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UFO Robot Grendizer vs. Great Mazinger
(Film, 1976)UFO ROBOT GOLDRAKE AGAINST THE GREAT MAZINGER REMASTERED EDITION BY YAMATO VIDEO, PRESENTED IN ULTRA HD 2160p 4K DTS HD+ MASTER AUDIOSYNOPSISDisappointed by the repeated failures of Gandal and Hydargos, King Vega entrusts the task of conquering the Earth to the cunning and ruthless commander Barendos, who He immediately elaborates an ingenious plan to destroy the UFO Robot Grendizer: instead of leading the attack on the Monsters of Vega, who have repeatedly proven ineffective against Grendizer, Barendos in fact takes possession of the most powerful weapon available to the earthlings: The Great Mazinger. After stealing it from Robot Museum exhibited as a symbol of peace together with Venus Alfa, Mazinger Z, Dianan Alfa and Boss Robot, has Alcor kidnapped and subjected to brainwashing using his own infernal machine, Alcor at the mercy of Vega's spacemen is totally subdued and reveals in Barendos all the secrets of the Super Robots, including the fighting power of The Great Mazinger. Taking advantage of the data obtained, the diabolical Vega officer personally launches an attack on the Space Research Center directed by Doctor Procton and is preparing to unleash the most titanic of battles; the one between The Great Mazinger and Grendizer! An epic clash that has become an animation cult. Will Grendizer be able to defeat his opponent? is it like? NOTE: the medium-length film "UFO Robot Grendizer against The Great Mazinger" shows us for the first time ever Alcor piloting The Great Mazinger in place of Tetsuya (still recovering from the very serious wounds sustained in the war against the Empire of Darkness ).#GreatMazinger #TheGreatMazinger #greatmazinger #TheGreatMazinger #Great #Mazinger #Mazinger #GreatMazinger #GrandMazinger #greatmazinger #Goldrake #Goldorak #UFORobotGoldrake #Grendizer #UFORobot #AtlasUFORobot #UFORobotGrendizer #Grandizer #GoNagai #ＵＦＯロボグレンダイザー #UFORoboGurendaizā #MazingaControGoldrake # Grīndāyzar #جريندايزر #Gurendaizā #グレンダイザー #GoldorakRymdfantomen
Oppenheimer
(Film, 2023)In 1955, Richard Feynman gave a speech on “The Value of Science.” He began with a Buddhist proverb he had learned on a trip to Honolulu: “To every man is given the key to the gates of heaven; the same key opens the gates of hell." This could be the extreme synthesis of a cinematic masterpiece that undoubtedly brought a thorny discussion from an ethical and moral point of view to the world's attention. The main focus of the film was the trial of Oppenheimer, the head of the Manhattan Project, not the inventor of the atomic bomb. In light of this, it is not difficult to understand how the historical narration of a fact that actually happened was the golden opportunity to once again put science and its technical and political responsibilities on trial. Since it is really difficult to find faults in this cinematic masterpiece, since I am not an expert in cinema or history and considering that by now everyone has reviewed Oppenheimer, I will limit myself to expressing 3 personal considerations. Let's start with Feynman. In 1955, 10 years had passed since the dropping of the two bombs, the audience gathered to listen to the future Nobel Prize winner (1965) was faced with a much more mature personality than the young genius; engaged in the Manhattan project before even obtaining a degree, he himself defined himself as a "nobody" and then became a point of reference like few others. A change of perspective that not only interested the youngest and most fervent minds of the project. Those who understood it with the Trinity Test, those who had confirmation with Hiroshima, those who had certainty with Nagasaki, everyone was aware that a new era had begun and it was necessary to take a clear position. There was no longer a Hitler to beat, but a humanity to safeguard. It's easy to figure out who
Suntan
(Film, 2016)CONTAINS SPOILERS! The film, written and directed by Argyris Papadimitropoulos, tells the story of Kostis (Makis Papadimitriou), a doctor who ends up on the small island of Antiparos. The winter passes monotonously, with its eight hundred inhabitants awaiting the beautiful season, when the island is populated by uninhibited young people. It is in the summer that Kostis meets Anna (Elli Tringou), to whom he gives first aid for a leg wound , immediately becoming enchanted. She thus begins to frequent the beach where she spends time in the company of some friends. Kostis is overweight, bald and rather introverted, therefore uncomfortable on a nudist beach. But the young people welcome him and start dating. During a pool party Kostis suffers when he sees the ease with which Anna behaves with other men: he feels like a fish out of water. Nonetheless, the two have sexual intercourse, but Anna distances herself from him, throwing him into the deepest desperation. As if that wasn't enough, Kostis's behavior is stigmatized by the local community, due to his interactions and the lightness with which he approaches his work. In the end he is fired. Seduced and abandoned, the man finally loses his mind, and when he confronts the girl in rude ways, he is thrown out of a club. Completely lacking in self-control, he kidnaps Anna's friend, drugs her and tries to abuse her, but gives up, realizing the brutality of what he is doing. He takes care of the unfortunate woman, torn by guilt and frustration. The epilogue sees the protagonist swallowed by a vortex that drags him into the abyss of destructive emotions. We could define Kostis as a modern Antiulisse, on the other hand we are in the Greek archipelago with a predominantly Greek cast. However, unlike the Homeric hero who exerts the charm of the castaway foreigner on the female figures of the islands where he lands, Suntan's perspective is
Pandemiocracy
(Film, 2021)I've watched it on Plex. A very interesting documentary that gives very good advices on how to prepare yourself to cope up with pandemics. Good interviews with very good scientists like the Italian virologist Pregliasco. I've discovered this film thanks to Filmamo. Thank you guys!
Like Sheep Among Wolves
(Film, 2023)noir thriller debut feature. Not perfect: plot already seen. But there is hope for the future. Ragonese is good at getting into character. Score 6 and a half
Cosmic Sin
(Film, 2021)What would happen if a 12-year-old boy who grew up on action and science fiction blockbusters won the lottery and decided to make his dream come true? This film. At a certain point I was afraid if they would come out with something like "so I'll shoot you with the ultrasonic space megasuperultrabazooka", like the kids playing in the courtyard. Thanks to the millions of Sharknado (the lottery, in fact) Edward Drake he was able to realize what seems to have been a dream of his. Let's hope at least he is happy.
