Wind River (2017):
I cannot say enough positive things about this film. It's the type of film that I feel isn't made any more- and harkens back to films like "Seven"- where films didn't have to be funny to appeal to people, and where a films success isn't based on it's world building or potential for a cinematic universe. Wind River is just a solid film. It has it's issues- sure- the proverbial pieces of the puzzle aren't necessarily subtle and the revelations aren't discoverable- as they are more so just revealed to the audience at the Director's leisure. This film also feels like it took a long look at Sicario and decided "I can do that!" - however, this film is an immensely enjoyable (if not morbid) film that I would highly recommend.
The Wall (2017):
This was a bit of a let down- I'm normally a sucker for single-location films... it's interesting to me what films can do to keep a story fresh and engaging when the fantastical elements are removed from the equation.
I love films like Buried, Grand Piano, and... well- I guess that's it- but it was disheartening to see this film, directed by Doug Liman, feel so... dull. There's nothing truly engaging, compelling, or smart about this film or the way it's told. I frequently found myself bored because the film didn't present itself with physical or psychological challenges that would otherwise make me excited.
The Lobster (2016):
Okay...bit of a doosey here- and it took me a bit to process my feelings... overall- it's... mixed. On one hand, this is an immensely entertaining idea- and it presents a lot of interesting notions with regards to the level of human interaction we have, the types of decisions that we make in order to conform to societal expectations, and the people we mold ourselves in to in order to be what we expect would make us happy. That being said- by the time the third act starts- the novelty has worn off- and the ideals of the film have been so thoroughly hammered in to your brain that you might feel a bit concussed. This is the kind of storytelling that feels like the message very clearly takes priority over the actual presented storytelling- and it's a shame that this film took such a sharp dive so close to the finish line.
