Posts Tagged Martin Scorsese

Culture Vulture (28th of October to 3rd of November 2023)

October 28, 2023 at 6:23 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , ,

Welcome to Culture Vulture your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative viewpoint. Highlights this week include, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: a heartwarming biographical drama that explores the transformative friendship between journalist Lloyd Vogel and beloved television personality Fred Rogers; George Carlin’s American Dream, an insightful documentary that delves into the sharp wit and provocative social commentary of the iconic comedian George Carlin, and a stylish and suspenseful thriller that follows a fashion photographer who experiences disturbing premonitions of murders through her lens. Selections and reviews are by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg.

Saturday 28th of October 2023

Discovery Film: Horror Special 11pm Sky Arts

“Discovering Film: Horror Special” is a Sky Arts program that features authors and film critics discussing their favorite horror movies. The show is hosted by Mark Kermode, the well-known British film critic and writer. The program is part of the “Discovering Film” series, which celebrates the lives and work of some of the most prolific and iconic Hollywood stars.

The “Horror Special” episode features Bonnie Greer, Ian Nathan, and other film critics discussing their favorite horror movies, including “The Omen,” “The Exorcist,” and “Frankenstein”.

A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood (2019) 1.05am C4

“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” (2019) is a heartwarming film that beautifully exemplifies social and ethical themes, making it not just a movie but a poignant lesson in compassion and the importance of human connection.

The film revolves around the iconic children’s TV host Fred Rogers, portrayed masterfully by Tom Hanks. Rogers is the epitome of kindness, empathy, and moral integrity. His unwavering commitment to promoting emotional intelligence, understanding, and acceptance resonates deeply in today’s world, where society often struggles with divisiveness and intolerance.

One of the central ethical themes of the movie is forgiveness. The character of journalist Lloyd Vogel, played by Matthew Rhys, harbors deep-seated resentment and anger, illustrating how grudges can weigh us down. Through his interactions with Rogers, we witness the transformative power of forgiveness and the importance of letting go of past grievances, a message that is highly relevant in a world marred by grudges and conflicts.

The film also tackles the theme of authenticity in a society often characterized by superficiality and pretense. Fred Rogers’ genuine and unapologetic sincerity challenges the prevailing notion that cynicism is a sign of maturity. His authenticity serves as a reminder of the ethical imperative to be true to oneself, a message that is increasingly valuable in a world where superficiality often masks our true feelings and identities.

“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” explores the profound impact of positive role models. In a society where celebrity culture can often overshadow true moral and ethical role models, Fred Rogers stands as a shining example of someone who used his fame to spread positivity and change lives for the better. The film encourages viewers to seek out and celebrate such inspirational figures who promote values like kindness, empathy, and inclusivity.

“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film that delves into social and ethical themes that are particularly relevant in our contemporary society. Through the character of Fred Rogers, the film emphasizes the importance of kindness, forgiveness, authenticity, and the need for positive role models to guide us towards a more compassionate and ethical world. It is a reminder that we should all strive to be a little bit more like Mr. Rogers in our daily lives.

Sunday 29th of October 2023

George Carlin’s American Dream 3pm Sky Documentaries

“George Carlin’s American Dream” is a documentary film directed by Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio that chronicles the life and work of the legendary comedian George Carlin 12. The documentary opens an intimate window into Carlin’s personal life, including his childhood in New York City, his long struggle with drugs that took its toll on his health, his brushes with the law, his loving relationship with Brenda, and more 32.

The first part of the documentary follows Carlin’s rise to fame in the 1960s comedy scene and his realization that he was meant for something edgier than the mainstream variety-show circuit. The second part of the documentary focuses on Carlin’s later years, including his political activism, his thoughts on religion, and his legacy as one of the most influential comedians of all time.

Elon Musk’s Twitter Takeover 8.25pm PBS America

“Elon Musk’s Twitter Takeover” is a two-hour documentary produced by PBS America that explores Elon Musk’s relationship with Twitter. The documentary delves into Musk’s journey from being one of the platform’s most provocative users to its sole proprietor, exploring the acquisition, free speech, and the company’s uncertain future.

