Argentina 1985 is a docudrama telling the story of the world’s first civilian trial of a military dictatorship. It is a courtroom drama lightened with humor and stories of families. A good film, but maybe a bit difficult to absorb. (3.5*)
The Batman is one of this year’s best movies. While nominally an action film, it also is thrilling detective story, told at a human level.
(2*) House of Gucci is an overly long mess that fails to establish a consistent tone.
Cruella (4*) – A delightful diversion with great chemistry between the two Emmas and an interesting story of how movies happen.
(4 Stars) A film noire psychological thriller that keeps your interests, darkly.
(3.5 *) Technically near perfect, but lacking in the dramatic storytelling.
A summary of 2021’s Crime Films, and a look back to the best of 2020.
(3.5 Stars) An Indian tale of ambition and an indictment of Western capitalism.
(3.5 Stars) An interesting film with some very good dramatic elements. But seems to have some heavy-handed government overlays.
(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.
The Irishman (4.5 Stars) Joker (4.5 Stars) Knives Out (4 Stars) Les Miserables (3 Stars) Richard Jewell (3 Stars) IMDB Benchmark (The Godfather/12 Angry Men)
(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 Stars) Interesting and well done, but not exactly memorable.
(4 Stars) Does everything a mystery should do and then some. Sharp and witty.
(4.5 Stars) Difficult to watch, especially right now. But perhaps necessary.
(3 Stars) Although critics rate this the second best movie of all 37, I found it tough to follow and lacking in empathy. This is one that probably deserves a second viewing.
(4 Stars) Perhaps the strangest film on this year’s list, it certainly keeps your attention.
(4 Stars) This surprising little gem will leave a mark on your heart.
(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.
Questa del Rio News: Questa, New Mexico.
Gringo Gazette: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Sierra County Sun: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.