This week we wrap up SFF reviewing Mistress Dispeller, Orwell: 2+2=5, Marlon Williams: Two Worlds – Ngā Ao E Rua, Farming the Revolution, Make it Look Real & How to Train Your Dragon. Interviews below…
—
Summary
Exciting Podcast Announcement
This week, live from the foyer reference household, we bring yet another sizzling announcement. Before diving into the news, we want to send our love and thanks to all our supporters, from the first episode of Black Panther to new members of the journey. Would you want to hear the audio of our first episode? Let’s just say, some memories are best left in the past.
Rotten Tomatoes Approval
Excitingly, our podcast became a Tomatometer approved publication in January 2023, and we recently received individual tomato critic approval! We’ve come a long way since our first episode in February 2019 and are honored to log our pool quotes independently.
So, whether it’s a new venture, like a K-drama podcast, rest assured we remain committed to the core of what makes this podcast special.
Sydney Film Festival Coverage
We’re rounding off our coverage of the Sydney Film Festival. Some films aren’t available in Australian cinemas yet, but we’ve had a fantastic lineup! Friends in America, don’t miss out on “Becoming a Guinea Fowl,” available on HBO Max. And now, let’s jump into the heart of our reviews.
Review Highlights
Mistress Dispeller
Liz Elizabeth Lowe’s “Mistress Dispeller” delivers an intense fly-on-the-wall experience. It’s a revealing portrait of love and betrayal in a surprisingly involved industry in China. Our discussions on this film sparked heartfelt reflections on relationships and the uncomfortably raw nature of certain truths.
Orwell 2 + 2 = 5
A documentary reflecting on the tragic relevance of George Orwell’s historical views today. Despite its quality, it raises questions about audience engagement and willingness to create change. It made KT ponder if such documentaries merely serve as ornamental discussions among well-meaning but stagnant viewers.
Marlon Williams: Two Worlds Naga
This film follows Marlon, a Maori musician, and his journey to create a Maori language album. While it offers insights into Marlon’s life and artistry, KT found it skimming the surface of potential depth regarding cultural and personal politics. A deeper dive into Marlon’s emotions and politics could have enriched the narrative.
Farming the Revolution
Nishta Jane’s documentary presents a compelling, ground-level view of farmer-led protests and the broader socio-political contexts at play. By framing these protests in terms of systemic issues, it emphasizes a fight not just against governmental neglect but also against overpowering capitalist structures.
Make It Look Real
Kate Blackmore’s “Make It Look Real” delves into the making of intimacy scenes within films, highlighting the critical role of intimacy coordinators in ensuring actor safety and agency. KT praised the clear, respectful approach to topics often handled clumsily in the industry, underscoring the ongoing need for sensitivity and care on set.
How to Train Your Dragon – Live Action
Lastly, the live-action “How to Train Your Dragon” captures the original’s heart, though not all beats land perfectly for every viewer. While OT loves the animated original, the live action’s pacing left some room for improvement.
Podcast Reflections and Recommendations
As the podcast continues to grow, the importance of our approval (both personal and for the podcast overall) feels intensely real and affirming. We thank our listeners for allowing us to explore, critique, and share with authenticity. Beyond our own work, we’re also eagerly tuning into South Park and commending Josh Johnson’s brilliant work on The Daily Show.
For those interested in diving deeper into cinema discourse, our Rotten Tomatoes-approved critiques touch on films like “Malcolm X,” “Monkey Man,” and “Judas and the Black Messiah.” Each piece reflects our unique voices and commitment to thoughtful film dialogue.
Signing Off
Thank you, friends and lovers, for joining us on this journey in the For Your Reference household. Keep tuning in for more reviews, lively debates, and podcast recommendations. We appreciate your support in this independent journey, and look forward to even more exciting discussions ahead. Find us on socials, or write us an email to connect. Until next week!