Nr. 10

This German oddity of a film is vaguely entertaining only because most of the films of 2021 were subpar in comparison. The film seriously bogs down in the second half, and it is not the fault of the fine actors involved. It is the fault of the writers. The pacing is terrible in the second half, as is the story line development. I can suspend disbelief, but I cannot suspend logic. Much of the second half of the film defies logic. Don't bother seeing this film unless you can see it for free like I did with a pass from my brother in law, Geoff, who is the theater manager of the multiplex where I live.

Alex van Warmerdam is known as one of thr country's best directors, an this little gem doesn't disappoint. A film with its own rhythm. Get in tune and enjoy - I was mesmerized from the start. And the ending - wow. Great camera work, and great alienating scene settings.

First, we see a play within in a play. The director changes the plot. The participants are mere unwilling puppets in his hands. People are lied to. Then, things get stranger an stranger. First in the acting troupe, which leads to dramatic moments. But who are these people, observing every move of the protagonist? Something sinister is in the air. Powerful men of faith get involved, scenes that may or may not be happening in a spaceship unroll. And then, in a different setting, another director changes the plot. Again, people are lied to. The ending - not for the more sensible souls indeed, but I loved it.

For me, the first half of the movie was light, mildly intriguing soap opera fayre. Thankfully, it completely changed direction, for those seeking something a little "fresher" and challenging. I went into this with just the description given at the top of the IMDB page. I strongly suggest you do the same - the less you know the better. However, the ending will definitely split the audience depending on your sensibility. I actually made a single loud clap at the final "surprise", which I never do. But others may find my reaction "disappointing", to say the least. You have been warned !

If you already know Alex Van Wamerdam, you won't be deceived, at least you won't be surprised. Though it is not my favorite from him, far from that, I admit it is still worth the watch, because it looks not like other films. Evverything is totally unpredictable. The Van Warmerdam's trademark. I am puzzled however, after he viewing. I still wonder which kind of film I was dealing with.

Many stories in a single movie packed into a half an hour is not something done easily. There's so much that's told visually than verbally. We see the dubiousness, hate and nothingness of lives through unique set of characters. Setup of backgrounds was something stands out. Consistent performances by the cast keep the story's puzzling as ever. The colour schemes throughout the story adds rigidity and cinematography leaves many avenues of thought open to dissect the story but it's safe to say that Gunter maybe imagining a whole lot slowly drowning in madness after nailing Marius whose been floating off the stage anyway. A great work of art that floats to outer space.