The Imitation Game"The Imitation Game" stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley and Mathew Goode in this film that relates the efforts of British intelligence during World War II to break the German secret code. Co-written by Andrew Hodges (based on his book "Alan Turing: The Enigma") and Graham Moore, the film was ably directed by Morten Tyldum and tells of the extraordinary efforts of one man, Alan Turing, to create what was basically the first known computer. The information the film imparts and the tremendous undertaking of Turing and his aides to help shorten the war and save millions of lives will hold the interest of the audience to its exciting and unexpected climax. I give the film 3 and ½ stars and recommend it to history buffs and anyone else who is interested in seeing how far the human mind can go to conquer mathematical obstacles and achieve the seemingly impossible,

"The Imitation Game" stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley and Mathew Goode in this film that relates the efforts of British intelligence during World War II to break the German secret code. Co-written by Andrew Hodges (based on his book "Alan Turing: The Enigma") and Graham Moore, the film was ably directed by Morten Tyldum and tells of the extraordinary efforts of one man, Alan Turing, to create what was basically the first known computer. The information the film imparts and the tremendous undertaking of Turing and his aides  to help shorten the war and save millions of lives will hold the interest of the audience to its exciting and unexpected climax. I give the film 3 and ½ stars and recommend it to history buffs and anyone else who is interested in seeing how far the human mind can go to conquer mathematical obstacles and achieve the seemingly impossible,

Boyhood

"Boyhood" is a film I delayed in seeing because of its 242 minute length and revolutionary but, to me, at the time, unappetizing concept of watching a boy grow over a 12 year period. Nevertheless, on a rainy day in the desert with nothing much else to do, I went to see the film. To my pleasant surprise, my flexibility in viewing choices turned out to be one of the best movie decisions I ever made. The film, written and directed by Richard Linklater, is a unique exercise in film making where, for over a 12 year filming period, the same actors continue their roles as mother (Patricia Arquette), father (Ethan Hawke), son, Mason (Ellar Coltrane) and daughter, Samantha (Lorelei Linklater) and we literally watch them all grow and age on screen right before our eyes as if some magic time lapse mechanism was employed. True, the idea of watching family members grow over the years is not especially new except that other projects used different actors to play the same people in different stages of their respective lives. Here, we see the aging of the same actors, not only of the children, but of the parents and other adults as well, as they meet and deal with the various problems that befall them.
An unexpected result of having the same actors throughout is that it gives the film a legitimacy and authenticity even though it is a work of fiction.
One marvels at the logistical problems that could have occurred had one or more of the four principal cast members passed away or suffered significant life changes during this 12 year filming span (not to mention coordinating the professional availability of all or any of them throughout this over a decade shoot). I give the film 3 and ½ stars and thank the powers that be for making it rain the day I went to see it. Whether or not you enjoy the film as much as I did, it is worth seeing if, for no other reason, in order to experience the unique and innovative technique it employs.

Foxcatcher

"Foxcatcher" stars Steve Carell, Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo in this true story of the relationship between Olympic wrestling champions and brothers, Dave and Mark Schultz and a troubled and eccentric  member of the one of the wealthiest families in America, John DuPont. The film was written by E. Max Frye and Dan Futterman and was directed by Bennett Miller ("Moneyball") with Mr. Carell playing the part of John DuPont. Although Mr. DuPont’s picture is not familiar to most of us, he obviously had a prominent nose which accounts for the significant and almost cartoon-like makeup which Mr. Carell wears throughout the film. Unfortunately, in the producers attempt to achieve reality, they brought about the opposite result as far as this viewer is concerned. No matter how much you want to lose yourself into the film and the character Mr. Carell attempts to portray, you (or I at least) are constantly reminded that it is Mr. Carell wearing lots of makeup. That being said, the film offers a study into the degrees of control those having the power to exert it will go in order to attain their goals. The film, though slow moving at times (2 hours and 14 minutes) manages to hold the viewer’s interest as these two brothers cope with the idiosyncrasies and desires of their wealthy "mentor". I give the film 3 stars but can’t help wondering if a lesser known actor other than Mr. Carell could have been more convincing in the part he played.

Theory of Everything

"Theory of Everything" is, as most people know, the story of Stephen Hawking and his adult life-long battle with a motor deficiency disease (ALS). It is also the story of self-sacrifice and dedication as told through the eyes of his wife of 25 years, Jane, who, together with Anthony McClaren, co authored the screenplay based on her book "My Life With Stephen". The film was directed by James Marsh and stars Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. One must approach this film as both a factual summary of the trials and efforts of a genius confined to the prison of his voiceless and motionless body and, also, as an entertainment vehicle. For the former the film serves its purpose well and is made even more believable by Mr. Redmayne’s remarkable likeness to Mr. Hawkng  and the performances given by both he and Ms. Jones.  As to the latter, the film is certainly not "entertaining" in the true sense of the word but represents one of those "should see" see films because of its biographical data and the efforts of its two stars. This is indeed a difficult film to rate for much depends on the needs and desires of the viewer and whether he or she considers watching Mr. Redmayne’s character struggle with a catastrophic disabiliity for over 2 hours worth the effort. My experience of the film may well have been affected by the fact that I saw a PBS documentary with the real life Hawkings a few days earlier. That being said, I give the film 2 and ½ stars because it basically is locked to the actual story of the subjects with little or no poetic license or interest creating insertions.. Remember, though, as with  "My Left Foot", also a fairly difficult film to watch, it did earn Danel Day Lewis an Oscar and I wouldn’t be surprised if the same fate awaited Mr. Redmayne.

Nightcrawler

"Nightcrawler" stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo and Bill Paxton in a film written and directed by Dan Gilroy. Although opening on or about Halloween eve, and with a suggestive title lending itself to that ritual, the film is actually the story of those vulture-like papparazzi who, instead of following celebs in innocent daily real life situations, seek to capture the tragedies and "breaking news" stories that besiege our evening news each night. In the mid 20th Century, these photo journalists would freelance and sell their wares to the highest newspaper bidder. Now, in the era of television and video and digital photography, the suppliers become video camera operators and the bidders are the news directors of local tv stations.
As so ably portrayed by Mr. Gyllenhaal, the film tells the story of one such video cameraman and the lengths and extremes he will go to "get the shot" or "capture the video". It also depicts his enablers in the newsrooms of Los Angeles who empower and enable these "nightcrawlers" to reap the economic benefits of their endeavors. The film is well paced and will hold your interest and involvement and makes its point in an artistic although not too subtle a manner. I give the film 3 stars, primarily because of Mr. Gyllenhaal’s fine work but, also, because of the ability of Mr. Gilroy to both write and direct without sacrificing one role for the other..

St. Vincent

"St. Vincent" stars Bill Murray, Jaeden Lieberher, Melissa McCarthy and Naomi Watts in this beautiful film written and directed by Theodore Melfi. Mr. Murray outperforms his previous best works and displays his skill as an actor that few will be able to surpass. The film also represents the cinematic debut of a young actor named Jaeden Lieberher who will capture the hearts and minds of the audience as he displays his remarkable talent. He’s just really good and a pleasure to watch and experience. Set in a middle class Brooklyn neighborhood, Mr. Melfi brings to the screen a "feel good" film that will surprise many who may have never quite connected with the in your face style of Ms. McCarthy. She needs to play more serious roles for she is really good when she does them and she is outstanding in this one in particular. I give this film 3 stars and recommend it to viewers of all ages for joyous and heart warming stories know no labels or boundaries.

Gone Title

"Gone Girl" stars Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Tyler Perry and Neal Patrick Harris. The film was directed by David Fincher and is based on the book by Gillian Flynn who also wrote the screenplay adaptation of her novel.  Despite its extraordinary length, i.e. almost 2 and ¾ hours, the film manages to hold the audience’s intetest. Unfortnately, and notwithstanding good acting by Mr. Affleck and Ms. Pike, there are glaring flaws in the scrip that are never explained or accounted for and, in most instances, simply don’t make sense. To elaborate further would give away the plot and that is someithing I prefer not to do. Suffice it to say that the film, after it ends, leaves open many unanswered questions and fails to resolve blatant inconsistencies. I give the movie 2 and ½ stars noting tha the film could have been more enjoyable to watch if there had been less things so difficult to reconcile and understand.

Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

"Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" stars Michael Keaton, Naomi Watts, Edward Norton, Zach Galifianakis and Emma Stone. One would expect that, with a cast like this, the film would have to be a winner. Unfortunately it is not and despite or because of the direction of Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu and the screenplay by Alexander Dinclarus, Armando Bo and Nicholas Giacobone, the viewer is subjected to great and talented actors being compelled to participate in a weak story filled with surrealistic sequences that add little and in many ways detract from the essence of the film. The acclaim that other critics have afforded this film seems to be based more on the uniqueness and unorthodox techniques than the quality of the film itself. Different doesn’t always mean better and in this instance the interjections by the writers and director serve only to distract rather than supplement the characters and the roles they play. That being said, the performances of Messrs. Keaton and Norton are worth seeing but one wishes they were in a different vehicle. I give the film 2 and ½ stars because fine acting deserves proper recognition but it can never make a mediocre film really good.

Whiplash

"Whiplash" stars J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller in this story of a would be jazz drummer and his over zealous teacher/conductor in an elite and upscale music conservatory. Written and directed by Damien Chazille, this is a film that will appeal to lovers of jazz as it represents some of the best musical renditions ever seen on the movie screen. It is also a film that raises the question as to how far a teacher should go to "bring out the best" in his or her student. Messrs. Simmons and Teller are superb in the roles they play as they participate in some of the most intense student/teacher scenes one will ever see. Adding to their credibilty, we find out that in real life Mr. Teller studied drums from age 15 and Mr. Simmons holds degrees in voice, conducting and music from the University of Montana. As a result it’s easy to understand the believability of their respective performances. Having myself played in studio bands under the stewardship of a number of quality professors, the film had a special meaning for me. But, alas, this is what may make this really good film a commercial mishap since it is not for everyone and, by its very subject matter, may exclude a significant part of the viewing public. I give the film 3 and 1/2 stars because, seen out of context and apart from other films, it stands out as a true work of art. The caveat here, though, is that if intense musicology, training and signficant jazz performances are not the viewer’s "thing", then this film will not be appreciated by him or her to the same extent as it was by me.

The Skeleton Twins

"The Skeleton Twins" was directed by Craig Johnson who co-wrote the screenplay with Mark Heyman. It stars Kristen Wilg, Bill Hader, Luke Wilson and Ty Burrell in this surprisingly serious and well-written film notable because of the extraordinary performances of Mr. Hader and Ms. Wilg. It is said that a comic talent will easily adapt to a dramatic role whereas a dramatic actor will find it extremely difficult to do comedy. Mr. Hader and Ms. Wilg, comic partners from Saturday Night Live, prove the point. This is a film that tells the story of two siblings and the effect their childhood upbringing has on their adulthood. It is not an easy film to watch for it paints a picture of 2 troubled human beings and how each, in his and her own way, attempts to cope with the demons that continue to haunt them from their unhappy past to the present. I give the film 3 stars with special kudos to the acting talents of the two main participants.

The Drop

"The Drop" stars the late James Gandolfini, Naomi Rapace and British actor Tom Hardy in this film written by Dennis LeHane (based on his short story "Animal Rescue") and directed by Michael R. Roskam. At first glance, and certainly from the trailers, this appears to be a stereotyped gangster film toned down from New Jersey to Brooklyn with Mr.Gandolfini suitably cast as the main character. Unfortunately, actually quite fortunately for the viewer, this is not the case. The main character is, in fact, played by Tom Hardy (with a Brooklyn accent so genuine it would make my neighbors in Bensonhurst proud). Mr. Hardy is indeed a unique and exeptionally gifted performer.. Like the movie trailers, what you see initially is not what you get for Mr. Hardy’s character, Bob, is deep and caring and, although Bob himself may not realize it, a kind of knight in shining armor-type who lives in a black/white world of right and wrong.  He gives an extraordinary performance that, for no other reason, should compel the would-be viewer to go to see the movie.
Of course one must acknowledge the "elephant in the room" as the late Mr. Gandolfini graces the screen in his last film appearance and reminds us once again of that which the entertainment community lost as a result of his untimely passing. That being said, Mr. Hardy, in the vernacular of his Brooklyn film brethren, steals the film and each scene he is in. I feel confident that if Mr. Gandolfini were with us today, he, the true professional that he was, would be the first to appreciate and acknowledge that performance as much as any of us. I give the film 3 stars noting that the one star shining above all the rest belongs to Tom Hardy.

