The Roses, Caught Stealing, Relay

Movie 1: The Roses

This is a remake of the 1989 movie The War of the Roses.  This is a dark comedy, watching a seemingly very good marriage disintegrate in front of us.  But there is a lot more going on here with this modern approach to the original.  The acting, directing, and especially the writing, are all Oscar caliber.  Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch are perfect as the loving/waring couple.  Beautiful cinematography.  Set in Northern California, it is actually filmed in Devon, England. 

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Movie 2: Caught Stealing

This is an excellently acted, directed and scripted thriller, with lots of twists and turns.  A Brooklyn bar tender, and his girlfriend, get caught up in a Ukrainian/Jewish/Chinese mobster drug and money caper because of a British neighbor.  Director Darren Aronofsky is at the top of his game and Austin Butler continues to impress.  Fun and bloody at the same time.  We will see this one again.

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Movie 3: Relay

This is a fast paced, suspenseful thriller.  A little bit difficult to follow at first, a bribe broker (who knew such a thing existed) works with corrupt companies and corrupt people who try to blackmail them.  Lots of conflicts and deceit all around.  We found it a fascinating movie with really good acting.  Riz Ahmed is very good as the broker. 

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