The Double (2013) dir. Richard Ayoade
Richard Ayoade’s totally surreal take on the doppelgänger is a visually striking psychological nightmare. Adapting from Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Notes from the Underground, every scene is puzzling but in an enigmatic and exciting way. Ayoade manages to showcase the material with charisma, wit and a bit of Gilliam flare.
Synecdoche, New York (2008) dir. Charlie Kaufman
Feeling like it’s the end of the world? Well, Charlie Kaufman’s Synecdoche, New York will make you even more nihilistic than before. It’s hard for me to write about this film without just explaining how this movie made me feel. At times, it feels so epic but also is so grounded with Kaufman’s wit. Watch for Phillip Seymour Hoffman’s finest work and stay for the existential life crisis you will have when the credits will roll!
Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020) dir. Eliza Hittman
I feel like Eliza Hittman's fourth and incredibly deep portrayal of abortion got left by the wayside due to the COVID-19 epidemic. I had the chance to see this at Sundance this year and it completely destroyed me! Hittman has proved that her ability to capture the human condition is masterful and there is no exception with Never Rarely. Sidney Flanagan gives an incredibly understated and nuanced performance and if the questionnaire scene doesn’t affect you deeply then I don’t know what will!
Howard’s End (1992) dir. James Ivory
Adapting literary period pieces can be quite the challenge but James Ivory’s manages to unfold the novel to the screen in such an effortless manner. Ivory owes a lot to the cast as Emma Thompson’s portrayal of Margaret is a masterclass from beginning to end. It is the perfect epitaph of an old social order and one that should be considered a classic. Also, if you are at all interested in the Broadway play The Inheritance, the novel and film are essential viewing.
Smiley Face (2007) dir. Gregg Araki
Although not the most “intelligent” film on this list, Smiley Face is easily the film that brings me the most joy in a time of need. It is silly, ridiculous, but charming nonetheless. Anna Faris is at her best here, never missing a beat with her stoner persona at an all time high. In many ways redefining the “pot” genre, director Gregg Araki created a film with ceaselessly hilarious moments that are hard not to love.
The Ice Storm (1997) dir. Ang Lee
The Ice Storm is not only Ang Lee’s most underrated film but also one of his best. He explores the intricacies of childhood and adulthood and the shifts between the two, while also honing in on a deeply thought-provoking exploration of personal identity. Joan Allen, who was robbed of accolades for her performance, perfectly encapsulates the bridge between adolescence and adulthood and the the yearning for something that will assure us of our own identity. Also, the entire supporting cast is incredible and doing their best work here.
To Live (1994) dir. Zhang Yimou
A family epic shrouded by Mao ZeDong’s reign directed expertly by auteur Zhang Yimou. Although epic, it is remarkably small in scope, honing in the story of one family experiencing history change before their eyes around them. Yimou never fails in the pacing of the film, along with managing to direct an incredible performance by Gong Li. Also the cinematography by Lü Yue is criminally underrated!
Closet Monster (2016) dir. Stephen Dunn
Stephen Dunn’s breathtaking film is told in such a poetic and personal way it’s hard not to love. Easily one of my favorite coming-of-age films, it definitely bridges the gap between realistic expectations of a queer youth mixed with a surrealist fantasy that is so fascinating to watch. Also, legendary actress Isabella Rossellini plays a hamster. What more can you ask for???
The Marriage of Maria Braun (1979) dir. Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s devastating melodrama about a World War II widow adjusting to her life in postwar Germany is exceptional. Not only does Hanna Shygulla give an amazing performance but the lush landscapes and costumes completely entrap you in its grasp. This incredible deep character study brought about by the effects of war is complex, profound and one not to miss!
Vox Lux (2018) dir. Brady Corbet
Natalie Portman literally transcends in this dark and surreal portrayal of a deranged pop star. Avoiding dismal tragedy, Brady Corbet’s self-proclaimed fairy-tale is a twisted diagnosis of Western obsession with the celebrity, where even tragedy is something to exploit. Similar to Black Mirror in tone, Vox Lux is first and foremost daring and it's almost impossible to not bathe in the spectacle. Also be ready to stream the songs, Private Girl and EKG from the film as they are certified BOPS!
Colin Barrett is a recent graduate of Ithaca College where he studied Cinema Production and English. During his time there he was able to write, produce, and direct 3 short films and volunteer at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. He also spends at least 80% of his time watching films and procrastinating! Follow him on Twitter and Letterboxd.