Camp X-Ray

I've said it before and I'm going to keep saying it until everyone is hearing me. Kristen Stewart is a far better actress than what was seen in the "Twilight" movies. Her performance in this was subtle, emotional, and extremely nuanced. There's a scene right at the end where she's fighting with herself not to cry, and it was so poignant and eloquent I exclaimed to myself. The plot of this is very solid, and the direction is tightly wound and well-paced. A good film. 4/5

Camp X-Ray on Netflix

Clouds of Sils Maria

I don't know how I wound up renting so many movies with Kristen Stewart in them so close together, but this is another one. Again, I protest that anyone who still believes Stewart can't act needs to watch her in something like this, which is essentially a two woman powerhouse drama with her and Juliette Binoche. I maintain that anyone who can stand up to Binoche as Stewart does for nearly two hours is one heck of an actress, because Binoche is magical in this, as in all things. The problem with this movie and the reason it only has three and a half stars is the ending, which is... nonexistent. After investing so much time and energy into these two women, the ending we are given is, quite frankly, insulting. I understand the metaphors at play, I really do, but it is so unsatisfying that I docked a half star for having to suffer through the last fifteen minutes of this. A great movie for one and three quarter hours, but be prepared to hate the end. 3.5/5

Clouds of Sils Maria on Netflix

Anesthesia

I wonder if the public at large is aware of the incredibly impactful films Tim Blake Nelson has been creating for the past several years. I realize he's just that funny looking actor-guy to many, but he has grown into an amazing writer and director in these last years. This new work of his is a deftly penned non-linear drama with full-bodied characters, a well woven plot, and an ending that socked me in the gut. A wonderful film, very potent and affecting. 4/5

Anesthesia on Netflix

Equals

I'm not sure why there are so many negative reviews of this on Netflix. I found this to be a very interesting and engaging film. Kristen Stewart was tremendous in this - anyone who still labors under the assumption that she can't act need look no further than this film. Nicholas Hoult was also marvelous, the script was solid and engaging, and the direction quite lovely. I really loved the ending to this film - unexpected and very moving. I recommend this one for soft sci-fi fans. 4/5

Equals on Netflix

American Ultra

As Jesse Eisenberg is a fantastic actor who makes great movie choices I will literally watch anything that he's in, and rarely be disappointed. This action comedy was no exception. It was witty, quirky, action packed, and had great performances from everyone. And yes, that includes Kristen Stewart, who was surprisingly effective in this. Definitely a good time. 4/5

American Ultra on Netflix

Into the Wild

I found this film far more disturbing & tragic than inspiring but I was surprised at how much I liked it. 4/5

Into the Wild on Netflix

On the Road

Supremely tedious, pretentious & boring with not a single relatable character. I fast forwarded the last third. 2/5

On the Road on Netflix

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 2

A surprisingly satisfying conclusion to a messy wreck of a series. I can live with that. 3/5

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 2 on Netflix

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1

Why do I keep torturing myself with these terrible movies again? I must be a masochist. 2/5

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 on Netflix

The Yellow Handkerchief

Finely acted, this romantic drama has a fetching plot that's interesting despite being predictable. 3.5/5

The Yellow Handkerchief on Netflix

Welcome to the Rileys

Leo & Stewart were great, but the story just rubbed me the wrong way - it wasn't honest or genuine. 3/5

Welcome to the Rileys on Netflix

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

What kind of idiot chooses Edward after all that? Team Jacob, y0. Still pretty average for my taste 3/5

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse on Netflix