jaysonpajaronvistal
Joined Oct 2022
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"Conclave," directed by Edward Berger, is a masterful exploration of one of the world's most secretive and ancient rituals: selecting a new pope. Berger's film delves deep into the clandestine corridors of the Vatican, offering viewers an introspective and suspense-laden journey through the political and spiritual machinations of the Catholic Church. In a cinematic landscape often dominated by blockbuster franchises and franchise sequels, this adaptation of Robert Harris's novel is a masterclass in suspense, introspection, and nuanced storytelling, elevated by exceptional performances and meticulous direction.
The film takes you right into the heart of the Vatican, where the sudden death of a beloved pope throws everything into chaos. I found myself drawn into this world where tradition and secrecy reign supreme. Ralph Fiennes, who never disappoints, plays Cardinal Lawrence. He's the guy who has to keep everything together during the conclave-the intense and secretive process of picking a new pope. As Lawrence navigates through this ancient ritual, he starts to uncover secrets that could shake the Church to its core. Watching him peel back these layers felt like going on a journey of discovery myself, wondering what I would uncover next.
Ralph Fiennes truly shines in his role as Cardinal Lawrence. I was struck by how he managed to convey so much with just a look or a slight change in his voice. He made Lawrence feel real and relatable, someone grappling with his doubts while trying to hold it all together. Fiennes has this incredible ability to balance authority with vulnerability, and it's hard not to think he deserves some serious award buzz for it. His portrayal is a study of restraint, capturing the internal struggles of a man caught between duty and doubt.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini each bring something unique to the film. Rossellini, even with her limited screen time, leaves a lasting impression. Her role as Sister Agnes really hit all the right buttons, highlighting the patriarchal nature of the Church, where nuns are silent servants expected to manage domestic duties without any recognition. She adds depth to the story, highlighting the inequalities and challenges within this powerful institution. Every small gesture she makes adds momentum to the narrative, making her presence felt long after she's off-screen.
Edward Berger, who impressed many with "All Quiet on the Western Front," really showcases his talent in "Conclave." His attention to detail and ability to build tension kept me on the edge of my seat. The way he paces the film is spot-on, letting the suspense grow naturally with each scene. Visually, the film is a treat; Berger captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the Vatican while cleverly contrasting it with the more modern, stark living spaces of the characters. This visual contrast subtly highlights the tension between tradition and modernity within the Church. The film maintains a quiet yet gripping tension throughout, thanks in no small part to Berger's careful direction and the stunning cinematography.
The cinematography in "Conclave," led by Stéphane Fontaine, is breathtaking. The way the film captures the grandeur and solemnity of the Vatican pulled me in. Every shot feels thoughtfully crafted, giving the story a sense of closeness and urgency that makes you feel like you're right there. The clever use of light and shadow adds layers to the film, emphasizing its themes of secrecy and revelation. Long lens shots further highlight the isolation of the conclave, making the viewer acutely aware of the gravity of the situation.
Volker Bertelmann's haunting score adds to this visual feast. The music wraps the film in a dark, heavy atmosphere, crucial for keeping the suspense alive. Each note seems to build on the tension, making the wait for that iconic puff of white smoke-a signal that a new pope has been elected-even more intense.
"Conclave" does not shy away from exploring dark and relevant themes with care and sensitivity. The film touches on issues such as queer rights, the role of women within the Church, religious corruption, and internal church politics with a deft hand, ensuring it addresses these topics without alienating its audience. The inclusion of a topic like laparoscopic hysterectomy might perplex some viewers. Still, it serves as a metaphor for the invasive scrutiny and the hidden, often painful truths lurking beneath the Church's surface. The film is multi-layered and quietly complex. It is a detective story, but more than that, it is a mystery.
Cardinal Lawrence's work becomes increasingly challenging as he uncovers secrets about the deceased Pope and the true nature of the new figure, Cardinal Benitez, who has been appointed without the knowledge of the other cardinals. The film's sonic language-murmured speech and susurrous ambient noises-creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, punctuated by occasional jarring moments that heighten the suspense.
The film challenges audiences to reflect on the nature of faith, power, and human fallibility. It is a meticulously crafted thriller that finds complexity and tension in the shadows of one of the world's most revered institutions. In an era where spectacle often overshadows substance, "Conclave" offers a refreshing alternative. It is an intelligent and thought-provoking film that invites viewers to engage with its complex narrative and explore the moral ambiguities within the corridors of power. Berger's film is a testament to the power of storytelling that respects its subject matter while delivering a gripping and tension-filled experience.
