nihilisia Reviews

Bride of the Wind (2001)

Lovely movie about a real woman

[8/10 · 6 January 2005]

As with many biographical narratives, Bride of the Wind meanders more than most stories do. Because of this, one may have to be in a mood to do a little of the work while watching this movie.

I think the film has been very well executed. The acting, photography and directing are all beautifully and thoughtfully crafted. The subtle quality of the writing and acting enhances the force of human reality and delineates the truth of emotions in a way that no overly dramatic movie could.

One might compare this movie to the French movie, Camille Claudel, in that it is the story of a frustrated female artist whose energies are at least partially consumed by their roles as muses to more famous male creatives. However, Alma Mahler's character is quite different than Camille's.

I highly recommend this movie to anybody with an attention span, especially if you have any artistic leanings. 8/10

Cousin Bette (1998)

Stilted with overpowering musical score

[3/10 · 5 January 2005]

This movie is alright if you've got the remote in your hand in order to speed up the many painfully slow shots of people walking. (Perhaps I could have appreciated the photography more if the music wasn't so overbearing throughout).

I really like Elisabeth Shue, but her lines were especially unnatural sounding. You can't make Jessica Lange look plain - it's not possible. But, kudos for trying.

Most of the acting was actually fine, but the story line and some of the editing choices kept this movie from ever achieving any real since of rhythm.