The Reel Dr. Bob

SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

I WILL BE AWAY NEXT WEEK SO THIS NEWSLETTER WILL CONTAIN INFORMATION FOR THE NEXT 2 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) NORTH SEA TEXAS– Netflix Streaming

2) FIVE DANCES– Netflix

3) GUINEVERE– Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

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

8/28/14- A coming of age story that was OK, more because of the acting than because of the story. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) FIVE DANCES– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Real dance phenoms show their acting chops in this tale about Chip, a prodigy from Kansas hoping to make it big in New York City. Chip’s first weeks of rehearsal are marked by triumphs and setbacks both in his personal life and in the studio.”

10/4/13- Just a few professional reviews for this documentary and they are poor. Today’s NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

8/31/14- Really a story about a young dancer, recently moved to NY, and how he attempts to fit in professionally and personally. I enjoyed the movie and especially the dancing which was the best part. TRDB.

3) GUINEVARE- 1999. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the verge of a breakdown at her sister’s wedding, a Harvard-bound teen finds the love she seeks in a photographer who’s as old as her parents.”

9/3/14- A fairly weak story that I and most critics liked anyway. Sarah Polley as the lead was very good. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 9-

1) IDA– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Raised in a Catholic orphanage during the Nazi occupation of Poland, Anna is poised to join the order when she learns she has a surviving aunt. But visiting the woman before taking her vows uncovers some inconvenient truths about her heritage.”5/2/14- Excellent reviews all around including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5/23/14– Difficult to watch at times but a very interesting story. Definitely recommended. TRDB.

2) FED UP– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Childhood obesity has become an ever-more serious medical issue in the United States. This eye-opening documentary examines the underlying causes behind the epidemic, including the marketing strategies of major U.S. food producers.”

5/9/14- Good reviews from both critics and audiences. TRDB.

3) TEENAGE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “With narration by actors Jena Malone, Ben Whishaw, Julia Hummer and Jessie Usher, filmmaker Matt Wolf explores the origins of the modern-day “teenager” — a demographic that didn’t even exist until the mid-20th century.”

3/14/14- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4) THE GALAPAGOS AFFAIR: SATAN CAME TO EDEN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Reading from letters, journals and memoirs, Cate Blanchett, Diane Kruger and others help narrate this little-known tale of a handful of European dreamers whose relocation to the Galapagos Islands in the 1930s took a tragic turn.”

4/4/14- Reviews have been mixed but more positive than negative. TRDB.

5) BORGMAN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A self-important suburban family gets a rude awakening in this dark fable with the arrival of Camiel Borgman to their neighborhood. Their new neighbor infiltrates himself into their lives … but is it possible that he’s the devil?”

6/6/14- Fairly good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) PALO ALTO– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a collection of short stories by James Franco (who also stars), this perceptive drama follows a group of disaffected teens in a wealthy California town who have money to burn but little parental supervision — and even less direction.”

5/9/14- Very good reviews. The NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

7) WHO IS DAYANI CRISTAL?- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the oppressive desert heat, Arizona authorities find a man’s decomposing body with only one clue to his identity: a tattoo reading “Dayani Cristal.” Gael García Bernal portrays the unknown man in dramatic segments of this intriguing documentary.”

4/25/14- Mixed reviews but more positive than negative. The NY Times liked it and so did audiences. TRDB.

8) THE EMPTY HOURS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the desolated coast of Veracruz, 17 year-old Sebastián takes over running his uncle’s small and cozy rent-by-the hour motel. There he meets Miranda, a regular customer who comes to the motel to meet a lover who always keeps her waiting. As Sebastián and Miranda get to know each other, an ambiguous game of seduction begins between them.”

7/11/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

1) GOD’S POCKET– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blue collar worker Mickey tries to cover things up when his stepson is killed in a suspicious construction accident, but a local reporter senses that something’s amiss. As he’s backed into a corner by the truth, Mickey struggles to find a way out.”5/9/14- Really weak reviews. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, SEPT. 16-

1) ILO ILO– 2013- Synopsis by Netflix. “Leaving the Philippines to work in Singapore, Teresa is hired as a maid by a couple whose spoiled son delights in bullying and belittling her. Over time, the household dynamic shifts as the son comes to revere Teresa — much to his mom’s annoyance.”3/20/14- Good early reviews. TRDB.

3/21/14- A moving drama with very interesting characters and wonderful acting. Really a story about how one person can influence your life and its often not family. TRDB.

2) THE GERMAN DOCTOR– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a young family opens a lakeside lodge in Patagonia, they have no idea that their first guest will be a Nazi war criminal. Unbeknownst to them, the charming doctor so entranced with 12-year-old Eva is none other than Josef Mengele.”

3/18/14- Good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

4/25/14– The NY Times liked this movie as did audiences and most other critics. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY, AUG. 29 IN ADDITION TO THE MOVIES I WROTE ABOUT ON AUG. 28-

1) PATEMA INVERTED– 2014.  Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “”Time of Eve director Yasuhiro Yoshiura is a perspective-twisting sci-fi adventure about two kids separated by opposite gravities. Patema lives in an underground world of tunnels, the long-abandoned ruins of a giant industrial complex.”8/29/14- Excellent reviews for this animated feature. TRDB.

2) SECOND OPINION: LAETRILE AT SLOAN-KETTERING-2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The War On Cancer, launched in the early 1970s, set the stage for a massive influx of new ideas in fighting the disease of cancer. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, America’s leading cancer research center at the time, was assigned the task of testing an unconventional therapy called “Laetrile” in an effort to curb the public’s “false hope” in the alleged “quack” therapy. Ralph W. Moss PhD, a young and eager science writer, was hired by Sloan-Kettering’s public relations department in 1974 to help brief the American public on the center’s contribution to the War On Cancer. One of his first assignments was to write a biography about Dr. Kanematsu Sugiura, one of the Center’s oldest and leading research scientists as well as the original co-inventor of chemotherapy.”

8/29/14- OK reviews by critics and audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

3) SHADOWS FROM MY PAST– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In 1940 Gita Weinrauch Kaufman escaped from Austria with her immediate family the day they were to be transported to Dachau Concentration Camp. More than 50 years later, she returned to Vienna with her husband and co-director, Curt Kaufman, to ask the question: Is present-day Austria truly different from the country from which she fled?”

8/29/14- Just 3 reviews– 2 up, including today’s NY Times and 1 down. It sounds interesting and I will try to see it. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) THE CALLING– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Detective Inspector Hazel Micallef’s (played by Susan Sarandon) quiet life is shattered by a series of gruesome murders performed by a religious madman following a deadly higher calling.”8/29/14- Poor reviews. TRDB.

2) LAST WEEKEND– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A matriarch (Patricia Clarkson) asks her adult sons to visit their gorgeous Lake Tahoe home for a final weekend before she sells it, but it quickly becomes a comical disaster.”

8/29/14- Poor reviews. TRDB.

3) THE NAKED ROOM– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The location: a pediatric therapist’s office. The characters: severely depressive child patients and their anguished parents. In Nuria Ibáñez’s fascinating and acclaimed documentary, the austere interior of a Mexico City hospital is the setting for a profoundly moving and educational film.”

8/29/14- I’ve seen 3 reviews- 2 down including the NY Times and 1 up.  TRDB.

4) THE STRANGE COLOR OF YOUR BODY’S TEARS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in a luscious art-nouveau apartment house in Brussels, this dizzying thriller begins with a businessman coming home to find his wife missing. But as he attempts to unravel the mystery, he finds himself plunged him into a surreal world.”

8/29/14- Poor reviews by critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

5) THROUGH A LENS DARKLY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary examines how black photographers have used the medium since its inception as an implement for social change. The film presents examples from Anthony Barboza, Deborah Willis, Glenn Ligon, Carrie Mae Weems and other notable figures.”

8/30/14- Weak reviews. TRDB.

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TO OPEN ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 5-

1) GOD HELP THE GIRL– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This musical by Stuart Murdoch — of the indie band Belle and Sebastian — follows Eve, whose gift for songwriting sees her through a troubled life. Her talent takes her to Glasgow, where she finally meets others who share her passion.”

8/25/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

2) LEVITATED MASS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 2012, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art installed Michael Heizer’s sculpture Levitated Mass — a 340-ton boulder perched atop a trench. This film traces the piece’s journey — from conception to the monolith’s 11-day transport from Riverside.”

8/25/14- Two reviews and they are both good. TRDB.

3) NO NO: A DOCKUMENTARY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Baseball history is rich with heroic lore, but no tale may be stranger than that of Pittsburgh Pirates ace Dock Ellis throwing a no-hitter while high on LSD. This absorbing documentary looks at his stormy career and the life he found after baseball.”

8/25/14- Very good early reviews. TRDB.

4) THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Told from two perspectives in two independent chapters, this engrossing drama depicts the dissolving union of Eleanor and Conor, who begin drifting apart in the wake of a tragic and traumatizing event.”

8/25/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

5) THE GREEN PRINCE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mosab Hassan Yousef, the son of a top leader in Palestine’s militant Hamas movement, spends a decade working as a mole for Israeli intelligence. In this gripping true-life drama, Yousef lives each day in immediate danger of torture and execution.”

8/25/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6) I AM ELEVEN– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Australian filmmaker Genevieve Bailey travelled the world for six years talking with 11-year-olds to compose this insightful, funny and moving documentary portrait of childhood. From an orphanage in India, to a single-parent household in inner-city Melbourne, to bathing with elephants in Thailand, I AM ELEVEN explores the lives and thoughts of children from 15 countries.”

8/25/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

1) BUT ALWAYS– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A snapshot of young love in the 1970s: two school friends, growing up in Beijing, both with different backgrounds and different families. As time progresses their relationship grows and so too do their families. Separated, they lose touch, only to rekindle the romance in New York City, but now having to face the fact that they both have established lives and established loves.”8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) FRONTERA- 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Set in the tumultuous Border area of Arizona and Mexico, Frontera follows the events that take place after a former Arizona Sheriff’s wife (Amy Madigan) is killed while riding on their Ranch property. It would appear a Mexican man (Michael Pena) crossing in to the US illegally is at fault. As former Sheriff (Ed Harris) and current Sheriff (Aden Young) search for answers, lives are changed forever.”

9/3/14- Professional reviews are mixed at best. TRDB.

3) IDENTICAL– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Identical twin brothers (both played by Blake Rayne) are separated at birth during the Great Depression. Their parents (Brian Geraghty, Amanda Crew) just cannot afford to give them both a life beyond poverty, so one is adopted by loving family. Despite their very different upbringings, the boys’ shared passion for music causes their lives to unknowingly intersect as they experience a powerful and mysterious connection often felt by twins.”

8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

4) MY OLD LADY– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Mathias Gold (Kevin Kline) is a down-on-his-luck New Yorker who inherits a Parisian apartment from his estranged father. But when he arrives in France to sell the vast domicile, he’s shocked to discover a live-in tenant who is not prepared to budge. His apartment is a viager – an ancient French real estate system with complex rules pertaining to its resale – and the feisty Englishwoman Mathilde Girard (Maggie Smith), who has lived in the apartment with her daughter Chloe.”

8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

5) BIRD PEOPLE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When two strangers yearning to escape their discontented lives eventually cross paths in a Paris airport hotel, neither of them is prepared for the series of surprises that follow their chance meeting.”

8/25/14- Just 3 reviews– 2 down and 1 up. We’ll see. TRDB.

6) TAKE ME TO THE RIVER– 2014. “Narrated by actor Terrence Howard, this engaging documentary centers on the legacy of the Memphis music scene as intergenerational artists — from bluesmen to rappers — are brought together to collaborate on a historic new album.”

8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

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TO OPEN ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 12-

1) FINDING FANNY– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Five Goans set off on a road trip in search of an old postman’s childhood love, Stefanie “Fanny” Fernandes, though nobody knows whether she’s alive or dead or just a figment of someone’s imagination.”

