Culture Vulture (13th to 19th January 2024)

January 11, 2024 at 7:51 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged film, horror, movie, movies, reviews

4,042 words, 21 minutes read time.

Welcome to Culture Vulture, your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative viewpoint. Selections and writing is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg. Highlights this week include: the 2001 film Ali, a biography of Muhammad Ali, The War On Disco, a fascinating documentary from PBS America, and Beatriz At Dinner, an engaging study of class relations.

Saturday 13th of January 2024

Hope and Glory (1987 film) 10.30pm BBC2

“Hope and Glory,” directed by John Boorman and released in 1987, is a poignant and evocative film that masterfully captures the spirit of a tumultuous period in history through the lens of a British family during World War II. Set against the backdrop of the Blitz, the film skillfully intertwines personal narratives with broader social themes, offering a unique perspective on the impact of war on individuals and communities.

At its core, “Hope and Glory” explores the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. The central character, young Bill Rowan, played by Sebastian Rice-Edwards, serves as the audience’s conduit to the unfolding events. Through his innocent eyes, we witness not only the destruction caused by the war but also the resilience and adaptability of individuals forced to navigate through an uncertain and challenging period.

One of the film’s notable social themes is the transformation of societal norms during times of crisis. The war disrupts the traditional structures of British society, breaking down class barriers and reshaping gender roles. The Rowan family, like many others, find themselves living in a world that challenges established norms. The absence of fathers and husbands on the home front leads to a redefinition of gender roles, with women assuming responsibilities traditionally reserved for men. This shift is portrayed with both humor and sensitivity, highlighting the strength and resourcefulness of women during wartime.

The film also addresses the impact of war on the younger generation, exploring how children cope with the upheaval of their lives. Bill’s coming-of-age story is intricately linked to the broader societal changes, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence against the backdrop of air raids and rationing. The juxtaposition of the mundane struggles of growing up with the extraordinary circumstances of war creates a poignant commentary on the resilience of youth in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, “Hope and Glory” delves into the communal aspect of war, illustrating how shared experiences can forge unexpected bonds among diverse individuals. As the characters seek refuge in bomb shelters and share communal spaces, the film emphasizes the unifying force of a common threat. The war becomes a leveling factor that erodes social divisions, fostering a sense of collective identity and shared humanity.

“Hope and Glory” stands as a compelling exploration of social themes within the context of World War II. Through its vivid characters and heartfelt storytelling, the film effectively captures the resilience, adaptability, and communal spirit that emerges in times of crisis. Boorman’s direction, coupled with strong performances from the cast, ensures that “Hope and Glory” remains a timeless portrayal of the human experience during a pivotal moment in history.

Ali (2001 film) 11.05pm BBC1

Directed by Michael Mann, “Ali” (2001) is a biographical film that transcends the boundaries of a sports drama by delving deep into the racial, social, and political currents that defined the life of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Starring Will Smith in a transformative performance as the titular character, the film succeeds in offering a multifaceted portrayal of a cultural icon and his profound impact on American society.

Racial themes are at the forefront of “Ali,” reflecting the turbulent era of the 1960s and 1970s. The film unflinchingly explores Ali’s conversion to Islam and his conscientious objection to the Vietnam War, choices that were deeply rooted in his identity as an African American and a Muslim. The portrayal of Ali’s relationship with the Nation of Islam and his decision to change his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali sheds light on the intersectionality of race, religion, and identity in the context of a nation grappling with civil rights and social justice.

The film also underscores the social implications of Ali’s outspokenness and unapologetic Black pride. His refusal to conform to societal expectations and his bold declaration of “I am America” resonate as powerful statements against systemic racism and inequality. Mann skillfully weaves these social themes into the narrative, creating a compelling commentary on the role of sports figures as agents of change during a pivotal period in American history.

Politically, “Ali” captures the tumultuous relationship between Ali and the U.S. government during a period of intense social upheaval. His conscientious objection to the Vietnam War and subsequent legal battles, including his suspension from boxing and stripping of his world title, become symbolic of the larger struggle for civil rights and the right to dissent. The film portrays Ali as a symbol of resistance, challenging the status quo and inspiring a generation to question authority and fight for justice.

