Tag Archives: Independent Drama

1996 Films, Allison Janney, Campbell Scott, Comedy, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Isabella Rossellini, Liev Schreiber, Minnie Driver, Peter McRobbie, Stanley Tucci, Tony Shalhoub

Big Night-1996

December 16, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Big Night-1996

Director Stanley Tucci, Campbell Scott

Starring Stanley Tucci, Tony Shalhoub

Scott’s Review #300

Reviewed December 16, 2015

Grade: B+

Big Night (1996) is a sweet, whimsical little film that is a food lover’s dream come true since that is the focal point of the story with more than one dish being prepared on-screen giving it realism.

It centers on the restaurant business and, specifically, how two brothers struggle to keep their failing restaurant afloat through their love and passion for food.

The story tells of two Italian immigrant brothers, Primo and Secondo, played by Tony Shalhoub and Stanley Tucci, respectively.

The time is the 1950s and they reside in blue-collar New Jersey. Times are tough for them as they try to succeed in the difficult restaurant business- they specialize in Italian food of course.

Secondo is a playboy of sorts- suave and handsome, he dates Phyllis (Minnie Driver) while galavanting with a sophisticated older woman named Gabriela, the wife of a competitor.

Primo, on the other hand, is quiet, and serious, yet an all-star chef. The food he prepares is wonderful and his talent is evident.

But how can they market themselves to be successful?

At this point, their restaurant is dying and they risk being reduced to returning to Italy or eke out a meager existence working for someone else.

An idea is announced to have a celebrity singer (Louis Prima) perform for a one-night extravaganza at their restaurant, where they will make the meal of their lives and impress the town, thus achieving success.

The film is charming and my favorite parts are on the “big night”. As the duo prepared the liquor order and shopped for flowers and other decorations in preparation, the mood and spirit left me with a warm feeling.

What a sense of togetherness Primo and Secondo, along with friends, felt to achieve this challenging goal. Inevitably, there is tension between the brothers, and between Secondo and Phyllis, but truthfully, these are merely sub-plots, and the heart of the film is in the food.

The scenes that take place in the kitchen left my mouth watering. As Secondo prepares a baked pasta dish (Timpano), the meal oozes with love and tastiness. The entire story arc is grand and magnificent.

The group of diners revels in the dining room of the restaurant enjoying spirits and dancing the night away. By morning everyone is full and drunk, both with love and alcohol, but most are happy. They get merry as they eat the night away.

I could almost taste the main course!

A subplot that works for me is the burgeoning romance between reserved Primo and equally reserved flower shop owner, Ann. Both very timid, they finally muster the courage to admit their feelings for each other while enjoying (what else?) wine and food- what better way to begin a romance?

The tenderness and chemistry between these two are very innocent and captivated me while watching the film.

The final scene of the brothers making an omelet is also wonderful and a fitting way to stress togetherness and perseverance, which is what the small film is really about.

For lovers of food, Big Night (1996) is a shining moment.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Male Lead-Tony Shalhoub, Stanley Tucci, Best First Screenplay (won), Best First Feature

2014 Films, Anja Marquardt, Brooke Bloom, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Marc Menchaca

She’s Lost Control-2014

December 14, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

She’s Lost Control-2014

Director Anja Marquardt

Starring Brooke Bloom

Scott’s Review #299

Reviewed December 14, 2015

Grade: B+

She’s Lost Control (2015) is a dark, independent drama, and the directorial debut of Anja Marquardt.

This film is one reason I proudly support independent film, as it is otherwise a film that most would not know about, and will never know about, if not for good word of mouth and award recognition- think indie spirit awards.

Hopefully, Marquardt will one day be a household name.

The film is heavy yet intriguing and a character study.

It is a dark and dreary experience- some might argue depressing, centering on Ronah (Brooke Bloom)- a young, female, college student, aspiring towards her master’s degree in psychology, who works as a sexual surrogate in Manhattan.

The film explores her experiences with various clients, specifically, a disturbed, volatile man she takes on as a client. As she becomes better acquainted with Johnny, they forge a special bond, but will romantic feelings and jealousy get in the way of the therapy assigned to both parties?

How each of them explores their feelings is the focal point of the tale, and clearly, the feelings involved are not peaches and cream.

Ronah is not a prostitute and there is very little sex that goes on, albeit the implication is there. She is nurturing and emotionally invested and intends to become a psychiatrist one day.

It is unclear whether her “boss”, a shady seeming character, is her pimp or simply an employer. His role and motivations are unclear.

The most interesting aspect of the film is the title and throughout my viewing of the film I wondered about the title more and more- are any of Ronah’s experiences in her mind? Is she stable or does she have some emotional or mental issues?

She befriends a kind neighbor around her age and invites her for dinner- they bond. The neighbor invites her out to dance, but Ronah declines.

She also has an older female confidant- a former surrogate who gives Ronah tips and suggestions. Still, Ronah is lonely.

Again we wonder if perhaps all is not what it seems. This is a fascinating aspect of the story. One must watch to determine the answers to questions such as these.

New York City can be a tough, unkind world and She’s Lost Control does not sugar coat an individual’s difficult existence when not blessed with family money, strings, or some other advantage.

Ronah lives in a dump with holes in her shower and cramped quarters. In addition to the hardships, she is constantly kept abreast of problems concerning her brother and mother back home in upstate New York.

Quite simply, Ronah is overwhelmed by her life. Might she be spinning out of control?

The dreary aspect of the film is not so much the sexual aspect. Ronah is a therapist and everything is with mutual consent. Unfortunately, she is challenged by some of the people she encounters in her profession.

I admire She’s Lost Control (2014) quite a bit for its insight, thoughtfulness, and compelling story of a woman with a difficult life, trying to make ends meet, and aspiring to something worthwhile.

She is brave, troubled, and interesting all rolled up in one fascinating lead character.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best First Screenplay, Best First Feature

2015 Films, Best Feature- Independent Spirit Award Winners, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Billy Crudup, Biography, Brian d'Arcy James, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Jamey Sheridan, John Slattery, Liev Schreiber, Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Neal Huff, Paul Guilfoyle, Rachel McAdams, Richard Jenkins, Stanley Tucci, Tom McCarthy

Spotlight-2015

December 9, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Spotlight-2015

Director Thomas McCarthy

Starring Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams

Scott’s Review #294

Reviewed December 9, 2015

Grade: B+

Spotlight (2015) is a film with an important story to tell.

A telling of true events that occurred within the Catholic Archdiocese for ages, Spotlight’s focus is specifically on the Boston scandals, as a team of reporters working for the Boston Globe uncovered and exposed a multitude of child molestation cases committed by priests.

They were subsequently covered up, leaving victims paid off to keep quiet. The number of proven cases in Boston alone is staggering.

Starring are a plethora of talents including Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, and Rachel McAdams, who lead the pack.

They make up the “Spotlight” team at the newspaper, an investigative unit that works on special stories as they arise.

Their new boss, Marty Baron (ironically a Jewish man), played compellingly by Liev Schrieber, takes over as head of the department. He quizzically asks why the story is not already a priority. Suddenly it is a hot-burner issue and the film delves into an investigation to uncover the facts.

Spotlight is a minimalist film. There is nothing cinematically unique or razzle-dazzle about it, but somehow that is okay.

In some aspects, the film reminds me of the 1975 thriller All The Presidents Men, starring Dustin Hoffman.

For instance, the bleak, bare news rooms-sterile in their look, are similar- cubicle after cubicle, harsh lighting, and generic conference rooms.

This is the filmmaker’s intent.

Also, the fast, energetic pacing, successfully emitting the tight deadlines newspaper folks face, transfers perfectly on film.

The sexual abuse scandal is a cold, harsh reality and the film introduces several victims, who, now as adults, are forever scarred. Some attend support groups, some take drugs, one is sadly not “all there”. Another, now a gay man, was singled out by a priest during a vulnerable period in the then-young boy’s, life.

It is a heartbreaking reality that many victims in the film are based on real cases.

Let’s focus on Schrieber’s character for a minute. He gives such an understated yet compelling performance there is a risk it will wind up being overlooked. He calmly, yet passionately initiates the case. It is not a showy performance and subdued but a compelling one if enough attention is paid to it. He is a standout.

Unfortunately, the film does not delve much into the defense (if any) of the Catholic church. Did they do anything but deny the allegations? Why were the victims paid off? Not much is noted from the church’s point of view.

In real life, the Catholic church did hide the abuse that transpired for decades.

A slight negative is that the film does not delve into the characters’ personal lives.

