Much Ado About Nothing

Shakespearean prose has it's own lilt and life. Translated to film, set in modern times, Much Ado About Nothing is such a treat. A film that works so well in black & white, this piece is gorgeous. Do yourself a favor and see this gem on a big screen. Loved it!

Monsters University

I think Monsters, Inc. is a perfect film. Beautifully animated, clever premise, big heart. I was skeptical of a prequel, but was pleasantly surprised with Monsters University. From the monsters' elementary school days to college, we see where friendships began and where some end. In true Pixar fashion, the animation is gorgeous. The new characters are great and it's nice to see the old pals. The messages in this film work well without being preachy. The transition into Monsters, Inc. is smooth. Fun film that is a wonderful addition to Pixar's rich history. Well done.

This Is the End

When a group of young actors are faced with the end of the world, it gets funny, it gets freaky, it gets raunchy. The actors all play themselves. From the brains of Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg, This Is the End takes us on a crazy ride into the rapture. Faced with crisis, human nature shows its ugly side and the result is hilarious. Did I mention the demons? Fantastic cameos are the icing on the cake. Fun summer movie.

Man of Steel

I like Superman. We have been offered many origin stories for this popular character and Man of Steel is a nice addition to the tradition. A lot of time is spent on Kal-El's story and the demise of Krypton. Clark Kent is seen in his pre-Daily Planet days, trying to find himself and adjust to his powers. Lois Lane is given more to do than in previous films. There is a darker tone here. The battle scenes were a bit over-done, but that's super-hero movies for ya. Interested to see where they go with this series. Well done.

Now You See Me

I have long been a fan of magic and illusion. As a kid I practiced card tricks and learned slight of hand. I saw Doug Henning live and spent an amazing evening at the Magic Castle in Los Angeles. In the movie Now You See Me the dedication and time that it takes to create an illusion is shown. In this case there is a crime and a mysterious goal. Thought the illusions were a lot of movie magic, I still found it entertaining.

Big Easy Express

The joy of music is gloriously depicted in the documentary Big Easy Express. Mumford & Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes board a train and take their music from San Francisco to New Orleans. The music they play for each other on the train, is as good as the actual  performances. My favorite was The Austin High School marching band playing with Mumford & Sons at SXSW. The energy in those kids was electric. Be sure to watch the deleted scenes on the DVD. The performances are stunning.

What Maisie Knew

Two of the worst movie parents put their child at risk in What Maisie Knew. The reality of what happens to a child when neither parent has the child's best interest at heart is painful and a bit disturbing. This film has a lot of heart and scared the heck out of me more than once. Take care of your children folks.