The Reel Dr. Bob

JULY 18, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

 THIS WEEK’S NEWSLETTER IS BEING SENT EARLY AND WILL NOT CONTAIN MANY OF THE CURRENT MOVIES PLAYING IN LOCAL THEATERS. THE NEXT ISSUE SHOULD BE COMPLETE AGAIN—

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) ALL IS WELL– Netflix Streaming.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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.

7/13/19- Of  no interest and I turned it off. Besides, I hate stalking movies. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) ALL IS WELL– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A woman sexually assaulted by a family member of her new boss tries to move on with her life, but it continues to weigh on her body and mind.”

7/15/19- Excellent reviews for this German movie and I couldn’t agree more. Very powerful. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) DAWSON CITY: FROZEN TIME– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using material from 1910s and ’20s silent films and newsreels that were found buried in Dawson City, Yukon, in 1978, director Bill Morrison put together this fascinating history of the gold rush boomtown.”

6/9/17- Great reviews for this documentary. One critic called it a masterpiece. TRDB.

2) WORKING WOMAN– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this engrossing drama, ambitious Orna goes back to work to help support her kids and hubby as he struggles to make a go of his new restaurant. While Orna quickly moves up the ladder, the job becomes intolerable when her boss makes sexual advances.”

3/27/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) 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.

4) IF THE DANCER DANCES– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Aided by three members of late choreographer Merce Cunningham’s former dance company, acclaimed dance-maker Stephen Petronio and his crew set out to re-create “RainForest,” the legendary Cunningham’s 1968 masterwork.”

4/26/19- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) THE FAREWELL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Defying her parents’ wishes, expatriate writer Billi returns to her native China when she learns that her grandmother is terminally ill. But Billi soon finds herself conflicted by the family’s decision to hide her grandmother’s diagnosis from her.”

7/12/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) ROJO– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Evoking the surreal atmosphere of Argentinean society under military dictatorship during the mid-1970s, this taut drama focuses on a prominent lawyer whose life takes an ominous turn after a stranger berates him in a restaurant.”

7/12/19- Generally not my kind of movie but reviews were very good and I will try to see this movie. TRDB.

3) SEA OF SHADOWS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using illegal nets in the Sea of Cortez to harvest the prized bladders of totoaba fish, poachers are devastating the population and ecosystem of the vaquita, a rare type of porpoise. This documentary charts efforts to save the animal from extinction.”

7/12/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) THE ART OF SELF-DEFENSE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being randomly attacked in public, Casey signs up at a martial-arts school to learn karate and ensure his protection. But he soon discovers that there’s a dark side to his enigmatic sensei’s world.”

7/12/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5) FIRECRACKERS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Teenage best friends Chantal and Lou are hell-bent on escaping their one-horse hometown. But when a night of carousing ends with Chantal’s violent ex forcing himself on her, the young women turn their focus to exacting vengeance.”

7/12/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) SWORD OF TRUST– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Cynthia’s grandfather dies, she inherits a Civil War-era sword that revisionist-history nuts believe is proof that the South defeated the North. Before long, she’s teaming with a crusty pawnshop owner to sell the weapon to the highest bidder.”

7/12/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) AMERICAN HERETICS: THE POLITICS OF THE GOSPEL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary follows a group of Bible Belt faithful who — alarmed by extremist attitudes among fundamentalist Christians — advocate a “Gospel of Inclusion,” which aims to keep Christianity free of racism, xenophobia and other bigotry.”

7/12/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8) GENERAL MAGIC– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Once called “the most important dead company in Silicon Valley,” Apple spinoff General Magic produced what was in essence the first smartphone. Unfortunately, it came a decade too early, as chronicled in this absorbing documentary.”

7/12/19- Excellent reviews by the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

9) SUMMER NIGHT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “The thrills and agonies of teen life and love unspool over a single night as pals and bandmates Seth and Jameson prepare for a gig. While Seth deals with life-altering news from his girlfriend, Jameson finds himself torn between two girls.”

7/12/19- Fair reviews. TRDB.

10) THE SWEET REQUIEM– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fleeing her Tibet homeland with her dad for a new life in India, Dolkar braves an arduous trek across the Himalayas that leads to tragedy after their guide deserts them. When Dolkar meets him again years later, the encounter stirs repressed memories.”

7/12/19- Reviews were mixed but this movie sounds really interesting to me. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) STUBER– Poor reviews

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

1) ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD– Cinema 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actor Rick Dalton once starred in a hit TV Western, but six years after the show’s demise, his career has faded. As Rick and his stunt double, Cliff Booth, try to reinvent themselves, all hell is about to break loose at neighbor Sharon Tate’s house.”

7/16/19- Very good reviews for this comedy/drama by Quentin Tarantino. TRDB.

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH- Not available

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- Not available

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) BEFORE STONEWALL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “From 1920s Harlem to the McCarthy era, this documentary reconstructs the history of gay and lesbian life leading up to the 1969 Stonewall riots, which ignited the modern-day gay rights movement.”

7/15/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) 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.

6/2/19- I didn’t think it was that special– just OK. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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

1) MAIDEN- Excellent reviews for this documentary-

2) THE REPORTS ON SARAH & SALEEM– Very good reviews

3) ECHO IN THE CANYON– Good reviews and I plan to  see it

4) WILD ROSE– I liked this movie

5) YESTERDAY– OK reviews- friends have liked it. (limited screenings)

JUNE 27, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) DAVID– Amazon Prime

2) THE DAWNS HERE ARE QUIET– Amazon Prime

3) PAVAROTTI– At the Theater

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) PAVAROTTI– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he died in 2007, Luciano Pavarotti had realized his dream of bringing opera to the masses. This documentary paints a compelling portrait of the tenor by drawing on family archives, home videos, behind-the-scenes material and concert footage.”

6/7/19- Good reviews. TRDB.

6/23/19- I enjoyed this documentary very much. Plenty of wonderful singing as well. TRDB. 

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) DAVID– 2014. This movie is about an 11 year old Muslim boy in Brooklyn who is mistaken for Jewish by a group of religious Jews and develops a relationship with them until the truth comes out.

6/19/19- Enjoyed the movie and the message it gives. TRDB. Amazon Prime.

2) THE DAWNS HERE ARE QUIET- 2019. About a Russian army sergeant at the end of WW2 and the 5 women soldiers he commands.

6/20/19- An excellent drama. TRDB. Amazon Prime.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) THE HEIRESSES–  2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Together for more than 30 years, Chela and Chiquita stick to their defined roles, with Chiquita managing their lives and Chela working on her art. But when Chiquita is jailed for fraud, timid Chela begins awakening to her long-dormant passions.”

2) STYX–  2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Prepared for the adventure of a lifetime, emergency room doctor Rieke sets off on a 5,000-mile solo voyage to Ascension Island in the Atlantic. But when she encounters a foundering refugee boat, she finds herself caught in a moral dilemma.”

2/27/19- Excellent reviews by the critics but just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) THE PUBLIC– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Cincinnati endures a blast of Arctic cold, the public library serves as a refuge for all. But as closing time nears — and with emergency shelters already full — a group of homeless patrons refuses to leave, leading to a clash with authorities.”

4/3/19- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

4) THE BEST OF ENEMIES– 2019- Synopsis by Netflix. “On opposite sides for a decade, civil rights activist Ann Atwater and Ku Klux Klan leader C.P. Ellis grudgingly work together on a committee overseeing school desegregation in Durham, North Carolina. In the process, the two form an unlikely bond.”

4/5/19- Mixed reviews– more poor than good for this drama. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK-

Recommended–

1) WILD ROSE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While single mom — and just paroled ex-con — Rose-Lynn Harlan dreams of becoming a country music star, Nashville is a long way from her Scottish home. But she finds an improbable champion in the well-heeled woman whose house Rose cleans.”

6/21/19- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) THE COMMAND– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This real-life thriller set in 2000 recounts the sinking of Russia’s nuclear submarine “Kursk,” focusing on the 23 crew members who survive the crash in an isolated air pocket, only to wait days for rescue as their oxygen runs out.”

6/21/19- Fair reviews for this drama based on a real situation. TRDB.

3) BURN YOUR MAPS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his parents still reeling from a tragedy, 8-year-old Wes throws himself into a school project on Mongolia, coming to believe he hails from there. After raising funds with a pal for a trip “home,” Wes takes his family on an introspective journey.”

6/21/19- Mixed reviews– slightly more positive than negative. TRDB.

4) THE QUIET ONE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “From the time he was a child, longtime Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman kept a journal — one that provides plenty of background material for this absorbing documentary, which also details his post-Stones projects.”

