“Vice” is a biodrama and history of the life and career of Dick Cheney, Congressman from Wyoming, and more notably the Vice-President under President George W. Bush.

The film was written and directed by Adam McKay and stars Christian Bale in the title role with Amy Adams as his wife, Lynne Vincent Cheney. Also appearing in the film

is Steve Carell (as Donald Rumsfeld) and Sam Rockwell (as George W). This is the story of a partnership between an iron willed wife and an ambitious husband who, together, forged their way from average beginnings to the inner workings of their nation’s decision making process. Those interested more in our country’s recent history than pure film making will get more from this experience than the average viewer. That being said, one must acknowledge the “Meryl Streep” ability of Mr. Bale to transform himself, both physically and professionally,into the essence of the character he portrays. He succeeds so well that in what are obvious recreations of real events, the moviegoer could well believe that the real Mr. Cheney was actually in the scene. There is no question that the writer/director has a definite point of view but, in spite of that, he is able to portray his lead subject with a mixed sense of loyalty to his country and a fierce dedication to his wife and family, indeed the complex traits of a very complicated public servant. I give the film 3 and ½ stars for, despite its 2 hour and 25 minute running time, the audience is never bored or without interest with what it is appearing on the screen and, after all, isn’t that what filmmaking is all about.

Roma

“Roma” is a film written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron and is his attempt to pay homage and acknowledge his childhood in the Roma section of Mexico City as well as the housekeepers that cared for him and his siblings. Filmed in black and white this film has become the choice of so many critics and award entities so I find myself again at odds with the so called pros for this film, as good as it is, is not great, nor in my opinion is it worthy of the accolades being heaped upon it. This is the story of a family, a marriage and those who kept house for them…..and that is where it all really begins and ends.

So, like a fly on a wall, we watch the residents and servants interact in a really not too exciting series of mundane events as they go about their assigned chores and fulfill their designated roles. I give the film 2 and ½ stars as I continue to wonder what the excitement regarding it is all about..Perhaps the highest award should go to the distributor’s PR firm for being able to generate such unwarranted hype and activity..

The Mule

“”The Mule” is a film written by Nick Schenk inspired by Sam Dolnick’s piece in the New York Times Magazine entitled “The Sinola Cartel’s 90 Year Old Drug Mule”. The film stars Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, Michael Pena, Laurence Fishburne, Andy Garcia and Diane Wiest so, one would think with a stellar cast like that, the film just had to be good. It is not.

Mr. Eastwood plays the 90 year old subject  too well for he’s lost the core of his image and one feels more sadness than respect for this aging icon who looks more like the grandfather of the star we once knew than the presence we were hoping to experience. Perhaps it’s the penalty of being too dynamic and great in the who we once were than the person we are now.

The script and story lack depth and, although never bored, the viewer is mindful that nothing significant is going on as the picture, like the mule’s truck, just travels forward without meaning or destination. I give the film 2 and ½ stars proving that an aging star with support from many cameo players cannot necessarily guarantee a positive theatrical experience.

Mary, Queen of Scots

“Mary, Queen of Scots” stars Saoirse Ronan in the title role together with Margot Robbie as Elizabeth I in this epic biodrama of 16^th Century politics, religious prejudice and royal intrigue. Directed by Josie Rourke and based on the novel by John Guy who co-wrote the screenplay with Beau Willamon (the writer and producer of “House of Cards”), this is basically the story of two cousins forced by their male advisors and counsel to be at war with each other and the kingdoms claimed to by each. For history buffs, this is a film that will put a new perspective on the life and reign of Mary who, until now, was thought of as an immature monarch placed in a role for which she was ill prepared. Instead Messrs. Guy and Willamon show Mary to be a spirited, wise and dedicated ruler who was, according to all records, the rightful heir to the kingdom and thrones of both England and Scotland. Interesting to note that today’s British monarch, Elizabeth II, is a direct descendant (11 times removed) of Mary. I give this film 3 stars for its historical value and the quality performances of the ladies who portray the two queens.

Shoplifters

"Shoplifters" is a Japanese language film written and directed by Hirokazu Koreeda. This is a difficult film to watch for a number of reasons, the most prominent being that the script and the story it tells is confusing and almost impossible to follow. The last third of the film tries to explain who the characters really are and the motivations each has in relation to the other but this places too much of a burden on the audience who, for 2/3 of the film had to sit adrift and at sea in trying to find out exactly what is going on. Much like the critics of the artsy Ingmar Bergman movies, so many of the critics who loved this film saw more in it than I believe the writer/director ever intended. The editing room needed someone in it in addition to Mr. Koreeda in order to give objective cuts, segues and scene placement changes so that the story sought to be told would be more easily understood. In its present form, however, and bearing in mind the kindness of the season, I generously give it 2 stars with the responsibility for this low rating falling squarely on the shoulders (and probably the ego) of Mr. Koreeda.

