5AM StoryTalk Double Feature: Lost in Spaces
These two films exist at the intersection of art, fame, and spiritual transformation
On the second Friday of every month for several months now, 5AM StoryTalk has curated a double feature for you to watch. The goal, as always, is to get us to look at and consider art and culture in new ways.
The philosophy of this double-feature series is primarily juxtaposition. Films are selected based on how they complement each other and reveal deeper truths about the other, but just as often about filmmaking, culture, and the world we live in. Very little is offered in the way of explanation, as the process of discovery should be yours. We can discuss the films in the comments section, whether you’ve watched them or not, similar to how I operate this newsletter’s weekly questions.
You’ll find this month’s double feature below…
(Please note this will be the final edition of this feature for a while as 5AM StoryTalk is reorganizing its publishing schedule in the new year. Subscribers will receive an update about this soon, but I’m very excited about the changes to come.)
DOUBLE FEATURE: I THINK WE’RE (EXISTENTIALLY) ALONE NOW
Two films set in cities that become characters themselves. Both driven by central characters whose identities and potential for happiness are in free fall. Both about, in part, celebrity culture and the spiritual bankruptcy of it. Both concluded with mysterious, unheard messages that could be the key to explaining everything.
Feature #1: LA DOLCE VITA (1960)
Written by Federico Fellini, Ennio Flaiano, Tullio Pinelli, and Brunello Rondi with story by Fellini, Flaiano, and Pinelli; directed by Federico Fellini
“I need a change of scene. I need a change of a lot of things.”
Feature #2: LOST IN TRANSLATION (2003)
Written and directed by Sofia Coppola
“I just don't know what I'm supposed to be.
“You'll figure that out. The more you know who you are, and what you want, the less you let things upset you.”
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If you enjoyed this double feature, these others might interest you, too:
Two beautiful films. I remember watching Lost in Translation after a night shift one December, about 13 years ago. It was probably around 5am funnily enough! I loved everything about it, but that ending is just iconic. And the fade into The Jesus and Mary Chain's Just Like Honey…just perfect!