The Reel Dr. Bob

FILM REVIEWS #585

MARCH 17, 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) COLLIDING DREAMS– At the Theater

2) 10,000 km- Netflix

3) POVERTY, INC.- To be shown at the Lake Worth Film Festival

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) 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. 

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) 10,000 km– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Deeply in love and planning to have a baby, Barcelona residents Alex and Sergi must alter those plans when Alex is offered a one-year artist residency in America. But the couple vows to stay close via digital technology.”

7/10/15- Good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

3/14/16- An interesting premise and good acting made this movie enjoyable. A bit slow in the middle.  TRDB.

2) POVERTY, INC.- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Challenging the record of global poverty-assistance programs in genuinely relieving deprivation in many areas around the world, this thought-provoking documentary also questions the overall structure of what is a multibillion-dollar industry.”

3/15/16- Very few professional reviews but most are good. I found the movie interesting but, sad to say, I think I’m getting a little tired of this important topic, especially in documentaries. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 22-

Recommended-

1) THE PEARL BUTTON– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blending incisive interviews, lyrical cinematography and philosophical reflection, this compelling documentary looks at Chile’s recent history, connecting the nation’s violent past and its complicated relationship with the sea.”

11/19/15- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) SPOTLIGHT– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Revealing a string of cover-ups stretching back decades, a team of “Boston Globe” reporters exposes the Catholic Archdiocese’s history of keeping reports about child molestation and other priest-initiated abuse under wraps.”

10/28/15- Great reviews for this drama. TRDB.

11/13/15- The great reviews were well deserved. A very good drama and very realistic as well. TRDB.

3) THE SECRET IN THEIR EYES– Premise by Netflix. “A startling discovery comes to light for retired Argentine criminal investigator Benjamín Espósito (Ricardo Darín) as he pens a biographical novel about the unsolved case of a young newlywed’s brutal rape and murder years ago. Past and present intertwine for Espósito and colleague Irene Menéndez Hastings (Soledad Villamil) in director Juan José Campanella’s Oscar-winning character study in which justice, pain and love collide.”

8/10- Interesting and well acted but I felt that the plot was full of holes. The back and forths were well done and not confusing as usual. TRDB.

4) JAMES WHITE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his mother’s terminal illness forces party-loving James White to drastically refocus his life, the transformation doesn’t come easily. As time passes, however, the bond between mother and son grows ever stronger.”

11/11/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) NOMA: MY PERFECT STORM– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this gastronomic documentary, Chef René Redzepi — the father of modern Nordic cuisine — seeks to redeem himself by reclaiming the title Best Restaurant in the World for his Noma eatery, an honor it had retained for three years running.’

3/12/16- Poor reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, MARCH 11-

Recommended-

1) BOOM BUST BOOM– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using humor, puppets and interviews with leading economists, this eye-opening documentary examines the causes of the 2008 financial crisis, concluding that mainstream economic theories ignore a central truth about human behavior.”

3/12./16- Excellent reviews for this documentary. 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) 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) HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by insights gained through a self-help seminar, 60-year-old Doris Miller brazenly steps forward to pursue the affections of a much younger co-worker — and inadvertently becomes a hit with his hipster cohorts.”

3/11/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) MARGUERITE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “French socialite Marguerite Dumont has one great passion in life: singing opera. Unfortunately, she’s exceedingly bad at it. But with no one brave enough to tell her, she throws her heart and soul into preparing for her first solo recital.”

3/11/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

6) REMEMBER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As lifelong friends Zev and Max move into their last years, they make a solemn pact to hunt down and take revenge on the Nazi commander who was responsible for slaughtering their families during World War II.”

3/11/16– Fairly good reviews especially by audiences. TRDB.

7) FIREWORKS WEDNESDAY– Premise by Netflix. “As fireworks light the sky on the eve of the Persian New Year, a young Iranian maid named Rouhi begins a new job working for a middle-class couple whose marriage is on the verge of implosion. The tension mounts when Rouhi’s employer decides to use her as a spy to determine whether her husband is being unfaithful. Asghar Farhadi directs this Farsi-language drama that offers a rare glimpse of private life in modern-day Iran.”

I saw and reviewed this film 6 years ago and here’s what I said at that time:

3/10- Another interesting slice of life from Iran and I liked it. TRDB.

8) 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 considered a drama it might be considered sci-fi by others. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) ABOUT SCOUT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Scout’s estranged father abducts her sister, Lulu, the teenage rebel boosts a car and sets off across Texas to track down her sibling, aided by a mentally unstable young man named Sam.”

3/12/16- Just 2 reviews so far– one poor and the other mixed. I think I can safely skip this one. TRDB.

2) THE BROTHERS GRIMSBY– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “A suave secret agent accepts a mission that requires him to go on the run with his brainless soccer hooligan of a brother in this uproarious and spectacularly vulgar.”

3/11/16- Poor reviews. TRDB.

3) CREATIVE CONTROL– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blurring the line between reality and fantasy, a young ad executive begins to lose touch when he uses a client’s new Augmenta eyeglasses to create — and have a virtual affair with — a sexy avatar who looks like his best buddy’s girlfriend.”

3/11/16- Fair reviews by the critics although audiences have liked it more. I think I’ll skip it. TRDB.

4) HYENA ROAD– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As Canadian Ryan Sanders and his team of snipers are protecting a strategic route into Taliban territory, guerillas ambush them. When the enemy is forced to retreat, Ryan’s crew returns to home base, where he’s drafted for a tricky covert operation.”

3/11/16- Weak professional reviews and OK audience ones. TRDB.

5) LOLO– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ultra-chic Parisian Violette is on holiday with her best friend when she falls for geeky Jean-René, who’s unlike any man she’s met before. When the pair return to Paris together, however, Violette’s 20-year-old son plots to undermine their romance.”

3/11/16- Really poor reviews which is a shame as I love Julie Delpy who both directs and acts in this movie. TRDB.

6) ME HIM HER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Handsome TV star Brendan has a secret, one he’s kept even from himself for many years: He’s gay. To help him take his first baby steps out of the closet, he calls upon his longtime pal Cory — who has his own romantic problems.”

