- The Mule
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-05. Starring and directed by Clint Eastwood, this is a simple and wonderful movie based on the true story of Leo Sharp. Bradley Cooper, Laurence Fishburne, Michael Peña, Dianne Wiest play supporting roles. Very much recommended.
- The Invitation
I finished watching this on netflix on 2019-01-01, after a few stops and starts because it was so creepy. Written by Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi, directed by Karyn Kusama, and released 2015, as I said, it's creepy and scary. The story is about a religious cult which preys (in more ways than one) on those who have lost a loved one. Highly recommended.
- Dead of Winter
I watched this on 2019-01-06 on amazon prime (free). This is directed by Arthur Penn (Little Big Man, Night Moves) and starring Mary Steenburgen, who plays three roles. Excellent Gothic horror. Highly recommended.
- Replicas
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-11. Starring Keanu Reeves, it's a good scifi movie but not great, due to several improbable improbable plot pushing past the scifi premise. Lukewarm recommendation.
- Henry's Crime
I watched this on 2019-01-06 on amazon prime (free). Starring Keanu Reeves, it's a good bank heist movie with a romantic twist, and the theme of Chekov's play "The Cherry Orchard" running through it. I was really surprised how much I enjoyed it. Terrific performance by Vera Farmiga and James Caan is also wonderful. Recommended.
- The Upside
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-15. Starring Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston (with Nicole Kidman in a supporting role), it's a terrific feel-good movie with excellent acting, writing, direction (by Neil Burger, probably his best film to date) and story premise. This film will be a classic. Highly recommended.
- Glass
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-19. Starring Samuel L Jackson, James McAvoy, Bruce Willis, it is a continuation of Unbreakable and Split. While not as good as Unbreakable, it is good. Some of the plot elements, even in this superhero world, seem implausable and took me out of the story a few times. Still, recommended.
- Destroyer
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-20. Starring Nicole Kidman, this is a story of a bad cop trying to fix the mistakes she's made in life. The coolest thing about this movie is the twist at the end, a nice narrative device which I don't remember seeing in this way before. Excellent direction by Karyn Kusama. I read the script first and the film follows the script closely. Highly recommended.
- Stan and Ollie
I saw this in the theater on 2019-01-26. Excellent dialog and acting by Steve Coogan (Laurel) and John C. Reilly (Hardy). Highly recommended.
- The Kominski Method (season 1)
I finished watching this on netflix 2019-01-28. Starring Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin, this is a great comedy series by Chuck Lorre. Earlier this month it was announced that the series was renewed, so season 2 is in the works. Very highly recommended.
- The Verdict (1946)
Watched this on dvd on 2019-02-01. This is a mystery/drama directed by Don Siegel and starring Sydney Greenstreet and Peter Lorre. A simple enjoyable mystery, based on Israel Zangwill's 1892 novel The Big Bow Mystery. Recommended.
- They Shall Not Grow Old
I saw this in the theater on 2019-02-02. This is a documentary on WWI by Peter Jackson using original, but restored (mostly colorized), footage and audio from the war. It tells the story of the British infantry invasion, a very bloody and violent one. Highly recommended.
- Isle of Dogs
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-02-02. This is a stop-motion animation by Wes Anderson. Original and sweet-natured adventure. Recommended.
- Cold Pursuit
I saw this in the theater on 2019-02-09. This is a very well-made revenge black-comedy directed by Hans Petter Moland and starring Liam Neeson. It's based on the Norwegian film In Order of Disappearance, also directed by HPM. Neeson's character loses his som to drugs and decides to kill everyone involved. Rewatched this on HBO on 2019-12-21 Highly recommended.
- Incredibles 2
I watched this on netflix 2019-02-09. Fun animated family adventure movie, written and directed by Brad Bird. Highly recommended.
- Fastball
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-02-13. This is a documentary narrated by Kevin Cosner on the fastest recorded pitcher. The documentary film interviews hitters, pitchers and scientists on baseball pitchers and the pitching process. This issue is that different speed-recording methods measure the ball speed at different points along the line form the pitchers mound to home plate. The ball slows down significantly (due to air drag) so these recorded speeds need to be standardized. The scientists do this and find that the fastest (recorded) pitch is due to Nolan Ryan, who threw a pitch at over 108 mph, measured at a point 10 feet from the pitchers mound. Recommended for baseball fans.
- Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-02-14, but I own the dvd and have seen this many times. Written and directed by Shane Black, this is a cleverly written and well-acted film-noirish black comedy. A terrific example of clever set-ups and pay-offs. One of my all-time favs. Very highly recommended.
- Alita: Battle Angel
I saw this in the theater on 2019-02-15. This is a slickly produced live action sci-fi film by James Cameron (as co-writer and producer) and Robert Rodriguez (as director). I enjoyed it, especially the fast-paced action sequences and the excellent acting by Rosa Salazar (who plays Alita). However, it is basically a set-up for part 2, as the story is only partially told. Recommended.
- Friday After Next
I watched this on netflix on 2019-02-16, having already seen and loved the first of the series, Friday. They all are written by and star the extremely talented Ice Cube who gets into trouble in various ways and finds out how to get out of trouble. In this one, he owes rent money for his apartment and has to prevent Damon (Terry Crews) from catching them if they don't pay it. The problem is complicated by the fact that there is a neighborhood robber dressed as Santa who is also stealing their stuff. In the end, they catch the robber and recover their rent money. The jokes are often a bit cliched but still it's a fun film to watch. Recommended.
- Long Kiss Goodnight
Watched this on dvd on 2019-02-20. I've seen this before, probably as a vhs. Written by Shane Black and directed by (Rennie Harlin (then married to star Geena Davis), this is an action black comedy. A good example of clever set-ups and pay-offs. Not as good as Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, but still recommended.
- Green Book
I bought this on amazon prime (streaming) and watched this on 2019-02-20. This is a biographical comedy-drama film on a portion of the life of pianist Don Shirley. Directed by Peter Farrelly, starring Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen (as his driver, "Tony Lip"), it traces the arc of these characters and their understanding and affection for each other. Highly recommended.
- Walt: The Man Behind the Myth
I watched this documentary on netflix on 2019-02-23. Good description of his life and creative efforts, using lots of input from relatives, friends, and co-workers. Recommended.
- Happy Death Day 2U
I saw this in the theaters on 2019-02-28. This is a scifi slasher film with some romcom elements. I liked the science problem-solving aspect to the plot and the way act 3 was paced. Recommended.
- The Last Boy Scout
I watched this on dvd on 2019-02-28. This is an action buddy comedy written by Shane Black and starting Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans. While Tony Scott was an excellent director, IMHO this needed a director with a more comedic touch. Still, very recommended.
- Fences
I watched this on hulu on 2019-03-02. One of the best films. Directed and starring Denzel Washington, with a script by August Wilson, based on his Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Viola Davis won an Oscar for her performance as the wife of the character played by Denzel Washington. Very highly recommended.
- Captain Marvel
I saw this in the theaters on 2019-03-09. This is a scifi superhero adventure starring Brie Larson. It's written by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck and Geneva Robertson-Dworet (in partnership) and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. This is an enjoyable film experience. Highly recommended.
- Won't You Be My Neighbor?
I watched this on amazon prime (free) and watched this on 2019-03-09. This is a biography of Fred Rogers, creator of the long-running PBS children's show. Recommended.
- Maverick
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-03-10. This is a 1994 comedy western, starring Mel Gibson (as Maverick), James Garner, and Jodie Foster, and written by William Goldman. Highly recommended.
- The Notorious Landlady
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-03-14. This is a 1962 comedy starring Jack Lemmon and Kim Novak, written by Larry Gelbart and Blake Edwards. Very enjoyable. Highly recommended.
- Captive State
I saw this in the theaters on 2019-03-16. This is a scifi film starring Ashton Sanders and John Goodman. Highly recommended.
- Made for Each Other
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-03-16. This is a 1939 film starring Carole Lombard and James Stewart. Highly recommended.
- Us
I saw this in the theaters on 2019-03-22. This is a horror film by Jordan Peele, who wrote, directed, and produced it. Very symbolic. I enjoyed it but the symbolism took a larger role than the horror elements. Still, highly recommended.
