Dear readers,
I wanted to take a moment to share a bittersweet update: I’ve decided to pause The Film Fix—formerly Joe’s Video Club—for the time being. There are a few reasons for this.
First the good news: I recently signed a contract to publish a book! It’s the culmination of my research on civic engagement and media. I’m equally excited and terrified, and, naturally, the writing process will demand a good chunk of my free time and creative energy.
Second, as many of you know, Thor’s passing reshaped my daily routine. I’ve been spending more time outside and offline lately, which naturally means less time to watch movies and draft my reactions. But worry not, my dear readers. This isn’t a cry for help, and I’m not in some pit of paralyzing sadness. Life take us on unexpected detours. That’s all.
Third, I’ve been feeling increasingly frustrated with recent film releases (and by “recent,” I mean the last ten years). We’re in a creativity slump, and the film industry is taking a big hit. Cinema used to be a space for provocative stories that challenged the status quo, explored new ideas, and offered glimpses into lives beyond the prestige set.
Now, most of it feels sanitized and riskless, a blob of stories from the same places, told in the same ways, chasing the same safe ideas. But I’ll spare you the “everything-sucks” rant. Simply put, my enthusiasm for watching movies has waned. Still, some of you may wonder: Well, what’s a “good,” ProVOcAtIVe movie according to your IMPECCABLE taste, Your Majesty?
Below are 10 relatively unknown gems from the last 25 years that will be like nothing you’ve ever seen. It’s no coincidence that most are more than 10 years old. Consider them a going-away gift…
The Woodsman (2004) — Kevin Bacon is phenomenal in this difficult-to-watch but unique film.
Brad’s Status (2017) — Ben Stiller is the avatar of a midlife crisis as he accompanies his son on college tours.
The One I Love (2014) — Couple’s therapy with a sci-fi twist.
The Wolfpack (2015) — The Angulo brothers grew up locked away in an apartment, with movies as their only window into the outside world.
Predestination (2014) — A fascinating exploration of identity and the nature of the self, masquerading as a B-movie.
The Deep End (2001) — Tilda Swinton will go to great lengths to protect her estranged gay son.
The Imposter (2012) — A batshit-crazy documentary about family secrets, deception, and stolen identities.
Hounds of Love (2016) — This Australian psychological thriller goes down like a Tipperary with a drop of battery acid.
C.R.A.Z.Y. (2005) — A bittersweet, Christmas-themed coming-of-age story about self-acceptance and family expectations. Also, great soundtrack!
Miss Stevens (2016) — Lily Rabe and Timothée Chalamet play a teacher and student who have more in common than they think.
Thank you all so much for your support and thoughtful comments over the past year. This isn’t goodbye. Just a pause. I genuinely hope to be back soon, with new takes and my usual snark.
Until then,
Joe
Wishing you the best for the writing process and getting back into a comfortable routine! Always appreciate your wisdom and will keenly await your return. Thanks for the recs, too! Hounds of Love is brilliantly shot with some outstanding performances, but man, is it hard to watch
Good luck with your book, Joe!