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Reviews
Hypnotic (2023)
Hypnotic or Hypothetical ?
"Hypnotic" aptly addresses the direct theme of hypnosis and mind manipulation in contemporary society as its title suggests. However, its lack of depth in exploring this theme fails to capitalize on the latent gravitas the title implies, which has led to a divide in audience reception.
The narrative revolves around the fictional technology "Hypnotic," which isn't based on real-world science but is instead a pure product of entertainment. As a result, the distinctions between "hypnosis," "mind control," and "brain hacking" are not clearly delineated, sometimes suggesting a concept entirely different. This becomes problematic when the abilities depicted in the film intertwine with reality, leading to confusion. A notable weakness is the lack of defined constraints and rules for the characters' abilities, making it challenging to fully grasp the story's substance. The mechanisms and processes are left too open to audience interpretation rather than being explicitly explained within the film.
Ultimately, the complex plot impedes understanding, leaving unanswered questions post-viewing. While the film consistently maintains an air of mystery, it culminates in an unsatisfying conclusion. The focus on "the bonds of family" is evident, yet the message is obscured by an unnecessarily convoluted storyline.
The Fabelmans (2022)
Family Frames - The Unconventional Focus of a Cinematic Giant
I encountered "The Fabelmans" and, for the first time, found myself fast-forwarding through a movie. Despite its genre, the 150-minute runtime felt excessively lengthy.
The film, rooted in the real-life story of a renowned director, had me looking forward to interpretations from other creators. However, the director's personal recounting of his upbringing, though unique, missed delivering the unexpected twists and climaxes anticipated. A more compact narrative, possibly reduced to 120 minutes, could have injected the much-needed dynamism into the film.
My expectations were met with a stark reality check upon viewing the actual content. I had envisioned a deep dive into the technical intricacies of filmmaking and a celebration of cinematic passion. Contrarily, the narrative primarily fixated on family dynamics and personal relationships, resembling a stage play more than a cinematic exploration.
The initial episodes set in Arizona unnecessarily dwelled on family peculiarities and backgrounds, detracting from the narrative flow. This focus seemed intended to underline the protagonist's atypical upbringing but ended up overshadowing his unwavering path to filmmaking.
The storyline, upon moving to California, pivots entirely towards the protagonist, raising doubts about the relevance of this segment. It appeared to capture mundane life and student activities rather than delineating a burgeoning passion for filmmaking.
Discussions pertinent to film production only began to surface after the move to Los Angeles, and that too, deep into the film, around the two-hour and ten-minute mark. The preamble to the core theme felt unduly extended, making the journey to the heart of the film a prolonged one.
Ténor (2022)
Unexpected Voices - The Journey from Freestyle Battles to Opera Stages
"Ténor" emerges as a spellbinding film, artfully weaving together the essence of modern French culture with the timeless elegance of opera. This unique combination gifts the movie an unparalleled charm that captivates from start to finish.
At its heart, the story tracks an unexpected hero - a young man navigating life as a freelancer and working at a sushi shop. His world, deeply entrenched in the beats and battles of freestyle rap, takes a dramatic turn when a routine delivery uncovers his extraordinary vocal talent. This revelation propels him into the grand, yet unfamiliar, world of opera.
Yet, "Ténor" goes beyond a simple tale of discovered ability. It probes into the protagonist's intricate journey of personal and relational growth as he transitions from the raw energy of rap to the disciplined grandeur of opera. Unlike "Whiplash," which intensely focuses on the grueling practice behind musicianship, this film shines a light on the broader challenges faced and overcome in this unique journey.
Despite a seemingly straightforward narrative, "Ténor" stands out for its vivid character portrayals. The characters' skills, personalities, and nuances are portrayed with clarity, enriching the film's appeal. The casting of the lead role is particularly noteworthy, presenting a character who defies the stereotypes of both the rap and opera worlds. The evolution from simple to complex relationships is depicted with finesse.
However, the film isn't without its flaws. Certain scenes suffer from a lack of depth and uneven execution, and at times, the storyline progresses too hastily. This rapid pace is most evident as the film approaches its climax, leaving viewers yearning for a more fleshed-out resolution.
