The Meg

      Jason Statham vs a 75 foot CGI shark...how can you pass this up? One of film's best action heroes saves the day in this mindless, silly, summer romp. Bigger and badder than the great white in "Jaws" but lacking any of the suspense,  this is still fun and a perfect diversion on a hot and steamy summer day.

     Mr. Statham is a natural in the water where he must utilize his less than usual skills to take on this monster shark. He is joined by Rainn Wilson as a snarky billionaire with his own agenda and research scientists played by Cliff Curtis, Li Bingbing, Ruby Rose, Winston Chao, Page Kennedy, and a cameo by Masi Oka. Of course, there is also the requisite cute child played by Shuya Sophia. 

      I can't really complain about the script as it delivers what it promises but I did find the character of DJ to be a borderline offensive, stereotype played for comic relief. The dialog is silly and the premise ridiculous but director Jon Turtleltaub still finds a way to make it entertaining and keeps things moving at a reasonable clip. The script even throws in a few surprises. 

       Check your brain at the door, grab your popcorn and settle in for the ride...

BLACKkKLANSMAN

         A spectacular return to form for director Spike Lee, this is his most powerful and entertaining film in years. The film is based on the incredible true story of Ron Stallworth, an undercover black policeman in Colorado, who actually joins the Klu Klux Klan in the early '70's. Mr. Lee co-wrote the screenplay and directed the film which thinly veils contemporary America in a story taking place over 40 years ago. 

         The film stars John David Washington as Ron Stallworth, and Adam Driver as his partner "Flip" Zimmerman. How a black policeman and his white Jewish partner infiltrate the KKK is just an incredible story and while the film takes some liberties for dramatic purposes, it's still amazing and it will shake you to the core. While there are many humorous moments, this is far from a comedy and it's underlying message just reinforces how little has changed in this country when it comes to bigotry and hateful racism.

                    In his first starring role, Mr. Washington is simply great. Maybe it's his acting genes as his father is Denzel Washington (close your eyes and you might think it's Denzel in the film) or just his natural talent but this is his breakthrough role. Mr. Driver, as his partner Flip also does remarkable work in what is probably his best role to date. Mr. Lee has brought out the best in both actors. The film co-stars Topher Grace, Laura Harrier, Cory Hawkins, Robert John Burke, Frederick Weller, Michael Buscemi, and Isiah Whitlock Jr. There are also devastating (for different reasons) cameos by Alec Baldwin and Harry Belafonte.

                     The cast is fantastic, the story is remarkable and the message is clearly powerful. The ending will leave you stunned. It's easily one of the best films of the year, if not the best, and demands multiple Oscar nominations. It's a film everyone in America needs to see.

Three Identical Strangers

      One of the most interesting and remarkable documentaries you'll ever see. Directed by Tim Wardle, this new film tells the story of three brothers separated as infants, who were unaware of each other until fate brought them together at age 19.

      What starts out as a feel good movie, "Strangers" turns dark when we learn their separation was no accident but rather a planned experiment of "nature vs nurture" done without anyone's permission. What was done to these three boys was insidious and the film will anger you as well as amaze you due to it's unbelievable, yet true, story.

      Told in flashbacks with original photos and videos, a bit of recreation, and contemporary interviews, it really is an incredible story that is very emotional and should stimulate much discussion once it ends.

Mission Impossible: Fallout

      Number six in the series and Tom Cruise continues to do the impossible. Mr. Cruise makes it a point to do his own stunts and writer/director Christopher McQuarrie makes sure you know it's him, whether he's free falling from an airplane, hanging from a helicopter, scaling a mountain, speeding through cities in cars and motorcycles or jumping across rooftops.

      Mr. Cruise returns with many of the same characters from the series including Ving Rhames,  Simon Pegg, Alec Baldwin, Sean Harris, Rebecca Fergurson and Michelle Monaghan. New to the series is Angela Bassett, Vanessa Kirby and Henry Cavill.

