Student Film Reviews

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1. Jorge Ruiz 03.07.17 / 8pm

   Upon reading the review of the film, The Party, the movie strikes me as interesting all around. This is read from, the review introducing us to a bunch of characters who all seem to be having problems of their own. For example the same sex couple attempting to have a child and the high financier, who seems to be snorting a lot of cocaine. I believe this film brings a lot of meaning to different perspectives and points of view, that can happen all the same time as other people, making the audience realize that the world does not only revolve around them but around everyone. The director really seems to connect all these characters very well as to the reviewer left some great comments!
2. RyanPalmer 03.08.17 / 10am

   The review for the film presented by Larry Gleeson did a wonderful job of describing the film. It is interesting that when a party takes place and people are brought together all the different life stories play a wonderful role in the structure of the evening. Happiness, Sadness, Anger, and Jealousy seem to all be apart of this film for which it would make a good watch!
3. Lawrence Gleeson 03.09.17 / 7am

   That’s so true, Ryan! In addition, the director constructs a narrative in a fast and efficient manner full of humor that left the audience in stitches.
4. Zack Stockton 03.08.17 / 7pm

   The film, The Party seems to me like a well put together comedy. The review starts with the beginning scene and I already can imagine the different type of comedy that is trying to be portrayed. The way that the new characters are brought in one-by-one makes the audience focus on one thing at a time and not to focus on too many people on the screen. The wide range of characters that these two people plan to party with are not the typical friends that a lot of people have. This couple has friends that like cocaine and an interracial couple. These are definitely interesting people
5. Lawrence Gleeson 03.09.17 / 7am

   It was a very fun film. The dialogue and banter was quite quick. Some of the humor was deadpan. Some was biting sarcasm. And some was very apparent. All of it, however, was delivered with speed and efficiency.
6. Nicholas Chugranis 03.09.17 / 6pm

   This movie seems extremely interesting, and I hope to one day see it. It seems as if the plot has a lot of depth and the characters are worked out very well. Potter did a very good job including a lot for the characters to work with, and it shows in the way that the movie flows seamlessly. For example, the characters each get very little introduction, but one by one, w meet another character and more is learned.
7. Jake McMullen 03.09.17 / 11pm

   The Reviews author, Larry Gleeson does a fantastic job when summarizing
   The film to describe the plot while also summarizing the other aspects of the film like the films general structure of bringing in characters to the story staggered one after another as a device to advance the plot in stages and themes throughout the film. Larry Gleeson makes sure to reassure the reader that the fashion in which the director executes the plot, is masterful, using words like Imaginatively Expertly and artfully as a precursor to description or fact. The review is incredibly positive which does make me question the value of Larry’s prais.
8. Brenin Booko 03.10.17 / 10am

   After reading this review of the film, The Party, I am extremely intrigued. Personally, I have never watched a dark comedy before, so I am interested in seeing what one would be like. I was very excited to read that this is a black and white film. I have only seen throwback black and white films; I have not watched a black and white film that was created recently. This film seems easy to relate to in todays society. Jinny and Martha excite me the most out of all the characters. They seem like a very exhilarating couple and very realistic.
9. Sam Arnold 03.10.17 / 10am

   What initially drew me to this film review before I could even it was the presence of Cillian Murphy. I liked his work as the villain in Batman Begins, but found his performance in the series Peaky Blinders to be more impressive. This review was very thorough and leads me to believe that he’ll play an intriguing role in this film, and along with the rest of the cast, will present an eclectic mix of characters replete with twisted humor and witty dialogue made to capitalize on a volatile plotline. The review paints a picture of an attention-catching and fast paced film, I’ll have to find a way to watch it!
10. Christian Camarena 03.10.17 / 2pm

    The movie review by Larry Gleeson did an excellent job at giving me an overall glimpse of what this movie is about. The way that this review is so detailed makes me feel like I need to watch the film. With the all the positive feedback that this review gives this movie, I feel like I need to watch it. The main character sounds like he will be playing a very dynamic character. I haven’t really watched a lot of dark comedies but I feel like this will be one that will get me to watch many others. I need to find a way to watch this movie.
11. clao2055425 03.10.17 / 4pm

    I really enjoyed this film. I love a good dark comedy drama with morbid humor. It’s humor was simple and entertaining. Not my cup of tea when it comes to black and white films but this one was quite entertaining to watch, not to mention how short it was. I really enjoyed the odd but adventurous cinematography. The characters made what seemed to be a tragedy into something humorous and fun to watch. These are the best kind of films. Even with such an intense plot, they were able to create an fun atmosphere. I would also like to comment on Larry Gleeson’s review on the film. I totally agree that this film one by one brought out the characters and showed who they curiously are. The audience was able to get to know each character.
12. JasmineRamirez 03.10.17 / 5pm

