The Reel Dr. Bob

FILM REVIEWS #393

Add comment November 23rd, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #392

11/10/11- I got this movie for a few laughs but I got nothing and turned it off. Awful! TRDB. Netflix.

2) THE GREATEST MOVIE EVER SOLD– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Intrepid filmmaker Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me) directs this entertaining, bitingly ironic documentary, which scrutinizes the pervasive marketing, advertising and product placement practices that have become de rigueur in the entertainment industry. Cheerfully using the proceeds gleaned from product placement within this film to finance it (and underscore his point), Spurlock reveals the corporate power that saturates both film and television.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

11/10/11- Spurlock does it again. After “Super Size Me” he comes up with an original idea that proves to be interesting and thought provoking.” See it!! TRDB. Netflix.

4) BRIDESMAIDS– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Kristen Wiig leads the cast as Annie, a maid of honor whose life unravels as she leads her best friend, Lillian (Maya Rudolph), and a group of colorful bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper) on a wild ride down the road to matrimony.” Fairly good reviews so far but a fair number of negative ones as well.  A surprisingly good review from the NY Times on 5/13/11. TRDB.

11/14/11- A few good laughs but otherwise formulaic and not worth the 2 hours you’ll have to spend to see what happens. TRDB. Netflix.

5) AN INVISIBLE SIGN– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a puzzling disease devastates her beloved father, math prodigy Mona Gray deals with the pain by isolating herself from the rest of the world and turning for comfort to the reliable world of mathematics. But when she later teaches math to troubled grade school kids, Mona discovers that her gift can be a route back from her long emotional exile. Marilyn Agrelo directs and Jessica Alba stars in this adaptation of the book by Aimee Bender.” Poor reviews. TRDB.

11/14/11- Poor reviews, well deserved. I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

6) CITY OF LIFE AND DEATH– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Chuan Lu pulls off a rare feat by providing a clear-eyed drama about an event in Chinese-Japanese history — the 1937 Rape of Nanking following that city‘s capture by Japan — that still casts a shadow over relations between the countries. Shot in black and white, the film chronicles the six-week period through the eyes of multiple characters — including a Japanese soldier, a refugee camp supervisor, a resistance fighter and others.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

11/15/11- Brutal to watch! A brisk reminder that war is hell or worse. I think the movie is making a statement by all of the brutality but I would have related to it more if there was more dialogue, more character development and a bit less random killing. TRDB. Netflix.

7) FORGED– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Released from prison after serving a sentence for murdering his wife, Chuco returns to Scranton, Penn., where he meets his son, who naturally wants revenge. The two proceed to wrestle with their emotions and the past, forging an unlikely bond.” OK review in NY Times on 7/29/11. TRDB.

11/16/11- A fairly good drama about an ex-con trying to right a wrong. TRDB. Netflix.

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

1/16/11- Different to say the least but I can’t say that I really enjoyed. I liked the ending. TRDB. On- Demand

11/4/11- Weak reviews– some hating this movie and others saying it was OK. I had planned to see it but now I think I’ll skip it. TRDB.

2) SARAH’S KEY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the midst of researching an article about the roundup of Jews that took place in Paris in 1942, American-born journalist Julia Jarmond (Kristin Scott Thomas) uncovers a sobering connection between her story and the home she shares with her boorish French husband (Frederic Pierrot). Gilles Paquet-Brenner directs this gripping drama based on a bestselling novel of the same name that was inspired by actual events.” Excellent professional reviews and average audience reaction. TRDB.

8/15/11- Great script and wonderful acting make this Holocaust movie different from others and I highly recommend it. TRDB.

3) 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.

3) JANIE JONES– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Deserted by her drug-addicted mom (Elisabeth Shue) — a former groupie — in the middle of a rock concert, 13-year-old Janie (Abigail Breslin) drastically alters the course of her life when she announces to the band’s temperamental singer (Alessandro Nivola) that she’s his daughter. Although they’ve never met before, father and daughter go on the road together, eventually bonding over music and more.” Good audience reaction but poor professional reviews. TRDB.

4) 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.” No reviews as yet. TRDB.

5) A LONELY PLACE TO DIE– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A group of five mountaineers are hiking and climbing in the Scottish Highlands when they discover a young Serbian girl buried in a small chamber in the wilderness. They become caught up in a terrifying game of cat and mouse with the kidnappers as they try to get the girl to safety.” Good early reviews. TRDB. 

 REPEATS-

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

2) LIKE CRAZY– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis 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 and several friends did not like it. TRDB.

3) MARGIN CALL– 2011. Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Synopsis by Netflix. “An all-star cast shines in this engrossing drama about a critical 24-hour period at a high-profile investment bank in the early days of the 2008 financial crisis, when young analyst Peter Sullivan (Zachary Quinto) uncovers information that could destroy the firm. When he alerts upper management to the precarious position of their risky investments, an emergency meeting is held to decide if they should alert clients or abscond with the profits.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

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

10/31/11- A good “financial thriller” and although I enjoyed it I could have used a bit less of Kevin Spacey’s lessons. Jeremy Irons as the head honcho was great. TRDB.

4) MELANCHOLIA– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

5) THE SKIN I LIVE IN– Clearview 100. 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. My friends all hated the movie. TRDB.

6) THE WAY– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

7) THE IDES OF MARCH– Saw Mill Hawthorne. 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.

9) MONEYBALL- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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.  

10) MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE– Jacob Burns. 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.

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

Add comment November 17th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #391

Add comment November 10th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #390

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

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

11/1/11- I found this movie interesting, in particular the characters of the neighborhood. Also, the love between the two principal characters was portrayed beautifully. TRDB.

