Love Lies Bleeding
"Love Lies Bleeding" is a film set in 1989, revolving around the intricate relationship between a secluded gym manager, associated with a criminal syndicate, and an aspiring bodybuilder. As they become entangled in organized crime, the bodybuilder's ambitions lead to a series of murders, unraveling a complex narrative of love, deceit and betrayal.
It is a thrilling journey crafted for the sapphic queer audience and their communities, yet its allure extends beyond those bounds. With a blend of action, drama, sensuality, suspense, and touches of magical realism, the film defies categorization and invites viewers into a realm of boundless possibilities. Much like the queer experience itself, this movie thrives outside the confines of conventional norms.
For me, "Love Lies Bleeding" stands out amidst a sea of male-centric action films. Its gripping narrative kept me on the edge of my seat, sending shivers down my spine and igniting a sense of exhilaration. With its campy charm, killer synth soundtrack, unexpected steamy scenes, and characters reminiscent of graphic novel heroes, this movie delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience. It's a must-watch for anyone drawn to these elements of storytelling.
Poor Things
"Poor Things," adapted from the novel by Alasdair Gray, centers around Bella Baxter, a peculiar character inhabiting the body of an adult woman in Victorian London. Following her mother's suicide, Bella undergoes a groundbreaking brain transplant, setting her on a journey of profound self-discovery amidst the backdrop of a tumultuous era.
"Poor Things" is an eccentric film with a captivating plot and nuanced symbolism. It blends elements of black comedy and drama, delving into the creation of Bella and her unexpected journey of sexual awakening.
While Willem Dafoe's character is intriguing, there's a longing for more depth in his storyline. It would have added complexity to see Dr. Baxter descending into madness and grappling with his pain, especially in relation to Felicity's character, who feels somewhat extraneous.
Bella's transformation may unsettle some viewers, yet it introduces a thought-provoking twist on the Frankenstein narrative. It prompts reflection on morality and the consequences of reviving a life that chose to end, posing questions about sacrifice and the nature of monstrosity.
The film's visual journey, transitioning from black and white to vibrant tones, mirrors Bella's evolution. The intricate costume design eloquently narrates Bella's story, from simple nightgowns to elaborate Victorian attire, infused with elements of steampunk fantasy and artistic influences from Gaudi and Escher.
For viewers like myself, discovering "Poor Things" blind proved to be a delightful surprise, solidifying its place as one of the standout films of 2023.
Beef
"BEEF," an A24 original series now streaming on Netflix, offers a compelling exploration of contemporary culture's hyper-emotional landscape and the repercussions of unchecked emotions. With Steven Yeun and Ali Wong in leading roles, the series follows two individuals from divergent backgrounds whose chance encounter in a parking lot erupts into a frenzied car chase, leading to increasingly dire consequences as they seek vengeance against each other. Yeun and Wong deliver captivating performances, navigating a spectrum of emotions from seething rage to profound despair. Yeun's character, a control freak, clashes with Wong's, who grapples with existential uncertainty despite her apparent success. Over ten gripping episodes, viewers are taken on a darkly comedic and intense journey as the characters spiral into deeper turmoil.
The series adeptly explores how their feud impacts their personal relationships while also serving as a microcosm of broader societal issues surrounding emotional fragility and a lack of healthy coping mechanisms. The writing deftly navigates these themes, maintaining a balanced pace throughout the series' approximately 30-minute episodes. While occasionally diverging from the central plot, the show's smooth pacing ensures a cohesive viewing experience. The finale offers a poignant conclusion that prompts viewers to reflect on the show's underlying message about emotional maturity and societal dysfunction.
One Day
The "One Day" series on Netflix offers a mesmerizing journey that transcends its cinematic predecessor in every aspect. Having revisited the 2011 movie after watching the series, I can confidently assert that while I enjoyed the film as a child, the series surpasses it in storytelling, character development, and emotional depth.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the series is its ability to evoke raw emotions. Despite not being one to easily shed tears, the poignant storytelling and powerful performances had me so emotionally invested that I found myself having to look away during certain scenes in the last two episodes. The emotional rollercoaster the series takes you on is both heart-wrenching and cathartic.
