Classics: A Review of Paprika By Lauren Ennis

 Over the course of just one decade and four films Satoshi Kon established himself as one of the most formidable and innovative directors in animation. If one film captures the psychological thrill, visual splendor, and thought provoking storytelling that defined Kon's work is his 2007 drama Paprika. Part surrealist journey into the human psyche and part pulse pounding detective drama the film has gained iconic status in the decades since its release. For a movie that is truly unlike any other chase your dreams with Paprika.

The story begins with hardened cop detective Konakawa searching for a traitor in the audience of a circus. What seems to begin as a standard police procedural soon takes a surreal turn, however, when it is revealed that the circus search is really just part of his recurring nightmare. The film then introduces viewers to the therapist attempting to treat his night terrors, the enigmatic Paprika. This simple premise is then flipped on its head when viewers learn that Paprika is actually the alter-ego of psychiatric researcher Dr. Chiba, who works for a team developing new neurological treatments. Her team is currently testing their latest invention, the DC Mini, which allows therapists to enter patients' dreams in an effort to better understand a patient's trauma and illness. When the DC mini is stolen the team is launched onto a chase in which the lines between dreams and reality blur and the fate of humanity is on the line.

The film explores the power of dreams both the nocturnal and aspirational kind to create a mind-bending thriller the likes of which animation was made for. The film's depiction of dreams as representative of the subconscious takes viewers on a fascination journey  into the human psyche. This portrayal highlights the ways in which all of us are impacted by subconscious desires and fears of which we may not even be aware. In this way, the film asks viewers to confront the deep-seated hopes and anxieties that we all keep hidden, even from ourselves. The film's depiction of aspirational dreams is equally compelling as it showcases the ways all of us are driven by our dreams for the future. The film is particularly notable for its poignant depiction of the lasting impact of our dreams even long after we have abandoned them. Even as it acknowledges the devastating impact of ignoring and forsaking our dreams the film never veers into despair and instead uses the struggles of its characters to remind us that its never too late to pursue our dreams. While the film explores cerebral subjects the story maintains the same upbeat outlook and unabashed playfulness as its titular heroine. As a result, the film offers an inspiring message of hope that viewers from all walks of life can relate to. Discover of the genius of Satoshi Kon with Paprika.

Over the course of its ninety minute run time the film serves up an unforgettable feast for the eyes and ears. The film showcases Kon's signature style to dazzling effect as it captures the enigmatic power of dreams. The film's array of images, colors, and symbols brings the world of our dreams in al of their beautiful, terrifying, and inspiring mystery to life all while following the disjointed logic of a dream. As a result, the film leaves viewers feeling as though they are traveling in a dream along with the characters while recalling viewers' own dreams. The animation's ethereal atmosphere is amplified by the music of Kon's frequent collaborator, Susumu Hirasawa. Hirasawa's score blends the infectious charm of pop with the futuristic sounds of synth techno to expert effect. The soundtrack aptly reinforces the film's themes while infusing the proceedings with an exhilarating sense of adventure. Together, the score and animation create an enchanting world the likes of which viewers have only seen once upon a dream.

Paprika is the final film in Satoshi Kon's directorial career; and what a way to complete a career. The film perfectly encapsulates Kon's unique animation style, innovative editing techniques, and groundbreaking approach to storytelling. Nearly twenty years after its release the film's influence can still be seen in Japanese animation and even live-action Hollywood. Discover the magic of the movies when you dream a little dream with Paprika.

Classics: A Review of The Crow By Lauren Ennis

"People once believed that when someone dies, a crow carries their soul to the land of the dead. But sometimes, something so bad happens that a terrible sadness is carried with it and the soul can't rest"; so begins the 1994 thriller The Crow. The film relates a classic tale of revenge and redemption with a 90's gothic edge that inspired a generation. Blending action, romance, and a rocking aesthetic The Crow continues to fly high thirty years after its release.

The story begins in Detroit on October 30, 1993 with police responding to a brutal double homicide. It is soon revealed that the victims were Shelley Webster and Eric Draven, a young couple preparing for their wedding the following day. After Shelley spoke out against their landlord a gang of thugs was sent to scare the couple into silence in an attack that went fatally awry. Eric was shot and thrown from one of their apartment's window while Shelley was viciously beaten and gang-raped. On the one year anniversary of the attack Eric is resurrected from the dead for one purpose; to avenge his and Shelley's murders. The film then follows Eric on a bloody quest for justice. But will one restless soul be enough to take on an entire criminal enterprise? And even if Eric does avenge his and Shelley's deaths will his thirst for revenge ever be fully quenched?

