The Reel Dr. Bob

FILM REVIEWS #482

5/25/13- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6/7/13- A good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) MAN OF STEEL-  2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A young boy learns that he has extraordinary powers and is not of this Earth. As a young man, he journeys to discover where he came from and what he was sent here to do. But the hero in him must emerge if he is to save the world from annihilation and become the symbol of hope for all mankind.”

6/5/13-Mixed reviews in general and from the NY Times as well but I can’t imagine NOT seeing this movie. TRDB.

4) MUSEUM HOURS-  2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Anne arrives in Vienna to visit an ailing relative, she takes refuge in the Kunsthistorisches Museum and befriends Johann, a guard. Director Jem Cohen blends fiction and documentary in this meditation on how art and the world shape each other.”

6/28/13- Great reviews all around including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/17/13- While parts of this movie were both novel and interesting the movie itself was a bit boring and the one relationship in the film went nowhere. TRDB. At the Theater.

5) SIGHTSEERS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Newly coupled Chris and Tina embark on an RV road trip to take in England’s unique sights and rolling countryside. But as events and people inadvertently raise Chris’s ire, the trip takes a gory wrong turn.”

6/16/13- Very good reviews with most reviewers calling this film weird. TRDB.

6) THE HUNT- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Lucas is rebuilding his life after a bitter divorce: He has a new job and a girlfriend, and is working on his relationship with his teenage son. But an unfounded accusation of pedophilia changes everything as his community turns against him.”

6/27/13- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7/12/13- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/27/13- I liked this movie very much but it was one of the most troubling films I’ve ever sat through. TRDB.

7)  SOME GIRL(S)- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A narcissistic writer who’s about to get married embarks on a cross-country journey to reconnect with each of his exes, including his high school sweetheart, a married professor and his friend’s younger sister.

6/28/13- Mixed reviews and today’s NY Times is no exception. TRBD.

8) ADORE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this seaside drama adapted from a novella by Nobel Prize winner Doris Lessing, two lifelong friends who fall in love with each other’s teenage sons must carry out their affairs in relative secrecy.”

8/24/13- I’ve seen just 4 reviews– 2 up, 1 down and 1 neutral. TRDB.

9/6/13- Today’s NY Times called this movie absurd. TRDB.

9) TOUCHY FEELY- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Massage therapist Abby awakens one day to discover that she’s physically repulsed by human touch, a situation that will doom her career. Meanwhile, Abby’s brother Paul, a dentist with a foundering practice, experiences unexplained success.”

9/6/13- Weak reviews in general and the review in today’s NY Times was mixed– more negative than positive. TRDB.

10) JAYNE MANSFIELD’S CAR- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1969 Alabama, grizzled WW II vet Jim braces for a visit from his ex-wife’s now-widowed husband, who’s bringing her body from England to bury. Soon, the tumult of the era, the changing South and generational clashes play out in Jim’s home.”

9/13/13- Poor reviews from most and a “just OK” review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

DEC. 17-

1) 2 GUNS-  2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two special agents — one Naval intelligence, one DEA — partner for an undercover sting against a drug cartel that takes a serious wrong turn. Disavowed by their agencies, the pair goes on the run while trying to find out who set them up.”

8/2/13- A good review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews elsewhere. TRDB.

2) AIN’T THEM BODIES SAINTS- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “After escaping prison, Bob Muldoon begins a search for his girlfriend and young daughter, but their reunion doesn’t go as planned: He took the rap for a crime she committed, but now she’s involved with a lawman from their past.”

8/6/13- Mixed reviews with some very good ones and some really poor ones too. TRDB.

8/16/13- A negative review in today’s NY Times saying that the film was unconvincing. TRDB.

3) ELYSIUM- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this dystopian thriller set in 2159, the wealthiest humans move to a fabulous private space station, while life on Earth grows ever more grim. With no other options, an ex-con agrees to join a risky mission to bring balance to the two worlds.”

8/9/13- Mixed reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

4) ONE DIRECTION: THIS IS US- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Award-winning documentarian Morgan Spurlock turns his camera on boy band phenomenon One Direction in this combination concert film and backstage pass. The film follows the multiplatinum group as they prepare for their 2013 world tour.”

8/3/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times and mixed re.views from others. TRDB.

5) DEVIL’S PASS- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Five students retrace the steps of a group of hikers who famously perished in Russia’s Ural Mountains more than five decades prior. It isn’t long, however, before trouble besets the new group of adventurers in this found-footage chiller.”

8/9/13- No reviews as yet but this movie sounds very scary and I probably won’t see it even if it gets good reviews. TRDB.

8/23/13- The NY Times panned this film in today’s movie section. TRDB.

6) THE WORLD’S END- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Twenty years after attempting a marathon pub crawl, a group of friends reunites to give it another shot. Their ultimate destination is the World’s End pub, whose name turns out to be rather literal.”

8/23/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times and very good reviews in general. TRDB.

Add comment December 5th, 2013

ABOUT TIME

ABOUT TIME- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A young man who comes from a family of time-travelers changes history for the better in this romantic comedy from director Richard Curtis. During one of his trip to the past, he falls for a woman played by Rachel McAdams.”

10/29/13- A poor review in today’s NY Times and mediocre reviews at best from everyone else. TRDB.

Tags: drama, sci-fi

Add comment October 30th, 2013

GRAVITY

GRAVITY- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “As a medical engineer on her first shuttle mission embarks on a space walk with a seasoned astronaut, debris strikes their craft and destroys it — leaving the two floating through space tethered together, with no connection to Earth.”

10/2/13- Very good reviews and this film has been well received at festivals  too. TRDB.

10/4/13- A good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

10/11/13- Kind of a weak story but the special effects are definitely worth the price of admission. TRDB.

Tags: drama, sci-fi

Add comment October 2nd, 2013

VEHICLE 19

VEHICLE 19- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Recent parolee Michael Woods unsuspectingly rents a car that ends up entangling him in a dangerous web of corruption involving the local police. With his future freedom at stake, Michael has to decide whether to flee or to try and be a good citizen.”

6/14/13- Weak reviews all around including the review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

Add comment June 14th, 2013

FILM REVIEWS #459

2) THE EAST– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “As an agent for a private intelligence firm, Sarah Moss is charged with infiltrating an anarchist group whose attacks threaten her corporate clients. But after penetrating the organization, she finds herself drawn to its charismatic leader.”

5/31/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times and positive reviews from others as well for this thriller. TRDB.

3) I DO– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. ” I Do is the deeply affecting story about a man forced by discrimination to make an impossible choice. Yet while both sides of the issue passionately state their cases, what’s left in the balance are families and couples often split apart, especially those with bi-national makeups. Immigration, which most heterosexual couples take for granted as a given, complicates same-sex relationships, even in states where marriage is now legal.”

5/31/13- A poor review from everybody, including today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) THE HISTORY OF FUTURE FOLK– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Although Trius has been sent to begin the colonization of Earth, he abandons his mission upon hearing music for the first time. When an assassin from his home world arrives, Trius persuades him to join his bluegrass band and save his adopted planet.

5/31/13- The plot sounds a bit ridiculous but almost all reviews of this film, including the one in today’s NY Times have been positive. TRDB.

5) NOW YOU SEE ME– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Brainy magicians Atlas and Henley lead a troupe of illusionists who specialize in robbing from the rich, in the form of banks, and giving to the poor, their audiences, all while trying to outwit a team of FBI agents determined to bring them down.”

5/31/13- Weak reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

6) SIRIUS– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The Earth has been visited by advanced Inter-Stellar Civilizations that can travel through other dimensions faster than the speed of light. What we have learned from them about energy propulsion can bring us to a new era, but those in power have suppressed this information in order to keep us at their mercy. It is time for you to know.”

5/31/13- Uniformly critical reviews from the pros but audiences have liked it. TRDB.

7) STUDENT– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this update of Crime and Punishment, a philosophy student in Kazakhstan is so stricken by loneliness and the country’s economic uncertainties that he commits murder. He is then wracked with guilt until he confesses his crimes to the police.”

5/31/13- A very good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

8)TRIUMPH OF THE WALL– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Bill Stone sets out to document a novice stonemason’s construction of a 1,000-foot wall in rural Quebec, but his plans soon begin to unravel. When the mason realizes he’s in over his head, the film becomes a comic chronicle of determination.”

5/31/13- Miserable reviews all over, including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

9) THE WALL– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vacationing with a couple in their mountain retreat, a woman finds herself alone at the cabin one afternoon, inexplicably trapped by an invisible wall. Her isolation behind the barrier grows more surreal as hours, then days, then weeks pass.”

5/31/13- A very good review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews from others. TRDB.

2) AS COOL AS I AM– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Teenager Lucy Diamond of Great Falls, Montana, struggles with the onset of womanhood on her own, while her immature, self-centered parents, having married very young, try to recapture the youth they feel they missed.”

5/25/13- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

3) DIRTY WARS– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exploring America’s covert operations in the war on terror, investigative reporter Jeremy Scahill takes viewers on a revealing journey through drone strikes, night raids, kill lists that include U.S. citizens and secret government-condoned torture.”

5/25/13- I’ve seen just one review and it was good. TRDB.

4) FINDING JOY– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A self-absorbed writer, stuck in more ways than one, rediscovers himself, his offbeat family, and what it means to be happy when he meets Joy–a spirited young woman who asks him to write her obituary.”

5/25/13- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

5) MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In Joss Whedon’s modern take on the Shakespearean comedy, Claudio’s love for the beautiful Hero makes him a target of his friend Benedick’s mockery. But as Benedick trades barbs with Hero’s cousin Beatrice, he just may be falling in love.”

