Change Your Image
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMjI1NTY0MjkyNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNjY1NzYwMTE@._V1_SY100_SX100_.jpg)
paul-allaer
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
The Salt of the Earth (2014)
A most extraordinary documentary on many levels
As "The Salt of the Earth" (2014 release; 110 min.) opens, we look at an extraordinary B&W photo of a massive salt mine in Brazil that director Wim Wenders stumbled on. Wenders notices on the back that the picture was taken by a guy named Sebastião Salgado and Wenders decides right then and there to find out more about this guy...
Couple of comments: this is co-directed by Wim Wenders and Sebastião Salgado's son Juliano, tracing the life and times of photographer Sebastião Salgado whom I readily admit I was not familiar with. He traveled the world wide and far, and took endless pictures (always B&W). Frankly there are no words to convey the power of these pictures. There is a segment in the film about Salgado's time in the Sahel (1984-1986), when thousands were dying of famine and illness, a human catastrophe of immense proportions. Salgado's pictures are almost too much to bear, to be honest. You look at those pictures, and then you see the pettiness (and worse) of so much that is going on in the world, it just leaves you shaking your head in disbelief and disgust.
"The Salt of the Earth" premiered at the 2014 Cannes film festival, where it promptly won one of the top prizes. It has received universal acclaim. Now 10 years later, the movie is still rated 95% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. I see a lot of documentaries, and this one is most extraordinary on many levels. It is currently streaming on Hulu, where I caught it just the other night. If you like documentaries, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Abducted in Plain Sight (2017)
Once again facts are stranger than fiction
As "Abducted In Plain Sight" (2017 release; 91 min.) opens, we are introduced to Jan Broberg, the oldest of 3 young daughters in the Broberg family in Idaho. A neighbor, a guy nicknamed "B", took Jan, then 12 years old out for horseback riding in October, 1974, and the vanished... At this point we are less than 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this was directed by Skye Borgman, when later directed "Girl In the Picture". Here she focuses on the disappearance of a young girl, kidnapped by a neighbor. Where were the parents? And other neighbors? I was completely unfamiliar with these events, and this documentary shows yet again that facts are stranger than fiction. If this were a made-up story, it would be entirely unbelievable. But it is not fictional. The film makers interview most of the people that were directly involved in these events.
"Abducted In Plain Sight" was released in 2017 but I was unfamiliar with it, until I read a blurb on it in the New York Times about good film that would soon disappear from Netflix. I immediately searched it it, and I can only agree with the NYT's assessment of this. (It is currently rated 75% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes). If you are a fan of true crime documentaries, I'd readily suggest you check it out and draw your own conclusion.
Power of the Dream (2024)
WNBA players use their platform to maximum effect
As "Power of the Dream" (2024 release; 94 min.) opens, it is "August 27,2020" and the WNBA players refuse to play after Jacob Blake, yet another young Black male, is shot in the back by a white police officer. The documentary then goes back to the early days when the league was started in 1996. At this point we are less than 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this is the latest documentary directed by Dawn Porter ("John Lewis: Good Trouble"). It is co-produced by several WNBA players, including Sue Bird. Here Porter looks back at the tumultuous year that was 2020, when the world as we knew stopped (due to COVID 19) and the police brutality on Blacks reached levels unimaginable, while at the same time a presidential and congressional elections were unfolding also in ways unimaginable. In the midst of it all, the players of the WNBA decide to use their platform to tell the world what they thought of it all. The most interesting aspect of it all is the Kelly Loeffler, majority owner of the Atlanta Dream and gifted a seat in the US Senate, decides to go all in on Trump and MAGA, to fight off the upstart campaign for that all-important US Senate seat by Rafael Warnock, a Black pastor. Let's just say this right here and now: "Power Of the Dream" is NOT a sports documentary. It is a political documentary about how WNBA players (of which most of them are Black) use their platform to broadcast their political views. As such this makes for a powerful documentary. It also is a stark reminder why insanely shocking the year 2020 turned out to be in so many ways.
