"The Bookshop"

 Just a delightful, offbeat movie as only the English can do it. It stars Emily Mortimer, Bill Nighy, and Patricia Clarkson. A young widow buys an old house in a small East Anglian town and is determined to open a bookshop there. She's met with some resistance from the townsfolk who want to turn it into an arts center. It's an amusing look at small town life in the late 1950s in Britain and features a charming cast of eccentric characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it--how can you not like a movie that features Bill Nighy?

4 out of 5 stars

"This Beautiful Fantastic"

In spite its title, which looks like a typo, this is a truly delightful movie. It's one of those rare films where nothing really bad happens. The story is about a young librarian, played by Jessica Brown Findlay, who's working on a children's book She gets in trouble when she neglects her backyard, letting it turn into a total jungle. Her next-door neighbor, Tom Wilkinson, befriends her and agrees to help her clean it up before she's evicted. In the meantime, she falls heads over heels in love with an eccentric young inventor. All in all, a thoroughly charming story that will have you smiling for days. 

4.5 out of 5 stars

"The Other Guys"

Not your typical buddy/cop movie by any means. Which is what you'd expect with Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg. Ferrell is a nerdy pencil pusher who's happy doing his desk job. He's teamed up with Wahlberg, who is just itching to get back on the street and solve a crime. It appears to be your average and predictable cop film, but it's anything but. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, it zigs and zags. I found myself laughing out loud several times, which is quite rare for me. If you're in the mood for something wacky, you'll enjoy this. 

3.5 out of 5 stars

"Everything Beautiful is Far Away"

 A boy, a girl, and a robot head enter the desert. Sounds like the opening line of a joke. It's actually the plot to an off-beat, slow-moving indie film that I recently saw. It takes place in the near future, and the plot is pretty much the way I described it. The unusual trio is in search for a mythical lake, while trying to survive their harsh environment. I don't recall ever seeing a movie quite like it. It hooked me right of way and I couldn't stop watching it. It's a quiet, pretty movie that I think I need to watch again. I found it quite by chance by doing a search on Hoopla for sci-fi movies. 

3.5 out of 5 stars

"In Your Eyes"

You've been warned: You're either going to love it or hate this movie. Iy's the story about two people wo can communicate telepathically. Growing up, they have occasional encounters, but don't really understand what's happening. As adults, they learn to talk to each other and form a close bond. It's a bit sappy, but I enjoy an occasional romantic film. The chemistry between Michael Stahl-David and Zoe Kazan is terrific and helps move the story along. What a pleasant surprise! It's currently streaming on Kanopy.

4 out of 5 stars

"Shot Caller"

 Lousy title. Great movie. How a prison movie ended up in my queue, I have no idea. But I'm glad I took a chance with this one. A successful stockbroker and family man ends up in prison after he accidentally kills a friend while drunk driving. In order to survive, he becomes a total badass. The transformation from a decent, caring guy into a hardened criminal is absolutely astonishing. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau is brilliant in this award-worthy performance. I figured I'd give this about ten minutes but couldn't stop watching.  An undiscovered gem. 

"The Old Guard"

 I started watching this movie, thinking it was a superhero movie, which I'm not a fan of. As it turns out, it marginally falls into that category. While it's about a group of five immortals, they really don't have any superpowers, other than the fact that they can't be killed, and they're great fighters. There are two storylines in the film. One is about the introduction of a newly found immortal, a young black female Marine. The other is about an evil head of a pharmaceutical company, who wants to capture and experiment on them to discover the secret to their longevity. The head of the gang is played by Charlize Theron, who literally and figuratively kicks ass. I really enjoyed the smart writing, great cinematography, and of course, phenomenal fight scenes. 

4 out of 5 stars

"Fisherman's Friends"

 This movie will put a smile on your face and keep you in a good mood for days. In it, a group of London record execs visit Cornwall for their bachelor party. While there, they encounter a group of fishermen who get together to sing shanties, or traditional folk songs in their local pub. They jokingly assign one of the gang to sign the group to a recording contract and leave him behind. This is one of those rare uplifting movies where almost nothing goes wrong. It reminded me a bit of "Brassed Off", another film worth watching. The scenery, acting, writing, and singing are all first rate, And to me, the biggest surprise at the end of the movie was that it's a true story! 

