The Reel Dr. Bob

AUGUST 30, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE CAKEMAKER– At the Theater

2) LEAN ON PETE– Netflix Disc.

3) SWEET COUNTRY- Netflix Disc.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) THE CAKEMAKER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thomas, a young German baker, is having an affair with Oren, an Israeli married man who has frequent business visits in Berlin. When Oren dies in a car crash in Israel, Thomas travels to Jerusalem seeking answers regarding his death. Under a fabricated identity, Thomas infiltrates into the life of Anat, his lover’s newly widowed wife, who owns a small Café in downtown Jerusalem. Thomas starts to work for her and create German cakes and cookies that bring life into her Café. Thomas finds himself involved in Anat’s life in a way far beyond his anticipation, and to protect the truth he will stretch his lie to a point of no return.”

6/29/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

8/25/18- I liked this movie very much. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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

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

8/26/18-  I liked this movie very much. Really about a 15 year old who comes of age with more problems loaded on his back than he deserves. TRDB.  Netflix Disc.

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

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

8/28/18- I enjoyed the movie but not nearly as much as the critics did.  Also a bit too long and drawn out. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 4-

1) DEVIL’S GATE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Trouble is afoot in Devil’s Gate, North Dakota, and FBI agent Daria and local deputy Colt think the source is Jackson Pritchard, whose wife and son have vanished. But Daria and Colt get more than they bargained for when they arrive at Jackson’s farm.”

1/5/18- Weak reviews by the critics and good ones by audiences. I’ll pass on this one. TRDB.

2) THE FEMALE BRAIN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a nonfiction book of the same name about the effect of male vs. female brain chemistry on relationships, this ensemble comedy follows several couples struggling to navigate the treacherous path of romantic partnerships.”

2/9/18- Poor reviews for this comedy/drama but it might be of interest to some. TRDB.

3) MANSFIELD 66/67- 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blond, busty and beautiful, Jayne Mansfield was as famous for her offscreen high jinks as for her onscreen roles. This documentary looks at the final two years of her life, including her liaison with a Satanist, which some believe led to her death.”

11/1/17- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) BEAST– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moll has always been a handful, at least according to her parents, who’ve kept her on a tight leash too long. Eager to escape, she moves in with an attractive stranger she meets at a nightclub — only to find he’s a suspect in a string of murders.”

5/11/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) ADRIFT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Anticipating a great adventure, Tami sets sail on a Pacific Ocean voyage with her fiancé, Richard. But the trip doesn’t go as planned when a massive hurricane leaves Richard badly hurt and the boat in shambles, with the closest port 1,500 miles away.”

5/31/18- Fair reviews for this adventure story. TRDB.

6) NIGHT COMES ON– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “About to turn 18, Angel LaMere emerges from juvenile detention with big plans: She’s going to rescue younger sister Abby from foster care and then track down and kill their father — the man who murdered their mom.”

8/3/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Touching on the many facets and talents of a unique and beloved personality, this affectionate documentary profiles ingenuous and kindly Fred Rogers, host of the children’s show “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” for more than 30 years.”

6/6/17- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

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

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

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

4/24/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

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

11) DARK RIVER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of her father’s death, Alice returns to her hometown in Yorkshire after 15 years away to settle the inheritance of the family farm with brother Joe. But a bitter quarrel between the two soon brings traumatic memories to the surface.”

6/29/18- Fairly good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) SUPPORT THE GIRLS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As general manager at a sports bar, Lisa Conroy is den mother to a bevy of scantily clad beauties who serve food and drink. But when she attempts to raise money for one of her employees, Lisa runs into opposition from the crusty owner.”

8/24/18- Excellent reviews for this comedy including some great ones. TRDB.

2) CRIME + PUNISHMENT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “At the New York Police Department, the math is simple: More summonses and arrests equal more money for the city — but at a high cost for minorities and the whistle-blower cops bent on exposing unjust policing, as chronicled in this documentary.”

8/24/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

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

8/24/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

4) MAISON DU BONHEUR– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Maison du bonheur is a documentary that studies the day-to-day life of a Parisian astrologer, who has been residing in the same Montmartre apartment for over 50 years.”

8/24/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) MAKALA- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary focuses on young Kabwita, who ekes out a living producing charcoal in the Congolese countryside and then transporting it to the city to sell — a journey that involves three days of pushing a bicycle overloaded with his product.”

8/24/18- Very good to excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) SEARCHING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In an age dominated by electronic devices, David Kim communicates with his teenage daughter largely via iMessages and FaceTime chats. So, when she vanishes, he begins a virtual hunt for her on her laptop as a cop searches for her in the real world.”

8/24/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7) THE REST I MAKE UP– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “A fine ode to the excitement that Off Off Broadway theater once generated, and a wistful look at an ailing artist as she contemplates her life.”

8/24/18- Just 2 reviews but they are very good. TRDB.

8) JOHN McENROE: IN THE REALM OF PERFECTION– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though John McEnroe was the No. 1 tennis player of his day, he never won the French Open. Director Julien Faraut uses the toughest of those losses — to Ivan Lendl in 1984 — to anchor this cinematic study of McEnroe’s wily game and notorious anger.”

8/25/18- Very good reviews for this film. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) PAPILLON– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this remake of the 1973 film based on his memoir, safecracker Henri Charrière, wrongly convicted of murder, forms an unlikely alliance with fellow inmate and counterfeiter Louis Dega to finance an escape Henri spends years planning and attempting.”

8/21/18- Weak reviews especially when compared to the original. TRDB.

2) HOT TO TROT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “The world of same-sex ballroom dancing comes out of the shadows in this engaging documentary that profiles four dynamic competitors over a four-year period as they prepare to vie for top honors at the 2014 Gay Games.”

8/24/18- Poor reviews. TRDB.

3) BLUE IGUANA– Awful reviews

4) AN L.A. MINUTE– Terrible reviews

5) WHAT KEEPS YOU ALIVE– Another bloody/horror movie. I’ll skip it despite its fair ratings.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON DEMAND- NONE

REPEATS-

1) CHAPPAQUIDDICK

2) FIRST REFORMED

3) A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN

4) THE RIDER

5) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR

6) TULLY

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

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

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

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

8/24/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BLACKkKLANSMEN– Jacob Burn, Bethel, Danbury. I liked it but not as much as others did

2) PAPILLON– Bethel, Clearview 100. Weak reviews

3) JULIET, NAKED– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

4) EIGHTH GRADE– Clearview 100. Good reviews but friends have not liked it

5) THE CAKEMAKER– Clearview 100

6) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Clearview 100.

7)  OPERATION FINALE– Jacob Burns, Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Weak reviews at best

8) PUZZLE- Jacob Burns. I loved the movie

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) OPERATION FINALE– Mediocre reviews

2) JOHN McENROE: IN THE REALM OF PERFECTION– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though John McEnroe was the No. 1 tennis player of his day, he never won the French Open. Director Julien Faraut uses the toughest of those losses — to Ivan Lendl in 1984 — to anchor this cinematic study of McEnroe’s wily game and notorious anger.”

8/25/18- Very good reviews for this film. TRDB.

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

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

4) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– An excellent documentary

5) PUZZLE- I loved it

6) BLACKkKLANSMAN– I liked it but not as much as others

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY ( see Movies of Lake Worth above for description)

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN–

2) THE WIFE–

3) PUZZLE

4) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

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

8/10/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE THIRD MURDER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intricate crime thriller follows renowned defense attorney Shigemori, whose client Misumi has confessed to the murder he’s charged with. But Shigemori’s investigations suggest that there’s more to the case than meets the eye.”

7/20/18- Very good reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. A few very negative ones as well. TRDB.

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

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN- I liked it but not as much as others

2) JULIET, NAKED– Good reviews

3) PUZZLE- I loved it- limited screenings

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

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

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 23, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE YELLOW BIRDS– Netflix Disc.

2) ON CHESIL BEACH– Netflix Disc.

3) PUZZLE– At the Theater

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) PUZZLE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “While leading an empty suburban existence, Agnes discovers the pleasure of solving jigsaw puzzles and finds she has a rare talent for it. Before long, her hobby provides an entrée into a new life through the world of competitive puzzling.”

7/27/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/18/18- I loved this movie!! TRDB. 

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE YELLOW BIRDS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Friends since training, soldiers Bartle and Murph ship off to Iraq under the command of a ready-to-rumble sergeant. When only Bartle returns, a military investigator and Murph’s grieving mother are determined to make Bartle reveal what happened.”

6/15/18- This movie sounds interesting but received really poor reviews from the critics and from audiences as well. There were a few good ones- one from the NY Times. I think I’d give it a try. TRDB.

