I’m not saying this to be contrary but I disagree because I think films should have an aspect ratio and all of this Imax shit is often not director-friendly. All shots should have a preferred ratio. You have a frame or you aren’t directing.

Or, the way SPANGLISH interacts with Paz Vega is way more interesting than the way ZOO or ALOHA interacts with their female leads.

In their later works I think Brooks thought he was showing reality, I think Crowe often is using formula. I like late period Brooks because I think the messy parts showcase his limitations in a way that is interesting in a way I don’t get from Crowe.

I think Brooks’ Brentwood films are interesting in a way I don’t get from Crowe. SPANGLISH and HOW DO YOU KNOW? are complete works in ways I don’t think Crowe has gotten to. ALOHA wants to be a better movie in a way those films don’t.

I assume that he was offered everything at that point in his career since he was almost in STAR TREK IV. I doubt it was serious. But also, the cartoons don’t exist in that film as a metaphor for minorities, and the film wouldn’t work if they were, so I don’t think he’s a ctrl V option.