Capernaum

Nominated for an Oscar, the film Capernaum is a heartbreaking story. A young boy in a very large family in Lebanon is disgusted with his parents and their disregard for the well-being of their children. The examples of poor parenting are many and he ultimately runs away. When taken in by a kind woman he becomes the unwitting caretaker of her baby when she disappears. The scenes with the boy and baby are riveting and scary. This film is tough to watch, but a testimony to the heart of the young boy under horrible circumstances. Excellent film.

The Bobadook

I don't usually watch horror movies because I don't really appreciate the genre. This week a lot of buzz went up around The Babadook so I went on a mission to find it in a local theater. The Coolidge Corner Theater has a small screening room with 14 seats which they showed this in. I sat up close and personal with the creepy character and frightening story. Crafted well enough that, walking back to my car in broad daylight, I was suspicious of every noise I heard behind me. Well done.

The Grand Budapest Hotel

Wes Anderson makes visually sumptuous films. The Grand Budapest Hotel is a wonderful addition to his catalogue. Aside from being very pretty, it is a romance, a heist, a chase and a prison break film. Ralph Fiennes is a compelling lead and carries this film nicely. The humor worked on me. The cast is stellar and cameos delightful. I look forward to seeing this film again. Utterly charming.

Bernie

Bernie is a golden-tonged opportunist. When it works for him all is well. When it doesn't, he snaps and his world unravels. Based on a true story, this was an interesting film.

Moonrise Kingdom

Moonrise Kingdom is the most charming film I've seen this year. In Wes Anderson's familiar pallet, we see two young people search for love, maturity and acceptance. An outstanding cast and familiar RI locations made this film a home run for me.