Escape from Alcatraz: low-key and efficient, this film contains all the usual elements of a story of this genre, as well as some of its problems. The gallery of characters contains the usual suspects; however, there is little if any development of them. Familiarity is not a major problem, but the inability to connect to any of the characters is (they are unpleasant and uninteresting). The images are a bit too dark sometimes and, while that makes sense in the […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama

Hamlet: there isn’t any need to spend time writing about Shakespeare’s play; nevertheless, I will. A wonderful, sorrowful tale that is both grand and intimate; its rich characters cover a wide spectrum of human nature and interact quite beautifully; most famously, however, the speeches and lines are pure poetry, a pleasure to listen to (even if their meaning is not completely grasped at times). The cast is, of course, a crucial element (perhaps here more than most times, as a […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama

Brute Force: strong drama, earnest and convincing that the characters belong in the setting. The good writing, with a story that sounds possible and has something to say, however, doesn’t extend to allow the central characters to have an arch. The acting is solid: both Burt Lancaster (not using his usual charming presence) and Hume Cronyn are standouts. Visually, the film certainly has many interesting moments in well-composed shots. This film is a grim experience, but a good one.

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama

The Spectacular Now: while not a wholly original story or set of characters, the touching plot moves ahead so organically, so enthrallingly, that the familiarity is not a problem at all. Topping the strong writing is the phenomenal acting of the central pair, Miles Teller and, in particular, Shailene Woodley; both are earnest, rich, human performances. James Ponsoldt chose to let many crucial scenes slowly breathe; visually, that means those scenes unfurl in a single shot. They are not showy […]

Categories: Film reviews • Tags: drama