The Ballad of Buster Scruggs

         Ye haw, the Coen Brothers are back and, in true fashion, continue to take fresh looks at different genres. For this feature, we get six authentic stories of the old west but only as the Coen Brothers can tell them.

              Claimed to be originally written for an Netflix anthology series, the film was ultimately released as a full length feature.  The stories are unrelated but contain similar themes. They are, at once, fun, suspenseful, serious, labored, humorous, boring and consistently a bit strange.  Always with a twist, the film is almost an old west version of "Black Mirror", the futuristic, unexpected anthology on Netflix. To review the film as a whole is difficult.

              The first tale is the title story starring Tim Blake Nelson as a guitar slinging, singing cowboy with a fast draw. It is definitely one of the best and a great story to begin the film. The second story stars James Franco as a bank robber who finds himself in a familiar yet surprising situation. "Meal Ticket" is the third tale starring Liam Neeson and of the six stories is probably the most bizarre. Tom Waits stars in the fourth tale and it is the only unoriginal story in the film. It is based on a story by Jack London. Mr. Waits is terrific and this is one of the best tales in the anthology. Story number five is "The Girl Who Got Rattled" and stars Zoe Kazan. This one takes a very long time to get to it's surprising end. And the last tale, "The Mortal Remains" seems to have no plot at all, just the interesting ramblings of  five distinct passengers in a stagecoach. This one features Tyne Daly, Brendan Gleeson, Saul Rubinek, Chelcie Ross, and Jonjo O'Neill.

               The acting is excellent as the casting is perfect and what you have come to expect from the Coen Brothers. The stories are very authentic in visual style, dialog and location.  The brothers are masterful filmmakers but the pace and story lines aren't always perfect and the film drags on once too often.  As it turns out, Netflix is probably the best way to view the film. If you don't like a particular story, you can fast forward to the next one or if you like, return to a favorite. On the big screen, what you appreciate the most is the cinematography, which is wonderful and breathtaking at times.

Creed II

           With a screenplay co-written by Sylvester Stallone, and based on the characters from the previous film, you pretty much know what to expect from this sequel. The film once again stars Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa, the young Creed's mentor and trainer, and Tessa Thompson as Bianca, Creed's love interest from the first film. Co-starring are Wood Harris, Russell Hornsby, and Phylicia Rashard as Adonis's mother. There are also a few surprise cast members, which I won't spoil by revealing here.

           Mr. Stallone keeps the Rocky story connection by re-introducing Ivan Drago, the Russian boxer who killed Apollo in "Rocky 4" and Drago's son, Viktor, who naturally is set up to fight Adonis to reclaim his family's honor. Ivan is again played by Dolph Lundgren and Viktor is played by Florian Munteanu. The father/son theme is pretty obvious influencing all the male characters and runs throughout the film. 

            The fight sequences are well done but between bouts, the story leans towards melodrama. It's only a matter of time, however, for that familar theme music to rise up during the inevitable training sequence, leading up to the final brawl. Mr. Jordan is in incredible shape and will certainly please his growing number of fans. Mr. Stallone has basically rewritten his Rocky role as the new "Mickey" (Burgess Meredith from the original films) but he takes on the supporting role with charm and grace.

            Don't expect the thrill of the original "Rocky" or the fight sequences of "Raging Bull" but if you have come to love these characters (and who doesn't after eight films?),  you will feel right at home as the next generation continues the iconic series.

The Favourite

        This new film from director Yorgos Lanthimos is a historical comedy/drama based on the reign of Queen Anne in 17th century England. It stars Olivia Coleman as Queen Anne, Rachel Weisz as Sarah Churchill, the Queen's confidant and lover, and Emma Stone as Abigail Hill, Sarah's cousin, who ends up competing for the Queen's favor. Also co-starring are Nicholas Hoult, Joe Alwyn, and Robbie Ryan.

