The Drop (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1600196/

Pretty good but a bit mixed up - a man and his dog, a man and his girl, a man and the mob. Shame about the overwrought accents. The cast is good, but ultimately the story is predictable. 

Foxcatcher (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1100089/

I fear this movie will be the Mystic River of 2014. The critics are loving this one, but I just don't get it. The movie was long and slow and not interesting. The performances were excellent, it's just unfortunate they weren't of more interesting people. And now that I've learned that several key elements diverge from the truth (it is based on a true story. If not actually being entirely true), it makes the whole thing seem like a waste of 2+ hours, not to mention of Vanessa Redgrave in a terrible role. 

Disastrous dinner parties

Coherence (2013) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2866360/

It's a Disaster (2012) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1995341/

We've seen this pair of movies over the past year, and since they share a similar theme - disasters making for awkward dinner parties - I'm lumping them together. 

Coherence is definitely the better of the two - creepier and more sinister, with a more complicated story involving the nature of time and reality, and better dialogue and performances. Not perfect but definitely worth watching. 

It's a Disaster takes more comedic approach to a similarly serious incident, and makes a bit of a mess of it. Like a campy horror film, the characters make bad / stupid decisions and make a bad situation worse, at least one person gets ridiculously drunk, and the resolution of the story is lame, just like the dialogue and characters. 

The Guest (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2980592/

If Jason Bourne were not so nice, he'd be The Guest. Overall, pretty good but a bit predictable. 

'71 (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2614684/

Good if somewhat predictable / stereotypical portrayal of the Troubles. The performances are good, and the dialogue and pace of the story are well done. 

A Most Wanted Man (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1972571/

The good, intense story, along with the fabulous performances by Hoffmann and the German and Chechen (or other) actors, almost redeem this predictable tale and the terrible peformances (and dreadful accents) of the other American actors (Willem Dafoe and Rachel McAdams, I'm talking about you). I can see Hoffmann getting a posthumous Oscar nod for this one. 

Annabelle (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322940/

This fairly overwrought prequel to The Conjuring is plagued by bad dialogue and a horrible doll (it makes no sense why anyone would want such an ugly toy). 

As Above, So Below (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2870612/

Not bad. A decent found-footage horror movie, set in the catacombs of Paris (so to for the claustrophobic), where a group searches for the philosophers stone and finds the gates of hell as a bonus. If any of them had seen an Indiana Jones movie, they could have avoided most of their troubles. 

The Love Punch (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2234261/

A cute and funny love story and jewel heist caper, with great performances by Pierce Brosnan and Emma Thompson (both looking great too). The title makes no sense, but the story is light and fun and well done. 

I Origins (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2884206/

Fascinating story about love, science, and spirits. Perhaps science can prove that the eyes are the windows to the soul. Or perhaps just that the more we learn and know, the more mystery there is. An excellent tale well told. 

Tusk (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3099498/

Weird. Hard to watch and hard not to. 

Reclaim (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3202890/

Interesting premise - well-off couple seeks to adopt orphan from Haiti after the earthquake, and gets caught up in a scam. A cautionary tale about the perils of going outside official channels. Ryan Philliipe does a great job at the near-dad seeking redemption, and John Cusack is at last in a role that's not cringe-inducingly bad. It all comes together well in the end, and the cute-beyond-words girl finally gets a room of her own. 

The Device (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3593120/

This was a surprise - an interesting take on alien invasion/abduction in a low budget thriller. Good performances and story, and little reliance on special effects, create good tension and suspense. 

The Broken Shore (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2391073/

Well done mystery in smallish town Australia. Someone's seeking vengeance for years of residential school abuse, and the local cop (recently relocated from homicide squad, conveniently) tracks down the culprits. Unfortunately, it is part one of a series of stories (at least one more) and the ending - as well as much of the film, feels like a well done made for tv miniseries(which, actually, it was). Looking forward to part two. 

The Mule (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2130270/

This was better than I was expecting. Despite the gross bathroom stunts, this is a decent police and mob story, with a hapless underdog getting the best of everyone. Most of the bad guys get their come uppance, and there's a happy ending all round. Just be sure to be able to control your gag reflex Ina few scenes. 

The Equalizer (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0455944/

A well done version of this tale and character. Denzel Washington is perfectly cast as the title character and the supporting roles are well done. The Russian mafia story is a bit over the top, and the climax scenes in the hardware store are closer to Die Hard than The Equalizer, but no matter. A well done action flick. 

Gone Girl (2014)

So much potential. The first half of the film is a tense well-constructed mystery, but it devolves rapidly in the second half to a tv-show-type quasi-comedic farce, with the feel of Desperate Housewives.

Paddington (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1109624/

I'm not at all familiar with the Paddington children's story, other than that he was a beat who came to London and had some adventures. I'm reasonably certain that none of those original adventures involved being stalked and then kidnapped by a poison dart toting dominatrix-cum-taxidermist bent on killing and stuffing him for display in a museum, who then opts for attempting to incinerate him. Much of the film is sweet, funny and harmless - and even entertaining for kids of all ages - but the scary bits are too much for the target audience of 6-10 year olds, and add nothing to plot. The bear, the family and all of their bits are excellent, but mostly spoiled by the really mean lady.  

Manny (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1778931/

A well done but somewhat incomplete documentary of the Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao, the film covers his life and times to a few years ago. It does tend to gloss over certain elements of his life that might be seen as unflattering - infidelity, money scams, etc.- which makes it seem less documentary and more fan flattery. 

Stonehearst Asylum (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1772264/

Also called Eliza Graves. So much potential in story and actors wasted in this mess. Ben Kingsley is in danger of becoming a caricature of the exotic psychopath. As for the others, they must as some point have realized this was off the rails, but they pulled it into the station, and then likely made haste for something, anything, else. 

Dracula Untold (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0829150/

Pretty terrible. Bad special effects, poor acting, and a lousy script all add up to two hours you'll never get back. 

The Babadook (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2321549/

Creepy but ultimately ineffective story about a bad guy, a book and a strange house and family. The first half is pretty good but the ending is lame. 