The Spiders' Man
(Film, 2018)It's a solid film with a good story to tell from Philippine-Italian actor-director Ruben Maria Soriquez, who co-stars in this film that sees a very good acting performance by the respected Philippine actor Richard Quan. The film is about two half brothers (Alberto a rich Italian played by Soriquez and Mike, affected by Autism and Schizophrenia, played by Richard Quan) and their American friend (Lee O' Brian) set about getting their lives back together when an inexperienced group of thugs headed by the crazy and ruthless Bong (Rob Sy) violates their peace and takes them hostage. The rescue will come from an unexpected hero...The film is a well paced crescendo of jokes and grotesque situations with the music that well underlines them adding a pretty cool style to it. The narrative jumps from the drama of the mental illness of Mike (Richard Quan) to the comedy bits between Alberto (Ruben Maria Soriquez) and David (Lee O' Brian), and from heartfelt moments (when Alberto comforts his brother Mike by telling that his father loved him and that he was his favorite child) to the dark humor of the brutal yet funny killings, all in a seamless way. And the brutal killings of the film are the occasion for the director to reference the extrajudicial killings that took place during the sadly famous war on drugs in the Philippines. The director Soriquez stated that his film was highly autobiographical, with real situations taken from his extended family (with exception of the killings) and that he didn't want the film to be too heavy and dramatic, the reason why he decided to treat the material with lightness and black humor.
Dune
(Film, 2021)The latest cinematic transposition of the famous sci-fi novel written by Frank Herbert, Villeneuve's Dune contains at least three narrative lines that can be traced back to different dimensions. First of all the geopolitical aspect, which largely overlaps with the history of many colonizing European countries that subjugate other peoples to exploit the precious raw materials kept in their land (the spice on Arrakis, coltan in Congo). Then there is a second, more intimate component, which follows the evolution of the protagonist, Paul Atreides, son of Duke Leto and as such destined to take his place. In reality, the young Paul proves conflicted: is the legacy that awaits him really the right path for the future? “If your answer is no, you will still be what I wanted you to be: my son,” the father states laconically. His mother, on the other hand, has much clearer ideas and tries to convince him through her teachings. However, when Paul understands that there is a very specific plan for him, he feels helpless, a prisoner, a marble on an already marked path. He thus begins to question himself about free will, in particular about the impossibility of being truly free. On the other hand, this condition unites him with the Fremen, guardian people of the desert of Arrakis who see in him the long-awaited messianic figure. But he is not flattered, because, as happens in any form of religion, they "see what they were told to see". In short, Paul is searching for himself, for a place in the world, for an increasingly distant and elusive identity. Luckily for him, he will soon discover that there is no point in trying to understand everything about the world, but that you have to experience the world by letting yourself be crossed by it. Only in this way is it possible to transform randomness into destiny, one's own. Furthermore, a precise idea of the relationship with the environment it designates shines through in this philosophy
Nightmare Alley
(Film, 2021)presented as Del Toro's "The Prestige", it has little or nothing of Nolan's work, while it has everything of the Mexican filmmaker's art. The colors (turned to green in the interiors just like in "The Shape of Water"), the historical period, the monsters/freaks, the attention to the framing, the interior architecture, well this Fair is Del's Expo Bull. A film that, visually, is a constant pleasure and even the crudest sequences or the most disturbing images are always carefully crafted and refined. The female cast (Colette, Mara, Blanchett) always enchanted by the handsome Cooper adds refinement to a setting that has nothing welcoming about it, while the protagonist deceives everyone with charisma and "mentalistic" games that seem to come out of the screen and influence us spectators too . A Noir from other times, lost in the obsessive smoke, in the always rainy or snowy climate, with evocative flashbacks (which betrayed me a little, taking me to evolutions that didn't exist) and... well-recognizable characterizations of the characters. At the end of the viewing I have the feeling that something was missing, but on balance it's more my fault for a plot that I expected and never got where I thought it would. I imagine several nominations for the next Oscars.EDIT: I didn't know the original and I was missing some references. As it happens, that sense of "absence" that I perceived and couldn't explain was precisely in the director's choice not to tell the protagonist's past, except through evocative images often taken in flashbacks. There was also a bit more sexuality missing, too glossy here, never murky, never vulgar (in fact I defined it refined above).
Fahrenheit 9/11
(Film, 2004)Beautiful documentary that many in America have accused of being anti-American and biased and drawing conclusions based on questionable sources. The sources that Michael Moore cites, unfortunately, are truthful. Michael Moore, with great irony, shows us how the presidency of G.W. Bush exploited the attack on the Twin Towers to carry out his own warmongering agenda to derive enormous profits, all in favor of the Bush family, a major shareholder of the Carlyle group (which produces armaments) in which Bin Laden's family also had considerable interests.
Rome, Open City
(Film, 1945)A true masterpiece of Italian cinema, forever among my favorite films. Note the screenplay by Federico Fellini. Fellini-Rossellini! what a dream team! We had such virtuous pairings in Italy today! We would return to being the cinematic center of the world, as we once were. A realistic, poignant and exciting film, a truly timeless pillar.
Parasite
(Film, 2019)Bong Joon Ho gives a wonderful lesson in filmmaking with this fantastic film with exceptional storytelling. A rare piece of skill. This film cannot be pigeonholed into a single genre because at the same time it is comedy, tragedy, crime, horror, social satire, which makes it, in fact, indefinable. A film that transcends linguistic barriers because it deals with universal social dynamics and trends such as class struggle, treated with intelligent and acute humor. Parasite: but who? The rich family or the poor one? A wise and irreverent direction, an impeccable production design, remarkable acting performances shape this film which is a masterpiece from any point of view you look at it.
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ALL ZACK SNYDER FILMS FROM WORST TO BEST
No one in the contemporary cinematic landscape is as discussed - and questionable - as Zack Snyder. Each of his films and each of his public releases start endless discussions on the web, with real factions lined up ready to fight each other comment after comment. Like it or not, the only thing that cannot be taken away from Snyder is that he is an author. And this does not mean expressing any qualitative judgment but is simply an objective observation.
Snyder has his own vision - both of the world of narration and of cinematographic language - which he has carried forward, film after film, throughout his career. A journey that, on the occasion of the release of the second part of Rebel Moon, we want to tackle starting from his worst work and arriving at his best.
