Change Your Image
gabycuevas-57165
Reviews
Stockholm (2018)
stockholm syndrome?? i get it now
Explaining the origin of the psychological phenomenon known as "Stockholm syndrome", Director Robert Budreau's new crime drama manages to recount these real-life events in a wildly entertaining manner. At the forefront of the strange developments seen in the film are Lars, played by Ethan Hawke, and Bianca, played by Noomi Rapace, whose captor/hostage relationship seems to illicit unexplainable romantic feelings between them. Lars is frantic in his criminal pursuits yet inviting towards Bianca and the other hostages, while Bianca maintains a more rational, yet still oddly naïve demeanor. The complex character dynamics between everyone function as effective plot devices, often serving as the catalyst behind many of the events in the movie. And not to be underestimated as well are the well-timed and cleverly placed moments of comedic relief throughout the film, where audience members increasingly start to sympathize with the robbers and ultimately a gain a first-hand look into just how susceptible one can be to Stockholm syndrome.
Soul to Keep (2018)
Memorable film with great plot devices
Soul to Keep stands out among the bunch of similarly themed horror films like The Prodigy, Hereditary, etc. By fusing elements of the supernatural and paranormal with complex relationship dynamics between characters, Director David Allensworth creates plot twists that not even the cleverest of audience members will see coming. Memorable scenes are also present throughout, with some of the creepiest and most disturbing visuals and events one can see in any film. Achieving the goals of both entertaining and scaring, Soul to Keep is a great example of how the genre horror is still as relevant and important today as ever.
Saint Judy (2018)
Timely reminder that the fight for equality is never over
Saint Judy is a compelling tale of bravery and determination in the face of sheer adversity. Challenging American laws on asylum backed by years and years of precedent, Judith Wood's relentless passion for justice is highlighted in this film as you follow her arduous journey through the American judicial system. Michelle Monaghan's portrayal of Wood conveys a sense of compassion rarely seen on the big screen, exemplifying how Wood's unwavering commitment to her clients and the greater good allowed her to change the legal landscape forever. Director Sean Hanish carefully crafted this biographical drama to not only focus on the story of Judith Wood, but also on the often-neglected realities of the immigrant experience. In a volatile political climate where women and immigrants are still fighting for equal rights and recognition, Saint Judy highlights an important step towards justice and equality for everyone.
Nommer 37 (2018)
Gritty, Suspenseful and Entertaining. Recommend to anyone.
While most crime thrillers make it quite evident who the villainous figure is, the magic of Number 37 is the cleverly crafted storyline leaves that notion entirely up to interpretation. Irshaad Ally's portrayal of Randall, a burglar/drug-dealer turned paraplegic, begs viewers to decide whether these unfortunate circumstances justify his manipulative actions throughout the film, often times risking the lives of those closest to him to save himself. More than just a movie about gangs and murder, Number 37 tells a gritty tale of the power of greed and corruption, and
how the combination of both can lead an individual's ultimate demise. Director Nosipho Dumisa's modernized approach to re-creating a classic pays off entirely, producing a powerful depiction of humanity's cynical side.
Darkness Visible (2019)
Great plot, visuals, and ending
Darkness Visible offers viewers the unique opportunity of experiencing a horror film in a rather exotic setting. The backdrop of bustling streets in India and intricate city streetways compliment the films fast-paced nature, as you follow main character Ronnie in his pursuit of the truth about his mother's murder. The many plot twists throughout the film do not deter, but rather capture the audience's attention, encouraging them to formulate their own conclusions and theories about what is going on. Director Neil Biswas employs rather dark and graphic visuals to convey an overwhelming sense of darkness, as the movie title implies, and suspense, throughout the film. This unique depiction of the classic "supernatural murder mystery" shows promise for the future of the horror genre and Biswas's talents, distinguishing himself and his movie in a category of film that appears to be oversaturated.
Life and Nothing More (2017)
Some of the most authentic performances given about REAL LIFE
Life and Nothing More is a quiet, calculated and purposeful look into the hidden layers of reality in modern America. The concepts of race, class, education and family intersect to paint a vivid picture of how these factors often function more as obstacles than anything else for the film's characters. The cast's breakout performances are anything but amateur, as their nuanced portrayals of a struggling African-American family emote a newfound level of both frustration and perseverance as they attempt to not fall into society's stereotypical expectations of them. While other films may employ extravagant tactics, the true beauty in Life and Nothing More can be found in its minimalistic nature, allowing viewers to intently follow the narrative and gain a true understanding of life, and nothing more than that.