Birdman

Michael Keaton delivers a great performance in this dark comedy about a cinematic superhero trying to forge a come back with a Broadway play with none of the super-powers of his former character.  Former Birdman struggles to rebuild his career and life with some light moments but many dark ones.  I give it a 7.  Stars Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, Edward Norton.

St. Vincent

With his parents preoccupied with their divorce, lonely 12-year-old Oliver strikes up a friendship with his war-veteran neighbor Vincent.  Vincent is a hard-drinking gambler with a fondness for hookers.  Vincent finds his life changed by the boy's presence.  A touching story with enough comedy to keep one interested.  The Tuesday hooker is pregnant which is a comedy in itself.  I give it a 7+.  Stars Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts.

Pride

An unlikely alliance, striking British mine workers draw support from a coalition of gay and lesbian activists who solicit donations to help tide over the miners' families during the 1984 stand off with Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's government.  The movie is not only a true story but just plain fun and well done.  I smiled for the rest of the day.  I give it an 8 so don't miss it.  Stars Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West.

Gone Girl

Based on Gillian Flynn's novel of the same name, this unsettling thriller follows the mercurial Nick Dunne, who finds himself dogged by police and caught in media maelstrom after he becomes the prime suspect in his wife's disappearance.  I can't say much more or I would give it away.  I am not a big thriller fan but I have to respect how good this one is.  I am still having nightmares.  I give it an 8.  Stars Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike.

This Is Where I Leave You

In accordance with the Jewish custom, four siblings gather to sit Shiva after their father's death but are soon bickering and renewing old grudges.  Brought together for the first time in years, the quarrelsome brood is in for a week long emotional duel.  Somewhere between a comedy and drama, it is very entertaining.  Don't believe the critics.  I give it a 6.  Stars Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, Jane Fonda.

Tracks

Mia Wasikowska portrays the adventurer Robyn Davidson, who crossed the Australian dessert alone- on foot- in 1977  with three camels.  Drawn from Davidson's memoir, this drama depicts her arduous journey and explores her reasons for undertaking it.  Unbelievable film  that I highly recommend   I give it a 7+.  Stars Mia Wasikowska and Adam Driver.