The Killer Inside Me

Casey Affleck leaves his older brother Ben in the dust as the star of this new drama from director Michael Winterbottom. Mr. Affleck is mesmerizing as Lou Ford, a deputy sheriff in a small Texas town in the '50's. Beneath his quiet and polite exterior lies a total sociopath who leaves a trail of broken bodies in his wake as he goes about his daily business.

Mr. Winterbottom directs from the source novel by Jim Thompson, the very definition of pulp fiction. This slice of film noir has it all. Sex, violence, blackmail and murder all boil to the surface in a mix of "Blood Simple", "Body Heat" and "Blue Velvet". Be warned, the violence is graphic and difficult to watch.

Co-starring with Mr. Affleck are Kate Hudson, Jessica Alba, Ned Beatty, Simon Baker and Elias Koteas. For Ms. Hudson, it's a brave departure from her usual roles and she is quite good. Any film with Mr. Koteas is always a bit left of center and yet for him, it's one of his more subtle roles. Ms. Alba is physically revealing but also taps an inner strength she has only hinted at in other films. And of course it's always good to see Ned Beatty back on screen (he's been busy of late. He also does the voice of Lotso Huggins Bear in "Toy Story 3"). Mr. Baker is a bit of a disappointment bringing nothing new to his character, the town D.A. and the only person who suspects the truth. He might as well be playing his role from "The Mentalist" minus the humor.

I can't say enough about Mr. Affleck, who puts you inside the mind of Lou Ford and it's a chilling place to be. It's a performance that should be recognized but probably won't be due to the graphic nature of the role.

I Am Love

Tilda Swinton stars in this new Italian drama. She plays the matriarch of the rich and powerful Recchi family. A family that begins to show cracks in their perfect world as the film progresses. The story develops slowly as the camera lingers over every detail. Every frame of the film is like walking through an art museum. The direction and cinematography are exquisite. Ms. Swinton is excellent as always and one of the finest actors of her generation.

Metaphors abound in food, architecture, clothes and relationships. Food preparation becomes as sensual as new lovers in their seduction. Layers are slowly peeled away and new truths are revealed. This is very much an adult drama in a sea of animation and explosions typical of summer fare. Like a good meal, it is to be savored slowly. In many ways, it feels like a '50's melodrama and no doubt was inspired by films of that period.

The film is in Italian with subtitles. It's pace and low key style may not be for everyone but it does sneak up on you and lingers long after the credits roll.

Winter's Bone

Director Debra Granik made her debut with the excellent Indie film "Down To The Bone". That film also introduced Vera Farmiga, who has gone on to more well know Hollywood fare. Ms. Granik follows "Down To The Bone" with "Winter's Bone" and again launches the career of a wonderful actress.

"Winter's Bone", like it's predecessor, is set in bleak surroundings focusing on people living on or below the poverty line and features a strong female lead. Jennifer Lawrence plays Ree, a 17 year old taking care of her ill mother and younger brother and sister in the Ozark mountains of Missouri.
When her missing father skips a bail bond, Ree must find him or lose their home (which was put up against the bond).

Ms. Lawrence is wonderful as Ree. She's both tough and tender, beautifully balancing a complicated character. Co-starring as her uncle "Teardrop", is veteran actor John Hawkes, who was a regular on the excellent HBO series Deadwood. Mr. Hawkes brings multiple layers to a character who easily could have been a one note role. They are both terrific.

The script has elements of a Hollywood formula but it frequently veers off that path. The film has a documentary quality as we follow Ree's hunt for her criminal father. Ms. Granik has a knack for capturing the resolve of her characters living in a bleak and raw environment. She can make you feel the chill of an Ozark winter and find humanity buried beneath rough and sometimes scary exteriors. Her camera transports you to Ree's world and if you are unfamiliar with this way of life, this film will certainly raise your social awareness.

Jonah Hex

What is Josh Brolin thinking? Coming off terrific work in "No Country For Old Men" and "W", he picks this western based on a comic book for a follow-up? Josh, come on...I know Megan Fox is your co-star but really??