War of the Worlds (2008)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0407304/

This was pretty good, if a bit over the top. Some ridiculous bits and miraculous survivals but overall entertaining and pretty true to the original story. 

Livid (2011)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1727516/

Not great - creepy dark house, suspicious past, hidden treasure and lots of gruesome deaths. 

The Judge (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1872194/

Okay and predictable. Robert Downey is his usual lovable rakish self in the big-man-comes-home role, and Robert Duvall is his usual gruff and impatient but ultimately loving and smart father. There's the girl he left behind, the mysterious daughter, and the mystery of the court case providing backdrop to the father and son repartee. Fairly typical Hollywood stuff. Not horrible, but nothing to get excited about. 

Housebound (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3504048/

Mystery with some horror and comedy elements. Entertaining and light. 

Wolves (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1403241/

Ay yi yi. Quite terrible teen werewolf story. A bit of a mix of Underworld and Twilight. 

Land Ho! (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3283556/

Buddy road trip story in Iceland. Some funny moments, lovely scenery and a feel good story make for a nice little film. 

Young Ones (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2693664/

An interesting global warming apocalypse story (with a really bad title). Excellent performances all round and an uplifting conclusion make this long film worthwhile. 

November Man (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2402157/

Mediocre spy story, with an okay premise but flawed execution. The title makes no sense and the relationships make no sense. Watching Pierce Brosnan makes up for the many flaws. 

The Grand Seduction (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2319580/

Light Newfie comedy, predictable but entertaining. I'm sure French version came together a bit better than this one, which tries a bit too hard to capitalize on the oddities of Newfoundland. 

Automata (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1971325/

Interesting but highly flawed story about AI as part of the human world, combined with elements of post-apocalypse from global warming. Scariest part - Melanie Griffith. 

Stretch (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2494280/

This is a not-bad comedy/action movie, with the superb Patrick Wilson as the ne'er-do-well actor-turned-limo-driver who has the worst night of his life. The characters are all more caricatures of crazy or typical folks that populate a Los Angeles night, but he persists and perseveres, finding safety and redemption in the end. An enjoyable light movie, much better than this year's female counterpart (Walk of Shame (2014)).

Deliver Us From Evil (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2377322/

Strange to see two modern-day exorcism movies within a few weeks of each other - perhaps this is a new genre emerging, like zombies or haunted houses. This movie is disjointed and unbelievable on so many levels, it does a complete disservice to any true story it might be based on. None of the actors are believable in their roles - Eric Bana cannot decide on the accent he will use for this, and he is both too old to be partners with Joel McHale and too young to "retire" as he is purported to do after this story; Edgar Ramirez as the priest is ridiculous with the prodigious smoking and long wavy hair; all other police officers shown do nothing but stand around in open mouthed awe at the strange actions around them. A weak effort all around.

The Rite (2011)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1161864/

It was interesting to see a modern-day exorcist story - who knew such a thing would be based on a true story/real people? A documentary might have been more interesting, but likely unrealistic. This telling of the main character's history and calling is interesting but not very well done, with several story gaps and extraneous characters. The actual exorcisms happens relatively quickly, making them seem rather trivial, and also much more commonplace than I think any might expect or believe.

Horns (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1528071/

"Sometimes there is no right thing - you just have to pick the sin you can live with."

A bit of a modern day fairy tale, it exams what what happens when a man's inner demon makes an outer appearance as two demonic horns, complete with the effect of stirring demonic thoughts and actions in others. While this conceit has great potential, it gets squandered it on too much comedy and special effects, and ultimately ends exhausted and boring back where it began. Excellent cast wasted in bad dialogue and lame scenes.

Frozen River (2008)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0978759/

This is an interesting tale of people caught in a scheme of cross-border human trafficking. The background elements of poverty and despair, as well as the difficult interface and integration of native reserve dwellers and those around them, make for interesting characters and story lines the compel you through to the end of the film. Melissa Leo is outstanding (Oscar nom well earned here), as is the depiction of grim and grimy winter on the edge of the country.

Neighbors (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2004420/

A horrible and forgettable film about a young couple of slackers with a new baby, who buy a house that turns out to be next to a notorious fraternity house. Hilarity is supposed to ensue, but instead inanity reigns, as bad and badly executed comedic scenes follow one after another, as subtle and enjoyable as blows to the head with a blunt instrument.

This is 40 (2014)

Bad bad bad. So very bad. I'm not even publishing the link as I don't want anyone to accidentally watch this horrible movie.

The Gatekeepers (2012)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2309788/

This is a very interesting and well-done documentary about the mysterious Shin Bet, Isreal's national security agency. Interviewing all surviving former heads of the agency, the film covers the history, controversies, and challenges of this shadowy group. With remarkable candour and incredible access, the film presents a surprising (to me) balance of the needs of a nation to defend itself and the tragic errors and missteps that a nation can make in pursing those needs. I learned about elements of this ongoing conflict that I'd never heard before, told with both humility and vehemence by the very people who can make life and death happen. It was particularly poignant to see this during a time of (yet more) conflict in that region.

Mystery Road (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2236054/

Australian Outback police story, set against the backdrop of drugs and poverty in middle-of-nowhere place. The story is confused and tangled, and ultimately unsatisfactorily resolved. The occasional note of the influence of Aboriginal culture and associated racism towards that group only add to the confusion of the story. Beautiful images of desolation, and a well-done gunfight near then end, do not rescue this movie from mediocrity. And the title makes no sense.

Lucy (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2872732/

Interesting but flawed tale about a woman caught in a Taiwanese gang slash sci fi, where she becomes a super intellect super power with a limited life. DOA meets Old Boy. Good idea and good performances but it doesn't come together as coherent or believable. Too bad. 

A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0365907/

A good hard-boiled detective story, with a strange title for what actually goes on. It has a real Sam Spade feel to it. Good performances all round. 