9/3/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) THE SKELETON TWINS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When near-death experiences on the same day motivate estranged twins Milo and Maggie to reunite, they’re forced to reevaluate their empty lives as they attempt to mend the long-broken bond between them.”

9/3/14- Reviews are very positive for this drama. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) LIFE OF CRIME– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After kidnapping a rich property developer’s wife and holding her for ransom, two small time crooks discover that their plan has a major flaw: their hostage’s philandering husband is in no rush to free her from captivity.”8/28/14- Mixed reviews with some good and some very bad. TRDB.

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) A FIVE STAR LIFE– Bethel. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A Five Star Life is the sophisticated and delightful story of one woman’s quest for personal and professional fulfillment set against some of the most stunning cities and opulent hotels of the world. Stylish and independent, Irene (Margherita Buy) is a single career woman in her forties with a job to die for. As a luxury hotel critic, she checks into the world’s finest establishments incognito to assess their standards.”7/18/14- Professional and audience reviews are mixed. TRDB.

2) THE LAST OF ROBIN HOOD– Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Kevin Kline stars as an aging Errol Flynn in this biopic that chronicles the womanizing actor’s relationship with teenager Beverly Aadland. The film examines Beverly’s mother’s role in the affair and the private demons behind Flynn’s reputation.”

9/3/14- Very weak professional reviews and audiences give mixed reviews- about equal up and down. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BOYHOOD– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/11/14- Richard Linklater has really done it. I enjoyed this movie very much and the continuity of the same people acting through the years made this film very real and certainly unique. TRDB.

2) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

3)  THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.”8/5/14- Reviews are weak from most critics. I’ve seen the coming attractions and I’d have to agree. TRDB.

4) CHEF– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

5) A MOST WANTED MAN– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/16/14- I found this movie confusing at first. The acting was great and propelled the movie which was more ordinary. This was Philip Seymour Hoffman’s last completed film before his untimely death. TRDB.

6) CALVARY– Jacob Burns. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”

7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/20/14- A wonderful drama with enough tension to keep you on edge. TRDB.

7) THE TRIP TO ITALY– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Following in the footsteps of the great romantic poets, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse the Italian countryside musing about life and love. Work enters the conversation as well in this largely improvised sequel to the roadtrip comedy “The Trip.”

8/15/14– Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/22/14- I enjoyed the movie but with the views and food from the Italian coast it’s hard not to. TRDB.

8) CANTINFLAS– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Cantinflas is the untold story of Mexico’s greatest and most beloved comedy film star of all time. From his humble origins on the small stage to the bright lights of Hollywood, Cantinflas became famous around the world – one joke at a time.”

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 28, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE TRIP TO ITALY– Comcast On-Demand

2) HATESHIP LOVESHIP– Netflix

3) THREE WORLDS– Netflix Streaming

4) AFTERNOON OF A FAUN: TANAQUIL LE CLERCQ– From PBS but also available on Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE TRIP TO ITALY- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Following in the footsteps of the great romantic poets, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse the Italian countryside musing about life and love. Work enters the conversation as well in this largely improvised sequel to the roadtrip comedy “The Trip.”8/15/14– Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/22/14- I enjoyed the movie but with the views and food from the Italian coast it’s hard not to. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

2) HATESHIP LOVESHIP– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hired to look after an elderly man and his teenage granddaughter, a dowdy caretaker finds herself drawn to the girl’s ne’er-do-well father, never realizing that the subversive teen has been sending her tender e-mails in her father’s name.”

4/11/14- Poor reviews in general but the NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.

8/24/14-  I enjoyed this movie very much. Great acting by the leading characters and a sweet tale even if it helps to suspend reality just a bit. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THREE WORLDS– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A fatal hit-and-run accident leaves a man with crushing guilt, a grieving wife with anger and a witness caught between the two. As tragedy connects the disparate lives of three people, each must come to terms with a new reality and one another.”

6/21/13- This movie got a good review in today’s NY Times. Others haven’t been as good. TRDB.

8/26/14- I enjoyed this movie very much but not that easy to watch. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) AFTERNOON OF A FAUN: TANAQUIL LE CLERCQ– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Of the great ballerinas, Tanaquil Le Clercq may have been the most transcendent. She mesmerized viewers and choreographers alike – her elongated, race-horse physique became the new prototype for the great George Balanchine. The muse to both Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, they loved her as a dancer and a woman. Balanchine married her and Robbins created his famous Afternoon of a Faun for Tanny. She was the foremost dancer of her day until it suddenly all stopped. At age 27, Tanny was struck down by polio and paralyzed. She never danced again.”

8/26/14- A wonderful, thoughtful documentary with plenty of archival footage. TRDB. PBS but also available on Netflix Streaming.

Not Recommended-

1) STARRED UP– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this gritty drama, Jack O’Connell gives a standout performance as a teenage offender whose violent temper gets him moved to an adult prison, where he finds a different breed of inmate — including his long-incarcerated father.”

8/25/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/27/14- This movie, without sub-titles, is, as far as I’m concerned, WORTHLESS. I had to turn it off as I could not understand most of what they were saying. TRDB.

2) ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Depressed over the state of the human world, underground musician Adam — a vampire — hooks up again with Eve, his mysterious lover of many centuries. But the antics of Eve’s spirited little sister threaten to destroy their eternal love.”

4/11/14– Good reviews for this movie and I’ll probably see it despite recently saying that I’ll never see a vampire movie. TRDB.

8/22/14- I never should have turned this on and I happily turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 2-

1) DRAFT DAY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the day of the NFL player draft, Cleveland general manager Sonny Weaver trades up to get the first pick in this breezy sports drama. And while his decision may save football in his city, it just might cost him his girlfriend … and his team.”8/16/14- OK reviews from the critics and even better from audiences. TRDB.

2) AMERICAN PROMISE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A detailed examination of race, education and opportunity in America, this documentary follows two African American boys — and their parents — for 12 years, starting as they enter kindergarten at a prestigious private school.”

10/18/13- Reviews for this film are highly positive but in today’s NY Times the reviewer felt that the film was exploitive and did not know what to make of it. TRDB.

3) NIGHT MOVES– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “With their collective eye fixed on blowing up a hydroelectric dam, a pair of young environmentalists enlist the help of an ex-military explosives expert to carry out a dangerous act of eco-terrorism.”5/30/14- Very good critical review but less so by audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “On his way to interview the subject of his latest project, a documentary filmmaker has a chance encounter with a weeping young woman on a train, leading him into a world where the line between fantasy and reality is blurred.”8/16/14- I’ve seen just 2 reviews and they are both negative. TRDB.

2) A TEACHER– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A popular young high school teacher engaged in a passionate secret affair with one of her students gets pulled deeper into their mutual fantasy world, even as the danger of discovery threatens their relationship.”

9/6/13- A poor review in today’s NY Times and poor reviews in general. TRDB.

6/10/14- This movie deserved the poor reviews that it got. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST FRIDAY, AUG. 22 IN ADDITION TO THE MOVIES I WROTE ABOUT ON AUG. 21-

1) 14 BLADES– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the age of the Ming Dynasty, Qinlong is the best of the emperor’s elite assassin squad known as the Jinyiwei. When evil court eunuch Jia deposes the sovereign, Qinlong is called to action. But he’s soon betrayed, becoming a hunted man.”8/22/14- Mixed reviews in general. The NY Times liked it. TRDB.

2) KINK– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Take a peek into the secret world of sex, fetishes and bondage with this eye-opening documentary that tells the story of the people who work at San Francisco’s Kink.com, the world’s largest producer of BDSM porn.”

8/22/14- Good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it as well. TRDB.

3) MAY IN THE SUMMER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “May travels to Jordan for her wedding to Ziad, a fellow Arab American, but faces the disapproval of her mother, a converted evangelical Christian who doesn’t want her daughter marrying a Muslim man.”

8/22/14- Mixed reviews from critics and good ones from audiences. TRDB.

4) THE ONE I LOVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confronted with the potential end of their marriage, Ethan and Sophie take off for a weekend together, hoping to negotiate their future. When they reach their idyllic destination, however, the couple strolls into a bizarre new brand of trouble.”

8/12/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/15/14- A very clever story that works for the most part. Also a bit tedious at times trying to figure out who is who but overall I liked it. TRDB.

5) SALVO- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Salvo is a dead-cold Mafia hit man who invades a rival gangster’s home to off him and encounters his target’s sister, the attractive but blind Rita. Unwilling to take Rita’s life, Salvo takes her hostage instead, growing ever more fascinated by her.”

8/22/14- Mostly good reviews from the critics and less so from audiences. The NY Times liked it. TRDB.

6) SEE YOU NEXT TUESDAY– 2014- Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Mona (Eleanore Pienta) is a mentally unbalanced and very pregnant young woman in a hideous orange coat. Without any friends to speak of and alienated from her hoochie mama coworkers at a crummy Brooklyn supermarket, Mona maintains a strangely close relationship with her campy, recovering alcoholic mother May (Dana Eskelson).

8/22-14- I’ve seen just 3 professional reviews and they were all good. Audiences have liked it as well. TRDB.

7) TO BE TAKEI– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Proving there’s life after “Star Trek,” this documentary profiles the career of actor George Takei, who played Lieutenant Sulu in the series and later became a well-known advocate for gay rights, backed by a legion of enduring fans.”

8/22/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

Not recommended-

1) IF I STAY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “While trying to choose between love and a musical career, 17-year-old Mia Hall finds her life upended by a tragic car crash that puts her in a coma. As she lies unconscious, Mia has a vision of her life that leads her to another crossroads.”

8/22/14- Poor reviews from most critics. Audiences have liked it, however. TRDB.

2) THE POSSESSION OF MICHAEL KING– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After the trauma of his wife’s unexpected death, filmmaker Michael King decides to revisit the question of supernatural forces in life. But he gets more than he bargained for when he makes himself the subject of a movie that explores the occult.” 8/22/14- Poor reviews all around including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

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TO OPEN ON FRIDAY, AUG. 29-

1) CANOPY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being forced to bail out over the jungle in Singapore, a World War II fighter pilot ends up suspended by his chute in tall trees — and that’s just the beginning of the problems he’s facing if he hopes to survive.”

8/25/14- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) THE NOTEBOOK– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “During the maelstrom of World War II, two twin boys are exiled from their urban home and sent to the country to live with their grandmother. Soon after their arrival, the boys find out that their alcoholic granny is loathed by her entire village.”

8/25/14- Just 2 reviews– both positive. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) STARRED UP- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this gritty drama, Jack O’Connell gives a standout performance as a teenage offender whose violent temper gets him moved to an adult prison, where he finds a different breed of inmate — including his long-incarcerated father.”

8/25/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/27/14- This movie, without sub-titles, is, as far as I’m concerned, WORTHLESS. I had to turn it off as I could not understand most of what they were saying. TRDB.

Not Sure Yet-

1) CANTINFLAS– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Cantinflas is the untold story of Mexico’s greatest and most beloved comedy film star of all time. From his humble origins on the small stage to the bright lights of Hollywood, Cantinflas became famous around the world – one joke at a time.”

8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) THE LAST OF ROBIN HOOD– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Kevin Kline stars as an aging Errol Flynn in this biopic that chronicles the womanizing actor’s relationship with teenager Beverly Aadland. The film examines Beverly’s mother’s role in the affair and the private demons behind Flynn’s reputation.”

8/25/14- I’ve seen just 3 reviews- 1 up and 2 down. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) JEALOUSY- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Clothilde is consumed with jealousy when Louis, her actor boyfriend and father of their 8-year-old daughter, leaves her for Claudia. When Claudia inevitably begins cheating on Louis, Clothilde tries hard to find some satisfaction in the irony.”8/15/14- Good reviews by critics. Audiences have been mixed. TRDB.

