January 2013

Movie Review: Beasts of the Southern Wild

Described as a fantasy drama film, Beasts of the Southern Wild tells the story of a father and daughter fighting for survival in a Southern Louisiana bayou called the “Bathtub”. The protagonist is six year old Hushpuppy, a wide-eyed girl abandoned by her mother who is raised by her short-tempered father nicknamed Whip, who struggles with a life-threatening illness. Before a storm arrives and destroys the Bathtub, Hushpuppy learns of the Aurochs, ancient mythical creatures trapped inside melting ice caps. As the film progresses, the “beasts” are freed from the ice which has encapsulated them.

This film is carried by its two leads: daughter Hushpuppy and father Whip, both of whom deliver incredible performances in this low-budget epic. Their relationship is tenuous at best but the 9-year old protagonist brilliantly communicates the complex character, and at the same time became the youngest ever Academy Award nominee for Best Actress.

Watching this film I felt it was truly art, unlike so many formulaic movies that follow in the well-traveled footsteps of others. It packs a strong emotional punch, and the fantasy element of the Aurochs lends this movie an imaginative flair which reminded me of Where the Wild Things Are. Abstract and beautiful like a Björk music video in feature film format.

Rating:

Official Trailer:

Movie Review: Flight

This 2012 film starring Denzel Washington follows an airline pilot struggling to take control of his life. A substance abuser for decades, he nonchalantly uses drugs and alcohol, even as he pilots airliners across the country. When he disaster strikes, can he trust on his instinct to carry him through the turbulence?

This is the best character that I’ve seen Denzel Washington play since he was Alonzo in Training Day. Captain “Whip” Whittaker in Flight is a deep, convincing character who is believable throughout the films twists and turns. I don’t believe that Washington’s performance is matched by his co-star Kelly Reilly, but John Goodman and Don Cheadle are as good as you expect them to be.

This is a character driven film and Denzel Washington pulls it off. Some of the sequences feel drawn out, but the conclusion is powerful and will make you think. The film has one action sequence which is breathtaking. Worth watching.

Rating: