I can't say I've watched many recent films that have really sparked my interest. Film making over the last ten to twenty years seems to have a standard playscript. There has been no real risk taking, or putting it "out there" like film makers used to do back in the turn of the century and before.
I blame the formation of mega-corporations of course. Businesses that have become too big that say no to anything out of the ordinary that may affect their bottom line, but in reality their stagnation has realistically affected their bottom line whether they see it that way or not.
That being said there have been one or two diamonds in the rough as of late so I'd like to take a moment to talk about one or two of them.
Avatar: Way of The Water
I can't honestly say I've watched anything as of late that has moved me as much as this film did, and it has absolutely everything in it for the sci-fi fantasist that loves a good hero. You will laugh, cry, and fight with the stars of this story every step of the way.
I'm glad. When they announced another avatar I rolled my eyes and expected another instance of "the message" routinely rammed down our throats, shoehorned into parts that break the story apart rather than blend it all together. Thankfully there was none, and this story was beautifully told in a way that most people could relate to in some level.
Avatar: Way of the water was a story of new beginnings, of fleeing war, of ostracism, family, bravery, and childhood. It had absolutely something for everyone in it and it was a pleasure to watch.
I would thoroughly recommend avatar way of the water to anyone that wants to give it a try.
Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Amongst Thieves
Again, another one that really surprised me. I thought this would be another mediocre forgetful film that has been barfed out by some overtly-rich fat producer that's too worried about their margins rather than creating the risk of art, in the last seven years; but this one, this is quite the gem.
Trying not to spoil the storyline for you, but Dungeons and Dragons: Honour amongst thieves really has a deep and rich storyline amongst all the looting, the killing and the swordfights. I found myself quite entranced by the deep intertwining side-storyline of each character and how they came to be in this world. It was really really well done. The story starts you off in the dark so I won't say too much.
But I will say this: From beautiful women that can turn into almost anything and ravage even the hardest of enemies, to the shy secretive bard that tricks you into thinking they are harmless and benign; this story will leave you wanting for more. So much so that you'll be asking yourself if there will be a sequel afterwards.
Stay tuned for more next week
I'll be writing two of these per week. Pickings have been slim as of late. Films have not been up to scratch but series' have been absolutely crushing it so I have a lot more to talk about when it comes time to getting started with my TV recommendations.
That doesn't mean there's not much for me to talk about no, there are still plenty of films out there that are completely timeless and I'll be talking about each and every one of them so stay tuned for that section my friends!
Until next week. Raymondspeaks out :)