Beauty in Film

There is something about film that is peculiar to what many think of as a storytelling medium. Film doesn't have to tell a story. It usually does, of course. And even when it doesn't, a viewer can make it mean anything they can imagine. Film is, above all, an art. I wont say that all films rise to the challenge of being art, but in my opinion, neither do all paintings that are billed as art, so...

Anyway, there are some films that it doesn't matter if there's a story. They might even tell fantastic stories but I could sort of care less because these films are truly art. They are visually stunning and I would gladly watch them over and over just to absorb the nuanced use of color, lighting, framing, costuming, make-up, and special effects that create such beautiful works. If you haven't seen these films, jump on that. Right now. Go on. Go put them up at the top of the queue, or break out your Blockbuster card.

1. Passion of the Christ
Yes, it is bloody. But it is gorgeous. There are, like, less than 25 spoken lines the whole film, in a language no one truly knows how to speak, and no one cares. Because the words aren't important. This story is so visually intriguing that it blows me away. The lighting when Judas kisses Christ is just... beyond anything incredible. If you are religious or easily affected by death scenes, bring tissues.

2. 300
Another bloody film. Xerxes is the crowning jewel of this film. They took a man, an enemy of the protagonists, and make him into a androgynous, attractive god. His voice alone makes this film worth watching.

3. Apocolypto
Another Gibson work. I'll say, even if he is a crazed anti-semite, he knows how to frame a shot.

4. 10,000 B.C.
This is a fun one, because it is actually a rather terrible film story and acting-wise. But the visuals are quite stunning, so if you can get past the crazy plot, I recommend it. There are some long shots that are absolutely fantastic.

That's all for today. Ciao!