20th Century Women

“20^th Century Women” was written and directed by Mike Mills, It boasts a fine ensemble cast led by Annette Benning with Billy Crudup, Greta Gerwig, Elle Fanning and Lucas Jede Zumann who each give gifted and meaningful performances. Unfortunately, the star value and the once good idea behind the screenplay fail to save this film from being slow and discombobulated as it strives to reach its unattainable goal. This, once again, is the classic case of the writer and director being one in the same  person with no 3^rd party filter to help cut, edit and alter the film into something cohesive and easy to watch. Mr. Mills, like most who assume these dual roles, becomes married to his own material, is afraid to alter it and never really allows the audience  to properly see, forgive the pun, the “big picture”.  I give the film 2 stars because yawning 3 times during the film and checking my watch 4 is testament enough to why it deserves such a low rating.

Elle

“Elle” is a French film based on the novel “Oh…” written by Philippe Dijan (“Betty Blue”) with a screenplay by David Birke. Directed by Paul Verhoeven the movie stars Isabelle Huppert, Charles Berling and Laurent Lafitte in this tale of a woman who is raped and how she copes with the incident. The rape scenes are brutal in their violence and makes the viewing of the film an uneasy experience. What is more uneasy is the mind of the viewer as he or she recalls and tries to understand the theatrical presentation they have just seen for the story is complicated and made even more so by the subtitles. I am sure a French viewer would find the film easier to understand than his or her English-speaking counterpart. All that being said, this film is filled with suspense and mystery and, more than anything else, is a tribute and testament to the talents of Ms. Huppert. Her unbelievable ability to communicate and exude various degrees of emotions and sex appeal without ever uttering a word speaks volumes to her amazing acting ability.  I give the film 3 stars with a warning for the squeamish viewer to beware.

Julieta

“Julieta” is a beautifully directed film by the world acclaimed Pedro Almodovar who with Alice Munro co-wrote the film as well. This is a story of guilt, relationships and the many ways in which those who suffer loss react to it. Ably acted by Adriana Ugarte, Emma Suarez and Danie Grao, the audience is transported into the world its main character, Julieta, as she attempts to  cope with the realities of life and death. I give the film 3 stars for although it may not equal the other great films of Mr. Almodovar, it reaches an extremely high level of accomplishment and gives the audience over 2 hours of extraordinary entertainment. I give the film 3 and ½ stars and recommend that it be seen while it is still in general distribution.

Manchester by the Sea

“Manchester by the Sea” was written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan and stars Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler and newcomer Lucas Hedges. This is a story of sadness and a series of ill-fated events that befall Mr.Affleck’s character, Lee Chandler, who is asked to become the guardian of his young nephew upon the sudden death of Lee’s brother Joe. ‘The performances in this film are noteworthy because they are understated yet immensely powerful as each actor communicates great degrees of emotion without overburdening the scenes with wordy laments. Kudos to the young Mr. Hedges who plays Lee’s nephew as he and his uncle Lee attempt to develop a relationship despite different lifestyles and aspirations. I give the film 3 and ½ stars with a special spotlight on Mr. Affleck whose Oscar nomination seems virtually guaranteed.

Jackie

“Jackie” stars Natalie Portman in this bio drama capturing the days and weeks following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and how his widow coped with this tragic event. Directed by Pablo Larrain (the Chilean born producer who also directed the acclaimed ‘Neruda”) and ably supported by Billy Crudup, John Hurt and Peter Sarsgaard, this is the story of a widow’s quest for dignity amidst heartbreak and great personal loss. Written by Noah Oppenheim, the film has credibility and insight as it reveals the frailties, weaknesses and strengths of those in public life and especially those who are dealing with the most intimate and private of happenings.  I give this film 3 and ½ tars with a special nod to Ms. Portman who, like the lady she portrays, communicates a regal elegance throughout the most trying of times her character is forced to experience and endure.

La La Land

“La La Land” is a charming drama, romantic comedy and musicall tied together nicely by writer/director Damien Chazelle. Ably performed by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, the film tells the story of an aspiring actress and a dedicated jazz musician as they search to find and realize each of their respective dreams. Ms. Stone and Mr.Gosling have never been seen or known as singers or dancers so the viewer is at first suspect and in doubt that either of these two can properly fulfill the roles the parts demand. To the surprise and satisfaction of all involved, they are a delight to watch and listen to as they seque from drama to musical numbers all in a subtle and lovely transition. This also lends to the credibility of the film and its story under the able direction of Mr. Chazelle. The film also provides the viewer with a delightful series of songs and jazz sessions which add to the positive experience. I give this film 3 and ½ stars for it is not only a sweet, simple and charming story of hope and ambition in the City of Los Angeles but a reminder that good films can still be made using the once forgotten formulae of mid-20^th‘century moviemaking.

