Netflix – The Devil All The Time (****) is Southern Ohio Gothic
If ever there were a modern story that touched on the beautiful losers vibe of William Faulkner in the post WWII era…
The New Mutants (**1/2) is an old film by now
As the film fades from memory, The New Mutants will be remembered as not much more than a footnote for a franchise that flew atop of the cinematic world for a brief time.
Mulan (****1/2) almost escapes the Disney sheen
This is not a perfect film, but it’s a damn entertaining one. Mulan gives as forceful a message for equality as one can give without pandering whatsoever.
Bill & Ted Trilogy (***) often takes the easier, funnier route
I appreciate these films more now in hindsight than I ever could when I was younger. With less time to waste, this trilogy finally feels like less a waste of my precious hours.
Tenet (****1/2) Explores time in a bottle
There is a lot of sequel potential here, but only if Nolan continues himself. It’s the kind of plot device that could go straight to hell if not handled right.
Another Look: Open Range (****) Has aged well
It’s not perfect. It is entertaining throughout.
Freaks (****) Not gonna run anymore
Written and Directed by Adam Stein, Zach LipovskyStarring Emile Hirsch, Bruce Dern, Grace Park, Amanda Crew, Lexy Kolker Chloe Lewis (Kolker) is seven years old. She has lived in an […]
Criterion: Further downstream of The Virgin Spring to The Last House on the Left
…it’s remarkable how far a medieval ballad can reach through time, even if what comes out on the other side holds little resemblance to the significance of the tale.
The Jesus Rolls (**1/2) to nowhere
…the movie just serves to let us know Turturro connects one of his most famous characters to his love of an aimless French film.
The Peanut Butter Falcon (****) – Bound for Glory
If you have free time this weekend, give The Peanut Butter Falcon a shot. It’s on Amazon Prime and Hulu right now and the story, atmosphere and heart would do a viewer good on a hot summer night.
Sorry To Bother You (**) Comedy + Woke = Not funny
Riley and company might create a compelling version of his story a few films from now. For now it just feels like something we’re supposed to learn, which is rarely funny.
Another Look: Casino (**1/2) is a stale imitation
It’s one of the fruits of the labor of a great career that he’s been able to keep remaking the same film over and over. This doesn’t make the stale fruit taste any better.
The Man From Nowhere (*****) Supernova
If you see only one more action film, let this be it.
Another Look: Heist (****) Is refined gold
Hackman’s natural style works perfectly with Mamet’s prose. His dialogue is direct, sometimes crude, but never frivolous.
The Grudge 2020 (***1/2) – This is a side-quel
A well acted, decently filmed, but unneeded sequel. That’s the best definition of a side-quel I can muster.
Forgotten Gem: About A Boy (*****) He’s Expressing You
The list of movies I have been putting off is shrinking by the day. Add another classic to the list.
