Change Your Image
BTW23
Reviews
Morvern Callar (2002)
Staggering brilliance
The only negative thing I can think to say about this film is it's off-putting title that almost prevented me from finding it. I am very glad that I did. This film, from the first frame to the last, has delivered everything that I as a lover of cinema am searching for. From a well-crafted script, to expert direction, from ethereal camera work, to a heartbreaking soundtrack, from the amount of space it allows it's vision to the pitch-perfect performance of Samantha Morton (who has clearly earned to be mentioned among the finest of today's working actresses'). While critics are still busy patting themselves on the back for being "open" enough to praise "Y Tu Mama Tambien" and "getting" "Adaptation" this incomparable piece of work makes both look like the immature work of a child while going largely unnoticed. I can only hope that some how, some way people who love film find their way to this movie. Such high praise would usually indicate a difficult film, and the subject matter or synopsis of plot would also lead you to this conclusion but I think many will come out of this film pleasantly surprised by how accessible and relevant it's story is.
Donnie Darko (2001)
The most poorly marketed movie of all-time
I'm sure the studio behind this was thinking "Scream" when they made trailers, posters, etc. But whoever they were, they made a huge mistake. Not only was the tagline (Dark, Darkest, Darko) the worst I may have ever read but I rejected this film more than once for the retarded poster alone. Thank god I was convinced (against my will) to see this amazing film. Razor sharp dialogue, an award-worthy cast (okay Drew Barrymore can't even slam a door convincingly but she did help the film get made), sci-fi camera tricks that enhance rather than disrupt the film. Somehow this potentially disturbing film is turned into a winning black comedy by its writer/director. He may never be able to top his debut but I certainly hope he does. Jake Gyllenhall launched his career from this film with good reason: He becomes Donnie completely. Maybe the highest compliment I can pay this movie is that it demands and deserves repeat viewings and after 3 times it hasn't disappointed yet.