8/15/18- I enjoyed this movie very much and I think it stands above other movies with similar themes. Very good acting as well. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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

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

8/17/18- Slow at first but more than made up for it as time went on. I liked it. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 28-

1) THE ONLY LIVING BOY IN NEW YORK– Terrible reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) GRACE JONES: BLOODLIGHT AND BAMI– Very good reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences. TRDB.

3) WESTERN- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

4) RBG- An excellent documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg- I liked it very much. TRDB.

5) BOOK CLUB– Funny at times and silly as well but the movie was cute and I did enjoy it. I was the only man in the theater.

6) AMERICAN ANIMALS– Weak reviews– one critic called it mundane and stupid. TRDB.

7) UPGRADE– Very good reviews. TRDB.

8) TAG-  Not my kind of movie– sounds pretty stupid as far as I’m concerned. TRDB.

9) WOMAN WALKS AHEAD–  Poor reviews from the critics for this movie starring Jessica Chastain. Audiences have liked it. TRDB.

10) DAMASCUS COVER– I’ve seen just a few reviews and they are poor. TRDB.

11) THE FEMALE BRAIN–  Poor reviews for this comedy/drama but it might be of interest to some. TRDB.

12) THE DEATH OF STALIN– Poor reviews and I’d skip this one

13) DEVIL’S GATE– Weak reviews by the critics and good ones by audiences. I’ll pass on this one. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) MEMOIR OF WAR– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “A resistance member in Nazi-occupied France, young writer Marguerite Duras is frantic to learn the fate of her communist husband, who’s been sent to a concentration camp. In return for news, she begins a risky relationship with a German collaborator.”

8/17/18- Mostly good reviews, especially for the acting. TRDB.

2) MINDING THE GAP– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Returning to his Illinois hometown, documentarian Bing Liu reconnects with a pair of skateboarding friends from his youth. At a transition point, the trio finds their outlooks changing as they struggle with their pasts and moving into adulthood.”

8/17/18- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) ALPHA– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this adventure saga set during the last Ice Age, a young man on a hunting expedition loses his bearings and must make his way through a hostile landscape — accompanied only by his dog — to reunite with his tribe.”

8/17/18- Good reviews. TRDB.

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

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

5) WE THE ANIMALS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a household that often turns violent, siblings Manny, Joel and Jonah find solace in one another. But while Manny and Joel grow more like their dad as time passes, youngest son Jonah escapes into a fantasy world.”

8/17/18- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

6) NOTES ON AN APPEARANCE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “David Hidell is excited about starting life anew doing research for his buddy, who’s writing a biography of a controversial philosopher. When David suddenly vanishes, his friends launch a search for him, combing through obscure circumstantial clues.”

8/17/18- Decent reviews but definitely NOT my kind of movie. TRDB.

7) A WHALE OF A TALE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fishermen in the Japanese village of Taiji have long harvested dolphins by driving them into an inlet and killing them, a practice that animal rights activists condemn. Documentarian Megumi Sasaki looks at both sides of this controversial issue.”

8/17/18- OK but mixed reviews- more positive than negative. TRDB.

8) DO YOU TRUST THIS COMPUTER?- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Depending on whom you ask, artificial intelligence will either transform our lives with smart machines that adapt to our whims or destroy us by mining personal data for profit. Top technologists such as Elon Musk weigh in on this timely topic.”

8/17/18- Weak reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

9) JULIET, NAKED– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Once madly in love with Annie, his longtime girlfriend, Duncan has become more dedicated to faded rocker Tucker Crowe than to her, causing the relationship to founder. But in a surprising twist of fate, it’s Annie who ultimately connects with Tucker.”

8/17/18- Weak reviews in general but there are a few very good ones as well. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON DEMAND-

1) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– for PURCHASE only

REPEATS-

1) FIRST REFORMED-

2) TULLY-

3) A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN–

5) CHAPPAQUIDDICK

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) PAPILLON– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this remake of the 1973 film based on his memoir, safecracker Henri Charrière, wrongly convicted of murder, forms an unlikely alliance with fellow inmate and counterfeiter Louis Dega to finance an escape Henri spends years planning and attempting.”

8/21/18- Weak reviews especially when compared to the original. TRDB.

2) JULIET, NAKED– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Once madly in love with Annie, his longtime girlfriend, Duncan has become more dedicated to faded rocker Tucker Crowe than to her, causing the relationship to founder. But in a surprising twist of fate, it’s Annie who ultimately connects with Tucker.”

8/17/18- Weak reviews in general but there are a few very good ones as well. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury. I liked it but not as much as others did

2) EIGHTH GRADE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent documentary- I liked it very much

4) McQUEEN– Bethel. Very good reviews

5) PUZZLE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I loved this movie

6) THE CAKEMAKER-Clearview 100. Very good reviews and friends have loved it

7) SCOTTY AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD– Jacob Burns. Very good reviews

8) LEAVE NO TRACE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this movie

9) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews.

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– I liked it but not as much as others did

2) PUZZLE– I loved the movie

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– An excellent documentary

4) 1945– I liked this movie very much

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Losing faith in his persuasive skills, telemarketer Cassius Green takes a co-worker’s advice and finds that he suddenly has a gift for selling that elevates him to the executive echelon — where he discovers the chilling secret of his bosses.”

7/5/18- Fairly good reviews for this comedy that didn’t sound so good to me. TRDB.

2) UNDER THE TREE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a sleepy Reykjavik suburb, a tree casting a large shadow over the next-door neighbors’ sundeck turns long-festering tensions into an all-out war, with garden gnomes, pets and family members getting caught in the escalating feud.”

7/5/18- Good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

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

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– I liked it but not as much as others did

2) CUSTODY– Excellent reviews by both critics and audiences

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– If you haven’t seen this yet see it soon or it will be gone (limited screenings)

4) McQUEEN– Very good reviews– limited screenings

5) THE THIRD MURDER– Very good reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences

6) PUZZLE- I loved this movie

AUGUST 16, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) SUBMISSION– Netflix Disc.

2) LIKE FATHER– Netflix Streaming

3) BLACKkKLANSMAN– At the Theater

4) LOVE AFTER LOVE– Netflix Disc.

5) THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST- At the Theater

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. “Taking on a dangerous undercover assignment, black Colorado cop Ron Stallworth manages to join the Ku Klux Klan’s Colorado Springs chapter — and is named its leader — by disguising his race on the phone while a white officer attends the meetings.”

8/10/18- Great reviews!!! Sounds like a must-see! TRDB.

8/11/18- I enjoyed the movie but it was far from great. Trying to make the movie more entertaining took away somewhat from the message. TRDB. 

2) THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Teenager Cameron Post sees her life turn topsy-turvy when she’s caught having sex with another girl on prom night and is packed off to a conversion-therapy facility to be “cured.” Instead, she forms a bond with the two renegades in the group.”

8/3 18- Good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

8/15/18- An interesting portrayal of life in one of the religious conversion therapy programs. Be prepared for a sad movie. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) SUBMISSION– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Impressed by the talent of creative writing student Angela Argo, professor and author Ted Swenson steadily develops an obsession with her, despite knowing that it will likely ruin his marriage and his career.’

3/5/18- Poor reviews from the critics and relatively good ones from audiences. TRDB.

8/9/18– I’m with audiences on this one– I liked it. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) LIKE FATHER– 2008. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “When a workaholic young executive (Kristen Bell), is left at the altar, she ends up on her Caribbean honeymoon cruise with the last person she ever expected: her estranged and equally workaholic father (Kelsey Grammer).”

8/10/18- Just ridiculous enough to be funny and enjoyable at times. TRDB. Netflix Streaming

3) LOVE AFTER LOVE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “An introspective examination of grief, this ensemble drama focuses on a family struggling to cope in the wake of the patriarch’s death, as their anger and inner anguish build up stress on their relationships.”

3/30/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/13/18- Really a movie about loss and grieving and I liked it. Starring Andie MacDowell. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMINC TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 21-

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

5/18/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

6/8/18- I enjoyed this movie despite the torment of the main character (Ethan Hawke). Very well acted. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON-DEMAND-

1) A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, boxer Billy Moore travels to Thailand to start a new life but quickly lapses back into old habits that land him in prison. To survive the ordeal, he must learn the deadly sport of Muay Thai boxing.”

8/10/18- Excellent reviews by both audiences and critics. TRDB.

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

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

REPEATS-

1) DISOBEDIENCE- Very good

2) THE RIDER- I liked it

3) THE LEASURE SEEKER- I enjoyed this movie

4) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Good for historical value- movie so-so

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY, AUG. 10-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. “Taking on a dangerous undercover assignment, black Colorado cop Ron Stallworth manages to join the Ku Klux Klan’s Colorado Springs chapter — and is named its leader — by disguising his race on the phone while a white officer attends the meetings.”

