Burnt

I feel like I've been souring a bit on Bradley Cooper lately - I think it feels like he's been spinning his wheels a bit I guess. I loved what he did in this film though - he was fire one moment and water the next. He really gave this his all and I appreciated it very much. The script was a bit lean though - could have used more character meat and about 10 more minutes to develop backstories a bit more thoroughly. Overall, nicely done, I was fully engaged. 3.5/5

Burnt on Netflix

The Danish Girl

Let's start this review by stating the obvious. This is the best Eddie Redmayne has ever given, far better than the role his won the Oscar for last year. He was beautiful and poignant and tragic and shy and delicate and courageous and transformative. He was a revelation and I will be stunned if I see much better from this year's crop. However, the movie itself was Oscar-bait at best. It was shallow and vapid and hung entirely on the performances of Redmayne and Vikander, who was also outstanding and rightfully deserving of her awards. I understand the acclaim for Redmayne but not for the movie itself. I continue to be amazed at the actions of the Academy. 3.5/5

The Danish Girl on Netflix

The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

I'm normally not a Guy Ritchie fan, but I found myself really enjoying this. It was smart, stylish, well acted, extremely well directed, and the plot was engaging throughout. This was a nice surprise for me. 4/5

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. on Netflix

Ex Machina

This sci-fi film is certainly intriguing & makes a poignant statement on the nature of god & man. Interesting. 4/5

Ex Machina on Netflix

A Royal Affair

This period drama is  very poignantly acted & exceptionally directed - I found it quite moving & romantic. 4/5

A Royal Affair on Netflix