Movies: Reminiscence, The Protege, The Lost Leonardo

Movie 1: Reminiscence

This most unusual film seems to showcase a wide range of genres: sex, drugs, strong language, violence, and mystery. Critics are all over the board trying to make sense of it all. It’s a neo-noir thriller which we thoroughly enjoyed.

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Movie 2: The Protege

Don’t miss this one if you are in the mood for a bit more bad language, creative slaughtering and brief nudity. The leading lady is an assassin. Another film just under 2 hours. Nonetheless it’s intriguing and unique. Samuel L. Jackson is always fun.

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Movie 3: The Lost Leonardo

This is a fascinating insider documentary based on real events. It’s ultimately a global topic of power, politics and greed. It’s also quite intriguing! There is no shortage of opinions, expense, and mystery.

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Movies: Respect, Flag Day, Free Guy

Movie 1: Respect

If you are a fan of Aretha Franklin, this is a NOT TO BE MISSED film! It covers most of her career and many of her challenges and barriers in life, good, bad and quite a bit more. Jennifer Hudson practically morphs into Aretha! DO NOT MISS IT!!

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Movie 2: Flag Day

Based on true events, this drama, thriller, mystery is simply remarkable film making. Sean Penn is both the director and actor along with his daughter Dylan Penn. Some critics have not been kind to this film. We felt it was one of the best father/daughter films in a while. Dylan Penn makes a stunning debut. Do see it!

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Movie 3: Free Guy

We didn’t have high expectations for this video game film. It turned out to be a clever, funny movie. It was quite inventive with unique concepts. The critics get picky about a few petty ideas, pay no attention. We found it fresh and enjoyable.

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Movies: The Vault, Nine Days, Annette

Movie 1: The Vault

If you are in the mood for an Action, Drama, Mystery, Crime Thriller, don’t miss this movie! It’s set in Spain during the World Cup. It’s quite an interesting concept with clever characters and several unique scenes. Available on Netflix.

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Movie 2: Nine Days

This Drama, Fantasy is quite unusual in concept. Five unborn souls compete to see which one is chosen to be given life on Earth. (You won’t see that concept very often!) All in all a very confusing 2 hours.

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Movie 3: Annette

Comedian (Adam Driver) meets Opera Star (Marion Cotillard) who become a loving couple. It’s an interesting concept once their first child is born. Some nudity, language and a few surprises. Great cast, but it just didn’t work for us. 2 hour, 20 minute run time seems much longer.

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Movies: Swan Song, Suicide Squad, Coda

Movie 1: Swan Song

This is a unique film about a retired hairdresser featuring a best performance by the German character actor Udo Kier. It’s charming, witty, uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time. Ultimately uplifting.

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Movie 2: Suicide Squad

One critic characterized this film as an irreverent comedy. Others described it as a rollercoaster without brakes. Others claim it’s the best superhero film in years! We felt it was an over the top super villain film that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

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Movie 3: Coda

What a charming film set in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Ruby is the only hearing member in a family struggling to save the family fishing business. Sometimes quite funny, occasionally heartbreaking, ultimately uplifting. English subtitles throughout.

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Movies: Snake Eyes, The Green Night, Casanova Last Love

Movie 1: Snake Eyes

This film, the beginning of the G.I. Joe franchise, is sure to satisfy martial art fans. It’s entertaining, action packed, with a ‘behind the scenes’ quality to it. We were surprised to learn there was a “mid credit scene” that garnered big kudos from viewers and critics. Be prepared for the 2 hour run time!

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Movie 2: The Green Night

Oh my…where to begin?! One critic called this one of the most memorable films of the year sighting the “swirl of masculinity” as a key element in the production. All that said…it wasn’t terrible, just laborious. Overall, more than a bit disappointing for such an elaborate production.

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Movie 3: Casanova Last Love

This was both an intriguing and frustrating view of the infamous French philanderer. This film takes place mostly in 18th century London. In this production Casanova is 74 years old who enjoys gambling and the company of young ladies. Overall, disappointing! French with English subtitles.

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Movies: Old, Joe Bell, Jungle Cruise

Movie 1: Old

This thriller is about a family on a secluded tropical beach vacation. It’s the latest film by M. Night Shayamalan. It’s not very intelligent science fiction that’s haunting. Be warned, there is violence, nudity and such.

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Movie 2: Joe Bell

Finally a true story willing to confront audiences with tough real life issues.  Mark Wahlberg delivers a stunning father figure as the bereaved father of his son Joe Bell.  His character decides to journey across the country to protest bullying.  Sad but powerful!

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Movie 3: Jungle Cruise

This latest Disney release is sure to be a crowd pleaser.  It takes the theme park ride to a new level.  Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt are perfectly cast.  It has a great balance of comedy, fantasy and adventure.  The two hour production flies by!

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