Thursday 30 July 2015

Mr. Holmes, 3.5 Stars

This is a very good movie with a unbelievably strong performance by Ian McKellen - he dominates every scene.

The story is good and, to my knowledge, follows the Sherlock Holmes legend very well. As with any of the other recent Holmes versions (Cumberbatch, Robert Downey Jr, and TV's Jonny Lee Miller), it needs to be viewed again to catch all the clues presented. The movie is based on the book: A Slight Trick of the Mind. 

Milo Parker, who is new, is impressive. And it is hard to imagine Laura Linney in a minor and somewhat subservient role, but she does it well.

But McKellen is the reason to see this film.

12 Angry Men (1957), 4.5 Stars



This is a great movie, based on an equally great play.

The all-star cast is superb - there is not a weak performance amongst them.  The character development of each of the twelve jurors is a pleasure to watch.  Henry Fonda, E.G. Marshall, & Lee J. Cobb are all fabulous and Jack Klugman & Jack Warden are also very strong.

I see this movie every 5+ years or so and it doesn't wear out. I have not seen the 1997 re-make.

Ant-Man, 3 Stars

I like this movie - I think it's suitable for most ages. I also like the Marvel series of movies and, while not a major contributor, Ant-Man will add to the repertoire.

The plot is basic and straightforward and moves along well. Paul Rudd, of whom I've not been particularly impressed, does a very decent job; Michael Douglas is his usual dry self; and, Canadian Evangeline Lilly plays her role in a sardonic manner.

I'd see it again to pick up some of the nuances.