"Power of the Dream" premiered at this year's Tribeca Film Festival to immediate critical acclaim. It started streaming on Amazon Prime a few weeks ago. The documentary is currently rated 100% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels a bit too generous to me. That said, if you are in the mood for a political documentary about the tumultuous year that was 2020, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Memory (2023)
Strong lead performances make this worthwhile
As "Memory" (2023 release; 103 min.) opens, we are introduced to Sylvia, a single mom attending an AA meeting along with her teenage daughter. Sylvia is a social worker at a daycare facility. Then one day., she attends a high school reunion with her younger sister. A man approaches her. Sylvia leaves and goes back home. Only that man follows her all the way... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from Mexican writer-producer-editor-director Michel Franco "After Lucia"). Here he brings a story of a chance encounter between two people, one of which is struggling with early onset dementia. The movie is plot heavy so the less said on the the better. But the movie is also heavy, emotionally and otherwise. The movie benefits enormously from the two lead performances: Jessica Chastain as Sylvia, and Peter Sarsgaard as Saul. The movie is set entirely in New York City, and is indeed New York heavy.
"Memory" premiered at last Fall's Venice Film Festival to immediate acclaim. It is currently rated 95% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels a little generous. The movie had a brief theatrical run and now is streaming in Max, where I caught it the other night. If you are in the mood for a heavy duty family drama or simply a fan of Jessica Chastain, I'd readily suggest you check it out and draw your own conclusion.
Kinds of Kindness (2024)
The latest off-kilter film by Yorgos Lanthimos
As "Kind of Kindness" (2024 release; 164 min.) opens, we are informed of "The Death of R. M. F." We get to know Robert, who is under the thumb of Raymond. Raymond orders Robert to crash his SUB on purpose into the car of a guy named R. M. F. At this point we are less than 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from Greek writer-producer-director Yorgos Lanthimos. Lanthimos has a knack for the off-kilter (see: "The Lobster", "The Favourite" "Poor Things"). Here he pushed the envelope even further, bringing 3 separate stories that are (very( loosely connect through the character of R. M. F.: "The Death of R. M. F", "R. M. F. Is Flying" and "R. M. F. Eats a Sandwich". The stories are plot-heavy so the less said, the better. Just watch! All three stories are played by the same performers (but in different roles of each of the stories): Lanthimos regular Emma Stone is once again outstanding, but Jesse Plemons, Willem Defoe and Margaret Quailey are equally up to the task. If you wonder about the movie's long running time, all I can say is that this movie just flew by.
The production budget for "Kinds of Kindness" was a mere $15 million, a pittance in today's Hollywood. Yet Lanthimos has done it again. A master story teller of the off-cent and off-kilter, pure and simple. The movie premiered at this year's Cannes Film Festival to great acclaim, and it is now showing in US theaters. The matinee showing where I saw this at on Independence Day here in Cincinnati was attended so-so (about 10 people). If you are a fan of Yorgos Lanthimos' prior work, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Hit Man (2023)
Didn't meet my (sky high) expectations
As "Hit Man" (2023 release; 115 min.) opens, we are told that this is "A Somewhat True Story", We are introduced to Gary Johnson, a professor of psychology at the University of New Orleans. But he also has a side gig at the New Orleans Police Department, where eventually he becomes an undercover (fake) hit man. He is surprisingly good at soliciting murder-for-hire confessions... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from writer-producer-director Richard Linklater, one of the greatest directors of our time ("Boyhood", the "Before" trilogy, and many others). Here he brings us the (inspired by true facts) story of a guy who gets tangled up in all kinds of situations as an undercover fake hit man. I must confess that I found the opening half hour to be extremely slow and I started wondering what the heck this was working towards. But then the story got better. The movie benefits greatly from the obvious on-screen chemistry between Glen Powell (as Gary; he also co-wrote the script) and Adria Arjona (as Gary's romantic interest). In fact, that saved the movie for me when all was said and done.
