The ABC Arts January film wrap highlights several new releases and Oscar hopefuls hitting Australian cinemas, offering a diverse selection of genres and themes.
Featured Films
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Directed by Nia DaCosta, this film is the second in a planned trilogy rebooting the 28 Days Later franchise. It features Jack O'Connell as Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal and Ralph Fiennes as Dr Ian Kelson. The narrative explores human cruelty during a zombie outbreak, with Kelson attempting to find humanity within an infected 'alpha'. The film has been noted for its strong performances and impactful climax.
Addition
Marcelle Lunam's rom-com stars Teresa Palmer as Grace, a mathematician with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) seeking romance. The film depicts Grace's unique perspective shaped by her condition. While praised for its original protagonist, the film's romantic chemistry has been observed to be underdeveloped.
Blue Moon
Richard Linklater directs this biopic about lyricist Lorenz Hart, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, alongside Andrew Scott as Richard Rodgers. Set on the opening night of 'Oklahoma!' in 1943, the film delves into Hart's struggles with alcoholism, professional displacement, and his closeted identity. Shot primarily in a confined setting, the film is described as an achingly beautiful exploration of the artistic dream, featuring strong performances from its lead cast.
It Was Just an Accident
Jafar Panahi's Palme d'Or-winning Iranian film follows Eghbal, whose accidental hitting of a dog leads to an encounter with Vahid. Vahid, a former political prisoner, recognizes Eghbal's distinctive gait, triggering memories of abuse from a prison guard. The film becomes an odyssey of retribution involving other former political prisoners, examining themes of trauma, state control, and dissent within Iran. It is recognized for blending humor and humanity amidst dire circumstances.
No Other Choice
Park Chan-wook's Korean black comedy thriller stars Lee Byung-hun as Yoo Man-su, a paper factory worker struggling after retrenchment. The film depicts his family's financial decline and Man-su's desperate plan to eliminate job competitors. It operates as a psychological thriller, crime caper, black comedy, and domestic drama, critiquing aspects of capitalism, artificial intelligence, and toxic masculinity.
Nouvelle Vague
Another film directed by Richard Linklater, this biopic is a tribute to French filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard and the creation of his 1960 debut, 'Breathless'. Guillaume Marbeck and Aubry Dullin portray Godard and his star, with Zoey Deutch playing Jean Seberg. The film captures the essence of the French New Wave, showcasing naturalistic dialogue and bold editing techniques, and is lauded for its artful cinematography and engaging performances.
The Secret Agent
Kleber Mendonça Filho's noir thriller is set in 1977 Recife, Brazil, during a period of military dictatorship. Wagner Moura stars as academic Armando, who plans to escape the regime with his son. The narrative features Armando navigating dangers, including hit-men, while residing among other dissidents. The film pays homage to Filho's hometown and the local cinema culture, blending a languorous style with moments of real-world violence.