Jim's Video List 1 Filter: Minimum Score of 7 Or a Special Recommendation

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11/07/20 Jim's Video List 1 Filter: Minimum score of 7 or a special recommendation. This is a non-official, pseudo-scientific list of less-than-obvious movies that I've seen and are worth your viewing time, keeping in mind that I like many different kinds of movies. All ratings are just a quick guide to relative enjoyability and socially redeeming value (if any). Also included are films of suspect social value but which left me really glad I had seen them at least once. What results is a hodge-podge of films that should keep you from taking home a real turkey. Note: Subsections like "CULT" are sorted by year. 123...

 '71 8 Well-crafted action thriller in which a British soldier is separated from Strause, The Brothers (2014) Action / Drama [R] his unit during a street battle in Belfast and must make his way through the labyrinth of city streets and hidden agendas of those he meets.

 10 Cloverfield Lane 8 A unique bit of tense, cross-genre fun as a young woman wakes up in Trachtenberg, Dan (2016) Thriller / Horror a secure bunker, saved from World War III by a survivalist. Maybe. Or [PG-13] maybe it's from something else. Or maybe she's not safe at all. Well, damn.

 10 Items Or Less 7 In this small "day in two lives" comedy-drama, an actor researching a Silberling, Brad (2006) Drama / Comedy [R] part meets a tough but dejected cashier and pushes her along a path on which she was only taking tentative steps. Although weakened a bit by improvised sequences, the dialog is smartly observed.

 10 Things I Hate About You 7 Another enjoyable rom-com helped immensely by its source material Junger, Gil (1999) Romance / Comedy [PG-13] from that "go to" guy for Hollywood scripts, W. Shakespeare.  11:14 8 In a cleverly written tale of karma on a rampage, five interlocking  Marcks, Greg (2003) Thriller [R] stories converge at the time of the title. Well worth the time to watch more than once. Do not watch the trailer.

 12 Angry Men 10 An incomparable examination of both personality types and the way Lumet, Sidney (1957) Drama [NR] that people can delude themselves into thinking they know the truth, in which a juror in an "open and shut" murder case deals with his doubts about the outcome.

 12:01 8 Extremely well-written TV movie about a hapless fellow from human Sholder, Jack (1993) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG-13] resources who gets stuck in the grandaddy of all ruts and must save the world.

 13 Assassins 8 A samurai plans the assassination of a vicious tyrant-in-waiting Miike, Takeshi (2011) Action [R] surrounded by hundreds of bodyguards. An elegantly paced setup leads to a thirty-minute battle of eye-popping directorial prowess from the director of "Audition."

 13 Going On 30 7 On her 13th birthday, a girl with an itch to fill her life with shallow crap Winick, Gary (2004) Comedy / Fantasy [PG-13] gets her wish, but skips right over all the boring parts. Passably entertaining, except for some bad luck in choosing a certain 80's pop idol's music to "revive."

 13 Tzameti 8 A common laborer sees a chance to make serious money, but Babluani, Géla (2005) Thriller / Film Noir [R] "chance" is a concept whose extreme possibilities he discovers in a most horrific way. Not for people who have a low tolerance for high tension.

 13th Warrior, The 7 Michael Crichton's very early retelling of the Beowulf legend as a Crichton, Michael (1999) Fantasy [R] historical swashbucker with fantasy overtones.

 14 Blades 8 A historical action film with a bit of American Western thrown in (not Lee, Daniel (2010) Action [PG-13] to mention a formidable progenitor to Batman's utility belt), this movie has the wire-fu for which the wuxia genre is known, but it does not

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 2 Jim's Video List 123...  14 Blades stand out amid the very seamless fight choreography. With a bit more character and believable romance than the average martial arts film, this is a sturdy example of the genre.

 1408 7 Another Stephen King "hey, it's just evil...okay?" story gets to the Håfström, Mikael (2007) Horror [PG-13] screen, with a lot of solid scares that don't quite add up to any kind of catharsis.

 16 Blocks 7 A soon-to-retire drunk is given a simple task for a police officer: Donner, Richard (2006) Action [PG-13] transport a handcuffed prisoner to court to testify before a grand jury. But he's played by Bruce Willis, so you know things will get exciting.

 1917 9 Although you can find the cuts, this seamlessly unfolding adventure Mendes, Sam (2019) Action [R] puts you squarely in the fear and madness of World War I, as two friends try to warn the front line that they are walking into a trap. Many unexpected turns await them.  2 Brothers and a Bride 8 Two farming brothers left adrift by the death of their mother try to find  Schleppi, Helmut (2003) Comedy [PG-13] a "wife" via Russian dating excursions. Things resolve themselves in ways they don't expect, with ample humor and some great acting by Tim Blake Nelson.

 2 Days in the Valley 7 A moderately successful thriller that owes a bit to "Pulp Fiction" Herzfeld, John (1996) Thriller [R] without being just an imitation.

 20 Feet From Stardom 8 A long overdue recognition of the people, mostly female, who can be Neville, Morgan (2013) Documentary [PG-13] seen to the side, just out of the spotlight focused on music celebrities, yet whose voices are often the very element that makes a hit song so recognizable.

 2046 8 A self-contained continuation of the story told in Wong's "In The Mood Wong, Kar Wai (2005) Drama [R] For Love" about a despondent lover who writes a science fiction story that symbolizes the desire to return to lost memories. Every frame could hang on a wall.

 21 Jump Street 7 The original idea for the TV series is both respected but "modernized" Lord, P & Miller, C (2012) Comedy / Action [R] for fans of Judd Apatow movies, but not without some really inspired surprises along with the way.  24 Hour Party People 8 The story of Tony Wilson and Factory Records, which incubated  Winterbottom, Michael (2002) Comedy / Drama seminal punk and rave groups. Funny, tragic, you know...all of the [R] usual ingredients, but after the entertainment is over, you leave feeling like you understood what it was all about.

 28 Weeks Later 7 As the title implies, this take up a half-year after the "Rage" virus has Fresnadillo, Juan Carlos (2007) Horror [R] wiped out London. Now the last of the infected have died of starvation and the first survivors are returning...now that it's safe. An exciting sequel that begins with a vivid emotional connection that somehow gets lost in the by-the-numbers body count.

 3 Idiots 7 A sort of "Paper Chase" set in an Indian school of engineering, in Hirani, Rajkumar (2009) Comedy / Drama which a a somewhat mysterious new student has a huge impact on [PG-13] two students who befriend him — and a few people who do not. Although it goes for a few too-predictable tugs at one's emotion (and some not so predictable ones), it's a very enjoyable example of Bollywood geared for a world market.

 300 7 The retelling of an actual battle, when 300 Spartans held off a vast Snyder, Zack (2006) Adventure [R] Persian army, filtered through the mind of Frank Miller (Sin City) and depicted in stunning computer graphics. The very polar opposite of a Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 3 123...  300 chick flick, this is definitely a manly man's macho man film that has gathered a rather humorous amount of praise from Republicans (or is it just the loincloths, O closeted ones?).

 3:10 To Yuma 9 A beautifully realized remake of a Western from the post-WW2 "noir" Mangold, James (2007) Action [R] period in which a desparate rancher agrees to escort an outlaw to meet his fate.

 40 Year Old Virgin, The 9 A mixture of very crude humor (usually at the expense of males) and Apatow, Judd (2005) Comedy [R] good-hearted, unexpectedly moral drama as a loser stumbles into a big win.

 42 8 The story of Jackie Robinson's breaking of the color barrier in major Helgeland, Brian (2013) Drama [PG-13] league baseball. Expect some drama!

 50 First Dates 8 Adam Sandler puts away the sophomoric antics (not that she would Segal, Peter (2004) Comedy / Romance [PG-13] remember) to match Drew Barrymore in a satisfying romantic comedy.

 50/50 9 Based on the writer's own life, a young media professional's life is Levine, Jonathan (2011) Drama / Comedy [R] upended by disease, but unexpected strengths in some of those around him set things right in this wise and emotionally real comedy-drama.

 5x2 7 Could also be called "Death of a Marriage Foretold" in which the story Ozon, François (2004) Drama [R] of a relationship is told in reverse. An absorbing character study .

 6th Day, The 7 (2000) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 7 Boxes 8 A boy is promised $100 to transport seven mysterious boxes in a Maneglia, J & Schembori, T (2012) Thriller [R] Paraguayan street market. A high-tension cat-and-mouse game follows, with more than one cat. His task gets more complicated by the minute, and we are treated to a chase movie translated to the human scale of a crowded slum.

 8 1/2 10 A seminal example of post-modern film-making: Fellini, creatively Fellini, Federico (1963) Drama / Comedy [NR] blocked and afraid after the success of La Dolce Vita, makes a film about his attempts to make a film. He manages to capture his own failed relationships with women in the process.

 8 Mile 9 Not being a big rap fan, I didn't know what to expect. What I saw was Hanson, Curtis (2002) Drama [R] an extremely well-written and acted movie about the realities of blue-collar life and the many ways that people seek escape from it. And now I appreciate rap.  8 Women 8 Eight women (from three generations of French cinema goddesses)  Ozon, François (2002) Mystery / Musical [R] and one man (deceased) are trapped in a house where they are forced to reveal their secrets, sometimes with a bit of song and dance. This is a lot of fun. A

 A Better Tomorrow 7 Two brothers take fatefully different paths. Woo, John (1986) Crime

 A Chinese Ghost Story 7 A tax collector falls in love with a ghost while some frightening and Ching, Siu-tung (1987) Fantasy [PG] occasionally funny secondary characters prowl and fight. Good supernatural fun from Hong Kong.

 A.I. - Artificial Intelligence 9 Although overlong, this epic tale of a robotic servant/friend is Spielberg, Steven (2001) Sci-fi [PG-13] absorbing throughout.

 ABCD 7 ABCD "American-born confused desi" and deals with the conflicts of Patel, Krutin (1999) Drama [R] westernized Indians trying to both honor and break away from their traditional culture.

 About a Boy 8 Somewhat unpredictable comedy/drama with Hugh Grant put to Weitz, Chris (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] excellent use.

 About Schmidt 8 A new-retiree goes on the road to find meaning for his apparently Payne, Alexander (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] wasted life. It's not where he's looking for it, but the search generates some painfully funny scenes with his future in-laws and other characters.

 About Time 8 A son is put in a dilemma when his father confides a fantastic family Curtis, Richard (2013) Romance / Comedy [R] secret that might enable him to change the outcome of events in his life.

 Adam's Rib 9 A comedy about a prosecutor and a defense lawyer who share both a Cukor, George (1949) Comedy [G] marital bed and a sensational attempted murder case. Ahead of its time in a number of ways, it manages to poke holes in both sides of the female equality issue.  Adaptation 8 A writer adapts an unfilmable book by making it about his own  Jonze, Spike (2002) Comedy [R] struggle to adapt it. Clever and funny, with an obvious debt to Fellini's "8 1/2."

 Adjustment Bureau, The 7 A fine idea about keeping history rolling along its path (borrowing Nolfi, George (2011) Sci-fi [PG-13] from both Asimov and Fringe) keeps us interested until the very end, when it sort of turns into a chick flick.

 Adrenaline Drive 7 An unexpected mishap at a Yakuza "office" bring together two Yaguchi, Shinobu (1999) Comedy / Crime [UR] less-than-assertive young people along with a pile of cash. Chases, misunderstandings and adventure follows. Although it does not rise to the level of your better adventure/crime/comedies, it's a thoroughly pleasant diversion.

 Adventureland 8 Yes, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig are pretty damned funny, but they Mottola, Greg (2009) Comedy / Drama [R] aren't the main attraction in this detailed and absorbing coming of age story disguised (or at least marketed as) a goofy "American Pie" style teen comedy. A step up from the average level of this genre.

 Adventures in Babysitting 7 A teenager takes a last-minutes babysitting job after an unexpected Columbus, Chris (1987) Comedy [PG-13] turn of events, and then the events keep turning and turning. Nicely done, often very funny entry in the genre that includes "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."

 Adventures of Robin Hood, The 8 With Errol Flynn providing the power source, this is the quintessential Curtiz, M & Keighley, W (1938) Adventure [UR] old Hollywood adventure film.

 After Hours 8 A screwball, but very black comedy about a nondescript office worker Scorsese, Martin (1985) Comedy / Action [R] whose impulse to date a woman he meets in a coffee shop leads him into an existential comedy hell.

 After the Sunset 8 Reasonably entertaining caper movie about a jewel thief who, along Ratner, Brett (2004) Adventure / Comedy with his lover and his FBI nemesis, isn't quite sure he has retired. [PG-13]

 Agent Cody Banks 7 (2003) Adventure [PG]

 Air Force One 7 Unlike the Acting President we fired in 2020, Harrison Ford is the Petersen, Wolfgang (1997) Action [R] Action President.

 Akeelah and the Bee 9 The underdog sports story recast in the cutthroat (I kid you not) world Atchison, Doug (2006) Drama [PG] of the spelling bee, but with some of the usual clichés yanked from the mix. A great film for family discussions.

 Akira 8 A seminal Post-WWIII Sci-Fi w/mental mutants. Based on a Ôtomo, Katsuhiro (1988) Sci-fi [R] Japanese manga.

 Alexander 7 A little long. Stone, Oliver (2004) Adventure [R]

 Alfie 8 This re-make of the original tale of a philandering gadabout works Shyer, Charles (2004) Comedy / Drama [R] pretty well in balancing humor and the drama inherent in the damage he does to himself and others.

 Ali 8 This bio of Mohammed Ali's life, from his first fight through the Mann, Michael (2001) Drama [R] "Rumble in the Jungle," touching on his relationship to the Nation of Islam, draft resistance and woman problems while weaving in enough of the 1960's context to give it all a deeper meaning. Fairly accurate as bios go, most clearly in its very realistic ring scenes and a frightening demonstration of George Foreman's punching power.

 Alice in Wonderland 8 Burton definitely brings the crazy world of Alice to life, with a inventive Burton, Tim (2010) Fantasy [PG] performances from the supporting players. The Jabborwocky may be a bit much for young kids.

 Alien Planet 8 The imagined tale of a robotic mission to a planet orbiting the nearest Lespinois, Pierre De (2005) Sci-fi / Documentary star, with logically developed flora and fauna that manage to definitely [UR] put the "alien" in "alien life form." Probably not appropriate for younger kids due to serious nightmare potential. ALIEN

 Alien 9 The granddaddy of modern claustrophobic, sci-fi horror, transferring Scott, Ridley (1979) Sci-fi / Horror the "mad slasher" concept to a place where the one flaw in it ("Why not just run away you idiot???") isn't possible. The only film of my adult life to give me nightmares.

 Aliens 9 Cameron preserves some of the horror of the original but delivers it in Cameron, James (1986) Sci-fi / Action [R] an adrenalin rush of action and a bit of added humor.

 Alien 3 7 Fans of the series, including Sigourney Weaner, were pissed off to Fincher, David (1992) Sci-fi / Horror [R] find that characters from the critically-acclaimed "Aliens" were written off. Nevertheless, this change of setting to a prison-as-hellscape is a nice change of scenery.

 Alien: Resurrection 7 An unnecessary sequel that still generates some excitement while the Jeunet, Jean-Pierre (1997) Sci-fi / Action [R] director briefly sneaks in some of the bizarre humor that permeates his better work.

 Prometheus 7 Scott returns to the setting of "Alien" for a story that is partly prequel Scott, Ridley (2012) Sci-fi [R] and partly its own new thing. Not totally successful because it seems to be just the beginning of a larger story, but extremely watchable.

 Alien: Covenant 8 A respectable sequel to the earlier movies, combining the horror and Scott, Ridley (2017) Sci-fi / Action [R] action of the first two while maintaining the big picture concepts of its pseudo-prequel, "Prometheus." A

 Alita: Battle Angel 7 A prosthetic surgeon salvaging parts for his poor clientele finds the Zucker, Jerry (2019) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] remnant of an amnesiac girl in the garbage of a floating city. The visual realization is tuly impressive and Alita is a very sympathetic character. However, its two entertaining hours could have included more metaphysical explorations (see: "Ghost in the Shell") and a sorely needed final ass-whupping instead of the obvious lead-in to sequels.

 All About Eve 10 One of the classic scheming woman vs. the established stars movies, Mankiewicz, Joseph L. (1950) Drama [NR] with a buildup to a deliciously apt ending.

 All About My Mother 9 A tragedy launches a woman on a journey back to her past. It's hard Almodóvar, Pedro (1999) Drama / Comedy [R] to believe that so many bad things can happen and still leave you with such a strongly positive feeling.

 All About the Benjamins 8 A badass bounty hunter and his prey team up, very reluctantly, when Bray, Kevin (2002) Crime [R] they get mixed up with even badder jewel thieves. Often hilarious banter mixed with well -staged action scenes.

 Allman Brothers Band: Live At 7 A great band keeps on truckin', but anyone with a copy of "Fillmore Great Woods, The East" will be a bit unsatisfied with just an hour of music. "Statesboro Blues" could not be better, but "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed" seems Pitts, Martin (1982) Documentary [G] sloppy and way too short. But the big sin is committed in the spliced in interviews. To anyone contemplating a concert film: There is only ONE PLACE for interviews with the band: it's called "Special Features."

 Almost Famous 9 Very autobiographical story of a semi-legendary rock Crowe, Cameron (2001) Drama [R] writer-turned-director.

 Almost Human 8 A classic Italian "B" movie that exists comfortably in the continuum Lenzi, Umberto (1974) Crime [R] between the two versions of "Scarface," with an above-average performance by Tomas Milian as a two-bit sociopathic gangster.

 Along Came a Spider 7 Decent thriller about the snatching of a politician's daughter and a Tamahori, Lee (2001) Thriller [R] troubled detective who the kidnapper pulls into the case.

 Amadeus 9 Revenge may be best served cold, but jealosy also make a very chilly Forman, Milos (1984) Drama [R] side dish. A court composer gets upstaged by the obvious genius of a wanton, childlike musician. A heady mix of gorgeous music, off-podium licentiousness and darkly simmering anger. Rating for "Theatrical Cut": PG

 America's Sweethearts 7 This is an amiable love comedy with a few good yucks in it, especially Roth, Joe (2001) Romance / Comedy [PG-13] Billy Crystal's merciless depiction of a publicist, but nothing unexpected happens.

 American Animals 7 This is the story of college students making very bad decisions, Layton, Bart (2018) Crime / Drama [R] hoping to make a fortune from a very valuable library collection. It's interlaced with interviews of the real people, adding a bit of weight to the tale.

 American Hustle 9 Although this is based on an actual and famous sting that happened Russell, David O. (2013) Crime / Comedy [R] in the late 80's, that is really just an excuse to weave a story of two grifters, the people who try to con them into working for them and the question of who is really conning who...and how. Much of the pleasure is derived from watching a set of actors absolutely confound the reputations that preceded them; it manages to be subtly hilarious while building some real tension as truly dangerous people enter the story.

 American Pie 7 (1999) Comedy [R]

 American President, The 8 (1995) Romance [PG-13]  American Psycho 8 A "faceless" upper-class Wall Streeter tries to either create meaning  Harron, Mary (2000) Horror [R] or prove that it is unattainable through his savagely bloody "hobby." The movie leaves you with interesting after-movie (but preferably before dinner) questions about the nature of the psychosis on display and who is a part of it.

 American Sniper 8 Bradley Cooper holds our attention in this tale of a much-praised Eastwood, Clint (2014) Drama [R] sniper who saved the lives of countless troops in Iraq but slowly begins to lose his soul. Eastwood described it as an anti-war movie, which it is, but it may be too subtly done for some, and any movie about an Iraq War hero, no matter now deserving, needs to spend a little more time with the perspective of the Iraqis. Here, the very first kill should raise questions that the movie simply does not address beyond the haunted look in Cooper's eyes.

 American Splendor 10 Based on the autobiography of misanthropic comix writer Harvey Berman, Shari Springer (2003) Comedy [R] Pekar, who narrates and sometimes appears in it. You would never believe that this is an ode to the joys of human relationships, but it is, and it is a genuine joy.  American Werewolf in London, An 8 Both horror and black humor abound in this tale of two Americans  Landis, John (1987) Horror / Comedy [R] who run afoul of supernatural beasts in the English countryside. Would make a good double bill with "Ginger Snaps."

 American, The 8 Although laced with some sometimes unexpectedly brutal violence, Corbijn, Anton (2010) Drama / Thriller [R] this study of an assassin who has "lost his edge" is an exercise in paranoia and the nagging need to touch another human being in someone whose touch is usually deadly. Despite its mounting tension, it is quieter and more reflective than its disingenuous ad campaign suggests.

 Amistad 10 The riveting and sometimes wrenching story of a revolt on a slave Spielberg, Steven (1997) Drama [R] ship and the battle over legal "ownership" that ensues.

 Amores Perros 9 Fiercely involving slice of three lives that literally crash together at an Iñárritu, Alejandro G. (2000) Thriller [R] intersection in Mexico City. It has been compared to "Pulp Fiction," but a grittier and truer sense of moral complexity fills all the corners.

 Amélie 8 Audrey Tatou's introduction to American audiences, in which she Jeunet, Jean-Pierre (2001) Comedy [R] breaks all the clichés about busybodies with charming abandon.

 Analyze This 8 A mobster starts to lose his edge and finds a less-than-willing analyst Ramis, Harold (1999) Comedy [R] to work out his issues. Often hilarious.

 Anatomy of a Murder 8 A serviceman is accused of murdering a man he believes to have Preminger, Otto (1959) Mystery [UR] raped the former's wife.

 Anatomy of Hell 7 In a semi-allegorical story told in the director's clinically explicit style, Breillat, Catherine (2004) Drama [UR] a woman hires a gay man to "watch" her most intimate moments and explore the nature of female sexuality.

 And Then There Were None 9 The classic Agatha Christie novel brought to the screen. You might Clair, René (1945) Mystery [UR] have seen a few other versions of this (!).

 Angel-A 7 A little man on a path to destruction gets some help from a Besson, Luc (2005) Drama [R] mysterious Amazon. Although the concept has been explored more than once before, this well-executed, entertaining version has some twists along the way, a gorgeous view of Paris and a female lead who exudes "superior being" like few others.

 Angela's Ashes 9 Frank McCourt's autobiographical book is brought to the screen with Parker, Alan (1999) Drama [R] great emotional impact.

 Anger Management 7 Adam Sandler makes two kinds of movie. This is in the "surprisingly Segal, Peter (2003) Comedy [PG-13] good" group, although pairing him with Jack Nicholson is probably unfair.

 Animal Kingdom 8 A young man enters into an Australian crime family just as a ruthless Michôd, David (2010) Crime [R] anti-gang police unit is closing in and has to decide which family member is the more frightening and/or least trustworthy.  Animusic 8 Seven hypnotic animations of original music, in which the MIDI score  Lytle, Wayne (2001) Documentary [NR] drives CGI "instruments." Although there are three or four standouts, the "Pipe Dreams" segment will make you giddy.

 Anna 7 Besson mines the territory he explored in the simpler and more Besson, Luc (2019) Thriller [R] effective "La Femme Nikita," but still produces a interesting, twisting story that makes use of the "X months ago" device to play with our expectations.

 Annie Hall 10 Often considred to be Allen's masterpiece, it combines intellectual Allen, Woody (1977) Comedy [PG] humor with slapstick while never failing in its poignant observations about the ineffable ingredients for romance and the inability to recreate lost ones.

 Annika Bengtzon: Crime Reporter 8 This is a well-produced short series wherein a crime reporter working Fagerström-Olsson, Agneta (2012) Mystery for a tabloidish Swedish newspaper courts danger, barters with the [TV-MA] police for information and ruins her family life.  Anniversary Party, The 7 A reunited novelist and actress celebrate their 6th wedding  Cummings, A & Lee, J J (2001) Comedy / Drama anniversary amid an assortment of friends and "those" neighbors. [R] Great dialog.  Anomalisa 9 A motivational speaker who has become numb to all but his own  Johnson, D & Kaufman, C (2015) Drama [R] existence finds a kernel of emotional rebirth in a one-night stand—maybe. For two or three minutes, you think "these are puppets" and then you completely forget this fact as this extraordinarily human, somewhat allegorical tale unfolds.

 Anonymous 8 There are theories that Shakespeare was too "common" be da guy Emmerich, Roland (2011) Drama [PG-13] what wrote them there plays, and Emmerich runs with that idea to produce an entertaining diversion. A lot of fun for people with an interest in the way history may not always be what we think (but it

 Antitrust 7 (2001) Thriller [PG-13]

 Antwone Fisher 7 (2002) Drama [PG-13]

 Anvil! the Story of Anvil 9 Anvil was a legendary prototype for heavy-metal bands everywhere Gervasi, Sacha (2008) Documentary [UR] that sank into obscurity as its imitators found success. This film focuses on the friendship of the two14-year olds who founded it in the 80's and the irrespressible spirit that is more important than success. Except for a brief throw-away clip, this would be a simple "R" for language.

 Any Given Sunday 8 The drama and skullduggery of pro football and its owners. Stone, Oliver (1999) Action [R]

 Apocalypto 8 A bloody but exhilirating tale of South American forest tribes caught Gibson, Mel (2006) Adventure [R] between the horrific rites of the Aztecs and the coming onslaught of Spanish invasion.

 Apollo 13 9 How you would feel if you went on the longest road trip to best Howard, Ron (1995) Thriller [PG] possible destination, but when you got there, the doors wouldn't open. Bummer, man.

 Appaloosa 8 Two professional gunmen bring justice to a town dominated by a Harris, Ed (2008) Action / Western [R] ruthless rancher. A classically constructed western enhanced by the flaws that fill out the characters.

 Appleseed 8 A peaceful mixture of humans and synthetic humans is threatened by Aramaki, Shinji (2005) Sci-fi [R] paranoid...humanism? Awesome visuals and some very competent action sequences. Skipping the first three minutes turns it into a PG13.

 Appleseed Alpha 7 A half prequel / half reboot of the somewhat superior "Appleseed." Aramaki, Shinji (2014) Action [PG-13] However, as simplistic action thrillers go, this exquisitely CGI-animated story of two mercenaries, one human and one cyborg, is packed. Don't expect character development, but the ginormous, photorealistic visuals make it worth a watch.

 Après Vous 8 One incident of complicated goofiness leads to another in this Salvadori, Pierre (2003) Comedy [R] romantic comedy about a detail-oriented waiter's attempt to play Good Samaritan to a man who would be happier as a heap by the side of the road.

 Archangel 7 A pre-Bond Daniel Craig is a professor of Russian history who Jones, Jon (2005) Thriller / Mystery [NR] stumbles onto the kind of plot that should give the shivers to anyone who thinks about it. There doesn't seem to be any way not to telegraph the ending, but it's entertaining.

 Argo 9 Oozing with the tension that can only be ratcheted up by familiarity Affleck, Ben (2012) Thriller [R] with the real history of the U.S. Embassy incident in Iran, Affleck converts a story too unlikely to be a fictional movie into a top-notch thiller.

 Aristocrats, The 9 This comedy, about a joke that you will probably never hear because Provenza, Paul (2005) Documentary [R] it is a) ancient and b) designed to be a tool for the most obscene riffing a comic can possibly imagine, is a touchstone for the question

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 10 Jim's Video List A  Aristocrats, The "What is humor?" Despite misgivings about whether one can enjoy the same joke told repetitively (even if edited for flow), one finds oneself imagining just how one might tell it oneself while absorbing the limitless variations seen on screen.

 Armageddon 7 (1998) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Army of Shadows 9 A French engineer becomes a leader of the Resistance during World Melville, Jean-pierre (1969) Drama [NR] War II, but instead of triumphal music and patriotic flag-waving, this taut thriller takes you into the hard places in which men and women find themselves when fighting an enemy to whom they cannot risk losing.

 Around the World in 80 Days 7 A Disneyfied (again), amiable but uneven interpolation of the Jules Coraci, Frank (2004) Adventure [PG] Verne novel with Jackie Chan masquerading as Passepartout. Probably will be enjoyed just a bit more by those under 10.

 Arsenic and Old Lace 9 A betrothed young man discovers some frightening, but hilarious Capra, Frank (1944) Comedy / Black [NR] secrets about his two aunts. Classic stuff.

 Art School Confidential 7 Zwigoff runs a skewer through both the high and the low end of Zwigoff, Terry (2006) Comedy / Black [R] collegiate art schools in a reasonbly successful black comedy. It's subplot could be mistaken for a rejected draft of "Hustle and Flow" by Bret Easton Ellis.

 Arthur Christmas 9 The hapless "other" son of the current Santa Claus discovers that Smith, Sarah & Cook, Barry (2011) Comedy [PG] one child was left out of the massive, high-tech Christmas Eve delivery campaign helmed by his "golden child" brother. Inventive in all directions at once while entertaining children and adults alike with all the right questions.

 Artist, The 9 In an almost entirely silent tribute to the era of silent film — and the Hazanavicius, Michel (2011) Drama / Comedy erosion of its stars' fortunes as sound was introduced — a lowly [PG-13] dancer rises to fame as her lover's career falters. A great blend of comedy and drama that proves that sound isn't always needed to create a great movie.

 As Good As It Gets 8 A writer (Jack Nicholson) with a large ego and small social skills Brooks, James L. (1997) Romance [PG-13] attempts to romance a no-nonsense waitress, with appropriately humorous results.

 As It Is in Heaven 8 A successful conductor returns to his hometown and finds something Pollak, Kay (2004) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] he is missing — and something for which he has been searching in the wrong places.

 Ash Is Purest White 8 The struggles of a low-level gangster's girlfriend as she survives Jia, Zhangke (2018) Drama [NR] setbacks that ultimately leave her stronger than those around her. This is almost meditative despite having a genre setting that would suggest lots of bullets and blood.

 Ashes of Time Redux 8 Wong Kar Wai combines his trademark play with textures and light Wong, Kar Wai (1994) Drama / Action [R] and mood into a study of martial arts melancholy, wherein a semi-retired swordsman and "fixer" weaves tales of the people he has met with his own story of an unrequited love triangle. It leaves you wanting find a spot at the end of the bar to drink. Alone.

 Assassination Nation 7 This "Heathers" meets "The Purge" takes the incivility and nihilism of Levinson, Sam (2018) Thriller [R] social media to one logical conclusion. Good fun, but not necessarily for the characters—but they ARE in high school. Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 11

 Assassination of a High School 7 Often funny translation of crime noir to a high school setting, but it President pushes into spoof enough to break the spell. "Brick" is the one to see for this kind of film. Simon, Brett (2008) Comedy / Film Noir [R]

 Assassination Tango 7 A watchable story of family, dance and cold-blooded murder with a Duvall, Robert (2003) Drama / Thriller [R] good lead performance but which only hits a "B" on each subject.

 Atlantis: The Lost Empire 7 (2001) Fantasy [PG]

 Atomic Blonde 9 As the cold war crescendoes toward the fall of the Berlin wall, a Leitch, David (2017) Thriller / Mystery [R] female British agent is sent to retrieve a Very Important List with the help of a markedly untrustable agent already in place. Even without the expertly staged, bone-crunchingly realistic fight scenes involving Charlize Theron, it's an entertaining and satisfying spy thriller.

 Atonement 9 The mistaken actions of a prepubescent girl have enormous Wright, Joe (2007) Drama [R] consequences on two key figures in her life. Following emotional upheaval in the lives of all three, the film explores just how difficult it can be to make amends.  Attack the Block 9 Beginning with a set piece that aggressively avoids this genre's usual  Cornish, Joe (2011) Horror / Sci-fi [R] clichés, a group of teenagers discovers that their 'hood is infested with something unearthly. An excellent example of fresh thinking and attitude that breathes life into the alien invasion genre. It supplies serious, low-tech thrills while larding the action with some understated but sobering social commentary (one example being our brief climpse into Moses' bedroom).

 Aura, The 8 A Walter Mittyish man gets a chance to live in one of his Bielinsky, Fabián (2013) Thriller [UR] crime-oriented fantasies. The result is a tense example of "okayyyy...now what?" film-making with touches of humor and a resolution that feels true.

 Austin Powers in Goldmember 7 (2002) Comedy [PG-13]

 Austin Powers: International Man 7 of Mystery (1997) Comedy [PG-13]

 Austin Powers: The Spy Who 7 Shagged Me (1999) Comedy [PG-13]  Auto Focus 8 Funny, tragic look at the life and dual-personality of Bob Crane,  Schrader, Paul (2002) Drama [R] comedy actor, family man and sexual athlete.

 Autopsy of Jane Doe, The 7 The body of an unidentified young woman seems to be at the center Øvredal, André (2016) Horror [R] of a series of horrific events. A scary, effective bit of claustrophobic horror executed on a shoestring budget.

 Autumn Spring 8 An aging father clings to his childish spirit in the most tenacious way. Michálek, Vladimír (2001) Comedy / Drama Strong performances make this a beautiful balance of comedy and [PG-13] thought-provoking drama.  Avalon 7 A live-action "anime" from the director of "Ghost in the Shell," this is a Oshii, Mamoru (2003) Fantasy / Film Noir [R] very noirish, cyber-punk story of a forbidden adventure game, with arresting visuals and a haunting score, plus the strange mix of Japanese and Polish credits.

 Avatar 9 Where Cameron once did "Romeo and Juliet at Sea," he now does Cameron, James (2009) Adventure [PG-13] "Pocahontas in Space," but between the elaborate 3-D world at your feet and the satisfying and not quite cartoonish personality clash, you definitely get your money's worth.

 Aviator, The 9 An excellent bio-pic that captures the sweep of Howard Hughes' life, Scorsese, Martin (2004) Drama [PG-13] including the stuff normally swept into the closet.

 Awful Truth, The 8 One of the screwball comedies they "don't make any more," this has McCarey, Leo (1937) Comedy / Romance [PG] Cary Grant and Irene Dunne trying as hard as they can to ruin their own divorce without admitting to such an intent. B  Babadook, The 9 When a strange "children's book" appears in the home of a single  Kent, Jennifer (2014) Horror [NR] mother and her precociously odd six-year-old son, truly creepy things start to happen. A very different kind of horror movie, especially enjoyable if you have a passing familiarity with Jungian psychology, but which will nevertheless raise some goosebumps in anyone who watches it.

 Babe 10 This is right at the top of the talking animal genre: funny, moving and Noonan, Chris (1995) Fantasy / Comedy [G] sending a great message to kids while entertaining their parents.

 Babe: Pig in the City 9 Perhaps knowing that a sequel cannot recapture the initial charm of Miller, George (1998) Adventure / Comedy [G] the original, this installment in the life of the intelligent and sincere pig brings him to an idealized big city for a very funny adventure of animal-driven slapstick.

 Babel 9 Despite the coincidences that help drive the plot (but nothing like Iñárritu, Alejandro G. (2006) Drama [R] "Crash"), the realism that underpins the connected stories is possibly more disturbing than some horror films.

 Baby Driver 8 A young man with mad driving skills tries to escape the life of crime Wright, Edgar (2017) Action [R] into which he has been trapped. Great action, humor and off-kilter performances make this a must-see.

 Babylon A. D. 7 With a nice touch with sautéd cat, Vin Diesel stars as a mercenary Kassovitz, Mathieu (2008) Sci-fi / Action [R] assigned to transport a feminine "package" from post-apocalyptic Asia to New York. Well-executed action framed by a script that never quite makes enough sense.

 Backbeat 7 Pre-fame, Hamburg-era Beatles w/kick-ass sound track. The story is Softley, Iain (1993) Drama / Music [R] so-so, but the fly's eye view of a place and time in which a cultural shift was in the making is emotionally riveting.  Bad Batch, The 6 Amirpour's second feature takes us to a society where undesirables  Amirpour, Ana Lily (2016) Sci-fi / Horror [R] are banished to a Mad Max-style desert populated by trailer park cannibals and Burning Man rejects. Worth a watch for a fresh take on the genre and to make you guess who is behind that hermit's makeup.  Bad Santa 9 Funny in the most horrific way, the most worthless soul you could  Zwigoff, Terry (2003) Comedy / Black [R] imagine finds an unlikely glimmer of redemption in an unexpected relationship with a kid. That this is also a setup for the funniest "police brutality" scene I've ever seen is simply part of the proceedings. Recommended for anyone who needs a breather from over-commercialized holiday sweetness.

 Bad Times At the El Royale 9 A group of very suspicious characters, well-equipped with weapons Goddard, Drew (2018) Thriller [R] and greed, converge on a hotel built for the Rat Pack, looking for...something. Yes, things get bad but all the better for the viewer.

 Badassss! 8 The making of both "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song" and the Peebles, Mario Van (2003) Drama [R] legend of its director. Both as a biographical / autobiographical work and as an adventure in the reality of moviemaking, this is a fascinating thing to watch. Watching the original movie first (in appropriate company) adds a lot to the experience.

 Baghead 8 A tight little indie horror tale with a simple backwoods boogie-man Duplas, J and Duplas, M (2008) Horror / Comedy premise. Probably the best $1,000 horror movie you'll ever see. [R]

 Ball of Fire 8 Intellectuals working on a compendium of current slang hire a young Hawks, Howard (1941) Comedy / Thriller [NR] woman to help, unaware of her connection to gangsters. A sure recipe for fun that yields as expected.

 Bambi 10 Disney's reputation for murdering parents begins with a bang and (1942) Adventure very cute bunnies.

 Band Called Death, A 9 The beautifully constructed story of three brothers who formed a Covino, M & Howlett, J (2012) Documentary [NR] band that was both unique and ahead of its time, with an emotional arc that makes this as much about the importance of family love as it is about following one's dreams. This is a great little film.

 Band of Brothers 10 The tale of Easy Company and its blood-spattered, haunting journey Various (2004) Drama [TV-MA] from training in Georgia through D-Day and beyond. Definitely something to show your kids when they are old enough.

 Band's Visit, The 9 A wonderful "small" movie about a band (musical) of Egyptian Kolirin, Eran (2007) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] policemen, on their way to the opening of an Arab cultural center, who wind up opening cultural ties of their own after very bad directions leave them stranded in an Israeli backwater.

 Banger Sisters, The 7 Consistently amusing tale of two rock "fans" who go very separate Dolman, Bob (2002) Comedy [R] ways as they age.

 Baraka 9 This essentially wordless series of moving images collected from Fricke, Ron (1992) Documentary [UR] various places and cultures around the world is both astonishing and involving, with or without drugs.

 Barbarian Invasions, The 9 The gathering of a dying man's family and friends turns into a Arcand, Denys (2003) Drama / Comedy [R] celebration of both life and death. This is a wonderful, funny, touching film.

 Barbershop 8 Consistently funny day-in-the-life story of a neighborhood gathering Rodney, Kevin (2002) Comedy [PG-13] spot, with serious undertones deftly woven into the mix.

 Barbershop II: Back In Business 8 An effective follow-up to the original, with equal doses of comedy, Rodney, Kevin (2004) Comedy [PG-13] drama and issues of family and home.

 Barking Dogs Never Bite 7 A man takes drastic measures to deal with a barking dog, and things Ho, Bong Joon (2000) Comedy / Black [PG-13] get complicated with grim hilarity. With surprises and some well-executed action scenes, this in an unpredictable but enjoyable comedy. Not for dog lovers, though.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 14 Jim's Video List B  Bartleby 8 Melville's Kafkaesque tale of an inconsequential man who chooses to Parker, Jonathan (2001) Comedy / Drama become even less so is given a modern treatment leavened with [PG-13] some very funny comedy bits amid solid acting. BATMAN

 Batman 9 Tim Burton rescues the Caped Crusader from Kitsch-ville and Burton, Tim (1989) Adventure [PG-13] restores the brooding, dangerous qualities that made him interesting. The opening theme over the credits says it all.

 Batman Returns 8 Burton's second Batman revival film matches the first in tone and Burton, Tim (1992) Action [PG-13] quality of villains.

 Batman Begins 10 The perfect complement to Tim Burton's first revival, this "origin" story Nolan, Christopher (2005) Adventure [PG-13] of the Caped Crusader skimps on neither character nor action.

 Dark Knight, The 10 An unsettling performance by Keith Ledger as the nihilistic Joker Nolan, Christopher (2008) Adventure [PG-13] elevates an already great movie to the top of this genre.

 Dark Knight Rises, The 9 Nolan completes his Batman trilogy with a study of oppression Nolan, Christopher (2012) Adventure [PG-13] masquerading as revolution that satisfies on many levels. Although missing the anarchic horror provided by Keith Ledger's Joker, the fear that Bain can actually beat our too-human hero is not far from our consciousness, nor the possibility that sacrifice is the only way for Bruce Wayne to solve his existential problems. All that heaviness is happily offset by the supporting performances, including one the best portrayals of a female villain.

 Joker 8 Probably the most believable super-villain origin story you will ever Phillips, Todd (2019) Drama [R] see, but you will have to decide if it is bleakly impressive or merely impressively bleak. Joaquin Phoenix's performance is solid and unnerving—and except for the age difference could easily segue io Keith Ledger's version. B

 Be Kind Rewind 7 Inventive (see director) homage to the VHS age, do-it-yourself Gondry, Michel (2008) Comedy [PG-13] cinema and Fats Waller, but a bit of a lower-key production for Jack Black.

 Beach, The 7 This is a truly engrossing movie for about 3/4 of its length, then it Boyle, Danny (2000) Drama [R] becomes a lot less believable.

 Bean 7 Rowan Atkinson scores enough solid laughs to make this worth Smith, Mel (1997) Comedy [PG-13] seeing, but not quite as many as one would hope.

 Beasts of the Southern Wild 9 A young girl learns independence and love in an isolated Lousiana Zeitlin, Benh (2012) Drama / Fantasy [PG13] community on the wrong side of the levee. A fabulous example of magical realism, a reverie on life apart from the "real world" among the castoffs of modern society, that packs an emotional punch with an unexpectedly profound version of "last rites."

 Beautiful Mind, A 9 A skillfully constructed adaptation base on the true story of a Howard, Ron (2001) Drama [PG-13] mathematics genius whose mind betrayed him and the faith of his wife in bringing him back to the real world.

 Beavis and Butthead Do America 7 (1996) Comedy [PG-13]

 Because of Winn-Dixie 8 A lonely girl makes friends through the antics of a stray mutt. An Wang, Wayne (2005) Drama / Comedy [PG] entertaining throw-back to live action Disney films, but with no sugary coating over its secondary subject of alcoholism.

 Bedazzled 7 As long as you have not seen any previews, this remake of the 1967 Ramis, Harold (2000) Comedy [PG-13] Peter Cook / Dudley Moore film entertains well enough, but doesn't hit the levels of cleverness you might expect from its director.

 Beerfest 7 Another tour-de-force of sophomoric humor from Broken Lizard. Chandrasekhar, Jay (2006) Comedy [R] Although this doesn't have "three great scenes and no bad ones" it does have a reasonably coherent story line about stolen beer formulas, a number of decently funny set pieces and one scene that could be fatal if you've had recent abdominal surgery.

 Before the Devil Knows You're 9 A plot by two brothers to rob a jewelry store takes them on Dead unexpected paths. Great performances by its cast makes this tale, fractured in more ways than one, riveting all the way to the intensely Lumet, Sidney (2007) Crime [R] felt end.  Being John Malkovich 10 A totally bizarre idea, the existence of a passage into an actor's  Jonze, Spike (1999) Fantasy [R] consciousness, taken to its logical and hilarious conclusion.

 Beirut 8 Starting in pre-devastation Beirut, this follows a diplomat's Anderson, Brad (2018) Thriller / Drama [R] not-quite-voluntary chance at redemption, as untrustable elements of the CIA, the PLO and the Massad vie for advantange as war destroys "the Paris of the Middle East." Very effective in its even-handed portrayal of the players.

 Bell Book and Candle 8 When a New York witch goes after a new "Christmas present" (i.e., Quine, Richard (1958) Romance / Comedy [PG] an unsuspecting man) her life gets more complicated than she expected. Despite a fairly unsurprising plot, this comes through due to very strong comic performances from all, especially the supporting case, and Kim Novak's subtly scary "Gillian."

 Bend it Like Beckham 9 This "formula" sports movie rises way above its class due to the Chadha, Gurinder (2002) Drama / Comedy writing and performances of the principal actors. Don't miss the [PG-13] DVD's cooking lesson extra, which will be hilarious to anyone with a perfectionist elder in the family.

 Beowulf 8 Although this pushes the PG-13 rating with some museum-like nudity, Zemeckis, Robert (2007) Action [PG-13] its message about the dangers of giving in to temptation, the hidden costs of being a "hero" and the folly of just being too damn full of yourself push it back as a font of family talking points. It should to be seen in 3-D to fully appreciate the beautiful CGI animation.

 Bernie 7 The true story of a local undertaker, church leader and musical Linklater, Richard (2011) Comedy / Drama director who was the darling of his small Texas town until he had the [PG13] misfortune of becoming the BFF of a woman who was as universally hated as he was loved. Sometimes being the friendliest person in town doesn't work out so well.  Best in Show 8 The cut-throat world of dog shows from the "Spinal Tap" folks.  (2000) Comedy / Black [PG-13]

 Best Laid Plans 7 A man stuck in his hometown tries to help a buddy with a serious Barker, Mike (1999) Crime / Thriller [R] woman problem. This is a well-crafted little thriller that twists a bit more as soon as you think you have a handle on it.

 Beware of Mr. Baker 8 A fairly riveting documentary about the first best drummer in rock Bulger, Jay (2012) Documentary [R] music, whose personality makes it a little astonishing that he is not dead, by either self-immolation or murder. Hardly a typical "where are they now" story, it is instead something of a revelation about the nature of genius; here is the different drummer to which some people march.

 Big Ass Spider 7 An enjoyable and often funny semi-low budget actioner about a Mendez, Mike (2013) Sci-fi / Horror [PG-13] rather nasty mutant arachnid loose in Los Angeles.

 Big Chill, The 8 A group of friends spend an impromptu reunion weekend after a Kasdan, Lawrence (1983) Drama [R] death in the old group, leading to a lot of entertaining soul-searching and reevaluations of relationships.

 Big Eyes 8 The story of Margaret Keane, the 1960s painter who created a series Burton, Tim (2014) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] of big-eyed "waif" paintings, and her husband—who turned it into both a fad and art world scandal. This is another entertaining movie that examines the often fuzzy line between "real" art and "popular" art.  Big Fish 8 The son of an incurable teller of tall tales tries to find the "real" man  Burton, Tim (2003) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] amid the retelling of several of his tallest. A celebration of how people live on in the memory of those who knew them.

 Big Hero 6 8 This is a lot of fun and takes some unexpected paths in defining what Hall, D & Williams, C (2014) Sci-fi [PG] a hero is.

 Big Lebowski, The 8 With a mystery as its center of gravity, the Coen Brothers then run Coen, J. and Coen, E. (1998) Mystery / Comedy wild in a comic tale that goes into all sorts of orbital loops. [R]

 Big Night 7 Character-driven food movie (really good food), but with not quite (1996) Comedy [R] enough character to enliven the slow pace.  Big Short, The 9 The story of the home finance collapse that in turn took down the  McKay, Adam (2015) Drama [R] world economy in 2007-2008, told from the perspective of two groups of analysts who saw coming what no one would believe — or admit — was even possible. Big points for its ability to explain the deliberately esoteric terms used by Wall Street types to confuse their clients.

 Big Sick, The 9 This funny, dramatic and heartfelt collision of family, professional and Showalter, Michael (2017) Comedy / Drama [R] cultural expections takes a struggling comedian through a major crisis in the life of his new girlfriend.

 Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me 8 The story of one of the most famous unknown Memphis bands of the Denicola, D & Mori, O (2013) Documentary 70's, a group that defined "power pop" and had an influence among [PG-13] later musicians that was inversely proportional to its commercial success.

 Billy Elliot 9 Can Billy dance his way out of British poverty? (2000) Drama [R]

 Bird Cage, The 8 The Frech original will probably always be "the one" for those who Nichols, Mike (1996) Comedy [R] saw it, but this Americanized version is really entertaining on its own.

 Bird With the Crystal Plumage, 7 Except for a bit of pscho-babble towards the end and amusing use of The '70s tech as props, this tightly wound thriller about a series of murders by a black-clad fiend established Argento's reputation. It still Argento, Dario (1970) Thriller [PG]

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 17 B  Bird With the Crystal Plumage, holds up well in both story and mood. The  Birdman Or (the Unexpected 8 An actor, whose most famous role is a super-hero he badly wants to  Virtue of Ignorance) put in his past, stars in a Broadway play. Things get weird. Iñárritu, Alejandro G. (2014) Comedy / Drama [R]

 Black Book 8 A Jewish girl evades capture by Nazi, then works her way into their Verhoeven, Paul (2006) Thriller [R] world with serious mischief in mind.

 Black Dahlia, The 8 An exploration of one of the most horrifying Hollywood murders, way Palma, Brian De (2006) Crime [R] before the time of Charles Manson, and the people on which it had an impact.  Black Dynamite 7 An inspired parody of 70's blaxploitation movies that acquits itself well Sanders, Scott (2009) Comedy [R] against the likes of "Planet Terror" and "Death Proof." The humor is well integrated into the plot line instead of just random silliness and it works.

 Black Hawk Down 9 Harrowing retelling of the true incident in Somalia where an Scott, Ridley (2001) Adventure [R] attempted apprehension of warlord thugs blows up into an urban battle.

 Black Mask 7 Lee, Daniel (1996) Adventure [R]

 Black Sea 7 A mostly predictable (but not always) thriller in which a commercial MacDonald, Kevin (2014) Thriller [8] submarine pilot tries to beat the company that fired him to a big payoff in Russian waters. Good performances and claustrophobic realism make it worth seeing.  Black Snake Moan 9 100% spirit of the Blues gets uncorked in this not-really-over-the-top  Brewer, Craig (2006) Drama [R] salvation drama that fills a tongue-in-cheek riff on 70's sexploitation films with the spirit and flesh of real people trying to work with the hands they hold. Great music and formidable acting from both leads make this Brewer's second strong "gritty reality/fantasy."

 Black Spot 8 The gendarmie of a small French town surrounded by an ancient Missoffe, Mathieu (2017) Mystery [TV-14] forest solves an inordinate number of cult-like murders while trying to locate a missing girl. A mix of police procedural and long-form mystery with a big dollop of Twin Peaks moodiness, much-needed humor and a soupçon of Roman-era mythology. The series' English title, a reference (at minimum) to the area's cell phone reception, sets an amusing new bar for "loosely translated."

 Blade 7 (1998) Action / Horror [R]

 Blade Runner 10 Human cop hunts androids in a dark and wet L.A. As the story Scott, Ridley (1982) Sci-fi / Film Noir [R] progresses, it becomes less clear who is human and who is not. The director's cut / final cut versions have the true, ambiguous ending.

 Blade Runner 2049 9 35 years after the ground-breaking original, we have a sequel. Villeneuve, Denis (2017) Sci-fi [R] Although it can't surpass moments like the "tears in rain" scene, it holds its own as an exploration of the ideas of humanity and society, with equally stunning visuals.

 Blade: Trinity 7 A moderately enjoyable addition to the series, without saying it rises Goyer, David S. (2004) Horror / Action [R] above the average for the Kung Fu/Goth/vampire sub-genre. Parker Posey is badly miscast, though...WTF?  Blair Witch Project, The 8 Although this particular movie could only be done once (not counting  Myrick, D and Sánchez, E (1999) Horror [R] countless parodies) and depends upon a suspension of disbelief regarding the camera work, it effectively generates a sense of overwhelming dread.

 Blast From the Past 8 If you've enjoyed "fish out of water" stories, you will probably also Wilson, Hugh (1999) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] enjoy this "boy out of the fallout shelter" story.

 Blazing Saddles 8 Mel Brooks' classic pie-in-your-blackface sendup of Westerns. Brooks, Mel (1974) Comedy [R]

 Bletchley Circle, The 9 A group of women who secretly worked for the British code-breaking Various (2012) Mystery / Thriller [NR] operation during WW2 contend with their return to traditional women's roles by solving crimes that baffle the police. In addition to the mysteries, this series generates a lot of sparks from the way society forced people back into their social molds after the war, complementing the separate story of Alan Turing.

 Blood Diamond 9 A frightening, politically-charged but satisfying adventure film set Zwick, Edward (2006) Drama [R] amidst the dangers of diamond-funded civil war in Africa.  Blood Simple 9 Primo modern noir film that hits the target.  (1984) Thriller / Film Noir [R]

 Blood Work 7 Eastwood has a new heart and the donor's sister thinks it was Eastwood, Clint (2002) Crime [R] available through foul play.

 Blood: the Last Vampire 7 Competently executed tale of a vampire girl working for a mysterious Kitakubo, Hiroyuki (2000) Horror / Action [PG-13] government agency in pursuit of demons disguised as people.

 Bloodsucking Bastards 7 At a particularly oppressive phone bank office, a horrific change O'Connell, Brian James (2015) Horror / Comedy happens to some of the employees, creating a very serious problem [NR] for the rest. Black humor is the operative mood.

 Blow the Man Down 8 Two sisters—one reserved and responsible and the other ready blow Cole, B & Krudy, D (2019) Crime / Comedy [R] their tiny fishing town—find themselves unexpectedly dealing with murder, apparent murder, a less-than-trustworthy madam and the town's ruling biddies. An enjoyable blend of comedic noir in which the town males are mostly props.

 Blue Crush 7 A talented surfer, skittish after an accident, struggles with her dream Stockwell, John (2002) Adventure / Romance of winning big. Nothing new about the story, but the surfer culture [PG-13] adds a strong background while the action shots take you right into the clutches of truly dangorous waters.

 Blue Room, The 8 From a Georges Simenon novel, a deconstructed non-linear telling of Amalric, Mathieu (2014) Mystery / Drama [R] an affair that may have led to a crime, or two, possibly committed by one person, or two. If at all. It weaves a melancholy spell about the way relationships, once started, can refuse to be controlled.

 Blue Ruin 8 Take the basic "protect my family + revenge" plot of an early Steven Saulnier, Jeremy (2013) Crime [R] Seagal movie, but make the hero something of a nerdy loner and add real, sometimes truly scary actors. This is a great little movie that steers clear of the genre's usual clichés.

 Blue Valentine 8 This is an extremely well-acted portrayal, in a time-hopping style, of a Cianfrance, Derek (2010) Drama [R] marriage ready to disintegrate due to what amounts to insurmountable odds. Pretty much the exact opposite of a date movie.  Blue Velvet 8 David Lynch explores some hidden rot beneath the skin of "normal"  (1986) Thriller [R] life. Watch out for that NO2-snorting dude. BOGART

 Maltese Falcon, The 9 A wily private eye gets involved in the search for a mysterious but Huston, John (1941) Mystery / Film Noir [NR] very valuable object. Three second-string actors and a notorious actress hit career gold to create one of the first and best examples of American film noir, in the 3rd remake of Hamett's original story.

 Casablanca 10 The definitive movie romance that pits the concerns of two people Curtiz, Michael (1942) Romance / Action [PG] against the backdrop of a world in cataclysm. Not to be missed.

 To Have and Have Not 10 Bogart and Bacall get involved in smuggling during World War Hawks, Howard (1944) Adventure / Romance 2—and with each other in a big way—with Hemingway's original story [UR] made almost unrecognizable by William Faulkner.

 Big Sleep, The 10 Bogart and Bacall in a classic Raymond Chandler story. One of the Hawks, Howard (1946) Mystery / Film Noir [NR] must-see movies.

 Treasure of the Sierra Madre, The 9 Lost gold and Humphrey Bogart. Huston, John (1948) Drama / Adventure [NR]

 Key Largo 8 A veteran visiting a family-owned Florida Keys hotel matches wits Huston, John (1948) Thriller / Film Noir [NR] with a gangster. Another classic, with Bogart paired with Edward G. Robinson.

 In a Lonely Place 8 Classic "did he do it?" murder mystery with Bogart as a screen writer Ray, Nicholas (1950) Drama [PG] and prime suspect.

 African Queen, The 10 Bogart. Hepburn. Leeches. What's not to like? Huston, John (1951) Romance / Adventure [PG] B

 Bohemian Rhapsody 8 Even if this is a somewhat by-the-numbers biopic, the story of Singer, Bryan (2018) Drama [PG-13] Freddie Mercury's life is riveting stuff. Definitely makes you want to find the Live Aid footage on YouTube (recreated move-by-move in the film).

 Boiler Room 8 A college drop-out gets pulled into an off-Wall Street stock marketing Younger, Ben (2000) Drama [R] firm. The disc has both the "feel-good" theater ending and the darker and funnier original.

 Bon Voyage 9 A consistently funny, often unpredictable action-romance set in Rappeneau, Jean-Paul (2004) Adventure / France at the onset of World War II that is the best example of pure, Romance [PG-13] old-fashioned entertainment to come along in quite a while.

 Bone Tomahawk 8 This traditional western morphs into an effective and truly unsettling Zahler, S. Craig (2015) Horror / Western [R] horror flick. Its length might be trimmed, yet the time spent on western vistas makes them as much a character as any and there is no denying the impact of this film, a bastard child of "The Searchers" and "The Devil's Rejects."

 Boogie Nights 9 The ups and downs and ins and outs of a male star in a serious and Anderson, Paul Thomas (1997) Drama / Comedy on-target recreation of the pre-video porn industry of the 70's. [R]

 Book of Life, The 8 A wonderfully different animation based on Mexican folk legends Gutiérrez, Jorge R. (2014) Comedy [PG] about life after death and La Día de Muertos festival. Two friends engage in a (mostly) friendly rivalry over a girl and become the subject of a bet between gods. Not just entertaining but a true feast for the eyes with its use of color.

 Bordello of Blood 7 Dennis Miller stars in a B-movie horror spoof about a Adler, Gilbert (1996) Action / Horror [R] vampire-infested house of ill-repute. A good Saturday night no-brainer.

 Born Into Brothels 10 A documentary filmmaker moves into a Calcutta red-light district and Briski, Zana & Kauffman, Ross (2004) falls in love with the children of the workers. Her gift of cameras and Documentary [R] lessons in how to use them has a profound efffect on all involved. The "R" rating is solely for language, so don't miss this one.

 Borrowers, The 8 (1998) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Boss of It All, The 7 Dogme and "The Office" mix effectively in Von Trier's tale of an actor Trier, Lars Von (2006) Comedy [UR] hired to shield a business owner from the personality and moral complications of his business schemes.

 Bottle Shock 8 The tale of how California became respected as a producer of fine Miller, Randall (2008) Drama [PG-13] wines, told from the perspective of those trying to make a success of Montelena Chateau. Some of the fictionalized situations are a bit Disneyesque, but the movie has the feel of a good sports film.  Bound 8 Two women get their revenge on a dangerous jerk and have a very  Wachowski, A & L (1996) Crime / Film Noir [R] close friendship while doing it.

 Bourne Identity, The 9 A man awakes to find he has no memory of his past life, then slowly Liman, Doug (2002) Thriller [PG-13] discovers that it was neither tedious nor particularly safe.

 Bourne Supremacy, The 8 Extremely good example of the action spy thriller although it's missing Greengrass, Paul (2004) Thriller [PG-13] the initial mystery of the first one.

 Bourne Ultimatum, The 10 To say that this is a "slam-bang" ending to a superior espionage Greengrass, Paul (2007) Thriller [PG-13] series is a gross understatement. The film simply does not let up. That it overshadows some great examples of this genre without a massive explosion at the end is a testament to how good Greengrass and Damon are in their respective roles.

 Bowfinger 8 A hack director builds a last-ditch B-movie around a spoiled star who Oz, Frank (1999) Comedy [PG-13] doesn't know he's in the movie.

 Boy Wonder 8 A teenager whose mother was murdered years before becomes a Morrissey, Michael (2010) Drama / Thriller [R] vigilante, trying to find his mother's killer while dealing with the aftermath of an abusive father. This delivers an unforgettable twist in showing that abuse never really stops claiming new victims.

 Bram Stoker's Dracula 8 A more faithful adaptation of the classic vampire tale. Coppola, Francis Ford (1992) Horror [R]

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 21 B  Branded To Kill 7 This is considered Suzuki's B-movie masterpiece, all mood and style  Suzuki, Seijun (1967) Action [R] laced with sex and violence. The plot is understandable more as a concept than a fleshed out thing, but plot is not the point.

 Brave One, The 8 Jodie Foster is absolutely convincing as a very dangerous woman, a Jordan, Neil (2007) Thriller [R] vigilante who looks on her growing addiction to killing with both horror and helpless resignation. A well-written examination of moving to the dark side that proves, in spite of the shameless cartoons starring Charles Bronson, that you CAN make this kind of movie well.

 Brawl in Cell Block 99 8 An honor-bound ex-con is forced back into drug-running despite Zahler, S. Craig (2017) Thriller / Horror [NR] major misgivings. Although not a noir in cinematography, it is an extreme example of the genre's mood, as one decision leads to another very bloody one.

 Breakdown 7 Well-done thriller about a highway kidnapping. (1997) Thriller [R]

 Breakfast At Tiffany's 9 A "party girl" whom we suspect is being paid for her socializing meets Edwards, Blake (1961) Comedy / Drama [NR] a failing writer; they manage to change each other's life. Also includes Mickey Rooney's so very non-PC Asian character, so be prepared, but the ending is worth getting past that.

 Breaking Bad 9 An unexpected health issue leads a mild-mannered, slightly anal high Gilligan, Vince (2008) Crime / Comedy [TV-14] school chemistry teacher into what can only be called the Raging Queen Mother of Mid-life Crises, a slow-motion plane, train and automobile wreck spead over multiple seasons, involving crystal meth, idiot ex-students, crazed drug kingpins and in-laws with inconvenient occupations. A real hoot, but may keep you up at night thinking about how bad decisions are easy to make.

 Breaking the Waves 8 It's hard to reconcile this film's Dogme underpinnings with some of Von Trier, Lars (1996) Drama [R] the plot devices used to create its story, but if you go with it, you'll find this a powerful experience. If you don't, you'll probably think it's crap. I tend to vote for the former, but could vote otherwise on any given day.

 Breathless 9 One of the seminal films of the French "New Wave" of the 60's, this Godard, Jean-luc (1960) Crime [UR] film about a petty thief immersed in his own version of an American crime movie is as much about playing with the elements of a movie and the environment in which it occurs as it is about its plot and characters (who are nevertheless very, very cool).  Brick 9 Remember all those cool kids in high school who were always in  Johnson, Rian (2005) Mystery / Film Noir [R] some kind of trouble? Here's what they were up to, told in a classic noir style as both riveting mystery flick and absurdist comedy in one expertly assembled package.

 Bride and Prejudice 8 From the director of "Bend It Like Beckham," a highly enjoyable Chadha, Gurinder (2004) Musical / Comedy Bollywood re-make of the classic Jane Austen story, with the added [PG-13] spice of cultural clashes and one hell of a serpent dance.

 Bride of Frankenstein 9 One of the first sequels to prove that it was possible to meet the Whale, James (1935) Horror [PG] same standards set for the original, this is one of the true classics of old Hollywood horror.

 Bridesmaids 8 The "gross-out buddy comedy with an emotional subtext as Feig, Paul (2011) Comedy [R] redeeming social value" goes 'round the circle to reach into chick-flick territory. Very funny stuff.

 Bridget Jones’s Diary 8 The trials and triumphs of a slightly chubby career girl in search of Maguire, Sharon (2001) Comedy / Drama [R] love or a good substitute.

 Bring It On 7 Fairly entertaining story of love and treachery amidst college Reed, Peyton (2000) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] cheerleading teams aiming for national recognition.

 Bringing Up Baby 9 Rapid-fire dialog, sight gags and mistaken identity power this Hawks, Howard (1938) Comedy [PG] screwball comedy that only gets better with the years (and is another classic that initially failed at the box office).

 Broken Arrow 7 (1996) Action [R]

 Broken Flowers 9 A rapidly softening Lothario discovers that he may or may not have a Jarmusch, Jim (2005) Comedy / Drama [R] son. One of Jarmusch's most mainstream movies without giving in to a pat ending.

 Brother 7 A disgraced Yakuza moves to the states to take up business with his Kitano, Takeshi (2001) Action [R] brother. Above-average Japanese gangster flick.

 Brotherhood of the Wolf 8 Once you get past the kung-fu technique of the Native American Gans, Christophe (2001) Horror / Action [R] character (but then, this IS a fantasy), this is a decent, classically-constructed horror flick that riffs on a legendary series of eerie killings in 16th century France. The English-dubbed dialog is not up to par, so if you can, stick with the original French.

 Brothers Grimm, The 8 An entertaining reworking of the historical brothers in a tale that Gilliam, Terry (2005) Fantasy [PG-13] draws as much on Terry Gilliam's limitless imagination as it does on their work.

 Bruce Almighty 7 Somewhat uneven "be careful what you ask for" comedy about a man Shadyac, Tom (2003) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] given godlike powers. The funniest set piece is actually the work of one of Jim Carrey's co-actors.  Bubba Ho-tep 7 A B-movie plot gets raised to the heights of comic absurdity as two  Coscarelli, Don (2003) Comedy / Horror [R] kings and one president, who are all supposed to be dead, battle it out in the confines of a nursing home. This is the very definition of the expression "what a hoot!" and the more you know about Elvis, the more you will appreciate the accuracy of Bruce Campbell's characterization.

 Buena Vista Social Club 9 The heart and soul of the pre-Castro Cuban club scene rediscovered. Wenders, Wim (1999) Documentary [G]

 Buffalo Soldiers 7 The inspired shenanigans of a modern-day (and somewhat less Jordan, Gregor (2001) Comedy [R] admirable) Sgt. Bilko.

 Bulworth 8 A desparate politician who faces certain death decides to start telling Beatty, Warren (1998) Comedy [R] the truth with hilarious results.

 Buried 8 A U.S. truck driver in Iraq finds himself in a very bad predicament. Cortés, Rodrigo (2010) Thriller [R] The director pulls off a taut thriller in spite of the inherent limitations of this premise.

 Burn After Reading 9 A low comedy that manages to rip into the stupidity and obsessions Coen, Joel & Ethan (2008) Comedy [R] of gold-diggers, personal trainers, criminals and government spooks all at once. Excellent stuff.

 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance 9 Hill turns an old legend / history into a wonderful study of Kid relationships and the inevitability of fate. Hill, George Roy (1969) Adventure / Western

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 23 B  Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid[PG]  Butcher Boy, The 8 Graphic study of a mind trapped in a murderous self-delusion, with  (1998) Drama / Horror [R] vivid performances.

 Buyback 7 A police squad is betrayed and must fight its way out of a Manila slum Matti, Erik (2018) Thriller / Martial Arts [R] that is infested with both drug gangs and some REALLY angry residents who have suffered under the brutal anti-drug policies of Duarte. Great action and the political commentary underpinning it may be dangerous for those who made the film.

 Byzantium 8 No, the tweens can't see it and no it doesn't have sprawling battles Jordan, Neil (2012) Horror / Romance [R] between vampires and werewolves, but this is a good example of how to do the moody teen horror/romance movie right. Goes on the shelf next to "Let the Right One In." C

 Caché 8 A couple begins to receive a creepy series of tapes about themselves Haneke, Michael (2005) Thriller [R] that begin an unraveling of the same. Definitely a "movie and discussion afterwards" kind of movie, and watching the final scene closely will fuel the talk.

 Café Society 7 Woody Allen follows a writer as he gains entrance to Hollywood Allen, Woody (2016) Comedy [PG-13] society. Entertaining and wry, but not one of his major films.

 Calvary 9 If there is a movie in which a quote starting with "the sins of the McDonagh, John Michael (2014) Drama [R] fathers" was a better fit, it would be hard to find. In this sometimes humorous but ultimately dark pull-no-punches tale, a small Irish town stands in for humanity. It is a portrait of official religion losing its abiity to fend off the cynicism and vengeance of a world against which it has sinned once too often. Nevertheless, that mustard seed on which real faith is based is ever ready to surface and heal again.

 Capote 10 The story of the first "non-fiction novel" and how it subtly destroyed its Miller, Bennett (2005) Drama [R] author, with outstanding performances from the cast.

 Carnivàle 8 Depression-era plot lines involving a traveling circus and a very Various (2003) Drama / Fantasy [TV-MA] intense preacher and his sister slowly converge in a creepy but riveting fantasy about good and evil. A case study in how to shoot yourself in the foot by being way too mysterious for your whole first season, turning your six-season plot line into a forced one of just two.

 Casa De Los Babys 9 A day and a half for a group of women waiting to adopt Mexican Sayles, John (2003) Drama [R] orphans, from a director with a knack for pulling all sorts of issues and themes out of the bits of the lives on screen.

 Casanova 9 A superb example of historical comedy-romance that has all carriage Hallström, Lasse (2005) Comedy / Romance [R] horses in step: clever plot, witty dialog, visual appeal, action and emotional undercurrents that may sneak up on you. The "R" rating is a sad joke.  Cashback 8 An expansion of the director's award-winning short about an art  Ellis, Sean (2006) Comedy / Drama [R] student struggling with both romance and a possibly real power over time, this is a small gem of an indie film.

 Casper 7 Silberling, Brad (1995) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Cast A Deadly Spell 8 An odd and mostly effective mix of film noir and fantasy magic, with a Campbell, Martin (1991) Horror / Comedy private detective named Harry Lovecraft going up against a lounge [PG-13] owner with other-worldly ambitions. Part of the fun is the deadpan acceptance of magic expressed in imaginative and humorous ways.

 Cast Away 9 After his plane crashes in the Pacific, an executive must survive Zemeckis, Robert (2000) Drama [PG-13] alone. Tom Hanks does very well in what is essentially a one-man (and one volley ball) show that pulls no punches in favor of a "Hollywood" ending.

 Cat People 9 A woman fears that an ancient curse will doom her husband if they Tourneur, Jacques (1942) Horror [NR] are intimate. Only slightly spoiled by studio insistence on showing a "monster," ignoring that leaves a seminal work of brooding psychological horror that asks the viewer to decide if the unfortunate female is making it all up to avoid intimacy. This possibility is underscored by the surprisingly subversive implications of a character in a restaurant scene. See it.

 Catch Me If You Can 8 The true adventures of the prolific impostor Frank Abagnale Jr., with Spielberg, Steven (2002) Comedy [PG-13] great performances by Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio.  Catfish 9 A New York photographer develops an internet frienship with an  Schulman, A & Joost, H (2000) Documentary admiring young Michigan artistic prodigy and her family, which [PG-13] morphs into a relationship with her older sister. Then things get real freakin' interesting. This unsettling but ultimate satisfying documentary plays on our post-"Blair Witch" expectations while taking us to a wholly unexpected place.

 Cats and Dogs 7 (2001) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Cats Don't Dance 7 Reasonably done and fairly amusing adventure of a cat that wants to Dindal, Mark (1997) Fantasy [G] break into show business.  Cause For Alarm! 7 This story of a housewife with an abusive husband is enjoyable not  Garnett, Tay (1951) Drama [UR] just for its build to a great plot twist, but for its invitation for modern viewers to provide a running commentary on its concentration of everything that was wrong with 50's culture.

 Cave of Forgotten Dreams 8 In the French countryside lies a cave, its original entrance buried Herzog, Werner (2010) Documentary [G] 40,000 years ago, in which the walls are covered with paintings done BEFORE the landslide. Getting rare access to the caves, Herzog uses 3-D technology to take us right into an amazing art gallery that predates recorded history.

 Ceder Rapids 7 This otherwise successful example of a low-key, consistently Arteta, Miguel (2011) Comedy [R] well-written human interest farce — about a naive insurance salesman thrust into a "big city" convention — only stumbles in pushing the main character's sometimes child-like personality as a source of comedy when it stretches credulity.

 Cell 211 9 A guard becomes involved in a prison riot charged with both gang Monzón, Daniel (2009) Thriller [R] and political issues. Definitely a different kind of prison thriller; it will keep you wondering what till happen until the end.

 Cell, The 7 (2000) Horror [R]

 Cellular 8 Competently done thriller about a woman kidnapped because of Ellis, David R. (2004) Thriller [PG-13] something her husband knows.

 Central Intelligence 7 Dwayne Johnson and Chris Hart explore the mysteries of how fishes Thurber, Rawson Marshall (2016) Comedy / out of water change after high school in an often very funny and Thriller [PG-13] occasionally surprising take on intelligence operations.

 Chaos 7 A disgraced cop is pulled into service at the request of a Giglio, Tony (2005) Crime / Action [R] hostage-holding criminal with some serious twists in his plans. Not bad, although some of twists depend on simply misleading the viewers instead of letting them do it on their own.

 Chaos Theory 8 An efficiency expert tells the tale of how a ten minute shift in time Siega, Marcos (2007) Comedy / Romance made his life unravel in horrifically funny ways. A winning date movie [PG-13] with some unexpected turns of plot.

 Charade 9 An entertaining thriller that seems to effortlessly equal Hitchcock's Donen, Stanley (1963) Thriller [PG] talent in this genre. A recent widow, who discovers that she knew her distant husband even less well than she thought, finds herself emperiled and/or helped by a collection of mysterious strangers. But she cannot tell which verb applies to whom...

 Charlie Brown Christmas, A 9 This deserved to be called a masterpiece because of its sober Melendez, Bill (1965) Comedy [TV-G] examination of the true Christmas spirit and its wholly unexpected but effective use of a jazz soundtrack.

 Charlie Wilson's War 9 Based on the true story of the 3rd-string Congressman who found Nichols, Mike (2007) Drama [R] himself in a position to defeat the Soviet Union and went for it.

 Charlie's Angels 7 (2000) Action [PG-13]

 Charlotte's Web 9 The classic tale of a spider who manages to save a special pig from Winick, Gary (2006) Drama [G] the grill.

 Chasing Amy 7 (1997) Comedy [R]

 Checking Out 8 Enjoyable comedy about an aging actor's decision to leave life on his Hare, Jeff (2005) Comedy [PG-13] own terms and his offspring's determination to convince him otherwise.

 Chef 8 Although the plot does not ultimately offer any surprises, the plot of Favreau, Jon (2014) Comedy / Drama [R] this foodie movie about a self-immolating chef isn't really the point. Great dialog and an atmosphere of fun make this very entertaining.

 Chicago 8 A funny and impressive revival of the Bob Fosse stage show. Marshall, Rob (2002) Musical / Crime [PG-13]

 Chicken Run 10 Hilarious animation with serious undertones from the creator of Lord, Peter & Park, Nick (2000) Fantasy / Wallace and Gromit. Comedy [G]

 Children of Men 10 This movie, about a near future in which the human race has become Cuarón, Alfonso (2007) Sci-fi / Thriller [R] infertile, quickly pulls you into its world of social satire, political disintegration and ferociously immersive action, all leading to an extraordinary moment of spiritual calm, a parting of the troubled waters that drown humanity in violence.

 Chinatown 10 Corruption! Sleaze! Guns! This is pretty much a perfectly rendered Polanski, Roman (1974) Mystery / Film Noir [R] modern homage to the classic Noir genre. Try watching it with the color turned off (or almost off, for an equally interesting effect).

 Chocolat 8 Light romance with spirited performances and a touch of fantasy. Hallström, Lasse (2000) Romance / Comedy [PG-13]  Chocolate 7 What the director did for simple Thai farmers in "Ong Bak: The Thai  Pinkaew, Prachya (2008) Action [R] Warrior" he repeats for autistic children in this tale, in which the special needs daughter of an ex-yakuza woman (or was she with the government?) shows an unnatural ability for Thai fighting. Sometimes a bit too maudlin, The young star escalates her quest into an scarily intense finale that has to be experienced. Either these are the most dedicated stunt people in history — or life is cheap in Thailand.

 Chop Shop 9 A boy and his older sister do what they need to survive in the urban Bahrani, Ramin (2007) Drama [R] world of auto parts "recyclers." Imagine your average "plucky kids" family pic, then shift the whole thing towards a hard-edged reality that accentuates its potent message about the importance of sticking with whatever family you have, no matter what.

 Christmas in Connecticut 8 A publisher invites a soldier to a traditional Christmas at the family Godfrey, Peter (1945) Comedy [G] farm of his star women's writer, which threatens to expose some closely kept secrets. A nice "oldie" to turn to when the Christmas standbys grow moldy.

 Christmas in July 8 This early Sturges comedy has plenty of foreshadowing of the Sturges, Preston (1940) Comedy [PG] masterpieces to come, as a joke played on a less-than-impressive slogan contestant leads to a comedy of many, many errors.

 Christmas Story, A 9 A more modern "classic" of the trials and tribulations of wanting Clark, Bob (1983) Comedy [PG] something so bad for Christmas that you are willing to shoot your eye out.

 Chronicle 8 As it credibly navigates the challenges of the "found footage" genre, Trank, Josh (2012) Sci-fi [PG13] this essentialy "small" movie, about three teenagers who bond over the unexpected development of new "talents," uses their unsettling but realistically natural reactions to construct a chilling but believable variation on the "superhero origin" story. Stay away from the trailer if at all possible.

 Chuck & Buck 8 In lesser hands this story of two childhood friends, one who moved on Arteta, Miguel (2000) Drama / Comedy [R] and the other seriously fixated on a lost friendship, would have been your basic psycho-stalker movie. Instead even as you squirm with tension you feel much more than cardboard in these characters and the ending does not succumb to cheap cliches.

 Cider House Rules, The 9 A wonderful drama that evokes the compassion and sense of duty Hallström, Lasse (1999) Drama [PG-13] that leads someone to devote their life to caring for the rejected.

 Cinderella 9 Branagh goes back to basics in this live action retelling of the classic Branagh, Kenneth (2015) Fantasy [PG] tales, and the result has an unexpected emotional punch that the animated version barely touches. A reimagining that works extremely well.

 Cinderella Man 8 A superbly choreographed boxing story focuses on the true story of a Howard, Ron (2005) Drama [PG-13] boxer brought low by injuries and the Depresson, who fights for a second chance for himself and his manager. For a sports movie, this one really has some weight to it.

 Cinema Paradiso 9 A celebration of the cinema as a paradise available to all. Tornatore, Giuseppe (1988) Romance [PG]

 Citizen Kane 10 Although top ten lists are really hard to nail down, one cannot ignore Welles, Orson (1941) Drama [PG] the genius—in every deliberately planned aspect of makeup to camera angle to lighting—found in this ground-breaking tale of innocence lost on the way to the top (of the cliff). It may not be the first instance of every technique on display, but as a tour-de-force of what was possible in its time, it cannot be equaled.

 City of Angels 7 (1998) Family [PG-13]

 City of Ember 8 A young boy and girl work through the mysteries hidden within their Kenan, Gil (2008) Fantasy [PG] underground city when its warranty has clearly expired. A great little kids film with a few scares but mostly a lot of imagination.

 City of God 9 The slum-dwelling youth of a future Brazilian reporter is dramatized in Lund, Kátia and Meirelles, F (2002) Crime [R] unflinching detail. Very involving slice of life story about what it takes to survive in an urban wasteland.  City of Lost Children, The 8 This is all mood and style, but what a trip of a movie. A madman who Jeunet, Jean-Pierre; Caro, M (1995) Fantasy / can't dream kidnaps children and steals theirs. Black Comedy

 Civil Action, A 7 An absorbing courtroom drama about corporate negligence. Zaillian, Steven (1998) Drama [PG-13]

 Class, The 9 Director Cantet used three cameras, real students and teachers Cantet, Laurent (2008) Drama [PG-13] improvising on top of a script with real-life teacher and author François Bégaudeau to create a year in a French grammar class that puts you as close to the unadorned experience as being in the class yourself.

 Classic Albums: the Dark Side of 9 Truly fascinating recounting of making the album by the Floyd, the Moon Parson, et. al., with both Gilmour and Waters doing solo acoustic versions of some songs. Watching the tape containing the "Money" Longfellow, Matthew (2003) Documentary [G] rhythm track looping around a microphone stand and back into the tape deck is a hoot.  Clerks 7 Kevin Smith's debut movie, in which various foul-mouthed McJobbers Smith, Kevin (1994) Comedy / Black [R] do a lot of really funny things.  Clerks II 7 Although it would be hard to top the experience of first meeting these  Smith, Kevin (2006) Comedy [R] characters, this is a funny, credible sequel to the original.

 Click 8 Adam Sandler pulls off a nicely balanced, emphathetic performance Coraci, Frank (2006) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] as an architect whose wish for more control over his life is granted by an affable Genie turned Gadget Guru , with unsurprising "read the fine print, bozo" results that nevertheless produce some unexpected poignancy.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 28 Jim's Video List C  Climax 7 An interesting, partially improvised study of how high-strung dancers  Noé, Gaspar (2018) Drama / Horror [R] might react to an unexpected LSD experience. Although not as shocking as a typical horror movie, it nevertheless takes you through a truly unsettling experience that also spends a lot of time celebrating modern dance.

 Clockstoppers 7 (2002) Sci-fi [PG]

 Closed Circuit 7 A tangled mystery thriller that does a decent job of involving you in Crowley, John (2013) Thriller [R] the very, very sticky situation in which the characters find themselves: two lawyers with a history defending a terrorist under the eyes of a hyper-paranoid national security agency.

 Closer 7 The romantic and obsessive interplay, over several years, between Nichols, Mike (2004) Drama [R] four people who need a bit more self-control.

 Cloud Atlas 8 Not perfectly successful, yet hardly something you should miss, as Tykwer, T & Wachowski Brothers (2012) Fantasy high-concept meets fantasy action. Extra points for making you / Drama [R] puzzle out who plays some of the characters, because it ain't so easy.

 Cloverfield 9 My fantasy is to be a person who had not seen any of the previews Reeves, Matt (2008) Horror [PG-13] for this before watching it. What starts out as a cinema-verite, shaky camera twenty-something comedy drama goes off the tracks in a very big way about twenty minutes into it and the "you are there" quality of its packaging often hits the peg on the voltage meter. Good sound system (or headphones) highly recommended.

 Clueless 9 This modernized adaptation of "Emma" transforms the title character Heckerling, Amy (1995) Comedy [PG-13] into Cher, the well-meaning but cluelessly spoiled daughter of a Beverly Hills attack dog lawyer, endlessly rocking her 90210 lifestyle while trying to make life better for the non-Betties of the world. The result is a perfect little comedy about waking up to reality—or at least, a slightly more accurate version of it.

 Coco 10 A boy who wants to be a musician chafes in a family with a history of Unkrich, L & Molina, A (2017) Fantasy [PG] hating them. With the help of spirits inspired by the Mexican Día de Muertos, he goes on a journey to achieve that goal, but the path he takes is nothing if not surprising. Ingeniously plotted and consistently well reviewed, this one lives up to its hype.  Coffee and Cigarettes 7 Uneven but often brilliant collection of B&W shorts featuring two or  Jarmusch, Jim (2004) Drama / Comedy [R] three actors interacting over the titular consumables.  Coherence 8 On the night that a mysterious comet is visible, eight friends gather  Byrkit, James Ward (2013) Sci-fi [NR] for a dinner party that builds to a series of delightfully awesome WTF moments. Despite being mostly shot in a living room with a miniscule budget, this is a perfect little science-fiction film.

 Cold Comfort Farm 8 When a slightly spoiled but resourceful upper-crust debutante finds Schlesinger, John (1995) Comedy [PG] herself needing relatives with which to stay, she chooses the family most in need of "improvement." Very dry hilarity is the result as dogged English resolve meets festering English lunacy.

 Collateral 8 A cabbie picks up a passenger with a disturbing to-do list. Much Mann, Michael (2004) Thriller [R] better if you have never seen the %@#% previews.

 Collateral Damage 7 (2002) Thriller [R]  Color Out of Space, The 7 A generally successful stab at creating otherwordly weirdness in a  Stanley, Richard (2019) Horror [UR] modernized version of the H. P. Lovecraft story. Despite the injection of slightly skewed humor, I don't think the phrase "Everything is going to be okay" has been repeated more often and been more wrong.  Colossal 7 A young woman failing at everything except partying returns to her  Vigalondo, Nacho (2016) Drama / Comedy [R] empty family home to regroup, then discovers her really strange connection to a monster ravaging Seoul. Wildly imaginative, often funny and sometimes scary--but not due to the monster you would expect. From the guy who gave us "Timecrimes."

 Columbus 8 Two people with family issues meet and have a profound effect on Kogonada (2017) Drama [NR] each other, using the rich architecture of Columbus, Ohio as methaphors and catalysts. A stately character-driven drama about the ability to change.  Comedian 9 Filmed after putting his TV show to bed, this documentary details and Charles, Christian (2002) Documentary / Comedy compares Jerry Seinfeld's methodical development of a new stand-up [R] act to that of a rising unknown. Both strive to reach the heights of the comic gods, where dwelleth Bill Cosby.

 Commitments, The 9 One of the classic movies for music lovers: In Dublin, a wanna-be Parker, Alan (1991) Comedy / Musical [R] empresario tries to put together a cover band playing American soul music—and keep them together until they "break." The result is an entertaining window into the difficulties of the music business—and accidentally becomes the natural prologue to 2006's equally wonderful "Once."

 Company Men, The 8 The tension between corporate profits and the human stories from Wells, John (2010) Drama [R] which they are pulled is the backdrop to this story about downsized executives. Although technically inspiring, it's not exactly recommended for anyone in the middle of a downturn, especially if they are not from the boardroom class depicted here.

 Company, The 8 Those who think of "plot" the same way they do "ketchup" will go Altman, Robert (2003) Drama [PG-13] hungry here, but those who hunger for an artfully-presented, inside view of a world-class ballet company will be more than satisfied.

 Computer Chess 7 Set in the days of the earliest attempts to develop the algorithms Bujalski, Andrew (2013) Comedy [UR] needed to create chess-playing computers, this satirizes the characters who inhabited that world while strongly suggesting the director has a soft spot for "Last Year at Marienbad."

 Con Air 7 (1997) Action [R]  Confessions of a Dangerous Mind 8 Based on the "autobiography" of The Gong Show's Chuck Barris, in  Clooney, George (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] which he claims to have been a CIA assassin during his mysterious absences while his shows were at their height. His story is aided and abetted by a group of big names.

 Confidence 7 Well-executed con movie with a good-to-great cast, but which doesn't Foley, James (2003) Crime [R] quite pull us in emotionally.

 Conjuring 2, The 8 This sequel has our investigative couple in England, dealing with a Wan, James (2016) Horror [R] family haunted by a pretty serious evil spirit (even worse if you went to a Catholic elementary school).

 Conjuring, The 8 A nice throwback to the straightforward horror movies based on plot Wan, James (2013) Horror [R] and making you jump, as a couple investigates paranormal happenings at a New England hourse. Although the "R" rating is probably deserved, this has none of the torture porn of so many other recent movies.

 Conspiracy Theory 8 An enjoyable action movie for those with a suspicion about, well, Donner, Richard (1997) Action / Adventure [R] everything. A treat for Lone Gunmen everywhere.

 Constant Gardener, The 10 An English diplomat posted to Africa tries to solve the mystery of his Meirelles, Fernando (2005) Drama [R] wife's death, sinking deeper into a cesspool of international corporate politics.

 Contact 9 Aliens want us to contact them and Jodie Foster is ready. The (1997) Sci-fi [PG] well-balanced science vs. religion issues are a nice plus.

 Contraband 7 A retired smuggler is sucked back into the business by a relative's Kormákur, Baltasar (2012) Thriller [R] bad choices. A decently interesting caper is the result.

 Conviction 8 The sister of a man whom she is convinced was framed for a murder Goldwyn, Tony (2010) Drama [R] spends a good chunk of her life (and his) finding the true story of what happened.

 Cook the Thief His Wife & Her 8 A movie about ugliness trampling beauty and beauty's revenge, told Lover, The in a way that almost overpowers the senses. Greenaway, Peter (1989) Drama [R]

 Cooler, The 9 The luck of a consummate loser begins to turn for the better — and Kramer, Wayne (2003) Comedy / Film Noir [R] that's bad news if your job at a mob-owned casino is to bring people bad luck.

 Corman's World: Exploits of a 8 Tells the absorbing story of B-movie king Roger Corman, who pretty Hollywood Rebel much invented the independent movie industry while launching a group of directors and stars who are now major players. Stapleton, Alex (2011) Documentary [R]

 Corporation, The 9 This is required viewing for anyone interested in the effects of the Abbott, J & Achbar, M (2003) Documentary [NR] modern corporation on our lives, delving into the early history and modern behavior of the business world's Frankenstein's monster. If only the 14th Amendment had been worded just a bit differently...

 Corpse Bride 8 A very traditional Victorian era musical, except for the maggots Burton, Tim (2005) Comedy / Musical [PG-13] occupying the female lead. Often very funny but not up to the level of a classic.

 Count of Monte Cristo, The 7 A reasonable adaptation of the Dumas novel, although it definitely Reynolds, Kevin (2002) Adventure [PG-13] goes overboard at times.

 Counterfeiters, The 9 Based on a true story, in which an accomplished Jewish counterfeiter Ruzowitzky, Stefan (2007) Drama [R] finds himself in a concentration camp with a deal he can't refuse: Help the German finance their war with heaps of bogus cash, or die. A fascinating slice of little-known war history that will make you ask yourself some serious questions.

 Crank 7 In a modern re-make of "D.O.A.," a hit man gets hit himself by a Taylor, B and Neveldine, M (2006) Thriller [R] gangster interested in a slow, painful death, but finds a way to keep himself alive long enough to exact a spectacular amount of revenge. The end of the soundtrack carries a bit of hint about his fate.

 Crash 7 Sex and car accidents seem to mix. Cronenberg, David (1997) Thriller [NC-17]

 Crash 9 An assortment of LA people have an impact on each others' lives in Haggis, Paul (2004) Drama [R] ways that leave you thinking about how easy it is to hate each other. Great drama, even if it depends on a lot of coincidences to create the thought-provoking contrasts.

 Crazies, The 8 With Timothy Olyphant as the local sherriff, a "virus that got away" Eisner, Breck (2010) Horror [R] starts eliminating, or rather, obliterating that classic small town neighborliness from a community in Iowa.

 Crazy, Stupid Love 8 A nice twist on the buddy film, in which a introvert with a failed Ficarra, G & Requa, J (2011) Comedy [PG-13] marriage is "tutored" in the ways of seduction by an acquaintance. With surprises and surprising plot twists, things go in unexpected directions that are still paths of the heart.

 Creeping Terror, The 1 They lost the original soundtrack so a narrator does the play-by-play Nelson, Arthur (1964) Bad / Sci-fi [G] about a shuffling carpet from space that roams the countryside and very slowly eats some incredibly stupid people.

 Crimes and Misdemeanors 8 Woody Allen crafts a moral tale about a man deciding how to handle Allen, Woody (1989) Comedy [PG-13] a threat to his life and image, expertly mixing comedy and drama.

 Crimson Peak 7 Dripping atmosphere (and other stuff), del Toro's penchant for telling Toro, Guiermo Del (2015) Horror [R] seriously creepy ghost stories is on full display, although it does not add up to as much excitement as one might hope.

 Criss Cross 7 A classic star-crossed lovers tale mixed with a slightly ahead of its Siodmak, Robert (1949) Crime [PG] time armored car caper: Is she bad? Is she good? Does he need to be bad? Is it better for your health not to ask questions like that?

 Cronos 7 Criminals search for a device that guarantees immortality. Toro, Guillermo Del (1993) Horror [R]

 Crossroads 8 A very un-nappyheaded white boy dreams of getting an old blues Hill, Walter (1986) Drama [R] legend to help him become a blues player cum rock star. Smart dialog, some very authentic background structure and a smoking guitar duel make this a good addition to any collection of movies about music.

 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 10 The definitive chop-socky art fantasy, with several strong Lee, Ang (2000) Drama / Martial Arts [PG-13] performances and a beautifully somber resolution. Although decently done, avoid the dubbed version.  Croupier 8 Slick and funny movie about a croupier who wants to outsmart the  Hodges, Mike (1998) Crime [R] larger game.

 Crow, The 8 An excellent example of Goth-rock crime thriller, oozing so much dark Proyas, Alex (1994) Action / Film Noir [R] atmosphere that its lead actor's spooky on-set death only adds to the impact.

 Cruel Intentions 8 A boy bets his wicked step-sister that he can ensnare a pious virgin Kumble, Roger (1999) Drama [R] (teens with raging hormones remake "Dangerous Liaisons").

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 32 Jim's Video List C  Crumb 10 Bio of the "Keep on Truckin'" cartoonist and his seriously  Zwigoff, Terry (1994) Documentary [R] whacked-out family. A real car-wreck of a movie that nevertheless illustrates the power of the human psyche to deal with emotional abuse.

 Crying Game, The 9 When, for personal reasons, an Irish terrorist tracks down the Jordan, Neil (1992) Drama [R] girlfriend of an English soldier, events take a turn for which he, and the audience, is extraordinarily unprepared. One of cinema's great twists turns what looks like a thriller into a major after-the-show conversation piece.

 Crónicas 9 A rising star in South American news media, who believes he may be Cordero, Sebastián (2004) Drama [R] on the trail of a brutal serial killer, battles the temptations of sensationalism. Extremely effective and chilling. CULT  Glen Or Glenda 1 After "Plan 9," this "exposé" of transvestism is the quintissential Ed  Wood, Jr., Edward D. (1953) Bad / Drama [NR] Wood movie, containing everything that marks Wood as a true auteur—of incredibly bad movies—but an auteur nevertheless: Bad acting, inexplicable dialog, unexplainable fantasy sequences and Bela Lugosi ranting about puppy dog tails. Oh yes.  Plan 9 From Outer Space 1 This is the classic "bad" movie against which other movies are  Wood, Jr., Edward D. (1958) Bad / Sci-fi [G] judged. Bela Lugosi appears briefly before leaving Wood adrift by dying. Inspired the biographical movie "Ed Wood" which makes a great double-feature with this one.  Performance 8 A criminal on the run from the London mob is sheltered by a jaded  Cammell, D. & Roeg, N. (1970) Drama [NC-17] rock star with some strange personal issues. One of the classic 70's psychedelic films, with some extraordinarily interesting trivia associated with it, the earliest rock video and even proto-rap (The Last Poets) on the soundtrack.  Harold and Maude 9 A young man's obsession with death (and the frequent faking of his  Ashby, Hal (1971) Comedy / Drama [PG] own) collides with the unstoppable force of a elderly woman bent on wringing every possible joy from the time she has remaining. A solid classic of independent film that should not be missed.  Rocky Horror Picture Show, The 9 One of the ultimate "now for something completely different" movies,  Sharman, Jim (1975) Comedy / Musical [R] a consistently amusing, over-the-top, very counter-cultural parody of science fiction cliches within a dead-on rock and roll musical.  Man Who Fell To Earth, The 6 One of the classic cult films, starring David Bowie as a Martian who  Roeg, Nicolas (1976) Sci-fi [R] gets sidetracked from his mission to save his dying planet.  Eraserhead 7 If you think you that David Lynch makes strange films and have not  Lynch, David (1977) Fantasy [NR] yet seen his first full-length feature, you don't know what strange IS. The story of Henry, his girlfriend (and her whacked out family) and their baby ("...at least, they think it's a baby"), is told in the style of a black-humor and white-knuckles industrial waste nightmare. It is disturbing, deeply symbolic and yet funny. You cannot claim to be in the "cult movie" club without seeing this one. It will stick with you.  Warriors, The 7 A street gang unexpectedly gets caught far from its turf and must  Hill, Walter (1979) Action [R] fight its way back home. Hardly a cultural masterpiece, yet it is still one of the seminal works of violent, stylized urban near-fantasy films.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 33 CULT  Liquid Sky 7 An abused fashion model discovers she is the unwitting pusher to a  Tsukerman, Slava (1982) Sci-fi [R] tiny spaceship of full of dopamine addicts. One of the truly unique ones, a galactic convergence of lack of money, an alien perspective (of the New York glam punk scene), over-the-top set pieces and a truly unearthly soundtrack, this is an experience that should not be missed.  Streets of Fire 7 A ex-soldier returns to rescue his pop star girlfriend, who has been  Hill, Walter (1984) Action [PG] kidnapped by an axe-wielding Willem Dafoe. A sterling example of a B-movie that rises above its class based on it archetypes and its music.  Re-Animator 7 This "Frankenstein as biology nerd" gore-fest set a standard for  Gordon, Stuart (1985) Horror / Comedy [R] gruesomely campy B-movie horror until "Dead Alive" raised the bar into the ozone layer.

 Deadly Prey 1 The "Creeping Terror" of Rambo wannabes. Produces many absurd Prior, David A. (1987) Bad / Adventure [ R] moments of unintended laughter.  Bad Taste 6 Peter Jackson's first movie, made on a budget with a camera that  Jackson, Peter (1987) Sci-fi / Horror [NR] shot 30 seconds at a time, is a humorous, wildly over-the-top gore-fest about space aliens invading a New Zealand town. Don't say you weren't warned.  Miami Connection 1 The story of a pop rock band, who happen to be orphans... and live  Park, Woo-sang (1987) Bad / Martial Arts [UR] together in the same house... and are all Tae Kwon Do experts. They are pitted against motorcycle ninjas who control the Miami drug trade, headed by their lead singer's brother, who must have the weakest impulse control in movie history. Painfully entertaining (in a good way).  Killer Klowns From Outer Space 7 Classic cult movie in which aliens with an odd resemblance to every  Chiodo, Stephen (1988) Comedy / Horror clown-o-phobic kid's worst nightmare turn a town's population into the equivalent of juice boxes. Definitely a "B" movie, but too wildly imaginative to pass up.  Lady Terminator 1 There is no need for an MST3K treatment here. This Indonesian  Djalil, H. Tjut (1989) Bad / Horror [R] bloodfest attempts to replicate the basics of "The Terminator" in a hilarious collision of South Asian culture, bad dubbing and even worse mullets, using a female lead who is controlled by the vengeful spirit of a "South Seas witch" instead of Skynet — a legendary sexual bogey-woman with an "appetite" about which the abstinence-only Sex Ed crowd would heartily approve.  Twin Peaks 9 David Lynch's seminal, game-changing TV show, about the pervasive Lynch, David & others (1990) Thriller / Comedy Pacific rain forest weirdness surrounding the murder of a high school [TV-MA] girl, laid the groundwork for much of the off-kilter shows that followed. It went off the rails in the middle of season 2 due to Lynch's refocusing on movie projects, but with the short Season 1 it was clearly structured through Season 2's episode 9 as a complete story. My advice: Stop there.  Troll 2 1 Highly recommended if you are 1) with a group of quick-witted friends Fragasso, Claudio (1991) Bad / Horror [PG-13] and 2) under the influence, otherwise you may not quite appreciate the charm of this extemporaneously plotted piece of unintentionally hilarious crap. The preponderance of Italian names in the creative team may explain why the English dialog sucks so badly or why the word "troll" does not appear in the script at all. Also see the

 Dead Alive 8 A sort of "Evil Dead II" on designer steroids, Peter Jackson's take on  Jackson, Peter (1992) Horror / Comedy [NR] zombie movies achieves a funny/gross index that has never been equaled. Consider yourself forewarned (but DO NOT rent the shorter "R" version).  Last Seduction, The 8 The quintissential take-no-prisoners woman-in-the-driver's seat  Dahl, John (1994) Thriller / Film Noir [R] movie. This role is why Linda Fiorentino says "some people worship me" in "Men in Black."  Ed Wood 8 A very entertaining biography of the shoot-from-the-hip director of  Burton, Tim (1994) Comedy / Drama [R] such truly awful movies as "Plan 9 From Outer Space" and "Glen or Glenda?"  Ghost in the Shell, The 9 Despite its obvious appeal to teen males, this is an excellent adult  Oshii, Mamoru (1995) Sci-fi / Sci Fi [R] animation about an android cop and her need to understand the nature of her existence. Stunning visuals float in a moody soundtrack, philosophical musings about the Soul are puncuated by intense action.  Pi 8 The X-Files meets ultra-orthodox Judaism: a mathematics genius  Aronofsky, Darren (1998) Thriller / Sci Fi [R] tortured by migraines believes he has found a number sequence that explains...well, a LOT of stuff and everyone wants a piece of him.  Office Space 8 Although it eventually settles into a more pedestrian comedy, anyone  Judge, Mike (1999) Comedy [R] who has worked in the corporate world will howl at the details woven into this movie. Unless you don't "get" it, in which case you must be one of the characters on the screen...and may God have mercy on you.  Audition 8 A lonely widower looks for a new wife via an "audition" scheme  Miike, Takashi (1999) Horror / Thriller [R] hatched by a film industry friend. This is a truly great shocker—especially given its "misogynist buddy comedy" beginning—and the less you know about it the better. Not for the squeamish.  Tears of the Black Tiger 7 Digitally colorized into a flourescent orgasm for users of various  Sasanatieng, Wisit (2000) Action [R] contraband, this incandescent mixture of retro Thai romance, Italian Western and Sam Raimi thrills is something you will want to pull out any time the "right" folks are visiting.  Mulholland Drive 8 David Lynch produces a brilliant modern-noir dream that begs for  Lynch, David (2001) Thriller [R] analysis even as it defiantly resists such an idea.  Donnie Darko 9 A teenage boy in therapy and on medication begins to see paranoid  Kelly, Richard (2001) Drama / Comedy [R] hallucinations and to believe he is being asked to be the saviour of the Universe. But is this drama, science fiction or...documentary? This "John Hughes meets David Lynch" movie is hilarious, mystifying and emotionally touching. It will stay with you even though the first viewing is like waking from a dream with a serious case of "WTF?" To experience properly, watch the "original" theatrical release first, then whenever the "I need to see that again" happens, the "Director's Cut" is a little more accessible, but slightly less mystical.  Call of Cthulhu, The 7 An indie version of the Lovecraft story about a horrific ancient god,  Leman, Andrew (2005) Horror [UR] but done as a dead serious, 20's style silent movie that manages to get a LOT of atmospheric bang out of its obviously scarce bucks. A

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 35 CULT  Call of Cthulhu, The reworking with a CGI monster might make it a commercial contender, but as an example of what inspired talent can do, it's a winner.  Idiocracy 8 While two hapless victims of a military experiment sleep, the human  Judge, Mike (2006) Comedy / Sci-fi [R] race devolves to its lowest common denominator in this sci-fi satire that answers the question "What's the worst that could happen?" with a sledgehammer. It loses its edge as it tries to develop something resembling a plot, yet the film is (to use an appropriate term) littered with so many seditiously hilarious gags that it begs a second viewing.  Viva 7 A constantly amusing, although overlong, camp parody of 1970's  Biller, Anna (2007) Comedy [R] sexploitation movies by the writer/director/star who later made the critically-acclaimed "The Love Witch." Some rightfully question whether it is possible to deliberately create kitsch. Here the answer is "yes."  Machine Girl, The 6 With half of a tongue firmly in cheek — and the other half lying on a  Iguchi, Noboru (2008) Action / Comedy [UR] plate (you've been warned), this enthsiastically gory Japanese revenge flick lets loose not just both but multiple revolving barrels of splattering mayhem that one may find hard to top without being a full-time watcher of shock movies.  Best Worst Movie 8 The child star of "Troll 2," a film many consider to be even worse than Stephenson, Michael (2009) Documentary / "Plan 9," returns to document the current lives of the film's stars and Comedy [NR] its still cluelessly self-impressed Italian production team. Well worth the time for pulling us into the very different lives of those involved and as a study of the way a cult film "happens."  Machete 8 For anyone who saw the fake trailer for this movie in the middle of the Rodriguez, R & Maniquis, E (2010) Action / "Grindhouse" double-feature and thought "They really ought to make Comedy [R] that movie!"...here ya' go and it delivers on what the blood-spattered, self-parodying trailer promised in spades — or rather, machetes. Includes guest shots by a lot of fine actors (plus Steven Seagal) and a very humorous throwaway joke involving Robert De Niro's choice of getaway car.  Cabin in the Woods, The 9 Co-written with Joss Whedon, this is the "college kids in the woods"  Goddard, Drew (2012) Horror / Comedy [R] movie to end all "college kids in the woods" movies, an extremely funny, endlessly inventive horror movie. It goes beyond being a clever riff to deconstruct and "explain" the whole genre. Warning: the ding of elevators arriving may trigger you for the rest of your life.  Love Witch, The 7 Biller again weaves kitsch and meticulously accurate period design  Biller, Anna (2016) Comedy [NR] into a fascinating and funny pseudo-exploitation flick, about a witch in search of true love. C

 Cure 7 Normal people begin acting out their deepest and darkest emotions Kurosawa, Kiyoshi (1997) Horror [R] and leaving a grisly "mark" on their victims. An exercise in tense horror/crime that ultimately relies more on its creepy mood than logic.

 Curse of the Golden Flower 8 A heady mix of 2/3 Shakespearean tragedy and 1/3 Busby Zhang, Yimou (2007) Drama / Action [R] Berkeley-scale Kung Fu for people with a taste for psilocybin.

 Curse of the Jade Scorpion 8 A classic 30's-style whodunit with Woody Allen's unmistakable style Allen, Woody (2001) Comedy / Mystery [PG-13] of dialog and some great character-driven twists.

 Cursed 7 Mildly effective werewolf movie that could have capitalized a little Craven, Wes (2005) Horror [R] more on the Los Angeles culture that is its setting. See "Ginger Snaps" for a better example. D

 D.O.A. 8 A hapless accountant discovers he has a short time to live and Maté, Rudolph (1950) Mystery / Film Noir [NR] spends the rest of his life trying to find out why. One of the classic noirs.

 Da Vinci Code, The 7 A screen-adaptation that proves that sometimes you just need to Howard, Ron (2006) Mystery [PG-13] read the book. Not bad, but Brown's book is all about the details and having time to absorb the implications of what they seem to mean.

 Daddy Day Care 7 (2003) Comedy [PG]

 Dan in Real Life 8 A widower, who writes an advice column while suppressing his own Hedges, Peter (2007) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] needs to raise three daughters, rediscovers love in the most complicated way you could imagine. A great little movie about family and the way people can lose themselves without realizing it.

 Dances with Wolves 8 Costner seems to have been lucky in producing this resonant tale of Costner, Kevin (1990) Drama / Western [PG-13] a white man who learns Indian culture (see: The Postman).

 Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys, 8 Two boys deals with the boredom of life in a parochial school, using The one's ability to draw comic art as an escape. Care, Peter (2002) Drama [R]

 Dark 8 A vast woods, a cave system full of unexpected connections (ha ha Odar, B & Friese, J (2017) Sci-fi / Drama ha!), a towering nuclear power plant and a 33-year cycle of child [TV-MA] disappearances mix with a secret society and some gorgeous retro technology. Oh, and the family secrets are not those of your average family. Nope. Its only problem: you need a chart to follow all the characters over the course of a century—but beware of spoilers if you download one.

 Dark Blue 7 Murder and treachery in the Los Angeles police department amid the Shelton, Ron (2002) Crime [R] Watts riots, centering on a not-so-clean detective.  Dark City 9 Sci-Fi mystery noir: Asks not only "what is reality" but "why does it  Proyas, Alex (1998) Sci-fi / Film Noir [R] keep changing every night?"

 Dark Days 9 A Briton who befriended and lived in a homeless "village" in the rail Singer, Marc (2000) Documentary [UR] tunnels below New York decides to make a movie about their lives and stories. Don't miss this (and be sure to watch the "extras.")

 Dark Portals: the Chronicles of 7 A nicely done French entry into the steam-punk super-sleuth genre. Vidocq Pitof (2001) Action [UR]

 Das Boot 9 It is hard to believe that a film set almost entirely within the Petersen, Wolfgang (1981) Adventure / Historical claustrophoic confines of a German U-boat could keep you riveted for [R] three and a half hours, but this story of a German crew's tour of duty — as the Allies finally learn to defend themselves from their submersibles — does it effortlessly.

 Dave Chappelle's Block Party 8 A very entertaining, positive film following the efforts of comedian Gondry, Michel (2006) Documentary [R] Dave Chappelle to throw a huge party and invite a bunch of people (some bused from his home town) to it.

 Day the Earth Stood Still, The 9 A visitor from space brings a friendly warning from above, Wise, Robert (1951) Sci-fi [PG] accompanied by one of the most elegantly frightening companions of early science fiction cinema.

 Day Watch 8 The sequel to the formidably stylish "Night Watch" finds The Others Bekmambetov, Timur (2006) Fantasy / Action [R] advancing towards an apocalyptic clash. The same mix of tightly choreographed action mixed with a spooky backstory and well-timed humor works as well as in the first. DC COMICS

 Watchmen 8 Snyder takes the Chris Columbus approach (a la "Harry Potter") to Snyder, Zack (2009) Action [R] reproduce a textually complex graphic novel on film, sans one pirate and with an ending altered by a slightly more logical idea. It's generally successful in keeping those who have only seen the movie from wondering if they should have read the book — is that good or bad?.

 Suicide Squad 7 A team of super-criminals is volunteered (via exploding neck bands) Ayer, David (2016) Fantasy / Action [R] into fighting a threat to the country. Although it works on more than one level, it's hard to pull off anti-heroes like these without leaving a lot of cognitive dissonance residue. Jared Leto appears briefly as a Joker no one really needs.

 Wonder Woman 9 Although Christopher Reeve's original Superman was one of the Jenkins, Patty (2017) Fantasy / Action [PG-13] better examples, Jenkins' entry finally elevated DC into the top of the genre: a great story and heartfelt acting based on genuine emotion combine with blistering action. One of the best.

 Justice League 7 A considerable improvement over the inexplicable "Batman V. Snyder, Zack (2017) Fantasy / Action [PG-13] Superman," especially with Gal Godot's and Ezra Miller's characters. However, this first entry in the DC equivalent to The Avengers doesn't quite achieve the level of same level of crisp, funny dialog (excepting a hilarious bit with WW's Lasso of Truth).

 Aquaman 7 Jason Mamoa makes a great Aquaman in a serviceable entry for the Wan, James (2018) Fantasy / Action [PG-13] DC line. However, the movie doesn't leave a lasting impression.

 Birds of Prey 7 Subtitle: "And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn" Yan, Cathy (2020) Action [R] Delightfully over the top yet it doesn't quite gel the way an origin movie might because of too many stories to tell. Credit is due, though, for using a very comic-book setting for the final fight without resorting to the kind of campiness that it normally attracts. D

 Death At a Funeral 9 This English comedy by an American director builds slowly to the Oz, Frank (2007) Comedy [R] most nightmarishly funny funeral you could possibly imagine. Not to be missed (but DO miss the American remake, which miscasts and wastes its talented ensemble).

 Deceived 7 Art world professionals marry, but not all is as it appears. The movie Harris, Damian (1991) Thriller [PG-13] works well enough to make the casual viewer miss the reliance on stock cliches.

 Deconstructing Harry 7 An uneven Woody Allen comedy about an actor who has lost his Allen, Woody (1997) Comedy [R] edge.

 Deep Impact 7 (1998) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Defendor 8 Woody Harrelson shines as a somewhat mentally-challenged man Stebbings, Peter (2009) Drama / Comedy [R] who fights crime in this darkly humorous but respectfully dramatic take on the amateur "super hero" genre.

 Defiance 9 The remnants of a Russian Jewish family lead 1200 refugees to Zwick, Edward (2008) Drama / Action [R] safety in the Belorussian forests. Beautifully acted rendition of a true story that defies common prejudices.

 Deja Vu 8 Skillful action sequences help raise the final grade on this police Scott, Tony (2006) Thriller [PG-13] procedural enhanced by some seriously high-tech tools.

 Delicacy 7 The death of her lover leaves a woman stunted in her emotional life, Foenkinos, D & Foenkinos, S (2011) Romance / until an unlikely suitor suffers through the process of waking her up. A Comedy [PG-13] fun romance that plays with the usual clichés.  Delicatessen 8 Often hilarious post-apocalyptic black comedy / romance between an  Jeunet, Jean-Pierre; Caro, M (1991) Fantasy / ex-clown and a butcher's daughter—a butcher forced to find an illegal Comedy [R] source for meat.

 Delirious 8 Consistently funny comedy-romance set within an over-the-top satire Dicillo, Tom (2006) Comedy [R] of the fame industry and those who feed off of it. More proof that any movie with Steve Buscemi is worth a shot.

 Departed, The 9 A detective and an undercover cop dance around the danger of trying Scorsese, Martin (2006) Crime [R] to fool criminals without becoming indistinguishable from one. A remake of "Mou gaan dou."

 Derailed 7 A troubled family man wanders into an affair that leads to a surprising Håfström, Mikael (2005) Thriller [R] amount of trouble. No, really, I've haven't seen anyone this thoroughly screwed since Bicycle Thief, but to its credit, the movie does not hint at where the ending might go. DO NOT WATCH THE TRAILER!

 Descendants, The 8 A family deals with its own internal problems while its extended Payne, Alexander (2011) Drama / Comedy [R] version grapples with the sale of a huge tract of Hawaiian real estate. Well-acted and worth a watch.

 Desperado 9 The sequel to "El Mariachi" takes up a few years later as the hapless Rodriguez, Robert (1995) Action [R] singer has become a fearsome legend among criminals and is now aiming at Moco's until now unseen boss. Unlike some directors who get sloppy with sudden funding, Rodriquez stays true to his lean and hungry filmmaking, with only his imagination given to excess.

 Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! 8 A young Bengali stumbles into a career as a detective in this murder Banerjee, Dibakar (2015) Mystery [NR] mystery turned international thriller. It's set in 1940's Calcutta and based on a series of novels that debued in the 1930s, evoking a serious noir atmosphere along with its exotic setting.

 Detective Dee and the Mystery of 8 Highly entertaining Wuxia-style mystery in which mysterious deaths the Phantom Flame are associated with completion of a towering statue amid the rise of China's first Empress. In addition to superbly transparent wire-work, Tsui, Hark (2010) Mystery / Fantasy [PG-13] the digital effects are easily the equal of the best Western productions.

 Devdas 7 The fourth remake of this Bollywood drama about star-crossed lovers Bhansali, Sanjay Leela (2002) Drama [PG] who miss their connections features the always delectable Aishwarya Rai and the apparently omnipresent Shahrukh Khan.

 Devil and Daniel Johnston, The 8 A portrait of a "tortured genius" that manages to demonstrate the Feuerzeig, Jeff (2005) Documentary [PG-13] unique path that can lead to fame, the bit about the tortured friends and family that history tends to gloss over and the difference that a loving family can make in spite of it all. The MPA rating is a tad liberal for the easily shocked.

 Devil's Advocate 8 (1997) Thriller [R]

 Devil's Backbone, The 8 A murder, a ghost, hidden gold and the Spanish Civil War all come Del Toro, Guillermo (2001) Drama / Horror [R] together in this eerie drama set in a remote orphanage. The director considered this the "brother" to Pan's Labyrinth.

 Devil's Rejects, The 7 The sequel to "House of 1000 Corpses" takes up where we left off Zombie, Rob (2005) Horror [R] and the perfectly recreated 70's gore genre lives on in all its unpleasantness.

 Dhamma Brothers, The 8 The introduction of a non-sectarian meditation program had profound Kukura, Phillips & Stein (2008) Documentary [UR] effects on the criminals who sign up for it. The film demonstrates something said in the film: Human beings are much more than one major mistake.

 Diary of a Chambermaid 9 A young woman from Paris finds a position in a house of oddballs, Buñuel, Luis (1964) Drama [PG-13] both aristocrats and servants. This character study by the director known more for surrealism is very accessible, but better appreciated by a grounding in film history.

 Die Hard 9 This is the film that probably did the most for Bruce Willis' career, a McTiernan, John (1988) Action [R] well-constructed actioner that uses Willis' good-hearted loner persona extremely well.

 Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge 7 A strong-willed father arranges a marriage in India for his Chopra, Aditya (1995) Romance [PG] English-raised daughter as her irresponsible boyfriend decides to pursue her. A classic Bollywood love story, kitchen sink included, with what has to be the scariest Dad in recent movie history.

 Dinner At Eight 8 Although billed as a comedy (and it is funny), this is much more a Cukor, George (1933) Drama / Comedy [UR] study of character and social milieu, given that it is more about the people who will be attending a fancy dinner than the dinner itself.

 Dinner For Schmucks 8 This remake of "The Dinner Game" takes a slightly different path Roach, Jay (2010) Comedy [PG-13] through hell but manages to produce a healthy laugh count.

 Dinner Game, The 9 A publisher participates in a weekly dinner where each "regular" Veber, Francis (1998) Comedy [PG-13] competes to bring the biggest idiot as a guest, until he stumbles upon the Godzilla of idiots.

 Dinner Rush 8 An ensemble of wait staff, cooks, art snobs and a couple of gangster Giraldi, Bob (2000) Comedy / Drama [R] wannabes deliver an entertaining night of nouveau cuisine and traditional mayhem at a restaurant in transition.

 Dinosaur 8 The End of the World! ...for dinosaurs, as Disney mixes live action Leighton, R. and Zontag, R (2000) Fantasy [PG] backgrounds with photo-realistic dinosaurs in the period leading up to a rather unfortunate meteor strike. It's Disney, though, so after an impressively naturalistic beginning, the damn things start to talk.

 Dirty Filthy Love 9 A very funny and empathetic look at a man whose life falls apart Shergold, Adrian (2004) Drama / Comedy [R] when he can no longer hide his mental disorders. Don't be misled by the in-joke in the title.

 Dirty Pretty Things 9 An illegal immigrant struggles with his moral code after discovering Frears, Stephen (2003) Thriller / Romance [R] an unsettling secret in the hotel where he works. A little humor and heartfelt romance mixed with a lot of tension against the background of immigrant exploitation.

 Disappearance of Alice Creed, The 9 An extremely well-constructed, often claustrophobically intense Blakeson, J (2009) Crime / Mystery [R] three-actor film about two kidnappers, their victim and the interplay among them.  Disaster Artist, The 8 This satirical homage/apologetic for Tommy Wiseau's "The Room"  Franco, James (2017) Comedy [R] successfully juggles three movies simultaneously: A hilarious but somehow affectionate satire of the movie, a believable portrayal of the very mysterious, indefatigable but seriously troubled Wiseau and a sort-of-inspiring, sort-of-demented "luck and pluck" story. Recommended but not required: Making it the second half of a double-feature with the original.

 Dish, The 8 Although there is exactly one "nutty" character too many, this tale, Sitch, Rob (2000) Comedy [PG-13] based on the true story of the Parkes, New South Wales connection to NASA's global communication network during the first moon landing, is beautifully balanced and often very funny. DISNEY

 Cinderella 8 Disney's classic entry in the "some day my prince will come" category Geronimi, Jackson & Luske (1950) Fantasy is effective, with some great songs. However, modern viewers will probably be too judgemental when comparing it to Branagh's heartftelt live action remake.

 Lady and the Tramp 9 The adventures of two mismatched dogs who fall in love. What's not Geronimi, Jackson, Luske, Cutting (1955) Comedy to like? [G]

 Sleeping Beauty 8 Another of Disney's go-to "princess" movies, with a young girl and her Geronimi, Clyde (1959) Fantasy [G] family cursed by a jealous witch until Mr. Perfect appears. Notable for the character design of Maleficent (especially in dragon form!). D

 District 9 9 A reversal of the usual cliches about alien invasion — E.T. wants to Blomkamp, Neill (2009) Sci-fi [R] go home, but needs a couple of bucks for gas — is the setting for a gleeful black comedy about corporate drones, treatment of the "other" and the splatter-index of bodies. The main character redefines the meaning of "hapless."

 District B13 8 To the category containing films like "Snatch," this very competent Morel, Pierre (2004) Action / Sci-fi [R] French thriller adds a near-future science fiction scenario leavened with stunningly athletic fights and chases.

 Divided We Fall 10 If anyone ever wants to know what "cognitive dissonance" means, let Hrebejk, Jan (2000) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] them watch this profoundly nuanced tale of co-workers and neighbors trapped in Nazi-occupied Czecholslovakia, a situation comedy from hell in which each person is clearly making choices aimed at retaining both their humanity and their life. What rises from the wreckage of their old lives is both somber and triumphant.

 Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya 8 This rises a bit above the average "chick flick" in telling the story of a Sisterhood daughter's "induction" into her mother's group of friends. Khouri, Callie (2002) Drama / Comedy [PG-13]

 Diving Bell and the Butterfly, The 9 After suffering a stroke that leaves him wholly cut off from the outside Schnabel, Julian (2007) Drama [PG-13] world except for one eye used as a semaphore, a man reexamines his life in the form of an auto-biographical recounting of his experience, blinked out one letter at a time.

 Django 7 A loner outlaw takes on all-comers in this seminal Spaghetti Western Corbucci, Sergio (1966) Action / Western [UR] that launched a long series of "Djano-esque" movies.

 Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story 8 Raucously funny silliness featuring Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn, Thurber, Rawson Marshall (2004) Comedy who are nothing if not pros at this, gunning for each other in the [PG-13] classic Darwinian shootout, along with some inspired cameos.

 Dog Soldiers 8 An honest, well-executed war/horror movie hybrid with a different sort Marshall, Neil (2002) Horror / Action [R] of enemy, or as the filmmakers heavily imply, "Zulu" with werewolves.

 Dogma 7 Although Catholics and ex-Catholics have a God-given right to Smith, Kevin (1999) Comedy [R] mercilessly lampoon the subject in the title, Smith's uneven parody doesn't achieve the truth of a "Life of Brian" or the subversiveness of "The Invention of Lying."

 Domino 8 The somewhat amped up version of the life of Domino Harvey, the Scott, Tony (2005) Action [R] offspring of a major British actor and a fashion model, who found her own path in a major way as a bounty hunter in LA. As an action flic, this hardly lets up, even though the plot gets a little contrived.

 Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far On 8 An entertaining bio of an alcholic who resurrected himself as a edgy Foot cartoonist. Sant, Gus Van (2018) Comedy / Drama [R]

 Doom Patrol 7 A collection of misfit meta-humans (and meta-inhumans) try to work Carver, Jeremy (2019) Adventure [TV-MA] together and mostly fail or succeed in spite of them themselves. Although you can't fault this series on its sheer inventiveness and its attention to character, ultimately the characters are mostly annoying and seem to take every opportunity to be as difficult as possible.

 Dope 9 A teenager on the road out of the ghetto takes a wild detour through Famuyiwa, Rick (2015) Drama / Comedy [R] the drug business and survives, putting it mildly. A great little comedy that makes some serious social points along the way.

 Dora and the Lost City of Gold 8 It doesn't break new ground as an adventure film, but this Bobin, James (2019) Adventure [PG] fish-out-of-water tale has some real surprises while it leaves you with an irrepressible positive vibe. Find an excuse to watch it, even if you are an aged curmudgeon.

 Dot the I 9 A romantic triangle, a possible stalker and some very interesting Parkhill, Matthew (2003) Drama [R] twists put this squarely into the "you need to see this one" category.

 Double Indemnity 8 This filmed version of the Raymond Chandler novel is one of the Wilder, Billy (1944) Thriller / Film Noir [NR] classics of film noir. Definitely a must see.

 Down By Law 8 Some very bad luck brings together three very different losers in a Jarmusch, Jim (1986) Drama [R] Louisiana prison cell. Something of a noir Oddysey that captures an incredible sense of New Orleans sleaze before wandering into the bayous.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 42 Jim's Video List D  Down With Love 8 Loving recreation of a 60's comedy romance with excellent dialog,  Reed, Peyton (2003) Comedy [PG-13] unexpected twists and some extremely clever throw-away jokes.

 Downfall 9 The last days of HItler, told from the perspective of survivors who Hirschbiegel, Oliver (2004) Drama [R] were in his Fuhrerbunker as the Soviets closed in. Tremendously well-acted glimpse of disturbing but real people, not cartoons, and the end of their dream...and everyone else's nightmare.

 Downsizing 9 A classic example of a film that takes a sci-fi concept and runs with it Payne, Alexander (2017) Comedy / Drama [R] to places you cannot foresee. It builds slowly (and the first 45 minutes needed trimming), then a new character slices through the film's rom-com surface to reveal a tough emotional core that indicts everything that preceded it.

 Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole 7 Possible a bit overdone in order to expand to a full-length movie, yet Christmas Jim Carrie positively inhabits the title role. Howard, Ron (2000) Fantasy [PG]

 Drag Me To Hell 9 A career-oriented loan officer succumbs to temptation and finds Raimi, Sam (2009) Horror [PG-13] herself with a very, very disatisfied customer. Hell breaks loose forthwith. Raimi once again demonstrates the difference between a master of the horror genre and the "torture pornographers" (whose sole talent is creative dismemberment) scaring the bejesus out of you using minimal gore (but plenty of his trademark "yuck!" factor).

 Dragon 9 Equal parts police procedural, Asian actioner and tale of moral Chan, Peter (2012) Action [R] redemption, this is an excellent example of a genre film with unexpected depth. DRAGON TATTOO

 Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The 9 A very raw-edged whodunit set in Sweden among the heirs of an Oplev, Niels Arden (2009) Thriller [R] industrialist, this film pairs a disgraced reporter with a twenty-something hacker stuck in a corrupted juvenile deliquent system (which yields two of the film's more disturbing — and then guiltily satisfying — set pieces). A treat for people looking for something beyond a run-of-the-mill thriller. Also see: Dragon Tattoo Trilogy.

 Girl Who Played With Fire, The 8 The second installment of the Stief Larsson mystery trilogy with Alfredson, Daniel (2009) Thriller [R] reporter Mikael Blomkvist and the vengence-adept hacker Lisbeth Salander finds our pair respectively sniffing out the secrets of a smuggler and being targeted in a frame-up. Some surprises are in store, although you know it won't go well for the bad guys.

 Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, 9 The final chapter in the Dragon Tattoo trilogy sees the web of The corruption, in which Lisbeth Salander was caught as a child, slowly come apart, and the series moves from its start as an "Agatha Alfredson, Daniel (2009) Thriller [R] Christie Mystery from Hell" to an absorbing police procedural that is a satisfying resolution to the series.

 Millenium 9 This is the expanded Swedish "Millenium" miniseries, six 90 minute Various (2010) Thriller / Mystery [NR] segments from which the three "Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" films were distilled. Highly recommended if you haven't seen the films or if you want to watch them again. This version more clearly shows that the first movie was really part of a much bigger story. Although not rated, the original R is still valid, especially for the first two segments.

 Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The 9 Although audiences who are fine with subtitles will not need to see Fincher, David (2011) Thriller [R] this if they've seen the Swedish original, this is a very fine English-language version of the same story, with some minor changes but the horror and intensity intact.

 Girl in the Spider's Web, The 8 As a standalone action movie, this works really well—unless you Alvarez, Fede (2018) Thriller / Action [R] have seen the original Swedish films or the riveting six-part source from which they were edited. If so, this version of Lisbeth Salander with a needlessly amped-up new backstory will feel like a sell-out to mass audiences. D

 Dreamers, The 9 In Paris during the social unrest of the 60's, an American teenager Bertolucci, Bernardo (2003) Drama [NC-17] befriends two siblings whose intimate relationship is stunting their emotional growth. A beautiful movie fat with meaning for film buffs and students of the 60's, but be sure to wipe the drool off of your analytical essay before turning it in.

 Dreamgirls 8 An authentically staged musical history of the girl groups that Condon, Bill (2006) Drama / Musical [PG-13] dominated pop music in the 60's and 70's, includes some great performances, although I saw it in the same period that I had seen the vastly superior "Once."

 Dredd 8 In contrast to the horrible original with Sylvester Stallone, this new Travis, Pete (2012) Sci-fi [R] version retains the unforgiving finality of the main character, but brings in a partner to add a Greek chorus of conscience, some very interesting villains and chest-thumping action sequences.  Drive 7 A very credible entry into the hyper-kinetic martial arts genre  Wang, Steve (1996) Action / Comedy [R] concerning a man, on the run from an evil corporation, whose Kung Fu is on "11" and whose karaoke is to be feared. Brittany Murphy supplies comic relief, some of it unintentional, to supplement unwilling sidekick Kadeem Hardison.

 Drive 8 Ryan Gosling credibly adds a new character to the pantheon of Refn, Nicolas Winding (2011) Thriller [R] über-cool but deadly anti-heroes in this tale of a stunt & getaway driver who gets tangled in the lives of too many people. The director's ability to build tension through controlled pacing makes the explosions of violence all the more cathartic.

 Drop, The 9 Unpredictable scheming among the people involved in a mob bar, Roskam, Michaël R. (2014) Crime / Thriller [R] with a truly excellent script by crime novel master Dennis Lehane. A confidential "just between us" line from a savvy detective near the end is guaranteed to evoke an "Ain't THAT the truth!" reaction.

 Drug War 7 The capture of a less-than-trustable crime kingpin leads to a series of To, Johnnie (2012) Thriller [R] set pieces in which Hong Kong police begin to take down a narcotics network. Well-executed action movie with decently developed characters.

 Dudley Do-Right 7 (1999) Comedy [PG]

 Due Date 7 A mixture of broad comedy, occasional poignancy and more wincing Phillips, Todd (2010) Comedy [R] than I could tolerate as two men, who are probably as grossly mismatched as you could possible imagine, try to survive an unwanted cross-country road trip.

 E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial 9 The classic non-threatening alien movie (obviously the work of those Spielbergh, Stephen (1982) Sci-fi [G] "anything goes" liberals, right?)

 East, The 9 A new employee of a corporate security firm is assigned to infiltrate Batmanglij, Zal (2013) Thriller [PG-13] an eco-terrorist group and nothing goes as planned for anyone. A fairly balanced set of characters fills this well-written tale of corporate reality vs. ideological reality vs. actual reality.

 Eastern Promises 9 A midwife becomes involved with some very dangerous Russians, Cronenberg, David (2007) Crime [R] but not all is what it appears. An absorbing and often very frightening tale of a subculture that exists in the shadows of London.

 Easy A 9 Although the script pushes the with-it, bantering parent characters Gluck, Will (2010) Comedy [PG-13] just beyond believability, you still can't fault the dialog in this teen sex rumor-mongering morality tale for being not intelligent or witty enough. In addition to the wise, cocked-brow perfomance by Emma Stone, the film (and laugh meter) is energized by well-integrated supporting performances.

 Eat a Bowl of Tea 7 After World War II, Chinese-Americans are finally allowed to bring Wang, Wayne (1989) Drama [PG-13] women to America to satisfy long-frustrated desires for new families, but the potential of this scenario isn't realized here.

 Edge of Tomorrow 8 If you are looking for a well-written mash-up of sci-fi, comedy, and Liman, Doug (2014) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] time travel with a splash of horror, you can't go wrong with Tom Cruise as a worthless military publicity drone who gets coerced into a war with some very vicious aliens.  Edmond 8 A small change in his planned schedule takes a middle-class white  Gordon, Stuart (2005) Drama [R] guy down a bizaare and unsettling new path, with possibly the most ironic use of a fortune teller I've ever seen.

 EDtv 7 Howard, Ron (1999) Comedy / Drama [PG-13]

 Education, An 8 An adaptation of a memoir about a teenage girl's maturation under (2010) Drama [PG-13] the influence of a much older, somewhat mysterious socialite. Both funny, sad and real, not all is as you think it is, and some of it, reassuringly, is.

 Edukators, The 7 An interesting political philosophy film, disguised as a pretty decent Weingartner, Hans (2004) Drama / Thriller [R] thriller, that contrasts the willingness of youth to upset the established order against those who have found not just comfort but meaning in it.

 Eight Heads in a Duffel Bag 7 (1997) Crime / Comedy [R]  Eight Legged Freaks 8 A modern remake of the old industrial/nuclear waste monster movie,  Elkayem, Ellory (2002) Horror / Comedy [PG-13] but with less predictable outcomes for all involved and a healthy dash of humor.  El Mariachi 7 Rodriquez' famous $7,000 public debut, a "wrong box" story about a  Rodriguez, Robert (1992) Action [R] hapless singer who is mistaken for a murderous criminal by a drug lord's even more hapless henchmen. A tour de force in wrenching a believable action film out of almost nothing.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 45 E  Election 9 Tracy Flick: she's not a high-school over-achiever—she's a freakin'  Payne, Alexander (1999) Comedy / Black [R] political machine! But amid all the black humor and hallway intrigue, the movie forces you to ask: For whom should you be rooting?

 Election 7 Two rival Japanese gangs compete for possession of a symbol of To, Johnnie (2005) Crime [R] power.

 Elf 7 I don't think the concepts of "emotional payoff" and "Will Farrell" can Favreau, Jon (2004) Comedy [PG] co-exist in the same movie, but despite its predictability, it scores a number of good laughs.

 Elite Squad: the Enemy Within 9 In a South American city, a cop with scruples struggles against Padilha, José (2010) Thriller [UR] criminals both in and outside of the police force.

 Ellen Degeneres: Here And Now 9 In the first minute of this very funny HBO special, Degeneres (2003) Comedy [NR] emphatically demonstrates what separates her from the standup pack.

 Elysium 7 The human race is divided between slum dwellers, with Earth as the Blomkamp, Neill (2013) Sci-fi [R] slum, and a glittering ringworld floating above it all. Adventure ensues as a man attempts to find a cure for his accidental radiation poisoning while being pursued by a mercenary charged with preventing the little people from getting to Elysium. Good solid entertainment, although not as genre-bending as Blomkamp's first movie, "District 9."

 Embrace of the Serpent 8 Two stories of scientists seeking botanical miracles in the Amazon, Guerra, Ciro (2015) Drama [NR] separated by 40 years but connected by the same shaman, who stands in for the disappearing culture of the region. This manages to capture a lot of the mystery and tragedy of encroaching "civilization" while captivating its audience.

 Emperor's Club, The 7 This is "Dead Poet's Society" with a somewhat harder edge that Hoffman, Michael (2002) Drama [PG-13] makes it have a little more weight, however, I can't say it really sticks with you.

 Empire of the Wolves 7 A search for a serial killer who works in Paris' Little Turkey district and Nahon, Chris (2005) Mystery / Action [R] a woman's sudden disintegration of memory converge in a surprising way. It's too complicated although it makes sense in a gestalty kind of way, but the action sequences and the twists make this fairly entertaining.

 End of Watch 8 A sometime too-realistic "days in the life" telling of two cops who are Ayer, David (2012) Thriller [R] partners and friends. Very well made and acted.

 Ender's Game 8 Although you can set aside any fears that this would be ruined by Hood, Gavin (2013) Sci-fi [PG-13] turning it into another teen-oriented action film, it does suffer from too much trimming of its central story of Ender Wiggins development from an unsure child into a leader of men (and other children). Nevertheless, the spirit of the book is retained and its question about the circular logic of the path to war remains as hard as it ever was.  Endless, The 8 These two directors specialize in evoking a sense of creeping, creepy Benson, J & Moorhead, A (2017) Horror / Sci-fi mystery with Lovecraftian overtones. Here, two brothers who [NR] escaped from a cult return to find the mystery that lay behind it. Whoa.

 Enemy at the Gates 9 While the Russians hold off the Nazi invasion of Stalingrad, snipers Annaud, Jean-jacques (2001) Action [R] become the Olympians of their countries.

 Enemy of the State 8 A lawyer's chance meeting with a man running for his life throws him Scott, Tony (1998) Thriller [R] headlong into a whole of Big Brothers. Only a little bit ahead of its time, this keeps one's attention with effective action sequences and a touch of humor from its main character. Extra enjoyment if you have already seen "The Conversation."

 English Patient, The 9 The story of a star-crossed love affair during World War II. Minghella, Anthony (1996) Romance [R]

 Entrapment 8 Sean Connery plays an art thief who is in the sights of an insurance Amiel, Jon (1999) Action [PG-13] investigator in this entertaining tale with a few twists.

 Equalizer, The 7 Based on the well-liked TV show, this modernized version has Denzel Fuqua, Anton (2014) Action [R] Washington equalizing the bloody hell out of a stateside arm of the Russian mafia, with satisfying results.

 Equilibrium 8 In a fascist society where emotions are suppressed with regular drug Wimmer, Kurt (2002) Sci-fi [R] doses, an enforcer goes off his meds and opens a can of Matrix-style "Gun Kata" on the powers that be.

 Eraser 7 (1996) Thriller [R]

 Erin Brockovich 8 One of the better "little guys" vs. big corporation dramas, with the Soderbergh, Steven (2000) Drama [R] added spice of the main character played by Julia Roberts  Escape From Tomorrow 7 A man on a family vacation at a theme park gets some upsetting  Moore, Randy (2013) Comedy / Black [R] news, and things start to sprial into weirdness. Surreptitiously filmed in part at Disney World.  Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless 9 Written by Charlie Kaufman. A hapless nobody discovers that his  Mind girlfriend has had her memory of him erased and in despair, does the same. What follows is a clever, very unconventional but entertaining Gondry, Michel (2004) Fantasy / Comedy [R] love story that feels more like what love is like.

 Eurotrip 7 Uneven but often funny teen-oriented road movie in which a Schaffer, Jeff (2004) Comedy [NR] high-school foursome tries to track down the pen-pal of one of them.

 Ever After: A Cinderella Story 8 A retelling of the Cinderella story, with a healthy feminist flavor to it. Tennant, Andy (1998) Drama / Comedy [PG]

 Everybody Wants Some!! 8 A spot-on slice of 1970s collegiate sports life, told from Linklater's Linklater, Richard (2016) Comedy [R] own experience. Consistently entertaining.

 Everything Is Illuminated 8 A man fascinated by his famly history tracks some of it down in the Schreiber, Liev (2005) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] Ukraine. EVIL DEAD  Evil Dead, The 7 Five friends get away from it all in a backwoods cabin that happens to Raimi, Sam (1981) Horror / Comedy [R] hide one hell of a book. The dated special effects are so gruesomely squishy they are funny, but the director knew what he was doing.  Evil Dead II 7 For practical purposes, this is a remake not a sequel, but with better  Raimi, Sam (1987) Horror / Comedy [R] special effects and a walloping dose of the slapstick humor lurking in the dark closets of the original. Add "Army of Darkness" for a classic, genre-crossing double-feature.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 47 EVIL DEAD  Army of Darkness 7 Raimi switches gears from horror to action/adventure in this  Raimi, Sam (1993) Adventure / Comedy [R] "moments later" sequel to Evil Dead II, but does not skimp on the slapstick humor.  Ash Vs. Evil Dead 9 This series is a worthy edition to the "Dead" canon, continuing the  Raimi, S & Various, V (2015) Horror / Comedy slapstick and over-the-top gore that we would expect, and yes, Ash is [TV-MA] still Ash. Great support from guest stars, including Lucy Lawless and Lee Majors. E

 Evolution 8 Scientists investigating a meteor hit discover it included some rather Reitman, Ivan (2001) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG-13] dangerous passengers. Saving the Earth may be a bit of a challenge for them, though.

 Excess Baggage 7 (1997) Thriller [PG-13] e  eXistenZ 8 A group of people are given a first look at a reclusive games wizard's  Cronenberg, David (1999) Sci-fi [R] completely submersive video game using a creepy bionic controller. Then things get REALLY weird. E

 Exit Through the Gift Shop 9 The fun and importance of this film is easily measured by the number Banksy (2010) Documentary [R] of layers of meaning that one can find in it. Is it a documentary, a fake documentary, a satire of the art world or, perhaps, something that is only shown properly on the concrete sides of a freeway overpass? Whatever it is, its story arc leads to frequent attempts to laugh with one's draw dropped.

 Exorcist, The 8 (1973) Horror [R]

 Extract 7 A not-quite-black comedy about the owner of a factory who is faced Judge, Mike (2009) Comedy [R] with a number of comic situations, made worth seeing by the sardonic slant given to it by its writer/director and some of the character acting in the supporting roles.

 Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle 8 Starting with the same ingredients as an Indiana Jones movie but Blanc-Sec, The adding a bit more whimsy, this adventure of a pre-WW1 female reporter makes a great family movie. Besson, Luc (2010) Adventure [PG]

 Eye in the Sky 9 A perfectly nuanced examination of what constitutes morally Hood, Gavin (2015) Thriller [R] acceptable actions during war—when the war is the one on terrorism in countries that are ostensibly our friends or allies. It leaves you to decide for yourself, without downplaying the human costs.

 Eye, The 7 A blind girl receives a transplant and begins to see a bit more than Pang Brothers, The (2005) Thriller [R] she realizes. Several serious jumps make up for some mid-story predictability, but the end is pretty serious stuff.  Eyes of Tammy Faye, The 8 Loving but satirical look at the the life of Tammy Faye Baker.  Bailey, Fenton and Barbato, R (2000) Documentary [PG-13]

 F For Fake 8 Although Welles warns us, after a fashion, that everything you see Welles, Orson (1973) Documentary [PG] may not be true, this docu-essay about the nature of art and artifice, concentrating on (at least) two famous fakers, is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

 Face/Off 7 (1997) Thriller [R]

 Factory Girl 7 The rise and fall of Andy Warhol's muse and temporary energy Hickenlooper, George (2006) Drama [R] source Edie Sedgewick. Although you can't really connect with these specimens, the film does a good job of pulling you into the era.

 Faculty, The 7 (1998) Horror [R]

 Fall, The 8 An injured stunt man with a hidden agenda weaves an adventure tale Singh, Tarsem (2006) Drama / Fantasy [R] for an small girl recovering in the same hospital. A truly touching drama with astonishing visuals that have little to do with special effects.

 Fall, The 9 Gillian Anderson stars as a British detective brought to Ireland to help Cubitt, Allan (2013) Thriller [TV-MA] solve a disturbing string of murders. She gets into a battle of both wits and mutual profiling with the complex and enigmatic perpetrator. Seasons 1 and 2 tell the complete story, although leaving you with either a hook for the story to conitinue or a final damning observation about Detective Gibson. Season 3 proves there was more story to tell.

 Family Stone, The 9 A control freak tries to fit into a family of very strong personalities, Bezucha, Thomas (2005) Comedy [PG-13] with near-disastrous results, until some shifts of perspective occur. Includes a subtle but eye-opening dinner table metaphor for the split in perceptions about gays.  Family, The 8 When an American family moves to France as part of a witness  Besson, Luc (2013) Comedy / Black [R] protection program, their old habits and true natures complicates life for their handlers (and some of the locals), even as the father seems to be finding a meaningful new path for his life. A well-paced black comedy that lets you in on the joke on a need to know basis.

 Fanboys 7 Four old friends regroup for one last taste of over-the-top Star Wars Newman, Kyle (2008) Comedy [PG-13] fan behavior: Stealing a copy of the unreleased Episode I. Amusing for most, probably a laugh riot for true fanboys who "get" all the embedded in-jokes (who plays the Obi-Wan character?)

 Fantasia 9 Disney's groundbreaking demonstration of what was possible in Various (1940) Fantasy [G] animation still holds up.

 Fantasia 2000 9 As a counterpoint to the original Disney animation, this brings modern Algar, J & Brizzi, G (2000) Fantasy [G] digital animation to the mix without departing from the traditions that made the first such a groundbreaking work.

 Fantastic Beasts and Where To 8 An eccentric young wizard visits 1912 New York with a case of Find Them secrets—and an enormous amount of entertaining trouble gets loose. Even those we miss the emotional core created by the Potter gang, Yates, David (2016) Fantasy [PG-13] this is a great dose of the same kind of movie magic.

 Fantastic Mr. Fox, The 8 Although obstensibly meant for kids, this adaptation of a Roald Dahl Anderson, Wes (2009) Comedy [PG] story, about a family of foxes and friends, is loaded with dry humor that adults will appreciate.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 49 F  Far From Heaven 9 Retro 50's drama inspired by films of Douglas Sirk (Imitation of LIfe).  Haynes, Todd (2002) Drama [PG-13]

 Farenheit 911 9 A fascinating, sometimes funny, sometimes horrifying assembly of Moore, Michael (2004) Documentary [R] new interviews and unseen news footage that makes the case for George W. Bush being a one-term president.

 Farewell, My Lovely 9 One of the few recent noir remakes that does justice to Raymond Richards, Dick (1975) Thriller / Film Noir [R] Chandler, in this case the novel of the same name.

 Farewell, The 9 At odds with her Americanized sensibilities, a young adult participates Wang, Lulu (2019) Drama / Comedy [PG] in her family's staged excuse for a last visit with her grandmother, who is dying and has not been told. It's a moving study of cultural differences that is both funny and universal in its understanding of how families work.  Fargo 9 A trapped life in the snowy fields of North Dakota leads to murder and Coen, J & Coen, E (1996) Thriller / Comedy [R] black comedy in one of the Coen brothers' best and most essential portraits of people dealing with the presence of evil in their midst.  Fargo 9 Taking a cue from a plot device in the original movie, but then  Various (2014) Mystery / Comedy [TV-MA] weaving its own new (and complete) story, this is a superlative example of what is possible from television when everything from writing to directing to acting is working at a high level.

 Fast & Furious 6 8 Well-executed sequel delivers everything you want in a Lin, Justin (2013) Thriller [PG-13] cars/guns/heist movie with a minimum of foolishness. Probably the best since the original.

 Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & 7 The action is well-choreographed, the vehicle sequences not Shaw remotely believable and the chemistry between the three leads works really well. It adds up to a decent action movie. Leitch, David (2019) Action [PG-13]

 Fast and the Furious, The 7 Not bad for an action flick, especially with Vin Diesel actually bringing Cohen, Rob (2001) Action [PG-13] some unexpected depth to one of the cardboard cutouts.  Fast Color 8 A young woman with a unnatural talent for destruction, running from  Hart, Julia (2018) Drama / Fantasy [PG-13] something or somebody, returns to her estranged mother. This is a very different take on the super-hero story, never boring yet unfolding at a stately pace until its emotionally satisfying climax.

 Fast Five 7 After succumbing to uninspired sequel-itis, the series pulls off a Lin, Justin (2011) Action [PG-13] rejuvenation of credibility as the action moves to South America and Dwayne Johnson is added as a federal agent who doesn't quite know enough. Yet.  Fast, Cheap & Out of Control 9 Four short, fascinating features about men who control their own  Morris, Errol (1997) Documentary [G] world in very different ways.

 Fauberg 36 7 A ruthless capitalist and the troupe that runs a local vaudeville style Barratier, Christophe (2004) Drama / Musical theater clash as the labor movement gains power in France. This tells [PG-13] an entertaining, slightly bittersweet fable that captures the atmosphere of its time and place, but does not truly offer much more. Like many French films, it pushes its rating slightly.

 Favourite, The 9 Lanthimos translates the very, very complicated relationship between Lanthimos, Yorgos (2019) Drama [R] Queen Anne, the Duchess of Marlborough and the latter's poor but resourceful cousin Abigail into a period piece with a very modern feel. Excellent performances leave us unsure of how any of it will be

 Fear and Loathing In Las Vegas 6 This isn't really decipherable without having read the Hunter S.  Gilliam, Terry (1998) Comedy [R] Thompson book, but since it is only a visualization of the book's scenes, you can pass on it without qualms.

 Fearless 8 Jet Li portrays a master from China's early 20th century who Yu, Ronny (2007) Drama / Martial Arts [PG-13] surmounted self-inflicted tragedy to found the famous Jingwu Sports Federation. Flawlessly executed matches are balanced by the drama of the master's early life.  Fearless Vampire Killers, The 7 Roman Polanski's spoof of Hammer horror films is a balance of  Polanski, Roman (1967) Comedy / Horror genre-busting slapstick and moody visuals that deserves to be seen [PG-13] at least once.

 Femme Fatale 8 A nicely twisting and very stylish thriller from one of the master's of Palma, Brian De (2002) Thriller [R] this genre.

 Ferpect Crime 8 A Spanish department store manager with an epicurean life as his Iglesia, Álex De La (2004) Comedy [R] goal takes a a hilarious nightmare of a detour. No, the title is not a typo.

 Fever Pitch 8 Spirited but gentle (for these directors) comedy about a rabid Farrelly, B & Farrelly, P (2005) Comedy [PG-13] baseball fan who meets his match.