5/25/13- Very good reviews from multiple sources. TRDB.

6) SYRUP– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Scat, an unmotivated slacker with unapplied genius potential, hatches a million-dollar idea for an energy drink. But in order to see it through, he has to learn to trust his attractive corporate counterpart, who may be out to steal his idea.”

5/25/13- Just a few reviews so far and they are all bad. TRDB.

7) TIGER EYES- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Tiger Eyes marks the first major motion picture adaptation from the work of iconic author Judy Blume, whose books have sold more than 82 million copies in 41 countries. Davey is a 17 year-old girl abruptly relocated by her grieving mother to the strange “atom bomb” town of Los Alamos, New Mexico. With the sudden and violent death of her father, the displaced Davey no longer knows who to be or how to fit in.”

5/25/13- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

8)WISH YOU WERE HERE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Searching for answers about what happened to their friend who vanished while they vacationed in Cambodia together, Steph, Alice and Dave discover a shocking truth — and must deal with the consequences as more secrets are revealed.”

5/25/13- Very good reviews. TRDB.

9) YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHIN’ YET– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Upon the death of a celebrated playwright, his actor friends gather to view a recording of his play in which they’ve all appeared over the years. As they watch, memories take them back to their stage roles, and each reflects on life, love and death.”

5/25/13- Very good reviews. TRDB.

10) EVOCATEUR- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rude, crude and polarizing, Morton Downey Jr. was the profane right-wing prince of talk show hosts during his brief heyday in the late 1980s. This colorful documentary includes archival footage of Downey’s riotous show with revealing interviews.”

5/25/13- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) SHADOW DANCER– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Collette, a single mother and career IRA terrorist, is captured after an abortive bombing in London and faces an excruciating ultimatum. She can either turn against her lifelong compatriots or go to prison and be separated forever from her son.”

5/14/13- Very good reviews in general. TRDB.

2) THE EAST– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “As an agent for a private intelligence firm, Sarah Moss is charged with infiltrating an anarchist group whose attacks threaten her corporate clients. But after penetrating the organization, she finds herself drawn to its charismatic leader.”

5/31/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times and positive reviews from others as well for this thriller. TRDB.

For Independent Films in Palm Beach County go to www.lakeworthplayhouse.org  

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

Add comment June 12th, 2013

FRAGMENTS OF KUBELKA

FRAGMENTS OF KUBELKA- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This epic documentary subtly introduces the complex world view of iconic filmmaker and theoretician Peter Kubelka (born 1934, Vienna). While Kubelka’s radical and pioneering body of films is a highly condensed work of about an hour focussing on the essence of cinema.”

5/3/13- An excellent review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

Tags: documentary

Add comment May 3rd, 2013

DOWNEAST

DOWNEAST- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Set during an era of U.S. post-industrialization in which numerous factories have been exported, Downeast focuses on Antonio Bussone’s efforts to open a processing factory in rural Maine.”

3/8/13- A good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

Tags: documentary

Add comment March 10th, 2013

FILM REVIEWS #445

FEBRUARY 14, 2013
DEAR FRIENDS:

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND OLDER REVIEWS AT- www.thereelddrbob.com

THE NEXT ISSUE (#446) WILL BE IN 3 WEEKS SO THIS ISSUE WILL CONTAIN INFORMATION FOR 3 WEEKS WHEN POSSIBLE.

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE LAST 2 WEEKS-

1) IN SEARCH OF BEETHOVEN- Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach
2) HERMANO- Netflix
3) KEEP THE LIGHTS ON- Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW DURING THE LAST 2 WEEKS AT THE THEATER-

1) IN SEARCH OF BEETHOVEN- 2009. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Juliet Stevenson (Truly, Madly, Deeply) narrates this straightforward documentary account of the life of composer Ludwig van Beethoven, covering all the major highlights from his birth in 1770 through his death in 1827. Writer-director Phil Grabsky skirts around the option of dramatic period reenactments, and instead opts for an impressionistic approach. He builds much of the film around the basic foundational material of interviews and studio performances of the great man’s work by artists including Ronald Brautigam, Emanuel Ax, and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra. Grabsky also offsets Stevenson’s traditional chronicle of Beethoven’s life with letters from the composer, read by David Dawson, that unveil an intense and almost belligerent side to the musical giant, leavened with offbeat humor.” 2/10/13-I saw this documentary at the Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach and found it very insightful. I thoroughly enjoyed the music and the “talking heads” were very interesting and personal so we really learned about the man and the music. TRDB.
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MOVIES I SAW DURING THE LAST 2 WEEKS AT HOME-

1) SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Marty, a struggling writer, needs inspiration to finish his screenplay Seven Psychopaths. He gets plenty of it when his oddball friends nab a crazed gangster’s beloved pooch and he inadvertently gets caught up in all the action.”Very good reviews. TRDB. 10/12/12- Fair review at best in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 2/3/13- For a brief period I found this movie interesting, creative and even funny but the novelty wore off quickly and while I did see the entire movie I can’t say that I liked it. TRDB. Netflix.

2) UNFORGIVABLE- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Francis (André Dussollier) is a successful crime writer who moves to Venice to work on his next novel. When he meets model-turned-real-estate-agent Judith (Carole Bouquet), he is instantly infatuated. Francis and Judith eventually marry and move to a remote house on Torcello Island but Francis’ newfound happiness hinders his writing. Obsessing over what Judith does while at work, he hires a young ex-convict to investigate. As Judith’s sexual past is revealed both men become increasing fixated on the mysterious woman. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Venice, Unforgivable examines the consequences of unresolved past relationships and their far-reaching effects into the future.” 6/29/12- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 2/4/13- I found this movie very interesting and thought provoking. To be honest, I can’t really dislike a movie with great scenes of Venice. TRDB.

3) HERMANO- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Brothers Daniel and Julio love soccer, but while Julio focuses on providing for their family, Daniel dreams about playing professionally. When a pro scout comes to watch them play, they face an agonizing choice between family and their sport.” 8/24/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. Mixed professional reviews in general but audiences have liked it a lot. TRDB. 2/11/13- I’ll give this movie a mixed review. A bit contrived, a bit formulaic but still has enough going for it for a recommendation. TRDB.

4) KEEP THE LIGHTS ON- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The physical romance between a gay filmmaker and an attorney soon evolves into a more complex relationship, laced with conflicting desires. Over several turbulent years, both men struggle to build a true acceptance of the other’s strengths and flaws.” Great early reviews in general and a very good one in the NY Times on 9/7/12. Audiences have been a bit less effusive. TRDB. 2/13/13- A very well acted and poignant drama about the relationship between two gay men but it could be about any two people. I liked it very much. TRDB. Netflix.
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CAME TO NETFLIX ON FEB. 12-

1) DANGEROUS LIAISONS- 1988. Directed by Stephen Frears. Starring Glenn Close, John Malkovich and Michelle Pfeiffer. Close and Malkovich play a pair of scheming nobles in Paris and in particular Close bets Malkovich that he can’t bed Pfeiffer and get written proof of the conquest. Considered somewhat of a classic, I did enjoy the film but not with rave reviews.
COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 19-

1) FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL…- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fate lands former college rivals Lauren and Kate together in the same apartment, where they launch a phone sex line to make ends meet. As business booms, the unlikely partners find themselves too busy (and too successful) to harbor old grudges.”Sounds a bit dumb but this film has gotten very good reviews. TRDB. 8/31/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) END OF WATCH- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Officers Taylor and Zavala patrol the streets of South Central Los Angeles, an area of the city ruled by gangs and riddled with drug violence. Their perilous beat is captured on security footage and with the HD cameras of cops, criminals and victims.”Great reviews. TRDB. 9/21/12- I think that today’s review in the NY Times was a mixed one, the review undoubtedly more difficult to explain than the movie. TRDB.

3) FOR ELLEN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Would-be rock star Joby is forced to duel for joint custody of his 6-year-old daughter, Ellen, when his wife decides to end their marriage. Long absent from his daughter’s life, he must now convince the court that he deserves to share in her future.” Weak professional and audience reviews. TRDB. 9/7/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) HIPSTERS- 2008. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this hit Russian musical, a group of friends flaunts Soviet authority in 1950s Moscow by embracing jazz. When Communist Mels (Anton Shagin) falls for Polly (Oksana Akinshina), a free-spirited jazz fan, he risks losing his party membership by associating with her rebellious crew. Equally smitten, Polly introduces her new beau to jazz and other forbidden Western delights. Writer-director Valery Todorovsky helms this colorful take on the Cold War.” 2/24/12- OK review in today’s NY Times but mostly good reviews from others. TRDB.

5) UNDEFEATED- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Cinéma vérité tackles football in this inspirational profile of an inner-city Memphis high school football team, whose downtrodden players combine with a dedicated volunteer coach in a valiant effort to reach the school’s first-ever playoff game.” Good audience reaction but no professional reviews as yet. TRDB. 2/17/12- Excellent reviews in today’s NY Times and elsewhere for this nominated film for Best Documentary for this year’s Academy Awards. TRDB.

6) NORTH SEA TEXAS- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. Pim, an introverted child, occupies his time drawing and fantasizing while keeping his emerging desires a secret. As a teenager, he grows infatuated with Gino, the handsome boy next door. When a hunky young man from the local fair starts living with Pim and his mother, he seizes the opportunity to leave home and move in with Gino’s family. His plan backfires as Gino departs, romancing and living with a girl from across the border. It seems like Pim’s dreams will never come true, but then one rainy day Gino returns home.” 11/2/12- A good review in today’s NY Times. Other critics and audiences have liked it also. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, FEB. 26-

1) THE MASTER- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A heavy-drinking loaner named Freddie finds some semblance of a family when he stumbles onto the ship of Lancaster Dodd, the charismatic leader of a new “religion” — some say cult — he forms after World War II.” A few early reviewers said this was a great piece of work. TRDB. 9/14/12- Great review in today’s NY Times but many of my friends did not like this movie. TRDB.

