"The Martian" is a true "Real Hollywood Story" that has a great back story. Bay Area resident, writer Andy Wier, began working as a computer programmer at the age of 15 at Sandia National Laboratories in Livermore. He originally started "The Martian" as a free serial on his website. The popularity of "The Martian" grew and Wier made the decision to make the novel available on Amazon Kindle for a fee of 99 cents. It quickly rocketed to the Kindle's bestseller list. Crown Publishing Group came knocking and published the book, which quickly jumped to number 12 on the New York Times Best Seller's List.
What does that mean? Hollywood was next and the movie rights were sold.
"The Martian" is directed by three-time Oscar nominee Ridley Scott ("Black Hawk Down," "Gladiator," "Thelma & Louise" and "Alien"). It is Scott's best SciFi film since "Alien" and possibly his greatest film ever. The movie has a stellar cast which includes: Oscar recipient Matt Damon ("Good Will Hunting"), two-time Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain ("Zero Dark Thirty," "The Help"), Oscar nominee Kristen Wiig, four-time Golden Globe nominee Jeff Daniels ("The Squid and the Whale," "Something Wild") and the very talented actor Michael Pena ("Ant-Man," "American Hustle").

The story begins with the top NASA crew on Mars. When a violent storm erupts, the crew must make an emergency departure from the planet. One crewmember, astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon), is presumed dead and left behind on Mars. Watney must call upon all his scientific knowledge to stay alive and find a way to inform NASA on Earth that he is still alive.

"The Martian" is thrilling, intense, thought provoking and it will keep you on the edge of your seat. The wit of Damon's character will assist in breaking down the occasional scientific theory in the movie. The cinematography is amazing. I am sure "The Martian" will be receiving several awards come award season.

"The Martian" is rated PG-13 for some strong language, injury images and brief nudity, with a TRT (Total Running Time) of 2 hours and 21 minutes. A must see on the big screen.

Posted or revised on: 11/15/2015

The Bella’s are back in the sequel to the 2012 surprise hit, “Pitch Perfect”, which was made on a $17 million production budget and grossed $65 million at the US box-office. Moviegoers knew a sequel would be in the works with those results. This time, everyone’s favorite a capella group – the Barden University Bellas – must regain their glory after a humiliating wardrobe malfunction by Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson) that was witnessed by the President of the United States while they performed at the prestigious Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. With nowhere else to turn, the Bellas enter an international competition that no American a cappella group has ever won.

The solid ensemble cast from the original movie returns in “Pitch Perfect 2”, which includes Oscar Nominee Anna Kendrick (Beca), comedian Rebel Wilson (Fat Amy), Brittany Snow (Chloe), Ester Dean (Cynthia), Hana Mae Lee (Lily) and Alexis Knapp (Stacie). Beca is a senior at Barden and working as an intern at a record label company when Chloe discovers that Beca is more interested in her career. The Bellas once again must pull it all together and find the “perfect pitch.”

Two-time Emmy Award nominee, Elizabeth Banks (30 Rock) takes the directing reins and keeps the movie going at a quick, witty pace. She also does another superb job as the color commentary co-host, Gail, at the a cappella contests. As sequels go, the movie hits all the right notes and holds its own as an entertaining, enjoyable comedy. Once again it is Rebel Wilson (Fat Amy) who steals the stage. The girl is hilarious and I would say the funniest woman in Hollywood. She deserves her own movie.

“Pitch Perfect 2” is rated PG-13 for innuendos and language.

Posted or revised on: 5/16/2015

Each year one movie becomes the surprise gem that everyone goes to see. Last year I said it was Parkland and this year it is St. Vincent, starring Bill Murray, Melisa McCarthy and Naomi Watts and Jaeden Lieberhaer. At first glance one might say, based on the outstanding cast, St. Vincent would be a slapstick comedy. It is far from slapstick! It is a dramedy about a young boy, Oliver, who is dealing with his parents’ separation. He moves to a new neighborhood, new school and finds an unlikely friend in his new neighbor, Vincent. Oliver finds the good in Vincent, who is a grumpy, unhappy old man. A lesson all of us can learn – that there is good in all people.

