andrewroy-04316
Joined Jan 2017
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andrewroy-04316's rating
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andrewroy-04316's rating
I don't know why it took me so long to watch Brokeback, a universally acclaimed film with two of my favorite actors starring in it, but I am so glad to have watched it. Brokeback Mountain prioritizes a grounded tone and atmosphere over dramatic dialogue and flashy shots. This is a story concerned with the harsh truths of reality, and of humans grappling with their passions. Coming into it, I would have never expected it to be such a film, but in a way it works as a film about passion and how people grapple with being unable to do the thing they love. I love the script and Ang Lee's direction. From the opening shot, it's clear that dialogue will not be added for the sake of it - people react to each other subtly and don't go on dramatic, unrealistic rants or one-liners. It's an intimate and ultimately quite simple story of two men grappling with the conflicting forces of their love for each other and the risks their love carries. Lee maintains a narrow and deep focus on this fundamental question by richly developing both characters, from their mannerisms to their home lives to their moments of weakness. As you would expect, both Gyllenhaal and Ledger are truly exceptional, with Gyllenhaal playing a vulnerable man and Ledger a subtle and quiet one. The supporting performances are solid across the board, with Williams and Cardellini particularly impressing in their struggles to relate to Ennis. The score perfectly suits the hopeful yet somber tone of the film, and the cinematography is gorgeous. This is an impeccably crafted film with not a second or word wasted. Every moment is atmospheric and you feel these characters deeply for every second. An early candidate for the best film I'll watch this year, I am blown away by Brokeback Mountain.
One Night in Miami does feel similar to a couple other major 2020 releases, Trial of the Chicago 7 and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, but ends up being a more effective blend of their ideas. The use of major historical figures and events to make a point about a social movement is reminiscent of Trial, and the clear theatrical, dialogue and performance-driven nature of the film as well as its emphasis on the black experience in America is reminiscent of Ma Rainey. The performances in ONIM are fantastic, and Kingsley Ben-Adir as Malcolm X is the absolute standout. Odom is also very strong, and their arguments were thoughtfully written and very well acted. While the film is clearly quite theatrical, it doesn't feel limiting as it did in Ma Rainey - the film still feels dynamic, thanks in part to the solid direction from King. It is a film full of life and passion thanks to the performances which give life to such great and influential figures. I wasn't sure I'd love this one, as I thought it would be another fine film but more preachy than actually enjoyable to watch, and it significantly exceeded my expectations. It deserves a best picture nomination and perhaps deserves to win screenplay, as it is one of the best of the year.