         All three women are superb in their lead roles with the men playing the secondary characters in this female driven story. Based on actual events, the script is filled with acid wit and sharp barbs. It's a war of words played out in the Queen's court and in her bed chamber. The film is a continuous game of backstabbing and power plays to be the Queen's favourite.

         The sets and costumes are outstanding. The musical score is wonderful and purposely jarring at times. Mr. Lanthimos's directing style has an unusual rhythm all it's own and serves the story well. He brings out the best in his leading ladies as they manipulate and jockey for position. It is a comedy of ill manners wrapped in a period drama that is quite the entertainment.

Green Book

     Inspired by a true story, this is a immensely likable comedy/drama about a very unusual friendship that develops between an Italian "bouncer" from the Bronx and lauded pianist Don Shirley. The film stars Viggo Mortensen as Tony (Tony Lip) Vallelonga and Mahershala Ali as Dr. Don Shirley.

    When Dr. Shirley hires Tony to be his driver on a tour through the deep south in 1962, two men who couldn't be any different, learn life lessons from each other and end up better for it.

     The film is directed by Peter Farrelly, who also co-wrote the script with Tony's son Nick Vallelonga and Brian Hayes Currie. Mr. Farrelly is best known for his broad comedies but here shows true depth of emotion and a deft touch with subject matter that grows heavier as the film goes on. The relationship between the two men certainly starts out uneasy as Dr. Shirley's reserved and refined nature clashes with the larger than life Tony. But as the film progresses, despite many cliches, something magical happens and it is heartwarming and joyous to watch.

         I can't think of another film this year that has better chemistry between it's two leads.  They are absolute perfection and both must be recognized come Oscar time (as well as the film itself). The film also co-stars Linda Cardellini as Tony's wife Dolores, who, without much screen time, still delivers a heartwarming performance.

       While a period film, it's depiction of class division and race relations are as relevant today as they were in the '60's. And while that's a sad comment on America, the story of the friendship that develops between these two men shows how people can change and offers hope for the future.

       This is easily one of the best films of the year.

Widows

     Reinventing the "Heist" film, director and co-writer (along with Gillian Flynn) Steve McQueen continuously surprises us with this enjoyable crime thriller. It is based on Lynda La Plante's original 1986 British TV series.

     The film stars Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, and Carrie Coon as the widows of thieves killed in a robbery who must finish the job their husbands started. It co-stars Cynthia Erivo, who joins their gang as their driver, Colin Farrell and Robert Duvall as father and son corrupt politicians, Brian Tyree Henry, Daniel Kaluuya, Jackie Weaver, , Lukas Haas, and Liam Neeson. It's a terrific cast with standout performances from Elizabeth Debicki as the underestimated member of the "gang" and Daniel Kaluuya as a very menacing criminal enforcer.

      It is a complex film that addresses dirty politics, class struggle, race and female empowerment. And then there's "the heist", which is almost secondary to the story of these women. This is no light hearted "Ocean's 8" but a far more serious look at what motivates the actions of these characters. While serious in tone, it's still an action thriller and fun to watch although it helps to not be critical of the plot holes and easy fixes that occur throughout the film. The few issues I had with the script can be forgiven since Mr. McQueen and his actors work so hard to entertain and enlighten the audience. Mr. McQueen's interesting choice of camera work in many scenes also serves to freshen the way the film is viewed. 

     You might go for the heist but you'll stay for the depth of the clever and deceptive plot. 

Boy Erased

            Based on the memoir by Garrard Conley, this power drama recounts Mr. Conley's time in Conversion Therapy. The screenplay and direction is by actor Joel Edgerton, who also plays the conversion therapist, Victor Sykes.

            The film stars Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe as Nancy and Marshall Eamons, the parents of Jared Eamons (based on Mr. Conley). The real star of the film, however, is Lucas Hedges who plays Jared. Mr. Hedges is one of the finest actors of his generation and once again, brings amazing grace and strength to a serious role. 

