Scream 7

 

       Neve Campbell, once again returns as Sidney Prescott- Evans, (even apologizing, in character, for not appearing in Scream 6) to be threatened by the "Ghostface" killer.

        Co-written (along with Guy Busick) and directed by Kevin Williamson, the emphasis this time is not just on Sidney but her teenage daughter Tatum.  The script returns to the form of the earlier films, making fun of itself, providing various gory kills, and keeping the audience guessing as to the identity of  "Ghostface". 

         Besides Ms. Campbell, the film stars Isabel May as Tatum, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Anna Camp, Jimmy Tatro, McKenna Grace, Asa Germann, Tim Simons, Joel McHale, Ethan Embry and Mark Conuelos. There is a nostalgia factor as well, with many of the original cast returning in various ways, including Courtney Cox, Matthew Lillard, Laurie Metcalf, Scott Foley, and David Arquette.

          There is talk of an eighth film but frankly, this franchise is running out of steam and for the most part, this installment is pretty boring. It's more of a yawn than a scream.

           

Sirat

 

             Nothing can prepare you for the impact of this Academy Award nominated ( best Foreign Language) film. Directed by Oliver Laxe (who also co-wrote the screenplay with Santiago Filloi), the film will leave you with a shock to the senses.

              Luis (Sergi Lopez), along with his young son Esteban (Bruno Nunez Arjona), is a father searching for his adult daughter during a Rave in the Moroccan desert. When he doesn't find her, he takes up with a small group of nomadic "Ravers" hoping she might turn up at the next Rave.

              The group traveling in multiple vehicles consists of Richard Bellamy as Bigui, Steafania Gadda as Stef, Joshua Liam Henderson as Josh, Tonin Janvier as Tonin, and Jade Oukid as Jade. Aside from Mr. Lopez and Mr. Arjona, the other main characters are played by non-professional actors who are all terrific and unique.

              When the opening Rave is interrupted by the military, the group leaves to cross the harsh landscape of the Moroccan desert looking for the next Rave and hopefully Luis's daughter. The film follows them on their journey leading to an unexpected and shocking sequence of events.

                The film opens with a quote "The Sirat Bridge lies between Heaven and Hell. The path is as narrow as a hair and as sharp as a sword". This quote literally prepares you for what comes next. As a spiritual metaphor open to interpretation the film will stay with you for some time.

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert

 

        Lord oh mighty, I feel my temperature rising...

        Along with the great editing by Jonathan Redmond, director Baz Luhrmann presents an amazing film starring the one and only Elvis Presley. It's a hybrid of documentary and concert film that will leaving breathless.

        Mr. Luhrmann found unseen footage from "Elvis: That's the Way it is" and "Elvis on Tour" along with footage from his residency in Las Vegas from 1969 into the 1970's, as well as archival footage of his early years to create a momentous musical experience.

        The majority of the concert footage is from the Vegas residency in his white jumpsuit performing at the peak of his talents. Footage also includes other performances intercut with colorful jumpsuits that edited together move like a seamless concert. Mr. Redmond also edits in archival footage from Elvis's early years, shots of his army years, the long list of "terrible" movies (in his words), and moments with Priscilla and baby Lisa Marie.

        This is a spectacle that is not to be missed. See it in IMAX if you can or the biggest screen possible.

        The King may be dead but long live The King!

Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die

 

          Written by Matthew Robinson and directed by Gore Verbinski, this is a high concept action comedy with a serious message at its core. Mr. Robinson script contains a not so subtle message about our addiction to technology and the ever evolving growth of Artificial Intelligence, but wraps it around a gonzo Sci-Fi comedy.

          The film stars Sam Rockwell (at his lunatic best) as, seemingly, a man from the future who has travelled back in time to recruit a group of individuals to help him change the course of our future. The film co-stars Haley Lu Richardson, Michael Pena, Zazie Beetz, Asim Chaudhry, Tom Taylor, and Juno Temple.

          It's a very clever story, and in Mr. Verbinski's hands, it plays out in controlled chaos. It's a wild ride through one crazy night with an even more insane payoff. It has the same lunatic spirit as "Everything, Everywhere, All at Once", but for most, probably easier to follow.

           While a lot of fun, it will leave you with second thoughts about the phone in your hand.

Crime 101

 

          This is a very exciting new crime thriller starring the very charismatic Chris Hemsworth. Directed by Bart Layton (who also wrote the screenplay), the film is based on a story by celebrated crime author, Don Winslow. Mr. Layton ascribes to the Michael Mann school of atmospheric crime dramas and this film may remind you of "Heat" but if it does, let that be a compliment.

