my big 4 on Letterboxd: a deep dive into my cinematic heart
if you’re curious about what makes up my cinematic soul, look no further than my big 4 on letterboxd. these four films aren’t just movies to me; they’re like different rooms in the house of my mind, each brimming with its own unique vibes and emotions. let’s dive into what makes each of these films a crucial part of my movie-watching experience.
The Shape of Water (2017) – Guillermo del Toro’s The Shape of Water is more than just a movie; it’s an immersive experience that draws you into a world where fairy tales and political allegory intertwine beautifully. set against the backdrop of the 1960s, this film tells the story of Elisa, a mute woman working as a cleaning lady in a top-secret government laboratory. her life changes dramatically when she discovers a mysterious amphibian creature being held captive. del Toro masterfully blends fantasy with reality, creating a rich, tactile atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and otherworldly. the romance between Elisa and the creature is tender and haunting, demonstrating that love can flourish even in the most unlikely circumstances. the film’s aesthetic is a visual feast, with its meticulous attention to detail and the lush, melancholic score by Alexandre Desplat (you might recognize his sound from [insert Wes Anderson movie here]) adding layers of emotional depth. The Shape of Water isn’t just a love story; it’s a powerful exploration of outsider status, human connection, and the courage to defy societal norms. del Toro’s ability to craft a fairy tale that’s both whimsical and profound makes this film a timeless masterpiece.
Phantom of the Paradise (1974) – Brian de Palma’s cinematic debut, Phantom of the Paradise, is a feverish, genre-blending spectacle that’s as chaotic as it is brilliant. this film is a heady mix of rock ‘n’ roll, horror, and satire, paying homage to classics like The Phantom of the Opera, Faust, and Dorian Gray. the story centers around Winslow Leach, an idealistic composer who is wronged by ruthless music producer, Swan, leading to his transformation into a vengeful phantom. de Palma’s direction is flamboyant and over-the-top, reflecting the film’s themes of artistic ambition and the dark side of fame. the film’s visual style is as extravagant as its plot, with its vibrant costumes and surreal set designs creating a psychedelic experience. Paul Williams’ soundtrack, featuring songs that range from glamorous rock anthems to haunting ballads, perfectly complements the film’s extravagant tone. Phantom of the Paradise is a cult classic that’s both a biting critique of the music industry and a celebration of the power of artistic expression. its blend of horror, humour, and musical elements makes it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Beau Is Afraid (2023) – Ari Aster’s Beau Is Afraid is an intense, surreal exploration of anxiety and self-doubt. the film follows Beau, a man plagued by a series of bizarre and unsettling events, as he navigates a nightmarish world that seems to reflect his deepest fears. Aster’s direction is both disorienting and brilliant, using surreal imagery and dark “humour” to create a palpable sense of dread. the film’s narrative is a rollercoaster of psychological terror and existential angst, with Joaquin Phoenix delivering a powerhouse performance as the troubled protagonist. Beau Is Afraid takes you on a journey through a labyrinth of fears and anxieties, blending elements of horror with a deep psychological exploration of its characters. the film’s ability to conjure a feeling of intense unease while also providing moments of darkly comic relief makes it a standout entry in the genre. it’s a film that challenges your perceptions and forces you to confront your own fears while indulging in a surreal, nightmarish adventure.
No Country for Old Men (2007) – the Coen Brothers’ No Country for Old Men is a stark, relentless examination of fate, morality, and the nature of evil. set in the desolate landscapes of west Texas, the film follows a man who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and takes off with a briefcase full of cash. this act sets off a chain of violent events, culminating in a chilling cat-and-mouse game with Anton Chigurh, a cold-blooded hitman with a unique moral code (and my personal blorbo). the film’s sparse dialogue and intense action sequences create an atmosphere of suspense that keeps you on edge throughout. Javier Bardem’s portrayal of Chigurh is both terrifying and mesmerizing, embodying the film’s themes of fate and inevitability. the Coen Brothers’ exploration of the erosion of traditional values in the face of modern brutality is both thought-provoking and haunting. No Country for Old Men is a powerful commentary on the nature of evil and the passage of time, offering a gripping narrative that’s as profound as it is suspenseful.
