Kiarash Sotoudeh

Kiarash/Kyle Sotoudeh's Blog for film reviews and other stuff :0

[kyle-reviews]

Parasite Review

After months of anticipation and dodging spoilers online, I finally got to see Parasite, a movie that took not just the Oscars but the whole world by storm. From the very first scene, I knew I was diving into something more than a simple film. Parasite is not just a narrative; it's a social dissection. It places you right in the heart of the lives of two starkly different families and the intricate dynamics between them. As the story plays out, you're left contemplating the underlying themes: social disparity, class struggle, and the disturbing reality of a world divided. The beauty of Parasite lies in its ambiguity, allowing each viewer to derive their unique interpretations and conclusions about its socio-political commentary.

The film opens with the Kim family, living in a semi-basement, scavenging for Wi-Fi, and folding pizza boxes for a meagre living. This introduction captures their humour, resilience, and the everyday struggles of life in the lower classes of society. Then enters the wealthy Park family, living in an architecturally magnificent house, fully immune to the struggles the Kims grapple with daily. The clever, almost parasitic, maneuvering of the Kims to integrate into the Park household provides comic relief and heightens the drama. This dynamic contrast between the two families lays the groundwork for an unpredictable series of events that exposes the stark class divide; something we should probably pay more attention to. The characters in this movie are a masterclass in depth and complexity. Every character, regardless of screen time, is thoughtfully crafted and they all symbolize different aspects of society. Ki-woo, played by the exceptional Choi Woo-shik, personifies the ambitious youth trapped in societal constraints, while the mother, Chung-sook, portrayed by the outstanding Jang Hye-jin, embodies resilience. However, it is Song Kang-ho, who steals the show as Ki-taek, the father figure whose tough exterior masks a man grappling with his reality.

The Park family's portrayal is equally nuanced. Yeon-kyo, played by Jo Yeo-jeong, is not a mere caricature of the clueless wealthy housewife, but a woman navigating her privileged world with her insecurities. The enigmatic housekeeper Moon-gwang, portrayed by Lee Jung-eun, delivers a haunting performance, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative. Parasite takes a sharp turn midway, delivering a gut-punch that shakes you to your core. The movie's climax, set against a picturesque backdrop, descends into an unforgettable sequence of events. A beautifully orchestrated chaos that keeps you guessing, questioning the unfolding reality. The build-up to this climax, with the film's remarkable use of visual metaphors and sound, completely engulfs you in its atmospheric storytelling and the intricate emotional landscapes of its characters.

One of the things that made this movie so captivating for me was, even though the storyline is quite ominous, gloomy, and somewhat dark, I was completely drawn in from the beginning to the end. No other movie has ever given me such a rush of adrenaline. I believe that Bong Joon-ho achieved this by beautifully executing his filmmaking technique. As Bong wrote the script, he made mock-ups of the houses. After paying close attention, I noticed that there were front-facing windows in each house that mirrored the windows in the neighboring house. The poor family's window is small, and they can see a drunken man urinating. An expansive window was built for the rich family which faces a lovely garden. The poor family also lives underground while the rich family lives on a high hill. Bong used High and Low shots to engage the Kim family. We look up at the son as the tutor, and the perspective flips. It was Kyung-pyo's lighting, as well as Bong's framing and shooting style, that helped convey the tone of the film very effectively for me. A lack of sunshine intensified the contrast between the rich and poor which Kyung pyo played with as a way to draw attention to the differences between the rich and the poor. Most of the interior of the rich family's mansion is bathed in warm, natural light throughout the day. Only a small window lets sunlight into the poor family's basement.

One other thing that truly stayed with me long after Parasite ended was how it presented social disparity in an ingenious and haunting style. The film is brilliant in the way it holds up a mirror to society, forcing us to confront uncomfortable realities that we often ignore. Even though I believe movies that deal with such issues of classism and social injustice often don't convey a larger message for a better world, Parasite still stands out for its frank and accurate portrayal of the human condition.