"Hit Man" premiere at the Venice film festival in September, 2023 to immediate acclaim. Netflix purchased the movie, and after a very short theatrical run around Memorial Day, the movie started streaming in early June. And did I tell you that this is currently rated 85% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes? And that Richard Linklater directed this? So yes, my expectations were sky high for this. Alas, I couldn't quite get into this when I watched it a few nights ago, much to my own surprise and disappointment. If you are a fan of Richard Linklater's work, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)
When a cat steals the show
As "A Quiet Place: Day One" (2024 release; 100 min.) opens, we are introduced to Sam, who is at a hospice and dealing with terminal cancer. She has a service cat called Frodo. A male nurse decides to take a group of the patients into the city (New York) for a puppet show. Once they get to NYC, it's not long before things go astray... At this pint we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the 2nd feature length from director Michael Sarnoski ("Pig"). Working from a story that Jon Krasinksi helped develop, this movie purports to be prequel to the first 2 Quiet Place movies, and from a timing standpoint, I imagine that is indeed the case. But if you think that this is an origin story that explains where the alien creatures come from or why they came to earth and if so how and to do what, you will be sorely disappointed as NONE of this is explained or even alluded to. Indeed this movie works exactly like the other 2 movies: you'd better be quiet or the creatures will come after you. That's it, nothing more, nothing less. That makes this movie easily the weakest of the three Quiet Place movies. Lupita Nyong'o brings a decent lead role as Sam, but as it turns out, it's her cute cat Frodo who steals the show. Frodo gets into all kinds of trouble, and then just watch what happens!
"A Quite Place: Day One" was released in theaters this weekend, and it performed slightly better at the box office ($53 mill) than projected ($40-50 mill). THe screening where I saw this at early Sunday evening here in Cincinnati was attended so-so (a quick scan counted about 10-12 people in a large auditorium). If you are a fan of the earlier Quiet Place movie, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
The Blue Angels (2024)
Eye-popping photography
As "The Blue Angels" (2024 release; 93 min.) opens, we are told that at any given time, the US Navy has about 3,700 battle-ready fighter pilots, of which 6 are assigned each year to the Blue Angels. We then go to "January, first day of training" in El Centro, CA, as the latest group of Blue Angels starts a grueling 3 months of training and flying as much as 3 times a day. At this point we are less than 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from veteran British director Paul Crowder. Here he takes us along on the entire 2022 season of the Blue Angels, from training to air shows and everything in between. Of course what interests us the viewer most it the flying sequences, and let me just say it: the footage is nothing short of eye-popping, a trye delight from start to finish. The 6 pilots are just the top of the iceberg as they are supported by dozens and dozens of additional support staff. As they go from city to city, it's very much like following a top band doing a national concert tour. You might say that this documentary is just one long commercial for the US Navy and you might not be wrong. But the fact remains that the footage of flying sequences is so spectacular that it doesn't matter.
"The Blue Angels" premiered on IMAX and Omnimax screens earlier this year, and it is now streaming on Amazon Prime, where I saw it the other night. This movie is currently rated 85% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels like a little too generous. That said, if you are in the mood to see our country's best fighter pilots putting on one heck of a spectacular air show, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
The Bikeriders (2023)
Style over plot, with strong lead performances
As "The Bikeriders" (2023 release; 116 min) opens, It is "Kathy interview 1965", and Kathy retells the story of how she met Benny, member of the (fictitious) Vandals motorcycle club in Chicago. We learn that Johnny, President of the Vandals, was inspired by watching "The Wild One" starring Marlon Brando. At that point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from writer-director Jeff Nichols ("Mud", "Loving"). The movie's story line is inspire by a picture book of the same name by Danny Lyon, covering motorcycle clubs in the Midwest 1965-1973. The plot is thin, and this is more about evoking the spirit of motorcycle clubs found in "The Wild One" and "Easy Rider". The good news is that the lead performances are strong, and it is a pleasure watching Austin Butler (as Benny), fast rising British actress Jodie Comer (as Kathy) and Tom Hardy (as Johnny). The movie also features a quasi non-stop soundtrack of music from the late 60s-early 70s. Last but not least, you would never guess it, but the movie was shot entirely in and around Cincinnati (where I live), mostly its suburbs and exurbs. Kudos to Film Cincinnati for landing that production here!
