Flight Risk

 

       This time of the year is reserved for a dumping ground of films that are just barely greenlit. This is one of them but it's a decent enough thrill ride for a mid-winter release.

       Typically Liam Neeson would be starring as the hero in a film like this but in a nice twist, one of my personal favorites, Michelle Dockery (very far from Downton Abby) is U.S. Marshall Harris transporting a key witness in an important trial. She catches up with the witness, Winston, played by Topher Grace in a remote Alaskan town and has to charter a small plane to reach Anchorage.  Mark Wahlberg is the pilot. Once in the air, things start to go wrong and there are some fun action scenes. 

       Almost quietly during the credits, we find out the film was directed by Mel Gibson. I guess the studio felt his name associated with the film might turn away a segment of its potential audience. Say what you will about his politics or religious beliefs, he knows how to direct an action film.

       This is a "check your brain" at the door, "popcorn" movie  and easy to enjoy. As a bonus,  the Alaskan scenery is beautiful on a theater screen.

                

Hard Truths

 

    Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Michele Austin reunite (last seen together in "Secrets & Lies") as sisters in writer/director Mike Leigh's latest comic drama. As, sisters the two are complete opposites. Pansy (Ms. Jean Baptiste) is a depressed, anxiety ridden, angry woman who can barely function and Chantelle (Ms. Austin) is her happier sister who works as a hairdresser and has two adult employed daughters.

     Pansy lives with her sullen husband Curtley (played by David Webber) and her aimless adult son, Moses (played by Tuwaine Barrett). It's an unhappy marriage, an unhappy family and a meager co-existence. Whenever Pansy does manage to leave the house for chores or a doctor's visit, she takes her anger out on everyone around her. Many of these confrontations are humorous at first but ultimately sad as Pansy can't break her cycle.

     The same can be said for the film in general. What's funny at first is really heartbreaking as there is a total lack of communication and a loveless void within Pansy's family. Things begin to change ever so slightly when Chantelle takes Pansy to visit their mother's gravesite and then invites her, Curtly and Moses back to her house to "celebrate" Mother's Day.

      Ms. Jean Baptiste is absolutely wonderful in a very difficult part. Mr. Webber and Mr. Barrett move through the film in an almost catatonic state and it's a credit to their acting to successfully bring a sense of hard reality to their roles. 

     Mr. Leigh has created an intense character study of a woman with many difficult issues. It's not an easy watch but Ms. Jean Baptiste's performance is remarkable, and Mr. Leigh does offer a small glimmer of hope by the end of the film.

Wolf Man

 

      Co-written (with Corbett Tuck) and directed by Leigh Whannell, this is nothing like Lon Chaney Jr's original 1941 film, "The Wolf Man". Mr. Whannell seeks to add emotional depth by focusing on a single family's danger when the father starts to slowly transform into a wolf-like creature.

Blake (played by Christopher Abbott), his wife Charlotte (played by Julia Garner) and their daughter Ginger (played by Matilda Firth) return to the Oregon farm where he lived a a young boy with his father. The film opens with father and son hunting deer but have a brief encounter with something else. It then jumps 30 years later when Blake takes his family from New York to the Oregon farm to pack up his father's things after he learns of his father's death.

Clawed by a creature on the way to the farm, Blake spends the remainder of the movie transforming into the title character. The transformation is deliberately slow to wring out more emotion and anxiety as Blake struggles to maintain his humanity without harming his family.

Don't expect many traditional scares but there is plenty of tension especially as Blake's feral side starts to take over. There is an interesting lighting effect as we see certain scenes through Blake's "animal" night vision. The special effects are rather strange as Blake develops wolflike qualities but never actually looks like a wolf. Ultimately, we've seen films with families terrorized by various horrors before and this is no different.

Mr. Abbott has the daunting task of acting through layers of makeup and does a reasonable job. Always a reliable actress Ms. Garner's character doesn't have much to do here except attempt to save her daughter and Ms. Firth just wants her daddy to "get better".

There is a clever twist in the middle of the film that savvy viewers will probably see coming and it certainly has it's gory moments but I still prefer the 1941 classic.

I'm Still Here

 

        Directed by Walter Salles from a memoir by Marcelo Rubens Paiva, this new biographical drama takes place during the dictatorship regime in Brazil during the 1970's. 

         Rubens and Eunice Paiva have five children and live in a lovely house at the beach in Rio De Janeiro. Rubens is a retired congressman working in a civil engineering job. They are a tight knit family with obvious love for each other. Their house is often filled with friends and family. One day government men come and take Rubens away for "questioning". It is then up to Eunice to learn what happened to her husband while keeping her family together (even while she holds back her own anxiety and anger) in his absence.

        The film stars Fernanda Torres as Eunice and she has already won a well- deserved Golden Globe for her wonderful performance. Selton Mello plays Rubens. Their children are played by Guiherme Silveria as Marcelo (later, Antonio Saboia as an adult), Valentina Herszage as Vera (later, Maria Manoella as an adult), Luiza Kosovski as Eliana (later, Marjorie Estiano as an adult), Barbara Luz as Nalu (later, Gabriela Carneiro as an adult), and Cora Mora as Maria (later, Oliva Torres as an adult). Late in the film, Fernanda Montenegro (Ms. Torres real mother) plays an elderly Eunice, and even while suffering from Alzheimer's, she has one amazing moment of clarity.

       Mr. Salles actually knew the family and had spent time in their house as a young teenager. You can feel the warmth and love in his direction in every shot because of this relationship. His scenic designer faithfully recreates the house based on Mr. Paiva's memoir and Mr. Salles's memory. The house itself, becomes another character, brought to life as a sixth member of the family. The acting is so effortless, it's like watching a documentary rather than a scripted film.

       While the story may be tragic, Ms. Torres's love and resilience keep her family together and even in the face of despair, it is a profoundly moving film. 

The Six Triple Eight

 

     Written and directed by Tyler Perry, this untold, true story of World War Two tells the story of a a very different kind of battle. It is the true story of an all black women battalion, who's job was to sort and make sure, millions of pieces of correspondence were delivered to soldiers fighting all over Europe.

      A film about sorting and delivering mail doesn't sound very interesting but credit Mr. Perry for finding the emotional core of what was an almost impossible task for anyone, let alone a battalion of black women that white, bigoted officers were convinced would fail.