The film takes you right into the heart of the Vatican, where the sudden death of a beloved pope throws everything into chaos. I found myself drawn into this world where tradition and secrecy reign supreme. Ralph Fiennes, who never disappoints, plays Cardinal Lawrence. He's the guy who has to keep everything together during the conclave-the intense and secretive process of picking a new pope. As Lawrence navigates through this ancient ritual, he starts to uncover secrets that could shake the Church to its core. Watching him peel back these layers felt like going on a journey of discovery myself, wondering what I would uncover next.
Ralph Fiennes truly shines in his role as Cardinal Lawrence. I was struck by how he managed to convey so much with just a look or a slight change in his voice. He made Lawrence feel real and relatable, someone grappling with his doubts while trying to hold it all together. Fiennes has this incredible ability to balance authority with vulnerability, and it's hard not to think he deserves some serious award buzz for it. His portrayal is a study of restraint, capturing the internal struggles of a man caught between duty and doubt.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini each bring something unique to the film. Rossellini, even with her limited screen time, leaves a lasting impression. Her role as Sister Agnes really hit all the right buttons, highlighting the patriarchal nature of the Church, where nuns are silent servants expected to manage domestic duties without any recognition. She adds depth to the story, highlighting the inequalities and challenges within this powerful institution. Every small gesture she makes adds momentum to the narrative, making her presence felt long after she's off-screen.
Edward Berger, who impressed many with "All Quiet on the Western Front," really showcases his talent in "Conclave." His attention to detail and ability to build tension kept me on the edge of my seat. The way he paces the film is spot-on, letting the suspense grow naturally with each scene. Visually, the film is a treat; Berger captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the Vatican while cleverly contrasting it with the more modern, stark living spaces of the characters. This visual contrast subtly highlights the tension between tradition and modernity within the Church. The film maintains a quiet yet gripping tension throughout, thanks in no small part to Berger's careful direction and the stunning cinematography.
The cinematography in "Conclave," led by Stéphane Fontaine, is breathtaking. The way the film captures the grandeur and solemnity of the Vatican pulled me in. Every shot feels thoughtfully crafted, giving the story a sense of closeness and urgency that makes you feel like you're right there. The clever use of light and shadow adds layers to the film, emphasizing its themes of secrecy and revelation. Long lens shots further highlight the isolation of the conclave, making the viewer acutely aware of the gravity of the situation.
Volker Bertelmann's haunting score adds to this visual feast. The music wraps the film in a dark, heavy atmosphere, crucial for keeping the suspense alive. Each note seems to build on the tension, making the wait for that iconic puff of white smoke-a signal that a new pope has been elected-even more intense.
"Conclave" does not shy away from exploring dark and relevant themes with care and sensitivity. The film touches on issues such as queer rights, the role of women within the Church, religious corruption, and internal church politics with a deft hand, ensuring it addresses these topics without alienating its audience. The inclusion of a topic like laparoscopic hysterectomy might perplex some viewers. Still, it serves as a metaphor for the invasive scrutiny and the hidden, often painful truths lurking beneath the Church's surface. The film is multi-layered and quietly complex. It is a detective story, but more than that, it is a mystery.
Cardinal Lawrence's work becomes increasingly challenging as he uncovers secrets about the deceased Pope and the true nature of the new figure, Cardinal Benitez, who has been appointed without the knowledge of the other cardinals. The film's sonic language-murmured speech and susurrous ambient noises-creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, punctuated by occasional jarring moments that heighten the suspense.
The film challenges audiences to reflect on the nature of faith, power, and human fallibility. It is a meticulously crafted thriller that finds complexity and tension in the shadows of one of the world's most revered institutions. In an era where spectacle often overshadows substance, "Conclave" offers a refreshing alternative. It is an intelligent and thought-provoking film that invites viewers to engage with its complex narrative and explore the moral ambiguities within the corridors of power. Berger's film is a testament to the power of storytelling that respects its subject matter while delivering a gripping and tension-filled experience.
"Wicked" brings to life the untold tale of the witches from Oz, featuring the incredibly talented Cynthia Erivo, known for her award-winning performances in "Harriet" and Broadway's "The Color Purple," taking on the role of Elphaba--a young woman with distinctive green skin, often misunderstood, who is on a journey to discover her true potential. The Grammy-winning pop star Ariana Grande-Butera, played Glinda, a young woman who is both popular and ambitious, yet still searching for her true self. As students at Shiz University in the magical Land of Oz, the two form an unlikely but profound bond. However, after an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship is tested, leading them down separate paths.
