Miss Sloane

I am of two minds of this film. The first mind is that it is an excellent thriller. I have loved Chastain since her very first role in "Jolene", and I still think she's an unrated and brilliant actress. The whole of the cast was spot on, but they'd have to be to keep up with Chastain and the amazing performance she gave in this. The plot is also expertly written, and I never saw half the twists coming. But here's the thing, the thing with which the other half of me is troubled. I don't know why it was necessary to demonize everyone to the right of political center in this film. Yes, political posturing was inevitably going to be a part of this, but, how it shook out, everyone working for gun control had ethics and everyone against it were monsters, with one obvious exception of course. It wasn't necessary to the film - it in fact weakened it as I began to feel too many characters were cartoons instead of people. It was jarring and unneeded, and I wish the filmmakers had trusted in their script and cast to carry this film without it. Still, it was an excellent film, and I have to give it four stars. 4/5

Miss Sloane on Netflix

The Brothers Grimsby

Oh dear gods I hated this so much. It is honestly one of the stupidest and most unfunny comedies I've ever seen in my life. Just vulgarity for no real point and utterly absurd. I realize this might be right up some people's alley, but it definitely wasn't up mine. I can't believe I finished it honestly. Awful. 1/5

The Brothers Grimsby on Netflix

Approaching the Unknown

This is a difficult movie to watch at times. As the utter hopelessness of the situation settles in, the sense of dread becomes palpable and claustrophobic. The direction and acting were kept very minimalist, which I felt enhanced the growing feelings isolation and loneliness. The ending was both triumphant and filled with absolute despair, which was really the only way this film could end. It's a good film, but I'm not sure how fun it was to watch. 3.5/5

Approaching the Unknown on Netflix

Closer to the Moon

This black comedy has great action & acting butt plot that doesn't deliver the emotional depths needed. 3/5

Closer to the Moon on Netflix

Kingsman: The Secret Service

This spy thriller is a fantastically good romp with great action and characters. Great fun to watch, I hope there's a sequel.

Kingsman: The Secret Service on Netflix

Before I Go to Sleep

As I continue my sojourn through the films of 2014, I am becoming more and more upset at the choices the Academy made this last year. This film is no exception. First off, Nicole Kidman well deserved an Oscar nomination for this masterful performance. I haven't seen her this good in many years, and perhaps never this nuanced and mature in a role. Second off, the script of this psych thriller was stronger and more fulfilling than most of the clear Oscar bait that got nominated. Like "Gone Girl", this thriller starts from a terrifying ending and builds backward until the truth is revealed, layer by layer. It's a strong story expertly told by the three leads and beautifully lensed by the director. So why wasn't this film given the nods it deserved? Because it wasn't "safe"? Because it was done open the Hollywood system? Because we've stopped caring about excellent performances outside the mainstream? Whatever the reason, "Before I Go to Sleep" is an excellent thriller that deserved far more. Watch it. Trust me. 4.5/5

Before I Go to Sleep on Netflix

Welcome to the Punch

McAvoy is making great film choices lately and this smart & stylish suspense thriller is no exception. 3.5/5

Welcome to the Punch on Netflix

Zero Dark Thirty

A thrilling, gripping, & perfectly plotted thriller expertly acted & directed. Chastain was marvelous. 4.5/5

Zero Dark Thirty on Netflix

Tinker Tailor Solider Spy

The acting in this spy thriller is fantastic, the direction lush & the plot deftly weaved. Well done! 4/5

Tinker Tailor Solider Spy on Netflix