3/11/16- Poor reviews. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

1) 4^th. MAN OUT- Good reviews

2) 99 HOMES- I liked it

3) ALL MISTAKES BURIED- Back On-Demand. Good reviews

4) THE BIG SHORT- Very good review and I liked it very much

5) BRIDGE OF SPIES- I liked this movie very much (new last week)

6) BROOKLYN – I liked it a lot

7) CAROL- I liked it very much

8)CLOSED SEASON- A very good movie and I liked it very much

9) CREED- The recent one with Sly Stallone- good reviews

10) THE DANISH GIRL- A very good movie

11) DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL- Very good reviews and I liked it a lot

12) THE END OF THE TOUR- Great movie!!

13) GRANDMA- I liked it a lot– not really a comedy despite Lily Tomlin

14) INFINITELY POLAR BEAR- I enjoyed this movie

15) LABYRINTH OF LIES- A very good movie

16) LAMB- Good reviews

17) THE LAST MAN ON THE MOON- Good reviews

18)MAN-UP- Good reviews and I enjoyed it as well

19) THE MARTIAN- Excellent reviews and many awards- I didn’t care for it

20) MISTRESS AMERICA- I enjoyed this movie

21) MR. HOLMES- I enjoyed it but was a bit disappointed

22) THE NEW GIRLFRIEND- I enjoyed it

23) PAWN SACRIFICE- Just a so-so movie about the chess player Bobby Fisher

24) ROOM- An excellent movie

25) RUN BOY RUN- I enjoyed this very much

26) SAMBA- I enjoyed it

27) SOUTHPAW- I enjoyed this movie despite its predictable plot

28) SPOTLIGHT- An excellent movie

29) STEVE JOBS- I liked it.

30) THEEB- Excellent reviews and I liked it

31) TRAINWRECK- I liked the movie

32) TRUMBO- Excellent movie- don’t miss it

33) YOSEMITE- I found it just OK.

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) MARGUERITE– Jacob Burns, Bethel. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “French socialite Marguerite Dumont has one great passion in life: singing opera. Unfortunately, she’s exceedingly bad at it. But with no one brave enough to tell her, she throws her heart and soul into preparing for her first solo recital.”

3/11/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) REMEMBER– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “As lifelong friends Zev and Max move into their last years, they make a solemn pact to hunt down and take revenge on the Nazi commander who was responsible for slaughtering their families during World War II.”

3/11/16– Fairly good reviews especially by audiences. TRDB.

3) HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Clearview 100. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by insights gained through a self-help seminar, 60-year-old Doris Miller brazenly steps forward to pursue the affections of a much younger co-worker — and inadvertently becomes a hit with his hipster cohorts.”

3/11/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN– Danbury. 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 considered drama it might be considered sci-fi by others. TRDB.

5) CITY OF GOLD– Jacob Burns. 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.

REPEATS-

1) KNIGHT OF CUPS– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Weak reviews.

2) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Bethel. Excellent reviews.

3) THE LADY IN THE VAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk

4) SPOTLIGHT– Bethel. Excellent movie.

5) SON OF SAUL– Clearview 100. Very difficult to watch and the movie was just fair.

6) ROOM–  Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked it very much

7) WHERE TO INVADE NEXT– Jacob Burns. OK reviews.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

1. A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) COLLIDING DREAMS– I liked it

2) DOUGH- OK reviews and lots of people have enjoyed this one

3) ROOM- I liked this movie very much

1. B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Very good reviews

2) THE WITCH– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this unsettling tale of horror set in the 17th century, a family of devout Christian homesteaders on the edge of the New England wilderness faces hardships so extreme that they begin to fear the devil is lurking among them.”

2/19/16- Good reviews but not my kind of movie. TRDB.

1. C) LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Inspired by insights gained through a self-help seminar, 60-year-old Doris Miller brazenly steps forward to pursue the affections of a much younger co-worker — and inadvertently becomes a hit with his hipster cohorts.”

3/11/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Very good reviews

3) COLLIDING DREAMS– I liked it

4) DOUGH- OK reviews and lots of people have liked it

5) THE LADY IN THE VAN– A waste of time- skip it

6) SON OF SAUL– Very depressing– the movie was fair

7) 45 YEARS– I liked it very much- Limited Screening

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

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

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment March 17th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #584

MARCH 10, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) MARSHLAND– Netflix

2) RAMS– At the Theater

3) COMING HOME– Netflix

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) 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. 

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) YOSEMITE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1985 California, this engaging drama follows three suburban fifth-graders as they navigate shifting friendships, grapple with death for the first time in their young lives and encounter danger after a mountain lion is spotted in town.”

1/1/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and audiences have liked it a lot. TRDB.

2/4/16- Good reviews as noted but I didn’t care for it. It was, however, a great advertisement for better child supervision as these kids were “lost.” TRDB. Netflix.

2) MARSHLAND- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ordered to work as a team despite their incompatible personalities, two Madrid homicide detectives journey to the countryside to track down a serial killer before he takes more victims in this gripping thriller set in 1980.”

8/27/15- Excellent reviews for this foreign thriller. TRDB.

3/6/16- A thriller that is well acted with a good screenplay. TRDB. Netflix.

3) COMING HOME– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the waning days of China’s Cultural Revolution, dissident Lu Yanshi returns home after he’s released from a labor camp, only to find his wife suffering from amnesia. But Lu is determined to bring back her lost memory.”

9/8/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3/9/16- This movie was very touching and I liked it very much. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 15-

1) STEVE JOBS: THE MAN IN THE MACHINE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Focusing on the harsher side of Apple’s mercurial CEO Steve Jobs, this unflinching documentary examines the demanding work environment he created for the company’s employees and his cultlike influence on technology culture.”

9/1/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

9/4/15- A very good documentary that kept my interest throughout although I would have enjoyed knowing more about his personal life. TRDB. 

2) STEVE JOBS: 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Everyone knows about the products Steve Jobs designed, but few people really knew the man behind the technology. This revealing biopic focuses on a few key incidents and relationships to tell the story of a digital visionary who changed the world.”

10/8/15- Very good reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

10/21/15- I enjoyed this movie very much and I think I got a good picture of the creative genius of this man who to many was a real son-of-a-bitch. TRDB.

3) CAROL- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living in a 1950s society that considers lesbian romance taboo, two women from disparate backgrounds — young store clerk Therese Belivet and wealthy socialite Carol Aird — develop an attachment to each other that ultimately turns passionate.”

