Working Girl (1988), 2.5 Stars

Joan Cusack

Another movie found on Netflix. A slow-moving story that took a while to build and resolve about a woman trying to move ahead in the (male-dominated) work force of the financial sector.

You should check out the all-star cast of current (in 1988) and future stars including (but not limited to): Melanie Griffith, who received an Oscar nomination for her work; Harrison Ford, shot after the Star Wars trilogy but in the midst of the Indiana Jones series - it is quite a different character for him and sometimes he doesn't appear comfortable in his role; Sigourney Weaver, in between her Ghostbusters roles; and, Joan Cusack, who was recognized for her comedic work in this off-the-wall role as well as a couple of other films shot around the same time.

Working Girl is also worth a look to see some of the sites and styles of New York City (including the Twin Towers). You might like it.

Field of Dreams (1989), 3.5 Stars

Burt Lancaster in 1947

This is one of my favourite films but I had never seen it on the big screen. That changed when my wife and I were the only ones in a theatre for a recent screening. It was great. The main difference was that background sounds (birds chirping, wind blowing, etc) were more noticeable.

A recent article compared it to It's a Wonderful Life. I'm not sure it's a classic, but it's pretty good. The casting is great: Kevin Costner (For Love of the Game) and baseball are a good fit; Burt Lancaster (Birdman of Alcatraz); James Earl Jones (Hunt for Red October); Ray Liotta (Charlie St Cloud); Timothy Busfield (West Wing); and, Amy Madigan (Uncle Buck) are all strong.

If you haven't seen it, I strongly recommend it. And on the big screen if you can find it.

Always (1989), 2.5 Stars

John Goodman

Found this recently on Netflix. I remember enjoying it many years ago and seeing it again confirmed all that.

The story is pretty basic about fire-fighting and relationships, and moves along well. The acting is also fairly basic but I'm not sure more is needed: Richard Dreyfuss (The Goodbye Girl) is his usual wise-cracking self with some emotion tossed in; Holly Hunter (whom I think I've only seen in The Firm) is very believable and shows a wide range; and, John Goodman (King Ralph) also plays a familiar, blustery role. The surprise is Audrey Hepburn (Breakfast at Tiffany's) in what must be one of her last roles - she's interesting to watch but I'm not sure she fits the part.

I'm glad I saw it again and recommend it if you have a quiet afternoon or evening.

Pete's Dragon, 4 Stars

Bryce Dallas Howard

Well, it has been a long time since a movie surprised me in such a simple and positive way. Pete's Dragon is a remake (also by Disney) of an animated version from the 1970's.

It is a simple premise about the discovery of a dragon (no surprise) and the individuals of all ages who react to and interact with it. And along the way it effortlessly captures your heart and imagination.

The Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) is excellent and portrays a very believable character. The acting is strong with Robert Redford (Sneakers) playing his (now usual) senior role, while (newcomers) Oona Laurence and Oakes Fegley are very credible and effective young actors. I like Bryce Dallas Howard (The Help) and admired her restraint in what could have been an overly sentimental part.

I really want to see this again and, if possible, while it's still in the theatres. Go see it!

Zootopia, 3 Stars

There are times we postpone seeing some movies (especially animated), in case our grandchildren want to see them in the theatre. But in this instance, it was a strong recommendation from our daughter that encouraged us.

Zootopia is a delightful movie. It tells an important and inclusive story through many interesting, and well-developed, characters and I recommend it to you.

The story moves fluidly and uses humour well. The only recognizable voices for me were Bonnie Hunt (Return to Me) and a funny cameo by Peter Mansbridge (CBC TV) portraying TV newscaster Peter Moosebridge.

I enjoyed this and would see it again.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2, 2.5 Stars

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Well, it took me long enough to see the final instalment. It wasn't worth the wait.

If memory serves, this was the darkest of the four Hunger Games movies. The story drags, some scenes were definitely creepy and I really only felt I was seeing it 'out of duty'. Also, as it was one of the final films of Philip Seymour Hoffman (Twister) (for which I gave it an extra 1/2 star).

Jennifer Lawrence (Silver Linings Playbook) and Donald Sutherland (MASH) are very intense, as is Julianne Moore (The Fugitive), who is superb.

I'm not sure I'd see it, or any of the other three, again.

Star Trek: Beyond, 3.5 Stars

Chris Pine

I like most things Star Trek. This movie joins that list.  The story is wall-to-wall action, a little long, and only has one occasion when I couldn't figure out how Uhura and Sulu got to where they now were. The music continues to haunt. But the film has some dark scenes of violence that do not add to, and in fact detract from, the overall product.

