josephrygaard

"1917" (2019) is a stunning war drama within the frontlines of World War I. If you want to get as much out of it as possible, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before watching:

1917 is - as it has rightly been advertised as - a movie that's supposed to look as though it was taken in one shot. This causes an immersive experience that is very rarely found in mainstream movies, and because of this, it needs a very different approach and preparation.

First thing first - the movie is absolutely gorgeous. Roger Deakins is in charge, so expect stunning cinematography and environments feeling both beautiful and raw. 1917 begs for the biggest screen around, and while at it, a powerful sound system to complete the experience with. Thomas Newman's score enhances the emotions and makes for an impactful viewing experience, further amplified by the great acting showcased from start to finish.

Second, this is a big movie. It has stakes; it is intense, and it is psychologically raw enough to really hit at certain moments. It does feature violence and gore, but more so of corpses rather than other gore-heavy movies like Saving Private Ryan or Hacksaw Ridge. Together with the plot - which does have a surprising depth and multiple interpretations - it might not be possible to take everything in at once. Certain plot elements along the way certainly has the power to make a second viewing just as powerful, if not even more.

1917 does have some sore spots, though. At some points in the movie are a few details which can break the immersion in terms of logic and consistency. This would not be a big issue at all if not for the immersive qualities which makes it feel slightly more "off" than it would otherwise do, however, the movie does hint that the story at certain moments might not be told as objectively as first thought. If those moments are viewed more subjectively from the protagonists' point of view, those issues can fade away as those details are not likely to be expressively or accurately perceived in the heat of the moment.

Another important factor is the sheer force of the movie, which might also feel uncomfortable at moments, but then again, it is a big movie. Almost too authentic, it creeps under your skin, it grows on you, and it stays with you emotionally long after it has ended.

And rightfully so.

My personal grade: a forceful 9/10. If you found this helpful, check my profile for more reviews.

"Bright Star" (2009) is a romantic movie based on the relationship of a poet and an upper-class woman. If you want to get as much out of it as possible, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before watching:

This movie doesn't bother itself with moving very fast. It can feel a bit confusing at first as there is no clear objective or quest to embark, but after getting more used to it, this way of telling the story can provide a certain timelessness and somberness. Bright Star is a telling of life and love, as it can and did turn out.

Now, as the story preoccupies on the feeling of love and falling in love, certain moments can have a certain "head over heels"-feel, in that the main characters are just enjoying life and each other and gradually dismiss other things we have come to identify them with. This doesn't provide plenty of dynamic either, although there is still a satisfactory amount thanks to the character Mr. Brown.

Nevertheless, Bright Star succeeds wildly in other aspects. The costumes are rich and tasteful, the acting feels genuine and the dialogue is indeed very poetic - almost too poetic at times, but never irritably. All in all, Bright Star is a poetic and romantic movie quite incapsulated in its own, cute sphere.

My personal grade: a relaxing 6/10. If you found this helpful, check my profile for more reviews.

"Saving Mr. Banks" (2013) is a charming movie about the people and relations behind the famous Mary Poppins. If you want to get as much out of it as possible, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before watching:

It's easy to dismiss Saving Mr. Banks at first glance as rather slow-paced and uninteresting for anyone that wasn't caught by the initial Mary Poppins-wave. That judgement could to an extent be justified, since this is after all a typical drama feature, and as such, rarely bothers itself with intense action sequences or an over-emphasized conflict of epic proportions. However, that does not mean that Saving Mr. Banks is not intriguing nor captivating - its intensity is just experienced in a different, but still present way. The aim lies on the aim protagonist, Pamela Travers, and her background as well as psychological connection to her work of fiction. Although she might come off as cold and one-dimensional, she grows into a very satisfying and cathartic arch towards the end.

The side characters do a great job with providing the additional and much needed warmth, which elevates the movie in a curious and quite cheerful way. The opposites of personalities make for amusing as well as deep felt interactions, all interwoven with relevant flashbacks for Mrs. Travers. The music is almost too catchy, the scenery lush, and all things considered makes for a cozy and relaxing experience - save the ending which can come off as a bit abrupt and sudden, but still relevant and understandable.

My personal grade: a pleasant 7/10. If you found this helpful, check my profile for more reviews.