           Mr. Hemsworth plays Mike Davis, a thief only interested in high end scores who is very methodical in the planning and execution of his robberies. The film also stars Mark Ruffalo as the detective looking to identify and apprehend the thief, and Halle Berry as an insurance broker who ends up involved with both men. Co-starring are Barry Keoghan as a psychotic criminal, Nick Note as Mike's "fence", Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, Tate Donovan, Paul Adelstein in various roles and in a one scene cameo, Jennifer Jason Leigh.

           It's a terrific cast that play well written characters bringing depth to the story elevating it beyond a simple "cops and robbers" plot. The clever script also includes many small surprises throughout the film that create unexpected moments. 

           The title has a dual meaning referring to a figurative playbook on how to commit a crime as well as the actual  California highway 101 that plays an important role in the story. For this reason, there are just a few too many night time visuals of the highway itself but I consider that my only complaint. Otherwise, this is a action filled, throwback crime thriller with a great cast that is not to be missed.

              And an additional note, you will really appreciate the car chases seeing the film in IMAX or Dolby cinema.

            

A Private Life

 

       Jodie Foster stars in this new French film (speaking fluent French with occasional English), co-written and directed by Rebecca Ziotowski.

       Ms. Foster plays  American psychiatrist, Lillian Steiner, living and working in Paris. She begins to suspect one of her patient's apparent suicide may have been murder when the patient's daughter gives her a mysterious note. She then enlists the help of her ex-husband to investigate.

       The film co-stars Daniel Auteuil as Gabriel, her ex-husband, Virginie Efira as Paula, the patient seen in flashbacks, Mathieu Amalric as the widower, Vincent Lascoste as Julien, Dr. Steiner's son, and Luana Bajrami as Valerie, Paula's daughter.

       Ms. Foster and Mr. Auteuil have wonderful chemistry and while the film is a drama, their relationship provides slices of light humor throughout the film. While it is initially interesting to watch Ms. Foster play the lead speaking French, to her credit (and Ms. Ziotowski's), it quickly becomes second nature to the mystery itself and the nature of memory and loss.

Send Help

 

       Twisted fun from director Sam Raimi, this is not one of the usual horror films he is known for but he still provides a bloody good time in this tale of survival.

        Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien star as a smart but meek employee with a sexist jerk of a boss, who end up stranded together on a deserted island. Ms. McAdams plays Linda Little, who lives alone except for her bird and loves the TV show "Survivor".  Mr. O'Brien is Bradley Preston, the privileged new boss who passes over Linda in favor of his golf buddy for a promotion. He does make a concession by inviting her along on a business trip to Thailand.

        Once their plane goes down in a bad storm and the two end up fighting the elements and each other for survival. While Bradley thinks he's still the boss, Linda reminds him they are "no longer in the office". The two stars embrace their characters and Mr. Raimi puts them through the ringer as the upper hand of their relationship constantly shifts between them.

       Dennis Haysbert has a cameo as an executive at Bradley's company and Edyll Ismail plays Zuri, Bradley's fiancée. 

       Mr, Raimi finds interesting ways to film the everchanging dynamic of the two survivors and even finds a way to include a signature Raimi moment. And just when you think the plot is running out of steam, the script and his direction brings things to a crazy and surprising ending.

        In the middle of this freezing winter, a trip to this tropical island for this gonzo tale of survival is the perfect getaway.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple

 

   The second in a planned trilogy, this film opens just after the end of the previous film, "28 Years Later". Both are based on the original "28 Days Later" and it's sequel, "28 Weeks Later". While Alex Garland continues to write the story, this installment was directed by Nia DaCosta.

    If you are planning to see this and have not seen the original or "28 Years Later" ("28 Weeks Later" was actually a stand alone), I suggest you watch them first as this film continues the story. For that reason, most of the cast has returned and there is more emphasis on Dr. Kelson and Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal.

     Ralph Fiennes returns as Dr. Kelson and he is just terrific and seems to be really enjoying himself. Jack O'Connell returns as Jimmy Crystal, a character similar to the one he plays in "Sinners" (although not a vampire). Alfie Williams returns as Spike, a teenager reluctantly recruited by Jimmy. We are also introduced to Jimmy's disciples (his "fingers"), whom we saw briefly at the end of the previous film. They include Erin Kellyman, Emma Laird, Sam Locke, Robert Rhodes, Ghazi Al Ruffal, Maura bird, and Connor Newall. Also co-starring are Chi Lewis-Parry as "Samson", an infected that Dr. Kelson is trying to cure and Mirren Mack as a pregnant survivor.