The cast is (suitably) led by an excellent performance by Chris Pine (has he had substantive acting lessons since The Princess Diaries 2?) and also a surprisingly strong Sofia Boutella (Kingsman), who is rumoured to be joining the ongoing cast. Zachary Quinto (ST series) still fails to inspire (sorry Joss!). Karl Urban (Lord of the Rings) is delightfully dry and Simon Pegg (Mission Impossible series) shows a little more acting range and also co-wrote a pretty fine script. The late Anton Yelchin (ST) had started to develop his character well.

I'd see it again, probably more than once.

Ghostbusters: Answer the Call, 2.5 Stars

Kristen Wiig

Well, it's Ghostbusters.

They do a nice job, keep it moving and it's an okay story.

The four key actors are wide-ranging in likability, talent and what they deliver: Melissa McCarthy (Spy) plays her usual role; I like Kristen Wiig (The Secret Life of Walter Mitty) but either her role is badly written or she delivers it poorly (or both); Leslie Jones (with whom I'm not familiar) wasn't notable; but the pleasant surprise for me was Kate McKinnon (again whom I don't know) - she delivers her lines and plays her role with panache and is fun to watch.

I don't think I'd see it again and recommend that you wait til it's a rental.

EDITOR'S NOTE: About an hour after posting this, my daughter asked that the following be added:

***DO NOT wait for rental, since this movie was protested by Men's Rights Activists for the mere fact that the film is led by women.When a movie led by women tanks at the box office, studios see it as a sign that women can't carry a film. When a movie led by men tanks, they just consider it the occasional box office bomb.

It is also worth noting that sociological studies show that while women are fairly consistent in their reviews of films, regardless of the gender, race, or sexuality of the stars; men are more likely to give unfavourable reviews to films in which they do not see themselves properly represented (because God Forbid a film isn't about a straight white dude).

This becomes hugely problematic for the Hollywood ecosystem, as 80% of critics are men, so most people see unfavourable reviews for films led by anyone other than white men: whether it's women, people of colour, differently abled people, or members of the LGBT community. These less favourable reviews undeniably impact the box office.

But let's make another Mission Impossible movie where Tom Cruise runs a lot. Or another Bourne movie where Matt Damon punches people a lot.

My suggestion: if you really can't handle watching women kick ghost ass for a couple of hours, pay for the Ghostbusters ticket anyway and then sneak into the Star Trek theatre. 

The glass ceiling is thick. 

The Legend of Tarzan, 3 Stars

Alexander Skarsgard

I liked this movie (but it could have had less violence).

I grew up watching Johnny Weismuller (who apparently did 12 Tarzan films in the 1930's & 40's)*, so I'm a fan of the overall concept.  Alexander Skarsgard (whom I'm not familiar with) does an acceptable job in the lead role and Margot Robbie (About Time) is good as Jane. Samuel L. Jackson (the Marvel series) is very good providing some comic relief and Christoph Waltz (Spectre) is excellent as the dislikable villain.

The Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) is very well done and provides many animal scenes that support the legend. It was also enjoyable watching Tarzan swinging on the vines.

* (I'm not THAT old...)

Love & Friendship, 2 Stars

Kate Beckinsale

Well, the critics loved this and you might.  I didn't.

The story felt long and it was confusing trying to keep track of who was whom. I'm still not sure that Kate Beckinsale (Remember the Titans) can act and I didn't find the rest of the cast memorable. I included an extra 1/2 star for the beauty of the locations and the costumes.

If you liked Barry Lyndon (1975), you'll probably like this.  I didn't.

Suffragette, 3.5 Stars

I liked this movie.

Carey Mulligan (Pride & Prejudice) is the glue of the film and quietly dominates the scenes she's in. Meryl Streep (Kramer vs Kramer) has essentially a cameo role and another actress could have filled in. Brendan Gleeson (HP series) does a fine job in his wide-ranging role. And Helena Bonham Carter (The King's Speech) continues to impress with her skilful portrayal.

A good story, some of which was tough to watch but well done.

Captain America: Civil War, 3 Stars

Chris Evans

I haven't seen all of the Avenger movies. I wasn't clear on what was being referred to for about half of this one. Accordingly, I think there should be an 'Avengers for Dummies' primer (please direct me to it, if there is).

This movie is entertaining and filled with humour. The list of stars goes on and on: Chris Evans is somewhat subdued; Robert Downey Jr is one of my faves and doesn't disappoint; the writing for the female characters is below par and their performances are weaker as a result; and, William Hurt seems to be underused.

A highlight was the intro of Tom Holland as Spider Man. The dialogue in his segment feels like it was done by a different writer and includes some very funny one-liners.