    I like how this review addressed the high points, climax, and explains the narrative of the film in a clear manner. He was able to bring the characters importance and roles that makeup the story and explains how they want to be portrayed showing us some of the struggles or defects that they have going on, as for example the wife who is cheating on her husband, and a successful man who seems to be doing fine by snorting cocaine. This review of the film provides us with the way the production wanted to display each and one of the characters used, because it goes over the important scenes, and going over the cast duties. This film review gives me the idea that it was produced in an organized way.
13. Grace Perry 03.10.17 / 5pm

    Within reading the article my initial interpretation of the film, The Party, was were two main characters, Bill and Janet, in attempt to celebrate decided to throw a party with just their close friends, one that includes many secrets, drugs and sex. As Larry Gleeson introduces character he provide a simple background of their position at the party and how that add to the overall satirical humor that surrounds the film. I believe, though I haven’t seen the film, that it explores the possible emotional journeys of individuals as well as their justification of their actions. The director, from Gleesons description, creates a beautiful and easily flowing film, where the ideas and actions seem to leave no room or time to question as before you can realize, it’s “over and complete”.
14. Jennifer Patten 03.10.17 / 6pm

    I enjoyed the directors choice to film this in black and white over color. Black and white movies sometimes have stigmas of being boring or dull plots. However, the film seems to be the opposite. Introducing different characters to the scene as well as intermixing them with each other is always interesting. There’s just so many stories waiting to unfold, which adds suspense. The way Lary Gleeson describes these characters and the drama waiting to unfold seems very relative to the society we live in. We never know what will happen when people with different problems, perspectives, etc come together. In addition I enjoyed that Lary Gleeson told us what type of angle style frame the film opens with. It gives us a good idea about what we will be viewing without giving away too much.
15. kyle kaufman 03.10.17 / 6pm

    The reviews for this film seem to be very good. I am very interested in seeing this film sometimes in the near future. I am also very interested in political science so this film could also have a big influence on me. I also like how the characters are portrayed as comical. This makes the movie a lot more fun to watch and enjoy, I can’t wait to see this new film!
16. Kiet Nguyen 03.10.17 / 8pm

    Right after I read the review from Larry Gleeson, I am now even more curious on wanting to watch this new comedy movie “The Party”. Comedy genre is one of my favorite type of movie I want to watch in leisure time since laughing gag can make me forget all the stress away. The review, written in details by Larry, give me a broad concept about the narrative, the character and also, the visual artistic of each of the scene. By shooting in black and white tone, combine with unique camera movement from Alexey Rodionov, I believes that this movie will definitely grasp on the dark humor of people’s lives. Finally, the wide range of characters with the appearance of modern day culture does bring in an strong development on each character so the audience can see the humor and have fun react to them as a mean in acknowledge the backstory.
17. wdclark2 03.10.17 / 9pm

    There is nothing better than a good dark comedy. They just tend to smack of the real world and can bring much needed verisimilitude to the screen. “The Party” is a no-holds-barred peek into the lives of a diverse group of characters, performed by a fantastic ensemble cast. The character interaction is indeed snarky, sarcastic, and often downright mean-spirited, but all the better for making a dark comedy. With the rather serious subject matter involved this movie could well be described as a “tragicomedy.” Other examples of tragicomedies could include the 2007 film “Juno” or the 2000 film “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” Probably my all-time favorite dark tragicomedy is the 1970 film “M*A*S*H*”, directed by Robert Altman. By combining the dual elements of comedy and tragedy, a talented director will create an environment for exceptional character development, as Sally Potter does in “The Party.” By interweaving multiple story lines into a cohesive, however dark, narrative, Potter creates one of the funniest films of the year.
18. Landon Trigueiro 03.10.17 / 9pm

    While I was reading this review I got more and more interested in the story and it seems like there is so much that is going on and it seems to keep you on your toes. I thought that they way the lighting is set would make for an interesting experience that I would love to see. I like the fact that they put characters that are homosexual and also characters that have intrapersonal issues because it makes for an exciting movie. I would love to see this and based off of this review I am most likely going to watch it.
19. jason steinbeck 03.11.17 / 11am

    This review by Larry Gleeson on The Party really depicted the film. Gleeson introduced the main characters and their intentions. It seemed to come off as a funny, enjoyable film to throw a party.To Gleeson, the director provides a great flow for the plot. This review has persuaded me to want to watch this film and I am looking forward to it.
20. Lawrence Gleeson 03.11.17 / 5pm

