"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