The Book Thief
The Book Thief opens with a voiceover by Death, so you know from the get-go that all is not right with the world, or with the story that’s about to…
Enough Said
Enough Said is really Julia Louis Dreyfus’ movie. She shines as Eva, a funny, cynical, hard-working masseuse who could probably use a massage or two to de-stress. But as soon…
The Way, Way Back
I first saw The Way, Way Back way back in early May. I loved it then. And I think I love it even more now (considering the array of films…
Unfinished Song
Unfinished Song isn’t exactly a comedy - unless, perhaps, you’re comparing it to the likes of Amour. Then sure, it’s a hoot. The film tackles a rather sensitive subject -…
20 Feet From Stardom
20 Feet From Stardom is one of those documentaries that’s just plain fun, and interesting to watch - for the music and the story. It’s not quite as good as…
The Kings of Summer
The Kings of Summer is no Stand By Me. But it does try to be. So two points for effort! The Kings of Summer is a pleasant little coming-of-age dramedy…
Before Midnight
Step one: If you haven’t already, go rent/watch Before Sunrise (1995) Step two: If you haven’t already, go rent/watch Before Sunset (2004) Step three: If you haven’t already, go see…
Frances Ha
Poor Frances. At the ripe old age of 27, nothing in her life is going right. Her boyfriend wants her to move in, but she can't run out on her…
No
Academy Award nominee No is another film based on a true story, but what makes it remarkable is that this story changed history. It takes place in Chile in 1988,…
Take This Waltz
Take This Waltz is one of those indies that I kept thinking might have a different sense of pace and was maybe just going to take a bit of breath…
Midnight’s Children
I knew I was in trouble when a friend of mine described the book "Midnight's Children" as a "classic - but emotionally draining." I generally don't do very well with…
The Place Beyond the Pines
I really like Ryan Gosling. And I really like Bradley Cooper. But I just did not like this movie, which actually felt more like three movies. I kept waiting to…
The Sapphires
In a nutshell, The Sapphires is like an indie version of Sparkle meets Dreamgirls. It’s based on the true story of an aboriginal singing group that was basically Australia’s answer…
Safety Not Guaranteed
Sometimes not knowing what you're getting into can be a great thing. Indie films are perfect for that since they haven't usually been hyped and marketed to death. And though…
Stand Up Guys
Great actors does not a great movie make. Pardon my grammar, but that’s my final answer on Stand Up Guys, a dark comedy starring Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and, to…