Under The Skin (2013 film) 1.40am Film4

“Under the Skin” (2013), directed by Jonathan Glazer, is a hauntingly enigmatic and visually striking film that delves deep into themes of loneliness, love, and human identity, creating an unsettling exploration of the human condition.

Loneliness is a pervasive theme throughout the film, as Scarlett Johansson’s character, an alien in human form, roams the streets of Scotland in search of solitary men. The film’s portrayal of loneliness is chilling, as it highlights how disconnected individuals can be in a densely populated world. The alien protagonist preys on the isolated, echoing the idea that loneliness can make people vulnerable, susceptible to manipulation, and yearning for any form of connection.

Love, on the other hand, is depicted as an alien concept to the protagonist. Her dispassionate and predatory nature contrasts sharply with the human capacity for emotional connection. As she observes the fleeting moments of human affection, the film raises questions about the authenticity and depth of human love. It challenges viewers to contemplate the sincerity of our emotions and whether genuine love can exist in a world where superficiality often masks our true intentions.

The exploration of human identity in “Under the Skin” is a central and perplexing theme. As the alien takes on a human guise, she begins to question her own identity and purpose. This theme forces us to reflect on the complexities of identity, the masks we wear in society, and the search for a genuine sense of self. The film pushes us to consider what it truly means to be human, as the protagonist’s experiences lead her to grapple with emotions and self-awareness.

The film’s abstract and visually arresting style, paired with Mica Levi’s haunting musical score, enhances the sense of alienation and detachment. The imagery and sound design draw viewers into an eerie, dreamlike world that reflects the isolation and emotional detachment felt by the characters.

“Under the Skin” is a thought-provoking and unsettling exploration of loneliness, love, and human identity. It challenges us to examine the nature of human connection and the intricacies of human emotions. Through its enigmatic narrative and striking visuals, the film leaves a lasting impression, inviting viewers to contemplate the depths of the human experience and our capacity for both cruelty and compassion. It’s a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, provoking profound questions about the human condition.

Coco (2017 film) 2.05pm BBC1

“Coco” (2017), directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, is a heartwarming and visually stunning animated film that not only captivates the audience with its vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture but also explores profound themes of family, memory, and the power of pursuing one’s passion.

Set against the backdrop of the Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), “Coco” invites viewers into a vibrant and enchanting world where the boundary between the living and the deceased is beautifully blurred. The film weaves a compelling narrative that explores the importance of remembering and honoring one’s ancestors, making it a celebration of Mexican culture and an ode to the universal theme of family.

At its core, “Coco” delves into the theme of family. The story revolves around Miguel, a young boy with a burning desire to become a musician, despite his family’s strict ban on music. This central conflict between Miguel’s passion and his family’s traditions leads to a touching exploration of the complexities of familial relationships. The film powerfully conveys the idea that family is a source of both love and friction, and it teaches us the importance of understanding, forgiveness, and the bonds that tie generations together.

“Coco” also introduces the concept of memory and how it connects generations. As the characters journey through the Land of the Dead, they discover that one’s memory can determine whether they continue to exist in the afterlife. This theme encourages viewers to reflect on the significance of the stories and memories we inherit and pass on, emphasizing the idea that our loved ones live on through our remembrance.

Visually, “Coco” is a breathtaking masterpiece. The animation is rich in detail, and the Land of the Dead is a vibrant, kaleidoscopic world that is a treat for the eyes. The film’s musical score is equally remarkable, with memorable songs that capture the essence of Mexican folklore and tradition.

“Coco” is a heartwarming and visually mesmerizing animated film that celebrates the rich tapestry of Mexican culture while touching on universal themes of family, memory, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Its messages about the power of remembering and the enduring bonds of family resonate with viewers of all ages, making it a truly heartwarming and memorable cinematic experience.

Monday 30th of October 2023

This Cultural Life: Werner Herzog 2.15pm BBC RADIO 4

German film-maker and writer Werner Herzog talks to John Wilson about his cultural inspirations.

