Beginners:
What it’s about:
Through a series of flashbacks and voiceovers “Beginners” tells the story of Oliver Fields, played by Ewan McGregor. Oliver has lived a confusing life, as following the death of his mother, Oliver’s father Hal came out as a homosexual, passing away shortly thereafter. Over the course of the film, Oliver develops a relationship with Anna, an equally damaged individual and the two try to help each other find happiness.
Why you should watch it:
Rarely does a film come off as intimate as “Beginners” does. Oliver’s story is deeply relatable, touching upon every facet regarding happiness and what it takes to obtain it. Mike Mills, writer and director of the film, has given “Beginners” a sense of approachability, drawing upon the coming out of his own father shortly before his death. To some, the film will come off as a drama. To others, it will seem like a romantic comedy. In either case, “Beginners” offers a story that is poignant and thought provoking and should not be disregarded as “just another love story.”
Portlandia:
What it’s about:
As the first episode of “Portlandia” announces, “The dream of the 90s is alive in Portland.” Set in that mythical city in Oregon, this sketch comedy show takes an exaggerated look into the counterculture and hipster movements. The show stars “Saturday Night Live” Alum Fred Armisen and singer-songwriter Carrie Brownstein, each portraying a number of different characters inspired by the various types of people found in metropolitan cities like Portland.
Why you should watch it:
“Portlandia” offers an acutely different form of comedy than what many may be used to. Substituting character development for a more surrealist ambience, the show strikes a strong middle ground between “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” and “Louie.” Those looking for something that doesn’t follow the typical television format may find what they’re looking for in “Portlandia”.
Chaplin:
What it’s about:
This 1992 biopic stars a young Robert Downey, Jr. as the silent film star Charlie Chaplin. Based heavily on Chaplin’s “My Autobiography” and David Robinson’s “Chaplin: His Life and Art,” the movie covers Chaplin’s life behind the scenes of his seemingly shallow slapstick films.
Why you should watch it:
“Chaplin” is an incredibly old movie and it shows. Performances from some of the minor characters are uncomfortably poor and the visual effects are very dated. Nevertheless, “Chaplin” is still worth the watch. Chaplin’s story is a fascinating one, filled with humor, scandal and dedication. This, paired with a stunning performance from Robert Downey, Jr. makes the movie a thrill to watch, despite an admittedly rocky first act.