Life of Crime

"Life of Crime" stars Jennifer Aniston and an ensemble cast consisting of Isla Fisher, Tim Robbins, John Hawkes, Yasiim Bey (formerly Mos Def) and Will Forte in this film written and directed by Daniel Schechter based on the book "The Switch" by the late Elmore Leonard. This a crime thriller, sort of a poor man's Fargo, that really doesn’t take itself too seriously although it could because the action is there but somehow, in the 1978 environment in which it all takes place, the film remains uncomplicated and easy to watch. It is light yet serious and made all the better due to the fine performances of  Ms. Aniston and her fellow thespians. I give the film 2 and ½ stars and suggest that it is a nice way to spend 100 minutes in an air conditioned venue.to view a movie that may not be great but it certainly is good.

The Trip to Italy "The Trip To Italy" is not your average film but, instead, a sequel to the earlier film of the road trip made by Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon to the northern part of Great Britain which, due to its success, formed the basis and reason for their "Trip to Italy". Directed by Michael Winterbottom, Coogan and Brydon drive their way in their Mini-Cooper convertible along the Italian coast sampling persons and cuisine of the most delightful nature. Intermixed with the tour they are taking, references are made to the two tourists’ personal lives and the not so fictional versions of them. Coogan and Brydon are wonderful as they banter, ad-lib and joke with each other about their respective traits, family problems and personalities and, through it all, exemplifying a caring and bonding that is rarely found among two friends who have no negative agenda. You watch the film liking its heroes and wishing you could be the third member of their group. Unorthodox and unlike most films the viewer will experience, I give the movie 3 stars for, above all, it is fun to watch, extremely entertaining and allows the audience to experience, not only the charm of really charming men eating extraordinary gourmet dishes but, in addition, the breathtaking beauty of the landscape and country that is Italy.

"The Trip To Italy" is not your average film but, instead, a sequel to the earlier film of the road trip made by Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon to the northern part of Great Britain which, due to its success, formed the basis and reason for their "Trip to Italy". Directed by Michael Winterbottom, Coogan and Brydon drive their way in their Mini-Cooper convertible along the Italian coast sampling persons and cuisine of the most delightful nature. Intermixed with the tour they are taking, references are made to the two tourists’ personal lives and the not so fictional versions of them. Coogan and Brydon are wonderful as they banter, ad-lib and joke with each other about their respective traits, family problems and personalities and, through it all, exemplifying a caring and bonding that is rarely found among two friends who have no negative agenda. You watch the film liking its heroes and wishing you could be the third member of their group. Unorthodox and unlike most films the viewer will experience, I give the movie 3 stars for, above all, it is fun to watch, extremely entertaining and allows the audience to experience, not only the charm of really charming men eating extraordinary gourmet dishes but, in addition, the breathtaking beauty of the landscape and country that is Italy.

Love is Strange

"Love is Strange" stars John Lithgow, Alfred Molina and Marisa Tomei in this story of a marriage of two men who have lived together for 39 years and, under the newly enacted New York law, are able to formally solidify their relationship in a more traditional manner. The problems the two encounter could befall any married couple so this is really not a gay movie but the story of a married couple who happen by chance to be gay. It is also the story of true love and the caring and affection that only beautful relationships can bring about.  Unfortunately, this lovely and sensitive story, told in a better way, would have made a better film. One can only blame the writers, Ira Sachs (who is also the director) and Mauricio Zacharias and/or the editor for preventing this movie from realizing its potential. The continuity and ease of understanding are significantly absent from the film so that the viewer must assume and imagine that which could easily have been shown in an added scene or two. This is even more disturbing when you have such fine performances given by Messrs. Molina and Lithgow and Ms. Tomei all of whom are exemplary in the roles they play. I give the film 2 and ½ stars simply because too many questions are posed for the viewer to try to answer and too many inconsistencies exist for the viewer to follow. Had these writing/editing problems been solved, the film would indeed be worthy of a much higher rating.