      The film stars Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams and she gives a powerful performance. Her foil is the racist General Halt, played by a sneering Dean Norris. Milauna Jackson plays Captain Noel Campbell. Shanice Shantay plays Johnnie Mae Burton and Sarah Jeffery plays Dolores Washington. Sam Waterston, Oprah Winfrey, and Susan Sarandon all have cameos. The emotional center of the film, however, comes from Ebony Obsidian as Lena Derriecot, who enlists to "fight Hitler". We follow her struggle from bootcamp to the mail assignment and Ms. Obsidian is a young talent whose star is sure to rise after this film.

       It's actually a pretty exciting story as the women race the clock (they are given 90 days to sort millions of letters and parcels) to complete their assignment and given it's true nature, it's an incredibly inspiring story as well.

       This is a Netflix production that is currently streaming.

The Last Showgirl

 

    Written by Kate Gersten, based on her book and directed by Gia Coppola, this new drama is a revelation for it's lead actress, Pamela Anderson. Devoid of any makeup and acting on pure emotion, Ms. Anderson delivers one of the best performances of the year.

     Shelly (Ms. Anderson) has been a showgirl in Las Vegas for over 30 years. She is still going strong at fifty seven but when she learns that her iconic show will shortly be playing it's last performance, her world is turned upside down.

      The film co-stars Jamie Lee Curtis as Annette, Shelly's best friend and a former showgirl, now an aging cocktail waitress in a casino. Dave Bautista plays Eddie, the producer of Shelly's show and a former boyfriend. Brenda Song and Kiernan Shipka are showgirl colleagues. Billie Lourd plays Hannah, Shelly's estranged daughter Jason Schwartzman has a cameo as a nameless director auditioning dancers. Ms. Curtis is clearly having a great time and yet plays her role with an underlying sadness. It's refreshing to see Mr. Bautista in a straight dramatic role where he doesn't shoot or punch anyone.

       While all the acting is excellent, Ms. Anderson is simply amazing. It's unfortunate that the script is not stronger as the material doesn't hold up to the acting. While it's a thin story, it does make a tragically true point about the afterlife of aging showgirls.

       Ms. Coppola brings out the best in Ms. Anderson but her constant use of extreme closeups could have been dialed back a bit. That criticism aside, see it for Pamela Anderson's triumph. 

The Damned

 

       Directed by Thordur Palsson, who also wrote the story, this is a moderately creepy "horror" story perfect for a cold winter's night.

        Eva played by Odessa Young is a young widow running her husband's remote fishing post located on an isolated shoreline of some unnamed Artic or Icelandic region. It's the middle of a freezing winter and Eva and her six fishermen are at least three days away from any town.

        An impossible decision awaits Eva when they all watch a ship sink off shore. With barely enough food to survive themselves and only one small fishing boat, do they try to save any survivors or just let them all drown. The consequences of Eva's decision leads to superstition and madness as the group begin to believe they are being stalked by an evil presence, a "Draugur".

        The film co-stars Joe Cole, Siobhan Finneran, Lewis Gribben, Francis Magee, Rory McCann, Turlough Convery, Micheal Og Lane, and Andrean Sigurgeirsson. Kudos to the cast and crew for filming in what appears to be pretty harsh conditions.

        Mr. Palsson creates an atmosphere of rising tension in an eerie, unhospitable environment. Shadows and dark corners may or may not hide the Draugur. Death seems inevitable foretold by Eva's charwoman, Helga. Without any "hide your eyes" types of scares, the film still elicits goosebumps during moody and violent scenes. 

Nickel Boys

 

      Co-written (with Joslyn Barnes) and directed by RaMell Ross, this is a historical drama set in a fictional reform school in Florida. The "Nickel School" is based on the "Dozier School For Boys", which was a notorious institution where boys were routinely beaten, sexually abused and even killed.

      Mr. Ross has a bold vision for storytelling. He shoots the film with a first person POV (point of view) and in a 1.33:1 aspect ratio. This creates an immersive experience for the viewer but it is can also be jarring and takes some getting used to. You never see the main characters on screen together (even though they may be in the same scene) as the camera switches the POV throughout the film. He also lingers the camera on various imagery which is visually poetic but can also be overwhelming. In addition, there are black and white clips that may or may not be actual footage from the Dozier school interspersed throughout the film. It all makes for a unique way of storytelling that focuses on Elwood and Turner, two boys at the school who become close friends.

      Ethan Herisse plays Elwood and Brandon Wilson plays Turner and they are both excellent. The film also co-stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Hattie, Elwood's grandmother, Hamish Linklater, Fred Hechinger, Jimmie Fails, and Daveed Diggs.

      Mr. Ross also employs some flashforward scenes that may cause some confusion for the viewer at the end of the film unless you have read the book.

      This is an intense drama with many unsettling scenes but it is also an important story that, while fictional, exposes a very real injustice.

The Brutalist

 

           A stunning achievement by director and co-writer (with Mona Fastvold) Barry Corbett, this new drama tells the story of Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian-Jewish immigrant who arrives in New York two years after the end of World War Two. Laszlo is an architect struggling to achieve his American dream until fate introduces him to wealthy Harrison Lee Van Buren, who becomes his patron.

           Adrien Brody plays Toth and he is brilliant. He is the perfect "soulful" actor for the role. Guy Pierce plays Van Buren and it's his best role in years. The eccentric billionaire and the Jewish architect develop an unusual relationship when Van Buren commissions Toth to build a community center in honor of his late mother. The film co-stars  Felicity Jones, Joe Alwyn, Raffey Cassidy, Stacy Martin, Alessandro Nivola, and Emma Laird.

          Mr. Corbett has fashioned an emotional story of the immigrant experience. He also presents the film in an old fashioned Hollywood style. There is an Overture, then Act One, followed by an actual twenty minute intermission and then Act Two followed by an Epilogue. It's also filmed in Vistavison, providing a widescreen effect that blends beautifully with the camerawork.

          The film has stunning cinematography by Lol Crawley and superb art direction by Judy Becker. Combined with a wonderful score by Daniel Blumberg, costumes and sets, the film truly is a work of art.

          An epic story depicting the highs and lows of Laszlo's life (with an underlying theme of antisemitism running throughout), the film is mesmerizing, however, personally I felt the ending was too rushed and the epilogue left some unanswered questions. Even so, it is an intense experience best enjoyed on the large screen of a theater.

           

              

 MY TOP FILM OF 2024-

A Complete Unknown- James Mangold directs an Amazing Timothee Chalamet leads a fantastic cast in recreating the rise of Bob Dylan during the 1960's.

