The Shape Of Water (2017)

Benicio Del Toro continues to make fascinating films. This reminded me of a cross between E.T. and a reverse Splash. Maybe a bit of Cocoon thrown in. Anyway, I liked it. An authentic and literal fish out of water love story.

Rating: B

Arrival (2016)

Arrival reminded me of the Jodi Foster movie Contact. Both were full of drama, emotion, and a confusing plot. Ultimately nothing very exciting happened. Certainly one of the most over-hyped films of the year.

Rating: C-

Steve Jobs (2015)

Not the Steve Jobs film I thought I’d be seeing. It was almost a theatrical play, mainly taking place at product launches, revolving around a few key players. Sorkin dialogue is rampant, as one would expect. Jeff Daniels reprising his The Newsroom role drove the point home. Acting is sharp. Nominations likely deserved. Screenplay is noteworthy too. That’s about as far as I’m willing to go.

Rating: C+

A Serious Man (2009)

Fantastic job depicting 1967 as well as daily Jewish life. Quite compelling despite there not being a riveting plot. Uncertain as to the point of the film. The ending didn't do me any favors either. I need a bit more resolution to walk away from this amicably.

Rating: C

Body Of Lies (2008)

A Syrianna-esque action/thriller that can be quite brutal at times. Involving the Jordanian Intelligence Agency was a good story device. DiCaprio is believable as a CIA operative. Locations and cinematography are what you'd expect from a Ridley Scott Film.

Rating: B-

Seven Psychopaths (2012)

Kind of a convoluted mess. The plot felt like it was put together with Scotch tape and twine.

Rating: D+

Men In Black 3 (2012)

It’s almost always a mistake to work time travel into your movie plot. It’s rarely done right. I didn’t enjoy this third installment nearly as much as I remember enjoying the first two. The whole thing felt like rewarmed leftovers. A few cute moments here and there, but overall very bland.

 Rating: C-

Hugo (2011)

A slow, beautifully shot story that differs from the one the previews are selling. Mostly because the real story isn’t great movie trailer material. Hugo is a real labor of love from Scorsese and other film preservationist collogues of his. Johnny Depp produced. Terrific performances from Chloe, the kid playing Hugo, and Kingsly. Slow, but deep. Enjoyed it. The 3D was unnecessary though.

Rating: C+