       The action is fast and furious and the stunt work by Mr. Cruise and others is very impressive. There is also welcome humor (much at Mr. Cruise's own expense) and plenty of suspense. The final act of the film, in particular, is designed to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. My only real criticism is, striving to give you every bang for your buck, it runs too long with probably one chase scene too many. Otherwise, this mission is a perfect summer "popcorn" movie. Escapist fun at it's best.

Sorry To Bother You

          The most original and outrageous film you will see this year. Written and directed by Boots Riley, this is a scathing satire of race, class, and capitalism.

           Lakeith Stanfield stars as Cassius "Cash" Green, a man living in a garage and struggling to find work. Cash ends up at a telemarketing company, where, on the advice of another African American sales rep (played by Danny Glover), he adopts a "white voice" on the phone and becomes an instant success.

          The film also stars Tessa Thompson as Cash's girlfriend, Detroit, Arnie Hammer as Steve Lift, a crazed CEO, Steven Yeun as Squeeze, another telemarketer looking to organize the workers, and Jermaine Fowler as Salvador, Cash's friend. David Cross and Patton Oswalt provide the "white" voices.

           This is a very funny comedy filled with social commentary that, more often than not, hits the mark. It does venture frequently into the surreal and may not be a film for everyone. Mr. Riley is an original voice and if you do pay attention, you'll realize the film speaks volumes.

Ant-Man and The Wasp

             It is rare when the sequel surpasses the original but returning director Peyton Reed, unencumbered by an origin story, makes the most out of the light hearted, fun script and gives us a great summer "popcorn" movie.

             It is refreshing to watch a superhero film without the threat of an alien invasion or having to save the world from some unseen danger. The stakes are still high but of a more personal nature and the film has plenty of action, warmth and humor with a great cast. Paul Rudd returns as Scott Lang, "Ant-Man" and his laid back charm and humor serve the story well. Evangeline Lilly also returns but now shares the spotlight as The Wasp and she is terrific. They make a great pair.

              Much of the the original cast also returns including a very funny Michael Pena, Michael Douglas, having a blast as Hank Pym, the original "Ant-Man", Judy Greer, Bobby Cannavale, Tip "TI" Harris and Randall Park. Joining for this go around is Michelle Pfeiffer, Walton Goggins, Laurence FIshburne and Hannah John-Kamen.

               The special effects are terrific, the comic timing impeccable, and the heart at the center of the story makes it truly endearing. The tone is lighter than most Marvel films with their grandiose gravitas and it reminded me of "Thor: Ragnarok" with its self aware playfulness. It's a lot of fun and if you have been paying attention to all the Marvel films (in particular "Avengers: Infinity War"), the ending will definitely produce a loud gasp.

Woman Walks Ahead

              The fact based story of Caroline Weldon, a portrait painter, who in 1890 traveled from New York to The Dakotas to paint a portrait of Chief Sitting Bull as well as become an advocate for Native American rights. While a small Indie film, in limited release, the cast is first rate. Ms. Weldon is played by Jessica Chastain and Sitting Bull is played by Michael Greyeyes. Other key co-stars include Sam Rockwell, Ciaran Hinds, and Bill Camp.

             Ms. Chastain, playing a naive Eastern woman of some wealth, still brings a fierceness to her role as she grows to know Sitting Bull and the true plight of the Lakota Indians. Mr. Greyeyes brings a realism and humanity to his portrayal of a still proud Chief who knows resistance to the White man's government has become futile.

              It is a timely subject as it deals with the period in our history when Native Americans were broken down and forced to relocate to smaller tribal lands. While they were allowed to vote on the ratification of the treaties, and even though they voted against it, the U.S. government enforced it anyway.

              The focus of the film is the relationship between Ms. Weldon and Sitting Bull and there is great chemistry between Ms. Chastain and Mr. Greyeyes. While a western, it is foremost a human drama that serves to remind us of an ugly period in our history that remains today in many parts of the world. 

Leave No Trace

          From the writer/director of "Winter's Bone" comes another powerful film about the disenfranchised people who live on the edge of society. Debra Granik introduced the world to Jennifer Lawrence in that excellent film. Now, in this story of a father and his daughter living off the grid in the forests of Oregon, she introduces another fine young talented actress, Thomasin McKenzie. 