Michael Keaton’s character, Robby Robinson, is arguably the lead character, spearheading the case, though very little is known about him.

Is he married? happily? Yes, he is a workaholic, but what else?

Ruffalo’s Michael Rezendes is separated from his wife, but little is known to the reasons.

Finally, McAdam’s Sacha is probably the most fleshed-out. She is happily married, close with her religious grandmother, and hurt by the scandal. But we do not know her in-depth either.

I found myself wanting to know more about these people.

All in all, Spotlight (2015) is a superior film deserving of the recognition it is receiving. Intense, gritty, and filled with honesty, it is a story that needed to be told and has been told well.

Oscar Nominations: 2 wins-Best Picture (won), Best Director-Tom McCarthy, Best Supporting Actor-Mark Ruffalo, Best Supporting Actress-Rachel McAdams, Best Original Screenplay (won), Best Film Editing

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 5 wins-Best Feature (won), Best Director-Tom McCarthy (won), Best Screenplay (won), Best Editing (won), Robert Altman Award (won)

2013 Films, Drama, Eliza Hittman, Gina Piersanti, Independent, Independent Drama

It Felt Like Love-2013

October 17, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

It Felt Like Love-2013

Director Eliza Hittman

Starring Gina Piersanti

Scott’s Review #283

Reviewed October 17, 2015

Grade: B

It Felt Like Love is a small, independent film from 2013, that garnered two Independent Spirit awards for its efforts.

A coming of age story encompassing a vulnerable and naïve fourteen-year-old girl, aware of her budding sexuality and developing a crush on an older rebellious boy.

Quiet and subdued, the film tells an honest story of a young girl’s emotional struggles surrounding jealousy, loneliness, and fitting in.

Lila is a typical teenager living in New York City in what appears to be a blue-collar area of Brooklyn. Lila emulates her seemingly more mature (she is turning sixteen), and much more sexually experienced best friend, Chiara.

Never without a boyfriend, and very popular, Chiara gains the attention of almost every boy she is around.

One day on the beach, a handsome friend of Chiara’s, named Sammy, passes by, when Chiara describes him as “sleeping with anyone”, Lila becomes fixated on him. As she pursues him relentlessly, she puts herself in precarious situations and gets in way over her head.

Throughout this drama, Lila’s best male friend and neighbor, a child-like and innocent-looking kid contrasts perfectly with the rugged, older Sammy.

Lila has two “men” in her life, who could not be further opposites. The neighbor kid represents her youth, and Sammy, her adulthood, and she is stuck somewhere in the middle, wrestling between the two stages of her life.

The film is the debut of acclaimed director, Eliza Hittman, who weaves an interesting and true-to-life premise. The feelings and emotions of a fourteen-year-old girl are powerful and often involve risk-taking without any thoughts of repercussion.

Liza is extremely vulnerable as anyone her age is, especially since the film reveals that she has recently lost her mother to breast cancer. Her father is a caring yet no-nonsense type and is written well- as a typical blue-collar father would act-.

The standout to me is the actress who plays Lila, Gina Piersanti. What a marvel! The youngster brilliantly portrays a range of emotions- gloominess, insecurity, and annoyance.

She is insecure but intelligent and savvy for her age. Her obsession for Sammy, clearly from the wrong side of the tracks, is dangerous, as he smokes pot regularly, parties, and works in a pool hall.

He ultimately is not for her and I think Lila knows this deep down. But at her age, she is craving attention and sexually blooming.

All of the actors in the film are newcomers and do a fantastic job of relaying honesty. Lila’s motivations are not always clear, but then again, she is a teenager- moods and motivations change with the weather.

During one powerful scene, Lila hangs out at Sammy’s apartment (where she usually can be found and is perceived as a pest). Sammy and his two friends are smoking pot and watching basketball on television.

Somehow, the subject matter turns to oral sex. As Sammy’s friends eagerly accept Lila’s awkward offer to pleasure them, Sammy rebuffs her advances and says that his “privates” do not like her. This seems to bring acceptance to Lila to leave him alone.

The audience hopes she musters her self-esteem and goes on with her life. The showing of full-frontal male nudity was surprising to me- very seldom is this shown in American cinema.

Interestingly, we never actually see Lila engage in any sexual activity- the point of the film is that she wants to desperately, but we cringe as we fear for the worst in each dangerous sexual encounter she experiences.

Perhaps it could have been further developed or fleshed out, but, It Felt Like Love (2013) is a truthful, quiet film with powerful acting and writing from new talent sure to be around for years to come, with the wonderful skills they possess.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Cinematography

2015 Films, Comedy, Drama, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, Judy Greer, Julia Garner, Laverne Cox, Lily Tomlin, Marcia Gay Harden, Paul Weitz, Sam Elliott

Grandma-2015

September 21, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Grandma-2015

Director Paul Weitz

Starring Lily Tomlin, Marcia Gay Harden

Scott’s Review #275

Reviewed September 21, 2015

Grade: B+

Grandma (2015) is clearly and deservedly, a showcase for the talented and interesting legendary Hollywood actress Lily Tomlin.

Years (twenty-seven to be precise) since she has had a starring turn in a film, the role of Grandma is custom-made for Tomlin, with the character’s sarcasm, wit, and downright bluntness emerging to the forefront.

The film is labeled a comedy/drama, which it is. It’s themed around a heavy topic of abortion and runs the risk of offending pro-life individuals, as the film undoubtedly contains a pro-choice slant.

Ellie (Tomlin) is a poet and former college professor in her seventies living in California. She is a lesbian and is mourning the recent death of her long-time partner. She has recently been dating a lovely young woman named Olivia (played by Judy Greer), whom she unceremoniously, and cruelly dumps, referring to Olivia as little more than a footnote in her life.

Afterward, Ellie breaks down in tears of guilt while showering.

One day her granddaughter, Sage, (her daughter Judy being the product of a one-night stand), appears on her doorstep asking for money for an abortion. Having just paid off her debts and destroyed her credit cards, Ellie is therefore broke.

The duo embarks on a quest for cash, and race against time to make the appointment in time for the scheduled procedure.

The film belongs to Tomlin but is enhanced by excellent supporting turns, specifically by Marcia Gay Harden as daughter Judy, and veteran actor Sam Elliot, as Ellie’s former flame Karl, to cite examples.

Judy and Ellie have experienced a tumultuous relationship their entire lives while Karl harbors resentment for Ellie for long-ago aborting their child. Harden is thrilling as a borderline, one-dimensional bitch character.

She is driven, angry, and self-centered, and it is mentioned that she has gone through numerous administrative assistants in her high-level corporate role.

I have not seen Harden in a role quite like this before. As unsympathetic as the character is, one cannot help wondering if Ellie’s mothering skills may have made Judy turn out this way.

Karl on the other hand is sympathetic. He is still wounded from his ages-ago relationship with Ellie and may still hold a flame for her, as unlikely a romance between them would be.

The film is darker than expected and is not the syrupy, mainstream, family story one might expect from the fuzzy one-word title.

Still, Tomlin’s cantankerous, sarcasm kept me in stitches and perfectly balanced the tough subject matter displayed in Grandma.

The relationships between the main characters are complex and tough to watch as they argue, swear, and insult each other.

Love is mixed in but complexities arise due to the controversial subject matter. The history of and, in many cases, painful memories are dredged up between characters.

Impressively, Grandma is not a film that debates the hot-button issue of abortion as one might assume. Sage never really considers keeping her baby and will have the procedure done as quickly as possible. Ellie and Judy never try to persuade Sage to keep the child nor does Sage seriously contemplate keeping the baby.

The only instance of a pro-life perspective is when two ridiculous characters- a young mother and her ten-year-old daughter- suggest Sage not kill her baby. When Ellie steps in the young girl punches her in the face. Is this intended as comic relief or to make these characters appear as buffoons?

These characters are laughable.

The father of Sage’s baby is unsympathetic and a very minor blip on the radar. My theory is that the film chooses to go this route intentionally to avoid a debate over the abortion issue.

A debate is not the point, but the relationships between the characters are.

The scenes involving Ellie becoming irritated and sarcastic are priceless, successfully utilizing Tomlin. As she hilariously goes from situation to situation in an attempt to earn the $600 for Sage she resorts to various means as diverse as selling books, giving a kiss, or collecting an old debt.

This is the main draw of the witty little film, Grandma (2015).

2014 Films, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Dennis Haysbert, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Justin Simien, Kyle Gallner, Satire, Tessa Thompson, Teyonah Parris, Tyler James Williams

Dear White People-2014

September 18, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Dear White People-2014

Director Justin Simien

Starring Tyler James Williams, Tessa Thompson

Scott’s Review #274

Reviewed September 18, 2015

Grade: B+

Dear White People (2014) is a highly creative, independent satire that begs to be watched for no reason other than for its message of existing racism in present times, homophobia, and class distinction.

