Tuesday 19 May 2020

Alternate Best Actor 2014: Oscar Isaac in A Most Violent Year

Oscar Isaac did not receive an Oscar nomination, despite winning NBR, for portraying Abel Morales in A Most Violent Year.

A Most Violent Year follows a businessman attempting to secure a life changing deal for his gas company.

I think the early word on the film, along with its name, perhaps was to the film's detriment in terms of overall recognition in its year. This as it suggested a different film, as the film is a low key study of one man's morality, than a wide scope crime drama you might have expected from its catching name and the comparisons to The Godfather. Now in this we have a very atypical character for leading such a morality tale, and in that Oscar Isaac has a unique challenge. So often in the case of morality in a crime film, it is upon the person who has already gone through corruption or is actively taking part of it, either by will or by circumstance like Michael Corleone in The Godfather. A character in that Isaac's Morales was compared to, it certainly helps with their similar appearance, but I don't believe that quite covers the man that is Morales. This is as Morales's role within this story is a unique one, in that while he's not a straight forward good man within corruption, by way of being a legal force, he is not a corrupted man within corruption. This is as he is trying to make it within the corrupt world of the gas works in NYC, he has a criminal lawyer (Albert Brooks) and a wife (Jessica Chastain) whose family are local criminals. The story is of the man trying to not be this, while existing strictly in that world, almost trying to play the game, but with a hand tied behind his back. Isaac's performance then is one that is to bring to life this alternative conflict, that unfolds not quite in the expected way for such a story.

Now on the surface the similarities to Al Pacino as Michael are easy enough to name. This is where one can easily praise Isaac's performance where he delivers that needed sort of internalized charisma for the part of Abel. He's not a man who wields his power, or attempted power, through broad strokes, but rather through almost this force of will. Isaac's delivers that as his presence offers that sort of sense in one's own conviction that empowers him in some way. Isaac captures this specific kind of control in his performance that grants the right sense of Abel's awareness of what he must do, but also the methods he believes he must take to do that. There are earlier moments within the narrative where Abel explains his plans. This is where Isaac's performance conveys well this clear sense of his purpose. This in calm yet determined voice, and eyes that are fiery with a controlled but very real ambition. Isaac creating the sense of a man who has built upon his intelligence within his field, and is working his way towards a kind of control of his destiny. Isaac's performance crafts the sense of the ambition that then grants the man that certain strength, and in turn a remarkable distinct type of charisma. This as Isaac exudes a man of power, even as we open the film we find someone who is quickly struggling to maintain this power, as he doesn't quite have the money to buy an essential property for his plans, and is dealing with the constant theft of his trucks along with the physical harassment of his employees.

Isaac's performance then becomes one that reveals two burdens within it. The first the more obvious and essentially surface one of the exasperation of his state. This as every time it seems he solves one problem two more come up, not due to his own excess or incompetence, but rather the actions of others. Isaac's performance wears this effectively within the man of just a state of growing frustration. Again though Isaac balancing that with the sense of the man's strength as we don't see it overwhelm him in this sense, rather grants a greater sense of perseverance within the man. This as one deal goes poorly for him, Isaac brings the same determination in speaking within the meeting for the next of a man who will finds his success through the forces against him. The second less so that being within the idea of morality, particularly how it exists for him within his world both for his business and in his personal life. Isaac in this shows a good man, but a man who basically has risen around corruption. This in his earlier moments with the other gas owners, or his own lawyer. Isaac's eyes convey a sense of the knowledge of the man as it is with careful suspicion of their actions. When he himself stands against a DA focusing upon seemingly randomly his company, Isaac's portrayal of Abel's denials of any wrongdoing within his company, is that of that same kind of conviction. Isaac importantly grants no sense of a lingering doubt within himself, rather shows someone who fully is aware that he knows how he has risen not through the corruption that he has been so closely near.

This comes to life even greater though within the side story of one of his workers, Julian (Elyes Gabel), becomes increasingly hostile after becoming wanted by the police for having attempted to defend himself in a robbery through the use of a gun. Isaac's scenes within Julian and his wife, are brilliantly performed this as he grants an essential warmth and empathy within Abel. This as even as he tries to get the man to turn himself into the police, that low key warmth Isaac delivers is again with certainty that he believes this will help the man. There is importantly no sense of selfishness within this, as Isaac instead portrays the man believing he is leading the man to some help after his actions have threatened both their livelihoods. Of course one of the most important complications is in his relationship with his wife. This is where Isaac crafts some very careful chemistry with Chastain, that grants a strong sense of their relationship even though we don't really delve within the details all that closely. Isaac conveys the obvious attraction, if tempered by years of marriage, but at the same time gives us the sense of the underlying frustration at the ease in which his wife displays a more duplicitous side. This alluding to her family history, which I love how Isaac makes this a given in his performance, with almost side eye glances that suggest a knowing man just slightly watching out for the worst tendencies he knows his wife has, without hating her for it.

