Sep 8 2017

IT

A strange cyclical event appears to be taking place in the remote Maine town known as Derry Disappearances and deaths seem to be off the charts, especially for children. So, when a band of bullied friends begin seeing strange nightmarish scenes and their greatest fears are materialized, something is definitely afoot. Now it’s up to Bill, Ben, Beverly, Richie,
Mike, and Stanley (Jaeden Lieberher, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Chosen Jacobs, amd Jack Dylan Grazer) to put an end to “It.” But, what if they’re already too late? Based on the Novel by Stephen King and Directed by Andy Muschietti this recounting of events adapted to take place in the late 80’s does manage to keep the significant plot points in tact; however, failure in the art department makes for a dizzying mixup of decades when it comes to clothing, hair, and bicycles, not small features. But, feathered bowlcuts and banana seats aside, this ensemble stands strong and proud as Pennywise The Dancing Clown (Bill SkarsgÃ¥rd) terrorizes the screen and even more blood spatters the walls. Not exactly the most frightening thing audiences will see this year in terms of quality horror, but slick production value overall does raise the grade a degree. Also, a mild complaint in run time, 135 minutes gets windy considering this is only Chapter 1. Still for all of its faults, It still has the “it factor” to remain a hit! It is rated R.


Sep 8 2017

Crown Heights

As a young man Colin Warner (Lakeith Stanfield) is wrongfully convicted and imprisoned for murder in a troubled Brooklyn neighborhood. Nearly broken by the system Colin’s life is taken away for over 20 years; meanwhile, best friend Anthony (Luke Forbes) commits his own energies to freeing Colin, a Sysiphean tale if there ever was one. Will the system ever be brought to justice and will Colin ever find his freedom? Written and Directed by Matt Ruskin, this procedural story based on true events works as a relevant conversation piece to the current discussions on racial inequalities in the U.S.. Slow and sparse in its delivery this grinding 94 minutes hammers home a solemn tone to keep audiences engaged enough to watch and follow this slow burning tire fire from start to finish. Furthermore, a knock out performance from Stanfield and quality effort from Forbes both work to keep the nose up on this film to deliver the goods without overstaying their welcome. Worthwhile for the historical and educational impacts alone, Crown Heights is rated R.