The Reel Dr. Bob

FEBRUARY 3, 2022

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK- NONE

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MOVIES COMING TO NETFLIX ON A DISC- NONE THAT I CAN RECOMMEND

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NEW MOVIES IN THEATERS AND/OR STREAMABLE-

1) FUTURA– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Futura is a collective reportage by Pietro Marcello, Francesco Munzi and Alice Rohrwacher. It explores what boys and girls aged 15 to 20 think about the future through a series of interviews filmed during a long journey across Italy. A portrait of this country as seen through the eyes of a group of teen-agers who speak of the places they live in, of their dreams, expectations, desires and fears.”

1/29/21- Excellent reviews for this Italian documentary. TRDB. In Theaters

2) THE CONDUCTOR– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The Conductor takes the audience into the heart of classical music, and into the soul of one of its top artists, the internationally renowned conductor Marin Alsop — the first woman to serve as music director of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra, and the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra.”

1/29/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. In Theaters

3) THE FALLOUT– 2022. Synopsis by Netflix. “When shots ring out at her high school, Vada Cavell survives by hiding in a bathroom stall with two other students. But in the wake of the horror, Vada finds her world forever changed and falls into a downward spiral that puts her on a perilous path.”

1/19/22- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB. On HBO Max

4) BRIGHTON 4th – 2022.  Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes.  “This movie is about an Olympic wrestling champion who is paying a visit to his son.”

1/30/22- Very good reviews. TRDB. In Theaters

5) SUNDOWN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vacationing in Acapulco with his sister and her kids, wealthy Neil Bennett heads to the airport when he learns his mom has died. But just before boarding the plane, he pretends his passport is missing and abandons his life to lose himself in Mexico.”

1/30/22- Fair reviews. TRDB. In Theaters

6) BEYOND THE INFINITE TWO MINUTES– 2021.

It’s been called a goofy load of fun.

1/31/22- This movie earned very good reviews with the exception of the NY Times. On Prime Video

7) THEY/THEM/US– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “They/Them/Us tells the story of Charlie and Lisa, two divorced parents in their 40’s who find themselves at a midlife crossroads. Both are single parents and they have four complicated teenagers between them: one non-binary gender kid, one who orders his weed through the mail, one very outspoken one, and last but not least, the “good” child. ”

1/31/21- Fair to good review for this drama. TRDB. In Theaters

8) A TASTE OF HUNGER–  2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A couple sacrifice everything to get a coveted Michelin star for their popular restaurant in Copenhagen, Denmark.”

1/31/21-  Mostly good reviews. TRDB. In Theaters and various platforms including  Prime Video.

9)  WHO WE ARE: A CHRONICLE OF RACISM IN AMERICA– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Interweaving lecture, personal anecdotes, interviews, and shocking revelations, in WHO WE ARE: A Chronicle of Racism in America, criminal defense/civil rights lawyer Jeffery Robinson draws a stark timeline of anti-Black racism in the United States, from slavery to the modern myth of a post-racial America.”

SKIP THESE

1) LA SOGA: SALVATION– In Theaters and streaming from various sources

2) CLEAN– Really poor reviews. In Theaters and streaming from many sources

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MOVIES SHOWING AT THE JACOB BURNS FILN CENTER IN PLEASANTVILLE, NY

1) WHO WE ARE: A CHRONICLE OF RACISM IN AMERICA- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Interweaving lecture, personal anecdotes, interviews, and shocking revelations, in WHO WE ARE: A Chronicle of Racism in America, criminal defense/civil rights lawyer Jeffery Robinson draws a stark timeline of anti-Black racism in the United States, from slavery to the modern myth of a post-racial America.”

2) PARALLEL MOTHERS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Two women, Janis and Ana, coincide in a hospital room where they are going to give birth. Both are single and became pregnant by accident. Janis, middle-aged, doesn’t regret it and she is exultant. The other, Ana, an adolescent, is scared, repentant and traumatized..”

12/24/21- Excellent reviews for this Spanish drama. TRDB.

3) BRIGHTON 4th– 2022.  Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes.  “This movie is about an Olympic wrestling champion who is paying a visit to his son.”

1/30/22- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) SUNDOWN- 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vacationing in Acapulco with his sister and her kids, wealthy Neil Bennett heads to the airport when he learns his mom has died. But just before boarding the plane, he pretends his passport is missing and abandons his life to lose himself in Mexico.”

1/30/22- Fair reviews. TRDB. In Theaters

5)  LICORICE PIZZA–

6) THE VELVET QUEEN– Limited  screenings

MOVIES SHOWING AT THE AMC THEATER IN DANBURY CT

1) SUNDOWN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vacationing in Acapulco with his sister and her kids, wealthy Neil Bennett heads to the airport when he learns his mom has died. But just before boarding the plane, he pretends his passport is missing and abandons his life to lose himself in Mexico.”

1/30/22- Fair reviews. TRDB.

2)  WHO WE ARE: A CHRONICLE OF RACISM IN AMERICA- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Interweaving lecture, personal anecdotes, interviews, and shocking revelations, in WHO WE ARE: A Chronicle of Racism in America, criminal defense/civil rights lawyer Jeffery Robinson draws a stark timeline of anti-Black racism in the United States, from slavery to the modern myth of a post-racial America.”

3) LICORICE PIZZA–

MOIVES SHOWING IN PALM BEACH, FL.

1) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

a) PARALLEL MOTHERS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Two women, Janis and Ana, coincide in a hospital room where they are going to give birth. Both are single and became pregnant by accident. Janis, middle-aged, doesn’t regret it and she is exultant. The other, Ana, an adolescent, is scared, repentant and traumatized..”

12/24/21- Excellent reviews for this Spanish drama. TRDB.

b) WEST SIDE STORY– reviewed before

c) HOUSE OF GUCCI– reviewed before

2) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- Same as Lake Worth but also showing RED ROCKET

3) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON

a) A TASTE OF HUNGER– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A couple sacrifice everything to get a coveted Michelin star for their popular restaurant in Copenhagen, Denmark.”

1/31/21-  Mostly good reviews. TRDB.

b) PARALLEL MOTHERS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Two women, Janis and Ana, coincide in a hospital room where they are going to give birth. Both are single and became pregnant by accident. Janis, middle-aged, doesn’t regret it and she is exultant. The other, Ana, an adolescent, is scared, repentant and traumatized..”

12/24/21- Excellent reviews for this Spanish drama. TRDB.

c) SUNDOWN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vacationing in Acapulco with his sister and her kids, wealthy Neil Bennett heads to the airport when he learns his mom has died. But just before boarding the plane, he pretends his passport is missing and abandons his life to lose himself in Mexico.”

1/30/22- Fair reviews. TRDB.

d) WHO WE ARE: A CHRONICLE OF RACISM IN AMERICA- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Interweaving lecture, personal anecdotes, interviews, and shocking revelations, in WHO WE ARE: A Chronicle of Racism in America, criminal defense/civil rights lawyer Jeffery Robinson draws a stark timeline of anti-Black racism in the United States, from slavery to the modern myth of a post-racial America.”

4) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORH PLAYHOUSE

a) HIVE– 2021. Synopsis by  Rotten Tomatoes. “HIVE is a searing drama based on the true story of Fahrije (Yllka Gashi), who, like many of the other women in her patriarchal village, has lived with fading hope and burgeoning grief since her husband went missing during the war in Kosovo. In order to provide for her struggling family, she pulls together the other widows in her community to launch a business selling a local food product. Finding healing and solace in considering a future without their husbands–but their will to begin living independently is met with hostility. The men in the village condemn Fahrije’s efforts to empower herself and the women around her,”

11/5/21- Excellent reviews for this drama from Albania. TRDB.

DECEMBER 9, 2021-

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) 14 PEAKS: NOTHING IS IMPOSIBLE– Netflix

2)  LISTENING TO KENNY G- HBO Max

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1)  14 PEAKS: NOTHING IS IMPOSIBLE–  2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible explores Nepal’s deep connection to high-altitude mountaineering through the eyes of Nirmal “Nimsdai” Purja, a fearless, fun-loving Nepali climber on a quest he dubs “Project Possible”–to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter mountains in just seven months, breaking the previous record of seven years.”

MOVIES COMING TO NETFLIX ON DISC-

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NEW MOVIES IN THEATERS AND/OR STREAMING-

1) BENEDETTA– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A 17th-century nun becomes entangled in a forbidden lesbian affair, but it’s her shocking religious visions that threaten to shake the Church to its very core.”

12/1/21- Very good reviews. TRDB. In Theaters and varius platforms

2) CITIZEN ASHE– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directors Rex Miller and Sam Pollard explore the enduring legacy of tennis great and humanitarian Arthur Ashe in a feature documentary as elegant, meaningful, and poignant as the life he lived. Ashe’s widow, brother, friends from his childhood in Richmond to his Grand Slam tournament playing and coaching days, as well as confidantes that nurtured his personal evolution from sports legend to global activist, describe the key events that shaped Ashe’s quiet determination to ‘use what he had to do what he could.”

