Critiques with Moxy

Opinions on stuff.

[bennetsbonnet]

Pride and Prejudice (1995) + Text Posts (8/?)

[pizzazium-infinionite]

I feel like Jane Austen's novels are often minimized as "cozy" and "cutesy" when actually they are defining works of English language novels and insightful, often biting social commentary. and Im tired of people reducing her to like a "cozy author" or boiling her books down to a few bland romance tropes. she refined the novel form to an art. she defined genres of literature. she continues to influence creative works all over the world now. and idk im tired it is late and I dont have all the right words for this but it is just so frustrating

[critiqueswithmoxy]

Anything that stands the test of time should not be reduced to one or two pigeon holes.

[critiqueswithmoxy]

Movie: Mystic Pizza

Enjoyed this movie. Well written, authentic acting, it treated the audience like they are smart. Captured the 80s really well. Loads of people I could root for, and overall heartwarming.

Some problematic issues, which were a product of the time. A much older man and a 17 year old babysitter had a relationship/situationship. There was a female pressuring a male for sex, crossing boundaries and disrespecting her partner. Loads of offensive 80s terminology, and if you lived through it will probably feel nostalgic. Underage drinking.

Themes: female centered story, growing up, navigating romantic relationships, being yourself (indirectly), family and chosen family, class differences (poor vs rich), romance

Grade: B- (Nostalgia might have made this higher.)

[critiqueswithmoxy]

Movie: The Great Gatsby (1974)

I did not enjoy this movie.

Awkward. Too restrained. No redeemable characters. It was a bunch of selfish people acting out their whims, while an observer simply witnessed the story. I was shocked this is considered a romantic story. Obsession, mental illness, and entitlement in most characters. The entire movie felt held at arms length, and uncomfortable. I assume it was a choice - because many of these actors are accomplished in other works.

Themes: aspiring for money to the point of obsession, immature man can't let go, weak willed bow down to strong willed, love equals sacrificing your life (in happiness and/or your literal life), repress your emotions, lust and entertainment are secondary only to money, using people is okay as long as you're charming

Grade: D (There were a handful of extremely beautiful shots, and the 20's music was good.)

[critiqueswithmoxy]

Short Film: Jane Austen's Period Drama

Loved this. 12 minutes of pure joy for Austen fans. Laughed out loud many times. Deftly showed the roots, whomever wrote this knows Austen's work well. I watched in on Kanopy (free library resource.)

Grade: A+ (Even if you're not a fan, I think this would still be funny.)