Emilia Perez- Totally original and surprising musical crime drama from Mexico.

Dune Part Two- Spectacular Sci-Fi.  A sequel that build beautifully upon the first film.

Nosferatu- While not scary in the classic sense, it is a work of "horror" art.

The Promised Land- Terrific Danish period film starring Mads Milkensen.

Anora- An electric, star turn by Mikey Madison as a Brooklyn Stripper who gets involved with the son of wealthy Russian Oligarchs. 

Longlegs- The creepiest, most disturbing and unnerving serial killer film in a long time.

Wicked Little Letters- A 1920's period English black comedy with a wonderful cast.

Inside Out 2- Wonderful animation, intelligent and very entertaining.

Wicked Part One- Very entertaining film version of the Broadway show. Works on all levels.

HONORABLE MENTION-

Origin- an incredible and important film based on the book "Caste".

September 5- Intense recreation of the ABC Sports team covering the Israeli massacre at the 1972 Olympics.

Blitz- Incredible survival drama in war torn London during the Blitz. Elliot Heffernan is amazing.

A Real Pain- Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culken play to their strengths in this comedy/drama.

Oddity-an original horror movie that actually scares you. Very well done.

Knox Goes Away-  A terrific performance by Michael Keaton, who also directs, as a criminal dealing with rapidly developing dementia.

BOTTOM FILMS OF 2024-

Less said the better of all of these-

MaXXine

Wolfs

Trap

Drive Away Dolls

Challengers

Joker: Folie a Deux

I.S.S.

Fly Me To The Moon

Borderlands

The Instigators

A Complete Unknown

 

         Co-written and directed by James Mangold (based on the book "Dylan Goes Electric!" by Elijah Wald), this new drama is just sensational (even if you're not that familiar with Bob Dylan). It is magical in it's depiction of a time and place in American history, telling the story of Bob Dylan's rise to fame during the 1960's.

          Timothee Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan and while he may not sing exactly as Dylan, nor look exactly like Dylan, he does a wonderful job of channeling Dylan's essence to the point you believe his portrayal. Beyond Mr. Chalamet, the co-stars are simply terrific as well. Edward Norton plays Pete Seeger without a false note. Elle Fanning plays Sylvie Russo (a renamed version of Susie Rotolo), his girlfriend through most of the early to mid 60's. Monica Barbaro plays Joan Baez, Boyd Holbrook plays Johnny Cash, and Scoot McNairy plays an older, sick and debilitated Woody Guthrie. They are all perfect.

         Also co-starring are Dan Fogler as Albert Grossman, Norbert Leo Butz as Alan Lomax, Will Harrison as Bob Neuwith, Charlie Tahan as Al Cooper, Eli Brown as Mike Bloomfield, Ryan Harris Brown as Mark Spoelstra ad Eriko Hatsune as Toshi Seeger. It is really a sensational cast.

        Mr. Mangold and his team faithful recreate the turbulent '60's and multiple performances at the various village clubs and Newport Folk Festival. While timelines may not be exact and situations and people may have been altered to fit the script, for the most part, the film seems a pretty accurate describing Mr. Dylan's emergence in the folk scene and eventually achieving stardom. It culminates in his decision to go "electric" at Newport alienating many of his fans.

        While super fans and music historians may find fault with any inaccuracies, Mr. Mangold has still managed to capture Bob Dylan's mystique and squeeze a great deal of story into a two hour and twenty minute film, anchored by an electric (no pun intended) performance  by Timothee Chalamet.

Nosferatu

 

     Written and directed by Robert Eggers, this is a remake of the 1922 silent film, and it is a masterful achievement. Mr. Eggers doesn't bother with "jump-scare" tactics but rather creates a world of building dread and unease. 

      The film runs long, two hours and twelve minutes and additional editing would have tightened the story. The atmospheric sense of horror prevails over every aspect of the film. Working with cinematographer, Jarin Blaschke, Mr. Eggers blends the visuals, art direction, sets, music, and of course the acting into a master work of horror.

      The terrific cast includes Bill Skarsgard as Count Orlock/Nosferatu (he's quickly become the go to actor for horror characters), Nicholas Hoult as Thomas Hutter,  Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen Hutter, Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Friedrich Harding, Emma Corrin as Anna Harding, Wilem Dafore as Professor Albin Eberhart, Ralph Ineson as Dr. Wilhelm Sievers and Simon McBurney as Herr Knock. All the characters are doppelgangers for the characters in "Dracula".

      Ms. Depp is exceptional as Ellen, possessed early on by Count Orlock. Mr. Hoult is terrific as the tortured realtor who also falls under the Count's spell. Mr. Dafoe could have easily gone over the top but shows restraint in his character. Mr. Ineson (so good as the father in Mr. Eggers film, The Witch) has a commanding presence as always and Mr. McBurney is perfect as the crazed servant of Count Orlock. And even under quite a bit of makeup, Mr. Skarsgard still makes Nosfertu his own with a powerful performance

       The lighting, use of shadows, depth of color as well as lack of color heighten the already mentioned aspects of the film.  And while you may or may not be actually "scared" during the film, it does add up to the stuff of nightmares that may haunt your dreams for some time to come.

Babygirl

 

       Written and directed by Halina Reijn, this is an erotic thriller about sexual politics and exploring one's unfulfilled sexual urges. Nicole Kidman stars as Romy, a high-powered CEO whose new intern unlocks her submissive desires. Harris Dickinson plays Samuel, the young intern that recognizes something in Romy that he exploits into an unusual affair.

         Antonio Banderas co-stars as Romy's husband of 19 years that is unaware of her desires, believing instead, that they have a very satisfying sex life. Their two teenage daughters are played by Esther McGregor and Vaughan Reilly. Sophie Wilde plays Esme, Romy's assistant, who has her own agenda when she learns of the affair.

         Ms. Kidman, no stranger to daring parts, is at her most uninhibited in a complicated role that requires a great deal of honest acting. Her chemistry with Mr. Dickinson is magnetic and early on, the film is at its most provocative. After a while however, I found myself becoming bored with their games and the direction the film was headed. Samuel's motivation is never clear and even he describes their affair as "kids playing games".

          This film is a little bit "50 Shades of Grey' mixed with "Secretary". TV show and films seem continually convinced that most people in high powered positions secretly want to be dominated in private. Maybe that's true but I'm no therapist. I will say that in this case, Ms. Kidman certainly does, and she gives a truly bold performance.