"The Bikeriders" was shot in Cincinnati in Fall of 2022, and premiered at the 2023 Telluride film festival to positive claim. Alas, as a result of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, the theatrical release was pushed back until June of 2024. The Saturday early evening showing where I saw this at here in Cincinnati was attended so-so (about 10 people). If you are in the mood for a motorcycle club movie evoking the 1960's, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini (2024)
More proof (if any further was needed) that facts are stranger than fiction
As Episode 1 of "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini" (2024 release; 3 ranging from 53 to 62 min each) opens, it is "November 2, 2016: and we hear a frantic 911 call from a guy who says that his wife Sherri is missing. The family lives is Redding, CA, a remote area close to the Oregon border. It isn't long before the local cops are zeroing in on the husband as a suspect... At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: let me state upfront that I had not heard of this particular true crime case before. Perhaps I heard about it in 2016 when this broke, but I don't recall. In any event, this is another great true crime documentary, and yet more proof (if any further was needed) that facts are stranger than fiction. Of course, I'm not going to spoil what happened. At just 3 episodes, this flies by in no time (I saw the whole thing in a single setting). The production team does a nice job pacing and editing this.
"Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini" recently started streaming on Hulu, where I caught it the other night. If you are a fin of true crime documentaries, I'd readily suggest you check this out and draw your own conclusion.
MoviePass, MovieCrash (2024)
Much more than the rise and fall of MoviePass
As "MoviePass MovieCrash" (2024 release; 91 min.) opens, we are introduced to various key players of the original MoviePass project. It is 2016, 5 years after the start of MoviePass, and the company is making a bold move in order to grow its subscriber bas: unlimited movies, anytime, anywhere, for $9.95/mth. At this point we are less than 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from director Muta'Ali ("Cassius X: Becoming Ali"). Here he brings two stories in one: the rise and fall of MoviePass, a story known by many; and then there is this: did you know that MoviePass was in fact founded by two African-American guys? I didn't. And what happened to these guys? We get the full picture in this revealing documentary. This documentary reminds us of two correlating points: if something sounds too god to be true, it probably is; and corporate greed is alive and well. Mark Walhberg is credited as a co-producer.
"MoviePass, MovieCrash" premiered at this year's SXSW festival, to immediate critical acclaim. The documentary is now airing on HBO and its streaming platform Max, where I saw it the other day. It is currently rated 88% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. If you are in the mood for a documentary that goes well beyond the rise and fall of MoviePass, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Nos vemos en otra vida (2024)
Hulu is streaming this mini-series dubbed in English. For shame
As Episode 1 of "See You In Another Life" (2024 release from Spain; 6 episodes ranging from 33 to 45 minutes each) opens, reference is made to the terrorist attack in Madrid, Spain on March 11, 2004. We then go to "June 12, 2004. Three months after the facts", and we are introduced to a young man named Baby. As he is leaving his parents' house, the Spanish police comes out of nowhere and arrest him. At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: as it stands now, this is all I have seen and I don't plan to watch any more of it. Why? Because as it turns out, Hulu is streaming the mini-series from Spain in English. Worse yet, there are no options to switch to the original Spanish version with English subtitles. Why, oh why? I completely understand that some people preferred English dubbed to the original version with subtitles, and good for them. I unfortunately am in the other camp. I simply cannot stand it when you are watching a movie or series that is clearly set in a country where the prevalent language is not English, and then see them "talking" in English.
I hope that this mini-series will show up on another streaming platform where once can make your own choice of which version to watch (dubbed or original).
Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult (2024)
Another cult-investigative documentary
As Episode 1 of "Dancing For the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult" (2024 release; 3 episodes ranging 49-38 min each) opens, we are in "Detroit, MI" and a woman named Melissa laments "I miss my sister so much". That would be Miranda, whose dance videos, made by 7M, have gone viral on TIkTok. 7M happens to be run by a pastor of the Shekinah Church in Los Angeles. Miranda has severed all contact with her family... At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: this is the latest documentary from director Derek Doneen ("The Price of Free"). Here he digs into the situation at the Shekinah Church in Los Angeles which also runs the "talent management" company called 7M. The documentary's talking heads are primarily former members who have left. We are given ample evidence of financial shenanigans and worse. A man who claims to be "Man of God" and manipulates people into believing that if they please him, they please God directly. Hmmm, where have we heard this before? It is your classical cult. It never fails to amaze me how people still fall for this, time and again. At 3 episodes, this clips by in no time.
