The Last Showgirl

The Last Showgirl

A Brisk, Sympathetic Character Study of Erasure

★★★☆☆

A surprising career-best for Pamela Anderson that navigates the merciless reality of aging.

Directed by Gia Coppola, The Last Showgirl is an entertaining character study of a performer past her prime, forced to contemplate her life choices after the closing of her long-running Las Vegas show. The film features a surprisingly strong and sympathetic performance from Pamela Anderson, who taps into the inherent difficulties of aging in the entertainment industry and the sacrifices made to maintain a chosen lifestyle.

"It’s a relief that the material doesn’t overstay its welcome or create additional unnecessary drama to pad the running time like many award season films are apt to do."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Gia Coppola
• Starring: Pamela Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis
• Supporting: Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka
• Runtime: Brisk (under 90 minutes)

Female Perspective on Stardom

While movies like The Wrestler or Bull Durham have explored similar themes of the "washed-up" professional, Coppola offers a necessary female perspective on these tropes. The entire ensemble delivers solid work, particularly Jamie Lee Curtis and Dave Bautista. The film succeeds by remaining tight and focused, avoiding the bloated melodrama typical of prestige cinema while allowing Anderson to deliver what is undoubtedly her defining career achievement.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The "Pamelaissance": This film is widely considered Pamela Anderson's dramatic "breakout" role, leading to significant Best Actress buzz during the 2024-2025 awards circuit.
• Coppola Legacy: Director Gia Coppola is the granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola and niece of Sofia Coppola, continuing the family's tradition of intimate character dramas.
• Vegas Roots: The film captures the specific, fading glamour of "Old Vegas" showgirl culture, a world that has largely been replaced by modern residencies.

✅ Pros

• A career-defining, breakout performance by Pamela Anderson.
• Lean, brisk pacing that avoids unnecessary "awards season" padding.
• Solid ensemble work across the board from Bautista to Curtis.

❌ Cons

• Navigates some very familiar and inevitable genre tropes.
• Lacks the raw grit found in similar films like The Wrestler.

🏆 Final Verdict

A piece Pamela Anderson can be deeply proud of. The Last Showgirl is a poignant, well-acted reminder of the human cost of show business. Hopefully, Hollywood allows her to explore more characters of this complexity in the future.

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September 5

September 5

A Riveting Procedural in the Eye of the Storm

★★★½☆

A brisk, high-pressure newsroom drama that captures the collision of sports and tragedy.

Directed with impressive precision by Tim Fehlbaum, September 5 depicts the infamous Olympic Village hostage crisis at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Unlike Spielberg's Munich, which focuses on the aftermath, this film captures the frenetic pressure faced by the ABC Sports team as they were thrust into a global news story. It is a masterful look at how camaraderie and capability shine under unusual, demanding circumstances.

"Proving that an effective award season drama doesn't have to be 3 hours long... September 5 is a brisk, well-paced hour and 35 minutes."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Broadcast Details

• Director: Tim Fehlbaum
• Starring: Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, Leonie Benesch
• Setting: ABC Sports Broadcast Center, Munich 1972
• Runtime: 95 Minutes

Technical Immersion

The film expertly flips between authentic vintage news footage and cinematic re-enactments, providing audiences with a "behind-the-lens" perspective of iconic historical moments. While the entire ensemble is strong, Leonie Benesch stands out as a German translator whose character embodies the hopes of a post-war generation seeking to overcome national stigma. The film juxtaposes the news team’s professional triumph against the tragic, overwhelmed efforts of the local police, creating a gripping tension throughout.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Real-Life Inspiration: The film is heavily based on the experiences of Geoffrey Mason and the legendary Roone Arledge, who revolutionized sports broadcasting.
• Historical Accuracy: The production meticulously recreated the 1970s ABC control room, using period-accurate technology to enhance the "procedural" feel.
• A Newsroom Classic: Critics have hailed it as a modern companion to All the President's Men for its focus on the ethics and mechanics of breaking news.

✅ Pros

• Expertly paced and brisk runtime (1h 35m).
• Impressive blending of archival footage with new scenes.
• Standout performance from Leonie Benesch.

❌ Cons

• Received minimal awards season recognition despite its quality.
• The procedural nature may feel clinical to some viewers.

🏆 Final Verdict

A riveting, top-tier newsroom drama. September 5 deserves far more recognition than it received during its initial release. It serves as a perfect companion piece to Munich and is a must-watch for fans of historical thrillers.

