Author Archives
My name is AJ Friar. I am a critic and journalist wanting, wanting to expand my horizons rather it be written reviews or conducting interviews showcasing filmmaking.
-
Vincent Pereira’s “A Better Place” gets a director’s cut release on Blu-ray thanks to Smodcastle Cinema.
A Better Place (1997) is an obscure and underappreciated film that quietly resides in the shadows of the more well-known titles in Kevin Smith’s View Askewniverse. Produced by Smith (Dogma) but written and directed by his longtime friend Vincent Pereira… Read More ›
-
“Manas” turns years of research into a sobering drama with intimate and powerful storytelling. [SFFILM]
Manas is a sweeping and emotionally resonant film that lingers long after the credits roll. With breakthrough performances and a poignant human feel that permeates every frame, it is not only a must-watch but also a strong contender for awards… Read More ›
-
The clear potential in “The Devil Smokes” gets hampered by narrative indecision and a need for stronger directorial discipline. [SFFILM]
The Devil Smokes (and Saves the Burnt Matches in the Same Box) (El diablo fuma (y guarda las cabezas de los cerillos quemados en la misma caja)), also listed simply as The Devil Smokes, is an ambitious and visually arresting… Read More ›
-
Dramatic thriller “Honeymoon” examines the emotional erosion of war breeching a newly marital home. [SFFILM]
Zhanna Ozirna’s Honeymoon (Медовий місяць) is a film that speaks directly to our moment in history, an intimate yet shattering portrait of love under siege. Evocative of Raymond Briggs’s When the Wind Blows (1986), it shares that film’s power in… Read More ›
-
Documentary “Sonaggios” shows us the modern day struggles of an artisanal tradition. [SFFILM]
Sonaggios is an incredibly moving and visually captivating documentary that takes viewers into the heart of Tonara, a small village in the mountainous region of Sardinia, Italy. For nearly 150 years, Tonara has been home to a unique artisanal tradition… Read More ›
-
“The Trouble with Jessica” is a dark comedy of errors.
The Trouble with Jessica is a minimalist comedy of errors that thrives on its sharp dialogue, taut tension, and an outstanding ensemble cast. With an intriguing premise and a blend of dark humor and suspense, the film keeps you on… Read More ›
-
“Insomnia” keeps you from restful sleep on this DVD re-release with a trove of extended features.
Christopher Nolan’s Insomnia is one of those rare thriller movies that defies convention by substituting the disquiet of night with the unrelenting brightness of an Alaskan summer — a choice that paradoxically amplifies the film’s sense of terror. The movie… Read More ›
-
Eight San Francisco International Film Festival 2025 films I hope to check out.
For the second time, Elements of Madness will officially be covering San Francisco International Film Festival 2025 and it’ll be the first time I’m doing as part of the EoM Team. Ahead of the festival start, here’s a few films… Read More ›
-
“A Complete Unknown” comes to home viewing like a rolling stone.
When we think of Bob Dylan, we often reflect on his profound impact on music, culture, and politics. Over the decades, he’s transcended the role of a mere musician, becoming a cultural icon whose voice and influence have defined multiple… Read More ›