There was no doubt that this movie watching madness would include 12 Monkeys. One of my favorite movies by one of my all-time favorite directors, Terry Gilliam.
12 Monkeys (1995)
Prisoners James Cole (Bruce Willis), Jose (Jon Seda), and Scarface (Michael Chance) are jumping back in time from a dystopian future. A manufactured virus has left most of the Earth's population dead. What's left of the human race lives underground because the planet is uninhabitable. The cold metal prison is stark and brutal, so of course James is desperate for an opportunity to leave.
The movie has that distinct Terry Gilliam feel. This time it's a rusty, deteriorating retro-futurism. This CRT monitor sphere has Brazil meets big brother vibes. They seem even more relevant today then when this movie was released.
On James' first trip back in time, the Earth is already devastated. The time travelling technology is a bit… inaccurate. This leads to our prisoners encountering each other in the past, present, and future. Wibbly wobbly, timey wimey.
James meets Jeffrey Goines brilliantly played by Brad Pitt. One of my favorite roles he's brought to life.
Madeleine Stowe plays love interest, scientist, and therapist Kathryn Railly. Her encounters with James causes her to question his, and her own, sanity.
Did I mention how much I love Brad Pitt in this role‽
It passes the Bechdel test, but the cast is not diverse. No spoilers, but I also mentioned the wibbly wobbly, timey wimey aspects. If you haven't seen it, go watch it immediately!
Join in the fun
Let me know what I should add to my ever growing list either on social media or email me here. For now I'm sticking with movies -- theatrical releases, straight to DVD, or TV movies. #quarantinecinema
Watch it today
Full disclosure, I'm trying something new over here to see make some extra cash. This is an Amazon affiliate link.