Author name: Roger Hyttinen

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 117! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Yo film friends, buckle up because we’re diving into the deep end with “All of Us Strangers,” the 2023 masterpiece that’ll leave you equal parts emotionally drained and strangely hopeful. Directed by the genius Andrew Haigh (he of “Weekend” fame, remember that tearjerker?), this movie isn’t your average Hollywood flick. No explosions, no superheroes, just a raw, powerful exploration of grief, love, and the messy beauty of human connection.

Imagine this: Adam, a screenwriter haunted by past tragedies, bumps into the enigmatic Harry. Sparks fly, secrets spill, and suddenly Adam finds himself drawn back to his childhood home, where – plot twist! – his parents appear alive and well, frozen in time on the day they died. Talk about mind-bending!

Now, I won’t spoil the details (because seriously, go watch it!), but let me tell you, this movie is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Andrew Scott, as Adam, delivers a performance so nuanced and raw, you’ll feel his every heartache. Seriously, the guy deserves an Oscar (or two, or ten). And Paul Mescal, as the mysterious Harry, brings a captivating intensity that’ll keep you guessing until the very end.

But it’s not just the acting that makes this film sing. The way Haigh weaves the supernatural element into the deeply human story is pure magic. It’s like he took a sprinkle of “Ghost” and a dash of “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” threw them in a blender, and out came this poignant, thought-provoking masterpiece.

Now, let’s be honest, this movie will punch you right in the feels. There were moments when I was sniffling like a toddler who lost his juice box (don’t judge, we’ve all been there). But here’s the thing: the tears you cry are the good kind, the kind that cleanse your soul and leave you feeling strangely lighter. It’s like a cathartic release, a reminder that even in the face of immense loss, love and connection endure.

And speaking of love, the film explores it in all its messy, complex glory. We see Adam grapple with the ghosts of his past relationships, the yearning for what could have been, and the hesitant hope for new beginnings. It’s a reminder that love, in all its forms, is a powerful force that shapes us, scars us, and ultimately, makes us who we are.

So yeah, if you’re looking for a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll, a film that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, then “All of Us Strangers” is worth a view. Just be prepared to have your emotions put through the wringer (in the best way possible, obviously).

Catch you on the flip-side 👋
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 116! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends! Get ready because we’re going to take a trip to the dark side… Hungarian style. Today’s subject: “Post Mortem,” a film directed by the Péter Bergendy. Let me tell you, it was an experience I wasn’t fully prepared for. This is a movie that’ll have you clutching your plushie tighter than a toddler with a bedtime monster under the bed.

First things first, let’s set the scene: Hungary, 1917. World War I has left its scars, the Spanish Flu is lurking like a spectral cough, and Tomas, our protagonist, is a post-mortem photographer. Think Edward Scissorhands meets Ansel Adams, but way less scissor-y and way more corpse-y.

The main dude, Tomás, is played by this actor who has the perfect “I’ve seen too much” face. Honestly, his expressions throughout the movie had me oscillating between feeling sympathetic and just wanting to tell him to run for the hills. He’s got this brooding, melancholic vibe that practically screams “tortured artist” (minus the paint-splattered beret, thankfully). But hey, that’s what makes him perfect for the job, right? Capturing the final moments of folks who, let’s just say, won’t be winning any “most likely to haunt” awards anytime soon.

But things get… interesting… when Tomas starts photographing the dead with their eyes open. Yep, you read that right. Open. Freaking. Eyes. And here’s where the creep factor skyrockets like a possessed elevator on fast forward.

Enter Anna, a young girl with a mysterious connection to the afterlife (think Wednesday Addams with less sass and more spectral whispers). Together, they delve into the unsettling world of the undead, uncovering secrets that are darker than a Transylvanian coal mine at midnight.

Viktor Klem as Tomas brings the brooding intensity in spades, and Fruzsina Hais as Anna is equal parts eerie and captivating. It’s like they stepped straight out of a Tim Burton fever dream, and I mean that in the best way possible. Anna delivers a performance that’s both innocent and unsettling. You know, the kind that makes you want to hug her and simultaneously check under your bed before you go to sleep. The dynamic between her and Tomás adds this layer of, “Are we sure this is a good idea?” to the whole story.

