Thursday, January 31, 2008

How a young housewife is trapped into submission by her husband.


Martha (1974) directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder

No one can deny the poise,finesse and grace with which Fassbinder has directed some of the most charming women characters. This quality is currently being imbibed by some of the most talented filmmakers like Todd Haynes in USA and François Ozon in France. In this particular melodramatic film,Fassbinder is at his best and there is strong belief in the minds of true cinema admirers that "Martha" would surely rank as one of his best films.Initially the setting in Italy helps the film to build its momentum but it reaches feverish pitch once the events start to unfold in Germany. The two main actors are captivating. Karl Heinz Boehm has given a chilling performance as a bizarre husband. Looking at him no one can make out whether he truly loves his wife or troubling his wife sadistically remains his past time. Margit Cartensen is great too as the wife suffering humiliation at the hands of a man she thought loved him. To my mind, Martha would be of higher interest to all those who are keen on learning more about the depiction of women in new German cinema.

Sometimes films bashing white people are also made by black filmmakers


Le Jardin de papa (2004) directed by Zeka Laplaine
A big shock is in store for all who are finding this film's title appealing. "Father's Garden". Well, all the nature lovers will be highly and mightily disappointed. There is no sight of any exotic African garden in this film. What can one presumably see in this film ? One can see how a white newly wed French couple is badly beaten by black (coloured) African hoodlums. There are scenes of a French woman who is feeling nostalgic about Africa as she was born there. What is the problem ? It is quite evident that two wrongs cannot make a right. So the basic idea of "white bashing" is wrong. It is absolutely true that, in a not so distant past, white people did all kinds of atrocities on their black brothers but that should not result,under any circumstances,in the same unfair treatment to white brothers and sisters in today's contemporary world. So from this valid point of view this movie fails to deliver any message. As far as an ideological yardstick is concerned, the white producers are to be blamed for having financed this project. Why did they do something as mischievous as this ? Well, it is quite easy to guess. Many films are made exclusively for black audiences. Since the black poor are generally people, it is the white people who finance such films.All in all, this film might set a bad precedent for our talented filmmakers from Africa.

Franco-American relations will surely get a boost if this film is shown to the concerned people.


I Want to Go Home (1989) directed by Alain Resnais

Before shooting "I want to go home", if Resnais had thought of keeping somebody in mind, it is quite possible that he must have had ruminated about both American and French public. "I want to go home" shows why French fascinate Americans so much. It is a fairly honest portrayal of why French have all the respect for Americans. It is so hard to believe that this comic film was made by Resnais. For the last five decades, he has remained a highly intelligent intellectual cinéaste who has excelled in making difficult films about memories. Watching his films can be likened to a concentrated reading of a "stream of consciousness" oeuvre. Not only will this film charm die-hard francophiles like Paul Auster, Johnny Depp, William Fiedkin, Jim Jarmusch, Hal Hartley and John Malkovich but also fans of comic strips as it is not so often that one comes across a feature film in which there is a happy marriage of cartoons and film. Through this quirky work, Resnais has advocated popular culture as in today's world Mickey Mouse, Snoopy, Charlie Brown and Garfield are as relevant/necessary and useful for everybody as Flaubert, Stendhal and Sartre. "I want to go home" is a light film which provides a multiplicity of meanings for its viewers. On an elementary level it explores cultural differences between French and American people. On another level it is also a tale of an amicable reconciliation process which happens between a father meeting his daughter after many years. This emotional turmoil has been shown in a very dignified indeed subtle manner. Although it might seem odd, this film makes it absolutely clear that French have a penchant for admiring those American artists who have been ignominiously rejected/ignored back home in USA. One classical example is Samuel Fuller. He enjoys a bigger, dedicated fan following in France than in United States of America. "I want to go home" is a film which can be understood by all kinds of artists. It speaks of different arts like cinema, comics etc. This is why Resnais has collaborated with great artists like Enki Bilal, Jules Feiffer and John Kander. The highlight of this film is the fact that it shows how all arts are interrelated as well as mutually beneficial. In "I want to go home" the characters alternate between serious mood and comic mood. This is because people can't always remain funny or serious. Resnais makes us all imbibe a logical lesson that in our daily lives we have to react according to the situation in which we find ourselves. Lastly it is high time that it is said that although Americans might abhor French or vice versa, the truth is that both of them cannot live without each other.

No one is safe in USA. Why did Mr. Klutter have to talk so long ?


In Cold Blood (1967) directed by Richard Brooks
"In cold blood" proffers a multiplicity of interpretations. To those aware of black and white era, it will surely remain a perfect crime drama, humanist movie and a truthful statement about the American rural society which was very closely knit. All this might not be same for today's viewers whoever they might be, wherever they might live because they have only a brief inkling of that bygone era. This is not unusual as these folks are more used to today's films with explicit gore, mayhem, violence and bloodbath. So compared to all this the meaningless multiple homicide depicted in "In cold blood" might appear as childish or may be laughable to them. For its 134 minutes duration, "In cold blood" is a very gripping film. One genuine reason to watch it is its masterful original soundtrack by Quincy Jones. Apart from these factors there are many aspects of this film which have become old due to the passage of time. For example-an offhand viewer might get the idea that there is a lot of blood, gore and horrible violence in this film. However it is more of a psychological portrait of a senseless crime which was perpetuated by two highly irresponsible young criminals. In short it is a must for those people who appreciated Psycho by Mr A H. This film is in no way Psycho's poor cousin.

Excellent film from a Georgian master based in Paris : How can anyone ignore human suffering ?


Iko shashvi mgalobeli (1970) directed by Otar Iosseliani
There are many films which are made,were made and will be made.But the thing to remember is that a film that is a motion picture or a feature film is of no use at all if it just remain a plastic material (plastic film on which a film is shot).In the same manner there are many great filmmakers who don't make film.What they do is to make reality visible on a film.I am thrilled to say that the great Georgian master Otar Iosseliani is one such rare filmmaker who is a great painter of human sentiments on the plastic material.Iko Shashvi Mgalobeli is one of his best works.My personal opinion is that it has ample elements which are common to our daily existence. This is an ideal reason for admiring this film.The essence of this film lies in its championing the cause of simplicity as it is the best human virtue.Have you ever wondered whether a film can have therapeutic effect ? No.In that case please watch this film.Its sad disposition will surely transform you into a mature person.

An arrow full of mysterious power.


Hwal (2005) directed by Kim Ki Duk

Kim Ki Duk is the only filmmaker in the realm of world cinema who does not like to repeat himself. There is no story/idea/topic/theme worth human consideration which he has not directed. This is the reason why his films continue to hit us hard on our fragile brains. Hwal is one such film which captivates us for varied reasons. First of all most of the filmmakers have been rather circumspect while dealing with stories featuring an old person in love with a young person. This is not true of Kim Ki Duk. He has brought immense freshness to this theme as in Hwal there is an old man in a boat somewhere in the sea who loves his young girl friend with a view to marry her. His love is unique as it is more of a love based on dedication rather than lust. However in the course of time feelings change and a different reality emerges. This change of emotional events has been deftly handled by Kim Ki Duk as the film ends on a very abstruse note. The best lesson that can be learned from this film is to ruminate over the fact: why two people cannot love each other if they are not of the same age ?

Marcel Carné and the celebration of the greatness of French cinema.


Hôtel du Nord (1938) directed by Marcel Carné
Hotel Du Nord is a gripping drama of guilt in which Marcel Carne portrayed an entertaining tale of ill-fated love which also functions as a revolt against the cruel world.The film is based entirely on a pair of hapless lovers.Pierre and Renee were mistaken when they believed that suicide would put an end to their misery.Hotel Du Nord has its own inimitable charm as its inhabitants have become an essential part of the establishment.There is an element of togetherness as everyone flocks to Hotel Du Nord to eat,chat etc.Marcel Carne has remained true to the spirit of the films produced in 30s and 40s as Hotel Du Nord has a certain kind of nostalgic feel.Carne,while recreating the life of Parisian roads was able to create a sort of nostalgia for black and white giving a unique genre of poetic realism to his oeuvre.Hotel Du Nord can be termed as a quintessence of cinematographic populism.The 14th July ball scene on the banks of Saint Martin canal remains a magnificent sequence.The film's immense popularity can be judged from the fact that Hotel Du Nord has been declared as a national monument.

Common man's film with serious message and creative entertainment : you will find it all in this film.


