Five I Also Saw - 2019

Every year, I see films which were released at least ten years ago. Some stick out to me; they are classics, controversial, influential, or just pique my interest. They are listed in order I enjoyed them in 2019.

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1. 8 ½ (Italy) by Federic Fellini. A film about filmmaking by the masterful director, Federic Fellini with one of the greatest actors, Marcello Mastroianni. Fellini’s films defy a singular sentence to describe them. I can only say it is a visual, tasteful, and oratory treat.

2. Incendies (2010) by Denis Villenueve. Although a major complaint about this film it is “too drawn out,” but I would argue Denis Villenueve is not wasteful or heavy handed in his approach. As I sunk into this film, I wanted to know more because of Villenueve’s drive, intricate storytelling, fine-tuned picks for actors/actresses, and the strings of mysteries planted throughout this twisted film.

3. Get Carter (UK) by Mike Hodges. – One of Michael Caine’s best films. The cinematography is striking and raw in this crime thriller. The feeling throughout this film was being uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable being thrown into the seedy world of assassins and how each character never shows their true intentions. This is a gem for any crime thriller fan needs to see.

4. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958) by Richard Brooks. – Full of a master ensemble cast, headed by Burl Ives, Paul Newman, and Elizabeth Taylor, this film is a treat with seething dialogue, honest performances, and delicate family relationships. There is not one actor who shines because everyone involved is brilliant.

5. Who’s That Knocking At My Door (1967) by Martin Scorsese. A young Harvey Keitel and an up-and-coming director, Scorsese, equals a biting film about coping, young love, and bravura. It shows Scorsese’s experimentation with various styles and inquisitive looks into his distinct storytelling.