Jujube/2019-iffr-log
Nuestro Tiempo
- The main character comes across as controlling. I understand it is the film's intention, but I don't feel sympathetic.
- The film is long (almost 3 hours), but with unexpected imageries from the ranch there is enough space to not be annoyed.
- The bull/mule fight is visceral. well-captured.
- The still shot of the door — Juan goes in, pause, two ranch helpers go in, pause, Juan comes out again — with the child's narration as transition is puzzling. 1) Why so long? 2) Why a child as the narrator? (Perhaps to illustrate innocence and good-will - but it feels jarring.)
- I didn't finish watching because the image disappeared around 2h20min. Perhaps it was intentional. If so it is a baffling, unjustified choice.
Your Face Recommended
- Surprisingly moving with genuine images of old skin and twinkles in the eyes
- It hits me the moment the first face breaks the stillness (a woman in her late 60's or early 70's). She seems to be on the verge of tears while she laughs. The director's voice and the questions he asks are gentle.
- The overall flow is punctuated by seemingly mundane stories from working class people. All the women move me. One pushes down her feelings as she recalls her first love and the hardship during her youth. One keeps saying "don't laugh at me" while letting out a nervous laugh. One cries because she feels guilty about being an unfilial daughter.
- There is a lot of unease from some of the cast, who are not professional actors.
- I am not convinced by the last scene. I understand it as the set where the film is shot, but it tests patience.
The Day I Lost My Shadow
- Promising metaphor and opening scenes (esp. boy in sweater and over the sink).
- Sadly, the metaphor ("shadow") turns out more symbolic than effectual.
- The story has just enough gaps to be confusing. One main character seems to appear and die out of nowhere. The intimacy between the protagonist and him could have been portrayed more.
- War causes neurosis, yes, but simply displaying it alienates the audience.
- Hand-held shots = dizziness (perhaps a bit overused)