so there you have it: my big 4. each film represents a different facet of my cinematic taste, reflecting the diversity and depth of what I find compelling in movies. from fantastical romances and rock opera extravaganzas to surreal journeys and stark moral dramas, these films are my personal highlights, each leaving a unique mark on my movie-watching life. they capture the essence of what makes cinema such a rich and transformative experience, reminding me why I love it so much.
honourable mentions: movies that almost made the big 4
Prisoners (2013) – Denis Villeneuve’s Prisoners is a visceral, thought-provoking thriller that dives deep into the darkest aspects of human nature. the film’s narrative revolves around the abduction of two young girls and the subsequent unraveling of their families. Hugh Jackman delivers a powerhouse performance as Keller Doyle, a father driven to extremes in his search for his missing daughter. Jackman’s portrayal of a man grappling with desperation and moral ambiguity is both riveting and heartbreaking. Villeneuve’s direction crafts a taut, suspenseful atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge, with a narrative that challenges conventional notions of justice and retribution. the film’s exploration of the lengths one will go to for their loved ones raises profound questions about morality, sacrifice, and the nature of evil. Prisoners isn’t just a thriller; it’s a compelling study of human limits and the ethical dilemmas that arise when faced with the unimaginable.
Signs (2002) – M. Night Shyamalan’s Signs is a masterclass in blending science fiction with deeply personal and emotional storytelling. the film follows Graham Hess, a former priest played by Mel Gibson, as he and his family discover mysterious crop circles on their farm, leading to escalating tension and a search for answers. Shyamalan’s signature suspense is palpable throughout, building a slow-burning tension that culminates in a thought-provoking climax. the film’s exploration of faith, redemption, and the search for meaning in the face of existential threats is both poignant and profound. Shyamalan skillfully intertwines the supernatural with the deeply personal, creating a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Signs stands out not just for its thrilling moments but also for its exploration of belief and the impact of faith on the human condition, making it a memorable and impactful entry in the sci-fi genre. also this scene that has traumatized children everywhere.
Get Out (2017) – Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a groundbreaking film that blends horror with sharp social commentary, redefining the genre with its innovative approach. the story centers on Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a black man who uncovers a disturbing conspiracy during a visit to his girlfriend’s family estate. Peele’s direction and screenplay are both intelligent and unsettling, using horror as a lens to explore themes of racial tension, exploitation, and privilege. the film’s ability to intertwine satire with genuine fear makes it a unique and powerful experience. Get Out challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and identity while delivering a suspenseful and engaging narrative. its clever use of genre conventions to address serious social issues elevates it to a landmark film, offering a fresh perspective and leaving a lasting impact on both audiences and critics alike. I am currently in the middle of introducing my partner to Peele’s films, with us previously watching Nope and Us, and I can’t wait to show him Get Out.
Eyes Wide Shut (1999) – Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut is an enigmatic and provocative exploration of human desire, secrecy, and societal masks. the film follows Dr. William Harford (Tom Cruise) as he embarks on a journey into the hidden world of an elite society after his wife (Nicole Kidman) confides in him about a sexual fantasy. Kubrick’s meticulous craftsmanship is evident in every frame, creating an atmosphere of eerie tension and psychological complexity. the film delves into themes of sexuality, societal facades, and the nature of human relationships with a depth that is both unsettling and intriguing. Eyes Wide Shut challenges perceptions and invites viewers to question the nature of truth and illusion in their own lives. Kubrick’s vision, combined with the film’s rich, layered narrative, makes it a compelling and unforgettable cinematic experience, showcasing the director’s unparalleled ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion.
each of these honourable mentions offers a distinct and enriching cinematic experience, contributing to a broader appreciation of film. while they didn’t make it into my top four, they each bring something special to the table, enriching my understanding of storytelling and the power of cinema.
