Opinion

Why I prefer to inform myself about films rather than watch them

Carolin Teufelberger
7.5.2020
Translation: machine translated

At the moment I'm spending a lot of time on Netflix and co. without having watched anything at the end. Because searching for what I want to watch is often more fun than watching the film itself. An ode to film research.

"Hey Carolin, we've just added a film that you might like."

The push notification on my mobile comes from Netflix. It's Sunday, 7.25 pm. I'm sceptical but curious and open the email. "Coffee & Kareem" is suggested to me. The brief summary and the first visual impression make me feel like I've been taken for a ride. This, Netflix, is what you want me to like?

You're out, "Coffee & Kareem". You won't get a third chance.

Maybe a new streaming service?

But I come across all sorts of other films on Rotten Tomatoes that sound good. I switch to Wikipedia for a simple plot overview, read online articles for more in-depth, albeit personal, assessments from the respective authors and then hop back to Netflix to see if the film is available there. If yes, it goes on my list. If not, I try to find out which streaming library it's available in.

So I end up on IndieFlix, a streaming platform for independent films, and think about starting a 7-day trial. Or I'll take out a plan right away. I like the vibe of the platform. In the end, I decide to sleep on it for a night. But before that, I continue my search for a film worth watching on streaming services that I already pay for.

"Climax" was recommended to me by a work colleague. I'm familiar with Gaspar Noé, the director: I've already seen his "Enter the Void". Noé's films are challenging and captivating, not easy fare.

In 1991, the prize went to Joel Coen for "Barton Fink". I really like the Coen brothers, what are they up to? That's right, Joel Coen is married to Frances McDormand. The actress took part in "Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri". I thought that was good. Maybe there's something on Netflix with McDormand that I haven't seen yet.

Negative. Unfortunately, I can't find any films with her on Netflix, but "Tallulah" is suggested. For whatever reason. The plot sounds good, I like actress Ellen Page. The film ends up on my list. Will it be enough to watch it now? A glance at the clock. It's late. 11.14 pm. I'm definitely not going to watch another film now.

Next time.

Film lists as an expression of beautiful evenings

P.S.: A week later, I did watch "Climax" on Netflix. You should do it too.

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My life in a nutshell? On a quest to broaden my horizon. I love discovering and learning new skills and I see a chance to experience something new in everything – be it travelling, reading, cooking, movies or DIY.


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