Like an intricate piece of art, Parasite demands reflection and introspection. Its genius lies in its moral ambivalence, refraining from spoon-feeding answers, thereby compelling its viewers to question, analyze, and understand the complex layers of societal structures. Much like life, there isn't an absolute right or wrong, good or evil in Parasite; it’s a compelling reflection of the shades of grey we live in. Director Bong Joon-ho masterfully raises difficult questions about class division, survival, and the human condition but leaves the interpretations to the viewer.

Only and only because of my love for feel-good movies, I give this movie a score of 9.5/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

Forrest Gump Review

Forrest Gump takes me way back in time. Lots of memories kept flushing back into my mind as I was rewatching the movie; meanwhile I try to stay as unbiased as possible. "Forrest Gump", a film immortalized in cinematic history, holds a special place in my heart. It's a tapestry of emotions from director Robert Zemeckis, woven with threads of humor, sadness, and the sweet simplicity of its central character, Forrest Gump. Throughout the film, Forrest's story is interspersed with historical events as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and perseverance.

The movie resonated with me on multiple levels. The character of Forrest Gump, despite his intellectual limitations, is a beacon of kindness, love, and unwavering loyalty. His love for Jenny, his childhood friend, is a testament to his steadfastness. I like how, despite being such a simple character, he ends up being lovable and relatable because of his personality traits and Tom Hanks' excellent acting. There are many reasons to love Forrest. Jenny's tumultuous life doesn't matter to Forrest, because he loves her unconditionally. A second reason is that the film's depiction of historical events from Forrest's perspective offers a unique perspective on American history. From the Vitnam War to the Watergate scandal, Forrest's involvement in these events adds an additional layer of depth to the story and of course his character. Its exploration of destiny and perseverance, encapsulated in the iconic line "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get," hooked me and took me back to the time when I had no idea what to expect from life when I was leaving my family and moving to a foreign country. As played by Gary Sinise, Lieutenant Dan Taylor is also a fascinating character, since it's a compelling exploration of a man grappling with the aftermath of war and his subsequent transformation.

The film techniques employed by Zemeckis significantly enhanced my viewing experience. The seamless integration of Forrest into vintage footage, complemented with the use of so many simple and not overdone visual effects, created a believable narrative that Forrest was indeed a part of these historical events. The film's soundtrack, featuring iconic songs from the respective eras, also helped immerse me into the story. Especially the recurring feather motif, symbolizing destiny and chance, added a layer of visual symbolism to the story and truly enhanced the narrative.

One thing to remember is that despite its unbelievably high IMDB rating, the movie is not without its flaws. The character of Jenny while integral to the narrative often felt like a tool used to advance the plot; Jenny's character arc served mostly as a catalyst and push for Forrest's growth. Her character, marred by trauma and self-destructive tendencies, deserved more nuanced exploration. Additionally, the film's portrayal of certain historical events, while engaging, often oversimplified complex issues, offering a somewhat sanitized version of history.

I would rate "Forrest Gump" a solid 8.5 out of 10. Aside from its weaknesses, the film's strengths, particularly the performances by Tom Hanks and Gary Sinise, the original and simplicity in the film techniques used, and the engaging narrative, make it a memorable cinematic experience and is enough to give you goosebumps when it ends. It's a story about hope and resilience in the face of adversity, just like the protaganist Forrest. One significant take from the movie would be: “Life, much like a box of chocolates, is full of surprises, and it is our response to these surprises that defines us.”

And that’s why it deserves 8.5/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

Shake Hands with the Devil Review

The film "Shake Hands with the Devil" is a powerful narrative, despite its flaws, in the realm of cinematic storytelling. Through the lens of Roméo Dallaire, played by Roy Dupuis, the film portrays the Rwandan genocide through Roger Spottiswoode's lens. However, upon closer inspection, the film's narrative approach and its use of various film techniques reveal a certain disconnect from the Rwandans themselves, who are the actual victims of the genocide.

