Triangle of Sadness starts as an interesting riff on money and sexual politics, turns into a disgusting display of sophomore humor, and ends as an insult to the audience. How did this become an Oscar nominee? (1.5*)
The Fabelmans is a well crafted movie focusing on the roots of Steven Spielberg’s remarkably successful career. Still, it might not be for everyone. (4*)
Tar is movie requiring much patience and concentration, but the rewards are unique. About a female who achieves the top position in the classical music world and then falls, it is also about power, individualism, and, yes, cancel culture. My first (5*) movie of the year.
Everything Everywhere All at Once is an insane look at one woman’s romp through the multiverse as she learns what is really important about life. (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
(3.5 *) Another good take on family. Terrific setup in the first 10 minutes.
(3.5 *) Technically near perfect, but lacking in the dramatic storytelling.
(3.5 *) Alana Haim is a real gem, but the movie is a Hollywood-inside-joke.
(4.5 Stars) Quite likely the Best Picture of the Year. Let me explain why.
(4 Stars) A film that walks a fine line between drama and messaging. And a terrific Mikkelson performance.
(4.5 Stars) A terrific thriller that is also a romantic comedy and a social commentary. Fun in many ways, but with an important message.
(5 Stars) An exceptionally well crafted movie that moves you through multiple emotions all while exploring the complexities of social class.
(4.5 Stars) In addition to what you expect, it shows that old folks still have huge creative talent. Still one of the best pictures of 2019.
(3.5 Stars) A movie Of Hollywood, By Hollywood, and, most importantly, FOR Hollywood!
(4.5 Stars) Difficult to watch, especially right now. But perhaps necessary.
2/5 Oscar Nominations: Foreign Language Film (Poland)Director (Pawel Pawlikowski)Cinematography (Lukas Zal) Maybe one shouldn’t screen this movie after watching the German film “Never Look
(3.5 Stars) Liberals will find humor and lots to support disliking Cheney. Conservatives, well, maybe you should avoid this one.
(3 Stars) Although laced with fun and titillating moments throughout, the movie doesn’t deliver a totally coherent message.
(5 Stars) One of my favorite movies of the year, a black man joins the KKK. Although it sounds like a comedy, this is a Spike Lee movie full of important messages.
(5 Stars) Probably the best movie of the year and a great example of excellence in all dimensions. A must-see film.
Questa del Rio News: Questa, New Mexico.
Gringo Gazette: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Sierra County Sun: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.