As a theater kid, not by talent but by heart, I am no stranger to the magic of musicals and the transformative experiences that they offer. "Wicked," directed by Jon Chu, is the cinematic equivalent of the Marvel Universe for a theater kid like me. It's a beautiful world where the fantastical meets the profound, and the stage I once adored has now been expanded into a vibrant, larger-than-life universe. As someone who has held the world of Shiz and Oz close to my heart, Jon's adaptation is a grand-scale and beautifully crafted musical, an utterly flawless adaptation of the source material. Jon did not just make the "Wicked" world into this grandeur reality; he showed courage by creating his own vision of this already familiar world by adding more emotions and flair to the narrative and not entirely changing the story. It was a conscious decision that showed his respect and care for the source material. The film possesses a heart and vision that transcends and, indeed, defies gravity.
Ariana Grande-Butera and Cynthia Erivo took center stage as Glinda and Elphaba, and their performances are nothing short of extraordinary. Their chemistry is palpable, much like what we usually see in their press conference and interviews, capturing the beauty and complexity of their friendship that is the anchor of the film. The live singing and orchestration add another layer of magic to the film, creating an immersive experience that envelops the audience in the music. The score is grand and evocative, enhancing every emotional beat and elevating the narrative. For fans of the musical, like I am, these elements are a testament to the passion and talent of the entire creative team, who have succeeded in translating the essence of the stage production to the big screen.
As someone who has been following Ariana Grande since her days on "Victorious," I was genuinely surprised by her transformation as Glinda. This was not the pop star I'd come to know; instead, Ariana embraced her inner child and portrayed her role with sincerity and depth that was both unexpected and delightful. Her portrayal of Glinda is nuanced and layered, and you can see her channeling the young Ariana, who watched the musical when she was just 10 years old. Her naivety and childlike performance have captured the true essence of Glinda, a witch longing for popularity and validation from the people around her, and Madame Morrible, played by the Academy-Award winner Michelle Yeoh.
Cynthia Erivo, on the other hand, delivered an Oscar-worthy performance that is both powerful and poignant. Her rendition of "Defying Gravity" is a standout moment in the film, echoing with emotional intensity and vocal prowess. It's a performance that pays homage to the iconic legacy of "Adele Dazeem," known as Idina Menzel, while also carving out her own unique version. Cynthia's Elphaba is complex, vulnerable, and very humane, a portrayal that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Is she worthy of an Oscar nomination? Definitely.
As this is just the first part of a two-part adaptation, "Wicked" has set the stage for a continuation that promises to be equally compelling and moving. This film is a flawless adaptation, a celebration of talent and vision that showcases the incredible work of the cast and crew. From the visionary director to the outstanding performances from the leads down to the technical brilliance of the production team and music score, "Wicked" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of musicals.
In conclusion, "Wicked" is a triumphant film that expands the world of Oz and Shiz's universe in thrilling new ways. Whether you're a longtime fan of the stage musical or new to its enchanting tale, this film captured the essence of what makes the world of Wicked so special and unique-with its exploration of friendship, identity, and the courage to defy gravity. Chu's "Wicked" is a cinematic masterpiece that honors its roots while daring to soar to new heights, leaving audiences with a sense of awe and excitement for Part 2.
"Wicked" will forever be famous-well, Popular! (You see what I did there?)
As a theater kid, not by talent but by heart, I am no stranger to the magic of musicals and the transformative experiences that they offer. "Wicked," directed by Jon Chu, is the cinematic equivalent of the Marvel Universe for a theater kid like me. It's a beautiful world where the fantastical meets the profound, and the stage I once adored has now been expanded into a vibrant, larger-than-life universe. As someone who has held the world of Shiz and Oz close to my heart, Jon's adaptation is a grand-scale and beautifully crafted musical, an utterly flawless adaptation of the source material. Jon did not just make the "Wicked" world into this grandeur reality; he showed courage by creating his own vision of this already familiar world by adding more emotions and flair to the narrative and not entirely changing the story. It was a conscious decision that showed his respect and care for the source material. The film possesses a heart and vision that transcends and, indeed, defies gravity.
Ariana Grande-Butera and Cynthia Erivo took center stage as Glinda and Elphaba, and their performances are nothing short of extraordinary. Their chemistry is palpable, much like what we usually see in their press conference and interviews, capturing the beauty and complexity of their friendship that is the anchor of the film. The live singing and orchestration add another layer of magic to the film, creating an immersive experience that envelops the audience in the music. The score is grand and evocative, enhancing every emotional beat and elevating the narrative. For fans of the musical, like I am, these elements are a testament to the passion and talent of the entire creative team, who have succeeded in translating the essence of the stage production to the big screen.
