Gone Girl: David Fincher’s methodical, detail-oriented filmmaking is probably the best way to tell this story that, more than most, depends not only on what is told, but also on the way it’s told. The plot doesn’t hide its pulpy origin (nothing wrong with that) and is fun to follow; furthermore, it touches many different issues that make it richer than a first look would suggest. Technically, the film is a beauty: Jeff Cronenweth’s camerawork is simple but precise, always spot […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama, thriller

The Spy Who Came in from the Cold: Richard Burton creates a subtle, great portrait in this cold, unromantic yet thrilling (in a fashion) view of the world of espionage. The serpentine plot is rather interesting and well put together. Oswald Morris’ camera work is dynamic and elegant; the lighting is curiously hard. It certainly was a creative decision with director Martin Ritt: the characters, for the most part, are scrutinized and shown in very unflattering ways by the story; […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama, thriller

Prisoners: thriller that goes beyond (but not much) the usual when telling the story, and while the plot falls in some of the same pits, the characters raise this film above the genre’s average. It’s, however, almost an unpleasant experience, full of dread. The cast is very good, both on paper and on the screen. (Not that Maria Bello and Viola Davis have all that much to do, or Terrence Howard, for that matter.) Visually, it’s beautifully functional; unsurprising since […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama, thriller