2) MADRID, 1987- Synopsis by Netflix. “During the political unrest of 1987, Ángela meets elderly journalist Miguel for an interview and ends up his captive, locked with him in his bathroom. Over the next 24 hours, they engage in verbal sparring that parallels the nation’s upheaval.” Here’s what Rotten Tomatoes had to say– “Madrid, 1987 …is a two-character story with a verbose discourse on writing, journalism, careerism, aging and politics. Shot mostly within a very constricted space, the story follows an older, celebrated journalist Miguel (José Sacristán) who meets the beautiful and coy journalism-student Angela (María Valverde) to give an interview but becomes intent upon seducing her. They end up spending time in the most unusual manner …discussing literature, prose and career trajectories …gradually divulging little insights into their own selves as we start to understand the old journalist’s cynicism and the young protégé’s intentions. 10/12/12- A good review in the NY Times. TRDB.

3) OVER YOUR CITIES GRASS WILL GROW- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Modern artist Anselm Kiefer and his monumental landscape creation at Barjac, France — a vast complex including lakes, bridges, caves and galleries displaying Kiefer’s other work — are the focus of this documentary from Sophie Fiennes. The artist’s ruminations on the creative process and his aims and ambitions are intercut with a careful study of the art itself, shining a spotlight on the processes at work in Kiefer’s expanding mini-universe.” Mixed reviews, some calling it interesting and others calling it a slumberous bore. TRDB.

4) HOW TO SURVIVE A PLAGUE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This passionate documentary focuses on the grass-roots crusade in the 1980s and ’90s to speed up efforts at developing treatments for the HIV virus. The film follows AIDS activists to Washington, where they challenge the government to act.” Excellent reviews so far. TRDB.

5) ESCAPE FIRE: THE FIGHT TO RESCUE AMERICAN HEALTHCARE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary starkly outlines the crises the United States faces in its quest to provide affordable medical care to the nation’s citizens. In response to these problems, the filmmakers propose lower-cost alternatives to high-tech medicine.” No reviews as yet and I hope that this isn’t a campaign advertisement. TRDB. 10/5/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) SILENT SOULS- 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Paul Hanganu (Mimi Branescu) is in love with two women: Adriana (Mirela Oprisor), his wife of 10 years, and Raluca (Maria Popistasu), his mistress of the past several months. Now, at a crossroads, Paul is forced to choose between them in this drama from Romanian director Radu Muntean. Combining careful staging and emotionally intense dialogue, the film presents an unblinking profile of a man in crisis and the women whose lives he’s ensnared.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) THIS IS NOT A FILM- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the Iranian government banned director Jafar Panahi from making a film for 20 years, he titled his next project This Is Not a Film. The resulting documentary covers a day in Panahi’s life as he reflects on his unhappy situation.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8)THE LONELIEST PLANET- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Alex and Nica, a young engaged couple, are so eager to take a serious walking trek through Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains that they hire a local guide. Traveling deep into the wild landscape, however, the emotional atmosphere shifts for the trio.” 10/26/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. I saw 10 minutes of this movie on Comcast on Demand previews and I almost fell asleep. TRDB.

9) CHICKEN WITH PLUMS- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1950s Tehran, a musician’s life comes undone: an old flame doesn’t recognize him, his violin is broken and he becomes bedridden with worry. As he spirals into despair without the ability to play music, he teeters on the edge of oblivion.” 8/17/12- A good review in today’s NY Times and very good professional reviews in general. Fairly good audience reaction as well. TRDB.

10) THE EYE OF THE STORM- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “A woman recently divorced from a French prince and her washed-up actor brother return home to Australia, hoping to reconcile with their dying mother. But neither is prepared for the ensuing drama that brings the dread of their childhood back to life.” Rotten Tomatoes had this to say– “In the Sydney suburb of Centennial Park, two nurses, a housekeeper and a solicitor attend to Elizabeth Hunter as her expatriate son and daughter convene at her deathbed. But in dying, as in living, Mrs. Hunter remains a powerful force on those who surround her. Based on the novel by Nobel Prize winner Patrick White, The Eye of the Storm is a savage exploration of family relationships – and the sharp undercurrents of love and hate, comedy and tragedy, which define them.” 9/7/12- Poor reviews for this movie but it sounds interesting and I’ll probably see it eventually. TRDB.

11) HOLY MOTORS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This surreal drama from France follows DL, who becomes many different individuals living very different lives over a 24-hour period — switching effortlessly from man to woman, impoverished to affluent, young to old, and even assassin to family man.” Excellent reviews so far. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON MARCH 5-

1) GUN HILL ROAD- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After serving a three-year stint in prison, tough-guy Enrique (Esai Morales) returns to his family in the Bronx to find that his wife (Judy Reyes) is a virtual stranger to him and, worse, his son (Harmony Santana) is in the middle of a sexual identity crisis. Now Enrique must find a way to accept his altered life or risk losing control and ending up back in jail. Rashaad Ernesto Green directs this compelling drama.” OK reviews so far. TRDB. 8/5/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) CALIFORNIA SOLO- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a drunken driving arrest in Los Angeles, a has-been rock star must prove his absence would cause hardship to a relative or face deportation to Scotland. As he contacts his ex-wife and daughter, he must face long-buried issues.”Rotten Tomatoes had this to say— “Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting) stars in this touching, human story about post-fame life and personal redemption. Former Britpop rocker Lachlan MacAldonich (Carlyle) has settled into a comfortably numb existence just outside Los Angeles. By day, he works on an organic farm and travels regularly to the city’s farmers’ markets to sell produce. By night, he retreats to his crummy apartment to record “Flame-Outs,” his podcast that recounts the tragic deaths of great musicians. The only spark in his humdrum existence is Beau (Alexia Rasmussen), a lovely struggling actress and amateur chef. One night, Lachlan gets pulled over for a DUI, a charge that dredges up his past drug offense and threatens him with deportation. Lachlan’s only hope of staying in the U.S. is proving that his removal would cause “extreme hardship” to a U.S. citizen spouse or relative, so he contacts his estranged ex-wife and daughter, raising past demons that he must finally confront. Danny Masterson co-stars. Written and directed by Marshall Lewy.”OK reviews so far. TRDB. 11/30/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) A LATE QUARTET- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tempers flare, old jealousies reignite and new passions are sparked when the members of a world-renowned string quartet are preparing to celebrate their 25th anniversary and learn that their leader must step down due to a grim medical diagnosis.” 11/2/12- A fairly good review in today’s NY Times, especially for the actors. Other critics have liked it as well and so have audiences. TRDB. 11/11/12- I enjoyed this movie very much. Great acting and a good story with a touching screenplay. A bit of schmaltz at the end was unnecessary. TRDB. 

4) THE INTOUCHABLES- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB. 5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB. 5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB. 6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie that proves Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB.

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MOVIES THAT OPENED IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON JAN. 31-

FEB.1-

1) THE LAST GLADIATORS- 2013- Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Alex Gibney takes an unprecedented look at the National Hockey League’s most feared enforcers and explores the career of Chris “Knuckles” Nilan. The role was simple: protect their teammates no matter the cost.” 2/1/13-Mixed early reviews but the NY Times gave this movie a good review in today’s critique. TRDB.

2) JOHN DIES AT THE END- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “It’s a drug that promises an out-of-body experience with each hit. On the street they call it Soy Sauce, and users drift across time and dimensions. But some who come back are no longer human. Suddenly a silent otherworldly invasion is underway, and mankind needs a hero. What it gets instead is John and David, a pair of college dropouts who can barely hold down jobs. Can these two stop the oncoming horror in time to save humanity? No. No, they can’t.” 2/1/13- This movie sounds stupid but the NY Times and others have given it good reviews. A few have not. TRDB.

3) AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unemployed adman Roberto is struggling to revive his career when a whimsical visit to the spot where he and his wife honeymooned leads to a potentially deadly accident. Ever the spin doctor, he skillfully turns the event into a media feeding frenzy.” 1/5/13- Poor reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) CAESAR MUST DIE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Brothers Paolo and Vittorio Taviani take their cameras inside Rome’s Rebbibia Prison as its inmates stage a production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The film reveals the Bard’s power to enlighten as the men connect the play to their own lives.” 2/6/13- Good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.
5) DAVID- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A single name — David — connects the destinies of three men living in different eras and geographies in this Hindi action thriller: 1975 David lives in London and works for the Mob; 1999 David is a Mumbai teen; and 2010 David is a Goa fisherman.” 1/5/13- A weak review in today’s NY Times and a fair one elsewhere. TRDB.

MOVIES THAT OPENED ON FEB. 8 IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT LAST WEEK-

1) LIKE SOMEONE IN LOVE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This meditative drama focuses on an encounter between two strangers in Tokyo: a young woman working as a call girl and a retired college professor. The two soon form a bond beyond their initial meeting, which begins to confuse the girl’s boyfriend.”
Good early reviews. TRDB.

2) NO- 2012- Synopsis by Netflix. “In this engaging drama from Chile, Gael García Bernal portrays René Saavedra, a hot-shot ad executive who creates a controversial media campaign opposing military dictator Augusto Pinochet during the referendum on his presidency in 1988.”
Very good reviews so far. TRDB.

