Taste of Cherry (1997)

"Taste of Cherry" is an Iranian film released in 1997 and was written and directed by Abbas Kiarostami. An Iranian man drives around the dirt covered and dust ridden hills of Iran, searching for someone to bury him under a cherry tree after he has committed suicide. 

This film is nothing short of exceptional. Most of it takes place in a car driving around the same dirt covered hills in Iran. It becomes quite mesmerizing and dizzying. Yet, it consistently keeps you engaged. Once you learn the man's desire to die, you find it absolutely necessary to know why he wants this. His search, becomes your search. You find yourself in the car with him looking for people who have nothing better to do. 

This film also paints an accurate portrait of Iranian life. Even though 90% of the film is in a car, we meet characters that illustrate the hardship and struggle of Iran. The film's setting is enough of a statement on Iran. Desolate, lost, covered in dust and searching for a way out. 

What really stuck with me about this film was the main character, played by Homayoun Ershadi. His presence in every scene captivates as well as forces the audience to question. His performance is trance-like in the fact that he keeps his emotions locked up yet is still able to reflect his inner feelings through facial expressions and mannerisms. 

Now if you see this film, I imagine you will be quite confused as to what the ending means. I can't say much, but the last scene takes you out of the film completely. It takes you out so far that you will be convinced that it wasn't part of the film. Please watch it so we can discuss. This is what film is all about. 

"Taste of Cherry" is an astounding film and an excellent example of character driven story. I look forward to seeing more Iranian films. I think a film like this can show the average viewer that great films are made not only in the U.S. but all over the world. Do yourself justice and check this film out. 

Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120265/

Here's the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63rdfYL9nRI

Ali: Fear Eats the Soul (1974)

"Ali: Fear Eats the Soul" was released in 1974 and was written and directed by Rainer Werner. Fassbinder. Emmi, a German widow in the second half of her life, falls in love with a Moroccan immigrant, Ali. After they marry, the couple falls victim to racism, prejudices and find themselves isolated from society. They struggle to cope with this hoping their love can thrive and help them through. 

This is one of the most honest and simple films I have ever had the pleasure to see. It's wonderful. The love shared between Emmi and Ali is not anything that is commercialized or for show but it's genuine love. It's two people who understand and accept each other. Very powerful and heartwarming. But of course, no love can exist without obstacles. Being a Moroccan immigrant and of the working class, Ali is not accepted among Emmi's family or friends. However, Emmi loves Ali anyway. Even Ali's friends don't accept Emmi because she is German and older. Racism and Agism are the main themes here. 

Some could also see this film as a tool for German propaganda. At the time this film was released, Germany was viewed as a very hateful country especially towards outsiders. This film depicts a German woman who sees through a man's race and loves him despite it. The individual is racist but not the institution. This is present because in the film the people of power have no issue with Emmi and Ali's relationship. (e.g. landlord, police) 

But even though she loves Ali, even Emmi secedes from being entirely accepting. At points in the film, she treats Ali as if he were for show. Ali is treated as an image or a prize that Emmi has attained. He is strong and tough and these are the exterior things that people associate with him. Society sees a tool, not a man. Keep an eye out in the film for camera angle choices. Ali is constantly being filmed through doorways and framed images. Looking is a theme. Who can look at who and who is looked down upon. 

"Ali: Fear Eats the Soul" is about society and how they can take away desire. Ali falls victim to this and at the end of the film is in a destitute place. Emmi is by his side but their struggles won't quit. This film is terrific in every aspect and is beautiful. The performances are stunning and it's simplicity is awe-inspiring. Check it out. 

Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page, along with the trailer:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071141/

Zodiac (2007)

"Zodiac" was released in 2007 and was directed by David Fincher (Se7en, Fight Club, The Social Network). The film depicts the murders of the Zodiac killer in the late 60's into the 70's in California. A cartoonist, Robert Graysmith, becomes obsessed with the zodiac and does all he can to help the police find the killer. It becomes a personal mission for Robert to know the identity of the elusive zodiac. 

When you think of David Fincher, films such as Se7en, Fight Club, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and the Social Network come to mind. Now, those are all great films indeed, but for some reason Zodiac slips under the radar. It was released in march of 2007, a very quiet time for film. That could attribute to the lack of attention it received. This is the film that essentially revitalized Fincher's career. 