Mufasa: The Lion King

 

      The original "Lion King" was a wonderful film spawning sequels and a Broadway show. Did the world need a prequel? Probably not but Disney saw a cash grab for the holidays and went for it with a high-profile director, Barry Jenkins, a strong vocal cast and songs by Lin Manuel-Miranda.

       Does it work? I guess so but it's not as good as the original and the story told in flashbacks gets confusing at times. What is amazing is the photorealism animation. The visuals are just incredible.

       Since it's a prequel, screenwriter Jeff Nathanson needed a way to work favorite characters from the first film, Pumbaa and Timon into story. Having Rakiki tell the story of Mufasa to Kiara, Simba's daughter with both Pumbaa and Timon listening as well, was the best way to do it. Although the back and forth storytelling will definitely be confusing to smaller children. It does, however, give Pumbaa and Timon a chance to add all the adult humor to the film with some good one liners and self effacing jokes.

       As for Mufasa's story, he spends a great deal of time underwater for various reasons. He also grows up with Taka, who eventually feels betrayed and ends up as "Scar" from the original film. There is ongoing danger as the lions are stalked by a group of nasty white lions known as "The Outsiders", led by Kiros. It's pretty obvious that at some point Kiros will square off against Mufasa. In many scenes it's actually hard to tell the lions apart. A little girl next to me kept asking, "is that Mufasa?" pointing to various lions.

       The vocal talent includes Aaron Pierre as Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka, John Kani as Rifiki, and Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, the lioness. Other high profile vocals include Seth Rogan as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, Donald Glover as Simba, Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Eshe, Beyonce as Nala, Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, Keith David as Masego and Lennie James as Obasi.

       Lin Manuel-Miranda's songs, lyrically are pleasant enough but musically sound like outtakes from "Hamilton". Nothing comes as close to "The Circle of Life" as memorable.

        The film is being shown in Imax, Imax 3-D, Real 3-D and Digital. Save your money and watch it at home with the kids on Disney +, where it will end up sooner than later.

      

Red One

 

         Just when you thought a new concept for a holiday movie couldn't be found, we have this new action packed story of a kidnapped Santa (aka "Red One").

         One of its main themes is adults finding their inner kid again and if you are an adult, you will find that inner kid again watching this silly but fun adventure. For small kids, there are some violent moments (although no blood is spilled, just snow), a bit of cursing and a "scary" witch towards the end but otherwise, it's a high concept romp with a wisecracking Chris Evans and a very serious Dwayne Johnson.

          J.K. Simmons plays a trim and frankly, buff Santa. Lucy Liu plays the Director of North Pole Operations, Bonnie Hunt is Mrs. Claus, and Kiernan Shipka plays Gryla, The Christmas Witch and the main villain. Mr. Johnson is Head Of Security and takes his job very seriously although his character is also very disillusioned about the holidays and ready to retire. Mr. Evans is Jack O'Malley, a cynical tracker who sets things in motion by revealing Santa's whereabouts to Gryla but then is enlisted to help find him. 

         The film also co-stars Kristofer Hivju (under lots of makeup ) as Krampus, Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Olivia, Jack's Ex, Wesley Kimmel as Dylan, Jack's son and Nick Kroll in a cameo.

         The CGI is spotty, great at times and poor at other times. The action sequences are fun and the cast is committed to making it work. In the end, attitudes are adjusted and of course Christmas is saved.

         While not everything makes perfect sense (fighting Snowmen in Aruba), it's still an entertaining holiday film for the right audience. And that might also be it's biggest problem. It's a little too smart for little kids and a bit too goofy for adults but pre-and young teens will definitely enjoy it and as I mentioned, adults who just want a little holiday cheer for their inner child will find it satisfying.

          The film is in theaters and also now available on a major streaming service.

September 5

 

     Co-written and directed by Tim Fehlbaum, this new drama is based on the real life massacre of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Olympics in Munich Germany. What's different about this film it that it is told from the perspective of the ABC Sports crew covering the ordeal as it's happening in real time.

     Peter Sarsgaard stars as Roone Arledge but it is John Magaro who really shines as Geoffrey Mason, who is left in charge of the control room by Arledge. Ben Chaplin co-stars as Marvin Bader, Mr. Mason's direct boss and they, along with the other technicians, reporters and cameramen faithfully recreate the controlled chaos of reporting the horrible events happening around them.

    The film also co-stars Leonie Benesch as Marianne Gebhardt, a German translator pressed into more than she bargained for, since she's the only staff member who speaks fluent English and German. Benjamin Walker does a good impression of Peter Jennings, the news reporter on the scene and actual footage of Jim McKay, the ABC Sports Olympic anchor, is also used strategically throughout the film.

    To realistically recreate the TV control room, all analog equipment was used without the use of CGI. The editing by Hansjorg Weibrich and music by Lorenz Dangel work together to keep the tension high and nothing is wasted in the ninety five minute runtime.

    The film raises many moral and ethical questions about reporting tragic events live as this was really the first of it's kind, watched by 900 million people around the world in real time. Questions that still exist today.

    As you watch the film, even if you remember the outcome,  you will still feel the suspense and tension, almost hoping for a different result. It's a sad reality that tragedies like this continue today.

    

Carry-On

 

       In the tradition of "Die Hard", but nowhere near that standard, comes this holiday action thriller starring Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman.

       Mr. Egerton is Ethan, a TSA agent who is blackmailed into letting a lethal nerve gas pass through airport security on Christmas eve. Mr. Bateman plays against type and is the villain behind the blackmail. With a plot that throws logic out the window, the two adversaries do manage to keep things interesting and fairly exciting, despite some ridiculous dialog.

        The film co-stars  Sofia Carson as Ethan's pregnant girlfriend put in harm's way (of course), Danielle Deadwyler as Detective Cole who has a very impressive fight scene, Theo Rossi as Mr. Bateman's colleague who knows, incredibly, just where to park a van just to point a rifle, Dean Norris as the unsuspecting TSA supervisor, and Curtis Cook in what amounts to a cameo as an airport security cop.

        Despite all the illogical plot points, the film creates a fair amount of tension as we watch Ethan race against time to stop the deadly plot. 

        Wisely not released in theaters, the film is available exclusively on a major streaming service.

Kraven The Hunter

 

      Poor Sony Pictures. Even with a collaboration with Marvel, they just can't pull off a successful comic adaptation (ok, they've had minor success with Venom). This new super "anti-hero" film has not one but three Spider-Man villains but without Spider-Man, it just doesn't work. Yes, there is a clever in-joke regarding spiders but even that doesn't help.

      Aaron Taylor-Johnson stars as Kraven and he is just not buff enough and too good looking to play this Spider-Man villain. It's almost sad to see him running around on all fours, using his "animal instincts" to hunt his prey. The film has a notable list of co-stars that will unfortunately have to be associated with this film. Russell Crowe plays Kraven's father, who meets his demise by a Grizzley bear and I'm not quite sure who was bigger, Mr. Crow or the bear. Ariana DeBose has a ridiculously written role and disappears completely in the last act. Fred Hechinger plays Kraven's brother (and in a strange universe, is in "Gladiator II" as one of the nasty emperors which is connected to the original "Gladiator" starring Russell Crowe, who now plays his father). His outcome in this film is important but not really explained well. Alessandro Nivola plays "The Rhino" another Spider-Man villain who shouldn't be fighting Kraven but rather working with him, and Christopher Abbott plays "The Foreigner", a rather strange villain.

      The CGI is sloppy but there are a few good action sequences, not quite enough to save the film though. The end sets up a potential sequel but I think Sony Pictures has had enough of these secondary characters.

       

The Outrun

 

        Saoirse Ronan stars in this highly moving drama about one woman's battle with addiction. The script is based on the memoir by Amy Liptrot, who also co-wrote the screenplay.

        Ms. Ronan plays Rona, an alcoholic living in London, who decides to return to her childhood home on the Orkney Islands (north of Scotland) to try to get sober. The story is told in a non-linear fashion and jumps around in time. It takes a minute to adjust to the time lines but soon becomes easy to follow,

        Rona's parents are separated and live on different parts of the island. She spends time with both but for most of the film, she lives in isolation in a small shack on a tiny part of the north island. She walks the beach, swims in the frigid water, listens to her favorite music and contemplates her life. She does interact with some of the local folk and takes a solitary job studying an elusive native bird. As usual, Ms. Ronan is wonderful in a heartbreaking and raw portrait of addiction.

       The cinematography is fabulous. Having actually been to the Orkney Islands, I can honestly say Yunus Roy Imer's camera captures the raw beauty of the land and the surrounding sea. It can be a very harsh landscape, especially in winter and Ms. Ronan braves the weather admirably. The very last scene in the film is so perfect.

       The film is in limited theatrical release and currently on demand.

Emilia Perez

 

        Written and directed by Jacques Audiard, this is one of the most original films you will ever see. It is a Spanish language, musical, crime story with a transgender plotline and it's as fascinating as it's entertaining.

         When a wealthy Mexican Cartel boss decides to transition, he hires a lawyer to facilitate the process. Years later, with a new identity and purpose, Emilia sets out to help victims of cartel violence but some things can't remain in the past.

         The film stars Karla Sofia Gascon as Juan "Manitas" DeMonte/Emilia Perez, Zoe Saldana as Rita Mora Castro, Emilia's lawyer, and Selena Gomez as Jessi, the wife of Manitas and mother of his children. The film also co-stars Adriana Paz, Edgar Ramirez and Mark Ivanir. The three leads are just wonderful. Ms. Saldana and Ms. Gomez have never been better and Karla Sofia Gascon is a revelation.

         Mr. Audiard brilliantly stages many unusual musical dance numbers throughout the film, including a standout number by Zoe Saldana performed at a gala. Characters break into song when you least expect it and yet it all works filling out the story in a very original way.

         Ultimately a story of love, acceptance, family, and high drama, "Emilia Perez" will move you in unexpected ways.

         The film is in a limited theatrical run and currently streaming.

The Order

 

       Based on a true story, this is a somber but gripping drama about the FBI's efforts to stop a white supremacist terrorist group known as "The Order". 

        The year is 1983 and FBI agent Terry Husk (played by a stoic Jude Law) is investigating a rash of bank robberies in the Pacific Northwest. He believes the robberies are being committed by a radical group building a war chest rather than ordinary criminals. Nicholas Hoult is the charismatic leader of "The Order", a radical splinter group from Aryan Nation. The two play a dangerous game of cat and mouse. 

       Co-starring are Tye Sheridan as a local deputy assigned to the manhunt and Jurnee Smollett as a no nonsense FBI agent. Marc Maron also has a small part as radio host Alan Berg.

       This is a tense story made all the more unsettling as you watch, realizing these groups are still out there sowing the seeds of hate across America. One can only hope as our government changes hands that law enforcement will continue to be vigilant and prevent the potential for greater violence.

Wicked (Part 1)

 

   

         All the pre-movie hype and massive over the top marketing that had turned me off initially, faded away once the film started. Building upon the success of the wonderful Broadway show, the film adds layers to the characters and story that make it that much more entertaining.

          I was also initially disappointed that the film was to be split in two but after seeing it, it makes sense as it ends on such a high note with so much story left to tell, one film could not do it justice.  Broadway could only do so much, incredible as it is, but the film (to borrow a line) is unlimited with it's possibilities.

          Director Jon M. Chu and his team have created something special. The singing, the dancing, set design, costumes and cinematography by Alice Brooks all combine to create a world of wonderful magic.

         As for the cast, it is literally perfection. Cynthia Erivo brings such depth and emotion to Elphaba. She continues to show her diversity as a fine actress and even handles the memorable songs with ease. We already know Ariana Grande-Butera is a terrific singer but here she shows great comic timing and charm as Galinda (Glinda). The two women have wonderful chemistry and together literally make magic happen.

          The film co-stars Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero and he couldn't be more perfect. Ethan Slater makes a fine Boq Woodsman. Jeff Goldblum is perfection as "The Wizard". Michele Yeoh brings her great inner strength to Madam Morrible. Marissa Bode brings a sparkle of personality to Nessrose. Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James are Galinda's catty friends. And Peter Dinklage adds his unmistakable voice to Dr. Dillamond, the goat professor. 

            Is it excessive at two hours and forty minutes?  Of course, and scenes could have been trimmed or cut but ultimately it all works as a sensational entertainment. Those that know the story will be aware that "Act Two" will have darker elements but that won't deter our anticipation. It's just a shame we have to wait a full year to return to Oz.

Gladiator II

 

      Not many directors working today can pull off a crowd pleasing spectacle such as this. Ridley Scott is one of those directors (Cecille B. DeMille would be proud). While it's been 24 years since it's predecessor, only 18 years have passed in this film as Mr. Scott returns us to the glory and horror of the arena. "Are we entertained?" Of course we are.