6/21/19- Poor reviews but I’d see it just for the history lesson. TRDB.

5) TONI MORRISON: THE PIECES I AM– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This in-depth documentary looks at the life and works of Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Toni Morrison, who gives voice to the African-American experience through fiction that exposes a point of view counter to the establishment.”

6/21/10- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) THE CHAMBERMAID– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Employed as a chambermaid in one of Mexico City’s finest hotels, Eve dreams of a better life. But try as she might — working long shifts and attending night classes — she finds that her chances for advancement depend on more than hard work.”

6/26/19- Excellent reviews for this foreign drama. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) BILLBOARD– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “After inheriting his father’s radio station, Casey must right the foundering ship, which is being trounced in the ratings. To save his dad’s legacy, Casey holds a billboard-sitting contest to see who can live the longest on the sign’s catwalk.”

6/21/19- Awful reviews. TRDB.

2) THE EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY OF THE FAKIR– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “After his mother’s death, a young fakir from the streets of Mumbai, AJATASHATRU or ‘AJA’ (“Dhanush”), leaves India for France to track down the father he never knew. From the moment he arrives in Paris, nothing goes as planned.”

6/21/19- Mostly poor reviews. TRDB.

3) STARFISH– Horror and poor reviews as well. I’m not interested

4) CHILD’S PLAY– Weak reviews and I’d skip it

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) YESTERDAY– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While he’s still looking for his big break, musician Jack Malik gets hit by a bus during a global blackout. But when he wakes up to find he’s the lone person on Earth who knows of the Beatles and their songbook, Jack has a huge chance at stardom.”

6/25/19- Weak reviews for this comedy/drama. TRDB.

2)  WILD ROSE– Jacob Burns.  2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While single mom — and just paroled ex-con — Rose-Lynn Harlan dreams of becoming a country music star, Nashville is a long way from her Scottish home. But she finds an improbable champion in the well-heeled woman whose house Rose cleans.”

6/21/19- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

3) TONI MORRISON: THE PIECES I AM– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This in-depth documentary looks at the life and works of Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Toni Morrison, who gives voice to the African-American experience through fiction that exposes a point of view counter to the establishment.”

6/21/10- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) LATE NIGHT– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Good laughs and good acting with an OK screenplay. TRDB.

2) PAVAROTTI– Jacob Burns,Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. A wonderful documentary.

3) ROCKETMAN– Danbury, Clearview 100. I loved the movie.

4) ECHO IN THE CANYON– Bethel. Good reviews.

5) THE LAST BLACK MAN IN SAN FRANCISCO– Jacob Burns. Very good reviews.

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) YESTERDAY- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While he’s still looking for his big break, musician Jack Malik gets hit by a bus during a global blackout. But when he wakes up to find he’s the lone person on Earth who knows of the Beatles and their songbook, Jack has a huge chance at stardom.”

6/25/19- Weak reviews for this comedy/drama. TRDB.

2) LATE NIGHT– Good laughs and good acting with an OK screenplay. TRDB.

3) PAVAROTTI– I loved the movie

4) THE SPY BEHIND HOME PLATE– Good reviews and I want to see this one

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) YESTERDAY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While he’s still looking for his big break, musician Jack Malik gets hit by a bus during a global blackout. But when he wakes up to find he’s the lone person on Earth who knows of the Beatles and their songbook, Jack has a huge chance at stardom.”

6/25/19- Weak reviews for this comedy/drama. TRDB.

2) LATE NIGHT– Good laughs and good acting with an OK screenplay. TRDB.

6/15/19- Good laughs and good acting with an OK screenplay. TRDB.

3) PAVAROTTI- I loved the movie

4) ROCKETMAN– Great documentary

5) THE SPY BEHIND HOME PLATE– Very good reviews and I’d liked to see it

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) ECHO IN THE CANYON– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the mid-1960s, Laurel Canyon in the Hollywood Hills became the creative nexus for a generation of young musicians who would become rock ‘n’ roll icons. This affectionate documentary looks at that famous scene’s history and ongoing influence.”

5/31/19- Excellent reviews by the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) PASOLINI- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This evocative portrait of outspoken, controversial director Pier Paolo Pasolini traces the last day of his life — Nov. 2, 1975 — which he spent with his mother and friends before vanishing into the night and being found murdered the next day.”

5/10/19- Decent reviews by the critics and awful ones by audiences. TRDB.

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS-

1) YESTERDAY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “While he’s still looking for his big break, musician Jack Malik gets hit by a bus during a global blackout. But when he wakes up to find he’s the lone person on Earth who knows of the Beatles and their songbook, Jack has a huge chance at stardom.”

6/25/19- Weak reviews for this comedy/drama. TRDB.

2) THE SPY BEHIND HOME PLATE– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The Spy Behind Home Plate is the first feature-length documentary to tell the real story of Morris “Moe” Berg, the enigmatic and brilliant Jewish baseball player turned spy.”

3) THE FALL OF THE AMERICAN EMPIRE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though he has a doctorate degree in philosophy, Pierre-Paul Daoust ends up working as a courier — a job he considers beneath him. But it soon nets him two bags of money from a botched heist, putting him in a moral dilemma.”

5/31/19- OK reviews. TRDB.

4) LATE NIGHT– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Accused of being antifeminist, late-night talk-show host Katherine Newbury hires her first female writer, Molly Patel. But what begins as a “marriage of convenience” evolves into more as Molly injects a much-needed fresh viewpoint.”

6/15/19- Good laughs and good acting with an OK screenplay. TRDB.

5) THE THIRD WIFE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 19th-century Vietnam, 14-year-old May becomes a rich landowner’s third wife, knowing that she must give birth to a son to increase her status. But after she becomes pregnant, dormant desires force her to choose between safety and freedom.”

5/15/19- Very good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

MAY 16, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) EVERYBODY KNOWS– Netflix Disc.

2) STAN & OLLIE– Netflix Disc.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) 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- Fair reviews from critics and poor ones from audiences. I’d see this just to look at Penelope Cruz. TRDB.

5/9/19- Despite a predictable, poor ending I still enjoyed this movie. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) STAN & OLLIE- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With their glory days as Hollywood’s premier comedy team long behind them, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy begin a 1953 farewell tour of England and Ireland, reminding audiences — and themselves — of the magic of their partnership.”

12/28/18- Very good to excellent reviews. TRDB.

5/14/19- An excellent drama- I thoroughly it. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) ISN’T IT ROMANTIC– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young architect Natalie, who’s had little luck in love or career advancement, awakens one day to find that her life has morphed into a romantic comedy, with her as the star. Making matters worse, her assistant and confidante is now her mortal enemy.”

2/13/19- Fair reviews at best. One review said it wasn’t funny and it wasn’t romantic. TRDB.

2) ICEMAN– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using the discovery of a Neolithic man’s mummified remains as a jumping-off point, this inventive drama imagines that prehistoric man’s long and perilous quest to exact revenge for the murders that wiped out his tribe.”

3/16/19- Good reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences. TRDB.

3) MY SCIENTOLOGY MOVIE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a quest to better understand the psychological impulses that attract people to the Church of Scientology, this compelling exposé re-enacts incidents described by disillusioned former members. Meanwhile, the Church tries to hamstring the project.”

3/10/17- Very good reviews by critics and fair at best reviews from audiences. TRDB.

4) LET THE SUNSHINE IN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix “Lamenting the approach of middle age, divorced Parisian artist Isabelle wades back into the romantic fray to find a compatible mate. But she soon concludes that none of the men she meets seem to comprehend the basic truths of love.”

4/26/18- Starring Juliette Binoche, this movie has received very good reviews. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) CHARLIE SAYS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this biographical drama that follows Leslie Van Houten, Patricia Krenwinkel and Susan Atkins after they’re imprisoned for the Manson family murders, a graduate student tries to help them come to terms with their heinous crimes.”

5/10/19- Terrible reviews by the critics but excellent ones by audiences. I’d take a chance on this one. TRDB.

2) PASOLINI– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This evocative portrait of outspoken, controversial director Pier Paolo Pasolini traces the last day of his life — Nov. 2, 1975 — which he spent with his mother and friends before vanishing into the night and being found murdered the next day.”

5/10/19- Decent reviews by the critics and awful ones by audiences. TRDB.

