Patriots Day

This Peter Berg thriller about the bombings at the Boston marathon was exceptionally well done. I don't know what corner Mark Wahlberg turned in his acting, but he put in another solid performance here. All the supporting actors were excellent as well. The music was quite well done, which, given that I'm not a huge fan of Reznor/Ross scores, is a big compliment. There really wasn't a misstep in this film - I really enjoyed it. 4.5/5

Patriots Day on Netflix

The Meddler

I admit I'm not a big fan of Sarandon but she was really great in this. It reminded me of "Hello, My Name is Doris" in feel and tone, although I connected more with the message of "Doris". A solid feel-good comedy with good performances. 3.5/5

The Meddler on Netflix

Contraband

Seriously, when did Mark Wahlberg decide he was going to actually act again? I've been disliking and avoiding his films for so long that I apparently missed when he discovered he really liked acting and wanted to do it well. This 2012 heist film had a snappy script and great acting across the board, including Wahlberg. Of course, I had to see it, because Caleb Landry Jones is in it, but it was definitely worth the watch. Solid film, I enjoyed it. 4/5

Contaband on Netflix

Men, Women & Children

This reminded me of a Todd Solondz film, very edgy and interesting. I liked the various explorations of how each character used the Internet to define or find themselves. Solid acting as well, good film. 3.5/5

Men, Women & Children on Netflix

The Ladykillers

This Coen brothers farce felt forced & utterly absurd - I didn't feel connected to it at all. Not good for me. 2/5

The Ladykillers on Netflix

Jobs

If we're giving Oscar nods to exceptional performances in safe films, where was Kutcher's last year? He's AMAZING in this. 4/5

Jobs on Netflix

A Beginner's Guide to Endings

An endearing little dramedy with great acting - I loved the story & the resolution. Well done. 3.5/5

A Beginner's Guide to Endings on Netflix

First Snow

Guy Pierce is fantastic in  this compelling thriller that only needed a stronger end to really satisfy. Well done. 3.5/5

First Snow on Netflix

The Good Doctor

Orlando Bloom was superb in this subtle, understated & cerebral drama with a great ending. Very well done. 4/5

The Good Doctor on Netflix