The Conversation

The Conversation; After Hackman’s roles in early 70s action films, his buttoned down, subdued & introspective turn in this Coppola helmed examination of mental spirals of conspiracy and detachment, demonstrates how talented he was in even less flashy roles. A slow burn that is haunting to watch; A-

The French Connection

The French Connection; In addition to the highly regarded car chase, there’s foot chases, shakedowns, stakeouts and shoot outs; a constant adrenaline rush buoyed by kinetic acting and gritty filmmaking. A treasure from a special decade of cinema that hits just as hard today; A+

Anora

Anora; Grabs hold of you from the opening frames and takes you on a ride with its tragic protagonist. Kinetic energy propels the film, as its creative force, Baker, elevates each moment through dynamic cinematic touches. Mikey Madison is tantalizingly great, embodying a role like few others could; A

Funny Boy

Funny Boy; An entry into the horrors, of a national civil war, by way of a small and personal struggle. The story telling is intimate, the subject matter compelling. But the pacing can be quite a struggle for some to work through. Good performances by many who service the story; B
 

Bugsy Malone

Bugsy Malone; Either you have a predilection for this sort of thing or you find it appalling. Its kitschy use of children acting like adults wears thin quickly even when it’s executed perfectly. Bit of a hoot, from an era when oddities like this puzzlingly counted as quality family entertainment; C