mariosbenjamin

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Reviews

LaRoy, Texas
(2023)

Escalating Chaos, Missing Depth
LaRoy, Texas is a film that feels like a snowball, rolling downhill and picking up chaotic layers with each new action and choice made by its characters. This constant build-up kept the story engaging and entertaining for me, as every twist made things feel more complicated and unpredictable. The comedy throughout worked well to add some lightness, but at times, it felt like it held back the story from reaching the more intense or satisfying moments I hoped for.

The characters are well-written and bring a quirky charm to the film. However, while they were fun to watch, they lacked real growth or depth. They acted consistently within the story's wacky tone, but I found their actions to be a mix of well-crafted and somewhat clunky moments that didn't always hit the mark.

The direction was stable and well-executed. There are some great shots and compositions, with editing that kept a steady rhythm that matched the story's pacing well. The beginning of LaRoy, Texas does a good job of setting up expectations, holding out plenty of potential scenarios for the story to take. However, by the end, it falls just short of fulfilling those expectations. There's a sense that the movie could have reached a more powerful conclusion if it had taken a different narrative path or gone deeper into the characters' motives.

In the end, LaRoy, Texas is fun, quirky, and visually well-made, but it leaves something to be desired in the story's payoff.

Kapringen
(2012)

Realistic but Emotionally Distant
The movie tries to feel realistic by focusing on the stress felt by the hostages on board and the corporate negotiators back in Denmark. But for me, this focus on realism just didn't bring enough excitement or drama to hold my attention.

The story stays at one level of tension without building up or releasing, which made it feel flat from start to finish. I didn't feel as connected to the characters or their struggles as I'd hoped. Maybe it's because, having seen a lot myself, the movie didn't hit me in a powerful way. For some viewers, especially in Western Europe, this situation might feel more intense and shocking. But for me, it didn't reach that emotional level.

On the technical and artistic side, there's nothing much to praise either. The film lacks any standout visuals or creative direction that might have made it more engaging, so even stylistically, it felt bland.

Longlegs
(2024)

Creeping Suspense that Falters in the End
Longlegs begins on a chilling note, drawing the audience into a world of suspense and creepy atmosphere. The movie's directing style builds tension slowly, focusing on tone over traditional jump scares. It creates a quiet horror that left me with an unsettling feeling throughout.

The camera movement, angles, and composition heightened the suspense, making my imagination feels as though something terrifying was lurking, even when nothing was actually happening. I especially enjoyed the use of lighting and wide shots, which amplified the film's haunting visuals and allowed my imagination to fill in the gaps, adding to the dread.

The acting stands out, especially from Nicolas Cage. I've always seen him as perfect for a role like this, but it took Osgood Perkins's vision to truly bring that potential to life. I also enjoyed the early scenes between the FBI agent and her mother on the telephone. The scenes were well acted, showing only one side of the conversation while leaving the other side unheard and unseen, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue that kept me on edge.

However, in the final chapter, Longlegs begins to unravel. The narrative, which had been carefully built up with suspense and mystery, starts to feel rushed. The story's twists and character arcs lose their depth, as though the film is racing to an ending rather than letting the story naturally unfold. After all the suspenseful build-up, the mystery's resolution felt flat and unsatisfying. It's as if the movie lost its sense of purpose, and the payoff didn't live up to the setup. Instead of a shocking or thought provoking twist, the ending left me feeling indifferent, as though the journey had been for nothing.

The film's style and Nicolas Cage's performance might be worth watching, but if you're hoping for a narrative that follows through on its promise, you may end up disappointed.

JFK
(1991)

JFK Turns History into Thrilling Drama
With a runtime of three and a half hours, JFK somehow manages to feel like it's moving at a swift pace. The film's smooth narrative keeps you engaged, especially during the courtroom chapter, which stands out as an exceptional piece of filmmaking. In fact, that section alone felt so well-crafted, it could easily be a separate movie on its own. The build-up of tension, the meticulous presentation of evidence, and the performances all culminate in a gripping sequence that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The casting for JFK was chosen with great care, and it shows in the quality of the performances. Every actor fit perfectly into their roles, bringing depth to each character, no matter how small.

