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Finch (2021)
Trust, friendship, love
This movie has a layer of messages but the overall theme is love prevails and it comes in every shape or form. The robot is given knowledge to perform a specific function but develops a need for acceptance and belonging, and manifests compassion. Whereas humans end up like senseless (killing) machines in times of crisis - sort of turn into emotionless robots. And nature regenerates, which puts the anthropocentric approach/relevance of humans into question. Makes you wonder about human nature and purpose, that is what this movie is about. It is a philosophical movie that raises more questions than it gives answers. If you approach it that way, you will like it. Plus, if you like dogs, you will enjoy it. Though it is a bit sad but still, hopeful.
The Killing (2011)
A decent remake of the Danish original
Having watched the original Forbrydelsen, the US version of The Killing is a bit underwhelming. This version is good in many ways but not a masterpiece like the Danish original.
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the slow paced, character development focus was followed. The storyline diverges from the original after the first few episodes but the overall tone was preserved. It was almost like a flipped version of the events - same outcomes but different antagonists. So in this sense, the writing was clever - achieved the same but with alternative plotlines. And it was refreshing to see different victims focus in seasons three and four. So I am glad the US version wasn't just a repetition.
However, some things were unbelievable and were ruined in my view. For instance, Holder's obsession with Linden. In the original there is a better, more believable storyline about Sarah's love life. Here we see Holder doing anything for Sarah, which was really unrealistic at times. They did not have such a long history of being partners. Also, the betrayal by a colleague. The Danish original makes this more realistic. While the US version slips here. The character transition was unbelievable. From a Chief to a monster, and nobody noticed all the time? Further, the original brings a higher level of politics in each season, while the US version only stays on local level. And of course, there is the unavoidable American happy ending - the protagonists eventually end up together. Overall, it somehow manages to fill the gaps that the original left open but it also makes Sarah softer.
Nevertheless, this version was pleasant to watch and the acting was pretty good. The prison scenes were a nice novelty and Skarsgard's acting was brilliant. So despite some flaws, it still manages to pull you in and get your full attention.
The Undoing (2020)
Should you have known?
Most viewers classify this show as a whodunnit murder mystery. But it is not. It is a psychological exploration of the self.
Based on the evidence, it was clear who committed the crime but what was lacking was whydunnit, the specific motive. And this is why there were so many speculations about possible suspects, when in fact, one person is on trial. So the question is: is he guilty or not? The real question is actually: why would you acquit him. And this shows how the process of doubt and people's perceptual biases work. The more you think about it, the more complex and even unrealistic solutions come to mind. Is the straightforward explanation not believable, is it too obvious? People seem to think that their first instinct is wrong and they end up unknowing/overlooking what they should have all along. It is one thing to be inquisitive but another to see what you want to see. And most wanted to see someone else commiting the crime. Why?
Bird Box (2018)
See outside the box but with eyes shut
I almost didn't watch this movie because of the bad reviews. I do not like horror movies (the typical ones that only involve cheap thrills); so when I read some reviews - the disappointments that this is not that type of a movie, I was encouraged to watch it. Also, I do not miss a movie with Malkovich, even when he is in a supporting role.
Having said that, I enjoy movies that make you think and this movie is one of those. That is, of course, if you view it symbolically - transcending the sole reliance on what you see on the screen and whether it is plausible. Interestingly, I think that is the key message of the movie. If you take the actual interactions and occurrences more metaphorically and contemplate their meaning, you will enjoy the movie more. The dialogues with Malkovich are brilliant and funny even.
The main themes I took from this movie are:
- People are too reliant on the physical and visual, taking things at face value, which often works more for their detriment than betterment. (Themes also include diversity, gender issues)
- Helping others is a strength, not weakness. These kinds of virtues are becoming essential if humanity is to survive challenges: empathy, altruism, including respect for nature (the birds - which was my personal favorite).
- Motherhood - from denial to overprotection. This was, I think, the key message. "Listen to and do what I say", no questioning, keep your eyes shut. In this case, it was explored from a positive view. Succumbing to external temptations may be dangerous. This especially addresses the dynamics between children and parents. "All I have done is for the children's best interest" is what Sandra's character says at one point (paraphrasing). She went from rejecting the reality of having a child to selflessly caring for other children as her own. Thus, the movie expands also on the concept of family, beyond bloodline. People should be careful who they listen to; and knowing who is doing things in your best interest is not always visible/obvious.
Overall, challenges are transformative and can be overcomed with kindness.
And the present real life pandemic-induced challenge could not have been a better time to watch this movie. Some scenes are scarily resembling present experiences with food shortages, etc. It's like the movie predicted some things... or is it expected human behaviour in such circumstances, so it is not surprising that it happened? In some way, the movie criticizes that too.
Also, after watching Black Mirror, nothing is enough of a horror to me anymore. So, if a classical horror is what you seek, this movie is not for you. If you survived Black Mirror, this one will be a light entertainment. Nevertheless, I found nice messages, though not that mind-bending.
Perhaps, you may find more themes this movie explores, if you keep your mind open, that is, outside the box, while having eyes wide shut. :)
The Current War (2017)
Current manipulation
From a cinematographic experience perspective, I found the movie interestingly done and liked the soundtrack. However, since it is based on true events, it feels like American propaganda (again) as it misrepresents historical occurrences. Specifically, trying to portray Edison's character as compassionate. He was a troubled person, to say the least and while the movie slightly shows that side of him, you can still see that he is being presented to be likeable. Furthermore, I feel like the story focuses too little on Nicola Tesla. After all, it is his inventions that also played a huge role in those upheavals. But just like in reality, the movie neglects and overlooks Tesla's contributions and instead, focuses on Edison and Westinghouse. So, a story related to Tesla's inventions but without Tesla in focus. Well, just like it happened in real life, sadly.
All Is Lost (2013)
Interesting presentation of an eternal topic..
Life is a struggle and it's worth fighting for.
Never give up, because you never know how close you are to achieving the goal.
I believe essentially that's the message from the movie.
For me, it was interesting to see a movie like this for a change, although we've seen few recently with similar concepts. This movie is being compared to with "Gravity" and "Life of Pi", because it depicts struggles for survival. However, each of these movies, including "All is lost", presents the topic on its own symbolic way.
Despite some flaws, this movie has a strong message and that's what's important. In my opinion, it indicates that people usually underestimate the value of life until it's becoming late and it is only when we're facing great challenges we realize what's worth and what's not.
Personally, I enjoyed the movie and the exceptional performance of Redford. I designate this motion picture as a thought-provoking, allegoric movie.