8/10/18- Great reviews!!! Sounds like a must-see! TRDB.

2) THE 317th PLATOON– 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. “In Vietnam, 1954, a French platoon isolated behind enemy lines tries to come back. It is led by the inexperienced, idealistic sous-lieutenant Torrens, and by adjutant Willsdorf, a WWII veteran of the Werhmacht.”

8/10/18- Very few reviews but they are all excellent. This is what the NY Times had to say–“This is a staggeringly engrossing and effective movie, its settings both beautiful and oppressive, its incidents tense and eye-opening.” I’ll definitely try to see this movie. TRDB.

3) SKATE KITCHEN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Featuring a group of real-life skateboarders performing gravity-defying acrobatics, this immersive drama follows lonely Long Island teen Camille, whose life is transformed when she becomes part of a tight-knit band of urban female skateboarders.”

8/10/18- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

4) A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based drama, boxer Billy Moore travels to Thailand to start a new life but quickly lapses back into old habits that land him in prison. To survive the ordeal, he must learn the deadly sport of Muay Thai boxing.”

8/10/18- Excellent reviews by both audiences and critics. TRDB.

5) THE SWAN (SVANURINN)- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exiled to her aunt and uncle’s farm after getting caught stealing, 9-year-old Sól finds her penance harsh — until she discovers a kindred spirit in the farmhand sharing her room. But their bond is tested when Sól’s cousin Ásta returns home.”

8/10/18- Fair reviews from the critics but it sounds interesting to me. TRDB.

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

8/10/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7) DOG DAYS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this ensemble comedy, dogs are not only man’s best friend, they’re his best matchmaker as a disparate group of Angelenos — including a mom, an athlete turned TV host and a barista — connects through their canine companions.”

8/10/18- Weak reviews from the critics but very good ones from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) SLENDER MAN- Violent and bloody- skip it

2) BUYBUST– Decent reviews but it sounds awful to me- don’t go

3) ELIZABETH HARVEST– Violent and bloody- worth missing

4) THE MEG– Miss this one too

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) FAR FROM THE TREE– Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Challenging conventional perceptions of “normality,” this affecting documentary looks at the special effort required to raise children who are profoundly different, profiling seven families as they confront the difficulties and reap the rewards.”

7/19/18- Just a few reviews at present and they are all good. TRDB.

2) SCOTTY AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD-Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this dishy documentary about his days facilitating sexual encounters for movie stars, handsome and charming Scotty Bowers recounts how he began supplying more than just gasoline at the filling station he ran in 1940s Hollywood.”

8/3/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury. I liked it but I didn’t think it was up to the hype

2) EIGHTH GRADE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Good reviews but friends have not liked it

3) McQUEEN–  Bethel. Uniformly good reviews but nowhere did I see “excellent.”

4) PUZZLE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews

5) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent documentary

6) THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST– Clearview 100. Excellent reviews and I liked it

7) THE CAKEMAKER– Clearview 100. Very good reviews

8) LEAVE NO TRACE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. I enjoyed it

9) RBG– Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg

10) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Garden Cinema Norwalk

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM  BEACH COUNGY

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– I saw it and liked it — not as much as others did

2) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I saw this documentary and liked it very much

3) PUZZLE– Very good reviews

4) 1945– I saw this and liked it very much

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) BLACKkKLANSMAN– I saw it and liked it — not as much as others did

2) PUZZLE– Very good reviews

3) THE CAKEMAKER– Very good reviews

4) 1945– I saw this and liked it very much

C) THE STONZEK THEATER-

CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS

D)THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS-

1) CUSTODY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Caught in the middle of his parents’ bitter divorce, Julien Besson finds his life ruled by the terms of a shared custody order, forcing him to navigate the competing perspectives of his warring parents and to try to keep the worst from happening.”

8/14/18- Excellent reviews by both critics and audiences. TRDB.

2) McQUEEN– Very good reviews

3) PUZZLE- Very good reviews

4) THE CAKEMAKER– Very good reviews

5) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I saw it and liked it very much

AUGUST 9, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) LEAVE NO TRACE– At the Theater

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK– Netflix Disc.

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) LEAVE NO TRACE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “For survivalist Will and his teenage daughter, living off the grid means residing in a nature reserve on the edge of a city — a lifestyle that suits them until they’re discovered and forced into the social services system.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/1/18- I liked the movie very much. TRDB. 

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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

4/3/18- Fairly good reviews for this historical drama. TRDB.

8/8/18- The movie was a reminder of the incident and the times but it was just a so-so movie. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 14-

AUGUST 2, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SEND A NEWSLETTER NEXT WEEK SO I’M INCLUDING NETFLIX SUGGESTIONS FOR THE NEXT 2 WEEKS

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) JOURNEY’S END– Netflix Disc.

2) THE BLEEDING EDGE– Netflix Streaming

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

1) JOURNEY’S END- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in March 1918, this tense World War I drama focuses on a small group of British soldiers in the trenches at Mont Saint-Quentin, France, who know exactly what’s coming: a massive German offensive. But what they don’t know is when.”

3/16/18- Excellent reviews from all sources. TRDB.

7/28/18- I enjoyed this movie which shows yet again that war is certainly like hell. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) THE BLEEDING EDGE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “America has the most technologically advanced health care system in the world, yet medical interventions have become the third leading cause of death, and the overwhelming majority of high-risk implanted devices never require a single clinical trial. In THE BLEEDING EDGE, Academy Award (R) nominated filmmakers Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering (THE INVISIBLE WAR, THE HUNTING GROUND) turn their sights on the $400 billion medical device industry, examining lax regulations, corporate cover-ups, and profit driven incentives that put patients at risk daily.”

7/27/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7/29/18- An excellent and important documentary that is both informative and exasperating. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 7-

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

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

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

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

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

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

5/9/18- A good slice of life drama, this one portrays the culture of the rodeo riders very well. TRDB. 

4) REVENGE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tagging along on a hunting trip with married lover Richard and two of his pals, nubile mistress Jen is raped by one of his friends. To ensure her silence, the trio leaves her for dead in the desert, but Jen survives — and unleashes her rage on them.”

5/11/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

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

6) THE MUSIC OF SILENCE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Faithfully rendering the moving saga of blind tenor Andrea Bocelli, this musical biopic chronicles his meteoric rise to fame and the crossover success that turned him into a worldwide star.”

2/2/18- Terrible, terrible reviews for this movie. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, AUG. 14-

1) THE ONLY LIVING BOY IN NEW YORK– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “With college out of the way and the rest of his life ahead of him, Thomas is taking his time to decide what he really wants. On the other hand, his father’s young mistress, Johanna, knows exactly what she wants — and it’s Thomas.”

8/24/17- Terrible reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) LOVE & BANANAS: AN ELEPHANT STORY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a dramatic chapter in the struggle to rescue trekking Asian elephants, noted conservationist Lek Chailert leads a team on a 480-mile journey to save 70-year-old Noi Na, a nearly blind pachyderm that has labored for humans for decades.”

4/18/18- I’ve seen just 1 review and it was very positive. TRDB.

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

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

4) THE HOUSE OF TOMORROW– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Raised by his overbearing grandmother in a geodesic dome and steeped in futurist Buckminster Fuller’s theories, 16-year-old Sebastian gets a look at a different kind of life when she suffers a stroke and he strikes up a friendship with a punk rocker.”

4/27/18- Fair reviews at best. Several called it quirky. TRDB.

5) THE ESCAPE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Suffocating in her seemingly picture-perfect existence as a stay-at-home mom with two young children and a prosperous husband, Tara does the unthinkable: She deserts her family to find herself and determine what she wants from life.”

5/11/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) THE YELLOW BIRDS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Friends since training, soldiers Bartle and Murph ship off to Iraq under the command of a ready-to-rumble sergeant. When only Bartle returns, a military investigator and Murph’s grieving mother are determined to make Bartle reveal what happened.”

6/15/18- This movie sounds interesting but received really poor reviews from the critics and from audiences as well. There were a few good ones- one from the NY Times. I think I’d give it a try. TRDB.

7) SHOCK AND AWE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This real-life drama about the manipulation of public opinion recounts the tragically successful efforts of George W. Bush’s administration to convince the American people, wrongly, that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction.”

7/12/18- Terrible reviews from everyone. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

Recommended-

1) MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: FALLOUT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Überspy Ethan Hunt and his fearless cohorts on the Impossible Missions Force are tested as never before — physically and mentally — in this stunt-heavy installment of the action-thriller series.”

7/27/18- Excellent reviews for this action based thriller. TRDB.