View origninal review on Letterboxd

The Brutalist

The Brutalist

An Ambitious Deconstruction of the American Dream

★★★½☆

An intriguing yet uneven spectacle that aims for the grand scale of Hollywood’s past.

Directed by Brady Corbet, The Brutalist is an intriguing yet uneven cinematic spectacle. It aims to deliver the large, epic mature storytelling of big Hollywood films of the past, even featuring an Overture, an intermission, and the VistaVision widescreen format. The actual story is an ambitious deconstruction of the American Dream told through the character study of László Toth (Adrien Brody), a broken yet talented architect struggling to exist in a post-WWII society.

"The film like its protagonist is disjointed and uncomfortable. Which is by design and often challenges the audience with presenting fleshed out characters who are messily, flawed and unabashedly human."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Epic Credentials

• Director: Brady Corbet
• Starring: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce
• Format: 70mm VistaVision
• Runtime: 3 hours 35 minutes (with Intermission)

A Monumental Scale

Director Brady Corbet effectively juxtaposes the beauty of nature with the turmoil and brutality of society. Some of the imagery and visual set pieces are truly awe-inspiring. However, as admirable as it is to present realistic and fully dimensional characters, the film lacks a powerful narrative driving force to ascend the storytelling to the next level. It results in a fascinating but not exactly engaging experience that falls just short of greatness.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• VistaVision Revival: This is the first film in decades to utilize the high-fidelity VistaVision format for its entire production.
• Award Pedigree: Adrien Brody has been widely praised for this "career-best" performance, marking a significant return to leading man status in prestige cinema.
• Venice Success: The film received a 12-minute standing ovation at its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival.

✅ Pros

• Jaw-dropping visual set pieces and technical ambition.
• Fleshed out, messily human characters that feel uncompromisingly "adult."
• A massive, epic tone reminiscent of Hollywood's golden age.

❌ Cons

• Lacks a powerful narrative emotional through-line.
• Disjointed and uncomfortable pacing may alienate some viewers.
• Ambition doesn't always translate into a rewarding experience.

🏆 Final Verdict

There is a lot to like in The Brutalist, but unfortunately not much to love. While its technical mastery is undeniable, the lack of an inspiring story to match the epic tone makes it an experience more to be admired than enjoyed.

View original review on Letterboxd

Captain America Brave New World

Captain America: Brave New World

An Interesting, Exciting Ride in a World of Heavy Expectations

★★★☆☆

A serviceable entry that shines when it stops trying to be a franchise-altering event.

Directed by Julius Onah, Captain America: Brave New World carries the heavy burden of succeeding the massive Deadpool & Wolverine and the critically acclaimed Rogers trilogy. While the production's reported "creative chaos" is visible in some rushed character injections, the film remains an exciting ride. It successfully introduces high-stakes political threads, specifically the global scramble for Adamantium mined from the Tiamut Celestial.

"I believe we, as viewers, should just go back to our initial expectations for Marvel films. Which is just to have a little fun for awhile while watching a story with friends and family."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 MCU Intel

• Captain America: Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson)
• President Thaddeus Ross: Harrison Ford
• Key Support: Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly
• Legacy Tie-in: The Eternals (Tiamut Island)

The Weight of Legacy

Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford both shine, providing the necessary gravitas for a story grappling with the rebuilding of the Avengers. While the military's logic in facing the Red Hulk is questionable, and some supporting characters like those played by Giancarlo Esposito feel underwritten, the film finds its heart in the relationship between Sam and Joaquin Torres. It’s an interesting ride that succeeds if taken at face value rather than as a cinematic masterwork.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Adamantium Debut: This film marks the official MCU introduction of Adamantium, the metal traditionally associated with Wolverine.
• The Leader Returns: Tim Blake Nelson reprises his role as Samuel Sterns for the first time since 2008's The Incredible Hulk.
• Ford's First Flight: This is Harrison Ford's first appearance in the MCU, taking over the role of "Thunderbolt" Ross following the passing of William Hurt.

✅ Pros

• Strong lead performances from Mackie and Harrison Ford.
• Compelling political world-building regarding Adamantium.
• Emotional core provided by Isiah Bradley and Joaquin Torres.

❌ Cons

• Evidence of "creative tinkering" and awkward plot points.
• Telegraphed "mind control" plot that tests character intelligence.
• Antagonists presented in shadows and quick cuts.

🏆 Final Verdict

Captain America: Brave New World isn't the best in the MCU, but it is certainly not the worst. It’s a fun, exciting blockbuster that rewards those who set aside insurmountable expectations for a simple, solid Marvel story.