12/3/21- Very good reviews for this documentary (biopic). TRDB In Theaters and Prime Video

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3) LISTENING TO KENNY G– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though often dissed for what many consider a bland style of playing, saxophonist Kenny G — according to album sales — is one of the most popular musicians of all time. This documentary examines the reasons behind the polarizing artist’s success.”

12/3/21- No reviews as yet but I like Kenny G and I’ll be sure to see this one. TRDB. On HBO Max

12/5/21- I saw this on HBO Max and liked it. TRDB.

4) FLEE- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “FLEE tells the story of Amin Nawabi as he grapples with a painful secret he has kept hidden for 20 years, one that threatens to derail the life he has built for himself and his soon to be husband. Recounted mostly through animation to director Jonas Poher Rasmussen, he tells for the first time the story of his extraordinary journey as a child refugee from Afghanistan.”

12/4/21- Excellent reviews from the critics for this animated documentary. In Theaters

5) TORN– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Widely hailed as the greatest mountaineer of his generation, Alex Lowe was a towering figure in the world of outdoor sports. But he loomed even larger for his oldest son, Max, who was only 11 in 1999 when Alex was buried by an avalanche along with cameraman David Bridges while attempting to ski the north face of Mount Shishapangma in the Tibetan Himalaya. Seventeen years after their deaths, Lowe’s and Bridges’ bodies were found by two climbers attempting the same route, and in the following months, Lowe’s family journeyed to the remote mountain to recover them. In the powerful and deeply moving new documentary TORN, director Max Lowe examines the long-buried feelings this unearthed for him and his family, including his mother, Jennifer; his younger brothers, Sam and Isaac; and his stepfather, Conrad Anker, Alex’s climbing partner and best friend.

12/4/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. In Theaters.

6) TRY HARDER!- 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “At San Francisco’s highly ranked public school Lowell High, the pressure to get into a top college is intense. This documentary follows five students as they vie to attract the attention of their dream schools while remaining true to themselves.”

7) THE SUMMIT OF THE GODS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this animated adventure, a photojournalist sets out to determine whether mountaineer George Mallory and his climbing partner, Andrew Irvine, were the first to scale Mount Everest. But the question can only be answered by locating Mallory’s camera.”

12/4/21- Excellent reviews for this animated drama. TRDB. On Netflix

8) 14 PEAKS: NOTHING IS IMPOSIBLE–  2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible explores Nepal’s deep connection to high-altitude mountaineering through the eyes of Nirmal “Nimsdai” Purja, a fearless, fun-loving Nepali climber on a quest he dubs “Project Possible”–to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter mountains in just seven months, breaking the previous record of seven years.”

SKIP THESE–

1) RED PILL– On several pay per view platforms

2) SINGLE ALL THE WAY– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Desperate to avoid his family’s judgment about his perpetual single status, Peter (Michael Urie) convinces his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) to join him for the holidays and pretend that they’re now in a relationship. But when Peter’s mother (Kathy Najimy) sets him up on a blind date with her handsome trainer James (Luke Macfarlane)–the plan goes awry. On Netflix

3)  WOLF– In Theaters

4) SILENT NIGHT– In Theaters

5) THE ADVENT CALENDAR

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MOVIES SHOWING IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY

A) THE JACOB BURNS FILM CENTER IN PLEASANTVILLE, NY

NEW-

1) WEST SIDE STORY– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks — two rival gangs vying for control of the streets.”

12/8/21- Excellent reviews for this re-make. TRDB.

2) DRIVE MY CAR– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Two years after his wife’s unexpected death, Yusuke Kafuku (Hidetoshi Nishijima), a renowned stage actor and director, receives an offer to direct a production of Uncle Vanya at a theater festival in Hiroshima. There, he meets Misaki Watari (Toko Miura), a taciturn young woman assigned by the festival to chauffeur him in his beloved red Saab 900. As the production’s premiere approaches, tensions mount amongst the cast and crew, not least between Yusuke and Koji Takatsuki, a handsome TV star who shares an unwelcome connection to Yusuke’s late wife.”

11/27/21- Excellent reviews for this Japanese drama. TRDB.

REPEATS AND LIMITED SCREENINGS-

3) HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) WHEEL OF FORTUNE AND FANTASY– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Centering on a trio of female characters and playing out in vignettes with common themes, this three-part anthology depicts tales about an unforeseen love triangle, a bungled seduction trap and an encounter stemming from a case of mistaken identity.

10/16/21- Excellent reviews for this Japanese drama. TRDB.

5) BELFAST– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “BELFAST is a movie straight from Branagh’s own experience. A nine-year-old boy must chart a path towards adulthood through a world that has suddenly turned upside down. His stable and loving community and everything he thought he understood about life is changed forever but joy, laughter, music and the formative magic of the movies remain.”

11/10/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

12/1/21- I liked this movie very much. Lucky there were sub-titles. TRDB.

MOVIES SHOWING IN DANBURY

A) AMC-

1) BEING THE RICARDOS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Chronicling a week of filming the beloved 1950s sitcom “I Love Lucy,” this biopic follows stars Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz as they experience personal and professional crises that could end their relationship onscreen and off.”

12/8/21- Just fair reviews for this drama/biopic. TRDB.

2) WEST SIDE STORY– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks — two rival gangs vying for control of the streets.”

12/8/21- Excellent reviews for this re-make. TRDB.

3) HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) C’MON C’MON– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix) and his young nephew (Woody Norman) forge a tenuous but transformational relationship when they are unexpectedly thrown together in this delicate and deeply moving story about the connections between adults and children, the past and the future, from writer-director Mike Mills.”

12/1/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

MOVIES SHOWING IN PALM  BEACH COUNY. FL

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH- (Fri-Sun, Wed)

1) WEST SIDE STORY– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks — two rival gangs vying for control of the streets.”

12/8/21- Excellent reviews for this re-make. TRDB.

2) BEING THE RICARDOS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Chronicling a week of filming the beloved 1950s sitcom “I Love Lucy,” this biopic follows stars Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz as they experience personal and professional crises that could end their relationship onscreen and off.”

12/8/21- Just fair reviews for this drama/biopic. TRDB.

3) HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) BELFAST– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “BELFAST is a movie straight from Branagh’s own experience. A nine-year-old boy must chart a path towards adulthood through a world that has suddenly turned upside down. His stable and loving community and everything he thought he understood about life is changed forever but joy, laughter, music and the formative magic of the movies remain.”

11/10/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

12/1/21- I liked this movie very much. Lucky there were sub-titles. TRDB.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- Same as Lake Worth

C) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON

1) BEING THE RICARDOS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Chronicling a week of filming the beloved 1950s sitcom “I Love Lucy,” this biopic follows stars Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz as they experience personal and professional crises that could end their relationship onscreen and off.”

12/8/21- Just fair reviews for this drama/biopic. TRDB.

2) C’MON C’MON– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix) and his young nephew (Woody Norman) forge a tenuous but transformational relationship when they are unexpectedly thrown together in this delicate and deeply moving story about the connections between adults and children, the past and the future, from writer-director Mike Mills.”

12/1/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

3) WEST SIDE STORY– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks — two rival gangs vying for control of the streets.”

12/8/21- Excellent reviews for this re-make. TRDB.

4) WRITING WITH FIRE– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a cluttered news landscape dominated by men emerges India’s only newspaper run by Dalit women. Chief reporter Meera and her journalists break traditions, redefining what it means to be powerful.”

12/9/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

D) THE STONZEK THEATER IN THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE- (Fri–Sun)

1) C’MON C’MON– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix) and his young nephew (Woody Norman) forge a tenuous but transformational relationship when they are unexpectedly thrown together in this delicate and deeply moving story about the connections between adults and children, the past and the future, from writer-director Mike Mills.”

12/1/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

NOVEMBER 25, 2021-

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) PRAYERS FOR THE STOLEN– Netflix

2) TICK TICK BOOM– Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1)  PRAYERS FOR THE STOLEN– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Three young girls on the path to adolescence examine life in a town at war.”
11/19/21- Excellent reviews for this foreign drama and I liked it very much.  TRDB. Netflix.

2) tick, tick… Boom– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda makes his feature directorial debut with tick, tick…BOOM!, an adaptation of the autobiographical musical by Jonathan Larson, who revolutionized theater as the creator of Rent. The film follows Jon (Academy Award nominee and Tony Award winner Andrew Garfield), a young theater composer who’s waiting tables at a New York City diner in 1990 while writing what he hopes will be the next great American musical. Days before he’s due to showcase his work in a make-or-break performance, Jon is feeling the pressure from everywhere.

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COMING TO NETFLIX THIS WEEK ON A DISC-

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NEW IN THEATERS AND/OR STREAMING-

1) KING RICHARD– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. ‘In this fact-based drama, Compton, California’s public tennis courts serve as unlikely training grounds for siblings Venus and Serena Williams as their determined father begins grooming them early for professional careers.”

