
romance
Gran Hotel – TV Review
I haven’t reviewed any movies lately because for the past few weeks I’ve been glued to this addictive Spanish TV series… so why not review it.
The Wings of the Dove – Film Review
Beautifully shot and acted adaptation of the Henry James novel, with Helena Bonham Carter in what could be her finest performance to date.
(500) Days of Summer – Film Review
I missed out on this unconventional romantic comedy when it was first released ten years ago, so when I was in a mood for something light last week I thought I’d give it a go. Though it has some issues and its penchant for indie quirk and twee soundtrack are at times mildly grating, in the end it’s a charmer.
The Shape of Water – Film Review
I’ve yet to see a Guillermo del Toro film that made me a true believer, but this visually ravishing adult fairytale came closest, and is easily the one I’ve enjoyed the most. At the very least, you gotta admire him for tackling a premise that many would find way too icky with such sincerity.
Crazy Rich Asians – Film Review
This charming and entertaining romantic comedy is proof that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel or poke fun at the genre tropes; when done well there’s nothing like Happily Ever After to override your inner realist and leave you with a big smile on your face.
The Fly – Film Review
I broke my tradition of never going out on a Monday night during a working week to watch this 1986 David Cronenberg horror film at the Astor Theatre.
A Star is Born – Film Review
There are few things more enjoyable than a big bold old-fashioned melodrama done well, and this new version of an old story with Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga is melodrama with a whole lot of heart done very very well.
The Piano – Film Review
I can’t believe I’ve overlooked this 1993 Jane Campion masterpiece for so long, though on the other hand I doubt I’d have appreciated it as much as a teenager; its bleak yet sensuous atmosphere, literary vibe and complicated relationships probably resonate better with my older self.
Dirty Dancing – Film Review
Well that’s another 80s Movie I’ve Never Seen off my list. Watching popular films from decades ago for the first time can be a hit-and-miss experience (sorry Flashdance but I can’t see what everyone saw in you), but Dirty Dancing I thought had undeniable charm and appeal that goes beyond mere nostalgia and hype.