It Comes at Night

This is a gorgeously directed psychological horror film that reminded me in tone and feel to "The Witch", which I found spectacular. The acting is solid, and the script is doled out very slowly and carefully, creating a sense of tension that was almost palpable. I admire post-apocalyptic films that never show the apocalypse, but rather leave that horror in the past and unseen. I also have to mention there was an interesting visual trick that happened slowly over the course of the film. I didn't notice it until the end, and I actually started the film again and advanced through it slowly to see if I was right in what I saw, which I was. I've never seen it done before, and I'm not going to spoil it for anyone who rents this, but, if you do rent this, just keep your eyes open, and if you miss it, start it again immediately. You'll see it. Kudos to this film, I definitely enjoyed it. 4/5

It Comes at Night on Netflix

Midnight Special

This sci-fi thriller was not your average fare. It was thoughtfully composed and never obvious in its intent. We are never given easy answers to the questions being asked, which was refreshing. The tone and feel of the film was very modern, but the direction felt a throwback to movies like "Close Encounters", which was, again, very thoughtfully done. The script was a bit barren at times, and there was no character development to speak of, which is why this isn't getting a higher rating. Still, a solid sci-fi film - I enjoyed it. 3.5/5

Midnight Special on Netflix

The Gift

Joel Edgerton makes his film-making debut by writing, directing, and co-starring in this tense psych thriller. Jason Bateman is a standout playing entirely against type, and Rebecca Hall is solid as well. Edgerton handles his multiple hats with great aplomb - this is a solid movie that was both suspenseful and scary. Well done. 3.5/5

The Gift on Netflix

Black Mass

I've seen quite a few films about Whitey Bulger in the last few years, so, plot-wise, I didn't feel like this film necessarily added anything new to the subject. However, the acting in this was absolutely top-notch. It's been a lot of years since I've seen Johnny Depp really sink deep into a role, long enough that I'd forgotten how good he can be. He is at his best in this film, where he seems to inhabit Bulger heart and soul. The whole of the cast was really on their game, and the direction and script were solid. A well done film about a well known subject. 4/5

Black Mass on Netflix

Wish You Were Here

This Aussie thriller is pieced together non-linearly, making the end reveal that much more powerful. 4/5

Wish You Were Here on Netflix

Warrior

This magnificently acted film allowed its characters to unfurl like dark roses. Absolutely stunning & amazing. There were 2 scenes that maybe 10 living actors in the world could have pulled off & Nolte NAILED both of them. Brilliant. 5/5

Warrior on Netflix