Change Your Image
lighthousekeeeper
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Bad Axe (2022)
I can't believe this movie is not nominated for Oscar!
A brilliant piece of family portrait! So close to heart and intimate. Yet it makes you reflect on the larger society we live in.
The director points the camera to his own family which is one of the most loving family you will ever see and at the same time they go through small crises themselves as well. In a small town in the Midwest, running a restaurant, they are both the traditional family and unique in their own way.
I can not recommend this beautiful movie enough to everyone. I just can not believe this movie did not get an Oscar nomination because it absolutely deserves it! I can't wait to see what the brilliant team behind this film is going to do next.
Brothers from Malta (2022)
The feel good movie of the year!
If you're looking for a feel-good movie with plenty of laughs, look no further than "Brothers from Malta". This film is a delightful journey that will leave you feeling happy and fulfilled. Julian and James have truly captured the essence of family ties in this entertaining and well-written movie.
As a Maltese person, I was thrilled to see characters on the big screen that I could relate to. The story is clever, and I could easily imagine two Maltese gents embarking on a real-life adventure like the one depicted in the film. Even the cute dog, Roxy, stole the show with her irresistible charm.
The film is a testament to the importance of family, and how those bonds can never be broken, no matter what life throws our way. The message is heartfelt and resonates with viewers from all backgrounds.
The theatre was packed on opening night, and it's no surprise why. "Brothers from Malta" is a movie that brings people together and creates a positive atmosphere. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who wants to enjoy a good laugh and experience the warmth of Maltese culture. Thank you, Julian and James, for bringing your family's story to life and sharing it with the world. This film is a must-see, and I can't wait to watch it again and share it with my friends.
Chan Is Missing (1982)
A landmark film!
"Chan is Missing," directed by Wayne Wang, is a masterful example of independent filmmaking at its best. Shot on a shoestring budget and featuring a cast of mostly unknown actors, the film explores the Chinese-American immigrant experience in San Francisco through the eyes of two taxi drivers, Jo and Steve, as they search for a friend named Chan who has disappeared with their money.
The film is not only a remarkable piece of social commentary, but also a character study that delves deeply into the psyche of Chinese immigrants in America. Wang's nuanced direction and the superb performances of the lead actors imbue the film with a profound sense of authenticity and empathy.
"Chan is Missing" is a film that seamlessly blends humor and pathos, making the audience both laugh and cry as they follow the two protagonists on their journey. Through Jo and Steve's conversations and interactions with other members of the Chinese community in San Francisco, the film explores themes of identity, culture clash, and the immigrant experience.
What truly makes "Chan is Missing" stand out is the way it subverts expectations of the typical Hollywood detective story. Instead of a traditional thriller with high stakes and a clear resolution, the film is a quiet, introspective look at the human condition. The search for Chan becomes a metaphor for the characters' own search for their place in the world.
In addition to its profound themes and poignant storytelling, the film is a technical marvel. Shot in black and white, the film captures the gritty realism of San Francisco in the early 1980s. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting creates an immersive, documentary-style experience that draws the audience into the characters' world.
Overall, "Chan is Missing" is a remarkable achievement in independent cinema. It is a film that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release, as it provides a deeply insightful and empathetic perspective on the immigrant experience. Through its exceptional direction, superb acting, and poignant themes, "Chan is Missing" is a timeless masterpiece that will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for generations to come.
Eat a Bowl of Tea (1989)
Hilarious movie
"Eat a Bowl of Tea" is a charming romantic drama film directed by Wayne Wang, set in 1940s Chinatown in New York City. The movie tells the story of a young Chinese couple, Ben Loy (Russell Wong) and Mei Oi (Corinne Hong Wu), who are struggling to make their marriage work in the aftermath of World War II. Ben Loy, who is unable to provide for his wife, is forced to move away from her to work in a factory for two years. Upon his return, he is shocked to discover that his father has arranged a marriage for him with a woman from a wealthy family.
The film is an exploration of Chinese-American identity, culture, and the challenges that the Chinese community faced in America in the aftermath of the war. The movie does an excellent job of capturing the cultural norms and traditions of the Chinese community, as well as the prejudice and discrimination they faced in America.
