My Rating: 3.98/4 (aka Pure Art)

One line summary: The life of Cuban poet Reinaldo Arenas as told by the masterful Julian Schnabel.

The Deets: Fair warning, this film is one of my top 5 favorites of all time. I use this as a litmus test to see if other humans have a similar taste in movies; often they don’t. To me, this is a true work of art (and directed by a painter/artist). Schnabel has taken the memoir of Arenas and transferred it onto the screen with poetic texture, with a beautifully integrated (and memorable) soundtrack, and with a young Javier Bardem inhabiting the lead role with incredible depth. I haven’t seen it for many years, but I can still recall the energy and sadness of the film, the awe I felt after seeing it for the first time, and the beauty that Schnabel brings to the screen — he literally and boldly weaves Arenas’ poetry into the storytelling; he also cast his son as the young Reinaldo and Johnny Depp in an unexpected cameo. This is a movie to be experienced.

Perfect for: Anyone who knows of Reinaldo Arenas, vibes with Schnabel’s film work, and if you’re into Bardem or Cuban history.

Where to watch: You need to rent or buy; do it, and let yourself be immersed.

Food pairing: A giant plate of fried plantains (just feels right). And maybe some hard-boiled eggs (you’ll see why).