With a few tweaks, this one could / should have been rated higher. Don't think I'll rush to watch this again, nor necessarily see the other upcoming instalments of the Marvel franchise.

Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse, 3 Stars

Claude Monet 

This interesting documentary is based on an exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, England. I believe 'modern' is defined as post-1870 and the emphasis is on the use of light in art but also (obviously) the role of the garden.

It features Claude Monet, who is famous for his gardens at Giverny, France that he designed and planted. While planned, it is known for it's wild look, where varieties are paired with other 'unusual' flowers based more on colours and shapes rather than compatibility.

All of this is juxtaposed with more ordered garden layouts, such as many of those in England or Germany, and features some of the painters who painted them.

The film moves along well and is visually stunning. I enjoyed it and look forward to finding it again.

Mother's Day, 1.5 Stars

Britt Robertson

The critics warned me, my daughter warned me, and now I'm warning you - run, don't watch. Director Garry Marshall is on a downhill roll and hasn't produced a critically acclaimed hit in nearly 25 years.

The only interesting performance was by Hector Elizondo (Pretty Woman), who plays the same role consistently. I'll also mention Britt Robertson (whom I liked in Dan in Real Life), who may or may not have a future if she gets a good part...

If you must, I'm sure this will be free in some form soon. I had a BOGO coupon, on a Tuesday afternoon, which ended up costing only $2.75 (Cdn$) each. Oh well...

Coach Carter (2005), 2 Stars

Samuel L. Jackson

Found this on Netflix, recommended as similar to McFarland (which I liked). Formulaic and predictable tale about now successful, former high school basketball star who helps out his old school.

Solid acting by Samuel L. Jackson (Ironman series) and some recognizable other faces, but not much else.

I'd watch again if there was nothing else on.

Hello, My Name is Doris, 2.5 Stars

Tyne Daly

This movie got good reviews, has some very good acting and is, admittedly, well done.

Sally Field (Steel Magnolias) is very good, as is Max Greenfield (whom I'm not familiar with). Tyne Daly (TV's Judging Amy) plays her usual role and I liked Isabella Acres, who is fairly new.

The film deals with social issues such as hoarding, people who don't 'fit' into society, and types of friendships. The story lurches from scene to scene initially and then finds its groove. But overall I felt edgy (which I'm sure was the intent) and made me think about relationships of which I didn't wish to be reminded.

You might like it. I wouldn't see it again.

Demolition, 2.5 Stars

Chris Cooper

Bleak is how I'd describe this. It's about (small spoiler alert as this happens in the first 5 minutes) a husband who loses his wife and then deals with his grief in bizarre way.s

There is some good acting: Jake Gyllanhaal (October Sky) shows a different side, playing a not-very-wistful leading character; Chris Cooper (The Company Men) is his usual crusty, effective self; Naomi Watts (whom I've only seen in Angels & Demons) shows a wide range of skills; and, introduces Judah Lewis who is very effective with a promising future.

The movie and story flow are definitely thought-provoking. But they're not thoughts I'd like to dwell on and I doubt I'd see it again.

Painted Land: In Search of the Group of Seven, 3.5 Stars

Peter Raymont

A lovely, bountiful documentary about three people searching for sites where the Group of Seven must have painted in the 1920's.

The team sets out in the Agawa area north of Sault Ste. Marie and then further north and west along Lake Superior. The Group's art had a profound and positive effect on Canadian Art that continues today.

There are many occasions in the film when it appears the exact spot has been discovered, matching the film's visual with a copy of the painting. It was at these times that I wanted to stop, rewind and examine each match (but I'll wait til I can control the viewing...).

(Peter Raymont is part of the production and is included for classmates who knew him at Queen's.)

I found the visuals and the topic to be sumptuous, Canadian and very moving. I recommend it (if you can find it).

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, 2 Stars

Nia Vardalos

An enjoyable repeat of the first film, with most / all of the cast returning.

Once again, Nia Vardalos and John Corbett carry the show, along with the Andrea Martin (none of whom seems known for much else).

An enjoyable two hours but I'm not sure I'd see again. Good rental.

Lady in the Van, 3 Stars

Alex Jennings, courtesy of Standpointmag

Well, this is one strange, delightful movie. Based on a book, it is both weird and wonderful.

Maggie Smith (Ladies in Lavender) gives an Oscar worthy, superb, and haunting performance as the lady who lives in her van. Alex Jennings (The Queen) is also very effective as her 'landlord'. The supporting cast has a wide range of characters who add a lot to the story.

This one will stay with me for some time I think. Perhaps surprisingly, I'm not sure if I'd see it again. But I do recommend it highly.