Newcomer, Jaeden Lieberhaer plays Oliver and he does an excellent job opposite the veteran actors, Oscar Nominees, Bill Murray (Lost in Translation), Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids) and two-time Oscar Nominee, Naomi Watts (The Impossible, 21 Grams). Based on Jaeden’s performance, we will see him for years to come. Bill Murray as Vincent is outstanding and should receive his second Oscar Nomination. An unknown fact about Bill Murray – he does not have an agent. You need to call his 800 number and pitch him the role you would like him to play. If Murray likes what he hears, he will call you back. If not well – so sorry. First time feature film director, Theodore Melfi, who also wrote the screenplay, succeeded in his pitch and Murray agreed to the role. Murray worked with Melfi on the script and it truly shines on the big screen. Other supporting cast includes Oscar Nominee, Terrance Howard (Hustle & Flow) and Chris O’Dowd (Bridesmaids, and the 2012 “gem” The Sapphires – rent it if you have not seen it.)

St. Vincent is my favorite film so far this year. I have seen it now 3 times. Do yourself a favor and go see this wonderfully acted, scripted and directed movie. If you are not touched by this movie you have missed the point. Sometimes we have to take a chance to learn a valuable lesson in life and St. Vincent is one of those chances. St. Vincent has a PG13 rating with an enjoyable 102 minutes that will make you laugh, cry and learn a valuable lesson in life.

Posted or revised on: 11/15/2014

Hollywood loves to produce sports themed movies and over the years they have scored on "Hoosiers," "Rudy," "The Blind Side," and "Remember the Titians." But Hollywood has also disappointed viewers several times with films like "Gridiron Gang," "Johnny Be Good" and "Summer Catch." If you missed these titles you did not waste two hours of your life. If you did see them, sorry, you wasted two hours of your life.

Now Hollywood has produced the film "When the Game Stands Tall," from the book of the same title by former Contra Costa Times sports writer Neil Hayes, based on one of the greatest sports records in history - De La Salle's historic 151-game winning streak that spanned more than a 12-year period. Yes, the Bay Area's De La Salle High School is a Roman Catholic boys' school in Concord. Over a 12-year period and a national record there should be a solid dramatic movie in there somewhere. The story focuses on head coach Bob Ladouceur (portrayed by Jim Caviezel, "The Passion of Christ," "The Thin Red Line") and his coaching style as he builds a family among the players. "It's not about the sports; it's about growing up, forgiveness, commitment and brotherhood." The movie also addresses Ladouceur's family life - especially his relationship with his wife Bev, played by Oscar nominee Laura Dern ("Rambling Rose"), and his son Danny (Matthew Daddario). This all seems like enough material for a miniseries, not a two- hour movie. Whenever Hollywood purchases the movies rights of a real life story, they retain creative control and also have the liberty to embellish. Anyone who followed the remarkable winning streak of De La Salle or just casually read about the team in the newspaper will know the producers and writers exercised their creative license.

The three major storylines are based on factual events: the 151-game winning streak; player Terrance Kelly's murder in Richmond; and ending the streak to Bellevue, Wash., 39-20 in 2004. Even these three major storylines have had creative license added to them. The rest of the film shows Hollywood at its best - adding drama to what they feel makes a better movie. I question that. Most of the players in the film are fictional characters, such as star running back Chris Ryan, and his relationship with his overly obsessed father is all added drama. If you are looking for a factual movie, you may want to look elsewhere.
One thing I found interesting about the movie was that the film starts with De La Salle losing and Coach Ladouceur rebuilding the winning spirit of his football family. Seeing the local high school team with their actual team jerseys was an added treat.

"When the Game Stands Tall" is rated PG-13 with a TRT (Total Running Time) of 1 hour and 55 minutes. "When the Game Stands Tall" is now playing at the Orinda Theatre and to tie in with the national release of the movie, Orinda Theatre is offering discounted $7 movie tickets on Thursday, Aug. 28 to any students who are dressed in attire showing their own school pride.

Posted or revised on: 9/13/2014

It's that time of year again - the leaves are changing colors, the weather is getting colder and families are gathering together for holiday celebrations. As the leaves are falling, Oscar buzz is in the air. The Oscars are always an unpredictable event but this year there is a sure front runner for best actor - Eddie Redmayne for his portrayal of the 20th century genius Stephen Hawking. No one has been a shoe-in to win best actor since maybe Daniel Day Lewis for his role in "My Left Foot."

