I Swear (2025)

 

How effing stupid is this kid’s family, coaches, and school faculty? It’s painfully obvious he’s not behaving normally, and yet they either pretend nothing is wrong or tell him to stop doing something that is clearly out of his control. It doesn’t matter if they’ve never encountered the condition. Something is wrong and they all behave like assholes. It was infuriating to watch, and honestly didn’t seem credible as a plot device. 

Even after he’s diagnosed, the people around him don’t make necessary accommodations to insulate him from hardship and pain. The film is one depressing scene after another. I gave up before reaching the midway point. 

Rating: N/A

Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

Hugh Grant played a great dirty bastard of a boss. I read the book while in Europe and loved it. The movie wasn't as good, but did a decent job.

Rating: C

Okja (2017)

I’m glad they figured out a way to make this film, and in such a bizarre way. The message from the storytelling was as impactful as Forks Over Knives or Food Inc. A good reminder for those of us trying in some way to make the world a better place.

Rating: B+

Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004)

Not nearly as enjoyable as the first, especially with having to overcome my incredible distaste of Rene Zellicker. Hugh Grant is the best part of the film--again. I love it when he plays scoundrels, which is really him just playing himself.

Rating: C

The Claim (2000)

Solid cast; especially Wes Bentley and Sarah Polley. The story was a good one. The film is set in the old west, surrounding a mining town, the railroad, and gold. Everything looked authentic and well executed.

Rating: B-

Intermission (2003)

A strange Irish indie with thick characters talking in thick Irish accents. I had to turn the subtitles on after 5 minutes after realizing I could barely understand anything being said. One of those movies where all the character paths seem to cross and meet up by the end. Some nice, dark humor keeps things interesting.

Rating: C

Meek’s Cutoff (2010)

Incredibly slow moving. Like watching prairie grass grow. Wagons roll through the same Utah landscape for days. People rarely talk. An Indian shows up. Credits roll. How did this thing get funded? If you can make it through the entire film without fast forwarding, having an energy drink, or falling asleep, you deserve a medal.

Rating: F