/edge of Seventeen

“Edge of Seventeen” stars Hailee Steinfeld, Blake Jenner, Haley Lu Richardson, Kyra Sedgwick and Woody Harrelson in this coming of age film about a teenage girl and the problems she and so many of her generation face in being accepted and in coping with the reality of social competition. The film was written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig and represents her first directorial endeavor. I might also mention that one of the producers of the film, Julie Ansell, is the daughter of one of our readers,  Although Ms. Steinfeld’s performance, as with the other actors, is genuine and quite skilled, the film itself is more like a television movie than a full length theatrical motion picture, certainly as to the depth of the writing and the production values it seeks to achieve. Nevertheless, the film is an honest portrayal of one girl’s obstacles and how she tries to cope with them and for that reason, together with fine performances by the cast, I give the film 3 stars.

Arrival

“Arrival” stars Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker in this sci-fi drama written by  Eric Heisserer based on a novel by Ted Chiang (“The Story of Your Life”). The film was directed by Denis Villanueve who, together with the writer and the editor, if there was one, must take full responsibility for the 2 hours I wasted watching their product. The movie is slow, confusing and complicated and the scenes float back in time and place without ever clearly indicating what was intended by its creative team. Ms. Adams can do no wrong for she is a talented actor but somehow she got placed in this amateurish attempt at a modern day “ET”. The film is not only a disservice to Ms. Adams’ talent but to the audience that must suffer through the picture  as well. I must have looked at my watch at least 5X during the course of the film and, in so doing,  found the hands on my timepiece more interesting that that which was being projected on to the screen. What amazes me most is that so many professional critics found this movie to be worthy of their highest rating, again proving that being paid for an opinion doesn’t mean it has value. I give this film a one star rating and if I hadn’t been in the company of my wife and friends, I would have walked out of the theater mid way through it. The only recommendation I can make about this film is to respectfully suggest to Ms. Adams that she  hire a new talent agent..

Loving

“Loving” is a film based on the real life story of Richard and Mildred Loving who were arrested, chastised and banned from their home town by the legal authorities in the State of Virginia for violating its laws against inter-racial marriage. Ably acted by Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga who portray the courageous couple as they and their supporters helped bring about the 1967 landmark Supreme Court decision in the case of Loving v. Virginia (which declared that marriage among any couple, regardless of race, was a right that the states could not deny). This decision laid the groundwork for the ultimate ruling by the high court acknowledging the rights of person of the same sex to also have the right to marry and so the film, and the story, goes far beyond 1967 to our present day human rights victories.  Defying the old adage that a writer/director cannot do both as effectively as if there were 2 separate individuals In those roles, Jeff Nichols does a noteworthy job in both capacities and brings forth from the actors subtle, low key performances that capture the strength and humility that are typical of so many of history’s unsung heroes. How ironic, too, that the title of the film and the surname of the real people in this story is a word that best describes their attitude towards each other and the 3 children they raised.

I give the film 3 and ½ stars for its honesty and dedication to the facts. It not only serves as a reminder to those of us who lived through this sad and regrettable period in our past but, equally as important, as an education for those who did not.

Moonlight

“Moonlight” is a film written and directed by Barry Jenkins based on a play written by Tarell McCraney. It tells the story of an African American boy highlighting three distinct chapters in his life as he navigates his way on the road from pre-teen to manhood experiencing all of life’s obstacles and difficulties one might expect there to be growing up in a lower class South Florida neighborhood. The film stars Alex R. Hibbert, Andre Holland ("Selma" "The Knick) and Ashton Sanders and a cast of supporting actors that do their best to try to make the film equal to the rave reviews it has received. Unfortunately, for this reviewer at least, the film, as good as it is, is not the great American film entry of 2016 as so many more noted critics have labelled it. I found that the film was too long and draggy and the scenes and chapters did not flow or segue from one to the other in an easy manner. Casting also became an issue but one would have to actually see the film to understand this comment.  Make no mistake, this is a powerful and important film showing the plight that so many lower class youths experience and how their intra-cultural encounters so often shape their low expectancy lives. Mr. Jenkins, as writer and director, has I fear bitten off a bit more than he can chew. However, with all that being said, he has given us an interesting and thought provoking product. I give the film 3 stars although I must admit that I had difficulty believing that the film I saw on the screen was the same one about which the critics unamimously praised. 