From the very beginning of the movie, Roger Spottiswoode's use of flash-forward sequences caught my attention. It opens with a flash-forward sequence in which Dallaire is asked: "Do you want to continue living?". In doing so, the film immediately establishes the gravity of Dallaire's situation and the emotional toll it is taking on him. It is a powerful question, emphasizing the existential crisis that Dallaire is experiencing after witnessing atrocities, making the audience somewhat more aware of the seriousness of the crisis. However, the effectiveness of this technique is somewhat undermined by the film's focus on Dallaire to the exclusion of the Rwandan victims. While it highlights Dallaire's internal struggle, it also distances the audience from the actual victims of the genocide.

The film's top-down viewpoint is another noteworthy technique that made me more engaged in the movie. This perspective places the audience in the position of an observer, viewing the events from a distance. This approach effectively conveys the bureaucratic and political complexities of the situation, as seen through the eyes of Dallaire and the UN. However, this technique also contributes to the film's main flaw: the distancing of the audience from the Rwandan victims. As if we're looking at genocide through a telescope, we can see it, but not feel it. All the focus on the UN's failures and the political bungling during the genocide, the film minimizes its true horrors.

Furthermore, the film uses a brown-bleached colour scheme to match Dallaire's beige camouflage. However, the film's detached viewpoint is also reinforced by the choice of colour palette, which highlights the military and bureaucratic aspects of the narrative. The film has a lot to offer, and It's got a powerful message, but its focus on Dallaire and the UN dilutes that message.

All together, "Shake Hands with the Devil" is a film that utilizes various film techniques to convey a powerful narrative about the Rwandan genocide. Nevertheless, I believe the film's top-down viewpoint and focus on Dallaire and the UN undermines the effectiveness of these techniques. As a result, the audience is somewhat distanced from those who suffered the genocide, which makes the movie lose some effectiveness in conveying its real message. Despite these flaws, I still believe the film remains a potent critique of the failures of the international community in the face of such atrocities and is an important movie about the Rwandan genocide. The message, which continues to apply in today's global political landscape, is one of the devastating consequences of inaction and political bungling.

"Shake Hands with the Devil" is a film that's worth watching, but it's also a film that could have been so much more. It's a film that's got a lot to say, but it doesn't always know how to say it. It's a film that's got a lot of heart, but it doesn't always know how to show it. With that being said, I give Shake Hands with the Devil a 6.5/10

[kyle-reviews]

Godzilla (1954) Review

You know that classic monster flick with a giant dinosaur-like creature stomping around Tokyo? Yup, that's Godzilla (1954), and boy, does it still hold up after all these years. Directed by Ishirō Honda, this film is the granddaddy of all kaiju movies and is still a cinematic treat that keeps you glued to your seat.

For people who haven't seen it, they might be like, "Oh, that's just an old monster movie," but trust me, it's so much more. Godzilla is not only a thrilling ride filled with action and suspense, but it's also a metaphor for the devastation brought about by nuclear weapons, reflecting the collective anxiety of post-World War II Japan.

Right from the get-go, you can tell that Honda's direction is on point. He uses innovative special effects for the time, like suitmation – a guy in a suit stomping around miniature sets – which was pretty rad back then. And to this day, it has a certain charm to it that CGI just can't replicate.

The haunting score by Akira Ifukube sends chills down your spine, perfectly capturing the impending doom brought on by Godzilla. The sound design adds to the tension as well, with Godzilla's iconic roar being downright terrifying even today.

Honda's approach to storytelling is unique too, as he doesn't just focus on the monster; he delves into the human drama. The characters are fleshed out and have their own arcs. Take Dr. Serizawa (Akihiko Hirata) for instance. He's a brilliant scientist who's torn between using his Oxygen Destroyer to kill Godzilla and keeping it a secret to prevent it from becoming another weapon of mass destruction.