- How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-03-24. This is a 1967 musical comedy based on the 1961 play (based in turn on a book). Robert Morse stars and everyone is excellent. Very highly recommended.
- Blood Simple
I watched this on amazon prime (paid) on 2019-03-25. This is the Coen Brothers' first movie, a neo-noir-ish crime drama, where Frances McDormand (Joel Coen's wife in her feature debut) stars as the femme fatale. The movie moves quickly with some nice twists and turns. Very highly recommended.
- The Fortune Cookie
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-03-30. This is a 1966 Billy Wilder film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau. It is the first pairing of Lemmon-Matthau. Highly recommended.
- Dreams with Sharp Teeth
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-04-01. This is a 2008 documentary of writer Harlan Ellison, including interviews with Robin Williams and Neil Gaiman. It's about 100 minutes and highly recommended.
- Shazam!
I saw this in the theater on 2019-04-05. This is an enjoyable DC superhero film starring Zachary Levi. This is a fun film, but with a focus on family-oriented values. Highly recommended.
- Dreams on Spec
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-04-18. An enjoyable and well-done documentary on screenwriters in their early stages, by Daniel Snyder. It follows several writers in different stages. If you are a writer, highly recommended.
- The Curse of La Llorona
I saw this in the theater on 2019-04-19. This is a James Wan production the "The Conjuring" series. The filming is often shot from the perspective of kids and the scary things that happen to them. If you are a horror fan, recommended.
- The Equalizer 2
I watched this on XOD (free) on 2019-04-19. The first two acts of this are very well done. The last act has a very long fight sequence which is predictable. Recommended, especially for Denzel Washington fans.
- Farewell, My Lovely (1975)
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-04-21. This is a remake of the 1944 film Murder, My Sweet, also based on the book "Farewell, My Lovely" by R. Chandler. While (IMHO, campy, unevenly) directed by Dick Richards, this stars Robert Mitchum as private detective Phillip Marlowe. Recommended, especially for crime or film noir fans.
- The Autopsy of Jane Doe
I watched this on netflix on 2019-04-23. This is a contained, small cast, supernatural horror film directed by André Øvredal and starring Emile Hirsch and Brian Cox as father-son coroners. One night, they autopsy a woman who died mysteriously. Then odd things start to happen in their morgue. The cinematography is good but the action is too slow and the "scary" events are often too hard to believe. Recommended, for horror fans.
- Avengers: Endgame
I saw this in the theater on 2019-04-26. This is a Marvel film, and one of their best ones. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely. Highly recommended.
- Crazy Rich Asians
I watched this on hbo on 2019-04-27. This is a rom-com directed by Jon M. Chu. Enjoyable, thanks to a well-written script and the terrific performances. The film followed the script closely, but the shots of expensive real estate are hard to imagine from the written word. Highly recommended.
- Red Joan
I saw this in the theater on 2019-05-04. This is a fictional drama of a British woman who spied for the Russians in WWII, "inspired by the life of Melita Norwood". While Judi Dench is excellent, it is slow moving and the niavity of the main character (played very well in flashback scenes by Sophie Cookson) is a bit painful. Recommended for the acting and the story.
- The Intruder
I saw this in the theater on 2019-05-11. This is a psychological thriller starring Dennis Quaid, Meagan Good and Michael Ealy. This is the kind of movie that you can see more efficient ways of approaching it after watching the film. Worth watching for the underappreciated acting.
- Bridesmaids
I watched this again on dvd on 2019-05-12. This is a comedy written by Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig, directed by Paul Feig. This is really funny, but I think the script is even funnier. In any case, very highly recommended.
- Double Indemnity
I watched this again on dvd on 2019-05-12. This is a thriller/crime/film noir directed by Billy Wilder, written by Wilder and Raymond Chandler, based on the book by James Cain. Great film and very highly recommended.
