s-andrews78 Reviews

L'Argent (1983)

one of the most efficient films ever

[10/10 · 22 December 2005]

Bresson's last film is one of his best. He leaves no room for anything extra. There are no more dissolves, no more music (just his brilliant soundtrack). He moves through so many many facets of society so quickly, efficiently and daringly. Today's filmmakers should learn a lesson with their 2 hour films which never get to the point.

You will never forget the car chase scene, where he as usual builds so much through the soundtrack. And the dog, roaming from room to room in a pinnacle scene is revolutionary.

Money corrupts, then and now, and his attack on french society was maybe another reason he was never given funding for his films.

Bresson's ability to show humanity, surprise, horror and complexity reminds of his hero Doestovesky and in this case Tolstoy.

The ending, the final scene and shot, pierces your soul.

Man Push Cart (2005)

A real new New York film!

[9/10 · 21 December 2005]

I just came back from a trip to New York and I was reminded of a film I had seen a couple months prior at the London Film Festival, Man Push Cart.

The film so honestly and beautifully captured what New York felt like when I was walking in the bitter cold streets. I had liked the film when I saw it, but walking on the streets I could not get the images out of my head. It had stayed with me since then. The cinematography is really beautiful and the main actor is really, really good. The director said in the Q&A that he is not an actor, but a real push cart vendor. So of course I bought a tea and bagel from one of the vendors and said hello!

The film IS New York, but could just as easily have happened here in London. It made me look at that invisible person who we see all the time around us here in London and that they are people with lives, and dreams. Very sincere and honest.

It is a really good film. I recommend you see it.