The Reel Dr. Bob

SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES DURING THE LAST 2 WEEKS-

1) A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS– At the Theater.

2) SULLY– At the Theater

3) THE PATRIARCH (MAHANA)– At the Toronto Film Festival

4) THE MEASURE OF A MAN– Netflix Streaming

5) DEFYING THE NAZIS: THE SHARPS’ WAR– PBS

6) MOUNTAINS MAY DEPART– Netflix Streaming

7) WEDDING DOLL– Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW SINCE THE LAST ISSUE 2 WEEKS AGO- AT THE THEATER–

1) A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bringing to life the memoir of celebrated Israeli author Amos Oz, this affecting drama depicts his early years, when his family was swept up in the turbulence and violence of Israel’s founding as a nation.”8/19/16- Poor reviews, several critics calling it “inert.” I have to see it just for the story but I cannot recommend it. TRDB.

9/8/16– Lots of love and lots of darkness in this drama by and starring Natalie Portman that follows a family that made it to Israel after WW 2. All was not so rosy for them. TRDB.

2) SULLY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Viewers around the world were astonished in 2009 when airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger safely landed an Airbus 320 on the Hudson River after both engines were disabled. This fact-based drama illuminates Sullenberger’s life and heroic achievement.”

9/7/16- Mostly very good reviews for the movie and for Tom Hanks who plays Sully. A few negatives thrown in as well. TRDB.

9/10/16- I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and I was sweating as it played out despite knowing what was going to happen. There have been some interesting discussions in the press about artistic license and  accuracy related to this movie. Tom Hanks was great in the role of Sully! TRDB.

3) THE PATRIARCH (MAHANA)– 2016. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In the 1960s on the east coast of New Zealand, two Maori sheep-shearing families – the Mahanas and the Poatas – are longstanding enemies and commercial rivals. 14-year-old Simeon Mahana, the youngest son, is in conflict with his traditionalist grandfather, Tamihana. As Simeon unravels the truth behind the longstanding family vendetta, he risks not just his own future prospects, but the cohesion of the entire tight-knit society.”

9/17/16- I saw this movie at the Toronto Film Festival last week and liked it very much. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW SINCE THE LAST ISSUE 2 WEEKS AGO- AT HOME–

1) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY-2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This absorbing biopic recounts the life of self-taught Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, who made his way to Cambridge University in 1914 and rose to prominence under the tutelage of renowned math professor G.H. Hardy.”

4/29/16- Fair professional reviews and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

9/19/16- This movie was OK but seemed corny and overacted to me in general. It’s worth seeing. TRDB. Netflix.

2) THE MEASURE OF A MAN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After his long and humiliating search for employment — while scrambling to feed his family — Thierry Taugourdeau lands a job at a megamarket catching shoplifters. But he faces a moral quandary as he begins to sympathize with those he apprehends.”

4/15/16- Excellent reviews and I’ll try to see this one. TRDB.

9/20/16- I really enjoyed this film from France and found myself rooting for Thierry to succeed. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) DEFYING THE NAZIS: THE SHARPS’ WAR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This historical documentary recounts the heroic efforts of Unitarian minister Waitstill Sharp and his wife, Martha, who traveled to Nazi-occupied countries during World War II to help shepherd thousands of persecuted refugees to safety.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

9/21/16- It WAS an excellent documentary about this couple. TRDB. PBS

4) MOUNTAINS MAY DEPART– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Offering a glimpse of China’s past, present and potential future, this epic drama unwinds in three parts, beginning with a Chinese beauty choosing between two suitors and ending in Australia with her 18-year-old son detached from his roots.”

2/13/16- Good reviews. TRDB.

9/21/16- I enjoyed this drama very much. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

5) WEDDING DOLL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mildly mentally challenged, Hagit works at a toilet-paper factory by day and crafts wedding dolls with the leftover materials by night. Longing for romance, she finds it with the plant owner’s son — to the dismay of her fiercely protective mother.”

4/15/16- Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

9/22/16- I liked this touching movie very much. Interesting story and wonderful acting. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 27-

1) UNDER THE SUN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intriguing documentary centers on 8-year-old Zin-mi, who’s about to join North Korea’s Children’s Union on the “Day of the Shining Star”: Kim Jong Il’s birthday. As the film crew follows Zin-mi and her parents, state watchdogs are ever present.”7/7/16- Very good reviews from the critics and just so-so ones from audiences. One reviewer called it the deconstruction of a documentary because of the meddling by North Korean authorities. I’ll definitely try to see this.  TRDB.

2) CITY OF GOLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “From behind the wheel of his green pickup truck, acclaimed food writer Jonathan Gold sets off on a journey to explore the panoply of regional cuisines and trademark dishes to be found within the vast urban sprawl of Los Angeles.”

3/11/16- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) THE JUNGLE BOOK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by the animated Disney classic, this live-action adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s beloved novel follows young Mowgli as he navigates a jungle full of wonder and peril with his animal allies Bagheera the panther and Baloo the bear.”

4/15/16- Great reviews. TRDB.

4) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young misfit Ricky Baker has grown comfortable with his foster parents, Aunt Bella and Uncle Hec. But when Bella’s death threatens to send Ricky back to child services, the irascible Hec heads for the bush with Ricky, setting off a national manhunt.”

6/24/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) EAT THAT QUESTION: FRANK ZAPPA IN HIS OWN WORDS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blending a wealth of personal interviews and concert footage, this in-depth biography paints a fascinating portrait of avant-garde musician Frank Zappa, whose iconoclastic influence has continued decades after his death.”

6/24/16- Great reviews. TRDB.

6) THE INNOCENTS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of World War II, French physician Mathilde Beaulieu travels to Warsaw to care for survivors and is taken to a convent where numerous nuns were raped by Russian soldiers. With her help, the women begin to regain their faith in God’s mercy.”

6/30/16- Very good reviews and I’ve wanted to see this movie for months. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) ME BEFORE YOU– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Planning to stay just six months, Lou Clark takes on the job of looking after rich but depressed Will Traynor, who’s been left a quadriplegic by an accident. Despite Will’s disillusionment, Lou is determined to show him that his life is worth living.”

6/2/16- Weak reviews from most of the critics. TRDB.

2) THE NEON DEMON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Everyone says modeling is a cutthroat business, but Jesse has no idea that anyone means it literally until she arrives in Los Angeles and finds herself surrounded by women who’ll stop at nothing to possess her youth and beauty.”

6/24/16- Reviews are mainly poor plus I will not see horror movies like this anyway. TRDB.

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 9-

1) THE APOSTATE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this gently absurdist comedy, Gonzalo Tamayo finds himself navigating the baffling bureaucracy of the Catholic Church when he attempts to formally renounce his faith. Tomayo soon discovers that leaving the church is much easier said than done. In this coming-of-age satire told with a gentle nod to the Cohen Brother’s sensibility, the Apostate touches meaningfully on the crisis within the Catholic Church; a crisis that centers on the conflict between tradition and modernity.”9/9/16- OK reviews with several critics calling it “odd” or “different.” TRDB.

2) AS I OPEN MY EYES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the social ferment of Tunisia’s Jasmine Revolution swirls around 18-year-old rock singer Farah, her provocative lyrics draw attention from the police. When she’s detained for questioning, Farah realizes that one of her friends has betrayed her.”

9/9/16- The critics loved the movie– audiences liked it. TRDB.

3) AUTHOR: THE JT LEROY STORY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Perpetrating a literary fraud, Laura Albert — a 40-year-old punk rocker — posed as a transgender teenage boy to publish three novels that were widely hailed as brilliant. In this fascinating documentary, Albert reveals the reasons behind the hoax.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

4) CAMERAPERSON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Longtime cinematographer Kirsten Johnson turns her hand to directing in this compelling visual memoir that combines images from far-flung locations she’s filmed — including Bosnia, Yemen and Rwanda — with touching scenes of her family.”

9/9/16– Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) DEFYING THE NAZIS: THE SHARPS’ WAR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This historical documentary recounts the heroic efforts of Unitarian minister Waitstill Sharp and his wife, Martha, who traveled to Nazi-occupied countries during World War II to help shepherd thousands of persecuted refugees to safety.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

9/21/16- It WAS an excellent documentary about this brave couple. TRDB.

6) DEMON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While digging the hole for a pool at his new home, soon-to-be husband Piotr comes across some old human remains. Keeping the find to himself, Piotr is assailed by deathly nightmares the night before his wedding — but the worst is yet to come.”

9/9/16- Very good reviews by the critics and mediocre ones by audiences. I’ll skip it, but others may like it. TRDB.

7) FOR THE LOVE OF SPOCK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actor Leonard Nimoy played Mr. Spock in the original “Star Trek” TV series, creating a character that would become an icon of American pop culture. In this affectionate documentary, Nimoy looks back on nearly 50 years of playing the wise Vulcan.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8) KICKS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fifteen-year old Brandon ventures into the tough streets of East Oakland to get back a pair of stolen sneakers. The odyssey him and his two best friends embark on is at once the night of their lives and a gamble with life and death stakes.”

9/9/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

9) LANDFILL HARMONIC– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fashioning musical instruments from the acres of trash around them, a group of Paraguayan youths living atop a landfill forms the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura and unexpectedly rises to world fame, as chronicled in this uplifting documentary.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and fairly good ones by audiences as well. TRDB.

10) LONDON ROAD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix “In 2006, five women’s bodies are discovered in the English town of Ipswich. In the wake of the tragedy, the shaken residents struggle to deal with the aftermath and the realization that the killer was a member of the community.”

9/9/16- Fairly good professional reviews but poor audience ones. I’d give it a try. TRDB.

11) OTHER PEOPLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of a painful breakup, New York City comedy writer David Mulcahy decides to suspend his floundering career and help care for his dying mother in Sacramento. Though he puts on a brave face for his family, David is falling apart inside.”

9/9/16- Mostly good reviews– the NY Times was so-so on it. TRDB.

12) STARVING THE BEAST– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This disquieting social documentary studies the shift in American values regarding the advantages of a college education, as more schools feel the pressure to adopt academic models that emphasize career advantage over a well-rounded education.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

13) SULLY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Viewers around the world were astonished in 2009 when airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger safely landed an Airbus 320 on the Hudson River after both engines were disabled. This fact-based drama illuminates Sullenberger’s life and heroic achievement.”

9/7/16- Mostly very good reviews for the movie and for Tom Hanks who plays Sully. A few negatives thrown in as well. TRDB.

9/10/16- I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and I was sweating as it played out despite knowing what was going to happen. There have been some interesting discussions in the press about artistic license and accuracy related to this movie. Tom Hanks was great in the role of Sully! TRDB.

14) TRANSPECOS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Most days are dull for U.S. Border Patrol agents Davis, Flores and Hobbs. But that can change in an instant, as the trio finds out when a routine stop gone wrong leaves them with a dead body, a wrecked vehicle and a cache of cocaine.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews from critics and very good ones from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) BROTHER NATURE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After years of working as a congressman’s top aide, an aspiring politician gets his chance to run for a seat. But when he meets his girlfriend’s family, he realizes that his potential future brother-in-law may represent a serious electoral handicap.”

9/9/16- Poor reviews. TRDB.

2) COME WHAT MAY- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After Nazi forces rout the French army in May 1940, the denizens of a threatened village abandon their homes and head west. Traveling together are a German dissenter in search of his son, and a Scottish officer whose entire unit has been slaughtered.”

9/9/16- This movie sounds interesting but received poor reviews from nearly all critics. TRDB.

3) ITHACA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “It’s the summer of 1942, and with his older brother off at war and his dad dead, 14-year-old Homer Macauley is the man of the house. To support his mom, sister and toddler brother, Homer turns his bike into cash by becoming a telegraph messenger.”

9/9/16- Terrible reviews and this movie is included here because of Tom Hanks. TRDB.

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, SEPT.16-

1) THE BEATLES: EIGHT DAYS A WEEK- THE TOURING YEARS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “From gigs at Liverpool’s Cavern Club to their final concert in 1966 in San Francisco, this insightful documentary centers on the Beatles’ touring years, using found footage and interviews to paint a picture of the band in the context of their time.”9/16/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and generally good ones from audiences. This documentary was made by Ron Howard. TRDB.

2) A FAMILY AFFAIR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This offbeat personal documentary follows filmmaker Tom Fassaert to South Africa, where he meets his enigmatic 95-year-old grandmother and tries to unravel the mysterious truth about the family’s troubled past.”9/16/16- Very good reviews from the critics and the full review sounds even more interesting. TRDB.

3) DANCER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though blessed with ballet skills that brought him global fame, Sergei Polunin had misgivings about the meaning and worth of stardom. At the age of 25, he abandoned the dance world — a decision he candidly reflects on in this immersive documentary.”9/16/16- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. I’ll see it.  TRDB.

4) THE VESSEL— 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Years after a tsunami wipes out a coastal community’s elementary school, washing away all the town’s children, residents remain in mourning. When a young villager miraculously comes back to life after drowning, they believe he can resurrect the dead.”

9/16/16- Good reviews from critics and audiences alike. Some called it spiritual– many called it beautiful and very few didn’t like it. TRDB.

5) FINDING ALTAMIRA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When an amateur archaeologist and his young daughter stumble upon some prehistoric cave paintings in 1879, it’s a groundbreaking discovery that flies in the face of the Catholic Church’s teachings, sparking intense controversy.”

9/16/16- This movie was well rated by the professionals but poorly received by audiences. I’d give it a try as it sounds interesting. TRDB.

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

9/16/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

7) SILICON COWBOYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This absorbing documentary traces the rise and fall of Compaq Computer, a company founded in 1982 by three friends who decided to design and manufacture a personal computer that could challenge IBM’s dominance of the rapidly expanding PC market.”

9/16/16- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

8) SOUTHWEST OF SALEM: THE STORY OF THE SAN ANTONIO FOUR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “During the “satanic panic” of the 1980s and ’90s — when reports of covens, cults and child abuse were rampant — four Texas lesbians were convicted of gang-raping two girls. More than 15 years later, the women continue to proclaim their innocence.”

9/16/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

9) TANNA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living on an isolated Pacific island, a young girl from the indigenous Yakel tribe refuses to submit to an arranged marriage and flees with her lover instead. The couple’s defiance soon threatens to ignite a bitter blood feud on the island.”

