upstream color
There are films that are good and there are films that speak to you on another level. Upstream Color is one of those films. It was my most anticipated film of Sundance this year and it did not disappoint. Somehow I knew that it couldn’t. The story has too many facets to summarize with any fairness, so I’ll point you in the direction of the below trailer which touches on enough of it, without spoiling anything.
There are a few things about Upstream Color that make it so utterly wonderful. For one, it has a perfect balance of romance, mystery and science; a combination that makes all the parts of my mind perfectly content. Beyond that, I was really impressed by the way the story was told, with intriguing visuals and complementary dialogue. It’s all too common these days for films to over explain things or show you as well as tell you what is going on. Film is a visual medium and should be used as such. Tiny gaps in a story, like with memory, allow your imagination to connect the pieces to make a broader picture.
All the elements come together at top form to make this film work. Amy Seimetz gives a stellar performance. The sound design, an integral element in the film, is also superb. I could go on singing praise for this film for days. I’ve been a fan of Primer, director Shane Carruth’s first film, since I saw it back in 2005 and Upstream Color just builds on the filmic principles he set up back then.
I know Upstream Color won’t be for everyone, but it is certainly for me. I recommend you see it, when it is released in April. Or if you’re in Austin, check it out at SXSW this year. I personally can’t wait to see it again.
a few days in Austin
We’re still in Austin and it has been quite the wild ride. We’ve been rushing around seeing movies all week and have barely had a moment to rest. It’s been great. When I arrived it was cold and pouring rain. Yesterday it was sunny and 80°. We haven’t had a ton of time to explore restaurants like we usually do, but have hit up some really awesome spots anyway. I love that nearly every place serves drinks in jars. It’s fun. I tried boba / bubble tea for the first time ever and it was so good, I think I’m obsessed.
Just wanted to check in and share a few snap shots from the past few days, and say I’ll be back soon!
Oh! Also, I did a little guest post over at Unstitched, check it out here.
off we go
For the next week I’ll be the fabulous Austin, Texas for SXSW.
I am SO EXCITED. It’s our first time going to SXSW and I’ve only heard great things. We’re going to see so many films, which is basically my dream week. Oh also, we’re staying in an airstream, which is pretty much the coolest.
We’ve only been to Austin once before, and we had so much fun. I hope we have time to do some exploring in the city. Sadly the weather forecast looks rainy the whole time, but that’s not getting me down.
Do you have any favorite places in Austin? I haven’t done any planning (oops!) so I’d gladly take suggestions for places to eat or shops I can’t miss.