3) DAVID CROSS: OH, COME ON– Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Shot in Asheville, N.C. during the summer of 2018, this latest special covers a multitude of subjects. From being a new dad, who happens to be hyper aware of hacky “new dad” bits, and the joys and terrors of a “couples colonic,” to American life in the Trump era, all told in the unmistakable provocative style of David Cross – America’s original Southern Gentleman. Share the laughter, the tears, the gasps, and the salty language that you’ve come to know and love. Stare into the abyss one more time until the next time and see what makes David Cross one of the top 400 comics in America today.”

5/10/19- Just 2 reviews at this time– one up and 1 down. TRDB.

4) AT THE HEART OF GOLD: INSIDE THE USA GYMNASTICS SCANDAL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When it was revealed that USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar had sexually abused scores of athletes over decades, the gymnastics world erupted. This illuminating documentary examines the culture within the sport that led to the crisis.”

5/10/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) THE RIVER AND THE WALL– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “With threats of a border wall looming, filmmaker Ben Masters sets out with a small group of explorers to traverse the 1,200 miles from El Paso to the Gulf of Mexico that constitute the crux of the immigration debate.”

5/10/19- Great reviews. TRDB.

6) THE BIGGEST LITTLE FARM– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmmaker John Chester and his wife, Molly, long dreamed of trading Los Angeles for a rural life. So, when the couple gets evicted from their apartment thanks to their barking dog, they jump at the chance to start a diversified farm outside the city.”

5/10/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7) THE SERENGETI RULES– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking viewers from the Pacific Northwest to Peru, the Aleutian Islands and Africa’s Serengeti region, this visually stunning documentary looks at the work of five visionary ecologists whose discoveries toppled our understanding of the food chain.”

5/10/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8) THE THIRD WIFE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 19th-century Vietnam, 14-year-old May becomes a rich landowner’s third wife, knowing that she must give birth to a son to increase her status. But after she becomes pregnant, dormant desires force her to choose between safety and freedom.”

5/15/19- Very good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) POMS-

2) THE HUSTLE-

3) ALL IS TRUE-

4) MY SON-

5) TOLKIEN- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing biopic focusing on the university days of J.R.R. Tolkien, the author meets his future wife and muse, Edith Bratt, and forms the friendships that will inspire him to pen his classic Middle-Earth novels.”
5/7/19- Poor reviews for this biopic. TRDB.

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THE BIGEST LITTLE FARM– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmmaker John Chester and his wife, Molly, long dreamed of trading Los Angeles for a rural life. So, when the couple gets evicted from their apartment thanks to their barking dog, they jump at the chance to start a diversified farm outside the city.”

5/10/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) NON-FICTION– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this diverting comedy, Parisian book editor Alain and his longtime author Léonard — both contending with midlife crises — reluctantly find themselves trying to get a handle on the publishing industry’s new rules in the digital age.”

5/3/19- Very good reviews and I’ll definitely try to see this, especially with Juliette Binoche. TRDB.

3) ASAKO 1 & 2- Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “After young Asako falls for charming rogue Baku, he vanishes one day without explanation. Although Asako is heartbroken, she moves on and two years later meets Ryôhei, who is Baku’s physical double — but otherwise opposite in every way.

5/14/19- Fair to good reviews. TRDB.

4) THE SUN IS ALSO A STAR– Danbury. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Born in Jamaica but now living in New York City, realist Natasha Kingsley is facing imminent deportation. As she looks for an eleventh-hour reprieve to remain in America, fate leads her to meet young dreamer Daniel Bae … and sparks fly.”

5/15/19- No reviews as yet but it sounds interesting. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) TOLKIEN– Bethel, Cinema 100.

2) ASK DR. RUTH– Cinema 100.

3) THE WHITE CROW– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Cinema 100.

4) RED JOAN– Bethel, Cinema 100.

5) AMAZING GRACE– Jacob Burns, Cinema 100.

6) LONG SHOT- Bethel.

7) THE MUSTANG– Bethel. I liked it very much

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) TOLKIEN– Poor reviews for this biopic

2) ASK DR. RUTH– Very good reviews

3) LONG SHOT– Good for a few laughs and that’s about it

4) RED JOAN– Poor reviews but friends have liked it

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

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) 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.

2) STYX– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Prepared for the adventure of a lifetime, emergency room doctor Rieke sets off on a 5,000-mile solo voyage to Ascension Island in the Atlantic. But when she encounters a foundering refugee boat, she finds herself caught in a moral dilemma.”

2/27/19- Excellent reviews by the critics but just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

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

1) JOURNEY TO A MOTHER’S ROOM– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. Leonor wants to leave home but she doesn’t dare tell her mother. Estrella doesn’t want her daughter to leave, but she isn’t able to keep her by her side. Mother and daughter will have to face a new time in their lives in which the world they share is wavering.”

5/15/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) RAFIKI– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a conservative Nairobi neighborhood, forbidden same-sex love blooms between teenage girls Kena and Ziki, whose fathers are political rivals. But as suspicion swirls around them, Kena and Ziki are forced to make a painful choice.”

4/19/19- Very good to excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) ASK DR. RUTH– Very good reviews.

4) THE WHITE CROW– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This stylish biopic charts the early years of Soviet ballet star Rudolf Nureyev, from his birth on a train in 1938 to his rise during the Cold War to the life-altering decision he makes while performing in Paris in 1961.”

4/26/19- Reviews are mixed with more positives than negatives. TRDB.

5) WILD NIGHTS WITH EMILY– (limited screenings)

MAY 2, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS-

BACK IN NY NOW—–

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE LAST RESORT– Netflix Streaming

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE LAST RESORT– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An uncannily revealing portrait of American photographers Andy Sweet and Gary Monroe and the vibrant community of Jewish retirees they obsessively focused their camera’s lens on in the sunburned paradise of 1970s Miami Beach.”

12/21/18- Just 2 reviews found and they are both very good. TRDB.

4/29/19- I enjoyed this documentary very much and highly recommend it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK- (these were included in last week’s issue)

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) AVENGERS: ENDGAME– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This installment of the Avengers saga opens to a decimated world in which half the population — including Spider-Man and a host of his superhero friends — has been eliminated by the evil Thanos, who seems to have taken up farming.”

4/26/19- Excellent reviews but definitely NOT my kind of movie. TRDB.

2) J.T. LEROY– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, writer Laura Albert — aided by her husband and sister-in-law — pulls off one of the greatest literary charades of all time by publishing several novels posing as a street-smart teenage boy from West Virginia.”

4/26/19- Weak reviews from the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) THE WHITE CROW– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This stylish biopic charts the early years of Soviet ballet star Rudolf Nureyev, from his birth on a train in 1938 to his rise during the Cold War to the life-altering decision he makes while performing in Paris in 1961.”

4/26/19- Reviews are mixed with more positives than negatives. TRDB.

4) TESLA NATION– 2018. Synopsis by IMDB.  “We are all one. People are interconnected by invisible forces. Creative documentary about the history of Serbian immigration to the USA. Road movie through the present, from the East Coast to the West Coast. Global story about a nation.”

4/26/19- No reviews available at this time. TRDB.

5) QUEEN OF  DIAMONDS– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In this drama, a female blackjack dealer becomes a juggler as she struggles to cope with her job, her search for her lost husband, and her responsibility of caring for an elderly man in a motel.”

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS–

1) ASK DR. RUTH– Cinema 100. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ruth Westheimer helped bring sex out of the shadows with her TV show “Ask Dr. Ruth.” In this documentary, the feisty therapist looks back at her remarkable life, which includes being a Holocaust survivor.”

4/29/29- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) LONG SHOT– Bethel, Danbury. Very good reviews for this comedy

REPEATS–

1) RED JOAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Poor reviews

2) WILD NIGHTS WITH EMILY– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews

3) AMAZING GRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews

4) HER SMELL– Clearview 100. Good reviews and I want to see it

5) THE MUSTANG– Bethel. I liked this movie very much

6) BREAKTHROUGH– Danbury. Ok reviews.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) LONG SHOT– Very good reviews for this comedy

2) ASK DR. RUTH– Excellent reviews

3) RED JOAN– Poor reviews

4) THE CHAPERONE– Weak reviews

5) RAMEN SHOP– Fair reviews at best

6) THE SHOPLIFTERS– I didn’t care for this at all

7) THE MUSTANG– I liked it very much

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- SAME AS LAKE WORTH BUT NOT SHOWING “THE MUSTANG.”

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

1) ASK DR. RUTH-

2) THE RAMEN SHOP–

3) SUNSET-

4 THE CHAPERONE–

5) TRANSIT–

6) DIANE– limited screenings

D) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) ASK DR. RUTH- 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ruth Westheimer helped bring sex out of the shadows with her TV show “Ask Dr. Ruth.” In this documentary, the feisty therapist looks back at her remarkable life, which includes being a Holocaust survivor.”