Technically, JFK is a marvel. The cinematography, editing, and sound design all work in harmony to deliver a visually compelling and immersive experience. Oliver Stone's direction, combined with the sharp writing, transforms what could have been a dry conspiracy theory into a suspenseful and captivating narrative. Whether you buy into the conspiracy theories or not, the film makes you question the official story, leaving you with much to ponder.

In the end, JFK is more than just a historical drama. It's a piece of cinematic art that provokes thought and entertains, making you feel like you've been taken on a fast-paced, well-researched journey through one of the most mysterious events in American history.

The Imitation Game
(2014)

Decoding the Narrative
I was drawn to The Imitation Game after watching Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer (2024), as both films are biographical about scientists during World War II. Going into The Imitation Game, I expected a similarly dense narrative filled with complex scientific concepts and information that might drain my mind. However, to my surprise, after the first half of the movie, I found myself fully engaged and understanding the storyline, as it was presented in a way that made complex situations feel accessible.

This credit goes to the talented writer and director who managed to simplify a complicated historical narrative. Their approach allowed me to appreciate the film's storytelling without feeling overwhelmed.

Benedict Cumberbatch's performance as Alan Turing was particularly remarkable. He portrayed Turing with such authenticity that it often felt like he wasn't acting at all. His performance certainly warranted an Oscar nomination. However, I struggled to understand Keira Knightley's nomination for her role as Joan Clarke. I didn't find any standout scenes that would warrant such recognition.

The film left me with many questions, not necessarily about its plot, but about the moral and ethical dilemmas it presented.

Oppenheimer
(2023)

The Weight of Information
Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer left me feeling mentally drained-but not out of boredom. The sheer volume of information packed into the first 2.5-hour runtime made it challenging to stay fully alert and engaged throughout. However, by the final act, the film gave a satisfying sense that every shot and character played an essential role in its complex structure, a hallmark of Nolan's filmmaking.

The film features numerous shots of characters' faces, which contributed to a feeling that I was mostly just seeing faces and eyes for much of the runtime. While these shots were well-executed, I wouldn't say they elevated my overall enjoyment.

From a narrative perspective, Nolan doesn't provide enough room for reflection or understanding the deeper tensions between characters. The emotional relationships are underdeveloped, and this is a recurring weakness I find in many of his films. Nolan favors intricate, non-linear storytelling, which is creative and genius but often comes at the expense of emotional resonance and clear storytelling. He succeeds in conveying his messages, but it's frequently at the cost of the drama and depth that could have made the story more impactful.

I also wouldn't call this Nolan's best work, worthy of an Oscar for Best Picture or Best Director. Yet, the film's technical elements-from cinematography and music to camera composition, movements and the exceptional performances of the cast-are what truly elevate it. These aspects are critical to its success, as the movie itself wouldn't stand out as much without them.

Rebel Ridge
(2024)

From Tension to Disappointment
Rebel Ridge starts off strong, with a promising setup that establishes an intriguing story. However, as the movie progresses into the second act, I found myself feeling increasingly disconnected.

One of the first issues I had was with the setting. The village feels strangely empty, as if Terry is the only one there against the police station. This lack of depth in the environment took away from the tension, making it feel more like a one-sided battle than a community fight against corruption.

Aaron Pierre, unfortunately, didn't fully convince me in the lead role. His character looked deadly and strong, but his performance felt strangely flat, as if he himself wasn't sure about what he was doing. The "kung fu panda" style fight sequences felt prosaic and lacked the impact they were aiming for.

On the other hand, I enjoyed AnnaSophia Robb's acting-she brought life and emotion to her role-but the overall atmosphere around her character made it hard to truly connect with her feelings. The movie just didn't give her the emotional space needed to fully draw the audience in.