           Playing  the daughter of a war veteran suffering from PTSD, played by the amazing Ben Foster, is no easy task but Ms. McKenzie shines as Tom. Wise for her teenage years, she is torn between the love for her father and her longing to experience the world he has shielded her from for so long.  As the film begins, the two live quietly in the woods, venturing into town occasionally for supplies. Accidently discovered, they are forced to reenter society and adapt uneasily into new lives.

           The brilliant chemistry between Mr. Foster and Ms. McKenzie is remarkable. They carry the entire film and convey so much even with little dialogue. The cinematography too, is brilliant bringing us deep into the Oregon forest and the intimacy of their world. In smaller but meaningful roles are Jeff Korber and Dale Dickey.

                While we learn little of what drove Will and Tom into their situation in the first place, it is easy to think of this reality for many war veterans who have trouble assimilating into society once they return home.  Love, compassion and pain share every scene. For us, the audience, the film is a quiet but jarring shock to the system.

The Catcher Was a Spy

            This "based on a true story" Indie drama tells the little known story of Morris "Moe" Berg, a 15 year major league baseball catcher, who became a spy for the U.S. in the early days of World War Two.

            In an unusual dramatic turn, Mr. Berg is played by Paul Rudd. Mr. Rudd's quirky style serves him well as Moe was an odd and enigmatic character. A Jewish baseball player who spoke seven languages fluently and at least three more adequately, he earned extra money appearing on TV game shows putting his high intelligence to the test.  He was single his whole life and while there were rumors of homosexuality, Moe never publicly acknowledged it.

            There are a minimal amount of baseball scenes once Moe is recruited by the OSS (the organization that later became the CIA). The majority of the film focuses on his first mission, to learn if Germany was close to making an atomic bomb. Directed by Ben Lewin, the film races along, barely stopping to catch its breath. Clocking in at a bit more than 90 minutes, this is a rare case where less editing and more story would have really made a difference. Whether it's the script, direction or combination of both, we learn very little of this American hero. The story teases us with so many plot points that are never really explored.

             A terrific cast is wasted in barely more than cameos. Besides Mr. Rudd, the film also stars Jeff Daniels, Sienna Miller, Mark Strong, Guy Pearce, Paul Giamatti, Tom Wilkinson, and in a rare appearance, Giancarlo Giannini.  

             Moe Berg was a fascinating character but unfortunately, the film doesn't do him justice and only leaves you wanting to learn more about the man.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom

     Picking up right after the first "Jurassic World", Chris Pratt and Bryce Howard reprise their roles and try to save the remaining dinosaurs on Isla Nublar. This new film follows the "Jurassic formula" pretty closely but moves the action in the second half to a new location. Menacing dinos, heroic dinos, children in danger and evil greedy humans give us plenty of what we've all seen before. 

         By switching the action in the second half, the writers and director, J. A. Bayona try their best to infuse something new into the series but despite their best efforts (and there quite a few good moments), ultimately the film just rehashes it's formula. You can almost feel Steven Spielberg (who's an executive producer) sitting on Mr. Bayona's shoulder whispering "cool idea but let's not stray to far from what works".

         What really doesn't work is the music. Michael Giacchino's bombastic orchestral score envelopes and overpowers every scene. I found it extremely distracting and a typical "Spielberg" move. While I admire Mr. Spielberg very much, I have always found his music overpowering and manipulative and here, Mr. Bayona makes the same mistake.

          Visually the film is terrific. The dinosaurs, through CGI and puppetry, look amazing and truly appear real in every scene. Mr. Pratt and Ms. Howard act and react accordingly, although Mr. Pratt is less snarky here than the previous film. It's good to see Jeff Goldblum in a too brief cameo. Isabella Sermon is the requisite youngster who screams very well. Rafe Spall is appropriately oily and Ted Levine makes sadistic soldier of fortune look easy. 

           The first half of the film is exciting with it's own terrific climax. I found the second half silly and disappointing (save for those few good moments I alluded to earlier). The pace is fast and despite its faults, the film gives it's fan base what it wants, dinosaurs behaving badly. And of course, the ending lends itself to the inevitable third film in this planned trilogy. 