Set at an Ivy League college and written tongue and cheek, but also with a direct message from newly discovered director Justin Simien, it is a meaningful gem that challenges audiences to think and be entertained and emit an occasional chuckle at the wit and comical lines presented.

Set in the present day- assuming 2013 or 2014, and well beyond the Civil Rights era, the film features a hip, sharp look and a myriad of characters, all with differing perspectives, all Caucasian or black in racial identities.

All the characters attend the affluent and sophisticated Winchester University, a mostly white, conservative school with a small community of black students, who curiously all seem to reside in the same dorm house.

In addition, the Dean is a black man (played by Dennis Haysbert).

Sam White is a rebellious female student, of mixed race, who runs a radio show entitled “Dear White People”, which challenges the current state of racism in America, specifically at Winchester University.

Supporting characters include Lionel Higgins, a gay, bookish student with an enormous afro, excluded from almost all the sub-groups. Lionel is intrigued by Sam’s radio show.

Other characters include Coco- an attractive black girl with typically “white” mannerisms and friends, who try to fit in with the white culture. Troy, a very handsome black student (who tries to act “white”), dates a white girl (who tries to act “black”).

Finally, the film features Kirk, a white student whose father is the school president, who values an old-style way of thinking. Kirk, shockingly, hosts a blackface party, which leads to major controversy at the school and is the focus of much of the film’s drama.

The main theme is race, but different characters have different viewpoints on the subject matter, and all are explored, which makes the film unique and interesting.

Sam, for example, is a true advocate for racial equality and constantly challenges white people’s motivations and actions, blatantly so.

Coco, on the other hand, is resistant to being stereotyped as a woman of color and, in one scene is incorrectly assumed to be from the hood by a reality television producer she is auditioning for.

She is envious of white people and the advantages they have, even going so far as having straight hair and blue contact lenses. Then we have Lionel, who is both gay and black, and considered an outcast. He fits in with no group and curiously seems okay with being his own person.

What is unique and compelling about Dear White People is that it brings up a controversial issue, mixes it in satire, humorously, but presents compelling arguments against stereotypes, also bringing those stereotypes center stage, which most films avoid like the plague.

One black character is frustrated that, in their mind, most black people are content watching dumb black comedies, thereby supporting a negative racial stereotype.

One interesting aspect regarding the score is the use of lily-white classic film music- such as Barry Lyndon (1975)- the most lily-white of lily-white films (British and Irish).

Famous film director, Quentin Tarantino, is called out as being a racist director. What wonderful irony!

Dear White People (2014) is a witty, intelligent slice of inventive filmmaking that is worth seeing if only for its controversial subject of inequality and racism, which is too often forgotten.

An indie treat for those inclined to think a little.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best First Screenplay (won), Best First Feature

2015 Films, Bill Camp, Bill Pohlad, Biography, Drama, Elizabeth Banks, Independent, Independent Drama, John Cusack, Musical, Musical Drama, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti

Love and Mercy-2015

July 17, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Love and Mercy-2015

Director Bill Pohlad

Starring John Cusack, Paul Dano

Scott’s Review #258

Reviewed July 17, 2015

Grade: B+

The life and times of the Beach Boys’ famous and troubled lead singer, Brian Wilson, is finally played out on the big screen (apparently many attempts were made to make a film) as Love and Mercy (2015) chronicles his difficult upbringing, unrivaled success, and his interesting life in later years.

He suffered from schizophrenia, traveled down a paranoid, nervous path, and was manipulated by a family friend who served as his doctor and main caregiver.

Thankfully, he weathered the storm due to his future wife, and remarkably still performs and entertains in 2015.

His musical career began in the 1960s.

The biopic features many well-known Beach Boys tunes to hum along to and be entertained by. It’s not a happy film nor a downer either.

It’s somewhere in the middle of the two and the life story of a rock star.

There is a risk in this. If the film is too sentimental it will fail. Love and Mercy do it correctly.

The film is not a sing-along, trip-down-memory lane film for lighthearted film fans. Rather, it is dark, murky, and troubling at times (the psychedelic scene when a young Brian is imagining different voices and noises in his head is rather frightening).

Wilson is played by two actors, first in the 1960s and later in the 1980s.

Paul Dano stars as a young Wilson in the early stages of his career, filled with passion for life, art, music, and talent beyond belief, but clearly in the onset stages of paranoia, thanks to his critical father. He is a demanding, angry man, possibly envious of Brian’s talents as a songwriter, who always wanted more from Brian.

Wilson’s father managed Brian and his brothers success but at a huge cost, and was ready to bail when the “next big thing” came along.

Miraculously, through conflict with his father and other members, Wilson completed the Beach Boys masterpiece, Pet Sounds, a groundbreaking album from the late 1960s. The film shows the struggles faced to achieve this success.

In later years John Cusack takes over the role of Brian. By this point in his life, he is damaged and he is a full-blown neurotic, insecure, and dependent on his psychotherapist, Dr. Landy, brilliantly played by Paul Giamatti.

Landy has control of Wilson’s assets and will destroy anyone who interferes in this.

The scenes in which he screams at and berates a drugged-out Brian Wilson to create music are tough to stomach. When Wilson romances their future wife Melinda Ledbetter, played by Elizabeth Banks, she ultimately saves his life as she is determined to rescue Brian from the wicked abuse and adjust the toxic levels of medications he was kept on.

I left the movie theater unsure of the factual accuracy and pondered the following questions.

Did Brian’s wife swoop into his life and “save” him as neatly as the film explains? How instrumental was the maid in this process? Was the Wilson brothers’ father as much a monster as the movie portrayed him? Was Giamatti’s vicious psychotherapist role true to life or were the aspects of Love and Mercy embellished ever so slightly for moviemaking magic?

One wonders, but from a film perspective, Love and Mercy (2015) works well as a work that takes risks, does not go for softness or niceness, and gives a character study that is quite admirable.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Supporting Male-Paul Dano

2014 Films, Alessandro Nivola, André Holland, Ava DuVernay, Carmen Ejogo, Colman Domingo, Common, Cuba Gooding Jr., David Oyelowo, Drama, Dylan Baker, Giovanni Ribisi, Historical Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Jeremy Strong, LaKeith Stanfield, Martin Sheen, Niecy Nash, Oprah Winfrey, Stephan James, Stephen Root, Tessa Thompson, Tim Roth, Tom Wilkinson, Wendell Pierce

Selma-2014

June 19, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Selma-2014

Director Ava DuVernay

Starring David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo

Scott’s Review #248

Reviewed June 19, 2015

Grade: A-

An Oscar-nominated factual feast, set in the mid-1960s during the Civil Rights movement, Selma (2014) is a re-telling of the life and times of Martin Luther King Jr. and the struggles that black Americans endured during a tumultuous period in history.

The film includes dealings with then-President Lyndon B. Johnson and the famous and important 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights march, which led to the signing of the pivotal Voting Rights Act of 1965.

This film reminded me quite a bit of 2013’s The Butler in subject matter and style-ironic since Lee Daniels was slated to direct and instead signed on for The Butler.

Both feature a charismatic and intelligent black man struggling with racial matters.

Despite being an independent undertaking, it is glossy, polished, and reflective of the time. Both The Butler and Selma boast a huge cast, and historical political figures, in a tumultuous era in history.

Selma features a bevy of real-life figures from George Wallis to President Johnson to the obvious leader of the Civil Rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr., and his wife, Coretta Scott King, and the casting is very well thought out.

Tim Roth, David Oyelowo, Tom Wilkinson, and Carmen Ejogo portray their roles professionally and passionately. None of the above received Oscar nominations and I am okay with that.

I did not feel that any were definite standouts from a crowded field of talent, though perhaps Ejogo could have been in the running with her understated though compelling performance.

The drama surrounding the lack of expected Oscar nominations is not shared by me. The truth is, the film was included in the Best Picture category and won Best Song.

While an emotional and compelling film, neither is it a masterpiece nor will change the art of cinema, though I must stress it is good.

I find Selma to be an important film- a look back on history and the shame and humiliation placed on blacks who attempted to obtain voting rights. A heartbreaking scene depicts a determined woman (played by Oprah Winfrey) being denied this right by a cold and racist authority figure as she is asked impossible and tricky questions to prove her patriotism, which of course, she cannot possibly answer correctly.