4.5 out of 5 stars

"The Battered Bastards of Baseball"

 I rarely review documentaries, but this one is too good to pass up. It's the story of Bing Russell, who grew up befriending a couple legendary New York Yankees. He went on to be a Hollywood actor and was in popular movies and shows like "Bonanza". But his lifelong love of baseball never died and when the Portland Beavers, a minor league team, left the city, he moved in and formed a new team. The Mavericks were made up of misfits, oddballs, and real characters, and everyone was welcome to tryout for the team. They quickly endeared themselves to the fans in town because of their quirky nature. Even if you're not a baseball aficionado, you'll enjoy this movie. It's the classic tale of the underdog making good, and you'll be rooting for the team the whole way!

4 out of 5 stars

"Beasts of No Nation"

While this film has been in my queue for months, I've been quite good at not watching it. The theme, child soldiers in Africa isn't exactly what you'd call "fun" viewing. I knew I needed to see this  important film and as expected, it was most rewarding. The story follows Agu, a young boy who is left to fend for himself when his mother flees to the big city. He's eventually captured and forced to join a rebel group, composed of other young boys. While there is some graphic violence, the film has a subtle beauty to it. It's narrated by Agu, who lets you in on his deepest thoughts. It makes a powerful statement about the futility of war, and you'll feel for the plight of the countless youngsters who have been forced to fight the battles of others. 

4 out of 5 stars

"Hunt for the Wilderpeople"

This could be loosely classified as a road trip movie. Ricky (Julian Dennison), a young, precocious trouble-making orphan is adopted by an older couple who live in a rural part of New Zealand. After the kindly mom dies unexpectedly, the gruff old "uncle", played by Sam Neill, is in charge. When he makes it clear he doesn't want to raise Ricky, and the authorities plan to take him back, the adventure begins. The two of them end up on the lamb, fighting for survival in the bush. Neil and Dennison have great chemistry together and that's what makes this film work so well. Plus, the scenery makes you want to take your next vacation in New Zealand. The movie has a bit of a Wes Anderson feel to it, although it's not quite as wacky. A fun hour and a half where you're rooting for the two renegades the whole way!

4 out of 5 stars

"East Side Sushi"

She's a Mexican-American single mom, living with her dad and barely making enough to pay the bills. So when she decides to become a sushi chef, the odds are definitely against her. This is one of those sweet, somewhat predictable movies where almost nothing terrible happens. Of course, you're rooting for her all the way. In times like these, it's so refreshing to come across a nice, feel-good movie. It never descends to the Hallmark Hall of Fame level, and the food shots will have you salivating. The only downside to watching this movie is, 30 minutes after watching it, you'll be craving more!

3.5 out of 5 stars

"Wildlife"

 A beautiful and subtle film. A young family moves to Montana in the early 1960s. When the father (Jake Gyllenhael) loses his job, he signs up to fight wildfires and is gone for long stretches of time. His wife (Carey Mulligan) struggles to keep the family going, and in doing so, questions whether she loves her husband. The film is nuanced (slow moving some would say), which seems perfect for the story. The mood, set by the writing and gorgeous cinematography really make you feel like you're in the 60s. Some may find this film boring, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The polar opposite of an action-packed, shoot-em-up movie. This, my friends is what indie filmmaking is all about.

4 out of 5 stars

"Adrift"

 Tami (Shailene Woodley), a young, free spirit out to see the world, falls for Richard (Sam Claflin), an experienced sailor. When the two sail across the Pacific, they encounter one of the fiercest hurricanes in recent history. Their boat is badly damaged and Richard is injured. With minimal supplies and a destroyed mast, the two fight for survival. "Adrift" is based on a true story and although the film is slow-moving at times, I thought it was incredible. The acting, cinematography, and scenery all mesh to make for a rewarding cinematic experience. 