Night Of The Demon (1957 film) 10.05pm Talking Pictures

“Night of the Demon” (1957), directed by Jacques Tourneur, is a classic horror film that stands the test of time, offering a masterclass in suspense, supernatural intrigue, and psychological terror.

The film, based on M.R. James’s story “Casting the Runes,” is a brilliant example of atmospheric horror. It skillfully balances the ambiguity of the supernatural with the rational skepticism of its characters. This duality keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, questioning whether the malevolent force is real or a figment of the characters’ imaginations.

One of the film’s standout features is its intelligent and engrossing plot. It follows Dr. John Holden, played by Dana Andrews, an American skeptic who investigates the alleged supernatural powers of the sinister Dr. Julian Karswell, portrayed by Niall MacGinnis. The tension escalates as Holden delves deeper into the mystery, and the sense of foreboding grows with every revelation, leading to a climactic and chilling finale.

“Night of the Demon” explores the theme of the battle between science and the supernatural. Dr. Holden represents rationality and skepticism, while Karswell embodies the occult and the unexplained. This clash of worldviews adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a typical horror film. It questions the limits of human knowledge and confronts the audience with the unknown.

The film’s cinematography is striking, with Tourneur’s expert use of shadows and lighting to create an eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The demon itself, when finally revealed, is a testament to the practical effects of the era, adding a sense of dread and mystique to the story.

In terms of performances, Dana Andrews and Niall MacGinnis deliver compelling portrayals of their respective characters. MacGinnis, in particular, infuses his role with a sinister charm that leaves a lasting impression.

“Night of the Demon” is a vintage horror gem that relies on suspense and psychological horror rather than gore and jump scares. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to leave the audience with persistent questions and an abiding sense of unease, making it a must-see for classic horror enthusiasts and a reminder of the potency of old-fashioned storytelling and atmosphere in the genre.

Tuesday 31st of October 2023

How Safe is Maternity Care? 8pm BBC RADIO 4

Ten years ago, journalist Krupa Padhy lost her first child because of medical negligence. Now she wants to find out what, if anything, has changed in Britain’s maternity wards.

Wednesday 1st of November 2023

Doctor Who @ 60: A Musical Celebration 8.30pm BBC4

“Doctor Who @ 60: A Musical Celebration” is a special concert that celebrates the iconic and much-loved TV series. The concert features the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the BBC Singers, conducted by Alastair King.

The concert is part of the celebrations for the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who. The show features music from the series’ most memorable episodes, including “The Daleks,” “The Tomb of the Cybermen,” and “The Day of the Doctor” . The concert also includes performances by guest artists such as Murray Gold, who composed music for the series from 2005 to 2018.

Thursday 2nd of November 2023

In Our Time: Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics 9am BBC RADIO 4

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Aristotle’s influential approach to the questions of how to live a good life and what happiness means, originally aimed at the elite in Athens.

Friday 3rd of November 2023

Eyes Of Laura Mars (1978 film) 9.05pm Talking Pictures

“Eyes of Laura Mars” (1978), directed by Irvin Kershner, is a stylish and provocative thriller that, beneath its glossy exterior, delves into social themes of the late 1970s, enriched by the disquieting fact that Laura’s photography often involves capturing women in degrading or violent poses. These themes add a layer of social commentary to its gripping narrative, reflecting the era’s changing societal attitudes.

At its core, the film mirrors the shifting societal dynamics concerning women and their roles. The titular character, Laura Mars, portrayed by Faye Dunaway, is a successful fashion photographer who becomes a witness to a series of gruesome murders. Her profession as a photographer offers a unique lens through which to examine the objectification of women in media, a theme that was gaining prominence during the feminist movement of the 1970s. Laura’s glamorous, high-fashion world is contrasted with the violence and voyeurism that she encounters, emphasizing the tension between image and reality, which parallels the challenges women faced in their struggle for empowerment.

The film also touches upon the theme of voyeurism and the intrusion of the private into the public sphere. As Laura Mars’ work involves capturing intimate and often exploitative moments through her camera lens, it raises questions about the ethics of surveillance and the invasion of privacy, a theme that has only become more pertinent in today’s digital age.

