September marks a transformative period in cinema, shifting from the vibrant excitement of summer blockbusters to a more introspective selection of films, many aiming for awards recognition. This month’s releases showcase a diverse array of stories, including a documentary on controversial filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, a highly anticipated adaptation of a Stephen King novel, a sequel to the cult classic “This Is Spinal Tap,” and a politically charged narrative from Paul Thomas Anderson.
A Look at Riefenstahl’s Complicated Legacy
The new documentary titled “Riefenstahl,” directed by Andres Veiel, delves into the life of the infamous German filmmaker known for her works during the Nazi regime, particularly “Triumph of the Will.” Combining archival footage with modern reflections, the film examines whether Riefenstahl was complicit in the atrocities committed during her time. As Daniel Jonah Wolpert noted in NPR, the documentary raises challenging questions but ultimately finds that “any criminal evidence against Leni Riefenstahl remains tantalizingly circumstantial.” This thought-provoking film is currently showing in select theaters.
Adapting King’s Dystopian Vision
Another significant release is “The Long Walk,” based on Stephen King‘s first written novel, originally penned in the late 1960s. Directed by Francis Lawrence, known for “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” this adaptation arrives in theaters on September 12, 2023, after years of development challenges. Set in a dystopian America, the film follows young men in a deadly walking contest where stopping means death. Critics such as Alison Willmore from Vulture describe the story as a “sad spectacle,” reflecting on societal expectations and the sacrifices made in the name of fading American exceptionalism.
The Return of Spinal Tap
The world of rock mockumentaries gets a revival with “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,” directed by Rob Reiner. More than four decades after the original film’s release, Reiner reunites with stars Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer to explore the fictional band’s new adventures. The sequel, which opens in theaters on September 12, 2023, promises to blend nostalgia with contemporary music documentary styles. IndieWire notes that Reiner seeks to capture the essence of modern celebrity culture while maintaining the humor that defined the original film.
Documenting Deviant Behavior
“Predators,” a new documentary from David Osit, examines the public’s fascination with deviant criminal behavior through the lens of Chris Hansen‘s infamous reality series “To Catch a Predator.” Debuting in theaters on September 19, 2023, the film critiques the show’s sensationalist approach to justice, questioning the morality of how society consumes stories of crime and punishment. As noted by Guy Lodge from Variety, Hansen’s confrontations with potential sex offenders reflect a societal demand for visible and ruthless justice, despite the ethical implications.
Pynchon’s Challenging Narrative
Lastly, Paul Thomas Anderson takes on the daunting task of adapting Thomas Pynchon‘s work in “One Battle After Another,” loosely based on the author’s novel “Vineland.” With a release date of September 26, 2023, the film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a former radical revolutionary navigating a politically charged landscape. Anderson, known for his complex narratives, aims to balance themes of white supremacy and immigration with a deeply personal father-daughter story. In a recent interview, DiCaprio emphasized that the film’s heart lies in its emotional core rather than its political backdrop.
As September unfolds, these films offer a rich tapestry of narratives and perspectives, encouraging audiences to reflect on both historical and contemporary issues through the lens of cinema. From the unsettling legacy of Riefenstahl to the absurdity of rock stardom, this month promises a compelling selection for film enthusiasts.