4 out of 5 stars

"All Together Now"

 What a sweet, uplifting movie. The story is about Amber, a generous, talented high school senior who happens to be homeless. She's an outgoing, caring young girl who exudes positivity at work and school. When tragedy strikes, the whole town joins forces to help her out. The movie could have easily gotten cheesy and turned into a Hallmark Special, but it doesn't. The young star Auli'i Cravalho does a remarkable job and helps make this film worth watching. In these troubling times, this movie really hit the spot. 

4 out of 5 stars

"In the Shadow of the Moon"

Not your typical detective/mystery movie, that's for sure. A series of random murders takes place one night in Philadelphia. While the police track down the murderer, one of the officers spots her, and ends up chasing her onto a subway track where she is killed. Exactly nine years later, another series of similar murders take place by a woman who looks exactly like the original murderer. Copycat murders or is it something else? I won't reveal any more of the plot, but let's just say you're in for an unexpected surprise. Very well done movie that'll keep you guessing right until the end. If you're looking for something a bit different, you'll enjoy this one.
3.5 out of 5 stars.

"An Easy Girl"

An easy and delightful movie to watch. It's about a young girl's coming of age in a tourist town in southern France. Young Naima is trying trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. Sofia, her glamorous and sophisticated cousin comes to spend the summer with her and the two of them get into some interesting adventures. Sofia befriends a couple of rich playboys and they take advantage of them. It's the rare movie where nothing bad happens. Usually things roll along and you dread it will take a turn for the worse.  But with this film, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. Great acting and scenery that'll make you want to hop on a plane and head to France! Warning for those who care: there are a couple of tastefully done sex scenes.
4 out of 5 stars

"Project Power"

Check your brain at the door, sit back, and enjoy the two-hour ride. This is just a high-paced, action flick that grabs your attention and doesn't let go until the very end. A drug is being sold in New Orleans that can give you a superpower for exactly five minutes. Who's behind it and why is it being sold? That's what Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt are trying to find out. But which one is the good guy?  And will he succeed? If you're looking for a bit of mindless escapism and don't want to think too much, here's your movie.
3 out of 5 stars

"Calibre"

This is one tense drama. Two lifelong friends go on a hunting weekend in northern Scotland. When a hunting accident occurs, they decide to keep it quiet. As the plot unfolds, it's a series of cover ups and you''re left guessing if they'll get away with it, or will the villagers figure out what happened. I won't give away anything else, you'll just have to check it out and find out for yourself. The excellent acting and beautiful scenery make this well worth watching.
4 out of 5 stars

"Cargo"

I'm not a big fan of zombie movies That said, I think this movie only loosely qualifies as one. It's really about survival. It takes place in the near future, where a horrible pandemic has swept across the earth. A dad, played by Martin Freeman, treks across the Australian Outback in search for someone to  care for his infant daughter. The scenery is so beautiful, it makes you want to vacation in Australia ASAP. It's sort of a "Walkabout" set in modern times.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"Only"

This is a pandemic themed movie which makes it pretty timely, considering the weird times we're living through. Not sure why it's listed as a sci-fi film. It stars Freida Pinto and Leslie Odom Jr. who have been self quarantined because of a disease that has wiped out most of the female population. It starts with them hitting the road and then explains what has happened through a series of flashbacks. The two of them are on screen for a majority of the film, which is slow- moving yet quietly beautiful.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"The Night Clerk"

This is the epitome of an indie film. Slow moving. Excellent writing. And great cinematography. Tye Sheridan plays Bart, a twenty something young man who has Asberger Syndrom. He has a job as a receptionist at a motel. He's intelligent but has a hard time communicating normally. Bart has one of the rooms in the motel rigged with surveillance equipment, ostensibly to help him learn how to converse with people. When he witnesses a murder, he rushes to the room where he is caught. Of course, he becomes the key suspect and he's reluctant to let on what he knows. Helen Hunt plays his supportive mother, who tries to make his life as normal as possible. The acting is great and the movie will keep you guessing right till the end.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"The Long Dumb Road"