3) IDENTITY THIEF- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Unlimited funds have allowed Diana (McCarthy) to live it up on the outskirts of Miami, where the queen of retail buys whatever strikes her fancy. There’s only one glitch: The ID she’s using to finance these sprees reads “Sandy Bigelow Patterson”….and it belongs to an accounts rep (Bateman) who lives halfway across the U.S. With only one week to hunt down the con artist before his world implodes, the real Sandy Bigelow Patterson heads south to confront the woman with an all-access pass to his life. And as he attempts to bribe, coax and wrangle her the 2,000 miles to Denver, one easy target will discover just how tough it is to get your name back.” 2/8/13- Poor review all around and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

4) A RUBBERBAND IS AN UNLIKELY INSTRUMENT- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A Rubberband is an Unlikely Instrument is a lyrical exploration of a Brooklyn couple as they navigate their path amidst rapidly changing political, social, financial and spiritual landscapes. Walter Baker is an eccentric, multi-instrumentalist struggling to maintain balance between creating art, making ends meet and raising his twelve year old son with his third wife, a poet. Artistically and philosophically situated on the fringes of mainstream culture, Baker grasps to bear the roles of family man, business owner and aspiring composer.” 2/8/13- Mixed early reviews but the NY Times gave it an OK review today. TRDB.

5) NIGHT ACROSS THE STREET- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A free-flowing contemplation on aging and death inspired by the stories of Hernán del Solar, director Raoul Ruiz’s final film follows as elderly man who revisits moments of his youth as he awaits the stranger he believes will kill him.” 2/8/13- Very good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) ONCE EVERY DAY- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Highly visual, complexly edited, and without a conventional narrative ‘story’, ONCE EVERY DAY nevertheless circles a secret theme as it zeros in on a group of 25 people acting out a series of semi-ritualistic behavior patterns. But their eccentric impulses are aborted in unpredictable ways with each new attempt at action or development. As the film cuts between colored tableaus, bleached-out action sequences, expressionistic black-and-white confrontations, and slow immersion in pure light, we repeatedly hear the voices of the invisible director (Foreman) and his technicians, whispering off-camera instructions and comments to the characters – who are of course ‘actors’ as well as disturbed and inhibited human beings. The implicit question of the film becomes: could this be life itself – visibly re-making itself as art?” 2/8/13- Mixed reviews. The NY Times liked it. TRDB.

7) PORFIRIO- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This no-holds-barred docudrama examines the day-to-day life of Porfirio Ramirez Aldana, a once-wealthy Colombian man who became paralyzed after being shot by the police — and then went on to commit a shocking crime.” 2/8/13- Mixed reviews– the NY Times did not like it. TRDB.
MOVIES THAT ARE OPENING ON FEB. 15-

1) SAFE HAVEN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This adaptation of the novel by Nicholas Sparks centers on a mysterious woman who arrives in a small North Carolina town and begins a new life but remains haunted by the terrifying secret that prompted her to travel across the country.”
No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) THE BITTER BUDDHA- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary follows unconventional comedian Eddie Pepitone as he prepares for a show in New York City, all the while struggling with self-doubt, sobriety and a challenging family history.”
No reviews as yet. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

FEB. 15–FEB. 21

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW- NONE

REPEATS-

1) ARBITRAGE- I liked this movie a lot
2) BACHLORETTE- Fair reviews at best
3) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD- I enjoyed the film
4) CENTRAL PARK FIVE- Very good reviews
5) FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL—- OK reviews
6) HOPE SPRINGS- I liked this movie very much
7) JOHN DIES AT THE END- Good reviews
8)MOONRISE KINGDOM- I liked it
9) THE MULBERRY TREE- Very good reviews
10) MY BEST ENEMY- A good movie
11) OCTOBER BABY- Awful professional reviews
12) PEOPLE LIKE US-  I enjoyed the movie despite some light fluff. Some good dialogue as well
13) THE PUSHER- OK reviews but critics said the original was better
14) SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN- Most liked this a lot but I found it full of Hollywood
15) THE SESSIONS- I loved this movie
16) SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS- I didn’t care for the movie
17) SOUND CITY- Very good reviews
18)SUPPORTING CHARACTERS- Very good reviews
19) TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- Not great but I liked it
20) WAITING FOR LIGHTNING- The NY Times called this movie boring
21) WALK AWAY RENEE- Weak reviews from most critics
22) WOMAN IN THE FIFTH- I liked it
23) THE WORDS- I enjoyed this movie
24) YELLING TO THE SKY- Mixed reviews

Cablevision Link– http://www.optimum.net/VOD/movies?cat=Movies+On+Demand%2FIndependent+Films%2FIFC+In+Theaters

DirecTV- www.directv.com/DTVAPP/listing/ppvMovies.jsp

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS- (Westchester and Fairfield Counties)

NEW IN THE BURBS- NONE

REPEATS-

1) AMOUR- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or winner, Georges and Anne, retired music teachers in their eighties, have a time-tested love. But as Anne’s health fails, Georges becomes her caregiver, and the couple’s bond is tested like never before.” 12/19/12- Great reviews all around and especially in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) QUARTET- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A trio of retired opera singers’ annual celebration of Verdi’s birthday sours when their estranged fourth member shows up but refuses to sing. Tensions rise and diva drama erupts — will personal problems prevent the show from going on?” Reviews are very good. TRDB.

3) SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a four-year stay in a psychiatric institution, former teacher Pat Peoples has no choice but to move back in with his mother. While he’s trying in vain to reunite with his wife, Pat meets another woman fated to change his life.”Very good reviews. TRDB. 11/16/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 12/4/12- A very enjoyable piece of fluff that had a few lessons about life as well. TRDB.

4) SIDE EFFECTS- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Emily Hawkins copes with her depression by taking large numbers of prescription medication. But when her emotions spiral out of control due to the upcoming release of her husband from prison, she turns to a new medication, with unforeseen results.” 2/8/13-Fairly good reviews in general and an OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) ARGO- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1979, when Iranian militants seize the American embassy, six Americans slip into the Canadian embassy for protection, prompting the CIA to concoct an elaborate plot to rescue them by pretending that they are filmmakers rather than diplomats.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 10/25/12- A fascinating and apparently true story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. TRDB.

6) THE IMPOSSIBLE- Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tracking one family’s harrowing experiences, this gripping drama depicts the chaos generated by the massive 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia. On December 26, Maria, Henry and their sons are vacationing in Thailand when unthinkable disaster strikes.” 12/21/12- Basically a good review of the movie itself in today’s NY Times but the reviewer noted that the story was about wealthy tourists and had little to do with the thousands of native Asians who suffered. TRDB.

7)  LIFE OF PI- Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on Yann Martel’s best-selling novel, this coming-of-age tale recounts the adventures of Pi, an Indian boy who is the sole survivor of a shipwreck. Pi finds himself on a lifeboat with only some zoo animals for company.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 1/2/13- I enjoyed this movie very much especially the creative cinematography. See it in 3D if you can. TRDB.

8)ZERO DARK THIRTY- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. Zero Dark Thirty reunites the Oscar winning team of director-producer Kathryn Bigelow and writer-producer Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker) for the story of history’s greatest manhunt for the world’s most dangerous man.”Great early reviews. TRDB. 1/29/13- I enjoyed the last 45 min. during the raid on Bin Laden’s compound because of its historical significance and suspense despite knowing the outcome. The first hour and a half was, for me, well summed up by a reviewer when he said– “A silly film that never remotely deserved an Oscar nomination.” TRDB.

9) LINCOLN- Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Steven Spielberg takes on the towering legacy of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on his stewardship of the Union during the Civil War years. The biographical saga also reveals the conflicts within Lincoln’s cabinet regarding the war and abolition.”11/9/12- The NY Times gave this a great review today. TRDB. 11/18/12- There have been many critics raving about this movie. Day-Lewis gave a wonderful performance but I found the movie uninspiring and I felt that it was too long, too preachy and that there were too many characters to keep track of. TRDB.

10) LES MISERABLES- Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The musical version of Victor Hugo’s epic tale of love and sacrifice, first produced for the stage in 1985, now receives the big-screen treatment. The bloody era of the French Revolution is the backdrop to Jean Valjean’s long struggle for redemption.”Fairly good reviews even as some critics complained that the movie was poorly directed. TRDB. 12/25/12- I enjoyed this movie very much even though I generally have trouble getting into musicals on the screen. TRDB.
For Independent Films in Your Neighborhood go to- www.emergingpictures.com

For Independent Films in Palm Beach County go to www.lakeworthplayhouse.org  

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!
THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment February 13th, 2013

FILM REVIEWS #444

JANUARY 31, 2013
DEAR FRIENDS:

I WILL BE AWAY FROM MY FLORIDA DESK FOR A FEW DAYS SO THIS NEWSLETTER WILL INCLUDE INFORMATION FOR THE NEXT 2 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE-

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND OLDER REVIEWS AT- www.thereeldrbob.com

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) 5 BROKEN CAMERAS- Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) ZERO DARK THIRTY- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. Zero Dark Thirty reunites the Oscar winning team of director-producer Kathryn Bigelow and writer-producer Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker) for the story of history’s greatest manhunt for the world’s most dangerous man.”Great early reviews. TRDB. 1/29/13- I enjoyed the last 45 min. during the raid on Bin Laden’s compound because of its historical significance and suspense despite knowing the outcome. The first hour and a half was, for me, well summed up by a reviewer when he said– “A silly film that never remotely deserved an Oscar nomination.” TRDB.
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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) 5 BROKEN CAMERAS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this moving documentary, a Palestinian farmer chronicles his village’s nonviolent resistance to the presence of encroaching Israeli settlers and military. As camera after camera gets shot or otherwise destroyed, the farmer continues filming.”A few excellent reviews and mostly good ones. TRDB. 1/28/13- A well done home spun documentary about the Palestinian resistance presented in a one-sided manner. It’s also about the filmmaker’s need to film and what it means to him. TRDB.

