Films: July 15 - 21

The Phantom Of The Open (2022) 

Beckett (2021) 

Phantom Lady (1944)

Supernova (2000) 

Duóguàn (Leap) (2020)

Madeleine Collins (2021)

Devil's Doorway (1950) ///

The Phantom Of The Open (2022) Modestly stated perennial underdog story sustains adroit balance of comedy and drama as crane operator Mark Rylance sets record for worst round at The Open but continues golfing dream. Acute sense of period and rounded performances, though some stylized visuals break spell.

Beckett (2021) After girlfriend Alicia Vikander dies in car accident, unnerved John David Washington finds himself expendable part of political conspiracy and on the run across Greece. Distanced approach and obtusely minimal plotting defined with distinct seventies styling that intrigues rather than excites.

Phantom Lady (1944) After Alan Curtis is accused of murdering his wife, his only alibi is a woman who other witnesses deny even existed. Dark visuals infused with evocative threat and suitably off-kilter angles, as assistant Ella Raines determines to prove his innocence. Intense jazz and playfully bleak.

Supernova (2000) Dark sci-fi sheen and pacy action maintain momentum even as ambition of elevated themes collide with B-movie exposition. Wary Angela Bassett and confident James Spader are among space ship crew endangered by rescued Peter Facinelli and alien matter. Little suspense or originality.

Duóguàn (Leap) (2020) Strong visual design conjures period feel and seamlessly recreates Chinese women's volleyball triumphs over four decades. Athletically realized training and pivotal games, yet narrative remains diffused and characters undefined within patriotically defined strictures.

Madeleine Collins (2021) Confounding, conflicted Virginie Efira lives between France and Switzerland, increasingly agitated by deceptively maintaining two separate family homes. Though strained by coincidence, central performance anchors drama as intense stress builds with edgy revelations.

Devil's Doorway (1950) Striking visuals and dynamic telling, as hero Robert Taylor returns home after fighting for the Union during Civil War only to find racism and prejudice against his native tribe. Solid cast captures sharp characters amid propulsive action that highlights themes and presages dark tragedy.