View original review on Letterboxd

The One Armed Executioner

 

The One-Armed Executioner (1983)

A Standard-Bearer of Filipino Exploitation Excellence

★★★☆☆

Watched 01 Feb 2025 — A passion-fueled revenge flick that proves limited resources are no match for pure cinematic ingenuity.

Directed by Bobby A. Suarez, The One-Armed Executioner is a definitive 80s Filipino revenge exploitation film. While working under substantial deficiencies compared to big-budget Hollywood fare, the film leans into its limitations with admirable professionalism. Starring Filipino icon Franco Guerrero, the production treats its simple revenge plot with the reverence of a passion project. It’s a film that survives the test of time not through polish, but through the palpable "blood, sweat, and tears" ingrained in every frame.

"The fact that it's an exploitation film isn't a weakness but actually a strength... The best exploitation films don't view limited resources as a detriment but lean into it by doing the best they can."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Bobby A. Suarez
• Starring: Franco Guerrero
• Supporting: Jodie Fisher, Mike Cohen, Pete Cooper
• Genre: Martial Arts / Exploitation

The Vision

Suarez’s vision aims for the height of Shaw Brothers martial arts epics, even if the resources aren't quite there. The result is a fun, creative "popcorn movie" that benefits from Guerrero's affable lead performance. While the choreography isn't as physically gifted as its Hong Kong inspirations, the vision is grounded in a "reverence" for the genre. Suarez and Guerrero overcome obstacles through sheer effort, making the film's "unintentionally funny moments" part of its enduring charm rather than a detraction.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Cult Restoration: The film gained a second life among Western cult film fans after being featured by [Vinegar Syndrome](https://vinegarsyndrome.com) and other boutique labels specializing in genre cinema.
• The Suarez Signature: Director Bobby A. Suarez was known as the "Master of Filipino Action," often co-producing his films for international markets to maximize his limited budgets.
• Stunt Realism: Despite the lack of formal training compared to Shaw Bros actors, many of the stunts in these [Filipino action films](https://en.wikipedia.org) were performed with very few safety measures, adding to the raw "visceral" energy mentioned in the review.

✅ Pros

• Infectious passion and ingenuity on display.
• Exceptional direction for a low-budget production.
• Highly enjoyable as a "group watch" with friends.

❌ Cons

• Choreography is unpolished compared to Shaw Bros classics.
• Features some unintentionally funny "amateur" acting.
• Requires a specific "exploitation prism" to fully appreciate.

🏆 Final Verdict

A hidden gem that turns its deficiencies into strengths. If you appreciate the blood and sweat of independent genre filmmaking, this executioner is worthy of your time. Check it out when you want some pure, unadulterated fun.

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Heretic

Heretic

A Theological Thriller of Passive-Aggressive Nihilism

★★★☆☆

An intriguing diversion anchored by a delightfully creepy performance from Hugh Grant.

Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, Heretic is a theological thriller that uses the popular horror device of characters being trapped by their own politeness. Two Mormon missionaries find themselves in a cat-and-mouse game with the mysterious Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). While the tension ratchets up effectively using classic suspense tropes, the film's core is a debate on the merits of religion and belief—a discussion that proves to be as elaborate as it is ultimately dismissive.

"Heretic is not scary enough to be a great horror film and it's not cerebral enough to be a great think piece. So what we are stuck with is an intriguing diversion."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Production Brief

• Directors: Scott Beck & Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place writers)
• Starring: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East
• Studio: A24
• Themes: Religious skepticism, Societal compliance, Nihilism

The Performance Anchor

The primary draw of the film is Hugh Grant, who delivers a masterclass in passive-aggressive threat. He excellently alternates between being a thought-provoking philosopher and a formidable physical danger. Alongside Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, the trio maintains a high-quality production feel. However, the film stumbles in its philosophical payoff, bringing up half-hearted arguments that dissolve into a "glossy, yet frivolous admonition of uncertainty" rather than a meaningful conclusion.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Monopoly Connection: The film's elaborate debate includes a lengthy, fascinating analogy involving the history of board games and religious iteration.
• Blueberry Pie: The scent of a blueberry pie plays a pivotal, sensory role in the film's exploration of "evidence" and belief.
• A24 Style: This marks another collaboration between the Quiet Place writers and A24, leaning into their "elevated horror" aesthetic.

✅ Pros

• Surprisingly strong and dynamic lead performances.
• Top-notch production value and atmospheric tension.
• A fun, twisty "cat and mouse" structure.

❌ Cons

• Philosophical arguments lack a meaningful or strong payoff.
• Not terrifying enough for horror purists.
• Premise dissolves into a somewhat frivolous ending.

