Movie Reviews By Robert Waldman
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Updated: December 2, 2024
Balestra Before Dawn Between The Temples Clear Cut Close to You Conclave Goodrich Happy Campers Justice Kneecap Lee Running on Empty Strange Darling The Front Room The Mob Woman of the Hour Whistler Film Festival
Diving into the Darkness Documentaries: Skategoat and Resident Orca Kneecap Housewife of the Year The Legend in Me To see my reviews of some great older movies please visit and subscribe to my YouTube Channel. And maybe give a thumbs up if you like the review. Many more reviews to come soon. So stay tuned and be safe. |
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Documentaries: Skategoat and Resident Orca - Whistler Film Festival(PG) * * * * *
Ready or not the 2024 Whistler Festival is at hand. Full of first class movies that often don't get broad releases two dramas stand out. Skategoat looks at the most unconventional of athletes and Resident orca follows the tale of a captive whale. Both are must see movies and well worth the drive to this winter wonderland.
Skategoat looks at the unbelievable life of skateboard champion Leandre Sanders. While just a teen director Van Alpert " armed" this slum boy with an old iPhone and other rudimentary camera devices with the intent of getting him to film his athletic prowess on a skateboard. Little did both men know that this cocky kid from the wrong side of the tracks would become a world champion. Candid interviews and superb footage show how this uneducated boy from a broken home would take the skate board world by storm.
On a somewhat different track but equally emotional is the heartbroken tale spun In Resident Orca. With connections to the Pacific North West this tale follows the sad plight of Lolita, an Orca abducted in the Salish Sea by some unscrupulous mariners and sent to a sea world like attraction in Miami. Here we see the dedicated attempts of two women with the First Nations Lummi Nation in Washington State who go out to rescue a captive mammal whose days are dwindling. How their efforts turn out will have you pulling for Lolita all the way.
Showtimes:
Skateboard. Friday Dec 6. 8:00 PM. Maury Young Arts Centre. Whistler
Resident Orca Friday Dec 6. 4:45 PM. Rainbow Theatre. Whistler
For tickets please go to Whistlerfilmfestival.com or call 1-877-838-3456
Housewife of the Year - Whistler Film Festival(PG) * * * * *
Model Mom!
How fortunate we are to have film festivals in B.C. Once again the world's most famous ski resort has assembled a spectacular array of films. Like the beauty of this all season resort this year's film festival brings some amazing films to local audiences and visitors. One must see film is Housewife of the Year. This Irish gem must be seen to believed. Check it out Friday Dec 6 at 12:00 PM High Noon at the Village 8 Cinemas Theatre 7.
Documentaries come in all shapes and sizes. Just like the title suggests Housewife of the Year is a recollection of a contest that seemingly gripped the nation for many years. Television like film is certainly engaging. Somehow someone came up with the brilliant (?) idea of holding a contest to crown the Emerald Isle's top housewife.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Yet after watching this movie you can't help but shake your head as to how these women went about their lives - often under the watchful eye of the ever prying and pervasive Church. You have to remember that back in those days The Catholic Church had a grip on Irish society. And the women who appeared on this show clearly followed the tradition of the church where women were urged to stay home and raise children while men went to work. My have times changed.
Now we get to see women who appeared on this highly rated TV show back then and now comment on the whole experience. And it's an Eye-opener. Candid, effective, genuine, folksy, interesting, sincere and above all else entertaining Housewife of the Year is a time capsule of life in Ireland in the not too distant past that truly explores the role of women in society. It's not to be missed.
For tickets to the Whistler Film Festival go to Whistlerfilmfestival.com or call toll free 1-877-838-3456.
Kneecap - Whistler Film Festival(PG) * * * *
Rogue Warrior!
Hollywood for years has been accused of doing nothing new. So studios have art divisions in hopes of finding new original material.Leave it to Sony Pictures Classics to scour the earth and come up with Kneecap, a jarring thought-provoking Irish shot movie that shines a new light on that part of the world. Presented in British Columbia by Mongrel media this movie is bound to set of a stir - in a nice kind of way. Sure to be a big highlight of this years Whistler Film Festival check it out on Friday Dec 6 at the Village 8 Theatre 2 at 7:45 pm.
