4 out of 5. ONIBABA by Kaneto Shindô was one
of the first Japanese films I ever saw. I remember the photography and
use of cutaways of the tall grass, luring you into a seduction of
safety. It twists and turns and gets really creepy as samurai bodies
pile up under the terrible hands of mother and daughter. This is the
kind Japanese horror film that I like. Great execution!
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4 out of 5. I'd never seen Almodóvar's work
but since watching VOLVER, from now on I will continue to seek it out. To say that it has heart
might sound a bit schmaltzy but his characters feel like you've known
them for years. Regardless of language
barriers you understand their plight even if it is as crazy and fun as
Volver. He captures the sweet-sexy cuteness of Penelope Cruz that I've
yet to see an American director bring out of her. If you like
unpredictable funny mixed with a cocktail of crime and mystery and a
dessert of great character development then this is the feast for you.
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3 out of 5. CUBE is a great example of how a
smart director like Vincenzo Natali can make the best use of his art
skills with so little. Like PRIMER the concept is deceptively simple and
yet highly believable in the context
we're given. It's a great little thriller/horror film that is clever and
smart without being overly aware of itself. I like these kinds of films
because when you pull back to see the larger picture there is an even
bigger story at hand.
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