Carol

Maybe it's just me, but I really wasn't feeling this drama as much as I thought I would, and here's why I think it didn't work for me. The whole picture hinges directly on the restraint the two main characters, played by Rooney Mara and Cate Blanchett, have to have on the love they feel for each other. The problem for me was that I felt that restraint turned into a coldness and lack of passion that only erected a wall between them. Mara and Blanchett dialed it back so much that I just didn't feel what I needed to in order for the story to work. This was just okay for me. 3/5

Carol on Netflix

The Monuments Men

A solid Clooney drama that hits all the notes I expected with a nice lot of comedy to boot. Well done. 4/5

The Monuments Men on Netflix

Blue Jasmine

This is the first Woody Allen movie I've truly loved - darkly poignant & beautifully acted - tragically lovely. 5/5

Blue Jasmine on Netflix

Hanna

Saoirse Ronan is immaculate in this taut, well designed & perfectly paced action thriller. I really enjoyed this. 4/5

Hanna on Netflix

Oscar and Lucinda

Cate Blanchett's debut. She was as brilliant then as she is now. Sweet, tender, beautiful & inexplicable. 3.5/5

Oscar and Lucinda on Netflix

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Wonderful, beautiful, magical, transforming, amazing in every way. A truly moving film in every way. 5/5

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button on Netflix