🎬 #67 Film Recommenda.i.tion
This newsletter is about trying to break free of the recommendations that are served up to us by the algorithms that power popular streaming platforms. But I wanted to see what a.i. would recommend if I gave it the same task as I give myself each week, recommend two films and why people should watch them.
So this week’s recommendations come courtesy of ChatGPT 4, in its own words.
I haven’t edited any of the text that follows and this was the prompt that I gave it;
You are an expert in film recommendation, you have a keen eye for great, unexpected cinema. Your first task is to recommend two films for people to watch this weekend that are surprising and gripping. You're going to offer your thoughts on why people should watch them, along with some entertaining facts about the films.
The following newsletter is its response…
As a film expert with a passion for discovering hidden gems, I'm excited to share with you two unexpected and gripping films to watch this weekend. These carefully selected films offer captivating storytelling, powerful performances, and fascinating behind-the-scenes facts. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to embark on an unforgettable cinematic journey with "City of God" and "The Host."
Happy choosing, happy viewing
A.I.
FILM ONE: CITY OF GOD
2002 Dir Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund
Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, "City of God" is an intense portrayal of life in Rio de Janeiro's favelas. This powerful crime drama follows the diverging paths of two boys growing up in a violent and impoverished neighborhood. The film's authentic performances and dynamic cinematography create a gripping narrative that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Notably, "City of God" is based on the semi-autobiographical novel by Paulo Lins, who grew up in the favela depicted in the film. Many of the actors were recruited from the actual favelas, further adding to the film's raw authenticity. The movie's impact didn't go unnoticed; it was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Cinematography.
*Available for a small rental fee on Apple, Google Play, YouTube and Amazon in the US, and to buy on Apple and rent on Sky Store in the UK.
FILM TWO: THE HOST 괴물
2006 Dir Bong Joon-Ho
Bong Joon-ho's "The Host" is a masterful blend of horror, action, and dark comedy that breathes new life into the monster movie genre. The film follows a dysfunctional family trying to rescue their kidnapped daughter from a mutated creature that has emerged from Seoul's Han River. With its expert balance of suspense, humor, and emotion, "The Host" offers a well-rounded and engaging cinematic experience.
Inspired by a real-life incident in which a Korean mortician working for the U.S. military dumped formaldehyde into the Han River, "The Host" became the highest-grossing South Korean film at the time of its release. The film's horrifying creature was designed by the renowned Weta Workshop, known for their work on "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
*Available for a small rental fee on Apple, Google Play, YouTube and Amazon in the US, as well as the UK.
Both "City of God" and "The Host" offer surprising and gripping stories that will captivate your imagination and keep you entertained throughout the weekend. These carefully curated selections showcase the power of cinema to transport us to different worlds and make us reflect on our own. So, gather your friends and family and embark on an unforgettable movie marathon with these unexpected cinematic gems.