Rebel Moon<13 > - Part 1&2
We start from Zack Snyder's latest effort but, unlike the distribution choice made, we keep Parts 1 and 2 of Rebel Moon together. The project, which arrived between 2023 and 2024, was supposed to represent a new approach to the great blockbuster after its arrival on Netflix and the first work of adjustment (Army of the Dead) born from the union between the author and the giant of streaming. A distantly mature Snyder, far from the difficult period, which he didn't have to take into account any intellectual property, free to create and with an excellent budget at his disposal. The final result, however, is the perfect example of what some spectators have always held against him: a good hand for action scenes, a taste for the single shot but on the other hand a surprising narrative inability. And above all in this case an exasperated but empty quotation in a project that seems to have been born in the wrong era.
Sucker Punch
It's easy to draw a common thread capable of uniting Rebel Moon and Sucker Punch. The 2011 film arrives at a fairly similar stage in his career as the Netflix project. Snyder at that time had 4 feature films under his belt. They are all, between remakes and adaptations, taken from existing intellectual properties. They have already created a rift in the public but on the other hand they are quite successful. Here then is that Snyder has the opportunity to stage a personal project, planned for several years. Sucker Punch is born but even in this case the reception is disastrous. Those waiting for him at the gate had found the perfect target for his accusations. A film that managed to create individual images that were impressive for the level of detail and details in the scene. But even in this case it was totally inconsistent on a narrative level, derivative beyond belief.
Army of the Dead
<0 >Let's take another leap forward in this strange journey of ours within Zack Snyder's career. We are at the dawn of his collaboration with Netlfix, a few months after the release of the infamous Zack Snyder's Justice League. The project inevitably brings to mind the debut of the American director, who returns to the realm of zombie movies after almost 20 years. Here too, however, the classic problems that occur when he manages a project in its entirety arise. Of course, gender helps. Snyder gets it right when it comes to managing mass scenes and zombies lend themselves to it, as does a "limited" and more linear context. Yet it falls into some exaggerations that drag some passages into ridicule, as well as into the classic excesses of pathos totally out of context.The kingdom of Ga'Hoole - The legend of the Guardians
The Kingdom of Ga'Hoole is perhaps the least explainable film of Snyder's career. The classic title that catches the eye and raises doubts about whether or not you are on the right web page. It's simply difficult to remember it or, at least, remember to associate it with Snyder's career. Yet the film isn't that bad. Of course, it struggles to express true narrative potential and to marry its mood with that of the target audience (which sufficiently explains the lackluster result at the box office). Yet it maintains great dignity on a visual level, with the director managing to give vent to his undeniable technical and visual ability. It has aged not too badly, some moments remain of excellent workmanship.
Batman V Superman
And here we are at a real and its own stone of discord. First of all some context. It's 2014, Marvel is racing madly through Phase Two, scoring one success after another. Two years earlier, led by Joss Whedon, it had succeeded in the impossible, that is, not only to bring the Avengers to the screen with dignity and quality but also to use that assembly as a huge upside bet. At DC, the success of Nolan's Batman had paradoxically prevented them from sowing what was necessary to create a universe and they had found themselves chasing and in the meantime the relaunch of Superman had been entrusted to Zack Snyder for whom a sequel was awaited. The idea that came up was to skip the stages, transform the sequel into a clash between the man of steel and the caped crusader, complete with an introduction to a truly expanded and shared universe. The result is an impressive jumble of stuff. Snyder tries to infuse every single frame with epicness, with some undoubtedly successful and memorable passages. But overall the chaos, the inexplicable passages and the lapses in style come out on top.
Man of Steel
Another step back, let's go back to the progenitor of Batman V Superman. Snyder is chosen for the aforementioned relaunch, under the "supervision" of Nolan. The main problem of the film is Goyer's script which has passages bordering on the parodic, in which the death of Jonathan Kent stands out without a shadow of a doubt, as well as a general atmosphere - which the director overplays - which seems years away light than that suited to the Kryptonian. Yet in this case Snyder's hand comes to the rescue as he uses the ending as a true disaster movie to give vent to his ability. The clash between Superman and Zod still remains today memorable for ambition and scope, even above most of the large-scale clashes ever staged at Marvel. Of course, it also carries within it the moral problem of the destruction of Metropolis. But on a visual level you certainly can't say anything to him.
Dawn of the Dead
We get to the debut film by the American director who, after a fair apprenticeship in the field of commercials and music videos, arrives in the world of cinema. The project was soon announced, once signed by Universal he was entrusted with the remake of Dawn Of The Dead (Zombie in Italy), Romero's historic 1978 film. The script is by James Gunn, curiously the same one who 20 years later will come to lead the DC universe to eliminate the Snyder Verse. And it is no coincidence that one of Snyder's best films comes from the hand of one of the most talented screenwriters of this generation. The director, probably still shy, leans on the script without missing a beat, concentrating on the action scenes and immediately showing off his good hand. Even here in some passages the narrative cohesion is lost. Yet the individual segments still work perfectly today.
300
The next project immediately brings Snyder to a subject which would then characterize the majority of his production over the years. Or rather the adaptation of a comic. Not of a random author, but of that Frank Miller who he will cite on several occasions, in particular The Return of the Dark Knight as the main source of inspiration in the Batman V Superman period. In 300 Snyder is committed to following the original material as much as possible, starting to exasperate the slow motion - which will become a trademark - almost as if to bring his moving images back to the static nature of the table. A film that is completely a product of his time and above all capable of intercepting - and in part forming - a taste that was developing precisely at the beginning of 2000. Of course, the exasperation is at its highest level, as is Snyder's insistence on painting his protagonists oiled up and muscular. But it is undeniable that 300 is well imprinted in the collective memory of a generation.
Zack Snyder's Justice League
How perhaps you will notice in this ranking there is no trace of Justice League. A project that is the result of no one but wicked choices from both a human and professional point of view. Instead there is Zack Snyder's interminable, lopsided and inexplicable version. A real case-study regarding the contemporary world of great Western film productions. Let's be clear, there is practically nothing positive in the dynamics that led to the release of this Director's Cut. Just as it is difficult to give an objective judgment on the film. Yet it is a work - especially in the black and white version - so exasperated (and exasperating), so extreme in its authorship that it cannot leave one indifferent. You can certainly hate it, just as you can underline the eternal problems of Zack Snyder as the author. But one cannot in any way remain indifferent to certain images and stylistic choices taken to total excess. Especially in the face of a constant flattening that has affected major Hollywood productions.
