'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere' is a contemplative character study directed by Scott Cooper, focusing on a transformative period in Bruce Springsteen's life as he creates the 'Nebraska' album, with Jeremy Allen White embodying Springsteen's persona, emphasizing the creative process over big moments, though it occasionally falls into familiar biopic tropes.
The Lowdown is a character-driven noir series featuring Ethan Hawke as Lee Raybon, a quirky Tulsa-based truthseeker, blending regional specificity with a witty, textured world-building that explores themes of power, privilege, and resistance, all filtered through Harjo's distinct creative vision.
Filmmakers are drawn to adapting Patricia Highsmith's character Tom Ripley, a con artist with a sketchy background, as he serves as a blank slate to explore the mores and concerns of different eras. Despite his lack of traditional hero qualities, including charm and clear goals, filmmakers have attempted to portray him in various angles, from a criminal to a sociopath, resulting in five films and a new Netflix series starring different actors.
In the latest episode of The Walking Dead, "The Ones Who Live," the focus is on Rick and Michonne's relationship as Rick struggles with the idea of being rescued and returning to his family. However, the episode takes Rick's broken state too far, with his justifications for not leaving feeling nonsensical and uncomfortable to watch. Despite some attempts to convince him to leave, it's unclear if Rick is fully on board by the end of the episode, leaving the viewer feeling as trapped as Rick. The episode presents a bleak look at Rick's psyche, and the return of the character feels uncertain.
Kōji Yakusho delivers a masterful performance in Wim Wenders' "Perfect Days," portraying the life of a Japanese toilet cleaner with depth and nuance, elevating everyday routines into profound moments. The film challenges preconceptions and offers a poignant portrayal of an "invisible" member of society. Yakusho's portrayal of the character's internal struggles and moments of joy is described as a sublime and emotionally resonant experience, culminating in a climactic shot that is hailed as one of the most astounding in recent cinema.
"Showing Up," the latest collaboration between director Kelly Reichardt and star Michelle Williams, explores the toil and trouble of creating art with grace and sly wit. The film follows Lizzy, a sculptor struggling to finish her work for an upcoming show while dealing with various obstacles, including a broken water heater, a wounded pigeon, and a mentally unstable brother. Reichardt and Williams are an ideal match, crafting emotionally messy characters with humanity and depth. "Showing Up" is a deceptively casual and naturally wonderful work of art.