Favorite films
Don’t forget to select your favorite films!
Recent activity
All
Recent reviews
More-
A Real Pain 2024
A road trip comedy that felt fresh, not because of a cliché “truth” the characters found on their journey, but because the journey ultimately won’t impact their lives in a meaningful way.
Remarkable performance by Kieran Culkin too. I was expecting a re-run of the aloof and nihilistic Roman Roy from Succession, but he really did explore and showcase a new character in Benji that was filled with life and curiosity but was also so deeply lost (loved how he…Translated from by -
The Holdovers 2023
I regretted watching the trailer for “The Holdovers” as soon as I saw it. Sure, the 70s aesthetic and Paul Giamatti’s panicked expression next to the title reveal made for a fun two and a half minutes. But, with its extensive focus on the plot, I felt like I had not only seen this movie, but three or four just like it. After actually watching the film, I am pleased to say that Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers” is a deserving…
Translated from by
Popular reviews
More-
Blue Valentine 2010
Derek Cianfrance’s Blue Valentine depicts every nuance of a marriage doomed from the start in excruciating detail. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams deliver career performances as they explore the entire emotional spectrum between ecstasy and sorrow.
Some thoughts:
The first shot of the film is Cindy and Dean’s child Frankie calling for their dog Megan. Frankie’s actual screen time must be less than 20 minutes total, but the early focus on her is crucial. For the audience, she is the…Translated from by -
The Batman 2022
Overall fine. The cast is nothing short of spectacular, but with the exception of Robert Pattinson, they feel underused (particularly John Turturro playing Carmine Falcone). The plot itself is a well-paced hybrid of the noir and superhero genres, but it ultimately takes too much from the clichés of both, resulting in a predictable, though ultimately entertaining mystery thriller.
The art direction, as the trailer indicated, was the standout of the film. This is my favorite depiction of Gotham, with the…
Translated from by
