Letterboxd - alewatchesfilms https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/ Letterboxd - alewatchesfilms Stuart: A Life Backwards, 2007 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/stuart-a-life-backwards/4/ letterboxd-review-592387897 Mon, 13 May 2024 15:38:16 +1200 2024-05-12 Yes Stuart: A Life Backwards 2007 5.0 50032

I usually never watch the ending cause it hurts too much but I needed the cry tonight. I find it fascinating that sometimes comfort comes from pain.

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alewatchesfilms
Aliens, 1986 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/aliens/ letterboxd-review-592237120 Mon, 13 May 2024 11:38:03 +1200 2024-05-12 No Aliens 1986 4.0 679

Newt might be the first kid in cinematic history that didn’t annoy me. 

Btw, thank you so much for 1K followers💞 i appreciate having this space so much. i’ve met incredible people and feel so validated and understood. it feels nice to be a part of something🫶🏻 thank u for being so kind and reading all the nonsense i write🤍 


and if we’re not friends yet, pls feel free to talk to me as if we’ve known each other forever, i’m quite shy but i do love talking w people here🧚🏼

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Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, 2024 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/kingdom-of-the-planet-of-the-apes/ letterboxd-review-591668595 Sun, 12 May 2024 15:12:10 +1200 2024-05-11 No Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes 2024 3.0 653346

i would really like to know if cockroaches exist in this universe. i mean, they probably do, those things survive everything. but i’m curious.

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War for the Planet of the Apes, 2017 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/war-for-the-planet-of-the-apes/ letterboxd-review-591533917 Sun, 12 May 2024 11:16:46 +1200 2024-05-11 No War for the Planet of the Apes 2017 4.5 281338

how the hell do they always get horses?

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In Bruges, 2008 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/in-bruges/1/ letterboxd-review-591066511 Sat, 11 May 2024 15:37:57 +1200 2024-05-10 Yes In Bruges 2008 5.0 8321

I think I’m gonna tell my psychiatrist to watch this film because it explains better how my brain works

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Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, 2014 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/dawn-of-the-planet-of-the-apes/ letterboxd-review-590935703 Sat, 11 May 2024 11:10:11 +1200 2024-05-10 No Dawn of the Planet of the Apes 2014 3.5 119450

I thought I was going to like this way more than I did. I liked Rise better. 

The first hour was really slow for my liking. I understand they were trying to build a relationship between apes and humans, but maybe it took more time than it should have. Also, the plot was too predictable. 

The movie feels like two separate parts, which is not necessarily bad, but I liked the tone of the second half way better. I think my problem is really with Matt Reeves, but that's a personal issue, so don't mind it.

On the positive side, Jason Clarke and Gary Oldman look so hot.

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Rise of the Planet of the Apes, 2011 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/rise-of-the-planet-of-the-apes/ letterboxd-review-590456579 Fri, 10 May 2024 13:06:48 +1200 2024-05-09 No Rise of the Planet of the Apes 2011 4.0 61791

You take Draco out of Slytherin, not Slytherin out of Draco

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alewatchesfilms
Planet of the Apes, 1968 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/planet-of-the-apes/ letterboxd-review-590334062 Fri, 10 May 2024 08:49:54 +1200 2024-05-09 No Planet of the Apes 1968 4.0 871

“-You’re afraid of me and you hate me. Why?
-Because you’re a man.”

He’s got a point.

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alewatchesfilms
Ready or Not, 2019 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/ready-or-not-2019/ letterboxd-review-589937612 Thu, 9 May 2024 13:26:22 +1200 2024-05-08 No Ready or Not 2019 3.0 567609

Hello my name is (Grace)
Nice to meet you
I think you're famous, where have I seen you?
You'll be my William, I'll be your Kate
Livin' like a fairytale

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alewatchesfilms
In the Name of the Father, 1993 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/in-the-name-of-the-father-1993/ letterboxd-review-589819666 Thu, 9 May 2024 09:13:13 +1200 2024-05-08 No In the Name of the Father 1993 5.0 7984

Intense, poignant, and frightening. I finished it with tears in my eyes. The film features exceptional performances, a compelling score, and a powerful script. There's a before and after version of me after watching this film.

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Foreign Correspondent, 1940 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/foreign-correspondent/ letterboxd-review-589696587 Thu, 9 May 2024 04:40:53 +1200 2024-05-08 No Foreign Correspondent 1940 4.5 25670

"Foreign Correspondent" might be one of Hitchcock’s most underrated works.

The runtime is executed perfectly; every single second is used and there for a reason. Incredible special (and practical) effects for the time this was released. It still holds up. You get mystery, with action, chasing sequences, love, and tension. And very smart and subtle humor. You get absolutely everything in here.

Yes, it’s a propaganda film, but it’s so well done that you can totally go past that and appreciate it as the masterclass in filmmaking it is.