2) WHITEY: USA VS. JAMES J. BULGER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Acclaimed documentarian Joe Berlinger lays bare the real story of South Boston crime boss James “Whitey” Bulger, including his sensational 2013 trial.”6/27/14- A very good review in today’s NY Times and OK reviews by other critics. Some really bad ones too. Audiences have liked it more. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE TRIP TO ITALY- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Following in the footsteps of the great romantic poets, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse the Italian countryside musing about life and love. Work enters the conversation as well in this largely improvised sequel to the roadtrip comedy “The Trip.”8/15/14– Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/22/14- I enjoyed the movie but with the views and food from the Italian coast it’s hard not to. TRDB.

2) TO BE TAKEI– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Proving there’s life after “Star Trek,” this documentary profiles the career of actor George Takei, who played Lieutenant Sulu in the series and later became a well-known advocate for gay rights, backed by a legion of enduring fans.”

8/22/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THE TRIP TO ITALY- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Following in the footsteps of the great romantic poets, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse the Italian countryside musing about life and love. Work enters the conversation as well in this largely improvised sequel to the roadtrip comedy “The Trip.”8/15/14– Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/22/14- I enjoyed the movie but with the views and food from the Italian coast it’s hard not to. TRDB.

2) CANTINFLAS– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Cantinflas is the untold story of Mexico’s greatest and most beloved comedy film star of all time. From his humble origins on the small stage to the bright lights of Hollywood, Cantinflas became famous around the world – one joke at a time.”

8/25/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

3) LIFE OF CRIME–  Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After kidnapping a rich property developer’s wife and holding her for ransom, two small time crooks discover that their plan has a major flaw: their hostage’s philandering husband is in no rush to free her from captivity.”

8/28/14- Mixed reviews with some good and some very bad. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BOYHOOD- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

2) CALVARY- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”

7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”

7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

4) THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.”

8/5/14- Reviews are weak from most critics. I’ve seen the coming attractions and I’d have to agree. TRDB.

5) CHEF– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6) A MOST WANTED MAN– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/16/14- I found this movie confusing at first. The acting was great and propelled the movie which was more ordinary. This was Philip Seymour Hoffman’s last completed film before his untimely death. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

7) LUCY– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this action-thriller set in Taiwan, a young woman forced to become a drug mule for the mob develops superhuman abilities when the narcotics she’s carrying in her stomach accidentally leak into her system.”

7/25/14- Weak reviews but I’ll see it anyway because I like Luc Besson (the director) and Scarlett Johansson. TRDB.

8/3/14- Science fiction is not my thing but all in all this movie was OK. Some interesting effects and some eye candy (Scarlett Johansson) brought the movie up a few notches. TRDB.

8) BEGIN AGAIN– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moving to New York City proves disastrous for a young singer after her boyfriend yields to the temptation of another woman. But opportunity comes knocking when she meets a recently axed music producer looking to launch her career — and save his own.”

6/27/14– Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

7/6/14- A well done fun movie with great music and very likable characters. I liked it very much. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 21, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE ONE I LOVE– Comcast On-Demand

2) A MOST WANTED MAN– At the Theater

3) BREATHE IN– Netflix

4) THE SHORT GAME– Netflix Streaming

5) CALVARY- At the Theater

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) A MOST WANTED MAN- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/16/14- I found this movie confusing at first. The acting was great and propelled the movie which was more ordinary. This was Philip Seymour Hoffman’s last completed film before his untimely death. TRDB.

2) CALVARY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”

7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/20/14- A wonderful drama with enough tension to keep you on edge. See it! TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE ONE I LOVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confronted with the potential end of their marriage, Ethan and Sophie take off for a weekend together, hoping to negotiate their future. When they reach their idyllic destination, however, the couple strolls into a bizarre new brand of trouble.”8/12/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/15/14- A very clever story that works for the most part. Also a bit tedious at times trying to figure out who is who but overall I liked it. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

2) BREATHE IN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Music teacher Keith has his mind focused on the past when he and his wife agree to welcome a foreign exchange student into their household. But the arrival of a British girl who’s the same age as their daughter has a way of shaking up the present.”

3/28/14- An OK review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews from others and from audiences as well. TRDB.

8/17/14- Excellent acting is at the core of this movie that deals with a theme we’ve all heard before. I enjoyed it never-the-less. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THE SHORT GAME– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary follows eight of the world’s best 7-year-old golfers, who convene in Pinehurst, N.C., to compete for a championship. Their interweaving stories provide a charming look into the unconventional, ultracompetitive world of junior golf.”

9/4/13- Few early reviews but they are very good. TRDB.

9/20/13- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/19/14- As much of a documentary about the parents as the kids and well done. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

Not Recommended–

1) ROAD TO PALOMA– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After meting out his brand of justice to avenge his mother’s rape and murder, biker Robert Wolf goes on the lam, with the FBI in pursuit. As Wolf heads to the Grand Tetons to scatter his mom’s ashes, he faces some unexpected bends in the road.”

7/11/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

8/16/14- I can’t believe that this trash actually got good reviews. I turned it off after the obligatory 18 minutes. TRDB. Netflix.

2) GO FOR SISTERS– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just out of prison, Fontanye discovers that her parole officer is Bernice, a former friend. Bernice takes it easy on Fontanye, and in turn, the ex-con promises to help find Bernice’s son Rodney, who disappeared near the Mexican border.”

10/16/13- A few reviews and they are mixed. TRDB.

11/8/13- The NY Times said that this movie had good characters and poor story. TRDB.

8/20/14- As the Times said– weak story saved by the characters. You can skip it. TRDB. Netflix.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 26-

1) YOUNG & BEAUTIFUL– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Told over the course of four seasons with four songs, this lyrical film portrays the coming of age of a 17-year-old French girl as she experiences a sexual awakening, explores love and goes on a quest to understand her own identity.”4/25/14- Fairly good early reviews but the NY Times did not care for it. TRDB.

4/29/14- An interesting movie that’s worth seeing but certainly not one of Francois Ozon’s best. TRDB.

2) AFTERMATH– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two decades after migrating to America, Chicagoan Franek returns to his native Poland only to find things deeply amiss in his family and town. With his brother, Jozek, who stayed behind, Franek sets out to discover the community’s collective secret.”11/1/13- Mixed reviews by the critics but audiences have liked it. The review in today’s NY Times is ambiguous but I thought it was good. TRDB.

2/15/14- I was thoroughly engrossed and on the edge of my seat for the entire movie. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) THE DOUBLE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jesse Eisenberg plays the dual roles of a timid office worker and his charismatic doppelganger in this cinematic adaptation of a Dostoevsky tale. First spotted on the bus, then at work, Simon’s double may share his looks, but he’s no carbon copy.”5/9/14- Very good early reviews. TRDB.

5/9/14- This movie seemed more like a creative bad dream than anything else. I did watch the whole thing. TRDB.

2) AGE OF UPRISING: THE LEGEND OF MICHAEL HOHLHAAS- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Michael Kohlhaas, a horse merchant and family man in 16th-century France, is betrayed by a nobleman and decides to fight back. Against impossible odds, he gathers an army to battle the French status quo and restore his honor.”

6/2/14- Fair reviews noted on IMDB only– weak reviews elsewhere. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPENED ON AUG. 15 IN ADDITION TO THE MOVIES I WROTE ABOUT ON AUG. 14-

1) FRANK- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An aspiring musician joins a band of eccentrics led by an enigmatic singer — who wears a fake head — and his unstable girlfriend. Creative tension mounts as the group retreats to the woods to cut an album.”8/15/14- Excellent reviews all around. TRDB.

2) ABUSE OF WEAKNESS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this semi-autobiographical tale from helmer Catherine Breillat, Isabelle Huppert plays a director who returns to her craft after suffering a debilitating stroke. Regrettably, the con man she casts in her film comes to see her as his biggest mark.”

8/15/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) THE ADMIRAL: ROARING CURRENTS– 2014. “Bringing to life the heroic saga of Korean admiral Yi Sun-shin, this seagoing thriller recounts his remarkable battle against a massive Japanese armada in 1597. With the odds clearly stacked against him, Yi devises a deadly trap for the enemy.”

8/15/14- Just 2 reviews as of now– 1 up and 1 down. Audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.

4) DINOSAUR 13– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “While fossil-digging in South Dakota, dinosaur expert Peter Larson and his team made a find that would transform paleontology. This engrossing documentary details the legal fights that followed their discovery of the first complete Tyrannosaurus rex.”

8/15/14- Good reviews for this documentary from critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

5) JEALOUSY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Clothilde is consumed with jealousy when Louis, her actor boyfriend and father of their 8-year-old daughter, leaves her for Claudia. When Claudia inevitably begins cheating on Louis, Clothilde tries hard to find some satisfaction in the irony.”

8/15/14- Good reviews by critics. Audiences have been mixed. TRDB.

6) LEVEL 5- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In Chris Marker’s futuristic reverie, game-developer Laura creates a video game based on the WWII Battle of Okinawa. Laura searches the Internet for information on the battle, and interviews Japanese experts and witnesses.”

8/15/14- Very good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7) MOEBIUS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mother, father and son take dysfunction to a new level in this dialogue-free film that focuses on the calamity that occurs in the wake of an affair. When Mom decides to cut off her son’s penis to punish her cheating husband, chaos and violence bloom.”

8/15/14- This movie has actually received good reviews. Go figure! TRDB.

8) RED HOLLYWOOD– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Film essayist Thom Andersen (Los Angeles Plays Itself) collaborated with film historian/theoretician Noël Burch on Red Hollywood, a documentary adaptation of their essay “Les Communistes de Hollywood.” Andersen and Burch examine the work of the “Hollywood Ten,” and other filmmakers and artists impacted by the infamous House Committee on Un-American Activities.”

8/15/14- I’ve seen just 3 reviews– 2 up including the NY Times and 1 down. TRDB.

9) THE TRIP TO ITALY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Following in the footsteps of the great romantic poets, Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse the Italian countryside musing about life and love. Work enters the conversation as well in this largely improvised sequel to the roadtrip comedy “The Trip.”

8/15/14– Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

10) WE ARE MARI PEPA– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A teen punk garage band suffers its first crisis when their real lives intervene and they have problems conceiving of a follow-up to their first song. Problems with girls, parents and jobs threaten to squelch their raucous rock ‘n’ roll attitude.”

8/15/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

11) A WILL FOR THE WOODS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this affecting documentary, a man suffering from terminal lymphoma makes plans for a “green” burial, eschewing the traditional funeral-industry practices of interment and cremation to help preserve the environment.”

8/15/14- Very good reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) COLDWATER- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This stark drama follows troubled teen Brad Lunders after he’s spirited away — at his parents’ behest — to a remote juvenile reform camp, where he finds himself in a dehumanizing situation that results in a battle for mental and physical survival.”

8/15/14- Poor reviews in general but a few good ones mixed in. TRDB.

2) THE GIVER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a future society called The Community, pain, war and disease have been eradicated, as have individuality and free will. When a teenager named Jonas learns the truth about the real world, he must decide whether to reveal all or remain quiet.”

8/15/14- Poor reviews. TRDB.

3) I AM HAPPINESS ON EARTH– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “From director Julián Hernández comes this erotic drama about a love triangle involving a famous filmmaker who blurs the line between reality and the process of artistic creation — and soon finds himself on both sides of the camera.”

8/15/14- Awful reviews. TRDB.

4) 37: A FINAL PROMISE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Guilt-ridden for years over his brother’s death, rock musician Adam Webb decided long ago to end his life on his 37th birthday. But his resolve begins to ebb when he falls in love with a terminally ill woman harboring a secret of her own.”

8/15/14- Poor reviews!! TRDB.

5) THE WORD– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The film follows a single father, Tom Hawkins (Kevin O’Donnell) whose life is destroyed when his son is kidnapped and murdered. When informed by the FBI, led by agent Mike Sheehy (Naughton), that the homicide appears to be part of a string of crimes carried out by an enigmatic, religious sect, Tom decides to take matters into his own hands.”