4/29/29- Excellent reviews. 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.

_____________________________________________________________________

1) CAPERNAUM– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this dark fable set in a Middle East country undergoing political and social upheaval, a 12-year-old boy sees nothing but suffering and pain in his future, prompting him to sue his parents for bringing him into the world.”

12/14/18- Just so-so reviews. TRDB.

2/10/19- I liked the movie very much but prepare to be sad

afterwards.  TRDB.

1) A PRIVATE WAR– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, dauntless war correspondent Marie Colvin reports from the front lines of conflict in hot spots all over the world, including Chechnya, Kosovo, the Middle East and East Timor.”

11/2/18- Very good reviews from the critics but just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

2/10/19- I enjoyed the movie especially its demonstration once again that war is hell- in this case documented by Colvin. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

1) COLUMBUS– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “After traveling from Korea to Columbus, Indiana — where his architect father lies in a coma — middle-aged Jin meets young Casey, who’s put her dreams on hold to care for her mother. As Jin and Casey bond, her architectural ambitions are reignited.”

8/4/17- Excellent reviews by the critics and good ones by audiences. TRDB.

8/19/17- It felt like reading an emotional article in Architecture Digest. Very well done with wonderful, understated acting and excellent screenplay. TRDB.

4) THE LAST RACE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Small-town stock-car racing venues are a disappearing slice of Americana, but Long Island’s Riverhead Raceway is still open and hosting low-budget meets. Meanwhile, the track’s once-rural surroundings have become a bustling commercial district.”

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

1) HIGH FLYING BIRD– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In the midst of a pro basketball lockout, sports agent Ray Burke (André Holland) finds himself caught in the face-off between the league and the players.”

2/8/19- Excellent reviews by the critics. TRDB.

2) ANGELA’S DIARIES– 2019. About the real couple Angela Ricci Lucchi and Yervant Gianikian.

2/8/19-Here’s what the NY Times had to say– “Angela’s Diaries” asks of the viewer a kind of patience that may only reside in those already conversant with the couple’s contributions, but its tenderness and straightforwardness are immediately admirable.”

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) 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.

5) ONE MILLION AMERICAN DREAMS– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “If you can make it there, you’ll make it anywhere…’ But what happens if you don’t make it in New York? What happens if you fall so far short of success in the world’s most iconic city that you can’t even afford to be buried properly? Less than 16 miles from central Manhattan lies Hart Island, a 101-acre cemetery and the final resting place of over 1 million New Yorkers.”

2/8/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

6) THE GOSPEL OF EUREKA– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Juxtaposing performance footage recounting Jesus Christ’s last days with a gospel-themed drag show, this engaging documentary set in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, looks at the peaceful coexistence of the town’s evangelical Christians and LGBTQ community.”

2/8/19- OK reviews. TRDB.

7) 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.

1) LORDS OF CHAOS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based rock ‘n’ roll drama, a teen’s dream turns into something much darker when Øystein Aarseth (aka Euronymous) forms heavy metal band Mayhem in 1987, only to fall prey six years later to the violence reflected in its music.”

2/8/19- Fair reviews at best– several calling the movie just plain boring. TRDB.

2) ISN’T IT ROMANTIC– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young architect Natalie, who’s had little luck in love or career advancement, awakens one day to find that her life has morphed into a romantic comedy, with her as the star. Making matters worse, her assistant and confidante is now her mortal enemy.”

2/13/19- Fair reviews at best. One review said it wasn’t funny and it wasn’t romantic. TRDB.

EACH OF THE FOLLOWING MOVIES RECEIVED TERRIBLE REVIEWS AND WERE NOT WORTH REVIEWING!!! RARELY SO MANY IN A SINGLE WEEK-

1) COLD PURSUIT-

2) BERLIN, I LOVE YOU-

3) THE MAN WHO KILLED HITLER AND THEN THE BIGFOOT-

4) WHAT MEN WANT-

5) THE PRODIGY-

6) UNDER THE EIFFEL TOWER-

7) UNTOGETHER-

1) ARCTIC– Bethel. 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 co-pilot badly hurt — Overgård must decide whether to begin a long trek to find help.”

2/1/19- Excellent reviews for this drama starring Mads Mikkelsen. TRDB.

2) THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD– Bethel, Danbury. 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Peter Jackson directs this homage to the British troops of the First World War with never-before-seen-footage of soldiers as they faced the fear and uncertainty of frontline battle in Belgium.”

1/30/19- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) THE HEIRESSES– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Together for more than 30 years, Chela and Chiquita stick to their defined roles, with Chiquita managing their lives and Chela working on her art. But when Chiquita is jailed for fraud, timid Chela begins awakening to her long-dormant passions.”

1/16/19- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) NEVER LOOK AWAY– Jacob Burns. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing drama based loosely on the life of visual artist Gerhard Richter, an art student trying to get past the trauma of growing up in Nazi Germany falls for a fellow student. But her father — an ex-Nazi — is bent on keeping them apart.”

1/25/19- OK reviews for this very long drama. TRDB.

5) TO DUST– Clearview 100. 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.

5) THE INVISIBLES— Clearview 100. 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.

2) COLD WAR– I wasn’t overly impressed.

3) HEADING HOME: THE TALE OF TEAM ISRAEL– Fair reviews.

4) THE LAST RESORT– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An uncannily revealing portrait of American photographers Andy Sweet and Gary Monroe and the vibrant community of Jewish retirees they obsessively focused their camera’s lens on in the sunburned paradise of 1970s Miami Beach.”

12/21/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) CAPERNAUM– I liked it very much

6) GREEN BOOK– Excellent and a must-see

5) THE LAST RESORT– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An uncannily revealing portrait of American photographers Andy Sweet and Gary Monroe and the vibrant community of Jewish retirees they obsessively focused their camera’s lens on in the sunburned paradise of 1970s Miami Beach.”

12/21/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

JANUARY 10, 2019

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) VICE- At the Theater

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) VICE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Focusing on his powerful two-term tenure as second in command to U.S. President George W. Bush, this biographical drama chronicles the long and controversial political career of Dick Cheney.”

12/24/18- Fair reviews at best by the critics. TRDB.

1/6/19- I didn’t expect to like this movie but I did. I found it infuriating, frustrating and with parallels to today’s political situation. TRDB. 

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK-

1) MADELINE’S MADELINE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “While her mom sees Madeline as a fragile, emotional teen, the director of her theater workshop sees her as a raw talent with a troubled history that can be exploited for her art. Before long, Madeline’s loyalties are torn between mother and mentor.”

8/10/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE BOOKSHOP– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1950s England, cultural growth has largely bypassed the quiet seaside village of Hardborough, but that changes when a middle-aged widow opens the town’s first bookshop. Unfortunately, she soon finds herself at odds with a local arts patron.”

8/24/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK-

1) GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Orphans Seita (voiced by Tsutomu Tatsumi) and Setsuko (Ayano Shiraishi) fight for survival in post-World War II Japan. But society is harsh, and they come to the somber conclusion that they can neither escape the hardships of war nor find enough food to survive. Named the Best Animated Feature at the 1994 Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, this film proves that not all anime tales are pixie-dust fantasies or brutal sci-fi standoffs.”

1/4/19- Just 1 review noted and it is excellent. TRDB.

2) THE VANISHING– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by events that occurred more than 100 years ago on an uninhabited island off Scotland’s coast, this psychological thriller follows a trio of lighthouse keepers who vanish from the isle without a trace.”

1/5/19- Fair reviews from both the critics and audiences. TRDB.

3) THE VENERABLE W.- 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes.  “The Venerable W.” by Barbet Schroeder is the last installment in the director’s “Trilogy of Evil”. This time the director goes to Burma, into the heart of everyday racism, to explore how Islamophobia and hate speech transforms itself into violence and destruction in a country that is 90 percent Buddhist – the world’s most peaceful of religions, founded on a tolerant, non-violent way of life.”

1/4/19- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) ESCAPE ROOM– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Tyler’s girlfriend buys him tickets to an escape-room event, the couple and four friends are ready for an adventure. But their fun turns into fear as the group comes to realize that the game they’ve entered may prove fatal.”

1/4/19- Pretty bad reviews from the critics and nearly as bad from audiences. TRDB.

2) 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.

3) STATE LIKE SLEEP– Awful reviews.

