The Struggle for Identity and Autonomy
Read Time:3 Minute, 57 Second
MOVIE REVIEW
Lovely Rita
– 
Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2001, 2024 4k North American premiere
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director(s): Jessica Hausner
Writer(s): Jessica Hausner
Cast: Barbara Osika, Christoph Bauer, Peter Fiala, Wolfgang Kostal, Karina Brandlmayer
Language: German and English with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now on VOD & leading digital outlets
RAVING REVIEW: LOVELY RITA feels like being granted a backstage pass to the pulsating heart of Vienna's independent cinema scene. With her debut, Jessica Hausner invites us into a realm where the norms we place on things and the tumultuous journey of self-discovery collide through the eyes of her protagonist, Rita (Barbara Osika.) This film is an emotional expedition that blends critical societal observation with an intimate character portrait. Hausner's narrative prowess shines, creating a film experience that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It's the fourth film I’ve watched of Hausner’s after CLUB ZERO, HOTEL, and LOURDES, and arguably another of my favorites, thanks to the worlds created within them.
Hausner's ascent from Vienna's vibrant indie film world to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival showcases a director who's not afraid to weave complexity into her cinematic tales and take chances with every frame. With LOVELY RITA, she focuses her vision on the choppy waters of youth, juxtaposing the fire of adolescent rebellion against society's cold, complex structures. The result? It is a nuanced, engaging, simple, and powerful story, proving Hausner's focus is sharp and empathetically attuned.
Central to this tale is Rita, brought to life with an incredible depth of emotion by Osika. Rita's story mirrors the struggles of identity, the ache of loneliness, and the courage it takes to swim against the tide. Hausner's exploration of Rita's precarious walk on the journey of adolescence—teetering between the ease of conformity and the perilous jump toward self-discovery—is riveting.
The film draws inspiration from various cinematic influences, marrying the minimalist with the significant and firmly establishing Hausner as a filmmaker of distinction. She doesn't just tell a story; she invites the audience into a dialogue, urging us to seek out the beauty and profundity in life's quieter moments and the things left unsaid.
At the heart of Hausner's creativity, LOVELY RITA stands as a beacon of her ability to navigate the human condition's complexity. This film transcends the typical coming-of-age narrative, offering poignant commentary on the broader stage. It dares its viewers to question, confront the uncomfortable, and explore the depths of human emotion with bravery and empathy.
Some may critique the film for its measured pacing or shift away from the flash and dazzle of mainstream entertainment, but precisely, these qualities underscore its brilliance. LOVELY RITA is a journey for those willing to engage deeply, promising a rich, emotional, and intellectual reward for those who do.
LOVELY RITA marks a bold risk by a director who dares to explore the road less traveled. The film challenges questions and enriches the experience film, reminding us of cinema's true power to stir, provoke thought, and elicit profound emotional responses. Hausner is an icon for those of us navigating the vast seas of film, looking for more than just entertainment but a meaningful, profound connection. As the final scene fades to black, we're left satisfied, stirred, reflective, and eager for whatever Hausner brings to the screen next. In cinema, LOVELY RITA is an invitation to engage with film on a profoundly more profound level.
For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. You can also find my social media accounts on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.
[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]
DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0
The Struggle for Identity and Autonomy
Read Time:4 Minute, 46 Second
MOVIE REVIEW
King of the Gypsies
– 
Genre: Crime, Drama
Year Released: 1978, 2023 ViaVision Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 52m
Director(s): Frank Pierson
Writer(s): Peter Maas, Frank Pierson
Cast: Sterling Hayden, Shelley Winters, Susan Sarandon, Judd Hirsch, Eric Roberts, Brooke Shields, Annette O'Toole
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.viavision.com.au or search for retailers in the US
RAVING REVIEW: Step into the gritty yet colorful world of 1970s New York with KING OF THE GYPSIES, a compelling dive into a family saga that's as much about clashing cultures as the universal quest for identity. Directed by Frank Pierson, this film introduces us to Dave, played by Eric Roberts, in a performance that's nothing short of mesmerizing. Roberts navigates through a whirlwind of family turmoil and the weight of ancestral chains with a raw and profoundly moving performance. This isn't just another period piece; it's a narrative that boldly confronts the realities of gypsy life, mixing rich drama with slices of humor that catch you off guard.
DISCLAIMER: This review discusses the film KING OF THE GYPSIES, a title and subject matter that includes terminology considered outdated and potentially offensive in contemporary discourse. "Gypsy" is historically used to refer to the Romani people. Still, it is essential to acknowledge that it is now widely regarded as pejorative due to its associations with stereotypes and discrimination. The usage of this term in this review is strictly in the context of referencing the film's title and content as initially released. It is not intended to perpetuate disrespect or insensitivity towards the Romani community. We recognize the importance of respectful and accurate terminology when discussing ethnic and cultural groups and strive to use language thoughtfully in all other aspects of our discussion. We intend to critique the film's artistic and cultural significance without diminishing the respect and dignity owed to the Romani people.
The plot thickens with a tragedy in Dave's life. This pivotal moment sets Dave on a collision course with destiny, sidelining his father Groffo, a character Judd Hirsch fills with a sense of desperation and villainy. This rift is more than personal; it mirrors a more extensive dialogue about the struggle between embracing tradition and forging one's path, a theme Pierson handles with his passionate storytelling.
The film does a stellar job of marrying epic narratives with the authentic struggles of gypsy existence, creating scenes that resonate with drama and controversy. Susan Sarandon stands out among the ensemble as Dave's mother, Rose, bringing gravitas and nuance to the role. Her dynamic with Brooke Shields, who makes a memorable yet slightly out-of-place performance as Dave's sister, Tita, adds complexity to the unfolding family drama.
Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes, with Sven Nykvist's cinematography capturing the essence of gypsy culture against the backdrop of 1970s New York. David Grisman's score wraps the tale in an aural tapestry that enhances the atmosphere.
Yet, for all its ambition, KING OF THE GYPSIES sometimes misses the mark, struggling to maintain a consistent tone across its various narratives. The portrayal of gypsy life occasionally drifts into stereotypical territory, and the plot can become predictable, detracting from the film's potential to engage fully.
Despite these shortcomings, Eric Roberts' portrayal of Dave is a core portrayal of authenticity, offering a layered look at a man wrestling with the dual pressures of familial expectations and personal aspirations. His journey from a rebellious youth to a reluctant leader is depicted with a sincerity that resonates well beyond the film's runtime.
KING OF THE GYPSIES carves out a distinctive niche in the landscape of 1970s cinema, providing a rich, albeit slightly flawed, exploration of identity, family dynamics, and the drive for autonomy within the misunderstood gypsy community. It remains a fascinating exploration, capturing the complexity of life at the crossroads of tradition and self-discovery. Ultimately, it's a journey worth taking, offering a glimpse into a world where the battle for one's soul is as vibrant and challenging as the streets of New York.
Special Features & Technical Specs:
– 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
– NEW Audio Commentary by film historian/filmmaker Daniel Kremer
– NEW Interview with editor Paul Hirsch
– Trailers From Hell: Michael Schlesinger on “King of the Gypsies”
– Vintage Interview with actor Eric Roberts (1978)
– Trailer
– Audio LPCM 2.0 Mono
– Original Aspect Ratio 1.85:1
– Optional English HOH Subtitles
– Limited Edition slipcase with unique artwork
For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.
Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.
[photo courtesy of VIAVISION, IMPRINT]
DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0
Average Rating