T2: Trainspotting

I was pretty terrified to watch this if I'm honest. For me, "Trainspotting" was one of those rare films that got everything right. The acting, the writing, the directing, the music... it was all so perfect and I felt there could be no way in hell this sequel could ever live up to that. But, the whole original cast, Danny Boyle back, even the same writers... how could I not watch it? The first 40 minutes were rough. Meeting everyone again, slowly bringing everyone together... something was off. The music wasn't quite right, the direction felt odd, the tone was too serious, because, let's remember, the original is a comedy. And then, exactly 40 minutes in, suddenly, like someone flipped a switch... it was right. Everything was right. It felt like "Trainspotting". It looked and sounded like "Trainspotting". It was truly blessed. Now, even after that magical turn, there were problems. Some things never quite turned around, but, wow... they really did it. They made a worthy sequel, one I laughed and cried at. And, as the gods are my witness, some of Boyle's best shots in his whole career are in this film. If you are a fan of the original, sit through the not-great first 40 minutes, and enjoy most of the rest. 4/5

T2: Trainspotting on Netflix

In Secret

This is a dark, depressing, tragic drama, there's no doubt about that. The innate misery of the plot seems to have turned off most reviewers, but I appreciated the tragedy of this film. Isaac, Olsen, Lange, and Felton all did magnificent jobs in the lead roles - you could almost feel their collective pain melting off the screen. I have always loved Olsen, but I'm a new fan of Isaac, who was a marvel in this. i really enjoyed this film, pay no attention to the naysayers. 4/5

In Secret on Netflix

Filth

If McAvoy doesn't win an Oscar for this there is no justice. Brilliantly blindingly amazing - I loved this so hard, 4.5/5

Filth on Netflix

Everyday

I love simple stories told well but I wished for a little more meat here. Great acting by Henderson & the kids. 3/5

Everyday on Netflix

Life During Wartime

Todd Solondz's sequel to Happiness is just as dark & twisted as it should be but lacked a bit of flair. 3.5/5

Life During Wartime on Netflix