🏆 Final Verdict

Recommended strictly for the performances, particularly Grant’s creepy turn. While it doesn't quite succeed as a deep philosophical discussion or a visceral horror masterpiece, it remains an intriguing diversion for those who enjoy a well-crafted thriller.

View original review on Letterboxd

Ride Lonesome

 

Ride Lonesome (1959)

A Handsome, Lean Saturday Matinee Classic

★★★☆☆

Watched 27 Jan 2025 — A masterclass in minimalist Western filmmaking that turns a low budget into a riveting morality tale.

Directed by the legendary Budd Boetticher and starring the stoic Randolph Scott, Ride Lonesome is a lean, expertly crafted action yarn. The story follows a bounty hunter escorting a violent prisoner through a landscape filled with characters harboring their own hidden agendas. Known for his briskly paced "Ranown" cycle of Westerns, Boetticher creates a film that alternates seamlessly between thrilling action and talky dialogue. It is a work that captures the cozy nostalgia of a Saturday matinee while delivering a compelling, visually engrossing experience.

"It's impressive to see how well a movie can be made and how much could be accomplished with just strong writing, open land, first class direction and a committed cast and crew."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Budd Boetticher
• Starring: Randolph Scott, Karen Steele)
• Supporting: Pernell Roberts, [James Coburn, Lee Van Cleef
• Writer: Burt Kennedy

The Vision

Boetticher’s vision is defined by efficiency and focus. Working with screenwriter Burt Kennedy, he crafted a film for a team that knew they lacked massive financial resources but possessed a wealth of talent. The vision is "morally uncomplicated" yet capable of raising suspenseful dramatic dilemmas for its ensemble. By utilizing the open land of Lone Pine, California, as a character itself, Boetticher shares a riveting story that hearkens back to a simpler era of storytelling without sacrificing cinematic quality or dramatic weight.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• A Legend is Born: This film holds the distinction of being the feature film debut of [James Coburn](https://www.imdb.com), who immediately stands out in a supporting role.
• The Ranown Cycle: *Ride Lonesome* is one of seven acclaimed Westerns Boetticher made with Randolph Scott, all known for their [minimalist style and psychological depth](https://en.wikipedia.org).
• Saved by Criterion: Film lovers are largely indebted to the [The Criterion Collection](https://www.criterion.com) for restoring and preserving this nearly-lost gem for future generations.

✅ Pros

• Brisk, lean pacing with no wasted effort.
• Strong writing that overcomes a low budget.
• Excellent debut performance by James Coburn.

❌ Cons

• Not "groundbreaking" in terms of plot material.
• Relies on talky dialogue to stretch the budget.
• Follows a very familiar, simple Western template.

🏆 Final Verdict

A handsome Western that proves you don't need a massive budget to tell a compelling story. It holds up beautifully after all this time, offering a cozy, entertaining hearken back to a simpler age of movies.

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The Apprentice 2024

The Apprentice

A Razor-Sharp Satire of Greed and Ambition

★★★★☆

A powerfully invigorating, thought-provoking ride through the formative years of a polarizing icon.

Directed by Ali Abbasi, The Apprentice offers a gleefully one-sided and unflattering look at the business origins of Donald Trump (Sebastian Stan) under the notorious tutelage of Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong). Eschewing the shallow caricatures of late-night comedy, Abbasi delivers a biting satire with an urgent, independent vision. It is a cautionary tale of ambition run amok, painting a disturbing view of a mindset being sharpened into a tool of ruthless self-service.

"The assignment feels like it's supposed to ultimately be a cautionary tale of greed and ambition run amok and the film accomplishes that."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Production Brief

• Director: Ali Abbasi (Holy Spider)
• Starring: Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Maria Bakalova
• Genre: Biopic / Dark Comedy / Drama
• Aesthetic: High-budget sheen meets gritty, urgent handheld vision

A Masterclass in Transformation

The film is anchored by powerhouse black comedy performances. Sebastian Stan manages a grounded, almost tragically sympathetic portrayal of Trump, while Jeremy Strong is formidable as the mentor who peels away the layers of a "hopelessly rotten" apple. While the film undeniably carries an agenda in its depiction of the 45th and 47th President, it stands primarily as a very amusing and invigorating piece of cinema that earned its place in the awards season conversation.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Cannes Premiere: The film received an 8-minute standing ovation at its world premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.
• Legal Hurdles: The production famously faced legal threats and "cease and desist" letters from the Trump campaign during its release cycle.
• Stan's Method: Sebastian Stan reportedly gained weight and studied hundreds of hours of 1970s and 80s footage to capture the specific cadence and mannerisms of the era.