Several shots also felt unnecessary and didn't serve the flow of the story. For instance, moments like "give me the pistol," "here is the key," or "I will find you by the tree" felt irrelevant and distracted from the main plot.

The police officers, for the most part, acted illogically, as if deliberately making choices to frustrate viewers. Scenes like the fire or throwing the pistol into the car felt nonsensical and detracted from the film's tension.

By the time the climax arrived, the build-up felt so off that it failed to deliver any real payoff. Despite the excellent direction, including good camera angles, movement, and lighting, the technical aspects alone couldn't save Rebel Ridge from feeling disjointed.

Das letzte Schweigen
(2010)

The Silence Fails to Resonate
The Silence is a film that attempts to delve into dark and unsettling territory, but ultimately left me unmoved. While it deals with heavy themes of grief, guilt, and the ripple effects of a heinous crime, I found myself struggling to connect with the characters and their motivations.

The decisions they made often felt unexplained, leaving me questioning why certain actions were taken rather than feeling empathy or understanding. This lack of character depth, in my view, lies squarely with the director's approach to storytelling. The way the characters were revealed felt flat and distant, which stripped away much of the emotional impact that the story could have had.

One aspect I did appreciate, however, is how the film reflects the true face of German society. It portrays a sick community filled with people who, in many cases, are in the wrong places or positions. There's a disturbing truth embedded in the narrative: many people who are dangerous or morally corrupt can be found in positions where they shouldn't be, and this is a serious reflection on the state of the community itself.

In the end, The Silence had potential, but for me, it failed to hit the emotional or narrative mark.

Ta'am al Tufah, Ahmar
(2022)

A Captivating Slice of Art
I was completely captivated by The Taste of Apples Is Red. At 1 hour and 23 minutes, it left me longing for more. Its quiet, slow pacing held a constant tension that kept me glued to my seat, my eyes wide open, craving more context about the community, the situation, and the characters' lives.

This film is truly a work of art. From the image composition to the masterful lighting, every shot feels deliberate and poetic. The sound design spoke even louder than the visuals in some moments, adding a haunting beauty to the experience, I found it captivating with the slow, measured shooting style-filled with lingering takes and thoughtful pans- The tension was heightened by the score, resting on tremulous strings, making the emotions simmer even more.

The cast was impeccable, and it felt as though the script had been written specifically for them. Their performances were natural and deeply emotional, adding layers to the film's powerful themes. In short, I was enthralled from beginning to end, and I'm already wishing for more.

The Goat Life
(2024)

A Three-Hour Disappointment
I can't even begin to express how much I regret watching The Goat Life (2024). To say it was a waste of time is an understatement. The film is not only over-exaggerated but also blatantly offensive. For three long hours, it presented a distorted and unrealistic portrayal of two communities, and the experience was utterly unbearable.

The depiction of the Saudi characters as overly harsh and the Indian characters as overly simplistic and naive was incredibly unsettling. These extreme portrayals reinforced harmful stereotypes and distracted from any deeper message the film may have intended. Watching both sides being reduced to these extremes for the sake of some twisted narrative made me want to fast-forward through most of the film.

The movie was filled with endless repetitive scenes that served no purpose. It seemed as though the filmmakers were desperate to fill time rather than provide any meaningful content. The script and dialogue were on the level of children's writing-unbelievably amateur and, frankly, embarrassing. I still can't comprehend the buzz surrounding this film. It feels more like a politically charged narrative, promoting division rather than offering thoughtful commentary or artistic value.

Civil War
(2024)

Lacking Impact
Civil War (2024) was one of those films that stirred up a lot of hype on social media and streaming platforms, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The movie aimed to immerse the audience in the chaos of a civil war through the perspective of journalists, but I felt the execution fell short. Director Alex Garland seemed to want to show the challenges of being a war journalist, yet the result didn't quite resonate. Instead, it felt clean and distant, almost annoyingly so, as if it glossed over the true horrors of war.

