tributary stu

Movie micro-reviews and other stuff. A tributary to the big screen.

  • Movies of the Week #1 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #1 (2024)

    “Lost in America” (1985) delves into the complexities of relationships and the allure of adventure, while “This is the End” (2013) offers a refreshing take on doomsday movies with its meta-humour and memorable finale. “Time Bomb Y2K” (2023) captures the essence of the Y2K crisis through archival footage, and “Fast Charlie” (2023) delivers an entertaining… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #52 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #52 (2023)

    This summary covers various film reviews. “Un héros très discret” is praised for its storytelling and Mathieu Kassovitz’s performance, “The Hunger Games” prequel receives mixed feedback, “Thanksgiving” is noted for its gore and satire, “The Creator” is criticized for lacking nuance and a satisfying finale, and “Next Goal Wins” is described as lighthearted but unimaginative. Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #51 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #51 (2023)

    The Christmas movie landscape of 2022-2023 presents a mixed bag of festive films, each with its own charm and shortcomings. “This is Christmas” stands out with a stellar cast including Timothy Spall and Alfred Enoch, delivering an uplifting story about commuters organizing a Christmas party, despite its cheesy moments. “Your Christmas or Mine” features Asa… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #50 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #50 (2023)

    Man with a Movie Camera (1929): I picked this up for no clear reason whatsoever and with just as little background knowledge. Dziga Vertov’s “urban life” cinematic diary is amazing. Without a narrative, it just shows instances of the day to day, but with such dynamic vibrancy that the movie feels way ahead of its… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #49 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #49 (2023)

    The Holdovers (2023): After the dud that was Downsizing, a rare blip in Alexander Payne’s illustrious directorial career, he returns with one of his best movies yet. Set in the magical 70s (seriously, any movie set in the 70s and 80s is basically playing the game with cheat mode on), Paul Giamatti plays a grumpy… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #48 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #48 (2023)

    “De ce mă cheamă Nora când cerul meu e senin” delves into the life of Romanian cultural icon Nora Iuga, paralleling the documentary “Iris” in its exploration of an artist’s journey against historical backdrops. It offers a nuanced portrayal of Nora, blending her artistic legacy with personal stories. “Scrapper” presents a hopeful father-daughter dynamic, with… Read more


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  • Review: De ce mă cheamă Nora când cerul meu e senin (2023)

    Review: De ce mă cheamă Nora când cerul meu e senin (2023)

    The documentary “Nora” is a tribute to Nora Iuga, a prolific figure in Romanian literature. With a unique approach, Carla Teaha’s film offers an intimate portrayal of Iuga’s life and work, capturing her resilient spirit and contributions to the literary world. Despite struggling in rhythm, the film beautifully encapsulates the nuances of Nora Iuga’s life… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #47 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #47 (2023)

    Discover a captivating mix of drama, music, and storytelling in 2023’s cinematic lineup. “Flora and Son” by John Carney is a heartfelt exploration of the bond between a mother and son through music, featuring Eve Hewson and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The film’s intimate setting and bittersweet narrative echo Carney’s signature style, offering a cozy, uplifting experience.… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #46 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #46 (2023)

    Explore a diverse range of cinematic experiences in 2023’s intriguing film lineup. “Do Not Expect Too Much Of the End of the World” by Radu Jude delves into the complexities of modern life through Angela’s dual existence as a weary worker and her bold social media alter-ego “Bobitza.” This film captivates with its unique narrative… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #45 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #45 (2023)

    Dive into the depths of William Friedkin’s cinematic journey through a series of insightful documentaries. “Leap of Faith: William Friedkin on The Exorcist (2019)” offers a lyrical exploration of Friedkin’s approach to the iconic film, blending personal anecdotes with cinematic insight. In “Conversation with Fritz Lang (1975),” Friedkin engages with the legendary director, discussing film’s… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #44 (2023)

    Movies of the Week #44 (2023)

    Unearth the underrated gems in William Friedkin’s diverse filmography. Venture into the chilling courtroom drama of “Rampage (1987),” where sinister acts meet legal dissection. Transition to the corruption-laced courts in “Blue Chips (1994),” where basketball and integrity clash amidst a star-studded cast. Dance back to the 1920s with “The Night They Raided Minsky’s (1968),” where… Read more


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  • Review: Do Not Expect Too Much Of the End of the World (2023)

    Review: Do Not Expect Too Much Of the End of the World (2023)

    Radu Jude’s ‘The End of the World’ masterfully balances satire with poignant societal critique. Dive into a cinematic world where contrasts reign, from the lead character’s dual life to the stark juxtaposition of past and present narratives. A film that challenges conventions while captivating audiences. Read more


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