    Thank you, Jason. I found The Party to be quite enjoyable. Superb acting and a tightly woven narrative kept the story moving at a fairly quick pace. Couple the pace with the dialogue and you better hold on to your hat because the dialogue is quick and sharp-witted and before you can say rumplestiltskin, Director Potter, paints a circular swath that is dizzying yet very enjoyable. Would love to read your thoughts on the film, Jason. Thanks again.
21. rcamp36 03.11.17 / 12pm

    Reading your review made me want to watch this movie. I like how you mention toe mise en scene and I like how the director decided to do something different and film the movie in black and white. It seems like the film is busy showing the different lives of different people. I think since the characters in this film go through different scenarios makes you think this movie has an actual literal meaning to it. It is interesting to think that we are in our own world, but actually other people’s worlds and lives affect us as well. This definitely is a film I want to see. Thanks for the review!
22. Lawrence Gleeson 03.11.17 / 5pm

    Thank you. Interesting point on while we think we are in our own world other people’s worlds and lives affect us as well and Director Potter puts it on display on the big screen. The Party is a fun film with some exceptional acting and a tightly woven narrative. Thank you, again.
23. Nicholas LaQuay 03.11.17 / 1pm

    After reading the review of The Party (Potter, 2017), I am certainly intrigued by the concept of the movie. Larry does a great job of highlighting various parts of the film without giving away too much. This allows for interest in the film to be derived from the review without the review exposing the film. Potter seems as if she has a great grasp on diversity as the character descriptions seem to be very different from one another. The film seems to resonate with the fact that everyone is going through something that’s not always visible on the surface. I would definitely give this film a chance.
24. Lawrence Gleeson 03.11.17 / 5pm

    Thanks, Nicholas. Definitely. It’s a wild ride and Director Potter throws a lot at the audience. There’s some heady intellectual bantering going on. There’s also some gritty, realism. The cinematography is quite interesting as well. If you like these three things, you’ll like The Party.
25. Ivan Martinez10 03.11.17 / 9pm

    Upon reading the review for the film The Party, presented by Larry Gleeson. I thought he did a outstanding job of describing the film in the best way possible. I found it interesting how and when the party takes place.Especially how the people are brought together in all the different life stories. It paints a beautiful picture in my head just thinking about it. Especially how it plays an important role in the structure of the evening. I could definitely see the happiness and sadness elements that tie together a good film. It makes it a must watch in my opinion.
26. Lawrence Gleeson 03.12.17 / 9pm

    Thanks, Ivan. I found it a most enjoyable film to watch. The characters were portrayed by a talented cast and the narrative was a real gem. My hat off to Director Potter. While, the film didn’t garner any of the prizes, it was a crowd pleaser. Several viewers stated they came primarily because of who directed the film.
27. mattyoungggg 03.12.17 / 9pm

    After reading the review about “The Party” it really sparked an interest in me to go out and watch the film. The wild plot as described by the review is appealing to me because who doesn’t love watching a clip from a wild party? Perhaps this is a movie I will watch in the future. Although the movie sounds entertaining the review overall was a tad confusing. It was hard to follow in the beginning of the review.
28. Nathali Medina 03.12.17 / 11pm

    The film sounds very interesting. Unfortunately I have not seen any of Sally Potter’s works however am very intrigued by this one in particular because it does give me a familiar ring to the controversy and how that unites the characters in the film, The Celebration directed by Thomas Vinterberg in 1998. I do love that this review doesn’t focus much on the film’s plot but instead focuses on the manner that the film opens up, not so much of what is shown but how its shown. I am very curious to know the intention of presenting the film in black and white. I wonder if that has to be tied with suspense feel of the darkness to compliment the drama of the plotline. Hopefully I get to watch this film soon.
29. Lawrence Gleeson 03.14.17 / 8am

    Excellent connection, Nathali, with Vinterberg’s Celebration. Yes, the controversy of Bill declaring he’s dying does bring the characters to look deep inside themselves. TAnd, that’s a good question as to why Director Potter chose to present the film in black and white. The most obvious reason to me is the morality of the story. Your insight on adding suspense is quite valid and I have to agree it added to the film’s suspense. Thank you again for your comments.
30. kpastuszak 03.13.17 / 6pm

