noteworthy films halfway into 2024 (according to my letterboxed ratings)
the perks of being a wallflower (2012) dir. stephen chbosky
i never got around to watching this film until january of this year but i’m so glad i watched it! the perks of being a wallflower is a coming of age film following charlie, an individual that struggles with his mental health. he then meets + becomes friends sam and patrick to help with the isolation he felt coping with his struggles. they make sure to assure him that happiness takes time and depicts the raw + real aspects of growing up.
surrogate valentine (2011) dir. dave boyle
this film follows an asian musician goh nakamura and his experiences with rachel, the girl who got away + him navigating the entertainment industry. this trope is very common in a lot of films but i feel like you’re able to see the distinction between personas in the individuals that make up this film. such as lynn chen and chad stoops as well as goh. all strong actors with stronger voices! amazing film to start off the trilogy.
saving face (2004) dir. alice wu
i just rewatched it recently, and i gotta say it’s absolutely flawless! the representation for queer asian americans around the world is something quite special! i hope i’ll be able to see this film in theaters for it’s 20th birthday as it’s a film that i love dearly! alice wu’s films have some sort of homey nature that really depicts asian tradition and culture…hits me to my core! a timeless piece!
daylight savings (2012) dir. dave boyle
this particular film, the second film after surrogate valentine, focuses solely on goh nakamuras emotional aspects to his character rather than his musician aspects. he heads to vegas and the audience is introduced to yea-ming which shows goh’s sentimental side! very great film!
i will make you mine (2020) dir. lynn chen
lynn chen’s film directing debut is nothing but extraordinary. this film depicts details from all paths of life tied by a same universal thread. it has allowed me to connect and reminisce over past experiences, which was something quite special. this trilogy has been a treat to watch! definitely highly recommend!
gia (1998) dir. michael cristofer
this film has a very detailed representation of the struggles of being within the modeling industry and the detrimental impacts that it can have on ones well being. the story of gia carangi is one of high complexity whether, through relationships, addiction, or her career. angelina jolie slayed! anyways if someone doesn’t break a glass window with their foot to see me i don’t want them.
other films i’ve watched 6 months into this year:
cat fight (2016) dir. onur tukel
paris (2003) dir. ramin niami
anaiis in love (2021) dir. charline bourgeois-tacquet
miller’s girl (2024) dir. jade halley bartlett
white on rice (2009) dir. dave boyle
waterlilies (2007) dir. céline sciamma
dumplings (2004) dir. fruit chan
the lover (1992) dir. jean-jacques annaund
thank you for reading!
signing off,
chloe m.