Yes, the film is directed by a black, female director (Ava DuVernay) and yes, one might argue that it has a black point of view. However, the film successfully sympathetically portrays several white characters and avoids the assumption that all white people were racist in this period.

Let’s face it- racism still exists, especially in the South, and in the 1960s even more so. I did not find the message in black people vs. white people’s terms, but rather as a humanistic struggle for rights.

And the struggles continue as the film makes abundantly clear in the message of the film.

While King was a life changer to the black people of the United States, his life was abruptly cut short in his prime. One wonders how much more good this man could have achieved.

The song “Glory” is an emotional, powerful number, especially during the marching and subsequent slaughter scenes highly emotional and effective.

And who will not become teary-eyed as the innocent marchers are beaten and treated like cattle, simply for taking a stand? One will gasp at the senseless bombing scene that rocks a building and takes four innocent little girls’ lives away with it.

Selma successfully transplanted me to a time before my time and made me appreciate and capture the positive and negative experiences of a race of people not long ago.

This film inspires and moves me and teaches me what a movement occurred in 1965.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Picture, Best Original Song-“Glory” (won)

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Feature, Best Director-Ava DuVernay, Best Male Lead-David Oyelowo, Best Supporting Female-Carmen Ejogo, Best Cinematography

2014 Films, Ann Dowd, Bill Murray, Chris O'Dowd, Comedy, Drama, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, Jaeden Martell, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts, Terrence Howard, Theodore Melfi

St. Vincent-2014

June 5, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

St. Vincent-2014

Director Theodore Melfi

Starring Bill Murray, Naomi Watts, Melissa McCarthy

Scott’s Review #246

Reviewed June 5, 2015

Grade: B-

St. Vincent (2014) succeeds only due to the charming, funny appeal of its star Bill Murray, who fronts this cute, mainstream comedy.

Set in blue-collar Brooklyn, New York, it tells the story of a curmudgeonly old man (the title character, Vincent), who befriends a lonely young boy named Oliver, new to the neighborhood.

Mixed in with the cast of characters are Oliver’s struggling mother Maggie (played by Melissa McCarthy) and Vincent’s pregnant, stripper girlfriend, Daka, played by Naomi Watts.

I found intrigue in how we get to know Vincent first and then watch him evolve from a grumpy, cutting old man to a begrudging babysitter of the neighbor boy while clashing with Maggie and fighting with Daka.

Murray returns to comic wit using his now-legendary flawless dry, sarcastic humor and perfect timing and displays much of that in St. Vincent. Throughout all of this Vincent remains brutally honest with his snarky remarks (mainly aimed at Maggie) yet heartwarming and I love this aspect of the film.

Thanks to Murray, Vincent is lovable, making the film, which with lesser talent, would be overly sentimental

As the film progresses we see Vincent’s struggles- his wife suffers from Alzheimer’s, and he is indebted to bookies (primarily Terence Howard- in a bit of a throwaway role).

The film staggers with some predictability issues and is formulaic and easy to predict a warm finale.

Of course, in true form, Vincent is a Vietnam vet who drinks and gambles and is angry at the world, but has a heart of gold so, despite being temperamental, the audience falls in love with him (patriotism helps).

The character contains every cliche in the book. A mean old man- who rises to new heights and becomes a nice grandfather figure to a bullied boy is what this film is going for.

The bullying of Oliver is also contrived- during one scene Oliver, after being picked on once again by the prominent bully, flies into a seething rage and breaks the bully’s nose.

The audience is supposed to buy that the waif-ish, shy kid triumphs over the bully. If only life were that simple. Inevitably, after both serve after-school detention, they bond over bathroom cleaning and become best friends.

Who did not see that coming?

In addition, most of the characters are one-note.

Naomi Watts is a sexy, and aging Russian (not sure I bought that accent) stripper with a soft spot- she comes across as uptight but is caring- another cliche.

Melissa McCarthy is a hard-working, soon-to-be divorcee, trying to raise her kid right- one-dimensional. Even Vincent is seemingly tough as nails, but of course, has a soft spot for the neighbor kid.

The casting of Watts, McCarthy, and Howard is okay, and I surmise the film was going for casting “name” actors, but these parts might have been played by unknowns and had the same effect.

The gem is Murray.

Murray effortlessly breathes life into a character who otherwise would have been as dull as dishwater. I found the writing the weakest point of the film.

A major incident brings the cast together united as one (yawn). The film closes with the family all happily eating dinner together. I do not see this as a spoiler as this ending can be seen a mile away.

Despite the flaws and sentimentality of the film, it is admittedly sweet, and humorous at times, and sends a nice message to the audience- be kind to one another and help each other get through life.

Without Bill Murray, this film would have been completely bland and unlikeable.

St. Vincent (2014) is a feel-good film that is perhaps too feel-good.

2014 Films, Albert Brooks, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott, Crime Drama, David Oyelowo, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, J. C. Chandor, Jessica Chastain, Mob, Oscar Isaac

A Most Violent Year-2014

May 1, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

A Most Violent Year-2014

Director J.C. Chandor

Starring Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain

Scott’s Review #239

Reviewed May 1, 2015

Grade: B

Set in New York City, throughout the notoriously violent year of 1981 and influenced, at least in part, by The Godfather (1972) A Most Violent Year (2014) is similar in texture to the elite HBO series The Sopranos (1999-2007).

A Most Violent Year is an attempt at weaving a tale of a “good guy” mixed up with the mafia and attempting to remain upstanding throughout the adversity and corruption he encounters.

Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain portray Abel and Anna Morales, who owned Standard Oil, an upstart business they are attempting to launch.

Due to the violent nature of the times, several trucks are hijacked, resulting in robberies and severe beatings. In desperate need of funds to expand their business and stay ahead of competitors, Abel and Anna are forced to take out loans, leading them into a world where crime and violence run rampant.

They are under investigation for apparent price fixing and tax evasion activity by the Assistant District Attorney.

The main theme is the conflict and guilt that Abel feels towards violence and the constant temptation to join the ranks of the crime world to protect his business ventures.

Abel faces pressure from Anna, who has mob ties (her father is an influential mafia boss known around town) and is all for fighting fire with fire. Abel refuses and is determined to lead a straight and narrow life.

When circumstances spin out of control, his morals are questioned.

A Most Violent Year is an interesting film yet I think I was expecting a bit more than I was given.

For starters, it is not in the same league as the mafia works of art. It is tough to put my finger on what the issue is but something is missing from the film making it lack a compelling edge.

The plot moves slowly, for sure, but the film is successful as the character study that it is, however, I was left wanting more depth to the characters and a broader vision of the film itself.

I did not find myself truly vested in either the character of Abel or Anna.

Chastain received praise for her performance, which I found adequate, but hardly a marvel. Nominated for several awards, but deemed “snubbed” for not receiving an Oscar nomination, I find this untrue.

Her performance is not brilliant and Oscar Isaac’s is superior.

This is not to say that I did not enjoy the film overall. It takes some risks, has a rich character complexity, is shot very well, and looks great. It has a smooth look and I completely bought the 1981 time period, rather than it appearing to be dressed up for the era.

There is an authenticity to it.

A mob film not on the level of The Godfather or Goodfellas (1990), A Most Violent Year is a decent contribution to the crime-thriller era. It just does not live up to the critical acclaim heaped upon it.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Supporting Female-Jessica Chastain, Best Screenplay, Best Editing

2014 Films, Drama, Fantasy, Independent, Independent Drama, Jeffrey Wright, Jim Jarmusch, John Hurt, Mia Wasikowska, Romantic Drama, Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston

Only Lovers Left Alive-2014

April 24, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Only Lovers Left Alive-2014

Director Jim Jarmusch

Starring Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston

Scott’s Review #237

Reviewed April 24, 2015

Grade: B

Only Lovers Left Alive (2014) is a bizarre trip into the strange and unusual world of vampires.

The film, moving slowly, becomes hypnotic, grabbing me into the plot, though the plot itself seems almost secondary to the gothic mood and dark ambiance of the film.

Thanks to the wonderful Tilda Swinton, who I find mesmerizing in every film role she appears in, the methodical film never completely bored me and, at times, even fascinated me.

Set in present times, Swinton and Tom Hiddleston play vampires named Adam and Eve, who are lovers separated geographically. Adam is a musician living in a vast Victorian house in Detroit and Eve resides in Tangier.

Realizing that Adam is lonely and suicidal, Eve makes the international trek to the United States to be with her love. While they begin enjoying a quiet existence immersed in music and thoughts, Eve’s rebellious sister Ava (Mia Wasikowska) from Los Angeles adds havoc to their lives.

