The weeks seem to blend in with each other as a full month has passed since the lockdowns became a reality. Fortunately, I kept track of the last nine movies I decided to watch these past two weeks. Some of these picks I had been meaning to see for years, others I hit play seconds after hearing about them for the first time. There is a bit of variety here, so I hope you find something that catches your eye or that you have enjoyed in the past
Once again, I will notate if a film is available for free on any major platform. The movies are in chronological order of when I saw them.
Magnolia (1999)
In theory this film should not work, but Magnolia is simply captivating. Paul Thomas Anderson weaves and connects his story between different players in the San Fernando Valley as we learn how trauma, failure and betrayal define their lives. At times it seems as though the film will delve into a complete melodrama, but through a moment of directorial intervention it becomes something else.
Why should I watch it?
The film is a showcase in acting and its impressive to see what Anderson pulls off at just 28 years old. At least five resonating storylines are told all at once, and not only are they connected, each storyline would be rock solid by itself! Although I was apprehensive about the three-hour run-time, the film grasped my attention and stormed by me.
Available for free on Netflix
She’s the Man (2006)
I have been told by numerous friends that I need to watch more chick flicks, and She’s the Man might have just been the perfect spark. Its Shakespearean influence combined with its cartoonish, Looney Tunes-style moments make it an unorthodox yet enjoyable movie. Playing Viola, a charismatic girl who disguises herself as her brother to be able to play soccer on her rival school’s boys’ team, Amanda Bynes packs with her an energy and a spunk that supports the whole film, and proving to me why it has so many dedicated fans.
Why should I watch it?
It is a hilarious experience, especially watching Bynes trying to act macho. Seeing a younger Changing Tatum act all awkward is entertaining as well. And again, if you accept the wacky gags for what they are, the film will come to you.
Three Kings (1999)
As a war film, Three Kings frantically follows George Clooney, Ice Cube and Mark Wahlberg as three soldiers searching for Saddam Hussein’s gold stockpile just after the Desert Storm ceasefire has been announced. It is a very different movie than what I have been used to from feel-good director David O. Russell. As a Desert Storm film, it is meta-conscious as it has both characters and viewers alike often asking the same question: “What are we doing here?”
Why should I watch it?
Very stylistic and kinetic in the vein of films like Hurt Locker or even Man on Fire, the story takes you further and further down its depths as the objective continues to hit snags. Its satirical nature combined with its gripping plot make it an entertaining take on the war-film genre.
Miracle (2004)
Kurt Russell is great as Team USA Head Coach Herb Brooks as he leads the national hockey team to the 1980 Winter Olympic title. Miracle’s main showdown is against Russia, an opponent whose might is aptly foreshadowed throughout the film through a tough exhibition match and the backdrop of the Cold War. Based on the true story, team USA, unlike Russia, only had amateur players on their squad, thus making it the ultimate underdog movie.
Why should I watch it?
Even though I did not include it in my feel-good movie list, it is a very effective uplifting sports flick, especially if you are into patriotic American films. The sprinting scene after the tie with Norway is well crafted, and I again must mention how fun it is to see Kurt Russell transform himself into a strict coach with an unwavering vision.
Available for Free on Netflix
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Let’s get it out of the way here, Robin Williams is amazing as John Keating, the prep school English teacher who inspires his class to learn through critical thinking. Yet Dead Poets Society is really held aloft by the kids, who unique personalities and budding adolescence is captured wonderfully by director Peter Weir. We follow them as they learn to stand up for themselves, but we are also present when the institutional and authoritative forces inevitably push back.
Why should I watch it?
I was worried the film would be too self-indulgent, but it balances the line well enough to really make a point as the final act proves to provide the poignant and symbolic statement the story needs. The acting is also very impressive, particularly the subtlety in Ethan Hawkes’ performance as the shy Todd Anderson.
Available for Free on Vudu (with ads)
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
I put it upon myself to add a Miyazaki movie to my feel-good movie chain post no matter what, prompting me to finally watch My Neighbor Totoro for the first time since I was very young. The viewing instantly confirmed what I had expected, My Neighbor Totoro is masterful, and deserved a spot on the feel-good list. The film follows the lead of two siblings,10-year-old Satsuki and 4-year-old Mei as they come in tune with the natural world around them that only they can see.
Why should I watch it?
This is a beautiful film. Miyazaki really gives the movie to the children, making it great for all ages. The kids win you over through their mannerisms and fancifulness, making you hold your breath with them in their moments of worry, yet also soar with them in their moments of wonder.
Maelstrom (2000)
A lot of signs of what was to come for director Denis Villenueve can be seen in his sophomore film Maelstrom; ambiguous shots, animal symbolism, heavy storylines dealing with trauma are all present. Through the movie we catch a glimpse into the tumultuous life of Bibian as she wrestles with the guilt of a horrific accident. Villenueve illustrates her confusion by confusing us too, as the film’s narrator happens to be a demonic looking fish on a chopping block.
Why should I watch it?
I watched Maelstrom to see one of my favorite directors at the beginning of his career before he began to make a big name for himself. The performances grabbed my attention, and the second half is stronger than the beginning, as I felt I was able to piece things together.
Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans (2009)
Werner Herzog is mainly known for his documentaries and intense directorial style, so watching his take on a crime/modern noir film fascinated me. Apparently, Bad Lieutenant: PCNO is a remake, and Herzog didn’t even watch the original. The film certainly challenges the viewer as we follow a protagonist (frantically played by Nicolas Cage) with little to no moral compass. The script holds up well, and there are some big names in it with minor appearances like Brad Douriff, Michael Shannon, Val Kilmer and Xzibit.
Why should I watch it?
If you are looking for a well-directed anti-hero story with twists, turns, and little to no answers as to what it all means, here is a movie for you. It is also apparent that Herzog has an eye for his settings, as the film keenly captures much of New Orleans’ varying locales.
Available for Free on Amazon Prime (with ads)
Point Blank (1967)
Point Blank stars Lee Marvin as Walker, a dangerous hitman out to get what he is owed after his own friend betrays him during a heist. Filled with editorial decisions that were curious for the time such as quick flashbacks, Point Blank starts off by being a little disorienting and then slowly zooms into focus. One of the first films considered to be of the neo-noir genre, director John Boorman does a captivating job in playing with lighting, as the action jumps from darkness into light and then back.
Why should I watch it?
It is a great revenge flick that clearly inspired violent films after it such as Get Carter, and even without the connections it is good enough on its own. I encourage anyone watching to try to notice trends it may have helped set in the modern action movie.
I enjoyed all of these movies, but Magnolia and My Neighbor Totoro impressed me the most, with Dead Poets Society right afterwards.
Take care and stay safe,
Ish
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