Thursday, July 30, 2015

Mr. Holmes



Long retired to a country farmhouse, 93-year-old Sherlock Holmes tends to his bees and reflects on his remarkable career.  But the legendary sleuth, whose mental powers are fading, remains haunted by the unsolved case that caused him to call it quits.  The movie is enchanting, especially the young son of the housekeeper.  Little Roger carries the movie.  The movie is well done with humor and mystery.  I give it an eight.  Stars Ian McKellen, Laura Linney, Miko Parker.

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

  


Cruising through his senior year, high school student  Greg Gaines spends his free time making parody versions of famous films with his pal Earl.  But when Greg's mother asks him to befriend Rachel, a leukemia patient, his blithe outlook begins to change. This movie tugs at your heart strings.  It is funny, compassionate and so true.  All actors put on outstanding performances.  I give it a 9.  Stars Thomas Mann, R J Cyler, Molly Shannon.

Monday, July 13, 2015

Infinitely Polar Bear



When his wife head to New York City for 18 months to get her MBA, bi-polar Harvard dropout Cameron is left to care for their two daughters.  Struggling with his illness, Cameron brings his innate creativity and love to his children and meets the challenges head-on.  The acting is superb both dad and the kids.  I give it an 8.  Stars Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

Spy



Unassuming CIA analyst Susan Cooper is far from being a James Bond type, but when she's thrust into the field to investigate the death of her partner and the whereabouts of a nuclear bomb, she turns into an improbable super spy.  The movie wins as the best comedy and action flick of the year so far.  I might have to watch it again to get all the lines I missed while laughing.  Don't get me wrong, it was not slap stick but very well done.  Susan Cooper's friend and fellow CIA analyst is no other but Chumly from Get the Mid Wives fame.  With a brand new "do" and make over, she is also a great comedian.  Put this on your list.  I give it a 9.  Stars:  Melissa McCarthy, Jason Statham, Rose Byrne, Jude Law.