20th Century Women

I wasn't sure how I would feel about this film coming in, as I feared it might get preachy and forced. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was more of a celebration of life, coming of age, and what it means to be alive and free. The acting was very strong across the board, and the script was witty and clever whilst still being deep and meaningful. I found myself very drawn into the story and I loved the way it ended. Very moving, I recommend it. 4/5

20th Century Women on Netflix

The Neon Demon

I never thought I'd say this, but I've finally seen a Nicolas Winding Refn film I didn't like. I'm shocked, I've been so in tune with his style and his narrative that I've loved everything he's done, but this? Not this. It's beautiful, but of course it's beautiful. Refn has an eye that no one else in cinema has, so "The Neon Demon" has all the style in the world. But there is no substance here at all. There's barely a plot, the acting is stilted, and the story banal. So many things were inserted just for shock value alone, such as the necrophilia sequence, and for me it just detracted from what could have been a probative look into what constitutes beauty. I know he was trying to push the envelope with this film, but he could have done so without sacrificing the plot. So, for me, not good, and I'm super disappointed to say that. 2/5

The Neon Demon on Netflix

Trumbo

Once again, I find myself writing a derivation on a theme. This is a fine movie with a great performance by Bryan Cranston, but I simply cannot say it was good enough to warrant a Oscar nomination. A nomination should go to someone who has done something transcendent, who has totally lost themselves in a role and become someone else. Cranston was great, but I always knew it was Cranston. To me, that is not Oscar-worthy, and given how many performances were better last year - and I'm just getting started mind you - I really don't understand this trend. A very good film nonetheless. 3.5/5

Trumbo on Netflix

We Bought a Zoo

What's happened to Cameron Crowe? This, like "Elizabethtown", is painfully average with very good acting. Meh. 3/5


We Bought a Zoo on Netflix

Super 8

What was a good idea was thoroughly ruined with sappy choices, bad direction & sentimental music. Such a shame! 2.75/5

Super 8 on Netflix