The Fallout

The Fallout; A fine performance by Ortega delivers the complexity needed to explore the odd yet honest connections and reflections from the aftermath of a traumatic event. The film speaks to the horror of everyday that teens have to contend with, while seeking joy and meaning; A-
 

Departures

Departures; Fascinating story about a disillusioned man who unwittingly becomes an encoffiner. The elegance and artful skill of a maligned profession is dutifully explored with some added family melodrama. Insights into a rural cultural practice are intimately interesting; B+

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb; A tour de force from Sellers & Kubrick, aided by an amazing cast, expertly conveys the tone of absurdity that comes with MAD military policy gone wrong. Satire at its finest that may be lost on today’s youth; A

Chop Shop

Chop Shop; A documentary level of realism conveys the life of a seemingly orphaned pair of siblings getting by in the shadow of Shea Stadium. Fascinating glimpse at a life more often thought to be third world, in America’s own backyard. Devastating yet captivating; B+

Heat

Heat; Compelling cat and mouse between Pacino and DeNiro is bolstered by a stellar supporting cast and phenomenal direction. Heists provide a burst of action in between equally explosive relationship scenes. Parallels between cops and criminals are beautifully crafted; A