ngkubisiak Reviews (5)

Mickey 17 (2025)

Let me explain.

[9/10 · 11 March 2025]

I was expecting a silly adventure of a guy who dies a bunch. I was not expecting a subversive Si-Fi mixed with in-your-face political commentary. It's bonkers, but it works. Let me explain.

My interpretation, Mickey is a universal character, representing the changes we go through in life and the many different versions of ourselves. After this version, what will you do next? How will you use your change? How can you contribute to the world as the most evolved version of yourself? That's what I got from "Mickey 17" by the end of the film. Speaking of Mickey, oh my god, Robert Pattinson can ACT. This is the best acting I've seen from him, he's just perfect in this movie. I'm actually not sure if this movie would work without him, as he's the most standout thing about it.

The direction is, I'll say it again, bonkers. It's bonkers, but in the best ways possible. The cinematography is gorgeous. Unexpected twists and turns kept me intrigued throughout. I need to see more. I actually haven't seen "Parasite", which might explain my praise for this movie. Still, as a first impression, this guy's an amazing director. I never knew what to expect until the end (the ending is one of my only problems, and we'll get to that).

Now, the political themes may seem out of left field, but they're really an essential part of the movie. It adds not only the most humorous characters in the film, but an essential commentary. A warning. Especially considering our current political atmosphere in America. The movie didn't have to include this aspect, but it did anyway, and I admire it for that.

I think the criticism comes from a strong misunderstanding. It has similar "problems" as another one of my favorite movies, "Barbie". It's extremely in-your-face in some areas yet totally subversive in others. It shouldn't work, it seems like too much of a contrast. Yet, that IS what makes it work. It's not for everyone, I get it. It's not a safe movie, therefore not everyone will like it. To me, though, that's why it's good.

All that said, there are some problems I just can't deny. The main problem, considering the amount of twists and turns the movie goes for, the ending is too safe. Satisfying ending, but that's the problem. It goes all out, and in the end, decides to play it safe. Oh well. One other thing, it at times feels unintentionally Oscar-grabby. I think it's great, and I honestly think it should be nominated, especially for best actor. But, c'mon, it's like they're asking for it. Everyone working on the movie should've just trusted the crazy ideas. They didn't need to double down. It's almost perfect, but these aspects unfortunately dial it down a notch. Then again, those are the only real problems, and if it is Oscar-worthy, maybe it's okay to flaunt it. For the most part, it's thought-provoking and engaging enough for these problems to fade into the background. Ultimately, the message and heart of the film completely make up for these problems. No matter how many versions of you there are, live all your lives authentically and with purpose. Or, at least try, even when the world tries to stop you.

Maybe this movie just resonated with me personally, but I genuinely believe it's a misunderstood masterpiece.

The Brutalist (2024)

Used AI, what does this mean for the future of cinema?

[25 January 2025]

An impressive movie, in most regards. Highly praised and well-loved. Does it deserve an Oscar nomination? I'm not sure. All of the work done by people should be praised, and it's still an ambitious movie. However, learning that AI was used not not only create much of the scenery, but also modify the actor's voice to be more "accurate" for the time and place. Personally, I'd rather things be slightly off for the sake of an authentic performance, and I prefer more jobs to people who can create amazing scenery. Now, does this make it a bad movie for using AI? Not necessarily. Does it's nomination and praise make me worry about the future of cinema? Yeah, it does.

Requiem for a Dream (2000)

You frightened me... Do it again.

[8/10 · 26 December 2024]

Extremely devastating, brutal, uncomfortable, and so well done. This movie is absolutely insane and doesn't hold back for a second. Addiction is depicted about as perfectly as it could be, horrible and terrifying. It slowly builds up without you realizing it, because it already starts uncomfortably. Something is already off, and then the movie continues to throw you in even more. Again, it's so well done. I recommend it, for sure, but it is hard to stomach, especially towards the end. You just understand and feel bad for every character involved, and it paints an excellent understanding of the reality of addiction. People aren't addicts cause it's a choice, they're addicts because it's a dependency. One of the most intensely depressing and wild movies I've ever scene, as an immense compliment.

Up (2009)

My Favorite Pixar Movie

[10/10 · 1 July 2024]

Up is so unique, yet so universal at the same time. I love how it touches on subjects like grief and found family. Also, this film is hilarious!

I honestly couldn't understand how anyone could hate this film. I'd imagine even the people who didn't particularly love the film have good things to say about it. It's so well done.

Everyone praises the first fifteen minutes of the film, understandably. I'd argue, though, the rest of the film is just as great, if not better. It's weird, bizarre ideas mixed with tenderness and silly humor make for a perfect all-ages film.

It's not so much about a story as it is about characters, life itself, and friendship. I actually think that's the film's strong suite. That way, the plot can go wacky places while still being grounded by a sentimental core.

It's impressive how they made a dead character the heart of the film. Yes, Ellie is the heart of the film. Even when she is gone, her optimism and love counteract Carl's fears and bitterness, helping him grow and do the right thing. People we love continue to inspire us and guide us, even when they are gone.

I love this film.

The Holdovers (2023)

The most authentic film I've seen in a long time.

[9/10 · 11 February 2024]

The most touching performances I've seen in a while. Where plot and events seem cliche, emotion and characters soar. It is a dialogue-driven film, which is actually its greatest strength. It's not pretentious, something you don't see often in film anymore. Just a brilliantly touching film which relies purely on human emotion, carried by stellar acting. The fact that this is Dominic Sessa's first role in a movie is beyond me. His role as the young, rebellious Angus was incredible. Definitely a rising star to look out for. Speaking of great performances, Da'Vine Joy Randolph as Mary was the standout performance of the film. Her range and dedication to the character, and story, was incredible. It's nice to see her getting the credit she deserves. Of course, I also have to mention Paul Giamatti, essentially playing Ebenezer Scrooge if he was a teacher in the 70s. Stern and cold, growing ever so softer as the film goes on. Although this type of character has been acted out many times, Giamatti plays this character so naturalistically, it hardly feels like a film cliche at all. The performances from these three actors feel so genuine and raw, and compliment each other so well. I couldn't think of a better trio to carry out such a brilliant, bittersweet script. To top it all off, the pacing is wonderful, as is the editing, and Alexander Payne's direction perfectly encapsulates life's hardships and the human condition. I can't recommend this film enough.