enlisted soldiers
as they headed out to the front, unaware if they will ever return. The breath-taking
artistry of the images presented by Moguy serve to create a highly memorable
encounter that is likely to linger on your thoughts long after the
heart-palpitating climax has passed. This is one deserter that you will be
reluctant to let out of your sight for too long as its striking imagery draws
you back in to revisit its bewitching grandeur time and time again.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Je T'attendrai then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-21032049327568480202019-09-27T07:10:00.000+01:002019-09-27T07:13:41.837+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 58. Love is Strange<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIoFFKazBPvgkYZ2DlTaktZV2WtDOrZ-Y7HEjpUfn6sbT8XWxGoXlH7m-QxfYXnifhyphenhyphen106LbDcATBv909r61cP2xGSUric4fC9fd63dDqjTeAupRJbwEJB53CjsnoUDsGuvLf63kJ7QM/s1600/love+is+strange+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1081" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIoFFKazBPvgkYZ2DlTaktZV2WtDOrZ-Y7HEjpUfn6sbT8XWxGoXlH7m-QxfYXnifhyphenhyphen106LbDcATBv909r61cP2xGSUric4fC9fd63dDqjTeAupRJbwEJB53CjsnoUDsGuvLf63kJ7QM/s320/love+is+strange+poster.jpg" width="216" /></a><b>Love is Strange</b><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">Ira Sachs</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">USA</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2014</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 94 minutes</span><br />
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Love Is Strange is a subtle meditation on love, life, and loss, channeling Leo McCarey's Make Way For Tomorrow but updating the classic tale to feature an aging gay couple who live in New York. John Lithgow plays Ben, a world-weary painter who marries his long time partner George (Alfred Molina), a music teacher at a catholic school, who subsequently loses his job when the bishop discovers he is married to a man. Forced to vacate and sell the lavish apartment they have lived in for over thirty years, the couple fall back on their supportive friends and family whilst searching for a new home. Ben takes up residence with his nephew, Elliot (Darren Burrows), and wife Kate (Marisa Tomei), where he has to share the bunk beds in their son's room, whereas George takes the sofa at their friend's flat; two gay policemen known affectionately as 'the police women' who are constantly throwing late night parties. Separated from each other and living in different parts of the city, Ben and George struggle to adjust to their new surroundings and this strain takes a toll on their relationship and their health.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kSjJL7xcy1VudN6LquCj58EMXUBBqYCq4OIfZuBuKDrcBSFDBWSU-ksQcXnfXD8-vi5onGHaMwsNrKwZtElnh8gOoY7cHCsMnVg-zCdpyGVZDqW4FmcScH3g4jwPVoLtdsTWwWwLUNA/s1600/love+is+strange+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="1200" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kSjJL7xcy1VudN6LquCj58EMXUBBqYCq4OIfZuBuKDrcBSFDBWSU-ksQcXnfXD8-vi5onGHaMwsNrKwZtElnh8gOoY7cHCsMnVg-zCdpyGVZDqW4FmcScH3g4jwPVoLtdsTWwWwLUNA/s320/love+is+strange+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Ira Sach's sublime film exudes a warmth that is befitting of its charming characters. You cannot resist becoming embroiled in the trials and tribulations of Ben and George, the charismatic couple who possess a kind and supportive nature that is positively heartwarming. Lithgow and Molina are entirely believable as the separated lovers and bring Sach's creation to life in a way that has you firmly invested in their relationship.<br />
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A subdued classical soundtrack acts as a beautiful accompaniment to this touching story, with the delicate piano complimenting the gentle personas of Ben and George. This soundscape crosses over into the story more than once due to George's affinity for music, in scenes where he plays piano to his friends and teaches his pupils. George is deeply hurt by the decision the school's board takes to relieve him of his position, and the jaded views of those acting upon this is the catalyst for many of his (and Ben's) future woes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivr0eD9lDc5bRAZBDxtasHFzrUctPrpJBvAIrBsj-ZE2NHFDAZpqKeXBMS-PVuA5G42WusoFjcn1ByHjHtYOXtBxexW7JmPZ-3jrzdolzhEbEkjaRRTDlw-CTHHBmBe_vMOEHY68UFXAA/s1600/love+is+strange+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="690" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivr0eD9lDc5bRAZBDxtasHFzrUctPrpJBvAIrBsj-ZE2NHFDAZpqKeXBMS-PVuA5G42WusoFjcn1ByHjHtYOXtBxexW7JmPZ-3jrzdolzhEbEkjaRRTDlw-CTHHBmBe_vMOEHY68UFXAA/s320/love+is+strange+1.png" width="320" /></a>Like Ben living at his nephew's apartment, we feel like a fly on the wall watching the unfolding <br />
storyline as Sachs chooses to exhibit the mundane as much as he focuses on that which is significant, giving us a true understanding of the day to day sadness inflicted on the couple by this upsetting turn of events. Ben is exposed to the inner turmoil affecting his nephew's family, namely the testing relationship between rebellious teen Joey (Charlie Tahan) and his parents, and he inadvertently worsens the situation by using Joey's best (and only) friend as a model for his painting when the boys should be studying. Joey struggles to adapt to sharing his room with his dad's gay uncle, which is understandably one of the last things that a teenager would want imposed upon their private space. Tahan showcases this frustration exceptionally well; Joey clearly doesn't want to upset Ben but you can sense the unhappiness lurking underneath the surface.<br />
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Love Is Strange is a poignant and affecting character study; a small-scale drama exploring important themes that will resonate with people from all walks of life. Sachs carefully exposes his character's weaknesses in a graceful and respectable manner as Ben and George come to realise the world is moving along without them. The heartache and pain this causes is inherent throughout, although, like Ben and George, it is often pushed to one side in favour of the stories of other minor but fascinating characters in the film.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8BGB0zs7WsZsOOtS6Zr_uVUUVh5vBBp6pBP5Rr3Rj_HEr4HHIU3smcDHLK0OSWi7rWwswAGWue-EtIdb9xOQ3V2RNo68BUL2mIA6jXSo2ikbsVjNUIsHO8RnsQoJ1Ie4K6z6NvCOkeg/s1600/love+is+strange+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1280" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8BGB0zs7WsZsOOtS6Zr_uVUUVh5vBBp6pBP5Rr3Rj_HEr4HHIU3smcDHLK0OSWi7rWwswAGWue-EtIdb9xOQ3V2RNo68BUL2mIA6jXSo2ikbsVjNUIsHO8RnsQoJ1Ie4K6z6NvCOkeg/s320/love+is+strange+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sometimes films can provoke an immediate reaction in the viewer and others leave the audience in contemplation, reflecting on that which they have seen for a number of days. Love Is Strange lies firmly in the latter camp; whilst its stirring journey does elicit an emotional response from the viewer, it is a film that lingers on the mind long afterwards. Its measured approach to storytelling and gentle pace allow time for the viewer to consider its important message, and it may even inspire you to reach out to an older friend or relative you haven't seen in a while. We can learn a lot from those who have come before us and Sach's elegant film takes a beautiful viewpoint on this; highlighting the invaluable contribution older generations make towards a modern society that sadly may not always have the time for them.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Love is Strange then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XdfA5Ff5e78" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-14575563222618561062019-09-14T12:06:00.000+01:002019-09-14T12:08:48.625+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 57. Lawn Dogs<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces and fascinating curios that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OkfPNy6wyWDah10v5MIhnCwcxC_ENzqSwOknT1dzaq3Cg4FUwbp3hc17tELMWa7VNH8mdNnMZYxSlg8K6XLZsbvtfr4amnD_ajgOvJWz6GHrVcV_Ffsf_U-2ZM83K4Kw2CrJ7R9Vk44/s1600/lawn+dogs+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1081" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OkfPNy6wyWDah10v5MIhnCwcxC_ENzqSwOknT1dzaq3Cg4FUwbp3hc17tELMWa7VNH8mdNnMZYxSlg8K6XLZsbvtfr4amnD_ajgOvJWz6GHrVcV_Ffsf_U-2ZM83K4Kw2CrJ7R9Vk44/s320/lawn+dogs+poster.jpg" width="216" /></a><b>Lawn Dogs</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">Director - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">John Duigan</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">USA</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1997</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 101 minutes</span><br />
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An innocent friendship between a young girl whose family have relocated to a tranquil suburb in Kentucky and a strange outsider who makes a living mowing the lawns of its rich residents is the focus of John Duigan's wonderful fantasy drama, Lawn Dogs. Mischa Barton makes her debut feature film appearance as Devon Stockard, a ten year old girl who is neglected by her parents, Morton (Christopher McDonald) and Clare (Kathleen Quinlan), and forms a bond with twenty-one year old Trent Burns (Sam Rockwell) after she stumbles upon his ramshackle caravan deep in the nearby woods. The Stockards would be horrified if they knew Devon had left the safety of their gated community so Trent returns her home, making sure to drop her at the border of the suburbs so as not to arouse any suspicion from Nash (Bruce McGill), the overzealous police officer who rules over the neighbourhood with an iron fist.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP3YfD-r7oYuC1Z3Nr5_rRycPCpJIGajeLK_P-fzbGhd7C9bLNmK6hsXNX_7gaE0JfS8e7W1wYXe6EtJHpESwS_dQcawNWYhGvUYrhs6oyfqiTWzYMJc0B7LdMj_VuQntoiQpBlIY8WA/s1600/lawn+dogs+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinP3YfD-r7oYuC1Z3Nr5_rRycPCpJIGajeLK_P-fzbGhd7C9bLNmK6hsXNX_7gaE0JfS8e7W1wYXe6EtJHpESwS_dQcawNWYhGvUYrhs6oyfqiTWzYMJc0B7LdMj_VuQntoiQpBlIY8WA/s320/lawn+dogs+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Like American Beauty and Suburbicon, Lawn Dogs holds a magnifying glass up at the inner workings of the American suburb, exploring the notion that all is not well behind the white-washed fences of a seemingly perfect community and its residents who masquerade dark secrets. Where Lawn Dogs differs is in its viewpoint of this unease that bubbles under the surface, as we see the cracks in the facade through the eyes of Devon, whose overactive imagination leads her young mind to retreat into a dream-like fantasy land. Devon takes inspiration from the classic Russian folk tale of the Baba Yaga, a story about an evil witch who dwells in the woods and eats children; applying this fable to her own parallel experiences as she has no friends of her own age to play with. The child-like and caring nature of Trent resounds with Devon and the two outsiders find companionship in an unlikely alliance, even if it exposes them to the inherent dangers that lurk within the model society they both turn their back upon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtyFGpnPO09cKUHUbHGYDGwxbXJzm2i1-UpJ10uhDgofiFL32elmpgKHddCQlrslAZ6cnJCxCPxD1OqopQrSj25rVc1vQvM95HVRX-6aKRDa_BL0eHh-L7Xl_WYOOe39cRKfjfJPhzy0/s1600/lawn+dogs+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="718" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtyFGpnPO09cKUHUbHGYDGwxbXJzm2i1-UpJ10uhDgofiFL32elmpgKHddCQlrslAZ6cnJCxCPxD1OqopQrSj25rVc1vQvM95HVRX-6aKRDa_BL0eHh-L7Xl_WYOOe39cRKfjfJPhzy0/s320/lawn+dogs+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Duigan's sharp deconstruction of blissful suburban life starts off as a quirky coming of age tale with shades of black comedy but descends into a tempestuous drama as the hot summer boils up the underlying tensions between Trent and two bored residents, Brett (David Barry Gray) and Sean (Eric Mabius) - who openly flirts with Trent whenever the two are alone. They make fun of Trent's dishevelled appearance and his run-down truck and inadvertently undermine his lawn-mowing services by tending to the gardens of lonely housewives who welcome Brett's lurid advances. The usually calm and composed Trent is pushed to breaking point by these encounters and Rockwell's biting demonstration of this change in his character's demeanour showcases why he was perfect for the role, with his upsetting retaliation causing friction in his friendship with Devon as she ends up in a precarious position. Trent intervenes and inadvertently sets in motion a series of events that provokes further aggression from his antagonists, who are joined by an angry Morton Stockard and a concerned police officer Nash.<br />
