Monday, January 29, 2007

Movie Review

I love movies that impact your soul. I've seen some good ones this month.


The Last of The Mohicans is my favourite film of all time. All though it will never be surpassed Apocalyto has a similar feel to it. Set in the end times of the once great Mayan Civilisation, it features Jaguar Paw as it's hero. It's pretty gruesome in parts but a must-see for any men who have a little wildness in their hearts!


Set in the Johannesburg township of Soweto - where survival is the primary objective - TSOTSI traces six days in the life of a ruthless young gang leader who ends up caring for a baby accidentally kidnapped during a car-jacking. It's a beautiful story of redemption. A must for lovers of Africa.



On that theme....I had just finished reading The Last King of Scotland novel. An amazing story of the moral corruption of Idi Amin's Uganda seen through the eyes of a Scottish doctor, raising issues of power, greed and poverty. The film was sexed up a bit and a little disappointing. Worth watching but if faced with a choice read the book instead.



If you're still with me then Blood Diamond is the one you must see. An amazing movie combining a great story with some serious social questions. The diamond industry, child soldiers, poverty, war, western greed, african corruption are all targeted. It asks every individual questions about their choices and morality.
I didn't sleep on Saturday night after watching it. I lay awake bombarded by questions and unrest:
-Why is the world so screwed up?
-Why is life so difficult for those who least deserve it?
-Do I really give a shit about Africa? and if so then why do I find myself talking about it much more often than doing something about it? A passion for change has to mean more than giving money and going on summer trips.
-On the big picture can I really make a difference? I understand Mother Teresa (and Jesus!) preaching about 'changing the world for one' but I mean on the big picture. How can I actually change anything?
-I love my job and my new house...could I sacrifice them?
etc etc.

6 comments:

The Wee Italian Chick said...

Definitively agree with the choice of movies -it seems that after a rather disappointing 2006,international cinematography is finally steppin-up-a noch!Was equally disappointed with the big screen rendition of "the last king of scotland",but I concur that if you have even briefly brushed against Africa,injustice,unjustifiable poverty and suffering you can't help but feel like s**t about your perceived impotence and blatant indifference.However,I often find that these type of reactions help me be a little more bothered..(I just wish I felt like that all the time)and increases my awe for a God who does not regard wealth,social status-but loves and gives HOPE unconditionally and really agonises together with a suffering world. Just a thought...*PS:I am ashamed to say I have never watched 'the last of the mohicans'...doh!

The Wee Italian Chick said...

BTW:Hope you don't mind, but YOU HAVE BEEN TAGGED!!!(for more info see my blog!,Ivonne

Brian said...

I think frustration is from God, it's the womb of change!!!!

Anonymous said...

Nice one John

J-Mac said...

Almer Stoffer????? It can't be!

The Wee Italian Chick said...

John,I don't know you,yet I don't know how to thank you for introducing me to Duke Special!!!Went to see them last night and they were fantastic(check out my blog for details!)-thanks!