BFI London Film Festival 2024
Film Reviews by Jose Espinas
THE ROOM NEXT DOOR
Pedro Almodóvar’s debut in English-language filmmaking, having premiered at this year’s Venice Film Festival has now been shown at the London Film Festival as well.
The narrative centers on Martha and Ingrid, portrayed by Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore, respectively.
These two long-time friends find themselves reunited under heartbreaking circumstances.
Martha, a war journalist facing terminal cancer, requests Ingrid’s presence as she opts for euthanasia to end her suffering.
This emotionally charged storyline delves into themes of friendship, dignity, and the heavy emotional responsibilities we sometimes ask of those we love.
Almodóvar’s distinctive style shines through with his usual vibrant, stylish, and colourful set design & wardrobe/costumes, as well as the seamless blend of humor and drama that his fans adore.
The film is rich with his trademark elements, including political commentary, human drama, and satirical comedy, creating a deeply layered cinematic experience.
The shift to English and the inclusion of top British and American actors such as Swinton, Moore, and John Turturro, alongside a couple of hot young new Spanish actors, has generated mixed reactions.
While the performances are commendable, some of us may argue that the dialogue occasionally lacks the fluidity found in Almodóvar’s Spanish-language films.
Is it better to see films in Spanish than English?
Nevertheless, the film’s exploration of themes like mortality and friendship remains profoundly moving and thought-provoking.
Would you be able to support a friend in their final moments, or ask the same of them?
This film not only entertains but also prompts us to reflect on our own values and relationships.
MARIA
Maria is a poignant biopic that delves into the final days of the legendary opera singer Maria Callas, capturing her grand and glamorous life through a blend of old film clips and stylish flashbacks.
Directed by Pablo Larraín, the film compresses the week before Callas’s death into a narrative that is both haunting and beautiful.
The film provides a comprehensive summary of Callas’s life, starting from her early days in Athens during the Nazi occupation.
We see young Maria, alongside her sister, being pushed into singing by their mother, a harrowing beginning that contrasts sharply with her later glory days as a prima diva.
The flashbacks are artfully interwoven with scenes from her final week, creating a tapestry of memories that highlight both her triumphs and her struggles.
One of the film’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of Callas’s tragic end.
It raises poignant questions about whether she intentionally ended her life through prescribed medications and self-imposed starvation.
Was she a victim of her own fame, an artist so consumed by her persona that she orchestrated her life to end like an opera?
These questions linger, adding depth to the narrative and inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of her character.
Angelina Jolie’s performance as Maria Callas is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Larraín’s direction, combined with Jolie’s physical movements and the blending of musical techniques, transforms her into the iconic singer on screen.
Although it’s not always Jolie’s voice, her portrayal embodies the essence of Callas, ensuring her presence is felt in every scene.
Overall, Maria is a beautifully crafted film that pays homage to one of opera’s greatest legends, while also offering a deeply human look at the woman behind the voice.
THE ASSESSMENT
The Assessment is a gripping sci-fi drama set in a meticulously crafted utopian world.
Directed by Fleur Fortuné, the film explores a society that has been redefined and redirected to be a supposedly better version of the previous world, which has deteriorated into chaos.
In this new world, people strive to live perfect lives by strictly adhering to societal rules.
The central premise revolves around a rigorous assessment that individuals must pass to achieve their desires.
The film delves into the lengths people will go to succeed in this evaluation, raising questions about morality and desperation.
The assessor, portrayed with enigmatic intensity, appears to have her own hidden agenda, adding layers of intrigue and suspense.
As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist faces a poignant choice: remain in the seemingly perfect new world or return to the old world, fraught with hardships but offering a sense of authenticity and freedom.
This decision underscores the film’s exploration of the costs of living in an almost perfect, trouble-free existence.
From start to finish, The Assessment captivates with its thought-provoking themes, strong performances, and stunning production design.
It’s a film that challenges viewers to reflect on the true meaning of a better life and the sacrifices one is willing to make to attain it.
FIRE OF WIND
A visually stunning film set against the serene backdrop of a fruit plantation in the Portuguese countryside.
The cinematography captures the natural beauty of the landscape, immersing viewers in the tranquil yet challenging life of agricultural workers.
The film’s unique style relies on evocative scenes that convey a poetic message, allowing the audience to feel the rhythm of the workers’ lives and their deep connection with nature.
As the story unfolds, we are transported into the simple yet profound existence of these individuals, highlighting their symbiotic relationship with the land and its creatures.
A pivotal moment occurs when the harvesters find themselves trapped overnight in the fields, clinging to tree branches.
This forced pause in their labor becomes a time for introspection, as each character reflects on their personal struggles and aspirations amidst the backdrop of political unrest in Portugal.
Fire of Wind is a poignant exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the enduring bond between people and the earth they cultivate.
It’s a film that resonates deeply, offering a contemplative look at life, labor, and the quiet strength found in nature.