Based on the DC comic, "Jonah Hex" is the story of a disfigured bounty hunter looking for revenge against the men who killed his family. Mercifully the film is a mere 81 minutes but we still have to sit through wooden acting or in Ms. Fox's case, no acting and in John Malkovich's case, overacting. The premise is interesting only because of the supernatural twist (Mr. Hex can speak to the dead) but otherwise, this type of film has been done many times and much better. Ms. Fox appears on screen looking very pretty in her low cut bodice and if pretty were talent, she'd already have an Academy Award. Mr. Malkovich hams it up as the villain of the piece and while nice to see Will Arnett and Adian Quinn, their talents are totally wasted in small bland roles.

If you are a fan of the comic, which I was at one time, you'll want to see this out of curiosity, otherwise rent "The Outlaw Josey Wales".

Toy Story 3

Leave it to Pixar to get it right. An original story starring characters you've grown to love with witty dialog and wonderful animation. "Toy Story 3" completes the trilogy with sentimental closure that will satisfy and tug at your heartstrings.

All your favorites are back with their original vocal talents intact. Along with Woody, Buzz, Mr. & Mrs. Potatohead, Jessie and the rest, we are also introduced to Lotso Hugs Bear, Ken and Big Baby, among other new toys. When Andy (the owner of our favorite toys) grows up and packs for college, a new adventure starts and many adult themes are explored. There are many funny lines, some inside jokes (poking fun at other films) and surprisingly, quite a bit of suspense. Older kids as well as adults will really enjoy the film. Young children may find elements of the film very frightening and the message will definitely go over their heads.

The 3-D animation is not gimmicky but rather enhances and enriches the film, drawing out the colors and movement of the characters. I truly hope we don't get "Toy Story 4". Pixar nailed it here and these toys should go out on top.

Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work

An interesting and insightful look at the comic icon, Joan Rivers. This new documentary follows Ms. Rivers through a year in her life, interspersed with video clips of early stages of her career. Directed by Rick Stern and Anne Sundberg, the film is a brutally honest portrait of Ms Rivers on and off stage.

Opening with a tight close-up of Ms River's face sans makeup, you know you're in for a revealing look and credit Ms. Rivers for letting the cameras so completely into her life. Even if you are not a fan, it's interesting to walk in the shoes (and fabulous clothes) of the most successful female comic working today and discover what makes her tick.

There are ups and downs, outrageous comedy, plenty of foul language, and some touching intimate moments. The film is obviously made with love and while honest, it does skirt some issues and avoids controversy.

Ms. Rivers truly is a piece of work and may she continue to work for years to come.

Killers

About what you'd expect from a bunch of TV stars playing movie stars. "Killers" takes an retread storyline, mixes it with Ashton Kutcher, Katherine Heigl, Tom Selleck and Catherine O'Hara. It promises action, laughs and romance. All it delivers is an annoying Ms. Heigl, a bland Mr. Kutcher, Mr. Selleck's famous moustache (pointed out repeatedly in case you miss it), and Ms. O'Hara playing drunk for cheap laughs.

Spencer (Mr. Kutcher) and Jen (Ms. Heigl) meet "cute", marry and three years later live a dull life in the suburbs, when to her surprise, Jen discovers her husband is a CIA agent and people are suddenly trying to kill them. Mr. Selleck and Ms. O'Hara play Jen's parents who, under normal circumstances wouldn't have very much screen time but hang around enough for you to realize they are important to what passes for the plot.

You seen this before in "True Lies" or more recently "Mr. & Mrs. Smith". There is so much illogic in this film, 30 seconds can't cover all my questions. If you find the two young leads appealing, you probably won't be disappointed. If you care about acting and a good script, prepare to be let down.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

Fans of this bestselling book will appreciate the work of the film's screenwriters. They have managed to trim the fat, streamline the story and for the most part, keep all the integrity of the book. I say most part, because I was disappointed in the ending. However, it's a minor point, especially for people who haven't read the book and are seeing the story through fresh eyes. Whether you know the story or not going in, it's a terrific mystery with clever plotting and unexpected twists.