- John Wick 3
I saw this in the theater on 2019-05-17. This is a high-octane action film starring Keanu Reeves, directed by Chad Stahelski and written by Derek Kolstad (and 3 others). I loved the dogs! I also liked the dynamic of the rules of the "high table" in the west, but when the story moves the Casablanca the rules become more fluid. It kind of mirrors the different societies we have in the west and in the middle east. Terrific action and a high body count, as usual, but not enough Lawrence Fishburne (as if there is ever enough). I think that will change in JW4:-). Actually, watched this twice in the theaters. Great film and very highly recommended.
- Cowspiracy
I watched this on netflix on 2019-05-22. This is a documentary which claims that the greenhouse gases (causing global warming) primarily result from the animal industry (mostly the beef industry), accounting (they say) for 51 percent of the total. Others dispute this, placing the proportion closer to 15 percent. In any case, "go vegan" is the message. Well-done and recommended, but read the wikipedia article for an analysis of their data.
- Brightburn
I saw this in the theater on 2019-05-24. This is an anti-superman "origin story"/superhero horror film written by a brother and a cousin of James Gunn, who produced the film. While the plot has some flaws, in common with many horror films, it has lots of suspense as well. Recommended for fans of horror or superhero films.
- Stripped
I watched this on kanopy (free with an Anne Arundel County library card) on 2019-05-22. This is a documentary about comic strip writers, such as Bill Watterson (Calvin and Hobbes). A little slow but the graphics are excellent (no surprise there) and the writers tell a compelling story of how their industry has adapted to the decline of newspapers. Recommended for artists and writers.
- Catch 22
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-05-27. This is a WWII comedy film from 1970 written by Buck Henry, based on the Heller novel, and directed by Mike Nichols. Great film and very highly recommended.
- Night School
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-06-01. This is a comedy directed by Malcolm D. Lee and starring Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddis. Hart and Haddish are great. It ends well but the jokes are often too weak. Fun and recommended.
- The Girl in the Spider's Web
I watched this on showtime on 2019-06-02. This is a 2018 action thriller film co-written and directed by Fede Álvarez. The star Claire Foy does a good job and it has some nice visuals, but is a fairly ordinary techno-thriller. Still, not bad and recommended.
- The Gunman
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-06-02. This is a action thriller with a terrific cast and locations, but the story if either too flat or the execution isn't as good as it could be. Watch it if you are a Sean Penn fan, but Idris Elba, Javier Bardem and Ray Winstone only play minor roles. Recommended for Sean Penn fans.
- The Ox-Bow Incident
I watched this on starz on 2019-06-04. This is a 1943 western starring starring Henry Fonda about a posse that hang 3 innocent men. Watched this on the idea that the narrative structure is not the typical heroic arc. Very highly recommended.
- Dark Phoenix
I saw this in the theater on 2019-06-08. This is a superhero movie from the MCU written and directed by Simon Kinberg and starring Sophie Turner as Jean Grey / Phoenix. I enjoyed the movie, even if the ending was both derivative and over the top. Highly recommended.
- Dead Don't Die
I saw this in the theater on 2019-06-14. This is a comedy zombie spoof written and directed by Jim Jarmusch. It stars Adam Driver, Bill Murray and Chloe Sevigny. Highly recommended.
- Murder Mystery
I watched this on netflix on 2019-06-14. This is a comedy murder mystery starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. Enjoyable, fun humor, and nice locations. Recommended.
- MIB4
I saw this in the theater on 2019-06-15. "Men in Black International" is a comedy scifi film directed by F. Gary Gray (who also directed Friday) starring Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson. Highly recommended.
- Chernobyl (miniseries)
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-06-21. This is a series depicting the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of April 1986 (while basically factual, and many of the actual characters appear in the series, many characters got combined into just a few fictional ones). The series was written and created by Craig Mazin. It's often horribly sad and uplifting at the same time. Very highly recommended.
- Child's Play
I saw this in the theater on 2019-06-28. Except for the fact that Chucky kills a poor kitty, this is a mostly enjoyable horror story starring Aubrey Plaza. Recommended.
- Spider-Man: Far From Home
I saw this in the theater on 2019-07-05. This is a fun superhero film in the MCU. Very imaginative scenes. Highly recommended.