10/18/15- Excellent reviews for this drama starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara. TRDB.

1/4/16- Great reviews as noted and I liked the movie. I did feel that the love affair lacked the emotional intensity that I expected. I’ve also seen Cate Blanchett do much better. TRDB. 

4) TRUMBO– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bryan Cranston stars as famed 1940s screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, whose refusal to testify before the congressional House Un-American Activities Committee resulted in a prison sentence and being blacklisted as a communist.”

11/6/15- Not to be confused by the movie from 2007 with the same name, this drama got fair to good reviews. TRDB.

11/28/15– I enjoyed this movie very much and would not be surprised at a nomination for Best Actor for Bryan Cranston. TRDB.

5) WHAT OUR FATHERS DID: A NAZI LEGACY–  2015- Synopsis by Netflix. “Traveling together, two sons of high-ranking Nazi officials and a Jewish human-rights attorney whose family was decimated in the German death camps make a solemn journey to the grim landscapes of their fathers’ World War II experiences.”

11/6/15- Very good reviews by critics and fair ones by audiences. A few excellent reviews tossed in as well. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, MARCH 4-

Recommended-

1) THE BOY AND THE BEAST– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Kyuta, a lonely boy from the human realm, stumbles into the world of beasts, he strikes up a friendship with Kumatetsu — an equally lonely bakemono. Soon, the two are off on a series of adventures that forge an even stronger bond between them.”

3/4/16- Fairly good reviews for this animated movie. TRDB.

2) CEMETERY OF SPLENDOUR– 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.”

3/4/16- Sounds silly but it has received excellent reviews so I’ll recommend it. TRDB.

3) 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.

4) THEY WILL HAVE TO KILL US FIRST– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a strict reading of Sharia law, Islamic jihadists who invaded northern Mali in 2012 invoked a total ban on music, driving Malian musicians into exile. But they’re determined to reclaim their musical culture, as chronicled in this documentary.”

3/4/16- Excellent reviews by the critics and very good ones by audiences. TRDB.

5) TRAPPED– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Amid a political climate that’s produced a staggering array of regulations restricting abortion providers, this topical documentary looks at the clinics struggling to provide care and the people going to court to protect women’s reproductive rights.”

3/4/16- Great reviews for this well-timed documentary. TRDB.

6) WHITE LIES– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this early 20th-century drama set in New Zealand, Maori medicine woman Paraiti is sought out by a European desperate to terminate her pregnancy. At first Paraiti refuses to help the woman, but subsequent tragic events begin to change her mind.”

3/4/16- Just 2 professional reviews and they are both very good. TRDB.

7) HERE COME THE VIDEOFREEX– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1969, CBS News hired a group of alternative-media journalists armed with portable video cameras to report on the counterculture beat. While the results were never aired, the collective remained together and created its own progressive legacy.”

3/9/16– I’ve read just 2 reviews for this documentary and they are both good. TRDB. (Wed. 3/7)

Not Recommended–

1) KNIGHT OF CUPS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Drifting through life amid the hollowness of hedonistic Hollywood, an uninspired and unmoored screenwriter moves from one fleeting relationship.”

3/4/16- Weak reviews all around. TRDB.

2) LONDON HAS FALLEN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this follow-up to the thriller “Olympus Has Fallen,” the U.S. president learns of a planned terrorist attack at the funeral of Britain’s prime minister — an event that will be attended by nearly every Western head of state.”

3/4/16- Awful reviews. TRDB.

3) ROAD GAMES– Synopsis by Netflix. “After a disastrous vacation trip, things seem to be looking up for Jack when he hooks up with lovely Véronique while hitchhiking through rural France. But things take an ominous turn when they accept a ride from the wrong man.”

3/4/16- Fair reviews. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE DANISH GIRL–  2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1930, Danish painter Einar Wegener elects to have gender-reassignment surgery, with the blessing of his wife, Gerda. This true-life narrative of personal courage also sheds light on the medical origins of transsexual surgery.”

11/24/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

12/29/15- This movie is more of a love story than about the transgender issue and is definitely worth seeing. TRDB.

2) STEVE JOBS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Everyone knows about the products Steve Jobs designed, but few people really knew the man behind the technology. This revealing biopic focuses on a few key incidents and relationships to tell the story of a digital visionary who changed the world.”

10/8/15- Very good reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

10/21/15- I enjoyed this movie very much and I think I got a good picture of the creative genius of this man who to many was a real son-of-a-bitch. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) 4^th. MAN OUT- Good reviews

2) 99 HOMES- I liked it

3) BRIDGE OF SPIES- I liked this movie very much (new last week)

4) CLOSED SEASON-  (NEW) A very good movie and I liked it very much

5) CREED- The recent one with Sly Stallone- good reviews

6) DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL- Very good reviews and I liked it a lot

7) THE END OF THE TOUR- Great movie!!

8)GRANDMA- I liked it a lot– not really a comedy despite Lily Tomlin

9) INFINITELY POLAR BEAR- I enjoyed this movie

10) LABYRINTH OF LIES- A very good movie

11) THE LAST MAN ON THE MOON-

12) MAN-UP- Good reviews and I enjoyed it as well

13) THE MARTIAN- Excellent reviews and many awards- I didn’t care for it

14) MISTRESS AMERICA- I enjoyed this movie

15) MR. HOLMES- I enjoyed it but was a bit disappointed

16) THE NEW GIRLFRIEND- I enjoyed it

17) PAWN SACRIFICE- Just a so-so movie about the chess player Bobby Fisher

18)ROOM- An excellent movie

19) RUN BOY RUN- I enjoyed this very much

20) SAMBA- I enjoyed it

21) SOUTHPAW- I enjoyed this movie despite its predictable plot

22) SPOTLIGHT- An excellent movie

23) THEEB- Excellent reviews and I hope to see this one soon

24) TRAINWRECK- I liked the movie

25) TRUMBO- Excellent movie- don’t miss it

26) YOSEMITE- I found it just OK.

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS–

1) KNIGHT OF CUPS– Jacob Burns. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Drifting through life amid the hollowness of hedonistic Hollywood, an uninspired and unmoored screenwriter moves from one fleeting relationship.”

