Colossal (2016) - 2/5

This movie has a solid pulp sci-fi setup that doesn’t know where to go with the premise. It pretends to be about abusive relationships but has very muddled messaging that wrecks the landing. Characters do dumb, out-of-character things apparently to pad the runtime, and the resolution doesn’t make up for the annoyance along the way.

Closest comparison: It’s like the small-town self-reflection of The Majestic combined with the one-note indie sci-fi of Primer.

Setting: Small Town Drama
Plot: Short Story Sci-Fi
Tone: Relationship Drama

The Cat Returns (2002) - 4/5

This movie is exactly the sort of adorable modern fairy tale we’ve come to expect from Studio Ghibli. It’s cute and funny, and has the lyrically anomalous pacing emblematic of the Ghibli line. It’s directed by Morita, but if you like Miyazaki movies and haven’t seen it, you owe it to yourself to check this one out.

Closest comparison: It’s somewhere between Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro and My Neighbor Totoro.

Setting: Fairy Tale/Modern
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Fairy Tale Adventure

The Devil Wears Prada - 5/5

This movie is simultaneously a gorgeous symphony of style and a scathing critique of the fashion world, but instead of being limited to one industry its searing witticisms are broadly applicable. The acting is top tier, and there is subtlety conveyed in every line that adds depth and complexity to the characters and plot. Despite its brightly colorful cinematography the world it presents is gray, with every character’s motivations a mix of selfish and altruistic, though the excellent script keeps things clear for the audience. The total effect is a fairly standard setup with exceptional execution every step of the way.

Closest comparison: It’s like Goodfellas in the trappings of Sex And The City.

Setting: Self-actualization
Plot: Fish out of water
Tone: Comedy Drama