The Old Man & The Gun

                 A lighthearted comedy/drama based on the true story of bank robber, Forrest Tucker. The film stars Robert Redford (in what is reportedly his last film role) as Tucker and he couldn't be more perfectly cast. Mr. Redford still has that twinkle in his eye and is utterly charming in the role. You can't help but smile throughout the film as he and his "Over The Hill" gang (Tom Waits and Danny Glover) rob banks throughout Texas and Missouri. 

          The film also co-stars Sissy Spacek who has incredible chemistry with Mr. Redford. They are a complete pleasure to watch together. Casey Affleck also co-stars as Detective John Hunt who becomes obsessed with capturing Tucker. Tika Sumpter plays his wife. There are also cameos from Isiah Whitlock Jr., Elizabeth Moss, Keith Carradine, and John David Washington.

          Writer/director David Lowery knows how much the camera loves his star and makes use of many closeups.  His screenplay is based on a magazine article about Mr. Tucker and he lets the audience know from the start that "most" of the film is true. He directs in a laid back, leisurely fashion and the film is entertaining throughout. If this is truly Mr. Redford's last film, he is going out in style.

Lizzie

       This is a beautifully made film about a famous, true life, grizzly murder. Chloe Sevigny stars as "Lizzie" (as in Borden), who was accused and acquitted of the murders of her father and stepmother in 1892.

       Ms. Sevigny is absolute perfection in a complicated role and her co-star, Kristen Stewart as Bridget Sullivan, is wonderful in a strong understated performance as the family's young housekeeper.  The film also stars Kim Dickens as Emma Borden, Lizzie's older sister and as her father and stepmother, Jamey Sheridan and Fiona Shaw. Co-starring is Denis O'Hare as Uncle John.

        The script, by Bryce Kass, sticks to the facts of the case (as history has recorded them) but makes one assumption that turns the entire story. Mr Kass assumes an intimate relationship between Lizzie and Bridget. Ms. Sevigny and Ms. Stewart have excellent chemistry and their scenes together are sensual and honest leading to a fascinating twist. Not only does Mr. Kass put an interesting spin on the story but he infuses it with dialog that stings with relevance today.

           The direction by Craig William Mcneill is subtle and sublime.  The music, sound effects as well as the cinematography all contribute beautifully to the overall look and feel of the film. The attention to detail in the scenery and costumes as well, should not be overlooked.

           "Lizzie" may not be a mainstream film but for a discriminating audience, it delivers in every way. 

Operation:Finale

       A fascinating, historical drama based on the true story of how Israeli agents captured SS Officer Adolf Eichmann, who had escaped to Argentina after World War Two. The film stars Sir Ben Kingsley as Eichmann and Oscar Isaac as Peter Malkin, the agent whose memoir, "Eichmann in my Hands" served as a leading piece of source material.

        The film has a few genuine moments of suspense as the plot unfolds and late in the capture, with authorities closing in before the Israelis can get Eichmann out of Argentina. Most of the film centers on the days right after Eichmann is grabbed and brought to a safe house, where his captors must wait longer than expected for their extraction. While not action packed, a psychological game of cat and mouse is played between Eichmann and Malkin and Sir Kingsley and Mr. Isaac are both excellent in their roles.

         The film co-stars Lior Raz (of the terrific Netflix show, "Fauda"), Melanie Laurent, Nick Kroll and Joe Alwyn. It's a fine cast in a strong period drama of historical importance. Eichmann eventually did end up in Israel where he stood trial for his war crimes. The film doesn't focus on the trial but rather the capture, however, for those who don't know the history, there is no doubt as to the outcome. Be warned that there is recreated and actual footage of war atrocities throughout the film that many will find hard to watch.

             Films like these serve as a reminder to never forget what racism and hatred can lead to and to also remind us that atrocities like the holocaust continue today in countries all over the world.

The Wife

     Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce star in this serious domestic drama. They play Joe and Joan Castleman, he, a successful writer traveling to Stockholm to receive the Nobel prize in Literature and she, his wife of many years, who has lived in the shadow of his success. The film is a master class in acting from both leads but it is truly a tour de force from Ms. Close. It is a crowning achievement in an illustrious career.  

      Flashbacks reveal how the couple met and eventually married. The young Joan is played by Annie Starke (Ms. Close real life daughter) and Joe is played by Harry Lloyd. They capture the nuances of their older selves perfectly. The film also co-stars Christian Slater as an ambitious writer mildly obsessed with the Castleman's and Max Irons and Alix Wilton Regan as their adult children.

      It is a powerful story of a marriage gone asunder when the cracks of Joan's repressed feelings rise to the surface and things begin to unravel during their time in Stockholm. Ms. Close and Mr. Pryce verbally spar on the order of a delicate fencing match and it is a pleasure to watch them as they disappear into these fascinating characters. I would think Ms. Close is a lock for an Oscar nomination, very possibly Mr. Pryce as well. 

Crazy Rich Asians

     Wonderful production values can't save this bland, generic romantic comedy. If "Rom-Coms" are your thing, you will probably enjoy the film but only its Asian cast and amazing Singapore location set it apart from every other film in the genre.

      NYU Economics professor, Rachel Chu travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick Young to attend his friend's wedding. Only then does she discovers Nick is actually incredibly wealthy and comes from a world she knows nothing about and has never experienced. Comedic chaos ensues as Rachel learns to navigate the waters of Nick's rich family and friends. 

      What does keep things interesting are the beautiful locations and colorful visuals. The cast is appealing enough, attractive as well but hampered by insipid dialog and either over the top or lifeless acting. Constance Wu plays Rachel, the economics professor who apparently leaves her brain behind in New York when she travels to Singapore. Nick is played by Henry Golding, a handsome actor who tries hard but seems to do his best work when his shirt is off. Co-starring is Michelle Yeoh, who brings some class to the role of Nick's disapproving mother. Other notable co-stars include Ken Jeong, Gemma Chan, Jimmy O. Yang, and Akwafina as Goh Peik Lin, Rachel's college friend and the film's "comic relief".

Praised for its Asian casting, the script is unfortunately filled with stereotypes but probably does represent an accurate picture of how the wealthy, of any ethnic background, might exist in their own exclusive universe. I'll pass on the inevitable sequel and save my money instead, to one day buy a ticket to Singapore. 

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.