Will Smith’s nuanced portrayal of Ali adds a layer of authenticity to the film, capturing not only the charismatic bravado of the boxer but also the vulnerability and humanity beneath the public persona. The supporting cast, including Jamie Foxx and Jon Voight, contributes to the film’s richness, bringing depth to the relationships that shaped Ali’s life and legacy.

“Ali” transcends the conventional sports biopic by seamlessly integrating racial, social, and political themes into the narrative. Michael Mann’s direction, coupled with Will Smith’s compelling performance, ensures that the film not only pays tribute to the boxing legend but also serves as a powerful reflection on the broader struggles for racial and social justice in America. “Ali” stands as a poignant and timely exploration of an icon who transcended the boxing ring to become a symbol of resilience and change.

Sunday 14th of January 2024

Logan Lucky (2017 film) 4.25pm Great Movies

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, “Logan Lucky” is a delightful heist comedy that takes a refreshingly unconventional approach to the genre. Set against the backdrop of West Virginia’s blue-collar landscape, the film follows the Logan family as they embark on a daring scheme to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway during a high-profile NASCAR race. With a stellar cast led by Channing Tatum, Adam Driver, and Daniel Craig, “Logan Lucky” delivers a heaping dose of humor, heart, and Southern charm.

At its core, the film succeeds in subverting heist movie conventions. The Logan brothers, Jimmy (Tatum) and Clyde (Driver), along with their eccentric accomplice Joe Bang (Craig), form an unlikely trio of lovable misfits. Their characters are not the suave, seasoned criminals typically associated with the genre, but rather working-class individuals driven by a desire to break free from life’s hardships. This shift in perspective injects “Logan Lucky” with a unique blend of humor and empathy, as the audience roots for the underdog protagonists.

The humor in the film is both clever and endearing, laced with witty dialogue and unexpected twists. Soderbergh masterfully balances the comedic elements with moments of genuine emotion, creating a narrative that is not just about the heist but also about the bonds of family and friendship. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, and their performances contribute to the film’s overall charm.

“Logan Lucky” also excels in its portrayal of regional identity. The Southern setting serves as a backdrop that not only adds flavor to the story but also becomes an integral part of the film’s identity. The characters’ distinctive Southern drawls and mannerisms are embraced with affection rather than caricature, celebrating the uniqueness of the setting and its people.

Daniel Craig’s performance as the incarcerated explosives expert, Joe Bang, is a standout. Against type, Craig brings a comedic flair to his character, stealing scenes with his deadpan delivery and unexpected depth. The supporting cast, including Riley Keough and Seth MacFarlane, further enhances the ensemble’s dynamic, creating a memorable and entertaining cinematic experience.

“Logan Lucky” is also notable for its clever use of technology and modernity within a seemingly traditional heist narrative. The inclusion of cell phones, social media, and contemporary pop culture references adds a layer of relevance to the story, ensuring that the film resonates with audiences beyond its genre trappings.

“Logan Lucky” is a heist film with a heart, showcasing Soderbergh’s directorial finesse and the cast’s comedic prowess. With its unique characters, witty script, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, the film stands out as a delightful and unconventional entry in the heist comedy genre. It’s a rollercoaster ride that not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but also leaves you with a smile on your face.

Monday 15th January 2024

Undercover Doctor: The Secrets Of Your Big Shop 8pm Channel 4

This show features Dr. Michael Mosley, who investigates the health of the nation by examining the contents of people’s shopping carts. In each episode, Dr. Mosley meets a couple and goes undercover at the checkout to see what they’re buying. He then overhauls their diet and provides advice on healthy eating habits.

In this episode, Dr. Michael Mosley meets Natalie, a full-time mother from Birmingham, who suffers from irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. Her partner, Michael, is a teacher who is known to their five children as “beef bum” due to his toxic trumps and shocking bloating. The couple believes that they eat healthily and buy salads, veggies, healthy proteins, and carbs. However, when Dr. Mosley goes undercover at the checkout, he discovers that their trolley tells another story, and he starts them on a gut-busting food revamp. In addition, Dr. Mosley tests out the viral TikTok craze for the egg diet and delivers health hacks for pizza and spag bol.

