tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74652693875105174632024-03-17T20:04:16.807-07:00Movie Junkie MarkMovie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.comBlogger517125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-91409143826560887302024-03-15T09:40:00.000-07:002024-03-15T09:40:04.464-07:00"Ode to Joy"<p> 2019 * R * 1h 37m I think everyone of us is dysfunctional in a way. So we can relate to people like the main character in this funny, offbeat rom-com. It deals with a condition called Cataplexy, which I'm not sure is actually a real thing. At least not the the extent it's depicted in this movie. It causes people to fall asleep when experiencing strong emotions, which in this case is joy. </p><p>Charlie (Martin Freeman) has a nice, quiet job working in a library. It's a safe haven, hidden away from a public and situations that could cause him to react to joy. It's hilarious watching him walk to work, and how witnessing other people's happiness starts to effect him. He simply has to look away from people smiling or even holding hands! Then one day a beautiful and unsuspecting woman Francesca (Morena Baccarin) walks into his life. He's attracted to her, but he has to be careful not to fall in love with her and actually experience joy. (The horror! The Horror!) </p><p>The film takes a number of twists and turns--some expected and some out of the blue. All adding up to a fun, and funny romp. This is just a charming, funny little indie film that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Both Freeman and Baccarin are fabulous and they have wonderful chemistry together. We sure could use a few more movies like this in our lives!</p><p>4 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy (with your library card, YouTube and Tubi. Also on AMC+ and IFC Films Unlimited. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2HHDGIC01YI" width="320" youtube-src-id="2HHDGIC01YI"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-41902471301294874242024-03-09T10:08:00.000-08:002024-03-09T10:08:11.912-08:00"Little Fish"<p> 2020 * Unrated * 1h 41m I'm a huge fan of sci-fi movies of all types. In general I think they pretty much fall into two categories. The first are the ones where you suspend your belief in reality. They either take place in an alternate universe or are set way into the future. The second category are the movies that take place either now or in the very near future and are entirely plausible .I feel these have quite a bit more impact. "Little Fish" falls into the latter category. </p><p>In the film, a catastrophic pandemic is sweeping the planet. It's called NIA, which stands for Neuro-Inflammatory Affliction, and it causes people to lose their memories. In some, the change is immediate, while in others itthe loss is gradual. The movie reminds me a little of the fine "Perfect Sense." in which people lose their senses, one at a time. It's equally as devastating and moving. Especially with two remarkable leading actors as fine as Olivia Cooke and Jack O'Connell. </p><p>Emma (Cooke) and Jude (O'Connell) are a happily married couple. The film jumps back and forth between the present day to when they first met and started dating. We're also treated to scenes from their wedding day. Then tragedy strikes when Jude begins forgetting things. The couple go to the hospital where it's confirmed that he does indeed have the disease. After the initial shock wears off, they make a plan to deal with the affliction. They create a wall of photos with sticky notes identifying the various people in their lives. </p><p>The couple is so in love, it's absolutely heartbreaking to see Jude forget his past. But they soldier on, and continue to cling to each other and their memories as best they can. It's interesting that "Little Fish" came out during the beginning of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Tragic losses aren't that far behind us. </p><p>Just about everything about this touching, powerful, and beautiful film are perfect. I especially enjoyed the cinematography and the haunting soundtrack. If you're looking for something a bit different, give this fine film a viewing. You won't be disappointed. </p><p>4 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy.com with your library card. Also on Hulu and to rent on YouTube and Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/knPhaXYG4YA" width="320" youtube-src-id="knPhaXYG4YA"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-2092844884732666072024-03-04T12:55:00.000-08:002024-03-04T12:55:08.034-08:00"Spaceman"<p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #f6f6f5; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: arial;">2024 * R * 1h 47m I'll say this right off the bat: I'm not a huge Adam Sandler fan. In fact, when I see what looks like an interesting film on Netflix, I'll put it in my queue. But when I find out Sandler is in it, out it goes. But every once in a while he surprises me. And lately, he's been appearing and shining is some pretty dramatic roles. I especially enjoyed his performance in "Uncut Gems."</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #f6f6f5; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #f6f6f5; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;">I sort of had my doubts with this one. But I'm glad I watched it. I'm a huge sci-fi buff. In fact, my favorite movie all time is "2001: A Space Odyssey." I think this one is almost as deep. It's more about being a human than anything else. And it's ultimately about coming to terms with who we are.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #f6f6f5; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;"><br /></span></div></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #f6f6f5;">Jacob Prochazka (Sandler) is an astronaut on a long mission to collect dust from the outer atmosphere of Jupiter. His pregnant wife Lenka (Carrie Mulligan) is back on earth. The two are having marital problems and seldom communicate. One day he meets a spider-like creature on his ship. He's a bit shocked at first but eventually he gets comfortable with the creature. Over the course of time, the two of them have some very heady conversations. His presence makes the viewer wonder whether he really exists or is he a figment of Jacob's imagination?