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As well as bringing a charged emotional depth to his performance Rockwell is the driving force for much of the film's humour; his cheeky grin as he stops traffic to dive naked into a river from a tall bridge after a hard day's work is a revealing scene for Trent, in more ways than one. Innocent nudity is also displayed by Barton in a scene where Devon tosses her clothes out to the wind as she curls up on the roof outside of her bedroom window in another moment of rebellion. These scenes serve to highlight the similarities between the two individuals as they vent their frustrations in ways that upset the status quo and demonstrates that they are not yet shackled by the loss of innocence that has ushered on the repression of others around them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm065g572k0c55CREKIN0ahfSO0jj3e1ckFjbmKMA3Cymir1dEHD016kcLGuLjQj1sQ0zCFnLukCasTWrtKq7PzKKgyJcTnuTcC3Ec7Tz1i-32PfmERHCKExtg3OBRdt_gMBU8SIZH9T4/s1600/lawn+dogs+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm065g572k0c55CREKIN0ahfSO0jj3e1ckFjbmKMA3Cymir1dEHD016kcLGuLjQj1sQ0zCFnLukCasTWrtKq7PzKKgyJcTnuTcC3Ec7Tz1i-32PfmERHCKExtg3OBRdt_gMBU8SIZH9T4/s320/lawn+dogs+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>Barton is utterly delightful as Devon; she is completely believable as the sweet young girl who her parents take her for but equally convincing as the cunning child who tricks them into thinking she is staying at a friend's house overnight when really she is visiting Trent. Devon's occasional flights of fancy remind us that she is still firmly in the realm of childhood, even if her character is often the most mature and grounded of the adults she shares the screen with. Her perfectly natural kinship with Trent is the purest relationship we see, and it is heartbreaking when those who disagree with this union of damaged souls interpret it as something far more sinister, particularly as we are aware of the adulterous actions of those who condemn their friendship.<br />
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Lawn Dogs is a funny, frank, and surprisingly insightful take on the all American dream. The elements of a childhood fantasy are integrated incredibly well with the adult themes of deceit and unfulfillment, bringing a coarse but enlightening tone to the proceedings that gives Duigan's voice an imposing pedestal from which to be heard. He has crafted a poignant and touching American drama, which is pretty damn impressive for an Australian film director, and his stance on the trappings of its modern society is as satisfying to behold as a swathe of freshly mowed lawns on a superficially pristine American suburb.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Lawn Dogs then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-1477977448904069932019-09-07T09:04:00.001+01:002019-09-07T09:04:38.831+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 56. The Eve of Ivan Kupala<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5ux1KHuTdWb-bXsHNA-J0fGL-7t74JuJYaTTb13FXOYMdak21ChL3pPiHfk1-b_ra5MkEgFxS76MaRmTg36bgIc2YhXE86nCRcWgK54KoFtd-sbvNdhCt044nALWGPpzsypkuHrlblc/s1600/ivan+kupala+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="740" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5ux1KHuTdWb-bXsHNA-J0fGL-7t74JuJYaTTb13FXOYMdak21ChL3pPiHfk1-b_ra5MkEgFxS76MaRmTg36bgIc2YhXE86nCRcWgK54KoFtd-sbvNdhCt044nALWGPpzsypkuHrlblc/s320/ivan+kupala+poster.jpg" width="227" /></a><b>The Eve of Ivan Kupala</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Yuri Ilyenko</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soviet Union</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1968</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 71 minutes</span><br />
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The Eve of Ivan Kupala is a surreal adaptation of a Ukrainian folk tale that extends a hallucinatory gaze into a culture awash with age old rituals and spiritual connections to the natural world. Its eerie vision of a peasant, Piotr (Boris Khmelnitskiy), who makes a pact with the devil to obtain a mass of riches and the love of a woman, Pidorka (Larisa Kadochnikova) - whose father forbids them to marry - is a transcendental piece of film-making that is capable of bewitching audiences with its strange, ethereal delights. Familiarity with the cautionary tale this film is based upon is not a necessary prerequisite to bask in its otherworldly offerings as the hypnotic imagery delivers a wealth of evocative scenes that stir up a child-like fascination with Director Yuri Ilyenko's enrapturing creativity.<br />
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Ilyenko's dazzling camerawork conjures up a kaleidoscope of wonders as the enchanting colour schemes and spellbinding compositions take us on a magical journey that we hope never reaches an end. Although The Eve of Ivan Kupala belongs to the realm of fantasy there are unsettling scenes which tap into a primal horror where the dizzying camera movements disorient us as Piotr becomes encircled by supernatural beings. The inventive use of colour lenses warp our perception of these beguiling sequences in which the devil makes his appearance, enhancing the sensation of fear that engulfs Piotr, yet fails to over-ride his innate desire for untold riches and the incomparable beauty of the woman he lusts after.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkoarQX_5g6xqS0mvsvbWXDIwp5-jcUDcuWNi2hC1Jt3kJHXRC0uIlyu_mH3JnxGe19BFs8me8GX-ENVftCzGcD_n_ReaUqXFrWrlAmaXjJf8ZXlOO52-b7S-bc5VdqDasGGBOq_4ngw/s1600/ivan+kupala+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="500" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkoarQX_5g6xqS0mvsvbWXDIwp5-jcUDcuWNi2hC1Jt3kJHXRC0uIlyu_mH3JnxGe19BFs8me8GX-ENVftCzGcD_n_ReaUqXFrWrlAmaXjJf8ZXlOO52-b7S-bc5VdqDasGGBOq_4ngw/s320/ivan+kupala+6.png" width="320" /></a>Fireballs ricochet down hillsides in the background as villagers adorned in floral costumes and animal masks partake in ceremonial dances reminiscent of the pagan practices prevalent in The Wicker Man and Midsommar. These celebrations usher in a jubilant mood before casting a shadow over Piotr's designs on Pidorka as the playfulness of those participating passes and a sinister undercurrent begins to flourish. Those who dabble in the occult usually pay a hefty price for their sins and Piotr's attempts at retaining Pidorka's heart and his newfound wealth are met with twisted rebuffs from the Devil as the macabre manifestations start to consume him.<br />
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Like his fellow countryman and celebrated auteur, Andrei Tarkovsky, Ilyenko has an unnatural talent for elegantly capturing the beauty of nature, instilling his film with a sublime artistry that transports us into his extraordinary vivid imagination. These serene moments are often interrupted by a cavalcade of absurdity and the unharmonious juxtaposition of these moods should be jarring but Ilyenko binds them together seamlessly, unifying the discordant themes with his adept command of the medium. The relentless stream of ideas that flows forth is communicated in an enthralling manner as the sumptuous set designs play host to madcap performances from a cast who relish the bizarre sensibilities of a production infused with unparalleled creativity. This is an astonishing piece of art; an unconventional masterpiece where its only shortcoming is its brevity, and it acts as the perfect gateway into the mind of an inspired auteur.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVLFcBFgVxTVAUyzWAN2vxyPdWf_o7D1UjdDfogPr451MLOgmTS_1YSL6zquJg1Nn9MO22-VDdZJjV4JsrRMHOXLEMryKQYW2wxcA8t2C3-j27UpmanqmW8Tv3SklDEqG6O22nbO_D1g/s1600/ivan+kupala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="1021" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVLFcBFgVxTVAUyzWAN2vxyPdWf_o7D1UjdDfogPr451MLOgmTS_1YSL6zquJg1Nn9MO22-VDdZJjV4JsrRMHOXLEMryKQYW2wxcA8t2C3-j27UpmanqmW8Tv3SklDEqG6O22nbO_D1g/s320/ivan+kupala.jpg" width="320" /></a>The intriguing narrative takes a backseat to the visual feast we are invited upon as Ilyenko drapes his fantasy with a swathe of symbolism. This is a feast of plenty encompassing folklore that is likely to be unfamiliar to many audiences but its potency is not lost in translation due to the painstaking craftsmanship of the delivery. The Eve of Ivan Kupala is not just a film; it's a breathtaking experience that leaves you in awe of its vigorous and energetic telling of an ancient tale using striking techniques to evoke a powerful sense of sorcery. Piotr's life is totally transformed by his encounter with the devil and, although your encounter with Ilyenko's masterpiece will (thankfully) not come with the same trappings that are thrust upon Piotr, it will undoubtedly be an experience that transforms your appreciation for the incredible mind responsible for this visceral piece of art.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Eve of Ivan Kupala then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-66501469297576494662019-08-23T08:25:00.002+01:002019-08-23T08:26:36.791+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 55. The Boxer and Death<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBBeBpf2LaaT6hWCGyBrjuwdBzWXuOufigCB4l_vDZBAkBZOLvcp2omlmtoS5aP96GSI5jANppawGmDb-pZhdTfbVJuv0rp-TuFQhnHFtIcIqy_9rG3eav-imywPe3_EpiULgtTYEHxs/s1600/boxer+a+smrt+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBBeBpf2LaaT6hWCGyBrjuwdBzWXuOufigCB4l_vDZBAkBZOLvcp2omlmtoS5aP96GSI5jANppawGmDb-pZhdTfbVJuv0rp-TuFQhnHFtIcIqy_9rG3eav-imywPe3_EpiULgtTYEHxs/s320/boxer+a+smrt+poster.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>The Boxer and Death</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Peter Solan</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Czechoslovakia</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1963</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 120 minutes</span><br />
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The resourcefulness of those persecuted by the Nazis during the Holocaust coupled with the serendipitous nature of possessing a certain skill, craft or trade that helped the oppressed survive has been the central conceit for many profound war films. Roman Polanski's The Pianist and Stefan Ruzowitsky's The Counterfeiters feature protagonists who are saved from horrific fates thanks to their usefulness to the cruel authorities who oversee the concentration camps or ghettos they are detained in. Those who survived to see another day in such abominable places were destined to pay a terrible price as the guilt and remorse of seeing their close companions taken to the gas chambers inevitably weighed heavily upon their emotional state of mind.<br />
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An overlooked Czechoslovakian film that explores this very notion is Peter Solan's moving drama from 1963, The Boxer and Death. It tells a powerful tale of a Jewish pugilist, Jan Kominek (Stefan Kvietik), whose life is spared when a Nazi commandant fond of boxing, Kraft (Manfred Krug) - who is in charge of the concentration camp where Jan is captive - takes Jan for his sparring partner. Jan is given extra food to gain weight and increase his strength for these sparring matches but this advantageous position causes friction between the boxer and some of the other camp's inhabitants. As well as facing hostilities from his peers, Jan also struggles when facing Kraft in the ring. He understands that it is important not to overstep his mark when throwing punches and this proves to be a difficult undertaking. Jan is presented with the perfect opportunity to take out his frustrations on the commandant and his true feelings threaten to bubble up to the surface as the bouts increase in intensity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2S1lzSD3aH-vkIRp0vfEGcBgrm8uYbs5cbU9lMSA9t-xTB007J2zm5v7Hxm7lvypsxj2tDd35_irCPnav7c69TJioxcTB2cQw_uYwepYvoFUIbh-u9429UOFwxi5cN8smHkz-ewbezjU/s1600/boxer+a+smrt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="624" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2S1lzSD3aH-vkIRp0vfEGcBgrm8uYbs5cbU9lMSA9t-xTB007J2zm5v7Hxm7lvypsxj2tDd35_irCPnav7c69TJioxcTB2cQw_uYwepYvoFUIbh-u9429UOFwxi5cN8smHkz-ewbezjU/s320/boxer+a+smrt.jpg" width="320" /></a>A mutual yet tenuous bond of respect and, to a certain degree, friendship is formed between these two men as they train together. The vast differences in their circumstances prevents a genuine connection from ever being possible given the situation but it is fascinating to see how their time spent boxing together becomes an important release for both of them. It provides Kraft with a way to flex his power and indulge his domineering nature on a weaker man, whilst also allowing him to feel good about helping out someone in desperate need of hope, and it encourages Jan to quite literally fight for a chance to make it through the oppressive Nazi regime with his body and soul intact.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTU2nJoWOqUkruSENYRVsFqfvoC0P2x6Ok62BKoNEyVOqPLIeeZA7HydeqYqIxqwN7PweKHZrhBlcb5NK5AONeBZqvl7PKZYn-_M5XOkL5sNbL1BgleCIn4WoIO2lvS9_t1fFwMGUlfk/s1600/boxer+a+smrt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="720" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTU2nJoWOqUkruSENYRVsFqfvoC0P2x6Ok62BKoNEyVOqPLIeeZA7HydeqYqIxqwN7PweKHZrhBlcb5NK5AONeBZqvl7PKZYn-_M5XOkL5sNbL1BgleCIn4WoIO2lvS9_t1fFwMGUlfk/s320/boxer+a+smrt+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Kvietik imbues his character with an innate hunger for survival that is demonstrated wonderfully in an early scene where he defies Kraft by dodging punches which are being inflicted upon him due to a failed escape attempt. This is the incidental but defining moment that acts as a catalyst for Jan, bringing his attention to Kraft and initiating a gradual change in his outlook through the boxing that enables his strength and hope to return. Krug is equally as compelling as Kraft, showcasing a human side to a man who has been swept up by the spread of Nazism and begins to display signs of doubt surrounding the final solution. Both actors possess a natural skill in the ring that lends credence to their exceptional performances, and the vigorous boxing bouts are capable of holding your attention as much as the scenes which deal with the weightier themes of the Holocaust.<br />
