Morgan

I wanted to like this more, especially with this cast, but I found everything that happened to be so predictable. This was very by-the-numbers, even the direction felt retread. The acting was indeed excellent, but this was just okay for me. 3/5

Morgan on Netflix

Ironclad

Oh wow, this was truly excellent. I always seem to forget how awesome Paul Giamatti is, and then I see him slaying in a film like this and I remember why I love him. Everything in this film is on point. The script is tight, the direction really compelling, and all the acting is excellent. It's also really violent, so be warned. An excellent film. 4.5/5

Ironclad on Netflix

Straight Outta Compton

I remember when the album "Straight Outta Compton" came out. I had never heard anything like it - it blew me away completely. I wore out a few copies of that cassette, that's for sure. This caught the magic that was that album and the subsequent drama that followed it. I am honestly stunned that Jason Mitchell and O'Shea Jackson, Jr. did not get nominations for their roles as Easy-E and Ice Cube. I haven't seen any of the films for Best Picture yet this year, but the quality of this film is easily better, in my opinion, to both "The Imitation Game" and "The Theory of Everything" which got nods last year. At the very least Mitchell should absolutely have a spot in the run for Best Actor, of that I'm damn sure. This is a powerful film about a powerful time in music. Watch this film. 4/5

Straight Outta Compton on Netflix

San Andreas

This is enjoyable in the same way "Twister" was. It's a basic story graced with very good actors and regrettably bad CGI effects. The CGI was bad enough in spots that it took me right out of the film, but The Rock has come so far with his acting ability that he was a joy to watch as usual. It's good popcorn fun, and if you like popcorn action flicks, this is worth a rent. 3/5

San Andreas on Netflix

Love & Mercy

Dano & Cusack are both Oscar-worthy in this powerhouse of a drama told in non-linear fashion. Just amazing. 4.5/5

Love & Mercy on Netflix

12 Years a Slave

It's hard to put into words what I'm feeling right now about this film. It is certainly one of the most powerful and affecting films I've ever seen, and I cried great, ugly tears throughout the end. It's hard for me to think objectively right now, since I still feel as I've been punched in the gut. What I will say - Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong'o were both astonishing and both deserved Oscars for their roles. The story is long but perfectly paced - I can think of nothing I would have cut save for perhaps the tail end of one long shot. I did find Brad Pitt's presence distracting - I wish they had used another actor for his small role. So far, this is definitely the best picture of the year, and I frankly don't see from where the hate for this incredible film stems. A worthy film, most worthy, and I think it will be a while before I forget the emotions I am feeling right now. 5/5

12 Years a Slave on Netflix

Parkland

A smartly written & well acted drama detailing the assassination of JFK that adds a great deal to the discussion. 4/5

Parkland on Netflix

John Dies at the End

This bizarre sci-fi horror film is strangely engaging & compelling - I predict it going cult. 3.5/5

John Dies at the End on Netflix

Rock of Ages

Tom Cruise is transcendent in this perfectly casted but oddly edited adaption of the hit musical. So much fun. 4/5

Rock of Ages on Netflix

The Ides of March

The acting in the compellingly written political thriller is stellar - Gosling is magnificent as always. 4/5

The Ides of March on Netflix

Win Win

Giamatti is truly excellent in this moving drama with characters you really care about from start to finish. Well done! 4/5

Win Win on Netflix

Barney's Version

Paul Giamatti is exquisite (as is Hoffman) in this romantic dramedy about life and love. Simply splendid. 4/5

Barney's Version on Netflix