Hitchcock ranked

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alewatchesfilms
The Man Who Would Be King, 1975 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-man-who-would-be-king/ letterboxd-review-589413325 Wed, 8 May 2024 13:31:05 +1200 2024-05-07 No The Man Who Would Be King 1975 3.0 983

"The Man Who Would Be King" is a captivating tale centered on two Englishmen embarking on an adventure to rule over Kafiristan, delving deep into themes of ambition and power, while keeping a fun and interesting narrative.

Michael Caine and Sean Connery have excellent chemistry, nonetheless, I would have enjoyed it more if the pacing hadn't felt so draggy, and if the runtime could've been reduced, especially during the slow introduction.

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alewatchesfilms
Abigail, 2024 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/abigail-2024/ letterboxd-review-589326672 Wed, 8 May 2024 10:14:37 +1200 2024-05-07 No Abigail 2024 4.5 1111873

I was really excited for this one and I'm gladly satisfied. I think my biggest problem with modern horror films is that they don’t pick a side: is it horror filled with countless cliché jump scares or is it humor with a cheap and cringey script? But "Abigail" is the exception. The tone for the movie is set since the beginning and makes it a very enjoyable watch. 

Melissa Barrera does a great job and takes the movie on her shoulders, but I want to highlight my two favorites: Dan Stevens and Alisha Weir. Dan’s presence and performance are great. He helps the movie feel more firm and his charisma just makes everything *spicy*, if you know what I mean. He improvised a lot of his lines and you can tell how comfortable he was in his role. (And hear me out, him saying “bite me” and then covert in blood did something to me). 

Alisha Weir proves once again the star she is, she’s so talented and was able to hold her stand and presence even in a room with people more experienced than her. She’s so young but so powerful and versatile. The turn between Abigail and vampire Abigail is so neat. She got the elegance and the fierce energy. She was doing ballet, wearing contacts, wearing teeth, doing another accent and she even had different tones for regular Abby and psycho Abby. And she’s 14 (even younger when this was shot). She’s so committed and talented and I’m always happy to see her on screen, I hope she continues having a great career and recognition because she deserves it.

Overall, I really enjoyed the movie. Maybe the introduction could’ve been a bit faster but nothing too bad to affect my enjoyment. I loved how gory it was and they got to avoid the predictability, which I was scared for a second but I think they nailed it.

Also, huge respect for filming the majority of this on location. It was an actual house in Ireland and a lot of the effects and stunts were practical and well done.

2024 Ranked 🩸

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Scarecrow, 1973 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/scarecrow/ letterboxd-review-589242349 Wed, 8 May 2024 07:33:20 +1200 2024-05-07 No Scarecrow 1973 4.5 31587

"Scarecrow" tells a poignant tale of friendship between two men who couldn't be more different. Francis and Max, portrayed brilliantly by Al Pacino and Gene Hackman, form an unlikely bond that becomes the heart of the film.

Their friendship begins when Francis offers light to Max, and from there, their chemistry shines through, making it one of my favorite friendships in cinema. Francis is the eternal optimist, while Max is the angry pessimist, but together they find a balance that is both heartwarming and necessary.

Yet, despite its focus on friendship, "Scarecrow" is a profoundly sad story. It's the type of sadness that comes from the everyday struggles of life, where nothing particularly tragic happens, but the weight of existence itself is felt deeply. As Francis and Max navigate their way through life, the film captures the bittersweet beauty of their journey.

With remarkable performances and unforgettable scenes, "Scarecrow" has earned its place as a new favorite, leaving a lasting impression on me.

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The Garfield Movie, 2024 - ★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-garfield-movie/ letterboxd-review-588892546 Tue, 7 May 2024 13:33:58 +1200 2024-05-06 No The Garfield Movie 2024 2.0 748783

Remember Dante from Coco? You'll never believe what he looks like now!

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The Offence, 1973 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-offence/ letterboxd-review-588853613 Tue, 7 May 2024 12:03:05 +1200 2024-05-06 No The Offence 1973 3.5 32615

"The Offence" is a gripping journey into darkness and unease. The film delves deep into Johnson's internal struggles and the disturbing depths of his psyche.

Over the years, Johnson's inner demons have festered, consuming him until he can no longer ignore their presence. His role as an officer, witnessing the worst of humanity and delving into the minds of suspects, has taken its toll, stirring unsettling thoughts within him.

Sidney Lumet's masterful touch is evident. There’s a lot of attention in subtle details, like Johnson's clumsy actions after the interrogation.

Overall, "The Offence" defies expectations of a typical detective film, leaning more towards psychological horror. While I wished it had delved even deeper into darkness, it remains a compelling piece nonetheless.

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Zulu, 1964 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/zulu/ letterboxd-review-588138616 Mon, 6 May 2024 11:05:21 +1200 2024-05-05 No Zulu 1964 4.0 14433

Zulus were multiplying at a gremlin's speed

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Greed, 1924 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/greed/ letterboxd-review-587896339 Mon, 6 May 2024 06:20:12 +1200 2024-05-05 No Greed 1924 4.5 1405

"Greed" is a timeless masterpiece that delves deep into the corrupting influence of money and power. Through McTeague's story, the film poignantly illustrates how the pursuit of wealth can consume one's soul, leaving nothing but emptiness and despair in its wake.

