Movie #1966 ........................."The Durrells: " Seasons 3 and 4 (netflix)

 Movie #1966 "The Durrells" Season 3 and 4 (netflix)  Well, we breezed through seasons 3 and 4 and continued to find the stories funny and the characters charming.  In fact, we were sad when it came to an end, and we rewatched the "What they did" documentary now that we knew who was who.  I will do a blog on that, as well. 

 These two seasons brought more and more changes to Louisa's life (a couple new boyfriends who bring along more heartache for her) and the kids.  Margo moves back to London and tries out a few other jobs and boyfriends; Larry moves to Paris and a few other places, trying to find better places to write;  Leslie continues to be Leslie -- tries out being a cop, an actor, a carnival worker, while still pining for the wife and  child he thought he was going to have; and Gerald got more and more animals and then had to say goodbye to them all.    Added delightfully to the list of main characters are Spiros, the taxi driver, Sven and his partner (the gay goat farmers), the doctor and his wife, Theo (Gerald's mentor) and Lucretzia (sp?) the Greek housemaid.  It became a family we were members of for a couple of weeks, and they left a lasting impression on us.  Very enjoyable, and to be sure, we added Corfu now to our bucket list.  We give it 5 stars out of 5.  (P.S. and we bought the book the series is based on:  "My Family and other animals") 

"DURRELLS"  2018, 2019            about 46 mins each             Episodes Season 3 (8), Season 4 (6)

Based on the real-life events of the Durrell family as they resettle from England to Greece.

Stars:

 Keeley Hawes, Josh O'Connor, Milo Parker 

Movie #1965 ........................."To Each His Own" (TCM)

Movie #1965 "To Each His Own" (TCM) -- I had always wanted to see this movie mainly because of the academy award Olivia de Havilland won for best acting  --- I had seen the other one many many times (for "The Heiress"), but never this one, and I am glad I finally did.  What a complex  script!   And it  handles several tricky subjects here -- adoption, parenting, loneliness.  I really liked  the way the film opened --- de Havilland is spending her New Years Eve in fire watching (during the 40s) along with another man who seems to be a curmudgeon, only nodding and grunting as she talks to him.  He's very condescending the way he treats her as they go about their work until there's an accident where she helps him out and some ice is broken between the two.  We then find out that they are both so lonely and have been for many years.  She actually opens up to him about why she is the way she is and tells him about a son she illegitimately had with a soldier who died in WW2 and gave him up for adoption, and she found out he was coming in by train very late tonight and she intended to meet it.  And the story goes from there with some flashbacks.   It is heartbreaking, and reminded me of the film "Stella Dallas" with the two mothers giving up their children in order to make a better life for them.  And Olivia de Havilland does the whole gamut here and deserved the award.  I highly recommend it if TCM ever shows it again -- or you can get your hands on the dvd.  I'd give it 4.5 out of 5. (just for being a bit lengthy)

"TO EACH HIS OWN"  2 hours, 2 mins         1946 

An unwed mother, forced to give up her child to avoid scandal, follows her son's life from afar even as she prospers in business.

Director:

 Mitchell Leisen

Writers:

 Charles Brackett (screenplay), Jacques Théry(screenplay) (as Jacques Thery)  |

Stars:

 Olivia de Havilland, John Lund, Mary Anderson

Movie #1964 ........................."Princess O'Rourke (TCM)

 Movie #1964 "Princess O'Rourke (TCM)  Here's another Olivia de Havilland film that I DVR'd and watched later.  It is kind of ironic that it shows what would have happened in "Roman Holiday" if Audrey Hepburn left her kingdom and ran off with Joe, the journalist.  It is also reminiscent of "It Happened One Night" when they meet on a bus trip (in this case, she's a princess), she's running away, and he is  thinking she is poor and definitely not a princess.  So in both cases, there is a reveal --- that one comes more than halfway through the film, and then we think that there will be a problem once he knows, but surprisingly, Bob Cummings takes it quite well --- he's that much in love.  But when he can't one in the service or act like a free person he would be in the US, that's when he complains --- and then it goes familiarly to the conflict of her giving up her kingdom or not --- The ending of this film is kind of abrupt ---and it doesn't deal with problems they probably will have.  But otherwise, it is a fun romp of a film, with a very young Jane Wyman and Jack Carson in secondary roles.  So this is a strong cast, and love that Bob!  (title of Bob Cummings' t.v. show I used to watch way back when)  He and Olivia make a very comfortable match throughout and with the  addition of  Charles Coburn as the curmudgeon of a Chancellor, it brings lots of fun to the viewer.  I'd give it 4 out of 5 and recommend it.

"PRINCESS O'ROURKE"      1 hour , 34 minutes        1943

A pilot falls in love with a woman he believes is heading cross country to become a maid, little suspecting that she's actually a princess.

