Boyhood, 2 Stars

I was looking forward to the movie which was nominated for various awards. I confess I was disappointed.

First, it's long. Second, it doesn't move quickly. And while the technique (shot over 12 years with the same cast) is unusual, the story didn't grab me nor my imagination. (And it could easily have been called 'Girlhood'.)

Patricia Arquette was excellent and deserving of the awards she garnered. Ethan Hawke and supporting cast were good, but Hawke basically plays himself.

We saw this at home (no charge on Canadian Netflix) and decided to spread out our viewing over three nights. Perhaps this contributed to the 'slowness' - but I doubt it.

Boychoir, 3 Stars

This is an enjoyable film. Totally formulaic, but it still works.

It's a nice cast, led by the incomparable Dustin Hoffman and with a not-very-recognizable Debra Winger, who does a good job in the brief scenes that's she's in. I can attest that the choir boys are pretty accurately portrayed (although I was never at that skill level).

The highlight for me was the lead up and start of Zadoc the Priest composed by Handel (and also known as the Coronation Anthems). The work always sends chills down my spine and this version did not disappoint. I will see the movie again (several times) for that one part alone.

And the rest will also be worth seeing again. Boychoir didn't last too long in our local theatres but should also be a good rental.