"Dancing For the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult" premiered on Netflix earlier this week. I watched all 3 episodes in a single setting. If you are intrigued how people get sucked into a cult, whether they realize or or not, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Atlas (2024)
By all means, AVOID
As "Atlas" (2024 release; 120 minutes) opens, we are in the near future and AI has gone rogue. The AI model at issue was built by Shepherd Robotics, and a 10 yo girl called Atlas grew up along. We then go to "28 Years Later", and Atlas, now 38, is an AI terrorist expert... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from director Brad Peyton ("Rampage"). More importantly, this is also the latest from Jennifer Lopez who stars as Atlas but also co-produced. JLo tries her best with the material she is given, which alas is not much. The script is beyond bad, and that sinks the movie then and there. Let me be upfront: I gave this movie a try, and I lasted about 40 minutes, at which point I simply gave up and bailed. You don't have to waste 40 minutes of your life, I already did it for you!
"Atlas" started streaming on Netflix over the Memorial Day weekend. It is currently rated a dismal 19% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. I simply cannot recommend this to anyone in good conscience. By all means, AVOID.
Dark Matter (2024)
"Endless possibilities!"
As Episode 1 of "Dark Matter" (2024 release; 9 episodes ranging from 46 to 10 min) opens, we are introduced to Jason and Daniela, married with 15 yo Charlie. Jason teaches at a local college in Chicago. Daniela works at an art gallery. One night, after Jason leaves a bar where he met up with a buddy, Jason is assaulted and kidnapped by a masked man... At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: this sci-fi mini-series is based on the book of the same name by Blake Crouch, who is also the driving force of the mini-series (he wrote the script and produces). In essence, this is another variation of the well-known theme of multiverses, where alternate versions of people roam, causing all kids of mayhem. The mini-series is plot-heavy so I won't say another word about the plot. Suffice to say that this grabbed my attention from the get-go. The lead performers (Joel Edgerton; Jennifer Connely; Alice Braga) are all quite engaging. This mini-series should've been called "The Box", rather than "Dark Matter". Last but not least, this mini-series brings stunning views of Chicago, in various states of decline and/or transformation.
"Dark Matter" started streaming on Apple TV in early May, and I just caught up with it earlier this week, binge-watching the 5 episodes available to date. Can't wait to see the remainder episodes. This mini-series is currently rated 80% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels about right. If you are a fan of sci-fi and multiverses, I'd readily suggest you check this out and draw your own conclusion.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)
Stars out slow, then hits on all cylinders
As "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" (2024 release from Australia; 145 min.) opens, we are introduced to Furiosa as a little girl, maybe 6-7 years old. She ends up bein stolen from the Green Place (later also referred to as the Place of Abundance), and Furiosa's mom gives chase... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this movie serves as a companion and outright prequel to 2015's "Fury Road". In "Furiosa" we learn all what happened that was briefly referred to in "Fury Road". "Furiosa" is structed in 5 separate chapters. The initial 2 chapters are frankly too long for their own good. When the third chapter arrives, about 1 hour in, we now get young (late teens/early 20s) Furiosa (played by Anya Taylor-Joy) and coincidentally or not, the movie immediately picks up pace and finally feels what we've come to expect from a Mad Max movie: insanely tense and over-the-top vehicle chases of all kinds, with correlating violence and fights. Chris Hemsworth is okay as Dementus, the main bad guy. And Mad Max? He is nowhere to be found. He was already reduced to a secondary character in "Fury Road". Given the strong character that Furiosa has become, I can't say that Mad Max is missed all that much.
"Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" opened this Memorial Day weekend, and was a box office disappointment (only $32 mill over the 4 day weekend). The Sunday early evening screening where I saw this at here in Cincinnati was not attended well (maybe 20-25 people in a large theater). That does not bode well, considering that just the production budget (meaning not counting the marketing budget) was about $160 mill. "Furiosa" is currently rated 90% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels a little generous to me. In a way, it is the victim of its own success. "Fury Road" was so staggeringly good on so many levels (an both commercially and critically) that nothing could ever live up to that. This is not to say that "Furiosa" is not a good movie. If you are a fan of the Mad Max franchise, I'd readily encourage you to check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
Exciting new chapter in the "Planet of the Apes" franchise
As "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" (2024 release; 145 min.) opens, there is a brief reference to the death of Caesar. We are "Many Generations Later" and are introduced to Noa and two of his friends as they capture eagle eggs. It's not long before trouble is a-brewing in the ape landscape... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this latest chapter in the long-running "Planets of the Apes" franchise is directed by Wes Ball, who directed the "Maze Runner" trilogy. The story is set a reported 300 years after Caesar's death and you would think that perhaps the apes have sorted themselves out and live in peace and harmony. You might be wrong. And what about the humans? They are still around, but play a very secondary role in this particular story. The story is plot-heavy so the less said on that, the better. Most importantly, the action scenes are well done. While perhaps a bit too long for its own good, it's still an exciting new chapter, and I'm already looking forward to the next movie.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" was released in US theaters the weekend of May 10. I caught it the next weekend. The Sunday early evening screening where I saw this at here in Cincinnati was attended quite well (a quick count tells me about 40 people in the theater). The movie is currently rated 80% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and has done well at the box office. If you are a fan of the "Plante of the Apes" franchise, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Das Signal (2024)
OK sci-fi mini-series from Germany
As "The Signal" (2024 release from Germany; 4 episodes ranging from 55 to 69 min) opens, we are introduced to Paula, a German astronaut in the International Space Station. She makes an astonishing discovery: she picks up a signal from deep space in what appears to be a child's voice. In a parallel story, we are introduced to Paula's husband Sven and their 9 yo daughter Charlie, eagerly awaiting Paula's return to earth. At this point w are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: this German mini-series reminds of that other recent sci-ci release "Constellation" on Apple TV. "The Signal" is super plot heavy, so the less said, the better. Just be ready for a wild ride! Florian David Fitz (as Sven) also co-wrote the script. Peri Baumeister (previously unknown to me) is great as Paula. These episodes flew by in no time.
"The Signal" started streaming on Netflix in March, but I just now got around to watching this. "The Signal" is currently rated 80% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels a little generous to me. If you are in the mood for a sci-fi mini-series, I'd readily suggest you check it out, and draw your own conclusion.
The Contestant (2023)
bizarre reality TV documentary from Japan
As "The Contestant" (2023 release from Japan; 90 min) opens, we are introduced to a young Japanese comedian and actor, later nicknamed Nasubi ("Eggplant"), and it is the late 90s. Desperate to get away from Fukushima, he tries his luck in Tokyo, and before we know it, he is entering a wild TV reality show, where he is isolated in a small room and without clothes. He must enter various product sweepstakes to earn food and shelter... At this point we are 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: as always we need to make a distinction between the subject matter of this film on the on hand, and whether this documentary is any good. As to the former, this borders on psychological bullying, if not worse, and all in the name of attracting higher ratings. Japanese TV has a reputation over pushing the edges, but in my humble opinion, this goes far beyond that. For shame. As to the documentary itself, this is well done, and carefully brought onto the screen. I will admit that I had a hard time watching this. The film makers talk to the main people involved with these events now a quarter century later. The TV producer of this reality show seems to have no, or very little, regrets. As for Nasubi: just watch!
