This week at the Northwest Film Center

 “Rubber” (2010)

directed by Quentin Dupieux.

Feb. 18

This film takes the prize for most creative plot. Really, this is quite outlandish. “Rubber” takes place in a beautiful desert town and focuses on its inhabitant Robert. Not only is Robert a living, sentient tire, but he is telepathic as well! Can this get any better? Yes: He is also a stalker. Those who encounter him are not as alarmed as I would be, and perhaps this is what makes the film all too awesome. The seriousness of the cinematography really makes this one a treat; it’s quite beautifully made. So fresh! This movie gets five out of five stars if you include hilarity points for the shower scene.

4 out of 5 stars

“Come Undone” (2010)

directed by Silvio Soldini.

Feb. 16

“Come Undone” is the story of two lovers in an affair that tears apart their “normal” lives. Betrayal, anguish, etc.—you know how the film is going to pan out. Infidelity is an important issue with many subtopics, but this story merely looks at the big picture. Although the acting is wonderful and the cinematography is beautiful, the film does not dive deeply into an issue that all too often becomes a cheap utility for drama. Maybe the director could take a plot-brainstorming tip from Quentin Dupieux.

3.5 out of 5 stars

“Illegal” (2010)

directed by Olivier Masset-Depasse.

Feb. 17

A truly heartfelt film, “Illegal” tells the story of a mother and son who live in daily terror. Tania and 13-year-old Ivan are from Russia but live in Belgium illegally. The film depicts a lifestyle that is all too familiar for many people living today. A colorless palette further encompasses the psychological suffering of the characters. The film is captivating, taking complete advantage of handheld cinematography and eye-level angling. Viewers are given a perspective that is often overlooked. This is just a wonderful film. It is thoughtful,

emotional and provocative.

5 out of 5 stars

“La Pivellina” (2010)

and Rainer Frimmel

Feb. 16

This film is a must-see. Covi and Frimmel’s simplicity gives “La Pivellina” true allure, and the power to succeed in its verisimilitude of reality. The plot itself is relatively simple: A couple finds a young child and searches for her mother. These themes of altruism and nurturing coax the film along, inviting the projection of many additional subliminal messages. Among these is the audience’s ability to assess the modest trailer-park lifestyle, general themes about humility and questions about the definition of family. Contrasting the gloomy setting of the trailer park with the characters’ vibrant spirits and appearances, “La Pivellina” paints a theme without dialogue.

5 out of 5 stars

“How I Ended This Summer” (2010)

directed by Aleksei Popogrebsky

Feb. 18

The Northwest Film Center has really raised the bar this month. In the heart of the Arctic Ocean, two meteorologists find themselves alone together. Beyond the breathtaking landscape, their slow but chilling psychological states unwind, particularly after one crucial decision. “How I Ended This Summer” projects something of a “Castaway”-type mood, except without ever having made it to Hollywood. Certainly it is not full of action, but Popgrebsky’s film implores the audience to revel in magnificent and sublime scenery and takes viewers into the minds of two men on the brink of everything.

5 out of 5 stars