Movies That Made Me Love Movies

Intro

I was an avid movie hater for several years. I'm not exactly sure what prompted this, but the thought of sitting down and watching an entire movie would make my skin crawl. I of course had a few movies that were personal favorites, and I rewatched them frequently. It wasn't until the beginning of this year that I had any interest in exploring outside of my bubble, and it has truly inspired a total 180! In the spirit of that, I'd like to share some thoughts about my new favorites with ya'll. I promise no spoilers!

Perfect Blue

I've been watching anime series for about two years now, but this was my first anime movie. Not only does it make me love anime even more, but it also ignited an obsession with psychological thrillers. Something I really enjoyed was the lack of grounding. The fast, abrupt pacing made it difficult at times to know what was and wasn't real. So in that way it made me feel as though I was in the same headspace as the main character. There were times that I would grow suspicious of a character, but the constant back and forth made it difficult to hold onto any rational thoughts. I truly think that this was just so beautifully made, and the second watch is equally as entertaining as the first! I have pleaded with everyone in my life to watch this movie. They refuse and for that will incur my wrath! 

Requiem for a Dream

This was the first movie I watched directed by Darren Aronofsky, and after this I questioned his wellbeing. I truly believe that instead of after school specials the school board needs to start showing this movie during their drugs unit. If I would've watched this in high school health class I would not be puffing on an elfbar as I type this! In any case, I really loved the storylines of all main characters. That feels wrong to say, but I just couldn't take my eyes off the screen. It truly felt like a trainwreck I couldn't look away from. The music that is used throughout really intensifies every scene, and I personally felt that my heart was not only lunging through my chest but also dropping out my ass. When the credits rolled I just sat and blinked for god knows how long after, but I really love when a movie makes an impact like that! Also a little fun fact: a scene from perfect blue was recreated in this movie. 

Belle de Jour

I really stepped out of my comfort zone with this one. I've never really been a fan of overly sexual movies, so for me this was really out of character. Honestly though I didn't view this movie that way at all. While there were certainly sexual scenes throughout the movie it didn't strike that nerve for me. I think the reason being they were all relevant to the story in their own way. I think that the core issue for me is relevancy. Regardless, I really liked the fantasy vs. reality aspect. It was really jarring at times, and I love the discussion surrounding that. I found this movie incredibly thought provoking as to why people like the things that they do. The subject is still pretty taboo, but it just made me really think about cause and effect. There are so many things to reflect on I could genuinely talk for hours and hours about this movie.

What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?

Ya'll already know I love this movie just by looking at my profile. This was the only movie where Bette Davis and Joan Crawford worked together. It was also my introduction to them both! (unless we are counting the Kim Carnes song) Something that I noticed was that the camera would switch position before any violent act. I found this really interesting considering I grew up on slashers. It was really refreshing, and the goal of building fear was still achieved. Something else that stuck out to me is the viewer having a similar claustrophobic feeling as the main character. It felt uncomfortable watching the two of them without intervention, but you were stuck just like the main character. I also liked how little the side characters were shown, yet still added something to the story. This movie really sparked my interest in old hollywood, and I cannot wait to watch even more!

Outro

These movies are just a select few that fuel my love for cinema. Looking back on my previous self, I honestly think it wasn't even movies I hated. To this very day I cannot stand watching movies with others. Don't even mention the theater! This isn't because I'm hateful it just drives me crazy having to pause, hearing the crunch, or the absolute worst talkers! I've really had it with that. If you've read this far thank you! :)