Gus Van Sant's Constant Thematic and Cinematic Elements
The differences in these films could not be more blatant, and yet Gus Van Sant has found a way to portray the same messages and use the same techniques in each.

After a disastrous first impression introducing Miguel, her boyfriend, Brenda, desperate to sleep with him, convinces him to stay at her house that night without her parents knowing. Everything goes well until a convenient stomach pain followed by unstoppable gases leaves Miguel with no alternatives, as the bathroom is next to Brenda's parents' room.
The differences in these films could not be more blatant, and yet Gus Van Sant has found a way to portray the same messages and use the same techniques in each.
Ultra-violent storytelling has never been my thing, but the issues with Scarface go beyond that. The film perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Latinx immigrants and uses gore and misogyny for shock value that never serves any purpose. The whole venture is frustratingly empty, and left me desiring something more.
Halle's belting, crystal clear notes, and warm tone infused something into this blockbuster that I thoroughly enjoy.
"There is something going on between us that I cannot unravel."