Kirsten Dunst's performance was one of the few saving graces. She managed to convey so much emotion without needing to say much, which kept me engaged even when the story didn't. However, despite her strong acting, the film as a whole fails to offer a compelling anti-war message. Instead of showing how terrible and devastating war truly is, Civil War makes it look more exciting and impressive rather than the horrifying reality it should be.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night
(2014)

A Visual and Audible Delight
I was really captivated by this unique film. It's a visually stunning and audibly engaging piece that left a lasting impression on me.

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its visual composition. The meticulous crafting of each scene showcases the director's creativity and originality. The use of black-and-white cinematography not only enhances the eerie, atmospheric tone but also adds a layer of artistic depth to the film. Every shot is carefully framed, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic.

The mise-en-scène is particularly noteworthy. It effectively highlights the desolate, almost surreal setting of Bad City, and the characters within it are brought to life in a way that feels both otherworldly and deeply human.

Moreover, the sound design and musical score are integral to the film's impact. The soundtrack perfectly complements the visual elements, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. The auditory elements are as carefully crafted as the visuals, contributing to the film's overall sense of unease and intrigue.

In terms of direction, Ana Lily Amirpour's artistic vision shines through in every aspect of the film.

Don't Look Up
(2021)

A Well Crafted Movie
"Don't Look Up" (2021), skilfully directed by Adam McKay, stands out as a brilliantly crafted film. The Impressive performances by Leonardo Di Caprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, and Mark Rylance, coupled with the engaging narrative, and well made VFX/ motion graphics (that particularly caught my attention) showcase the director's exceptional skill and the talent of the entire crew.

As for its Oscar nomination, it is well-deserved.

In conclusion, The movie offers a gripping narrative, exceptional performances, and stunning visual elements that make it a must-watch.

I really enjoyed it!

Magnolia
(1999)

A Noble Attempt at Symbolism
"Magnolia" is a film that attempts to channel the spirit of the legendary director Stanley Kubrick, known for his mastery of symbolism and symbolic cinema. As a fan of Kubrick, Paul Thomas Anderson takes on the challenge of weaving intricate narratives, employing symbolism to convey deeper meanings.

The attempt to emulate Kubrick's symbolic style is ambitious, and while there are moments that reflect this influence, the film doesn't quite reach the same level of mastery.

One of the film's strengths lies in its seamless transition between various storylines. The editing is commendable, creating a fluidity that connects the characters and their diverse narratives. The ensemble cast, for the most part, delivers strong performances, showcasing their acting prowess.

The film, however, falls short of eliciting the emotional impact that one might expect from such a complex narrative. Despite the commendable performances, the characters' stories left me feeling somewhat detached. The emotional depth I anticipated was hindered by the overwhelming complexity of the intertwining plotlines, making it challenging to fully connect with the characters on a profound level.

There Will Be Blood
(2007)

There Will Always Be Kubrick
Now i understand why Paul Thomas Anderson once said We're all children of Kubrick, aren't we? Is there anything you can do that he hasn't done?

"There Will Be Blood," is a remarkable cinematic achievement that skillfully channels the spirit of legendary director Stanley Kubrick.

From the very first scene, it becomes apparent that Anderson has drawn inspiration from Kubrick's artistic sensibilities. The power of silence (near 15 minutes in the opening), the use of symmetrical shots, framing, the psyche of its protagonist, the use of music and a relentless attention to detail all echo that Kubrick is the teacher.

Not forgetting to mention the killing with the bowling pin scene, which is a great Stanley Kubrick reference, reminding us of the iconic "2001: A Space Odyssey" scene. That represents the inherent violence in human nature.

A Clockwork Orange
(1971)

A Cinematic Work of Symbolism
"A Clockwork Orange," directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick, stands as a remarkable testament to the power of symbolism in cinema. Kubrick's genius is on full display as he skillfully translates intricate symbolic elements onto the big screen, inviting audiences to delve into a dark and thought-provoking exploration of human nature and societal control.

