festival recap

So here's the latest: I saw another film on Wednesday afternoon, then another one on Thursday night; then today I took a break, because I got my period and needed some rest. Actually, I was already feeling pretty crappy last night, but decided to go to the theater anyway, since I already had the ticket and didn't want to waste it. Otherwise I probably wouldn't have gone, especially since the weather was crappy too. But I went, and got back home almost before the onset of the worst cramps/dizziness spell. I collapsed into bed and stayed there more or less until noon. Luckily, today I have not missed any movies that I particularly cared about; I was thinking of seeing one, but I hadn't bought the ticket in advance, since it didn't seem likely to sell out, and I kinda had the feeling I might not be going anywhere. Or at least I hoped that the day I am feeling "indisposed" would happen on Friday instead of Saturday or Sunday; and I am truly pleased that Mother Nature decided to oblige me for once.:) Because Saturday is my last chance to see Sacrifice, a Chinese period drama by the same director who made Farewell, My Concubine (which I adore). And on Sunday I am actually seeing two films: The Good Doctor and Romeos - a German love story between two boys, one of whom is transgendered. There is about 40 minutes between the end of the first movie and the start of the second - which will hopefully be enough time to grab a bite to eat at a nearby cafe. I did see a cool little sandwich/salad place pretty close to the theater as I was strolling around the area. Of course, there are plenty of classy, expensive restaurants in that area as well - but I'd rather go somewhere casual, especially by myself and with only a half-hour to spare. Anyway... I'm very excited about all three films, and very glad I bought the tickets in advance (believe it or not, but Romeos is the one which sold out already; not The Good Doctor, and not the fabled Three Musketeers either, LOL). *rubs hands together*

But what have I seen so far, other than ADM? ( Let's be brief and concise about it - there's no way I'm going to have the time for full, lengthy reviews anyway... )

(no subject)

Just got back from seeing Sacrifice. WOW. It was... epic. In every sense of the word. I have said this before, and I will say it again: Chinese cinematography has no equal in the world when it comes to the art of storytelling. There is incredible power in the way each and every tiny detail contributes to the overall dramatic effect. It is all so perfectly balanced; never feels overdone, even during the most outrageously unrealistic swordfights with people throwing random somersaults and flying through the air.;) I honestly don't know how they do it. I mean, in a Hollywood flick it would (and does) look contrived; in a true Chinese epic, it is somehow profoundly symbolic. Or is it just me? There is something about the thoughtfulness and perfectionism of Chinese culture that resonates with me very deeply; nothing is ever meaningless or superficial, because nothing should ever be. Each blade of grass or each raindrop has a story to tell - if only people would listen. The Chinese know how to listen. Or it could be that their stories are always about REAL people, passionate and flawed, selfish and brave, faithful and hesitant, cruel and forgiving... No-one is ever black-and-white. So no matter how visually stunning and "otherworldly" the film may seem, you can easily identify with the characters and their struggles. Which is possibly THE distinctive mark of all really good stories. Sorely lacking in many Holywood productions, imo.

And that's the end of my penetrating insights for tonight.:P