Felix and Meira

After their lives intersect at a Montreal pizzeria, a stifled young Hasidic wife and an atheist grappling with his father's demise embark on a tentative romance that must bridge their two disparate worlds.  Culture does get in the way because the Hasidic husband loves his wife but can't express it.  I am not sure that the atheist lover really loves her.  The movie is not only very good but will tear at your heart strings.  Did I mention that the Hasidic wife has an adorable baby.  I give it a 6.  Stars Martin Dubreuil; Hadas Yaron; Luzen Twersky.

Pitch Perfect 2

I liked the first one and thought it was cute but this one blew my socks away.  Hoping to be the first American group ever to win a prestigious international a Capella competition, The Barden Bellas return in this song-filled sequel and come up against a rival group of European singers who are determined to win.  For once the critics were correct in rating this B+ entertainment.  Fat Amy has become my favorite.  Thoroughly entertaining and worth of a trip to the theater.  I give it an 8.  Stars Anna Kendrick; Rebel Wilson; Brittany Snow.

5 Flights Up

Married for four decades, New Yorkers Ruth and Alex have had a wonderful life together--most of it spent in their cherished Brooklyn walk-up.  But now that it's time to sell, the universe seems determined to thwart them.  Very entertaining movie and the 50 plus generation will love it because it hits a sensitive subject.  I give it a 7.  Stars Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton.

 

Far From The Madding Crowd

This is a period drama based on Thomas Hardy's  classic novel.  Winsome Bathsheba Everdene wins the hearts of three disparate men:  sheep farmer Gabriel Oak, dashing soldier Frank Troy and William Boldwood, a moneyed older man.  Definitely a period piece that can drag at times.  Don't expect racy bedroom scenes, cursing  or violence because there is none of that.  I give it a six.  Stars:  Juno Temple, Michael Sheen, Cary Mulligan.

Clouds of Sils Maria

Twenty years after her break through role as a young woman who beguiles and ultimately destroys her mentor, Maria Enders is invited - in an ironic twist to play the  part of the older woman in a stage production of the same drama.  As the older woman she faces a new young actress that plays her old role.  Lots of twists and turns but worth it.  I give it an eight.  Stars Juliette Binoche, Kristen Stewart, Chloe Grace Moretz.