Jun 30 2017

The Beguiled

A wounded Union soldier (Collin Farrell) is taken in and nursed back to health at an all girls’ school in Virginia during the Civil War. Sheltered from the outside world the once managed house is now taken over with sexual tension, rivalries, and unexpected events as the the girls all vie for the soldier’s attention. Just how far will things go? Directed by Sofia Coppola and based on the novel by Thomas Cullinan, this dramatic war time thriller works as a slow burn as each character, male and female, moves their pieces into place like a game of Chinese checkers, calculating and carefully eyeing up the competition. Cinematically beautiful and composed shot composition throughout allows for an atmospheric richness and art direction with aesthetic that seems to follow Coppola in all of her films. Additionally, the well acted ensemble including Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, and Elle Fanning, brings plenty to the table and makes for several gasp out loud moments, totally worth your while, The Beguiled is rated R.


Jun 30 2017

Band Aid

On the brink of a total relationship failure and collapse Anna and Ben (Zoe Lister-Jones and Adam Pally) decide to work out all of their arguments and fights in song form. One song at a time the couple seems to be working through their issues, but one larger issue just under the surface continues to haunt them. Coming to terms with their pain will not be easy, will the couple survive? Written, Directed and Starred in by Zoe Lister-Jones this humorous and appropriately cringe worthy examination of one couple’s coping skills or lack there of brings focus to both comedy woven with tragedy in a heartfelt way, and bonus, the music written for this 91 minute romp into dysfunction is equally endearing and actually pretty good. Earthy in its overall feel the soul of Band Aid does exactly what it sets out to do, win the audience’s heart with that special je ne sais quoi that can only come from a true passion project. Worthy of your attention in matinee or rental form, Band Aid brings the smiles.


Jun 30 2017

I, Daniel Blake

Having suffered a heart-attack at age 59, widowed Daniel Blake (David Johns) sets his sights on fighting the system in order to receive Employment and Support Allowance. Trouble is, the bureaucracy of the English Government is unrelenting just the same, winning his case will take everything he’s got; meanwhile, Daniel’s generosity knows no bounds as he strains to help single mother of one, Katie (Hayley Squires). Is there no mercy for the common man? Directed by Ken Loach and Written by Paul Laverty, this eloquent heartbreak captures the essence of the classic struggles of man against man, man against the universe, and man against himself, all working on various elements of ethos, logos, and pathos. That is to say, this well thought out and crafted film reaches to surprising deep places on it’s streamlined budget and efficient storytelling. Most certainly not an uplifting film by any means, however, if you’re looking for strength in acting and bang for buck, look no further, I, Daniel Blake will move you. Rated R.