Jeanne Dielman rising

  Scorpio Rising (1964) Kenneth Anger may be one of America’s preeminent independent filmmakers, but this film is little more than an elaborate home movie with a nifty soundtrack, including songs from Ricky Nelson, Elvis, Ray Charles, and Bobby Vinton. Some might argue this plotless, meandering look at Scorpio as he tinkers with his motorcycle has… Continue reading Jeanne Dielman rising

The Lyme singing punk

  The Punk Singer (2013) This documentary details the life of Kathleen Hanna, an influential punk singer with the bands Bikini Kill and  Le Tigre who co-founded the riot grrrl movement. Hanna’s sudden retirement in 2005 has long been a source of consternation to her fans. The reason given for her disappearance was creative burn out, but, in reality, she was suffering… Continue reading The Lyme singing punk

The women can’t see nothin’ because of the darkness

  Post Tenebras Lux (2012) The director, Carlos Reygada, is well-regarded, especially for his earlier film Luz Silencosia (2007). Maybe his other films are better than this, but I’m not inclined to believe it. This “impressionistic film,” emulates the work of artists like Monet and Degas and has some well composed shots, but the pervasive attitude of the… Continue reading The women can’t see nothin’ because of the darkness