       The film stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Denzel Washington. Ms. Nielsen reprises her role from the original film and Mr. Mescal is the title gladiator. Mr. Pascal is a Roman general and Mr. Quinn and Mr. Hechinger are brothers who rule Rome as duo Emperors. Co-starring are Lior Raz, a gladiator trainer and Derek Jacobi returning as Senator Gracchus.  Mr. Mescal makes a fine lead in a star making role but it is Mr. Washington who nearly steals the film as the gladiator master who seeks ultimate power.. He is clearly having fun as the villain, as you watch him plot and angle his way into the emperors court. Mr. Washington is an actor on another level, adding great depth to what easily could have been just a cartoon villain (just watch his eyes as he calculates his next move).

       The screenplay by David Scarpa (with a story by Mr. Scarpa and Peter Craig) cleverly integrates the new story with the original film (shown in small flashbacks) and continues in fluid continuity. Mr. Scott raises the ante with bigger and more elaborate fights in the Colosseum arena. The first skirmish takes place with men against killer baboons before we even get to Rome. Obvious CGI animals, it sets the scene for what is to follow. From baboons, we get an animatronic/CGI rhinoceros and then Mr. Scott literally jumps the shark, filling the Colosseum arena with water and CGI sharks. At this point he has cut the cord of believability but redeems himself with the man to man fight scenes. To Mr. Scott's credit, even though he may have lost some credibility in the story with CGI sharks,  you find yourself still involved and entertained.

       Any fan of the original film will absolutely enjoy this one and even if you haven't seen the first one, there is just enough backstory to lead you through this sequel.

Blitz

 

          Steve McQueen wrote, directed and produced this new wartime drama starring Saoirse Ronan and Elliot Heffernan. The film takes place in London during the German "Blitzkrieg" or "Blitz" for short. It was a horrible nightmare for the British as the German air force dropped thousands of bombs, practically leveling the city and killing thousands.

         Ms. Ronan stars as Rita, a single mother who, like hundreds of other parents, sends her child on a train out of the city for his protection. Defiantly, nine year old George, played by Elliot Heffernan, in his first role,  leaves the train to find his way back to the city and his mother.

          Young Mr. Heffernan is simply amazing, wise beyond his years and effortlessly tackling a complicated and important role. He easily steals the movie. Ms. Ronan shows once again, why she is such a wonderful actress, who even gets to sing during the film. Co-starring as her father, is the legendary Paul Weller and in smaller roles, Stephen Graham, Benjamin Clementine, and Harris Dickinson.

          Mr. McQueen and his team realistically recreate a bombed out London and put the viewer squarely in the action. His visuals are amazing. The technique he uses to show the devastation before and after each bombing is unique and incredibly well done. In addition, credit the wonderful cinematography by Yorick Le Saux for imagery that will stick in your mind, long after the film ends.  

          The sound design, art direction and music by Hans Zimmer all combine to bring George's odyssey to vivid life as he struggles to find his way home juxtaposed with Rita's story of survival during a devastating time. I predict multiple Academy Award nominations.

           The film is in limited theatrical release and now available on a major streaming service.

Heretic

 

      Written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, this is less of a horror film and more of a psychological thriller.

       When two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East) knock on the wrong door, they become locked in a religious battle of cat and mouse with the ultimate heretic, Mr. Reed, played wonderfully against type by Hugh Grant.

       Mr. Grant is charming, yet gonzo in his theological ideas. With just ever so slight facial movement, he can convey twisted menace at any given moment while playing the friendly host to the two young women. He challenges their beliefs and goes on and on about the one true religion, while giving them history lessons about various organized religion. He tells them they are free to leave but offers little in the way of freedom, except through a choice of doors marked "Belief" and "Disbelief".

        The film is never really scary but does build a reasonable amount of suspense and creepiness as it goes on. Introducing a "prophet" later in the film, who Mr. Reed tells the two women can be resurrected, is the closest the film comes to a "horror" moment. 

       All the religious posturing grows weary as the film goes on and even the craziness of the final act, can't really save the film from the weight of Mr. Reed's heresy. What saves the film though, is the terrific performance of Mr. Grant, who really seems to be enjoying himself as the film's villain.

Anora

 

       Written and directed by Sean Baker, this new comedy/drama tells the story of "Anora", a stripper who ends up married to  Vanya, the hard partying son of a Russian oligarch. 

      While on a "paid" week with Vanya, the two jet off to Las Vegas with friends and end up impulsively getting married. Of course this does not sit well with his parents back in Russia, who send a crew to break up the marriage.

       There is a centerpiece scene when the three men break into Vanya's mansion that is at once very funny and yet violent as well. The three just don't know how to contain the force of nature that is "Anora".

     The film is fueled by the lightning bolt of a performance by Mikey Madison as "Anora". She is electric from start to finish in a raw, comedic, fierce and touching performance. The film co-stars Mark Eydelshteyen as Vanya, Karren Karagulian as Toros, Yura Borisov as Igor, and Vache Tovmasyan as Garnick.

     Mr. Baker shot the film authentically in Brooklyn New York. Vanya's mansion is in Mill Basin and many of the other scenes take place in Coney Island and Brighton Beach, home to Brooklyn's largest Russian community.

          It's a wild ride and a star is born.

          

A Real Pain

 

     Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin star in this new comedy drama, written and directed by Mr. Eisenberg. The two play mismatched cousins traveling to Poland on a tour group, with the intention to eventually visit the ancestral home of their grandmother.

      It is an endearing story filled with moments of great warmth,  humor and yes, pain as well. Mr. Culkin steals just about every scene while Mr. Eisenberg plays the straight man, the anchor of the story. As written, both roles are not much of a stretch for either actor, but they do play to their strengths.

      The film co-stars Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey, Kurt Egyiawan, Liza Sadovy, and Daniel Oreskes as the other members of their tour group. A group I may add, with quite a lot of patience for the two cousins.

      During it's 90 minute run time, we actually get to see quite a bit of Poland, including a very somber tour of the Majdanek concentration camp.

       Playing in theaters now, it's worth the time or just wait for it to stream, which these days doesn't take very long.

Will & Harper

 

       A documentary by Josh Greenbaum, the film follows comedian Will Ferrell and his friend of many years, Harper Steele, on an unusual road trip across America.

