#filmanalysis

[sociavoidance]

Ballerina: A Cinematic Recital of Revenge

Ballerina, an action-packed film, takes a unique approach to the revenge genre by incorporating ballet elements into its narrative. The story kicks off with Okju, who appears to be on leave from a high-end security firm, thwarting a robbery with canned vegetables. However, her life takes a dark turn when her friend Min-hee, known as "Ballerina," commits suicide and leaves a note asking for vengeance. Director Lee Chung-hyun, known for his previous work on The Call, creates Ballerina, a cinematic masterpiece (at least to me) that serves as the platform for a revenge story. Determined to convey a sense of recital or performance art, Lee successfully emphasized factors such as cinematography, production design, and music, to the point where the title tracks directed by GRAY were titled after ballet terms such as "Adagio" or "Coda" aligning with the film's theme. A standout feature is the virtual spaces designed for the main characters—Okju, Min-hee, and Choi (the antagonist). The art director Kim Min-hye utilized symbolic elements to convey emotions, such as warmth in Okju's lonely house, fragility in Min hee's space decorated with a fish tank, and humility in Choi's house adorned with antique pieces and artworks. Ballerina addresses dark themes of assault, grooming, and human trafficking, highlighting a woman's fight for justice. The film relies on striking visuals and cinematography, using fluorescent lights and vibrant colors in flashback scenes to contrast the harshness of the overall story. Okju's character development and strength lead to a satisfying ending, with the villain meeting a painful demise at her hands.

[artbychelcie]

Murder on the Dancefloor: The Chokehold of Oliver Quick

'Saltburn' has catapulted leading actor Barry Keoghan into our daydreams, revitalised music careers stagnant since 2007, and ensured we never look at a bathtub the same way ever again. It's delicious darkness has amassed a huge audience, some revelling in its lurid glory and others questioning what the f*** they just watched. There’s so much to say about this film, so many parallels and Easter eggs that tickle the brain notice - for today, I’m focusing on why Oliver Quick intrigued me the most.

As a devoted horror fan, some of the more controversial scenes served to stimulate rather than disturb… The vampire scene? That's just an average Tuesday night for some. The grave scene? Nothing compared to the visual impact Patrick Bateman’s hobbies. But what did succeed to unnerve me was the turning point of the film, when Felix suprised Oliver with a trip home for his birthday. You watch with stunned panic as she says his dad has been pacing all day waiting for him - in real time the web was unravelled and Oliver's traumatic background was quickly proven to be a façade. For me this scene positioned the 'real' Oliver to the audience, realising the person we thought we knew isn’t real at the same time his friend does. And this is where my interest peaked. For me, this film suddenly turned from a critique of the upper class, to a mythological study of a sociopath, and the subsequent events demonstrate how someone with an apathetic disposition could easily infiltrate and dominate a household of such wealth and status.

On a second watch, I couldn't help but laugh at Felix's naiveity as he pulled into the driveway of this enormous house, and noted that it looked as though his mother 'had really turned things around'. Anyone watching this would immediately question how someone allegedly suffering with severe mental illness and drug abuse issues manages to, in the space of less than 6 months, become the owner of a property of that scale. This small observation highlights just how out of touch Felix is anyone outside of his social class, and how Felix's pity towards Oliver, be it through kindness or ego or a convenient blend of the two, blinded him to the manipulation.

Another incredibly successful aspect of the film is the iconic soundtrack. It has brought some early 2000 musical classics back into the spotlight (we all know the best one) and I can admit I have listened to 'Loneliness' more times in the past two weeks than ever in my 26 years of life. The soubdtrack embodies the nostalgic and romanticised qualities of the film, set in 2006 before smartphones dictated every aspect of daily life, especially as a fresher. I may have been only 10 when Oliver Quick started university, it still made me long for the simplicity of this era of my life, when getting to know another person was fundamentally down to face to face interaction.

The choice to turn back time to the mid 2000s contributes to maintaining the mystery of Oliver's identity, depriving the characters of the ability stalk his social media profiles and forcing them to take his personality at face value. His manipulation, and eventual dismantling of the Catton family, was arguably possible through his ability to present himself without the hinderance of a digital footprint. There was no evidence available to anyone in Oliver's immediate circle of the sisters we found out he had, of the father that had infact not died, nor been an alcoholic drug dealer. So why did he lie?

In analysis I've seen online, many people contribute his deception to a need to be noticed by Felix, or in Oliver's own words, to 'perform' for his attention and friendship.

Revisiting the film, I picked up on certain phrases Oliver used to describe his home life, describing it as 'dirty' and proclaiming he could 'never go back'. To us, this sounds like the way you would describe his chaotic home life he described. But when the reveal comes, you can’t help but question why he’s adamant to distance himself from a seemingly stable, and privileged background.

During the scene, his parents also mention how he is the top scholar at Oxford, a member of the rowing team, participating in the school play... his chronic deception extends beyond the Catton family to his own. They also share with Felix that he was 'such a loner' and was 'so clever' that he struggled to make friends, both earmark characteristics of someone with sociopathic tendencies. This illustrates an individual who has never been satisfied, who always saw himself as superior, and who's fixation with Felix was just a desire to climb up and out of all the menial and average and into a position of absolute control.

