The Reel Dr. Bob

October 15, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION– Netflix Streaming

2) MILITARIY WIVES– Netflix Disc

3) RESIDUE– Amazon Prime

4) TEST– Netflix Disc

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A struggling New York City playwright finds inspiration by reinventing herself as a rapper.”

10/9/20- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB. On Netflix.

10/10/20- I enjoyed the movie and I even enjoyed some of the rap music. TRDB.

2) MILITARY WIVES– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “With their spouses serving in faraway Afghanistan, a diverse band of military wives finds a unique way to deal with their loneliness and fears: They put together a choir. But what begins as a distraction soon develops into deep bonds of friendship.”

5/23/20- Mixed reviews — more positive than negative. TRDB.

10/11/20- Simple and predictable but enjoyable never-the-less. TRDB.

3) RESIDUE- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A filmmaker who wants to write a script about his childhood returns home to an unrecognizable neighborhood.”

9/18/20- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

10/12/20- A poignant movie about gentrification and much more. TRDB.

On Netflix and Amazon Prime

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

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

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC.

1) GREENER GRASS– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this absurdist comedy that lampoons politeness and social climbers, the denizens of a synthetic suburban community covet everything their neighbors possess — while hiding their searing envy behind overly gracious veneers.”

10/18/19- Excellent reviews for this comedy but honestly it sounds stupid to me. TRDB.

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) FAITH BA$ED– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “FAITH BASED focuses on two slacker friends who come to the realization that every low budget Christian movie starring 90’s TV actors makes millions of dollars. They soon set out on a mission to make “A Prayer in Space”, the story of the first prayer ever to be prayed… in space.”

10/9/20- Good reviews for this comedy. TRDB. On Prime Video

2) YELLOW ROSE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A Filipina teen must decide whether to stay with her family or leave her small Texas town to become a country music singer.”

10/9/20- Good reviews for this drama. TRDB. In select theaters

3) THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A struggling New York City playwright finds inspiration by reinventing herself as a rapper.”

10/9/20- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB. On Netflix.

10/10/20- I enjoyed the movie and I even enjoyed some of the rap music. TRDB.

4) TIME– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Entrepreneur Fox Rich spends the last two decades campaigning for the release of her husband, Rob G. Rich, who is serving a 60-year prison sentence for a robbery they both committed in the early 1990s in a moment of desperation.”

10/8/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. In Theaters and Streaming on Amazon.

5) A RAINY DAY IN NEW YORK– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A couple’s relationship gets put to the test when they travel to New York City.”

10/8/20- Poor reviews from audiences and critics alike but I’d never miss a Woody Allen movie. TRDB. Buy on Vudu.

6)- CHARM CITY KINGS– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A young boy joins a dirt bike gang in Baltimore.”

10/9/20- Fairly good reviews. TRDB. On HBO MAX

7) BLACK BOX– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “After losing his wife and memory in a car accident, a single father undergoes an agonizing experimental treatment that causes him to question who he really is.”Good reviews by the critics and really poor ones from audiences.10/9/20- OK reviews from the critics and poor ones from audiences. TRDB. On Amazon Prime.

SKIP THESE–

1) AGGIE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Philanthropist Agnes Gund sells expensive artworks to start social justice funds.”

10/9/20- Fair to good reviews. TRDB. At Film Forum.

2) THE WAR WITH GRANDPA- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Peter and his grandpa used to be very close, but when Grandpa Jack moves in with the family, Peter is forced to give up his most prized possession: his bedroom. Peter will stop at nothing to get his room back, scheming with friends to devise a series of pranks to drive him out. However, grandpa doesn’t give up easily, and it turns into an all-out war between the two.”

10/9/20- Terrible reviews from everyone. TRDB. 

3)  AMERICAN PIE PRESENTS: GIRLS’ RULES- The worst reviews I’ve seen in a long time

4) HUBIE HALLOWEEN– Starring Adam Sandler

1) A CALL TO SPY– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “At the dawn of World War II, a desperate Winston Churchill orders his new spy agency to train women for covert operations. Together, these female agents help undermine the Nazi regime in France, leaving an unmistakable legacy in their wake.”10/3/20– Fairly good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) ON THE ROCKS– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Doubting the fidelity of her hubby, Dean, as he takes more business trips, stay-at-home mom Laura turns to her playboy dad for advice. When he suggests that they tail Dean all over town, it leads to a comic adventure and growing father-daughter bond.”

10/2/20- Very good reviews for this comedy/drama.

3) SAVE YOURSELVES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A young Brooklyn couple head to an upstate cabin to unplug from their phones and reconnect with each other. Blissfully unaware of their surroundings, they are left to their own devices as the planet falls under attack.”

9/29/20- Fairly good reviews for this drama/comedy TRDB.

4) THE KEEPER– 2019. Synopsis by IMDB. “The love story of a young English woman and a German PoW, a soccer player, who together overcome prejudice, public hostility and personal tragedy.”

7/27/20- Good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

5) OTTOLENGHI & THE CAKES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Celebrity chef Yotam Ottolenghi assembles a star-studded team of the world’s most innovative pastry chefs to put on a Versailles-themed culinary gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.”

9/25/20- Mixed reviews, mostly negative. TRDB.  limited showings

6) THE NEST– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An entrepreneur and his family begin to unravel after moving into an old country manor in England in the 1980s.”

10/7/20- Very good reviews for this drama/mystery. TRDB. limited showings

October 8, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS-

I read this week that Regal Theaters will again be closing all of their theaters in the U.S. so I will not be reviewing the Regal Theaters in Palm Beach County

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) DICK JOHNSON IS DEAD– Netflix Streaming

2) KINGDOM OF SILENCE– Showtime

3) FIRST COW– Netflix on Disc.

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) DICK JOHNSON IS DEAD– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A filmmaker and her elderly father stage his death in various ways to help them face his inevitable demise.”