2) PUZZLE- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “While leading an empty suburban existence, Agnes discovers the pleasure of solving jigsaw puzzles and finds she has a rare talent for it. Before long, her hobby provides an entrée into a new life through the world of competitive puzzling.”

7/27/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) SCARRED HEARTS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Suffering from bone tuberculosis, 20-year-old Emanuel moves into a sanatorium, where he faces torturous therapy and years of confinement in bed. Despite his situation, he finds love and camaraderie — and inspires his fellow patients to embrace life.”

7/27/18- Fairly good reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

4) GOOD MANNERS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In stratified São Paulo, a close bond develops between wealthy Ana, a pregnant socialite, and impoverished Clara, who’s hired as the child’s nanny. But the women’s relationship soon moves beyond friendship into the realm of the macabre.”

7/27/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

5) KILLER BEES– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The Bridgehampton High School basketball team defends its Class D title and offers a way in to learn more about the African-American population in the Hamptons.”

7/27/18– I’ve seen just 4 reviews– 2 good and 2 poor. TRDB.

6) THE BLEEDING EDGE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “America has the most technologically advanced health care system in the world, yet medical interventions have become the third leading cause of death, and the overwhelming majority of high-risk implanted devices never require a single clinical trial. In THE BLEEDING EDGE, Academy Award (R) nominated filmmakers Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering (THE INVISIBLE WAR, THE HUNTING GROUND) turn their sights on the $400 billion medical device industry, examining lax regulations, corporate cover-ups, and profit driven incentives that put patients at risk daily.”

7/27/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7/29/18- An excellent and important documentary that is both informative and exasperating. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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

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

Not Recommended-

1) HOT SUMMER NIGHTS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When gawky teen Daniel is packed off to spend the summer with his aunt in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, he soon falls in with bad-boy Hunter, and they begin peddling drugs together. As Daniel’s confidence grows, he sets his sights on his new pal’s sister.”

7/27/18- Really poor reviews from the critics with slightly better ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) DAMASCUS COVER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After failing to bring a mole home alive, Israeli spy Ari Ben-Sion is called back to Jerusalem but soon sent to Syria on a covert mission to smuggle out a chemical weapons scientist. When the job unravels, Ari finds that he has a target on his back.”

7/27/18- I’ve seen just a few reviews and they are poor. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

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

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

REPEATS-

1) DISOBEDIENCE– I enjoyed this movie

2) WONDER– Good reviews

3) THE SHAPE OF WATER– My favorite of 2017

4) LEAN ON PETE– Very good reviews

5) THE LEISURE SEEKER– I enjoyed this “road trip”

6) TULLY– I liked it

7) CHAPAQUIDICK- I plan to see this just for the history

____________________________________________________________________

BOB[S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) McQUEEN– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “One of the most innovative fashion designers of his day, Alexander McQueen had a brilliant career that ended tragically with his suicide at age 40. This revealing documentary details McQueen’s achievements in couture and his emotional woes.

7/19/18- Uniformly good reviews but nowhere did I see “excellent.” TRDB.

2) BLACKkKLANSMAN– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by IMDB. “Taking on a dangerous undercover assignment, black Colorado cop Ron Stallworth manages to join the Ku Klux Klan’s Colorado Springs chapter — and is named its leader — by disguising his race on the phone while a white officer attends the meetings.”

7/31/18- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) EIGHTH GRADE– Jacob Burns, Danbury, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews

2) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT- Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences. TRDB.

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this documentary very much

4) LEAVE NO TRACE– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews and friends have said it is excellent

5) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU– Jacob Burns. Fairly good reviews for this comedy that didn’t sound so good to me. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THE KING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Driving a Rolls-Royce once owned by Elvis Presley — with a revolving crew of musicians in the backseat — director Eugene Jarecki embarks on a 2016 cross-country road trip to explore how Elvis lost his authenticity as America lost its democracy.”

6/22/18- Fair reviews from the critics and terrible ones from audiences.

2) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I enjoyed this documentary very much

Mission Impossible and Mama Mia are playing here also

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY- (see above for reviews)

1) THE KING– see above

2) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I enjoyed this documentary very much

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

4/24/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

Mission Impossible and Mama Mia are playing here also

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) THE KING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Driving a Rolls-Royce once owned by Elvis Presley — with a revolving crew of musicians in the backseat — director Eugene Jarecki embarks on a 2016 cross-country road trip to explore how Elvis lost his authenticity as America lost its democracy.”

6/22/18- Fair reviews from the critics and terrible ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) YELLOW SUBMARINE– 1968. The classic Beatles movie

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

1) LOVE, CECIL– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “A photographer, set and costume designer, and writer, Cecil Beaton takes his own turn in the spotlight in this engaging documentary that draws on personal diaries, archival footage and photos to profile one of the 20th century’s great tastemakers.”

6/29/18- Good reviews from the critics but poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) THE KING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Driving a Rolls-Royce once owned by Elvis Presley — with a revolving crew of musicians in the backseat — director Eugene Jarecki embarks on a 2016 cross-country road trip to explore how Elvis lost his authenticity as America lost its democracy.”

6/22/18- Fair reviews from the critics and terrible ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I liked this documentary very much

5) LEAVE NO TRACE– Very good reviews and friends have liked it very much. Limited screenings

6) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT- Good reviews. Limited screenings

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 26, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE LEISURE SEEKER– Netflix Disc.

2) DISOBEDIENCE– Netflix Disc.

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– At the Theater

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– 2018. “This riveting documentary charts the twisty story of identical triplets separated at birth, who reconnect by chance at age 19. But what starts as a happy reunion soon sets off a series of events that lead to shocking and sinister secrets.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7/24/18- An excellent documentary- really an expose. I’d recommend it highly. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE LEISURE SEEKER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Leisure Seeker stars Academy Award-winner® Helen Mirren and two-time Golden Globe-winner® Donald Sutherland as a runaway couple going on an unforgettable journey in the faithful old RV they call The Leisure Seeker, travelling from Boston to The Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West. They recapture their passion for life and their love for each other on a road trip that provides revelation and surprise right up to the very end.”

6/28/18- Generally I will not miss a road movie but I may make an exception for this movie with terrible reviews. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

7/22/18- Well, I went against my own suggestion and saw this road movie. Great acting by Sutherland and Mirren really makes the movie. A poignant ending as well. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) DISOBEDIENCE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After the death of her Orthodox rabbi father, lapsed Jew Ronit returns to her London roots and sparks community outrage when she resumes her past affair with childhood friend Esti, who has since married Ronit’s cousin.”

4/26/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/22/18- Very well done movie with excellent acting by the two lead actresses. Definitely worth seeing. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JULY 31-

(These were already listed in last week’s edition)

1) HUMAN FLOW– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Directed by famed artist and social activist Ai Weiwei, this affecting documentary depicts the grim circumstances and future hopes of more than 65 million refugees worldwide, driven from their homes by starvation, war and ethnic oppression.”

10/15/17- Very good critical review – audiences were less enthusiastic. TRDB.

2) NO DRESS CODE REQUIRED– 2017. “This empathetic documentary chronicles the stymied wedding plans of stylists Victor and Fernando, who wage a battle for their legal rights after finding that gay couples aren’t allowed to marry in the Mexican state of Baja California.”

11/3/17- Early reviews are good. TRDB.

3) TULLY-2018, Synopsis by Netflix. “After her first two kids were born, Marlo had no help, so it’s with reluctance that she accepts her brother’s gift of “night nanny” Tully upon the birth of her third child. Initially at loggerheads, Marlo and Tully gradually form a bond.”

5/2/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5/5/18- Good but certainly not great and I would definitely recommend it. TRDB.

4) ANYTHING-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of his wife’s death, Early Landry moves from Mississippi to Los Angeles, where his sister lives. After renting an apartment in a shabby building, Early soon meets his neighbor Freda — a woman unlike any he’s ever met before.”

5/11/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

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

4/20/18- Fair reviews. TRDB.

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

Recommended-

1) McQUEEN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “One of the most innovative fashion designers of his day, Alexander McQueen had a brilliant career that ended tragically with his suicide at age 40. This revealing documentary details McQueen’s achievements in couture and his emotional woes.

7/19/18- Uniformly good reviews but nowhere did I see “excellent.” TRDB.

2) BLINDSPOTTING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With three days left in his yearlong probation, ex-con Collin is working at a moving company with his childhood best pal and watching the time tick down when he witnesses a police shooting that jeopardizes his freedom and the friendship.”

7/19/18- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

3) PIN CUSHION– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As mother-daughter duo Lyn and Iona settle into life in a new town, Iona’s new acquaintances quickly turn out to be frenemies, while shy Lyn is rebuffed socially. When Lyn and Iona each retreat into fantasy, their close bond starts to unravel.”