I love road movies, especially offbeat ones like this. A young, straight-laced kid, played by Tony Revolori, is on his way to L.A. to art school when his car breaks down. A middle-aged drug and alcohol fueled hippie/mechanic (Jason Mantzoukas) comes to the rescue, and joins him on his journey. The two of them encounter all sorts of adventures on their way, and I found it refreshing that nothing that happened was over the top. So many of these movies take things to absurd and unbelievable extremes. In the end, this is just a warm-hearted, comedic romp that I didn't want to end.
4 out of 5 stars

"Middle Men"

Luke Wilson stars in this movie based on a true story. I had to remind myself that several times while watching this one. Wilson plays a family man who has a knack for negotiating for parties at loggerheads. Then, one day he falls into a deal that's too good to be true. He meets a couple of total knuckleheads who, believe it or not, basically invent internet porn. But that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Until then, no-one had thought of a way to use credit cards on the internet! Before you know it, they'e all rolling in dough. However, as luck would have it, the two knuckleheads he represents get involved with the Russian mafia. As you can imagine, things get pretty dicey. Again, it was hard to believe this is based on a true story. You just can't make up stuff this god!
4 out of 5 stars

"The Disaster Artist"

I was a little reluctant to watch this movie. It appeared to be a campy film, which, more often than not, are usually unwatchable. However, I was pleasantly surprised. This is the true story about the making of what many critics consider the worst movie ever made. The "Citizen Kane" of crappy films. It stars Dave Franco, a young aspiring actor who meets up with the mysterious Tommy, brilliantly played by James France. Tommy is a crazy film buff from some Eastern European country (perhaps) who seems to have an endless source of cash, crazy ideas, and the desire to make a movie. The cast also features Seth Rogan, Alison Brie, and Zac Efron. At the end of the film, we re treated to clips from the original film and the ones made for this movie.
4 out of 5 stars

"Lockout"

A wrongly convicted man is promised his freedom if he can rescue the president's daughter from a maximum security prison in space, which has been taken over in an insurrection. Not a highbrow movie by any means, but just a heavy dose of shoot-em-up action. It stars Guy Pearce and Maggie Grace and kept me rooting for the hero the whole way through. The villains were pretty, well, pretty darn villainous and the special effects were decent. If you're looking for an hour and a half of pure escapism, you'll enjoy this.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"Before I Fall"

If I had to describe this movie in one sentence, I'd call it "Groundhog Day for teens". But that would be oversimplifying it, and it's hardly a comedy. It's about one day in a young high school senior girl's life. She's part of a gang of cool girls who all go to a party where they have a fight with the weird, artsy girl. The kids end up in a car wreck and the narrator, played by Zoey Deutch ends up dying. As expected, she wakes up the next morning, obviously startled, and has to live the day over again. The film is a little on the sappy side, but I enjoyed it for the fine acting, especially Ms Deutch, and the moral of the story. It's a tad predictable, but not too preachy, and I thought it was worth watching.
3.5 suit of 5 stars

"Rememory"

It's billed as a sci-fi movie but it's more of a mystery. Actually, that doesn't describe it either. The film takes place in the near future where a scientist invents a machine designed to record ones memories. He plans on using it as a therapeutic tool to help patients deal with and confront suppressed memories. When he mysteriously dies, one of his former patients, played brilliantly by Peter Dinklage, investigates. While the film deals with the investigation, it ultimately focuses on emotional healing. And there's also a plot twist at the end that I didn't see coming.
4 out of 5 stars.