Hereditary

          Writer/director Ari Aster evokes classic psychological horror films (like Rosemary's Baby or The Sixth Sense) with this tale of a haunted family slowly unraveling from the opening moments. Toni Collette and Gabriel Bryne are Annie and Steve Graham. They live in a beautiful home isolated in the Utah woods with their children, teenager Peter (Alex Wolff) and 13 year old Charlie (Milly Shapiro).

           The film begins with the obituary of Annie's mother Ellen and quickly moves to the funeral and its aftermath. Mr. Aster creates a sense of growing dread from those opening scenes and never lets up.

            Unexpected further tragedy occurs, in an absolutely horrific scene, and the family's descent into madness truly begins with Annie and Peter affected the most. Ms. Shapiro plays Charlie as a very creepy little girl but as things progress, it's Annie and Peter that really start to go off the deep end. There are flashes of genuine terror that Mr. Aster reveals slowly in subtle but terrifying ways. The score and camerawork brilliantly help raise audience goosebumps throughout culminating in an insane final act that you will either accept or find completely ridiculous.

            Ms. Collette is just fantastic as her character realistically unravels under the weight of her circumstances. Mr. Wolff is also terrific for the same reason. Only Mr. Byrne, a wonderful actor, is wasted as the character of Steve is so underwritten, it could have been played by a tree.  Co-star Anne Dowd is effectively creepy as Joan, a woman Annie meets at a grief support group.

               Mr. Aster shows great promise with this effective first effort. He keeps the violence and gore to a minimum using using the effects very strategically. Instead, he relies on atmosphere, music and strong acting to grab his audience and never let go. 

The Incredibles 2

             If you are a fan of "The Incredibles", then a 14 year wait was worth the time for the next chapter. Written and directed by Brad Bird, this sequel is that rare breed that surpasses the original. The script is stronger as well as the character development.

             Featuring all the returning vocal talents including Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson, Samuel L. Jackson, Sarah Vowell, and Huck Milner, the film also introduces new characters played vocally by Bob Odenkirk and Catherine Keener. Jonathan Banks takes over the role of Rick Dicker. Everyone is perfectly matched to their animated character.

             The film turns the animation up quite a notch from 14 years ago. The colors pop and all the visuals are outstanding. It's a fun film with many adult themes that may go right past the kids but won't be lost on the adults in the audience. Of course there is plenty of action to keep everyone stimulated and baby "Jack Jack", discovering his powers, steals the film. His fight with a racoon would border on animal cruelty if this wasn't an animated film.

                 There is a lovely animated short before the film which has become a Pixar signature and also a quick nod from the lead actors thanking the fans for being so patient.

                 Score another big hit for Pixar.

Ocean's 8

        Capitalizing on a successful franchise and adding an all female cast, this heist comedy is high gloss,  superficial summer fun.

        Co-written and directed by Gary Ross, this is high concept at its most glamorous. It lacks the edge of it's male predecessors but the winning heist movie formula and cast chemistry will keep you entertained. The film stars Sandra Bullock as Debbie Ocean, who sets things in motion the second she is released from prison. The team she puts together include Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Rhianna, Awkwafina, and Helena Bonham Carter (yes, I realize that's seven total but the eighth is a surprise I won't spoil). The film also co-stars Anne Hathaway, James Corden, and Richard Armitage.

          Robbing a valuable diamond necklace at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual Gala is the plan and that gives the film plenty of opportunities for celebrity cameos and fabulous clothing. Watching the film is like taking a visual tour through Glamour or Vogue magazine. It's very pretty to look at but easy to remember it's not the "real" world. Pulling off this heist so many improbable things come together that you need no reminder this is purely escapist entertainment, light and enjoyable like a colorful, summer cocktail. 

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

             Morgan Neville directs this new documentary about Fred Rogers, the pioneer of children's television in the '60s. On and off camera, Fred Rogers was a remarkable man who could relate to children like no other adult. The film does a great job capturing the life and philosophy of Mr. Rogers.