7/20/18– Mostly great reviews from the critics. TRDB.

4) FAR FROM THE TREE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Challenging conventional perceptions of “normality,” this affecting documentary looks at the special effort required to raise children who are profoundly different, profiling seven families as they confront the difficulties and reap the rewards.”

7/19/18- Just a few reviews at present and they are all good. TRDB.

5) THE THIRD MURDER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intricate crime thriller follows renowned defense attorney Shigemori, whose client Misumi has confessed to the murder he’s charged with. But Shigemori’s investigations suggest that there’s more to the case than meets the eye.”

7/20/18- Very good reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. A few very negative ones as well. TRDB.

6) THE RISE AND FALL OF A SMALL FILM COMPANY- 1964.

Not Recommended–

1) GENERATION WEALTH– 2018.  Synopsis by Netflix. “For many, the American Dream has become a nightmare, with the quest for material possessions outpacing people’s earning potential. Using her 25-year body of work, photographer and filmmaker Lauren Greenfield examines our wealth-obsessed society.”

7/19/18- Poor reviews. TRDB.

________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

1) THE SHAPE OF WATER– I liked the movie very much

2) DISOBEDIENCE– Very good

3) LEAN ON PETE– Very good reviews

4) THE LEISURE SEEKER– A little light but great acting

5) WONDER– Great reviews

______________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS- NONE

REPEATS-

1) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT- Clearview 100.  Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences.

2) EIGHTH GRADE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews.

3) LEAVE NO TRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Very good reviews.

4) RBG– Clearview 100. A great documentary about Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

5) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews for this documentary.

6) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Bethel.

7) MAMA MIA– Bethel.

______________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I liked it very much.

2)  THE CAKEMAKER–  Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

3) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT– Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I liked it very much.

2) THE CAKEMAKER–  Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) EATING ANIMALS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on Jonathan Safran Foer’s best-selling book, this eye-opening documentary looks at the high cost — to animals, the environment and human health — of our insistence on cheap food and reliance on the agro-industrial complex that produces it.”

6/15/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– 2018. “This riveting documentary charts the twisty story of identical triplets separated at birth, who reconnect by chance at age 19. But what starts as a happy reunion soon sets off a series of events that lead to shocking and sinister secrets.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7/24/18- An excellent documentary- really an expose. I’d recommend it highly. TRDB.

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

1) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT-  Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences. TRDB.

2) LEAVE NO TRACE- Very good reviews.

3) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– I liked it very much

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 19, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

NEXT WEEK’S EDITION MAY COME LATE, EARLY OR NOT AT ALL!!

I HAVE INCLUDED INFO FOR 2 WEEKS FOR NETFLIX.

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) A CIAMBA– Netflix Disc.

2) 10,000 SAINTS– Netflix Streaming

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) A CIAMBA– In a small Romani community in Calabria, Pio Amato is desperate to grow up fast. At 14, he drinks, smokes and is one of the few to easily slide between the region’s factions – the local Italians, the African refugees and his fellow Romani. Pio follows his older brother Cosimo everywhere, learning the necessary skills for life on the streets of their hometown. When Cosimo disappears and things start to go wrong, Pio sets out to prove he’s ready to step into his big brother’s shoes but soon finds himself faced with an impossible decision that will show if he is truly ready to become a man.”

1/18/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/13/18- A well done movie but the story itself I feel that I’ve seen a few times before. Never-the-less I would still recommend this movie. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) 10,000 SAINTS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a friend overdoses, 17-year-old Jude is uprooted from his Vermont home and sent to live with his father in New York City. Amid a social scene awash in drugs and alcohol, Jude unexpectedly finds kinship with a group of straight-edge abstainers.”

8/10/15- Reviews are just OK for this drama. TRDB.

7/14/18- I enjoyed this drama starring Ethan Hawke. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 24-

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

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

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

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

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

3) LOVE AFTER LOVE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “An introspective examination of grief, this ensemble drama focuses on a family struggling to cope in the wake of the patriarch’s death, as their anger and inner anguish build up stress on their relationships.”

3/30/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

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

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

________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JULY 31-

1) HUMAN FLOW– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “Directed by famed artist and social activist Ai Weiwei, this affecting documentary depicts the grim circumstances and future hopes of more than 65 million refugees worldwide, driven from their homes by starvation, war and ethnic oppression.”

10/15/17- Very good critical review – audiences were less enthusiastic. TRDB.

2) NO DRESS CODE REQUIRED– 2017. “This empathetic documentary chronicles the stymied wedding plans of stylists Victor and Fernando, who wage a battle for their legal rights after finding that gay couples aren’t allowed to marry in the Mexican state of Baja California.”

11/3/17- Early reviews are good. TRDB.

3) TULLY-2018, Synopsis by Netflix. “After her first two kids were born, Marlo had no help, so it’s with reluctance that she accepts her brother’s gift of “night nanny” Tully upon the birth of her third child. Initially at loggerheads, Marlo and Tully gradually form a bond.”

5/2/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5/5/18- Good but certainly not great but I would definitely recommend it. TRDB.

4) ANYTHING-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of his wife’s death, Early Landry moves from Mississippi to Los Angeles, where his sister lives. After renting an apartment in a shabby building, Early soon meets his neighbor Freda — a woman unlike any he’s ever met before.”

5/11/18- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

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

4/20/18- Fair reviews. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST WEEK–

1) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a car accident leaves John Callahan confined to a wheelchair at age 21, the Oregon native begins drawing as physical therapy. Before long, a dark comedic vision emerges — and a career as a cartoonist follows.”

7/13/18- Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences. TRDB.

2) EIGHTH GRADE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Kayla Day begins the last week of a difficult year in eighth grade, the emotional perils of adolescence swirl around her. Though she’s comfortable with her online persona, the looming social challenges of high school terrify her.”

7/12/18- Great reviews!!! TRDB.

3) DARK MONEY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In Montana, corporate campaign financing was prohibited for nearly a century, but “dark money” from anonymous corporate donors now skews the electoral process. This engrossing documentary follows citizens’ grassroots efforts to amend the situation.”

7/12/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) PATH OF BLOOD– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Seized video footage shot by jihadi forces in Saudi Arabia supplies much of the content for this eye-opening documentary that captures the passion of young extremists at an al-Qaida desert training camp.”

7/12/18- Fair reviews in general along with a few very good ones. TRDB.

5) THE OTHER SIDE OF EVERYTHING– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Chronicling her Serbian family’s past and the nation’s history since World War II, filmmaker Mila Turajlic includes pointed and humorous conversations with her mother, Srbijanka, who was a political activist during the region’s decades of turmoil.”

7/12/18- Very good reviews by the critics and even better ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) MILFORD GRAVES FULL MANTIS-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “From his art-filled house and colorful garden in Jamaica, New York, percussionist and free-jazz pioneer Milford Graves reflects on life, music and the creative process in this well-crafted cinematic portrait featuring scorching performance footage.”

7/13/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

7) WHAT WILL PEOPLE SAY?- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After finding 16-year-old Nisha in bed with her boyfriend, her stunned father abducts her and sends her from their home in Norway to live with relatives in conservative Pakistan, where she must adjust to strict societal norms that deny her freedom.”

7/13/18- Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences including some excellent ones. I would definitely see this movie. TRDB.

NOT RECOMMENDED–

1) SHOCK AND AWE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This real-life drama about the manipulation of public opinion recounts the tragically successful efforts of George W. Bush’s administration to convince the American people, wrongly, that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction.”

7/12/18- Terrible reviews from everyone. TRDB.

2) GAUGAIN: VOYAGE TO TAHITI– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Painter Paul Gauguin’s uncompromising artistic quest separates him from his family forever when he chooses exile in Tahiti, where he falls into extreme poverty, suffers health problems and discovers himself.”

7/12/18- Poor reviews in general and some terrible ones as well. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) MAMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN– Bethel, Danbury. Very good reviews for this re-make with the original cast.

2) DON’T WORRY, HE WON’T GET FAR ON FOOT– Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a car accident leaves John Callahan confined to a wheelchair at age 21, the Oregon native begins drawing as physical therapy. Before long, a dark comedic vision emerges — and a career as a cartoonist follows.”

7/13/18- Fairly good reviews from the critics and excellent reviews from audiences. TRDB.

3) EIGHTH GRADE– Jacob Burns. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Kayla Day begins the last week of a difficult year in eighth grade, the emotional perils of adolescence swirl around her. Though she’s comfortable with her online persona, the looming social challenges of high school terrify her.”

7/12/18- Great reviews!!! TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) LEAVE NO TRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Danbury, Clearview 100. Good reviews.

2) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns (limited), Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. Very good reviews and friends have liked it

3) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?- Jacob Burns (limited). Bethel. Very good reviews

4) RBG- Clearview 100. A great documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

5) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU– Jacob Burns, Danbury. Good reviews

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN– Very good reviews for this re-make with the original cast.

2) THE CAKEMAKER–  Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

3) SHOCK AND AWE– Terrible reviews

4) THE CATCHER WAS A SPY– Poor reviews

5) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Very good reviews for this documentary

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) MAMMA MIA!- Very good reviews for this re-make with the original cast

2) SHOCK AND AWE– Terrible reviews

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Very good reviews for this documentary

4) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

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

5/18/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

6/8/18- I enjoyed this movie despite the torment of the main character (Ethan Hawke). Very well acted. TRDB.

2) HEARTS BEAT LOUD– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Brooklynite Frank Fisher is getting ready to send his daughter, Sam, off to college on the West Coast, he can’t quite seem to let go of her. Knowing that the two share a love of music, Frank comes up with a ploy to keep Sam from leaving the nest.”

6/8/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

6/30/18- A fun movie with excellent music as well. I liked it very much. TRDB.

D) THE LIVING ROOM THEATERS-

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– Excellent reviews- limited screenings on week-end only

2) BOUNDARIES– Fair reviews. I’d like to see it. Limited screenings

3) LEAVE NO TRACE– Good reviews

4) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences.

5) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Very good reviews

6) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Very good reviews

JULY 11, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) SUMMER 1993. At the Theater

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

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

5/25/18- Great reviews. TRDB.

7/5/18- A beautiful, well acted sad, sad story from Spain. TRDB. 

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) ON THE BEACH AT NIGHT ALONE– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of a failed relationship with a married man, South Korean film star Young-hee travels to Germany to put some space between herself and her former lover, hoping to clear her head. But leaving the past behind proves difficult.”

11/17/17- Excellent reviews by the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

7/7/18- Some interesting encounters but mostly boring. I did manage to watch the entire movie. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 17-

1) YOU WERE NEVERY REALLY HERE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Emotionally scarred from his experiences as a Marine and an FBI agent, Joe earns a living by saving young women from sex-trafficking rings. But when he attempts to rescue a New York senator’s daughter from a bordello, things quickly get out of hand.”

4/6/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

2) DISOBEDIENCE- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After the death of her Orthodox rabbi father, lapsed Jew Ronit returns to her London roots and sparks community outrage when she resumes her past affair with childhood friend Esti, who has since married Ronit’s cousin.”

4/26/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) DIFFERENT FLOWERS– 2017. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a shocking turnabout, Millie Haven gets cold feet at the altar and flees the scene for the sanctuary of her grandmother’s farmhouse. But Grandma has far less sympathy for Millie’s plight than she had expected.”

9/29/17- Very few reviews– slightly more positive than negative. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) SHARP OBJECTS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When two young girls are murdered in the town where she grew up, journalist Camille Preaker returns home to cover the case. But her traumatic past soon starts to interfere with her reporting efforts.”

7/5/18- Excellent reviews for this made-for-TV (HBO) movie. TRDB.

2) WHITNEY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Whitney Houston’s stunning voice made her a pop-world icon and spawned a career that lasted from the mid-1980s through her tragic death in 2012. This comprehensive documentary charts the singer’s triumphant career and turbulent private life.”

7/4/18- Very good reviews by the critics and fairly good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

3) THE CITIZEN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though Wilson has become a well-liked member of his community since taking refuge in Budapest many years ago, his inability to pass the citizenship exam is holding him back. But that begins to change when he hires a Hungarian woman to tutor him.”

7/5/18- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

4) MOSS- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Sent to deliver pills to his grandmother on his 18th birthday, Moss sets off down the river near his North Carolina home. Along the way, he meets a pretty stranger camping on the riverbank and soon begins a transcendent journey with her as his guide.”

7/5/18- A large number of positive reviews but none said the movie was excellent. As you know, I love road movies and will definitely see this movie eventually. TRDB.

5) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Losing faith in his persuasive skills, telemarketer Cassius Green takes a co-worker’s advice and finds that he suddenly has a gift for selling that elevates him to the executive echelon — where he discovers the chilling secret of his bosses.”

7/5/18- Fairly good reviews for this comedy that didn’t sound so good to me. TRDB.

6) A SKIN SO SOFT- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Intent on sculpting their bodies into perfect masses of muscle, six Quebec bodybuilders — envious of one another — prepare for the next big competition, stretching the patience of family and friends in the process.”

7/5/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

7) UNDER THE TREE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a sleepy Reykjavik suburb, a tree casting a large shadow over the next-door neighbors’ sundeck turns long-festering tensions into an all-out war, with garden gnomes, pets and family members getting caught in the escalating feud.”

7/5/18- Good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

8) CONSTRUCTING ALBERT-2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The most important revolution in culinary history took place in a remote cove on the Catalan coast. The Big Bang of creative discovery that was elBulli sparked from the minds of two brothers from a poor suburb of Barcelona, and gave birth to a new gastronomic universe. Since then the name Adri has become synonymous of creativity. Ferran is the famous maestro people know, however, with 29 years of a brilliant career behind him, the only recognition Albert has achieved is that of being the most underrated chef in the world.”

7/5/18- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

9) RYUICHI SACAMOTO: CODA– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Since the 1970s, Oscar-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto has been a central figure in expanding the profile of electronic music. Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, Sakamoto returns to make a new album, as chronicled in this reflective documentary.”

7/6/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

Recommended–

NEW ON COMCAST- NONE

REPEATS-

1) THE SHAPE OF WATER–

2) CHAPPAQUIDDICK-

3) WONDER–

4) LEAN ON PETE

______________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) LEAVE NO TRACE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “For survivalist Will and his teenage daughter, living off the grid means residing in a nature reserve on the edge of a city — a lifestyle that suits them until they’re discovered and forced into the social services system.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU-Jacob Burns, Danbury. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Losing faith in his persuasive skills, telemarketer Cassius Green takes a co-worker’s advice and finds that he suddenly has a gift for selling that elevates him to the executive echelon — where he discovers the chilling secret of his bosses.”

7/5/18- Fairly good reviews for this comedy that didn’t sound so good to me. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BOUNDARIES- Bethel. Weak reviews but I see road movies whenever I can

2) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Very good reviews

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS-Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100.  Very good reviews

4) WHITNEY– Bethel, Jacob Burns with very limited screenings. Very good reviews.

5) RBG-Clearview 100. Excellent reviews for this documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

_____________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) BOUNDARIES– Weak reviews

2) THE CAKEMAKER– Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) THE CATCHER WAS A SPY– Poor reviews

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY–

1) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Very good reviews

2) RBG- An excellent documentary about Ruth Bader Ginsberg

3) BOUNDARIES– Weak reivews but I love road movies

4) THE CATCHER WAS A SPY– Weak reviews

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) AMERICAN ANIMALS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this riveting drama based on a real-life crime caper, college freshmen Spencer and Warren cook up a plan to make off with their school’s rare book collection, enlisting two fellow students as accomplices to carry out the daring heist.”

5/31/18- Weak reviews– one critic called it mundane and stupid. TRDB.

2) HEREDITARY-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this taut chiller, the Graham family begins a downward spiral after the passing of their grandmother, whose presence lingers. Reclusive in life, she haunts her clan in death as they try to contend with the dark fate she’s handed down to them.”

7/9/18- Very good reviews from the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

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

1) THE CAKEMAKER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thomas, a young German baker, is having an affair with Oren, an Israeli married man who has frequent business visits in Berlin. When Oren dies in a car crash in Israel, Thomas travels to Jerusalem seeking for answers regarding his death. Under a fabricated identity, Thomas infiltrates into the life of Anat, his lover’s newly widowed wife, who owns a small Café in downtown Jerusalem. Thomas starts to work for her and create German cakes and cookies that bring life into her Café. Thomas finds himself involved in Anat’s life in a way far beyond his anticipation, and to protect the truth he will stretch his lie to a point of no return.”

6/29/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) ) BOUNDARIES- Weak reviews

3) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS- Very good reviews

4) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?- Excellent reviews for this documentary

5) AMERICAN ANIMALS- Weak reviews

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 5, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) BACK TO BURGUNDY– Netflix Disc.

2) HEARTS BEAT LOUD– At the Theater

3) TO EACH, HER OWN– Netflix Streaming

4) SUNDAY’S ILLNESS– Netflix Streaming

5) A WALK IN THE WOODS– Netflix Streaming

6) LES COWBOYS– Netflix Streaming

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) HEARTS BEAT LOUD– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Brooklynite Frank Fisher is getting ready to send his daughter, Sam, off to college on the West Coast, he can’t quite seem to let go of her. Knowing that the two share a love of music, Frank comes up with a ploy to keep Sam from leaving the nest.”

