One of the Most Unique Films I’ve Seen This Year

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MOVIE REVIEW
Tales from the Gimli Hospital [REDUX]
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
Year Released: 1988/2022
Runtime: 1h 4m
Director(s): Guy Maddin
Writer(s): Guy Maddin
Cast: Kyle McCulloch, Michael Gottli, Angela Heck, Margaret Anne Macleod, Heather Neale, David Neale, Caroline Bonner
Where To Watch: available June 20, 2023, pre-order from www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: A film that was an homage to many who have come before. A lot of potential in a gorgeous retro package. I promise you that you won’t stop thinking about your experience when you’re done.

Released initially in 1988, Guy Maddin, a Canadian auteur filmmaker, created his first feature-length film with a small budget and an enormous goal. While, in general, I think he far exceeded his plans, this just wasn’t one for me. With that being said, I can’t fault the film.

Any issue I may have with the film itself is more based on my assumption of what I wanted it to be. Shot on 16mm, it’s an experience straight out of the past and one where you can see the passion bleeding through the celluloid. It won’t be an experience for everyone, but it was unique and creative enough to keep your attention.

This was an homage to some classic silent films at times, but one of its most unique characteristics is that it was a little bit of everything, depending on the moment. I think that’s one of its most impressive characteristics. The story and film seem to be a little out there but in such a way that it’s almost charming. I could go on for some time about my experience, but this is one that’s best served if you just watch it and judge for yourself.

Now, that leaves me on the hunt for the film I wanted to be in my imagination. Based solely on the stills I had seen and the poster for this restoration, I created a film that was a retro throwback to NOSFERATU and THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARI with a little bit of Dr. Vannacutt from the HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL remake thrown in for good measure. If anyone knows of a hidden gem like that, please let me know!

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