Grave of the Fireflies (1988) -- I haven't seen this in years, but I just re-watched it and it still kicks ass. The fact that I knew the plot this time round did not diminish its impact. What a goddamn awesome, depressing, bittersweet movie. If you dig this, I suggest you see Fires on the Plain ("Nobi", 1959, Ichikawa). It's another kick-ass anti-war film, but, unlike "Grave...", it has a few moments of divine (morbid) humor that breaks up the intensity. I haven't seen "Fires" in a few years, but I'm pulling out my old VHS if I can't get it from Netflix.
Everyone should see these films, regardless of your political leanings, because they are masterpieces, and I never use that word to describe anything.
So, I'm sure that many of you folks are fans of Carpenter's The Thing (1982) and let me just say: it is totally worth watching this on Blue Ray. I just watched it with my brothers (and mom!) on a new 50" television.
Damn, it just looks gorgeous. I'm no expert in film transfers, but it certainly seems like they did a decent job on this BR release, because I didn't see any imperfections.
I saw this film when I was a kid (HBO at my grandma's house) and it scared the TurboChips out of me. It must have been 1983-84, and it was one of the best/frightening experiences I've ever had in my entire life. I was 8 years old.
I'm glad to report that it still packs a punch, all these years later.
Black Orpheus (Orfeu Negro, 1959) -- Holy crap, I've watched this movie so many times, and I just keep loving it. I suppose some of you will think some of the scenes are corny, but this movie is goddamn awesome. I could write an entire page about why you should see it, but, instead, I'll simply say this: you don't have to dig Greek mythology to appreciate this film. If you are familiar with the myth, though, you are in for a treat, because there are so many wonderful touches (the locations, especially at the film's conclusion, for instance) that just make you want to kiss every single goddamn person who was involved in the film.
Also, you can't help but love Orpheus' trademark song (especially with the kids). So. Goddamn. Awesome.
NEXT UP: Bladerunner. My brothers report that the details in the background that are visible on the Blue Ray are insane. Hopefully, I'll watch that this weekend.
NOTE: I decided that "awesome" and "goddamn" should be used liberally in all of my reviews.
