Restraint in Craft

Michael appreciates artistic work that achieves impact through subtlety and understatement rather than excess. He values filmmaking, performance, and creative choices that hold back intentionally.

10 items · Updated August 27, 2026

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Mother Mary

“It’s just talking,” yeah, but were you listening?

Jul 29, 2026 · Watched

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I Love Boosters

Exactly the type of film I’m looking for craft-wise. Somehow maximalist while also holding back on what is promised by the introduction of the teleporters, at least in my mind! I feel greedy asking for more when this does so much, but I might need a sequel.

Jun 27, 2026 · Watched

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Voicemails for Isabelle

Yes.

Jun 23, 2026 · Watched

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Obsession

☹️

Jun 24, 2026 · Watched

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Rebecca

Wasn’t sure I liked where this was heading, but then it redeems itself in the final five minutes or so. I went into this not knowing Hitchcock won Best Picture, let alone so early in his career.

Aug 23, 2026 · Watched

PlayTime

I want to make a movie like this but set in one of our anti-human-designed American cities

Jul 4, 2026 · Watched