The Reel Dr. Bob

AUGUST 23, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

 

1) CASA DE MI PADRE– Netflix

2) HOPE SPRINGS– At the Theater

3) JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI– Netflix.

 

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

 

1) HOPE SPRINGS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Feeling disconnected in her decades-old marriage, Maeve convinces her skeptical husband to attend a marriage therapy week with a celebrated relationship expert — but now they must shed their inhibitions and learn some new sexual and emotional moves.”Very good  professional and audience reviews . TRDB.

8/19/12- I liked this movie very much. I found it realistic, honest and very well acted. The comedy involved was a case of “the laughs” when we were uncomfortable with the honesty of the material. Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones were great and great together. TRDB.

 

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) CASA DE MI PADRE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Will Ferrell stars as a Spanish-speaking cowboy in this comedy about a Mexican clan trying to rescue their ranch from greedy creditors. When his brother can’t save the day, the simple but noble ranch hand takes on a powerful drug lord.”  Very good early reviews. TRDB.3/16/12- One of those ambiguous reviews in today’s NY Times but I think it was so-so. TRDB.

8/18/12- A cute spoof that may have gone on just a bit too long but I liked it. TRDB. Netflix.

2) JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This delectable documentary profiles sushi chef Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old master whose 10-seat, $300-a-plate restaurant is legendary among Tokyo foodies. Ono is also a father, whose sons struggle to live up to his legacy and make their own marks.” Good early reviews. TRDB.

3/9/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/20/12- As noted above this documentary is about the Japanese master of sushi. He has earned and kept the Michelin 3 Star rating even with his basement, no toilet restaurant that holds a mere 10 people. Rave reviews for this film but I felt that there was a bit too much hero worship and a bit too little about the making of the sushi itself. Definitely worth seeing however. TRDB. Netflix.

 

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 28-

 

1) DARLING COMPANION– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dealing with an empty nest and self-absorbed husband Joseph, Beth develops a deep bond with a dog she rescues — and when Joseph loses the dog after a wedding, Beth joins forces with wedding guests in a search that takes some unexpected turns.” Good early reviews. TRDB.4/20/12- A good cast but weak review in today’s NY Times and by most other critics as well. Audiences haven’t cared for it either so I would skip it. TRDB.

2) MONSIEUR LAZHAR– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When an Algerian immigrant seeking asylum in Montreal takes a job replacing an elementary school teacher who committed suicide, he finds that his own secret, tragic background enables him to help the children deal with their loss.”

4/13/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

I saw this at the Palm Springs Film Festival 2012 and loved it. TRDB.

DON’T MISS THIS ONE!!!

3) THINK LIKE A MAN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Kevin Hart stars in this romantic comedy as a relationship expert whose thesis on love and dating has made him all the rage with single women. But despite his so-called expertise, the “relationship guru” struggles to keep his own marriage together.”

4/20/12- Fair to poor professional reviews but good audience reaction. TRDB.

4) HEADHUNTERS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living way beyond his means, corporate recruiter Roger Brown steals rare artworks to maintain his lavish lifestyle. But when he plans to boost an especially valuable painting, he targets a man who has headhunting skills of a different variety.”

4/27/12- Very good reviews in general but a weak one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) THE PIRATES: BAND OF MISFITS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This animated tale follows a pirate captain from the high seas to the streets of London as he strives to win the Pirate of the Year Award. But to snag the coveted prize, he’ll have to beat his dreaded rivals Black Bellamy and Cutlass Liz. Featuring an all-star cast that includes the voices of Hugh Grant, Jeremy Piven and Salma Hayek.”

4/30/12- We took our grandchildren to see this– ages 7 and 4. The animation and technique were very good and a pleasure to watch in 3D. The story is incidental. TRDB. 

6) NATE & MARGARET– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this quirky comedy, the odd-couple friendship between Nate, a young, gay film student, and Margaret, a 50-something eccentric, takes center stage. Trouble arrives in the form of Nate‘s first lover, who doesn’t quite “get” Margaret.”

6/22/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON 8/16-

 

1) ROBOT AND FRANK– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Retired cat burglar Frank worries his adult children, who present him with a robot caretaker to look after his house and keep him company. Realizing that his new companion would make the perfect accomplice, Frank plans a return to his old profession.”Very good early reviews. TRDB.

8/17/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times and most critics have liked it. TRDB.

2) COMPLIANCE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on a true incident, this tense drama unfolds as a prank caller pretends to be a cop and convinces a restaurant manager to interrogate her teenaged employee about a supposed theft from a customer — a situation that soon spins out of control.” Very good early reviews. There is an article in the NY Times on 5/6/12 about this movie and about the lead actor, Ann Dowd, and about the controversy when it was shown at Sundance this year. TRDB.

8/17/12- An interesting and intriguing review in today’s NY Times that details the controversy regarding this movie at Sundance 2012. TRDB.

3) THE MATCHMAKER– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “In an Israel still recovering from World War II yet also grappling with the tumultuous “Swinging Sixties,” teenager Arik (Tuval Shafir) works for matchmaker Yankele Bride (Adir Miller) as a “spy-guy” who investigates potential clients, and gets a master class in the art of love. Yankele, who operates in an unsavory area of Haifa, is in love with fellow Holocaust survivor Clara (Maya Dagan), while Arik finds romance with a wild American (Neta Porat).” A few good reviews.

8/17/12- A good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) SPEAK- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Focusing on the well-spoken participants at the intense and highly competitive Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking, this talky documentary profiles those who excel at one of the most universally feared activities there is.”

8/17/12- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) BROTHER, CAN YOU SPARE A DOLLAR?- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Drawing a comparison between the Great Depression and today’s economic woes, this documentary explores how our lessening commitment to personal responsibility and community has affected our economic survival strategies.”

8/17/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) THE GREEN WAVE– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “THE GREEN WAVE is a powerful film documenting the populist protests in Iran following the suspicious victory of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over progressive candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi in the Iranian presidential elections on June 12, 2009. Cell phone videos posted on the internet, Twitter messages, as well as animated blog posts and interviews with prominent human rights advocates and exiled Iranians bear witness to the brutal attacks by government militia in their efforts to squelch the protests that followed. THE GREEN WAVE is a highly contemporary chronicle of the Green Revolution, and a memorial for all of those who believed in freedom and lost their lives for it.”

8/17/12-Very good reviews in general and a good one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7) CHICKEN WITH PLUMS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1950s Tehran, a musician’s life comes undone: an old flame doesn’t recognize him, his violin is broken and he becomes bedridden with worry. As he spirals into despair without the ability to play music, he teeters on the edge of oblivion.”

8/17/12- A good review in today’s NY Times and very good professional reviews in general. Fairly good audience reaction as well. TRDB.

8) THE AWAKENING– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In post-World War I England, a boarding school haunted by a boy’s ghost calls on Florence Cathcart, who disproves hoaxes for a living. But Cathcart senses something truly strange about the school, leading her to question her belief in the rational.”

8/17/12- Weak reviews all around and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

 

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) HIGH GROUND– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Eleven wounded warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan join an expedition to climb the 20,000-foot Mount Lobuche. Led by blind adventurer Erik Weihenmayer and a team of Everest summiters, they set out on an emotional climb to reach the top.”Great early reivews. TRDB.

2) LITTLE WHITE LIES– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Little White Lies follows a group of longtime friends who reunite for their annual beach vacation despite a traumatic accident involving one of their own. During their seaside getaway, they all make discoveries about each other and are finally forced to own up to the little white lies they’ve been telling one another — and themselves.”

Poor early reviews. TRDB.

3) SOMEWHERE BETWEEN– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Questions of race, identity and heritage are explored through the lives of young American women growing up as adoptees from China. These four distinct individuals reflect on their experiences as members of transracial families.”

Just a few reviews and they are OK. TRDB.

4) WILD HORSE, WILD RIDE– Synopsis by Netflix. “An annual contest challenges 100 people across the United States to tame a wild mustang in 100 days. Following this dangerous and harrowing feat is a public showcase that determines whether these horses can be saved from a life in captivity.”

Just a few reviews and they are not good. TRDB.

 

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES–  2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directed by lauded filmmaker and photographer Lauren Greenfield, who won the U.S. Directing Award for Documentary Film at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival for this film, The Queen of Versailles is a character-driven documentary about a billionaire family and their financial challenges in the wake of the economic crisis. With epic proportions of Shakespearean tragedy, the film follows two unique characters, whose rags-to-riches success stories reveal the innate virtues and flaws of the American Dream. The film begins with the family triumphantly constructing the biggest house in America, a 90,000 sq. ft. palace. Over the next two years, their sprawling empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to the economic crisis. Major changes in lifestyle and character ensue within the cross-cultural household of family members and domestic staff.”Very good reviews in general and in the NY Times on 7/20/12. TRDB.

 

2) TRISHNA–  2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Self-effacing British auteur Michael Winterbottom sets his unique spin on Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles against a contemporary Indian backdrop. Freida Pinto stars as the titular Trishna, a young woman who is seduced by the wealthy son of a property developer. As the romance develops, their relationship also becomes increasingly sordid and volatile.”Good early professional reviews but weaker audience ones. TRDB. 

7/17/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) THE GOOD DOCTOR–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Martin Blake, a young doctor setting out to establish his reputation, falls into an illicit romance with teenage patient Diane. When a colleague learns of the forbidden relationship, he uses the information to blackmail Dr. Blake for drugs.”Mixed reviews. TRDB.

2) THE GREEN WAVE–  2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “THE GREEN WAVE is a powerful film documenting the populist protests in Iran following the suspicious victory of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over progressive candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi in the Iranian presidential elections on June 12, 2009. Cell phone videos posted on the internet, Twitter messages, as well as animated blog posts and interviews with prominent human rights advocates and exiled Iranians bear witness to the brutal attacks by government militia in their efforts to squelch the protests that followed. THE GREEN WAVE is a highly contemporary chronicle of the Green Revolution, and a memorial for all of those who believed in freedom and lost their lives for it.”8/17/12-Very good reviews in general and a good one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) WHY STOP NOW– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the day piano prodigy Eli is to audition for a famous conservatory, he gets sidetracked by an attempt to stash his cocaine-addled mother, Penny, in rehab. When Penny is denied admittance, Eli enters into a bizarre partnership with her dealers.”8/17/12- Poor reviews by critics and by audiences make you want to miss this one. TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

1) 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK

2) 50/50- I liked it- a fun movie despite the heavy premise

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) ROBOT AND FRANK– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Retired cat burglar Frank worries his adult children, who present him with a robot caretaker to look after his house and keep him company. Realizing that his new companion would make the perfect accomplice, Frank plans a return to his old profession.”Very good early reviews. TRDB.

