NEW
NONNAS
New on Netflix: Formulaic and stereotypical, but cast and direction make a difference, including Vince Vaughn in the lead
UNANIMAL
New in Swedish Theaters: Thought-provoking on a minor level, but we understand the point early on, and Isabella Rossellini’s narration doesn’t add much
THUNDERBOLTS*
New in Global Theaters: The story addresses the devastating effects of depression; a surprising, risky choice, but the film doesn’t turn into a drag, softening the impact with laughs and lots of action
RECENT
COMPANION
Presenting a probable future scenario, with misogynistic aspects, the film takes a sharp Westworld approach to dating
PADDINGTON IN PERU
Shades of Herzog in this jungle adventure with amiable enough ingredients, even if the slapstick is on the weak side
DEN OF THIEVES: PANTERA
The action and exotic locations compensate for a weaker script
OLDER
A WALK IN THE SUN (1945)
An ambitious film to some degree, but the emotional and pretentious dialogue is an obstacle
WOMAN OF THE HOUR (2023)
Chilling at times, with a good cast
BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER (2023)
Breezy and silly; Giancarlo Giannini is a good foil for Candice Bergen
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