Manhunter (1986)

So irresistibly 80s! Cold melancholy and psychosexual crime, choices between duty or ego, style paired with substance. Reflectively ponders protagonist/antagonist dualities using innovative cinematography – plus a cheesy soundtrack.

Surprisingly tender and subdued, though. In my book.

Contemplating the impossible mysteries of love, sacrifice and death. A famous myth masterfully reworked – tinged with imaginative touches of thriller and horror.

In my strange, dreamy book of resurrection.

– What is a poet?

– A writer that doesn't write.

Racism, courage, and justice – divine or worldly. Plus one of film's finest fathers!

In my book of strange names.

Hope flickers faintly in this female coming-of-age story set in an aggressively tough world where guards are seldom lowered.

In my book of liberating, connecting – and degrading – dance power.

– What are you looking for?

– Nothing.

Might makes right as old ways clash violently with new, while unexpected glimpses of a far more modern movie seem to surface now and then. In my book.

– There's no living with a killing. There's no going back.

Shame and family are the crucial concepts explored in this feelgood flick with an edge.

Maybe not always 100% convincing, but definitely in my kitchen sinkish book.

»Always blame the americans. Even if you're wrong«

Зеркало [The mirror] (1975)

»Words can't express anything a person feels«. Quite true, I guess, but bear with me as I will try anyway.

Generations are confusingly superimposed as seemingly irrelevant and unconnected events are brought together – a cabin in the woods, an absurd balloon scene, a book with Lionardo da Vinci's art, the spanish civil war. Trivial everyday events are elevated to the sublime in this slow, anecdotal, and lyrical tale mixing inner and outer experience, individual and political reflection, documentary and autobiographical fragments. A quiet, mysterious tenderness reigns, repeatedly accompanied by Tarkovsky's still and gentle magic of fire and running water.

Impossible to follow properly. Still in my book of remembrance, lament, and the importance of proofreading in a totalitarian society.

The Ghost and Mrs Muir (1947)

»I always wanted to be considered obstinate«

A sentimental, cosy, and at times corny gothic tale of independence and inner growth, aided by a parodic sea-dog. Exceedingly silly and morally somewhat contradictory, but also unusually endearing and goodhearted. In my most charming book.

»You can be much more alone with other people than you are by yourself«

Восхождение [Ascent] (1977)

Frozen, hungry partisans and poor peasants endure extreme hardships and unknowingly make a succession of wrong choices, having to face the grave consequences. A wounded, sick soldier takes on aspects of some mystic saviour of souls. Everyone's inner compass is ruthlessly scrutinized.