2) THE GOOD DOCTOR- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Martin Blake, a young doctor setting out to establish his reputation, falls into an illicit romance with teenage patient Diane. When a colleague learns of the forbidden relationship, he uses the information to blackmail Dr. Blake for drugs.” 8/31/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB. 1/28/13- Trash and I turned it off. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 5-

1) THE POOL- Premise by Netflix. “In this seriocomic study of class differences in India, a young hotel worker becomes obsessed with a swimming pool at an opulent mansion in Panjom, Goa. His life takes a wild turn when he meets the mysterious family that arrives at the house. The film, a World Cinema Dramatic Competition entry at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival, is the narrative feature debut of director and co-writer Chris Smith, who helmed the famed documentary American Movie.”1/27/10- I found this movie very interesting and very well done. I’d definitely recommend it when it comes to Netflix. I saw it on the Sundance Channel. TRDB.

2) CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Andy Samberg) met in high school, married young and are growing apart. Now thirty, Celeste is the driven owner of her own media consulting firm, Jesse is once again unemployed and in no particular rush to do anything with his life. Celeste is convinced that divorcing Jesse is the right thing to do — she is on her way up, he is on his way nowhere, and if they do it now instead of later, they can remain supportive friends. Jesse passively accepts this transition into friendship, even though he is still in love with her. As the reality of their separation sets in, Celeste slowly and painfully realizes she has been cavalier about their relationship, and her decision, which once seemed mature and progressive, now seems impulsive and selfish. But her timing with Jesse is less than fortuitous…”Fairly good reviews. TRDB. 8/3/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) LITTLE WHITE LIES- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Little White Lies follows a group of longtime friends who reunite for their annual beach vacation despite a traumatic accident involving one of their own. During their seaside getaway, they all make discoveries about each other and are finally forced to own up to the little white lies they’ve been telling one another — and themselves.”8/24/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews in general. TRDB.

4) SIDE BY SIDE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Keanu Reeves produced and narrates this engaging documentary about the history of digital cinema technology and its vast impact on the movie industry. Despite the digital takeover, many fans still embrace the unique qualities of celluloid film.” 8/31/12- Great reviews from critics and audiences alike. The NY Times loved it. TRDB.

5) IN OUR NATURE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Seth and Andie had the perfect weekend getaway planned, until a booking error put Seth’s estranged father and his girlfriend in the same condo. The four agree to make the best of the unexpected arrangement, with unexpected consequences for all.”Fair early reviews. TRDB.

6) DIANA VREELAND: THE EYE HAS TO TRAVEL- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intimate and loving portrait of the legendary arbiter of fashion, art and culture illustrates the many stages of Vreeland’s remarkable life. Born in Paris in 1903, she was to become New York’s “Empress of Fashion” and a celebrated Vogue editor.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7) SOMEWHERE BETWEEN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Questions of race, identity and heritage are explored through the lives of young American women growing up as adoptees from China. These four distinct individuals reflect on their experiences as members of transracial families.” 8/24/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times but fairly good critical reviews otherwise. Audience reviews are mixed. TRDB.

8)PAUL WILLIAMS STILL ALIVE- 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “He won Grammys and an Academy Award; wrote many #1 songs; starred in a Brian DePalma movie; put out his own hit records and albums; was a guest on The Tonight Show fifty times; and is the president of ASCAP…and you might not have heard of him. In the 1970’s, Paul Williams was the singer / actor / songwriter that emotional, alienated teenage boys all over the world wanted to be, a sex symbol before MTV, when sex symbols could be 5″2 and sing songs about loneliness with the Muppets. A wistful musical journey that will re-introduce a new generation to Williams’ soulful classics, Paul Williams: Still Alive is the charmingly self-narrated story of Stephen Kessler’s lifelong obsession with the former superstar-and what happens when the nostalgic filmmaker finally catches up with him.”Good review in the NY Times on 6/8/12 despite a negative reaction to the director who may have taken advantage of the subject more for personal gain. TRDB.

9) HERE COMES THE BOOM- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When cutbacks threaten his high school’s music program, physics teacher Scott Voss decides to moonlight as a mixed martial arts fighter in order to raise the money that would save the program.”10/12/12- Just an OK review for this movie that was called “harmless fun.”  TRDB

10) DEADFALL- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the run after a casino heist, siblings Addison and Liza split up. When Liza gets a ride from a prison parolee heading to his parents’ home for Thanksgiving, unexpected events lead the two families toward a collision in this suspenseful thriller.” 12/7/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but others haven’t been so generous. TRDB.
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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, FEB. 12-

1) THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this engaging coming-of-age tale based on the best-selling novel by Stephen Chbosky, a shy freshman struggling with depression deals with his best friend’s suicide and his first love — and finds help from two seniors who take an interest in him.” Mixed reviews, mostly good. TRDB. 9/21/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) BULLY- 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directed by Sundance and Emmy-award winning filmmaker, Lee Hirsch, The Bully Project is a beautifully cinematic, character-driven documentary. At its heart are those with huge stakes in this issue whose stories each represent a different facet of America’s bullying crisis. The Bully Project follows five kids and families over the course of a school year. Stories include two families who have lost children to suicide and a mother awaiting the fate of her 14-year-old daughter who has been incarcerated after bringing a gun on her school bus. With an intimate glimpse into homes, classrooms, cafeterias and principals’ offices, the film offers insight into the often cruel world of the lives of bullied children.”  Very good early reviews. TRDB. 3/31/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 4/17/12- A very powerful documentary that should be required viewing for all parents. TRDB.

3) THE KID WITH A BIKE- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being abandoned by his father, preteen Cyril fills with rage, and when good-hearted hairdresser Samantha tries to help him, the disillusioned boy is torn between his need to lash out at the world and his desire for love and stability.” Great early reviews. TRDB. 3/16/12- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 4/2/12- The actor who played the kid was great and the story was a heartening act of love. There were also a few terrific scenes like the scene in a car when the boy is very upset. A better understanding of the woman’s motivation would have helped me but the movie was excellent never-the-less. TRDB.

4) ROBOT AND FRANK- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Retired cat burglar Frank worries his adult children, who present him with a robot caretaker to look after his house and keep him company. Realizing that his new companion would make the perfect accomplice, Frank plans a return to his old profession.” Very good early reviews. TRDB. 8/17/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times and most critics have liked it. TRDB. 8/24/12- Frank Langella is great as usual in this funny, poignant and ultimately sad drama. TRDB.

5) WON’T BACK DOWN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, two women from different classes and races (Viola Davis and Maggie Gyllenhaal) draw on their common bond of motherhood to fight institutional inertia and an antagonistic bureaucracy to improve an inner-city school.” There was reference to this movie in Frank Bruni’s Op-Ed piece in the Sunday, 8/19/12 NY Times. TRDB. 9/28/12- Weak reviews for this film in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) GIRL MODEL- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Documentarians Ashley Sabin and David Redmon take an unflinching look at the modeling industry, focusing on a conflicted American scout — herself a former model — who recruits poverty-stricken adolescent girls from Russia to work in Japan.” 9/7/12- Good early reviews in general but a review in today’s NY Times is weak. TRDB.

7) DANGEROUS LIAISONS- 1988. Directed by Stephen Frears. Starring Glenn Close, John Malkovich and Michelle Pfeiffer. Close and Malkovich play a pair of scheming nobles in Paris and in particular Close bets Malkovich that he can’t bed Pfeiffer and get written proof of the conquest. Considered somewhat of a classic, I did enjoy the film but not with rave reviews. Netflix Streaming. 11/09

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MOVIES THAT OPENED LAST WEEK IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON JAN. 24-

1) THE TASTE OF MONEY- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this suspenseful erotic drama, the private male secretary and lover of Madam Baek, a Korean conglomerate’s middle-aged matriarch, falls for her more genuine daughter. Meanwhile, Madam Baek’s husband has an affair with the Filipino nanny.” 1/25/13- Mostly negative reviews but the NY Times liked this film very much. TRDB.

2) NANA- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This spare, haunting, deceptively slight film – marking the feature debut of French filmmaker Valerie Massadian – zeroes in on the behavior and existential state of its 4-year-old protagonist. Growing up in rural France, Nana lives in a seemingly idyllic environment, but Massadian increasingly complicates our notion of the child’s innocence. Opening with a matter-of-fact depiction of the butchering of a pig (Nana lives on her grandfather’s pig farm), the film gradually tightens its focus to convey the child’s perspective as she entertains herself in solitude.” 1/25/13- Great review in today’s NY Times- mixed reviews from others. TRDB.

3) SUPPORTING CHARACTERS- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Crack film editors Nick and Darryl are hired to save a movie in desperate need of their skills, a gig that turns out to be filled with bad luck. Both men’s relationships are upended and their partnership is tested by the film’s delusional director.” 1/25/13- Good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

4) KNIFE FIGHT- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This satirical drama follows a cunning political strategist as he spins the truth to keep his misbehaving governor and senator clients out of trouble. But when he starts working for an unlikely client, his take-no-prisoners game changes.” 1/25/13- Poor reviews all around including today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) YOSSI- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “While driving through a remote part of Israel, a closeted gay doctor crosses paths with a group of soldiers who inspire him to live life in the open. Ohad Knoller reprises the title role in this sequel to Yossi & Jagger.” 1/25/13- Very good reviews in general but a poor one from the NY Times today. TRDB.
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MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEK (Feb. 1)-

1) THE GATEKEEPERS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Meet six leaders of Israel’s secret service, the Shin Bet, which has dealt with conflict amid the quest for peace for nearly 50 years. For the first time, these men discuss the challenging truths and consequences of their counterterrorism mission.”Excellent reviews all around. TRDB.

