Youth

On vacation in the Alps, two friends on the verge of turning 80 look to each other for support.  One is a retired orchestra conductor on holiday with his daughter and the other is a film director.  The conductor receives an invitation from Queen Elizabeth to perform and refuses but reconsiders.    The film director is making a movie and things don't always go as planned.  Both begin realizing that time is no longer on their side.  This film is the last of a trilogy by Paolo Sorrentino on life.  Not a film for youth but the older generation could appreciate it.  I give it a 7.  Stars Michael Caine, Rachel Weiss and Mick Boyle.

Spotlight

Revealing a string of cover-ups stretching back decades, a team of "Boston Globe" reporters exposes the Catholic Archdiocese's history of keeping reports about child molestation and other priest-initiates abuse under wraps.  This is a very intense movie with superb acting.  I give it a 9.  Stars Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams.

Bridge of Spies

In this historical drama set during the Cold War, a Brooklyn attorney, James Donovan, is tasked with negotiating a prisoner exchange between an American pilot who was shot down over the USSR and a Soviet spy serving a 45-year sentence for espionage.  The trial of the Soviet spy should not be overlooked.  The case put forward by attorney Donovan was outstanding.  Overall the movie is outstanding and will be in the line-up for the Academy Award.  Tom Hanks performance as James Donovan is also outstanding.  I give it a 9. 

Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part 2

As the tale reaches its powerful conclusion, Katnis Everdeen-- flanked by her allies from District 12- embarks on a quest to liberate the oppressed citizens of Panem by assassinating ruthless President Snow.  The movie follows the book and does a superb job of bringing closure to this series.  I give it an eight.  Stars Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson.

Brooklyn

The story of Ellis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn.  Lured by the promise of America, Ellis departs Ireland and the comfort of her mother's home for the shores of New York City.  The initial shackles of homesickness quickly diminish as a fresh romance sweeps Ellis into the intoxicating charm of love.  But soon, her new vivacity is disrupted by her past, and Ellis must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within.  A good romantic drama.  I give it an eight.

Burnt

A funny and emotional story that sings with culinary passion.  BURNT starts Bradley Cooper as a renowned chef striving for perfection.  A two-Michelin starred chef with bad habits to match, the former enfant terrible had it all-and lost it all.  To stage a comeback and land that elusive third Michelin star, he needs an ally on his side.  Sienna Miller and Omar Sy star alongside Cooper in this highly anticipated foodie drama.  Interesting story that moves right along.  I don't believe chefs are made that good looking.  Unlike other foodie movies, I thought I would be starving by the end.  I guess presentation was great and portions minute but left me with thoughts of a Big Mac.  I give it a 7.

Suffragette

Inspired by true events,  Suffragette explores the passion and heartbreak of those who risked all they had for women's right to vote.  They risked their jobs, their homes, their children, and even their lives.  Carey Mulligan gives a moving performance as Maud, a working wife and mother who becomes an activist for the Suffragette cause alongside women from all walks of life.  Helena Bonham Carter gives an equally great performance.  Meryl  Streep has a short five minute speech but what a great five minutes.  I give it an 8.