What struck me most about this film was its haunting portrayal of the human condition. The characters are driven by their desires, blinded to the consequences of their actions until it's too late. It's a reminder of the fragility of the human spirit and the dangers of ambition.

The film's ending is nothing short of powerful. It's a poignant reflection that true happiness cannot be bought with riches, and that the pursuit of wealth often leads to ruin.

The themes talked in this film are as relevant today as they were a century ago, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of finding fulfillment beyond material wealth.

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Exhuma, 2024 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/exhuma/ letterboxd-review-587420069 Sun, 5 May 2024 13:54:31 +1200 2024-05-04 No Exhuma 2024 4.0 838209

"Exhuma" was a captivating experience for me. It held my interest throughout, even though I didn't grasp everything completely.

I'll admit, I had to turn to Google for some explanations afterward, as I'm not very familiar with Korean/Japanese folklore, legends, and lore. Despite this, the film still resonated with me remarkably well, even if I didn't understand every detail.

The pacing was spot-on, and the performances were solid. I appreciate horror films that prioritize a smart plot over cheap jump scares and cliches, and Exhuma delivered in this regard. The plot twists were ingenious, keeping me guessing until the very end.

2024 Ranked

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alewatchesfilms
The Thin Red Line, 1998 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-thin-red-line/ letterboxd-review-587271164 Sun, 5 May 2024 10:11:54 +1200 2024-05-04 No The Thin Red Line 1998 4.5 8741

"The Thin Red Line" is a cinematic gem that delves deep into the human experience against the backdrop of nature's majesty. The cinematography captures the beauty and intricacy of the natural world, blending it seamlessly with the story.

Terrence Malick's profound respect for nature is evident throughout his film, as he skillfully intertwines the themes of human insignificance and the interconnectedness of all life. In this film, the contrast between the lush, tranquil jungle and the chaos and violence of war underscores the difference between humanity's destructive tendencies and nature's peaceful indifference.

The movie's philosophical ponderings on the fleeting nature of life and the cycle of birth and death resonates deeply, prompting us to contemplate our humble position in the cosmos. As the characters grapple with the brutality of war, Malick encourages the audience to reflect on the inherent contradictions of human existence and our capacity for both love and destruction.

"The Thin Red Line" serves as a poignant reminder of the splendor and vulnerability of life. It is a testament to Malick's mastery of his craft and his talent for evoking deep emotional and philosophical insights through his storytelling.

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alewatchesfilms
Godzilla Minus One, 2023 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/godzilla-minus-one/ letterboxd-review-586559328 Sat, 4 May 2024 10:21:20 +1200 2024-05-03 No Godzilla Minus One 2023 4.5 940721

GODZILLA +10000000000

I’d be so embarrassed if I was one of the filmmakers of the other godzilla movies

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Turtles All the Way Down, 2024 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/turtles-all-the-way-down/ letterboxd-review-585947546 Fri, 3 May 2024 09:51:13 +1200 2024-05-02 No Turtles All the Way Down 2024 3.5 574451

I’m writing this as the book is right in front of me on my bookshelf. I read Turtles All the Way Down when I was around 16-17, and it had a huge impact on me as I related to and felt seen through Aza’s character. Those were difficult times for me as I didn’t understand what was going on in my head. I always knew something was different, but up until that moment, I hadn’t sought mental health help.

Davis quotes in the book a line from Robert Frost that became my favorite thing for years: “In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on.” That kept me going for a long time, always realizing that no matter how terrible the thought spirals were, life kept moving forward.

Now, let’s talk about the movie. Obviously, there was a lot of expectation for me going in, as I said this book holds a special value for me, and I think overall it was a very good adaptation. A few plot decisions were changed but were mostly minimal, so I’m not really mad at it.

I think my only complaint is the tone of the film. I know it’s probably very hard to translate words into images, so I want to acknowledge the good job they did, but I still wished the movie would’ve felt a lot more like the last 35 minutes did. The book is really deep and sometimes even triggering. The representation of anxiety and OCD that John Green achieves through words in the book is terrifyingly accurate. I remember I even had to stop reading sometimes because I could relate so much, and Aza’s spirals would get me into my own spirals, but I like how true it is. It is supposed to be uncomfortable because that’s how it feels.

In the book, there’s a deeper exploration of Aza’s obsessive-compulsive tendencies. They’re always present, overwhelming, every subject or situation would drive her into her obsession with bacteria. The movie keeps it at a surface level, so sometimes it could feel more like a young adult romance type of thing rather than the actual disorder, and Aza can come off a little like a burden because you don’t get to see how messed up it actually is. The character in the movie should have been explored more deeply, as the portrayal can come across as very stereotypical, which doesn't fully capture the complexity of OCD.

I wish they would’ve gone deeper and rawer into the matter, but regardless, the script keeps a lot of the original source, which I truly appreciate.

I recommend watching it, but also you should definitely give the book a read.