    This specific review, feels a bit less descriptive than the other review. A lot of this review was based on pointing out actor’s names and directing techniques, so I did get a bit confused while trying to understand the plot. Larry did, however, do a great job looking at specific details made by the director of the film. Again, the mentioning of the casting is such a unique perspective on a film and I really enjoy reading about how picking the right actors is important to a film. Gleeson definitely has a great variety filled with many interesting & descriptive words, which makes his reviews really fun to read. This film seems somewhat intriguing, but I’m a bit more attracted to the description of the other film.
31. Lawrence Gleeson 03.14.17 / 8am

    Thank you for your comments. You’re not alone with feeling a bit confused with the plot. The film’s narrative is a bit dizzying. However, in the end, it comes full circle. Therein lies the beauty of the Director Sally Potter’s vision, in my opinion. The actors and the characters they portray are captivating – very distinct and unique. The Party is fast. It’s wooly. And, it’s wild with high art aesthetics weaved in and out. For me, it was a visual pleasure while appealing (and at times challenging) intellectually.
32. Lyndsay Allen 03.17.17 / 4pm

    I think that this film is very interesting that it is in black and white by choice. I think that it gives the film a different mood and style, which is very interesting. I think its unique that your review in particular is a lot about the characters. I guess they must make or break the film. Most of the other comments seem to give a positive perspective and outlook on the film as well. I love a good movie and one that is humorous so I will have to check it out for myself. For some reason I find it fascinating that the film has a lot going on and is in black and white so kind of more (depressing) yet ha comedy to it. I cant wait to see it.
33. Lawrence Gleeson 03.20.17 / 6pm

    Thank you, Lyndsay. I imagine part of the black and white was to complement the noir aspect. The characters were interesting and deliver some deadpan humor along with some intellectual bantering. The dialogue was fast and was a little high-brow as well. Potter packed a lot into The Party in an efficient, quick-hitting fashion. The runtime came in at 71 minutes. When the film ended, I felt astounded at how Potter brought the narrative full-circle with a sleight of hand. Would love to hear your comments! Thank you, again.
34. Brianna Oroz 03.19.17 / 1pm

    This film sounds very interesting and possibly confusing as the plot does seem to get a little tangled in this review, however after reviewing some comments I was able to get a bit more of a understanding. I do appreciate how the director chose to do the film in black and white but, am curious as to how she felt it would add to the film; I believe it may be to add darkness and mystery. Unfortunately I have not seen any of Sally Potter’s films before, but none the less I am very interested in all the subplots that each character adds and how that ties the film together. I hope to watch this film soon
35. Lawrence Gleeson 03.20.17 / 6pm

    I agree, Brianna. The plot isn somewhat tangled. At times, I felt a little out of sorts with the various relationships and partnerships. However, by the film’s end it all fit. I imagine the black and white was, as you mention, to add mystery and darkness, and as a noir aesthetic. Director Potter is very well known and liked in Europe and the UK. At the end of the film all I could say was, “Wow!” Thank you for commenting.
36. Zach Peterson 03.21.17 / 1pm

    This is an extremely interesting piece! It is obvious to see how the black and white display portray such mystery and darkness. It keeps the audience and viewers very intrigued as the plot has a way of being tangled and not allowing an easy description of what is going on. This plot had many different characters and it emphasized on the relationships between these characters. This added to the tangled plot line. The characters are extremely important in this film as they play a key role in relating to the audience. I really enjoyed watching these characters throughout this film and clip.
37. Tyler Hanson 03.26.17 / 9am

    I thought this was very interesting! I think it is very intriguing that they chose to have the film black and white one purpose. I thought this really changed the entire aspect of the film. The characters in this film were very important to the plot because there were so many.
38. kristencalvo 04.12.17 / 12pm

    “The Party” strikes me as very interesting and seems like the kind of movie I would like. I thoroughly enjoyed this review and liked how you mentioned the low angle framing and some juicy details about the characters. I also like how the film is in black and white to really set the mood and tone for the audience.This doesn’t seem like your typical Hollywood narrative and it think thats what intrigues people about this production. I would have to admit I got somewhat lost in the plot but imagine all the part will fit by the end of the movie. Sally Potter sounds like a very accomplished writer and performance writer who in people’s opinion did a great job with putting this film together. Hopefully Ill get a chance to watch it soon!
39. Lawrence Gleeson 04.16.17 / 12pm

    Thank you! I felt the same way watching the film. There were moments where I imagined the film might be a farce. I t certainly has some characteristics of farce. And, yes, it’s far from a typical Hollywood narrative. Potter writes for tv and film and The Party has elements of both. The Party is a fast-paced, with a lot of tongue-in-cheek humor. I’d love to hear your thoughts after you see the film. Thank you, again.
40. ErinBradley 04.21.17 / 3pm