9/16/16- Good reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

10) BRIDGET JONES’S BABY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this third chapter of Bridget’s madcap existence, she unexpectedly finds herself pregnant at the age of 43. But with two suitors in her life — barrister Mark Darcy and dashing tycoon Jack Qwant — which one is the father?”

9/16/16- Not my kind of movie but it did receive good reviews. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) HILLSONG: LET HOPE RISE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Springing from humble church roots, Hillsong United has since become one of the world’s most popular Christian rock bands. This upbeat documentary recounts the ascent of the 11-member Aussie group and follows them as they perform around the globe.”

9/16/16- Audiences liked this documentary much more than the critics. I can easily skip it. TRDB.

2) IS THAT A GUN IN YOUR POCKET?- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the town of Rockford, Texas, a schoolboy accidentally shoots a crossing guard, touching off a row between male and female residents. When the men refuse to give up their firearms, the women retaliate by declaring a sex moratorium.”

9/16/16- Terrible reviews and listed here only because of an interesting premise. TRDB.

3) OPERATION AVALANCHE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Reworking an old conspiracy theory, this inventive film follows two CIA operatives posing as documentarians to catch a Russian mole in NASA. Upon learning that Apollo 11 will miss its targeted launch date, they hatch a plan to fake the moon landing.”

9/16/16- OK reviews but it sounds stupid to me. TRDB.

4) SNOWDEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 2013, CIA technical expert Edward Snowden stunned the world by revealing a stolen trove of classified U.S. government documents. This Oliver Stone-helmed drama tells the story of the bold theft that exposed secret NSA mass surveillance programs.”

9/16/16- Weak reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it. Even the positive reviews have disclaimers. SEE “CITIZENFOUR” INSTEAD. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) OTHER PEOPLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of a painful breakup, New York City comedy writer David Mulcahy decides to suspend his floundering career and help care for his dying mother in Sacramento. Though he puts on a brave face for his family, David is falling apart inside.”9/9/16- Very good reviews all around. TRDB.

2) I AM NOT A SERIAL KILLER- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Troubled by his homicidal impulses, teenage John Cleaver does his best to keep his dark imagination at bay. But when a serial killer descends on his town, John must turn to his dark side to track down and destroy the murderer — who may not be human.”

8/26/16- Definitely NOT my kind of movie but it did receive OK reviews. TRDB.

3) FOR THE LOVE OF SPOCK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actor Leonard Nimoy played Mr. Spock in the original “Star Trek” TV series, creating a character that would become an icon of American pop culture. In this affectionate documentary, Nimoy looks back on nearly 50 years of playing the wise Vulcan.”

9/9/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) DANCER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though blessed with ballet skills that brought him global fame, Sergei Polunin had misgivings about the meaning and worth of stardom. At the age of 25, he abandoned the dance world — a decision he candidly reflects on in this immersive documentary.”

9/16/16- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. I’ll see it.  TRDB.

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) DANCER– Clearview 100. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though blessed with ballet skills that brought him global fame, Sergei Polunin had misgivings about the meaning and worth of stardom. At the age of 25, he abandoned the dance world — a decision he candidly reflects on in this immersive documentary.”9/16/16- Fair reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences. I’ll see it. TRDB.

2) WHITE GIRL– Clearview 100. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Shortly after moving into a new apartment, hedonistic college student Leah meets a drug dealer named Blue, and the two hit it off. But when Blue gets busted, Leah must decide what to do with his enormous stash of cocaine.”

9/2/16- OK reviews by the critics and by the NY Times as well. TRDB.

3) SNOWDEN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 2013, CIA technical expert Edward Snowden stunned the world by revealing a stolen trove of classified U.S. government documents. This Oliver Stone-helmed drama tells the story of the bold theft that exposed secret NSA mass surveillance programs.”

9/16/16- Weak reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it. Even the positive reviews have disclaimers. SEE “CITIZENFOUR” INSTEAD. TRDB.

4) THE BEATLES: EIGHT DAYS A WEEK- THE TOURNING YEARS- Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk.  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “From gigs at Liverpool’s Cavern Club to their final concert in 1966 in San Francisco, this insightful documentary centers on the Beatles’ touring years, using found footage and interviews to paint a picture of the band in the context of their time.”

9/16/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and generally good ones from audiences. This documentary was made by Ron Howard. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Fairly good reviews in general.

2) INDIGNATION– Clearview 100. I liked it.

3) EQUITY- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I didn’t car for it

4) HELL AND HIGH WATER– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

5) SULLY- Bethel, Danbury. I liked the movie very much

6) DON’T THINK TWICE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews.

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this remake of the rousing 1960 Western, a motley group of gunslingers comes together to protect the residents of a mining town, who are being terrorized and victimized by a ruthless gold tycoon and his gang of thugs.”9/22/16- Unfortunately, reviews are fairly weak and even the positives were barely positive. TRDB.

2) SNOWDEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 2013, CIA technical expert Edward Snowden stunned the world by revealing a stolen trove of classified U.S. government documents. This Oliver Stone-helmed drama tells the story of the bold theft that exposed secret NSA mass surveillance programs.”

9/16/16- Weak reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it. Even the positive reviews have disclaimers. SEE “CITIZENFOUR” INSTEAD. TRDB.

3) THE BEATLES: EIGHT DAYS A WEEK- THE TOURNING YEARS- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “From gigs at Liverpool’s Cavern Club to their final concert in 1966 in San Francisco, this insightful documentary centers on the Beatles’ touring years, using found footage and interviews to paint a picture of the band in the context of their time.”

9/16/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and generally good ones from audiences. This documentary was made by Ron Howard. TRDB.

4) SULLY- I liked it very much.

5) THE PEOPLE VS. FRITZ BAUER– Very good reviews.

B) THE STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) HELLO, MY NAME IS FRANK- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “A cross-generational coming-of-age story of three teenage girls and a socially awkward man with Tourette’s disorder who bond over a cross-country road trip. Along the way, they each learn to stop using his illness as an excuse to hide from life, and that love and family can be found in unexpected places.”9/19/16- I’ve seen just 1 review and it is good. TRDB.

2) A TOWN CALLED PANIC– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tag along for the small-town adventures of plastic toys Cowboy (voiced by Stéphane Aubier), Indian (Bruce Ellison) and Horse (Vincent Patar) when they buy 50 million bricks, setting into motion a crazy chain of events at their rambling rural home. Now trekking across distant lands, they end up in another world plunged under water in this film based on the Belgian television series of the same name. Stéphane Aubier and Vincent Patar direct.” Very good reviews.

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

1) THE PEOPLE VS. FRITZ BAUER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While serving as a state attorney general in postwar Germany, Fritz Bauer receives word that fugitive Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann is living in Argentina. To bring him to justice, Bauer secretly enlists help from the Israeli Mossad.”8/19/16- Good reviews by the critics and excellent reviews by audiences. TRDB.

2) LITTLE MEN– Good reviews.

3) INDIGNATION– I liked it (limited screenings)

4) EQUITY– I didn’t care for it (limited screenings)

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

SEPT. 8, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

I’M BACK THIS WEEK BUT I’LL BE AWAY AGAIN BRIEFLY NEXT WEEK SO THIS ISSUE WILL HAVE INFORMATION FOR 2 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) OUR LAST TANGO- Netflix DVD

2) SUMMERTIME- At the Theater

3) INGRID BERGMAN: IN HER OWN WORDS– Netflix DVD

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MOVIES I SAW AT THE THEATER SINCE LAST TIME-

1) SUMMERTIME– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fleeing her rural life and moving to Paris, the gay but unschooled Delphine meets avowed feminist Carole, and they begin a passionate affair. When her father falls ill, Delphine goes home to help her mother, and Carole must decide whether to follow.”7/22/16- Very good reviews for this French drama. TRDB.

8/29/16- I saw this and liked it very much. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW AT HOME SINCE LAST TIME-

1) OUR LAST TANGO– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Maria Nieves Rego and Juan Carlos Copes fell in love as teenagers, neither imagined that it would mark the beginning of a stormy 50-year relationship during which they would become the world’s most celebrated tango dancers.”4/15/16- Great reviews by the critics– just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

8/24/16– The great reviews are accurate. Very well done movie and if you like tango be prepared to watch the best. TRDB. Netflix.

2) INGRID BERGMAN: IN HER OWN WORDS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Although she was one of cinema’s most legendary stars, Ingrid Bergman managed to keep her private life invisible to the public. This intimate documentary explores the actress’s revealing and eloquent diaries, as well as her personal film collection.”

11/11/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

9/8/16- A wonderful documentary about the legendary actress, mostly in her own words but also from her adult children. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 13-    LISTED IN THE LAST ISSUE

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 20-

1) SUNDAY BALL– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In Brazil, soccer is the sport of the masses — and nowhere is it more evident than in this engrossing documentary celebrating the competition among 14 favela teams playing just down the road from the site of the World Cup matches.”12/11/15- I’ve seen just 3 reviews and they are all excellent. TRDB.

2) COLLIDING DREAMS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking a considered look at the history of conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people, this comprehensive documentary explores Zionism’s ideals and aims, and the difficulty of finding compromise in a land scarred by decades of hostility.”

3/4/16- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3/11/16- An exhaustive and exhausting account of Zionism and its role from inception to the present day. An interesting study if perhaps a bit too long. TRDB.

3) WEDDING DOLL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mildly mentally challenged, Hagit works at a toilet-paper factory by day and crafts wedding dolls with the leftover materials by night. Longing for romance, she finds it with the plant owner’s son — to the dismay of her fiercely protective mother.”

4/15/16- Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) THE NICE GUYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1970s Los Angeles, this noirish mystery tracks a private eye who teams with a hired bruiser to investigate a missing persons case and a porn star’s suspicious suicide. In the process, the pair stumbles onto evidence of a vast conspiracy.”

5/19/16- Excellent reviews for this drama starring Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling. TRDB.

5/24/16- One critic said that the two stars enjoying working together was the best part of the movie and I agree. Some funny parts but basically stupid. TRDB.

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OPENED  FRIDAY, SEPT. 2-

1) THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Off the coast of Australia, a lighthouse keeper and his wife’s efforts to have a child prove futile, until one day an infant in a rowboat washes ashore. Their choice to raise the girl as their own, however, later places them in a difficult situation.”

9/2/16- Fairly good reviews in general including the NY Times who added the fact that it was like a soap opera at times. I’ll see it. TRDB.

2) ZOOM– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this inventive tale that blends live action and animation, smug filmmaker Edward, would-be novelist Michelle and insecure cartoonist Emma each create a story about one of the others while existing in different realities.”9/2/16- Fair reviews including a few very good and a few very bad ones. TRDB.

3) EQUAL MEANS EQUAL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite talk of female empowerment, the Equal Rights Amendment has yet to be passed, and women remain on uneven footing when it comes to wage discrimination, reproductive rights and more. This cogent documentary makes the case for ratification.”

9/2/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) THE ACADEMY OF MUSES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “”Using a real-life professor and his students as actors, this cerebral drama — an earnest inquiry into the nature of language and desire — centers on a married teacher whose interest in his female students is more than merely academic.”

9/2/16– Just 4 reviews at this time but 3 are very good. Sounds interesting. TRDB.

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OPENED FRIDAY, AUG. 26-

1) DYING TO KNOW: RAM DASS AND TIMOTHY LEARY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When estranged Harvard professors Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert (who later became Ram Dass) reconcile after Leary’s terminal cancer diagnosis, the reunion of the 1960s counterculture icons produces a fascinating dialogue about life and death.”8/26/16- Mostly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) FATIMA– 2016. Despite raising two teen daughters on her own in France, Algerian immigrant Fatima has never mastered the language of her adopted land. When a fall takes her off her feet, she begins a diary, expressing her feelings to her girls in her native Arabic.ings to her girls in her native Arabic.”

8/26/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) FLOYD NORMAN: AN ANIMATED LIFE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engaging documentary traces the life and career of Floyd Norman, the first African-American animator to work for Walt Disney Productions. Ultimately, his hand could be seen in a long list of films, from “The Jungle Book” to “Monsters, Inc.”

8/26/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) MIA MADRE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thrown off balance by her mother’s grave illness, film director Margherita must also struggle with the brash and uncooperative Hollywood actor who’s starring in the dramatic feature she’s trying to finish shooting.”

8/26/16- Very good reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

5) IN ORDER OF DISAPPEARANCE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he sets out to avenge his son’s murder, mild-mannered snowplow driver Nils sparks a war between a Norwegian mobster and his Serbian rival. As the two drug lords battle for supremacy, Nils dodges bullets to fulfill his own quest.”

8/26/16- Fairly good reviews in general. TRDB.

6) KATE PLAYS CHRISTINE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intriguing mash-up of documentary and drama follows actress Kate Lynn Sheil as she heads to Florida to prepare for her film role as Christine Chubbuck, the Sarasota newscaster who committed suicide on the air in 1974.

8/26/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and fair ones by audiences. TRDB.

7) THE INTERVENTION– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Ruby and Peter join three other couples for a weekend holiday, they’re dismayed to discover that their friend Annie has engineered the entire trip to help the pair address their marital problems.”

8/26/16- Fairly good reviews from critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

1) BLOOD FATHER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ex-con, ex-drunk and ex-drug addict John Link has hardly set a sterling example for his estranged teenage daughter. But when she gets into trouble with a Mexican drug cartel after her boyfriend sets her up, Dad finally has a chance to prove himself.”8/26/16- Good reviews but I’ll skip the chance to see Mel Gibson. TRDB.

2) COMPLETE UNKNOWN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While hosting a birthday dinner party, Tom recognizes a friend’s date as a woman he was once close to and is surprised that she doesn’t seem to remember him. Intent on finding out why, Tom follows her from the party, and a revealing odyssey ensues.”

8/26/16- Poor reviews from nearly everybody but the plot does sound interesting. TRDB.

3) DON’T BREATHE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “A blind, rich and reclusive billionaire is hiding a mountain of cash in his home — he’s the perfect target for a trio of teens carrying out a string of robberies. Too bad the kids didn’t consider that their would-be victim may be a psychopath.”

8/26/16- This movie sounds terrifying and I will not see it. TRDB.

4) HANDS OF STONE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “The life and legend of championship boxer Roberto Duran are captured in this biographical drama, which depicts his impoverished childhood, his professional debut at 16, and the 34-year career that made him one of the most revered boxers of all time.”