O Homem Que Copiava (2003) directed by Jorge Furtado

In an age where our cinematographic vision and sensibilities are blurred beyond repair by senseless, worse than junk box office nonsense like Spiderman, Harry Potter etc, it is nice to learn that a film has been made in Brazil by Jorge Furtado which talks about a common man from a realistic point of view. This point of view gives us hope enabling us to lead our daily lives in positive stride.It is not as if films about common denizens have not been made in the past. Of course they have been made by numerous directors and shall continue to be made in the future too. However, the only thing that separates "The man who copied" from other films is its willingness to depict a protagonist with a noble cause. This is precisely why this film will be remembered for many years in the near future.As "The man who copied" is a brilliant film it invariably needs to be known far and wide.It is an eclectic mix of various genres including animation cinema. Lazaro Ramos, the rising star cum actor of Brazilian cinema is our rebel with a cause. He plays the role of a poor boy who wishes to triumph in life. Seeing him face countless adversities with a smile on his face,we the viewers get a smile too. Both the female leads are excellent joy to behold. One the one hand Leandra Leal is cute with girl next door appearance. On the other hand Luana Piovani is the ethereal femme fatale ready to wreck havoc.O Homem que copiava must be watched at all costs as it is film about family values which are slowly disappearing in a lame world living on the crutches of Internet, mobile and Ipods.

An extraordinary film about horrors of war


Hiroshima mon amour (1959) directed by Alain Resnais
Hiroshima Mon Amour is an extraordinary film about time,memory and horrors of war.Resnais has filmed one of the most innovative films in the history of cinema.The actress finds the sensation of her first love and identifies the Japanese architect as the person she loved in the past.Hiroshima Mon Amour was greeted by worldwide appaluse addressed,in particular,to Marguerite Duras who joined forces with Resnais.He asked her to write literature in a way as if she was writing a novel.As she was made to forget the camera,the script consequently had the character of an unending monologue which,at the same time,remained a dialogue with the past.The reality of Hiroshima remains continually marked as it has been shown as a pulsating metropolis where nothing can debilitate people's strength of mind.Sacha Vierny's stark visual images lend credibility to a love affair under difficult circumstances involving two distressed souls.Hiroshima Mon Amour,as a parable of ephemeral passion,will never age with the changing phase of time.

Young boy growing up : a charming "coming of age" film.


Héctor (2004) directed by Gracia Querejeta

It was after having watched this poignant film at a film festival in France that I found out that its director Gracia Querejeta is the daughter of a leading film producer in Spain. This should be taken as a good sign for Spanish cinema because a talented film maker is always looking for funds. If a director's father happens to be a famous producer than it is a good indicator that good films will continue to be made."Hector" is a very pleasant experience in cinema. It is one of those rare contemporary European films which highlight the importance of family life. In this film the principal focus is on a young boy making earnest efforts to get close to his father.He is helped in this pursuit by his kind aunt as she is also feeling the loss of the boy's mother.One particular good thing about Hector is that its pace is amazing which will never let the viewers to feel bored.The original soundtrack is very trendy and will surely soothe many ears.Watch it with your loved one. You are likely to realize the importance of one another.

Watching this film will enable you to know that it is not a typical Bergman film


Hamnstad (1948) directed by Ingmar Bergman

"Hamnstad" is one of the rare Swedish films focusing on family life.Its uniqueness is due to the fact that it has an eclectic mix of serious themes. These themes include bitter, harsh realities like abortion,broken home, correctional house etc. Bergman has deftly portrayed the dreary lives of its two lonely protagonists : Gosta and Berit. For this purpose, he has chosen a small provincial port town where nothing much happens. This film is a good record of how gloomy the life in Sweden (Europe) during 1940s was. Bergman has also shown us how all emotional problems are solved if lovers decide to remain true to each other. This is precisely the case of Gosta and Berit.Gosta has always led a hard life. He is a moody soul too. As a sailor, he has been out on sea for many years. For this reason he is unable to believe that some girl can enter his life in order to love him.There are doubts in Berit's mind too. As a loner, she tries hard to leave her past behind. As a young lass, Berit witnessed numerous fights involving her father and mother. This is one of the reasons why there is enormous distance between Berit and her mother. It is during one of these turbulent emotional phases that Berit meets Gosta. Even though Gosta is a tough nut to crack, his love for Berit is real. On one occasion, Gosta fights some young rascals to prove his intensity of emotional attachment for Berit. Gosta even proves that he is the ideal man for Berit as he solemnly ignores Berit's revelation that in the past, she was sent to a correction house. He urges Berit to make an earnest effort to leave her past behind. Berit has no hesitation at all in following this humble piece of advice. It is precisely in this manner that both Berit and Gosta embark on a successful journey to lead a happy, joyful life as companions for life. All of Bergman's film have a message to offer to audiences. Through "Hamnstad", he wishes to tell us all that being alone is a terrible feeling.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Good comic tandem :Rowan Atkinson and John Malkovich


Johnny English (2003) directed by Peter Howitt

In Johnny English nothing goes right for the character whose role is played by Rowan Atkinson.It is for the first time that I have seen Rowan Atkinson step out of his eternal "Mr Bean" mold and act.What an acting he has done.Just one word comes to mind :superb performance.As far as John Malkovich is concerned as he has strong European connections,he has played the malicious Frenchman's role with great dexterity.Watching him converse in Gallic accented English is an act of true pleasure.The leading ladies are good too especially the singer Nathalie Imbruglia. Although it has been a while that Anglo-French enmity has ended but this film has given it a new twist by depicting the wicked person determined to wreak havoc on England. It is a pity that no one has come forward to make a sequel to this film. When that happens it would definitely turn out to be a successful film.

Those boys were ahead of their times.


Der Junge Törless (1966) directed by Voker Schlondorff

It would be extremely difficult indeed impossible for the great master of New German Cinema Volker Schlondorff if he were to make Der Junge Toerless in current times as many would surely accuse him of spreading the message of anti Semitism.The truth is in reality this film does not harbor any such ideas.However that was not the case in 1950s when he directed this film based on a book by Robert Musil.Of course,it is not a layman's fun stuff film in the conventional sense of the word but one cannot remain indifferent to whatever that has been portrayed in the film. Many have praised the stand taken by Toerless in which he feels empathy for the victim but decides to ignore the events claiming to himself that as they are not affecting him why should he bother too much about them ? The real danger is that some of the viewers might perceive it as a thinking of the past and a very negative politically incorrect ideology. It is in the context of these thoughts that this torture drama behind the closed walls of a boarding school must be viewed.This is certainly not for the weak of the heart.

Revenge follows when innocence is destroyed.


Jungfrukällan (1960) directed by Ingmar Bergman

This film is nicely etched in my memory as it has given a new meaning to human feelings.Although it is a great Christian parable,the issues of human behavior,wisdom and responsibility have not at all been sidelined by Bergman.To quote some examples : how would a man react if his "apple of his eyes" daughter is wantonly raped by some miscreants. In most of the cases revenge is the most probable expected outcome.So the devout Christian father depicted in the film is persuaded to carry out savage killings.These killings cannot be justified but no one would want to leave killers go unpunished and commit other crimes if they have harmed someone's close family member.There is even pardon too as a plea is made to spare a young boy's life.In this film the depiction of a staunch Jesus Christ loving family is top notch.Good too are the scenes of medieval village life where families lived together mutually sharing all their joys and sorrows.Virgin Spring will surely appeal to you if you have a penchant for religious films.

Simply outstanding children's film made by a German and a Turkmen.


Karakum (1994) directed by Arend Agthe and Usman Saparov

What can one say about a children's film which is directed by two directors from two different cultures who specialize exclusively in made for children films ? Watching "Karamkum" directed by German Arend Agthe and Turkmen Usman Saparov one would surely say that this film is a good effort in promoting international harmony,understanding and peace.Karakum is a fun filled joyride which takes its two young teenage protagonists from a remote desert to a distant seashore.The unique lesson that can be learned from this film is that two people need not know a common language to communicate with each other. Communication is an emotional act that can also be done using common wisdom and sign language as shown in this film.Karakum has plenty of suspense which is bound to keep all the viewers glued to the edge of their seats.If you are fed up that your children are not watching good Children's films this is the film for you and your children.Watching this film there is an even likelihood that you might even forget all your silly flicks like Home Alone,The Lion King,South Park,The Simpsons etc.

A true story about today's kids.

Ken Park (2002) directed by Larry Clark
Ken Park is a true story about what today's kids have been doing all through their lives.Although the film is controversial,there is no denying the fact that it is highly useful for parents to find for themselves what they have not been providing to their children.In this particular film we have been shown kids who are engaging themselves in what some parents would call objectionable activities.This may be a topic of discussion but it is important to know who these children are and why their parents are not taking proper care of them. Kenpark is not so bad to watch as it has been made by some reviewers and critics but someone from a prudish family cannot show this film to his or her parents.The shocking thing about this film is that by banning it in some countries an effort has been made to smother creative freedom. This is not good for anyone especially not at all for a creative filmmaker like Larry Clark.A word of warning:Kenpark is not a film for people seeking solace in filmed images as it hits you hard on your brain.

Maggie Cheung has never been so beautiful,cute and full of innocence.