The lead actors deliver a fantastic performance, bringing a genuine warmth and depth to their characters. Russell Wong's portrayal of Ben Loy is especially noteworthy, as he deftly portrays the character's struggle to reconcile his traditional Chinese values with his life in America. Corinne Hong Wu's performance as Mei Oi is equally impressive, as she portrays the character's strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
The film's cinematography and production design perfectly capture the time and place of the story, and the attention to detail is impressive. The period setting, with its iconic architecture and vintage cars, is a treat to watch. The film also features an enchanting score by the renowned composer, David Mansfield, which adds to the film's romantic and nostalgic tone.
"Eat a Bowl of Tea" is a beautiful and heartfelt film that offers a glimpse into the life of the Chinese-American community in New York City in the 1940s. It is a touching and poignant exploration of love, culture, and tradition, and is a must-watch for anyone interested in Asian-American cinema.
Moonlight (2016)
Speechlessly beautiful
Moonlight, directed by Barry Jenkins, is a cinematic masterpiece that tells the coming-of-age story of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. The film is a deeply personal and emotional journey that explores themes of identity, masculinity, and sexuality with incredible sensitivity and nuance.
The film is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different stage of Chiron's life. As a child, he is known as "Little" and is already grappling with his identity and his place in the world. He finds refuge in the mentorship of a local drug dealer named Juan, who becomes a father figure to him. As a teenager, Chiron is bullied and ostracized by his peers, but finds a connection with a classmate named Kevin. Finally, as an adult, Chiron is living in Atlanta and has adopted the persona of "Black," a tough drug dealer who bears little resemblance to the sensitive child and teenager he once was.
The performances in Moonlight are outstanding, with each actor seamlessly embodying their character at different stages of life. Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, and Trevante Rhodes all give powerful and nuanced performances as Chiron, each conveying the character's complex emotional journey with authenticity and depth. Mahershala Ali is also fantastic as Juan, bringing a warmth and humanity to a character that could have easily been portrayed as a one-dimensional villain.
One of the most striking elements of Moonlight is its visual style. The film is beautifully shot, with a soft color palette and dreamlike imagery that perfectly captures the hazy memories of childhood and the intense emotions of adolescence. The score by Nicholas Britell is also superb, blending classical and hip-hop influences to create a haunting and evocative soundtrack.
Moonlight is a stunning work of art that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's a film that tackles important social issues with grace and empathy, while also telling a deeply personal and affecting story. It's a must-see for anyone who appreciates powerful and thought-provoking cinema.
Festen (1998)
Disturbing yet funny
The Celebration (Festen) is a Danish film directed by Thomas Vinterberg that is a masterclass in storytelling and acting. The film follows a family gathering to celebrate the 60th birthday of the patriarch, Helge, at a lavish hotel in the countryside. However, as the evening progresses, secrets are revealed, and long-held grudges surface, ultimately leading to a shocking and emotionally charged climax.
The Celebration is a brilliant exploration of family dysfunction, with all of its complexities and contradictions. The film deals with themes such as abuse, trauma, guilt, and the corrosive effects of denial and repression. The performances of the entire cast are nothing short of extraordinary, particularly Ulrich Thomsen as Christian, Helge's eldest son, who is harboring a deep and painful secret.
The film is shot with a raw and intimate style, using handheld cameras and natural lighting to create a sense of immediacy and authenticity. The pacing is relentless, with each scene building on the tension of the previous one, until the explosive finale.
While The Celebration is an emotionally challenging film, it is also a deeply rewarding one. Vinterberg and his team have crafted a masterpiece that is both a commentary on the state of the modern family and a testament to the power of forgiveness and redemption.
In conclusion, The Celebration is a must-see for anyone who appreciates powerful and thought-provoking cinema. The film is a tour de force of storytelling and acting, and a testament to the power of the human spirit. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled, and a true masterpiece of contemporary cinema.
Good Time (2017)
The most intense film of the year!
Good Time" is a gritty, suspenseful crime thriller that delivers an intense and unforgettable experience. Directed by the Safdie brothers, the film follows the desperate journey of Connie Nikas (Robert Pattinson), a petty criminal who attempts to free his developmentally disabled brother Nick (Benny Safdie) from police custody after a botched robbery.
From the opening scene, the film grabs you by the throat and never lets go. The Safdie brothers use a fast-paced, non-linear storytelling style that keeps you on the edge of your seat, with every twist and turn in Connie's journey increasing the tension and anxiety.
Robert Pattinson gives a career-best performance as Connie, bringing a raw and frenetic energy to the screen. He fully embodies the character's desperation, cunning, and moral ambiguity, making Connie a compelling and complex antihero. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Benny Safdie giving a standout performance as Nick, and Jennifer Jason Leigh delivering a brief but memorable turn as Connie's troubled girlfriend.
The film is also a visual tour de force, with Sean Price Williams' stunning cinematography capturing the gritty beauty of New York City at night. The neon-lit streets, dark alleyways, and dilapidated buildings create a sense of unease and danger that perfectly matches the film's tone.
"Good Time" is not an easy film to watch, as it confronts the harsh realities of poverty, crime, and the failures of the criminal justice system. However, it does so with an unflinching honesty and a sense of empathy for its flawed characters. It's a thrilling ride that will leave you breathless and thinking long after the credits roll. Overall, "Good Time" is a masterful film that showcases the talents of its cast and crew, and cements the Safdie brothers as two of the most exciting voices in independent cinema today.
Junho (2021)
A film of its time, that will resonate long into the future!
David Boo's directorial debut, Junho, is a remarkable film that offers a fresh and thought-provoking take on the Me Too movement. While most films of this genre tend to focus on either the victims or perpetrators, Boo has brilliantly chosen to focus on the bystanders, exploring the guilt and complicity that comes with inaction.
Wonju Jo delivers a stunning performance as Junho, a man struggling to escape the bitter memories of his past and his complicity in a Me Too scandal that destroyed his acting troupe. The film is split between the past and present, leaving the audience to piece together the events that led to Junho's current predicament. The vagueness of the film not only makes it more intriguing but also drives the point home that complicity involves everyone. Boo has created a timely and important film that offers a unique perspective on the Me Too movement, making it stand out from other films in the genre.
Junho's powerful message and Wonju Jo's exceptional performance make it a must-watch for anyone interested in timely and thought-provoking dramas. Boo's debut feature is one of the best films to come out this year and deserves wider recognition beyond the festival circuit.
Tenet (2020)
Masterpiece!
Christopher Nolan's "Tenet" is an intricate, mind-bending action film that challenges the viewer's perception of time and space. The film follows the Protagonist (played by John David Washington), a CIA agent tasked with preventing a catastrophic event that could cause the end of the world as we know it.
The film's complex plot revolves around the concept of inversion, where objects and people can move backwards in time. The Protagonist must navigate this new reality, teaming up with Neil (Robert Pattinson) and using his own skills and resources to unravel a global conspiracy involving a Russian oligarch named Sator (Kenneth Branagh).
What sets "Tenet" apart from other action films is its masterful execution of high-concept sci-fi ideas. Nolan's direction is impeccable, as he weaves together jaw-dropping set pieces and mind-bending action sequences with ease. The film is visually stunning, featuring breathtaking locations and innovative cinematography that makes the most of the film's time-inversion concept.
Washington delivers a compelling performance as the Protagonist, bringing a sense of gravitas and determination to his role. Pattinson is equally impressive, bringing his signature charm and wit to his role as Neil. Branagh is also excellent as the film's villain, portraying Sator as a menacing and complex figure.
While "Tenet" can be confusing at times, Nolan's script is cleverly crafted, with twists and turns that keep the viewer engaged and guessing until the very end. The film is a true spectacle, with a score by Ludwig Göransson that adds to the tension and excitement of the film.
Overall, "Tenet" is a must-see film for fans of sci-fi and action alike. With its stunning visuals, complex plot, and masterful direction, it is a true cinematic experience that will leave viewers thinking long after the credits roll.
Training Day (2001)
A film to study for all filmmakers
"Training Day" is a gripping and intense crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke, the film follows a veteran LAPD detective, Alonzo Harris (Washington), as he takes his new partner, Jake Hoyt (Hawke), on a dangerous and corrupt ride-along through the streets of Los Angeles.
From the very beginning, the film sets a tense and ominous tone as Alonzo introduces Jake to his unconventional methods of policing, which involve breaking the law to enforce it. Washington's performance as the morally ambiguous and manipulative Alonzo is nothing short of outstanding, and he fully embodies the character's charisma, charm, and ruthlessness.
Hawke also delivers a compelling performance as the idealistic and naive Jake, who struggles to reconcile his own sense of right and wrong with Alonzo's questionable tactics. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their interactions are both riveting and unpredictable.
The film's plot is complex and full of twists and turns, as Alonzo's true motives and allegiances become increasingly murky. The cinematography and editing are also top-notch, with a gritty and visceral feel that immerses the viewer in the dangerous and volatile world of the LAPD.
Overall, "Training Day" is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers and intense character studies. It is a raw and uncompromising look at the corrupt underbelly of law enforcement, and a showcase for the tremendous talent of its lead actors and director.
