The Program

I'm a big fan of professional cycling and I was very aware of Lance Armstrong and the controversy surrounding him for many years before his confession. Having seen so much of Lance, cycling, and all the people involved with the Tour throughout the years, it was positively amazing to see how perfectly these actors captured the essence of their subjects. Ben Foster as Armstrong was breathtaking. He nailed every aspect of Lance, from his physical ticks when he speaks to his EXACT posture on the bike. Stephen Frears smartly got David Millar to advise the racing portions of the film, and Millar's oversight brought such an authenticity to the filming that I often could not tell the difference between racing footage and the actors themselves. This film is a tour-de-force job by everyone involved - if you are a fan of cycling you cannot miss this. 4.5/5

The Program on Netflix

Philomena

This Frears drama is beautiful, poignant & emotional with wonderful acting, but Best Picture worthy it's not. Don't get me wrong - it's a fantastic film. But I expect a level of immortality in a nominee & I don't think Philomena had it. 4/5

Philomena on Netflix

My Beautiful Laundrette

I don't get the fuss over this early Frears film - it honestly bored me to tears. Not for me I guess. 2/5

My Beautiful Laundrette 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

Tamara Drewe

Frears latest is a saucy rom-com that sees a wonderful performance by Tamsin Greig - the acting makes this work. 3.5/5

Tamara Drewe on Netflix

The Snapper

I dunno - nothing about this film gelled for me on any level. It was sweet enough but I honestly didn't care. Bah. 2/5

The Snapper on Netflix

The Hit

A young Stephen Frears took a shaky script & made it shine with excellent casting, acting & direction. Well done. 3.5/5

The Hit on Netflix