Moneyboys (2021 film) 1.15am Film4

“Moneyboys” is a 2021 film directed by C.B. Yi that explores the life of a young man named Fei who moves from a rural Chinese village to Austria as a teenager. The film depicts the struggles of gay life in China, where stories about gay life are few and far between due to the government’s strict censorship regime. The film is a rare depiction of contemporary gay life in China, filmed in neighboring Taiwan, and uses an exploration of sex work not only as a way of addressing attitudes towards sexuality in a conservative country, but the increasing gulf in prospects for young people between rural areas and cities. The film is a melancholic character drama and a grander study on simmering economic and cultural tensions, be they regional or generational. Through Fei’s various interactions with other characters, a clear theme rings throughout the film: the sacrifice of one’s happiness for the sake of others. Lovers sacrifice for the ones they love, young adults sacrifice to meet family expectations, LGBTQ+ sacrifice to fit the molds of society.

In “Moneyboys”, Fei’s family is initially accepting of the money he sends them from his work as a sex worker, but they are unwilling to accept his sexuality. When Fei visits his home village to see his dying grandfather, his family struggles to hide their shame that their son makes money sleeping with other men. This complicates things, as Fei has kept donating significant chunks of his paycheck to his family. Fei realizes the hypocrisy of his family who are happy to take the money he makes from hustling on the street but unwilling to accept his sexuality.

The film covers the topic of male prostitution in Taiwan/China, and the trauma that many gay/bisexual/MSM men face in society. A large part of this is due to the familial pressure to marry and have children, which is something many young people in Taiwan and China may relate to. The film was deliberately slow-paced, and it’s a curious film that doesn’t feel culturally specific in its approach to the subject matter, as the heart of the drama appears to be a universally relatable tale of gay self-acceptance in the face of homophobia from family and wider society.

Tuesday 16th January 2024

The War On Disco 8.35pm PBS America

“The War on Disco” is a PBS documentary that explores the culture war that erupted over the spectacular rise of disco music in the late 1970s. The show examines how disco, which originated in underground Black and gay clubs, had unseated rock as America’s most popular music by the late 1970s
. However, many diehard rock fans viewed disco, with its repetitive beat and culture that emphasized pleasure, as shallow and superficial. The hostility came to a head on July 12, 1979, when a riot broke out at “Disco Demolition Night” during a baseball game in Chicago.

The documentary is about much more than music. It explores how the powerful anti-disco backlash revealed a cultural divide that to some claimed was driven by racism and homophobia. The show features interviews with people who were involved in the disco scene, including DJs, musicians, and club-goers, as well as those who opposed it. The documentary also examines the impact of disco on fashion, dance, and popular culture.

Trump: The Return? 9pm ITV1

This show features Robert Moore, an award-winning ITV News correspondent, who takes the temperature of America as it begins an election year with former president Donald Trump in a significant lead in polling over incumbent Joe Biden. The show explores the possibility of Trump’s return to the White House and the impact it could have on the country.

Beatriz At Dinner (2017 film) 11.15pm BBC2

“Beatriz at Dinner” is a 2017 film directed by Miguel Arteta that explores themes of politics, class, and environmentalism. The film follows the story of Beatriz, a Mexican holistic healer and masseuse living in California, who is invited to a dinner party hosted by her wealthy client, Cathy, and her husband, Grant. The dinner party is attended by other wealthy couples, including a real estate mogul named Doug, who embodies the ugly side of white privilege and capitalism12. The film uses its seven characters to unpack micro-aggressions, racist and classist assumptions, and violence against animals and the planet.

The film is a character study of Beatriz, who is portrayed as a heart-filled saint, and all the wealthy characters as heartless and shallow in their desire to destroy all that is good in the world3. Beatriz’s worldview is challenged by Doug’s monstrous lack of consideration for those outside his capitalist bubble, and the film explores the dichotomy between the two political polar opposites embodied in two very strong performances4. The film is a savage takedown of ugly privilege, but it’s also a poignant exploration of the sacrifices that individuals make to fit into society’s moulds and the struggle to find acceptance and happiness in a world that is often hostile to those who are different.

