Culture Vulture (6th to 12th of January 2024)

January 4, 2024 at 6:14 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged film, movie-review, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

Welcome to Culture Vulture, your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative standpoint. Selections and writing are by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg. Highlights this week include a treat for Bowie fans from Sky Arts on Sunday night, the fascinating documentary The Cambridgeshire Crucifixion on Wednesday and the drama Black ’47 set around the Irish famine.

Saturday 6th of January 2024

Nomadland (2020 film) 10pm C4

Nomadland is a 2020 film directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Frances McDormand. The film is a fictionalized version of Jessica Bruder’s non-fiction book Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century. The film follows Fern, a widow who lives in her van and travels across the American West, taking on seasonal jobs to make ends meet. The film is a poignant portrayal of the struggles of older Americans who have been displaced by society.

From an alternative perspective, Nomadland can be seen as a cf life for those who have been left behind by society. It shows how the American Dream has become unattainable for many, and how people are forced to live on the margins of society. The film also touches on themes of community, resilience, and the human spirit. It shows how people can come together and support each other in times of need, and how they can find meaning and purpose in their lives even in the face of adversity.

Overall, Nomadland is a powerful film that offers a unique perspective on the American Dream and the struggles of those who have been left behind. It is a poignant and thought-provoking film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

Celts: The Untold Story 9pm Sky History

“Celts: The Untold Story” is a three-part documentary series that delves into the mysteries, myths, and arcane history of the Celts. The series reveals brand new information about the ancient civilization and is directed by Marek Bures and Max Serio. The series explores the factors that triggered the decline of the Celts in Central Europe, including why they moved from prosperous cities into smaller fortified settlements.

The Truth (2019 film) 1.10am BBC2

“The Truth” is a 2019 film directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Catherine Deneuve and Juliette Binoche. The film is a family melodrama that explores the complex relationship between a mother and daughter. From an alternative perspective, the film can be seen as a commentary on the nature of truth and memory. It highlights how our memories can be distorted by our own perceptions and how we often choose to remember things in a way that suits us. The film also touches on themes of aging, regret, and the importance of family.

The film’s central character, Fabienne, is a legendary French actress who has just published her memoirs. Her daughter, Lumir, returns from New York to Paris with her husband and daughter to celebrate the book’s release. However, Lumir soon discovers that her mother’s memoirs are full of lies and half-truths. The film explores the tension between the two women as they confront their past and try to come to terms with their relationship. Catherine Deneuve’s portrayal of Fabienne in “The Truth” is remarkable.

“The Truth” is a beautifully crafted film that offers a unique perspective on the nature of truth and memory. It is a poignant and thought-provoking film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. The film’s themes of aging, regret, and the importance of family are universal and will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Sunday 7th of January 2024

Deepwater Horizon (2016 film) 4.30pm GREAT!movies

“Deepwater Horizon” is a 2016 film directed by Peter Berg and starring Mark Wahlberg. The film is based on the true story of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion in 2010, which resulted in the largest oil spill in US history. The film is a commentary on corporate greed and the impact of environmental disasters on working-class communities.

The film highlights the dangers of prioritizing profits over safety and the devastating consequences that can result from such actions. It also sheds light on the struggles of the working-class people who are often the most affected by environmental disasters. The film’s portrayal of the oil rig workers as heroes who risk their lives to save others is a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity and community in times of crisis.

Overall, “Deepwater Horizon” is a thought-provoking film that raises important questions about corporate responsibility and the impact of environmental disasters on working-class communities. It is a powerful reminder of the need to prioritize safety and the well-being of people over profits.

