Angel in the House (2011)

(called Foster on IMDb)

Seen on Netflix 12/2016

Best visual sundae ever, with pastel pretty colors, cheery music, photo-ready interior design and even a cameo by LEGOLAND-Windsor. This film is a fairy tale in the best (the only scene of violence occurs off screen) sense. My only negatives are an occasionally boisterous soundtrack and ironically a few scenes of non-dialogue composed of people having "fun". What pushes this movie into the 4-star category is a charismatic group of lead actors Toni Collette (as Zooey), Ioan Gruffudd (Alec), Richard E. Grant (Mr.  Potts) and Maurice Cole (Eli) who elevate this movie from cliché to charm.

The OA

An original 8-part series on Netflix 12/2016


I binge-watched this 8-part series in one day. While I cannot say that I loved this movie, it certainly held my attention. The actors seemed comfortable in their roles. Lighting, both daylight and night-time, seemed overly somber. As I do not remember specifics concerning the soundtrack, I would guess that it was adequate without taking the viewer out of the movie. However, it was disappointing that as an 8-part series sufficient backstory was given to more of the characters to explain their actions. Philosophy and metaphysics were more in evidence then logic and reality.The last 30-40 seconds of the ending felt tacked on, whether for art or for hope of additional episodes, I have no clue. Until those last few seconds I felt the conclusion was meant (excluding those last 30+ seconds) to be in the mind and the eye of the viewer.

I Dream Too Much (2016)

Seen on Netflix 12/15/2016

Beautiful exteriors, good soundtrack, vocals (Danielle Brooks) and Diane Ladd make this movie worth the watch. It is slow moving, with a predictable path and an abrupt ending which is why I have rated the movie with 3 not 4 stars.  Millennial ennui (what to do after college graduation) is not a riveting topic for a movie, which is why I wish Diane Ladd had been given more screen time.  The best dialogue has been given to Diane Ladd or maybe it is her ability to make ordinary words shimmer.  The other characters are somewhat sketched out, but not unlikeable. I can see this movie more effective as a stage play. However, watch it for Diane Ladd and you will not feel that your time has been wasted.

A Christmas Horror Story (2015)

Seen on Netflix 12/15/2016




A holiday horror gift from Canada? Well I was surprised (and entertained). This is a horror anthology, with a  common thread winding throughout all stories. No, not just Christmas or horror, I did figure out the general direction it was headed, however still enjoyed the (sleigh) ride. William Shatner, as a radio host "Dangerous Dan", served as a frame for this anthology. William Shatner is worth whatever they paid him. Another standout was George Buza (as Santa). Had the stories contained characters with a little more depth, then this film would be worth 4 stars. I wonder if this film was the holiday episode for a series. The opening and closing credits have cheery holiday music.  The graphics in the opening credits were spectacular, but I wish some of that graphics money had been spent on the individual stories' plots. Cinematography was good, if somewhat dark (literally felt the need to adjust my screen). The editing is a bit choppy due to the decision to bounce to different stories and then go back again.  Stay for the closing credits, homilies spoken by William Shatner are priceless.

Yoga Hosers (2016)

seen on Netfix 12-13-2016


I know 4 stars. Full disclosure, I am a fan of Kevin Smith movies (but NOT Tusk), podcasts and YouTube channel.  This movie made me laugh, quite often. The Colleens have great chemistry and energy. The downsides were (1) accented English of Johnny Depp's character (which almost required English subtitles) and (2) the identity of the actor portraying the Bratzis (I was able to "forget" until movie ended). This is an insane movie. I suppose many of the negative reviews result from people expecting something else. Assuming Canada does not declare war on USA, I would say that this movie is simply something to make us laugh.  Also it provides elements of a good party game: naming the movies which provide comments and plot developments throughout this film. Stay for the ending credits, there is a great rendition of "O Canada".

The Spirit of Christmas (2015)

Seen on Netflix 12/13/2016


Sweet, well-acted with a warm holiday soundtrack. Thomas Beaudoin (playing "Daniel") should be given an award for playing a most unbelievable character in a quite believable way.  This is a holiday romance.  Like any holiday film, do not over-think it just relax and enjoy.