The One Hundred-Foot Journey

The One Hundred-Foot Journey" stars Helen Mirren, Om Puri and Manish Dayal. Written by Steven Knight, based on the novel by Richard C. Marais and directed by Lasse Hallstrom ("Chocolat", "The Cider House Rules") this is a charming and beautifully told story of  ostensibly two cultures in rivalry through their respective restaurants and cuisine and yet it is much much more. The elegant and talented Ms. Mirren dominates the film as do the two Indian born actors who join her in this "feel good" film that is neither trite nor annoyingly predictable although no one is disappointed by its conclusion. Beautifully photographed in a French provincial town, the viewer is immediately engrossed in the plot and intricacies that befall the characters. This film will cater to those who hunger for a really enjoyable film and whose appetite demands a  tale of competition, respect and mutual understanding. Good taste demands that this film receive 3 and ½ stars with the old adage "See it, you’ll like it".

Calvary

"Calvary" stars Brendan Gleeson and Chris O’Dowd in this strange film both written and directed by John Michael McDonagh, At the outset let me say that I am a huge Brendan Gleeson fan and appreciate and respect almost everything in which I’ve ever seen him perform. He did not disappoint me in this film but, like watching a race car unable to go more than 15 mph, Mr. Gleeson’s character is locked into a script that is lacking in both credibility and common sense. Also, either cut from the original film or the result of just poor writing , or both, there are many unexplained scene and location changes that befuddle the viewer as well as pose unanswered questions regarding significant events that take place in the movie. Throughout the film the viewer is put into a dry, slow and melancholy mood as one searches for the good film that is somewhere within the one that was actually released. I give the film 2 and ½ stars with both kudos and regrets to Mr. Gleeson for becoming enmeshed in this project.

A Most Wanted Man

"A Most Wanted Man" stars Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rachel McAdams, Robin Wright and Willem Dafoe in this intense spy thriller based on the novel by John LeCarre. The screenplay was written by Andrew Bovell, directed by Anton Corbijn and remains true to Mr. LeCarre’s literary work. Knowing that this was Mr. Hoffman’s last film makes the viewing bitter sweet for one watches this great actor perform as only he can and yet with the knowledge that we will never see him in anything new again.
The length of the film, over 2 hours, should not be a deterrent for every scene is valuable and necessary as good editing helps the viewer watch and understand this otherwise complicated plot. The film geta and deserves 3 stars. 

Magic in the Moonlight

"Magic in the Moonlight" stars Colin Firth and Emma Stone in this film written and directed by Woody Allen. There are those who will avoid a film by the writer-director because of circumstances which occurred in his private life and there are others who will go to any film bearing his credits as dutiful and loyal fans regardless of his personal choices or the quality of the work.. This film transcends the nay sayers and the hoorayers and can be judged on its own merits for by so doing, the viewer will experience a beautifully written and well directed work of theatrical art. Mr. Firth is fine in the role of the arch magician out to prove or disprove the abilities of Ms. Stone’s character as alleged seer and psychic. The movie sails along at an easy pace as it relates the story in a well edited and interesting manner. Add to this a soundtrack of great songs of the early 20th Century and you end up with a positive audio and visual theatrical experience. Kudos to Mr. Allen who has once more brought his "magic" into the theater. I give the film a well deserved 3 and ½ stars. Bottom line: this is a good film to see and one that I think most people will enjoy..

