Alice in Wonderland on acid

Chinatown (USA, 1974, Paramount), set in the mid-1930s, is reminiscent of today’s issues of the rich and powerful. Inspired by real people and events, it’s Polanski’s homage to the golden age of film noir and it’s a masterpiece, trumping most of the films it idolizes; a labyrinthine, bizarre mystery that — like the characters — is full of soul-shattering secrets that leave you both devastated and exhilarated. Available on Amazon and VUDU.

Reviews raved over Spirited Away’s tale of a Japanese girl going into a fantasyland (Japan, 2001, Gkids). I didn’t think I liked anime but I went, and halfway through I leaned over to my best, most cynical friend and said, “I don’t want this movie to ever end.”

“Me either,” he responded.

It’s been called “Alice in Wonderland on acid.” Nah. It’s like falling into your favorite dream...not the exact dream but the state of awe and wonder you swim in. It’s the most magical film I’ve seen. Available on Amazon and Netflix.

— Jonathan Hammond, server, writer, director, actor, film obsessor