[psycho d]

El Topo (1970). This surreal western utilizes religion and occult symbolism and allegory to sum up the paradox of man. The result is a mess of a movie if one were to look at it from a movie goer's perspective. Instead, this flick must be viewed in light of a philosopher's mindset, wildly open to conflicting interpretations. The fatalism of human existence is wonderful, no matter what man sets out to do, he will either be doing it for the wrong reasons or with unintended results. By merely trying, man is bound to fail. And yet, to do nothing is just as disastrous. How nice! With low production values, the film is still a great success, as its convoluted message gets booted out of the closet and into the blinding light of civilization's absurd convictions.

Saints and Soldiers (2003). This low-budget war flick delivers a champagne quality message of war. A character driven story, the cast and their portrayals could not have delivered a better band of would-be heroes. During the throngs of war, what comes into question is what a guy should hold true, be it his patriotism, his camaraderie, his duty, or his humanity, and in very uncertain terms hints that this is no easy question with an even more uncertain answer. What is more, as the flick moves forward, so does the understanding of the soldiers as to their allegiances, if only to call them further into question. The acting was simply awesome and powerful, whose puissance is expressed in subtle gestures. The story, based on true events of WWII, was simple and incredible. The direction and camera all bring into light the cold and bitter field with which our heroes are to exact their ultimate enterprise. Merci beaucoup.
Genruk'