     Mr. Garland's script explores the theme of the nature of evil as Jimmy proclaims himself the son of Satan (or as he refers to him, as "Old Nick). The film has quite a few grisly scenes and while the "infected" are zombie-like, this is not a horror film in the traditional sense.

      The film works as a perfect bridge to what will be the climatic film. The last scene even reintroduces a character from the very first film.

 

Dead Man's Wire

 

        Based on a true story, the latest film from director Gus Van Sant is a taut little thriller starring an electric Bill Skarsgard.

         The film is shot almost as a documentary as Mr. Van Sant enjoys recreating actual events. Mr. Skarsgard plays Tony Kiritsis, a man who felt swindled by a loan company, who takes the son of the owner hostage, with a shotgun wired at the back of his head. Dacre Montgomery plays Richard Hall, the nervous hostage.

            Co-starring are Cary Elwes (almost unrecognizable) as Detective Michael Grable, Myha'la as TV reporter Linda Page, Colman Domingo as DJ Fred Temple,  Al Pacino as M.L. Hall, the owner of the loan company and Kelly Lynch as his wife. Mr. Pacino's role amounts to little more than a cameo. Mr. Domingo's role is a bit bigger and more significant.

             The time and place is 1977 in Indianapolis and Mr. Van Sant goes to great lengths for authenticity in the costumes and sets.  Ironically, it was shot in Louisville Kentucky standing in for Indianapolis. It's a fast paced thriller tinged with humor and suspense that could be a distant cousin to "Dog Day Afternoon".

              Mr. Skarsgard sheds his iconic role of "Pennywise the Clown" from "IT" and makes the most of his role as Tony Kiritsis. He drives the entire film.

               It's a wild story with a surprising ending (if you don't know the actual facts). Actual footage of the real event plays during the credits.

               

Father Mother Sister Brother

 

          The latest film from writer/director Jim Jarmusch uses his favorite film structure of multiple story lines to tell three tales of family dynamics.

           "Father" tells the story of an adult brother and sister paying a visit to their widowed father. It stars Adam Driver and Mayim Bialik as the siblings and Tom Waits as their father. "Mother" also tells a story of siblings (in this case sisters) paying an annual visit of afternoon tea with their mother. It stars Cate Blanchett and Vicky Krieps as the sisters and Charlotte Rampling as their mother. "Sister Brother" is a story of adult twins who reunite to visit their former home after their parents have been killed in a plane crash. It stars Indya Moore and Luka Sabbat. Every actor is excellent.

            The entire film is a gentle look at each family's dynamic with hints of dysfunction, humor, grace, love, and in one case, surprise. The stories are not connected but do contain subtle threads of overlap in pieces of dialog and visuals.

             Fans of Mr. Jarmusch will appreciate the unhurried, "slice of life" storytelling.

              

          

Avatar: Fire and Ash

 

         The third film in James Cameron's Avatar series will not disappoint fans. If you are not familiar with the series and have some interest, I recommend you watch the first two before jumping right into the new one.

         Since the film picks up right where the story left off, the original cast all return including Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Edie Falco, Giovanni Ribisi, and Jack Champion. The cast play humans and the CGI, aliens, The Na'vi. Using motion capture and the newest technology, Mr. Cameron and his team seamlessly integrate all the visuals into a masterwork of realism, creating, once again, the world of Pandora.

           To truly immerse yourself in the film, the best way to see it is in IMAX 3-D, but any large screen format will still not disappoint. The story continues but Mr. Cameron introduces new characters and broadens the scope of the world he has created. This includes the Mangkwan, a war mongering tribe of Na'vi led by Varang, played by Oona Chaplin.

            The film is lots of fun but clocking in at slightly over three hours, it does drag a bit in the middle.  However, the finale is absolutely spectacular and will leave you in a state of awe. While this film has a definitive end, Mr. Cameron has two more films planned for the series. He leaves you wanting more.

The Testament of Ann Lee

 

          Director Mona Fastvold, who also co-wrote the story with her long time partner, Brady Corbet (the team behind The Brutalist) has made a remarkable, historical drama. It is the story of Ann Lee, the leader of the religious sect known as The Shakers. The film takes place in the 18th century and includes many musical and dance sequences that were part of The Shakers religious practice.

