Get ready for a deep dive into the cinematic landscape of 2024! The hosts discuss their top film picks while reflecting on the biases in creating annual lists. From the absurdity of 'pee pee poo poo man' to the heartfelt themes of 'Black Dog,' they explore evolving storytelling in contemporary cinema. The unique film 'Open Doom Crescendo' highlights experimental techniques and the challenges faced by indie filmmakers. Nostalgia meets disappointment in a review of the new Wallace and Gromit film, promising an engaging ride through the quirks of filmmaking!
The speakers critique the trend of annual top 10 movie lists, citing their bias toward recent releases and mainstream cinema over lasting quality.
A noticeable preference for classic films has emerged post-pandemic, as the transition to digital platforms has diminished excitement for new releases.
The discussion on international cinema highlights the creativity of lesser-known filmmakers, emphasizing their unique storytelling approaches and ability to resonate with broader audiences.
Deep dives
Annual Top 10 Lists and Biases
The discussion highlights the common phenomenon of cinephiles rushing to compile their annual top 10 movie lists at the end of the year. The speakers express their discontent with this practice, asserting that these lists are often influenced by recent viewings rather than objective quality. They argue that such lists tend to favor mainstream films pushed by larger studios, especially those released in the final weeks of December. Instead, the speakers prefer reflecting on cinema over a longer period, suggesting that a decade later, the films that resonate most strongly become apparent.
Preference for Older Films
The conversation reveals a growing preference for older films among both speakers, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They recount how the transition to viewing new releases through digital platforms diminished their excitement for contemporary films, leading them to prioritize classic cinema instead. This sentiment emphasizes a disconnection from the excitement that once surrounded new releases, illustrated by their limited engagement with film festivals and current cinematic discourse. As a result, the speakers find deep satisfaction in revisiting and discussing films that have stood the test of time.
Local Legends Bloodbath: A Unique Approach to Narrative
The podcast features a discussion on "Local Legends Bloodbath," a film by Matt Farley and Charlie Roxburgh that blends humor and horror in a slasher narrative. The film serves as a commentary on the toxic aspects of artistic ambition, showcasing how a seemingly charming character can exhibit narcissism and destructiveness. The speakers appreciate the film's clever and unconventional approach, diverging from traditional slasher tropes while retaining comedic value. This nuanced storytelling about the struggle of an outsider artist attempting to navigate success adds depth to an otherwise humorous premise.
Evil Does Not Exist: A Haunting Exploration of Community Dynamics
Another film discussed is "Evil Does Not Exist," which presents a haunting narrative about a rural Japanese community threatened by corporate interests wishing to exploit their land. The film intentionally immerses viewers in the daily lives of the community before revealing the implications of the impending gentrification. It features a unique storytelling structure, eschewing conventional plot-driven narratives to explore the subtleties of human connection and environmental impacts. The film’s visual beauty and pacing create an evocative atmosphere that has lingered in the speakers' thoughts long after viewing.
Cinematic Diversity: Lesser-Known International Films
The conversation shifts to a diverse array of international films that have intrigued the speakers, notably those from lesser-known filmmakers. They highlight the creativity emerging from mainland Chinese cinema, discussing examples such as "Second Life" and "Blade of Fury," which showcase unique storytelling that often skirts censorship by employing clever narrative choices. These films, often lacking mainstream recognition, offer distinct perspectives that resonate with audiences on various levels. The passion for cinema as a universal language shines through as they celebrate these hidden gems, encouraging a broader appreciation for global filmmaking.
We share the best films of 2024 and are 100% correct, because we've seen everything, and are never, ever, wrong. Nope. No blind spots. Smooth sailing. Unimpeachable.
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