Cairo Time

“Cairo Time” was written and directed by Ruba Hadda and stars Patricia Clarkson. To say that this is not a fast-paced film would be the understatement of the year since even the pyramids on the screen appear to be moving faster than the movie itself. Working from a very dull and dreary script, Ms. Clarkson is about the only reason to even think of going to see this movie for her performance, much like the acclaimed actions (and non-actions0 of Diane Lane in “Unfaithful” tell us more than the dialogue Ms. Hadda never got around to write. It is truly a gift to see an actress convey so many thoughts and ideas without uttering a sound. This Ms. Clarkson does admirably well but…and there’s always a “but”, it’s not enough to hold the interest of the viewer or to allow one to really “get into the story”. One waits until at least 45 of the film’s 90 minutes to realize it isn’t going anywhere but from where it started out and that isn’t very far. I give the film 2 and ½ stars but only because Ms. Clarkson’s presence in it is it‘s only redeeming quality.

The Switch

“The Switch” is a delightful movie. It stars Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Juliette Moore, a surprisingly comedic Jeff Goldblum and a wonderful child actor, Bryce Robinson (age 9). This is a light but sophisticated comedy brilliantly acted by Mr. Bateman and ably supported by Ms. Aniston, both of whose roles are enhanced by 9 year old Master Robinson. Left to another actor, Mr. Bateman’s role could have easily hurt the film. Instead his sincerity and credibility comes through loud and clear as he plays off his character’s ups and downs with both Ms. Aniston and Master Robinson. This is the second film I’ve seen this year where sperm donors and family issues are presented to the film audience (“The Kids Are All Right”) and they both prove that with good guidance at the helm, these films can tell the story in an entertaining and meaningful way. Written by Jeffrey Eugenides and Allan Loeb and co-directed by Messrs. Will Speck and Josh Gordon I take pleasure in recommending this film. You will feel good during and after the film and, really, isn’t that what it’s supposed to be about. I give this fillm 3 stars because I truly enjoyed the theatrical experience it afforded me and I feel pretty confident that others will feel the same way too.

Get Low

“Get Low” is a film based in part on the true story of a hermit in the early 30’s played by Robert Duvall who, together with Bill Murray, Sissy Spacek and Lucas Black, tries to give more meaning to this story than it really contains. Written by C. Gaby Mitchell, Chris Provenzo and Scott Seeke and directed by Aaron Schneider, the film is slow, dull and more a vehicle for the talents of Mr. Duvall than it is for the enjoyment of the viewing audience. Like a salmon going against the surging water, I am in the minority of those who saw and write about this film where the critics apparently got much more from it than I did. Somewhat convoluted and confusing in its presentation, the tale it tells is bland and contains many inconsistencies. One can understand why Mr. Duvall, who also serves as one of the executive producers, sought to act in and make this film since it gives him an opportunity to expose his significant talents as an actor and that, only that, represents the value to the movie. Although at times you get the feeling that the performance is more show than sincerity, Mr. Duvall does hold the film together but, unfortunately, the glue is not strong enough. I give this film 2 stars with a warning that it will probably be right up there with the slowest 100 minutes you will every experience.

Joan Rivers, A Piece of Work

“Joan Rivers --A Piece of Work” is a documentary covering a year in the life of this 75 year old actress/comedienne (she prefers “actress”). Directed by Ricki Stern and Anne Sundberg, this film takes us not only backstage but into the very essence of Ms. Rivers‘personal life. We watch the sacrifices, joys, tragedies and struggles that have befallen this valiant survivor in one of the toughest businesses around. Whether losing a life long manager relationship, bemoaning a 4:30PM gig in the Bronx, losing a husband to suicide, antagonizing her mentor (Johnny Carson) or simply becoming the butt (no pun intended) of every aging or plastic surgery joke, this lady lands on top no matter in what position she falls as she shares with the camera (and ultimately the audience) who she really is and how she really thinks. It is obvious that Ms. Rivers has allowed the filmmakers to enter her private world with no handle on the reins or right of any approval. This of course makes for a bare, open and, most of all, honest, film. One leaves the theater after having spent 84 minutes with Ms. Rivers with tremendous respect, admiration and affection for this aging icon as she struggles to retain and maintain a theatrical life. As she herself said “I’m never happier than when I’m performing on stage”…and for those who enjoy her performances, they’re never happier either. I give this film 3 stars with a strong recommendation that it be seen and enjoyed. No question that this is a terrific PR boost for her but not because of how she is selectively portrayed but, more importantly, because of the innate quality that is hers in every and any circumstance.

Cyrus

“Cyrus” stars John C. Reilly, Marisa Tomei, Jonah Hill and Catherine Keener. The film was written and directed by both Jay and Mark Duplass who, like most who venture into the “I can do it all” arena, fail the audience since the film never quite lets us know enough about the Cyrus character although we are constantly bombarded by his actions and conduct. The film ends rapidly tying loose ends together but it is almost an afterthought that this happens and one gets the feeling that audience previews demanded a different ending and the writers/directors dutifully obliged. I give this film 2 and ½ stars because of the fine acting of Ms. Tomei (who just doesn’t know how to perform badly) and to Mr. Reilly who makes the most of the part he is given. I would have been glad to recommend the film were it not for the rapid and not very realistic last ten minutes of the film where the viewer waits for but never gets that for which he so anxiously anticipated..