Green Book

"Green Book" is the true story of Dr. Don Shirley, the great classical/jazz pianist and his famous 1960's tour of the deep south accompanied by his driver, Tony Lip Villelonga, as they travel together using the infamous Green Book which served as a guide for African American travelers as to where they could and could not find accommodations in the southern part of our nation. As the book so brutally states in its logo "avoid aggravation on your vacation".

The film stars Mahershala Ali as Dr. Shirley and Viggo Mortensen as Tony Lip Villelonga. Directed by Peter Farrelly who co-wrote the screenplay with Bruce Currie and Nick Villelonga, this is a warm and deeply moving story of the plight of a talented world class musician who, like most black entertainers in that era, could perform and entertain in the "white only" establishments but could neither sleep nor eat there. The film serves as a great reminder of how demeaning and wrong the culture was in all too many parts of our country and how so many of its citizens were robbed of the dignity and rights they were otherwise entitled to have and enjoy. Although Mr. Ali's performance was noteworthy, the true star of the film is Mr. Mortensen who, deviating from his normal "leading man" role, portrays the Bronx born and raised Tony Lip Villelonga with sensitivity and caring in spite of, and perhaps maybe because of, his Italian American heritage and upbringing.

I give this film 3 and 1/2 stars and suggest that it be seen by all who wish to understand where we were as a nation 56 years ago, where we are now and how far we still have to go.

At Eternity's Gate"

"At Eternity's Gate" is the beautifully told story of the life of Vincent Van Gogh brilliantly portrayed by Willem Dafoe. Supported in the film by Rupert Friend and Oscar Isaacs, the film was written by Jean-Claude Carriere, Louise Kugelberg and Julian Schnabel, the latter of the three who was also the director. This biographical drama of the life of this great artist puts Mr. Dafoe's portrayal of him onto the short list of Oscar nominees for best actor. Admittedly those not interested in Mr. Van Gogh or the art movement he helped create will not be as interested in seeing the film as those of us who are. The film takes us through the artist's life from his own perspective and presents facts based on common folklore as it explores his struggles with imagination and reality and, ultimately, untimely death. I give the film 3 stars for it presents to the viewer an interesting theatrical experience as well as a view of the artist not present in the two prior films made about him.

Boy Erased

"Boy Erased" is a film dealing with gay conversion therapy and stars Lucas Hedge, Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe. Based on the real life memoir of writer Garred Conley the film was written and directed by Joel Edgerton who also plays one of the "counselors" in the controversial facility. This is not simply a message film but rather a deep and emotional exploration into the workings of an Arkansas family and the life style choices its members are forced to make. Kudos to Ms. Kidman and Mr. Crowe for their fine performances but the film really belongs to Lucas Hedge who, although subjugated to supporting roles in "Manchester by the Sea", "Lady Bird" and "3  Billboads in Montana", brings an honest and moving portrayal of a troubled teen seeking asylum and peace in a world not of his making. I give the film 3 and 1/2  stars with a reminder that of our 50 states, 34 of them still have not banned this archaic and medieval attempt to change an individual's sexual preference.

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A Star is Born

"A Star is Born" stars Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott and Andrew Dice Clay in a film directed by Mr. Cooper and co-written by him, Eric Roth and Will Fetters. Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga give superb performances with special kudos to Ms. Gaga who was a pleasant surprise both as to her acting and vocal talent.

Unfortunately, for this viewer at least, I was, throughout the film, extremely conscious of the Janet Gaynor/Frederick March, James Mason/Judy Garland and Kris Kristofferson/Barbara Streisand versions of the film and because of that, they got in the way of my ability to just sit back and watch the scenes in the latest remake  unfold. Although set in the genre of contemporary rock music, the film differs little from its predecessors with the viewer knowing exactly how each predictable circumstance would play out and curious only as to how the newest version might modify the old. There should be a statute of limitations on how many times you can remake a film and this latest one is a good argument for it. I give the film 2 and 1/2 stars and suggest that it be seen by only two types of audiences, one looking to see Lady Gaga in a totally new dimension and the other for that rare individual who never saw any of other three films.

"Love, Gilda

“Love, Gilda” is a documentary directed by Amy Dapolito which gives the

audience a rare and introspective view of the life of the late Gilda Radner.

Utilizing audio tapes, taped interviews, letters, home movies and her own diary,the film tells Ms. Radner’s story via the voices of Amy Poehler, Melissa McCarthy, Lorraine Newman and other friends and acquaintances of the of the late comedienne. From an endearing and overweight child to a talented and fun-loving performer, we learn of her ups and down throughout a life that ended much too soon. I give the documentary 2 and ½ stars and suggest that the film be seen by those who care about and/or are interested in this interesting and courageous lady.

