Wonka: A Tale of Talent and Triumph

A Cinematic Journey into Sweet Ambitions

 

    Wonka, a heartwarming cinematic gem released just before Christmas, reimagines Roald Dahl's classic with a delightful twist. The film, led by the talented Timothée Chalamet, beautifully captures the transformative power of friendship and ambition—infused with a layer of chocolate magic!

    As the story unfolds, a charming young entrepreneur with a gift for crafting delightful confectioneries ventures into Europe to establish his shop at the prestigious Galeries Gourmet. He faces obstacles as a ruthless chocolate cartel seeks to suppress him. The plot thickens as Wonka becomes ensnared in a deceptive tenancy agreement orchestrated by the infamous Mrs. Scrubitt, portrayed by Olivia Coleman.

     His love for sweets and generous personality are not enough to navigate the hurdles but he is fortunate to meet a group of like-minded individuals ready to help him. United, they establish a bold underground network with a singular objective: conquering Europe with the irresistible allure of chocolate!

    The movie's delightful visual scenery blends elements of reimagined London, Paris, Lisbon, and Brussels into an enchanting wintery landscape. Imagination flourishes as whimsical props, including Wonka's portable chocolate-making machine, steal the spotlight.

    Beyond its entertainment value, the movie encourages reflection on the importance of literacy. Through Wonka's unability to read, the film highlights global education challenges.

    In conclusion, Wonka is more than just a movie; it's a heartfelt journey that captures the essence of friendship, resilience, and the magic of creativity. With its imaginative visuals and a cast that breathes life into each character, the film stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

 

 Agnes Prygiel, 07/01/2023

 

Snow's Machiavellian Ascent to Power

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes

     "The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes" is "The Hunger Games" prequel about Coriolanus Snow's rise to power and presidency over the republic of Panem. We see him as a young idealist, unspoiled, ambitious, and driven by the aspiration to provide for his impoverished family. In order to survive in politics and to have any importance, he needs to play by the cruel rules he initially disagrees with.

    The movie offers an interesting insight into the future dictator's character, portraying him as an exceptionally intelligent individual who strategically and calculatedly navigates his circumstances to avoid becoming a victim. Beautifully portrayed by Tom Blyth, Coriolanus Snow progresses from a pawn to a king at a personal cost, leaving emotions and sentiments behind. When we meet him years later, we never expect that at some point in his life, he was just like anybody else—hopeful, a bit naive, and in love.

 

Agnes Prygiel, 13/12.2023

 

Wish On Yourself!

Embarking on a Magical Journey with Disney's Newest Animation

   

    Experience the enchantment of 'Wish,' a captivating animated Disney animation that has just hit the big screen!

    In the city of Rosas, the wizard king, Magnifico, invites all community members to share their biggest life dreams during special public ceremonies. People's aspirations are captured in magical bubbles, drifting freely around the palace, shielded from the outside world. Magnifico then decides which wishes to fulfill and when. 

    Although the citizens live with the impression that their dreams will come true someday, that may not necessarily happen for everyone. In the king's view, he is protecting his folk, as not all wishes are sensible or possible to fulfill. 

    A young girl named Asha believes things should be different. With the assistance of an adorable talking goat named Valentino (voice by the formidable Alan Tudyk), her friends, and some magic from the stars, she embarks on an ambitious plan to change the rules in the kingdom.

    This delightful family movie imparts an important truth: take responsibility for your hopes and ambitions. Those who promise to fulfill them for you often have a hidden agenda and their own game plan. Dreams are a part of you. Do not wait for a government, a social media guru, or a fairy godmother to keep a promise they never intended to fulfill. Use your own initiative, follow your heart, and be in charge of your own aspirations.

06.12.2023

Agnes Prygiel

The Creator - Film Review

Chronicles of Tomorrow: The Prodigy Child's Tale

The Creator - Illustration by Agnes Prygiel

    I hold a profound affection for cinema, where films stir my deep emotions and thoughts. Gareth Edwards's recent masterpiece, 'The Creator,' struck a chord with me due to its visionary storytelling and its connection to my cherished 1986 movie, 'The Golden Child.'

    Set half a century in the future, 'The Creator' unfolds in a world where advanced AI entities closely resemble and emulate human behavior, establishing connections and alliances in diverse societal roles. Blamed for triggering a catastrophic global incident, they face extermination, sparking a rebellion against humanity.

    The narrative explores the subtle boundary between robots and humans, accentuating their diminishing numbers during the war. Tables turn when the advanced humanoid child is constructed, giving hope for AI reproduction and survival. Unaware of its full potential, the state-of-the-art artificial offspring forms a profound emotional bond with Joshua Taylor (portrayed by Josh David Washington), a former soldier who becomes its guardian.

    'The Creator' depicts the evolution of AI, showcasing advanced AI machines and their integration into society. Drawing parallels with algorithms like ChatGPT in our daily lives, it raises questions about the responsible use of AI and its potential impact on humanity.

    While the movie serves as a fictional exploration, it's essential to note that ethical considerations, regulations, and responsible development practices play crucial roles in shaping the future of AI. Keep in mind that humans design and program AI software, giving us the influence to choose its direction.

 

Agnes Prygiel, 06/10/2023

The Old Oak - Film Review

United by a Meal: Ken Loach's Plea for Diversity

 

The Old Oak - Illustration Agnes Prygiel, 2023

 

    Ken Loach's latest film, "The Old Oak," portrays the arrival of Syrian refugees in a small Northern town. TJ, the local pub owner, and Yara, a Syrian photographer, establish a kitchen offering free meals to anyone in need. This initiative serves as a bridge, fostering connections among individuals from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the movie's motto: "Those who eat together stay together."

    The film touched me on a personal level as in some ways it is not only about the Syrian refugees in particular but also about me - a Polish migrant (now a British citizen) and people from diverse backgrounds living together in the UK without knowing or understanding each other's journey. I would say that those who do anything together usually stay together. Ken Loach pinpoints a bigger, underlying issue - the shortage of social enterprises allowing people from mixed cultural origins to meet and bond. 

    Every individual arriving in the UK carries a part of their heritage within them. Immigration is motivated by varied reasons: economic, political, or personal. It is easy to generalise, pigeonhole, be hostile or just patronising. But at some point you have to form connections and make friends with those around you. Where will you start? How do you explain your culture to someone else? Ken Loach's exploration of these themes is particularly important in today's political climate.

04.10.2023, Agnes Prygiel