10/2/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

10/2/20- A very unusual film- unique, interesting and I’d recommend it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming

2) THE BOYS IN THE BAND- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “From director William Friedkin comes this trailblazing 1970s drama about a close-knit group of gay friends’ reunion at their pal’s birthday party, where snippets from each person’s life are revealed throughout the evening. But when the liquor begins flowing freely, and then a straight male guest arrives unexpectedly at the party, the gay men begin to show their true colors — some of which are less than pretty.

10/2/20- Very good reviews. TRDB. On Netflix Streaming

10/3/20- Dated and not nearly as good as the original. I watched for a short time only. TRDB.

3)  KINGDOM OF SILENCE– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “An in-depth look at Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s life, work, and murder. Featuring interviews and footage that explore his personal and professional relationships with Saudi rulers, jihadists and fellow global journalists.”

10/2/20- Just 3 reviews noted and they are all excellent. TRDB. On Showtime

10/3/20- Very informative but i got tired of watching and keeping track of the “players.” TRDB.

4) HOW TO BUILD A GIRL– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “To escape her dull life, teen Johanna Morrigan creates a new identity for herself as Dolly Wilde, an acid-tongued, randy music critic. Taking her act to London, she elbows her way to the top of the rock scene — but her nastiness catches up with her.”

5/8/20– Mixed reviews for this comedy. TRDB. 

10/6/20- “Bad” would be a compliment for this ridiculous movie. TRDB.

5) FIRST COW- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “For soft-spoken Cookie Figowitz, it’s a lonely life cooking for a group of fur trappers in the early 19th century Oregon Territory. But Cookie finds a friend and business partner in Chinese immigrant King Lu.”

3/6/20- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

10/7/20- If this movie were any slower it would be shown in reverse. Despite that observation it did have merit and I’d recommend it. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

COMING TO NETFLIX ON DISC NEXT WEEK-(may be streamable also)- NONE

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) DICK JOHNSON IS DEAD– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A filmmaker and her elderly father stage his death in various ways to help them face his inevitable demise.”

10/2/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

10/2/20- A very unusual film- it was unique, interesting and I’d recommend it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) THE BOYS IN THE BAND- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “From director William Friedkin comes this trailblazing 1970s drama about a close-knit group of gay friends’ reunion at their pal’s birthday party, where snippets from each person’s life are revealed throughout the evening. But when the liquor begins flowing freely, and then a straight male guest arrives unexpectedly at the party, the gay men begin to show their true colors — some of which are less than pretty.

10/2/20- Very good reviews. TRDB. On Netflix

3) ON THE ROCKS– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Doubting the fidelity of her hubby, Dean, as he takes more business trips, stay-at-home mom Laura turns to her playboy dad for advice. When he suggests that they tail Dean all over town, it leads to a comic adventure and growing father-daughter bond.”

10/2/20- Very good reviews for this comedy/drama.  In select theaters

4) KINGDOM OF SILENCE– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “An in-depth look at Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s life, work, and murder. Featuring interviews and footage that explore his personal and professional relationships with Saudi rulers, jihadists and fellow global journalists.”

10/2/20- Just 3 reviews noted and they are all excellent. TRDB. On Showtime

10/3/20- Very informative but i got tired of watching and keeping track of the “players.” TRDB.

5) AMERICAN MURDER: THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “In 2018, 38-year-old Shanann Watts and her two youngest daughters disappeared in Colorado. With the heartbreaking details emerging, the family’s story made headlines around the world.”

10/2/20- Very good reviews. TRDB. On Netflix

6) THE GLORIAS–  2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Using a bus trip as a framing device, this sweeping biopic chronicles the life of feminist icon Gloria Steinem, from her childhood to her founding of “Ms.” magazine to her role as an activist and crusader for woman’s rights.”

10/3/20- Poor reviews by the critics and by audiences as well but there are enough positive reviews to be tempted. TRDB. On Prime Video and others

7) ETERNAL BEAUTY –Diagnosed with schizophrenia in her early 20s, Jane is finally stable and living on her own. But when she goes off her medication, a new world unspools as she begins a romance with a troubled musician. Fairly good reviews. On Prime Video.

8) A CALL TO SPY– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “At the dawn of World War II, a desperate Winston Churchill orders his new spy agency to train women for covert operations. Together, these female agents help undermine the Nazi regime in France, leaving an unmistakable legacy in their wake.”10/3/20– Fairly good reviews for this drama. TRDB. On Vudu and Prime

9) THE KEEPER– 2019. Synopsis by IMDB. “The love story of a young English woman and a German PoW, a soccer player, who together overcome prejudice, public hostility and personal tragedy.”

7/27/20- Good  reviews for this movie. TRDB. On Kinomarquee.com

10) THE GREAT AMERICAN LIE-The Great American Lie is a documentary film that examines how a US value system built on the extreme masculine ideals of money, power and control has glorified individualism, …  Just 2 reviews so far- 1 up and 1 down. On Amazon and Vudu

SKIP THESE-

1) 12 HOUR SHIFT– Sounds ridiculous and full of blood and gore. On Vudu and Prime Video if you must.

2) POSSESSOR- Inhabiting other peoples bodies. Afraid not!

SHOWING AT THE LIVING ROOM THEATER AT FAU IN BOCA RATON-

1) A CALL TO SPY- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “At the dawn of World War II, a desperate Winston Churchill orders his new spy agency to train women for covert operations. Together, these female agents help undermine the Nazi regime in France, leaving an unmistakable legacy in their wake.”

10/3/20– Fairly good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

2) ON THE ROCKS–  2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Doubting the fidelity of her hubby, Dean, as he takes more business trips, stay-at-home mom Laura turns to her playboy dad for advice. When he suggests that they tail Dean all over town, it leads to a comic adventure and growing father-daughter bond.”

10/2/20- Very good reviews for this comedy/drama.

3) OTTOLENGHI & THE CAKES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Celebrity chef Yotam Ottolenghi assembles a star-studded team of the world’s most innovative pastry chefs to put on a Versailles-themed culinary gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.”

9/25/20- Mixed reviews, mostly negative. TRDB.

4) SAVE YOURSELVES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A young Brooklyn couple head to an upstate cabin to unplug from their phones and reconnect with each other. Blissfully unaware of their surroundings, they are left to their own devices as the planet falls under attack.”

9/29/20- Fairly good reviews for this drama/comedy TRDB.

5) THE KEEPER– 2019. Synopsis by IMDB. “The love story of a young English woman and a German PoW, a soccer player, who together overcome prejudice, public hostility and personal tragedy.”

7/27/20- Good reviews for this movie. TRDB.

6) THE NEST– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An entrepreneur and his family begin to unravel after moving into an old country manor in England in the 1980s.”

10/7/20- Very good reviews for this drama/mystery. TRDB.

October 1, 2020-

DEAR FRIENDS:

AFTER MANY MONTHS A FEW MOVIE THEATERS THAT I MONITOR NEAR US IN FLORIDA HAVE OPENED SHOWING CURRENT FILMS. AMONG THEM ARE THE “LIVING ROOM THEATER” AT FAU IN BOCA RATON AND THE REGAL ROYAL PALM BEACH. I WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR NEW OPENINGS.

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) YES, GOD, YES– Netflix Disc (also on Prime and on Vudu

2) WEATHERING WITH YOU– Netflix Disc

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK-

1) WEATHERING WITH YOU– 2020- Synopsis by Netflix. “In this coming-of-age tale, an ephemeral love affair develops between Hodaka, who’s run away to Tokyo, and Hina, who has the ability to make the sun shine on a rainy day. But Hina’s powers may ultimately doom their budding romance.”

1/17/20- Excellent reviews by the critics and audiences for this animated movie. TRDB.

9/27/20- It’s difficult not to like this animated film about a “sunshine girl.” Creative and interesting. TRDB.

2) YES, GOD, YES– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “High school is hard, but Catholic school is harder. Alice, a strait-laced student devoted to God, discovers more than she bargained for when an innocent AOL chat turns racy.”

7/24/20- Excellent reviews for this dramedy. TRDB.

10/1/20- After a slow start the movie got better and is worth seeing. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC-

1) ROBIN’S WISH– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Class Action Park is the first ever documentary on the world’s most dangerous amusement park, Action Park, that had its heyday in the 80s and 90s and was a staple for anyone who grew up in New Jersey.”

9/3/20- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) MISBEHAVIOUR– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A team of women hatches a plan to disrupt the 1970 Miss World beauty competition in London.”

9/25/20- Very good reviews by the critics and poor ones from audiences. TRDB. On Google Play, Prime Video and VUDU

2) KAJILLIONAIRE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Two con artists have spent 26 years training their only daughter to swindle, scam and steal at every turn. During a desperate and hastily conceived heist, they charm a stranger into joining them, only to have their entire world turned upside down.”

9/25/20-Very good reviews from the critics but really poor ones from audiences. TRDB. In select theaters and on Fandango

3) BIRD ISLAND– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “A young man, posted to a bird shelter as part of his rehab, joins a soft spoken community that includes a mice breeder, a vet, a keeper, and a first aid giver.”

9/25/20- OK reviews. TRDB. On Mubi

4) THE ARTIST’S WIFE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The wife of a famous artist tries to contact his estranged family before his dementia worsens.”

9/25/20- Poor reviews but it sounds interesting to me. TRDB. Available from many sources

5) OTTOLENGHI AND THE CAKES OF VERSAILLES– Celebrity chef Yotam Ottolenghi assembles a star-studded team of the world’s most innovative pastry chefs to put on a Versailles-themed culinary gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.Called “a fun documentary” by the NY Times

6) THE LAST SHIFT– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Calling it quits after 38 years, an aging fast-food worker trains his young replacement on the graveyard shift at Oscar’s Chicken and Fish.”

9/25/20- Weak reviews but the synopsis sounded interesting to me. TRDB.

7) PUBLIC TRUST– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “In a time of growing inequality in America, there is one asset that remains in the hands of the American people: the 640 million acres of America’s Public Lands. Given its status as the last large-scale public asset on the planet, powerful forces have aligned to attempt the largest land grab in modern history, rob Americans of this unique birthright, and make modern day vassals of the American people.”

9/25/20- Very few reviews for this documentary but they are excellent. TRDB.Good review from NY Times. On YouTube

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LIVING ROOM THEATER IN BOCA RATON-

1) SAVE YOURSELVES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A young Brooklyn couple head to an upstate cabin to unplug from their phones and reconnect with each other. Blissfully unaware of their surroundings, they are left to their own devices as the planet falls under attack.”

9/29/20- Fairly good reviews for this drama/comedy TRDB.

2) THE LAST SHIFT– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Calling it quits after 38 years, an aging fast-food worker trains his young replacement on the graveyard shift at Oscar’s Chicken and Fish.”

9/25/20- Weak reviews but the synopsis sounded interesting to me. TRDB.

September 24, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) KISS THE GROUND– Netflix Streaming

2) BY THE GRACE OF GOD– Netflix Disc

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) THE SOCIAL DILEMMA– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “We tweet, we like, and we share–but what are the consequences of our growing dependence on social media? As digital platforms increasingly become a lifeline to stay connected, Silicon Valley insiders reveal how social media is reprogramming civilization by exposing what’s hiding on the other side of your screen.”

9/12/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

9/23/20- Excellent reviews as noted but I couldn’t stay interested. TRDB.