How to Train Your Dragon 2

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1646971/

This is a great sequel (although it would have been nice to have a more original title) - a great story and action, and fantastic animation. The writers are doing a great job of keeping the story fresh, even with the tv show, and with allowing the characters to grow and grow up. Original and fun and entertaining. 

Draft Day (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2223990/

Nicely done one-day story, with touches of romance, comedy and celebrity spotting. While the heart-warming touches were predictable, the pathway to them was not, and so only moderately Disney-feeling. Nice performances all around, and nice to see Kevin Costner back and in fine sporting-movie form. 

Jamie Marks is Dead (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2381046/

A very interesting ghost story - a kind of adolescent The Sixth Sense. Not too scary but still certainly spooky, with great performances from all of the teens (sadly, the same is not true for the two adults - Liv Tyler, what has happened to you?

The Rover (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2345737/

This was a very spare but violent film, with lovely landscapes and a haunting score. Comparisons with other post apocalyptic films such as Mad Max are not really appropriate. Performances by Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson were exceptional, although the script and story have many weak spots, including the ending. 

Are you here (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1545754

This was a strange film. A story about friendship, family, love, self-discovery, the decline of civilization, natural food, and saving the planet - but not really addressing any of those thing directly or completely. Owen Wilson as his usual goofy and oddly attractive self, and Zach G as the stoner, start out as you'd expect, but then the story takes several strange turns and becomes more interesting and hopeful than expected. This was neither The Hangover or The Big Chill - it was unfocused and really not that funny, but still worth watching for moments of brilliance like this:

"That's the thing about friendship - it's a lot rarer than love. And there's nothing in it for any body."

The Quiet Ones (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2235779/

Strange horror movie about I-don't-know-what. Possession? Ghosts? Demons? Didn't really care. 

Tammy (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2103254

Bad. Really really bad. I think they were trying for Thelma and Louise meets The Hangover, but it was just horrible gags and gaffs by the horrible Melissa McCarthy. Susan Sarandon must have lost a big bet to have ended up in this. 

Maleficent (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1587310

This film is very well done - lovely to look at, great characters, good story, and best of all NO MUSICAL NUMBERS. Angelina Jolie is outstanding as the hero/villian, and most of the rest of the cast matches her; the exception is the terribly miscast Sharlto Copley, who is just not believable as the lame ambitious king. Although the ending is somewhat predictable, the story is heartwarming and worth watching. 

Endurance (2000)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0264578/

Excellent documentary. The film seemlessly blends interviews, images and film footage from 100 years ago and today, with great narration and cahracitures of the historical figures. Wonderful. 

Beyond the Edge (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2468638/

An okay version of the 1953 climbing of Mt. Everest by Hillary and Norgay. It was an interesting blend of real and faux-documentary footage, with voiceover/dialogue entirely from the real folks. But while some of the cinematography was breathtaking, other parts seemed amateurishly done, especially the scenes of climbers standing around at 26,000 with no wind and hardly a parka on anywhere (and you couldn't see their breath). It's also impossible to believe that this was filmed on Everest, given the length of time required for filming and the complete absence of any evidence of other modern-day climbers (which Everest is currently littered with).

Papadoupoulos & Sons (2012)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2006810/

A lovely and heartfelt story about the fall and rise of a Greek-English family caught in the storm of the 2008 financial crisis. Looking at the notion of returning to your roots to find your way forward is a classic story set in modern times.

The Calling (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1666335

Very well done thriller, with a great story, performances and setting - a cross-Canada serial killer mystery. Also, unbelievable cast and some strikingly good performances from unexpected folks (Gil Bellows and Topher Grace were outstanding). A few procedural and other holes, and I think several key elements of the story (from the novel by Inger Ash Wolfe) had to be dropped to save time, do not take away from the tension and mystery.

Locke (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2692904/

Well done one-man show, with a great performance by Tom Hardy. Tense, moving and captivating.

I'll Follow You Down (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3297792/

Interesting time travel/love story, with good performances all round with the notable exception of Haley Joel Osment - who has not retained anything of his charm or talent since childhood. Rather fantastic science story for the time travel piece, but otherwise a delightful tale.

The Lego Movie (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1490017/

"This is awesome!" I was surprised how much I enjoyed this. It really is a grown up movie, with pop culture and literary references that would sail over the heads of the Lego age range - my favourite was the "piece of resistance". The climax and conclusion was also well done, with the merging of the real and toy worlds in a very clever way. The inclusion of Batman, the middle managers, and Gandalf/Dumbledore were well done, and the animation with Lego (especially the ocean and underwater scenes) were fantastic. Highly recommend this for just about everyone.

Disney's Bears (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2458776/

Beautiful and amazing footage, but I could have done without the naming of all of the animals - typical Disney anthropomorphization - and the phoney "dialogue". And they lived happily ever after, of course. No threat to the Attenborough dynasty at BBC or the Discovery Channel, both of whom do this kind of thing much better.

Man of Steel (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0770828/

A pretty good version of this story - perhaps the third time's the charm? Good use of modern technology in this film, to bring the story up to date, while maintaining the characters and basics of the legend. The extreme violence and destruction of the repeated battles was realistic, but it's hard to imagine that the aftermath of all of that could leave folks as cheery as they were at the end. Well set-up for the sequel.

Love is All you Need (2012)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1854236/

A delightful love story in such a beautiful setting. Pierce Brosnan is excellent as the tough but needing to be vulnerable sad man,  not looking for love but really needing it. The blend of casts from various nationalities, and the combination of languages and cultures, makes for a very interesting environment for the story. And a delightfully happy and not sappy ending. Love is not always be easy, but it is all you need.

Survivor (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3297792/

Interesting story very badly executed. Lame dialogue and acting, and even worse special effects make this Starlost meets Planet of the Apes (with a hint of The Matrix) very bad indeed.

Plunder Road (1957)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050847/

Film noir about a clever but ultimately doomed (of course) train robbery. Classic characters but not the best acting or dialogue.

Quatemass II (1957)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050873/

A very early sci fi classic, a precursor of Alien, the Borg, and the Body Snatchers. 