Adapted from James O'Barr's acclaimed graphic novel The Crow relates a tale of revenge and redemption that is at once utterly unique and universally relatable. Like vigilante classic Death Wish before it the film utilizes the anarchic backdrop of an urban America overrun with crime. In this way, the film appealed to contemporary viewers and continues to resonate with modern audiences who are all too familiar with the dangers that await just outside of their front door. The film additionally endears itself to viewers by presenting Eric and Shelley as average people caught up in the senseless violence surrounding them. Through this depiction of its central couple the script ensures that viewers will empathize with them and therefore root for Eric's success regardless of how bloody his quest for vengeance becomes. Even as it relates a classic revenge story the film infuses its tale of love, loss, and bloodlust with a gothic edge that many films have imitated but few have replicated. The setting uses an expressionist aesthetic that transforms 1990's Detroit into a nightmarish hellscape straight out of a Weimar-era horror film. The soundtrack perfectly captures the tone of the script and infuses the proceedings with a melancholic spirit that reminds viewers of the torment that is driving its hero. While the on-set death of Brandon Lee gained the film notoriety it is its sincere depiction of love, grief, and the ways in which they motivate us all that has earned the film is iconic status. Forget the sequels and remakes and satisfy your need for revenge-fueled viewing with The Crow. 

The film brings the world of the original comic book to visceral life thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Sofia Shinas conveys warmth and girl next door charm in her brief appearance as Shelley. Bai Ling is equal parts seductive and sadistic as criminal mastermind Top-Dollar's half-sister turned mistress, Myca. David Patrick Kelly, Michael Massee, and Laurence Mason capture the brutality of Top-Dollar's henchmen, T-Bird, Fun Boy, and Tin-Tin. Anna Thompson aptly portrays the desperation of Eric and Shelley's drug-addicted neighbor and Fun Boy's girlfriend, Darla. John Polito personifies sleazy as local pawnbroker Gideon. Rochelle Davis turns in a haunting performance that is beyond her young years as Darla's street-wise daughter, Sarah. Ernie Hudson personifies decency as honest cop and Eric's unlikely ally Sergeant Albrecht. Michael Wincott makes for a worthy adversary as the equal parts cruel and charismatic Top-Dollar. Even in the midst of apt supporting performances the film belongs to the late Brandon Lee. IN Lee's hands, Eric is more than a wronged man and is instead the living personification of grief in all of its fury and desperation. Lee's performance combines stunning martial arts skills, raw emotion, and cool charisma in a performance that has yet to be topped thirty years later.

While it does not reinvent the revenge story The Crow offers a tale of revenge and redemption that still packs a gut-punch three decades after its release. The script blends action, emotion, and aesthetic to impressive effect, creating an iconic viewing experience. The performances bring O'Barr's characters to vivid life and transports viewers to the cruel city streets that they inhabit. For a bloody good time hit the streets with Eric and The Crow.

Classics: A Review of The Others By Lauren Ennis

 As long as humanity has grappled with death it has shared ghost stories. For millennia we have used the specter of ghosts to cope with our eternal questions of what has become of those we have loved and lost and what awaits us upon our own inevitable deaths. These tales have taken on a variety of forms from the chilling to the melancholic, but rarely has any ghost story been so original and haunting as 2001's The Others. Over twenty years after its release The Others continues to grip audiences with its wrenching tale of grief, guilt, and acceptance. For a hunting like no other pay a visit to the British isles with The Others.

The story begins in 1945 on the Channel Island of Jersey after the end of Nazi occupation of the island during World War II. Three servants arrive at the country manor of Grace Stewart and her two young children. The children, Nicholas and Anne suffer from severe photosensitivity and become ill when exposed to sunlight. In an effort to ensure their health Grace shrouds the home in darkness, much to the servants' discomfort. Soon after the servants' arrival, eerie things begin happening which defy explanation. Devoutly religious Grace dismisses her children's stories of ghostly imaginary friends as childhood fantasy at best and sacrilegious pranks at worst. When she has otherworldly encounters of her own, however, her skepticism and faith are put to the ultimate test. 

