Category Archives: Capsule Reviews

4K, Capsule Reviews, Film reviews, Warner Bros

Warner Bros 4K Releases: North by Northwest, Blazing Saddles, and The Terminator

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What’s better than reliving cinematic nostalgia? Continuing the collection of physical media! While we live in a time whenphysical media is limited, Warner Bros 4K Releases offer a combination of films that are surreal and unforgettable. From running from planes in North by Northwest, laughing with cowboys in Blazing Saddles, and seeing Arnold Schwarzenegger play the hero in The Terminator—there is an excitement and an adrenaline rush that lasts for ages. These are classic 4K releases that are worth the time, the money, and the energy to enjoy either for the first time or the tenth.

North by Northwest is a film I have watched four times in my life. The first experience was in a classroom, the second experience was in the cinema (in standard definition), the third was also in the cinema (in print projection), and the fourth was the 4K physical release. The layers of investigative purpose in this movie dive boldly, and still ignite my love for the film. Each cut or new restoration serves to brighten the suspense. The 4k experience makes the chase scenes more exciting as does wondering who is at fault in the film’s many suspenseful moments.

As a die-hard fan of Mel Brooks, Blazing Saddles is one movie that always makes me laugh out loud. It reminds me of a time when comedies were much more successful. Originality back in the day served a greater purpose and had a greater impact. The sound quality makes the laughter heighten the atmosphere which in turn causes the comedy to whirl around in circles leading to entertaining revelations. It is easier and more interesting to experience the humor in the audibles of Blazing Saddles in 4K.

Finally, there is James Cameron, a director who has always navigated his writing and craftsmanship with the skill of a champion. The Terminator is the beginning of a franchise that boils into many layers that demonstrate what filmmaking is all about. The 4K cut is one-of-a-kind. The many aspects of thecinematics and the characters fuel the fire of success in the 4K version. The quote, “I’LL BE BACK,” is the perfect message toremind viewers of the nostalgia in revisiting this classic.  

60th Chicago International Film Festival, Capsule Reviews, Film reviews

Vermiglio Review-60th Chicago International Film Festival

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The film is a subtle portrait of a historic period. The 1940s setting of dynamics is moving continuously. Written and directed by Maura Delpero, Vermiglio is the title of its home. It is a film about a mountainous village (that is secluded) that brings in a breathtaking direction of an array of individuals. It is through education, love, and war. Those many aspects have the presence of quality in Vermiglio.

The film is a relationship with angles of frustration. Its characters (who are in love) are Pietro (played by Giuseppe De Domenico) and Lucia (played by Martina Scrinzi). Pietro is a soldier who is trying to put the war behind him. Lucia is the daughter of a schoolmaster, Cesare (played by Tommaso Ragno). Cesare is one with high expectations. Those who are not motivated make Cesare think otherwise.

With Cesare and his high expectations, approaches to finding love are a subject of curiosity. Quiet pacing (in the film) loops in minds to think deeply. It is a tail of surrealism. Vermiglio dives deep into its odyssey of finding the ability to accept.

The continuity of Lucia and Pietro is what stands as audacious in Vermiglio. The bond of their love is where the writing weaves heavily on (from many angles). Vermiglio is a breathtaking masterpiece. The emotions swarm with curiosity. Three-and-a-half of four stars.

60th Chicago International Film Festival, Capsule Reviews, Film reviews

Toxic Review-60th Chicago International Film Festival

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The teenage era of creating a self-image leads to cinematic misdirection in Toxic. This is a dark and detrimental drama that fueled the 60th Chicago International Film Festival. Teens and beauty which combine in a recipe of courage and self-destruction. Written and directed by Saule Bliuvaite, there is a lot of turmoil among the adolescents in Toxic. The subject ofpopularity provides a constructive setup, and the country ofLithuania provides an interesting setting.  The rural areas lead toboredom. Therefore, the teens aspire to feel a sense of connection to reality, as well as a sense of purpose. Toxic is a title with layers to its context. The poor choices the kids make cause a deranged ride where pleasure and popularity are no easy game.

The film focuses on Marija (played by Vesta Matulyte) who lives with her grandmother in an industrial area. She makes a new friend named Kristina (played by Leva Rupeikaite) who is stubborn, rebellious, and does what she can to feel cool. Marija learns from Kristina how to be a rebel. They both have dreams of becoming fashion models, so they enroll in a modeling school. Their behaviors are intertwined—drugs, sex, partying, and so much more. Their focus on being “cool” causes them to hit some harsh plateaus which portray teenage angst and disconnect. Bliuvaite’s direction results in an international sensation created through showcasing a mixture of risky behaviors and associated thrills. This film is a portrait of howyouthful generations still have much to learn. Four out of four stars for Toxic.