What the film then becomes is basically a testing of the attempt of Abel to try to do what is right no matter how much the world around him encourages him to do wrong for the purposes of selfishness. Isaac is excellent in the way he finds so much nuance within this struggle, which is never spelled out directly however is found again within his subtle work. This as we see the man who refuses to give in to just violence as even when he tracks down one of the thieves and interrogates him. Isaac is outstanding in this interrogation scene. This as he delivers the intensity of a man who could kill given that sense of determination, however in his verbal reaction of releasing that anger from his frustrations is brilliantly performed. This in showing a man who wants to do the right thing in that release, fighting against the negative urge. Even in this time though we still see the strength of the man when within righteousness when he successfully earns some of his money back from one of his competitors. Isaac owns the scene brilliantly in just exuding that internalized power greater than ever, with the right sense of threat within his words, but still that calm that embodies within itself this unquestioned strength. He seems even more tested as he finds he has one source of income from his wife, from her secretly skimming off the top from Morales's company. Isaac is great though in this being the biggest break as he yells as a man who has put up with this behavior for far too long, and this outrage very much earned from his wife often questionable moral character. Isaac reveals those years in this moment that is of surprise at the sort of betrayal but in his eyes that of also that still knowing as something he knew was possible in his wife. The final sort of challenge comes as Morales has successful made his deal by using the money, really with no alternate option for those funds or for himself, but Julian reappears with gun. Julian though only in a distraught depression where he quickly kills himself seemingly both depressed and jealous towards Morales's success. Isaac's reaction in the moment is perfection as he shows the horror of the moment in his understated reaction still. Isaac finds within though not a shame exactly, rather a disappointment again against the corruption and violence that lead to the act, though he himself was not truly guilty of it. This is an impressive work from Isaac, as was the way for him in his remarkable quartet of performances from 2013-2015, hopefully he'll return to this quality sometime soon. Nonetheless this stands as one of his great performances. This in granting a powerful portrait of an atypical character in a moral dilemma. This as a man attempting, despite all odds, to do what he believes is right in a world filled with wrongs.

114 comments:

Lucas Saavedra said...

Louis: Your thoughts on Tropic Thunder as a movie?
And your ratings and thoughts on the cast, apart from RDJ, Cruise and McConaughey?

Mitchell Murray said...

1) Kapoor
2) Stevens
3) Tatum
4) Hardy
5) Hawke

1) Isaac
2) Gulpilil
3) Cruise
4) Renner
5) Eisenberg

I haven't seen this film in years, but I do remember Isaac being very effective, and the performance being a rather unique one within its genre.

I also remember Chastain's performance being fairly good; I wasn't as enraptured by her as some reviewers we're, but in retrospect, I would've preferred her being nominated over Arquette, Streep and Knightley.

Calvin Law said...

Brilliant performance. The more I think about it, he could probably make my top 5. It’s a shame the performance was so overlooked due to its quiet nature.

Robert MacFarlane said...

My (somewhat isolated) love for this movie and performance is well-documented on this blog, so you can assume I’m ecstatic to finally see him reviewed and retaining his five.

Emi Grant said...

A Most Violent Year in general was quite the unexpected surprise when I first got to it. Certainly remember appreciating quite a bit, but it has been a long time since watched it. I do remember Isaac leaving a great impression. Need to get back to it.

1. Isaac
2. Gulpilil
3. Renner
4. Cruise
5. Eisenberg

1. Tatum
2. Hardy
3. Kapoor
4. Stevens
5. Hawke

GM said...

1. Gulpilil
2. Isaac
3. Renner
4. Cruise
5. Eisenberg

1. Hardy
2. Tatum
3. Stevens
4. Kapoor
5. Hawke

Anonymous said...

Louis: your top 5 jake gyllenhaal worst acting moments

Luke Higham said...

I agree wholeheartedly. Looking forward to Tatum next.
Do talk about 22 Jump Street in his review.

Anonymous said...

Louis: your top twenty George C. Scott acting moments?

Mitchell Murray said...

Well guys, I finally watched "Boogie Nights" today and really, really liked it. It's a surprising film in a lot of ways, not only because its so stylistically different from PTA's other work, but also due to the legitimate thoughtfulness that went into the subject matter. Many movies with its premise might've been pure exploitation, but Anderson actually handles the story with a certain tastefulness. This is mainly by exploring the reasons why people might get into the industry, showing the whole business in the right shades of grey, and acknowledging it's detrimental effect on some people via Diggler's narrative arc. Beyond that, however, the movie is also just impressive on a technical scale, as there's some strong music and editing throughout, and of course it's great ensemble cast. So yah....I'm definitely a fan of the picture.

Wahlberg - 4.5 (His best performance without question!)
Reynolds - 4.5
Moore - 4
Reilly - 4
Cheadle - 4
Hoffman - 3.5
Macy - 3.5
Graham - 3
Hall - 3
Guzman - 3
Molina - 3

Aidan Pittman said...

Louis: Your cast/director for a 1940s version of Chinatown?

Bryan L. said...

Aidan: He gave that version in the Results page for Alternate Best Actor 1976.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Do you have any intention to watch Zack Snyder's Justice League cut.

Robert MacFarlane said...

Well it just goes to show that four straight years of harassment campaigns, hour(s) long YouTube tantrums, review bombing, and just being the worst possible subsection of fandom possible can really pay off.

I genuinely, truly hope the Snyder Cut is unwatchable to even those little shits. I’m livid. I watched the assholes throw hissy fits practically every day, and they’re getting rewarded for four years of horrible behavior. I’m just so done.

Aidan Pittman said...

Bryan: Man, I've been striking out lately!

Robert: Yeah, it's pretty disappointing to see corporations giving into the masses, even when they clearly don't deserve it. If anything it's an unfortunate sign of what matters to them the most.

Michael McCarthy said...

Since it seems likely that the next review will be Tatum in Foxcatcher, is there any chance of an upgrade for Ruffalo? He’s always been my favorite of the cast, and since 2014 he’s stayed with me the most out of any supporting performance from 2014.

