sbaines-94744 Reviews

Don't Look Up (2021)

Refreshing and necessary

[10/10 · 28 December 2021]

This film delivers a much needed, uncomfortable, messy look at what happens when we become too obsessed with superficial distractions when we actually need to focus on climate change and other pressing global issues. It's entertaining and delivers a powerful message. The change in tone is exactly what was needed to wake us up.

Je Suis Karl (2021)

Believable build up, ending a let down

[6/10 · 28 September 2021]

I rated this film 6/10 because of its sensitive and believable build up of how someone might be drawn into "the scene".

Radicalisation of any kind starts with either desperation or charm. The film builds this up slowly and sensitively, with a youth scene which is attractive and seemingly advocating a "new" right movement. This part was well handled and explained. The ending seemed glib, rushed and unbelievable. The actors were charismatic and deserve credit.

The White Ribbon (2009)

Stunningly bleak and haunting

[9/10 · 21 September 2021]

The cinematography is captivating and the people, adults and children alike look and act so convincingly that this film is truly remarkable. The dawn of an even more chilling new era of two world wars which these children are about to enter gives the events yet more deprh. I grew up in protestant northern Germany and remember the very old people in our village, who would have matched the ages of the children in their old age. The women continued to wear similar fashions, with only shorter skirts, the hair worn exactly like the girls in the film. The language, the houses and even some of the interiors I witnessed as a small child are very accurately reflected in this film. The film strongly hints at a brutalised generation which is gradually driven to extremism. This might be simplistic, but is worth considering. Overall a memorable masterpiece.

The Woman in the Window (2021)

Wannabe Hitchcock, mildly entertaining

[4/10 · 16 May 2021]

Poor script, shame for the good female leads. The usual "thriller" tropes here just look tired and predictable.

Deadly Switch (2021)

Weak plot, but actually entertaining

[5/10 · 11 May 2021]

The plot is unbelievable, but the characters are mildly interesting and the film manages to entertain. The lead act is convincing. Overall more enjoyable than annoying.

Seven Pounds (2008)

Thought provoking

[9/10 · 21 March 2021]

A film which shows a suicidal Will Smith character, and this is made clear from the outset. As the film develops we find out about his mind set and his motivation to act in a way some viewers have found depressing and annoying. Accurately portraying a severely depressed or suicidal person demands this kind of dedication to consistently reflecting this type of traumatised melancholia and desperation. The film is well executed, thought provoking and touches our humanity.