This short essay is part of a series called ‘Writing on Writing.’ This series takes a few different forms, and in this post, I’m featuring some of the art that fuels my creativity. Want to see content like this more often? Consider supporting me on Patreon.
Here it is once again! There were so many amazing movies!
A Man Escaped 1956
Apparently I love really slow French movies! I feel like that’s not something I would have said a year ago, but this film makes that one of the truest things I’ve said about myself. It’s an in-depth view of a man escaping a Nazi prison in occupied France, and it is exceedingly slow. But somehow I didn’t find it boring! Proceed with caution though, I think my perspective has gotten warped.
As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner
I honestly can’t believe how long it’s taken me to read this book. I also now understand why people want to lump me in with Faulkner. I like to think we’re engaging with language and land in similar ways, though I don’t think I’ll ever come close to his mastery of dialect. If you haven’t picked this up, go read it.
The Five Devils 2022
This film is absolutely incredible. Lesbians, witches, racism, what more could you want? Seriously though, the way this film explored relationships blew me away. Highly recommend you try to find it once it hits streaming.
Ice Merchants 2022
This was my pick to win the Oscar for animated shorts this year, and I’m honestly devastated it didn’t win. This no-dialogue short is one of the most touching films I’ve ever seen. I was bawling. It’s amazing.
My Year of Dicks 2022
The title makes it sound silly, but it’s really such a wonderful story about adolescent love. This was my second favorite of this year’s animated shorts, and you should all go watch it (on Hulu, I think!).
Rosetta 1999
Is it sad? Yes. But, the emotional resonance of this film is unparalleled. It sounds silly, but it’s a movie about being human and trying to live a ‘normal life’, which is something I think we can all relate to.
Saving Mr. Banks 2013
This was a rewatch for me, and I’m just as in love with it as I was before. I’m a huge fan of Mary Poppins, and I think this film is a really a love letter to that story. Nothing is better than ‘seeing’ them write that music.
TÁR 2022
Are y’all tired of me talking about this movie yet? I rewatched it, and I’m still in love with it! Blanchett, Cate, you’re a genius!
To the Wonder 2012
This film is super weird. There isn’t really a plot, and it’s kind of hard to figure out what’s going on at any given moment. What astounds me about this film is that it made me think Oklahoma can be beautiful. Small town Oklahoma, the exact kind of Oklahoma I hate driving through. This movie made it all stunning.
Definitely an eclectic list this month, but one I’m exceedingly pleased with.
Love and gratitude, friends.
Kameron Ray Morton 