 Fifth Element, The 7 Bruce Willis in fine form as a persecuted cab driver into whose lap Besson, Luc (1997) Thriller / Comedy [PG-13] falls a mysterious babe from space; the end of the universe is promptly scheduled.  Fight Club 8 Man, did this go where I wasn't expecting it, or what?  Fincher, David (1999) Thriller / Fantasy [R]  Fighting With My Family 8 "It's not fake, it's fixed," says one character in defending the livelihood Merchant, Stephen (2019) Drama / Comedy of a wrestling family in which the kids dream of being called to the [PG-13] WWE and... glory! That is an apt description of this movie, in which a group of comedic talents nails the personalities and looks of the real people on which the story is based. It's a spandex-to-riches movie about an athletic form of entertainment that wins big as an enjoyable, family-centered (but hardly PG) movie.

 Final Cut, The 7 This films posits a time when the digitally-preserved memories of the Naim, Omar (2004) Sci-fi / Thriller [R] recently deceased are edited down into a memorial for the survivors, then asks what kinds of devilry can that capabilty cause for all concerned. A good what-if movie that does not quite generate the excitement it might have.  Final Girls, The 7 A teenager and her friends gets mysteriously sucked into the bowels  Strauss-Schulson, Todd (2015) Comedy / Horror of a 70's summer camp slasher film in which her mother had a role. [PG-13] Lots of good, meta-satirical fun with a decent dose of actual drama.  Finding Forrester 7 Entertaining drama in the "old codger who is actually famous finds a  (2000) Drama [PG-13] protege" genre.

 Finding Nemo 10 A beautifully written and visualized fish story about a young tyke and Stanton, Andrew (2003) Adventure / Comedy [G] his widowed father, both of whom have some growing to do.

 Finding Neverland 8 A slightly fictional but "true in spirit" retelling of how "Peter Pan" was Forster, Marc (2004) Drama [PG] written.

 First Reformed 9 A psychologically fragile priest and caretaker of a tiny "museum" Schrader, Paul (2017) Drama [R] church struggles to find meaning amid ecological issues, corporate money pressures and tragedy. A thoughtful examination of what eats away at the soul of a good man, with a dose of art film symbolism.

 Fish Called Wanda, A 9 A crime caper goes awry in exactly the way one might expect in a Crichton, Charles (1988) Comedy [R] movie with a strong Monty Python connection.

 Flags of Our Fathers 9 A very affecting "slice of war" movie based on the true stories behind Eastwood, Clint (2006) Drama [R] the famous flag-raising photo from Iwo Jima. It's the first half of Eastwood's WWII duo, of which "Letters from Iwo Jima" is the other.

 Flame and Citron 9 The story of Denmark's most famous resistance fighters — or more Madsen, Ole Christian (2008) Drama [NR] accurately, Nazi exterminators — and the deeply murky environment in which they operated.  Fleabag 10 Twelve 30 minute episodes of concentrated manic-depressive hilarity  Waller-Bridge, Phoebe (2016) Comedy / Drama interrupted by two-hankie reveals, with some inspired storytelling [TV-MA] tricks (Hot priest: "What was that?"). This show is absolutely brilliant and goes out on top.

 Flightplan 8 A widow with a professional knowledge of airliners walks on a plane Schwentke, Robert (2005) Thriller [PG-13] with her daughter, who then disappears. Well-acted thriller that balances reasonable doubt against the most reasonable explanation.

 Florida Project, The 8 This slice of life film has an almost documentary feel as it follows the Baker, Sean (2017) Drama [R] lives of a desperate mother and her oblivious young daughter, weekly-rate tenants at a scuzzy motel in the shadow of the Magic Kingdom. It effectively captures the yin-yang of desperate resourcefulness and self-destructive pride that can accompany poverty, but liberals will be embarassed and conservatives will want to punch someone.

 Flushed Away 7 A house mouse gets flushed by a grubby squatter and discovers a Bowers, David & Fell, Sam (2006) Comedy [PG] sub-porcelain world containing a plucky girl mouse and a pack of mobsters. A generally entertaining adventure, with enough meat thrown to the adults, that still begs the question "Doesn't it smell really, really bad, everywhere, all the time?"

 Fog Of War, The 9 An aging Robert McNamara recounts his influence in the Viet Nam Morris, Errol (2003) Documentary [PG-13] war era. A sobering perspective on the decision processes that lead to the death of thousands of people, with great contemporary relevance.

 Forbidden Kingdom, The 7 A hapless American street kid get sucked into an adventure in Minkoff, Rob (2008) Fantasy / Adventure [PG-13] ancient China, in a very appealing film aimed at older kids.

 Forbidden Planet 9 The first really great, cutting-edge science fiction movie since Wilcox, Fred M. (1956) Sci-fi [PG] "Metropolis," and an acknowledged inspiration for "Star Trek," with humor, horror and the Energizer Bunny of sci-fi monsters. Set design good enough to be called "retro" instead of "dated?" Check! No "rocket" sounds in space? Check! Eerie electronic soundtrack with unsettling "Jaws" precursor? Check! Robot as fully-realized character? Affirmative. Mind-expansion? You betcha!  Forbidden Room, The 8 A film that has no interest in plot as anything but a placeholder and  Maddin, Guy (2015) Drama / Fantasy [R] framing device for a series of inexplicable dreams within dreams. If you understand the craziness you are getting into, it holds up as an enjoyable exercise in the kind of freeform imagining at which children

 Ford v Ferrari 8 Both Damon and Bale bring great heart to the story of two automotive Mangold, James (2019) Drama / Action [PG-13] legends who brought down Ferrari's dominance of European racing while fending off corporate goons.

 Forgotten, The 8 Although it may seem like this moody thriller changes genres midway, Ruben, Joseph (2004) Thriller [PG-13] it's only because one genre was inside another. This will be enjoyed more knowing as little as possible about it.  Fountain, The 7 A simpler movie than it appears, with its apparent three stories  Aronofsky, Darren (2006) Drama / Fantasy turning into two (and really, just one — but with ample visual [PG-13] illustration), this will appeal to lovers of fantasitc realism (really) and grand romance.

 Four Brothers 8 Part whodunit, part revenge saga. Four rejects from the foster care Singleton, John (2005) Action [R] system substitute for the cops after the murder of their adoptive mother. Some nicely laid twists and turns keep this from being predictable.

 Four Feathers, The 8 An updated, more ethically-informed interpretation of the classic story Kapur, Shekhar (2002) Action [PG-13] of a man who refuses England's call to war.  Fourth Man, The 9 A gruesomely funny psychological thriller, pitting a gay Catholic writer Verhoeven, Paul (1983) Thriller / Comedy [R] with a full-tilt Virgin fixation against the electric seductiveness of a possibly homocidal widow and filled to the brim with critic-baiting symbolism. A line of blasphemy in the first love scene will be followed by the sound of jaws hitting the floor.

 Fracture 8 A vengeful engineer and a social-climbing prosecutor match wits in Hoblit, Gregory (2007) Crime [R] this tale of a brazen murder that turns out to be a harder case than it appears.

 Frankenstein 8 This seminal film from Universal's golden age of horror set the trend Whale, James (1931) Horror [PG] for years to come, including having a sequel ("Bride of...") acknowledged as being as good as the original.

 Frankenweenie 8 Tim Burton provides a heartfelt mashup of Lassie and many classic Burton, Tim (2012) Comedy / Horror [PG] Universal horror tropes that works on many levels.

 Freaky Friday 9 Consistently funny and well-acted remake about a mother and Waters, Mark (2003) Comedy [PG] daughter who must cope with switched bodies.  Freeway 8 White-trash retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. Reese Witherspoon  (1996) Thriller / Black Comedy [R] kicks ass and many other body parts. Not for your grandma, though.

 Frida 8 The use of brilliant native color and the meshing of paintings with live Taymor, Julie (2002) Drama [R] action do a creditable job of illustrating the life of a famous Mexican painter, lover and iconoclast.

 Friday Night Lights 9 Football, family and fear of failure in a small Texas town where high Berg, Peter (2004) Drama [PG-13] school football, pardner, is all there is.

 Friends of Eddie Coyle, The 8 An adaptation of a classic noir novel about a lifelong criminal who Yates, Peter (1973) Crime [R] begins playing both sides of the law.

 Fright Night 7 The original is a reasonably amusing, almost well-acted riff on Holland, Tom (1985) Horror / Comedy [R] Hitckcock's Rear Window, although it doesn't keep up the "is he or isn't he" suspense long enough (it comes from the period when

 Fright Night 8 Unlike many remakes, this reboot of the 1985 original, written by Gillespie, Craig (2011) Horror [R] Marti Noxon, exhibits the quality of writing that you expect from a veteran of Joss Whedon's creative staff.

 Frighteners, The 8 Very amusing and energetic tale of a wounded-soul con man who Jackson, Peter (1996) Horror / Comedy [R] meets up with something a bit more serious.  From Dusk Till Dawn 7 The blood flies, in more ways than one, in this violent fantasy flick set  Rodriguez, Robert (1996) Horror / Adventure [R] in a saloon with a secret south of the U.S. border.

 From Hell 8 With the story that of Jack the Ripper, you know this will be Hughes, Albert & Allen (2001) Crime [R] atmospheric, but the overall quality of acting makes this an unsettling but entertaining take on the old legend.

 Frontiers 7 Horror shocker in which rioters escaping frm Paris wind up in an inn Gens, Xavier (2007) Horror [UR] staffed by a Manson-like cult steeped in some old European social issues. Not for the squeamish.

 Frozen 8 An imaginative take on the little sister / suddenly distant big sister Buck, C & Lee, J (2013) Musical / Adventure dynamic forms the framework of this musical. With an ending that is [PG] subversive for traditionalists, Disney breaks completely free of the Prince Charming cliché—but not quite from the one about royals with dead parents. However, it will take Frozen II to fill in the completely missing backstory.

 Frozen River 9 A mother pretty much out of options takes advantage of a less-savory Hunt, Courtney (2008) Drama [R] opportunity to keep her family from going under. Excellent portrayal of life at the edge (of both finances and the Canadian border) mixed with the unique situation of Native Americans.

 Fugitive, The 9 A tightly constructed modernization of the old TV series' premise, with Davis, Andrew (1993) Adventure [PG-13] some riveting action set pieces that advance the dawning suspicions about Dr. Kimball's innocence.

 Full Frontal 7 An foray into the improvised digital world with big stars at small pay Soderbergh, Steven (2002) Comedy [R] (doing their own makeup no less) that succeeds reasonably well. That some parts don't is a standard caveat for this kind of film, so if you understand the territory you will probably enjoy this.

 Fulltime Killer 7 A brash upstart sees himself as the #2 hitman (with a bullet), but To, Johnny & Ka-Fai Wai (2001) Action [R] won't be happy until he knocks off the man in the #1 spot. A definitive example from the Asian crime film genre.

 Funny Bones 9 The frustrated son of a famous comedian returns to the roots of his Chelsom, Peter (1995) Drama / Comedy [R] childhood to discover some surprising secrets. Well-crafted amalgamation of family drama, black humor and truly funny slapstick that tells its tale on its own terms using an expertly chosen cast.

 Furie 8 Vietnamese gangster kidnap the daughter of an ex-gangster who Kiet, Le-Van (2019) Thriller / Martial Arts [R] turns out to be a tiger mom with ...particular set of skills. Believable family moments are interspersed with slam-bang action sequences as Mom pursues the baddies, creating one of the better examples of the genre.

 Galaxy Quest 8 Nice characterizations add to a dead-on satire of TV science fiction Parisot, Dean (1999) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG] as the worlds of rabid fans and jaded cast members collide in a film that also holds its own as an adventure movie.

 Game 6 8 A reverie in which a somewhat unbalanced playwright stalks a Hoffman, Michael (2005) Drama [R] fleeting dream (a pennant for the Red Sox) and a mysterious and much-hated drama critic.

 Game Night 8 Funny and a bit over-the-top, a group of friends tries to hang on to a Daley, J & Goldstein, J (2018) Comedy [R] tradition after losing the popular half of one couple and being invaded by a relative from the suburbs of hell.

 Game, The 7 A wealthy executive gets the kind of birthday gift only people with way Fincher, David (1997) Thriller [R] too much money would think about and enters a live-action game that may not be what it seems. The forced premise provides a lot of thrills and twists until it runs out of logic, but it's worth a look.

 Gangs of New York 9 The conflicts between rival ethnic gangs in the days of Boss Tweed Scorsese, Martin (2002) Drama [R] are the backdrop for a tale of revenge.

 Gantz 7 Some of the characters are perhaps too realisitically paralyzed by Sato, Shinsuke (2010) Sci-fi [NR] fear to pull a $@#$@ trigger, but that is overcome by the inventiveness, the action and the subtly goofy humor in this action flick about people who are be confronted by a entity with its own plans for what may be their afterlife. Especially fun if you have not seen the previous versions and don't know what is going on.

 Gantz: Perfect Answer 7 This follow-up to the original film apparently departs from the manga, Sato, Shinsuke (2011) Sci-fi [NR] however it was enjoyable enough.

 Garden State 8 A winning combination of psychological and visual comedy leavened Braff, Zach (2004) Comedy / Drama [R] by believable drama.

 Gatekeepers, The 9 Although it makes you want to go even deeper (as well as find its Moreh, Dror (2012) Documentary [PG-13] complement, told from the other side), the assembled memories of six men who headed Israel's secret security agency Shin Bet gives a lot of insight into the human side of being responsible for combatting the terrorism that your own country's policies may have encouraged.

 Gattaca 8 How can a talented person get ahead in a caste system based on Niccol, Andrew (1997) Sci-fi [PG-13] genetics? Very thoughtful sci-fi suspense movie.

 General's Daughter, The 7 (1999) Crime [R]

 Generation Kill 9 The writer-producers who did "The Wire" bring us a hyper-realistic White, S & Cellan-jones, S (2008) Drama [TV-MA] depiction of the lives of Marines in the first weeks of Bush's Iraq invasion. Based on the Rolling Stone articles written by embedded reporter Evan Wright, it is a character-study of an entire platoon, steadily creating a picture of the good, the bad and the horrifying as we travel with them from impatient waiting at base camp through engagements and finally to the grim realization that their war cannot produce what they would traditionally call a "victory."

 George of the Jungle 8 As silly as it is, this is a great bit of entertainment, full of sight gags, Weisman, Sam (1997) Comedy / Adventure [PG] satiric jabs at the genre and John Cleese as an ape doing an apparent end-run around Darwin.

 Get Low 8 A hermit who kept to himself for forty years decides to throw a party Schneider, Aaron (2010) Comedy / Drama for himself to reveal his true story instead of the hundreds that have [PG-13] circulated about him. Although it's climactic scene can't quite top the humor and mystery woven during the build-up (it's based on a true story), it's made of wonderful small-town character roles that ring true.

 Get Out 9 A masterful combination of traditional horror and a more subtle racial Peele, Jordan (2017) Horror / Comedy [R] horror that leaves you feeling constantly off-balance, which makes the surprises that are coming all the more effective.

 Get Shorty 7 After reading this Elmore Leonard novel and learning that John Sonnenfeld, Barry (1995) Crime / Comedy [R] Travolta would be the lead in the upcoming film, all I could say was "That's exactly right."

 Get Smart 7 An enjoyable spy comedy that makes enough references to the old Segal, Peter (2008) Comedy [PG-13] series to satisfy original fans but allows Steve Carell to mix up his own blend of hapless secret agent.

 Ghost 8 An effective romance movie about a woman recovering from the loss Zucker, Jerry (1990) Romance / Fantasy [PG-13] of her true love with the help of... her true love.

 Ghost and the Darkness, The 7 (1996) Drama [R]  Ghost Dog: The Way of the 7 Even with the skewed perspective that is typical of this director, this  Samurai enjoyably offbeat action movie, about a Zen-guided hit man, is enlivened by a number of comic performances. Jarmusch, Jim (1999) Crime [R]

 Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence 7 This sequel boasts advanced graphic tech but really doesn't have the Oshii, Mamoru (2004) Sci-fi [PG-13] same impact as the original's combinaton of explosive action, beautiful visuals and evocative music.

 Ghost in the Shell, The 7 This English live-action version captures some of the feel of the Sanders, Rupert (2017) Sci-fi [PG-13] anime original, but tries to be a pastiche of that and later interations. The otherwise valid "whitewashing" issues are undermined by Johanssen (in a wig) having a startling resemblance to the original's Kusanagi (while other characters in the original have always struck me as having noticeably Western features). In any case, your first exposure to this classic story should be the 1996 original, not this version.  Ghost Story, A 8 The "life" of a ghost, as told over time. Slow and stately with  Lowery, David (2017) Drama / Fantasy [R] Kubrickian framing, this creates a transcendent meditation examining the passage of time and memory. Do not go into this expecting horror or action.  Ghost World 8 Looking for love when you hate the world. Based on a comic, with  Zwigoff, Terry (2000) Comedy [R] great performances and a script that doesn't pull punches.

 Ghost Writer, The 8 Hired to replace the writer who committed suicide while working on a Polanski, Roman (2010) Thriller [PG-13] famous politician's auto-biography, a young author discovers that it may not be his book that is finished. Excels at creating an atmosphere of creeping paranoia.

 Ghostbusters 9 A team of barely competent "scientists" stumbles into a new career Reitman, Ivan (1984) Comedy / Sci-fi [PG] investigating paranormal occurrences — and the resulting slime. A true classic from the National Lampoon / SCTV / SNL era.

 Ghostbusters 8 Four women take up the mantle of the original Ghostbusters, leading Feig, Paul (2016) Comedy [PG-13] to a sufficient level of hilarity to hold its own, although it cannot quite match the contributions of the original's secondary characters.

 Ghostbusters II 7 Although it's not the well-tuned laugh machine that was the original, Reitman, Ivan (1989) Comedy / Sci-fi [PG] our team of paranormal investigators produced enough great moments to make this worth watching more than once.

 Ghosts of Mississippi 8 Riveting exploration of the racist South and final justice for Medgar Reiner, Rob (1996) Drama [PG-13] Evers.

 Gilda 9 A small-time gambler hired to work in a Buenos Aires casino learns Vidor, Charles (1946) Thriller / Film Noir [NR] that his ex-lover is married to his employer. (IMDb) Classic noir, but with an interesting change of setting.  Ginger Snaps 8 "Snaps" is a verb, not a noun. Two Goth sisters with a bent towards  Fawcett, John (2000) Horror / Comedy [R] the macabre deal with a nasty animal bite and a truly ultimate case of PMS, while their mother is sure it's all her fault. One of the better variations on a classic theme.

 Ginger Snaps Back - The 7 Still more of a straight horror flick, this has the two sisters wandering Beginning at the edge of 19th century Canadian wilderness, with a bit of influence from "Alien" this time. Harvey, Grant (2004) Horror / Comedy [R]

 Ginger Snaps II 7 The story from the original continues with a bit less humor (but some Sullivan, Brett (2004) Horror / Comedy [R] subtle howlers nevertheless) and the same high-quality horror writing.

 Girl Walks Home Alone At Night, A 9 A solid foray into moody horror by an Iranian-American director. It Amirpour, Ana Lily (2014) Horror [UR] skillfully mixes up a batch of neo-realist horror noir with a strong dash of spaghetti western. Paced slowly, but the tension it generates is palpable, aided by the beautifully stark black and white cinematography.

 Girl Who Leapt Through Time, The 7 A fairly well-written tween romance about a young woman who Hosoda, Mamoru (2006) Fantasy [NR] discovers a mysterious ability to jump (literally) backwards in time. Definitely targeted at the young female audience.

 Girl With A Pearl Earring 9 A well-executed fictional "origin" of a famous Vermeer painting Webber, Peter (2003) Drama [PG-13] provides both emotional tension and the hook for a rich examination of the harsh realities of 17th century class hierarchies.

 Girl, Interrupted 8 (1999) Drama [R]

 Girls Rock! 8 Entertaining, funny and occasionally touching film the follows four Johnson, A. & King, S. (2007) Documentary [PG] girls during a week at an all-girls music camp that teaches self-reliance and freedom of expression.

 Gladiator 8 Good enough to pull in an Oscar, Ridley Scott's film follows the path Scott, Ridley (2000) Adventure / Historical [R] taken by a Roman general who is betrayed after success in battle.

 Glass 7 This last installment in a trilogy with the superior "Unbreakable" and Shyamalan, M. Night (2019) Sci-fi / Thriller [R] "Split" ends with a very unexpected but not quite satisfying twist.

 Glass House, The 7 (2001) Horror [PG-13]

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 57 G  Go 8 A movie about what happens when you just go with the flow. Very  (1999) Thriller [R] unpredictable, often very funny.  God Bless America 7 Aided by a bubbly teenager with a pronounced psychopathic streak, a Goldthwait, Bobcat (2011) Comedy / Black [R] thoroughly disgusted Everyman pauses in his desire to shoot himself in order to start shooting deserving people instead. An amusing black comedy with a little too much exposition about modern culture (but well-written exposition you wish you had said yourself) and a very high guilty pleasure quotient.  God said, "Ha!" 9 Constantly funny, often side-splitting yet often poignant, this  Sweeney, Julia (1998) Comedy [PG-13] one-woman show by Julia Sweeney about her very ill brother, her parents and herself shows how, when life serves you lemons, some people make a lemon layer cake.

 Gods and Monsters 8 Fictionalized bio of the man who gave us "Frankenstein," "The Bride Condon, Bill (1998) Drama [R] of Frankenstein" and "The Invisible Man" and his platonic relationship with his gardener. GODZILLA

 Godzilla 7 The granddaddy of big monster movies in its original Japanese, Honda, Ishirô (1954) Horror [UR] Raymond Burr-less version, full of projected post-Hiroshima horror. Great stuff, especially if you are ten or can imagine yourself at that age.  Bambi Meets Godzilla 10 A classic cartoon short. No other description is needed beyond the  Newland, Marv (1969) Comedy [NR] title. Well, except this is not for kids.

 Godzilla 7 Edwards gets a lot of it right in structuring yet another "origin" story. Edwards, Gareth (2014) Sci-fi / Horror [PG-13] However, even though this is an "all about the monster" movie, the exit of Bryan Cranston leaves a hole that none of the other humans can fill and we are left with a second half that happens to include some tiny things called humans as extras. G

 Golden Voyage of Sinbad, The 7 One of Ray Harryhausen's classic adventure stories with the Hessler, Gordon (1974) Action [PG] stop-action animation seamlessly integrated with the actors. The costume of the love interest would have gotten her a good stoning, though (not to mention that whole business of letting her onto a ship).

 Goldeneye 7 (1995) Action [PG-13]

 Gone Girl 9 The disappearance of a woman throws suspicion on her husband in Fincher, David (2014) Mystery / Thriller [R] this seriously twisted thriller. Not to be missed.

 Gonzo: the Life and Work of Dr. 8 An informed and well-constructed review and explanation of the life of Hunter S. Thompson Thompson, the chronicler of counter-cultures that started with Hell's Angels and extended through the presidential contests of the 70's. Gibney, Alex (2008) Documentary [R]

 Good Boys 8 Three buddies wander from one disastrous decision to another while Stupnitsky, Gene (2019) Comedy [R] chased by some very angry teenage girls. The tag line "You must be this tall to see this movie" is both dead serious and a clue about how odd this often hilarious movie is: Not only will its pre-pubescent main characters not comprehend half the jokes, they won't understand the emotional core that elevates it above other sophomoric movies.

 Good Bye Lenin! 9 After she awakes from a heart-attack induced coma, a son protects Becker, Wolfgang (2004) Comedy / Drama [R] his Communist mother from the shock of German reunification -- by faking it. Very touching and consistently amusing.

 Good German, The 9 Done in the style of a 40's war pic, but with a nod to modern realism, Soderbergh, Steven (2006) Drama [R] this mystery, about a man seeking out the object of a pre-WW II relationship in Germany, explores the emotional and political after-effects of the war.

 Good Girl, The 8 An unexpected, humorously subversive delight of a movie about Arteta, Miguel (2002) Comedy [R] working folks in a Bible belt town and the struggle to define oneself as something other than a working folk stuck in a Bible belt town.

 Good Night and Good Luck 10 The battle between Edward R Murrow and Sen. Joseph McCarthy, Clooney, George (2005) Drama [PG] told in lovingly evocative black and white, with a riveting performance by David Strathairn as Murrow and McCarthy playing his slimy self, an obvious inspiration for Bill O'Reilly.

 Good the Bad the Weird, The 8 This Korean homage to the Spaghetti Western has a bounty hunter, a Kim, Ji-Woon (2008) Action [R] gang leader and a skillfully bungling thief chasing a mysterious map — and perhaps each other. Several serious acrobatic action sequences are punctuated with humor and a few surprises.

 Goodfellas 9 Theft and murder with the guy who lives next door, told with ironic Scorsese, Martin (1990) Drama / Comedy [R] black humor. A classic retelling of the basic gangster story, with an absolutely scary Joe Pesci.

 Goon 8 Based on the story of minor-league hockey enforcer Douglas Smith, a Dowse, Michael (2011) Comedy / Action [R] remarkably sweet-tempered ex-bouncer becomes famous after being hired as the enforcer for a bottom-rung team with a cynical, shell-shocked star player. It's the guiltiest of guilty pleasures: an ultimately satisfying mix of hockey violence offset by a winning underdog story.

 Goonies, The 9 The classic kids adventure story with some nice moral twists woven Donner, Richard (1985) Adventure [PG] into the plot.

 Gormenghast 7 A BBC version of the satirical trilogy by Mervyn Peak tells the story of Wilson, Andy (2000) Fantasy / Drama [PG] an ancient kingdom mired in musty ritual (everyone except the villainous Steerpike and the heir Titus seems to be covered in dust). Except for Steerpike's habit of murdering people (but then, good riddance), one could root for either as the antidote to the kingdom's problems.

 Gosford Park 9 Altman uses a murder as an excuse for an exploration of Altman, Robert (2001) Drama / Mystery [R] upstairs/downstairs social mores.

 Gothika 7 A therapist at a mental institution for women has a breakdown that Kassovitz, M & Oliphant, T (2003) Thriller [R] she can't explain. Pretty spooky "what's happening??" kind of film that leads to a fairly standard ending.

 Grand Budapest Hotel 9 Another small masterpiece from Anderson follows the life of a Anderson, Wes (2014) Comedy [R] concierge in a post-WW1 hotel. Plus a LOT of other stuff. A keeper.

 Grandmaster, The 8 Wong Kar Wai pays tribute to Ip Man in a blend of impressively Wong, Kar Wai (2013) Action / Martial Arts staged kung fu action, emotional backstory and his typically [PG-13] gorgeous, painterly visuals. If there is such a thing as a martial arts date movie, this is one of them.

 Grave of the Fireflies 9 A masterpiece of animated drama from Studio Ghibli about a brother Takahata, Isao (1988) Drama [PG] and sister living in the aftermath of WWII fire-bombing.

 Great Raid, The 9 Based on a not-famous-enough 1945 rescue of 500 soldiers from a Dahl, John (2005) Action [R] prison camp on Bataan, this recreation combines personal stories with very satisfying action sequences to create an excellent, old-fashioned kind of war story.

 Green Mile, The 8 Fantasy from Stephen King about a very, very large dude who can (1999) Drama [R] heal people, but who winds up on death row.

 Green Room 8 A struggling punk band stumbles into a gig at a pit of Hell managed Saulnier, Jeremy (2015) Thriller / Horror [R] by a quietly menacing Patrick Stewart. A bit of the old ultra-violence ensues. This is a tight, believable thriller that is constructed like a horror movie; be prepared for it.

 Green Zone 8 Slightly fictionalized but true to the facts story of government intrigue Greengrass, Paul (2010) Action [R] in justifying the war in Iraq, with Matt Damon dependably all-American.

 Greenfingers 8 An entertaining character drama based on a true story about a Hershman, Joel (2000) Drama / Comedy [R] prisoner who finds his calling in a dirtier but more fulfilling profession.  Grosse Pointe Blank 8 An assassin's new "job" takes him by coincidence to his home town,  Armitage, George (1997) Crime / Comedy [R] where his 10 year class reunion is about to occur. A classic black comedy.

 Groundhog Day 8 One of Bill Murray's best movies, about a man forced to relive a Ramis, Harold (1997) Comedy / Fantasy [PG] single day over and over again until he gets it right, dammit.

 Grudge, The 8 Switching the major roles to Americans in very similar movie, the Shimizu, Takashi (2004) Horror [PG-13] director remakes his 2003 film about a black hole of evil from which no one gets a pass. Reasonably creepy if you appreciate Japanese horror.

 Guard, The 9 A somewhat misanthropic loner who happens to be a member of the McDonagh, John Michael (2011) Crime / Thriller Irish Garda go after a big drug deal as a visiting FBI agent watches in [R] befuddled wonder. Great characters fill this absorbing crime drama.

 Guest of Cindy Sherman 8 A very entertaining doc that examines the confluence of art, fame and Donahue, T & Hasegawa-Overacke (2008) celebrity (both attained and dreaded) as the camera-wielding host of Documentary [UR] an irreverent public access show about the New York art scene meets an artist who is both famous and famously invisible. Not an exposé at all, but a meditation on the dynamics of relationships amid the unfortunately hyperbolic physics of the art and celebrity markets.

 Guest, The 7 Enjoyable not as much for the somewhat obvious premise, but for the Wingard, Adam (2014) Thriller [R] performances, especially that of Dan Stevens as the kind and very competent ex-soldier who befriends a grieving family.

 Guilty, The 8 A Danish emergency call officer, facing an impending personal crisis, Möller, Gustav (2018) Thriller [R] attempts to save a woman who may have been abducted. Like "Locke" before it, this film demonstrates that a film only needs a person, a phone and a twisting script to keep you riveted to what might happen next.  Guru, The 7 An entertaining mix of Hollywood romance and Bollywood (Indian)  Mayer, Daisy Von Scherler (2003) Comedy [R] dance movies, spiced by off-kilter characters and on-target humor.

 Hail Caeser 8 The Coens make a knowing comedy about Hollywood in the 1950s, Ethan Coen, Joel Coen (2016) Comedy / Film pulling all the excess, the cynicism and cold war paranoia into the Noir [PG-13] mix. It's almost too much, in that you sense that each of the intertwining stories could have been developed into their own films, but as a result it never drags.

 Hail, Caesar! 9 The Coens recreate the Hollywood of the 50s, in all of its surface glitz Coen, E & Coen, J (2016) Comedy [PG-13] and hidden paranoia, as a studio "fixer" tries to find a missing actor in a Biblical epic. Includes a number of great performances and some impressive show numbers.

 Half Baked 7 (1998) Comedy [R]

 Hancock 8 The nifty seditious premise of this movie and a few twists in the plot Berg, Peter (2008) Sci-fi [PG-13] make this a nice change from your average super-hero movie. With Will Smith, it is all the more entertaining.

 Handmaiden, The 9 A woman living in a den of thieves is given the opportunity to be the Park, Chan-Wook (2016) Drama [NR] handmaiden to a rich man's niece. To say that all is not as it seems would grossly understate this excellent, explicitly sexy romantic drama that holds surprises for everyone.

 Hangover, The 9 A foursome wake up after a bachelor party in Las Vegas to discover Phillips, Todd (2009) Comedy / Mystery [R] that they cannot remember whatever horrible things happened the night before. This is a well-constructed puzzler that manages to be quite hilarious while it makes you guess how the various results of their night out might have occurred.

 Hanna 8 A road movie with a real difference, as a young girl with a mysterious Wright, Joe (2011) Thriller [PG-13] father and an equally mysterious geneology sets out from her sheltered existence in north Finland to finish — both literally and lethally — a chapter in her father's life. Great stuff for fans of movies with a twist on the usual cliches.

 Hanna 7 This Amazon Video version of the hit movie tells the story from the Various (2019) Thriller [TV-MA] original move, but ultimately adjusted to allow for more seasons. It suffers compared to the lean and edgy source film with its fairy tale imagery, but if this is your first exposure to this "special" girl hidden by her father from a mysterious organization, you will likely be riveted.

 Hannah Arendt 8 A biographical treatment of the woman and the infamous war crimes Trotta, Margarethe Von (2012) Drama [NR] trial that gave us the the expression "the banality of evil."  Happy Accidents 8 Marisa Tomei and Vincent D'Onofrio go round and round the question Anderson, Brad (2000) Drama / Comedy [R] of whether he is a awesomely skillful madman or what he claims to be. The less you know about this going into it, the better.  Happy Death Day 8 A sorority girl must figure out how to survive a killer while stuck in  Landon, Christopher (2017) Horror / Comedy some kind of time loop. Scary but also hilarious and clever. [PG-13]  Happy Death Day 2U 8 A serendipitous idea leads to an unplanned sequel that shifts genres  Landon, Christopher (2019) Comedy / Sci-fi but matches the comic imagination found in its horror movie [PG-13] predecessor. Jessica Rothe continues to be an impressive comic actor and her castmates supply half the fun of watching. The other half is the riffing on what happened in the original.

 Happy Texas 8 Two escaped convicts hide out in a small Texas town where they Illsley, Mark (1999) Comedy [PG-13] convince the locals that they know something about beauty pageants.

 Happy! 8 An ex-detective reduced to unsavory jobs for criminals is asked for Morrison, G & Taylor, B (2017) Comedy / Thriller help by the imaginary blue unicorn friend of a kidnapped girl. This is [TV-MA] over-the-top, twisted fun with Christopher Meloni throwing him into the role with messy enthusiasm.

 Happy-Go-Lucky 8 Mike Leigh brings a singular protagonist to the screen in this Leigh, Mike (2008) Drama [R] character study of a young woman whose personality seems to overcome everything life throws at her, including an exceedingly sour driving instructor. Definitely worth watching.

 Hard Day's Night, A 10 The Beatles, in a "you are there" documentary that is considered one Lester, Richard (1964) Documentary [G] of the classics, during the period when they were just pop idols and had not transformed into musical gods.

 Hardcore Henry 7 A man wakes up to discover he has been modified into a Naishuller, Ilya (2015) Thriller [R] super-soldier—or something like that. Yes, about three-fourths of this feels exactly like watching someone play a first-person shooter (look it up if needed) with superhuman mastery of the controller. The other fourth adds enough meat to make the movie worth watching once, as long as you like your meat so rare it bleeds profusely.

 Hardware 7 An atmospheric indie science fiction story with cyber-punk overtones Stanley, Richard (1990) Horror / Sci-fi [R] and some highly uncooperative equipment. Not perfect, but worth a watch.

 Harold & Kumar Go To White 7 A fairly entertaining cross between Animal House and Go, driven by Castle the quest for a certain style of burger. Leiner, Danny (2004) Comedy [R] HARRY POTTER

 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's 8 Although it can't beat the experience of reading the book, the world of Stone Harry Potter comes to life in this thoroughly enjoyable transfer of the book to film. Columbus, Chris (2001) Fantasy [PG]

 Harry Potter and the Chamber of 8 The next chapter in Harry's story continues with the same strong Secrets visuals and good-natured humor of the first. Columbus, Chris (2002) Fantasy [PG]

 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of 9 The third book is the one that convinced me this was more than just a Azkaban series of great kids' adventure books, and this is the first of the movies to be more than a gorgeous "Illustrated Classic." Still, read Cuarón, Alfonso (2004) Fantasy [PG] the books first!

 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 10 Faithful to the book without being a slave to it, this is the second Newell, Mike (2005) Fantasy [PG-13] Potter adaptation to function as a great movie on its own (but read the book to savor the details of what Rowling is up to). As always, the supporting actors are superb.

 Harry Potter and the Order of the 9 The directors of this series have found the knack of creating real Phoenix movies from the books without destroying Rowlings' own story arc, making it possible to say "if you liked the movie, you are really going Yates, David (2007) Fantasy [PG-13] to like the book! But read the book first anyway, you putz." This one is no exception.

 Harvard Beats Yale 29-29 8 For fans of documentaries, sixties culture and football, this recounting Rafferty, Kevin (2008) Documentary [PG] of a truly amazing 1968 football game provides a full dose of entertainment. The title is explained, both literally and symbolically, as we learn more about the teams and their time. And despite what might be claimed about his current occupation, don't try to convince me that Yale linebacker Mike Bouscaren isn't a hit man.

 Harvey 9 Jimmy Stewart and his large, imaginary rabbit friend make a Koster, Henry (1950) Comedy formidable combination in this adaptation of a stage play.

 Haywire 8 Soderbergh uses the talents of a female Muay Thai champion to Soderbergh, Steven (2011) Action [R] elevate the superspy genre and simultaneously upend it (along with quite a few male foes). Whether the glass ceiling has been demolished or not, some walls definitely have.

 Headhunters 8 An art thief's scheme spirals way, way, way out of control. This Tyldum, Morten (2011) Thriller [R] Norwegian crime thriller delivers the goods with more than a few twists and a bit of humor.

 Heads For Sale 7 A classic example of a Shaw Brothers martial arts film, in which a Jeong, Chang-hwa (1970) Action [R] sword-wielding young woman rescues the man she thinks has spurned her. It's a straightforward Saturday-afternoon B-movie, but you can see the kind of tropes that later influenced Tarantino's "Kill Bill."

 Heat 7 (1995) Adventure [R]

 Heathers 9 The social structure of a high school ruled by three Heathers and a Lehmann, Michael (1988) Comedy / Black [R] Veronica is upended when the latter falls for a Nicholsonesque bad boy. A winner for its merciless take on both high school clique pettiness and the romanticization of suicide.  Heavenly Creatures 7 Two teen girls from Down Under go from bad to worse to rilly, rilly  Jackson, Peter (1994) Crime / Horror [R] arful. Based on a true story.

 Hedwig and the Angry Inch 8 A transexual rock singer with one hell of a backstory chases after the Mitchell, John Cameron (2001) Drama / Musical man who done her wrong (one of them, at least). If rock and roll is [R] about being angry, Hedwig has one of the classic sources of inspiration.

 Heist 7 A twisting, Mamet-style story about a master thief forced to do one Mamet, David (2001) Crime [R] last job. Overall, well-done but some plot holes diminish the effect.

 Hell Or High Water 8 Two brothers start a bank robbing spree with a purpose that is less MacKenzie, David (2016) Drama / Thriller [R] obvious than it appears, as a retiring Texas ranger tries to anticipate their next move. A great mix of mystery, action and characters who exist in a very gray stretch of ethics.

 Hellboy 7 Well-directed live action transfer from a cult comic. Del Toro, Guillermo (2004) Adventure [PG-13]

 Hellboy 2: the Golden Army 8 A surplus of imagination adds to the well-crafted action sequences as Toro, Guillermo Del (2008) Fantasy [PG-13] our favorite flippant devil returns in a meet-up with a very angry elf.

 Help, The 9 This poignant but satisfying story covers the way that femail Taylor, Tate (2011) Drama [PG-13] African-American household staff were treated in the sixties. There are some great performances that touch on the many ways that people coped with injustice in their lives.

 Henry Fool 7 Often amusing but erratic comedy drama about two unlikely friends Hartley, Hal (1997) Drama / Comedy [R] and compatriots in the creation of literature.

 Her 9 Jonze explores the humor, drama and perhaps pathos inherent in cell Jonze, Spike (2013) Drama / Sci-fi [R] phone operating systems. A telling and slightly frightening look at the future of interpersonal relations, both organic and digital.

 Hero 9 With a clear nod to Kurosawa’s "Rashomon," this martial arts / art Zhang, Yimou (2002) Action / Drama [PG-13] house film takes us to the early days of the Chinese nation, where three assassins, a local constable and the would-be emperor ponder the definition of a nation and whether it is worth dying for. This discussion is punctuated by exhilarating action and unforgettably dramatic visuals.

 Hidalgo 7 An American pony and his keeper in an emotionally satisfyiing epic Johnston, Joe (2004) Adventure [PG-13] adventure.

 High Fidelity 9 A self-absorbed music store owner looking for a stable relationship (2000) Comedy / Romance [R] revisits his earlier loves. With Jack Black as an archtypical music snob. Don't miss the deleted scenes.

 High Life 8 Not an action film but a drama about convicts sent on a one-way Denis, Claire (2018) Sci-fi / Drama [R] mission to a black hole with a creepy medical experiment tossed into the mix. Absorbing, claustrophobic and sometimes horrifying, but with a strong element of human interest.

 High Noon 9 The classic Western in which an entire town finds a reason to hide as Zinnemann, Fred (1952) Thriller [PG] a sworn killer is expected on the noon train. Dude, get some better friends...

 High Plains Drifter 8 Eastwood's classic "mysterious stranger" film, a concept that seems Eastwood, Clint (1972) Action / Western [R] to work its magic best as a Western.

 Hijacking, A 8 A cargo ship is hijacked by Somali pirates and we follow the Lindholm, Tobias (2012) Thriller [R] negotiations between the hijackers and the crew and between the hijackers and a calculating but not unfeeling corporate officer. A great examination of the human dimension behind far-off news stories.

 His Girl Friday 9 Hawks, Howard (1940) Comedy [PG]

 History of Violence, A 9 A hero's fame leads a vengeful mobster, claiming that he is an old Cronenberg, David (2005) Drama [R] associate, to his family's doorstep. Tremendously effective thriller that illustrates both the occasional necessity of violence and its corrosive effect on those it touches.

 Hit, The 8 Ten years after turning state's evidence, trouble finds an ex-con in Frears, Stephen (1984) Thriller [NR] the Spanish retirement to which he disappeared. Very strong performances, from three men who now sport impressive resumes, in an off-kilter road trip to an execution.

 Hitchcock 8 A look at the Hitchcock household in the time leading up to making Gervasi, Sacha (2012) Drama [PG-13] one of his most successful (and infamous) films, with an emphasis on just how important his wife Alma was to managing both his talents and his excesses. A bit of very apt conducting at the end seals the deal for fans.

 Rebecca 9 The grieving master of a fabulous estate brings a new and untainted Hitchcock, Alfred (1940) Drama [PG] wife into a household in the iron grip of the spookiest (and most haunted) ladies maid you can imagine. A tasty plot full of dark Gothic corners and surprises ensues.

 Mr. and Mrs. Smith 8 Hitchcock made a screwball comedy? An unexpected opportunity for Hitchcock, Alfred (1941) Comedy [PG] a bit of "extra-marital" romance presents itself to an Average Joe lawyer married to an unpredictable beauty, leading to much jealousy-driven comedy. Supporting actor Gene Raymond delivers a truly classic drunk scene.

 Spellbound 9 Ahead of its time in its examination of what would eventually be Hitchcock, Alfred (1945) Mystery [PG] called Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, this mystery about a psychiatrist, a new clinic director and a missing author does a good job of keeping you guessing.

 Strangers on a Train 9 Two strangers meet and idly joke about a plan that will rid each of a Hitchcock, Alfred (1951) Thriller / Film Noir [PG] personal problem. Unfortunately, one is serious about it. A great film with one of the cinema's most wickedly inspired crowd shots, of an audience at a tennis match.

 I Confess 9 Lauded by the French New Wave, this tightly constructed thriller set Hitchcock, Alfred (1953) Thriller [PG] in Quebec traps a priest in a Kafkaesque dilemma driven by the sanctity of the confessional and the strict social mores of the time.

 Rear Window 10 A photographer confined to his apartment amuses himself with the Hitchcock, Alfred (1954) Thriller [NR] "show" from his window until he begins to suspect a murder has been committed. Hitchcock manages to implicate the audience in the hero's voyeurism while delivering excruciating suspense.

 Vertigo 9 After quitting the force due to the malady of the title, a detective gets Hitchcock, Alfred (1958) Thriller [PG] involved with a woman who may be possessed by the spirit of a lovelorn suicide. Although the 2nd quarter could survive some trimming, Hitchcock again takes you through a true "WTF" plot twist, one that leads to a hotel room scene that delivers a complex emotional payload after a tantalizing build-up.

 Psycho 9 Oh, that person can't die because they are obviously the star of the Hitchcock, Alfred (1960) Thriller [R] movie. Hitchcock's genre-defining thriller is a tour-de-force of audience manipulation and visceral horror that still echoes in the public zeitgeist. H  Hobo With a Shotgun 6 A hobo who just wants a lawnmower opts to clean up a town ruled by  Eisener, Jason (2011) Action [R] a blood-crazed family. In the wake of the Tarantino/Rodriguez "grindhouse with modern editing and effects" movies, Eisener opens up a can of purism by actually making a grindhouse movie, with amateur extras and over-the-top villains in neat prep school haircuts. Wow.

 Hobson's Choice 9 A very set-in-his-ways father rules over his motherless brood of Lean, David (1954) Comedy [UR] daughters with an iron hand. Or so he thinks. A screen-filling performance by Charles Laughton is just the beginning of this great comedy.

 Holes 8 Excellent translation of the original book to film, especially for Davis, Andrew (2003) Drama / Comedy [PG] pre-teens and up.

 Holiday 8 Great comedy performances mark this tale of rich kids trapped by Cukor, George (1938) Comedy / Drama [G] their wealth, and the effects that the meeting of kindred spirits has on all. A precursor to 60's films about penned in kids needing to find themselves, but nobody wears jeans in this one.

 Holiday Inn 8 Sandrich, Mark (1942) Musical / Comedy [G]

 Holiday, The 7 After separate romantic disasters, two women switch homes as part Meyers, Nancy (2006) Romance / Comedy of a vacation service. The somewhat predictable events that follow [PG-13] veer dangerously close to a slope slick with chick-flick silliness, but good comic performances, chemistry and some pleasant subplots add up to a good date movie for people who like movies.

 Hollywood Ending 7 A too-serious director reduced to hack commercials gets a chance at Allen, Woody (2002) Comedy [PG-13] a comeback, then loses an extremely important ability. Reasonably funny effort with a good supporting cast.

 Hollywoodland 8 An effective, if necessarily not-quite-resolved what-if into the death of Coulter, Allen (2006) Drama / Mystery [R] Superman actor George Reeves.  Holy Mountain, The 6 A quest movie in which a Christ-like figure wanders through the  Jodorowsky, Alejandro (1973) Fantasy [R] director's imagination in ways only a 1970's director with a vicious anti-religious, anti-establishment bent and an bottomless mine of completely uninhibited visual ideas could pull off (that is, this movie could not be made today). Highlights include a recreation of the Aztecs defeat starring lizards and frogs, a testicle-collecting warrior king and... well, don't show this to your grandmother.

 Home for the Holidays 8 Holly Hunter's single mother and not-so-established professional Foster, Jodie (1995) Comedy [PG-13] woman has to contend with a progressive-minded daughter, regressive parents and crazy relatives at Thanksgiving in this anecdotal slice of one family's holiday.

 Homicide 9 A "go to" hostage negotiator becomes distracted from running down a Mamet, David (1991) Crime [R] dangerous fugitive by the random murder of a Jewish woman. Derailment ensues in a series of unexpected twists and choices woven together with electric dialog.

 Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves 7 (1997) Fantasy [PG]

 Honeydripper 7 The owner of a failing blues club hatches a plan to turn it around as a Sayles, John (2007) Drama hopping juke joint. Although it makes a nice exploration of post-war black culture, for this director it's a curiously flat movie that makes no attempt at generating real drama.

 Hoop Dreams 10 Follows the daily life of two basketball star wannebes and the way James, Steve (1994) Documentary [PG-13] their decisions and their environment affects their dreams.

 Horrible Bosses 7 Moderately entertaining comedy with a premise that is adequately Gordon, Seth (2011) Comedy [R] summarized by its title.

 Horse Whisperer, The 8 (1998) Drama [PG-13]

 Host, The 9 A rather excellent modern example of the tradition that started with Ho, Bong Joon (2006) Horror / Comedy [PG-13] Godzilla but which also subverts the very same formula, especially at the end. The director skillfully mixes broad comedy, creepy

 Hostage 8 A hostage negotiator hangs it up and "retires" to being a small-town Siri, Florent Emilio (2005) Action [R] sheriff, until three scumbag teenagers try to jack a car from a house whose occupant runs with an even worse crowd.  Hot Fuzz 8 Extremely entertaining, gross and consistently hilarious, this  Wright, Edgar (2007) Comedy [R] shark-out-of-water tale about an über-cop put on a leash includes well-disguised cameos and a slew of insider details that make it worth watching more than once.

 Hot Rock, The 7 A compentently made film of the Donald Westlake novel about a Yates, Peter (1972) Comedy [PG] jewel heist that goes wrong...and wrong...and wrong...

 Hot Tub Time Machine 7 An assembly of comedy parts that were known to have recently Pink, Steve (2010) Comedy [R] worked, tied together with sticky substances instead of a well-constructed plan. It's funny, but will fall apart quickly if you poke at it too much. I mean, really: Even fantasies need to have an internal logic.

 Hotel 7 An improvised movie about a movie, a hotel trafficking in illicit things Figgis, Mike (2001) Comedy [R] and maybe vampires. Not a complete success, but worth watching for the inventiveness of the actors.  House 6 An experimental film-maker makes his first feature an over-the-top  Ohbayashi, Nobuhiko (1977) Horror [TV-MA] horror movie based on "scary" ideas from his 11-year-old daughter, preserving all the unexplained craziness one would expect from the source while throwing at the screen every 1970's visual technique possible. See: kung-fu battles with firewood! Carnivorous pianos! Evil cats! Mysterious old aunts! A stepmother who seems to visiting from a completely different movie! Should not be missed if you are a fan of cult movies.

 House of 1000 Corpses 8 A well-crafted throwback to the classic no-punches-pulled, Zombie, Rob (2003) Horror [R] blood-drenched slasher movies of the 70's, by a director who understands the genre. Not for your grandma, so consider yourself warned.