Moreover, the representation of women of color as protagonists is not only refreshing but also long overdue. Witnessing characters who look like me portrayed in such empowering roles added an extra layer of resonance to the viewing experience. It speaks volumes about the progressiveness of the show and its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
In conclusion, "One Day" stands as a masterpiece that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll. It's a narrative of love, loss, resilience, and redemption that leaves an indelible mark on your heart. My emotional journey with this series is one I'll never forget, and I doubt my heart will ever fully recover from the impact it had on me.
Blue Period
Amidst all the art discussions, I never anticipated the direction this anime would take, nor did I expect to be as deeply moved by it. Despite the irony of its mediocre animation for an art-themed anime, the masterful character odyssey more than compensated for it.
The central characters, high school students aspiring to enter art schools, embarked on a journey of self-discovery through their exploration of art. Each grappled with their own struggles in unraveling their identities, with the recurring theme of identity versus role confusion taking center stage. Their journeys all converged on another prevalent theme that resonated deeply with me: self-doubt. Yaguchi, the main protagonist, grappled incessantly with insecurity, prompting moments of reflection that hit uncomfortably close to home.
Another compelling aspect was the exploration of the disparities between hard work, innate talent, and the expectations associated with each label. This theme was exemplified through the character Yotasuke, who wrestled with the notion that being labeled as talented or naturally skilled didn't necessarily bring the fulfillment expected. The narrative serves as an endearing and encouraging tale for artists navigating their creative journeys while grappling with their inner critics. Additionally, the show offers valuable insights and practices for aspiring artists.
The title "Blue Period," a reference to one of Picasso's renowned paintings, signifies introspection and emotional depth, elements the show masterfully embodies. It's easy to empathize with the characters as they strive to excel in their craft, navigating the trials and tribulations of art school. Moreover, the portrayal of art school stereotypes adds a humorous yet insightful dimension to the narrative, providing glimpses into the struggles of various characters, each representing different facets of the artistic journey. In this diverse ensemble, viewers are likely to find a character whose experiences resonate with their own.
Bodies, Bodies, Bodies
Those dismissing "Bodies Bodies Bodies" as vapid and shallow, criticizing its predictable ending, are overlooking its profound thematic intentions.
The characters serve as absurdist representations not only of contemporary youth but also of humanity as a whole.
This isn't merely another horror film attempting to reinvent the genre. Rather, it's a contemplative exploration of how our culture has distorted its relationship with information, particularly through technology. The film highlights how we consume and react to unreliable information, often impulsively, resulting in widespread destruction, whether to ourselves or others. While the film avoids being overly didactic to prevent coming across as preachy, its message remains clear, conveyed in an engaging and entertaining manner. After all, it's an A24 production—expecting a conventional slasher would be a misjudgment of its intentions. This discrepancy in expectations reflects more on the viewer's preconceptions than on any fault of the film itself.
Baby Reindeer
It's remarkable that the male lead was portrayed by the real person behind the story—a courageous decision given the depth of the narrative and characters.
For me, the series wasn't solely about the horrors of Martha stalking Donny; it delved into deeper themes.
While not everyone may relate intensely, those who've experienced feelings of shame, vulnerability, depression, and more will empathize deeply with the protagonist's journey. His story resonates, offering solace to those who feel similarly.
The narrative cuts to the core, revealing how easily we allow ourselves to be manipulated, often due to niceness or lack of assertiveness. It exposes our fears of disappointing others, leading to self-destruction. The series depicts the lengths people will go to find validation and acceptance, often losing themselves in the process. It's a painful cycle of self-discovery and self-destruction, beautifully portrayed.
