The first time I watched LOVE & MERCY, I only knew that Brian Wilson was a founding member of The Beach Boys. Over a decade later I know more about Wilson and his struggles so this film worked a lot better for me in many ways. It's the perfect type of biopic. It doesn't attempt to tell the subject matters entire life over 2 hours. It focuses on two defining moments in Wilson's life and allows director Bill Pohland to be creative, while paying attention to detail, in what can be seen as a love letter to one of the greatest minds in music.

RIP Brian Wilson

THE SHAPE OF WATER, directed by mythical-maker extraordinaire Guillermo del Toro, is a fable about being an outsider, connection, and borderless love. It’s a fantasy horror that is filled with heart, great creature design, and some wonderful performances from Sally Hawkins, Richard Jenkins, Octavia Spencer, and Michael Shannon (oh how I detest his character!).

Despite thoroughly loving this during TIFF 2017, this was my first time seeing it since. The Criterion 4K is part of my collection so I’m unlikely to allow so much time go by again before a re-watch.