May December, Priscilla, Leave the World Behind

Movie 1: May December

Natalie Portman is an actress studying the real life of a character she is about to portray in a movie. She is looking for this inspiration from Julianne Moore who years earlier was arrested for having an affair with a minor who she later marries. This movie has the look, feel and acting of a much better movie than it is. It ends up being a confusing world of ugliness and lies. It’s a disappointment given the caliber of actors involved. (We should note, however, that many national critics give this movie four globes.) It was in theaters, currently on Netflix.

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Movie 2: Priscilla

This movie is based on the memoir “Elvis and Me” by Priscilla Presley. We found it a fascinating and very well made peek into the lives of the famous couple, starting with Priscilla’s teenage years. Sofia Coppola does a very good job of writing and directing a somewhat toxic love story.

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Movie 3: Leave The World Behind

Why this dramatic thriller and quasi-Syfy has not gotten more press and a wider theater release we have no idea. We found it fascinating from beginning to end. A family vacation on Long Island is interrupted by world events difficult to explain. This group of A list actors is superb. Limited theatrical release now but on Netflix later this month. Try and see this one.

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