Oscar-Nominated Film Series: Her

This is the second post in a series on Oscar-nominated films.

The film Her touches on some very sensitive points. Through the guise of a touching love story and heartbreak, it makes poignant commentary on society’s ever-growing reliance on technology. In today’s society, we are reliant on technology for everything, from directions to entertainment. In Spike Jonze’s story, humanity is finally dependent upon technology for love. Well, not dependent, but, what can I say — the man fell in love with an operating system, which is frighteningly similar to Siri. The story follows the trials and tribulations of a man trying to understand his feelings and coping with being in love with an OS.

Many people have said that the film is a beautifully made. Shimmery light fills the lens when Samantha (the OS) and Theodore share a magical romantic moment. This story is highly original. In a cinematic landscape in which almost every movie is an adaptation or sequel, it is refreshing to see something so…fresh. Of course this film would be nominated for an Oscar. It wowed the Academy because they have something that they weren’t expecting. Additionally, Joaquin Phoenix carries the heavy burden of this film on his heartbroken shoulders.

My personal preference is for happy movies, and this one is not. It does have its moments of joy and its moments of sadness…much like a real relationship. Although this would not be classified as a happy film, it does have a cathartic ending.

If you want to see a completely original film and don’t mind crying a bit while thinking very deep thoughts, go see Her. It might win an Oscar; it might not. No matter what happens, it still makes a pointed remark on the direction of society’s dependence on technology.

Oscar-Nominated Film Series: American Hustle

This is the first post in a series on Oscar-nominated films.

(c) Digital Spy

Ah, American Hustle. The story of an embezzling couple, a government agent, New Jersey politicians, a slightly unhinged wife, and a complicated scheme. Oh, and lots of cleavage. And interesting hairdos. American Hustle has been nominated for a grand total of ten nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and others.

I think I am going to be the person with the unpopular opinion: I did not think that American Hustle was that great. It unfortunately did not sustain my undivided attention throughout the film. The exposition of the film was compelling, as it introduced the characters, who seemed to be interesting and complex. I also found that the climax and conclusion of the film was engaging, yet  I felt that the main story of the film dragged on. During some of the slower scenes in the film, my mind wandered…did I get any new emails? I found myself caring less about the storyline, and more about seeing how the characters interacted with each other in their own colorful world.

I should give the film some credit, though; the performances by the actors in the film were very good. I found myself anxiously awaiting for Amy Adams or Jennifer Lawrence to appear on screen, as I love me some leading ladies.

Overall, would I give American Hustle the Oscar for Best Picture? Probably not. I wouldn’t have the urge to check Facebook and Twitter for an Oscar-winning Best Picture.