2) tick, tick… Boom– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda makes his feature directorial debut with tick, tick…BOOM!, an adaptation of the autobiographical musical by Jonathan Larson, who revolutionized theater as the creator of Rent. The film follows Jon (Academy Award nominee and Tony Award winner Andrew Garfield), a young theater composer who’s waiting tables at a New York City diner in 1990 while writing what he hopes will be the next great American musical. Days before he’s due to showcase his work in a make-or-break performance, Jon is feeling the pressure from everywhere.

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MOVIES SHOWING IN WESTCHESTER Co, NY- AND IN FAIRFIELD Co CT-

A) JACOB BURNS FILM CENTER IN PLEASANTVILLE, NY-

1) BELFAST– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “BELFAST is a movie straight from Branagh’s own experience. A nine-year-old boy must chart a path towards adulthood through a world that has suddenly turned upside down. His stable and loving community and everything he thought he understood about life is changed forever but joy, laughter, music and the formative magic of the movies remain.”

11/10/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) THE POWER OF THE DOG– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1925 Montana, the relationship between brothers Phil and George — rich ranchers who are polar opposites — sours when George weds a young widow and Phil begins a relentless crusade to torment his sibling’s wife and her bookish teenage son.”

11/18/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

3) JULIA-  2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “JULIA tells the story of the legendary cookbook author and television superstar who changed the way Americans think about food, television, and even about women. Using never-before-seen archival footage, personal photos, first-person narratives, and cutting-edge, mouth-watering food cinematography, the film traces Julia Child’s surprising path, from her struggles to create and publish the revolutionary Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961) which has sold more than 2.5 million copies to date, to her empowering story of a woman who found fame in her 50s, and her calling as an unlikely television sensation.”

11/13/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

5) THE FRENCH DISPATCH– Limited  screenings.

MOVIES SHOWING IN DANBURY, CT-

A) AMC–

1) HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) KING RICHARD– 2021. “In this fact-based drama, Compton, California’s public tennis courts serve as unlikely training grounds for siblings Venus and Serena Williams as their determined father begins grooming them early for professional careers.”

3) JULIA- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “JULIA tells the story of the legendary cookbook author and television superstar who changed the way Americans think about food, television, and even about women. Using never-before-seen archival footage, personal photos, first-person narratives, and cutting-edge, mouth-watering food cinematography, the film traces Julia Child’s surprising path, from her struggles to create and publish the revolutionary Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961) which has sold more than 2.5 million copies to date, to her empowering story of a woman who found fame in her 50s, and her calling as an unlikely television sensation.”

11/13/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

MOVIES SHOWING IN PALM BEACH Co., FL

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH- (Fri–Sunday)

1)  HOUSE OF GUCCI– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire. When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder.”

11/24/21- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) KING RICHARD– 2021. “In this fact-based drama, Compton, California’s public tennis courts serve as unlikely training grounds for siblings Venus and Serena Williams as their determined father begins grooming them early for professional careers.”

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

C) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) BELFAST– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “BELFAST is a movie straight from Branagh’s own experience. A nine-year-old boy must chart a path towards adulthood through a world that has suddenly turned upside down. His stable and loving community and everything he thought he understood about life is changed forever but joy, laughter, music and the formative magic of the movies remain.”

11/10/21- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) JULIA- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “JULIA tells the story of the legendary cookbook author and television superstar who changed the way Americans think about food, television, and even about women. Using never-before-seen archival footage, personal photos, first-person narratives, and cutting-edge, mouth-watering food cinematography, the film traces Julia Child’s surprising path, from her struggles to create and publish the revolutionary Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961) which has sold more than 2.5 million copies to date, to her empowering story of a woman who found fame in her 50s, and her calling as an unlikely television sensation.”

11/13/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) KURT VONNEGUT: UNSTUCK IN TIME- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. –  KURT VONNEGUT: UNSTUCK IN TIME is a dazzling, worthy tribute to Vonnegut and a compelling introduction for the uninitiated. The feature documentary — the first of its kind on Vonnegut — is a deep, immersive dive into the author’s upbringing and his creative output.

4) SPENCER– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Princess Diana’s exit from Britain’s royal family is recounted in this historical drama set at the queen’s Sandringham estate during the 1991 Christmas holidays, where Diana makes the fateful decision to leave Prince Charles.”

11/9/21- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

5) LOVE IS LOVE IS LOVE– Poor reviews. Limited screenings

D) THE STONZEK THEATER IN LAKE WORTH-

1) LUZZU– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Because of dwindling harvests and government restrictions, Maltese fisherman Jesmark is struggling to feed his family. Backed into a corner when his boat breaks down, he joins a black-market fishing operation as his priorities change.”

10/16/21- Excellent reviews for this drama from Malta. TRDB. Friday–Sunday

MAY 13, 2021

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) IN OUR MOTHERS’ GARDENS– Netflix

2) THE BOY FROM MEDELLIN– Prime

___________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) IN OUR MOTHERS’ GARDENS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Filmmaker Shantrelle P. Lewis examines the complex and often humorous relationship between Black mothers and daughters.”

5/8/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5/9/21- This documentary was very creative and informative. At times I found it a bit wordy and at times I did lose interest. TRDB.

2) THE BOY FROM MEDELLIN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Colombian J Balvin — the Prince of Reggaeton — returns to his native Medellín for the most important concert of his career. But as citizens take to the streets to protest President Iván Duque’s policies, the singer must reassess his own politics.”

5/8/21- Fair to good reviews for  documentary. TRDB.

5/10/21- This documentary was well done and captured the conflict that many performing artists must feel. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC- + or – Streaming

1) MINARI- 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A tender and sweeping story about what roots us, Minari follows a Korean-American family that moves to a tiny Arkansas farm in search of their own American Dream. The family home changes completely with the arrival of their sly, foul-mouthed, but incredibly loving grandmother. ”

Netflix had this to say– The patriarch of a Korean family living in Michigan during the 1980s wants to be a farmer in Arkansas, but his family experiences severe culture shock as they try to assimilate and become part of the community.

2/11/21- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB. 

____________________________________________________________________

NEW MOVIES- In Theaters or Streaming

1) STATE FUNERAL– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “The seismic shock of Joseph Stalin’s sudden death in 1953 is captured in this engrossing documentary that incorporates newly unearthed archival footage of the elaborate official tributes, along with the endless parade of mourners.”

5/8/21- Very good reviews with a few critics complaining about the length of this documentary. (2 hours and 15 minutes) TRDB. At the Film Forum

2) THE BOY FROM MEDELLIN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Colombian J Balvin — the Prince of Reggaeton — returns to his native Medellín for the most important concert of his career. But as citizens take to the streets to protest President Iván Duque’s policies, the singer must reassess his own politics.”

5/8/21- Fair to good reviews for  documentary. TRDB. On Amazon Prime Video

5/10/21- I think that this documentary was fairly good and captured well the conflict that many artists must feel. TRDB.

3) PINK SKIES AHEAD– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “After wild child Winona drops out of college, she ends up back home with her parents. Feeling overwhelmed, she visits her childhood doctor and is diagnosed with an anxiety disorder — a notion she denies until her life begins to fall apart.”

5/8/21- Very good reviews for this drama/comedy. TRDB. On MTV

4) CITIZEN PENN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a 7.0 earthquake hits Haiti in 2010, actor and activist Sean Penn flies to the island nation to help with recovery. This documentary follows the efforts of Penn and his disaster relief organization, which is still going more than a decade later.”

5/8/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Discovery+

5) THE WATER MAN– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his mom suffering from leukemia, 11-year-old Gunner buries himself in books hoping to find a cure. Instead, he discovers a route to immortality through the mythic Water Man, sending Gunner and a friend off to the woods to find the fabled spirit.”

5/8/21- Good reviews for this adventure/drama. TRDB. In Theaters and on streaming (Vudu)

6) SILO– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Inspired by true events, SILO follows a harrowing day in an American farm town. Disaster strikes when teenager Cody Rose is entrapped in a 50-foot-tall grain bin. When the corn turns to quicksand, family, neighbors and first responders must put aside their differences to rescue Cody from drowning in the crop that has sustained their community for generations.”

5/8/21- Poor reviews  with a few positive ones as well. TRDB. In Theaters and Virtual Cinemas (Prime Video)

7) PAPER SPIDERS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “After losing her father, high school senior Melanie grows closer to her mother than ever. But their relationship becomes strained as Melanie’s paranoid mom begins to believe their new next-door neighbor is stalking her.”

5/8/21- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB. In Theaters and other streaming platforms (Prime, Vudu)

8) THE COLUMNIST– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Infuriated by the death threats and obscene abuse she receives regularly online, newspaper columnist Femke Boot decides it’s time to exact revenge. Much to her surprise, she finds that a sudden act of violence liberates her imagination.”

5/8/21- Fair reviews for this drama. TRDB. On Streaming platforms (Vudu)

9) QUEEN MARIE– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in the aftermath of World War I, this fact-based drama follows Queen Marie of Romania — a nation devastated by the conflict — as she attends the Paris peace talks to lobby for worldwide recognition of an enlarged Romania.”

