Wazzup Pilipinas!?
The world of film has always been a space of dreams, a place where visions and ideas materialize in front of our eyes, shaping how we perceive the world and our place in it. As I reflect on a recent wave of films that I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing, I find myself caught between the timeless and the innovative, between the familiar comfort of old storytelling traditions and the bold risk-taking that defines the modern cinematic landscape. These films, varied in genre and execution, offer glimpses into a new era of filmmaking, one that is both deeply introspective and endlessly adventurous. They challenge conventions and explore new creative horizons while simultaneously touching on universal human experiences.
“Wicked” – A Bold, Whimsical Reimagination
Wicked, the much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, had big shoes to fill, considering its iconic source material. For someone like me, who had not followed the stage production, it was a fresh experience, one that I went into with open eyes and no preconceived notions. The film’s strength lies not just in its visually stunning sequences but in the depth of its characters. Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda is dazzling and delightful, her performance full of charm and an infectious energy that makes her an irresistible presence. Her sparkly eyes and bubbly personality create the perfect image of a fairytale heroine. In contrast, Cynthia Erivo brings an incredible depth to the character of Elphaba, the so-called "Wicked Witch," infusing her with vulnerability, intelligence, and emotional weight. It’s rare to see a character like Elphaba portrayed with such complexity—her struggles and fears come through so clearly that one can’t help but sympathize with her.
Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians, proves that he’s a director capable of handling complex narratives with nuance. The film’s reimagining of The Wizard of Oz flips expectations on their head, offering a backstory to the beloved characters that is equal parts tragic and inspiring. The spectacle is breathtaking, but what’s most impressive is the way the film takes the familiar and makes it feel new again. Critics like Variety and Hollywood Reporter have been particularly effusive in praising the performances and the refreshing way the story twists the original mythos. They also emphasize how Chu’s direction elevates what could have been a standard adaptation into something magical that resonates deeply.
However, there’s no escaping that this movie is also a product of its time—one where extravagant visuals and spectacle reign. The world created by Chu is colorful, fantastical, and almost dreamlike, but at its core, the story is about friendship, loyalty, and the pursuit of understanding, themes that remain timeless and deeply relevant to our world today.
“A Complete Unknown” – The Struggle of Living in the Shadow of Genius
In contrast to the fantastical realms of Wicked, A Complete Unknown takes a more grounded approach, drawing inspiration from the life and legend of Bob Dylan. As a biographical film, it holds a mirror up to a generation defined by its iconoclasts and rebels. Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan is stunning in its subtlety—he manages to capture the essence of Dylan without falling into mimicry. Chalamet, who has earned acclaim for his sensitive portrayals in films like Call Me by Your Name, displays a newfound strength in this role. His performance is layered, offering a fascinating glimpse into the inner turmoil and creative brilliance that defined Dylan’s career.
Monica Barbaro’s character is equally complex. She doesn’t just play a muse or a love interest; she embodies someone who is carving her own path while grappling with her own identity and place in the world. She brings an authenticity to her role, channeling Joan Baez’s essence without copying her. The chemistry between Chalamet and Barbaro adds an emotional depth that elevates the film’s narrative.
What makes A Complete Unknown truly remarkable, however, is its ability to take a well-worn subject—the life of a music legend—and breathe new life into it. James Mangold, who previously directed Walk the Line and Logan, once again proves himself a master of creating compelling narratives that resonate far beyond the screen. Critics, particularly in The New York Times and Indiewire, have highlighted how the film’s handling of fame, love, and the struggle for personal freedom feels deeply relevant today, as artists and public figures continue to wrestle with the burdens of fame.