Joe Rogan: Triggered

2016 comedy special on Netflix (watched 12/02/2016)

This show is very politically incorrect and very funny. Towards the conclusion, Mr. Rogan's stand-up went a little Exorcist-ish (for about 2 minutes too long), but otherwise no complaints from me. Obviously this standup should be considered as rated R for language and mature content, but most stand-ups are in that category. Good production values and editing. Well-placed stills at the beginning of the show.

Dark Places (2015) R

seen on Amazon Prime  11/2016

The acting, cinematography and soundtrack were good, but the story was not. Perhaps the time limitations of a movie format is to blame. I found the motivations, goals and general behavior of the characters illogical and nonsensical. Perhaps a director's cut version would fill in the gaps.  However as the movie currently exists, unless you are a fan of Charlize Theron, skip this movie.

Black Mirror

Season 3 (6 episodes)
(seen on Netflix 10/2016)

My review covers season 3 of Black Mirror. Star ratings by episode in this season are: Nosedive@3/5, Playtest@2/5, Shut Up and Dance@2/5, San Junipero@5/5, Men Against Fire@3/5 and Hated in the Nation@4/5. This is an anthology series (with a 4th season coming to USA in 2017). A theme of how technology may be affecting us in the near future runs through all episodes of this series.  Season 3 episodes are well-directed, skillfully acted and accompanied by superior production values (cinematography, soundtrack, editing). The low star ratings are primarily due to plot and content issues.  Like any anthology,  printed or visual, quite often not every section will be equally liked or appreciated by any one individual. Some episodes may make the viewer feel uncomfortable or even repelled. My advice is to sample each. Scan them to see the thumbnail images.  Do not worry about spoilers.  Just a minor warning on episode 6 of season 3, the conclusion does feel like an actual ending. Perhaps season 4 will address that issue.

Big Eyes (2014)


seen on Netflix October, 2016






This movie was entertaining both for the artwork and the engaging performance of the female lead, Amy Adams (as Margaret Keane). The cinematography was reminiscent of the period (mid 1950's - late 1960's) with bright colors and architecture that reminded me of a life size Barbie-world. The sound track was very much of the period, even including a Beach Boys' song. I cannot judge this movie on specific (biographical) facts. It seems incomprehensible that for 10 years, Ms. Keane supported Walter Keane's lie. However, that support is true. Whether other details of this movie have been dramatized or are actual details, this film still held my attention.  I only have 2 complaints, Christoph Waltz (as Walter Keane) seemed over-the-top in many scenes. Since Mr. Waltz is a talented actor, I can only assume Walter Keane may have been that kind of individual. My other complain is in the courtroom scene which felt rushed. Stay for the closing credits. There is a brief description of what happened after the trial.

CREDITS SPOILER:  Pay attention to the individual sitting on the park bench next to Amy Adams.

I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016)

An original Netflix movie (made in Ontario)






Well this is more of a 2 star movie, but I added a full star for beautiful cinematography, attention to detail (set design and props) and the actors' skill ( Ruth Wilson as Lily and Paula Prentiss as Iris).  However when it comes to plot, script, character motivation and backstory, well....  This is a slow moving movie with only one effective jump scare (towards the end) when the previously sedate soundtrack goes from 1 to 100 in a second.  Ultimately this movie was not bad or awful, just disappointing. The best comparison I can give, is that inadequate but atmospheric short story tucked into an anthology by a frantic editor to enlarge a book.

The Accountant

(2016)

in theater 10/14/2016

I liked this movie, but recognize how its editing mirrored the "issues" of its protagonist. This movie would have made a great 8 - 10 episode series for Netflix. I have had experience with higher level autism behaviors. While I never noticed ninja abilities in individuals with Asperger's Syndrome, Ben Affleck really nailed the facial expression and behavior in social situations.