Director:

 Norman Krasna

Writer:

 Norman Krasna (original screenplay) 

Stars:

 Olivia de Havilland, Robert Cummings, Charles Coburn

Movie #1963 ........................."It's Love I'm After" (DVD)

 Movie #1963  "It's Love I'm After" (DVD) I watched this most enjoyable old film because Michael Phillips in his tribute to Olivia De Havilland when she died a  couple of weeks ago mentioned it was  his favorite, and I didn't recognize the title.  But I noticed it also  had Bette Davis and Leslie Howard (two other favorites of mine).  It was fast paced and fun.  And it was deeply imbedded with jokes on theatre, acting, shakespeare and other playwrights and shows.  I loved it.  The plot is quite involved , and it keeps the audience on its toes, going back and forth on who loves whom.  It gets away with it because the actor is asked to come over to his biggest fan's house to be such a fad that she will fall out of love for him --- see?  involved.  What makes it moreso is that he starts to think he is falling in love with her!  But Bette Davis is the one  he is supposed to get married to ---- Confusing and crazy but one of the best screwball comedies I have ever watched.  I give it 4.5 out of 5.  In order to see it, I had to send to amazon for it so I can't tell you how you can see it --- short of borrowing it from me, which is fine; just let me know.  

"IT'S LOVE I'M AFTER"      1937    1 hour and 30 mins     comedy      4.5 out of 5

An actor of the stage finds himself pursued by a lovestruck fan while trying to patch up a tempestuous relationship with his actress lover.

Director:

 Archie Mayo (as Archie L. Mayo) 

Writers:

 Casey Robinson (screen play), Maurice Hanline (original story "Gentlemen After Midnight") 

Stars:

 Leslie Howard, Bette Davis, Olivia de Havilland 

Movie #1962 ........................."In This Our Life" (TCM)

 Movie #1962  "In This Our Life" (TCM) was on TCM the other day, which was Olivia De Havilland day on the channel.  It was the first pairing of Davis and DeHavilland, and they were friends for the rest of their lives (De Havilland just died a week ago).  Of course, TCM showed GWTW and "The Heiress," her two most famous films, but this one I hadn't seen, so I sat down  to watch  it.  Of course, it was pretty melodramatic,  but I was impressed, as I usually am, that the acting was so good in the 40s, that I forget I'm watching a black and white film, and get pulled into the story so easily!  I was also impressed that this film tackled a racial story of sorts --- there is a black student studying  to be a lawyer and is a law clerk for the George Brent character -- he is blamed for a hit and run by Bette Davis, and  DeHavilland and Brent fought for this guy against DeHavilland's sister --- and it was nice to see how important and valued his character was --- his mom was Hattie McDaniel from GWTW , and it was nice to see her say more than she was allowed to say  in the earlier film (but she actually won an AA for GWTW, proving her  essence as the  character can win, minus a  lot of words).  If you ever see this pop up on the TCM channel again, I recommend it because it was well acted and a  good albeit soap opera-like , story.  I give it 4 out of 5 stars.   

"IN THIS OUR LIFE"    1 hour and 37 min         1942          (1st pairing of  Davis and DeHavilland )

A young woman, Stanley Timberlake, dumps her fiance, Craig Fleming, and runs off with her sister Roy's husband, Peter Kingsmill. They marry, settle in Baltimore, and Stanley ultimately drives Peter to drink and suicide. Stanley returns home to Richmond only to learn that her sister Roy and old flame Craig have fallen in love and plan to marry. The jealous and selfish Stanley attempts to win back Craig's affections, but her true character is revealed when, rather than take the rap herself, she attempts to pin a hit and run accident on the young black clerk, Parry Clay, who works in Craig's law office.

Directors:

 John Huston, Raoul Walsh (uncredited) 

Writers:

 Howard Koch (screenplay), Ellen Glasgow (novel) 

Stars:

 Bette Davis, Olivia de Havilland, George Brent 

Movie #1961 ........................."All the Bright Places" (netflix streaming)

 Movie #1961 "All the Bright Places (netflix streaming)   I read this book, and when I saw it pop up as a netflix movie with Elle Fanning, I jumped at the chance to see it as soon as I could  -- and the time came about  the other night.  It was kind of a one-of-a-kind book aimed at Young Adults with very serious subjects covered like suicidal thoughts and other mental illnesses.  As the  plot line says below, the two main characters Vi and Theo learn some valuable lessons as their friendship grows throughout the movie.  Very well acted, once again  there isn't a lot of plot here ---- in fact, it deals with visiting places in Indiana for a school project, but the emphasis is rather on  character, and the acting is superb. I found it quite good  and would recommend both the book and the movie --- and give  it a 4 out of 5.  Once again a clean yA movie, but the subject matter lends itself more to the high school audience.  

"ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES"     1 hour and 47 mins     2020

The story of Violet and Theodore, who meet and change each other's lives forever. As they struggle with the emotional and physical scars of their past, they discover that even the smallest places and moments can mean something.