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The Idea of You, 2024 - ★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-idea-of-you-2024/ letterboxd-review-585774414 Fri, 3 May 2024 03:52:27 +1200 2024-05-02 No The Idea of You 2024 1.5 843527

This is what Aaron Taylor-Johnson thinks his relationship looks like

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Civil War, 2024 - ★★★★★ (contains spoilers) https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/civil-war-2024/1/ letterboxd-review-585717540 Fri, 3 May 2024 01:17:01 +1200 2024-05-01 Yes Civil War 2024 5.0 929590

This review may contain spoilers.

I decided to double feature The Fall Guy and Civil War, this being my second time watching Civil War, but it felt like the first time.

I can’t talk enough about this film. There are so many technical aspects that were done so meticulously and take it to another level.

I think a lot of people would agree that Jesse Plemons’ scene is really the high point of the film, but for me, there are also two vital points in the story: the Twilight Zone and the Winter Wonderland.

The clever parallels in the Twilight Zone scene are one of my favorite aspects of the film. The sound of guns being changed into the sprinklers in the gardens. The red color, representing blood, is only present here on plants. The critique that sequence has into how we decide to look away when there’s conflict is uncomfortably accurate.

The Winter Wonderland scene holds the answer to the main question of the movie: why are they fighting? Nobody knows; they are just trying to kill somebody who's trying to kill them. I guess there’s a point where war stops being about sides and turns into survival, taking away completely the humanity from people and forcing them to get involved, drowning them in all that hatred.

This is also a very crucial point for Jesse's character. Early on, Lee tells her she needs to stop questioning things and just do her job, otherwise, it would drive her insane. In that scene with the shooters, the dynamic changes; Joel is the one asking questions, and Jessie is completely drawn into shooting, completely oblivious of the right or wrong of the situation. Lee starts realizing that, and that’s where she starts struggling because maybe she’s witnessing and remembering the moment when she herself got lost into it.

Lee’s anxiety and PTSD, represented by that kaleidoscope-like lens, is truly one of my favorite things. There’s a scene in the shop when she’s trying on a dress, and you can see her reflection twice in the mirror, one being her human self and the other with the kaleidoscope aura, two sides of the same person, an empathetic one and a fractured one, both living together and shaping who she is.

In the final shot of Jessie, we see her now with that filter; she turned into the war photographer she wanted to be, and the fragile girl that we met at the beginning is completely gone.

The connection, loop, tangle between Lee and Jessie’s character is absolutely amazing. It’s like seeing into the past and the future. Alex Garland's writing is really spectacular, and he absolutely nailed it. One of my favorite character dynamics and explorations ever.

It’s kinda weird to say that I want to keep watching it because it’s heavy on the heart, but I’m always eager to watch it again and keep catching all those details that make this into the masterpiece it is.

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The Fall Guy, 2024 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-fall-guy-2024/ letterboxd-review-585700913 Fri, 3 May 2024 00:23:44 +1200 2024-05-01 No The Fall Guy 2024 4.5 746036

I think we should just cast Ryan Gosling in every single thing.

I was really looking forward to watching this because I loved Bullet Train, and I love Ryan Gosling. The expectations were high, and they were surpassed.

I don’t want to take credit away from the incredible job everyone did on this film, but I really think it wouldn’t have worked the way it did without Ryan. His comedic timing and his charisma are what make this movie. He’s absolutely amazing in this. I really admire how committed he is to all of his roles; he goes completely free into them and owns them.

Emily Blunt is also remarkable. The chemistry she has with Ryan is totally on point. There were moments where you could totally tell they were improvising, and that connection they have is magical.

Lastly, for the cast, I would also like to mention Stephanie Hsu. Even though she’s not on screen for a long time, Stephanie has a magnetic ring around her. The second she’s on screen, you can feel how powerful of a performer she is, and I’m so happy she got to be in this. I’m always looking forward to seeing her in more movies.

The technical aspects are amazing too. Director David Leitch feels definitely more confident, and his growth is clear. The cinematography was great, and the camera work had some refreshing, ambitious elements. The soundtrack also plays a huge element in the film, setting the tone and helping the story move forward.

I’m really happy with this film; I enjoyed it and laughed so much, and I can totally see it becoming a frequent rewatch for me.

2024 Ranked

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Mamma Mia!, 2008 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/mamma-mia/ letterboxd-review-585121836 Thu, 2 May 2024 03:08:56 +1200 2024-05-01 Yes Mamma Mia! 2008 5.0 11631

On July 18th 2008, the best film of the decade was released in cinemas.

Oh, and "The Dark Knight" came out that day too.

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Chariots of Fire, 1981 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/chariots-of-fire/ letterboxd-review-584812036 Wed, 1 May 2024 13:09:25 +1200 2024-04-30 No Chariots of Fire 1981 3.0 9443

"Chariots of Fire" offers a gripping portrayal of the relentless pursuit of excellence amidst personal pressures, unwavering dedication, and profound sacrifices. Through the real-life narratives of Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell, the film delves into the complexities of their journeys as they navigate the competitive world of running.

