We are still catching up on movies. It is no small task given the looming holiday season and the plethora of new releases. We were pleased to see so many earlier released films still in the theaters. And when have you seen us post 3 four globe movies?! Plenty of Oscar worthy material here.
Enjoy! J&J
The Accountant
Ben Affleck delivers a powerful performance as a clandestine accountant to the rich and poor. His character was born with a high functioning autism, raised by his tough-as-nails father, and lives just steps ahead of danger and the authorities.
That said, reviews have not been overly complimentary. Overall, the comments could be characterized as unremarkable. That seems overly harsh to my thinking. I found it fresh, inventive, intelligent, compelling and believable.
The acting is quite good in my opinion. Co-starring Anna Kendrick, and J. K. Simmons and cameo performances by John Lithgow and Jeffrey Tambor.
Listed as a Crime/Drama. It runs 2 hours, 8 minutes. It is rated R for violence and language. It is pretty intense and may not be suitable for young children.
Rating 
Arrival
Here is a smart, intelligent Sci-Fi movie where 12 alien space ships park themselves around the planet to engage mankind in delivering a message. It is based on Ted Chang’s “Story of Your Life“.
On one hand this is eerie and puzzling. On the other hand it is intimate and thought provoking. I am not sure why Director Denis Villeneuve decided to beef up the military aspect of the story. Box office draw? Reality check?
The acting was very good. Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner take the leads along with Forest Whitaker. The cinematography and special effects were exceptional. Ultimately, the story was thought provoking.
Rated PG13 as a Mystery Science story. Run time is 1 hour 58 minutes.
Rating
Hacksaw Ridge
Wow! This film is a compelling look at war in WWII Okinawa. It is the true story of Desmond Doss, a pacifist that wanted to serve his country. It is also one of the most authentic looks at the horrific reality of war at the time.
It is counter balanced by a look at rural America of the day and the social dynamics at play. A love story threads its way throughout the storytelling adding a contrast to death and destruction.
Andrew Garfield and Teresa Palmer take the leading roles. Vince Vaughn, Sam Worthington and Luke Pegler highlight many other actors.
Directed by Mel Gibson, filmed in Australia. Rated R for violence. Labeled: Drama/Action with an exhausting 2 hours, 18 minutes. Do not miss the real footage at the end of the film.
Rating
Glad to see you back reviewing movies! I’ve missed your commentary and reviews. Looking forward to seeing “Arrival”. I was wondering about Hacksaw Ridge, though. You said it was an authentic look at war…is it horrifying? As in…could I eat something while watching it?
Hi Karen, I totally missed your comment. Big apology! NO, I would suggest NOT eating anything before seeing this movie. It was one of the most horrific reenactments of war I have ever seen. Remember the first few minutes of Saving Private Ryan? The war sequence in Hacksaw Ridge makes Private Ryan seem like child’s play. John says, NO popcorn!
Great to have you back and reviewing films for all of us.
thanks,
Stuart