The Alpinist (2021)
Ascending Beyond Limits: The Alpinist's Solitude
In the realm of climbing documentaries, "The Alpinist" (2021) emerges as a notable counterpart to "Free Solo," captivating audiences with its raw portrayal of harness-free climbing. However, the essence of "The Alpinist" diverges significantly through its exploration of the protagonist's unique character and choice of terrain. Unlike "Free Solo," which navigates the familiar solidity of well-trodden mountains, "The Alpinist" delves into the treacherously unpredictable realms of frozen waterfalls and lesser-known cliffs.
The climber at the heart of "The Alpinist" embodies a philosophy rooted in purity and solitude. His approach to climbing-onsight, without the benefit of rehearsal or technological aids-highlights a stark departure from conventional practices. This deliberate avoidance of communication devices underscores a journey of profound self-reliance and introspection.
What truly distinguishes "The Alpinist" is its intimate capture of the climber's final expedition. The documentary presents a haunting yet beautiful collection of summit communications, personal photographs, and videos. These elements, coupled with footage from the search operation, offer a poignant glimpse into the climber's last moments, imbuing the film with a raw, emotional depth.
Climbing, as portrayed in this documentary, is not merely a sport but a testament to living on the edge. Climbers often gain recognition through monumental achievements or, tragically, through accidents. "The Alpinist" reflects on this dichotomy, presenting climbing as a pursuit that continually flirts with the fine line between triumph and peril.
The protagonist's motivation for climbing transcends the physical act, driven by a desire to honor the legacy of past alpinists. His reflection on climbing as a simplifier of life, a means to eschew the trivial in favor of mental clarity and peace, resonates deeply. This philosophical underpinning serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impacts of climbing on the human spirit.
The Maze Runner (2014)
Exploring the Unpredictable Maze of Survival
As 'The Maze Runner' unfolds, its adaptation from a trilogy-based novel into a film trilogy seems both inevitable and appropriate. The transition from page to screen, while poised for a sequel, might have felt slightly underdeveloped, yet the film's first chapter masterfully explores its complex and nuanced world, even as it courts occasional critique.
The narrative plunges us into an enigmatic environment characterized by three distinct settings: an intricately designed maze, a sprawling desert, and the urban decay of buildings and a city. This journey begins shrouded in mystery, as characters find themselves in an alien place, stripped of their memories and understanding of their purpose. This foundation of uncertainty adds a compelling unpredictability to the storyline, focusing on the characters' battle with the maze. By prioritizing the collective struggle over individual backstories and personalities, the film cleverly maintains a tight grip on the audience's engagement, navigating through an overwhelmingly alien setting with a singular goal: escape.
A notable aspect of 'The Maze Runner' is its dedication to realism, particularly in depicting life within the Glade. The cast's pre-production survival training in an empty lot, followed by a night spent on set, greatly enhances the authenticity of their portrayal, imbuing the film with a tangible sense of survivalist camaraderie and desperation.
Dylan O'Brien's performance as the lead, previously seen in a markedly different role in 'The Internship,' showcases his versatility as an actor. His transformation is so complete that he becomes unrecognizable, embodying his character's journey with a depth that anchors the film's expansive and fantastical world.
Seven Pounds (2008)
The Complex Journey of Atonement Unveiled
"Seven Pounds," a film that daringly navigates the intricate theme of atonement, subtly references Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" through its enigmatic title. This connection, while rich in thematic resonance, might initially elude the grasp of its audience, introducing a complexity that challenges conventional storytelling.
The film intricately weaves a narrative around the concept of "seven gifts," a motif that serves as a constant puzzle throughout the viewing experience. Despite the diligent attention to detail, the ambiguity surrounding these gifts persists, leaving a lingering sense of incompletion even as the credits roll.
At the heart of the storyline is Emily, a character battling congenital heart disease. Her journey is positioned as the central narrative, with the stories of other characters orbiting her as secondary arcs. This structure emphasizes the importance of her story, yet it is the exploration of the seventh gift that poses the greatest challenge for understanding and forms the crux of the film's exploration of redemption.