</span></div></span><p></p><div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Verdana, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #f6f6f5; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;">I won't say much more about this film except that just about everything is perfect. The acting. Storyline. Special effects. And the beautiful soundtrack. If you want an action flick, avoid this movie. But if you want something deeper and moving, give it a shot. Kudos to everyone involved in making this fine film.</span> </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">4 out of 5 stars</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Currently streaming on Netflix </span></p><p dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;">.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rNZ0xKaCdus" width="320" youtube-src-id="rNZ0xKaCdus"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p></div>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-74338882256685818862024-02-29T12:31:00.000-08:002024-03-11T14:51:58.988-07:00"Next Exit"<p> 2022 * Not Rated * 1h 46m I love a good buddy road trip flick. Well, this isn't your typical one. Not by a long shot. It's the sci-fi debut for writer/director Mali Elfman, and what a terrific first outing it is. The film takes place in the very near future, where a scientist is doing controversial experiments with sending people into the afterlife, with the hope of taking humans to the next stage of evolution. A pretty dark premise. </p><p>Well two New Yorkers volunteer to participate. They're strangers, but they end up sharing a ride out west, where the project is taking place. The couple, Rose (Katie Parker) and Teddy (Rahul Kohli) are at each other's throats right from the get-go. They fight about everything, and it's amusing yet uncomfortable at the same time. They both have troubled pasts, which they eventually open up about. Like most good road-trip movies, they meet plenty of characters along the way, which makes the adventure that much more interesting. </p><p>Naturally, since opposites attract, especially in the movies, they end up reluctantly falling for each other. However, this could be problematic since at the end of their trip, they've volunteered to commit suicide as part of the research. I won't say anything more about the outcome of the film, you'll just have to watch it to see what happens. Overall, I really enjoyed the film. The two leads were terrific, the story was very engaging, and the cinematography was spot on. My only complaint was the soundtrack. I thought it was petty annoying at times. It reminded me a bit of the sounds Yorgos Lanthimos incorporates into his films. </p><p>4 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy. Also on Hulu and to rent on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sKqR2rH2kmE" width="320" youtube-src-id="sKqR2rH2kmE"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-47202487670507252722024-02-23T04:22:00.000-08:002024-03-01T08:28:06.315-08:00"Ben is Back"<p>2018 * R * 1h 43m I don't know how I missed this one when it came out. You'd think with a star like Julia Roberts in it, it would have garnered more attention. And with Oscar-worthy performances by her and Lucas Hedges, this film should have been way more popular than it is. The story deals with a tough subject, drug addiction, and the tough love a family uses to attempt to control it. What a powerful, intense, and thoroughly captivating movie it is. </p><p>Holly (Roberts) is returning home with her kids after a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve service at their church. As they pull up in the driveway, her oldest son Ben (Hedges) is waiting for them. He's been in rehab for drug addiction and wasn't expected home. He reassures them that the visit was approved by his sponsor. Well, that's the first in a series of lies you expect from a hard-core junkie. And it's just the beginning of the problems the family faces. </p><p>Holly reluctantly agrees to let her son spend one day with the family, as long as he stays by her side the entire time he's there. While the family attends Christmas service, someone vandalizes their home and steals their beloved dog. So Holly and Ben go out on a mission in search of the dog. It's an intense journey, and will have you biting your nails until the credits roll. Just about the entire movie takes place over the course of one evening. Sort of a long day's journey into night, if you will. The story takes a number of twists and turns, and you never know what's going to happen next. </p><p>If you're looking for a well made, well acted thriller, give this one a whirl! </p><p>4 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free on Hoopla (with your library card). Also on Plex, Pluto TV, and Prime Video.</p><p>It says "Video Unavailable" but click on "Watch on YouTube" and it plays! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dwxmCO_-mYc" width="320" youtube-src-id="dwxmCO_-mYc"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-47579294507730600032024-02-16T06:59:00.000-08:002024-02-16T06:59:14.940-08:00"How to Build a Girl"<p>2019 * R * 1h 42m When it comes to whacky, offbeat coming of age flicks, the Brits really shine! If you're looking for a fun, well written and acted indie movie you'll definitely love this little gem. It features some familiar actors in supporting roles. But the real star is Beanie Feldstein who's an absolute delight to watch. She almost singlehandedly carries the entire film. </p><p>Johanna Morrigan (Feldstein) is a young, precocious, and nerdy kid, living with her working-class family in Wolverhampton. Her life is pretty mundane until one day she decides to reinvent herself. She decides since she has a gift for writing, she's going to start doing music reviews for a hot magazine, loosely based on NME in London. She quickly learns about the business and at first it's fun to watch her adapt. But her popularity quickly goes to her head and she turns into an insufferable, egotistical pain in the butt. </p><p>She even turns on her own family. And when you see her interact with her peers, you wonder if they like her or are merely tolerating her and secretly despise her? Does she figure out what a horrible person she's become and redeem herself in the end? You'll just have to watch this one and find out for yourself. </p><p>I really enjoyed this one. I especially liked Ms. Feldstein's performance and look forward to seeing what she does next. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy. Also on AMC+, and IFC Films Unlimited. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X7rPlAv1Ceo" width="320" youtube-src-id="X7rPlAv1Ceo"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-10852019407770454522024-02-13T05:15:00.000-08:002024-02-13T05:15:56.870-08:00A short video I just made<p>I don't normally do this, but I'm posting a short movie of mine. Pardon the crudeness of it, but I'm trying to figure out how to use iMovie.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3AM_wSMJbFk" width="320" youtube-src-id="3AM_wSMJbFk"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-11200973038925690462024-02-07T07:52:00.000-08:002024-02-08T05:27:10.261-08:00"Plus One"<p>2019 * Not Rated * 1h 38m I've been watching a fair amount of heavier, and darker movies. So I needed something fairly mindless to view. When this one popped up on Netflix, I thought I'd give it a chance. I was not disappointed. Sure, it's totally formulaic, and you pretty much know what's going to happen. But sometimes, that's okay. And this turned out to be a heck of a lot funnier than I was expecting. </p><p>"Plus One" stars two actors I'd never heard of--Jack Quaid and Maya Erskine. They both play off each other well and are absolutely hilarious together. The plot is pretty basic. Two old friends Ben (Quaid) and Alice (Erskine) are inundated with wedding invitations. It seems like everyone they know is getting married. So they decide to be each others "plus one" during the wedding season. They agree ahead of time that the relationship is going to be strictly platonic. Yeah, right!</p><p>As you'd guess, they eventually fall for each other. They not only didn't see it coming, but they try to resist their natural attraction The two of them have some amazing chemistry, and here it's funny that Alice is the foul-mouthed one. She spews a constant stream of one liners and digs at both Ben and the situation they've gotten into. I laughed out loud a number of times, which is pretty rare for me. Overall, I really enjoyed the film. I just wish there were more like it out there!</p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Note to parents: While the movie is Not Rated, I'd probably rate it "R" mainly for language. </p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix, Hulu, The Roku Channel, and to rent on YouTube and Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RZSeK851vZY" width="320" youtube-src-id="RZSeK851vZY"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-85548896995367362692024-02-02T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-02T06:45:29.361-08:00"Queenpins"<p> 2021 * R * 1h 50m When I read the description of the movie, I was reluctant to watch it. It's a true story about a couple women who are involved in a multi-million dollar coupon scam. Huh? This had the potential to be either really lame, or really funny. It turned out to be the latter. An improbable story helped out by some great acting from Kristen Bell, Kirby, Paul Walter Hauser, and Vince Vaughn. </p><p>The story is about a housewife Connie (Bell) who's in a loveless marriage. Her husband is constantly on the road and to relieve her boredom becomes an avid coupon clipper. She's over the top with it and has a pantry chock full of groceries she's saved money on. One day she opens up a box of stale cereal. She writes a complaint letter to the company, and when she receives a coupon for a free replacement box, she hatches a plan. She gets together with her neighbor JoJo (Kirby) and the two of them start a campaign where they write complaining letters.to all sorts of companies for free coupons. Then they start selling the coupons. That's just slightly illegal, but then they take it to the next level. </p><p>At this point, it's come to the attention of Ken (Hauser) who deals with coupon fraud. He's absolutely hilarious as he tries to get the FBI involved. When the case is turned over to the Post Office, Vince Vaughn's character teams up with him to try to locate the culprits. Overall, it's a pretty lighthearted, funny movie that I got a kick out of. It's not a great movie, but it is a couple hours of good fun, with a couple laugh out loud moments. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v90YxH6lR_8" width="320" youtube-src-id="v90YxH6lR_8"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-20061724489511552712024-01-24T06:47:00.000-08:002024-01-27T13:44:55.119-08:00"Cowboys & Aliens"<p> 2011 * PG-13 * 1h 59m I remember when this film came out, I blew it off because of the title. I figured it was some animated screwball comedy aimed at kids. When it popped up on Netflix, I put it in my queue and after seeing the trailer, decided to give it a whirl. What a pleasant surprise. </p><p>Just as its title implies, it is indeed about cowboys and aliens. When I thought about it, why do all alien-themed movies take place in the present day.? If aliens do indeed exist, they could visit our planet at any time in history. So the juxtaposition of aliens in the wild west could actually take place. The story is basically about ETs visiting earth to mine for gold. When humans interfere, they start killing us. </p><p>An unlikely coalition is formed to battle the invaders. Townsfolk team up with a bunch of bandits ,and a large group of Native Americans. The action scenes are very real and believable, not comical like I was expecting. The film is aided by a stellar group of actors which includes Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford, Sam Rockwell, Paul Dano, Olivia Wilde, and Abigail Spencer. It's an exciting shoot 'em up Western with a twist. If you like action flicks, give this one a try. Trust me on this one. I was pretty skeptical, but I was not disappointed. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix and to rent on Prime Video.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/86-MAuPR00M" width="320" youtube-src-id="86-MAuPR00M"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-39248544513829231132024-01-19T12:57:00.000-08:002024-01-19T12:57:07.571-08:00"Days of the Bagnold Summer"<p> 2019 * NR * 1h 26m I experienced firsthand what angsty teenagers are like. So I could definitely relate to the mom in this charming, humorous little British indie film. The movie features great performances from its two leads: Monica Dolan and Earl Cave. It's well written and has a very English sensibility about it. While there aren't a lot of laugh out loud moments in the movie, it'll certainly put you in a happy mood. </p><p>A young teen Daniel is supposed to spend his summer holiday with his father and his new wife in Florida. At the last minute, the dad bails because his wife is expecting a baby soon, and he thinks it'll be too much stress on them. So he's resigned to hang out with his quiet, bookish librarian mom Sue (Dolan). Daniel is your typical teen, who's totally into heavy metal and listens to bands like Metallica round the clock. </p><p>Sue does her best to entertain her son, but sadly, he finds almost noting in life very entertaining. It's this strained relationship that's at the crux of the story. Daniel is pretty abrasive at times, but in the end, the two come to terms with each other. And while the film doesn't have a totally happy ending, they do come to an appreciation for each other. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars. </p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy (with your library card), and Tubi, and YouTube. Also on The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2d4jQyw4h1M" width="320" youtube-src-id="2d4jQyw4h1M"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-82779276915541348262024-01-11T09:44:00.000-08:002024-01-11T09:44:46.415-08:00"After Yang"<p> 2021 * PG * 1h 36m This movie could loosely be categorized as a sci-fi film. But it's really a zen-like reflection on life and what it means to be human. It's gently paced and subtle. Not a lot happens, but what does happen, I found deeply moving. If you're looking for an action flick, avoid this one at all costs. </p><p>"After Yang" takes place in the near future. A couple, Jake (Colin Ferrell) and Kyra (Jodie Turner-Smith) buy a second-hand AI robot Yang (Justin H. Min) to look after and be a companion to their adopted daughter Mika (Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja). Mika was born in China and the couple want her to learn about her birth country. One day Yang starts to fail and it turns out he can't be repaired. Jake finds out that Yang has been secretly recording snippets of his time with the family over the years. When he starts reviewing the video vignettes, it's revealed that Yang's hidden a part of his life from the family. It's almost as if Yang was becoming human. </p><p>I thought the performances, along with a beautiful storyline, and a quiet soundtrack combined to make a gorgeous film. I can see why it isn't better known. I've rarely seen a film that was this profound, as a result of being this subtle. It gently sweeps over you like an ocean tide. Yang delivers a line that I particularly enjoyed, and I'll paraphrase it: "Something isn't anything without nothing." </p><p><br /></p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy and Hoopla with your library card. And on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kwp32zLc08c" width="320" youtube-src-id="Kwp32zLc08c"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-44671200238426127722024-01-04T07:10:00.000-08:002024-01-04T07:10:24.662-08:00"The Best Offer"<p>2013 * R * 2h 11m Who doesn't like a good thriller/mystery? This is one of the best I've seen in quite a while. Of course, nobody does it better than the British. This one grabbed me right from the beginning and had me guessing what was going to transpire right up to the end credits! It doesn't hurt that there were amazing performances from Geoffrey Rush, Jim Sturgess, Donald Sutherland, and Sylvia Hoeks. If you're looking for some compelling viewing, don't mis this one.</p><p>We meet Virgil Oldman (Rush), a fussy art dealer and auctioneer. He's made a fortune in the business and has amassed an incredible collection of art. He's been aided by his old friend Billy Whistler (Sutherland) who conspires with him during auctions to buy seriously undervalued paintings. Then one day he's invited to appraise a mansion full of art and furniture. There he encounters the mysterious owner of the estate--Claire Ibbetson (Hoeks). She speaks to him from behind the walls of the house, and it turns out she suffers from agoraphobia and hasn't left the house in years. </p><p>While he's searching through her house, he begins to find mechanical parts which he takes to his friend Robert (Sturgess), a gifted young watchmaker. It turns out that the parts are part of a priceless antique automaton. </p><p>That's all I'll tell you about this captivating movie. It's full of plot twists and turns and is great fun to watch. </p><p>4 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy (with your library card) and Tubi. Also on AMC+, IFC Film Unlimited, Showtime Anytime, and to rent on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zJGleGyahC8" width="320" youtube-src-id="zJGleGyahC8"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-85152713541701983972023-12-27T10:32:00.000-08:002023-12-30T09:57:54.431-08:00"Five Minutes of Heaven"<p>2009 * R * 1h 29m This is one of those movies that can't help making a big impression on you. The story is powerful, and the acting from the two principals, Liam Neeson and James Nesbitt is truly Oscar worthy. I'm not sure if it's based on a true story, but I wouldn't be surprised if it was wasn't inspired by real life. It's a film about violence and reconciliation. It has the feeling of a play since the two lead characters are on the screen for a majority of the film.