nedtal

"The Apprentice" (2024) offers a cautious portrayal of Donald Trump's early career, with Sebastian Stan mimicking Trump's gestures and speech effectively. Jeremy Strong's performance as Roy Cohn is also commendable. However, the film's plot falls short of expectations, lacking punch and clarity in indicating time and location transitions. Character development for both Trump and Cohn feels superficial, missing deeper insights into their lives and relationships. Themes of ambition, power, and corruption seem more reflective of contemporary ideologies rather than the 1970s and 1980s. The ending leaves room for a sequel, strategically timed around election results. Overall, the film provides limited new perspectives on Trump's life, warranting a mixed reception.

Not going to repeat what many have said, though I mostly agree with the general consensus. Some may give 'Titane' a 1 out of 10 because they were baffled by the surreal and shocking narrative. However, if you ponder a bit deeper, the film makes you question the pace at which our societal norms and medical science are evolving. As we advance in integrating gadgets and electronics into the human body, especially in the brain, what seems bizarre now could become the new normal in a century.

'Titane' delves into the unsettling intersection of humanity and technology, challenging our preconceptions. The protagonist's transformation, with a titanium plate in her head symbolizing resilience and identity metamorphosis, reflects a possible future where the boundaries between the organic and the synthetic blur. The film's visceral imagery and raw storytelling force viewers to confront the ethical and existential implications of such a future.

In 100 years, the concept of merging human bodies with technology, akin to what we witness in 'Titane,' might not only be accepted but also seen as an essential evolution. This thought-provoking narrative urges us to contemplate the trajectory of our technological advancements and their profound impact on our humanity. Despite its unsettling nature, 'Titane' is a bold exploration of a potential reality that demands our attention and reflection. And makes us to be prepare for what is coming, whether we like it or not. You would prefer having a Titanium Spine son, a strong one, wouldn't you?

"The Weeping Meadow" (2004) by Theo Angelopoulos is not a film meant for casual enjoyment. Such an approach would be an intellectual disservice. The film's symbolic and artistic expression aims to convey the profound suffering of the Greek people. Following centuries of hardship, some Greeks migrated to Odessa (now part of Ukraine and once under Tsar Catherine the Great's rule) after the Russian Civil War, and later returned to their homeland, Greece.

The film continues through the turmoil of World War II and the Greek Civil War that followed. To fully appreciate "The Weeping Meadow," one should also watch "Landscape in the Mist" (1988). The former film traces the agonies from the 1920s to the 1950s, depicting a search for identity amidst historical conflicts, while the latter explores the quest for a clear vision of the future after enduring immense suffering.

Angelopoulos' work urges today's audience to reflect on the ongoing displacement and suffering caused by conflicts, such as Russia's war against Ukraine and the civil war in Syria. The films underscore the necessity of empathy and kindness to address such human suffering.

Angelopoulos seemed to recognize the need for a clear vision of the future, especially after creating "Landscape in the Mist" in 1988. He acknowledged the lack of a clear future in Eastern Europe, a notion tragically evidenced by over two years of war in Ukraine. His films remind us of the past's sufferings and emphasize the importance of creating a better future, avoiding the repetition of past mistakes seen in Iraq, Syria, Ukraine, and Gaza. Ultimately, "kindness" is presented as the essential solution for humanity.