2) KOCH- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Former Mayor Ed Koch is the quintessential New Yorker. Still ferocious, charismatic, and hilariously blunt, the now 87-year-old Koch ruled New York from 1978 to 1989-a down-and-dirty decade of grit, graffiti, near-bankruptcy and rampant crime. First-time filmmaker (and former Wall Street Journal reporter) Neil Barsky has crafted an intimate and revealing portrait of this intensely private man, his legacy as a political titan, and the town he helped transform.”No reviews as yet. TRDB.

3) SOUND CITY- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Deep in the San Fernando Valley, amidst rows of dilapidated warehouses, was rock n’ roll’s best kept secret: Sound City. America’s greatest unsung recording studio housed a one-of-a-kind console, and as its legend grew, seminal bands and artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Neil Young, Rick Springfield, Tom Petty, Metallica and Nirvana all came out to put magic to tape. Directed by Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters) and featuring interviews and performances from iconic musicians.”I’ve seen only one review and it’s very good. TRDB.

4) MUMIA: LONG DISTANCE REVOLUTIONARY- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Before he was convicted of murdering a policeman in 1981 and sentenced to die, Mumia Abu-Jamal was a gifted journalist and brilliant writer. Now after more than 30 years in prison and despite attempts to silence him, Mumia is not only still alive but continuing to report, educate, provoke and inspire.”I’ve seen only one review of this film and it is fairly good. TRDB.

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MOVIES OPENING NEXT WEEK (FEB. 8)-

1) FERLINGHETTI: A REBIRTH OF WONDER- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In this definitive documentary, director Christopher Felver crafts an incisive, sharply wrought portrait that reveals Ferlinghetti’s true role as catalyst for numerous literary careers and for the Beat movement itself. One-on-one interviews with Ferlinghetti, made over the course of a decade, touch upon a rich mélange of characters and events that began to unfold in postwar America.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE MIND OF CHARLES SWAN III- Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Set in a stylized Los Angeles, ‘A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE MIND OF CHARLES SWAN III’ is a playful comedy of lost love, friendship, revenge fantasies, and Brandy Alexanders. Charles (Charlie Sheen) is a successful graphic designer whose fame, money and charm have provided him with a seemingly perfect life. When his true love, a perplexing beauty named Ivana, suddenly breaks off their relationship, Charles’ life falls apart and he swirls into a downward spiral of doubt, confusion and reflection.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.

3) LORE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After her Nazi parents are imprisoned, Lore leads her younger siblings across a war-torn Germany in 1945. Amid the chaos, she encounters a mysterious refugee named Thomas, who shatters her fragile reality with hatred and desire.” Very good reviews in general with just a few critics saying that the film was a bit slow. TRDB.

4) THE PLAYROOM- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In 1970s suburbia, Maggie and her younger siblings spend the night telling each other stories in the attic. Downstairs, as their parents entertain guests over the course of a gin-soaked evening, truths are unearthed and betrayals come to light. With standout performances from John Hawkes, Molly Parker, and a cast of talented young actors, Julia Dyer’s second feature is an honest and challenging look at the reality behind the façade of a seemingly perfect American family.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.

5) SIDE EFFECTS- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Emily Hawkins copes with her depression by taking large numbers of prescription medication. But when her emotions spiral out of control due to the upcoming release of her husband from prison, she turns to a new medication, with unforeseen results.” Just a few reviews so far and they are mixed. TRDB.
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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE TASTE OF MONEY- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this suspenseful erotic drama, the private male secretary and lover of Madam Baek, a Korean conglomerate’s middle-aged matriarch, falls for her more genuine daughter. Meanwhile, Madam Baek’s husband has an affair with the Filipino nanny.” 1/25/13- Mostly negative reviews but the NY Times liked this film very much. TRDB.

2) SUPPORTING CHARACTERS- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Crack film editors Nick and Darryl are hired to save a movie in desperate need of their skills, a gig that turns out to be filled with bad luck. Both men’s relationships are upended and their partnership is tested by the film’s delusional director.” 1/25/13- Good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) ARBITRAGE- I liked this movie a lot
2) BACHLORETTE- Fair reviews at best
3) BALLPLAYER: PELOTERO- A fairly good documentary that could have been better
4) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD- I enjoyed the film
5) CENTRAL PARK FIVE- Very good reviews
6) DEADFALL- Mixed reviews
7) THE FITZGERALD FAMILY CHRISTMAS- I liked this movie very much
8)THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT- OK reviews
9) HOPE SPRINGS- I liked this movie very much
10) MOONRISE KINGDOM- I liked it
11) THE MULBERRY TREE- Very good reviews
12) MY BEST ENEMY- A good movie
13) NESTING- Audiences have liked this more than the critics
14) OCTOBER BABY- Awful professional reviews
15) PEOPLE LIKE US-  I enjoyed the movie despite some light fluff. Some good dialogue as well
16) THE PUSHER- OK reviews but critics said the original was better
17) SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN- Most liked this a lot but I found it full of Hollywood
18)SAVE THE DATE- Mixed reviews
19) THE SHEIK AND I- Good reviews
20) TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- Not great but I liked it
21) WAITING FOR LIGHTNING- The NY Times called this movie boring
22) WALK AWAY RENEE- Weak reviews from most critics
23) WOMAN IN THE FIFTH- I liked it
24) THE WORDS- I enjoyed this movie
25) YELLING TO THE SKY- Mixed reviews

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) RUST AND BONE- Bethel. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “To support his young son, faded boxer Ali takes a job as a bouncer and meets the free-spirited Stéphanie, who trains whales at a water park. After Stéphanie suffers a devastating accident, Ali begins a poignant and unexpected relationship with her.”Great early reviews. TRDB. 11/23/12- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 1/25/13- I saw this recently at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and I thought it was great. TRDB.

2) TABU- Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Acclaimed director Miguel Gomes returns with a sumptuous, eccentric two-part tale centered on Aurora, shown first as an impulsive, cantankerous elderly woman in present-day Lisbon. When Aurora is hospitalized, she sends her neighbor, Pilar, to pass word of her grave condition to Gian Luca, a man of which no one has ever heard her speak. Pilar’s quest to fulfill her friend’s wish transports us to Africa fifty years earlier, before the start of the Portuguese Colonial War.” 12/26/12- Excellent reviews in general but a mixed review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
REPEATS-

1) AMOUR- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or winner, Georges and Anne, retired music teachers in their eighties, have a time-tested love. But as Anne’s health fails, Georges becomes her caregiver, and the couple’s bond is tested like never before.” 12/19/12- Great reviews all around and especially in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK- Bethel, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a four-year stay in a psychiatric institution, former teacher Pat Peoples has no choice but to move back in with his mother. While he’s trying in vain to reunite with his wife, Pat meets another woman fated to change his life.”Very good reviews. TRDB. 11/16/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 12/4/12- A very enjoyable piece of fluff that had a few lessons about life as well. TRDB.

3) ZERO DARK THIRTY- Bethel, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. Zero Dark Thirty reunites the Oscar winning team of director-producer Kathryn Bigelow and writer-producer Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker) for the story of history’s greatest manhunt for the world’s most dangerous man.”Great early reviews. TRDB. 1/29/13- I enjoyed the last 45 min. during the raid on Bin Laden’s compound because of its historical significance and suspense despite knowing the outcome. The first hour and a half was, for me, well summed up by a reviewer when he said– “A silly film that never remotely deserved an Oscar nomination.” TRDB.

4) QUARTET- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A trio of retired opera singers’ annual celebration of Verdi’s birthday sours when their estranged fourth member shows up but refuses to sing. Tensions rise and diva drama erupts — will personal problems prevent the show from going on?” Reviews are very good. TRDB.

5) LIFE OF PI- Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on Yann Martel’s best-selling novel, this coming-of-age tale recounts the adventures of Pi, an Indian boy who is the sole survivor of a shipwreck. Pi finds himself on a lifeboat with only some zoo animals for company.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 1/2/13- I enjoyed this movie very much especially the creative cinematography. See it in 3D if you can. TRDB.

6) LES MISERABLES- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The musical version of Victor Hugo’s epic tale of love and sacrifice, first produced for the stage in 1985, now receives the big-screen treatment. The bloody era of the French Revolution is the backdrop to Jean Valjean’s long struggle for redemption.”Fairly good reviews even as some critics complained that the movie was poorly directed. TRDB. 12/25/12- I enjoyed this movie very much even though I generally have trouble getting into musicals on the screen. TRDB.

7) LINCOLN- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Steven Spielberg takes on the towering legacy of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on his stewardship of the Union during the Civil War years. The biographical saga also reveals the conflicts within Lincoln’s cabinet regarding the war and abolition.”11/9/12- The NY Times gave this a great review today. TRDB. 11/18/12- There have been many critics raving about this movie. Day-Lewis gave a wonderful performance but I found the movie uninspiring and I felt that it was too long, too preachy and that there were too many characters to keep track of. TRDB.

8)ARGO- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1979, when Iranian militants seize the American embassy, six Americans slip into the Canadian embassy for protection, prompting the CIA to concoct an elaborate plot to rescue them by pretending that they are filmmakers rather than diplomats.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 10/25/12- A fascinating and apparently true story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. TRDB.

9) DJANGO UNCHAINED- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Accompanied by a German bounty hunter, a freed slave named Django travels across America to free his wife from a sadistic plantation owner. Quentin Tarantino directs this modern-day spaghetti Western.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.