While "A Clockwork Orange" might not evoke the conventional range of emotions that many films do, it undeniably demands attention and contemplation. It's a film that isn't meant to be simply watched.

Watching "A Clockwork Orange" at least once in a lifetime is an experience that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on anyone willing to brave its intellectual and emotional depths.

Barry Lyndon
(1975)

A Cinematic Canvas
As always in Stanley Kubrick's films, "Barry Lyndon" is not a conventional film by any means. Kubrick painted each frame of "Barry Lyndon" as if it were many works of art. The use of natural light, inspired by 18th-century painters, adds an ethereal quality to the film. Many scenes appear as if lifted from classic paintings that require a lot of the viewer's patience to absorb the beauty of the frames. The color harmony, composition, form, texture, and emotional resonance are all meticulously crafted to transport the audience into the artistic world of the film.

"Barry Lyndon" offers-a painting come to life that leaves a lasting imprint on the canvas of cinematic history.

Al Zind: Thi'b Al Assi
(2023)

Unraveling Threads
Al Zind started off with a promising narrative but gradually lost its cohesion and storytelling strength. It experienced a decline in its narrative coherence, with elements of randomness and inconsistency becoming more prominent, especially after its first episodes and specifically around the fifth episode.

Certain scenes were introduced with a burst of energy and spectacle, only to fizzle out later without any significant presence in the unfolding dramatic events. The overall characteristic was an erratic transition from place to place and event to event, lacking a clear or convincing transition. It's as if each episode of the series began to resemble a collection of disconnected sketches rather than a cohesive, well-structured narrative as seen in its early episodes. Additionally, there were noticeable technical flaws in the editing and transitions between scenes.

2001: A Space Odyssey
(1968)

Captivating Discomfort
"2001: A Space Odyssey" is absolutely a cinematic masterpiece that defies the boundaries of time and genre, leaving an indelible mark on both film history and the psyche of its viewers. The experience of watching this film is far from intense or violent, yet it possesses an unparalleled ability to leave a deep and lasting impact on its audience. For me, it was a journey that left me both fascinated and uncomfortable, a testament to the profound craftsmanship of director Stanley Kubrick.

"2001: A Space Odyssey" manages to evoke my sense of unease in a truly unique way. Its deliberate pacing, coupled with visuals, creates an atmosphere that slowly seeps into your consciousness, unsettling you at your core. The film's ability to evoke such a response is a testament to its power and brilliance.

There were moments that genuinely scared me. The average shot lengths and the deliberate pacing and rhythms of the film contribute to an unsettling sensation that can be likened to cosmic horror. Scenes stretch out, allowing the vastness of space and the unknown to loom large, intensifying the feeling of isolation and vulnerability. The long, contemplative shots draw you into an otherworldly realm, evoking a sense of insignificance in the face of the cosmos.

Watching this film, it's almost inconceivable that it was created in the the sixties. The futuristic vision, the crafted space environments, and the innovative use of special effects are nothing short of groundbreaking. The attention to detail in every frame is outstanding, demonstrating Stanley Kubrick's unwavering dedication to his craft. I don't want to delve into the Mise-en-scène of the this film, because it's indeed worthy of a book-length analysis.

Stanley Kubrick's genius shines through in his ability to transform a philosophical narrative into a surrealistic journey. The film's narrative structure is deliberately enigmatic, allowing each viewer to interpret its themes and messages in their own way. The journey of the monoliths, the evolution of mankind, and the enigmatic HAL 9000 computer all contribute to a narrative tapestry that is simultaneously perplexing and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "2001: A Space Odyssey" is a cinematic achievement that transcends time and genre. Its ability to evoke discomfort and fascination in equal measure speaks to its storytelling prowess. Stanley Kubrick's visionary direction and the film's philosophical depth make it a true gem of cinema history. This is not just a movie; it's an experience that will leave you pondering its themes long after the credits roll.

