25/31

It took 7 years to finance

The Maynards and their children live a near-perfect billionaire family life. Ammon is an avid hunter, but he doesn't shoot animals because the family's wealth allows them to live completely free from consequences.

I saw it at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival

Ayn Rand: The Question Is Who's Gonna Stop Me? Directors Daniel Hossle and Julianne Niemann have a decidedly interesting satirical take on the wealthy class, and while there are some good ideas, it feels underdeveloped and not as strong as the film claims.

Many of the performances are solid, some of the children's performances are a little weak

Throughout the film, the production design, camerawork, and color presentation are beautiful and truly beautiful, helping to capture the atmosphere and essence of the characters. Hossle and Niemann's direction, while a little confusing, gives a clear sense of the style and atmosphere they are aiming for.

Also, there are some good ideas that don't quite reach their potential

The narrative is a good concept, but unfortunately it feels as strong as it seems, as the narrative feels underdeveloped with some themes and the characters don't seem as engaging or interesting to connect with emotionally. There are some moments that are shocking, edgy and quite strange, and I understand where the filmmakers are coming from and their vision.

But it could have been stronger

But it doesn't feel fully earned and the style feels too similar to that of Ruben Ostlund or Michael Haneke. Overall it's not bad, as there are some moments that I appreciate.