Brokeback Mountain (2005)

8/10

"Brokeback Mountain", I easily give it an A-/B+ on my movie rating scale. It was hard to push back the prejudice and expectations due to the loud criticism it received by media.

But let us push others' impressions aside and look why "Brokeback Mountain" is worth seen. First of, it is beautifully shot. The views of the nature are picturesque and memorable. Camera work is thrilling, it reinforces the magnificent landscape and convinces the viewer as if I am a part of the scene.

Second, the characters are amazing in all aspects - from development to performance. The cast of the "Brokeback Mountain" is beyond expectations. Each character is distinct and consistent: every move, every gesture, every facial expression - everything is real.

Third, the drama is powerful and nostalgic. The movie is not a Hollywood "happily ever after" story. It is truthful in the same way the characters are truthful to their believes. It is strange to see the ending, and want a better one.

"Brokeback Mountain" is one of its kind. Love drama is the essence of this film. Like or not, it brings us the rough truth and just one way of thinking.

Mrs. Henderson Presents (2005)

7/10

"Mrs. Henderson Presents" is relaxing and fun to watch. The plot is plain and characters are bold. There are no twists or secrets, however there is an inspiring story about the birth of London'’s Windmill Theater. This movie is definitely fun to watch over and over if you got nothing better to do.

Andrei Rublev (1969)

?/10

3 hours of still grey camera work, zero transitions, strange characters and monotonous Russian mutter is nearly impossible to enjoy on a Sat late night. The plot as we think of it, is absent. Instead, there is Rublev's life in its finest detail with all the surroundings, and a panoramic recording of XV century Russia. While the information presented might be of historical interest, Tarkovsky'’s style is overwhelming with complexity and depression.

100/100 rating as assigned on Rotten Tomatoes is to be questioned. I accept the respect of critics towards Tarkovsky, and I enjoyed his "Solaris" before. However, "Andrei Rublev" is truly "a wrenching testament" that has to be watched and understood ... and both are VERY difficult to do in this case.