If you like mysteries that keep you guessing constantly and force you to become part of the investigation then this is the film for you. Zodiac is a fast paced film that really entertains as well as informs you on a dark figure known as the zodiac. The first half of the film is the police attempting and ultimately failing to bring a charge to any of the suspects. The second half is Robert Graysmith, who also wrote the book which the film is based on, taking the investigation into his own home. This alienates him from his work and his family. His obsessive drive to discover the zodiac is relentless. 

It isn't a horror film but it definitely has it's creepy moments. Towards the beginning there are some brutal murder scenes but they don't last. Zodiac has a tone to it. The film is dark and is constantly forcing you to look down alley ways for danger. You are always expecting something bad to happen. It puts you in a mood that most films can't. This is a powerful film in the fact that it forces this feeling upon you without manipulating. 

The acting is tremendous. The best performance comes from Robert Downey Jr. He is simply brillant. This may have been the film that brought his career back to life as well. After this, he began appearing in so many films. He is one of the best actors working today and this is a prime example of his excellence. 

"Zodiac" is a gem of a film and it's unfortunate that not many have seen it. I adore David Fincher's other films but this is one of his more honest works. So take the time out, pop some popcorn and watch this film. You'll be pleasantly surprised.  

Till next time.

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443706/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dWgRfb17-M

Oldboy (2003)

"Oldboy" was released in 2003 and was directed by South Korean director Chan-wook Park.  After being imprisoned for 15 years without being given any reason as to why, Dae-su Oh, is given 5 days to discover why he was held captive and seek revenge for his lost time. 

THIS FILM IS TREMENDOUS. I cannot stress that enough. It's honestly one of the greatest films I have ever seen. It's plot is brillant, the acting is flawless, the cinematography is awe-inspiring and it takes you in it's grasp from start to finish and doesn't let you go. This film defiantly resonates with you long after you've finished watching it. 

It's a mystery. The film is a puzzle that you are forced to put together along with the main character. At first it seems like a simple plot but it quickly thickens and thickens until the shocking climax. There are so many themes and motifs that flow throughout this film. I wish I could go into more detail but like I said, it's a mystery, and I wouldn't want to give anything away. Revenge is the biggest one I can name without revealing too much. 

Now, this film does warrant a slight disclaimer. It's, for lack of a better word, disturbing. The themes that are raised are controversial and it can be difficult to watch at certain points. If you've ever heard someone talk about this film, they will tell you how violent and crazy it is. Well, craziness is definitely a factor here but violence is a different story. Yes, it is violent but it is stylized violence. Chan-wook Park leaves most of it up to the imagination. 

I've seen this film many times and it never fails to leave an impact. I've also heard many people shun this film because they think it is popularized by violence and intense themes but I strongly disagree. This is a character film. Dae-su is dealing with losing his wife, daughter and 15 years of his life. Even the villain's narrative becomes a huge part of the film. The characters are what really shine here.

"Oldboy" is a film you MUST see. This film is highly regarded by critics such as Roger Ebert and even Quentin Tarantino. Despite being super controversial and stomach turning at points, I would recommend this film to anyone. To me, "Oldboy" has one of the best plots and is one of the best films of the last ten years. Go see it. 

Till next time. 

P.S. Spike Lee is currently working on a remake of this film. I'm not happy about this because why remake a film that is already flawless. It's basically just a way to americanize (just make some money) the film due to the popularity Oldboy is receiving in the U.S. Just let it be. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0364569/

Here's the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLn1y9v6yno

Fallen Angels (1995)

"Fallen Angels" was released in 1995 and was written and directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-wai. A mysterious hit man, his detached female partner and a mute, struggle to find happiness and meaning in their desolate and difficult lives in Hong Kong. Inevitably and unknowing, their paths cross.

WOW. This film really blows you away the first time you watch it. And it's even better the second time. This film is wild, unpredictable, action-packed, intimate, deep, crazy and brillant all at the same time. There are three different stories being followed in this film, each with their own dynamics and unique features. 

Each of the story-lines and characters are highly interesting. They're all conflicted. There is no exact plot to the film but it's more the wandering of characters in a dark and brooding setting. Big laughs and some highly emotional moments are generated in this film. One could say, it breaks the genre barrier. 

The opening sequence sets the tone for the entire film. Something to note when watching, the editing style varies depending on which story is being told. Each character is given an editing style. Don't pay too much attention to it but keep it in the back of your head. 