3/4/16- Weak reviews all around. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Excellent reviews

2) BROOKLYN– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I enjoyed this movie

3) THE LADY IN THE VAN- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Don’t bother

4) SPOTLIGHT-  Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. A very good movie and definitely one of my favorites of the year

5) SON OF SAUL– Bethel, Clearview 100. Difficult to watch and a “fair” movie

6) THE BIG SHORT– Bethel. Very well done and I enjoyed it

7) ROOM– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Everybody should see this one

8) WHERE TO INVADE NEXT– Jacob Burns. Reviews all over- many very good and others really bad

9) 45 YEARS– Garden Cinema Norwalk. I liked this very much and it promoted lots of discussion for days after seeing it

10) THE REVENANT– Danbury. I didn’t care for it

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

1. A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) COLLIDING DREAMS– Very good reviews for this documentary

2) ROOM- I liked it very much

3) DOUGH– OK reviews

4) SPOTLIGHT– A must-see

1. B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) THE CLUB– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “At a seaside facility that houses disgraced priests, the death of a new arrival prompts the Catholic Church to send upright Father García to investigate. But he faces a dilemma when he finds that revealing the truth isn’t in the Church’s interests.”

2/5/16- Very good reviews by the critics and even better ones by audiences. TRDB.

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.

1. C) LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) COLLIDING DREAMS– Very good reviews for this documentary

2) DOUGH- OK reviews and lots of people have liked it

3) THE LADY IN THE VAN– A waste of time

4) SON OF SAUL– Very depressing– the movie was fair

5) 45 YEARS– Limited Screening

6) IN THE SHADOW OF WOMEN– Limited Screening

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

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

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment March 10th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #583

MARCH 3, 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) THEEB- Hot Wire On-Demand

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

Again, I’ve seen pretty much all of the movies out there right now but I expect that next week a few new ones will be out and hopefully I’ll get to go.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) INSIDE OUT– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “When her family relocates across the country, tween Riley Anderson struggles with the stress of her new situation and her animated emotions get carried away — quite literally — on a fantastic journey through her mind.”

2/26/16- A very clever animated movie but I have trouble getting into animated films in general and this one too. TRDB.

2) ENTERTAINMENT– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “While on his way to a birthday-party gig in Los Angeles — where he hopes to reconcile with his estranged daughter — an abysmal middle-aged comedian plays a succession of shows at dead-end dives across the Mojave Desert.”

11/11/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2/26/16- I don’t know what the critics were thinking but this movie was “the worst.” I had to turn it off. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THEEB– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this adventure tale set in the far corners of the Ottoman Empire during World War I, a Bedouin boy who comes from a family of pilgrim guides must use all of his acquired skills to survive a desert journey gone seriously awry.”

11/2/15- Terrific reviews. TRDB.

2/28/16- A well done if a bit slow movie that has been nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Film for 2015. I liked it- very good but not great. TRDB. Hotwire On-Demand.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 8-

Recommended-

1) THE TRIBE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this dark-edged drama conveyed completely in sign language, teenager Sergey arrives at a boarding school for deaf-mute students and quickly discovers that there’s far more going on among the students than meets the eye.”

6/19/15- Fairly good reviews in general– some very good. TRDB.

2) 10,000 km– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Deeply in love and planning to have a baby, Barcelona residents Alex and Sergi must alter those plans when Alex is offered a one-year artist residency in America. But the couple vows to stay close via digital technology.”

7/10/15- Good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

3) BREAK POINT– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Doubles tennis player Jimmy Price’s poor on- and off-court behavior has cost him his partner, along with his spot on the professional circuit. In a last grab at glory, Jimmy persuades his estranged brother to team with him for a major tournament.”

9/4/15- Fairly good reviews.  TRDB.

4) COMING HOME– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the waning days of China’s Cultural Revolution, dissident Lu Yanshi returns home after he’s released from a labor camp, only to find his wife suffering from amnesia. But Lu is determined to bring back her lost memory.”

9/8/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5) BLACK MASS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fact-based drama recounts the story of notorious Boston gangster “Whitey” Bulger, who turned FBI informant to get rid of his mob rivals. Later facing imminent indictment, he eluded authorities for more than 15 years, until his arrest in 2011.”

9/15/15- Very good reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

6) VICTORIA– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “When adventurous Victoria goes out for a night of clubbing, she meets four young men who invite her to join them for some after-hours revelry. Only after they start planning a brazen heist does Victoria realize she’s running with a dangerous crowd.”

10/8/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) THE FORBIDDEN ROOM– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this wildly surreal comedic mystery tale, the crew of a submarine trapped in the ocean depths can’t imagine that things could get any worse. Then they discover that a dangerous band of forest thieves has joined them on board.”

12/1/15- Lots of positive reviews from the critics but they all called it an “unusual” movie. Audiences have liked it also. TRDB.

8) MACBETH– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Justin Kurzel gives a full-bodied treatment to this inspired retelling of William Shakespeare’s classic tale about an ambitious Scottish nobleman thirsting for power, who’s egged on by his conniving wife.

12/4/15- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) THE WONDERS– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “At age 12, Gelsomina is being groomed to inherit a beekeeping kingdom in rural Italy. But despite her family’s efforts to preserve their pastoral existence, modern life intervenes by way of a TV contest and the arrival of a juvenile delinquent.”

10/23/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

11/9/15- It beats me as to what all of the critics saw in this movie. Aside from it being a slice of life if anyone can tell me what this was about— please do. Miss this movie. TRDB. 

2) SPECTRE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “James Bond continues his run of romance and foreign intrigue in this tense thriller that pits him against the global terrorist organization SPECTRE. Already battling political interference, MI6 and Bond must again take on their most implacable foe.”

11/6/15- Fair reviews at best! TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, FEB. 26-

Recommended-

1) 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.

2) JACK OF THE RED HEARTS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the lam from the law, teenage runaway Jack finagles her way into a job as caregiver and live-in companion to an autistic 11-year-old girl. But after making a surprising connection with her young charge, Jack’s past catches up with her.”

2/26/16- Weak professional reviews but audiences have liked it much more. 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. TRDB.

4) THE LAST MAN ON THE MOON– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this artful blend of memoir and documentary, former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan looks back to the glory days of NASA’s lunar landings and his unique distinction of being the last man to stand on the moon.”