Director:

 Brett Haley

Writers:

 Liz Hannah, Jennifer Niven (novel)  | 1 more credit »

Stars:

 Elle Fanning, Justice Smith, Alexandra Shipp

Movie #1960 ........................."Star Girl"

 Movie #1960 "Star Girl" (Disney +)I found this quite charming, but I'm afraid I'm not the demographic --- I think a teen would enjoy it much more because it deals with the stress to be like everyone else, when you are far from it --- these two kids bring out the best in each other --- the girl is a one-of-a-kind ukulele player who just  moved in and becomes the football good luck charm for the high school --- the boy has tried to fit in most of his life, but there's a streak in him that wants to be his own guy, and star girl brings that out in him.  He is being raised by mom (his dad died and he was very close to him)and their relationship is fun to watch --- and his friends are different and fun to watch, as well.  There's not much of a story, but that's because this is character driven.  The only complain I had is that the girl was a tad disappointing to me --- I thought there could have been more of a twinkle in her eye  --- more charm --- more oomph!  She gets this character across pretty blandly, and I just thought a bit more energy.  He was right on the money --- I was most enamored by his performance, and I hope to see him in more things in the future.  I'd give this 3.5 out of 5 and recommend it , esp. for a teen.  And it is a nice clean story for the family.   

"STAR GIRL" (Disney +)   PG     1 hour and 47 minutes     2020

A boy becomes intrigued by a mysterious and quirky student named Stargirl and spends his time trying to know more about her.

Director:

 Julia Hart

Writers:

 Kristin Hahn (screenplay by), Julia Hart (screenplay by)  | 2 more credits »

Stars:

 Grace VanderWaal, Graham Verchere, Giancarlo Esposito 

Movie #1959 ........................."The Durrells in Corfu" (Amazon Prime streaming)

 Movie #1959 "The Durrells in Corfu" (Amazon Prime streaming - series 1 and 2) -- we instantly took a liking to this show --- we stumbled upon it by way of watching a special that follows what the family members  did afterwards (the show only covers 1935-39, the time they were in Corfu).  We fell in love with the characters watching that special and immediately sought out the original series, and we have been watching 2 or 3 a night ever since.  There are 4 seasons, each with 6 episodes, except for season 3, which has 8, so a total of 26 episodes.  Each, so far, showing the jumbled up lives of these quirky people, with equally quirky people they meet in Corfu.  And boy, does Corfu come across as a lovely place to be ---- well, except for the lack of electricity.  Louisa has been through a couple of boyfriends already, Larry has written a book, Leslie has shot many animals (some for food -- because they are very poor) but also delivered a baby this second season, and Gerry has raised a ton of animals, the latest being a pregnant otter.  What a fresh breeze of a show, esp. after watching a lot of the heavy stuff (like "Money Heist," which we loved but were tense throughout the watch!).  Highly recommend, and we can't wait for Seasons 3 and 4, which we will report on.    

"THE DURRELLS IN CORFU"    2016, 2017 - series 1 & 2    about 45 mins each

Based on the real-life events of the Durrell family as they resettle from England to Greece.

Set in 1935 when the Englishwoman Louisa Durrell, whose life had fallen apart, decided to move from Bournemouth to the Greek island of Corfu. Her husband had died some years earlier and she has financial problems, when she suddenly announces that she and her four children will move to the island and a Homeric battle ensues as the family adapt to life on the island, especially when they discover that Corfu does not even have electricity at that time. But it is cheap, an earthly paradise and the Durrell family make the big step that will change their lives.  There are four kids:  the one-of-a-kind screw up Leslie (who likes to shoot things), Larry (the Hemingwayesque writer), Margo (who is looking for a boyfriend), and Gerry (the conservationist who collects animals (age 10).  

Stars:

 Keeley Hawes, Josh O'Connor, Milo Parker 

Creator:  Simon Nye

Directors:

Roger Goldby	...	(10 episodes, 2016-2019)
Steve Barron	...	(9 episodes, 2016-2019)
Niall MacCormick	...	(4 episodes, 2018)
Edward Hall	...	(3 episodes, 2017)

Series Writing Credits  

Gerald Durrell	...	(26 episodes, 2016-2019)
Simon Nye	...	(26 episodes, 2016-2019)

Movie #1958 ........................."All is True" (dvd)

 Movie #1958 "All is True"*  (dvd)  Even though this film starts slowly, the twists and turns in it work to show the very end years of Shakespeare's life.  This was after the fire decimated his theatre and his business , and he goes back home to re-connect with Anne (Judi Dench) and his 2 daughters.  This is also after 25 years of shelving his grief for the death of his only son, Hamnet.    When he is back home in Stratford-on-Avon, he keeps seeing and talking-to his  son and dealing with the  lingering grief.  He is upset that he never showed that grief earlier.  This is a slow simmer because Will is dealing with coming from fame and fortune in London to some critics in his own home town, and scandals to boot with his daughters and their lovers.   The film really shows the times quite well, and it is well acted!  It is the time of Shakespeare's life that hasn't been shown in film before, I don't think, so I found it quite intriguing. But it's stuffy and not for everyone.  And Kenneth Branagh is simmering through most of this, but Judi and his daughters keep the film energized by their independent and feisty characters.  I'd give this a 4 out of 5.  *"All is True" is the original title of Shakespeare's "Henry the VIII."

