Ikiru

Release Year: 1952

Director: Akira Kurosawa

Review: Akira Kurosawa makes what could be one of the bleakest, dullest plots into a film that is absolutely captivating and moving experience. An aging bureaucrat finds out that he has cancer. In an attempt to salvage some meaning to his life before he goes out, he makes building a children's playground his mission. It's not one of the most riveting premises. Let us not forget however, that Kurosawa is a genius. The way that he handles this off-putting material is sincere, and touching. The acting by Takashi Shimura elevates the role above just pitiful dying man. It is a brilliant existential examination, and biting criticism of how we waste our lives. It has some of the most gut wrenchingly sad scenes, but the overall payoff is uplifting. Kurosawa once again blew me away with his use of camera and framing to make what could be a mundane, flat scene, completely compelling and hard hitting. This is the best 'cancer' film I've seen, and proof positive that Kurosawa is a master.
Rating: 4.5/5

Singin' In the Rain

Release Year: 1952
Review: Recognized as one of the best classic musicals, 'Singin' in the Rain' had always been at the top of my 'to watch' list. I'm not a fan of musicals in general, so I went into this film a bit wary. To my surprise the film holds up remarkably well. The film is about the transition from silent films to 'talkies' and makes for a compelling commentary on that tumultuous era in cinema. Some of the musical numbers did drag a bit, but for the most part were entertaining. This is a great film. A true classic, and one of the best films about Hollywood ever made.
Rating: 4/5