The Reel Dr. Bob

FILM REVIEWS #322

Add comment May 5th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #320

2) KILLING KASZTNER- Here’s what Netflix had to say- “Gaylen Ross‘s compelling documentary explores the story of Dr. Israel Kasztner, a Hungarian Jew who saved more than 1,600 Jews during the Holocaust by buying their freedom from Nazi Adolf Eichmann. With important trial documents and witness interviews, Ross looks at Kasztner’s 1954 trial, which started as a libel case with him as a plaintiff, but ended as a war crime tribunal with him as a defendant.”

4/10- I saw this as part of the Westchester Jewish Film Festival and I thought it was a great documentary. There were so many layers of the story that I would consider this documentary a mystery as well. TRDB.

3) HARLAN: IN THE SHADOW OF JEW SUSS- Premise by Netflix. “Documentarian Felix Moeller profiles one of Nazi Germany’s most notorious — yet largely forgotten — filmmakers in this penetrating biographical portrait of Veit Harlan, best known for directing the anti-Semitic 1940 propaganda film Jew Süss. Rare footage sheds light on Harlan’s method and motivations, but interviews with his descendents reveal conflicted emotions about his tainted cinematic legacy.”

4/10- I saw this as part of the Westchester Jewish Film Festival and I thought it was fairly well done. TRDB.

4) SAVIORS IN THE NIGHT- Directed by Ludi Boeken and starring Veronica Ferres. About a Christian family in a small town in Germany that sheltered and saved a Jewish family from being deported to a Nazi death camp.

4/10- Seen as part of the Westchester Jewish Film Festival this movie was actually  a docudrama- and was terrific. Highly recommended if you can find it. TRDB.

3) PIRATE RADIO- Premise by Netflix. “In 1966, hard-partying British DJs have the time of their lives running a radio station on a ship in the North Sea, broadcasting generation-defining (but banned) music to millions.”

4/10- OK if you don’t take it too seriously. Cheesy ending. TRDB. Netflix.

4) STORM- Premise by Netflix. “As prosecutor Hannah Maynard (Kerry Fox) builds a war crimes case against former Yugoslavian army commander Goran Duric (Drazen Kühn), the key witness’s suicide threatens to let the atrocities go unpunished — unless she unearths new evidence. At the funeral, she meets the victim’s sister, Mira (Anamaria Marinca), who harbors the damning secrets Hannah needs for a conviction. But a cover-up in the ranks may stand in the way of justice.”

4/10- I saw this and liked it a lot. Very realistic and pulled no punches. TRDB. Netflix.

5)  NO ONE KNOWS ABOUT PERSIAN CATS- Premise by Netflix. “What do you do when you can’t play music in your homeland, but you can’t leave your country to play it abroad either? This is the dilemma faced by an Iranian guy and gal who, fresh on the heels of their prison release, decide to form a rock band. Despite having drive and ambition to spare, the wannabe rockers are stymied by lack of passports, lack of funds and lack of musicians who’re willing to leave Iran in this drama from Bahman Ghobadi.” This just opened in a few cities in the US to great early reviews.

4/10- A film worth seeing that shows us what life can be like in Iran today for people who don’t conform to the repressive rules. While the street scenes of downtown Tehran and the music were very good I was only mildly entertained by the story itself as it seemed repetitive and predictable. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

6) BREAKING UPWARDS- Premise by Netflix. “Breaking up is painful — but does it have to be? Subdued individually by their relationship yet scared of life apart, Zoe Lister-Jones and Daryl Wein set out to meticulously orchestrate and manage their split into painlessness in this docu-drama. The New York couple’s struggles attain an extra air of authenticity as they expose — pretty much uncensored — every bit of their four-year, complex and codependent union for audiences to witness.” Fairly good early reviews.

4/10- I found the movie interesting and sad as the couple genuinely appeared to love each other. I’d recommend it. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

7) A SIMPLE CURVE- Premise by Netflix. “Torn between continuing as the woodworking partner of his father, Jim (Michael Hogan), and striking out on his own, Caleb (Kris Lemche) sees an opportunity when Jim’s old buddy (Matt Craven) comes to their small town with a proposition. But Jim’s stubborn idealism may quash the deal. A new relationship with single mom Lee (Pascale Hutton) also complicates things for Caleb in this moving drama set in the mountains of British Columbia.”

4/10- A bit preachy at times but I still enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix.

8)EASIER WITH PRACTICE- Premise by Netflix. “Despite his brother’s (Kel O’Neill) company, Davy Mitchell (Brian Geraghty) becomes bored and disillusioned during a road trip to promote his unpublished novel — until an unexpected phone call from stranger Nicole (Kathryn Aselton) leads to life-changing phone sex. Soon, Davy is full of joy due to the amusing and intimate phone relationship he forges with Nicole in this drama based on Davy Rothbart’s autobiographical article for GQ.” Excellent reviews.

4/10- An interesting story about loneliness and connection between people. TRDB.

9) 35 SHOTS OF RUM- Premise by Netflix. “This heartfelt slice-of-life drama by filmmaker Claire Denis tells the story of widower Lionel (Alex Descas), a train driver, and his grown daughter, Sophie (Mati Diop). The two spend most of their time together, but change is in the cards. A neighbor (Grégoire Colin) becomes attracted to Sophie, a family friend retires and Lionel tries to maintain a friendship with his ex-girlfriend (Nicole Dogue).”

4/10- This film got uniformly excellent reviews but I can’t see why. Boring as hell and I would have turned it off if not for the reviews. Nothing of significance happens. TRDB. Netflix.

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

Add comment April 22nd, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #319

2) CITY ISLAND- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “When he recognizes his son Tony (Steven Strait), whom he hasn’t seen in over 20 years, among a crop of new inmates in the jail he works at, Vince Rizzo (Andy Garcia) decides to bring the troubled young man home with him, much to the surprise of his wife and kids. Helmed by writer-director Raymond De Felitta, this offbeat comedy also stars Julianna Margulies, Emily Mortimer, Dominik Garcia-Lorido and Oscar winner Alan Arkin.” Generally good reviews.

4/10- Know that this is a comedy despite some serious issues. I liked it. TRDB.

2) GIGANTE- Premise by Netflix. “Shy supermarket security guard Jara (Horacio Camandule) becomes transfixed by Julia (Leonor Svarcas), a cleaning woman he spots through a surveillance camera. Soon, he becomes obsessed with watching her in this drama about isolation and loneliness from director Adrián Biniez. Jara designs his life around Julia’s schedule, following her to the movies, the beach — even on dates with another man. Will he ever drum up the courage to approach her?”

3/10- Somewhat slow but I liked it. His obsession at no time seemed dangerous. TRDB.

3) SOMETHING LIKE HAPPINESS- 2005. Premise by Netflix. “Monika (Tatiana Vilhelmova), Tonik (Pavel Liska) and Dasha (Anna Geislerova) are three friends from a small working-class Czech town. Living in a depressed cloud of industrialization spewed from one of the country’s largest chemical factories, the trio dreams of a brighter life, each of the three finding solace through love, fantasy or escape. Ultimately, comfort and happiness surface as they learn to accept the things they cannot change.”

4/10- After a slow start the movie grew on me and I enjoyed it. Yet another view of post Communist living. TRDB. 

4) THE WEDDING DIRECTOR- Premise by Netflix. “Movie director Franco Elica (Sergio Castellitto) unexpectedly finds himself in Sicily, where a local nobleman presses him into videotaping the wedding of his daughter. Instead, the director tries to sabotage the union when he falls for the bride himself. Will he win her love — or are things not at all as they appear? Marco Bellocchio directs this labyrinthine drama, which also stars Donatella Finocchiaro.”

4/10- I was bored throughout most of the movie. TRDB.

5) BEESWAX- Premise by Netflix. “Director Andrew Bujalski uses nonprofessional actors and a small crew to bring a sense of intimacy to this film about twins being nudged out of their “safe space” by an impending legal battle and major life changes. Real-life twins Maggie and Tilly Hatcher play sisters Lauren and Jeannie, who find their shared lives shaken up when Lauren considers a job overseas, and conflicts with Jeannie’s business partner raise the possibility of a lawsuit.” Most reviewers liked this film but none called it very good.

4/10- I found it a bit slow, nothing in particular happens but it was a slice of life and very real. I liked it. TRDB.

5) LA FRANCE- Premise by Netflix. “When her husband writes her from the frontlines of World War I and insists that she forget him about him, Camille (Sylvie Testud) disguises herself as a young soldier and joins the ranks, determined to track down her long-lost love. Writer-director Serge Bozon’s drama chronicles Camille’s epic journey, as her dogged search for answers leads her from the peaceful countryside existence she once enjoyed to the blood-soaked battlefields of war.” Very good reviews.

4/10- A World War 1 movie without a single battle. Testud gets in with a group of French soldiers who desert from the war and the story is about the group, and the horrors of war in general. I liked it. TRDB.