The cast is excellent, especially Michael Nyqvist as Mikael Bomkvist and Noomi Rapace. Ms. Rapace, is remarkable as Lisbeth Salander. She captures the spirit and physical aspects of Lisbeth perfectly. She breathes life into Lisbeth with subtle facial expressions as well as broad strokes. She is an exciting actress to watch and I look forward to her recreating the role in the sequel.

The film is in Swedish subtitles but remains easy to follow for an American audience. There are moments of horrific violence but as in the book, they are important to the characters and the story. An American version is in the works with reportedly, Brad Pitt to star and David Finchner to direct. Mr. Finchner is a great choice to direct and Mr. Pitt, I'm sure will make a fine journalist but the success of the film will turn on who is cast as Lisbeth Salander. But don't wait. The original will grab you from the start and not disappoint.

Holy Rollers

Inspired by true events, this is a fascinating story of Hassidic Jews that became Ecstasy smugglers in the late '90's. The film stars Jessie Eisenberg as Sam, a young man at a crossroad in his Jewish life and Justin Bartha as Josef, the Orthodox yet conniving hustler that gets Sam caught up in the drug trade.

With this film, Mr. Eisenberg is starting to shed the awkward teenage roles he has played for so long. He is an engaging young actor and always interesting to watch. Mr. Bartha, known primarily for "The Hangover" as the missing groom, shows his range here as he pulls Sam deeper into into a corrupt world, betraying his values, family and his faith.

The best part of the film is early on watching Sam go about his daily Hassidic life and then his initiation and seduction into the drug trade. From there on, the story takes on familiar themes of the "good guy gone bad" and it's only the unusual setting that keeps the viewer engaged. While the principles do a good job, many of the secondary actors fall flat and even a cameo from rapper Q-Tip is disappointing. He should stick to rap. Mr. Eisenberg, however, is taking the next step in what continues to be a solid acting career.

Solitary Man

Backed by a pedigree cast, Michael Douglas shines in this new Indie drama from writer/director Brian koppelman. Away from the trappings of Hollywood blockbusters, Mr. Douglas has always done his best work and come award season, he should not be overlooked for his work in this film. It is easily his best role in years.

Mr. Douglas plays Ben, a successful car dealership owner, who gets some alarming news from his doctor one day. It changes his life and not for the better. He becomes so self absorbed, he can't see his life unraveling before him and how he betrays and hurts the people in his life. Susan Sarandon, Mary-Louise Parker, Danny DeVito, Jenna Fischer, and Jesse Eisenberg are all family and friends impacted by Ben's downward spiral. It's particularly nice to see Mr. Douglas and Mr. DeVito together again in a film. They have a natural chemistry together and it's been too long.

This film is to Michael Douglas what "Crazy Heart" was to Jeff Bridges. He's not afraid to take risks here and immerses himself in the role of Ben with nothing held back. The story is not pretty, sad actually, but worth your attention to see an actor at his best.

Robin Hood

A subject done many times before, director Ridley Scott decides to take a new approach and make a prequel about Robin Longstride, the man and how he became Robin Hood, the legend. In doing so, both Mr. Scott and his muse, Russell Crowe try to recreate the depth and emotion they conveyed in "Gladiator" while throwing in a little "Braveheart" as well.

While enjoyable enough, "Robin Hood" doesn't quite reach the heights of either aforementioned film. The tone of the film is dark and very serious. Mr. Crowe"s "Robin" is a one-note character with nothing new brought to the role. For 2 1/2 hours, there is nothing you haven't seen before and nothing very memorable. Cate Blanchett co-stars as "Maid" Marion Loxley in a role that is beneath her skill and Hollywood status. She's an obvious box-office draw but her scenes with Mr. Crowe, don't exactly ignite the screen with passion and she is wasted in a "damsel-in-distress" role.

There is a well-known supporting cast including William Hurt, Max von Sydow, and Danny Houston, all doing average work. Mark Strong, who is making a nice career for himself as the villain of the minute (see "Sherlock Holmes"), plays the traitorous Godfrey with evil abandon. The climatic battle sequence plays like a medieval version of the "Saving Private Ryan" opening scene and Mr. Strong does get his comeuppance just as you would expect.

Sean Connery, Kevin Costner, Cary Elwes, and a cartoon fox have all had their shot at Robin Hood. For my money, go all the way back to 1938 and "The Adventures of Robin Hood" starring Errol Flynn. They just don't make them like the used too.

