A good solid day of films today. Nothing new that will make the current favorites and top lists, but certainly worth a look and checking out for the most part. Came across some chatters in one screening today, and despite the "Excuse me, can you please talk after the film" and "Shhh", improvements were temporary until I finally learned to tune it out. You wouldn't talk during a Hollywood movie, so please don't talk at an art house movie (we don't need to hear your commentary). So after a texter and some chatters, maybe a snorer will be next :P
CIRCUMSTANCE (France/Iran)
Touted as a forbidden love affair set in a repressive society such as Iran, the film leans more towards repression and conformity where a lesbian affair is more entrenched with the rest of the issues than being at the forefront. The film has a lot of hype being an Audience Award winner at Sundance and set for a theatrical release, which sadly raises high expectations. This is a good film to watch but it feels a little disjointed at times if you don't read further into the subtlety of what is not shown. The director does a wonderful job creating a feeling of sensuality in the love scenes as well as tenderness, but the chemistry between the leads falls just shy of a passionate love, coming across more of something between possible kindred spirits.
3.5/5 this film currently is not scheduled again for VIFF
I WISH (Japan)
Director Kore-eda Hirokazu follows up Air Doll (VIFF 2009) with this innocent and sweet whimsical tale of several children wanting to make a wish at a special moment - when two trains pass each other. With the opening of new bullet train lands, brothers Koichi and Ryu reunite (following their parents' separation) and gather their friends for this moment. Hirokazu's camera is lowered to add to the visual appeal of the film, from a child's viewpoint. It is humourous as only children can be in their manner and words and a delight to watch. The set up does take awhile though in order to introduce all the children, the reason for their wishes and the planning, so give it some time and you should find this enjoyable. A playful soundtrack adds to the piece.
3.75/5 plays October 5th at 9pm
A SIMPLE LIFE (Hong Kong)
Ann Hui's latest drama stars Andy Lau and Deannie Yip as a young master and his servant. Yip plays Ah Tao who has worked for Roger's (Lau) family for 60 years when a stroke puts her in the hospital and then a senior home. What unfolds is a beautiful story about an elderly lady and her once young charge who share a beautiful relationship of caring and love. Humorous and bittersweet, this is based on producer Roger Lee's relationship with his family maid. For those cantonese speakers, read the subtitles, you may find it funnier than if you just listened to the dialogue. With numerous cameos from other prominent members of the Hong Kong film community.
4/5 plays Monday October 3rd at 330pm. This film is rush only so if you don't have a ticket yet, line up early to see if you can get a ticket.
HEADSHOT (Thailand/France)
Described by one of the producers as a crime noir movie, it's one thing to keep in mind as you watch this film. The other is that there are two timelines happening. Not a thriller so don't go in expecting high pace with lots of bloody violence. Instead you'll find a slower paced film with bursts of gunfire as the cop turned hitman is really just looking for peace and his purpose in life. Not many boring moments as you'll be trying to figure things out and putting the timelines together. The print is a little on the dark side (but it looks better than when it premiered at TIFF), but it adds to the ambience and tone of the film. What is justice and what defines good vs evil?
3.75/5 plays Friday October 7th at 1245pm
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