Raiders! :The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made (2015)
1 hr  33 min NR

Seen on Netflix October 11, 2016





Fun, exciting and well-scored, this documentary kept my attention. The documentary focuses on a fan film of Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) done by a group of boys over a 7 year period (in the 1980's). The boys' film was missing one scene.  This scene was finally added by the now adult participants. Frequent interviews with the now adult participants keep this documentary flowing. The recreated film may end up being thought of as more creative than Gus Van Sant's re-shooting of Psycho (1998) and more relatable than Richard Linklater's Boyhood (2014). The levels of this documentary are like a Russian puzzle doll with a film within a film within a film.  Its message is less complex, believe in yourself, set goals and nurture friendships. However it is also a sometimes funny, sometimes serious story of how a few boys, their families and some famous people connected over one film. While the recreated film may not live on as a classic, its heart, diligence, practical techniques (and just plain luck) should be taught in film schools.  Stay for the end credits to see scene recreations posted with scenes from the actual film.

Luke Cage (2016)

A 13-episode Marvel series on Netflix.

Luke Cage is a series (and a man) for anyone interested in a good action thriller.  This series is not just for Marvel fans.  The soundtrack is almost an additional character with the music adding emphasis and meaning accomplished  simply through audio.  The action is directed well with impact of fists and inorganic objects noted clearly yet not over done.  The standout performances are Mike Coulter (as Luke Cage), Alfre Woodard (as Mariah Dillard) and Rosario Dawson (as Claire Temple), but there are literally no bad performances. Characters have backstories creating 3D personalities.This is a 13 episode series thus was a challenge for my usual binge (took 2 days) watch.  My only negative comment is regarding the last episode.  In a specific scene, it went a little close to the campy-ish effect.  Mike Coulter's gravitas and acting skills prevented that scene from propelling that episode to cartoon. I learned from someone familiar with the comic that the villain's look was reminiscent of Marvel's 1970's-80's illustrations, but somehow it took me out of the scene. Again, watch this series whether Marvel fan or not. This series is exciting, brutal and worth the time.

Women He's Undressed (2015)

(watched documentary on Netflix 10/2016)



I had never heard of the Orry-Kelly.  This documentary accomplished the basic doctrine of its category, it enlightened me.  Orry-Kelly was an Australian was a costume designer for many classic movies from the early twentieth century.  He was also an artist, intelligent and ethical (when sober). Darren Gilshenan acts the part of the narrator who is also the subject of this documentary. Darren Gilshenan's delivery, speaking directly to us, the audience, was involving and almost personal.  It felt as if Orry-Kelly was talking directly to the viewer.  Having celebrities in the designing and acting fields speak about their time with Orry-Kelly was well-edited and not overly long. The soundtrack added to the mood of old Hollywood.  While Orry-Kelly's designs were featured throughout the movie, I wish the final credits could have held even more, including his paintings. Whether or not one is interested in fashion and/or Hollywood personalities , this documentary is worth the view.

The Little Prince (2015)


1 hr 48min

Watched on Netflix, August, 2016





Full disclosure the ending made me cry even thought the ending was relatively upbeat. I very much liked this film. However, this film is not a page by page rendition of the book, although actual illustrations are used on a limited basis. Obviously that book would not fill a typical movie's run time. The message of the book is the engine that runs this movie. The Aviator and Little Prince are the teachers while the little girl symbolizes the passage that all humanity travels. The animation is colorful and charming.  The voice actors (although mostly famous) did not take me out of the story. The editing could have been tighter in the third act of the movie. The music was very cheery, very French, it added to the positive energy of each scene.  The extra scenes in the credits were encouraging as to the fate of the little girl.  The pace might be a little slow for some children.  I would recommend a quick read of (it is a short book) The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Suicide Squad (2016) --- review

While this movie lacks the technical smoothness of logical and orderly plot points, I found it entertaining. Perhaps my bar is low for fantasy movies, but Suicide Squad held my attention. No, it will not win an award at Cannes, but it was enjoyable.  However the villain needed more depth as the resulting performance seemed almost campy without being threatening.  What won me over were most of the performances along with the interaction of the cast. 

Puncture (2011)
R - rating

Seen on Netflix 07/31/2016, based on a true story


While not widely known, this is an important film. I heard about this film from a Collider Movie News video on YouTube (via Mark Ellis).  I almost bailed on this film several times, not due to the acting, directing, editing, soundtrack or dialogue which were all expertly done.  My reasons were my own weakness.  This film takes a very explicit view of an addict and of a corporate coverup. While I knew Chris Evans (as Mike Weiss both a brilliant attorney and an addict with a very stupid sense of eventual damage from illegal and prescription drugs) from the Avenger/Captain America films, I had no idea the scope of his talents. The performance of Chris Evans elevates this movie from the usual disease/persecuted small guy-type melodrama, to a affecting drama.  The end credits give some closure to this story (based on a true case).  I recommend this movie to those interested in stories with legal and investigative themes. I would love to make this movie mandatory screening for the USA congress and senate along with WHO (World Health Organization) . This film is is not a stuffy sterile story, but one with the ability to keep the viewer riveted to the screen.