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In addition to the exceptionally choreographed fight scenes where Jan faces up to Kraft, he is constantly portrayed as battling his own personal demons and this is represented by the stunning cinematography and direction by Peter Solan. Smoke engulfs Jan as he trains near the camp's chimneys in a sombre and haunting sequence, momentarily clouding his judgement and adding to his inner turmoil, whilst also serving as a stark reminder that he is clinging on to life by the smallest of threads. This is powerful film-making, rife with thought-provoking symbolism and poignant, evocative shots that allude to the horrors of war without resorting to depicting the full graphic extent of the barbarity that took place at these camps.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQntPqCsdLhzdizOCjvNpATfmYsdsUyw2tL_e9isjB01qV0S2RL8VYD5WjXpIj6iEaaNBRaj7oojSajW-rVTt-m9fFCwldC5Xmai4kLRgD_OZjy2fvBnm6rW57vOr1kri6z4CFVXEyOyk/s1600/boxer+a+smrt+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="720" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQntPqCsdLhzdizOCjvNpATfmYsdsUyw2tL_e9isjB01qV0S2RL8VYD5WjXpIj6iEaaNBRaj7oojSajW-rVTt-m9fFCwldC5Xmai4kLRgD_OZjy2fvBnm6rW57vOr1kri6z4CFVXEyOyk/s320/boxer+a+smrt+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Like the aforementioned films which tackle a similar subject matter, The Boxer and Death is an emotionally draining yet essential viewing experience, albeit one that has sadly slipped into obscurity. It may be a harrowing tale about the atrocities of war but it is also a stirring sports drama, an intimate character study, and a thrilling struggle between two men with radically opposing views. Films as potent as this deserve to reach a much wider audience; the valuable lessons contained within are impressed upon the viewer with a deftness of touch that is rare given the provocative nature of the troubling time in history it depicts. Solan has crafted a memorable film with an important message and a gripping storyline that resonates on a deep level as we contemplate the eternal scarring suffered by those who survived through such a horrific, life-altering ordeal.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Boxer and Death then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G0gQTrWVvSU" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-40285007685255528612019-08-15T18:50:00.001+01:002019-08-15T18:50:11.826+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 54. I'm Not Scared<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v3f5dzy8gPNeWgHl3obiAa63uQ2lcbyTkIi-Q4lZcK9uLcj2A7xeCl3CYr7hTwy7gVrapMxowHjXMgjcEFwt7nMUddC8CCLONg2fRzEACF9N8CuuS6TzZBvvDl88ulN5KIdlcodxUO4/s1600/i%2527m+not+scared+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v3f5dzy8gPNeWgHl3obiAa63uQ2lcbyTkIi-Q4lZcK9uLcj2A7xeCl3CYr7hTwy7gVrapMxowHjXMgjcEFwt7nMUddC8CCLONg2fRzEACF9N8CuuS6TzZBvvDl88ulN5KIdlcodxUO4/s320/i%2527m+not+scared+poster.jpg" width="213" /></a><b>I'm Not Scared</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Gabriele Salvatores</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Italy</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2003</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 108 minutes</span><br />
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I'm Not Scared is a chilling mystery as seen through the eyes of Michele, a nine year old boy who lives in an idyllic pastoral village in the Italian countryside. Whilst out playing with his friends, Michele uncovers a bloodcurdling secret and his inquisitive nature lands him in a dangerous situation when he returns alone to investigate further. At first, Michele keeps his discovery a secret from his parents and friends. However, as his actions of kindness towards a stranger grow bolder, Michele's risk of being caught by the perpetrators of a heinous crime increases and threatens to derail his family's peaceful existence.<br />
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Director Gabriele Salvatores adapted this enthralling story from the successful novel of the same name by Niccolo Ammaniti and brought his sublime vision of the loss of childhood innocence to life with vivid detail. This is a beautifully realised amalgamation of a childhood fantasy with a disturbing crime story in a sumptuous setting that provides an enchanting backdrop to the proceedings. Visceral tracking shots of Michele and his friends frolicking in tall wheat fields at the start of the film evoke the magic of happy childhood memories and culminate in a demonstration of Michele's strength of character as he stands up for a girl who is being bullied. These relatively carefree times are soon to be disrupted by a life-changing set of circumstances and the subsequent crescendo to the film's revelatory finale is as enthralling as its heartstopping conclusion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DxqOQFrcs0yeVvB-d3EfGj0n9NuX1if_HbWP5nWG5vLgCcUX-qlyqCL49htzDSaEIRmtSppmx9msQlZc_R8A4_KVr5rn_cEjPNhuEiSFD5u3SpfPXJuwvPFokwn1rgWSrnITwzjytmc/s1600/i%2527m+not+scared+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="780" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DxqOQFrcs0yeVvB-d3EfGj0n9NuX1if_HbWP5nWG5vLgCcUX-qlyqCL49htzDSaEIRmtSppmx9msQlZc_R8A4_KVr5rn_cEjPNhuEiSFD5u3SpfPXJuwvPFokwn1rgWSrnITwzjytmc/s320/i%2527m+not+scared+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In child actor Giuseppe Cristiano, Salvatore found the perfect combination of innocence and curiosity that drives a spirited performance with real conviction in his portrayal of Michele. Cristiano tackles a range of challenging scenes, particularly when Michele witness his mother being assaulted, and brings a sense of stoicism to his role - a trait that only a child who doesn't fully comprehend the seriousness of the situations he finds himself in is likely to exhibit. Michele is a boy who will captivate your heart, and Cristiano's superb depiction of the film's central character brings a raw emotional hook that propels the picture into the realm of greatness.<br />
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Trouble rears its head when Michele's father, Pino, is visited by an intimidating friend from the city and Michele is forced to share his room with the unwanted guest. This is the catalyst for Michele's rebellious streak to develop further and is the cause for a heated confrontation with his mother, Anna. Both parents are attentive to the needs of Michele and his younger sister, Maria, giving gifts and introducing games to see who has to fetch the wine for the table (a game that is revisited later in the film with horrific consequences) but you can sense a shift in mood with the arrival of Pino's intimidating visitor.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdWVVkqwIaLT14q3YbioNFUV-FrjIBE-4bBI2gUz8xqlTwfIObSp_pCM9NNh8jw0TU3t1QSHpU4SoKS3XdRCLAw4HBa4BN8E7k6uGT8bkoRfqcqiKejx_bzj69UzqGw4GTAmMhlHlXM8/s1600/i%2527m+not+scared+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="600" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdWVVkqwIaLT14q3YbioNFUV-FrjIBE-4bBI2gUz8xqlTwfIObSp_pCM9NNh8jw0TU3t1QSHpU4SoKS3XdRCLAw4HBa4BN8E7k6uGT8bkoRfqcqiKejx_bzj69UzqGw4GTAmMhlHlXM8/s320/i%2527m+not+scared+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Dino Abbrescia provides a real intensity to his performance as Pino; wrestling with his parental <br />
responsibilities and the uncompromising situation he finds himself in. Aitana Sanchez-Gijon shines as Anna, trying to hide her growing concern about the appearance of her husband's dangerous friends and struggling to contend with her son's new found defiance. With Michele's home life being disrupted in this manner it is no wonder he retreats to the fantasy world in his imagination, or the ramshackled farmhouse in which he makes his startling discovery, so often.<br />
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Vibrant strings collide with the buzz of crickets as the rousing score appears to harmonise with the natural sounds of the countryside. The stirring music lifts the film's key scenes by inducing a state of alertness in the audience; ushering in a playful urgency as characters flee from danger or a jubilant sense of freedom as children run wild in the fields. A recurring motif is strengthened as the film progresses and this serves to heighten the impact of the gripping denouement when its sorrowful melody strikes up for one last time. This is a soundtrack awash with music that delights and haunts in equal measure - a fitting partner to the tumultuous yet mesmerising events we witness on screen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkXm5HsM5iE-QZ6bK69T0BW8Hnsuqbr1gBRMROmLzhtlrCS9qX-KOSiZUT-qZeTk6C5raE0g_fCsUOMheiarq4HQUa1_V2zwVDPiHO7RfARtpFkYiMCn9YQE_gYR_dndSEUaxc3C0pm4/s1600/i%2527m+not+scared+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="700" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkXm5HsM5iE-QZ6bK69T0BW8Hnsuqbr1gBRMROmLzhtlrCS9qX-KOSiZUT-qZeTk6C5raE0g_fCsUOMheiarq4HQUa1_V2zwVDPiHO7RfARtpFkYiMCn9YQE_gYR_dndSEUaxc3C0pm4/s320/i%2527m+not+scared+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is fascinating to see the actions of criminals interpreted by a young boy and traumatic to learn of the twisted lies they tell to another. There are some cruel and malicious men at the centre of this compelling mystery and this allows Michele's virtuous nature to illuminate the darkness he finds along his journey of discovery. The stunning vistas of the endless wheat fields are eerily reminiscent of the imagery we associate with the Elysian Fields. A revered place reserved for the virtuous and heroic in Greek mythology, and a place that seems like the perfect setting for Michele's brave and selfless deeds. With I'm Not Scared, Salvatores has crafted a sublime work of art; a captivating and suspenseful mystery full of wonder and danger that is delivered in a style befitting of the unforgettably poignant tale it presents.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch I'm Not Scared then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RAZRVU88viM" width="320"></iframe><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-48593415210961339902019-08-10T11:53:00.001+01:002019-08-15T18:39:40.334+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 53. Billy Budd<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBMKPLQAHqODmbI3rpTcDZkVlxKatF1erJRLjSc1af7RM_I94sI-8aW90_ihyE5G4PKtuTWZXOUifilmaVTQ2c-hnzbZ7la7cX7JrFipBuPzhikU_qYynZupe4_rPFWB-yEolVey0p1k/s1600/billy+budd+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="780" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBMKPLQAHqODmbI3rpTcDZkVlxKatF1erJRLjSc1af7RM_I94sI-8aW90_ihyE5G4PKtuTWZXOUifilmaVTQ2c-hnzbZ7la7cX7JrFipBuPzhikU_qYynZupe4_rPFWB-yEolVey0p1k/s320/billy+budd+poster.jpg" width="213" /></a><b>Billy Budd</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Peter Ustinov</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">UK</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1962</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 123 minutes</span><br />
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Peter Ustinov was famed for his terrific performances in front of the camera but his stints behind the camera have sadly been largely forgotten. His crowning achievement as a film director is the remarkable tale of Billy Budd, a thrilling showdown of good versus evil set on tempestuous high seas when England and France were at war in the late 1700s. Terence Stamp stars in the titular role as a naive young sailor who is commandeered from the merchant ship he works upon by a passing British war ship. His innocent and charming ways make waves with his new crew but also bring unwanted attention from the cruel master at arms, John Claggart (Robert Ryan), who uses any excuse to punish his subordinates and delights in flogging repeat offenders.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kBabD7r3UeDjKUqb-YuLtHd7jJhTG0w0AMorpn6Oi1k3-SNN7To-Wpi62ara0Mlm0gQYUUFYO33CnMq4EAKejUgPYL7X7046lXxfxQtAgTLa9DzVTOxlLgo0BeojUXX9p2sDfL5cAXY/s1600/billy+budd+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="485" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kBabD7r3UeDjKUqb-YuLtHd7jJhTG0w0AMorpn6Oi1k3-SNN7To-Wpi62ara0Mlm0gQYUUFYO33CnMq4EAKejUgPYL7X7046lXxfxQtAgTLa9DzVTOxlLgo0BeojUXX9p2sDfL5cAXY/s320/billy+budd+1.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
