Month: September 2021

Movie of the Week: ‘My Best Fiend’

Jeff Mitchell

Werner Herzog turned 79 years young on Sept. 5, so we have to pick one of his films as our Movie of the Week! It’s terribly difficult to pick just one Werner film. However, since “Aguirre, the Wrath of God” (1972) and “Fitzcarraldo” (1982) are two of his biggest and most ambitious narratives, it makes sense to pick a documentary that specifically turns to those flicks, so “My Best Fiend” it is! “My Best Fiend” (1999) – Werner featured Klaus Kinski in five of his films, but after watching this…

Ten essential Werner Herzog documentaries

Jeff Mitchell

Ten essential Werner Herzog documentaries Werner Herzog turns 79 years young on Sept. 5, and this forward and fearless Oscar-nominated filmmaker frequently makes narratives and documentaries.  One of the most celebrated aspects of Werner’s documentaries – at least to this critic – is his narration.  His one-of-a-kind cadence, eccentric and blunt word choices, and old-school perspectives make him a most welcome verbal chaperone for his daring on-screen choices. Well, in honor of this legend’s birthday, I’m looking back at ten essential Werner Herzog documentaries. “Land of Silence and Darkness” (1971)…

‘CODA’: Bring tissues. You may sail away on an ocean of tears.

Jeff Mitchell

“CODA” (2021) – Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) loves her family.  She also works on their fishing boat practically every day.  For anyone who labored with their mom, dad, brothers, or sisters in a family-owned business, you know that you’re locked into a 24/7 commitment.  Okay, Ruby doesn’t immerse herself in everything-fish for every waking or sleeping moment.  Still, she regularly sets her alarm for 3 a.m. to accompany her dad, Frank (Troy Kotsur), and her older brother, Leo (Daniel Durant), on their vessel, The Angela Rose.  The three sail the…