Watchmen
We come to Watchmen, the title that probably more than any other is capable of bringing together the factions created around the American director. Of course, there is no shortage of criticism here too. In particular those related to the excessive tracing of the plates taken from Moore-Gibbson's masterpiece. But Snyder, unlike practically everything else in his career, manages to never get lost in any passage of the narrative. He slavishly follows the path already traced, only to change at the end in a passage that is still controversial today but which at least has its full coherence. Yes, there are exaggerations and less-than-subtle choices (like putting Hallelujah during a sex scene). At the same time he gives some dream sequences, does an excellent job in the atmospheres, perfectly marrying his constant desire to oppress the spectators with the mood of the original work. And what's more, by digging up its video clip soul - it offers opening credits that still get everyone talking today for their perfection.
by Giacomo Lenzi of ScreenWorld. it for Filmamo
THE BEST TENNIS FILMS
Challengers by Luca Guadagnino has been stealing the show in recent weeks and is practically on everyone's lips. A film that, as expected, uses sport as a context (and perhaps as a metaphor) to tell a story of conquest, passion and above all conflict. In this regard, it becomes more than legitimate to ask what drives directors to use sport as a viaticum for their stories: as often happens in cinema, apparently central elements can occupy an important space that allows the real themes of the film to flow properly towards the viewer's mind. We shouldn't talk about "tennis films" per se, but about films that have been able to make the most of the dynamics of this sport to tell stories of various kinds in the most interesting way possible. Here are 5 that will make the wait for Guadagnino's new film sweeter.
1. Match Point (2005)
We cannot talk about cinema and tennis without mentioning one of the most impressive and successful works of Woody Allen. According to the New York maestro, Match Point could be his best film: a story of intrigue and ambition that becomes a delicate match between truth and lies. A confrontation fought blow for blow when a former tennis player, now an instructor, finds himself in a twisted game of passions that will lead to nothing good. Perhaps not a film directly about sport, but a work that transcends its context to bring out a careful analysis of the importance of randomness in life - a founding theme for all of Allen's filmography after 2000.
< br />2. Borg McEnroe (2017)
A production decidedly more immersed in tennis, given that it talks about a real confrontation dramatized for the occasion. Much talked about upon its release, thanks to the over-the-top interpretations of its protagonists (in particular an unexpected Shia LaBoeuf) and a narrative process that almost hints at the grotesque in some situations, Borg McEnroe is loaded with tension and pathos until the explosive final match. It's not just sport, however, and perhaps this is precisely why the film manages to capture the viewer: Janus Metx and his actors gave weight to men, even before athletes
< br /> 3. The Battle of the Sexes (2017)
Another true story inspires the film by Jonathan Dayotn and Valerie Faris (famous directors of Little Miss Sunshine) starring Emma Stone< 2> and Steve Carell. The iconic '73 tennis match between Billie Jean King and the crazy Bobby Riggs, rendered with care and above all passion, manages to entertain while trying to tackle an extremely current topic. Obviously it is not the surgical precision in the transposition of history that should be of interest, but rather the strength with which that message of equality and freedom manages to touch common sentiment.
4. The fifth set (2020)
Probably the least known work of the selection, less didactic and with a more authorial inspiration (even if conventional by its very nature). Director Quentin Reynaud's film collects what it can from the experience of champions who were not and tells the story of revenge of Thomas, a former prodigy who never managed to emerge who decides to participate in the French Open at 37 years old. A film that does not want to squeeze as much as possible from the stylistic features of classic sports films, but which shows the darker side of the life of those who make competitive spirit their reason for existing.
5. A winning family - King Richard (2021)
The film that led Will Smith to win the Oscar on that crazy night that marked his career ( especially in the negative) is not the biopic everyone was expecting. The idea of making a film about the story of Venus and Serenza Williams, two legends of this sport, could easily lead to the most obvious and banal praise possible. King Richard is forced to do so only in part, because for the rest he manages to exploit a powerful and totemic image like that of Richard Williams to show the challenges of fatherhood in the face of prodigies and successes. A reminder, especially in Zach Baylin's screenplay, that a simple story can still surprise if written with the right care, from tennis for tennis.
Waiting to discover your opinion on Challengers, tell us your ideas about these films! Which one intrigued you the most and which in your opinion is the best film "about" tennis?
by Gabriele Cerrito of ScreenWorld.it for Filmamo
BEST HISTORICAL TV SERIES TO WATCH
Historical TV series represent the perfect source of entertainment for anyone who wants to travel through time through the screen, especially thanks to their ability to capture the essence of bygone eras and transport viewers to distant worlds. Dramas, thrillers or love stories across time continue to captivate millions of viewers, whether in the short format of the miniseries, or season after season in the cases of major blockbusters. Some of these are based on true events, demonstrating that, sometimes, reality surpasses fiction; others have imaginary characters as protagonists, while the most daring completely reinvent the reference era to create new and exciting worlds. From those that focus on faithful historical reconstruction, such as The Crown, to those that mix invented characters with authentic historical settings, or that offer an intriguing and original vision of events from the past, such as the brand new Mary & George, we take you on a discovery of some of the best historical TV series to watch.
Mary & George
This new period series challenges the conventions of the genre and delves into dark corners of the Stuart court: Mary & George, created by D.C. Moore and available from Sunday 7 April exclusively on Sky, explores the scandalous relationship between England's King James I and his favourite, George Villiers, through a modern and uncensored lens. With the extraordinary performance of Julianne Moore in the role of the Countess of Buckingham who, through intrigue and subterfuge, convinced her son George (Nicholas Galitzine) to seduce King James I to make her his omnipotent lover, this Sky Atlantic production promises to immerse viewers in a world of intrigue, unbridled ambition and forbidden passions. The central relationship between Mary and George emerges, above all, as one of the most fascinating aspects of the series: rather than a conventional maternal bond, it resembles a criminal partnership, with the mother acting as her protector and her son her most prized possession. This perverse and at the same time provocative dynamic is masterfully portrayed by Moore and Galitzine, who manage to convey a mixture of complicity and resentment: not to be missed!
Franklin
Among the upcoming historical TV series to keep an eye on is also Franklin, a gripping historical and biographical drama starring Michael Douglas in the as Benjamin Franklin, one of the most iconic figures in American history. Created by Kirk Ellis and Howard Korder, this epic 8-part story explores a pivotal time when the future of American independence was being played out in France, through Franklin's diplomacy, charisma, and wit. In December 1776, Benjamin Franklin embarked on a secret mission to France: at the age of 70, without any previous diplomatic experience, he found himself negotiating the future of a nascent nation. Based on the book A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America by Stacy Schiff, it tells how Franklin convinced an absolute monarchy to invest in the American democratic experiment. The series, out April 12 on Apple TV+, pays homage to a man whose vision was instrumental in shaping the American nation. In addition to political and diplomatic history, it presents itself as an in-depth exploration of the character and personality of one of the most multifaceted geniuses of his time.
The Great
Catherine the Great as you have never seen her before: this series, created by Tony McNamara (screenwriter of "The Favourite" and "Poor Creatures" by Yorgos Lanthimos), is a comedy halfway between grotesque and humor wildest, which traces a widely documented historical moment: the rise to power of Catherine II of Russia, who held the title of Empress of Russia for 34 years from 1762 until her death. Played brilliantly by Elle Fanning , Catherine must juggle love, betrayal and palace tensions, while she plots to kill her husband, a crude and cruel Peter III ( Nicholas Hoult ). The historical liberties, the cutting dialogues, the shameless tone and the mannerist staging are the keys to a story that hides the claws of power beneath the humour.
The Crown< 6>
Could British history be understood without its royal family? Netflix gave us a brilliant period series to answer that question: The Crown, based on Peter Morgan's hit play "The Audience." The series tells the story of the last queen of England, Elizabeth II, and the relationship between two of the most famous addresses in the world: Buckingham Palace and number 10 Downing Street, through the intrigues, loves and machinations behind the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century. Two houses, two courts, one crown: each season tackles the political rivalries and personal intrigues of Elizabeth II's decade-long reign and explores the delicate balance between her private and public lives, weaving together some of the country's most iconic moments, with historical figures such as Winston Churchill or Margaret Thatcher. A history lesson mixed with palace dramas and sensational performances, which have made it a success among critics and the public.
Alias Grace
Set in 19th century Canada, this miniseries directed by Mary Harron is a little Netflix gem: Alias Grace follows the story of Grace Marks (Sarah Gadon), an Irish servant convicted for her alleged involvement in the brutal murder of her employers. The series, like the novel, is a historical drama with elements of mystery that explores the circumstances and motivations that led to the tragic event. However, Alias Grace is much more than just a crime story: it is an acute and thoughtful exploration of female oppression and the struggle for autonomy and self-determination. Based on the novel of the same name by Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid's Tale, this miniseries delivers equally biting social commentary and boasts an incredible cast, led by Gadon's electric performance in the role. by Grace. Alias Grace stands out from other series for its mature and fierce portrayal of women's oppression in Victorian society: through Grace's transformation arc, we see how social expectations and restrictions limit her autonomy and determine her destiny.
Downtown Abbey
In the county of Yorkshire lives an aristocratic family who has made the public fall in love with this series of romantic entanglements and family scandals. The lives of the Crawleys and their servants run alongside some of the most important events of the time in the United Kingdom, from the sinking of the Titanic to the Spanish flu pandemic, to wars and conflicts with Ireland.
Since 2010 , millions of viewers could no longer do without the intrigues of this estate, discovering the fate of the main family, the Crawleys, and even critics crowned it one of the best historical TV series ever: the victories speak for themselves of 3 Golden Globes, 15 Emmy awards and 3 BAFTA awards. With a first-rate British cast, including a standout performance from Dame Maggie Smith, Downtown Abbey is a winning look at collective history and personal stories, so successful that two sequels were made, 2019's Downton Abbey and Downtown Abbey II – A new era of 2022.
Bridgerton
Bridgerton is certainly not synonymous with historical fidelity, but this does not mean that the era in which it is set is not immediately recognisable, especially for fans of Jane Austen's novels. The Netflix phenomenon series has been a resounding success since its first season, even raising the bar with the next and confirming its status as a "must see" for fans of the genre with a penchant for love stories. Julia Quinn's novels have fascinated millions of readers and, since 2020, millions of viewers: Netflix has definitely hit the mark by bringing the stories of love, adventure, intrigue and growth of the Bridgerton brothers to the screen. Sumptuous dresses, furtive glances, hidden loves, social conventions and a soundtrack that transforms pop classics into the perfect melodies of a masquerade ball of 19th century British high society are some of the keys to Bridgerton's overwhelming success. The third season is coming in May!
by Agnese Albertini of CinemaSerieTV.it for Filmamo
5 BEST MOVIES FOR TEENS ON NETFLIX
Whether you are a teenager or have already passed that stage of life for several years, films for teenagers still remain one of the best forms of entertainment that can be found on the Netflix platform. The streaming giant offers a vast selection of content specifically designed for young audiences, but also for those who remember well what it means to be young. These are titles set in high school, which talk about first loves, bitter disappointments but also deep friendships, the kind we end up carrying with us (at least in our hearts) throughout our lives. From this infinite range of possibilities, we have selected five films, perfect to keep you company during your next evening of sofa and popcorn. So here are what, in our opinion, are the best films for teenagers to watch on Netflix.
1) All the times I wrote I love you (2018)
Let's start our article with what, in reality, is the first film of a saga composed of three titles and based on the literary trilogy written by the American author of Korean origins Jenny Han. To All the Times I Loved You (2018) stars Lara Jean Song Covey (Lana Condor), a shy and romantic high school student who keeps a secret diary in which she keeps letters written to the boys of who she was in love with. The letters, never sent and always jealously guarded by the girl, one day mysteriously end up in the hands of the recipients, including her best childhood friend and sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh, and Peter (Noah Centineo ), her first crush and the most popular boy in school. Lara Jean will thus end up finding herself in a series of embarrassing situations, especially when Peter asks her to pretend to be engaged to make her respective love interests jealous.
To All the Times I Loved You is a film that celebrates the importance of friendship and love, while offering an authentic representation of the period of adolescence and addressing issues such as achieving independence, self-awareness and personal growth. The following titles in the saga - P. S. I Still Love You (2020) and Yours Forever (2021) - continue the relationship between Lara Jean and Peter through new important stages for the two protagonists like senior year, prom and college choice.