           Amanda Seyfried  stars as Ann Lee in an electrifying and thrilling performance. She has set herself a new bar in acting and is simply remarkable.  The film co-stars Lewis Pullman as her brother William, Thomasin McKenzie as Sister Mary (also the narrator), Stacy Martin as Jane Wardley, Christopher Abbott as Abraham, Tim Blake Nelson as Pastor Wright, , Scott Handy as James Wardley, Matthew Beard as James Whittaker and Viola Prettejohn as Nancy, Ann's niece. All daring roles in a daring movie, the entire cast is exceptional.

           Ms. Fastvold creates a true work of cinematic art. Along with her team, the direction is bold, the cinematography is gorgeous, the choreography is amazing, the music is truly original and the set and costume designs are authentic and beautifully detailed.

             I knew little of The Shakers going into this film and was intrigued by the trailer. Known for their furniture making skills, the sect was at the height of its popularity in the 1800's (somewhere between 4000-6000 members) and still exists today in considerably smaller numbers. It is a fascinating story. 

            Far from a mainstream movie, it is not for everyone but if you are open to exciting and enriching cinema, this film will reward you in it's breathless and majestic scope. Released at the end of last month, qualifying multiple Oscar nominations this year, are a lock.

Anaconda

 

    

       Starting the year off with a silly comedy sounded like a good idea but writer/director Tom Gormican surprises us with not just a comedy but an action adventure story with more depth than expected.

        The film stars Paul Rudd and Jack Black as Doug and "Griff", two life long friends, who along with their other two long time buddies, Kenny (Steve Zahn) and Claire (Thandiwe Newton) decide to remake the 1997 horror film, "Anaconda". You expect laughs from Mr. Rudd, Mr. Black, and Mr. Zahn but the real surprise is Ms. Newton (not normally known for comedy) holding her own with her co-stars. The film also co-stars Daniela Melchior, Selton Mello, Ione Skye and John Billingsley.

        Mr. Gormican's script puts adventure first and fills it in with laughs along the way. Are parts silly? Sure, but it's also pretty exciting with twists and surprises you don't expect. The CGI snake is not perfect but appropriately just the right amount for this film.

         If you are looking for counterprogramming from all the dramas and foreign films out now, this is the perfect ticket to see on a big screen. And props to Sony, the studio behind the film, for being a good sport and poking fun at itself.

Song Sung Blue

 

   Based on the documentary of the same name, director/writer Craig Brewer takes what could have easily been a sappy, light story of a Neil Diamond cover band and turns it into a heartfelt, emotional drama that cuts deep with joy, sorrow, humor and lots of Neil Diamond covers.

    Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson have wonderful chemistry as "Lightning & Thunder"", a Neil Diamond Experience. Ms. Hudson, in particular, as Clair Sardina aka "Thunder", is outstanding as the housewife and part time performer with big dreams. Of course, that's not to take anything away from Mr. Jackman who pours his heart and soul into the persona of Mike Sardina aka "Lightning". He does a great job with the Neil Diamond songs as well as the drama surrounding the story.

     The supporting cast includes Michael Imperioli in a surprising role, Fisher Stevens as Mike's dentist/manager, Ella Anderson as Claire's daughter, Rachel, King Princess as Angelina, Mike's daughter, Hudson Hensley as Dana, Claire's son, Mustafa Shakir, and Jim Belushi.

    What could have easily been a Lifetime drama, in Mr. Brewer's hands brings real emotional depth to this story. If you're a Neil Diamond fan and/or a fan of the two leads, you will have a better than expected time watching this film.  As the story reminds us, there is a lot more to Neil Diamond than "Sweet Caroline" and that goes for the film as well.

                            MY TOP TEN FILMS FOR 2025

 

One Battle After Another- ambition that lives up to its goals. A terrific ensemble cast. A great comedy/drama that doesn't waste a frame. Thoughtful and entertaining.

Hamnet- A masterpiece of filmmaking with an incredible performance by Jesse Buckley.

Train Dreams- beautifully shot and acted, a quiet, tender, poetic film that stands out above Hollywood cliches.

Marty Supreme- Magnificent performance by Timothee Chalamet carries the entertaining story.

Eden- terrific acting and directing. A fascinating different kind of survival tale from director Ron Howard, with a surprisingly excellent performance by Sydney Sweeney.

No Other Choice- very clever Korean black comedy with an excellent cast led by Lee Byung hun and Son Ye-jin.

