Waking Sleeping Beauty (2009)

Documentary about the artistic and economic circumstances that led to Disney’s so-called Renaissance of the eighties and nineties (think Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin).

Interesting, not only for the information it presented but also for what it was clearly striving, quietly but arduously, to sweep under the rug.

Watch it if you’re a film nerd who likes animation, or if you’re a big fan of Disney in general.

It nearly inspired me to write a lengthy essay and send it to Disney. Almost.

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)

Intriguingly strange, at best. Horrifyingly depraved and depressing at worst.

Not fun by any means, despite the (now) cult-classic lines from Johnny Depp as Hunter S. Thompson.

Kind of felt dirty and nauseated by the end of it. Maybe that was the point?

Discomfort as the goal of the movie… hmm. I don’t know how I feel about this just yet. In fact, I couldn't even really pick many labels for the movie. Horror, I guess, was the only one that I felt could be accurately applied.

Overall—know what you’re getting yourself into before watching this one.

Winter's Bone (2010)

Unique story, uncommon setting, great acting.

Dragged in some parts, somewhat unconvincing as a whole.

Best picture? No. Totally worthwhile? Depends on your taste.

Overall—pretty good. Watch it if you like a feeling of brooding, the Ozarks, and very strong female protagonists.