As someone who has been following Ariana Grande since her days on "Victorious," I was genuinely surprised by her transformation as Glinda. This was not the pop star I'd come to know; instead, Ariana embraced her inner child and portrayed her role with sincerity and depth that was both unexpected and delightful. Her portrayal of Glinda is nuanced and layered, and you can see her channeling the young Ariana, who watched the musical when she was just 10 years old. Her naivety and childlike performance have captured the true essence of Glinda, a witch longing for popularity and validation from the people around her, and Madame Morrible, played by the Academy-Award winner Michelle Yeoh.
Cynthia Erivo, on the other hand, delivered an Oscar-worthy performance that is both powerful and poignant. Her rendition of "Defying Gravity" is a standout moment in the film, echoing with emotional intensity and vocal prowess. It's a performance that pays homage to the iconic legacy of "Adele Dazeem," known as Idina Menzel, while also carving out her own unique version. Cynthia's Elphaba is complex, vulnerable, and very humane, a portrayal that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Is she worthy of an Oscar nomination? Definitely.
As this is just the first part of a two-part adaptation, "Wicked" has set the stage for a continuation that promises to be equally compelling and moving. This film is a flawless adaptation, a celebration of talent and vision that showcases the incredible work of the cast and crew. From the visionary director to the outstanding performances from the leads down to the technical brilliance of the production team and music score, "Wicked" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of musicals.
In conclusion, "Wicked" is a triumphant film that expands the world of Oz and Shiz's universe in thrilling new ways. Whether you're a longtime fan of the stage musical or new to its enchanting tale, this film captured the essence of what makes the world of Wicked so special and unique-with its exploration of friendship, identity, and the courage to defy gravity. Chu's "Wicked" is a cinematic masterpiece that honors its roots while daring to soar to new heights, leaving audiences with a sense of awe and excitement for Part 2.
"Wicked" will forever be famous-well, Popular! (You see what I did there?)
The Outrun follows the story of Rona, played by Saoirse Ronan, a 29-year-old fresh out of rehab who returns to the island of Orkney after more than a decade of being away. As she reconnects with the dramatic landscape of where she grew up, memories of her childhood merge with the more recent challenging events that have set her on the path of recovery. The film is based on Amy Liptrot's memoir of the same name, directed by Nora Fingscheidt in a lyrical and free-form structure that is filled with metaphors and moods of fragmentation through the changes in the protagonist's hair, which shares the similarity of the film, "Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind."
Saoirse plays a young woman born in Orkney who has lived in London for over a decade to escape her tragic and traumatic childhood. Hoping to find freedom and joy, she instead formed a relationship with alcohol and parties, which led to her character becoming violent and depressed.
Rona's toxic involvement in alcohol leads to a violent and vulnerable situation, which ends up tearing her relationship with her boyfriend (Paapa Essiedu). Saoirse Ronan showcased her powerful yet painful performance in this involving addiction-recovery drama. I think it's safe to say that Ronan is one of the best actresses of this generation. Everything she does in this film shows how much power and authenticity she shows to her character, from subtle and poignant expressions to violent drunk acting. It's a range that only a few actresses in this generation can pull off, and Saoirse handled her character in a careful yet personal manner.
Stories about addiction, depression, and isolation always resonate with me on a personal level. It's a topic I hold dear mainly because of how much I relate to these kinds of stories, and "The Outrun" is one of those films that hits you in the right places. The film is crafted carefully, making sure that they are not just highlighting the struggles and chaotic path of a person with an addiction but also showing the continuous journey of someone's soul entangled in addiction. This is where I think the film felt very personal and honest, as it does not try to manipulate the viewers by showing the intense tantrums or breakdowns of a person with an addiction --- it's not that these scenes are absent in the movie, but they treated it like it's less pivotal. Instead, they showed us more of Rona's road to recovery.
On the road to recovering from addiction, it's essential to confront your past and find the root cause of it. In Rona's case, it was because of her troubled childhood with a bipolar father, in which she witnessed severe episodes, and a religious mother---these factors posed a question to Rona: was her addiction nature or nurtured? Even the title of the film, "The Outrun," refers to the remote island of Orkney that isn't suitable for farming and is constantly battered by strong waves and winds, which could serve as a metaphor for Ronan's character. The film allows the viewers to experience the wonders and beauty of the island, yet it's intimidating and mysterious, coated by its peace and quiet nature. The Island Orkney does not just serve as a backdrop of the film, but rather, it serves as a metaphor throughout the story, mirroring Rona's inner world.
