"El Club" is not an easy viewing experience as it takes a very deep look at the failings of the church and yet manages to humanize people that have engaged in rather deplorable behavior. Larrain's powers are undeniably on the rise and this film, with its austere qualities, pulls the viewer in and never lets go.
"The Treasure" measures up to its name as a film filled with ceaseless formal, emotional and narrative riches. While its earnest style might not suit everyone, those willing to sit patiently will be justly rewarded for their efforts.
The two performances selected as the two standouts in this edition pit men against something larger. On one hand, you have a military man fighting for what he perceives to be the liberation of his nation. On the other hand, you have an explorer fighting the elements. Neither makes it out alright.
Let's have a look.
Fans of "The Hunger Games" will adore this film. Those who have lesser interest might struggle a bit with the film's mythos despite its universal, and dare I say timely, themes? This is not your traditional blockbuster with action setpieces placed in specific and formulaic moments. And thank goodness for that indeed. That said, the film remains a bit indulgent, a predictable outcome for a film that is ultimately really half of book and should have been combined with its cumbersome predecessor into a tightly wound film.
"Spotlight" is a powerful film that almost feels as if one is living the case out as the movie develops. It is a film that will be talked about long after audiences have left the theater and one that will definitely stir conversation.
"Brooklyn" will make you cry. It is the kind of movie filled with melancholy that anyone leaving home can fully understand. It is a movie about the passage into full-blown adulthood and the coming to terms with one's identity. There might some disappointments in the film, but they are microscopic compared to the glorious acting and filmmaking on display.
Overall this is not the movie audiences will expect from the trailers. And while it may not be Del Toro's best film to date, it is a truly satisfying and impeccably put together work of art.
"Steve Jobs" is not your traditional biopic but instead an operatic "backstage" look at the life of man well-known for his work in front of the proscenium. Those looking for "historical accuracy" might as well turn to the languid "cradle to grave" "Jobs" which stars Ashton Kutcher. This film however, in its pace, its inventiveness and dynamism, is far more true to the spirit of one of the most exciting geniuses of our time.
All in all "99 Homes" is not an easy watch and may turn some people off. However, it is a film that resonates with today's housing crisis and one that most audiences can definitely relate to. "99 Homes" is a suspenseful and shocking film that will leave audiences thinking about it for days to come.
For Audiences looking for a true horror film, "Goodbye Mommy" will not disappoint. For those looking for more than a scream, this will also prove satisfying and unforgettable. However, if you want cheap thrills, "The Visit" will prove to be a better option.
"La Jaula de Oro" is not a crowd-pleasing film and people who are rabidly against undocumented immigrants may find little of interest to them. Those looking at intensely rich art that uncovers the pain of the immigration process from this perspective will discover a newfound appreciation for the subject.
"Before We Go" is a nice indie movie to be sure and audiences looking for an old-fashioned romance might find it attractive. However those looking for a more polished and emotionally fulfilling ride will be in for a disappointment. It isn't "the biggest loser in New York City" as Brooke calls Nick at one point, but it certainly is not the heroic work that Nick claims he wants to do.
"Sinister 2" is not the worst horror movie in the world. There are certainly more tasteless films out there, but this one seems like a missed opportunity to build off of a decent first installment.