Adding depth to the narrative are the religious convictions that shape the decisions and actions of some characters, enriching the storyline with themes of faith and conviction. Eric Liddell's unwavering devotion to his religious beliefs, even at the expense of his athletic career, highlights the interplay between personal conviction and external pressures.

However, the pacing of the film can be uneven, with a slow start and intermittent slowdowns that disrupt the flow of the narrative.

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Ryan's Daughter, 1970 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/ryans-daughter/ letterboxd-review-584272725 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:57:20 +1200 2024-04-29 No Ryan's Daughter 1970 4.0 38953

One of the most visually stunning films I’ve ever watch. 

The film is set in a remote village in Ireland during the early 20th century and follows the story of Rosy Ryan, who enters into an adulterous affair with a British officer. 

"Ryan's Daughter" is really about how war can mess  everything up, especially when it comes to love. It shows how people become pawns in a bigger game of power, losing touch with their humanity in the process. The movie is a reminder of how war can tear apart relationships and rob people of their dignity and freedom.

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Love Lies Bleeding, 2024 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/love-lies-bleeding-2024/ letterboxd-review-584130545 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:22:28 +1200 2024-04-29 No Love Lies Bleeding 2024 3.5 948549

That’s what they call a big ending

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Parents, 1989 - ★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/parents/ letterboxd-review-583619558 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:07:55 +1200 2024-04-28 No Parents 1989 2.5 27607

They somehow managed to make 80 minutes feel like 4 hours

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Buffaloed, 2019 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/buffaloed/ letterboxd-review-583156259 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 01:53:32 +1200 2024-04-28 No Buffaloed 2019 5.0 547012

The Wolf of Wall Street but interesting

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Kill Bill: Vol. 1, 2003 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/kill-bill-vol-1/ letterboxd-review-582813003 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 12:54:46 +1200 2024-04-27 No Kill Bill: Vol. 1 2003 4.0 24

Me right after saying I don’t hold grudges

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The Black Phone, 2021 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/the-black-phone/ letterboxd-review-582730971 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:45:08 +1200 2024-04-27 No The Black Phone 2021 3.0 756999

Is being stupid a requirement for being kidnapped?

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Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler, 1922 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/dr-mabuse-the-gambler/ letterboxd-review-582049736 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 10:35:57 +1200 2024-04-26 No Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler 1922 3.0 5998

Well, that’s one way to psychoanalyze people

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Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, 1966 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/whos-afraid-of-virginia-woolf/ letterboxd-review-581881567 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 05:16:00 +1200 2024-04-26 No Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? 1966 5.0 396

Who’s afraid of little old Virginia Woolf? You should be. 

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An American Werewolf in London, 1981 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/an-american-werewolf-in-london/ letterboxd-review-581542370 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:37:35 +1200 2024-04-25 No An American Werewolf in London 1981 3.5 814

The undead sound very similar to the voices in my head

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Amadeus, 1984 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/amadeus/ letterboxd-review-581450151 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:37:39 +1200 2024-04-25 No Amadeus 1984 4.5 279

Team Salieri all the way, Mozart was annoying as hell

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RockNRolla, 2008 - ★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/rocknrolla/ letterboxd-review-581005265 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:54:00 +1200 2024-04-24 No RockNRolla 2008 3.0 13809

Tom Hardy.

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Sleepaway Camp, 1983 - ★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/sleepaway-camp/ letterboxd-review-580938069 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:47:41 +1200 2024-04-24 No Sleepaway Camp 1983 2.5 13567

what the actual hell did i just watch

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28 Days Later, 2002 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/28-days-later/4/ letterboxd-review-580557139 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:26:09 +1200 2024-04-23 Yes 28 Days Later 2002 5.0 170

Now I'm down bad, cryin' at the Jim
Everything comes out teenage petulance
Fuck it if I can't have him

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Monkey Man, 2024 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/monkey-man/ letterboxd-review-580441373 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 09:05:42 +1200 2024-04-23 No Monkey Man 2024 5.0 560016

Dev Patel, you are a gift to the world. Wow.

I can’t believe this is his directorial debut. If this is what he does on his first-ever film, I can’t imagine what he’ll do with a few more years of experience.

Described as “John Wick in Mumbai”, but this is what John Wick wanted to be.

Everything here is amazing, from the performances to the script, the incredible cinematography, and camera work. Not to mention the stunts and the choreographed action sequences.

There's an action sequence during the second act that lasts about 20 minutes and left me completely speechless. I haven’t seen action done like that in a movie in a while. The buildup is perfect, maintaining the rhythm, and when it ends, it balances perfectly, knowing how to slow down without being anticlimactic. Creating that flow is so important.

The pacing is great, utilizing the entire runtime perfectly and creating amazing character development.

I can’t believe this was initially going straight to Netflix. The lack of trust executives had in this project is shocking and proves once again that they have no idea what they’re doing. Cinema is not dead; the heads of the studios are killing it.

