A collection of film tips by Cate Blanchett for UNHCR.
Cate Blanchett is not only a talented actress, but also a philanthropist and spokesperson for many causes, including an ambassador for UNHCR. As such, she has recently spoken about films that can be inspiring during the current lockdown. I like the idea and the list so much that I've chosen my three favourites from it and put together some info on them.
Here's Cate's video:
Capernaum (2018) by Nadine Labaki
A gut-wrenching story of a Lebanese boy, whose life is so traumatic that he sues his parents for giving birth to him. The film follows his through the adventures of his life, including many touching and beautiful moments, but also some harsh realities. Tough and inspiring.
Babel (2006) by Alejandro G. Iñárritu
Directed by Oscar-winning Mexican Iñárritu, this is a complex story of several humans in different parts of the world, whose fates are somehow linked. Filmed with some Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett herself as well as completely unknown actors from various countries, this film connects people in their humanity. Unsettling and suspenseful.
Manbiki Kazoku (2018) by Hirokazu Koreda
(also known as Shoplifters)
The winner of Cannes in 2018 and of many hearts in audiences worldwide, this Japanese film follows an unusual family. Living in poverty, they need to be creative and cross some boundaries to survive. One cannot help but care about these crooks, who - as can often be observed with people who have little themselves - are still generous when helping others. A beautiful film, redefining what it means to have a family.
(also featured in my blog post on Foreign Languages)
If you want to read more about Cate Blanchett and her work, here's the link to the article by UNHCR:
Some other films that are similar in category are also features in my blog post on Uplifting Films, which actually was my very first blog post, for very similar reasons as Cate Blanchett's list: pass the time with something beautiful and inspiring.