To me, Fallen Angels is about three disconnected individuals trying to find love and acceptance in an unforgiving world. They long for someone to reassure them that everything is going to be ok, even when it's not. Each character is relatable in a different way and yet each character possesses impecable strength. I'm a huge fan of this film and an advocate that more people should see it. So do yourself a favor and go see it. Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112913/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZda7nWftQI&feature=related

50/50 (2011)

"50/50" was released in 2011 and was directed by Jonathan Levine (The Wackness). It's a about a 27 year old who's world is turned upside down upon learning that he has cancer. The film follows his struggle to fight the disease with the help from his vulgar friend, his over-caring mother and an inexperienced therapist. This was inspired by a true story. 

I was pleasantly surprised by this film. Seeing the trailer (which consists of Seth Rogen making cancer jokes), I was somewhat turned off. It looked like a comedy about a guy who has cancer. WHAT? But I went out, got the film and watched it. 

This was much more than just a a comedy. This was a heartfelt, touching and truthful story of a man who is struggling with life. In an ironic way, his diagnosis of cancer inevitably gives him the strength to fully realize what life is worth. The poetic and subtle manner in which this is handled in the film is beautiful. 

However, it is a comedy as well. Seth Rogen supplies the comedic relief to Joseph Gordon-Levitt's unfortunate situation. I must say, I don't think I've seen a better performance, comedic or serious, from Seth Rogen. He shines in every scene he's in and will have you rolling on the floor laughing. 

"50/50" is a character driven film, which always appeals to me. It's funny, moving and highly entertaining. Some moments feel similar to an indie film but that makes it seem even more authentic. Go check it out. I'm sure you will enjoy yourselves. Like I said, I was surprised by this film and it goes to show that you can't judge anything until you experience it. Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1306980/

Here's the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAykqVD5n0U&feature=fvst

2012: The Films to Look For...

No, this is not a post about the "end of the world" film with John Cusack. Relax. What this is, is an upcoming look at some of the films I'm highly excited about for 2012. There are plenty of big name directors releasing films this year that are sure to be hits. Some could even end up as some of the best ever made. No doubt that these films will find themselves on the big stage next year at the oscars. Lets go!

We'll start with an obvious one....

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES (Release date: July 20)

This is the third and final installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy. This film will most definitely be a summer blockbuster. Everything Nolan has made so far has been absolute gold. He's an auteur and a master at his craft. Will definitely be one of the best of the year.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1345836/
Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXAzGGX2tpw






DJANGO UNCHAINED (Release date: December 25)


This is the upcoming film from one of my favorite directors, Quentin Tarantino. His body of work speaks for itself. This is a western, and knowing Tarantino's favorite film is "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly", I'm sure he's going to deliver another classic.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1853728/








THE MASTER (No official release date as of now)


Paul Thomas Anderson is back! To me, he's the closest thing to Stanley Kubrick around right now. And that's a serious comparison. He works on his films for a longer period of time than other directors. But it pays off. He goes after quality as opposed to quantity. The Master should just be another excellent addition to his glorious body of work. 


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1560747/











THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (Release date: December 14)



The prequel to the first three Lord of the Rings films, The Hobbit is looking like it's going to be epic. Peter Jackson returns to direct this mammoth of a story. I highly regret not seeing the first three films in theater, for thats the way they are meant to be seen. I won't make that mistake this time. It's going to be a spectacle. 

Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903624/

Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-y1R1N8FC0&feature=fvst

MOONRISE KINGDOM (Release date: May 16)


I love Wes Anderson films! He is extremely original, which is hard to find these days and every film has a style. His films are alive and breathing. This film looks like it's going to be colorful, funny and have that quirky Wes Anderson tone to it. Can't wait!


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1748122/
Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N8wkVA4_8s








LINCOLN (Release date: December 2012)


This film is exciting for two reasons. 1. Daniel day-Lewis is playing Abraham Lincoln. 2. Steven Spielberg is directing. Normally, these kind of films are nothing but oscar bait but when Daniel Day-Lewis steps in front of the camera...it's going to be special. Best actor nominee for sure.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443272/






Other Notable Releases


THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN
DARK SHADOWS
THE GREAT GATSBY
THE DICTATOR




As you can tell, it' going to be a special year in film. 2012 promises to wow us with spectacular films that we will cherish for a long time. I, for one, am very excited. Make sure you go see these films once they hit theaters. Till next time.