Favorite films

Recent reviews

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  Bay of Angels 1963

  ★★★½ Watched 02 Jan 2025 4

  It was nice to see the French Riviera; from Nice to Montecarlo.

  I think of Cannes too. 

  Jackie’s statement of gambling being her religion was thought-provoking; more so Jean’s comparison of the immoral. His fear of a sensible life—one without risks and surprises—is believable.

  And I wouldn’t necessarily call it perversion, but observing the ways in which gambling can enthrall the common man and what people are willing to part with in turn, proved to be insightful. 

  I’m uncertain how…

• 

  The Cook 1918

  Watched 01 Jan 2025 1

  Fatty Arbuckle’s hot soup dispenser is a marvel of modern plumbing that would make most soda fountains envious—

  I find the physical humor of “The Cook” to be incredible, entertaining, and immensely complicated!

  Reading J.P. Lebel’s profile of Buster Keaton adds context and makes me appreciative of the vaudeville influences that carry over.

  And Keaton’s parodied dance, his abruptness and impassivity! The labors of the ensemble—goofs, goon, and pooch—make for a grand spectacle; it makes every second worthwhile.

  And as…

Popular reviews

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  Dial M for Murder 1954

  ★★★ Watched 16 Nov 2023 3

  This review may contain spoilers. I can handle the truth.

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  Puparia 2020

  ★★★★ Watched 14 Nov 2023

  “Puparia” strings along its viewers with a vivid charm, propelled further by the music of Steve Reich. Crisp textures lend themselves to the production’s complete reliance on traditional hand-drawings. Each frame boasts a remarkable fluidity and detail without coming across as complicated or overcrowded. The feat appears unbelievable—but only if you discount how the three-year-long effort is skillfully condensed into three minutes. And in some ways, it almost presents itself in the way I’d envision animated adaptions of Japanese comics…