The cinematography by Masao Tamai is nothing short of amazing. The way he captures the destruction and chaos caused by Godzilla is breathtaking. The use of light and shadow adds an eerie atmosphere that keeps you on edge.

And let's not forget the groundbreaking work by Eiji Tsuburaya, the special effects mastermind. His miniature sets are so detailed and intricate that it's hard to believe they're not real. The destruction sequences are both thrilling and heart-wrenching, effectively conveying the film's underlying themes.

So yeah, Godzilla (1954) is not just another monster movie. It's a fantastic piece of cinema that transcends the genre and still holds up to this day. It's got everything – action, suspense, drama, and a thought-provoking message. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favour and check it out. You won't be disappointed. And for those who've seen it before, it's always worth another watch. Trust me, it just gets better every time.

In spite of it not being everyone's cup of tea, I enjoyed this movie until the end and give it a 7/10 for its old school feel :)

[kyle-reviews]

Hotel Rwanda

        You know that movie about the hotel in Rwanda during the genocide? Yeah, that's the one. Hotel Rwanda is an absolute gem of a film that left me speechless after my first viewing, and it still hits me hard every time I watch it. Some people might think it's just another sad story from Africa, but they're missing out on a powerful, heart-wrenching experience.

        Hotel Rwanda is set during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, when the Hutu-led government ordered the mass slaughter of Tutsis. Don Cheadle stars as Paul Rusesabagina, the manager of the Hotel des Mille Collines in Kigali, who saves more than a thousand lives by providing shelter to Tutsis and moderate Hutus in his hotel. The movie is a masterclass in storytelling and tension-building, thanks to director Terry George.

        George uses various film techniques to create a sense of realism and urgency. He chooses to shoot the movie mostly handheld, giving it a documentary-like feel that makes the events seem more immediate and personal. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones, reflecting the grim reality of the situation, while the occasional bright spots of color serve as a reminder of the humanity that still exists amid the chaos.

        The movie's pacing is also carefully crafted to keep you on the edge of your seat. As the situation deteriorates, we see Paul struggling to maintain control and protect those he's responsible for. The tension keeps building, with moments of hope and despair coming in quick succession, leaving you emotionally drained by the end.

        Hotel Rwanda's success is due in large part to the incredible performances from its cast. Don Cheadle delivers a tour de force as Paul, showing the full range of his character's emotions, from fear and desperation to determination and strength. Sophie Okonedo, as Paul's wife Tatiana, also gives a heartrending performance, while the supporting cast brings depth and nuance to their roles.

        One of the most impressive aspects of Hotel Rwanda is how it balances the brutality of the genocide with the human stories at its core. The film doesn't shy away from showing the horrors of the event, but it also focuses on the resilience and courage of those who fought to survive and save others. This delicate balance is a testament to Terry George's skill as a director.

        In conclusion, Hotel Rwanda is a must-watch film for anyone interested in understanding the Rwandan genocide and the power of human compassion. It's a harrowing, emotional journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll. And even if you're not into heavy historical dramas, the captivating performances and gripping storytelling make it worth your time. Trust me, this is one movie you won't soon forget.

It earns an 8/10 on the scale of genocide themed movies :)

[kyle-reviews]

Lord of War Review

You know that movie about a gunrunner starring Nicolas Cage? Yeah, that's "Lord of War" and let me tell ya, it's so much more than just another action flick. It's the kind of film that grabs you from the start and doesn't let go, leaving you thinking about it long after the credits roll. For those who haven't seen it, this movie gives a thrilling look into the dark, twisted world of arms dealing while also shedding light on the consequences of war.

The movie kicks off with an incredible sequence that tracks the journey of a single bullet, from production to its ultimate, deadly destination. This opening sets the tone for what's to come, as we follow the life of Yuri Orlov (Cage) from a small-time arms dealer to a major player in the global weapons trade. The movie's plot is driven by the choices Yuri makes and the consequences that inevitably follow.