10) BARBARA- Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1980 East Germany, Barbara, a doctor, is reassigned to a small rural hospital as punishment for trying to find work in the West. Biding time until her lover can help her defect, Barbara begins to suspect that her new boss knows of her plans.”12/21/12- Great review in today’s NT Times and elsewhere too. TRDB.
ENJOY!!
THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment January 31st, 2013

FILM REVIEWS #443

JANUARY 24, 2013
DEAR FRIENDS:

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND OLDER REVIEWS AT- www.thereeldrbob.com

SINCE MY LAST NEWSLETTER 3 WEEKS AGO I SPENT 5 DAYS AT THE PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL WHERE I SAW 9 MOVIES–  6 THAT I LIKED VERY MUCH, 2 THAT WERE GOOD AND 1 THAT I REALLY DID NOT CARE FOR. I’LL LIST THEIR NAMES AND AS THEY ARE DISTRIBUTED INTO THEATERS (HOPEFULLY) I’LL LET YOU KNOW.

1) ALLEZ, EDDY- Great
2) IN THE FOG- Didn’t like it
3) IMAGINE- Loved it
4) ENGLISH VINGLISH- Liked this Bollywood movie a lot
5) DANDELIONS- Excellent
6) FILL THE VOID- Very good movie from Israel
7) 80 MILLION- Just OK political thriller
8) RUST AND BONE- (Already released and I liked it very much)
9) BWAKAW- Just OK movie from the Philippines

THIS WEEK I ATTENDED 2 SCREENINGS FROM THE PALM BEACH JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL AND THEY WERE BOTH EXCELLENT–BOTH ARE DESCRIBED BELOW.
NEXT YEAR I WILL GIVE MY READERS AN EARLY HEADS-UP ON THIS FESTIVAL SCHEDULE SO THAT THOSE OF YOU IN FLORIDA CAN ENJOY THIS FESTIVAL AS WELL!

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) LITTLE BIRDS- Netflix
2) TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- Netflix
3) WHO SHOT MY FATHER?- Palm Beach Jewish FF
4) ONE DAY AFTER PEACE- Palm Beach Jewish FF

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MOVIES I’VE SEEN SINCE LAST WRITING- AT THE THEATER-

1) TCHOUPITOULAS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Join three young men for an unforgettable night in New Orleans as they explore the vibrant city streets and visit places many tourists never see. Along the way, they encounter the memorable people who make the Crescent City such a special place.”12/7/12- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 1/5/13- What a disappointment after all of the good reviews. I couldn’t understand a word they were saying and after a while I didn’t care. I walked out!! TRDB.

2) WHO SHOT MY FATHER?- 2011. Synopsis by IMDB. “Col. Joe Alon, the Israeli Air Force Attache was assassinated in 1973 in MARYLAND . An FBI investigation revealed nothing. 38 years later, the case remains unsolved and Joe’s three daughters are searching for the truth. Did he know something he shouldn’t have? The film opens with this theory and then goes on to raise personal, forensic, political and national questions and dilemmas: Why didn’t Israel cooperate with the FBI? Was Alon an undercover Mossad (Israeli undercover intelligence organization) agent? Why did the FBI destroy the evidence against protocol? Is it a part of the Yom Kippur War conspiracy theory (Dayan and Kissinger)? Includes interviews of FBI agents, Mossad chiefs, former American Air Force Chief Commander and others key personnel.” 1/21/13- I saw this at the Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival and found it interesting and provocative. TRDB.

3) ONE DAY AFTER PEACE- 2012. This is a documentary about an Israeli woman who lost her son to a Palestinian sniper and is now seeking reconciliation with both the killer and the situation by drawing from the experience of the people of South Africa and their ability to forgive the apartheid government there through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. TRDB. 1/23/13- I saw this as part of the Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival and thought it was excellent both in terms of the message and the movie itself. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SEEN SINCE LAST WRITING- AT HOME-

1) THE DAY HE ARRIVES- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This dreamlike, meandering narrative — shot in black and white and set in the Korean capital of Seoul — follows the movements of university professor Sungjoon, who’s supposed to meet a male colleague but comes across an old actress friend instead.” 4/20/12 Excellent review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB. 1/5/13- Boring as hell and I turned it off quickly. TRDB. Netflix.

2) LITTLE BIRDS- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Lily (Juno Temple) and Alison (Kay Panabaker) struggle to overcome the boredom of being teenagers in a small town in this drama directed by Elgin James. Lily yearns to escape the confines of her surroundings, while Alison finds comfort in the familiar. When they meet three street kids and follow them to Los Angeles, the girls learn just how far they’re willing to go to find their freedom and remain friends.” 8/29/12- Just a fair review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 1/19/13-  A weak plot story but it was difficult to not get involved  with these characters and their plight with boredom and dysfunctional families and where it can lead. TRDB. Netflix.

3) TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Slowed by age and failing eyesight, crack baseball scout Gus Lobel takes his grown daughter along as he checks out the final prospect of his career. Along the way, the two renew their bond, and she catches the eye of a young player-turned-scout.”Fair reviews for this movie starring Clint Eastwood. TRDB. 9/21/12- The NY Times today called this movie “safe” and reserved praise for Amy Adams, Eastwood’s daughter in the film. TRDB. 1/19/13- A generally pleasant film with a formulaic screenplay. Just OK. TRDB.
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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JAN. 29-

1) SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Marty, a struggling writer, needs inspiration to finish his screenplay Seven Psychopaths. He gets plenty of it when his oddball friends nab a crazed gangster’s beloved pooch and he inadvertently gets caught up in all the action. “Very good reviews. TRDB.
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MOVIES THAT OPENED IN THE LAST 3 WEEKS IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON JAN. 3.

1) A BOTTLE IN THE GAZA SEA- 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Tal is a 17-year-old Frenchwoman who has settled in Jerusalem with her family. She writes a letter expressing her refusal to accept that only hatred can reign between Israelis and Palestinians. She slips the letter into a bottle, and her brother throws it into the sea near Gaza, where he is carrying out his military service. A few weeks later, Tal receives an e-mail response from a mysterious “Gazaman,” a young Palestinian named Naïm. And thus begins a turbulent but tender long-distance friendship between two young people that are separated by a history they are trying both to understand and change. This engrossing and hopeful drama starring Hiam Abbas is based on the award-winning novel by Valérie Zenatti.” 11/8/12- There is an article in today’s NY Times about this film that is playing in the “Other Israel Film Festival” in NY. TRDB. 1/4/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) CLANDESTINE CHILDHOOD- 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Argentina, 1979. After years of exile, Juan (12) and his family come back to Argentina under fake identities. Juan’s parents and his uncle Beto are members of the Montoneros Organization, which is fighting against the Military Junta that rules the country. Because of their political activities they are being tracked down relentlessly, and the threat of capture and even death is constant. However, Juan’s daily life is also full of warmth and humor, and he quickly and easily integrates into his new environment. His friends at school and the girl he has a gigantic crush on, Maria, know him as Ernesto, a name he must not forget, since his family’s survival is at stake. Juan accepts this and follows all of his parents’ rules until one day he is told that they need to move again immediately, and leave his friends and Maria behind without an explanation. This is a story about militancy, undercover life, and love. The story of a clandestine childhood.” 1/11/13- Mixed reviews in today’s NY Times and in general. Some were very good and some were just fair. TRDB.

3) LET MY PEOPLE GO- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A sweet and hilarious fusion of gay romantic comedy, Jewish family drama and French bedroom farce, Mikael Buch’s Let My People Go! follows the travails and daydreams of the lovelorn Reuben (Nicolas Maury), a French-Jewish gay mailman living in fairytale Finland (where he got his MA in “Comparative Sauna Cultures”) with his gorgeous Nordic boyfriend. But just before Passover, a series of mishaps and a lovers’ quarrel exile the heartbroken Reuben back to Paris and his zany family-including Almodovar goddess Carmen Maura as his ditzy mom, and Truffaut regular Jean-François Stévenin as his lothario father. Scripted by director Mikael Buch and renowned arthouse auteur Christophe Honoré (Love Songs), Let My People Go! both celebrates and upends Jewish and gay stereotypes with wit, gusto and style to spare. 1/11/13- A weak review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

4) UPRISING- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In January 2011, millions of Egyptians took to the streets in a spontaneous eruption against thirty years of oppression under the regime of Hosni Mubarak. Communicating via Facebook and Twitter, the largely peaceful protesters braved tear gas, beatings, and live bullets in the hope of facing down security forces and overthrowing the government. Over eight hundred lost their lives, and several thousand were arrested and tortured by security forces. UPRISING tells the story of the Egyptian revolution from the perspective of its leadership and key organizers, their struggle for freedom against tremendous odds, their sacrifice, and the courage and ingenuity that allowed them to succeed.” 1/11/13- A very good review for this documentary in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

5) FRACKNATION- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “There are two sides of every story and then there is the truth. FrackNation is the film that will tell the truth about fracking. People across the US told us that everything we had heard about fracking was wrong. They say that anti-fracking campaigns, one-sided media coverage and moratoriums and bans have damaged the lives of thousands of people who are now desperate to have their voices heard.” 1/11/13- A good review in today’s NY Times saying that the film described the complexity of the situation very well. Others called it too one-sided. TRDB.

6) FAIRHAVEN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jon is on a journey of introspection and launching a writing career when an unexpected visit from two old pals derails his train of thought. As the three travel down memory lane, Jon learns more about himself than he ever could as a writer.” 1/11/13- A very good review in today’s NY Times. Others have not been as good. TRDB.

7) GANGSTER SQUAD- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When notorious East Coast mob boss Mickey Cohen looks to set up his operations in L.A., it’s up to a group of hard-nosed LAPD cops to take him down. Based on true events, this ’40s-era crime drama is directed by Ruben Fleischer.” 1/11/13- A weak review in today’s NY Times and everywhere else as well. TRDB.