The atmosphere of “Post Mortem” is like if someone took the creepiest parts of history, mixed it with a ghost story, and then said, “Yeah, let’s add some more shadows.” Every scene feels like you’re walking into a room with a history of whispers, and let’s not even get started on the sound effects. There were moments I was munching on my popcorn, and then a sound would just make me go, “Okay, that’s enough munching for now.”

But here’s where it gets wild: the film’s take on the afterlife and how it intertwines with the living world is fascinating. It’s like Bergendy sat down and thought, “How can I make the afterlife intriguing yet absolutely terrifying?”

And oh boy, does this movie deliver on the chills. It’s not jump-scares every five seconds (thank goodness!), but a slow, building tension that creeps under your skin like a spider and settles comfortably in your nightmares. This movie really sets a new bar for creepiness. There were times I caught myself saying, “Nope, nope, nope,” as I clutched my pillow like it could protect me from ghostly entities.

But here’s the thing: “Post Mortem” isn’t just scary. It’s also strangely beautiful, with a melancholic undertone that explores themes of grief, loss, and the thin line between life and death. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, making you ponder the mysteries of the beyond and the darkness that lurks within us all. It made me appreciate the comfort of my not-haunted living room and the simple joy of turning on every single light in my condo post-movie.

So, should you watch it? If you’re looking for a horror film that’s more than just cheap thrills, then absolutely! But maybe check your locks twice first….and just maybe keep a comedy queued up for after; you’ll thank me later. 😉

Catch ya on the flip side,
Roger

P.S. Did you know the practice of post-mortem photography was actually pretty common in the 19th century? It was a way for families to have a keepsake of their deceased loved ones. Kinda morbid, but also fascinating, right?

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 115! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there friends!

Today I’m back with a dive into a movie that’s equal parts thrilling chase, legal head-scratcher, and revenge fantasy: Double Jeopardy. You know, that 1999 movie where Ashley Judd is framed for her husband’s murder, suspects the whole thing was a setup, and then goes on a wild quest for justice? Buckle up, because this one’s got more twists than a pretzel factory!

First things first, let’s talk about the queen of this wild ride: Ashley Judd as Libby Parsons. Imagine your life turned upside down when your seemingly perfect hubby disappears in the middle of the ocean (with only you on the boat), only to be presumed dead, and bam! you’re wrongly convicted of murder. Talk about a bad day. But Libby’s not your average damsel in distress. This lady throws on her prison jumpsuit like it’s a power suit, determined to clear her name, find her son who was taken away, and maybe get a little payback. The moment she’s out on parole, it’s game on.

And who’s hot on her trail? Enter the ever-watchful, ever-intense Tommy Lee Jones as Travis Lehman, a U.S. Marshal with a glare that could curdle milk. He’s got his doubts about Libby’s innocence, but there’s something about her steely resolve that keeps him intrigued. Their cat-and-mouse chase across the country is like a popcorn-munching good time, with close calls, daring escapes, and enough double-crosses to make your head spin.

Now, I won’t spoil all the juicy details (gotta leave some surprises, right?), but let’s just say the plot thickens faster than gravy on Thanksgiving. There are hidden agendas, shocking revelations, and a legal loophole that’ll have you yelling at the screen, “Wait, that’s not how the law works!” (Spoiler alert: it’s not). But hey, who needs perfect realism when you’ve got heart-pounding action, a fierce heroine, and Tommy Lee Jones chewing scenery like it’s his day job?

Speaking of scenery, the film takes us from the claustrophobic prison walls to a yacht on the ocean to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. It’s like a mini-vacation with a side of revenge. 😎

But here’s the thing: Double Jeopardy isn’t just about the thrill ride. It’s about a mother’s unwavering love for her son, the fight for justice in a flawed system, and the blurred lines between vengeance and redemption. It’ll make you think, it’ll make you gasp, and it might even make you question your own definition of justice. Plus, there’s a surprising amount of humor sprinkled in, thanks to Libby’s sharp wit and some truly bizarre prison characters (did someone say “chainsaw juggling”? 🪓).

For me, watching “Double Jeopardy” felt like unearthing a time capsule from a bygone era of thrillers. It’s got its flaws, sure, but there’s a charm to its over-the-top plot and earnest performances. It reminded me why I love diving back into these older movies – they’re like comfort food for the soul.