Director Andrew Niccol does an amazing job creating a dark and gritty atmosphere, using various film techniques to immerse viewers in the story. The use of handheld camera work, for example, gives a raw, documentary-style feel to the film, making it feel more authentic and grounded. Moreover, the use of voiceover narration by Cage adds depth to the character of Yuri, allowing us to understand his motivations and thought processes throughout the story.

Nicolas Cage delivers a captivating performance as Yuri, a character who is both charming and despicable at the same time. The supporting cast, including Jared Leto as Yuri's brother, Vitaly, and Ethan Hawke as the relentless Interpol agent, Jack Valentine, give solid performances that only add to the film's overall impact.

One of the standout aspects of "Lord of War" is its striking visuals. From the gritty streets of war-torn countries to the lavish mansions of arms dealers, the film's cinematography captures the stark contrasts in Yuri's world. The use of color and lighting throughout the movie also helps to set the mood, with darker, more muted tones during intense, dramatic moments and brighter, more vibrant colors during lighter scenes.

In addition to its technical achievements, "Lord of War" also offers a thought-provoking exploration of the moral ambiguity surrounding the arms trade. The film doesn't shy away from showing the devastating consequences of war and the human cost of the weapons Yuri sells. This, combined with the compelling performances and gripping story, makes "Lord of War" a movie that truly sticks with you.

So, if you're looking for a movie that's got it all - action, drama, and a powerful message - give "Lord of War" a watch. It's the kind of film that'll keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you think, and that's a pretty rare combo these days. Plus, if you're into cool film techniques and top-notch acting, this one's definitely worth checking out. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Lord of war gets a generous 8/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

The Shawshank Redemption

How do you talk about a movie that's been praised as much as Frank Darabont's The Shawshank Redemption? Well, there's always more to say, especially for a film that leaves you in awe every time you watch it. For those who haven't seen it, they might think of it as "that prison movie with Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman." Trust me, you're missing out if that's all you know. This isn't just another prison flick; it's a deeply emotional and thought-provoking masterpiece that explores the human spirit's resilience. The movie starts with the wrongful conviction of banker Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) for the murder of his wife and her lover. He's sent to Shawshank State Penitentiary, where he meets Red (Morgan Freeman), a long-time inmate who "knows how to get things." Together, they form a strong friendship that anchors the film. The choices they make and the relationships they forge create a rich tapestry of character development, making us care about their fate deeply. Darabont's direction and screenplay, adapted from Stephen King's novella, are top-notch. The pacing is excellent, allowing us to experience both the passage of time and the character's growth. The cinematography by Roger Deakins is absolutely breathtaking, with its moody, dark tones and excellent use of shadows, creating a stark contrast between the bleakness of prison life and the hope that lies within the characters. The acting in this movie is truly exceptional. Tim Robbins delivers a powerful performance as Andy, a man who never gives up hope despite his dire circumstances. Morgan Freeman's portrayal of Red is nothing short of iconic, with his smooth, soothing voice narrating the story and providing insight into life at Shawshank. The supporting cast, including Bob Gunton as the tyrannical Warden Norton and Clancy Brown as the brutal Captain Hadley, bring depth and nuance to their roles. The film is filled with memorable moments that showcase a range of filmmaking techniques. The iconic scene where Andy plays Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" over the prison's PA system is an excellent example of the power of music in cinema. It's a brief moment of beauty and freedom in an otherwise oppressive environment, and the choice to use this particular piece of music is a testament to Darabont's understanding of storytelling. Another standout scene is when Andy reveals his escape plan to Red. The sequence is cleverly constructed, with Darabont using editing, sound design, and visual storytelling to reveal the details of Andy's ingenious scheme. This moment adds a layer of excitement and tension, making the audience root for Andy even more. What makes The Shawshank Redemption stand out is its ability to blend drama, emotion, and hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. It's a beautiful exploration of friendship, redemption, and the power of the human spirit. The film's conclusion is a masterful piece of storytelling that leaves the viewer with a sense of satisfaction and the belief that good can triumph even in the darkest of times. Whether you love or hate prison movies, The Shawshank Redemption is a must-watch. It transcends its genre and offers something for everyone – a powerful story, outstanding performances, and expert filmmaking. This movie has rightfully earned its place in the annals of cinema history, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a film that will touch their heart and leave them feeling inspired.

