Last weekend I was privileged to see two fantastic films. I cannot wait for the Blu-Rays of both to be released. Both are only in theaters and I urge you to go see them as soon as you can.
Women Talking is not a one watch film. The wisdoms and metaphors go by so quickly that, as one reviewer said, you want to hit pause, rewind, play several times. I am debating about going back to the theater or waiting for it to stream in about 6 months. Often when a film is comprised only of talking viewers tend to get bored and inattentive. Such is not the case here. The dialog, music and the acting grab your attention from the start, the tension and suspense keeps you there. Although shot in color the film has a black and white feel because of the darkness of the scenes. I expect Hildur Guðnadóttir’s score to be up for a number of awards. It is an ensemble production with every character having a part in the story telling. Is this a perfectly made film–No. But it is one that will make you appreciate the art of filmmaking as it unveils.
Living is a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1952 film Ikuru (available on Amazon Prime). Ironically Living is the work of Japanese scriptwriter Kazuo Ishiguro. One has to wonder if that was necessary to get the full flavor of Kurosawa’s work. Ishiguro is known as the author of Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go. Most importantly this is a poignant, tender film. Shot in an interesting 1.48:1 ratio and a 3.4K resolution which help create the claustrophobic feel of a beurocracy. The acting is understated and superb. The production designers make this film look like it was made in the era it is set. The editing is smooth, and the cinematographer softens the color palette. The film finishes with “The End” just like old films and using the old font. Despite its roots, the film is British through and through. There are a number of underlying themes leaving the viewer much to think about as they walk out of the theater.
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