"ALL IS TRUE"     PG-13      1 HOUR AND 41 mins          2018

A look at the final days in the life of renowned playwright William Shakespeare.

Director:

 Kenneth Branagh

Writer:

 Ben Elton

Stars:

 Kenneth Branagh, Judi Dench, Ian McKellen 

Movie #1957 ..........................."Backyard Wedding" (movie on Hallmark)

 Movie #1957 "Backyard Wedding" (movie on Hallmark)  -- I had DVR'd this somewhere along the line, and I'm sure it will be on the Hallmark station again.  Disclaimer:  when I dvd'd it, something went wrong, and I missed the first 40 minutes or so (who cares, with these movies, right? if I can catch up, and I did very easily). That being said, this one had likable characters in the two leads --- of course, being a Hallmark fan, I have seen them both a number of times; in fact, I look for Alicia Witt films because they usually have more to them (more complex characters and more plot). Even the Stodgy boyfriend she dumps in the film (uh oh, giving something away? once again, who cares, right?) has a kinder side ---- more truthful anyway, and shows that by the end of the film.  This has a cute ending -- although, I usually don't like the announcement of love in front of crowds (hokey, usually, to me) but the acting carried this one off.  What I esp. liked about the film is that it deals with the question:  how do you really really know he(she) is the right one for you vs just nerves on your wedding day.  It's a good conflict.  I also liked that they had been friends since little  kids and were just "meant to be."  I guess I needed that kind of thought when I watched it --- it helps during the pandemic.  There was an added twist that they had been married, but at the time they were very young and had personal dreams that didn't coincide --- so found love again.  I believe that can happen!     I'd give this a 3.5 out of 5.  Obviously, the negatives concern how YOU could have written out the plot even after not seeing it and you just read the plot blurb below.  But sometimes you want to hang your hat on surety.

"BACKYARD WEDDING"     1 hour 30         2011      PG

The film centers on Kim Tyler, who is set to have the wedding of her dreams in her parents' backyard, but her ex-husband and first love, whose parents happen to live next door, keeps popping up.

Director:

 Bradford May

Writer:

 Nina Weinman

Stars:

 Alicia Witt, Teddy Sears, Markie Post 

Movie #1956 ........................."The Banker" (Apple streaming)

 Movie #1956 "The Banker" (Apple streaming) -- This was really good, and I hope more people get to see it.  I realize not everyone has Apple streaming, but with this and the other offerings they have had ("The Morning Show," "Defending Jacob," ) , we feel like we are getting our money's worth  so far. Anyway, I would liken this to a  heist film, in a  way, because it is built on the premise that this really smart mathematical wiz (Anthony Mackie) figures out a way to make money on buying up properties that he sees worth an effort to fix up but which would  ordinarily be dismissed as "dumps."  He needs a partner because he needs more money and isn't as charismatic as he could be.  In walks the dynamic Samuel L. Jackson.  And they start to make money.  BUT they are black, and they are starting to have problems with where they can do their work (this is in the 60s), so they get a white man to front their business.  It is based on a true story, and there are lots of really poignant moments here that go hand in hand with the  black lives matter movement.  The story is slow in parts, but it kept our interest throughout --- and to know it really happened energized it even more for us.  I personally am a big fan of Anthony Mackie, and although he plays this very low key, I thought he was right on as a very quiet, honest, smart man with integrity who when pushed will show just what he stands for.  Highly recommend.  4.5 out of 5.

"THE BANKER"    PG-13      2 HOURS      2020

In the 1960s two African-American entrepreneurs hire a working-class white man to pretend to be the head of their business empire while they pose as a janitor and chauffeur.

Director:

 George Nolfi

Writers:

 Niceole R. Levy (screenplay by) (as Niceole Levy), George Nolfi (screenplay by)  | 5 more credits »

Stars:

 Anthony Mackie, Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult  

Movie#1955 ........................."Hamilton: History has its eyes on you" (Disney+ short)

 Movie #1955 "Hamilton:  History has its eyes on you" (Disney+ short)  This runs about an hour , and it is well worth the time.  Narrated by Robin Roberts, starring the upper tier of the Hamilton original cast (Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, Aaron Burr, Eliza and Angelica, Jefferson/Lafayette) are joined by an African American Historian with a powerful perspective discuss a bunch of subjects, mostly focussing on the effects of this show (in the middle of a pandemic, during the black lives matter protests, with the Trump white house), and they give background info I hadn't heard before, so I found it quite enlightening and recommend it after seeing the movie.  I give it 4.5 out of 5 --- there's a socko ending here where little kids sing in character the opening of the show --- you have to see it!  Amazing!