So, if you’re looking for a film that’s equal parts entertaining, thought-provoking, and totally bonkers, Double Jeopardy is your jam. Just don’t go in expecting courtroom accuracy, and maybe have a lawyer on speed dial in case you need to fact-check some of the legal gymnastics. But hey, that’s half the fun, right? ⚖️

Until next time, happy movie watching! And remember, if you ever find yourself framed for murder, don’t forget the golden rule: never skip “arms” day. You might just need those muscles to outrun a relentless U.S. Marshal with a serious glare.

Peace out, ✌️
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 114! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, friends! 🌟

Let’s dive into the wild, wonderful world of “Pulp Fiction,” the 1994 cinematic masterpiece that left audiences both bewildered and begging for more. Quentin Tarantino really threw us for a loop with this one, and I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a good mind-bender now and then? 😜

This film isn’t your typical plot-follows-a-straight-line kinda deal. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle where the pieces are scattered all over the place, and you’re like, “What the heck is going on?” Tarantino, the king of the non-linear narrative, throws us into a blender of gangsters, hitmen with philosophical benders, a washed-up boxer, and a mysterious briefcase that’s more trouble than a clown car full of weasels.

Let’s talk about the cast – oh boy, it’s like the who’s who of Hollywood. John Travolta as Vincent Vega, strutting his stuff and reminding us why we loved him in “Saturday Night Fever.” Then there’s Samuel L. Jackson as Jules Winnfield, delivering one of the most iconic monologues in film history. His “Ezekiel 25:17” speech? Legendary. Uma Thurman as Mia Wallace gave us dance moves and an overdose scene that’s hard to forget. And Bruce Willis as Butch Coolidge, the boxer with a heart of… well, let’s just say he’s got his own set of problems. And all connected by a web of dark humor, violence, and unexpected plot twits. ️

The dialogue in this movie, you guys, it’s like nothing else. Tarantino has this way of making characters talk about the most random stuff – like foot massages and the correct way to eat a burger in Europe – and somehow, it’s utterly fascinating. It’s like he’s saying, “Hey, even hitmen chat about nonsense, just like us!”

And the soundtrack! 🎶 Each track is perfectly chosen to complement the scene it’s in, adding another layer of cool to the whole shebang. It’s the kind of music that makes you want to strut down the street like you’re in the movie.

But what I adore about “Pulp Fiction” is how it plays with time. The narrative isn’t linear; it jumps back and forth, leaving you to piece together the timeline. It’s like Tarantino is testing us, seeing if we’re paying attention. And when it all clicks, it’s so satisfying.

Now, I’ve gotta mention the humor. Yes, this movie is violent (like, really violent), but it’s also hysterically funny. The situations these characters find themselves in are so absurd, you can’t help but laugh. Like, who accidentally shoots a guy in the car? 🚗💥

Now, “Pulp Fiction” ain’t for everyone. It’s violent, it’s dark, it’s got some seriously messed-up moments (hello, adrenaline shot to the heart!). But for those who dig its gritty charm, its sharp dialogue, and its ability to turn everyday situations into mind-bending journeys, it’s a cinematic treasure. It’s like a box of Tarantino’s finest: equal parts shocking, hilarious, and thought-provoking.

IMHO, this isn’t just a film; it’s an experience. It’s like Tarantino grabbed a bunch of film genres, threw them in a blender, and served up something utterly unique. It’s weird, it’s wild, and it’s absolutely wonderful. Watching it, I felt like I was part of something special, a secret club of cinema lovers who appreciate the art of storytelling.

And honestly, isn’t that what movies are all about? Bringing us together, making us feel, and showing us that even in the most bizarre scenarios, there’s a story worth telling. “Pulp Fiction” did that for me, and I’m pretty sure it did for a lot of you, too.

Peace out, ✌️
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 113! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, lovely people! 🌈

So, after a recent deep dive into heavy dramas and a horror flick that left me checking under my bed more times than I’d like to admit, I decided my soul needed a bit of uplifting. Enter “Last Holiday,” directed by Wayne Wang, a 2006 gem starring the ever-fabulous Queen Latifah, and let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint! I absolutely adored this movie. It was like a much-needed breath of fresh air or, you know, like finding an extra fried cheese curd at the bottom of your takeout bag. Pure joy!