            As the film begins, Jared enters conversion therapy excited and hopeful as he believes the work can help him sort out his feelings and confusion about homosexuality. Coming from a strong religious background, he doesn't want to hurt or disappoint his parents but he comes to realize that conversion therapy will do nothing for him and that he must be honest with himself about his own sexuality.

             The interaction of the three leads is heartbreaking and Jared's time in "therapy" is maddening but yet, the film ends on a hopeful note that healing has begun. Mr. Edgerton's script gives everyone a chance for some very powerful moments but the film really belongs to Mr. Hedges.  

             Conversion Therapy is very real in many parts of our country. The film's epilogue shares photos of the real Mr. Conley and his family as well as startling statistics about the "therapy".

A Private War

   Based on the true story of war corespondent, Marie Colvin, this is a glimpse into a life most of us can't even imagine. It is a riveting, somber look at the journalists and photographers that put their lives at risk, on the front lines of war, all over the globe. 

   Ms. Colvin is portrayed by Rosamund Pike, doing the finest work of her career. It is a defining starring role for her and I hope she is recognized by this year's Oscar committee.  Her co-stars include Jamie Dornan as Paul Conroy, her photographer, Tom Hollander as Sean Ryan, the Sunday Times foreign editor, and Stanley Tucci as her love interest back home.

    The film pays tribute to these real life men and women in recreating Ms. Colvin's time in various conflicts overseas. Directed by Matthew Heineman, the film is an immersive look at the casualties of war and his camera never wavers from the horror of innocent deaths or the impact it has on the people reporting their stories. An epilogue reminds us of the sobering statistics of lives lost in Syria alone.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

     The second in the new series of films from Harry Potter author, J.K. Rowling, builds upon the characters and story  from the original "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them". Eddie Redmayne returns as wizard Newt Scamander along with Dan Fogler as Jacob, his muggle friend, Katherine Waterston as Tina Goldstein, and Alison Sudol as her sister Queenie. Zoe Kravitz also costars as Leta Lestrange.

     This time around the action takes place in England and France and draws us into a more complex story involving a young Albus Dumbledore, played by a charming Jude Law and the wizard criminal, Gellert Grindelwald, played by Johnny Depp. Once friends and now at opposite means, the two wizards have sworn an oath not to kill each other so Dumbledore enlists Newt's help in stopping Grindelwald from taking over both the muggle and wizard worlds. Mr. Depp is in fine form as the evil wizard, restrained from the actions of many of his more outrageous characters.

     Grindelwald needs the help of a mysterious character, Credence Barebone, played by Ezra Miller, for his plans to succeed. Much of the film revolves around the search for Credence. For this story, the characters are darker and so is the tone of the film. There are still some adorable magical creatures as well as some nasty ones and the special effects are excellent but there is a definite foreboding that lingers over the whole affair.

     Since this is a series of five planned films, the end leaves us with a surprise cliffhanger but it's still a fun ride.

The Girl in The Spider's Web

       Lisbeth Salander returns in this new film based on the characters created by Stieg Larssen. Taking over the role previously played by Noomi Rapace and Rooney Mara is Claire Foy, who tries hard to make the character her own. Personally I'm a big fan of Noomi Rapace, who I think really captured the character in the original Swedish trio of films.

        Ms. Foy brings an icy cool to the role but comes across as a "good girl" trying to look and act "bad". Her chemistry with Mikael Bloomkvist, this time played by Sverrir Gudnason, is nowhere as strong as it was in the previous films. Blame the screenwriters for underwriting the character. The screenplay is credited to three writers, based on the book written by David Lagercrantz , based on characters created by Mr. Larssen. It's a case of too many people trying too hard to retain the sense of the original characters, who are too removed here from the source material. The novel worked well enough continuing the original characters but the film muddies the story and characters. 

                The film co-stars LaKeith Stanfield as an NSA agent tracking Salander,  Sylvia Hoeks as Camilla Salander  and Stephen Merchant as Franz Balder, the scientist who sets the plot in motion. A plot, I have to point out, closely resembling "Skyfall", the James Bond film. It's a nice change of pace role for Mr. Stanfield, playing here very against type. Mr. Merchant, known primarily for comedy, also goes against type as the serious minded scientist.

                 The film is directed by Fede Alvarez (also one of the co-writers) and I guess it's an unwritten rule that films set in Sweden must be shot with low lighting and icy blue hues. As a stand alone film, it's not a terrible crime thriller but compared to the earlier films in the series, it's very disappointing.

Outlaw King

    Basically picking up from the end of "Braveheart" (the story of William Wallace), this film is based on the life of Robert the Bruce, who in the 1300's successfully freed Scotland from the British.  Chris Pine stars as Robert and while his accent tends to waver a bit, he makes a fine Scottish King (and much has been made of his VERY brief, full frontal nudity scene).

                As co-written and directed by David MacKenzie, the film is a series of battles that lead up to the ultimate battle that turns the tide against the British. There is little time for the sub-plot love story between Robert and Elizabeth, Edward's goddaughter. Blood and mud are the constants throughout. The battle scenes are very realistic and it's hard to believe horses were not harmed in the making of the film.

               Co-starring are Stephen Dillane  as Edward, King of England, Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Lord Douglas, and Florence Pugh as Elizabeth. And of course, a "cast of thousands" of foot soldiers most of whom are sacrificed on the battlefield.

                The film doesn't quite have the gravitas or the scope of "Braveheart" but it still makes for a solid historical adventure.

Bohemian Rhapsody

               Is this just real life or is it just fantasy? Well, I think it's mostly real with some poetic license thrown in as we watch a capsulized version of the life of Freddie Mercury and the birth of Queen. Freddie propelled the band Queen into a super group with hit after hit starring Freddie himself, a larger than life character.  The film captures it all.

              Melodramatic at times and paper thin plot wise, what makes the film work is the virtually transformation of actor Rami Malek into Freddie Mercury. Mr. Malek nails the part perfectly with every mannerism and movement. The recreation of Queen's hits are the best thing about the film and the concert footage is just incredible, highlighted of course by the band's performance at "Live Aid" in 1985.

              Gwilym Lee plays Brian May, Queen's lead guitarist and the resemblance is remarkable. The same is true for Ben Hardy as drummer Roger Taylor and Joseph Mazzello as bassist John Deacon. The film also features Lucy Boynton as Mary Austin, Aiden Gillian as Jon Reid, Tom Hollander as Jim Beach, and Allen Leech as Paul Prenter. There is also a cameo by Mike Myers. And a special mention should go to the prosthetics department who created Mr. Malek's fake teeth. They are a character to themselves.

                Freddie's life, as most celebrities, has been overexposed through the years and the film does it's best in two and a half hours to cover the triumphs and the tragedies of a life cut short by a horrific disease. Heartbreaking at times, the film is still tremendously entertaining for any fan of Queen...and who isn't?

Wildlife

           A domestic drama starring Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal, featuring a breakout performance by Ed Oxenbould as their 14 year old son, Joe. The film takes place in 1960, in Montana. Jeanette and Jerry are having trouble making ends meet and when Jerry leaves to take a low paying job fighting forest fires, Jeanette's life is upended.

           First time director and co-writer of the screenplay, actor Paul Dano plays it conservative with point and shoot direction but does elicit fine acting from his cast . He tells the story from young Joe's point of view and there are plenty of closeups to reinforce the notion, in case we don't realize it. Joe watches as his parent's marriage balances on the edge and Mr. Oxenbould is just remarkable as Joe. Ms. Mulligan too, gives a wonderful performance with body language that speaks volumes defining a wife and mother at a critical juncture in her life. Mr. Gyllenhaal is excellent as usual but once he goes off to fight fires, his screen time is diminished. The film really belongs to Ms. Mulligan and Mr. Oxenbould. Reliable character actor Bill Camp rounds out the cast.