Ketu qiuhen (1990) directed by Ann Hui
Ann Hui is a legendary filmmaker who shot to fame in 1982 after having made "Boat People"-a film about the plight of Vietnamese refugees.She is also one of the founding members of the Hong Kong new wave cinema. Song of exile is one of her best films and it is a pity that it has remained a forgotten,ignored film despite the fact that it was in the competition section of Cannes International Film Festival 1990.At the core of this film is the tale of a young girl child who has grown in two different civilizations.As she becomes adult,it is difficult for her to strike a balance between ancient customs and modernity.There is trouble for her mother also as she is from a different country. Although the film is slightly autobiographical in nature,Ann Hui has made it a point not to forget to add numerous fictional elements.Maggie Cheung is the breathtaking protagonist of the film.As the film takes places in three different places with dream like quality, it is sure that viewers would enjoy their respective geographical displacements while enjoying the film.This is a film to be seen more than once.

How did Benny Torati learn of this film's Indian connection.

Kikar Ha-Halomot (2001) directed by Benny Torati
The Indian connection in Desperado Square should not astonish anybody at all as thousands of tourists from Israel visit India in search of spiritual enlightenment but unfortunately end up in a complex maze of trance parties in Goa where illicit drugs,prostitution and frantic orgies are the order of the day.However director Benny Torati has not dealt with this sordid theme.His film is somewhat an Israeli "Last picture show" as it shows a decrepit cinema hall fearing closure managed by two brothers and the only film that is shown is an Indian romantic film which dates from 1960.What is shown on the screen is a puerile tale of confusions in love and the same is also played in their lives.The film provides its share of laughter through an assorted cast of buffoons.There is ample sadness in this film as both the brothers are troubled by their love interest and no one seems to care for them.A double bill is assured for those viewers who want to watch two films for the price of one.Watch some maudlin material from an Indian film in a film from Israel.

King of the Hill (1993) directed by Steven Soderberg

Adrien Brody is a great actor. Soderburg must see this film in order to reinvent his old style.The good and unique thing about "King of the hill" is that it cannot be pigeonholed. It is neither the run of the mill, hippie dippy graced by the box office Hollywood flick not it is a sensible sample of the American independent movement. It is a film which is rarely made these days. This is because such films are made through a stroke of luck. A must for all the young kids who have ever had a bold direct personal encounter with poverty. Jesse Bradford is a joy to behold. So are Jeroen Krabbe, Splading Gray and Elisabeth Mcgovern. However the crowd puller is the great performance by Adrien Brody. He plays his role with tremendous dedication. Anyone could have easily predicted that he is a star in the making. As far as captain Spilberg is concerned. Just a word of advice : kindly reinvent your lost style by watching some of your old films. May be the world might surely benefit due to your watching your own films.

Real life story of a great woman film maker.


Kisvilma - Az utolsó napló (2000) directed by Meszaros Marta
Those who follow developments of East European cinema will surely know the importance of Marta Meszaros not only for Hungarian cinema but also for World cinema.She is one of the leading woman film makers in world who has made challenging films about women,their destinies,life of ordinary people under totalitarian regimes like Hungary and Russia. This is the last film directed by Marta Meszaros which constituted her diary trilogy.Kisvilma is the sad story of Marta Meszaros'childhood for which she chose her real life grand daughter Cleo Ladanyi.Cinema is like a family affair for Marta Meszaros as her son Nyika Jancso is also the film's director of photography.This film is about a personal loss in the form of a tragedy which upset the film maker when she was young.The film is a grim reminder of horrible days under Stalinist period when several innocent people were persecuted for no fault.A good film which allow people to know how people in Europe were tortured before second world war by dictators and authoritarian regimes.

It is not at all a mistake made by your Video Cassette Recorder.


Kôfuku no kane (2002) directed by Sabu

How would you react to a film in which the last scene becomes its first scene ? Impossible,no no no,how can that be true ...... These will surely be some of the most common refrains to be heard if a question like this is asked.However there is a surprise in store here.Blessing Bell directed by Sabu aka Hiroyuki Tanaka,one of the most talented Japanese actor cum filmmaker has made that impossible possible by using some of the most innovative yet down to earth techniques like no sound,black humor and minimalist film-making. He is ably supported in this endeavor by Susumu Terajima who has appeared in a couple of films made by great modern day master of Japanese cinema Takeshi Kitano.A lesson about life is to be learned as Blessing Bell has a good collection of scenes of daily lives which enable us to lead a life full of spiritual richness.Your VCR is at no fault if you find the repetitive nature of some scenes. They are very well the integral part of this film.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Hollywood studios will never approve such a film.


Les Glaneurs et la Glaneuse (2000) directed by Agnès Varda
At least a film has been made with courage,determination and above all without caring at all about what the film market would say.Who in the world had thought that someone would take the trouble of making a documentary about people who do nothing but sort out eatables from huge piles of junk.The one and the only unofficial grand mother of French new wave cinema Agnes Varda has embraced modern Digital video technology in a nice way thereby enabling us viewers to watch hitherto unknown facets of impecunious people's lives in France:a country which is always feeling proud of its state controlled socialist traditions. The film is a proof that documentary tradition is still very much alive in France and most of the established veterans like Varda do like to dabble in such uncommon ventures.The best parts of this documentary revolve around Varda as she takes a tour of France on her hunt for the gleaners.This is really France uncut,a France you have all been longing to see but never got a chance to do so.Voilà explore France with this film.

Hard to believe film from the master of US independent cinema.


Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai (1999)
directed by Jim Jarmusch
Everyone knows that Jim Jarmusch is a talented director.It is really a matter of mystery that he chose to make a film about ancient Japanese culture.What is of interest is that he has chosen a black actor to play that role. Funny isn't't it ! By showing a lighter side of gangsters'life, Jarmusch wishes to highlight the importance of laughter in our daily lives. I don't know many films where pigeons have played a vital role. In "Ghost dog", birds are the real stars. This is something which can put any human being to shame. Music of this film is exceptionally great. This is one of the reasons why this film is like a musical rhapsody.

An inscrutable marvel of French cinema's comic genre.


Gentille (2005) directed by Sophie Fillieres

Watching this film you would surely be thanking your stars that such films are still made in France. I am saying this as not many people in this world would venture out watching films like this leave alone filmmakers directing it and producers putting their money. "Gentille" is one of those charming "face in the crowd" film which has "living next door" look. Much of the film's happiness comes in the form of its leading lady Mlle Emmanuelle Devos. As she is in love, she decides to experience a series of lighter moments which would maker her life worthwhile. The gallic capital Paris is also nicely depicted in this film especially some scenes near an infamous pipeline called Centre Pompidou.Do not despair if you are not able to ascertain whether this film makes any sense or not. At first viewing it might not be easy for a casual viewer to figure out what Sophie Filliere is talking about. It is only with repeated viewings that some sense could be made out.

Silly film not going in any particular direction.


Le Fleuve (2003) directed by Mama Keita

This is a very bad film ladies and gentlemen. Kindly avoid it at all costs. I had to endure torture in form of watching it as during a film festival I was seated in the middle and there was no way I could leave the cinema hall. It is one of those films laden with violence, love story and some preaching. The worst thing about The River directed by Mama Keita is that it is through unplanned packaging it is made to look like a road movie which happens in Africa. One more thing some people might it find hard to bring down their throats the bad manner in which some of African officials have been portrayed in a negative light. Its musical score is OK and other technical credits are just below average. Watch it only if you are a fan of Stomy Bugsy otherwise avoid it like mad cow disease.

Brilliant study of human misery, hopelessness and alienation.


Le Feu Follet (1963) directed by Louis Malle

Le Feu Follet or "Will o'the wisp" as it can be translated into English is one of the most important philosophical films made by the great master of French cinema Louis Malle.It is based on a book written by Pierre Drieu la Rochelle who was influenced by Dadaism. Although this film talks of a difficult albeit dark theme of suicide the film's overall mood is not at all gloomy. This is because there are plenty of scenes infused with day to day humor.The film is about a protagonist who has lost all interest in life.Maurice Ronet,a major French film star of the sixties plays the lead role.He is a sort of celebrity among his circle of socialites and he is fed up of their useless company.The film portrays the last days of a person suffering from a drug habit.In some ways this film is an attack on middle class or French bourgeoisie.Although the protagonist is a part of it,he nevertheless makes vain attempts to untangle himself from it.If a separate genre of suicide films is formed, this film will easily find a proud place in that category.

Jacques Yves Cousteau must surely have had enjoyed this film.


Le Grand bleu (1988) directed by Luc Besson
Le Grand Bleu is the true story of famous French diver Jacques Mayol who challenged death.Jacques and Enzo were always passionate about sea and this passion gave rise to their spirited rivalry.Enzo will never give up as he doesn't want to be beaten at all by anyone.They approve the widespread notion that one who goes for a thing will get it not the one who saw the thing.Mayol's character portrayed by Jean Marc Barr reminds one of celebrated Jacques Yves Cousteau who advocated the philosophy of profundity by making underwater his home.Le Grand Bleu's strength lies in its wonderfully shot visuals as well as catchy musical score by Eric Serra.Even,Jacques Mayol offered his indispensable contribution as a technical consultant on this film.The film was a massive hit among youngsters throughout Europe attracting nine million viewers in France.Luc Besson created one of the best films of his career featuring impressive underwater images.The film's success proved that the aesthetic quality can only save the cinema which is facing tough competition from television.