Iron Man 2

With very few exceptions, sequels just don't live up to the originals. "Iron Man 2" definitely falls into this category. With the idea that bigger is better, actor/director Jon Favreau aims high but falls short with an over produced and overblown spectacle that will still appeal to fans simply because films like this are critic proof.

Robert Downey Jr. is still a dashing hero and quick with the one-liner but it's obvious he's working a lot harder than he did in the first film, which found him a lot more relaxed and natural. Gwyneth Paltrow isn't given much to do except whine and complain and Scarlett Johansson's best scene is when she lets her actions speak louder than her dialog. Don Cheadle, so loose in the "Oceans" films is stiff as the iron suit he wears as "War Machine". As the villains, Sam Rockwell hams it up as Justin Hammer and is actually quite funny while Mickey Rourke's "Whiplash" looks imposing but is beaten much too easy.

Mr. Favreau fills the screen with so much sound and vision, it masks the fact that there is very little action with only 3 sequences to pump up the audience. And while those scenes may look good, (don't be fooled by all the exploding cars and glass), there is never any sense of real danger or suspense.

Marvel Enterprises continues to use each film as building blocks in it's comic film franchise, hinting here to the arrival of a full blown "Avengers" film on the horizon(expected in 2012). We get more of Nick Fury (Samuel Jackson, who needs to be tougher), a piece of one hero's equipment put to comic good use, and if you stay past the credits, a sneak peek of the next Marvel hero waiting in the wings.

Despite it's overindulgent flaws, "Iron Man 2" was a bit better than expected and if you enjoyed the first film, grab your popcorn and immerse yourself in it's comic book silliness.

The Secret In Their Eyes

I hadn't seen all the nominees for Best Foreign film last year, but my money was on "A Prophet". That opinion has changed now that I've seen "Secret". This Spanish language film definitely deserves it's Academy Award. This multilayered film will haunt you and yet, satisfy as well.

Ricardo Darin, well know in South America, stars as Benjamin Esposito, a retired criminal court officer who decides to reexamine a case that has haunted him for 25 years. Mr. Darin gives a very nuanced performance balancing his way through the layers of the story which starts out like a episode of "Law & Order" but becomes so much more. The simple investigation of the crime soon becomes more complex with unexpected twists and turns.

On the surface, it's a murder mystery but there is a heartbreaking love story in place as well. The rape and murder of a young women sets the story in motion. Be warned that the scene of the crime is not pretty but the brutality of the crime is important to fuel Esposito's obsession in the case. When he decided to revisit the case, much of the film is told in flashback and the growing relationship between Mr. Darin and Soledad Villamil, reveals an unspoken love that still smolders years later.

Besides the two leads, there is some fine work by Guillermo Francella, as Pablo Sandoval, Esposito's friend and co-worker as well as Pablo Rago as the widower of the victim. All the acting is superb and the story grows richer with every scene. "The Secret In Their Eyes" is an intelligent, absorbing film that should not be missed.

Date Night

Steve Carell and Tina Fey star in this new comedy but don't go expecting "Liz Lemon" or "Michael Scott", the characters they play on TV or you will be disappointed. Taking two well known comedy actors who are known for their very strong characters and pairing them in a film seems like a wonderful idea but stripped of those characters, the results are only mildly amusing.

The two comics play a married couple from New Jersey who, tired of their routine lives, have a "date night" in Manhattan. Predictably, things go chaotically wrong after a case of mistaken identity. The plot is derivative from "The Out of Towners", a terrific comedy with Jack Lemmon and Sandy Dennis. In that film, it's as if the city itself conspires against the visiting couple. This time we are given the standard gangster and crooked politician with cops on the take who threaten our hapless couple.

There is one very funny sight gag involving a rowboat and an original idea for a car chase but not many "laugh out loud" moments. A scene in a back room club involving a pole dance is actually embarrassing for both Mr. Carell and Ms. Fey as well as for William Fichtner, who plays the crooked DA. Ms Fey gets the bulk of the good one-liners and Mark Walhberg is pretty funny in a self parody. D.J. Smoove (so funny on "Curb Your Enthusiasm") is wasted in what could almost be considered a racial stereotype as a frightened cabbie. Mark Ruffalo and Kristin Wiig are completely wasted in what amounts to a cameo but James Franco and Mila Kunis show some comic flair as the real couple being sought by the villains.

