The Big Picture, The Fine Print

February 22, 2011

I watched a video that reminded me how images recycle themselves.  I’m genuinely impressed when a filmmaker does something fresh.  In this clip we see how Kill Bill is really a remix of scenes from a variety of classics and foreign favorites.

Everything Is A Remix: KILL BILL  from  robgwilson.com  on  Vimeo.

Rob Reiner is behind many of  my favorite films.  His writing, producing and acting credits are voluminous and today I’m adding a new favorite to my list of his directorial classics which includes:

2007The Bucket List 2003Alex & Emma 1999The Story of Us 1996Ghosts of Mississippi 1992A Few Good Men 1990Misery 1989When Harry Met Sally… 1987The Princess Bride1986Stand by Me 1984This Is Spinal Tap

Flipped (2010)

A corny (and I mean that in the most endearing way) coming of age romance that will warm your heart and bring a tear to your eye.  I say that with the utmost respect for Mr. Reiner and his adaptation of the novel written by Wendelin Van Draanen.

Don’t let the fact that this is a coming of age romance scare you off… this is not a chick flick.

This is one of those films that you can watch any time, anywhere with anyone and never grow tired of it.

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Whale Rider (2002)

Wikipedia page
Imdb.com listing

This film has been around for a while, but… sometimes treasures like this come out and people miss them.  My recommendation… WATCH THIS FILM!

It’s beautifully shot and masterfully unfolds a story of a young girl who was destined to be… nothing.  Her sense of pride and conviction changed that.  I can give you a bunch of details which will entice you to perhaps rent this gem or download it from your favorite VOD portal… But I won’t bore you.  This film changed me.  It’s sensitivity and passion inspired me to be a better person.  Enough said.

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Turtles Can Fly (2004)

Wikipedia page
Imdb.com listing

Written and directed by Kurdish Iranian, Bahman Ghobadi whose most recent film, No One Knows About Persian Cats, further demonstrates his mastery of shooting under difficult situations.  Turtles Can Fly illustrates the horrors bestowed upon children during the fall of Saddam Hussein and the early days of Iran’s occupation by the Americans.  This film brings a powerful view of how children are forced to cope under circumstance far beyond their years.  Graphic and disturbing themes are realistically portrayed.