"3022"

As the title implies, this sleeper of a sci-fi film takes place in the year 3022. A crew on a ship in deep space awake to discover that the earth has been destroyed, and they're the last survivors of the human race. The small crew is slowly decimated. I know it probably sounds like a snooze fest, but trust me, it's not. The acting is absolutely riveting, the cinematography is great, and the writing is superb. After reflecting on this movie, I came to the conclusion that it could almost have been a stage play. If you're looking for a gripping drama, this one's a gem.
4 out of 5 stars

"The Lovebirds"

"A long days journey into a crazy night" is how I'd describe this movie. A couple, played by Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiari, witness a murder on their way to a dinner party. Then all hell breaks loose. They're pursued by the police and the murderer. It reminded me a little of "After Hours" in that, just when you think things can't get any crazier, they do. I though the dialogue was extremely well done and the two leads had incredible chemistry. They play of each other perfectly and you have to pay close attention to get all their funny comments. Often, they're speaking over each other and you're tempted to back up the movie and replay the scene. I hope the two work together on more films.
4 out of 5 stars

"The Wrong Missy"

I love the term "screwball comedy". And that the phrase that perfectly describes this movie. A quiet, super straight middle-age man goes on a blind date where he meets a totally out of control loon named Missy. She's obviously not the right woman for him. However, on a business trip he meets another Missy who seems to be his soulmate. They have so much in common it's uncanny. So on an corporate retreat to Hawaii, he inadvertently invites the wrong Missy to join him. Awkward moments doesn't even come close to describing the trip. It's so over the top it's ridiculous. Warning: lots of absolutely filthy language, so if that bothers you, take a pass. I found myself laughing out loud several times, which is unusual for me. Very funny film and one I think I'll have to watch again when I need a good pick-me-up.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"The Half of It"

I have to admit, I'm a sucker for intelligent, well-made teen movies. This one is another take on the Cyrano story. A sweet, but inarticulate jock is in love with a popular beauty queen. He gets the smartest kid in the school to write letters and texts to her. Trouble is, she falls in love with the same girl. No big surprises here--it's just an enjoyable hour and a half of superb acting and well written dialogue.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"Here Alone"

I guess it could loosely be called a zombie movie. It's more about survival after a virus hits the country and turns everyone into, okay, I guess, zombies. I found this movie super creepy, and I'm not usually a fan of these flicks. But I enjoyed it, especially considering the weird pandemic times we're currently living through. The lead, played by Lucy Walters, is out in the woods, trying to survive on her own. She had fled the city with her husband and young daughter, but they became infected and died. Eventually another couple runs into her, and the three work together to carry on. Obviously it's a grim tale of survival, but I thought Walters did a superb job. If I was out in the woods, I'd definitely want her on my side!
3.5 out of 5 stars

"The Ghost Who Walks"

Garland Scott plays a criminal who rats on his former boss to get out of prison early. He's determined to reunite with his wife and the daughter he's never met. He's constantly one step ahead of the gangsters who are determined to do him in. The movie is super suspenseful, as you'd imagine, and although you know it's not going to end well, you just have to stay with it. Scott does an amazing job, and the cinematography is absolutely brilliant. I haven't seen a film this intense in quite a while.
3.5 out of 5 stars

"Dean"

I'm a big fan of Demetri Martin. I think he's one of the smartest comedians around, and I love his stand-up comedy specials on Netflix. When I heard he'd written and starred in a movie, I was a bit hesitant to watch it. I've seen movies by other excellent comedians that, well, were a bit disappointing. But this film was excellent. And it's much more than a comedy--it has a great deal of depth. Martin plays Dean, a young illustrator whose mother has recently passed away. He and his father, brilliantly played by Kevin Kline, are dealing with their loss. Dean flies out to L.A. for a job interview while his dad, against his wishes, decides to sell their Brooklyn home. Martin's clever illustrations are interwoven quite effectively into the film and add to its significant charm. The movie is about grieving, without being melancholy, and the prospect of budding romance. It's not a laugh riot, but it's not a downer either. Just a solid hour and a half of great filmaking.
4 out of 5 stars

                                   

"The Death of Stalin"