Louis Morgan said...

Lucas:

For me it's a movie with funny moments, but isn't great overall. It has great moments, but again not great overall. This comes a bit into the common error which is the action itself isn't funny, which seems odd as that is where cinematic comedy started with silent films, but again that is the case making the film lose its way a bit when that take over. Still there's a lot to be enjoyed there, particularly Downey, Cruise and the moral choice between airplane/Tivo for a preview of the McConaissance. Not every bit work, particularly Jack Black's character, but there is much to enjoy still.

Stiller - (Stiller has a certain limitation in that he's not convincing as this Stallone, Willis or Schwarzenegger sort of guy. His sort of reliable comic moments though do work in his favor, particularly when doing random intensity particularly in his Panda murder and especially the "who are you" off with Downey which is a highlight within the film.)

Nolte - (Delivers is straight, and effectively so both as the false grizzled guy, and then later a slightly competent man in the action. I will say though they probably don't do enough with him particularly after the reveal.)

Baruchel - (It's easy to not stomach a lot of the Baruchel. He's okay here though in a slight straight manish part, if wholly overshadowed.)

McBride - (His usual shtick, works well enough for a pyromaniac however.)

Jackson - (I don't think he hits sort of the comic beats as well as he really could. In that he largely exists to allow Downey to exist and is overshadowed in this process. I would say though a more talented comedian likely could've stood better ground, he mostly just sort of yells.)

Black - (Just a thankless part really in the scheme, as the drug addict shtick is the worst part of the film, and gets tiresome fast. Black tries to sell it, but it just isn't really worth selling.)

Calvin:

That scene from Paths of Glory is a great one, in it establishes early the carefully though affable cold blooded nature of Menjou, along with the sort false humanity early on with MacCready claiming about the concerns for his men when really just caring about himself, that establishes well it as a contrast to the later cathartic scene of Dax showing a true humanity.

Anonymous:

Hmmm, think I'll avoid that.

Anonymous:

Feel I've done that somewhere, I'll have to look.

Luke:

I mean morbid curiosity is a thing, a problem I have at times. I will say there is no justification in the behavior shown regarding it however, I mean Batman v Superman was the Snyder cut and we all know how that turned out...

Of course Snyder fans in general have a very odd behavior, behavior that I wouldn't deem appropriate for even the likes of an Akira Kurosawa.

Michael:

Not out of the question.

Louis Morgan said...

Calvin:

Not sure about Da 5 Bloods trailer, I mean given the current situation, I hope every film we do get is amazing, so I hope its amazing. It typically doesn't work for me when Lee plays with tone a lot, which the trailer seemed to imply as it seemed part exploitation, part treasure hunt, part real war drama. I hope they come together beautifully, I mean the trailer itself looked okay, but I'm just going off my typical reaction to Lee's work.

Bryan L. said...

Aidan: I just had a gut feeling that he HAD to have done that cast at one point lol.

Anonymous: You can find the George C. Scott moments here (actoroscar.blogspot.com/2017/09/alternate-best-actor-1935-edward-g.html)

Mitchell Murray said...

In regards to the Synder cut of "Justice League", I frankly couldn't care less; I've yet to watch the whole theatrical cut as is, mostly because I don't really have any desire to. And from what I have seen/heard of the film, I'd prefer to polish up the 2 hours we do have, before adding any more run time.

Louis: Having just watched his performance for the first time, is there any chance Reynolds could go up for "Boogie Nights"?

Bryan L. said...

Louis: Your 5 biggest disappointments and surprises film-wise for 2019?

Also, your updated Top Ten ensembles for the 2010s?

Louis Morgan said...

Mitchell:

No.

Bryan:

Disappointments:

1. Lucy in the Sky
2. Ad Astra
3. The Dead Don't Die
4. Midsommar
5. It: Chapter 2

Surprises:

1. The Aeronauts
2. Wild Rose
3. Dolemite Is My Name
4. Honey Boy
5. Detective Pikachu

Considered The Rise of Skywalker, which wasn't a disappointment for me because I had no expectations for it, but I almost put it in surprises, since it was far worse than I thought it would be.

Ensembles

1. Silence
2. Parasite
3. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
4. Birdman
5. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs
6. The Favourite
7. The Death of Stalin
8. The Wolf of Wall Street
9. The Master
10. The Irishman

Bryan L. said...

Louis: Fury Road just miss out?

Louis Morgan said...

No, next would be Inherent Vice (I mean after all even Eric Roberts was good) and I, Tonya, however Mad Max would probably come just after those.

Anonymous said...

What is the fourth performance in Louis's Isaac quartet? Llewyn Davis, Ex Machina, this and?

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: Show Me A Hero.

Anonymous said...

Louis where do you think Isaac has gone wrong?

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous:

Other than X-Men: Apocalypse as an easy paycheck (which was not according to himself, and seems like he might've learned his lesson a bit on that), he's actually in a bit of a Fassbender badluck situation, where he's choosing the right directors to work with, but they're having some off days.

Suburbicon (George Clooney's worst film)
Annihilation (Alex Garland's worst film)
Life Itself (I mean so many seem gaga for Fogelman's tv series, although it sounds like as maudlin of tripe to me, but I won't judge too much sight unseen)
Triple Frontier (JC Chandor's worst film)
Rise of Skywalker (The worst Star Wars film)

I'll admit other than Suburbicon, Isaac wasn't exactly good himself either, which I'd say suggests he's not someone who can make something out of nothing, needing at least a decent part to work with....which is true for most actors.