Budd's frank and optimistic outlook on life is instantly endearing. He may not be the most intelligent sailor but the Bristol born lad is hard-working and it is clear that his heart is in the right place, leading us to understand why his previous captain was so reluctant to let him go. Stamp's superb portrayal of Budd earned the young thespian an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, which is no mean feat when you consider it was his big screen debut alongside a number of well established and talent actors.<br />
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The interplay between Budd and Claggart is masterfully executed with both Stamp and Ryan delivering astonishing performances and lighting up the screen with their astute characterisations. Stamp's portrayal of Budd's optimism is a stark juxtaposition with Ryan's subdued take on the inherent evil that bubbles under the surface of Claggart. The scenes they share alone on the ship's deck at night offer a fascinating insight into the psychology of both characters whilst providing us with an unrivalled dramatic tension that has the power to leave audiences completely entranced.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1TRVFrYFq8IPCs4OZXU58Z2A9_rj0lehVbD32lNJFrxQ_exNX_ZmJh7q2QdHjOXlTJcOs1tKoAVD6ma5h7kdRq9pHwQ795j1rTD1gGDWCZq002P4fnbNey5gE5oRGH-sOOKQU1H19tI/s1600/billy+budd+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="495" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1TRVFrYFq8IPCs4OZXU58Z2A9_rj0lehVbD32lNJFrxQ_exNX_ZmJh7q2QdHjOXlTJcOs1tKoAVD6ma5h7kdRq9pHwQ795j1rTD1gGDWCZq002P4fnbNey5gE5oRGH-sOOKQU1H19tI/s320/billy+budd+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>The role of Captain Edwin Fairfax Vere is handled by Peter Ustinov, proving he was more than capable of tackling demanding performances alongside his duties as a director. Captain Vere's stoic and steadfast nature serves the crew well but he understands the need for Claggart's cruel practices to keep his men in line. When Billy and Claggart come to blows he is cornered in a very difficult position. Ustinov portrays the sobering effects this challenging predicament has on the captain with a real sense of anguish; he is torn between acting under the rules of the law, or on his and his officer's shared notion of justice.<br />
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Searing dramas where underlings question the authority of their leaders often explore the morality of the human condition. Billy Budd is a prime example of this and its storyline inspires hope as you are encouraged to empathise with Budd's plight. He tries to tackle the situation the only way he knows how - by acting with dignity and kindness - even when his fellow man is against him, and this places Budd in a precarious position.<br />
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By favouring small scale conflicts amongst a ship's crew over large scale swashbuckling set pieces, Billy Budd delivers a riveting human drama in a fascinating setting that still retains a grand sense of adventure. The acting is tremendous, the story is incredibly engaging, and the impressive cinematography of the ship traversing the ocean is utterly beguiling. This is a first rate British film that delivers plenty of thrills alongside the intricate and emotionally involving examination of ethics and righteousness. By the time the final scene fades into the distance you will have been on a heartwrenching and unforgettable journey that may even convince you to take stock of your own outlook on life.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Billy Budd then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HDpUw10640U" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-78262261180263265862019-07-30T07:00:00.002+01:002019-07-30T07:05:28.572+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 52. The Whisperers<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2VAUc7o5GfFsYoUJ7b7lDZLkElcVLDPAh-3zC5UCA8uD3fuNEQjW0MrSPbnyGZTRJZxHPNZgXPyX_kpvod_DsSDla7DtcDppUWExNlyolXmueb2BOsiTdgk7ptod4b_j7IVfWWdmxrw/s1600/the+whisperers+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1135" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2VAUc7o5GfFsYoUJ7b7lDZLkElcVLDPAh-3zC5UCA8uD3fuNEQjW0MrSPbnyGZTRJZxHPNZgXPyX_kpvod_DsSDla7DtcDppUWExNlyolXmueb2BOsiTdgk7ptod4b_j7IVfWWdmxrw/s320/the+whisperers+poster.jpg" width="227" /></a><b>The Whisperers</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Bryan Forbes</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">UK</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1967</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 106 minutes</span><br />
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Loneliness amongst the elderly is an ever relevant concern for our aging society and it has been a prevalent consternation throughout modern British history. It is a recurring theme for film-makers to explore the isolation of older generations but none have encapsulated the pervading sense of fear this conjures up as brilliantly as Bryan Forbes with his stark and haunting drama, The Whisperers. This intriguing title is a reference to the quiet voices that an old lady hears in her ground floor apartment. Are the whispers coming from her neighbours or are they a figment of a delusional imagination that longs for yet, conversely, seems to shy away from company?<br />
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Edith Evans stars as Maggie Ross, a fragile elderly lady who separated from her husband Archie (Eric Portman) many years ago and clings on to the hope of receiving financial aid from the sale of her late father's estate. She lives alone in poverty and fear, surviving on handouts from the Social Services and frequenting the police station to voice her concerns about the ominous whisperings which she believes are coming from people who are spying on her.<br />
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Maggie's sad and troubling existence is interrupted only by the occasional calls from her criminal son, Charlie (Ronald Fraser), who we see stashing a wad of notes in her spare room during one such visit. A room crowded with old books and newspapers that Maggie refuses to dispose of. Upon discovering the notes, she believes her fortunes have changed but the cruel actions of strangers who take advantage of her, and the return of her troublesome husband Archie, serve to derail any hopes she has of overcoming her sorrowful station in life.<br />
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This bleak and harrowing drama features a tour de force performance from Edith Evans that saw her nominated for a Best Actress Oscar. Evans demonstrates Maggie's constant confusion with ease, bringing a gentleness and frailty to the role that has you empathising with her predicament from very early on, as well as leaving you wondering why she didn't come away with the Oscar. There is only one person in Maggie's life who genuinely seems to care for her wellbeing; Mr Conrad (Gerald Sim), an attentive Civil Servant who shows an interest in her situation and provides us with faith in the systems in place to protect the interests of the poverty-stricken elderly. However, Mr Conrad doesn't have the time or capability to support Maggie with all of her woes, particularly when she falls ill and is unable to care for herself, and with no-one to rely on she risks coming to serious harm.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOzW0Dr9BFnNYiQipM0Y8dYkEhzysLjSwfC7NAtpw5RwrrIbyO2bKyDzI5zegUHeqOz-OLEDBvIJjuNPcicXUxHof8QIRiH8ataEcj3SeAzj0i84vR32MTYneo8RarXc_mgf-0kODAbg/s1600/the+whisperers+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="308" data-original-width="500" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOzW0Dr9BFnNYiQipM0Y8dYkEhzysLjSwfC7NAtpw5RwrrIbyO2bKyDzI5zegUHeqOz-OLEDBvIJjuNPcicXUxHof8QIRiH8ataEcj3SeAzj0i84vR32MTYneo8RarXc_mgf-0kODAbg/s320/the+whisperers+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>The rubbish-laden streets surrounding Maggie's apartment can be considered an extension of her <br />
unsafe living conditions. Conditions that are worsened by her need for new shoes and her inability to afford any. Forbes captures this state of disrepair when he sets the scene at the start of the film as various animals rummage through the litter in the streets. These are lone animals and rodents, unwanted by society and struggling to survive in a hostile and unfriendly environment. To compare Maggie in such a way is unkind but Forbes message is clear, there is an inherent problem in how a disproportionate amount of the populace are willing to disregard the elderly and their needs.<br />
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Forbes crafted a number of exceptional, quintessential British films in his illustrious career and deserves to be recognised for his outstanding contribution to cinema. This alarming portrayal of a frail old lady pushed to her limits is a highlight of his filmography and undoubtedly had an influence on the kitchen-sink realism of directors such as Mike Leigh and Ken Loach. The honest and hard-hitting nature of Forbes approach makes for a thought-provoking and revealing drama that refuses to shy away from the upsetting issues surrounding this sensitive subject.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJlwlj8-5vtxAExjSfe5kFKwcawKnWNoLGtnvnXC6lHPRb2wx6omPGQkUrs92Rie4zwT8SkCkrhnXYzBxEDS2Or8Lr-H4zmKUBzL1Ym3x_yrJbQZlceF4ZdyfG_nOvbX8LjS-bIcl8Hg/s1600/the+whisperers+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="282" data-original-width="500" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJlwlj8-5vtxAExjSfe5kFKwcawKnWNoLGtnvnXC6lHPRb2wx6omPGQkUrs92Rie4zwT8SkCkrhnXYzBxEDS2Or8Lr-H4zmKUBzL1Ym3x_yrJbQZlceF4ZdyfG_nOvbX8LjS-bIcl8Hg/s320/the+whisperers+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Whisperers is a fascinating study of old age and the tribulations that befall those without the support of a caring network of family or friends. It is a devastating but important picture that shines a light on an aspect of society that remains relevant today. The depressing subject matter requires a certain state of mind to endure but Forbes weaves this bleak notion into an enthralling and poignant story that is fully deserving of your attentive gaze. This overlooked British classic is waiting patiently to be rediscovered so don't leave it languishing in the past like the travesty of poor Mrs Ross who is abandoned by those around her. The astonishing central performance from Edith Evans is worthy of your time alone but I am certain that other aspects of this beautifully realised film will resonate in a manner that leaves you contemplating the importance of family.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Whisperers then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U52Zsi0U5DM" width="320"></iframe><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-32404865223779232432019-07-19T19:49:00.000+01:002019-07-19T19:49:24.844+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 51. Barefoot Gen<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJgE9qg3TACcM7ze223qGJmjeyeqIAK4l2X0E4FxDGCFqDrZv7tkmhn39jdUB6prEsciC7Gu7f5cs_QouIsvLnU2tamHOj1TYnm_ayDITArhMeofGvMSwlwraeDAR95EliMz9mvwEuHY/s1600/barefoot+gen+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJgE9qg3TACcM7ze223qGJmjeyeqIAK4l2X0E4FxDGCFqDrZv7tkmhn39jdUB6prEsciC7Gu7f5cs_QouIsvLnU2tamHOj1TYnm_ayDITArhMeofGvMSwlwraeDAR95EliMz9mvwEuHY/s320/barefoot+gen+poster.jpg" width="225" /></a><b>Barefoot Gen</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Mori Masaki</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Japan</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1983</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 83 minutes</span><br />
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Barefoot Gen is one of the most horrific animated films I have ever seen. It lulls you into a false sense of security with its sad but fairly innocuous portrayal of a poverty-stricken family in war torn Japan in August 1945, a few days before the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Their daily struggles and hardships are affecting but these pale in comparison to the soul-crushing scenes of devastation we see in the wake of the bomb when it comes crashing down on the city. The first on-screen death we witness following the explosion is that of a young innocent girl clutching a doll as the intense heat rips her skin from her bones and her eyeballs are torn violently from her sockets. The shock of this impact leaves you reeling but the film continues to assault your senses with a barrage of disturbing imagery that would not feel out of place in a horror film. The ensuing carnage is genuinely unsettling and the overwhelming sense of dread is exacerbated by the emotionally draining scenes of death and destruction which befall Gen and his family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywu3nEmuVNFHM14gwlXspNEdPqxvvDN2L4jTSLRvLdL6KTECwEz4VZQAlQLIAbc_EWWp5h1wuD1ULx9_bjDiDgWj7mdasp89JbAgv2lkAKwE9fSNu-QLN00Jii4ZIWmtitd99mcUbDAU/s1600/barefoot+gen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="337" data-original-width="450" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywu3nEmuVNFHM14gwlXspNEdPqxvvDN2L4jTSLRvLdL6KTECwEz4VZQAlQLIAbc_EWWp5h1wuD1ULx9_bjDiDgWj7mdasp89JbAgv2lkAKwE9fSNu-QLN00Jii4ZIWmtitd99mcUbDAU/s320/barefoot+gen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The use of animation allows the film-makers to depict the ferociousness of the initial explosion and the subsequent fallout in ways that would not be possible in a live action film, and this enables the animators to showcase some incredibly dark and troubling scenarios. Make no mistake, this is a far cry from a Studio Ghibli film, with scenes of unflinching brutality that will sear their way onto your retinas and leave an indelible scar on your psyche like the unforgettable bombing at Hiroshima that continues to haunt its inhabitants today. The heavy themes it explores and the heartbreaking story it tells are clearly aimed at a mature audience, even though we experience the harrowing circumstances of the bombing through the struggles of a young boy. A boy who is thrust into the realm of adulthood far too early by virtue of the horrific ordeal he faces.<br />
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Gen is fortunate enough to belong to a loving family comprising of doting parents, a caring older sister, and a younger brother that he playfully fights with over any scraps of food they can get their hands on. His mother is heavily pregnant and his father is desperately trying to provide for the family in a society where food is scarce and the population is starving. This is a family unit that stick together through the hard times but nothing can prepare them for the life-altering events that will completely destroy any semblance of leading a normal existence ever again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6DNVqznKZUwcjeMtm-Uij4HlUlz0-y5syJXjQIo7Kjhj1Wq-OcJvfXxVFrtWxiDqmnTN5qneo7yyR1i62cZc1lyV8ze42ytOpAmjVzJgcxjvtj4HZTjJrH1nNcE7_oScT3G2W2fNncc/s1600/barefoot+gen+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="309" data-original-width="550" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6DNVqznKZUwcjeMtm-Uij4HlUlz0-y5syJXjQIo7Kjhj1Wq-OcJvfXxVFrtWxiDqmnTN5qneo7yyR1i62cZc1lyV8ze42ytOpAmjVzJgcxjvtj4HZTjJrH1nNcE7_oScT3G2W2fNncc/s320/barefoot+gen+3.jpg" width="320" /></a>The stirring voice acting provides a real indication of the horror experienced by Gen and those close to him, making it a prerequisite for the original Japanese audio to be favoured over the jarring English dubbing track. Issei Miyazaki brings an endearing naivety to Gen's voice that is soon unseated and replaced with a raw sense of the tragic situation which engulfs him. As is the case with a lot of anime films the character's expressions are often exaggerated and this serves the emotionally distressing nature of the film well, heightening the impact of those scenes which resonate the most; particularly during the intimate heartbreak as Gen is separated from members of his family.<br />
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A traditional Japanese soundtrack instills the film with an evocative soundscape that chimes with the humble nature of Gen's upbringing as we are introduced to his family's simple way of life. This eventually gives way to a crescendo of ear-splitting explosions that leave an eerie and uncomfortable silence in their wake. When we move into the final third of the film, the score becomes awash with haunting melodies that tie in with the overwhelming regret and pain that consumes our devastated protagonist throughout his attempts to survive this living nightmare.<br />
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The visions of hell that Barefoot Gen depicts are pure nightmare fuel and you will certainly be haunted by the unforgettable scene when Gen utters the memorable line 'What hell is this? during a moment of pure terror. It makes you reflect upon the travesty of the human race's proliferation of violent and callous weapons of mass destruction, and strikes fear into your heart that advancements in weaponry continue to pose a dangerous threat to humanity.<br />
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The tragic tale of Barefoot Gen is a bleak and relentlessly harrowing experience to endure and the heartbreak continues in the sequel directed by Toshio Hirata. It briefly recaps the events of the first film before showcasing Gen's continuing struggle for survival as the effects of the radiation poisoning continue to ravage Hiroshima. Whilst not quite as impactful as its predecessor, it is still a worthy companion piece that serves to enhance our understanding of the aftermath and is essential viewing for those who are touched by the poignancy of the first outing.<br />
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Barefoot Gen offers a powerful and devastating history lesson in a beautifully realised film and it hits home in ways that you might never expect from an animated war feature. Its depressing subject matter is handled with a real care and is faithful to the prominent Manga series it is based upon. The trauma and grief resonates deeply as Gen traverses the dark and disturbing aftermath of the shocking incident that befell Hiroshima, ensuring that this exceptional piece of film-making will stay with you forever, even if you try to push aside the haunting imagery that makes this such a powerful work of art.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Barefoot Gen then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Ir1LriQtrA" width="320"></iframe><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-14535474475394830182019-07-14T12:18:00.002+01:002019-07-14T12:18:44.805+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 50. Fireworks Wednesday<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrkIWJrmAhORP3KdFf_DjRnN_Aw511ok7oDH9ZM8yOilgYJVQqlNjwe4fE_2LKAj-2AWmhx-9o6RMK_p51MP5BVX-trtdvWhVDhvHRY3qv7Bp8L5Ru2MdhjaYHfNe7ieGNWlOw0qh9f4/s1600/fireworks+wednesday+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrkIWJrmAhORP3KdFf_DjRnN_Aw511ok7oDH9ZM8yOilgYJVQqlNjwe4fE_2LKAj-2AWmhx-9o6RMK_p51MP5BVX-trtdvWhVDhvHRY3qv7Bp8L5Ru2MdhjaYHfNe7ieGNWlOw0qh9f4/s320/fireworks+wednesday+poster.jpg" width="226" /></a><b>Fireworks Wednesday</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Asghar Farhadi</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iran</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2006</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 104 minutes</span><br />
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Prying in other people's affairs and indulging in idle gossip can cause unintentional hurt and upset, especially when false assumptions are made because the truth is shrouded. This is one of the enthralling conceits that is explored in Asghar Farhadi's tempestuous drama, Fireworks Wednesday, which follows a soon to be married Iranian lady, Roohi (Taraneh Alidoosti), who takes a cleaning job at an apartment for Morteza (Hamid Farokhnezhad) and Mozhde (Hediyeh Tehrani), a husband and wife on the verge of splitting up. Through the course of a single day we are drawn into a web of lies and deceit instigated by Mozdhe's suspicion that her husband is having an affair with their next door neighbour, Simin (Pantea Bahram) - a single woman who is using her apartment as a beauty salon against the wishes of their landlord. We witness the emotional trauma and fallout as Roohi becomes embroiled in the couple's lives and her inquisitive nature interferes in an already uncomfortable situation that exacerbates as the day progresses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0Ci_OYncHxy9_zBobEGTE58HigW8MaDbni8EV86EGo-0rcY_459IkIQnZXp7zA6xuG5tCp_WqncPhHbDbPpt7Njj7mmJUQrYCcbINRDgCO_irWZt-ut8wkZKP3iN3hleSPryy8pIywg/s1600/fireworks+wednesday+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="512" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0Ci_OYncHxy9_zBobEGTE58HigW8MaDbni8EV86EGo-0rcY_459IkIQnZXp7zA6xuG5tCp_WqncPhHbDbPpt7Njj7mmJUQrYCcbINRDgCO_irWZt-ut8wkZKP3iN3hleSPryy8pIywg/s320/fireworks+wednesday+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
During the introduction to this gripping drama we see and hear only that which Roohi does, leaving us as intrigued and curious about the couple's problems as she is. We learn that their heated arguments are often overheard by the neighbours and their young son, Amir (Matin Heydarnia), who is distressed by the constant bickering between his parents. It is unclear if there is growing resentment between Morteza and Mozhde due to an affair taking place or if Mozhde's suspicions are unfounded, but there are obviously some unresolved issues which are driving them apart. Roohi comes into this situation blind and, although she tries to help those who show her compassion, her meddling in that which she does not understand leads to more harm than good.<br />
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Alidoosti is sublime as the young bride to be, whose unsubtle attempts at eavesdropping entangle her in the quarreling couple's duplicity. She provides her character with a real sense of naive charm as we see Roohi trying to uncover the truth without causing any more hurt. The torment suffered by Mozdhe as she grapples with her husband's assumed infidelity is portrayed with a raw intensity by Tehrani. The devastating blows and setbacks she experiences are handled adeptly by Tehrani, imbuing her emotionally drained housewife with the anguish you would expect to see from a woman in such an uncompromising situation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMUmnnwz2nCiOiwevoQ3rtYaN6-0StM5IekKP6agVmPUx0E85VmwGUOAtCuinXJr76ufYySiqL3nZMIt8q1VsNaiND6Jo2cVhEi2X2iLrJLjzcqGIFg-VzmfiYqY4xlbz__FFGD4rdtM/s1600/fireworks+wednesday+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMUmnnwz2nCiOiwevoQ3rtYaN6-0StM5IekKP6agVmPUx0E85VmwGUOAtCuinXJr76ufYySiqL3nZMIt8q1VsNaiND6Jo2cVhEi2X2iLrJLjzcqGIFg-VzmfiYqY4xlbz__FFGD4rdtM/s320/fireworks+wednesday+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>There are elements of unlikeable characteristics within most of the people we meet in Fireworks Wednesday, due to the very nature of the subject matter, although none more so than Morteza. His cold and hostile treatment of Mozdhe pushes her to the end of her tether, and Farokhnezhad demonstrates Morteza's ruthless behaviour with a chilling depiction of a volatile and careless husband. We are exposed to his tender side in a crucial scene that shows Morteza has a heart, even if its path is misguided, and the strain this has on his marriage echoes in his actions as pangs of regret bubble away under the surface.<br />
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The neighbour Mozdhe suspects her husband is having an affair with, Simin, is a mysterious character but she takes a shine to Roohi, who poses as her niece to prevent drawing attention to her illicit business venture when the landlord visits during a beauty treatment. Simin is completely unaware that Roohi has been sent by Mozdhe to probe for clues, and this incident kindles a friendship forged on lies and only serves to muddy the waters further in Roohi's search for the truth.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxk5eruaAdRHr53eME2CRhA5wTqnvyl4kPFhcLep1Tr7HdV081aACeUbYHfg6q8tHzW29eQpDPvGXQeuCoOgPo-wteWvCwsjRbvjzByTuYAH0kA7vsCY3L0oW78dhpl3Se_RExAITC_A/s1600/fireworks+wednesday+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="696" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxk5eruaAdRHr53eME2CRhA5wTqnvyl4kPFhcLep1Tr7HdV081aACeUbYHfg6q8tHzW29eQpDPvGXQeuCoOgPo-wteWvCwsjRbvjzByTuYAH0kA7vsCY3L0oW78dhpl3Se_RExAITC_A/s320/fireworks+wednesday+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
With the drama unfolding close to real time over the course of a single day we are pulled into a world of lies and deceit where people become victims of their own undoing and we become firmly invested in their plights. This harsh and poignant portrayal of a marriage in crisis is a superb vehicle for a remarkable cast of actors at the hands of an accomplished director, and the stark realism of Fireworks Wednesday is a credit to the talent involved.<br />
