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Hemisphere (2023)
Excellent Mystery/Thriller Movie
Not really into sci-fi that much so I was surprised by this movie. The story set-up was interesting, an investigator without a lot of information is dispatched to a remote mining outpost. I really related to her situation having been divorced and still in touch w/ my ex even after he's remarried w/ kids w/ Wife #2. This movie captured the loneliness and darkness of being 90 million miles from home, by yourself. Well, another character emerges and the two women need to work together to sort everything out. I love independent films and thought the acting and story here were very strong. I emotionally connected with both characters. If you want to see a sci-fi that is heavy on the mystery, then check this one out.
Maestro (2023)
Great Relationship between Bernstein and Wife
This movie is like a master class in acting and character relationships. It does not take the easy way out and forces characters to confront their own shortcomings and try to reconcile with those they love. I really appreciated that message. I watched not knowing a ton about Bernstein or his personal life, and was pleasantly surprised throughout. Beautifully shot and acted. Cooper and Mulligan are at the top of their game, classic movie stars who shine. Music, cinematography and sound all top-drawer. Great period costumes and set design. It's exactly what I expect from an Oscar-nominated movie. Predict this one will hold up well over time.
Cube: Ichido haittara, saigo (2021)
One of the Best Written, Acted Thrillers
I watched this movie a few nights ago and did not know anything about it. It was excellent. Solid story about 6 strangers - 3 men, 1 woman, 1 older man, 1 13-year old boy - who awake trapped inside a large cube-like space with branching doorways. Choose the wrong one, and you die. Their only hope of survival is to stick together. So intelligently written, with solid performances from all the actors. One of the best movies I've seen in the past couple years. Highly recommend if you like eerie suspense/thrillers. Director and crew are very talented. I hope it makes a ton of money in the digital universe!
Sold Out (2021)
Honest & Heartfelt Indie Music/Love Story
I really enjoyed and connected with this movie. Music Scout Kat Revere stumbles upon construction worker/folk singer/songwriter John, sees his innate talent and decides to take him under her wing. Thus begins a compelling and believable journey into the world of indie hit-making. Movie features a stand-out performance by actress Kelsey McMahon, who brings just the right amount of toughness, lovability and cool to her character. Sam Bardwell as her protege brings chemistry and warmth. The script by Susan Brightbill is tight and well-developed. No character is wasted. Has a really nice payoff at the end. Framed against the cold snows of midwestern winter. You'll definitely walk away feeling better at the end than when you started!
Coyote Cage (2023)
Excellent Story w/ Memorable Characters
Following in the footsteps of Gregory Nava's breakthrough indie film "El Norte", some 30+ years later we find "Coyote Cage", by director Michael Perez, with screenplay by Devin O'Leary. This is an excellent entry in the ongoing tale of immigrants coming to America by paying Coyotes to smuggle them across the border. Michael L. McNulty plays Guero, the good Coyote who cares, with warmth and self-deprecation. You just like the guy. The majority of other coyotes want only to exploit those seeking a better life by inflating the cost. This movie boasts excellent performances by its cast, which includes Carlos Enrique Almirante who delivers one of the most sinister bad guys I've seen in years. The story is well-focused with nice pacing. Technical aspects are very good, with strong, evocative cinematography and a thoughtful soundtrack. You will find yourself rooting for the good guys to make it through their perilous journey. Definitely worth watching!
AIMEE: The Visitor (2023)
Intriguing Idea and Flawed Characters
The movie touches on the drawbacks of AI as the main character who is a hacker by trade becomes drawn to one. He is a shut-in and spends all his time indoors playing video games. A handsome enough guy - and attracts/gets involved with a female friend who does work for him part time. Aimee is the AI who gradually infiltrates his life and begins to turn things upside-down. Ultimately, human ingenuity needs to trump technical know-how in order for the characters to survive. I appreciated that the main character was flawed and kind of a douche. He is not a victim; he brought it onto himself. The movie has a retro visual style reminiscent of the Troma movies of the 1980's. A fun movie for a Friday or Saturday night w/ friends.