Before computers got cheap, movies had to use physical effects. Filmmakers had to think about how their movies would look before filming was over. Completely changing the aesthetic with a new green-screen background was not possible. Do-overs were known as re-shoots, and people physically built sets that reinforced the themes of the film. One movie used every one of these tricks while lightly stepping into the CGI era: 1997’s Batman & Robin.
Alone in the Wilderness is the movie of our time. Even though it was filmed and largely written in 1968, and edited in 2003, it speaks to the isolation of the coronavirus era. I want nothing more than to get the fuck out of my town, where merely walking down the sidewalk puts me in danger from unmasked assholes. I’m leaving soon, but not soon enough.
Dick Proenneke was able to leave.
Gay Purr-ee (1962) is painterly and often spellbinding.
It’s been forgotten, but it brings together tons of excellent ideas. Chuck Jones (Looney Tunes) co-wrote it, and Judy Garland stars. The plot is basic and a bit illogical, but the music and definitely the visuals make up for it.
Gay Purr-ee was created by United Productions of America. Though best-known for Mr. Magoo, they have many short masterpieces that most people have never heard of.
First, a review. Once you decide to watch the movie, leave this blog and come back when you’ve seen it.
Tim’s Vermeer is better the less you know about it. In an inverted 20-questions format, here you go. It’s a documentary. It’s about art. It’s also about forgery and obsession. There’s a money shot early on which proves the concept and makes you wonder if the bigger project is possible.