Hopefully this trend will not continue with Denis Villeneuve and Dune (Side note on that, could some pundits/commenters do their research, I've heard so many talk about it as a sequel to David Lynch's film, geez, do a little research...)

Anyways hopefully Dune will mark a turnaround for him.

Robert MacFarlane said...

For some reason my gut is telling me Stephen McKinley Henderson will end up being a standout in Dune. The role (a reluctant traitor) has potential if Villeneuve gives it the proper respect. Plus it’s fascinating casting.

Michael McCarthy said...

Could I get your 11-20 films for 2015 and your 16-20 for 2013? You previously said your 11-15 was Before Midnight, 12 Years a Slave, The Zero Theorem, Good Vibrations, and Captain Phillips.

Lucas Saavedra said...

Louis: any rating changes for the rest of the cast of A Most Violent Year?

Louis Morgan said...

Robert:

That's definitely some inspired casting.

Michael:

2013:

16. Prisoners
17. Nebraska
18. The Place Beyond the Pines
19. Dallas Buyers Club
20. Filth

2015:

11. Room
12. Love & Mercy
13. The Martian
14. Brooklyn
15. Bone Tomahawk
16. Mr. Holmes
17. Far From the Madding Crowd
18. Steve Jobs
19. Inside Out
20. It Follows

Lucas:

Nein.

Anonymous said...

Louis: Have you ever given your overall thoughts on Incendies and In a Better World as films? If not, what are they?

Michael McCarthy said...

Great to see Room, Bone Tomahawk, and Inside Out on the 2015 list, I do wish Macbeth had made it up there but it is what it is.

Calvin Law said...

The Dune performances I’m most looking forward to are Chalamet, Ferguson, Henderson and Chang.

Bryan L. said...

I am glad that Love & Mercy, Brooklyn, Steve Jobs and Bone Tomahawk made it.

Tim said...

Calvin I want to see what they do with Dave Bautista

Aidan Pittman said...

R.I.P. Charles Lippincott

Calvin Law said...

Louis: could Janney go up to a 4.5 for Bad Education? Just watched it and was way more impressed by her here than her Oscar winning turn. Really dug the film on the whole too.

Luke Higham said...

Calvin: What about Jackman.

Matt Mustin said...

Calvin: I'm still one of those people who thinks Alison Janney was absolutely a 5 in I, Tonya.

Bryan L. said...

Janney is my #2 for 2017 Supporting, now that I think about it.

Louis: Your thoughts on the use of music in Breaking the Waves?

Calvin Law said...

Luke: fairly easy 5, actually, I was surprised, did not expect him to go in certain directions with that role.

Matt and Bryan: Again I can see why people love the performance, and I think it has its moments, but I would have picked Manville, Metcalf and even Spencer over her.

Matt Mustin said...

Calvin: Well, Manville is an easy win, definitely.

Mitchell Murray said...

Rest in peace, Charles Lippincott.

Also, to chyme in on 2017 supporting actress, Janney would be #3 in my ranking and I would give her a solid 4. Her role is the most simplistic of the film's characters, but she's still quite entertaining in her performance, and does grant some depth in her quieter moments. All that said, I did prefer Manville and Metcalf.

Mitchell Murray said...

And just for clarification, when I say #3 in my ranking, I mean in terms of the actual nominees.

Anonymous said...

Louis, at one point will you be reviewing TV performances?

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: I think he'll do something like that once the bonus rounds are complete, but I suspect it'll only be the truly great ones or 5 equivalents at least. However the format of the reviews will change to some degree, you can't talk about Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad in a single review post.

Mitchell Murray said...

On another note, I watched "The Debt" today - and its yet another halfway decent thriller to add to the list. For myself, its sort of a sixty/forty split between the things I liked and the things I didn't. I admired the direction, the story itself, and a few of the performances. What I wasn't so keen on, though, was the jump scares, the immediacy of the romantic subplot, and the last five minutes. Overall the film is certainly a mixed bag for me; Effective in parts, but rather standard in others.

Mirren - 3
Chastain - 3.5
Wilkinson - 3
Csokas - 2.5
Hinds - 3
Worthington - 4.5 (Revelatory turn from him, and he single handedly pushes the film to a passing grade)
Christensen - 2.5

Anonymous said...

Louis: Thoughts on the cinematography of Shane and Three Coins in the Fountain.

Matt Mustin said...

Tenet looks amazing. Can't wait to see it, but I WILL wait as long as I have to in order to see if safely.

Aidan Pittman said...

Louis: Thoughts on the new Tenet trailer (unless you're avoiding it)?

Also, the film is no longer listed for July 17th, advertising just says "coming to theaters".

Matt Mustin said...

I will say, I'm loving whatever it is Kenneth Branagh is doing in that trailer.

Bryan L. said...

I’m also VERY intrigued by that score.

Matt Mustin said...

Bryan L: If that's the actual score from the film, me too.

Calvin Law said...

John David Washington again, looks very promising, and love how intrigued it’s gotten me about the story. However, I pray to god Nolan gives something for Elizabeth Debicki to do because based on what we’ve seen so far she’s probably just gonna be a damsel in distress. I hope to eat crow and be proven wrong.

Matthew Montada said...

Loved the new Tenet trailer! The acting seems promising and the filmmaking just looks spectacular

Actually now that i think about it, what are your guys’ predictions for ratings for the cast for Tenet (if any)?

Mine would be:
John David Washington - 4.5
Robert Pattinson - 4.5
Elizabeth Debicki - 4 (at least)
Kenneth Branagh - 3.5
Michael Caine - 3
Dimple Kapida - 3
Aaron Taylor-Johnson - 3
Everyone Else - Collective 2.5

Mitchell Murray said...

Matthew: Don't really want to get that specific with the cast until I've seen the whole film. But yes, I agree with all of you guys about the new "Tenet" trailer, and my general anticipation for the movie.

Also, I went and watched “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” tonight, and as someone with limited knowledge of Tennesse Williams plays, the movie was....kind of effective? In a similar manner to “The Debt” it is a mixed bag for myself; One does get an idea of where the screenplay was censored, and thus, the impact of the story feels genuinely sabotaged. Additionally, there are times when the film really shows its theatrical origins, to the point where several scenes come across as stiff or rehearsed. Now with all that said, there are still some fine performances on display, and that sort of makes up for the movie’s shortcomings.

Newman - 4
Taylor - 3
Ives - 3
Anderson - 3
Carson - 3
Sherwood - 2

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous:

Incendies - (Is quite a lot to take in, perhaps too much not sure, but certainly effectively told by Villeneuve, that doesn't blunt the impact of the story, however also does avoid an extreme melodrama, which seemed quite possible given the nature of the story. Compellingly told, if a rather painful experience in a certain sense.)

In A Better World - (Overall I thought the film was just fine, with the two stories being rather loosely connected, and almost seeming too simple in each instance. It is decently enough performed, and I don't think either element is poorly done, however there wasn't for me the certain kismet found between the two, nor did I found the exploration of its ideas all that cogent.)

Calvin:

She was on the border for me anyways, so yes.

Bryan & Matt:

To purposefully repeat myself, I think Janney would still have been far more appreciated there if she hadn't been in Oscar consideration strangely enough.

Bryan:

Sparingly, though effectively used by von Trier, as sort of stage setting for each acts, and quite well in that sense in a unique way to use each song. Additionally, not exactly music in the usual film sense, but that final use of bells is just brilliant.

Anonymous:

Loyal Griggs's work for Shane is fine, though not great, as a relatively early example of applying color to the western landscape. It is good, but would be bested greatly by films like the Searchers, particularly in creating the sense of a grand scope. We get some scope here, but it isn't as dynamically shot. Otherwise though there is some strong work in making the colors project well, particularly in the nighttime scenes, which are given a striking moody aesthetic.

Milton Krasner's work for Three Coins in the Fountain, I think is a failure of maybe the concept? In maybe they are to look like paintings, but the mix of colors are more jarring than dynamic. The composition of shots and framing of them, doesn't make great use of setting or place, that is meant to look lush but honestly just looks flat often enough. Even the concept of including the "three coins"/three women, often they just look crammed together.

Aidan:

Frankly I didn't need to see the first trailer, as Nolan is in the group of filmmakers who has that pass for me. Saw more than enough in the first, so I'll skip it.

Mitchell Murray said...

Side Note: I realize I might be underserving Taylor and Ives, but on this first viewing of the film they simply didn't stand out to me that much. I'll bump them each up to a 3.5 as they're both entirely fine, though for the moment Newman definitely left the biggest impression on me.

Calvin Law said...

I'd give 4.5's to both Newman and Taylor and a 5 to Ives.

Mitchell Murray said...

Also, I'll again own up to my lack of knowledge regarding Tennessee Williams, and the film adaptations of his plays.

Luke Higham said...

Saw the Tenet trailer as well, I was already sold on it but Branagh's role is actually more intriguing than I thought it would be. And Pattinson's very much Nolan's conduit in this film.

Luke Higham said...

I also hope Nolan decides to delay Tenet until just before the Eligibility period ends to give himself a better chance of possibly winning Director.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Your thoughts on this scene from Steve Jobs?

https://youtu.be/2fweZsmH4Tw

Calvin Law said...

Luke: with how they’re releasing trailers now I feel like Nolan is trying to go ahead with the original release date. *shudders*

Luke Higham said...

Calvin and Matt: I probably will see it on whatever release date it's coming out. I'm quite lucky I don't live in a major town/city because that would be too much of an obstacle to overcome.

Tim said...

thoughts on the "Noe easy way out" Montage from Rocky four? It is really unnecessarily Long, but that song is so fucking awesome that i just love it anyway.

Also; what do you think About the Nostalgia Critic in general?

Mitchell Murray said...

Tim: I'm not gonna lie - There are a number of Nostalgia Critic reviews that I enjoy, and he has some interesting views on certain film making trends. There are other times, though, where I think he's a little nit picky, overreaching or just plain subjective for my taste.

Me saying this, of course, is not a statement/defense regarding the channel's controversy, but rather a proclamation that I agree with some of Doug's content, but definitely not all of it.

BRAZINTERMA said...

Hey Louis and anyone reading this comment
Can you give me a little help?
Winter is coming in my city and tell me 9 or 10 films whose climatic weather predominant in the stories is cold, if you can remember cite one work in each decade (starting in the 20/30 until 2010s).

Anonymous said...

Luke, do you really think Nolan could win Best Director for this? It isn’t the type of film they award there.

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: It's only wishful thinking from me. I really wanted him to win for Dunkirk where he finally overcame the nomination hurdle. Given how the year may pan out, there's always a possibility and he's more likely to win than Villenueve.

Tim said...

Mitchell yeah, this whole "Change The Channel" thing for me is kind of like metoo-allegations. I myself couldn't care less, as i can easily seperate creator and creation, but i can definitely see why others would not.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

So I saw True History of the Kelly Gang, and I enjoyed it, even though I definitely think I need a rewatch. My ratings:

MacKay- 4.5 (could go up to a 5, I couldn't help but feel the film held him back ever so slightly with a few stylistic choices on Kurzel's part)
Davis- 4.5
Hoult- 5 (MVP for me, incredible portrayal of a scoundrel)
Crowe- 4.5 (could really have gone for more of him)
Mckenzie- 3.5
Hunnam- 3.5
Schwerdt- 3.5 (thought he did a relatively good job at building up to Mackay's portrayal)

Bryan L. said...

Tahmeed: Yeah, I think I’m going to have to rewatch it myself too. I really did like it, yet I still feel that I didn’t *fully* tap into its wavelength. I also agree on Hoult as MVP.

Luke Higham said...

Tahmeed: Must say I'm very happy that both Male categories won't be fiveless this year.

Bryan L. said...

Luke: What if Pattinsons character is actually Nolan poking fun of himself a little bit? A British guy wearing a suit & a scarf explaining what he’s going to do, but just a little cheekier (the last scene in the trailer). Some food for thought :)

Luke Higham said...

Bryan: As soon as I saw the first images, I knew he was evoking Nolan in some way.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

I am psyched as hell for Tenet, even though I'd find it fitting if it still failed commercially due to Nolan's recklessness.

Emi Grant said...

Brazinterma: Ever since Sam Rockwell's review here, Snow Angels has oddly enough turned into a "winter movie" I really, really enjoy. It helps that it also lead me to discovering my love for Explosions In The Sky.

Luke Higham said...

I haven't mentioned this yet but as someone who 99.9 times out a 100 wouldn't wish ill on anyone or anything but I really hope the JL Snyder Cut backfires tremendously.

I wonder what Mark Kermode's opinion will be.

Calvin Law said...

All the Nolan nonsense has definitely soured me on Tenet. As much as I love and admire filmmakers, I can’t help but feel some just live in a little bubble of their own where their creative ambition is superior to all else. And on the note of Nostalgia Critic, never understood the appeal.

Brazinterma: Fargo is the first one that comes to mind.

Robert MacFarlane said...

In regards to Nostalgia Critic, I may as well throw in my two cents.

Back when I was in high school and college nearly a decade ago, I loved him. Thought he was hilarious. Loved him throwing tomatoes at easy targets. I even loved those stupid low-grade "movies" he made for the anniversary celebrations.

Then I grew up. Once I got to certain age, I really started to see the immaturity of it. He, Cinema Sins, and Red Letter Media created an era nitpicky, reductive film criticism that I've only witnessed thus far as poisoning a generation. He'll have a good take here or there, but it's far and few between, and his insights are base at best 95% of the time. He's reliant on a shtick that has only gotten staler and staler with time. I dare you to watch his "review" of The Wall and not cringe your face into imploding.

The people he shepherded and then neglected on his site tended to be far more talented and insightful, especially once they left. Lindsay Ellis in particular is a great dissector of pop culture in a way that's informative, researched, and unique. You can disagree with her takes while at least seeing where she's coming from. I recommend her videos on Disney in particular.

Robert MacFarlane said...

I also agree with Calvin in regards to Nolan. His stubbornness at this point is childish at best. Unless you agree with the tinfoil hat conspiracy theorists and your average Republican moron, going out in public spaces even in July is a huge risk. I implore everyone here to stay as safe as possible and don't take the chance. Just wait it out. I miss theaters too. They were my sanctuary. But I'm willing to wait as long as I have to.

Louis Morgan said...

Note: Next review will likely be a bit delayed, as just busy with things in general.

Tahmeed:

The last scene where Sorkin is truly honest to the character he had created with Steve Jobs, where he basically chickened out to complete the tale of the brilliant egotist, something he had not done with Zuckerberg, not that he had to go the same way, but where it went did not feel natural. This is the one scene that does work, as you get where both men is coming from, even if only one is still correct in everything he says. Also just one of the better acted moments of both Rogen and Fassbender in the film. Can't help but feel Fincher, would've gotten Sorkin to remove the false schmaltz, but now I'm digressing.

Tim:

Rocky IV, I will also support as a triumph in a completely atypical way, particularly as half the movie a montage, but who cares, every montage is amazing. This one in particular, even as it mostly recaps the movie we just watched, but that song just carries it completely through.

Can't say I've really experienced too much of the Nostalgia Critic beyond largely osmosis, but from that to me it is reflective of a bit of what Robert mentioned. This being the school of the detrimental "nitpick" film criticism or "equation" film criticism. By the latter I mean where a film is seen to basically has to have just certain ingredients or it is bad. Now there are film-making "rules", which are good rules of thumbs but even they can be broken, however the whole idea just simplifies the very idea of what films can be and really limits the medium.

Brazinterma:

Snow movies:

20's: The Gold Rush
30's: Lost Horizon
40's: Battleground
50's: Scrooge
60's: Doctor Zhivago
70's: McCabe & Mrs. Miller
80's: The Thing
90's: Fargo HM Misery
00's: Frozen River
10's: Snowpiercer HM The Grey

Mitchell Murray said...

Robert: I wouldn't go as far as "poisoning the generation", but I do agree that the structure of Nostalgia Critic's reviews has gotten very tired. I still think he has some interesting ideas regarding certain films - and even some trends of the current business, like I said - but overall, I've definitely outgrown him like yourself.

Now in terms of Youtube movie reviews, I often find myself watching Stuckmann, Double Toasted, and to a lesser degree Jahns and the Schmoes.

Calvin Law said...

Louis: take your time, I always enjoy these gaps between reviews. I forgot to mention but this was a particularly well written write-up of Isaac.

Mitchell: I genuinely don't understand the appeal of Stuckmann and especially Jahns, haven't seen the others though. For online movie critics, Ellis is great, I'm a fan of the Breakfast All Day Podcast (formerly What the Flick, with Lemire, Dulrade, and Atchity), Kermode of course. Although I'll admit my general preference is for film analysis channels like Thomas Flight, Nerdwriter1, and Lesson From the Screenplays.

Matt Mustin said...

Mitchell: I 100% would go that far. Absolutely. "Poisoning a generation" is a perfect way to say it.

Emi Grant said...

Calvin: I recently found a comment that I think perfectly captures why many (including me) love Stuckmann. 'He's the perfect "common man's" movie reviewer. He's seen all kinds of movies but hasn't lost sight of what the average person would enjoy in a movie.'

As for myself, aside from Stuckmann I'm a fan of the Sardonicast trio (even if I sometimes end up liking their banter more than their takes themselves). As for film analysis channels, The Take and CineFix are always my go-to. LFTS is really great too.

Mitchell Murray said...

Calvin: Stuckmann I feel just has a very accessible and straightforward style in his reviews. His passion for films really does come through in his presentation, but generally speaking, he's also quite knowledgeable and fair minded about the content he analyzes. To me, its that combination of enthusiasm, collectiveness and reliability that makes me a fan.

By comparison, Kermode and "What the Flick" both tend to be more analytical in their approaches. For me this is especially effective for the former as I enjoy the majority of his reviews, as well as his dense yet well observed commentary. "What the Flick" also fits this mold somewhat, though I would say they miss the ball more often; In fact, I feel many of their collaborative reviews become too unfocused, and that Dulrade and Lemire both have broken their own rules to adhere to their personal preferences. Nothing wrong with that, of course, but that doesn't mean I agree with them intellectually.

As for people like Jahns, the Schmoes and Double Toasted, I tend to like their reviews mainly for their humour alone. Most of their reviews aren't that in depth, admittedly, but they cover enough detail much of the time for me to give them a pass. Also, I just find all three of them genuinely funny.

Also, love the shout out to Nerdwriter!

Aidan Pittman said...

Watched Spider-Man (2002) for the first time. Was really surprised with just how much I liked it. Certainly not perfect but Raimi's efforts work more than well enough and make for a fun ride.

Maquire - 3
Dafoe - 4
Dunst - 3
Franco- 2.5
Simmons - 3.5

Bryan L. said...

Louis: Your retro directing choices for Cuarón, Inarritu, and del Toro?

Tim said...

My favorite film-Analysis channels:

CineFix
Lessons From The Screenplay
Every Frame a Painting
Just Write
The Take
Jack's Movie Review
Nerdwriter
Lindsay Ellis (even though her Eating and drinking all the time is kind of annoying)
Patrick (H) Willems (and i agree about the Plot holes!)
Fandor
Be Kind Rewind
Wolfcrow
Corridor Crew (for the effects)

I've Always felt kind of indifferent About Chris Stuckman


The Nostalgia Critic though has Always had this weird Appeal for me (except for "The Wall"). May ´be it's because we both love Mary Poppins and A Christmas Carrol, i don't know.
I've Always thought that he brings out his points pretty understandably.

Many People say his persona was responsible for the subgenre of "making fun of nitpicky People, still getting seen as legit criticism". While that may be tru, i think it is partly connected to your own attitude. If you start such a Video knowing that, you can know not to take it seriously. And i think he is also Pretty good at differentiating between simple jokes and his actual Points, especially outside his Reviews, in his analysis Videos he brings out in between, in which he discusses certain Trends in filmmaking etc.

So i would not say he destroyed a Generation.
Cinemasins did.
Those guys give absolutely no difference between wannabe-nitpicks and legit Points, but when asked Always Claim to simply be unserious, even though they once had a Video (i believe it was taken down now actually) where someone says they had come up with the idea for the channel to actually criticise real flaws!
Okay, I'm getting Angry. I should calm down. Think About something good. Think ab out CinemaWins.

Álex Marqués said...

The thing I now dislike the most about a lot of YT "critics" is that they don't come across as people who love movies (Stuckmann is an exception, even if I don't think he's particularly insightful), but as guys who want to show how "edgy" they are while they make fun of trash. The funny thing is, when they have to talk about history of film, or about what makes art compelling, they fail on an incredibly basic level (https://youtu.be/BYWNFwwOqYQ). That's why I cannot stand Doug Walker now (and I used to like him): he's the kind of person who argues that The Shining miniseries is bad (which probably is) because horror that is slow automatically becomes boring. I mean, f*** off.

I'll personally take Blank Check Podcast (which is funny and makes their passion for flawed movies contagious) and Lindsay Ellis videos (which don't need to shit on anyone to make long videos compelling) over "witty" youtubers who attack easy targets without having ever been in a film set any day of the week.

Álex Marqués said...

(That being said, I remember EFAP videos being quite good)

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Personally, I used to enjoy a few of Nostalgia Critic's videos, but the only content creator from his team I keep up with anymore is Todd in the Shadows's music reviews.

As for film analysis channels, I LOVE Lessons from the Screenplay, The Take, Be Kind Rewind, Every Frame a Painting, and Nerdwriter1. I also really enjoy Chris Stuckmann's reviews, because he just has this certain enthusiasm that doesn't suck the soul and joy out of movies like so many of the other channels tend to do.

Anonymous said...

Louis: Thoughts on Griggs' work in The Tin Star and how it compares to his work in Shane.

Anonymous said...

Louis, which ten actors have the most authoritative voices.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: If there ever was a GOT prequel series about Robert's Rebellion, who'd be your casting choice for a young Tywin Lannister.

Matthew Montada said...

Everyone: One film/tv/book reviewing channel that i recommend (now that Tim brought up Film-analysis channels) is Impression Blend. Not only is she a beautiful lady, but she is also very intelligent when it comes to reviewing different forms of storytelling and has a huge amount of passion towards what she does and loves. She even manages to crack a funny joke or two in her videos lol (very spot-on comedic timing by the way). I highly recommend checking out her channel on YouTube whenever you can. You will love her content (and how she presents it) in a matter of minutes.

BRAZINTERMA said...

When I talk about films with cold weather, there is no need for snow on the scene. But I liked all your suggestions.

Thanks Emi, Calvin and Louis

Luke Higham said...

Guys, who do you think will be MVP in The French Dispatch.

Emi Grant said...

Luke: I'm putting my money on either Swinton or Del Toro

Aidan Pittman said...

Luke: I'd guess Del Toro too.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Could I have your #11-20 movies of 1984?

Mitchell Murray said...

Louis: What would be your thoughts on David's breakdown and the "Come with me" scenes from "The Debt"?

I must say, after watching those two moments in particular, it made me realize that Worthington was simply misused in a lot of his action lead roles. I never found him to be as outwardly terrible as some people, and his ability to elevate a routine film like "The Debt" shows what he can do under the right guidance.

Matt Mustin said...

Mitchell: To be completely fair to Worthington, his action lead roles just didn't give him anything to do. He didn't have any presence in those performances, but at the same time, honestly, how could he?

Calvin Law said...

Luke: Del Toro but could just as easily be a dark horse in the ensemble like Park or Khoudri.

Louis Morgan said...

Bryan:

Cuaron:

Sorcerer/Wages of Fear
Touch of Evil
Odd Man Out

Inarritu:

Aguirre, The Wrath of God
Kiss of the Spider Woman
Vertigo

del Toro:

Angel Heart
A Matter of Life and Death
Frakenstein

Calvin:

Thanks.

Anonymous:

The Tin Star, which is an underrated western in general is very well shot by Griggs and goes along with the film for me, which actually share more than a few similarities with Shane, with me greatly preferring this film. One being Griggs's superior black and white work. This in just crafting a gorgeous atmosphere and imagery. Notable as his black and white gives both a moody sensibility along with still a sense of the western moody. This with just a pristine look, with particularly dynamic composition of shots that really accentuate the dynamic between Perkins and Fonda.

Anonymous:

James Earl Jones
Tony Jay
Charles Dance
Jeremy Irons
Christopher Lee
George C. Scott
John Carradine
Richard Burton
Denzel Washington
Sterling Hayden

Luke:

Paul Bettany or Damian Lewis.

Tahmeed:

11. The Karate Kid
12. Repo Man
13. The Company of Wolves
14. Romancing the Stone
15. The Terminator
16. Broadway Danny Rose
17. 1984
18. A Soldier's Story
19. The Last Starfighter
20. The Flamingo Kid

Calvin Law said...

Louis: thoughts on these retro casts?

Touch of Evil directed by Cuaron
Ramon: Tony Dalton
Susan: Lily James
Captain Quinlan: Peter Mullan
Menzies: Noah Taylor
Grandi: Sergi Lopez
Tanya: Nastassja Kinski

Kiss of the Spider Woman directed by Inarritu
Luis: Nicholas Hoult
Valentin: Gael Garcia Bernal
Leni Lamaison/Marta/Spider Woman: Alice Braga

A Matter of Life and Death directed by del Toro
Peter: Tom Hiddleston
June: Claire Foy
Dr Reeves: Ralph Ineson
Angel: Elizabeth Debicki
Conductor 71: Louis Garrel
Abraham Farlan: Michael Shannon

Anonymous said...

Louis: Thoughts on the direction, screenplay and editing for The Lighthouse?

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Could I have your thoughts on this four minute analysis video, which I'm pretty sure inspired Cobra Kai?
https://youtu.be/C_Gz_iTuRMM


Anonymous said...

Louis: Thoughts on this little meltdown from Michael Bay?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xgOe7Jm1V4

Louis Morgan said...

Calvin:

Love the cast, particularly Dalton as Vargis, on the right side of the law.

All in for that Hoult, Bernal hasn't quite proven himself to me yet, though maybe, sure on the obvious casting of Braga.

Love all the choices, particularly Ineson against type as the doctor. Might go for someone more overtly American for June, though Foy can do the accent, as just to accentuate the "conflict" more.

Anonymous:

Let me get you those on the next post.

Tahmeed:

Pretty hilarious as basically a defense lawyer's case for Johnny, this with careful "interpretation" of moments, and of course leaving out key points of evidence. Wonderfully done though.

Anonymous:

Well the way Bay goes about his meltdown is silly, specifically some of his exact words, although he technically is right that his space suits needed to look good, as that major aesthetic point could've ruined the entire illusion of the asteroid. The way he goes about saying it is not particularly articulate to say the least, but he's not wrong in that the suits were important for his film.