Every Tuesday presents a wealth of movie options for discerning viewers, offering new releases on various streaming platforms, catalog titles on Blu-ray or 4K, and a mixture of vintage and original films. This bi-weekly column curates the most notable selections to help you navigate the cinematic landscape.
PICK OF THE WEEK:
“Eyes Wide Shut,” Stanley Kubrick’s final film, is now available in 4K as part of the Criterion Collection, arriving at a timely moment. The film has undergone a critical reevaluation lately, especially in light of ongoing revelations connected to figures like Epstein, and its holiday setting adds a layer of subversiveness as it explores darker themes rather than traditional warmth and cheer. Featuring new and archival interviews, documentaries, and an essay by Megan Abbott, this release is a must-watch.
ON NETFLIX:
“Train Dreams,” directed by Clint Bentley, adapts Denis Johnson’s novella with stunning visuals and a lyrical narration that aligns with nature’s beauty. This heartfelt film captures grief significantly, showcasing Joel Edgerton’s powerful performance alongside an effective supporting role by William H. Macy.
“Selena y Los Dinos,” directed by Isabel Castro, is a poignant bio-documentary about Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla. The film utilizes home videos, testimonials, and archival footage, particularly emphasizing the impact of Selena’s tragic death, presented with a raw emotionality that mirrors the real-life shock.
ON AMAZON PRIME:
Luca Guadagnino’s “After the Hunt” tackles the nuances of cancel culture through complex character portrayals rather than simple judgments. This social drama, styled as a thriller, follows a messy protagonist, making way for deeper reflections on interpersonal grievances while culminating in a somewhat unnecessary epilogue.
ON HULU:
“Love+War,” a bio-documentary directed by Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, follows Lynsey Addario, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer. It vividly depicts the harsh realities of war while exploring the challenges of balancing a demanding career with her role as a mother. The film’s thematic organization enhances its emotional depth, providing an impactful viewing experience.
ON 4K / BLU-RAY / DVD / VOD:
“Anemone” marks Daniel Day-Lewis’s first film appearance in eight years, directing and co-writing with his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. Although the pacing is slow and may frustrate some viewers, it could reignite Day-Lewis’s passion for acting, leading to more roles in the future.
“Splitsville” by Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, showcases their humor and narrative style. This film, featuring Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona, retains their sharp wit while delivering a visually dynamic, character-driven story.
“Darren Aronofsky’s ‘Caught Stealing’ is a late-‘90s crime caper that revives his earlier kinetic style. With strong performances, particularly from Austin Butler, the film features a compelling supporting cast, including Liev Schreiber and Vincent D’Onofrio.
“Together” offers a unique take on body horror starring real-life couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie as a pair tethered together by a mysterious curse. Their performances balance dread and dark comedy, making it an engaging watch despite a slightly weaker conclusion.
Eleanor the Great, starring June Squibb, is Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut, exploring themes of identity and deception as a woman fabricates her past. The film showcases solid performances, particularly from young Erin Kellyman as a journalism student.
Andres Veiel’s documentary “Riefenstahl” delves into the life of Nazi propagandist Leni Riefenstahl, evoking timely reflections on the nature of casual evil and its implications within modern society.
“Secret Mall Apartment” recounts a group of artists who transformed an abandoned mall space into a creative haven, blending humor with deeper reflections on community and art.
“I’m ‘George Lucas’: A Connor Ratliff Story” evolves from a comedic premise into a nuanced examination of identity and obsession, further solidifying Ratliff’s multifaceted character through engaging storytelling.
“Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point,” a feature from Omnes Films, presents a heartfelt gathering of a family during the holidays, navigating a blend of tradition and unexpected developments, all in a magical realism tone that surprises and delights.
The “A Better Tomorrow Trilogy” highlights John Woo’s filmmaking evolution within the “heroic bloodshed” genre, showcasing Chow Yun-fat’s rise to stardom through its action-packed narrative.
Luis Buñuel’s “Él” joins the Criterion Collection for its psychological intensity, while “Hell’s Angels” offers a historical glimpse into filmmaking transitions with its impressive dogfight scenes.
The “Airport: Complete Four-Film Collection” showcases a snapshot of 70s disaster filmmaking, with standout performances adding charm to the ensemble narratives.
Overall, this week’s selections encompass a rich variety of themes and storytelling styles, offering viewers notable cinematic experiences across platforms. From emotional biopics to dark comedies and social commentaries, there’s something for everyone to discover.