       The two met many years ago on the set of Saturday Night Live and became close friends. Earlier in her life, Ms. Steele had enjoyed many road trips across the country in her former life as a man. Ms. Steele reached out to Mr. Ferrell and other during the pandemic of her decision to go through gender transition.

       After learning of this life altering decision, Mr. Ferrell then suggests another road trip from New York to Los Angeles to spend time with his friend and better understand her decision. They also wonder what it will be like to revisit old stops and see them in a new light.

       The film is brave, honest, heartwarming and yes, filled with occasional humor. There is at times, a terrible sadness as well. Ultimately, it's about education, acceptance and an enduring friendship. You see a famous comedian in an entirely new light.

        It is only available on a major streaming service.

His Three Daughters

 

       Written and directed by Azazel Jacobs, this is a weighty drama about family, life and death, and love. It's the story of three adult sisters who reunite at their family apartment when their father's illness take a turn for the worse and he goes into hospice care.

        The three sisters are played by Carrie Coon, as Katie, Natasha Lyonne, as Rachel and Elizabeth Olsen, as Christina. The film is a marvelous showcase for their acting but is otherwise fairly depressing. Co-starring are Rudy Galvan, Jose Febus, Jasmine Bracey, Jovan Adepo and Jay O. Sanders as the dad. For most of the film, Mr. Sanders is off screen but has a terrific monologue near the end. 

         The action takes place almost exclusively in the apartment with just a few scenes in the building courtyard. It is a claustrophobic environment that the three estranged sisters must share and come to grips with their various issues.

         Mr. Jacobs relies on the strength of his leads to to carry the film and they are all terrific but the shadow of death hangs over the entire production and at times makes it very difficult to watch.

         Not in theaters but currently available on a major streaming service.

Conclave

 

     While a fictional drama about choosing a new Papal leader after the death of the last Pope, the Conclave portrayed in the film seems realistically accurate and becomes quite tense as the various Cardinals continue to vote until a consensus is reached.

      Ralph Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, the Cardinal that leads the Conclave, which becomes a political potboiler as various nominees jockey for position and secrets are revealed. Also starring is Stanley Tucci as Cardinal Bellini, a progressive Cardinal who says he is not interested in the position but obvious is. John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, Lucian Msamati, Carlos Diehz, and Merab Nindze all play other Cardinals. Brian F. O'Byrne plays the assistant to Cardinal Lawrence and Isabella Rossellini plays Sister Agnes, the Cardinal's head caterer and housekeeper.

      The film is directed by Edward Berger, who's camera seems to take the audience directly into the inner circles of the Vatican. The score, by Volker Bertelmann, plays an important part in raising the tension and keeping it high. The cinematography, by Stephanie Fontaine, is outstanding especially in certain scenes staged by Mr. Berger.

      The film is a serious drama with a great cast and obvious Oscar aspirations, marred only by a controversial final twist that is so incredible, it devalues everything that has come before it. 

Venom: The Last Dance

 

          Tom Hardy returns for a third outing as Eddie Brock/Venom in what is being called "The Last Dance", the conclusion to the Venom story line. The film was written and directed by Kelly Marcel, heading up a tremendous team of animators and CGI artists.

           Read no further if you haven't seen the other two films or have no interest in this Marvel anti-hero. If you are indeed familiar with the character and a fan, you will thoroughly enjoy yourself. It is a fun filled ride loaded with action packed mayhem and some great dialog between Eddie and Venom, the alien symbiote that shares his body.

           The film co-stars Juno Temple, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu, Clark Backo and Stephen Graham. Additionally, Christo Fernandez returns as the bartender from "Spider-Man: No Way Home". We also get a quick glimpse of Andy Serkis as "Knull" during a mid-credit scene.

           The special effects are fun and Mr. Hardy seems to really enjoy playing Eddie Brock. While the film is being called the conclusion to the trilogy, anyone familiar with the Marvel Universe knows anything can happen. Pay close attention to the final post credit scene.

Smile 2

 

       The first film had a original take on an evil entity possessing people. It became a hit and now we have the sequel. Writer and director Parker Finn keeps things fresh with a new cast and a new setting but that pesky entity is still keeping victims smiling and dying.

       Naomi Scott stars as Skye Riley and she is simply terrific. She is in almost every scene playing a pop star who has inadvertently inherited the evil spirit from the first film. She does her own singing and dancing in certain scenes and in others registers paranoia, fear, and absolute terror as the spirit slowly consumes her. It is a star making performance. Co-starring with Ms. Scott are Rosemary DeWitt, Kyle Gallner, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley and Peter Jacobson. 

      Mr. Finn expertly turns up the suspense and scares as the story builds. He is a master of the "jump scare" and the film contains many of them. It's a standard horror technique but he still manages to make it surprising and keeps the audience constantly off balance.

       Everything about this sequel is ramped up from the original. It starts days after the first film ended, takes off like a shot and works brilliantly. Looking forward to the inevitable "Smile 3". 

Joker: Folie a Deux

 

       Less a sequel and more like a continuation, this film picks up directly after the events of the first film. It starts with a terrific animated sequence that soon dissolves to the prison where Arthur Fleck is awaiting a psychiatric evaluation before he can stand trail for multiple murders. The film rotates between the prison and the courtroom, interspersed with musical numbers in Arthur's delusional imagination.

        The film, of course, stars Joaquin Phoenix returning as Arthur Fleck. In inspired casting, Lady Gaga plays Harleen (Lee) Quinzel, Artur's love interest. The two have great chemistry and their scenes together are electric (even if Mr. Phoenix is not the best singer). Mr. Phoenix's acting, however, is exceptional. He is amazing a s fleck. It's a shame the script doesn't do him justice.

         Co-written and directed by Todd Phillips, This is an unnecessary film that has no real plot and blends drama and music in a ridiculous way. It ultimately goes nowhere and if not for the performances of it's two stars, it's not worth your time (wait for streaming if you must see it). 

        The film co-stars Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Zazie Beetz, Steve Coogan, Harry Lawtey, and Bill Smitrovich.

         As with the first film, while taking place in Gotham City, it has no Batman or Commissioner Gordon. It has a Joker, Harley Quinn, and even a Harvey Dent but otherwise exists outside of the usual DC universe. It's a strange mix that fails to capture the magic of the first film.

      

        

Saturday Night

 

    Co-written and directed by Jason Reitman (who interviewed surviving cast and crew members), this is a nostalgic look at recreating the premiere episode of Saturday Night Live, fifty years ago.