Ghostheads (2016)

a documentary on Netflix July, 2016

This film sat on my queue for a while.  I decided to avoid this streaming service's reviews, watch the 2016 Ghostbusters movie and then watch Ghostheads.  I was surprised at how much I liked this documentary (and the 2016 movie).  Ghostheads is well-paced and energetic.  Interviews with actors, directors and ghostheads* (*people who dress as Ghostbusters and attend conventions) were interwoven expertly. I actually did not realize that the fans of the two older Ghostbusters movies were so positive concerning the 2016 version. The internet had led me in the opposite direction. The editing of this documentary kept the pace moving along with the soundtrack. While dressing up or being fascinated by a fictional character may seem juvenile to some, the people in this movie used this fascination for good.

Spotlight (2015)

Saw on Neflix 07/2016 (also saw in theater in 2015)

When this film was released in 2015, I viewed it at a theater. It seems wrong to say that this movie entertained me, but I never lost interest during its entire length. However, even upon this second viewing I was unable to stop watching. Spotlight is the name of an investigative unit at a Boston newspaper called, The Boston Globe. The movie details one very far-reaching investigative story. This story is chilling, devastating and yet amazing.  Somehow seeing this film on the small screen magnified its effect.  The dialogue is smart, brief with no extraneous words inserted.  Cinematography, editing and soundtrack cooperated seamlessly without taking the viewer out of the film.  The ensemble acting of the cast is at the highest level.  I would even say that this movie should be part of a film school curriculum. Due to the story content and some language, its R rating is earned.  However, also due to its story content I would recommend this movie to children as young as twelve or thirteen, assuming an adult was in the room and accessible for the entire movie. This is a movie not to be missed. The heroes in this movie did their job without capes, masks or superpowers which I feel made them even more compelling and watchable.

The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)

an orignal Netflix film - watched 06/2016

I liked the trailer, but this movie exceeded those expectations. While the road trip or fatherhood challenges are not new movie concepts; the dialogue, plot, acting and even the scenery elevated this movie. The standouts were Paul Rudd (as Ben), Craig Roberts (as Trevor) and Selena Gomez (as Dot). The supporting actors were also very good at portraying characters that seemed familiar and mostly relatable.  Only two characters seemed superficial and two dimensional, Ben's estranged wife and Trevor's runaway father. Perhaps their shallowness were reflective of their roles.The cinematography maintained the action of this film with the layering of both ordinary stops at motels and extraordinary scenery.  I might have shortened 2 scenes slightly (baby scene and urination scene) and added that time to the final scene to include an additional character.  The music and editing were smoothly blended without taking the viewer out of the film.  When the film was over, I wished that I had contact with these people to learn the directions that their lives took.  I think wanting more, is what a good film should produce in the viewer. As a rating I would give this movie a PG-13 due to a minor amount of "language" (which I found hysterical yet necessary) and the general subject matter.

Monster Hunt (2015)

(Subtitled) Chinese Film

Seen on Netflix June, 2016


I found this movie on a search for something new and different. Almost bailed after initial 10 minutes due to dialogue (not because of the captioning) that was rather simplistic. However, I stayed.  Give Monster Hunt a chance. This movie is humorous, charming, has martial arts and really cute monsters.  However, as other reviewers have pointed out this is more of an adult movie. I would tend to rate this movie R due to the violence and treatment of the monsters or maybe a PG-13 that really pushes the bar. While there are some loose ends, such as the fate of the main character's parents, how the monsters acquire their disguises and the end game for the monsters, I am guessing that this movie is intended to be an early part of a series. The soundtrack is typical for a Chinese movie, very noble and dramatic sounding, but did not take me out of the movie.  The human actors and the CGI actors interacted well, without a hint of green screen/ball on a stick-syndrome. I am guess that the 3D probably was impressive in a theater. Do not skip "extras" during the beginning of the credits.

