Films: November 3 - 9

Three Days Of The Condor (1975) 
The Monkey (2025) 
Suzume no Tojimari (Suzume) (2022) 
Lucy (2014) 
Maintenance Required (2025)

De Ballonvaarder (The Balloonist) (2025)

A Snapshot Of Forever (2022) ///

Three Days Of The Condor (1975) Building from abrupt violence at unremarkable CIA research office, gripping paranoia informs Robert Redford's attempt to escape assassin Max von Sydow and reveal agency corruption. Able support from unknowing Faye Dunaway, traditional thriller structure is fused with coldy detailed anxiety.

The Monkey (2025) Structured around visually distinct, unrepentantly gory set pieces, haunted Theo James faces childhood horrors when windup toy returns after twenty-five years to spark new series of killings. More intent of savage laughs than dealing with cohesive narrative, thematic concerns rapidly jettisoned along with tension.

Suzume no Tojimari (Suzume) (2022) Vibrantly realized visuals and persuasively played characters as titular teen stumbles across supernatural threat that propels her on chase across Japan with talking stool and insolent cat. Spurred by elevating score, uneven structure entwines ambitious concerns with personal coming-of-age.

Lucy (2014) Energetically unsubtle sci-fi action injects unknowing Scarlett Johansson with synthetic drug that expands mental capacity while she's chased by criminal gang and disbelieving authorities. Not much makes sense and tension evaporates beyond glossy surface, relying on lead's gutsy charm and trippy conclusion.

Maintenance Required (2025) Derivative setup has romantically insecure mechanic Madelaine Petsch establish online friendship, not knowing identity of fellow car enthusiast is reluctant corporate Jacob Scipio, sent to undermine her neighborhood garage. Drifting romance not helped by ponderous pace and muddy soundtrack.

De Ballonvaarder (The Balloonist) (2025) Initial ironic tragedy leaves practical, stifled Sallie Harmsen caring for son and mother on traditional chicken farm until swaggering new neighbour Pieter Embrechts crash lands into her life. Earthy visuals match layered characters, without emotions catching fire.

A Snapshot Of Forever (2022) Escaping romantic disappointment for small town roots and photographic work at family vineyard, reluctant Natalie Dreyfuss is drawn to conflicted movie star Anthony Konechny during wedding week. Unpersuasive narrative structure not aided by lethargic pace and static staging.