A feel-good masterpiece, 9/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

The Dark Knight Review

Alright, let's talk about Batman: The Dark Knight. You know, that epic movie with Heath Ledger playing the Joker? Christopher Nolan really knocked it out of the park with this one. Not only is it a thrilling comic book adaptation, but it also dives deep into the characters, making us think about what it means to be a hero and the choices we make.

The movie kicks off with a wild bank heist led by the Joker, and let me tell you, it's just the beginning of an intense rollercoaster ride. Batman, played by Christian Bale, is in for a wild ride trying to save Gotham City from the Joker's chaos. But man, things get messy, and Batman starts questioning if he's really making things better or worse.

Nolan's direction is seriously on point in this movie. He manages to create a complex story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, while also making you think about the darker side of humanity. And the cinematography? Wally Pfister does an awesome job of making Gotham look both gritty and larger than life. The way he captures the action and the city's atmosphere really pulls you into the story.

Speaking of action, let's talk about that incredible cast. Heath Ledger's Joker is straight-up unforgettable - he's scary, unpredictable, and you just can't take your eyes off him. Christian Bale gives us a Batman who's really struggling with his own code of ethics, and Aaron Eckhart's Harvey Dent is a perfect example of how good intentions can lead to a tragic downfall.

One of the coolest things about The Dark Knight is how it uses film techniques to explore the characters' morality. Harvey Dent's two-faced coin is a perfect example of this - it shows the thin line between good and evil and how our choices can change everything. And the way the Joker tells different stories about his past keeps you guessing about his true motives, making him even more terrifying.

The film's exploration of morality and the consequences of one's actions is also enhanced by its use of symbolism and foreshadowing. Harvey Dent's double-sided coin is a powerful visual metaphor for the duality of human nature and the thin line that separates good from evil. The Joker's twisted anecdotes about his past, which may or may not be true, add layers of ambiguity to his character, making him even more unpredictable and frightening.

Nolan doesn't go overboard with the CGI either, and that's what makes the action scenes feel so real. Remember that insane truck flip scene? They actually did that with minimal computer-generated effects, and it's just mind-blowing. Plus, if you were lucky enough to see it in IMAX, you know how epic those huge sweeping shots of Gotham look.

Yes, Batman: The Dark Knight is a masterpiece. It's not just another comic book movie - it's a gripping, thought-provoking film that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The direction, cinematography, and performances are all top-notch, and it's really set the bar for comic book adaptations. It's one of those movies that'll stick with you for a long time, and watching it will always be worth it and enjoyable, even if it's for the thousandth time.

I can’t give it anything but a 10/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

Children of Men Review

For the first time ever, I was left truly speechless after finishing a movie. The dystopian science fiction film Children of Men is directed by Alfonso Cuaron, based on the novel of the same name by P.D. James. There has just been a death of the youngest person on earth which takes place in a future world where mankind has become infertile. Taking place in this chaotic and bleak world the film follows Theo Faron (played by Clive Owen) as he helps Kee (played by Clare-Hope Ashitey) to safety. Using effective film techniques the film creates an emotional story about human resilience, hope, and despair through the investigation and exploration of themes like hope, despair, and hope.