Furthermore, “Eyes of Laura Mars” explores the idea of desensitization to violence through media. In the film, Laura’s work blurs the line between art and exploitation, mirroring the concerns of society regarding the effects of graphic or sensationalized media content on its consumers. This theme of desensitization to violence has continued to be a topic of discussion in contemporary society, particularly in the context of video games, film, and television.

The film’s social commentary is enriched by its compelling blend of fashion and crime genres, creating a layered narrative that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the cultural shifts of its time. “Eyes of Laura Mars” serves as a captivating exploration of the changing role of women in society, the ethical dilemmas of media, and the desensitizing impact of violent imagery, all within the unsettling context of Laura’s photographic choices. Its ability to engage with these themes while delivering a suspenseful and stylish story makes it a thought-provoking and enduring piece of cinema.

And finally, Mean Streets (1973 film) 11.10pm Film4

“Mean Streets” (1973), directed by Martin Scorsese, is a gritty and groundbreaking film that delves deep into the social themes of its time while providing a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of its characters.

Set against the backdrop of New York’s Little Italy, the film explores the harsh realities of urban life, crime, and the struggle for survival. It paints a vivid portrait of a close-knit community where social bonds and codes of conduct are deeply ingrained. The characters, particularly the central figures of Charlie, played by Harvey Keitel, and Johnny Boy, portrayed by Robert De Niro, grapple with their roles within this social fabric. Their personal struggles mirror the broader challenges faced by the working-class youth of the era.

One of the central social themes of “Mean Streets” is the clash between personal desires and societal expectations. Charlie, a devout Catholic, aspires to find a balance between his moral values and the criminal activities he’s entangled in. This inner conflict reflects the broader tension within the generation, as traditional values often conflicted with the countercultural and rebellious movements of the 1970s.

The film also touches upon the theme of identity and self-discovery. The characters in “Mean Streets” are searching for a sense of self, trying to define their place in a rapidly changing society. Their journey is a microcosm of the larger social transformation occurring in the United States during the post-Vietnam War era.

Another noteworthy social aspect explored in the film is the concept of masculinity. The characters’ struggles with authority, power, and machismo shed light on the societal expectations and stereotypes of masculinity in an environment where toughness and aggression are highly valued.

“Mean Streets” is notable for its unfiltered and authentic portrayal of urban life, tackling issues such as crime, loyalty, family, and the search for personal identity. Scorsese’s use of vibrant music, kinetic cinematography, and a richly detailed setting creates a visceral experience that immerses the viewer in the streets of Little Italy.

“Mean Streets” is not just a film; it’s a snapshot of a time and place that captures the complex social themes and tensions of the 1970s. Its exploration of the clash between tradition and rebellion, personal and societal expectations, and the quest for identity within the microcosm of Little Italy continues to resonate with audiences and remains a landmark in American cinema for its powerful social commentary.

Picture Credits

Culture Vulture Image by Kollectiv Future with permission.
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
By Sony Pictures Releasing – http://www.impawards.com/2019/beautiful_day_in_the_neighborhood.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61900962
Under The Skin
By A24 Films – IMP Awards, Kellerhouse, Inc., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=42597010
Coco
By http://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/886977-new-coco-poster-celebrates-the-day-of-the-dead-pixar-style#/slide/1, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=47613889
Eyes Of Laura Mars
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18528867
Night Of The Demon
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8913138
Mean Streets
By May be found at the following website: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070379/mediaindex?page=3&ref_=ttmi_mi_sm, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63535900

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Film Review: Silence (2016)

April 12, 2023 at 11:18 am · Filed under Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

★★★★★

Before the release of Silence in 2016, Martin Scorsese already had form when it came to questions of God and Religion. 1988’s The Last Temptation of Christ had caused huge controversy when it was first released, and the 1997 movie Kundun, based on the life of the current Dali Lama, makes for a loose ‘spiritual’ trilogy.

