coffeeparty

This movie really took me by surprise. I watched it without expectations, not knowing what might unfold. I found it to be mesmerizing, immersive, strange, and artistic. It's a family melodrama, crime thriller, and musical, unlike any movie I've seen before. The songs were odd yet captivating. This was the first time I had seen the Spanish actress Karla Sofia Gascon and she was utterly amazing. All of the performances were top notch but hers was truly outstanding. I got lost in the film and consider it a work of art. Now I am curious about the director Jacques Audiard's other films and plan to watch them.

The use of music throughout the series and especially in episode 4 (Push Comes to Shove) is brilliant. Janis Joplin & Big Brother and the Holding Company wailing Ball and Chain is unexpected and it provides a terrifying and desperate soundtrack that perfectly matches the story line. I think the entire series is excellent--it's an eerie thriller with sharp, dark wit. Outstanding writing, acting, and directing. The characters may seem over the top at times, but everything rings true throughout the series.

I found this movie to be poignant, painful, and heartbreaking. All of the acting is stellar and genuine. I found the performances of Mahershala Ali and Alex Hibbert to be particularly stunning. The swimming scene with Juan and the young Chiron is particularly moving, sweet and heartfelt. The movie conveys the complexity of human nature -- how a person can be kind and caring, yet sell harmful drugs or how another character can show compassion toward his bullied friend but collude with the lowlife bullies. The bullying scenes wiped me out emotionally and I left the theater filled with melancholy. On the other hand, I somehow I felt hopeful after watching this movie and that feeling has stayed with me overall when I reflect back on the film.