Month: December 2020

Movie 1: The Midnight Sky

This film was thought provoking and intriguing. It was also tedious and apocalyptic. That said, the film deserves a watch. Be patient and forgiving and go along for the ride. It’s not a bad way to spend a couple of hours.

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Movie 2: After We Collided

If you are in the mood for a little romance, this might be worth your time. Otherwise, it might make sense to seek some other form of entertainment. That said…it bears disclosure that we are not the targeted audience.

That also said…if you are interested in post hot yoga shower sex or similar activities… We decided it was cringe worthy at best. We found it worthy of a glass of wine but that’s about it.

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Movie 3: The Professor and the Madman

Now this film is worthy of some serious contemplation! It’s intelligent, based on true events about the creation of the English Oxford dictionary, with a great cast including Mel Gibson, Sean Penn and dozens of others. It’s a biographical drama that should not be missed.

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Movie 1: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

This exceptional film is set in 1927 Chicago. This remake of a Broadway production is the story about a tough soulful blues singer who carves out a career during very difficult times and conditions. Viola Davis morphs into the character. It’s astonishing! Oscar material!! Don’t miss it.

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Movie 2: The Beast (La Belva)

This is a unique Italian film. It is focused on a special forces veteran who comes out of retirement to protect his daughter from kidnapers. It’s tough to watch but well worth the time. It’s quite violent at times but there are also moments of caring. It was dubbed in English from Italian.

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Movie 3: The Life Ahead

Here’s a very unique film staring Sophia Loren! It’s the story about love and tolerance of an aging Holocaust survivor and a young Senegal immigrant. It’s been described as a fitting tour de force achievement for Ms. Loren. We agree.

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Movie 1: Triple 9

Well…it’s quite the wild ride. It’s an energetic bank robbery filled with lots of action and a lame plot. All action, very little substance.

The screenplay simply does not translate to the big screen! Pun intended…

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Movie 2: Rust Creek

This fascinating film is based on a true story. That’s what makes it interesting. A college student gets lost in remote Appalachian Kentucky. The local authorities are not what they seem and the bad guys have mixed intentions.

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Movie 3: Ghosts of War

Haunted mansion! Yup! Believable…nope! Crazy Nazis. Crazier spirits abound! Unless you are serious Sci/Fi fans we suggest skipping this one.

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Movie 4: Canvas

This animated short film (9 minutes) is simply spectacular! Do not miss it if at all possible.

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Movie 1 Title: Ava

Oh my! Where to begin. It’s an intriguing thriller! It boasts a good cast: Jessica Chastain, Colin Farrell, John Malkovich and Gena Davis. Yes, it’s less than perfect and the storyline bobbles around a bit too much. But…its energy and hutzpah is worth the watch.

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Movie 2 Title: Jingle Jangle

What a delightful film. It’s a charming Christmas story with positive messages. Its story is appropriate for most age groups but it might be a bit much for young children as it runs a full two hours. The costumes, sets and cinematography are gorgeous.

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Movie 3 Title: The Prom

Here’s another charming, entertaining film packed with soundbites that are current, often hilarious and thought provoking. The story and production are a blast to watch. Occasionally challenging but well worth your time.

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Movie 1: The 12th Man

This fascinating movie is based on real events about 12 resistance fighters in Norway during the end of World War II. It’s a riveting story about espionage and survival. It’s unique, often beautiful but also sometimes difficult to watch. A must watch for history buffs. Norwegian and German with English subtitles.

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Movie 2: Mosul

This Netflix film is laser focused on the last days of the Isis attempt to conquer Iraq. Overall, it’s a mixed bag. Often confusing, intense and difficult to absorb. It’s also revealing, destructive and quite overwhelming. Arabic with English subtitles.

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Movie 3: Hillbilly Elegy

This is a fascinating and riveting film about three generations of a family’s life set in rural Kentucky and Ohio. It boasts a great cast including Glen Close, Amy Adams along with dozens of others.

It’s based on the bestselling book by the same name. It can be difficult to watch at times and occasionally overwhelming but the excellent acting compensates.

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