Holiday (1938)

 The classic film Holiday takes an interesting look at life choices. A young man wants to be on "holiday" while he is young. Not everyone in his life is supportive of his decision. A charming film.

Wonder Woman 1984

 In  Wonder Woman 1984 we learn the power of Diana as she is in the year 1984. Saving the world with strength and confidence she is thrilling to watch. The story and stunts are great. It is fun to see her story play out.

Soul

 The beauty of the film Soul lies very much in the love of music. The concept of where souls exist is pretty abstract, but it is played out with a lot of sincerity. I really liked the characters and the concept. Well done.

The Apartment

A man rethinks the use of his abode in The Apartment when he meets a woman he wants to romance. There are complications, and many moments play to comedy. This film is sweet, awkward and heartfelt. 

The Bishop's Wife

 In The Bishop's Wife an angel's visit changes a couple's perspective and lives. This Christmas classic is very satisfying.

Critical Thinking

 Based on a true story, Critical Thinking is the story of an inner city high school chess team. Their journey is interesting and heartfelt. Watch the credits to see interviews with the actual students. Good film.

Pottersville

Pottersville is an off the wall small town story with a kink. Set at Christmas, this story of mistaken identity is rather entertaining. I got a chuckle out of this quirky comedy.

White Christmas

 I first saw White Christmas on late night television when I was babysitting. This romantic story suited a young teenage me. The music and banter are delightful. A holiday film I enjoy.

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Dynamic writing, performances and soundtrack make Ma Rainey's Black Bottom a solid portrayal of art, discrimination and principles. So good.

This Christmas

 In This Christmas we watch a family's holiday reunion with drama, secrets, loyalty, love and moves...so many moves. The last scene is a gift. I really liked the relationships and how they played into the reunion. Well done.

March of the Wooden Soldiers (Babes in Toyland 1934)

 I have a memory of seeing March of the Wooden Soldiers when I was young. I have no idea how I would have seen a 1934 film in the 50s or 60s, but it must have been on network TV during the holiday season. I loved it as a kid and I still like it now. The story is a little off and the villan is scary. It is slapstick and trilling at times. The story is there and the performances stand up. A bit of nostalgia.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

In Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey there is lots of creativity, lots of joy, lots of music, lots of dance. There's a lot in this movie, but it all comes down to a lot of heart. Fun Christmas watch.

Christmas on the Square

 Christmas on the Square is such a cheesy movie, but I enjoyed it for the cast. 

Tig

I had a ticket to see Tig Notaro live in PVD in 2020. It was rescheduled twice and ultimately canceled due to the pandemic. The last reschedule date was Dec. 4th so her show has been on my mind. I have seen her live before and really like her comedy. The documentary Tig, is a nice behind the scenes to her career and personal life. Such a talented performer and genuine human. As Tig likes to say, "I guess God was right, I can handle this." I'm a big fan, and I liked this documentary.

The Prom

 I love musical theater, but The Prom did not do it for me. Most of the performances were good, the story was OK, but many times it just seemed silly. I did like the music. Maybe I expected too much.

The Ward

 In The Ward a young woman is institutionalized. In time, she experiences terrors. Are the experiences real, or are they supernatural. A decent thriller.

What We Did on Our Holiday

A family drama that goes off the rails, What We Did on Our Holiday is edgy with a lot of heart, and the right amount of laughs. The kids will do anything for Granddad, and they do. I love this cast, and the ending is just right.

Mank

 An interesting look at film history, Mank covers a lot of ground. This dramatization of the writing of Citizen Kane shows an unattractive side of Hollywood and the early movie making machine. It's not all glamour. There is a constant narration in this film that is a bit much, but there is a lot of explaining to do. The film takes on a lot. 

Wildlife

Wildlife is a poignant family drama involving separation. Everyone is trying to find themselves. I found this film to be very touching. Well done.

Emma

 The 2020 film Emma is a charming interpretation of the Jane Austen classic. What a cast! The performances won me over and this film just makes me smile. Well done.

It's Always Fair Weather

 Great music, dance numbers and charm makes It's Always Fair Weather worth a look. I've never seen anyone tap dance in roller skates or trashcan lids. The editing is creative and makes this fun to watch. Great DVD rental. Watch the extras.