The grandiose and self-absorbed lifestyle of the Saltburn estate allowed for someone like Oliver, whatever his original or developed intentions, to blend in without being truly seen until, both before and after death came knocking. The need to stifle emotional expression (We don't want to hear your American feelings, Farleigh!) and the uncomfortable obligation to uphold the British sentiment to 'Keep Calm and Carry On' gave him an invisibility cloak, blending in with his surroundings. It reframed Oliver's awkward disposition as one of politeness, and his manipulative sexual deviancy was guarded by members of the household behind a wall of upper class social etiquette.

I can safely say I have fallen into the deliciously depraved world of Saltburn, so much so I’ve felt like I had to write this. I love experiencing and analysing media, but this one really had me captivated. This is a maze will happily lose myself for weeks to come, especially when it comes to the complex and captivating portrayal of Oliver Quick - I would definetly sign my estate over to that beautiful crazy bastard.

[lettersxcaffeine]

"We are lost in our freedom, longing to feel urgency, necessity, the preciousness of time in love and in like, the irrevocableness of a decision; but when anything is possible, nothing is special." -Molly Haskell

[cinephilesadeqi]

Movie Analysis and Review: "Keeping Up with the Joneses" (2016)

Synopsis:“The Gaffneys’ lives take an unexpected turn when new neighbors, Tim and Natalie Jones, inject glamour and mystery into their mundane suburban existence. As the couple becomes entangled in international espionage, their ordinary lives give way to a thrilling adventure beyond the confines of their cul-de-sac.” Key Themes:“Keeping Up with the Joneses” revisits the classic Touchstone…

[metaphorwrites]

Returning to a Familiar Place of Love: 500 Days of Summer and Meri Pyaari Bindu

Do you have that one place in your home or your city with which a lot of memories are attached? Memories concerning a person or an experience which you will carry with you for the rest of your life? Meri Pyaari Bindu and 500 Days of Summer share narrative affinities and spotlight is given to that one place where love blossoms as well as withers. In Meri Pyaari Bindu, Bindu and Abhi’s favourite…

[deepreels2025]

Discover the future with Project 2025, a groundbreaking initiative from the tech giants that merges AI, quantum computing, and sustainability. This ambitious project promises to revolutionize industries through intelligent automation and unparalleled data processing speeds, aiming to seamlessly integrate technology into every aspect of life. Yet, as we step into this new era, we must consider the responsibilities and challenges it brings. Issues like privacy, ethical boundaries, and the impact on jobs are crucial. As we explore Project 2025, we must ask ourselves: will it become our ultimate ally, or are we delving into unpredictable terrain with unforeseen consequences? The future awaits, and only time will reveal the answers. Project 2025: Unveiling the AI-Quantum Leap into the Future published first on https://www.youtube.com/@DeepReels2025/

[mineofilms]

Coming Soon (2025)

Things are happening in 2025! Personal ventures I’m diving into are a mix of deep dives, essays, and fiction that explore everything from breaking down modern metal to the timelessness of logical thinking and even the eugenics of the early 20th century.

Expect new insights on The James Webb Space Telescope, an existential look at The Fuckening. Yes, you heard me right: —The Fuckening— You know that moment when everything’s going your way. You are up in the game by 7 about to win your crazy bet, and you start eyeing the universe like, “Something’s about to go down…”? Sack fumble for a touchdown happens, losing your bet. Oh, look—there it is. The Fuckening. We’re gonna discuss some Carl Jung cause of course we are gonna get into Jung Synchronicity—plus some unexpected twists in the world of film and music.

Stay tuned, stay curious, and let’s see where the journey takes us. Check out my full schedule here:

[psychicnightmareninja]

The Haunting Impact of Requiem for a Dream on my worldview

Requiem for a Dream is one of those films that stays with you long after the credits roll. Directed by Darren Aronofsky and released in 2000, it’s not just a movie. It’s a visceral experience that cuts deep into the psyche. The film’s unflinching portrayal of addiction, the fragility of dreams, and the descent into despair have profoundly influenced my understanding of human vulnerability and the harsh realities of life.

A Window into the Abyss

From the very beginning, Requiem for a Dream immerses you in a world of aspirations and delusions. The characters Harry, Marion, Tyrone, and Sara each have their own dreams and desires. They seek happiness, success, and a sense of fulfillment, but their means of achieving these goals lead them down a path of destruction. The movie doesn't offer any solace or redemption; instead, it shows the stark consequences of addiction, not just to substances, but to dreams and the relentless pursuit of an idealized future.

This depiction of addiction has made me more aware of the many forms it can take. It’s not just about drugs; it’s about the compulsions and obsessions that can consume anyone. Whether it’s the pursuit of fame, wealth, beauty, or even love, the film illustrates how our dreams, when distorted by obsession, can become our greatest downfall.

