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Reviews
Byzantium (2012)
How Is This Not Better Known?
This is a work of art in many ways and I regret not seeing it sooner simply because "I don't do vampire movies." This is not your usual vampire movie. If you like art cinema, try this.
Another Earth (2011)
An Art Film That Happens To Be SF
A science fiction theme but music, pace, cinematography, acting and scenery more at home in an art theater. Lovely!
The science fiction theme revolves around a "shattered-mirror" theory of quantum entanglement on the world level. It doesn't need to make sense to a physicist; it's a fantasy.
A redemption theme that developed slowly and surprised me at the end.
The music was haunting and unusual, including the saw music that caught the imagination of many others on this Board.
The camera does an excellent and serene job with each scene. Nothing peripatetic about this movie and nothing needed.
Watch this when you have time for some introspection afterward.
Birth (2004)
A First-Class Work of Art
From the opening scenes, I was immediately taken with the cinematography and music. How unusual to be grabbed right away by a simple jogging sequence!
The repeated use of lengthy face shots was ingenious. Each such sequence was more expressive of the evolution of internal feelings than I generally see in any movie. Coupled with the excellent use of the music, I found the entire movie to be enchanting. Sean's "lack of personality" was to me a gifted portrayal of a child struggling to cope with the weight of adult knowledge and perceptions. The portrayal was very convincing to me; an adult often will exhibit little overt reaction when confronted with bewildering circumstances.
I had to watch it twice to really appreciate the beauty of the work.
The Machinist: Brad Anderson and the Machinist (2005)
Brilliant and Haunting
Just saw it in Showtime and still quite taken by the overall experience of the music, cinematography, plot, and mood of the film. Had to look it up on-line immediately because I had never heard of it or the director or writer. The acting has some spotty moments (few) but the story builds steadily and grippingly to the denouement. Taken as an integral whole, this is an unusually entertaining film. A fable of guilt and redemption.
This picture deserves cult status. In particular, the music weaves in and out of the drama, adding a wonderful emotional aura to the developing suspense. Yet I was completely unfamiliar with the composer as well as the other non-acting principle artists in the credits. A delightful surprise for my evening viewing.