The protagonist's life, marked by a quest for redemption after causing a catastrophic accident, is one few could imagine enduring. The paths chosen and the decisions made in the wake of such guilt are thought-provoking, casting a spotlight on the profound depths of human guilt and the complex process of seeking forgiveness. The film invites viewers to contemplate the unimaginable choices one must face when attempting to atone for irrevocable mistakes.
Nomadland (2020)
High Hopes Met with a Different Reality
In recent years, the term "nomad" has come to signify more than its traditional sense, particularly gaining traction around 2012 as a descriptor for a modern, mobile lifestyle, often associated with the IT industry. This concept of working remotely, unbound by location, seemed to promise a blend of freedom and adventure. "Nomadland" cleverly juxtaposes this contemporary notion with the stark realities of those living on the road, not by choice but by necessity, creating a poignant exploration of what it means to be houseless in the vast landscapes of America.
Entering the film, I anticipated a narrative infused with the spirit of digital nomadism, perhaps featuring a young protagonist emblematic of the IT-driven mobility. Instead, the film presents a deeply introspective look at the life of an older woman, embracing van living as a form of retirement rather than an escape from the conventional work life. This pivot from expectation to reality was both surprising and, admittedly, somewhat disappointing. The romanticism of a free, untethered existence I had envisioned was contrasted sharply with the film's portrayal of a life chosen out of necessity rather than desire.
"Nomadland" unfolds in a series of muted, contemplative scenes that, while beautifully shot, maintain a somber tone throughout. The absence of a definitive plot or clear objective for the protagonist lends the film a realism that is undeniably powerful, yet it may leave viewers searching for a sense of purpose or direction. For those with personal experiences of transient living, the film might resonate on a deeply personal level. However, for others without such a connection, the narrative's impact could be lessened, its message obscured by the very authenticity that makes it remarkable.
The film also touches upon the idea that certain lifestyles inevitably lead to converging paths, suggesting a shared destiny among those who choose, or are forced into, a life of constant movement. This theme is subtly woven through encounters and re-encounters among characters, reflecting a broader, perhaps universal, experience of finding and re-finding community in the most unexpected places.
Wind River (2017)
Mysteries of Wind River -The Challenge of Deciphering Its Deep Message
While the plot is straightforward, lacking in complexity, the film powerfully evokes a sense of disgust and challenges the audience with the question, "What was the underlying message?" - a reflection that is not easily resolved.
The title, "Wind River," is named after the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming, USA, setting the stage for the film's narrative.
A notable critique of the film is Cory's excessively shrewd character, which arguably oversimplifies the plot and lends an air of simplicity to the story. The lack of information may also have been a contributing factor, as there were few people and the stage was covered in snow. On reflection, this could be attributed to Jeremy Renner's tendency to play dynamic roles in other films, influencing his portrayal in "Wind River."
The director's choice to evoke disgust likely serves to underscore the film's underlying themes. The persistence of this issue suggests an appeal to the audience to seize the opportunity to confront and understand these themes.
The lingering question, "What exactly was that?" is particularly relevant to the following points of intrigue. I found this out after researching it, so if you can figure this out just by watching it once, you must be an expert in suspense (?)
Q1. What was the hawk eating when you followed it on your snowmobile?
Q2. What did the sheriff see that he told the FBI he didn't see?
Q3. What did Connie try to tell Ben over the radio? Why did you think so?
Q4. Who killed Connie's daughter Emily?
Q5. Why does the film introduce a novice FBI agent in this context?
Zulu (2013)
Unveiling Cape Town's Apartheid Legacy through 'Zulu'
Since Cape Town was the setting in 'The Zimbabwean Sommeliers (2021)', I decided to watch 'Zulu' to see another portrayal of the city. I honestly expected a narrative similar to 'City of God (2002)', but it was entirely different.
The film is based on 'Zulu', a French bestseller known for its violent suspense narrative. While the original title is the same as the novel, the Japanese title 'Cape Town' feels somewhat mismatched. The setting in Cape Town doesn't significantly influence the content of the film. Cape Town was likely chosen as the setting because it is an apt location for the operations discussed later in the film. The choice of Cape Town as a setting is significant due to its deeply ingrained legacy of apartheid, which is still evident today.
