"Detachment"

When I read the description of this movie I thought, "Oh, another film about a well-meaning, innocent teacher goes into a tough, ghetto school and turns the kids around." well, this is far from it. The teacher, played by Adrien Brody, is a disillusioned sub who gets a long term job in a rough school. He get's involved with the students and does earn their respect. He also gives shelter to a young prostitute. Meanwhile, he's looking after his grandfather who's in a nursing home. The film deals with the angst the teachers have in failing the students. Brody gives an an absolutely amazing performance.In fact, all the actors are excellent. This is definitely not a feel good movie. But it's quite powerful.

5 stars out of 5.

"The Perks of Being a Wallflower"

This is not your typical coming-of-age film. It's about Charlie who's starting his freshman year in high school. He dreads it because he recently has had to deal with depression, which is due to the suicide of his best friend. He's terribly shy and introverted. But he soon befriends several oddball seniors who take him in and make him feel accepted. The movie has its comedic moments, but there are also some darker parts to it as well. The acting by Logan Lerman and Emma Watson is outstanding and very believable. This is a movie warranting more than one viewing.
5 stars out of 5

"Four Last Songs"

It's listed as a comedy but this movie is quite a bit more than that. The plot revolves around an American pianist (Stanley Tucci) who is trying to put on a performance of classical music by a recently deceased composer. Along the way he encounters numerous obstacles including the composer's widow, his mistress and other characters. His circle of friends includes a bunch of misfits and oddballs including the always whacky Rhys Ifans and Hugh Bonneville. The movie isn't just a light comedy--there are some emotional and heavy-duty moments in it. This is one of those rare films worth watching several times. Highly recommended.
4.5 stars out of 5

"The Giant Mechanical Man"

Janice, a thirty-something is adrift after losing her job at a temp agency. She ends up falling for a street performer, even though her sister and brother-in-law are pushing her to marry a writer with an ego the size of a house. Jenna Fischer and Chris Messina are absolutely charming in this little film. The writing and acting are first rate. And the best part for me was that it was shot in my hometown--Detroit. Would have loved to be an extra in this fine romantic comedy.

3.5 stars out of 5

"Punching the Clown"

If you're in the mood for some light entertainment, this is the prefect choice. The movie stars Henry Phillips, a folk singer who moves to L.A. to make it big. His career starts to take off until a vicious rumor begins to circulate. What makes this movie so special is the songs Henry Sings. They're truly twisted and laugh-out-loud funny. This is a movie I could watch over and over.
4 1/2 stars out of 5