2/26/16- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) VIRUS OF FEAR– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When swimming instructor Jordi kisses a terrified child on the cheek to comfort him, the boy’s infuriated parents interpret the gesture as abuse. Struggling to defend himself, Jordi must also bear the nightmarish shame of his alleged crime.”

2/26/16- Just 1 review so far and it’s pretty good. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

1) 4^th. MAN OUT- Good reviews

2) 99 HOMES- I liked it

3) ALL MISTAKES BURIED- Mixed reviews

4) BRIDGE OF SPIES- I liked this movie very much (new last week)

5) CLOSED SEASON-  (NEW) A very good movie and I liked it very much

6) CREED- The recent one with Sly Stallone- good reviews

7) DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL- Very good reviews and I liked it a lot

8)THE END OF THE TOUR- Great movie!!

9) GRANDMA- I liked it a lot– not really a comedy despite Lily Tomlin

10) INFINITELY POLAR BEAR- I enjoyed this movie

11) LABYRINTH OF LIES- A very good movie

12) LAMB- Good reviews and I plan on seeing it

13) THE LAST MAN ON THE MOON– (NEW) 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this artful blend of memoir and documentary, former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan looks back to the glory days of NASA’s lunar landings and his unique distinction of being the last man to stand on the moon.”

2/26/16- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

14) MAN-UP- Good reviews and I enjoyed it as well

15) THE MARTIAN- Excellent reviews and many awards- I didn’t care for it

16) MISTRESS AMERICA- I enjoyed this movie

17) MR. HOLMES- I enjoyed it but was a bit disappointed

18)THE NEW GIRLFRIEND- I enjoyed it

19) PAWN SACRIFICE- Just a so-so movie about the chess player Bobby Fisher

20) ROOM- An excellent movie

21) RUN BOY RUN- I enjoyed this very much

22) SAMBA- I enjoyed it

23) SOUTHPAW- I enjoyed this movie despite its predictable plot

24) SPOTLIGHT- An excellent movie

25) THEEB- Excellent reviews and I hope to see this one soon

26) TRAINWRECK- I liked the movie

27) TRUMBO- Excellent movie- don’t miss it

28) YOSEMITE– (NEW) 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1985 California, this engaging drama follows three suburban fifth-graders as they navigate shifting friendships, grapple with death for the first time in their young lives and encounter danger after a mountain lion is spotted in town.”

1/1/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and audiences have liked it a lot. TRDB.

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN FAIRFIELD AND WESTCHESTER COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS- NONE

REPEATS-

1)  EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 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.

2) BROOKLYN- Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I enjoyed this a lot.

3) HAIL CAESAR– Bethel. I doubt if I’ll see this one.

4) THE LADY IN THE VAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. A waste of time as far as I’m concerned.

5) SON OF SAUL– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very difficult to sit through– a fair movie in general.

6) THE BIG SHORT– Bethel. I liked it very much.

7) SPOTLIGHT- Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100. I liked it very much and it just won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

8) ROOM- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent movie with wonderful acting and a great screenplay. The movie is fiction but there is ample precedent for this scenario.

9) 45 YEARS– This movie was described as “too slow” by many, while it was a bit slow at times I feel that this was what was needed in order to portray the relationship properly. This movie stimulated a whole lot of discussion and I liked it very much.

11) WHERE TO INVADE NEXT– Jacob Burns.  Fairly good reviews from some critics and pretty bad ones from others. Audiences have seemed to like it.  TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

1. A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH-

1) LONDON HAS FALLEN– Poor early reviews

2) RACE– Many of my friends have liked this one

3) DOUGH– Reviews have been good for this comedy

4) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it

5) SPOTLIGHT– A very good movie that just won for Best Picture

6) ROOM– I liked it very much.

1. B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

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.

1. C) LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

NEW-

1) THE LAST MAN ON THE MOON- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this artful blend of memoir and documentary, former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan looks back to the glory days of NASA’s lunar landings and his unique distinction of being the last man to stand on the moon.”

2/26/16- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) 45 YEARS– This movie was described as “too slow” by many, while it was a bit slow at times I feel that this was what was needed in order to portray the relationship properly.

2) DOUGH–  Early reviews are positive for this comedy.

3) IN THE SHADOW OF WOMEN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite being happily married to his creative partner, filmmaker Pierre finds himself mired in a love triangle when he falls for a young intern. Unable to choose between the two women, Pierre tries to keep them both as his lovers.”

1/15/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) SON OF SAUL– The movie was difficult to watch and just OK

5) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it

6) MUSTANG– I liked it very much. Limited Screening time.

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

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

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment March 3rd, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #582

FEBRUARY 25, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

SOME OF YOU MAY HAVE RECEIVED SOME OF MY OLD SAVED EMAILS DUE TO A COMPUTER GLITCH (ME). SORRY FOR THAT!!

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) WELCOME TO LEITH– Netflix.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER-

I HAVE SEEN MOST OF WHAT’S OUT THERE SO NO NEW ONES FOR ME!!

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

1) CHI-RAQ– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on the classical Greek play “Lysistrata,” this biting satire follows a group of fed-up women who organize a crusade against the daily violence that surrounds them in the gang-ridden South Side of Chicago.

12/4/15- Good reviews from critics and just fair ones from audiences. TRDB.

2/21/16- I’m with the audiences on this one– did not like it at all and turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

2) WELCOME TO LEITH– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Planning to take over the city government, white supremacist Craig Cobb moved to tiny Leith, N.D., and began terrifying residents with armed patrols and a neo-Nazi rally. This unsettling documentary charts the community’s fight to reclaim the town.”

9/8/15- Great reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2/23/16- Truly an excellent documentary that should be required viewing. Very scary. TRDB. Netflix.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 1-

Recommended-

1) SUNSHINE SUPERMAN– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Obsessed with skydiving since childhood, Carl Boenish pioneered foot-launched human flight — aka BASE jumping — as chronicled in this fascinating documentary. Footage of Boenish’s earliest feats includes his famed leap from Yosemite’s El Capitan.”

5/22/15- Generally good reviews with a few noted exceptions. TRDB.

2) ROOM- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being abducted, raped and imprisoned in a small windowless room, a young woman gives birth and is forced to raise her son, Jack, in the same improvised space. But after five years, Jack’s mother begins planning their escape.”

10/11/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

10/26/15- A splendid movie with wonderful acting and a great screenplay. The movie is fiction but there is ample precedent for this scenario. TRDB.

