January 11th Log

TIME TO LEAVE
2005, Francois Ozon, France
1st Viewing, DVD

Time To Leave opens with a shot of a young boy alone on the beach. This shot is a dream or a memory and it is reflective of a film that is most expressive and poetic in its handling of memories. Directed by the always interesting and versatile French filmmaker Francois Ozon, Time To Leave delves into similar themes of dealing with death, much like his greatest masterpiece- 2000’s Under the Sand). The story centers around a gay photographer (Romain, played by Melvil Poupaud) who learns he has cancer and will die in a matter of months. Romain deals with this by alienating himself from everyone and telling no one except his grandmother (played by legendary actress Jeanne Moreau). The films greatest and most moving relationship is the one of Romain and his fragile sister (played by Louise-Anne Hippeau). The scene at the park where they talk on the phone is truly a touching one. This relationship is heightened through Romain’s memories with his sister, which are repetitive throughout the film. Ozon’s direction is wonderful even when the plot boarders on being contrived, as Romain is given a chance to find redemption and leave his legacy. Time To Leave ends with a simple and powerful moment. This is a striking moving and poetic film from one of the most interesting filmmakers in contemporary French cinema.



CRANK
2006, Brian Taylor / Mark Neveldine, United States
1st Viewing, DVD

Crank is a straight up, no holds bar action film. It’s strength is that it doesn’t hide from what it is and even embraces itself as a non-stop and often ridiculous action film. The basic premise is a setup to be nothing more then non-stop action (A professional hitman gets injected with a poison that will kill him if his heart rate drops). It is like Speed, except the bus is replaced with the protagonist’s veins. Jason Statham, most know for his similarly action-esque roles in The Transporter films, is effectively casted and keeps the film entertaining. The filmmakers attempt to add all types of stylish techniques (freeze frames, split screens, cool effects of the blood pumping to the heart, etc, etc) which does work with the material but occasionally becomes annoying. Overall Crank is entertaining as a completely male, adrenalin-driven action film.