Movie Review: The Visitor

So I saw this movie months ago and am just now getting to the review. Please forgive my absence. It's been a long few months. Onward:











As from my previous post I'm a new admirer of Tom McCarthy's. I think I made it pretty obvious that I respect and am awed by him as a director. This did not end with The Visitor. I was blown away by this film. McCarthy once again caught an honest and beautiful portrayal of humans in every day circumstances. And again, his casting was flawless. I think his experience as an actor has made him such a good director and screenplay writer. It's like having a professional wine taster pick out your glass of wine. You know that it's going to be thought out and considered and that you are going to drink one of the best glasses of wine you've ever had.



































I find it interesting that I've seen Richard Jenkins in a ton of movies over the past 20 years yet he's never really stuck out to me. But playing a man who is basically invisible and alone he shinned brighter than I've ever seen him. Not only did Jenkins completely surprise me with the quiet emotion he portrayed but Haaz Sleiman was pure gold on the screen. He was Tarek. Not to be overshadowed by two amazing male leads, the supporting roles played by Hiam Abbass (Tarek's mother) and Danai Gurira (Tarek's wife) only enhanced the cohesive bond of this film. I felt like I was invading someones private life by watching this movie. I have to say it: Tom McCarthy is my favorite director. I'm so sorry Baz Luhrmann.


To see or not to see?
Yes. Go. Enjoy it. Be moved.

Movie Review: The Station Agent

Receiving wide critical acclaim elsewhere, it seems the Oscars yet again disappointed by ignoring the best movie of 2003. Though a new admirer, my admiration for The Station Agent solidifies my love of the "indie" and Sundance film circuit.



I'm beyond stunned that this is Tom McCarthy's first screenplay, and even more amazed that he hasn't been discovered sooner! Though he is a noted actor his ability to write and direct go beyond anything I've seen him in. The ability he has to tell a story of the relationships between people makes me believe that the beauty of honest, organic, cinema is not lost to the big budget, poor acted, Hollywood proto types. I'm now a new and forever fan of McCarthy's (see: The Visitor).





















Peter Dinklage's portrayal of Finbar McBride was probably one of the best performances of the year. I felt every emotion that flickered on his face. I've never seen an actor in such control of their body before. His performance was only enhanced by the remarkable supporting cast. Patricia Clarkson, Bobby Cannavale, Michelle Williams... what a beautiful cast.






























I'm not sure how else I can express my dear admiration for this film.

To see?
A resounding yes.

Off-Broadway: Fuerzabruta

In trying to explain what I had just seen I told my friend that Fuerzabruta was an experience for all the senses. I wasn't sure what to expect but I'd heard great things about this show. Every year New York has a 20-for-20 where you come 20 minutes before the show and get tickets for only $20. This promo is a great way to see any off-Broadway show, especially since there is a standard $75 ticket for this show.

I loved everything about this show, and I honestly wished it had been longer. The one and only thing I'd say in regards to a change would be to have a maturity limit. Test out the audience with a few simple questions before allowing them in the room. And here's why: Repeatedly when the water sequence was going on throughout the room you could hear and see boys (who were most defiantly above the 18 age range) poking the performer's crotch. Seriously? Seriously. Other than their lack of common sense, this show was an experience everyone should have (who can handle themselves in a room with women).

After the performers took their bows they moved everyone to the dance floor and the music started banging, and then the water started. It was freezing out, but dancing like a child in the sprinklers on a hot summer day was well worth the cold ride home. I had never felt so free in my life.



Here are a few photos of some of the highlights. The pictures do no justice to the experience.



























Freddy Bosche and me. I kinda was amazed by him... seriously, couldn't take my eyes off of him.



















To see?
Yes, this is an amazing experience.