For years Ireland has been producing good movies with Irish themes to them. Those themes resonated with global audiences since their thoughts can be embraced universally. Ever since the 1980s the Emerald Isle has produced some great movies. To this list must now be added Kneecap.
Smartly set over the years in Belfast its themes can't be denied. Especially with the long lasting tradition of English French friction in Canada seemingly at odds since Confederation. Naturally in Northern Ireland the struggle is all about British rule over the land. Only in this case the pivotal provocation relates to the Irish language itself.
Said to be partly based on facts Kneecap decisively delves deep into the politics of the day and in particular a family with a very determined dad. But it's the kids in later years who "graduate" into expressing their political and everyday living views through music. So a punk rock group called Kneecap is formed with these two disillusioned lads and a guiding maestro music school teacher whose own family is caught up in the language debate.
Graphic and exciting Kneecap thrusts you head first into the turmoil just bubbling beneath the surface. Throw in the odd corrupt cop or two, age-old grudges and undeniable stage presence along with a raucous bedside manner befitting a rock star and you've got a pretty appealing, original and eventful movie that's sure to leave you awestruck no matter whose side you're on.
To buy tickets in advance or learn about other entertaining movies at this year's festival go to Whistler filmfestival.com or call toll free 1-877-838-3456.
The Legend in Me - Whistler Film Festival(PG) * * *
Soul Man!
Legend. Few people earn that title let alone deserve it. Even less are the number of Canadians worthy of that status. From out of nowhere somehow the Whistler Film Festival managed to secure The Legend in Me. This dazzling documentary explores the unbelievable life of a sports dynasty. Share the love, heart and soul of a one of a kind true legend making its Canadian premier in scenic Whistler on Thursday December 5 at 4:45 Village 8 - Theatre 2 all thanks to Route 504 PR.
By now you're no doubt wondering just what is this movie about. Even this writer had to do a double take as The Legend in Me takes a deep dive into the unbelievable story of the Conacher family. More impressive is how director Calvin Hwang was able to get members of this family to open up about how through the years they handled the aura of family patriarch Lionel Conacher.
What goes into making a legend? Lots of hard work, practice and perseverance. Funny how you think you know someone and are blown away by just how little you know and how much more there is. With Lionel Conacher I learned that this man excelled in the minor leagues and professionally as a hockey great, baseball stalwart, football leader and boxing champion. And this is just one person. Imagining being a hero in just one sport. And this guy excelled in four. Amazing.
Now no family is without its problems no matter how rich, famous or successful. Candid interviews with household sports celebrities reveal the inspiration Lionel Conacher gave them. Less known and the true focus of this story is how a great grandson took a different path from the sporting world and just how difficult that road was to travel due to narrow mindedness and perhaps more dubious discrimination. Hey, it just ain't easy.
Smart, sincere, provocative,inspirational and highly emotional The Legend in Me has it all!
For tickets or more Information go to Whistlerfilmfestival.com or call toll free 1-877-838-3456
Diving into the Darkness - Whistler Film Festival(G) * * * * *
Water Warrior!
Whistler Mountain is known for the best skiing in North America - if not the world. Now an all year resort with recreational activities for everyone and not just the international jet set as a stop-over Robin Leach and the Hollywood elite would be oh so proud. Today this winter wonderland is more than just a one hit wonder.
One of the bright spots of this so close to home resort is the Whistler Film Festival. Just a two hour drive from Vancouver weather permitting this years festival is well worth the trip. Check out movies being offered this year at Whistlerfilmfestival.com. The film festival is short and sweet going from Dec 4-8.
A must see film and at the top of my list is Diving into the Darkness
This movie has everything Whistler has to offer: breathtaking natural beauty, adventure, action, excitement and a hero you can root for. No, we're not talking a James Bond Movie from the 1960s a la Sean Connery (though this years festival also showcases Daniel Craig's controversial Queer sexcapade) you can actually see some similarities to agent 007 if you pay close attention. Combining themes of space and aquatics befitting Starbucks Wars and Aquaman Diving Into the Darkness boldly goes where no other person has ventured. It's one small step for man one giant leap for mankind as we follow the incredible life of Jill Heinerth.