6/8/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

6/30/18- A fun movie with excellent music as well. I liked it very much. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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

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

6/28/18- What can I say? Despite the reviews I liked it very much. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) TO EACH, HER OWN– 2018. A French comedy about a young gay woman with a girlfriend and a male lover as well.

7/1/18- Fair reviews at best but I kind of enjoyed this far fetched French comedy. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) SUNDAY’S ILLNESS– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Anabel abandoned her daughter Chiara when she was barely eight years old. Thirty-five years later Chiara returns with a strange request for her mother; she asks her to spend ten days with her. Anabel sees in that trip the chance to get her daughter back, but she does not know that Chiara has a hidden agenda and that she will have to face the most important decision of her life.”

7/1/18- This movie got rave reviews from some of the critics and very good ones from the rest. Audiences were much less praiseworthy. I thought it was just OK. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) A WALK IN THE WOODS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Returning to America after living abroad many years, aging travel writer Bill Bryson decides to focus on his native land by hiking the length of the Appalachian Trail with his long-estranged pal Stephen Katz — a tottering, wisecracking ex-alcoholic.

9/1/15- Reviews are 50/50 and the positive ones have qualifiers but despite the reviews I will probably see this movie. TRDB. 

7/2/18- Well, I liked the movie although Robert Redford is really miscast in this role. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

5) LES COWBOYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the midst of a country-western festival in Eastern France, a 16-year-old girl disappears into the sea of visitors who’ve descended on the area, prompting her father to begin an all-consuming search for the missing girl.”

6/24/16- Fairly good critical review but audiences are not as enthusiastic. TRDB.

7/4/18- The movie held my interest and I enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 10-

1) DIM THE FLUORESCENTS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Neither aspiring actress Audrey nor her best friend, budding playwright Lillian, are getting far in their careers, so they take a job giving role-playing demonstrations at corporate training sessions. But the pressure to succeed may tear them apart.”

1/12/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) A CIAMBA– In A CIAMBRA, a small Romani community in Calabria, Pio Amato is desperate to grow up fast. At 14, he drinks, smokes and is one of the few to easily slide between the region’s factions – the local Italians, the African refugees and his fellow Romani. Pio follows his older brother Cosimo everywhere, learning the necessary skills for life on the streets of their hometown. When Cosimo disappears and things start to go wrong, Pio sets out to prove he’s ready to step into his big brother’s shoes but soon finds himself faced with an impossible decision that will show if he is truly ready to become a man.”

1/18/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

4/3/18- Fairly good reviews for this historical drama. TRDB.

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

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

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

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

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

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

7) HITLER’S HOLLYWOOD– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Between 1933 and 1945, Germany produced more than 1,000 films, only a few of them openly Nazi propaganda. This insightful documentary examines how stereotypes of the enemy and fascist ideology were seeded in audiences’ psyches via the cinema.”

4/12/18- Very interesting and positive reviews. TRDB.

8) THE LEISURE SEEKER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Leisure Seeker stars Academy Award-winner® Helen Mirren and two-time Golden Globe-winner® Donald Sutherland as a runaway couple going on an unforgettable journey in the faithful old RV they call The Leisure Seeker, travelling from Boston to The Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West. They recapture their passion for life and their love for each other on a road trip that provides revelation and surprise right up to the very end.”

6/28/18- Generally I will not miss a road movie but I may make an exception for this movie with terrible reviews. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) WINTER BROTHERS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a small town in rural Denmark, laidback Johan works at a limestone mine, as does his oddball brother, Emil — who steals chemicals from the site to make moonshine. When his hooch is suspected of sickening a co-worker, the community ostracizes him.”

6/28/18- Very good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

2) ROCK RUBBER 45s– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hip-hop promoter and performer Bobbito Garcia lets loose in this autobiographical documentary tracing his rise from New York City’s streets and basketball courts to the airwaves and beyond, spreading sneaker and hip-hop culture worldwide.”

6/28/18- Just a few reviews noted and they are all positive. TRDB.

3) CUSTODY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Caught in the middle of his parents’ bitter divorce, Julien Besson finds his life ruled by the terms of a shared custody order, forcing him to navigate the competing perspectives of his warring parents and to try to keep the worst from happening.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

4) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– 2018. “This riveting documentary charts the twisty story of identical triplets separated at birth, who reconnect by chance at age 19. But what starts as a happy reunion soon sets off a series of events that lead to shocking and sinister secrets.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) LEAVE NO TRACE-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “For survivalist Will and his teenage daughter, living off the grid means residing in a nature reserve on the edge of a city — a lifestyle that suits them until they’re discovered and forced into the social services system.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6) IDEAL HOME– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. ” Celebrity chef Erasmus and his life partner, Paul, are used to doing what they want, when they want. But their lifestyle is thoroughly disrupted when Erasmus’ 10-year-old grandson turns up on their doorstep in the wake of his father’s arrest.”

6/28/18- OK reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

7) RECOVERY BOYS– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In the heart of America’s opioid epidemic, four men attempt to reinvent their lives and mend broken relationships after years of drug abuse. Recovery Boys, from Academy Award nominated director Elaine McMillion Sheldon (Heroin(e)), is an intimate look at the strength, brotherhood, and courage that it takes to overcome addiction and lays bare the internal conflict of recovery. In an effort to break the cycle of generational addiction and trauma, the young men let go of painful pasts as they live in the present, and build a new community in a farming-based rehab.”

6/18/18- Just a few reviews noted and they are all positive. Audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

8) WOMAN WALKS AHEAD–  2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When artist Catherine Weldon leaves her Brooklyn, New York, home in 1889 and travels to the Dakota Territory to paint a portrait of Lakota Sioux leader Sitting Bull, she becomes immersed in the Plains Indians’ struggle over land rights.”

6/29/18- Poor reviews for this movie starring Jessica Chastain.

9) LOVE, CECIL– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “A photographer, set and costume designer, and writer, Cecil Beaton takes his own turn in the spotlight in this engaging documentary that draws on personal diaries, archival footage and photos to profile one of the 20th century’s great tastemakers.”

6/29/18- Good reviews from the critics but poor ones from audiences. TRDB.

10) THIS IS CONGO– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, conflict has raged for more than two decades. This eye-opening documentary puts a human face on the struggles by profiling four survivors: a mineral dealer, a tailor, a whistle-blower and an army colonel.”

6/29/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

11) THE CAKEMAKER– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thomas, a young German baker, is having an affair with Oren, an Israeli married man who has frequent business visits in Berlin. When Oren dies in a car crash in Israel, Thomas travels to Jerusalem seeking for answers regarding his death. Under a fabricated identity, Thomas infiltrates into the life of Anat, his lover’s newly widowed wife, who owns a small Café in downtown Jerusalem. Thomas starts to work for her and create German cakes and cookies that bring life into her Café. Thomas finds himself involved in Anat’s life in a way far beyond his anticipation, and to protect the truth he will stretch his lie to a point of no return.”

6/29/18- Excellent reviews from the critics and fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

12) DARK RIVER-2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of her father’s death, Alice returns to her hometown in Yorkshire after 15 years away to settle the inheritance of the family farm with brother Joe. But a bitter quarrel between the two soon brings traumatic memories to the surface.”

6/29/18- Fairly good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST–

1) WOMAN WALKS AHEAD–  2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When artist Catherine Weldon leaves her Brooklyn, New York, home in 1889 and travels to the Dakota Territory to paint a portrait of Lakota Sioux leader Sitting Bull, she becomes immersed in the Plains Indians’ struggle over land rights.”

6/29/18- Poor reviews for this movie starring Jessica Chastain.

1) UNSANE- Fairly good reviews for this drama/mystery

2) BEIRUT- Good reviews

3) WONDER- Very good reviews

4) I, TONYA– I liked this movie very much

5) THE SHAPE OF WATER– My favorite movie of 2017

6) CALL ME BY YOUR NAME- I enjoyed this movie

7) A KID LIKE JAKE- OK reviews

8) JOURNEY’S END- Very good reviews

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2018. “This riveting documentary charts the twisty story of identical triplets separated at birth, who reconnect by chance at age 19. But what starts as a happy reunion soon sets off a series of events that lead to shocking and sinister secrets.”

6/28/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) WHITNEY– Jacob Burns, Danbury, Bethel. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Whitney Houston’s stunning voice made her a pop-world icon and spawned a career that lasted from the mid-1980s through her tragic death in 2012. This comprehensive documentary charts the singer’s triumphant career and turbulent private life.”

