A film miniature set to classical music. The film's visuals fit the initially mysterious mood of the musical piece, only to gradually evoke increasing emotion until the final climax, which releases the previously accumulated emotions in the long sustain of the last note. The backdrop for this poetic story is the landscape of Warsaw's Old Town, captured in the time and space of Chopin's era, into which personified music enters – the girl from an old portrait "awakened to life." The touch of her hand brings to life the people and objects from the old engravings, only for the brief moment the music continues.
One of the reasons I love watching movies is that, much like books, they serve as windows into other times and different places. Productions from around the world offer valuable insights into the history and culture of their respective countries. And just like literature, cinema can help us understand the present by showing us the past.
When the world lost Chadwick Boseman on August 28, 2020, we all saw the impact of representation in film. Boseman was not only a Black superhero leading a Black cast in one of the most successful films in history; but his successes paved the way for more, long-overdue diversity in Hollywood.
Honey Don't! is a chaotic queer noir that's part detective story, part midnight movie madness. Margaret Qualley is fantastic as the wise-cracking private eye Honey, with Aubrey Plaza and Chris Evans adding their own dry humor to the mix. The mystery itself is pretty loose, but the film makes up for it with crackling sexual tension, weird side characters, and razor-sharp dialogue. It's messy and uneven, but in the best possible way.
When you don’t factor in the plethora of inferior sequels that have been produced, Luca is one of Pixar’s simplest and most unassuming films in years — and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. The film thrives on being a visual feast with a warm message for all ages, so much so that its unoriginal storyline doesn’t feel that big of a problem.
Looking for some Afro-centric entertainment? Check out these movies and immerse yourself in Black culture.
The film exhibits a respect for the craft and an empathy for human tribulations that have historically been ignored.