Le Cercle Rouge (1970)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0065531

A classic French crime thriller. Very well done, if a bit slow in spots.

The Treatment (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3089778/

Belgian film about a serial pedophile and killer, there are some difficult to watch/hear scenes but they are handled well as part of the story and so neither gratuitous nor excessive. The story has several threads of tragedy woven somewhat together, but ultimately really are separate arcs other than one providing the emotional motivation for the other. The lead character, Nik Cafmeyer (played well by Geert van Rampelberg), is highly emotional and conflicted - to me, a bit too much to realistically be the crack detective that he portrays - and you ache to watch his tragic decisions and experiences. The ending is very sad and highly unexpected.

Transcendence (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0471030/

Very disappointing. The story has potential (although parts of it are stolen from The Machine) but founders all over the place, with unrealistic time lines and events. Johnny Depp is good, and plays well the warm but cold machine version of his character, layering love and malevolence such that you  share his wife's struggles to understand and live with this upgraded version of her life. The other characters are mostly wasted, and the final resolution of the story is nonsensical. And mostly, it was just boring.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1877832/

For me, not the greatest entry in this series, however I'm challenged to remember all of the entries in this series or the order in which they came out, and this time travelling story does not help me. The story is a bit of The Terminator - go back in time and change just one thing so that the future is changed. But it misses the other time travel rule - most things must remain exactly the same or other things might change as well; this story just kinds of skips that. Jennifer Lawrence is mostly unrecognizable in her blue latex, which is good because I'd much rather see her doing better stuff. Basically, this is a standard summer blockbuster, with lots of familiar faces, effects attempting to be impressive, and a story that in the long term will appeal only to hard-core X-Men fans who know and understand the characters better than someone like me who only sees them once a year.

Rob the Mob (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2481480/

Very well done. The film captures the period well, and the leads are surprisingly good, especially Nina Arianda. Wish I could say the same for Andy Garcia, who mumbles his way through as an extremely quiet Mafia don with a heart of dented tin. The story focuses on the young couple brashly pushing the mob around, and you really want them to get away with it, as they recognize (too late, sadly) the limited life span in such a career.

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1714915/

Beautiful to watch in a gruesome kind of way, this vampire love story looks at the modern day challenges of being a vampire - getting food that is "clean", international travel (avoiding day time), boredom due to longevity, maintaining anonymity in a wired world - in a beautiful and occasionally funny way. Their problems are not that different from the rest of us "zombies". There is real chemistry between Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton (who make the most fabulous looking vampires) and the other characters are surprising and entertaining (although Christopher Marlowe was a bit much).

Red Road (2006)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0471030/

An interesting tale of truth and reconciliation, but with a few plot and technical holes. Good performances from all, developing empathy for characters you normally wouldn't like.

Dossier K (2009)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1286784/

A well done police thriller, although feels a bit like a made for tv movie. 

A Million Ways to Die in the West (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2557490/

Horrible unfunny comedy. This kind of movie is just not my kind of thing, but I know that the toilet humor and ridiculous situations appeal to enough that they keep making them. It is surprising to me the calibre of actors that appear in these films lately - here, Charlize Theron (the movie's only redeeming character and performance) and Liam Neeson show up quite jarringly in this extended and unfunny SNL sketch - so these movies either pay very well or are part of some penance clause in contracts. Otherwise they are just embarrassing outliers on the filmographies of good actors. I guess everyone makes mistakes in their work. 

Neighbors (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2004420/

Tremendously, fantastically bad. Really really awful. 

Calvary (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2234003/

Interesting mix of comedy and tragedy with great Irish accents. Excellent cast and very funny sidebar stories.

Tim's Vermeer (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3089388/

Fascinating investigation into the optical tools (likely) used by Vermeer to achieve his remarkable verisimilitude. The detail of the efforts by Tim to recreate the conditions and the painting result in a convincing case for the camera obscura, and for the merging of technology and art centuries before the photography or the computer. Great film. 

After (2012)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1799508/

An interesting people in a coma story, very well done. The leads are excellent, and the story is well told and paced, with just a few holes due to the low budget nature of the movie.

13 Sins (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2059171/

An interesting story not very well told. An ongoing "game" offers out of luck folks a chance to clear debts and get rich if they do 13 challenges, each riskier and harder than the last. The movie could have been much better - I bet the Korean version is.

Tracks (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2167266/

Beautifully told story of a woman's epic journey across Australia. Mia Wasikowski is excellent as Robyn Davidson, empathetic but not very likable. A bit disappointing that the story was changed from the original, unnecessarily so. Lovely to watch, and very enjoyable.

The Returned (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2093270/

Remarkably good Canadian-made zombie movie (never thought I'd say that). Interesting twist on the genre, looking at those with the disease under control as a threat and the science unable to keep up with them. Excellent performance, good story and dialogue, well paced and well told. 

Walk of Shame (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2463288/

Elizabeth Banks does a great impression of Jenny McCarthy in this below average drunk girl comedy. A waste of James Marsden here - he could do much better.

Contracted (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2281159/

Quite terrible. Interesting idea - STD as the start of the zombie apocalypse - but poorly executed in this low budget gross-fest.

The Machine (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2317225

A well-done low budget AI thriller, with some nice personal touches in the story. Initially looking like a combination of The Matrix and Robocop, the story brings in the interesting question: what does "alive" really mean? The leads are excellent, and their chemistry is palpable and a key success in the film. The bad guy is not really evil enough to be believable, and so the films climax suffers from a lacklustre climax. The notion of language and communication is also interesting here, as the "machines" are perceived to be mute when in fact they communicate more directly and clearly than their masters. Overall, very good.

Joe (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2382396/

A boy-story, with a young man finding an unlikely mentor and hero in a violent but compassionate ex-con. Nicolas Cage is surprisingly good in this title role (although much of the grunting and shouting in the dialogue seems perfectly in line with his most recent other roles) and there is good and believable chemistry between him and others. Tye Sheridan as the boy is excellent, but is potentially being typecast in the troubled-young-man-finds-unlikely-mentor role (see the excellent Mud (2012) and a similar pattern for his co-star from there). Overall, this film and story feel like well-worn territory, but this iteration is pretty good.

