With 2011 officially in the books, it’s time once again to look back and reflect on some of the best films that have come out in the past year. As with all movie writers, coming up with a list like this is usually expected, but also damn near impossible. To me, reading and writing these types of articles are only beneficial in spreading word about titles that really had an effect on me, while stirring up debate between those who strongly agree with my choices, or vehemently disagree. No one list is ever truly definitive; what is considered great to one may not register the same way to another. The only real truth is that 2011 had a wide range of very interesting and fascinating films, and just like every year, there’s always a good handful worth noting.
What We’re Watching – 5/26/2011
Looking over some of the films I’ve recently seen, I’ve noticed that my taste in movies ranges dramatically. From a 1950s Italian comedy to a 1980s tense thriller to a 2011 movie with pirates and mermaids, it seems that there really isn’t a place in film that I won’t at least try (except, of course, snuff films and things like that—thanks but no thanks). It’s hard to limit my taste, because to disregard a certain kind of movie means dismissing a film that you may potentially love if you gave it a shot. Sometimes, I wish I were only interested in one specific genre of film, but alas, that is not the case, and when thinking about it, knowing that I’m drawn to all kinds of genres has led me to only one absolute: I need to watch more movies.
Film Review – 13 Assassins
When I heard Takashi Miike’s film 13 Assassins would be shown at the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, I knew I had to go. I didn’t even care what genre of film it was. Normally, Miike is known for his mind-melting horror films, but I had heard this was a little more traditional. I just appreciate Miike’s warped view on putting amazingly beautiful scenes together with horrific content that really pushes the envelope of most white-bread people. With the added excitement of someone passing out in the theater, forcing the venue to stop the film so the paramedics could come, this movie was pretty much what I expected. Good samurai vs. bad samurai and lots of swords. But, extremely well done.
Film Review – Sukiyaki Western Django
Sukiyaki Western Django – If you’re not familiar with Takashi Miike, then you should move out of the box you’re living in and get some culture – I say that, but by crawling out of that box, you’ll be opening yourself up for one of the most messed up minds in Japanese horror/gore/weird films. When Miike makes a western, you’ll pay attention. Sukiyaki Western Django is a samurai western – yes, Japanese cowboys with swords. Where’s the bad?!?