Scatter My Ashes at BERGDORF'S (2013)

Netflix - watched June, 2016


I enjoyed this documentary. While the title seems contrived, it originates from a satirical cartoon of ladies who lunch by Victoria Roberts which appeared in the April 30, 1990 issue of The New Yorker (magazine) with the caption, "I want my ashes scattered at Bergdorf's".  The writer and director used a current (appeared in 2011) 5 window project from planning to glorious completion as a frame for this documentary. Data within this frame is carefully edited to specific topics. I would not advise it, but fast forwarding is an option.  Within the documentary are historical photos, current videos along with interviews of designers whose creations appear at Bergdorf's, designers who wish their creations to appear at Bergdorf's, fashion reporters, Bergdorf corporate officers and staff along with a few Bergdorf clients. The cinematography highlights the fashion and NYC scenery along with a background musical score which, like Bergdorf employees and clients, is fashionable but not strident. While the subject of this documentary, a luxury department store sounds frivolous or not relevant, consider the store's place as a long-lived character of NYC.  This documentary is an excellent view into both centuries (store was founded in 1899) of fashion and fashion merchandising.  The documentary ends with a colorful view of the 5 window themed display "Carnival of the Animals" (brass, paper, wood, mosaic aquarium, polar garden party). In a busy, preoccupied, sophisticated NYC, it was fascinating to see people stop, stare and take photos.

The Champions (2015)

watched on Netflix June, 2016

This is a great documentary.  I almost did not watch for fear that violence or carnage would be shown.  However, it was not, which makes me respect the creators of this documentary. There is mention  of the Michael Vick case in which these dogs were considered evidence, but were this a book that would be the prologue.  The subsequent "chapters" include the rescue, the growth and the forever homes that some of the dogs were able to join.  There is a brief, but descriptive report done by the USDA (2007) that investigated this case with documentation by eyewitnesses.  That report is the most shocking portion of this movie, but is brief. Most of this movie concerns what happened after the 2007 court case. The interviews with the caregivers of the dogs and the adoptive families was edited and filmed expertly.  The scenery was gorgeous and the families were articulate.  This film was released in 2015, with the Michael Vick investigation occurring in 2007, sadly this abuse of animals and breed prejudice continues.  There are several videos in the end credits which should not be missed. The only negative in this documentary is the lack of any interviews or notification of a refusal,  with PETA (which declares that all fighting dogs should be immediately euthanized) and Michael Vick (whom a interviewee in this film tried to get a statement from, but was ignored). One individual in this movie referred to the dogs as champions.  I would like to expand the movie's title to include not only the dogs, but the people who saved them and the adopters who included these dogs as part of their families.

Tab Hunter Confidential (2015)

seen on Netflix

I had heard of Tab Hunter. He was an actor with a name seemingly chosen using a really bad algorithm. I knew he was a movie star from another age whose movies were shown on obscure cable channels in the early morning. This documentary kept my attention, was entertaining and enlightening. Cinematography and editing of this documentary gracefully balanced scenes from old movies and television shows along with a interview done for this documentary. The directing was well-done with neither too quick a cut between scenes or too much information. While many 21st century movie attendees may never  have heard of Tab Hunter, this film still has relevance . This film is also the story about movies and the studio system back when there were not very many options. Even more interesting, this man made it out alive, loves his current life and his longtime partner.  Tab Hunter, both this film and this man should be considered a success.

HUSH (2016)

Rated:  R

Seen on Netflix

YouTube movie reviewer, Chris Stuckmann, recommended this movie on his channel.  My initial impression from reading the movie’s description was that this movie looked derivative of so many of the predator (twisted human not alien in this one) versus a seemingly unprepared weak victim (in this case a disabled woman). This movie is much smarter than that trope.

However this is an intense, deserves its R, movie.  For me, there was an almost tension relieving moment of humor in the last third of the movie due to an individual (not a main character) who was dumber than dirt. I am intentionally being vague to avoid spoilers.  This is a great thriller. I agree with Chris Stuckmann ‘s recommendation except, do not watch this movie alone, especially if you live in a cabin in the woods.