8/26/16- Poor reviews for this movie but I might see it anyway. TRDB.

5) I AM NOT A SERIAL KILLER- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Troubled by his homicidal impulses, teenage John Cleaver does his best to keep his dark imagination at bay. But when a serial killer descends on his town, John must turn to his dark side to track down and destroy the murderer — who may not be human.”

8/26/16- Definitely NOT my kind of movie but it did receive OK reviews. TRDB.

6) IS THAT YOU?- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After losing his job, 60-year-old Israeli Ronnie flies to the United States to make contact with his long-lost love Rachel. During his search, he crosses paths with student filmmaker Myla, who joins Ronnie on his sentimental quest.”

8/26/16- Weak reviews all around. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND–

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) ZOOM– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this inventive tale that blends live action and animation, smug filmmaker Edward, would-be novelist Michelle and insecure cartoonist Emma each create a story about one of the others while existing in different realities.”9/2/16- Fair reviews including a few very good and a few very bad ones. It sounds weird also. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN OUR BURBS-

1) LITTLE MEN– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 13-year-old Jake moves into his late grandfather’s home, he’s happy to find a built-in pal in Tony, the son of the seamstress who rents the downstairs shop. But while the boys hit it off, a rent dispute quickly puts their parents in conflict.”8/5/16- Very good reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

2) MIA MADRE– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thrown off balance by her mother’s grave illness, film director Margherita must also struggle with the brash and uncooperative Hollywood actor who’s starring in the dramatic feature she’s trying to finish shooting.”8/26/16- Very good reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Off the coast of Australia, a lighthouse keeper and his wife’s efforts to have a child prove futile, until one day an infant in a rowboat washes ashore. Their choice to raise the girl as their own, however, later places them in a difficult situation.”9/2/16- Fairly good reviews in general including the NY Times who added the fact that it was like a soap opera at times. I’ll see it. TRDB.

4) SULLY– Bethel, Danbury. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Viewers around the world were astonished in 2009 when airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger safely landed an Airbus 320 on the Hudson River after both engines were disabled. This fact-based drama illuminates Sullenberger’s life and heroic achievement.”9/7/16- Mostly very good reviews for the movie and for Tom Hanks who plays Sully. A few negatives thrown in as well. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Jacob Burns, Bethel. I’ll skip this one

2) EQUITY- Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. Garden Cinema Norwalk. I didn’t care for it.

3) A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS– Jacob Burns. I plan to see this one.

4) HELL OR HIGH WATER– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews and I’ll see it eventually.

5) COMPLETE UNKNOWN– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Really poor reviews.

6) DON’T THINK TWICE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Decent reviews.

7) INDIGNATION– Clearview 100. I saw it and liked it.

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BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) SULLY– Good reviews but I’d see this one even if it had bad reviews

2) THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS–

3) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Not my kind of movie

4) HELL OR HIGN WATER– Good reviews

5) INDIGNATION– I saw it and liked it

6) HANDS OF STONE– Decent reviews

B) STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

SEPT. 9–SEPT.15

1) LITTLE MEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 13-year-old Jake moves into his late grandfather’s home, he’s happy to find a built-in pal in Tony, the son of the seamstress who rents the downstairs shop. But while the boys hit it off, a rent dispute quickly puts their parents in conflict.”8/5/16- Very good reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

2) RIVER OF GRASS-1995. Synopsis by Netflix. “Cozy and Lee (Lisa Bowman and Larry Fessenden), lovers who are as criminally inclined as they come, plan a road spree of robbery and mayhem. But after bungling a series of heists and having to outrun the police for a crime they didn’t commit, they decide that doin’ what comes naturally requires more effort than they can exert. Talk about laid-back gangsters!”5/4/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5/7/16- I enjoyed the movie despite the lack of action. TRDB.

 

SEPT. 16–SEPT. 22-

1) MY KING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While recuperating from a severe skiing injury, Tony takes time to look back at her turbulent, decade-long marriage to former husband Georgio. In the process, she realizes that her accident may not have been an accident after all.”

8/12/16- Fairly good reviews in general with a smattering of poor ones. TRDB.

2) MADE IN VENICE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rife with gangs in the 1970s, Venice, California, was called the “slum by the sea.” This documentary shows how skateboarding offered another path for Jesse Martinez and how he gave back by getting a skate park built and then slavishly maintaining it.”

9/8/16- Just 1 review noted and it’s good. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) MIA MADRE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thrown off balance by her mother’s grave illness, film director Margherita must also struggle with the brash and uncooperative Hollywood actor who’s starring in the dramatic feature she’s trying to finish shooting.”8/26/16- Very good reviews from the critics and just OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) MY KING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While recuperating from a severe skiing injury, Tony takes time to look back at her turbulent, decade-long marriage to former husband Georgio. In the process, she realizes that her accident may not have been an accident after all.”

8/12/16- Fairly good reviews in general with a smattering of poor ones. TRDB.

3) DON’T THINK TWICE- Decent reviews.

4) EQUITY– I didn’t care for it.

5) INDIGNATION– A very good movie

6) COMPLETE UNKNOWN– Poor reviews.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 25, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

I WILL BE AWAY FOR A LITTLE WHILE AND THIS ISSUE WILL CONTAIN INFORMATION FOR 2 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

THE NEXT ISSUE SHOULD BE ON SEPT. 8th., 9th. OR  10th.- PERHAPS SEPT. 22

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK- (Just one this week)

1) L’ATESSA (THE WAIT)- Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) EQUITY- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While veteran investment banker Naomi Bishop has thrived in the cutthroat, male-dominated financial world, her leadership of a technology company’s initial public offering exposes her to intense pressure from colleagues — and a prosecutor.”7/29/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and mixed ones from audiences. TRDB.

8/23/16- I agree with the audience reviews on this one. I felt like I had seen this movie 3 or 4 times before only better! You can safely skip it. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) SEPTEMBERS OF SHIRAZ– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set during the turbulent days of the Iranian Revolution, this tense drama chronicles the plight of a wealthy Jewish family whose patriarch is arrested, brutally interrogated and accused of spying for Israel.”6/24/16- Although this movie got poor reviews I’d like to see it just for the history. TRDB.

8/18/16- One critic described this movie as “lifeless and by the numbers” and I agree. I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

2) THE WAIT (L’ATTESA)- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As single mother Anna mourns her son’s death, Jeanne, a stranger claiming to be his lover arrives for a visit — unaware of his demise. Withholding the unspeakable truth for as long as possible, Anna begins to grow close to Jeanne.”

4/29/16- OK professional reviews and the same for audiences. TRDB.

8/21/16- I was riveted to the screen. Juliette Binoche is great in the part and despite the slow pace I really enjoyed the movie. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG 30.

1) THE PHENOM–  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Playing in the big leagues is as much a mental game as a physical one. So when rookie ace Hopper Gibson suddenly loses his stuff and is sent to the minors, he’s also sent to a psychologist, who pushes the hurler to get to the root of his problems.”6/24/16-  Good reviews from the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, SEPT. 6-

1) CASA GRANDE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Surrounded by the trappings that wealth can afford, Rio de Janeiro teenager Jean is used to a life of privilege. But his family’s financial collapse soon forces Jean to make some unpleasant and embarrassing changes in his life.”11/13/15- Very good reviews and I liked it. TRDB.

2) NEON BULL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Working behind the scenes of the macho Brazilian sport of vaquejada, Iremar prepares bulls for their entry into the arena, where cowboys try to tug the animals to the ground by their tails. But Iremar’s real ambition is to become a costume designer.4/8/16– Great reviews for this drama. TRDB.

3) THE MEDDLER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the heels of her husband’s death, Marnie Minervini moves to Los Angeles and begins interfering with her daughter Lori’s life. But after Marnie’s chance encounter with a charismatic security guard, she turns her attention in a different direction.”4/22/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

5/8/16- A delightful, poignant comedy with a wonderful Susan Sarandon. TRDB.

4) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this adaptation of a Jane Austen novella, scheming widow Lady Susan Vernon retreats to her in-laws’ rural estate while waiting for scandalous rumors about her to subside. Soon, she’s on the hunt for a husband — and one for her teenage daughter.”

5/13/16- Great reviews. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) MONEY MONSTER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Landing in dire financial straits after following a stock tip from bombastic TV persona Lee Gates, fuming Kyle Budwell takes the lout hostage on live television and threatens to kill him unless he turns the stock price around before the closing bell.”

5/10/16- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

2) THE ONES BELOW–  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Kate and Justin nervously await the birth of their first child, a couple who’s also expecting moves into the downstairs flat. The couples become fast friends, but their relationship turns ugly when their first joint dinner party ends in tragedy.”5/27/16- Mixed reviews including some really poor ones and I’ll definitely skip this thriller. TRDB.

 

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, SEPT. 13-

1) PRESENTING PRINCESS SHAW– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “With the Internet awash in millions of videos by musicians seeking notice, few such artists have much success. But singer-songwriter Samantha Montgomery becomes an exception after drawing the attention of Ophir Kutiel, a master mixer of viral videos.”

5/27/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) THE MEASURE OF A MAN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After his long and humiliating search for employment — while scrambling to feed his family — Thierry Taugourdeau lands a job at a megamarket catching shoplifters. But he faces a moral quandary as he begins to sympathize with those he apprehends.”

4/15/16- Excellent reviews and I’ll try to see this one. TRDB.

3) THE FITS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Captivated by a dance drill team known as the Lionesses and yearning for social acceptance, insecure tomboy Toni tries out for the squad and lands a spot. But just as she starts to gain confidence, inexplicable episodes of fainting plague the group.”

6/3/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) POPSTAR: NEVER STOP NEVER STOPPING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking aim at the modern music industry, this rollicking mockumentary follows a rap star whose life nose-dives after his latest album flops. Looking to make a comeback, he reluctantly resurrects his former boy band.”

6/3/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, AUG. 19-

1) IMPERIUM– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based thriller, young and eager FBI Agent Nate Foster takes on an undercover role that involves penetrating a hard-core white supremacist organization rumored to be gathering the components for a dirty bomb.”8/19/16- Good reviews by critics and audiences, more so by the critics TRDB.

2) IXCANUL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As she awaits an arranged marriage in her remote village, 17-year-old Maria dreams of making her way to the big city. When she accidentally becomes pregnant, Maria gets her chance to experience the modern world, but it’s far from what she expected.”

8/19/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) LO AND BEHOLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Directed by prolific documentarian Werner Herzog, this meditative examination of the history and future of the Internet features interviews with many of the experts whose insights and technological breakthroughs helped fuel the network revolution.”

8/16/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

4) MAKING A KILLING: GUNS, GREED AND THE N.R.A.- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Interlaced with stories from victims of gun violence, this topical documentary details how the National Rifle Association and firearms manufacturers — driven by profit motives — lobby against all attempts to pass new gun-control laws.”

8/19/16- Just 3 reviews– 2 up and 1 down. I’ll recommend it for now. TRDB.

5) MORRIS FROM AMERICA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After moving to the provincial city of Heidelberg, Germany, African-American teen Morris Gentry has trouble making friends and takes refuge in hip-hop music — until pretty Katrin enters the picture.”

8/19/16- Excellent reviews from critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) THE PEOPLE VS. FRITZ BAUER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While serving as a state attorney general in postwar Germany, Fritz Bauer receives word that fugitive Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann is living in Argentina. To bring him to justice, Bauer secretly enlists help from the Israeli Mossad.”

8/19/16- Good reviews by the critics and excellent reviews by audiences. TRDB.

7) SPA NIGHT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As he stands on the cusp of adulthood, David Cho is living with his first-generation immigrant family in Los Angeles’ Koreatown. To help them when money gets tight, David takes a job at a Korean spa, where he discovers an erotic new world of gay sex.”

8/19/16- Excellent reviews from the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended–

1) BEN-HUR- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this remake of the biblical-era epic, Jewish prince Judah Ben-Hur is condemned to slavery after his boyhood best friend falsely accuses him of an assassination attempt. Years later, it’s time for Ben-Hur to take his revenge.”8/19/2016- Awful reviews and I’ll skip it. TRDB.

2) KAMPAI: FOR THE LOVE OF SAKE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite the popularity of Japanese cuisine, less attention has been paid to sake, the rice wine traditionally served with meals. This engrossing documentary explores sake’s long history and the ongoing evolution of the unique beverage.”

8/19/16- Weak reviews. TRDB.

3) A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bringing to life the memoir of celebrated Israeli author Amos Oz, this affecting drama depicts his early years, when his family was swept up in the turbulence and violence of Israel’s founding as a nation.”

8/19/16- Poor reviews, several critics calling it “inert.” I have to see it just for the story but I can not recommend it. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) IMPERIUM– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this fact-based thriller, young and eager FBI Agent Nate Foster takes on an undercover role that involves penetrating a hard-core white supremacist organization rumored to be gathering the components for a dirty bomb.”8/19/16- Good reviews by critics and audiences but more so by the critics TRDB.

2) LO AND BEHOLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Directed by prolific documentarian Werner Herzog, this meditative examination of the history and future of the Internet features interviews with many of the experts whose insights and technological breakthroughs helped fuel the network revolution.”

8/16/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES- for Sept. 9

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) SOUTHSIDE WITH YOU– Jacob Burns, Danbury. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Chronicling a fateful summer day in 1989 when a Harvard Law student wooed a pretty young attorney by taking her on a memorable South Side Chicago date, this engaging romantic drama charts the beginnings of Barack and Michelle Obama’s relationship.”8/23/16- Very good reviews from both critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

2) A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bringing to life the memoir of celebrated Israeli author Amos Oz, this affecting drama depicts his early years, when his family was swept up in the turbulence and violence of Israel’s founding as a nation.”

8/19/16- Poor reviews, several critics calling it “inert.” I have to see it just for the story but I can not recommend it. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– Bethel, Clearview 100. Garden Cinema Norwalk. Woody’s newest– I liked it

2) INDIGNATION– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this movie very much

3) HELL OR HIGH WATER– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

4) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury. Good reviews but it doesn’t appeal to me

5) EQUITY– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews but I was disappointed

6) DON’T THINK TWICE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS- Good reviews but it doesn’t appeal to me

2) INDIGNATON– I saw it and liked it very much

3) EQUITY- Very good reviews. Very good reviews but I was disappointed

B) STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) SUMMERTIME– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fleeing her rural life and moving to Paris, the gay but unschooled Delphine meets avowed feminist Carole, and they begin a passionate affair. When her father falls ill, Delphine goes home to help her mother, and Carole must decide whether to follow.”7/22/16- Very good reviews for this French drama. TRDB.