8)BROKEN CITY- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “After private detective Billy Taggart informs the mayor of New York that his wife is having an affair, the woman’s lover turns up dead. In short order, the PI learns that his mayor boss is at the center of some very shady real estate dealings.” 1/181/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times calling it a solid B movie. Others have disliked it. TRDB.

9) BRIEF REUNION- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Successful businessman Aaron Clark has his 40th birthday wrecked by his no-good former classmate Teddy, who also begins stalking Aaron and his wife. Unable to contain Teddy’s sinister invasion of his life, Aaron finally arrives at his breaking point.” 1/18/13- A weak review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

10) HORS SATAN (OUTSIDE SATAN)- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this allegorical drama, a homeless man who may be more than he seems relentlessly wanders the open countryside — often accompanied by a teenage girl who feeds him — and indulges in an uneasy mixture of prayer and random violence.” 1/18/13- This movie received an OK review from the NY Times today and mixed reviews in general. TRDB.

11) GREENWICH VILLAGE: MUSIC THAT DEFINED A GENERATION- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “GREENWICH VILLAGE: MUSIC THAT DEFINED A GENERATION is a feature-length documentary about the Greenwich Village music scene and how it sparked everlasting political, social and cultural changes. For the first time, the greatest singer-songwriters, authors and performers from Greenwich Village reflect on how they collectively became the voice of a generation.” 1/18/13- I found only 2 reviews at this time, one positive and one negative. TRDB.

12) STOLEN SEAS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Utilizing exclusive interviews and unparalleled access to real pirates, hostages, ship-owners, pirate negotiators and experts on piracy, Stolen Seas presents a chilling exploration of the Somali pirate phenomenon. Stolen Seas is an eye opening refutation of preconceived ideas on how or why piracy has become the world’s most frightening multi-million dollar growth industry.” 1/18/13- This movie was one of the “best of the fest” at the Palm Springs International Film Festival this year and was praised in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

13) OUR SCHOOL- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmed over a four-year period in Transylvania, this poignant documentary chronicles the desegregation of a local school and the effect it has on three Roma — or “Gypsy” — children, as the kids face prejudice from their peers and the school system.” 1/18/13- A very good review for this documentary in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

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MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEK (JAN. 25)-

1) HAPPY PEOPLE: A YEAR IN THE TAIGA- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Venerated documentarian Werner Herzog teams with director Dmitry Vasyukov for this observant look at life along the River Yenisei in northern Russia, where the industrious inhabitants of a rural village truly live off the land.” A few mixed reviews so far. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) ANY DAY NOW- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rudy and Paul take in their neighbor’s teenage son Marco, who has Down syndrome, when his neglectful mother throws him out of her apartment. Their attempt to legally adopt Marco sparks a court battle over gay rights in this powerful true story. “A few reviews and they are very good. TRDB.

2) THE LOVING STORY- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This riveting documentary profiles Mildred and Richard Loving, who were arrested hours after their 1958 wedding for breaking Virginia’s laws against interracial marriage. In 1967, their case was heard before the Supreme Court and changed the nation.” 1/31/12- I saw this at a special showing with the director Nancy Biurski at the Jacob Burns Film Center. A great documentary with an impressive trove of archival footage. The movie was thought provoking and has analogies to life today in various parts of society both here and abroad. TRDB.
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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE MULBERRY TREE- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “While fulfilling his court-ordered community service in the state hospital, Mickey Loren meets Samuel Freeman, a convicted murderer dying of AIDS, whose remaining days on “hospital detail” give him the opportunity for redemption through conversations with Mickey about their own family issues.” Very good reviews. TRDB.
REPEATS-

1) ARBITRAGE- I liked this movie a lot
2) BACHLORETTE- Fair reviews at best
3) BALLPLAYER: PELOTERO- A fairly good documentary that could have been better
4) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD- I enjoyed the film
5) CENTRAL PARK FIVE- Very good reviews
6) DEADFALL- Mixed reviews
7) THE FITZGERALD FAMILY CHRISTMAS- I liked this movie very much
8)THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT- OK reviews
9) HOPE SPRINGS- I liked this movie very much
10) THE LONELIEST PLANET- Lots of bad reviews. I saw 10 minutes for free On-Demand and did not like it
11) MOONRISE KINGDOM- I liked it
12) MY BEST ENEMY- A good movie
13) NESTING- Audiences have liked this more than the critics
14) OCTOBER BABY- Awful professional reviews
15) PEOPLE LIKE US-  I enjoyed the movie despite some light fluff. Some good dialogue as well
16) THE PUSHER- OK reviews but critics said the original was better
17) SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN- Most liked this a lot but I found it full of Hollywood
18)SAVE THE DATE- Mixed reviews
19) THE SHEIK AND I- Good reviews
20) WAITING FOR LIGHTNING- The NY Times called this movie boring
21) WALK AWAY RENEE- Weak reviews from most critics
22) WOMAN IN THE FIFTH- I liked it
23) THE WORDS- I enjoyed this movie
24) YELLING TO THE SKY- Mixed reviews

Cablevision Link– http://www.optimum.net/VOD/movies?cat=Movies+On+Demand%2FIndependent+Films%2FIFC+In+Theaters

DirecTV- www.directv.com/DTVAPP/listing/ppvMovies.jsp

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) RUST AND BONE- Bethel, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “To support his young son, faded boxer Ali takes a job as a bouncer and meets the free-spirited Stéphanie, who trains whales at a water park. After Stéphanie suffers a devastating accident, Ali begins a poignant and unexpected relationship with her.”Great early reviews. TRDB. 1/23/12- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 1/25/13- I saw this recently at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and I thought it was great. TRDB.

2) LOVE (AMOUR)- Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or winner, Georges and Anne, retired music teachers in their eighties, have a time-tested love. But as Anne’s health fails, Georges becomes her caregiver, and the couple’s bond is tested like never before.” 12/19/12- Great reviews all around and especially in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) BARBARA- Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1980 East Germany, Barbara, a doctor, is reassigned to a small rural hospital as punishment for trying to find work in the West. Biding time until her lover can help her defect, Barbara begins to suspect that her new boss knows of her plans.” 12/21/12- Great review in today’s NT Times and elsewhere too. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) ZERO DARK THIRTY- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. Zero Dark Thirty reunites the Oscar winning team of director-producer Kathryn Bigelow and writer-producer Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker) for the story of history’s greatest manhunt for the world’s most dangerous man.” Great reviews and audiences have liked it too. TRDB.

2) SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a four-year stay in a psychiatric institution, former teacher Pat Peoples has no choice but to move back in with his mother. While he’s trying in vain to reunite with his wife, Pat meets another woman fated to change his life.”Very good reviews. TRDB. 11/16/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 12/4/12- A very enjoyable piece of fluff that had a few lessons about life as well. TRDB.

3) HYDE PARK ON THE HUDSON- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In June 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Bill Murray) and his wife Eleanor (Olivia Williams) host the King and Queen of England (Samuel West and Olivia Colman) for a weekend at the Roosevelt home at Hyde Park on Hudson, in upstate New York – the first-ever visit of a reigning English monarch to America. With Britain facing imminent war with Germany, the Royals are desperately looking to FDR for support. But international affairs must be juggled with the complexities of FDR’s domestic establishment, as wife, mother, and mistresses all conspire to make the royal weekend an unforgettable one.” Mediocre early reviews. TRDB. 12/7/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) QUARTET- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A trio of retired opera singers’ annual celebration of Verdi’s birthday sours when their estranged fourth member shows up but refuses to sing. Tensions rise and diva drama erupts — will personal problems prevent the show from going on?” Early reviews are very good. TRDB.

5) LIFE OF PI- Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on Yann Martel’s best-selling novel, this coming-of-age tale recounts the adventures of Pi, an Indian boy who is the sole survivor of a shipwreck. Pi finds himself on a lifeboat with only some zoo animals for company.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 1/2/13- I enjoyed this movie very much especially the creative cinematography. See it in 3D if you can. TRDB.

6) LES MISERABLES- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The musical version of Victor Hugo’s epic tale of love and sacrifice, first produced for the stage in 1985, now receives the big-screen treatment. The bloody era of the French Revolution is the backdrop to Jean Valjean’s long struggle for redemption.”Fairly good reviews even as some critics complained that the movie was poorly directed. TRDB. 12/25/12- I enjoyed this movie very much even though I generally have trouble getting into musicals on the screen. TRDB.

7) LINCOLN-  Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Steven Spielberg takes on the towering legacy of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on his stewardship of the Union during the Civil War years. The biographical saga also reveals the conflicts within Lincoln’s cabinet regarding the war and abolition.”11/9/12- The NY Times gave this a great review today. TRDB. 11/18/12- There have been many critics raving about this movie. Day-Lewis gave a wonderful performance but I found the movie uninspiring and I felt that it was too long, too preachy and that there were too many characters to keep track of. TRDB.

8)ARGO- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1979, when Iranian militants seize the American embassy, six Americans slip into the Canadian embassy for protection, prompting the CIA to concoct an elaborate plot to rescue them by pretending that they are filmmakers rather than diplomats.” Excellent reviews. TRDB. 10/25/12- A fascinating and apparently true story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. TRDB.

9) DJANGO UNCHAINED- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Accompanied by a German bounty hunter, a freed slave named Django travels across America to free his wife from a sadistic plantation owner. Quentin Tarantino directs this modern-day spaghetti Western.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.

For Independent Films in Your Neighborhood go to- www.emergingpictures.com

For Independent Films in Palm Beach County go to www.lakeworthplayhouse.org  

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!
THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment January 24th, 2013