Kimi (2022)

MORE REVIEWS @ https://www.msbreviews.com/ "KIMI contains the narrative potential and impactful cinematography that movies by Steven Soderbergh (No Sudden Move) always have, but not even a superb performance from Zoë Kravitz (The Batman) can hide some issues with the developed themes. Technologically, the proximity of this world to ours is frighteningly realistic, but the attempts to tackle agoraphobia and invasion of privacy aren't all successful. The protagonist's arc focuses on her ability to overcome past trauma, something that is mostly well-done. However, the abrupt conclusion of the whole story not only lessens and simplifies PTSD but raises numerous plot-related logical questions, in addition to a moral one concerning stalking. It will likely create some division within the general audience." Rating: C

NEW SODERBERGH! NEW SODERBERGH! It’s three in the morning, but I’m gonna try and put down some coherent thoughts. This is exactly what I expected from a Soderberg thriller, and I mean that in the best way possible. I love his work and this is no exception. The technical filmmaking elements here are great: camerawork, editing, and its general sense of scene-to-scene rhythm. Feels methodical and elegant while still being fun and watchable. There are quite a few sequences that will stick with me for a while. Like how personal the stakes are in this and how well Zoë Kravitz handles her role. Reminded me a lot of Aneesh Chaganty’s Run in the way it frames and establishes its story. The biggest problems for me: It loses some of its rhythm around the middle and doesn’t feel as fleshed out as it could have been. Given how much I love David Koepp’s other works, I was a bit sad to see a lot of my qualms falling to the story writing/structuring. Few problems aside, I had a great time! Guess I’ll have to check out No Sudden Move now 👀 Side note: Watched this down in my room which means my HomePod Mini was looming right below my screen the whole time. Considering that the 4D experience.

Hadn’t stopped thinking about this since I first watched it, so I finally revisited it! Loved it even more this time around. The score and cinematography still might be my favorite aspects of this, it curates a thrilling and functional style. The direction and performances stood out to me a little more on this viewing to, sublime stuff. Hitchcock-influenced Soderbergh is too powerful.