2) Three meters above the sky (2004)
Probably, before their love story was revived by Netflix, they Today's teenagers didn't even know who Step and Babi were. With its publication on the platform, however, the film that marked a generation - and, above all, which launched the actor Riccardo Scamarcio - has also begun to make inroads into the hearts of very young people, demonstrating that, in Basically, he did his first twenties quite well. Directed by Luca Lucini and based on the novel of the same name by Federico Moccia, the film follows the complex and often conflictual relationship between Babi (Katy Saunders), a girl from a good family who attends a private school in Rome, and Step (Scamarcio), a young rebel who spends his days racing clandestine motorbikes and pranks with his lifelong friend, Pollo.
Despite belonging to two completely different realities, the two will end up falling madly in love, but will have to deal with the expectations of society and their respective families. A recommended viewing for those eager to embark on an emotional journey through the joys and difficulties of first love, made even more engaging by the chemistry of its protagonists and an unforgettable soundtrack, a unique testimony to the early 2000s.
3) Yours, Simon (2018)
If you are looking for a title that addresses the theme of universal love and self-acceptance with a particularly fresh and touching perspective, Yours, Simon is definitely for you. Directed by Greg Berlanti and film adaptation of the novel I Don't Know Who You Are, But I'm Here, the film follows the vicissitudes of Simon Spier (Nick Robinson), a teenager apparently like many others but who hides his orientation sexually to family and friends. However, his life will take an unexpected turn when he begins to correspond anonymously with another gay boy from his school, finding in him a safe haven to freely express his thoughts and emotions, without the fear of judgement.
What makes Yours, Simon so significant are its realistic and well-developed protagonists, and the ways in which the film explores the sense of isolation and fear that many LGBTQ+ teenagers experience on their journey to acceptance of itself, while remaining a story full of hope and courage.
4) Little Women (2019)
Seventh film adaptation of the famous novel by Louisa May Alcott directed by director of the year Greta Gerwig, Little Women follows the lives of the March sisters, four young women with different characters and aspirations yet incredibly united, during and after the period of the American Civil War. The plot unfolds through flashbacks and time jumps, offering an intimate and engaging look at family dynamics and the challenges faced by the protagonists as they try to realize their dreams in an era dominated by rigid social conventions.
Gerwig brilliantly manages to capture the essence of the original novel, maintaining its historical setting and spirit while she adds new perspectives and nuances to the characters' stories. Furthermore, the film can count on the masterful performances of an exceptional cast, made up of Saoirse Ronan (Jo), Emma Watson (Meg), Florence Pugh (Amy) and Eliza Scanlen (Beth) as the close-knit sisters, Laura Dern as their mother Marmee, Meryl Streep as Aunt March and <67 >Timothée Chalamet as Laurie.
5) Fear Street: Part 1, 2 and 3 (2021)
Let's completely change genre and conclude our article on the best films for teenagers on Netflix with another saga of three titles, which could still be considered as a single, great film. We are talking about Fear Street, a horror trilogy based on the children's novels by R.L. Stine is set in three different eras, 1994, 1978 and 1666. The films follow a group of young people (among the leading actors there is also Sadie Sink from Stranger Things) who clash with the darkness that hovers over the town of Shadyside, a place haunted by mysteries and horrors linked to a long history of violence and tragedy. Each film focuses on a different generation of characters, trying to unravel the dark secrets of their city and survive the attacks of an ancient and particularly vengeful evil.
With a blend of suspense, action and gore, the three chapters that make up the Fear Street saga offer viewers an exciting journey full of terror and mystery, while not losing sight of the classic themes of the young genre adult, from friendship, to love, from personal growth to the search for a sense of belonging.
by Sofia Biagini of CinemaSerieTV.it for Filmamo
TODD HAYNES' BEST FILMS
Among the most interesting releases of March, that of May December risks going spectacularly unnoticed: the new film by Todd Haynes, nominated for this year's Oscars without the 'Italy was able to see it in time, it is just the umpteenth work by one of the most elegant and important authors of the last decades of cinema. It is not an exaggeration to consider Haynes, a director with a postmodern heart, as one of the most influential names inside and outside Hollywood: over the past 40 years, his films have always left their mark for their style, for their innate ability to overturning social conventions through the magic of aesthetics and the deconstruction of reality. The arrival of May December represents an unmissable opportunity to recover the works of an artist who is transgressive, unconventional and almost always impeccable in his staging. So here are the best tips for discovering the cinema of Todd Haynes, an artistic universe that constantly plays between parallel realities and intertwined stories to directly impact the observer.
1. Velvet Goldmine
After an extremely interesting debut, between productions awarded at Sundance and small cults like Safe, 1998 was the year of the limelight for Haynes. Velvet Goldmine, a cult work for fans, is an intriguing work of fiction that explores the life of rock star Brian Slade (a captivating personality who is strongly inspired by icons such as Lou Reed, Iggy Pop and David Bowie). Making perfect use of a cast featuring Ewan McGregor, Jonathan Rhys-Meyers and Christian Bale, this film brings together very different glimpses to build a non-linear narrative that captivates from start to finish. A stylistic feature, especially in the screenplay, which will remain so in all subsequent works.
2. Far from Paradise
Despite having achieved a fair amount of fame in the 90s, it was the beginning of the 2000s that consecrated Haynes' talent even in the eyes of Hollywood that matters. In fact, 2002 saw the release of what is still considered his most important work, Lontano dal Paradiso. This elegant melodrama starring a Julianne Moore in a state of grace tells the story of a woman who discovers her husband's homosexuality and rediscovers her love while facing the hypocrisy and racism around her. A work of great impact, which in addition to exposing very powerful themes manages to enhance an incredibly multifaceted imagination - but above all inspired by the works of Douglas Sirk, the most scandalous director of the 1950s who with his unscrupulous gaze contributed enormously to breaking down hypocrisies of America at that time.
3. I'm Not Here
Haynes' fifth film, released in 2007, is perhaps the most particular biopic in memory, at least in recent times. With the clear intention of telling the life of Bob Dylan, the director chooses five different faces to explore the various periods of the artist's life through the experiences of imaginary characters: Christian Bale, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger and Cate Blanchett . An operation that had never been seen in those years, but which, through Haynes' style and his obsessive construction of scenes, completely revolutionized the way of approaching the genre. The result is a product that entertains, but above all fascinates and captivates through the most daring surrealism.
