The Wasteland Reviewer

The Wasteland Reviewer Recommends (March 9th, 2025)

This series will highlight my weekly journey through previously released films, whether they are rewatches for me or new discoveries. Here are my picks:      

3 Women (1977)

What kind of dreams did legendary director Robert Altman have? One of dreams inspired the surrealist and impressionist drama 3 Women which is one of his most praised efforts. This film has an eerie and engrossing dreamlike feel. This film navigates the heightened tensions between a gregarious and overly confident woman (Shelley Duvall) and a shy young woman (Sissy Spacek) as they become roommates. A traumatic event completely shifts their personalities and dynamics. This film is an engrossing and compelling exploration of dreams, female dynamics, and motherhood. Altman’s ambitious drama has great performances, arresting tension, and a fascinating package to explore.

Iris (2001)

How British do you enjoy your movies? Iris is incredibly British, and director Richard Eyre captures such a specific feel that is unique for such dramas. The parallel tale of Iris Murdoch and husband John Bayley in their younger years as well as their later years makes for a compelling and engaging experience. The electricity that Kate Winslet and Judi Dench both bring as Iris is fantastic and their magnetic performances alone are worth the price of admission. Jim Broadbent and Hugh Bonneville do great work as well as Bayley. This is a lean 90-minute film that tackles a challenging topic like Alzheimer’s. Raw and moving, this is a worthy biopic that boasts a strong cast that keeps you connected.

Castello Cavalcanti (2013)

What does Castello Cavalcanti have to do with Prada? Not sure…but Wes Anderson crafts an engaging and charming little short film here. The colors and production design are vibrant yet also lived in which makes for an engrossing and unique experience. There are some limited stunts in this short focus on a race. Jason Schwartzman is a charismatic lead for this little film as he certainly makes an impact and knows how to sell Anderson’s dialogue. There is a nice message about slowing down and embracing family and your roots that just bolsters this charming little film. Microdose from Anderson with this charming short film.