"The Contestant" premiered at last Fall's Toronto International Film Festival to great acclaim. It is currently rated 94% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels very generous to me. It is currently streaming on Hulu, where I caught it the other night. If you are in the mood for a documentary about a bizarre reality TV show in Japan from the late 90s, I'd recommend you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
Living with Leopards (2024)
Outstanding nature documentary
As "Living With Leopards" (2024 release from the UK; 71 min.) opens, we are in the "Okavango Delta, Botswana", and Brad is following and filming a female leopard named Mothuma. The leopard freefalls from 40 feet high into a tree onto an unsuspecting prey. Why would she take such a risk? Soon we understand as she has 2 cubs to feed and protect, "unknown to the world for the initial 3 months". At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from award nominated British director Alex Parkinson ("Last Breath"). Here, he brings the tale of a group of photographers in Botswana who are following the trace of one leopard family. They spend wees, months, years to capture the incredible footage that this documentary contains (it was filmed over a period of 2 1/2 years). And when I say "incredible footage", I mean this documentary brings to the screen various scenes that I never imagined could be caught on tape. Then again, think of it this way: it took the film makers 30 months to capture this on tape, and we are seeing this distilled into 71 minutes... Kudos also the the top-notch original score for this documentary.
"Living With Leopards" recently started streaming on Netflix, and I caught it last night. So glad I did. If you are in the mood for a top quality nature documentary, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.
The Final: Attack on Wembley (2024)
Compelling if revolting documentary
As "The Final: Attack on Wembley" (2024 release from the UK; 82 min.) it is "11th July 2021", and England is set to play in and host the final of the 2020 Euros (delayed by a year due to COVID) against Italy. The movie starts at 8 am (12 hours before kickoff), and people from all over England are descending upon London, already heavily drinking, and many without tickets for the game. What could go wrong? At this point we are 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this movie brings a chilling account of the events on July 11, 2021, leading up to the game. A number of factors were heavily at play: first, this was England's fist chance since 1966 to win a major trophy; second, as in 1966, they would also be hosting the event; third, due to COVID delaying the tournament by a year, this was the first time people would be out and celebrating en masse; and last but not least: the English authorities vastly underestimated what was about to transpire. In short: all elements were in place for a massive for a colossal breakdown of security. The footage makes for absolute compelling if revolting viewing. I cannot readily recall having seen anything like this. The movie makers keep a tight pace throughout, and this documentary just flew by in no time.
"The Final" Attack On Wembley" started streaming on Netflix this weekend. Whether or not you are a soccer fan is frankly irrelevant. This is a documentary that shows what happens when an entire country is frenzied, with thousands of people determined to get into Wembley stadium, ticker or no ticket. SHOCKINGLY (not), pure mayhem and chaos ensues... Highly recommended.
Unfrosted (2024)
Sub par from Jerry Seinfeld
As "Unfrosted" (2024 release; 93 min.) opens, we are in "Battle Creek, Michigan, 1963" and the town's two cereal makers, Kellogg's and Post, are fierce competitors. At that year's Bowl & Spoon Awards, Kellogg's sweeps. Meanwhile Post is trying tom come up with a new concoction...
Couple of comments: this is directed by Jerry Seinfeld (directing his 1st feature length)). He also co-wrote the script, co-produced, and for good measure also stars in it. In other words: this is a Seinfeld product. Alas, the best that I can say is that there are a few funny scenes in it but that otherwise the movie is very uneven, and the sense I got was that everyone is trying SO HARD to make this work, you can practically hear Seinfeld yell "and... ACTION!". It's certainly bot for a lack of on-screen talent: besides Seinfeld (as a Kellogg executive), we also have Amy Schumer (as CEO of Post), Melissa McCarthy (as a Kellogg researcher), and Hugh Grant (as Tony the Tiger), among others. Bottom line: this is okay, but just okay, and nothing more than a quick diversion.
"Unfrosted" bypassed the theaters and was released on Netflix last weekend. I caught it a few days ago. This movie is currently rated only 39% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and the movie shows it. If you are a fan of Jerry Seinfeld or the tv show Seinfeld, as I am, I'd readily suggest you check this out, but with lowered expectations, and draw your own conclusion.