8/15/14- Terrible reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

TO OPEN ON AUG. 22-

1) IF I STAY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “While trying to choose between love and a musical career, 17-year-old Mia Hall finds her life upended by a tragic car crash that puts her in a coma. As she lies unconscious, Mia has a vision of her life that leads her to another crossroads.”8/12/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) K2: SIREN OF THE HIMALAYAS– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This breathtaking film follows an historic attempt to summit the world’s most challenging peak on the 100-year anniversary of the Duke of Abruzzi’s landmark K2 expedition in 1909. World-class alpinists Fabrizio Zangrilli and Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner team up with veteran climbers Jake Meyer and Chris Szymiec in a dangerous foray of high altitude mountaineering.”

8/12/14- Just 2 reviews but both were very good. TRDB.

3) KABBALAH ME- 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Kabbalah Me is a personal journey into the esoteric spiritual phenomenon known as Kabbalah. In Kabbalah Me, director Steven Bram embarks on a spiritual investigation that leads him to reunite with the Hasidic branch of his family and connect to the community of Judaic scholarship. ”

8/12/14- Only 1 review and she called it “sweetly odd” but it sounds interesting to me. TRDB.

4) LOVE IS STRANGE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After 28 years together, Ben and George finally get hitched. But when the marriage raises controversy at the school where George works, he’s fired. Unable to afford their New York City apartment, the couple is forced to live apart.”

8/12/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5) THE ONE I LOVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confronted with the potential end of their marriage, Ethan and Sophie take off for a weekend together, hoping to negotiate their future. When they reach their idyllic destination, however, the couple strolls into a bizarre new brand of trouble.”

8/12/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6) WHEN THE GAME STANDS TALL– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The journey of legendary football coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel), who took the De La Salle High School Spartans from obscurity to a 151-game winning streak that shattered all records for any American sport.”

8/12/14- No reviews to judge by but it could be an interesting docudrama. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse

1) WHITEY: USA VS. JAMES J. BULGER- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Acclaimed documentarian Joe Berlinger lays bare the real story of South Boston crime boss James “Whitey” Bulger, including his sensational 2013 trial.”6/27/14- A very good review in today’s NY Times and OK reviews by other critics. Some really bad ones too. Audiences have liked it more. TRDB.

2) CODE BLACK– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Doctor and filmmaker Ryan McGarry takes viewers inside the world of a public hospital — his own — for a close-up look at the ailing medical system.”6/18/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) DINOSAUR 13– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “While fossil-digging in South Dakota, dinosaur expert Peter Larson and his team made a find that would transform paleontology. This engrossing documentary details the legal fights that followed their discovery of the first complete Tyrannosaurus rex.”8/15/14- Good reviews for this documentary from critics and audiences as well. TRDB.

2) THE DOG- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This up-close documentary surveys the life of John Wojtowicz, whose botched robbery of a Brooklyn bank in 1972 inspired the film Dog Day Afternoon. After serving his time, Wojtowicz became an active figure in New York’s gay liberation movement.’

7/28/14– Good early reviews although one of the positive critics said that it was entertaining but wondered why anyone would care if it was made or not. TRDB.

3) THE ONE I LOVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confronted with the potential end of their marriage, Ethan and Sophie take off for a weekend together, hoping to negotiate their future. When they reach their idyllic destination, however, the couple strolls into a bizarre new brand of trouble.”

8/12/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/15/14- A very clever story that works for the most part. Also a bit tedious at times trying to figure out who is who but overall I liked it. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) COLDWATER- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This stark drama follows troubled teen Brad Lunders after he’s spirited away — at his parents’ behest — to a remote juvenile reform camp, where he finds himself in a dehumanizing situation that results in a battle for mental and physical survival.”

8/15/14- Poor reviews in general but a few good ones mixed in. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) LAND HO!- Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a bid to gain life perspective, retired Mitch persuades his ex-brother-in-law to join him on a journey through the frigid landscapes of Iceland. This freewheeling road comedy follows the pair through a series of encounters that changes them both.”7/11/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1)THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.”8/5/14- Reviews are weak from most critics. I’ve seen the coming attractions and I’d have to agree. TRDB.

2) BOYHOOD- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”

7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns,Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”

7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

4) CALVARY- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”

7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

5) A MOST WANTED MAN– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8/16/14- I found this movie confusing at first. The acting was great and propelled the movie which was more ordinary. This was Philip Seymour Hoffman’s last completed film before his untimely death. TRDB.

6) CHEF– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

7) WHAT IF– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wallace meets Chantry an animator and form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. There is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?”

8/8/14- The movie sounds corny but has received good reviews. The NY Times didn’t care for it. TRDB.

8) LUCY– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this action-thriller set in Taiwan, a young woman forced to become a drug mule for the mob develops superhuman abilities when the narcotics she’s carrying in her stomach accidentally leak into her system.”

7/25/14- Weak reviews but I’ll see it anyway because I like Luc Besson (the director) and Scarlett Johansson. TRDB.

8/3/14- Science fiction is not my thing but all in all this movie was OK. Some interesting effects and some eye candy (Scarlett Johansson) brought the movie up a few notches. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 14, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) BOXING GYM– Netflix

2) BOYHOOD- At the Theater

3) BEFORE MIDNIGHT– Netflix

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) BOYHOOD– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

8/11/14- Richard Linklater has really done it. I enjoyed this movie very much and the continuity with the same actors made this film very real. What a project! TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) BOXING GYM– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Acclaimed documentary director Frederick Wiseman brings his cameras to Lord’s Gym in Austin, Texas, where ex-puncher Richard Lord works with a diverse crowd of amateur boxing enthusiasts spanning every age, ethnicity and occupation. Wiseman’s signature style relies little on interviews and instead focuses on the rituals of training and the disciplined, determined approach of students and coaches to mastering the precise, brutal art of gloved combat.”8/8/14– An interesting documentary that I liked, especially the diversity of the boxers. TRDB. Netflix.

2) BICYCLING WITH MOLIERE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A TV celebrity faces an uphill battle as he tries to persuade his old pal, once-famous actor Serge Tanneur, to take on the lead in a Moliere play, no easy task considering the reclusive Serge has given up acting and burns every script he receives.”

7/18/14- Fairly good reviews by the critics and 50/50 by audiences. TRDB.

8/10/14- I found the movie insufferable and finally turned it off. It reminded me of “My Dinner With Andre,” which is on my “worst” list. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) BEFORE MIDNIGHT– 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Before Midnight is an upcoming American romance drama film and the sequel to Before Sunrise (1995) and Before Sunset (2004). Like its predecessors, the film was directed by Richard Linklater. As with the previous film, Linklater shares screenplay credit with both actors from the movies, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy”

5/13/13- Uniformly excellent reviews. TRDB.

5/24/13- An excellent review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/11/13- An excellent movie that beautifully depicted the tensions that exist between spouses even when they deeply love each other. TRDB.

8/14/14- I just saw this for the 2nd. time and liked it as much as before. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 19-

1) FADING GIGOLO– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Middle-aged Fioravante and Murray are an unlikely gigolo and pimp in this farce about two cash-strapped friends who turn to the sex trade to make ends meet. Their new enterprise is fruitful, but things get complicated when romance enters the picture.”4/12/14- Mixed reviews but more positive than negative. I’ll see it just to see Woody Allen in a movie that’s not his. TRDB.

4/18/14- A good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5/1/14- I really liked this movie which was written by John Turturo and had to be written with Woody Allen in mind. TRDB.

2) ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Depressed over the state of the human world, underground musician Adam — a vampire — hooks up again with Eve, his mysterious lover of many centuries. But the antics of Eve’s spirited little sister threaten to destroy their eternal love.”

4/11/14– Good reviews for this movie and I’ll probably see it despite recently saying that I’ll never see a vampire movie. TRDB.

NOT RECOMMENDED-

1) GO FOR SISTERS– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Just out of prison, Fontanye discovers that her parole officer is Bernice, a former friend. Bernice takes it easy on Fontanye, and in turn, the ex-con promises to help find Bernice’s son Rodney, who disappeared near the Mexican border.”

10/16/13- A few reviews and they are mixed. TRDB.

11/8/13- The NY Times said that this movie had good characters and poor story. TRDB.

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OPENED AUG. 8 IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON AUG. 7-

1) FIFI HOWLS FROM HAPPINESS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dubbed the Persian Picasso, Iranian artist Bahman Mohassess delighted the art world with his provocative work but ended up at odds with his country’s political leaders. This documentary finds him self-exiled in Italy, where he tells his story.”

8/8/14- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) NO CAMERAS ALLOWED– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This coming-of-age documentary chronicles the journey of James Marcus Haney, who’s obsessed with rock music and rock groups — a fascination that draws him into the world behind the stage when he joins one band’s cross-country tour.”

8/8/14- Just 2 reviews– 2 up (including the NY Times) and 1 down. TRDB.

3) WHAT IF- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wallace meets Chantry an animator and form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. There is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?”

8/8/14- The movie sounds corny but has received good reviews. The NY Times didn’t care for it. TRDB.

4) WHAT NOW? REMIND ME– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this unflinching video diary, Portuguese filmmaker Joaquim Pinto documents his struggle with HIV over the course of a year-long clinical trial. The moving and funny film captures Pinto’s indomitable spirit, home life and creative impulse.”

8/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

1) ABOUT ALEX– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a troubled young man attempts to commit suicide, six of his former college classmates plan a weekend reunion to help him deal with his dark feelings. But their sojourn turns into an emotional minefield as old issues begin to resurface.”8/8/14- Poor reviews. TRDB.

2) AFTER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Nora Valentino, a woman whose husband, Mitch loves her more than anything in the world. So much so that he, along with his four children and sister-in-law have gone to obscene lengths to hide a horror too painful for Nora to bear.”

8/8/14- Miserable reviews. TRDB.

3) INTO THE STORM– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a wave of powerful tornadoes bears down on the town of Silverton, a band of high school students tries to capture the destruction on videotape. As nature’s raw power overwhelms everything in its path, the residents hang on for dear life.”

8/8/14- Poor reviews. TRDB.

4) THE MAID’S ROOM– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After going to work for a wealthy American family as a maid, undocumented immigrant Drina becomes privy to the household’s darkest secret. She wants to report the incident to authorities, but her alien status and powerful boss conspire to stop her.”

8/8/14- Bad reviews- even the few that were OK were critical. TRDB.

5) DEEPSEA CHALLENGE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This epic documentary chronicles director James Cameron’s solo dive on March 26, 2012, as he pilots a submersible seven miles down to the lowest point of the Mariana Trench to gather data for scientific research.”

8/8/14- Very bad reviews from most critics, calling it a vanity project for James Cameron. TRDB.

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DUE TO OPEN ON AUG. 15-

1) FORT McCoy– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Unable to serve in World War II because of a heart condition, a barber moves his family adjacent to a Wisconsin army base and prisoner-of-war camp to provide his services. But even in rural America — far from the frontline — the war finds victims.”8/7/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

COMCAST ON- DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE MAID’S ROOM– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After going to work for a wealthy American family as a maid, undocumented immigrant Drina becomes privy to the household’s darkest secret. She wants to report the incident to authorities, but her alien status and powerful boss conspire to stop her.”8/8/14- Bad reviews- even the few that were OK were critical. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) CALVARY- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) WHAT IF– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wallace meets Chantry an animator and form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. There is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?”

8/8/14- The movie sounds corny but has received good reviews. The NY Times didn’t care for it. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1)THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.”8/5/14- Reviews are weak from most critics. I’ve seen the coming attractions and I’d have to agree. TRDB.