The Double (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1825157/

Another doppelgänger tale, based on a different novel than "Enemy" but exploring some of the same territory, this film takes a black-comedy approach to the material and puts the malevolence of the 'evil' twin more explicitly in the face of the other half. Ultimately, the resolution becomes the same - they can't co-exist and so neither can survive. Jesse Eisenberg is excellent in both lead roles, moving quite seamlessly from schmuck to bastard and back again. The story elements involving the romance(s) felt derivative of Dead Ringers (1988) or even Roxanne (1987) (especially the restaurant scene with the hidden microphone), so didn't work as well for me. Overall, I enjoyed it and found the same level of existential uncertainty from both stories.

Enemy (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2316411/

Good creepy tale of doppelgänger-ism. Jake Gyllenhaal is brilliant as the two men sharing a face, with both the despair of one and the aggression of the other, and their mutual and individual existential angst, coming through clearly and believably. The spider symbolism throughout is interesting and disconcerting, adding a sense of malevolence and discomfort throughout. The film uses visual cues and clues well, creating an environment of otherness within the familiar landscapes.

The Bag Man (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2212008/

Deserves to be buried in the titular bag and not heard from again. What were these people thinking when making this mess?

Blue Ruin (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2359024

A well-done violent vengeance story, with great performances, dialogue and filming. A few plot holes, but nothing to ruin it. An atypical ending caps off this atypical story well. A nice surprise and very enjoyable.

Nut Job (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1821658

A cute little tale about squirrels, nuts and capers with their other critter friends and a crew of bank robbers. Thankfully, it's not a musical.

A Patriotic Man (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2343585

Interesting little tale about doping in sports. A man with a unique blood type is recruited to support his national ski team through regular transfusions to the star athlete. Things go awry, the man gets drunk and then beat-up (in the most surreal casting of all time: Canadian doping legend Ben Johnson as the cab driver), ultimately giving up his transfusion career.

Virus Fukatsu (1980)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080768/

Very well done movie for its time, and highly relevant today. A bioterrorism accident leads to devastation of mankind, stranding a small population of researchers and soldiers in Antarctica. These remaining humans set about repopulating and then have to deal with the mutual assured destruction of the leftover nuclear arsenals. Good stories and subplots amidst the general horrors of man on earth.

How to Lose Friends and Alienate People (2008)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0455538

Mildly entertaining tale of a fish-out-of-water, in the same comedic vein of previous Simon Pegg movies, just without the zombies (oh wait, there is Megan Fox...). The story is loose and there is little empathy (or even like-ability) established for any of the characters, with few laughs to make the movie worthwhile.

3 Days to Kill (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2172934/

Kevin Costner is returning all over the place these day (see also Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit) as the wise, experienced and still active CIA agent. Here, he finds himself a hit-man pushed to retire, with a terminal illness and an estranged family. Offered a life-line with a hook (by the ridiculously attired Amber Heard), he juggles the classic spy work-life balance while trying to extend his life long enough for one last Christmas. Despite several lame and corny bits of dialogue with Ms Hear, the story is interesting, and the other leads well done. Welcome back, Mr. Costner, as I believe you've found the right niche. 

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1205537

Well done re-reboot of the Jack Ryan series. Chris Pine, already at the helm of the Star Trek reboot, does very well in the lead here, and the other main cast members are also well done; even Keira Knighley, not my favourite most of the time, manages not to annoy me. Also great to see are Kenneth Branagh (in front of and behind the camera) and Mikhail Barishnikov (uncredited so watch closely). The story is taut, believable and current, effectively bringing the characters and stories into the 21st century. Much like the Bourne series, this one looks to be enjoyable.

Straightheads (2007)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0480011

AKA Closure. Violent and somewhat unrealistic story about revenge and recovery. Good performances undermined by bad dialogue and contrived situations. 

Robocop (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1234721

A decent remake. Where the original had a campy appeal, this new version is slick and actually somewhat believable, with update technology and much better acting.

A Three-fer: the Paradise Lost trilogy (1996-2012)

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117293/
Paradise Lost 2: Revelations http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0239894/
Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2028530/

These excellent documentaries cover the West Memphis Three saga - three boys convicted (wrongly, as it turns out) for the murders of three other boys in 1993. The first and third films are the best, but the entire series is worth watching to get to know the people involved in the story.

The first film is extraordinary for its access to the people and material - unprecedented footage from the crime scene, the families, the courtroom and the suspects, including the lawyers conferences and meetings with their clients. Like any documentary film, it is not without bias, but it makes a compelling case for the defence.

The second film is necessary but not as compelling, ostensibly covering one of the many appeal hearings (but lacking the extraordinary access afforded to the first film) and taking the opportunity to revisit the scenes and some of the families. This instalment focuses too much IMHO on the one outspoken father, but covers some interesting interactions between him and the activist group working to free the boys.

The third film is perhaps the best (and if you only watch one, this should be it). This film covers the nearly 20-year history of the crime and the case, and catches up once more with the key players in the story. The filming is slicker than the first two - likely HBO at last realized they were on to something - and the access to people and locations, including the courtrooms, it back, providing the drama that was missing in the second film. The film concludes this story well, with the unfortunate acknowledgement that the case remains unsolved.

An interesting element that these films touch on but obviously can't investigate on their own is the influence of the film making on the events themselves. It is clear in all films that many of the people spoke and acted differently than they perhaps might have if there were no cameras on them. Would any of this have been different without the presence and investigations of the filmmakers? Clearly the films played a significant role in raising questions about and interest in the case; the activist groups point directly to their viewing of the first film as their impetus for getting involved. The question of, does study of an event change that event, is something that will likely continue.

The Railway Man (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2058107/

This was a good story given short shrift in this film. The male performances were all very good, and they did a great job casting the characters to match their real-life counterparts; however, I did feel Nicole Kidman was very weak in the role of Patti. The story and message of reconciliation are poignant, but the time period is much better represented in Empire of the Sun (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092965/) and the theme of reconciliation more completely told in Five Minutes of Heaven (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1238291/?ref_=nm_flmg_act_32).