     Mr. Reitman assembles a talented group of actors, who, while not perfect replicas of the original cast, certainly capture their essence. The film stars Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Ella Hunt as Gilda Radner, Dylan O'Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Emily Fairn as Lorraine Newman, Matt Wood as John Belushi, Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris, Kim Matula as Jane Curtin and Tommy Dewey as Michael O'Donoghue.

      Also starring as Lorne Michaels is Gabriel LaBelle and Rachel Sennotti as Rosie Shuster.  In addition, the film features Finn Wolfhard, Nicholas Braun (as Andy Kaufman and Jim Henson), Cooper Hoffman, Matthew Rhys, Willem Dafoe, Jon Batiste and J.K. Simmons.

      It's a great cast and Mr. Reitman captures the insanity of what it must have been like putting the first episode together when the concept was new and nobody knew what to expect. While we may never know exactly what really happened that night, one can only imagine it's probably close to the truth.

Terrifier 3

 

     If you haven't seen the first two films in this series and have no interest in violent horror, stop reading now. However, if you're in the mood for a gory, violent and fun, yes fun....Terrifier 3 is for you. But you really should start with the first film and follow the misadventures of psycho clown killer, Art the clown.

     Written and directed by Damien Leone, (Dario Argento would be proud) while incredibly violent and drenched in blood, there is element of fun, along with committed performances from David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera and Samantha Scaffidi. Mr. Thornton plays the silent clown as a maniacal Charlie Chaplin eliciting laughs along with shrieks and groans. Ms. LaVera reprises her role as the heroine, Sienna Shaw and is quickly earning her place as a genuine scream queen. Ms. Scaffidi reprises her role as  the heroine turned villainess, Victoria Heyes, who just about steals the spotlight from Art.

      The film co-stars Elliott Fullam, Antonella Rose and in smaller roles, Clint Howard, Daniel Roebuck, Jason Patric, and Tom Savini.

       Mr. Leone has a great knack for giving fans of this genre exactly what they want. His production team provides excellent, and sometimes, deliberately cheesy special effects. It's obvious that Mr. Leone's budget grows with each subsequent film. I can't wait to see what he does with the inevitable Terrifier 4.

       

The Apprentice

 

        This new biographical drama examines the life of Donald Trump in the 1970's and 80's as he was growing his real estate empire. More than that however, it is a modern day "Frankenstein" story as the young Donald meets nefarious lawyer, Roy Cohen who mentors Donald into the man we know today. Make no mistake, this is a "horror" story in the very worst way.

         Sebastian Stan stars as Donald Trump and he is fantastic. He seamlessly captures every nuance of the man, his expressions, vocal patterns and movements. It is absolutely hysterical watching him constantly fixing his hair. Jeremy Strong completely inhabits the look and spirit of Roy Cohen, one of the most vile individuals to ever walk the earth. He teaches young Donald his three rules to live by which Donald then takes ownership of in later years.

        The other principal actors are Martin Donovan as Fred Trump Sr. and Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump. Charlie Carrick co-stars as Fred Trump Jr. and Catherine McNally is Mary Anne Trump.

         The film follows Donald as he negotiates purchasing the abandoned Commodore Hotel, his Atlantic City casinos, Trump Plaza and more. It also charts how he met, courted, and eventually lost interest in Ivana Trump. Under Mr. Cohen's influence, he develops his rule book, "The Art of the Deal".

          Donald Trump's lawyers tried to have this film banned but it finally found a distributor and they are now calling it "election interference" due to it's content and realistic portrait of Mr. Trump. It's actually a fascinating story with brilliant performances from both Mr. Strong and Mr. Stan.

           

Megalopolis

 

        Written, produced and directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this is his greatest cinematic achievement since "The Godfather"...nah, not really. Instead, it is an ambitious, overstuffed, incoherent at times, mess of a movie. And yet, under all that mess, shards of Mr. Coppola's genius still shine through. 

         The film stars Adam Driver (taking everything very seriously), Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel, Aubrey Plaza ( having fun going way over the top), Shia LaBeouf (chewing all the scenery in his scenes), Jon Voight, Laurence Fishburne, Talia Shire, Jason Schwartzman, and Kathryn Hunter (criminally underused). Also, in much smaller and practically wasted roles, Chloe Fineman, James Remar, D.B. Sweeney, Grace VanderWaal, Balthazar Getty, and Dustin Hoffman (who hasn't acted in years and came back for this?).

         Mr. Coppola’s vision is to merge ancient Rome with a futuristic New York and set up a confrontation between two powerful men, the visionary architect, played by Mr. Driver (with a large nod to Robert Moses) and Mr. Esposito, as the Mayor of "New Rome".  With that idea as his base, characters move through the film with dialog that ranges from non-sensical to Shakespearean and laughable to poetic. Themes are introduced and then cast aside. At times, the leads don't even seem to know what they are doing.

         While the CGI work is inconsistent, I will praise the art direction and design. Watching the film is like wandering through a moving art exhibition without a cohesive theme. There are fleeting moments of Mr. Coppola's brilliance in the rather insane look of the film and in some of the dialog but overall, the film is a slog to get through running over two hours that seem more like six gonzo hours.

           Apparently Mr. Coppola has been nurturing the idea of this film since 1977. Give the man credit for bringing his opus to fruition, and spending his own money to do it, but this is far from his greatest achievement. It is a great example of the old adage, "art is in the eye of the beholder".

WOLFS

 

       Shame on Apple using George Clooney and Brad Pitt as poster boys to sell subscriptions. This new action, crime, drama is light as air and as thin as finely sliced ham. The plot is a total cliche and makes very little sense, even when the two stars quickly explain it late in the film, when they both realize what they've been doing for nearly the past two hours.

         It begins with an interesting premise, when Amy Ryan calls for the services of a "cleaner", a professional fixer of sorts who "cleans" up illegal scenarios to protect certain types of people. Two competing "cleaners, Mr. Clooney and Mr. Pitt, show up to dispose of a body and things take off from there.

          Besides Ms. Ryan (who disappears after the initial scene), the film co-stars Austin Abrams, Zlatko Buric, and in a surreal cameo, Richard Kind as a Frank Sinatra fanatic.

          If you are satisfied watching two movie stars going through the paces, without much thought of character or plot development, this is the perfect film for you. Enjoy it as the two make fun of themselves with aging jokes such as needing glasses, complaining about back pain, and needing aspirin.

          There is far better content (with stars) to watch on Apple, then this fluff. These wolfs don't bite. They don't even have teeth.