 House of Flying Daggers 7 A martial arts art-house movie with a little more style than substance, Zhang, Yimou (2004) Action [PG-13] but still beautiful to behold.

 House of Games 8 Classicly twisted Mamet plot involving a psychiatrist who curiosity Mamet, David (1987) Crime / Film Noir [R] about con artists threatens to push her life out of control.  House of Yes, The 7 Definitely an independent film (with Parker Posey, of course): a  (1998) Comedy / Black [R] slightly demented younger sister tries to hold on to the brother on whom she has depended for love.

 Houseboat 8 A widower and his kids, a dilapidated houseboat and Sophia Loren. Shavelson, Melville (1958) Romance / Comedy What's not to like? [UR]  Housebound 8 This very entertaining mixed-genre film brings a delinquent young  Johnstone, Gerard (2014) Horror / Comedy [NR] woman back to her childhood home with a court-ordered ankle bracelet and an load of psychic baggage.

 Housekeeper, The 8 A sound engineer, whose wife has run out, hires a housekeeper and Berri, Claude (2002) Drama / Comedy [R] gets more than he bargained for in this satirical drama that is ultimately more realistic than one would expect from the premise.

 How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days 7 An enjoyable comedy romance about the eventual collision between Petrie, Donald (2003) Romance / Comedy two high-powered people who have made bets that can only lead to [PG-13] screwball results when they finally meet.

 Human Nature 7 A consistently humorous allegory in which a man raised as a chimp, a Gondry, Michel (2002) Comedy [R] woman who tends to look like one and a seriously repressed psychologist struggle to prove who is less human.

 Hunger Games, The 8 The first installment of this series, about a highly segregated society Ross, Gary (2012) Sci-fi [PG-13] that sends teenagers to battle to the death, is tight and tense.

 Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The 8 Our YA saga continues as Natniss and Peeta are labeled as rebels. Lawrence, Francis (2013) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 7 Katniss Everdeen rises to become a symbol of the rebellion against 1, The the ruling class. Lawrence, Francis (2014) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 7 The conclusion to the series brings the rebels into direct confrontation 2, The in the Capitol Lawrence, Francis (2015) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Hunt For the Wilderpeople 8 This adventure of a child-hating man and his juvenile delinquent Waititi, Taika (2016) Adventure / Comedy ward, who are fleeing the authorities in the New Zealand wilderness, [PG-13] is a touching and humorous examination of how lost people can rescue each other.

 Hurricane, The 8 Based on the story of Hurricane Carter, this details the probable Jewison, Norman (1999) Drama [R] events that led to Carter's wrongful imprisonment for murder.

 Hurt Locker, The 10 What kind of person volunteers to defuse bombs? This film provides Bigelow, Kathryn (2008) Thriller [R] a poignant answer in a series of vignettes as taut as a trip wire, joining the small group of movies that give you a visceral sense of what war is like.

 Hustle and Flow 8 A pimp discovers family and hope in some very unlikely places while Brewer, Craig (2005) Drama [R] he dreams of finding a way out of his current life. Even with some rough spots, this hits all the notes it attempts, ending with an unexpected but perfect grace note.

 Hustlers 8 Funny, somwhat disturbing (especially to males) and based on the Scafaria, Lorene (2019) Drama / Comedy [R] true account of a motherly pole dancer who found a way to work the male-dominated system. I

 I Am Curious (Blue) 7 Another slant on the same story told in the Yellow version, with more Sjöman, Vilgot (1968) Drama [R] emphasis on the nature of religion, especially in the form of official state churches.

 I Am Curious (Yellow) 7 A young adult in Sweden explores the status of Swedish socialism Sjöman, Vilgot (1967) Drama [R] and her own sexuality. Although you need a bit of history as a background, it raises worthwhile questions about the limitations of progressive governments and set an early standard in how to do non-smarmy sex scenes.

 I Am Sam 7 (2001) Drama [PG-13]

 I Kill Giants 8 A young girl exhibits some seemingly eccentric ways to deal with a Walter, Anders (2017) Fantasy / Drama [NR] personal loss. Although there is some impressive CGI to see, the movie is its own thing, a finely wrought drama about feeling alone in the world.

 I Origins 8 Except for one linchpin scene of unbearable tension, this is a low-key Cahill, Mike (2014) Drama / Sci-fi [R] but steadily more fascinating sci-fi/mystery/romance. It pulls together elements of real and speculative science as a framework for a militant atheist's journey into, for him, uncharted metaphysical territory. His search for a scientific connection behind some surprising discoveries leads not to the clear connection he seeks but rather back to the simplest and most basic kind of connection that a person can make.

 I Saw the Devil 8 A government agent's wife is the victim of a serial killer, setting off a Jee-Woon, Kim (2010) Thriller [R] relentless, over-the-top hunt by the widower. Although this pushes just a little into torture porn territory, it is more of a story of how no holds barred revenge against an apparently limitless evil can threaten to infect even the "good guys."

 I Sell the Dead 7 Although the writing isn't as tightly composed, fans of Buffy the McQuaid, Glenn (2000) Horror / Comedy [UR] Vampire Slayer will probably enjoy this series of connected anecdotes from a condemned grave robber.

 I Trust You To Kill Me 8 A bare-the-soul account of the almost too-old yet formidable Rocco Boyer, Manu (2006) Documentary [R] Diluca and his band's debut, shepherded through a mixed bag of British and European clubs by the endlessly entertaining Kiefer Sutherland. Should not be missed by anyone interested in the business.

 I'll See You in My Dreams 7 A retired singer singer restarts her life. Although it dances with the Haley, Brett (2015) Drama / Romance [PG-13] "chick flick" category it does not quite go where that genre wants it to.

 I'll Sleep When I'm Dead 8 Although filmed in color and in a modern setting, this is pure, Hodges, Mike (2003) Thriller / Film Noir [R] uncompomising film noir about people following the dark flow of their chosen lives to inescapable conclusions.

 I, Robot 8 An original story inspired by those of Asimov, this is a Will Smith Proyas, Alex (2004) Sci-fi [PG-13] action film that manages to keep you guessing as to who is good, who is bad and who is the baddest.

 Ice Age 8 (2002) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Ice Harvest, The 8 This very noir comedy celebrates Christmas in the land of the Ramis, Harold (2005) Thriller / Comedy [R] criminally amoral that was only just exposed in the Coen Brothers' "Fargo". Expect to laugh, but don't expect any Christmas cheer.

 Ideal Husband, An 8 Based on the Oscar Wild play, this comedy of manners, romance and Parker, Oliver (1999) Comedy [PG-13] the usual misunderstandings makes a successful jump to the screen.  Identity 8 What coincidence brings a group of people to a run-down motel with  Mangold, James (2003) Thriller [R] a crazed killer? Serious fun for thrill seekers.  Idle Hands 8 Above average horror spoof that is worth watching because of the  Flender, Rodman (1999) Horror / Comedy [R] deadpan humor.

 Igby Goes Down 8 Black humor and underlying emotional need combine in this tale of a Steers, Burr (2002) Drama [R] prep school lad who has lost his way.

 Ikiru 9 A drone in the middle of Japanese post-War bureaucracy is jolted to Kurosawa, Akira (1952) Drama [NR] life by his impending death. Kurosawa does Capra, but with a much sharper edge.

 Illusionist, The 8 An entertaining sleight-of-film costume drama in which a master Burger, Neil (2006) Drama [PG-13] magician goes against Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria (very loosely based on the "Mayerling" incident).  Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, 7 The wagon of a traveling minstrel show that wanders through modern The England, holds some rather enormous secrets, but so do some of the characters in this Terry Gilliam film that was Heath Ledger's last. Gilliam, Terry (2009) Adventure / Fantasy [PG-13]

 Impostor 7 An adaptation of a Philip K. Dick story about a top scientist who finds Fleder, Gary (2002) Sci-fi [PG-13] himself accused of being a replicant substituted for the real one. Better than average, but not earthshaking.

 Impostors, The 7 (1998) Comedy [R]

 In & Out 7 (1997) Comedy [PG-13]  In a World... 9 A beautifully written comic riff on feminism and family dynamics set in  Bell, Lake (2013) Comedy [R] the world of movie trailer and TV voice-overs, in which a woman living in the shadow of her father's voice gets a chance to break out. A treat for film fans.

 In America 9 A touching combination of drama, humor and a bit of suspense as an Sheridan, Jim (2003) Drama [PG-13] Irish family fleeing a personal tragedy makes a new life in New York City.

 In Good Company 8 Solidly written and well-acted comedy about age, soul-less corporate Weitz, Paul (2004) Comedy [PG-13] cronyism and going too far too fast.

 In Her Shoes 9 The relationship of very different sisters with something tragic in their Hanson, Curtis (2005) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] past blows apart in a spectacular fashion. This is a very knowing drama containing a lot of well-integrated laughs.

 In Order of Disappearance 8 After the suspicious death of his son, a Norwejian snow plow driver Moland, Hans Petter (2016) Action / Comedy [R] begins a methodical vengeance that, shall we say, snowballs in a way that will remind you of the Coen Brothers flavored with a bit of Tarantino. The director also used Stellan Skarsgård in the nicely nuanced crime comedy "A Somewhat Gentle Man."

 In the Bedroom 8 A perceptive character study unfolds as a couple works through the Field, Todd (2001) Drama [R] aftermath of a vicious murder.

 In the Cut 8 Meg Ryan plays against type in this gritty murder yarn about a police Campion, Jane (2003) Thriller [R] investigator with some unanswered questions in his life.

 In the Loop 8 A sharp political satire that follows the maufactured rush to start a war Iannucci, Armando (2009) Comedy [R] (in an unnamed country) by American and British collusion, but with a more realistic story line than "Wag the Dog" and fabulously scabrous dialog.  In The Mood For Love 8 In 1962 Hong Kong, two expatriates from other Chinese regions bond Wong, Kar wai (2000) Drama / Romance [PG] over mutual betrayal. Stately "piece of ordinary life" film with intoxicating visuals. Knowing the historical backdrop (on the DVD

 In the Valley of Elah 9 The arbitrarily brutal aspects of war are the hinge points of this Haggis, Paul (2007) Mystery [R] well-written story about a veteran's son who goes missing. Not something you'll forget quickly.

 Incendies 9 Upon her death, the will of a Middle-Eastern Christian woman Villeneuve, Denis (2010) Drama [R] challenges her children to unravel her mysterious past, leading to an oddyssey through the violence that permeates the region. The film scores as both a mystery-thriller and a meditation on the cycle of violence.

 Inception 9 Nolan takes corporate espionage to a whole new level (actually, three Nolan, Christopher (2010) Sci-fi [PG-13] or four of them) in this thriller based on the idea of implanting convenient "truths" in the drug-induced dreams of the victims. As much of a mind-bender as "Memento" was, but on a much grander scale and with just as cool of an ending.  Incredible Adventures of Wallace 9 Compilation of all three Wallace & Gromit animation shorts. "The  and Gromit, The Wrong Trousers" is still the best, but the other two are also very funny. Park, Nick (2001) Comedy [G]

 Incredibles, The 9 Extemely well-written humor plays off the plight of a super-hero family Bird, Brad (2004) Fantasy / Comedy [PG] in forced "retirement" while throwing in some of the most exhilirating actions sequences of the year.

 Independence Day 7 Will Smith battles apparently unstoppable alien invaders. It's a basic Emmerich, Roland (1996) Sci-fi [PG-13] remake of "War of the Worlds," but the modern-day riff on the final solution is laughable (if you understand computers at all).

 Indian in the Cupboard, The 8 (1996) Fantasy [PG] INDIANA JONES

 Raiders of the Lost Ark 9 A near perfect recreation of the adventure films of the forties, except Spielberg, Steven (1981) Adventure [PG] for the modern special effects and the sure hand of its director in constructing nail-biting action scenes. One of the films at the dawn of modern effects wizardry that made jaded movie audiences sit up straight, if not jump out of the chair.

 Indiana Jones and the Temple of 7 Although justly criticized for the level of violence in a PG-13 movie Doom and an annoying lead actress, this prequel manages to keep up the spirit of the original. Spielberg, Steven (1984) Adventure [PG-13]

 Indiana Jones and the Last 8 With the addition of Sean Connery as Dr. Jones, Sr. and a return to Crusade the always-effective Nazis as the main villains, this installment gets close to the nostalgic feel of the original. Spielberg, Steven (1989) Adventure [PG-13]

 Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of 7 A competent entry in the series, hampered by the "how do we top the Crystal Skull that" syndrome but freshened by its Cold War setting. Shia LaBeouf becomes another example of the New Annoying Character problem Spielberg, Steven (2008) Adventure [PG-13] who plays his character a bit too cool for his own good.

 Infernal Affairs 8 A detective and an undercover cop dance around the danger of trying Lau, Wai-Keung & Mak, Siu Fai (2002) Crime [R] to fool criminals without becoming indistinguishable from one.

 Informant!, The 8 Based on the true story of a food industry executive turned informant Soderbergh, Steven (2009) Comedy [R] who was more than what he appeared, this well-crafted character study hides some of its surprises in plain sight.

 Inside Man 9 A thesis on the evil hidden inside men, masquerading as a smartly Lee, Spike (2006) Crime / Thriller [R] twisting crime thriller.

 Insomnia 9 Two tainted L. A. detectives are "loaned" to solve an Alaskan murder Nolan, Christopher (2002) Crime / Mystery [R] in the season of the midnight sun. Re-make of a 1997 Norwegian film that holds its own against the original, with strong performances by Al Pacino and Robin Williams.

 Intacto 8 An unpredictable riff on the nature of chance and gambling, with a Fresnadillo, Juan Carlos (2002) Thriller [R] European flair.

 Intermission 7 Well-acted romantic thriller with a few unexpected twists and a good Crowley, John (2004) Comedy [R] share of laughs.

 Interpreter, The 8 A U.N. interpreter comes under suspicion after claiming to have Pollack, Sydney (2005) Thriller [PG-13] overheard an assassination plot. Nicely done riff on international intrigue and plays with our expectations regarding African politics.

 Intimate Stories 9 Amid the vast emptiness of the Patagonian landscape, we become Sorin, Carlos (2002) Drama [NR] intimate with three very different people headed separately to the same city. A touching, often funny tour de force of the human spirit pulled off with mostly first-time actors.

 Into the Forest 7 Two sisters learn to deal with a power failure that looks to be Rozema, Patricia (2015) Drama / Sci-fi [R] permanent. An absorbing story about the need for mutual support in very vulnerable situation, fitting neatly into a tiny niche called "post-apocalyptic chick flicks."

 Into the Woods 8 The director, actors and audience have a lot of fun in this entertaining Marshall, Rob (2014) Musical / Fantasy [PG] riff on various Grimm's fairy tales.

 Intolerable Cruelty 8 A scheming, divorce lawyer without a conscience mixes it up with a Coen, Joel & Ethan (2003) Comedy [R] scheming divorcee without a conscience. Can two wrongs make a right?  Invention of Lying, The 9 Even though it eventually resolves itself in a "romantic comedy"  Gervais, R & Robinson, M (2009) Comedy / conclusion, there is little else that is formulaic about this film, an Drama [PG-13] absurdist comedy that starts with a simple "what if" then suddenly veers into some profound questions about faith, kicked off in a scene of wholly unexpected intensity.

 Invincible 8 Set at the very beginning of Hitler's political rise, a simple Jewish Herzog, Werner (2001) Drama [PG-13] blacksmith's iconic adventure in a Berlin nightclub is an essay on both the triumph and vulnerability of innocence.

 Ip Man 8 Although it pretty much ignores the actual history of the main Yip, Wilson (2008) Action [R] character, this is an extremely accessible and entertaining film that integrates an emotionally satisfying wartime story (China vs. Japan) with the exploits of an honorable martial arts teacher.

 Iron Giant, The 10 A funny and observant animated movie about moral choices, Bird, Brad (1999) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG] packaged in an easy-to-look-at sci-fi format that also entertains parents. For parents who encourage their kids to ask intelligent Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 72 Jim's Video List I  Iron Giant, The questions, this one is a no-brainer.

 Iron Monkey 9 Extremely well-made adventure/comedy set in historical China. Not  Yuen, Woo-ping (1993) Action / Martial Arts as mystical as "Crouching Tiger" but equally entertaining. [PG-13]  Iron Sky - Director's Cut 7 While doing a PR-driven return to the Moon to boost the re-election  Vuorensola, Timo (2015) Sci-fi [R] chances of a Palinesque president, a U.S. astronaut discovers a planetary threat that has been hiding there for 70 years. For a crowd-sourced B movie, this is a lot of fun, especially with the more complete director's cut (which adds character development and new FX work). Look for a funny direct homage to a now-famous scene from "Downfall."

 Island, The 8 A city of people shielded from the effects of a world-wide Bay, Michael (2005) Sci-fi [PG-13] contamination learn that all is not what it seems. Fairly good sci-fi thriller that is all the better if you have not seen the irresponsible spoiler of a preview.  It Follows 9 A film that is sure to be loved by abstinence-only proponents  Mitchell, David Robert (2014) Horror / Thriller [R] everywhere, wherein a woman finds herself being followed by a deadly, supernatural presence after an error in judgment. This is an unsettling bit of horror film mastery that just drips — drips I tell you! — with juicy metaphors about the teenage years.

 It Happened One Night 9 A spoiled heiress is romanced by a "rough" character. A classic from Capra, Frank (1934) Romance [NR] old Hollywood.

 It's a Wonderful Life 10 A man, frustrated that he has put his own interests on hold for the Capra, Frank (1946) Drama / Comedy [G] good of the community, discovers what the world would have been like without him, leading to an emotionally transcendant climax that avoids becoming syrupy. Surely Ayn Rand never saw this, because we would have heard about her death by head explosion.

 Italian Job, The 7 The original, very entertaining British caper with MIchael Caine as a Collinson, Peter (1969) Crime / Comedy [G] smooth operator trying to bring home the bullion. Be prepared for the very sixtyish do-it-yourself ending.

 Italian Job, The 8 Just as implausible as the original, but with a real ending and higer Gray, F. Gary (2003) Crime / Comedy [PG-13] octane action scenes, this is a good Saturday night no-brainer flick. J

 Jack Frost 7 (1998) Drama [PG]

 Jack Reacher 9 Although Tom Cruise is apparently a stretch for the physical McQuarrie, Christopher (2012) Action [PG13] description from the novels, the movie itself is a real treat, with great dialog and very nice twists tying together the action at which Cruise excels. Based on the Lee Child novels.

 Jack Reacher: Never Go Back 8 The head of Reacher's old military investigative unit gets into serious Zwick, Edward (2016) Action [PG-13] trouble. An effective sequel that delivers.

 Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit 7 Branagh does a decent job directing this origins story about CIA Branagh, Kenneth (2014) Thriller [PG-13] analyst Ryan.

 Jacket, The 8 A wounded and possibly homicidal Gulf War vet finds himself in a Maybury, John (2005) Thriller [R] bizarre treatment program that reveals more than his doctor's realize.

 Jackpot 7 A man falls in with "lucky" lowlifes in a wrong place / wrong time tale Martens, Magnus (2011) Crime [NR] that goes in some unexpected directions. Consistently humorous and worth a watch.

 James and the Giant Peach 8 This is a winning translation of a Roald Dahl book. Selick, Henry (1996) Fantasy [PG] JAMES BOND

 Dr. No 8 James Bond investigates the murder of a British diplomat and his Young, Terence (1962) Thriller [PG-13] secretary in Jamaica. The first Bond film holds up well thanks to a good story and the way Connery inhabits the role. It also sets the precedent for villains who seem to have rather overestimated the space needed for their equipment. Includes the now-famous quote "A million dollars!" which still sounds expensive for a home aquarium.

 From Russia with Love 8 Easily the most realisitic of the early Bond films, with our hero trying Young, Terence (1963) Thriller [PG-13] to snag a Russian coding machine at the center of double-dealings. Includes a brutally thrilling fight in a train compartment that hints at what we would later see in the "Bourne" films. This is the first appearance of The Cat.

 Goldfinger 9 Often considered to be the best of the Connery films, with a Hamilton, Guy (1964) Thriller [PG-13] believable plot, two great villains (one quite quotable and the other quietly lethal) and just the right amount of gadgetry, including that Aston Martin that blew away 1964 kids who managed to sneak in.

 Thunderball 8 Perhaps the second best of the Connery films, although "From Young, Terence (1965) Thriller [PG-13] Russia With Love" is a competitor. It includes some great tech surprises and an impressive underwater shoot-out.

 You Only Live Twice 7 The first Bond adventure set entirely in the Orient brings a new flavor, Gilbert, Lewis (1967) Thriller [PG-13] although its pacing suffers from spending a little too much time on ceremony. Probably one of the most misogynistic of the early Bond films, even with its very competent female agent.

 On Her Majesty's Secret Service 7 Although the action scenes are expertly staged and edited (except for Hunt, Peter R. (1969) Thriller [PG-13] one bizarrely relaxing soundtrack), the introduction of Lazenby impersonating a kilt-wearing gay man, amid a bevy of empty-headed 1970s spa attendees, comes off as cheap laughs instead of defying Bond conventions. Better than expected (especially with Diana Rigg), but the first three Bond movies would rule for a long while.

 Diamonds Are Forever 7 Connery is back! However, the campiness that plagued later Bond Hamilton, Guy (1971) Thriller [PG-13] films is starting to creep in. Not good. Although the two BFF assassins add an element of inspired weirdness, it's a '70s film, so including gay bad guys isn't exactly a win for LGBT rights.

 Live and Let Die 7 The first of the Roger Moore Bond movies is a sort of "Blackfinger," Hamilton, Guy (1973) Thriller [PG-13] augmented with the comic debut of redneck Sheriff J.W. Pepper. However, you come away with a sense that you haven't been given the full Bond experience.

 The Man with the Golden Gun 8 A very high-priced assassin is hired to off James Bond, amid intrigue Hamilton, Guy (1974) Thriller [PG-13] concerning a revolutionary solar energy device.

 The Spy Who Loved Me 7 Bond meets his match in more ways than one as a Russian agent Gilbert, Lewis (1977) Thriller [PG-13] teams up with him to avert some real mischief from a fish-lover. A better than average Bond that still simply checks all the boxes. Jaws is interesting, but having to bite people is not as awesome as it may have sounded in concept.

 Moonraker 7 Gilbert, Lewis (1979) Thriller [PG-13]

 For Your Eyes Only 7 Glen, John (1981) Thriller [PG-13]

 Octopussy 7 Glen, John (1983) Thriller [PG-13]

 Never Say Never Again 7 Kershner, Irvin (1983) Thriller [PG-13]

 The Living Daylights 7 A beautiful assassin, a Russan defector and an evil arms merchant. Glen, John (1987) Thriller [PG-13] Sounds like a Bond film, and this first outing with Timothy Dalton contains more of the pure '60s Bond style than the Moore or Brosnan films.

 License To Kill 8 An underrated Bond film that continues the Dalton movies' aversion Glen, John (1989) Thriller [PG-13] to the silliness that crept into the series, having the feel of the first Connery films.

 GoldenEye 7 The first Pierce Brosnan Bond film delivers the goods with a little less Campbell, Martin (1995) Thriller [PG-13] of the belief-stretching we would see later (at least, until the tank scene).

 Tomorrow Never Dies 7 A media mogul try to pull a modern Hearst / Spanish-American War Spottiswoode, Roger (1997) Thriller [PG-13] gambit and James Bond scrambles to stop World War 3. One of the better Brosnan films, with less overreach in the stunts, a believably cartoonish plot and space for Michelle Yeogh to kick a lot of butt.

 The World Is Not Enough 7 Yeah. It's a Bond film. Come for the explosions, stay for the Apted, Michael (1999) Thriller [PG-13] head-scratching.

 Die Another Day 7 A suitably entertaining Bond movie (Brosnan's last) but you may be Tamahori, Lee (2002) Thriller [PG-13] forgiven if you confuse scenes from it with "The Fate of the Furious" and that isn't good for either film.

 Casino Royale 9 One can never say that this is the best Bond, but I suspect that there Campbell, Martin (2006) Thriller [PG-13] will nevertheless be future viewers who will someday be asking "Connery who?" That said, this is easily the best Bond Movie. It has the lean and mean quality of the early films, but the beautifully edited stunts are just believable enough to inspire a delighted grin.

 Quantum of Solace 7 Taking up where he left off, Bond pursues those responsible for his Forster, Marc (2008) Thriller [PG-13] love's death, but runs into a lot more action than heart this time, and can't seem to catch a break from those who are forever disposed to think he's "gone rogue." Docked one point for the exploding hotel. I mean...really?

 Skyfall 9 Mendes and Craig produce what can only be described as one of the Mendes, Sam (2012) Thriller [PG13] best two or three Bond films ever made, delivering equal parts blistering action and somber psychological backstories to help explain what it is that makes up a Bond and a Bond villain.

 Spectre 8 James Bond discovers connections between his recurrent problems Mendes, Sam (2015) Thriller [PG-13] with bad guys and a shadowy organization. Meanwhile the bad guys continue to demonstrate a breathtaking ignorance about the safe storage of explosive and/or flammable materials. Daniel Craig's fourth turn keeps up the standards associated with the modern Bond movies (that opening!), but there is no way it can match "Skyfall." J

 Jarhead 9 Based on an autobiographical book about a marine's frustrating, Mendes, Sam (2005) Drama [R] somewhat dreamlike experience in the Gulf War I, this manages to pull a lot of drama out of almost nothing happening.

 Jason Bourne 7 Although this is a tour-de-force of action, it veers a little too close to Greengrass, Paul (2016) Thriller [PG-13] the extremes of "Fast & Furious" in revealing a post-trilogy Bourne movie is really just an exercise in finding reasons to connect two hours of action scenes with people exclaiming "Wait!! You DON'T KNOW who Jason Bourne is????"

 JCVD 8 Jean Claude Van Damme plays himself, warts, failures and all, Mechri, Mabrouk El (2008) Drama / Thriller [R] getting involved in a bank robbery. A great idea that not only comes off very well, but actually allows Van Damme to do some serious acting. No kidding.

 Jeepers Creepers 7 This monster movie starts off as a definite '9' but eventually peters off Salva, Victor (2001) Horror [R] to about a '5' when the creature begins to dominate the action. The acting is good, but even while making a self-referential attempt to excuse it, the two leads return to check out a disturbingly suspicious sight early in the movie when anyone with a brain would have found a phone no matter HOW far it might be.  Jennifer's Body 7 A shallow high school tease shows her true nature after a run-in with  Kusama, Karyn (2009) Horror / Comedy [R] some rockers with devilishly innovative self-help ideas, leaving her BFF to deal with it. One might take this as a so-so horror movie about man-eating women, except for the pair who wrote and directed — and the truck-load of Christian symbolism tucked into it. The concept may be too messy to really work, but worth a dinner discussion (especially if you've seen the far superior "Ginger Snaps").

 Jerry Maguire 8 A romantic drama about a football player's agent that puts not one Crowe, Cameron (1996) Drama [R] but two tag lines into the common lexicon: Is this the ultimate date movie?

 Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius 8 (2001) Sci-fi / Comedy [G]

 Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade 7 Very adult (but not sexually) Japanese alternate-history animation (1999) Action / Action with a fatalist attitude. Wonderful visuals and a good example of why anime isn't just for kids.

 Jiro Dreams of Sushi 8 A celebrated sushi chef plies his trade in a tiny corner of a subway Gelb, David (2011) Documentary [PG] basement. Fascinating study of a man who cannot be separated from his profession.

 Jodorowski's Dune 7 The tale of the greatest science-fiction movie ever not made, with the Pavich, Frank (2013) Documentary [PG-13] audience having to decide whether that label makes sense (because that talent that was involved was formidable) or not (because, well, Jodorowski is still Jodorowski). Worth seeing just for the tale of how Jodorowski got as far as he did, leading to a priceless in-theater

 John Dies At the End 7 The lives of two goofs are upended by a drug that seems to unbind  Coscarelli, Don (2012) Comedy / Sci-fi [R] the edges of time and space. A B movie elevated by some great dialog and imaginative plot developments.

 John Wick 7 A cluless bad guy does something really bad to someone who does Stahelski, Chad (2014) Action [R] not have a setting lower than 11. A perfect vehicle for an action star who cannot really act, it delivers exactly what fans of bloody revenge films are looking for with an admirable level of technical perfection.

 John Wick: Chapter 2 7 Continuing more or less where the first film left us, John Wick's Stahelski, Chad (2016) Action [R] second retirement is interrupted by a not-clueless-so-he-must-be-stupid bad guy who holds Wick's marker. Things goes as one might expect.

 Johnny English 7 Not the funniest spy spoof, but still has plenty of laughs, although I Howitt, Peter (2003) Comedy [PG] think the best bits were already in the preview.  Jojo Rabbit 9 Waititi walks a tightrope here, in danger of using comedy to minimize  Waititi, Taika (2019) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] the horrors of Nazi Germanyy. That disappears when you realize this is told entirely from the perspective of a lonely little boy who worships a fantasy version of his country's leader. Then Waititi delivers a sobering reminder, even as he celebrates the possibility of redemption.

 Journey To the West 8 This is a sublimely goofy, continuously inventive Buddhist take on the Chow, Stephen (2013) Adventure / Fantasy wuxia picture in which a pacifist, demon-hunting monk, who hasn't [PG-13] quite earned his robes, takes on both more opportunistic competitors and earthly temptation in his attempts to vanquish evil with supreme love. Although its CGI budget could have been more generous, as in Terry Gilliams' work you will want to watch this to see something completely different.

 Joy Luck Club, The 9 An adaptation of a novel by Amy Tan, weaving the stories of four Wang, Wayne (1993) Drama [R] immigrant Chinese women and their very American daughters in their searches for meaning and value. A very uplifting movie, but have your tissues ready.

 Joy Ride 8 Steve Zahn plays a young man who doesn't quite think through his Dahl, John (2001) Thriller / Comedy [R] actions and goads his brother into a practical joke that backfires with nail-biting results.

 Judy Berlin 8 Actors who normally inhabit supporting roles star in a nicely acted Mendelsohn, Eric (1997) Drama [NR] slice of small town life on the day of an eclipse.

 Jumanji 8 A beautiful children's book comes to life, with added poignancy. Johnston, Joe (1995) Adventure [PG]

 Jumanji: Welcome To the Jungle 8 Not a sequel to the original dominated by Robin Williams, but a new Kasdan, Jake (2017) Fantasy / Comedy [PG-13] riff on the idea of an all-too-real game (video, this time), but with four comic actors instead of one. Highly entertaining.

 Junebug 9 A very ambitious but loving art dealer takes a scouting trip with her Morrison, Phil (2005) Comedy / Drama [R] husband that includes a visit to his very Southern roots. An often hilarious examination of both the foibles and underlying strengths in people from very different backgrounds.

 Jungle Book, The 9 A Disney classic with a good collection of memorable songs. Reitherman, Wolfgang (1967) Adventure [PG] JURASSIC PARK

 Jurassic Park 8 Probably the first film in which you completely forgot the special Spielberg, Steven (1993) Sci-fi [PG-13] effects and settled into being scared senseless by primordial fears. A classic.

 The Lost World: Jurassic Park 7 Thought the disaster at Jurassic Park was the end of the story? Spielberg, Steven (1997) Sci-fi [PG-13] We've got a whole 'nother island waiting for you.

 Jurassic Park III 8 A boy gets stranded on the research island (still chock full of Spielberg, Steven (2001) Sci-fi [PG-13] dinosaurs), and our intrepid chaos theory expert goes against his best judgement to help.

 Jurassic World 8 Although it ignores the one question that every viewer asks from Trevorrow, Colin (2015) Sci-fi [PG-13] Scene One ("Hey idiots: haven't you learned how this is going to turn out?"), doing that lets us return to another helping of everything that makes these movies such fun, including an Irritating Character who is really more funny than she is irritating. However, there are hints that we may see a future fiasco along the lines of "Alien vs. Predator." Consider yourself warned.

 Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom 7 An entertaining follow-up to the first "World" sequel has yet another Bayona, J.a. (2018) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] home-brew monster wreaking havoc as the "Let's weaponize these critters" story line develops exactly as you might expect. K

 K-19: The Widowmaker 8 A 60's Russian nuclear sub gets rushed into service and a Bigelow, Kathryn (2002) Drama [PG-13] horrendous disaster results. A meditation on duty and sacrifice that hits pretty hard.

 K-PAX 7 (2001) Drama [PG-13]

 Kamikaze Girls 7 In many ways a sort of Japanese "Clueless" with an emphasis on Nakashima, Tetsuya (2004) Comedy [UR] wholly unrealistic grrrl biker gangs and the "Lolita" fashion movement. It's a generally enjoyable bit of silliness as a change of pace, often really funny to boot.

 Kangaroo Jack 7 (2003) Comedy [PG]

 Kate & Leopold 8 You can't go wrong (well, yes you can, but it's harder) with a Mangold, James (2001) Romance / Comedy fish-out-of-water time travel romance — there's just too much [PG-13] material from which to draw. Add two actors who have plenty of chemistry to share and you've got a great piece of entertainment.

 Keeping Mum 8 An English vicar's family, beset with a proper list of family troubles, is Johnson, Niall (2005) Comedy / Black [R] visited by a Mary Poppins-like housekeeper, who sets all aright. Oh, dear me— I believe something in my previous statement is not ENTIRELY true.

 Keeping the Faith 8 Very amusing, occasionally hilarious romantic triangle comedy Norton, Edward (2000) Comedy / Romance wherein religious themes drive a lot of the plot and humor. [PG-13]

 Khosla Ka Ghosla 8 A straight-forward, Indian comedy about a simple man whose dreams Banerjee, Dibakar (2006) Comedy [NR] of a new house are challenged by independent-minded offspring and local crime lords. A good intro for Westerners in which the Bollywood style is not quite as heavy.

 Kick-ass 9 Like "Shoot 'em Up," the title says it all as amateur superheroes battle Vaughn, Matthew (2010) Action / Comedy [R] professional mobsters, with one of the most unusual father-daughter relationships in movie history stealing the film, starting with a jaw-dropping variation on playing catch.

 Kick-ass 2 7 Although it plays with the situation where the first movie ended and Wadlow, Jeff (2013) Action / Comedy [R] does a good job of building some will-she-or-won't-she tension around Hit Girl, this installment seems derivative, wanders a bit and tilts off balance towards super-hero camp (the bad kind). Jim Carrey's disappearance into his character is a highlight.  Kid Stays in the Picture, The 8 A stylized and fascinating film version of producer Robert Evans  Morgan, Burstein And (2002) Documentary / autobiography. Comedy [R]

 Kids Are All Right, The 9 The balance of control gets shifted in a family with two moms when Cholodenko, Lisa (2010) Drama / Comedy [R] the kids decide to find the other half of their genes. A knowing, often humorous exploration of how relationships can get thrown into new orbits when a new person enters the picture.

 Kill List 8 A hyper-violent, often very funny tale about two hit men with a plot Wheatley, Ben (2011) Thriller / Horror [R] that is perfectly described by the word "unstable." In the end, the vaguely disturbing references to crimes committed in the past suggest that this movie is about overdue punishment of a most horrific sort. It is expertly woven together, but you may need a strong dose of Mary Poppins afterwards.

 Kill Zone 2 7 Although the plot depends on a massive coincidence, the principal Cheang, Pou-soi (2015) Action / Martial Arts actors in this tale of organ donors (willing and not so much) do a [NR] credible job with the emotional material involving a sickly young girl. The tension is real and the fight choreography almost produces a seamless blur. Tony Jaa of "Ong Bak" fame is one of the leads, but this is more of a thriller than the acrobatic tour-de-force of his earlier films.

 Killer Elite 7 An assassin must rescue one of his mentors who has been McKendry, Gary (2011) Thriller [R] kidnapped. Good fun with Statham, Own and DeNiro providing a decent amount of dramatic weight for a genre film.

 Killers, The 9 Siodmak's noir realization of Hemingway's short story is a classic of Siodmak, Robert (1946) Crime / Film Noir [PG] the genre and one of the great examples of believable but labyrinthian plot twists.

 Killing Gunther 7 In this farce crafted by SNL member Taran Killam, a group of Killam, Taran (2017) Comedy [R] assassins attempt to take out a mysterious hit man played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. The jokes hit often enough to make this worth watching.

 Killing, The 9 A police procedural spread across 26 episodes that take you deep Various (2013) Mystery [TV-14] into the lives of everyone affected by a single murder. Satisfying and full of twists, although by the end you may feel that being drowned in the trunk of a car was the least depressing thing that happens to the characters in it.

 Kind Hearts and Coronets 7 (1949) Comedy

 King Arthur 7 The Arthurian legend told as more of a grimy "could have been" Fuqua, Antoine (2004) Action [PG-13] history than the traditional fantasy tale, with well-staged action sequences.

 King Kong 9 The most famous ape in the world steals our hearts again while Jackson, Peter (2005) Adventure [PG-13] opportunists steal his soul.

 King of Kalifornia 8 A daughter who has learned to live on her own gets to reaquaint Cahill, Mike (2007) Comedy [PG-13] herself with her ex-con, half-crazy father — who is on a quest that may or may not be a figment of his dreams..

 King Solomon's Mines 7 An enjoyable African adventure based on the Haggard novel, with Stevenson, Robert (1937) Adventure [PG-13] singer Paul Robeson as a mysterious African who comes to the aid of an Irish woman and ultimately, Allan Quatermain (while singing some impressive but wholly out-of-character solo pieces).

 King's Speech, The 9 King George VI of Britain was a man who did not want to be king, Hooper, Tom (2010) Drama [R] largely due to his severe speech impediment. His unexpected ascension to the throne puts him in the position of needing serious help and the result is a dramatic story of growth.

 Kingdom of Heaven 8 During the Second Crusade, the bastard child of a knight defending Scott, Ridley (2005) Drama [R] Jerusalem shows his character in a film that actively seeks out reconciliation amid the stupidity of the war-mongerers.

 Kingdom, The 9 Getting off to a good start with a clever history lesson, this Berg, Peter (2007) Thriller [R] sometimes-wrenching police procedural (FBI investigates a terrorist hit in Saudi Arabia) builds to a white-knuckle climax that easily matches the best actioners of recent years.

 Kinsey 9 Without ignoring the potential downside to Kinsey's personal Condon, Bill (2004) Drama [R] approach to his love life, this film clearly portrays the social environment in which Kinsey's future detractors created their own worst nightmare: a man who believed in discovering and communicating the facts about sexual behavior as much as he did those about bugs.

 Kiss Kiss Bang Bang 8 The less said the better about this very funny noir spoof, with Robert Black, Shane (2005) Mystery / Comedy [R] Downey Jr. adding the manic energy (and hilarious narration) that only he can produce and Val Kilmer playing against type as a gay private eye / movie consultant.

 Kiss Me Deadly 8 This adaptation of a Mickey Spillane thriller is required viewing for Aldrich, Robert (1955) Thriller / Film Noir [NR] fans of the genre as well as anyone who wants to know where a certain prop in "Pulp Fiction" came from.

 Kiss Me First 8 Moving between the real world and a virtual one, a young woman Various (2018) Sci-fi [TV-MA] marked by a truly tragic guilt is befriended by a group of gamers hiding many secrets.

 Kissing Jessica Stein 7 A career girl finds herself becoming attracted to another female, with Herman-Wurmfeld, Charles (2002) Comedy / comedic results Romance [R]

 Kitchen Stories 9 Having thoroughly analyzed the female of the species in the 1950's, Hamer, Bent (2003) Comedy / Drama [PG] Swedish efficiency experts move on to study the domestic habits of rustic Norwegian bachelors. An enjoyable high-brow farce mixed with heartfelt drama about the importance of friendship.

 Knight's Tale, A 7 If you let yourself overlook the mix of modern elements in this tale of Helgeland, Brian (2001) Action / Comedy a squire making a play for a better life, you will enjoy the its comedic [PG-13] spirit to the fullest. Keith Ledger's breakout role.

 Knives Out 9 Johnson venerates the Agatha Christie "murderous family in a Johnson, Rian (2019) Crime / Comedy [PG-13] country house" mystery while pulling off an update that celebrates the pure of heart over cynicism. Highly recommended.

 Knockaround Guys 7 The sons of mobsters and their friends try to make their dads proud Koppelman, B. & Levien, D. (2002) Drama [R] but need help, a lot of it very unwelcome.

 Knocked Up 7 One of Apatow's more knowing comedies about the changes forced Apatow, Judd (2007) Comedy / Drama [R] on males and females by an unexpected pregnancy.

 Kong: Skull Island 7 In a movie like this, half the fun is the incredible editign in modern Vogt-roberts, Jordan (2017) Fantasy [PG-13] action scenes and the other half is betting on who in the cast is there to boost the body count. Good, wide-screen fun with a ho-hum plot. However, their military consultant might want to double-check the number of copters one could pack into a '70s era Navy cargo ship.  Kontroll 8 Romance mixed with the Kafkaesque lives of rival ticket inspectors  Antal, Nimród (2003) Thriller / Comedy [R] down in the caverns of the Budapest subway, with the added chill of a hoodie-shrouded figure who gives random passengers a very unhelpful shove towards the trains.  Koyaanisqatsi 9 "Life Out of Balance" Set to a soundtrack by Philip Glass, this is a  Reggio, Godfrey (1983) Documentary [G] perception-bending montage of scenes that transition from nature to the habitat of Man, but filmed in a way that may spark a lasting change in how you perceive modern life. KUBRICK

 Lolita 9 A professor of English lets his obsession with his landlady's daughter Kubrick, Stanley (1962) Comedy / Drama [NR] get seriously out of control, but he is dwarfed by the hiliarious but oh so sinister Quilty, played by Peter Sellers. The understated performances of the two leads, working under the strictures of 1962 American prudishness, still manage to convey the turmoil they are heading into.  Dr. Strangelove 10 Kubrick's broad satire of the Cold War mentality and right-wing  Kubrick, Stanley (1964) Comedy / Sci-fi [NR] extremism holds up decades later because it is based on the unchanging progression of "logic" that fear and misunderstanding bring to any crisis. The characters are taken from the actors in the politics of the time, especially "Buck" Turgidson, modeled on Gen. Curtis "Kill 'em all and let God sort them out" LeMay (for a real fright, look him up).  2001: A Space Odyssey 10 The audience does not realize it, but Kubrick starts this seminal work  Kubrick, Stanley (1968) Sci-fi [G] of mind-expansion by having the audience stare at a monolith for three minutes while listening to music they have probably never heard before. Understanding this is the key to what he is doing: Taking them into an experience that is connected to what they understand even as it takes them to the future—and beyond.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 81 KUBRICK  Clockwork Orange, A 9 The work of three geniuses (Burgess, Kubrick and Carlos) come  Kubrick, Stanley (1971) Sci-fi [R] together in this seminal adaptation of Burgess' book about the tension between unchecked "freedom" vs. enforced socialization. Few directors can be said to have reset the bar for a genre of movies, but here is Kubrick doing it a second time, with McDowell's wickedly erudite "Alex" plummeting to the top of the movie villain roster.

 Barry Lyndon 7 Kubrick channels the voluminous research for his failed Napolean Kubrick, Stanley (1975) Drama [PG] project into this sensuous, painterly story of an Irish ne'er-do-well who manages to do well—for a while. Famous for its visual compositions and nearly 100% use of available light.

 Full Metal Jacket 8 Kubrick returns to war as a vehicle for exploring the lunacy to which Kubrick, Stanley (1987) Drama / Adventure [R] men can sink.  Eyes Wide Shut 8 An errant husband stumbles onto a "party" that sets a new bar for the Kubrick, Stanley (1999) Thriller [R] phrase "fish out of water." In the same way the 2001 gave 1968 audiences an experiential taste of the mysterious universe, this film does the same for the paranoid sense that hidden evil has long been at work in the upper reaches of society. The European cut does not have the idiotic digital screening of some scenes. K  Kung Fu Hustle 9 Everything you've ever liked about action movies, kung fu fights and  Chow, Stephen (2005) Comedy / Martial Arts [R] Roadrunner cartoons, all rolled into one frenzied gift to anyone with a bag of popcorn. This would be a PG13 except for one initial murder and an "F" word in the subtitles (that is incomprehensible in the dubbed version). L

 L'Auberge Espagnole 9 A college student needing to master Spanish spends a year sharing a Klapisch, Cédric (2003) Comedy / Romance [R] Barcelona apartment. Funny and romantic, it also captures the bittersweet experience of leaving behind those parts of your life that you will always want to revisit.

 L.A. Confidential 10 Almost perfect modern example of a film noir movie, with great Hanson, Curtis (1997) Mystery / Film Noir [R] performances and a very twisted plot.

 La Dolce Vita 10 Fellini's classic about a spiritually doomed gossip columnist and his Fellini, Federico (2006) Comedy / Black [PG-13] social strata, who cannot focus his desires long enough to choose what he most deeply desires, even when an angel may be calling.  La Femme Nikita 8 Forget the first TV series or the lame American remake ("Point of No  Besson, Luc (1990) Thriller [R] Return"). This original sizzles in the sense of dread it brings to the action, which violently interrupts Nikita's desparate desire for a "real" life.

 Lady Bird 9 Captures the drama of being a high-school senior, knowing what you Gerwig, Greta (2017) Comedy / Drama [R] think you want and not sure if life is going to let you, all within a family and friends dynamic that will ring true for many people.

 Lady Eve, The 9 One of the classic Preston Sturges comedies. A young businessman Sturges, Preston (1941) Romance / Comedy meets a young woman on a cruise who is quite a bit more than she [PG] appears. The DVD has a wonderful commentary that is worth checking out.

 Lady Macbeth 8 Pretty much what might happen if Jane Austen had decided to write Oldroyd, William (2016) Drama [R] "American Psycho." A rigidly misogynist family obsessed with wealth and the production of heirs is invaded by someone they truly deserve.

 Lady Snowblood 8 A young girl is raised to exact revenge for her mother. Classic Fujita, Toshiya (1973) Action [NR] Japanese action film.

 Lady Vengeance 8 Layers of style, violently gritty realism and sometimes disturbing Park, Chan-Wook (2005) Thriller [R] emotions make up this tale of a woman imprisoned for a child murder who is released with a need for vengeance.

 Lake Placid 7 (1999) Horror / Comedy [R]

 Lantana 8 A character study disguised as an investigation into a woman's Lawrence, Ray (2001) Drama / Mystery [R] disappearance. The real drama is found in the lives of everyone from the suspect(s) to the detective on the case.

 Lars and the Real Girl 9 Although the cause of his problem is only suggested in the poignant Gillespie, Craig (2007) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] details, the solution to breaking the emotional shell a small-town man has created lies in a girlfriend of a most shocking sort. Yet, the ability of a few loving people to short-circuit his neighbors' understandable freak-out leads to a movie with a satisfying emotional resolution.

 Last Circus, The 8 The son of a Spanish clown is determined to follow the profession Iglesia, Álex De La (2011) Thriller [R] but, unable to become a Funny Clown due to the trauma of his father's wartime misfortune, he can only be the Sad Clown. Then he becomes the Angry Clown. Then the Scary Gun-toting Clown. Even not understanding the full implications of the Spanish history through which this movie threads, it delivers a fantasy-tinged, emotionally tense tragi-horror-comedy that keeps you riveted.

 Last Kiss, The 8 Pregnancy, marriage, parents and the desire to bolt mix into a Goldwyn, Tony (2006) Drama [R] well-written dramady that is worth a look. Based on the Italian film "L'Ultimo bacio."

 Last Life in the Universe 8 The worlds of a grieving librarian and a young man collide when the Ratanaruang, Pen-Ek (2003) Comedy / Thriller latter gets in trouble with the yakuza. An unexpectedly absorbing [R] little film with some nice plot twists and very interesting characters.

 Last of the Mohicans, The 8 This hits its high notes in the action and romance scenes and does a Mann, Michael (1992) Adventure [R] credible job recreating real people amid a hostile wilderness. Except, I didn't know that the 18th century wilderness had such good hairdressers available.

 Last Samurai, The 8 Tom Cruise is effective as a burned out Civil War ex-military man Zwick, Edward (2003) Drama [R] hired to fight in Japan, only to given his life back by his enemy.

 Last Stand, The 7 Schwarzenegger stars as a sheriff in the small U.S. border town Kim, Ji-Woon (2016) Action [R] beset by a Mexican drug smuggler trying to escape prison. A fun little action movie, although I can't remember if they address the direly needed backstory about his employment situatin.

 Last Supper, The 7 A guest who cannot make it leads to a random invitiation that leads to Title, Stacy (1996) Comedy / Black [R] a dinner discussion with a rather unexpected conclusion — and sets the stage for a more deliberate series of dinner "parties" designed to treat the liberal vs. conservative debate as skirmishes in a preemptive war (thank you, W, for such a great idea).

 Last Winter, The 7 Amidst the melting perma-frost, a drilling crew in Alaska battles Fessenden, Larry (2006) Drama / Horror [R] corporate authority while something frightening is being awakened from an ancient slumber. Not quite a horror movie, but creepy and effective nevertheless

 Late Night 8 The all-male writing staff of a fading female talk show host is invaded Ganatra, Nisha (2019) Comedy [R] by an inexperienced yet perceptive contest winner. Somewhat predictable, yet well-executed with great dialog.