No No Girl (2022)
Beautiful family drama confidently directed
"The No No Girl" is a beautifully directed movie that explores the complexities of family relationships and the impact of buried secrets on family identity and stability. The film is centered around a fourth-gen Nisei Hasegawa family, and the story begins with the discovery of love letters written by the just-deceased grandmother. The family decides to bury a "treasure chest" of family heirlooms to spare them from confiscation or destruction. The protagonist Sue Hasegawa, a millennial woman, launches a search into her family history and uncovers long-buried family secrets that threaten to topple her family's stability and identity.
What makes "The No No Girl" so special is the way it portrays a Japanese American family, which is different from other Asian American families. The Hasegawas are third and fourth-generation Japanese Americans living in Southern California, and their family history is deeply connected to the generational aftereffects of Executive Order 9066, which sent many Japanese Americans to concentration camps during World War II. The film explores how this history affects the family's sense of identity and belonging, and how it impacts their relationships with each other.
The film's director, Paul Daisuke Goodman, weaves together many characters and elements with great skill, balancing heavy themes such as property theft with moments of light-hearted comedy. The performances of the actors are outstanding, and the characters are well-developed and believable. The film also beautifully captures the complexity of family relationships, showing how secrets and buried emotions can have far-reaching consequences.
In conclusion, "The No No Girl" is a must-watch film that beautifully explores the complexities of family relationships and the impact of buried secrets on family identity and stability. The film's portrayal of a Japanese American family is unique and adds an important perspective to the portrayal of Asian American families in popular culture. The film is expertly directed, and the performances are outstanding. I highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking cinema.
Relatos salvajes (2014)
What a ride!
Wild Tales (Relatos Salvajes), the 2014 Argentine black comedy anthology film, is a masterful work of art that will leave you gasping for breath with its wicked sense of humor, biting social commentary, and expertly crafted stories. Directed by Damián Szifron, the film features six standalone stories, each with its unique style and tone, but all sharing a common thread of revenge and the human impulse to let loose in the face of injustice.
From the opening scene, Wild Tales grips you with its cleverly crafted storylines that effortlessly blend satire, absurdity, and drama. The film's first segment, "Pasternak," features an explosive tale of road rage that will have you on the edge of your seat. The second segment, "The Rats," takes a darkly comedic look at class warfare, where a group of wealthy dinner guests must confront their own privilege when their hired help stages a revolt.
The remaining four segments are equally compelling, with each one exploring different themes such as revenge, corruption, and the consequences of one's actions. The film's cinematography and soundtrack are equally impressive, adding to the overall mood and feel of the movie.
Wild Tales is a rare cinematic gem that is both hilarious and thought-provoking. The film tackles weighty issues with humor and wit, making it accessible to a wide audience while still maintaining its artistic integrity. The ensemble cast is exceptional, bringing their A-game to each story and giving life to the complex characters.
The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving rave reviews and multiple awards, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. It's easy to see why - Wild Tales is a must-watch for anyone who loves smart, dark comedies with a sharp edge. It's a film that will stick with you long after the credits roll, leaving you pondering its themes and messages.
In short, Wild Tales is a brilliant work of cinema that showcases the talents of director Damián Szifron and the exceptional cast and crew behind it. It's a film that will make you laugh, cringe, and think, all at the same time. Don't miss out on this unforgettable cinematic experience.
Starring Jerry As Himself (2023)
Powerful piece of cinéma vérité
Starring Jerry as Himself is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that captivates the audience from start to finish. Director Law Chen and co-writer Jerry have created a unique hybrid format that seamlessly blends reality with fiction to tell a compelling and emotional story.
At the heart of the film is Jerry himself, an elderly Chinese immigrant who is unwittingly caught up in a criminal investigation. Through his own determination and the support of his family, he becomes an unlikely undercover agent for the Chinese police, risking everything to clear his name and protect his loved ones. The viewer is taken on a rollercoaster ride as Jerry's investigation takes him on unexpected twists and turns, with tension and emotion building until the powerful climax.
What sets Starring Jerry as Himself apart from other documentaries is its use of the hybrid format. The decision to have Jerry and his family star as themselves adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth that is rare in the genre. The actors who play the police and other characters are seamlessly integrated into the story, making it feel more like a cinematic experience than a traditional documentary.
The film also raises important questions about the nature of truth and memory. What is a true story? Can we trust our own memories? These questions are woven into the narrative in a way that is both thought-provoking and respectful of Jerry's experience.