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Although most of the action is confined to the couple's apartment complex there are a number of striking scenes taking place elsewhere. A beautiful sequence at the start of the film shows the enchanting symmetry in a reflection of Roohi's hand as she drifts it through the fresh air outside of a bus window. A haunting incident at Morteza's place of work is tied inextricably to the movement of the building's lift as the camera mimics its descent and rise in a striking use of framing. These moments offer inventive imagery that serves to highlight Farhadi's impressive grasp of the medium, and help to bring his storytelling to life in a way that resonates both visually and emotionally.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-tSxhnXTaTPjDEUSWmficpGQMIb0TifW6gh2_fdNTsYTnTYUQQS2kVZ7lKbjnV1SOtT7HfC2eklM37JUFZRvi0cAMwONbDT5thcRYeF_BFYmTwDGw8EHVG4bqR-WxujVq8CZyQP5gfI/s1600/fireworks+wednesday+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-tSxhnXTaTPjDEUSWmficpGQMIb0TifW6gh2_fdNTsYTnTYUQQS2kVZ7lKbjnV1SOtT7HfC2eklM37JUFZRvi0cAMwONbDT5thcRYeF_BFYmTwDGw8EHVG4bqR-WxujVq8CZyQP5gfI/s320/fireworks+wednesday+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>It is telling that the Fireworks caused through human interactions are far more exciting than the actual fireworks we see, and these explosions of rage are matched in intensity by the compelling scenes in which characters face up to the truth, no matter how difficult this may be. Fireworks Wednesday is a real gem of Iranian cinema; this is a film that encompasses all of the hallmarks of a powerful and stirring drama, with a delicate touch that enables the stories subtleties to seep into your conscience as you ponder the beguiling creation of a master film-maker at work.<br />
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Farhadi has been crafting intricate and suspenseful character studies for much of his illustrious career and reached international acclaim with his Oscar winning film, A Separation (2011), that explored many similar themes to Fireworks Wednesday. His films offer a fascinating insight into Iranian society and the tragic human dramas he depicts can be as enthralling as they are devastating. Fireworks Wednesday stands out from his other earlier forays into film with its masterful storytelling and emotionally engaging performances from the leads, whose passionate renditions enhance its crushing impact.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Fireworks Wednesday then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-81249736677632235612019-07-04T21:16:00.001+01:002019-07-04T21:16:49.435+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 49. The Miracle Worker<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9i8B7W1QFKnzl0xv-GZM9f1Jrg7VGaMcCVEegFrA9_tUiiQtheIqqFtaWioCk-MoU-IcchBsrX_zyACVil8AKCknCAjTqf1ocBH0HvnEdj-O9D1FxnYArX-gBm04DJqaZFgDyHwITdo/s1600/the+miracle+worker+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9i8B7W1QFKnzl0xv-GZM9f1Jrg7VGaMcCVEegFrA9_tUiiQtheIqqFtaWioCk-MoU-IcchBsrX_zyACVil8AKCknCAjTqf1ocBH0HvnEdj-O9D1FxnYArX-gBm04DJqaZFgDyHwITdo/s320/the+miracle+worker+poster.jpg" width="259" /></a><br />
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<b>The Miracle Worker</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Arthur Penn</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">USA</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1962</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 106 minutes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We can try to imagine living in a world where we are unable to see or hear but this frightening concept is always short-lived for anyone who can open their eyes and uncover their ears. This unfathomable condition is an affliction that befell Helen Keller and left her in isolation from those around her when she became ill at just nineteen months old. Only one person, Annie Sullivan, who was half blind herself, had any faith in Helen’s ability to learn language and gain a further understanding of the world that she was shut out from. The Miracle Worker is a bold and captivating depiction of Annie's efforts to help and educate Helen - an inspirational true account of the emotionally charged development of a cruelly misunderstood young girl.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3dhUzxX3a9lFTqv7vRFORPEwCxrBPdm3bhHejCC6MmE3CrwkyubFhxJskyzENXaGk0LX1vd2D7F4IuWOSIpHO9wVh9htoriQy4Bo4kmS6GJRGGi-Y-R5k4hZnoK6Ta3k2F6IWIYN8lY/s1600/the+miracle+worker+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="550" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3dhUzxX3a9lFTqv7vRFORPEwCxrBPdm3bhHejCC6MmE3CrwkyubFhxJskyzENXaGk0LX1vd2D7F4IuWOSIpHO9wVh9htoriQy4Bo4kmS6GJRGGi-Y-R5k4hZnoK6Ta3k2F6IWIYN8lY/s320/the+miracle+worker+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The film’s events are based on Helen’s own autobiographical narrative of her formative years, although it explores this time of her life in far more detail, revealing the difficulties and intricacies involved in her attempts to grasp the concept of language. Helen is portrayed by Patty Duke in a physically and emotionally draining role that depicts the hurt and suffering Helen experienced at the hands of her family. A family who cared for Helen but were unable to communicate with her in a way that enabled her to understand the strange environment she inhabits. Anne Bancroft is exceptional in her role as Annie Sullivan, the miracle worker who acts as a catalyst for Helen’s development, retaining belief in Helen’s ability to learn when others had all but abandoned such doubtful notions.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmwZ8JXnY2HQYC7K4xhbJhvReDfAsicIf_rUcYH2wgl_dIu6prwJK3o32vU8SjlbXO0F7cAWHGTcsp2FxGnnSARs4Cr4MYUfrB-hiIegB69Z9pXe_jLw6OGe8-eBeryFzRzGZe_Uo-qE/s1600/the+miracle+worker+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="898" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmwZ8JXnY2HQYC7K4xhbJhvReDfAsicIf_rUcYH2wgl_dIu6prwJK3o32vU8SjlbXO0F7cAWHGTcsp2FxGnnSARs4Cr4MYUfrB-hiIegB69Z9pXe_jLw6OGe8-eBeryFzRzGZe_Uo-qE/s320/the+miracle+worker+2.jpg" width="249" /></a>
Annie's attempts to educate Helen initially prove disastrous; placing a difficult barrier in their relationship that leads Helen's parents, Captain Keller (Victor Jory) and Kate Keller (Inga Swenson), to reconsider if Annie is capable of easing their daughter's understandably ill-tempered and destructive ways. Progress is slow and proves challenging for Annie but - haunted by memories of her distressing past, and desperate to help Helen break out of her shell - she persists with her attempts at teaching words to Helen through a series of gestures with her hands. Helen's older brother James (Andrew Prine) mocks Annie for this approach, pointing out that Helen is merely mimicking the gestures she is shown but Annie remains steadfast, determined to connect with the troubled adolescent mind that is longing to escape her unnatural confinement.<br />
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The interplay between these two characters is fascinating to behold, particularly when their combined persistence overcomes seemingly insurmountable challenges and Helen’s development becomes more tangible. Together they have a vast mountain to climb and the film’s success hinges largely on the two captivating performers who draw you into a strange and unique plight that is depicted in an incredibly enthralling and heart-rending manner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rFLTV8J2XSBVG5heJqW73jdttXHOVr4aHW6H8WWtPJ-g4FLSQBV85AP4tifeFDFpMz09QZrM31VoKiMB4OWHw-kqDrzvFSsKkGLUyDsM_lcpqzaPO_B9Pu670qpXTJqnAngy2XBpxY4/s1600/the+miracle+worker+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="617" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rFLTV8J2XSBVG5heJqW73jdttXHOVr4aHW6H8WWtPJ-g4FLSQBV85AP4tifeFDFpMz09QZrM31VoKiMB4OWHw-kqDrzvFSsKkGLUyDsM_lcpqzaPO_B9Pu670qpXTJqnAngy2XBpxY4/s320/the+miracle+worker+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Duke's performance as Helen is absolutely phenomenal; her character's struggle is portrayed as a constant battle, with fiery outbursts that impinge on both her family and teacher. These torrents of rage are one of the only ways in which Helen is able to express herself and are the cause of much destruction and frustration in the Keller household. Duke's vivid facial expressions invite you into Helen's psyche, providing an insight into a troubled mind that Annie is longing to release from its shackles. Bancroft is likewise first rate as Annie, bringing an extraordinary warmth and charm to a character who is, at times, very curt and quite eccentric, but never loses sight of her goal to aid Helen. The burgeoning relationship between the two leads serves to fill the audience with hope as their powerhouse performances provide a raw intensity to an incredibly uplifting and revelatory story.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Arthur Penn is the intrepid director who adapted the hit stage play of The Miracle Worker into a film and the taut screenplay benefits from his distinct visual flair that is apparent from the opening credits. These initial scenes comprise of a montage of Helen reacting to the world around her, including a hauntingly evocative scene as she approaches a jet black reflective bauble on a Christmas tree that smashes when she reaches for it, hinting at the fragility of her grasp on the world she lives in. A similarly melancholic montage plays out when Keller's family decide to reach out for help from an institute for the blind, who send Annie Sullivan to answer their request for aid. When Annie travels by train to meet Helen, we are transported deep into her fragile mind through a series of hazy flashbacks that amalgamate with her present surroundings through the use of impressive and striking editing techniques.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25EmEhYCFbRlUtTDNgGPKWfNV_4IjFPlX7cawxE9dMFD7eQYajOMV_q5E1f3iVQ3kz_9qt_WxZpMEybInSD079EN0u2lh8XvzbuCGOkaWCxjVl2HkmDYXo_7e8dMupeukPulUvlR9GHc/s1600/the+miracle+worker+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="664" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25EmEhYCFbRlUtTDNgGPKWfNV_4IjFPlX7cawxE9dMFD7eQYajOMV_q5E1f3iVQ3kz_9qt_WxZpMEybInSD079EN0u2lh8XvzbuCGOkaWCxjVl2HkmDYXo_7e8dMupeukPulUvlR9GHc/s320/the+miracle+worker+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>When Penn isn't dazzling with his inventive imagery he is framing the action with a keen eye for composition, making the most of a story that, by its very nature, is limited to a handful of locations. He utilises long takes to capture the frustrations of both Helen and Annie during their heated fracas which serve as important life lessons for Helen. These powerful scenes reveal the stage play roots of The Miracle Worker but are embellished with flourishes that heighten the intensity in ways that would be impossible under the restrictions of a theatre production.<br />
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Both utterly compelling and devastatingly poignant, The Miracle Worker is a fascinating biographical account of a real life struggle to overcome a seemingly impossible challenge. This is a journey that we can all empathise with, and it is likely to fill your eyes with tears and your heart with joy, in what is undoubtedly an American classic. The Miracle Worker takes us to some dark and depressing places, with its stark and powerful realism demonstrated from the very first scenes. However, the cathartic journey that Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan embark upon makes for a rewarding viewing experience that will leave you astounded by the courage and determination of two remarkably inspirational women.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch The Miracle Worker then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pqS-s0Nnwfc" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-58845683204677726082019-06-28T17:17:00.002+01:002019-06-28T17:31:06.898+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 48. Kajaki<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivkJ_BZBw66Tst_mWEFddvlgg1zeOTpKMlHTyZ9Hzdq2C16MrBeIe7a_8vfZ7nGxqCsu5TmwcVmGA2hmk2V4RGk2Vd11U70EB7nuy57d299OZiVeuzolhV2kSqsFd8b3EyuNfg6BHzxg/s1600/kajaki+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="747" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivkJ_BZBw66Tst_mWEFddvlgg1zeOTpKMlHTyZ9Hzdq2C16MrBeIe7a_8vfZ7nGxqCsu5TmwcVmGA2hmk2V4RGk2Vd11U70EB7nuy57d299OZiVeuzolhV2kSqsFd8b3EyuNfg6BHzxg/s320/kajaki+poster.jpg" width="249" /></a><b>Kajaki</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Paul Katis</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">UK</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2014</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 108 minutes</span><br />
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Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk is a masterclass in how to create tension in a war film and is even more impressive when you consider the
enemy is never shown on screen. Kajaki is a similarly intense war film based
upon a true account that ratchets up the tension to unbearable levels with an
unseen enemy causing havoc for a company of British soldiers stationed in Afghanistan.
