Can’t Miss Concept Doesn’t
With a compelling story and an A-List cast, the story of making Michael Jordan the centerpiece of Nike’s shoe brand looked like a Jordan slam dunk. And it is. Directed by Ben Affleck, and starring Affleck, Matt Damon, Viola Davis, Jason Bateman, and an outstanding supporting cast, this lives up to high expectations.
“The Phantom of the Open” Film Brings Smiles and Emotions
A look at the new film highlighting the story of middle-aged dreamer Maurice Flitcroft, who somehow plays the 1976 British Open qualifier, despite barely having played the game. Mark Rylance and Sally Hawkins shine in this funny, touching, and inspiring little film.
Clink Scale 7.3
Back to the Theater With the Flash and Fun of “In the Heights”
A real joy to be back at the cinema and to reviewing films with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s story of his Washington Heights neighborhood. The vibrant musical is not without it’s flaws, but is joyous summer fun, and a worthy way to return to the movie theater.
“12 Angry Men” Resonates, Over and Over
The classic courtroom drama starring Henry Fonda, and directed by Sidney Lumet,
turns a simple setting into an electric drama filled with technical genius,
brilliant acting, and a riveting message.
Clink Scale 9.4
Read MorePut Reservations Aside and Race to the Extraordinary“Parasite”
Director Bong Joon-ho’s film became the first foreign language film to win Best
Picture, and subtitles are soon an afterthought in this stunning mix of genres. Satire, social
commentary, light comedy, black comedy, thriller, horror film, and more all rolled into one
incredible experience.
Clink Scale 9.6
Read MoreLooking for Some Different Christmas Entertainment Fun? He’re You Go
Sure, watching familiar fare is great, but maybe you’s would like to check
out my look at these two different options to light up the holidays.
The Shop Around The Corner 9.1
Mister Magoo’s Christmas Carol 7.3
“Ford V Ferrari” is Standard Studio Solid, Lifted by Stars
Thrilling true racing story is a bit paint-by-the numbers, but Christian Bale, Matt Damon, a great
cast, and stunning sounds and visuals, kick it up a gear.
Clink Scale 8.1
Read More“Zombieland: Double Tap” Overcomes My Phobia
Funny, well-acted and executed, this mainstream zombie film
winningly moves me out of my comfort zone.
Clink Scale 7.2
The New Documentary “Mike Wallace Is Here” Comes on as Strong As It’s Subject
Danny gives his views on the overall excellent film, which is heavy on career, and
less so on the personal side of the late “60 Minutes” legend.
Clink Scale 8.4
Read MoreIndependent Film “Woodstock or Bust” Rises on a Relationship, Lags Elsewhere
Watchable and competent, the film shines when the young ladies interact,
drops down a level when larger issues are explored.
Clink Scale 5.7
Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time …In Hollywood” Is His Normal Curious Stew
Part love letter to sixties Hollywood, part murder-mystery, his latest is undeniably fine,
and, as usual, open for discussion.
Clink Scale 8.3
Read MoreThe Varied Documentary “Echo in the Canyon” Profiles a Musical Time and Place
Using a multi-platform approach, the film pays tributes to the beginnings of the Laurel
Canyon music scene and bands like The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, The Beach Boys and
more.
Clink Scale 7.4
Read MoreThe days leading up to the tournament, and the two weeks of play, are at the heart of “Borg VS McEnroe”, a film that came out earlier this year. It was in limited release, and came and went quickly despite fine reviews, which the film deserves.
Clink Scale 7.5
Ron Howard’s Documentary “Pavarotti” is Straightforward and Entertaining
Not any kind of big reveal or expose, this portrait of the legendary tenor focuses
on music and laughter.
Clink Scale 7.6
Elton John Biopic Musical Has High and Low Notes
Entertaining and uneven, featuring fine performances, but
creative overreach, the film is a puzzle.
Clink Scale 6.9
Read More“Booksmart” Might Take a Step or Two Too Far, Though Generally in the Right Direction
Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut is a coming of age film featuring two great leads, many interesting
supporting characters, and a slightly overstuffed script, which works nicely for the most part.
Clink Scale 7.4
Read More“Catcher Was a Spy” Wastes a Fine Story and Cast
Paul Rudd, and a talented supporting group, can’t rise above
multiple issues.
Clink Scale 5.9
Read MoreAn Underappreciated Classic, “Diner” Impacted Many Films to Come
The 1982 film launched numerous great careers, but it’s more important for just
being great movie-making fun.
Clink Scale 9.2
Read MoreSwinging Sixties Seminally Presented
Danny reviews a film of it’s time, that stands the test of time, this standout 1966
effort.
Clink Scale 8.4
“They Shall Not Grow Old” Breaks Incredible New Ground
Peter Jackson’s labor of love is a unique documentary about World War I,
and a master class in the use of film.
Clink Scale 8.4