As the title implies, this film is about, you guessed it. the death of Stalin! Macabre and grim? Well, with humorous and outstanding performances by Steve Buscemi, Jeffrey Tambor, Michael Palin, an and scores of other familiar faces, it's anything but. The action starts one the evening of the demise of the ruthless dictator and covers the struggle for power in the immediate aftermath of his death. The dialogue is nothing short of brilliant--often a speaker will begin a statement, then switch positions mid-sentence, depending on the reaction of his colleagues. What a fitting movie to watch while we witness a similar dystopian drama unfold in Washington today. I can't recommend this movie highly enough.
5 out of 5 stars

"Justine"

On the surface, this looks like your typical Hallmark Hall of Fame family drama. But appearances can be deceiving. Especially in the case of this movie. It deals with issues like racism, grief, intimacy and much more. The story centers around a young woman, played by Stephanie Turner, who has recently lost her husband. She moves in with her father-in-law with her two young daughters and takes a job as a nanny for a girl, Justine,  who is wheelchair bound. The two of them bond and bring out the best in each other. But all is not peachy keen.The movie takes a few unexpected turns that keep things interesting. I thought Ms Turner did an outstanding job and look forward to seeing her in other challenging roles. Perhaps the only negative thing I can say about the film is that I thought Justine's parents were a bit two dimensional.
4 out of 5 stars

"Frank & Lola"

Frank (Michael Shannon) a celebrity chef in Las Vegas is obsessed with Lola (Imogen Poots). The two fall in love, but when Lola reveals she was raped by her mother's boyfriend, Frank travels to Paris to confront her assailant. The movie takes several unexpected twists and turns, but keeps you guessing right until the closing moments. It's one of the more unusual tales of love and obsession I've seen in quite a while. The plot may be somewhat thin, but the two leads are so good, you don't mind the wild ride at all. If anyone understands the ending, could you please email me and file me in?
3.5 out of 5 stars

"Get Him to the Greek"

It's not just about drugs, sex, and rock and roll. But it's a big part of this fun movie. A nerdy young intern at a record company (Jonah Hill) gets a choice assignment: to get an out of control rock star (Russell Brand) from London to The Greek Theater in L.A. for the opening night of a new world tour. As you'd expect, it's one wild ride, filled with plenty of drugs and booze, loose babes, and a whole lot more. But this movie has its serious moments as well. Without giving away too much, it ends up well for everyone. A much better movie that it looked like in the trailers. Give it a shot! I don't think you'll be disappointed.
4 out of 5 stars

"The Interview"

Stupid. Offensive. Vulgar. Sexist. Outrageous. I.E., Just about what you'd expect from a Seth Rogan movie. It definitely appealed to the inner 14-year old high schooler in me! I  laughed out loud several times, which I really do watching a movie. It stars Mr. Rogan and James Franco and about a popular interview show that Kim Jong Un is a huge fan of. He invites the team to North Korea for an interview. When the CIA gets wind of it, they plot to have them assassinate the feared leader. It's fairly predictable, but I thought the writing was top notch. One of the funnier movies I've seen in a long time. In these troubling times, it's a great hour and a half diversion.
4 out of 5 stars

"All the Bright Places"

I've been a huge fan of Elle Fanning since I saw her in one of her first films, "Phoebe in Wonderland."  What a gifted actor. And she absolutely shines in this Netflix movie. The story, based on an international best-selling novel, is about a young couple with emotional and mental issues. Together, they help each other heal, come out of their protective shells, and discover the beauty of the world around them. The movie is somewhat slow paced, as it needs to be, however I was captivated from the first few minutes in. If you're a fan of Ms Fanning, I highly recommend this one.
4 out of 5 stars

"Rich Kids"

This a perfect example of why I love indie films. It's fairly low budget, but features a brilliant script and excellent acting from a relatively unknown cast of young actors. On the surface, the story is simple. A group of poor, teenage Latinos break into the estate of some rich people who are away on vacation. They play in the swimming pool, raid the bar, and dress up in the family's fancy clothes. But the story goes a lot deeper. They explore their relationships with each other and the world in general. It gets pretty deep and philosophical and ends up in places I didn't expect when the film started. And the acting is practically flawless. I also enjoyed the soundtrack. Highly recommended.
4 out of 5 stars

"Mr. Right"