Hell and Back (2015)
R - animation (on Netflix)


This film made me laugh. I like the graphics. I was surprised at the details shown (some you might wish to unsee). The musical scoring is great. I recognized the names of most of the voice actors and have seen their stand-ups (live and on this service).  I rated it 3 out of 5 stars, as a few things made me cringe.  However maybe that was just me.  This is a (hard) R-rated comedy and meant for adults.  Adults, for this movie, should NOT BE sensitive, easily shocked and adverse to swearing.  Check out the stand-ups of the voice actors, you like those then you will like this move.

Before We Go (2014)

watched on Netflix 03/06/2016




My rating is more of a 3.5 than 4 stars, but the charm and chemistry of the two leads (Chris Evans and Alice Eve) bumped it up.  This is a quiet film, almost restful.  I am guessing that it did poorly in theatrical release. This film required the intimacy of a small screen. The name of Chris Evans has come to be associated with high energy, copious amounts of CGI along with lots of things exploding so I am guessing this is why Chris Evans choose this script for his directorial debut.  Admittedly the plot is minimal, two people stuck in the city and stuck in their lives. There is not so much of a plot presented as a feeling viewed under the limitations of time (approximately 12 hours). One thing this movie had that I dislike as a lazy trope, is the loud music montage while a crucial conversation takes place that we the viewers can only guess at its contents.  Other than that, the movie is scored well.  The cinematography is efficient and crisp.  The directing is competent.  This New York City is dangerous, but not too dangerous with some unbelievably generous (regarding cash and cell phones) people. The action is minimal and almost as limited as a conventional broadway production. John Cullum has a short, but quite effective scene focusing these two "stuck" people on choosing a path, in order to move forward.  While I wish the ending were a little more definitive, it probably symbolized that we all have choices. I would recommend this movie for viewers looking for a quiet, sweet, warm, romance without too much angst or twists.

If I Were You (2012)


watched on Netflix 02-27-2016



This movie was in my queue unwatched for a month or two. I selected it because of my admiration for Marcia Gay Harden. I had never heard of this movie. Marcia Gay Harden is one of those actresses who is never bad, even if the film is bad. Although this movie borrows heavily from Shakespeare, there is even an production of King Lear as part of its plot, it is well-written and expertly acted. The score does what it should, highlight not overpower the film.  The filming is mostly interiors, although there is a great snow scene towards the end.The beginning seems to have predictable, soap-opera theme, but the film steadily improves.  To avoid spoilers, I do not want to get into details.  While this movie isn't stuffed with jokes, it is filled with humor.  The humor is provided by the character's conversations.  So pay attention to what everyone says.  Do not confuse stupidity with naiveté. I have read a few of Shakespeare's comedies and tragedies.  While knowledge of those plays is not essential to the enjoyment of this movie, knowing Shakespearean plots and themes will make this movie even more enjoyable.  Marcia Gay Harden's performance during the last 10 minutes of this movie was riveting.  While it seems to end abruptly without answers, it actually does not. Carefully watch Marcia Gay Harden's expression at the conclusion of "the play within a play", that gives closure.  I would recommend this movie to anyone enjoying comedies and plays.  As for the rating, the themes are R, but I would say this is more of a strong PG-13.

October Gale (2014)

seen on Netflix

Entertaining, but checking the other reviews, mine is not a popular opinion. As usual, I "found" this movie lodged within this streaming service (NOTE TO N:  please edit your content and get more movies off DVD-only and into the streaming library).  Without the charismatic leads, Patricia Clarkson, Scott Speedman and Tim Roth, this movie would have just been nice scenery with unmemorable performances.  This film seems to be kind of a romantic thriller, not sure if that is a valid category.  I would not look for logic or practicality in this movie (those familiar with boat docks will probably find that scene in this movie amusing). While I did speed through some of the husband flashbacks.  Those portions needed editing. However, I would have added maybe 30-40 seconds to the end of the movie.  Otherwise, watching this film is not an unpleasant way to spend approximately 91 minutes.

