L'Amant

0701
L'Amant review

"The subject is taboo and Hiroki's approach is unflinching, yet the result is a subtle, nuanced and touching drama that well exceeded any expectations I had up front."

The Dog of Flanders

0702
The Dog of Flanders review

"A very touching, very dear yet very sad story about a boy that got a lot less out of life than he deserved."

Bad Lands

0703
Bad Lands review

"Bad Lands is a ride, a film that takes a personal story and turns it into a sprawling crime film. The styling is pristine, Ando is exemplary and there isn't a boring moment in sight."

Rage

0704
Rage review

"The superb cast and impeccable styling ease you into the film while Lee's bold and contrasting touches keep you engaged throughout."

Adrift in Tokyo

0705
Adrift in Tokyo review

"Adrift In Tokyo is a rather lovely film. It knows how to blend comedy and drama into a perfect mix of blanket-like warmth, covering the viewer with a world he'd somehow like to inhabit."

Love in a Puff

0706
Love in a Puff review

"On the surface a simple romantic comedy, the film itself is grounded in a more realistic setting and allows a good look into the lives of contemporary HK citizens."

Hard Boiled

0707
Hard Boiled review

"Hard Boiled is one of the best action flicks out there, touting majestic gun fights and epic body counts, with a prime cast and a talented director keeping everything in check."

Dancing Mary

0708
Dancing Mary review

"Dancing Mary is a beautifully crafted, constantly surprising and joyous little film that entertains and delights, while also offering something extra to chew on for those who care."

Two Pigeons

0709
Two Pigeons review

"Two Pigeons is a small delight. It's not a big, swooping movie, but it offers plenty of nasty smiles, some genuine wonder and a very balanced ending."

Left Bank

0710
Left Bank review

"The atmosphere is pleasantly bleak, dark and loaded, there's a little audiovisual bravoure, the actors are on point and the plot keeps you guessing."

Inugami

0711
Inugami review

"Inugami offers a unique trip through Japanese folklore, serving rural mysticism and respect for tradition with fine cinematography, a beautiful score and solid performances."

Deerskin

0712
Deerskin review

"If you love absurd comedy, executed with a deadpan disposition and styled conform the overall tone of the film, with some additional horror elements to boot, then Deerskin is bound to delight."

Wonderful World End

0713
Wonderful World End review

"one of the many Japanese dramas dealing with adolescents, but it manages to stand out thanks to its original setting, its unpredictable plot, and its youthful presentation."

Crows Explode

0714
Crows Explode review

"Toyoda made an impeccable sequel to Miike's first two films."

Howl's Moving Castle

0715
Howl's Moving Castle review

"The animation is superb, the characters are charming, it's fun to explore the fantasy realm and the pacing is nigh perfect. Good, old-fashioned Ghibli quality in other words."

M

0716
M review

"If you want another character drama, M might prove to be a too big a challenge and there are plenty of other Hiroki films you could and should be watching instead."

Election 2

0717
Election 2 review

"It's a stylish, smart and balanced Triad film, sporting a great cast, a characteristic soundtrack, a couple of witty setups and a fulfilling finale."

Aberdeen

0718
Aberdeen review

"It's another great addition to Pang's oeuvre and proof that he's a truly unique force in the Hong Kong movie industry. One for the connoisseurs."

Mr. Six

0719
Mr. Six review

"The film looks beautiful, the acting is superb and while thematically a little easy the execution and blend of genres makes sure it never becomes too dull or feels too familiar."

Lover's Discourse

0720
Lover's Discourse review

"Visually Lover's Discourse is a stunning film, the soundtrack is solid but not too spectacular and the acting is all-round impressive."

Villain

0721
Villain review

"Overall Villain is a strong film with a clear goal in mind. Know that you need to get through the first hour, trusting Lee that the second half will be much richer and better."

August in the Water

0722
August in the Water review

"Probably one of his most accessible films, though there is still plenty of wonder and authorship to be admired."

The Isle

0723
The Isle review

"While a little rough around the edges, there are many moments of raw beauty, contrasting cruelty and tenderness in a way only Ki-duk can, creating one of the most contorted romances ever put on film."

Subject 101

0724
Subject 101 review

"Subject 101 made me realize how much I miss these types of films. A good old mindfuck that sets out to confuse rather than explain, and doing so in the most maximalist way possible."

Freesia: Icy Tears

0725
Freesia: Icy Tears review

"The atmospheric cinematography, the strong performances and the intriguing lore make this a fun yet challenging manga adaptation that captivates from start to finish."