I’m so glad it had the theatrical release it deserved. This is one of my favorite movies of the year so far.

2024 Ranked 🫶🏻

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alewatchesfilms
Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, 1983 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/merry-christmas-mr-lawrence/ letterboxd-review-579996741 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:19:08 +1200 2024-04-22 No Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence 1983 4.0 11948

“You are the victim of men who think they are right... Just as one day you and captain Yonoi believed absolutely that you were right. And the truth is of course that nobody is right...“

"Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence" is a powerful film about human nature, homosexuality oppression and the impact of war. The film's cinematography, along with the beautiful score and great performances create a really immersive experience.

The story is set in a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. It follows the relationships between the Japanese camp commander and British prisoners, Jack Celliers (David Bowie) and John Lawrence (Tom Conti).

"Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence" is more than just a war film; it's a moving exploration of themes like honor, loyalty, and human compassion, as well as the oppression faced by those who don’t fit societal norms.

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alewatchesfilms
My Left Foot: The Story of Christy Brown, 1989 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/my-left-foot-the-story-of-christy-brown/ letterboxd-review-579913287 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 09:33:41 +1200 2024-04-22 No My Left Foot: The Story of Christy Brown 1989 3.5 10161

This might be a bit off-topic, but while Daniel Day-Lewis’s performance is undoubtedly remarkable, I don’t see him as one of the greatest actors ever, as many people do, because I have reservations about method acting. Even he has stated that he needs to do it because he’s not a good enough actor.

I don’t believe you should completely forget how to treat other people respectfully in order to give a good performance. Frankly, I feel half the people who praise him for it wouldn’t last a day working for him.

That’s my rant of the day.

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alewatchesfilms
Glass Onion, 2022 - ★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/glass-onion/ letterboxd-review-579466043 Mon, 22 Apr 2024 13:58:10 +1200 2024-04-21 No Glass Onion 2022 2.0 661374

So dump it’s brilliant. No, it’s just dumb. 

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alewatchesfilms
Sunset Boulevard, 1950 - ★★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/sunset-boulevard/ letterboxd-review-579301711 Mon, 22 Apr 2024 09:53:13 +1200 2024-04-21 No Sunset Boulevard 1950 5.0 599

RIP Pearl you would’ve loved Norma Desmond

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alewatchesfilms
JFK, 1991 - ★★★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/jfk/ letterboxd-review-579184167 Mon, 22 Apr 2024 07:23:48 +1200 2024-04-21 No JFK 1991 4.0 820

“Lee didn’t make much of an impression. He really wasn’t very good looking”
Note to the filmmakers: Gary Oldman is the wrong person to cast if you want to make this point.

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alewatchesfilms
On the Count of Three, 2021 - ★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/on-the-count-of-three/ letterboxd-review-578789318 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 15:44:54 +1200 2024-04-20 No On the Count of Three 2021 3.5 776512

“If any of you knew how to help me by now, you would have fucking done it”

*Probably deserves a higher rating but it was kind of triggering for me, and that is totally my fault bc I knew what I was getting myself into.

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alewatchesfilms
Late Night with the Devil, 2023 - ★★ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/late-night-with-the-devil/ letterboxd-review-578582871 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:06:05 +1200 2024-04-20 No Late Night with the Devil 2023 2.0 938614

No wonder his show was flopping

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alewatchesfilms
We Need to Talk About Kevin, 2011 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/we-need-to-talk-about-kevin/ letterboxd-review-578414418 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 05:33:04 +1200 2024-04-20 No We Need to Talk About Kevin 2011 4.5 71859

Actually, I’d rather not talk about him

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alewatchesfilms
Problemista, 2023 - ★★★★½ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/film/problemista/ letterboxd-review-577966316 Sat, 20 Apr 2024 09:49:56 +1200 2024-04-19 No Problemista 2023 4.5 852247

"When they tell you you can only turn left or right, you let them know you are going up."

Problemista tells the story of Alejandro and his journey through the challenges of obtaining a work visa and staying in the US to chase his dreams.

It's truly incredible that this movie marks Julio Torres' directorial debut. Not only did he direct, but he also wrote, acted, and produced the film. Problemista is a breathtaking achievement that brings Julio's vision to life with such beauty. Through vibrant, psychedelic visuals, the film portrays a world of anxiety, fears, and insecurity.

Tilda Swinton delivers an unforgettable—award worthy—performance in this film. Her portrayal of a complex character is nothing short of mesmerizing. She completely embodies the role, touching on every emotion and nuance with grace and precision. This may be my favorite performance from her, and it was a joy to witness.

The screenplay strikes a perfect balance between humor and emotion, and the pacing keeps the story flowing effortlessly. But what truly makes Problemista shine is its deep, heartfelt message. It's a story about dreams, sacrifices—both our own and those of the people who love us—struggles, hope, and resilience.

The film reminds us to stand up for ourselves and demand our rights, to refuse to let others make us invisible or feel inferior.

Watching this film was an incredibly moving experience, a breath of fresh air that left me eagerly anticipating Julio Torres’ next project. He truly has a gift for storytelling, and I can't wait to see what he does next.