2) BOYHOOD- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”

7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) A MOST WANTED MAN– Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”

7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

5) CHEF– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

6) A MOST WANTED MAN– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7) GET ON UP– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This powerhouse biopic traces the legendary James Brown’s rocky road from humble origins to superstardom as the Godfather of Soul. The film also reveals the demons — drugs, violence and near-bankruptcy — that haunted Brown on his rise to fame.”

7/31/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

8) LUCY– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this action-thriller set in Taiwan, a young woman forced to become a drug mule for the mob develops superhuman abilities when the narcotics she’s carrying in her stomach accidentally leak into her system.”

7/25/14- Weak reviews but I’ll see it anyway because I like Luc Besson and Scarlett Johansson. TRDB.

8/3/14- Science fiction is not my thing but all in all this movie was OK. Some interesting effects and some eye candy (Scarlett Johansson) brought the movie up a few notches. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 7, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) LUCY- At the Theater

2) ON MY WAY– Netflix

3) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– At the Theater

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) LUCY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this action-thriller set in Taiwan, a young woman forced to become a drug mule for the mob develops superhuman abilities when the narcotics she’s carrying in her stomach accidentally leak into her system.”7/25/14- Weak reviews but I’ll see it anyway because I like Luc Besson and Scarlett Johansson. TRDB.8/3/14- Science fiction is not my thing but all in all this movie was OK. Some interesting effects and some eye candy (Scarlett Johansson) brought the movie up a few notches. TRDB.

2) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”

7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

8/4/14- As mentioned above, there have been many negative reviews of this movie but I found it a delightful drama obviously NOT meant to be  a comedy. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) IT FELT LIKE LOVE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Determined to explore her budding sexuality, 14-year-old Lila develops romantic delusions about an older guy that soon turn to obsession. Soon, her string of lies leads her down a dark path that transforms her from predator to prey.”3/21/14- Very good reviews and the NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.8/1/14- I don’t know what all of these critics were thinking. This film was about as shallow as can be with not a single original thought. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) NYMPHOMANIAC: VOLUME 2- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The second half of Lars von Trier’s epic follows self-diagnosed nymphomaniac Joe as she chronicles her adult years to the man who saved her from a beating. Her tales include new conquests, both male and female, in her search for fulfillment.”

4/4/14- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. TRDB.

8/3/14- After saying that Volume 1 was so bad that I would never see Volume 2 someone convinced me to see it. I turned this one off too. TRDB. Netflix.

3) ON MY WAY– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Prompted by a post-midlife crisis, Bettie goes out for cigarettes and decides to keep on driving, abandoning the restaurant she owns. But the farther she gets from her previous life, the closer she gets to reinvention.”

3/14/14- Good reviews in general. The NY Times liked it. TRDB.

8/4/14- A charming French drama made more charming by the great Catherine DeNeuve. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 12-

1) LOCKE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Over the space of 90 minutes, Ivan Locke’s life spins out of control via a series of phone calls made while he drives down the highway to London. On the brink of a career-making moment, Ivan faces a personal decision that could cost him everything.”4/25/14- Very good reviews all around. TRDB.5/5/14- A very good thriller with an unconventional ending. TRDB.

2) THE RAILWAY MAN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Decades after his brutal captivity under the Japanese during World War II, Eric Lomax still has nightmares about the ordeal. But when he unexpectedly meets and falls for Patti, a bizarre coincidence brings his past back into focus.”

4/11/14- Mixed reviews for this war related movie, more good than bad. TRDB.

4/18/14- A good movie that dealt well with revenge and reconciliation. I could have done well without the amount of torture portrayed. TRDB.

3) DANCING IN JAFFA– Synopsis by Netflix. “Confident that dance will dissolve political and cultural differences, celebrated ballroom dancer Pierre Dulaine returns to his hometown of Jaffa, Israel, after years abroad and teaches 11-year-old Jewish and Palestinian Israelis to dance together.”

4/11/14- Good reviews all around although the NY Times was not as enthusiastic as others. TRDB.

4/17/14- A very good documentary that offers a meager glimmer of hope for the future of the region. TRDB.

4) HATESHIP LOVESHIP– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hired to look after an elderly man and his teenage granddaughter, a dowdy caretaker finds herself drawn to the girl’s ne’er-do-well father, never realizing that the subversive teen has been sending her tender e-mails in her father’s name.”

4/11/14- Poor reviews in general but the NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.

5) BREATHE IN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Music teacher Keith has his mind focused on the past when he and his wife agree to welcome a foreign exchange student into their household. But the arrival of a British girl who’s the same age as their daughter has a way of shaking up the present.”

3/28/14- An OK review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews from others and from audiences as well. TRDB.

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OPENED ON AUGUST 1-

1) FINDING FELA– 2014. “Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney explores the life of Fela Kuti, whose seminal Afrobeat sound made him a music icon and political lightning rod. Performance footage and interviews are interspersed with scenes from the hit Broadway bio Fela!”8/1/14- OK but mixed reviews– more positive than negative. TRDB.2) RICH HILL– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two filmmaker cousins return to their decaying hometown of Rich Hill, Mo., to film this affecting documentary about the lives of three local boys. Each of the youngsters reveals his hopes and dreams amid a landscape of poverty and desperation.”

8/1/14- Fairly good reviews although the NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

3) THE STRANGE LITTLE CAT– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this quirky drama, three generations of a middle-class clan gather in a Berlin flat during the course of a day. A series of unspectacular moments, as the family cat comes and goes, sheds light on the world of a typical family.”

8/1/14– Fairly good critical reviews but audiences have been luke warm. The NY Times liked it. TRDB.

1) THE ALMOST MAN– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Henrik is 35, but he still parties with his high-school buddies like they were in they’re 20s. His mother cares for him like he’s still a child. And he’s in a relationship that’s based on goofing around. Now, his girlfriend Tone is pregnant and Henrik has taken a serious job, moved into a prefab duplex, and he’s trying to calm down the partying and start behaving like a father-to-be. But as he feels the pressure to mature, and to do it quickly, Henrik’s frustrations surface in unforeseen-and outrageously inappropriate-ways.”8/1/14- I can’t believe that this stupid sounding movie actually got OK reviews. The NY Times included. I think I’ll skip it. TRDB.2) CHILD OF GOD– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “First parentless, then homeless, poor Lester Ballard never had much of a chance. Now, as a violent, anti-social adult, he has even less of one. Simultaneously shunned and pursued, Lester retreats to a cave and descends into his own dark fantasies.”

8/1/14- Awful reviews in general although NY Times liked it. TRDB.

3) RABINDRANATH TAGORE: THE POET OF ETERNITY– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The film develops Rabindranath Tagore’s (1861-1941) genius and his contribution in arts, music, literature, philosophy, education. It exemplifies the poet’s impact on world leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and prolific thinkers such as Albert Einstein and Bertrand Russell.”

8/1/14- I’ve seen just 3 reviews– 2 down and 1 up. TRDB.

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DUE TO OPEN ON AUGUST 8-

1) THE DOG– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This up-close documentary surveys the life of John Wojtowicz, whose botched robbery of a Brooklyn bank in 1972 inspired the film Dog Day Afternoon. After serving his time, Wojtowicz became an active figure in New York’s gay liberation movement.’7/28/14– Good early reviews although one of the positive critics said that it was entertaining but wondered why anyone would care if it was made or not. TRDB.UNDECIDED- Not enough reviews

1) THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.

7/28/14- I found just 2 reviews– one up and one down. TRDB.

2) STEP UP- ALL IN- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Continuing the Step Up street dance series, competitors gather in Las Vegas for the ultimate dance-off, including champions from the previous films. In addition to the dance action, romance and rivalries abound among the determined contestants.”

7/28/14- Just one review and it’s good. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) TO KILL A MAN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The thugs that have taken over Jorge’s middle-class neighborhood push the mild-mannered family man to the brink when they mug him and shoot his son. Infuriated by his own helplessness and the law’s impotence, Jorge takes matters into his own hands.”8/6/14- No reviews as yet. TREB.

2) LIFE ITSELF– 8/8–8/21. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Follow Roger Ebert from his school newspaper days to his status as America’s premier film critic in this documentary drawn from his memoir.”6/23/14- Great reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) 4 MINUTE MILE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “4 MINUTE MILE is the inspirational story of a high school track star who falls on hard times. A new coach puts him on the right path but his resolve is threatened as tragedy strikes, forcing him to confront everything that has been holding him back.”8/1/14- Poor reviews in general and from the NY Times as well. It’s new but NOT RECOMMENDED. TRDB.

REPEATS-

_________________________________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Relocating from India to a quiet village in the south of France, chef Hassan Kadam and his family open a restaurant called Maison Mumbai. But when their business starts to thrive, a competing restaurateur launches a war between the eateries.”

REPEATS-

1) BOYHOOD- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After divorcing, a mother and father continue to share the task of guiding their young son through youth and adolescence, and finally to adulthood. As the years roll by, the relationships among the three characters continue to evolve as well.”7/11/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.2) A MOST WANTED MAN– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A half-Russian, half-Chechen man, brutalized by torture, arrives in Hamburg, where he seeks a British banker’s help in recovering his father’s estate. But the man may not be all he seems to be in this riveting adaptation of John le Carré’s novel.”

7/8/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”

7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

8/4/14- As mentioned above, there have been many negative reviews of this movie but I found it a delightful drama obviously NOT meant to be  a comedy. TRDB.

4)  CHEF– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

5) GET ON UP– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This powerhouse biopic traces the legendary James Brown’s rocky road from humble origins to superstardom as the Godfather of Soul. The film also reveals the demons — drugs, violence and near-bankruptcy — that haunted Brown on his rise to fame.”

7/31/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

6) LUCY– Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this action-thriller set in Taiwan, a young woman forced to become a drug mule for the mob develops superhuman abilities when the narcotics she’s carrying in her stomach accidentally leak into her system.”

7/25/14- Weak reviews but I’ll see it anyway because I like Luc Besson and Scarlett Johansson. TRDB.

8/3/14- Science fiction is not my thing but all in all this movie was OK. Some interesting effects and some eye candy (Scarlett Johansson) brought the movie up a few notches. TRDB.

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

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR BOB

_________________________________________________________________________________________

JULY 17, 2014

 

JULY 31, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE BATTERED BASTARDS OF BASEBALL– Netflix Streaming

2) THE ACT OF KILLING- Netflix

3) A SHORT HISTORY OF DECAY– Netflix

4) SOME VELVET MORNING- Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

_________________________________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) THE BATTERED BASTARDS OF BASEBALL– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary tells the little-known story of how actor Bing Russell (of TV’s “Bonanza”) created an independent baseball team in the 1970s. Armed with big-time dreams and plenty of spirit, Russell’s Portland Mavericks become lovable underdogs.”7/11/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/18/14- A documentary that was informative and actually fun to watch. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) TIM’S VERMEER– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Teller, of Penn & Teller fame, directs this absorbing film about inventor Tim Jenison’s quest to solve one of art’s greatest mysteries: How did Dutch master Johannes Vermeer paint so photo-realistically 150 years before the invention of photography?”

1/31/14- Good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

7/20/14- Excellent reviews but I just could not get into this movie despite seeing Vermeer in a new light for the first time. No pun intended. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THE ACT OF KILLING– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This unique documentary recalls the bloody era in Indonesia when pro-government death squads slaughtered more than a million suspected Communists. Now in positions of power, two ex-squad leaders gleefully reenact their atrocities for the filmmakers.

7/3/13- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

7/19/13- The NY Times liked this movie very much. TRDB.

7/27/14- A breathtaking documentary that must be taken seriously. Creative and bold in its scope. TRDB. Netflix.

4) A SHORT HISTORY OF DECAY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his future as a writer in ruins and his girlfriend gone, Nathan Fisher travels to Florida to help take care of his ailing parents. There, Nathan meets a manicurist who may be able to help him put things in perspective and step up to the plate.”

5/16/14- Fairly good reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

7/27/14- A delightful family drama if a little puffy. One really funny scene between the two brothers. TRDB. Netflix.

