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Drugstore Cowboy (1989)

Dir. Gus Van Sant

7.4 IMDb / 82 Metacritic

A group of young adults test their luck in drugs and crime, but the love they have for each other can only carry them so far.

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Buffalo ‘66 Full Review

Dir. Vincent Gallo

9/10

By Isabella Brock

Buffalo ‘66 is one of the staple independent films of our time - it’s eccentric plot, dull colored landscapes and quirky characters created the modern arthouse film - and it rightly deserves it’s title. Every detail, from the oddly specific character motifs to the eccentric plotline, feels like something we all might have experienced before. It captures more than a moment in time, but a feeling which we all can understand - making what could’ve been a forgotten indie film a modern classic. 

The film’s success comes from it’s absolute originality. From the inserted clips on top of continuing scenes, dulled colors reminiscent of old home movies, characters which appear exaggerated but feel absolutely real. The result is a film which is the greatest reminiscent of suburban life during the late 20th century, from the scenery all the way down to the frustrated undertones of the characters. The performances given throughout are unfaltering in their stunning accuracy. Huston is almost unrecognizable dressed up as a suburban housewife, and her performance as Billy’s unfocused mother is nothing less than brilliant. Garazza’s supporting role as Billy’s father feels authentic from the first meeting, his interactions with Ricci both heartfelt and perverted in a way only sexually frustrated middle aged men can encompass. Most notable however, is the relationship between Gallo and Ricci. Despite having troubles off screen, the chemistry between the two actors is palpable enough to have the audience rooting for a relationship created out of the worst situation imaginable. In each unbelievable turn their relationship takes, the Ricci and Gallo keep the film from falling flat. This film’s brilliance lies in it’s details, and it’s layered irony and commentary make it a film to watch again and again. Gallo succeeded in creating a film in which his idealized fantasy of the American suburbs intertwines with reality - in a way which feels genuine to those who have experienced it.

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Days of Heaven (1978) 

Dir. Terrence Malick

8.0 IMDb / 93 Metacritic

Coined as one of the most beautiful movies ever made, this drama follows the lives of two lovers who sacrifice their passion for wealth in the early 20th century.

Full review to follow on cinemarec.

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The Science of Sleep (2006)

Dir. Michel Gondry

7.3 IMDb / 70 Metacritic

This quirky drama intertwines dreams with reality as it’s characters struggle with the harsh realities of life and love.

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Bad Education (2002) (La Mala Educación) 

Dir. Pedro Almodóvar

7.5 IMDb / 81 Metacritic

This eccentric and unique film about cause and effects bends the rules of narrative as it tells the story of abuse in a Catholic church and the effects it has on many lifetimes.

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Buffalo ‘66 (1998)

Dir. Vincent Gallo

7.5 IMDb / 68 Metacritic

This dark avant garde film looks inside the mind of a emotionally damaged man as he attempts to right the injustices of his life.

Full review to follow on cinemarec.