Greed (2019 film) 11.40pm Film4

“Greed” is a 2019 satirical black comedy film directed by Michael Winterbottom. The film stars Steve Coogan, David Mitchell, Asa Butterfield, Dinita Gohil, Sophie Cookson, Jonny Sweet, Asim Chaudhry, Shirley Henderson, and Isla Fisher. The film explores themes of politics, class, and environmentalism. The film follows the story of Sir Richard “Greedy” McCreadie, a high-street fashion mogul, as he prepares for a monumentally tasteless, Roman-themed 60th birthday party on the plutocrats’ island of Mykonos. McCreadie has just suffered a nightmare of bad publicity following a catastrophic performance in front of a parliamentary select committee, and all the celebs are starting to pull out of his bash. The film uses its characters to explore micro-aggressions, racist and classist assumptions, and violence against animals and the planet.

Scenes exposing the treatment of sweatshop workers add seriousness.

The film is a caricature of the Topshop supremo Philip Green, played by Steve Coogan with a tan, an open-necked shirt, silver-grey hair, and emulsion-white teeth. The movie rattles along in mockumentary style, giving us a moment-by-moment display of this hideous carnival of vanity and suppressed despair.

Wednesday 17th January 2024

Liar: The Fake Grooming Scandal 9pm BBC3

“Liar: The Fake Grooming Scandal” is a factual television series that features Ellie Williams, a 22-year-old woman from Cumbria who was jailed for lying about being trafficked and raped by an Asian grooming gang. The series explores the impact of her false allegations on the community and the justice system.

The show raises several issues, including the prevalence of false allegations of sexual assault and the impact of such allegations on the accused and the justice system. It also highlights the importance of investigating such allegations thoroughly and the need to support genuine victims of sexual assault. It should be remembered that this was an unusual case. In Cumbria in 2020-21, there were 46 reported offences of perverting the course of justice. In comparison, there were 1,177 reports of rape, sexual assault and trafficking. The series also explores the issue of racial profiling and the impact of such profiling on the Asian community.

The question of her motivation was one that remained unexplained at her trial – a transcript from one police interview showed an officer asking her whether she simply liked getting the force’s attention.

A Star Is Born (2018 film) 10.40pm BBC1

“A Star Is Born” is a 2018 American musical romantic drama film directed by Bradley Cooper. The film stars Cooper, Lady Gaga, Dave Chappelle, Andrew Dice Clay, and Sam Elliott. It follows the story of Jackson “Jack” Maine, a famous country rock singer who is privately battling an alcohol and drug addiction. After a show, Jack goes out for drinks and visits a drag bar where he witnesses a tribute performance to Édith Piaf by Ally, a young waitress and singer-songwriter. Jack discovers and falls in love with Ally, and the two begin a passionate relationship. The film explores themes of addiction, love, and the price of fame, and it’s the fourth American adaptation of the story, after the original 1937 romantic drama and its 1954 and 1976 remakes. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $436 million worldwide and receiving widespread praise for Cooper, Gaga, and Elliott’s performances and Cooper’s direction, as well as the screenplay, cinematography, and music. The film received numerous accolades, including eight nominations for the 91st Academy Awards, among them Best Picture, Best Actor (Cooper), Best Actress (Gaga), and Best Supporting Actor (Elliott); it won Best Original Song for “Shallow”. The film’s soundtrack sold over six million copies worldwide and received a total of four Grammy Award wins out of seven nominations, including nominations for Song of the Year two years in a row. Its lead single “Shallow” is one of the world’s best-selling singles of all time. For her acting and soundtrack contributions on “A Star Is Born”, Gaga became the first woman in history to win an Academy Award, Grammy Award, BAFTA Award, and Golden Globe Award in one single year.

