Michael Young

All Quiet on the Western Front

All Quiet on the Western Front – A Gut Punch Focus on War (4*)

A German production, All Quiet on the Western Front re-adapts the 1928 novel of the same name, adding some distinctive scenes and commentary to the story of a young German man, and his friends, thrust onto the “Western Front” to fight the French in the final months of World War I. Accompanied by some stunning cinematography, dominating sound and music, and visceral visual effects, the film reaches new heights in presenting the horror of war. It also adds another, very important message about how events are felt differently depending on where you stand on the social ladder.

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Banshees of Inisherin

The Banshees of Inisherin – When Friendship Ends (4.5*)

Set during the Irish Civil War in 1923, in a very small village on an isolated island (Inisherin) off the coast of Ireland, Padraic (Colin Farrell) finds his lifelong friendship is torn when his older best friend, Colm (Brendan Gleeson) suddenly, and without apparent reason, finds him “dull” and no longer wants to be with him. The change alters both men, and the entire village, both emotionally and physically. Martin McDonagh’s carefully written and directed script is executed by an Irish-born cast with seemingly perfect chemistry. A must-see film for any adult interested in how and why relationships, of any kind, change and, sometimes, end. (4.5*) The Banshees of Inisherin

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Cyrano

Cyrano (4*) – A wonderful movie with a powerful performance from Dinklage – even if the music isn’t all that great.

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Cruella

Cruella

Cruella (4*) – A delightful diversion with great chemistry between the two Emmas and an interesting story of how movies happen.

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No Time to Die

No Time to Die

(3.5*) No Time to Die is exactly what you expect from a Bond film. Sixty years after Dr. No, the franchise has changed, but lives on.

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Attica

Attica

Attica (4*) – Disturbing presentation of the four days of the deadliest prison riot in US history. It probes not only the riot, but also fundamentals of racism. This isn’t fun, but is perhaps necessary.

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