3) BRIDGE OF SPIES– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “At the height of the Cold War in 1960, the downing of an American spy plane and the pilot’s subsequent capture by the Soviets draws Brooklyn attorney James Donovan Tom Hanks) into the middle of an intense effort to secure the aviator’s release.”

10/11/15- Excellent reviews for this drama/mystery. TRDB.

10/17/15- I enjoyed this cold war spy thriller, even with the few touches of Hollywood thrown in by Steven Spielberg. Also, I read that the Tom Hanks character, portrayed as a novice, actually had been involved in the Nuremberg trials. TRDB. 

4) SUFFRAGETTE- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dreaming of the right to vote, working-class Maud eagerly joins the early feminist movement. But when the peaceful protests of the suffragettes accomplish nothing, they’re driven to more radical methods of effecting change.”

10/20/15- Fairly good reviews from most critics. TRDB.

5) MISS YOU ALREADY– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Best friends forever, Milly and Jess are confident they’ll weather all of life’s struggles together, no matter how different their worlds become. But their relationship is tested when Milly is diagnosed with cancer just as Jess finally gets pregnant.”

11/6/15- OK reviews from critics and very good ones from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) BIG STONE GAP– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “While living an uneventful existence with her mother in a Virginia coal-mining community, pharmacist Ave Maria Mulligan comes upon information that eventually transforms not only her life but the life of the town.”

10/8/15- Just a few reviews but they are generally negative and call the movie a corny rural romance. TRDB.

2) LIFE– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “After “Life” magazine hires him to shoot pictures of a not-yet-famous James Dean, freelance photographer Dennis Stock takes a train trip with the enigmatic actor before capturing what would become an iconic image of Dean in Times Square.

12/4/15– Just OK reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

3) DON VERDEAN– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Offered a golden opportunity, biblical archaeologist Don Verdean travels to the Holy Land in search of religious relics on a trip financed by an evangelist. When the expedition fails to turn up artifacts, Don decides to manufacture some of his own.”

12/11/15- Poor reviews by most critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, FEB. 19-

Recommended-

1) DIAMOND TONGUES– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “For aspiring actress Edith Welland, the path to stardom proves steep and rocky — especially when her ex-boyfriend, who is a complete amateur, stumbles into acting and threatens to pass her by on the road to success.”

2/19/16- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) 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 and OK reviews from audiences. TRDB.

3) RISEN- 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this biblical drama, Roman tribune Clavius is ordered to find the missing body of Jesus in the weeks after the Nazarene’s crucifixion in order to refute rumors of his Resurrection and prevent unrest in Jerusalem.”

2/19/16- Fair reviews from critics and much better ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) ROLLING PAPERS– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Responding to Colorado’s 2014 legalization of cannabis, The Denver Post hired its own columnist on the topic, Ricardo Baca. This pot-friendly documentary follows Baca as he pioneers the dawn of modern marijuana journalism.”

2/19/16- Fair reviews from both critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) FORSAKEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Civil War veteran John Henry Clayton tires of the life he’s made for himself as a renowned quick-draw gunfighter, he returns to his hometown hoping to mend fences with his estranged father. But a gang of baddies soon tests John Henry’s patience.”

2/19/16- Really poor professional reviews but audiences have liked it. Starring both Keith and Donald Sutherland. TRDB.

2) WE ARE TWISTED F***ING SISTER– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Glam-rock legends Twisted Sister labored for a decade in the suburban clubs surrounding New York City before achieving national fame. This engaging documentary fondly recalls the band’s long and colorful history.”

2/19/16- Good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

3) THE WITCH– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this unsettling tale of horror set in the 17th century, a family of devout Christian homesteaders on the edge of the New England wilderness faces hardships so extreme that they begin to fear the devil is lurking among them.”

2/19/16- Good reviews but not my kind of movie. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

1) 4^th. MAN OUT- Good reviews

2) 99 HOMES- I liked it

3) ALL MISTAKES BURIED- Mixed reviews

4) AMY- I liked this documentary about Amy Winehouse

5) BRIDGE OF SPIES- I liked this movie very much (new last week)

6) DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL- Very good reviews and I liked it a lot

7) THE END OF THE TOUR- Great movie!!

8)INFINITELY POLAR BEAR- I enjoyed this movie

9) LABYRINTH OF LIES- A very good movie

10) LAMB- Good reviews and I plan on seeing it

11) MAN-UP- Good reviews and I enjoyed it as well

12) THE MARTIAN- Excellent reviews and many awards- I didn’t care for it

13) MISSISSIPPI GRIND- I liked this movie

14) MISTRESS AMERICA- I enjoyed this movie

15) MR. HOLMES- I enjoyed it but was a bit disappointed

16) PAWN SACRIFICE- Just a so-so movie about the chess player Bobby Fisher

17) ROOM- An excellent movie

18)RUN BOY RUN- I enjoyed this very much

19) SAMBA- I enjoyed it

20) SOUTHPAW- I enjoyed this movie despite its predictable plot

21) SPOTLIGHT- An excellent movie

22) THEEB- Excellent reviews and I hope to see this one soon

23) TRAINWRECK- I liked the movie

24) TRUMBO- Excellent movie- don’t miss it

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 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.

2) A WAR– Jacob Burns. 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.

REPEATS-

1) BROOKLYN- Bethel, Danbury, Garden Cinema Norwalk. I enjoyed this a lot.

2) HAIL CAESAR– Bethel. I doubt if I’ll see this one.

3) THE LADY IN THE VAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. A waste of time as far as I’m concerned.

4) SON OF SAUL– Jacob Burns, Bethel. Very difficult to sit through– a fair movie in general.

5) THE BIG SHORT– Bethel, Danbury. I liked it very much.

6) WHERE TO INVADE NEXT?- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. Don’t bother.

7) TOUCHED WITH FIRE– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Committed to a mental hospital after going off their medications, bipolar patients Carla and Marco — who share a passion for poetry — soon fall in love. But the feelings that connect them fuel their volatility, and starts to spin out of control.”

2/13/16- Mixed reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

8) SPOTLIGHT- Danbury, Clearview 100. I liked it very much.

9) ROOM- Clearview 100 Garden Cinema Norwalk. An excellent movie and I highly recommend it.