I wrote in 2011 after seeing Redmayne in the independent film "My Week with Marilyn" that he is the one to watch and will receive an Oscar someday. Well this is his year. He already won Best Breakout Performance two weeks ago at the Hollywood Film Awards, which kicks off the award season.

"The Theory of Everything" is a movie based not only on Hawking's incredible mind but also on the relationship between Hawking and his college sweetheart and wife, Jane, solidly played by Felicity Jones ("The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)," "Like Crazy"). When the two met while studying at Cambridge, it was love at first sight. They experienced a healthy relationship as college students until one day when Hawking was stricken with a motor neuron disease related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This event changes everything in both their lives. Hawking was told he had only two years to live. Jane loved him so much she agreed/demanded to marry him and take care of him.

"The Theory of Everything" is rated PG-13 and has a total running time (TRT) of 2 hours and 3 minutes.

Posted or revised on: 12/12/2014

"The Monuments Men" is the latest directing project by Oscar recipient George Clooney, and his frequent collaborator and co-writer, Oscar winner Grant Heslov ("Argo," "The Ides of March," "Good Night, and Good Luck"). They adapted the screenplay from the novel written by Robert M. Edsel and Bret Witter, which is based on the true story of servicemen and women assigned to locate and recover works of art stolen from museums, universities and personal collections by Adolf Hitler, Herman Göring and the Nazis during World War II.
The ensemble cast includes George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman and soon to be Oscar winner Cate Blanchett. The entire cast delivers outstanding performances but it is Blanchett who shines on the big screen as the assistant curator from the Jeu de Paume museum in Paris and who is reluctant to cooperate. It is her character's detailed notes and logs that lead to many of the recoveries.
"The Monuments Men" is no "Schindler's List." It is an interesting movie with flaws. It lacks character development and Clooney never truly brings out the tension of what one would except from a World War II period piece. Plus the musical score sets the tone for humor that diverts the story away from the seriousness of the subject matter. I commend Clooney for bringing to light the story of these courageous individuals as an educational vehicle and addressing the question: What's the price we're willing to pay for art? The movie made me want to learn more about the Monument Men, the stolen art and the recovery. If a film can educate as well as entertain, it is worth the price of admission.
The amazing part of attending the San Francisco press screening of "The Monuments Men" was meeting Bernard Taper, a real Monument Man and retired UC Berkley journalism professor. It was a wonderful experience to shake his hand and say "thank you." A moment in my film history I will never forget.
"The Monuments Men" is rated PG-13 for a few war scenes and smoking. It has a running time of 1 hour and 58 minutes. I highly recommend school field trips for this film.

Posted or revised on: 2/13/2014

I went into the press screening of "Saving Mr. Banks" thinking I was going to see a "feel good" Disney holiday movie. But in reality, I got more than a "spoonful of sugar." I saw a solid film with a superior script and superb acting based on the true story about P. L. Travers, the author of "Mary Poppins."

The film stars two-time Oscar winner Emma Thompson ("Sense and Sensibility," "Howards End") as the bitter Travers and two-time Oscar winner and Bay Area native Tom Hanks ("Forrest Gump," "Philadelphia") as Walt Disney. Disney's daughters loved the book, "Mary Poppins," and he promised them that one day he would make a "Mary Poppins" movie. Well, sometimes things are not that easy, even if you are Walt Disney. Travers was very protective of the creation of her characters in "Mary Poppins" and she had no desire to have them come to life on the big screen.

After 20 years chasing his promise to his daughters, Disney continued to pursue the rights from Travers. When the royalties were drying up, Travers finally agreed under one condition: that she maintain total control of production. As Disney says, "A promise is a promise," and for his daughters he agreed to the terms. Disney did not have any idea what was in store for him and the production crew as they began making "Mary Poppins." Travers was not happy about anything from the script, the music, the animation, to the casting of Dick Van Dyke.

As the story is told with the use of childhood flashbacks, we learn why the fictitious characters were so important. The film explores how events in Travers' childhood stayed with her and how she became more embittered holding on to the memories. Some of the events are heart wrenching, which I was not expecting. Thompson as Travers is Oscar-worthy and the emotional end scene will receive a lot of attention. I think it will be a tight race at the 86th Annual Academy Awards between Emma Thompson and Cate Blanchett, for her role in "Blue Jasmine."

John Lee Hancock ("The Blind Slide") directed "Saving Mr. Banks," which is a high-quality film, but not "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." Be prepared for a drama - not a lighthearted comedy. "Saving Mr. Banks" is rated PG-13, due to the intense emotional and troubling scenes from Travers' childhood with a TRT (total running time) of 2 hours and 5 minutes. Heads up: stay for the end credits for a special treat.

Posted or revised on: 12/11/2013

The Book Thief" is a film based on the international best-selling novel by Markus Zusak that tells the story of Liesel, an adopted girl in World War II Germany who is intrigued by the only book she brought with her to her new home. This book inspires her to begin collecting other books as she is taught to read by her adopted father and a young Jewish man the family is secretly hiding in their basement.

The talented cast makes "The Book Thief" a winner. The young gifted actress, Sophie Neilisse, impressively portrays Liesel, who many of you will recall from her role in the 2012 Oscar nominated film "Monsieur Lazhar," which also won the 14th Annual California Independent Film Festival Best Picture. I predict many quality roles for Sophie as she continues to grow as an actor. Liesel's adopted parents are Hans (Oscar winner Geoffrey Rush) and Rosa (two-time Oscar nominee Emily Watson). Hans is a character that audiences will find pleasant, lovable and caring. Rosa on the other hand will have to grow on you, but give her some time. Both Rush and Watson deliver Oscar nominated performances.

Although the movie takes place in a horrific time period in history, the screenplay adapted by Michael Petroni ("The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader") adds a touch of humor in the scenes between husband and wife, Hans and Rosa. Hans' quick wit will have you laughing as he reluctantly interacts with Rosa. The humor is well placed throughout the film.

Brian Percival, an Emmy Award winning director ("Downton Abbey") directed "The Book Thief" that has a TRT (total running time) of 2 hours and 11 minutes. It is rated PG13 for some violence and intense depictions of WWII.

3 Slates

Posted or revised on: 11/14/2013

Compelling, terrifying, riveting and a parent’s worst nightmare best describes this chilling new thriller from French Canadian director Denis Villeneuve. Prisoners was the “talk about film” at both the recent Telluride Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival. Villeneuve may not be a household name yet but his previous film Incendies was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2011. In 2009 the California Independent Film Festival showed his short film, Next Floor, which won the Best Short Film. We will be showing Next Floor at the CAIFF preview night on Oct. 15 7 PM at the Rheem Theatre to showcase the quality of films that will be shown at the festival in November. Kudos to CAIFF Alumni!

After Prisoners Villeneuve will be a WORLD WIDE household name as a director. He brings out the best in the stellar cast that includes Oscar Nominee, Hugh Jackman (Les Miserables) as Keller Dover, a working class dad in rural Pennsylvania whose daughter and her best friend have gone missing. Keller takes matters into his own hands when the only suspect, Alex Jones, played the talented young actor Paul Dano (Little Miss Sunshine) is released after 48 hours by local Detective Loki portrayed by Oscar Nominee, Jake Gyllenhaal (Brokeback Mountain). Jackman delivers the performance of his life. You feel all the emotions a parent would go through if their child were suddenly snatched away. You empathize with Keller andthen turn against him but he reels you back in.

Prisoners is not like Taken, for Keller is not a trained CIA specialist buta common working class man who will do anything for his family. This is not a Hollywood knock off of Taken;Villeneuve delivers a very different film that will keep you on the edge of your seat right from the beginning. Villeneuve sets the tone by filming the entire movie with no sunshine, just typical East Coast winter gloom.

The supporting cast includes two time Oscar Nominee, Viola Davis (The Help, Doubt), two-time Golden Globe Nominee, Maria Bello (A History of Violence, The Cooler), Oscar Nominee Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow) and Oscar Winner Melissa Leo (The Fighter).

Get ready for Prisoners. It is a movie that takes you into a heartbreaking situation that addresses the emotions of eachindividual from the parents to the supporters and outward through the entire small town. The twists and turns will keep you mesmerized for the entire 2 hours 19 minutes. Do not give away the ending when talking about this film.

Prisoners is rated R for extreme violence, torture scenes and strong language throughout the movie. This is not a film for the young ones.

Posted or revised on: 9/14/2013

Spring is in the air, the weather is warming up and baseball season has begun, which also means it’s time for Hollywood to start releasing blockbusters and 42 is one of the first. 42 is based on the true story of Jackie Robinson, the first African American major league baseball player. In 1946, Major League Baseball had 400 active players – all Caucasian. On April 15, 1947, baseball changed: 399 Caucasians and 1 African American – Mr. Jackie Robinson.

Newcomer Chadwick Boseman pulls off an excellent performance playing Jackie Robinson. His resemblance to Robinson is uncanny. You just feel for Robinson as he is dealing with all the racial attacks and slurs on him. 42 also focuses on Branch Rickey, President and General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers and the man who broke the color barrier by signing Robinson. Harrison Ford gives his best performance since his Oscar nomination for his role in Witness. I do feel Ford was pushing his character too far in a few scenes, but overall it is an outstanding performance.

42 is written and directed by the very talented Brain Helgeland (L.A. Confidential, Mystic River). The dialogue is outstanding. When Rickey is having a discussion with Robinson about signing a contract, Robinson states “You give me a uniform, you give me a number on my back, I will give you guts!” And that is exactly what Jackie Robinson gave to all of us. Another line that stands out was delivered early in the film when Robinson asked Rickey “Why you doing this?” and Rickey’s response was, “I am in the baseball business”. But you know as an audience, based on Ford’s performance, that this only partially true and that there is so much more to Rickey’s decision to sign Robinson.

42 is more than a baseball movie. It is about equality, taking a chance, standing up for what you believe and not taking no for an answer. Although 42 took place 66 years ago and there have been many societal changes since that time ­– equality in many areas still does not exist.

42 is rated PG-13 and has a total running time of 2 hours and 8 minutes. Make 42 a family day at the movies. I am sure that questions and comments for the entire family including the young ones will be worth more than the price of admission. It will be priceless.

Posted or revised on: 4/12/2013

When reviewing The Great Gatsby, it is hard not to compare it with the version starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow, but in all fairness I will do my best to focus only on this new release starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan.

Visually, once again, Bas Luhrmann (Director and Screenwriter) has created a feast for the eyes. As he did with Moulin Rouge, Luhrmann has used his artistic abilities to astound and amaze with camera angles and effects that keep you stimulated and glued to the screen. Each scene is a treat with lighting and the use of color and wind and sun light dazzling and hypnotizing the audience to keep watching. I only wish the story had the same effect.

Leonardo DiCaprio is the perfect actor to play Jay Gatsby. He has the charm, the look, and the emotions in his eyes that reveal a twinkle mixed with just the right amount of sadness and fear.

The role of Daisy Buchanan (the love interest) is a very difficult role to play. She needs to come across as frivolous, spoiled, sad, and yearning while still being a likable character you can relate to and have sympathy for.

A challenge for any actress. Carey Mulligan, unfortunately, was not the actress who could meet this challenge. Her portrayal was flat and her “one note” performance brought down what could have been a great movie.

Too much relied on her portrayal of Daisy. In order for you to believe in the sadness and the longing that Gatsby and Daisy feel for each other, Daisy has to be played with all the many facets required. Carey Mulligan fails this requirement. This is too bad.

You really want to like this film. All the elements are there to make you like it. But when it comes down to the story, which you have to have work, it fails.

A lot of time and money went into this production. You can tell. I still say you should see it for it’s visually content and stimulation alone. But if you expect to walk away from the film feeling sympathy for the characters or any emotional connection to them, you will walk away disappointed.

Posted or revised on: 5/15/2013

Did you like the film “Forest Gump”? Did you enjoy “The Help”? or “The Color Purple”? If you answered “yes”, then you will love “The Butler”.

Lee Daniels’ “The Butler” will take you on a journey through time from the 1920’s all the way to the present through the telling of one man (Forest Whitaker) and his family’s struggles and changing attitudes dealing with racism, class distinction, politics, marital relationships, wage rights, and violence. This film mixes humor, historical facts, trauma, and interpersonal relationships in a presentation that will affect you on every level.

I was expecting the film to be about a butler who worked in the White House for several decades and his dealings with the changing regime and staff. To my pleasant surprise, the film is about so much more. The dealings in the White House are almost a simple backdrop to the real story that is presented by this excellent cast.

Cecil Gaines, the butler, played by Forest Whitaker, has to wear two different faces and thus lead two completely different lives. Rarely is he allowed to mix his two worlds (life in the White House and life at home) together. When he is being trained to be the perfect butler, he is told repeatedly “When you are serving, it must appear that the room is empty, even when you are in it.” This sums up the whole attitude that is a strong catalyst for the attitudes toward racism and prejudice presented in this film.

Cecil’s wife, Gloria, is played by Oprah Winfrey. It is good to see her back on the screen. Oprah plays the role with amazing finesse. She makes it look so easy and natural and it is a pleasure to watch her performance. It is also nice to see the role not just played as a foil for Cecil to tell his story. Her part is strong and vibrant and stands on its own as a strong leading role.

The entire cast is amazing in the very real portrayals. You feel better for knowing them and being a part of their lives for the 132 minutes you are allowed to share with them. (Yes, the movie is long, but the time will go by very quickly due to the great story.)

The supporting actors and actresses are all performers whom you are not used to seeing in such small parts. It is a testament that icons like Robin Williams (Dwight D. Eisenhower), John Cusack (Richard Nixon), Jane Fonda (Nancy Reagan), Vanessa Redgrave and on and on would lend their talents to such a film.

I would not be fully honest if I did not express my own personal feelings of watching with shame the way this country and the South treated Blacks in their struggle for equal rights and treatment. I hail from the South and recall our schools being forced to desegregate and having waiting rooms and public facilities divided by color of skin. It was embarrassing and painful to watch this part of my background displayed to me through this film. It was also sobering for me to recall that this was only about 40 years ago in history. I look back with sadness at “What were we thinking?” and also with sadness that prejudice and bigotry have still not completely died out based on race, or age, or sexual preference. We still have a long way to go.

Go see this film. Yes, it is very “formula” in its storytelling. But the story is entertaining. It will be definitely up for award nominations and you will be glad you saw and experienced this film.

The Butler is rated PG-13. The film has some disturbing violent scenes that will burn some haunting memories into an impressionable mind. Take children with that warning in mind, but don’t keep them away. They need to see how far we have come in our tolerance and acceptance and how far we still have to go.

The total running time is 2 hours and 12 minutes.

Posted or revised on: 9/14/2013

Trouble with the Curve is a baseball movie and no one loves baseball movies more than I but they are difficult to create for actors who are not baseball players and this problem is evident in Trouble with the Curve. Moneyball, Field of Dreams and Eight Men Out are successful baseball films.
Trouble with the Curve has more problems than just a lack of players. The problems include the script, lack of character development, and direction. Robert Lorenz (Gran Torino, Letters from Iwo Jima, Million Dollar Baby) and longtime producing partner of Clint Eastwood directed this film, which proves that a great producer is not necessarily a great director. The cast is stacked with talent: Oscar Winner and Hollywood legend, Clint Eastwood, three time Oscar nominee, Amy Adams (The Fighter, Doubt, Junebug), three time Emmy winner, Justin Timberlake (The Social Network) and Golden Globe and Emmy winner, John Goodman (Rosanne). This is an impressive ensemble cast that does not click because the director was unable to pull them altogether. A few scenes with the older Clint Eastwood were painful to watch.
The movie focuses on aging baseball scout Gus, (Clint Eastwood) who is struggling to find the next big superstar. His eyes and health are failing, but he does not give up. Gus’ estranged daughter, Mickey, comes to lend her support and love. She also meets Justin Timberlake, a former baseball player whom Gus scouted years ago.
Trouble with the Curve is rated PG13 and is a long 111 minutes.

Posted or revised on: 03-12-2013

Everyone searches for love in different ways and in The Lucky One, Marine, Logan Thibault (Zac Efron, High School Musical, Charlie St. Cloud) returns from his third tour of duty in Iraq, searching for the woman (Taylor Schilling, Mercy) who he believes saved his life in an Iraqi war zone. Logan found a photo of the woman in a pile of rubble and carried it with him at all times. Who is she and is she the one for him?

The movie is formulaic - boy finds girl, girl is torn and drama ensues. Efron does a good job as the post-traumatic service man and has established himself as an actor, surpassing being a “Disney Kid”. Schilling portrays Beth, the woman in the photo who at times reminds me of Mary Stuart Masterson. The biggest problem with her performance was that she never cried and this is a “Tear Jerker” movie. When the lead female is unable to cry it quickly drops the tear radar. The strongest performance comes from the solid veteran actress, Blythe Danner (Meet the Parents) who plays the supportive, loving grandmother to Beth. Blythe Danner is Gwyneth Paltrow’s mother.

The Lucky One is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, Dear John) and directed by Oscar Nominee Scott Hicks (Shine). When a movie has all this talent you might expect more. The cinematography captures the southern backdrop that adds to the depth of this “Chick Flick”. If you are looking for a movie that requires limited thinking and is formula based, then The Lucky One is for you.

Posted or revised on: 03-07-2013

Safe Haven is Nichols Sparks’ best romantic film since The Notebook that was released in 2004. Safe Haven is Nichols Sparks’ first attempt at producing a film under his new production company Nicholas Sparks Productions. He truly understands this genre of so called “Chick Flicks”. Safe Haven is based on Sparks’ bestselling novel of the same title, staring Julianne Hough (Dancing with the Stars, Rock of Ages) as Katie, a mysterious young lady on the run, who shows up in the small coastal town of Southport, North Carolina. Katie’s behavior is on the nervous side, which is most evident when the local police officers show up at the diner where she is working. The use of flashback quickly tells the audience that Katie was in a very abusive relationship.

As with all Sparks’ novels and films, Katie falls in love with Alex (Josh Duhamel Transformers and Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!) the widowed heartthrob, who operates the local grocery store. As their relationship grows, it is torn apart by the discovery of Katie’s past. The power of love once again must overcome. Fans of the novel will truly enjoy the film, as it moves along at a good pace, just under two hours with a total running time of 115 minutes. Also, individuals who have not read the book will be presently surprised with a twist in the script that caught me off guard. Safe Haven is directed by three time Oscar nominee, Lasse Hallstrom (The Cider House Rules, My Life as a Dog). As romantic dramas go, this is one worth the price of admission.

Posted or revised on: 03-09-2013

Set in the late 1970s during the early stages of the Iran hostage crisis, Argo is about the plight of six American officials who take shelter in the Canadian ambassador’s house in Teheran after the US embassy is stormed by militant protestors. Because of the mounting possibility of being discovered and killed on the streets of Teheran for the entire world to see, the CIA decides they need to be extricated. Tony Mendez, a CIA “exfiltration” expert played by Affleck, hatches this incredible, out-of-this-world, so-ridiculous-it just-might-work plan to make a fake sci-fi movie called Argo and have the six officials pose as a Canadian film crew out location hunting. In other words, Argo is the ruse to dupe the Iranian revolutionaries and allow the officials safe passage out of Iran.

As I mentioned, Argo (the real movie, not the fake one) made me feel uncomfortable on so many levels. It transported me back to when I was 13 years old (do the math) watching the crisis unfold before my eyes on TV. Even my limited understanding of the events at that time made me feel uneasy. Affleck’s masterful storytelling is on display, shuffling from suspenseful and tension-laden moments to hilarious Hollywood scenes with John Goodman and Alan Arkin. Even the comedic moments elicit nervous laughter, not letting the viewer forget for one moment the gravity and severity of the main plot. Affleck’s brooding and skillful performance as Tony is only overshadowed by his superb directing.

In spite of the discomfort I felt while experiencing it, Argo is a movie that deserves the highest praise. It tackles an event that is every bit as relevant today as it was back then. If anything, Argo proves that Affleck as a director and storyteller has graduated to the big leagues

Posted or revised on: 03-05-2013

Les Miserables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo that was first published in 1862. It is one of the greatest and most enduring novels ever written. The story, set in early 19th century France, follows the life of an ex-convict, Jean Valjean, who failed to report to parole and as a result is relentlessly pursued for over 20 years by an obsessive policeman, Inspector Javert. So how does the most recent adaptation stack up? Well it is best compared to the 1935 version, which received four Oscar nominations. I predict even more nominations this time around, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Set Design, and Costume etc. The nomination list goes on!

Les Miserables will be in theaters on Christmas day. The film is directed by Oscar Winner Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech) and stars the multi talented Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean, Oscar Winner, Russell Crowe (A Beautiful Mind) as Javert, Oscar nominee, Anne Hathaway (Rachel Getting Married), Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!) as Cosette and Eddie Redmayne (My Week with Marilyn) as Marius. All the performances are outstanding except for Russell Crowe, who
as Javert, could be the biggest miscast in motion picture history and could cost Tom Hooper the Oscar this year. Jackman and Hathaway will receive Oscar nominations for their solid performances. Jackman will have tough competition with Daniel Day-Lewis (Lincoln) as will Ann Hathaway with Sally Field (Lincoln). I would give Hathaway the edge over Sally Field. Eddie Redmayne should receive an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Oscar. I hope he is not over looked. His performance of “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” is amazing! Redmayne is truly one of Hollywood’s must talented young actors and will win an Oscar in the future.

Les Miserables will be this year’s Christmas day most talked about movie but will the film come away the Oscar for Best Picture? That remains to be seen but Russell Crowe will not help it.

Posted or revised on: 03-04-2013

Let me begin by saying that “Lincoln” is a film that should be seen in a grand old theater such as the Orinda Theater. Set in 1865 during the final year of the American Civil War, the film deals with a very select matter of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution (outlawing slavery and involuntary servitude) and its passage through the Congress. The dilemma facing our 16th President was whether to end the War and save thousands of lives or push through the Amendment and set a moral compass to be followed for generations to come. Of course we know the decision he made, but that does not diminish the drama that unfolds and the behind the scenes shenanigans that ensue by his minions. While we may have aged as a nation in the last 147 years, it is questionable if our legislative methods of building consensus or passage of bills have changed much.

Steven Spielberg has once again directed a film that draws the viewer into each and every detail on the screen, much like a painting by one of the Masters. The main cast of Daniel Day-Lewis as Lincoln, Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens, has a combined five Oscars to their credits along with Spielberg’s three, establishing the bone fides for an instant classic. The remaining cast is well selected with each member delivering a screen presence that demonstrates a high proficiency at their art.

The 2 ½ hours of this masterpiece is almost entirely dialog driven, the script by Tony Kushner is bound to be nominated for an Oscar, its brilliance is that each character brings something of utmost importance to each scene. Lincoln was historically known for being a “story teller,” the homespun humor and his ability to bridge difficult issues and challenges through parable is evident in this film and a testament to the depth of this screenplay.

The film is rated PG-13 for intense scenes of the horrors of war, not quite on the level of those shown in the opening moments of “Saving Private Ryan” but Spielberg did obvious

Posted or revised on: 03-06-2013

Posted or revised on: 10/13/2013

Posted or revised on: 10/13/2013

Arbitrage stars Golden Globe winner Richard Gere (Chicago), Oscar winner Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking), and Oscar nominee, Tim Roth (Rob Roy). Arbitrage also screened this past weekend at the prestigious Donostia-San Sebastian International Film Festival in Spain. It is a financial thriller that will keep you moving in your seat as troubled hedge fund business owner, Robert Miller, (Richard Gere) goes to great lengths to cover up his business dealings and personal life. Susan Sarandon plays Gere’s wife. The movie portrays the greed in corporate America that is so pervasive today. It also deals with how people legally steal from others in the business world.

The movie is a thriller that moves at a quick pace, but I did not find Gere and Sarandon clicking well on screen and since they are both talented actors, one would expect more chemistry.

Posted or revised on: 03-12-2013

The Words is the best film I have seen this year. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this past January where it was purchased by CBS films for a reported $2 million and a guarantee of $1.5 million in print and advertising. This independent film is about author Rory Jansen, played by Bradley Cooper (The Hangover, Limitless), whose latest novel is a literary success. Rory is riding the wave of success. The problem is – Rory did not write it. Now amongst all the accolades he has to deal with his secret.
The cast is amazing and includes Oscar Winner Jeremy Irons (Reversal of Fortune), Dennis Quaid (Far From Heaven), Zoe Saldana (Avatar) and Olivia Wilde (People Like Us). All the performances are solid but it is the quality of the screenplay by Brian Klugman and Lee Stemthal that shines on the screen. When Rory, as a struggling writer, once again needs to borrow money from his dad, Rory says, “I need to pay my dues,” and his dad responds, “No, I need to pay your dues.” Another memorable line: “We all make choices in life but the hardest part is to live with them.” Dialogue from this film stays with you; the words have meaning and impact.
As an independent film, The Words was shot on location in Montreal but was used to depict both New York and Paris, which greatly reduced production cost. Often times these little gems of movies do not see enormous box office results because of a lack of marketing funds; they rely on word of mouth. The Words is a film that will make you think of your own life. People will be talking about the movie for days after seeing it, as they reflect on their own lives and the paths that were chosen along the way.
The Words is a must see – take my “Words” for it!

Posted or revised on: 03-12-2013