Denial

“Denial” is the true story of an American Holocaust scholar, Deborah E. Lipstadt, who was sued for libel by a Holocust denier as recounted in her book entitled “Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier”. The screenplay for the film was written by David Hare based on Ms. Lipstadt’s book. Mick Jackson directed the film which stars Rachel Weisz, Tom Wilkinson and Timothy Spatt. This is basically a courtroom drama played out in the London courts and gives the audience a clear understanding of the fundamentals of the British legal system and the roles the solicitor and barrister play. Yet this is not just another Holocaust story but a rather sensitive and personal insight into those who teach about this unfortunate event in world history as well as those who lived to tell about it. Ms. Weisz’ performance is extraordinary and she communicates her dedication to the role certainly in some part because of her own personal background and experience. As a lawyer I can recite a number of improbabilities and inaccuracies that take place in the courtroom scenes but one must remember that the screenplay is based on the perceptions of Ms. Lipstadt and I believe that, had there been more input from a barrister or solicitor in the making of the film, the noted inaccuracies would not have appeared. That being said, and seeing the film as a layman seeking a good entertainment experience, this film adequately attains that goal. Accordingly, I give the film 3 and ½ stars with much of the credit going to Ms. Weisz who is largely responsible for its positive ratin

The Girl on the Train

“The Girl on the Train” is the film version of the best selling novel by Paula Hawkins. Directed by Tate Taylor with a screenplay by Erin  Cressida  Wilson, the movie stars Emily Blunt, Justin Theroux and Haley Bennett. Not having read the book it’s difficult to compare the two vehicles but, standing alone, the film is a series of complicated flashbacks, convoluted scenarios and difficult to follow story lines so that it is more of a struggle watching it than a pleasant experience sitting through it. With all that being said, I did, nevertheless, find myself engrossed in the film and perhaps, even more so, because I was trying to follow what was happening and how it would all ultimately end. Ms. Blunt is an amazing actor and exemplifies extraordinary talent as she dominates and appears in almost every scene and is indeed one of the main reasons I give the film a 3 star rating for, despite all of its shortcomings, it’s a “train ride” the viewer will want to take to the end of the spoken "line".

A Man Called Ove

“A Man Called Ove” is a Swedish film based on the best selling novel by Frederik Bachman who together with director Hannes Holm wrote the screenplay. The well known  Swedish actor, Rolf Lassgard. portrays Mr. Ove in this story of a widowed senior who confronts the loss of his wife and ponders his future as he meets and interacts with new neighbors and acquaintances in the small town where he and his wife lived. This is a simple film filled with simple characters who in some way or another bring hope and joy to their otherwise bland existences. What makes the film work is that it is effortless viewing as the audience, via flashback, witnesses the youth and adulthood of Mr. Ove and how, in each instance, he plays the hands life has dealt him. I give the film 3 and ½ stars with a note to anyone wishing to see it that it will no longer be distributed and available for viewing after October 13, an indeed unlucky number for anyone who misses it.

Queen of Katwe

“Queen of Katwe” is biodrama based on the true story of Phiona, a Ugandan girl with an uncanny and innate gift for playing and winning in the game of chess. The film is based on an article and book written by Tim Crothers,a screenplay by William Wheeler and stars David Oyelowo and Madina Naiwanga (who plays the young chess prodigy). This could easily have turned out to be one of those formula feel good films with their predictable story book endings but, In the capable hands of director Mara Nair (“Amelia”), she brings warmth, emotion and an understanding of the Ugandan culture into this lovely and heart warming film. It Is an enriching movie experience and well deserves the 3 and ½ stars I rate it. Like a winning chess player, Ms. Nair made all the right moves.

Sully

“Sully” is a film depicting the events that occurred on January 15, 2009 when a US Airways pilot, “Sully” Sullenberger, miraculously landed an Airbus 320 airliner in the Hudson River in lower Manhattan and saved the lives of all 155 persons aboard. The film stars Tom Hanks, Laura Linney and Aaron Eckhart and was directed by Clint Eastwood who, like rare wine, seems to get better with each passing year. Told via flashbacks and background events, the audience is made an integral part of the fateful events that the passengers on the New York to Charleston flight experienced that cold winter morning as their plane departed from Laguardia Airport and ended up in the icy waters of the Hudson. The film is indeed a testament to the expertise of the pilot whose split second performance is later evaluated and scrutinized by the investigating agencies using the benefit of hindsight with their self-serving 20/20 vision. It’s always impressive to see a film where everyone knows the outcome yet a feeling of tension and anxiety can be so effectively created in spite of that. Kudos to Mr. Eastwood whose directorial skills show themselves in each frame and scene and make this a truly positive movie to see. A Washington Post article jokingly said that one should never travel with Mr. Hanks for as "Captain Phillips", the Federal Express employee in "Cast Away" and the commander of "Apollo 13", his trips almost always seem to encounter problems. That being said, I urge all to travel this time with Mr. Hanks as Captain Sullenberger on his 280 second flight from land to water, It is a quality venture that the movie traveler most certainly will enjoy.  I give the film 3 and 1/2 stars for no matter what seat you are in, it will truly be a "first class"  experience.