8/17/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times and most critics have liked it. TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

1) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD– Bethel. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.”6/11/12- Great review in the NY Times last week. TRDB.

7/30/12- I’ll start off by saying that I enjoyed the film except for the dialogue which was realistic but difficult to understand on many occasions. The acting and the individual scenes of this movie were unforgettable but I felt that the sum total of these scenes far outweighed the movie itself. Still, I’d recommend seeing it. TRDB.

2) CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Andy Samberg) met in high school, married young and are growing apart. Now thirty, Celeste is the driven owner of her own media consulting firm, Jesse is once again unemployed and in no particular rush to do anything with his life. Celeste is convinced that divorcing Jesse is the right thing to do — she is on her way up, he is on his way nowhere, and if they do it now instead of later, they can remain supportive friends. Jesse passively accepts this transition into friendship, even though he is still in love with her. As the reality of their separation sets in, Celeste slowly and painfully realizes she has been cavalier about their relationship, and her decision, which once seemed mature and progressive, now seems impulsive and selfish. But her timing with Jesse is less than fortuitous…”  

Fairly good reviews BUT all of my friends who saw this film hated it. TRDB.

8/3/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) HOPE SPRINGS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Feeling disconnected in her decades-old marriage, Maeve convinces her skeptical husband to attend a marriage therapy week with a celebrated relationship expert — but now they must shed their inhibitions and learn some new sexual and emotional moves.”

Very good professional and audience reviews . TRDB.

8/19/12- I liked this movie very much. I found it realistic, honest and very well acted. The comedy involved was a case of “the laughs” when we were uncomfortable with the honesty of the material. Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones were great and great together. TRDB.

4) THE INTOUCHABLES– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie. It proves that Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB. 

5) THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directed by lauded filmmaker and photographer Lauren Greenfield, who won the U.S. Directing Award for Documentary Film at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival for this film, The Queen of Versailles is a character-driven documentary about a billionaire family and their financial challenges in the wake of the economic crisis. With epic proportions of Shakespearean tragedy, the film follows two unique characters, whose rags-to-riches success stories reveal the innate virtues and flaws of the American Dream. The film begins with the family triumphantly constructing the biggest house in America, a 90,000 sq. ft. palace. Over the next two years, their sprawling empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to the economic crisis. Major changes in lifestyle and character ensue within the cross-cultural household of family members and domestic staff.”

Very good reviews in general and in the NY Times on 7/20/12. TRDB.

8/8/12- A very good and insightful documentary that also applied the psycho-social history of the characters to better understand their reaction to adversity. TRDB. 

6) 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK– Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Marion and Mingus live cozily-perhaps too cozily-with their cat and two young children from previous relationships. However, when Marion’s jolly father (played by director Delpy’s real-life dad), her oversexed sister, and her sister’s outrageous boyfriend unceremoniously descend upon them for a visit, it initiates two unforgettable days that will test Marion and Mingus’s relationship. With their unwitting racism and sexual frankness, the French triumvirate hilariously has no boundaries or filters…and no person is left unscathed in its wake.”

Mixed reviews, both audience and professional. TRDB.

8/10/12- The NY Times called this movie “a likable mess” in today’s review.

7) MOONRISE KINGDOM– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”

Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 16, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

I have family visiting this week so I’ve seen only a few movies. With a few exceptions I’ve seen everything that’s around worth seeing. A few new ones this week.

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

 

1) MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITE- Netflix

2) HERE– 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) MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “An illiterate handyman named Germain (Gérard Depardieu) befriends Margueritte (Gisèle Casadesus), a highly educated 95-year-old woman. The two couldn’t be more different, with the oafish Germain bewildered by the literature that gives Margueritte such pleasure. Slowly the two form an unusual and intense bond, leading them to a greater understanding of their place in the world, and in each other’s lives.” Early professional reviews are positive but weak for audiences. TRDB.9/16/11- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/9/12- A thoroughly delightful movie with a wonderful Depardieu as usual. TRDB. Netflix.

2) HERE– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “When he travels to Armenia to make a set of hyperaccurate, satellite-based maps of the country, professional cartographer Will Shepard (Ben Foster) falls in with Gadarine Najarian (Lubna Azabal), a disaffected photographer trying to reconnect with her roots. Deciding to travel the country together, the pair embark on an unsettling journey of discovery into the Armenian landscape and into their solitary lives. Braden King directs this drama.” Mentioned in NY Times on 1/22/11 re Sundance.

4/13/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. OK reviews by other critics and only fair audience response. TRDB.

8/10/12- I found this movie interesting if a little pretentious with some of the extra voice-overs by Peter Coyote. Good acting and a good story however. TRDB. Netflix.

3) KEYHOLE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “From surrealist master Guy Maddin comes this tale of a gangster trying desperately to reach his wife. Ulysses Pick arrives home with a body in tow and must hunt from room to room to find Hyacinth in a dreamlike odyssey taking place indoors.”

4/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and some others as well. TRDB.

8/14/12- I had absolutely no interest in this “avant-garde” movie and found it ridiculous and pretentious. I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

4) THE DEEP BLUE SEA–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This remake of the original 1955 film, adapted from a Terence Rattigan play, stars Rachel Weisz as a wedded woman who falls hard for a younger man. Her determination and emotional obsession lead her into tragic conflict with the morals of the day.”

3/23/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/14/12- This movie was very, very boring and I turned it off fairly quickly. TRDB. Netflix.

 

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 21-

 

1) POST MORTEM– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “The bloody 1973 military coup in Chile is the center of this gripping drama about Mario (Alfredo Castro), a lonely morgue worker caught up in the chaos tearing apart his country. When the woman he loves, Nancy (Antonia Zegers), goes missing, Mario’s political awakening begins. Mario’s search for Nancy is interrupted when soldiers kidnap him and his boss (Jaime Vadell) and force them to conduct an autopsy on a secret and highly important corpse.” Very good professional reviews but just so-so audience responses. TRDB.

 

2) BONSAI– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this poignant drama, a forlorn bookstore employee haunted by his unrealized literary ambitions — as well as an intense but failed college romance — begins to write a novel based on the relationship. In the process, he reshapes his own life.”5/11/12- Good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) A SEPARATION– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “An Iranian husband and wife split up over his decision to stay and care for his aging father instead of leaving the country with his family. But his fateful choice to hire a stranger to do most of the caretaking breeds unexpected consequences.” Very good reviews and indeed on the top ten list of at least one reviewer I’ve read. TRDB.

12/30/11- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

1/13/12- I saw this at the Palm Springs Film Festival 2012 and liked it but not as much as most of my friends. TRDB.

4) BERNIE- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this black comedy inspired by real-life events, affable Texas mortician Bernie befriends the small town’s wealthiest widow and then kills her. But despite the suspicious nature of her death, no one wants to think anything but the best of Bernie.”

4/27/12- Good reviews in general and a difficult to interpret review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) CHIMPANZEE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Spinning documentary footage into family-friendly fare, this Disneynature film follows an orphaned chimp named Oscar on his quest to find a home. In the end, he finds a new family in the unlikeliest of places.” Good early reviews. TRDB.

4/20/12- Miserable review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) WEEKEND– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Russell visits a local gay bar on a Friday night, hoping to meet Mr. Right Now. Instead, he finds Glen, and they spend an intimate weekend learning each other’s innermost secrets. Though neither expected to, both men may have found a soul mate.” I read one review and it’s good. TRDB.

9/23/11- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

10/12/11- I could have liked this movie a lot more than I did but with the thick accent and both main actors high on booze or drugs continuously I found it very difficult. Where are the sub-titles when you need them? TRDB.

7) CELLMATES– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After being sentenced to a Texas prison for fraud, Leroy Lowe, a Grand Dragon in the Ku Klux Klan, is paired with an Hispanic cellmate, Emilio, whose kind and bubbly nature penetrates Leroy’s ignorance and makes him question his racist beliefs.”

An OK review from the NY Times on 6/1/12 and excellent audience reaction as well. TRDB.

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OPENED LAST WEEK IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON 8/9-

 

1) THE CAMPAIGN– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Plenty of mud gets slung when an inexperienced contender backed by two plotting benefactors goes up against a longtime North Carolina congressman in a ruthless battle to win a House of Representatives seat.”8/10/12- Normally I don’t review this type of movie but with elections coming this November it might be of particular interest. The film has received just OK reviews including the one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) GOATS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 15-year-old Ellis departs from his home in Tucson for an elite East Coast prep school, he must leave behind his New Age mother and his goat herder mentor, Goat Man, to forge a new life with his estranged father and new stepmother.”

8/10/12- Awful reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

3) RED HOOK SUMMER– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Flik’s summer vacation is upended when he’s sent from suburban Atlanta to stay with his preacher grandfather in the projects of Brooklyn. As the old man tries to get religion into his grandson, Flik befriends a mischievous girl from the congregation.”

Fairly good reviews so far for this movie. TRDB.

8/10/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) THE LION OF JUDAH– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Recounting painful memories from his past, Holocaust survivor Leo Zisman leads a group of young people through Poland — and the remains of Auschwitz. Along the way, they learn that anti-Semitism still lingers in the region.”

8/10/12- A so-so review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. TRDB.

5) ALMAYER’S FOLLY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This affecting adaptation of a Joseph Conrad novel follows the efforts of a Western trader in 1950s Malaysia to ensure a lush life for his daughter. Instead, he finds that his plans may lead to her ruin by the young man hired to work for him.”

8/10/12- Excellent professional reviews in general as well as in today’s NY Times. Audiences have not like the movie. TRDB.

 

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) BELOVED– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In the freewheeling Paris of the ’60s, young Madeleine (Ludivine Sagnier)-who has gone from selling shoes to sleeping with men for money-falls for a handsome Czech doctor, Jaromil (Rasha Bukvic), who she soon marries and joins in Prague. A baby daughter is born, but Jaromil’s infidelities and the arrival of Russian tanks in Prague lead Madeleine back to France-though the love between them still burns. Thirty years later in London, we follow Madeleine’s daughter, Vera (Chiara Mastroianni), who has fallen in love with a musician (American actor Paul Schneider) who is incapable of devoting himself to her, while her ex (Honoré regular Louis Garrel) still pines for her. Meanwhile in Paris, a re-married Madeleine (Catherine Deneuve) has rekindled her love affair with Jaromil (director Milos Forman, in a rare acting role). Frequent Honoré collaborator Alex Beaupain (LOVE SONGS, DANS PARIS) composed the emotional, César-nominated score for this light-hearted but ultimately moving exploration of the changing nature of relationships.”OK professional reviews but weak audience reaction. TRDB.

2) CHICKEN WITH PLUMS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1950s Tehran, a musician’s life comes undone: an old flame doesn’t recognize him, his violin is broken and he becomes bedridden with worry. As he spirals into despair without the ability to play music, he teeters on the edge of oblivion.”

Very good professional reviews and fairly good audience reaction. TRDB.

3) COSMOPOLIS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wall Street whiz Eric Packer is caught in Manhattan’s gridlock as he helplessly watches his empire fall with the rise of the Chinese yuan. Activity erupts in the streets, and paranoia sets in as Packer links the clues to his imminent assassination.”

Just mixed early reviews for this one. TRDB.

4) SLEEPWALK WITH ME– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this autobiographical tale based on director Mike Birbiglia’s successful one-man show, an up-and-coming stand-up comedian deals with career and relationship issues while trying to ignore his outrageous sleepwalking habit.”

Rotten Tomatoes had this to say– “I’m going to tell you a story, and it’s true….I always have to tell people that.” So asserts comedian-turned-playwright-turned-filmmaker Mike Birbiglia directly to the viewer at the outset of his autobiographically inspired, fictional feature debut. Birbiglia wears his incisive wit on his sleeve while portraying a cinematic surrogate. We are thrust into the tale of a burgeoning stand-up comedian struggling with the stress of a stalled career, a stale relationship threatening to race out of his control, and the wild spurts of severe sleepwalking he is desperate to ignore. Based on the successful one-man show, Sleepwalk With Me engages in the kind of passionate and personal storytelling that transfigures intimate anguish into comic art. Produced and co-written by Ira Glass (NPR’s This American Life), Sleepwalk With Mefeatures a stellar supporting cast that includes Lauren Ambrose (Six Feet Under), Carol Kane (Taxi), James Rebhorn (Meet the Parents), Cristin Milioti (30 Rock), and a sampling from the who’s who of today’s stand-up scene.”

Great reviews!! TRDB.

5) SPARKLE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When three Detroit sisters rise to fame as a Motown girl group in the 1960s, their sudden success creates conflict that rips their lives apart. While she deals with her family’s issues, the youngest sister, Sparkle, starts to chase her own dreams.”

No professional reviews as yet. TRDB.

6) WHY STOP NOW– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “On the day piano prodigy Eli is to audition for a famous conservatory, he gets sidetracked by an attempt to stash his cocaine-addled mother, Penny, in rehab. When Penny is denied admittance, Eli enters into a bizarre partnership with her dealers.”

No professional reviews as yet. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) HEADHUNTERS–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living way beyond his means, corporate recruiter Roger Brown steals rare artworks to maintain his lavish lifestyle. But when he plans to boost an especially valuable painting, he targets a man who has headhunting skills of a different variety.”4/27/12- Good reviews in general but a weak one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) PLANET OF SNAIL– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “A deaf, blind recluse with few ties to the outside world finds an ideal mate in a disabled woman, who expands his universe and inspires his passions. Their life together might not be grand, but it’s beautiful in its simplicity.”Excellent reviews. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Marion and Mingus live cozily-perhaps too cozily-with their cat and two young children from previous relationships. However, when Marion’s jolly father (played by director Delpy’s real-life dad), her oversexed sister, and her sister’s outrageous boyfriend unceremoniously descend upon them for a visit, it initiates two unforgettable days that will test Marion and Mingus’s relationship. With their unwitting racism and sexual frankness, the French triumvirate hilariously has no boundaries or filters…and no person is left unscathed in its wake.”Mixed reviews, both audience and professional. TRDB.

8/10/12- The NY Times called this movie “a likable mess” in today’s review.

 

2) GOATS- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 15-year-old Ellis departs from his home in Tucson for an elite East Coast prep school, he must leave behind his New Age mother and his goat herder mentor, Goat Man, to forge a new life with his estranged father and new stepmother.”8/10/12- Awful reviews in general and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.

 

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Andy Samberg) met in high school, married young and are growing apart. Now thirty, Celeste is the driven owner of her own media consulting firm, Jesse is once again unemployed and in no particular rush to do anything with his life. Celeste is convinced that divorcing Jesse is the right thing to do — she is on her way up, he is on his way nowhere, and if they do it now instead of later, they can remain supportive friends. Jesse passively accepts this transition into friendship, even though he is still in love with her. As the reality of their separation sets in, Celeste slowly and painfully realizes she has been cavalier about their relationship, and her decision, which once seemed mature and progressive, now seems impulsive and selfish. But her timing with Jesse is less than fortuitous…”Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

8/3/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

1) HOPE SPRINGS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Feeling disconnected in her decades-old marriage, Maeve convinces her skeptical husband to attend a marriage therapy week with a celebrated relationship expert — but now they must shed their inhibitions and learn some new sexual and emotional moves.”Very good  professional and audience reviews . TRDB.

8/8/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) THE INTOUCHABLES– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie. It proves that Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB. 

3) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.”

6/11/12- Great review in the NY Times last week. TRDB.

7/30/12- I’ll start off by saying that I enjoyed the film except for the dialogue which was realistic but difficult to understand on many occasions. The acting and the individual scenes of this movie were unforgettable but I felt that the sum total of these scenes far outweighed the movie itself. Still, I’d recommend seeing it. TRDB.

4)  RUBY SPARKS– Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In an effort to conquer his writer’s block, a young novelist — who’s having trouble duplicating the success of his earlier work — jots down all the attributes of his dream girl. But things get weird when she suddenly comes to life.”

Mixed early reviews but more good than poor. Audiences have liked it. TRDB.

An article about the movie in the NY Times on 7/22/12. TRDB.

5) TO ROME WITH LOVE– Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Woody Allen plays a father meeting his daughter’s Italian in-laws to-be in this ensemble comedy that interweaves four tales set in Rome. Other cast members include Roberto Benigni as a man mistaken for a film star.”

6/22/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only fair critical reviews in general. TRDB.

7/2/12- While there was no magical excitement in this movie I found it funny, clever and a great travelogue of the Eternal City. TRDB.  

6) THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directed by lauded filmmaker and photographer Lauren Greenfield, who won the U.S. Directing Award for Documentary Film at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival for this film, The Queen of Versailles is a character-driven documentary about a billionaire family and their financial challenges in the wake of the economic crisis. With epic proportions of Shakespearean tragedy, the film follows two unique characters, whose rags-to-riches success stories reveal the innate virtues and flaws of the American Dream. The film begins with the family triumphantly constructing the biggest house in America, a 90,000 sq. ft. palace. Over the next two years, their sprawling empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to the economic crisis. Major changes in lifestyle and character ensue within the cross-cultural household of family members and domestic staff.”

Very good reviews in general and in the NY Times on 7/20/12. TRDB.

8/8/12- A very good and insightful documentary that also revealed the psycho-social history of the characters to better understand their reaction to adversity. TRDB.  

7) KILLER JOE– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dimwitted drug dealer Chris hires Killer Joe to ice his mother for her insurance. But Chris is broke, so Joe demands his sister Dottie as collateral. Dottie’s not about to be treated as chattel, and Killer Joe soon wishes he’d never taken the job.”

7/27/12- Good reviews in general but a bad, bad one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8)2 DAYS IN NEW YORK– Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Marion and Mingus live cozily-perhaps too cozily-with their cat and two young children from previous relationships. However, when Marion’s jolly father (played by director Delpy’s real-life dad), her oversexed sister, and her sister’s outrageous boyfriend unceremoniously descend upon them for a visit, it initiates two unforgettable days that will test Marion and Mingus’s relationship. With their unwitting racism and sexual frankness, the French triumvirate hilariously has no boundaries or filters…and no person is left unscathed in its wake.”

Mixed reviews, both audience and professional. TRDB.

8/10/12- The NY Times called this movie “a likable mess” in today’s review.

9) MOONRISE KINGDOM– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”

Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

 

 

AUGUST 2, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

  

1) LAST RIDE– Comcast On-Demand

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

 

1) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.”6/11/12- Great review in the NY Times last week. TRDB.

7/30/12- I’ll start off by saying that I enjoyed the film except for the dialogue which was realistic but difficult to understand on many occasions. The acting and the individual scenes of this movie were unforgettable but I felt that the sum total of these scenes far outweighed the movie itself. Still, I’d recommend seeing it. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) BULLHEAD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tortured by his past and despairing of his stultifying present life, Belgian cattle farmer Jacky becomes entangled in a violent web of deceit involving local mobsters and determined policemen after he uses illegal growth hormones on his herd.” Very well liked by audiences and I read only 1 professional review and it was terrific. TRDB.2/17/12- Good review in today’s NY Times for this Oscar nominated (Best Foreign Film) movie. TRDB.

7/30/12- Can’t say that I liked it but the cinematography and acting did keep me involved and despite trying to turn this off a few times I kept coming back for more. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) LAST RIDE– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In Last Ride, a desperate father takes his ten year old son, Chook, on the run after committing a violent crime. As the two journey into the desert and an unknown future, their troubled relationship and the need to survive sees them battling the elements and each other. Chook eventually takes control and the choice he is forced to make has a devastating effect on both their lives.”

7/6/12– Good review in today’s NY Times and by the critics in general. Audiences have liked it as well. TRDB.

7/31/12- An interesting Australian drama with beautiful scenery and I’d recommend it. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, AUG. 7-

 

1) MARLEY– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Featuring dozens of interviews, electrifying concert performances and rare footage, this documentary explores the music, life and legacy of reggae icon Bob Marley, from his birth in 1945 to his death from cancer at age 36.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.4/20/12- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) GIRLFRIEND– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Evan (Evan Sneider), a genial young man with Down syndrome, lives with his adoring mother, Celeste (Amanda Plummer), but is self-sufficient, holding a job and longing for a real relationship with the object of his high school crush: a single mother named Candy (Shannon Woodward). When he suddenly comes into some money, Evan begins to support Candy, who is still entangled with her abusive ex, Russ (Jackson Rathbone), as well as a married lover.” OK review in NY Times on 7/15/11 but awful reviews in general. TRDB.

3) MARGARET– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “After witnessing a fatal bus crash, New York City high school student Margaret (Anna Paquin) believes she was an accidental factor in the tragedy. As she tries to deal with her feelings, Margaret becomes emotionally abusive to those around her — and to herself. The stellar cast of this moving drama includes Matt Damon, Matthew Broderick, Mark Ruffalo, Allison Janney, Jean Reno, Rosemarie DeWitt and Kieran Culkin.” Very good audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.

9/30/11- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) BEING FLYNN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A young man employed at a Boston homeless shelter comes upon his long-lost, destitute and alcoholic father while at work one evening in this subtle, emotionally charged drama based on the acclaimed memoir by poet and playwright Nick Flynn.”

3/2/12- Good audience reaction and somewhat weak professional reviews including a fair review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) BLUE LIKE JAZZ– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Life in a devout family has given Don a unique view of religious hypocrisy, so when choosing a college, he picks “the most godless campus in America.” This rebellion against his upbringing changes Don, often in ways he never sees coming.”

4/13/12- OK review in today’s NY Times and excellent audience reactions so far. TRDB.

6) ON THE ICE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The beauty and austerity of Barrow, Alaska, inform this gripping thriller about two Iñupiaq teenagers, Qalli (Josiah Patkotak) and Aivaaq (Frank Qutuq Irelan), whose decision to cover up the accidental death of their friend James, for which they are responsible, tears them apart. As the townsfolk try to reveal the truth, guilt weighs heavily on Qalli and Aivaaq, making them lash out against their families and question their traditional lifestyle.”

2/17/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times but the premise did sound interesting and I’ll probably see this eventually. Other critics have liked it. TRDB.

7) ALL IN: THE POKER MOVIE– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Celebrities such as actors Matt Damon and Jennifer Tilly and National Public Radio’s Ira Glass discuss poker’s popularity resurgence in filmmaker Douglas Tirola’s documentary. The glitz of Las Vegas and the chance to win a colossal payout have made poker a bona fide phenomenon in recent years. Revealing the smoke-filled rooms of the game’s rich history, this film also explores how the Internet put poker back in the public eye.”

3/23/12- Poor review in today’s NY Times and mixed reviews in general. TRDB.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENED LAST WEEK IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT ON 7/26-

 

1) KILLER JOE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dimwitted drug dealer Chris hires Killer Joe to ice his mother for her insurance. But Chris is broke, so Joe demands his sister Dottie as collateral. Dottie’s not about to be treated as chattel, and Killer Joe soon wishes he’d never taken the job.”7/27/12- Good reviews in general but a bad, bad one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) ABENDLAND– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmmaker Nikolaus Geyrhalter’s penetrating documentary takes a nocturnal look at the contemporary Western world — explicitly its wealth and exclusivity — illuminating patterns of isolation and conformity through an array of sequences.”

7/27/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) 360– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this remake of the 1950 classic La Ronde, an all-star cast weaves through interrelated stories about love, passion and loneliness. From London and Denver to Phoenix and Vienna, people are haunted by their need to connect, despite the consequences.”Mediocre professional reviews but OK audience reaction. TRDB.

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

Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

3) YOU’VE BEEN TRUMPED– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In this David and Goliath tale for the 21st Century, a group of proud Scottish homeowners take on Donald Trump, as the tycoon prepares to destroy one of Britain’s last stretches of coastal wilderness by building a luxury golf resort. As the locals make their last stand in the face of security harassment, legal threats and the cutting off of water and electricity supplies, director Anthony Baxter is thrown in jail as he seeks out the truth.”

Very good early reviews. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA– At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) YOUR SISTER’S SISTER– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jack, who is mourning the death of his brother, has a complicated relationship with his best friend, Iris, who used to date his brother. Their chaotic situation becomes even more tangled when Jack has a drunken tryst with Iris’s flighty sister.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.An article about the director in the NY Times on 5/6/12. TRDB.

6/15/12- Mixed review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/26/12- I liked this movie, especially the relationship between the sisters. TRDB. At the Theater.

2) LAST RIDE- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In Last Ride, a desperate father takes his ten year old son, Chook, on the run after committing a violent crime. As the two journey into the desert and an unknown future, their troubled relationship and the need to survive sees them battling the elements and each other. Chook eventually takes control and the choice he is forced to make has a devastating effect on both their lives.”7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and by the critics in general. Audiences have liked it as well. TRDB.

7/31/12- An interesting Australian drama with beautiful scenery and I’d recommend it. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND

NEW-

 

1) KLOWN- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two wildly inappropriate pals run amok through the countryside plowing through social taboos, unspeakable debaucheries and absurd sexual encounters. Kidnapping, canoeing and cathouses all factor into this riotous escapade where chaos rules the day.”No professional reviews as yet and OK audience reaction. TRDB.

7/27/12- A review in today’s NY Times like this movie but said that it bordered on child porn. Go figure!! TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES- Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Directed by lauded filmmaker and photographer Lauren Greenfield, who won the U.S. Directing Award for Documentary Film at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival for this film, The Queen of Versailles is a character-driven documentary about a billionaire family and their financial challenges in the wake of the economic crisis. With epic proportions of Shakespearean tragedy, the film follows two unique characters, whose rags-to-riches success stories reveal the innate virtues and flaws of the American Dream. The film begins with the family triumphantly constructing the biggest house in America, a 90,000 sq. ft. palace. Over the next two years, their sprawling empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to the economic crisis. Major changes in lifestyle and character ensue within the cross-cultural household of family members and domestic staff.”Very good reviews in general and in the NY Times on 7/20/12. TRDB.

 

REPEATS-

 

1) THE INTOUCHABLES– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie. It proves that Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB. 

2)  MOONRISE KINGDOM– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”

Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

3) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.”

6/11/12- Great review in the NY Times last week. TRDB.

7/30/12- I’ll start off by saying that I enjoyed the film except for the dialogue which was realistic but difficult to understand on many occasions. The acting and the individual scenes of this movie were unforgettable but I felt that the sum total of these scenes far outweighed the movie itself. Still, I’d recommend seeing it. TRDB.

4) TO ROME WITH LOVE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Woody Allen plays a father meeting his daughter’s Italian in-laws to-be in this ensemble comedy that interweaves four tales set in Rome. Other cast members include Roberto Benigni as a man mistaken for a film star.”

6/22/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only fair critical reviews in general. TRDB.

7/2/12- While there was no magical excitement in this movie I found it funny, clever and a great travelogue of the Eternal City. TRDB.  

5) BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To make the most of their meager retirement savings, a group of British seniors relocates to India to live out their golden years at the Marigold Hotel. But upon arrival, they discover that the once-lavish resort has wilted considerably.”

Rotten Tomatoes said– “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel follows a group of British retirees who decide to “outsource” their retirement to less expensive and seemingly exotic India. Enticed by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and bolstered with visions of a life of leisure, they arrive to find the palace a shell of its former self. Though the new environment is less luxurious than imagined, they are forever transformed by their shared experiences, discovering that life and love can begin again when you let go of the past.

Very good early reviews called this film a bit schmaltzy but well done. TRDB.

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 26, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

 

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

 

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

 

1) TOMBOY– Netflix Streaming

2) THE HUNTER– Netflix

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) TOMBOY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Uncomfortable living as a girl, 10-year-old Laure decides to spend her childhood as Michael. When Michael’s family moves to rural France, the child wins friends and comes to understand the complexities of gender.”1/16/11- Very good review in today’s NY Times and great reviews in general. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 31-

 

1) LE HAVRE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This comedic drama relates the poignant tale of a young immigrant African boy arriving destitute in the French port of Le Havre, where he’s eventually taken under the wing of a former Bohemian writer who now chooses to shine shoes for a living.” Good audience reaction and OK professional reviews so far. TRDB.10/21/11- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

OPENED LAST WEEK IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT- NONE

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This compelling documentary explores three years in the life of celebrated Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei, who uses social media and his art to inspire protests against the state, and suffers government persecution for his actions.”Good professional reviews and fair audience ones. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU–  2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A local beauty’s death is ruled suicide by sleeping pills, but crime novelist Rousseau doesn’t buy it. Reality turns out to be stranger than fiction — and a source of inspiration — as he uncovers the truth about the woman’s past.”Fairly good reviews especially from the critics. TRDB.

2) CHELY WRIGHT: WISH ME AWAY- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This poignant documentary, filmed over three years, profiles country music star Chely Wright, a devout Christian whose struggle to succeed in the music biz while hiding her homosexuality from her conservative family and fans caused her much anguish.”A very good review in the NY Times on 6/1/12 and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) 30 BEATS– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Paz de la Huerta, Justin Kirk, Lee Pace, Thomas Sadoski, and Jennifer Tilly headline an ensemble of New Yorkers whose lives interconnect via a string of life-changing sexual encounters during a summer heat wave. The international cast also includes Lithuanian actress Ingeborga Dapkunaite, Peruvian Jason Day, French actress Vahina Giocante, Ben Levin and Condola Rashad. 30 BEATS follows ten characters drawn into a ring of love and desire, each one caught beyond his or her control in a chain reaction of seduction, impulses and self-discovery. The screenplay was freely inspired by Arthur Schnitzler’s play LA RONDE. The film was produced by Molly Conners, Carl Ford and Lloyd and executive produced by Susan Batson, Ronald Guttman and Pierre Lagrange.”Weak early reviews in general and a barely OK review in the NY Times on 7/20/12. TRDB.

2) CASA DE  MI PADRE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Will Ferrell stars as a Spanish-speaking cowboy in this comedy about a Mexican clan trying to rescue their ranch from greedy creditors. When his brother can’t save the day, the simple but noble ranch hand takes on a powerful drug lord.”  Very good early reviews. TRDB.3/16/12- One of those ambiguous reviews in today’s NY Times but I think it was so-so. TRDB.

3) TRISHNA- 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Self-effacing British auteur Michael Winterbottom sets his unique spin on Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles against a contemporary Indian backdrop. Freida Pinto stars as the titular Trishna, a young woman who is seduced by the wealthy son of a property developer. As the romance develops, their relationship also becomes increasingly sordid and volatile.”Good early professional reviews but weaker audience ones. TRDB. 

 

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

REPEATS-

 

1) THE INTOUCHABLES– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

 

 

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com  

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 12, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

NEXT THURSDAY, JULY 19, I WILL BE SHOWING AND DISCUSSING A MOVIE CALLED “THE MAID” AT THE HERITAGE HILLS FOREIGN AND INDEPENDENT FILM CLUB. IF YOU BELONG TO THE CLUB YOU MIGHT CONSIDER COMING AS I THINK YOU’LL ENJOY THIS CHILEAN FILM.

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

 

1) JEFF, WHO LIVES AT HOME– Netflix

2) SAVAGES– Theater

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-

 

1) SAVAGES- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Laguna Beach entrepreneurs Ben (Johnson), a peaceful and charitable Buddhist, and his closest friend Chon (Kitsch), a former Navy SEAL and ex-mercenary, run a lucrative, homegrown industry-raising some of the best marijuana ever developed. They also share a one-of-a-kind love with the extraordinary beauty Ophelia (Lively). Life is idyllic in their Southern California town…until the Mexican Baja Cartel decides to move in and demands that the trio partners with them. When the merciless head of the BC, Elena (Hayek), and her brutal enforcer, Lado (Del Toro), underestimate the unbreakable bond among these three friends, Ben and Chon-with the reluctant, slippery assistance of a dirty DEA agent (Travolta)-wage a seemingly unwinnable war against the cartel.”7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only average reviews in general. Audiences have liked it. TRDB.

7/9/12- Generally this is not my kind of movie as the film was way over the top in violence, blood and gore but I actually was surprised at how I got sucked into the different personalities involved. A qualified recommendation.  

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) NORWEGIAN WOOD– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1969 Tokyo, this melancholic tale centers on serious young college freshman Toru Watanabe (Ken’ichi Matsuyama), whose developing relationship with childhood friend Naoko (Rinko Kikuchi) drags into the present a terrible event both would rather bury. While Naoko begins to withdraw, Toru awakens to the political and cultural tumult around him, and when he meets the intriguing Midori (Kiko Mizuhara), Toru must confront his own uncertain heart.” Very good reviews. TRDB.1/6/12- Fair review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/7/12- This film was way too slow, even for me. There was no life to any of the characters. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) JEFF, WHO LIVES AT HOME– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Siblings Jay and Mark Duplass direct this stoner comedy focusing on two brothers — one a moderate success, the other still living with Mom. A trip to the store for glue, however, turns into an encounter with destiny for the stay-at–home slacker.” Mostly very good reviews. TRDB.

3/16/12- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/8/12- Poignant and funny and I recommend it. TRDB. Netflix.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 17-

 

1) HERE- 2011. Premise by Netflix. “When he travels to Armenia to make a set of hyperaccurate, satellite-based maps of the country, professional cartographer Will Shepard (Ben Foster) falls in with Gadarine Najarian (Lubna Azabal), a disaffected photographer trying to reconnect with her roots. Deciding to travel the country together, the pair embark on an unsettling journey of discovery into the Armenian landscape and into their solitary lives. Braden King directs this drama.” Mentioned in NY Times on 1/22/11 re Sundance. 4/13/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. OK reviews by other critics and only fair audience response. TRDB.

2) BIG MIRACLE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After small-town Alaska journalist Adam Carlson writes about three whales trapped in the Arctic Circle, the U.S. and U.S.S.R. team up to rescue them in this tale inspired by true events. Meanwhile, Adam’s Greenpeace volunteer ex-girlfriend arrives.”

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

 3) FRIENDS WITH KIDS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Best friends Jason and Julie decide that the way to have kids without sacrificing their social lives or careers is to raise a child together platonically. But romance and other complications interfere with their perfect plan.” Mixed reviews. TRDB.3/9/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3/13/12- An OK romantic comedy, definitely better than what else is out there now. TRDB.

4) SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “A sheik with a love for the sport hopes to introduce fly-fishing to the Middle East and turns to uptight fisheries expert Fred Jones for help. Buoyed by the sheik’s enthusiasm (and his comely English aide), Fred sets out to achieve the impossible.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

3/9/12- Fairly good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3/17/12- Take it for what it’s worth. Somewhat light and fluffy with each character basically a caricature but all in all a fun movie with some good comedy as well. TRDB.

5) CASA DE  MI PADRE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Will Ferrell stars as a Spanish-speaking cowboy in this comedy about a Mexican clan trying to rescue their ranch from greedy creditors. When his brother can’t save the day, the simple but noble ranch hand takes on a powerful drug lord.”  Very good early reviews. TRDB.

3/16/12- One of those ambiguous reviews in today’s NY Times but I think it was so-so. TRDB.

6) 4:44 LAST DAY ON EARTH– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After learning that the world will end the following day at 4:44 a.m., a New York City couple lives out their final hours with mixed emotions. They also try to say goodbye to loved ones, which results in some eleventh-hour issues.” Good audience reviews. TRDB.

3/23/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7) BLACK BUTTERFLIES– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This passionate biopic profiles South African poet Ingrid Jonker, whose exuberant nature is destroyed by her repeated betrayals of her supportive lover and her complex relationship with her disapproving father, the minister of censorship.”

3/2/12- Generally good reviews. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENED LAST WEEK (7/6) IN ADDITION TO THOSE I WROTE ABOUT-

 

1) SAVAGES– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Laguna Beach entrepreneurs Ben (Johnson), a peaceful and charitable Buddhist, and his closest friend Chon (Kitsch), a former Navy SEAL and ex-mercenary, run a lucrative, homegrown industry-raising some of the best marijuana ever developed. They also share a one-of-a-kind love with the extraordinary beauty Ophelia (Lively). Life is idyllic in their Southern California town…until the Mexican Baja Cartel decides to move in and demands that the trio partners with them. When the merciless head of the BC, Elena (Hayek), and her brutal enforcer, Lado (Del Toro), underestimate the unbreakable bond among these three friends, Ben and Chon-with the reluctant, slippery assistance of a dirty DEA agent (Travolta)-wage a seemingly unwinnable war against the cartel.”7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only average reviews in general. Audiences have liked it. TRDB.

2) THE MAGIC OF BELLE ISLE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After alcoholism depletes his enthusiasm for writing, celebrated author Monte Wildhorn finds his creative passion renewed when he moves to quaint Belle Isle and gets to know his next door neighbors — a single mother and her three daughters.”

Fair early reviews. TRDB.

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. I’ll try to see it. TRDB.

3) LAST RIDE– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In Last Ride, a desperate father takes his ten year old son, Chook, on the run after committing a violent crime. As the two journey into the desert and an unknown future, their troubled relationship and the need to survive sees them battling the elements and each other. Chook eventually takes control and the choice he is forced to make has a devastating effect on both their lives.”

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and by the critics in general. Audiences have liked it as well. TRDB.

4) STARRY STARRY NIGHT– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “When Mei falls in love with Jay, a new transfer student at her school, love at first sight takes hold, providing her first journey into adulthood and what soon becomes her fondest childhood memory. Amongst her parents’ divorce and bickering and her grandfather’s death, Mei finds solace in Jay even as they begin a perilous journey into the mountainous wilderness to find her grandparents’ home. As they venture into the starry, starry night, they get lost in a storm that leads them towards a greater destination.”

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) CHINA HEAVYWEIGHT– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Scouted from villages throughout rural southwestern China, teens with a knack for boxing move to training centers that teach more than just the sport. While resisting pro boxing’s temptations of fame, they hone their skill for national Olympic pride.”

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and from other critics as well. TRDB.

6) UNITED IN ANGER– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “United in Anger: A History of ACT UP is an inspiring documentary about the birth and life of the AIDS activist movement from the perspective of the people in the trenches fighting the epidemic. Utilizing oral histories of members of ACT UP, as well as rare archival footage, the film depicts the efforts of ACT UP as it battles corporate greed, social indifference, and government neglect.”

7/6/12- A good review in today’s NY Times. A few other reviews have been positive as well. TRDB.

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) BALLPLAYER: PELOTERO– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This compelling documentary, narrated by John Leguizamo and executive produced by Boston Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine, is a gritty and never before seen look inside the world of Major League Baseball (MLB) training camps in the Dominican Republic. Miguel Angel and Jean Carlos are two of the top prospects and they are both about to turn 16, which means they can be signed to an MLB farm team and ultimately move up to the majors. Ballplayer: Pelotero filmmakers Ross Finkel, Trevor Martin and Jonathan Paley take you inside this never before seen world for an up close and personal look at the cost of the American dream.”Mediocre early audience reviews. No professional ones as yet. TRDB.

2) THE IMPOSTER– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In 1994 a 13-year-old boy disappeared without a trace from his home in San Antonio, Texas. Three and a half years later he is found alive thousands of miles away in a village in southern Spain with a horrifying story of kidnap and torture. His family is overjoyed to bring him home. But all is not quite as it seems. The boy bears many of the same distinguishing marks he always did, but why does he now have a strange accent? Why does he look so different? And why doesn’t the family seem to notice these glaring inconsistencies? It’s only when an investigator starts asking questions that this strange tale takes an even stranger turn.”

Excellent reviews!! TRDB.

3) TRISHNA– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Self-effacing British auteur Michael Winterbottom sets his unique spin on Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles against a contemporary Indian backdrop. Freida Pinto stars as the titular Trishna, a young woman who is seduced by the wealthy son of a property developer. As the romance develops, their relationship also becomes increasingly sordid and volatile.”

Good early professional reviews but weaker audience ones. TRDB. 

4) UNION SQUARE– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An unexpected reunion between estranged sisters, one is on the verge of marriage; the other is on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Both struggle with truths they’re hiding from each other – and from themselves. Jenny has rejected her tumultuous family and cut off communication, seeking a more ordered life far from her roots in the Bronx. And she’s almost ready to commit to her longtime fiancé when her sister Lucy – the personification of all that Jenny has been trying to flee – surprises her at a critical time. Lucy and Jenny’s combustible reunion brings both of them to unforeseen places, shattering and reconstructing the worlds they have both carefully constructed.”

Awful early reviews and I’ll probably miss this one. TRDB.

5) SEVEN MINUTES IN HEAVEN– 2008. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A woman’s brush with death forces her to re-examine her past and present in this drama from Israel. Galia (Reymond Amsalem) was riding a city bus when a suicide bomber on board set off an explosive device. While Galia survived the bombing, she suffered severe burns and injuries and was declared clinically dead for seven minutes. While Galia’s body has been healing steadily, her mind is still struggling to make sense of what happened; she has no memory of the terrible day, and can only piece together nightmarish flashes of the chaotic events. Itzik (Benjamin Jagendorf) is a seminarian who was on hand to help the injured on the day of the explosion, and he attempts to counsel Galia, helping her put together the shards of her memory and explain his theory that the souls of people who have briefly been “dead” often have trouble reacquainting themselves after they’ve traveled outside the body. As Galia ponders these questions about her life and her spirit, she finds comfort in her new friendship with Boaz (Eldad Fribas). Sheva Dakot Be Gan Eden (aka Seven Minutes In Heaven) was the first feature film from director Omri Givon.”

No professional reviews available but audiences have liked it very much. There is an article on this film in the NY Times on Sunday, July 8, 2012. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1)  BALLPLAYER: PELOTERO– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “This compelling documentary, narrated by John Leguizamo and executive produced by Boston Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine, is a gritty and never before seen look inside the world of Major League Baseball (MLB) training camps in the Dominican Republic. Miguel Angel and Jean Carlos are two of the top prospects and they are both about to turn 16, which means they can be signed to an MLB farm team and ultimately move up to the majors. Ballplayer: Pelotero filmmakers Ross Finkel, Trevor Martin and Jonathan Paley take you inside this never before seen world for an up close and personal look at the cost of the American dream.”Mediocre early audience reviews. No professional ones as yet. TRDB.

2) ALPS (ALPEIS)- 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “With Alps, director Yorgos Lanthimos brings to the screen the story of a group of people who specialize in playing the role of deceased people to anyone (usually relatives, friends or colleagues of the deceased) willing to pay for their services. Their company, called Alps, is managed by Mont Blanc (Aris Servetalis), a strict boss who keeps his employees under a close watch. But when the company’s nurse (Aggeliki Papoulia) decides to get off her scripted routine, this eccentric group starts falling to pieces.”

Excellent professional reviews and good audience reaction as well. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) MAGIC OF BELLE ISLE-  2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After alcoholism depletes his enthusiasm for writing, celebrated author Monte Wildhorn finds his creative passion renewed when he moves to quaint Belle Isle and gets to know his next door neighbors — a single mother and her three daughters.”Fair early reviews. TRDB.

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. I’ll try to see it. TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD–  Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.”6/11/12- Great review in the NY Times last week. TRDB.

 

REPEATS-

 

1) TO ROME WITH LOVE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Woody Allen plays a father meeting his daughter’s Italian in-laws to-be in this ensemble comedy that interweaves four tales set in Rome. Other cast members include Roberto Benigni as a man mistaken for a film star.”6/22/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only fair critical reviews in general. TRDB.

7/2/12- While there was no magical excitement in this movie I found it funny, clever and a great travelogue of the Eternal City. TRDB.  

2) MOONRISE KINGDOM– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”

Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

3) BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To make the most of their meager retirement savings, a group of British seniors relocates to India to live out their golden years at the Marigold Hotel. But upon arrival, they discover that the once-lavish resort has wilted considerably.”

Rotten Tomatoes said– “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel follows a group of British retirees who decide to “outsource” their retirement to less expensive and seemingly exotic India. Enticed by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and bolstered with visions of a life of leisure, they arrive to find the palace a shell of its former self. Though the new environment is less luxurious than imagined, they are forever transformed by their shared experiences, discovering that life and love can begin again when you let go of the past.

Very good early reviews called this film a bit schmaltzy but well done. TRDB.

4) SAVAGES- Danbury. 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Laguna Beach entrepreneurs Ben (Johnson), a peaceful and charitable Buddhist, and his closest friend Chon (Kitsch), a former Navy SEAL and ex-mercenary, run a lucrative, homegrown industry-raising some of the best marijuana ever developed. They also share a one-of-a-kind love with the extraordinary beauty Ophelia (Lively). Life is idyllic in their Southern California town…until the Mexican Baja Cartel decides to move in and demands that the trio partners with them. When the merciless head of the BC, Elena (Hayek), and her brutal enforcer, Lado (Del Toro), underestimate the unbreakable bond among these three friends, Ben and Chon-with the reluctant, slippery assistance of a dirty DEA agent (Travolta)-wage a seemingly unwinnable war against the cartel.”

7/6/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only average reviews in general. Audiences have liked it. TRDB.

7/9/12- Generally this is not my kind of movie as the film was way over the top in violence, blood and gore but I actually was surprised at how I got sucked into the different personalities involved. A qualified recommendation.  

5) THE INTOUCHABLES– Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie. It proves that Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB. 

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JULY 6, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

THINGS ARE DEFINITELY IMPROVING- I SAW 4 MOVIES THAT I LIKED THIS WEEK- 

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

 

1) SING YOUR SONG– Netflix

2) TO ROME WITH LOVE– Theater

3) TAKE THIS WALTZ– Comcast On-Demand

4) BORN TO BE WILD–  Netflix

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER-

 

1) THE INTOUCHABLES– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6/28/12- Despite a few good scenes I was very disappointed by this movie. It proves that Hollywood can slide effortlessly into Paris. TRDB. 

2) TO ROME WITH LOVE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Woody Allen plays a father meeting his daughter’s Italian in-laws to-be in this ensemble comedy that interweaves four tales set in Rome. Other cast members include Roberto Benigni as a man mistaken for a film star.”

6/22/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only fair critical reviews in general. TRDB.

7/2/12- While there was no magical excitement in this movie I found it funny, clever and a great travelogue of the Eternal City. TRDB.  

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) SING YOUR SONG– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix.”Hoping to inspire a new generation of activists, entertainer Harry Belafonte allows director Susanne Rostock intimate access to his life to document his many decades as a performer and as a tireless advocate for human rights around the world. As a supporter of Martin Luther King Jr. and the victim of racism during his tours of the South, Belafonte was deeply committed to social change in the U.S. and later worked to end apartheid in South Africa.” Great audience reaction. TRDB.1/13/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/3012- A very well done film about a very interesting man and I highly recommend it. TRDB. Netflix.

2) TAKE THIS WALTZ– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmed in Toronto, this intimate, unflashy romantic drama portrays a happily married woman who experiences a sudden and strong desire for another man. Further complicating the situation, the object of her desire resides just across the street.”

Very good early reviews. TRDB.

6/29/12- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/2/12- Great acting by Michelle Williams and if you can suspend a bit of reality I think you can enjoy this film. I did. Comcast On-Demand.

3) BORN TO BE WILD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmed in IMAX 3D, this documentary captures the unique and intimate connections that developed between two scientists and two species — orangutans and elephants — as the men worked to save the orphaned beasts and return them to the wild. Primatologist Birute Galdikas and renowned elephant authority Daphne Sheldrick pursue their pioneering efforts on the plains of Kenya and in the jungles of Borneo, respectively.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/5/12- A short 40min. documentary that was well done and held my interest throughout. TRDB. Netflix.

4) THE GREY- 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After narrowly surviving a deadly plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness, a band of oil riggers must fend for their lives in the ice and snow. But thanks to wolves that view their presence as a threat, they aren’t alone.”

1/27/12- A fairly good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/3/12- I can’t believe the good reviews. I found this movie intolerable and turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

5) URBANIZED– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “The third part of Gary Hustwit’s design film trilogy, Urbanized looks at the issues and strategies behind urban design and features some of the world’s foremost architects, planners, policymakers, builders and thinkers. By exploring a diverse range of urban design projects around the world, Urbanized frames a global discussion on the future of cities.”

10/28/11- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/3/12- 88% of viewers liked this movie but I’m in the 12% who found this statistic filled documentary boring. TRDB. Netflix.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 10-

 

1) THE FLOWERS OF WAR– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1937, as the Japanese army brutally invades the Chinese city of Nanking, an American mortician is trapped inside a western cathedral and vows to protect a group of young schoolgirls and 13 courtesans who are seeking refuge from the soldiers.” Awful professional reviews but audiences appear to like it. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) THE DO-DECA PANTATHLON– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “From Jay and Mark Duplass, the writer/directors of the Sundance hits The Puffy Chair, Cyrus and the upcoming Jeff Who Lives at Home comes The Do-Deca-Pentathlon, the story of two grown brothers who secretly compete in a homemade Olympics during a family reunion. When their fierce and disruptive competition is uncovered, the brothers must choose between their passion for beating the hell out of each other and the greater good of the family.”

  

 

2) KATY PERRY: PART OF ME– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Pop star Katy Perry is captured on- and offstage in this revealing diary of her California Dreams Tour, featuring her Los Angeles performances in 3-D. The film shares the air of glamour and fun that radiate from this talented and unique artist.”Very good audience reaction but no professional reviews as yet. TRDB.

3) THE MAGIC OF BELLE ISLE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “After alcoholism depletes his enthusiasm for writing, celebrated author Monte Wildhorn finds his creative passion renewed when he moves to quaint Belle Isle and gets to know his next door neighbors — a single mother and her three daughters.”

Fair early reviews. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) KUMARE–  2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A provocative social experiment-turned-documentary, Kumare follows American filmmaker Vikram Gandhi as he transforms himself into a wise Indian guru, hoping to prove the absurdity of blind faith. Instead, he finds himself forging profound connections with people from all walks of life — and wondering if and when to reveal his true self. Will his followers accept his final teaching? Can this illusion reveal a greater spiritual truth? Winner of South by Southwest’s Audience Award, Kumare is an insightful look at faith and belief.”Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) POLISSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This French drama presents a fictionalized but well-researched portrait of the juvenile protection division of the Paris court system, following a documentarian as she films the employees in the department and the children under its authority.” Good early reviews. TRDB.5/18/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and very good reviews by almost all critics. Audiences have liked it too. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) TAKE THIS WALTZ– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmed in Toronto, this intimate, unflashy romantic drama portrays a happily married woman who experiences a sudden and strong desire for another man. Further complicating the situation, the object of her desire resides just across the street.”Very good early reviews. TRDB.

6/29/12- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/2/12- Great acting by Michelle Williams and if you can suspend a bit of reality I think you can enjoy this film. I did.

2) THE ARTIST– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This modern-day silent film artfully recounts the poignant end of the silent-movie era in the late 1920s. The story contrasts the declining fortunes of a silent-screen superstar with his lover’s rise to popularity as a darling of the “talkies.”

11/26/11- Great reviews including one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

12/24/11- I liked this movie very much. Very creative, well acted and an interesting story as well. TRDB.

3) A BURNING HOT SUMMER– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Loosely evoking Godard’s Contempt, A Burning Hot Summer examines the once-happy marriage between brooding painter Frédéric (Louis Garrel) and his movie-star wife Angèle (Bellucci) as it hits the rocks. When another young couple-actors Paul (Jérôme Robart) and Elisabeth (Céline Sallette)-joins them on a Roman holiday, tensions and passions flare. The film features a score by the Velvet Underground’s John Cale, with the legendary Maurice Garrel (the director’s father) in his final role.”

6/29/12- Poor reviews in general but a good one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) THE LAST RIDE– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A young college student agrees to drive volatile country music star Hank Williams to a concert, never guessing he’ll be the last one to see him alive. Along the way, he gets a glimpse into the mind of a troubled legend.”

OK reviews so far from audiences but nothing yet from professionals. TRDB.

6/22/12- Poor review in today’s NY Times- they said that you need to be a Hank Williams fanatic to enjoy this one. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) 50/50- A fun movie despite the heavy premise

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) TAKE THIS WALTZ– Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmed in Toronto, this intimate, unflashy romantic drama portrays a happily married woman who experiences a sudden and strong desire for another man. Further complicating the situation, the object of her desire resides just across the street.”Very good early reviews. TRDB.

6/29/12- Great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7/2/12- Great acting by Michelle Williams and if you can suspend a bit of reality I think you can enjoy this film. I did. 

REPEATS-

 

1) YOUR SISTER’S SISTER– Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jack, who is mourning the death of his brother, has a complicated relationship with his best friend, Iris, who used to date his brother. Their chaotic situation becomes even more tangled when Jack has a drunken tryst with Iris’s flighty sister.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.An article about the director in the NY Times on 5/6/12. TRDB.

6/15/12- Mixed review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/26/12- I liked this movie, especially the relationship between the sisters. TRDB. 

2) TO ROME WITH LOVE– Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Woody Allen plays a father meeting his daughter’s Italian in-laws to-be in this ensemble comedy that interweaves four tales set in Rome. Other cast members include Roberto Benigni as a man mistaken for a film star.”

6/22/12- Good review in today’s NY Times but only fair critical reviews in general. TRDB.

7/2/12- While there was no magical excitement in this movie I found it funny, clever and a great travelogue of the Eternal City. TRDB.  

3) MOONRISE KINGDOM– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”

Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

4) BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To make the most of their meager retirement savings, a group of British seniors relocates to India to live out their golden years at the Marigold Hotel. But upon arrival, they discover that the once-lavish resort has wilted considerably.”

Rotten Tomatoes said– “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel follows a group of British retirees who decide to “outsource” their retirement to less expensive and seemingly exotic India. Enticed by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and bolstered with visions of a life of leisure, they arrive to find the palace a shell of its former self. Though the new environment is less luxurious than imagined, they are forever transformed by their shared experiences, discovering that life and love can begin again when you let go of the past.

Very good early reviews called this film a bit schmaltzy but well done. TRDB.

5)  THE INTOUCHABLES– Jacob Burns. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this compelling story based on true events, affluent quadriplegic Phillipe hires Driss — a young Parisian petty criminal — to be his caregiver, and the two form an unexpected bond that changes both their lives.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

5/6/12- An article in today’s NY Times talks about the movie and the lead actor. Apparently this has become a “hot” topic in France. TRDB.

5/25/12- Weak review in today’s NY Times, but good reviews in general.  TRDB.

6) SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED -Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A team of journalists is dispatched to find out who’s behind a classified advertisement seeking a companion for time travel, with payment on return. After tracking down their oddball prey, the team has to decide how best to approach their subject.”

Very good reviews. TRDB.

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 21, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

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

 

THIS WAS A WEAK WEEK FOR ME- NO THEATER MOVIES AND ONLY 2 MOVIES THAT I LIKED.

I HOPE TO DO BETTER NEXT WEEK—

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF LAST WEEK-

 

1) KINYARWANDA– Netflix

2) THE WOMAN ON THE FIFTH– Comcast On-Demand

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK IN THE THEATER- NONE

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

 

1) EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Believing that his father left him a message before dying in the September 11 attacks, young Oskar Schell embarks on an emotional odyssey through New York City to find the lock that matches a key he found among his father’s belongings.” Weak reviews in general although some of my friends liked it very much. TRDB.6/15/12- A bit too cute most of the time and not nearly as good as the book, it intermittently held my interest. TRDB. Netflix.

2) KINYARWANDA– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “In this first-ever dramatic feature produced by Rwandans, the events of the horrific 1994 genocide are personalized through six intertwined stories. As the violence rages, mosques become a haven for Rwandans of all affiliations seeking protection. Director and writer Alrick Brown seeks the gray areas in this dark period of history, finding all-too-human motivations and resilience in the face of unimaginable catastrophe.” At Sundance 2011. Excellent reviews. TRDB.

6/17/12- One more of the Rwanda genocide movies but this one presents a complex question when it examines forgiveness. TRDB. Netflix.

3) GOON– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he’s seen dispatching a rude opposing hockey player in the stands, Doug Glatt is hired by a rival team … for his fighting skills. It seems the new team’s star is gun-shy after being hit by a puck, and Glatt’s job is to be his on-ice bodyguard.”

3/31/12- Good review in today’s NY Times and elsewhere as well. TRDB.

6/18/12- Aside from a few funny scenes and a few interesting pieces of screenplay this movie was like all of the rest of the violent sports films where the hero defies all odds. TRDB. Netflix.

4) FOR LOVERS ONLY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Former lovers bump into each other in Paris, and sparks are reignited in this road drama that finds them traveling the length of France. The paramours experience both the joy of each other’s company and the angst of an unsettled relationship.” Just a few reviews and they are good. TRDB.

6/20/12- I truly disliked both the man and the woman in this film. I found them to be immature and the screenplay reflected this. I love France and road movies and I couldn’t warm up to this one. You can miss it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

5) CORIOLANUS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actor Ralph Fiennes makes his directorial debut with this modern update of Shakespeare’s tale about the arrogant general who is banished by the republic he has protected at all costs, provoking him to ally with former foes and wreck a bloody revenge.”

12/2/11- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/20/12- OK if you can get used to a Shakespeare play acted out in a modern movie with Ralph Fiennes spouting Shakespear while killing a host of enemy soldiers. I had some trouble. TRDB. Netflix.

6) THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An American writer moves to Paris to be closer to his daughter and finds himself falling immediately on hard times. Befriended by a French Arab who offers him a job, Tom finds himself employed as a security agent as he struggles to write his second novel and see his daughter. Meanwhile, his personal life takes a turn as he becomes involved with a beguiling woman.” Good early professional reviews and just OK audience reaction. TRDB.

6/15/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/20/12- I liked the movie very much although I do have some questions about the ending as did many professional reviewers. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 26-

 

1) SOUND OF NOISE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “This intriguing comedy follows six renegade musicians trying to fill their Swedish hometown with sound, even if they have to wreak a little havoc to hit the right notes. But hot on their trail is tone-deaf, music-hating policeman Amadeus Warnebring (Bengt Nilsson). While the six percussionists appropriate public areas and items to make their music, Warnebring wrangles with his demanding family and a boss intent on arresting every local musician.” Just OK reviews. TRDB.

 

2) ORANGES AND SUNSHINE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Based on real events, this stirring drama follows British social worker Margaret Humphreys (Emily Watson) as she uncovers a shocking deportation scandal involving thousands of children and risks her personal life to draw global attention to this grave injustice. An adaptation of Humphreys’s book Empty Cradles, this inspiring story of courage and conviction also stars Hugo Weaving, David Wenham and Tara Morice.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.10/21/11- Excellent review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) ONCE UPON A TIME IN ANATOLIA–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “A body has been buried in the grasslands of rural Turkey. Over the course of one night, a doctor and a detective from a nearby town join a search effort in which the desolate landscape comes to symbolize their own solemn, insular lives.” Very good professional reviews but so far audiences just so-so. TRDB.1/4/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) BULLHEAD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Tortured by his past and despairing of his stultifying present life, Belgian cattle farmer Jacky becomes entangled in a violent web of deceit involving local mobsters and determined policemen after he uses illegal growth hormones on his herd.” Very well liked by audiences and I read only 1 professional review and it was terrific. TRDB.

2/17/12- Good review in today’s NY Times for this Oscar nominated (Best Foreign Film) movie. TRDB.

5) THE DECOY BRIDE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a Hollywood actress travels to a tiny Scottish island to get married, the paparazzi follow her, prompting her to flee in frustration. Her handlers decide to stage fake nuptials to dupe the press and hire a local girl to play the bride.”3/9/12- Poor reviews in general but an OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 

6) THE ARTIST– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This modern-day silent film artfully recounts the poignant end of the silent-movie era in the late 1920s. The story contrasts the declining fortunes of a silent-screen superstar with his lover’s rise to popularity as a darling of the “talkies.”

11/26/11- Great reviews including one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

12/24/11- I liked this movie very much. Very creative, well acted and an interesting story as well. TRDB.

7) 21 JUMP STREET– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In the action-comedy 21 Jump Street, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) are more than ready to leave their adolescent problems behind. Joining the police force and the secret Jump Street unit, they use their youthful appearances to go undercover in a local high school. As they trade in their guns and badges for backpacks, Schmidt and Jenko risk their lives to investigate a violent and dangerous drug ring. But they find that high school is nothing like they left it just a few years earlier – and neither expects that they will have to confront the terror and anxiety of being a teenager again and all the issues they thought they had left behind.”

3/16/12- This one sounds ridiculous but has actually received very good reviews including one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8)SIDEWALLS (MEDIANERAS)- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Separated by the wall their apartments share, Mariana and Martin are the perfect couple. They have the same quirks, same tastes, same ideals, and even the same neuroses. They’re a match made in heaven. There’s just one problem: They’ve never met.”  Very good early reviews. TRDB.

1/16/11- Different to say the least and I can’t say I really enjoyed it but I did like the ending. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) STELLA DAYS– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A small town cinema in rural Ireland in the 1950s becomes the setting for a dramatic struggle between Rome and Hollywood, and a man and his conscience. Martin Sheen stars as Father Daniel Berry in a story about the excitement of the unknown versus the security of the familiar, as those in the town find themselves on the cusp of the modern but still clinging to the traditions of church and a cultural identity forged in very different times.”Poor early reviews but it does sound interesting and I like Martin Sheen. TRDB.

2) THE INVISIBLE WAR– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary calls attention to little-known facts about the high prevalence of rape within the ranks of America’s armed forces. Interviews with military personnel, elected officials and rape victims provide alarming evidence.”

Just a few reviews so far and they are excellent. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

1) FIRST POSITION– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fascinating documentary follows dancers training for the Youth America Grand Prix, one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions. The stakes are high: Their performances will determine the success or failure of the young girls’ dreams.”Very few reviews and they are OK. TRDB.

5/4/12- A good review in today’s NY Times that brought up a bit of controversy in the making of this documentary. TRDB.

5/22/12- A well done and interesting documentary about what it takes to make it in this field and what it’s like to be a child competitor. The controversy with this movie was related to the fact that the competition organizers had a hand in the making of the movie. In particular they helped select the subjects to be followed and were involved in other aspects as well. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

2) 5 BROKEN CAMERAS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this moving documentary, a Palestinian farmer chronicles his village’s nonviolent resistance to the presence of encroaching Israeli settlers and military. As camera after camera gets shot or otherwise destroyed, the farmer continues filming.”A few excellent reviews and mostly good ones. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) PEACE, LOVE & MISUNDERSTANDING–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Distraught over her impending divorce, conservative lawyer Diane seeks refuge with her mother, Grace, even though the two haven’t spoken in years. Diane’s children are thrilled with their free-spirited grandma, while Diane finds peace and romance.”Really bad reviews. TRDB.

2) STELLA DAYS–  2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A small town cinema in rural Ireland in the 1950s becomes the setting for a dramatic struggle between Rome and Hollywood, and a man and his conscience. Martin Sheen stars as Father Daniel Berry in a story about the excitement of the unknown versus the security of the familiar, as those in the town find themselves on the cusp of the modern but still clinging to the traditions of church and a cultural identity forged in very different times.”Poor early reviews but it does sound interesting and I like Martin Sheen. TRDB.

3) WOMAN IN THE FIFTH–  2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An American writer moves to Paris to be closer to his daughter and finds himself falling immediately on hard times. Befriended by a French Arab who offers him a job, Tom finds himself employed as a security agent as he struggles to write his second novel and see his daughter. Meanwhile, his personal life takes a turn as he becomes involved with a beguiling woman.” Good early professional reviews and just OK audience reaction. TRDB.6/15/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6/20/12- I liked the movie although I do have some questions. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

 

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE SUBURBS-

 

1) SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED -Bethel. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “A team of journalists is dispatched to find out who’s behind a classified advertisement seeking a companion for time travel, with payment on return. After tracking down their oddball prey, the team has to decide how best to approach their subject.”Very good early reviews. TRDB.

2) SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD– Bethel, Danbury, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. Synopsis by Netflix. ” As an asteroid hurtles toward Earth, a man whose wife has abandoned him spends the planet’s final days on a road trip to reunite with his high school sweetheart. But a lovely neighbor who tags along for the ride complicates his plans.”

   

Really bad reviews. TRDB.3) YOUR SISTER’S SISTER– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jack, who is mourning the death of his brother, has a complicated relationship with his best friend, Iris, who used to date his brother. Their chaotic situation becomes even more tangled when Jack has a drunken tryst with Iris’s flighty sister.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.

An article about the director in the NY Times on 5/6/12. TRDB.

6/15/12- Mixed review in today’s NY Times. TRDB

 

REPEATS-

 

1) BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTLE– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To make the most of their meager retirement savings, a group of British seniors relocates to India to live out their golden years at the Marigold Hotel. But upon arrival, they discover that the once-lavish resort has wilted considerably.”Rotten Tomatoes said– “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel follows a group of British retirees who decide to “outsource” their retirement to less expensive and seemingly exotic India. Enticed by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and bolstered with visions of a life of leisure, they arrive to find the palace a shell of its former self. Though the new environment is less luxurious than imagined, they are forever transformed by their shared experiences, discovering that life and love can begin again when you let go of the past.

Very good early reviews called this film a bit schmaltzy but well done. TRDB.

5/4/12- Today’s NY Times gave this an OK review. TRDB.

5/11/12- I agree with the reviewers. A few good lines, a great travelogue and not a heck of a lot much more. TRDB.

2) MOONRISE KINGDOM– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

6/11/12- A sweet, charming, quirky love story. See it!!! TRDB.

3)  BERNIE– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this black comedy inspired by real-life events, affable Texas mortician Bernie befriends the small town’s wealthiest widow and then kills her. But despite the suspicious nature of her death, no one wants to think anything but the best of Bernie.”

4/27/12- Good reviews in general and a difficult to interpret review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4)  PEACE, LOVE & MISUNDERSTANDING– Clearview 100.  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Distraught over her impending divorce, conservative lawyer Diane seeks refuge with her mother, Grace, even though the two haven’t spoken in years. Diane’s children are thrilled with their free-spirited grandma, while Diane finds peace and romance.”

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

JUNE 14, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

You can access this Newsletter and older reviews at- www.thereeldrbob.com

 

After a 2 week vacation I am back in action here.

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES FROM THE LAST 3 WEEKS-

 

1) PARIAH– Netflix

2) CRIME AFTER CRIME– Netflix

3) IN DARKNESS- On a plane

4) TAKE ME HOME– Netflix

5) MOONRISE KINGDOM– At the Theater

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW IN THE THEATER SINCE LAST TIME-

 

1) MOONRISE KINGDOM– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wes Anderson’s quirky drama follows the frantic search that ensues in a small New England town when two 12-year-olds fall in love and run away together. As the townsfolk hunt for the vanished kids, a storm causes even more profound communal upheaval.”Very good early reviews, especially from the professionals. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW AT HOME SINCE LAST TIME-

 

1) PARIAH– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Brooklyn teen Alike (Adepero Oduye) is a model child around her devoutly religious family, but she sheds the good-girl image to reveal a harder side during a nightclub excursion with butch pal Laura (Pernell Walker) in this coming-of-age tale of urban identity and sexual expression. With curfew looming and her parents none the wiser, Alike must catch the bus back home, where she faces the complex negotiation of her contradictory worlds.” At Sundance 2011. Great reviews. TRDB.5/24/12- I liked this movie very much. A very difficult scene to watch between mother and daughter at the end of the movie. TRDB. Netflix.

 

5) TAKE ME HOME– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Thom is an unlicensed New York cabbie who takes on the fare of his life when a woman asks him to drive her to California to see her ailing father. In classic rom-com style, the chemistry between the two builds as they make their way west.”Fairly good audience reviews so far. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, JUNE 19-

 

1) MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “An illiterate handyman named Germain (Gérard Depardieu) befriends Margueritte (Gisèle Casadesus), a highly educated 95-year-old woman. The two couldn’t be more different, with the oafish Germain bewildered by the literature that gives Margueritte such pleasure. Slowly the two form an unusual and intense bond, leading them to a greater understanding of their place in the world, and in each other’s lives.” Early professional reviews are positive but weak for audiences. TRDB.9/16/11- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OPENING THIS WEEK-

 

1) THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH– 2012. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An American writer moves to Paris to be closer to his daughter and finds himself falling immediately on hard times. Befriended by a French Arab who offers him a job, Tom finds himself employed as a security agent as he struggles to write his second novel and see his daughter. Meanwhile, his personal life takes a turn as he becomes involved with a beguiling woman.” Good early professional reviews and just OK audience reaction. TRDB.

 

2) PATANG- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This colorful drama is set in the Indian city of Ahmedabad, where each year a million kites take to the sky in the annual festival of the Uttarayan. Against this backdrop, six characters’ divergent paths intersect.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

 

3) YOUR SISTER’S SISTER– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jack, who is mourning the death of his brother, has a complicated relationship with his best friend, Iris, who used to date his brother. Their chaotic situation becomes even more tangled when Jack has a drunken tryst with Iris’s flighty sister.” Excellent reviews. TRDB.An article about the director in the NY Times on 5/6/12. TRDB.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

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

 

2) GOODBYE FIRST LOVE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this lyrical drama, 15-year-old Camille must deal with her devastation when an older boy with whom she’s fallen in love leaves to travel through South America. Over the next few years, she grows into a young woman and tries to love again.” Fair early reviews. TRDB.4/20/12- An OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 

NEW-

 

1) POLISSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This French drama presents a fictionalized but well-researched portrait of the juvenile protection division of the Paris court system, following a documentarian as she films the employees in the department and the children under its authority.” Good early reviews. TRDB.5/18/12- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

REPEATS-

 

 

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

 

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

 

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE BURBS-

 

1) LOLA VERSUS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “When her fiancé dumps her right before the wedding, 29-year-old Lola finds herself single for the first time in almost a decade. Desperate to figure out where her life goes next, quirky Lola seeks advice from her two best friends and hippie parents.”An article about the actress Greta Gerwig in the NY Times on 5/6/12. TRDB.

 

REPEATS-

 

1) THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To make the most of their meager retirement savings, a group of British seniors relocates to India to live out their golden years at the Marigold Hotel. But upon arrival, they discover that the once-lavish resort has wilted considerably.”Rotten Tomatoes said– “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel follows a group of British retirees who decide to “outsource” their retirement to less expensive and seemingly exotic India. Enticed by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and bolstered with visions of a life of leisure, they arrive to find the palace a shell of its former self. Though the new environment is less luxurious than imagined, they are forever transformed by their shared experiences, discovering that life and love can begin again when you let go of the past.

 

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

 

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

 

For Films everywhere go to- www.fandango.com  

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR BOB