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) COLD WAR– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by the turbulent marriage of the director’s parents, this bittersweet drama follows pianist Wiktor and singer Zula — star-crossed lovers with divergent backgrounds and temperaments — as they pursue an impossible romance in postwar Europe.”

12/21/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE UPSIDE– Danbury. 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This affecting dramedy follows the unlikely friendship between Phillip, a New York City billionaire crippled in a hang-gliding accident, and Dell, a recently released ex-con who’s hired to be his caretaker.”

1/9/19- Poor reviews– most saying that it was cliche ridden. TRDB.

3) ROMA- Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. ” ROMA follows Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), a young domestic worker for a family in the middle-class neighborhood of Roma in Mexico City.”

11/22/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

12/15/18- Sorry to say but I was disappointed in this well hyped foreign drama. I found it much too slow and most of the themes presented I have seen before and better. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

REPEATS-

1) IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100.

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

3) ON THE BASIS OF SEX– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk.

4) THE FAVOURITE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews but I probably won’t see this one

5) VICE– Bethel, Danbury I didn’t expect to like it but I did.

6) MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS– Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews but I have no interest in seeing this

7) BEN IS BACK– Good reviews. Haven’t seen it yet

8) A STAR IS BORN– Danbury. I liked this very much. Great Lady Gaga

9) THE MULE– Danbury. I liked this Clint Eastwood movie very much

10) BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY– Danbury. I enjoyed this very much

______________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THE UPSIDE– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “This affecting dramedy follows the unlikely friendship between Phillip, a New York City billionaire crippled in a hang-gliding accident, and Dell, a recently released ex-con who’s hired to be his caretaker.”

1/9/19- Poor reviews– most saying that it was cliche ridden. TRDB.

2) ON THE BASIS OF SEX– Good reviews and I plan to see it

3) IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK– Excellent reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) BEN IS BACK– Good reviews

5) GREEN BOOK– Excellent and a must-see

6) VICE- I liked it- I didn’t think I would

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- Same as above except BEN IS BACK is not showing

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) THE GREEN FOG– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this experimental movie created for the final night of the 2017 San Francisco International Film Festival, director Guy Maddin and collaborators reimagine Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo” using a visual collage of found footage from a host of sources.”

1/5/18- I’ve seen just 5 reviews and they were all very good. TRDB.

2) THAT WAY MADNESS LIES– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “What do you do when your brother descends into a black hole of mental instability – starting with falling for a Nigerian email scam but eventually winding up involuntary committed into the hospital made famous by One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest?”

12/14/18- Just 3 reviews and they are all very good. TRDB. 

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON

1) SHOPLIFTERS– Very good reviews.

2) 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. 

3) THE WORLD BEFORE YOUR FEET– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. Genial Matt Green is a man with a singular purpose: to walk every block of New York City. This personal documentary follows Green as he pursues his endless trek, chatting with residents while exploring local history and flavor along the way.”

11/27/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS– OK reviews but I have no interest in seeing this

5) BEN IS BACK- Good reviews.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

MAY 24, 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) RBG– At the Theater

2) IN BETWEEN– Netflix Disc.

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) RBG– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Providing an illuminating look at the life of trailblazer Ruth Bader Ginsburg — including her career-defining work in gender-discrimination law — this engaging documentary charts her journey to becoming a justice on America’s highest court.”

5/4/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5/18/18- Excellent in every way!!! TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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.

5/19/18- Interesting most of the time, this film is really about independent Palestinian women without reference to the conflict in the area. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MAY 29-

1) MISS STEVENS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Still shaky after her mom’s death, high school teacher Rachel Stevens is asked to chaperone a trio of students to a state drama competition. During the trip, she begins a disquieting flirtation with one of her charges, the emotionally troubled Billy.”

9/16/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

1/16/17- An enjoyable drama with a good screenplay. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) WEST OF THE JORDAN RIVER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Provocative Israeli filmmaker Amos Gitai provides an update to his 1982 documentary about the occupied territories, interviewing politicians, journalists, activists and ordinary citizens about their lives, their hopes for the future and more.”

1/26/18- Fair reviews at best for this documentary. TRDB.

3) RED SPARROW– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Sidelined by a leg injury, ballerina Dominika Egorova becomes a Russian spy tasked with seducing a CIA operative working in Moscow. As their liaison begins to blur her loyalties, Dominika considers becoming a double agent.”

2/27/18- Fair reviews with more positive than negative. TRDB.

4) GAME NIGHT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Friendly competition turns deadly serious when a group of friends’ weekly game night becomes a murder-mystery party instead. As the players attempt to crack the case, they soon find that all is not what it seems.”

2/22/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

Recommended-

1) THE ESCAPE– Haven’t seen it yet but I plan to

2) I, TONYA– I liked it very much

3) THE SHAPE OF WATER– My favorite from last year

4) LADY BIRD– I really liked this movie

____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) ON CHESIL BEACH– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1962, newlyweds Florence and Edward embark on a seaside honeymoon in a state of wedded bliss, but their shared ignorance of how to engage in sex makes for an awkward and apprehensive wedding night.”

5/18/18- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. TRDB.

2) FIRST REFORMED– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mired in guilt over his son’s death, the pastor of a small church agrees to counsel a pregnant congregant and her environmentalist husband, who challenges the clergyman’s views and leads him to embrace the same cause, regardless of the consequences.”

5/18/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

3) THAT SUMMER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1972, photographer Peter Beard and Lee Radziwill set out chronicle her childhood in the Hamptons. But when the Maysles brothers join the project, the focus changes to her eccentric Aunt Edith and daughter Edie — who would inspire “Grey Gardens.”

5/18/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) THE MOST UNKNOWN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Drawing from the insights of scientists from nine disciplines, this engrossing documentary examines some of humankind’s knottiest existential questions and offers a window into what drives scientific researchers into the unknown.”

5/18/18- Fairly good early reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) SAVING BRINTON– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “William Franklin Brinton — America’s greatest barnstorming movie man — comes alive in this engaging documentary that draws on a treasure trove of show reels, trinkets, posters and more discovered by Iowa collector Michael Zahs.”

5/18/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

6) POPE FRANCIS: A MAN OF HIS WORD– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Offering an unprecedented look into the life of Pope Francis, this engrossing documentary also features the pontiff speaking directly to believers about the issues that concern him most, particularly the environment and social justice.”

5/15/18- Fair reviews– more positive than negative- but none glowing. I will see this movie. TRDB.

7) SOLLERS POINT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Out of prison but under house arrest, petty criminal Keith is living at his dad’s Baltimore house while waiting to rejoin the community. But as Keith tries to get on the right track, past connections keep drawing him back to his former life.”

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

8) SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in the years before the events of the original “Star Wars” trilogy, this intergalactic prequel chronicles the early exploits of roguish young Han Solo and his shaggy sidekick, Chewbacca.”

5/18/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

Not Recommended

1) BOOK CLUB– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Friends and members of the 60-plus set, Diane, Jane, Sharon and Carol have seen it all when it comes to relationships. But after reading “Fifty Shades of Gray,” they’re inspired to make bold choices in the romance department, with hilarious results.”

5/16/18- Early reviews are mixed for this comedy. Not my kind of movie anyway. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) FIRST REFORMED– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mired in guilt over his son’s death, the pastor of a small church agrees to counsel a pregnant congregant and her environmentalist husband, who challenges the clergyman’s views and leads him to embrace the same cause, regardless of the consequences.”

5/18/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) DISOBEDIENCE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews.

2) POPE FRANCES: A MAN OF HIS WORD– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Fair to good reviews.

3) RGB– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent movie

4) TULLY- Jacob Burns. I liked this movie– don’t leave early

5) BEAST– Clearview 100. Excellent reviews

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) KEEP THE CHANGE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this offbeat romantic comedy, David is wealthy, charismatic and autistic. When an inappropriate comment lands him in a court-mandated support group, he meets quirky young Sarah — and love begins to blossom.’

11/22/17- I LOVED the movie– starring my niece Samantha Elisofon. TRDB.

3/16/18- Excellent reviews all around. Read Glenn Kenney’ review which (NY Times) is by far the most interesting. TRDB.

2) 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.

3) A BAG OF MARBLES– Very good reviews

4) POPE FRANCES: A MAN OF HIS WORD– Fair to good reviews

5) DISOBEDIENCE– Very good reviews

6) RBG– I liked this movie about Ruth Bader Ginsberg very much

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) KEEP THE CHANGE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this offbeat romantic comedy, David is wealthy, charismatic and autistic. When an inappropriate comment lands him in a court-mandated support group, he meets quirky young Sarah — and love begins to blossom.’

