A selection of 10 films about cinema for those who make films themselves or simply love movies.
On December 28, the world celebrates Cinema Day. On this day in 1895, the first film screening by the Lumière brothers took place at the Grand Café. Over the decades, directors from around the world have professed their love for this amazing art form.
We also confess our love for cinema by offering you a selection of the most interesting representatives of this genre.
«Cobweb» (Geomijip)
If you miss the charismatic Song Kang-ho, this is perfect for brightening up your evening.
Art demands sacrifices... and self-sacrifice? Kim Jee-woon reflects on this in his new film titled «Cobweb».
Open materialThe director realizes he has one last chance to go down in film history by reshooting his already completed film. But the studio is categorically against it, so he locks the cast on set and creates... A talented satirical drama about mediocrity and ambition, about purpose and hopelessness, made with great love for the art in the colorful setting of South Korea.
«The Fall»
«The Fall» is perhaps the most beautiful film from a fan of visual references, Tarsem.
A young stuntman with a broken body and a broken heart entertains a little girl with tall tales in the style of Terry Gilliam while they both spend their days in the hospital. The film aesthetically raises questions about the artist's path, what cinema is, and why it is needed. The visual concept of the film will undoubtedly impress you.
«Bergman Island»
A cinephile story about a couple of filmmakers traveling to Fårö island to soak up the spirit and inspiration of Ingmar Bergman.
On December 16, the first English-language film by Mia Hansen-Løve, «Bergman Island», finally reached cinemas. It makes you believe in your own strength and inspires new achievements.
Open materialThe film poses interesting and relevant questions to the characters and the viewer: where is the line separating the artist from the person, and who should we value more — the person in the artist or the artist in the person?
An excellent cast helps you immerse deeper into the story. It's a pleasure to see Mia Wasikowska even in a supporting role (let alone Tim Roth in the lead).
«The Disaster Artist»
A comedy from James and Dave Franco and Seth Rogen tells the story of the making of the cult film «The Room» by Tommy Wiseau.
A star-studded cast, good humor with room for both satire and irony, and most importantly, a cameo by Wiseau himself — all this reveals the seemingly eccentric figure from a new touching side. It even evokes respect for a man who sincerely wanted to make films (and did! What's your excuse?).
For me personally, «The Disaster Artist» is an authorial leap for the Franco-Rogen duo, where the guys showed the audience that they can do more than just sarcasm and satire, but also something more lyrical and personal.
«Paper Flowers» (Kaagaz Ke Phool)
The oldest representative of cinema (1958) in our selection, straight from India.
«Paper Flowers» is part of the golden fund of world cinema, and for good reason, as it is a very delicate and poignant story. The musical will tell you about everything: love, parenthood, loneliness, duty.
A forgotten director recalls his life just before his death. A drama that references «Citizen Kane», which will not leave even the most cynical viewers indifferent.
«Be Kind Rewind»
Michel Gondry is a well-known romantic storyteller, and «Be Kind Rewind» is another confirmation of this (though not about love at all).
Two friends, Jack and Mike, remake famous films (not for no reason, of course, but because they messed up) and get into trouble. Charming and fantastic, as always with Gondry. Jack Black is a great love, both in this film and in general. And what a poster the film has! Honey!
Automatic Goya (Gora Automatikoa)
A Spanish animated film about an unlucky filmmaker Galindo who desperately wants to win the national Goya film award. How will he succeed? Not without the help of equally unlucky friends Pablo and Dharma. I think many film professionals will recognize themselves here (at least, I do).
Atypical animation, amateur dubbing, and charismatic characters help to see the passion and emotions of the creators in this seemingly comedic story. The directors, by the way, gave the main characters their own names. Unfortunately, the film never won the Goya award, though it was nominated.
«Barton Fink»
The Coen brothers are the main philosophers of American cinema, and «Barton Fink» is their exploration of the storyteller's path in an absurd genre. It has everything we love them for: black humor, conflict, plot twist, in-camera editing, and masterfully written dialogue.
In its time, this black comedy won the Palme d'Or (a rarity for Americans). The film helped Steve Buscemi take the first step toward the title of «Prince of 90s Independent Cinema», and for me, it is still John Turturro's best role (though «No man f*cks with the Jesus» is also good).
«Our Beloved Month of August» (Aquele Querido Mês de Agosto)
A Portuguese comedy about a group of filmmakers who come to shoot a film in a small town. They spend a long time looking for actors in the Truffaut tradition — among ordinary people, immersing the viewer in the culture of conservative and devout Portugal.
An authentic setting, variety music, and Bulgakovian motifs in the story make the film by one of the country's most prominent directors, Miguel Gomes, gripping, lyrical, and thoughtful. It is a wonderful representative of slow European cinema, which is sometimes sorely missed.
And at the end, a touching scene awaits you, familiar to every filmmaker.
«Clerks III»
I decided to end our top with a film by Kevin Smith.
I won't hide it — I haven't seen the third 'Clerks' yet, but I'm already thrilled! Isn't that a reason for us to remember why Kevin Smith is so good?
Open materialRandal and Dante are still together, but now they are making a film about their lives. Smith has always been extremely honest with the audience in his universe, and that is endearing. Watching it feels more like meeting old friends: we don't learn much new, but we have a great time.
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