The plot? Oh, it’s a doozy in the best possible way. Imagine this: Georgia Byrd, played by the queen herself, is a kind-hearted but unassuming department store employee with a passion for cooking and a secret crush on her co-worker, the dreamy LL Cool J (yes, you read that right!). Her life takes a wild turn when a terminal diagnosis convinces her she only has weeks to live. Girl, talk about a wake-up call!

But instead of succumbing to despair, Georgia decides to seize the day (and her savings account) and embarks on a luxurious European vacation, living it up like she’s got a first-class ticket to the afterlife. From swanky hotels and Michelin-starred meals to skiing down mountains and gambling like a high roller (though, let’s be honest, with Queen Latifah’s charm, she probably could have talked her way into anything), Georgia throws herself into every experience with infectious enthusiasm. It’s the kind of storyline that makes you want to stand up and cheer for her, especially when she starts ticking items off her bucket list like there’s no tomorrow—because, for her, there might not be.

There’s this amazing scene where she has this heart-to-heart with the renowned Chef Didier, played by the legendary Gérard Depardieu. They bond over, you guessed it, food (because what else brings people together like a good meal?), and Didier drops this gem: “The meaning of life? Butter.” Deep, right? But also kind of true. Savor the good stuff, people!

But it’s not all champagne wishes and caviar dreams. Georgia grapples with the weight of her supposed illness, the guilt of keeping it a secret, and the fear of letting go of the life she’s built, even if it wasn’t exactly fulfilling. There’s humor, sure, but also genuine emotional depth.

And let’s talk about the cast! Queen Latifah is, well, a queen. She brings so much warmth, humor, and vulnerability to Georgia that you can’t help but root for her. LL Cool J is charming as ever, and the supporting cast, including Giancarlo Esposito and Alicia Witt, adds layers of humor and heart.

Since I was in desperate need of something lighter, “Last Holiday” felt like it was made just for me. It’s funny without trying too hard, touching without being overly sappy, and just the right amount of inspirational without turning into a motivational poster.

This movie really has heart. It’s a reminder that life is short, and sometimes, we need a little push to start living it to the fullest. Georgia’s journey from a reserved, dream-deferring wallflower to a woman who embraces every moment is the kind of transformation story I’m here for.

Random true fact time: Did you know that the hotel scenes were filmed at the Grandhotel Pupp in the Czech Republic? The place is as grandiose in real life as it appears in the film. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, which adds to the whole fantasy vibe of Georgia’s adventure.

So yeah, “Last Holiday” hit me right in the feels. It was the perfect palate cleanser after those heavy dramas and that one horror flick that shall not be named (because I’d like to sleep tonight, thank you very much). It’s a film that whispers to you, “Hey, it’s okay to dream big and live even bigger,” and honestly, that’s a message I can get behind.

So, if you’re looking for a movie that’s a mix of laughs, life lessons, and a little luxury, give “Last Holiday” a whirl. It might just be the cinematic hug you didn’t know you needed.

Catch you on the flip side, ✌️
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 113! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, lovely humans! 🌟

So, I just wrapped up watching “It Follows,” a horror flick directed by David Robert Mitchell, and oh boy, do I have some thoughts to share with you. First off, if you’re into movies that mess with your head and leave you peeking over your shoulder, you might wanna add this one to your list.

The gist of it goes something like this: after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, Jay, played by Maika Monroe, finds herself plagued by a relentless supernatural force that… well, follows. Sounds simple, right? But trust me, it’s anything but. The whole concept is like a twisted game of tag, but the stakes are literally life and death. 🏃‍♀️💀

The actors really bring their A-game. Maika Monroe? Absolutely killed it as Jay. She brings this vulnerability and determination that makes you root for her from start to finish. And her friends, oh my goodness, they’re the squad goals we all need when faced with a walking nightmare. The dynamic among the group feels so genuine, you’d think they’ve been friends for ages.

Now, let’s talk camera work. For the most part, it’s pretty stellar, capturing the eerie vibe of the film with these wide, panoramic shots that make you feel as trapped as Jay. But, and it’s a big but, there were a couple of moments where the camera decided to go on a caffeine binge. I’m talking super fast panning that turned scenes into a jumpy, blurry mess. Thankfully, it was just a couple of times, but it definitely had me blinking extra to make sure my eyes weren’t playing tricks on me.

The atmosphere in “It Follows” is something else. It’s like the director took the essence of every creepy, abandoned building vibe and distilled it into film form. And the soundtrack? It’s like if retro horror and synth had a love child that was destined to haunt your Spotify playlists.