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Indeed, pre-production for Silence began only two years after the release of Last Temptation, shortly after Scorsese had first read Shusako Endo’s original 1966 novel, upon which the film was based. It would take almost a quarter of a century, substantial re-writes, years in ‘production hell,’ court actions and threatened court actions, before the film finally went into production proper. Scorsese, who was himself raised a Roman Catholic and still acknowledges the influence of Catholicism on his work, has described Silence as ‘Passion Project’ and a film that ‘had to be made,’ and has spoken of it in terms of it being a part of his own spiritual quest, a quest that he believes naturally grows more urgent as we humans reach the latter part of our natural life-cycle.

Last Temptation had ben attacked as blasphemous by many Christians, largely by the type of fundamentalists who had also denounced Monty Python’s The Life of Brian from 1979 in a similar manner. The line of attack on Last Temptation rested mostly on the scene towards the end of the film where Jesus is depicted as having a sexual relationship with Mary Magdalene. In fact, this scene forms part of a form of dream sequence, where Jesus on the cross, having chosen the path of self-sacrifice on behalf of humanity as a whole, imagines what it could have been like had he chosen to deny his Divinity and live out his life as a normal man, a man who marries, produces and raises a family. I don’t pretend any great expertise in the field of Theology, but from the limited understanding I do have, it would seem to me that the clash between the human and divine aspects of the figure of Jesus, between Jesus the man and Jesus the Christ, a clash that arguably also takes place within all of us, would seem to be pretty central to the Christian message, and thus ripe for artistic exploration. In addition, the righteous, angry, proto-socialist firebrand Jesus who expels the money changers from the Temple in Last Temptation is a Jesus who is closest to how I like to think the actual Jesus would have been.

Silence is not a film that, as far as I’m aware, has given any grounds for attack on the blasphemy front, and seems on the whole to have been well received amongst Christians.

It is worth mentioning here though a little of my own history with the film, and with Christianity itself. I have never been a believing Christian, but have at times defined myself as ‘Culturally Christian’, which has in turn led to sporadic periods of fairly regular church attendance. The release of Silence in the UK happened to coincide with one of these periods, and it was through the vicar at my local Anglican (Anglo-Catholic to be precise) church that I first heard of the film. It was raised when our regular Thursday night discussion group turned towards matters of the treatment of Christianity in modern literature, film and television. This vicar happened to have read Endo’s novel, and to have recently seen the film. His criticism of the latter was that although the movie was relatively faithful to the novel (the very last scene was an entirely cinematic, auteur decision, I would later learn), he felt it was unnecessary to show so graphically the gory torture and violence suffered by the Japanese Christians, brutality that is apparently only implied in the novel. Inevitably, the discussion then turned to Mel Gibson’s ultra-blood-fest, The Passion of Christ, a film that I believe gets an unnecessarily bad press, and is required Easter viewing, though this is not the place to discuss this.

Silence is indeed a very violent film, certainly not for the feint of heart or weak of stomach. Having not read the novel, I’m not in a position to compare the two, but having watched the film on the big screen shortly after that Thursday night discussion, and twice more on the small screen since, I believe that the subject matter entirely justifies the degree of violence depicted. In the hands of a great filmmaker, and Scorsese is right up there with Kubrick, Hitchcock, Chaplain, Ozu and Eisenstein amongst the greatest filmmakers of all time, the cinematic form need not be entirely devoid of subtlety and implication. But is a visual medium in a way that literature simply is not.   

I won’t give away too many spoilers in this review. Silence is a film that reached a relatively small audience, and is well worth seeing without knowing too much about it. But the central story, loosely based on real-life events and characters, concerns two seventeenth century Portuguese Jesuit priests, Sebastiao Rodriguez and Francisco Garupe, played by Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver respectfully., who set off for Japan from the then Portuguese colony of Macao (now in China) in order to discover the truth concerning their former mentor Cristovao Ferreira, played by Liam Neeson, after word has reached them that Ferreira has committed apostacy, gone native, and has taken a Japanese wife. Ferreira is a legendary figure within the Jesuit order at this point, known for his devotion to spreading the Word to the Heathen Japanese, and the idea that he has renounced his Faith and is living in this way is simply unthinkable to the young priests.