Whereas the fleeing English are pursued by Nazis in Dunkirk, the unseen danger
in Kajaki is a cluster of unexploded anti-personnel mines in a scorching, dried out river-bed, where any
movement could set off a barrage of explosions.<br />
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It is here where a company of relatively inexperienced soldiers
face almost insurmountable odds of survival and must pull together to
courageously overcome one of the greatest threats they may ever encounter. The build up to these dramatic events establishes the various personalities present in the company with the usual gung-ho antics and machismo conversations you may come to expect from a war film but it also sheds light on the human side of these soldiers as they nervously wait to be called into action. By
utilising a largely unknown British cast, director Paul Katis has ensured that
we are completely in the dark as to who will survive from the unit and this leaves us as shell-shocked as the company whenever an explosion takes place.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEVawuu607LQM5e-LWQ9w4tLVxCXHBoCqUbUBd1ydzypP4FS7eEiwPW3fDa42ur20EPDjB0y3Y9RevD71NRDQ45w3T5AyAqXEC2M7GXxUlrChQOBBrkFwS_xeKW4VVyoKvIomKTH5fKvc/s1600/KAJAKI+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEVawuu607LQM5e-LWQ9w4tLVxCXHBoCqUbUBd1ydzypP4FS7eEiwPW3fDa42ur20EPDjB0y3Y9RevD71NRDQ45w3T5AyAqXEC2M7GXxUlrChQOBBrkFwS_xeKW4VVyoKvIomKTH5fKvc/s320/KAJAKI+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The desolate surroundings of the company's base provide a stunning backdrop to the film's events, a backdrop which Katis uses to his advantage with a handful of sumptuous establishing shots. The lifeless desert terrain and its occasional pockets of water, which the soldiers take great pleasure in using for a refreshing dip, exhibit the traits of an idyllic setting, albeit a grossly misleading one. Potential enemy activity nearby breaks the spell of the naturally beautiful environment and engages the momentum of the story as a group of intrepid soldiers head out to investigate and do their duty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1X7FGHAWtokn2UM3AWYm30VzT-AP8AvZQTlniTlJqrAE8c2xUMl0nJ_Ms-4KYlHpCyXbljtDYFktz81QOaIWuv-5ah10kr3squ048EvHPAx6ntJ-5dFXrtR1J5pOE0qxfoI9s1H7GfU/s1600/Kajaki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="750" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1X7FGHAWtokn2UM3AWYm30VzT-AP8AvZQTlniTlJqrAE8c2xUMl0nJ_Ms-4KYlHpCyXbljtDYFktz81QOaIWuv-5ah10kr3squ048EvHPAx6ntJ-5dFXrtR1J5pOE0qxfoI9s1H7GfU/s320/Kajaki.jpg" width="320" /></a>From the
moment the first mine explodes we are thrust into a shocking and upsetting life or death situation. This has a huge impact on the emotional state of the
servicemen who see their unit slowly falling to pieces around them, as well as being a distressing turn of events for the audience. Katis pulls no punches in showing the gory
aftermath of the explosions as these young soldiers inadvertently set off numerous mines. The horrific wounds are displayed in
all of their grisly detail; heightening the sense of realism and making the
stomach churning situation even more uncomfortable and nerve-wracking for the
viewer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWA58iJvBHFVPyG4UdftY4sX1vwWRXhoFhtF4UNW3_0VN3tsS-rBhl_UNQkIBCGIujzC8KvABBUfemYlKlpNfFptS6xympv5Hx4wNOyTLt9xQkEiBSJ-tZ3QVtht9XNvtI1AMCdSjf_o/s1600/KAJAKI+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="620" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWA58iJvBHFVPyG4UdftY4sX1vwWRXhoFhtF4UNW3_0VN3tsS-rBhl_UNQkIBCGIujzC8KvABBUfemYlKlpNfFptS6xympv5Hx4wNOyTLt9xQkEiBSJ-tZ3QVtht9XNvtI1AMCdSjf_o/s320/KAJAKI+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is as much of an endurance test for the audience as it is for the company of soldiers who find themselves at the mercy of an unforgiving environment. There may be a handful of ill-advised decisions during the life altering events we witness but it's easy to look back on the situation with hindsight, and far more difficult to imagine if you would be able to act with such conviction and bravery in the same situation. Being able to put your own life at risk for the safety of others whose lives depend on your courageous actions is an inspiring and selfless personality trait to possess, and many of the soldiers are willing to do just that. The intensity of the situation exacerbates until it becomes a harrowing nightmare; a nightmare that we could easily switch off (if we were affected enough to do so) but those who experienced it first hand had to endure, using all of their strength and willpower if they were to have any chance of surviving to see another day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pCd0UVuFr09WFlG6kBDCY3EfU7ffboagPbTOr6PxN-M_jk8Aaf7Z8YXs8Uy-QzrdedSu5wr4uL0zbsO6QUyYDB-Un9dd_eV7Yd4uUuDdFHVqEAC-rqILZA3bzPBF21Fk5x8liE7wH48/s1600/KAJAKI+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="928" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pCd0UVuFr09WFlG6kBDCY3EfU7ffboagPbTOr6PxN-M_jk8Aaf7Z8YXs8Uy-QzrdedSu5wr4uL0zbsO6QUyYDB-Un9dd_eV7Yd4uUuDdFHVqEAC-rqILZA3bzPBF21Fk5x8liE7wH48/s320/KAJAKI+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>A powerful and heart wrenching coda details the aftermath for those involved alongside<br />
photos of the real life heroic soldiers, adding an overwhelming sense of emotion to what is already an incredibly draining and disturbing film. This sad story has been retold with the utmost of respect to the devastated men who were there on the fateful day of the incident. Writer Tom Williams doesn't judge or condone anyone's actions and presents his account without bias to allow the audience to form their own views on where the mission falls down. Kajaki is a gripping and poignant anti-war film that demonstrates the horrific and long lasting effect war can have on the countries that are ravaged by its evil nature. This is an important and impressive feature film debut from Paul Katis and marks him as a promising director who we should all be looking out for in the future.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Kajaki then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-55918713586784011892019-06-19T23:08:00.001+01:002019-06-19T23:08:52.796+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 47. Cafe De Flore<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
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<div style="text-align: start;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWLL_3MDjhMaHt9Bpgi8T8J2JwVkl5UwijZ9iXLz7bo2c9EpdLNreavig9g0sPflRfB5O56SuOkZmbDnR_HkdlqHSBQoPcPVcRRB18WFMTtPDBxshTmUknRb9bRMRry11cix0Koj-voo/s1600/cafe+de+flore+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWLL_3MDjhMaHt9Bpgi8T8J2JwVkl5UwijZ9iXLz7bo2c9EpdLNreavig9g0sPflRfB5O56SuOkZmbDnR_HkdlqHSBQoPcPVcRRB18WFMTtPDBxshTmUknRb9bRMRry11cix0Koj-voo/s320/cafe+de+flore+poster.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="221" /></a><b>Cafe De Flore</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>Jean-Marc Vallee</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Canada</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>2011</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 120 minutes</span><br />
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Cafe de Flore is a bold and beautiful depiction of love and the profound connections forged between those whose souls align and intertwine. Clearly inspired by Krystof Kiezlowski's The Double Life of Veronique; its twin narrative takes the audience to two separate times and places as director Jean-Marc Vallee flouts a traditional approach to storytelling in his daring exploration of spiritual and metaphysical elements that tangle together from each of the fascinating storylines. As the connection between these separate strands becomes clearer it ignites an influx of introspection and contemplation surrounding the director's mysterious intentions. This heartfelt and deeply emotional journey may not always hold up under close scrutiny but the evocative moments depicted throughout Cafe De Flore convey a wealth of sensations that conjure up a truly tantalising viewing experience.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuGuVcVz0whCLb36Nx6wrHf4Z-SHBONn3E-RvFs5MhI00fqK_ELWUBHs-mPE7dPoc4vkzT8LMYARZ6tgf6UEIFKym8OgSDOYX6KvN97MYopKGakrusoAW-vot_0vt0ApvV2hVLdYaqr0/s1600/cafe+de+flore+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1600" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuGuVcVz0whCLb36Nx6wrHf4Z-SHBONn3E-RvFs5MhI00fqK_ELWUBHs-mPE7dPoc4vkzT8LMYARZ6tgf6UEIFKym8OgSDOYX6KvN97MYopKGakrusoAW-vot_0vt0ApvV2hVLdYaqr0/s320/cafe+de+flore+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Our first exposure to Vallee's distinct vision is an intimate farewell at a Canadian airport in the present day where Antoine Godin (Kevin Parent) says goodbye to a woman and two young girls. This departure implies we are witnessing a husband leaving his wife and daughters for a flight but it transpires he has left his wife, Carole (Helene Florent), - and the mother of his children - three years ago, and the lady he embraces for one last time before he boards his plane is his new (and much younger) girlfriend, Rose (Evelyne Brochu). Antoine's job as a DJ involves travelling the world and this brief farewell is the first of many difficult departures that occur throughout both strands of the story. Connections between the two segments are perceptible from this very first scene but will elude first time viewers who will not have the requisite knowledge of what is yet to come in order to grasp the subtle clues as they pass by.<br />
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The second story transports us back in time to Paris in the 1960s where a young mother, Jacqueline (Vanessa Paradis), gives birth to her son, Laurent, who happens to have Down's syndrome. Her husband's distress at this occurrence is the cause of the film's second departure when he abandons the mother of his newborn son, leaving Jacqueline to raise Laurent as a single parent. Jacqueline's steadfast devotion to her baby demonstrates a passionate love that grows as he blossoms into a young boy. From here onwards the subtle parallels between the two storylines become more apparent and attentive viewers will take great delight in piecing together the parts of this intricate puzzle as they attempt to understand the mystical, and incredibly satisfying, correlation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTatxDyHt2fbT3fGI4jaKZ115Kv06FOqObCaYhnNqhR4ECsidKP_Ldwxs6rrWejP5n8rN8Azy78AnV_Y4t_f0udwm8n-4HCJYxidRwDIG5QW7js_c8nHJk0Zhka2oT61cH9WvmJ4-Hjfk/s1600/cafe+de+flore+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="842" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTatxDyHt2fbT3fGI4jaKZ115Kv06FOqObCaYhnNqhR4ECsidKP_Ldwxs6rrWejP5n8rN8Azy78AnV_Y4t_f0udwm8n-4HCJYxidRwDIG5QW7js_c8nHJk0Zhka2oT61cH9WvmJ4-Hjfk/s320/cafe+de+flore+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Credit is due to Marin Gerrier, the young actor with Down's syndrome who plays Laurent, in an impressive debut performance - the inexorable bond he shares with his on screen mother appears genuine throughout - and it is a shame that he has not been seen on screen since. Laurent's loving attachment to Jacqueline depicts a beautiful relationship that only comes into question with the arrival of a young girl (who also has Down's syndrome) who joins his class at school. This development is the cause of much heartache for Jacqueline, and is demonstrated by the sheer passion Paradis injects into her role, as her steadfast devotion to Laurent's every need is no longer reciprocated by the unwavering intense love they once shared.<br />
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Shocking scenes of anguish and despair follow, along with a handful of eerie sequences that echo the techniques used by horror film directors when exploring the psychological pain of their tormented protagonists. By branching out into unexpected territory in this manner, Vallee heightens the pervading sense of spirituality as moments of deja vu cause ripples across both timelines and toy with the audiences curiosity - a curiosity that inevitably holds steadfast as the fascinating story unfolds in a mesmerising fashion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznxKybBpdvCTQXNj0qHAAYwsMK1eVeMYjBb943RhqTTEvv13U09MxUarjeS_ocEL5uVdwpWEZVOSLi-2577u0kNM5chBh40uH3Yoas2xbm2LkfsPiywQILvy7_-xMtF4eAFKXQEcaw1Y/s1600/cafe+de+flore+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="500" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznxKybBpdvCTQXNj0qHAAYwsMK1eVeMYjBb943RhqTTEvv13U09MxUarjeS_ocEL5uVdwpWEZVOSLi-2577u0kNM5chBh40uH3Yoas2xbm2LkfsPiywQILvy7_-xMtF4eAFKXQEcaw1Y/s320/cafe+de+flore+5.png" width="320" /></a>Returning to present day Canada we learn that Antoine is haunted by past memories he shared with his ex-wife, Carole, and her presence is missed not just by Antoine and his two daughters, but by his own parents, who both make their feelings known to him. Antoine and Carole share amicable greetings whenever their children exchange hands and these encounters weigh down on Antoine's relatively new relationship with Rose, as her jealousy adds additional strain to his current state of being. Parent brings an imposing raw energy to his portrayal of Antoine; an energy that is matched by Brochu as Rose, particularly as she lights up the screen with her alluring smile and sultry dance moves when we see them meet for the first time in a vivid recollection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TunEDTN2rP8ThbI4AZrwq4QV5p_F3thgI9dAUA9f_SPj4Ct5EDmPQH52HY_nBRNIwKoQ-bv-XZ1XeuGTKZu2VBXOL8qWJzMOrqttOYCYwGdVTJWeC3CB1LsKGuj4NqhZUuOzjJSKmNQ/s1600/cafe+de+flore+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="700" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TunEDTN2rP8ThbI4AZrwq4QV5p_F3thgI9dAUA9f_SPj4Ct5EDmPQH52HY_nBRNIwKoQ-bv-XZ1XeuGTKZu2VBXOL8qWJzMOrqttOYCYwGdVTJWeC3CB1LsKGuj4NqhZUuOzjJSKmNQ/s320/cafe+de+flore+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We travel back to Antoine's past in a number of beautifully realised sequences that depict his teenage years with Carole and the blossoming romance they once shared. The young actors in these roles, Emile Vallee and Chanel Fontaine, convey a natural innocence that heightens the sense of sorrow around the breakdown of their relationship in years to come. This constant sorrow and despair can be overwhelming in parts but Vallee always pulls the mood back with sequences of pure unadulterated bliss, and the contrast between these two juxtaposing elements takes you on an emotional journey almost as demanding as those experienced by his characters<br />
