BEFORE, NOW & THEN – ★★★

Beautifully shot Indonesian film about a woman, who through unrest lost her husband, and remarries. Most of the story occurs about 15 years after her attempt to run from a threat by militia(?), not knowing what happened to her husband. Unfortunately for me, I had a hard time understanding the plot and context as it happened. Would recommend looking for a non-spoiler synopsis before watching.

MEDITERRANEAN FEVER – ★★★★

I really enjoyed this drama/comedy about a Palestinian middle aged father suffering from depression and considering suicide, when a new neighbour arrives and a friendship strikes up. Has light and humorous moments while dealing with a subject that has affected many, especially in recent years. Not a feel good film, but resonated. 

1976 – ★★★

Incredible wardrobe work, sets and backing soundtrack for this film about a Chilean woman who tries to help the priest of their summer home hide and heal an injured member of the resistance against the government. Unfortunately, like the first film of the day, I had lost track of the plot at a certain point, and was unable to ascertain much around the story.

LOVE AND OTHER CATASTROPHES – ★★★★☆

This film was released 26 years ago and formed part of the launch for MIFF’s ‘Melbourne on Film’ focus of this year’s festival. I saw it when released, and enjoyed it, but hadn’t seen it for many years. It spoke to me then as the characters were around my age, and it was shot around that areas I spent time (Melbourne University, Brunswick Street, etc). Many years later, it still holds up, and provides an incredible time capsule into when Gen X’ers were in their 20s. A piece of nostalgic joy.