Bloom Wu

Barbenheimer is deemed this year's biggest cinematic event, and the two distinct films have both exceeded my personal expectations. More than I hoped for- Oppenheimer is a gripping, intense psychological drama. While not for the faint of heart and sometimes hard to watch, it is sure a film that is to change our modern cinematic Hollywood landscape. Oppenheimer's striking, unique filmmaking techniques, effects, and cinematography leaves viewers in awe or shock while truthfully aiding in the storytelling. Although the storytelling and structure is non-linear, I found it not too difficult to follow along to and carefully and cleverly crafted. The sound design of the film is phenomenal and sometimes unexpected (in a remarkably sensational way that shifts perspectives of events). Ludwig Göransson's soundtrack was absolutely essentially to the dramatization of the story and events. The stellar screenplay and performances truly shined through Nolan's insane direction of the film. Although the first act felt a bit slow at times, I was blown away by the film at the end and was left wanting more, hoping it would not end. Oppenheimer revealed more depth than I imagined by exploring the leading character's moral dilemmas and the effects of the political landscape at the time. While not necessarily for all ages or types of audiences, Oppenheimer is fresh, absorbing, notable, and must be seen in the theaters on the big screen.

I never had high expectations for the film due to the number of just-okay films that have come out this past year, but Greta never disappoints- Lady Bird, Little Women, and now Barbie! The movie is surely a Gerwig classic. It is amazing how the outright un-serious, campy film is able to tackle such serious and complicated real-world issues. Naturally, there is a satirical exaggeration of society to convey the point of the story but was executed with a conceptually clever approach. The writing carried witty humor, strong character development, and heartfelt experiences- all shined ever so brightly with the array of superb performances. Margot Robbie's performance throughout the film revealed the depth of such a character that can often be seen as superficial. The same can be said for Ryan Gosling's Ken. (SPOILERS) It is clear that everything Ken has done to Barbieland ("bringing patriarchy") was in a way to shape his own sense of identity and self worth, what he feels he often lacks in Barbieland. The film features a multitude of well-known actors that portray a great deal of what a Barbie can be. The set and costumes bring viewers the nostalgia of their childhoods and how this life in a Barbie dream house (and her clothes) were extremely coveted by young girls. On the other hand, it shows how Barbieland is not all it is thought out to be. I was pleasantly surprised at how the dance numbers were reminiscent of old Hollywood sound-stage musicals that we never really see anymore. This film review would not be complete without an honorable mention to America Ferrera's performance. Her monologue's feminist themes are reminiscent of Saorise Ronan's monologue from Little Women. It was delivered at just the right pacing and intensity, resonating with audiences. While the message is not at all new, many women especially feel heard. The film does a wonderful job of blending the inclusive comedy with previous or subsequent scenes that make viewers tear up- the simultaneous laughing and crying sort. Overall, "Barbie" is a fun, glittery, social commentary satire about female identity; the feminism of hyperfemininity, authenticity, and community; and what it means to be human in our messed-up, chaotic world. For the Gerwig fans, Barbie lovers, Barbie haters, and everyone else, go watch Barbie.