lee_michael_

Pairing a disappointing plot with stunning visuals seems to be a family trait. Clearly, "The Watchers" was directed by a member of the Shyamalan clan because the usual failures were present:

-Thoughtful and stylish directing -Great story development leading to a poorly planned twist-ending -Under-developed and/or dry characters -Rushed ending -Bizarre "villain"

This film was frustrating instead of intriguing or even creative. It takes way too long to say nothing. And, it's obvious M. Night's influence was taken into consideration, as many of the shots closely mirror or downright copy his signature style. I'm so disappointed in this debut film. There was potential to take an already interesting book and turn it into a film with an equally interesting perspective on local Irish lore, but instead, we get a meandering, poorly thought-out, dull mess.

There were glimpses of Ishana's potential greatness as a director, though. I loved how she captured the vibrance of the forest in contrast with the safe house our main characters were trapped in. And the significance of nature to the main characters (villain included). However, I'm not sure I'll ever recover enough from this film to trust any of their future projects.

Spectacularly lesbian. Deliciously dark. Realistically messy.

"Love Lies Bleeding" is wonderfully weird, gay, and absurd. It has most of my favorite things in one place: criminal activity, women, 80s outfits, and a dusty small town in the middle of the desert.

I've been a fan of Rose Glass (director) since "Saint Maude" and I highly recommend you become one too, because if Glass continues to champion spunky and unique women-led stories like "Love Lies Bleeding," we're looking at the next Fincher. Riding the resurgence of the 1.45-minute runtime, this film packs in as much lesbian romance (it moves fast anyway), crime, and gore as one could without a film descending into complete ridiculousness.

Honestly, I have no idea what this film is trying to say, but I don't care because it was so frigging fun! And a bonus? Even rocking what can only be described as a gas station-cut mullet, Kristen frigging Stewart is a goddess.

Le sigh.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go be gay and do crime.

Nai Nai & Wài Pó is a short film packing a big punch. It's a humorous peek into the lives of two ordinary but extraordinary grandmothers who refuse to allow their zest for life to diminish with age. The talented director, Sean Wang, masterfully captures the essence of his grandmothers' character with inter-spliced images of their playful banter, quiet moments of care, and quick narrative bits. It's the best kind of human interest piece - tender, honest, and inspirational. Though only 17 minutes long, it's packed with a handful of important life lessons, choosing joy being one of them.

It's fun, quirky, and touching, and I can't wait to see what Wang does next.