missionary

This is my third attempt at presenting a candor review of this film, after having my first review declined. Sitting through this two-and-a-half hour film was like sitting in a walled-in classroom while being shouted at with propaganda drivel. In summary, the acting was cartoonish with spoken (shouted) dialog (in any language) by actors phrased like they've been put on a hot-plate. Notwithstanding the historical topic, we can all agree that yes, fictionalizing drama amounts to good eye-catchers for profit. The CG and motion graphics -- which are perhaps the only true attraction cinematographically -- appear to be well-planned and funded, yet splatter the film with disgustingly cheap-looking scenes after scenes (despite the $80M budget?). Why there are 10-star reviews is perhaps the most surprising aspect of this film.

Whether you're a Taylor fan or not, this storytelling is masterful. Even if you leave out the soul-stirring songs and meaningful lyrics, this film accomplishes something we've not seen since in our generation's most trying times of wars, uncertainty, cultural and racial division. It jerks us awake to the fact that we, together, are living in one of those dire climates with COVID. The Vietnam War had Dylan to peel back our humanity and think about peace. John Lennon, too, lays bear how we really should treat one another.

In that caliber, and perhaps born from desperation, Taylor Swift invites us to be a part of this experience with other artists who collaborate. A part of this moment in history. In isolation, she manages to look further inward and blossoms an idea to turn a vulnerable situation into a new-normal discovery.

At the same time, she distinguishes herself yet again as a pure song-writer and artist. There's little doubt that other artists will re-think their true purpose for music creation. Shouldn't all artist be driven to create for the sake of the art, and less about the business motivation. Wouldn't that be nice. This is what happens when you remove the ego and affluent side of the process and bring back simplicity, purity.

The ensemble of song and phrasing leave you with a lasting impression that there are others who are experiencing what you are going through. That's powerful. And that's enduring.

Taylor Swift is a rare gift.

Simply beautifully thought-out film that will be long remembered as we approach space and other-world habitation. This film is sure to become a touchstone for lessons on humanity's path toward exploration of the universe.