A Monumental Love Story in LOVING

Loving is based on the true story of Richard (Joel Edgerton) and Mildred (Ruth Negga) Loving, an interracial couple in 1950’s Virginia who lived in fear as a married couple while facing jail and prosecution from state laws prohibiting mixed marriages just as the Civil Rights movement loomed. It’s a remarkable story told on an intimate, human scale that chronicles what became a landmark court case that would take them all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.  The film, as written and directed by Jeff Nichols, is told in brief moments and vignettes that collectively portray a relationship and the personal sacrifice and hardship amid intolerance.  Never sensationalistic or overly dramatic, its understated nature lingers long after its sobering postscript. What shines through are stellar performances by the two leads in a love story that transcends its time. 

***1/2 of **** stars

The Tapestry of Life in ARRIVAL

Denis Villeneuve is a director on the rise (Sicario) with Arrival which reinvigorates the science fiction genre with this tale of an unknown alien presence, the memory of personal loss, and possibilities of reality.  Amy Adams (in an Oscar worthy performance) is outstanding as the language expert called in to help communicate with an ominous, humongous vessel that has also appeared in locations around the Earth. As global tensions and fear mount and military aggression is imminent, Adams desperately attempts to understand the visitors’ true purpose even as she makes a powerful, personal discovery. Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker lend strong support, and the film is beautifully shot and eerily scored. The DNA of this film comes from The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Contact, and Inception. Deliberately paced and at first ambiguous, what begins as an intergalactic codebreaking mystery morphs into a thoughtful, heartfelt allegory of human connection.

**** of **** stars

The Man from UNCLE

Robert Vaughn passed away recently, and his was a rich career for over a half century ranging from movie classics like The Magnificent Seven to Bullitt to The Towering Inferno and TV shows like The Lieutenant and The Man from UNCLE, the latter which will be fondly remembered as a super cool spy show that was TV's answer to the spy craze of James Bond. Even Ian Fleming had a character in Goldfinger named Napoleon Solo which he contributed for Vaughn's TV spy name. Growing up watching this show with my dad is a strong memory, and now we have reruns and dvd's to remind us of a talented actor (Oscar nominated and Emmy winner) whose work will live on.

The Dazzling Magic of DR. STRANGE

Marvel’s Phase Three in super hero film adaptations branches out from the real world to the realm of fantasy and wizardry in Dr. Strange, a visually stunning origins tale of redemption that is consistently entertaining and, yes, mind bending.  Adhering to the tried and true formula of Iron Man, an egotistical, self-centered surgeon (well played by Benedict Cumberbatch) has his career is cut short by a horrific car accident and subsequently searches desperately for help from the other side of the globe in the form of a wise mystic, The Ancient One (marvelously interpreted by Tilda Swinton). As he learns to heal and master other worldly powers and abilities, Strange finds that there are corrupt sorcerers like Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen in another glorious villainy romp) who seeks darker powers to destroy the earth. A strong cast including Rachel McAdams and Chiwetel Ejiofor elevates this to a well-acted, believable adventure still grounded by real emotions. There is humor sprinkled throughout and wide eyed fascination of this new world of magic, alternate realities, and other dimensions of space/ time that Marvel is introducing to its fandom. Above all else, director Scott Derrickson and the production team have creatively fashioned a world with supremely imaginative special effects that exceed The Matrix and Inception. They are Oscar worthy. Do stay for two post credit moments.

*** of **** stars (add ½ * for Marvel fans)

I love baseball, and you have to be thrilled for the Cubs erasing the 108 year old curse to finally win a thrilling World Series after being down 3 games to 1 game capped by a 7th game to go into the cardiac realm of all time greats. Ironic how the top guys who helped Boston erase their curse, manager Terry Francona goes to lead Cleveland and GM Theo Epstein builds a champion in Chicago going head to head. Very happy for the Chicago fans and the memory of all those great Cub players like Banks, Santos, Jenkins and Holy Cow, the late, great Harry Caray! Oh, and "It does matter" to Bill Murray!

