NEW
MOUNTAINHEAD
New on Max and HBO: Clever and well cast, but also cruel, with shallow characters
BALLERINA
New in Global Theaters: OK performances, but the formula feels a bit stale
THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME
New in Global Theaters: This one I liked because it is funnier than most of Wes Anderson’s latest output and because of the evolving relationship between father and daughter
RECENT
BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE
The two leads are entertaining, and there are attempts to reconnect with past films in the franchise, but it’s never funny or thrilling enough
MADAME WEB
Often frustrating, with a lead whose confusing powers are less than thrilling
BABYGIRL
A good cast; the best thing about the film is Nicole Kidman’s performance as a woman who needs to be dominated
OLDER
THE TASTE OF THINGS (2023)
Inspired by a 1920s novel by Marcel Rouff, Tran Anh Hùng crafted a film that is a delight to all senses
THE FOUR SEASONS (1981)
Characters may come across as grating, but it’s a good cast, the dialogue is funny and Vivaldi has a natural place in it
GRAN TURISMO (2023)
Thrilling race scenes, and the two leads are good as wide-eyed student and gruff mentor
LONGER REVIEWS
FREAKS (1932)
Tod Browning’s own past in vaudeville is probably one reason why the film also comes across as heartfelt
BABY REINDEER
A compelling watch, with rich doses of humor sprinkled throughout; we are meant to laugh, and feel great discomfort
THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIE (1972)
Authentically Buñuel, rich, funny and fascinating, but also perhaps more accessible than others