2) THE CHILDHOOD OF A LEADER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After World War I, a U.S. diplomat moves his family to France, where he’s deeply involved in drafting the Treaty of Versailles. But while he’s preoccupied with his work, his neglected 7-year-old son begins to display ominous personality traits.”7/22/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON

1) INDIGNATION– I saw it and liked it very much

2) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Good reviews (limited screenings)

3) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– I liked it but not as much as others

4) EQUITY- Very good reviews but I was disappointed

5) DON’T THINK TWICE– Good reviews

6) OUR LITTLE SISTER– Excellent reviews for this Japanese film

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 18, 2016

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) MY GOLDEN DAYS– Comcast On-Demand

2) A MONSTER WITH A THOUSAND HEADS– Netflix

3) CASA GRANDE- Netflix Streaming

4) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– At the Theater

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3) MY GOLDEN DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this episodic drama that unfolds in three segments, middle-aged anthropologist Paul Dédalus leaves the field and takes a desk job in Paris, where he muses on his turbulent youth and the love of his life, Esther.”3/18/16- Very good reviews from critics and just fair ones from audiences. The NY Times and WSJ both rated it highly. TRDB.

8/12/16- A poignant coming of age drama from France. Complex and well acted and I enjoyed it. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 23-

1) ALREADY TOMORROW IN HONG KONG- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a chance urban encounter, U.S. expatriate Josh and Chinese-American Ruby, on her first visit to Hong Kong, soon find their way into each other’s hearts as they wander together through the city’s exotic and mysterious neighborhoods.”2/12/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6/19/16- A very weak screenplay but a fine travelogue of Hong Kong kept me with this one. TRDB.

2) BARBERSHOP: THE NEXT CUT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this off-the-wall addition to the “Barbershop” franchise, Calvin, J.D., Eddie and the whole cast of bizarre neighborhood characters stumbles through a new set of comical misadventures.”4/15/16- Good reviews for this comedy by audiences and critics. Not my kind of movie, however. TRDB.

3) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This absorbing biopic recounts the life of self-taught Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, who made his way to Cambridge University in 1914 and rose to prominence under the tutelage of renowned math professor G.H. Hardy.”

4/29/16- Fair professional reviews and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) DARK HORSE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a bid to develop a champion racehorse, Welsh barmaid Jan Vokes and her husband persuade 30 pub patrons to purchase ownership shares in the long-shot venture — leading to the hoof-pounding saga chronicled in this upbeat documentary.”5/6/16- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) SUNSET SONG– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In early 20th-century Scotland, farmer’s daughter Chris Guthrie dreams of making her way in the world, but life has other plans for her. When a series of tragedies leaves Chris in charge of the land, she rises to the challenge. She even finds love.”5/13/16- Very good reviews by the professionals and weak ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) MAGGIE’S PLAN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Although Maggie may not be able to sustain a romantic relationship, she has the rest of her life figured out. But just when she’s ready to roll with her plan to have a sperm-donor baby, Maggie meets the man of her dreams.”5/20/16- Positive reviews by the critics but many had some negative things to say as well. Audiences were less enthusiastic. I like both Ethan Hawke and Greta Gerwig and I’ll try to see this movie. TRDB.

6/3/16- I saw this movie and I enjoyed every moment. Funny and poignant with wonderful characters, each of them trying to be honest with the others and with themselves. TRDB.

7) THE OTHER SIDE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living beyond the reach of “civilized” society, a community of drifters, drug addicts and disillusioned veterans hang on together amid poverty and frustration, sharing a bitter awareness that the U.S. government and society have left them behind.”5/20/16- No professional reviews as yet but audiences have uniformly liked it. TRDB.

8) WEINER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After resigning from Congress amid a sexting scandal, Anthony Weiner sets out to make a comeback in a 2013 campaign for mayor of New York City. Yet, as chronicled in this incisive documentary, his ambitions get derailed when a new scandal erupts.”5/20/16- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5/30/16- Painful to watch but it was a very good study of self-destruction that seems to affect lots of public figures. Worth seeing. TRDB.

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, AUG. 12-

1) ABORTION: STORIES WOMEN TELL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This topical documentary approaches the emotional issue of abortion from a different perspective, chronicling the personal stories of women struggling to assert their reproductive rights in the face of repressive state laws and censure.”8/12/16- Great reviews!! TRDB.

2) DISORDER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just back from Afghanistan — and with post-traumatic stress disorder to prove it — paranoid soldier Vincent signs on to protect a Lebanese businessman’s family. But Vincent soon loses his grip on reality and is sure that somebody is after them.”

8/12/16- Mixed reviews– Fairly good from the critics and a bit weaker by audiences. Sounds good to me. TRDB.

3) HELL OR HIGH WATER. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Faced with losing the family farm to foreclosure, brothers Toby and Tanner decide that their best move is to rob some banks. Not surprisingly, their plans quickly go awry, and a grizzled but relentless lawman picks up their trail.

8/12/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) JOSHY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though he’s still reeling four months after his fiancée’s death, Josh elects to go ahead with a backwoods bachelor party — which soon turns into a wild weekend binge complete with booze, drugs and hookers.”

8/12/16- Sounds like trash but this movie has received fairly good reviews from the critics so I expect that it has more to offer than the synopsis would imply. TRDB.

5) THE LOST ARCADE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “From its opening in 1944, the Chinatown Fair arcade was one of the few places in New York City where youngsters from all races could freely mingle. This affectionate documentary chronicles the classic arcade’s captivating history.”

8/12/16- Fair reviews. TRDB.

6) THE MODEL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “At just 16, beautiful Emma leaves Denmark for Paris, hoping to establish herself as a top fashion model. When she meets disarming photographer Shane, the two begin an intense affair, but Emma’s infatuation gradually morphs into obsession.”

8/12/16- Just 4 reviews– 3 positive including the NY Times and 1 negative. Does sound interesting. TRDB.

7) MY KING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While recuperating from a severe skiing injury, Tony takes time to look back at her turbulent, decade-long marriage to former husband Georgio. In the process, she realizes that her accident may not have been an accident after all.”

8/12/16- Fairly good reviews in general with a smattering of poor ones. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) OPERATION CHROMITE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Centering on eight soldiers tasked with executing a daring spy mission during the Korean War, this white-knuckle military drama chronicles the “X-ray” operation, in which the team must steal the mine chart from the North Koreans and abduct a general.”

8/12/16- Weak reviews from everybody. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) DISORDER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just back from Afghanistan — and with post-traumatic stress disorder to prove it — paranoid soldier Vincent signs on to protect a Lebanese businessman’s family. But Vincent soon loses his grip on reality and is sure that somebody is after them.”8/12/16- Mixed reviews– Fairly good from the critics and a bit weaker by audiences. Sounds good to me. TRDB.

2) JOSHY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though he’s still reeling four months after his fiancée’s death, Josh elects to go ahead with a backwoods bachelor party — which soon turns into a wild weekend binge complete with booze, drugs and hookers.”

8/12/16- Sounds like trash but this movie has received fairly good reviews from the critics so I expect that it has more to offer than the synopsis would imply. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) HELL OR HIGH WATER. Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Faced with losing the family farm to foreclosure, brothers Toby and Tanner decide that their best move is to rob some banks. Not surprisingly, their plans quickly go awry, and a grizzled but relentless lawman picks up their trail.8/12/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) EQUITY– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While veteran investment banker Naomi Bishop has thrived in the cutthroat, male-dominated financial world, her leadership of a technology company’s initial public offering exposes her to intense pressure from colleagues — and a prosecutor.”

7/29/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and mixed ones from audiences. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Woody’s newest — I liked it

2) DON’T THINK TWICE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

3) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury. Good reviews but it doesn’t appeal to me

4) INDIGNATION– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this movie very much

5) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Jacob Burns. I just saw it and I liked it

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) EQUITY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While veteran investment banker Naomi Bishop has thrived in the cutthroat, male-dominated financial world, her leadership of a technology company’s initial public offering exposes her to intense pressure from colleagues — and a prosecutor.”7/29/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and mixed ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) INDIGNATION– I liked this movie very much

3) CAFE SOCIETY– Woody’s newest — I liked it

4) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Good reviews but it doesn’t appeal to me

B) STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) LO AND BEHOLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Directed by prolific documentarian Werner Herzog, this meditative examination of the history and future of the Internet features interviews with many of the experts whose insights and technological breakthroughs helped fuel the network revolution.”8/16/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) THE WITNESS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “More than 10 years in the making, this affecting documentary follows Bill Genovese on his personal crusade to learn the truth about the 1964 death of his sister Kitty, who was raped and murdered as dozens of witnesses purportedly did nothing.”6/3/16- The critics liked this movie– audience reviews were mixed. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) EQUITY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While veteran investment banker Naomi Bishop has thrived in the cutthroat, male-dominated financial world, her leadership of a technology company’s initial public offering exposes her to intense pressure from colleagues — and a prosecutor.”7/29/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and mixed ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Very good reviews and my have liked it very much

3) DON’T THINK TWICE– Good reviews

4) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Very good reviews

5) INDIGNATION– I liked this movie very much

6) OUR LITTLE SISTER– Excellent reviews for this Japanese film

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 11, 2016

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) INDIGNATION– At the Theater

2) ZERO DAYS– Comcast On-Demand

3) DOUGH– Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) INDIGNATION– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s admitted to a rigidly Christian college in the Midwest, Marcus Messner also achieves another goal: to get away from his domineering Jewish dad. But Marcus’ optimism is soon tempered by a nettling dean and signs of anti-Semitism on campus.”7/29/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/6/16- I liked this movie very much. A painful story to watch but worth the effort. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) ZERO DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the United States and Israel developed malware to sabotage a key part of Iran’s nuclear program, the worm was supposed to vanish after doing its job. Though the first phase was a success, the second wasn’t, as detailed in this chilling documentary.”7/8/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

8/7/16- A scary documentary about cyber warfare and its effects on our society. Definitely worth seeing. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

2) DOUGH- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his business faltering badly, Jewish baker Nat is under pressure from his son to close his shop down. The arrival of a young Muslim apprentice, however, soon puts an unexpected charge in Nat’s sales.”

2/10/16- Reviews are positive for this comedy. TRDB.

8/10/16- A fluffy comedy that was totally predictable at every stage. A few funny parts also if you can suspend reality. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 16-

1) INGRID BERGMAN IN HER OWN WORDS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Although she was one of cinema’s most legendary stars, Ingrid Bergman managed to keep her private life invisible to the public. This intimate documentary explores the actress’s revealing and eloquent diaries, as well as her personal film collection.”11/11/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) OUR LAST TANGO– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Maria Nieves Rego and Juan Carlos Copes fell in love as teenagers, neither imagined that it would mark the beginning of a stormy 50-year relationship during which they would become the world’s most celebrated tango dancers.”4/15/16- Great reviews by the critics– just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

3) IN JACKSON HEIGHTS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Famous for his profiles of institutions ranging from prisons to ballet companies, Frederick Wiseman turns his lens on something different: a community. The result is a riveting portrait of Jackson Heights, Queens, where 167 languages are spoken.”12/1/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) 11 MINUTES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While a handful of disparate Warsaw residents are caught up personal dramas, several sharp turns take place in their lives over the space of 11 minutes as their paths start to intersect, leading to a fateful outcome.”4/8/16- Very weak reviews. TRDB.

2) SKY  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Parisians Romy and Richard are vacationing in the United States when fissures in their marriage finally erupt, leading Romy to turn her back on her former life and head into the unknown to explore her newfound independence.”

4/15/16- Mixed early reviews from critics but audiences have not liked this at all. TRDB.

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OPENED FRIDAY, AUG. 5-

1) CITIZEN SOLDIER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Citizen Soldier is a unique look into the Oklahoma 45th National Guard Brigade, better known as the “Thunderbirds.” Sgt. Eran Harrill represents the members of the Thunderbirds well. He is a hero, a devoted single father and a proud member of the Oklahoma National Guard. The film, Citizen Soldier, is as close to experiencing war on the front lines of fighting without actually being there. He used helmet cams to capture the daily life of his unit – a unit that had one of the highest enemy kill rates, as well as one of the largest casualty counts of the Iraq and Afghanistan war. This is the story of the National Guard…one day working a normal 9 to 5 job, the next day fighting America’s wars on the front lines.”8/5/16- Fairly good reviews for this documentary and I’d like to see it. TRDB.

2) FRONT COVER- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “One man does all he can to veil his Asian heritage; the other takes great pains to hide his sexual orientation. Both of these things begin to change when Ryan is hired to prepare film star Ning for a fashion shoot, and the men develop a bond.”

8/5/16- Fairly good reviews in general– the NY Times gave it passing grades. TRDB.

3) LITTLE MEN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 13-year-old Jake moves into his late grandfather’s home, he’s happy to find a built-in pal in Tony, the son of the seamstress who rents the downstairs shop. But while the boys hit it off, a rent dispute quickly puts their parents in conflict.”

8/5/16- Very good reviews from the critics and good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

4) THE LITTLE PRINCE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapting the classic children’s book as an animated feature for the first time, this magical tale follows a pilot who’s crash-landed in the desert, where he meets a remarkable alien boy who’s on Earth as part of a tour of the cosmos.”

8/5/16- Animation is not my kind of movie but this one received such wonderful reviews that I’ve included it here. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) BAZODEE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Plans for Anita Panchouri’s arranged marriage to a wealthy Londoner hit a snag when she falls for Lee de Leon, a rasta singer who’s hired to perform at her engagement party. The lovestruck Anita decides to spend one night with Lee before her wedding.”8/5/16- Weak reviews, even from the ones who said they liked it. TRDB.

2) FIVE NIGHTS IN MAINE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just before Sherwin’s wife dies from wounds suffered in a car crash, she asks him to visit her mother, Lucinda, who he’s never met. After an awkward meeting, the strangers begin a dialogue that helps both come to terms with their shock and grief.”

8/5/16- The NY Times gave this an OK rating but few others did likewise. It sounds good but I’ll skip it for now. TRDB.