2) VIVA RIVA!- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hustler Riva (Patsha Bay) hopes to make a fortune by smuggling large quantities of gasoline and selling it for high prices in fuel-starved Kinshasa, but he’s not the only one with his eye on the lucrative prize. Riva’s plan gets complicated when he falls for Nora (Manie Malone), the girlfriend of local crime kingpin Azor (Diplome Amekindra), but the stunning Nora is also scheming for a big payday in this sleek thriller.” Fair review in NY Times on 6/10/11 but good reviews in general. TRDB.

10/31/11- I can’t believe anyone gave this a good review. Awful and I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

3) MARGIN CALL– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “An all-star cast shines in this engrossing drama about a critical 24-hour period at a high-profile investment bank in the early days of the 2008 financial crisis, when young analyst Peter Sullivan (Zachary Quinto) uncovers information that could destroy the firm. When he alerts upper management to the precarious position of their risky investments, an emergency meeting is held to decide if they should alert clients or abscond with the profits.” Very good early reviews. TRDB.

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

10/31/11- A good “financial thriller” and although I enjoyed it I could have used a bit less of Kevin Spacey’s lessons. Jeremy Irons as the head honcho was great. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

4) THE HIGH COST OF LIVING– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Well-to-do housewife Nathalie (Isabelle Blais) eagerly awaits the birth of her first child, while elsewhere in Montreal, small-time drug dealer Henry (Zach Braff) plans his next score. One night, their contrasting lives become intertwined when Henry hits Nathalie with his car. He flees the scene but later tries to make amends — without revealing his culpability. As their friendship grows, the remorseful Henry fears Nathalie will learn the truth.”

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

11/1/11- Somewhat predictable, especially the ending but I enjoyed elements of this film and I can recommend it with qualifications. TRDB. Netflix.

7/12/11- Very good professional reviews and OK audience ones. TRDB.

Good review in NY Times on 7/1/11. TRDB.

7/18/11- I saw this movie today and found it absorbing and I’d definitely recommend it. TRDB.

2) GREAT DIRECTORS– Synopsis by Netflix. “New York-based businesswoman and filmmaker Angela Ismailos offers this collection of in-depth interviews with David Lynch, John Sayles, Catherine Breillat, Bernardo Bertolucci and six other internationally acclaimed film directors. Touching on everything from the creative process and the history of cinema to the necessity of balancing art and commerce, Ismailos’s interviews also include sit-downs with Liliana Cavani, Ken Loach and Agnès Varda.” Decent professional reviews and only fair audience reaction. TRDB.

3) THE TREE OF LIFE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Brad Pitt and Sean Penn star in Terrence Malick’s 1950s adventure about a confused man named Jack, who sets off on a journey to understand the true nature of the world. Growing up in the Midwest with two brothers, Jack has always been torn between his mother’s guidance to approach everything he encounters with an open heart and his father’s advice to look after his own interests. Now, Jack must find a way to regain purpose and perspective.” Good audience reviews so far but no professional ones as yet. TRDB. The movie won best picture at Cannes 2011.

6/6/11- While grand in scale I felt that I was watching a series of coming attractions, each lasting 1 or 2 minutes. What  a waste of time. My friend Sue said it well– “Judging by the award of Best Picture at Cannes I feel like I am watching “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” I agree. TRDB.

4) LIFE IN A DAY– 2011.  Synopsis by Netflix. “On July 24, 2010, thousands of people around the world joined together to document mundane and remarkable everyday life in a single day. Filmmaker Kevin MacDonald led a team of editors to condense more than 4,500 hours of footage and 80,000 clips into a portrait of life as it is lived on Earth. From dense cities to remote and forbidding landscapes, the myriad varieties of human experience are celebrated and revealed.” Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

5) THE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER– Synopsis by Netflix. “This beautifully shot film combines comedy and tragedy in the tale of a workaholic human resources manager (Mark Ivanir) who neglects his family to further his career. But when an employee at his bakery is killed, he begins an odd journey toward self-realization. Offering to escort the woman’s body from Israel back to her Eastern European homeland, the manager is puzzled by eccentric characters along the way but begins to understand the importance of family.”

1/11- A bit far fetched but still an interesting road trip that I enjoyed. At the Palm Springs Int. Film Festival. TRDB.

6) PUTTY HILL– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a vacant house in Baltimore’s skid row, a young man named Cory dies of a heroin overdose. As his friends and family unite for his funeral, their reflections reveal as much about the condition of the city as their tragic loss. Filmed over just a few days and largely improvised, this moving drama by director Matthew Porterfield was an official selection of the 2010 South By Southwest Film Festival.” Very good professional reviews and average audience reaction. TRDB.

10/14/11- Very well done and I liked this movie very much. TRDB.

10/31/11- A good “financial thriller” and although I enjoyed it I could have used a bit less of Kevin Spacey’s lessons. Jeremy Irons as the head honcho was great. TRDB.

4) MAN ON THE TRAIN– 2011. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A mysterious criminal (Mullen Jr.) rolls into a small town planning to knock off the local bank, assuming it will go off without a hitch. But when he encounters a retired poetry professor (Sutherland), his plans take an unlikely turn. With no place to stay, the professor generously welcomes him into his home. As the two men talk, a bond forms between these two polar opposites, and surprising moments of humor and compassion emerge. As they begin to understand each other more, they each examine the choices they’ve made in their lives, secretly longing to live the type of lifestyle the other man has lived, based on the desire to escape their own.” Good early reviews from both Rotten Tomatoes and IMDB. TRDB.

5) 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! TRDB.

2) THE SKIN I LIVE IN– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

10/31/11- A good “financial thriller” and although I enjoyed it I could have used a bit less of Kevin Spacey’s lessons. Jeremy Irons as the head honcho was great. TRDB.