This documentary is simply amazing. Told in her own words the movie takes a deep dive into this woman's life when as a child we see her quest for knowledge and adventure. From this point onward we would see this humble Canadian born champion become a cave diver going deep into the bowels of the Earth on scientific journeys. All the danger facing this brave woman is front and Centre brought forth in amazing detail. With a watery atmosphere it is simply amazing how this rookie explorer braves the depths of a watery wonderland deep inside underwater cave networks in Mexico and beyond in a path of discovery, beauty and danger.
Edge of your seat cinematography and amazing tension abounds in this up close and riveting portrait of a one of a kind Canadian woman who broke barriers in science and exploration with a passion that must be seen to be believed.
For tickets to this amazing movie and more information at other films at this years festival go to Whistlerfilmfestival.com or call 1-877-838-3456.
Justice(PG) * * * *
Time's Up!
Good movies can be made everywhere. Hollywood no longer has a monopoly on audiences as it once had. Netflix shows the way to success with Justice. From Poland with love comes this well-acted head-turner that American studio heads can certainly learn a lot from.
Thought to be inspired by true events settle into a crackerjack of a movie. When some bank employees at a prominent bank in Poland are methodically killed during a robbery it sends shock waves through the country. With Poland's top police officials and the nations top level security apparatus charged with apprehending the robbers/killers all does not seeming to be going well. When in doubt go deep. And in this case an old washed-up (?) investigator is called back into active duty. It pays to have friends in high places. Or does it?
Man of the hour Olaf Lubaszenko is terrific as the old veteran cop whose methods may not be pretty but his results are. Teamed with a younger woman officer the pair navigate through a minefield of corruption and evil as they search for a killer or two. Or three.
Effective pacing and a tight taut tempo give Justice a very appealing if not thrilling atmosphere. All the characters here are interesting and the action though muted is highly engaging. Top performances and zestful directing from Michal Gazda make Justice a thrilling tale of crime and deceit. Highly enjoyable.
Conclave(PG) * * * *
Second Thoughts?
Religion can be fraught with errors. Subject matters. So does delivery. See the turmoil the death of a Pope causes in Conclave. No, you don't have to be religious or like religion to enjoy one of the best films of the year. Lucky British Columbians may have had the chance to watch this masterpiece at this years Vancouver International Film Festival. So here's an opportunity for others to see this one of a kind film at local Cineplex Cinemas or Landmark Theatres thanks to Elevation Pictures.
Former James Bond 's assignment dispatcher M takes centre stage in this majestic movie. Ralph Fiennes (Schindler's List) is the man of the moment as Cardinal Lawrence, the man charged with electing a new Pope in the most ancient and mysterious transfers of power ever conceived. And secretive.
Behind those closed doors and trappings of elegance are a group of diverse men ( and women) bounded by traditions - and egos. One by one day by day the personalities of each of the likely candidates are laid bare in just an unforgettable process. As dark secrets are revealed emotions run high with our Favourite Cardinal facing a seemingly impossible task on the way to salvation - or redemption.
Flawless acting by all the actors here makes Conclave so gripping you can't for a second take your eyes off the screen. Fiennes must win an Oscar for his work here. Also brilliant are the depictions set forth by the always ready to please Stanley Tucchi and John Lithgow among others. Touching on all kinds of dirty secrets the Church had become known own for Conclave shies away from nothing and will take your breath away.
Director Edward Berger does a monumental job here examining this ancient transfer of power rite. Gorgeous cinematography and a boisterous witty script help make Conclave a truly memorable movie with jarring jaw dropping performances.
Goodrich(PG) * * * *
Mr. Mom!
Remember Mr. Mom? That film from a few decades back was ahead of its time. For sure. Versatile actor and former caped crusader Michael Keaton (The Founder) returns to rather familiar territory with the topical Goodrich. No relation to the famed tire manufacturer this wholesome drama from Elevation pictures is relevant and entertaining. And even rather endearing. See some quality acting and drama unfold at select Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C.