</p><p>"Five Minutes of Heaven" takes place in war-torn Norther Ireland in 1975. 17-year old UVF member Alistair Little murders Jimmy Griffen in his home. The horrible crime is witnessed by Jimmy's younger brother Joe. Alistair ends up serving 12 years for his crime. Years later Alistair (Neeson) now travels the world helping resolve conflicts by getting opposing parties to sit down together to work out they differences. A tv network arranges a meeting between Alistair and Joe (Nesbitt), hoping the two can eventually heal. </p><p>A large part of the movie is witnessing the two men dealing with their inner pain, relieving their horrible memories of the crime, and hoping for them to move on. I found both the story and the performances absolutely riveting. It amazes me that this film isn't better known. Bravo to everyone involved in the making of this fine movie. </p><p>4 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Streaming for free on Kanopy (with your library card and Tubi. Also on AMC+, IFC Films Unlimied, The Roku Channel, and to rent on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LODsCo7XA6Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="LODsCo7XA6Q"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-17030262674182765602023-12-21T06:14:00.000-08:002023-12-21T06:14:10.322-08:00"Feast of the Seven Fishes"<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria;">2019 * Not Rated * 1h 39m</span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">The Holidays are all about family and friends, tradition, nostalgia, and memories. This film delivers all that in spades. It’s set in the 1970’s in a small town in coal country, and involves a sprawling Italian-American family and their friends. As the narrator informs us, preparing the food for Christmas Eve is a major event, and involves the cooking of seven fishes—which would be better described as “The Feast of the Seven Sea Creatures” since it includes shrimp, squid, eel, and oysters—but that doesn’t have quite the same ring to it.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">You’ve no doubt seen the older generation of actors here in supporting roles before. They all do a wonderful job. The impressive cast of younger actors include Skylar Gisondo, Madison Iseman, Jess Darrow, Addison Timlin, and Josh Helman, who I can guarantee, you’ll be seeing a lot more of in the very near future. The movie involves the Italian uncles as they cook the various dishes, leading up to the big feast. It also centers around young Tony (Gisondo), an aspiring artist and his exploits. After breaking up with his childhood sweetheart, he’s set up on a blind date with Beth (Iseman). Unlike Tony, she comes from money and is looking for a bit of fun while her rich boyfriend is on a ski trip in Europe. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">The story jumps back and forth between madcap cooking scenes, and the slowly evolving romance with Tony and Beth--sort of a “Romeo and Juliette” if you will. It all makes for a very entertaining story. I have to say, this is not your typical, mindless Christmas movie. It’s a well written, involving, and heartfelt film that will definitely put you in the holiday mood. I just wish they’d make more movies like this!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">4 out of 5 stars</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">Currently streaming for free on Tubi. Also on Netflix, Peacock, Plex, The Roku Channel, and Pluto TV. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ODfozhutmrM" width="320" youtube-src-id="ODfozhutmrM"></iframe></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-42630348253798876472023-12-14T08:35:00.000-08:002023-12-14T08:35:50.140-08:00"Leave the World Behind"<p> 2023 * R * 2h 18m If you're a regular follower of my reviews, you know that I usually review under-the-radar, indie flicks. This latest offering from Netflix is hardly that. But I thought it was so good, it was definitely worth covering. It's a creepy, well-executed movie that will definitely stick with you for days after you see it. </p><p>A NYC couple Amanda (Julia Roberts) and Clay (Ethan Hawke) and their two children head out to a remote part of Long Island for a weekend vacation. Almost as soon as they get there, strange things start to happen. All communication is cut off including cell phones and TV & radio broadcasts. While at the beach, a huge oil tanker crashes into the shoreline. Then a pack of deer mysteriously appear out of the woods. Later that evening a black man and his daughter (G.H. Scott and Myha'la) arrive and claim they're the owners of the house and need a place to stay. They inform the family that things are getting crazy in the city and they needed to escape. </p><p>From here, things get weirder and weirder. I didn't know anything about the film before watching it. I wasn't sure if it turned out to be a monster movie or what it was going to evolve (devolve?) into. But there are a ton of surprises that'll keep you guessing right until the end. If you're in the mood for something unsettling, give this one a watch. Caution, if you watch it at night, you might want to watch something lighter before hitting the hay!</p><p>4 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xM4ILvKeTxs" width="320" youtube-src-id="xM4ILvKeTxs"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-87167788865635560282023-12-07T07:56:00.000-08:002023-12-07T07:56:42.916-08:00"Middle Man"<p>2016 * TV-MA * 1h 44m When I started watching this bizarre little film, I wondered where I'd seen the lead actor before. Turns out Jim O'Heir played Jerry in "Parks & Recreation," one of my favorite TV shows. I looked him up on IMDb and was amazed to find he's been in 183 movies and TV shows! That's an astonishing number for an actor that young. </p><p>Anyway, back to "Middle Man." Lenny Freeman (O'Heir) is a boring accountant. When his mother dies, she leaves him nothing but debt and her old Chevy. Lenny uses this as an excuse to pursue his dream--to head to Vegas and become a famous comedian. Problem is, he isn't funny. Not at all. His favorite comedies are old 1940s and 50s radio shows. But on the way out west, he picks up a mysterious character "Hitch" (Andrew J. West), a sleezebag who volunteers to be Lenny's manager. </p><p>Lenny goes on stage at a small bar/comedy club and bombs terribly. After his dismal performance, he has an encounter with one of his hecklers outside the bar. He wakes up the next morning to discover the man has been murdered, so he stuffs him in the trunk of his car. Hitch convinces him to go on stage that night and recount the story of him killing his heckler, bloody shirt and all. And lo and behold, the audience response is amazing! They love his "act" figuring he's fabricated the whole story. </p><p>From here on out, the story gets crazier and crazier. Sure, things get a little bloody, but it's only a movie. I've never seen anything quite like it. If you're in the mood for something truly different, you owe it to yourself to check out "Middle Man." </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming for free on Hoopla (with your library card) and Tubi. Also on Plex and to rent on Prime Video. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SZwiIfq6Ws0" width="320" youtube-src-id="SZwiIfq6Ws0"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-52568949189514172642023-12-01T05:41:00.000-08:002023-12-01T05:41:58.073-08:00"About Scout"<p> 2015 * Not Rated * 1h 49m This movie is part coming-of-age drama, part teen romance, and part road trip. It all adds up to a sweet, offbeat indie flick I really enjoyed. The film stars three young actors India Ennenga, James Frechevile, and Onata Aprile, with support from some solid stars including Ellen Burstyn, Danny Glover, and Jane Seymour.</p><p>Scout (Ennenga) and Lulu (Aprile) live with their grandmother (Burstyn) and are largely unsupervised. One day, young Lulu is taken away from her grandmother and given to her dad, who never wanted children. He works in a traveling circus and is constantly on the road. So the rebellious Scout decides to take matters in her own hands. She helps a young, suicidal mental patient Sam (Frecheville) escape the mental institution and the two hit the road in search of her little sister. </p><p>They steal a car and drive around Texas getting into all sorts of mischief. It's great fun watching the two young actors interact and watching them stay one step ahead of the law. While all this is taking place, they're being pursued by Red (Glover) who's been hired by Sam's wealthy mom. to bring him back home to NYC. This is an indie film in the truest sense of the word, even though it has some well known actors. What a pleasant surprise!</p><p>4 out of 5 stars. </p><p>Currently streaming for free on Kanopy (with your library card), Freevee, and Tubi. Also on Peacock, The Roku Chanel, and to rent on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r4XFp6bjLas" width="320" youtube-src-id="r4XFp6bjLas"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-36404973991417483012023-11-25T08:48:00.000-08:002023-11-25T08:48:17.188-08:00"Real Steel"<p> 2011 * PG-13 * 2h 7m I vaguely remember when this movie came out. I didn't know anything about it except that some of it was fixed in Detroit (my hometown), and I was pretty excited about that. Well, I finally got around to seeing it, and what a fun movie it turned out to be. </p><p>The story takes place in the near future where people are fascinated with robot boxing. Charlie (Hugh Jackman) is a retired boxing champion who has taken up robot boxing. He's just barely scraping by when he finds out his ex and the mother of his chile Max (Dakota Goyo) has died. His sister-in-law wants to adopt him but before the deal is sealed, Charlie negotiates to get his son for the summer and a bunch of cash. He uses the money to buy a new robot which is quickly destroyed. Then Max discovers an old, previous generation robot in a junkyard, which he rehabs and starts using to win bout after bout. </p><p>I thought the movie was great fun. It's wonderful to see the two learn about each other and bond. And the fight scenes are extremely engaging. Of course, the film is fairly predictable, but that's what you want in a family movie. If you've never seen "Real Steel" I encourage you to check it out. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix and to rent on Prime Video.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vU3ZqtbIRPI" width="320" youtube-src-id="vU3ZqtbIRPI"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-53842087847869557572023-11-17T13:43:00.000-08:002023-11-17T13:43:11.988-08:00"Towelhead"<p> 2007 * R * 2h 4m Director Alan Ball has mainly worked in tv and has "Six Feet Under"to his credit. He's also made interesting films and controversial movies like "American Beauty," and "Uncle Frank." His 2007 film "Towelhead" isn't for everyone, that's for sure. It tackles several difficult topics like teen sex, racism, and pedophilia. It's hard to watch at times, but ultimately, I thought it was excellent. </p><p>The story revolves around a young girl Jesira (Summer Bashir), who after her parents divorce, goes to live with her super-strict Lebanese-American father Rifat (Peter Macdissi) in Texas. The movie takes place during the onset of the first Gulf War and as a result, she has to deal with overt racism, both in school and her neighborhood. She just starting to awaken sexually, and is preyed upon by her neighbor's father, played by Aaron Ekhart. He's really creepy and you just want to smack him in the face. You keep your fingers crossed that something terrible will happen to him. </p><p>She starts hanging out with a young black schoolmate, and feels the backlash when her father forbids her from seeing him, due to his own racism. Just when things look terrible, she's taken under the wing of a kindly neighbor Molina (Toni Collette), who knows what she's going through. Without giving away the anding, let's just say things get resolved. </p><p>I thought the acting in this was terrific. Ms. Bashir really shined as did Toni Collette (as you've come to expect). If you're looking for something pretty powerful, check this one out. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Note to parents: This is definitely not for kids. </p><p>Streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy.com. And to rent on Amazon Prime. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WUVCvTHP_iY" width="320" youtube-src-id="WUVCvTHP_iY"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-23364848968767772452023-11-11T13:33:00.002-08:002023-11-11T13:33:20.392-08:00"The Change-Up"<p> 2011 * R * 1h 52m If you're in the mood for some raunchy, guys humor, I thought this one was pretty funny. It's one of those switched identity movies that, while pretty predictable, is good for lots of laughs. </p><p>Dave (Jason Bateman) and Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) have been friends since college. They haven't seen each other win ages and arrange an evening out for some drinks. The two of them are polar opposites, Mitch is pot-smoking, lazy bum, who acts like he's still in college. Dave is a successful, corporate laywer who's married with three kids. After talking about their lives, they each wish they were in the other's shoes. As luck would have it, they make this wish while peeing in a magical fountain. And PRESTO! They switch bodies. </p><p>It's great fun watching them try to fake their lives. Dave in Mitch's body somewhat hesitantly starts going after women--chiefly a younger protégée at his law firm. And Mitch in Dave's body learns what it means to be a dad with two babies. And when they discover the magic fountain has been moved, they scramble to find its new location so they can switch back. </p><p>I really enjoyed "The Change-Up" and honestly laughed out loud several times. I think you will too! </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Streaming on Netflix and Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p3W7SIrMMaQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="p3W7SIrMMaQ"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-80738847106225998972023-11-06T13:48:00.002-08:002023-11-06T14:24:05.711-08:00"Cold Pursuit"<p>2019 * R * 1h 59m Who doesn't love a good revenge movie? Ive noticed that there are two types of movies that fall into this category. The ones featuring a total badass and includes a lot of explosions and over the top violence. Then there are the ones where an average Joe takes his revenge methodically. "Cold Pursuit" falls into the latter category. And with an actor like Liam Neeson, it's great fun.</p><p>The movie starts out when Nels' (Neeson) son is inexplicably killed by some drug dealers. Slowly, Neeson starts discovering everyone involved in the death. One at a time he starts picking them off. The head dealer is "The Viking" ((Tom Bateman), who's a total sleezebag. Through a mix up, the local Native American drug dealers get involved in the turf war. But Neeson bides his time as he works towards extracting his revenge. </p><p>It's one amusing ride where you root for the good guys the whole time. Adding to the adventure is the beautiful location. The film takes place in the Rockies and the scenery is just gorgeous. Laura Dern is also great in a supporting role. She's married to Nels, however she leaves him when he won't talk about the loss of their son. If you're looking for a fun action flick, don't miss this one. </p><p>3 1/2 out of 5 stars</p><p>Currently streaming on Netflix and to rent on Prime Video. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0phuNQQ_gHI" width="320" youtube-src-id="0phuNQQ_gHI"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-30616974585409322792023-10-31T09:35:00.000-07:002023-10-31T09:35:02.216-07:00"Beware the Gonzo"<p> 2010 * TV-14 * 1h 34m For some reason, I've been seeing a lot of excellent teen movies lately. Maybe the algorithms have been pointing me in that direction. Anyway, this is one of those "Rebel with a Cause" type films. It was somewhat predictable, but I thought the acting and writing was above average. Very entertaining little flick.</p><p>Eddie "Gonzo" Gilman Ezra Miller) is a smart young upstart. He works on the school paper which is run by the super jock Gavin (Jesse McCartney). Gavin doesn't like to make waves and runs boring articles. When Gonzo has finally had enough, he starts his own radical paper. And what a stir he makes. He teams up with Evie (Zoe Kravitz) and runs the paper with a bunch of misfits, who are totally into bucking the system. They run articles about the school and its bullies that soon get the attention of the principal. As you'd expect, it gets Gonzo suspended. Then he takes it a little too far and he manages to make enemies of every single classmate. </p><p>Does he end up learning a lesson? You'll just have to give it a watch and see for yourself!</p><p>If you're looking for a fun movie with a bunch of young stars on their way to making it big, check out "Beware of the Gonzo." </p><p>Streaming for free on Kanopy and Hoopla (with your library card), Tubi, and Freevee. Also on Plex, Peacock, Pluto TV, and The Roku Channel.</p><p>31/2 out of 5 stars</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/txwYSo-b9jY" width="320" youtube-src-id="txwYSo-b9jY"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-48018593001333340142023-10-22T09:38:00.004-07:002023-10-22T09:38:59.323-07:00"Clara"<p> <span style="font-family: Cambria;">2018 * Not Rated * 1h 45m</span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">One of my favorite movie genres is science fiction. I’ve been a science nerd since I was a kid. So when I first saw the movie</span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">“2001: A Space Odyssey,” when I was a teenager, it blew me away. To this day it’s my favorite movie of all time. I’ve probably seen it at least a dozen times. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed numerous other sci-fi flicks like “Contact,” “Arrival,” and “Interstellar” to name but a few. What they all have in common is they’re intelligent movies that are totally believable, they’re well crafted, and they feature great performances.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">I recently stumbled upon the film “Clara.” When I saw it described as a romantic science fiction movie I was a bit skeptical, to say the east. After all, romance and science are somewhat opposite notions. But that’s one of the main themes in this remarkable movie. It’s the sophomore effort of director Akash Sherman and what an impressive outing it is. “Clara” is a gently paced movie where the story slowly unfolds. You won’t find a lot of action but that’s its strength. What you will find is a beautiful story, sensational acting, and an ending that I can assure you, will take you by surprise. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">We first meet Dr. Isaac Bruno (Patrick J. Adams), a professor of astrophysics giving a lecture. The good doctor is not exactly a people person, to say the least. In fact, he’s downright rude and condescending to his students. It’s this attitude that not only gets him in trouble, it gets him fired. At first he’s shocked, but he soon realizes that it’s a blessing in disguise. Bruno has long been obsessed with searching for intelligent life out in the universe, and this newly found free time could prove to be beneficial to his quest. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">One day he spots a young woman in the atrium painting a mural of a colorful galaxy and he makes a mental note of her. Bruno is excited about a couple of recent events related to space exploration. One is the launch of the TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) Space Telescope, which is an upgrade of the Kepler, which discovered a huge number of planets. The second event is the future launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, which will significantly enhance the search for new planets. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">The race in on for scientists to discover potentially habitable planets using data gathered by TESS. The winner will be the first one to engage the use of the Webb Telescope. Isaac decides to hire an assistant and is a bit miffed when only one person responds to his flyers—Clara (Troian Bellisario), the muralist he noticed earlier. She turns out to be a bit of a mystery. When he interviews her he discovers she has no scientific training, and in fact, she hasn’t taken any college classes at all. She’s spent the past several years vagabonding around the world. Clara’s been living on the streets with her stray dog, and since no one else applied for the position, he hires her. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">Clara turns out to be exactly what Isaac needs. She’s a hard worker, and brings a sense of passion and creativity to their work. While Isaac is the quintessential scientist, Clara is a freethinking, romantic soul. The scientific methodology for their search is explained in layperson’s terms, and it’s easy to understand. It adds credibility to the story and makes the film even more engaging. Isaac also relies on assistance from his colleague Dr. Charles Durant (Ennis Esmer) and his ex-wife Dr. Rebecca Jenkins (Kristen Hager). The pace of the film picks up as it heads to a conclusion that caught me totally off guard. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">I really enjoyed the seamless blending of the romantic and scientific sides of the story—neither one overwhelmed the narrative. I thought the cinematography was decent as well. You might be surprised when I tell you the soundtrack included a mix of early Bob Dylan and quiet electronics from composer Jonathan Kawchuk. But trust me, it really does work. It enhanced an already wonderful viewing experience. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">5 out of 5 stars</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">Note to parents: The film is Not Rated and I thought it would probably garner a PG-13 rating. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">Currently streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy and Hoopla. Also on Plex, Crackle, and to rent on Prime Video. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ui72E6N0B7M" width="320" youtube-src-id="ui72E6N0B7M"></iframe></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7465269387510517463.post-65549950817468697782023-10-14T10:42:00.005-07:002023-10-14T10:42:43.236-07:00"Burn Your Maps"<p> 2016 * PG-13 * 1h 42m If you're looking for a heartfelt, offbeat, powerful drama, be sure to check out this wonderful film. I don't know why it didn't receive more attention when it was released, but that's Hollywood for you. It features some outstanding performances, gorgeous settings, and a beautiful story. </p><p>Wes (Jacob Tremblay is an eccentric young boy. His parents, Alise (Vera Farmiga) and Connor (Marton Csokas) are having a difficult time moving on after the loss of a child. One day Wes decides he's actually a Mongolian goat herder. At first his parents humor him, but eventually they have to come to terms with the fact that he really believes it. Wes befriends Ismail (Sure Sharma), a twenty-something man who works at the local car wash. Ismail dreams of becoming a filmmaker, and begins documenting Wes's story. </p><p>After posting clips of Wes on social media, the young man becomes an international celebrity. Then, Wes is off to Mongolia with his mom to meet with his peeps. And of course, Ismail is along for the ride to document the journey. </p><p>This is one of those films that you can't help but fall in love with. It's an emotional, tear-jerker that'll have you puddling up.more than once. The actors all do a great job, especially Jacob Tremblay. I think we're going to see a lot more of this young lad. Bravo!</p><p>5 out of 5 stars</p><p>Streaming for free with your library card on Hoopla.com and on Tubi. Also on Prime Video, </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q35bysShewQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="q35bysShewQ"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Movie Buffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01800610208440594742noreply@blogger.com0