✅ Pros

• Masterful acting from Stan and Strong that avoids SNL-style parody.
• Razor-sharp, painfully biting satirical script.
• Invigorating, high-energy direction from Ali Abbasi.

❌ Cons

• Maria Bakalova’s feisty Ivana Trump feels somewhat underused.
• The overtly polarizing agenda may alienate specific audiences.
• Disturbingly dark third act may be jarring for some.

🏆 Final Verdict

A good movie is a good movie, and The Apprentice is a really good one. It is a powerful, amuse-bouche of historical friction that proves no portrait of a polarizing figure can truly be neutral—but it can certainly be brilliant.

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A Complete Unknown

A Complete Unknown

An Uncompromising Portrait of an Uncompromising Artist

★★★½☆

A brilliant, albeit uncomfortable, look at Bob Dylan's tumultuous rise to fame.

Directed by James Mangold, A Complete Unknown is far from the "paint-by-numbers" vanilla biopics Hollywood often produces. The film focuses on the specific, pivotal window when a young Bob Dylan (Timothée Chalamet) begins navigating the awkward transition from folk hero to global icon. Mangold pulls no punches, presenting an unsympathetic examination of Dylan’s personal life and his handling of romantic interests like Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro) and Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning).

"Bob Dylan is not interested in being a people pleaser. He's a poet and artist who is uncompromising... he marches to his own beat."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Production Brief

• Director: James Mangold (Walk the Line, Logan)
• Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro
• Supporting: Boyd Holbrook (as Johnny Cash), Edward Norton
• Setting: 1960s Greenwich Village / Newport Folk Festival

Chalamet's Transformation

Timothée Chalamet turns in an impressive, parodically-avoidant performance, capturing Dylan's mercurial energy and distinctive singing style. It is fascinating to compare this with Mangold’s previous musical biopic, Walk the Line; whereas Johnny Cash was framed with traditional sympathy, Dylan is often portrayed in an unsympathetic light—a refreshing admission by the filmmakers. The movie culminates in the infamous 1965 Newport Folk Festival, perfectly driving home the point that Dylan was never interested in meeting the crowd's expectations.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Live Vocals: Chalamet performed all the songs in the film live, having worked with a vocal coach and harmonica expert for nearly three years.
• The Dylan Approval: The real Bob Dylan personally reviewed and provided notes on the script, ensuring the "artistic spirit" was preserved.
• Johnny Cash Reunion: James Mangold brings the character of Johnny Cash back to the screen here, played by Boyd Holbrook, echoing his 2005 work on Walk the Line.

✅ Pros

• Timothée Chalamet's nuanced and musically capable performance.
• Uncompromising, non-traditional look at a "difficult" protagonist.
• Spirited supporting turns by Monica Barbaro and Elle Fanning.

❌ Cons

• Dylan’s selfish behavior can make for an uncomfortable watch.
• Lacks the traditional emotional "hook" of standard Hollywood biopics.

🏆 Final Verdict

A Complete Unknown is a brilliant, fascinating look at a talented artist. It embraces the friction and flaws of its subject to create something far more interesting than a standard tribute. It is as bold and uncompromising as Bob Dylan himself.

View original review on Letterboxd

Emilia Pérez 2024

Emilia Pérez

An Innovative and Operatic Musical Drama

★★★☆☆

A highly stylized affair that boldly challenges conventions and breaks new ground in the genre.

Directed by Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez is an operatic journey that navigates the unlikely intersection of Mexican drug cartels and gender affirmation. Zoe Saldaña delivers a standout performance as an ambitious lawyer caught in the orbit of a cartel leader seeking a new life. This is a film that demands a high degree of "buy-in" from the audience, leaning heavily into its heightened, stylized reality and Spanish-language musical numbers.

"The film should be viewed as a cinematic opera... the performances and situations are bigger than life, and shouldn't be viewed as dramatically realistic."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Production Brief

• Director: Jacques Audiard
• Starring: Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez
• Language: Spanish
• Genre: Musical / Crime Drama / Comedy

Visceral Style Over Melodic Hook

Audiard deserves appreciation for the visceral energy and distinctive style displayed throughout the runtime. The film features eccentric musical numbers with undeniable visual flair, though the songs themselves lack melodic catchiness and the singing voices are not particularly memorable. While it avoids being an authentic representation of Mexican culture, it succeeds as a storybook backdrop for over-the-top drama and surprising comedic moments.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Cannes History: The entire female ensemble (Gascón, Saldaña, Gomez, and Adriana Paz) collectively won the Best Actress award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.
• Historic Lead: Karla Sofía Gascón became the first openly trans actor to win a major award at Cannes for her portrayal of the title character.
• French Connection: Despite the setting and language, the film was largely shot on soundstages in Paris, emphasizing its "operatic" and artificial nature.