3) WILL YOU DANCE WITH ME? 2016. Synopsis by IMDB. “Twenty years after the death of Derek Jarman, a heretofore unknown Jarman film comes to light. Found by friend Ron Peck, Jarman shot inside Benjy’s, a now closed gay nightclub in east London. The film is shown in it’s 78 minute unedited glory, meant to be experimental footage to assist friend Peck for the future filming of Peck’s Empire State (1987), and set to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, among others.”

8/6/16- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) ANTS ON A SHRIMP– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This tasty culinary documentary follows renowned Chef René Redzepi, owner of Denmark’s world-famous Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, as he takes his entire staff to Tokyo to create a spectacular 14-course menu using only local ingredients.”7/29/16- Just 4 reviews so far– 3 good (including the NY Times) and 1 not so good. TRDB.

2) RICHARD LINKLATER: DREAM IS DESTINY–  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Award-winning director Richard Linklater is a rarity in the movie business: a true independent who’s refused to abandon his home base of Austin and continues to work with a core group of artists. This film reveals the man and the movement he sparked.”8/5/16- Good reviews for this documentary about the famed movie director. The NY Times thought that it was a bit too conventional for a guy who isn’t. TRDB.

3) MY GOLDEN DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this episodic drama that unfolds in three segments, middle-aged anthropologist Paul Dédalus leaves the field and takes a desk job in Paris, where he muses on his turbulent youth and the love of his life, Esther.”3/18/16- Very good reviews from critics and fairly good ones from audiences. The NY Times and WSJ both rated it highly. TRDB.

REPEATS-

__________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Danbury.2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite her horrid singing voice, New York City heiress Florence Foster Jenkins is certain she can become an opera star. Her partner and manager, St Clair Bayfield, does all he can to shield Florence from the truth, but his task may prove impossible.”8/10/16- To open tomorrow, this movie got very good ratings but it seems to me that the ratings were based on the actors likability in the past and not on the story at all. I’ll recommend it but just barely. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) INDIGNATION– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I saw this movie and liked it very much

2) DON’T THINK TWICE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews

3) CAFE SOCIETY– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Woody Allen’s newest movie- I liked it a lot

4) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. Very good reviews and I can’t wait to see it

__________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– I liked this new Woody movie

2) FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS– Good reviews but it doesn’t appeal to me

B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) LIFE, ANIMATED– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When once-chatty Owen Suskind stops speaking at age 3, the only stimuli he responds to are Disney films. Four years later, his dad breaks Owen’s silence by talking to him as a character from one of those movies — which suddenly opens up his world.”7/1/16- Uniformly very good reviews for this documentary with the notable exception of the NY Times. TRDB.

2) THE INNOCENTS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of World War II, French physician Mathilde Beaulieu travels to Warsaw to care for survivors and is taken to a convent where numerous nuns were raped by Russian soldiers. With her help, the women begin to regain their faith in God’s mercy.”6/30/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) CATAIN FANTASTIC– I can’t wait to see this movie

2) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Very good reviews

3) INDIGNATION– I liked this movie very much

4) OUR LITTLE SISTER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When three sisters travel to their long-absent father’s rural home to attend his funeral, they meet their now-orphaned half-sister for the first time and offer to take her in, setting the stage for a confrontation with the family’s past.”7/8/16- Excellent reviews for this Japanese film. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 4, 2016

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) TALLULAH- Netflix Streaming

2) THE RUSSIAN WOODPECKER– Netflix.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) TALLULAH– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Acting upon a sudden maternal impulse, plucky young drifter Lu makes off with another woman’s baby. With nowhere else to go, Lu takes refuge at the home of her ex-boyfriend’s mother, who believes the tot is her grandchild.”7/29/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/29/16- I liked the movie despite hating every scene in which the mother of the baby appeared. Ellen Page is very good as usual. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) THE RUSSIAN WOODPECKER– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Affected as a boy by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Ukrainian artist Fedor Alexandrovich travels to the Exclusion Zone to pursue his suspicions about the meltdown’s link to the Duga, a huge Soviet radio antenna located near the Chernobyl site.”

10/16/15- Excellent reviews by critics and good ones by audiences. TRDB.

8/3/16- A fascinating documentary with lots of unproven theories. TRDB. Netflix.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 9-

1) SWEET BEAN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Looking for help in his bakery — where he specializes in doriyaki pastries — Sentaro hires 76-year-old Tokue. To Sentaro’s surprise, his new employee has a unique talent for making the popular delicacy … but she’s also hiding a troubling secret.”3/18/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) A HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Teetering on the edge of bankruptcy, U.S. businessman Alan Clay tries to reverse his fortunes by landing a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia. As Alan attempts to navigate his way through an unfamiliar culture, he unexpectedly finds romance.” 4/22/16– Fair reviews from the critics but excellent ones from audiences. It sounds interesting to me and the NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

3) A MONSTER WITH A THOUSAND HEADS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As her husband grapples with cancer, Sonia’s repeated calls to their medical insurers go unanswered, preventing any treatment. Driven to desperation, Sonia vows to get the company’s attention by any means necessary — including violence.”5/15/16- Very good reviews by the critics and excellent ones from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) FATHERS AND DAUGHTERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unfolding via interwoven narratives, this touching drama follows novelist Jake Davis after he loses his wife in a car crash and becomes a single dad to 5-year-old Katie, who’s still struggling three decades later to overcome her tumultuous childhood.”7/8/16- Weak reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED FRIDAY, JULY 29-

1) ANTS ON A SHRIMP- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This tasty culinary documentary follows renowned Chef René Redzepi, owner of Denmark’s world-famous Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, as he takes his entire staff to Tokyo to create a spectacular 14-course menu using only local ingredients.”7/29/16- Just 4 reviews so far– 3 good (including the NY Times) and 1 not so good. TRDB.

2) CAN WE TAKE A JOKE?- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Free speech was once a topic of pride for most Americans, but a growing sensitivity to what some consider offensive language has led comedians and social scientists to decry the current climate of political correctness as a threat to free expression.”

7/29/16- Mixed reviews for this documentary– more positive than negative. TRDB.

3) EQUITY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While veteran investment banker Naomi Bishop has thrived in the cutthroat, male-dominated financial world, her leadership of a technology company’s initial public offering exposes her to intense pressure from colleagues — and a prosecutor.”

7/29/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and mixed ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) GLEASON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Five years after a blocked punt made New Orleans Saints defensive back Steve Gleason a hero, he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. This compelling documentary, begun as a video diary for his then-unborn son, charts Gleason’s struggle.”

7/29/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) HOMO SAPIENS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unfolding without narration, this visually compelling documentary offers a gallery of affecting and often bleak images of abandoned structures around the world, from prisons and hospitals to amusement parks and nuclear reactors.”7/29/16- A limited number of reviews but they are all good. TRDB.

6) INDIGNATION– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s admitted to a rigidly Christian college in the Midwest, Marcus Messner also achieves another goal: to get away from his domineering Jewish dad. But Marcus’ optimism is soon tempered by a nettling dean and signs of anti-Semitism on campus.”

7/29/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) INTO THE FOREST– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this near-future vision of America’s collapse, two sisters living in an isolated forest cabin slowly become aware that a continental power outage may be permanent, leaving them in uncharted territory that will test their fortitude and their bond.”

7/29/16- Sounds a bit weird but good critical review. Audiences have not cared for the movie, however. TRDB.

8) THE LAND– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Cleveland teens Cisco, Boobie, Junior and Patty Cake plan to use their skateboarding skills to catapult themselves out of the ‘hood, but a chance discovery of a cache of pills may provide an opportunity to escape much faster.”

7/29/16- Mixed reviews– more plus than minus. TRDB.

9) MISS SHARON JONES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Barbara Kopple shadows R & B singer Sharon Jones during a difficult but ultimately triumphant year of her life, during which Jones battles cancer and struggles to keep her backing band from drifting apart.”

7/29/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

10) ON THE SILVER GLOBE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a spaceflight crashes on the moon, the survivors establish a new society. Shortly afterward, all but one of the adults die, leaving the children to create their own civilization. When a visitor from Earth lands in this bizarre place, the children immediately welcome him as a messiah. Filmmaker Andrzej Zulawski labored for years to complete this chilling vision of the future after the original negatives were seized by Polish authorities.”

7/29/16- Mixed reviews but I’ll see it because it was subjected to press censorship in Poland. TRDB.

11) SHELLEY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Kasper and Louise learn that she’s unable to bear a child, their immigrant maid, Elena, agrees to serve as their surrogate — for a tidy sum. But when the fetus starts growing abnormally fast, it’s evident that this is no regular pregnancy.”

7/29/16- Not my kind of movie but it did receive good reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST-

1) ANTS ON A SHRIMP- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This tasty culinary documentary follows renowned Chef René Redzepi, owner of Denmark’s world-famous Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, as he takes his entire staff to Tokyo to create a spectacular 14-course menu using only local ingredients.”7/29/16- Just 4 reviews so far– 3 good (including the NY Times) and 1 not so good. TRDB.

2) SHELLEY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Kasper and Louise learn that she’s unable to bear a child, their immigrant maid, Elena, agrees to serve as their surrogate — for a tidy sum. But when the fetus starts growing abnormally fast, it’s evident that this is no regular pregnancy.”

7/29/16- Not my kind of movie but it did receive good reviews. TRDB.

3) INTO THE FOREST– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this near-future vision of America’s collapse, two sisters living in an isolated forest cabin slowly become aware that a continental power outage may be permanent, leaving them in uncharted territory that will test their fortitude and their bond.”

7/29/16- Sounds a bit weird but good critical review by the professionals. Be forewarned that audiences have not cared for the movie. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) DON’T THINK TWICE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After years of treading the boards together, improv troupe the Commune has yet to gain much recognition for its satirical skills. When a member of the group lands a plum TV job, the news creates tumult among those left behind.”7/22/15- Excellent reviews from the critics and fairly good ones by audiences. TRDB.

2) INDIGNATION– Jacob Burns.2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s admitted to a rigidly Christian college in the Midwest, Marcus Messner also achieves another goal: to get away from his domineering Jewish dad. But Marcus’ optimism is soon tempered by a nettling dean and signs of anti-Semitism on campus.”

7/29/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– Jacob burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I saw this and liked it. Woody’s newest.

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews.

3) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Bethel. Very good reviews.

4) THE INNOCENTS– Clearview 100. Good reviews.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– I saw this movie (Woody’s latest) and liked it

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Very good reviews

B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) WIENER-DOG- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unfolding through four vignettes, this episodic tale follows a spirited female dachshund as she’s taken in by a series of shifting owners, including a 9-year-old cancer survivor, a despondent film professor and a crotchety shut-in.”6/24/16- Fair reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences so far. It does sound creative and I’ll probably see it eventually. TRDB.

2) THE MUSIC OF STRANGERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Founded by famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Silk Road Ensemble includes more than 50 musicians, composers and other artists. Touring the globe, the group collaborates with local performers in a quest to broaden the world’s musical horizons.”6/10/16- Very good reviews from critics and fair ones from audiences for this documentary. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Good reviews

2) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Very good reviews

3) INDIGNATION– Jacob Burns.2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s admitted to a rigidly Christian college in the Midwest, Marcus Messner also achieves another goal: to get away from his domineering Jewish dad. But Marcus’ optimism is soon tempered by a nettling dean and signs of anti-Semitism on campus.”7/29/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) INNOCENTS– Good reviews. About nuns that were abused and raped by the Nazis.

5) THE KIND WORDS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While mourning their mother’s death, Jewish siblings Dorona, Netanel and Shai learn that the man who raised them isn’t their biological dad. The news soon sends them on a quest across France to find their real father — who happens to be a Muslim.”6/24/16- Just a few reviews but they are all excellent. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 28, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

AFTER 2 WEEKS I’M BACK AT MY DESK AND READY TO GO-

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) DIFRET– Netflix Streaming

2) CAFE SOCIETY– At the Theater

3) PAUL WILLIAMS STILL ALIVE- Netflix

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Setting his sights on the magical kingdom of Hollywood, a young man migrates to Los Angeles in the 1930s and is swiftly drawn into the social whirlpool of the young and beautiful — all pursuing their own visions of success.”7/15/16- Mostly good reviews with a few poor ones tossed in– typical for Woody’s films. TRDB.

7/25/16- As usual, I enjoyed yet another of Woody’s films. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW SINCE THE LAST NEWSLETTER- AT HOME-

1) WRONG– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his beloved dog, Paul, goes missing, Dolph Springer scours the town for him. In the process, he affects the lives of an offbeat pet detective, a jogging addict, a sexy pizza delivery girl and others he meets on his mission.”3/29/13- A poor review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews from other critics. TRDB.

7/9/16- Creative but absurd and I’m sorry I watched the whole thing. TRDB. Netflix.

2) DIFRET– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After shooting a man who tried to force her into marriage, a 14-year-old Ethiopian girl is jailed and charged with murder. Now, the only thing standing between her and the death penalty is a zealous young lawyer determined to save her client’s life.”.

10/20/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

7/10/16- A very good docudrama about a young girl from Ethiopia and her attempt, with the help of a dedicated lawyer, to escape prosecution. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) RACE– 2016.  Synopsis by Netflix. “While Hitler saw the 1936 Berlin Olympics as an opportunity to demonstrate Aryan supremacy, one African-American man — Jess Owens — shattered that dream with a display of athleticism that resulted in four gold medals. This film tells his story.”

2/19/16- Fair reviews from critics (even the positives had something negative to say) and OK reviews from audiences. TRDB.

7/27/16- This movie was OK for a historical lesson but as far as I’m concerned the movie was a waste of time. TRDB. Netflix.

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

Good review in the NY Times on 6/8/12 despite a negative reaction to the director who may have taken advantage of the subject more for personal gain. TRDB.

7/28/16- An excellent documentary with great access to the subject. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 2-

1) DIFRET- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After shooting a man who tried to force her into marriage, a 14-year-old Ethiopian girl is jailed and charged with murder. Now, the only thing standing between her and the death penalty is a zealous young lawyer determined to save her client’s life.”.10/20/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

7/10/16- A very good and realistic docudrama about a young girl and her attempt, with the help of a dedicated lawyer, to free herself from prosecution by traditional tribal laws. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED ON FRIDAY, JULY 8-

1) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Having raised his six children in the wooded isolation of the Pacific Northwest, Ben Cash is suddenly drawn back into civilization by a shocking tragedy. As the kids face an unfamiliar world, Ben begins to reexamine his approach to parenting.”7/1/16- Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The trailer looks interesting to me and I like Vigo Mortensen and, of course, Frank Langella. TRDB.

