This week I am catching up on my reading and viewing, and it has been a good week. Well, it's been good for film and reading, anyway. Television is pretty much dead in the water - with the exception of tomorrow night's season finale of SCC - right now so I'm going to give you all two films and no television this week.
Film 1: Requiem
I didn't actually watch this film this week, but I've been meaning to get it up here for the past couple of weeks. This 2006 German film follows the life of Michaela, an epileptic girl heading off to college in the 1970s. She and her family are strict Catholics. Eventually, a priest confirms that Michaela's seizures are a sign of demons and begins a merciless series of exorcisms. The film is very interesting and intense. Sandra Huller (Michaela) is relatively new but she is amazing. Think physical acting a la Christian Bale in The Machinist. The film isn't a happy one, but you'll marvel at the starkness of Michaela's life in contrast to Director Hans-Christian Schmid's cinematic vision.
Film 2: The TV Set
I watched this one last night and loved it! This film - also from 2006 - follows Mike (David Duchovny), a writer, as he tries to have his new show produced and picked up for the fall season. Along the way he has to compromise on everything, including his integrity. If you like television and want to see a not-so-subtle ironic look at the medium, rent this film. It's sad, funny, and the ending will tear your heart out. Just how far will one man sacrifice his art for his family? The cast is huge with such folks as Sigourney Weaver and Ioan Gruffudd. And you'll never recognize Justine Bateman as Mike's wife, Natalie.
Books: The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass
I have finally finished Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" trilogy. I found the books extremely enjoyable. But I have to say that I'm not sure I would have enjoyed them in my youth. In many ways, I had to read these books as an adult to truly appreciate them. Ten years ago I may have found them difficult to get into. Today, I think Pullman's criticism of organized religion is valid, although a little unfair at times. I do, however, really enjoy his view of spirtuality. His message is one of loyalty, bravery, and friendship and those are all things I can get behind. Unfortunately, not all people are quite so open-minded so I certainly understand where his criticism is coming from even if I don't agree with it. I hope The Golden Compass makes enough money overseas because I would really like to see what Director Chris Weitz could do with these books. (Incidentally, a quick look on imdb.com does not have The Subtle Knife in pre-production so things aren't looking positive.)
Okay folks, these picks are going to have to hold you for awhile. My family is visiting next weekend and I'll be traveling the weekend after that so I won't be back until Easter. In the meantime, watch and read lots! (And if you're looking for an Easter feast-for-the-eyes, let me once again put Babette's Feast up here as a suggestion. If you haven't seen it yet, you really should!)
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6 comments:
Requiem, yes, yes, YES! The seeing Requiem after enduring The Exorcism of Emily Rose just highlighted to me what's wrong with mainstream movies.
Right on about Sandra Huller's acting, Requiem is special effect free but man is it creepy and its all thanks to her.
Last night's season finale of SCC was awesome! The best part was Derrick's birthday present to Connor - completely unexpected, totally amazing. I hope the show gets picked up for a second season. I loved the voiceover/Johnny Cash/montage at the end. I may show those final moments when I discuss editing this fall.
YES!! SCC was toally awesome, and those were the 2 parts I liked best also. Bah, you stole my comment!
I have to admit that I got a bit teary-eyed in the park scene. Sniff, sniff. :-)
OK, I watched New Amstedam and wasn't very impressed. I think I'll pass.
I ended up going to see "The Other Boleyn Girl" Tuesday night. Not too bothered about missing "New Amsterdam," especially now.
I'm really, really hoping that the writer's strike will influence the networks to turn to year-round programming. I'm not bothered by not watching tv, but I like to have one series per week to look forward to. Now I'll be in a slump until my summer Sci-Fi shows come back. There will only be "Top Chef" to keep me amused.
Speaking of Bravo's reality tv, Christian's line was fierce last night. I thought his final dress was amazing. However, for wearability I'll take Jillian's line any day.
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