✅ Pros

• Strong, award-winning ensemble performances led by Zoe Saldaña.
• Innovative, genre-defying premise that breaks new ground.
• Distinctive visual flair and high visceral energy.

❌ Cons

• Musical numbers lack melodic "hooks" and are not very memorable.
• Cultural representation is arguably superficial or "storybook."
• Highly stylized tone may alienate viewers seeking realism.

🏆 Final Verdict

A notable and unique curio of 2024. While I stop short of calling it a "great" movie, Emilia Pérez is an undeniable cinematic experiment that earns kudos for its bravery and style. Only time will tell if it becomes a classic or a forgotten novelty.

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The Great Waldo Pepper

 

The Great Waldo Pepper (1975)

A Romantic Meditation on the Death of Individualism

★★★★☆

A misunderstood masterpiece that captures the tragedy of dreamers in a world turning toward realism.

Directed by George Roy Hill, The Great Waldo Pepper is a deeply personal meditation disguised as an aviation action film. Robert Redford stars as Waldo, a WWI survivor struggling to find his place in a post-war society that has no room for his reckless romanticism. Built on the foundation of a lie regarding a legendary dogfight, Waldo’s journey toward redemption and honor forces him to confront a changing landscape that demands conformity. It is a film that has matured with age, shedding its reputation as a mere curiosity to become a nuanced study of the human spirit.

"It takes place at the end of a post World War 1 era where the world was phasing out of a culture driven by dreamers and idealists and into a society of realists and bureaucrats."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: George Roy Hill
• Starring:Robert Redford, Bo Svenson
• Supporting: Susan Sarandon, Geoffrey Lewis, Edward Herrmann
• Screenplay: William Goldman

The Vision

Hill’s vision explores the weighty theme of the death of individualism, a far cry from the "feel-good" commercialism of The Sting. He relies on stunning practical effects and authentic flying stunt work, creating aerial sequences that remain breathtaking even by modern standards. By adding a societal thematic layer to a period action yarn, Hill elevates the story into a legitimate film classic. It is a quixotic, quixotic exploration of honor and authenticity in a world increasingly governed by bureaucrats, demanding to be seen by dreamers and cinephiles alike.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• No Strings Attached: The film is famous for its [real aerial stunts](https://en.wikipedia.org), with Robert Redford and Bo Svenson actually standing on the wings of biplanes in flight without safety harnesses.
• The Hill/Redford Trilogy: This marked the final collaboration between George Roy Hill and Robert Redford, following their massive hits [Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid](https://www.imdb.com) and [The Sting](https://www.imdb.com).
• Director's Passion: George Roy Hill was himself a pilot during WWII and the Korean War, which contributed to the film's meticulous technical accuracy and "personal" emotional resonance.

✅ Pros

• Breathtaking practical effects and real flying stunts.
• Weighty, nuanced themes regarding the death of individualism.
• One of Redford's most romantic and reckless performances.

❌ Cons

• Tone can feel cynical compared to other Hill/Redford films.
• Was originally dismissed as a commercial disappointment.
• Weighty thematic layers may feel heavy for casual viewers.

🏆 Final Verdict

A legitimate film classic that deserves a place alongside Hill's most famous works. It is a stunning, heartfelt tribute to the dreamers of a bygone era, anchored by practical filmmaking that puts modern CGI to shame.

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The Last Run

 

The Last Run (1971)

A Brisk, Elegant Hidden Gem of the 70s

★★★☆☆

An elegant thriller anchored by George C. Scott's heavy star power and top-notch practical action.

Directed by Richard Fleischer, The Last Run is one of those brisk, elegant thrillers that define the special landscape of 1970s cinema. Fleischer took over the project after legendary director John Huston left over creative differences with star George C. Scott. The film's minimalist, no-nonsense approach allows a simple story to unfold without distracting artistic flourishes, focusing instead on the gritty reality of a retired getaway driver's "one last job". While it utilizes familiar crime tropes—the world-weary veteran, the young gun, and the smart but unfaithful dame—the film remains a riveting thrill ride that has aged surprisingly well.

"The Last Run is one of those brisk, elegant, thriller movies which made the 1970's film landscape so special... It's this minimalist approach, which helps the movie age surprisingly well."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Richard Fleischer
• Starring: George C. Scott), Tony Musante, Trish Van Devere
• Supporting: Colleen Dewhurst, Aldo Sambrell
• Cinematography: Sven Nykvist
• Music: Jerry Goldsmith

The Vision

Fleischer’s vision for the film is workmanlike and no-frills, a stark contrast to the more experimental or auteur-driven works of the era. By letting the story speak for itself, he highlights the practical effects and the sheer magnetism of George C. Scott's performance. The artistic vision is one of "Hemingway-esque" existentialism, where the characters' fate is as meticulously tuned as the protagonist's vintage BMW. Despite being a commercial disappointment upon release, its commitment to a lean, melancholy atmosphere has earned it a nuanced re-evaluation as a cult classic.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Real-Life Romance: This film marked the first meeting of George C. Scott and [Trish Van Devere](https://www.imdb.com); the pair fell in love on set and eventually married.
• Bergman's Lens: The film's striking visual style is courtesy of [Sven Nykvist](https://www.imdb.com), the frequent cinematographer for Ingmar Bergman, marking his first major-studio feature.
• Vintage Muscle: Harry Garmes’ iconic vehicle is a customized [1956 BMW 503 Cabriolet](https://www.imdb.com), which Scott's character dotes on like a family doctor.

✅ Pros

• Riveting, hard-as-nails performance by George C. Scott.
• Top-notch practical action and high-speed car chases.
• Gorgeous European location photography by Sven Nykvist.

❌ Cons

• Reliance on familiar, sometimes predictable crime tropes.
• Characters can feel cold or cynical, making them hard to root for.
• Pacing may feel slow in filler sequences before the main action.

🏆 Final Verdict

A "great nothing film" in the best possible way—dry, wisely written, and beautifully shot. While it may have been a disappointment in 1971, it stands today as a must-see hidden gem for fans of gritty, minimalist 70s cinema.

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Hennessy

 

Hennessy (1975)

A Slow-Burn Thriller of Singular Obsession

★★★☆☆

A curiously entertaining 70s thriller anchored by an engrossing, simmering performance from Rod Steiger.

Directed by Don Sharp, Hennessy follows a former IRA member on a personal vendetta against the British Parliament following a tragic family loss. Rod Steiger, one of cinema's most underrated anchors, believably carries the weight of a grief-stricken husband and father. Eschewing the tropes of a traditional action star, his Hennessy is driven by an uncompromising, singular focus rather than hand-to-hand combat. As Scotland Yard and the IRA close in, the film ratchets up the tension through a stealthy, purposeful maneuver toward a high-stakes climax.

"Steiger works great as an everyman in extreme situations looking to repay injustices... driven by his uncompromising, singular focus, rather than his hand to hand fighting skills."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: [Don Sharp](https://www.imdb.com)
• Starring: [Rod Steiger](https://www.imdb.com), Lee Remick, Richard Johnson
• Supporting: Trevor Howard, Eric Porter, Peter Egan
• Cinematography: Ernest Steward

The Vision

Don Sharp’s directorial vision excels in its gritty realism, particularly in the seamless integration of real-life footage of the British Parliament during the third act. The film's strength lies in its psychological pacing—reminiscent of John Malkovich’s obsessed assassin in In the Line of Fire—where the protagonist’s instability is his most dangerous weapon. While the film embraces the "disillusioned lone victim" genre popular in the 70s, it focuses on the meticulous execution of a plan rather than explosive set pieces, creating a curiously effective, if uncomplicated, character study.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Parliament Controversy: The film gained notoriety for using [actual footage of Queen Elizabeth II](https://en.wikipedia.org) opening Parliament, which led to a temporary ban by the BBFC due to the sensitive nature of the plot.
• Underrated Giant: Lead [Rod Steiger](https://www.imdb.com) was a Method acting pioneer, known for holding his own against legends like Marlon Brando and Sidney Poitier.
• Genre Veteran: Director Don Sharp was a staple of British genre cinema, frequently working with [Hammer Film Productions](https://www.imdb.com) before transitioning to thrillers like this one.

✅ Pros

• Engrossing, everyman performance by Rod Steiger.
• Excellent use of real-life archival footage.
• Strong, slow-burn tension throughout the narrative.

❌ Cons

• Abrupt ending that may feel less satisfying than the buildup.
• Relatively uncomplicated plot compared to modern political thrillers.
• Lacks the "movie star" action sequences some may expect.

🏆 Final Verdict

A well-executed example of the 70s lone-victim thriller. While the ending hits a bit abruptly, the meticulous slow-build and Steiger's simmering intensity make it a hidden gem worthy of recognition.

