tributary stu

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

  • Eugene Buică’s Family Tale: A Raw and Unflinching Documentary | Review

    Eugene Buică’s Family Tale: A Raw and Unflinching Documentary | Review

    The documentary chronicles the complex dynamics within Eugene Buică’s family over several years, capturing raw, unfiltered moments. It portrays the unvarnished reality of family discord, with Mr. and Mrs. Buică’s turbulent relationship at its core. The film delves into the moral ambiguity of human nature, presenting an unapologetic and discomforting portrayal of flawed characters and… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #24 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #24 (2024)

    Netflix’s “How to Rob a Bank” tells the story of Scott Scurlock, a notorious bank robber. While it introduces Scurlock in an interestingly unpredictable way, the film fails to fully explore the complex effects of crime. “Am I OK?” offers a poignant yet optimistic depiction of friendship amidst life changes. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die”… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #23 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #23 (2024)

    “Tangerine” (2015) and “Umberto D.” (1952) portray solitude and sacrifice, garnering critical acclaim. “Frequently Asked Questions About Time Travel” (2009) delivers a warm narrative despite flaws. “Bad Boys” (1995) falls short due to a convoluted plot, contrasting with the promising but lackluster “Boy Kills World” (2024). Each film has distinct qualities and shortcomings. Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #22 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #22 (2024)

    Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024): It was always going to be a challenge to compare favorably to what is a near perfect movie (i.e. Fury Road). George Miller returns to his universe with pomp and circumstance, but in spite of moments of inspiration and grandeur, it lacks the sheer electric energy of Fury Road. Read more


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  • Sisi & Ich: A Feminist Interpretation of Empress Elisabeth of Austria | Review

    Sisi & Ich: A Feminist Interpretation of Empress Elisabeth of Austria | Review

    The film “Sisi & Ich” offers a different take on Empress Elisabeth of Austria, exploring her later years and her relationship with her lady-in-waiting. While it may not reach the same level as “Corsage,” it captivates with a strong feminist perspective. The captivating dynamic between the central characters prompts introspection on privilege and loyalty. Despite… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #21 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #21 (2024)

    The content covers several movie reviews, with a mixture of positive and negative sentiments. “Radio Days” is praised for its warmth but not entirely captivating. “Returning to Monkey Island” is appreciated by a fan but could have appealed more to a wider audience. “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is enjoyable but falls short… Read more


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  • În Inima Naționalei: A Glimpse into Romania’s Football Revival | Documentary Review

    În Inima Naționalei: A Glimpse into Romania’s Football Revival | Documentary Review

    The proliferation of sports documentaries has diluted their value, with many lacking originality and substance. “În Inima Naționalei” chronicles Romania’s national team’s journey to Euro 2024. While it captures the players’ personalities and the challenge of living up to famous footballing fathers, it fails to offer a compelling emotional core. Despite its competent execution, the… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #20 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #20 (2024)

    A tennis-themed movie, “Challengers (2024),” directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Josh O’Connor, Zendaya, and Mike Faist, presents an ambiguous love triangle. “The Last Stop in Yuma County (2023)” is a Western heist film with a nostalgic vibe, and “The Fall Guy (2024)” offers fun and spectacular action starring Emily Blunt and Ryan Gosling. “Roland… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #19 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #19 (2024)

    Late Night with the Devil (2023) is a stylish film that explores the golden age of possession and its relation to consumerism and media brainwashing. Buzzard (2014) follows Marty Jackitansky’s unconventional life and finds purpose in his character’s purposelessness. Funny Pages (2022) depicts the fringes of society through a young cartoonist’s story, and You’ll Never… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #18 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #18 (2024)

    The Iron Claw (2023) is a lengthy biopic about the van Erich wrestling family, balancing tragedy and artistry. Vermines (2023) is a harrowing spider horror with social commentary. Vicious Fun (2020) is a solid slasher film, though playing it safe. Pinball (2022) features a strong start but loses impact. Love Lies Bleeding (2024) starts strong… Read more


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  • Movies of the Week #17 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #17 (2024)

    Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010): I’m surprised this is only the second (okay, third) time I’m writing about the Pilgrim. Judging by my boast of having watched it six or seven times, seven years and seven evil exes ago, this means I must have gone above the single digits since. What I have noticed Read more


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  • Review: Nasty (2024)

    Review: Nasty (2024)

    The documentary “Nasty” captures the eccentric and charming nature of tennis legend Ilie Năstase. While it lacks depth in exploring his background and societal impact, the film offers entertaining insights from tennis luminaries. However, its structure and reliance on diverse talking heads hinder a cohesive narrative. Despite its shortcomings, “Nasty” portrays Năstase’s charisma compellingly, making… Read more


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