It's petty rare that I laugh out loud watching a movie. But "Mr. Right" got me several times. It's so over the top, you can't help but enjoy it. After breaking up with her boyfriend, Anna Kendrick goes crazy, partying, cooking everything in sight and then meets Sam Rockwell. He warns her that he's an assassin, which she doesn't believe at first. He's on a mission to bump off all the folks who hire him to kill someone else. Mayhem ensues. It's so over the top, you just throw your hands up and let the movie take you along for a ride. I thought the dialog was clever, and the chemistry between the two leads was undeniable. Just a great hour and a half of pure escapism.
4 out of 5 stars

"The Foreigner"

This movie was way better than I expected. It's about a Vietnamese immigrant (Jackie Chan) whose young daughter is killed in a terrorist explosion in Belfast. He's out for revenge and calls on a high-ranking IRA minister (Pierce Brosnan) to help him find out who was responsible for his daughter's death. Because he was trained by the U.S. Special Forces, he's truly a force to be reckoned with. There are some martial arts fight scenes, but they're kept to a minimum. The two lead actors give noteworthy performances and the film keeps you hooked right until the end.
4 out of 5 stars.

"Chloe"

When a successful doctor, played by Julianne Moore, suspects her husband, Liam Neeson is cheating on her, she hires a prostitute to seduce him and prove herself right. The story is about the couple and their son, who are fairly dysfunctional and have a problem communicating. The plot takes a couple of unexpected twists and things get interesting. The acting and writing are above average. Not a great film, but very entertaining
4 out of 5 stars.

"The Last Face"

Powerful movie, but not for the squeamish. It weaves the complicated love lives of two doctors with the story of war-torn West Africa. Charlize Theron is an aid director for a humanitarian organization who is in love with a field doctor, played by Javier Bardem. The story jumps back and forth in time, which I found a bit confusing at times. The two spend quite a bit of time on the ground caring for the sick and injured. It's brutal and graphic at times, and often gets quite intense. My only complaint is that much of the dialogue between the two was just above a whisper, so I missed some of what they shared in their intimate moments. I guess I'll just have to watch it again. I thought the cinematography was some of the best I've ever seen. And how can you beat the two principals when it comes to riveting performances?
4 stars out of 5

"Nowhere Boy"

Although I'm a lifelong Beatles fan, I really didn't know anything about John Lennon's early life. This well-done biopic gives a great deal of insight into his formative years. It tells of his high school and early college days in Liverpool, where he was raised by his aunt. Unbeknownst to him, his mother actually lived a few blocks away. He eventually meets her and her other family and a somewhat strained relationship begins. The movie also covers his musical journey without the "And then they became famous and changed the world of music!" ending  I was expecting. Great acting and a nice vignette into late 50s Britain.
4 out of 5 stars

"Moonwalkers"

Just a fun little bit of cinematic escapism. The plot involves a CIA agent, brilliantly played by Ron Perlman, who's assigned to hire Stanley Kubrick to film a fake moon landing, just in case the real one fails. While in London, he meets a financially-troubled rock band manager who poses as Kubrick's agent. From here, things get crazy. It's a well done spoof on late 60s England, complete with an overdose of drug use, naked hippie girls, and a smattering of violence. I saw a few reviews comparing it to the Austin Powers films, which I guess is fair. But I enjoyed this silliness a bit more. Although it's just about as childish and mindless.
3 out of 5 stars

"The Danish Girl"

This is the true story of a married painting couple in 1920's Denmark. When the husband dresses up in his wife's clothes to pose for her, his feminine side is awoken. He slowly unleashes the woman locked up within him and is transformed into a full fledged woman. Eddie Redmayne's performance is absolutely riveting and his wife, played by Alicia Vikander, is equally great. It''s not surprising that she won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role. At first she feels betrayed, but over time, becomes totally supportive of his plight. Not only is the story fascinating, but the cinematography is almost painterly. In truth, I was tempted to stop the film countless times and do a screen grab, to use in a painting later.
4.5 out of 5 stars