    When I first saw the title of this movie and saw that it was a foreign film, I knew that it wasn’t a classic Hollywood narrative, and based on the rest of the review and a few of the comments, I’d say that I was right. With the narrative being all over the place, and the plot being hard to follow, this film doesn’t sound like something I would want to watch, however I think it would only be fair for me to make a judgment like that, if I actually watched the film. The fact that this is a black and white film, makes me think that adding that element creates a sense of mystery and depth to the film, but I guess I’ll have to see for myself.
41. Lawrence Gleeson 04.21.17 / 5pm

    Thank you, Erin. While it was a bit difficult for me at times to follow the narrative with all the quick-paced dialogue, it was a fun, fun film! Granted, it’s not a Hollywood style film with simple themes and warm emotional moments. Far from it. The humor is much more cerebral. And, it is adult oriented. Director Potter does weave everything together in the end. What makes the film so deliciously entertaining are the characters and a good deal of time is spent introducing them and making the “emotional” connections. Yet, the characters idiosyncrasies are the basis of the film’s humor. Coupling the character-driven narrative with the plot twists and turns are what make this film the gem that it is. Potter is British and so is much of the humor. Ultimately, it’s our the viewer experiences the film that matters. So, if you enjoy British humor, I can say you’ll enjoy The Party. If you see the film, I’d like to hear your thoughts. Thank you, again.
42. sarah_dolan 04.21.17 / 5pm

    I really would love to watch this film! i love the setting and I like the diverse amount of commentary about political and social life that is suggested by the review! I really love the dominated female cast, as well as some quirky suggestive and dark humor. I like the setting because much commentary and real fundamental ideas are most expressed in an casual environment. I love the progression and introduction of the cast as such in a dinner party. and def love the odd nature of behaviors of the characters who are written into this film. Looks very intellectually stimulating as well!
43. Lawrence Gleeson 04.30.17 / 4pm

    Yes, Sarah, very stimulating intellectually. Excellent insight regarding real commentary and expression of fundamental ideas coming in and from a casual environment – definitely at work here in Director Potter’s film. In addition, the suspense kept building just beneath the surface until the closing frame. Potter is very adept and very efficient and I imagine she is so due to her years of working in British television. Nevertheless, this is a whirlwind, feature film that I suspect you’ll enjoy. Would love to hear your comments after you see the film. Thank you, again.
44. geholt 05.10.17 / 7pm

    I particularly love when films feature very different and very complex characters. Between the meditating Gottfried and the cocaine snorting Tom, these characters seem like an absolute joy to watch interact with each other. I was interested to see that the film is in black and white. Noah Baumbach’s Frances Ha is the only comedy I have seen recently in black and white that pulls it off. I am interested to see if that choice ties into the dark comedy. Im also glad to see Cillian Murphy in a comedy. His serious roles have been absolutely amazing recently, particularly with Peaky Blinders. Sarah Potter seems like she has been making waves in the festival circuit so I look forward to seeing her newest.
45. Declan Cassini 06.14.17 / 11pm

    Prior to reading this review I had never so much as heard of this film. However, I must say I am quite intrigued. Any film that builds itself around an eclectic group of complex and contrasting characters instantly piques my interest, and The Party sounds like just that. The way the review describes this film makes me think of films like Guy Richie’s Snatch or Quentin Taratino’s Reservoir Dogs. Films that take place within one or two small settings, focusing instead on the personalities and personal histories of a diverse cast to tell a story. This review has inspired me to seek out this film and watch it on my own time.
46. Daniella Trisler 06.16.17 / 11pm

    I have actually never watched this movie and your review gave me a good over view as to what the movie will be ale without giving away any spoilers. You have successfully persuaded me to want to watch this movie. Good job! It is not easy to persuade me that a movie is good and even before I watch it!
47. Lawrence Gleeson 06.24.17 / 7am

    Good! I do believe you’ll enjoy the film, Daniella. It’s witty and quite clever. I’d like to read your impression after you see it. Thank you.
48. Giulia Iberti 07.11.17 / 8pm

    This is a truly beautifully written review. Not only did it sell me the film, with a great amount of detail, but given the described artistic nature of the film, I’m not left feeling like I know everything there is to know about the movie – with there being no point in watching it (as one so often feels after reading a review or seeing a movie trailer). The fact that the film is a modern black and white film is intriguing to me, I haven’t seen many new films that the directer chooses to shoot in black and white. A film being black and white now means more to me since it means they must think the film is told better without color for whatever reason, instead of it being about technology or money issues. I wonder how I haven’t heard of it, and I will be watching it soon.

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