This one’s another documentary and though it will only appeal to a very specific group of people, Room 237 is one of the most interesting films I’ve seen all year.
Taking its name from Stanley Kubrick’s classic horror film The Shining, Rodney Ascher’s doc caused a good deal of buzz in the film community when it was released but never quite got the average moviegoer talking. It takes a look at the various theories that people have about Kubrick’s celebrated film and explores the hidden meanings that many have pointed out over the years.
There is much debate, mystery and speculation in regards to the film and what it all means and to hear various theorists spell out their interpretation of things is a real treat for fans of The Shining. Though theories that range from somewhat plausible to completely going out on a limb, we hear how The Shining may be connected to the Apollo 11 moon landing, the Holocaust and more.
Whether you buy what is being said or not doesn’t matter. It’s still entertaining to hear another take on the famed horror classic and fans of Kubrick and his work should no doubt get a kick out of this one.
The coming-of-age comedy genre is always a gamble, because it’s one of the few genres that has to have every little moment perfect. The characters have to be awkward yet believable, the story has to be touching yet funny, the actors have to be relatable yet entertaining – every centimeter has to be polished to perfection. Essentially, we have to be transported back to some of the most awkward years of our lives, and have us love every minute.
The Kings Of Summer is all of that and more, as our three young lead actors lead audiences down an enlightened path of self-discovery and maturation, stuffed to the brim with laughs from a phenomenally noteworthy supporting cast (Nick Offerman!). The concept itself is fun enough, turning a childhood fantasy in a reality, but Jordan Vogt-Roberts’ film secures itself as feel-good summer filmmaking by embracing the silliness of three boys living independently in the woods. Enchanted with enough played-up Hollywood magic, Chris Galletta’s script still manages to aim straight for that nostalgic feeling of self discovery and learning lessons the hard way.
While not the most realistic scenario, brilliant performances (especially a break-out role from Moises Arias) and phenomenally heartfelt scripting make The Kings Of Summer my favorite surprise hit of the year so far.
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