2) THE WAY– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

3) TAKE SHELTER– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Oscar nominee Michael Shannon (Revolutionary Road) stars in this Sundance-selected thriller as Curtis LaForche, a small-town family man who’s determined to protect his wife (Jessica Chastain) and deaf daughter (Tova Stewart) from impending disaster. Fueled by disturbing visions of a terrible storm, Curtis sets out to prepare for the future by building an impenetrable storm shelter in the safety of his own backyard.”

9/30/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and great reviews in general. TRDB.

10/15/11- Reviews have been great AND accurate. You should see this movie. TRDB.  

4) THE IDES OF MARCH– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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.

5) MONEYBALL– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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.

Add comment November 3rd, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #389

10/14/11- Very well done and I liked this movie very much. TRDB.

2) TAKE SHELTER– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Oscar nominee Michael Shannon (Revolutionary Road) stars in this Sundance-selected thriller as Curtis LaForche, a small-town family man who’s determined to protect his wife (Jessica Chastain) and deaf daughter (Tova Stewart) from impending disaster. Fueled by disturbing visions of a terrible storm, Curtis sets out to prepare for the future by building an impenetrable storm shelter in the safety of his own backyard.”

9/30/11- Great review in today’s NY Times and great reviews in general. TRDB.

10/15/11- Reviews have been great AND accurate. You should see this movie. TRDB.  

3) THE WOMEN ON THE 6th FLOOR– 2010. Synopsis by IMDB. “In 1960s Paris, a conservative couple’s lives are turned upside down by two Spanish maids.”

10/7/11- Fairly good reviews in general but a poor one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.

10/18/11- The synopsis doesn’t do the film justice. I loved the characters, the screenplay, the music and basically everything else. A must see!! TRDB.

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2) HANNA– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hanna (Saoirse Ronan) is a teenager raised in Finland and trained by her father (Eric Bana), an ex-CIA operative, to become a highly skilled assassin. But when she’s sent on a deadly mission across Europe, Hanna takes to a French family and starts longing for a normal life. She must first solve the puzzle of her mysterious past, however. Joe Wright (Atonement) directs this tense actioneer; Cate Blanchett also stars.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/16/11- A great idea that would have been better with a better screenplay but enjoyable never-the-less. The young actress was great. TRDB. Netflix.

3) SUBMARINE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When he learns that his mother is on the verge of deserting his father for a dance instructor, young Welsh teen Oliver (Craig Roberts) resolves to do whatever it takes to save his parents’ marriage before the end of summer. Meanwhile, the offbeat lad also schemes to seduce pushy pyromaniac Jordana (Yasmin Paige) with nothing but the power of his mind. Richard Ayoade directs this quirky coming-of-age comedy based on a novel by Joe Dunthorne.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/16/11- A somewhat different coming of age story and I liked it. TRDB. Netflix.

4) MOJAVE MOON– 1996. Synopsis by Netflix. “Middle-aged car salesman Al (Danny Aiello) meets a much younger woman named Ellie (Angelina Jolie), who invites him back to the mobile home where she lives. While her mother, Julie (Anne Archer), and Julie’s boyfriend Boyd (Michael Biehn) are out, Al and Ellie share a dance and fall asleep. When Al leaves the next day, he’s stunned to find that a corpse has been planted in his trunk. He soon realizes that his unlucky streak has just begun.”

10/18/11-  A cute comedy and lots of fun!! Especially a very young Angelina Jolie. TRDB. From a friend but available on Netflix DVD and Streaming.

3) ALL SHE CAN– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Luz Garcia (Corina Calderon), a high school senior in a remote Texas town, seeks to finance her much-coveted education at the University of Texas at Austin by winning a scholarship through a State Powerlifting Championship. But she quickly comes to learn that there is more standing in her way than mere dead weight. Amy Wendel (Curley’s Diner) co-writes and directs this story of pure perseverance and grit.” Good early audience reviews so far. TRDB. Released 10/18/11.

3) AN INVISIBLE SIGN– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a puzzling disease devastates her beloved father, math prodigy Mona Gray deals with the pain by isolating herself from the rest of the world and turning for comfort to the reliable world of mathematics. But when she later teaches math to troubled grade school kids, Mona discovers that her gift can be a route back from her long emotional exile. Marilyn Agrelo directs and Jessica Alba stars in this adaptation of the book by Aimee Bender.” Poor reviews. TRDB.

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

2) 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.

7/12/11- Very good professional reviews and OK audience ones. TRDB.

Good review in NY Times on 7/1/11. TRDB.

7/18/11- I saw this movie today and found it absorbing and I’d definitely recommend it. TRDB.

Add comment October 18th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #388

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

Add comment October 12th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #387

  OCTOBER 6, 2011

DEAR FRIENDS:  

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF LAST WEEK-  

1) THE LION KING- Theater

2) JANE EYRE- Netflix

3) CIRCO- Netflix   _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-  

1) THE LION KING (1994)- Synopsis by Netflix. “The highest-grossing animated film of the 20th century follows a young lion cub named Simba (voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas and Matthew Broderick) who can’t wait to be king. But his uncle (Jeremy Irons) craves the title for himself and will stop at nothing — even killing his own brother — to get it.”

9/27/11- I just saw this movie with my wife, my son and 2 of my grandchildren and loved it. Interesting, great animation and we saw it in 3D which put a new twist on the film. 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. At the Theater.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-  

1) JANE EYRE– 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Driven from her post at Thornfield House by her brooding employer Edward Rochester’s (Michael Fassbender) impenetrable personality, young governess Jane Eyre (Mia Wasikowska) takes time to reflect on her childhood and the events that led her to the misty moors. Little does she know that Rochester’s mood is largely due to a dark secret. Judi Dench, Jamie Bell and Sally Hawkins co-star in this artful adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/2/11- An excellent portrayal of the classic and definitely worth a viewing. TRDB. Netflix.