Without going too deeply into Japanese history, which is there for those who wish to discover it, the action takes place in the early days of the ‘Edo-Era’ period, when Christianity was being brutally suppressed, creating what are today known as the ‘Hidden Christians’, groups of Japanese believers forced to practice their Faith, in as much as this is possible at all, in secret. This had followed a relatively brief period under the previous ‘Tokugawa Shogunate’ when a relatively relaxed attitude had existed towards this new spiritual import, making open missionary work possible, work that had proven successful in creating a small but growing and apparently devout Japanese Christian community.   

The film thus centres upon Rodriguez and Garupe’s journey to Japan from Macou through rough seas, assisted by the untrustworthy but complex figure of Kichijiro, played by Yosuke Kubozuka, a Japanese fisherman and Christian, whose own spiritual journey sees him swing wildly between deep faith and betrayal, and who at this point is seeking redemption after abandoning his religion in order to save his own life whilst members of his own family were put to death for their belief. After their arrival in Japan, we follow Rodriguez and Garupe as they search for Ferreira and assist the beleaguered, desperate, underground Japanese community, until they finally do discover the whereabouts and truth concerning their former teacher and his current life in Japan.

The film is indeed very violent. The punishments for those Japanese, and foreign, Christians who refuse to renounce their faith include being burnt alive, being beheaded, and being tied to raised wooden posts in the blazing sun without food or water, until they are eventually enveloped and drowned by incoming tides. After this latter prolonged and terrifying death, they are then cremated, and thus denied the full bodily burial demanded by their religion.

The movie spares nothing in showing the horrors that face those who refuse to renounce Christ, an act which is made visual in the film by the demand that his followers literally trample on an image of Jesus, are subjected to.

Silence explores themes such as Faith, Martyrdom, whether it is permissible to demand the martyrdom of others, the proselyting nature of Christianity, and also the possibility of what might be called Spiritual Imperialism.

It is this last point that I found most interesting in the film, and it is one explored powerfully through encounters between the Jesuit priests and the fascinating figure of The Inquisitor, played by Tadonobo Asano. This character, the most interesting in the entire film to me, combines supreme cruelty with righteous Japanese Nationalism and a keen wisdom and intellect. Through his words we see the possibility of doubt being sown in the minds of the devout priests, and also perhaps in the minds of those Christian viewers who may otherwise have been inclined to see the conflict in the movie as a simple one of ‘Good’ versus ‘Evil’. At one point, the Inquisitor says simply ‘Japan has its own religions. But you failed to notice this.’

This is of course true. Japan at this time already had its own longstanding spiritual traditions in the form of its national, pagan religion of Shinto, and of a form of Buddhism that had begun as an offshoot of another pagan religion, that of Hinduism in India, travelled to China where it’s encounter with Taoism produced Ch’an Buddhism, and then on to Japan where it became what we today know as Zen.

Without for a moment excusing the extremities of torture that Japanese Christians were subjected to, or of diminishing the heroism of all who have been, and in many places still are, prepared to sacrifice and suffer for their faith, the question of whether or not western Christians had/have a right to allow the implantation of their own belief system into other cultures to go unchallenged is certainly one worth thinking about. Marxist historians have been amongst those who have pointed out that in the development of Western Imperialism, the appearance of the gunboats was often proceeded by the appearance of the missionaries.

At one point, one of the Jesuit priests points to the growth of Christianity in Japan in the years before its repression, as a means of showing that many Japanese were prepared to freely choose this religion over their own indigenous traditions. Again, the Inquisitor casts doubt, this time on what he thinks the Japanese really understand by the teachings they have given, suggesting, for instance that when the priests talk of ‘the Son’, their Japanese congregation interpret this as ‘the Sun,’ the Sun of course being of such importance in Japanese history and culture that the name of the country literally means ‘Land of the Rising Sun.’ I’m not sure how well this suggestion works linguistically, given that we are dealing with issues of translation from Japanese to Portuguese to English, but this did make me think about how well religious ideas have and do translate from one culture to another.