I'm sure the pitch for this film was great but a stronger script would have produced better results.

Kick-Ass

Let me be very clear...this film is not for everyone. It is ultra-violent and completely deserves it's R-rating. If watching an 11 year old girl maim and kill while using language unfit for many adults, let alone a child, is not your idea of fun then read no further. This is not your kind of movie.

On the other hand, if you are a fan of the graphic novel (IE; comic book) it's based on or films like "Sin City", or "Watchmen", then by all means, keep reading as this film is definitely for you. The screenplay is by director, Matthew Vaughn (who made the delicious British crime film, "Layer Cake"), Jane Goldman and Mark Millar and John Romita (who teamed up for the original comic book). They have rendered a perfect live action recreation of the comic and fans will love it.

It's a perfect cast. Aaron Johnson has his first major lead as Dave Lizewski/Kick-Ass and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Red Mist, will make you forget him as "McLovin" in "Superbad". But two of the biggest surprises are a humble and subdued Nicolas Cage as "Big Daddy", who clearly respects the script and the wonderful Chloe Grace Moretz, who steals the film and will blow you away (literally & figuratively) as "Hit-Girl". Ms. Moreta is the aforementioned killer 11-year old with very adult language who is just remarkable in a role that has caused quite a stir. A controversy made worse when, not only does she main and kill but is herself, beaten to a pulp by Mark Strong, the villain of the piece (Mr. Strong is making quite the career of playing villains. He's also the sheriff of Nottingham in the upcoming "Robin Hood").

The film holds none of the gravitas of "Batman" and in many ways is a self parody of "super hero" movies. It can be extremely violent and very funny and the combination doesn't always work back to back but overall, for a film major studios wouldn't touch, it certainly will appeal to today's young audiences who are numb to the violence but are also in on the joke.

City Island

A small jewel buried beneath the blockbusters and spring rejects, "City Island" will amuse you and warm your heart. It's the story of the Rizzo family, born and raised for generations on City Island, a small piece of real estate located on Long Island sound, a stone's throw from the Bronx, New York.

The cast could not be more perfect. Andy Garcia is Vince Rizzo and Julianna Margulies is Joyce, his wife of 20 years. They have a daughter, Vivian and a son, Vinnie and they are a loving but dysfunctional family, each hiding their own secrets. This is one of the best characters Andy Garcia has ever played. He shows a flair for comedy you don't often see and he is so natural in the role, you believe completely in the character. Ms. Margulies matches him scene for scene and easily balances the many sides of Joyce. The film also features Emily Mortimer and Alan Arkin in smaller but pivitol roles.

When a new character is introduced, secrets begin to unravel and family chaos reigns. To tell more would spoil the fun but I'm sure you'll have an enjoyable time visiting City Island and leave the theater smiling.

Clash Of The Titans

The original was cheesy, light and silly but fun to watch. This remake is cheesy, silly, and with the exception of three scenes, dull to watch. Sam Worthington, fresh off of "Avatar" is strong man of action but can't act his way out of his amor chestplate. And furthermore, he steals all his fighting techniques from watching Brad Pitt in "Troy".

The three scenes that will keep you awake are the attack of the giant scorpions, the battle with Medusa, and the final battle with the Kraken (which really is the highlight and saved for the end). Between these set pieces, you can go to the restroom, refill your popcorn or take a quick nap.

Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes lend their gravitas to the film as Zeus and Hades (respectively) but you can't even take them seriously. There is no character development and you probably won't even care who lives or dies. If you're in the mood for mindless swordplay and mythology that won't leave a lasting impression (even while you are watching it), then this one is for you.

I would also recommend that you find a theater showing it in 2-D, rather than 3-D (if you still insist on going). The 3-D technology is completely wasted here. The film was shot in 2-D and converted later to 3-D. It shows. Unlike "Avatar" the 3-D does nothing to enhance the visuals. It actually makes the film darker and harder to watch.

