Cambridge Film Festival 2005 – Day 1

The shock of events in London dampened the spirits somewhat on this
first day of the festival. Nevertheless, the event went ahead as
planned, and I managed to see 3 films.

3 Iron [Ki-duk Kim, 2004] – UK Premiere – 4/7

I can see how the bizarre and somewhat surreal directions the
storyline takes in this slow moving Korean film could infuriate some,
but I found the whole thing hugely enjoyable. What is particularly
satisfying is the way in which the central dialogue-free relationship
at the heart of the film is so carefully and beautifully realised.
Such delicate tenderness is then nicely juxtaposed with sudden bouts
of chilling violence. With Ki-duk Kim's real flare for cinematic
imagery, the film provides a rich, if somewhat peculiar cinematic
experience.

The Last Mitterand – UK Premiere [Robert Guediguian, 2005]

With its unassuming style, stunning central performance, and
meticulous observation of character, this film is a real treat. It
has a witty and insightful script, which manages to portray both a
world at a particular social, political and economic turning point,
and the difficulties of truly understanding the past.

Los Debutantes – UK Premiere [Andres Waissbluth, 2003]

The now familiar technique of telling the same story from different
points of view helps to sustain interest in this competent if rather
uninspired film. In the end, though, it never rises above the
average, and is spoiled by an unsatisfactory plot resolution.