Change Your Image
bjorgy2000
Reviews
Human Nature (2001)
"Human Beha..er..Nature"
The directorial film debut from Monsieur MICHEL GONDRY, renown music video director. His credits include over 50 breakthrough music videos for many avant-garde artists including BJORK. His film "Human Nature" is no less of an optical marvel. One can, in fact, see in his film the things we've come to love in his videos. (Anyone remember Bjork running through the forest in her Debut "Human Behavior" music video?) This heightened-reality HYPERDELIC flick is as keen as its primal subject--mankind. It narrates a tale of three primates all driven by one thing...SEX. The film is not trashy, but funny and clever. Great musical sequences. Not as breakthrough as "Being John Malkovich," I think Michel was playing it safe. It still is a humorous revival, a relief from patriotic propaganda, Disney and Spielberg re-releases, sentimental melotraumas, and weak cynical comedies.
"Be ready be ready to get confused..."
Dancer in the Dark (2000)
"My Pulse was as High"
Brilliant and raw vision by the Knight of Dogme 95, Lars von Trier. This documentary style masterpiece leads us into the life of a fictional character named Selma. It might has well have been a biography, because everything was so honest and unpolished. The reality elevates itself beyond belief when Selma enters herself, her mind, and is transported from a world of suffering and handicap to freedom. Through her dreams, she lives. And through them, she...well you'll have to find out for yourself... Amazing dual soundtrack, and the DVD is very beautifully done, providing audio commentaries and behind-the-dance-scenes. There is also a feature by which viewers can select certain musical sequences to watch. The color and cinematography is picturesque. A high of human emotions.
The Juniper Tree (1990)
"My Own Private Branch of this Tree"
Bjork shines in this film. I cannot say that for the rest of the actors. The setting is great and moody. I love the black and white film stock. Everything is so atmospheric and beautiful, even though it does not conform at all to Hollywood narrative and aesthetic. A must see for all Bjork and Grimm's fairytale fans. See Bjork's video "Isobel," it's a beautiful manifestation of the seed planted here.
Being John Malkovich (1999)
"How To Be Funny, Smart, and Look Good, Too"
Finally, a comedy film with a brain. Some people want something to stimulate their eyes and minds, too. Spike J. does just that in his directorial film debut. Bravo to Mr. Charlie Kaufman, the writer.
An ingenious view on delving into each others skins and minds, and ultimately delving into our own. Metaphysical, but not heavy handed. This film is also quite inspired by Spike's experience in music video direction. He's done many videos for amazing artists (Bjork, Weezer, Fatboy Slim) and his craftmenship shows through in the way he chose to portray this quirky film. The actors are amazing (that includes John M. himself). Comedy is getting smarter.