             The cinematography is first rate, with Mr. Dano making good use of light and scenery. The story goes off in an unusual direction thanks to Jeanette's decisions once Jerry leaves but comes back to a satisfying ending that belongs to Mr. Oxenbould. A quiet but strong adult drama.

The Sisters Brothers

      An unconventional western from acclaimed French director and co-writer Jacques Audiard.  John C. Reilly and Joaquin Phoenix play Eli and Charlie Sisters, ruthless gunfights that work for a shadowy figure known as the Commodore. The plot is fairly simply. They are tasked with tracking down Hermann Warm, a chemist, who has a formula for easily extracting gold from river beds. Working with them is John  Morris, a scout who also works for the commodore. Warm is played by RIz Ahmed and Morris by Jake Gyllenhaal. 

       What appears to be a fairly straight forward western, plays more like a independent foreign film. It is less about plot and far more character driven, especially the relationship between the brothers. The four leads are excellent but it's Mr. Phoenix and Mr. Reilly's interplay that truly carry the film. In fact, I would go as far to say, it's one of Mr. Reilly's best films.

         The cinematography is wonderful. Shoot outs are filmed in unusual ways and the scenery is spectacular.  The film moves at a leisurely pace as the brothers track down Warm and Morris and takes some surprising twists along the way. The film may catch you off guard at the start but will win you over by Journey's end.

First Man

        Brilliant cinematography and special effects come together in director Damien Chazelle's new film, to create the most realistic depiction of early space travel we've ever seen. Mr. Chazelle and his screenwriter, Josh Singer have made a remarkable film based on the life of Neil Armstrong and Nasa's quest to be the first to set foot on the moon.

         Mr. Singer's screenplay is based on the authorized biography of Neil Armstrong by James R. Hansen and the film's attention to detail is perfect. Mr. Chazelle puts the audience aboard the X-15 and the Gemini and Apollo rockets right alongside Mr. Armstrong and his fellow astronauts. You feel every thrust of the rockets, the spin of the capsule, and the claustrophobia of the tiny space where these true heroes risked their lives to beat the Russians to the moon.

           And as good as technical aspects of the film are, you won't forget the performances either, anchored by the terrific Ryan Gosling as Armstrong and Claire Foy as his wife, Janet. A moment that defines Mr. Armstrong early in the film gives Mr. Gosling a chance to show more depth than any of his previous roles. His resolve and determination to get the job done, while haunted by the past, is a side of the man most never knew.  The scenes away from work are intimate and very human and they counter the crazed world of riding a rocket into space. 

              The film is filled with terrific co-stars including Kyle Chandler, Lukas Haas, Ethan Embry, Jason Clarke, Patrick Fugit, Shea Whigham, Ciaran Hinds, Brian D'Arcy James, Pablo Schreiber and Christopher Abbott.

              Mr. Chazelle leaves little out of the story showing us all the triumph and well as the tragedy leading to that defining moment of "One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind". It is a stirring, emotional ride that goes beyond the history.

A Star is Born

               Bradley Cooper's directorial debut is a winner. This is a story that has been told multiple times in Hollywood but with the brilliant casting choice of Lady Gaga, this version takes on a real intimacy that Mr. Cooper takes full advantage of as a director.

                Casting himself as Jackson Maine, the superstar musician whose light is fading, Mr. Cooper does some of his best acting. Directing Lady Gaga as Ally, the unknown singer he discovers and is propelled into the limelight, he has found his muse in more ways than one. Ally's story could easily parallel Lady Gaga's and the singer, stripped of her bigger than life persona, really shines in the role. She pours her heart out in every scene, letting the audience see the girl behind the character and comes across incredibly genuine. Mr. Cooper has obviously studied Kris Kristofferson's character from the previous version and throws in a bit of Jeff Bridges from "Crazy Heart" to flesh out the character of Jackson. The chemistry of the two leads is heartbreakingly real and holds the story together.