4. Carol
2015 sees Haynes approaching an extremely important adaptation, that of Patricia Highsmith's iconic novel. The Price of Salt, a taboo opera from the 1950s, explored the murky relationship between two women from different social classes. Carol, through the memorable performances of Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, manages to reach heights of expressive power and formal elegance that are perhaps unexpected even for a transposition of this caliber. Each sequence of the film leaves you breathless, enriched by a direction that is extremely careful in transmitting passion and feeling through even the smallest hints, managing to keep you glued to the screen and to overwhelm the hearts of the spectators.
5. Bad Waters
Perhaps the impact of Carol affected Haynes to the point of influencing all his subsequent works. Although the director has always been attracted to the biographical genre, the last years of his career have highlighted his progressive approach towards increasingly real stories. Dark Waters, Bad Waters, is only the latest example in chronological order. The 2019 film, which anticipates May December and its crazy news story, sees Mark Ruffalo in the role of Rob Bilott, a lawyer who undertakes a complex legal action against a large company. Perhaps a less impactful work than the previous ones, but which still bears witness to an important historical interest and allows us to admire some excellent performances - with names of the caliber of Anne Hathaway and Tim Robbins supporting the protagonist.
Haynes has shown that he always has very clear ideas, both in terms of the construction of his imagery and in terms of attention to his stories. May December, starring Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman, will arrive in theaters on March 21st and will tell an even more delicate story, given that it is openly inspired by a very thorny American news case. All that remains is to wait for its release in our cinemas!
by Gabriele Cerrito for ScreenWorld.it for Filmamo
5 FANTASY FILMS TO WATCH ON NETFLIX
Fantastic creatures, universes to explore, heroes who must establish their own arc and confront very fearsome villains: the fantasy genre is, undoubtedly, among the most engaging, both in literature and in the audiovisual medium. Not surprisingly, it is also the genre that has given us some of the greatest blockbusters of all time, and one of those in which streaming platforms invest the most. Damsel is no exception, Netflix's brand new fantasy offering starring one of its stars par excellence, Millie Bobby Brown from Stranger Things and Enola Holmes. Directed by the Spaniard Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (28 weeks later), this medieval fantasy that begins in the purest Game of Thrones style presents us with the evolution of the classic trope of the "damsel in distress", Elodie, a warrior heroine locked in the cave of a fire-breathing dragon (dragoness, to be more precise) after discovering that her marriage was all a trap. No Prince Charming, in Damsel it is Elodie who faces the vicissitudes that mark the hero's journey. Precisely on the occasion of the release of this interesting project, we want to recommend 5 other fantasy films to watch on Netflix, stories with atypical heroes and heroines, which will win you over with their original narratives, the care in staging and in the construction of fantastic worlds , into which you can immerse yourself without wanting to leave.
I Kill Giants
I Kill Giants is Walter Anders' interesting debut film , which takes on the contours of a fantasy story to deal with extremely human topics: mourning and the way we deal with it. Based on the graphic novel by Joe Kelly and J.M. Ken Niimura, this fantasy film available on Netflix has as its protagonist Barbara (Madison Wolfe), a pre-adolescent who lives between reality and fantasy, or rather, between the very delicate family situation and the bullying she is a victim of at school, and the fantasies in which she takes refuge, where she is a heroine facing the giants who threaten to destroy the city. Similar to J. A. Bayona's film, A Monster Calls, I Kill Giants uses fantasy as a tool to process complex emotions and to start a journey of self-discovery, acceptance of reality and, finally, maturation. Understanding what is fiction and what is not is part of becoming an adult and this is why we consider I Kill Giants one of the best fantasy proposals for children and teenagers on the platform.
L The Academy of Good and Evil
Among the other fantasy films not to be missed on Netflix is the Academy of Good and Evil, which presents itself as a fairy tale full of moral and philosophical reflections . This film, taken from the first part of Soman Chainani's pentalogy, goes beyond the simple fantastic context to immerse itself in the complexity of the human heart and stands out for its ability to convey profound messages through an engaging plot and well-developed characters. With a mix of fantasy and reflection, The Academy of Good and Evil offers an experience not to be missed for lovers of the fantasy genre.
The plot follows the adventures of best friends Sophie (Sophia Anne Caruso) and Agatha (Sofia Wylie), students at the titular academy, where aspiring heroes and villains from our favorite fairy tales are trained to preserve the balance between good and evil. However, Sophie's dream of becoming a fairytale princess turns into a nightmare when she is sent to the Academy of Evil while her friend Agatha, who does not aspire to a fairytale life, finds herself at the Academy of Evil. Well. Not only will their friendship be at risk, but also the fate of the entire fairytale world.
Kong - Skull Island
Second chapter of the saga of the Monsterverse by Legendary and Warner Bros., this fantasy film directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts in his second directorial effort convinces mainly for the imposing stage presence of King Kong himself. In focusing everything on its mammoth dimensions, the most feared monster besides Godzilla has also developed a certain ability to adapt to the dangers of nature to further enliven the action sequences. In this journey, the cast is deliberately ridiculed and exploited to make them absorb the Skull Island, the wild kingdom dominated by the most disparate creatures and the class struggle with the gorilla at the top of the food ladder. It was impossible to get on the same level as Peter Jackson's remake, but Vogt-Roberts cleverly played the entertainment card to make the film solid, immediate and entertaining.
Valerian
With Valerian, Luc Besson returns to the refined atmospheres of The Fifth Element and also reclaims the light-hearted, light-hearted tone, full of moments of heart-pounding action. With the duo Dane De Haan and Cara Delevingne, the French director explores a world halfway between potentially actionable science fiction and pure fantasy with a vivid and colorful imagery borrowed from the comics material of Pierre Christin. Note of merit for the subtitle City of a Thousand Planets, a design idea that is still breathtaking today that mixes a myriad of different cultures and species to form a renewed society that aims for progress. Also to be rediscovered for the updated special effects that are well integrated with the actors on stage, an excellent result considering the record multi-million dollar budget in Europe. Elementary in structure but endowed with great inventiveness and originality in its staging, this fantasy film certainly deserves a more in-depth viewing.