The term 'Zulu' refers to the Zulu ethnic group, prevalent in South Africa, and is also the origin of the main protagonist (?).
The story uses the biological and chemical weapons development project "Project Coast'', which began in 1981, as a model. This is a pretty terrible story. The film contains numerous tragic scenes, largely attributed to this project's influence. The heinous nature of these actions, shrouded in mystery as to their origin and intent, contributes to the film's brutality.
The content may be particularly challenging for Japanese audiences, given its complex themes. While the film features graphic scenes, many aspects may be difficult to grasp without a thorough understanding of South Africa's policies and history. On the other hand, watching this film can serve as an introduction to the dark history of South Africa.
Honestly, it was difficult to discern the main focus of the narrative. At the very least, it did not evolve into a larger narrative about government opposition or similar themes.
However, one might be disappointed if they visit Cape Town expecting it to resemble the portrayal in this film. Cape Town is quite metropolitan. However, one should be cautious; as depicted in 'The Zimbabwean Sommeliers (2021)', incidents like a woman being robbed after getting out of an Uber, the dangers around Cape Town station, double-fenced houses, and unpredictable events in the old black townships, are not uncommon. My experience of being reprimanded for sleeping in a first-class train compartment reminds me that Cape Town is, after all, a part of Africa.
Blind Ambition (2021)
Beyond Borders - The Zimbabwean Challenge in Cape Wine Country
This documentary traces the inspiring journey of the Zimbabwe team in the 2017 World Blind Wine Tasting Championship. The fitting title, 'Blind Ambition,' poignantly mirrors their unwavering determination and tenacity in this demanding competition.
The story, set in Cape Town, delves into Team Zimbabwe's unique composition of refugees from Zimbabwe. This background not only enriches the narrative but also brings a poignant perspective to their journey, highlighting their struggle and resilience.
The documentary presents an intriguing contrast between Team Zimbabwe and the separate South African team. Marking the first formation of an exclusive Zimbabwean team, it included four of the top twelve contenders from South Africa, thereby focusing predominantly on their backgrounds and stories within Zimbabwe.
The documentary highlights the competition's extreme difficulty, where contestants must accurately identify wine characteristics like grape variety, country of origin, region, producer, and vintage. A notable aspect of the documentary is its emphasis on the competition's unpredictable nature, vividly illustrating how even the previous year's winner could become the current year's last-place finisher, thus emphasizing the immense challenge and uncertainty inherent in the event.
The film poignantly portrays the challenging circumstances in both Zimbabwe and South Africa, emphasizing the resilience and determination of those involved
The documentary is emotionally engaging, particularly in its second half. The first half of the documentary, slower-paced, concentrates on the two months leading up to the championship. However, the excitement intensifies significantly upon the team's arrival at the competition site, culminating in the compelling drama of the championship day, where various ambitions and conflicts intersect.
The documentary also sheds light on the personal struggles of the team members, many of whom had to leave families behind in politically tumultuous Zimbabwe. The team's journey is marked by significant challenges, including raising funds through crowdfunding (achieving a notable 6500 pounds) and the daunting search for a coach, all against the backdrop of limited awareness about the wine tasting competition in South Africa.
Their perseverance amidst such adversities is deeply moving, painting a picture of true resilience and dedication.
Furthermore, the film's conclusion, showing how each team member continues their involvement with wine in different capacities post-competition, is particularly heartwarming and satisfying.
The film intriguingly explores the ambiguous role of a coach in the team. At first, it appears that a coach or local coordinator is essential, which leads to thought-provoking questions about the team's independence and whether support from the South African team might have been adequate. This element adds a layer of complexity to the team's journey.
Fall (2022)
Eager Anticipation Meets Engaging Survival-Thriller
I've been curious about this film for a while, and now that it's available for rental, I eagerly watched it. As a film in the survival-thriller genre, it was quite engaging.
The story incorporates various twists and elements, each interconnected and well-organized, often used in ways that exceed expectations.
