"La Ronde" translates to English as "the round" or "the circle," and was sometimes used to refer to a merry-go-round or similar ride. For this film, La Ronde refers to a love circle which connects various trysts and romantic encounters in a giant circle.

It was, in a way, the Eyes Wide Shut (1999) of its time--only without the graphic sex and nudity. It was, remember released in 1950. At the time it was released it faced many censorship challenges…

This short film can be watched here: Moongirl (2005)

I am a huge fan on Henry Selick, so I was excited to recommend a film of his that I have not seen. Perhaps, thinking of Coraline and The Nightmare Before Christmas (and James and the Giant Peach), my expectations were set too high. This was OK, but not nearly what I would expect in terms of either plot or animation. Perhaps the thing that disappointed me the most was that…

The title of this film has a triple meaning. Benji, who six months prior to the trip to Poland had attempted suicide, is feeling deep emotional pain, a real pain. The tour that Benji and David are on is a walk back in time to the Holocaust in Poland; the memories and the personal connections are a real pain. And Benji, himself, is a real pain (in the ass) at times.

A Real Pain is part travel log, part character…

I feel blessed. Not just because I just watched this absolutely phenomenal film, but because I was able to go in blind. I knew almost nothing about the film other than it was receiving rave reviews. If you are considering watching this and you do NOT know any of the major plot points--leave now. Go away and avoid all other reviews on Letterboxd or anywhere else. Those reviews will still be there after you watch the film. You can catch…