Casual Critics: The Search for a Lost Musician – A Review of “Searching for Sugar Man”

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Searching for Sugar Man, directed by Malik Bendjelloul, is a documentary that tells the story of an “invisible” musical genius, and his profound influence during the rock n’ roll era. Sixto Rodriguez, a humble and grounded musician, acted as a revolutionary icon for the youth of South Africa throughout the 1970s.

Searching for Sugar Man is a true story that brilliantly depicts the music career of a man that “never existed.” Although Rodriquez touched the hearts of thousands of people, he remained a mystery to the rest of the world. To unveil the mystery of the legendary figure, fans worked together in order to analyze Sixto’s well-written lyrics. His impact was tremendous, but his music was the only piece of him that seemed to exist.

This documentary takes the audience on an adventure in which they can experience the fascinating exploration for the “Sugar Man” himself. Malik Bendjelloul’s incredible artistic abilities comment on the film in a unique way that captivates the audience.

Casual Critics: Heroism Upon Hacksaw – A Review of “Hacksaw Ridge”

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Hacksaw Ridge, directed by Mel Gibson, is a biographical drama based upon the true story and extraordinary life of Desmond T. Doss (played by Andrew Garfield in the film), a man who served as a conscientious objector in the U.S. Army in World War II. Although he participated in one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Doss completely refused to carry any type of firearm during his time as a combat medic. Instilled upon him at an early age was a religious faith that he swore to uphold for the rest of his life.

Of the Ten Commandments, “thou shall not kill” played a huge role in why Doss decided not to carry a weapon amongst the carnage and atrocities surrounding him, while Desmond’s faith as a Seventh-day Adventist compelled him to risk his life in order to save the lives of others. Mel Gibson does an incredible job of depicting the heroic actions of Doss, who was the first conscientious objector to receive a Medal of Honor.

Casual Critics – Inside the Mob Life: A Review of “The Godfather”

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The Godfather, directed by revered filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, is a period drama that realistically depicts the hardships and misfortune associated with the Italian Mafia in the early twentieth century. Coppola’s film tells the fictional story of Vito Corleone and his endeavors as the head of an organized crime family in New York City.

The Godfather allows its audience to become transfixed in the secret, underground dealings of an extremely powerful crime organization that is built upon both trust and fear. However, maintaining this power does not seem to be a simple task, as the Corleone family faces the constant threat of other families who desire their fortune and supremacy. In addition to the film’s well-constructed plot, Coppola remarkably utilizes various film elements in order for the audience to better connect with the characters in an emotional manner. It’s the emotional appeal of The Godfather that makes it one of the greatest films of all time.