"Miles Ahead" reaches high with its subject matter and genre subversion. However, the catharsis never comes. The sense that Davis is this revolutionary genius is never truly felt; the audience is constantly reminded of his greatness by other characters onscreen, but the sense of his artistic importance is glimpsed over in a few performances. People that are familiar with the artist will undoubtedly connect with the narrative, but those unfamiliar will come away wondering what the hype was all about.
Watching "Son of Saul" is a grueling experience on many levels. Through the subject matter (the Sonderkommando forced to aid in the extermination of their own people), the style of the film and its painful plot, the film never shies away from aims to portray the holocaust as an act of animalistic brutality and evil. Unlike other films on the subject, there is no hope at the end of the line and any glimmer of it ultimately proves false.
Immigration is one of the most sought after topics currently being debated in the political landscapes and is also being seen throughout the world. It is also the subject of the latest film by John Crowley, "Brooklyn" which is premiering at the New York Film Festival and scoring rave reviews.
All of the pieces of "Bridge of Spies" amount to a disjointed film that seems rather intent on its message at the cost of palpable suspense or drama. Some might be attracted to the feel-good vibes and optimism of the narrative, yet there is a lot left to desire about Spielberg and company's decision to gloss over the details in the search for explicit ideology.
Some might claim that "Carol's" poignancy and power comes from its social context and jubilation of recent events. Yet does not all art rely on its social context for its power on some level? However "Carol" is strengthened by its attachment to another time. A time when the dream of that equality was nowhere to be found and survived instead on the strength of the people willing to commit to it. That is the beauty of "Carol." Love always wins.
All in all, "The Walk" is entertaining though hardly revelatory. The shift in tone could be disconcerting for some viewers though those willing to take the film as a modern day fairy tale will find a lot of enjoyment to take away.
The festival season is one of the most anticipated times of the year as the awards contenders begin to be unveiled and the studios begin their big marketing campaigns. This year Toronto, Venice and some of the New York Film Festival's lineups have already been announced with many of the usual suspects included.
Mike Leigh has taken a huge risk with "Mr. Turner," but true to form, the veteran director has yet another hit. Timothy Spall could add an Oscar for Best Actor his collection that already includes the Cannes away for the same distinction after an unforgettable performance. This is a film that offers a wondrous perspective on one of the great artistic genius of all time.
"Gone Girl" opens and closes an identical image - Amy's hidden face which turns around to look the camera. The first time the viewer experiences the image, there is attraction which is backed by the rather comic voiceover from Affleck's Nick. But when the image comes at the end, the viewer cannot help but feel disturbed. This is the power of perception in this film. It is the power of David Fincher's genius.
Viggo Mortensen is one of the biggest stars in the movie business, but you might have a hard time believing it based on the projects he chooses. His most recent project "Jauja", directed by Argentinean director Lisandro Alonso, might be the most unique of all the films the "Lord of the Rings" star has been in to date.
All in all, "The "Wonders" offers potent performances and the imagery that is absolutely arresting. Shown at the 2014 New York Film Festival, this is a film that will keep audiences enraptured if they take it on its own terms.
The 2014 New York Film Festival is fast approaching and will feature a number of major movies. Some of the films that will be on display at the festival have been making waves at major festivals. Latin Post takes a look at the films to look out for at the grand showcase.
The New York Film Festival has announced its main slate lineup and this year a number of Oscar hopefuls will be making a stop at the prestigious event, including 'Foxcatcher,' 'Birdman,' 'Gone Girl' and more.