2) INDIAN POINT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Located less than 40 miles from New York City, the Indian Point nuclear power station is the target of outspoken activists who question the aging facility’s safety — particularly in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear plant disaster in 2011.

7/8/16- Reviews are early and few but they are very good. TRDB.

3) MEN GO TO BATTLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set during the Civil War, this historical drama follows brothers Francis and Henry, whose overgrown Kentucky farm has them at loggerheads. After a fight between the two gets out of hand, Henry runs off and joins the Union army.”

7/8/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4) NORMAN LEAR: JUST ANOTHER VERSION OF YOU– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “The man who introduced America to Archie Bunker and George Jefferson — spurring social change through laughter — gets his due in this admiring biopic. From his Connecticut roots to his Hollywood success, Norman Lear’s life is explored in full.”

7/8/16- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) OUR LITTLE SISTER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When three sisters travel to their long-absent father’s rural home to attend his funeral, they meet their now-orphaned half-sister for the first time and offer to take her in, setting the stage for a confrontation with the family’s past.”

7/8/16- Excellent reviews for this Japanese film. TRDB.

6) ZERO DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the United States and Israel developed malware to sabotage a key part of Iran’s nuclear program, the worm was supposed vanish after doing its job. Though the first phase was a success, the second wasn’t, as detailed in this chilling documentary.”

7/8/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) THE DEBT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “American financier Oliver Campbell is set to make a killing on a hedge fund deal with the Peruvian government, but nothing is as simple or as easy as it looks — especially once the human consequences of the proposed deal are revealed.”

7/8/16- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

2) FATHERS & DAUGHTERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unfolding via interwoven narratives, this touching drama follows novelist Jake Davis after he loses his wife in a car crash and becomes a single dad to 5-year-old Katie, who’s still struggling three decades later to overcome her tumultuous childhood.”

7/8/16- Weak reviews. TRDB.

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OPENED FRIDAY, JULY 15-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Setting his sights on the magical kingdom of Hollywood, a young man migrates to Los Angeles in the 1930s and is swiftly drawn into the social whirlpool of the young and beautiful — all pursuing their own visions of success.”7/15/16- Mostly good reviews with a few poor ones tossed in– typical for Woody’s films. I liked it. TRDB.

2) GARNET’S GOLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Twenty years ago, Garnet Frost’s solo hike into the Scottish wilds — with no maps — became a nightmare that nearly killed him. This existential documentary follows Frost’s return to the region to seek buried treasure that he’s convinced is there.”

7/15/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) HOW HE FELL IN LOVE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Still reeling from the death of a close friend, young musician Alex meets an older married woman, Ellen, and sparks immediately fly — despite their age difference and the wall of emotional barriers between them.”

7/15/16- The critics did not like this movie but audiences liked it very much. I’d give it a try. TRDB.

4) PHANTOM BOY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “A mysterious illness has turned Leo into a phantom boy, enabling him to leave his body and explore the city as a ghostly apparition. While in the hospital, he befriends Alex, a New York City cop injured while attempting to capture a nefarious gangster who has taken control of the city’s power supply, throwing the metropolis into chaos. Now they must form an extraordinary duo, using Leo’s phantom powers and Alex’s detective work to foil the plot and save New York from destruction.”

7/15/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike for this animated movie. TRDB.

5) DON’T BLINK: ROBERT FRANK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “One of America’s most respected and revolutionary photographers, Robert Frank is renowned for choosing unlikely subjects. This comprehensive documentary includes Frank’s candid reflections on his background, career and philosophy as a shutterbug.”

7/25/16– Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

6) THE INFILTRATOR– 2016.  Synopsis by Netflix. “The exploits of U.S. Customs agent Robert Mazur are recounted in this narco-crime thriller set in the 1980s. Gaining the trust of some of the world’s most notorious drug lords, Mazur becomes a key player in an intricate government sting.”

7/25/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended-

1) FREE TO RUN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Until the 1960s, the sport of running held little interest for most Americans. But the celebrity of top U.S. runners such as Steve Prefontaine and Kathrine Switzer inspired millions of Americans to lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement.”

7/15/16- Just fair reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) LUCHA MEXICO– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Donning iconic masks and enacting battles that pit good against evil, Mexico’s Lucha Libre wrestlers duke it out weekly to entertain the masses. This fascinating documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at some of the sport’s biggest stars.”

7/15/16- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. TRDB.

3) OUTLAWS AND ANGELS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After leading a bank heist that results in a U.S. marshal’s death, veteran outlaw Henry and his gang head toward Mexico. With a bounty hunter on their trail, they hole up at an isolated home in the borderlands, where unexpected events ensue.”

7/15/16- Critics did not like the movie– audiences were mixed with more liking it than not. TRDB.

4) TONY ROBBINS: I AM NOT YOUR GURU– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Providing an inside look at the high-energy world of self-help guru Tony Robbins, this upbeat documentary captures the charismatic motivational speaker sharing his insights at his massive yearly seminar “Date with Destiny.”

7/25/16- Weak reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED FRIDAY, JULY 22,-

1) THE CHILDHOOD OF A LEADER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After World War I, a U.S. diplomat moves his family to France, where he’s deeply involved in drafting the Treaty of Versailles. But while he’s preoccupied with his work, his neglected 7-year-old son begins to display ominous personality traits.”7/22/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) DON’T THINK TWICE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After years of treading the boards together, improv troupe the Commune has yet to gain much recognition for its satirical skills. When a member of the group lands a plum TV job, the news creates tumult among those left behind.”7/22/15- Excellent reviews from the critics and fairly good ones by audiences. TRDB.

3) DON’T WORRY BABY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “The relationship between Harry Lang and his son, Robert, takes an unexpected turn when they discover that they slept with the same woman years earlier, a few days apart — which means either one could be the father of her 4-year-old daughter.”

7/22/16- Mixed reviews but it does sound interesting. TRDB.

4) HOOLIGAN SPARROW– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Human rights activist Ye Haiyan and the documentary camera crew accompanying her risk government harassment and even incarceration when Ye publicly protests the scandalous case of six elementary schoolgirls raped by their headmaster.”

7/22/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) THE SEVENTH FIRE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Headed for his fifth stay in prison, American Indian gang leader Rob Brown ponders the sad state of his Ojibwe community, beset by drug violence, and realizes he’s partly to blame. Meanwhile, his protégé remains eager to become the next drug kingpin.”

7/22/16- Excellent critical review of this movie– audiences were less impressed. TRDB.

6) SUMMERTIME– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fleeing her rural life and moving to Paris, the gay but unschooled Delphine meets avowed feminist Carole, and they begin a passionate affair. When her father falls ill, Delphine goes home to help her mother, and Carole must decide whether to follow.”

7/22/16- Very good reviews for this French drama. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended–

1) ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Still hanging on grimly to their inebriated lifestyle, Edina and Patsy deliriously demonstrate that their talent for anarchy and outrage hasn’t dimmed since their wildly popular BBC sitcom went off the air.”

7/22/16- Fair reviews at best. TRDB.

2) HILLARY’S AMERICA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Continuing his determined advocacy of conservative Christian values, writer-director Dinesh D’Souza trains a highly critical lens on his favorite target, Hillary Clinton, and the Democrat party’s sometimes checkered past.”

7/22/16- Awful reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON COMCAST SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) ZERO DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the United States and Israel developed malware to sabotage a key part of Iran’s nuclear program, the worm was supposed vanish after doing its job. Though the first phase was a success, the second wasn’t, as detailed in this chilling documentary.”7/8/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) DON’T WORRY BABY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “The relationship between Harry Lang and his son, Robert, takes an unexpected turn when they discover that they slept with the same woman years earlier, a few days apart — which means either one could be the father of her 4-year-old daughter.”

7/22/16- Mixed reviews but it does sound interesting. TRDB.

3) THE CHILDHOOD OF A LEADER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After World War I, a U.S. diplomat moves his family to France, where he’s deeply involved in drafting the Treaty of Versailles. But while he’s preoccupied with his work, his neglected 7-year-old son begins to display ominous personality traits.”

7/22/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) OUR LITTLE SISTER– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When three sisters travel to their long-absent father’s rural home to attend his funeral, they meet their now-orphaned half-sister for the first time and offer to take her in, setting the stage for a confrontation with the family’s past.”7/8/16- Excellent reviews for this Japanese film. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews and I liked it

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100 Garden Cinema Norwalk. Mostly good reviews

3) THE INNOCENTS– Clearview 100. Very good reviews

4) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Great reviews.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) THE MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) CAFE SOCIETY– Pretty good reviews and I liked it

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Very good reviews

3) THE INNOCENTS– Good reviews and what sounds like an interesting story

B) STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) WIENER-DOG– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unfolding through four vignettes, this episodic tale follows a spirited female dachshund as she’s taken in by a series of shifting owners, including a 9-year-old cancer survivor, a despondent film professor and a crotchety shut-in.”6/24/16- Fair reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences so far. It does sound creative and I’ll probably see it eventually. TRDB.

2) ZERO DAYS–  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the United States and Israel developed malware to sabotage a key part of Iran’s nuclear program, the worm was supposed vanish after doing its job. Though the first phase was a success, the second wasn’t, as detailed in this chilling documentary.”7/8/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA-

1) HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE– Great reviews.

2) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– Mostly good reviews

3) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a John le Carré novel, this taut spy thriller follows an English couple’s deadly entanglement with a desperate Russian mobster who solicits their help in negotiating sanctuary with British intelligence authorities.”6/26/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/5/16- A bit preposterous but still OK. Definitely not as good as most critics gave it credit for. TRDB.

4) THE INNOCENTS– Good reviews and what sounds like an interesting story.

5) THE KIND WORDS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “While mourning their mother’s death, Jewish siblings Dorona, Netanel and Shai learn that the man who raised them isn’t their biological dad. The news soon sends them on a quest across France to find their real father — who happens to be a Muslim.”6/24/16- Just a few reviews but they are all excellent. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 7, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

I WILL BE AWAY FOR A WHILE SO THIS NEWSLETTER (#601) WILL CONTAIN INFORMATION FOR 3 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE-

THE NEXT ISSUE WILL PROBABLY BE ON 7/28

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– At the Theater

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a John le Carré novel, this taut spy thriller follows an English couple’s deadly entanglement with a desperate Russian mobster who solicits their help in negotiating sanctuary with British intelligence authorities.”6/26/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/5/16- A bit preposterous but still OK. Definitely not as good as most critics gave it credit for. TRDB.

‘

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) AFERIM!- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this passionate historical drama, 19th-century Romanian policeman Constadin is hired by a local nobleman, Boyar Iordache Cindescu, to track down the Gypsy slave Garfin. The constable soon learns Garfin has been intimate with Iordache’s wife.”1/22/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6/30/16- Boring as hell and I turned it off after my usual 18 (Chai) minutes. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 12-

1) THE DARK HORSE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Genesis Potini is a forgotten man, locked away for years battling bipolar disorder. Finally free and hoping to help others, the imposing Maori hulk and chess genius inspires tens of thousands of troubled youth to embrace the game of kings.”12/6/15- Excellent reviews for this drama that sounds more like a documentary. TRDB.

2)  MOUNTAINS MAY DEPART– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Offering a glimpse of China’s past, present and potential future, this epic drama unwinds in three parts, beginning with a Chinese beauty choosing between two suitors and ending in Australia with her 18-year-old son detached from his roots.”

2/13/16- Good reviews. TRDB.

3) EDDIE THE EAGLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Forever endearing himself to the British public, Eddie “the Eagle” Edwards becomes the first Englishman to compete in the Winter Olympics ski jump, relying on valor to make up for his lack of experience and bad eyesight.”

2/26/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4) MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on real-life events, this intriguing drama recounts the story of young Annabel Beam, who suffers from an incurable digestive disorder. But when a string of miracles leads to her complete recovery, Annabel’s family and doctors are mystified.”

3/16/16- Fairly good reviews for this movie. While listed as a drama it might be considered sci-fi by others. TRDB.

5) MY GOLDEN DAYS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this episodic drama that unfolds in three segments, middle-aged anthropologist Paul Dédalus leaves the field and takes a desk job in Paris, where he muses on his turbulent youth and the love of his life, Esther.”

3/18/16- Very good reviews from critics and fairly good ones from audiences. The NY Times and WSJ both rated it highly. TRDB.

6) BORN TO BE BLUE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This inventive reimagining of jazzman Chet Baker’s life picks up during the late 1960s, when the trumpeter is almost as famous for his addiction as he is for his music. Looking for a career boost, he agrees to take part in a movie about his life.”

3/25/16- Very good reviews by critics and audiences. TRDB.

4/22/16- A good drama about Baker, his talent and his failings. TRDB.

7) SWORN VIRGIN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fleeing her Albanian village to escape the prospect of wifely servitude, Hana assumes a new identity as a man. She spends the next decade living in the mountains, until a visit to her sister in Italy leads Hana to question the path she’s taken.”

 4/22/16- I saw this movie and thought it was interesting as I knew nothing about this group of people from Albania. TRDB.

8) EVERYBODY WANTS SOME– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in the 1980s, this campus comedy chronicles the triumphs and humiliations of a group of freshman friends intent on making the school’s baseball team — while exploring a brave new world of adult temptations off the field.”

4/13/15- Very good reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

9) THE ARMOR OF LIGHT- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking a hard look at the ongoing epidemic of gun violence in America, this thoughtful documentary follows Rev. Rob Schenck, a conservative activist crusading to end the damage inflicted by his countrymen’s long love affair with firearms.”

6/30/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and mixed reviews by audiences. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFIX ON JULY 19-

1) MIDNIGHT SPECIAL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After discovering that his young son possesses extraordinary powers, a father must try to safeguard the boy not only from the intensive pursuit of government authorities but also a band of religious fanatics.”

3/18/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) ELVIS & NIXON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Among the many strange episodes that took place in Richard Nixon’s presidential administration, one of the most bizarre was Elvis Presley’s surprise visit to the White House, followed by a secret meeting with the nation’s commander-in-chief.”

4/19/16- Fairly good reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

5/1/16- A light fluff comedy with some poignant moments as well and I did enjoy it. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON JULY 26-

1) HARMONTOWN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix.”Recording the wild cross-country jaunt of TV writer and producer Dan Harmon as he and his crew take his podcast to the people, this candid documentary insightfully illuminates his private and public lives.”