5/8/21- Just fair reviews. TRDB. Various streaming Platforms

10) THE PAPER TIGERS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Decades past their glory days as teenage kung-fu fighters, three former best friends reunite after their martial-arts master is murdered. Putting their differences aside, the trio resolves to avenge the killing at all costs.”

5/8/21- Excellent reviews by the critics and fair ones by audiences. TRDB. In Theaters and streaming platforms (Vudu)

11) IN OUR MOTHERS’ GARDENS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Filmmaker Shantrelle P. Lewis examines the complex and often humorous relationship between Black mothers and daughters.”

5/8/21- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Netflix.

5/9/21- This documentary was very creative and informative. At times I found it a bit wordy and at times I did lose interest. TRDB.

1) MONSTER– Violent with bloody images and I’ll pass on it. On Netflix.

2) WRATH OF MAN– Violent and not for me. In Theaters

MOVIES IN PALM BEACH COUNTY AT THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) FOUR GOOD DAYS– 2021. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In an emotional journey based on a true story by Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post writer Eli Saslow, 31-year-old Molly begs her estranged mother Deb for help fighting a fierce battle against the demons that have derailed her life.”

5/4/21- Awful reviews by the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) THE HUMAN FACTOR– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “With unprecedented access to the foremost American negotiators, THE HUMAN FACTOR is the behind-the-scenes story from the last 25 years, of how the United States came within reach of pulling off the impossible — securing peace between Israel and its neighbors.”

1/22/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) THE TRUFFLE HUNTERS– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in Northern Italy, this fascinating documentary focuses on a cadre of aging men and their trained canine companions, who search the forest at night for the white Alba truffle — an elusive delicacy that’s impossible to cultivate.”

3/6/21- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) US KIDS– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Centering on several survivors of the 2018 mass shooting at a Parkland, Florida, high school, this documentary follows their fight for stricter gun control as they travel the country to deliver the message, while still contending with their grief.”

10/30/20- Good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) TOGETHER TOGETHER– 2021. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 26-year-old Anna agrees to be a gestational surrogate for middle-aged bachelor Matt — who’s eager to be a dad — she’s looking for a way to finance her college degree. But she gets much more as the two develop an unexpected friendship.”

4/22/21- Excellent reviews. TRDB. Limited showings

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY- At the Jacob Burns Film Center

OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL WEEKS THE FILM CENTER WILL SHOW MOVIES TO

“CATCH US UP” WITH MOVIES FROM THE LAST YEAR. IT WILL NOT BE THE USUAL SCHEDULE WHERE MOVIES SHOW FROM FRIDAY TO THURSDAY.

I’LL TRY TO KEEP YOU CURRENT BUT YOU MIGHT LOOK UP THE BURNS SCHEDULE AT burnsfilmcenter.org

THE FOLLOWING ARE FOR THIS WEEK– AND THEY ALL HAD EXCELLENT REVIEWS

1) MINARI

2) THE TRUFFLE HUNTERS–

3) NOMADLAND-

APRIL 18, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

MY FAMILY WAS VISITING FOR A WEEK SO I DID NOT GET OUT TO THE MOVIES. THERE IS NOTHING REALLY SPECIAL OUT THERE AT THE MOMENT BUT IT PROMISES TO IMPROVE NEXT WEEK.

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) OF FATHERS AND SONS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Putting his life at risk, Syrian director Talal Derki returns to his war-torn homeland and spends two years living with a family of radical jihadists who erroneously believe he’s working on a film supporting the rise of the Islamic caliphate.”

11/16/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4/15/19- The fact that this movie was made at all is the real issue here. Otherwise I found it repetitive and boring since the salient points were made early in the movie. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) RUST CREEK– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “College student Sawyer Scott is seemingly on the fast track to success when a wrong turn on the way to a job interview leaves her stuck in Kentucky’s backwoods. Soon finding herself with two outlaws on her trail, she needs all her cunning to survive.”

1/4/19- Decent reviews by the critics and distinctly poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) DESTROYER- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Early in her police career, Det. Erin Bell’s cover is blown while infiltrating a California gang. Sixteen years later, the leader of that gang — who escaped during the failed operation — resurfaces, and Erin is determined to take him down.”

12/25/18- Fairly good reviews. Most said that Nicole Kidman was great. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) HER SMELL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite her stardom, punk rock singer Becky Something is living out a personal mission of destruction fueled by drugs and a volatile temperament that threatens to alienate everyone she knows, including her bandmates.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews in general with a few negatives as well. I’ll give it a try. TRDB.

2) SATAN & ADAM– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engaging documentary charts the story of an improbable pairing between black guitarist Sterling Magee, aka “Mr. Satan,” and white harmonica player Adam Gussow, who lived out their musical ambitions jamming together for years on Harlem sidewalks.”

4/12/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) WILD NIGHTS WITH EMILY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “An unknown side of poet Emily Dickinson — long characterized as a shy spinster — emerges in this sly, sometimes surreal dramedy that recounts her determination to succeed in the literary world and her romantic relationship with her sister-in-law.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) DOGMAN- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In his rundown beach community in Southern Italy, dog groomer Marcello gets along with everyone — even local bully (and ex-boxer) Simone. But when covering up for Simone lands Marcello in jail, he’s itching for vengeance when he’s released.”

4/12/19- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

5) GIRLS OF THE SUN– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. ” Kurdish attorney Bahar sees her life upended when Islamic extremists capture her and her son during a raid on her village. After escaping, Bahar — hoping to find her son — becomes the leader of an all-female combat unit bent on retaking the town.”

4/12/19- Awful reviews by the critics but excellent ones by audiences. It does sound interesting and I would definitely give it a try. TRDB.

6) THE MOST DANGEROUS YEAR– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the mother of a transgender 5-year-old, filmmaker Vlada Knowlton brings firsthand knowledge to this topical documentary that follows a group of Washington state parents’ efforts to protect the civil rights of their transgender offspring.”

4/12/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7) TEEN SPIRIT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Underneath 17-year-old Violet’s shy exterior lurks a pop star just itching to get out. But the chances of that happening in her tiny Isle of Wight hometown seem remote — until a former opera star takes her under his wing.”

4/12/19- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) MASTER Z: IP MAN LEGACY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “After his defeat by Ip Man, martial-arts expert Cheung Tin-chi gives up the Wing Chun discipline and vows to live quietly in Hong Kong with his son. But he soon runs afoul of a triad and is pulled back into a life of violence.”

4/12/19- Good reviews for this action drama. Personally, I’ll skip it. TRDB.

2) LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This noirish drama follows moody drifter Luo Hongwu as he returns to his provincial hometown and is quickly flooded with memories of an enigmatic lost love, prompting him to embark on a search for her.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews from the critics and weak ones from audiences. One reviewer called it “all style and no substance.” TRDB.

OTHERS-

1) “MISSING LINK” is not my type of movie

2) “HELLBOY”- Awful reviews

3) “LITTLE”- Received really poor reviews

4) “MARY MAGDALENE” has really poor reviews

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) TEEN SPIRIT- Danbury, Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Underneath 17-year-old Violet’s shy exterior lurks a pop star just itching to get out. But the chances of that happening in her tiny Isle of Wight hometown seem remote — until a former opera star takes her under his wing.”

4/12/19- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

2) WILD NIGHTS WITH EMILY– Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “An unknown side of poet Emily Dickinson — long characterized as a shy spinster — emerges in this sly, sometimes surreal dramedy that recounts her determination to succeed in the literary world and her romantic relationship with her sister-in-law.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) AMAZING GRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “More than 40 years after Aretha Franklin delivered two spellbinding nights of gospel music at a Baptist church in Los Angeles, this documentary — long shelved because of technical problems — takes viewers back to the legendary concerts.”

12/7/18- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4)  HER SMELL– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite her stardom, punk rock singer Becky Something is living out a personal mission of destruction fueled by drugs and a volatile temperament that threatens to alienate everyone she knows, including her bandmates.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews in general with a few negatives as well. I’ll give it a try. TRDB.

5) HIGH LIFE– Jacob Burns, Bethel. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In an effort to harness a black hole’s power, a crew of convicts is sent into space. But soon, isolation and an atmosphere of despair lead to conflict and death among the crew, leaving only quiet Monte and his baby daughter to continue the mission.”

4/17/19- A Sci-fi movie that doesn’t sound at all interesting to me but got good reviews from the critics along with poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) DIANE–  Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Widowed and in her 70s, Diane spends her days helping others: feeding the homeless, caring for ailing friends and trying to reach her drug-addicted son. But as her obligations dwindle, Diane reluctantly confronts her past — and her mortality.”

3/29/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) BACKYARD WILDERNESS IN 3D-

REPEATS-

1) THE MUSTANG– Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews.

2) TRANSIT– Clearview 100. Excellent reviews.

3) THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD– Danbury. Very good reviews.

4) THE PUBLIC– Bethel. Weak reviews.

