Happyend
A heartfelt ode to high school friendship, Neo Sora’s Happyend explores how bonds evolve—and dissolve—as adulthood looms. Set in authoritarian, near-future Tokyo, this coming-of-age drama is also bracingly funny and ideologically intense. Even better, despite its familiar set-up, the film bursts with personality: surprisingly authentic, easy-to-fall-for characters whose personal and political awakening make us laugh, grin, and ultimately choke up.
The Boy, The Heron and The Mystery of It All
A towering achievement of both animation and imagination, The Boy and the Heron was expected to be Miyazaki’s swan song, a fitting send-off for the auteur whom many see as the world’s greatest living animator. His choice of the somewhat ambiguous question “How Do You Live?” is especially poignant given the circumstances.
The Tragedy of Macbeth
O Brother Wherefore Art Thou: Joel Cohen’s Stunning Solo Shakespeare
Kernels of Truth
I’m more of a guide than a judge. I review a film because it resonates on some personal level. Many of those reviewed here have earned 4-kernel ratings—not because these films are equal, but because they represent some form of greatness. Even flawed films are worthy of discussion; some may be a better fit for you than for me. My goal is to communicate strengths and weaknesses, from my own biased perspective ... and to help you decide which ones pop for you.