10/10/14- Very good reviews in general. Audiences have loved it. The NY Times did not. TRDB.

2) THE RUSSIAN WOODPECKER– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Affected as a boy by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Ukrainian artist Fedor Alexandrovich travels to the Exclusion Zone to pursue his suspicions about the meltdown’s link to the Duga, a huge Soviet radio antenna located near the Chernobyl site.”

10/16/15- Excellent reviews by critics and good ones by audiences. TRDB.

3) THE INVITATION– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Will’s ex-wife, Eden, invites him to a dinner party at the home they once shared, he assumes she wants to put unresolved tensions to rest. But soon, Will senses that Eden and her new spouse have something sinister in mind.”

4/8/16- Excellent reviews all around for this mystery. TRDB.

4) SING STREET– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Grappling with a difficult home life, 14-year-old Conor faces more woes when financial problems force his parents to transfer him from a private school to an inner-city public school. Looking for an escape, he forms a band with a group of classmates.”

4/15/16- Great reviews from all! TRDB.

5/22/16– I liked this movie very much. Poignant screenplay, wonderful acting and great music. What else can I say? TRDB.

5) THE WAIT (L’ATTESA)- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As single mother Anna mourns her son’s death, Jeanne, a stranger claiming to be his lover arrives for a visit — unaware of his demise. Withholding the unspeakable truth for as long as possible, Anna begins to grow close to Jeanne.”

4/29/16- Weak professional reviews and somewhat better audience ones. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, JULY 1-

1) THE INNOCENTS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of World War II, French physician Mathilde Beaulieu travels to Warsaw to care for survivors and is taken to a convent where numerous nuns were raped by Russian soldiers. With her help, the women begin to regain their faith in God’s mercy.”7/1/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) MICROBE AND GASOLINE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Determined to break away from their oppressive home lives, teen misfits Microbe and Gasoline construct a miniature motor home with a top speed of 10 mph and set off on a whimsical journey across France, looking for adventure and girls.”

7/1/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) CAPTAIN FANTASTIC– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Having raised his six children in the wooded isolation of the Pacific Northwest, Ben Cash is suddenly drawn back into civilization by a shocking tragedy. As the kids face an unfamiliar world, Ben begins to reexamine his approach to parenting.”

7/1/16- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. However, the trailer looks interesting to me and I like Vigo Mortensen and, of course, Frank Langella. TRDB.

4) LIFE, ANIMATED– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When once-chatty Owen Suskind stops speaking at age 3, the only stimuli he responds to are Disney films. Four years later, his dad breaks Owen’s silence by talking to him as a character from one of those movies — which suddenly opens up his world.”

7/1/16- Uniformly very good reviews for this documentary with the notable exception of the NY Times. TRDB.

5) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a John le Carré novel, this taut spy thriller follows an English couple’s deadly entanglement with a desperate Russian mobster who solicits their help in negotiating sanctuary with British intelligence authorities.”

6/26/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/5/16- A bit preposterous but still OK. Definitely not as good as most critics gave it credit for. TRDB.

6) UNDER THE SUN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intriguing documentary centers on 8-year-old Zin-mi, who’s about to join North Korea’s Children’s Union on the “Day of the Shining Star”: Kim Jong Il’s birthday. As the film crew follows Zin-mi and her parents, state watchdogs are ever present.”

7/7/16- Very good reviews from the critics and just so-so ones from audiences. One reviewer called it the deconstruction of a documentary because of the continued meddling of the North Korean authorities. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) THE LEGEND OF TARZAN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fully readapted to London society after his long sojourn in the jungle, Lord Greystoke returns to Africa as a trade emissary. But little does he know that he’s being used to advance the schemes of villainous Capt. Leon Rom.”

7/1//16- Poor reviews for this movie. TRDB.

2) THE BFG– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Roald Dahl’s spooky children’s book is transformed into a family-friendly fantasy centering on young orphan Sophie, who meets a colossus called the Big Friendly Giant — who’s exiled from his peers for refusing to eat boys and girls.”

7/1/16- Fair reviews from most critics. TRDB.

3) CARNAGE PARK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bad luck continues to dog two dimwitted bank robbers after their planned heist goes awry. With a hostage in tow, they manage to elude police but stumble into even worse circumstances when they intrude on the domain of a deranged ex-military sniper.”

7/1/16- Decent reviews but I hate this type of movie- a mixture of suspense and horror and I’ll miss it. It’s on Comcast On-Demand. TRDB.

4) ROSEANNE FOR PRESIDENT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “An American icon by way of her wildly popular sitcom and stormy private life, Roseanne Barr elected to run for president in 2012 as a third-party candidate — a quixotic crusade recounted in this candid documentary.”

7/1/16- Very few reviews and they are mixed. I would nix it for now. It’s on Comcast On-Demand. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON-DEMAND- NONE RECOMMENDED

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) HUNT FOR WILDERPEOPLE- Jacob Burns, Bethel. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young misfit Ricky Baker has grown comfortable with his foster parents, Aunt Bella and Uncle Hec. But when Bella’s death threatens to send Ricky back to child services, the irascible Hec heads for the bush with Ricky, setting off a national manhunt.”6/24/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) THE INNOCENTS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of World War II, French physician Mathilde Beaulieu travels to Warsaw to care for survivors and is taken to a convent where numerous nuns were raped by Russian soldiers. With her help, the women begin to regain their faith in God’s mercy.”

6/30/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) SWISS ARMY MAN– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Stranded alone on a deserted island, forlorn Hank has lost any hope of getting back to civilization. But as he’s about to end his life, a gaseous corpse washes ashore — giving Hank an idea that may just take him home.”

6/24/16- Fair reviews at best. The NY Times found it incredibly creative. I like Paul Dano and I will see this movie eventually.

4) LIFE, ANIMATED– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When once-chatty Owen Suskind stops speaking at age 3, the only stimuli he responds to are Disney films. Four years later, his dad breaks Owen’s silence by talking to him as a character from one of those movies — which suddenly opens up his world.”

7/1/16- Uniformly very good reviews for this documentary with the notable exception of the NY Times. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Just so-so in my book

2) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good reviews but I’m skipping this one

3) GENIUS– Bethel, Clearview 100. Poor reviews.

4) WEINER-DOG– Clearview 100. Fair reviews by the critics. Audiences have not liked it

5) MAGGIE’S PLAN– Clearview 100I liked this one very much

6) WEINER– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Painful to watch but well worth it

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

I recommend only 1 movie at this theater and that’s unusual

1) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– Just so-so in my book

B) STONZEK THEATER AT THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

July 8–July 14

1) ART BASTARD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engrossing documentary profiles the career of artistic rebel Robert Cenedella, whose vivid urban portraits reflect his determination to go his own way during an era dominated by pop art, minimalism and money.”6/3/16- Not many reviews as yet but the ones available are fairly good. TRDB.

2) THE MUSIC OF STRANGERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Founded by famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Silk Road Ensemble includes more than 50 musicians, composers and other artists. Touring the globe, the group collaborates with local performers in a quest to broaden the world’s musical horizons.”6/10/16- Very good reviews from critics and fair ones from audiences for this documentary. TRDB.

July 15–July 21-

1) DE PALMA- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing look at Hollywood director Brian De Palma’s adventurous and turbulent career, the iconoclastic auteur discusses each of his films, the creative ambition behind them and his spotty reputation in the movie industry.”

6/10/16- Great reviews for this documentary! TRDB.

2) RIGHT NOW, WRONG THEN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Beginning with a chance meeting between film director Ham Cheon-soo and young painter Yoon Hee-jeong, this insightful drama plays out two versions of their romantic encounter, each with a very different conclusion.”

6/24/16– Very good early reviews from critics with one actually calling this movie the best one so far in 2016. Audiences haven’t been as enthusiastic. TRDB.

July 22– July 28-

1) HUNT FOR WILDERPEOPLE- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young misfit Ricky Baker has grown comfortable with his foster parents, Aunt Bella and Uncle Hec. But when Bella’s death threatens to send Ricky back to child services, the irascible Hec heads for the bush with Ricky, setting off a national manhunt.”

6/24/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2)  GURUKULAM- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This meditative documentary travels to a remote ashram in southern India, where the sage Swami Dayananda Saraswati tutors a diverse group of acolytes on the connection between the spiritual and material worlds, and the process of self-discovery.”

6/3/16- Very few reviews and they are evenly divided. TRDB.

 

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS-

1) MY LOVE, DON’T CROSS THAT RIVER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affecting documentary about human love and mortality, an ailing 98-year-old man and his 89-year-old wife reluctantly recognize that their time together is drawing to a close after 76 years of marriage.”

6/17/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

2) MAGGIE’S PLAN- I liked this one very much

3) OUR KIND OF TRAITOR– Just OK– over rated by the critics

4) WEINER-DOG– Fair reviews by the critics and poor ones by audiences

5) OUR LAST TANGO– Great reviews by the critics– just fair ones from audiences. (limited screenings)

6) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY- OK reviews. (limited screenings)

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 23, 2016

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 TREASURE– Netflix Streaming

2) THE GOLDEN DREAM– Netflix

3) NORMAN– Netflix

4) THE DINNER– Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE TREASURE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Family man Costi finds his life turned upside down after a neighbor convinces him that there’s treasure buried in his dead grandfather’s garden. But when Costi agrees to help dig up the cache, bureaucratic entanglements and other complications ensue.”1/8/16- Very good reviews from critics but not so good from audiences. TRDB.

6/16/16- Interesting if a bit slow with an unusual ending. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) THE GOLDEN DREAM– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Guatemalan teenager Juan decides to hop a train to make the long journey to the U.S. border, which he hopes to cross to find work. Along the way, he and his companions, Sara and Samuel, must navigate through a world filled with danger.”

9/4/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6/17/16- A very good drama capturing the physical and psychological trauma that these immigrants have to deal with. TRDB. Netflix.

3) ALREADY TOMORROW IN HONG KONG– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a chance urban encounter, U.S. expatriate Josh and Chinese-American Ruby, on her first visit to Hong Kong, soon find their way into each other’s hearts as they wander together through the city’s exotic and mysterious neighborhoods.”

2/12/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6/19/16- A very weak screenplay but a fine travelogue of Hong Kong kept me with this one. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) NORMAN– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Norman Long is a high school loner, a self-aware and darkly funny teen who’s just trying to handle his daily existence. In the wake of his mother’s sudden death, Norman must now also deal with the reality that his father is starting to lose his battle with stomach cancer. A few just OK reviews. TRDB.

10/21/11- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/20/16- An OK coming of age story with only fair reviews but with an interesting central character that made the movie. TRDB. Netflix.

5) THE DINNER– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two reputation-conscious couples’ nightmares become reality when closed-circuit camera footage shows their teenage children brutally attacking a homeless woman. When the video goes viral, the couples must choose their moral course.”

6/22/16- I liked this Italian drama very much. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 28-

1) AFERIM!- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this passionate historical drama, 19th-century Romanian policeman Constadin is hired by a local nobleman, Boyar Iordache Cindescu, to track down the Gypsy slave Garfin. The constable soon learns Garfin has been intimate with Iordache’s wife.”1/22/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) RAMS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite the fact that they live next door to each other, brothers and fellow sheep farmers Gummi and Kiddi have gone 40 years without speaking to each other. When a deadly virus attacks both their herds, the brothers are forced to communicate again.”

3/1/16- Very good reviews for this foreign drama. TRDB.

3/7/16- I can’t rave as much as the critics have but I did enjoy the movie. TRDB.

3) WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on reporter Kim Barker’s memoirs about her experiences covering the Afghanistan war, this satirical look at a hopelessly confused conflict also chronicles the obstacles encountered by female journalists in a rigidly conservative region.”

3/4/16- Just fair reviews. TRDB.

4) RACE– 2016.  Synopsis by Netflix. “While Hitler saw the 1936 Berlin Olympics as an opportunity to demonstrate Aryan supremacy, one African-American man — Jess Owens — shattered that dream with a display of athleticism that resulted in four gold medals. This film tells his story.”

2/19/16- Fair reviews from critics (even the positives had something negative to say) and OK reviews from audiences. My friends who have seen it have liked it. TRDB.

5) FRANCOFONIA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Spotlighting the legacy and priceless art collection of the Louvre Museum, this vivid docudrama recounts many dramatic moments in the institution’s history, including the hasty caching of its treasures when German forces occupied Paris in 1940.”

3/31/16- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

6) CEMETERY OF SPLENDOR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In Northeast Thailand, soldiers with a mysterious sleeping sickness lie bedridden in a school turned clinic, where doctors and volunteers tend to them. When a volunteer nurse forms a bond with a patient, she begins to experience odd hallucinations.

6/15/16- Not my kind of movie but this film received excellent reviews so I’d give it a try. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) RABIN, THE LAST DAY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Twenty years after the killing of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, filmmaker Amos Gitai revisits the incident with this riveting docudrama that examines not only the shooting but the cultural conditions that allowed the tragedy to take place.”1/29/16- Unfortunately, there were poor reviews for this movie. TRDB.

2) EYE IN THE SKY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Leading an operation to nab a terrorist and her collaborators in Kenya, Col. Katherine Powell ends up in a political and moral quagmire as the mission changes and a drone strike is ordered, putting a young girl at risk of becoming collateral damage.”

3/11/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4/7/16- Long and drawn out and with little to add after seeing the trailers, this movie should have been a short instead of a full length movie. TRDB. 

3) FASTBALL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Kevin Costner narrates as a gallery of baseball greats — including Hank Aaron, Nolan Ryan and Derek Jeter — explain the mythos and mechanics of the fastball: what it’s like to throw one and what it’s like to face one at the plate.”

3/25/16- Very good reviews from critics and great ones from audiences for this documentary. TRDB.

4/25/16- Excellent reviews as noted and I did like this documentary. My only complaint was that it was too long and began getting a bit boring. One critic said it should have been a one hour made for TV show. TRDB.

4) ELSTREE 1976- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Though working on the production of “Star Wars” in 1976 brought only fleeting fame for the masked bit-part actors and extras, it became a life-changing experience for them, as chronicled in this engaging documentary.”5/6/16- Critics liked this movie but audiences have not. I’ll miss it. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY, JUNE 17-

1) ARGENTINA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This effusive musical documentary invites viewers to experience the rich contours of traditional Argentinean music, which is combined with dance movements to portray both regional tales and passionate love stories.”6/17/16- Fair to good reviews. I’ll definitely plan to see it. TRDB.

