All Star Tribute to Ingrid Bergman (1979)

An action-packed adrenaline rush with a diverse cast that delivers evocative storytelling.

The repeated actions, the blood on the petals, the rustling under the floor…An ambient short horror film takes us into another realm.

The social issues The Half of it takes on are handled well, between the antagonization brought on to Ellie for her race and the conflict that arises from her being gay. Both aspects of her character are built up over the course of the film and don’t seem abrupt or rushed. The film shows racism towards Ellie and her and father in varying levels, from having her schoolmates specifically address her as "Chinese girl” to the fore mentioned way her Dad is treated due to language barriers. The same can be said about Ellie being a lesbian. While she never truly “comes out” in the narrative, that does not undermine her journey of self-discovery from being meaningful. These ideas aren’t thrust upon the viewer in a preachy manor, the scenarios that occur feel believable given the rural setting. The film presents watchers with problems whom those like Ellie may face, and leaves us to sit with them and reflect.

Amanda Riley gets the opportunity to travel to Vietnam for the experience of a lifetime.

Korean Dramas deserve your attention and not just the ones on Netflix.

This showcase of Hollywood’s finest talent will certainly be around come awards season, and much deserved