Enter the Slipstream (2023)
Not quite as riveting as Tour de France: Unchained
As "Enter the Slipstream" (2023 release; 88 min.) opens, it is "August 26, 2020, Nice, France" and the 2020 Tour de France is about to start, after being delayed for almost 2 moths due to the COVID pandemic raging around the world. This is not without risk, and the question is whether the Tour can even make it all the way to Paris three weeks later. We then go back to "Six Months Earlier", before the pandemic even started, to the beginning of the pro cycling season at the Tour of Colombia. The American racing team Education First is there as its top man is Rigoberto Uran and several others are in fact Colombian. Uran is returning from a massive injury he sustained in the fall of 2022... At this point we are 10 minutes into the documentary.
Couple of comments: this documentary follows 1 racing team, with seemingly unfettered access, and it is quite interesting to see the cycling season through that particular lens. The bulk of the documentary does focus on the Tour de France, the grandaddy and most important of all pro cycling events. The impact of COVID is palpable throughout the documentary, which only adds to the drama. What a strange year 2020 turned out to be.
This documentary was released in the early summer of 2023 but I only became aware of it now, as Peacock (where it is now streaming) was pushing it on its sports section. I am not sure what held back the release (3 years after the facts). Better late than never! Interestingly, last summer also saw the release of the documentary mini-series "Tour de France: Unchained", and that is one of the best sports documentaries I have ever seen, period. In the meantime, if you are a fan of pro cycling in general, or of the Tour de France in particular, I'd readily suggest you check out "Enter the Slipstream", and draw your own conclusion.
Under the Bridge (2024)
Riveting true crime drama mini-series
As Episode 1 of "Under the Bridge" (2024 release; 8 episodes of about 50 min. Each) opens, it is "November 14, 1997" and we are introduced to Reena, a teenage girl of Indian descent. She is trying hard to fir in with other girls her age, but it isn't easy. In a parallel story, we are introduced to Rebecca, who is visiting from New York as she is working on a book about Victoria, BC, where she grew up... At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: this mini-series is the brainchild of Quinn Shepard ("Not Okay"). Here she brings the book of the same name by Rebecca Godfrey to the small screen. I was mesmerized from the start, lured by the top notch script and strong performances by the cast (led by Riley Keough as Rebecca and Lily Gladstone as Cam). At this point I have seen 4 of the 8 episodes. It becomes clear very quickly who is responsible for the murder of Reena, so I was wondering why the mini-series would need so many episodes. Only tot then find out that more layers are peeled back, as we get the full picture of how the family from India settles in Victoria and tries to integrate. Beware: there are a number of scenes that will make you quite uncomfortable but sometime the truth ain't pretty, and that's being mild. Looking forward to watching the remaining 4 episodes in the weeks to come.
"Under the Bridge" is streaming on Hulu and new episodes are released on Wednesdays. The mini-series is currently rated 88% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. If you are in the mood for a riveting true crime drama mini-series, I'd readily suggest you check this out and draw your own conclusion.
La bête (2023)
Time-warped psychological drama from France
As "The Beast" (2023 release from France) opens, we are introduced to Gabrielle, who is at an early 20th century party and while looking for her husband George, she ends up meeting Louis. We then go to "2044" and Gabrielle is being talked into cleaning her DNA from all feelings... At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.
Couple of comments: this is the latest from French writer-producer-director Bertrand Bonello, best known here in the US for his biopic "Saint Laurent". Here he explores what a world with cleansed feelings might look like. It takes a while to fully understand what is happening, as the movie jumps back-and-forth between 1920, 2044 and 2014. But once the movie finds its groove, this becomes must-see. The movie is helped immensely by the strong lead performance of Lea Seydoux as Gabrielle. Please note that the screen ratio changes often throughout the movie. And then this: when the film ends and fades to black, I was expecting the end credits. Instead, the screen showed a QR code, with the tagline: Credits: Scan Me. First time I've seen this in a theatrical release...
"The Beast" premiered at last Fall's Venice Film Festival to good critical acclaim. The movie is currently rated 85% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. I saw the movie at my local arthouse theater here in Cincinnati this past Sunday. The early evening screening was attended so-so (I counted about 10 people). If you are in the mood for a time-warped psychological drama, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.