Before Midnight

In 2013, the world was introduced to the third installment in the "Before" film series, "Before Midnight." The film brought back beloved characters Jesse and Celine, played by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, respectively, and was directed by Richard Linklater. "Before Midnight" received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of a long-term relationship and its exploration of complex themes such as love, commitment, and communication.

But what made "Before Midnight" stand out from other romantic films of its time? Was it the chemistry between Hawke and Delpy, who had been playing these characters for almost two decades? Was it the stunning scenery of Greece, where the film was set? Or was it the raw and honest portrayal of a couple struggling to connect after years of being together?

In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of "Before Midnight" and explore what made it such a hit with audiences and critics alike. We'll examine the film's themes and how they relate to real-life relationships, as well as analyze the performances of Hawke and Delpy. We'll also take a closer look at Linklater's unique directorial style and how it contributed to the film's success.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan of the "Before" series or simply curious about why "Before Midnight" made such an impact in the film world, this post is for you. Join us as we explore the intricacies of love and relationships in "Before Midnight," and discover why this film continues to be a favorite among audiences today.

I'm sure you will also enjoy the following films:

Blue Is the Warmest Color is a French romantic drama film that was released in 2013. The movie was directed by Abdellatif Kechiche and starred Léa Seydoux and Adèle Exarchopoulos. It is an adaptation of the graphic novel of the same name by Julie Maroh.

Plot Summary

The movie tells the story of Adèle, a high school student who is discovering her sexuality. She meets and falls in love with Emma, a blue-haired artist, and the two start a romantic relationship. The movie follows their relationship from its passionate beginnings to its eventual demise.

Impressions

Blue Is the Warmest Color is a beautiful and emotional movie that explores the complexities of love and sexuality. The film has received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of a same-sex relationship and its honest depiction of the ups and downs of a romantic relationship.

Strong Points

One of the strongest points of the movie is the acting. Léa Seydoux and Adèle Exarchopoulos deliver powerful performances that are both raw and vulnerable. Their chemistry is palpable and makes the audience root for their relationship.

The cinematography is also a strong point of the movie. The film is shot with an intimacy that makes the audience feel like they are part of the story. The use of close-ups and handheld camera work creates an immersive experience that adds to the emotional impact of the movie.

Weak Points

One of the weak points of the movie is its length. At almost three hours long, the movie can feel slow at times, and some scenes could have been trimmed down or cut entirely.

Another weak point of the movie is its portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community. Some critics have argued that the film fetishizes lesbian relationships and that the male gaze is evident in the way the sex scenes are shot.

Personal Opinion

Overall, I think Blue Is the Warmest Color is a beautiful and emotional movie that is worth watching. The performances by Léa Seydoux and Adèle Exarchopoulos are outstanding, and the cinematography is breathtaking. While the movie is not perfect, it is a powerful exploration of love and sexuality that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

I recently watched the movie "Her" which was released in 2013 and I must say that it was a remarkable movie. The movie was directed by Spike Jonze, who is known for his unique style of storytelling, and the cinematography was done by Hoyte Van Hoytema, who is also known for his exceptional work in movies like "Interstellar" and "Dunkirk".

Plot Summary

The movie tells the story of Theodore Twombly, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who is a lonely man going through a divorce. He works for a company where he writes personalized love letters for people who are unable to express their feelings to their loved ones. One day, Theodore purchases a new operating system for his computer which has an advanced artificial intelligence system. He soon develops a relationship with the operating system, which names itself Samantha and is voiced by Scarlett Johansson. They share a deep bond, and Theodore starts to fall in love with Samantha, who is always there for him, providing him with companionship and support.

Impressions

One of the strongest points of this movie is the excellent cinematography, which perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the story. The use of colors and lighting is exceptional, and it creates a beautiful visual experience for the viewers. The performances of the actors are also noteworthy, especially Joaquin Phoenix, who delivers a powerful and emotional performance as Theodore. Scarlett Johansson also delivers a remarkable performance despite not appearing on the screen.