Christianity itself of course emerged from Judaism in the Middle East a little over two thousand years ago, reaching Europe through the power of the Roman Empire a couple of centuries after that. Greater minds than mine have wrestled with the problem of trying to navigate as closely as possible backwards towards the original teachings of the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth, but there can be no doubt at all that these teachings were changed by their encounter with western thought, most obviously of its encounter with the giants of Greek philosophy who were retrospectively claimed by and merged with the Christian tradition, despite their own pagan origins.

I myself, as well my periodic periods of ‘Cultural Christianity,’ attend a Zen Buddhist group here in Liverpool, and have done so on and off since first moving here twenty years ago. I’m in no doubt that Zen ‘Just Sitting’ meditation has had very positive benefits in my own life, but I’m also under no illusion that it has much to do with Zen as it is taught and practiced in Japan, either today or many centuries ago.

It is also perhaps worth mentioning that, even in the modern age, when Christianity can flow freely towards Japan, unhindered since at least the end of the Second World War and the final defeat of the Japanese Imperial tradition, and assisted by the most modern means of mass communication, and also no doubt with many billions of dollars spent on its propagation, only around 1% of modern Japanese citizens identify themselves as Christians. Shinto and Zen still reign in the hearts and minds of the Japanese people, and have proved to be remarkably adaptable, despite the massive changes Japanese society has undergone in recent decades.

Anyway, a fairly lengthy digression, but these were the main thoughts that the film brought out in me. Others may see different themes to these, themes I have missed, or indeed may see the story as simply a ‘Heroes Quest’ coupled with the enduring power of the Christian Faith and the Christian message. This is entirely legitimate also.

In closing, I’ll say simply that Silence is a powerful, thought-provoking film that looks great, is superbly acted by all the principal players, and has a great musical score by Kim Allen Kluge. It was a flop at the Box Office, and will no doubt long, and perhaps forever, remain one of Martin Scorsese’s lesser known works. That said, it is a work well worth seeking out.

I should mention that, prior to Scorsese’s version, there had already been a 1971 movie adaptation of Endo’s novel, though I have yet to see this.

Reviewed by Anthony C Green

Picture credit

The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor, Paramount Pictures., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52352338

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A Modern Morality Tale? The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

January 26, 2014 at 3:28 pm · Filed under Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

A Modern Morality Tale? The Wolf of Wall Street 

hr_The_Wolf_of_Wall_Street_14WITH THE last few years seeing the activities of the world’s financial system coming under scrutiny as perhaps never before, this film chronicling the real-life rise and fall of rogue stockbroker Jordan Belfort, (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), is indeed timely.

The film opens with a contrast between a slick advert for Belfort’s firm, Stratton Oakmont, depicting it as a sound, respectable company and then cuts to a typical anarchic scene from the office, in this case throwing dwarves at a sort of dartboard. Then we are taken back to Belfort’s arrival as a young trainee to Wall Street just before Black Monday in 1987 which was the event that was to temporarily halt his career. While the hunger to make money that was eventually to drive him into criminal activity appears to be there from the start, the young Belfort seems genuinely naïve and it takes a lunch with his boss Mark Hanna, (Matthew McConaughey), at which he is told that the firm is basically there to make money for itself and not necessarily for its clients, to open his eyes to some of the realities of the world he is now working in. He is also told of the part that drugs play in keeping many traders going. Not long after getting his broker’s licence the aforementioned crash of Black Monday occurs and this leaves Belfort out of a job as his employers go out of business.

This period of unemployment proves to be a turning point for Belfort. One day while looking through the jobs section of the newspaper he is seriously considering a change of direction but his wife Teresa, (Cristin Milioti), encourages him to pursue his desire to be a stockbroker. She spots a small ad looking for dealers and he goes along to the firm he has never heard of to apply for a job. What Belfort finds when he gets there is most likely what we would call a “boiler room”. In a shabby office staffed by equally shabby employees, Belfort is introduced to the murky world of trading in penny stocks where clients get the hard-sell over the ‘phone and encouraged to buy shares in small companies that are not quoted on the main market. Again, Belfort appears to be slightly naïve when he asks if clients can actually profit from such investments but he is quickly won over when he learns of the fifty percent commission that can be earned by selling these shares. He rapidly becomes a star employee, standing out from the others both in his attire, (he favours a smart suit of the type he wore while working on Wall Street), and in his success in selling the penny shares to small investors. A chance meeting with his neighbour Donnie Azoff, (Jonah Hill), turns out to be fateful. Having asked Belfort how much he earns, Azoff immediately leaves his respectable but not very well paid job and goes to work with Belfort. Belfort decides to start his own firm and he and his new right-hand man Azoff set up shop in a vacant car repair garage with a motley crew of local chancers as their sales staff.

