Discover New Films and Celebrate Scorsese in Los Angeles
This week, Los Angeles showcases an impressive lineup of new films while also celebrating the legendary director Martin Scorsese through a unique retrospective. Filmgoers can look forward to several powerful new releases, including titles that have already made waves at festivals like Sundance.
The standout film, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” directed by Mary Bronstein, has garnered acclaim for its raw portrayal of motherhood and identity. Starring Rose Byrne as Linda, a mother grappling with her own struggles while caring for her ill daughter, the film has been described as one of the most impactful of the year. In his review, Glenn Whipp noted, “Linda makes dozens of bad decisions… until you realize just how utterly isolated she feels.” Byrne highlighted the difficulties of portraying such complex emotions, stating, “Anything dealing with motherhood and shame… these are pretty radical things to say.”
Another film making its debut is director Bill Condon‘s adaptation of “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” featuring performances from Diego Luna and Jennifer Lopez. The story revolves around two men imprisoned for political crimes in Argentina during the 1980s, with Lopez playing a fantasy film star who provides an escape into their imaginations. Tonatiuh, a breakout star from the film, expressed his excitement about working with Lopez, recalling, “I must have turned left on the wrong street because now I’m standing in front of her. How did this happen?”
This week’s offerings also include “Urchin,” the directorial debut of Harris Dickinson, and the documentary “Orwell: 2+2=5,” directed by Raoul Peck. Other notable films hitting theaters include Derek Cianfrance‘s true-crime comedy “Roofman,” Kathryn Bigelow‘s nuclear-war thriller “A House of Dynamite,” and Luca Guadagnino‘s campus drama “After the Hunt.”
Celebrating Scorsese with a Retrospective
The American Cinematheque is hosting a retrospective dedicated to Rebecca Miller, featuring a preview of her documentary series “Mr. Scorsese.” The series, which premieres on October 17 on Apple TV+, offers a deep dive into Scorsese’s life and career, featuring interviews with the director himself as well as insights from collaborators like Robert De Niro and Thelma Schoonmaker.
Miller will introduce her 2023 romantic comedy “She Came to Me,” starring Anne Hathaway and Peter Dinklage, during the event. She expressed her gratitude for the honor of having her work recognized, sharing, “It feels like such an honor… but then you realize, no, I’ve been making these films for 30 years.” The retrospective will also screen Miller’s notable works, including “Maggie’s Plan” and “The Ballad of Jack and Rose.”
In a recent conversation, Miller discussed her exploration of Scorsese’s complex relationship with themes of violence and spirituality in his films. “What interested you in Scorsese as a subject?” she was asked. Miller responded, noting his honesty in confronting dark moments in his life, such as his struggles with addiction. “He seemed very happy and settled in his personal life and yet he still makes something like “Killers of the Flower Moon,” full of passion and fire,” she remarked.
Thematic Double Feature at New Beverly
In an innovative programming choice, the New Beverly Cinema is presenting a double bill featuring John Carpenter‘s “They Live” and “Josie and the Pussycats.” Despite their differing genres, both films explore the theme of consumer culture and control.
“They Live,” released in 1988, stars Roddy Piper as a drifter uncovering an alien invasion disguised as humans. The film satirizes consumerism and societal complacency, which resonates even today. Similarly, “Josie and the Pussycats,” released in 2001, critiques the music industry and corporate influence, showcasing how innocence can be manipulated for profit.
As film enthusiasts flock to theaters this week, they can expect to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of storytelling that spans various genres and themes. Whether experiencing the emotional depths of new narratives or celebrating the legacy of Scorsese, Los Angeles promises an exciting cinematic experience for all.