Begin Again

"Begin Again: stars Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Adam Levine, Katherine Keener and Hailey Steinfeld in this film written and directed by John Carney ("Once").
Ms. Knightley comes alive in this film after our having viewed her in so many mid 19th Century films as she helps illuminate the streets of Manhattan (where the film takes place) with her stellar performance. . Although her role requires singing, this is obviously not her professional forte. Nevertheless she handles the role nicely. Alas, that’s where the accolades for the film end for the performances of Mark Ruffalo (who always seems to play the same part) and the other performers are hampered by an average script and music that two generations after mine probably love but this writer could do without. Writing and directing the same film is an art and a task not easily carried off. Mr. Carney is no exception here and a somewhat confusing screenplay coupled with less than average musucal performances earn this film 2 and ½ stars with the half star attributed solely to Ms. Knightley.

Chef

“Chef” is the brainchild and creation of the very talented Jon Favreau who produced, directed, wrote and stars in this film about a chef, his relationship with his son, his ex-wife and the food he loves to cook. In addition to Mr. Favreau, the film also stars Sofia Vergara, Scarlett Johansson, Bobby Cannavale, Dustin Hoffman, John Leguizamo, Robert Downey Jr., and a soundtrack that will make the viewer truly enjoy the intensity of this salsa musical journey. Almost 2 hours in length the film speeds along on its merry way through the spirited and improvisational style of its director who quickly shows us that simple uncomplicated themes well written and performed can make for more than adequate entertainment. This is a film where you simply sit back in your chair, relax and watch this feel good story turn out as predicted but with humor, pathos and culinary delights filling the screen in between. I give the film 3 stars and urge that it be seen by vegans and meat lovers alike for food, comedy and music make this film truly an enjoyable experience.

The Lunchbox

“The Lunchbox” is an Indian film starring Irrfran Khan and Mimrat Kaur. Directed by Ritash Batra. The film got rave reviews from the major papers and periodicals as well as some word of mouth recommendations from people we know. The question I must ask is “why?” This is one of those films where a great idea is executed poorly, mostly because of the poor writing and the illogical circumstances that take place and the difficulty in trying to follow exactly what the characters are and will be doing. In spite of a few dozes during the film, I was sorry to see the credits come on so rapidly because it left me in the cloud of  not knowing how the characters resolve or don’t resolve their issues. I give the film 2 stars and hope that those who do see it will get more out of it than I did.

Fading Gigolo

“Fading Gigolo” was written and directed by John Torturro who also stars in the film with Woody Allen, Sharon Stone, Sofia Vergara and Vanessa Paradis. As is always the case with one who takes on the triple role of actor, writer and director, the objectivity needed to make certain scenes work or not work is lost or seriously diminished. Mr. Torturro, the writer, has written a thin improbable script and, as an actor, relies more on his facial expressions than the dialogue the viewer is begging to hear. Mr. Allen, easily cast as the  elder mentor and friend to Mr. Torturro’s character tries very hard to be the Allen of 20 years earlier but fails in this attempt. He is, after all, an older version of the character we loved to watch and now, sadly, we are conscious of this old man trying to  entertain us. The real value to this film is the performance of Ms. Paradis, a well known French singer, who steals and dominates every scene she is in. This is a movie about Williamsburg, a section of Brooklyn where Hasidic Jews have their own community and how this culture ultimately impacts upon the lives of the characters played by Mr. Allen and Mr. Torturro. As one who lived and worked in that community, I enjoyed the scenes of the lifestyles and people who resided there.  Unfortunately, nostalgia and interesting photography alone are not enough to make a really good movie. I give the film 2 ½ stars.

Bethlehem

“Bethlehem” is a German/Belgium/Israeli film which tells the story of an Israeli agent and his Palestinian “asset” and the intense, complicated and involved relationship the two experience. Well directed by Yuval Adler who also co-wrote the film with Ali Wakad, the film stars Tsahi Halevi as the Israeli agent and Shadi Mar’l as his teenage informant.

More than just an interesting view of this relationship, the film attempts to help the viewer understand the clashing cultures among those in the Israeli government, Hamas and the Palestine Authority as the 3 jockey for control and jurisdiction in this troubled part of the world. I give the film 3 stars and suggest that it be seen by all who are seeking a better understanding of the almost impossible situation in the middle East and why, in the land of miracles, it will take one to bring peace to that part of the world.

