jnwseatiger Reviews

The Way Back (I) (2010)

Human Determination to Survive under horrific conditions

[8/10 · 9 October 2021]

What was worse, the numbing cold of Siberia or the blistering heat of the Gobi Desert? Neither, the scariest environment was living under Communism and this isn't a Western bias viewpoint. This film is not slated as political but man's inhumanity to man in denying his basic freedoms is really well portrayed in this epic journey to break free of the horror of its subjegation.

Never Goin' Back (2018)

Stay in School

[7/10 · 2 January 2021]

These two actresses are so natural in these roles its like I am watching a few days in their life rather than a film. Dazed and Confused was my era and I find the differences in both the Music and Culture really interesting. While much has changed from the 70's, much stays the same. Because I teach this age group and could write a book of my observations of a generation which at times seems muddled and lacking in any direction, its films like this that gives better insight into the same quest of every generation... looking for that elusive "unicorn" that Jessie seems to be willing to trip to see but as you come to find out you don't have to go down the rabbit hole to get there

In Secret (2013)

Zola Appreciated

[8/10 · 2 January 2021]

As a European History teacher I can say that this film really captures the darkness of humanity that one of my favorite authors brings to life. It doesn't matter that its set in 19th century France, the lengths that man will go for selfishness and greed and the subsequent tragedy of it all plays out well in this great period piece. The acting is spot on especially from Olsen and Lange. The only weakness is the often weak attempt to portray the lot of women in that time. This film tries too hard. If you are a Zola fan you won't be disappointed

Make Up (2019)

The setting is the best character

[4/10 · 29 December 2020]

The rustling wind, lonely sea, off-season setting serves as a backdrop for this coming of age psychological drama which at times is suffocating and claustrophobic. I like the flashbacks and forward glimpses as Alice tries to figure out who she is. What is real and what isn't is part of the journey we go through at 18. Wish I had paid more attention

Shame (2011)

What the hell happened to Brandon and Sissy as children?

[6/10 · 28 October 2020]

Mental Illness done with an outsider looking in. The trauma in their childhood must have been great for these two to suffer what the viewer is witnessing. Any addiction is difficult to watch. I was exhausted after watching this film. Like a hunter Brandon's thirst could never be quenched. He is existing not living. There are so many facets to this fim that are interesting: the boss David's ability to have a family and indulge in sex on the side, people's willingness to go to a bar and have sex with a stranger and then go on with their lives, unaffected. Yet Brandon, with no ties to anyone, is smoldering and suffocating in the weight of his obsession. A good study in human behavior. I don't like sex in film for sensationalism but the sex in this film was like another character, the antagonist.

The Unraveling (I) (2015)

"We Have To Do Something"

[6/10 · 18 October 2020]

......unless you have experienced this horror or love someone who has you might not think this film is any good. Although predicable, and a somewhat weak ending, this film does an ok job of showing what a monster addiction can be. If you really want an artistic and cringe worthy film that also deals with this theme watch Requiem For A Dream. Those characters needed an exorcism not intervention.

Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019)

This film is for students of Pop Culture

[10/10 · 29 August 2019]

As a Cultural Historian, I found this film fascinating. The set was a replica of a time long gone and should win an academy award for set design. If you enjoy films about friendship, endurance and hope, you may like this. If you are a Tarrantino fan, this is unlike anything he's done before. But for me, the late 60's film industry and the transformation of society alongside it was so entertaining. It is helpful to know details of both TV, film and historical events as it enriches your viewing experience. It's obvious that this is a personal story of Tarrentino's early influence on his art. I found the message that Hollywood shaped the violent tendencies of an entire generation while the studios amassed enormous wealth was interesting. The differentiation of the lifestyle of Hollywood Hills and the Manson Compound really reinforced the message. Thanks Mr Tarrentino for a History Lesson with a fairy tale ending

Wildlife (2018)

Great Period Piece

[7 June 2019]

Top notch acting all around and a great perspective from the point of view of a young teenage boy as he painfully watches the dissolving of his own innocence. This is art in the form of film with a very interesting ending.