Families. Love em or hate em. One thing is certain: never a dull moment transpires with families and relationships. Our man Goodrich is no exception to the good times - and setbacks. Being successful can only go so far. On the outside it seems that
Our good man has it all. Too bad for him that that fabled lifestyle has a bump in the road. And not just a minor irritant. When Mrs. Goodrich suddenly without warning decides to up and leave it puts the man of the house in quite the predicament.
Taking care of kids is no easy job so Andy Goodrich calls upon Grace, the daughter of his first marriage, to come to the rescue. Well, not so fast. You see Grace is busy having her own baby and the two don't seem to get along. Mila Kunis does a great job trying to cope with motherhood and deal with her somewhat aloof and disjointed dad.
Let's be clear: the heart of this film rests with the performance of Michael Keaton. And he does a wonderful job navigating all the stresses, heartaches, triumphs and sorrows parenting and marriage entail. Director/writer Hallie Myers-Shyer pulls of a heartwarming tail of life and family emboldened by top performances, realistic dialogue and a sincerity that shines bright.
Woman of the Hour(PG) * * *
Creepy Crawly!
Perfect timing as the witching season nears sees Woman of the Hour come along. Not for the faint of heart this thriller from VVS Films is now showing on various screening services such as Netflix, Apple TV , Roku and Fire TV.
Said to be based on real events Woman of The Hour is an eye-opener. Told in a flashback style that works this film is all about a fledgling young actress trying to "make it" in Hollywood. So often we hear of these hard luck tales of disappointment when dreams disappear. Only in the case of Cheryl Bradshaw One wrong turn can lead to untold disaster. Cast as this lady in distress is Anna Kendrick who also directs and co-produced this freaky thriller.
Set in the trendy early 70s Cheryl decides to audition for the ever popular Dating Game tv show. Game shows come and go and our Cheryl ultimately gets over her coy shyness and reluctance to pepper three "eligible" bachelors for her dream date. What follows the interview and live television performance reveals one of the bachelors may not exactly be marriage material. Or so the story goes.
Watch out for newsman in the making Rodney Alcala. Looks can be deceiving so it's not surprising when this enterprising photographer sets off Cheryl's spidey senses. What follows is an intriguing game of cat and mouse with pretty girls being more than willing subjects for an aspiring cameraman's film reel.
Based on a serial killer that plagued California throughout the 1980s Woman of the Hour shows just how dangerous it is to meet strangers no matter how charming and Charismatic. Anne Kendrick is terrific as the lonesome lady with Daniel Zovatto downright chilling as a wolf in Sheep's clothing.
Before Dawn(PG) * * *
Rough Ride!
War is hell. No doubt about that. While two wars are currently raging in Ukraine thanks to deadly Russian Aggression and in the Middle East owing to terrorist worshipping Iran let's take a walk back in time. Weaponry was decidedly different during World War 1. Upstart Well Go USA Entertainment shines a bright light on the intensity of combat in the gut-wrenching Before Dawn. Armchair generals and those into history or modern times will be well advised to check out this dynamic drama which is now out on DVD, Blu-ray and streaming services on line.
A smart script and realistic acting sets the tone for this combat outing as we follow the wear and tear on a Group of boys . Friends for life may as well have been the motto for this group of Australian young men who saddle up and enrol to combat the German forces on the move in Europe. They wind up in France and over nearly three years they face untold hardships in the trenches.
Very good cinematography hones in on all the hand to hand combat and strategy as the western general in charge of the division does his best to try to outfox his German counterpart. All the emotion, struggle and bravely is front and centre in this effective movie that shows the horrors of war, up close and personal, most often seen through the lens of Jim Collins who is well portrayed by Levi Miller.
Lee(PG) * * * *
Barrier Breaker!
Standout acting flourishes in Lee. Presented by Elevation Pictures this harrowing tale
Shows the bravery a woman possesses breaking down countless barriers in search of the truth. See a unique drama unfold at select Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C. before it launches on streaming services and makes its way onto DVD and Blu-Ray.
