The weeks leading up to Halloween are full of spooky festivities and while the holiday is celebrated across America, it”s not for everyone. For those who love the month but not the holiday, fall is a great time to explore the world of foreign films. Currently, the Kenworthy is interspersing international movies to complete an international film series. Though there are too many amazing movies to pinpoint a favorite, here is a solid list that will take anyone on a journey to the beautiful countries and cultures where these films were produced.
“Ida”
Although it may seem that this movie was filmed during the time period it was set in –1950″s Poland – it is a fairly recent flick. Nominated for multiple awards across the world, the film won “Best Foreign Language Film” at the Oscars in 2013 along with 62 other awards. Shot in beautiful black and white, this movie documents a soon-to-be nun that must first discover the unknown story of her orphan past before she can be fully committed to her calling. This film is studded with unforgettable characters mixed with beautiful scenarios that somehow make the viewer feel in the middle of it all, while very naïve at the same time.
Will Meyer
“Jules et Jim”
One of the most iconic French films ever produced, this 1962 story blew all other love tales out of the water upon its debut. Perhaps the very first ménage-a-trois portrayed on film, best friends Jules and Jim eventually fall in love with the same girl. If you”re in the mood for a great, lighthearted movie that will challenge everything you believe about love, “Jules et Jim” is the film for you.
“Breathless” (À Bout de Souffle)
Throughout history, Paris has been the city for lovers. “Breathless” immortalized this idea, bringing into the limelight two very beautiful people in this very beautiful town. Michel has committed a crime and reinvests in Patricia, hoping he can convince her to run away with him to Italy. This process is the storyline of “Breathless”, an irresistible and apparently accurate look into the lives of young Parisians in the 60″s. Realistic and utterly romantic, “À Bout de Souffle” will brew a yearning for an extra-long vacation in the City of Light in the heart of anyone who is a hopeless romantic.
“Cinema Paradiso”
Many or most people have a place they specifically connect with their childhood. For young Salvatore, this is the local theater in his hometown on the Italian coast. Growing up in a time of war, the movies are his constant refuge from the outside world-first as a viewer, then as an employee. The film brings the audience into an ethereal past of love and separation, an archetypal experience that most can understand all too well.
“The Wind That Shakes the Barley”
The Irish war for independence has appeared and reappeared for the last century more or less. The initial military endeavors that took place are the highlight of this Palm d”Or Best Film award winner. Following the path of Damien O”Donovan, the characters fight against British oppression during a time when it was all any Irishman knew. Those seeking an engaging and informative film that documents a little talked about event will find it in “The Wind That Shakes the Barley”.
Will Meyer can be reached at [email protected]