Thursday 18th January 2024

Citizen Kane (1941 film) 8pm BBC4“Citizen Kane” is a 1941 American drama film directed by Orson Welles. The film follows the life of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper magnate, and his rise to power and eventual downfall. The film explores themes of politics, class, and the difficulty of interpreting a person’s life once that life has ended. The film is a masterpiece of cinema and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

The film covers a wide range of social and political themes, including the rise of the penny press, the Hearst-supported Spanish-American War, the birth of radio, the power of political machines, the rise of fascism, and the growth of celebrity journalism32. The film is a subtle satire that acts as a cutting allegory of Trump’s America4. The film is a character study of Kane, who is portrayed as a man who had every material advantage in life but lacked a feeling of human sympathy and tolerance.

“Citizen Kane” is a thought-provoking film that uses its characters to explore themes of politics, class, and the difficulty of interpreting a person’s life once that life has ended.

Friday 19th January 2024

Elmer Gantry (1960 film) 9.50am Talking Pictures

Based on Sinclair Lewis’s satirical novel, “Elmer Gantry,” directed by Richard Brooks in 1960, is a compelling examination of the intertwining realms of religion, politics, and society in post-World War I America. Starring Burt Lancaster in the titular role, the film follows the charismatic and opportunistic Elmer Gantry as he exploits the fervor of religious revivalism for personal gain, exposing the underbelly of moral hypocrisy in a rapidly changing nation.

One of the central social themes in “Elmer Gantry” is the critique of organized religion and the manipulation of faith for personal and political gain. Gantry, a smooth-talking and charming drifter, transforms into a charismatic preacher to capitalize on the emotional vulnerability of congregations seeking salvation. The film skillfully unveils the darker side of religious fervor, portraying Gantry as a complex character who uses the pulpit not for spiritual enlightenment but as a stage for self-promotion.

The film also delves into the intricate relationship between religion and politics during a period marked by societal shifts. Set against the backdrop of the Prohibition era and the Roaring Twenties, “Elmer Gantry” illustrates how the intersections of faith and politics become powerful tools for manipulating public sentiment. Gantry’s alliance with a fervent evangelist, Sister Sharon Falconer (played by Jean Simmons), highlights the merging of religious zeal and political ambition, creating a potent commentary on the blurred lines between church and state.

At its core, “Elmer Gantry” is a scathing critique of the moral duplicity prevalent in American society. The film examines the dichotomy between public virtue and private vice, portraying Gantry as a symbol of the hypocrisy that can thrive under the guise of religious righteousness. The narrative challenges viewers to question the authenticity of those who claim moral authority, urging them to scrutinize the motivations behind charismatic leaders who exploit the public’s faith for personal gain.

Burt Lancaster’s powerhouse performance as Elmer Gantry earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, providing depth to the character’s charisma, charm, and underlying moral decay. The supporting cast, including Jean Simmons and Shirley Jones, contributes to the film’s success in presenting a nuanced exploration of complex characters navigating a morally ambiguous landscape.

“Elmer Gantry” remains a timeless classic that deftly explores social and political themes within the context of religious revivalism in early 20th-century America. Richard Brooks’ direction, coupled with the stellar performances of the cast, ensures that the film’s critique of hypocrisy and the manipulation of faith resonates with audiences, making it a thought-provoking cinematic experience that remains relevant to discussions on the intersections of religion and societal values.

Zola (2020 film) 10.55pm Film4

“Zola” is a 2020 American black comedy crime film directed by Janicza Bravo and co-written by Bravo and Jeremy O. Harris. The film is based on a viral Twitter thread from 2015 by Aziah “Zola” King and the resulting Rolling Stone article “Zola Tells All: The Real Story Behind the Greatest Stripper Saga Ever Tweeted” by David Kushner. The film follows the story of Zola, a part-time stripper who is convinced by her new friend Stefani to go on a road trip to Tampa, Florida, in order to earn money, only to get in over her head. The film is a morality tale that explores the consequences of making bad decisions and the importance of being true to oneself. Zola’s journey is a cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting strangers and the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings. The film is a savage takedown of the sex industry and the exploitation of women. “Zola” is a thought-provoking film that uses its characters to explore themes of morality, exploitation, and the importance of being true to oneself.

Picture credits

Permalink

Counter Culture