It Was Just an Accident- guerrilla filmmaking at it's best. Examining Iranian politics, its a serious film with comedic moments that stays with you long after it ends.

Frankenstein- Gorgeous and breathtaking retelling of the iconic story with terrific cast.

The Secret Agent- haunting story of the political turmoil in Brazil in the 1970's. Wagner Moura is a magnetic presence. 

Weapons- Surprising horror film that kept you guessing with a great performance by Amy Madigan

HONORABLE MENTION-

Mickey 17- funny and biting satire of society disguised as a science fiction adventure.

Sinners- excellent performance by Michael B. Jordan and loved the first half of the film. Wasn't crazy though by the mid-genre switch.

Eddington- affected by the pandemic, an excellent microcosm of today's society 

Good Boy- fantastic direction of a dog just being a dog but turning it into a horror film. Indy was indeed a "good boy".

Companion- excellent twist and fine acting

Sentimental Value- beautiful portrait of a fractured family finding their way back.

BOTTOM TEN-

HIM- Beyond any words. Just a horrible film.

Presence- disappointing and boring

Wolf Man- poor update with a wasted Julia Garner

The Roses- terrible remake that really wasted two fine actors

Nobody 2- No reason to make a sequel

The Amateur- Rami Malik is overrated and so is this film. 

Flight Risk- I guess Michele Dockery needed a paycheck.

Captain America: New World Order- Swing and a miss by Marvel.

Ella MacKay- James L. Brooks came out of retirement for this mess?

Die My Love- despite great acting from Jennifer Lawrence an abrasive and difficult film to watch.

No Other Choice

 

         The latest film from famed director Park Chan-wook (who also wrote co-wrote the screenplay), this is a very black comedy, based on the novel, "The Ax" by Donald Westlake. "The Ax" had previously been made into a 2005 film version by Costa-Gravas. This Korean version is outstanding.

          Lee Byung-hun (of Squid Game fame) stars as Yoo Man-su, a  manager at a paper factory who is fired and goes to extreme lengths to get another job and provide for his family.  He is absolutely terrific in the role. The film co-stars Son Ye-jin as Lee Mi-ri, his wife, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok. They are all well know Korean actors and are all well cast here.

          The cinematography by Kim Woo-Hyung is terrific and there are quite a few clever visuals. 

          Mr. Chan-wook finds much dark humor in Yoo-Man-su's desperation but Mr. Byung-hun never plays things for laughs. He takes his situation very seriously and yet we find ourselves laughing anyway. Such is the skill in the writing and direction.

           The film is in Korean with English sub-titles but don't let that deter you. It is extremely well made and very entertaining.

            

Marty Supreme

 

      Timothee Chalamet is at his charismatic best as Marty Mauser, the Marty in the title. He takes his acting to another level defining a character you will both love and hate. Marty is the over confident, arrogant, scheming, selfish, hero that you root for but want to slap across the face at the same time. His fast talking schemer is reminiscent of Adam Sandler's character in "Uncut Gems", another unlikeable "hero" which makes sense since both films were written by (along with Ronald Bronstein) and directed by Josh Safdie (with his brother Bennie on "Gems"). 

      Mr. Chalamet is so excellent in this role, you can forgive any minor flaws in the film itself. He is absolutely magnetic and carries this improbable (if it wasn't based on an actual person) story squarely on his shoulders. His character, Marty Mauser has lofty goals as a world class table tennis (otherwise known as Ping Pong) player and will stop at nothing to attain them. Marty is loosely based on Marty Reisman, a flamboyant New York table tennis star of the 1950's.

       The film co-stars Gwyneth Paltrow as fading actress, married to a millionaire, played by Kevin O'Leary, Odessa A'zion as Rachel, a married neighbor that gets involved with Marty, Tyler Okonma as Wally, Marty's best friend, Abel Ferrara as Ezra, a gangster, Fran Drescher as Marty's mom, Emory Cohen as Rachel's husband, Larry "Ratso" Sloman as Marty's Uncle, and Koto Kawaguchi as Endo, the Japanese table tennis champion. Sandra Bernhard and Isaac Mizrahi also have small parts.

        The film follows Marty through a series of misadventures with the goal of reaching Japan for the World Table Tennis championship. Mr. Safie faithfully recreates New York in the 1950's and populates his film with fascinating characters. The table tennis sequences are simply remarkable and while Mr. Chalamet must have developed a skill for the game, some of moves must have been helped by careful CGI or a stunt double player. While fun to watch, Mr. Safdie does, as writer and director, overserve the story with subplots that could have been shorter and stretch the film thin in the middle.

