The Big Sick

The trailer for this movie is deceiving. I expected a basic run-of-the-mill Apatow comedy, but this was something different. This was far more a drama than a comedy, with a decidedly dark tone to the whole film. I don't mean dark as in black comedy... I mean dark as in "oh shit, is the main character going to die???" kind of dark. I wasn't expecting it but it worked really well, and I felt the balance of the lighter scenes to the much heavier scenes to be just right for this story. The film was co-written by one of the leads, Kumail Nanjiani, who turned in a strong acting performance as well. The acting was extremely solid all the way through. especially Ray Romano's great performance. I enjoyed this, it hit me in the feels. 4/5

The Big Sick on Netflix

The Monster

What makes this creature feature so outstanding is the acting from the two leads, Zoe Kazan and  Ella Ballentine. Both gave such superlative performances that I completely believed them and thus was brought wholly into this tense and claustrophobic world. The direction was tight and edgy and the script, peppered with flashbacks to draw out the mother-daughter relationship, was excellent. Highly recommended. 4/5

The Monster on Netflix

What If

This charming romcom was both witty & sensitive - I thought it would end up with people behaving badly but it didn't. 3.5/5

What If on Netflix

In Your Eyes

A truly lovely & charming film, right up until the last unbelievable 15 minutes. Kazan is a vision though. 4/5

In Your Eyes on Netflix

Some Girl(s)

LaBute is the master of cruelty & this film is no exception although the end reveal was one of his weaker ones. 3.5/5

Some Girl(s) on Netflix

Ruby Sparks

Zoe Kazan's wonderful script takes risks & dark turns & is worth every moment. She & Dano are magical in this. I continue to maintain that Paul Dano is the most underrated actor of his generation - far too few realize how talented he is. 4/5

Ruby Sparks on Netflix

HappyThankYouMorePlease

The main plot is ridiculous & oddly disturbing, but the 2 subplots are quite lovely. Odd film. 3/5

HappyThankYouMorePlease on Netflix