10) 45 YEARS– Garden Cinema Norwalk. Great movie that promoted lots of discussion later.

11) MUSTANG– Jacob Burns. I enjoyed this movie very much. Limited screenings.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

1. A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH (AND DELRAY)

1) 45 YEARS- I liked it very much– promoted lots of discussion.

2) DOUGH– Looked silly to me but reviews have been good

3) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it.

4) SPOTLIGHT- Liked it very much.

5) THE PRIME MINISTERS: SOLDIERS AND PEACEMAKERS- Just fair reviews.

1. B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

1) EISENSTEIN IN GUANAJUATO– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Famed Soviet director Sergei Eisenstein traveled to Mexico in 1931 to make a film about that nation and its history. His experiences while working on Que Viva Mexico would forever alter his life and his art, as chronicled in this provocative biopic.”

2/5/16- Weak reviews. TRDB.

2) 45 YEARS–  2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Geoff and Kate Mercer’s plans for a 45th anniversary party are upset by some unexpected news: A body found in the Swiss Alps has been identified as Geoff’s long-ago love Katya, who perished in an accident 50 years earlier.”

12/23/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

1/30/16- I enjoyed this movie very much and also found it terribly sad. One reviewer said that the story proved that good marriages need patience and GUTS. Another said “45 Years exposes the paradoxical balance of the successful marriage, one that requires a sentimental suspension of disbelief on the one hand and a hard-headed ability to deal with the everyday on the other.” TRDB.

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

1) 45 YEARS–  2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Geoff and Kate Mercer’s plans for a 45th anniversary party are upset by some unexpected news: A body found in the Swiss Alps has been identified as Geoff’s long-ago love Katya, who perished in an accident 50 years earlier.”

12/23/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

1/30/16- I enjoyed this movie very much and also found it terribly sad. One reviewer said that the story proved that good marriages need patience and GUTS. Another said “45 Years exposes the paradoxical balance of the successful marriage, one that requires a sentimental suspension of disbelief on the one hand and a hard-headed ability to deal with the everyday on the other.” TRDB.

2) DOUGH- Good reviews but it looked silly to me.

3) IN THE SHADOW OF WOMEN– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite being happily married to his creative partner, filmmaker Pierre finds himself mired in a love triangle when he falls for a young intern. Unable to choose between the two women, Pierre tries to keep them both as his lovers.”

1/15/16- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) SON OF SAUL– Very difficult to watch. The movie was OK. Limited Screenings.

5) THE CLUB– Good reviews.

6) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it.

7) MUSTANG– A very good drama from Turkey. Limited Screenings.

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

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

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment February 25th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #581

FEBRUARY 18, 2016

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

MY FAMILY IS VISITING THIS WEEK SO ONLY 1 MOVIE– LUCKY I LIKED IT

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) GRANDMA- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Urgently in need of $600 to pay for an abortion, 18-year-old Sage seeks help from her acerbic grandmother, Elle Reid — who has no extra money. Setting off to raise the cash from Elle’s erstwhile friends and exes, the two instead dredge up the past.”

8/18/15– Excellent reviews for this comedy.

2/12/16- A wonderful family story with elements of humor by Lily Tomlin. Well written and acted and I enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix.

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 23-

Recommended-

1) YOSEMITE- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1985 California, this engaging drama follows three suburban fifth-graders as they navigate shifting friendships, grapple with death for the first time in their young lives and encounter danger after a mountain lion is spotted in town.”

1/1/16- Fairly good reviews from the critics and audiences have liked it a lot. TRDB.

2) ENTERTAINMENT- 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “While on his way to a birthday-party gig in Los Angeles — where he hopes to reconcile with his estranged daughter — an abysmal middle-aged comedian plays a succession of shows at dead-end dives across the Mojave Desert.”

11/11/15- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3)  RACING EXTINCTION– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the face of accelerating species extinctions worldwide, a diverse team of activists, scientists and inventors works together to come up with technologies and regulations that could forestall this seemingly unstoppable global tragedy.”

9/18/15- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) I SMILE BACK– 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the surface, Laney Brooks has the life that many covet: two adorable kids, a beautiful home and a successful husband. But behind the façade, she’s headed for crisis, tortured by self-doubt and medicating herself heavily with drugs and alcohol.”

10/23/15- Generally poor reviews, one critic saying that the movie was just one more about suburban ennui. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENED LAST FRIDAY, FEB. 12-

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.

2) BAD HURT– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “With one son battling post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of his combat experiences and a special-needs adult daughter to care for, beleaguered parents Elaine and Ed Kendall find themselves stretched to their emotional limits.”

2/12/16- Good reviews. TRDB.

3) GLASSLAND– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Desperate to earn more money to save his alcoholic mother and mend his fractured family, a young taxi driver reluctantly takes a job that draws him into the ugly world of human trafficking.”

2/12/16- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

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.

5) TOUCHED WITH FIRE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Committed to a mental hospital after going off their medications, bipolar patients Carla and Marco — who share a passion for poetry — soon fall in love. But the feelings that connect them fuel their volatility, and starts to spin out of control.”

2/13/16- Mixed reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

6) 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.

Not Recommended–

1) HOW TO BE SINGLE– 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young and footloose, New Yorkers Alice, Robin, Lucy, Meg, Tom and David are living the dream. With the city as their playground, their adventures of love and lust play out over a 10-year period, providing a fresh perspective on being single.”

2/12/16- Weak reviews. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

HOTWIRE ON-DEMAND-

1) 4^th. MAN OUT- Good reviews

2) ALL MISTAKES BURIED- Mixed reviews

3) AMY- I liked this documentary about Amy Winehouse

4) BRIDGE OF SPIES- I liked this movie very much (new last week)

5) DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL- Very good reviews and I liked it a lot

6) THE END OF THE TOUR- Great movie!!

