learco Reviews

Far North (2007)

If you're more into Hollywood blockbusters, you'll probably hate this film

[10/10 · 13 October 2009]

This film truly is Far North of anything you've seen before. It caught me by surprise. Had second thoughts before seeing it. Was very happy to have seen it. Unusual story. Interesting. Well made. If there is something typical here its the way the director takes his time to depict the entire situation of the characters. He is not unlike other directors who are not concerned about not showing something every few minutes just to engage, excite or keep his audience. Patience is a virtue I am happy to have and which served me well in viewing this film. Those who are more into usual Hollywood fare (and those who like their films to be easily explained/understood) will probably not like this film. If you want to appreciate this film (and most works of art), you have to keep an open mind. I highly recommend this film.

Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

like the book on which it is based, the film is creative, imaginative and lush

[10/10 · 23 January 2006]

I enjoyed watching this movie and am disappointed it hasn't been getting awards or at least nominations. For me, Gong Li and Zhang Ziyi's performances are outstanding. I didn't see any other performance in any film of 2005 which comes close. 1. Re the cultural authenticity issue - the film is based on a book which is a work of fiction. It is not based on the real life of a geisha. Hence, I find the film fairly accurate as far as the book is concerned. 2. Re the language issue - I don't recall any complaints that in the movie "Troy", no one spoke Greek or even sounded Greek. The cast should instead be praised for making the effort to learn a new and strange language. 3. Re casting - As the film's director Rob Marshall said "you cast the best person for the role". I believe he did in this film.