              Using archival footage, on and off camera, interviews with family, friends, and coworkers we get an intimate look at the television personality, who as one person says, was truly radical for his time. The one missing element was an earlier look at Fred Rogers and how he grew into a one of a kind human being. We learn little of his childhood, except that his parents were wealthy and that he was a fat child. Beyond that, the film focuses on his early years in television and how he came to reshape children's programming.

               There are candid moments, rare footage, including a wonderful segment with Koko the gorilla, and even outtakes. It's the feel good movie of the year. You can't help but leave the theater with a smile on your face and Mr. Roger's universal message ringing in your ears. Love is the answer.

First Reformed

     Writer/director Paul Schrader returns with a powerful new drama fueled by a magnificent performance by Ethan Hawke. It is a heavy drama that questions faith and purpose. It's far from a "mainstream" film and is not for everyone.

      Mr. Hawke stars as Reverend Toller. His small church known as "the Souvenir shop", has historical relevance but a tiny congregation. Already dealing with emotional and physical issues, the Reverend's faith is waning and becomes even more of a struggle once he agrees to counsel Michael and Mary, two of his parishioners. 

        The film co-stars Amanda Seyfried as Mary, Philip Ettinger as Michael, and Cedric (The Entertainer) Kyles as Pastor Jeffers. Mr. Kyles  is quite good, in what I believe, is his first serious role. Ms. Seyfried brings depth to what appears to be an ordinary role. The whole film is well cast but really belongs to Mr. Hawke. He is mesmerizing as Toller and it's his performance that carries the film. Without him, the film would collapse under its own weighty issues. It's a role worth a serious Academy Award consideration.  

                  In some ways, this film could be considered a distant cousin to Mr. Schrader's masterpiece, "Taxi Driver". Toller is a loner, who's internal monologue narrates much of the film. There is no soundtrack with the exception of minimally used ominous, electronic beats. The film is bleak and heads down a dark path to a surprising and what some may think, a confusing ending. But if you are a fan of excellent acting and Mr. Hawke's work, you will be rewarded.

Disobedience

        When her rabbi father dies, Ronit returns to her Orthodox Jewish community in London, years after she was turned away for having a teenage romance with another female friend. Once home, she is reunited with Dovid and Esti, her childhood friends.

               Ronit, or Ronni as she calls herself in the secular world, is played by Rachel Weisz, Dovid is played by Alessandro Nivola, and Rachel McAdams plays Esti. The relationship between the three characters is beautifully played, loving, yet strained and all three actors are striking in their roles. The chemistry between Ms. Weisz and Ms. McAdams, in particular, is stunning.

               The film is a glimpse into Orthodox Jewish life with quite a twist. It is a sensitive drama that examines love, religion, and freedom of expression. At times, fragile and yet bound by an intensity that is palatable, the film moves towards an inevitable conclusion that is both surprising and a bit ambiguous. 

Solo: A Star Wars Story

         Otherwise known as "When Han Met Chewy", this stand alone Star Wars film tells the early adventures of Han Solo and answers all the questions that have been on fans minds for years. Directed by Ron Howard, it is packed with action sequences galore and should satisfy any Star Wars fan.

          It's impossible to fill the boots of Harrison Ford as Han Solo but Alden Ehrenreich does an admirable job portraying a young, optimistic, cocky version of the grizzled iconic character.  Donald Glover plays the younger version of Lando Calrissian and he nails the character perfectly. Chewbacca is played by Joonas Suotamo, who took over the role in the last Star Wars film. New faces in the cast include Woody Harrison as Tobias Beckett, a thief and Han's mentor, Thandie Newton as his wife, Emilia Clarke as Qi'ra, Han's first love, Paul Betthany as Dryden Vos, a master criminal and the voices of Phoebe Waller- Bridge as L-7, Lando's Droid and Jon Favreau as Rio Durant, an alien member of Beckett's crew.

            Written by Lawrence Kasdan and his son Jonathan, who have written or co-written most of the Star Wars films, they fill this story with even more strange worlds, exciting action and strong characters. Mr. Howard and his team bring it all to life. Creator George Lucas gives them the keys to the kingdom and they don't disappoint. A perfect popcorn movie to start the summer film season off right.