11/22/17- I LOVED the movie– starring my niece Samantha Elisofon. TRDB.

3/16/18- Excellent reviews all around. Read Glenn Kenney’ review which (NT Times) is by far the most interesting. TRDB.

2) RBG- An excellent documentary

3) DISOBEDIENCE– Very good reviews

4) A BAG OF MARBLES- Very good reviews

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) LEAN ON PETE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Passing his teen years largely neglected, Charley Thompson finds a part-time job with a slightly shady horse trainer and develops a strong bond with worn-out racehorse Lean on Pete — whom Charley resolves to save from the slaughterhouse.”

4/6/18- Excellent reviews for this movie. TRDB.

2) THE DESERT BRIDE-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the Buenos Aires family who’s employed Teresa as a maid for more than 30 years can no longer afford her, they find her a job in far-off San Juan. During the 700-mile bus trip, she meets a traveling salesman who changes her life and her outlook.”

5/4/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– Excellent reviews

2) BEAST- Excellent reviews

3) DISOBEDIENCE- Good reviews

4) LET THE SUNSHINE IN– Good reviews

5) THE RIDER– I saw it and liked it. Limited screenings

6) KEEP THE CHANGE– Excellent. A must see!! Limited screenings

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

MAY 31, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

DURING THE NEXT 2-3 WEEKS I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SEND MY NEWSLETTER ON THURSDAYS AS USUAL-

I HAVE INCLUDED INFO FOR NETFLIX FOR THE NEXT 3 WEEKS JUST IN CASE

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) WONDERSTRUCK– Netflix Disc

2) THE TALE– HBO

3) GRADUATION– Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- None

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) WONDERSTRUCK– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on the novel of the same name, this period drama unspools two tales that play out 50 years apart. In 1927, a girl runs away to New York City to meet the actress she idolizes, while in 1977, a boy travels to the Big Apple find his long-lost dad.

10/20/17- Fair reviews for this new movie by Todd Haynes. TRDB.

5/26/18- The movie was so-so. I enjoyed the scenes of NY City. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) THE TALE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With a job that takes her around the world and a doting boyfriend, filmmaker Jennifer has it all — or so she thinks until a story she wrote at age 13 resurfaces and belies her memories of her relationship with two adult mentors.”

5/27/18- An excellent Laura Dern and a good drama as well. TRDB. HBO.

3) GRADUATION– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Romeo Aldea faces a dilemma after his daughter, Eliza, is assaulted the day before a critical final exam. Fearing that the incident may threaten Eliza’s future, Romeo has the power to remedy the situation — but only if he compromises his principles.”

4/7/17- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5/28/18- Interesting and I enjoyed the film from Rumania. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 5-

1) THOROUGHBREDS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Childhood friends recently reunited, teenagers Amanda and Lily make an unlikely but inseparable pair. When Lily’s stepfather threatens to pack her off to reform school, the girls cook up a plan to kill him.”

3/6/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3/16/18- The whole is less than the sum of its parts. Some aspects of the movie were interesting but I can’t say that I’d recommend it. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JUNE 12-

1) THE CAGE FIGHTER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “At age 40, family man Joe Carman breaks his vow never to resume mixed martial arts fighting. Training in secret, Joe prepares to battle a new generation of competitors, convinced that he’s also fighting to conquer his inner demons.”

2/2/18- Good reviews in general but none glowing. TRDB.

2) BLACK PANTHER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After the devastating battles chronicled in “Captain America: Civil War,” Black Panther’s alter ego, T’Challa, returns to his homeland of Wakanda to be crowned its new king. But he soon faces enemies who will test all his superpowers.”

2/13/18- Great reviews for this much hyped new superhero movie with a black star. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JUNE 19-

1) 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.

2) LOVE, SIMON– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Closeted gay teen Simon is mortified when his classmate Martin gets hold of Simon’s intimate email to his online love. With the prospect of humiliation looming, Simon reluctantly agrees to help Martin get closer to Abby, Simon’s female best friend.”

3/16/18- Mostly good reviews but none great. TRDB.

3) FLOWER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After befriending Luke, the troubled son of her mother’s new beau, sexually adventurous teen Erica learns that a teacher molested Luke years ago. Looking to punish the predator, Erica concocts an elaborate plan — but it goes horribly awry.”

3/16/18- Fair reviews from the critics but excellent ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) UNSANE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Shot in secret on an iPhone in just over one week, this experimental tale from director Steven Soderbergh focuses on a woman who finds herself committed to a mental asylum, where she will confront her greatest fear.”

3/21/18- Fairly good reviews for this drama/mystery. TRDB.

5) THE WORKSHOP– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Once bustling, the port town of La Ciotat has seen better times — which writers in a workshop there are trying to reflect in their collective novel. But the hostility and disturbing vision of one participant soon alarm his peers and the instructor.”

3/23/18- Very good reviews for this French drama. TRDB.

6) BACK TO BURGUNDY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Absent for more than a decade and now living in Australia, Jean returns to his native France when his dying father asks him to come home to help his siblings save the family winery. But first they’ll have to reconnect and repair their relationships.”

3/23/18- Fair reviews from the critics and much weaker ones from audiences. I does sound interesting to me. TRDB.

7) NOCTURAMA– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Angry with the French establishment, a group of young Parisians from diverse backgrounds plants a series of bombs around the city. As the band of radicals hides out in a closed-for-the-night department store, authorities launch a colossal manhunt.”

8/11/17-  Good reviews by the critics and weak ones by audiences. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

Recommended-

1) THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ANDRE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affectionate look at the life and times of André Leon Talley, the fashion maven talks about his trailblazing journey, with friends past and present sharing their thoughts on his talent, influence and enigmatic but engaging personality.”

5/25/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) SUMMER 1993– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Shaken by her mother’s death and confused by her sudden transfer to her uncle’s care, 6-year-old orphan Frida is unable to open up to her new family. Meanwhile, her relatives begin to wonder who it is they’ve welcomed into their home.”

5/25/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

3) WHO WE ARE NOW– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After serving a 10-year prison term, Beth’s first priority upon being released is to regain custody of her son. But Beth soon discovers that his caregivers — her sister and brother-in-law — have no intention of turning the boy over.”

5/25/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and good ones by audiences. TRDB.

4) IN DARKNESS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When blind pianist Sofia hears a murder take place in the upstairs apartment, her world is thrown into chaos as she soon finds herself immersed in London’s underworld and brought into contact with the victim’s father — an accused war criminal.”

5/25/18- Fair reviews by the critics and terrible ones by audiences. TRDB.

5) LES PARENTS TERRIBLES– 1948. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. ” Yvonne de Bray plays a manipulative, possessive mother, married to weakling Marcel Andre. At present, Yvonne is violently opposed to the impending marriage between her son Jean Marais to Josette Day. It gets more complicated than that: Day is Andre’s mistress, who in turn is coveted by de Bray’s sister Gabrielle Dorzat.”

5/25/18- Sounds overly complicated but has received good reviews. Note that this movie is from 1948. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) MARY SHELLEY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “At age 16, Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin shocks her family and society by running off with rakish poet Percy Shelley. But tragedy soon follows when their infant daughter dies — which leads young Mary to write “Frankenstein.””

5/25/18- Terrible reviews. TRDB.

2) THE MISANDRISTS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “While on the run from police, injured ultraleftist Volker encounters two women from a remote school for wayward girls and gladly accepts their offer of refuge — unaware that it’s a front for an organization of radical feminist terrorists.”

5/25/18- Mixed reviews but even the positive ones don’t sound so good to me. TRDB.

3) HOW TO TALK TO GIRLS AT PARTIES-

5/25/18- Awful reviews. TRDB.

4) UNCLE DREW– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just as his dream of entering a team in Harlem’s Rucker street-ball tournament is fading, Dax bumps into geriatric cager Uncle Drew and persuades him to assemble his former squad to give the youngsters a run for their money.”

5/25/18- No reviews as yet but the movie sounds stupid to me. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) A FANTASTIC WOMAN– Great movie!! About transgender and much more

REPEATS-

1) I, TONYA– I liked it very much

2) THE SHAPE OF WATER– Loved the movie

3) LADY BIRD– Enjoyed this very much

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

1) THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ANDRE– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affectionate look at the life and times of André Leon Talley, the fashion maven talks about his trailblazing journey, with friends past and present sharing their thoughts on his talent, influence and enigmatic but engaging personality.”

5/25/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

Repeats-

1) FIRST REFORMED– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100 Excellent reviews

2) THE BOOK CLUB– Bethel. Poor reviews but everybody I know has liked it very much

3) RBG- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. A great documentary!

