tributary stu

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

  • Movies of the Week #29 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #29 (2024)

    Return of the Living Dead (1985): I’m surprised I’ve only written about this once, given that I watch it every couple of years. It is guaranteed to bring nostalgia joy, memories of a time before my time where campy movies had an authenticity to them that so many modern productions try to recreate if not… Read more


    in

  • Movies of the Week #28 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #28 (2024)

    Bastarden (2023): I’m a simple man, I see Mads Mikkelsen, I click like. Bastarden (The Promised Land) might have a familiar plot, but it is exceptional in its execution. The key to Ludvig Kahlen’s ambition of becoming a reputable man in 18th century Denmark lies in his ability to set up a thriving business in… Read more


    in

  • Ceau, Cinema! (2024): Croissant Protocol

    Ceau, Cinema! (2024): Croissant Protocol

    A film enthusiast’s journey led to an upcoming exhibit in Timişoara featuring Boryana Ilieva’s intricate illustrations of iconic film houses. The exhibit, “Houses in Films,” will be unveiled on July 17th, followed by a talk on creative processes and a screening of “Parasite.” The event promises to enhance viewers’ appreciation for film craftsmanship. Read more


    in

  • Movies of the Week #27 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #27 (2024)

    I Am: Celine Dion (2024): My knowledge of Celine Dion pretty much starts and ends with Titanic. Sure, there are a handful of songs I know, but I’ve never had any particular interest in her as an artist or a person. After last year’s tough, but inspirational tales of chronic illness from Selma Blair and… Read more


    in

  • Movies of the Week #26 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #26 (2024)

    The Bikeriders (2024) directed by Jeff Nichols is a star-studded movie that explores the motorcycle lifestyle and the origin story of a group of criminals. “Easy Rider” comes to mind, but it presents a mostly chill group with a bit of criminal inclination. Jodie Comer’s character leads us through the ups and downs. Inside Out… Read more


    in

  • Movies of the Week #25 (2024)

    Movies of the Week #25 (2024)

    In “Mrs. Buică”, the toxic dynamics of a Romanian couple are explored over the years. “Federer: Twelve Final Days” offers little new insight, while “Wicked Little Letters” lacks excitement despite a talented cast. Hannah Einbinder’s HBO special is a subversive take on comedy. “Avram Iancu Împotriva Imperiului” falls short, offering little beyond patriotism. Read more


    in

  • 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


    in

  • 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


    in

  • 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


    in

  • 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


    in

  • 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


    in

  • 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


    in