INFERNO and the End of the World

Inferno, the third adaptation of Dan Brown’s intricate mythological and historical mysteries led by his protagonist, Robert Langdon, is a reasonably entertaining adventure that begins with disturbing imagery and the threat of global annihilation as it crisscrosses European locales.  Tom Hanks lends a credible presence as an amnesiac Langdon who is the key to unraveling a plot that harkens back to The Plague, and he is aided in his search for answers by a female doctor (Felicity Jones). As the pair is pursued by unknown, deadly forces, there are some startling twists and turns that climaxes in a tense, race against the clock. Inferno is about on par with Angels and Demons which about says it all. It worked for me as someone who has not read any of Brown’s novels, but I have seen some TV shows that generated a bit more tension and excitement.

**1/2 of **** stars

MidAtlantic Nostalgia Convention Strikes Again

The annual MidAtlantic Nostalgia Convention was another impressive display of movie/TV memorabilia with a mixture of new and old vendors selling posters, comics, dvd’s,  games, and much more. 

It was an opportunity to finally welcome actor Robert Conrad who has been sought after for years to visit Baltimore.  Conrad was extremely popular with constant long lines of fans who showered him with adoration for a long career especially on TV’s The Wild Wild West. I got a photo with the man and told how I grew up watching the show with my dad and how we loved his work and stunts.  Actor Robert Fuller made his fame in TV westerns like Laramie and as a doctor in Emergency. His lines were surprisingly huge and he was wonderful with his fans.

Other stars included two Bond girls, Britt Ekland (The Man with the Golden Gun) and Luciana Paluzzi (Thunderball) who were often posing in tandem for photos with loyal fans. Likewise were Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood the stars of 2001: A Space Odyssey.  I remember my dad worked for the  Naval Research Lab, and we were invited as a family to see the premiere of 2001 at the Uptown Theater. Lockwood said that was actually the world premiere. Kent McCord (Adam 12) was terrific with fans as was Kathy Garver (Family Affair) who was just as exuberant as her character Cissy.  There were several other celebrities including mentalist, Kreskin, and TV favorite, Bernie Kopell.

The folks behind this convention always do such a nice job of creating an experience for fans and we can’t wait for next year’s lineup. Thanks to Laura who had her vendor table buzzing.

SULLY and the Essence of a Hero

Sully, the dramatization of Captain “Sully” Sullenberger’s amazing water landing of a passenger jet in the Hudson River when both engines failed at once, serves as a jumping point for a deeper story of the subsequent NTSB investigation of the contradicting evidence of why the plane did not attempt an airport landing.  It is a fascinating, sobering examination of the possibility of human error and self-doubt that creeps into what should have been a celebration of courage under fire.  Reminiscent of films like Fate Is the Hunter and Courage Under Fire, where the narrative flashes back and forth with different points of view, the film is very much a study in the nature of heroism.  Tom Hanks is a wonderful embodiment of Sully while Aaron Eckhart gives good support as co-pilot Jeff Skiles. The actual flight is effectively rendered in great detail by director Clint Eastwood who never fails to maintain the human element that culminates in a powerful, emotional resolution. Well done.     

*** of **** stars

Third Time is the Charm in Star Trek Beyond

Star Trek Beyond is a thrilling space adventure that takes us on the third year of The Enterprise’s five year mission as the crew is sent on a rescue mission that becomes a struggle for survival against a lethal enemy.  Justin Lin (Fast and Furious) gives the franchise an energy boost with cast member Simon Pegg collaborating on a sharp screenplay that honors the original TV series with its vision of a hopeful, diverse universe (and emulating its retro uniforms) while reveling in the new cast’s strong chemistry and comaraderie.  Idris Elba plays a mighty, nasty villain with an interesting past, and while one wishes the film followed through on a couple situations and subplots that could have elevated this to a great film, what we have is an entertaining mix of action and character interaction that compares favorably with J. J. Abrams’ reboot of Star Trek and should delight most Trekkie fans.  Poignant, sentimental moments at the end are punctuated by noting the passing of Leonard Nimoy (original Spock) and Anton Yelchin (reboot Chekov).

SciFi Fandom on Display at Shore Leave 38

Shore Leave 38 in Hunt Valley, MD was another gathering of Star Trek and scifi fans in general with many fans dressed as their favorite character from Dr. Who, Star Wars, and Trekkies etc. There were plenty of vendors with memorabilia and art items with movie tie-ins. Of the several genre stars of TV shows and film, John Noble (Fringe) was the most notable, Karen Gillan (Gauradians of the Galaxy), and Anthony Montgomery (Star Trek:Enterprise) who talked about his first auditions for TV. It was a fun event as usual for fandom.

