Sam Arjes

Sam Arjes Patron

Favorite films

  • The Royal Tenenbaums
  • No Country for Old Men
  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
  • E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

Recent activity

All
  • The Harder They Fall

  • Ain't Them Bodies Saints

  • Perfect Days

  • Moana 2

Recent reviews

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  • The Harder They Fall

    The Harder They Fall

    Thoroughly enjoyed this! Plenty of nodding and “homage-ing” to films past, but also some new tricks and “wow” moments that made it feel fresh. Capped by an elite soundtrack (with contributions from Samuel himself, no less). Suffice it to say, a VERY impressive feature film debut.

  • Perfect Days

    Perfect Days

    What a thoughtful and beautifully rendered film! Simple on its surface, but actually quite layered. With almost no dialogue, we learn exactly who Hirayama is, what he likes and how he views the world. And there are some important takeaways from observing these outwardly mundane, inwardly meaningful moments.

    To anyone who might find this film “too slow”, “nothing happens” or it “takes too long to get anywhere”, I would say: this film is actually for you. Just let it take its…

Popular reviews

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  • The Straight Story

    The Straight Story

    On its surface, this may seem like the least “Lynchian” of Lynch’s films. But it actually feels Incredibly Lynch-like, when you know what he believed in, what he stood for, and what he both preached and practiced in his personal and public life: kindness and humanity. 

    We love and miss you, David.

  • The Conversation

    The Conversation

    Gene Hackman In Memoriam 💔

    Goddamn, what a stunner! Simmers and simmers until the pot finally boils over. 

    A very subdued performance by Hackman that I’m not used to seeing—he’s usually so vocal and boisterous. This time he was quiet and nuanced and we get to see his emotions play out with his eyes and face only for most of the film. (And boy does he cook with his looks!)

    Topped off with a flawless score and a chilling, haunting final shot… what a masterpiece. 

    Cinema sommelier recommendation:
    This would pair perfectly with De Palma’s Blow-Out for a “Deft Handling of Recording Equipment” double feature.