We had good discussions about films screened either at the Benalla Cinema or streamed on SBS OnDemand in August.
The Invite: On the surface it could be seen as a light comedy, but it was more than that. It was a rollercoaster trip for the two couples involved. The ending was good, open to interpretation. The four main characters are all well-acted. Cinematography was clever, with the use of windows being shown in part as framed photos Rated it as 3.5-4.0/5.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day: Some action to keep audience entertained and appeal to fans of action films. It has a message around issues of living alone and friendships as well as the inhumane treatment dealt out to people who are different. Rated it as 3.0/5.
Toy Story 5: With the basis of the story around the use of electronics rather than playtime, this was a good story about the value of playing and the cruelty and damage that can result from inappropriate use of social media. Rated it as 3.0/5.
The Odyssey: An action film with reasonable references to the original Greek myth of Odysseus’s journey home after the Battle of Troy. It is long and slow in parts, but the slowness could be appropriate given the time it took Odysseus to reach home.
Rated it as 3.5/5.
Supergirl: A slightly entertaining film, although the start was a bit off-putting. It is a growing up film with action. Could appeal to many different demographics. Rated it as 3.0/5.
My Sailor, My Love (SBS): An Irish film, well-made with good characterisation cinematography and acting. Rated it as 3.5/5.
My Talks With Dean Spanley (SBS): A quirky film with emotional healing. It is a gentle but strange film. Rated it as 3.5/5.
Joy Shirley
