Film critic Jesse Hawthorne Ficks has unveiled his top picks for the year, presenting them in a unique double-feature format. From gripping romances to thought-provoking documentaries, Ficks highlights films that challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives. Among his selections are works by renowned directors like Catherine Breillat, Rose Glass, Annie Baker, and Hong Sang-soo. Each film pairing offers contrasting yet complementary narratives, showcasing the diversity and depth of contemporary cinema. Ficks also includes an unexpected music video by Sade, which resonates deeply with themes of personal growth and understanding. This curated list invites viewers to explore lesser-known gems alongside mainstream hits.
Catherine Breillat's latest film, "The Last Summer," stands out as a powerful romantic melodrama that masterfully tackles uncomfortable subjects. At 76 years old, Breillat continues to captivate audiences with her nuanced storytelling. Her film is paired with Rose Glass’s "Love Lies Bleeding," an erotically charged romance that delves into the complexities of love and ambition. The film features Kristen Stewart and Katy O'Brien in standout performances, with Ed Harris adding a chilling presence as Stewart's overbearing father. Both films explore intense emotional landscapes, inviting viewers to reflect on the darker sides of passion and desire.
Annie Baker’s "Janet Planet" provides a poignant look at progressive parenting in the early 1990s, while Zelda Williams' directorial debut, "Lisa Frankenstein," offers a gothic take on teenage rebellion. Julianne Nicholson shines in "Janet Planet," portraying a free-spirited character caught in a cycle of disastrous relationships. Meanwhile, "Lisa Frankenstein" showcases Williams' ability to blend whimsical elements with deeper psychological themes, thanks to Diablo Cody's script. These films highlight the struggles of self-discovery and societal expectations, offering rich character studies that resonate long after the credits roll.
Hong Sang-soo’s "A Traveller’s Needs" and "By the Stream" exemplify the director's signature style of exploring human connections through minimalist storytelling. Isabelle Huppert stars in "A Traveller’s Needs" as a nomadic Frenchwoman who intersects with various lives in Seoul, while "By the Stream" follows a theater director thrust into an academic role. Both films are marked by their subtle humor and experimental editing, providing a satirical yet heartfelt commentary on modern life. Hong's work remains both accessible and profound, inviting viewers to ponder the intricacies of human behavior.
The final segment of Ficks' selections includes Payal Kapadia’s "All We Imagine as Light," a romantic road trip that explores the lives of two nurses in Mumbai, and Shuchi Talati’s "Girls Will Be Girls," a coming-of-age story set in a Himalayan boarding school. Kapadia’s film captures the immediacy of everyday moments with exquisite pacing, leading to a mesmerizing conclusion. Talati’s work, on the other hand, shifts focus from the young protagonist to her mother, revealing the unfulfilled desires of previous generations. Together, these films underscore the universal quest for identity and belonging, transcending cultural boundaries.
Jesse Hawthorne Ficks’ curated list of films not only celebrates cinematic excellence but also encourages viewers to seek out hidden treasures. Through his thoughtful pairings, he invites us to engage with stories that challenge our perceptions and expand our understanding of the world. Whether through romance, satire, or documentary, these films offer a rich tapestry of experiences that continue to resonate long after viewing. Ficks’ selections serve as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to provoke, inspire, and connect.