Playing By Heart (1998)

 

Separate relationship stories eventually weave together in a celebration of love. Some work better than others. Angelina Jolie shines. I miss Sean Connery. Weird seeing Jon Stewart acting. 

Rating: C+

Interstellar (2014)

A thought provoking science fiction film that dares to go beyond what science tells us we are capable of presuming. Some incredible twists were thrown in at the end which may have been a bit much. Solidly crafted up to that point though.

Rating: C+

The Fountain (2006)

I'm a huge Darren Aronofsky fan, based in large part on the brilliant film Requiem For A Dream. The Fountain is literally in another universe from his other work, one that requires the viewer to clear his mind of all questions and doubts before going in. I was willing to make this sacrifice, and the film had me mesmerized from start to finish.

No, I don't pretend to completely understand it. I'm not 100% sure anyone does. But the visuals and performances ensnare your eyes and refuse to let go until the credits roll. Darren is a true master behind the camera. You'll keep asking yourself as you watch—How does someone come up with this? And then—How did he film it?

Rating: B+

The Yards (2000)

A lot of big names in this one, although it didn't make a big splash at the box office. Acting was good, story held my attention, and suspense was satisfactory.

Rating: C

Requiem For A Dream (2000)

Screw D.A.R.E.
Screw "Say no to Drugs"
Screw "This is your brain on drugs"
Round up all the elementary school kids. Sit their asses down in the auditorium, and play this movie on a big screen. By the time the credits roll, every kid in the place will have tears streaming down their little faces in terror, and they will NEVER do drugs.

Darren Aronofsky, the brilliant director of the movie "Pi" , delves into full color film-making with one hell of a ride down junkie lane. He has such a talent for creating dramatic images on screen. So many techniques are used, which when put together, form his unique style. The acting was fantastic, and Oscars should be handed out all around. Is it a fun movie to watch? Kind of. Is it worth watching? YES! An absolutely brilliant film.

Rating: A