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Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Discriminatory
While I find the location of this movie picturesque with a handful of occasional beauty, I can't ignore the lack of substance, especially in a story criticized for glorifying an imbalanced power-dynamic relationship that involved nothing romantic and is largely set on lust.
The characters' likability is also a point of contention, with smugness and pretentiousness. The age-gap romance is an absolute tumor-leveled concern, being clearly predatory. Just wtf.
The film falls short in ethical portrayal, character development, and ethical portrayal leave me questioning its acclaim, especially in comparison to other acclaimed works like "Moonlight." What do people like about this so much?
I won't be detailed or explain further.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
find our identity, embrace our uniqueness, and defy those who seek to define us
This film stands out as a cinematic gem, seamlessly blending innovative animation with a captivating storyline. The film's visual style is a visual feast, offering a fresh and dynamic take on the superhero genre.
Beyond that, I felt this film had definitely resonated with me and this is why: find our identity, embrace our uniqueness, and defy those who seek to define us.
The film intricately weaves a tapestry of self-discovery and fate, drawing parallels to the hero's journey seen in ancient myths and Joseph Campbell's narrative arc. The film goes beyond conventional superhero identity narratives, shedding light on marginalized aspects of identity, notably exemplified in the poignant moments between Miles Morales and his mother, Rio.
In the face of societal decay and disapproval, the movie presents a modernist perspective, encapsulated by Rio's powerful message-never let anyone dictate your existence or undermine your sense of belonging. This echoes a metamodernist approach, capturing the oscillating nature of identity contradictions in our complex world, encompassing aspects like ethnicity, class, gender, nationality, and more.
The metaphorical spiderweb becomes a powerful symbol, reflecting our entanglement with multiple facets of self, where seemingly disparate identities must find connection. The film invites us to bridge the gaps within ourselves and reconcile conflicting aspects before they consume our world. I find that beautifully illustrated, which is why I'm fond of Hobie/Spider-Punk, and I'll get to that later.
The film emphasizes that, despite our differences, we hold the key to shaping the future and addressing the challenges that lie ahead. It prompts viewers to ask themselves, in the words of the movie, 'Will you?' Ultimately, the movie becomes a call to action, a testament to the power we hold in steering the course of our lives and shaping the destiny that is uniquely ours.
So, Hobie. My man, Hobie. Love him, who wouldn't? Hobie's character shines as a beacon of staying true to oneself. His independence is evident as he continues saving people aligned with the Spider Society's interests, not out of obligation. Hobie's absence at a crucial event highlights his belief in letting others make their own choices.
In a defining moment, he takes a refreshing approach, avoiding confrontation. Instead of dictating, he empowers Miles with the "Use your palms, not just your fingers" advice, emphasizing the power to decide one's fate. Hobie's unique portrayal makes him an enabler of authenticity, embodying the film's theme of embracing individuality and autonomous decision-making. So, Hobie. My man, Hobie. Love him, who wouldn't?
Lo imposible (2012)
Self Sacrifice
I have a deep fondness for The Impossible, having watched it in my younger years and revisited it multiple times, including recently.
While the film captivates with its artful storytelling and moving portrayal of the human spirit, it's crucial to acknowledge some potential misleading aspects. The story focuses on a family that miraculously survives the 2004 tsunami, overlooking the stark reality faced by the overwhelming majority of the disaster's victims. The statistically low survival rates often make a happy ending seem fundamentally misleading for a film centered on such a devastating event.
Critically, the movie could be perceived as an exaggerated case of slumming, where a family experiences a harrowing event, returns home relatively unscathed, and capitalizes on their trauma by making a movie. The Hollywood emotional manipulation, including horror-show graphics and dramatic techniques, might, for some, cheapen the gravity of the tragedy.
On the positive side, 'The Impossible' skillfully delivers a message of generosity and resourcefulness in the face of tragedy. The stunning special effects depicting the raging tsunami are a cinematic marvel, providing an awe-inspiring visual representation of the disaster. The film's accuracy, praised by other survivors, and the real family's ongoing efforts to help others, add authenticity to its narrative.
Ultimately, 'The Impossible' speaks to the purity of self-sacrifice, the anguish of loss, and the enduring strength of love. It beautifully illustrates the undying human spirit, showcasing the fiece protectiveness strangers can muster for one another and the unyielding care and loyalty within families.
Special note: This was the first I saw Tom Holland in, and was captivated by his acting skills. It's truly rewarding to see his journey in the film industry- Witnessing his growth over the years solidifies his well-deserved title as a great actor.