Another strong point of the movie is the unique and thought-provoking story. It raises some interesting questions about the nature of love, relationships, and the role of technology in our lives. The movie explores the idea of whether it is possible to have a meaningful relationship with an artificial intelligence system, and it challenges the conventional notions of what constitutes a relationship.

Weak Points

One of the weak points of the movie is that it can be slow-paced at times, and some viewers might find it boring. The movie also lacks a clear resolution, and some viewers might find the ending unsatisfying. However, I believe that the open-ended nature of the ending is intentional, and it allows the viewers to interpret the movie in their own way.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I highly recommend this movie to anyone who is looking for a unique and thought-provoking story. It is a remarkable movie that explores some interesting concepts, and it is beautifully crafted in terms of cinematography and performances. The movie has a stellar cast, including Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson, Amy Adams, and Rooney Mara, who all deliver excellent performances. In my opinion, "Her" is a must-watch movie that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

I recently watched the 2013 movie "Inside Llewyn Davis" and I must say that I was quite impressed with the film. The movie is written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen and stars Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, and John Goodman among others. It is a drama film that follows the life of a struggling folk singer named Llewyn Davis in the early 1960s.

Plot Summary

The story of "Inside Llewyn Davis" revolves around Llewyn Davis, a folk singer who is struggling to make ends meet in Greenwich Village, New York City. The movie takes place over the course of a week, during which Llewyn tries to get his music career back on track while dealing with personal and financial issues. He crashes on various couches, gets into altercations with friends and strangers, and tries to connect with industry professionals to land a gig. The movie explores themes of artistic integrity, perseverance, and the struggle to get noticed in a competitive industry.

Impressions

One of the things I appreciated about "Inside Llewyn Davis" was its attention to detail in depicting the 1960s folk scene. The Coen brothers did an excellent job of recreating the era, from the costumes to the music to the cinematography. The film also features a standout soundtrack, with Oscar Isaac doing his own singing and performing live on set.

The cast of "Inside Llewyn Davis" was another strong point for the film. Oscar Isaac gives a captivating performance as Llewyn Davis, portraying the character's vulnerability and frustration with authenticity. Carey Mulligan and John Goodman also deliver memorable performances in supporting roles.

However, one weakness of the movie may be its slow pace. The story is character-driven, which may not appeal to viewers who prefer a more action-packed story. Additionally, the ending may leave some audiences feeling unsatisfied, as it is somewhat ambiguous and open-ended.

Final Verdict

Overall, "Inside Llewyn Davis" is an excellent film that offers a realistic and nuanced portrayal of the folk scene in the 1960s. The movie features strong performances, top-notch cinematography, and an unforgettable soundtrack. While the slow pace and open-ended conclusion may not be for everyone, I highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas.

Frances Ha: A Quirky and Authentic Indie Gem

Frances Ha is a 2013 indie film directed by Noah Baumbach and co-written by Greta Gerwig, who also stars as the titular character. The film follows Frances, a 27-year-old aspiring dancer who lives with her best friend Sophie in Brooklyn. When Sophie moves out to live with her boyfriend, Frances is forced to confront her own insecurities and navigate her way through adulthood.

Cinematography: Capturing the Charm of New York City

One of the strongest aspects of Frances Ha is its cinematography. Shot entirely in black and white, the film captures the charm and vibrancy of New York City. The camera follows Frances as she dances through the streets of New York, capturing the city's energy and diversity. The film's use of long takes and natural lighting also adds to its authenticity, making it feel like a snapshot of real life.

Direction: Balancing Comedy and Drama

Noah Baumbach's direction is also noteworthy. He strikes a perfect balance between comedy and drama, creating a film that is both funny and poignant. The film's humor comes from its quirky characters and witty dialogue, while its drama is rooted in Frances' struggles to find her place in the world. Baumbach's direction is understated, allowing the story and characters to shine.

