Christine

I had remembered a story about a depressed reporter taking drastic action on the air from my childhood, but I really knew nothing about the life of Christine Chubbuck. For me, the ending of this film was easy to spot early in, but I can imagine many being surprised by what occurs. Rebecca Hall gave the performance of a lifetime in this - she was tragic, bold, emotional, restrained, kind, and, often, all of these things at once. The whole of the movie is excellent - there really no flaws to it. Watch it, but be prepared to be jolted by it. 4.5/5

Christine 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

A Promise

I didn't see the last third of this period drama coming which was a plus, but otherwise it was rather neatly done 3/5

The Promise on Netflix

Closed Circuit

A solid action/crime thriller with solid acting by Hall and Bana, although the ending was unfulfilling. 3.5/5

Closed Circuit on Netflix

The Awakening

This psych thriller is both stylish & smart - I guessed only a small bit of it. Wonderfully acted as well. 4/5

The Awakening on Netflix

Lay the Favorite

This comedy based on a true story is funny & entertaining but certainly not deep - a good popcorn flick. 3/5

Lay the Favorite on Netflix

A Bag of Hammers

What an astonishing movie this was - powerfully written & acted. What a surprise & not at all as described. Honestly everything about this little indie film was better than The Avenger which I was earlier tonight. A revelation. 4.5/5

A Bag of Hammers on Netflix

Everything Must Go

Will Ferrell is surprisingly earnest & sensitive in this rather poignant drama with a good heart. Well done 4/5

Everything Must Go on Netflix

Please Give

This was simply a bunch of damaged people doing damaging things to each other. Where was the comedy again? 2/5

Please Give on Netflix