 Laughing Policeman, The 7 A better-than-average police procedural from the period when gays, Rosenberg, Stuart (1973) Crime [R] strip clubs and spurting blood were cutting edge. The title is an ironic play on Walter Matthau's pathologically dour detective.

 Laura 9 A detective begins to obsess over a dead woman whose murder he is Preminger, Otto (1944) Mystery / Film Noir [PG] investigating. Superb twists and sparkling dialog among the various suspects elevates this above the average noir film by Otto Preminger.

 Lawless Heart, The 8 The death of a friend triggers changes in the lives of three friends. Hunsinger, Tom & Hunter, Neil (2001) Drama / An amusing and touching story told three times from each Comedy [R] perspective.

 Laws of Attraction 7 The adversarial relationship between wo successful divorce lawyers Howitt, Peter (2004) Romance / Comedy [PG-13] takes an unexpected turn without really developing a credible reason (unless this is actually the second half of a stalker movie). Love is mysterious, I guess.

 Layer Cake 8 A well-written British gangster film in which the carefully planned life Vaughn, Matthew (2004) Crime [R] of a cocaine middleman sinks into ever deeper layers of excrement.

 League of Gentlemen, The 7 One of the early caper movies, with a band of British ex-military Dearden, Basil (1960) Crime [UR] ne'er-do-wells plotting an ingenious bank job.

 Legally Blonde 7 Cute comedy with Reese Witherspoon, who must try really hard to be (2001) Comedy [PG-13] bad in a film.

 Legend of Drunken Master, The 8 One of the classic Jackie Chan movies, with the action star in peak Liu, Chia-liang (2000) Action / Comedy [R] form. The reason for the "R" rating is not exactly clear — this is a PG-13 movie.

 Lego Movie, The 9 Yet another "toy story" that works well as an action comedy—and Lord, P & Miller, C (2014) Comedy [PG-13] then in a brilliant twist goes to a place you will never expect.

 Lemon Drop Kid, The 7 An unlucky bettor uses the Christmas season to try to raise the Lanfield, Sidney (1951) Comedy / Romance money to repay a mobster. [PG]

 Lemony Snicket's a Series of 9 Three of the source books contribute to this enchanting dirge of an Unfortunate Events adventure flick, with fabulous sets and a wonderful trio of kids who nearly overshadow Jim Carey firing on all cylinders. Silberling, Brad (2004) Comedy / Drama [PG-13]

 Les Misérables 9 A very competent retelling of the Victor Hugo story, with Liam Neeson August, Bille (1998) Drama [PG-13] as the persecuted hero Valjean.

 Les Misérables 7 Magnificently realized remake of the stage musical, if you like this Hooper, Tom (2012) Musical [PG-13] style of musical.

 Let Me In 9 One of the few American remakes that can actually stand with the Reeves, Matt (2010) Horror [R] original, this tale—of an underdog befriended by a girl with dark secrets—moves to the frigid winter of New Mexico, duplicating the

 Let the Right One In 9 The best fiction, filmed or otherwise, asks a "what if" question that is Alfredson, Tomas (2008) Horror / Romance [R] answered as believably (within its context) as possible. This story of a boy who will never be twelve again and a girl (perhaps) who has been twelve for a very, very long time is going to become one of the classics of its genre.

 Letters From Iwo Jima 9 Eastwood brings us the alternate reality of what was happening in the Eastwood, Clint (2006) Drama [R] Japanese caves and bunkers during the events of "Flag of our Fathers." Together, the two create an unforgettable picture of a war that had enormous effects on the countries that waged it.

 Liar, Liar 8 An ignored son wishes his dad, played by Jim Carrey, would be Shadyac, Tom (1997) Comedy [PG-13] unable to lie for 24 hours. Hilarity ensures.

 Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp, 10 A stiff-lipped pre-WWII British caricature is transformed into a very The human character that you can't help but like. The original was chopped badly, so only get the newer DVD version. Powell, Pressburger and (1943) Drama / Comedy [PG]  Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou, 7 A meandering mood comedy with a mythical man-eating shark as the The MacGuffin. Good stuff if you are in the mood for it, but not Anderson's best. Anderson, Wes (2004) Comedy [R]

 Life As a House 7 (2001) Drama [R]

 Life Is Beautiful 9 A clownish waiter, woefully in the wrong place and time, deals with Benigni, Roberto (1997) Drama / Comedy Nazi oppression in the only ways he can. [PG-13]

 Life Less Ordinary, A 7 Somewhat unfocused but entertaining story of misfits running from an Boyle, Danny (1997) Drama / Comedy [R] angry and possibly dangerous dad.

 Life of Pi 9 A boy encounters tragedy and challenges when his family moves its Lee, Ang (2012) Adventure [PG] zoo animals from India to Canada. A riveting adventure story that pushes a little into fantasy while also examining the nature of faith.

 Life On Mars 9 Although this could also be categorized as "fantasy," it is the viewer Graham, M & Jordan, T & Pharoah, A (2006) who must determine whether this crime show, about a modern British Crime [TV-MA] police detective, who finds himself stuck in 1973's very messy, non-PC policing environment, is about a time traveler, a coma ward patient or a complete whacko. Strong characters, interesting plots and unresolved questions sustain it through its unpredictable second season conclusion.

 Life, Animated 7 The story of a child brought from mute helplessness to functioning Williams, Roger Ross (2016) Documentary [PG] adult by his father's discovery of a unique way to connect to him. Although it can be slightly cloying at times, it is nevertheless a demonstration of what persistence and patience can achieve.

 Lighthouse, The 9 Like Eggers's instant-classic debut "The Witch," this movie is almost Eggers, Robert (2019) Drama / Horror [R] impossible to describe in simple categories. It may be a fantasy, or a mood piece. It definitely has some horrific elements to it spiked with dark humor. Yet, the reason to see it has more to do with the experience of being immersed in this 19th century, moving daguerrotype "old sailor's tale" of two men, a lighthouse, a foghorn Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 85 L  Lighthouse, The and creeping insanity.

 Like Water For Chocolate 9 When Americans tell ghost stories, you get jump scenes and blood. Arau, Alfonso (2004) Romance / Fantasy [R] When those south of us do, you get orgasmic meals and bodice-ripping fantasies. ¡Abajo, muchacha!

 Lilo & Stitch 7 (2002) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Limey, The 8 An excellent not-what-it-seems thriller in which a British hit man tries (1999) Thriller [R] to find out what happened to his daughter in America.

 Limitless 8 When a very, very blocked writer stumbles onto a possible chemical Burger, Neil (2011) Sci-fi [PG-13] answer to his problems, he finds himself in a race to overcome the thing that might help him overcome it (you have to see it to understand).

 Lincoln 10 Unlike many biopics, Spielberg concentrates on the incredible effort Spielberg, Stephen (2012) Drama [PG-13] and maneuvering required to pass the 13th Amendment that abolished slavery, and settles any doubt that Lincoln was our greatest President.

 Lion King II: Simba's Pride, The 8 (1998) Fantasy [NR]

 Lion King, The 10 A nearly perfect rendering of the classic Disney kids themes. Minkoff, R. and Allers, R. (1994) Fantasy [G]

 Little Miss Sunshine 10 A household full of misfits and failures goes on the road to allow their Dayton, J & Faris, V (2006) Comedy / Drama [R] child to participate in a comically unsettling beauty contest. The prep work for a gut-busting finale is carefully hidden among the jokes loosed along the way.

 Little Vampire, The 7 A boy is befriended by another child...of the night. Reasonably Edel, Uli (2000) Fantasy [PG] entertaining adventure for kids.

 Little Voice 7 A peculiar but enjoyable tale of a reclusive young girl who consoles Herman, Mark (1998) Drama / Comedy [R] herself with her dead father's old albums while hiding an enormous vocal talent. Her man-eating mother's schemes with a has-been promoter add both drama and comedy to the mix.

 Lives of Others, The 9 A loyal and perceptive Stasi investigator is assigned, by conniving Donnersmar, Florian Von (2006) Drama [R] superiors with less then Leninesqe motives, to monitor a suspected Western sympathizer and his actress wife. A quiet but riveting study of justified paranoia in which nothing goes as expected for anyone involved.

 Living in Oblivion 8 A day in the life of an independent film maker, cleverly scripted and Dicillo, Tom (1995) Drama / Comedy [R] often painfully funny.  Lock, Stock and Two Smoking 9 Extremely entertaining, funny crime thriller.  Barrels Ritchie, Guy (1998) Thriller [R]

 Locke 9 In a span of several hours, spent entirely at the wheel of his car, a Knight, Steven (2014) Drama [R] past mistake leads to a British engineer's life unraveling in front of us, yet we leave with nothing but hope for someone who is clearly the strongest among all those in his life.

 Logan Lucky 9 Two southern brothers stage an "Ocean's Eleven" type heist with the Soderbergh, Steven (2017) Comedy / Thriller help of the less than competent Bang brothers, a "gang" led by the [PG-13] very non-suave and non-sophisticated Daniel Craig.

 Lone Ranger, The 7 Even with some questionable decisions and the off-kilter tone, this Verbinski, Gore (2013) Action [PG-13] remake of the classic TV show is worth seeing for the imagination of its vision.  Lone Star 10 One of the best writers in the movies weaves an old murder, Tex-Mex Sayles, John (1996) Mystery [R] history and family conflicts into more mystery than you can possibly guess; a consummate bit of sleight-of-hand that implicates its audience in its most important theme.

 Lone Survivor 8 A retelling of a true story in which a reconnaissance team is trapped Berg, Peter (2013) Thriller / Drama [R] on an Afghan hillside when their mission goes wrong.

 Long Shot 8 An oddest of the odd couples comedy-romance that works due to the Levine, Jonathan (2019) Comedy / Romance [R] sincerity of the to leads and the way it progresses more naturally than the "they hate each other, now they love each other" approach.

 Long Way Down, A 7 A washed-up celebrity decides to end it all on New Years Eve, but his Chaumeil, Pascal (2014) Drama / Comedy [R] plans are more than a little interrupted. Although it could have added ten more minutes of story development without dragging, this adaptation of a Nick Hornby novel benefits from some great dialog and (if you have not read the book) going in directions you don't expect.

 Look Both Ways 8 A woman who is artistically inspired/obsessed by death witnesses a Watt, Sarah (2006) Drama [PG-13] train accident that sets off a series of changes in the lives of a loosely connected group of people. This is an enjoyably inventive exploration of how people deal with life's final problem.  Look Who's Back 7 A political fantasy in which Adolf Hitler has been mysteriously  Wnendt, David (2015) Comedy [R] transported from his final day at the Führerbunker to the same spot in modern Germany. His deadpan insistence on being, uh...himself results in his being mistaken for the ultimate in method-acting comedians. A poison-tipped satire of modern culture ensues, a great mash-up of surreal comedy and "The Office" that works pretty well.

 Looper 8 The time travel genre is a continuous fount of possibilities in Johnson, Rian (2012) Action / Sci-fi [R] answering the questions of who, what and when. Looper's basic idea of mob killings that leave no trace (because they occur somewhenwhere else), provides some nice mental exercises along with the action.

 Lord of War 9 The life and times of an arms merchant, told with both drama and a Niccol, Andrew (2005) Thriller [R] black humor that does not negate the evil being portrayed.

 Lost 7 A well-executed, almost perfect tale of a mid-level manager who gets Lemke, Darren (2004) Crime [R] into trouble with a bank robber. Although not a horror film, it feels like an extended episode of a "weird tales" type TV show.

 Lost City of Z, The 7 The mostly true story of a British officer looking to restore his family Gray, James (2016) Adventure [PG-13] name. He finds the opportunity in explorations of the South American wilderness, looking for evidence of a lost civilization. A good, solid adventure story.

 Lost Highway 8 Lynch's brand of dramatic hocus-pocus leaves us wondering whose Lynch, David (1997) Drama [R] story is being told here.

 Lost in Translation 10 A beautifully rendered comedic mood piece about a satisfying, Coppola, Sofia (2003) Comedy / Drama [R] realistic friendship between two people trapped in lives of their own choosing.

 Lost Room, The 9 A cop's personal loss leads to discovery of a warped reality centering Harkcom, L., Leone, C. & Workman, P. (2006) on the contents of hotel room where, years ago, something went Sci-fi / Adventure [TV-14] very, very wrong. This mini-series is obviously a pilot, but it's a self-contained story and should not be missed.

 Love & Mercy 8 Brian Wilson was the musical genius behind both the Beach Boys Pohlad, Bill (2014) Drama [PG-13] and his own output of ground-breaking compositions, but suffered from mental health problems and even worse therapists until he met The Right Woman. You'll cheer.

 Love Actually 7 A very funny series of related tales about finding and holding onto Curtis, Richard (2003) Comedy / Romance [R] love that strays early into the territory of "Extreme Chick Fantasy Flick" leaving every fiancé in the audience hunkered down in the seat hoping his betrothed doesn't get any ideas. But the worst offender doesn't get the girl, so it balances out.

 Love Letter, The 8 A love letter, from an unknown person to an unknown recipient, Chan, Peter (1999) Romance [PG-13] changes the lives of all who read it.

 Lover, The 7 An adaptation of a semi-autobiographical novel by Marguerite Duras Annaud, Jean-jacques (1992) Drama [R] about a teenage affair with the scion of a Chinese merchant family. It manages to rise above being merely beautiful erotica by its portrayal of a relationship limited by not just the usual family resistance, but the aspirations of the participants, too.

 Lucky Number Slevin 8 A hapless young man continues a losing streak by falling into the McGuigan, Paul (2006) Crime / Comedy [R] clutches of two rival mobsters who believe he is someone else — someone with even worse luck. Dark humor and a twisting plot that leaves you guessing until the end make this worth your time.

 Lucy 7 Slightly disappointing in its final act, with a special effects "trip" that Besson, Luc (2014) Sci-fi [R] shoots for sci-fi significance but just doesn't go anywhere really new, this nevertheless grabs your attention for most of its length, as an unwilling drug mule gets a overdosed with a new, literally mind-expanding designer drug and takes a bloody trip through the Yakuza underworld.

 Lunchbox, The 9 The famous and infallible Indian lunch delivery system makes... a Batra, Ritesh (2013) Romance / Comedy [PG] mistake! A soon-to-retire cog in an accounting department receives the awesome lunches prepared by a frustrated housewife for her inattentive husband. Although it ends with you hoping to hope, the surreptitious passing of notes was never more entertaining.

 Lust, Caution 8 A tale of espionage, lust and betrayal sunk deeply in the culture of Lee, Ang (2007) Drama [NC-17] Japanese-occupied China during World War II. Lee takes his time to create his world, but does not pull any punches.

 Machine, The 8 A nice twist on the artificial intelligence meme, in part because of its James, Caradog W. (2013) Sci-fi [R] surprises and in part because of the balance of action and musings about the limits and costs of advanced technology.  Machinist, The 9 Well-executed existentialist mystery-thriller in which a machinist  Anderson, Brad (2004) Thriller [R] wastes away while trying to understand what is happening around him. Kafka would be proud.

 Mad Detective 7 Stylish thriller about a wrongly accused inspector who enlists the aid To, Johnny & Wai, K (2007) Thriller / Crime [NR] of a disgraced detective who has personality traits that are either psychic, psychotic or both.

 Mad Dog and Glory 8 Despite his penchant for morbid crime scene photography, a cop is McNaughton, John (1993) Comedy / Drama [R] befriended (or perhaps, be-girlfriended) by a grateful mobster whose life he saved. But the temporary loan starts to turn into a long-term mortgage on his life. MAD MAX

 Mad Max 7 An Australian highway patrol cop gets revenge for the loss of his Miller, George (1979) Thriller [R] family in a deterioting post-holocaust world. A real break-though in action films for its time.

 Mad Max 2: the Road Warrior 9 Miller completely blows away the expectations set in "Mad Max," Miller, George (1982) Thriller [R] producing one of the most constantly thrilling action pictures in movie history.

 Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome 9 Two movies in one: A classic Mad Max action thriller with a fully Miller, George (1985) Thriller [R] realized post-apocalyptic civilization, plus a haunting interlude involving a clan of lost children waiting for a savior. It manages to deliver what you expect in a Mad Max movie, but adds some true speculative thinking to that.

 Mad Max: Fury Road 10 Thirty years after the last Mad Max movie, when most directors would Miller, George (2015) Thriller [R] have retired, Miller returns with the best of them all, a action-movie blowout with a strong female lead, who pretty much takes Max along for an intense two-hour thrill ride. M

 Mad Men 10 This deliciously pitch-perfect recreation of a Madison Avenue ad Weiner, Matthew & others (2007) Drama [PG-13] agency in the 60's is one of TV's most unique creations. It tells the stories of complex and real characters, some tragically immersed in the conformist residue of America's post-war success and some beginning to understand what it has done to their souls.

 Made 7 Two losers try their hand at being runners for a local mob boss, with Favreau, Jon (2001) Comedy [R] less than stellar results. This is an alternate take in the same territory explored by "Goodfellas", but not quite as funny or tense.

 Madgelene Sisters, The 9 A sometimes horrific drama based on the true story of Irish Catholic Mullan, Peter (2002) Drama [R] asylums for "wayward" girls.

 Magnificent Seven, The 7 A U.S. remake of Kurosawa's "The Seven Samurai" that shows how Sturges, John (1960) Action / Western well an archetypal story can translate between cultures (or, per "A Bug's Life," species).

 Magnificent Seven, The 7 Fuqua's remake holds its own as a modernized, multicultural version Fuqua, Antoine (2016) Action / Western [PG-13] of the classic, multiply-remade Kurosawa story, with decent characterization for such a large ensemble and an appropriately

 Magnolia 9 A series of related vignettes, about the way fate changes peoples  (1999) Drama [R] lives, that manages to fascinate despite its length, with one of the most surprising endings (you are guaranteed to be surprised) in any movie I've seen.

 Maid in Manhattan 7 (2002) Romance [PG-13]

 Mail Order Wife 7 Fans of "The Office" will enjoy this played-straight mockumentary Botko, Huck & Gurland, Andrew (2004) Comedy about the client of a foreign bride service, his bride, and a filmmaker [R] who takes his art a little too personally.

 Majestic, The 7 A feel-good post-war story in which Jim Carrey does a creditable job Darabont, Frank (2001) Drama [PG] as a writer in trouble with the House Unamerican Activities Committee.

 Mama 8 Two little girls, one just a toddler, disappear with their father after a Muschietti, Andrés (2013) Horror [PG-13] tragedy. When they are found, it is apparent that someone, or something, else has been raising them. With Guillermo del Toro producing, this is another in the line of well-made, genuinely creepy, emotionally-resonant and gore-free shockers that we've come to expect from him (a good thing).

 Man From Nowhere, The 8 A woman and her daughter get on wrong side of some truly vicious Lee, Jeong-beom (2010) Action [R] gangsters, who subsequenty get on the wrong side of their mysterious neighbor, who appears to have serious intimacy issues unless it involves kicking someone's ass. This is a very straightforward comeuppance story, but faultlessly executed in the classic backwards rollercoaster rhythm (biggest rush last) of a well-constructed action flick.

 Man From U.N.C.L.E., The 7 This doesn't make it to the upper reaches of the comedy/thriller Ritchie, Guy (2015) Thriller / Comedy [PG-13] pantheon, but it has enough character, comedy and thrills to be worth a couple of viewings.

 Man in the White Suit, The 9 The clandestine experiments of a British industrial engineer produces MacKendrick, Alexander (1951) Comedy [G] a new product that has far-reaching implications for everyone around him. Alec Guiness stars in this somewhat subversive comedy as a overly-focused inventor, supported by solid comic performances and a some nice twists.

 Man of the House 7 A Texas Ranger must protect a gaggle of cheerleaders from a Herek, Stephen (2005) Comedy [PG-13] cold-blooded witness killer. Some suspense, with a reasonable number of laughs.

 Man On Fire 7 A burned out but deadly ex-operative takes an interim assignment as Scott, Tony (2004) Action [R] a south of the border bodyguard. When things go wrong, he falls back on his primary talent. A well-done if not totally satisfying vengeance tale.

 Man On the Train, The 8 A criminal planning a bank job falls into a friendship with an elderly Leconte, Patrice (2002) Drama / Crime [R] poet who has plans of his own. More of a character study than a crime film, but fascinating in its own way.

 Man On Wire 9 From his youth, the leader of a pack of kids with the money to master Marsh, James (2008) Documentary [PG-13] arcane skills has a goal of walking a tightwire between the World Trade Center towers. This excellent documentary rolls out like a realistic episode of "Mission Impossible," and manages to reveal more about its subject than perhaps he realized. Pushes its rating at the end.  Man Who Wasn't There, The 8  (2001) Drama [R]

 Manchurian Candidate, The 9 One of the classic political thrillers, with a subconsciously Frankenheimer, John (1962) Thriller programmed assassin whose target no one knows.

 Manchurian Candidate, The 8 A good retelling in its own right of the original's supressed memory Demme, Jonathan (2004) Thriller [R] device, but not quite its match.  Mandy 7 The idyllic Northwest woods domestic life of a lumberjack and his  Cosmatos, Panos (2018) Horror / Thriller [NR] artist wife morphs into a savage revenge tale with touches of other-worldly fantasy, animated breaks and a bit of Rob Zombie. A real trip, but suffers from the same problem as the director's last: It's a 90 minute movie stretched to two hours by absurdly slow dialog.

 Manhattan 9 Woody Allen's follow-up to "Annie Hall" is a love letter to New York Allen, Woody (1979) Comedy [R] City, a little problematic given his personal life (which may have been caused by a less-than-honest ex-wife) but ultimately satisfying.  Maniac 9 Emma Stone and Jonah Hill star as people with psychological issues  Various (2018) Sci-fi / Comedy [TV-MA] who volunteer for an experimental drug-based therapy. Inventive, surprising and often hiliarious, this is one of the better entries from Netflix.

 Margin Call 8 The discovery of the cliff to which their primary financial models have Chandor, J.C. (2011) Drama [R] led them triggers a struggle between ethics and expediency at a Wall Street firm. Some great performances help illuminate what it must have felt like in the late 2000's to realize just how enormous were the turds heading for the fan.

 Marjorie Prime 8 A thought-provoking extrapolation from the idea of holographic Almereyda, Michael (2017) Drama / Sci-fi [NR] projection and preserved memories that asks whether we would want to be given a second chance to interact with loved ones.

 Martha Marcy May Marlene 8 An escapee from a cult tries to assimilate back into "normal" life. A Durkin, T. Sean (2011) Drama [R] somewhat scary portrait of how humans can control each other. MARVEL

 Spider-Man 9 The first installment of this series brings believable characters into a Raimi, Sam (2002) Action / Fantasy [PG-13] mix of high-flying action and well-integrated humor.

 Hulk, The 7 Ang Lee plugs a little too much character development into a comic Lee, Ang (2003) Fantasy [PG-13] book story.

 Spider-Man 2 10 In the general entertainment category, Raimi stirs in all the needed Raimi, Sam (2004) Action / Fantasy [PG-13] ingredients and cooks up a winner that will completely satisfy anyone looking for high-style excitement with some emotional meat to it.

 Spider-Man 3 7 The common complaint that this installment included too many Raimi, Sam (2007) Action / Fantasy [PG-13] villains to do them justice is the only major flaw in what is otherwise an expertly made sequel.

 Iron Man 9 The origin of the metal-clad superhero, with Robert Downey, Jr. Favreau, Jon (2008) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] pulling off the penitent playboy perfectly.

 Iron Man 2 8 Tony Stark becomes the whipping boy for a very pissed-off Russian Favreau, Jon (2010) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] genius as he wrestles with how much of his technology should be allowed into the hands of mere governments.

 Thor 8 A nice combination of action, dialog and humor from a director one Branagh, Kenneth (2011) Fantasy [PG-13] might not associate, ever, with this genre of movie — but it works.

 Avengers, The 9 Joss Whedon, creator of TV's Buffy the Vampire Slayer, brings his Whedon, Joss (2012) Action [PG-13] expert melding of action, character and dialog to the world of Marvel Comics and scores a major hit. Hulk get best line.

 Amazing Spider-man, The 7 Although it's action is competently staged, this reboot of the series Webb, Marc (2012) Action / Fantasy [PG-13] only a few years after Raimi's soaring, definitive films seems pointless and predictable, with a score that seems to be by someone who has run out of ideas (or wanted to use the good ones in some other movie).

 Captain America: The First 8 This well-plotted origin story oozes nostalgia while it brings big battle Avenger tech to the fight against the Nazis and their hellish spawn, HYDRA. Johnston, Joe (2012) Action / Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Iron Man 3 8 A world-class terrorist wreaks havoc on Tony Stark with plans for the Black, Shane (2013) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] rest of the planet. Great humor—especially during a sequence with an admiring kid in a small town—plus some unexpected twists make this a fun watch.

 Wolverine, The 7 Wolverine in Japan. Mangold, James (2013) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 8 After the events of "The Avengers," Whedon and his crew picked up Whedon, J, Tancharoen, M & Whedon, J (2013) the less-blockbusting but no less entertaining story of a team of Sci-fi [TV-14] S.H.I.E.L.D. agents led by the apparently not-so-deceased Phil Coulson. This series has no limits, moving from Earth to alternate realities to outer space and different eras of time. The final season plays with not just eras of the 20th century, but styles of movies and TV. And manages to get in at least one song.

 Captain America: The Winter 9 Although the final battle has a "been there" feel, this sequel / tie-in to Soldier the mid-season plot of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." is pretty much non-stop action centered on a mysterious but lethal super-soldier and Russo, A & Russo, J (2014) Action / Sci-fi laced with a bit of deeper contemporary subject matter. [PG-13]

 Guardians of the Galaxy 9 A sci-fi fantasy every bit as good as Whedon's "The Avengers" (along Gunn, James (2014) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG-13] with a slight tendency for excess complexity), but with a cast of "heroes" who are not quite heroes.

 Jessica Jones 10 With its authentic noir feel and well-written humor, its exploration of Rosenberg, Created By M. (2015) Fantasy / Film both women's empowerment and the violation of the self, and with Noir [TV-MA] the most disturbing villain since Jerome Bixby gave us Anthony Fremont, this is easily one of the best Marvel adaptations to be found. Not to be missed.

 Avengers: Age of Ultron 8 After seeing what happens when space warps release mechanical Whedon, Joss (2015) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] nasties from other worlds, Tony Stark decides to turn over the defense of the planet to AI-driven robots. Bad move.

 Daredevil 8 A detailed origin story for one of the least likely heroes in the Marvel Various (2015) Action [TV-MA] ouevre. Good performances from all the principals, although Vincent D'Onofrio's vulnerable villain didn't really sell the "destroy the city to save it" motivation.

 Agent Carter 8 After losing boyfriend Captain America to nobility and a big deep Markus, C & McFeely, S (2015) Adventure freeze, Peggy Carter carries on in an über-chauvinistic intelligence [TV-PG] office in 1950s United States. Smartly written and often satisifying in its play on post-war culture, this amply demonstrates what Cap missed between the end of "Captain America" and its post-credits scene.

 Ant-man 8 Between Paul Rudd's very out-of-water fish and his "gang" of helpers, Reed, Peyton (2015) Sci-fi [PG-13] this movie is a hoot and that isn't even counting the Thomas the Tank Engine scene.

 Doctor Strange 8 Benedict Cumberbatch inhabits the role of the mystical, Derrickson, Scott (2016) Fantasy [PG-13] Eastern-trained wizard as easily as he does 221B Baker Street, in an origina story that manages to balance thrills, mushroom-worthy visuals and character-driven humor.

 Captain America: Civil War 8 The advent of legislation to register and control super-heroes divides Russo, A & Russo, J (2016) Sci-fi / Action the Avengers as a greater threat to the planet (no surprise) mounts. [PG-13]

 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 9 Although not quite as seamlessly told as the first, there is new Gunn, James (2017) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] attention to character development in the secondary characters that makes up for that, and the humor is still on the mark. Great stuff for sci-fi action fans.

 Spider-man: Homecoming 8 A great reboot of the series with an actor who slips into the Watts, Jon (2017) Action [PG-13] high-school role with ease, along with a much-better-than-average villain. The twists work effectively, including a final lagniappe with Marisa Tomei's much feistier Aunt May.

 Thor: Ragnarok 8 Waititi injects his brand of off-the-wall humor into the Asgardian's Waititi, Taika (2017) Sci-fi / Fantasy [PG-13] story without sacrificing the chills and thrills centered on a surprise in Thor's bloodline.

 Deadpool 2 9 The sequel continues in the hilariously violent style of the original, Leitch, David (2018) Action / Comedy [R] loaded with jokes and Easter eggs that both fanboys and cult movie devotees will love. However, the story has a better emotional underpinnng, leading to a very satisfying turn. Also has one of the best uses of post-credit scenes one can imagine.

 Avengers: Infinity War 8 The plotlines hinted at or touched on in a large chunk of previous Russo, A & Russo, J (2018) Action / Fantasy Marvel movies come together. Prepare to be blown away and [PG-13] horrified as a cosmic scale villain decides the universe needs some pruning.

 Ant-man and the Wasp 7 All the characters return, humor intact while Hope Van Dyne gets her Reed, Peyton (2018) Sci-fi [PG-13] well-deserved wings in this sequel that plays on the characters while adding a little more dramatic substance.

 Avengers: Endgame 8 The Avengers fight their way back from the tragedy and loss of Russo, A & Russo, J (2019) Action / Fantasy "Infinity War," but not not everyone makes it. Except for the surprising [PG-13] lack of screen time for one much-hyped character and a contrived girl-power moment, it gets the job done, leaving less-than-dry eyes, sometimes for good reasons. However, the payoff of this movie is

 Spider-man: Far From Home 8 Losing five years as cosmic dust was the WORST. So thought Peter Watts, Jon (2019) Action [PG-13] Parker as he tries to push aside the events of "Avengers: Endgame" on a class trip to Europe. Sorry, high school angst and elemental monsters haven't gone away. Great fun with the tropes of high school romance. M

 Mary and Max 9 Two lonely souls on opposite sides of the world become unlikely pen Elliot, Adam (2009) Drama / Comedy [UR] pals in a story filled with both the humor one expects from claymation but also the sadness of the human condition. More proof that mediums thought to be "kid stuff" can serve extraordinarily well when aimed at older teens and adults. If rated, this would be a PG-13.

 Mary Poppins 9 One of classic musicals, with great performances and songs to Stevenson, Robert (1964) Musical / Fantasy [G] match, although I suspect Disney included the excessively long animated park sequence just to piss off P. L. Travers.

 Mary Poppins Returns 8 Years after she set things right at the Banks household, things have Marshall, Rob (2018) Musical [PG] taken a bad turn. A good, fun sequel that seems just a little formulaic.

 Mask of Zorro, The 8 A very decent resurrection of both the character and the genre, falling Campbell, Martin (1998) Adventure [PG-13] back on solid action and well-placed humor, not to mention the eye-candy for both sexes.

 Master And Commander: The Far 9 An English ship chases a French enemy through several adventures Side Of The World with the audience practically smelling the salt in the air while ducking grapeshot. A definitive men-at-sea movie. Weir, Peter (2003) Adventure [PG-13]

 Master, The 8 Although one might be distracted by this film's "master" being Anderson, Paul Thomas (2012) Drama / Comedy obviously based on L. Ron Hubbard of Scientology, it is really a study [R] of what happens when waves of inspired (as in, concocted as needed) self-help break against a particularly damaged free spirit, whose obsessions often break into the narrative with eye-opening results. Joaquin Phoenix's performance is riveting and the supporting cast only adds to the drama, but the result, though never boring, is hard to judge as anything more than two Titanics passing in the night.  Matador, The 9 A friendless, globe-trotting (i.e., homeless) assassin on the verge of a Shepard, Richard (2005) Comedy / Black [R] hallucinatory burn-out strikes up a chance friendship with an average guy, with hilarious, unpredictable results.

 Match Point 8 A tennis pro accepts life as a club pro, accepts the attentions of a Allen, Woody (2005) Drama [R] loving society girl, marries her, accepts a job from her father, and so on and so forth as one natural occurrence leads to another until...oh, lawdy. A decidedly classic film noir from a surprising (but maybe not) source.

 Matchmaker, The 8 When a senator's assistant is assigned to find the great man's "roots" Joffe, Mark (1997) Comedy / Romance [R] in Ireland, a small but entertaining comedy results. Full of a lot of wonderful detail that makes it worth watching, along with a typically intelligent performance by Janeane Garofalo.

 Matchstick Men 9 The life of a successful but highly neurotic con artist is upended by a Scott, Ridley (2003) Comedy / Crime [PG-13] personal relationship he did not know about.

 Matilda 7 (1996) Fantasy / Comedy [PG] MATRIX

 Matrix, The 9 One of the action genre's best realized riffs on the nature of reality, Wachowski, A & L (1999) Sci-fi / Action [R] generating almost as many cultural references as Star Wars, but none better than the question "Red pill or blue?"

 Matrix Reloaded, The 7 Wachowski, A & L (2003) Sci-fi / Action [R]

 Matrix Revolutions, The 7 Wachowski, A & L (2003) Sci-fi / Action [R]

 Animatrix, The 8 A anthology of stories givng both pre-history and additional backstory Various (2003) Sci-fi [UR] for the events depicted in "The Matrix" series. Although it has the uneven quality of all anthologies, it's definitely worth a look. M

 Max Keeble's Big Move 7 (2001) Comedy [PG]  May 7 Black (very black) comedy about an outcast's extreme efforts to find  McKee, Lucky (2002) Horror / Comedy [R] companionship.  Mayor Of The Sunset Strip 8 A retrospective of the sad, funny, lucky, almost hard-to-believe career Hickenlooper, George (2004) Documentary [R] of a consummate rock and roll fan who served as a gateway to success for countless alternative bands.

 McCabe & Mrs. Miller 8 Robert Altman's study of an extrapeneur/gambler's emotionally Altman, Robert (1971) Drama [R] frustrating affair with a tough and equally entrepeneurial madame in a fledgling mining town.

 Me and Orson Welles 9 Based on a novel, this fictional adventure of a high school boy who Linklater, Richard (2008) Comedy [PG-13] lands a bit part in Welles' Broadway production of "Julius Caesar" pulls you right into the maelstrom of the Mercury theater and the personality of its mercurial head.  Me and You and Everyone We 8 A very funny, extremely offbeat but ultimately "true" group of  Know interlocking stories involving an awkward artist wannabe, a shoe salesman with just a hint of derangement, his kids and their July, Miranda (2005) Comedy / Drama [R] neighbors. May push the boundaries of some folks' tastes, but relax...you are in the hands of someone who loves people.

 Mean Streets 9 A slice of life in New York's Italian section. Rich and absorbing Scorsese, Martin (1973) Drama [R] characters follow a plot that really doesn't go anywhere (but that's exactly appropriate).

 Meet John Doe 7 A desperate newspaper reporter invents an equally desperate Capra, Frank (1941) Drama [PG] character who proceeds to have a wholly unexpected effect on the public.

 Meet the Parents 7 A reasonably amusing comedy that depends on the collision between (2000) Comedy [PG-13] Ben Stiller and Robert DeNiro.

 Megamind 9 In a way similar to how "Cabin in the Woods" was both a disassembly McGrath, Tom (2010) Comedy / Action [PG] and repurposing of the elements of horror movies, this perfectly rendered meta-movie does the same for superheros and

 Melvin Goes To Dinner 8 A hilarious and occasionally obscene adaptation of a stage play Odenkirk, Bob (2003) Comedy [R] about an unexpected restaurant "date" among four people separated by slightly less than four degress of separation.  Memento 10 A mystery told in reverse chronology that simulates the main  Nolan, Christopher (2000) Mystery / Thriller [R] character's memory-deficient world-view, defying your ability to predict its path. A brain-damaged insurance investigator with no short-term memory attempts to find his wife's murderer.

 Memories of Murder 8 With equal amounts of incompetency and violence, police in a rural Ho, Bong Joon (2003) Crime [UR] area attempt to solve the mysterious rape and murder of a young woman. A skilled detetive from the city steps in, but this is less about solving a mystery than exploring what seeking the truth can do to someone who cares about it.

 Memory of a Killer, The 8 This is a thriller with a twist as a hit man reluctantly takes a last job as Looy, Erik Van (2003) Crime [R] he begins to suffer from Alzheimer's disease.

 Men With Guns 8 A South American M.D. searches for former students he sent to aid Sayles, John (1998) Drama [R] poor villagers and finds that hope has been stolen by "men with guns." His search gradually evolves into a metaphor.

 Merci Pour Le Chocolat 7 A young woman sets out to meet a famous pianist who may be her Chabrol, Claude (2000) Drama [PG] father, while a sinister air hovers in the background of each scene. A mood piece masquerading as Hitchcock; meant to be more thought-provoking than easily satisfying.

 Merry Christmas 10 On the list of holiday films that will bring tears to your eyes (for the Carion, Christian (2008) Drama [PG-13] right reasons), true incidents of fraternization during World War I are woven into a fictional narrative that is easily the most meaningful Christmas movie you'll ever see. However, take its PG-13 seriously..

 Metropia 7 A call center worker in a decaying Eurasia connected by a vast Saleh, Tarik (2009) Sci-fi [UR] subway network begins to hear voices in his head that suggest that all is not as it seems...big damn DUH there. Done in a striking, monochromatic visual style with extraordinarily individualized characters (even minor ones), this is worth a watch even if it is not totally successful at connecting to us.

 Metropolis, Osamu Tezuka's 7 Although inspired by a poster for Fritz Lang's movie, this is an Rintaro (2001) Sci-fi / Sci-fi [PG-13] adaptation of an original manga about a future society built on the backs of the underclass.

 Mexican, The 7 (2001) Action [R] MIB

 Men in Black 9 Possibly the funniest science-fiction movie ever made, half due to the Sonnenfeld, Barry (1997) Sci-fi / Comedy premise and the rest due to the interplay of Mssrs. Smith and Jones [PG-13] with a sprinkling of wonderful "in" jokes.

 Men In Black II 7 Not as much a victim of Sequel's Curse as a victim of inevitable Sonnenfeld, Barry (2002) Sci-fi / Comedy comparisons to the original, although the "rescue" of agent K from [PG-13] the U.S. Postal Service holds its own.

 Men in Black III 8 All the ingredients of an MIB romp are in place here, with the addition Sonnenfield, Barry (2012) Sci-fi / Comedy of a consistently amusing Josh Brolin as a young Agent K and a [PG13] quietly developed dimension to the plot that leads to a surprising emotional payoff for an over-the-top comedy. M

 Michael Clayton 9 A law firm's skillful "fixer" is asked to fix the wrong problem. Great Gilroy, Tony (2007) Drama [R] performances by the leads adds to a well-written tale of corporate secrets.

 Micmacs 8 A man and his friends come up with an intricate and original plan to Jeunet, Jean-Pierre (2009) Comedy [R] destroy two big weapons manufacturers.

 Mid-August Lunch 8 An Italian bachelor taking care of his mother makes a deal, over an Gregorio, Gianni Di (2016) Comedy [NR] unpaid debt, that leads to humorous and life-changing consequences. A lot of fun.

 Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories 8 An anthology series of comedy and light drama, with each episode Various (2016) Drama / Comedy [TV-14] centering on a specific dish served by "the Master" at his tiny Tokyo diner that opens at midnight. The stories are entertaining, but the food and sense of place make this an atmospheric diversion for Westerners.  Midnight in Paris 9 A writer struggling with a change in career focus finds a visit to Paris  Allen, Woody (2011) Comedy [PG-13] having a very strange effect on him. Woody Allen pulls off another masterwork with a perfect tag line: "After midnight, Paris is magic." No kidding.

 Midnight in the Garden of Good & 7 Although there is plenty to recommend in this film version, it just Evil doesn't replicate the magic found in the book, which was not-quite a travel book and not quite a mystery but very much a magical mystery Eastwood, Clint (1997) Crime [R] tour of a quintessential Old South city.

 Mighty Joe Young 7 (1998) Sci-fi / Adventure [PG]

 Mighty Wind, A 8 A little drama mixed in to an on-target but loving parody of folk Guest, Christopher (2003) Comedy [PG-13] singers, their sanitized clones and the music business by the "Spinal Tap" folks.

 Milagro Beanfield War, The 8 Steeped in the "magical realism" found in Latin literature and film, the Redford, Robert (2013) Comedy / Thriller [R] story of a hapless Latino man—who runs afoul of big development plans when he decides to do something as simple as water his beanfield—and the community spirit that arises to help him (quite literally).

 Millenium Actress 9 Visually beautiful and emotionally absorbing story of an actress who Kon, Satoshi (2003) Drama [PG] dropped out of sight and her reasons for doing so.

 Millenium Mambo 7 A meandering slice of Tokyo life among the young and Hou, Hsiao-hsien (2001) Drama [R] not-quite-focused.

 Million Dollar Baby 10 A trailer park girl, with no place to go but up, goads a boxing trainer Eastwood, Clint (2004) Drama [R] with deep wounds into taking her on. One of the great movies of recent years, this one feints right and then nails you with a hell of a very left hook.

 Millions 10 Already blessed with a penchant for visions of saints, a young British Boyle, Danny (2004) Comedy [PG] boy comes into an unexpected sum of money. His and his brother's reactions cause some very, very funny consequences. A great alternative choice for the holidays.

 Mimic 8 Somewhat unpredictable horror story with an intelligent premise Del Toro, Guillermo (1997) Horror / Sci-fi [R] about engineered insects that mutate way, way beyond their designers intent, with strong performances from the actors.

 Mindhorn 8 The has-been hero of a hokey detective series is asked to solve a Foley, Sean (2016) Comedy [TV-MA] real mystery. Very funny British humor, with slapstick.

 Minions 7 The yellow, pill-shaped assistants from despicable me get their own Balda, K & Coffin, P (2015) Comedy [PG] movie, but it's fairly straightforward kids' fare

 Minority Report 9 Yet another well-made adaptation of a Philip K. Dick story, in which a Spielberg, Steven (2002) Sci-fi [PG-13] perfect justice system that catches ciminals before they commit their crime is found to be...imperfect. Duh.

 Miracle 8 No matter how often the story is told, it's hard to beat the "true-life" O'Connor, Gavin (2003) Drama [PG] sports story, this one about the American hockey team that challenged the unchallengeable Russians in the 1980 Olympics.

 Miracle of Morgan's Creek, The 8 Another classic Preston Sturges comedy, wherein a young woman Sturges, Preston (1944) Comedy [UR] discovers that her life has changed but cannot remember a very crucial detail about how it happened.

 Miracle On 34th Street 7 Acceptable re-make of the original story of a man who believes he is Mayfield, Les (1994) Comedy [PG] Santa Claus, mostly thanks to Richard Attenborough's performance.  Mirrormask 7 With her mother possibly dying from an illness, a teenaged girl slips  McKean, Dave (2005) Fantasy [PG] into a fantastic and vaguely disturbing shadow world in which an anti-Mother threatens to use her as a replacement for her anti-daughter. Worth seeing just for the imagery, but a bit talky.

 Miss Bala 9 A chance presence at a crime turns a beauty contest hopeful into a Naranjo, Gerardo (2011) Drama [R] piece of human driftwood in the uncontrollable currents of the Mexican drug war. Never amped up into a thriller, and with a undercurrent of existential horror, it's a movie that leaves you wholly unable to predict its course, taking you and its hapless heroine along for a very intense but authentic ride.

 Miss Congeniality 7 An FBI agent with almost no social graces is convinced to Petrie, Donald (2000) Comedy [PG-13] masquerade as a beauty contestant. A reasonably successful comedy.

 Miss Pettigrew Lives For a Day 8 Classic romantic farce set in pre-WW2 London, in which a fired Nalluri, Bharat (2008) Comedy [PG-13] governess, too principled for her own good, falls into the role of social secretary for a social-climbing actress. The result upends everyone's life, including her own. A champagne cocktail with a tiny splash of bitters.

 Mission to Mars 7 (2000) Sci-fi [PG]

 Mission: Impossible 2 7 Woo brings his trademark hyper-stylized action to the series, which Woo, John (2000) Thriller [PG-13] can push believability in a series that once pretended to be more about well-designed capers.

 Mission: Impossible III 8 Not a bad entry to this series. Abrams, J. J. (2006) Thriller [PG-13]

 Mist, The 9 Fatalistic, extremely effective tale of what hides in a blanket of mist Darabont, Frank (2007) Horror [R] that unexpectedly covers a town — and in a heart that has lost hope. This will scare the bejeebers out of you, but may not inspire you to watch it again. MIYAZAKI

 The Castle of Cagliostro 8 A much older Miyazaki film that may be hard to find, but shows off his Miyazaki, Hayao (1979) Adventure [PG] mastery of cinema-sized action and humor.

 Nausicaa Of The Valley Of Wind 8 A highly imaginative tale showing the early talents of a master. A Miyazaki, Hayao (1984) Fantasy / Fantasy [PG] princess battles to keep two species from going to war.

 Castle in the Sky 8 An early Miyazaki adventure film about a mystical floating city, with Miyazaki, Hayao (1986) Fantasy / Action [PG] action that rivals Spielberg.

 My Neighbor Totoro 9 Miyazaki's fantasy about two small girls who meet fantastic creatures Miyazaki, Hayao (1988) Fantasy [G] while waiting for their sick mother to return.

 Kiki's Delivery Service 9 One of Miyazaki's wonderful animations for kids that adults will enjoy Miyazaki, Hayao (1989) Fantasy / Fantasy [G] just as much.  Princess Mononoke 10 Historical fantasy from Miyazaki with ecological themes and his  Miyazaki, Hayao (1997) Fantasy / Fantasy [PG] unsurpassed animation.  Spirited Away 10 Miyazaki one-ups both Disney and Lewis Carroll in a story about a  Miyazaki, Hayao (2001) Fantasy [PG] girl trying to rescue her parents from a resort for Japanese spirits. Gorgeous animation that deserves a large screen.

 Howl's Moving Castle 8 A young woman's adventures with a wizard in a retro fantasy world. Miyazaki, Hayao (2005) Fantasy [PG] Another typically imaginative tale from this director.

 Ponyo 9 Although the art is a bit simpler than Miyazaki's usual style, this Miyazaki, Hayao (2008) Fantasy [G] fantasy about the son of a sea captain who finds a very special goldfish is full of the humanistic qualities and respect for his characters that he pours into all his films. M

 Modern Times 10 Chaplin's classic examination of life in the city. Chaplin, Charles (1936) Comedy [G]

 Molière 8 According to some historians, the comedic playwright Molière Tirard, Laurent (2007) Comedy / Romance disappeared for possibly two years before embarking on the tour of [PG-13] France that cemented his reputation. This film, then, is a very well-acted "what-if" that imagines him meeting the various inspirations for his most famous characters.

 Mondovino 8 The changing face of the wine industry, as told by some of the Nossiter, Jonathan (2004) Documentary [PG-13] movers and shakers and some of the diggers in and bird-flippers. I just have one word for you, son, and that's "micro-oxygenation!"

 Moneyball 9 Critically acclaimed film about the unorthodox, outside-the-box Miller, Bennett (2011) Drama [PG-13] method used by general manager Billy Beane to build the Oakland A's into a formidable baseball team.

 Mongol 8 The early story of Genghis Khan, showing his motivations for Bodrov, Sergei (2007) Drama / Adventure [R] gathering the Mongols into a unified group and the character that allowed him to do it. Great history coupled with state-of-the-art action sequences make this worth your time.

 Monsoon Wedding 9 Marriage: Indian Style. A very entertaining "slice of life" movie about Nair, Mira (2002) Comedy [R] the preparations, family secrets and cultural issues surrounding an arranged marriage.

 Monster's Ball 8 This drama about a family of racists and a romance that would have Forster, Marc (2001) Drama [R] once been unthinkable peels back the layers of stereotype to reveal real human beings in the middle of life-changing events. MONTY PYTHON  And Now For Something 9 Monty Python's best early bits, reshot for cinema. It was my first  Completely Different exposure—a true whack on the side of the head. I've never been quite right since. McNaughton, Ian (1971) Comedy [PG]  Monty Python and the Holy Grail 10 The ultimate and unmatched touchstone of film comedy—its first 17  Gilliam, T & Jones, T (1975) Comedy [PG] minutes obliterated any preconceptions of what could be turned into multi-layered, gut-busting humor. Warning: if you think it's all just silly, that is a character flaw best kept to yourself.  Monty Python's Life of Brian 9 If people thought that Python humor was often a divider of people into Jones, Terry (1979) Comedy [R] those who got it and those who did not, this tale of a hapless Jewish kid who is mistaken for a Messiah does extra duty as a divider of people who "get" Christianity and those who do not.  Time Bandits 8 Gilliam's first directorial effort is a hoot, taking a neglected kid on a  Gilliam, Terry (1981) Adventure / Comedy [PG] series of wild adventures in time and space.  Monty Python's the Meaning of 9 Monty Python returns with another series of over-the-top sketches  Life that supplied the world with multiple catch-phrases: "Every sperm is sacred," "...a wafer thin mint." Jones, T & Gilliam, T (1983) Comedy [R]  Brazil 8 Sci-Fi film noir craziness from ultra-imaginative ex-Python Terry  Gilliam, Terry (1985) Sci-fi [R] Gilliam.  Twelve Monkeys 9 A man is sent to the past to prevent urban terrorists from destroying  Gilliam, Terry (1995) Sci-fi / Comedy [R] civilization. More wild, time-bending fantasy from Terry Gilliam. M

 Monuments Men, The 7 The truish story of art experts sent into Europe to recover art stolen Clooney, George (2013) Adventure [PG-13] by the Nazis, as well as prevent their destruction by the same sore losers. It makes a nice old style war film with a twist, but never quite gels dramatically.