2) COSMOS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Looking for a few days of rest and relaxation, a would-be writer and a fashion maven arrive at a family-run rural guesthouse, only to find themselves obsessed with unraveling a macabre mystery involving a hanged sparrow.”

6/17/16- Some weird reviews but most professional critics liked it. Audiences not so much. TRDB.

3) LAND AND SHADE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Returning home after a long absence to care for his ailing son, an elderly farmer finds the landscape ravaged by toxic smoke as the sugarcane fields are burned during the harvest. But despite the life-threatening situation, his wife refuses to leave.”

6/17/16- Very good reviews from all. TRDB.

4) MY LOVE, DON’T CROSS THAT RIVER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affecting documentary about human love and mortality, an ailing 98-year-old man and his 89-year-old wife reluctantly recognize that their time together is drawing to a close after 76 years of marriage.”

6/17/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

5) PARCHED– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Amid the male-dominated environment of a rural Indian village, four women — who long to be free from lives of servitude and abuse — begin to challenge the patriarchal status quo that’s keeping them subjugated.”

6/17/16– Very good reviews for this Indian drama. TRDB.

6) RAIDERS! THE STORY OF THE GREATEST FAN FILM EVER MADE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Three Mississippi boys share a unique obsession: They want to film their own version of their favorite film, “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” This affable documentary chronicles the 30 years it took the friends to finally realize their cinematic goal.”

6/17/16- Excellent reviews from most critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

7) SEOUL SEARCHING– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1986, this engaging teen comedy follows a boisterous group of high schoolers of Korean descent who travel to a summer camp in Seoul to learn about their motherland and cultural heritage — and to hook up with one another.”

6/17/16- Very good reviews from all sources. TRDB.

8) TICKLED– 2016. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “After stumbling upon a bizarre “competitive endurance tickling” video online, wherein young men are paid to be tied up and tickled, reporter David Farrier reaches out to request a story from the company.”

6/17/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary by the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

 

Not Recommended–

1) CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a career accountant reconnects with a former classmate who now works as a CIA operative, the mild-mannered number-cruncher soon finds himself waist deep in a lethal counterespionage operation.”

6/17/16- Reading the reviews, this one sounds pretty stupid. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON DEMAND- NONE RECOMMENDED

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) MUSIC OF STRANGERS– Bethel. 2016. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Founded by famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Silk Road Ensemble includes more than 50 musicians, composers and other artists. Touring the globe, the group collaborates with local performers in a quest to broaden the world’s musical horizons.”6/10/16- Very good reviews from critics and fair ones from audiences for this documentary. TRDB.

2) PRESENTING PRINCESS SHAW– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “With the Internet awash in millions of videos by musicians seeking notice, few such artists have much success. But singer-songwriter Samantha Montgomery becomes an exception after drawing the attention of Ophir Kutiel, a master mixer of viral videos.”5/27/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) TICKLED– Jacob Burns. 2016.  2016. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “After stumbling upon a bizarre “competitive endurance tickling” video online, wherein young men are paid to be tied up and tickled, reporter David Farrier reaches out to request a story from the company.”6/17/16- Excellent reviews for this documentary by the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB.

5) MY LOVE, DON’T CROSS THAT RIVER– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affecting documentary about human love and mortality, an ailing 98-year-old man and his 89-year-old wife reluctantly recognize that their time together is drawing to a close after 76 years of marriage.”6/17/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

6) THE FITS– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Captivated by a dance drill team known as the Lionesses and yearning for social acceptance, insecure tomboy Toni tries out for the squad and lands a spot. But just as she starts to gain confidence, inexplicable episodes of fainting plague the group.”6/3/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS

1) MAGGIE’S PLAN– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this movie very much

2) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Good reviews but I’ll skip this one

3) GENIUS- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very poor reviews from critics and audiences alike

4) DE PALMA– Bethel. Great reviews for this documentary

5) WEINER– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Painful to watch but an excellent documentary with unusual access

6) THE LOBSTER– Garden Cinema Norwalk. I did not like this movie at all

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) FREE STATE OF JONES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the Civil War rages on, Mississippi farmer Newton Knight, his neighbors and a ragtag group of slaves band together and lead Jones County to secede from the Confederacy, establishing a mixed-race free state in the heart of the South.”6/21/16- Terrible reviews, most critics calling a boring history lesson. TRDB.

2) GENIUS- Weak reviews

3) WEDDING DOLL– Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

4) MAGGIE’S PLAN– I liked this one very much

B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) THE TRIALS OF MUHAMMAD ALI- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exploring issues of race, religion and wartime conscientious objection, this documentary gives viewers an inside look at Muhammad Ali’s biggest battle: his struggle to overturn a five-year prison sentence after refusing to fight in Vietnam.”8/23/13- Good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. Audiences have liked this film very much. TRDB.

2) APRIL AND THE EXTRAORDINARY WORLD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Steam power is still the main engine of civilization in this fantasy that imagines a 1941 in which progress has been slowed by the steady disappearance of the world’s scientists. The daughter of two such top minds sets off to find them.”6/21/16- Excellent reviews for this animated film. TRDB.

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) OUR LAST TANGO–  2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Maria Nieves Rego and Juan Carlos Copes fell in love as teenagers, neither imagined that it would mark the beginning of a stormy 50-year relationship during which they would become the world’s most celebrated tango dancers.”4/15/16- Great reviews by the critics– just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) WEDDING DOLL– Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

3) MAGGIE’S PLAN– I liked this one very much

4) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY– Fair to good reviews

5) WEINER- Painful to watch but a very good documentary with unusual access

6) DHEEPAN– Very good reviews (limited screenings)

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 16, 2016

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) A WAR– Netflix

2) UNCLE JOHN– Netflix Streaming

3) 4th. MAN OUT– Netflix Streaming

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

NONE, AS THERE HAS BEEN VERY LITTLE TURNOVER LATELY

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) UNCLE JOHN– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taking a spur-of-the-moment trip to his small hometown with his pretty new boss, graphic designer Ben arrives to learn that the recent disappearance of a local man has created a cloud of suspicion around Ben’s beloved Uncle John.”9/18/15- Good critical review and excellent audience reaction. TRDB.

6/15/16- I liked this movie very much, especially the lead actor who said everything with his acting and spoke minimally. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) A WAR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his family back at home in Denmark, Claus Pedersen has another family to look after: the soldiers under his command in the Afghan province of Helmand. When his troops get caught in crossfire, he makes a decision with far-reaching consequences.”2/13/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6/10/16- Very well done movie with great acting. This film examines the complexity of war and personal morality in an unusual and penetrating way. Excellent and highly recommended. TRDB. Netflix.

3) 4TH MAN OUT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When small-town auto mechanic Adam announces to his best buddies that he’s gay, they’re stunned and bewildered at first. But after the shock wears off, they learn everything they can about being gay and set out to help Adam find a beau.”

2/4/16- Early reviews only and they are just OK. TRDB.

6/15/16- Cute movie about friends and how they deal with a good friend “coming out.” A bit too “frat-boy” acting for me but fun never-the-less. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 21-

1) GOING AWAY– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “When young Mathias’s father fails to pick him up from school, substitute teacher Baptiste takes the boy on a weekend motorcycle journey. While teacher and pupil quickly form a bond, things grow more complicated when they happen upon Mathias’s mother.”10/2/15- I’ve seen just 2 reviews. The NY Times liked it and the other did not but I generally will see almost any road trip movie and that includes motorcycles. TRDB.

2) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Through parallel story threads set 40 years apart, this absorbing odyssey follows two Western scientists who travel deep into the Amazon jungle looking for a rare plant that possesses healing powers, with enigmatic shaman Karamakate as their guide.”2/23/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) KING GEORGES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engaging documentary focuses on Georges Perrier, owner of Philadelphia’s Le Bec-Fin, one of the nation’s best French restaurants. As he ponders retiring from the frenetic world of the kitchen, Perrier frets over the eatery’s future.”2/26/16- Critics said that this film is great but audiences have not liked it. I’ll try to see it. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) ANESTHESIA– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “After opening with the savage mugging of a Columbia University philosophy professor, this nonlinear drama flashes back to events leading up to the incident, following the lives of numerous people connected to the assault.”1/8/16- Poor professional reviews especially related to the nonlinear nature of the film. Audiences have liked it more. I think I’ll skip it for now. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY-

1) CALL HER APPLEBROOG– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intimate documentary profile of celebrated New York City painter Ida Applebroog fully captures her uncompromising style as she looks back at her life as a pioneering and controversial feminist artist.”6/10/16- I’ve seen just 2 professional reviews for this documentary and they are both good. TRDB.

2) DE PALMA- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing look at Hollywood director Brian De Palma’s adventurous and turbulent career, the iconoclastic auteur discusses each of his films, the creative ambition behind them and his spotty reputation in the movie industry.”

6/10/16- Great reviews for this documentary! TRDB.

3) GERMANS & JEWS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engrossing documentary looks at Berlin’s rapidly growing Jewish population and the expanding dialogue between Jews and Germans, which is helping to heal the lasting emotional scars of the Holocaust on both sides.”

6/10/16- Just 4 professional reviews but they are all very good. TRDB.

4) KING JACK– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Saddled with looking after his young cousin Ben for the weekend, scrappy 15-year-old Jack is amazed to find that the two get along famously — until his mettle and priorities are tested when they run afoul of a merciless bully and his cohorts.”

6/10/16- Excellent reviews from the critics and very good ones from audiences. TRDB.

5) LAST CAB TO DARWIN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Seventy-year-old taxi driver Rex has been content to live his entire life in his dusty hometown. But when he’s diagnosed with terminal cancer, the news prompts Rex hit the road on an epic journey, determined to end his days on his terms.”

6/10/16- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

6) LEN AND COMPANY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Burned out by the industry that’s made him a millionaire, successful music producer Len Black chucks it all to lead a life of rustic exile in upstate New York — until his estranged son arrives, followed by a badgered pop star. So much for exile.”

6/10/16- Fair to good reviews by the critics but less so by audiences. TRDB.

7) THE MUSIC OF STRANGERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Founded by famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Silk Road Ensemble includes more than 50 musicians, composers and other artists. Touring the globe, the group collaborates with local performers in a quest to broaden the world’s musical horizons.”

6/10/16- Very good reviews from critics and fair ones from audiences for this documentary. TRDB.

8) TIKKUN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “An ultra-Orthodox Jew, Haim-Aaron adheres so rigidly to his faith that when impure thoughts beset him, he collapses and suffers a seemingly fatal head injury. After being revived, he finds his mind full of spiritual doubts — and his hormones raging.”

6/10/16- Great reviews. TRDB.

1) BE SOMEBODY– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Weary of stardom, pop icon Jordan Jaye leaves his tour and looks for anonymity in a small town, where he meets young artist Emily Lowe. Though she wants little to do with Jordan, the two soon find that they have more in common than they imagined.”6/10/16- Described by the NY Times as innocuous and with poor audience reviews I’ll definitely skip this movie. TRDB.

2) DIARY OF A CHAMBERMAID– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the early years of the 20th century, ambitious young Célestine works as a chambermaid in the Lanlaire household, where she’s subjected to the dictatorial Madame Lanlaire’s capricious demands and the amorous advances of her spineless spouse.”

6/10/16– Mixed reviews by critics and awful ones from audiences. Even the positive reviews had reservations. TRDB.

3) GENIUS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Featuring a stellar cast, this absorbing biopic focuses on the long and complicated relationship between Max Perkins, famed literary editor at Scribner’s publishing house, and acclaimed writer Thomas Wolfe.”

6/10/16- Very poor reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW ON-DEMAND-

1) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Through parallel story threads set 40 years apart, this absorbing odyssey follows two Western scientists who travel deep into the Amazon jungle looking for a rare plant that possesses healing powers, with enigmatic shaman Karamakate as their guide.”2/23/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS–

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) GENIUS– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Featuring a stellar cast, this absorbing biopic focuses on the long and complicated relationship between Max Perkins, famed literary editor at Scribner’s publishing house, and acclaimed writer Thomas Wolfe.”6/10/16- Very poor reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

2) DE PALMA– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absorbing look at Hollywood director Brian De Palma’s adventurous and turbulent career, the iconoclastic auteur discusses each of his films, the creative ambition behind them and his spotty reputation in the movie industry.”

6/10/16- Great reviews for this documentary! TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) MAGGIE’S PLAN– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked it a lot

2) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Great reviews but I’ll skip it

3) WEINER– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Painful to watch but it is an excellent documentary with great access to the subject

4) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY– Jacob Burns. Fair to good reviews

5) THE LOBSTER– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I did not like this at all

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) WEDDING DOLL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mildly mentally challenged, Hagit works at a toilet-paper factory by day and crafts wedding dolls with the leftover materials by night. Longing for romance, she finds it with the plant owner’s son — to the dismay of her fiercely protective mother.”4/15/16- Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

2) AUF DAS LEBEN (TO LIFE!)- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After getting evicted from her home, an aging cabaret singer is ready to take her life when she meets a young man who reminds her of a former lover. The odd pair forms a deep connection when he reveals that he’s suffering from a severe illness.”

6/16/16- Very good reviews by audiences but I could not find any professional reviews. TRDB.

3) MAGGIE’S PLAN– I liked this very much

4) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– I’ll skip this one

B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) WEINER- An excellent documentary with unusual access to the subject

2) THE LOBSTER– I did not like this at all

C) LIVING ROOM THEATERS AT FAU IN BOCA RAATON

1) WEDDING DOLL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mildly mentally challenged, Hagit works at a toilet-paper factory by day and crafts wedding dolls with the leftover materials by night. Longing for romance, she finds it with the plant owner’s son — to the dismay of her fiercely protective mother.”4/15/16- Very good reviews from the critics and excellent ones from audiences for this Israeli film. TRDB.

2) MAGGIE’S PLAN– I liked this movie very much

3) THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY– Fair to good reviews

4) WEINER– An excellent documentary

5) LOVE & FRIENDSHIP– Good reviews but I’ll skip this one (limited screenings)

6) DHEEPAN– Very good reviews (limited screenings)

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

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