The film showcases all of the thrills, chills, and eerie atmosphere of a classic ghost story while still offering a unique take on the genre. The film sets itself apart from the majority of ghost stories by exploring not only supernatural hauntings but also the memories and regret that haunt us all. In this way, the film acts equally as well as either a meditation upon grief, regret, and letting go or a supernatural thriller. The film also stands out from its contemporaries by limiting its use of special effects and trusting viewers to use their own imaginations to devise even greater scares than any that CGI could conjure. In this way, the film avoids both dating itself and talking down to its audience. The film's final twist is nothing short of devastating and is certain to haunt viewers long after the final credits fade. This Halloween, take an island vacation to die for with The Others.

The film casts an unnerving spell thanks to the spirited work of its cast. Christopher Eccleston perfectly captures the torment of Grace's traumatized husband, Charles. Fiornula Flanagan conveys warmth and understanding as Mrs. Mills. Elaine Cassidy is nothing short of haunting in her silent, but powerful, turn as mute servant Lydia. James Bentley captures Nicholas' innocence without becoming saccharine. Alakina Main shows surprising maturity in her compelling turn as Grace's willful daughter, Anne. Nicole Kidman turns in one of the most mesmerizing performances of her career in her depiction of Grace's downward spiral into madness.

A classic ghost story with a modern edge, The Others is essential Halloween viewing. The equal parts uncanny and intelligent script is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The stellar performances of the cast bring the story to haunting life. This Halloween get in touch with your spiritual side with The Others.

Classics: A Review of A Hunting Accident By Lauren Ennis

 Can innocence survive in a corrupted society? Can love remain pure in a tainted world? These are the questions that lie that the heart of the 1978 Soviet drama A Hunting Accident. Set against the backdrop of Imperial Russia the film captures the twilight of the czarist empire in all of its splendor and decay. Adapted from Anton Chekov's only full length novel this deceptively simple tale of love, lust, and ambition makes for both a compelling tragedy and a cautionary that continues to resonate today. Experience the passion, tragedy, and triumph of Russian drama in A Hunting Accident.

It's like rain on your wedding day...

The story begins in late 19th century Russia. Investigator Kamyshev retreats to the countryside to visit his friend, amiable but debauched Count Karneev. During their visit Kamyshev meets Karneev's neighbor, honest but humorless landowner Urbenin. Karneev reveals that he ahs been diagnosed with a terminal case of cirrhosis and told that he has mere months left to live. Rather than prepare for the inevitable, Karneev uses his illness as an excuse to treat Kamyshev to a series of parties, each more decadent than the last. In the midst of their revelry the trio come upon Olga, the daughter of Karneev's groundskeeper. Kamyshev is immediately struck by what he perceives as her innocence. To his dismay, he later learns that Olga is engaged to Urbenin. When he confronts her she admits that her impending marriage is one of convenience which she hopes will lift her out of poverty. Despite his warnings she goes through with the wedding as planned only to realize that her affections lie elsewhere. So begins a tumultuous love triangle that will set all three on a date with both destiny and disaster.

The film defies the stereotypes of Soviet cinema to relate a tale of love, loss, and desperation that transcends cultures. The love quadrangle between Olga and her suitors offers a timeless portrayal of the lengths to which we will go to pursue personal happiness regardless of the cost. The foibles of each character are all too human and remain startlingly relatable today. The film makes pointed critiques against the decadence and inequality of the czarist regime through its depiction of Karneev and Kamyshev's hedonism and Olga's increasingly desperate efforts to escape poverty. Even as it makes these critiques, however, the film never veers into propaganda. As a result, the story remains one that can be enjoyed around the world. The cinematography utilizes real life locations in rural Russia to breathtaking effect. The soundtrack transports viewers to a lost era, and its signature waltz by Eugen Doga more than earns its international acclaim. Together, the score and cinematography create a dream like atmosphere that leaves viewers with the sense that they are witnessing a modern fairy tale. Let yourself be swept off of your feet and fall under the tragic spell of A Hunting Accident.

So many suitors and so little time

The film transports viewers to Imperial Russia thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Leonid Markov infuses the thankless role of Urbenin with surprising humanity. Kirill Lavrov is delightfully debauched in his irreverent turn as Karneev. Oleg Yankovsky perfectly captures the downward spiral of Kamyshev from upstanding gentleman to ruthless criminal. Even in the midst of an outstanding cast Galina Belyayeva dominates the film in her dynamic turn as Olga in which she blends the innocence of Audrey Hepburn with the reckless abandon of Louise Brooks. Her performance is guaranteed to leave viewers every bit as beguiled, frustrated, and captivated as Olga's three suitors.

