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Voleuses (2023)
Fun premise but the female friendship shines
I went into this film with low expectations, expecting another generic action movie with no substance.
What I got instead was a visually really lovely film with some beautiful sceneries, badass women, fun banter and, most importantly, a beautiful depiction of female friendship. That, I believe, is what the film is truly about. The friendship between Carole and Alex is based on unconditional love and support, the kind of connection that can only be described as platonic soulmates. Carole's level-headedness balances out Alex's impulsivity. Their absolute faith and trust in each other, whether it's about a mission and blindly believing in the other's skills, or in their personal life, it is moving to witness.
I think Sam was a nice addition to the movie, her presence further strengthening the found-family trope. She has experienced immense loss as well, leaving her lonely and grieving. So, Alex and Carole's grand entrance into her life was met with a wariness that quickly turned into a trust and connection that, albeit not as deep as Alex and Carole's, we know that with time could turn just as deep. She finds a beautiful friendship with them, and together they embark on their new journey towards healing.
I understand why some viewers might think this to be "homoerotic" but, having such friendships myself, I was deeply moved and comforted to see such a loving, healthy and supportive friendship (I think it's worthy to note that the film was directed by a woman, who clearly has experienced having a (or multiple) platonic soulmate(s)). So, while it doesn't go too crazy in the action or too into detail about the master plans, I think it's still a fun and unexpectedly emotional watch.
End of the Road (2022)
2 stars solely for the cinematography.
The beginning of the film lays groundwork for a story that centers around family drama which stems from the death of Latifah's husband, having to move after selling the house due to the accumulated debt from his medical bills, and the children that are incapable of understanding and appreciating their mother's efforts. The film starts out as a road trip movie but then suddenly, out of the blue, we are introduced to a new plot line - dirty money, cartels, corruption. The film brings nothing new to the genre; an innocent, everyday family accidentally gets tangled up in the underworld.
The whole "tension" relies on a subpar plot-device that could have been solved right at the beginning. The bag with the money was stolen by Reggie, the actual only comic relief in this horrendously boring film that is filled with a cast that should be impressive, yet underperform in a way that puts C-grade actors to shame...
Even if I overlook the weak plot, the film just takes itself much more seriously than it should. With obvious and cliched "twists", it feeds the viewer information that is so obvious it almost insinuates the viewer is too oblivious to comprehend the non-existent complexity of the film. Where did the random cleaning lady come from? Why did she think Latifah was the perfect target for a robbery? Couldn't Latifah say the money belongs to Cross right at the beginning and saved herself the trouble of dealing with the ragtag group of neo-nazis that seem to just chill in the middle of the desert?
We are supposed to be shocked that the Sheriff is the villain... maybe it would have been more impressive with more charismatic acting, but the way it is it felt like I was watching a western thriller from the 70's (fight scenes and plot included).
All in all, it was a disappointing movie that is only remotely saved by the creative liberties the cinematographer took. Don't recommend even for a "don't want to think about it just want to be entertained" kinda night.