Decline of the capitalist society seen through the eyes of an iconoclast film maker.


La Grande bouffe (1973) directed by Marco Ferreri

Marco Ferreri's film "La Grande Bouffe" is a scathing attack on the hypocritical ways of our modern society in which too much importance is given to wealth creation.His film is also a truly accurate portrait of the decadence of materialist society which promotes hedonism.The film goes on to make a vitriolic assault on people who have wealth and their ways and manners to spend such a wealth.All the acts shown in the film like over eating, orgies,"living life to the fullest without giving a damn about morals and what the society would say I don't care attitude" are all the products of human mind which does not like to rest.This is the reason why three young men of different socio economic backgrounds who happen to be friends decide to make merry knowing fully well that they have adequate means to engage themselves in such a wild pursuit.It can be surmised that by showing that irresponsible wealthy people can even die of over eating Marco Ferreri wanted to suggest that it is not only the countless unfortunate poor people in this world who die of hunger.

Akira Kurosawa directed beauty of human feelings, sentiments and life.


Hachi-gatsu no kyôshikyoku (1991) directed by Akira Kurosawa
Although aware of Akira Kurosawa's standing in the realm of world cinema,I have never been a great fanatic of his films as most of them are Samurai films heavily laden with symbolic references to Japanese society.For me Akira Kurosawa's non Samurai films are better films as they speak of deeper issues like human sentiments.I watched "Rhapsody in August" directed by Akira Kurosawa film with rapt attention.As I was watching it after having watched "Madadayo",I could not help but comparing it both in style as well as content with that film.Both the films were made by Kurosawa when he was at the end of his career and may be for this reason he chose to make humanist stories.Rhapsody in August is a meaningful tale for all people whether they are young or old,American or Japanese.It is a film which shows how important a family is and how wisdom must be passed from the old to the young. Kurosawa has deftly tackled the question of Japan's Atomic bomb tragedy through plain words spoken by an old lady who tells her young grandchildren that with the passage of time all wounds are healed.Rhapsody in August tells us albeit in a non academic manner why it is important to live peacefully thereby avoiding war for the benefit of peaceful coexistence and human society.

Some Frenchies are afraid of this film as it exposes negative side of France.


La Haine (1995) directed by Mathieu Kassovitz
France is slowly becoming a poor European country and many French people are not so happy with this film.If you pay a visit to any of the so called French cultural centers you will be surprised to find that this film will not be in the space meant for DVDs. Why is that so ? The decision to exclude La Haine from DVD space is due to the fact that France is the only nation in the world which relies heavily on its past glory.In our modern international world,it still talks of Moliere, Balzac etc knowing fully well that no one (at least French youth) is interested in them.France has nothing latest,recent,modern, contemporary to showcase to the whole world.French language books are always devoted to its writers,singers,new wave cinema etc.There is no chapter,no description of its immigrants,ghetto life and racism. Whatever that has been depicted in this film is the naked burning reality.Such was the impact of this film at the time of its release premier Alain Juppe had to call for a special screening to know what all the fuss was.One final word:three male leads:one Arab, one Jew and one Christian, isn't that bit intentional as well as obvious.May be Kassovitz wanted to reach as many communities as possible.

A sad tale of doomed love !!!


La Femme d'à côté (1981) directed by François Truffaut

La Femme d'a Cote shows violent emotional state of two melancholic lovers.Truffaut wanted to reveal the extreme steps of frustrated love.It is a brilliant story of passion set in the provincial french town of Grenoble which shows that love is the only thing that is universal.Bernard and Mathilde are truly the perfect lovers Truffaut wished to exploit in his film.There is a sense of urgency in their love affair as in a place where all the people know each other,it is highly improbable that any love affair can remain a secret.La Femme d'a Cote has agreeably given an idea about small town charm wherein Truffaut has vividly portrayed all the minor details of provincial life.Truffaut,while filming La Femme d'a Cote,hoped that the viewer would not be tempted to take sides in order to call one wrong and the other wrong but would love them both as he has loved them.Truffaut will remain the only filmmaker who has mastered the art of human emotions.La Femme d'a Cote gives an impression of an affecting account of human foibles by illustrating how a happy married man sacrifices everything for trivial passion.

Friday, January 25, 2008

Uzebek men prefer lazing around doing nothing


Erkak (2005) directed by Yusuf Razykov

"Erkak",is a bold Uzbek film by Yusuf Razykov.Its narrative structure relies more on certain ancient traditional customs still prevalent in central Asia. This is depicted by shooting in one of those areas which are totally cut off from human civilization. The entire film is full of symbolic value about the position of women. Although there is very little information about the reason for the mystery element, the film has nevertheless fine performances by its young protagonist. One major difference between this film and other films with young boy as the man is that those might seem as some sort of "Coming of age" films whereas this film is not at all a "coming of age" film.

Bridging the spiritual gap between two capitalist countries : Japan and Germany


Erleuchtung Garantiert (2000) directed by Dorris Dorrie

Doris Dorrie has got the uncanny knack of rendering us speechless with her serious comic sagas which depict mundane human foibles.Erleuchtung Garantiert recounts a few mirthful episodes in the lives of its "crazy about spirituality" protagonists Uwe and Gustav.Uwe has never meditated in his life but still believes that it would help him in lessening his conjugal distress.The problems arise for them as they foolishly spend all their money in Tokyo.Things come to such a pass that they are forced to spend a few restless nights on the streets.Uwe and Gustav seem to have lost themselves completely in a metropolis like Tokyo where everyone is busy chatting on their mobile phones.The path to enlightenment is tricky for them but they happily tolerate all inconveniences in order to find spiritual bliss.They finally reach the Monzen monastery where they comprehend their innate strengths and weaknesses.Uwe overcomes the agony arising out of his failed marriage.Gustav realizes that he was never happy leading the life as a heterosexual male.He grasps that he has always been a homosexual person.Even though Erleuchtung Garantiert has been shot on Digital Video,it still manages to retain its ineffable charm. Erleuchtung Garantiert's biggest positive feature is that it reveals how one should move away from the hustle and bustle of a materialistic society in order to gain inner happiness.

What is Victoria Abril doing in such a trite movie ?


Et après? (2002) directed by Mohammad Ismail

Although "Et Après" directed by Mohammad Ismail tackles the touchy topic of clandestine immigration, it does not have anything new to offer to an international audience. This is partly due to the fact that a film like this one can be made in all Asian/African and Latin American countries. As most of the people from Asia, Africa and Latin America are desperate to go to west by whatever means, there would always be people like Mustapha-a young Moroccan, who would risk their lives in order to amass maximum wealth using minimum time,energy and resources. This particular chap is a strange individual. As a male chauvinist, he likes to have a nice time in the company of beautiful white European women, he shudders at the thought of his sister going out. "Et Après" asks the basic question to all potential immigrants : What next ? There are not many who are able to answer it. As many of these people are either drowned or caught by police. This can only be answered by those who are able to cross the frontiers.

This is about Isabelle Adjani and Luis Bunuel connection.


L'Été meurtrier (1983) directed by Jean Becker
L'Ete Meurtrier is a compelling tale of vengeance which will surely appeal to all aficionados of thriller genre.Jean Becker embarked on a cinematic path wholly different in content as well as structure from the one taken by his legendary father Jacques Becker.There is a prevalent aspect of revenge running throughout all his films.L'Ete Meurtrier varies its tone and narrative style at regular intervals.It starts as an erotic drama and transforms itself into an agreeable account of retribution.Eliane takes cruel revenge when she learns that her birth was the fruit of her mother's brutal rape.Isabelle Adjani regretted having refused to do certain nude scenes in Luis Bunuel's renowned "Cet obscur objet du desir".This film gave her a chance to display all her erotic charms.She strips over and over again which boosted the film's Box Office success.L'Ete Meurtrier which won 4 Cesars in 1983 was fully dominated by Isabelle Adjani whose presence eclipsed all expectations.

Basic idea of this film is good yet it fails due to over indulgence


Extension du domaine de la lutte (1999)
directed by Philippe Harel

The French film "Extension Du Domaine De La Lutte" directed by iconoclast film maker Philippe Harel is based on the book of the same name written by a controversial writer Michel Houellebecq.He has also worked on this film's scenario.According to British cinema magazine Sight and Sound,it is also known as "Whatever".This film has been hailed as a breath of fresh air for French cinema due to its not so common theme of sexual politics and its implications on two stupid information technology workers.The film is marred by its much too evident voice over which introduces us to the main character.This makes us viewers feel as if we are watching a book that is bring read. The basic premise of problems related to loneliness due to chronic sexual drought is fine but the film goes out of hand once the hero starts recounting the misery faced by him and his friend.Instead of sticking to its main topic the film veers in other directions leading to its downfall.Beware:some women viewers might find not only the film but even its two heroes as moronic misogynists.

Kidnapping going bad : à la Coen !!!