It helps to have a good director - and message. Canadian theatrical master James Cameron not too long ago launched a "little" movie called Titanic. That film at the time became the most successful film of all time. ( excluding the original 1960s Sean Connery James Bond phenomena) but of course. This sea saga catapulted two then unknown youthful actors into global fame: Leo the Great and Captivating Kate. To see just how good an actress Kate Winslet has become check out her Oscar bound performance in Lee.
Told in flashback style Lee explores the one of a kind life and lifestyle of Lee Miller. Set in fashionable Europe in the early 20th Century our American transplant lives quite the life in Bohemian France. Liberal and adventurous the crowd this model moves with is fast and oh so sexy. You can sense and feel the exuberance of this bohemian attitude to life and living. Unfortunately for this close group of friends a little madman maniac named Adolph Hitler puts a devastating crimp in their lives.
Now caught up in war Lee decides to become a war photographer journalist for Vogue Magazine. Have camera will travel might as well be her new motto and calling card a la Paladin, What follows is a gut-wrenching transformation as this brave woman breaks down barriers and records with her camera the horrors of war. Director Ellen Kuras here helms an effective expose on the horrors of war and the steadfast resolve of a lone woman who sets out to make a difference despite facing discrimination and an unknown ruthless enemy,
Smart, stylish and important Lee is an outstanding drama of a troubling time in world history. Kate Winslet's performance is flawless and will stick with you. Highly recommended there is no doubt this solemn story will definitely be heard at next years Oscar's. It's just that good. And meaningful.
The Mob(PG) * * *
Shanghai Surprise!
Control of a fabled city is up for grabs when a power vacuum leads to trumped ( if you'll excuse the expression ) up chaos in the dynamic gang thriller The Mob. Made available now on digital services and DVD plus Blu-ray this action packed adventure from Well Go USA entertainment is sure to leave you breathless
Fans of classics like John Wick will feel right at home viewing The Mob. Like the title suggests this story puts one rival against another in a quest to control a majestic Chinese city in modern times. Run by an aging cabal of criminals family and loyalty matters as a leading scion is on the verge of death. So it's up to his well educated offspring to take the reigns of power in this murky underworld flush full of elegance and blood-thirsting foot soldiers who engage in all sorts of subterfuge and mayhem to assume power.
Energy abounds in this movie as do well choreographed fights throughout. Told partly with the aid of flashbacks thanks to well defined characters you'll have the chance to choose your favourite and sit back and cheer on your favourite in this thriller that also tries to mimic some real events in Asian history. Complete with corrupt cops The Mob is a non-stop actioner with stunts that even Bruce Lee would find appealing despite their over the top far-fetched nature and tone. Get in the zone for this fun blood dripping free spirited romp.
Happy Campers(PG) * * * * *
Folksy charm!
Off the wall and quaint is Happy Campers. Having received accolades at a number of film festivals this pseudo documentary is now showing across Canada in I-tunes, presented in Canada by EGPR this new movie is available for viewing for VOD and also. C on all major platforms
Based on real people this film tacks the goings on of various friends over time who bond together. What brings these folks together is that they life in run down rvs in a beautiful seaside community in Virginia . Oh the people are so friendly and content living the simple life as they.do. We get to know these people - and like them. But this idyllic world comes a tumbling down when the land where they live on is sold to - wait for it - wealthy developers, my oh my,
Fun To watch, hard to swallow director Amy Nicholson manages to take a subject that's not so exciting and turn into an impactful journey.
The Front Room(PG) * *
Child's Play!
Having a baby can be a Joyful experience. Or not. You could say the devil is in the details. Or in the people. You be the judge as Elevation Pictures takes us down the rabbit hole with The Front Room. Different, delectable and devilish fun awaits all onlookers as this bizarre and unique movie makes its way onto streaming services.
Don't you just love senior citizens. Perhaps not. A rocky family dynamic among a young mixed couple and newborn baby takes a turn for unpredictability when the fathers mom decides to come a calling . But this isn't your everyday mom to be sure. Different strokes for different folks.
All Belinda and Norman want is some peace and quiet where they can bring up their new baby. Fat chance as somehow Norman's mom Solange arrives on the scene. Not surprisingly actors Brandy Norwood and Andrew Burnap convey just the right degree of apprehension over the geriatric granny's decision to stay in their home. Religion runs deep in the veins of this babe which wrinkly Kathryn Hunter has a field day with.
