The buzz on the low-budget independent drama Short Term 12, has been building steadily since the film won the SXSW Grand Jury Feature Award and Audience Award earlier in the year. Sometimes these titles end up disappointing when released outside…
The summer movie season has come to an end. And, like any other season, it was filled with hits and misses. So, it’s time to take stock of some of these releases. I’m not assessing the quality of the titles.…
The new film Closed Circuit attempts a modern update of the conspiracy thrillers of the 70’s. It’s a valiant effort and features an accomplished and effective cast, but the plot lacks a sense of excitement and mystery. Sadly, instead of…
Over the years, there have been several retellings of “Pride and Prejudice”. And thanks to a significant other who enjoys filmic adaptations of Jane Austen, I’ve seen many more than I would have otherwise sought out. The latest, “Austenland,” attempts…
Fans of cult film director Edgar Wright have been patiently waiting for the finale of what the moviemaker describes as his Cornetto trilogy. For those who aren’t aware of his other reference-heavy comedic installments, “Shaun of the Dead” riffed on…
Want to see something really scary? Looking for movie that in spite of its low-budget aims high, and proverbially (as well as literally) hits the bullseye? Independently produced for under $1 million dollars, “You’re Next” is, frankly, among the most…
“Kick-Ass” attempted to tell the story of a wannabe superhero testing his mettle in the real world, adding some grim black humor into the mix. It was far from perfect, but it was still an interesting and different spin on…
As far as I understand it, the word paranoia refers to an irrational state involving intense fear and panic, often involving fantasies of persecution. Oddly enough, while there are a few brief moments of fright and tension for the lead…
It can certainly be tough to make the transition from independent to studio films. With “Elysium,” director Neill Blomkamp (District 9) has managed to maintain a tone and style similar to his previous hit. However, there is still a bit…
Though it may come as a surprise, 2010’s “Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief” was a solid box office performer. At least it was internationally and on DVD; the flick’s combined worldwide and home video grosses were almost three times…