7) INFINITELY POLAR BEAR- I enjoyed this movie

8)LABYRINTH OF LIES- A very good movie

9) LAMB- Good reviews and I plan on seeing it

10) LOVE & MERCY- I liked it

11) MAN-UP- Good reviews and I enjoyed it as well

12) THE MARTIAN- Excellent reviews and many awards- I didn’t care for it

13) MISSISSIPPI GRIND- I liked this movie

14) MISTRESS AMERICA- I enjoyed this movie

15) MR. HOLMES- I enjoyed it but was a bit disappointed

16) THE NEW GIRLFRIEND- I liked this movie

17) PAWN SACRIFICE- Just a so-so movie about the chess player Bobby Fisher

18)PRESCRIPTION THUGS- Good reviews for this documentary

19) SOUTHPAW- I enjoyed this movie despite its predictable plot

20) TRAINWRECK- I liked the movie

21) TRUMBO- Excellent movie- don’t miss it

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN WESTCHESTER AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) TOUCHED WITH FIRE– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “Committed to a mental hospital after going off their medications, bipolar patients Carla and Marco — who share a passion for poetry — soon fall in love. But the feelings that connect them fuel their volatility, and starts to spin out of control.”

2/13/16- Mixed reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) 45 YEARS– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Geoff and Kate Mercer’s plans for a 45th anniversary party are upset by some unexpected news: A body found in the Swiss Alps has been identified as Geoff’s long-ago love Katya, who perished in an accident 50 years earlier.”

12/23/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

1/30/16- I enjoyed this movie very much and also found it terribly sad. One reviewer said that the story proved that good marriages need patience and GUTS. Another said “45 Years exposes the paradoxical balance of the successful marriage, one that requires a sentimental suspension of disbelief on the one hand and a hard-headed ability to deal with the everyday on the other.” TRDB.

2) HAIL, CAESAR– Bethel, Danbury. 2016. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1950s Hollywood, Eddie Mannix labors behind the scenes to “fix” the indiscretions committed by a major film studio’s marquee stars. But Eddie has his work cut out when some angry scriptwriters abduct a screen idol from a movie set.”

2/2/16- I’ve seen just 1 reviews and it is bad. Also, the coming attractions looked stupid. TRDB.

3) WHERE TO INVADE NEXT?– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “With an eye toward finding solutions to the social problems plaguing America, provocative documentarian Michael Moore embarks on a European expedition to interview ordinary citizens about their nations’ effective policies and practices.”

12/23/15- Fairly good reviews from some critics and pretty bad ones from others. Audiences have seemed to like it.  TRDB.

4) THE LADY IN THE VAN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this touching human drama adapted from writer Alan Bennett’s bestselling memoir, he befriends the elderly Miss Shepherd, who’s living in a van that’s been parked in his driveway for 15 years.”:

12/3/15- Very good reviews from audiences and critics. TRDB.

1/27/15– Maggie Smith is wonderful as usual and were it not for her I might not have enjoyed this movie. TRDB. 

5) BROOKLYN– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “After emigrating from Ireland, Eilis Lacey readily adapts to the vastly different New York City, where she falls for a young Italian. But when tragedy pulls her back to her hometown, she finds her loyalties divided between two nations — and two men.”

10/28/15- Great reviews. TRDB.

11/14/15- I really liked this movie very much. Great acting and a very interesting story with some humor thrown in as well. TRDB.

6) OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS– Bethel. These are always good. TRDB.

7) SPOTLIGHT– Clearview 100. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Revealing a string of cover-ups stretching back decades, a team of “Boston Globe” reporters exposes the Catholic Archdiocese’s history of keeping reports about child molestation and other priest-initiated abuse under wraps.”

10/28/15- Great reviews for this drama. TRDB.

11/13/15- The great reviews were well deserved. A very good drama and very realistic as well. TRDB.

8) ROOM– Clearview 100. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being abducted, raped and imprisoned in a small windowless room, a young woman gives birth and is forced to raise her son, Jack, in the same improvised space. But after five years, Jack’s mother begins planning their escape.”

10/11/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

10/26/15- A splendid movie with wonderful acting and a great screenplay. The movie is fiction but there is ample precedent for this scenario. TRDB.

9) SON OF SAUL– Jacob Burns. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Amid the horrors of Auschwitz, prisoner Saul Ausländer has the grim duty of transporting corpses from the camp’s gas chambers to the crematoria. But when he thinks he recognizes his son’s body, Saul sets out to save the boy from incineration.”

12/18/15- Excellent reviews for this Holocaust movie. Sounds grueling, however. TRDB.

2/10/16– Grueling was not quite descriptive enough. The movie describes a class of concentration inmates very well and tells a story at the same time. I don’t think that I liked this film as much as the critics did. TRDB.

10) MUSTANG– Jacob Burns. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Enraged by her granddaughters’ flirtations with some male classmates, a strict Turkish grandma refuses to let her young charges out of the house to keep them from ruining their marriage chances. But the girls find ways to circumvent the restraints.”

11/20/15- Excellent reviews. TRDB. 

1/15/16- A wonderful movie that is both moving and terribly sad at the same time. TRDB. 

11) THE BIG SHORT– Danbury. 2015. Synopsis by Netflix. “Before the housing and credit bubble of 2007 triggers an international economic meltdown, a handful of financial outsiders sees the crash coming and bets against the big banks in a daring play that could reap them huge profits.”

12/11/15- Very good reviews for this Wall Street drama. TRDB.

12/31/15- This movie was done in a very clever manner and managed to make the recent near collapse of the world economy understandable at the same time. Liked the movie a lot. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN PALM BEACH COUNTY-

1. A) MOVIES OF LAKE WORTH AND DELRAY-

1) RACE– I’ve seen only 1 review and it’s just fair

2) DOUGH- Reviews have been good. Coming attractions looked silly

3) 45 YEARS– I liked this film very much and it produced lots of discussion

4) ROOM- I liked this very much

5) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it

6) THE PRIME MINISTERS- SOLDIERS AND PEACEMAKERS– Good reviews and I  want to see this one

1. B) STONZEK THEATER AT LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE-

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- Just 2 reviews and they are both good. TRDB.

2) 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.

1. C) LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) 45 YEARS– I liked this film very much and it produced lots of discussion

2) DOUGH– Reviews have been good. Coming attractions looked silly

3) SON OF SAUL– Good movie but difficult to watch

4) THE CLUB- Very good reviews.

5) THE LADY IN THE VAN– I didn’t care for it

6) MUSTANG– I liked it. Limited Screening

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

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

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment February 18th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #580

Add comment February 11th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #578

Add comment January 28th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #577

Add comment January 21st, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #576

Add comment January 13th, 2016

FILM REVIEWS #575

Add comment January 7th, 2016