I am not sure what I was up to in 1988 that I missed Operation Breakthrough; the effort to free gray whales trapped under the ice in Alaska. I don’t even recall the 1989 book Freeing the Whales by Tom Rose which covered the event. But it will be a long time before I forget the new, heart moving, family film, BIG MIRACLE which also tells this amazing story of the people who joined forces and put aside differences in order to save some wonderful mammals. (more)

It feels odd to mention a film about wolves and not have teenagers screaming “Go Team Jacob” in the background. The new adult thriller THE GREY has an abundance of wolves, a survivor premise, and enough edge-of-your-seat moments to make it a decent viewing. But only barely. Many of the intended life examining moments get lost in a conglomerate of strong language and unoriginal scenarios. (more)

Glenn Close co-wrote the screenplay and stars in the adult drama, ALBERT NOBBS. This film is a touching and beautifully created story with superb acting and fantastic makeup and art design. The cast is perfectly chosen and each delivers just the right amount of substance to add polish to the title character. What could have been a very heavy-handed attempt at emotional drama comes across here as light and at times whimsical; in spite of its sensitive premise. (more)

Meryl Streep may be the prime minister of actresses, a fact which few can deny, but she is still unable to salvage all the troubles with THE IRON LADY. This film reminded me a lot of the earlier biopic, J. Edgar. Like that flick, the story was there, the acting award worthy; but the film itself was a bit disjointed. (more)

What if I told you there was a new film out about a movie critic who had to get back in the business to help save a family member in trouble with a Hollywood rep? Not very intriguing right? That is why the new movie CONTRABAND uses drug lords and smugglers as its main focus. Not only is it better suited for action but the premise is a lot more enticing. (more)

WAR HORSE  invades theaters this Christmas Day. Director Steven Spielberg started production on this film right after he saw the stage play saying, “the play made me cry because, the hope that the horse brings to Albert and brings to every human character in the play”. But the key in this film is making the scenes not only stirring and beautiful but keeping the synergy of the story intact. This is certainly the most visually stunning film you will see this holiday season, and maybe the year. (more)

The thing to love about the new Sherlock Holmes film is that it's a whole lot like the first installment. Guy Ritchie uses what worked earlier to make Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows such a fun time at the theater. He didn’t try and reinvent the wheel but instead he just let it roll. From the wit, to the pace to the filming style; all the elements are prevalent here. Love the first one? You will like this one even better. Not a fan of the earlier film? Then don’t expect to find atonement here. (more)

The question rolling around in the back of many heads all year, including my own, was can Rooney Mara pull it off? Can she bring the same intensity to the character of Lisbeth Salander that Noomi Rapace did in the original Swedish film; The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The only way this American version directed by David Fincher is going to succeed is if Rooney delivers. Luckily for all of us she does just that. The film as a whole has some faults but you can’t blame that on Mara. She did her part.

 

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The romantic comedy, NEW YEAR’S EVE, may be just the ticket for this end of year run of films. Not because it is well written, strongly acted, or even remotely creative. In fact it is none of those. In a season when most movies are heavily pushing to be Oscar contenders or award notable films it might be good to have one that simply does what it is meant to do - provide something for those looking for a forgettable time at the theater.

 

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Martin Scorsese doing a 3D film designed to entertain and stir the imagination of young and old alike; and without Leonardo DiCaprio? Meet HUGO. A film full of enchantment, wonderment and a sweet story that will delight just about everyone. I am not sure I have seen a film geared toward kids with as much depth and artistic design.

 

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