The Ward

I wasn't really having this film until the last ten minutes, and then everything fell beautifully into place. I literally went "OHHHH!" out loud. I haven't seen a John Carpenter film in ages so it's good to see he still has a good directorial touch. I have been liking Amber Heard's work as of late - this, being several years ago, was still a bit shaky for me, but she was getting there. An interesting film. 3.5/5

The Ward on Netflix

The Adderall Diaries

I wanted to love this film, but I only liked it. The script was strong and well-crafted, and I appreciated the direction as well. Most of the cast is very solid, with a standout performance from Amber Heard that really held the story together. The weakest link was Franco, which surprised me quite a bit, as I usually like his roles and choices. His acting felt hollow, staged, more a performance than an authentic representation of the character. Ultimately, that feeling of emptiness dropped my estimation of this film into feeling it was okay, good maybe, but certainly not great. 3/5

The Adderall Diaries on Netflix

And Soon the Darkness

This is one of those horror flicks where, if anyone made one single rational and responsible decision, none of this hell would have happened. A very average fright fest. 2.5/5

And Soon the Darkness 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

Magic Mike XXL

 If we're being real, "Magic Mike XXL" doesn't have as solid a plot as the first film. Hell, it barely has a plot at all. But that doesn't matter, because it's just so much fun. It's worth the price of admission to see Channing Tatum hang with Twitch. Amazeballs. 4/5

Magic Mike XXL on Netflix

Paranoia

This slick thriller is lovingly lensed and featured master classes in acting from Oldman & Ford - quite well done. 4/5

Paranoia on Netflix

Syrup

This was stylishly directed but very shallow & empty in plot, leaving me wanting to know & laugh more. Just good. 3/5

Syrup on Netflix