The Old Guard
< 0>With The Old Guard, you will immerse yourself in epic battles, in the fiery determination of the century-old immortal warrior Andromache of Scythia (Charlize Theron) and in the dark evil of the scientific genius Merrick (Harry Melling). We are not faced with a simple action film by definition: The Old Guard builds a fantastic universe where female heroines forcefully impose themselves in a territory traditionally dominated by men. This touch of freshness is one of the main reasons why this film shines in the Netflix catalog among other options of the genre, offering a solid plot, full of emotions and complexity, which raises the film well above of the average. The Old Guard stands out for its ability to entertain and lay the solid foundation for a possible future franchise: an invitation to explore a world of immortal warriors and timeless adventures, leaving viewers with a burning desire to discover more. If you are looking for a fantasy film that will captivate you from start to finish, The Old Guard is definitely a choice not to be missed!by Agnese Albertini of CinemaSerieTV.it for Filmamo
5 BEST TV SERIES THAT TALK ABOUT SEX
In the vast world of TV series, there is a fundamental aspect of life that is given more and more space: sex. In recent years, in fact, streaming platforms have opened up their catalogs to a new era of narratives that address the theme of sexuality in an open, honest and, sometimes, provocative way, offering products suitable for all tastes and all age groups. age. There are shows dedicated to younger viewers - such as Sex Education - which explore the topic with great sensitivity and a pinch of humour, and others designed for those looking for more passionate stories, such as Sex/Life and You Me Her.
To guide you in choosing the right vision for you, in this article we will illustrate what, in our opinion, are the best TV series that talk about sex in circulation. Ready to explore the more intimate and passionate side of the serial universe?
1. Sex Education (2019 - 2023)
We could only start our article on the best TV series that talk about sex with what, since its debut on Netflix in 2019, has become one one of the platform's flagship shows, teen drama beloved by young (but not only) viewers, arriving in its fourth and final season in 2023: Sex Education. The protagonist of the narrative is Otis Milburn (Asa Butterfield), a British teenager son of an internationally renowned writer and sexual therapist, Jean (played by Gillian Anderson). Equipped with innate therapeutic abilities, the boy - supported by his determined and rebellious schoolmate Maeve (Emma Mackey) - soon begins to put these skills to good use, starting a sexual counseling business in his high school, Moordale Secondary School.
Although it is an entertainment product, Sex Education has the merit of raising public awareness on the topic of sexuality, providing simple but clear indications, for example, on how to relate to others , express your most intimate desires without fear of prejudice and prevent some of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. The series also has the ability to explore the extremely multifaceted world of adolescents through a wise use of irony, lightly (but not superficially) tackling highly relevant issues such as abuse, bullying and illness mental.
2. Big Mouth (2017 - ongoing)
More provocative - but still set in the world of very young people - is Big Mouth, irreverent animated comedy created by Nick Kroll and Andrew Goldberg and landed on Netflix in 2017. Frankly addressing issues related to the period of adolescence, the series follows the lives of a group of New York teenagers who, with curiosity and horror, discover the changes - physical and psychological - which brings with it the “magical” world of puberty. At their side in this complex phase made up of first encounters and sexual desires of all kinds are the hormone monsters, large and hairy anthropomorphic creatures who answer to the names of Maurice and Connie and who guide our immature protagonists through the travails of adolescence, giving advice that often ends in tragicomic situations.
Big Mouth, however, does not just try to get a few laughs from its audience, but aims to bring to the screen what we have all experienced, tackling without mincing words and with great realism the fears, difficulties and experiences - often embarrassing - related to puberty, and using an educational approach on important issues related to sexuality, respect for oneself and others, as well as the acceptance of one's imperfections.
< 0>3. Masters of Sex (2013 - 2016)
The TV series Masters of Sex has a more historical-scientific approach, broadcast for four seasons, from 2013 to 2016, and centered on the life of two pioneers in the reformulation of modern sexology between the 1950s and 1960s. Based on Thomas Maier's biography “Masters of Sex - The true story of William Masters and Virginia Johnson, the couple who taught America about sex”, the show revolves around the two protagonists, Doctor William Masters (Michael Sheen), an esteemed and uncompromising gynecologist and a secretary of the gynecology department, Virginia Johnson (Lizzy Caplan), who undertake groundbreaking research into human sexuality at Washington University in St. Louis.
A research that breaks the social conventions of the time, exploring taboo themes such as gender identity and sexual desire and challenging the moral restrictions of the context in which William and Virginia operate. Masters of Sex is a bold and brazen series, with the ability to never seem vulgar despite the issues addressed being often particularly intimate, if not downright scabrous.
4. Sex/Life (2021 - 2023)
If you are looking for a fair dose of eroticism and transgression, Sex/Life is certainly the television series that suits for you. The story follows Billie Connelly (Sarah Shahi), a former doctoral student in psychology who, trapped in a daily life marked by her duties as a wife and mother and taking care of the house, begins to fantasize about the exciting life she led years ago with her ex-boyfriend Brad Simon (Adam Demos). So, when Brad suddenly reappears, the fire of passion is rekindled in the woman, inevitably leading her to reflect on her past choices and what the price to pay is to have a more adventurous and fulfilling existence back.
If , on the one hand, Sex/Life offers an interesting insight into female desire and pleasure, speaking openly about sex and showing it, without fear, in all its forms (with numerous nude scenes), from Altro brings to the screen a realistic representation of human relationships, tackling - often ruthlessly - the challenges, joys and conflicts that characterize life as a couple.
5. You Me Her by her (2016-2020)
We conclude our article with the series which, upon its debut in 2016, was presented as the first polyromantic comedy on television . Just as the title suggests, at the center of the narrative we find a love triangle, the one that forms between Jack (Greg Poehler) and Emma (Rachel Blanchard), a married couple now plunged into the monotony of daily routine, and Izzy (Priscilla Faia), an escort (but also a psychology graduate) who the two contact in the hope of rekindling their marriage. But what begins as a simple adventure soon turns into something more complicated: husband and wife fall in love with the new arrival, giving life to a threesome relationship made of passion but also a lot of jealousy.
You Me Her addresses, with great intellectual honesty and a fair dose of irony, the dynamics of polyamorous relationships, offering an innovative point of view on a phenomenon that is more relevant than ever and which breaks the mold - often imposed by society or our value system - of monogamous relationships.
by Sofia Biagini of CInemaSerieTV.it for Filmamo
