What to watch in cinemas this week | Jan. 2–8
From Ground Zero, Nosferatu, Queer, Se7en, and Paprika.
Each week I provide a somewhat-curated list of films to see in cinemas. Meant as more of a resource than weekly essay, you can refer to this series whenever you feel like going to the movies. Also, can check out previous weeks’ selections because those films might still be in theaters.
Recommendation of the week (U.S. only)
From Ground Zero (Rashid Masharawi et al.)
is a collection of 22 short films from Palestinian filmmakers shot during the genocide in Gaza. The documentary was pushed through by Palestinian filmmaker Rashid Masharawi, along with Michael Moore to receive U.S. attention—and subsequent Oscar short-listing. The filmmakers who contributed: Wissam Moussa, Nidal Damo, Ahmed Hassouna, Alaa Ayoub, Karim Satoum, Bashar Al Babisi, Khamis Masharawi, Nida’A Abu Hasna, Tamer Nijim, Ahmed Al Danaf, Rima Mahmoud, Muhammad Al Sharif, Basil El Maqousi, Mustafa Al Nabih, Rabab Khamis, Mustafa Kulab, Alaa Damo, Hana Eleiwa, Mahdi Kreirah, Aws Al Banna, Islam Al Zeriei, and Etimad Washah. During a screening at a film festival in London, a producer reportedly made a statement that all filmmakers are still alive, not something one wants to hear at the cinema.
Plot bio: “From Ground Zero” is a compelling project that brings together 22 short films created by talented filmmakers from Gaza. Launched by Rashid Masharawi, a notable Palestinian filmmaker, the initiative emerged amid the backdrop of conflict, aiming to provide a platform for young artists to express themselves through their craft. Each film, ranging from 3 to 7 minutes, presents a unique perspective on the current reality in Gaza. The project captures the diverse experiences of life in the Palestinian enclave, including the challenges, tragedies, and moments of resilience faced by its people. With a mix of genres such as fiction, documentary, docu-fiction, animation, and experimental cinema, “From Ground Zero” showcases a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the sorrow, joy, and hope inherent in Gazan life.
Currently on a short international film festival run without planned screenings outside of the USA, which it’s doing to qualify for the Oscars.
German releases
Nosferatu (Robert Eggers)
Queer (Luca Guadagnino)
wasn’t something I liked very much at Venice, but I was sick and it was nine in the morning. I might watch this week as it’s the Mubi go pick of the week. In short, it’s gay james bond in Mexico.
Special mention
Se7en (David Fincher)
is returning to theaters as part of an IMAX re-release for its quarter-century anniversary. Definitely worth checking out. As well as…
Paprika (Satoshi Kon)
is the answer to the question: is there a Japanese animated film very similar in its conception of dreams to Inception made by one of the great filmmakers/writers? That’s right folks, Paprika is coming back to theaters for the Satoshi Kon fest.
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