The Veteran (2011)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1653700/?ref_=nv_sr_1

A well-done little thriller. The main character is complex, sympathetic and very well portrayed by Toby Kebbell. The story blends the modern day troubles of unemployment, youth violence and homeland terrorism with the issues of returning modern-day veterans in a way that is both believable and enjoyable. The action is very well paced, no violence for the sake of it. Not exactly heart-warming, but a good film.

Bad Country (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2350892/

Bad, very bad. The story is all over the place, you don't care about or root for any of the characters, the dialogue is terrible and the action ridiculous. Enough said.

Snowpiercer (2014)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowpiercer

Interesting "what if" fantasy about man made climate actually coming true with dramatic effect. And justt 17 years later, a seemingly major train drives all over the world on a global railroad. The focus is mostly on the hierarchical society that has arisen on the train, and revolution and the people atnthe bak want...what? Of course, what the poeole have up front. Lots of talk about symbiosis and closed ecosystem, which maybe no onen explained in the brochure. Ultimaely shades of The Matrix or Brave New World appear, I think to take your mind off the silly idea that this seemingly endless train can go for ever. I'm betting that an all Korean cast wold hp have done better - not the acting necessarily as that was pretty good where all concerned - at bringing out the pathos, bleakness and humor thoughout this, far better than the ROW did.

Oscar picks for 2013

http://www.cbc.ca/news2/interactives/oscars-ballot2014/index.html?picks=1d2b3d4b5e6b7b8b9b10a12b11c13b15e14e17c18e16c21a20b19a22e23c24a

I find the critics' fawning adulation of "The Wolf of Wall Street" utterly baffling. I did not see any of the moral take on the price of hedonism, and I can remember no instance of "velvet glove subtlety" anywhere in the film. Rather it was a overlong and poorly done attempt at quasi-docudrama-satire that ultimately felt like a prequel to "The Hangover", but without any of the comedy or good looking men. 

I'm reminded of my similar bewilderment a few years ago, when "everyone" thought that "Mystic River" was the greatest movie of the year - another one that mystified me, as I found that movie plodding and obvious, with ridiculous caricatures and characters and dialogue. I remain convinced that Marcia Gay Harden won the supporting actor Oscar primarily because her character in the film was the only one that made any sense.

Adult World (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1067765/

Cute little story, and so good to see John Cusack back and excellent as always. A nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Tangled (2010)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0398286/

The remarkable animation in this one makes it very much worth watching, if you can endure all of the songs (there seem to be an awful lot of these, and they don't all weave in well with the story). This telling of Rapunzel has some clever elements, but is also a bit scary for kids, so overall I think it misses its mark as adults likely find it too juvenile.

Dorothy Mills (2008)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1034306/

A spooky little thriller set on a foggy and isolated island off the coast of Ireland. The story effectively combines ghosts and madness, and makes for a creepy movie. Good performances overcome the gaps in the script.

Seventh Continent (1989)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098327/

Very strange. The first 2/3 is the epitome of mundane and then gets weird. Apparently based on a true story, this film is unsettling and only somewhat engaging. From the same fellow who brought us Funny Games (not the American one) and Cache, so no surprise really.

Filth (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1450321/

Strangely enjoyable, if a bit hard to watch at times. The depths of depravity are pretty...well, deep. But the portrayal of anguish and pain, self-loathing and contempt, by MacAvoy is exquisite in its madness and horror. The comeuppance and conclusion are equally twisted, with just a hint of redemption. Well done. Great soundtrack, too.

The White Tiger (2012)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2318405/

An okay film about Russians in WWII searching for a mysterious German tank. The battle scenes are excellent, if a bit too long, and the acting is very good. The ending is weird and unsatisfactory, with the confessions of Adolf's ghost and the crazy tank driver disappearing into the woods. Strange and mildly entertaining but a bit too long.

Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1951264/

A good continuation from part one, and very true to the book, but I still cannot suspend my disbelief about the age of the characters. Jennifer Lawrence is a far cry from 16, and really so is Katniss. Interesting to see so many big names in this, so clearly the franchise has legs (with another two movies to follow, there is still lots of money to be made here).

Last Vegas (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1204975/

I was afraid this would be as bad as Stand-up Guys, but it wasn't. A bit like The Hangover meets The Bucket List, complete with Viagra jokes. Michael Douglas looks unbelievably shiny. The central plot is a bit ham-handed, but otherwise an enjoyable light comedy.

Paranoia (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1413495/

Really not very good. Mediocre performances, a lame plot, and terrible dialogue. Too bad, as the premise of industrial espionage has such promise, but I've yet to see it done well.

Gravity (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1454468/

Wow - spectacular effects and a great suspenseful story. Likely worth seeing in the theatre (and in 3D), but even on a small screen it was a gripping and exciting movie. A few scientific flaws (likely many more, but I'm not a space expert) but nothing so distracting as to make it unenjoyable. Highly recommend this one.

Her (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1798709/

An interesting modern day romance, taking our immersion in social media and online relationships to the extreme. The romance between Theodore and Samantha feels very real, especially when they argue, but starts to feel contrived when her artificial intelligence moves far beyond his comprehension and then further beyond the boundaries of her electronic world. The plot is interesting but ultimately unsatisfying, as the artifice has too many unexplored dimensions.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0993846/

A 3-hour version of The Hangover, minus the comedy, music and good looking men. The bad scenes just go on and on, and then just a little bit more. Painfully boring, unbelievably stupid, and not even nice to look at. Martin Scorsese should hang his head in shame. Leo too. 

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0359950/

This movie was pretty good, but really has nothing to do with the Walter Mitty story; other than the first part of the film where he drifts off into fantasy occasionally, this Walter is less Mitty and more Indiana Jones. Aside from the lack of literary connection, the story is very engaging and told well. The "end of Life" story thread is a bit overdone, while some other threads (ex. how does his mom know the photographer?) are left irritatingly unaddressed. The only real Mittyesque element is Ben Stiller - he doesn't bring anything startling or special to the role, so in a likely unintentional way, embodies the anyman/everyman character perfectly.

Inequality for All (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215151/

Carrying on from The Corporation, Inside Job, and The Smartest Guys in the Room, this smart documentary gives an insider's perspective on how the 1%-ers got there and what they're up to. The day is interesting and well presented, but strangely it doesn't feel as revelatory or shocking as the earlier entries in this canon. Still, a quiet call to action or smart reminder to keep paying attention is not unwelcome. A particular interesting point was the confluence of the outrage of the Occupy Movement and the Tea Party, both initiated by the 2007 recession. Both driven to rally and yell at one another about the same thing: the influence of government on the economy. Also interesting to me was the commentary about unions and their relevancy and importance in today's economy.

Happy People: A Year in the Taiga (2010)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1683876/

Classic Werner Herzog. An odd slice of life from the edge of civilization, this look at the lives of trappers in Siberia is engaging and interesting, with not too much detail. The dialogue comes almost entirely from the trappers, but much more is told from the visuals and the movement through the seasons and along the river. Most impressive - the dog who runs 150kms in a day and half. Not as impressive as Dick Proenneke, but still a very hardy group living very hard lives.

Don Jon (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2229499/?ref_=nv_sr_1

A very well done tour-de-force from Joseph Gordon-Levitt. While the subject matter (online porn) and the setting (Jersey shore - ugh, those accents) may be off-putting to some, the story is well-crafted and told with poignancy and good humour. The cast is excellent, the dialogue good and snappy, and the setting and score bring together all elements nicely to tell a nice tale about really growing up.

Drinking Buddies (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2265398/?ref_=nv_sr_1

A summer romance/friendship story that is smart, warm and funny, with excellent performances and a delightful ending. The romantic tension is great, and the relationship issues will be recognizable for anyone who's been through the struggle of do-we-or-don't-we romance with a good friend.

Captain Phillips (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1535109/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Surprising compelling thriller, this is Tom Hanks at his best - an ordinary man demonstrating ingenuity and humanity in extraordinary circumstances. For much of the film, you are waiting for things to happen, but as the ending draws near you realize things have been happening - you are involved, engaged, on the edge of your seat without any of the usual movie trappings. As the climax occurs, you feel the release of tension and the burst of emotions from characters and audience are authentic and cathartic. Tom Hanks for Best Actor nomination - guaranteed. This film is worth watching for that climax and release, and for the brilliant performance of Hanks, reminding us why is is one of the greats.

Europa Report (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2051879/?ref_=nv_sr_2

An interested "found footage" movie, with shades of The Abyss and Alien, this space exploration story is very well done. Tense, well acted, and beautifully shot and told, it is unfortunate that this film did not garner a bigger audience. Exceptional players include Anamaria Marinca in the lead role, and Michael Nyqvist as one of the scientists on the expedition. A good counterpoint to Gravity (2013).

Blue Jasmine (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2334873/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Saved up for a birthday treat for myself, this film did not disappoint. Woody Allen proves again that he can write and portray complex characters with the best combinations of pathos, comedy and tragedy, even miles away from the beloved New York streets that have served him well. While Jasmine is not a person anyone would want to know or love, she embodies elements that we can all recognize and empathize with, even if we don't like it. The surprise twist only complicates your feelings towards her, and the ending leaves you with enough space to consider multiple futures for everyone. An excellent addition to the Woody Allen canon, and a breathtaking performance from Cate Blanchett.

The Hunt (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2106476/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Well done story about a scary subject - a teacher wrongfully accused of sexually abusing a young girl. All of the things you imagine would happen do, and the pain endured by everyone is excruciating and heart-wrenching. The miracle of the story is the final resolution, which is made tragic, lovely and believable in this film. Wonderful performance by often overlooked Mads Mikkelsen. A fine example of wonderful filmmaking from outside of Hollywood.

Mud (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1935179/?ref_=nv_sr_3

It would be easy to dismiss this as a summer-boys-movie, but the the additional complications of love story and bounty hunters make this a great drama. Matthew McConaughey is exceptional here, as the mysterious man on the island. The boys' discovery of him and their adventures with and for him, while they search for love and life, are enthralling and enjoyable. The atmosphere of the location - one of those expansive yet closed in areas along the Mississippi - combines with the various threads of the story to make a film that succeeds on many levels.

Ain't Them Bodies Saints (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2388637/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Beautifully told fable about love and fate in a dusty midwest small town. The cast is exceptional here, and although the story itself has some holes, the drama is compelling and the story taught right through to the end. The film may be a bit arty for some, as the setting is both familiar and non-descript and many details are left untold or unexplained, but overall it is a lovely tragic tale of love, loss and near-redemption.

The Spectacular Now (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1714206/?ref_=nv_sr_1

A modern day "Say Anything", this is a nice little story about high school misfits, first loves and first times, and growing up. The actors are great, and the story is both compelling and troubling (a surprising amount of drinking goes on - but perhaps I'm naive in thinking this is unusual?) enough to engage you from start to finish. True love prevails, which is lovely. Recommended companion piece: The Kings of Summer (2013).

Prisoners (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1392214/?ref_=nv_sr_1

A taught mystery with great performances all round. The twists and reveals in the story are very well done, and resolution is very satisfying. The best is Jake Gyllenhaal as the detective, the dedicated and caring cop with clearly more troubles in his past than he's willing or able to reveal, his balance of passion and procedure are compelling and very well done. Hugh Jackman as the father of one of the missing girls is good but often pathetic and unsympathetic in his recklessness and abuse of the police; perhaps all of his actions are a plausible response to the situation, but I felt neither support nor sympathy for him, and much more compassion for the victim of his rage than I did for him as the victim himself. A good popcorn movie for a dark, rainy evening.

Out of the Furnace (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1206543/

I wanted to like this movie, but eventually everything about it - the characters, the story, the ending - were predictable and not very likeable. The penultimate actions - the murders of the brother and friend - are completely pointless, and so the final act of the story feels contrived and silly. The romantic sidebar is similarly ridiculous, providing nothing to the movie other than a role of some kind for Forrest Whitaker. Not very good at all.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1170358/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Make it stop, already. While a lovely and detailed presentation of this beloved story, it is also artless and tedious, dragging out meaningless conversation, extending battle and action scenes and showing countless overhead panoramas of the group trekking through, over or across more of New Zealand's lovely lands. Boring.

Open Grave (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2071550/

A clever little thriller. With several twists and turns in the story, and the puzzle of one character who doesn't speak, this story includes elements of zombie stories, slasher movies, and complex mysteries. Excellent performances from the ensemble, especially Sharlto Copley in the lead, a tight script and well done visuals and effects, keep you engaged and on the edge right through.

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0790636/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Performances - and transformances - by Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto are at the centre of this movie, and both are excellent but neither rescues the story from tv-movie-of-the-week ordinariness. Intended to be a character study of Ron Woodruff, a roughneck good-old-boy who finds himself on the front line of the war on AIDS in the mid-80s, there is little learned about him or his strange compatriots and certainly nothing about his motivations or expectations. His transition from cowboy to crusader, from hardass to hero, is never explained, nor are any of his close relationships. Jennifer Garner was unbelievable (not in a good way) as the doctor, and the rest of the characters were too typical - evil drug company executives, heartless agents, greedy doctors - to be believable. Again, the physical transformations and performances by McConaughey and Leto are outstanding, but insufficient in this poorly told tale.

Rush (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1979320/

Sometime over the past few years, we've watched a few high-speed documentaries (excellent examples are Senna (2010) and TT3D: Closer to the Edge (2011)). While Rush had the potential to equal those, it somehow fell flat. The story of the rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda was deftly handly by the story and the actors, but the tension between them never translated onto the racetrack in the film; just when things start getting good, the chemistry fizzled like a race cancelled due to rain, undermined by lacklustre cinematography and score. Kudos to the casting directors, as the characterizations of the main and other players was exceptional. Overall, disappointing to see the excitement of racing made boring.

All Is Lost (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2017038/

This is man-vs-nature (or man-vs-himself?), with the main man himself, Robert Redford. With no backstory, or real conclusion either, the story is bounded only by the horizons of the ocean that we can see from just above sea-level. Wrecked in the middle of nowhere, he seems both seasoned and ill-prepared at the same time, with the appearance and demeanour of the old-man-at-sea but taken down by one catastrophe after another. As he moves through vexation through frustration to despair, you're often wondering how or why he ended up here, but you're really not that interested, unfortunately. Be it a vision-quest, a mid-life crisis, or a self-imposed exile for penance, you're never really compelled root for any side of the vs., and the ultimate resolution is unsatisfactory and uninteresting.

American Hustle (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1800241/

I had high hopes for this one, and so was a bit disappointed. The Abscam story in the background of this provides an environment for a smaller story about the people involved in and affected by the greed, corruption and confusion of the times. The main characters are mostly well done, and the reflection, through music, costumes, and sets, of the mood and style of the late 70s is impressive. Some of the minor characters are too one dimensional (the exception being Jeremy Renner, somewhat unrecognizable as the Mayor) and the lapses into comedy in the story are distracting. Jennifer Lawrence is excellent, even if her Jersey accent lapses too often to make her fully believable), but even better is Amy Adams as the brilliant con-woman Sydney Prosser/Edith Greensly. Adams' fully realized portrayal is wonderful, and provides the emotional centre for the story. But ultimately, the story falls flat, despite the truth of it.

More Than Honey (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2263058/

A nice little documentary, with fantastic images and interesting information about these winged matchmakers. The information is far from complete - a passing reference to Colony Collapse Disorder is given no further explanation - and the connections between the various location is obscure: other than the fact that they have something to do with bees, the folks shown in Switzerland, Germany, California, Texas, Australia and China are all interesting but separate, and incomplete (there is no background information given about any of the participants). Spotty facts aside, the film is interesting and visually spectacular. The ending seems to be allegorical - bees as supernatural or mythical creatures, whose mysteries are beyond us.

Saving Mr. Banks (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2140373/

A nice film, with just a few flaws, nothing too horrible but enough to keep it from greatness. The story of the realization of the movie musical Mary Poppins by Walt Disney, the story pits Walt (Tom Hanks) against PT Travers (Emma Thompson) in a battle over story rights, frivolous songs and dancing penguins. A key requirement for getting and enjoying this film is to be familiar with the other - if you have neither seen nor know anything about Mary Poppins, this film will be mostly meaningless to you. If you are a fan of Mary's, this film should be delightful. The only parts that let the film down are the flashbacks to Travers' childhood in Australia. While an integral part of the story, this portion of the movie is poorly done. The characters are not given much depth and are more caricatures - the drunken father (in a role that would seem tailor-made for him, Colin Farrell founders), the mother used to better things, the daughter under the spell of her fantastic dad, even the bright golden glow of Australia seems overdone. The better parts are in California, where Travers' hostility is eventually charmed by Disney and his crew of merry (or Mary) makers, complete with the Hollywood last-ditch impassioned "trust me with her" speech that finally completes the transaction. The rest is history. While nothing particularly exceptional here, Hanks and Thompson, along with all of the Hollywood cast, are all great. Too bad about the stuff from Downunder, which undermines the great with the mediocre.

Lone Survivor (2013)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1091191/

A surprise for me - I really liked this. I was expecting fluff, but instead this is riveting and raw. The story is based on truth - a single survivor of a failed mission in Afghanistan. The delivery of the story is excellent. The characters are real and complete, and there is no shying away from the harsh realities and complexities of the mission and situations. Best segment is Act III - the battle in the forest. The heroic actions of the soldiers for their mission and for each other portray the significant agony and strength of these men against overwhelming odds. I think this film is on par (and even better in some aspects) than other recent films such as Zero Dark Thirty.