Russell Crowe has long been one of film’s most reliable actors. His work has earned him the reputation for giving strong and steady performances. This has allowed him to dabble in a number of different movie types and genres. But the 51-year old Oscar-winning Australian has watched his career truly flourish in period pieces covering … Continue reading
There is such a thing as shamelessly milking a profitable idea for all its worth. There is also such a thing as a guilty pleasure. These two ideas collided for me in “Minions”. Maybe I’m being a bit unfair. Perhaps these mischievous yellow pills haven’t reached the point of being “shamelessly milked”. But there is … Continue reading
After a couple of shaky early installments the “Mission Impossible” franchise seems to have found its stride. Personally I’ve never considered any of the films bad, but a couple definitely showed a dip in quality. But 2011’s “Ghost Protocol” gave the series a new and stable identity. It was an action-packed blockbuster anchored by an … Continue reading
With the buzz for Star Wars growing as the new film approaches, I thought it would be cool to sprinkle in a few Star Wars related Phenomenal 5 lists leading into “The Force Awakens”. To start it off I wanted to look at one of the more unique things about the franchise – lightsaber duels. … Continue reading
“The Bicycle Thief” came out during a difficult time of recovery and transition. It was November of 1948 and World War 2 was over. Italy was in political and economic turmoil. It was this setting that inspired the filmmakers of Italian neo-realism. Director Vittorio De Sica was first known as an actor but began directing … Continue reading
These days good comedies are a rarity which makes finding one all the more special. The genre’s landscape is overloaded with obnoxious raunchy comedies and shallow Sandler-esque toilet humor. If you aren’t a fan of those two brands finding an enjoyable modern comedy may be a chore. But “What We Do in the Shadows” is … Continue reading