Day of the Fight
(1951)

Ahead of Its Time
"Day of the Fight" (1951) is the first old short film I've ever watched, and my curiosity led me to explore the genius of director Stanley Kubrick. From the very beginning, I was captivated by how he skillfully delved into the minds of the characters, conveying their feelings through powerful imagery. What struck me most about this short movie was its remarkably forward-thinking nature, demonstrating Kubrick's artistic brilliance even in his early works.

One of the aspects that impressed me greatly was the top view shot of the boxer's equipment. It felt like a concept taken from contemporary photography, a testament to Kubrick's talent as a visionary artist. Knowing that Kubrick's roots were in photography, it comes as no surprise that he was able to bring such an innovative perspective to film.

The layering in Kubrick's compositions added depth and intrigue to the storytelling. The shot of a boxer on his stool from beneath the stool of his opponent, for instance, was a clever technique that offered a unique visual perspective, heightening the tension between the characters. Moreover, his use of ropes in shots demonstrated a profound understanding of spatial dynamics, resulting in breathtaking compositions that worked both in still images and in motion.

While "Day of the Fight" is a short film, it serves as a glimpse into the vast playbook of this cinematic genius. Despite its brevity, the film encapsulates Kubrick's ability to captivate audiences and weave compelling narratives even in a limited timeframe. It is evident that even in his early career, Kubrick possessed a remarkable talent that would later solidify his place as one of the most influential directors in the history of cinema.

Fire on Fire
(2023)

A Nice Concept Lost in the Director's Misdirection
I approached the series with great anticipation, eager to explore its source of inspiration, "The Merchant of Venice," translated into the a television series. However, as the story unfolded, the series stumbled at its starting point, and it became apparent that the director bore the brunt of its shortcomings. From the onset, the project failed to maintain its initial promise, and a downward trajectory began to manifest in the subsequent episodes.

The blame lies squarely with the director, who allowed numerous non-essential shots to mar the flow of the plot, devoid of any significant meaning or purpose. The series grappled with a lack of logic, undermining its potential for a compelling narrative and giving the right time and space for the characters development. Though the series boasted a talented ensemble of actors, the director's inadequacies in guiding their performances were evident. While some characters displayed potential for growth, the overall lack of conviction in their development diminished their impact. It became apparent that the director failed to allocate sufficient time and space to explore the intricacies of each character fully.

The series held promise with its underlying narrative, but the dialogue, screenplay, and scenarios appeared tainted by disparate contributions from a group of writers. This struggle in direction hampered the overall cohesion and led to a disconnect between the narrative's potential and its realization on screen.

It is commendable how the writer successfully adapted the idea of "The Merchant of Venice." into an Syrian-Lebanese television series. However, the director's lack of attention to artistic perspective is glaring. Pre-production research and meticulous planning are essential for a logical and artistically enriching execution. The director's hasty approach allowed for a plethora of ideas to be introduced, many of which felt incongruous and nonsensical.

Despite its shortcomings, Fire with Fire managed to salvage some redemption in its final episodes. It was evident that more care and professionalism were invested in the latter part of the series.

Breaking Bones (Kaser Adem)
(2022)

Corruption without drama
There is nothing to be praised in this series except for the camera frames, shooting angles and some scenes whose success reason was the acting performance.

The storytelling of the series is very bad and its plot could not be more ridiculous than what I have seen.

I don't want to talk about the sound in the series because it was extremely bad, the sound mixing and the sound editing was the worst part of the whole work and I don't want to talk about the soundtracks that reduced the impact of the scene on the viewer, It was one of the weaknesses of the series.

Qaid Majhol
(2021)

A renewed experience
The technical aspects of this work made it distinct from the rest of the Syrian or Arab (drama) series works in general (Directing, Cinematography (camera movement, camera angles, lighting, and framing) with a good soundtrack.

The acting was mostly good with flaws that came from the storytelling, that's why the story or its incompleteness was the gap in this work.

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