Wylie Writes’ 2018 Mid-Year Report
We’re halfway through the year, which means it’s time for Wylie Writes’ recap of the best and the worst films of 2018. Don’t forget to click the coloured titles to read a more detailed write-up about the film!
Wylie Writes
All Summers End
All Summers End may not know where it wants to begin, but it’s a memorable journey through repentance and youthful maturity.
Let the Sunshine In
Movies about people looking for true love tend to be treated with a lighter attitude. Mostly because audiences respond more efficiently to stories that they can relate to that don’t portray their problems as a wet towel. To my recollection, Let the Sunshine In is the first film – in some time, at least – to put real weight behind this personal mission of romance. Although the film provides relatable results for some viewers, the…
First Reformed
In First Reformed, writer/director Paul Schrader tells a story about characters living in excruciating personal turmoil. He then gradually develops his movie to be more visceral, so the audience can experience similar pain. You would think keeping movie goers in a state of compelling discomfort would be a tricky balancing act for Schrader, but he succeeds with ease; almost as if this area of emotional discomfort is a particular wheelhouse for the Taxi Driver screenwriter.
Another Soul
Another Soul will remind viewers of other movies. It’s an echo of supernatural horror stories told before featuring demons, possessions, conflicted parents, and exorcisms. But, Another Soul is also a shoestring effort working with limited resources that no one would truly want to slam because the cast and crew are simply “doing their best”. This, perhaps, could’ve acted as an excuse to criticize Paul Chau’s film on a curve, but I’m afraid the Paranormal Activity franchise has…
The Gospel According to André
Talk about a documentary that really dives into its subject! The Gospel According to André, a slick flick from documentarian Kate Novack, embodies the enthusiasm of fashion editor André Leon Talley.
Five Seasons: The Gardens of Piet Oudolf
By: Jessica Goddard Charming and endlessly sensitive, Thomas Piper’s Five Seasons: The Gardens of Piet Oudolf presents an underacknowledged art form with patience, intrigue, and warmth.
Birthmarked
By: Nick van Dinther Birthmarked isn’t a bad movie, but it still feels like a missed opportunity.
Fishbowl California
Your enjoyment for Michael A. MacRae’s indie Fishbowl California will vary on your tolerance towards its lead characters.
Deadpool 2
Deadpool 2 plays within the same flashback narrative and irreverent sense of humour that made its R-rated predecessor a hit. The new changes are behind the camera, with director David Leitch (John Wick, Atomic Blonde) picking up where Tim Miller left off.