But here’s the kicker, folks. This movie isn’t just about scares; it’s a clever metaphor wrapped in a ghost story. It tackles themes of sexuality, consent, and the inevitability of death in ways that are both subtle and smack-you-in-the-face obvious. Plus, it’s got that indie film feel without being too pretentious, which is a fine line to walk.

Okay, confession time: I may or may not have watched some scenes through my fingers. 😬 And I definitely made sure my doors were locked, like, three times. It’s that kind of movie.

In wrapping up this little chat, “It Follows” has left a mark on me. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the scariest things are the ones we can’t easily escape because they’re tied to the very essence of being human. Plus, it’s just a darn good horror flick that’s worth the watch, even if you end up like me, slightly paranoid and obsessively checking locks.

Stay spooky, my friends, and remember: sometimes, the slow creepers are the ones to watch out for. 🌙✨

See you on the flip side, 👋
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 112! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends,

Tonight’s film was equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and slightly scandalous (in the best way possible). I’m talking about “Hello I Must Be Going,” a 2012 indie gem that tackles love, life, and awkward age gaps with surprising tenderness and humor (Hmm…I seem to be on an ‘age gap’ kick recently). You know, this is one of those movies where you’re not sure what to expect, but then you’re left feeling like you’ve been on a personal journey with the characters. Yeah, that kind of vibe.

So, the story centers around Amy (played by the ever-awesome Melanie Lynskey), a 30-something divorcee who’s feeling lost and directionless. She moves back in with her wealthy parents (cue the hilarious family dynamics!), basically drowning her sorrows in wine and self-pity. And oh boy, if you thought your life was a mess, Amy’s is… well, let’s just say she’s in a bit of a pickle.

Enter Jeremy (the charmingly awkward hottie Christopher Abbott), a 19-year-old actor who’s practically sunshine personified. They meet at a party, sparks fly (of the unexpected kind!), and BAM, they’re having a secret, age-gap fling that throws both their lives into a hilarious tailspin.

Now, this isn’t your typical rom-com with predictable meet-cutes and happily-ever-afters. The age difference is a constant elephant in the room. But the beauty of the film lies in how it navigates this sensitive topic with honesty, humor, and genuine affection. We see Amy slowly blossom under Jeremy’s youthful enthusiasm, rediscovering her passion and zest for life. Jeremy, in turn, finds an emotional depth and stability he never expected. It’s a messy, complicated relationship, but their connection feels real, making you root for them even when things get, well, awkward (think stolen kisses at funerals and hiding from disapproving parents ).

And let’s talk about the performances! Lynskey is phenomenal as Amy, capturing her vulnerability, humor, and emotional journey with perfect nuance. Her portrayal of Amy is so genuine and relatable that you can’t help but feel for her. Abbott is equally brilliant, balancing Jeremy’s youthful charm with surprising maturity. Their chemistry is electric, sizzling through the screen even in the most awkward moments, making you root for this somewhat unconventional pairing..

Now, this film isn’t your typical rom-com. It’s more like a slice-of-life story that makes you laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear or two. It’s got that indie vibe that I absolutely adore, where the storytelling is more about the nuances of human emotions than big dramatic moments.

But “Hello I Must Be Going” isn’t just about the romance. It’s also a poignant coming-of-age story for both Amy and Jeremy. They challenge each other’s perspectives, forcing them to confront their own fears and insecurities. It’s a film that will make you laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear (or two), all while offering a refreshing take on love, life, and defying societal expectations.

One thing I loved about this movie is how it captures the awkwardness of life’s transitions. You know, those moments when you’re not sure if you should laugh or cry, so you just kind of… exist. It’s about finding yourself in the least likely places, and the journey Lynskey’s character goes through is both heartwarming and hilariously real.

If you’re looking for a film that’s honest, funny, and heartwarming, with a dash of unconventional romance thrown in, then “Hello I Must Be Going” is your jam. It might just be the cozy, introspective film you didn’t know you needed. Just be prepared for some awkward moments (because, let’s be real, life is awkward!), but trust me, they’re part of the charm.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself reflecting on your own life’s awkward moments, hopefully with a bit more grace and a lot more humor.

Catch you tomorrow! 👋
Roger