Fluffy, not so family friendly yet fun in a macabre sense the winning ways of Ms, Hunter helps give The Front Room just the right degree of oomph to this creepy though tepid horror story. It's a guilty pleasure if you want to see the ultimate home-wrecker do her thing.
Strange Darling (PG) * * * *
Dangerous Liaisons!
Get set for a joy ride like no other. Or one Night stand that just is hard to fathom. Any way you slice it dating can be problematic . See the mating game go just a touch off kilter in the scintillating Strange Darling. Horror never looked so chic - or grotesque. See the ruination of two different, well maybe not too different lost souls at certain Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C, courtesy of VVS Films. Enter, but only if you dare!
Love can happen anytime any place. Lust is definitely on the menu for one macho guy and an equally devilish lass. From car to hotel room to a run on a freeway is all part of the mix in this freaky thriller that is artistic and ghoulish at the same time. Solid performances and a story line that truly keeps you on the edge of your seats not knowing what is coming next add to the impact of this sordid sexy affair, And you really don't know what will happen moment to moment thanks to a very good story,
Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner are simply outstanding as the I'll jilted lovers (?) who turn out to be killers. Full of unbelievable twists and turns this sexy kinky thriller is full on original and downright sensational. Let's just say Strange Darling turns the dating world on its head. Full of intensity and raw emotion this is a film people will be talking about for a long long time,
Set in the wild wilderness of Hood River Oregon Strange Darling mixes drugs and violence and is based on a true story. Shocking. Positively shocking. And definitely not for the kids.
Running on Empty(PG) * *
Out of Gas
Take an old movie title and spice it up with up dates of sorts. That's kind of the interesting appeal with Running on Empty. Credit Elevation Pictures for bringing this flick to select Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres prior to it moving to streaming services.
From the get go you know Running on Empty is different. Set in modern trendy left leaning California there's a company whose mandate is to let people know when they will die. Sounds rather ghoulish, doesn't it? Naturally two mismatched lovers (?) take the plunge and the results given by a white lab-coated doctor don't exactly go as planned. Really?
With a shortened life span the out to lunch out of mind newly single guy starts to enter the dating pool. Why not? Matched up with a very attractive woman things don't go as planned when it's time to pay the bill for that marry thrill. Now marked fore life a crazed out pimp enters the fray and chaos ensues,
Running on empty is a blackish dark comedy with a heavy edge to it. Good performances can't take away from the crude subject matters, different strokes for different folks I guess. Just not my cup of tea - but a good fill-in on a cheap Tuesday day out.
Between The Temples(PG) * *
Tender Hooks!
At a time when the world faces untold evil with a relentless aggressor along comes Between The Temples. With a decidedly Jewish theme this offbeat tale explores the unwieldy life of a mixed marriage like no other. Come enjoy the charm of religion played for subtle laughs in this tender film from Sony Pictures Classics and Mongrel Media now playing at select Cineplex Cinemas and perhaps some Landmark Theatres across B.C. before going onto streaming services.
Decidedly different for sure Between The Temples is all about love when you get right down to the nitty gritty. Set on the East Coast of America the film focuses solely on the plight of mixed up / messed up Ben Gottlieb. With a name like that you kind of know the guys Jewish and Jason Schwartzman perfectly embodies the character. You see this guy tries to be a cantor at a local synagogue but has lost his voice. Go figure.
Being the ultimate mama's boy this nebbish accidentally latches onto a woman from his past which reveals the latent anti-Semitism that is omni-present in mixed relationships and currently is taking on dark forms with the demonization of Israel and support of terrorism. But that's a whole other issue with Iran the number one supporter of hatred and aggression.
Closer to home director/writer Nathan Silver was brave enough to make this small yet important film whose message on tolerance needs to be heard. Good performances help uplift t7his movie . Unfortunately one always needs to wonder why certain movies are made. Between The Temples has lots of heart and soul. Designed for older audiences it deserves a chance to be seen. And heard.