The pacing of the story was excellent, with no dull moments, allowing for an immersive viewing experience. The narrative flowed smoothly without any sense of awkwardness. It avoided the excessive trials often seen in other works, thus escaping any sense of tedium.
The plot devices and challenges included numerous modern elements, reflecting a creativity that could only have emerged in recent times.
Although the 2000-foot (609m) B67 TV tower in the film is fictional, its height resembles the KVLY-TV mast and its appearance seems inspired by the KXTV/KOVR Tower.
In September 2000, it seems three teenagers climbed the KXTV/KOVR Tower (the Sacramento Joint Venture Tower) to watch a fireworks display for a victory day celebration and then fell, fortunately surviving.
Additionally, in November 2017, an accident occurred in Hunan Province where Wu Yongning fell to his death from the rooftop of a 62-story building (about 270m high) while filming a video for the internet.
While high places have an alluring charm, they are also the scene of unending accidents.
While more captivating than the ski-lift stranded 'Frozen (2010)', it had fewer vertigo-inducing scenes compared to 'The Walk (2015)'. The nighttime scenes had a strong studio-filmed feel.
Detroit (2017)
Turbulent 1967 America - A Rendition of the Algiers Motel Incident
This film is based on the actual events of the Algiers Motel Incident in America in 1967. Released in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the incident, it tackles many unresolved elements, building its narrative through a combination of testimony and imagination. The inclusion of period photographs within the film adds a significant sense of realism to the story.
Set against the backdrop of the Detroit riots, the main stage of the narrative is, however, set slightly apart from the epicenter of the turmoil. The movie critically examines the roles of the Detroit Police Department, the Michigan State Police, and the Michigan Army National Guard. Its conclusion leaves a lingering aftertaste, prompting deep reflection on what constitutes justice. The film emphasizes the impact of the era, especially highlighting issues of racial and gender discrimination.
Due to its content, the movie is a series of tense scenes, one after the other. Will Poulter, known for 'The Maze Runner,' perfectly embodies the villain, contributing significantly to the film's intense atmosphere. The prolonged tension in certain scenes makes the story's progression feel slow, creating an almost unbearable anticipation for the ending. It leaves one to imagine how overwhelming it must have been for those who were actually involved.
Bedone marz (2014)
In the Shadow of War - Exploring Human Connections in a Forbidden Zone
The setting, narrative, and portrayal of characters in this film are all enveloped in an aura of mystery. Despite the minimal dialogue and sparse explanations, the film undeniably captivates its audience.
As a viewer, one is simply left to observe this enigmatic space and the relationships within it.
Set in the aftermath of the 1980s Iran-Iraq War, the film takes place near a prohibited area along the Iran-Iraq border, featuring an abandoned ship in a river. An Iranian boy scavenges for resources here, joined over time by an Iraqi boy, a baby, a watchful girl, and a soldier in camouflage. Their silent interactions weave an indescribable tale of enigmatic relationships.
Even without dialogue, the process of understanding their intentions and actions becomes apparent, as they are united in their endeavors.
The outcome is somewhat predictable: it's about what happens when people come together under such circumstances
The film may suggest that there are always those, whether directly involved or intermediaries, who wish for the absence of war. This sentiment could be a microcosm represented by the eclectic group gathered in the mysterious abandoned ship.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
A Tangled Web of Murder, Madness, and Mastery in 'The Silence of the Lambs'
The narrative intricately weaves the pursuit of a serial killer, the chilling mind games of a former psychiatrist-turned-psychopath, and the tenacity of an FBI trainee.
The film's title is exceptionally crafted, intertwining the symbolic lambs from the FBI trainee's haunting past with the narrative of the psychopathic killings. The film's cover art, featuring a skull within a butterfly, reveals its profound significance in the context of the movie's narrative.
Anthony Hopkins delivers an unforgettable performance as the unnervingly sophisticated and deranged inmate, bringing an intense level of eeriness to the film. His portrayal is so impactful that if he were before you in real life, it would leave a lasting, unforgettable impression.