“Conclave” – A Thrilling Political Drama That Forces Us to Confront Power
Conclave presents a starkly different type of film—a political thriller set in the secretive halls of the Vatican. The film follows a group of cardinals who gather to elect a new pope, but as the camera takes us deep into the hidden corridors of power, we are confronted with the complexities of faith, politics, and moral compromise. Directed by Edward Berger, known for his work on Deutschland 83, Conclave is a masterclass in tension-building. With a stellar cast including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, each actor brings a unique touch to their role, diving deep into the intricacies of their characters' motivations and personal battles. The story moves quickly but never loses its moral complexity, making it an intellectually stimulating experience.
The ending, a shocking twist, leaves the audience in stunned silence. It’s a moment that feels both inevitable and incredibly jarring, and it compels viewers to question not just the narrative of the film but also the world in which we live. Conclave is, at its heart, about the collision between institutional power and personal morality, an evergreen theme that resonates across cultures and time periods. Filipino critic Pocholo Gonzales praised the film's handling of power dynamics and its ability to make us question the motives of even the most revered institutions.
“The Brutalist” – A Complex, Yet Unfinished Exploration of Identity and Architecture
In The Brutalist, the first half of the film delivers on its promise—an exploration of personal ambition, creativity, and the ways in which architecture shapes and reflects the human experience. Adrian Brody’s performance is mesmerizing, his ability to inhabit his character’s deep struggles with authenticity making it impossible to look away. Brody has long been a favorite of mine, ever since his Oscar-winning performance in The Pianist, and in this film, his nuanced portrayal adds depth to a character who could easily have been a caricature of artistic ego.
Yet, as the film progresses, it begins to unravel. The narrative, once tight and focused, becomes mired in indulgence, losing the thread that would have brought it to a satisfying conclusion. The second half feels almost like a digression, its exploration of philosophy and identity veering into abstract and disconnected ideas. Despite its flaws, The Brutalist offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an artist—a reminder of the perilous road between genius and madness. Some critics, like Film Threat, have pointed out that the film could have benefitted from a more cohesive narrative, but others, such as The Guardian, admire its ambition and the depth of its exploration of the human psyche.
“Anora” – A Satirical Thriller That Pushes Boundaries
Anora, directed by Sean Baker, is a film that wears its madness on its sleeve. A dark comedy-thriller that explores the lives of a chaotic Russian family, the film blends satire and absurdity in a way that feels distinctly Baker. The eccentric performances from Mikey Madison as Anora and her volatile husband create an atmosphere of madness that borders on the surreal. At times, it feels like a character study of the extreme edges of human behavior, but there’s also a sharp, satirical edge to the film that cuts deep.
The film’s humor is dark, and the dialogue often feels like it was pulled straight from the annals of absurdist literature. While it may not be for everyone, Anora is a daring and thought-provoking film that challenges the boundaries of what we expect from a thriller. Critics have praised Baker’s ability to tackle such dark material with a sense of humor, though some feel that the film overstays its welcome. The Verge notes that the film “pushes the boundaries of absurdity in ways that challenge the audience’s comfort zone,” while Collider observes that it’s a film that will leave audiences both unsettled and enthralled.
Reflections on a New Era in Filmmaking
As I watch these films, I can’t help but feel that we are witnessing the dawn of a new era in cinema. These films, from Wicked to Anora, are breaking the rules, pushing boundaries, and offering something truly unique in a landscape that often feels dominated by sequels, reboots, and formulaic storytelling. They challenge us to think critically about the world around us, about power, identity, and the human condition.
What excites me most about this new wave of filmmaking is that it feels fresh and daring. These films are not afraid to take risks, to explore uncharted territory, and to offer a vision that is not bound by the conventional expectations of Hollywood or international film markets. And yet, despite their innovative spirit, they still manage to touch on the core human emotions that connect us all. The beauty of film lies in its ability to connect us to our shared experiences, and in this respect, these films succeed masterfully.
It’s clear that the future of cinema is in good hands. These films, with all their imperfections, remind me why I fell in love with the art form in the first place. They are bold, they are challenging, and above all, they are deeply human. In an era where we often feel disconnected, these films offer us a chance to come together, to question, to laugh, and, perhaps most importantly, to feel.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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