The Scent of Green Papaya

The Scent of Green Papaya; A film so uneventful yet still mesmerizing in its examination of finding beauty in servitude & sensuality through sights, sounds and cinematography. The voyeuristic camera peeks into and peels back layers of longing and pining for love over a decade; B+

Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u

Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u; A rearrangement of her album Sour, with gorgeous scenery of the western U.S. states, gives us more insight into the artist while seemingly not offering behind the scenes moments that go deep enough. The musical performances are stellar; B+

Turning Red

Turning Red; A metaphor of a specific, lived experience resonates universally in that special, Pixar way. Images of Toronto are so fun to see, notably the stadium forever known as SkyDome along with cityscapes, populated by characters fun and familiar. Catchy tunes by 4town: B+

West Side Story

West Side Story; Reimagining does a great job of refreshing elements while staying true to what makes the original an undeniable classic. Songs, choreography and score remain the highlights as new cast works well within the old parameters. Doesn’t detract from its predecessor; A-

A Hero

A Hero; Complex morality play intrigues intellectually & thematically while being aesthetically uninteresting. The way truth & honour are twisted & manipulated is reflective of our times, while seeming like a timeless tale. Not visually enthralling but pensively captivating; B+

Sorry To Bother You

Sorry to Bother You; Social commentary by way of creepy comedy that busts conventions in shocking ways. It’s a capitalist critique for our times with some cutting barbs while being equally entertaining on account of a great cast; A-