Fargo (1996) directed by Joen Coen & Ethan Coen
Coen brothers are known to be one of the most original film making duo working in Hollywood.A lot of adjectives can be used to describe their films and the great thing is that no two films made by them are same. Fargo is a great film as it doesn't hover around neither Hollywood type conventional narrative structure nor sometimes hard to fathom independent cinema style.It is a film in which mystery elements are revealed following a chronological order.Coen brothers have taken proper care of the screenplay as they have added their own material to a real life event which took place years ago.It is not at all a film about mistakes made while killing people. It is a film about human sentiments such as greed,helplessness and dedication to work.All those who like films with story are going to enjoy it.There are no special effects,animation and other high tech elements.What is to be seen in the film is pure emotional poetry-a poetry of human sentiments.The cast is outstanding especially Frances McDormand who makes a good try at being a workaholic pregnant policewoman.

A wonderful rendition of 18th century European art life


Farinelli (1994) directed by Gérard Corbiau

Farinelli is a wonderful rendition of 18th century European art life where sounds of music spelled passions in the hearts of all music lovers.Farinelli's voice is a justification of his existence.The film remains faithful to ancient times.Broschi brothers shared everything equally.It is this tendency which has helped them to remain strong and intact.The film's brilliance is a result of mellifluous music,accurate set design,costumes etc all of which lend it an air of perfectionism.It is unusual that Gerard Corbiau has chosen this film after "L'Annee de l'eveil" although his new film "le Roi danse" is also believed to be in the same vein.Whatever might be the truth it can rightly be said that the historical inaccuracies have been subdued by elaborate set design and costumes.After the critically acclaimed "Le Maitre de Musique" Corbiau has sensibly dealt with music.He has proved that inspiration cannot be replaced with virtuosity.One must try to find real emotions in music.

Seductive charm of feminine beauty revealed in closed spaces.


Fa yeung nin wa (2000) directed by Wong Kar Wai

There is a very strong belief why the international audiences especially viewers in Europe and America have declared themselves to be the biggest of the besotted admirers of the Hong Kong film "In the mood for love" directed by Wong Kar Wai.According to many critical texts written about modern cinema, American and European cinema have completely lost the notion of feminine beauty. In contemporary times, it is in Asian cinema that this element has been found. If one looks closely at this film, it is not only the Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai but also the Australian cinematographer Christopher Doyle who have virtually cashed on this aspect by making the leading actress Maggie Chaung appear as highly sensual,seductive and alluring."In the mood for love" also gives allusions about unrequited love made coherent through maximum use of closed spaces. It also looks as if the filmmaker is trying to convey that closed spaces are fruitful in bringing human beings closer to one another.As far as mystery element is concerned it has been depicted by not showing the respective spouses of the couple in love. These are some of the basis reasons for watching this film. Watch it more than once with your neighbor. You are surely gonna enjoy this film.

An oddball film about people doing things without thinking about them


L'Ennui (1998) directed by Cedric Kahn

Cedric Kahn has directed this film based on a novel by Ialian writer Alberto Moravia.It is generally said that making a film out of a book is a daunting task.This is precisely the case with this film.L'Ennui is a real oddball film.It is due to its diaphanous nature as no one is really sure what the real theme of this film is.If viewers decide to ruminate over the film's theme,they will have to choose from some weird options:tumultuous sexual escapades in the life of a failed writer,exploitation of a young girl and lastly gross neglect of her old parents by a young girl.The film also suffers from a fundamental flaw which consists of its characters'vacillatory stances.There is a writer who is facing emotional crisis and is not sure of what he is supposed to do.There is a young girl who allows herself to be exploited.Charles Berling is passable as the writer in question.He outlines his frustration through his anger.Sophie Guillemin is above average in a lackluster performance.Admirers of pleasure in films might want to check it out but they would be grossly disappointed by this film's lifeless scenes of physical love.

Although unusual, a film that defies many rules, ideas and conventions.


En el nombre del hijo (1987) directed by Jorge Polaco
There is something which can easily shock any genuine film admirer. This refers to an iconoclast film maker from Argentina.Our film maker in question is : Jorge Polaco. He is a highly talented yet unknown film maker from Argentina.He has remained unknown as god only knows for what reasons other films from other Argentinian filmmakers have been promoted.This is because his films have not been widely distributed.A unique feature of all his films is their bizarre, outlandish characters and their eccentric behavior. Jorge Polaco is more than an artist too. He is a poet and has contributed a lot to theater also. This is why he is also known to have used a bit of influenced by theater style in his films. This film is about a son confused about his sexual identity. He is over protected by his mother. This film cannot be summed in words. It has to been seen to be believed.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Year 1953 : First international success by Italian auteur of dreams.


I Vitelloni (1953) directed by Federico Fellini

I Vitelloni, directed by Fellini in 1953 was his first international success.Although it is largely autobiographical in nature there is no obvious mention of Rimini,an Italian coastal town where Fellini was born.There are things to be learned from this film such as erratic behavior of a generation which grew up after second world war.This was the one of the rare post war films which spoke of conflicts within family.It is true that Italian master has drawn an honest portrait of aimless youngsters who were not fit for anything but what might be intriguing to an average viewer is to ascertain as to why Fellini decided not to throw some light about why his protagonists were like that ? This is the reason why Fellini has left all important reasoning task for viewers to decide about strengths and weaknesses of his protagonists.I Vitelloni is a film in which there is no escape for anyone neither for its young heroes nor for their family members who like them are also trapped in their own dreary existence.

A complete Steven Spielberg Film : No doubt about it.


Munich (2005) directed by Steven Spielberg

If one looks closely at Spielberg's cinematographic career, one would find that he has booked a special slot for controversial films which are even thought provoking to some extent.He achieves this hidden effect by choosing themes about which people are bound to have diverse opinions. This is the reason why Spielberg has complete hold over his work as someone like Richard Attenborough had for his film Gandhi (1982).Munich is one of a kind film which must be watched with an open mind as a biased viewer might spoil his own viewing pleasure.There is no need to take sides as nothing is shown neither in black nor in white. Although some of the situations featuring an ensemble cast of talented actors are truly spectacular there are certain confrontation scenes which defy logic.Although Munich tackles the same Jewish question as Schindler's List,it is very different from that film because of its insistence on color and an elaborate cast of actors.It is one of those rare American films completely dominated by French actors especially Mathieu Amalric.He is the only shining light of this somber drama.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Nostalgia for the past : Not at all a children's film.

Durval Discos (2002) directed by Anna Muylaert

Durval Discos directed by Anna Muylaert is a film for those viewers who let a film to progress at its own rhythm. Although it is about a young girl,it cannot be termed as a children's film although it can be shown to young children, teenagers and youngsters.It is certainly not at all meant for non serious viewers more interested in Michael Schumacher kind of start. If ordinary viewers remain patient they will be suitably rewarded as there are numerous twists and turns related to this film's plot. One more good thing about this film is that it will surely dispel the notion that most of the films made in Brazil are violent films. Those who have seen "Alice in the cities" by Wim Wenders will be quick to recognize the common similarities related to both the films.This film is little different from the German film as in it the suspense builds slowly to ultimately result in an amazing finale. Like Rudiger Vogler in Wender's film, Ary Franca too gives a memorable performance as Durval. With "Durval Discos", admirers of Vinyl or LP or 33 tours will surely get a taste of the nostalgia for the past.

Great film about growing up when it is hard to do so.

L'Effrontée (1985) directed by Claude Miller

Claude Miller likes to portray unhappy people as he believes that nothing happens to happy people.His films have won him both critical as well as Box Office success.L'Effrontee shows how hard it is to live as a neglected child with desires and aspirations.Claude Miller's poetic mis-en-scene imparted divine exquisiteness to a pure tale of uncertainty.Charlotte experiences the passage from childhood to adolescence in a difficult manner.Miller has created one of the best coming of age film in years.Things become tough for Charlotte when she is introduced to an alien world of music.She reminds us of our childhood dreams and frustrations.Miller has always championed the cause of young characters in his films portraying complex personal relationships. L'Effrontee is similar to his earlier film "La meilleure facon de marcher" as he has aimed to portray joys and sorrows experienced by adolescents in their formative years.As a cinéaste who learned his métier from Truffaut,Claude Miller will continue to create stories of troubled childhoods.

A true story about puppy love.

Egreti gelin (2005) directed by Atif Yilmaz

Atif Yilmaz is the Turkish equivalent of the famous French new wave filmmaker Eric Rohmer. Their films are becoming more and more sweeter as they are getting older. "Egreti Gelin" in Turkish means a borrowed bride. It is the poignant tale of a poor girl employed by a rich man to teach his son the tricks of a happy marriage. The inept boy rejects the girl chosen by his mother and falls for the poor "borrowed bride". Apart from these funny, comical scenes, the film has its share of drama as well as tragedy as the poor girl's husband comes from prison to take revenge on the man(boy) who has stolen his wife.A winsome film for all those who are enjoying the joys of true love.

Why Elephant ? It could have been some other animal.