Blackkklansman

“Blackkklansman” is the true story of a black detective who infiltrates the local

chapter of the Klu Klu Klan. Based on the book written by Ron Stallworth,  directed by Spike Lee and co-written by Mr. Lee with  David Rabinowitz, Charles Wachtel and Kevin Wilmott, the film stars John David Washington and Adam Driver. Perhaps staying too true to Mr. Stallworth’s book,the film gives really no insight or depth to any of the characters as they portray the real people they represent. Mr. Lee does make his point, however, but seems to bring it home more with a hammer than a scalpel. I did enjoy the film mainly because of the unique premise that a black detective (Mr. Washington) could infiltrate this body of hate via the physical persona of his fellow detective (Mr. Driver). I give the film 2 and ½ stars because of the worthiness of its message and the incredible story it tells.

Crazy Rich Asians

“Crazy Rich Asians” is a delightful film directed by Jon M. Chu with a screenplay co-written by Adele Kim and Pete Chiarelli based on the novel by Kevin Kwan. This is the first all Asian film since ‘The Joy Luck Club” which was shown some 25 years ago. Hopefully, it will not be the last. This a universally appealing piece of film making where, by chance, the participants are of Asian descent but all of us, Asian and non –Asian alike, can identify with the problems, circumstances and situations that befall the main characters in the film. True, it has a formula-style boy/girl/family plot but, because of the fine acting, editing and directing, the audience is able to just sit back with ease and enjoy how the story unfolds. Also, for those who have never been to or seen Singapore, the film offers an opportunity to view this exotic place that, in some instances, makes Dubai look like a shanty town. I give the film 3 stars and offer it as a very pleasant way to spend 2 hours watching characters engaged in a fun-filled romantic tale. 

The Wife

“The Wife” stars Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce in a film directed by Bjorn Runge, based on the novel by Meg Wolitazer and a screenplay written by Jane Anderson. The film examines the life and history of a couple married for almost 40 years and how a prestigious literary award impacts upon and affects their lives and those in their family. Ms. Close is at her finest and gives the audience the gift of portraying feelings and emotions more from her deep and expressive eyes than paragraphs of spoken dialogue she could ever physically utter. I give the film 3 and 1/2 stars and recommend it to all who enjoy a well directed movie, a quality script and acting performances that do it all justice.

“Juliet, Naked” stars Ethan Hawke, Rose Byrne and Chris Dowd in this film directed by Jesse Perez and written by his sister, Evgenia, Tamara Jenkins and Jim Taylor. With 3 co-writers you would expect that the end product would be more than a simple film with a simple plot but, unfortunately, it is not. I was never too great a fan of Ms. Byrne, but she shows a side of her ability in the role she plays that makes her endearing and enjoyable to watch. Mr. Dowd and Mr. Hawke also add to the film but all of them cannot overcome the basic shallowness of the script and lack of the depth of the characters they portray. I give the film 2 stars notwithstanding the fine efforts of the 3 stars in it.

The Cakemaker

“The Cakemaker” is an Israeli film starring Sarah Adler and Tim Kalkhof. Written and directed by Ofir Raul Grazier the film’s locations are in Berlin and Jerusalem. This a story of love, religion and clashing cultures. Although the film is interesting, it is, in this viewer’s opinion, too slow. On the positive side, it details daily life in Israel and how important it is for those living there to adhere to certain orthodox rituals.  Unfortunately, the writer/director asks the audience to take certain leaps of faith and logic that I found hard to easily accept. I give the film 2 and ½ stars since its premise and the problems it poses are more universal in scope than limited simply to those living in Germany and/or Israel.

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

“Won’t You Be My Neighbor” is a film documentary chronicling the life and career of one of the most beloved television personalities who ever appeared on the screen, Fred Rogers (aka “Mr. Rogers”). Morgan Neville, the documentarian and director of this film has captured the essence and purity of this beautiful man whose sole aim in life was to enhance and better the lives of the small children he was able to come in contact with via the medium of television.  His almost 2000 tv episodes sought not only to entertain but to help those in his young audience to understand the evils of bigotry, the heartbreak of divorce, the challenges of illness and the sadness of death, all topics previously unknown and untouched on children’s television shows. Ordained as a Presbyterian minister Mr. Rogers never preached to his flock but, instead, chose to communicate with them and, by doing so, achieved their love, affection and respect. More than that, Fred Rogers was off the screen the same person he was on it. He lived his every day life believing and espousing that we are all special and that what all of us really want in life is to love, be loved and to be worthy of that affection. I give this film 4 stars and answer the question in the film’s title in this manner: “Yes, Mr. Rogers, I would have loved to be your neighbor and, even more so, your friend.”

Three Identical Strangers

“Three Identical Strangers” is a documentary based on the true story of triplets separated at birth who, by some miracle of coincidence or divine providence, are reunited at 19 years of age. Directed by Tim Wardle, this a moving film and depicts and describes what motivated and caused their separation as well as the lives the 3 led prior to their learning that they were so directly related. What would seem, at first, to be a difficult story to tell, the film holds the interest of the audience as events unfold to make this story something that seems only a writer of fiction could conjure up. Yet,  as is so often the case, the truth here is stranger and more interesting than any literary talent could create or ask an audience to believe. I give this documentary 3 and ½ stars and urge all who can not to miss the opportunity to see it.