Hell or High Water

“Hell or High Water” was directed by David Mackenzie and written by Taylor Sheridan. Disguised as a western this is really a contemporary chase film whose underlying subject and message could have been written by a Bernie Sanders speech writer. The film stars Chris Pine and Ben Foster who portray two brothers seeking revenge and retribution from the Texas bank that has foreclosed on their family home while Jeff Bridges (playing the same character as he did in “True Grit” and “Crazy Love”) is the Texas Ranger on the trail of these angry young men. The director and cinema photographer more than adequately capture and depict the mood and lifestyle of Western Texas and of those who reside there. The film does, however, raise serious questions as to the morality of the times and how far a person or group, believing he or they have been wronged,  can or should go in order to seek his or their perception of  “justice”. Although most critics have literally raved about this film, it falls short of that kind of an accolade but it is nevertheless a movie to see and enjoy and, for that reason, I give it 3 stars.

Hunt for the Wilderpeople

“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” is a New Zealand film directed by Taika Waittiti who also wrote the screenplay based on the novel by Barry Crump. The film stars Julian Dennison and Sam Neill and tells the story of an unwanted ward of the country’s foster care system who, as an unloved teenager, finds his way into the lives and hearts of one family. Enhanced by the beautiful scenery of the bush country and the tremendous acting of both young master Dennison and Mr. Neill, the film is an adventure, a comedy and a drama perhaps better suited for a movie of the week on television. That notwithstanding, I give the film 3 stars because, when all is said and done, I look back and consider that, by viewing it, I had a satisfying theatrical experience.

Florence Foster Jenkins

Florence Foster Jenkins" is a movie that stars Meryl Streep in the title role ably supported by Hugh Grant as the husband of this socialite and supporter of the arts who, although dedicated to music and to singing, was more mocked than appreciated by those who heard her.
Enough cannot be said of Ms. Streep who portrays her character with grace and dignity amidst the jeers of her audiences and, through it all, evokes a compassion and sympathy to the viewer. A lesser actor could have made a comedic buffoon of her performance but this is, after all, Meryl Streep, and she strides the delicate balance between a comical and serious performance with the scalpel that only great artists can achieve. The film is based on the life of the real Florence Foster Jenkins.  Hugh Grant, as her dedicated and loyal husband joins. Ms. Streep in receiving accolades for his sensitive portrayal as her enabling spouse and companion. Unfortunately, as with most films based on real events, the writer and director are tied to the facts, whether they be interesting or not. In this case, its hard to give this film too high a rating in spite of the fine acting performances because the plot is thin and much too simple. However, and because it represents an interesting and little known part of the world of music in the late 19th and mid 20th centuries, the film deserves to be seen and, for that reason, I give it 2 and ½ stars

Indignation

"Indignation" is adapted from the novel by Philip Roth and was written for the screen and directed by James Schamus, former head of focus Pictures and long time assistant to director Ang Lee. Mr. Schamus’ multi talented skills result in a wonderful adaptation of Mr. Roth’s coming of age novel involving the story of a young Jewish boy from New Jersey who meets life’s challenges in the mid western college to which his parents send him in the hope that it will put him on the path to economic and professional success. The film stars Logan Lerman ("Perks of Being a Wallflower", "Fury" and "310 to Yuma"), Canadian actress Sarah Gadon and a dynamic Tracy Letts as the Dean of the Christian college in which Mr. Lerman’s character enrolls. Enough cannot be said of the performance of Mr. Lerman who, himself, as an actor, has indeed also come of age from the roles he played in the films mentioned above. His casting as young Marcus Messner was perfect and as was that of his costars in this tightly knit and well written and directed story of youth and mores in the early and mid 1950’s. I give the film 3 and ½ stars and suggest that it be seen by all who are seeking to have a quality film experience.

Cafe Society

"Café Society" represents 80 year old Woody Allen’s 47th film and, after a couple of recent merely "OK" submissions, his latest is a real winner. Written and directed by this talented octogenarian, Mr. Allen, as the film's narrator, tells a tender and warm love story which stars Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart and Steve Carell in this effort by a young kid from the Bronx (Mr. Eisenberg) who comes to a 1930’s Los Angeles in search of a new career. Mr. Allen’s familiar jabs at Los Angeles and his obvious love of Manhattan all take prominence in this beautifully written, acted and photographed film. Mention must also be made of the wonderful soundtrack that supports each well directed scene so that the audience is captured by and brought into the genre and lifestyle appearing on the screen. This is a film that the viewer can just sit back, relax and enjoy with a story that is well told in words and pictures and, in no understatement, restores Mr. Allen to his rightful place as one of the great filmmakers of our time.. I give the film 3 ½  stars with a strong recommendation that it be seen by all who can find a way to get to any theater in which it may be playing.