Elephant (2003) directed by Gus Van sant

In American films,there is a general tendency to shoot violence in rather gruesome manner.Despite its scenes of gun rampage (young boys going amok),Elephant cannot be classified as a violent film.It is more of a frank statement on the state of affairs in contemporary high school world.One close look at the film will reveal that Gus Vant Sant chose to give a puzzling look to the film's characters.It is for this reason that there are too many hidden references,symbols.This claim is further supported by the use of innovative manner in which the film has been shot.One word about the characters is that they are all nice, talented guys involving themselves in their daily chores.Whether it is a boy busy clicking pictures or students answering question posed by their teachers there is a hint of quietness of their behavior.However the film does not give any hint as to how some of them decided to lead the path of violence.Both the beginning and end of the film are convincing.All in all, a very different film from what is made these days.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

How a dysfunctional family makes use of all its resourcefulness in order to save their only daughter.

Csók, Anyu! (1986) directed by Rozsa Janos

Family is an important unit of all cultures,civilizations and races. It is precisely for this reason that everyone strives to keep it alive at any cost.There might be fights, differences, ego problems or whatever you might call. The essential thing to remember is that when the family members join hands there is always a feeling of togetherness. Now for a bit of history lesson or nostalgia of the past,call it whatever you might.In the 1980s numerous astounding films focusing on the daily lives of common people were made in the
socialist nation of Hungary. "Csok Anyu" aka "Love Mother" directed by Rozsa Janos is one such unforgettable motion picture which has a dysfunctional family as its focal point. The center of attention is a small kid left alone to fend for himself. Spying on his neighbours using binoculars remains his favorite past time. As far as the parents are concerned, the less said the better. The famous Hungarian cinéaste Koltai Robert plays the businessman dad, more interested in his pretty young secretary. Talented Hungarian superstar Udvaros Dorottya plays the tourist guide mother of the house. The only complaint that can be made about her is that she wants to earn more money by conducting more tours for German
tourists. All this has some very obnoxious bearing on the young teenage daughter.She decides to take matter in her own hands by taking her life. Things are so pretty bad for this family as no one has time to speak to anyone.In the end all the acrimony is driven resulting in a new found happiness for all and sundry. Watching this feel,I am sure that you will feel that these days such films are rarely made and there are hardly any television networks worldwide who would be willing to show such meaningful films. I saw this film in 1990 on the
only Indian television network of the time called "Doordarshan". It showed marvellous world cinema classics as part of its "Late Night Screenings".For serious cinema enthusiasts, apart from this film,I would like to strongly
recommend a similar forgotten classic of Hungarian cinema called "A Hungarian fairy tale" by Gazdag Gyula.

Pitbull terrier. Hilarious ways of gypsies aiming to gain love.

Crna macka, beli macor (1998) directed by Emir Kusturica

One must not need to don a sociologist's hat to understand the funny ways,bizarre manners and traditional behavioral patterns of Balkan gypsy people. As they are true to life they form everlasting bonds with the most common of people.According to Kusturica,an essential lesson that can be learned from his film is that for Gypsies the honor of the family is sacrosanct and ethical codes have to be followed. Black cat,White cat is a powerful example of a film with huge doses of black humor.It is true that love or methods of getting love remain some of the basic premises of this film but it shows more than that. It shows a grim state of affairs which the Balkan nations experiences after their break up.A word about this film's laughing tactics.It is a joyful laughing riot based on daily life's absurdities. It is not a humor resulting from the cruel depiction of a person falling as a result of having put his feet on a banana peel.Mention must be made of its soundtrack which has been done by a team of three people.

A true visual adventure.

Delicatessen (1991) directed by
Jean Pierre Jeunet et Marc Caro

It is indeed sad to learn that French cinema has not been able to amalgamate science fiction genre with melodramatic parables. Delicatessen resembles many a science fiction film but what distinguishes it from other films is its detached
narrative approach. Delicatessen is a minor masterpiece full of tense atmosphere.Jeunet and Caro conceived Delicatessen as they believed that sometimes human imagination takes unparalleled powers.It can be classified as an enigmatic journey to hell with a happy ending.The plot has a fairly small bearing on character development as Jeunet and Caro incorporate numerous oddball characters.Delicatessen is a visual feast for hungry eyes.As a mocking assault on all social values,Delicatessen remains a true visual adventure of unusual precision.

It brings to mind Makk Karoly's classic Hungarian film "Szerelem" (love)

Depuis qu'Otar est parti... (2003)
directed by Julie Bertucelli

Since Otar has left is a humanist tale directed by Julie Bertucelli who in the past worked as assistant to great Georgian master of cinema Otar Iosseliani.This film can be likened to Samuel Beckett's famous play "Waiting for Godot" as in both these works of art the important focal element is that of patience.For those who are into serious cinema mention must be made of Hungarian classic film "Szerelem" directed by Makk Karoly.Both these films have a lot of common
elements namely protagonists who are not near their families as well as brave women who carry on with their own personal lives in the absence of a male member in their life.Some astute viewers might like to know about Georgia-France connection as depicted in the film.This comes from the fact that one of the film's characters is interested in French language and literature and for that purpose at her home,she has a very good collection of classics of French literature.The only defect of this film is its innocuous end which might appear as too deceitfully agreeable to some astute viewers. This film was chosen by legendary actress Jane Birkin as her personal choice at Créteil's Films De Femmes Film Festival 2006

Famous for all the wrong reasons. A good look at Creteil from the eyes of an odd


La dernière femme (1976) de Marco Ferreri

After having attended a film festival in Creteil (a posh suburb of Paris), I accidentally got a chance to watch "La derniere femme" on big screen. This invigorating experience took me in a not so distant past to a nice place called Creteil circa 1976. I was much too thrilled to have known Creteil through the vision of a maverick filmmaker Marco Ferreri for which he teamed with his regular partner Rafael Azcona. La dernière femme is a film which will easily please people of varied tastes. It can be liked by feminists,admirers of actors Depardieu and Ornella Muti and supporters of a highly unconventional filmmaker Marco Ferreri. The essential charm of this film lies in Creteil and its high rise buildings.Some of them are occupied by the likes of Depardieu and Muti.There is Michel Piccoli too who lends credible support to the narrative pattern. During my viewing of this film I did not mind at all watching a small
kid act alongside Depardieu and Muti.I doubt as to how this can be true of other viewers who might find such a move harmful for young minds. Watch it to explore other films by Marco Ferreri.

Food for thought : Although outlandish but a nice film which ends too soon.

Crime Delicado (2005) directed by Beto Brant

Some films make valiant attempts at making themselves likable by showing situations not visible in our daily lives.This is not at all a bad strategy.However one must bear in mind that as a film is a visual medium there must also be elements which can attract an audience and incite critics should a motion picture were to strike a fine balance between art and commerce.Crime Delicado is one such film from Brazil which shows some grotesque circumstances which go on to demonstrate that the reality is not what or how it appears and is unjustly perceived by our naked eyes.The entire film is a nice exercise in exploring the complexities of male female relationships.The director of the film Beto Brant has also shown a contemplative spectrum of various arts like Painting,Theater etc. The core of the film concerns the unraveling of an artist's predicament who is framed on trumped-up charges.At the end of the film after watching stupendous performance by Lilian Taubib one can realize why some crimes are indeed delicate.

James Dean, wheeled vehicles and physical intimacy : All rolled into a single

Crash (1996) directed by David Cronenberg

My first reaction regarding Crash is that a lot of unnecessary noises were made upon its release at the Cannes Film Festival.One close look at this film will prove that there was not even a single valid reason for censuring the entire depiction of human closeness, violence and vacuum in human society. Everybody know that what appeared torrid in 1995 is undoubtedly tepid by today's 2008) standards. The admirable quality of this film is Cronenberg's decision to film Ballard's book which has 3 most venerable elements known to human civilization:cars, closeness between a man and a woman and James Dean. No one will ever venture any inane guesswork that a film featuring the above elements can ever remain unnoticed. As human beings are always engage themselves in perpetual search for thrills in their hollow lives they end up doing things as portrayed in Crash. According to my understanding of this film, I reckon this is
the unofficial message which David Cronenberg wishes to give out to the whole world.

Blow for blow : Directed by the legendary French film producer Marin Karmitz

Coup pour coup (1972) directed by Marin Karmitz

There have always been clearly defined classifications of what a feature film and a documentary film should be.This is the reason why almost all the films follow this classification.Rare are those films which do not follow such a classification.Coup pour coup directed by Marin Karmitz is one such film which openly flouts this rule.It is not entirely a feature film nor is it a documentary film.Of course it has some non professional actors.The blows in question are the ones which some striking workers (most of them are women)would like to give to the factory and its management.In the film there is immense proof of female solidarity as most of the striking women share a family bond
with each other.This is a highly inventive film rarely shown on international film festival circuits.I got a chance to watch this film on the French channel TV5.This is a good film by Marin Karmitz.It is a pity that after this film he did not direct any other film.A must for those who want to watch some unusual film.

Comedy genre has become poor after the sad demise of Joao Cesar Monteiro.

A Comédia de Deus (1995) directed by Joao Cesar Monteiro

The great master of comic genre Joao Cesar Monteiro has made some of the most outlandish films in the history of Portuguese cinema. Very few people know that films made by him do not have any parallel in World cinema. His films are bold in the sense that they carry very minimal plot weight and rely heavily on the zany moods of its characters. Those who have seen films by the "highly unusual" German director Herbert Achternbusch will easily catch a glimpse of this
Portuguese iconoclast's vision. It is true that in this particular film things happen at a slow pace but they do not dampen anyone's spirits. One has to be patient in order to enjoy the richness of dialogs which are absolutely hilarious. They flow effusively from Joao Cesar Monteiro's mouth as like Woody Allen, he has also given many hilarious performances.A very mature, efficient and perfect visual balance is achieved in the final moments of the film as some unexpected events are depicted. If all this sounds interesting to you, please go for Joao Cesar Monteiro box set published by Paulo Branco's which is available in France.

A great film about love.

Les deux anglaises et le continent (1971)
directed by François Truffaut


One must try to watch Anne and Muriel with lovely feelings in heart as Truffaut has created a masterpiece of love.The love portrayed in this film requires sacrifice.This is a kind of cinematic oeuvre which will absolutely captivate your senses.You will wonder how Nestor Almendros has been able to create remarkable images.Everything about this film is perfect.This is a film to be watched with your partner provided you have ever loved someone in your life.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Excellent film about a brother, sister and their beloved.

Chère inconnue (1980) directed by Moshe Mizrahi
If one looks closely at the history of French cinema, it will be revealed that the famous actor Jean Rochefort has not got his proper dues. It is true that due to the lack of star appeal, he has never been hailed as a movie star. Whatever one feels, Jean Rochefort shines a lot in supporting roles or character roles. Look for films like "Le Mari de la coiffeuse" and "L'homme du train" made by Patrice Leconte. "Chère Inconnue" directed by Moshe Mizrahi is one such film which gives ample opportunity to Jean Rochefort to showcase the richness of his acting talents. In this film he is supported by two of the greatest ladies of the French cinema : Delphine Seyrig and Simone Signoret. As "Chère Inconnue" is a family film of excellent emotions, it must only be watched with family members. Just in case if you watch it alone, you would feel a longing for your family. Everyone is going to appreciate the brother, the sister and their beloved. Do let me know when the DVD of this film is made available with English subtitles.

Uncommon Tunisian Road Movie about dreamers

Le Chant de la Noria (2002) directed by Abdellatif Ben Ammar
The first thing which made me watch this film was the fact that Abdellatif Ben Ammar is a veteran figure of Tunisian cinema. After having studied cinema at the famous IDHEC film school in Paris,he has worked with some of the most respected figures of world cinema like Rossellini, Chabrol and George Cukor. He has even co-produced the film "Les Baliseurs du désert" directed by Nacer Khemir. Before making "Le chant de la Noria",Abdellatif Ben Ammar had already made 3 critically acclaimed films. This film is a kind of road movie in which proper care is taken of the depiction of the status of women in the traditional Tunisian society.Although road movies are a common feature of European as well as American cinemas, this is for the first time that someone has made a road movie in the history of Arab (Tunisian) cinema. This road movie is different as it is rather light whereas most of the traditional road movies tend to be serious.

This is not about a Las Vegas gambling house.

Casino (1995) directed by Martin Scorcese
I have never been a great follower of Martin Scorcese and I have never bothered to find out the reasons for which his films are admired both by critics as well as cinema lovers.All that I know is that the themes of his films are different and that he gives a so called specific Martin Scorcese touch to them.Casino is a bit long film for its 180 minutes duration.Sometimes it seems like a documentary about gambling industry.Acting performances by Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci are OK.Sharon Stone's acting performances are plain bad and sometimes it appears as if she is having a tough time giving a decent acting performance.Message of the film is still not clear to me as Scorcese has neither painted a glorious portray of casino industry nor does he appear to have a critical stance against gambling as a vice ? This film is good from a sociological point for those people who would like to catch a glimpse of the rise and fall of a powerful gambling boss.

One of the most outstanding films about life,friendship,love and the unending magic of an exquisite thing called cinema.

C'eravamo tanto amati (1974) directed by Ettore Scola.

Sorry for being much too lenient but in these perverse times where everybody is talking of global warming, please excuse me when I say that I just have wonderful praises for this great film. It is great on every front. What is the yardstick by which a great film can be measured ? A great film can be recognized by its inherent ability to make viewers shed some emotional tears and weep inconsolably. This is what this great masterpiece by Ettore Scola did to me. We all loved each other is such a pleasant film that it can be compared to a sweet lullaby. The ease with which the various dramatic events happen is a joy to behold. I am not really sure about this fact but I think that may be French master Claude Sautet must have been influenced by this film when he decided to make a similar masterpiece called "Vincent, François, Paul et les autres".Which one is the better film ? Watch both of them and find out for yourself.

Meeting Gero Camilo twice. Carandiru hits hard on human brain.

Carandiru (2003) directed by Hector Babinco

I still fail to understand why "Carandiru" was ignored by inane Cannes film festival 2003 jury.Hector Babenco is a great filmmaker and I have still not seen "Pixote".This film provided me a great opportunity to comprehend his style.To my mind it is simply brilliant.When I saw this masterpiece at a cinema housing 1500 people,trust me when I say that I was not alone appreciating its greatness.There was absolute silence and the remaining 1499 people were glued to the movie screen. The best utility of this film is that it tells us that every human life is useful.It is the circumstance which forces people to lead a life of crime. From a sociological point,Carandiru is a film with purpose as it has shown how both White and Black people live in Brazil.Some of the scenes are incredible and the depiction of the prison is truly masterful.I was lucky enough to have met Gero Camilo who had a good role in this film.Even the performance by pop star Rita Cadillac is astounding.This film is a must see treat for every sensible film-goer. For those who think that Frank Darabont with "Shawshank Redemption" has mastered the art of filming prisons,watch out "Carandiru" will teach you a thing or two about the portrayal of prisons in films.It was recently shown by HBO on its south Asian networks.

Conceited artist :Truman Capote's homo antics might get on people's nerves.

Capote (2005) directed by Bennett Miller
It was after having watched "In cold blood", I embarked upon a viewing session of this film. While I watched the former to ascertain what made so much of hue and cry upon its release, the latter gave me a helpful insight about the writer who decided to write one of the most controversial books of American literature indeed English literature. Although "Capote" is a weak film,to my mind it has its pros and cons. Pros are related to the technical side. It is a fact that Bennet Miller's style is rather sedate there are many technical issues which have been deftly handled. To quote a few, most of the viewers would be amazed to discover how Winnipeg has become a good substitute for Kansas. Much of the 1950s rural American landscape especially the Kansas landscape was found in that place. The cons of this film are related to P S Hoffman's portrayal of Capote.He has given a good performance but sometimes it can drive people nuts who are not used to Capote's homo antics. The best thing about this film or one should say that the real scene stealer is Chris Cooper as Dewey. He is the sole reason for watching Capote.

A film which works well as a serious document of human dignity.


Bulutlari beklerken (2003) directed by Yesim Ustaoglu

This is a great film in which the depicted events need a lot of patience to be followed,understood and put in mind.Although the film has some historical background,a person with true human heart can easily follow this film contrary to the belief that some elements about history must be read before watching a film with historical context.Yesim Ustaoglu has shot her film through the eyes of a small boy who is growing in a Turkey under conflict.There are some wise old women too around him who also have a great screen presence.The humor of the film is very limited and comes in the form of the observations made by the young boy.The photography by the renowned Polish cinematographer Jacek Petrycki is stupendous and every effort has been made by him to capture the beauty of the rural landscape. Waiting for the clouds is also a film about the search for identity as history forces people to question what they have been,why they are, what are going to be ? All in all, a very good slow moving film worthy of being appreciated with family members.

Missing is a film that must disappear from our sights.

Bu jian (2003) directed by Lee Kang Cheng

While attending film festivals, I make it a point to watch as many good,sensible,meaningful films possible.However there are certain occasions when I inadvertently end up watching bad films. My personal belief is that there are bad films and there are absolutely bad films which are eye sore. In a way bad films are not so bad because if all films were good than who in the world would go on to make a bad film. Watching an absolutely bad film is bad for a healthy mind as the ill effects of a bad film remain for a longer time.Missing directed by Lee Kang Sheng is such an absolutely bad film. It did not captivate the entire Makhmalbaf family who was also watching it with me. As a matter of fact mister Mohsen Makhmalbaf was seated in a row before mine. I can only make a wild guess at how much he must have suffered while watching this piece of nonsense.It is a different thing to act in a film and different thing to direct a film. Lee Kang Sheng got it wrong as his film is a bizarre attempt at garnering sympathy by portraying an old grand mother searching her young grand son. Makes no sense at all.

Lacking powers of narration : a less than ordinary Malaysian film.

