Kore-eda Hirokazu conducts the storytelling smartly, using the remarkable screenwriting as a way to slowly reveal layers and different readings of the characters. It's all miraculously moving and gratifying.
Smileys: Screenplay, structure, acting, editing, cinematography
Frowneys: Some issues with Yuko Tanaka's performance
Monster University: Chapter 2: The Sequel.
read the full review: www.aftermisery.com/monster-review
Nothing new when it comes to studio comedies but it's decently funny & sweet. Zags enough when you'd expect it to zig so formulaic wouldn't necessarily be the right description. Lawrence & Feldman are good, some of the cinematography is bad.
This horrendously written, directed and acted spinoff can't find a single reason to exist or inhabit its own dystopia. It's thematically incomprehensible and perhaps better if you don't see it.
Smileys: Nothing
Frowneys: Screenplay, characterisation, directing, acting, dialogue
Warning: watching this might cause you Spain without the S.
full review: www.aftermisery.com/bird-box-barcelona-review
Visually goes beyond its budget, production design being the highlight, but falls apart on the page. Unimaginative drama and poorly written dialogue swallow the characters whole.
Smileys: Production design
Frowneys: Dialogue, characterisation
full review: www.aftermisery.com/official-competition-memory-of-water-reviews