- Ordeal by Innocence (TV series)
I watched this on amazon prime on 2019-07-07. This is a series based on the Agatha Christy mystery of the same name. There is no one detective/protagonist but flash-backs and the interruptions by the character of Doctor Arthur Calgary push the story forward. Well-directed and performed. Highly recommended.
- Con Air
I watched this on A+E on 2019-07-07 (for the um-teenth time). While I enjoy this movie, mostly due to the interesting concept, the story and plot have quite a few plausibility issues, causing the audience (namely me) to lose connection with the story. Also, the crashes and chase scenes at the end seem excessive and unnecessary. Still, recommended for action and/or Nicolas Cage fans.
- Stuber
I saw this in the theater on 2019-07-12. This is a fun action comedy in the vein of the old Three Stooges shorts. Vic, the stubborn cop who can't connect with his daughter Nicole and is still after the perp that killed his partner years earlier, and Stu, the Uber driver with GF problems, team up to capture the baddest drug dealer in LA. They get him, Vic patches things with Nicole, Stu breaks up with his GF and starts dating Nicole. Recommended for comedic action and fans of Kumail Nanjiani and/or Dave Bautista.
- Crawl
I saw this in the theater on 2019-07-13. This is a disaster horror film about a father and daughter trapped in a flooded house with alligators and crocodiles. Slow moving, but has some good moments. The dog doesn't die, so recommended.
- The Man from Earth
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-07-15. This is a one-location film consisting of dialogue only, and it is surprisingly engaging. It's based on a script by sci-fi writer Jerome Bixby. Highly recommended.
- Moneyball
I watched this on amazon prime (paid) on 2019-07-15. Based on the book by Michael Lewis, this is a dramatization of the Oakland Athletics baseball team's 2002 season and their general manager Billy Beane's attempts to assemble a competitive team. Very highly recommended.
- Marty
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-07-18. This is a 1955 romance drama written by Paddy Chayevsky, which won the Oscar for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best adapted Screenplay. It also won the Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or. Very highly recommended.
- The Art of Self-Defense
I saw this in the theater on 2019-07-19. This is a very good dark comedy starring Jesse Eisenberg, Alessandro Nivola and Imogen Poots. Very highly recommended.
- Network
I watched this on netflix on 2019-07-19. This is a 1976 satire on TV and the media written by Paddy Chayefsky and directed by Sidney Lumet. Still relevant today. It won four Academy Awards: Best Actor (Finch), Best Actress (Dunaway), Best Supporting Actress (Straight), and Best Original Screenplay (Chayefsky). Very highly recommended.
- The Hospital
I watched this on amazon prime (paid) on 2019-07-23. This is a 1971 satire of the health industry written by Paddy Chayevsky. It's written with unusual technical detail of medical ailments and treatments, which makes it feel real, but with numerous extremely unusual characters that it seems comical. Chayevsky won the Oscar, the Golden Globe, the WGA, and the BAFTA for Best Screenplay. Not as good as Marty or Network, IMHO, but still highly recommended.
- Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
I saw this in the theater on 2019-07-26. This is a Quentin Tarantino film about an alternative Hollywood from the late 1960s. I was confused by the edit glitches when Timothy Olyphant's character (James Stacy) talks with Leonardo DiCaprio's character (Rick Dalton). However, the ending is pure fun and movie-gore violence. Very highly recommended.
- Marshall
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-08-01. This is a biopic of Thurgood Marshall, focused on the part of his life during a rape trial in Connecticut. Starring the excellent Chadwick Boseman, it's fascinating and fun. Very highly recommended.
- Hobbs & Shaw
I saw this in the theater on 2019-08-02. This is a big fun summer blockbuster, with lots of action and CGI and fighting and chasing. Highly recommended.
- Serenity (2019)
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-08-05. This is an extremely odd "high concept" film which I enjoyed watching and found engaging, but had to look the plot up on wikipedia, because I couldn't believe it was so outrageous. Once I realized I'm not crazy, I sat back and enjoyed the ride. Recommended for the nutty ride.
- The Kitchen
I saw this in the theater on 2019-08-09. This is a DC movie that seems like a typical period crime drama. Stars Melissa McCarthy, Tiffany Haddish, and Elisabeth Moss. Enjoyable and recommended.
