Welcome to our **exciting year-long exploration** here at The Nerdy, where we journey back to **1985**, a landmark year in cinema that gave us an array of beloved films and cult classics. This year marked the beginning of a **major cultural shift**, with themes and narratives that still resonate today.
As we dive into this cinematic treasure trove, our list currently boasts nearly **four dozen movies**. Yes, we might be a bit obsessed, but **1985 was truly a remarkable year for film.**
Our articles will be released on or around the same dates the films debuted in **1985**, honoring their **40th anniversaries**. Every review is crafted with fresh eyes—each film watched anew, ensuring that nostalgia doesn’t obscure our perceptions.
Today, we spotlight **two cinematic gems:** Brazil and Fletch.
Brazil: A Dystopian Satire
Director **Terry Gilliam** is often described as either a **madman** or a **genius**—perhaps he’s a bit of both. In **Brazil**, we follow the life of **Sam Lowry (Jonathan Pryce)**, a cog in the **oppressive machinery** of a bureaucratic government. Picture a world where every little aspect of life requires endless paperwork, creating an atmosphere of profound absurdity.
Amid this chaos, Sam finds himself in a labyrinth of **vivid dreams**, captivated by a woman he’s never met. The film resonates differently at various life stages; as a teenager, I struggled to grasp its nuances, but now, at fifty, I recognize Gilliam’s sharp critiques of **technology**, **surveillance**, and **capitalism**. His ability to **skewer modern society** is both brilliant and unsettling.
The imagery and narrative intricacies are nothing short of **astounding**, making it a **timeless classic** that deserves your attention. With its striking visuals and profound themes, it’s a film that echoes long after the credits roll. If you haven’t seen it, set aside some time for this incredible piece of cinema.
Fletch: A Comic Adventure
Transitioning to a lighter tone, **Fletch** delivers undeniable entertainment, though its **steadfast popularity** remains somewhat of a mystery to me. Chevy Chase stars as **Irwin M. “Fletch” Fletcher**, a reporter for the **Los Angeles Times**, who disguises himself under the alias **Jane Doe** while delving into the murky waters of drug trade on the beach.
When Fletch encounters **Alan Stanwyk (Tim Matheson)**, who enlists him for a bizarre plot involving his own demise, we’re thrown into a whirlwind of intrigue and comedy. Though the film has memorable high points, Chase’s numerous **disguises** can become a distraction, veering us away from the narrative’s primary focus.
While I acknowledge the film’s humor and charm, I urge viewers to approach it with **moderate expectations**—don’t buy into the **hype** without a healthy dose of skepticism. Enjoy the laughs, but remember, it may not be the masterpiece some declare it to be.
Stay tuned for our next installment of **1985 Movie Reviews** on June 7, 2025, featuring **The Dark Power**, **The Goonies**, and **Perfect**. Don’t miss out!