I found long continuous takes to be one of the most effective film techniques in Children of Men. There's a group of people watching TV in a cafe at the beginning of the film. News reports show David being brutally killed by an obsessive fan, who was one of the youngest humans on earth. The news is devastating because of the infertility epidemic. After that, the camera goes back to Theo. To show he's away from the cafe it turns around him 180 degrees. He's about to read the paper and enjoy his coffee. Theo moves away from the carnage as the cafe explodes and causing the camera to become shaky in its handheld style. Even though it's just a small sequence, this explosion is awesome and very well done. In terms of story, there's also a theme of hope in an impossible world, a cynical protagonist and an unpredictable ending. Cuaron also used a lot of similar cinematography and camera work. I actually felt like I was there with the long takes. Also, I liked how it had long takes instead of a lot of cuts happening at once like other action movies. The most notable example of this long take shot technique is the film's climactic battle scene which is shot in a single and seamless take that lasts for quite long. I also found Cuaron's technique being used effectively at the end of the uprising scene when Theo, Julian and the baby are making their way down the stairs towards the end of the story. As compared to the rest of the uprising scene, this scene uses more editing, but it's only used when it's absolutely necessary to move the story forward, understand the characters better and figure out what motivates them. We cut back to the baby being carried down the stairs after the soldiers see Theo and Julian and notice the baby. By cutting between long shots and close-ups constantly, I was able to create a feeling of emotional connection between the onlookers and the baby; this makes them more connected.

Sound design also quite enhances the emotional impact of the story. Silence played a key role in the film with several scenes featuring long stretches of silence that created tension and unease. One scene has Theo walking through a war-torn refugee camp, and the absence of sound creates a sense of desolation. Likewise, the film used diegetic sound which is the sound that the characters hear to help convey a sense of realism. In scenes of violence and conflict, gunfire and explosions are used to great effect, which intensifies the emotional impact of the scene.

Lastly, the film uses visual symbolism to add depth and meaning to the story. It's filled with recurring visual motifs, like red symbolizing blood, violence, and passion. In the same way, the film's religious imagery, like Kee and her baby's sanctuary in a barn underscores the film's themes of redemption and hope.

2027 isn't too far away, and even though we're not quite at the same point of societal desolation as in "Children of Men," I still find the movie to be relevant and harrowing. I believe this dystopian film will remain significant for years to come because of Cuaron and Lubezki's stylistic signature. Children of Men is going to stick with me forever.

I give it a 9.5/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

Train to Busan Review

There's no doubt that Train to Busan is a great zombie movie, but I can't say it's the best zombie movie ever made, at least for me. It's a fight for survival as passengers ride deadly zombie-filled trains in the hope of finding a safe place to go. Even though it has a creepy and unsettling tone, it's definitely not as scary as it could be. This is probably because the director and playwright didn't intend to scare people, but to send a deeper message on the themes of family, love, betrayal, and the human instinct to do whatever it takes to flee from danger, all of which I loved. While Train to Busan's unique setting, trains, might be interesting to some, watching all those people squeezed into such a small area left me feeling tight and claustrophobic. What I liked most about it were the characters. You can't help but love Sang-Hwa played by Ma Dong-seok. There's just something so charming and endearing about him, and his love for his pregnant wife is so endearing. The shot compositions and cinematography were also sensational, but again, I don't think it was enough to blow me (or anyone) away.

One effective technique used in the movie is the use of non-diegetic sound when the woman first turns into a zombie. The eerie music in the background, which is not originating from the on-screen action, heightens the suspense and creates a sense of unease in the audience. The grim lighting and shaky handheld camera contribute to the movie's overall tense atmosphere. The use of close-up shots and the slow-motion scenes in the train further build on this tension, with the shadow and dark in the train creating a sense of claustrophobia, a feeling that the passengers on the train experience.

Furthermore, the movie's themes of family, betrayal, and egocentrism are communicated through the characters' actions and dialogue. For example, there is a romantic music when a character is infected, which highlights the love shared between characters. There is a subtle foreshadowing in the movie when Soo-an says, "you only care about yourself". This is an example of how the film uses dialogue to convey the theme of self-centrism, which contributes to the movie's overall commentary on human nature in times of crisis. The movie's shot composition and transition, along with the super loud music and shaky camera, are other effective film techniques that make Train to Busan an intense and thrilling movie. The final scene where the main character jumps on the train rail is both foreshadowed by previous Soo-an’s dialogue, which is meanwhile unexpected and provides a poignant and emotional conclusion to the movie.