- Laggies
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-08-10. This is a comedy/romance directed by Lynn Shelton, starring Keira Knightley, Chloë Grace Moretz and Sam Rockwell. Lots of relationship issues, girl talk, not a lot of comedy. Still, a very good movie, filmed in Seattle. While somewhat predictable, it's well directed and a good film. Highly recommended.
- Outside In
I watched this on netflix on 2019-08-10. This is a drama/romance directed (and co-written by) by Lynn Shelton, starring Edie Falco and Jay Duplass. Quirky situations, lots of relationship issues, but well-directed and a very good movie, filmed in Granite Falls, WA, east of Seattle/Tacoma. Highly recommended.
- After Life (season 1)
I watched this on netflix on 2019-08-11. An excellent series written, directed and starring Ricky Gervais. Very highly recommended for all adults.
- Good Boys
I saw this in the theater on 2019-08-17. This is a comedy directed by Gene Stupnitsky, who co-wrote the script with Lee Eisenberg(the same team that wrote Bad Teacher). The film is about the wild misadventures of three sixth-graders. Goofy fun. Highly recommended for comedy lovers.
How It Ends - The Boys (season 1)
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-08-20. This is a superhero series where the "Supe"s are almost all bad. Well written and surprising in the plot twists, it's one of the best series I've seen. Highly recommended.
- Paddleton
I watched this on netflix on 2019-08-21. This is a bittersweet story of two friends, played by Ray Romano and Mark Duplass, one of whom is dying of cancer. Well-written and well-acted. Highly recommended.
- Max Payne
I watched this on starz on 2019-08-21. This is a neo-noir action thriller film based on the video game of the same name. Not bad for a movie of this type, as I've seen it many times. Recommended for comicbook/video fans.
- The Giant Beast That is the Global Economy
I watched this on amazon prime (free) on 2019-08-21. Excellent documentary series. The best episodes were those on money laundering, rubber, and counterfeiting. Highly recommended.
- Ready or Not
I saw this in the theater on 2019-08-24. This is a comedy/thriller about a bride who must play a "game" to be accepted into the family. There were some plot points that I think should have gone another way, but it has it's funny moments. Highly recommended.
- The Stepford Wives (2004)
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-08-31. While I enjoyed some of the humor, the direction was off and the plot was too goofy. Recommended for its quirkiness.
- Angel Has Fallen
I saw this in the theater on 2019-09-02. This is an action film, the 3rd in the "Fallen" film series. This has gunfights, knife fights, explosions, and high stakes. Besides Gerard Butler, it's even got Morgen Freeman and Nick Nolte. Fun movie. Highly recommended.
- Serial Mom
I saw this on dvd on 2019-09-02. This is a mockumentary/comedy/horror film. While the script is excellent, the film seems slightly "off" in some way I can't precisely describe. Possibly the daughter's character was played with too much realism and not as over-the-top as the other characters? The balance of comedy and horror is very wobbly in some sense. Anyway, highly recommended as my favorite of the John Waters films,
- Holmes & Watson
I watched this on showtime or starz on 2019-09-07. This is a comedy Sherlock Holmes movie but also a spoof of previous Sherlock Holmes movies (much like Tropic Thunder is a spoof on Vietnam war movies). For example, the CGI diagrams in Guy Ritchie's version are spoofed. There are some hilariously funny parts, but often the jokes are too predictable or too punny. I'd rank it in the same ballpark as Mel Brooks' Life Stinks - when it's funny it's hilariously funny. So, highly recommended for the funniest parts.
- Late Night
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-09-07. This is a dramedy exploring the culture of women on late night TV, written by Mindy Kaling, starring her and Emma Thompson. Well-structured with some touching moments, but few actual laughs. Highly recommended.
- Native Son
I watched this on hbo via amazon prime on 2019-09-10. This is a drama (both as a genre and by the adademic definition from the Greeks) adapted from the novel of the same name. The photography and performances (Ashton Sanders stars) are strong but the plot seems hard to believe, at least to me. Still, recommended.