3) COCO BEFORE CHANEL- Premise by Rotten Tomatoes. “Coco Before Chanel is the story of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, who began her life as headstrong orphan, and through an extraordinary journey became the legendary couturier who embodied the modern… Coco Before Chanel is the story of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, who began her life as headstrong orphan, and through an extraordinary journey became the legendary couturier who embodied the modern woman and became a timeless symbol of success, freedom and style. The film portrays the formative years of Chanel’s life, the years of Chanel spent discovering and inventing herself.” Mixed reviews, mostly good.

11/16/09– Saw this and liked it.

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

10) LAST STATION- Clearview 100. About Leo Tolstoy’s last year of life. Just so-so for me. TRDB.

Add comment April 7th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #318

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2) RED CLIFF-  Premise by Netflix. “When a warmongering prime minister (Fengyi Zhang) advances his armies against two rival kingdoms, he unwittingly prompts his adversaries (Chen Chang and Yong You) to work together in this martial arts action-adventure. The ensuing conflict culminates in the epic battle of Red Cliff, a struggle by the sea involving more than one million soldiers. Director John Woo’s big-budget spectacle is based on the novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms.” OK reviews.

3/10- I generally will not watch a martial arts movie but I decided to give this one a chance and promptly turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

3) LA CAPTIVE- Premise by Netflix. “Simon (Stansilas Merhar) is a wealthy man living a sheltered life in an affluent Paris neighborhood. He’s smitten with his companion Ariane (Sylvie Testud) and spends all his time by her side. His obsession deepens when he sets out to discover everything about Ariane, including her past, her secrets and even her most private thoughts. He even begins to follow her, stopping at nothing to allow his complete vision of her to take shape.”

3/10- Boring as hell and I turned it off. Netflix.

4) WARM WATER UNDER A RED BRIDGE- Premise by Netflix. “Inspired by a homeless man’s story, Yosuke (Koji Yakusho), an unemployed businessman, travels to a remote seaside village where a golden Buddha stolen from a Kyoto temple is supposedly hidden. Instead, Yosuke finds Saeko (Misa Shimizu), a woman with an odd affliction: She fills up with water, and when she’s full, she leaks … and the only way to express the fluid is to make love.”

3/10- A little different to say the least but I enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix.

5) ALI ZAOUA- 2000. Premise by Netflix. “Ali, Kwita, Omar and Boukber are a group of urchins living on the hard streets of Casablanca, their everyday lives filled with violence, begging and indifference. To survive, the four youths create a bond of friendship and family among them, but that bond is soon cut short by a senseless tragedy. This highly acclaimed drama from Moroccan director Nabil Ayouch reminds us of the power of hope and dreams even in the harshest of circumstances.”

3/10– Boring and I turned it off after 20 minutes. TRDB.

6) EVERYBODY’S FINE- Premise by Netflix. “Frank (Robert De Niro) just lost his wife, and without their mother by his side, Frank’s grown children aren’t compelled to visit for the holidays. So he hits the road to visit them — collecting various revelations and learning about himself along the way. Drew Barrymore, Kate Beckinsale, Sam Rockwell and Melissa Leo co-star in writer-director Kirk Jones’s family tale, an update of Giuseppe Tornatore’s 1990 Italian film.”

3/10- Cheesy at times but I did like the movie, especially the scenes where De Niro looks at his adult children and sees them as young kids. How many times have I done that? TRDB. Netflix.

7) ALEXANDRA’S PROJECT- Premise by Netflix. “Steve (Gary Sweet) arrives home from work anxious to celebrate his birthday with his wife, Alexandra (Helen Buday), and their children. But nobody’s home, and it isn’t a surprise party, or is it? Steve inserts a videotape titled “Play Me” into the VCR and is greeted by birthday wishes from Alexandra and the kids, and then treated to a striptease by his wife. But as the camera pulls back, Steve sees a gun pointed at Alexandra’s head.”

3/10- Very interesting and different enough that I liked it. A story of revenge more than anything else. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

8) AGATA AND THE STORM- Premise by Netflix. “The pleasant life of middle-aged Agata (Licia Maglietta) — owner of the most popular bookstore in town — is turned topsy-turvy when she begins an uncertain affair with a man 13 years her junior (Claudio Santamaria). Meanwhile, life is equally turbulent for her brother, Gustavo (Emilio Solfrizzi), who discovers he was adopted and sets off to find his biological brother (Giuseppe Battiston) — a married traveling salesman with a roving eye.”

3/10- Just OK. TRDB. Netflix.

2) THE ART OF THE STEAL- 2010. Premise by Netflix. “A gripping tale of intrigue and mystery in the art world, this film traces the history of the Barnes collection of Post-Impressionist paintings, which was worth billions and became the subject of a power struggle after the 1951 death of the owner. Dr. Albert Barnes collected 181 Renoirs, 69 Cézannes, 59 Matisses, 46 Picassos and many other valuable paintings. But the political wrangling over the collection eventually led to its division.” Good early reviews.

3/10- I just saw this on Comcast On-Demand and liked it. Very good and persuasive documentary about how monied interests can effect this aspect of life. A bit too one-sided, one reviewer calling it similar to a lawyer’s brief. TRDB.

Add comment April 1st, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #317

2) THE GHOST WRITER- Premise by Netflix. “A writer (Ewan McGregor) stumbles upon a long-hidden secret when he agrees to help former British Prime Minister Adam Lang (Pierce Brosnan) complete his memoirs on a remote island after the politician’s assistant drowns in a mysterious accident. In director Roman Polanski‘s tense drama, the author realizes that his discovery threatens some very powerful people who will do anything to ensure that certain episodes from Lang’s past remain buried.”

3/10- A thriller and fairly good at that. TRDB.

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2) A WORLD APART- Premise by Netflix. “This powerful examination of apartheid stars Barbara Hershey as South African journalist Diana Roth, a white woman jailed for her political activism. Diana’s fierce commitment to the cause is unfathomable to her 13-year-old daughter (Jodhi May), who feels hurt by and resentful of her mother’s intense focus on issues outside the family. Escalating events push mother and daughter into a climactic confrontation in this drama based on true events.”

3/10- I liked this movie especially knowing that it was a basically true story. TRDB. Netflix.

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

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

4) THE BLACK BALLOON- Premise by Netflix. “Australian model Gemma Ward makes her feature film debut in this family drama starring Rhys Wakefield as a 16-year-old trying to make his way in a new town and at a new school — while also charged with keeping tabs on his autistic older brother (Luke Ford). Toni Collette plays the pregnant mother of the clan, and Erik Thomson is the cricket-obsessed dad in this Berlin Film Festival award winner from first-time feature director Elissa Down.”

3/10- This movie was worth seeing although I had the feeling I’d seen it before. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 30-

1) AFGHAN STAR- Premise by Netflix. “Director Havana Marking’s eye-opening documentary captures the resurgence of pop culture in Afghanistan after three decades of Taliban rule. Following four “American Idol”-type contestants from auditions to finals in Kabul, Marking reveals a precedent in this suppressed and war-torn nation: all ethnicities, genders and age groups are equal — but everyone competing risks their lives to sing for enthused audiences.” Great reviews and I look forward to seeing this movie.

2) AN EDUCATION- Premise by Netflix. “Jenny’s (Oscar nominee Carey Mulligan) Oxford-bound teen life is undistinguished in 1961 London until she’s given a different kind of education after being immersed in the beguiling but hazardous world of cultured and much-older David (Peter Sarsgaard). Even Jenny’s father, Jack (Alfred Molina), is intrigued by him, but her school’s unimpressed headmistress (Emma Thompson) works to keep Jenny’s entire future from crumbling under David’s influence.”

3/10- I liked this movie very much. A few people thought that it was Anti-Semitic but this is a true story taken from memoirs. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

1) CHLOE- Netflix had this to say–“Suspecting her husband, David (Liam Neeson), of infidelity, doctor Catherine (Julianne Moore) hires sexy escort Chloe (Amanda Seyfried) to seduce him and test his faithfulness. But as Catherine checks in on Chloe’s encounters with David, Chloe’s reports become increasingly lurid. Soon, the relationships between all three intensify in unexpected ways. Renowned filmmaker Atom Egoyan directs this psychological drama.” Only fair reviews for this film, called by one reviewer a B- List film with an A- List cast.

2) DANCING ACROSS BORDERS- Premise by Netflix. “Art enthusiast and philanthropist Anne Bass makes her first foray into filmmaking with this moving documentary that traces the journey of a talented young Cambodian man in his transformation from street performer to classically trained ballet dancer. Discovered by Bass in his native land, Sokvannara “Sy” Sar must learn to assimilate to the rigid structures of Western ballet to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional dancer.” No early reviews.

3) JUST SAY LOVE- Premise by Zap2it. “Two lovers explore the nature of their relationship.” No reviews as yet.

4) MANUELA AND MANUEL- Premise by Zap2it. “A flamboyant drag queen exchanges gown and heels for a suit and tie to help a pregnant friend.” No early reviews.