A24 Ranked
2024 Ranked

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alewatchesfilms
2024 ranked 🎞️ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/2024-ranked/ letterboxd-list-40791643 Fri, 5 Jan 2024 14:29:10 +1300
  • Civil War
  • Monkey Man
  • Dune: Part Two
  • Abigail
  • The Fall Guy
  • Problemista
  • Exhuma
  • Suncoast
  • Hundreds of Beavers
  • Música
  • ...plus 23 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    zombie movies ranked 🧟‍♀️ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/zombie-movies-ranked/ letterboxd-list-43568475 Fri, 1 Mar 2024 07:56:28 +1300 i’m developing a new hyperfixation on zombies so i wanna rank them as i discover them. zombies/viruses/living dead all that stuff. 
    recommendations are appreciated🫶🏻

    1. Train to Busan
    2. 28 Days Later
    3. The Return of the Living Dead
    4. Day of the Dead
    5. One Cut of the Dead
    6. The Evil Dead
    7. Dawn of the Dead
    8. Shaun of the Dead
    9. Dawn of the Dead
    10. Night of the Creeps

    ...plus 4 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    hitchcock ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/hitchcock-ranked-1/ letterboxd-list-41258329 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 03:42:44 +1300
  • Vertigo
  • Psycho
  • Foreign Correspondent
  • Rope
  • North by Northwest
  • Strangers on a Train
  • The Lady Vanishes
  • Rear Window
  • The Birds
  • Sabotage
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    50 films to get to know me https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/50-films-to-get-to-know-me/ letterboxd-list-39708122 Fri, 5 Jan 2024 14:37:33 +1300
  • Everything Everywhere All at Once
  • Jurassic Park
  • A Matter of Life and Death
  • A Few Good Men
  • Oppenheimer
  • The Red Shoes
  • Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
  • Civil War
  • After Hours
  • Locke
  • ...plus 40 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    great movies with not enough attention https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/great-movies-with-not-enough-attention/ letterboxd-list-46036527 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:50:04 +1200
  • Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes
  • Buffaloed
  • Diabolique
  • Duel
  • The Hill
  • Hundreds of Beavers
  • I, Daniel Blake
  • Kes
  • Killer Klowns from Outer Space
  • The Killing
  • ...plus 20 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    moo-vies: cows in cinema 🐮 https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/moo-vies-cows-in-cinema/ letterboxd-list-39256180 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 03:36:49 +1300 self explanatory. cows don’t have to be the main characters or pertinent to the plot, they can be in background scenes and such.

    ...plus 52 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    my most awaited 2024 films https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/my-most-awaited-2024-films/ letterboxd-list-40390435 Mon, 1 Jan 2024 02:17:26 +1300
  • Society of the Snow
  • Madame Web
  • Drive-Away Dolls
  • Dune: Part Two
  • Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
  • Godzilla × Kong: The New Empire
  • Civil War
  • Challengers
  • Cuckoo
  • The Fall Guy
  • ...plus 26 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    2023 ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/2023-ranked/ letterboxd-list-36081338 Mon, 7 Aug 2023 10:46:13 +1200
  • Oppenheimer
  • Barbie
  • Anatomy of a Fall
  • The Zone of Interest
  • Society of the Snow
  • Godzilla Minus One
  • Nimona
  • The Holdovers
  • Killers of the Flower Moon
  • Saltburn
  • ...plus 45 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    jime & ale’s cinephile era✨ https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/jime-ales-cinephile-era/ letterboxd-list-45058199 Wed, 3 Apr 2024 11:39:28 +1300 films my bestie Jime and i have watched together 🫶🏻💖

    ...plus 1 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    A24 ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/a24-ranked/ letterboxd-list-38400041 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:42:18 +1300
  • Everything Everywhere All at Once
  • Civil War
  • The Zone of Interest
  • Uncut Gems
  • Pearl
  • Good Time
  • The Florida Project
  • Close
  • The Iron Claw
  • Minari
  • ...plus 35 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    tarantino ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/tarantino-ranked/ letterboxd-list-45250074 Sun, 7 Apr 2024 09:37:42 +1200
  • Reservoir Dogs
  • Django Unchained
  • Pulp Fiction
  • Kill Bill: Vol. 1
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    quotes living in my brain rent-free https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/quotes-living-in-my-brain-rent-free/ letterboxd-list-44531096 Sat, 23 Mar 2024 14:07:01 +1300 *Check Notes*
    As you might have guessed, this is a compilation of quotes from movies that live in my head 24/7.
    I find myself repeating them all the time, and they come to mind whenever I think of those movies.
    Some are emotional, some are extremely funny, but I want to have them all in one place because it's actually emotionally helpful. It’s kind of like a diary, I do this in my notes app but maybe here it’ll be more organized.

    • 28 Days Later

      “Oh, no. No, see, this is a really shit idea. You know why? Because it's really obviously a shit idea. So, we're just gonna drive in the tunnel full of fuckin' smashed cars and broken glass. It's really fuckin' obviously a shit idea!”