Three treats for Bowie fans from 8pm on Sky Arts:

At 8pm, “Bowie: The Man Who Changed the World”: This feature-length documentary about David Bowie’s life and inspiration is a must-watch for any fan of the British rock icon. Unlike other documentaries that focus on Bowie as a musician, this film examines his revolutionary style and personas, from the ground-breaking Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke. The documentary is well put together and has enough interesting facts to keep you engaged.
At 10pm, “David Bowie: Love You Till Tuesday”: This 1969 promotional film was created to bring David Bowie to a wider audience. It includes a previously unreleased original recording of Space Oddity. The film is a curious recording that was never shown on a major network until now. It is a must-watch for any Bowie fan.
At 10.40pm, “David Bowie and Marc Bolan Urban Myths Programme”: This short film is a fictional comedy drama about a young David Bowie and Marc Bolan painting an office. The film is evocative and touching, and it is intriguing to see the two characters cautiously eye each other up with suspicion, play status games, and ultimately bond. The film is well put together and has enough interesting facts to keep you engaged.

The Massacre That Shook the Empire 9.45pm PBS America

The film is presented by The Times journalist, Sathnam Sanghera, and reveals the savage cruelty of the British strategy during the Amritsar massacre in 1919. Hundreds of Indian men, women, and children were shot and killed at the Jallianwala Bagh park by troops under British command. On a personal journey to educate himself about the event, Sanghera turns the pages of history through the testimonies of people there on the day, carefully preserved by various Indian historical organizations, interwoven with footage of the park today, interviews with expert historians, and Sanghera’s emotional meetings with descendants of victims.

Rush (2013 film) BBC1 11.30pm

“Rush” is a 2013 biographical sports drama film directed by Ron Howard. The movie depicts the rivalry between two Formula One drivers, James Hunt and Niki Lauda, during the 1976 season. The film highlights the triumph of James Hunt, a British driver, over his Austrian rival, Niki Lauda, in the World Championship. The film portrays Hunt as a charismatic and daring driver who embodies the spirit of British racing. The film also highlights the importance of teamwork and the role of the pit crew in a driver’s success. Critics have praised the film’s exhilarating race sequences, strong performances from Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl, and its accurate portrayal of the events. According to The Guardian, the film is a “fast and furious treat” that depicts the “swashbuckling F1 star James Hunt” and his rivalry with the “icy Niki Lauda”. Overall, “Rush” is a thrilling and well-made film that celebrates the triumph of James Hunt and his contribution to British racing.

Monday 8th of January 2024

Playboy: The Centrefolds That Changed the World 9pm Channel 5

“Playboy: The Centrefolds That Changed the World” explores the history of Playboy magazine’s centerfolds and how they have influenced popular culture over the years. The documentary features interviews with former Playmates and Playboy executives, as well as rare footage and photographs from the magazine’s archives

Land (2021 film) 9pm Film4

“Land” is a 2021 drama film directed by Robin Wright that explores themes of grief, isolation, and the restorative power of nature. The movie follows Edee, an urban-dwelling woman who moves to a remote cabin in the Rockies after a devastating tragedy. The film portrays the impact of grief on mental health and the importance of seeking help from others. Edee’s isolation from society is a reflection of how grief can distance people from their loved ones and make them crave solitude The film also highlights the significance of human connection and how it can help people overcome their struggles. Miguel, a hunter who teaches Edee how to survive in the wilderness, becomes an unexpected ally and friend. The film suggests that isolation isn’t the answer and that seeking help from others is essential for healing. The stunning cinematography and Robin Wright’s performance are noteworthy, but the film’s conventional plot and lack of energy have been criticized. According to The Guardian, the film is “conventional, competent” and “tame”. Roger Ebert praises the film’s portrayal of “multiple forms of isolation”. Overall, “Land” is a well-acted and visually stunning film that highlights the importance of human connection and seeking help from others to overcome grief and isolation.

