25. CAPOTE (2005)
This is a terrific film. There’s something bewitching in Philip Seymour Hoffman’s performance, which never descends into mimicry, as easy as that would have been. And then there’s nuanced presentation of the plot, which isn’t what it appears to be at first. Great stuff.
Verdict: Highly recommended.
26. BLACK NARCISSUS (1947)
A bunch of nuns are sent to an exotic locale to set up a school for the natives, with predictable results. However the story, slim as it is, is handled so well, with such good performers, artful visuals, and beautiful production values that you’ll walk away believing there’s more to it than there actually is.
Verdict: Definitely recommended
27. AWAY (2019)
A years-long labor of love of one man, Gints Zilbalodis, this is a moving, thoughtful, harrowing, amusing, meditative movie about…that’s kind of up to you. To me, it was about life’s journey, and the inevitability of death, and our spirit’s ability to rise above it. Your mileage may vary: you may find that for you, it’s about something completely different. It’s that kind of movie.
Verdict: Stays with you long after it ends. I need to see it a couple more times. This has Hall of Fame potential.