Criterion Collection, List 3

Along with many other people, I've always been intrigued by the films of Ingmar Bergman. With 'Through A Glass Darkly', Bergman began a trilogy that asked questions about God one can't help to ponder. A few the Bergman regulars return and they're all as great as they usually are. All of Bergman's tend to possess a similar quality that one can't help but feel the driving need to discuss the piece with someone else immediately after watching it, just to interpret every aspect of the film. 'Through A Glass Darkly' is gorgeously shot and a truly interesting story, but even with as good a film as this is, I still consider 'Winter Light' to be superior...

When it comes to great works of art, more often than not, simplicity is key. But within that simplicity lies complex subjects that will make you question things about yourself. That is one thing which makes Yasujuro Ozu's film 'Tokyo Story' so powerful. The situation is anything but farfetched and the scenario plays out more like the audience is spectating real life rather than watching a film. This is essential viewing for anyone interested in Japanese cinema or anyone obsessed with movies in general. As with many art house films, I find more satisfaction discussing them rather than merely writing about them, so, go watch it...

After such a successful career of creating some of the best films, why would anyone be surprised by that Kurosawa's first picture in color would be something as beautiful as this. On the modern end of the spectrum, I still believe Kurosawa outdid himself when he did 'Ran', but 'Kagemusha' was a perfect way to precede it. As with most of Akira Kurosawa' films, the cinematography blew me away and many of the images could've been taken directly from the film and framed. If you're still investigating this cinema, I recommend watching this prior to 'Ran', but it won't ruin it if you don't. With the endless amount of Kurosawa films there are to adore, this one doesn't quite reach the level of some, but it is still earns a high slot...

The most intriguing aspect of the film 'Burden of Dreams', is that you're finally able to witness the total the genius, and madness, behind the work of Werner Herzog. After having endless reels of films unveiling how unruly and boisterous Klaus Kinski was, we finally get to see the side of Herzog that contributed to the agitation, and get an outsiders perspective. 'Fitzcarraldo' is both a film I thoroughly enjoy and wholeheartedly admire, and 'Burden of Dreams' only helped to expand and reenforce that deep appreciation I possess. I'm usually not a fan of providing quotes within my reviews, but when faced with the difficulties delivering this film, Herzog said said this and it has stuck with me, he said "...if I abandon this project I would be a man without dreams and I don't want to live like that..." And with those words you understand who Herzog truly is...

There's no denying that Orson Welles was one of the best and most interesting film makers, and 'F for Fake' displays his talent very well. Through terrific editing and the art of storytelling, which Welles was certainly a master of, we get an interesting tale essentially about lying. I certainly understand how this piece may not for everyone, but it is an intriguing film with some unbelievable tales. I'd recommend giving it watch, but if you don't know what to expect, you may be confused after only one viewing...