 Moon 9 An extremely well-executed examination of what it would take to fulfill Jones, Duncan (2009) Sci-fi [R] a three-year contract in a lunar industrial plant — with only a robotic helper as a companion — that turns out to be a lot more than you signed up for.

 Moonlight 9 The childhood, teen and adult years of a gay black man. An intensely Jenkins, Barry (2016) Drama [R] observed chronicle of man's struggle to surmount his environement.

 Moonlight Mile 8 Several top-flight actors bring to life a humor-laced drama about the Silberling, Brad (2002) Drama [PG-13] loss of both romantic love and one person's path to happiness.

 Moonrise Kingdom 10 Wondrous, knowing and off-kilter, nothing in this film is really Anderson, Wes (2012) Adventure [PG13] impossible, yet it transports you to a world of fantasy, perhaps simply an enhanced visual representation of the world of boys and girls reacting to the hints of coming puberty.

 Mortal Engines 7 With the exception of Shrike, the characters are from the standard Rivers, Christian (2018) Sci-fi [PG-13] checklist for this type of movie, however you cannot ignore the visual pleasures provided by Peter Jackson's team of world-builders. Worth a watch on the biggest screen you can find.

 Morvern Callar 8 In the midst of Christmas, her boyfriend thoughtlessly kills himself Ramsay, Lynne (2002) Drama [R] (but "don't worry"). As often subtle as it is gruesomely not, this character study of an aimless, wounded McJobber is absorbing all the way through.

 Most Wanted Man, A 8 This adaptation of a fatalistic John le Carré novel, about a German Corbijn, Anton (2014) Thriller [R] anti-terrorist squad trying to leash a big dog in terrorist financing while fending off wolves, is low-key but riveting, although you won't want to watch it more than once.

 Mother 9 A Korean woman turns herself into an amateur detective in an effort Ho, Bong Joon (2009) Crime [R] to exonerate her mentally challenged son from a murder charge. A very well written whodunit that turns out to be as much about a mother's love as a crime story.

 Motorcycle Diaries, The 9 The humanizing true story of the road trip that a young Che Guevara Salles, Walter (2004) Drama [R] took before he became one of the most famous radicals of the southern Americas.  Moulin Rouge! 9 A beautifully staged and wildly over-the-top musical drama of love  Luhrmann, Baz (2001) Musical / Romance found in the streets of old Paris. [PG-13]

 Mousehunt 8 Two would-be inheritors, as hapless as they are selfish, meet a Verbinski, Gore (1997) Comedy [PG] mouse from hell in this slapstick counter-point to "Stuart Little."

 Mr. and Mrs. Smith 8 A couple who met in a South American bar discover that each has Liman, Doug (2005) Comedy [PG-13] the same unusual occupation. Although older kids chomp at the bit to see this film, much of the humor flies right over their prepubescent heads.

 Mr. Holland's Opus 8 (1995) Drama [PG]

 Mr. Holmes 8 Ian McKellan brings the sleuth to life as he nears the end of the Condon, Bill (2015) Drama [PG] same, solving one last case that he himself has created. Low-key but absorbing character-driven drama about what a world-class mind does to ward off the effects of aging.

 Mr. Right 7 After a hit-man has a change of heart and starts killing anyone who Cabezas, Paco (2015) Comedy / Thriller [R] tries to hire him, he meets the equally bonkers woman of his dreams. Fairly predictable, yet bouyed by the rapid-fire dialog and chemistry of the two stars.

 Mr. Smith Goes To Washington 9 A political machine tries to replace a deceased politician with a naive Capra, Frank (1939) Comedy / Drama [NR] "boy scout" who believes in the country a LOT more than anyone else involved. A comedy classic that reassures us that politics was always this bad, but give people hope and they will respond.

 Mrs. Henderson Presents 8 Strippers as tableau "art" invade London just before the start of World Frears, Stephen (2005) Comedy / Musical [R] War II in this fact-based comedy about a newly widowed society matron who needs a hobby less dangerous than embroidery. Great performances, music, nudity and a few air raids make this a real variety show.

 Much Ado About Nothing 9 This early play by Shakespeare is moved, with only some trimming, Whedon, Joss (2013) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] to a Southern California residence, where its timeless themes of courtship and women's status ring true again amid a rejuvenated approach to its comedy. One of the small gems of recent adaptations and a favorite of critics.

 Mud 8 Two river kids looking for a bit of excitement get the opportunity when Nichols, Jeff (2013) Drama [PG-13] they find a mysterious squatter occupying a favored island hideaway. The interlinked stories of the stranger and other locals creates an story of lost souls, unexpected forgiveness and undying hope that you won't soon forget.

 Mulan 8 One of Disney's better grrrl-power movies, based on a legendary (1998) Adventure [G] Chinese heroine. A great mix of story and humor.

 Multiplicity 7 (1996) Comedy [PG-13]

 Mumford 8 A better than average comedy about a small town psychiatrist and a Kasdan, Lawrence (1999) Comedy / Drama [R] few secrets.

 Mummy Returns, The 8 The "horror" continues as another round with Imhotep gets rolling. Sommers, Stephen (2001) Fantasy [PG-13] Not quite up to its predecessor, but still quite a bit of fun.

 Mummy, The 8 Not as much of a horror film as a ripping adventure comedy, this Sommers, Stephen (1999) Fantasy [PG-13] reboot of the Mouldering One really works as entertainment, thanks to a decent story and the comedic talents of its cast.

 Munich 9 Tense, somewhat fatalistic retelling of the aftermath of the terrorists Spielberg, Steven (2005) Drama [R] attacks during the 1972 Olympics, as an Israeli secret service team hunts down the perpetrators.

 Muppet Christmas Carol, The 9 The muppets do Scrooge. Henson, Brian (1992) Fantasy / Comedy [G]

 Murder On the Orient Express 7 Branagh, Kenneth (2017) Mystery [PG-13]

 Murder Party 7 You really don't have to accept an invitation to every party you know Saulnier, Jeremy (2007) Horror / Comedy [NR] about. Especially when you find that invitation on the street. A nice little entry in the over-the-top, slightly campy-but-cool horror genre.

 Muse, The 7 Is she a true inspiration, a fast-talking con artist or both? This is a Brooks, Albert (1999) Comedy [PG-13] fairly amusing exploration of what drives the creative and/or sucker impulse.

 Musketeer, The 7 An interesting reimagining of the old story that will please fans of Hyams, Peter (2001) Adventure [PG-13] martial arts movies but may push the limits for traditional adventure fans. Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 102 Jim's Video List

 Mustang 8 Five orphaned sisters are raised by their grandmother and a possibly Ergüven, Deniz Gamze (2015) Drama [PG-13] predatory uncle in a conservative region of Turkey. Based on the director's memories of her childhood, this slowly unfolds into a sometimes humorous, sometimes devasting and ultimately triumphant tale of dealing with the conflict of modernity and tradition. From comments, you should avoid using this movie to support Western stereotypes of Turkish/Muslim culture — it's just a story but it's a riveting one that verges on being a thriller.

 My Architect 9 The son of a celebrated U.S. architect searches for an understanding Kahn, Nathaniel (2003) Documentary [PG] of the man who hardly had time for one family, much less the other two he had on the side. An absorbing inquiry into the nature of creative geniuses and the blowback from a devotion to an all-consuming profession.

 My Best Friend's Wedding 8 Julia Roberts in a classic "stop this wedding!" story. Hogan, P.J. (1997) Comedy [PG-13]

 My Big Fat Greek Wedding 8 Anyone with a remotely ethnic grandmother will identify with much of Zwick, Joel (2002) Comedy [PG] this very funny film.

 My Cousin Rachel 7 An Englishman tries to determine whether his benefactor has become Michell, Roger (2017) Drama [PG-13] the victim of a black widow. Based on a Daphne Du Maurier novel, it moves a bit slower than necessary, but maintains a tragic air of mystery that leaves everyone feeling guilty.

 My Favorite Martian 7 (1999) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG]

 My First Mister 8 A self-hating Goth girl lands a job at a men's clothing store and falls Lahti, Christine (2001) Comedy / Romance [R] into an incredibly complex, but life affirming relationship with its nerdy manager. A pleasant surprise in more ways than one.

 My Life As a Dog 9 A emotionally damaged boy in the throes of puberty is sent to live Hallström, Lasse (1985) Drama [UR] with relatives after his mother, already showing signs of bipolar behavior, becomes seriously ill. A heartfelt tale about growing when one finds a loving environment.

 My Mother's Castle 9 Taken from the memoirs of writer Marcel Pagnol, this is the second Robert, Yves (1990) Drama / Comedy [G] half of the story of his childhood love of Provence and happy family vacations. Thoroughly engrossing memory piece with a massive emotional payoff at the end.

 My Super Ex-girlfriend 7 Generally amusing variation on the super-hero genre, in which an Reitman, Ivan (2006) Comedy [PG-13] average guy has to deal with the consequences of having a needy, but super, girlfriend.

 My Talks With Dean Spanley 9 The survivor of two brothers tries to humor his difficult, emotionally Fraser, Toa (2008) Drama [PG] closed father, until a chance encounter with a cleric at a lecture about reincarnation sets all involved on an unpredictable emotional experience. A slow-starter, but this is an arrow that starts by pulling back slowly on your heartstrings.

 My Week With Marilyn 9 One of the participants, an earnest upper-class Britisher determined Curtis, Simon (2011) Drama [PG13] to get into the movie business, documents his experiences with Marilyn Monroe and Lawrence Olivier as the two clashed during the making of a film. Excellent performances bring out the complexity in the various relationships with America's most famous actress.

 My Wife Is An Actress 8 The husband of an actress finds that both normal jealousy and a Attal, Yvan (2004) Comedy / Romance [R] normal lifestyle are impossible. The pacing could be better, but there are some truly funny set pieces.

 Mystery Men 7 Dry absurdist humor rules as a vain superhero makes way for a Usher, Kinka (1999) Comedy [PG-13] group of under-under-understudies whose powers can only be described as...super-challenged. It's funny, but a few more gut-busting laughs would have been good.

 Mystic River 9 This is an excellent adaptation of the novel, capturing its "evil begets Eastwood, Clint (2003) Drama [R] evil" theme, but in translation it loses some of the depth in the original. N

 Naked Kiss, The 8 From its opening scene to its ending, this film noir masquerading as a Fuller, Samuel (1964) Drama / Film Noir [NR] Sirk-ish melodrama does not pull its punches — and throws some you will definitely not see coming. A stellar example of working (barely) within the confines of the era's standard Hollywood structure to tell a tale about real people.  Napolean Dynamite 8 Hilarious but often excruciating look at the life of a high school misfit  Hess, Jared (2004) Comedy / Black [PG] who begins to see a tiny glimmer of light at the end of his very, very dark tunnel. There's a slight tone of mean-spiritedness to this that would not have been noticeable if it weren't for events like Columbine.

 National Treasure 7 A decent "secrets of history" action flick that does not hit the level of Turteltaub, Jon (2004) Adventure [PG] Spielberg, but is still entertaining enough to recommend.  Natural Born Killers 8 Using a variety of styles and dark humor, Stone tells a  Stone, Oliver (1994) Crime [R] no-holds-barred story of two merciless sociopaths-in-love set against the backdrop of modern celebrity worship.

 Near Dark 8 A rethinking of a classic genre of horror, setting it in the western Bigelow, Kathryn (1987) Horror [R] prairie and populating the cast with some characters who would be quite scary enough if they were just human, with an optimistic twist on the standard lore. A good addition for your "now for something completely different" collection.

 Nebraska 9 Payne's hyper-realistic dramedy about a son indulging his father's Payne, Alexander (2013) Drama [R] quixotic belief that he has won a small fortune raises the bar for "knowing family dramas." The uniformly talented cast takes turns stealing the show, sometimes quietly and sometimes not so much.

 Negotiator, The 7 (1998) Drama [R]

 Neighbors 7 This raucous comedy, about a couple whose peace and property Stoller, Nicholas (2014) Comedy [R] values are challenged by the move-in of a fraternity next door, combines low-brow humor and visual gags with a dollop of high-brow examination of the urge to stay immature. Better than it probably should have been.

 Neil Young - Heart of Gold 9 Neil Young returns to Nashville and the Ryman Auditorium in this Demme, Jonathan (2006) Documentary [PG] beautifully filmed record of his concert performance.

 Never Been Kissed 8 Drew Barrymore plays a writer trying to break back into her old high Gosnell, Raja (1999) Comedy / Romance school for a "scoop" in this funny example of the "young again" genre. [PG-13]

 Never Goin' Back 7 Two best friends chase a beach vacation they cannot afford while Frizzell, Augustine (2019) Drama / Comedy [R] they and their housemates make stupid or amusingly bad bad decisions. Loosely based on the director's teen years, this follows the path of more polished films like "Go" but nevertheless manages to keep you on the edge of your seat.

 Never Let Me Go 8 A speculative film following the relationship and maturation of three Romanek, Mark (2010) Drama / Sci-fi [R] children at an English boarding school whose pupils are destined for a different sort of life than your average kid. Although not about anything too shocking (or provocative) it is nevertheless profoundly disturbing. It would be fun to have had an alternate ending with a equally profound amount of violence (you'll understand if you see it).

 New World, The 8 Malick's vision of the Americas colonial beginnings is both beautiful Malick, Terence (2005) Drama [PG-13] and sad.

 Newton Boys, The 7 (1998) Action [PG-13]

 Nice Guys, The 9 Excellent buddy film about two sparring, not-quite-compentent private Black, Shane (2016) Comedy / Action [R] investigators and a well-written murder mystery.

 Nicholas Nickleby 8 Nicely rendered version of a tale of downfall, recovery and fitting McGrath, Douglas (2002) Drama / Comedy [PG] retribution as only Charles Dickens can tell it.

 Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist 8 A series of "mix" CDs to a lost love are the catalyst in this winning Sollett, Peter (2008) Romance / Comedy [PG-13] romance structured on a road trip (through New York) to locate a secret concert.

 Night and Fog 10 A mercifully short elegiacal compilation that contrasts color scenes of Resnais, Alain (1955) Documentary [R] the tranquil remains of WWII death camps, and the Nazi's own brutal documentation of how thoroughly they redefined the meaning of "inhuman." A shot of a pile of human hair ranks as one of the most horrifying things I've ever seen. This should not be missed by anyone in their teens and beyond.

 Night and the City 10 A small timer with big schemes finds himself in the arc of what might Dassin, Jules (1950) Thriller / Film Noir [PG] be a big payoff in the London wrestling business. Noir at its absolute best: great performances, a plot that has been woven tightly even as it unravels at the other end, and a climactic struggle between two opponents that carries heavy emotional weight for all involved.

 Night at the Opera, A 10 Seminal Marx Brother comedy. Must not be missed. Wood, S & Goulding, E (1935) Comedy [PASSE]  Night of the Hunter, The 8 A classic story of evil coming to prey on a small town family. The  Laughton, Charles (1955) Thriller / Film Noir performance by Robert Mitchum is creepy enough and some of the [NR] film's quieter interludes are mesmerizing, but much of the other acting (especially that involving religious expressions) pushes believability. Called by some a noir fairy tale and the first cult film, you won't be disappointed if you like one-of-a-kind movies or films that inspired David Lynch.

 Night Shift 7 Two morgue attendants on night duty open up a sideline when a Howard, Ron (2003) Comedy [R] dozen call girls lose their pimp. Often funny and notable for Henry Winkler's complete break from form.  Nightcrawler 9 Jake Gyllenhall takes on overtones of Nosferatu as a bottom-dwelling Gilroy, Dan (2014) Thriller [R] but very serious entrepenuer, discovering that there is both money and self-validation to be achieved in video news. This one veers into the darkest of black comedy territory.

 Nightmare Before Christmas, The 7 (1993) Fantasy / Comedy

 Nightwatch 8 This Russian entry into the theme similar to that explored in Bekmambetov, Timur (1998) Fantasy / Action [R] "Underworld" (but without fur and fangs) is one of the better examples of action fantasy.

 Nine Lives 8 Absorbing, sometimes quite intense set of nine dramatic vignettes García, Rodrigo (2005) Drama [R] where a story is told in the small talk and significant gestures of the characters, some of whom share the lives of others.

 Nine Queens 9 In this extremely well-written and acted twister, a con man takes a Bielinsky, Fabian (2000) Crime [R] young man under his wing to pull off a major job involving a sheet of stamps. Even if you think you've figured out what is going on, you won't be sure until the end.  Nines, The 8 The mystery behind three intersecting stories in which the same  August, John (2007) Drama [R] people appear (sort of) is eventually revealed. A twister that plays games with you, sustained by a sardonic sense of humor about the imaginary worlds that actors—among others—build. Some critics apparently found the explanation too hard to understand, although it is right there in front of them. I mean, right there.

 Ninja Assassin 7 This is your basic ninja action film, but with better actors and McTeigue, James (2009) Thriller [R] everything turned up to 11. Not for people with an aversion to blood or medical cross-sections.

 Ninja Scroll 7 A bloody but well-executed Japanese anime fantasy. Kawajiri, Yoshiaki (1995) Action / Fantasy [NR]

 Ninth Gate, The 8 A credible tale of ancient evil hidden in religious symbolism. A good Polanski, Roman (1999) Fantasy [R] pick if you liked "The DaVinci Code."

 No Country For Old Men 9 Riveting meditation on the infectiousness of evil, with a brilliantly Coen, Joel & Ethan (2007) Thriller [R] unsetlling performance by Javier Bardem as a psychopathic Mr. Fixit.

 Nocturnal Animals 9 The ex-wife of a struggling novelist finds more meaning than Ford, Tom (2016) Thriller [R] expected while reading the novel he finally completes (a story-within-a-story playing out on the screen). The themes of betrayal and revenge make for riveting material as Ford's designer eye provides a rich backdrop.

 North by Northwest 9 Hitchcock, Alfred (1959) Thriller [PG]

 Northfork 7 The last days of a town doomed by the 1955 opening of a dam, told Polish, Michael (2003) Drama [PG-13] with a heavy mystical element and some very dry humor.

 Notorious Bettie Page, The 9 Although it covers some early traumatic experiences, this biography Harron, Mary (2005) Comedy / Drama [R] of The Pin-up Girl is more about the contrast between 1950's sexual anxiety and the freedom represented by a "good" girl from next door Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 106 Jim's Video List N  Notorious Bettie Page, The who had no vices, no pretensions...and no inhibitions. Although Playboy and its imitators tried in vain to duplicate her, only Gretchen Mol seems to understand that Bettie Page was literally the real thing.

 Notting Hill 7 (1999) Romance / Comedy [PG-13]

 Novocaine 7 A nicely twisted tale of entrapment with good performances; Steve Atkins, David (2001) Crime / Comedy [R] Martin's dentist is too much of a sucker in the early minutes, though.  Nurse Betty 8 A savage murder plunges a waitress into a self-reinforcing delusion to Labute, Neil (2000) Comedy / Thriller [R] find the soap opera character she thinks she is in love with. Smart and extremely funny but leavened with corpses by two hit men who think she may need killing.

 Nutty Professor, The 7 (1996) Comedy [PG-13] O  O Brother, Where Art Thou? 9 The Oddysey, if it had been set in the depression-era South.  (2000) Comedy [PG-13]

 Oblivion 8 Technically exhilarating post-apocalyptic actioner with a touch of Kosinski, Joseph (2013) Sci-fi [PG-13] emotional depth and some decent surprises, although not in the context of the genre's history. OBVIOUS

 Metropolis 9 (1927) Sci-fi

 City Lights 10 (1931) Comedy

 King Kong 7 (1933) Fantasy

 Lady Vanishes, The 9 (1938) Mystery

 Gone with the Wind 10 (1939) Romance [G]

 Great Dictator, The 9 (1940) Comedy

 Philadelphia Story, The 9 (1940) Comedy

 High Sierra 9 (1941) Film Noir

 Ben-Hur 7 (1959) Adventure

 Some Like It Hot 9 (1959) Comedy

 To Kill a Mockingbird 10 (1962) Drama

 How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 9 (1966) Fantasy / Comedy

 Man for All Seasons, A 9 (1966) Independent

 In the Heat of the Night 10 (1967) Mystery

 Graduate, The 9 (1967) Romance

 Lion in Winter, The 9 (1968) Independent

 Planet of the Apes 8 (1968) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Support Your Local Sheriff! 8 (1969) Western

 Willy Wonka & the Chocolate 9 Factory (1971) Fantasy

 Godfather, The 10 (1972) Crime

 Sleuth 9 (1972) Mystery

 Conversation, The 8 Coppola, Francis Ford (1974) Thriller [PG]

 One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest 9 (1975) Drama

 Jaws 9 (1975) Thriller [PG]

 Close Encounters of the Third 9 Kind (1977) Sci-fi

 Muppet Movie, The 8 (1979) Fantasy

 Thing, The 8 (1982) Sci-fi

 Back to the Future 10 Zemeckis, Robert (1985) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG]

 Untouchables, The 8 (1987) Adventure

 Field of Dreams 8 (1989) Fantasy

 Beauty and the Beast 10 (1991) Fantasy

 JFK 8 (1991) Mystery

 Silence of the Lambs, The 8 (1991) Thriller

 Fist of Legend 7 (1994) Adventure / Comedy  Sling Blade 9  (1996) Independent [R]

 Good Will Hunting 8 (1997) Independent [R]

 Saving Private Ryan 9 (1998) Drama [R]

 Antz 9 (1998) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 American Beauty 9 (1999) Drama [R]

 Sixth Sense, The 9 (1999) Drama [PG-13]

 Monsters, Inc. 10 Docter, P and Silverman, D (2001) Fantasy / Comedy O

 Ocean's 8 7 A eclectic collection of women hatch a plan to steal a major piece of Ross, Gary (2018) Comedy / Crime [PG-13] jewelry, finally giving the female gender a decent ensemble caper vehicle. However, the movie is marred a little by some incomprehensibly clueless ideas about using cubic zirconium as a medium for 3D printer.

 Ocean's Eight 7 A team of women plan a major jewelry heist; twists ensue. Great Ross, Gary (2018) Crime / Comedy [PG-13] characters and dialogue, with a clever plot that is marred only by a laughably impossible use of 3-D printing technology.

 Ocean's Eleven 8 A very competent remake of the classic Brat Pack movie, but using Soderbergh, Steven (2001) Crime / Comedy 2001's assortment of People magazine cover men. [PG-13]

 Ocean's Twelve 7 Soderbergh uses the success of his first remake to make an affable, Soderbergh, Steven (2004) Comedy / Crime self-referential sequel that is enjoyable mostly because of the fun [PG-13] being had.

 October Sky 10 Very touching story, based on the early life of a rocketry pioneer, (1999) Drama [PG] about a boy who would have been doomed to the mines of Appalachia except for a stubborn vision of what he wanted to do.

 Oculus 7 A decently creepy jump movie about a woman trying to prove that an Flanagan, Mike (2013) Horror [R] evil presence in their old home, and not her brother, is responsible for the deaths of their parents.

 Old Man & the Gun, The 7 Robert Redford's allegedly final movie, a fanciful retelling of the Lowery, David (2018) Drama [PG-13] "gentleman" bank robber Forrest Tucker. Enjoyable and amusing romantic comedy.

 Old School 7 A very guilty pleasure that brings back some of the hilarity and raunch (2003) Comedy [R] of "Animal House."

 Oldboy 8 The reasons behind a mysterious 15-year imprisonment of a Park, Chan-Wook (2003) Thriller [R] harmless drunk slowly emerge as he relentlessly tries to avenge himself. A study in graphically violent style that should not be watched on a full stomach — lovers of squid sushi may never again look at it with the same attitude.

 On Guard! 8 An orphan raised by fencing masters is blamed for the death of a Broca, Phillippe De (1997) Adventure [PG-13] nobleman and vindicates himself years later, with a decidedly French twist. A classic swashbuckler that can stand next to the best of the old Hollywood epics.

 Once 10 This is easily the best "music movie" I've ever seen: a complete Carney, John (2006) Musical / Drama [R] reimagining of what a "romantic" "musical" can be. It mines deeply into the emotional resonance that music can hold while casting off every possible cliché. Some serendipitous casting makes this the perfect part 2 of a double-feature with "The Commitments."

 Once Upon A Time in Mexico 7 Another competent shootem-up from Rodriguez , but it's the acting Rodriguez, Robert (2003) Thriller [R] that makes it interesting enough to recommend. The DVD includs the recipe for Puerco Pibil and a tour of Rodriquez' home studio, both of which will make you want to shoot the director to even things out.

 Ondine 8 The Irish coast creates a dreamlike setting for this tale of magical Jordan, Neil (2009) Drama / Fantasy [PG-13] realism. A fisherman, nursing the wounds that both life and he himself have inflicted, brings up a surprising catch in his net. A moody and often tense romantic tale of redemption, in more ways than you might expect.

 One, The 7 A renegade from one alternate universe steals the life-force from his Wong, James (2001) Action [PG-13] equivalents in other ones to become the One version — ooohhhhh! He BAD.

 Ong-Bak 8 For fans of purist, "look Ma, no wires" martial arts entertainment, this Pinkaew, Prachya (2003) Action [R] movie is a slam dunk. No, make that a slam you across the room and through a wall dunk. The star is an astonishing athlete on the level of a young Jackie Chan or Jet Li and the set pieces through which he runs, flips and leaps are often jaw-dropping.  Onibaba 8 Two women survive amidst war and famine through methodical  Shindô, Kaneto (1964) Horror [NR] brutality, until the sex drive of the younger upsets the balance. WAY ahead of its time, with a riveting score, tense atmosphere and hint of the supernatural.

 Only Angels Have Wings 8 An episodic tale of men running mountain-hopping air deliveries from Hawks, Howard (1939) Adventure / Drama [UR] a South American port town—and of course, their women. Hawks examines the comraderie of men in dangerous jobs while playing with the requirements of the adventure genre.

 Only Human 7 A woman brings her boyfriend home to meet her eccentric family. He Harari, D & Pelegri, T (2004) Comedy [R] has a secret, and then during the course of the evening, develops an even bigger one. A nice comedy of errors that both surprises and entertains.  Only Lovers Left Alive 8 Easily one of Jarmusch's most accessible movies, this slice of "life,"  Jarmusch, Jim (2013) Horror [R] movie, involving two lovers separated by distance and some very troublesome others, drips a dark mood of well-aged decadence.  Open Your Eyes 8 The original film that was remade into "Vanilla Sky". A playboy veers  Amenábar, Alejandro (1997) Thriller / Romance between reality and dreams after a horrible accident and (maybe) a [R] crime.

 Opposite of Sex, The 8 Funny and observant tale about a teenage girl who causes a bit of (1998) Drama / Comedy [R] trouble for her brother.

 Orange County 7 (2002) Comedy [PG-13]  Orgazmo 7 A white-shirted Mormon missionary gets sucked into the porn world in Parker, Trey (1997) Comedy [NC-17] a movie that has surprising respect for all involved, despite the deliberately inane story, characters, sets and accessories. Try to figure out why this got an NC17 instead of a R, because no one else can.

 Orgy of the Dead 1 A couple is captured and forced to watch a series of dances by Apostolof, Stephen C. (1965) Bad / Horror [NR] women who are dead...and topless. Written but not directed by Ed Wood, this is the exact opposite of what you should rent, sight unseen, to impress your new in-laws with your iconoclastic movie tastes. Trust me.

 Original Kings of Comedy 7 (2000) Comedy / Live  Orphan Black 9 A young woman on the edge of both the law and society becomes a  Coghill, K, Angelis, A & Detsky, J (2013) Thriller member of a group of women harboring an enormous secret. [TV-14] Alternately funny, exciting and terrifying, this one has it all (the less you know, the more fun you will have with the first episodes)

 Orphanage, The 9 A woman returns with her family to renovate the orphanage from Bayona, Juan Antonio (2007) Horror / Mystery which she was adopted. A beautifully constructed classic "ghost" [PG-13] story that pushes some buttons pretty damned hard, and leaves you with a conclusion that, like its producer's film "Pan's Labyrinth," you can interpret in two ways.

 Osmosis Jones 7 Chris Rock heads a cast that makes biology quite a bit more fun. Farrelly, B & Farrelly, P (2001) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Oss 117: Lost in Rio 7 France's answer to James Bond, channeled through a cluelessly Hazanavicius, Michel (2009) Comedy [R] chauvinistic Inspector Clouseau of an agent, returns in an escapade set in Rio. All of his baggage, including the psychic type, makes it there with him. This is funny stuff, even if one suspects a knowledge of French would help one with some of the more subtle jokes.

 Oss 117: Nest of Spies 8 A consistently funny spoof of a series of French spy movies and Hazanavicius, Michel (2006) Comedy [PG-13] espionage films in general, with its crosshairs frequently targeting the rampant colonialism that infested the West's relations with other countries.

 Others, The 8 Superbly creepy horror story in a classic approach. No gore, just (2001) Horror [R] weird sounds, disturbing visions and serious twists.

 Out of Sight 8 Well done crime/romance based on Elmore Leonard's work. (1998) Crime [R]

 Out of the Past 10 Past mistakes, perhaps even more than he realized, catch up with the Tourneur, Jacques (1947) Drama / Film Noir owner of a small town gas station. This is one of the most perfectly [PG] realized noir films.

 Out of Time 7 This small town Florida police thriller gets off to an excellent start as a Franklin, Carl (2003) Thriller [PG-13] not-quite-saintly police chief sees a smoothly oiled trap closing in on him, but his extended efforts to keep it from closing start to stretch believability.

 Outside Providence 8 Sentenced by his emotionally stunted father to a senior year at a Corrente, Michael (1999) Comedy / Drama [R] rule-bound prep school, the movie turns into a course about love and responsibility. One of those concepts sinks in a little deeper.

 Outsourced 8 Add this pic, about a middle-manager victim of the "train your own Jeffcoat, John (2006) Comedy / Romance replacement" school of soulless management, to the list of small, [PG-13] funny films that manage to sneak some smart lessons about global culture into what appears to be light comedy.  Overlord 8 Another brilliant example of B-movie genres being crossed with A-list  Avery, Julius (2018) Action / Horror [R] talent to produce an entertaining and very satisfying winner. Here, an expertly staged World War 2 movie slowly bleeds (ha ha) into sci-fi horror, letting us gloss over some historically inaccurate inclusiveness.

 Overnight, The 7 Newly moved to L.A., a couple looking for new friends find some Brice, Patrick (2015) Comedy / Drama [R] during an epically unpredictable pizza night that goes far beyond their — and the audiences — expectations. Ultimately satisfying and fun if you can hold on for the ride. P

 Pacific Rim 7 Targeted at an audience ranging from 10-year olds through everyone Toro, Guillermo Del (2013) Sci-fi [PG-13] who once thought Gojira was scary, this is elevated from its "giant robots vs. giant reptiles" genre by the assured talents of its director. Pure action entertainment with an icing of emotional content that is at least believable. If your bucket list includes watching a giant robot film that isn't "Iron Giant" (because you HAVE to see that one!), this is the best choice.

 Paddington 9 After a bittersweet beginning, a talking bear leaves "deepest Peru" to King, Paul (2014) Comedy / Fantasy [PG] find a home in London, but achieving acceptance will involve some hilarious misadventures. A no-brainer choice for adults and kids looking for a positve and entertaining movie night.

 Paddington 2 8 Paddington's new family life is exhanged for prison life after a King, Paul (2017) Comedy / Family [PG] scheming villain does Paddington wrong. Resolving the problem will take all of the bear's positive attitude, along with help from family and newly (rehabilitated) friends. Although the set pieces involving mishaps with everyday objects aren't quite as over-the-top, this sequel makes up for that with its emotionally resonant story arc.

 Page Eight 8 An MI5 analyst becomes privy to some embarrassing intel and has to Hare, David (2011) Drama / Thriller [UR] decide what to do with that as well as a curious neighbor. The lack of action from its older stars is more than compensated by the crackling dialog and the mounting sense of unease about the whole affair.

 Palmetto 7 (1998) Thriller [R]

 Pan's Labyrinth 9 A young girl trapped in the horrors of Franco's oppressive take-over Del Toro, Guillermo (2006) Fantasy [R] of Spain retreats into a riveting world of fantasy that offers almost as much terror but quite a bit more control to her. A truly moving and grim tale of the fantastic, it ends with the question "What do you want to believe?"

 Panic Room 8 A young woman and her daughter move into a house that contains Fincher, David (2002) Thriller [R] the latest luxury, the room of the title, only to discover that there is indeed something to panic about.

 Paranormal Activity 7 A couple, plagued by odd, poltergeist type occurrences in their Peli, Oren (2007) Horror [R] house, decide to videotape the nightly events. An unsettling and eerie foray into the "you are live" horror genre that ends with a bit of a bang.

 Parasite 9 A poor family with some very creative employment ideas entangles Ho, Bong Joon (2019) Comedy / Thriller [R] themselves with a rich family. The situation works out well for them but not for those they replaced—one of whom has left behind quite a surprise. This is a masterpiece of genre hopping, with every shift in tone following naturally from the last.

 Passengers 7 A passenger on a century-long space voyage wakes up early, trying Tyldum, Morten (2016) Sci-fi [PG-13] to solve the mystery of why that happened. Things can get desperate when your only companion is a robot bartender. A nice change from the usual aliens and blasters genre, but more about personal relationships than cosmic ideas.

 Passion Of The Christ, The 8 A technically well-made film in which Mel Gibson shows, in Gibson, Mel (2004) Drama [R] excruciating, church-lady-killing detail, exactly what right-wing reactionaries like himself did to Jesus back in the day. Note: no Jews were harmed in the making of this motion picture, because there were apparently none in it.

 Patch Adams 7 (1998) Drama / Comedy [PG-13]

 Patriot, The 8 A farmer whose country is besieged by an imperial power turns to (2000) Action [R] guerilla tactics to defeat the enemy and...uh, what country were we talking about?

 Payback 7 (1999) Crime [R]

 People vs. Larry Flynt, The 7 (1996) Drama [R]

 Perfect Blue 7 A Japanese "pop idol" (you've probably seen the innocent Lolita-doll Kon, Satoshi (1997) Thriller [R] style of the real thing) decides to make a break into films, triggering a nasty reaction from one of her true fans. This is not for the kiddies.

 Perfect Getaway, A 8 A couple honeymooning in Hawaii takes a long trail to a secluded Twohy, David (2009) Thriller [R] beach, perhaps with a couple of serial killers...and perhaps not. The less you know about this corkscrewing thrill ride, the better.  Perfect Host, The 8 A bank robber looking for a place to lay low stumbles into the  Tomnay, Nick (2010) Thriller [R] company of a man preparing for a dinner party. Nothing goes the way he expects, even after he thinks he knows what to expect. David Hyde Pierce brings some seriously unbalance fun to the proceedings.

 Perfect Murder, A 8 When a love triangle turns into a murder triangle, things can't turn out Davis, Andrew (1998) Crime [R] well.

 Perfect Storm, The 8 An exciting recreation of a deadly ocean storm. Petersen, Wolfgang (2000) Adventure [PG-13]

 Perks of Being a Wallflower, The 8 A touching and funny story of a mentally-troubled teenager trying to Chbosky, Stephen (2012) Drama [PG-13] recover from a tragedy and survive a new high school at the same time.

 Persepolis 9 The animated version of Marjane Satrapi's auto-biographical graphic Paronnaud, V & Satrapi, M (2007) Drama [PG-13] comic, detailing her experiences as an Iranian girl after the 1979 revolution. Well worth watching for both its whimsy and its horrifying human drama.

 Personal Shopper 8 A woman attending to the needs of a volatile actress is engulfed in Assayas, Olivier (2016) Drama / Horror [R] grief and perhaps supernatural events related to her brother's death. Excellent, moody, with plenty of dramatic tension.

 Personal Velocity 8 Three emotional, intense portraits of women in the midst of transition Miller, Rebecca (2002) Drama [R] that manage to throw some gritty humor into the mix (especially Kyra Sedgewick's segment).

 Peter Pan 8 An extremely well-executed version of the classic that brings a lot of Hogan, P.J. (2003) Fantasy [PG] emotional depth to the story.

 Phantom, The 7 (1996) Action [PG]

 Philomena 9 Extremely well-crafted, deeply emotional story, based on the true Frears, Stephen (2013) Drama [PG-13] account of an Irish woman's search for the child she was forced to give away by 1950's Catholic rigidity. This refuses to go in the directions you think it will go, leaving you wondering where the climax of the movie will occur. You won't see it coming.

 Phone Booth 8 A great reason not to answer a ringing public phone — especially if (2003) Thriller [R] you have a few sins to confess.

 Pianist, The 10 A haunting and wonderfully acted set of postcards from the Nazi Polanski, Roman (2002) Drama [R] occupation of Poland, recreating the experience that was tragically the most likely for those in the Jewish ghetto — a sense that survival was in the hands of chance.

 Piano Teacher, The 8 A mesmerizing character study about a virtuoso and teacher whose Haneke, Michael (2001) Drama [R] personal life teeters on destruction caused by the sexually-charged leaks from her rigidly controlled personality.

 Pickup On South Street 9 A pickpocket with three strikes against him picks a very inopportune Fuller, Samuel (1953) Crime / Film Noir [NR] pocket, setting in motion a plot that is more about its characters simply surviving one day at a time than solving a crime. Truly excellent, hard-edged noir that sets a precedent for the anti-hero Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 114 Jim's Video List P  Pickup On South Street movies of the next decade.

 Pieces Of April 8 Alternately poignant and hiliarious story of an estranged daughter Hedges, Peter (2003) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] trying to make her first Thanksgiving dinner...and the last her mother will ever have. This one avoids maudlin tear-jerking through an ensemble of strong comic performances.

 Pineapple Express 7 A buddy action movie for stoners (if such a thing is possible) in which Green, David Gordon (2008) Action [R] a pair of industrious slackers find themselves in the middle of a gang war. Uneven compared to other efforts from the Judd Apatow circle.

 Pinocchio 10 Disney's adaptation of the Carlo Collodi story is still a classic and Ferguson, N & Hee, T (1940) Fantasy [G] capable of scaring small tots considering a life of crime.

 Pirate Radio 7 An amusing, perhaps too episodic portrayal of a 60's-era radio station Curtis, Richard (2009) Comedy [R] floating beyond the reach of the British censors. The sheer quantity of deleted scenes suggests it could have been a TV series, especially with a Black Adder veteran at the helm of the movie.

 Pirates of the Caribbean: At 8 The final (?) chapter of the series starts with 45 minutes of setup in World's End serious need of ruthless editing, but eventually fulfills its promise of ripping action and some unexpected twists. Stay through the credits. Verbinski, Gore (2007) Adventure [PG-13]

 Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of 8 Twenty minutes too long but that's a minor flaw in a classic the Black Pearl swashbuckler/ghost story with several great characters, including Johnny Depp channeling the (eventual) ghost of Keith Richards. Verbinski, Gore (2003) Adventure [PG-13]

 Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead 7 The sequel is less of a complete tale (especially with the "stay tuned" Man's Chest ending) and more a collection of highly entertaining set pieces with great effects. Verbinski, Gore (2006) Adventure [PG-13]

 Pitch Black 7 On this planet, night only occurs every few decades, but the things Twohy, David (2000) Sci-fi / Horror [R] that go bump in it are some truly nasty buggers. This basic sci-fi horror story is elevated by Vin Diesel's performance and some unpredictability.

 Pitch Perfect 8 Great, fun comedy about acapella competitions among female Moore, Jason (2012) Musical / Comedy [PG13] university teams.

 Platoon 9 A new soldier discovers that the fighting that goes on in a war may Stone, Oliver (1986) Adventure [R] include fighting for one's own soul. One of the essential war films.

 Pleasantville 8 Two teenagers are magically transported to a world that is a Ross, Gary (1998) Comedy / Fantasy [PG-13] humorously unsettling combination of "Father Knows Best" and "1984," where they proceed to upend the social structure.

 Please Give 8 Well-balanced, amusing ensemble piece about the complex Holofcener, Nicole (2010) Drama / Comedy [R] emotional lives of a estate-buying couple, their teenage daughter, the lady next door whose passing will give them space to move into and the lady's two dysfunctional daughters.

 Plus One 7 Two "friends" agree to be each other's frequent wedding companion Chan, J & Rhymer, A (2019) Romance / Comedy as all their running buddies disappear from the single's scene. Great [NR] dialog and good chemistry between the leads make this an enjoyable rom-com, marred only by the idea that these two could share a bed without the guy acting on their unresolved attraction.

 Pocahontas 8 A bit closer to the actual historical reality without quite getting there, Gabriel, M & Goldberg, E (1995) Adventure [G] yet the film brings a fresh and needed dose of Native American spirituality to the story of Europeans meeting the existing inhabitants of America.

 Point Blank 8 A male nurse saves the life of a mysterious patient and find himself Cavayé, Fred (2010) Thriller [R] sucked headlong into a heavy-duty underworld operation that threatens his family. Highly believable, well constructed thriller of the "how is he going to get out of THIS" genre. Take a deep breath before pressing "Play."

 Pokémon Detective Pikachu 7 Decent writing makes this fun for both children and adults as a star of Letterman, Rob (2019) Adventure [PG] the Nintendo game gets a start as a detective.

 Pom Poko 8 An ecological tale about the tanuki (a Japanese raccoon-dog and Takahata, Isao (1994) Adventure [PG] mythical shape-shifter) and its loss of habitat from human development. Note: the PG rating is for people who understand that the Japanese have very different attitudes about anatomy.

 Popstar: Never Stop Stopping 8 The world of white hip-hop gets the "Spinal Tap" treatment in this Schaffer, A & Taccone, J (2016) Comedy [R] often hilarious "documentary" of the rise and fall of a self-centered star who—well, you know the story, however we are not let down by the massive amount of comedic talent let loose (including some great cameos).

 Port of Shadows 8 A fatalistic tale of a soldier on the run, from what we must ultimately Carné, Marcel (1938) Drama / Film Noir [NR] decide is himself, finding a chance at love amid the squalid deals of a port city. Great example of an early noirish mood piece, full of hints about unspoken secrets, past troubles and a focus on survival.

 Postman Always Rings Twice, The 9 Lana Turner and John Garfield are the plotters in this famous Garnett, Tay (1946) Crime / Film Noir [NR] adaptation of the James M. Cain novel of adultery and murder.

 Practical Magic 7 (1998) Comedy [PG-13]

 Prairie Home Companion, A 8 A fictionalized, Altmanized version of the radio show, recast as a Altman, Robert (2006) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] slightly more traditional version of itself.

 Preacher's Wife, The 7 (1996) Drama [PG] PREDATOR

 Predator 7 Da Ahnuld leads a team of abandoned mercenaries into a jungle in McTiernan, John (1989) Horror / Sci-fi [R] which an alien hunter is setting up shop. A serviceable action film for the squeamish.

 Predator 2 7 The alien hunter is stalking in Los Angeles. A nice turn by Danny Hopkins, Stephen (1990) Horror / Sci-fi [R] Glover.

 Predator, The 7 Although nothing about it will stick in your mind, this "decades later" Black, Shane (2018) Sci-fi [R] sequel is still a lean and satisfying action film with a healthydose of humor.

 Prestige, The 9 One of a small group of films that slyly merges more than one genre. Nolan, Christopher (2006) Drama [PG-13] However, that is not the biggest surprise in this film about an illusionist. It begs for a second look at the multiple levels of meaning in its beautifully constructed dialog and scenes.

 Prevenge 8 A woman's fetus may or may not be controlling her actions in this Lowe, Alice (2017) Comedy / Black [NR] darkly humorous and bloody tale of retribution. Tightly directed by the film's lead actress.

 Prey For Rock & Roll 7 The plot about an aging female rock star wannabe manages to be Steyermark, Alex (2003) Drama [R] above average even if occasionally too crisis-laden, while the overall energy and natural humor push this into entertaining semi-cult territory.

 Priceless 8 An unapologetic golddigger mistakes a Chaplinesque hotel staffer for Salvadori, Pierre (2006) Comedy [PG-13] her next mark, with unexpectedly hilarious results.

 Primary Colors 7 A realistic (in more ways than one) window into the political world, as Nichols, Mike (1998) Comedy [R] a young volunteer in a presidential campaign learns how idealism and realism cohabitate.

 Primer 7 This is a "done pretty well with no budget, written by, directed by and Carruth, Shane (2004) Sci-fi [PG-13] starring first movie" that plays interesting intellectual and emotional games with the ideas of time travel. Not all of it sinks in on the first viewing, but it leaves you with a strong sense that "that was definitely Something."

 Prince of Egypt, The 9 Disney does Moses, adding more emotional weight and a more Chapman, B and Hickman, S (1998) Adventure realistic color palette. [PG]

 Prince of Persia: the Sands of 7 Although it suffers from "gotta top the last sequence" syndrome in Time which fantasy-action flicks end with a set piece that defies even fantasy logic, this tale of an adopted prince battling family treachery Newell, Mike (2010) Fantasy [PG-13] while trying to juggle an uncooperative princess and a magical device pulls off a reasonably well-constructed narrative against some truly gorgeous backgrounds.

 Princess Bride, The 8 This is a much beloved satire of old school fantasy romances that can Reiner, Rob (1987) Fantasy / Adventure [PG] also stand on its own within the genre it spoofs. Great comic performances, including classic turns by Billy Crystal and Carol Kane.

 Princess Diaries, The 8 Classicly constructed family film about an American girl with a secret Marshall, Garry (2001) Comedy [G] identity that her single mother has declined to mention.

 Prisoners 9 The disappearance of two young girls leads to a clash between a Villeneuve, Denis (2013) Drama / Mystery [R] violence-prone, over-zealous father and a world-weary police detective. It's an absorbing and tense nailbiter that takes the time to develop empathy for both sides.

 Private Eyes, The 7 Tim Conway and Don Knotts do their perfectly timed schtick in a Elliott, Lang (1981) Comedy / Mystery [G] movie that will be enjoyed by ten-year-olds for its silliness and gothic atmosphere, but not by anyone much older.

 Private Parts 7 Howard Stern's autobiographical tale of his rise to radio infamy, told Thomas, Betty (1997) Comedy / Drama [R] in a disarmingly honest and good-natured fashion, warts and all.

 Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohion, 8 The Anderson, Jane (2005) Drama / Comedy [PG-13]

 Producers, The 9 In one of the giants of subversive musical comedies, a scheming con Brooks, Mel (1967) Comedy / Musical [PG] artist tries to score big by producing the worst script he can possibly find. If think that Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder are more than enough comedic talent for one film, wait until Dick Shawn makes his appearance.

 Producers, The 8 This remake of the original Mel Brooks movie is worth a watch. Stroman, Susan (2005) Comedy [PG-13]

 Project A 7 Jackie Chan battles pirates and corrupt officials in late-1900's China. Chan, Jackie (1983) Action [PG-13] Lots of Kung-Fu fun.

 Project A: II 7 Reasonably entertaining sequel to the original Project A. Chan, Jackie (1987) Action [PG-13]

 Project Nim 8 The story of a chimpanzee experimentally raised as part of a family. Marsh, James (2011) Documentary [PG-13] Touching and bittersweet, it also raises serious questions about the morality of "domesticating" great apes.

 Proof 8 A well-acted adaptation of a stage play about the daughter of a math Madden, John (2005) Drama [PG-13] genius who went mad who may share his genius, his madness or both. Or not.

 Proof of Life 7 (2000) Thriller [R]

 Protector, The 7 This pseudo-sequel to "Ong Bak" has Tony Jaa chasing after a stolen Pinkaew, Prachya (2005) Adventure [R] elephant and unleasing a can of Thai Whup-Ass along the way. If you came for plot, you will go hungry, but the no-wires, non-CGI action is more than fillling (and perhaps allowed the director to skip the course of sautéd baby elephant theatened in a subplot).

 Proxy 7 A sterling example of an art-house drama that takes you to Parker, Zack (2013) Mystery / Drama [R] unexpected places, as a brutal assault on a pregnant woman leaves much to be discovered. Not wholly successful, but worth a watch.

 Punch Drunk Love 9 A small-business owner with some serious sibling issues caroms his Anderson, Paul Thomas (2002) Drama / Comedy way to love. Emotionally satisfying in its own weird way. [R]  Puppet Master: the Littlest Reich 7 This would be a forgettable B-movie splatter-fest except it was written Laguna, S & Wiklund, T (2018) Horror / Comedy by S. Craig Zahler, director of the genre mashups "Bone Tomahawk" [R] and "Brawl in Cell Block 99." It does not quite match the level of horror comedy in Peter Jackson's "Dead Alive" but it sure tries. Consider yourself warned.

 Purple Noon 8 This early version of Patricia Highsmith's Tom Ripley story is Clément, René (1960) Crime [PG-13] disturbing and occasionally very funny. Well worth seeing to compare to later attempts, especially Alain Delon's performance as a more plausibly seductive Ripley.

 Pusher 9 A bit like "Pulp Fiction" but with a gritty realism instead of stylistic Refn, Nicolas Winding (1996) Crime / Thriller [R] flourishes, this is one of those films that sets up a potentially explosive situation and then just follows events as the plot lets loose.

 Pusher II, With Blood On My 9 Refn continues this gripping, documentary-like series, following the Hands first film's habitual screw-up Tonny as he leaves prison and tries to get into the good graces of his mobster father. As before, the film Refn, Nicolas Winding (2004) Crime [R] finds a sense of emotional closure in a world where no story is really finished while its protagonist still lives.

