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Isole (2011)
The Reality Of Paradise
Ivan, whom is apparently a gypsy from one of the Balkan countries, is in Italy illegally and forced to find odd jobs that hire illegals. His construction labor job on a small island off the coast turns out to be a scam leaving Ivan with no money to get off the island. After getting beat up by some of the island locals he is luckily assisted by Martina, a young woman with an apparent mental handicap. While getting medical care Martina introduces Ivan to Don Enzo, a retired priest whom is recuperating from a stroke and whom is also Martina's caretaker. Since both Don Enzo and Martina need caretakers now Ivan is recruited to be their caretaker/housekeeper. Soon Ivan and Martina develop feelings for each adding further complications to the pseudo family being formed. Gritty, down to earth slice of life, profile of people doing what they can in less than ideal situation and with the backdrop of a beautiful yet gritty island off the coast. Interesting and edifying for those that enjoy looking at life in an interesting cultural setting.
Cow (2021)
Cows are beautiful animals
This is a relatively nice dairy farm. If this bothers you then don't go see a mechanized dairy farm in the USA. Those are truly horrific. On this farm the young cows at least get some time to enjoy pasturing. Would be great if all dairy farms were held to the standard of care depicted in this film. But Americans want cheap cows milk and cheap beef, pork, chicken etc. And they are apparently willing to turn a blind eye to the abominal torture the animals are put through. It is a sad commentary on human nature that we treat our machines better than we treat our animals.
That said this is a great view of a relatively small, well run dairy farm. The animals are beautiful, especially the young ones. The viewer can absolutely feel the anguish of the mom being separated from her offspring. The head burning is how they keep the horns from growing. Personally I don't see why we humans consume so much cow's milk. It is meant for baby cows not for us. I switched to almond milk years ago. But I do still like to have cheese on occasion and ice cream on special days. Here is hoping that many people switch to plant based milk and then the dairy farms can be made to be like the one in this film.
Jak jsme hráli cáru (2014)
Overlooked gem!
I can't believe no one has reviewed this. It is very hard to find and was probably never released in the USA but there are English subtitles available. It is a slice of life of a Prague family living during Soviet control times. The young boy is literally a hostage since his parents escaped to Austria and the government will not let him join them without papers. The boy stays with grandparents and much of the film is from the boy's perspective. The IMDB summary describes the film succinctly. It is a very touching film and reminds us of our childhood no matter where we were brought up. In that way it is reminiscent of Stephen King's Stand By Me. The grandfather is one that everyone would love to have. I can't recommend this film enough if you can find it. I think Amazon has it, at least they did because that's how it came to my attention. Can't believe this didn't get an Oscar nomination although the Academy may only consider films released in the US.