Other zombie movies I've seen include World War Z, Zombieland, and Shaun of the Dead, which I enjoyed more than Train to Busan. I have to admit that World War Z takes the cake for me. World War Z had a fast-paced story that brought all sorts of action together, with so many things going on at the same time, which left no room for boredom. The editing in both movies was noteworthy, but the story of Train to Busan was not as complex as World War Z. I might be a little biased but Brad Pitt was fantastic as the lead in World War Z, and the supporting cast was just as good. I also liked that World War Z ended kind of open-ended. It reminded me of Christopher Nolan movies, where the audience is left to interpret what happens next. 

Having said all that, Train to Busan is definitely worth watching for fans of the zombie genre. While it wasn't my all-time favorite, it still had a lot of great elements, including complex characters, stunning cinematography, and an intense setting. However, in terms of sheer excitement and complexity, World War Z is the superior film in my opinion. I give it a strong 7.5/10 :)

[kyle-reviews]

Contagion Review

The movie Contagion struck me hard from the very beginning. Up to date, I haven’t watched anything this close to what I've experienced in the past. Unlike most films, Contagion has a lot more meaning than just being a movie. It broadened my horizons about the ongoing pandemics and how the governments manage to control it, what is going on behind the scenes, and what things we are yet unaware of. Aside from the pandemics-related issues, the movie also teaches us lessons about the importance of family and valuing our time together. The movie’s narrative and pace was also interesting, starting from Hong Kong, moving to America, and flash backing to a few third-world countries. It's like a pandemic-focused world tour without ever having to leave the couch!

With the movie having one of my favourite actors Matt Damon, my opinion might be a bit biased, however his performance was flawless, and he seemed fully immersed in Mitch Emhoff's role. In the scene when Mitch learns that his wife has passed away, he uses a defensive mechanism to deny what's going on that is quite captivating, as shown by his facial reactions and gestures. Throughout the story, there was always a continuous beat of music that was extremely absorbing and increased my heart rate whenever someone was about to spread the virus. When it came to diegetic sounds, I often heard a subtle siren echoing in the background, which made the movie seem more realistic to me. For instance, during the scene when everybody was rushing to their homes, it was the siren that created a sense of urgency and panic.

I felt that the movie gave off a melancholy atmosphere and mood, with dim lights and shadows. There is a strong apocalyptic feeling evoked by the movie's lighting, which I felt similar to what I felt during the most recent pandemic I was affected by, the covid. People were breaking into grocery stores, raving, roaring, and stomping as if they were in the midst of an apocalyptic event. Everything was perfectly put together to make us feel like we are a part of that pandemic, while provoking a sense of sympathy for the people who were in that situation and were desperate to get the vaccine. At the end of the movie, I think the climax of the film occurs when they show how the virus had been deliberately planned and created before it was released. As Mr. Cupit says, health organizations make a lot of money selling vaccines, so doing this unethical job and risking a human's life is probably in their best interest.

Contagion is a masterpiece that's both terrifying and enlightening. There is no way to overstate how important it is, and it's a testament to how cinema can educate and inform. I've become more aware of the risks our society faces and the need for collective action to prevent them (especially in the case of pandemics). Among other things, Contagion taught me that prevention is key, and that the most effective way to respond to a pandemic is through early detection, containment, and mitigation measures. Anyone looking for a gripping and insightful look into one of the biggest threats to humanity should watch this film. That's a 8.5/10 for me :)

[kyle-reviews]

hey... umm... this is my first time using Tumblr and I have no idea how it works. This is just to see how things show up on my profile :I