While the film's climax felt somewhat contrived due to its overly convenient plot developments, the riveting confrontation between two intellectual giants was captivating.
The Silence of the Lambs' is the first in a tetralogy, with the chronological order of the series as follows.
"Hannibal Rising" (2007)
"Red Dragon" (2002)
"The Silence of the Lambs" (1991)
"Hannibal" (2001)
Interestingly, the infamous house of Buffalo Bill is set to become a lodging experience, managed by an enthusiastic fan.
Frequency (2000)
Imagining Conversations Across Time: Personal Reflections Inspired by 'Frequency'
After a long hiatus, rewatching 'Frequency' brought a multitude of new discoveries. Particularly memorable was the scene of communication with the father, but revisiting the film revealed many details I had forgotten, making it feel like I was experiencing a brand new movie.
The film's original title, 'Frequency,' directly translates to 'frequency,' aptly indicating the core of a story centered around radio communication. The nuanced understanding of this concept is also well captured in the film's Japanese title, which I feel beautifully represents the movie's mystical atmosphere.
The plot, where a bright aurora bending space-time allows communication with the past after 30 years, follows the classic path of sci-fi while adding elements of wonder, making it incredibly appealing.
This film prompted me to ponder a thought experiment: What would I talk about if I had the chance to speak with my parents from 30 years ago? In today's world, where conversations with strangers have become rare, it makes one wonder how such a dialogue with someone from the past would unfold. The advancement of modernization and the rarity of encountering old-style equipment also struck me as significant.
From a genre perspective, in my view, the movie can be classified as follows:
Time Paradox: Applicable due to its effects rippling into the present.
Time Travel: Not applicable as there are no characters physically traveling through time.
Butterfly Effect: Not applicable as it's not about small causes leading to significant consequences.
Equilibrium (2002)
Clerics and Emotional Control - Dissecting 'Equilibrium's' World Line
The title differs significantly in meaning between the Japanese title 'REBELLION,' which means 'rebellion,' and the original title 'Equilibrium,' meaning 'balance.' This contrast adds a nuanced layer to the film's theme. Given that both titles use relatively Unusual words, it's unclear if they were the best choices. While the Japanese title is straightforward, it also somewhat gives away the plot, which could be seen as a drawback.
Although the dystopian near-future setting is common now, given that this film was made over 20 years ago, its content and visuals were likely innovative for its time. The engaging content and plot lived up to the impressive visuals. Not only in imagery, the film also introduces numerous neologisms, contributing to its unique world-building.
In terms of the world line, maintaining a world without war was seen as "peace", and achieving equilibrium in the world was achieved by administering medicine (prosium). The story revolves around the relationship between a person who regains human emotions without taking medicine (emotional rule violator), and the crackdown on that person (klarik).
The main character's job is Clark. The literal translation is "pastor/clergyman," and the name seems to have come from its appearance. However, the fact that what they are doing is completely different from what they do today suggests that their world lines are different. The purpose of the mission was to "eradicate the roots of human cruelty" and "eradicate the expression of emotion."
The film features some action sequences that are exceptionally stylish and impressive. Due to its futuristic setting, the combat style is both stylish and aggressively innovative.
Just looking at the action, The action somewhat reminds one of 'The Matrix,' and given the timeline of the film's release, it likely drew some influence from it. The worldview is similar to that of "Divergent," which has a futuristic feel and a sense of restraint and confinement, but this work may have been influenced by this work because a considerable amount of time has passed since then. There were moments where the film seemed overly optimistic or unrealistic in its portrayal.
"Gattaca" was in 1997.
"The Matrix" was in 1999.
"Divergent" was in 2014.
I experienced some dissonance with certain aspects of the film's world-building. Unlike other similar dystopian works where language and script play a crucial role in human ideology, this aspect wasn't explored in 'Equilibrium' as it was in works like 'The Book of Eli'.
The focus of the world's equilibrium was how to prevent human emotions from returning. The coined term "emotion rule violation" is quite interesting.
If that were the case, it would be likely that they would create a new prison-like facility in a part of the area that had been completely destroyed and try to control it from there, but this work was different. Perhaps the setting of the work is deliberately made too soft.
