It’s tough being the new kid at school especially when you have the social skills of a mudskipper. All it takes to make things better is to connect with one person who gets it, though. Finding two is even better. In Summit Entertainment’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Charlie is lucky enough to learn…
For nearly the first hour of Snow White and the Huntsman, Rupert Sanders — in his directorial debut — sticks to the dark, gritty, violent, realistic fairy tale template laid down by Terry Gilliam (of the Monthy Python troupe fame) in the excellent, but misunderstood “The Brothers Grimm.” Then, two bad things happen: He allows…
Whether it was needed or not, the stage sensation, Les Miserables, is making its way to theaters yet again. With a powerful cast, Universal Pictures’ adaptation, stays true to the play, following paroled prisoner Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) as he seeks redemption in a gritty 19th-century France. The trailer runs through some powerful backdrop scenes…
I suppose you need to be in a New York state of mind to enjoy Lola Versus, but, Philistine that I am, I just could not pull it off. I also know exactly what many of the smug, self-styled intellectual reviewers are going to write and say about this film. That it’s smart, quirky, snappy,…
Anders (Anders Danielsen Lie) is a thirty-four-year-old recovering drug addict. Soon to complete his rehabilitation in the countryside, he’s allowed to go into the city for a job interview. Using the opportunity to explore Oslo, he’s confronted by the ghosts of his troubled past. Directed by Joachim Trier (whose 2006 debut, “Reprise,” made a splash…
There are many ways to learn the art of constructing a compelling narrative: One can read classic novels and plays; one can watch great films and television shows; one can read ancient Greek dramas or watch professional wrestling; and one can even watch serial fiction: From old time movie serials to modern soap operas. I…
What to Expect When You’re Expecting. It’s “New Year’s Eve” in the neo-natal unit; “Valentine’s Day” with a uterus; “Knocked Up” times five. Unfortunately, that’s about the best I can about this film featuring the ups and downs of having a baby. In an attempt to jump on the multi-story, large cast bandwagon, director Kirk…