Life's challenges, depicted brutally in the series, can break even the most genuine and pure-hearted individuals. Yet, through the turmoil, there's growth and wisdom gained.
While I expected the series to be stressful, it was surprisingly moving and raw. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of embracing our flaws and experiences.
Given
"Given" is one of those anime series that may not immediately grab your attention. There are no flashy presentations or extensive casts of characters typical of many shounen or shoujo anime. Instead, it's just four men and their musical instruments, and yet, that simplicity is exactly what makes it so compelling.
The unassuming nature of "Given" works to its advantage, as it allows for the emotional depth and relatability to shine through in almost every scene, word, and movement. This understated approach leads to an impressive and cathartic climax that resonates deeply with viewers.
The art style follows a similar pattern, with clean lines and colors creating a familiar urban setting and a small but well-drawn cast of characters. While there's nothing extraordinary about their appearance, this simplicity allows for the characters' imperfections, eccentricities, and relationships to take center stage.
The series primarily focuses on the personal relationship between Mafuyu and Uenoyama, while "Given: the movie" shifts its focus to Haruhiko and Akihiko as they navigate the aftermath of Akihiko's relationship with the emotionally unstable violin prodigy, Murata Ugetsu.
Throughout the series, the characters' communication and perception of themselves and the musical world are deeply influenced by past traumas and dramatic incidents, including themes of suicide, loneliness, possessiveness, and unrequited love. Despite the thorny and turbulent path they walk, both the difficulties and moments of euphoria are treated with sensitivity and healthy optimism, allowing viewers to empathize with the characters' emotions and the creator's humane perception of reality.
At the heart of it all is music itself, serving as the catalyst for all the action. From poignant concerts of classical music to exciting performances in dark theaters, the unique musical expressions of the characters serve as a way to interpret their reality and convey their pain and hope.
For lovers of slice-of-life dramas with beautifully constructed characters and soothing art, "Given" is a must-watch. It's a given that you'll be captivated by its charm and depth.
The Handmaids's Tale
"Mankind is failing, with most women rendered sterile due to industrial pollution or perhaps Mother Nature's retaliation against our parasitic presence. Birth rates are plummeting, prompting an ultra-religious cult to seize power under the guise of 'saving mankind.' They orchestrate a fabricated terrorist attack against the US government, impose martial law, and embark on reconstructing American society, drawing inspiration from distorted interpretations of The Old Testament. Fertile women become state property, indoctrinated and exploited as baby makers, subjected to slavery and subjugation."
Margaret Atwood, a Canadian icon revered for her social commentary, environmental activism, feminism, and visionary insights, always maintained that "The Handmaid's Tale" isn't science fiction but rather "speculative fiction," exploring scenarios with a plausible chance of occurring in the near future. Written in the 1980s, its relevance has only deepened, particularly with the rise of neo-conservative Christians in US politics. Atwood's narrative serves as a cautionary tale, challenging societal norms and exposing potential consequences, particularly for women.
The series' feminism is nuanced, avoiding the pitfalls of portraying all men as villains and all women as helpless victims. Atwood acknowledges the complexities of human nature, emphasizing that complicity knows no gender. It's also highly commendable that the cast are just 'normal folk', no super skinnies, models, hunks or pretty boys are in sight. This makes it all the more believable, it could happen to you and me.
Adhering to Maggie's descriptions of the colour coded dress, the production designer's subtle placement of now highly valuable Shaker furniture here and there helps; the muted drab colours, even in the opulent wealthy homes, take us sub consciously back to the times of Salem, witch trials, mass hysteria and life devoid of 'modern vices' like free speech, self determination, free love and modern relationships.
There were moments where I had to pause the show just to catch my breath. It doesn't rely on overtly shocking scenes to make an impact; rather, its strength lies in its haunting, profound, and all-encompassing narrative. It's this ability to hold up a mirror to our reality while weaving a narrative that feels both familiar and unsettling that makes "The Handmaid's Tale" truly extraordinary.
