The Ice Tower

When watching a Lucille Hadzihalilovic film, even when you have no idea what the story is, you can expect something very different each and every time. Though there are stories to play out, full of mystery and existential dread, the atmosphere is set, the tone is understated and you can bet there will be a memorable character and an uncomfortable feeling in the pit of your stomach. The Ice Tower, slightly different from Hadzihalilovic’s previous offerings, in that the setting feels more definitive. Starting in the mountains, then travelling to a city and finally a studio where a film is being made. But this is not a story about the film industry, this is about infatuation and desire.

Teenage orphan Jeanne decides to run away from the current home she is in. Ending up in a city she recognises from an old postcard, she takes refuge in a studio. A film adaptation of The Snow Queen is currently being shot, starring the enigmatic actress, Cristina. As Jeanne slowly becomes infatuated with Cristina, she finds her way to being part of the production. Cristina equally is fascinated by Jeanne, though her motives become more and more unclear as the film nears its end.

Full review over at Filmhounds.

Pearl

 

Some may say that Pearl is the most beloved, if that word can even be used, film in Ti West’s trilogy. The villain from X has own story to tell and it is as dark as her soul. Thankfully we can now enjoy it in 4K. Second Sight’s releases of Pearl (and MaXXXine) are fantastic as always. Complete with extras on disc, art cards, booklet with various essays all presented in rigid case with brand new artwork and the film itself on 4K. Whether you’re a die-hard fan for the film or new to Pearl’s bloody beginnings, this is a release that worth having on your shelf.

Waiting for her husband to return from war, Pearl dreams of becoming a star, dancing on stage or in movies. But as her dreams are stifled by her overbearing mother, her sick father and her duties on the family farm, Pearl’s inner thoughts and desires start to break through with violent and bloody consequences.

Full review over at Filmhounds. 

Edwards Scissorhands

 

As Tim Burton’s previous masterpieces are being released in 4K, it was only a matter of time before one of his most beloved, now considered classics, made its way to our small screens in all its 4K glory. Edward Scissorhands, a character synonymous with director and actor alike, the film won us over with its bizarre charm and stylised design, one that could never really truly be replicated, except by the creator itself. Though we did get some version of this in a car advert during the Superbowl a few years back with Timothee Chalamet donning the scissorhands. The character made famous by Burton and Johnny Depp as the man himself, has been parodied, idolised by gothic millennial teens everywhere, especially at Halloween, but looking back at the film on its release on 4K, there is much more to be explored.

Full review over at Filmhounds.

The Testament of Ann Lee - BFI London Film Festival

 

Though there have been biographies that try to offer another way to tell a story, biographical films end up in the drama or comedy arenas with fair to middling results. But add in the founding of religion, a lot of choral singing and chanting and most importantly, dancing that will keep you captivated from start to finish and you have the making of something completely different. Directed by Mona Fastvold and co-written with Brady Corbet, The Testament Ann Lee is unlike anything you’ve seen in a very long time. 

This is the story of Ann Lee, or Mother Ann as she was eventually known as. From her harsh beginnings to her going on to becoming a founder of the Shakers religious sect in the 18th Century, starting in Manchester, UK and taking her followers to America.

Full review over at Late Night Picture Show