5) BLACK NATIVITY– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Langston Hughes’s play is the basis for this uplifting drama about an angry teen whose single mother sends him to spend Christmas with his grandparents. Frustrated by their strictness, the youth runs away and learns about faith during his journey.”

11/27/13- Mixed reviews at best. TRDB.

7/29/14- I felt like I was in church instead of the movies. Skip it! TRDB. Netflix.

6) SOME VELVET MORNING– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Pretty young Velvet is amazed when her ex-lover Fred shows up unannounced at her New York home with his suitcases, eager to rekindle their romance. What follows is a long emotional dialogue between the two, as Fred’s hopes are thoroughly dashed.”

12/13/13- Mixed reviews from critics but audiences have liked it. The NY Times did not care for it. TRDB.

7/30/14- I found the movie somewhat slow in the beginning but it got better and ended with a bang. Most of the critical review was either VERY positive or VERY negative. Little in between. TRDB. Netflix.

___________________________________________________ ______________________________________

CAME TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JULY 29-

1) LA DANCE– Le Ballet de L’Opera de Paris. Premise by Netflix. “Captured by renowned documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman, the lives of the men and women that comprise world-famous Opéra national de Paris reveal an unending devotion to their craft and a passion for the dance that is unequaled. Wiseman provides an intimate behind-the-scenes view of rehearsals, performances and ephemeral moments of the dancers, choreographers and others that make up the creative troupe inside the Palais Garnier.”

2) CRAZY HORSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Renowned documentarian Frederick Wiseman sets up his cameras inside Paris’s famed Crazy Horse cabaret, “the best nude dancing show in the world.” The result is a titillating take on “nude chic” — and the surprising amount of work that goes into it.”1/15/12- An article about this film in today’s NY Times. Sounds interesting and the film has received good reviews. TRDB.

3) BOXING GYM– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Acclaimed documentary director Frederick Wiseman brings his cameras to Lord’s Gym in Austin, Texas, where ex-puncher Richard Lord works with a diverse crowd of amateur boxing enthusiasts spanning every age, ethnicity and occupation. Wiseman’s signature style relies little on interviews and instead focuses on the rituals of training and the disciplined, determined approach of students and coaches to mastering the precise, brutal art of gloved combat.” Very good professional reviews so far but poor audience ratings.

4) AT BERKELY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Documentarian Frederick Wiseman turns his cameras on one of America’s best-known schools to expose tensions over rising tuition and slashed budgets. University leaders discuss the crisis as the film captures protests and the effects of cutbacks.”7/27/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

1) FIVE DANCES– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Real dance phenoms show their acting chops in this tale about Chip, a prodigy from Kansas hoping to make it big in New York City. Chip’s first weeks of rehearsal are marked by triumphs and setbacks both in his personal life and in the studio.”10/4/13- Just a few professional reviews for this documentary and they are poor. Today’s NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 5-

1) BICYCLING WITH MOLIERE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A TV celebrity faces an uphill battle as he tries to persuade his old pal, once-famous actor Serge Tanneur, to take on the lead in a Moliere play, no easy task considering the reclusive Serge has given up acting and burns every script he receives.”

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, JULY 18 IN ADDITION TO THE MOVIES I WROTE ABOUT ON JULY 17.

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OPENED ON FRIDAY, JULY 25- IN ADDITION TO THE MOVIES I MENTIONNED IN THE LAST ISSUE-

Not Recommended–

1) AND SO IT GOES– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s obliged to take over the care of a previously unknown granddaughter, wealthy and self-absorbed Oren is suddenly in need of major help. His neighbor Leah comes to the rescue — not only bailing out Oren but also capturing his heart.”7/25/14- Starring Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton this movie has received miserable reviews. TRDB.

2) UNDER THE ELECTRIC SKY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Get a free pass to America’s largest music festival and uber-party, the Electric Daisy Carnival, where attendees shed their inhibitions and enter a vivid world of incredible music, interactive art and stunning pyrotechnics.”

7/25/14- Weak reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

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WILL OPEN ON AUG. 1-

1) 4 MINUTE MILE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “4 MINUTE MILE is the inspirational story of a high school track star who falls on hard times. A new coach puts him on the right path but his resolve is threatened as tragedy strikes, forcing him to confront everything that has been holding him back.”7/27/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) CALVARY- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “An anonymous man comes to Father James in confession and vows to kill him in one week, simply because the priest is himself a good man. The father spends the week contemplating good and evil, viewing his small Irish community with new eyes.”

7/27/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) GET ON UP– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This powerhouse biopic traces the legendary James Brown’s rocky road from humble origins to superstardom as the Godfather of Soul. The film also reveals the demons — drugs, violence and near-bankruptcy — that haunted Brown on his rise to fame.”

7/31/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

4) LOUDER THAN WORDS– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This inspiring film, based on a true story, finds a couple, John (David Duchovny) and Brenda (Hope Davis) trying to put their life together after the tragic death of their young daughter, Maria (Olivia Steele-Falconer). As they deal with their numbing grief, they discover a way to honor their daughter’s wish for health and well-being for all children. With the help of their community, led by good friend Bruce (Timothy Hutton), they establish a children’s hospital called the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.”

7/31/14- Just a few reviews and they are mixed with more negative than positive. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) SIDDHARTH- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “After sending his 12-year-old son away to work, impoverished street merchant Mahendra Saini launches a search for the boy when he doesn’t return on the expected date. But Mahendra has no money and no picture of his child, hampering the hunt.”

7/30/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

2) THE EMPTY HOURS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the desolated coast of Veracruz, 17 year-old Sebastián takes over running his uncle’s small and cozy rent-by-the hour motel. There he meets Miranda, a regular customer who comes to the motel to meet a lover who always keeps her waiting. As Sebastián and Miranda get to know each other, an ambiguous game of seduction begins between them.”7/11/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW- NONE WORTHY OF MENTION

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT– Jacob Burns. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing a phony soothsayer proves harder than expected when the debunker (an Englishman) becomes smitten with the purported fraud (a French beauty). This deft romantic comedy unwinds amid the gilt and glamour of the French Riviera in the 1920s.”7/25/14- Woody’s latest has gotten poor reviews from most critics. I’m certain to see it anyway. TRDB.

2) GET ON UP– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “This powerhouse biopic traces the legendary James Brown’s rocky road from humble origins to superstardom as the Godfather of Soul. The film also reveals the demons — drugs, violence and near-bankruptcy — that haunted Brown on his rise to fame.”7/31/14- Very good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) BEGIN AGAIN– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moving to New York City proves disastrous for a young singer after her boyfriend yields to the temptation of another woman. But opportunity comes knocking when she meets a recently axed music producer looking to launch her career — and save his own.”6/27/14– Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

7/6/14- A well done fun movie with great music and very likable characters. I liked it very much. TRDB.

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 10, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) BEGIN AGAIN– At the Theater

2) MADRID, 1987– Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) BEGIN AGAIN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moving to New York City proves disastrous for a young singer after her boyfriend yields to the temptation of another woman. But opportunity comes knocking when she meets a recently axed music producer looking to launch her career — and save his own.”6/27/14– Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

7/6/14- A well done fun movie with great music and very likable characters. I liked it very much. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) ENEMY– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “When humdrum academic Adam Bell spots his double in a rented movie, he launches a search that leads him to a small-time actor who seems uncannily like him in every way — except for his personality.”3/14/14- Good review from the NY Times and from most other critics as well. TRDB.

7/5/14- I just couldn’t get past what I thought was awful acting with an awful script. The story itself was moderately entertaining. TRDB. Netflix.

2) MADRID, 1987– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “During the political unrest of 1987, Ángela meets elderly journalist Miguel for an interview and ends up his captive, locked with him in his bathroom. Over the next 24 hours, they engage in verbal sparring that parallels the nation’s upheaval.”

Here’s what Rotten Tomatoes had to say– “Madrid, 1987 …is a two-character story with a verbose discourse on writing, journalism, careerism, aging and politics. Shot mostly within a very constricted space, the story follows an older, celebrated journalist Miguel (José Sacristán) who meets the beautiful and coy journalism-student Angela (María Valverde) to give an interview – but becomes intent upon seducing her. They end up spending time in the most unusual manner …discussing literature, prose and career trajectories …gradually divulging little insights into their own selves as we start to understand the old journalist’s cynicism and the young protégé’s intentions.

10/12/12- A good review in the NY Times. TRDB.

7/8/14- This is an “all talk” movie that I found interesting with all of the action taking place in about 100 sq. feet. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 15-

1) BETHLEHEM– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “An informant for Israel’s Shin Bet intelligence service, Palestinian Sanfur is torn when his brother becomes an agency target. His tragic choice is complicated by his relationship with Razi, the boss, mentor and father figure who hired him as a teen.”3/10/14- Very good reviews in general. The NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

3/10/14- I saw this today and liked it very much– just a few too many characters. Definitely worth seeing. TRDB.

2) A NIGHT IN OLD MEXICO– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After losing his longtime home to property developers, rancher Red Bovie decides to take a road trip to Mexico, accompanied by his grandson. But their adventure turns dangerous after the pair unwittingly drives off with a drug dealer’s money.”

5/16/14- Poor reviews by most critics– the NY Times liked it. I’ll recommend it with some reservation as I love road movies. TRDB.

3) THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Between the world wars, Gustave H, the concierge at a prestigious European hotel, takes a bellboy named Zero as a trusted protégé. Meanwhile, the upscale guests are involved in an art theft and a dispute over a vast family fortune.”

3/7/14- Good reviews all around. TRDB.

4/13/14- A fun over-the-top comedy with relevance to the history of the times. TRDB.

4) WHAT’S IN A NAME?- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Vincent and Elizabeth join her brother, his wife and a friend for dinner, and the impending birth of their child is the topic of the evening. Their shared warmth dissolves when Vincent reveals the hideous name he’s chosen for his first offspring.”

12/13/13- Good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) UNDER THE SKIN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jonathan Glazer’s atmospheric, visually arresting abstraction stars Scarlett Johansson as a seductive alien who prowls the streets of Glasgow in search of prey: unsuspecting men who fall under her spell, only to be consumed by a strange liquid pool.”4/4/14- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4/11/14– Good reviews as noted but I found the movie really boring and pretentious. TRDB.

2) THE FACE OF LOVE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Years after the death of her husband, Garrett, Nikki begins a romance with Tom, a great guy who looks almost exactly like Garrett. As their relationship unfolds, fate seems to be delivering Nikki both a new start and a second chance.”

3/7/14- Weak reviews all around. The NY Times said that the actors held whatever there was together. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK- 7/4–7/10

1) ME AND YOU– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Bernardo Bertolucci helms this tale about a 14-year-old boy who dreams of  being left alone with his stack of horror novels. Astonishingly, the clever lad makes it happen by hiding out in a cellar while his mates embark on a week-long ski trip.”7/4/14- Mixed reviews in general from critics– the NY Times liked it very much and audiences were 50/50. TRDB.

2) GABRIELLE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Musicians Gabrielle and Martin fall in love and want to begin a relationship, which is against the rules at the home for the disabled where they live. Refusing to part with Martin, Gabrielle is determined to prove that she can live independently.”

4/14/14- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

3) BEYOND THE EDGE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Edmund Hillary’s 1953 ascent of Mt. Everest was an event that amazed the world and led to a new age of mountaineering and ambitious exploration. Hilary’s triumphant saga is retold using both modern footage, and recordings and photos from the time.”

7/4/14- Mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. The NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.

4) MARIUS– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Young Marius dreams of setting off to sea. But when the woman he loves begins courting an older man to make him jealous, Marius is torn between true love and his longtime passion for a life of sailing.”

7/4/14- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. The NY Times did not care for it. TRDB.

5) WRINKLES– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in a nursing home, this poignant animated feature chronicles the friendship between new arrival Emilio, a retired bank manager afflicted with Alzheimer’s, and his chatty Argentine roommate, Miguel.”

