snewkyblinders

Just watched Smile 2 (2024), and I daresay, it is nothing short of a marvel. This movie not only lives up to its hype but dauntlessly raises the very standard of the horror movie genre. Never before had I thought to regard horror as art, yet this film has entirely altered my perception, presenting terror as a thing of haunting beauty. It is, without doubt, a bold and pure cinematic brilliance.

As for the Parker Finn, the director of this chilling tale, one cannot help but offer hearty applause. With just two films under his belt (Smile and now Smile 2), he has already cemented himself as a director of prodigious talent. A round of applause is most deserved! An easy 8 out of 10 from me.

The 2017 retelling of Papillon offers a visually striking and emotionally earnest take on Henri Charrière's tale of survival and defiance. Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek deliver solid performances as Papillon and Dega, but the film lacks the raw edge of the 1973 original. By explicitly showing Papillon's eventual freedom and legacy, the new version opts for resolution over the ambiguity that once left audiences questioning and inspired.

Though technically refined, the remake sacrifices the existential weight and bold spirit of its predecessor for a safer, more conventional narrative. Where the original soared on its audacity, this version glides on polished visuals and heartfelt camaraderie but never truly soars. 6 out of 10.

The Different Man stands as a muted yet intricate reflection of the human psyche, inviting viewers to a realm where identity is not merely questioned but dissected as if by brushstrokes upon a canvas. Its beauty lies in its quiet wit and reserved artistry, a slow symphony of introspection that touches gently upon the viewer's own inner reflections.

Yet, herein lies its flaw. While admirably poised as an artful exploration, it sometimes ventures into the overly abstract, leaving substance behind for the sake of aesthetic allure. The elegance of its premise is shadowed by moments where the narrative teeters, losing the sharpness of its message. Thus, it becomes an admirable yet imperfect work-a piece better appreciated than understood, more art than answer.