A Focus Feature for My Every Mood

I had the recent opportunity to go to a screening of "Pariah", an independent film presented by Focus Features. This intense little ride reminded me why I tend to seek offbeat cinematic entertainment. Indie flicks take the kinds of risks that we could only imagine in our brains. Focus Features happens to be the powerhouse behind many of these films. In scanning my extensive Netflix rentals, I picked out several that represent my various whimsical moods.

When I Want to Travel Back in Time (but not too far): "Far From Heaven" (2002)

There is something about Julianne Moore's acting that mesmerizes me. In "Far from Heaven" she perfects that antsy, compulsive 50s wife. The pristine lifestyles of these housewives are intoxicating to watch. But the story is deeper than the Stepford Wife cinematography would imply.

To Satisfy My Curiosity About L.A. Natives: "Sugar Town" (1999)

For some reason, I enjoy watching movies that chronicle the lives of the jaded in Los Angeles. "Sugar Town" happens to be one of the most understated indie films ever. The snarky jabs taken at various Hollywood lifestyles are hilarious, played out in a tidy, well paced little film.

When I Need Something "A Little French": "Swimming Pool" (2003)

Every once in a while, I'm in the mood to see a foreign film that will totally transport me. I like watching French people sip out of little cups, and randomly undress in front of strangers they've just met in a countryside cafe. That isn't exactly the plot of "Swimming Pool"; but the lush setting and flippant dialogue satisfies my craving every time.

When I Just Want To Look at Jake Gyllenhaal: "Brokeback Mountain" (2005)

I wasn't sure whether I would like this movie. Not because of the content, but rather--because I'm not into cowboy flicks. The story was completely engrossing. And seeing Jake Gyllenhaal in a cowboy hat and tight jeans is icing on the cake. Another added bonus: any footage that contains the late Heath Ledger.

When I'm Feeling Sappy: "Something New" (2006)

I'll admit that I get the hankering for a romantic comedy now and again. When I want to watch something with pretty people and a warm and fuzzy storyline, I reach for movies like this.

When I'm Feeling Nostalgic: "Wet, Hot, American Summer" (2001)

I like nothing more than a good 80s film…except modern movies made to look like 80s films. Those are good too. "Wet, Hot, American Summer" is a visual journey of pubescent proportions.

When I Need to Practice My Spanish: "Sin Nombre" (2009)

There are tons of wonderful Latin American films bubbling to the surface of my brain. But few are as intense and emotional as "Sin Nombre."

When I Feel Like Taking a Mind Trip: "Being John Malkovich" (1999)

Sure, there are other movies that cover mind-bending material just as well. But they don't have John Malkovich. This black comedy is like a bizarre, winding nightmare. And I like that.

When I'm Having an ADHD moment: "Traffic" (2000)

I must admit that I do have a peculiar weakness for films with big ensemble casts. The more intense these movies, the better. "Traffic" is the perfect piece of cinema, linking and criss-crossing stories---packed with actors I love. It's like watching three telenovelas at the same time.

When I'm Feeling Militant…Sort Of: "Talk to Me" (2007)

I am convinced that the SNL character Leon "The Ladies Man" Phelps was based on radio host/activist Petey Greene. Don Cheadle is the rambunctious Petey. But instead of dishing pillow talk and Courvosier, he's serving up revolution.

SOURCES:

www.movies.yahoo.com