7/4/18- Very good reviews by the critics and fairly good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

3) BOUNDARIES– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With her teenage son in tow, single mom Laura embarks on a road trip she knows will be hellish: picking up her pot-dealer dad from the nursing home he’s been kicked out of and driving him cross-country to her sister’s house.”

6/19/18- Weak reviews but I love road movies and I will try to see this one, starring Christopher Plummer. TRDB.

4) DAMSEL– Clearview 100. 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this loopy take on the classic Hollywood Western, Samuel Alabaster journeys deep into the frontier — with a miniature pony in tow — to find and wed his beloved Penelope. But the trek turns out to be more complicated than Samuel imagined.”

6/26/18- Very good reviews for this Western. TRDB.

REPEATS-

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH–

1) BOUNDARIES– 6/19/18- Weak reviews but I love road movies and I will try to see this one, starring Christopher Plummer. TRDB.

2) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Excellent reviews for this documentary.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY–

1) BOUNDARIES-

6/19/18- Weak reviews but I love road movies and I will try to see this one, starring Christopher Plummer. TRDB.

2) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Excellent reviews for this documentary

3) RBG- Excellent documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) BREATH- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In small-town Australia, teenage “Pikelet” and his best friend, “Loonie,” find an escape in the ocean and a mentor in reclusive professional surfer Sando — who exhorts them to take chances that will has profound and enduring effects on them.”

5/31/18- Good reviews. TRDB.

2) ON THE SEVENTH DAY- 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. ” Bicycle delivery guys, construction workers, dishwashers, deli workers, and cotton candy vendors, they work long hours six days a week and then savor their day of rest on Sundays on the soccer fields of Sunset Park. José, a bicycle delivery worker, is the team’s captain–young, talented, hardworking and responsible. When José’s team makes it to the finals, he and his teammates are thrilled. But his boss throws a wrench into the celebration when he tells José he has to work on Sunday, the day of the finals.”

7/3/18- Excellent reviews by the critics and just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

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

1) A BAG OF MARBLES– Great reviews

2) ALWAYS AT THE CARLYLE– Weak reviews

3) AMERICAN ANIMALS– Poor reviews

4) BOUNDARIES– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “With her teenage son in tow, single mom Laura embarks on a road trip she knows will be hellish: picking up her pot-dealer dad from the nursing home he’s been kicked out of and driving him cross-country to her sister’s house.”

6/19/18- Weak reviews but I love road movies and I will try to see this one, starring Christopher Plummer. TRDB.

5) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Excellent reviews

6) DISOBEDIENCE– Good reviews– limited screenings

7) SUMMER 1993– Excellent reviews– limited screenings

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 21, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) BOOK CLUB– At the Theater

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

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

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

6/19/18- I was persuaded to see this movie- I found it funny at times and silly at times as well. Overall the movie was cute and I did enjoy it. Incidently, I was the only man in the theater. TREB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME- None

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 26-

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

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

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

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

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

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

4) THE MUSIC OF SILENCE– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Faithfully rendering the moving saga of blind tenor Andrea Bocelli, this musical biopic chronicles his meteoric rise to fame and the crossover success that turned him into a worldwide star.”

2/2/18- Terrible, terrible reviews for this movie. TRDB.

5) GEMINI- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “When personal assistant Jill LeBeau finds her boss, rising actress Heather Anderson, shot to death in her own home, Jill becomes the prime suspect in a murder mystery and the target of Hollywood gossip about the women’s close relationship.”

3/30/18- Good overall reviews from the critics but none were excellent. Audiences were less impressed. TRDB.

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JULY 3-

1) SUBMISSION– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Impressed by the talent of creative writing student Angela Argo, professor and author Ted Swenson steadily develops an obsession with her, despite knowing that it will likely ruin his marriage and his career.’

3/5/18- Poor reviews. TRDB.

2) JOURNEY’S END– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in March 1918, this tense World War I drama focuses on a small group of British soldiers in the trenches at Mont Saint-Quentin, France, who know exactly what’s coming: a massive German offensive. But what they don’t know is when.”

3/16/18- Excellent reviews from all sources. TRDB.

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

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

4) FINDING YOUR FEET– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Smugly confident, Sandra Abbott gets a shock when she learns that her longtime husband is sleeping with her best friend. Taking refuge with her free-spirited sister, Sandra grudgingly tags along to a dance class — where she experiences an awakening.”

3/30/18- Good reviews by the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

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

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

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

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

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

4/10/18- Very good reviews in general– the NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

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

4/11/18- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

Recommended-

1) THE YELLOW BIRDS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Friends since training, soldiers Bartle and Murph ship off to Iraq under the command of a ready-to-rumble sergeant. When only Bartle returns, a military investigator and Murph’s grieving mother are determined to make Bartle reveal what happened.”

6/15/18- This movie sounds interesting but received really poor reviews from the critics and from audiences as well. There were a few good ones- one from the NY Times. I think I’d give it a try. TRDB.

2) EATING ANIMALS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on Jonathan Safran Foer’s best-selling book, this eye-opening documentary looks at the high cost — to animals, the environment and human health — of our insistence on cheap food and reliance on the agro-industrial complex that produces it.”

6/15/18- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) STRAIGHT INTO A STORM– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Deer Tick formed in the mid-2000s, leader John McCauley and the band built a solid fan base that’s still with them more than a decade later, as demonstrated in this insightful rockumentary featuring New Year’s Eve performance footage.”

6/15/18- Just 4 reviews so far and 3 look good- 1 doesn’t. TRDB.

4) GABRIEL AND THE MOUNTAIN– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Combining the true story of idealistic Brazilian globetrotter Gabriel Buchmann, who died alone in the mountains of Malawi, and the imagined drama of his final days, this moving docudrama also meditates on the realities and illusions of travel.”

6/15/18- Very good reviews including a few terrific ones. TRDB.

5) FIVE SEASONS: THE GARDENS OF PIET OUDOLF– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “This illuminating documentary opens a window on the complex creative process of Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf as he revisits some of his iconic public works around the globe while developing a major new garden in Southwest England.”

6/15/18- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) TAG– 2018.  Synopsis by Netflix. “This off-the-wall comedy based on real-life high jinks chronicles the anything-goes game of tag played annually by five former schoolmates who go to extreme measures to avoid becoming “It” in the monthlong competition.”

6/15/18- Not my kind of movie– sounds pretty stupid as far as I’m concerned. TRDB.

2) THE YEAR OF SPECTACULAR MEN 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “After graduating from college, Izzy Klein heads to Los Angeles to join her sister, Sabrina, an ambitious actress whose star is on the rise. Lacking focus in her life, Izzy embarks on a string of romantic entanglements.”

6/15/18- OK reviews for this comedy but it sounded real stupid to me. TRDB.

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS- NONE

REPEATS-

1) WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews

2) AMERICAN ANIMALS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Poor reviews

3) RBG– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. A great documentary about Ruth Bader Ginsberg

4) HEARTS BEAT LOUD– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Excellent reviews

5) FIRST REFORMED– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Saw it and liked it but very depressing

6) THE SEAGULL– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Fairly good reviews

____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) GOTTI- Just a few reviews and they are all horrible

2) AMERICAN ANIMALS- Poor reviews

3) THE CATCHER WAS A SPY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based World War II thriller, Boston Red Sox catcher Moe Berg follows a mediocre baseball career with a heroic stint in military intelligence when he’s tasked with stopping the Nazis’ efforts to build an atomic bomb.”

6/19/18- Poor reviews. TRDB.

B) THE MOVIES OF DELRAY-

1) THE GUARDIANS– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this ensemble drama set in rural France, the women of the Paridier farm are left to run it by themselves while their men are off fighting in World War I. But things become complicated with the arrival of American troops.’

5/4/18- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) ALWAYS AT THE CARLYLE– Poor reviews

3) GOTTI- Just a few reviews and they are all horrible

4) POPE FRANCIS: A MAN OF HIS WORD– Good reviews and I will eventually see this- Limited Screenings

4) RBG– A wonderful documentary

C) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

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

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

2) THE CATCHER WAS A SPY– 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based World War II thriller, Boston Red Sox catcher Moe Berg follows a mediocre baseball career with a heroic stint in military intelligence when he’s tasked with stopping the Nazis’ efforts to build an atomic bomb.”

6/19/18- Poor reviews. TRDB.

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

1) ALWAYS AT THE CARLYLE– Awful reviews

2)  AMERICAN ANIMALS– Poor reviews

3) THE SEAGULL– Fairly good reviews

4) SUMMER 1993– Great reviews

5) DISOBEDIENCE- Good reviews- Limited screenings

6) ON CHESIL BEACH– Mixed reviews- more + than – Limited screenings

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB