AKA DOC POMUS- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “While childhood polio robbed Doc Pomus of the use of his legs, it couldn’t constrain his spirit — or his songwriting instincts — as documented here. Home movies and interviews with rock luminaries paint a picture of the singer-turned-songsmith.”
10/4/13- Very good reviews from all critics and from today’s NY Times also. TRDB.
Add comment October 5th, 2013
ENZO AVITABILE MUSIC LIFE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “Jonathan Demme helms this musical documentary that shines a light on the eclectic sounds of songwriter-musician Enzo Avitabile. The film blends performance footage with interviews that reveal Avitabile’s independent spirit.”
10/18/13- Good professional reviews in general and an OK one in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
Add comment September 29th, 2013
BLOOD BROTHER- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “After traveling to India, American tourist Rocky Braat wound up finding new purpose in life helping children with HIV and AIDS. This inspiring film documents the challenges he faces and the love he finds as he creates a meaningful life.”
9/29/13- Very good reviews. TRDB.
10/18/13- An excellent review for this documentary in today’s NY Times. TRDB.
Add comment September 29th, 2013
AMERICAN PROMISE- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “A detailed examination of race, education and opportunity in America, this documentary follows two African American boys — and their parents — for 12 years, starting as they enter kindergarten at a prestigious private school.”
10/18/13- Reviews for this film are highly positive but in today’s NY Times the reviewer felt that the film was exploitive and did not know what to make of it. TRDB.
Add comment September 29th, 2013
TWO: THE STORY OF ROMAN & NYRO- 2013. Synopsis by IMDB. “Combining over twelve years of footage and narrated by their twin sons, TWO: The Story of Roman & Nyro, follows legendary songwriter Desmond Child and his lifelong partner’s loving journey to create their new modern family.”
9/29/13- No reviews as yet. TRDB.
Add comment September 29th, 2013
SPINNING PLATES- 2013. Synopsis by IMDB. “Spinning Plates is a documentary about three extraordinary restaurants and the incredible people who make them what they are. A cutting-edge restaurant named the seventh-best in the world whose chef must battle a life-threatening obstacle to pursue his passion. A 150-year-old family restaurant still standing only because of the unbreakable bond with its community. A fledgling Mexican restaurant whose owners are risking everything just to survive and provide for their young daughter. Their unforgettable stories of family, legacy, passion and survival come together to reveal how meaningful food can be, and the power it has to connect us to one another.”
10/25/13- Fairly good reviews in general although the NY Times didn’t care for it. TRDB.
Add comment September 28th, 2013
WHEN I WALK- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “When 25-year-old director Jason DaSilva was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2006, he decided to document his struggles. In this wise and warm film, DaSilva explores the similarities we share as we each battle to overcome our individual problems.”
10/25/13- The NY Times liked this documentary and so did most critics. TRDB.
12/24/14- I liked this documentary very much and despite the topic the movie managed to balance the sadness and the hope for the future. TRDB.
Add comment September 28th, 2013
WE CAME HOME- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “We Came Home tells the story of Afghanistan through Afghan American artist, Ariana Delawari. Born into a suburban Los Angeles home, the same year the Soviets invaded Afghanistan, Ariana’s life unfolds parallel to the ever-changing events of her father’s homeland. Her parents name her after the ancient name of Afghanistan. Her home is filled with refugee relatives, parties with live Afghan music, and her father’s fierce dedication to his homeland.”
9/27/13- I’ve seen just 2 professional reviews and they were both good. Today’s NY Times was one of them. TRDB.
Add comment September 27th, 2013
THE TIME IS … NOW- 2013. Synopsis by Netflix. “This documentary profiles ordinary people who have endured tragedy and examines how they have evolved from victims into survivors, with psychologists and spiritual leaders offering commentary on the possibility of hope in troubled times.”
9/27/13- I’ve seen just 2 professional reviews and they were both poor. One was in today’s NY Times. Audiences have liked it very much. TRDB.
Add comment September 27th, 2013
THE PAW PROJECT- 2013. Synopsis by Rotten Tomatoes. “The Paw Project documentary is an inspiring David and Goliath story of a grassroots movement to protect felines, both large and small, from the cruelty of declawing and how the movement has prevailed, despite the efforts of well-funded professional veterinary associations.”
9/27/13- Good reviews all around and in today’s NY Times as well. TRDB.
Add comment September 27th, 2013