2) LOURDES– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confined to a wheelchair for most of her life, lonely Christine (Sylvie Testud) devises a plan to change her circumstances by journeying to Lourdes, the small town in the foothills of the Pyrenees, where many flock to be healed. The journey yields startling results for our isolated hero in director Jessica Hausner‘s Austrian drama, an official selection at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.” Great reviews.

10/2/11- Despite the many great reviews of this movie I felt that it lacked any passion and it took a long time to end. TRDB. Netflix.

3) CIRCO– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mexican ringmaster Tino struggles to operate his family’s long-running traveling circus in the midst of an economic downturn, while coping with the demands of his fed-up wife and four talented young children in this fascinating documentary. Featuring music by alt-country rockers Calexico, the film explores family ties and cultural inheritance while taking viewers all across rural Mexico’s beautiful back roads.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

10/4/11- A remarkable documentary showing a slice of life and a good look at what living in a traveling  circus is like, warts and all, especially the extended family dynamics. TRDB. Netflix.

4) THE RED CHAPEL– 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “While in North Korea under the pretext of a cultural exchange, two Danish-Korean comics and a subversive journalist with a video camera attempt to ridicule their host nation’s oppressive regime but encounter moral dilemmas and political manipulation. A bold look at the ethics of deceit, director Mads Brügger‘s darkly humorous documentary (and an award winner at Sundance) provides a rare glimpse inside one of the world’s most secretive societies.” Average professional reviews but very good audience acceptance. TRDB.

10/5/11- Interesting only because of the intended deceit of the production but not enough to keep me involved and I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

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  COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, OCT. 11-  

1) BEAUTIFUL BOY– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “This heartrending drama stars Michael Sheen as Bill Carroll, who is contemplating separating from his wife, Kate (Maria Bello), when the unimaginable happens: Their 18-year-old son, Sam (Kyle Gallner), commits mass murder at his university before killing himself. While coping with their grief, Bill and Kate must deal with the insatiable media, other parents furious at them for their son’s actions and their own questions about their culpability.” Good early reviews. TRDB. Poor review in NY Times on 6/3/11. TRDB.  

2) THE PRINCESS OF MONTPENSIER– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Aristocrat Marie de Mézières (Mélanie Thierry) loves the dashing Duke Henri de Guise (Gaspard Ulliel), but her father (Philippe Magnan) forces her to marry a prince she doesn’t know (Grégoire Leprince-Ringuet). With her new husband at war, Marie’s passion for Henri grows stronger than ever. Bertrand Tavernier directs this historical drama set against a backdrop of religious conflict in 16th-century France.” Very good audience reviews. TRDB.  

 3) FAT, SICK & NEARLY DEAD– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Focusing on two men whose bodies have been trashed by steroids, obesity and illness, this documentary chronicles the rigorous healing path — including a two-month diet of fruits and vegetables — that both attempt in a bid to rescue their health.” Fair review in NY Times on 4/1/11. TRDB.  

4) THE TRIP– 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, the stars of the 2005 comedy Tristram Shandy, reunite with director Michael Winterbottom for this mockumentary about a pair of actors — handily named Steve and Rob — who embark on a foodie road trip across England. Mostly improvised and highlighting the duo’s penchant for dueling impressions of famous actors, the film follows them as they test their friendship while sampling the best restaurants in Northern England.” Good review in NY Times on 6/10/11. TRDB.

6/26/11- Great scenes of the countryside and enjoyable bantering between 2 old friends make this film worth watching. TRDB.

5) LEAP YEAR (ANO BISIESTO)- Synopsis by Netflix. “Journalist Laura Lopez (Mónica del Carmen) leads an isolated life in Mexico, her only social interactions being sexual encounters with strangers. With February 29th mysteriously circled on her calendar, Laura uses wild sex with Arturo (Gustavo Sánchez Parra) to hasten her unspoken goal. The questions of who is controlling whom and for what purpose loom large as Laura and Arturo’s encounters grow increasingly more violent and depraved.” Very good early professional reviews but only fair audience reaction. TRDB.

6) SEPTIEN– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Writer-director Michael Tully also stars in this quirky tale of broken ties as Cornelius Rawlings, a long-absent son who returns to his dead parents’ farm to reunite with his surviving siblings. His brother Ezra (Robert Longstreet) is a Jesus freak, while his brother Amos (Onur Tukel) embraces Satan and sports. Meanwhile, Cornelius is content to call getting alternately drunk and high a form of living.” At Sundance 2011. OK audience and professional reviews. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   OPENING THIS WEEK-  

1) HELL AND BACK AGAIN– 2011. Premise 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 no professional reviews as yet. TRDB.  

2) 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.  

3) 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. TRDB.   

4) INCENDIARY: THE WILLINGHAM CASE– 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This provocative exposé revisits the case of Cameron Todd Willingham — executed for the arson deaths of his family — to probe scientists’ criticism of the investigation as well as the fighting stance of Texas forensics commissioner John Bradley.” Great audience reviews. TRDB.  

 5) 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.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-  

1) 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.

 2) OVER YOUR CITIES GRASS WILL GROW–  2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Modern artist Anselm Kiefer and his monumental landscape creation at Barjac, France — a vast complex including lakes, bridges, caves and galleries displaying Kiefer’s other work — are the focus of this documentary from Sophie Fiennes. The artist’s ruminations on the creative process and his aims and ambitions are intercut with a careful study of the art itself, shining a spotlight on the processes at work in Kiefer’s expanding mini-universe.” Mixed reviews, some calling it interesting and others calling it a slumberous bore. TRDB.   _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMCAST ON-DEMAND   NEW-  

1) THE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER– Synopsis by Netflix. “This beautifully shot film combines comedy and tragedy in the tale of a workaholic human resources manager (Mark Ivanir) who neglects his family to further his career. But when an employee at his bakery is killed, he begins an odd journey toward self-realization. Offering to escort the woman’s body from Israel back to her Eastern European homeland, the manager is puzzled by eccentric characters along the way but begins to understand the importance of family.”

