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Reviews
Generation Why (2009)
Generation Why: A Relevant Contemporary Classic
The basic synopsis of this film is this: a group of post-high school adults are about to reach a breaking point as they struggle in dealing with the pressures of society and the idea it has instilled that they all need to hold down part-time jobs, attend post-secondary and do something productive with their futures. Well-intended, but ultimately illogical, the lead character John (John Delahunt) comes to the decision after a heavy night of drinking and mingling with not-so-intellectual young adults, that he is going to remove himself from these pressures and responsibilities so that he can begin a relaxed, non-influenced introspection into the direction his life is headed.
At first hesitant, Cody (Cody Field) and Mike (Mike Thorn) brush this idea off as a silly, drunken ramble, but after continuing unhappy with their daily routines, they decide to jump aboard. The idea is for them to learn independence and to really question these principles fed to them by society, but the everyday young adult simply jumps aboard to take an opportunity to screw around selfishly. All hell breaks loose as the city hits an all-time low in unemployment, rapid alcohol consumption and general chaos. John, Mike and Cody feel responsible, and feel an obligation to these people to end the madness.
Brendan Prost has achieved in making a relevant, though-provoking and extremely entertaining film. The screenplay is intensely intelligent, and begs the audience to keep an active mind throughout the film. It rings true of our generation and examines it with an insightful, original voice. It also keeps up the energy with a unique sense of humour and witty, whimsical dialogue.
The performances are all very impressive; John Delahunt plays his part with a natural and likable presence, making him the perfect "hero" character. Mike Thorn reads into his character extremely well and draws out all those different emotions brought about by post- high school confusion subtly, shaping a layered and vivid character. Cody Field plays his part with a distinctive, unique energy fitting greatly for film.
The cinematography is stunning and stylish; I was blown away by the images even though I've lived in Calgary my whole life. The beauty of the nature and architecture is accomplished by creating crisp, illusory images I've never been able to see before. The steadicam involves the viewer in the story, and really creates the feeling of being there. It allows the viewer to walk with the three characters throughout their journey, enhancing the strong connection we already feel to their plight. The use of the budget is very clever and the stature of a deserted, haywire city is captured entirely convincingly.
All in all, this is the best work I've seen from Brendan Prost (and I've enjoyed all of his films), and the most mature, refined and important film he has released. All of these elements shape this film into an absolute must-see contemporary classic.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
A breakthrough in western film-making
An absolute masterpiece, and a breakthrough in western film-making that creates a unique experience as it captures the story of Jesse James poetically and intricately. Every single shot in the film is gorgeous in it's own way, providing the audience with intriguing dream-like images throughout the entire film, and truly capturing the raw and natural beauty of western civilization.
Although the narration seems to be criticized by some, and is believed to tell the audience what they can already see, I believe it does an excellent job of creating a story-like atmosphere which is entirely necessary in the context of the film. We are watching a movie that is presenting the life of Jesse James in the format of a past-tense story, although the narration is not boring and does not have a Discovery Network blandness to it. It rather suits the content and is full of depth.
Every scene is given the perfect amount of time that allows the audience to study all of the characters thoughts and emotions, it allows every single stare to be taken into account and examined fully. Andrew Dominik has complete faith in his actors to explore the characters intently with silence and gestures. Every single performance is impressive, beginning with Brad Pitt's complete embodiment of a mysterious, terrifying man and Pitt's every single small mannerism communicates to the audience more than any dialog. Casey Affleck's portrayal of a neurotic and obsessive coward is entirely natural and subtly creepy. Every single small role is played perfectly as well, with honorable mentions to Paul Schneider, Sam Rockwell, Jeremy Renner and Mary-Louise Parker.
A perfect western that rises above the generally action-packed genre and studies a complex man on a quiet yet epic scale. A truly brilliant film that allowed every detail necessary to explore the tale in its fullness and stylistically portrays the story as a true piece of art.