The wild and untamed nature of the island Orkney reflects Rona's chaotic past and the isolation she feels due to her addiction. The islands' perilous cliffs, unpredictable weather, and vast, open spaces symbolize freedom and the threat of confronting one's demons. The harsh yet majestic Orkney underscores Rona's journey toward self-discovery and healing. The island becomes a sanctuary, offering her the clarity and peace needed to face her addiction. The cyclical nature of the tides and the relentless winds serve as metaphors for the ebb and flow of her recovery process, emphasizing the ongoing struggle and resilience required to overcome addiction.
In conclusion, "The Outrun" is a beautifully crafted exploration of addiction and recovery, brought to life by Saoirse Ronan's powerful performance. The film does more than depict the turmoil of Rona's addiction; it captures the essence of her journey toward healing with authenticity and grace. Director Nora Fingscheidt's lyrical approach, combined with the haunting beauty of the Orkney Islands, creates a powerful metaphor for Rona's internal struggles and resilience. "The Outrun" stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us that, much like the island's rugged landscape, the journey to recovery is both challenging and beautiful.
"Let's start one day at a time."
Saoirse plays a young woman born in Orkney who has lived in London for over a decade to escape her tragic and traumatic childhood. Hoping to find freedom and joy, she instead formed a relationship with alcohol and parties, which led to her character becoming violent and depressed.
Rona's toxic involvement in alcohol leads to a violent and vulnerable situation, which ends up tearing her relationship with her boyfriend (Paapa Essiedu). Saoirse Ronan showcased her powerful yet painful performance in this involving addiction-recovery drama. I think it's safe to say that Ronan is one of the best actresses of this generation. Everything she does in this film shows how much power and authenticity she shows to her character, from subtle and poignant expressions to violent drunk acting. It's a range that only a few actresses in this generation can pull off, and Saoirse handled her character in a careful yet personal manner.
Stories about addiction, depression, and isolation always resonate with me on a personal level. It's a topic I hold dear mainly because of how much I relate to these kinds of stories, and "The Outrun" is one of those films that hits you in the right places. The film is crafted carefully, making sure that they are not just highlighting the struggles and chaotic path of a person with an addiction but also showing the continuous journey of someone's soul entangled in addiction. This is where I think the film felt very personal and honest, as it does not try to manipulate the viewers by showing the intense tantrums or breakdowns of a person with an addiction --- it's not that these scenes are absent in the movie, but they treated it like it's less pivotal. Instead, they showed us more of Rona's road to recovery.
On the road to recovering from addiction, it's essential to confront your past and find the root cause of it. In Rona's case, it was because of her troubled childhood with a bipolar father, in which she witnessed severe episodes, and a religious mother---these factors posed a question to Rona: was her addiction nature or nurtured? Even the title of the film, "The Outrun," refers to the remote island of Orkney that isn't suitable for farming and is constantly battered by strong waves and winds, which could serve as a metaphor for Ronan's character. The film allows the viewers to experience the wonders and beauty of the island, yet it's intimidating and mysterious, coated by its peace and quiet nature. The Island Orkney does not just serve as a backdrop of the film, but rather, it serves as a metaphor throughout the story, mirroring Rona's inner world.
The wild and untamed nature of the island Orkney reflects Rona's chaotic past and the isolation she feels due to her addiction. The islands' perilous cliffs, unpredictable weather, and vast, open spaces symbolize freedom and the threat of confronting one's demons. The harsh yet majestic Orkney underscores Rona's journey toward self-discovery and healing. The island becomes a sanctuary, offering her the clarity and peace needed to face her addiction. The cyclical nature of the tides and the relentless winds serve as metaphors for the ebb and flow of her recovery process, emphasizing the ongoing struggle and resilience required to overcome addiction.
In conclusion, "The Outrun" is a beautifully crafted exploration of addiction and recovery, brought to life by Saoirse Ronan's powerful performance. The film does more than depict the turmoil of Rona's addiction; it captures the essence of her journey toward healing with authenticity and grace. Director Nora Fingscheidt's lyrical approach, combined with the haunting beauty of the Orkney Islands, creates a powerful metaphor for Rona's internal struggles and resilience. "The Outrun" stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us that, much like the island's rugged landscape, the journey to recovery is both challenging and beautiful.
"Let's start one day at a time."