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On the cusp of folk greatness in the early 60’s musician Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) lost his only bandmate. Now wandering his way through the Greenwich Village folk scene the trials and tribulations of a homeless troubadour have become commonplace for Llewyn. It’s in this wandering he will meet a washed up jazz artist (John Goodman), a temporary lover, Jean (Carey Mulligan), fellow musicians Jim and Al (Justin Timberlake and Adam Driver), and a supportive fan base in Mitch and Lillian (Ethan Phillips, Robin Bartlett). All the while, the struggle within rages, to set out to sea, literally, or stick it out and keep aiming for the big time. And what of this orange tabby cat? Honesty to a fault, Writer/Directors Joel and Ethan Coen continue their close up examination of the common man, all the while continuing their unique integration of music to film– this time with what appears to be a genuine love for the folk scene of the 1960’s. Offbeat enough to bring heartfelt laughter and masterfully crafted cringeworthy moments that are rich with subtext, the entire ensemble brings their “A” game to the party. Couple a winning screenplay with dynamic actors; then, add in great music and you’ve got the makings for another Coen Classic. Totally worth your attention, Inside Llewyn Davis is rated R.

Small time con man Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and his mistress and partner in crime Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) made quite a racket shaking down the lowest of the low until FBI agent Richie DiMaso (Bradley Cooper) caught them in a misstep. Looking to save their own necks Irving and Sydney agree to assist the feds, a move that could incriminate Mayor Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner) and mafia head Victor Tellegio (Robert De Niro). Meanwhile Irving’s wife, Rosalyn (Jennifer Lawrence), is dancing with dangerous acquaintances. But family takes care of family and the term “thick as thieves” rings true, how can this hustle shakedown for all?Still mining precious ore Director and co-writer David O. Russell continues to pull in gold with one of the sharpest ensemble pieces of the year; there isn’t a weak performance in the bunch. With a reverse casting of all of the leads, acting depth and breadth is certainly something to consider across the board. Plus, with a compelling story/screenplay the sleaze and skeeze of the 70’s never felt so wrong and yet so right. This is another gem slowly being tumbled to bring out the best shine possible, totally worth your time. American Hustle is rated R.