EO is one of those rare movies where, not knowing exactly how, the film transports you into a different world. In the end you never knew you would have so much empathy for a donkey while exploring the meaning of consciousness. (4.5*)
Argentina 1985 is a docudrama telling the story of the world’s first civilian trial of a military dictatorship. It is a courtroom drama lightened with humor and stories of families. A good film, but maybe a bit difficult to absorb. (3.5*)
Close evokes emotions, but violates another principle of what makes a good movie. (2.5*)
The Quiet Girl is quite possibly the best movie of the year. (5*)
A German production, All Quiet on the Western Front re-adapts the 1928 novel of the same name, adding some distinctive scenes and commentary to the story of a young German man, and his friends, thrust onto the “Western Front” to fight the French in the final months of World War I. Accompanied by some stunning cinematography, dominating sound and music, and visceral visual effects, the film reaches new heights in presenting the horror of war. It also adds another, very important message about how events are felt differently depending on where you stand on the social ladder.
(1*) The Hand of God is an attempt at being Fellini. For an American audience, it is just a hot mess.
(3.5*) Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom is an honest, beautiful, and touching insight into a simple culture.
(4*) The Worst Person in the World is a beautiful film with a fantastic Renate Reinsve, but maybe appeals most to a certain audience.
A summary review of this year’s five International Feature nominees.
(4.5 Stars). This is not a feel good movie, but one that people should see. It paints an ugly side of humanity.
(3.5 Stars). Actually a fairly good movie, but, again, with maybe a bit too much politics.
(3.5 Stars) An interesting film with some very good dramatic elements. But seems to have some heavy-handed government overlays.
(4 Stars) A film that walks a fine line between drama and messaging. And a terrific Mikkelson performance.
(4 Stars) An important story about government and corporate corruption and the role of the press in exposing it.
(5 Stars) An exceptionally well crafted movie that moves you through multiple emotions all while exploring the complexities of social class.
(4 Stars) Tight and Powerful indictment of the authority of the Catholic Church.
(3 Stars) Interesting and well done, but not exactly memorable.
(4 Stars) Subtle and Multi-layered. Almodovar, Banderas, and Cruz at the top of their games.
(3 Stars) Although critics rate this the second best movie of all 37, I found it tough to follow and lacking in empathy. This is one that probably deserves a second viewing.
(3.5 Stars) An intriguing film from Lebanon where an unhappy child sues his parents for being born.
2/5 Oscar Nominations: Foreign Language Film (Poland)Director (Pawel Pawlikowski)Cinematography (Lukas Zal) Maybe one shouldn’t screen this movie after watching the German film “Never Look
(4.5 Stars) A German drama tracing the life of an East-German artist who struggles to find his true art form, and the meaning of his life. Professional critics didn’t like this as well.
(5 Stars) Probably the best movie of the year and a great example of excellence in all dimensions. A must-see film.
Questa del Rio News: Questa, New Mexico.
Gringo Gazette: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Sierra County Sun: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.