At The Movies – September 2010
**** Superb *** Very Good ** Good * Mediocre – Forget it
Do Not Miss These.
The Tree (l’Arbre) **** When the husband and father of a large, happy family dies suddenly at the base of a huge tree adjoining their home, the tree becomes a symbol of their love and their memory of him. Based in northern Australia, this film by French director Julie Bertuccelli (who made the sublime Since Otar Left and has been assistant director to such greats as K. Kieslowski and Bertrand Tavernier) stars the always moving Charlotte Gainsbourg as the widow, and a slew of brilliant little actors as the children. It’s a must-see, for its depth, simplicity and honest look at love, fidelity and family. It will stay with you for quite awhile.
Toy Story 3 ***1/2 Pixar never fails to enchant the audience with their amazing animation, and they don’t miss this time, when it’s the moment to say goodbye to those boisterous toys that have been keeping Andy company throughout his childhood. But now he’s going off to college and they can’t imagine what will happen to them. This is about friendship, loyalty and growing up, and will have you laughing at Buzz Lightyear’s Spanish interlude yet will surely also bring a tear to your eye. I bet on it.
Benda Bilili ***1/2 (vo French) Remember Wim Wenders’ Buena Vista Social Club from Cuba? Well this is an African version of that joyous celebration of the power of music to overcome misery. Here is a group of destitute, handicapped musicians – most of them in makeshift wheelchairs – in Kinshasa, Congo, who live for making music and becoming famous, someday. Thanks to Renaud Barret and Florent de la Tullaye, the directors of this astounding documentary, the group records their first album and goes on a European tour. They even had the Cannes film festival rocking this year. With this film, they can now reach the world through their contagious music and enthusiasm. Run to it!
Lola ***1/2 (vo Philippine-Tagalog) Terribly tragic and so real, here is a tale of two Filipina grandmothers (Lolas) seeking justice, one whose grandson has been killed for his cellphone, and the other whose grandson was the killer. This excellent social commentary, done in almost documentary style by director Brillante Mendoza, is not so much about crime as about the social, economic and cultural structure of that country. The love of family and respect for elders is evident throughout as is the poverty, but also the resilience of these good people. Awe-inspiring.
Tamara Drewe *** Sharp wit, well-drawn characters (from Posy Simmonds’ illustrated novel), perfect casting and acting, and of course the inimitable touch of Stephen Frears’ direction (My Beautiful Laundrette, Dangerous Liaisons, The Queen) make for joyous entertainment, as the British can do so well. In a small English hamlet, a peaceful writer’s retreat is turned on its head when a transformed and unrestrained Tamara comes back to town. Literary gatherings, teenage crushes, silly dog chasing cows, rock stars and infidelity are on the menu in this delightful, satisfying yarn.
The Switch *** Here’s a rarity – a convincing romantic comedy – so it’s definitely in the Unmissables section. Jennifer Aniston and an excellent Jason Bateman have real chemistry, though they’re only friends. She wants to have a baby by artificial insemination; he’s aghast. They meet again years later and they are now a threesome. The directing duo of Josh Gordon and Will Speck ensures crisp, refreshing dialogue and creates good vibes. The little kid will steal your heart and you’ll leave with a big smile on your face. What more would you want?
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