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.