The Fragility of Dreams

One of the most poignant aspects of the film is how it shatters the idea that dreams are inherently noble or safe. The characters’ dreams are simple, Sara wants to be on television, Harry and Marion dream of opening a boutique, and Tyrone seeks a better life, but the means they use to achieve these dreams ultimately destroy them.

Requiem for a Dream made me question the notion that all dreams are worth pursuing. It forced me to consider the consequences of chasing after something without regard for the cost. The film doesn’t suggest that dreaming is bad, but it does highlight the danger of allowing dreams to blind us to reality. This has led me to approach my own aspirations with a sense of caution and reflection, ensuring that I am not sacrificing my well-being or the well-being of others in the process.

A World of Isolation

The film’s portrayal of isolation is another aspect that deeply resonated with me. Despite being surrounded by people, each character is profoundly alone in their struggles. Their inability to connect with others, to share their burdens, or to seek help contributes to their downfall. This sense of isolation is something I see echoed in the world today, where despite being more connected than ever, many people feel increasingly lonely and disconnected.

Requiem for a Dream has made me more aware of the importance of human connection. It has reminded me that reaching out to others, building genuine relationships, and being open about our struggles are crucial in preventing the kind of isolation that can lead to despair.

A Reflection on Society

Beyond the personal, the film also offers a scathing critique of society. The portrayal of Sara’s addiction to diet pills and her obsession with appearing on a game show highlights the societal pressures placed on individuals, particularly women, to conform to certain standards of beauty and success. This critique extends to how society often overlooks the underlying causes of addiction, focusing instead on punishment rather than understanding and rehabilitation.

The movie has influenced my view of how society deals with issues like addiction, mental health, and poverty. It has made me more critical of the systems in place that often exacerbate these problems rather than solve them. The film’s grim depiction of these realities has pushed me to think more deeply about the need for empathy, understanding, and systemic change in addressing such issues.

A Cautionary Tale

Requiem for a Dream is not an easy film to watch, nor is it one that leaves you with a sense of hope. But it is precisely because of its brutal honesty that it has had such a lasting impact on me. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession, the fragility of dreams, and the isolating nature of modern life. More than just a film, it’s a powerful reflection on the human condition and a stark reminder of the importance of balance, connection, and self-awareness in the pursuit of our dreams.

In the end, Requiem for a Dream has influenced my worldview by instilling a deeper understanding of the complexities of addiction, the importance of maintaining perspective in the pursuit of goals, and the necessity of fostering genuine connections in an increasingly disconnected world.

[atmnetwork]

ATMs in Cinema: More Than Just a Background Prop!

Ever noticed how ATMs pop up in films and not just as part of the scenery? From action-packed sequences to crucial plot twists, ATMs have had their share of cinematic spotlight. Let’s dive into some iconic movie moments where ATMs played more than a mere background role!

Remember that scene in Terminator 2? Young John Connor uses his hacking skills on an ATM to fund his escapades—an early glimpse into the fusion of technology and rebellion in cinema. Or how about the suspense-filled moments in Zodiac where an ATM transaction turns into a chilling encounter?

ATMs in movies often symbolize more than just cash withdrawals; they can be pivotal to character development or even act as a plot catalyst. Imagine the tension when a character, desperately in need of escape money, finds the ATM out of order—cue the dramatic music!

Let's chat: What's your favorite ATM scene in movies? Drop your thoughts and explore how these everyday machines take on extraordinary roles in the film world!

[fabioemme78]

[cinephilesadeqi]

Movie Analysis and Review: "A Dangerous Method" (2011)

Synopsis: In the year 1904, the Russian woman Sabina Spielrein seeks treatment for hysteria at Carl Jung’s clinic, leading to a successful application of Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytical theories. As the story unfolds, Jung’s professional and personal dynamics with Freud and Sabina become entangled, exploring themes of psychoanalysis, power, and the challenges of maintaining objective…

[metaphorwrites]

THREE OF US AND PAST LIVES: THE ART OF LONGING

“But that little girl did exist. 20 years ago, I left her behind with you.” These are the words of Na Young in the movie Past Lives. But this can very well be the words of Shailaja from Three of Us. Watching the two movies within a span of one week made me realise how similarly their heart’s beat. How does it feel to return to one’s udgam? How does it feel to witness it as the third person? Both…

[deepreels2025]

In a captivating video, we delve into the enigmatic world of Project Z, a secretive tech initiative that has sparked curiosity and speculation. Shrouded in mystery, this project, rumored to be driven by top tech giants, could either revolutionize artificial intelligence or attempt to seize control of the digital realm. Insiders whisper about its potential to push AI boundaries or monopolize information flows. Despite the scarcity of details, one thing is clear: Project Z possesses the power to redefine our technological landscape, standing as either a beacon of innovation or a symbol of dominance. With the world's attention fixed on this clandestine endeavor, the unfolding of Project Z remains a thrilling mystery, leaving us to wonder if it will usher in a brighter future or a shadowy reign. Only time will reveal its true impact. Project Z Unveiled: Revolutionizing AI or Controlling the Digital Future? published first on https://www.youtube.com/@DeepReels2025/