Life of The Party

      There have been lots of really funny films about adults going back to college. This isn't one of them. It has a few good laughs but overall, it's not Melissa McCarthy's best work. As an actress, Ms. McCarthy improves with each film but co-writing this film with her husband, Ben Falcone (who also directed), she doesn't do herself any favors.

      It's an obvious attempt to cash in for Mother's Day with a plot that revolves around Ms. McCarthy's character, Deanna, going back to finish college where her daughter is a senior. Don't expect it to last much beyond Mother's Day in a theater. Like Deanna herself, the plot is just too nice and sweet with barely any edge. It forces conflict with the barest of "mean girls". 

     Most of the jokes fall flat and not enough is made of Ms. McCarthy's gift for physical humor (save for one scene in a classroom, that ends up more embarrassing than anything else). There are two funny sequences that ironically don't even take place at the college.

     The film features many comedic actors from television.  Matt Walsh (better on "Veep") plays Deanna's husband, Maya Rudolph plays her best friend (completely over the top as if trying to make the film funnier by herself), Julie Bowen (against type) as Deanna's eventual nemesis, Chris Parnell (underutilized), and Jimmy O. Yang (much funner on "Silicon Valley").

      A subplot involving a handsome college student infatuated with Deanna is not funny, just creepy. And in a last ditch effort to inject "life" into this party, there is a performance by Christina Aguilera performing her old hit,"Stronger"which is not exactly relevant anymore. More films like this and Ms. McCarthy will find herself in the same place...no longer relevant. Better scripts and different directors should be able to bring out her best work.

Deadpool 2

   Ryan Reynolds is back as the anti-hero, "merc with a mouth", Deadpool in this loud, violent, R-rated sequel. But hey, what else would you expect from Deadpool?

    If you were a fan of the first one, expect more of the same but this time many of the self deprecating and inside jokes are forced to the point of exhaustion. Yes, there are many funny lines and Mr. Reynolds is a charming lead, despite the scarred makeup but just piling on the gags, explosions and one-liners does not necessarily make for a better film. The plot line of this film is actually so sweet and loving, it almost doesn't even qualify as a Deadpool film. Unexpectedly, love and family are key elements between the massive amounts of violent mayhem.

    Back for the sequel are T.J Miller, Leslie Uggams (having a blast as "Blind Al"), Morena Baccarin, Brianna Hildebrand and Karan Soni. New to the cast are Josh Brolin as Cable, a time traveling soldier, Julian Dennison as Russell Collins/Firefist, and Zazie Beetz as Domino. The CGI X-Man Colossus also returns along with a surprise Marvel villain.

    The unique quirky style of the first film was a pleasant surprise. Now that we've come to expect it, the originality is lost. It's still fun but the edge is just not as sharp as Deadpool's twin swords.

Tully

         The latest collaboration between writer Diablo Cody and director Jason Reitman is a unremarkable family drama, worth your time if just for the terrific acting by Charlize Theron and MacKenzie Davis.

         Ms. Theron plays Marlo, a mother of two young kids (with a third on the way) whose life continues to beat her down. Her son has serious issues that others call "quirky". Her husband, played by Ron Livingston, is preoccupied with work and his video games before bed. After the third child is born, the needs of all three kids, and lack of sleep all take their toll. Marlo's rich brother, played by Mark Duplass, worried about her, treats her to a night nanny to help with the baby. Shortly thereafter, we met Tully, played by Ms. Davis.

         Never compromising, Ms. Theron plays Marlo, an overworked, overweight, tired housewife making what she can out of an unglamorous life. Enter Tully, every mother's dream of a nanny to help, not just with the baby but with Marlo herself. The two bond and with Tully's help, Marlo begins to once again feel alive. 

        The story follows a fairly predictable path, although it becomes increasingly obvious there is more to Tully herself, than meets the eye. There is excellent chemistry between the two leads and Ms. Theron, in particular, gives a raw honest performance but the simple script offers little. It's a fairy tale for tired, overworked moms everywhere.