My Weekly Take: The Master, Bug, and Goodfellas. Plus More...

Short reviews of films from Paul Thomas Anderson's 2012 masterpiece to Friedkin's 2007 psychological thriller and Scorsese's best mob film...

Here in My Weekly Take, I write brief evaluations for each film to discuss why they are worth watching. Some may be ones I didn't enjoy, and I'll try to squeeze those in as well. These can be films that I've already seen and recently rewatched, as well as films that have just been released in theaters.

The Master / 2012 / Dir. Paul Thomas Anderson

Paul Thomas Anderson's The Master addresses serious issues. On the surface, it's about a leader who wants to build a following by calling it The Cause; nevertheless, in its subtext, PTA depicts two individuals with obsessions, one of whom has utterly broken from society, or society has broken him. Quell (J. Phoenix) is someone who is on the run. Perhaps from family, friends, lovers, and the government, and he is at a stage in his life when he can't get along with anybody. Is it all his fault, or is it all due to his surroundings and people? The Master is about tragedy.

Bug / 2007 / Dir. William Friedkin

Bug teaches anyone who enjoys films or wants to write and direct their own. But that isn't the only advantage it comes with. Friedkin also demonstrates how to make the most of actors who are in peak physical and intellectual condition. Bug gets under your skin from the first scene, and then it's too late because there is no turning back. You're stuck with it. It will even make you question your sanity at times. It's an absolute masterpiece.

Dune: Part Two / 2024 / Dir. Denis Villeneuve

This week, I also returned to Villeneuve's second entry in the Dune series, focusing mostly on the film's atmosphere and world-building. There's a lot to digest in both Dune films, but what sets them apart is the cinematography, editing, sound, and production design. It's methodical and accurate, especially in the second part, because it broadens the scope and captures or demonstrates in-depth aspects of what the source material intended to portray.

Goodfellas / 1990 / Dir. Martin Scorsese

Scorsese's Goodfellas is the definitive mob movie. I understand it's a cliche to say that, but what makes it the best gangster movie? The subject matter is handled seriously and respectfully because, while Scorsese depicts the glamour, celebrity, and money that come with being a successful mobster, he also emphasizes the consequences. That is not all. Scorsese's direction and vision triggered a new approach and getting the proper performers to do the job. Many movies fail because the director doesn’t follow these important rules.