4) POPE FRANCIS– Bethel. Fair to good reviews

5) DISOBEDIENCE– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. Very good reviews

5) ON CHESIL BEACH– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews

6) BEAST– Clearview 100. Excellent reviews

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) KEEP THE CHANGE– Great movie starring my niece Samantha Elisofon- A must see!!

2) POPE FRANCIS: A MAN OF HIS WORD– Mixed reviews.

3) THE BOOK CLUB– Weak reviews but everybody i know liked it

4) RBG– A wonderful documentary about Ruth Bader Ginsberg

5) DISOBEDIENCE– Very good reviews

6) BYE BYE GERMANY– Very good reviews

7) A BAG OF MARBLES– Excellent reviews

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- see “ABOVE” for  more info

1) KEEP THE CHANGE–

2) THE BOOK CLUB-

3) RBG-

4) DISOBEDIENCE-–

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) 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.

2) THE GREAT SILENCE– 1968. Synopsis by Netflix. “A group of greedy bounty hunters led by the brutal Loco (Klaus Kinski) pursues a band of outlaws who have escaped and are hiding out in the hills of the Utah frontier. After an innocent man is killed, Loco’s vengeful wife calls on a mute gunslinger named Silence (Jean-Louis Trintignant). Standing between the innocents and the corrupted bounty hunters, Silence decides to mete out his own brand of justice.”

5/30/18- Excellent reviews for this Western from 1968. TRDB.

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

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– Excellent reviews

2) BEAST– Excellent reviews

3) DISOBEDIENCE– Very good reviews

4) LET THE SUNSHINE IN- Good reviews

5) THE SEAGULL- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set at a Russian country estate at the end of the 19th century, this adaptation Anton Chekhov’s classic play revolves around a small group of friends and lovers, all of whom have their hearts set on the wrong person.”

5/11/18- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

6) KEEP THE CHANGE– Great movie- starring my niece Samantha Elisofon– limited screenings now but you can see it at The Movies of Lake Worth or at The Movies of Delray.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

APRIL 11, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SEND A NEWSLETTER NEXT WEEK AS I WILL BE TRANSITIONING BACK UP NORTH FROM FLORIDA

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) STRONGER- Netflix Disc.

2) THE WORK– Netflix Disc.

3) THE LAST SUIT– At the Theater

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) 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.”

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) STRONGER– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, life changes irrevocably for Jeff Bauman when a bomb goes off at his feet as he’s celebrating his completion of the 2013 Boston Marathon. Despite losing his legs, Bauman is determined to help find the culprits.”

9/19/17- Great reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

4/7/18- Done very well, this drama is more than a tearjerker and I enjoyed it very much. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) THE WORK– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Twice a year, California’s Folsom Prison opens a group therapy program to inmates and outsiders. This documentary, codirected by a court videographer who’s a veteran of the sessions, offers a look into the participants as they delve into their pasts.”

10/27/17- Great reviews by everyone. TRDB.

4/9/18- An extremely creative movie with great reviews. Personally, I had difficulty watching the “soft side” of these brutes who are in prison for violent acts. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 17-

1) MY FRIEND VICTORIA– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Years after spending a night at the sumptuous home of a wealthy Parisian family, a young woman, now fully grown, meets one of the family’s sons. Soon, the two begin a relationship — and end it … but not before she becomes pregnant.”

12/4/15- Mixed reviews but I’ll try to see this one. TRDB.

2) INTENT TO DESTROY: DEATH, DENIAL, & DEPICTION– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “As an epic movie about the 1915 Armenian genocide goes into production, filmmaker Joe Berlinger embeds himself with the crew to shoot a documentary about the challenges of telling a story that the Turkish government is still trying to suppress.”

11/10/17- Great reviews. TRDB.

3) KILLING FOR LOVE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engrossing look at a 1985 double homicide focuses on bringing to justice the killers of a Lynchburg, Virginia, husband and wife as suspicions fall on the wealthy couple’s daughter when she and her boyfriend suddenly flee abroad.”

12/15/17- Excellent reviews all around for this documentary. TRDB.

4) THE POST– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the “Washington Post” agrees to publish the leaked Pentagon Papers — which point to a secret escalation of the Vietnam War — the Nixon administration tries to block publication, setting off an epic legal and political battle.”

12/22/17- Very good reviews by the critics and just fair ones by audiences. TRDlly 

1/15/18- I found the movie enjoyable primarily as a history lesson– otherwise I would rate it just OK. TRDB. 

5) THE GREATEST SHOWMAN– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Behind “The Greatest Show on Earth” was one of history’s greatest showmen, P.T. Barnum. This musical biopic centers on Barnum’s creation of the three-ring circus and his infatuation with Swedish songbird Jenny Lind.”

12/22/17- Poor reviews by the critics but good ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) THE COMMUTER– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Insurance salesman Michael Woolrich’s quiet train ride home turns into a terrifying situation when a mysterious woman forces him to find a specific passenger before the last stop, entangling Woolrich in a deadly conspiracy.”

1/9/18- Weak reviews. TRDB.

9) HUMOR ME– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dumped by his wife and forgotten by audiences, playwright Nate Kroll has nobody to turn to except Dad, which is how Nate ends up sleeping on his father’s sofa and helping some women from his retirement community mount a production of “The Mikado.”

1/12/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) A QUIET PLACE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As a married couple and their son are enjoying their peaceful existence on a farm, a malevolent supernatural entity takes up residence in their home, forcing the family into a horrific and extended fight for their lives.”

4/4/18- Excellent reviews for this bloody horror movie. Not my kind of movie by a longshot- others will undoubtedly enjoy it. TRDB.

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this historical drama, the car accident that doomed Ted Kennedy’s presidential ambitions and resulted in the drowning death of 28-year-old Mary Jo Kopechne gets a fresh look, focusing on the cover-up that followed the crash.”

4/3/18- Fairly good reviews for this historical drama. There have been many questions about how accurate this movie is historically. TRDB.

3) WHERE IS KYRA?- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Heartbroken, unemployed and deep in debt, middle-aged Kyra returns home to care for her ailing mother. But when she dies, Kyra struggles to support herself and is soon driven to take risky measures as she faces the threat of eviction.”

4/6/18- OK reviews in general including some very good ones. TRDB.

4) LEAN ON PETE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Passing his teen years largely neglected, Charley Thompson finds a part-time job with a slightly shady horse trainer and develops a strong bond with worn-out racehorse Lean on Pete — whom Charley resolves to save from the slaughterhouse.”

4/6/18- Excellent reviews for this movie. TRDB.

5) THE HEART OF NUBA- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With Sudan’s civil war as the backdrop, this moving documentary profiles selfless American surgeon Tom Catena, who tends to a forgotten populace at a small hospital in the Nuba Mountains — an area under constant aerial bombardment by the government.”

4/6/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary– both for style and for content. TRDB.

6) BLOCKERS- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Panicked by the discovery that their daughters all intend to lose their virginity on prom night, three parents mount a clandestine mission to prevent the girls from carrying out their plans.”

4/6/18- Very good critical review but audiences really have not liked this movie. It sounds fairly stupid. TRDB.

7) 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.

8) GOOD LUCK– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “A potent critique  of capitalism, this immersive documentary follows the grueling work of miners in an underground Serbian copper mine and those toiling in an open-air gold mine in Suriname. Worlds apart, the two groups share a collective solidarity.”

4/6/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

9) SWEET COUNTRY 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Australia’s dusty outback of the 1920s is the setting for this well-crafted Western about an aboriginal stockman who faces little chance of a fair trial after killing the racist white owner of a cattle station in self-defense.”

4/6/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1)  THE MIRACLE SEASON– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Caroline Found — the undisputed star of West High School’s volleyball team — dies suddenly, the Iowa City squad is left floundering until her father and the team’s tough but caring coach inspire them to pursue the state championship.”

4/6/18- Poor reviews by the critics but good ones from audiences. I will skip this one for now. TRDB.

2) SPINNING MAN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a young woman is murdered, philosophy professor Evan Birch’s penchant for dating students raises the suspicions of a tenacious police detective and Birch’s wife, who has doubts about his alibi because of past transgressions.”

4/6/18- Poor reviews from all sources. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) BEIRUT– Bethel, Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1972, a tragedy forces U.S. envoy Mason Skiles to abandon his post in Beirut. A decade later, the ex-diplomat finds himself back in the same city — this time to help save the life of the colleague and friend he left behind.”

