Full disclosure: Despite really liking Zachary Levi and Mark Strong, I wasn’t as smitten with 2019’s “Shazam!” as many seemed to be. It had its moments. But it was a little too silly, and I wasn’t sure how the more comedic superhero movie was going to fit in with the rest of the DCEU. As … Continue reading
REVIEW: “Four Samosas” (2022)
Part heist movie and part romantic comedy, “Four Samosas” is a low-budget screwball romp in the spirit of early Wes Anderson but with a sneakily infectious personality all its own. It all flows from writer-director Ravi Kapoor who infuses this whimsically toned indie with all sorts of narrative and visual quirks. Better yet, the often … Continue reading
REVIEW: “Maybe I Do” (2023)
For some it might come as a surprise, but romantic comedies aren’t just limited to sexy, super attractive young couples. I mean just because people reach a certain age doesn’t mean their relationships lose their richness or are any less complicated. With that being true, there are all kinds of senior stories to tell and … Continue reading
REVIEW: “American Murderer” (2022)
For fans of true crime, writer-director Matthew Gentile’s feature film debut “American Murderer” makes for a sturdy genre entry. It’s a crime thriller based on the true story of Jason Derek Brown, a crafty and charismatic conman who became one of the most wanted fugitives in the United States. In 2007 he was placed on … Continue reading
Random Thoughts: The 2023 Oscar Nominations
Over the years the annual Academy Awards nominations have become easier to predict. Perhaps its social media or maybe its their growing lean towards trendier picks. But we usually have a good grasp of where the Academy is going prior to announcement day. Yet they always manage to pack in a surprise or two, and … Continue reading
REVIEW: “Waltair Veerayya” (2023)
There’s a lot to like about the new Teluga-language action-comedy “Waltair Veerayya”. Directed by Bobby Kolli, the movie takes some big swings and has an even bigger vision. There are bursts of good action, several compelling characters, and a spare laugh or two. And it leans heavy on its big star, Chiranjeevi, giving plenty of … Continue reading