7/4/14- Excellent reviews for this animated feature. TRDB.

6) CLOSED CURTAIN– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “CLOSED CURTAIN, Jafar Panahi’s most recent non-film, made in secret, combines documentary and fictitious elements. A screenwriter goes into hiding with his dog after the regime declares dogs “impure” and bans them from walking in public.”

7/9/14- Great reviews. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) NOTHING BAD CAN HAPPEN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rebelling against organized religion but embracing Christ’s teachings, a young Christian “punk” has his faith sorely tested in this gritty drama. Proving that no good deed goes unpunished, he finds himself tortured by the very man he’s helped.”7/4/14- The reviews of this movie sounded really weird but the film got mostly good reviews. I don’t think I’ll see it. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) POLICEMAN- 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Yaron, an elite special operations squad leader, is the spiritual leader and alpha male among his peers, a small, highly trained team that is part of the Israeli Defense Ministry’s Anti-Terrorism unit.”

7/5/14- OK reviews from critics- the NY Times liked it very much. Audiences not so much. TRDB.

2) COLD IN JULY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a man kills a home invader in self-defense, the burglar’s father begins threatening the victim’s young son. But soon, both men will become embroiled in a mystery that eclipses the violence and rage already in play.”

7/5/14- Very good reviews from both critics and audiences. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) BEYOND THE EDGE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Edmund Hillary’s 1953 ascent of Mt. Everest was an event that amazed the world and led to a new age of mountaineering and ambitious exploration. Hilary’s triumphant saga is retold using both modern footage, and recordings and photos from the time.”

7/4/14- Mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. The NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.

2) LIFE ITSELF– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Follow Roger Ebert from his school newspaper days to his status as America’s premier film critic in this documentary drawn from his memoir.”

6/23/14- Great reviews. TRDB.

3) LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Ryota (Masaharu Fukuyama) is a successful Tokyo architect who works long hours to provide for his wife, Midori (Machiko Ono) and six-year-old son, Keita. But when a blood test reveals Keita and another baby were switched at birth, two very different families are thrown together and forced to make a difficult decision while Ryota confronts his own issues of responsibility and what it means to be a father. LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON extends the Japanese cinema tradition of familial exploration to deliver a gentle and moving story of personal redemption that playfully navigates its way through the drama.”

1/17/14– An excellent review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. TRDB.

3/12/14- An superb portrayal of what “family” means. Wonderful acting by all and definitely a must-see.” TRDB.

4) LOUDER THAN WORDS– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This inspiring film, based on a true story, finds a couple, John (David Duchovny) and Brenda (Hope Davis) trying to put their life together after the tragic death of their young daughter, Maria (Olivia Steele-Falconer). As they deal with their numbing grief, they discover a way to honor their daughter’s wish for health and well-being for all children. With the help of their community, led by good friend Bruce (Timothy Hutton), they establish a children’s hospital called the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.”

7/5/14- No reviews yet for this documentary. TRDB.

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THIRD PERSON– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014.  Synopsis by Netflix. “A trio of relationship stories set alternately in New York, Paris and Rome explore the range of human emotion when it comes to love — and love lost.”

6/18/14- Weak early reviews but a more complete description did sound interesting. The NY Times didn’t care for it. TRDB.

2) LIFE ITSELF– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Follow Roger Ebert from his school newspaper days to his status as America’s premier film critic in this documentary drawn from his memoir.”

6/23/14- Great reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CHEF– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”

5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

2) BEGIN AGAIN– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moving to New York City proves disastrous for a young singer after her boyfriend yields to the temptation of another woman. But opportunity comes knocking when she meets a recently axed music producer looking to launch her career — and save his own.”

6/27/14– Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

7/6/14- A well done fun movie with great music and very likable characters. I liked it very much. TRDB.

3) JERSEY BOYS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from the hit Broadway musical, this nostalgic look at the Four Seasons and their bumpy offstage lives stretches across four decades.”

6/13/14- Mixed reviews by critics although audiences have liked it. TRDB.

4) IDA– Bethel. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Raised in a Catholic orphanage during the Nazi occupation of Poland, Anna is poised to join the order when she learns she has a surviving aunt. But visiting the woman before taking her vows uncovers some inconvenient truths about her heritage.”

5/2/14- Excellent reviews all around including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5/23/14– Difficult to watch at times but a very interesting story. Definitely recommended. TRDB.

5) SNOWPIERCER– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Earth’s remaining inhabitants are confined to a single train circling the globe as revolution brews among the class-divided cars. Based on a French graphic novel and set in a new ice age, this futuristic thriller stars a top-notch ensemble cast.”

6/27/14- Very good reviews from critics and fairly good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

6) THE GRAND SEDUCTION– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The cash-strapped burg of Tickle Cove must persuade a doctor to move to town if they want a plastics manufacturer to build a new factory there. But selling the advantages of the tiny Newfoundland village to a young professional won’t be easy.”

5/30/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

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

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 3, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) ANITA: SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER– Netflix

2) ROB THE MOB- Netflix

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

1) ANITA: SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Anita Hill galvanized the nation with her appearance before the U.S. Senate in the hearings related to Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas. This film documents the subsequent controversy and landmark event in the struggle for women’s rights.”3/21/14- Fairly good reviews and the NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

6/29/14- I enjoyed this documentary very much. As noted above, this event was really the early stage of sexual harassment awareness in the workplace. TRDB.

2) ROB THE MOB– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Looking for easy money, a criminal couple sticks up New York City’s top mobsters at their gun-free social clubs. In the process, the pair comes across a complete list of Mafia members — and promptly becomes targets of the gangsters and the FBI.”

3/21/14- Good reviews and the NY Times liked it. TRDB.

6/30/14- A very entertaining movie without the usual guns of a Mafia movie. TRDB.

3) HOW I LIVE NOW- 2013.  Synopsis by Netflix. “While on vacation in rural England, American teen Daisy slowly comes to appreciate the people around her and soon falls in love with local boy Edmund. Daisy’s summer idyll comes to an abrupt end when rumors of World War III become a reality.”

10/16/13- Mixed reviews, more positive than negative. TRDB.

11/8/13- A poor review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/2/14- The only character I believed was one of the two dogs. There were a few creative aspects to the movie but you can skip it. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 8-

1) WATERMARK– 2013. “Exploring the life force that sustains us all, this documentary brings together diverse stories from around the globe about our relationship with water: how we are drawn to it, what we learn from it, how we use it and the consequences of that use.”4/4/14– Good professional reviews– audiences have been luke warm to the movie. TRDB.

2) JODOROWSKY’S DUNE– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the mid-1970s, director Alejandro Jodorowsky was determined to make a film version of Dune, Frank Herbert’s landmark science-fiction novel. This documentary recounts Jodorowsky’s efforts to gather a crew and find funding for the project.”

3/21/14- Very good reviews for this movie. The NY Times liked it also.  TRDB.

3) BAD WORDS– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Blessed with a photographic memory but no high school education, Guy Trilby discovers that he’s eligible to enter spelling bees intended for children. As Guy steamrolls his pre-teen competition, a journalist tries to find out what motivates him.”

3/14/14- Good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it as well. TRDB.

4) NYMPHOMANIAC: VOLUME 1- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A self-diagnosed nymphomaniac reveals a lifetime of sexual experiences to a man who saves her from being beaten in an alley. As the aging but charming bachelor tends to the woman, she shares erotic details of encounters from her youth to her present.”

3/21/14- Very good reviews for Lars von Trier’s latest. The NY Times liked it also. TRDB.

5) NYMPHOMANIAC: VOLUME 2- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The second half of Lars von Trier’s epic follows self-diagnosed nymphomaniac Joe as she chronicles her adult years to the man who saved her from a beating. Her tales include new conquests, both male and female, in her search for fulfillment.”

4/4/14- Mixed reviews– more positive than negative. TRDB.

6) LE WEEK-END– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Returning to Paris long after their honeymoon there, a British couple hopes to rediscover the magical feelings of their early years together. There, they meet an old friend whose perspectives on love and marriage help them recover what was lost.”

3/14/14- Good reviews from critics– audiences so-so. TRDB.

4/7/14– I enjoyed this ultimately sad movie about people’s relationships with their spouses. TRDB.

7) MAIDENTRIP– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Critics called her delusional. Child welfare agents tried to intervene. But Laura Dekker would not be denied her shot at sailing round the world. This documentary captures the 14-year-old’s solo feat through footage she shot on her two-year voyage.”

1/17/14- A good review in today’s NY Times but they commented that sailing alone Laura obviously could not film the real action while dealing with it. TRDB.

8) TEST– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the newest member of an exciting contemporary dance company in San Francisco, young Frankie navigates gay life in the big city as he grapples with a homophobic choreographer and develops an intense relationship with a fellow dancer.”

6/13/14- Very good reviews from critics and audiences. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK ( 6/27 and 7/4)-

6/27-

1) ARCHIPELAGO- 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “ARCHIPELAGO is a quietly devastating portrayal of a family in emotional crisis. Edward (Tom Hiddleston) is preparing to leave for a year of voluntary service in Africa. His mother Patricia (Kate Fahy) and his sister Cynthia (Lydia Leonard) decide to gather the family together, on a remote island, as a farewell trip to say goodbye to Edward.”6/27/14– Great reviews by professional critics and fairly good ones from audiences. TRDB.

2) BEGIN AGAIN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Moving to New York City proves disastrous for a young singer after her boyfriend yields to the temptation of another woman. But opportunity comes knocking when she meets a recently axed music producer looking to launch her career — and save his own.”

6/27/14– Fairly good reviews by critics and audiences. The NY Times did not like it. TRDB.

3) BOUND BY FLESH– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Perhaps the most famous conjoined twins of all time, the Hiltons became a vaudeville sensation before falling on hard times and dying in poverty. This absorbing documentary follows their unique life, which was fraught with exploitation and hardship.”

6/27/14- Very good reviews by critics and OK ones by audiences. TRDB.

4) THE INTERNET’S OWN BOY- THE STORY OF AARON SWARTZ– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After he helped design the original Internet protocol RSS, programming legend Aaron Swartz became an ardent information activist. This probing documentary details what became of his wide-open future after he was charged with computer fraud.”

6/27/14- Excellent reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB.

5) JACKPOT– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Driven by a fairly outrageous proposition, this blood-soaked comedy opens with Oscar Svendson waking up in the middle of a grisly murder scene. Oscar tries to prove his innocence to the police with the tale of a huge lottery win that went very wrong.”

6/27/14- Today’s NY Times gave this one a mixed review. I couldn’t find other reviews. TRDB.

7) SIDDARTH– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After sending his 12-year-old son away to work, impoverished street merchant Mahendra Saini launches a search for the boy when he doesn’t return on the expected date. But Mahendra has no money and no picture of his child, hampering the hunt.”

6/27/14– Good critical review but audiences didn’t care for it. TRDB.

8) SNOWPIERCER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The Earth’s remaining inhabitants are confined to a single train circling the globe as revolution brews among the class-divided cars. Based on a French graphic novel and set in a new ice age, this futuristic thriller stars a top-notch ensemble cast.”

6/27/14- Very good reviews from critics and fairly good ones from audiences as well. TRDB.

9) UNRELATED– 2008. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Deeply disappointed with her life in middle age but unsure of what actions she should take to remedy her malaise, a forty-something woman named Anna (Kathryn Worth) is forced to acknowledge her inner turmoil after arriving at the holiday home of a bourgeois family and becoming distracted by the youthful energy in the home.”

6/27/14- Very good professional reviews and fairly good audience reviews. The NY Times liked it very much. TRDB.

Not Recommended-

1) LA BARE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Magic Mike actor Joe Manganiello makes his directorial debut with this absorbing documentary profiling the dancers at a Dallas male strip club, where elaborate choreography, punishing physical regimens and showmanship are demanded of every performer.”

6/27/14- Weak reviews. TRDB.

2) THEY CAME TOGETHER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this semi-spoof of romantic comedies, candy company exec Joel falls for Molly, who owns a corner candy store he’s tasked with closing. Their road to romance is filled with oddball obstacles, not the least of which is Molly’s utter hatred for Joel.”

6/27/14- Weak reviews all around. TRDB.

7/3-

1) THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “On his way to interview the subject of his latest project, a documentary filmmaker has a chance encounter with a weeping young woman on a train, leading him into a world where the line between fantasy and reality is blurred.”6/27/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) LIFE ITSELF– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Follow Roger Ebert from his school newspaper days to his status as America’s premier film critic in this documentary drawn from his memoir.”

6/23/14- Great reviews. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) BORGMAN– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “A self-important suburban family gets a rude awakening in this dark fable with the arrival of Camiel Borgman to their neighborhood. Their new neighbor infiltrates himself into their lives … but is it possible that he’s the devil?”6/6/14- Fairly good reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) NIGHT MOVES– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “With their collective eye fixed on blowing up a hydroelectric dam, a pair of young environmentalists enlist the help of an ex-military explosives expert to carry out a dangerous act of eco-terrorism.”5/30/14- Very good critical review but less so by audiences. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) BOUND BY FLESH– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Perhaps the most famous conjoined twins of all time, the Hiltons became a vaudeville sensation before falling on hard times and dying in poverty. This absorbing documentary follows their unique life, which was fraught with exploitation and hardship.”6/27/14- Very good reviews by critics and OK ones by audiences. TRDB.

2) WHITEY: USA VS. JAMES J. BULGER– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Acclaimed documentarian Joe Berlinger lays bare the real story of South Boston crime boss James “Whitey” Bulger, including his sensational 2013 trial.”

6/27/14- A very good review in today’s NY Times and OK reviews by other critics. Some really bad ones too. Audiences have liked it more. TRDB.

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) LE CHEF– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The friction between gourmet chef Alexandre Lagarde and his interfering boss threatens to ruin Lagarde’s reputation and lose him his position. ‘6/20/14- Fair reviews at best from critics and audiences as well. The NY Times had a mixed review but more negative than positive. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) CHEF– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When chef Carl Casper’s plans for opening a restaurant in Los Angeles fail to pan out, he returns home to Miami and debuts a food truck instead. While trying to regain his zest for cookery, Carl also tries to mend his fractured family ties”5/9/14- Very good professional and audience reviews. TRDB.

6/8/14- A Hollywoodish feel good movie that made me feel good. TRDB.

2) IDA– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Raised in a Catholic orphanage during the Nazi occupation of Poland, Anna is poised to join the order when she learns she has a surviving aunt. But visiting the woman before taking her vows uncovers some inconvenient truths about her heritage.”

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 26, 2014

DEAR FRIENDS:

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

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) INCH’ALLAH– Netflix Streaming

2) JOE- Netflix

3) OBVIOUS CHILD– At the Theater

4) THE INVISABLE WOMAN– Netflix

5) APENAS O FIM- Netflix Streaming

6) BOY- Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER-

1) OBVIOUS CHILD– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being fired from her job and dumped by her cheating boyfriend, a comedian bottoms out and has a drunken one-night stand with a nice guy who’s not her type. Weeks later, she finds out she’s pregnant.”6/6/14- Very good reviews, including the review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/23/14- I liked this movie — I’d call it a “slice of life” romantic comedy. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

1) INCH’ALLAH– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A Canadian obstetrician living in Israel makes multiple passes through heavily guarded checkpoints to get to her job at a women’s health clinic in Palestine. But political tensions take on personal overtones when she befriends a pregnant patient.”8/16/13- A weak review in today’s NY Times and mixed ones in general, some loving it and some calling it contrived at best. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

6/20/14- A thought provoking drama that uses minimal dialogue and maximum acting to convey the story. I liked it but it is controversial for sure. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) JOE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “When ex-con Joe hires 15-year-old Gary to help clear trees for a lumber company, he doesn’t expect to become a father figure for the abused boy. When Gary runs away from home, Joe becomes his protector, a role overshadowed by his own troubled past.”

4/8/14- Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

4/11/14- A good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/22/14- After a slow start the movie became interesting with a good acting job by Nicholas Cage for a change. Worth a viewing. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THE INVISIBLE WOMAN– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ralph Fiennes directs and stars in this drama about the affair Charles Dickens began with a teen actress while at the height of his career. Felicity Jones plays the young thespian who catches Dickens’s eye, and Kristin Scott Thomas plays her mom.”

12/3/13- Mixed reviews but more good than bad. TRDB.

6/24/14- Very, very slow but I did see the whole thing. Just OK. TRDB. Netflix.

4) APENIS O FIM- 2008. Synopsis by Netflix. ” student has one hour to change his girlfriend’s mind about ending their relationship in this romantic winner of the inaugural Premio Netflix prize.”

6/24/14- I enjoyed the movie but found it very sad as the couple seemed pretty well suited to each other. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

5) BOY– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Filmed in his native New Zealand, this comedy from writer-director Taika Waititi (Eagle vs. Shark) follows 11-year-old Boy and his younger brother, Rocky, whose rich fantasy lives are stopped cold when their father returns home after years away. Although Boy has imagined that his father (Waititi) is a dashing, accomplished hero who is related to Michael Jackson, in reality he is a failed gangster seeking to restore his family’s faith in him.” Good audience reviews. TRDB.

3/2/12- Excellent review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/26/14– I enjoyed this film much more than the premise would indicate. Great acting by the kid (Boy). TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 1-

1) LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON–  2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Ryota (Masaharu Fukuyama) is a successful Tokyo architect who works long hours to provide for his wife, Midori (Machiko Ono) and six-year-old son, Keita. But when a blood test reveals Keita and another baby were switched at birth, two very different families are thrown together and forced to make a difficult decision while Ryota confronts his own issues of responsibility and what it means to be a father. LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON extends the Japanese cinema tradition of familial exploration to deliver a gentle and moving story of personal redemption that playfully navigates its way through the drama.”1/17/14– An excellent review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. TRDB.

3/12/14- An superb portrayal of what “family” means. Wonderful acting by all and definitely a must-see.” TRDB.

2) THE LUNCHBOX– 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Mumbai’s eerily reliable lunchbox delivery service erroneously sends a meal prepared by a young housewife to a lonely widower on the brink of retirement, the mistake ignites an exchange of notes and mutual fantasy between them.”2/28/14-Very good reviews in general. I’ll see it. TRDB.

4/12/14- A sensitive movie about several lonely people. I enjoyed it very much. TRDB. 

3) SISTER– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Every day, impoverished 12-year-old Simon sneaks into a posh Swiss ski resort, where he helps himself to the gear of wealthy tourists. Benefitting from his thievery is his lazy older sister, Louise, who refuses to live up to her responsibilities.”

10/5/12- Very good reviews from the NY Times and from most other critics as well. TRDB.

10/24/12- This movie gave a good depiction of the despair of the characters and therefore was a bit difficult to watch at times. All in all I’d say that I did like it. TRDB.

4) A SHORT HISTORY OF DECAY– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his future as a writer in ruins and his girlfriend gone, Nathan Fisher travels to Florida to help take care of his ailing parents. There, Nathan meets a manicurist who may be able to help him put things in perspective and step up to the plate.”

5/16/14- Fairly good reviews for this comedy. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK- (6/20 and 6/27)

1) LE CHEF– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The friction between gourmet chef Alexandre Lagarde and his interfering boss threatens to ruin Lagarde’s reputation and lose him his position. ‘6/20/14- Fair reviews at best from critics and audiences as well. The NY Times had a mixed review but more negative than positive. TRDB.

2) VENUS IN FUR– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway play by David Ives, which itself was based on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch’s groundbreaking novella, VENUS IN FUR is the latest film from master filmmaker Roman Polanski. Alone in a Paris theater after a long day of auditioning actresses for his new play, writer-director Thomas (Amalric) complains that no actress he’s seen has what it takes to play the lead female character: a woman who enters into an agreement with her male counterpart to dominate him as her slave.”

6/16/14- Very good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it as well. TRDB.

3) EXHIBITION– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “Married artists H and D decide to sell the modernist London home that’s been their refuge from the outside world (and each other) for 18 years. The decision affects them both in unexpected ways, and even forces them to reexamine their relationship.”

6/20/14- Good reviews by critics, including the NY Times and fairly good reviews from audiences. TRDB.

Not Recommended–

1) COHERENCE– 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a comet causes a neighborhood to lose power, four couples gathered for a dinner party investigate a nearby house whose lights are still on.”6/20/14- Good reviews in general. The NY Times made it sound like a failed horror movie. I think I’ll skip it. TRDB.

2) FONZY– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “José Garcia plays Diego Costa, who, 20 years ago, using the nickname Fonzy, regularly donated his sperm for research purposes. Now aged 42, Diego delivers fish for his family’s firm, and lives like a fun-loving teenager. But when his girlfriend Elsa announces she’s pregnant, his past starts to catch up with him.”

6/20/14- Critical review was only slightly better than audience reviews and that’s not saying much. The movie sounds like 2 others this year. TRDB.

3) NO TEARS FOR THE DEAD– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Gon is a hitman, abandoned by his mother shortly after immigrating to America. Wracked by guilt for accidentally killing an innocent young girl, the situation becomes even thornier when his boss assigns him the job of killing her mother.”

6/20/14- I’ve seen just 3 reviews– 2 down and 1 up. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

1) STAND CLEAROF THE CLOSING DOORS- 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “After he’s chided for skipping class, autistic 13-year-old Ricky escapes his life for a journey on the subway, spending days underground. As his family carries out a desperate search for him on the surface, Hurricane Sandy approaches the city.”5/23/14- Very good professional reviews and OK audience ones too. TRDB.

2) CHINESE PUZZLE- 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A 40-year-old father of two, still finds life very complicated. When the mother of his children moves to New York, he can’t bear them growing up far away from him and so he decides to move there as well.”5/16/14- Fairly good reviews from critics including the NY Times and mostly good reviews from audiences. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) VENUS IN FUR– 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway play by David Ives, which itself was based on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch’s groundbreaking novella, VENUS IN FUR is the latest film from master filmmaker Roman Polanski. Alone in a Paris theater after a long day of auditioning actresses for his new play, writer-director Thomas (Amalric) complains that no actress he’s seen has what it takes to play the lead female character: a woman who enters into an agreement with her male counterpart to dominate him as her slave.”6/16/14- Very good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it as well. TRDB.

REPEATS-

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

NEW IN THE BURBS-

1) THE NANCE– Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “THE NANCE recreates the naughty, raucous world of burlesque’s heyday and tells the backstage story of Chauncey Miles and his fellow performers.”6/24/14- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

2) VENUS IN FUR– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway play by David Ives, which itself was based on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch’s groundbreaking novella, VENUS IN FUR is the latest film from master filmmaker Roman Polanski. Alone in a Paris theater after a long day of auditioning actresses for his new play, writer-director Thomas (Amalric) complains that no actress he’s seen has what it takes to play the lead female character: a woman who enters into an agreement with her male counterpart to dominate him as her slave.”

6/16/14- Very good reviews in general and the NY Times liked it as well. TRDB.

3) THE GRAND SEDUCTION– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2014. Synopsis by Netflix. “The cash-strapped burg of Tickle Cove must persuade a doctor to move to town if they want a plastics manufacturer to build a new factory there. But selling the advantages of the tiny Newfoundland village to a young professional won’t be easy.”

5/30/14- Good reviews. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) IDA– Bethel, Clearview 100. 2014. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Raised in a Catholic orphanage during the Nazi occupation of Poland, Anna is poised to join the order when she learns she has a surviving aunt. But visiting the woman before taking her vows uncovers some inconvenient truths about her heritage.”

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB