"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