5) HOTEL MUMBAI– Bethel. Weak reviews.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) MARIA BY CALLAS– Very good review

2) THE MUSTANG– Very good reviews

3) PETERLOO– Weak reviews

4) THE BEST OF ENEMIES– Fair reviews at best

5) THE CHAPERONE– Poor reviews

6) THE AFTERMATH– Poor reviews

7) TRANSIT– Very good reviews

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

Same as Lake Worth above except not showing “Aftermath” there

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) ASH IS PUREST WHITE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a young gang attacks her mobster boyfriend, Bin, loyal Qiao uses his illegal gun to save him — landing her in prison for five years. But after she’s released, Qiao finds that Bin has moved on without her, and she sets off to track him down.”

3/15/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE INVISIBLES– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This riveting docudrama follows four resourceful Jewish youths living under Nazi rule in 1943 Berlin, where they elude the roundup of Jews by taking cover in safe houses and freely walking the streets, virtually hiding in plain sight.”

1/25/19- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

D) THELIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) DIANE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Widowed and in her 70s, Diane spends her days helping others: feeding the homeless, caring for ailing friends and trying to reach her drug-addicted son. But as her obligations dwindle, Diane reluctantly confronts her past — and her mortality.”

3/29/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) PETERLOO– Weak reviews for this historical drama. 

3) THE CHAPERONE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the early 20th century, two women take the trip of a lifetime when they travel from conservative Kansas to cosmopolitan New York City. While young Louise seeks fame as a dancer and actress, her chaperone, Norma, wants to reconnect with her past.”

3/29/19- Weak early reviews. TRDB.

4) TRANSIT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “As German troops near Paris, concentration camp refugee Georg escapes to Marseille, hoping to board a ship bound for safety by assuming the identity of a dead man whose papers Georg possesses. But things change when he meets a mysterious young woman.”

3/1/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

APRIL 25, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SEND AN ISSUE NEXT WEEK SO THIS WEEK’S EDITION WILL INCLUDE INFORMATION FOR THE NEXT 2 WEEKS WHEN POSSIBLE–

1) THE MUSTANG– At the Theater

2) THE CAPTAIN– Netflix Disc.

3) AT ETERNITY’S GATE– Netflix Disc.

4) TRANSIT– At the Theater

5) THE INVISIBLES– At the Theater

6) MARIA BY CALLAS– At the Theater

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) THE MUSTANG– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In jail — as he was on the outside — convict Roman Coleman is trapped in a life of violence. But when he starts working with wild mustangs as a part of a prisoner rehabilitation program, he slowly discovers his humanity.”

3/15/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4/18/19- I liked the movie and loved the scenes of the wild horses. TRDB.

2) TRANSIT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “As German troops near Paris, concentration camp refugee Georg escapes to Marseille, hoping to board a ship bound for safety by assuming the identity of a dead man whose papers Georg possesses. But things change when he meets a mysterious young woman.”

3/1/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4/23/19- Very well done and I enjoyed it very much. A bit confusing for a while. TRDB.

3) THE INVISIBLES– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This riveting docudrama follows four resourceful Jewish youths living under Nazi rule in 1943 Berlin, where they elude the roundup of Jews by taking cover in safe houses and freely walking the streets, virtually hiding in plain sight.”

1/25/19- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4/24/19- I enjoyed this movie and at the same time learned lots of facts about these brave people and what they endured. TRDB.

4) MARIA BY CALLAS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking advantage of personal letters, vintage interviews and previously unseen footage, this extensive documentary recounts the life and career of opera diva Maria Callas, capturing her superlative talent and her turbulent romantic life.”

11/3/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4/24/19- An excellent documentary. I got to know the subject and the singing was great. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE CAPTAIN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this black-and-white drama set during World War II’s last days, a 19-year-old German deserter — starving and desperate — dons a scavenged Nazi captain’s uniform and becomes increasingly intoxicated by his new authority.”

7/27/18-  Fair reviews by the critics and excellent ones by audiences. TRDB.

4/21/19- A bit long but it held my interest and shows what power can do. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) AT ETERNITY’S GATE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This dramatized biopic recounts the last days in the turbulent and tragically brief life of master Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, who comes to realize that his brilliant work will never be recognized as such during his lifetime.”

11/16/18- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

4/22/19- A very interesting biopic with beautiful scenery and a good understanding of the subject. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) ARTIC- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his plane crashes in the Arctic, Danish explorer Overgård hunkers down to await rescue. But after a helicopter promising salvation also crashes — leaving its copilot badly hurt — Overgård must decide whether to begin a long trek to find help.”

2) EVERYBODY KNOWS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “With her kids in tow, Laura travels from her adopted Argentinean home to her native Spain to attend her sister’s nuptials, anticipating a joyful reunion. But things turn sour when Laura’s teen daughter vanishes and long-kept secrets begin to surface.”

2/8/19- Weak reviews from critics and audiences. I’d see this just to look at Penelope Cruz. TRDB.

3) TO DUST– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Struggling to accept his wife’s sudden death, Hasidic cantor Shmuel believes he must understand how her body will decompose. Enlisting the aid of a biology professor, Shmuel begins the blasphemous act of scientific investigation.”

2/8/19- Excellent reviews for this strange sounding drama. TRDB.

4) BIRDS OF PASSAGE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This well-crafted crime drama charts the roots of the Colombian drug trade as a tight-knit indigenous family discovers a golden opportunity to sell large quantities of marijuana to America’s hippie generation in the 1970s.”

2/13/19- Excellent reviews for this foreign drama. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) PENGUINS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Like millions of his kind, Adélie penguin Steve is spending spring in Antarctica looking for love. But that’s just the beginning: To start a family with his life partner, he must build a nest in an environment where peril constantly lurks.”

4/18/19- Very good reviews by the critics and fair to good ones by audiences. TRDB.

2) BREAKTHROUGH– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, 14-year-old John Smith falls through a frozen lake and is pronounced dead after 27 minutes of CPR fail to revive him. But his mother is having none of it and prays loudly at John’s bedside — until his heart begins”

4/18/19- Poor reviews by the critics and OK ones by audiences. TRDB.

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) RED JOAN– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Loosely inspired by a true story, this dramatized biopic shifts between two eras as it recounts the tale of Joan Stanley, a longtime British spy for the KGB who sees her peaceful suburban retirement abruptly shattered when she’s arrested for treason.”

4/19/19- Terrible reviews. TRDB.

2) WILD NIGHTS WITH EMILY– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “An unknown side of poet Emily Dickinson — long characterized as a shy spinster — emerges in this sly, sometimes surreal dramedy that recounts her determination to succeed in the literary world and her romantic relationship with her sister-in-law.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) TEEN SPIRIT– Danbury. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Underneath 17-year-old Violet’s shy exterior lurks a pop star just itching to get out. But the chances of that happening in her tiny Isle of Wight hometown seem remote — until a former opera star takes her under his wing.”

4/12/19- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BREAKTHROUGH– Danbury. Good reviews.

2) THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD– Danbury. Very good reviews.

3) THE MUSTANG– Bethel, Clearview 100. I liked it very much

4) TRANSIT– Clearview 100. A very interesting and enjoyable movie

5) AMAZING GRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Great reviews for this documentary

6) HIGH LIFE– Jacob Burns. A Sci-fi movie that doesn’t sound at all interesting to me but got good reviews from the critics along with poor ones from audiences.

7) DIANE– Jacob Burns. Very good reviews.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THE BEST OF ENEMIES– Mixed reviews- more poor than good

2) SUNSET- Weak reviews by both critics and audiences.

3) THE CHAPERONE– Weak reviews

4) THE MUSTANG– I enjoyed it

5) TRANSIT- I liked it very much

6) THE SHOPLIFTERS– Very good reviews but I did not care for it

7) MARIA BY CALLAS- Very good reviews and I plan to see it

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- see “above” for descriptions

1) THE BEST OF ENEMIES-

2) THE CHAPERONE–

3) SUNSET–

4) THE MUSTANG–

5) THE SHOPLIFTERS

6) MARIA BY CALLAS–

C) THE LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) DIANE– Very good reviews

2) SUNSET– Weak reviews by both critics and audiences. TRDB.

3) CHAPERONE– Weak reviews

4) TRANSIT– I liked it very much

D) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE

1) HER SMELL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite her stardom, punk rock singer Becky Something is living out a personal mission of destruction fueled by drugs and a volatile temperament that threatens to alienate everyone she knows, including her bandmates.”

4/12/19- Very good reviews in general with a few negatives as well. I’ll give it a try. TRDB.

2) THE RAMEN SHOP– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Japanese ramen chef Masato Yamamoto lost his mother at age 10, so when he comes across an old notebook of hers after his father dies, he travels to Singapore — where he was born — to piece together his family’s history.”

3/22/19- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

MARCH 7, 3019

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME?- Netflix Disc.

2) LETTERS FROM BAGHDAD– Netflix Disc.