Friendships Tested in CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR

Captain America: Civil War, inspired by the Marvel comic book arc, spins it into a darker, complex, character study of bromance and loyalty.  It is the deepest, most thoughtful super hero film since The Dark Knight, the most entertaining since The Avengers, and is a worthy followup to the excellent The Winter Soldier.  There has never been a multi-starring super hero film so well balanced while showcasing every major cast member. (Batman Vs Superman: Dawn of Justice should take notes on how to do this kind of mashup.)

Due to past battles by the Avengers that resulted in massive, human loss, there are international laws to control the super heroes which brings brothers in arms, Captain America and Iron Man (Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr are great), on opposite sides, each with legitimate, compelling viewpoints. To complicate things further, the Winter Soldier is apparently implicated in a series of devastating attacks that test loyalties and friendships. The well written screenplay, which shifts among many locations, culminates in a couple of outstanding battles amongst our heroes against one another including an all-out, multi-hero faceoff  at an airport (worth the price of admission), and a brutal, climactic beat down loaded with emotional angst. All the while a mysterious figure is orchestrating events as our heroic group is disassembled.

There are tantalizing introductions of The Black Panther and Spiderman who have substantial roles. Part of the fun is watching various matchups and combinations of the heroes displaying their super abilities; the fight choreography is outstanding. The film surprisingly works on an intimate level-it never forgets the thread of Cap and his best buddy, Bucky (the Winter Soldier). While the average viewer may simply finds this a well-orchestrated piece of fantasy entertainment, the film works best for Marvel fans in terms of continuity and canon;  It does function as Avengers 2.5, but at its heart, it is the grandest Captain America film to date.  Well directed by the Russo brothers. (There are also two significant post credit scenes and a Stan Lee cameo to savor.) 

**** of **** stars (for Marvel fans)

 

The Magic Is Missing in My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2

So I did see My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 and it was nowhere as magical and special as the first film even though virtually every character makes a reappearance albeit older and not quite as original or funny. The script early on seems less fresh and the jokes don't quite work as the story parallels three subplots: the grandparents' marriage, Toula (Nia Vardalos) and Ian's (John Corbett) marriage, and their teenage daughter ready for college and romance. There are moments here and there that are appealing especially when things coalesce nicely at the end that make you wish the whole film had that vibe. Sweet, and good natured, it is nothing quite like its predecessor.

My Sweet Patty

I can't believe Patty Duke has died at 69. It was something anyone could have experienced and succumbed, but it is still hard to wrap my head around. I grew up with her on TV (Patty Duke Show, My Sweet Charlie) and movies (The Miracle Worker), and met her at the MidAtlantic Nostalgia Convention several years ago. I have to tell you she was friendly, warm and engaging-a genuine person. She made you... feel good just meeting her. A lot of celebrities have passed away recently like the precious comedian,Gary Shandling, who I saw in person at a very early comedy club standup in L.A., and it goes to show that life is short and you should treasure the memories and relationships while forging ahead and living a good life.

A New World of Heroes in BATMAN VS SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE

DC Comics’ bid to expand its super hero universe and emulate rival Marvel’s stratospheric success was a huge financial gamble coming on the heels of the satisfactory Man of Steel.  With the same director who also did Watchmen, it remained to be seen if this could be the launch of several movie franchises particularly The Justice League. The verdict is yes, it achieves that goal but with a mixed bag of great moments highlighted by haunting imagery and some scenes that never quite hit their mark.  The problem lies partly in an ambitious storyline that tries to accomplish a bit too much thematically and introduce new Metahuman heroes while trying to connect a lot of dots despite its running time is 2 ½ hours.

Similar in plot to the upcoming Captain America:Civil War, it picks up the previous film’s battle that caused massive destruction (and personal loss for Bruce Wayne, extremely well played by Ben Affleck) and leads to the government to think about Superman (Henry Cavill) as a potential threat. As mysterious industrialist Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg is a hoot) assimilates Kryptonian technology and more, an elaborate conspiracy threatens Superman’s loved ones and pits him in a one on one battle with Batman (who is pretty clever and well- armed.)  As the titans do a battle royale, a formidable threat emerges, and a new hero arrives in Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot in a cool, different take). 

The film’s moody tone might be a bit too dark for some; there is a severe lack of humor or anything to balance the sense of pessimism.  There is, however, much to savor in some good action and visual effects including one startling, shocking scene in Washington DC.  Nice support from Amy Adams, Jeremy Irons, and Laurence Fishburne and some nice cameos. (No, there is no post credit scene.) I would put this almost on par with Avengers:Age of Ultron, only longer.   

*** of **** stars (for comic hero fans)

2016 OSCAR PREDICTIONS FOR 2015 FILMS

OK, I have seen all eight best picture nominees and a few other titles but not all.  There are very likely surprises in a couple major categories.  Enjoy!

PICTURE-3 way race among The Revenant, The Big Short, and Spotlight- Momentum and timing are everything so The Revenant by a snowflake-hoping for Spotlight.                              

ACTOR-Leonardo DiCaprio in The Revenant

ACTRESS-Brie Larson in Room

SUPPORTING ACTOR-Sylvester Stallone in Creed but I loved Mark Rylance in Bridge of Spies.    

SUPPORTING ACTRESS-A good year for Alicia Vikander in The Danish Girl (The Man from UNCLE and Ex Machina) although Kate Winslet in Steve Jobs is a possibility.

DIRECTOR-Alejandro G. Iñárritu for The Revenant over deserved George Miller for Mad Max:Fury Road.

ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY-Spotlght

ADAPTED SCREENPLAY-The Big Short

ANIMATED FEATURE-Inside Out

FILM EDITING-Mad Max:Fury Road

CINEMATOGRAPHY-The Revenant 

PRODUCTION DESIGN-Max Mad:Fury Road

ORIGINAL SCORE-The Hateful Eight

ORIGINAL SONG-Til It Happens To You from The Hunting Ground

SOUND EDITING-Mad Max:Fury Road                                             

SOUND MIXING- Mad Max:Fury Road                                             

COSTUME DESIGN-Cinderella

MAKEUP & HAIRSTYLING- Mad Max:Fury Road                                              

VISUAL EFFECTS-Star Wars:The Force Awakens but a sweep by Mad Max:Fury Road might happen

FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM-Son of Saul                                                                                           

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE-Amy

Various SHORTS-who cares?

Figure Mad Max will get a ton of Tech awards, some very good films may be shutout like The Martian, Bridge of Spies, Brooklyn, and Carol.

Life Decisions in BROOKLYN

Brooklyn is one of the best films of 2015. Set in the early 1950s, a young Irish woman named Eilis, immigrates to New York City in America to find a new life. There she learns about the world and its culture, and she finds love and a sense of self through her growing pains. As she explores her new life, she is pulled by her family ties to Ireland. It’s an emotional film not unlike coming of age films like I Remember Mama and An Education. What's remarkable is Eilis’ character growth from naïve and lonely to self-assured and experienced. As Eilis, Soairse Ronan (Atonement) is a revelation in capturing the accent, body movement, and soul of a young woman in the big city. (She will be an acting force for years to come.) Very solid support by Jim Broadbent and Julie Walters. Beautifully shot, the details of period recreation and a peek into the bonds of an Irish family would make director John Ford (The Quiet Man) proud. It’s a sentimental, nostalgic film of another period of time, but it rings true in any age.

 What sets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected the trifecta. of Gravity.) Matt Damon shines in a role that is demanding physically and emotionally as the ill fated astronaut marooned on Mars who must find resourceful ways to grow his food and much more. (You will never look at a new plant the same way again.)
What sets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected the trifecta. e of Gravity.) Matt Damon shines in a role that is demanding physically and emotionally as the ill fated astronaut marooned on Mars who must find resourceful ways to grow his food and much more. (You will never look at a new plant the same way again.)
What sets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected th
ets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected the trifecta. of Gravity.) Matt Damon shines in a role that is demanding physically and emotionally as the ill fated astronaut marooned on Mars who must find resourceful ways to grow his food and much more. (You will never look at a new plant the same way again.)
What sets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected the trifecta. e of Gravity.) Matt Damon shines in a role that is demanding physically and emotionally as the ill fated astronaut marooned on Mars who must find resourceful ways to grow his food and much more. (You will never look at a new plant the same way again.)
What sets this film apart from others is its sheer goodwill in emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity of experts who want to do right. There are also no villains here, and that in itself is refreshing. The filmmakers have also painstakingly made this film scientifically plausible.
Scott has previously made two of the greatest scifi movies, Alien and Blade Runner. With this, he has perfected the trif