Also cast in the film is John Hurt, who plays Marlowe, an ancient vampire assisting Adam and Eve, who succumbs to sickness due to tainted blood.

The film is a creative, atmospheric offering from edgy independent film director Jim Jarmusch, known for such left-of-center fare as Broken Flowers (2005) and Coffee and Cigarettes (2003), which are visual and visceral achievements.

While I did not completely love this film, feeling that the actual story is the weakest area, the magical and beautiful arrangements almost make up for any shortcomings.

Set entirely at night (when vampires are awake) and featuring several shots of Adam and Eve posed naked or almost naked in lovely, artistic angles, I think the film is going for a “look” as much as for storytelling and not completely centering on the plot.

It is also a lovely romantic film, though not in the typical sense of silly misunderstandings, and comical moments, but rather in romantic artistry, as Adam and Eve connect spiritually.

Married hundreds of years ago, Adam and Eve have been inexplicably separated by thousands of miles and coasts, though the reason is not explained.

Why are they the few remaining vampires alive? Does the human race know they are vampires or think they are odd-looking people? They both have money to burn and pay a high cost for being vampires as they either pay a contact to steal blood from hospitals to survive or obtain the blood elsewhere.

They are tempted to bite humans but resist those urges. The film does not explain why they are two of the few vampires left in the world or other questions. Adam, supposedly a famous musician, is wealthy beyond words and lives in a haunted-looking mansion surrounded by music and musical instruments.

The plot holes, of course, are secondary to me. None of them matter.

The film has beautiful moments- it is musically centered and Adam and Eve on more than one occasion engage in beautiful, tender dances the film is a pure love story, but a very left-of-center one.

I admire the film’s creativity and going where most filmmakers do not dare to go. Jarmusch dares to be different and deserves much praise.

The negative for me was the pacing of the film- the story almost does not matter as the film feels more like an experience in art than a “mainstream” film containing strong plot points and focus.

Only Lovers Left Alive (2014) is a different type of film and one worth admiring.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Female Lead-Tilda Swinton, Best Screenplay

2014 Films, Charlie Sexton, Drama, Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke, Independent, Independent Drama, Patricia Arquette, Richard Linklater

Boyhood-2014

January 19, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Boyhood-2014

Director Richard Linklater

Starring Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke

Scott’s Review #217

Reviewed January 19, 2015

Grade: A

Boyhood (2014) is a family drama directed by Richard Linklater that tells the story of a family’s trials and tribulations over twelve years, ranging from approximately 2002-2013.

The film uses the same actors over the entire period, enabling the viewer to see the characters change. What a novel idea! In this day and age of special effects, superheroes, and animated animals, how refreshing to see a simple tale of a family told over a while.

The film’s main character is Mason Evans, Jr. played by Ellar Coltrane.

We are introduced to Mason when he is six years old and in the first grade. He lives with his older sister Samantha, played by the director’s daughter Lorelei Linklater, and his mother Olivia, played by Patricia Arquette, in Texas.

Ethan Hawke, divorced from Olivia plays Mason’s father (Mason Sr.).

As the years go by we see situations arise and the characters grow and develop like real life.

After the film, Mason Jr. is headed off to college following years of life experience including his first relationship. The other characters develop and we see Olivia and Mason Sr. delve into relationships with partners, some successful, others less successful.

Boyhood succeeds because it is a film about real life that feels like a slice of Americana.

It’s a wonderful film.

The audience invests in the characters because we grow to love and care about their lives. It is comparable to seeing cousins or friends once a year and seeing what becomes of their lives over time.

This film fascinates me because it is so basic and real that it does not need contrived dramatic situations to warrant attention. It is simply authentic and that is what makes a great film.

The film is left-leaning politically speaking and I love that current events are brought up throughout the years by the family members.

As the film progresses we are treated to Mason Sr. commenting on his distaste of the Iraq war, the children’s anticipation of the new Harry Potter film, Mason Sr. taking the kids to a Houston Astros game, and The Beatles and Star Wars are mentioned.

Another scene sadly focuses on a returning soldier from Iraq who suffers from Post-traumatic stress disorder. These nuances make the film seem so authentic and rich.

As wonderful a job as Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke did neither of them had a huge, bombastic, emotional scene which would have been splendid given the talents of each, but this is a small criticism.

Both are superb as struggling parents trying to do the right thing for their children and carve out a life for themselves.

Boyhood redefines realism in the film as we see a family unit hope, struggle, and dream as it’s played out before our eyes.

The film does not need overwrought dramatics as it is simply a slice of the life of a group of people we come to know and love.

Everyone can relate to Boyhood (2014).

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Picture, Best Director-Richard Linklater, Best Supporting Actor-Ethan Hawke, Best Supporting Actress-Patricia Arquette (won), Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 2 wins-Best Feature, Best Director-Richard Linklater (won), Best Supporting Male-Ethan Hawke, Best Supporting Female-Patricia Arquette (won), Best Editing

2014 Films, Anthony Michael Hall, Bennett Miller, Biography, Channing Tatum, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller, Sports, Steve Carell, Vanessa Redgrave

Foxcatcher-2014

January 2, 2015 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Foxcatcher-2014

Director Bennett Miller

Starring Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo

Scott’s Review #210

Reviewed January 2, 2015

Grade: A

Foxcatcher (2014) is a dark, disturbing, psychological thriller that achieves greatness based on its bleak look and great acting.

It is a superb character-driven story, based on true events, led by the talents of actors Steve Carrell, Channing Tatum, and Mark Ruffalo, each of whom is excellent.

It is a sports film, but hardly predictable as many in this genre typically are.

The film is set in 1987. Brothers Mark and Dave Schultz (Tatum and Ruffalo respectively) are former Olympic gold medal-winning wrestlers attempting to compete in the upcoming 1988 Olympic competitions.

Despite winning a gold medal, Mark (Tatum) lives in squalor and is reduced to giving pep rallies at elementary schools, meant to be done by Dave (Ruffalo), for very little money. Dave is the more successful brother, a family man living a happy existence.

He is more talented than Mark and very driven.

One day Mark is contacted by wealthy philanthropist John du Pont (Carrell) and invited to live with him at his expansive estate in Pennsylvania and train with other aspiring Olympic wrestlers.

John’s attempts at wooing Dave as well initially fail.

From this point in the story, the film delves into psychologically dark territory, mainly the controlling, disturbing behavior of John, as he attempts to control Mark and woo Dave.

John has a damaged relationship with his mother, Jean, wonderfully played by Vanessa Redgrave. Jean feels that John’s obsession with the wrestling world is far beneath him and their relationship is tense and unloving.

The three principal actors involved in the film are worthy of discussion as the film would not be as complex or compelling.

Let’s begin with Channing Tatum- known primarily as a hunky movie star with questionable acting ability, he proves the naysayers wrong.

I cannot help but compare him to a younger Brad Pitt. It took years and many films for him to be recognized as more than a pretty face and abs to die for.

His performance is understated and calm, but nuanced in his laid-back demeanor. Sometimes anger bubbles under the surface.

Carrell is downright creepy as the affluent yet insecure Du Pont.

Throughout the film, the character seems off. Known mostly for silly comedies he is a breakout performance that, I hope, leads to similar meaty roles. Carrell shows he has what it takes to appear in quality films.

Lastly, Mark Ruffalo, who always plays interesting, everyman-type characters, again emits much emotion from his character of Dave Schultz, a successful, driven, athlete who is also a dedicated husband and father.

With lesser casting, Foxcatcher would not have been as interesting.

Questions at the end of the film will arise. What were John du Pont’s motivations? What effect did his mother have on his actions? How could a man with all his power and wealth end up this sad? Were there inappropriate sexual overtures made towards the wrestlers by John?

Foxcatcher (2014) excels at portraying a dark, layered, moody, true story and teaches that wealth does not equate to happiness and in many instances, quite the contrary occurs.

The film is an immense success.

Oscar Nominations: Best Director-Bennett Miller, Best Actor-Steve Carell, Best Supporting Actor-Mark Ruffalo, Best Original Screenplay, Best Makeup and Hairstyling

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Special Distinction Award (won)

2014 Films, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Amy Ryan, Andrea Riseborough, Art, Best Feature- Independent Spirit Award Winners, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Bill Camp, Dark Comedy, Drama, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Favorite Film of the Year, Independent, Independent Drama, Merritt Wever, Michael Keaton, Naomi Watts, Zach Galifianakis

Birdman-2014

November 6, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Birdman-2014

Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu

Starring Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Emma Stone

Scott’s Review #190

Reviewed November 6, 2014

Grade: A

Birdman (2014) is a unique art film that, happily, has garnered major exposure and publicity because a movie like this runs the risk of receiving praise and notice only from the art-house crowd itself.