         That said, this is still supreme entertainment, served up by a magnificent performance by Mr. Chalamet. Catch it in a theater where it deserves to be seen on a big screen.

         

Is This Thing On?

 

       The third feature from director Bradley Cooper is a less bigger than life and ambitious than his last two film. This drama (with comedic overtones) examines a couple suddenly ending their twenty year marriage and the effect it has on them and their friends. What sets it apart from other films of it's ilk, is the coping mechanism for Alex, the husband, as he accidently falls into stand up comedy and finds his material from the current state of his life.

        The film stars Will Arnett as Alex (who also was one of the writers along with Mr. Cooper and Mark Chappell), Laura Dern as his wife, Tess, Bradley Cooper as "Balls", Alex's best friend and Andra Day as Christine, who is married to "Balls". Co-starring are Amy Sedaris , and Christine Ebersole and Ciaran Hinds as Alex's parents. Blake Kane and Calvin Knegten play the couple's two boys. Sean Hayes and his real life husband, Scott Icenogle have a small part as a couple who are friends of Tess and Alex. They barely contribute anything to the film and are basically background actors. Peyton Manning has a small cameo as well.

         The film focus is on Alex and Mr. Arnett is terrific in the role. After a terrifying first time on stage, he finds his rhythm and discovers a joy in performing, he never thought possible. While Ms. Dern has the smaller role, she is always excellent and does a solid job as Christine. The two boys are well written roles and both young actors play wise beyond their years.

           Unless you are a big fan of Mr. Arnett, the film is rather pedestrian and is probably worth waiting for a streaming service at home in the near future.

Wake Up Dead Man

 

 

     Writer/director Rian Johnson brings us the third installment in the "Knives Out series'.  Following his standard structure, the film has an all-star cast, revolves around a murder, and takes place in basically one location (this time a church).

      Star Daniel Craig returns as the Benoit Blanc, the private detective brought in to solve a seemingly impossible murder at a church in a small New York town. He has plenty of suspects including Josh O'Conner as Father Jud, Josh Brolin as Msgr. Jefferson Wicks, Glenn Close as Mary, a devout woman who works for Msgr. Wicks, Jeremy Renner as Dr. Sharp, a broken hearted alcoholic doctor, Kerry Washington as Vera, an intense lawyer, Andrew Scott as Lee Ross, a famous writer fallen on hard times, Mila Kunis as Geraldine Scott, the local police chief, Cailee Spaeny as Simone, a handicapped cello player, Thomas Hayden Church as Samson, the groundskeeper, and Daryl McCormack, Vera's half brother, Cy. Jeffrey Wright also has a small part as Bishop Langstrom, Jud's superior.

     No spoilers here but one of the above is not a suspect but rather the murder victim.

     As with many films stuffed full of stars, not every character is fully developed but Mr. Johnson does his best to give everyone a motive and keep the audience guessing. Upon the onset, the murder itself looks impossible but Detective Blanc retraces all the clues and eventually leads us to the guilty party.

     It's a clever and fun film with a bit of a religious overtone and darker than the previous films but still has it's lighter moments. Both Josh Brolin and Glen Close chew the scenery and Mr. O'Conner is perfect as the young priest who is the prime suspect. Daniel Craig, always seems to be enjoying himself playing Benoit Blanc and I'm sure we haven't seen the last of him.

The Secret Agent

 

        A compelling drama from Brazil, the film is written and directed by Kleber Mendonca Filho and stars Wagner Moura. It is a political thriller that takes place in 1977 during Brazil's military dictatorship. The story follow's Mr. Moura's character, Armando, as he tries to flee from political persecution and personal revenge, while reuniting with his young son. He hides out in the city of Recife, under an assumed name, taking up residence in a building full of other political refugees. 

        Mr. Filho's team and his direction faithfully recreate Recife in the '70's, Filming on location, the visuals are remarkable and add an incredibly realistic touch. It's almost like watching a documentary. There is a strange interlude involving a human leg taking on a life of it's own (that I'm still scratching my head about) and many references to the film "Jaws" which debuted in 1977 and is playing in Recife during the course of the film. I can only imagine the shark is a metaphor for the evil taking the lives of so many innocents.

        The story takes it's time to develop and can be confusing at times but it does eventually all come together by the end. Thankfully, the interesting characters, arresting visuals, and Mr. Moura's performance will hold your attention throughout. The film is in Portuguese with English sub-titles.