The Divergent Series: Allegiant

I have mixed feelings about this movie and this series as a whole. I enjoyed the first film, but I felt the second veered too far into the "main character as a Christ-child" trope. This last film in the series doubled down on the Christ-child imagery and didn't give me enough of the people and city in which I had developed an interest. I appreciate knowing more of the story, but I felt it was at the expense of everything this series had worked so hard to build up. I saw every turn coming and every plot point the script was going to hit way before it did. However, in spite of that, I was engaged by the film and did enjoy it on some level. I would be interested in seeing the fourth installment if it ever gets made, as this really wasn't a satisfying ending for me. Overall, it was okay, but nothing spectacular. 3/5

The Divergent Series: Allegiant on Netflix

The Martian

What can I say? This is a brilliant movie from start to finish. Damon is wonderful, the script flows evenly, and it doesn't feel two hours and twenty minutes long at all. There's no question this is indeed an Oscar film - it's bold and brilliantly executed from start to finish. Here's to hoping I see more films like this. 5/5

The Martian on Netflix

Steve Jobs

Having recently watched "Jobs" with Ashton Kutcher I was very curious about this film and how it would differentiate itself from "Jobs". I was especially curious to see Fassbender's performance, especially given his Oscar nod for it, and I wasn't disappointed in either respect. I'm not a huge Danny Boyle fan, as I tend to think he emphasizes style over substance, but this film was more solid in tone and pace than much of his past work. Fassbender did a marvelous job as well, and really took command of the screen as Jobs. But, if I'm being honest, I'll take Kutcher's performance any day of the week and twice on Sunday. While this was a slick film, I preferred the steady pace and scope of "Jobs" and thought Kutcher did a superior turn in the role. That may not be the predominant opinion, but it's mine. 3.5/5

Steve Jobs on Netflix

Howl

What was perhaps Franco's greatest performance was derailed by a meandering & sloppy production but still engaging. 3.5/5


Howl on Netflix

Paper Man

This poignant drama starts out slowly & subtly but builds to equal parts loveliness & heartbreak. Special shout-out to Ryan Reynolds who, as Captain Excellent, really made this work. Beautifully done. 4/5

Paper Man on Netflix