Ain’t Them Bodies Saints Review
RATING: (3 STARS) David Lowery’s Ain’t Them Bodies Saints has been compared to a Terrence Malick film for its lyrical tone, outlaw characters, persistent score, and painterly handheld cinematography. Such comparisons are understandable but a little unfair. Ain’t Them Bodies Saints is more than a mere Malick rip-off. It’s a lovely yarn about learning to […]
Rampart Review
RATING: (3 STARS) Rampart is another in a long line of 2011 character studies focusing on a man or woman on his or her her way to hitting rock bottom. Drive did something similar, as did Martha Marcy May Marlene. Perhaps the most apt companion piece would be We Need to Talk About Kevin. Disregarding […]
The Messenger Review
RATING: (3 STARS) Oren Moverman’s “The Messenger†is an effective drama about the tragedy of war. It focuses on two men who might have one of the worst jobs imaginable. They are responsible for delivering death notifications to the families of fallen soldiers. It’s a premise ripe for powerful moments and intense drama. The film […]
The Ten Best Performances of 2009
Below are my ten favorite performances of the year. I wouldn’t dare say they were the ten best, but for one reason or another, I preferred these above any others in 2009. Some will be nominated for Oscars; others won’t be. But these actors and their outstanding work helped make 2009 such a strong year […]