3) HEADING HOME- THE TALE OF TEAM ISRAEL- At the Theater

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) HEADING HOME: THE TALE OF TEAM ISRAEL– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “HEADING HOME: THE TALE OF TEAM ISRAEL is the David-and-Goliath story of Israel’s national baseball team as it competes for the first time in the World Baseball Classic.”

3/5/19- I liked the movie and I especially enjoyed the various interviews with the players and their views about being Jewish and their relationship with Israel. TRDB.  

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, author Lee Israel strikes gold in the 1970s and ’80s with a series of successful celebrity biographies. But when tastes shift and her demons begin to disrupt her writing, she turns to forgery to support herself.”

10/19/18- Excellent reviews for this comedy/drama. TRDB.

3/1/19- I really enjoyed this movie very much and highly recommend it. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) DIVIDE AND CONQUER- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “From producing “The Mike Douglas Show,” Roger Ailes moved on to became a top Republican strategist and the head of Fox News before being derailed by sexual harassment accusations, as chronicled in this revealing documentary.”

12/7/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) GREEN BOOK– A great movie. Don’t miss it

3) PIERCING– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Haunted by an impulse to kill his infant, new father Reed decides to get rid of his homicidal demons by killing a prostitute instead. But his intended victim proves more than a match, and the two are soon locked in a battle of wills.”

2/1/19- Fair reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences. You can safely miss this one. TRDB.

4) TYREL– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Tyler is invited to an all-male birthday bash at a cabin in the Catskills, he doesn’t realize that he’ll be the only black man there. But as the weekend party wears on, Tyler begins to feel increasingly out of place.”

12/5/18- Fair reviews at best but it sounds interesting to me. TRDB.

5) THE CHARMER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix “Desperate to avoid deportation by securing Danish citizenship, Iranian migrant Esmail is looking for a woman who can expedite his plan. But when he falls for Sarah — who sees through his charms — Esmail’s past comes back to haunt him.”

12/5/18- Very good reviews for this Iranian drama. TRDB.

12/11/18- I found the movie both sensitive and suspenseful. Definitely worth seeing. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) TRANSIT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “As German troops near Paris, concentration camp refugee Georg escapes to Marseille, hoping to board a ship bound for safety by assuming the identity of a dead man whose papers Georg possesses. But things change when he meets a mysterious young woman.”

3/1/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Against all the odds, a thirteen year old boy in Malawi invents an unconventional way to save his family and village from famine. Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba.”

3/1/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) JOSEPH PULITZER: VOICE OF THE PEOPLE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “At a time when the news media is being maligned and undermined, this well-crafted documentary recounts the story of transformational publisher Joseph Pulitzer, who took on a popular president (Teddy Roosevelt) to ensure freedom of the press.”

3/1/19- Just 3 reviews so far– 2 up and 1 down for this documentary. TRDB.

4) GIANT LITTLE ONES– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this coming-of-age drama, best friends Franky Winter and Ballas Kohl — both popular students and athletes — are thick as thieves until an amorous encounter at a 17th birthday party throws them into turmoil.”

3/1/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5) SHARKWATER EXTINCTION– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Continuing the crusade of its 2006 predecessor “Sharkwater,” this documentary sequel details the massive effect of the illegal shark fin industry, which has contributed to a 90 percent decline in the global shark population over the past 30 years.”

3/1/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) APOLLO 11- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Apollo 11 mission that took Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to the moon comes to life again in this documentary that uses a wealth of NASA materials — including recordings of in-flight conversations — to create an immersive experience.”

3/1/19- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7) WOMAN AT WAR– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Believing that the aluminum industry is destroying the Icelandic environment, middle-aged Halla begins waging a secret eco-war to protect the landscape. But her crusade is interrupted when she gets a chance to fulfill her dream of adopting a child.”

3/1/19- Excellent reviews from all sources. TRDB.

8) CLIMAX– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the outskirts of Paris, 20 young dancers gather at a closed boarding school for three days of intensive rehearsals. But at the after-party, things descend into chaos when the punch bowl is spiked with LSD.”

3/1/19- Fair reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) GRETA– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When young Frances returns a handbag she found on the New York City subway to its owner, lonely widow Greta, she gains a new friend. But their relationship begins to take a sinister turn as Greta becomes obsessed with Frances.”

2/27/19- Early reviews are really bad. TRDB.

2) THE IRON ORCHARD– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on the book of the same name, this epic drama follows ambitious wildcatter Jim McNeely, who’s determined to surmount the harsh challenges of the West Texas oil business and rise to the top of the industry in the late 1930s.”

3/1/19- Terrible reviews by the critics but it was well received by audiences. TRDB.

3) MAPPLETHORPE- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engaging biopic charts the life and legacy of controversial photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, who sends shock waves through the modern art world with his provocative exhibits before his untimely death in 1989.”

3/1/19- Poor reviews from the critics but OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) SAINT JUDY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This well-crafted biopic follows immigration lawyer Judy Wood as she takes up the case of an Afghani woman persecuted by the Taliban for starting a school for girls. In the process, Wood leads a fight that will change U.S. asylum laws for women.”

3/1/19- Generally poor reviews. TRDB.

5) THE WEDDING GUEST– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This propulsive, globetrotting thriller from acclaimed director Michael Winterbottom is a breathless tour through the shadowy underworlds and hidden realms of Pakistan and India.”

3/1/19- Poor reviews. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) APOLLO 11– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Apollo 11 mission that took Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to the moon comes to life again in this documentary that uses a wealth of NASA materials — including recordings of in-flight conversations — to create an immersive experience.”

3/1/19- Great reviews for this documentary.

2) WOMAN AT WAR– Jacob Burns. 2019.

3) THE COMPETITION– Jacob Burns. 2019.

REPEATS-

1) EVERYBODY KNOWS– Jacob Burns. Bethel, Clearview 100. Weak reviews from critics and audiences. I’d see this just to look at Penelope Cruz.

2) THE WEDDING GUEST– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Poor reviews.

3) GREEN BOOK– Bethel, Danbury. Great movie and a must-see.

4) TO DUST– Clearview 100. Excellent reviews for this strange sounding drama.

5) COLD WAR– Clearview 100. I was not impressed by this movie.

6) THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD– Jacob Burns.

7) A STAR IS BORN– Danbury.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) WHO WILL WRITE OUR HISTORY– Very good reviews

2) THE INVISIBLES– Very good reviews

3) THE UPSIDE– OK reviews

4) EVERYBODY KNOWS– Weak reviews from critics and audiences. I’d see this just to look at Penelope Cruz.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) WHO WILL WRITE OUR HISTORY– Very good reviews

2) NEVER LOOK AWAY- OK reviews for this very long drama.

3) THE LAST RESORT– Very good reviews

4) HEADING HOME- THE TALE OF TEAM ISRAEL– I liked it.

5) EVERYBODY KNOWS– Weak reviews from critics and audiences. I’d see this just to look at Penelope Cruz.

6) CAPERNAUM– (limited screenings) – I liked it

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) THE COMPETITION– 2019. This immersive documentary goes behind the scenes at renowned Parisian filmmaking academy La Fémis, detailing the artistic philosophy and methods used to select 40 new students for the program each year.”

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) WHO WILL WRITE OUR HISTORY– Very good reviews

2) THE LAST RESORT– Good reviews

3) THE INVISIBLES– Very good reviews

4) NEVER LOOK AWAY– Good reviews for this very long drama

5) RUBEN BRANDT, COLLECTOR–

JANUARY 24, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

A VERY SLOW MOVIE WEEK FOR ME

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

1) FYRE: THE GREATEST PARTY THAT NEVER HAPPENED– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An exclusive behind the scenes look at the infamous unraveling of the Fyre music festival. Created by Billy McFarland and rapper Ja Rule, Fyre was promoted as a luxury music festival on a private island in the Bahamas featuring bikini-clad supermodels, A-List musical performances and posh amenities.”

1/18/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

1/22/19- So stupid that I turned it off quickly. Please let me know if I should have watched more. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) THE WIFE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Great artists’ spouses often sacrifice their dreams for their mates’ careers, and Joan Castleman — a gifted writer — is no exception. But with hubby about to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature, Joan’s long-simmering resentment begins to emerge.”

8/15/18- Excellent reviews in general but a few critics said that the movie was carried by Glenn Close. TRDB.

8/31/18- I enjoyed this movie very much. Both leads were excellent and the story was interesting as well. TRDB. 

2) THE HATE U GIVE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though Starr Carter lives in a lower-income black neighborhood, she attends a largely white prep school. When she sees a longtime friend shot by a white police officer, Starr finds herself caught between two worlds as she tries to do the right thing.’

10/4/18- Excellent reviews!! TRDB.

3) STUDIO 54- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This riveting documentary charts the rise and fall of New York City’s Studio 54, the nightclub of choice for countless celebrities in the late 1970s. But the venue’s three years of glory came to an end when its founders were indicted for tax evasion.”

10/4/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) BOY ERASED– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Nineteen-year-old Jared is far from ready to tell his parents that he’s gay, but they find out anyway, forcing him to make a choice: attend a “conversion therapy” program or be shunned by his family and Baptist community.”

11/2/18- Very good reviews by the critics and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

11/28/18- Another good movie about what it’s like being gay and the folly of “conversion therapy.” TRDB. 

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) WHO WILL WRITE OUR HISTORY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this dramatized documentary, a crew of Polish actors joins readers Joan Allen and Adrien Brody to bring to life the Oyneg Shabes Archive, a written and photographic record of life in World War II’s Nazi-created Warsaw Ghetto.”

1/18/19- Excellent reviews for this dramatized documentary. TRDB.

2) FYRE: THE GREATEST PARTY THAT NEVER HAPPENED– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An exclusive behind the scenes look at the infamous unraveling of the Fyre music festival. Created by Billy McFarland and rapper Ja Rule, Fyre was promoted as a luxury music festival on a private island in the Bahamas featuring bikini-clad supermodels, A-List musical performances and posh amenities.”

1/18/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) ADULT LIFE SKILLS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Pushing 30 and determined to avoid adulthood, Anna lives in her mom’s garden shed and makes videos using her thumbs as characters. In time, however, she forms an unlikely bond with a reticent 8-year-old boy from her neighborhood.”

1/18/19- Fair reviews at best for this foreign comedy including some very good and some fairly poor. TRDB.

4) DON’T COME BACK FROM THE MOON– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the Southern California desert community of Bombay Beach, husbands are forsaking their families — leaving their wives in despair and their teenage offspring to fend for themselves as they try to come to grips with being abandoned.”

1/18/19- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) I HATE KIDS

2) THE STANDOFF AT SPARROW CREEK

3) AN ACCEPTABLE LOSS

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS- NONE

REPEATS-

1) COLD WAR– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews.

2) GREEN BOOK– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Excellent and a must-see.

3) IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Good reviews

4) ON THE BASIS OF SEX– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100.. I saw this movie and enjoyed it but not as much as RBG.

5) STAN & OLLIE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. G.ood reviews but and I’ll see it for sure

6) THE FAVOURITE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. Good reviews but of no interest to me

7) A STAR IS BORN– Danbury, Clearview 100 I liked it including a great Lady Gaga.

8) VICE– Danbury. I liked it as it infuriated me

9) FIRST MAN– I liked it. Danbury

10) BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY– I didn’t expect to like this but I did- very much so. Danbury.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) SERENITY– Terrible reviews

2) STAN & OLLIE– Very good reviews

3) ON THE BASIS OF SEX– I saw it and liked it

4) IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK– Very good reviews

5) GREEN BOOK– Excellent and a must-see

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- Same as Lake Worth above

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) TOUCH ME NOT- 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “TOUCH ME NOT follows the emotional journeys of Laura, Tómas and Christian, offering a deeply empathic insight into their lives. Craving for intimacy yet also deeply afraid of it, they work to overcome old patterns, defense mechanisms and taboos, to cut the cord and finally be free.”

1/11/19- This movie has half excellent reviews and half terrible reviews– very unusual and I’ll have to see it eventually. TRDB.

2) SINATRA IN PALM SPRINGS– Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Palm Springs, a small desert oasis 100 miles East of Los Angeles was Sinatra’s true home for 50 years. During his brief yet turbulent marriage to Ava Gardner his Palm Springs home was center stage. For the rest of his life, the Rancho Mirage compound on Frank Sinatra Drive, was the home he called “My Heaven”.

12/24/18- No reviews as yet. We’ll see. TRDB.

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) AN ACCEPTABLE LOSS– Terrible reviews by the critics. Audiences have liked it.

2) COLD WAR– Excellent reviews.

3) SHOPLIFTERS– Very good reviews.

4) STAN & OLLIE– Excellent reviews

5) THE WORLD BEFORE YOUR FEET– Excellent reviews.

6) FREE SOLO– I saw this and liked it. Very suspenseful and not to be confused with the movie “SOLO” that I enjoyed as well.

____________________________________________________________________

APRIL 26, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND PAST REVIEWS AT MY WEBSITE- www.thereeldrbob.com

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) FIRST MATCH– Netflix Streaming

2) KODACHROME– Netflix Streaming

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Emotionally scarred from his experiences as a Marine and an FBI agent, Joe earns a living by saving young women from sex-trafficking rings. But when he attempts to rescue a New York senator’s daughter from a bordello, things quickly get out of hand.”

4/6/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4/20/18- Violent and as far as I’m concerned, meaningless. I hated it!! TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) FIRST MATCH– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Raised in foster care, high schooler Monique tries to reconnect with her father, a ne’er-do-well ex-wrestler, when he’s released from prison. After getting nowhere, she joins the boys’ wrestling team at school to make her dad take notice of her.”

4/19/18- The movie was OK but the lead actress, who was wonderful, stole the show. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) BORG vs. McENROE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “BORG The 1980 Wimbledon final caps off this historical sports drama that chronicles the fierce rivalry between Björn Borg and John McEnroe, who — despite their contrasting temperaments — share strikingly similar psyches beneath the surface.”

4/11/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4/20/18- This movie left me cold in general and the tennis scenes were terrible. Contrast this to “Battle of the Sexes” that was most enjoyable and you’ve got a weak movie that was OK for some historical value. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) KODACHROME– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Kodak’s 2009 decision to stop manufacturing its popular Kodachrome film, Matt Ryder embarks on a road trip with his estranged dad — a famed photographer — to take four last rolls of the film to the only lab still developing it.”

4/20/18- Fair reviews for this movie. The premise seems interesting to me and I love road trips- I’ll see it.  TRDB.

4/22/18- I liked the movie– especially Ed Harris. Don’t turn it off until the movie is fully done as there are some very interesting photos during the credits. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MAY 1-

1) IN BETWEEN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in Tel Aviv, this engrossing drama follows a trio of independent-minded Palestinian women who develop a bond of solidarity as they share an apartment and struggle to balance the differing values of tradition and modernity.”

1/5/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE INSULT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “On a Beirut street undergoing repairs, a Lebanese Christian and a Palestinian refugee butt heads. When an insult is hurled, they end up in court, and the case triggers a nationwide debate that opens old wounds and could erupt into a political crisis.”

1/12/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2/21/18- An excellent drama about the Middle East and its hatreds. Also about the hidden power of women in the area. TRDB.

3) PLEASE STAND BY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Intent on submitting her 500-page script to a writing competition, autistic young Wendy sneaks away from her care home and heads for Hollywood. In hot pursuit is her caregiver, Scottie — who inspired Wendy to begin writing in the first place.”

1/26/18- Fair reviews by the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) NOSTALGIA– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this finely acted ensemble drama, a group of people who have all suffered a loss attempts to find comfort and connection through what remains: the artifacts that evoke shared memories.”

2/15/18- Weak reviews but this movie will probably appeal to some. TRDB.

5) BEFORE WE VANISH– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Sent to survey planet Earth, three aliens each take over a different human body and mind, harvesting the hosts’ memories, concepts and emotions to pave the way for a full-blown invasion — and the annihilation of humanity.”

2/2/18- Fairly good reviews from critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

6) IN THE FADE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “With her life upended by the death of her husband and son in a bomb attack, Katja Sekerci can only nurse her pain at first. But she soon becomes obsessed with the hunt for the perpetrators and the ensuing trial of the neo-Nazis accused of the crime.

12/27/17- Fair reviews by both critics and audiences. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) KODACHROME– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Kodak’s 2009 decision to stop manufacturing its popular Kodachrome film, Matt Ryder embarks on a road trip with his estranged dad — a famed photographer — to take four last rolls of the film to the only lab still developing it.”

4/20/18- Fair reviews for this movie. The premise seems interesting to me and I love road trips- I’ll see it. This movie can be streamed now from Netflix. TRDB.

4/22/18- I liked the movie– especially Ed Harris. Don’t turn it off until the movie is fully done as there are some very interesting photos during the credits. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) LOU ANDREAS-SALOME: THE AUDACITY TO BE FREE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1933, Lou Andreas-Salomé — one of the 20th century’s greatest intellectuals — recounts her life to a young scholar she allows into her home, detailing her relationships with philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, poet Rainer Maria Rilke and others.”

4/20/18- Fair reviews. TRDB.

3) AFTER AUSCHWITZ– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “For the six female Holocaust survivors profiled in this affecting documentary, liberation from the Nazi death camps was just the beginning. Emigrating to Los Angeles, they create new lives for themselves and eventually confront the past. “

4/20/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) BEYOND THE CLOUDS– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The paths of two siblings collide, when on the run from the cops after a drug bust. Amir a 19 year old peddler from Mumbai finds solitude in his past, meanwhile his estranged sister Tara, who in a bid to protect her brother lands up in jail. This catastrophic incident turns serendipitous for them, whose entire lives have been clouded by despair as unexpectedly the light shines on them from Beyond the Clouds! The film highlights the many facets of India intertwined with celebration of love & family!”

4/20/18- Fair reviews for this drama but I will still recommend it. TRDB.

5) LITTLE PINK HOUSE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, a small-town nurse becomes a national hero after daring to go up against corporate giant Pfizer in a fight to keep the homes in her blue-collar neighborhood from being bulldozed to accommodate redevelopment.”

4/20/18- Very good reviews with the notable exception of the NY Times. TRDB.

6) GODARD MON AMOUR– 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. ” During the making of one of his films, French film director Jean-Luc Godard falls in love with 17-year old actress Anne Wiazemsky and later marries her.”

4/20/18- Early reviews appear good. TRDB.

7) ZAMA- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the late 18th century, Magistrate Don Diego de Zama languishes in a regional office of the Spanish crown, awaiting a transfer to the city where his family lives. But as years pass and nothing happens, he joins a quest to pursue a notorious bandit.”

4/13/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

8) JEANNETTE: THE CHILDHOOD OF JOAN OF ARC– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Joan of Arc’s early life receives a rock ‘n’ roll treatment in this experimental musical that centers on the years — beginning at age 8 — leading up to the visions that sparked her fervent crusade to save France from British tyranny.”

4/12/18- Very good reviews by the critics but terrible ones from audiences. TRDB.

9) THIS IS OUR LAND- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this topical drama that shines a cautionary light on extremist politics, a popular small-town nurse is persuaded to run for election as a representative of France’s far-right party. But she slowly realizes her image is being cynically misused.”

4/20/18- Fair reviews but it sounded interesting to me. TRDB.

10) GRACE JONES: BLOODLIGHT AND BAMI– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Sophie Fiennes spent 10 years filming ageless “glamazon” Grace Jones to compile this fascinating portrait. Mixing performance footage with travelogue, the documentary follows Jones on a road trip across Jamaica as she reconnects with family.”

4/20/18- Very good reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THE RIDER– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Brady Blackburn’s singular focus on being a professional rodeo rider ends with a severe head injury sustained in competition, he suddenly faces the prospect of an entirely different life, with no inkling of how to begin.”

4/13/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and good ones by audiences. TRDB.

2) OH LUCY!- Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Tokyo office worker Setsuko Kawashima begins taking an English class, she cautiously comes out of her shell as she dons a blond wig, adopts a new persona and falls for her handsome tutor. When he suddenly disappears, she sets off to find him.”

3/2/18- Excellent reviews for this movie. TRDB.

3) GODARD MON AMOUR– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. ” During the making of one of his films, French film director Jean-Luc Godard falls in love with 17-year old actress Anne Wiazemsky and later marries her.”

4/20/18- Early reviews appear good. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BEIRUT– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews

2) FINAL PORTRAIT– Bethel. Good reviews by the critics and poor ones from audiences.

3) FINDING YOUR FEET– Bethel. Good reviews by the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I hated this movie

5) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Clearview 100. Good reviews but lot of questions as to its historical accuracy.

6) THE DEATH OF STALIN- Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews but it looked stupid to me.

7) LEAN ON PETE– Jacob Burns,, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Excellent reviews.

8) ISLE OF DOGS– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the German army occupies Paris in 1941, Jewish barber Roman Joffo realizes his family is in danger of detention and worse. Planning their escape to the “free zone” in southern France, he sends his youngest sons on the perilous trip by themselves.”

3/23/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Good reviews but questions about its historical accuracy.

3) THE LAST SUIT- (EL ULTIMO TRAJE)- 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. “Abraham Bursztein, an 88 years old Jewish tailor, runs away from Buenos Aires to Poland, where he proposes to find a friend who saved him from certain death at the end of World War II.”

 5) OH LUCY!- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Tokyo office worker Setsuko Kawashima begins taking an English class, she cautiously comes out of her shell as she dons a blond wig, adopts a new persona and falls for her handsome tutor. When he suddenly disappears, she sets off to find him.”

3/2/18- Excellent reviews for this movie. TRDB.

6) FINAL PORTRAIT– 2018.

Good reviews by the critics and poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

7) FINDING YOUR FEET–

Good reviews by the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the German army occupies Paris in 1941, Jewish barber Roman Joffo realizes his family is in danger of detention and worse. Planning their escape to the “free zone” in southern France, he sends his youngest sons on the perilous trip by themselves.”

3/23/18- Excellent reviews from critics and friends. TRDB.

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Good reviews but questions about its historical accuracy.

3) THE LAST SUIT- (EL ULTIMO TRAJE)-

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) ISMAEL’S GHOSTS- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “While preparing to shoot a movie about a diplomat’s life, director Ismaël Vuillard gets an unexpected visit from his long-dead lover Carlotta — which not only drives away his current partner but soon begins driving him out of his mind.”

3/23/18- Fair reviews from the critics and poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) DOUBLE LOVER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this erotic thriller, young psychiatric patient Chloé makes the mistake of falling in love with her therapist. But once she moves in with him, Chloé begins to believe that he’s concealing part of his life from her.”

2/13/18- Mixed reviews at best including some very good and some poor ones as well. TRDB.

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON

1) BYE BYE GERMANY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1946 Frankfurt, David Bermann and his Jewish friends long to flee to America, but first they need to earn the money to emigrate by selling linens door-to-door. Meanwhile, a dogged U.S. agent begins investigating David’s dubious wartime activities.”

4/24/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) A BAG OF MARBLES– Excellent reviews- from critics and friends

3) LEAN ON PETE– Very good reviews

4) THE LAST SUIT– I saw this and liked it very much

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

FEBRUARY 1, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND PAST ISSUES AT MY WEBSITE- www.thereeldrbob.com

There is NO On-Demand section this week

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE GOOD CATHOLIC– Netflix Streaming.

2) MR. ROOSEVELT- Netflix Streaming

3) BACK TO SCHOOL– My own DVD

_______________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_______________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE GOOD CATHOLIC– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Father Daniel loves his job as a small-town parish priest, but he’s shaken to the core when he finds himself attracted to a woman he meets in confession. Seeing the young cleric in a quandary, a pair of fellow priests attempts to guide him.”

9/8/17- Weak reviews by the critics but good ones from audiences. I’d give it a chance. TRDB.

1/28/18- I’ll side with audiences on this one. Certainly not a great movie but I did enjoy it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) MR. ROOSEVELT– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix “Texas native Emily is trying to make it as a comic in Los Angeles when she gets word from her ex that the cat they once shared is ailing. Hightailing it back to Austin, Emily finds the feline dead — and a new girlfriend ensconced in her former home.’

11/23/17- Very good reviews. TRDB.

1/28/18- I liked it very much. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) THE GIRL FROM THE SONG– 2017. About a bunch of Brits looking to find themselves head to the US to attend the “Burning Man” festival in Nevada.

1/29/18- A fair movie at best with a few redeeming qualities. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) BACK TO SCHOOL– Starring Rodney Dangerfield, a successful businessman who goes back to college.

1/29/18- A classic comedy. I hadn’t seen it in a few years and loved it all over again. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 6-

1) YEAR BY THE SEA- 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Search – DVD Netflix. “In this indie dramedy, wife and mother Joan sets a new course for herself when she opts not to accompany her husband from New York City to his new job in Kansas. Instead, she trades her empty nest for a Cape Cod beach house.”

2/24/17- Mostly unrealistic and it held my interest only on occasion. TRDB. 

2) TAKE EVERY WAVE: THE LIFE OF LAIRD HAMILTON– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Turning to the mammoth waves of Oahu’s north shore to escape an abusive home, Laird Hamilton has made surfing innovation his life’s work. With a winter surf season on Kauai as the backdrop, this in-depth documentary charts his story.”

10/6/17- Great reviews. TRDB. 

3) TOM OF FINLAND– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Touko Laaksonen returns to his native Finland after World War II, he begins creating the frank homoerotic drawings that will eventually bring him global fame — despite living in an environment where homosexuality is a criminal offense.”

10/15/17- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4) ONLY THE BRAVE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “This action-drama chronicles the true story of 19 elite firefighters from Arizona’s Prescott Fire Department who lost their lives in June 2013 while battling the Yarnell Hill wildfire that was ignited by lightning.”

10/20/17- Excellent reviews by nearly everyone. TRDB.

5) SUNDOWNERS– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Alex Hopper couldn’t be more bored with his “career” as a wedding videographer. So, when his boss sends him to a destination wedding in Mexico, the frustrated filmmaker invites a friend along and the two are primed for fun — whatever it may entail.”

12/15/17- Very good reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

6) BUSTER’S MAL HEART– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this mind-bending existential mystery, an eccentric fugitive living in the woods survives on food he steals from unoccupied vacation homes. But he’s tormented by visions of being adrift at sea and memories of his prior life as a loving family man.”

4/28/17- Fair reviews from the critics and very good ones from audiences. TRDB.

7) WALKING OUT– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Texas teen David visits his father’s off-the-grid Montana home once a year, and this time Dad decides David is ready for his first big-game hunt. But when a run-in with a grizzly bear leaves Dad injured, David is forced to take charge.”

10/6/17- Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/8/17- A very good movie if perhaps a bit too long. Great photography and very good music score as well. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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