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12 Angry Men (1957)
Knife's Edge
Visual poetry from beginning to end, from a knife fixed to the table giving the impression of standing precariously on its edge, to the rings of sweat on our characters that grow larger with the tension. This innovative courtroom drama not only gives you the fascinating crime solving aspect, but includes thought provoking discussions of society and our places in it. This 60 year old film brings up still relevant issues; classism, toxic masculinity, prejudice against immigrants, etc. It leaves us confronted with our tendency to choose violence and judgment over mercy and empathy. The vision of Lumet combined with Rose's writing creates a marriage of a perfect piece of theater that withstands the test of time.
Grey Gardens (2009)
Broken Records
A movie created to answer the question that crosses the mind of every viewer of the documentary Grey Gardens (1976), "How did big and little Edie end up like this?" Sucsy tries to do this by presenting two parallel story lines; one of a younger mother and daughter trying to find their place in the world, and another of the lost, skipping records they become.
While it is shocking and quaint to see these beloved actors (Lange and Barrymore) bicker like the duo from the famous documentary, it is redundant to the veteran film buff, and confusing to the modern television watcher. Instead of a compelling biopic, Sucsy relies on the the fame of the 1976 documentary, and the assumption that all audience members have seen it. However the writing doesn't magically improve if you've had the honor of previously seeing the documentary. This film uses the same emotions and realizations one would have while watching the original, but adds the glitz and glamour of show business that was absent, and frankly unnecessary in creating the weight of the documentary.
Excellent performances from Barrymore and Lange, accompanied by visually pleasing and creative costuming are somewhat wasted on a half written film. Entertaining at least but had little to give beyond that.
Stop Making Sense (1984)
3 Acts With A Purpose And Story
Beginning with a suspense building shot of David Byrne's shoes' journey to the stage the film continues on a flow that smoothly rises, and climax's in a way reminiscent of a written play. Choreographed and performed in a way that doesn't read to the audience as forced, but enjoyable and natural. All moments of this incredibly talented group of players is captured perfectly by Demme, so one feels the excitement of being on stage, and the unsettling nature of the subject matter and creative vision. An hour and thirty minutes of simple but brilliant lighting, and pure Talking Heads worship.
The Bodyguard (1992)
Flat-lined After 30 Min
Lack luster performance from Kevin Costner. Although, I wouldn't expect anything more from him. A movie that can't decide if it's a romance or action film, that makes every scene seem over dramatic, but somehow still boring. Zero chemistry between the two actors creating a very forced relationship. The exposition makes you interested followed by a movie that makes you want to look at your phone. Positive Note: The best scene, the fight between Farmer and Tony, ending with the line "I don't want to talk about this again." had me actually laughing.