2) KISS THE GROUND– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Activists, scientists, farmers and politicians turn to regenerative agriculture to save the planet’s topsoil.”

9/23/20- One mixed review noted from the NY Times. TRDB.

9/23/20- A thoughtful well made documentary– perhaps a bit too technical. TRDB.

3) BY THE GRACE OF GOD– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “Molested as a boy by a priest, Alexandre Guérin — now a husband and dad — is dismayed to find that his abuser still works with minors. Determined to expose the church’s complicity, Alexandre joins forces with two of the clergyman’s other victims.”

10/18/19- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB.

9/24/20- An excellent and timely movie that grows on you as it progresses. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC. NONE

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) ANTEBELLUM- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Successful author Veronica Henley finds herself trapped in a horrifying reality that forces her to confront the past, present and future — before it’s too late.”

9/18/20-  Really poor reviews from critics and audiences alike. TRDB. On Google Play, Prime Video, Vudu and varius streaming platforms

2) RESIDUE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A filmmaker who wants to write a script about his childhood returns home to an unrecognizable neighborhood.”

9/18/20- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB. on Netflix.

3) GOD OF THE PIANO– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. ” For Anat, music is everything. Having never been able to reach her father’s musical standards, she rests her hopes on the child she’s about to have.”

9/18/20- Great reviews for this Israeli film. TRDB. On filmmovement.com

4) H IS FOR HAPPINESS– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An optimistic 12-year-old girl hatches scheme after scheme to make her mother, father and uncle happy again.”

9/18/20- An optimistic 12-year-old girl hatches scheme after scheme to make her mother, father and uncle happy again. TRDB.

9/18/20- Very good reviews. TRDB. On Vudu, Prime Video and streaming platforms

5) THE SECRETS WE KEEP– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In post-World War II America, a woman, rebuilding her life in the suburbs with her husband, kidnaps her neighbor and seeks vengeance for the heinous war crimes she believes he committed against her.”

9/18/20- Mixed reviews- more positive than negative- barely. TRDB. In select theaters

6) BLACKBIRD– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Lily and Paul summon their loved ones to their beach house for one final gathering before Lily decides to end her long battle with ALS. The couple is planning a loving weekend complete with holiday traditions, but the mood becomes strained when unresolved issues surface between Lily and her daughters Jennifer and Anna.”

9/18/20- Fair reviews but it does sound interesting. TRDB. On Google Play, Vudu and Prime Video

7) THE WAY I SEE IT- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Pete Souza captures historic and intimate moments as a photographer for President Barack Obama and President Ronald Reagan.”

9/18/20- Good reviews for this documentary. TRDB.  In select theaters

8) I’VE GOT ISSUES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A dreamy meditation on daily despair, with intertwining stories of characters who search for the light in the darkness.”

9/18/20- Mixed early reviews. TRDB. On Vudu and other streaming platforms

9) KISS THE GROUND– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Activists, scientists, farmers and politicians turn to regenerative agriculture to save the planet’s topsoil.”

9/23/20- One mixed review from the NY Times. TRDB.

9/23/20- A thoughtful well made documentary– perhaps a bit too technical. TRDB.

10) OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Friends, family members, colleagues and patients discuss the remarkable life and career of Dr. Oliver Sacks.”

9/24/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Kino Marquee

SKIP THESE-

1) THE DEVIL ALL THE TIME- Blood and Gore. On Netflix

2) ALONE- On Google Play and various streaming platforms

3) THE NEST- In select theaters

4) A CHEF’S VOYAGE- On firstrunfeatures.com

September 17, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) COASTAL ELITES– HBO Max

2) THE TRIP TO GREECE– Netflix Disc.

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK-

1) COASTAL ELITES- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In one of the first films to focus on life during the 2020 pandemic, this satiric comedy follows five characters in quarantine: a longtime teacher, a YouTube personality, a volunteer nurse, a young actor and a philanthropist.”

2) THE TRIP TO GREECE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Rob Brydon and Steve Coogan continue their culinary and cultural adventures as they travel to Greece — a journey inspired by Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey” but powered by clever banter, dead-on celebrity impressions and plenty of libations.”

5/22/20- Very good reviews for this comedy. TRDB. 

9/14/20- Just like the “trips” before it this one was good as well. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON DISC NEXT WEEK-

1) ALL TOGETHER NOW– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An optimistic, talented teen clings to a huge secret: She’s homeless and living on a bus. When tragedy strikes, can she learn to accept a helping hand?”

8/28/20- OK reviews for this drama. TRDB.

8/29/20- I just saw this new movie and enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) WEATHERING WITH YOU– 2020- Synopsis by Netflix. “In this coming-of-age tale, an ephemeral love affair develops between Hodaka, who’s run away to Tokyo, and Hina, who has the ability to make the sun shine on a rainy day. But Hina’s powers may ultimately doom their budding romance.”

1/17/20- Excellent reviews by the critics and audiences for this animated movie. TRDB.

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “All In: The Fight for Democracy examines the often overlooked, yet insidious issue of voter suppression in the United States in anticipation of the 2020 Presidential Election. The film interweaves personal experiences with current activism and historical insight to expose a problem that has corrupted our democracy from the very beginning. With the perspective and expertise of Stacey Abrams, the former Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives, the documentary will offer an insider’s look into laws and barriers to voting that most people don’t even know is a threat to their basic rights as citizens of the United States.”

9/12/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Amazon

2) BUOYANCEY– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “There is evil and it helps keep the world running, our clothes and food coming. This is the greatest, most difficult, most unspeakable violence laid bare in Rathjen’s measured, insistently political movie.

Very good reviews, especially from the NY Times. On Kino

3) RED, WHITE & WASTED– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “RED, WHITE & WASTED follows a family of mudding enthusiasts as the last mudhole in Orlando, Florida goes up in flames and they are forced to reconsider their way of life in a city that doesn’t have room for them anymore.”

9/12/2020- Mixed reviews- more up than down for this documentary. TRDB.

4) THE SOCIAL DILEMMA– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “We tweet, we like, and we share–but what are the consequences of our growing dependence on social media? As digital platforms increasingly become a lifeline to stay connected, Silicon Valley insiders reveal how social media is reprogramming civilization by exposing what’s hiding on the other side of your screen.”

9/12/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Netflix

4) UNPPREGNANT– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In Unpregnant, seventeen-year-old Veronica (Haley Lu Richardson) never thought she’d want to fail a test–that is, until she finds herself staring at a piece of plastic with a blue plus. With a promising college-bound future now disappearing before her eyes, Veronica considers a decision she never imagined she’d have to make.”

9/12/20– Very good reviews from the critics and weak ones from audiences. TRDB. On HMO MAX

5) COASTAL ELITES– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “In one of the first films to focus on life during the 2020 pandemic, this satiric comedy follows five characters in quarantine: a longtime teacher, a YouTube personality, a volunteer nurse, a young actor and a philanthropist.” On HBO.

September 10, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) LOVE GUARANTEED– Netflix Streaming

2) I’M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS– Netflix Streaming

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC.- SOME MAY STREAM AS WELL-

1) EARTH- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Humankind’s enormous effect on Earth’s landscape is examined at seven sites around the globe where industry and resource mining are decimating vast tracts of land, ruining unspoiled environments and irreversibly destroying ecosystems.”

1/10/20- Could be interesting. TRDB.

2) WEATHERING WITH YOU– 2020- Synopsis by Netflix. “In this coming-of-age tale, an ephemeral love affair develops between Hodaka, who’s run away to Tokyo, and Hina, who has the ability to make the sun shine on a rainy day. But Hina’s powers may ultimately doom their budding romance.”

1/17/20- Excellent reviews by the critics and audiences for this animated movie. TRDB.

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK-

1) LOVE, GUARANTEED– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “To save her small law firm, earnest lawyer Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook) takes a high-paying case from Nick (Damon Wayans Jr.), a charming new client who wants to sue a dating website that guarantees love. But as the case heats up, so do Susan and Nick’s feelings for each other.”

9/7/20- Ridiculous but fun regardless. TRDB. On Netflix Streaming

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) CLASS ACTION PARK– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Class Action Park is the first ever documentary on the world’s most dangerous amusement park, Action Park, that had its heyday in the 80s and 90s and was a staple for anyone who grew up in New Jersey.”

9/3/20- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB. HBO MAX

2) I’M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “In this adaptation of Iain Reid’s psychological horror novel, a young woman embarks on a road trip with her new boyfriend to meet his parents at their isolated Oklahoma farm — where reality is elusive.”

9/5/20- Good early reviews and I’ll try to see it soon. TRDB. On Netflix.

9/8/20- This movie definitely wins the “strange” award but it was interesting. TRDB. Netflix.

3) ROBIN’S WISH– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Class Action Park is the first ever documentary on the world’s most dangerous amusement park, Action Park, that had its heyday in the 80s and 90s and was a staple for anyone who grew up in New Jersey.”

9/3/20- Fairly good reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Prime Video and Vudu

4) CHUCK BERRY– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “CHUCK BERRY tells the story of the Granddaddy of Rock & Roll. In this highly-anticipated OFFICIAL and fully-authorized feature documentary, the absolute instigator of Rock and Roll, Chuck Berry, is truly revealed with exclusive access to his family, friends, famous fans and the music icons he inspired.”

5) FEELS GOOD MAN– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes.  “In this cautionary tale, artist Matt Furie fights to regain control of his cartoon character Pepe the Frog after the Internet meme — created for a comic about postcollege slacker life — is co-opted by the alt-right and turned into a symbol of hate.”

9/5/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. On Prime Video

6) CRITICAL THINKING– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Making his directorial debut with this fact-based drama, John Leguizamo stars as a dedicated teacher who — against all odds — leads a team of underprivileged kids from one of Miami’s toughest high schools to the national chess championship.” Good reviews. On Prime Video

7) THE MOLE AGENT– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “When a private eye recruits him to pose as a retirement home resident to suss out elder abuse, 83-year-old widower Sergio is happy for the distraction. As he’s gathering information, Sergio ends up becoming involved in the lives of various residents.”

9/5/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Vudu

8) THE GOLDEN GIRL– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Andreea Raducan is a successful 32-year-old woman and one of Romania’s greatest gymnasts. She worked all her life to become an Olympic champion, and when she finally won the all-round Olympic gold medal in Sydney in 2000, she was stripped of it 3 days later, after being found positive for a doping substance found in a flu tablet that her doctor had administered to her just minutes before entering the competition. Fifteen years later, Andreea is fighting the toughest fight against the people who deceived her, as she tries to recover her medal and, along with it, her dignity.”

9/5/20- Just 3 reviews so far– 2 positive and 1 negative. Sounds interesting. TRDB. Not sure yet where to see this movie.

9) I HATE NEW YORK– 2018. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “New York, 2007-2017. Over a decade, the director delves into the private world of Amanda Lepore, Chloe Dzubilo, Sophia Lamar and T De Long; four artists and transgender activists from the city’s underground scene.”

9/5/20-  Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Prime Video

10) CHILDREN OF THE SEA– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “When Ruka was younger, she saw a ghost in the water at the aquarium where her dad works. Now she feels drawn toward the aquarium and the two mysterious boys she meets there, Umi and Sora. They were raised by dugongs and hear the same strange calls from the sea as she does. Ruka’s dad and the other adults who work at the aquarium are only distantly aware of what the children are experiencing as they get caught up in the mystery of the worldwide disappearance of the oceans’ fish.”

9/5/20- Weak reviews for this animated  documentary. TRDB. On Vudu

11) ISADORA’S CHILDREN– 2020. Synopsis by IMDB. “After the death of her two children, the legendary dancer Isadora Duncan composed a farewell solo entitled “The Mother”. A century later, four women meet this upsetting dance.”

9/5/20- No reviews as yet. TRDB.

12)  LOVE GUARANTEED– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “To save her small law firm, earnest lawyer Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook) takes a high-paying case from Nick (Damon Wayans Jr.), a charming new client who wants to sue a dating website that guarantees love. But as the case heats up, so do Susan and Nick’s feelings for each other.”

9/4/20- Poor reviews for what sounds like a cute story. TRDB.

9/7/20- Ridiculous but some fun regardless. TRDB.

September 3, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) ALL TOGETHER NOW– Netflix Streaming

2) RISING PHOENIX– Netflix Streaming

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MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) ALL TOGETHER NOW– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An optimistic, talented teen clings to a huge secret: She’s homeless and living on a bus. When tragedy strikes, can she learn to accept a helping hand?”

8/28/20- OK reviews for this drama. TRDB.

8/29/20- I just saw this new movie and enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

2) RISING PHOENIX– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Elite athletes and insiders reflect on the Paralympic Games and examine how they impact a global understanding of disability, diversity and excellence.”

8/29/20- Very good reviews. TRDB.

9/2/20- An excellent, moving documentary. TRDB.

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COMING TO NETFLIX ON DISC NEXT WEEK-

NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) GHOST TROPIC– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Khadija (Saadia Bentaïeb) is a fifty-eight-year-old Maghrebi cleaning woman living in Brussels in the wake of the 2016 bombings that shook the city. After work one night, she falls asleep on the last subway train, wakes up at the end of the line and has no choice but to make her way home–all the way across the city–on foot. Along the way, she has a series of encounters: with a security guard, a convenience store clerk, a group of teenagers. She asks for help and she gives it and slowly, steadily makes her way.”

8/28/20- Excellent reviews for this foreign drama. TRDB. On Virtual cinemas-cinemaguild.com

2) ALL TOGETHER NOW– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “An optimistic, talented teen clings to a huge secret: She’s homeless and living on a bus. When tragedy strikes, can she learn to accept a helping hand?”

8/28/20- OK reviews for this drama. The NY Times gave it a good review. TRDB. On Netflix.

8/29/20-  I just saw this new movie and enjoyed it. TRDB. Netflix Streaming.

3) MR. SOUL!- 2018. Synopsis by Netflix. “Asked to produce the “Black Tonight Show” in 1968, openly gay African-American Ellis Haizlip declined because he had something else in mind: a weekly program called “Soul,” which would provide a national stage for black artists and intellectuals.”

8/29/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On mistersoulmovie.com

4) MADE IN BANGLADESH– 2019. Synopsis by Netflix. “After fleeing her Bangladeshi village to avoid becoming a child bride, Shimu Akhtar — now 23 — labors at a garment factory in Dhaka. When a workplace fire kills a co-worker, Shimu leads the battle to unionize despite opposition from all sides.”

8/29/20- Excellent reviews for this Indian drama. TRDB.

5) FATIMA– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “With World War I raging across Europe, the Virgin Mary appears to a 10-year-old shepherd girl and her two young cousins in Fátima, Portugal. But skeptical family members and government officials are determined to silence the children.”

8/29/20- Weak reviews from the critics and very good ones from audiences. TRDB. On Google Play

6) MATTHIAS & MAXIME– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “While working on a short film for a student project, two friends engage in a kiss as part of the script. The intimate moment sets off a chain reaction of events, from lingering questions about their sexuality to altering the nature of their friendship and their relationship to their wider social circle.”

8/29/19- Weak reviews by the critics and OK ones from audiences. TRDB. On Netflix disc.

7) RISING PHOENIX– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix.” Elite athletes and insiders reflect on the Paralympic Games and examine how they impact a global understanding of disability, diversity and excellence. ”

8/29/20- Very good reviews. On Netflix.

9/2/20- An excellent, moving documentary. TRDB. Netflix Streamng.

8) EPICENTRO– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Challenging outsiders’ view of Cuba as an isolated land mired in the past, director Hubert Sauper looks at the country’s history, mythology and future, paying particular attention to the young people determined to shape their home in their image.”

8/29/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

9) YOU CANNOT KILL DAVID ARQUETTE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. ” In a publicity stunt to plug a movie, actor David Arquette was crowned world wrestling (heavyweight) champ in 2000, which infuriated genuine grapplers the world over. Two decades later, Arquette returns to the ring — for real — to redeem himself.”

8/30/20- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Prime Video.

GET DUKED–

THE BINGE– On Hulu

AUGUST 19, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS-

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK-

_____________________________________________________________________

COMING TO NETFLX ON DISC.-

_____________________________________________________________________

NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) BOYS STATE– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Boys State is a political coming-of-age story, examining the health of American democracy through an unusual experiment: a thousand 17-year-old boys from across Texas gather together to build a representative government from the ground up. High-minded ideals collide with low-down dirty tricks as four boys of diverse backgrounds and political views navigate the challenges of organizing political parties, shaping consensus, and campaigning for the highest office at Texas Boys State–governor.”

8/14/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Apple TV+

2) AN EASY GIRL– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A teen girl is drawn to her cousin’s hedonistic lifestyle when they spend the summer together in Cannes as she learns about herself and her own values.”

8/14/20- Excellent reviews by the critics and poor ones from audiences. TRDB. On Netflix.

3) MARTIN MARGIELA: IN HIS OWN WORDS– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “One of the most revolutionary and influential fashion designers of his time, Martin Margiela has remained an elusive figure the entirety of his decades-long career. From Jean Paul Gaultier’s assistant to creative director at Hermès to leading his own House, Margiela never showed his face publicly and avoided interviews, but reinvented fashion with his radical style through forty-one provocative collections. Now, for the first time, the “Banksy of fashion” reveals his drawings, notes, and personal items in this exclusive, intimate profile of his vision.”

8/14/20- Very good reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Virtual Cinemas.

4) A THOUSAND CUTS. 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Nowhere is the worldwide erosion of democracy, fueled by social media disinformation campaigns, more starkly evident than in the authoritarian regime of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Journalist Maria Ressa places the tools of the free press–and her freedom–on the line in defense of truth and democracy. On Virtual Cinemas.

8/14/20- Great reviews for this suspenseful documentary. TRDB.

5) YUSUF HAWKINS: STORM OVER BROOKLYN- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “YUSUF HAWKINS: STORM OVER BROOKLYN, directed by Muta’Ali Muhammad (“Life’s Essentials with Ruby Dee”) tells the story of Yusuf Hawkins, a black teenager who was murdered in 1989 by a group of young white men in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. Yusuf Hawkins’ death and the official response to it sparked outrage in New York, unleashing a torrent of racial tension and spurring tireless civil rights activism that exposed deep racial prejudices and inequities which continue to plague the country today.”

8/14/20- Fair reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

6) REPRESENT– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Equal parts personal and political, REPRESENT follows three women on both sides of the aisle who share the singular goal of improving their community through public service. Myya attempts to spark a youth movement and unseat the incumbent mayor of Detroit; Bryn, a farmer and working mother in Granville, OH, runs for township trustee; and Julie walks a tightrope between her identities as a Korean immigrant and Republican candidate for State Representative in a liberal Chicago suburb.”

8/14/20- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

The next few received really poor reviews and I’d skip them!

PROJECT POWER- Poor reviews. On Netflix.

MADE IN ITALY- Lousy reviews from all. On Amazon

SPREE- Poor reviews

THE BAY OF SILENCE- Miserable reviews. On Virtual Cinemas

ENJOY!!

THE REEL DR. BOB

AUGUST 6, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:-

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) CORPUS CHRISTI- Netflix Disc.

2) A MOST BEAUTIFUL THING– Netflix Stream

3) THE LAST DANCE– Netflix- Netflix Stream

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MOVIES I SAW LAST WEEK AT HOME-

1) CORPUS CHRISTI– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “As 20-year-old Daniel is serving time in a youth detention center, he finds God. But after being released on parole, Daniel is unable to enter seminary school because of his violent past — prompting him to pose as a parish priest.”

3/11/20- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

7/31/20- I enjoyed this unusual movie from Poland. Great acting by the main character. TRDB. Netflix Disc.

2) A MOST BEAUTIFUL THING- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “This uplifting documentary details the story of the first black high-school rowing team in the United States, formed in the 1990s at Chicago’s Manley High School — and which included young men from rival gangs.”

7/31/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On X-finity On Demand

7/31/20- An excellent documentary that might offer some ideas for police departments around the nation. TRDB.

3) RADIOACTIVE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engrossing biopic chronicles the singular path of legendary scientist Marie Curie, who — with her husband, Pierre — achieves global fame and wins a Nobel Prize for the 1903 discovery of the radioactive element radium.”

7/24/20- Weak reviews for this drama but I’ll see it eventually because of my interest in Curie. TRDB.

8/1/20- This movie earned its weak reviews. Skip it. TRDB. Amazon Prime.

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DISC.-

1) A WHITE, WHITE DAY– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “After his wife dies in a mysterious car crash, police chief Ingimundur falls into a deep emotional crisis. Torn apart by grief, he grows more bitter and unbalanced, and begins stalking a man who may have had an affair with Ingimundur’s wife.”

4/17/20- Very good reviews. TRDB.

2) HOW TO BUILD A GIRL– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “To escape her dull life, teen Johanna Morrigan creates a new identity for herself as Dolly Wilde, an acid-tongued, randy music critic. Taking her act to London, she elbows her way to the top of the rock scene — but her nastiness catches up with her.”

5/8/20– Fairly good reviews for this comedy. TRDB. 

3) LUCKY GRANDMA– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Ornery Grandma Wong isn’t about to give up her independence and move in with her son. Taking a fortuneteller’s advice, she heads to Atlantic City and goes all in at a casino — but when her escapade goes awry, she ends up in the midst of a gang war.”

5/22/20- Very good reviews! TRDB.

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind is an exploration of the career, music, and influence of legendary Canadian musical icon Gordon Lightfoot. With unprecedented access to the artist, the documentary follows Lightfoot’s evolution from Christian choirboy to troubled troubadour to international star and beloved Canadian icon.”

7/30/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB.

2) THE HATER- 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “A duplicitous young man finds success in the dark world of social media smear tactics – but his virtual vitriol soon has violent real-life consequences.”.

7/30/20- Fair reviews at best for this movie from Poland. TRDB. On Netflix.

3) THE FIGHT– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “President Donald Trump’s 2016 election and persistent attacks on civil rights have ushered in new challenges for American Civil Liberties Union attorneys. This absorbing documentary centers on four key legal battles confronting them.”

7/31/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On Google Play, Amazon Prime and others

4) REBUILDING PARADISE-2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Claiming 85 lives and laying to waste the town of Paradise, California, the 2018 Camp Fire was the most destructive blaze in the state’s history. Director Ron Howard, who has ties to the community, follows a group of refugees as they try to rebuild.”

7/31/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary by Ron Howard. TRDB. On some virtual platforms.

5) THE SHADOW OF VIOLENCE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “With his boxing career behind him, Douglas Armstrong ekes out a living as an enforcer for the drug-dealing Devers clan in his depressed Irish community. But a conflict emerges just as he begins to make headway with his autistic young son.”

7/31/20- Excellent reviews for this drama. TRDB. In theaters Only! ? I don’t know where.

6) A MOST BEAUTIFUL THING- 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “This uplifting documentary details the story of the first black high-school rowing team in the United States, formed in the 1990s at Chicago’s Manley High School — and which included young men from rival gangs.”

7/31/20- Excellent reviews for this documentary. TRDB. On X-finity On Demand

7/31/20- An excellent documentary that might offer some ideas for police departments around the nation. TRDB.

7) THE CUBAN– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Academy award winner Louis Gossett Jr. expands his repertoire of exceptional performances in the role of Luis, an elderly Cuban musician who is brought out of his shell by his care worker, a young Afghan immigrant named Mina. Mina’s attempts to get through to Luis, even just to feed him, are futile. That is, until she discovers the music. A poster of Benny More inspires Mina to hum a jazz tune that, to her surprise, ignites a spark inside him. As each day passes the music awakens Luis more and more until the colorful world of his past becomes vibrant and real again. Mina comes into her own as she gets to know him and their friendship blossoms.”

7/31/20- Fair reviews for this drama. TRDB. On Virtual cinemas

8) SUMMERLAND–  2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Nursing a broken heart, Alice isolates herself in her coastal cottage in Southern England to work on her thesis as World War II rages across Europe. But her seclusion ends when she’s forced to take in young Frank, an evacuee from London.”

7/31/20- Fair reviews for this drama BUT it sounds good to me. TRDB. Prime Video

9) A GIRL MISSING– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Home-care nurse Ichiko has tended to the matriarch of the Oishos clan for years, growing ever closer to the family. But that relationship is imperiled when the clan’s teen daughter Saki is kidnapped, and Ichiko’s nephew turns out to be the culprit.”

7/31/20- Mixed reviews– more OK. TRDB. On Virtual Cinemas

10) SERIOUSLY SINGLE– Very good review from the NY Times- others not so good.

11) HOST- Horror and I’m not interested.

12) THE LAST DANCE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “A compelling and comprehensive portrait of one of basketball’s great teams, The Last Dance‘s blend of archival footage and candid interviews confirms there’s nobody quite like Mike or the team he led to victory.

 8/5/20- Great reviews and I’ve watched the first 5 of 10 episodes and I liked it very much. TRDB. 

JULY 30, 2020

DEAR FRIENDS:

QUICK LOOK AT MY FAVORITES OF THE WEEK-

1) THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND– Netflix.

2) SAINT FRANCES– Netflix by Disc.

_____________________________________________________________________

MOVIES I SAW THIS WEEK-

1) THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Against all the odds, a thirteen year old boy in Malawi invents an unconventional way to save his family and village from famine. Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba.”

3/1/19- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/23/20- I liked this movie very much. TRDB. Netflix.

2) SAINT FRANCES– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “Fresh on the heels of an unplanned pregnancy and subsequent abortion, Bridget is in no mood for care-giving when she’s offered a job as a 6-year-old’s nanny. But after getting off to a rocky start, she begins to form a connection with her charge.”

2/29/20- Very good reviews. TRDB.

7/26/20- I liked this drama very much and highly recommend it. The 6 year old girl is wonderful. TRDB. Netflix (Disc.)

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COMING TO NETFLIX NEXT WEEK ON DVD-

1) SWALLOW– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “A loving husband, a beautiful house, doting in-laws: Newly pregnant Hunter seems to have it all. But when her home starts to feel like a prison, she begins the subliminally subversive act of swallowing household objects to regain control.”

3/7/20- Very good reviews for this drama. TRDB.

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NEW STREAMABLE MOVIES-

1) RADIOACTIVE– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “This engrossing biopic chronicles the singular path of legendary scientist Marie Curie, who — with her husband, Pierre — achieves global fame and wins a Nobel Prize for the 1903 discovery of the radioactive element radium.”

7/24/20- Weak reviews for this drama but I’ll see it eventually because of my interest in Curie. TRDB. On Amazon.

2) SOLEIL O- Very good review from the NY Times but I can’t find any others. Streaming on Criterion Channel

3) DAYS OF THE WHALE– 2019. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Cristina and Simon are two young graffiti artists who paint the city that they live in. Their restless spirit leads them to defy a criminal gang when they decide to paint the mural of a whale over a threat written in a wall. The love that unites them, their friendship with other artists at La selva–an old house they use as a refuge–and familiar tensions, come together to tell a story where the powerful strength of youth faces fear, violence and the difficulties of growing up.”

7/24/20- Excellent reviews. TRDB.

4) RETALIATION– 2019. Synopsis by Working as a laborer on razing the church where he was molested as a boy, middle-aged Malky gets a jolt when the priest who abused him shows up in the local pub — setting Malky off on a mission of revenge.On

7/24/20. Fair to good reviews. On VUDU and other platforms as well.

5) HELMUT NEWTON: THE BAD AND THE BEAUTIFUL– Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “One of the great masters of photography, Helmut Newton made a name for himself exploring the female form, and his cult status continues long after his tragic death in a Los Angeles car crash in 2004. Newton worked around the globe, from Singapore to Australia to Paris to Los Angeles, but Weimar Germany was the visual hallmark of his work.”

7/24/20- Just fair reviews. TRDB.

6) YES, GOD, YES– 2020. Synopsis by Netflix. “High school is hard, but Catholic school is harder. Alice, a strait-laced student devoted to God, discovers more than she bargained for when an innocent AOL chat turns racy.”

7/24/20- Excellent reviews for this dramedy. TRDB.

7) DAVID MAKES MAN– 2020. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “Centering on a 14-year-old prodigy from the projects who is haunted by the death of his friend and relied on by his hardworking mother to find a way out of poverty. He must choose between the streets that raised him or the higher education that may offer him a way out.”

7/24/20- Excellent reviews for this series. TRDB. Streaming on HBO MAX

SKIP THE FOLLOWING-