Films: July 26 - August 1

Adventures In Babysitting (1987)
The Bedroom Window (1987) 
Black Widow (1987) 

Aus dem Nichts (In The Fade) (2017)

Zack And Miri Make A Porno (2008) 

The Replacements (2000) 

The Courier (2020) ///

Adventures In Babysitting (1987) Energetic Elisabeth Shue's journey to rescue stranded friend in downtown Chicago results in generically entertaining comedy action and life lessons. Uneven pacing tends to isolate sequences within rigid structure, though amiable characters persevere.

The Bedroom Window (1987) Studiously adhering to Hitchcockian structure and tone, pliable Steve Guttenberg acts as witness instead of manipulative Isabelle Huppert when resourceful Elizabeth McGovern is attacked. Detail works better than story momentum, involving rather than thrilling.

Black Widow (1987) Darkly subversive characters and themes match sleek, suggestive visuals as frustrated FBI researcher Debra Winger becomes intrigued and tempted by seductive husband killer Theresa Russell. Controlled air of menace edgily maintained with compelling leads despite more mundane conclusion.

Aus dem Nichts (In The Fade) (2017) Suffocating, wrenching portrait of loss, as Diane Kruger's husband and son die in neo-Nazi bombing andlegal frustration provokes need for revenge. With riveting lead, stylish technique conjures striking visuals and brutal sequences, though tone is conflicted.

Zack And Miri Make A Porno (2008) Sweetly raunchy, profanity and situation are bluster for romantic heart as best friends attempt to alleviate poverty by making X-rated Star Wars pastiche, and instead foster oddball family and unexpected love. Appealing performers and swift pace even when gags don't land.

The Replacements (2000) Unsurprising sports comedy benefits from easy cast & loose feel, with Keanu Reeves part of last hope players brought in by seasoned coach Gene Hackman when pro team go on strike. Structure & character adhere to formula, forgotten as copyright notice fades.

The Courier (2020) Until third act magnifies true-life jeopardy for reluctant spy Benedict Cumberbatch, dry tone relies on solidly detailed 60s design and thematic, enveloping Abel Korzeniowski score. Gripping sacrifice portrayed by Merab Ninidze's Russian informant provokes final emotions.