Reel Reviews: The Film File
Welcome to our little corner of the movie world! Here, we look at films with fresh eyes and honest opinions. From the newest releases to hidden gems and timeless classics, we’ve got something for everyone—casual watchers and die-hard movie lovers alike. Let’s dive into the art, storytelling, and cultural impact of cinema, sharing the best and not-so-great moments from the big screen.
1. Her Story
Image Credit: Rotten tomatoes
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai, the film follows single mother Wang Tiemei (Song Jia) and her daughter, Wang Moli (Zeng Mumei), as they settle into a new home. There, they meet their neighbor, Xiao Ye (Zhong Chuxi), whose gentle spontaneity contrasts with Wang Tiemei’s practical nature. As their bond deepens, they support each other in overcoming personal struggles. Complicating Wang Tiemei’s quest for stability are her ex-husband (Mark Chao) and her daughter’s drum teacher, Xiao Ma (Zhang Yu), who add layers to her journey. The narrative thoughtfully explores themes of personal growth and self-discovery, inviting viewers to reflect on how challenges reshape their identities and relationships.
2. The Room Next Door
Image Credit: IMDb
Ingrid (Julliane Moore) and Martha (Tilda Swinton) were once inseparable friends, having shared their early careers at the same magazine. However, life pulled them apart, and years passed without contact. Their reunion comes under heartbreaking circumstances when Ingrid, a successful author, learns that Martha is facing terminal cancer. Motivated by a sense of duty and love, Ingrid reaches out to reconnect. Together, they move to a serene country house, where they share profound conversations that reflect on their past, the present, and what lies ahead. As Martha grapples with her desire to end her life, Ingrid stands by her side, embracing the bittersweet journey of their renewed friendship, forever cherishing the memories they create together. The film premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it was awarded with the Golden Lion.
3. y2K
Image Credit: IMP Awards
In 1999, best friends Eli, Danny, and Garrett plan a New Year’s Eve while their parents are away. Eli has a crush on Laura but is too shy to tell her. When she sneaks out to a party with friends, the boys crash it, only for Eli to see Laura’s boyfriend kiss her at midnight. But the night takes a dark turn when technology comes to life and starts attacking them. Now, joined by a group of misfits, they must fight against a dangerous force called the “Amalgamation,” which wants to take over humanity. Laura creates a code to stop it, and with Eli’s help, they shut it down just in time. As dawn breaks, they share a kiss, but years later, a glitch hints that the threat isn’t truly over. The movie blends sci-fi, horror, and teen drama, offering an exciting mix of suspense, action, and heartfelt moments about friendship and courage.
4. Nosferatu
Image Credit: Moviefone
In the 1800s, young Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), longing for companionship, unknowingly binds herself to a mysterious supernatural being. Years later, her husband Thomas is sent to sell an old castle to Count Orlok, a feared vampire. As Thomas uncovers Orlok’s dark influence over Ellen and their town, he learns she once made a pact with the vampire, and now he’s back to claim her soul. With the town in danger, Thomas and scientist Von Franz devise a plan to stop Orlok. In a heartbreaking sacrifice, Ellen gives her life to break the vampire’s curse, freeing Thomas and their town. The film blends gothic horror and romance, offering a haunting tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
5. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl
Image Credit: MUBI
Shula (Susan Chardy), dressed in an outfit reminiscent of Missy Elliott’s iconic look from the “Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” music video, stands over the lifeless body of her beloved Uncle Fred, who lies in the middle of a moonlit road. Surprisingly unfazed by the shocking and absurd nature of his death, Shula methodically takes the necessary actions: she calls the authorities, informs her family, and remains with the body until morning. However, her emotional detachment hints at deeper issues beyond just her uncle’s unexpected demise. Delving into themes of familial trauma and the complexities of cultural and generational divides, writer-director Rungano Nyoni’s second feature, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, explores these dynamics with a blend of ethereal and confrontational storytelling. This film follows in the footsteps of Nyoni’s acclaimed debut, I Am Not a Witch, also featuring a protagonist named Shula. In both works, Nyoni tells the story of women striving to break free from traditional constraints and pave their own way despite pushback from conservative communities.
Great films have the power to challenge our perspectives, evoke empathy, and inspire change. Each of these movies offers a unique journey into the human experience, encouraging viewers to embrace different perspectives and find meaning in the stories we share.
Staff Reporter
