The End We Start From (2023)

 

An interesting semi-post-apocalyptic premise that had some nice narrative flourishes. But like the city, the story got bogged down, with very little happening. I appreciate good dialogue and characters, but stuff needs to actually happen. It’s a shame they didn’t do more with it. 

Rating: C-

Phantom Thread (2017)

This didn’t feel like a Paul Thomas Anderson film to me. Sure, the film hinges on the dramatic performances of its actors. Almost to a fault in this case. There isn’t much of a plot in the traditional sense. More like very specific characters interacting with one another. It oft feels depressing, and a little dark. It’s mood heavy. Not a film you would ever crave to see again, but you won’t regret seeing it either.

Rating: C

Croupier (1998)

Tells the story of a writer/roulette dealer in a seedy London casino who has a few ups and downs through the course of his job.

Rating: C

In The Loop (2009)

Foul-mouthed fun. I'm sure I only caught half the jokes, as dialogue is delivered rapid-fire; auction style. And it's the dialogue that matters here. The movie centers around US and UK politicians linguistically lambasting each other, often with four letter words—the kind your grandma doesn't use. If you have sensitive ears, insert ear plugs and leave town now.

Rating: C+

MirrorMask (2005)

A strange and beautiful movie not unlike The Wizard of Oz and The Neverending Story. If you are in the mood for something outside the box, this deserves a viewing.

Rating: C+