Cast: Greta Gerwig Shines as Frances

The cast of Frances Ha is also impressive. Greta Gerwig gives a standout performance as Frances, bringing both humor and depth to the role. Her portrayal of Frances is relatable and authentic, making us root for her even when she makes mistakes. The supporting cast, including Adam Driver and Mickey Sumner, also deliver strong performances, adding to the film's charm.

Plot: A Slice of Life Story

Frances Ha's plot is simple and straightforward, but that's what makes it so effective. The film is a slice-of-life story that follows Frances as she navigates the ups and downs of adulthood. The film's pacing is slow but deliberate, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in Frances' world. The film's climactic moment is both bittersweet and satisfying, bringing Frances' journey to a satisfying conclusion.

Overall Impression: A Must-See Indie Gem

Overall, Frances Ha is a must-see indie gem. Its charming characters, witty dialogue, and authentic portrayal of New York City make it a standout film. Greta Gerwig's performance as Frances is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her talent as both an actress and writer. If you're a fan of indie films or coming-of-age stories, Frances Ha is a film you won't want to miss.

The Spectacular Now: A Coming-of-Age Masterpiece

The Spectacular Now is a 2013 coming-of-age movie directed by James Ponsoldt and starring Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley. The movie's plot revolves around Sutter Keely, a high school senior who is the life of the party and lives in the now, who meets Aimee Finecky, a quiet and introverted girl who doesn't have many friends.

Plot Summary

The movie starts with Sutter Keely waking up on a random lawn after a night of partying. He is a popular senior in high school who is charming, witty, and always has a flask of whiskey in his pocket. He meets Aimee Finecky, a girl who is the opposite of him, and they strike up an unlikely friendship. Sutter helps Aimee come out of her shell, and they begin dating.

As the movie progresses, we see Sutter's problems with alcohol, his estranged relationship with his father, and his fear of the future start to surface. Aimee, on the other hand, starts to become more confident and independent. The movie ends with Sutter realizing that he needs to change his ways and make something of himself, while Aimee is ready to move on and start a new chapter in her life.

Impressions

The Spectacular Now is a beautifully shot movie that captures the essence of teenage life. James Ponsoldt's direction is impeccable, and he manages to create a realistic and relatable world for the characters to inhabit. The cinematography is stunning, and the use of natural light and handheld camera work gives the movie an authentic feel.

Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley's performances are outstanding, and they have great chemistry together. Teller's portrayal of Sutter Keely is nuanced and layered, and he manages to convey the character's inner turmoil with ease. Woodley, on the other hand, shines as Aimee Finecky, and her transformation throughout the movie is inspiring.

Strong Points

One of the movie's strong points is its authenticity. The characters feel like real people, and their problems and struggles are relatable. The movie also tackles some heavy themes, such as alcoholism, family dysfunction, and the fear of the future, with sensitivity and care.

Another strong point of the movie is its pacing. The story unfolds at a natural pace, and the characters' development feels organic. The movie doesn't rush to any conclusions, and it allows the audience to fully invest in the characters' journeys.

Weak Points

One of the movie's weak points is its lack of diversity. The movie is set in a predominantly white, middle-class town, and there is very little representation of other ethnicities or cultures. This can feel alienating for some viewers and detract from the movie's overall impact.

Another weak point of the movie is its ending. While it is satisfying to see Sutter and Aimee's journeys come to a close, the ending feels a bit too tidy and convenient. It would have been nice to see a more ambiguous or open-ended conclusion that left room for interpretation.

Final Verdict

Overall, The Spectacular Now is a masterfully crafted coming-of-age movie that is both poignant and entertaining. Its strong performances, authentic storytelling, and beautiful cinematography make it a must-watch for anyone who loves movies. While it has its flaws, the movie's strengths far outweigh them, and it is a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll.