2008

Direction:
Ari Folman

Storyline:
Israeli filmmaker Ari Folman writes, directs and stars in this autobiographical animated film. As a 19-year-old infantry soldier in the 1982 Lebanon War, Folman witnessed the Sabra and Shatila massacre, but finds that he no longer remembers the event.

Opinion:
A completely original and lively history lesson with groundbreaking animation that delivers its message about the Middle East in a captivating way, and also knows when it’s time to face reality.

Direction:
Charlie Kaufman

Storyline:
A theater director struggles with his work and the women in his life as he sets up a life-size replica of New York City in a warehouse for his new play.

Opinion:
This film is deliberately not easily deciphered and thus comes across as serious, disturbing and significant. It is as funny as it is depressing. It is as brilliant as it is confusing. There are no easy answers to be found, and that’s what makes this film so fascinating.