Monday movies

Hey all,

First, I don't care what the haters say, but "Funky Forest" was the most fun I have had at the movies in a long time and killed the speakers in Newcomb. Thanks to all who came out, and I hope you were able to enjoy the absurdity. I know I did.

Here are a couple of films to think about this week.

"Goodbye Solo"

The third feature from up and coming/already there director Ramin - the dude that did Chop Shop - Bahrani, "Goodbye Solo," tells a story of hope via a Senegalese immigrant taxi driver in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Bahrani seems to have inherited the neo-realist mantle with his use of non-professional actors and the strong emphasis on place in his films. Subtle and well-crafted, this film has gotten rave reviews, like this one by A.O. Scott.

"Tokyo Sonata"

This film is not exactly new (premiered at Cannes in 2008), but Michelle told me about it last night and it seems really interesting. Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa is well-known for his thrillers and horror movies and finally tackles the most frightening subject of all: family. Perhaps now even more relevant now than when it was released, "Tokyo Sonata" tells the story of a man who has been laid off at his corporate position who continues to put on his suit and leave the house every day. His family, pushed to the breaking point, begins their own breakdown. Reminiscent of some of the themes of OFFscreen alum "Momma's Man," Kurosawa's film forces us to reconsider what really matters, especially in our current times. Review from The New Yorker.

Great-looking trailers after the jump