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FLORIDA- At the Emerging Cinemas of Lake Worth

1) A TOWN CALLED PANIC- Premise by Netflix. “Tag along for the small-town adventures of plastic toys Cowboy (voiced by Stéphane Aubier), Indian (Bruce Ellison) and Horse (Vincent Patar) when they buy 50 million bricks, setting into motion a crazy chain of events at their rambling rural home. Now trekking across distant lands, they end up in another world pludged under water in this film based on the Belgian television series of the same name. Stéphane Aubier and Vincent Patar direct.” Very good reviews.

2) FISH TANK- Premise by Netflix. “The life of hot-tempered teen outcast Mia (Katie Jarvis) takes an unexpected turn when her mother, Joanne (Kierston Wareing), brings home a handsome and mysterious boyfriend named Connor (Michael Fassbender), who pledges to bring sweeping positive changes to the household. British writer-director Andrea Arnold‘s sophomore feature won Best British Film at the 2010 BAFTAs.” I liked this movie.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) VINCERE- Premise by Netflix. “Ida Dalser (Giovanna Mezzogiorno) falls for young Benito Mussolini (Filippo Timi) in Milan and sells everything she has to help the future dictator fund his newspaper, Popolo d’Italia. But when World War I separates the newly wedded couple, Mussolini marries another woman. Ida demands to retain her rights as Mussolini’s wife and the mother of his son, but the Fascists have other plans for the dictator’s dark secret in this gripping biopic.” Just opened nationally and has received great reviews.

REPEATS-

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

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

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

For independent movies near you go to-   http://www.emergingpictures.com/exhibition.htm

For all movies go to- www.fandango.com

1) CHLOE- Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Saw Mill Hawthorne. See “above” in Opening section.

2) GREENBERG- Jacob Burns, Bethel. Premise by Netflix. “At a crossroads in his life in New York, Roger Greenberg (Ben Stiller) takes some time to figure things out and travels to Los Angeles, where he house-sits for his brother and forges an unlikely bond with his brother’s assistant, Florence (Greta Gerwig). Acclaimed writer-director Noah Baumbach‘s finely observed relationship comedy also stars Rhys Ifans as Roger’s best friend and Brie Larson as a seductive coed.” Very mixed reviews, more positive than negative.

3) THE GHOST WRITER- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Clearview 100. I saw this and liked it. Nothing earthshaking but a good thriller. TRDB.

4) A PROPHET- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Clearview 100. I saw this and it’s just “so-so.” TRDB.

5) THE HURT LOCKER- Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good movie that took “Best Picture” this year. TRDB.

6) CRAZY HEART- Garden Cinema Norwalk, Saw Mill Hawthorne. I liked the movie but as I’ve said before it reminded me too much of “The Wrestler.” TRDB.

7) VINCERE- Garden Cinema Norwalk. Premise by Netflix. “Ida Dalser (Giovanna Mezzogiorno) falls for young Benito Mussolini (Filippo Timi) in Milan and sells everything she has to help the future dictator fund his newspaper, Popolo d’Italia. But when World War I separates the newly wedded couple, Mussolini marries another woman. Ida demands to retain her rights as Mussolini’s wife and the mother of his son, but the Fascists have other plans for the dictator’s dark secret in this gripping biopic.” Just opened nationally and has received great reviews. THIS FILM IS ON COMCAST ON-DEMAND ALSO.

8)GREEN ZONE- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. Good war movie that packed an important message. TRDB.

9) THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO- Jacob Burns. Premise by Netflix. “Journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist) and rebellious computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace) team up to investigate the unsolved disappearance of wealthy Henrik Vanger’s (Sven-Bertil Taube) teen niece (Ewa Fröling), only to uncover dark secrets about Vanger’s powerful family. Niels Arden Oplev directs this Swedish thriller based on the first novel from Stieg Larsson’s best-selling trilogy.” Very good early reviews. 

10) THE LAST STATION- Clearview 100. About the last year in the life of Leo Tolstoy. I didn’t particularly like this movie. TRDB.

11) MOTHER- Clearview 100. Premise by Netflix. “A murder rocks a South Korean town and suspicion quickly falls on a reclusive, mentally challenged — and alibi-free — young man (Bin Won). When an inept public defender botches the boy’s case, his mother (Hye-ja Kim) sets out to prove her son’s innocence. Acclaimed director Joon-ho Bong (Memories of Murder) explores the lengths a mother will go to protect her child in this atmospheric crime thriller.” OK review in the NY Times.

Add comment March 24th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #316

3) GREEN ZONE- Premise by Netflix. “U.S. Defense Intelligence Agent Clark Poundstone (Greg Kinnear) doesn’t want to hear what Army Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller (Matt Damon) has to say about not finding the weapons of mass destruction — evidence that could launch a war — he’s been sent to Iraq to unearth. Why the cover-up? Rajiv Chandrasekaran’s exposé Imperial Life in the Emerald City: Inside Iraq’s Green Zone inspired this frenetic wartime drama. Paul Greengrass directs.GREEN ZONE”

3/10- I usually do not go for this type of rockem-sockem type war movie but this one packed the important message noted above. Very realistic if a little too drawn out at times. TRDB.

4) A PROPHET- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “After refusing to snitch, 18-year-old Arab Malik (Tahar Rahim) is thrown into a French prison, where the Corsican mafia rules with a firm fist. The obedient newcomer slowly rises through the organization’s ranks but soon begins to double-cross his superiors. A follow-up to his 2005 gem The Beat My Heart Skipped, French director Jacques Audiard‘s A Prophet was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.”

3/10- Very well done with very good acting, Too many names, way too long- I don’t see this as an Academy Award nomination. TRDB.

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VIEWED AT HOME-

1) THE STONING OF SORAYA M- Premise by Netflix. “Set in 1986 Iran at the start of Khomeini’s reign, director Cyrus Nowrasteh’s drama tells the true story of Soraya (Mozhan Marnò), whose husband plots to have her falsely accused of adultery so he can divorce her and marry a young girl. French journalist Freidoune (Jim Caviezel) is pulled into Soraya’s tragic story when he meets a desperate woman named Zahra (Shohreh Aghdashloo).”

3/10- The movie feels more like a lecture than true drama and I didn’t want to stick around for the 20 minute stoning scene. TRDB. Netflix.

2) TWO WOMEN- Premise by Netflix. “Fereshteh (Niki Karimi) is promised to a traditional man from her village, and her newlywed life is fraught with abuse. This contrasts sharply with the life of Roya (Marila Zare’i), a friend of Fereshteh’s who retains her independence by living in the city. Writer-director Tahmineh Milani who would later be imprisoned for the images she put in films such as this one, a revealing work about women’s roles and lives in contemporary Iran.”

3/10- A very realistic movie about the plight of many women in Iranian society. I liked the movie very much. TRDB. Netflix.

3) WORKING GIRLS- Premise by Netflix. “Winner of a Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, director Lizzie Borden‘s gritty drama depicts a day in the lives of several prostitutes working in an upscale Manhattan whorehouse. Told largely through the eyes of one of the girls — a lesbian prostitute (Louise Smith) whose partner has no idea what she does for a living — the film provides a no-holds-barred portrayal of the world’s oldest profession.”

3/10- A new understanding of the oldest profession. Just OK. TRDB. Netflix.

4) WONDERFUL WORLD- Premise by Netflix. “Depressed, divorced and unemployed, Ben Singer (Matthew Broderick) is not inclined to see his glass as half-full. But when his roommate falls ill and Ben must host the man’s Senegalese sister (Sanaa Lathan) in their apartment, his outlook begins to change. Darkman writer Josh Goldin makes his directorial debut with this drama (which he also wrote) about the attitude-adjusting romance that blossoms between Singer and his roommate’s sister.” Poor early reviews.

3/10- This movie deserves the poor reviews it received. Every known cliche and a standard script. I did watch it to the end and the last 15 minutes were a very slight improvement. TRDB.

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Add comment March 18th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #315

2) CARRETERAS SECUNDARIAS- 1997. Premise by Netflix. “Inspired by the fall of dictator Francisco Franco’s regime, Antonio Lozano (Antonio Resines) and his teen son Felipe (Fernando Ramallo) decide to leave their unsatisfying lives behind and hit the road, driving along the coast of Spain in search of wonder and adventure. When they cross paths with a beautiful villager (Maribel Verdú), their road trip takes a series of hilarious twists and turns they never expected.”

3/10- A cute comedy with a very serious side as well and I liked it a lot. TRDB. Netflix.

3) $9.99- Directed by Talia Rosenthal. Premise by Netflix. “JAY McCARROLL: ELEVEN MINUTES- Premise by Netflix. “This revealing documentary follows Jay McCarroll, the delightfully sarcastic winner of “Project Runway” season 1, as he prepares his first post-“Runway” show for New York’s Fashion Week and weathers the ups and downs of a cutthroat fashion industry. With humor and candor, filmmakers Michael Selditch and Robert Tate rip seams to expose McCarroll’s creative process and his arduous road to fashion’s ultimate runway.”

3/10- Very clever animated film but not well developed and I’m not sure of what they were really trying to say. TRDB. Netflix.

4) SUGISBALL (AUTUMN BALL- Premise by Netflix. “Set in Estonia before the Soviet stranglehold was shattered, filmmaker Veiko Öunpuu’s award-winning drama brings together a group of disparate — and desperate –characters from a local housing complex. A writer, an architect, a single mother, her young daughter, a barber and a nightclub doorman make up this collection of lost souls who bleakly face the future while reaching blindly for some form of connection.”

3/10- Awful movie and I turned it off. TRDB. Netflix.

5) THE BIG BAD SWIM- 2006. Directed by Ishai Setton. Premise by Netflix. “Students of an adult swim class find much more than a way to conquer their fear of water in this ensemble dramedy, which follows the life-altering journeys of soon-to-be-divorced schoolteacher Amy (Paget Brewster), stripper Jordan (Jess Weixler) and swim instructor Noah (Jeff Branson). Held back by their past heartbreaks, the three learn that sometimes the only way to move on is to take a really big plunge.”

3/10- A very interesting story with very real characters and I found it very interesting. TRDB. Netflix.

6) SERVICE- 2008. Premise by Netflix. “While the Pineda family matriarch, Nanay Flor (Gina Pareño), brings suit against her bigamist husband, the rest of her brood struggle with their own demons as they operate a run-down porno theater in the Philippines in director Brillante Mendoza’s drama. The goings-on include one son (Coco Martin) dealing with a boil on his butt as another pair of siblings contemplates incest, all amid the seedy sexual shenanigans of the theater’s clientele.”

3/10- The movie was very, very slow but did show a slice of life in this poor, sex trade community. TRDB. Netflix.

7) SHELTER ME- Premise by Netflix. “Lovers Anna (Maria de Medeiros) and Mara (Antonia Liskova) find their carefree lives turned upside down when, upon returning home from vacation, they discover a young Moroccan named Anis (Mounir Ouadi) has stowed away in the trunk of their car to cross the border into Italy. Forming a makeshift family, the trio soon finds the pressures of the outside world threatening to ruin the delicate relationships they’ve forged with one another.”

3/10- I really enjoyed this movie. Great acting by the women especially. TRDB. Netflix.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 16-

1) PARIS- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “As Pierre (Romain Duris), a young cabaret dancer sidelined by a heart condition, awaits a risky transplant surgery, he and his sister, Élise (Juliette Binoche), closely watch the streets of Paris, their lives gradually intersecting with a diverse array of strangers. Written and directed by Cédric Klapisch, this visually striking tribute to the City of Lights co-stars Fabrice Luchini, Albert Dupontel and François Cluzet.” Described as “uneven” it still received fairly good reviews. TRDB.

2) BROKEN EMBRACES- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “Aging filmmaker Mateo Blanco (Lluís Homar) — aka screenwriter Harry Caine — tells his assistant (Tamar Novas) about life before the accident that left him blind, when he became embroiled in a torrid affair with aspiring actress Lena (Penélope Cruz). Harry’s story involves his agent, Judit (Blanca Portillo), and deceitful financier Ernesto Martel (José Luis Gómez). Pedro Almodovar writes and directs this colorful, romantic and tragic thriller.”

12/25/09- I liked this movie a lot. Beautiful photography and beautiful Cruz as well. You’ll probably have questions and lots of discussion at the end. TRDB.

3) WONDERFUL WORLD- Premise by Netflix. “Dejected, divorced and jobless, Ben Singer (Matthew Broderick) is not inclined to see his glass as half-full. But when his roommate falls ill and Singer must host the man’s Senegalese sister (Sanaa Lathan) in their apartment, his outlook begins to change. Darkman writer Josh Goldin makes his directorial debut with this drama (which he also wrote) about the attitude-adjusting romance that blossoms between Singer and Khadi.” Generally poor reviews but a few very good ones so, liking Matthew Broderick, I think I’ll try it. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

1) THE EXPLODING GIRL- Premise by Netflix. “Zoe Kazan carries this indie romance from writer-director Bradley Rust Gray with her finely nuanced performance as Ivy, a college student who uses her Brooklyn spring break sojourn to reevaluate her life and loves. With her current relationship fizzling out via cell phone, Ivy finds herself rethinking her longtime platonic friendship with best pal Al (Mark Rendall). Franklin Pipp and Maryann Urbano co-star.” Three awful reviews and one great one. What can I say?

2) THE HARIMAYA BRIDGE- Premise by Zap2it. “A grieving father learns some secrets about his estranged son while in rural Japan to collect the late man’s belongings.” No reviews yet.

3) REMEMBER ME- Premise by Netflix. “Still reeling from his brother’s startling suicide and his parents’ subsequent divorce, Tyler (Robert Pattinson) discovers a fresh lease on life when he meets Ally (Emilie de Ravin), a gregarious beauty who witnessed her mother’s murder. But as the couple draws closer, the fallout from their separate tragedies jeopardizes their love. Allen Coulter directs this romantic drama that co-stars Pierce Brosnan, Lena Olin and Chris Cooper. Only one early review and it’s NOT good.

4) OUR FAMILY WEDDING- Premise by Netflix. “Comedy Central funnyman Carlos Mencia and Oscar winner Forest Whitaker butt heads as two domineering dads forced to set aside their culture-clash differences and team up to plan their children’s wedding, with only two weeks until the big day arrives. America Ferrera plays the pregnant bride-to-be opposite Lance Gross as her medical resident fiancé in this wacky comedy from writer-director Rick Famuyiwa (Brown Sugar, The Wood).” No early reviews.

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FLORIDA- At the Emerging Cinemas of Lake Worth

1) THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE-  Premise by Netflix. “When her husband (Alan Arkin), who’s 30 years her senior, relocates the family to a retirement community, flawless wife and mother Pippa Lee (Robin Wright Penn) slides toward a nervous breakdown as she reflects on her tumultuous past and befriends her neighbor’s enigmatic son (Keanu Reeves). With a powerful cast that also includes Julianne Moore and Winona Ryder, this pensive drama is adapted from director Rebecca Miller‘s novel of the same name.”

2/10 I saw this a few months ago and liked it very much. I highly recommend it. On Comcast On-Demand as well. TRDB.

2) THE IMAGINARIUM OF DR. PARNASSUS- Premise by Netflix. “Christopher Plummer and Heath Ledger star in this quirky fantasy from director Terry Gilliam. When a deal with the devil comes due, the immortal Doctor Parnassus (Plummer) must renegotiate the pact to save his daughter. Now, with the help of his mystical theater troupe and a mysterious stranger, Parnassus attempts to right the wrongs of his past. The Oscar-nominated film is Ledger’s last, with Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell and Jude Law all completing his role.”

3/10- I haven’t seen this as yet but I probably will at some point. TRDB.

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) LORNA’S SILENCE- About a woman from Albania who marries a junky in Belgium in a sham marriage in order to raise money. I saw this and it’s just OK.

2) THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE- A very interesting study of a woman (Robin Wright Penn) and her attempt to escape her childhood traumas. I liked this one a lot and highly recommended.

RELATIVELY NEW-

1)  THE ART OF THE STEAL- In theaters now, it’s a documentary about control of the famous Barnes art collection after the death of the owner. I liked it. 

2) HAPPY TEARS- About 2 adult sisters who travel home to take care of their father who is developing dementia. Good reviews.

3) EVERYBODY’S FINE- With Robert DeNiro who plays a father who visits his adult children at holiday time. Poor reviews generally. On Netflix with a long wait.

4) THE JOY OF SINGING- A thriller about several characters who join a singing class in France in order to get closer to a target of their mission. I saw this and felt that it was just OK.

REPEATS-

1) ADAM- About a young man with Asperger’s Syndrome. Very good. Netflix also.

2) A SERIOUS MAN- I saw it and did NOT like it but many did.11) NO MAN’S LAND- 2001. About 2 soldiers on opposite sides of the Bosnian conflict who get into a predicament together and require each other’s cooperation to get through it. I saw this years ago and thought it was very good. On Netflix as well.12) THE HURT LOCKER- Very good movie about the guys in Iraq who disarm bombs.

16) WONDERFUL WORLD- See “above” — Coming to Netflix. I haven’t seen it yet.

17) MY ONE AND ONLY- Cute drama about  a woman (Renee Zellweger) who takes her two teenage sons on a road trip looking for a new husband. I liked it a lot.

18) THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE- A documentary about Vogue magazine. Very good. Cablevision Link– http://www.optimum.net/VOD/movies?cat=Movies+On+Demand%2FIndependent+Films%2FIFC+In+Theaters

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

Time Warner Link- www.twondemand.com

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

For independent movies near you go to-   http://www.emergingpictures.com/exhibition.htm

1) CRAZY HEART- Bethel, Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. I liked it but it reminded me too much of “The Wrestler.”

2) THE GHOST WRITER- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne. Roman Polanski’s latest with very good reviews.

3) THE WHITE RIBBON- Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. About a town in Germany at the time of WW1. I did not care for this movie but most did.

4) AJAMI- Clearview 100. See “above” in NEW MOVIE section.

5) AN EDUCATION- Clearview 100. About a 16yr. old girl who falls for a much older man. I liked it.

6) THE HURT LOCKER- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Very good movie about the men who disarm bombs in Iraq. Now an Academy Award winner.

7) A SINGLE MAN- Clearview 100, Garden Cinema Norwalk. About a man who loses his long time lover. I liked it.

8)THE LAST STATION- Jacob Burns, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Saw Mill Hawthorne. About the last year of Leo Tolstoy. Just OK by me.

9) THE ART OF THE STEAL- Jacob Burns. Premise by Netflix. “A gripping tale of intrigue and mystery in the art world, this film traces the history of the Barnes collection of Post-Impressionist paintings, which was worth billions and became the subject of a power struggle after the 1951 death of the owner. Dr. Albert Barnes collected 181 Renoirs, 69 Cézannes, 59 Matisses, 46 Picassos and many other valuable paintings. But the political wrangling over the collection eventually led to its division.” 

3/10- I saw this on Comcast On-Demand and liked it. Very good and persuasive documentary about how monied interests can effect this aspect of life. A bit too one-sided, one reviewer calling it similar to a lawyer’s brief. TRDB.

10) A PROPHET- Jacob Burns. Premise by Netflix. “After refusing to snitch, 18-year-old Arab Malik (Tahar Rahim) is thrown into a French prison, where the Corsican mafia rules with a firm fist. The obedient newcomer slowly rises through the organization’s ranks but soon begins to double-cross his superiors. A follow-up to his 2005 gem The Beat My Heart Skipped, French director Jacques Audiard‘s A Prophet was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.” Very good reviews and I’ll definitely see this one.

11) THE BLIND SIDE- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. About a family that takes in a homeless teenage boy. Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for her performance in this drama.

2/10- This film was undoubtedly the “sleeper” of the year. I liked it a lot. TRDB.

 THAT’S IT FOR NOW-
THE REEL DR BOB
The Reel Dr. Bob

3) BIG FAN- About a guy who has nothing else in his life besides rooting for a NY football team. I saw this and liked it. Netflix also.4) DEATH IN LOVE- About a woman who had an affair with her concentration camp doctor and it’s subsequent effects on her and her family. I liked it. Netflix also.5) DEPARTURES- GREAT MOVIE.

6)FISH TANK- About a 15yr. old girl who lives with her single mother and her younger sister. When the movie brings home a new boyfriend it alters things. I liked it. 7) FOOD, INC.- A documentary about the food we eat. I liked it but eat before the movie. Netflix also.8)THE GIRL FROM MONACO- A famous French lawyer is in Monaco to defend a woman who has killed her lover. He develops an interesting relationship with the bodyguard assigned to protect him. Very good romantic comedy. Netflix also.9) JULIE AND JULIA- Two parallel stories. One about Julia Child and the other about a young woman trying to find herself and finds Julia Child in the process. I liked the movie. Netflix also.

Add comment March 10th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #312

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VIEWED AT HOME-

1) A L’AVENTURE- 2009. France. Directed by Jean-Claude Brisseau and starring Carole Brana. About  a young woman who leaves her job, her boyfriend and the rest of her life to look for fulfillment, erotic and otherwise.

2/10- Interesting at times and also pornographic at times. Miss it. Netflix.

2) DARE- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “In their final semester before graduation from an affluent suburban high school, good girl Alexa (Emmy Rossum), outcast Ben (Ashley Springer) and bad boy Johnny (Zach Gilford) decide to shed their youthful inhibitions and take some very grown-up risks. A twisty tale of betrayal, heartbreak and unleashed sexuality ensues in director Adam Salky‘s unique teen drama, which premiered at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.”

2/10- A fairly good movie about teen angst. TRDB.

3) MY ONE AND ONLY- 2009. Premise by Netflix. “After catching her husband (Kevin Bacon) in a compromising position, Anne Devereaux (Renée Zellweger) rounds up her teenage sons and hits the road, hoping to find a wealthy new man to care for her family in this comedy based on the real-life childhood of actor George Hamilton. Anne finds no shortage of admirers — and on her quest for a husband, she soon discovers herself. Eric McCormack, Logan Lerman and Nick Stahl co-star.”

2/10- I thought that this film was delightful and I recommend it highly- other critics were less effusive. Great Zellweger also. TRDB.

4) SONG OF SPAROWS- Premise by Netflix. “Fired from his job as an ostrich wrangler on a ranch, Karim (Reza Naji) sets out to Tehran to visit his daughter. But on the way, he is mistaken for a motorcycle taxi driver and soon trades in his gentle rural ways for life in the modern world. His wife (Maryam Akbari) and kids soon realize that Karim’s new job and his sophisticated clientele are corrupting his generous nature in this rich, award-winning Iranian drama.” Very good reviews.

2/10- More like a day in the life of an Iranian ostrich farmer, just trying to honest and raise his family. I enjoyed it but a bit slow. TRDB.

5) SWING SHIFT- 1985. Premise by Netflix. “During World War II, a young woman (Goldie Hawn) takes a Rosie the Riveter-type job on a home-front factory assembly line while her husband is away defending democracy. Directed by Jonathan Demme, this is the comedy that began Kurt Russell and Hawn’s longtime real-life relationship. The all-star cast lineup includes Charles Napier, Christine Lahti, Ed Harris, Fred Ward, Holly Hunter and Lisa Pelikan.”

2/10- A very good “war movie”, despite no war scenes, that shows ALL of the victims. Well portrayed and I liked it a lot. Netflix Streaming. TRDB.

6) FRONTIER OF DAWN- 2008. Premise by Netflix. “Following a passionate affair with high-strung actress Carole (Laura Smet), young photographer François (Louis Garrel) finds contentment with the beautiful Ève (Clémentine Poidatz). But as François prepares to marry his new love, visions of Carole begin invading his consciousness. Directed by Philippe Garrel, this atmospheric black-and-white drama meditates on madness, guilt and the nature of happiness.”

2/10- I could not get into this movie and turned it off. TRDB.

7) FROM MEXICO WITH LOVE- RottenTomatoes said “Fight-coordinator-turned-film-director Jimmy Nickerson (RAGING BULL, ROCKY) helms this tale of a self-destructive amateur boxer seeking to follow in his father’s footsteps by making a name for himself in the ring. Hector Villa (Kuno Becker) may have the spirit of a winner, but his better judgment is consistently clouded by his anger.” A few reviews and none particularly good- “too many boxing cliches.” TRDB.

2/10– I saw this and turned it off quickly. I agree with the other critics. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT TUESDAY, FEB. 23-

1) THE DAMNED UNITED- Premise by Netflix. “Arrogant Brian Clough (Michael Sheen) helms England’s soccer champs Leeds United in 1974 alongside confidant and assistant manager Peter Taylor (Timothy Spall), but he manages to bungle the deal in a mere 44 days, winding up fired. Written for the screen by Peter Morgan (The Queen, Frost/Nixon) and based on David Peace’s critically acclaimed novel, this fictionalized account of the notorious sports legend co-stars Jim Broadbent.”

2/10 Haven’t seen this yet but it’s gotten uniformly good reviews from critics and especially viewers.

2) JAY McCARROLL: ELEVEN MINUTES- Premise by Netflix. “This revealing documentary follows Jay McCarroll, the delightfully sarcastic winner of “Project Runway” season 1, as he prepares his first post-“Runway” show for New York’s Fashion Week and weathers the ups and downs of a cutthroat fashion industry. With humor and candor, filmmakers Michael Selditch and Robert Tate rip seams to expose McCarroll’s creative process and his arduous road to fashion’s ultimate runway.” Fair reviews only.

3) $9.99- Premise by Netflix. “When mild-mannered Dave Peck discovers a book about the meaning of life, he snatches it up for the bargain-basement price of $9.99 and blossoms into a voracious reader — who’s determined to share the book’s secrets with everyone he knows. That includes his father, with whom Dave shares an apartment, and his quirky neighbors. Geoffrey Rush and Anthony LaPaglia lend their voices to this stop-motion animation import from director Tatia Rosenthal.”  Most called it a fairly good animated film.

4) SHALL WE KISS?- Premise by Netflix. “After a lovely evening, Gabriel (Michael Cohen) offers his new acquaintance, Émilie (Julie Gayet), a goodnight kiss. As much as she’d like to indulge, Émilie declines and recounts the story of Nicolas (Emmanuel Mouret) and Judith (Virginie Ledoyen), best friends whose innocent smooch ended in disaster. Written and directed by Mouret, this charming romantic comedy set in Nantes, France, reflects on the consequences and complexities of love.”

2/10- I saw this months ago and liked it a lot.

5) THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE- Premise by Netflix. “Director R.J. Cutler‘s documentary offers a rare look inside Vogue as the fashion magazine’s influential editor, Anna Wintour, and creative director, Grace Coddington, produce the highly anticipated September issue. Cutler captures the demanding creative process in action for nine months, following perfectionist Wintour and stylist Coddington as they attend fashion week in Europe, endless photo shoots and intense staff meetings.”

2/10- I saw this a few months ago and enjoyed it. TRDB.

6) BLISS- Premise by Netflix. “After it’s discovered that Meryem (Özgü Namal) has been raped, the young girl is ostracized by her family and community, who hold her accountable for the “crime.” To salvage the family name, her father, Tahsin (Emin Gursoy), orders Cemal (Murat Han) to murder Meryem. But when Cemal refuses to carry out his orders, he and Meryem escape to a seaside town and set sail with a charismatic professor (Talat Bulut).” Mostly good reviews but a few called the story simplistic.

7) CRUDE- Premise by Netflix. “Filmmaker Joe Berlinger‘s provocative documentary explores the ongoing battle waged by 30,000 indigenous Ecuadorans and their lawyers against Chevron for dumping billions of gallons of toxic oil waste into the Amazon. Berlinger examines the environmental catastrophe — dubbed the “Amazon Chernobyl” — from all sides, following the drama as it moves from the contamination site to the courtroom and beyond, even landing on the cover of Vanity Fair.” Very good reviews.

8)FLAME AND CITRON- Premise by Netflix. “Based on actual events, this exciting drama tells the story of World War II Danish Resistance fighters Flame (Thure Lindhardt) and Citron (Mads Mikkelsen). Taking orders from Resistance leader Aksel Winther (Peter Mygind), the two systematically assassinate Danish collaborators and Nazi officers. But they are far from heroic in their personal lives, and filmmaker Ole Christian Madsen explores the serious flaws of these complex men.”

2/10- I saw this a while ago and liked it. TRDB.

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

1) BLOOD DONE SIGN MY NAME- Premise by Zap2it. “In 1970s North Carolina, civil unrest follows the acquittal of two white men on trial for murdering a black man in cold blood.” Just a few reviews and they are positive.

2) HAPPY TEARS- Premise by Netflix. “Jayne (Parker Posey) and Laura (Demi Moore) return to their childhood home to look after their father, Joe (Rip Torn), a lively widower who may be slipping into dementia. The sisters are soon at odds over their father’s care — and over old family dramas. As Joe’s condition deteriorates, Jayne and Laura are forced to confront some unpleasant memories while juggling the demands of own busy lives in this emotional drama.” Mostly negative reviews so far.

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FLORIDA- At the Emerging Cinemas of Lake Worth

1) OSCAR SHORTS- LIVE ACTION

2) OSCAR SHORTS- ANIMATED

_______________________________________________________________________________________

COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) TRUCKER- About an independent young woman who drives a long haul truck. She has her 11yr. old son deposited on her doorstep. I liked this film a lot. Great acting and very good story. Netflix also.

2) NO MAN’S LAND- 2001. About 2 soldiers on opposite sides of the Bosnian conflict who get into a predicament together and require each other’s cooperation to get through it. I saw this years ago and thought it was very good. On Netflix as well.

REPEATS-

1) ADAM- About a young man with Asperger’s Syndrome. Very good. Netflix also.

2) AWAY WE GO- Interesting premise and OK film. On Netflix also.

3) A WOMAN IN BERLIN- Based on a true story, it’s about how one woman from Berlin survives the rapes by the occupying Russian soldiers. Very good and I recommend it. On Netflix also.

4) A SERIOUS MAN- I saw it and did NOT like it but many did.

5) BIG FAN- About a guy who has nothing else in his life besides rooting for a NY football team. I saw this and liked it. Netflix also.

6) DEATH IN LOVE- About a woman who had an affair with her concentration camp doctor and it’s subsequent effects on her and her family. I liked it. Netflix also.

7) DEPARTURES- GREAT MOVIE.

8)FISH TANK- About a 15yr. old girl who lives with her single mother and her younger sister. When the movie brings home a new boyfriend it alters things. I liked it.

9) FOOD, INC.- A documentary about the food we eat. I liked it but eat before the movie. Netflix also.

10) THE GIRL FROM MONACO- A famous French lawyer is in Monaco to defend a woman who has killed her lover. He develops an interesting relationship with the bodyguard assigned to protect him. Very good romantic comedy. Netflix also.

11) JULIE AND JULIA- Two parallel stories. One about Julia Child and the other about a young woman trying to find herself and finds Julia Child in the process. I liked the movie. Netflix also.

17) (500) DAYS OF SUMMER- A romance about a woman not interested in a permanent relationship and the guy who falls for her. Cute story with very creative writing and I enjoyed it. TRDB. Available on Netflix.

18) TSOTSI- About a thug in a South African shantytown who undergoes a remarkable transformation. Very good movie. On Netflix as well. 

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

Time Warner Link- twondemand.com

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS- ( Westchester, Fairfield and your counties)

1) AN EDUCATION- Bethel, Clearview 100. About a 16yr. old girl who falls for a much older man. I liked it.

2) CRAZY HEART- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Danbury, Clearview 100. I liked it but it reminded me too much of “The Wrestler.”

3) THE LAST STATION- Jacob Burns, Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk. Just OK by me.

4) VALENTINE’S DAY- Bethel. Poor reviews.

5) THE HURT LOCKER- Garden Cinema Norwalk, Clearview 100. Very good movie about the men who disarm bombs in Iraq.

6) THE WHITE RIBBON- Garden Cinema Norwalk. I saw this in Palm Springs and thought it was just OK. People I know liked it more however.

7) A SINGLE MAN- Garden Cinema Norwalk, Clearview 100. About a man who loses his long time lover. I liked it.

8)UP IN THE AIR- Danbury. OK movie.

9) BLIND SIDE- Danbury. I liked it. See “above” in Theater section.

For independent movies near you go to-   http://www.emergingpictures.com/exhibition.htm

THAT’S IT FOR NOW-
THE REEL DR BOB
The Reel Dr. Bob

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

Add comment February 17th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #308

2) MAMMOTH- Premise by Netflix. “Lukas Moodysson writes and directs this drama centered on three intersecting stories, one of a traveling New Yorker named Leo (Gael García Bernal), another of his surgeon wife, Ellen (Michelle Williams), and also the children of their Filipino nanny, Gloria (Marife Necesito), in the Philippines. A series of dramatic events unfolds after Leo visits Thailand, causing everyone to reexamine their priorities. Sophie Nyweide co-stars.

1/10- The movie was really about the bind for families worldwide who must work and leave the care of their children to others, paid or not paid. Very well done and I liked the movie a lot. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand. 1/10.

3) BLACK GIRL- 1966. Premise by Netflix. “Working as a governess for a wealthy French family, a young Senegalese woman (Mbissine Therese Diop) accompanies her charges on a vacation to the French Riviera, where her white mistress (Anne-Marie Jelinek) suddenly expects her to do the work of a common maid. This racially charged drama from Senegalese writer-director Ousmane Sembene is often recognized as one of the seminal works of African cinema.”

12/09- Very good movie with obvious racial overtones, especially for 1966. I liked it a lot. TRDB. Netflix Streaming. 

4) A FRENCH GIGOLO- Premise by Netflix. “Josiane Balasko‘s part farce, part drama centers on Judith (Nathalie Baye), an entrepreneur in her 50s who gets caught in a tangle of emotions with sensitive, money-strapped prostitute Patrick (Eric Caravaca) and his cute wife, Fanny (Isabelle Carré). While financially supporting relatives in the Paris projects, Patrick begins to despair until Fanny, who has learned of her husband’s secret profession, drives him back to Judith’s arms and money.”

1/10- A cute farce with some poignant moments also. Recommended for light fare. TRDB. Comcast On-Demand.

5) A NOS AMOURS- 1983. Premise by Netflix. “Winner of two Cesars (France’s version of the Oscar), Maurice Pialat‘s sizzling drama centers on Suzanne (Sandrine Bonnaire), a teenage girl who suffers at the hands of her dysfunctional family. To escape the abuse of her father (Pialat), mother (Evelyne Ker) and brother (Dominique Besnehard), the troubled teen indulges in meaningless sexual encounters, yet declines the advances of a boy (Cyr Boitard) who is perhaps her only true friend.”

1/10- I liked this movie a lot and found it a very realistic story about this wildly dysfunctional family. Netflix Streaming.

6) IN THIS TRICKY LIFE- Premise by Netflix. “When 27-year-old Elisa (Mariana Santángelo) breaks up with her boyfriend and loses her job, she also loses any hope of realizing her dream of becoming a hair salon owner and supporting her two children. Elisa’s only option is to take a job in a Uruguayan brothel, which soon lands her in Barcelona, Spain — and into the midst of a white slavery ring. Director Beatriz Flores Silva‘s atmospheric drama also stars Andrea Fantoni and Josep Linuesa.”

1/10- While the movie was comical at times it really dealt with some serious issues, in particular a plea for help from and for the women involved unwittingly in the international sex trade. Netflix Streaming.

7) CHAMBERMAID ON THE TITANIC- Premise by Netflix. “Armed with a photo of a pretty chambermaid he met aboard the Titanic (Aitana Sánchez-Gijón), a French foundry worker (Olivier Martinez) returns home to share the titillating — and greatly embellished — story of how she asked to share his room. All the while, he suspects that his wife (Romane Bohringer) has been having an affair in his absence — and with his employer (Didier Bezace), no less. Bigas Luna directs this foreign-language drama.”

1/10- A very imaginative and sensitive drama and I liked it very much. Netflix Streaming.

8)50 DEAD MEN WALKING-Premise by Netflix. “Belfast hood Martin (Jim Sturgess) is recruited by a British agent (Ben Kingsley) to infiltrate the IRA during the height of the Northern Irish conflict and quickly becomes embroiled in a dangerous game that could cost him his life if his secret is found out. As other informers are brutally murdered, Martin starts to look for a way out, but his handler urges him to stay undercover in this taut political thriller based on a true story.”

1/10- I needed but couldn’t get sub-titles for this Irish movie and turned it off after 20 minutes. Netflix.

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 COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JAN. 12-

1) DEPARTURES- Premise by Netflix. “Freshly unemployed, young cellist Daigo (Masahiro Motoki) has an epiphany in which he realizes he’s been heading down the wrong career path. Retreating to his hometown, he trains for a new professional role as a nakanshi, or one who prepares the dead for burial. Tsutomu Yamazaki provides comic relief as Daigo’s eccentric mentor in director Yojiro Takita‘s Oscar-winning, richly detailed — if unlikely — drama about finding your bliss.” I saw this movie at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival and LOVED it.

2) THE HURT LOCKER- Premise by Netflix. “Kathryn Bigelow directs this gripping drama (nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards) following one of the U.S. Army’s elite EOD (explosive ordnance disposal) teams operating in the ferocious war zone of Iraq. As the squad identifies and dismantles improvised explosive devices and other bombs, they must also contend with the frayed nerves and internal conflicts that arise from living in constant peril. Ralph Fiennes, David Morse, Guy Pearce, Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie star.” I enjoyed this movie very much.

3) IN THE LOOP- Premise by Netflix. “When the U.S. president and the U.K. prime minister decide to invade a certain Middle Eastern country, skeptical American and British operatives do their best to stop the runaway train to war in director Armando Iannucci‘s scathing political comedy. This 2009 Sundance Film Festival entry stars Tom Hollander as a British international development chief, James Gandolfini as a U.S. general, and Anna Chlumsky as a well-positioned intern.” Most of the people who saw this said they enjoyed it but had trouble understanding the rapid dialogue at times. Should be easier with the DVD.

4) PASSING STRANGE- Premise by Netflix. “A young black musician named Stew (played by singer-songwriter Stew himself) flees his comfortable middle-class roots in Los Angeles for a soul-searching journey to Europe and gets wrapped up in the music scene of 1980s Amsterdam and West Berlin. The one-of-a-kind Broadway musical, which netted Stew a Tony for Best Book, comes to cinematic life courtesy of film icon Spike Lee. The film premiered at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.” I have no personal experience with this film but I’ll give it a try.

5) BIG FAN- Premise by Netflix. “Parking attendant and New York Giants fanatic Paul Aufiero (Patton Oswalt) must reexamine his life after he’s beaten up by his favorite player in this comedy written and directed by Robert D. Siegel, a former editor-in-chief of “fake news” paper The Onion. Also starring Kevin Corrigan as Sal, Michael Rapaport as Philadelphia Phil and Marcia Jean Kurtz as Theresa, the film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.” OK reviews at best.

6) AMREEKA- Premise by Netflix. “Eager to provide a better future for her son, Fadi (Melkar Muallem), divorcée Muna Farah (Nisreen Faour) leaves her Palestinian homeland and takes up residence in rural Illinois — just in time to encounter the domestic repercussions of America’s disastrous war in Iraq. Now, the duo must reinvent their lives with some help from Muna’s sister, Raghda (Hiam Abbass), and brother-in-law, Nabeel (Yussuf Abu-Warda). Cherien Dabis writes and directs.” I saw this and found it very realistic and very well acted.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JAN. 19

1) OUTRAGE- Premise by Netflix. “Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker Kirby Dick sets out to expose the hypocrisy of gay politicians who passionately criticize the LGBT community in public while concealing their own sexual orientation. In addition to exposing the secret lives of powerful policymakers — and the damage they’ve inflicted on LGBT Americans — this documentary also takes a critical look at the media’s involvement in keeping homophobic politicians closeted.” Very good reviews and I plan to see this.

2) DEATH IN LOVE- Premise by Netflix. “During World War II, a Jewish woman (Jacqueline Bisset) had an affair with a Nazi war criminal. Decades later, her two sons live in the emotional shadow of this tryst. One (Josh Lucas) drifts through life until a he’s befriended by a charming co-worker (Adam Brody); the other (Lukas Haas) is unable to flee his stifling relationship with his mother. When the war criminal reemerges, all must confront the past and new directions for the future.” Interesting premise and very mixed reviews, some loving it and some hating it.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON TUESDAY, JAN. 26

1) MOSCOW, BELGIUM- Premise by Netflix. “When harried mother of three Matty (Barbara Sarafian) causes a fender bender with twentysomething Johnny (Jurgen Delnaet), their flirting blossoms into an unlikely affair. But when Matty’s estranged husband, Werner (Johan Heldenbergh), declares that he wants back in her life, she must choose between old, familiar love and the uncertainty of starting life afresh. Christophe Van Rompaey directs this comedy.” Very good reviews.

2) LITTLE ASHES- Premise by Netflix. “This evocative film explores the relationship between two of the 20th century’s most notable Spanish artists: poet Federico García Lorca (Javier Beltran) and surrealist Salvador Dalí (Robert Pattinson). Along with filmmaker Luis Buñuel (Matthew McNulty), they take the country by storm. Amid the jazz and modernism of 1920s Madrid, their friendship grows — as does the sexual tension between Lorca and Dali. Marina Gatell co-stars.” Good reviews.

3) TENNESSEE- Premise by Netflix. “On a cross-country trip to find their estranged father, brothers Carter (Adam Rothenberg) and Ellis (Ethan Peck) — whose life is on the line — meet waitress Krystal (Mariah Carey). The aspiring singer decides to drive the brothers to Nashville in hopes of jumpstarting her career. The trio becomes a united front as Krystal’s husband pursues them, Ellis’s health worsens, and Carter relives the painful past he and Ellis left behind.” Fair reviews at best.

4) THE BOYS ARE BACK- Premise by Netflix. “Following the sudden death of his wife, Australian sportswriter Joe Warr (Clive Owen) struggles to cope with his grief and comfort his young son (Nicholas McAnulty). Being a single father gets even trickier when Joe’s rebellious teenage son from a previous marriage (George MacKay) moves in. Director Scott Hicks helms this touching — and often hilarious — tale of a family in flux, based on a memoir by Simon Carr.” Mixed reviews.

5) BRIGHT STAR- Premise by Netflix. “Critically acclaimed Australian filmmaker Jane Campion helms this drama detailing the passionate three-year romance between 19th-century Romantic poet John Keats (Ben Whishaw) — who died tragically at age 25 — and his great love and muse, Fanny Brawne (Abbie Cornish). Much of the story was inspired by Keats’s poetry and the actual love letters the pair exchanged. Thomas Sangster, Paul Schneider and Kerry Fox co-star.” I saw this and found it very, very boring but friends liked it a lot.

6) SOUL POWER- Premise by Netflix. “In 1974, America’s R&B superstars traveled to Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) for a three-day concert. This documentary of the event, part of which became 1996’s When We Were Kings, is made up of footage unseen for more than 30 years. James Brown, Bill Withers, B.B. King, the Spinners, Miriam Makeba and more perform beloved tunes, while cameras capture daily life in Kinshasa and the show’s preparation.” Good reviews.

7) PROM NIGHT IN MISSISSIPPI- Premise by Netflix. “With actor Morgan Freeman‘s support, Mississippi’s Charleston High School stages its first senior prom to integrate both black and white students. This documentary examines the perspectives of several seniors as they prepare for this historic event. A group of disapproving white parents, who refused to meet and talk with the filmmakers, organized a separate White Prom for their children to attend.” Very good reviews.

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OPENING THIS WEEK-

1) CRAZY ON THE OUTSIDE- Premise by Zap2it. “Just out of prison, ex-con Tommy is ready for a fresh start in life. He moves in with his manipulative sister and her husband, and takes a job at a local burger joint. However, Tommy finds that staying on the straight-and-narrow is not as easy as he originally thought; Gray, his former partner-in-crime, is trying to rope him into his latest scheme. And, to complicate matters even more, Tommy is falling in love with his probation officer.” No early reviews as yet.

