WEEK 1: "VIDEO KILLED THE RADIO STAR"
The Buggles hit single bemoaned the unstoppable wave of technological reform in the 80's, and then ironically became the first music video aired on MTV. In honor of the legendary pop-culture contradiction, the first five movies this week all deal with themes regarding technology. From stories that grapple with the birth of A.I. to advancements in motion-capture technology that opened up new creative avenues for filmmaking, each of these films is in some way in conversation with technology and the way humans engage with it.
CLASSIC:
“The Matrix” (1999)
Written by Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski
Directed by Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski
Genre: Action, Science-Fiction
What is real? Are we real, or is it just a simulation? How would be able to tell either way? “The Matrix” tackles these questions by blending philosophy, kung-fu, and special-effects wizardry in equal measure. Debuting just over twenty years ago, it’s impossible to keep track of just how much of this movie has been borrowed or copied by other, less exciting movies, but that’s only helped solidify its status as a seminal entry in the canon of action cinema.
NEW CLASSIC:
“Ex-Machina” (2015)
Written by Alex Garland
Directed by Alex Garland
Genre: Science-Fiction, Thriller
A haunting, modern-day fable about a low-level programmer named Caleb, who’s invited to the secret compound of his company’s eccentric, billionaire boss to meet Ava, the world’s first A.I. Caleb has a series of conversations with Ava to Turing test her (meaning determine whether she comes across like a regular human), but their conversations end up revealing a darker, more insidious situation than either of them expected. Garland’s feature-length debut explores themes of consciousness, gender, and sexuality with unforgettable nerve.
DEEP CUT:
“The Lobster” (2015)
Written by Yorgos Lathimos and Efthymis Filippou Directed by Yorgos Lathimos Genre: Drama, Absurdist, Dystopian
In a dystopic future where being in a relationship is legally required, single people are sent to a special hotel where they’re required to find a new partner, or else be turned into an animal. This movie’s world is fantastical and yet disturbingly real, every detail pervaded by the terror of loneliness. The point, director Yorgos Lathimos says, is how easily we sabotage our own happiness, and how afraid we are to call attention to it. Much like ourselves, this movie works hard to keep you at arm’s length, but rewards those who fight to get closer.
OUT THERE:
“Holy Hell” (2016)
Directed by William Francesco Allen Genre: Documentary
William Francesco Allen’s film is an equally shocking and moving glimpse into life inside a personality cult, comprised from extensive footage he shot over twenty years as the cult’s official videographer. The footage, narrated by former cult members, paints a stunning portrait of their leader, and the horrifying abuse he inflicted upon his followers. Thankfully, the denouement contains a beautiful reveal: the bond Allen forged with his makeshift family, and how their shared trauma has only solidified their togetherness.
KELLY’S PICK:
“The Adventures of Tintin” (2011)
Written by Joe Cornish, Steven Moffat, Edgar Wright
Directed by Steven Spielberg
Genre: Adventure, Action
What happens when you combine the finest genre storytellers in England with Steven Spielberg, one of the greatest directors in history? Exactly what you’d expect: a pitch-perfect adventure yarn replete with exotic destinations, spunky protagonists, pirates, buried treasure, and a lovable canine companion. Shot entirely on a soundstage with motion-capture technology, Spielberg proves his magic touch isn’t limited by any particular medium, and that his panache with special-effects remains unrivaled.
BONUS:
“Minority Report” (2002)
Written by Scott Frank, Jon Cohen Directed by Steven Spielberg Genre: Dystopic, Science-Fiction, Action
This week’s extra film (for those inclined) is a second-helping of Spielberg, albeit in a slightly different mode. “Minority Report” isn’t the best script Spielberg’s worked with, but the movie's themes of technology, surveillance, and criminal justice are uncomfortably, and unfortunately, prescient when juxtaposed with today’s world. Essential only for Spielberg fans, but worth watching for anyone looking for a throwback sci-fi story with a lot to say.
BONUS “COMMUNITY” EPISODE:
“Environmental Science” (Season 1, Episode 10)
“Community,” one of the best shows in modern TV history, is finally on Netflix for everyone to binge. To celebrate, these weekly lists will include episodes from the show’s six-season run that highlight the extraordinary highs this little sitcom was able to hit. First up: “Environmental Science,” an episode almost mid-way through its first season, and an excellent demonstration of just what “Community” is. All the hallmarks of the show are here: lots of witty banter, a big, gooey heart on its sleeve, and a world steeped in meta-awareness. If there’s one episode to watch to gauge whether it would be something you’re into, this is the one to check out.