1/11- A bit far fetched but still an interesting road trip that I enjoyed. I saw this at the Palm Springs Int. Film Festival. TRDB.

2) IN A BETTER WORLD– (Haevnen) 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Danish director Susanne Bier delves into the realm of fathers, sons and their perceived burden of male responsibility with this Golden Globe-winning drama about the interplay between two dysfunctional families. With his father (Mikael Persbrandt) working abroad, bullied Elias (Markus Rygaard) finds solace in a budding friendship with a volatile new student (William Jøhnk Nielsen). But the boys’ shared revenge only seems to invite more violence.” Won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Foreign Film. TRDB.

4/11- A wonderful movie, difficult to watch at times, with several important messages. In particular about the different ways of handling conflict and the limits of each manner. TRDB.

3) VIVA RIVA!- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hustler Riva (Patsha Bay) hopes to make a fortune by smuggling large quantities of gasoline and selling it for high prices in fuel-starved Kinshasa, but he’s not the only one with his eye on the lucrative prize. Riva’s plan gets complicated when he falls for Nora (Manie Malone), the girlfriend of local crime kingpin Azor (Diplome Amekindra), but the stunning Nora is also scheming for a big payday in this sleek thriller.” Fair review in NY Times on 6/10/11 but good reviews in general. TRDB.  

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

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

  REPEATS-  

1) A SCREAMING MAN- I saw this and liked it

2) ANOTHER YEAR- I liked it but friends did not

3) ARTHUR- This is the re-make– fair reviews at best

4) BEWARE THE GONZO- Haven’t seen this yet

5) BILL CUNNINGHAM NEW YORK- Very good reviews

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

7) BRIGHTON ROCK- OK reviews

8)BURKE AND HARE- Fair reviews

9) CARBON NATION- I haven’t seen this yet

10) CAVE OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS- Very good reviews but I haven’t seen it yet

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

12) FAIR GAME- I liked it very much

13) HESHER- I did not like this one

14) IF A TREE FALLS- An interesting documentary, I saw it and liked it

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

16) LIMITLESS- An OK sci-fi film

17) LINCOLN LAWYER- Good movie

18)LOURDES- OK reviews- friends did not like this at all

19) LOVE CRIME- OK reviews- I haven’t seen it yet

20) MEEK’S CUTOFF- I liked it

21) MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER- Good reviews

22) QUEEN TO PLAY- I liked this very much

23) SKATELAND- Mediocre reviews

24) SOMEWHERE- I enjoyed the movie- it’s slow so beware

25) SOURCE CODE- OK reviews

26) TALES OF THE GOLDEN AGE- Good reviews but I haven’t seen it yet

27) THE KING’S SPEECH- I liked it with a few complaints

28)WIN WIN- Very good and highly recommended  

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 SUBURBS-

1) THE IDES OF MARCH– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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 and I saw the coming attractions and it looked good. TRDB.

REPEATS-

1) THE HELP– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1960s Jackson, Miss., aspiring writer Eugenia Phelan crosses taboo racial lines by conversing with Aibileen Clark about her life as a housekeeper, and their ensuing friendship upsets the fragile dynamic between the haves and the have-nots. When other long-silent black servants begin opening up to Eugenia, the disapproving conservative Southern town soon gets swept up in the turbulence of changing times.” Good reviews. TRDB.

2) THE DEBT– Bethel, Clearview 100. 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 but friends said it was very violent– ? Hollywood violent. TRDB.

3) MONEYBALL– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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.

4) 50/50– Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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 reviews. TRDB.

5) DRIVE- Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this thriller, Driver, a Hollywood stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver, is lured from his isolated life by a lovely neighbor and her young son. His newfound peace is shattered, however, when her violent husband is released from prison.” Very good reviews. TRDB.

9/16/11- Good review today in the Times but at one point they did say that the movie was saved from tedium by the supporting cast, whatever that means. TRDB.

9/22/11- A thriller and I agree with the comment above that the acting, particularly from Gosling, made the movie. Don’t go if you’re squeamish! TRDB.

6) THE LION KING– Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. (1994)- Synopsis by Netflix. “The highest-grossing animated film of the 20th century follows a young lion cub named Simba (voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas and Matthew Broderick) who can’t wait to be king. But his uncle (Jeremy Irons) craves the title for himself and will stop at nothing — even killing his own brother — to get it.”

9/27/11- I just saw this movie with my wife, my son and 2 of my grandchildren and loved it. Interesting, great animation and we saw it in 3D which put a new twist on the film. TRDB.

7) MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITE– Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “An illiterate handyman named Germain (Gérard Depardieu) befriends Margueritte (Gisèle Casadesus), a highly educated 95-year-old woman. The two couldn’t be more different, with the oafish Germain bewildered by the literature that gives Margueritte such pleasure. Slowly the two form an unusual and intense bond, leading them to a greater understanding of their place in the world, and in each other’s lives.” Early professional reviews are positive but weak for audiences. TRDB.

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

8)MOZART’S SISTER– Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

9)  LOVE CRIME– Clearview 100. 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 also thought it was just OK. TRDB.

10) MACHINE GUN PREACHER– Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Gerard Butler stars in this true-life story of Sam Childers, a drug dealer who turns his life around to become a spiritual warrior. His mission? Rescuing child soldiers in the Sudan from lives ruined by their forced participation in bloody conflict.” A few good reviews so far. TRDB.

11) THE GUARD– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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) SARAH’S KEY– Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the midst of researching an article about the roundup of Jews that took place in Paris in 1942, American-born journalist Julia Jarmond (Kristin Scott Thomas) uncovers a sobering connection between her story and the home she shares with her boorish French husband (Frederic Pierrot). Gilles Paquet-Brenner directs this gripping drama based on a bestselling novel of the same name that was inspired by actual events.” Excellent professional reviews and average audience reaction. TRDB.

8/15/11- Great script and wonderful acting make this Holocaust movie different from others and I highly recommend 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

—
THE REEL DR. BOB
The Reel Dr. Bob

Add comment October 6th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #386

Add comment September 28th, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #385

  SEPT. 22, 2011 DEAR FRIENDS:   TO MY FLORIDA READERS:   DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE L-DUB FILM FESTIVAL THAT RUNS FROM FRIDAY, SEPT. 30 TO SUNDAY, OCT. 2 AT THE STONZEK THEATER LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE ON LAKE AVE. IN DOWNTOWN LAKE WORTH   QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-  

1) CIRCUMSTANCE- Theater

2) THE DEBT-  (The original Israeli version) Comcast On-Demand

3) UP THE YANGTZE- Netflix 4) MEEK’S CUTOFF- Netflix   _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT THE THEATER-  

1) CIRCUMSTANCE- 2011. Premise by Netflix. “Iranian teens Atafeh (Nikohl Boosheri) and Shireen (Sarah Kazemy) explore their forbidden attraction to one another against the backdrop of modern-day Tehran’s subcultures. Atafeh’s brother, Mehran (Reza Sixo Safai), returns home after drug rehab and is soon dismayed by his sister’s newfound sense of liberation. Giving up on his dreams to become a classical musician, Mehran joins the morality police, causing deeper rifts in the family.” Mentioned in NY Times on 1/22/11 re Sundance.

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

9/19/11- A very good drama that clearly depicts the dangers of living in such a repressive society. Good acting and the movie seemed real. TRDB.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK AT HOME-  

1) THE DEBT- 2007. This is the original movie called “The Debt” from Israel. Directed by Assaf Bernstein and starring Gila Almagor this thriller is about an Israeli woman in her 60’s, a former Mosad agent, who is summoned to kill a Nazi war criminal that she came close to killing decades ago. TRDB.

9/15/11- I enjoyed the movie and from what I hear it was much less violent than the newer version with Helen Mirren. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

2) LE QUATTRO VOLTE- 2010. Premise by Netflix. “This visual poem brings to life Pythagoras’s theory that the soul moves from human to animal to vegetable to mineral in its evolutionary journey. Wordlessly, the film follows an elderly Italian goat herder as he makes the remarkable transition. Director Michelangelo Frammartino captures the essence of everyday life in the Italian countryside as the man transforms into a baby goat, a giant tree and a lump of coal.” Many terrific reviews. TRDB.

9/15/11- When the reviews said that the movie was “wordless” they weren’t kidding. I guess I like dialogue because I hated this well received movie. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) CHERRY- 2010. Premise by Netflix. “Brilliant but naïve Ivy League freshman Aaron (Kyle Gallner) becomes enchanted by free-spirited older student Linda (Laura Allen) — and when she invites him for dinner, he hopes they hook up. But it turns out Linda’s spunky 14-year-old daughter, Beth (Brittany Robertson), takes a liking to him. As he fends off Beth’s aggressive advances, Aaron finds himself in the middle of an unusual emotional triangle that teaches him some unexpected lessons.” OK review in NY Times on 11/5/10.

9/16/11- Formulaic for most of the movie but surprisingly interesting at times, particularly the young daughter’s part. I have to say that I did like it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

4) UP THE YANGTZE- 2007. Synopsis by Netflix. “When the Three Gorges Dam makes life hard for the Yu family, daughter Yu Shui must take a job aboard a cruise ship, where she enters into a dizzying microcosm of modern China. Meanwhile, her parents face the rising waters of the Yangtze. Chinese Canadian filmmaker Yung Chang’s beautifully photographed film of China’s peasant life and cultural upheaval was nominated for Best Documentary for the Independent Spirit Awards.”

9/18/11- I saw this a few years ago and again yesterday. First time I loved it. Second time I liked it a lot. Beautiful scenery and well done movie. It bothered me that they made Western tourists look simplistic. TRDB. Netflix.

5) MEEK’S CUTOFF- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Set in 1845, this drama follows a group of settlers as they embark on a punishing journey along the Oregon Trail. When their guide leads them astray, the expedition is forced to contend with the unforgiving conditions of the high plain desert. Inspired by a true story, this effort from director Kelly Reichardt (Old Joy, Wendy and Lucy) illustrates the harsh difficulties, monotony and desperation endured by covered-wagon travelers.” Good review in NY Times on 4/8/11. TRDB.

9/20/11-  I liked this one a lot. A reviewer called it more of an experience than a story and I agree. I can still smell the earth. TRDB. Netflix.

6) ROAD TO NOWHERE- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In a reach for authenticity, filmmaker Mitch (Tygh Runyan) casts an unknown actress (Shannyn Sossamon) to star in his upcoming film, the true story of a puzzling political scandal involving a North Carolina senator. But then he learns the actress may have actually been involved. Before long, Mitch finds himself helplessly ensnared in a deadly web of intrigue. Dominique Swain and Waylon Payne round out the cast.” OK review in NY Times on 6/10/11 and in general better professional reviews than audience ones. TRDB.

9/21/11- A somewhat confusing storyline where the whole was much less than it’s parts. It held my interest intermittently. TRDB. Netflix.

  _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, SEPT. 27-  

1) L’AMOUR FOU- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Yves Saint-Laurent — synonymous with Le Smoking suit, the safari jacket and Studio 54 — met Pierre Bergé in 1958, and this intimate documentary pays tribute to their extraordinary 50-year friendship. The pair were lovers, then partners in fashion and in art collecting, and when they weren’t rocking haute couture with prêt-à-porter or the first black runway models, they were acquiring the objets d’art from which the designer drew inspiration.” Mediocre reviews. TRDB.  

2) SKATELAND- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Director Anthony Burns and screenwriter brothers Heath and Brandon Freeman tell the story of 19-year-old Ritchie Wheeler (Shiloh Fernandez), who finds his life at a crossroads when the Texas roller rink where he works is forced to shut its doors. Set in the early 1980s, this is a coming-of-age tale in which the hapless but hopeful protagonist must contend with his parents’ divorce, shifting friendships and making choices on the path to adulthood.” Fairly good audience reaction so far. OK review in NY Times on 5/13/11. TRDB.  

3) GOOD NEIGHBORS- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In an apartment complex nestled in Montreal’s Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighborhood, everyone is nervous with a serial killer on the loose. Meanwhile, waitress Louise (Emily Hampshire) and widower Spencer (Scott Speedman) bond with new resident Victor (Jay Baruchel), which could prove dangerous. Staying alive may well mean figuring out who to trust. Jacob Tierney (The Trotsky) writes and directs this mystery thriller.” OK review in NY Times on 7/29/11. TRDB.  

4) THE LEDGE- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “This unusual, character-driven thriller follows young hotel manager Gavin (Charlie Hunnam), who steps out onto a high ledge to commit suicide. World-weary police officer Hollis (Terrence Howard) is assigned to talk him down but is tormented by traumatic issues of his own. The men find themselves debating atheism, faith and the meaning of life, and soon are embroiled in a battle of wills that has each man questioning his commitment to his chosen path.” Only a fair review at best in today’s NY Times (7/8/11). TRDB.  

5) VIVA RIVA!- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Hustler Riva (Patsha Bay) hopes to make a fortune by smuggling large quantities of gasoline and selling it for high prices in fuel-starved Kinshasa, but he’s not the only one with his eye on the lucrative prize. Riva’s plan gets complicated when he falls for Nora (Manie Malone), the girlfriend of local crime kingpin Azor (Diplome Amekindra), but the stunning Nora is also scheming for a big payday in this sleek thriller.” Fair review in NY Times on 6/10/11 but good reviews in general. TRDB. _________________________________________________________________________________________   OPENING THIS WEEK- Not much and I’m stretching it here—  

1) MACHINE GUN PREACHER- 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Gerard Butler stars in this true-life story of Sam Childers, a drug dealer who turns his life around to become a spiritual warrior. His mission? Rescuing child soldiers in the Sudan from lives ruined by their forced participation in bloody conflict.” A few good reviews so far. 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.” No reviews yet. TRDB.  

3) 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.” No reviews yet. TRDB.   

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

5) THUNDER SOUL- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Mark Landsman totes his cameras to a tight-knit North Houston community in this poignant documentary, which celebrates an inner-city high school band leader’s lasting influence on his now-grown students. When Conrad “Prof” Johnson took the reins of the jazz band at Kashmere High School in the 1970s, he had a group that was mediocre at best. But before anyone knew it, the school had a funk powerhouse on its hands. The film picked up awards at both the L.A. Film Festival and South by Southwest.” A few fair reviews. TRDB.       _________________________________________________________________________________________   FLORIDA- At the Stonzek Theater Lake Worth Playhouse-  

1) TALES FROM THE GOLDEN AGE- 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Everyday life in 1980s Romania under Ceausescu takes on an air of comic surrealism in this whimsical collection of shorts written by award-winning filmmaker Cristian Mungiu and helmed by several acclaimed Romanian directors. A lighthearted take on the urban myths that persisted throughout the late communist era, the comedy anthology recalls a time when laughing in the face of absurdity and oppression was the only way to survive.”

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

  2) LIFE IN A DAY- 22011.  Synopsis by Netflix. “On July 24, 2010, thousands of people around the world joined together to document mundane and remarkable everyday life in a single day. Filmmaker Kevin MacDonald led a team of editors to condense more than 4,500 hours of footage and 80,000 clips into a portrait of life as it is lived on Earth. From dense cities to remote and forbidding landscapes, the myriad varieties of human experience are celebrated and revealed.” Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.   _________________________________________________________________________________________   COMCAST ON-DEMAND-  

NEW-  

1) A SCREAMING MAN- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Adam (Youssouf Djaoro) was a security guard at a posh Chad hotel until its new owners replaced him with his son (Dioucounda Koma). In this nation torn apart by civil war, citizens are called upon to help. But Adam only has one thing to give, forcing him to make a devastating choice. Emile Abossolo M’bo and Djénéba Koné co-star in this powerful drama, winner of the Jury Prize at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival.” Great professional reviews and average audience reviews. TRDB.

8/3/11- A very slow but very moving drama about the effects of war on one family in particular. Definitely recommended. TRDB.

  2) LOURDES- 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Confined to a wheelchair for most of her life, lonely Christine (Sylvie Testud) devises a plan to change her circumstances by journeying to Lourdes, the small town in the foothills of the Pyrenees, where many flock to be healed. The journey yields startling results for our isolated hero in director Jessica Hausner‘s Austrian drama, an official selection at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.” Great reviews.  

3) BILL CUNNINGHAM NEW YORK- 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “Living simply and using a bicycle to get around New York, 80-year-old photographer Bill Cunningham tirelessly records what people are wearing in the city — both out on the sidewalk and in the salons of the wealthy. Through his “Evening Hours” and “On the Street” photo columns in the Sunday New York Times, Cunningham has faithfully chronicled the city’s fashions and sparkling nightlife while maintaining his own unassuming charm.” Very good reviews. TRDB.  