Movie #1954 ........................."Aladdin" (non animated - Disney +)

Movie #1954 "Aladdin" (non animated - Disney +)  The animated version I loved, esp. Robin Williams.  I remember being so impressed with the variety, the timing, the great choices  he made as the genie.  Do you remember that?  Well, don't expect it here.  The Genie, to me, was the weakest part  of the film --- I couldn't wait until he shut up.  I found him annoying --- and he had troubles singing the part.  Ugh!  However, I liked pretty much everything else.  It's ironic that the one thing I esp. liked in the animated version, didn't work in the people version.  But  the rest of the story came alive, finally, under the direction of Guy Ritchie.  He used sped up film, variety of shots, special effects, etc.  The film just rocked.  In fact, so much, that there  should have been  a warning on it like they do in theaters if they use a strobe light --- because this uses strobe light  plus!  Very entertaining, and the couple is  really cute, and they  really seem like they like each other!  And what I especially liked is that the female in this film doesn't wait for the man to save her!  They are truly equal at the end and both on that carpet flying around trying to save the kingdom!  Loved that!    So not including  the genie, everything is more entertaining in this version  ---oh, except I sure missed Lea Salonga's rendition of "A Whole New World."  I remember her voice  soaring through the theatre when that magic carpet ride came onto the screen.  But this actress/singer is very competent to get across the feeling of freedom she finally has!  I give  this a 4 out of 5 and recommend  it, even though you may have seen the animated and theatre versions, as well.

"ALADDIN"    2019        2 hours and 8 minutes        PG

A kind-hearted street urchin and a power-hungry Grand Vizier vie for a magic lamp that has the power to make their deepest wishes come true.

Director:

 Guy Ritchie

Writers:

 John August (screenplay by), Guy Ritchie (screenplay by) 

Stars:

 Will Smith, Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott  

Movie #1953........................."Radioactive" (amazon prime movie)

 Movie #1953 "Radioactive" (amazon prime movie)  I am a huge Madame Curie fan ever since I read a book on her in my h.s.days.  A woman who won 2 nobel prizes is an ideal biography for me ---- but something is missing in this film ---- she is portrayed in such a dry, cold, grim way in this story.  The movie with Ingrid Bergman, I can still remember 20 years later, showed such a close, romantic relationship with her hubby, and this one seems to lack that passion.  It definitely gives a nod to the modern interpretation of the female  as being passed over and ignored in her research and studies ---it also covers the first good attitude our society had toward radium, that quickly turned into the negatives.   but to only point those  two things out  make her an angry confused character. And not one we really care about.    What about the illness  she developed from her research?  -- she suggests in a line that she has a problem , but I think  the film might have spent maybe a couple more minutes making her more likable and someone we feel sorry for..... One thing I did like is how it was filmed ---- filmically, it was interesting to watch --- for example, when the Curies first meet, there's  a ballerina they are watching who is doing turns with a big skirt, and occasionally it goes back to that ---- I can' t remember why right now (the  excitement of watching the artist's energy possibly?)  but it was effective.  Bottom line:  this is more than a common biopic, but I'm not sure many people would like it because it comes across passionless.  I give it a  3 out of 5.

"RADIOACTIVE

Pioneer - Rebel - Genius. Radioactive is incredible, true-story of Marie Sklodowska-Curie and her Nobel Prize-winning work that changed the world starring Rosamund Pike and Sam Riley.

Director:

 Marjane Satrapi

Writers:

 Jack Thorne (screenplay by), Lauren Redniss (based on the book by) 

Stars:

 Rosamund Pike, Yvette Feuer, Mirjam Novak 

Movie #1952 ........................."Palm Springs" (hulu movie)

 Movie #1952 "Palm Springs" (hulu movie)  This movie was just okay to me.  It "jumped the shark" about halfway through for me.  Disclaimer:  I am not a fan of the Groundhog Day idea in a film --- where for some reason the main actors are replaying one day over and over --- If I find out that's the premise of the film, I usually dodge it.  However, along came the movie "In Time" Will Rachel MacAdams and Bill Nighy, and that one was so well done to me.  It made sense, or at least I could follow it much better than others (I also like "Back to the Future" but it was made so you wouldn't get lost! that one was easy)  But this one?  I couldn't take a test on it ----- I kept asking Dave :  now why did that happen?  After asking quite a few  questions on the rules of this time traveling, I just gave up.  And I found I enjoyed the picture a tad more.  So that's my advice to you.  Don't find the holes in the process (and there are many, I think)  and just "go with the flow,"  and you probably will find yourself laughing at some of the situations.  Or at least enjoying the film more.  I didn't find either main character endearing to me at all so I never was drawn into their relationship --- and I am a huge Hallmark fan, so that says I usually buy into many relationships I see on the screen.  That's the major reason I would give the film a 3 out of 5.  I think I'd recommend it to movie watchers who esp. liked "Groundhog Day" ---

" PALM SPRINGS"        1 HOUR, 30 mins           R        2020

When carefree Nyles and reluctant maid of honor Sarah have a chance encounter at a Palm Springs wedding, things get complicated as they are unable to escape the venue, themselves, or each other.

Director:

 Max Barbakow

Writer:

 Andy Siara (screenplay) 

Stars:

 Andy Samberg, Cristin Milioti, J.K. Simmons 

Movie #1951 ........................."Hunting Elephants" (DVD)

Movie #1951 "Hunting Elephants" (DVD)  I was "hunting" for a good heist film, and also I was trying to whittle down the large quantity of films that aren't filed in my DVD cabinet because I haven't watched them yet, and voila! This one popped up.  And I'm glad it did.  I really liked this one ---- not quite a 5, but it was on its way toward it.  It's quirky heist full of capable character actors, a slam-dunk opening, a sense of humor with some pathos, and a bullied kid. The Negatives?  (and I guess there are a few because after I watched the film, I looked at rotten tomatoes and it scored 36% critics, 61% audience).  The critics, as usual, thought the story trite, with "old people" jokes" (the demographic is NOT the critics) and an overblown Patrick Stewart acting job that he should be ashamed of.   Hmm.  I liked it because it was different, and this was a Patrick Stewart character I hadn't seen before (and he many times seems overblown to me, playing too big in film  because he is really a stage actor.)  In this case, he  fits right in with this motley crew --- the other two lead older men are a stitch, one being from "The Band's Visit" which is a movie I LOVED!  The other reminded me of "Sneakers" because he is the  older guy who is blind and of course driving the getaway car!  My negatives were that it is a foreign film, for you must read most of the lines --- which takes time particularly with this one because the Hebrew language sounds really harsh in every line -- kind of like German.  So even delicate moments come across as cold sometimes.  But they give us a break in this one because P. Stewart is playing a UK uncle of the kid and thus forces them to speak English to him through some of the film.  The other negative is that I had questions afterwards.  The heist is usually rehearsed so much or talked about so much or whatever, they the fun is watching it in action.  Because we are dealing with silliness and gents a bit past their prime, an actor who wants HIS monologues! and a mastermind who is a bullied 12 year old kid, the plan becomes improvised, leaving the audience to wonder what is going on next and why is it being done that way?  So the heist isn't the pay off, which it usually is in this genre. And there are big holes in the script -- it could have been better.    But I liked it(and better than Dave) so I recommend it if any of the above sounds amusing to you.  I give it a 4.  But I do like heist films, and with older people, too.  And 12 year old kids suffering from grief who re-connect with their curmudgeon grandfathers and still have room in their hearts to re-connect with an uncle who is an overblown British actor!  

"Hunting Elephants"     2013       not rated, but there's some viagra stuff in there!   1 hour 47 minutes

In Jerusalem, a bullied teen befriends his grandfather and long lost uncle and soon they decide to solve their financial problems by robbing a bank.

Director:

 Reshef Levi

Writers:

 Reshef Levi, Regev Levy (as Regev Levi) 

Stars:

 Sasson Gabai, Moni Moshonov, Patrick Stewart  

Movie #1950 ........................."The Assistant" (hulu)

Movie #1950 "The Assistant"(hulu) is a bit of a controversy, and I'm in the middle about my feelings toward the film.  If you look at what the plot is (below) you can kind of tell that it won't be a searing plot full of twists and turns.  That being said, you can't really tell just how glaringly  abusive it is --- and I can answer that it is quite understated.  The one "stated" time she takes to the HR guy, who treats her condescendingly  (expected) and becomes part of the abuse at work, as well.  Because it was so low key, and in documentary style (not a surprise if you look at the director's credits and up until this film, she has only done documentaries) it is painstakingly S-l-o-w.  And too long (like most documentaries I see).  This film definitely has an indie feel to it ---- one that I could have seen at a film festival and would come  out of it saying, "Well, that was kind of good"  but needed some work.  But I suspect that others that see it, and work in an environment similar to the one shown here (and I feel this is becoming quite universal) will think differently.  So those are the negatives -- but the film has great visuals, stark opening in lighting and the way the office is filmed, as she comes first person in and goes through routine of turning on lights and coffee machine, etc.  She, Julia Garner, shows a very minimal character here, and along with the camera, we search for a look of dismay on her face --- a roll of the eyes --- and we get maybe a look away, or just a stare.  Her toolbox is small, but sometime  effective.  (She is from "Ozark" and "The Americans").  I guess as a viewer watching a non-action story, I just wanted more.  And I definitely wanted more information here --- just a tad more dialogue in the office with her boss (we never see him, so can we have a few more lines from him?).  When she talks to the HR guy (the high point?)  I definitely wanted more --- I know that the  whole purpose of the discussion is to show she is shut down at every turn, but gosh..... just a little more.  But after saying more, more, more, I wanted less time in this film.  I feel, with a concise short film, this film could've been so much more effective.  Why go on and on and on?   We got it maybe in the first scene....... so elevate it even more when you go to the next examples, instead of replaying over and over again the same "abuse." (how many times do we have to see her washing dishes at the office?   I'd give it a 3, and I don't recommend it ----- unless you want to see the effective opening.  But know, to me, it doesn't get much better.  But I would like to hear from people who have seen the whole thing and find out  what they though (and I missed)?  I do applaud it for taking a risk in the filming technique.  

"THE ASSISTANT"      2019             1 hour 27 mins          Rated R

A searing look at a day in the life of an assistant to a powerful executive. As Jane follows her daily routine, she grows increasingly aware of the insidious abuse that threatens every aspect of her position.

Director:

 Kitty Green

Writer:

 Kitty Green

Stars:

 Julia Garner, Owen Holland, Jon Orsini  |

Movie #1949 ........................."Hamilton" (Disney + streaming)

Movie #1949 "Hamilton" --- do everything you can to see this great film of the Broadway show --- and see  it as many times as you can.  (if you are like us, we got a month of free use of Disney just to see it, and we've watched it  many times already) Why see it even if you saw the show already?  Well, you don't miss a word because of the subtitles, you have the best seats in the house to watch it, you are allowed a few times to see the turntable at work from above (birdseye view) and the camera  uses closeups and moves  behind the king as he walks in (subjective camera), and the cast is the most rehearsed cast of a film because they had been performing the play  for a year --- and when you see it, you are experiencing  karma  -- the best cast/crew/show all come together for your entertainment!  I can't gush over this film enough!   And the more  times you see it, the more you get out of it!  and there's a possibility that when/if you see this, you will be  watching the best picture of the year  (whether it is nominated for an oscar or not!)  It has my vote already!  5 out of 5.

"HAMILTON"  PG-13    2 hours and 40 mins          2020

The real life of one of America's foremost founding fathers and first Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton. Captured live on Broadway from the Richard Rodgers Theater with the original Broadway cast.

Director:

 Thomas Kail

Writers:

 Lin-Manuel Miranda (book), Ron Chernow (inspired by the book Alexander Hamilton by) 

Stars:

 Lin-Manuel Miranda, Phillipa Soo, Leslie Odom Jr. 

Movie #1948 ........................."Anne of Green Gables" (Parts 3 and 4) DVD

Money #1948  "Anne of Green Gables" :  the Sequel" and  "The Continuing Story"  DVD -- the 1985 (Megan Fellowes) version - I had really nothing to compare to this version, so I just happily watched this to see where the character would go.  I liked the school story, but disliked the principal and had trouble believing her character because she seemed to make strange acting choice --- the same with the rich boyfriend, the competition with Gilbert.  Never warmed up to  either of them because of their acting.  I was disappointed Gilbert wasn't in this more and that it took so long to realize they were made for each other.  Anne grew on me, and because she came across as an old soul in Parts 1 and 2, I felt these parts fit her better, and I felt she got better in her acting, too. I  was esp. glad to see the teacher she so liked as a child to reappear  here and help her get her first teaching job!  The job on the newspaper was good, and I really found the guy whom she looked up to as a writer (kind of a mentor) was intriguing and complex.   The war stuff seemed unbelievable that she could travel and look for Gilbert and get caught in the trauma of war, so it came across kind of soap opera-ish.   But I realize that Sullivan is following the book at this point.  I must say the ending surprised me.  (disclaimer -- please don't read more if you haven't read the book) To be able to leave Avonlea so easily at the point she comes back, seemed to make the ending to me kind of sad.   But once again, it is probably how the book ends it, so you can't mess with that!  I would give this part 3.5 out of 5.  I am glad I got to see how this well -loved book ends.  I appreciated the scenery on Prince Edward Island and all the effort it took to film the war scenes. 

"ANNE OF GREEN GABLES :  THE SEQUEL"    3 hours and 50 minutes, 1987

Anne Shirley accepts a teaching position at a girls boarding school in a town dominated by a rich and belligerant family determined to make her life miserable.

"ANNE OF GREEN GABLES:  THE CONTINUING STORY"  3 hours & 50  mins, 2000

The continuing adventures of Anne Shirley in New York and in France during World War I.

Movie #1947 ........................."Anne of Green Gables" (the Megan Fellowes' one) DVD

Movie #1947 "Anne of Green Gables" (with Megan Fellowes)  Parts 1 and 2 .  I borrowed the DVD  from an alum so I could see the Megan Fellowes' rendition of this famous book (that I never read) to compare it to "Anne with an E"that I so raved about in an earlier blog. First big  comparison of the two is that for this one I watched her growing up in 3 hours and 19 minutes, so  I felt that the director (Sullivan) went too fast  from one event (probably from the book) to the  next----  there was very little down time just to spend time talking to the Cuthberts, making friends with her circle of friends, spending time with the townspeople, the teachers, Gilbert Blythe and her best  friend Diana and building those relationships.  In "Anne  with an E" there was so much more time to see her grow and develop into the woman that is covered in Parts 3 and 4 in the 1985 mini series.  Let's think about that -- the viewer spends 27 episodes at 50 minutes each watching Anne with an E grow, so it makes sense that we might like that little girl a little better than Meghan Fellowes.  But then fans of "Anne with an E"  are robbed from seeing her grow and develop into the woman that is shown in Parts 3 and 4 (in the 1985 version), and that is too bad.  But back to blogging on this one --- I have to say, this Anne looks older from the get go, and she approaches the character as an old soul, whereas the Anne with an E little girl comes across young and immature --- her fits of passion come through loud and at times annoying --- and that was missing in this version.   Two different ways to play the character, but I preferred the latter.  Then, if you  compare the two Marilla Cuthberts, I found them both competent --- but  Colleen Dewhurst, who has always been a favorite of mine, usually shows her complexity with a twinke in her eye --- ie. she is mean at first, but you can tell by studying her that she isn't really.  The one in the Anne with an E scared the heck out of me at first,  and it took a long, slow process to break her down.  And still she was stern on the outside far more than Colleen Dewhurst, but once again, it could be the amount of screen time  they have to play with the character.  I love Richard Farnsworth --- the steady gaze, the smile --- but that was all they asked him to bring to that character; whereas, the actor playing Matthew Cuthbert in Anne with an E was the most charming, unassuming, precious male character I've seen in a long long time.  I couldn't take my eyes off of him whenever he was in a scene with her.  Once again, amount of screen time is helpful --- Anne and he had a lot more moments shared together, esp. in the episode where Anne was writing love notes to his  old, lost love in the dress shop.  Jerry and her gay friend were missing in this version, and it took me sooooo long to warm up to Gilbert and Diana, and still I  prefer them in Anne with an E than in this version.  So overall, I still prefer "Anne with an E" the modernized version for the above reasons, and would give this 3.5 out of 5.  If I hadn't seen the other first, and hadn't spent so much time getting close to that cast, I am sure I would feel differently. But I am glad I saw this one because I have a feeling it follows the book so much more.

"ANNE OF GREEN GABLES"    1985     3 hours and 19 minutes , t.v.  miniseries

An orphan girl, sent to an elderly brother and sister by mistake, charms her new home and community with her fiery spirit and imagination.

Stars:

 Megan Follows, Colleen Dewhurst, Richard Farnsworth

Movie #1946 ........................."The Money Heist" Seasons 3 and 4 (Netflix streaming)

Movie #1946 "The Money Heist" Seasons 3/4 (netflix streaming) -- we loved the first 2 seasons and although this second heist isn't as good as the first one to us, the production values of the show are much better, the editing is whiplash great! and the characters get even more complex, some leave and some are  added, and  they don't affect the main business --- thrilling the audience with all the twists and turns  in the plot.  And you should know this ends on a cliffhanger, so we can't wait for the next season.  It's  amazing how, as an audience, we just can't  turn away from this --- well, yes, because it has subtitles that we must read, but also the rhythm of the show is amazing --- strong editing and juxtaposition of two or three scenes of simultaneous action.  We give this one a 4.5 out of 5 and highly recommend.  But it isn't for the faint of heart!

"MONEY HEIST"  EPISODES 3/4 , 16 EPISODES, ABOUT 45 MINS EACH  

In the midst of celebrating on the laurels of the first heist, one of them is captured and the group once again comes together to get that person free --- and also conduct a second heist, this one even bigger in the planning.  

creator:  Alex Pina

Cast:  Ursula Corbero, Alvaro Morte, Itziar Ituno, Pedro Alonzo, Alba Flores, Miguel Herran, 

Spanish t.v. show/thriller - mature  audiences

Movie #1945 .........................."King of Thieves" (netflix, dvd rental)

Movie #1945 "King of Thieves" (netflix, dvd rental) -- I rented this because we like heist films, and this  is based on the largest heist in British history, but it is perpetrated by a gang  of retired criminals.  It sounded funny, and it was , but just occasionally.  The acting is very competent with Michael Caine, Tom Courtenay, Ray Winstone and Jim Broadbent.  But the script could explain more, esp. when they have a new young guy with them --- while explaining to him, the audience could get some knowledge of how they are doing things.  Of course, the idea that Kenny (Courtenay),  the lookout, is very deaf so he misses a huge alarm that they didn't shut off is just one of many of the  old-timer jokes --- but when the heist isn't going on, the action is a bit slow.  I would give it 3.5 out of 5.     

"KING OF THIEVES"   1 HOUR AND 48 mins       Rated R       2019

Based on an improbable true story, this star-studded crime drama recounts the 2015 robbery of London's Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Co. -- the largest and most audacious heist in British history, perpetrated by a gang of retired criminals.

Cast 

Michael Caine, Jim Broadbent, Tom Courtenay, Charlie Cox, Michael Gambon, Ray Winstone, Francesca Annis, Paul Whitehouse, Kellie Shirley

Director 

James Marsh

Genres 

Drama, Crime Dramas, Dramas Based on Real Life, Heist Films, United Kingdom

Moods 

Suspenseful, Violent