The standard Hollywood biopic gets a much-needed punch up (sorry, couldn't resist) with Michael Mann's signature cool, detached style. Over the course of two and a half hours, Mann tells the story of the rise, fall, and rise again of Muhammad Ali as World Heavyweight Champion.
Will Smith turns his charisma here up to 11 as the titular sports icon, while Mario Van Peebles stands out in the first hour in his role as Malcolm X (Obviously, cinematic portrayals of…
Describing "You and Me", the third feature from legendary Ukrainian director Larisa Shepitko, as "something of a missed opportunity" is a bit like declaring one of a batch of fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies "not as good as the others". If this film were directed by literally anyone else, it would be considered their masterpiece. But since it was directed and co-written by the same woman who made "Wings" and "The Ascent", I came in expecting a bit more.
All of…
"Life is short and miserable. Better enjoy it while you can..."
No matter how bleak "Drifting Clouds" gets for its central couple, Ilona and Lauri, they are never completely bereft of human connection, either with their old coworkers or each other. Aki Kaurismäki's signature droll, deadpan humor is here in spades, surgically and precisely examining the effects neoliberalism, austerity, and "restructuring" had on Finland's working class. Kati Outinen delivers a masterclass in restraint as Ilona, recalling her earlier performance in…
Watched at SIFF Cinema Uptown
Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow give powerful performances in a tense drama that portrays the papal conclave as a "House of Cards"-style power struggle. The strength of the performances papers over some of the campiness of the proceedings, but I'd be surprised if the film doesn't get at least a few Oscar nods for Supporting Actor, especially Tucci or Lithgow. One performance that will stick with viewers is that of newcomer Carlos Diehz…