2) LEAP YEAR- Premise by Zap2it. “When yet another anniversary passes by without a marriage proposal from her boyfriend, Anna decides to take action. Aware of an Irish tradition that allows women to pop the question on February 29th, Anna plans to follow her lover to Dublin and ask him to marry her. Fate has other plans, however, and Anna winds up on the other side of the Emerald Isle with a handsome, but surly, Irishman named Declan — who may just lead Anna down the road to true love.” No early reviews.

3) WAITING FOR ARMAGEDDON- Premise by Zap2it. “A probe of the politically powerful alliance between Evangelical Christians and Israel.” No early reviews for this documentary.

4) WONDERFUL WORLD- Premise by Zap2it. “A failed singer slowly begins to shed his sour outlook on life with the help of his Senegalese roommate’s sister.” One awful review so far.

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OPENING ON JAN. 15

1) FISH TANK- Premise by Zap2it. “Life changes for 15-year-old Mia when her mother brings home a new boyfriend.” Great early reviews and a winner in Cannes this year.

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OPENING ON JAN. 22

1) CHANCE PE DANCE- Premise by Netflix. “Having risen from humble beginnings to become a popular children’s dance instructor, an ambitious young man (Shahid Kapur) sets his sights on winning a prestigious dance competition that could catapult him to fame and fortune. But as he pursues his dream, he must overcome his competitors and conquer his own self-doubt. Ken Ghosh directs this dance-filled musical delight that co-stars Genelia D’Souza. No early reviews.

2) CREATION- Premise by Netflix. “Paul Bettany stars as Charles Darwin in this BBC biographical drama that captures the legendary scientist in a period of intense mourning — and expansive intellectual discovery — following the untimely death of his young daughter, Annie. As Darwin dares to question the existence of God, he pens his groundbreaking tome, On the Origin of Species — much to the chagrin of his highly religious wife, Emma (Jennifer Connelly).

Described by most reviewers as well acted and interesting but much like a melodrama lacking the imagination of Darwin himself.

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FLORIDA- At the Emerging Cinemas of Lake Worth-

Begins Jan. 8—Jan. 21

1) FOUR SEASONS LODGE- About an annual get-together of Holocaust survivors. OK reviews.

2) THE MAID- About a Chilean family with domestic help. Good movie and I’ll be leading a discussion after the Jan. 18, 4PM show.

Begins Jan. 22–28

1) HOUSE- A 1977 Japanese fantasy about a group of girls who go to a haunted house. Very good reviews.

2) NO IMPACT MAN- About a man who attempts to live with no carbon impact on the environment. OK reviews.

Begins Jan. 29– Feb. 4

1) KILLING KASZTNER- About Kasztner, a man who dealt with the Nazis in order to save Jews. Good reviews.

2) THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN- About a young woman who claims that she was the target of an anti-Semitic attack. Good reviews.

For independent movies near you go to-   http://www.emergingpictures.com/exhibition.htm

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COMCAST ON-DEMAND-

NEW-

1) THE MARC PEASE EXPERIENCE- Premise by Netflix. “Ten years after graduation, high school musical star Marc Pease (Jason Schwartzman) remains stuck in his glory days. But he’s given a chance to face his past once and for all when he helps out his old teacher and mentor Mr. Gribble (Ben Stiller) on a new production. Meanwhile, current senior and Tony nominee Meg Brickman (Anna Kendrick) romantically attaches herself to both men in this offbeat comedy from Todd Louiso (Love Liza).” Uniformly terrible reviews.

2) NO IMPACT MAN- About a man who attempts to live with no carbon impact on the environment. OK reviews. On Netflix 1/19.

3) WONDERFUL WORLD- Premise by Netflix. “Depressed, divorced and unemployed, Ben Singer (Matthew Broderick) is not inclined to see his glass as half-full. But when his roommate falls ill and Ben must host the man’s Senegalese sister (Sanaa Lathan) in their apartment, his outlook begins to change. Darkman writer Josh Goldin makes his directorial debut with this drama (which he also wrote) about the attitude-adjusting romance that blossoms between Singer and his roommate’s sister.” Poor early reviews.

REPEATS-

1) (500) DAYS OF SUMMER- A romance about a woman not interested in a permanent relationship and the guy who falls for her. Cute story with very creative writing and I enjoyed it. TRDB. Available on Netflix.

2) THE COVE- A documentary about mass capture and killing of dolphins in a protected cove in Taijii, Japan. Very well done and with great cinematography. Available on Netflix.

3) POLICE, ADJECTIVE- See “above.” I did not like it. 

4) WOMAN IN BERLIN- Based on a true story, it’s about how one woman from Berlin survives the rapes by the occupying Russian soldiers. Very good and I recommend it. On Netflix also.

5) SUGAR- About a young Dominican man who is being groomed for a career in baseball at a Dominican baseball academy. Very realistic and I enjoyed it. On Netflix also.

6) AWAY WE GO- Interesting premise and OK film. On Netflix.

7) BALLAST- A good movie about the south. On Netflix also.

8)EVERY LITTLE STEP- About the auditioning process for the return of “A Chorus Line.” Great documentary. Available on Netflix also.

9) FOOD, INC.- Good documentary. About the food we eat and in particular, the corporate aspect of food development. Very good documentary. On Netflix also. 

10) I’LL COME RUNNING- About a man who has a one night stand in Austin, Texas and is then visited by the woman after he has gone back to Europe. I saw this and liked it a lot. Very good reviews also.

11) JULIE AND JULIA- Two parallel stories. One about Julia Child and the other about a young woman trying to find herself and finds Julia Child. I liked the movie. Netflix also.

12) MAMMOTH- Story about a man, his wife, and their Filipino nanny. Good reviews but I haven’t seen it yet.

13) THE MERRY GENTLEMAN- About a woman running from an abusive husband. I liked this one a lot. On Netflix too.

14) UNCERTAINTY- About a young couple who are trying to decide where to spend July 4th. The movie simultaneously follow them after two different decisions. Like “Sliding Doors” and others but unique in it’s own way, very well done and I liked it.

15) PAPER HEART- A road trip by Charlyne Yi, an eccentric performer, trying to find the meaning of love. Quirky film and I liked it.

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

Time Warner Link– www.twondemand.com

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BOB’S PICKS IN THE SUBURBS-

1) IT’S COMPLICATED- Bethel, Danbury. Haven’t seen this yet but I hear it’s “cute.”

2) UP IN THE AIR- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. I saw this and liked it.

3) THE YOUNG VICTORIA – Bethel, Garden Cinema Norwalk, Clearview 100. I found this very interesting and enlightening and I recommend it.

4) INVICTUS- Bethel, Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. About Nelson Mandela after he became president of South Africa. I found this too Hollywood to enjoy but most people liked it a lot.

5) BROKEN EMBRACES- Garden Cinema Norwalk, Jacob Burns, Clearview 100. Typical Almodovar and very enjoyable. Great Penelope Cruz.

6) AN EDUCATION- Garden Cinema Norwalk. Young girl is swept off her feet by a much older man. I liked it.

7) A SINGLE MAN- Jacob Burns. About a gay English professor whose long term partner dies suddenly. Very interesting and I liked it.

8)THE HURT LOCKER- Jacob Burns. About a bomb squad in Iraq. I saw this film and thought it was very good.

9) THE LAST STATION- Jacob Burns. About Leo Tolstoy. Fair reviews for this movie but everybody said that Helen Mirren saved the film.

10) LEAP YEAR- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. See “above.”

11) THE IMAGINARIUM OF DOCTOR PARNASUS- Saw Mill Hawthorne, Danbury. Supposedly about good and evil. What isn’t?

12) BROTHERS- Danbury. About 2 very different brothers, one “good” and the other “bad.” When the good one goes missing the bad one takes care of the family. Very good.

 THAT’S IT FOR NOW-
THE REEL DR BOB
The Reel Dr. Bob

Add comment January 6th, 2010

FILM REVIEWS #307

 5) SEQUINS- Premise by Netflix. 2004. “After learning she’s five months pregnant, 17-year-old Claire (Lola Naymark) leaves her former life behind to give birth in anonymity. An excellent embroiderer, Claire finds work with a professional in the business, Madame Melikian (Ariane Ascaride). Both women bear a heavy burden — the Madame can’t cope with her son’s death, and Claire doesn’t want to have a child. As they pour themselves into the work they love, the two develop a strong bond.”

A very interesting story with character growth of all. TRDB. 12/09

6) BLACK GIRL- 1966. Premise by Netflix. “Working as a governess for a wealthy French family, a young Senegalese woman (Mbissine Therese Diop) accompanies her charges on a vacation to the French Riviera, where her white mistress (Anne-Marie Jelinek) suddenly expects her to do the work of a common maid. This racially charged drama from Senegalese writer-director Ousmane Sembene is often recognized as one of the seminal works of African cinema.”

Very good movie with obvious racial overtones, especially for 1966. I liked it a lot. TRDB. 12/09

Add comment December 31st, 2009