After The Wedding (2006)

seen on Netflix


This is a relatively straight forward drama, but a very well acted and directed one. I was attracted to this movie when I saw that Mads Mikkelsen was in the leading role.  Although he was not portraying the character he is usually cast in (think Casino Royale and Hannibal), he was believable as the gentle, but financially inept manager, Jacob Pedersen of an orphanage in India. There is a slowness, almost stiffness to the beginning of this movie. I believe that this was a deliberate action by the director and writer to show how Jacob Pedersen (Mads Mikkelsen) later opens up to life and living. Jacob has returned to his home country, Denmark to raise money for the orphanage. Away from the orphanage, he is awkward with people, hardly smiling or making eye contact. The acting is first rate and the scenes in Denmark and India are breathtaking. The soundtrack literally underscores and emphasizes the emotions in this movie.  I could have done without the multiple close-ups of the actors' eyes (and those of the stuffed/mounted animals). I am sure that it was done to generate a mood, but it got old very quickly.  This eye fascination was the only element that I disliked in the movie. Although  the English captioning did make me wonder if I was getting everything. Watching the actors mouths, hearing them speak and seeing the short sentences appear in the English caption field gave me the general impression that I might have been getting the abridged version of the script.  Luckily all the actors were up to the task of not only speaking but portraying emotions with their faces and body language.  SPOILER:  There is an emotional scene in the last 30 minutes of this film that is devastating to watch.

The Best Offer (2013)

Viewed on Netflix


I had not heard of this film, but Geoffrey Rush always provides an excellent experience so I watched.  Geoffrey Rush even elevates the Pirates of the Caribbean series.  This film is beautifully shot and scored.  The performances are uniformly excellent, both for the main and secondary characters. Perhaps this film could have used some editing. Some scenes are overly long.  I did see the twist happening fairly early in the film. However, the movie was so beautiful to view with dialogue so intelligent, that I stayed. I did not feel that the movie manipulated or lied to me, I knew what was coming. The descriptions of the art and the antiques in this film gave insight into the people who moved around these objects.  The conclusion of the film was a little metaphor-heavy with the decor. I took the last portion of dialogue from Virgil Oldman (Geoffrey Rush) to mean, when all else fails, there is still hope. While this movie takes place in modern day (iPad and smartphones are in resident among the relics, dust and debris), I would recommend this film to those who enjoy Jane Austen, period (18th/19th century) romances and museums. To provide my own metaphor, traveling through this movie is like taking the train rather than the jet. The trip is as important as the destination.

SPOILER: Listen very closely to everything the Donald Sutherland character says, so many clues.

Meet My Valentine (2015)

on Netflix

This film is fine. While not a unique or riveting story, Meet My Valentine does hold the attention of the viewer with its two charismatic leads, Scott Wolf and Courtney Ford. They play the roles of a husband and a wife facing several life-changing events.  The movie is well shot and scored.  I liked this movie.  However, it could have used some editing.  Most likely redundant and surplus dialogue was included to emphasize how wonderful these two people are. The director and editor should have trusted their talented leads to portray their characters (and us/the potential viewers watching this film) without some overlong scenes which verge on cliché.   I would recommend this movie to those who enjoy the lifetime romances or Nicholas Sparks novels/films.

Marie's Story (2014)

--on Netflix

Although slow moving at times, with some "tantrum-level" violence, I thoroughly enjoyed this film. This is an emotional and satisfying movie. It has more to offer than just a teacher and her student. The events in this movie unfold naturally as if the viewer is watching in real time. The cinematography is beautiful. The musical score intensifies the emotions of the characters. The dialogue is spare, but every word counts. The leads, Soeur Margerite (Isabelle Carre) and Marie (Ariana Rivoire) are played by two immensely talented people who portray emotions with their hands and facial expressions. Stay for the credits as there are a few notes that tell what happened to the real Marie later in her life. While it would not be my choice of a life, it was an honorable and productive life.

AEon Flux (2005)

Netflix

I liked this movie. Apply no logic and look for no Oscar worthy performances, but this movie had energy, a great look, Sophie Okonedo (Sithandra) and Charlize Theron (AEon Flux). While Frances McDormand (Handler) and Pete Postlethwaite (Keeper) were underused, I appreciated their onscreen time. This movie is a guilty pleasure, to be enjoyed with no calories and only an investment in this streaming service and approximately 93 minutes of a viewer's time.