Once I had those Oscar nominations in my hot little hands, I thought for sure that I would be loading up on the Oscar Run-viewing this week. I had no idea that my heavier-than-usual work commitments and an unexpected tumble and re-injury would change my entertainment plans. But it is a new week and I am hopeful that with a little patience and rest, my movie dance card will be filled up once more. I also expect the next Monday blog will include some Oscar nominees in the bunch, but for now, here are this week’s flicks. As always, thanks for reading. ~ Chris K.
16. Black Mirror: Bandersnatch
Drama, Sci-Fi (2018)
Fionn Whitehead, Craig Parkinson
This is probably the most difficult mini-review to write that I’ll be faced with because what can I say without giving away the unique aspect of this film? If you haven’t heard about the toy surprise in this box of Cracker Jacks yet, congratulations. I’m certainly not going to be the one to change that for you. Being the huge BLACK MIRROR fan that I am, I went into this one with fairly high expectations and I can honestly say, I was not disappointed. Never one to be a spoiler, I will tell you this: BANDERSNATCH is unlike any other film you will see. For that, I tip my virtual hat to the creators of the story and particularly the filmmaking avenues they’ve chosen to take. The audience meets a young man who appears to lack direction and ambition, but there is one passion he has – video games, both playing them and making them himself. As we follow his adventure exploring a potential dream job opportunity, we soon learn there is more to his story than meets the eye. I anticipate I’ll be going back to watch this one again (and maybe again and again) but for now, upon one viewing, I say give this one a shot and be ready for anything, because trust me: you will get plenty of that.
Score: 87
17. I Feel Pretty
Comedy (2018)
Amy Schumer, Michelle Williams
Unlike the last film I watched, I went into this one with modest expectations, and I think that allowed me to enjoy some of the best aspects of what is otherwise an average comedy. Schumer has a natural likability even when she’s being unlikable in some scenes. She gives an earnest and often vulnerable performance that I appreciated. At times, the film tries to be loftier in its mission than it probably has the right to be but overall, there is some charm to it. We meet a young woman Renee Bennett with low self-esteem who struggles to find the best in herself and after an accident, is suddenly struck by her own beauty and greatness the next time she sees herself in a mirror. As we watch her develop new relationships and pursue career goals, we also see how this new self-perception changes her old relationships and it doesn’t always bring out the prettiest side in this ‘new and improved’ Renee.
I wouldn’t say I loved this film, but I definitely liked it more than I thought I would. I enjoyed Michelle Williams as the high-profile cosmetic company mogul. I appreciate how Williams always loses her identity and sinks her teeth into every role she plays. Such an underrated actor. Rory Scovel was also a refreshing new presence onscreen as Ethan. So I say see it for its charming performances and hits, and be kind where it misses, and you’ll be in line with the overall message of the film to accept ourselves – warts and all.
Score: 83
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