Le Week End

“Le Week End” is a charming, warm and deeper than it purports to be film written by Hanef Kureishi with directorial credits going to Roger Michell. The film stars Jim Broadbent, Lindsay Duncan and, in the latter half, Jeff Goldblum. Although ostensibly the story of a British married couple of 30 years celebrating their anniversary in Paris, it is much more than that. Its British umbrella goes beyond that country’s culture to cause any long married couple of any nationality to easily identify with the problems they face as they try to recapture or maybe even create the relationship they each want with the other. Ms. Duncan and Mr. Broadbent dominate the screen as they share their innermost feelings and disappointments in a movie that seems to capture the essence of the “Best Marigold Hotel” film and a tamer and warmer “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf”.Mr. Kureisi’s dialogue is meaningful and profound as the two principal characters encounter the ups and downs of marital life and the burdens and benefits it offers. I give the film 3 stars and suggest that the City of Paris be given an honorable mention in the credits for it certainly plays a meaningful role in the lives of this engaging and complicated couple.

Twelve Years a Slave

This review of “Twelve Years a Slave” is late in coming since I, like many others, was reluctant to see it because of its raw and powerful displays of brutality. After all, the film experience should be pleasurable and something to enjoy. Nevertheless, I took the opportunity to view the film on a DVD a friend generously loaned to us. As I watched the film my concerns were indeed realized for some of the scenes were certainly uncomfortable to watch. However It was worth the 10 or 15 total minutes of discomfort to be able to be artistically exhilarated as we saw inhumanity and dignity oppose each other in what was the then mentality and norm of the slave genre and the society that embraced it. The acting of Chiwitel Ejifor, the writing of John Ridley and the direction of Steve McQueen make this a rewarding theatrical experience which the viewer will find difficult to forget or even equal. The film tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a cultured and well respected African American northerner, who is kidnapped and then sold into slavery by his abductors and ends up spending 12 years on one or more southern plantations. It’s easy for an audience member, black or white, to identify with the lead character and that is what makes the film work so well.  Massive suffering among thousands is a broad and almost meaningless phrase when compared to describing the plight of one individual. It is something the viewer can more readily identify with and understand. I give this film 3 and ½ stars. To those who may still be reluctant to see it, think of it as historical medicine. It will enrich your minds and help us understand even more the oppression and bigotry that once infected our nation.

The Wind Rises

“”The Wind Rises” is an animated feature written and directed by the acclaimed Japanese illustrator, Hayao Miyazaki. This is Mr. Miyazaki’s last animated film and, indeed, the filmgoing community is the lesser for it. The graphics contained in this film are breathtaking and as beautiful to view as one can imagine. The film tells the life story of one of the world’s greatest aircraft engineers, Jiro Hurikushi, as it follows his career as a near sighted boy who dreams of flying but, because of his poor eyesight, is forced to vicariously enjoy his passion by designing airplanes instead, The film chronicles Mr. Hurikushi’s life through Japan’s great earthquake in the early 20th Century, the massive tuberculosis epidemic and its great depression and is as enlightening as it is entertaining. The film is offered on two different screens, one with the original dialogue (with English subtitles) and the other with the English dubbed in. See the technically perfect dubbed in version with actor Joseph Gordon-Lewitt as Jiro and Emily Blunt as Naoko, the love of his life. The movie comes as near to perfect as possible but for one problem. It is too long and looking at my watch during the approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes was a distraction. As has so often been said, when the writer also assumes the role of director, it is like a parent trying to edit out the performances of his children….a difficult task that requires more objectivity than dedication and proves that too much of a good thing necessarily isn’t.  With all of that being said, the film is nevertheless a lovely theatrical viewing experience and one that will be as enjoyable for its adult audience to see as it will be for the children who accompany them. I give the film 3 and ½ stars as this cinematic endeavor, like the wind in the title, will take the viewer to new and exciting heights. It is also a fitting farewell to Mr. Miyazaki and his own career as one of the world’s greatest animators.

Tim's Vermeer

“Tim’s Vermeer” is a documentary involving Tim Jenison, the noted inventor and visual arts entrepreneur, and his inquiry into the style and methods used by  Johannes Vermeer who Mr. Jenison considers to be the finest artist of the 17^th Century or, for that matter, any Century.