4/10/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) WHERE IS KYRA?- Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Heartbroken, unemployed and deep in debt, middle-aged Kyra returns home to care for her ailing mother. But when she dies, Kyra struggles to support herself and is soon driven to take risky measures as she faces the threat of eviction.”

4/6/18- OK reviews in general including some very good ones. TRDB.

3) YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE– Jacob Burns. 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) LOVE AFTER LOVE– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “An introspective examination of grief, this ensemble drama focuses on a family struggling to cope in the wake of the patriarch’s death, as their anger and inner anguish build up stress on their relationships.”

3/30/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) ISLE OF DOGS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. Good reviews I think I’ll skip it

3) THE DEATH OF STALIN- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews but the trailer looked stupid and friends have not really liked it

4) FINDING YOUR FEET– Clearview 100.

5) FINAL PORTRAIT– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews by the critics and poor ones from audiences.

6) BOMBSHELL: THE STORY OF HEDY LAMARR- Jacob Burns. I enjoyed this documentary  very much

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) 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 with some critics calling in fantastic. TRDB.

2) BACK TO BURGUNDY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Absent for more than a decade and now living in Australia, Jean returns to his native France when his dying father asks him to come home to help his siblings save the family winery. But first they’ll have to reconnect and repair their relationships.”

3/23/18- Fair reviews from the critics and much weaker ones from audiences. I does sound interesting to me and I’ll put it on the list of recommendations. TRDB.

3) CHAPPAQUIDDICK- OK reviews but there are many questions as to how accurate it is historically

4) FINDING YOUR FEET– Good reviews

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

6) THE DEATH OF STALIN– Stupid trailer and a friend did not like the movie

7) FOXTROT– Great reviews

8) BOMBSHELL: THE HEDY LAMARR STORY– I saw this wonderful documentary

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) BACK TO BURGUNDY–  2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Absent for more than a decade and now living in Australia, Jean returns to his native France when his dying father asks him to come home to help his siblings save the family winery. But first they’ll have to reconnect and repair their relationships.”

3/23/18- Fair reviews from the critics and much weaker ones from audiences. I does sound interesting to me and I’ll put it on the list of recommendations. TRDB.

2) ITZHAK– I enjoyed this documentary about the great violinist Itzhak Perlman

3) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– OK reviews but there are many questions as to how accurate it is historically

4) FOXTROT– Great reviews

5) BOMBSHELL- THE HEDY LAMARR STORY– An excellent documentary

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) 24 FRAMES– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dispensing with a narrative structure, this carefully crafted last work of Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami consists of 24 four-and-a-half-minute segments, each inspired by one of many still photos he shot over the years.”

2/2/18- Excellent views for this drama that sounds more like a documentary to me. TRDB.

2) TALL: THE AMERICAN SKYSCRAPER AND LOUIS SULLIVAN–

Very good reviews from all of the critics– some better than others. TRDB.

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

1) BACK TO BURGUNDY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Absent for more than a decade and now living in Australia, Jean returns to his native France when his dying father asks him to come home to help his siblings save the family winery. But first they’ll have to reconnect and repair their relationships.”

3/23/18- Fair reviews from the critics and much weaker ones from audiences. I does sound interesting to me and I’ll put it on the list of recommendations. TRDB.

2) THE FINAL PORTRAIT-2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “FINAL PORTRAIT is the story of the touching and offbeat friendship between American writer and art-lover James Lord and Alberto Giacometti, revealing unique insight into the beauty, frustration, profundity and sometimes the chaos of the artistic process.

3) FOXTROT– Good reviews from all. A friend of mine disliked it

4) THE DEATH OF STALIN– Good reviews but the trailer looked stupid

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

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

MARCH 29, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND PAST REVIEWS AT MY WEBSITE-

 QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE DISASTER ARTIST– Netflix Disc.

2) ONLY THE BRAVE– Netflix Disc.

3) FROM THE LAND OF THE MOON– Netflix Streaming

____________________________________________________________________________

MOIVES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE DISASTER ARTIST– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Opening to blistering reviews in 2003, “The Room” has since become a so-bad-it’s-good cult classic. This showbiz spoof provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film and the friendship between the director and star who propelled it.”

11/30/17- Excellent reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

3/22/18- I enjoyed this nutty movie very much. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) 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.

3/25/18- An excellent movie– enjoyed it thoroughly. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

3) FROM THE LAND OF THE MOON– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing adaptation of novelist Milena Agus’ “Mal de Pierres,” passionate Frenchwoman Gabrielle finds herself torn between the man she’s expected to wed and a disarming veteran of World War II.”

7/28/17- The premise sounds interesting but reviews have been negative– better from audiences than from the critics. I’d try it. TRDB.

3/27/18- Mostly negative reviews but I liked it despite some problems with the screenplay. I love Marian Cotillard. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 3-

1) LIKE ME– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In search of celebrity at any cost, young loner Kiya begins recording bizarre and often repellent “real life” episodes for an online audience that swells to viral proportions. But the effect on Kiya’s life soon becomes nightmarish.”

1/26/18- Good to “very good” reviews. TRDB.

2) THE BOY DOWNSTAIRS– 2018- Synopsis by Netflix. “Returning to New York City after living in London, aspiring writer Diana begins the nightmarish effort to find an apartment. When she finally finds the ideal digs, there’s one catch: The man whose heart she broke lives one floor below.”

2/15/18- Mixed reviews at best but I’d give it a try. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) ISLE OF DOGS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Featuring a star-studded voice cast and set against the landscape of rural Japan, this animated adventure follows a game young boy on his long and often-dangerous search to find his beloved dog.”

3/23/18- Excellent reviews for this animated movie. TRDB.

2) 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.

3) THE WORKSHOP– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Once bustling, the port town of La Ciotat has seen better times — which writers in a workshop there are trying to reflect in their collective novel. But the hostility and disturbing vision of one participant soon alarm his peers and the instructor.”

3/23/18- Very good reviews for this French drama. TRDB.

4) THE FINAL PORTRAIT– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “FINAL PORTRAIT is the story of the touching and offbeat friendship between American writer and art-lover James Lord and Alberto Giacometti, revealing unique insight into the beauty, frustration, profundity and sometimes the chaos of the artistic process.

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HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

I’VE SEEN ALL OF THE FOLLOWING AND RECOMMEND EACH OF THEM

1) CALL ME BY YOUR NAME

2) CROWN HEIGHTS

3) THE DISASTER ARTIST

4) THE FLORIDA PROJECT

5) I, TONYA

6) LADY BIRD

7) LOVING VINCENT

8) THE SHAPE OF  WATER

9) THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES=

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) ISLE OF DOGS– Jacob Burns.

2) LOVE, SIMON– Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Closeted gay teen Simon is mortified when his classmate Martin gets hold of Simon’s intimate email to his online love. With the prospect of humiliation looming, Simon reluctantly agrees to help Martin get closer to Abby, Simon’s female best friend.”

3/16/18- Mostly good reviews but none great. TRDB.

3) READY PLAYER ONE– Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a future dominated by a virtual-reality program, young Wade Watts joins a cyber scavenger hunt for the fortune left by the system’s late creator. But with the prize valued in the billions, Wade has lots of competition — including corporate foes.”

3/28/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) FOXTROT– Jacob Burns. 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Beginning with a couple’s shock upon learning that their son, an Israeli soldier, has been killed, this heart-wrenching drama then recounts his service at a lonely military checkpoint and the absurdly tragic facts surrounding his death.”

12/8/17- Great reviews from all. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) THE DEATH OF STALIN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk.

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THE LAST SUIT– Very good reviews

2) THE DEATH OF STALIN– Excellent reviews but the trailer looked stupid

3) BOMBSHELL: THE HEDY LAMARR STORY– I liked this movie very much

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) THE LAST SUIT– Very good reviews

2) ITZHAK– Fair reviews

3) 1945– I liked it a lot

4) BOMBSHELL: THE HEDY LAMARR STORY– I liked this movie very much

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) MARIE CURIE: THE COURAGE OF KNOWLEDGE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Between 1903 and 1911, scientist Marie Curie wins two Nobel Prizes and becomes the first woman offered a professional chair at the Sorbonne. But when her unorthodox love life leads to a scandal, it threatens to be her undoing.”

6/30/17- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) BOMBSHELL- THE HEDY LAMARR STORY– Excellent

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

1) THE LAST SUIT– Very good reviews and friends have liked it

2) ITZHAK– Fair reviews

3) THE DEATH OF STALIN – Excellent reviews but the trailer looked stupid

4) LOVELESS- Good reviews

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB