The Reel Dr. Bob

FILM REVIEWS #404

3/3/12- I thought this movie was great! TRDB.

1/20/12- Very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3/2/12- Good acting and some tension make this easier to watch but it was too long and not very involving for me. TRDB.  Comcast On-Demand.

2) PROJECT NIM– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Oscar-winning filmmaker James Marsh (Man on Wire) peers inside the landmark 1970s experiment for an unflinching look at Nim, the chimp whom scientists raised as human and taught sign language to prove that apes can communicate like humans. Firsthand accounts, previously unseen archival footage and powerful images tell of Nim‘s life in a human bubble. The result is a fascinating exposé on Nim‘s true nature — and a glimpse into our own.” Great reviews. TRDB.

3/4/12- A remarkable documentary that said as much about the humans involved as it did about the chimp. TRDB. Netflix.

3) SALLAH– 1964. Synopsis by Netflix. “After immigrating to the promised land — the new state of Israel — Sallah clashes with government officials and his kibbutz community in this 1964 comedy directed by Ephraim Kishon and starring Topol. Disgusted by overbearing bureaucracy and what he feels are unrealistic communal expectations, Sallah (Topol) butts heads with leaders and neighbors as he tries to acquire housing for his family. Gila Almagor and Arik Einstein also star.”

3/5/12- A funny satire of early life in the new State of Israel. TRDB. I borrowed it from a friend but it’s also available from Netflix.

4) THE RUM DIARY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Eager to flee his humdrum life in 1950s New York, booze-loving journalist Paul (Johnny Depp) moves to Puerto Rico and begins writing for a local rag, but his life becomes unhinged when he falls for a gorgeous woman (Amber Heard) and clashes with her shifty fiancé (Aaron Eckhart). Written and directed by Bruce Robinson, this adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson’s early novel also stars Richard Jenkins as Paul’s editor.”

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

3/5/12- Most reviews were bad but not as bad as the movie. I turned it off. What was Johnny Depp thinking? TRDB. Netflix.

5) A WEEK ALONE– 2007. Synopsis by Netflix. “An affluent Buenos Aires couple goes on vacation, leaving their children at home with only the family maid to keep an eye on them. But the peaceful dynamic the parents expect is upended when the maid’s teenage brother shows up unexpectedly.”

3/6/12- So this is what happens when you have an idle, unsupervised group of kids? Miserable movie. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) MY JOY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a wrong turn takes truck driver Georgy (Viktor Nemets) into unfamiliar Russian countryside, he’s drawn into the mix of strange locals, including corrupt cops, a war veteran, a prostitute and a mysterious Gypsy woman — all of whom may lead him to a dead end. Russian documentary filmmaker Sergei Loznitsa directs this drama, a Cannes festival entry that co-stars Olga Shuvalova and Vlad Ivanov.”

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

3) YOUNG ADULT– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taken aback when she receives a letter from an old boyfriend announcing that he’s just had a baby with his wife, divorced fiction writer Mavis Gary decides to return to her small hometown and reconnect with her former lover.” Great audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.

12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and very good ones elsewhere– both professional and audience. TRDB.

12/16/11- Great, no. But an OK comedic drama that almost makes us like an unlikable character. TRDB.  

4) HOUSE OF TOLERANCE–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Bertrand Bonello makes life in an upscale Parisian bordello at the beginning of the 20th century the focus of this drama, which revolves around the working girls who ply their trade there — including one who’s been disfigured by a client.” Mixed reviews. TRDB.

5) LOOSIES– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “A New York City pickpocket is forced to reexamine his choices when he crosses paths with a one-night stand who informs him she’s having his baby. At the same time, he’s trying to stay one step ahead of the detective whose badge he stole.” Weak professional reviews and some weak audience reviews also. TRDB.

6) STUCK BETWEEN STATIONS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this romantic tale of second glances, war-weary soldier Casper is on a brief leave when he bumps into childhood friend Rebecca at a packed party, and the pair set off on a Minneapolis night crawl that sends them through their own bittersweet past.”

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

7) MELANCHOLIA– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This inventive drama charts the disintegrating relationship between newly married twentysomething Justine and her melancholy sister, Claire, just as Earth hurtles toward certain collision with a newly discovered planet.”

9/18/11- An article (not a review) about this in today’s NY Times. Starring Kirsten Dunst. TRDB.

10/11- Great reviews but my friends hated it and called it pretentious. TRDB.

8)THE SWELL SEASON– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “To cope with his father’s terminal cancer, a troubled high schooler begins telling everyone — including his new girlfriend — that he has the same disease. But keeping up the ruse proves just as difficult as dealing with real life.”

10/21/11- Fairly good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) 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.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) GOOD FOR NOTHING– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After kidnapping a spirited English woman with plans to have his way with her, a Wild West outlaw with performance issues seeks remedies for his impotence from Chinese and Indian healers while the two run from a posse on their tail.” Good audience reviews but I haven’t seen any professional ones as yet. Sounds interesting. TRDB.

4) 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.

5) 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.

3/3/12- I thought this movie was great! TRDB.

7) RETURN- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a tour of duty in the Middle East, Kelli expects her life to return to normal when she rejoins her husband and two children at home. But she finds herself unable to fit in as she realizes her family and friends have changed during her absence.”

2/10/12- OK reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

Add comment March 8th, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #403

  MARCH 1, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:  

THIS NEWSLETTER IS OUT A BIT LATE AS I WAS “STUCK” IN BOSTON DUE TO THE WEATHER CONDITIONS YESTERDAY–  

YOU CAN ACCESS THIS NEWSLETTER AND PAST MOVIE REVIEWS AT-

www.thereeldrbob.com  

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-  

1) THE FISH CHILD– Netflix Streaming

2) QUEEN OF THE SUN- Netflix

3) THE LIE– Netflix Streaming

4) HOW TO DIE IN OREGON– Netflix   _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER- NONE   _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-  

1) TODAY’S SPECIAL– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “After he gets passed over for promotion, haute cuisine sous chef Samir (Aasif Mandvi) quits to pursue his dream of cooking in Paris, but an emergency forces him to take over his family’s shabby Indian restaurant in Queens. Taxi driver-turned-chef Akbar (Naseeruddin Shah) shares his passion for Indian food with Samir, whose romance with fellow chef Carrie (Jess Weixler) fuels his desire to prove himself and save the restaurant.”

Fair review in NY Times 11/19/10. Good reviews in general. TRDB.

2/24/12- A lightweight Hollywood/Bollywood that did have some merit. I watched it through. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) THE LIE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Sometimes, you reeeeally don’t want to go to work. And sometimes that feeling is so strong that you’ll do anything to get out of it — even if that means telling a lie that has the power to completely change the trajectory of your life. Joshua Leonard (who co-starred in the indie breakout hit The Blair Witch Project) makes his directorial debut with this indie drama based on a short story by T.C. Boyle.” Winner at Sundance 2011.

A few good early reviews. TRDB.

11/18/11- An excellent review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2/24/12- A very well acted and interesting story about relationships, particularly spousal, and mid- course corrections in life. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) THE FISH CHILD– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wealthy Argentinean teen Lala has been gaga for her family’s maid, Ailin, since the day she joined the household three years ago. Now 16, Lala finds her affections returned, and the pair is planning to run off together in this romantic thriller.” Good professional reviews and average audience ones. TRDB.

2/25/12- I enjoyed this movie despite a bit of confusion with the back and forth in time nature of the drama. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) QUEEN OF THE SUN– 2011. Synopsis by RottenTomatoes. “What Are the Bees Telling Us? is a profound, alternative look at the global bee crisis from Taggart Siegel, director of THE REAL DIRT ON FARMER JOHN. Taking us on a journey through the catastrophic disappearance of bees.” Very good reviews and a good review in the NY Times on 6/10/11. TRDB.

2/26/12- An enlightening documentary that has application for other issues besides just bees. TRDB. Netflix.

5) PIANOMANIA– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engaging documentary profiles Stefan Knüpfer, the master tuner for Steinway & Sons, who is tasked with the often-demanding job of pairing world-famous pianists with the right instrument and supervising all aspects of each piano’s performance.”

11/4/11- Fairly good review for the documentary in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2/27/12- Honestly, this was one of the more boring movies I’ve seen in a long time and I was sorely disappointed. I lasted 30 minutes. TRDB. Netflix.

6) HOW TO DIE IN OREGON– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Director Peter Richardson’s documentary takes you into the lives of terminally ill men and women as they consider availing themselves of physician-assisted suicide, which is legal in Oregon under the state’s 1994 Death with Dignity Act. As patients discuss their wishes with families, friends and doctors, Richardson examines all sides of this weighty issue and even documents an assisted suicide as it occurs.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

3/1/12- An extraordinary documentary about the Oregon law but even more than that, about some of the brave people who took advantage of it. TRDB. Netflix.

  ________________________________________________________________________________________   CAME TO NETFLIX ON 2/21 WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE-  

1) BLANK CITY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Filmmaker Celine Danhier directs this lively documentary that retraces the birth of the underground film movement in New York in the early 1980s, spurred by the work of artists like Richard Kern, Casandra Stark and John Waters. As part of what author and filmmaker Nick Zedd coined the Cinema of Transgression, these low-budget films were noted for being chock-full of explicit sex, gratuitous violence and dark humor.” Good reviews. TRDB.   _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH  6-  

1) FOOTLOOSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This musical remake of the infectious 1984 hit finds dance-lovin’, big-city kid Ren MacCormack stuck in a small town where dancing is illegal. As he rebels against the town and its influential Rev. Moore, Ren falls for the pastor’s lovely daughter.” Mixed early reviews. TRDB.

10/14/11- Poor review in today’s NY Times and even some of the positive reviews I read were qualified. I don’t plan to see it. TRDB.

2) THE SKIN I LIVE IN– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Robert Ledgard, a brilliant plastic surgeon, seeks to overcome the grief of his late wife’s disfigurement in a fiery car crash by inventing skin that is impervious to injury, but his experiments on a living woman hasten his descent into madness.”

10/14/11- By Almodovar, this film got a weird but great review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) LIKE CRAZY– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “American Jacob (Anton Yelchin) and British Anna (Felicity Jones) meet and fall madly in love at college in Los Angeles, but must make their relationship work long distance when Anna returns to London. With an ocean between them, their trust is tested, forcing them to confront the idea that their love may be impermanent. Or can it survive against the odds? Charlie Bewley, Oliver Muirhead, Finola Hughes and Ben York Jones also star.” Mentioned in NY Times on 1/22/11 re Sundance. Excellent reviews in general. TRDB.

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

4) SENNA– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fast-paced documentary profiles Ayrton Senna, one of the greatest drivers in the history of Formula One racing, and a hero in his native Brazil. Using only archival footage, director Asif Kapadia examines the idealistic Senna‘s inspiring legend. Charismatic, compassionate and a dedicated risk-taker, Senna was known for his integrity in a sport often fraught with cutthroat politics, and also for the deep religious faith that gave him purpose.” At Sundance 2011.

A good (not great) review in the NY Times on 8/12/11. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   OPENING THIS WEEK-  

1) 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.” Good early audience reaction but no professional reviews as yet. TRDB.   

2) BOY– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Filmed in his native New Zealand, this comedy from writer-director Taika Waititi (Eagle vs. Shark) follows 11-year-old Boy and his younger brother, Rocky, whose rich fantasy lives are stopped cold when their father returns home after years away. Although Boy has imagined that his father (Waititi) is a dashing, accomplished hero who is related to Michael Jackson, in reality he is a failed gangster seeking to restore his family’s faith in him.” Good audience reviews but no professional reviews as yet. TRDB.  

3) LAST DAYS HERE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this poignant documentary portrait, an aged and gaunt Bobby Liebling — the former lead singer of the heavy metal act Pentagram — rallies to restart his life after decades of disappointment and drug addiction.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.  

4) LET THE BULLETS FLY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this comedic Western set in 1920s China, outlaw Zhang hijacks a train carrying the governor and a whole lot of loot. When the train derails, Zhang hatches a scheme to impersonate the governor with the help of the official’s shady assistant.” Excellent early reviews. TRDB.   _________________________________________________________________________________________   FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-  

1) PUTIN’S KISS– 2012. Synopsis by RottenTomatoes. “Putin’s Kiss portrays contemporary life in Russia through the story of Masha, a 19 year-old girl who is a member of Nashi, a political youth organization connected with the Kremlin. Extremely ambitious, the young Masha quickly rises to the top of Nashi, but begins to question her involvement when a dissident journalist whom she has befriended is savagely attacked.” Very good reviews.  TRDB.

2/17/12- Poor review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) MICHAEL– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Michael seems like an ordinary — even boring — middle-aged guy. But after work, he returns home and unlocks the basement cell where he keeps 10-year-old Wolfgang. This harrowing drama chronicles five months of Wolfgang’s captivity.” This sounds weird but it got very good reviews. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMCAST ON-DEMAND-  

NEW-  

1) IN THE LAND OF BLOOD AND HONEY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actress Angelina Jolie makes her directorial debut with a tale of marriage set against the violence of the Bosnian War. Ajla and her husband struggle with to keep their relationship alive, a battle that distracts them from the nation’s upheaval.” Good audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.

12/23/11- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE–  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After escaping from a violent cult in rural New York, Martha (Elizabeth Olsen) tries to reconnect with her estranged sister, Lucy (Sarah Paulson), and Lucy’s well-to-do husband, Ted (Hugh Dancy), but the brainwashing she endured continues to prevent her from forming an identity of her own. Overwhelmed with paranoia, guilt and shame, Martha isolates herself until Lucy begins to suspect her sister’s emotional trauma has deeper underlying causes.” Winner at Sundance 2011.

10/21/11-  Only a fair review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

11/8/11- An interesting and very well acted psychological thriller and I liked it. TRDB.  

REPEATS-  

1) ANGELS CREST- I liked this one

2) ANONYMOUS- Fair reviews at best and I didn’t like it

3) ANOTHER EARTH- Good reviews but I did not like it

4) BEGINNERS- I liked this very much

5) A BETTER LIFE- I enjoyed this one very much

6) BLACK SNAKE MOAN- Very good movie from a few years ago- never got recognized but I liked it

7) CRAZY, STUPID LOVE- I actually enjoyed this movie

8)THE DEBT- Good reviews

9) DECLARATION OF WAR- Good reviews

10) DIRTY GIRL- A few good reviews but the NY Times hated it

11) DRIVE- I liked it

12) FIRST GRADER- Fair reviews at best

13) FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS- Surprisingly good reviews but I didn’t like it and turned it off

14) THE GUARD- Very good reviews. I thought it was OK

15) THE HELP- Good reviews- I’ll see it eventually

16) HIGHER GROUND- I liked this very much

17) I’M GLAD MY MOTHER IS ALIVE- The NY Times gave it a good review and I liked it as well

18)THE IDES OF MARCH- I enjoyed the movie

19) KNUCKLE- I saw this and liked it

20) THE LIE- Very good reviews and I just saw it and liked it- see “above”

21) LIFE, ABOVE ALL- I enjoyed this movie much and highly recommend it

22) MAN ON A MISSION- Fair reviews 2

3) MIDNIGHT IN PARIS- Great movie

24) MONEYBALL- I liked it

25) MOZART’S SISTER- I saw this months ago and enjoyed it

26) NEWLYWEDS- I liked it a lot and all of Edward Burns’ work as well 2

7) POETRY- Good movie

28) SARAH’S KEY- Very good

29) SIDEWALLS- Can’t say I really liked it but it was different. I liked the ending

30) TAKE SHELTER- An excellent movie- you should definitely see this one

31) THUNDER SOUL- An OK documentary- worth seeing

32) THE TREE OF LIFE- I did not like this one at all

33) URBANIZED- Great review in NY Times

34) WARRIOR- I liked this one very much  

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- NONE

REPEATS-

1) A SEPARATION– Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

2/26/12- Just won Best Foreign Film Oscar. TRDB.

2)  THE ARTIST– Bethel, Danbury, Clearview 100, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

2/26/12- Just won Best Picture Oscar. TRDB.

3) THE IRON LADY– Bethel, Clearview 100, Saw Mill Hawthorne. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Meryl Streep provides a subtle and nuanced portrait of Margaret Thatcher, the first female prime minister of Britain, whose political career and determination changed the rules that had limited women’s opportunities for leadership.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

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

4) THE DESCENDANTS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his wife is killed in a Waikiki boating accident, distant father Matt King (George Clooney) begins an iffy journey to repair his fractured relationship with his two daughters. But he’s also trying to decide whether to let go of some valuable family real estate. Judy Greer, Beau Bridges and Matthew Lillard co-star in this tragic-comic tale of legacy and unexpected loss based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

11/26/11- A very thoughtful and well acted family drama. Humor interspersed with all of the serious material lightened up an otherwise overwhelming drama. Recommended highly. TRDB.

5) THIN ICE– Bethel. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Midwest insurance salesman Mickey Prohaska (Greg Kinnear) hatches a get-rich-quick scheme that depends on him gaining possession of a rare and precious violin, but his planned score results in wild and unexpected consequences. Alan Arkin, Billy Crudup and Lea Thompson co-star in this meditation on lying and its consequences, written by sisters Jill and Karen Sprecher (Thirteen Conversations About One Thing).” Only fair reviews so far. TRDB.

6) MY WEEK WITH MARILYN– Clearview 100, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While filming a movie in England, Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe slips away with a young Brit for a week of self-discovery and frivolity. The story that ensues is based on the real-life memoirs of Colin Clark, once assistant to Sir Laurence Olivier.” Good audience reaction and mixed professional reviews. TRDB.

11/28/11- I liked the movie but loved Michelle Williams as the breathless Monroe. The screenplay was just mediocre. TRDB.  

7) HUGO 3D– Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his father dies, 12-year-old orphan Hugo takes up residence behind the walls of a Parisian train station. There, he meets Isabelle, the daughter of filmmaker Georges Méliès, who holds the key to Hugo‘s destiny.” Great reviews. TRDB.

2/18/12- A delightful story and wonderful in 3D as well. TRDB. For ALL ages. Go see it or rent it at home!! 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
The Reel Dr. Bob

Add comment March 1st, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #402

Add comment February 23rd, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #401

Add comment February 16th, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #399

  FEBRUARY 2, 2012

DEAR FRIENDS:   QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-  

1) LOVE CRIME– Netflix Streaming

2) THE LOVING STORY– Theater

3) THE LAST LIONS– Netflix

4) HAPPY, HAPPY– Netflix   _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT THE THEATER-  

1) THE LOVING STORY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This riveting documentary profiles Mildred and Richard Loving, who were arrested hours after their 1958 wedding for breaking Virginia’s laws against interracial marriage. In 1967, their case was heard before the Supreme Court and changed the nation.”

1/31/12- I saw this at a special showing with the director Nancy Biurski at the Jacob Burns Film Center. A great documentary with an impressive trove of archival footage. The movie was thought provoking and has analogies to life today in various parts of society both here and abroad. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-  

1) LOVE CRIME- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “With a nod to the machinations of All About Eve and Dangerous Liaisons, French director Alain Corneau delivers a chilling tale of two ambitious women whose professional appetites grow dangerously personal. At first, things are fine between senior executive Christine (Kristin Scott Thomas) and her eager young assistant, Isabelle (Ludivine Sagnier). But when Christine abuses her position of power, Isabelle resorts to revenge — and insubordination.”

9/2/11- An OK review in today’s NY Times. Friends saw this and thought it was OK too. TRDB.

1/27/12- Very well done, clever and suspenseful. I liked it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) INSIDE HANA’S SUITCASE– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fascinating documentary traces the quest of a group of Japanese schoolchildren and their teacher, Fumiko Ishioka, as they try to uncover the history of a suitcase donated to the Tokyo Holocaust Museum and inscribed with the name “Hanna Brady.” Discovering that 13-year-old Hanna was a Czechoslovakian Jew interred in a concentration camp, the group finds her brother, George, in Toronto, who shares his memories of Hanna.” Great reviews. TRDB.

1/30/12- I know that this film got rave reviews but I found it just OK. A moving story but I felt that there were way too many re-enacted scenes by actors. The movie is really about school children learning about the Holocaust and about hate in general. TRDB. Netflix.

3) THE LAST LIONS– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Narrated by actor Jeremy Irons, this thrilling documentary follows an African lioness named Ma di Tau as she and her cubs flee a devastating fire, then struggle to live in new territory amidst dangerous predators and a lethal pride of rival lions. Besides being a harrowing tale of survival, this film from directors Dereck and Beverly Joubert illuminates the urgent plight of all Africa’s lions, whose population has reached dangerously low levels.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

1/31/12- Beautiful photography and an interesting story of the evolution of a pride of lions and one lioness and her cubs in particular. Well worth seeing. TRDB.

4) PUNCTURE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Drug-addicted attorney Mike and his business partner Paul take on a case involving an emergency room nurse who has been pricked by an infected needle. Uncovering a web of corporate conspiracies, Mike and Paul quickly find themselves outmatched.” Mediocre reviews, both professional and by audiences. TRDB.

2/1/12- A poorly put together movie but the message is loud and clear and I did enjoy it. TRDB. Netflix.

5) HAPPY HAPPY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in a remote Norwegian town, this black comedy centers on cheerful housewife Kaja (Agnes Kittlesen), who is contentedly wedded to her loveless high school sweetheart but lands in hot water when a risqué encounter with her urbane new neighbor, Sigve (Henrik Rafaelsen), goes too far. With a full-blown affair on her hands and Christmas just around the corner, Kaja falls back on blinding optimism to get her through the snowballing scandal.” Fairly good professional reviews and average audience ones. TRDB.

2/1/12- Well acted and I found this small movie very interesting. TRDB. Netflix.

 _______________________________________________________________________________________ 

COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 7-  

1) CATERPILLAR– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1940, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the people of a rural Japanese village eagerly await a hero’s return. But Lt. Kurokawa’s wife, Shigeko, receives a horrifying shock: Her husband has lost his arms and legs. Nevertheless, the villagers depend on Shigeko to do her duty to her country by caring for her mutilated husband. Shinobu Terajima, Keigo Kasuya and Emi Masuda star in this historical drama about the grim aftermath of war.” Average audience reviews and excellent professional reviews including a few great ones. TRDB.  

2) ANONYMOUS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Who was Shakespeare? This Elizabethan drama imagines that the man we call the Bard really didn’t pen his body of timeless plays. The stages of London erupt in intrigue as the real author of the classics credited to Shakespeare comes to light.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/28/11- Review in today’s NY Times is “not bad” but it sounds bad to me. TRDB.

3) 3– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Berliners Hanna (Sophie Rois) and Simon (Sebastian Schipper), a couple in their 40s, have grown restlessly comfortable in their marriage. Independently, each meets and romances Adam (Devid Striesow), a handsome younger man. When Hanna becomes pregnant, all three must face what they’ve tried to ignore. Each man has reasons for staying with Hanna — and staying together. Tom Tykwer (Run Lola Run) helms this entry in the 2010 Venice Film Festival.”

9/16/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) FIREFLIES IN THE GARDEN– 2008. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the wake of an unexpected family tragedy, novelist Michael Taylor (Ryan Reynolds) is forced to confront his fractured relationship with his father (Willem Dafoe) while dealing with painful memories of his mother (Julia Roberts), a woman who moved mountains to protect him. Emily Watson, Hayden Panettiere, Ioan Gruffudd and Carrie-Anne Moss also star in this semiautobiographical tale of rage and redemption from writer-director Dennis Lee.”

10/14/11- A weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

5) PROJECT NIM– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Oscar-winning filmmaker James Marsh (Man on Wire) peers inside the landmark 1970s experiment for an unflinching look at Nim, the chimp whom scientists raised as human and taught sign language to prove that apes can communicate like humans. Firsthand accounts, previously unseen archival footage and powerful images tell of Nim‘s life in a human bubble. The result is a fascinating exposé on Nim‘s true nature — and a glimpse into our own.” Great reviews. TRDB.

6) KNUCKLE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Members of two Irish families continue an ages-old grudge and settle their differences with violence in this documentary directed by Ian Palmer. James, a member of the Quinn McDonaghs, doesn’t hesitate when challenged to bare-knuckle boxing matches with his cousins from the Joyce clan. The director spent a dozen years traveling with members of both families to get remarkable footage of their ongoing rivalry.”

12/9/11- Good review in today’s NY Times and in general. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   OPENING THIS WEEK-  

1) 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.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.  

2) WINDFALL- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Exposing the downside of wind turbines, director Laura Israel’s illuminating documentary underlines the harmful facets of harnessing wind power, including the constant noise and potential for financial opportunism. The film focuses on an impoverished rural community in upstate New York, where residents — enticed by economic incentives — leased their land for the erection of turbines but now wonder whether the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.” Mixed early reviews. TRDB.   _________________________________________________________________________________________   FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-  

1) THE CONQUEST– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fact-based drama recounts the events surrounding the 2007 election of French president Nicolas Sarkozy through an ironic lens, contrasting Sarkozy’s dynamic public profile with his inability to save his marriage to his second wife, Cécilia.” A few poor reviews. TRDB.

11/11/11- Poor review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) LULA, THE SON OF BRAZIL– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from a biography by journalist Denise Paraná, this big-budget epic chronicles the formative years of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva — aka Lula — who overcame formidable obstacles to become the president of Brazil in 2003. Lula and his six young siblings live in poverty and are sent to work early; an accident on the job drives the adult Lula (Rui Ricardo Diaz) into union activism, planting the seeds for a future in politics.” Fair  reviews at best. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMCAST ON-DEMAND-   NEW-  

1) ONE DAY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a romantic tryst on college graduation night, Emma and Dexter pursue separate dreams. This romantic drama based on a novel of the same name checks in with them each year on the same date, tracking their personal and professional progress.” Poor reviews. TRDB.

8/19/11- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

1/2/12- An old fashioned romance that I enjoyed despite it’s being predictable. TRDB. Netflix.

2) MOZART’S SISTER– 2011. Synopsis by RottenTomatoes. “A speculative account of Maria Anna “Nannerl” Mozart (Marie Feret), five years older than Wolfgang (David Moreau) and a musical prodigy in her own right. Originally the featured performer, she has given way to Wolfgang as the main attraction, as their strict but loving father Leopold (Marc Barbe) tours his talented offspring in front of the royal courts of pre-French revolution Europe. Approaching marriageable age and now forbidden to play the violin or compose, Nannerl chafes at the limitations imposed on her gender but a friendship with the son and daughter of Louis XV offers an alternative.”

8/19/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

9/25/11- A bit slow but a very interesting film about gender issues, music and independence. I liked it. TRDB. Netflix.

  REPEATS-  

1) ALBATROSS- The NY Times liked it

2) ANGELS CREST- I liked this one- see “above” for my review

3) ANOTHER EARTH- Good reviews but I did not like it

4) BEGINNERS- I liked this very much

5) BRIDESMAIDS- Not worth the 2 hours for a few laughs

6) CRAZY, STUPID LOVE- I actually enjoyed this movie

7) THE DEBT- Good reviews

8)DIRTY GIRL- A few good reviews but the NY Times hated it

9) FIRST GRADER- Fair reviews at best

10) FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS- Surprisingly good reviews but I didn’t like it and turned it off

11) THE GUARD- Very good reviews. I thought it was OK

12) HANNA- Weak screenplay but I did like the movie

13) THE HELP- Good reviews

14) HIGHER GROUND- I liked this very much

15) HOUSE OF PLEASURES- Also called HOUSE OF TOLERANCE- A few reviews and they are mixed

16) I’M GLAD MY MOTHER IS ALIVE- The NY Times gave it a good review

17)THE IDES OF MARCH- I enjoyed the movie

18)JANE EYRE- Just OK reviews but I liked it

19) THE LIE- Very good reviews

20) LIFE, ABOVE ALL- I enjoyed this movie much and highly recommend it

21) LOOSIES- No reviews as yet

22) MAN ON A MISSION- Fair reviews

23) MIDNIGHT IN PARIS- Great movie

24) MONEYBALL- I liked it

25) SARAH’S KEY- Very good

26) SLEEPING BEAUTY- Mixed reviews with some OK and some terrible ones as well

27)THE TREE OF LIFE- I did not like this one at all

28) WARRIOR- I liked this one very much  

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- NONE   REPEATS-  

1) ABERT NOBBS– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Having for decades disguised herself as a man while working as a butler in a posh 19th-century Dublin hotel, a woman calling herself Albert Nobbs reconsiders her charade when a handsome painter arrives on the scene.” Weak professional reviews but good audience reaction. TRDB.

2) EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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. TRDB.

3) THE IRON LADY– Bethel, Danbury, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Meryl Streep provides a subtle and nuanced portrait of Margaret Thatcher, the first female prime minister of Britain, whose political career and determination changed the rules that had limited women’s opportunities for leadership.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

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

4) THE ARTIST– Bethel, Danbury, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

5) MY WEEK WITH MARILYN– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While filming a movie in England, Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe slips away with a young Brit for a week of self-discovery and frivolity. The story that ensues is based on the real-life memoirs of Colin Clark, once assistant to Sir Laurence Olivier.” Good audience reaction and mixed professional reviews. TRDB.

11/28/11- I liked the movie, loved Michelle Williams as the breathless Monroe but the screenplay was just mediocre. TRDB.  

6) THE DESCENDANTS– Danbury, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his wife is killed in a Waikiki boating accident, distant father Matt King (George Clooney) begins an iffy journey to repair his fractured relationship with his two daughters. But he’s also trying to decide whether to let go of some valuable family real estate. Judy Greer, Beau Bridges and Matthew Lillard co-star in this tragic-comic tale of legacy and unexpected loss based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

11/26/11- A very thoughtful and well acted family drama. Humor intersperced with all of the serious material lightened up an otherwise overwhelming drama. Recommended highly. TRDB.

7) WAR HORSE- Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from a novel by Michael Morpurgo, this majestic World War I drama centers on Devon lad Albert and his steadfast horse, Joey, whose faithful bond cannot be shaken — even when Joey is sold to the cavalry and sent off to France.” Good reviews although it’s been snubbed by the Golden Globe nominations. TRDB.

12/23/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

12/25/11- Loads of schmaltz and corn and as far as I’m concerned a real disappointment. TRDB.

8)TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “John Le Carré’s classic thriller of Cold War espionage follows an English spy as he returns to MI-6 under a cloud of suspicion. In the years since he was sacked by the agency, some suspect he’s become an operative for the Soviet Union.”

12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. None of my friends liked 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
The Reel Dr. Bob

Add comment February 2nd, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #398

Add comment January 26th, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #397

JANUARY 5, 2012
DEAR FRIENDS:

     I am still in Florida and this issue of my Newsletter will be for the next 3 weeks whenever possible. My next Newsletter will be from back home on or about Jan. 26.
     I am using a different computer as mine is sick at the moment so please excuse any change in appearance or format.

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) TYRANNOSAUR- Theater
2) THE ARTIST- Theater
3) THE WAY- Theater
4) TUESDAY, AFTER CHRISTMAS- Netflix
5) MY REINCARNATION- Theater
6) WARRIOR- Netflix
7) ONE DAY- Netflix

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW AT THE THEATER SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) WAR HORSE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from a novel by Michael Morpurgo, this majestic World War I drama centers on Devon lad Albert and his steadfast horse, Joey, whose faithful bond cannot be shaken — even when Joey is sold to the cavalry and sent off to France.” Good reviews although it’s been snubbed by the Golden Globe nominations. TRDB.
12/23/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
12/25/11- Loads of schmaltz and corn and as far as I’m concerned a real disappointment. TRDB.

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) THE WAY- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his son dies while hiking the famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in the Pyrenees, Tom (Martin Sheen) flies to France to claim the remains. Looking for insights into his estranged child’s life, he decides to complete the 500-mile mountain trek to Spain. Tom soon joins up with other travelers and realizes they’re all searching for something. Emilio Estevez writes and directs this drama about self-discovery.” Very good professional reviews but so far only poor audience reaction. TRDB.
9/18/11- An article (not a review) in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
10/7/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
12/26/11- I liked this movie very much. Enjoyed the story and the acting. TRDB.

4) MY REINCARNATION- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While fighting to preserve his spiritual legacy, a Tibetan spiritual master must also do battle with his own son, who has no interest in his destiny. The story that unfolds is a fascinating father-son conflict.”
10/28/11- An interesting review in today’s NY Times and I’ll try to see this movie. TRDB.
12/27/11- A very interesting and well made documentary and I’d definitely recommend it. TRDB.

5) TYRANNOSAUR– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Joseph (Peter Mullan), a doomed, damaged petty thief finds love in the most unlikely place when he literally runs into pious Hannah (Olivia Colman). He thinks her religious nature makes her better off than him, which is far from the truth. As Hannah opens up to him, Joseph discovers a woman as damaged and hungry for human contact as he. Eddie Marsan co-stars in the writing and directing debut of actor Paddy Considine.” Good early reviews. TRDB.
11/18/11- A barely OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
12/23/11- I liked the movie but would have liked it more if I could understand the English. Great acting! TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW AT HOME SINCE THE LAST ISSUE-

1) BRIGHTON ROCK– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In hopes of silencing a waitress (Andrea Riseborough) who saw him kill another criminal, a young thug (Sam Riley) decides to romance her and suss out how much she knows. But at what point does his premeditated plot blossom into true passion? And are either party’s motives 100 percent pure? John Hurt and Helen Mirren co-star in writer-director Rowan Joffe’s film adaptation of Graham Greene’s novel.” I’ve seen just a few reviews and they are not good. TRDB.
8/27/11- Good review in today’s NY Tmes. TRDB.
12/30/11- Even taking this film as a crime spoof didn’t help. I lost all interest and turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

2) WARRIOR– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in the violent and merciless world of mixed martial arts combat, director Gavin O’Connor’s tale of two brothers at war with each other features plenty of wild ring action as well as emotional family drama. Tom Conlon (Tom Hardy) and older brother Brendan (Joel Edgerton) have pursued separate lives, but when Tom returns home to ask his father’s help in preparing for a championship bout, events lead the siblings back into each other’s paths.”
9/9/11- Good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
12/23/11- Good fight movie despite it’s predictability. I’d recommend it. TRDB. Netflix.

3) JULIA’S EYES– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “This heart-pounding thriller follows Julia (Belén Rueda), who is losing her eyesight to a degenerative disease. When her twin sister, Sara, supposedly commits suicide, Julia suspects that a murderer is on the loose — and that she’s next. As she investigates with her husband, Isaac (Lluís Homar), Julia realizes that a man is watching her, but her credibility is weakened by her worsening vision and the fact that she can’t identify her pursuer.” Good professional reviews and just OK audience ones. TRDB.
12/22/11- This is the first “Horror” film I’ve watched in years (didn’t realize this before turning it on) and I now remember why. Well done but it’s not for me!! TRDB. Netflix.

4) BLACKTHORN– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This Western imagines the later career of Butch Cassidy, who escapes to Bolivia where he leads a quiet life with the woman he loves. That is until he meets up with a Spanish robber who promises him one last adventure he can’t refuse.” OK early reviews. TRDB.
10/7/11- Poor review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
1/1/12– Beautiful scenery, lousy movie. I’m glad I didn’t pay for this one. TRDB. Netflix.

5) ONE DAY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a romantic tryst on college graduation night, Emma and Dexter pursue separate dreams. This romantic drama based on a novel of the same name checks in with them each year on the same date, tracking their personal and professional progress.” Poor reviews. TRDB.8/19/11- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
1/2/12- An old fashioned romance that I enjoyed despite it’s being predictable. TRDB. Netflix.

_____________________________________________________________________

CAME TO NETFLIX ON JAN. 3 WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE-

1) I AM– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Hollywood comedy director Tom Shadyac (Ace Ventura: Pet Detective) gets contemplative in this documentary, which finds him conversing with prominent philosophers and spiritual leaders about what ails our world and how we can improve it. Traveling the globe to conduct his in-depth interviews, Shadyac finds insights and inspiration from Archbishop Desmond Tutu, historian Howard Zinn, philosopher Noam Chomsky and other luminaries.” Winner at 2011 Palm Springs Film Festival. OK review in NY Times on 3/18/11.

2) THE LAST LIONS– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Narrated by actor Jeremy Irons, this thrilling documentary follows an African lioness named Ma di Tau as she and her cubs flee a devastating fire, then struggle to live in new territory amidst dangerous predators and a lethal pride of rival lions. Besides being a harrowing tale of survival, this film from directors Dereck and Beverly Joubert illuminates the urgent plight of all Africa’s lions, whose population has reached dangerously low levels.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

3) I’M GLAD MY MOTHER IS ALIVE– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Given up for adoption at a young age, Thomas (Vincent Rottiers) has been plagued all his life with questions about the birth mother (Sophie Cattani) who abandoned him, so he sets out to find and confront her, with quite unexpected results. The connection that they make when they finally meet is charged not only with the chemistry of mother and child, but an unsettling erotic undercurrent as well. Veteran French filmmaker Claude Miller directs.”
9/2/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) INSIDE HANA’S SUITCASE– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “This fascinating documentary traces the quest of a group of Japanese schoolchildren and their teacher, Fumiko Ishioka, as they try to uncover the history of a suitcase donated to the Tokyo Holocaust Museum and inscribed with the name “Hanna Brady.” Discovering that 13-year-old Hanna was a Czechoslovakian Jew interred in a concentration camp, the group finds her brother, George, in Toronto, who shares his memories of Hanna.” Great reviews. TRDB.

____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JAN. 10-

1) RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “James Franco headlines the reboot of the immensely popular Planet of the Apes franchise, a prequel which boasts cutting-edge CGI effects and a gripping story set in modern-day San Francisco, where scientists are conducting genetic research on apes. The evolved primates, including Caesar (Andy Serkis), develop advanced intelligence and revolt against being used as lab rats, unleashing a war for dominion over Earth.”

8/14/11-Despite not liking  James Franco and not liking sci-fi I thoroughly enjoyed this movie that my friends Don and Sue dragged me to. Great special effects, good story and boy, you have to love those apes. TRDB.

2) MONEYBALL– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “An all-star cast brings to life the true story of Billy Beane, a former jock turned general manager who uses unconventional methods to bring the best players to the Oakland A’s, a major league baseball team struggling against financial hardship.”
9/23/11- Good review in today’s NY Times and very good reviews in general. TRDB.
10/3/11- I liked this movie very much and I thought that Brad Pitt did a wonderful job playing Beane. TRDB.

3) HIGHER GROUND- 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Vera Farmiga stars in and directs this sensitive and searching chronicle describing a woman’s lifetime journey of faith — one that initially leads her to join a fundamentalist sect and then leave it again years later. Adapted from the spiritual memoir This Dark World by Carolyn Briggs, the film looks deeply into human doubt and certainty, and the challenge of trying to match our lives with our spiritual beliefs.” Mentioned on 1/22/11 in NY Times re Sundance.
8/23/11- I’ve seen just a few reviews and they are weak. TRDB.
9/2/11- Just saw this film and liked it very much. Farmiga is great and also did a wonderful job directing this movie. I’d recommend it to you. TRDB.

4) PROTEKTOR– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “As the Nazis occupy Prague, radio host Emil Vrbata (Marek Daniel) tries to protect his Jewish spouse, Hana (Jana Plodková), by collaborating with the Germans in this atmospheric drama that examines the role the media played during World War II. Despite Emil’s broadcasting of enemy propaganda, Hana is threatened with internment — and the couple’s deteriorating marriage reaches a turning point when a Nazi official is assassinated.”

8/5/11- OK review in today’s NY Times but I saw this 2 years ago at the Palm Springs Film Festival and did not like it. TRDB.

5) SOCIALISM (FILM SOCIALISME)– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Listen in on the insightful musings of a war criminal, a famous philosopher (Alain Badiou), an American singer (Patti Smith), a former spy and other compelling characters as they travel together aboard a Mediterranean cruise ship, visiting Egypt, Palestine, Odessa and Naples. Directed by legendary French filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard, this multifaceted drama also stars Catherine Tanvier, Christian Sinniger and Jean-Marc Stehlé.” Poor early reviews but it did sound a bit different and interesting. TRDB.

6) AURORA– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Internationally acclaimed Romanian filmmaker Christi Puiu writes, directs and stars in this slow-burn drama as 42-year-old Viorel, a distraught engineer who takes drastic measures to end his emotional suffering after enduring a devastating divorce. Co-starring Clara Voda, Catrinel Dumitrescu and Luminita Gheorghiu, this film juxtaposes long, deliberately paced scenes with short but intense bursts of excitement.” OK review in NY Times on 6/29/11 and good reviews in general. TRDB.

COMING TO NETFLIX TUESDAY, JAN. 17-

1) TOAST– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from famed food writer Nigel Slater’s memoir, this drama centers on young Nigel (Freddie Highmore), who struggles with his mother’s death, a troubled relationship with his father (Ken Stott) and a new stepmother (Helena Bonham Carter) even as he pursues his passion for cooking. When the family moves to the country, the now-teenaged Nigel finds new doors opening — to exciting culinary opportunities as well as sexual awakening.”

9/23/11- A review in today’s NY Times that I couldn’t decipher but good reviews in general. TRDB.

2) COURAGEOUS-2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Despite showing bravery on the job, a group of law enforcement officers find themselves undone when tragedy strikes at home in this social drama. With the aid of their Christian beliefs, however, the men find a deeper well of courage in their hearts.” Awful professional reviews but audiences have liked it. TRDB.

3) DIRTY GIRL- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When promiscuous teen Danielle (Juno Temple) is sentenced to special Ed for making sexually charged comments in class, she befriends gay, overweight Clarke (Jeremy Dozier), who agrees to join her on a search to find her father — in part, so he can get away from his own. Milla Jovovich, Mary Steenburgen and William H. Macy co-star in this quirky coming-of-age tale of independence, adolescence and acceptance.” Several good reviews. TRDB.

10/7/11- An awful review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

4) MYSTERIES OF LISBON– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a 14-year-old orphan (João Luís Arrais) asks the loving priest (Martin Loizillon) who raised him about his unknown origins, he settles in for a sweeping tale of forbidden passion and bitter disappointment involving a beautiful countess, a wealthy businessman and a life of piracy. Raúl Ruiz directs this sumptuous adaptation of a 19th-century Portuguese romance novel penned by Camilo Castelo Branco.” Good early reviews.  TRDB.

An article about this movie appears in the NY Times on 7/31/11. TRDB.

5) SPECIAL TREATMENT– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “High-class prostitute Alice (Isabelle Huppert) specializes in wealthy, eccentric clients and is in the throes of a midlife crisis when her services are engaged by prominent psychiatrist Xavier (Bouli Lanners), who’s estranged from his wife and suffering his own existential malaise. While Alice seeks an analyst who can help her find direction, Xavier tries to reconnect with his emotions, and the two unwittingly lead each other to their goals.” No reviews yet. TRDB.

6) THE IDES OF MARCH- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Dirty tricks stand to soil an ambitious young press spokesman’s idealism in a cutthroat presidential campaign where “victory” is relative. The film is inspired by the real-life experiences of an aide who worked on Howard Dean’s failed 2004 run.” Very good early reviews. I saw the coming attractions and it looked good. TRDB.
10/7/11- Only a fair review at best in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
10/10/11- A very good political drama, especially George Clooney as the candidate. TRDB.

COMING TO NETFLIX TUESDAY, JAN. 24-

1) LIMELIGHT– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary examines the career of New York club owner Peter Gatien, whose run-ins with the law eventually had him deported to Canada. Through Gatien, viewers are treated to a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of New York’s wild nightlife.” Mediocre reviews at best. TRDB.

2) SHUT UP LITTLE MAN- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1987, Eddie Lee Sausage and Mitch Deprey recorded the nightly squabbles of their over-the-top neighbors, homophobic Raymond Huffman and proudly gay Peter Haskett, and the chronicle of the pair’s bizarre existence soon took on a life of its own. This darkly funny documentary checks in with former punks Eddie and Mitch, who detail their late-’80s Lower Haight surroundings, and surveys the tapes’ influence on an array of underground artists.”
9/16/11- Very good reviews in general and in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

3) HELL AND BACK AGAIN– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this unvarnished documentary set on the Afghan front line, U.S. Marine Sgt. Nathan Harris is wounded by Taliban machine-gun fire, then returns to his North Carolina home to grapple with the stress of civilian life. Embedded with Harris’s company on the battlefield, filmmaker Danfung Dennis discovers that for the 25-year-old veteran, recovering from a bullet to the head is no tougher than regaining a foothold in an apathetic homeland.” At Sundance 2011.
Fair audience reviews and a few professional reviews– all good. TRDB.

4) ANOTHER HAPPY DAY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Upper-crust family dysfunction takes center stage in this drama, which stars Ellen Barkin as a divorcée attending the highbrow wedding of the son she barely knows and trying to hold her own against a family that couches judgment in every smile.”
11/18/11- Mixed review in today’s NY Times- as many “up” as “down.” TRDB.

5) RESTLESS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “After she is diagnosed with a disease that will soon claim her life, a young girl (Mia Wasikowska) strikes up an unusually strong friendship with a boy (Henry Hopper) who deals with the problems in his own troubled family by attending funerals. As their relationship deepens into love, the two discover a curious connection to the spirit of a World War II kamikaze pilot (Ryo Kase). Gus Van Sant directs this touching drama.”
9/16/11- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

6) 50/50– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “An otherwise healthy twentysomething has a comically early midlife crisis when he gets slapped with a cancer diagnosis — and a 50-50 chance of survival. But what’s the meaning of life when you’re not sure how long yours will last?” Very good early reviews. TRDB.
9/28/11- Just an OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

7) BEWARE THE GONZO– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Eddie “Gonzo” Gilman (Ezra Miller) is the head geek at his high school — and determined to do something about it. When Gavin (Jesse McCartney), the popular editor of the school paper, fires him, Eddie obtains revenge by establishing an underground paper of his own. The paper’s success surprises Eddie and the misfits he’s assembled to publish it, and Eddie soon finds himself riding a wave of acclaim that threatens to turn him into another Gavin.”
9/9/11- Poor professional reviews in general and in today’s NY Times but excellent audience reaction. TRDB.

8)HAPPY HAPPY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in a remote Norwegian town, this black comedy centers on cheerful housewife Kaja (Agnes Kittlesen), who is contentedly wedded to her loveless high school sweetheart but lands in hot water when a risqué encounter with her urbane new neighbor, Sigve (Henrik Rafaelsen), goes too far. With a full-blown affair on her hands and Christmas just around the corner, Kaja falls back on blinding optimism to get her through the snowballing scandal.” Fairly good professional reviews and average audience ones. TRDB.

_____________________________________________________________________

OPENING JAN. 6-

1) 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.

2) 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.

3) ROADIE- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this taut drama, middle-aged Jimmy Testagross loses his gig as roadie for a has-been rock band and moves back in with his ailing mother. With no job or skills, Jimmy must find a way to let go of his overextended adolescence and become his own man.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

OPENING JAN. 13-

1) RICHARD GARRIOTT: MAN ON A MISSION– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fulfilling a lifelong dream, computer game creator Richard Garriott becomes the first second-generation American astronaut as his $30 million ticket and secret Moscow training puts him aboard the Russian Soyuz rocket for a 12-day journey into space. Go along on his amazing ride as he orbits Earth on the International Space Station, performs experiments designed by his scientist-astronaut father, and returns with a harrowing and fiery re-entry.” Weak early reviews. TRDB.

2) 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.

OPENING JAN. 20-

1) PINA- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Wim Wenders uses 3D technology to arresting effect in this performance documentary about Pina Baussch’s Tanztheater Wuppertal dance company. Performing in the streets and parks of Wuppertal, Germany, the troupe’s pieces include “The Rite of Spring.”
12/23/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) RED TAILS– 2012. Synopsis by Netflix. “The 332nd Fighter Group, an all-black World War II unit made up of the best escort pilots and known as the Red Tails, fights racism at home while fighting the Nazis abroad in this action-packed drama based on the true story of the Tuskegee Airmen.” Excellent audience reviews but I couldn’t find any professional ones. TRDB.

______________________________________________________________________

FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

_____________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

 MOVIES ON-DEMAND IN FLORIDA AS OF 1/5/12
REMEMBER THAT THIS IS NOT THE SAME AS IN NORTHERN MARKETS
 
1) ANGELS CREST- I liked this one- see “above” for my review
2) BEGINNERS- I liked this very much
3) BRIDESMAIDS- Not worth the 2 hours for a few laughs
4) CRAZY, STUPID LOVE- I actually enjoyed this movie
5) THE DEBT- Very good reviews
6) HANNA- Weak screenplay but I did like the movie
7) THE HELP- Good reviews
8)HOUSE OF PLEASURES- Also called HOUSE OF TOLERANCE- A few reviews and they are mixed
9) JANE EYRE- Just OK reviews but I liked it
10) LOOSIES- No reviews as yet
11) MELANCHOLIA- Good reviews but friends hated it
12) Midnight in Paris
13) MY PIECE OF THE PIE- Luke warm reviews
14) ONE DAY- I liked this movie
15) POINT BLANK- I turned this one off
16) SARAH’S KEY- Very good
17) SIDEWALLS- I saw this movie from Argentina and thought it was just OK
18)SLEEPING BEAUTY- Mixed reviews with some OK and some terrible ones as well
19) SOURCE CODE- I didn’t care for this one
20) THE TREE OF LIFE- I did not like this one at all
21) WARRIOR- I liked this very much
22) WIN WIN- Very good and highly recommended

_____________________________________________________________________

BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

1) MY WEEK WITH MARILYN– Bethel. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While filming a movie in England, Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe slips away with a young Brit for a week of self-discovery and frivolity. The story that ensues is based on the real-life memoirs of Colin Clark, once assistant to Sir Laurence Olivier.” Good audience reaction and mixed professional reviews. TRDB.
11/28/11- I liked the movie, loved Michelle Williams as the breathless Monroe but the screenplay was just mediocre. TRDB.

2) TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “John Le Carré’s classic thriller of Cold War espionage follows an English spy as he returns to MI-6 under a cloud of suspicion. In the years since he was sacked by the agency, some suspect he’s become an operative for the Soviet Union.”
12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. TRDB.

3) THE ARTIST– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 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.

4) THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a young computer hacker is tasked with investigating a prying journalist, their separate missions become entangled amid a decades-old conspiracy. David Fincher directs this English adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s novel.” Good audience reviews but none professional as yet. TRDB.

5) WAR HORSE– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from a novel by Michael Morpurgo, this majestic World War I drama centers on Devon lad Albert and his steadfast horse, Joey, whose faithful bond cannot be shaken — even when Joey is sold to the cavalry and sent off to France.” Good reviews although it’s been snubbed by the Golden Globe nominations. TRDB.
12/23/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
12/25/11- Loads of schmaltz and corn and as far as I’m concerned a real disappointment. TRDB.

6) THE DESCENDANTS– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his wife is killed in a Waikiki boating accident, distant father Matt King (George Clooney) begins an iffy journey to repair his fractured relationship with his two daughters. But he’s also trying to decide whether to let go of some valuable family real estate. Judy Greer, Beau Bridges and Matthew Lillard co-star in this tragic-comic tale of legacy and unexpected loss based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.
11/26/11- A very thoughtful and well acted family drama. Humor intersperced with all of the serious material lightened up an otherwise overwhelming drama. Recommended highly. TRDB.

7) A DANGEROUS METHOD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this David Cronenberg-helmed biopic, Viggo Mortensen stars as Sigmund Freud, whose relationship with fellow psychology luminary Carl Jung (Michael Fassbender) is tested when Sabina Spielrein (Keira Knightley), one of the first female psychoanalysts, enters their lives. This World War I-set drama also stars Vincent Cassel as Otto Gross, a disciple of Freud, and Sarah Gadon, who plays Jung’s psychoanalyst wife.” Great reviews. TRDB.

8)YOUNG ADULT- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taken aback when she receives a letter from an old boyfriend announcing that he’s just had a baby with his wife, divorced fiction writer Mavis Gary decides to return to her small hometown and reconnect with her former lover.” Great audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.
12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and very good ones elsewhere– both professional and audience. TRDB.
12/16/11- Great, no. But an OK comedic drama that almost makes us like an unlikable character. TRDB.

ENJOY!!
THE REEL DR. BOB

Add comment January 5th, 2012

FILM REVIEWS #396

DECEMBER 22, 2011

DEAR FRIENDS:

 

THIS ISSUE OF MY NEWSLETTER WILL INCLUDE INFORMATION FOR 2 WEEKS WHENEVER POSSIBLE-

THE NEXT ISSUE WILL PROBABLY BE ON JAN. 3, JUST BEFORE I GO TO THE PALM SPRINGS FILM FESTIVAL IN CALIFORNIA.

I’LL WRITE AGAIN AFTER I RETURN.

 

QUICK LOOK AT MY RECENT FAVORITES-

1) 9500 LIBERTY- Netflix

2) LIFE, ABOVE ALL- Netflix

3) THE MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER- Netflix

4) RAPT- Netflix Streaming

5) YOUNG ADULT- Theater

6) ANTHONY ZIMMER-Netflix Streaming

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MOVIES I SAW IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS AT THE THEATER-

 

1) YOUNG ADULT– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taken aback when she receives a letter from an old boyfriend announcing that he’s just had a baby with his wife, divorced fiction writer Mavis Gary decides to return to her small hometown and reconnect with her former lover.” Great audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and very good ones elsewhere– both professional and audience. TRDB.

12/16/11- Great, no. But an OK comedic drama that almost makes us like an unlikable character. TRDB. 

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MOVIES I SAW IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS AT HOME-

 

1) 9500 LIBERTY– Premise by Netflix. “Under pressure from anti-immigration groups, officials in Virginia’s Prince William County enact a controversial measure requiring police to step up their efforts to identify and detain suspected illegal aliens. Filmmakers Eric Byler and Annabel Park detail the turmoil that the new law stirs in the community, as well as the efforts of local citizens to resist what they regard as an unconstitutional assault on individual rights.” Very good early reviews.12/8/11- A good documentary showing the hate that exists in our country and some of the ways people can make a difference. TRDB. Netflix.

2) THE MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “It’s the last night of summer vacation, and four high school friends face personal and interpersonal crossroads. As they wander the streets of suburban Detroit, each also takes the first tentative steps into the baffling world of adulthood. Recklessly chasing love and adventure, the teens end up with memories that will last a lifetime in this charming, thought-provoking debut feature from writer-director David Robert Mitchell.” Very good professional reviews but average audience reaction. TRDB.

12/9/11- I’m with the pros on this one– I thought it was unique and very interesting. TRDB. Netflix.

3) POINT BLANK– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Samuel Pierret (Gilles Lellouche) is a nurse who saves the wrong guy — a thief (Roschdy Zem) whose henchmen take Samuel’s pregnant wife (Elena Anaya) hostage to force him to spring their boss from the hospital. A race through the subways and streets of Paris ensues, and the body count rises. Can Samuel evade the cops and the criminal underground and deliver his beloved to safety? Fred Cavayé directs, with nods to classic French thrillers.” Good review in NY Times on 7/29/11. TRDB.

12/11/11- I could not get into this movie or even keep up with what was happening at times and even though I watched this while on Amtrak I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

4) LIFE, ABOVE ALL– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a tiny village near Johannesburg, 12-year-old Chanda (Khomotso Manyaka) is left to care for two younger siblings when her infant sister dies and her mother becomes gravely ill. But this isn’t the only challenge she faces; the town has turned against her. Rumors that her family carries a deadly disease have made Chanda a pariah. This indictment of small-town gossip was an Official Selection of the 2010 Cannes Film Festival.” Great professional reviews but only average viewer responses. TRDB.

12/9/11- I liked this movie very much and I think that the young girl who plays Chanda was magnificent. TRDB. Netflix.

5) FLYPAPER– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Two gangs unwittingly attempt to rob a bank at the same time, catching innocent Tripp Kennedy (Patrick Dempsey) in the middle of the action. In the midst of the melee, Tripp saves bank teller Kaitlin (Ashley Judd), and together they scheme to stay alive and out of love. When the bank’s security system goes into lockdown mode, the standoff pits crook against crook while Tripp and Kaitlin execute their plan.”

8/19/11- Mostly poor review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

12/13/11- Really, really bad and I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

6) BOBBY FISHER AGAINST THE WORLD– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “One of the most enigmatic of 20th-century personalities, Bobby Fischer rose to fame as a world-champion child chess prodigy who later found himself embroiled in Cold War era politics. Filmmaker Liz Garbus reveals the dark side of his fame, exploring the phenom’s descent into loneliness, despair and life on the lam. Interviews with people who were close to the legend and rare archival footage provide insights into his character.”

9/9/11- Very good review in today’s NY Times and excellent reviews in general. TRDB.

12/14/11- An excellent documentary that kept me in suspense even though I knew the outcome. A genius with all of the good and bad that came with it are well described here. TRDB. Netflix.

7) ANTHONY ZIMMER– 2005. Synopsis by Netflix. “Sophie Marceau and Yvan Attal star in this French romance-thriller about deception and the hunt for a criminal mastermind. Knowing she’s the bait to trap her unidentifiable lover, Chiara (Marceau) leads the chase to François (Attal), an innocent man. But as Russian hit men close in on François, police detective Akerman (Sami Frey) — and Chiara — soon realize that they are all pawns in a brilliant game played by the elusive Anthony Zimmer.” Good reviews. TRDB.

12/20/11- I enjoyed this movie very much. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

8)RAPT– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “When corporate figurehead Stanislas Graff (Yvan Attal) is kidnapped and held for an absurd ransom of 50 million Euros, the police and powerful business he represents are forced to debate whether one man’s life can really be worth that much money. But every minute they spend talking about the issue gives the press more time to dig through Graff’s murky past — and Graff’s captors more time to torture their hostage.” Great professional reviews and average audience reaction. TRDB.

12/19/11- An excellent movie on several levels with great acting by the lead. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

9) MAKING THE BOYS- 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Revered by some for breaking new ground and reviled by others for reinforcing stereotypes, The Boys in the Band was the first gay-themed film to reach a mainstream audience. This documentary paints a vivid picture of how it got there. Through interviews with Tony Kushner, Edward Albee and more — plus wonderful period footage of Hollywood’s gay past (think Roddy MacDowell and Sal Mineo) — the film reveals The Boys in the Band’s enduring legacy.” Very good reviews. TRDB. Good review in NY Times on 3/11/11.

12/17/11- Well done but I lost interest about halfway through. TRDB. Netflix.

 

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, DEC. 27-

 

1) THE FIRST GRADER– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Based on a true story, this inspirational drama profiles the amazing determination of 84-year-old Kenyan Kimani N’gan’ga Maruge (Oliver Litondo), a Mau Mau freedom fighter who wants to take advantage of a new universal education decree by learning how to read. Although he faces governmental bureaucracy and tribal racism, Maruge’s cause is eventually championed by teacher Jane Obinchu (Naomie Harris), who is set on erasing illiteracy in Kenya.” Winner at 2011 Palm Springs Film Festival. A few reviews and they are mainly negative saying that the movie did not do justice to the importance of the subject. TRDB.

 

2) TUESDAY, AFTER CHRISTMAS– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Paul Hanganu (Mimi Branescu) is in love with two women: Adriana (Mirela Oprisor), his wife of 10 years, and Raluca (Maria Popistasu), his mistress of the past several months. Now, at a crossroads, Paul is forced to choose between them in this drama from Romanian director Radu Muntean. Combining careful staging and emotionally intense dialogue, the film presents an unblinking profile of a man in crisis and the women whose lives he’s ensnared.” Good audience reviews but no professional reviews as yet. TRDB.5/25/11- Excellent review in NY Times today. TRDB.

3) LOVE CRIME– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “With a nod to the machinations of All About Eve and Dangerous Liaisons, French director Alain Corneau delivers a chilling tale of two ambitious women whose professional appetites grow dangerously personal. At first, things are fine between senior executive Christine (Kristin Scott Thomas) and her eager young assistant, Isabelle (Ludivine Sagnier). But when Christine abuses her position of power, Isabelle resorts to revenge — and insubordination.”

9/2/11- An OK review in today’s NY Times. Friends saw this and thought it was OK too. TRDB.

4) BRIGHTON ROCK– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In hopes of silencing a waitress (Andrea Riseborough) who saw him kill another criminal, a young thug (Sam Riley) decides to romance her and suss out how much she knows. But at what point does his premeditated plot blossom into true passion? And are either party’s motives 100 percent pure? John Hurt and Helen Mirren co-star in writer-director Rowan Joffe’s film adaptation of Graham Greene’s novel.” I’ve seen just a few reviews and they are not good. TRDB.

5) ONE DAY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “After a romantic tryst on college graduation night, Emma and Dexter pursue separate dreams. This romantic drama based on a novel of the same name checks in with them each year on the same date, tracking their personal and professional progress.” Poor reviews. TRDB.

8/19/11- OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

8/27/11- Good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB. 

6) ANOTHER EARTH– 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Shortly after a strange, Earth-like planet is discovered, gifted astrophysics student Rhoda Williams (Brit Marling) accidentally slams her car into the vehicle of John Burroughs (William Mapother), killing his family. After some time, Rhoda and John begin an unlikely romance. But Rhoda starts to wonder what would happen if she could actually visit the new planet in director Mike Cahill’s romantic sci-fi drama.” At Sundance 2011. Sounds interesting and good reviews as well. TRDB.

7) EAMES: THE ARCHITECT AND THE PAINTER– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary tells the story of the husband-and-wife team of Charles and Ray Eames, widely considered America’s most important designers. Their creations include furniture, photography, interiors, multimedia exhibits, games and much more.”

11/18/11- A very good review in today’s NY Times and mostly good reviews in general. TRDB.

8)JANE’S JOURNEY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “This inspiring biopic relates the lifelong crusade of chimp researcher Jane Goodall, moving from England to the Tanzanian jungle where her work began. Nearly half a century later, Goodall continues to visit the animals that ignited her passion.” Few reviews so far and they are average. TRDB.

9/16/11- Weak review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

9) DHOBI GHAT (MUMBAI DIARIES) 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Taking its name from the Mumbai neighborhood where much of the city’s washing is done — traditionally by members of the Dhobi caste — this ensemble film represents the directorial debut of Kiran Rao, wife of Bollywood star Aamir Khan. The intimate social drama focuses on a quartet of individuals from different castes — a situation that would normally preclude them from forming friendships. Unique circumstances, however, draw them together.” Good early reviews but just a fair one in the NY Times on 1/21/11.

4/11- Bollywood without music and not bad at all. The first one I’ve watched through for a long time. TRDB. 

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 COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JAN. 3- 

1) THE GUARD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When tightly wound FBI agent Wendell Everett (Don Cheadle) invades an Irish village in pursuit of international drug dealers, wisecracking local copper Gerry Boyle (Brendan Gleeson) does his best to annoy the American and get on with his circumscribed life. But soon there’s a murder, and Boyle finds himself swept up in detective work way beyond his pay grade. John Michael McDonagh directs this action-filled comedy.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

12/20/11- Friends liked this movie very much. TRDB.

2) PUNCTURE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Drug-addicted attorney Mike and his business partner Paul take on a case involving an emergency room nurse who has been pricked by an infected needle. Uncovering a web of corporate conspiracies, Mike and Paul quickly find themselves outmatched.” Mediocre reviews, both professional and by audiences. TRDB.

3) THE DEBT– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rachel Singer (Helen Mirren) is a former Mossad intelligence agent forced to relive her unsuccessful 1965 pursuit of a notorious Nazi war criminal when the bold and dangerous fugitive is thought to have reemerged 30 years later in the Ukraine. Director John Madden’s redo of Assaf Bernstein’s 2007 Israeli suspense piece also features Jessica Chastain as the young Rachel Singer, along with Sam Worthington, Tom Wilkinson and Ciarán Hinds.” Fairly good reviews. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK- (12/23)

 

1) ALBERT NOBBS– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Having for decades disguised herself as a man while working as a butler in a posh 19th-century Dublin hotel, a woman calling herself Albert Nobbs reconsiders her charade when a handsome painter arrives on the scene.” Weak professional reviews in general (good one in NY Times on 12/21) and just OK audience reaction. TRDB. 

 

2) IN THE LAND OF BLOOD AND HONEY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Actress Angelina Jolie makes her directorial debut with a tale of marriage set against the violence of the Bosnian War. Ajla and her husband struggle with to keep their relationship alive, a battle that distracts them from the nation’s upheaval.” Good audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.

 

3) 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.

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OPENING NEXT WEEK (12/30)

 

1) THE IRON LADY– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Meryl Streep provides a subtle and nuanced portrait of Margaret Thatcher, the first female prime minister of Britain, whose political career and determination changed the rules that had limited women’s opportunities for leadership.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

 

2) 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.

 

3) 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.

 

4) ANGELS CREST– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Through a careless indiscretion, a young father (Thomas Dekker) inadvertently allows his 3-year-old son to freeze to death. But as he tries to manage his grief, the man comes under harsh criticism from local townspeople, his ex-wife (Lynn Collins) and an angry prosecutor (Jeremy Piven). Mira Sorvino, Kate Walsh and Elizabeth McGovern co-star in this powerful drama, an adaptation of Leslie Schwartz’s novel Angels Crest.” Good reviews. TRDB.12/6/11- A very well done tragic story with no winners and only losers. Don’t see it if you’re in a bad mood. I liked it. TRDB.

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FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-

 

DEC. 23–DEC. 29-

 

1) TYRANNOSAUR– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Joseph (Peter Mullan), a doomed, damaged petty thief finds love in the most unlikely place when he literally runs into pious Hannah (Olivia Colman). He thinks her religious nature makes her better off than him, which is far from the truth. As Hannah opens up to him, Joseph discovers a woman as damaged and hungry for human contact as he. Eddie Marsan co-stars in the writing and directing debut of actor Paddy Considine.” Good early reviews. TRDB.

 

2) MY REINCARNATION– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While fighting to preserve his spiritual legacy, a Tibetan spiritual master must also do battle with his own son, who has no interest in his destiny. The story that unfolds is a fascinating father-son conflict.”10/28/11- An interesting review in today’s NY Times and I’ll try to see this movie. TRDB.

DEC. 30– JAN. 5

1) GARBO: THE SPY– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using interviews, archival footage and clips from old movies, director Edmon Roch tells the fascinating tale of Juan Pujol, a Spaniard who, under the codename Garbo, worked as a double agent during World War II and helped the Allies win the war.”

11/18/11- A very good review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

2) YOUNG GOETHE IN LOVE– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “The love life of aspiring young poet Johann Goethe is the subject of this period biopic. As Goethe strains against his family’s expectation that he study law, he falls in love with Lotte, who is to be wed to another.”

11/4/11- Just an OK review in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 MOVIES ON-DEMAND IN FLORIDA AS OF 12/22/11- REMEMBER THAT THIS MAY NOT BE THE SAME AS IN NORTHERN MARKETS—

 

1) ANGELS CREST- I liked this one- see “above” for my review

2) ARTHUR- This is the re-make– Fair reviews at best

3) BEATS RHYMES & LIFE- I did not like this movie at all

4) BEGINNERS- I liked this very much

5) BLUE VALENTINE- I thought this was a very good movie with lots of raw emotion. Not for everyone

6) BRIDESMAIDS- Not worth the 2 hours for a few laughs

7) CONSPIRATOR- I found this one just OK. Would have been a better documentary

8)CRAZY, STUPID LOVE- I actually enjoyed this movie

9) HANNA- Weak screenplay but I did like the movie

10) THE HELP- Good reviews

11) HOUSE OF PLEASURES- Also called HOUSE OF TOLERANCE- A few reviews and they are mixed

12) INCENDIES- Loved the film

13) JANE EYRE- Just OK reviews but I liked it

14) THE LAST RITES OF JOE MAY- I saw this and liked it very much

15) LOOSIES- No reviews as yet

16) MAN ON THE TRAIN- I enjoyed it very much

17) MARGIN CALL- I enjoyed it but I do not agree with those who said it was great

18)MELANCHOLIA- Good reviews but friends hated it

19) MY PIECE OF THE PIE- Luke warm reviews

20) POINT BLANK

21) SARAH’S KEY- Very good

22) SIDEWALLS- I saw this movie from Argentina and thought it was just OK

23) SLEEPING BEAUTY- Mixed reviews with some OK and some terrible ones as well

24) SOURCE CODE- I didn’t care for this one

25) THE TREE OF LIFE- I did not like this one at all

26) WEEKEND- Great reviews but I couldn’t understand half the dialogue

27) WIN WIN- Very good and highly recommended

 

 

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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

 

NEW IN THE SUBURBS-

 

1) THE ARTIST– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 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.

2) TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY– Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “John Le Carré’s classic thriller of Cold War espionage follows an English spy as he returns to MI-6 under a cloud of suspicion. In the years since he was sacked by the agency, some suspect he’s become an operative for the Soviet Union.”

12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and from others as well. TRDB.

3) WAR HORSE– 2011. Opens Christmas Day. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adapted from a novel by Michael Morpurgo, this majestic World War I drama centers on Devon lad Albert and his steadfast horse, Joey, whose faithful bond cannot be shaken — even when Joey is sold to the cavalry and sent off to France.” Good reviews although it’s been snubbed by the Golden Globe nominations. TRDB.

 

REPEATS-

 

1) MY WEEK WITH MARILYN– Bethel.  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “While filming a movie in England, Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe slips away with a young Brit for a week of self-discovery and frivolity. The story that ensues is based on the real-life memoirs of Colin Clark, once assistant to Sir Laurence Olivier.” Good audience reaction and mixed professional reviews. TRDB.11/28/11- I liked the movie, loved Michelle Williams as the breathless Monroe but the screenplay was just mediocre. TRDB.

 

2) THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a young computer hacker is tasked with investigating a prying journalist, their separate missions become entangled amid a decades-old conspiracy. David Fincher directs this English adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s novel.” Good audience reviews but none professional as yet. TRDB.

 

3) YOUNG ADULT– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury.  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Taken aback when she receives a letter from an old boyfriend announcing that he’s just had a baby with his wife, divorced fiction writer Mavis Gary decides to return to her small hometown and reconnect with her former lover.” Great audience reviews but no professional ones as yet. TRDB.12/9/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and very good ones elsewhere– both professional and audience. TRDB.

12/16/11- Great, no. But an OK comedic drama that almost makes us like an unlikable character. TRDB. 

4) A DANGEROUS METHOD– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this David Cronenberg-helmed biopic, Viggo Mortensen stars as Sigmund Freud, whose relationship with fellow psychology luminary Carl Jung (Michael Fassbender) is tested when Sabina Spielrein (Keira Knightley), one of the first female psychoanalysts, enters their lives. This World War I-set drama also stars Vincent Cassel as Otto Gross, a disciple of Freud, and Sarah Gadon, who plays Jung’s psychoanalyst wife.” Great early reviews. TRDB.

5) THE DESCENDANTS– Jacob Burns, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury, Clearview 100. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “When his wife is killed in a Waikiki boating accident, distant father Matt King (George Clooney) begins an iffy journey to repair his fractured relationship with his two daughters. But he’s also trying to decide whether to let go of some valuable family real estate. Judy Greer, Beau Bridges and Matthew Lillard co-star in this tragic-comic tale of legacy and unexpected loss based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

11/26/11- A very thoughtful and well acted family drama. Humor intersperced with all of the serious material lightened up an otherwise overwhelming drama. Recommended highly. TRDB.

6) J. EDGAR– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury.  2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Leonardo DiCaprio stars in this riveting biopic as J. Edgar Hoover, the longtime FBI director as notorious for his overzealous methods of law enforcement as for the rumors regarding his cross-dressing and close relationship with protégé Clyde Tolson.” Poor professional reviews but audiences have liked it. TRDB.

11/15/11-The movie was just OK. Reminded me of movies by Oliver Stone with a great deal of playing with the facts. DiCaprio was great. TRDB.

 

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR BOB

Add comment December 27th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #395

Add comment December 8th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #394

Add comment November 30th, 2011