A film adapted from the most renowned and lengthy novel by Luang Wichitwathakan, written during a time when the values surrounding women’s rights were just beginning to be discussed in Thai society. It tells the epic life story of a strong-willed woman named Praphimpan. The film covers approximately the first ten chapters of the novel, focusing on the period when Praphimpan is arrested for allegedly murdering her former lover, as well as becoming entangled in the murder case of her close friend.
Spiral could easily spawn new sequels and will most likely churn a decent profit. Is it a good Saw film? Absolutely. Could it have been revolutionary though? Also yes.
On the Road captures the bleak, hyper-masculine world of long-haul trucking in Northern Mexico, where anything can and will happen. A hard-boiled, neon-noir romantic thriller, it shows the gritty reality of roadside diners, truck stops, and truck cemeteries alongside the expansive, breathless beauty of the Mexican desert highways.
Him is visually stunning—all concrete cathedrals and bone-rattling impact shots that look like a nightmare highlight reel. Marlon Wayans is magnetic as this legendary quarterback who's basically selling salvation with a smile that never quite reaches his eyes. But the story keeps running in circles: more tests, more cryptic pep talks, more ritualistic drills. The sports-as-religion metaphor beats you over the head when subtlety would've been more effective. The middle drags, and that finale chooses spectacle over substance. It's undeniably stylish, but left me cold. Also worth noting: despite the Monkeypaw connection, this isn't actually a Jordan Peele film—he didn't write or direct.
Word of mouth has been incredible, but the film's faults cannot be ignored.
Paris is Burning elevated drag and ballroom into the public consciousness and permanently impacted LGBT culture. However, the performers featured in the documentary didn't reap the rewards of their visibility.
Vivarium is an uncomfortable and startling look at how easily progress devolves in the face of overwhelming stress.
