[psycho d]

Anatomy (2000). Seems a love it or hate it flick by most accounts. If'n ya watch the dubbed version, chances are that you'll be on the hatin' side. Whilst there are some plot holes and plenty horror cliches, Anatomy does not follow the typical horror standard. The humor is genuine, the characters authentic in tone, the gore was cringe worthy, and the sets were rich. Franka Potente brings a lot to the table, and here her fare does not disappoint. The direction was competent, and the camera work was a standout for the genre. The ending, whilst "corny," was appropriately so.

Maria Full of Grace (2004). Sometimes less is more. In this incredible drama, the documentary tone and careful attention to mundane detail makes this flick almost too veritable to bear. A story driven by the cold realities of poverty and the risks taken to make for a better world, Maria's character has the perfect blend of hardheadedness for such a harrowing journey. As the film unfolds, there is no political agenda or westernized opinion to be shoved down our throats, but instead the plot unfolds from the POV of a new world Colombian peasant. The result is a tense ride that nary leaves time for a namaste breath. The acting, utilizing Colombians and their native Spanish where possible, was impressive. The direction and hand held camera work was ingeniously understated. And the story was sublime with and ending that leaves the viewer time to finally breathe and ponder its character's future. Merci beaucoup.
Genruk'