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How you interpret and react to the eventual union of the two thematically similar strands is likely to be indicative of your enjoyment of the film as a whole, and perhaps explains why Cafe De Flore is considered by many to be a divisive film. Vallee's vibrant imagery and inventive use of music throughout paint an enrapturing picture with sequences that resonate on a level that stirs up forgotten memories of past experiences. The subtle bliss of the title song Cafe De Flore gradually transforms into a haunting elegy as its music accompanies defining moments in both of the storylines. This visually stunning and incredibly spiritual approach to film-making will certainly appeal to those who are attuned to artistic expression and do not shy away from experimental works, but it also risks alienating audiences who prefer a more conventional method of storytelling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0W_nxMoKs7rxAk0kPmK5HlyMAt2c0kLebzD_UI5QevrwlvFivDHDJxbUwtuW3U4z3APmZKJS14yNZNwdI8ovkXxb5ufPTp_4eZQIUrs8NzyfUDWLbEUDm5vUvp8uEoIl_z8RvbkOgUk/s1600/cafe+de+flore+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="630" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0W_nxMoKs7rxAk0kPmK5HlyMAt2c0kLebzD_UI5QevrwlvFivDHDJxbUwtuW3U4z3APmZKJS14yNZNwdI8ovkXxb5ufPTp_4eZQIUrs8NzyfUDWLbEUDm5vUvp8uEoIl_z8RvbkOgUk/s320/cafe+de+flore+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>Flashbacks and flash forwards are handled with a style and panache that, at times, sees the images from both stories merge or collide, further cementing the crossover of world's that permeates the film's central themes. Each facet of the film evokes an aching poignancy for lost loves and failed relationships, delving deep into the hearts and minds of its key characters. Vallee has a flair for fascinating visuals, possessing a keen eye that respects the delicate intricacies of his set pieces. He finds the time to linger on his actors when they display the purest and rawest of emotions, heightening his meticulous work and creating breathtaking scenes of real power that mesmerise time and time again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXEJqCgY4RBntI_Vb8zgCzU8suIp6N1uHgHwi-U93LIe0z4ovUMZP93poTQxLCTN3vwfPbr90LclVxCbnhnA5XmagYlwKSFadAqqLkcV9adSE6wHSAamJhaYb8y3JPI9hpkTPSFAO-tk/s1600/cafe+de+flore+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXEJqCgY4RBntI_Vb8zgCzU8suIp6N1uHgHwi-U93LIe0z4ovUMZP93poTQxLCTN3vwfPbr90LclVxCbnhnA5XmagYlwKSFadAqqLkcV9adSE6wHSAamJhaYb8y3JPI9hpkTPSFAO-tk/s320/cafe+de+flore+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Cafe De Flore is a stunning piece of art that explores the enthralling possibilities of the cinematic medium whilst providing audiences with a gripping scenario that plays out in an imaginative and original manner. This is an intricate film that rewards repeat viewings and continues to offer up new surprises on each return visit. The meticulous and enchanting visuals combine with the accompanying soundtrack to bore deep into your subconscious; stirring up an emotional response with a magnitude that is rarely experienced whilst watching a film - but should always be treasured when it does. Jean-Marc Vallee's unconventional but flavourful approach to directing found the perfect subject matter to explore in Cafe De Flore, and this bittersweet tale of romance rises above its unusual structure to deliver a sublime encounter with heartache that demands your utmost attention.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Cafe De Flore then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8722202666233579262.post-47528684947500975712019-06-15T07:34:00.000+01:002019-06-28T13:18:30.893+01:00100 Essential Films That Deserve More Attention - 46. Sorcerer<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<i style="text-align: justify;">People embrace the enchanting glow of the big screen for all manner of reasons; to journey to faraway places they could only ever imagine, to experience the escapism of a captivating story, or maybe to indulge in an obsession with the world of cinema. For me, all three of these reasons apply - and many more - but first and foremost is the satisfaction of recommending obscure films to other like-minded individuals who adopt them as their new favourites.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>With over 100 years worth of films to choose from, and many of these now available at the click of a button, it can be extremely difficult to narrow your choices down to pick a film to watch. Although cinema has been around for over four times longer than my life on this earth, I have spent what some may consider an unhealthy amount of these years delving into the history of films to discover some of the best hidden gems out there.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">This series of articles aims to highlight the overlooked masterpieces that I have unearthed whilst exploring the forgotten recesses of cinema. Take a gamble on any one of these films and I guarantee that you will be eagerly awaiting all future instalments in this series. You may well have heard of a number of these films; my aim isn't merely to shine a spotlight on the most obscure films out there, but to share my enjoyment of those films which don't have the cult following I believe they deserve.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCNP5UdY9NxRvwcIHIWjaEWk9ELLR_b8kNDeDzOFR9npIylxrdoSs493FYe0hSDg3u15wMxokH4nZ9_Er9dP1fbMOgmVwrw2Oo0BjXvHDCFeJEJnR5KkafmBrS_l6_oMJJQS5FMDWYbw/s1600/Sorcerer+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCNP5UdY9NxRvwcIHIWjaEWk9ELLR_b8kNDeDzOFR9npIylxrdoSs493FYe0hSDg3u15wMxokH4nZ9_Er9dP1fbMOgmVwrw2Oo0BjXvHDCFeJEJnR5KkafmBrS_l6_oMJJQS5FMDWYbw/s320/Sorcerer+poster.jpg" width="216" /></a><b>Sorcerer</b><br />
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Director - </b>William Friedkin</div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Country</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;"> - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">USA</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Year </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- </b>1977</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Runtime </b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>-</b> 121 minutes</span><br />
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After making his mark on the American cinematic landscape with The French Connection and The Exorcist, director William Friedkin boldy decided to tackle a loose remake of Henri-Georges Clouzot's thrilling French masterpiece, The Wages of Fear, which was also based upon the novel by Georges Arnaud. His magnificent vision of the existential thriller involved months of filming in South American jungles in a move that bears similarities to Herzog's ambitious and wonderful follies; Aguirre, The Wrath of God and Fitzcarraldo. Production costs spiralled and the studios backing the film made huge losses when it was released only a week before a certain film by George Lucas, sadly ushering it into obscurity and almost consigning the film to history as it languished untouched for many years before being recut and restored for modern audiences.<br />
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The version we see today isn't vastly different from that which was presented in 1977 but the addition of a stirring Tangerine Dream soundtrack and the essential inclusion of each of the main character's back stories at the start of the film (some of these scenes were removed or inserted as flashbacks in a number of the film's international releases) heighten the intensity of the nail-biting scenario and add important character development. As in Clouzot's stirring adaptation the story focuses on four downtrodden men from various walks of life who take on the unenviable and lucrative task of transporting volatile explosives over incredibly precarious terrain to help stem the fire from an explosion at a distant oil field. One false move could spell certain disaster for these fearless drivers as they traverse long forgotten tracks through the jungle, and encounter all manner of dangerous obstacles such as rickety bridges, impenetrable foliage and violent bandits.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGmB-vScEAHPyuQwydGuXL_oMw0YVI-VodoEQZ2qILdC7eE0BQXp895frLN-XAFBQiKKWRmyMX91Spsg6WzQdBBTm2ZGz_pPDUcRR1fKKvFCjz9_gLguR5sEmrM0FEqNSQOR1XeXBzmc/s1600/sorcerer+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGmB-vScEAHPyuQwydGuXL_oMw0YVI-VodoEQZ2qILdC7eE0BQXp895frLN-XAFBQiKKWRmyMX91Spsg6WzQdBBTm2ZGz_pPDUcRR1fKKvFCjz9_gLguR5sEmrM0FEqNSQOR1XeXBzmc/s320/sorcerer+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sorcerer is a real slow burner of a film - the perilous journey doesn't commence until almost an hour in - but by the time it gets going we are fully invested in the fate of the four desparate men as they take what could be the only chance to escape their hellish lives in the tropics. The intriguing setup provides invaluable insight into why they have all ended up in this uninviting part of the world, working for a pittance in a place where they are unlikely to ever be found by those from their past lives who might be seeking them. These scenes help us to understand what drives the protagonists and enable us to harbour an emotional investment as they come face to face with one of the most life-threatening challenges they could ever experience.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eRCN1-Y0mr-vnWOLKkOT0skZ-K85kUnvA0TTrqhPZb0h3eVCBgGdgXxnUjX4yju_hL8dTuRumCbIzPl3D2wj7sRcPXcQf7i0H3LtkhA_0crO4yTbmM2ISWIoPjyFzlsS9vk3Skf-vxw/s1600/sorcerer+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="720" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eRCN1-Y0mr-vnWOLKkOT0skZ-K85kUnvA0TTrqhPZb0h3eVCBgGdgXxnUjX4yju_hL8dTuRumCbIzPl3D2wj7sRcPXcQf7i0H3LtkhA_0crO4yTbmM2ISWIoPjyFzlsS9vk3Skf-vxw/s320/sorcerer+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Friedkin poured his heart into the creation of Sorcerer and there are many elaborate scenes that <br />
showcase his unbridled passion for this project. One of the standout sequences is when the drivers attempt to transport the trucks across an almost impassable bridge (that is literally falling apart at the seams) over a river whilst being assaulted with torrential rain. It is a bravura moment where you are left completely and utterly stunned; not only due to the incredible intensity of the heart-stopping scenario but by the sheer audacity of the film-makers in realising such a treacherous action sequence that continues for far longer than you would expect possible. This is pure cinema - a phenomenally suspenseful thrill ride that gnaws at the very crux of what it feels like to be alive.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YJlGFm4yr45LQ3KfnYU8HwLfDKDs5RVNJ2Nnb64BaYh5eWZtMzpeuokkeY7imfqZ492fDD7oXzq4CjDyGd-22vBtaD3Q6i-1ejWRrdcjzGHqMiN4jQKUP29KrggDwEOaBhj0lyPgmfI/s1600/sorcerer+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="685" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YJlGFm4yr45LQ3KfnYU8HwLfDKDs5RVNJ2Nnb64BaYh5eWZtMzpeuokkeY7imfqZ492fDD7oXzq4CjDyGd-22vBtaD3Q6i-1ejWRrdcjzGHqMiN4jQKUP29KrggDwEOaBhj0lyPgmfI/s320/sorcerer+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Roy Scheider takes top billing as Jackie Scanlon, an American Irishman who takes refuge in the South American jungle when fleeing from the mob. His steady nerves and skill behind the wheel secure him a place in the assignment and his character becomes more unhinged as the trucks inch ever closer towards their destination. Bruno Cremer portrays Victor Manzon, a once successful French businessman down on his luck who would do anything to be reunited with his wife. These are tragic men who are struggling to survive against the unpredictable tide of fate and (along with Francisco Rabal as Nilo and Amidou as Kassem) they provide an astonishing depth of emotion in their performances; anchoring the films heavy themes with a raw and visceral expressiveness of character that leaves you breathless - in total awe and appreciation of the dedication to their craft.<br />
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The camaraderie between the men is shallow and fragile; they are bound together through their actions but remain ever fearful that a single mistake from their companions could spell certain doom for the mission and their life. They all seek dominance and control over the risky decisions they face and the hostilities between the four are as fascinating to behold as the deadly manoeuvres they undertake whilst grappling with the controls of the trucks. Friedkin focuses in on the wheels spinning and the explosives shaking in the rear compartment just as much as the frightened reactions from his protagonists and these cuts heighten the heart-palpitating tension close to unbearable levels.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKMS2lS0IGeTOP1RXWR5fIEqyTvWTW0C0vT1_cNtQHmCGNhLMmYQRSMBe1L3kQRmi8FMIvt5CdnDoUcT-7DgO1f4XXSbZl2UEyXrgNUV7ae4JCmc3gWjVvf_elUk53aKGqr_E9eDhIBY/s1600/sorcerer+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1200" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKMS2lS0IGeTOP1RXWR5fIEqyTvWTW0C0vT1_cNtQHmCGNhLMmYQRSMBe1L3kQRmi8FMIvt5CdnDoUcT-7DgO1f4XXSbZl2UEyXrgNUV7ae4JCmc3gWjVvf_elUk53aKGqr_E9eDhIBY/s320/sorcerer+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Sorcerer is a monumental thriller and a testament to Friedkin's astounding ability as a director; particularly when you consider that he overcame a plethora of setbacks throughout the film's volatile production. Tackling a reinterpretation of a renowned masterpiece and being successful in doing so is no small feat, and one that demonstrates just how remarkable Friedkin's talent is. When working on the restoration Friedkin himself said 'I felt then and still do that Sorcerer is the best film I've made', and I wholeheartedly concur that this is a masterclass in film-making that rivals The French Connection and The Exorcist.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you take the time to watch Sorcerer then it would be awesome if you could also take the time to let me know what you thought of it, either by commenting below or tweeting me @filmbantha. Thanks, and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For previous instalments in the series click </span><a href="http://filmbantha.blogspot.co.uk/p/essentials.html" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">here</a></div>
<br />Filmbanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17250687956053720671noreply@blogger.com0