Jenision ‘s aim or goal is to answer the question: “How did Vermeer do it” and were optical assists used in the creaton of his art. With input from artists such as actor Martin Mull and artist David Hockney, under the able narration of Penn Jillette and direction of Teller, Mr. Jenison shares with the audience his scientific means of trying to discover and prove what optical devices were used by artist Vermeer under the same circumstances and limitations that faced Mr. Vermeer in the 1600’s. This is an absorbing film with Jenison sharing each effort, success and setback as he, although not an artist himself, seeks to create a Vermeer painting using the techniques he hypothesizes the artist used some 400 years ago.

This film is not only for art buffs, but for those of us ready to witness an inventor who, with tenacity and spirit, works tirelessly to achieve the desired result. I give this film 3 and ½ stars and highly recommend that it be seen by as many viewers as possible.

Gloria

“Gloria” stars Paulina Garcia in the title role in this story of a single woman “of a certain age” who frequents social dancing clubs in order to find herself and the happy life she is seeking. Co-written by Gonzalo Maza and Sebasti (who also directed the film) the movie unfortunately did not live up to the expectations so many of the critics led me to believe it would achieve. The film’s 2 hours in length coupled with a plot that never reaches its end made this movie experience difficult to watch and to stay awake during its viewing.. There is a good movie in there somewhere but Director Sebasti and his co-writer never find it and the viewer is faced with the uncomfortable experience of waiting for something more but finding out after the ticket purchase that it never comes. The acting of Ms. Garcia is wonderful but not strong enough to carry this film and its thin story. I give the film 2 and ½ stars and wonder what it takes for the other critics to be able to criticize and rank a foreign film poorly. I for one had no trouble doing it.

August: Osage County

August: Osage County is the film adaptation of the award winning play written byTracy Letts who also wrote the screenplay. Directed by John Wells and starring the extraordinary Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Julianne Nicholson, Juliette Lewis, Abigail Breslin, Benedict Cumberbatch, Dermot Mulroney, Ewan McGregor and Chris Cooper, this is the story of an extremely dysfunctional family and the problems each of its members bring to the table (in this case the dinner table). Having seen the play on Broadway I can attest to the fact that the 3 hour play with 2 intermissions was so well acted and directed that it seemed to be only 2 hours in length. Conversely, the movie is only 2 hours in length but seems like it extends beyond 3. No one can quarrel with the words of the author and the tremendous talent on the screen but it just doesn’t capture the intensity and tightness of the stage rendition. One can argue that Ms. Streep’s character was too dramatic and “over the top” but the role played both by Ms. Streep in the film and by Estelle Parsons on the stage required that kind of “overacting”. The character they portray is basically a drama queen and both actresses captured her perfectly. A great ensemble cast  that could have benefited more by better editing, I give the film 3 stars because the essence of any good performance, be it on stage or in a movie house, is great writing. For that reason alone, the film is worth listening to and watching.

The Wolf of Wall Street

“The Wolf of Wall Street” was directed by Martin Scorcese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill in the true story of Jordan Belfort, the self-made millionaire who operated a stock brokerage telemarketing operation that ultimately led to his ruin and the ruin of his company and his duped investors. I’m no fan of Mr. DiCaprio who, no matter what adult role he plays, always reminds me of a little boy wearing his father’s felt hat. However, in this film, Mr. DiCaprio overcomes my previewing prejudices and is quite believable in his role as Mr. Belfort but, unfortunately, that’s where the kudos end. The film is 3 hours long but seems more like 6. Thelma Schoonmaker is being touted by the producers for “Best Film Editing” but her work product, at least to this viewer, is virtually unnoticed. The film is filled with gratuitous sex scenes that are more crude than craft and actually get in the way of the story and plot. Orgies may have their place in depicting a scene in a Roman harem but they simply detract from the film and like most of the unneeded scenes, add to the uncomfortable length of the picture. I give the film 2 stars and recommend that, if you do go to see it, bring lunch and/or dinner, although the raunchy and tasteless scenes will probably destroy any appetite you might otherwise have had.