Ida, a catholic nun on the verge of taking her vows, discovers her Jewish history and life outside of the convent. Which in post-war Poland, might not seem to be any more aspirational than whats within the four walls of her convent. Between the past and the present, Ida needs to make her choice for the future. Sparse in dialogue, colour and motion, Ida manages to say a great deal - like in 80 minutes or so. Very nice.
Rating: * * +
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One of those stories of the 80s that told you all that went on in a family. Here its mother (Shirley Maclaine, who was really good) and daughter (Debra Winger) who help each other through their respective lives. Jack Nicholson as an astronaut neighbour of the mother provides good distraction. Good for sunday brunch viewing. Bit of a surprise that it collected 5 Oscar awards.
Rating: * *
In the aftermath of Diana's death (one of the most ridiculously followed events, esp. considering that Mother Teresa died a few days later), its the moment of truth for the English Royalty to deal with the overwhelming show of emotion from the people of UK. A young PM takes it upon himself to force the Queen from moving away from protocol and do something different. Helen Mirren puts a 1 number credible performance, but the Oscar should have gone to this other british 1 number actress - Judy Dench. Rating: * *
A fictious story of a young Scotsman who grabs the opportunity to become part of the what appears to be the greatest revolution in the African continent - by accepting to become the personal doctor to the evil Idi Amin. The rest of the movie shows what a big fuckup that was and how he tries to extricate himself from the mess - much of which is his own shit. Based on a novel of the same name, the lead character of the young scotsman is based on the true story of a British soldier who actively partnered the dictator in the various crimes. Forest Whitaker is impressive, but I find it a bit hard to believe that he should swoop all 45 awards in the season. But then such is life. Rating: * *
Adapted from a play, this ones about an alcoholic English prof who unwittingly becomes a victim of unrequited love, as a working-class hairdresser lady turns up in his room to learn English. As Julie Winters character aspires to transform her life with the education, the cynical alcoholic is increasingly attracted to the spontaniety of her working-class background. Michael Caine as always delivers a strong performance, while Julie Winters makes the transformation very real.Rating: * * +
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