The film’s star, Michael Keaton, portrays Riggan Thomson, a former action hero superstar from the 1990s, who was made famous for the “Birdman” character he created.

Having made sequels to the film, his career has since dried up and he hopes to establish credibility and prove himself a real actor by writing, directing, and starring in his play.

The film is set in and around the Broadway theater in New York City.

As opening night approaches, he struggles to pull everything together and emit a successful production while faced with an injured terrible actor, a difficult actor, his insecurities, and a miserable theatre critic destined to ruin his big chance.

To make matters worse, his daughter Sam, played by Emma Stone is a recovering drug addict who hangs around the theatre distracting actors with her charm and good looks.

Naomi Watts and Edward Norton play Leslie and Mike, other cast members in the production. Watts is sympathetic as the emotional actress with a heart of gold who finally has her dream of performing on Broadway realized.

Norton, outstanding as Mike, is blunt yet socially awkward and can only perform truthfully on stage.

Keaton is simply a marvel as he plays a dark and vulnerable man. He hates and wishes to shed his ridiculous movie persona of yesteryear and secretly cringes when recognized by fans. He uses it with a voice inside his head when he played “Birdman” years earlier.

The uniqueness of the film is the use of what seems like one long take as the action rarely stops and is ongoing. The film belongs to Keaton, who wonderfully relays vulnerability, pain, and fear within with an outward persona of bravery and masculinity.

Throughout the film I wondered, is Riggan suicidal? What is real and what is imagined? Are certain scenes foreshadowing later events?

The film has much depth.

One marvels at how art imitates life, is Keaton portraying himself? He was the original Batman in the successful superhero franchise beginning in 1989 and his career tanked shortly after.

Birdman is a comeback film for him and he is devastatingly good.

Norton’s character Mike impressed me. He is blunt flawed, scared, and addicted to the stage.

Stone has one particularly brilliant scene as she lambasts her father and with regret, later on, tells him that the world has moved on without him and that he is irrelevant just like everyone else. It is a powerful scene.

In another, Riggan is locked outside the theater during the performance, clad only in his underwear. How on earth will he return to the stage and complete the show? The quick slights at current Hollywood superstars playing superheroes, specifically Robert Downey Jr. are deliciously naughty.

It is impossible to predict what will come next and the film is very New York theater style. Keaton’s run-in with a theater critic in a cocktail bar is the best scene in the film as the critic’s vicious critique of “You’re a celebrity, not an actor” resonates with both pain and tremendous anger for Riggan.

Riggan is a sensitive, struggling man and Keaton so wonderfully shows his vulnerability in every scene.

Oscar Nominations: 4 wins-Best Picture (won), Best Director-Alejandro G. Iñárritu (won), Best Actor-Michael Keaton, Best Supporting Actor-Edward Norton, Best Supporting Actress-Emma Stone, Best Original Screenplay (won), Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Cinematography (won)

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 3 wins-Best Feature (won), Best Director-Alejandro G. Inarritu, Best Male Lead-Michael Keaton (won), Best Supporting Male-Edward Norton, Best Supporting Female-Emma Stone, Best Cinematography (won)

2013 Films, Crime Drama, Drama, Edward James Olmos, Harold Perrineau, Hector Elizondo, Independent, Independent Drama, John Sayles, LisaGay Hamilton, Mahershala Ali, Yolonda Ross

Go for Sisters-2013

September 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Go for Sisters-2013

Director John Sayles

Starring Edward James Olmos

Scott’s Review #177

Reviewed September 27, 2014

Grade: B-

Go for Sisters is a 2013 independent feature film about a female parole officer (Lisa Gay Hamilton) with a troubled, missing son named Rodney, feared to be mixed up with the murder of a drug dealer.

The film takes place in California and Mexico.

Hamilton plays Bernice, a middle-aged black woman, who has always done the right thing. Widowed and recently dumped by a new boyfriend, she runs into ex-convict Fontayne, played by Yolonda Ross, at her parole office.

Initially wanting nothing to do with her former high school friend, Bernice decides to use Fontayne’s criminal connections to locate Rodney.

From this point, they hire retired Mexican police officer Freddy Suarez, played by Edward James Olmos, and the trio embarks on an adventure across the border of Mexico.

I love the story involving the two female leads (Hamilton and Ross) who share a Thelma and Louise-type bond.

The characters reconnect with each other and develop independently. Straight-laced Bernice toughens up and breaks a few rules while Fontayne, determined to go straight, struggles to keep her head above water, resisting drugs and attempting to hold down a job.

The two forge a bond based on trust, respect, and loyalty, and their friendship grows throughout the film.

One gripe about Fontayne’s character- she admits to being a lesbian but then mentions she is not sure if she is or if she is not. This sexual identity crisis seems strange- why couldn’t the film make her a lesbian? Why the hedging?

The remaining aspects of the film are mediocre to weak.

Adding the character of Freddy to the mix is unnecessary. He adds little to the plot except helping the women get into Mexico and being male comic relief.

Either way, I didn’t find the character very interesting or care about him and the film would have been better off without Freddy.

What was the reasoning behind making him have poor eyesight? What was the point of Freddy taking a young woman and her daughter to breakfast and realizing they were crossing the border to find her estranged husband? Who cares?

It had nothing to do with the plot.

All the audience knows about Freddy is that he is retired due to a misunderstanding, accepts money to help Bernice and Fontayne, and tags along with them for the rest of the film.

The stereotypes should have been eliminated. The Chinese dragon lady and the corrupt Mexican police officers have been played to death in films and are rather insulting to smart and serious movie-goers.

I found the plot a bit tough to follow and I still don’t understand how or why Rodney was involved with the Chinese mob in the first place other than to help Chinese immigrants cross the border.

Was he involved in the money or wanted to help the immigrants cross to the United States?

The film mentions countless times how Rodney is a decent person so what’s his motivation? The film never wholly explains why he is kidnapped and a suspect in a murder case.

Also, countless characters are introduced to help the women on their journey with some connection to the kidnap victim but are written haphazardly with no character development.

The ending of Go for Sisters (2013) is too predictable and leaves the audience not caring about the outcome.

Despite numerous negatives, the heart of the film belongs to the talents of Hamilton and Ross and their characters’ interesting and warm friendship that develops throughout the film.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Supporting Female-Yolonda Ross

2014 Films, Alfred Molina, Christina Kirk, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Ira Sachs, John Lithgow, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films, Marisa Tomei, Romantic Drama

Love Is Strange-2014

September 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Love Is Strange-2014

Director Ira Sachs

Starring John Lithgow, Alfred Molina

Scott’s Review #174

Reviewed September 24, 2014

Grade: B

Love Is Strange (2014) is sweet, though not nauseatingly sentimental, looking at many different types of relationships, at the forefront is the same-sex couple, Ben and George, played by John Lithgow and Alfred Molina respectively.

They are a successful New York City couple of a certain age, together for nearly thirty years, and finally legally wed in a low-key ceremony surrounded by friends and family.

George teaches music at a strict Catholic high school where the students and staff know and love him and his new husband. The bishop is not supportive of his marriage and he is unceremoniously fired.

This causes Ben and George to become homeless and rely on family and friends for a roof over their heads.

The film features several secondary character relationships.

Ben’s nephew and wife balance busy careers with a temperamental, rebellious, confused son; Ben’s niece from Poughkeepsie seems neurotic.

Neighbors who are gay police couples have loud parties seemingly every night. Marisa Tomei, who plays Ben’s niece by marriage, Kate, and Charlie Tahan as Joey, Ben’s great-nephew are probably the most prominently featured in the supporting cast.

While well-meaning and accommodating, Kate bottles her anger and comforts herself with nightly consumption of red wine. Joey lashes out at his great Uncle in frustration criticizing his artwork and scolding him for using his teen friend in a portrait, a friend whose sexuality is unclear.

Most other characters are not fleshed out well and are there to move the plot along. This is slightly disappointing. I would have preferred a bit more backstory regarding the rest of the cast.

Throughout the film, a few clues are dropped surrounding Joey and his friend’s sexuality, but not pursued further than on the surface.

I was curious about the cop’s back story. How long have they been together? Do they face conflict at work? Numerous scenes show both cops in uniform while running errands or visiting the hospital, which seems to be the film’s desire to emphasize that cops can be masculine and gay- a fact I love, yet the characters are only one-dimensional.

Why is Ben’s niece neurotic? This is also not pursued at all.