At once a scathing indictment of Czarist Russia and a universal tale of doomed love, A Hunting Accident continues to resonate across cultures and decades. The script brings Chekov's novel to vivid life as it takes viewers on a journey through the Russian countryside into the the darkest corners of the human heart. The stellar cast bring each of the characters to vibrant life in all of their complexity and contradictions. Lose yourself in the dance of love, loss, and tragedy that is A Hunting Accident.

The stuff that foreshadowing is made of

Classics: A Review of The Bridge to Terabithia By Lauren Ennis

School is where we learn many of our earliest lessons in life. It is where we first learn the academic and social skills that prepare us for the world beyond the classroom. School is also where we learn some of the most difficult lessons that shape our lives long after graduation. In 2007's family drama The Bridge to Terabithia eleven year old Jess learns vital lessons in friendship, imagination, and loss. For essential family viewing follow The Bridge to Terabithia.

The story begins in the rural Midwest, where Jess Aarons lives with his stern father, stressed mother, and four sisters. His artistic interests make him an outcast amongst his struggling family and he faces even more difficulty fitting in at school where he is regularly bullied. A burst of color enters his gray life in the form of his new neighbor, Leslie. Leslie is Jess' polar opposite in that where he struggles to fit in she relishes standing out. Through their shared outsider status the pair for an unlikely friendship. Together they create an elaborate fictional world in which they embark upon adventures of the imagination. Through the power of storytelling and the encouraging influence of Leslie he finds the courage to face his fears and accept himself. The magic of Terabithia is put to the ultimate test, however, when a tragedy occurs that shatters his view of the world and his place within it.

The film faithfully brings Katherine Patterson's beloved 1977 novel to inspiring and heartbreaking life. The script expertly balances between Jess and Leslie's daily lives the the fantasy world that they create to relate a compelling tale of the power of friendship and imagination. The ways in which the film deftly segues from events in the characters; real lives to the fantastic stories that those events inspire are particularly notable for their ability to highlight the film's themes while still advancing the plot. the film stands apart from most modern family films for its willingness to explore weighty themes such as isolation, guilt, and loss with unflinching honesty. By delving into Jess' grief the film allows young viewers a safe avenue through which to understand the concept of loss and/or process their own grief. As a result, the film offers young audiences lessons in love and loss that will continue to resonate as they grow up while still remaining family friendly. Even as it ventures into difficult topics the film still manages to offer entertaining adventures and inspiring lessons that will keep the whole family returning to Terabithia. 

The film brings both the American Midwest and the fantasy world of Terabithia to life thanks to stellar work of its cast. Bailee Madison is a delight as Jess' devoted younger sister, Maybelle. Lauren Clinton captures the outer brutality and inner wounded vulnerability of bully Janice Avery with subtle believability. Robert Patrick conveys the caring beneath the gruff exterior of Jess' stern father. Zooey Deschanel gives Michelle Pfeiffer a run for her money as Jess' inspiring music teacher, Miss Edmonds. Anna Sophia Robb infuses Leslie with a whimsy, charm, and daring that are nothing short of infectious. Josh Hutcherson portrays Jess' coming of age with a raw emotion and subtlety that belie his young hears. Together, Robb and Hutcherson invoke an optimism, innocence, and sense of wonder that will have viewers longing to return to their own childhood adventures.

At once a heartbreaking coming of age story and a testament to the creative spirit The Bridge to Terabithia captures both the magic of childhood and the pain of growing up. The script brilliantly adapts the tragedy of Patterson's novel without sacrificing its message of hope and resilience. The characters leap from the page to the screen thanks to the compelling work of the cast. Relive the adventure of growing up The Bridge to Terabithia.

If you enjoy this story of  imagination and friendship be sure to check out my screenplay Daughters of Attrition published by Off the Wall Plays 

https://offthewallplays.com/product/daughters-of-attrition-a-screenplay-about-a-girl-from-afghanistan/

Classics: A Review of The Count of Monte Cristo By Lauren Ennis

Is vengeance ever truly justified? Can justice ever really be attained? These are the questions that lie at the heart of 2002's The Count of Monte Cristo. The film brings Alexander Dumas' 1844  novel to vibrant life, transporting viewers into the heart of an epic saga of injustice, vengeance, and redemption.  For classic adventure swing into swashbuckling action with The Count of Monte Cristo.