Furthermore, the management system is weak in that the administration of medicines is left to the individual. Normally, it would seem that the administration of medicine would be a prerequisite for passing through a gate somewhere ("In TIME" 2011, there was a machine to check the time at the entrance to the workplace). It's a missed opportunity that the film doesn't delve deeply into how the administration of the drug is monitored or how emotions are detected.
This work can be seen as imagining a future without war, but I was left questioning whether a world without war, achieved at the cost of human emotion, can truly be called peaceful.
Blood Diamond (2006)
Shattered Illusions about the Stark Reality Behind
This film not only sparked my love for cinema but also instilled a deep desire to visit Sierra Leone, the setting of this memorable work. In Leonardo DiCaprio's filmography, "Blood Diamond" stands alongside "Titanic" and "Inception" as a favorite.
The film revolves around diamonds, specifically 'blood diamonds' as indicated by the title, which refers to gems mined in war zones and sold to finance rebel militias.
The film probes deeply into geopolitical dynamics, questioning the persistent civil strife in Sierra Leone and examining its intricate relationship with neighboring Guinea. The film suggests a semblance of peace, but it's premature to consider the absence of civil war as a true resolution. The country's wealth is still low, and there is a need for support, especially in the medical field.
Additionally, the film brings attention to the 'pink diamond,' a symbol of controversy and rarity, with a reported occurrence of only 1 in 10,000 compared to colorless diamonds. With an appearance rate said to be 1/10,000 of that of colorless diamonds.
Released nine years after "Titanic" (1997), where DiCaprio portrayed a young, struggling artist, "Blood Diamond" showcases his evolution from his twenties to his thirties.
"Titanic" (1997)
"Catch Me If You Can" (2002)
"Blood Diamond" (2006)
"Inception" (2010)
Though set in a land distant from Japan, the film mirrors the turbulent past of Africa, it also captures the ugliness of human nature surrounding the value and rarity of diamonds and other minerals. The narrative compels viewers to question the ethical distribution of wealth generated from these resources back to their countries of origin and if the compensation received is being used appropriately.
The Constant Gardener (2005)
Unimaginable social disparities and the darkness of the pharmaceutical industry
The original title "The Constant Gardener" is a symbolic expression representing the hobby of the protagonist, who is a gardener, within the story. This title reflects the protagonist's consistent character and dedicated stance, hinting at the deep themes of the narrative.
The biggest surprise of this film is its complex story that focuses on social issues, unexpected from its title. One might imagine it to portray Kenya's magnificent nature and the harsh life of its flora, fauna, and people, yet it reveals something completely different.
As for the plot, it revolves around a husband investigating the mysterious death of his wife in Kenya. In this process, he discovers the inhumane human experimentation conducted by a British pharmaceutical company. He strives to uncover the truth behind his wife's death and find meaning in her demise.
The narrative, heavy and grand in scale, unfolds gradually, like a vine unwinding. The protagonist's emotional fluctuations and nuanced expressions as new truths are slowly revealed were remarkable. The first half portrays his inner calmness and delicacy, seeking tranquility and peace as a diplomat and gardener. In contrast, the second half escalates negative emotions like hatred and regret.
The original novel is based on real events that occurred in Kano, Nigeria, in the 1990s. Considering this, the film seems to have been successfully adapted.
This work cuts through various perspectives, feeling complex and challenging. It makes one ponder the dark undertones and significant sacrifices behind the immense profits of pharmaceutical companies. It also prompts thoughts about the drug development process, including clinical trials and effectiveness assessment. The long duration and immense cost of research, coupled with the challenges of delayed release and the demanding nature of drug efficacy, are re-emphasized.
The film adeptly portrays the stark contrast between the harsh arid regions of Kenya and Sudan and the luxurious landscapes of England. This contrast effectively communicates the central themes of social disparity and ethical issues in the pharmaceutical industry.
Predestination (2014)
Elaborate time travel
This work is based on a novel. The film's premise, where the climax and development are articulated through written narration, creates a consistency in the story's content. The film likely benefitted from its clear focus on the story's highlights, beauty, and core themes, simplifying the adaptation process. However, since this work has a wide time axis, I think it was necessary to prepare various sets. Therefore, this work required a considerable budget.
The title is excellent. The title "Pre-destination" refers to destiny. The film highlights whether this is a predetermined fate or one that can be altered. Paradoxically, the science fiction element of time travel is a tool for moving through the time axis, and I feel that it is not an important content of this work. The film's subtle approach to time travel, using straightforward tools and few restrictions, effectively emphasizes the narrative rather than the complexities of time travel. As you can see, the conclusions were divided on whether it was self-contained or whether it caused damage to others.
This science fiction movie, especially a time travel movie, doesn't have the futuristic feel of movies that go back and forth between the past and the future. The protagonist can easily perform sudden time travel.
The film's direction and cinematography were also noteworthy, particularly the visuals in scenes traversing different time periods. The lead actor's performance enhanced the complex narrative, adding depth to the emotional aspects of the story. Watching this movie made me reflect on my own past and future, particularly resonating with the themes of destiny and choice.
There are two main things that make this film great.
A standout aspect is its treatment of challenging themes like 'sexuality' and 'LGBTQ', weaving these contemporary issues seamlessly into the time-travel narrative. I think it's wonderful because it depicts this along with the movement of time and space. I think it was written at the time of the original novel, but it shows the author's high level of creativity.
The second point is that the same people are facing each other. This is taboo in science fiction movies. What should I do to avoid meeting my past self? While many works focus on this, this work depicts a confrontation with one's own self. It's quite rare and I've never seen anything else like it.
This film excels in consistently delivering unexpected twists and maintaining an engaging pace, making it a memorable cinematic experience. If I had the power to go back in time, I would choose to forget the climax to experience the movie afresh.
Le otto montagne (2022)
Beautiful scenery makes you think about life
This work may seem difficult to understand at first glance, but upon closer examination, it beautifully depicts the complexity of human relationships and the beauty of nature.
The story, with its magnificent landscapes and deep human connections, has an unpredictable charm when watched for the first time. As the title suggests, mountains play an important role, and the visuals highlight the beauty of these natural landscapes. The movie features calming scenes such as tranquil lakes and snow-covered mountain peaks. Set against these grand natural backdrops, the movie explores deep themes like the flow of time and the purpose of life. Particularly impressive is the portrayal of the relationship between humans and nature, and the tension between fate and choice. Daniel Norgren's moving music adds further depth to these elements, increasing the emotional weight of the story. While the atmosphere is soothing, grasping the full scope of the story is challenging. The movie begins with the meeting of two boys, Pietro and Bruno, and through their growth and friendship, it searches for the meaning of life. As the story progresses, significant changes occur in their relationship, taking the viewer on an even deeper emotional journey. The beginning appears to focus on setting the scene and encouraging the viewer to empathize with the characters.
The pacing of the settings and scene transitions are fast, which can be understood as an attempt to visualize the rich content of the original novel. The novel belongs to Italian literature, and this might be the reason for its complexity. The effort to transform the novel's content into visuals is felt, but the amount of information depends on the viewer's ability to interpret it. Even understanding this, the transition of ages is abrupt (the scenes switch from ages 12 to 17 to 31).
Reading the original novel clarifies how the complex themes and characters of the novel have been visualized in the movie. Both the novel and the movie have different approaches but share the same emotional depth. Those who have read the book seem quite satisfied, and I was able to understand a bit more after touching upon it. In short, the title and the point this work wants to make touch upon the world of ancient India. Understanding the concept of Mount Sumeru (Sumeru Mountain) makes it somewhat clear what the work is trying to convey. From this perspective, the title can be considered quite excellent.
It offers more than just a story about climbing. While watching, I was deeply made to think about my own life and friendships. This work brilliantly reflects the depth and complexity of the human heart, evoking strong empathy in the viewer. In the end, it provides a moving experience that goes beyond just beautiful scenery, making one think about the true value of life and friendship. For the viewer, the end of the movie awaits with new perspectives and deep emotions. It is a work of value that stays in the heart, representing the interaction and values of people and life.