- Hustlers
I saw this in the theater on 2019-09-13. This is a crime drama and a female buddy movie about two strippers who drug and rob patrons of a strip club. The strippers are not terrible likeable, and the victims are almost all rich jerks, so the only interesting action is the relationship between these two women (played by Lopez and Wu). Solid acting all around, but I didn't especially care for the cinematography, for technical reasons. Recommended as a female buddy movie, but not as (the trailers suggest) a caper movie involving strippers.
- Official Secrets
I saw this in the theater on 2019-09-13. This is a docudrama based on the life of a GCHQ whistleblower leading up to and during the outbreak of the Iraq War. At first, I was a little disengaged thinking that the protagonist was just being too naive (of course Cheney's crew is sleazy, how can you not know that?) but as the movie went on the specifically British issues emerged and I became much more engaged. Highly recommended.
- Villains
I saw this in the theater on 2019-09-27. This is a darkly comic thriller with a very twirky, fun beginning that then becomes more of a standard thriller. The actors are terrific. Highly recommended.
- Between two ferns: the movie
I watched this on netflix on 2019-09-27. Excellent mockumentary starring Zach Galifinakis and a long list of cameos. Highly recommended.
- Joker
I saw this in the theater on 2019-10-04. This is a dark origin story for the Joker which stars Joaquin Phoenix. The acting is great - a very strong performance. The cinematography is also good. The writing is solid, if not somewhat predicable (if you know the character). Very highly recommended.
- Lovely Molly
I watched this on netflix on 2019-10-16. This is a possession horror film directed by Eduardo Sanchez (or Blair Witch fame) and written by ES and Jamie Nash. There is a theory that possession is a metaphor for a family trauma. This film fits that model. I liked how the possession could be confused with effects from her drug addition. Recommended.
- Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
I saw this in the theater on 2019-10-18. This is "Maleficent, 2" but I never saw part 1. I liked the structure of the plot. It's basically a Disney action film, so the acting is generally not difficult, except for Dakota Fanning who carries all her scenes well. She conveyed honest sadness when Maleficent "dies" and the ending is nice. My guess is that there will be a part 3. Recommended, especially for kids (Disney's target audience).
- Absolutely Anything
I watched this on amazon prime on 2019-10-19. This is a Monty Python/Douglas Adams-like scifi comedy co-written and directed by Terry Jones (or Monty Python). The cast is stellar but the gags are sometimes too silly or obvious, while other times hilarious and clever. Overall, I loved it (but I love both Douglas Adams and Monty Python). Highly recommended.
- The Laundromat
I watched this on netflix on 2019-10-20. This is a fictionalized documentary "comedy drama" on the Panama Papers (a corporation based in Panama that helped rich create shell companies to avoid taxes). Very well-written (Scott Burns), directed (Steven Soderbergh), and acted. Very highly recommended.
- Parasite
I saw this in the theater on 2019-10-25. This is a Korean dark comedy, subtitled in English, about a family that tries to lie their way into a rich families home as cook, tutors, and drivers. Things end badly, but the son (the main protag, I assume) seems to survive the ordeal. It won the Palme d'Or in 2019. Slow to get started but highly recommended.
- The Univited
I watched this on TCM (via dvr) on 2019-10-31. This 1944 film is regarded as the first "serious" ghost story. The previous ghost stories (eg, Topper) did not have a scary ghost, while this one did. I enjoyed it but was sad to learn that the young actress playing Stella (20 year old Gail Russell) died of alcoholism in her 30s. Highly recommended.
- Terminator: Dark Fate
I saw this in the theater on 2019-11-02. This is the 6th Terminator movie and one of the best ones. The plot was, as usual, a little loopy (bad time-travel pun intended). For one, the new terminator is practically indestructible, except if it gets stuck in the eye with this tiny "power source." Unfortunately, they only brought one back from the future and it's used to keep this hybrid anti-terminator (played by Mackenzie Davis) alive. Why not bring 2 next time? Just a thought. Highly recommended.
- Barbershop 2
I watched this on starz on 2019-11-06. This is a comedy starring Ice Cube and Cedric the Entertainer. A little disjointed in the beginning but got better as the film went on. Excellent acting. Highly recommended.
- Doctor Sleep
I saw this in the theater on 2019-11-08. This is the sequel to The Shining, and IMHO it's really excellent. Newcomer, 13-year old Kyliegh Curran as Abra is good as well. Well-structured and well-acted. Now I want to read the book. Very highly recommended.
- My Favorite Year
Saw this om amazon prime (paid) on 2019-11-15. Co-written by Norman Steinberg (who co-wrote Blazing Saddles) and starring Peter O'Toole. Loved it. Highly recommended.
- Instant Family
Saw this om amazon prime on 2019-11-16. A well-written movie directed and co-written by Sean Anders. Highly recommended.
- Gigi
I watched this on netflix on 2019-11-17. This romantic musical won 9 Oscars, including best picture, best director, and best adapted screenplay. Very highly recommended.
- Don't Think Twice
I watched this on netflix on 2019-11-20. This ensemble comedy was written and directed by Mike Birbiglia, who also acts in it. It's the story of an improv troupe in New York. Highly recommended.
- 21 Bridges
I saw this in the theater on 2019-11-24. This is a crime thriller starring Chadwick Boseman. The dialogue is sometimes stilted but the actors pull their lines off well. Lots of action and plot twists. Highly recommended.
- Get the Gringo
Saw this om amazon prime on 2019-11-26. A well-written movie starring Mel Gibson (who also co-wrote it), and directed and co-written by Adrian Grunberg. Recommended.
- Knives Out
I saw this in the theater on 2019-11-28 (Thanksgiving). This is a mystery with some comedic elements, starring Ana de Armas, written and directed by Rian Johnson. Clever and very well-done. Very highly recommended.
- The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956)
I watched this on starz on 2019-11-29. This is a thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring James Stewart and Doris Day. It is based on Hitchcock's 1934 film of the same title. IMHO there are some plot issues (eg, parents allowing a stranger to look after their kid), but still it's highly recommended.
- Avanti!
Saw this om amazon prime on 2019-12-15. A well-written movie starring Jack Lemmon and Juliet Mills. The screenplay by Wilder and I. A. L. Diamond is based on the play of the same title. Highly recommended.
- Bumblebee
Saw this om amazon prime on 2019-12-18. A fun movie, part of the Transformer franchaise. Highly recommended.
- Bosch (seasons 1-5)
Finished bingeing this on amazon prime on 2019-12-21. An enjoyable neo-noirish detective series, that basically follows a case per season. Alone, I applauded the conclusion to season 5. Can't wait until April 2020, for season 6. Highly recommended.
- 6 Underground
Finished this on netflix on 2019-12-22. An ultimately enjoyable Michael Bay action film starring Ryan Reynolds, written by the same due (Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese) that wrote Deadpool. This is not Deadpool. Lots of action and cool locations but a very weak plot. Recommended.
- Bombshell
I saw this in the theater on 2019-12-26. This is a movie focusing on the downfall of Fox's Roger Ailes. Terrific job of acting by Charlize Theron. Highly recommended.
- Fast Color
Saw this on amazon prime on 2019-12-28. A fun and original but uneven sci-fi/superhero movie starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Recommended.
- Detour
Saw this on amazon prime on 2019-12-28, although I've seen this 10 or 15 times. The b-roll of the car ride across country, where some cars drive on the left side of the road and some on the right (I'm guessing the film was flipped, so he'd seem be going right-to-left) still cracks me up. Uneven acting but a terrific film noir. Highly recommended.
- Okja
Saw this on netflix on 2019-12-28, A sci-fi CGI/live action film about the friendship between a little girl (played by Ahn Seo-hyun) and a super pig named Okja. One of the best films I've seen all year. Very highly recommended.
- El Chicano
I watched this on showtime on 2019-12-29. This is a crime/superhero movie about a Latino cop who becomes a superhero known as El Chicano. Co-written by Joe Carnahan. I loved it. Recommended.
I watched this on netflix on 2019-08-19. This is a apocalyptic disaster drama starring Theo James, Forest Whitaker. I thought it moved well for a film with a very small cast. Recommended.