Close to YouFar Away
At times one wonders the objective of filmmakers. A new film from Mongrel media sets the stage for some ongoing debates. Made by both British and Canadian filmmakers Close to You is an interesting tale of family and strife. Check it out at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres before it goes onto streaming services.
Movies are made for two reasons and two reasons only: to entertain and enlighten. Oh, and let's not forget the root of all evil: to make money. At least the latter is what prospective investors normally seek. With Close To You the aim must be to enlighten. Many Actors like to appear in films that are substantive. Well clearly Close To You explores the dynamic of family, extended family and friendships.
At the heart of this drama is a young man who now lives in Toronto. Young Sam is having a tough go making it in Toronto. Appealing Elliot Page of Juno fame stirs up lots of emotion as the lad who thanks to a chance romantic encounter of sorts with a long lost friend aboard a train sees his life veer off course. And when he's invited to a family birthday in his old home town things really heat up.
Very talkative and full of emotion Close To You is a nice little drama if you can sit through it without boredom setting in. Here it is at its best is when it shows the inbred. Prejudices some folks harbor. On this level it works quite well.
Balestra(PG) * *
En Garde!
Eyes are sure to be focused on the Olympics this week. Despite the focus on the cheating scandal connected to the Canadian women's soccer team let's not forget the other sports connected to this coming together of elite athletes. Perfect timing sees the sport of fencing come under the gun in Balestra, the newest offering from Elevation Pictures. Check it out at select Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around B.C. Before it goes onto streaming services.
Winning is everything. This truism by famed NFL Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi is now more apparent than ever. Athletes always want an edge an aging fencing champion Joanna Bathory is no exception to the role reveals. Lots of problems confront this woman and her emotion is on full display thanks to actress Cush Jumbo. Aided by her training obsessed husband Coach Ralph the pair are now mounting a comeback on the world stage. Hard as nails James Badge Dale will do anything and everything to see that his wife wins. With that in mind he lets her take an injection from a covert cutting edge mysterious medical/science clinic that lets her train while she dreams. Seems kind of spooky, doesn't it?
Science fiction mixes with reality in this movie. Overly long at two hours and twenty minutes it's hard to keep in focus or to keep track of all that this alternate reality encompasses. By far the best part of this film are the fencing bouts. Dream maker Manny Jacinto comes on strong as a dream lover but at times it's just a little hard deciphering all the back and forth between dreams and reality. Take it all with a grain of salt if you haven't dozen off into a deep sleep yourself. Still Balestra is interesting and rather thought-provoking to say the least.
Kneecap(PG) * * * *
Rogue Warrior!
Hollywood for years has been accused of doing nothing new. So studios have art divisions in hopes of finding new original material.Leave it to Sony Pictures Classics to scour the earth and come up with Kneecap, a jarring thought-provoking Irish shot movie that shines a new light on that part of the world. Presented in British Columbia by Mongrel media this movie is bound to set of a stir - in a nice kind of way. It will be opening at select Cineplex Cinemas as well as Landmark Theatres across B.C.
For years Ireland has been producing good movies with Irish themes to them. Those themes resonated with global audiences since their thoughts can be embraced universally. Ever since the 1980s the Emerald Isle has produced some great movies. To this list must now be added Kneecap.
Smartly set over the years in Belfast its themes can't be denied. Especially with the long lasting tradition of English French friction in Canada seemingly at odds since Confederation. Naturally in Northern Ireland the struggle is all about British rule over the land. Only in this case the pivotal provocation relates to the Irish language itself.
Said to be partly based on facts Kneecap decisively delves deep into the politics of the day and in particular a family with a very determined dad. But it's the kids in later years who "graduate" into expressing their political and everyday living views through music. So a punk rock group called Kneecap is formed with these two disillusioned lads and a guiding maestro music school teacher whose own family is caught up in the language debate.
Graphic and exciting Kneecap thrusts you head first into the turmoil just bubbling beneath the surface. Throw in the odd corrupt cop or two, age-old grudges and undeniable stage presence along with a raucous bedside manner befitting a rock star and you've got a pretty appealing, original and eventful movie that's sure to leave you awestruck no matter whose side you're on.
