I’ve been hearing movie fans complain that “there’s nothing to see” at the movie theaters.
Of course, what they might mean, is that there are no BIG blockbuster movies that they feel compelled to go see on the big screen. Or perhaps, they live somewhere with no art-house cinemas, and the local multiplex is only screening horror films or children’s programming? Whatever the reason, I’m here to say, they’re WRONG. There’s plenty of thought-provoking, funny, interesting films right now. I’d like to rally support for Independent Cinema.
First, let’s talk about the assumption that the only movies worth a trip to the theater are action films. It amazes me that folks seem to view the cost of a movie ticket as prohibitive. You’ll spend $15 for a craft cocktail that’s gone in minutes…but you won’t part with the same amount for an hour and a half to two hours of entertainment? I wish Americans would get back into the habit of enjoying the shared experience of film. Be it a comedy, animation, drama, or romance, the experience is enhanced by the collective laughter/tears/gasps of an audience. Even if you have to put up with rude patrons on their cellphones, it’s still less distracting than streaming at home with your own phone nearby.
There are a trio of films that are adapted from popular books. They are all crowd-pleasers that here on the Main Line (outside Philadelphia) have remained in theaters for weeks. “The Friend” stars Naomi Watts and a very large dog. It’s charming and has a fun cameo appearance by Bill Murray. It’s based on the NYTimes Bestseller. “The Penguin Lessons” is based on a true story and is both amusing and tender. Steve Coogan stars and provides his dry wit and deadpan humor but also a wistfulness in his role. The story ends with a life lesson and a bit of tragic history that’s also a reflection on our current regime. Find my reviews on Drinks With Films on Instagram.
The film that I found the most intriguing, “On Swift Horses” was another book adaptation. This period romance features a cast of hot young actors and gives them the chance to shine…and smolder. Jacob Elordi is perfectly cast as the lanky, lean, man of mystery. He’s a great match to the character played by Daisy Edgar-Jones. She’s the young woman who doesn’t want to be constrained by 50’s societal constraints and sexual mores. I didn’t buy the romantic bond between Elordi’s character and Diego Calva, but the female characters all seemed authentic in both their portrayal of a taboo love but also their need to be free from judgement. 🍸🍸🍸 1/2 Stingers gulped for courage at an “undercover” Gay Bar (pre-LGBTQ acronyms) out of 5
If you’re hungering for more LGBTQ fare, this is a great time to go to the movies. I haven’t seen the sweet Indian romance, “A Nice Indian Boy“. The trailer makes it look charming. Jonathon Groff and Karan Soni have great chemistry. We can use another queer rom-com. In need of some joy, I went to see “The Wedding Banquet”. I loved the original film (1993) but only have vague memories of it. I was sure I’d enjoy this version directed by Andrew Ahn because I liked “Fire Island” which also starred Bowen Yang. “The Wedding Banquet” (written by Ahn & James Schamus) surprised me. I got verklempt more than once. What a sweet film about family. It celebrates familial bonds that can both define us and constrain us…but also the chosen family that can provide a richness and meaning to our lives. I gave it: 3 1/2 shots slammed at a dance club causing some life-changing consequences on my Instagram feed.
For those looking for a big spectacle; a more action-oriented film, there’s the drama/horror film, “Sinners”. Michael B Jordan does a phenomenal job of playing the dual roles of the twin brothers, Smoke and Stack. Director Ryan Coogler is a master at creating an atmosphere and period that is deeply resonant. I felt I could smell the dust and sweat…and later, the metallic tang of blood spilled. All of the characters are well-cast though it’s hard to let them all have much of a back-story when there are so many. Hailee Steinfeld is particularly good as the woman straddling two worlds and Wuni Mosaku is a force to be reckoned with as the moral center of story. But it’s Jack O’Connell as the villain thirsting not just for blood, but for access to musical divinity, that will make you pray for daylight. 4 shots of corn liquor (moonshine) at the juke joint (out of 5)
Before the summer movie releases arrive with a deluge of superheroes and comic book movies, I hope you’ll make a plan to see an Independent Film. We need to support creative voices and complex storytelling. No one wants to be inundated with only sequels and violent action films. All of these films celebrate a unique vision from filmmakers and are worthy of your time and your cinema dollars.
Drinks with films 