Overall, Starring Jerry as Himself is a must-watch film that will leave a lasting impression on its audience. It's a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of family, and a shining example of the potential of the documentary genre.
The Accidental Getaway Driver (2023)
One of the best films of the year!
"The Accidental Getaway Driver" is a cinematic masterpiece that captivates the audience from beginning to end. Sing J. Lee's first-time direction is impeccable, winning Sundance's Directing Award for his striking visuals and mood-driven aesthetic. The film's unnerving tone and intensity are punctuated by moments of humor and warmth, making it an emotional rollercoaster ride.
The film tells the story of Long, a lonely and elderly Vietnamese cab driver played by the outstanding Hiep Tran Nghia, who is taken hostage by three escaped convicts, led by Dustin Nguyen's Tây. As the story unfolds, Long and Tây's relationship takes center stage, creating a stirring portrait of an unlikely friendship that forms between them.
Lee's direction and realistic approach to California make the film interesting and engaging, with beautiful camerawork and well-directed long take shots that elevate the film's cinematography to another level. The chemistry between the cast members, particularly Nghia and Nguyen, is palpable, with their dialogue feeling both realistic and interesting to observe.
Despite some predictable writing elements and a few out-of-place dialogue moments from the supporting cast members, "The Accidental Getaway Driver" is still a fantastic film that deserves recognition. It's a stirring portrait of an unlikely friendship that forms between two people from different backgrounds, expressed through lyrical and gently surreal interludes.
Overall, "The Accidental Getaway Driver" is a must-watch for anyone looking for an emotional and engaging film with exceptional performances and stunning visuals. Lee's first-time direction is impressive, and the film's story and characters will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
Waiting for the Light to Change (2022)
A beautiful film through and through
"Waiting for the Light to Change" is an impressive and nuanced debut feature from director Linh Tran. Set in a lake house in Michigan at the end of winter, the film follows five characters who come together in awkward fashion, reuniting and meeting for the first time. The story unfolds slowly and deliberately, as the characters navigate their anxieties, despair, and sadness in their 20s while building a life and career.
Tran's direction is precise and confident, using long takes and master shots to develop her characters and establish their simmering tensions just beneath the surface. The naturalistic dialogue, largely improvised by the talented cast, creates a strong sense of authenticity and immediacy. The cinematography by David Foy is stunning, capturing the cold, desolate beauty of the winter landscape and the isolation of the characters.
What sets "Waiting for the Light to Change" apart is its ability to paint a bigger picture of a generational statement. Each character has their own internal crisis, and the film shows a group of twentysomethings adrift, grappling with the loss of their past while staring down an uncertain future. Tran deftly weaves together intimate character study and broader look at youthful unease with a firm handle on evoking her characters' inner turmoil.
Overall, "Waiting for the Light to Change" is an impressive and unassuming film that rewards those willing to seek it out and attune themselves to its rhythms. It is a heartfelt and intimate exploration of the complexities of growing up and the anxieties that come with it, and a remarkable debut from Linh Tran.
Ocean City Monster Building (2022)
Interesting but doesn't 100% add up
Interesting low budget thriller-drama that takes place in a small town in Upstate NY. A mayor is found dead in a car with a 15 yrs old female. A detective from Albany leads the investigation and encounters the suspicious, sometimes racist, attitude of the local sheriff. She is originally migrated from Haiti and became a cop and she doesn't buy into the attitude of the local authorities that just want to close the case exonerating the mayor post-humanous. She forms a bond with the mayor adopted daughter from Vietnam, and they find common language because of their backgrounds. The plot thickens with several twists and turns and the case is being closed under pressure, without figuring out all the details. When they are revealed in the end, a sad truth of abuse and malignant intentions are exposed. The story takes place in 1984, before the Mondale-Reagan elections, and the filmmaker definitely wants to say something about the American dream in the eyes of immigrants, but it's not clear exactly. The film is very low budget, shot in monochromatic colors, better than black and white, but stands firm enough as a whole.
There is something that I really like about this. It doesn't 100% add up, and I'm not sure what the title has to do with it or at least the first half, but the story really gels as it goes along. Also, the lead performances by the daughter Sally and detective are really good especially when you piece it all together. I was thrown off initially by the hand held camera and the mellow color, but when I read that the Filmmaker was following the Dogme 95 style it kind of made more sense, and I had to give the filmmaker credit for attempting to follow this fairly consistently despite breaking a couple of the rules as many do.