With my city back on a stay-at-home order, I’ve been watching even more movies than routine. Continuing to do spreads in my film journal as I go, which is one of my favorite parts of watching movies because it allows me to research the film’s soundtrack, cast, awards, director, etc.
1) Call Me by Your Name:
I classify this as one of the most beautiful pieces of cinema I’ve ever watched. First off, the scenery is beautiful, especially the trip Elio and Oliver took together, especially the scene as they were running up the hill. The house in which they live in Lambordi, Italy is beautiful too, further proving the aesthetic of the movie. The love portrayed between Elio, Timothée Chalamet, and Oliver, Armie Hamor, over the course of the summer they spend together was so strong and heartwrenching. The ending left me in tears, but overall I was incredibly moved by the wise words spoken throughout the film and the mesmeric scenes that screamed coming of age.
2) Perks of Being a Wallflower:
A coming of age romance-drama that beautifully demonstrates teenagers and the struggles that circulate with growing up. This film shows raw and real emotions and conflicts as socially awkward teenager Charlie (Logan Lerman) gains confidence from new friends Sam (Emma Watson) and her stepbrother Patrick (Ezra Miller). By the end of the film, I was left with inspiring thoughts and emotions and a strong urge to recreate the tunnel scene. Also, the soundtrack was incredible! You can watch Perks on Netflix or Amazon Prime.
3) 10 Things I Hate About You:
10 Things I Hate About You is what I consider to be my comfort film, the film you watch that automatically makes you smile no matter how many times you rewatch it. This movie follows the main character, Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles), who goes from smart, outspoken, doesn’t need a boy-girl to falling in love with notorious bad boy Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger). While also following her polar opposite sister, Bianca (Larisa Oleynik), who can’t wait for a boyfriend and to attend parties, but can only do so if Kat does. This film falls under the category of a feel-good romantic comedy, but not in a cheesy way. From the classic paintball scene and iconic lines such as “But mostly, I hate the way I don’t hate you, not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all” this movie never fails to make anyone smile. You can watch 10 Things I Hate About You on Disney Plus and Amazon Prime.
4) Ferris Bullers Day Off:
Ferris Bullers Day Off is another comfort movie of mine, it’s one of my favorites, and an all-time classic, as well. I’ve rewatched it 100s of times and will gladly rewatch it again. This John Huges film follows Ferris Buller ( Matthew Boderick) on one of his notorious sick days, this one he intends to make the most of it before he graduates. He bails out his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara), on their day in Chicago, A parade, Cubs Game, Fancy Lunch, and avoiding their principal who is hell-bent on catching Ferris in a lie. This movie is hilarious, cute, inspiring, and overall so fun, with iconic scenes, quotes, and soundtrack. You can watch now on Amazon Prime.
5) Once Upon a Time in Hollywood:
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a different take on the Manson Family murders especially that of Sharron Tate (Margo Robbie). The movie follows actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) who is struggling to find another important role in Hollywood he no longer recognizes after gaining wealth and fame in the ’50s. He and his best friend, stunt man Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) spend most of their time drinking together. They just happen to live next to Roman Polanski and Sharron Tate, however, this movie ends in a different fate for them. Overall an amazingly creative and humorous take on the horrific Manson Family Murders. The plot was entertaining, the cast is incredible, and the wardrobe and soundtrack were extraordinary. You can view this movie on Hulu and Amazon Prime.
6) The King of Staten Island:
I’m a huge Pete Davidson Fan, I love his stand-up and skits on Saturday Night Live, so this movie was a great insight into his personal life. The King of Staten Island is a semi-autobiographical comedy-drama about Pete Davidson. Following growing up in Staten Island, the loss of his father, a firefighter, in 9/11, and his entrance into the world of comedy. This movie is hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time, a great story overall. You can watch King of Staten Island on Amazon Prime now.
7) Almost Famous:
This music-based coming of age drama takes place in 1973 when 15-year-old William (Patrick Fugit) a music fan whose love for music lands him a freelance writing assignment for Rolling Stone Magazine to interview rising band Stillwater. He takes off on tour with the band, continuing writing for Rolling Stone, meeting band “groupie” Penny Lane (Kate Hudson) along the way. I loved the plot of this movie it was incredibly unique, the cast, fashionable fits, and the music were perfect. I highly recommend watching it, available on Amazon Prime.