Buai laju-laju (2004) directed by U Wei Bin Haji Sari.
God only knows how some people have dared to compare this film to the evergreen Hollywood classic Postman always rings twice. At least an attempt should have been made to ascertain whether Malaysia has any surviving film industry that merits any consideration however small it might be.Of course both these films have some common narrative similarities but may be those who made such a puerile comment did not bother to watch it with due attention. Swing my swing is a pathetic,outlandish,amateurish attempt at making a film with low cost production values.Although the funds for this film came from Australia ,it is a mystery as to how they were not properly used. All the three leading players have lost looks pasted on their faces.This film starts with a threateningly slow pace and its effect is felt throughout the film. Even the scenes depicting tragedy are devoid of any seriousness and that is the reason why they appear comical. For a filmmaker it is not a crime to make a bad film but watching a bad film is a sin for a viewer. So please do not turn yourself into a sinner by watching this abysmal film.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Looks like a funeral procession.

Cidade de Deus (2002)
directed by Fernando Meireilles and Katia Lund
In Paris,France after having met Katia Lund in 2006,it was difficult for me to fathom that this soft spoken charming lady has made a very violent film depicting the rise of violence in Brazilian slums.She told the audience that it is quite normal for Brazilians to live with violence as they have adjusted themselves to it.This is a very serious statement which in some way reflects the honesty on the part of Brazilian filmmakers. They are showing what is happening in their society and by doing so there are being truthful.The violence of City of God is realistic and no makeup has been done to it.The three key elements of the film: melodrama,violence and music compliment each other well.This film also has a procession like quality to it.It is as if the audience is watching some sort of procession going on and willy-nilly,they also decide to be a part of the crowd.On watching this film,I had the impression of a fun activity happening before me. May be others will experience that too.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

A psychological masterpiece from a great moral artist.

Blizna (1976) directed by Krzysztof Kieslowski
Scar is a brave film which takes its time to settle nicely in viewers' minds.It starts in a highly official manner and later develops into a family tragedy.In Scar the best thing to watch is the manner in which all the elements of human weaknesses are portrayed.Helpless characters not being able to come out of their shell is an accepted trait of Kieslowski's films and it is very much evident in The Scar too as its leading player Bednarz is trapped from all sides.He can neither free himself from family pressures coming from his wife and daughter nor from his job under a communist regime.It would be wrong to judge this film's characters based on their actions but it would nevertheless not be wrong to claim that they are victims of unfortunate circumstances as they are being trapped under a system in which change is slow to come and consensus is really reached.For all those interested in Polish cinema they are some very good glimpses of 2 of the most outstanding figures of Polish cinema : a young Agnieszka Holland as an actress and Jerzy Stuhr as a young communist party worker.

True love is platonic and demands sacrifice.

Brief Encounter (1945) directed by David Lean

I am a big admirer of Black and White films as they transport me to a different world.I am also attracted by British films (as they are different in content and style from American/Hollywood films) and seize every opportunity to follow the trends of British cinema.For me David Lean would remain the only true great master of cinema and this is one of his best black and white films.At first sight,Brief encounter,appears as a film about two married people in love.This is true to some extent but the film is definitely much more than that.The real issue is whether their love will be fulfilled.If we place the film in the time context,it would not have been possible for them to find love,peace and happiness with each other knowing that they are cheating their respective spouses.So the film has shown what was felt by the people of that time.Trevor Howard and Celia Johnson make a lovely pair.The film noir look of this film is a shining example of the brilliance of certain black & white films.A thing which can bother you is the constant chattering of a minor character.Save this minor glitch everything else is worth multiple viewing sessions.

Something must be done in order to do away with the eurocentrism.

Bienvenue en Suisse (2004) directed by Léa Fazer
"Bienvenue en Suisse" by Lea Fazer is a very eurocentric film. This is because it talks of countries like France, Belgium and Switzerland. This is not the only reason for appreciating this film. It can also be shown as part of your French class. Lea Fazer has made an honest attempt to do away with all the clichés that surround Switzerland. According to her even in a country like Switzerland there are people for whom their own interest are more important than anything. It must also be noted that this film is not a travel brochure for Swiss government. If someone wants to learn how a frenchman speak swiss french, watch out for Vincent Perez. There are good performances by Emmanuelle Devos and Podalydes too.

A quiet film based on a novel by Simenon


Betty (1992) directed by Claude Chabrol

Chabrol's true representations of women have made him a "cineaste des femmes".Betty signifies a change of pace for Chabrol as after years of thrillers,he has made a quiet film.Betty is a unique tale of a troubled bourgeois woman who felt that she could drown her sorrows in alcohol. Chabrol has accurately adapted Simenon novel as everything appears in a flashback.He has made it clear that he has not created neither a psychological portrait nor a moralistic drama.Betty is a collection of sharp obeservations on bourgeois life.She is a victim of circumstances as destiny did not favour her.Although,her marriage was based on love it didn't succeed as she was sceptical of it from the beginning.What she really wanted was companionship.Betty and Laure share a strange friendship built on mutual trust and respect.Betty's heartrending tale confirms that no woman will ever leave her family unless something tragic happens to her.

Responsibilities of an artist shown through Rivette's singular cinematographic vision.

La Belle Noiseuse (1991) directed by Jacques Rivette
Edouard Frenhofer-a renowned painter left his supreme creation "La Belle Noiseuse" unfinished for ten years.His wife Liz modeled for it.He receives Porbus-an art agent and a young ambitious painter Nicolas in his château in the south of France.Porbus convinces him to complete the painting with a fresh model Marianne.This leads to an emotional turmoil between Frenhofer,Liz and Marianne.Jacques Rivette has created films which are fascinating examples of human emotions.As an avant-garde filmmaker,he relies heavily on literary texts.The film is a loose adaptation of Honore de Balzac's short story "The Unknown Masterpiece".La Belle Noiseuse is an honest film about creativity and its implications on our daily lives.It is true that Rivette took 4 hours of screen time in order to get to the bottom of his protagonists' emotional turmoil yet the wait is worth it as it is too small a price to pay.La Belle Noiseuse demands active participation on audience's part as Rivette makes us examine all aspects of creative art.Frenhofer,through his art attempts to make us comprehend basic human weakness felt by an artist.He dropped the idea of La Belle Noiseuse as he was scared and had not set foot in his atelier for a long time.The four-hour La Belle noiseuse was also released in 1993 in a two-hour version,entitled Divertimento as France 3 felt that a shorter version would be easy for everyone to grasp.The 4 hour film will certainly prove to be a nerve wrecking cinematic encounter for laid-back viewers who are not used to Rivette's protracted style of film-making.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Music lovers and food lovers play an important role.

Babettes Gæstebud (1987) directed by Gabriel Axel

This is a very nice Danish film by Gabriel Axel. It will surely please not only music lovers but also the connoisseurs of fine food. The major events take place in Jutland where two sisters are learning music from a Frenchman. Apart from music one of them also experiences disappointment linked to first love. There is brief mention of religion too as the filmmaker has showed some pious church goers.For these people the life is very serene and they don't know that it is going to change after the arrival of a master cook.This role is played by a charming French actress: Stephane Audran. She prepares a very excellent meal for her master in which all the village are invited. It is a joy to watch simple village folk enjoying tasty gourmet coupled with marvelous wines and champagne. So all you music and food lovers gear up. This is a film you are likely to cherish for a long, long, long time.

Turkish children born in the month of April !!!

Aprilkinder (1998) directed by Yuksel Yavuz

Yuksel Yavuz's "Aprilkinder" is a part of new genre of German cinema made by young Turkish filmmakers based in Germany.He has been successful in depicting a conventional Turkish society yearning for freedom.He shows a society completely dominated by orthodox family customs where the eldest boy is supposed to marry a girl whom he has not at all seen.The family exercises tough control over children.Cem's sister Dilan represents a new breed of Turkish girls who crave for a life devoid of restrictions.Yavuz's film portrays how Turks remain in their own society.They prefer listening to their own music in Dance Halls.The older generation does not even converse in German. Aprilkinder satisfactorily illustrates rampant discrimination in German society which does not allow
Turkish nationals to get decent jobs.They are forced to do menial jobs.

Joao Cesar Monteiro : Master of absurdity tackling religion single handedly.

As Bodas de Deus (1999) directed by Joao Cesar Monteiro
Joao Cesar Monteiro is no more with us.But for me he is the greatest filmmaker of all times.This film proves his talent in making absolutist comical dramas of hidden motives.He is a great actor too and has appeared in his own films on various occasions.It appears that the basic issue of this film is to ascertain whether a human being can be god or not.Everybody knows that it is difficult to be a god.Since this narrative idea is laden with umpteen elements of zany absurdity,a lot of patience is required to watch carefully the events unfold. Joao Cesar Monteiro has tackled Christian religion too in this film.The result of this conflict is delightful.There is a good cinematographic representation of old versus new too.This makes us aware of the fact that old people are full of wisdom unlike their young counterparts. This film like its filmmaker has kept a very low profile.This is the reason why it is not for people asking more and more action, happening and events.