The story begins in 1815 when sailors Edmund Dantes and Fernand Mondego are forced to seek medical aid for their ill captain. The pair make the desperate choice to come ashore on the heavily guarded island of Elba. In an twist of fate exiled emperor Napoleon Bonaparte convinces his guards to spare the pair and aid their captain. The crafty general then persuades illiterate Edmund to deliver a letter off of the island, promising that its contents are 'entirely innocent'. Edmund naively takes Bonaparte at his word and unbeknownst to him the conversation is overheard by Fernand. Upon returning home Edmund is promoted and becomes engaged to the beautiful Mercedes. Jealous of his friend's happiness, Fernand then goes to the police and informs them that Edmund delivered the letter for Bonaparte. When it is revealed that the letter contained plans for a coup to return Napoleon to power Edmund is imprisoned for treason. His friends and family are then forced to pick up the pieces of their lives, unaware that the supposed end of Edmund Dantes is just the beginning of the Count of Monte Cristo.

Upon the film's 2002 release critics and audiences agreed that it was an adventure the likes of which the phrase, 'they don't make 'em like that anymore' was made. Over twenty years later this sentiment has grown only more strong. In an era in which cinema is dominated by subverted expectations and self-aware irony The Count of Monte Cristo's old-fashioned sincerity is nothing short of refreshing. Rather than using this classic tale of injustice, revenge, and redemption to comment on modern life the film leaves the story to offer commentary on the issues of the day the film instead leaves the source material to speak for itself. In this way the film allows the story to revel in its universal appeal rather than limit it to a niche critique of our own world. The film's refusal to use its script to lecture at audience provides viewers with the opportunity to make their own connections to the work, ensuring a more personal and enriching viewing experience. The film also sets itself apart from its modern counterparts in its refusal to shy away from the emotion of Dumas' original novel. Whereas many modern movies makes their characters' emotions behind self-referential quips and ironic humor The Count of Monte Cristo wears its heart on its sleeve. In exploring Edmund's anguish, longing, and regret the film ensures that viewers will experience these emotions along with him. As a result, his ultimate triumph is that much more inspiring. The film additionally stands out for its expert use of filming locations and practical effects. Rather than relying upon green screen, the film instead utilizes period appropriate location shots. These  sets and locations immerse viewers into the world of nineteenth century France from its squalid prisons to its most opulent chateaus. Similarly, the inclusion of dazzling stunt work ensures that Edmund's journey is never less than thrilling. Combines, the effects and locations create a vibrant world of action and adventure which viewers will be hard-pressed to leave. Through its old-fashioned spirit of adventure The Count of Monte Cristo reminds modern viewers of what it means to be a classic.

The film transports viewers to the grit and glamor of nineteenth century France thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. James Frain personifies corruption as compromised prosecutor Villefort. Richard Harris is the mentor we all wish we could have had as Edmund's fellow prisoner, Abbe Faria. Luis Guzman steals each scene in which he appears as pirate turned ally Jacopo. Dagmara Dominczyck aptly blends charm, anguish, and resilience as Edmund's fiancée, Mercedes. Henry Cavill infuses Mercedes and Fernand's son, Albert, with youthful passion and boyish naivete. Guy Pearce is a villain that viewers will love to hate as envious and ruthless Fernand. Jim Cavezial turns in one of the best performances of his career as he takes viewers on Edmund's journey from naive boy to hardened, vengeful, man without missing a single step.

Over twenty years after its release The Count of Monte Cristo continues to dazzle with its epic tale the likes of which cinema was made for. Through its expertly written script the film remains true to the spirit of the original novel while still keeping modern audiences engaged. The stellar cast turn in performances that bring each of Dumas' characters to vibrant life. For an adventure the likes of which dreams, and the movies, were made for set sail with The Count of Monte Cristo. 

An Announcement

 Dear readers, thank you all for your continued support! I'm excited to share my latest project with all of you, my full length screenplay Daughters of Attrition which was just published with Off the Wall Plays. The screenplay's summary is as follows:

Ten year old Noor finds her world shattered after her father is killed while assisting in American operations against the Taliban. In the wake of her father’s death her mother is forced to send her to a Kabul orphanage until the family can secure a visa to the West. At the orphanage she finds solace in an unlikely friendship with artistic rebel Laila, and together the two discover the power of friendship and imagination. The harsh reality of the outside world soon finds its way into the orphanage as the Taliban enters the city changing the fate of the girls and Afghanistan forever. 

I look forward to continuing to share in the love of storytelling with you all.

https://offthewallplays.com/product/daughters-of-attrition-a-screenplay-about-a-girl-from-afghanistan/

Miss E.