Restrepo - Super Short Review

Restrepo - Outpost Films

Chilling documentary. Gets you closer than any war film I've seen. Good coverage of fighting, but emphasis on the relationships and bonding of the men of the platoon. Combat and downtime footage interspersed with meaningful interviews of the men. Causes you to reflect and be thankful. Eventual Best Documentary nominee, and possible winner. Very deserving.

Grade: B+

The Lottery - Super Short Review

The Lottery - Variance Films

"Waiting for Superman" - lite. Documentary about students hoping for a spot in Harlem's premier charter school. Four families chronicled; emotional attachment (or any real attachment at all) only formed with one family - a deaf single mom and her daughter. Less about education in general, and more about New York schooling specifically. On Oscar Documentary shortlist; I bet it doesn't get a nod. Not sure it would deserve one. Kept me interested, but didn't have any lasting effect.

Grade: B-

The Kids Are All Right - Super Short Review

The Kids Are All Right - Focus Features

Relationships are all the same - straight, gay, etc. This reminds me why Julianne Moore and Annette Bening are two of my favorite actresses. A film with a very independent feel, but it never tries too hard. Mark Ruffalo never really wins me over; he's just there. You want to root for the family. The last few minutes seem a bit rushed and contrived. Bening has my vote for the Best Actress Oscar so far (beating Portman). Julianne Moore is beautiful.

Grade: A-

Black Swan - Super Short Review

Black Swan -Fox Searchlight

Suspense that doesn't ever seem to let up. Natalie Portman obviously committed to role. When she hurts, you hurt. Barbara Hershey simultaneously angers you and freaks you out. Mila Kunis is good, but Oscar worthy? A dark and twisted fantasy portrayed beautifully on screen. Somewhat confusing ending. Drags in parts.

Grade: B+

The Fighter - Super Short Review

The Fighter - Paramount Pictures

Same old boxing story, but something more. Authentic costumes, deliberate music, and beautiful fight sequences. White trash-chic. Melissa Leo shines in mom jeans, Christian Bale amazes with no body fat, and Amy Adams charms, as always. Mark Wahlberg is predictable Mark Wahlberg. Hoping Leo is future Oscar winner. Pretty certain Bale will be. A must see story, which, despite being a true story, keeps you wondering what will happen next.

Grade: A-