Good Boys (2019)
Humorous Reflection
This movie is undeniably the closest thing to a live-action South Park. I love its comedic style, skillfully blending raunchy humor with the curiosity of young boys and clever adult puns. What I appreciate most is its ability to balance laughter with poignant moments, making it a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable experience. It's definitely made me reflect on my own childhood, particularly when addressing how children come to understand that it's acceptable to grow apart. The film beautifully captures the bittersweet nostalgia of those moments, adding a layer of depth to its comedic charm. Not a 5 because of events being fairly unrealistic and acting is pretty par. Not a 3 because as being a comedy film, the expected exaggeration serves its purpose. Moreover, the film's deeper message has a profound impact, adding emotional depth beyond the typical comedy genre.
The Strange Thing About the Johnsons (2011)
Strange, indeed..
This film seriously brought in the shock factor; delving into the toxic web of connections not only between a father and his son but also involving the mother.
The unexpected darkness and melodrama take you by surprise, especially if someone like myself initially perceived it as a comical satire film (just a clip on Instagram) and had the initial impression that it would a comical satire film. It serves as a testament to the depth beneath the surface, emphasizing the adage "never judge a book by its cover."
It's a masterpiece, in my opinion- the writer and director take a bold risk by subverting the typical roles in cases of SA, challenging the conventional portrayal where the parent is the abuser and the child the victim. Throughout the film, the meticulous changes in facial expressions, emotions, and reactions of each character contribute to its impactful storytelling.
She's the Man (2006)
Nostalgic Charm with Gender Challenges
What about for this review for the movie She's the Man?
Nothing beats a classic 2000s Rom-Com like this film! Well, actually, there's a lot of great ones out there. But this one has got to be one of my favorites when I was younger (still is).
She's the Man skillfully blends humor and an empowering message challenging gender stereotypes. The writing, a mix of funny and cringey, follows a woman's journey to defy societal norms and pursue her dreams. Despite its brilliance in delivering a humorous love comedy addressing gender stereotypes, the film, while considered one of the best sports comedies of 2006, is not without drawbacks.
Amanda Bynes' captivating performance adds depth, but Viola's impersonation occasionally leads to oversexualization and objectification of women. The film's binary portrayal of gender dynamics, while conveying core messages, may feel dated to modern viewers, excluding experiences of trans and gender non-conforming individuals. Despite hints at LGBTQ dynamics, the film mostly adheres to heterosexual rom-com tropes, albeit with some subversion.
Ojing-eo geim (2021)
Thrilling/Thought-Provoking
Squid Game masterfully delivers an exhilarating experience through its gripping suspense and cleverly crafted plot twists/holes. The first half, leading up to the intense glass stepping stone challenge, was undeniably addictive. The series- despite it being based off a competition of undergoing inhumane treatment- excels in forging a connection with particular characters that amplifies the emotional stakes through well-executed backstories.
However, the only pivotal highlights after the first half was: 1) the revelation of Oh Il-nam as the clandestine mastermind, injecting a fresh layer of intrigue & 2) when Seong Gi-hun seemingly forgoes his chance to reunite with his daughter, influenced by the salesman who initially lured him into the deadly competition. Otherwise, the second half had predictable events compared to the twists of the first half.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this series. And maybe it's because I somehow relate with the VIPs in the sense that the show's exploration of human nature, power dynamics, and the darker facets of society, makes it an intriguing and thought-provoking viewing experience. I'm not entirely masochistic.
Wonder (2017)
Idealized Portrayal
Despite the heartwarming message of "Wonder," the film tends to lean towards a somewhat idealized portrayal, which, to be honest, feels a bit disconnected from real-world experiences. While the storyline carries a positive message about acceptance and empathy, it often veers into territory that seems overly generous and optimistic. This abundance of positivity may inadvertently detract from the film's ability to resonate with viewers on a deeper, more relatable level. The characters' struggles, while undoubtedly significant, are sometimes portrayed in a way that feels sanitized or glossed over, potentially diminishing the impact of the underlying themes. While it's admirable that the film seeks to inspire hope and kindness, it's also important to acknowledge the complexities and challenges inherent in real-life situations. By presenting a somewhat utopian vision of the world, "Wonder" runs the risk of oversimplifying the complexities of human relationships and the realities of living with physical differences. Ultimately, while the film undoubtedly has its merits, its idealized portrayal may leave some viewers longing for a more nuanced and realistic depiction of the struggles faced by individuals who are different. Nonetheless, "Wonder" remains a touching and heartwarming story that encourages viewers to embrace empathy and kindness in their own lives.