The film belongs to Lithgow and Molina. The two have such effortless, natural chemistry that the audience instantly believes they have been together for decades. The fact that Lithgow and Molina are lifelong friends in real life surely adds to the realism and naturalness.

Ben is the yin to George’s yang. The performances of Lithgow and Molina are so understated and calming that one might overlook how excellent they are since they are both low-key characters.

Love Is Strange (2014) is a film about strength, courage, loyalty, and perseverance through life’s challenges.

It is a sensitive and lovely film.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Feature, Best Male Lead-John Lithgow, Best Supporting Male-Alfred Molina, Best Screenplay

2013 Films, Ali Mosaffa, Asghar Farhadi, Bérénice Bejo, Drama, French, Independent, Independent Drama, International, International Drama, Persian, Tahar Rahim

The Past-2013

September 16, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Past-2013

Director Asghar Farhadi

Starring Berenice Bejo, Tahar Rahim

Scott’s Review #171

Reviewed September 16, 2014

Grade: B+

The Past (2013) is an international film directed by acclaimed Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, who directed the brilliant A Separation in 2012.

Despite being directed by an Iranian director, the film is written in French and set in France.

While not quite on the level of A Separation, The Past is still a good, layered, and quite compelling film, though admittedly slow-paced in spots, similar to real life.

The film centers on a couple, Marie and Ahmad, amid a divorce. Marie lives in France with her two daughters from a relationship before Ahmad so they have no children. He lives in Iran and comes to visit and finalize the divorce proceedings.

Further complicating the situation is that Marie is in a relationship with another man, Samir, who has a son with his current wife, who is a vegetable in a coma after a suicide attempt.

What were the events that led her to attempt suicide? Did someone reveal something of importance to her? If so, who?

Questions such as these compel viewers to invest in the characters.

The Past is an excellent family drama done right- there are no needless stereotypes and the children serve more of a purpose than being cute or attractive wallpaper like in many family dramas.

Each child involved- there are 3- has real feelings and realistically expresses themselves. All three principal adult characters are mature, complicated, and have depth. Nobody is the villain and the intent is not to make the audience root for one couple over the other- the film is more mysterious than that.

Rather, the audience spends the film trying to figure out secrets that the characters keep.

Is Marie ready to divorce Ahmad or does she still love him? Does Samir blame Marie for his wife’s condition? Why does the oldest daughter hate Samir so much?

These are questions that arise more and more as The Past unfolds.

Another interesting facet of the film is there are no red herrings introduced to manipulate the viewer. The film is simply a detailed, complex drama.

All three leads (Berenice Bejo, Tahar Rahim, and Ali Mosaffa) give wonderful performances, though I’m not sure why Bejo’s performance is considered the standout.

Upon completion and thought, I noticed many similarities to A Separation.

The Past (2013) is a good, solid, family drama, with rich writing and honest, compelling situations.

2013 Films, Amy Seimetz, Bill Heck, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films, Marcus DeAnda, Yen Tan

Pit Stop-2013

September 10, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Pit Stop-2013

Director Yen Tan

Starring Bill Heck, Marcus DeAnda

Scott’s Review #168

Reviewed September 10, 2014

Grade: B

Pit Stop is a small independent film from 2013 that centers on a group of gay men living in rural Texas, outside of Houston or San Antonio.

The plot focuses on two specific men, Gabe and Ernesto, who are not acquainted with each other. They tell of their ups and downs, mostly regarding dating and relationships.

Gabe lives with his ex-wife Shannon and they share a child they raise together as a family. They have a warm relationship and live together as friends. Gabe was recently dumped by a married man who wants Gabe to stop calling him.

Ernesto lives with a younger man whom he used to date and is trying to convince him to move out and get his life together.

Ernesto also has a former partner who is comatose and whom he continues to visit in the hospital.

A subplot of the film is Shannon’s struggles to date. She arranges a date with a co-worker and, after drinking too much, embarrasses herself by coming on too strong to him.

The point of the film is that all of the characters are struggling to find love and companionship and most are quite lonely people, yet not unbalanced or neurotic folks.

They reside in the middle of nowhere which dims their chances of finding love.

There are no villains and all the characters are quite likable. There is a rooting value to each of them especially towards Gabe and Ernesto and all along I kept hoping that they would be brought together as they seem to be a wonderful pair fraught with potential chemistry.

Both are caregivers in their current situations so interesting is what transpires after the film.

Pit Stop (2013) is a feel-good, happily-ever-after type film, mostly screened at independent film festivals and the gay festival circuit.

The film is small and steady, but nice, uplifting experience and worth checking out.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: John Cassavetes Award

2013 Films, Bob Odenkirk, Brie Larson, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, James Ponsoldt, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Kaitlyn Dever, Kyle Chandler, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley

The Spectacular Now-2013

August 29, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Spectacular Now-2013

Director James Ponsoldt

Starring Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley

Scott’s Review #161

Reviewed August 29, 2014

Grade: B

The Spectacular Now (2013) is a coming-of-age independent film that tells the story of a romance between two unlikely high school seniors.

Sutter (Miles Teller) is a popular student who takes a shine to smart loner Aimee (Shailene Woodley) and the two develop a strong bond as they each struggle with parental issues while being opposite social types.

She is college-bound and motivated, he lives in the now with no thoughts of the future. But somehow they forge a connection.

The success of this film lies with Teller and Woodley who each give nice performances and the chemistry between them is evident.

At first, I neither bought Teller as a traditionally popular kid nor Woodley as the friendless recluse, but somehow the film works as each has a rooting value to them.

Sutter’s ex-girlfriend Cassidy, whom he still has feelings for is played by Brie Larson, and the character is rather undeveloped, needless, and not much rooting value for her or competition for the main couple.

Interestingly, alcohol and alcoholism are touched on as the two leads drink quite heavily and regularly for being only eighteen years old, but glossed over.

I think the film is more about the romance between the two rather than any social issues.

There are capable supporting performances by Jennifer Jason Leigh, Kyle Chandler, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead.

Shailene Woodley received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Actress, but Miles Teller received no nomination and I am surprised as I thought he was a bit better than she was and had the meatier role.

The Spectacular Now (2013) is hardly anything groundbreaking, but a nicely told story that is authentic and admirable for a teen film.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Female Lead-Shailene Woodley, Best Screenplay

2013 Films, Brie Larson, Destin Daniel Cretton, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, John Gallagher Jr., Kaitlyn Dever, LaKeith Stanfield, Melora Walters, Rami Malek, Stephanie Beatriz

Short Term 12-2013

August 6, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Short Term 12-2013

Director Destin Daniel Cretton, Lakeith Stanfield

Starring Brie Larson

Scott’s Review #149

Reviewed August 6, 2014

Grade: C+

Having just viewed Short Term 12 (2013), I am not sure I am getting all of the “this movie is brilliant” or “beyond amazing”, or glowing praise surrounding the film.

The film is set in a group home for troubled teens and centers around the supervisor of the home named Grace (Brie Larson). Grace runs the home with her boyfriend and other twenty-something, mostly former troubled youths.

The film’s focal point is Grace and both her problems (she is pregnant and her abusive father is being released from prison) and her relationships with the teens currently staying in the group home.

The film is fairly engaging but seems a bit forced and not gritty enough given the subject matter.

I enjoyed the relationship between Grace and a new charge, Jayden, whom she befriends. The group of teens is almost too perfectly cast, however- with a mix of races and stereotypes, the kids did not come across as genuine.

I would have liked to see more backstory for some of the kids besides the two that were given one.

Subjects were introduced but not followed through with- Why was Grace’s father never introduced onscreen? Where was the mother? Her childhood issues were mentioned only in passing. Some of Grace’s actions were unrealistic and out of character for a counseling supervisor.

Would she smash the windows of one of the teen’s father’s cars out of anger and not consider the repercussions? And what was with the constant poop jokes, especially in the first ten minutes?

That was dumb and out of place.

The film feels glossed over and I didn’t feel the realism- almost like a CBS television drama with swear words added to seem harsher. The subject was brave, but many more details could have been delved into and explored in Short Term 12 (2013).

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Female Lead-Brie Larson, Best Supporting Male-Lakeith Stanfield, Best Editing (won)

2013 Films, Amy Adams, Bill Hader, Brian Cox, Chris Pratt, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Joaquin Phoenix, Kristen Wiig, Olivia Wilde, Romantic Drama, Rooney Mara, Scarlett Johansson, Science Fiction, Spike Jonze

Her-2013

August 5, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Her-2013

Director Spike Jonze

Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johannson

Scott’s Review #147

Reviewed August 5, 2014

Grade: A-

Her (2013) is a very unique film directed by Spike Jonze.

The film tells the tale of a lonely, depressed man named Theodore, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who lives in a beautiful high-rise in futuristic Los Angeles.

He works as a writer for a company that creates intimate cards for people in relationships. Having suffered a recent divorce, he falls in love with his computerized operation system named Samantha, played by Scarlett Johansson- voice only.

Conflicts emerge as the relationship deepens and intensifies. Her is a love story uniquely crafted, but also a story of loneliness and the world of technology we now live in.

It portrays human relationships as troubled and unsuccessful yet several characters have wonderful relationships with computers.

Is this what the future may bring with human beings? How many people have fallen in love with a fantasy or a voice on the phone?

The film ponders why relationships have been changed due to technological advances and wonders what will happen further into the future. Technology, while wonderful, has changed our interpersonal relationships and this film successfully delves deeply into that aspect.

The conversation is a lost art and Her features the joys and the tragedies of technology.

Visually, the film is successful because it portrays Los Angeles in a sophisticated, ultra-sleek, modern way that is fascinating.

Several technological games are featured (the Alien child is brilliantly comical) and the “Mom points” is fascinating in its irony.

Her is a deep film that raises questions and I applaud this in modern cinema.

Her is a slow-moving film, but a questioning one.

It won the 2013 Best Original Screenplay Oscar and I am so glad the academy recognized the originality of this film.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay (won), Best Original Score, Best Original Song-“The Moon Song”, Best Production Design

2014 Films, Adrien Brody, Bill Murray, Comedy, Drama, Edward Norton, F. Murray Abraham, Fisher Stevens, Harvey Keitel, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, Jason Schwartzman, Jeff Goldblum, Jude Law, Kunichi Nomura, Léa Seydoux, Lucas Hedges, Neal Huff, Owen Wilson, Ralph Fiennes, Saoirse Ronan, Tilda Swinton, Tom Wilkinson, Wes Anderson, Willem Dafoe

The Grand Budapest Hotel-2014

July 30, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Grand Budapest Hotel-2014

Director Wes Anderson

Starring Ralph Fiennes, F. Murray Abraham

Scott’s Review #143

Reviewed July 30, 2014

Grade: B+

The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) is a witty and unique film by director Wes Anderson, who has also directed similarly quirky films, notably Monsoon Kingdom (2012) and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).

The famous story of the history of the Grand Budapest Hotel is recounted, over dinner, by the current owner Zero (played by F. Murray Abraham), and an inquisitive guest (Jude Law).

The film then goes back to the 1930s and shares the story of the actual history of the hotel.

The main story centers on the head concierge, Gustave, (Ralph Fiennes), and his antics involving older wealthy blonde women, a murder, stolen art, and a missing will.

Gustave is a ladies’ man, and bisexual, who spends time with the rich women who stay at the hotel. Fiennes does an excellent job as the quick-witted, almost manic Gustave.

This sets off a series of interesting, mysterious events for the remainder of the film that turns into a whodunit yarn.

The visual aspects usurp the story. The art direction is amazing. The sets are constructed so perfectly and ingeniously that they almost look like animated sets or like a dollhouses.

The costumes and makeup are flawless.

The story tends to be tough to follow at times and is just not as strong as the other aspects of the film, although this is not to be interpreted as the story is not good- it is entertaining, but nothing more.

It’s just that the other aspects of the film are magnificent and the story is secondary. It’s an odd film, certainly, but unique and interesting.

Well-known Hollywood stars appear- Tilda Swinton, Edward Norton, Adrien Brody, Willem Defoe, and Harvey Keitel.

Oscar Nominations: 4 wins-Best Picture, Best Director-Wes Anderson, Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Score (won), Best Production Design (won), Best Cinematography, Best Makeup and Hairstyling (won), Best Costume Design (won), Best Film Editing

2012 Films, Aaron Paul, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, James Ponsoldt, Kyle Gallner, Mackenzie Davis, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Mary Kay Place, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, Octavia Spencer, Romantic Drama

Smashed-2012

July 28, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Smashed-2012

Director James Ponsoldt

Starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Aaron Paul

Scott’s Review #139

Reviewed July 28, 2014

Grade: B

Smashed is an independent film made in 2012, as a showcase for Mary Elizabeth Winstead, who impressed me enormously as an actress.

She gives a fantastic portrayal of a twenty-something elementary school teacher who is an alcoholic.

Known for either crappy or supporting roles (or both) in bombs like The Thing (2011) and Live Free or Die Hard (2007), Winstead comes into her own with her performance and is the main reason to see the film.

I am always amazed when an actor who previously has not been given great material that allows them to shine, finally goes indie and takes a risk.

Aaron Paul plays her husband, who is also an alcoholic. They both love music and partying. When she decides to sober up, conflict emerges in their marriage.

Despite the subject matter of alcoholism, the film is not a downer. It borders on romantic comedy with drama thrown in and is not depressing.

My one criticism would be the side effects of alcoholism are glossed over. There is not much grittiness in the film-she becomes an alcoholic, struggles a bit, and recovers, almost television movie-like.

The true, horrific battles are not shown.

Octavia Spencer and Megan Mullally appear in small roles.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Female Lead-Mary Elizabeth Winstead

2011 Films, Drama, Esai Morales, Harmony Santana, Independent, Independent Drama, Judy Reyes, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films, Rashaad Ernesto Green, Robin de Jesús

Gun Hill Road-2011

July 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Gun Hill Road-2011

Director Rashaad Ernesto Green

Starring Esai Morales, Harmony Santana, Judy Reyes

Scott’s Review #138

Reviewed July 27, 2014

Grade: A-

Gun Hill Road (2011) is a very small, independent film set in the Bronx, New York, hence the title, which is a famous street there.

It tells the story of a Hispanic family, the father, Enrique, (wonderfully played by Esai Morales) being recently released from prison and adjusting to clean living.

His wife Angela (Judy Reyes) has moved on emotionally and physically, and his teenage son Michael (Harmony Santana) is going through a sexual identity crisis and defines himself as a female.

Each of the three characters is sympathetic and motivation well understood.

The most interesting facet of the film is the father/son relationship as Enrique must eventually come to terms with Michael’s sexuality and gender definition, which is not portrayed as easy in the Latino community.

There is a rawness and realness to this film.

Gun Hill Road is a dysfunctional family drama, character-driven, sometimes difficult to watch, and quite captivating, though the ending is slightly disappointing, as events were left open-ended.

Santana was nominated for the 2012 Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female.

I only wish this film had received wider recognition and acclaim, as it’s a marvel.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Supporting Female-Harmony Santana

2012 Films, Drama, French, Independent, Independent Drama, International, International Drama, Jacques Audiard, Marion Cotillard, Matthias Schoenaerts, Romantic Drama

Rust and Bone-2012

July 26, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Rust and Bone-2012

Director Jacques Audiard

Starring Marion Cotillard, Matthias Schoenaerts

Scott’s Review #137

Reviewed July 26, 2014

Grade: B+

Rust and Bone (2012) is a French language film that tells the difficult love story of a successful, cultured, whale trainer (Stephanie) who is seriously injured in an accident and left without legs.

She has an unlikely romance with an unemployed former boxer (Ali), who leads a troubled life providing for his young son.

Marion Cotillard and Matthias Schoenaerts give outstanding performances as the two leads. Their powerhouse acting is simply the main reason to watch this film. They are amazingly convincing and Cotillard’s performance alone is astonishing.

Cotillard, who has already won an Oscar for La Vie En Rose (2007), is one of the best younger actresses around, and Schoenaerts showed great promise in 2011’s Bullhead.

The film is character-driven as both lead to difficult, challenge-filled existences. Ali attempts to return to boxing and Stephanie attempts to cope with life after losing limbs. Together they slowly bond and a love story blossoms.

Slow-paced, realistic, and complex, the relationship between the two is at the heart of the film.

The one negative I found with the film is how the story direction meanders to several different plots, some even unnecessary to the main story, so much so that it becomes unclear what the main story is supposed to be.

This results in an uneven viewing experience.

Still, beyond that flaw, Rust and Bone (2012) are well worth the price of admission for the superb acting and wonderful love story told.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best International Film

Welcome to my blog!1,505 reviews posted so far! I'm Scott Segrell and I reside in Stamford, CT. My site features hundreds of film reviews I have written since I launched the site in 2014. I hope you enjoy reading my latest reviews or searching for your own favorites to see if we agree. Please see my featured films of the month, and don't forget to utilize the tags and category links.