dianatownsend

Beyond the Spectrum - Being Taken is a fascinating and thought provoking look at alien abduction. In the past. I've watched a few films and TV shows about UFO abductions but I've always taken them as entertainment and nothing else. This movie challenged my assumptions. Personally, I've never believed in aliens, but if space is infinite then it has to be possible that some other form of life may exist somewhere. Being Taken uses a compilation of footage from different sources which gives it almost a found footage effect. Overall it is very entertaining and really funny at times. The various testimonies tell a compelling story and the 'abductees' themselves come across as being truthful and credible. Whatever your take on the subject, even if you are a skeptic like me, you will find this film thoroughly thought provoking!

If you're looking for something unexpected - something that is as far as you can possibly get from predictable formats - then check out the remarkable story telling in Nothing Really Happens. This film is undeniably strange but its weirdness - in the style of Being John Malkovitch - is surprisingly relatable. There are plenty of startling plot twists and some great dialogue. Conversations that seem pointless at first become hysterically funny because the characters are so committed to them. The changes in the movie's universe are unsettling and leave the audience to work out for itself what is really happening. Definitely unique but well worth a watch!

Purdah is an outstanding documentary telling the story of a young Muslim woman called Kaikasha who dreams of playing cricket for India. Unfortunately, she faces massive obstacles both from members of her family and the expectations of her religion. The film gives a truly moving insight into Kaikasha's life and also those of her mother and sisters as they struggle to make the best of the few opportunities they have. The women were inspiring, honest and authentic and I strongly recommend watching their story.