    • All About Eve

      “-You have every reason for happiness. 
      -Except happiness.”

      “There’s one career all females have in common, whether we like it or not. being a woman. sooner or later we have to work at it.”

    • The Banshees of Inisherin

      “It was all going fine until he chopped off all his fingers.”

    • Barbie

      “I wanna be a part of the people that make meaning, not the thing that’s made. I wanna do the imagining, i don’t wanna be the idea.”

      “So, being human is not something I need to ask for or, even want I can just…It’s something I just discover I am?”

      (also gloria’s monologue)

    • Children of Men

      Not a quote but I had to include it because the scene when they’re walking down the stairs (iykyk) CHANGED MY LIFE

    • Cinema Paradiso

      “Whatever you end up doing, love it”

    • The Dark Knight

      “You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain.”

    • Dead Poets Society

      “No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.”

    • Dog Day Afternoon

      “Sonny: Kiss me.
      Moretti: What?
      Sonny: Kiss me. When I'm being fucked, I like to get kissed a lot.”

    • Don't Look Up

      “Oh, I fucking love fingerling potatoes”

    ...plus 24 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    danny boyle ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/danny-boyle-ranked/ letterboxd-list-44850788 Sat, 30 Mar 2024 10:43:52 +1300
  • 28 Days Later
  • Slumdog Millionaire
  • Trainspotting
  • Sunshine
  • 127 Hours
  • Steve Jobs
  • Yesterday
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    denis villeneuve ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/denis-villeneuve-ranked/ letterboxd-list-41278216 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 11:14:22 +1300
  • Blade Runner 2049
  • Dune: Part Two
  • Dune
  • Sicario
  • Arrival
  • Prisoners
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    martin mcdonagh ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/martin-mcdonagh-ranked/ letterboxd-list-44852565 Sat, 30 Mar 2024 11:24:15 +1300
  • Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
  • In Bruges
  • The Banshees of Inisherin
  • Seven Psychopaths
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    martin scorsese ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/martin-scorsese-ranked/ letterboxd-list-39623526 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:58:06 +1300 work in progress

    1. Shutter Island
    2. The King of Comedy
    3. After Hours
    4. The Departed
    5. Killers of the Flower Moon
    6. Taxi Driver
    7. Raging Bull
    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    campy 80s https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/campy-80s/ letterboxd-list-43632377 Sat, 2 Mar 2024 17:08:35 +1300 over-the-top/unhinged
    thanks to the people on reddit that helped me :)

    ...plus 53 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    spielberg ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/spielberg-ranked/ letterboxd-list-37009072 Fri, 8 Sep 2023 06:10:25 +1200
  • Jurassic Park
  • Jaws
  • Catch Me If You Can
  • Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
  • E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
  • Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
  • Raiders of the Lost Ark
  • The Terminal
  • West Side Story
  • The Lost World: Jurassic Park
  • ...plus 7 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

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    alewatchesfilms
    Studio Gibhli Ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/studio-gibhli-ranked/ letterboxd-list-42488694 Sun, 4 Feb 2024 17:17:34 +1300
  • Grave of the Fireflies
  • The Cat Returns
  • Kiki's Delivery Service
  • My Neighbor Totoro
  • Howl's Moving Castle
  • Spirited Away
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    james bond ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/james-bond-ranked/ letterboxd-list-37044675 Sun, 14 Jan 2024 11:14:02 +1300 this one’s gonna take a while

    1. Goldfinger
    2. From Russia with Love
    3. Thunderball
    4. Dr. No
    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    stanley kubrick ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/stanley-kubrick-ranked/ letterboxd-list-38649888 Wed, 8 Nov 2023 04:48:46 +1300
  • Full Metal Jacket
  • The Killing
  • The Shining
  • Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
  • 2001: A Space Odyssey
  • Eyes Wide Shut
  • A Clockwork Orange
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    christopher nolan ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/christopher-nolan-ranked/ letterboxd-list-36002488 Fri, 4 Aug 2023 12:17:12 +1200
  • Oppenheimer
  • Inception
  • The Prestige
  • The Dark Knight
  • Interstellar
  • Memento
  • Dunkirk
  • Batman Begins
  • Tenet
  • The Dark Knight Rises
  • ...plus 2 more. View the full list on Letterboxd.

    ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    jurassic park/world ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/jurassic-park-world-ranked/ letterboxd-list-37100143 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:35:25 +1200
  • Jurassic Park
  • Jurassic World
  • Jurassic Park III
  • The Lost World: Jurassic Park
  • Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
  • Jurassic World Dominion
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms
    pta ranked https://letterboxd.com/alewatchesfilms/list/pta-ranked-1/ letterboxd-list-37005088 Fri, 8 Sep 2023 03:01:36 +1200
  • There Will Be Blood
  • Phantom Thread
  • Licorice Pizza
  • Punch-Drunk Love
  • The Master
  • Boogie Nights
  • Inherent Vice
  • ]]>
    alewatchesfilms