At first Belfort and his team follow the same pattern as the firm he has just left: selling small, illiquid and risky shares to small investors with not a lot of money. Then he has a stroke of inspiration that will lead him to great riches but ultimately results in his downfall. Instead of targeting small investors, they will sell blue chip stocks to rich clients and then when they have been hooked they will be sold the riskier investments. Stratton Oakmont is born.

There then begins a rollercoaster ride of huge amounts of money being made but also spent and a ride that will ultimately land Jordan Belfort in prison. Despite being nicknamed “Mad Max” owing to his explosive temper it is Belfort’s accountant father, (Rob Reiner), who provides what seems to be the lone voice of reason in his circle. Brought in to keep an eye on the finances of the company, Max queries items such $26,000 being spent on entertaining clients, warns Belfort junior that things will eventually catch up with him and later in the film as the authorities close in he advises his son to make a deal with those pursuing him.

In this story success leads to excess. In scenes that are widely regarded as controversial and are definitely not for the easily offended, Belfort and his associates indulge in orgies of drug taking and cavorting with prostitutes. The firm seems at times to be running on drugs and in one hilarious scene a heavily intoxicated Donnie comes up with the idea for what will become their biggest deal. Does the film glamorise such behaviour? The viewer is left to judge for themselves but it is pretty obvious that the principal characters’ drug use impairs their judgement and Belfort’s extra marital activities definitely contribute to the breakdown of his two marriages.

As Stratton Oakmont grows bigger and bigger on the back of its shady dealings it draws the attention of the forces of law and order. The Securities and Exchange Commission is treated with contempt with its investigators placed in an office with the air conditioning set to chill the room. The firm also attracts the attention of the dogged FBI Agent Patrick Denham, (Kyle Chandler), and in a tense scene aboard Belfort’s yacht we see him turn from suave, sophisticated businessman to an angry and rattled individual as Denham makes it clear his intention to bring him down.

Can Belfort’s story act as a modern day morality tale? There are certain points in the story when Belfort could have been content with what he had instead of pushing for more. Had he done so, he may have remained a fairly wealthy individual and stayed out of jail. It is difficult to say whether money was the sole motivating factor behind some of his bad decisions as the adulation of others combined with his copious consumption of drugs clearly affected his judgement. That said, the viewer is left with the distinct impression that the pursuit of ever greater wealth and the trappings of luxury that go with it and the scant regard for the law displayed by Belfort and his associates were the seeds of their downfall.

 

The Wolf of Wall Street bears the hallmarks of previous Martin Scorsese epics such as the use of the main character as narrator and a life of excess played out to a soundtrack of hits from the era portrayed. Leonardo DiCaprio richly deserves his Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Jordan Belfort and the supporting cast including Shea Whigham as his yacht captain and Joanna Lumley as his second wife’s English aunt who is roped into helping Belfort hide his ill-gotten gains in Switzerland are all superb. It is darkly comic and the viewer will chuckle at the various misadventures that the characters become involved in including a desperate drive home by a badly drugged-up Belfort in order to prevent an equally stoned Donnie giving the game away in a ‘phone call to their dodgy Swiss banker that the FBI could be monitoring.

At a minute under three hours this is a long film but it does hold the attention. Its 18 certificate clearly indicates that it is not family viewing and some people will find the scenes of indulgence in drugs and sex a bit on the strong side. Overall The Wolf of Wall Street is an expertly crafted and entertaining film that is well worth going to see.

Reviewed by Andrew Hunter

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