Lady Bird (2017)
Valkyrie (2008)
The Paleface (1948)
Reminiscence (2021)
The Whistleblower (2010)
Highwaymen (2004)
Deadfall (2012) ///
Lady Bird (2017) Generously told, sharply detailed portrait of family life as curious Saoirse Ronan navigates final school year school and spars with controlling mother Laurie Metcalf. Vivid sense of community illuminated by warm performances, genial observation, and acute emotion.
Valkyrie (2008) Solid wartime thriller builds tension through situation and character with resolute Tom Cruise and stalwart British actors making plans to assassinate Hitler. Engrossing detail and robust visuals tied to tight narrative rhythms ensures a polished production.
The Paleface (1948) After stuttering plot mechanics, comic momentum builds through fearless Jane Russell's manipulation of innocent dentist Bob Hope as they join wagon train and track down gun smugglers. Colorful production, spoofed stereotypes, spirited physical and verbal comedy.
Reminiscence (2021) Intriguingly established future provides waterlogged Miami and tech that allows people to tap into memories. Unfortunately, despite glossy style, Hugh Jackman's noir descent into obsession for bruised nightclub singer Rebecca Ferguson remains a patchwork of better stories.
The Whistleblower (2010) Exploitation of women in 90s Bosnian sex-trafficking ring, ignored and abused by international peacekeepers and UN, seen through eyes of hurting Rachel Weisz as she battles authority threats. Tone hits uneasy balance, unflinching in visuals and performance, engulfed by grim despair.
Highwaymen (2004) Muscular opening sequences feature shock killing to establish Jim Caviezel's revenge momentum and bloody tunnel pile-up to leave Rhona Mitra as survivor and bait for the psychopath. Stripped bare of plot and character, accomplished car action can't salvage unconvincing exposition.
Deadfall (2012) Twisted family dynamics inform noirish fall for ex-boxer and ex-con Charlie Hunnam as well unhinged sibling robbers Olivia Wilde and Eric Bana. Unfolding violence in icy wilderness drags in father and daughter cops and solid parents Sissy Spacek and Kris Kristofferson. Solid technique but drama never bites.
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