Trumbo, 3 Stars

Elle Fanning

This is a very good movie. More like a cross between a biopic and a documentary, it is a good story about the anti-American committee in the late 1940's and supposed activities that they tried to suppress.

Bryan Cranston (Argo) gives a superb, heartfelt performance. Diane Lane (whom I didn't realize was in The Full Monty) is her usual luminous self and Louis C.K. (American Hustle) plays a very credible character. It is the underrated Elle Fanning (We Bought a Zoo) who is a delightful surprise as Trumbo's daughter. She holds her own in scenes with him and shows a wide range of ability.

I liked this film very much and recommend it to you. I would see it again.

Take Me Home (2012), 2.5 Stars

Sam Jaeger

This is an independent film that we found on Netflix. It is a romantic-comedy that does not follow the 'usual' formulae.

The story is about a supposed cab driver who drives a woman across the continent to see her family.Written and directed by Sam Jaeger (TV's Parenthood), it features Jaeger and his wife Amber (who does not appear to have much of a filmography).

There are some good scenes with realistic dialogue, some beautiful vistas and a different ending. I'm not sure I'd watch it again, but if you're looking for something to pass the time it should suffice.

Kung Fu Panda 3, 2 Stars

This is an okay film for kids (but not too young). It was a little too violent for both me and my granddaughter.

It is a basic story but the actual philosophy expressed and portrayed at the end of the film I found quite intriguing (and was probably lost on young audience members).

I like Jack Black (School of Rock, 2003) - his voice is distinctive as are his mannerisms (which the animators try to portray). The other voices were not aurally recognizable.

I wouldn't go out of my way to see this again.

The Bucket List (2007), 2.5 Stars

Jack in 1976

I really like this film. It's very basic and straightforward but is a joy just to watch two all-time greats work together.

The repartee and dialogue is natural and fun. Jack Nicholson (Easy Rider, 1969) seems to put more into his outlandish character and Morgan Freeman (Driving Miss Daisy, 1989) is calmer as befits the part. Sean Hayes (Will & Grace, TV) is very good in a supporting role as is Beverly Todd who was also in Lean on Me (1989) with Freeman. I also liked Rowena King who looked familiar but her 'filmography' didn't ring any bells.

Having a 'bucket list' is an intriguing concept which I like (but don't personally hold to) and it is interesting to watch this one. I can and will watch this often.

Bridge of Spies, 3 Stars

I liked this movie. It is long (2 hrs & 15 min) and deliberate. It is somewhat like Cast Away which Tom Hanks was also in - long and ponderous and it could have been shorter.

But it is a good and interesting story. Hanks is, of course, his usual competent self and dominates the film. Mark Rylance, with whom I'm not familiar, is excellent playing a calm, unflappable character. The rest of the cast is solid but no one else stood out.

We rented this and so we could take breaks along the way. I'm glad I saw it but I'm not sure I'd see it again.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969), 3 Stars

Dame Maggie Smith 2007 Wikipedia

This movie is worth seeing if only to watch a young Maggie Smith in 'full flight'. She dominates each scene (even when not on the screen) and she was honoured with an Academy Award that year.

There are also strong performances by Robert Stephens (Zeffirelli's Romeo & Juliet 1968) and Pamela Franklin (who doesn't appear to have accomplished much else in film).

The movie shows some age and has a '1960's feel' to it but is still a good story. We found it on Netflix.

Alan Rickman, 1946-2016

Alan Rickman (Wikipedia)

I was sad to hear of Alan Rickman's passing.

I always admired the effort and interpretation he put into each of his roles. I cannot yet imagine a future re-make of the Harry Potter series, but surely his is the definitive Snape. He rescued an insipid version of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with his excellent Sheriff of Nottingham. And one of my favourite movies and characters of his was as Colonel Brandon in Sense & Sensibility.

He was always precisely articulate, yet mellifluous, and he shall be missed.

Brooklyn, 3 Stars

Saoirse Ronan (Wikipedia)

This is a lovely film. It's a gentle story set in the early 1950's, well told and beautifully shot (some of the Brooklyn scenes were shot in Montreal).

The acting is understated - Saoirse Ronan (whom I don't remember in Grand Budapest Hotel) shows good range and character growth - one critic labeled her as 'one to watch' in the future. Emory Cohen (whom I'm not familiar with) does very well. I don't know if the accent by Julie Walters (HP series and Calendar Girls) is realistic, but she dominates the scenes she's in. And I'm starting to admire the work of Domhnall Gleeson (also HP series & Star Wars: The Force Awakens), who is subtle but strong.

I would see this again and I recommend it to you.