Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the House of God

English

Documentary

2012

*****

This documentary by Alex Gibney, is about the first known protest against pedophilia abuse by clergy in the US by four deaf men. For the most part, it is about one priest, who was never brought to trial, either by civil authorities or the Church, and who died a priest. The victims are interviewed, close-ups of their hands and faces. If you've never seen American Sign Language, this is a treat to see how expressive and beautiful it is. This film may shock you, it may outrage you, but I think it may give you some hope, too. It is not a condemnation of the Church, nor is it an apologia. It presents the facts as known. And makes me wonder just exactly why Cardinal Ratzinger left his post as Pope when he did. The music is, well, divine.

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The Lannisters are Coming, the Lannisters are Coming.

Game of Thrones, Season 3

English

Series

2013

I feel pretty silly reviewing a blockbuster like GoT. I do know there are a few out there who haven't seen it, and I can't help but wonder why? Yes, it's bloody. Yes, it's gory. Yes, it's adult with sex, nudity, and some damn fine acting, directing, and costuming. And, yes, everyone you come to like is probably going to die. So, why aren't you watching it? It stars Peter Dinklage in one of his best ever roles (I say that about everything I see him in).  If you want to read everything but the books, use Google. If you want to join in intelligent discussions with all your friends, watch the series. (Not streamed, and now you know the REAL reason I went back to discs instead of streaming)

Madadayo (Not Yet)

Japanese (good subtitles)

134 minutes

1993

*****

Kurosawa's final film based on the literary works of real-life Japanese author, Uchida. Honestly, it looked boring, but was a delightful insight into the more modern Japanese culture. When the Professor turns 60, he retires, and his students, all male, celebrate his birthday every year with him. They care for him and his wife, and when their house is destroyed by allied air raids, they eventually build one for them. A sensitive and touching movie, it deals with the transition between retirement and death. Every year when the students would throw the party, they would ask, Maadha kai? (are you ready) and the Professor would respond, Madadayo ('not yet'). If growing old and dying frightens you, you may want to view this. If the Japanese culture intrigues you, you will want to view this. No fighting, swords, or adrenalin.

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