Tuesday 9th of January 2024

Hue And Cry (1947 film) Film 4 5.05pm

“Hue and Cry” is a 1947 British film directed by Charles Crichton. The movie is generally considered to be the first of the Ealing comedies, although it is better characterized as a thriller for children. The film is set in a bombed-out post-World War 2 London neighborhood and revolves around a working-class children’s street culture and children’s secret clubs. The film portrays the impact of the war on the lives of children and how they cope with the aftermath. The film highlights the importance of imagination and creativity in the lives of children and how they use it to escape the harsh realities of their lives. The film also touches upon the themes of social inequality and the class divide in British society. The vivid portrait of a London still showing the damage of the Second World War is a notable historic document. Overall, “Hue and Cry” is a well-made film that provides a glimpse into the lives of children in post-war Britain and highlights the importance of imagination and creativity in their lives.

Wednesday 10th of January 2024

The Cambridgeshire Crucifixion 9pm BBC4

“The Cambridgeshire Crucifixion” documentary that aired on BBC Four on January 10th at 9 PM: The documentary, part of the Storyville series, tells the story of the discovery of evidence of Roman crucifixion in the Cambridgeshire Fens. The extremely rare discovery was made during a routine archaeological dig. The documentary is a fascinating and informative account of the discovery and the subsequent research that has been carried out.

The Favourite (2018 film) 10.55pm Film 4

“The Favourite” is a 2018 period comedy-drama film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. The movie is set in early 18th century England and follows the power struggle between three women in the royal house of England. The film explores themes of identity, performance, and the destructive potential of ambition. The film boasts of a talented cast including Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone, who deliver pitch-perfect performances. Critics have praised the film’s razor-sharp dialogue, stunning cinematography, and its portrayal of complex female characters. According to The Guardian, the film is “a filthy, violent and outrageous period comedy that drips with bad language and worse behaviour”. Roger Ebert describes the film as “a deliciously ‘Dangerous Liaisons’-esque and thoroughly female-driven period film”. Overall, “The Favourite” is a well-made film that offers a unique perspective on the power dynamics among women in the 18th century.

Blood Simple (1984) 1.15am Film4

“Blood Simple” is a 1984 American neo-noir crime film directed by Joel Coen and produced by Ethan Coen. The movie tells the story of a Texas bar owner who hires a private investigator to kill his wife and her lover. The film is a blood-soaked nightmare in which greed and lust trap the characters in escalating horror. The plot twists in upon itself, and characters are found in situations of diabolical complexity. The Coen brothers are masters of plot, and they build crazy walls with sensible bricks.

Thursday 11th of January 2024

The Eyes of Orson Welles 11.40pm BBC4

“The Eyes of Orson Welles” is a feature-length documentary that explores the life and work of the legendary director, actor, and pop culture icon Orson Welles. The film is directed by Mark Cousins, who takes a very personal approach to the subject matter. The documentary is a fascinating and insightful journey through Welles’ films, philosophies, and loves, as seen through his hundreds of sketches and paintings. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the life and work of Orson Welles, or in the art of cinema in general.

Friday 12th of January 2024

Black ’47 (2018 film) 11.20pm Film4

“Black ’47” is a 2018 Irish revenge western film directed by Lance Daly. The movie is set in the aftermath of the Irish famine of 1845 and tells the story of an Irishman who deserts from the British army and returns to his homeland to discover the truth about how his family have been tyrannized and allowed to die in squalor and misery. The film is a rousing, blood-spattered drama in which one Irishman holds the British colonialists to account for their wanton cruelty. The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw describes the movie as “a revenge horror, or revenge western. Revenge something, anyway”. The film has received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its brutal portrayal of the Irish famine and others criticizing its weak plot and unconvincing character motivations

and finally, The Lobster (2015 film) 1.25pm Film4

“The Lobster” is a 2015 absurdist black comedy film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. The movie is set in a dystopian world where being single can turn you into an animal. The film satirizes relationships and our conviction that couplehood is the supreme expression of human happiness, a civilised institution which distinguishes us from the beasts. The film examines both politics and sexual politics, and it is an interesting take on the pressure society puts on people to have a companion and the pitfalls of political factions. The movie is a dark satire on the subject of our universal obsession with relationships, and it is a must-watch for anyone who loves the genre.

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