                You can feel how personal this film is to Mr. Bradley as a director. He has emerged as a real filmmaker. You can see the details in every shot and feel all the emotion. He makes subtle points throughout such as blurring the audience when Jackson performs but shown clearly when Ally sings. His disconnection to his fans and her connection couldn't be more obvious. 

                  The plot is fairly blueprint and not that exciting but for this film, it's the performances that matter and they are terrific. Co-starring is Andrew "Dice" Clay as Ally's father and he continues to surprise as an actor. Also featured are Sam Elliot as Jackson's older Brother Bobby,  Anthony Ramos as Ally's best friend and Rafi Gavron as Ally's manager. The film also features a cameo by Dave Chappelle as an old friend of Jackson's in a scene that I found to be extraneous.

                   The film runs over two hours and probably could have been shorter without losing any of its strength but I'm sure fans of Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper certainly won't complain about the running time. The songs are good and performed very well by both leads and their excellent backup band but nothing really stands out like "Evergreen" from the Barbra Streisand version.

                    I wasn't sure what to expect from this new version but was blown away by the performances and surprised by the direction. The story itself remains mediocre but credit the screenwriters, Eric Roth, Will Fetters, and Mr. Cooper for their attempts at infusing new elements to a story as old as time.

A Simple Favor

         Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively shine in this fun, sexy, mystery. Playing moms who couldn't be more different, they form an unlikely friendship that leads to something much more when Ms. Lively's character Emily disappears from their quiet Connecticut town.

         Directed by Paul Feig and based on the popular novel, the film is lighthearted fun but has dark twists and turns that Mr. Feig balances beautifully. The film co-stars Henry Golding as Emily's husband Sean and also features Andrew Rannells, Linda Cardellini, Bashir Salahuddin, Rupert Friend and Jean Smart.

         Fans of "Big Little Lies" and that genre will love this film. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. It sneaks up on you and  ventures into unexpected directions. Ms. Kendrick and Ms. Lively are so perfect, it's a pleasure to watch them together even as things get nasty.

Venom

      Based on the Marvel comic, "Venom" is a schizoid mess of a movie. Much like the character himself, who can be both villain and hero, the film tries to balance itself between a light and serious tone. What it does successfully though, is capture the spirit of the Venom/Eddie Brock relationship forged in the comic. This film is strictly for those comic fans.

       Tom Hardy plays Eddie Brock, an investigative journalist who accidently becomes bonded with a space alien thus creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. As with many "origin" films, the story takes a long time to develop but once Eddie and Venom bond, mayhem ensues.  Mr. Hardy is a good chose to play Eddie but his attempts at humor fall flat. Michele Williams plays the love interest and she's an interesting choice since she is better known for far more serious films. She does, however, look like she's having fun especially in the second half of the film. Riz Ahmed plays Carlton Drake, the billionaire villain responsible for bringing the alien symbiote to earth. There is very little character development but the interplay between Eddie and Venom is interesting enough to see how it all plays out.

        This film is a collaboration between Marvel Studios and Sony, so there is no Spiderman, which is a shame as Venom is originally one of Spiderman's greatest foes. It would have been far more of an interesting story even if it was just a cameo. A sequel is set up in the post credits ( you may want to stay for that extra scene) so maybe Spiderman will make an appearance in the next one (should it ever get actually made). 

          Venom is known for violence in the comics and fans looking for that aspect will be disappointed. The studio insisted on a PG-13 rating so it is watered down from what would have been far different R rated film. The CGI to create Venom is inconsistent, quite good at times and sloppy at others.

           If you are familiar with Venom, you will probably want to see this, otherwise you'll be better off passing on this one.

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.