Tag Archives: music

SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION

Posted on by under Reviews

Directed by Ethan Hawke

Peering into the life of Seymour Bernstein, an extraordinarily talented New York concert pianist, Seymour: An Introduction serves as a honorary tribute to a man that decided to carve his own path. Citing extreme anxiety, Bernstein embraced his reclusive nature despite his talents, holing up in a small New York apartment to become a piano teacher. Instead of the typical rags-to-riches or mental downfall stories which are synonymous with these kinds of documentaries, we are instead treated to a story of a man that made absolutely sure that he could continue doing what he loved, who places his love for music above fame and above money. You may not be enthralled to see someone who has simply found happiness in their life, but by god is it refreshing.

B+

 

2014 VCA BLOG POST #1 (PART TWO)

Posted on by under VCA Blog

It always comes back to Before Sunrise. Less than three years ago, Richard Linklater’s 1995 indie romance broke my heart and simultaneously reassembled all the pieces, but with a nice new coat of paint.

I could rant forever about the film: it’s a film that rewards multiple viewings even just to soak up each individual scene. One scene in particular stands out as a favourite of mine, and is probably one of my favourite scenes of all time.

Jesse and Celine, having already spent half a day in Vienna together, wind up in close quarters together in the listening booth of a record store. I couldn’t believe how powerful the scene is, and yet so wonderfully subtle.

The music; the lack of dialogue; the unbroken take; the physical performances; the shot itself: they create an incredible intimacy which, every time I watch it, drives me absolutely insane in the best way possible.

A short film in itself, It’s the scene I’m incredibly jealous I didn’t make.

I can still buy a plane ticket to Vienna though.

Watch for yourself:

MISTAKEN FOR STRANGERS

Posted on by under Reviews

Directed by Tom Berninger

Now, I might be incredibly biased because The National is one of my favourite bands. That said, this is still a wonderfully made documentary and a very interesting insight into sibling relationships, expectations, identity and responsibility. It’s a reminder that good art can, at its core, be simple as well.

B+