Greenberg

The latest drama from writer/director Noah Baumbach, stars Ben Stiller who turns in a terrific performance as the title character. The problem is, that while his performance is stellar, Roger Greenberg is a self absorbed, unlikeable 40 year old trying to restart his life after a breakdown and he's not fun to watch.

As the film began, I found myself hating every minute of it but then a funny thing occured. Mr. Stiller, playing against type makes this irritating, post breakdown, and almost comatose, character sympathetic. Greta Gerwig plays Florence, a personal assistant to Roger's brother and a potential love interest for Greenberg. Florence has her own neurosis to deal with and their very odd courtship becomes fascinating to watch.

Rhys Ifans plays Ivan, an old friend of Greenberg's and like Florence and Greenberg, he too lacks energy and drifts in and out of his scenes. And yet, you find yourself rooting for him to succeed with his own demons as well. It's a strange film where most of the characters lack any appeal but you are drawn to them anyway.

I can't count "Greenberg" as one of Mr. Baumbach's best. He co-wrote it with his wife, Jennifer Jason Leigh (who has a small role as Greenberg's ex-girlfriend). They have created unlikeable characters in awkward situations that don't do much to redeem themselves. But there is something brewing beneath the surface that keeps you engaged and that is also a testament to the fine acting by Mr. Stiller and Ms. Gerwig.

A Prophet

Nominated at this year's Oscars for best foreign film, "A Prophet" is a remarkable character study of a criminal's rise to power in the French penal system. When Malik ( played by Tahar Rahim) arrives in prison to start a six year sentence, he is a naïve 19 year old. Once there he learns more than just to read and write.

Niels Arestrup plays Cesar Luciani, the criminal kingpin of the prison. It is Cesar that forces Malik's initiation into hard time when orders him to murder another inmate. From that point on, Malik works for Cesar in return for protection. Mr. Arestrup's Cesar is a Corsican Don Corleone, controlling everything inside and out of the prison with a network of corrupt guards and informants everywhere. He is a force to be reckoned with.

Like Michael Corleone in "The Godfather", it is Malik who begins innocent and grows under the tutelage of his older father figure. The film is a lesson in the corruptive nature of power and the struggle for survival in a hostile environment, filled with mistrust and betrayal. There are moments of raw violence with an impact so strong, you'll imagine violence throughout, when in reality, it's just a few scenes.

Mr. Rahim is a compelling actor, hard to read but fascinating to watch as he grows through the course of the film. His scenes with the terrific Mr. Arestrup are wonderful to watch. Their last scene together is unforgettable.

The Runaways

Every great rock band always has a charismatic lead singer and guitarist to play off each other. The Runaways weren't a great band but they had plenty of charisma. They were trendsetters and broke the barrier for women in rock. This is the story of the band and in particular, the relationship between Joan Jett and Cheri Currie. The film is produced by Joan Jett and based on a memoir by Ms. Currie so one has to assume most of what we see on screen is fairly accurate.

The director, Floria Sigismondi, captures the energy and sleaze of 1975 Los Angeles with a keen ear and eye for the rock scene of that era. Kristen Stewart makes a memorable Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning gives her most adult performance yet (ironic as she plays a 15 year old) as Cheri Currie. Michael Shannon shows chameleon like abilities portraying record producer, Kim Fowley, a role unlike anything he's done to date.

The story concentrates on the volatile relationship between Ms. Jett and Ms. Currie. Much is being made about an on screen kiss but it makes sense as Ms. Jett's love for Ms. Currie is obvious from their first meeting. What eventually tears them apart is Ms. Currie's need for a life outside of the band unlike Ms. Jett, who's life is the band. It's fascinating to watch the rise and fall of The Runaways especially if you lived through that time period. For Today's youth, it's a cautionary tale of too much too soon.

The focus on Jett and Currie makes sense as they were the face and sound of the band but I would have liked to know more about the other three members of the band. In particular, Lita Ford, who gets no back story and yet went on to her own solo popularity years later. Even in the post script, there is no mention of Ms. Ford, drummer Sandy West or the bassist know simply as Robin.