4) TALES FROM THE GOLDEN AGE- 2009. Synopsis by Netflix. “Everyday life in 1980s Romania under Ceausescu takes on an air of comic surrealism in this whimsical collection of shorts written by award-winning filmmaker Cristian Mungiu and helmed by several acclaimed Romanian directors. A lighthearted take on the urban myths that persisted throughout the late communist era, the comedy anthology recalls a time when laughing in the face of absurdity and oppression was the only way to survive.”

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

  REPEATS-   1) ANOTHER YEAR- I liked it but friends did not

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

3) AUTO EROTIC- Good review in NY Times

4) BARNEY’S VERSION- I liked this very much. Back On-Demand

5) BEWARE THE GONZO- Haven’t seen this yet

6) BLACK SWAN- Very good

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

8)BRIGHTON ROAD- OK reviews

9) BURKE AND HARE- Fair reviews

10) CARBON NATION- I haven’t seen this yet

11) CAVE OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS- Very good reviews but I haven’t seen it yet

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

13) FAIR GAME- I liked it very much

14) FLYPAPER- OK reviews

15) IF A TREE FALLS- An interesting documentary, I saw it and liked it

16) JANE EYRE- OK reviews– I haven’t seen it yet

17) LIMITLESS- An OK sci-fi film

18)LINCOLN LAWYER- Good movie

19) LOVE CRIME- OK reviews- I haven’t seen it yet

20) MAO’S LAST DANCER- Very good movie–a tearjerker as well

21) MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER- Good reviews

22) QUEEN TO PLAY- I liked this very much

23) SKATELAND- Mediocre reviews

24) SMALL TOWN MURDER SONGS- I liked it a lot

25) SOMEWHERE- I enjoyed the movie- it’s slow so beware

26) SOURCE CODE- OK reviews

27) THE KING’S SPEECH- I liked it with a few complaints

28)TRUST- I liked it

29) WIN WIN- Very good and highly recommended

30) WINTER IN WARTIME- I enjoyed it  

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

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

NEW IN THE SUBURBS-  

1) SILENT SOULS- Jacob Burns. 2011. 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.” Very good reviews. TRDB.   

2) MOZART’S SISTER- Jacob Burns. 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.

3) MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITE- Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “An illiterate handyman named Germain (Gérard Depardieu) befriends Margueritte (Gisèle Casadesus), a highly educated 95-year-old woman. The two couldn’t be more different, with the oafish Germain bewildered by the literature that gives Margueritte such pleasure. Slowly the two form an unusual and intense bond, leading them to a greater understanding of their place in the world, and in each other’s lives.” Early professional reviews are positive but weak for audiences. TRDB.

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

  REPEATS-  

1) CIRCUMSTANCE- Bethel. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “Iranian teens Atafeh (Nikohl Boosheri) and Shireen (Sarah Kazemy) explore their forbidden attraction to one another against the backdrop of modern-day Tehran’s subcultures. Atafeh’s brother, Mehran (Reza Sixo Safai), returns home after drug rehab and is soon dismayed by his sister’s newfound sense of liberation. Giving up on his dreams to become a classical musician, Mehran joins the morality police, causing deeper rifts in the family.” Mentioned in NY Times on 1/22/11 re Sundance.

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

9/19/11- A very good drama that clearly depicts the dangers of living in such a repressive society. Good acting and the movie seemed real. TRDB.

2) THE DEBT- Bethel, Clearview 100, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 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 but friends said it was very violent– ? Hollywood violent. TRDB.

3) THE GUARD- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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.

4) THE HELP- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “In 1960s Jackson, Miss., aspiring writer Eugenia Phelan crosses taboo racial lines by conversing with Aibileen Clark about her life as a housekeeper, and their ensuing friendship upsets the fragile dynamic between the haves and the have-nots. When other long-silent black servants begin opening up to Eugenia, the disapproving conservative Southern town soon gets swept up in the turbulence of changing times.” Good reviews. TRDB.

5) HIGHER GROUND- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2011. Synopsis 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.

6)  LOVE CRIME- Garden Cinema Norwalk. 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 also thought it was just OK. TRDB.

7) SARAH’S KEY- Garden Cinema Norwalk. 2010. Synopsis by Netflix. “In the midst of researching an article about the roundup of Jews that took place in Paris in 1942, American-born journalist Julia Jarmond (Kristin Scott Thomas) uncovers a sobering connection between her story and the home she shares with her boorish French husband (Frederic Pierrot). Gilles Paquet-Brenner directs this gripping drama based on a bestselling novel of the same name that was inspired by actual events.” Excellent professional reviews and average audience reaction. TRDB.

8/15/11- Great script and wonderful acting make this Holocaust movie different from others and I highly recommend it. TRDB.

8)CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE- Danbury. 2011. Synopsis by Netflix. “When Cal Weaver (Steve Carell) discovers that his wife (Julianne Moore) wants to end their marriage, he reluctantly faces the unwelcome prospect of single life with the counsel of the younger and smoother super-bachelor Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling). Meanwhile, Cal’s adolescent son, Robbie (Jonah Bobo), has formed an unquenchable crush on his 17-year-old babysitter (Analeigh Tipton) — but is she more interested in Robbie’s recently unwed father?” Good early reviews. TRDB.

8/6/11- Crazy and stupid but lots of fun. Poignant as well. TRDB.

9) WARRIOR- Danbury. 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.

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

 —
THE REEL DR. BOB
The Reel Dr. Bob

Add comment September 22nd, 2011

FILM REVIEWS #384

Add comment September 14th, 2011