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Nosferatu 2025

Nosferatu

A Dreary, Deathly, and Methodical Reimagining

★★★½☆

A handsome, visually striking production that feels refreshingly modern yet deathly faithful.

Directed by the visionary Robert Eggers, Nosferatu is the latest adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic tale. Decades removed from the versions by Coppola, Herzog, and Murnau, Eggers offers an energetic take that drains the lush gothic opera of the past in favor of a morbid, joyless, and deathly palette. It is a production that favors the chaos of a period plague—rampant rats, black blood, and decaying bodies lining the cobblestone streets.

"Eggers drains the film of most of the color palette, creating a dreary, morbid, joyless, deathly affair... it hearkens back to Isabelle Adjani's disturbing performance in Possession."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Vampire Chronicles

• Director: Robert Eggers (The Witch, The Northman)
• Count Orlok: Bill Skarsgård
• Ellen Hutter: Lily-Rose Depp
• Thomas Hutter: Nicholas Hoult
• Cinematography: Jarin Blaschke

Modernized Gender Politics

While the film is faithful to the original material almost to a fault, it distinguishes itself by leaning into the gender politics and sexual dynamics of the period setting. Lily-Rose Depp turns in an unhinged, standout performance, while Bill Skarsgård provides a creepy and disturbing title character. The result is a film that feels vital and urgent, adding a strong, eerie atmosphere to the long canon of Dracula adaptations.

💡 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Skarsgård's Transformation: Bill Skarsgård reportedly spent six hours in the makeup chair daily and worked with an opera singer to lower his voice by an octave.
• Eggers' Obsession: Robert Eggers has called Nosferatu his dream project, having directed a stage play of the story in his senior year of high school.
• The Herzog Link: Eggers utilized several filming locations in the Czech Republic that echoed the atmosphere of Werner Herzog's 1979 version.

✅ Pros

• Breathtakingly eerie atmosphere and morbid production design.
• Powerful, "unhinged" performances from Depp and Skarsgård.
• Refreshing focus on the sexual dynamics and gender politics of the era.

❌ Cons

• Faithful to the original beats almost to a fault.
• Dreary and joyless tone may be too oppressive for some.

🏆 Final Verdict

A strong and visually striking addition to the vampire canon. While the tale is familiar, the unique variances and disturbing visuals make Nosferatu feel like a vital piece of modern horror cinema.

View original review on Letterboxd

The Return

The Return

A Somber, Slow-Burn Deconstruction of Homeric Myth

★★★☆☆

An intellectually earnest wringer that trades mythic poetry for gritty PTSD.

Directed by Uberto Pasolini, The Return is a grounded, psychological retelling of Odysseus’s homecoming. Stripping away the gods and monsters of The Odyssey, the film functions as a serious drama focused on the trauma of war. While it boasts powerhouse performances from Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche, its deliberate pace and lack of humor make it a challenging watch for those seeking a traditional epic.

"The Return can be a frustrating watch as it builds at its deliberate pace... It's so dark that some audiences might feel the movie feels pretentious, especially in the first half which is mostly about setting the scene."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Uberto Pasolini
• Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Juliette Binoche
• Source Material: Homer's The Odyssey
• Atmosphere: Stark, bleak, and theater-esque

The Vision

There is a palpable earnestness toward the material which is admirable, especially for fans of classic theatre. However, the movie sorely lacks any humor or joy in its exceedingly bleak story. By focusing heavily on the post-war depression and PTSD of Odysseus, Pasolini risks alienating viewers who expect the "colorful poetry" of the original Bard. It is a film that demands patience, as things only begin to ramp up in the second half.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Iconic Reunion: This marks the first time Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche have shared the screen since The English Patient (1996).
• Grounded Myth: Director Pasolini intentionally removed all supernatural elements (gods, sirens, witches) to focus on the human cost of the Trojan War.
• Filming Locations: The production utilized stunning, stark landscapes in Greece to mirror the emotional isolation of the characters.

✅ Pros

• Masterclass acting from Fiennes and Binoche.
• Sincere, respectful approach to classic literature.
• Strong emotional catharsis during the action ramp-up.

❌ Cons

• Frustratingly slow, "deliberate" pacing.
• Lacks narrative balance or any sense of joy.
• Can feel pretentious during the scene-setting first half.

🏆 Final Verdict

A slow burn best suited for literature classrooms rather than a fun night in with friends. Watch it for the performances, but be prepared for the gloom.

View original review on Letterboxd