 Pusher III, I'm the Angel of Death 8 Refn finishes his slightly interlocked trilogy with mid-level drug Refn, Nicolas Winding (2005) Crime [R] distributor Milo, following him for a day and night as he juggles a birthday party for his ball-busting daughter, a drug deal gone bad and some nasty human traffickers, ending in a nonchalantly clinical demonstration of how devalued human life can be.

 Pushing Tin 7 (1999) Comedy [R]

 Pépé le Moko 8 A very watchable, seminal film noir about a charismatic hoodlum Duvivier, Julien (1937) Crime / Film Noir [PG] hiding in Morocco before Rick opened his place. Q

 Queen of the Damned 7 A lot of style and goth culture, perked up by Stuart Townsend as the Rymer, Michael (2002) Fantasy / Horror [R] Vampire Lestat, but it doesn't quite escape a "B-move" feel.

 Queen of Versailles, The 8 A very neutral portrait of a family that will nevertheless probably Greenfield, Lauren (2012) Documentary [PG] enrage you, as they build the largest house in the United States and then lose big after the 2008 recession.

 Queen, The 9 After the death of Princess Diana, the royal family's intent to uphold Frears, Stephen (2006) Drama [PG-13] centuries of tradition flies in the face of their subjects' clear need for emotional support. If the new Prime Minister could only have dealt so wisely with a cowboy from Texas as he did with the Queen of England, a few more people might be alive right now.

 Quest For Camelot 7 (1998) Fantasy / Comedy [G]

 Quest For Fire 9 The quintissential caveman movie: Without knowing how to make it Annaud, Jean-Jacques (2006) Drama [R] themselves, a prehistoric clan that has lost its all-important coals sends a trio out to find some, proving that you don't need dialog to create serious drama. If you grok the context, the alpha male's introduction to "advanced" technology is unforgettable.

 Quiet American, The 9 Greham Greene's story of a detached British journalist, a beautiful Noyce, Phillip (2002) Drama [R] Vietnamese woman and an American do-gooder at the very beginning of the long disaster.

 Quiet Earth, The 7 In the aftermath of a global science experiment gone horribly wrong, Murphy, Geoff (1985) Sci-fi [R] a scientist copes with being the last person on earth. Not an action film, this explores how one copes with both loneliness and guilt.

 Quills 8 (2000) Drama [R]

 Raging Bull 9 Scorsese's portrait of a troubled, self-destructive boxer is a classic of Scorsese, Martin (1980) Drama [R] the genre.

 Raid 2, The 8 If you liked "The Raid: Redemption" (and if you enjoy Evans, Gareth (2011) Thriller / Martial Arts [R] super-competent action movies, this is a no brainer), this takes up pretty where the last one left off, with more of everything that made the first such a hit.

 Raid, The 8 A smart, riveting actioner in which a small band of Korean police Evans, Gareth (2011) Action / Martial Arts [R] attempt to invade a mid-rise slum building that is ruled by a gang. Definitely hits the top of the tensiometer.

 Raising Victor Vargas 9 A story of teen male bravado crashing against the realities of love, Sollett, Peter (2003) Comedy / Drama [R] both painfully authentic and painfully funny. It includes a poignant subplot about how the leadership of close-knit families inexorably changes.

 Ransom 8 (1996) Thriller [R]

 Rashômon 10 Another of Kurosawa's fundamentally influential films, using a Kurosawa, Akira (1950) Mystery [PG] Japanese short story to both create the "alternate viewpoint" film as well as put Japan squarely into the art movie scene.

 Rat Race 7 (2001) Comedy [PG-13]

 Ray 10 Well-paced, and very balanced biography of Ray Charles' life and Hackford, Taylor (2004) Drama / Musical [PG-13] music.

 Read My Lips 9 This French drama carves its own unpredictable niche in the space Audiard, Jacques (2002) Thriller / Drama [R] between romances, crime capers and character studies as the pieces of a plot involving a criminal and a deaf woman click into unexpected but logical sequence.

 Reader, The 9 A young boy in 1950's Germany has an unexpected affair with an Daldry, Stephen (2008) Drama [R] older woman, only to encounter her again years later in a situation that creates a complex and troubling moral conflict within him.

 Ready Or Not 8 On her wedding night, a bride discovers that her family has some Bettinelli-Olpin, M & Gillett, (2019) Comedy / interesting traditions, about which they are dead serious. Although Horror [R] graphic enough, this is more of a comedy of terrors than an outright horror film and it accomplishes it's mission.

 Ready Player One 8 Although the book goes farther into the details for fans of early video Spielberg, Steven (2018) Action / Thriller [PG-13] games, Spielberg's take on this contest for control of a virtual reality world makes up for it by burying Easter eggs at a rate per minute far beyond human capability. Best watched in hi-def on the biggest screen you can find where you can also press "Pause."

 Real Women Have Curves 8 A slice of life comedy about how shallow perceptions, inflicted by Cardoso, Patricia (2002) Comedy / Drama oneself and others, can steer the course of one's life. [PG-13]

 Record of Lodoss War 7 Although the animation suffers in comparison to Akira, Ghost in the Sakai, Akio (1990) Fantasy [PG-13] Shell, etc. (not to mention all of Miyazaki's work), this is a respectable, large scale fantasy (13 episodes).

 Recruit, The 7 A competent suspense thriller with Colin Farrell's eagerness playing Donaldson, Roger (2003) Action [PG-13] off of Pacino's old handedness.

 Red 8 A set of retired assassins are called into "duty" again, with fatal and Schwentke, Robert (2010) Action / Comedy funny results. A great change of pace for several "serious" actors and [PG-13] a lot of fun.

 Red Riding: in the Year of Our 8 A junior reporter follows a trail of clues about a series of child Lord 1974 murders to its logical and unavoidable end, given the horrific means to which corrupt officials and the wealthy elite will stoop to thwart him. Jarrold, Julian (2009) Crime / Film Noir [R] Heavy-duty crime drama that manages to satisfy the viewer without resorting to fairy-tale endings.

 Red Riding: in the Year of Our 8 The second installment of the trilogy moves into more of a crime Lord 1980 drama mode as another part of the story is put into place, revealing that there is more to be resolved in the serial killings case. Marsh, James (2009) Crime / Film Noir [R]

 Red Riding: in the Year of Our 8 The true extent of the corrupt web that was involved in the first Lord 1983 movie's killings is finally revealed. Tucker, Anand (2009) Crime / Film Noir [R]  Red Road 9 This hyperrealistic thriller simply plunges you into the life of a British  Arnold, Andrea (2006) Thriller [NR] woman, whose job is to monitor security cameras, as she begins to take an interest in a particular person. Although the film reveals its secrets slowly, it also creates palpable tension as we begin to ask, with some justification, "Why is she doing this? Why did she do THAT?" until all is revealed in a completely credible, very humanistic way. Powerful stuff.

 Reign of Fire 7 (2002) Fantasy [PG-13]

 Reindeer Games 8 (2000) Thriller [R]

 Relic, The 8 A close but not quite faithful adaptation of the original novel, this tale Hyams, Peter (1997) Horror [R] of scientific jealously, Sourth American expeditions gone wrong and Something Really Nasty let loose in the bowels of a huge urban museum hits all the right goosebumps.

 Remember the Night 7 A DA in a hurry to get home for Christmas decides to "baby-sit" a Leisen, Mitchell (1940) Drama / Comedy [PG] female shoplifter in this comedy written by Preston Sturges.

 Remember the Titans 8 This story of an African-American coach breaking the barriers of Yakin, Boaz (2000) Drama [PG] racial integration in sports is still a fairly standard sports movie but transcends the usual cliches.

 Renaissance 8 A kidnapped scientist, a mega-corporation and a classic hard-boiled Volckman, Christian (2007) Sci-fi / Film Noir [R] lawman mix effectively in this unique and striking animation, literally an animated black and white graphic novel.

 Replacement Killers, The 7 When an indentured assassin chokes on a job for the Chinese mafia, Fuqua, Antoine (1998) Thriller [R] he has to deal with the consequences, aided by a passport forger in the wrong place at the wrong time. A competent little thriller that brings Chow Yun Fat to the U.S.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 121 R  Requiem for a Dream 9 Absolutely not for the squeamish or prudish: Here's why, whether  Aronofsky, Darren (2000) Drama / Trip To Hell you are twenty-five or sixty-five, you shouldn't do drugs, in elegantly [NR] plotted detail.

 Resolution 8 In an abandoned house near an Indian reservations, a man attempts Benson, J & Moorhead, A (2012) Thriller / Horror to force an old friend to kick his drug habit. Another example of this [NR] directing duo's ability to inject creeping Lovecraftian horror into what appears to be a straight drama.

 Respiro 8 In a poor Italian fishing town, a young wife and mother struggles with Crialese, Emanuele (2002) Drama [PG-13] her own personality: is she "free-spirited" or bi-polar? We can decide for ourselves, but ultimately this movie affirms life and love.

 Revenant, The 9 A guide for a fur trapping expedition is left behind, mortally wounded, Iñárritu, Alejandro G. (2015) Adventure / Drama after several tragic events. The movie plunges you headlong into an [R] icy colonial-era wilderness as it follows his efforts to get back to civilization and collect a debt.

 Revenge 7 Written and directed by a woman, this is a modernized take on the Fargeat, Coralie (2017) Thriller / Horror [R] simplistic "I Spit On Your Grave" fantasy plot. However, it eschews the former's exploitative sex in favor of body horror and a believable morphing of its generic party-girl victim into a Lara Croft badass, with a few extra 'r's in the grrrl power motif.

 Reversal of Fortune 8 Based on Alan Dershowitz' book about his appeal of Claus von Schroeder, Barbet (1990) Drama [R] Bülow's conviction for attempted murder, this is a fairly interesting legal procedural that addresses the ramifications of allowing even the most odious person to be railroaded, elevated by the spooky performance of Jeremy Irons.

 Reversible Errors 7 A competent but not really exciting adaptation of a Scott Turow novel. Robe, Mike (2004) Crime [NA] It's populated by legal folks with various secrets and a "confessed" murderer who falls into the cracks of their lives.

 Revolver 7 A con man aims for revenge on the mobster responsible for his Ritchie, Guy (2005) Crime [R] imprisonment, but discovers a much larger (and more psychological) game is afoot. A departure for Ritchie even as he stays within familiar territory.

 Rhyme & Punishment 7 A low-key cautionary film that explores the relationship of prison life Spirer, Peter (2011) Documentary [R] to rap and hip-hop from the perspective of musicians who spent time behind bars. It's from the "scared straight" genre, but way more subtle and probably more effective for kids fantasizing about street life.

 Ricochet 7 A rising district attorney is the target of revenge by a twisted criminal. Mulcahy, Russell (1991) Thriller [R] Except for a not believable change of heart by one character, this is very well constructed, with both Denzel Washington and John Lithgow demonstrating why they kept being picked for movies of this kind.

 Ridicule 9 A destitute French nobleman learns to compete in the French court, Leconte, Patrice (1996) Comedy / Drama [R] which is "ruled by wit." A beautiful and very funny comedy about the pre-Revolution aristocracy that begins with a shockingly hiliarious, one-sided pissing contest that paints the backdrop to the story in no uncertain terms.

 Rififi 9 This French caper movie has served as a seminal model for every Dassin, Jules (1955) Crime [G] movie or TV show about people pulling off "impossible" heists...or missions.

 Right Now 7 A crime drama with existentialist overtones and based on a true story, Jacquot, Benoît (2004) Crime / Drama [UR] this follows the impulsive decision of a young art student to shelter, then follow a criminal as he escapes from Paris and her confortable world. Very spare and cool in the way that French New Wave was.

 Ring, The 8 The Japanese original "Ringu" made just a little more sense, but this Verbinski, Gore (2002) Horror [PG-13] one will totally creep you out. Be sure to watch all the DVD extras (especially the hidden one).

 Rise of the Planet of the Apes 9 A really excellenct "beginnings" tale that explains, with both heartfelt Wyatt, Rupert (2011) Adventure [PG-13] empathy and thumping action, how the world of the original "Planet" movies began evolving. This would make a great and very satisfying second feature to follow the documentary "The Story of Nim."

 Road to El Dorado, The 7 (2000) Fantasy / Comedy [PG]

 Road to Perdition 10 A road trip with Dad would usually be a wonderful thing — if Dad Mendes, Sam (2002) Crime [R] wasn't a hit man heading to a date with vengeance. Hanks plays against his Everyman type-casting to create a very real and very dangerous tragic hero.

 Road Trip 7 (2000) Comedy [R]

 Rob the Mob 7 A well-acted adaptation of a true story that seems to short-change it's Felitta, Raymond De (2014) Drama [R] subjects in the end, but manages to be very entertaining and often funny.

 Robinson Crusoe On Mars 7 This interesting entry in the genre eschews action scenes for a Haskin, Byron (1964) Sci-fi [NR] character study of survival (as its title should imply). Although not big on special effects, those included are effective.

 Robocop 8 A sci-fi action movie with a surprising amount of humanity in its Verhoeven, Paul (1987) Sci-fi / Thriller [R] mechanized hero/victim, who is "pressed" into service by a mega-corporation selling privatized police services.

 Robot and Frank 8 Old man, new robot. What could go wrong? As it happens, this riff on Schreier, Jake (2012) Comedy / Sci-fi [PG-13] buddy and artificial intelligence movies is both a wry comedy and a somber meditation on the problems of growing old—and laced with some real surprises.

 Robots 9 Pixar scores again with a Horatio Alger story of a plucky robot, laced Wedge, C & Saldanha, C (2005) Fantasy / with a subversive, anti-corporate homage to "Metropolis". Comedy [PG]

 Rocket Science 9 A high school kid with a stuttering problem is coaxed into joing a Blitz, Jeffrey (2007) Drama [R] debate team by a another student. An excellent answer to the question "Why are teenage sports & contest movies so predictable?" The final, understated scene will stick with you longer than most films of this type.

 Rocketeer, The 8 Like "The Mask of Zorro," this is a well-done tribute to the old Johnston, Joe (1991) Adventure [PG] adventure movies, with better special effects, good action sequences and the Saturday afternoon flavor intact.

 Rocketman 9 This bio of Elton John manages to give us his triumphs and troubles Fletcher, Dexter (2019) Musical / Drama [R] while veering far off the biopic blueprint. A solid story with beautifully integrated musical numbers.

 Rockshow 8 A really enjoyable and very straightforward recording of the Paul McCartney, Paul (1980) Documentary [G] McCartney / Wings tour of 1976.

 Rodger Dodger 8 A painfully funny night as an unflinchingly observant but misanthropic Kidd, Dylan (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] ladies' man trains his underage nephew in the art of...well, not love.

 Roman De Gare 8 A famous novelist who may not be a writer, an escaped serial killer Lelouch, Claude (2007) Crime [R`] who may be a a killer and a jilted fiance who is clearly not what she pretends come together in a twisting, often funny story of a perfect crime — or is it crimes?

 Roman Holiday 9 Written by the black-listed Dalton Trumbo, this follows a day of Wyler, William (1953) Romance [NR] freedom for a princess trapped in the duties of her birth. It manages to be both a light romantic comedy and something that will stick with you long afterwards.

 Romance 7 A woman with a distant and inattentive boyfriend seeks her Breillat, Catherine (1999) Drama [NR] satisfaction in ways that are far from romantic. Explicitly non-erotic, if you can imagine that.

 Romantics Anonymous 7 Two people afllicted with an almost pathological shyness discover Améris, Jean-pierre (2010) Romance / Comedy that they need each other in more ways than one. This is almost all [PG-13] icing, but it is whipped to such a light froth you don't notice eating the whole bowl.

 Romeo Must Die 7 (2000) Thriller [R]

 Romy and Michele's High School 7 This entry into the Big High School Reunion genre is driven by the Reunion comic performances of Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow, playing airheads determined to make a major impression on old classmates. (1997) Comedy [R]

 Ronin 8 An ex-intelligence agent, the "masterless samurai" of the title, tries to Frankenheimer, John (1998) Thriller / Crime [R] find a mysterious package while fending off the foreign agents who seem to want it very badly. Great action pic with some exhilirating car chases.

 Room 9 This is a movie that takes you to a place you cannot imagine — such Abrahamson, Lenny (2015) Drama [R] as being a child whose entire world is the room in which his mother has been a sex slave for five years — then turns that horror into an uplifting story that pulls you along with a deep understanding of human nature, right through to its knowing and perfect little grace note.

 Rounders 7 (1998) Crime [R]

 Rover, The 7 A simple, but intense road story involving the retrieval of a stolen car Michôd, David (2014) Adventure [R] becomes a dark reverie about the breakdown of society (with a setting that could easily have been that of the first Mad Max film).

 Royal Tenenbaums, The 8 Drawn by a famly crisis, a motley collection of prodigies assemble Anderson, Wes (2001) Comedy / Drama [R] and try to reconnect. You may want to hold your bets for now.

 Rules of Attraction, The 7 Often hilarious but frustrating slice of spoiled college kids' life—a sort Avary, Roger (2002) Romance / Comedy [R] of "Requiem for a Dream" of college romance.

 Rum Diary, The 8 This tale based on the early adventures of Hunter S. Thompson is full Robinson, Bruce (2011) Adventure [R] of Caribbean craziness, not quite as "out there" as his later writings, but definitely packing some entertainment value.

 Rumble in the Bronx 7 Jackie Chan, visting relatives in America, saves the day while battling Tong, Stanley (1996) Action [R] street gangs. Great Chan action that should not be missed.

 Rumor Has It 7 An interesting riff on the "backstory" behind "The Graduate" has the Reiner, Rob (2005) Comedy [PG-13] grandaughter of "Mrs. Robinson" questioning her parentage. But except for some good laughs generated from that premise, this is the same basic story told a bit better by "Shopgirl."  Run, Lola, Run 8 Three throbbing, highly-kinetic alternate takes on a couple with a very Tykwer, Tom (1999) Thriller [R] serious problem having to do with missing mob money. A movie about choice, fate and the random timing of chance, designed to explode in your brain (non-lethally).

 Runaway Bride 8 (1999) Romance [PG]

 Runaway Jury 7 (2003) Crime [PG-13]

 Rundown, The 8 An indebted specialist in "retrieving" things goes after a mobster's Berg, Peter (2003) Adventure / Comedy [PG-13] pseudo-archeologist son. One-half formula, one-fourth exhilarating action and one-fourth gut-busting humor. This is worth seeing with an audience, even if it's the Saturday night gang.

 Running Scared 8 An abused child and a small-time thug trying to retrieve a piece of Kramer, Wayne (2006) Thriller [R] explosive evidence are at the center of this Grimm's Fairy Tale masquerading as a thrill ride. Too dependent on coincidence (like many fairy tales), this is nevertheless an excellent example of pushing everything to the limit, including the levels of evil on display.

 Rush Hour 7 (1998) Comedy [PG-13] S

 Safe 7 A gifted 11-year old Chinese girl is forced into the service of the New Yakin, Boaz (2012) Action [R] York Triad, then crosses paths with a suicidal ex-fighter who has been targeted by the Russian mob. There is nothing truly new for a Jason Statham movie, but the action is furiously tight , there is an unusual variety of deserving baddies to snuff and it spends enough time on the main characters to let you care for them.

 Safe 8 The residents of a gated community turn to paranoia and accusations Coben, Harlan (2018) Mystery [TV-MA] after the teenage daughter of one resident disappears. This thoroughly engrossing limited series is well worth the time.

 Safety Not Guaranteed 8 If you like your romantic comedies off-beat and very hard to predict Trevorrow, Colin (2012) Comedy / Romance [R] and don't require gallons of bodily fluids as comedy props, this is right up your alley.

 Salamander 7 Altough it opens with a heist of some very specific safety deposit Mechelen, Frank Van (2012) Mystery [TV-MA] boxes in a Belgian bank, this mystery evolves into a thriller involving a threat to the entire government of the country. Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 125

 Salmon Fishing in the Yemen 8 Political spin (represented by a hilarious Kristin Scott Thomas) hooks Hallström, Lasse (2011) Romance / Comedy a fish expert into a wildly improbable project, aided by a go-getting [PG13] corporate liaison to a Yemeni sheikh. Existing romantic entanglements get even knottier during the course of our hero's conversion from being astonished at the stupidity of the proposal to a believer.

 Salt 8 One of the masters of the genre brings us a twisting tale of a CIA Noyce, Phillip (2010) Thriller [PG-13] agent whose loyalties become suspect and whose dangerous capabilities justify any number of truly over-the-top chase and action sequences. Not a bad choice at all if you are looking for some concentrated entertainment.

 Salton Sea, The 7 Caruso, D. J. (2002) Drama / Mystery [R]

 Same River Twice, The 7 Using new and old footage, one member of a group of very Moss, Rob (2003) Documentary [UR] uninhibited river guides contrasts their current family lives with their twenty-something summers of living free on the river. Fairly interesting documentary that is content to show (a lot) rather than tell (the obvious). Not for people with hangups about the human body.

 Samouraï, Le 8 A 60's French new wave director makes an utterly straightforward Melville, Jean-pierre (1967) Thriller [PG] thriller about an assassin with a price on his head — and forever defines what "cool" is all about.

 Santa Clause 2, The 7 (2002) Comedy [G]

 Santa Clause, The 8 A nice riff on the Santa Clause myth, wherein filling the job of Santa (1994) Comedy [PG] can be quite a surprise.

 Sausage Party 8 A grocery store becomes a metaphor for religious squabbles, belief in Tiernan, G & Vernon, C (2016) Comedy [R] an afterlife and every possible form of inter-brand sex. Often hilarious, see it with an audience that does not include your grandparents or kids who might mistake it for a Disney Channel special. Seriously  Save the Green Planet 8 A genre-busting mix of goofy police procedurals, gruesome Asian  Jang, Joon-hwan (2003) Thriller / Comedy [UR] thrillers and stock elements of other genres, this nevertheless refuses to give away its game, turning into a constantly surprising and visually inventive bit of fun for those not put off by any of the above description, with a "hero" who may be more than a bit of a paranoid schizo.

 Save the Last Dance 8 (2001) Romance [PG-13]

 Saved! 9 Biting satire of evangelical religion, both authentic and less so, with Dannelly, Brian (2004) Comedy [R] some classic lines.

 Saving Grace 7 A sudden widow who is about to lose her 300-year old house turns Cole, Nigel (2000) Comedy / Drama [R] her famous skill at horticulture to counter-culture. Pleasant and often funny, with an assortment of interesting characters.

 Saving Mr. Banks 8 Walt Disney "woos" the author of "Mary Poppins" in an attempt to get Hancock, John Lee (2013) Drama [PG-13] her approval of his movie, which is based not quite as faithfully on the book as she will accept. An entertaining but fictionalized example of the issues raised when a fantasy book is more "real" than those making a movie of it realize.

 Say It Isn't So 7 Rogers, James B. (2001) Comedy [R]

 Scanner Darkly, A 8 Graphically fascinating animation of a Phillip K. Dick story about mind Linklater, Richard (2006) Sci-fi [R] control in the near future.

 Scarface 9 Originally an "X," this remake is a study of the unfinished Palma, Brian De (1983) Crime [R] roller-coaster that is the drug-industry. The DVD includes a documentary about the gangsta adulation of the movie that can be more than a little unsettling.

 Scary Movie 8 Full of dumb or sophomoric silliness, this is nevertheless a worthy Wayans, Keenen Ivory (2000) Comedy / Horror addition to the satirical sketch genre, sending up famous horror [R] movie clichés and contemporary scenes.

 Scary Movie 2 7 (2001) Comedy [R]

 Scary Movie 3 7 If you liked Airplane and Naked Gun, this will be just your cup of tea. Zucker, David (2003) Comedy [PG-13] Overall, it's consistently, if sophomorically, funny and includes a funeral scene that is simply gut-busting.

 School of Rock 9 This is an authentic tribute to the spirit of rock 'n roll that is also Linklater, Richard (2003) Comedy [PG-13] touching and funny, with all adjectives earned honestly (the actors actually play the music on screen). Besides, any movie that references both Aretha's "Respect" and the Floyd's "Great Gig in the Sky" has got MY vote.

 Schulze Gets the Blues 8 A German miner and the heir to his father's accordion-playing polka Schorr, Michael (2003) Drama [G] fame finds a sort of salvation from forced retirement when he chances upon Zydeco music on the radio. Although it dwells a bit long in building a sense of the monotony surrounding him, Schulze it is a slowly rolling boulder of a man heading straight for a touching climax to his life.  Science of Sleep, The 8 A young man, whose exuberantly whacked dream life merges with  Gondry, Michel (2006) Drama [R] reality, strikes up a circling romance with a "girl next door" who seems created specially for him. The movie brews a very special concoction of surrealistic, but coherent, magic

 Scoop 8 Although playing a supporting role, Woody Allen spins a Allen, Woody (2006) Comedy / Mystery [PG-13] well-constructed mystery about a young reporter-in-training who gets some ghostly help in solving a murder.

 Score, The 7 (2001) Crime [R]

 Scorpion King, The 7 The tale of the mythical, cursed king who appeared in "The Mummy Russell, Chuck (2002) Action [PG-13] Returns." Not bad as an adventure film, but doesn't rise above the genre.  Scotland, Pa 7 A story we've seen before (but sorry, you'll have to find out for  Morrissette, Billy (2004) Drama [R] yourself) told as a soap opera, centered on the fiefdom of a hamburger joint, and enlivened by comic performances. An inspired idea that almost works, but the need to follow the already well-known plot stifles some of its potential as a movie.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 127 S  Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World 8 An off-the-wall — and sometimes right through it — adventure  Wright, Edgar (2010) Adventure / Comedy fantasy about a teenager with romantic problems that include a series [PG-13] of jealous boyfriends warped through a street fighter video game. All in all, a seriously entertaining diversion.

 Scream 8 Although it has its share of teenagers to impale and/or decapitate, the Craven, Wes (1996) Horror / Comedy [R] high ratio of comedy pros and the intelligent script make Wes Craven's satirical take on his own genre's cliches and excesses a real classic.

 Scream 2 7 (1997) Horror / Comedy [R]

 Scream 3 7 (2000) Horror / Comedy [R]

 Scrooge 8 (1951) Fantasy

 Scrooged 7 (1988) Comedy [PG-13]

 Seabiscuit 9 Unique in how little of the true story had to be "adapted" to make an Ross, Gary (2003) Drama [PG-13] enthralling film (the 2003 TV documentary will by itself require a few Kleenexes), this story of three men and a horse, all very damaged in their own way, is a good bet.

 Searchers, The 8 Often considered a reactionary response to "High Noon," this is still Ford, John (1956) Adventure / Western [PG] an effective adventure film.

 Searching For Sugar Man 9 Two South Africans try to find out what happened to an iconic but Bendjelloul, Malik (2012) Documentary [PG-13] mysterious American musician—whose my-aim-is-true protest music became anthemic in the time when apartheid broke down—and catch the attention of a Swedish TV director to whom it is "the best story I've ever heard." You will almost surely agree.

 Secret Life of Walter Mitty, The 8 This is a much more optimistic "what if" interpretation of Thurber's Stiller, Ben (2014) Comedy / Action [PG] story ("it's Hollywood," etc.). For what it is, though, it works really well, with Stiller playing a convincingly reluctant but inevitable hero despite himself.

 Secret Lives of Dentists, The 8 Often amusing, but dead-on story of how a "stable" marriage can Rudolph, Alan (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] come close to falling apart.  Secretary 8 Two very damaged people find a mutually-affirming relationship that  Shainberg, Steven (2002) Comedy / Drama [R] works, umm...for them. The first non-creepy, light-hearted B&D comedy but still not exactly appropriate for grandmothers, right-wing moralists or knee-jerk feminists.

 Secrets & Lies 9 Try not to learn too much beforehand about this British dramedy Leigh, Mike (1996) Drama / Comedy [R] about wrong turns (the kind that if repeated, bring you back to what you thought you left behind), snarling offspring and race relations. Great dialog.

 Sentinel, The 7 A veteran Secret Service agent becomes a suspect in an Johnson, Clark (2006) Thriller [PG-13] assassination plot.

 Separation, A 9 With a bit of a thriller, of courtroom drama and of Rashomon in it, this Farhadi, Asghar (2011) Drama [PG13] emotionally involving film is really about the dynamics of human reactions that can tip the small events of family and civic life towards Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 128 Jim's Video List S  Separation, A the edge of a cliff, filtered through the norms of a modern Iranian family. We become the ultimate judge here, as we see events unfold that may or may not be retold truthfully by the participants, presented to us in many shades of gray. This one will leave you talking about it for days.  Series 7: The Contenders 8 A "reality" TV show in which the contestants try to assassinate each  Minahan, Daniel (2001) Comedy / Black [R] other. Black humor of the highest sort.

 Serious Man, A 8 A Jewish college professor watches as everything in his life turns out Coen, Joel & Ethan (2009) Comedy [R] to be the opposite of okay and spends the entire movie asking, "Why?" No matter how much we want to know the answer, by the end of the movie we really should know better than to keep asking. But we don't and the movie does not falter in its form.

 Session 9 8 A team of asbestos-removal specialists working in a decrepit state Anderson, Brad (2001) Horror [R] sanitarium get seriously haunted by the ghosts of the past.

 Seven 9 Serial and serious nastiness, but done extremely well. Not for the Fincher, David (1995) Thriller [R] squeamish.

 Seven Psychopaths 8 This oddball black comedy about a blocked writer who falls in with McDonagh, Martin (2012) Comedy [R] more than one set of criminals will take you places you really don't expect.

 Seven Samurai 9 The inspiration for a slew of films, from the obvious "Magnificent (1954) Adventure Seven" to "A Bug's Life", but with much more complex characters.

 Seven Ups, The 7 A classic crime film from this era, with a standout car chase. D'antoni, Philip (1973) Thriller [PG]

 Seven Year Itch, The 9 Wilder, Billy (1955) Comedy [NR]  Sex and Fury 6 A woman's quest for vengeance against a trio who betrayed and  Suzuki, Norifumi (1973) Crime [R] murdered her father. A "classic" Japanese sexploitation film that manages to be both camp and legitimately entertaining.  Sex and Lucía 9 A confidently romantic young woman seeks the answer to why her  Medem, Julio (2001) Drama [R] dead lover descended into a tortured melancholy as we watch scenes from...their lives? his new novel? Although it is certainly sexy enough, the multiple climaxes are emotional ones.

 Sex Education 9 Life at a British high school is hard enough, but if your mother is a Nunn, Laurie (2019) Comedy [TV-MA] psychologist with a specialty in sex, it's a nightmare. The series follows the misadventures of Otis and his friends as he manages to hold off the effects of a truly embarassing parent while developing a side gig that could not be more ironic. This is loads of fun.

 Sexy Beast 9 Ben Kingsley is the anti-Ghandi in this funny but frightening story Glazer, Jonathan (2001) Thriller / Crime [R] about a mobster unwillingly forced from retirement on the Spanish coast by some very, very unsavory characters.

 Shadow 8 A wuxia fest about the power plays between Chinese warlords, and Zhang, Yimou (2018) Action / Martial Arts [NR] arranged marriage for a woman who has other ideas and the identity of a general. This works on multiple levels, with a result comparable to "Hero" and "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 129 S  Shadow of the Vampire 7 The making of the granddaddy of vampire flicks, "Nosferatu," except  Merhige, E. Elias (2000) Horror / Comedy [R] one of the actors isn't kidding.

 Shakespeare in Love 9 An imaginative tale of romance involving Shakespeare and a young Madden, John (1998) Romance [R] woman who wants to be what just isn't proper at the time: an actress.

 Shame 8 A man with serious, nihilistic problems with sex addiction deals with McQueen, Steve (2011) Drama [NC17] the complications of an equally problematic sister. The interplay between all the characters yields a strongly acted cautionary tale.

 Shanghai Noon 7 California dude-ism meets Eastern slapstick as Owen Wilson and Dey, Tom (2000) Action [PG-13] Jackie Chan team up to spoof Westerns (and specific ones, at that). Enjoyable fun.  Shaolin Soccer 7 This would be a forgettable B-movie mess, except for the highly  Chow, Stephen (2004) Comedy [PG] enjoyable goofiness of the whole thing, and the gut satisfaction of watching people kick soccer balls through walls.

 Shape of Water, The 9 A cold war military experiment involving an amphibian humanoid gets Del Toro, Guillermo (2017) Sci-fi / Romance [R] complicated when a mute woman develops a relationship with it. Del Toro weaves one of the most atmospheric and involving fantasy romances in years. Not to be missed.

 Sharknado 1 Although not quite as terminally bad as the "classic" bad movies, this Ferrante, Anthony C. (2013) Bad / Horror is a real keeper, something to share with loudmouthed friends, pizza [TV-14] and a large amount of alcohol. Although the title says most of what you need to know, it does not fully prepare you for the cheap shortcuts and breathtaking stupidity on display.

 Shattered Glass 8 Dramatization of the discovery that a golden boy journalist for the Ray, Billy (2003) Drama [PG-13] New Republic (and other mags) was a highly entertaining fraud.

 Shawshank Redemption, The 9 Wading through one honkin' sewer pipe, but feeling good doing it. (1994) Drama / Crime [R]

 Sherlock Holmes: A Game of 8 This sequel to the well-crafted first outing with Robert Downey, Jr. Shadows depends a little too much on action over Holmesian cluefulness (and some silliness about camouflage), but still gleefully entertains as Ritchie, Guy (2011) Adventure [PG13] Holmes and Moriarty travel to a date at Reichenbach Falls.

 Sherlock, Jr. 9 One of Keaton's best shorts has him playing a movie projectionist Keaton, Buster (1924) Comedy [UR] dreaming of becoming a detective, using both his unmatched physical comedy and some very clever camera work.

 Shock Corridor 8 A reporter tries to solve a mysterious death by masquerading as a Fuller, Samuel (1963) Drama [NR] mental patient. Although events don't run out the way he expects, the title may also refer to the audience's reaction to some of the characters he encounters. A great example of Sam Fuller's tendency to push limits in the service of realism.

 Shoot 'em Up 7 As long as you accept this movie for what it is (a whole movie of all Davis, Michael (2000) Action [R] the "cool moves" worked out by 12-year-old boys during late night sleepovers), you'll have a good time watching this non-stop symphony of dry humor, preposterous shootouts and well-edited action.

 Shooter 8 A retired special ops sharpshooter is recruited to aid in preventing an Fuqua, Antoine (2007) Action [R] assassination. Things don't go as planned (by anyone) in this extremely violent on-the-run flick.

 Shopgirl 9 A bored shopgirl romances a goofy loser and an established but Tucker, Anand (2005) Drama [R] self-protective engineer with funny and bittersweet results.  Shortbus 8 A gay couple with issues visits a married couples counselor; behind  Mitchell, John Cameron (2006) Drama / Comedy her loom two framed Chinese characters meaning "Help me." All [UR] three are on the "shortbus" of personal relationships and wind up at a (real) Manhattan club that attracts the special needs people who feel rejected elsewhere. Falling shy of success in the way that plagues improvised work, this still achieves a humor-spiced connection to open-minded audiences in the first American comedy-drama to treat sex as just a filmable part of life (if you need a BIG FAT WARNING about this, consider it given). Has possibly the most interesting commentary track I've ever heard.

 Shower 8 After being informed of his father's death, a businessman returns to Zhang, Yang (1999) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] his family's bathhouse intending to settle his father's affairs, only to rediscover what he had left behind.

 Shrek 9 When the bird explodes, you know you are not in a Disney movie, but Adamson, A & Jenson, V (2001) Fantasy / the cast of this irreverent take on fairy tales delivers a sparkling Comedy [PG] comedy.

 Shrek 2 9 With an IMDB "trivia" list that runs several pages, this sequel is a Adamson, Asbury & Vernon (2004) Fantasy / delight for both kids, parents and movie fans. Comedy [PG]

 Shutter Island 7 A U.S. Marshall investigating the disappearance of a patient from a Scorsese, Martin (2010) Thriller [PG-13] high-security mental hospital discovers the case is a bit more open-and-shut than he expected. Although Scorsese's technique is to keep you on shifting ground for most of the movie, the book was more effective by letting you believe you were just fine until the ground gives way at the end.

 Sicario 8 An up-and-coming FBI agent gets involved in a Mexican operation Villeneuve, Denis (2015) Thriller [R] where some participants may have ulterior motives, leading to a riveting sortie into a drug lord's territory.

 Side Effects 8 The black hole into which a white-collar criminal's young wife is Soderbergh, Steven (2013) Thriller [R] sinking starts to suck in her well-intentioned shrink — but nothing is quite what it seems in this well-plotted example of slowly tightening tension.  Sideways 9 Two college buddies take off on a wine-country jaunt just before one  Payne, Alexander (2004) Comedy [R] gets married, and things don't go the way either expects. The audience was pounding the seats in laughter.

 Signal, The 8 A mysterious transmission that permeates all electronic devices Bruckner, Bush & Gentry (2008) Horror [R] wreaks havoc among the citizenry, in three stylistically differing episodes by each director. Although #3 is the weakest, all are entertaining in their own way.

 Signs 8 A defrocked priest turned farmer finds possible signs of an alien Shyamalan, M. Night (2002) Horror [PG-13] invasion in his fields.

 Silver City 8 A pointed satire of politicians and their links to money, that will remind Sayles, John (2004) Comedy / Drama [R] you of a certain clueless doofus from Texas.

 Silver Linings Playbook 8 A bi-polar man institutionalized briefly after using a bit of Russell, David O. (2012) Comedy [R] ultra-violence against his wife's lover, tries to cope with the aftermath with little success until he meets a woman with her own issues. A screwball comedy with not one but two "crazy" people.

 Simone 7 A frustrated director finds his ideal leading lady and becomes trapped Niccol, Andrew (2002) Comedy [PG-13] by her (his) success. Well-written study of how we sometimes worship pixels.

 Simple Favor, A 8 A super-Mom and cooking/craft vlogger is befriended by a mysterious Feig, Paul (2018) Mystery / Comedy [R] jet-setter who subsequently disappears, leaving behind a husband and child and an unpredictable, twisting mystery for our domestic sleuth to solve. Marred somewhat by a contrived resolution, yet hugely entertaining thanks to the two lead actresses and the writing.

 Simple Plan, A 8 The discovery of a large sum of what appears to be "free" money Raimi, Sam (1998) Thriller [R] gives rise to the plan of the title. All that is needed is to observe the KISS principle...if you can.

 Simple Twist of Fate, A 7 Steve Martin stars as a emotionally stunted recluse who adopts an Mackinnon, Gillies (1994) Drama / Comedy abandoned baby. Although it's not a perfect movie, it does a fair job [PG-13] of fleshing out all the characters.

 Sin City 9 Not just film noir, but a kind of soul-sucking ultra-noir that you might Rodriguez, Robert (2005) Thriller / Film Noir [R] not want to watch again if it weren't for the fabulous visuals—at least the ones in a color other than yellow.

 Sing Street 9 A movie that perfectly captures the interplay of youthful infatuation, Carney, John (2016) Drama / Musical [PG-13] family problems and contemporary music (in this case, for the 1980s) that leads teenagers to make heartfelt music.  Singing Detective, The 7 A very damaged boy finds a way out of the almost psycho-somatic  Gordon, Keith (2003) Drama / Comedy [R] trap in which he has imprisoned himself. It may take two viewings to get past this movie's distracting structure and understand how it all fits into the tragicomedic story.

 Single Man, A 9 Set in 1962, this day in the life of a man who has lost his long-time Ford, Tom (2009) Drama [R] love evokes both the moods of the period and the inner turmoil of someone who has lost his reason for living.

 Sinister 7 Although it is ultimately somewhat predictable, this horror tale about a Derrickson, Scott (2012) Horror [R] true crime writer who gets way too close to his subject matter gets points for its concept.

 Sisters 9 Two women decide to have a party just before their childhood home Moore, Jason (2015) Comedy [R] is sold. All their now "mature" high school friends attend, along with every unresolved issue they ever had. It devolves into the wildly entertaining fun you might expect from a vehicle written for its two stars.  Sita Sings the Blues 9 Nina Paley's trans-national romantic breakup inspires a spectacular,  Paley, Nina (2008) Drama / Comedy [NR] animated re-telling of the Ramayan, the story of Sita and her less-than-dependable lover Rama, narrated with understated humor by Indian shadow puppets and laced with 1920's jazz songs.

 Six Days, Seven Nights 7 (1998) Comedy / Romance [PG-13]

 Skeleton Twins, The 9 Is it true that when completely goofy comedians control themselves in Johnson, Craig (2014) Drama / Comedy [R] service of a drama, magic happens? Estranged fraternal twins begin to repair the decade-old damage of events from their teens, in a dual portrait that is by turns very funny and deeply affecting, filled with great moments. The Johnson/Wiig/Hader commentary track is a gem.

 Sky Captain and the World of 8 Although the characters are somewhat more substantial than those in Tomorrow the 40's serials that inspired these, great acting is not the reason to see this gloriously realized version of early Art Deco / Modernist Conran, Kerry (2004) Sci-fi / Adventure [PG] Sci-Fi. Fritz Lang can rest in peace.

 Sky Crawlers, The 8 A psychological mystery piece set in a world where genetically Oshii, Mamoru (2008) Fantasy [PG-13] created children engage in dogfights to the death for the entertainment of the world. Moody anime exposition alternates with sensational action scenes.

 Sky High 8 A winning comedy about a high school for superheroes that manages Mitchell, Mike (2005) Comedy [PG] to combine high school "issues" and superpowers to produce a good quantity of laughs.

 Sleepwalk With Me 8 A funny and memorable memoir from a man with a seriously scary Birbiglia, M & Barrish, S (2012) Documentary sleep disorder. [PG-13]

 Sleepy Hollow 7 (1999) Action [R]

 Sliding Doors 8 The timing of a closing elevator door makes all the difference Howitt, Peter (1998) Romance / Fantasy [PG-13] between two tellings of the same romantic tale.

 Slither 8 Highly entertaining horror flick laced with wicked humor has a Gunn, James (2006) Horror [R] multi-faceted space parasite wreaking havoc in a small town.

 Slumdog Millionaire 9 With equal parts underdog romance, crime story and third world Boyle, Danny (2008) Drama / Romance [R] horror movie, Boyles gritty tale of a determined "untouchable" finding salvation in a game show is also full of humor and joy.

 Slums Of Beverly Hills 7 A semi-autobiographical slice-of-nomadic-life within 90210 with good Jenkins, Tamara (1998) Comedy [R] comic performances from Alan Arkin as a father who lost his self-respect but not his kids and Natasha Lyonne as a reluctantly budding daughter.

 Small Soldiers 7 (1998) Fantasy [PG-13]

 Small Time Crooks 7 Woody Allen plays it a little less Allenesque as a minor criminal mind. Allen, Woody (2000) Comedy [PG] Consistently amusing, but not quite a laugh fest.

 Smilla's Sense of Snow 8 A moody and unpredictable film (both in plot and main character) August, Bille (1997) Crime / Mystery [R] about the accidental death of a young boy and the efforts of a transplanted Inuit woman to follow her sense of something being covered over.

 Smokin' Aces 8 Several teams set out to assassinate or capture a Las Vegas Carnahan, Joe (2007) Thriller [R] illusionist mobster wannabe who has turned snitch. A bit more serious than it seems to have been marketed with some nice twists.

 Snake Eyes 7 Mildly entertaining thriller about a Vegas cop trying to get to the De Palma, Brian (1998) Thriller [R] bottom of murder political intrigue.

 Snake of June, A 7 This erotic Japanese thriller about a somewhat mousy wife who is Tsukamoto, Shinya (2002) Thriller [R] awakened by a mysterious stranger mixes stylishtic cues from American directors with the dreamlike qualities of many Japanese films.  Snatch 8 Hilarious British gangster film. See it on DVD with the subtitles  Ritchie, Guy (2000) Thriller / Comedy [R] turned on.

 Snow Dogs 7 (2002) Comedy [PG]

 Snow Falling on Cedars 9 The murder of a fisherman opens old wounds for a newspaperman in Hicks, Scott (1999) Drama / Mystery [PG-13] a heavily atmospheric study of race relations in the World War II years.

 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 9 Disney's first feature film is a classic fairy tale. Cottrell, W & Hand, D (1937) Fantasy [G]

 Snowpiercer 9 Bong's first English-language film is a winner. Based on a French Ho, Bong Joon (2013) Sci-fi [R] comic, it uses a train as a methophor and excuse for a hyper-violent story about class struggle, laced with sardonic humor and visuals that pay homage to Terry Gilliam.

 So I Married an Axe Murderer 7 Nicely done comedy, with a bit of a mystery twist, about a pleasnt Schlamme, Thomas (1993) Comedy [PG-13] young man whose new bride may have a hidden, fatal flaw.

 Social Network, The 9 A film that captures both the ego-driven intensity that created it and Fincher, David (2010) Drama [PG-13] the essence of the viral change in the social fabric caused by Facebook. Should be required viewing in sociology classes from now on.

 Solaris 7 (2002) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Solomon Kane 7 Robert E. Howard's lesser known Puritan avenger comes to the Bassett, Michael J. (2009) Fantasy [R] screen in a moodily entertaining but not groundbreaking action-fantasy.

 Something Wild 8 A chance encounter between a very straight businessman and a Demme, Jonathan (1986) Comedy / Action [R] mysterious, flighty woman launches an unpredictable hybrid of romance (maybe), road movie (to hell?) and thriller, a consummate example of a "set up the situation and see where it goes" type of movie.

 Something's Gotta Give 8 The frustrations and delights of older romance with two strong Meyers, Nancy (2004) Romance / Comedy [R] performances by Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton.

 Somewhat Gentle Man, A 8 The consistently funny situations of a newly-released convict as both Moland, Hans Petter (2010) Crime / Comedy old and new associations threaten to derail his desire for a peaceful [UR] life.  Sonatine 8 A cold-blooded gangster, who realizes his time is at hand, delays the  Kitano, Takeshi (1993) Drama / Crime [R] inevitable in a playful idyll.  Songs From The Second Floor 8 Bona-fide Swedish Art Movie filled with unforgettable visual  Andersson, Roy (2002) Drama / Comedy [NR] metaphors. Several characters struggle with the breakdown of reason and the death of spirituality without realizing how they are contributing

 Sorceror's Apprentice, The 7 Solid entry into the master/grasshopper genre, but with a nicely Turteltaub, Jon (2010) Fantasy / Comedy [PG] subversive streak of sometimes wicked humor and fumbling teenage romance.

 Sound of Music, The 9 Wise, Robert (1965) Drama / Musical [G]

 Source Code 7 A helicopter pilot participates in an experimental method of looking for Jones, Duncan (2011) Thriller [PG-13] clues in the last memories of the dead. Although it suffers from a final dose of magical thinking that should not be examined too seriously, as a thriller in a similar subclass as "Run, Lola, Run," it does deliver the goods.

 South Park: Bigger, Longer and 7 The always cute and cuddly children of South Park are horribly Uncut corrupted by an adult-oriented movie. Order must be instilled in civil society! (1999) Comedy [R]

 Space Cowboys 7 (2000) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Space Jam 8 How can a basketball roster with Michael Jordan, Bill Murray, Bugs Pytka, Joe (1996) Fantasy / Comedy [PG] Bunny and the Tasmanian Devil possibly go wrong? Already ahead of the game with its goofy comedy premise, the film is elevated by its direct references to Jordan's personal odyssey.

 Spanglish 8 A Mexican woman and her daughter become entangled with a Brooks, James L. (2004) Drama / Comedy disfunctional WASP family, with Adam Sandler playing straight man [PG-13] to Téa Leoni as his gloriously self-absorbed, manic-depressive wife.

 Spanish Fly 7 A repressed graduate with a book contract researches "machismo" in Kastner, Daphna (1998) Comedy [R] Spain. Not perfect, but it leads to a funny and very inappropriate climax.  Spanish Prisoner, The 8 Very twisty crime story with Steve Martin in a fairly straight role and  Mamet, David (1997) Crime / Film Noir [PG] great dialog by David Mamet.

 Spartan 8 A sterling example of a film that does not talk down to the audience. Mamet, David (2004) Crime / Adventure [R] A professional soldier discovers (as we follow along) a web of intrigue surrounding a girl's disappearance.  Spawn 8 The DVD's of the HBO series are a great example of moody, stylish  McFarlane, Todd (1997) Fantasy [PG-13] animation and a "hell" of a story line. Unfortunately, HBO did not let McFarlane finish his overall story.  Spawn 7 The live-action version of Todd McFarlane's comic comes close to Dippé, Mark A. Z. (1997) Fantasy / Action doing it justice, but it veers close to the wrong edge at times and the [PG-13] animated version really does a better job of creating the right mood.

 Speed 7 (1994) Action [R]

 Sphere 7 (1998) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron 7 Pleasant kids' story that manages to maintain suspense about the Asbury, Kelly and Cook, Lorna (2002) Adventure main character's final fate. [G]

 Splice 7 Amelie meets The Thing in this mash-up of DNA research, Natali, Vincenzo (2009) Sci-fi [R] emotionally damaged researchers and special effects homages to David Cronenberg. Completely redefines the term bi/curious while leaving the impression that just a bit too much character development was left on the disk drive.

 Split 8 A riveting performance by James McAvoy nails the creepy horror of Shyamalan, M. Night (2016) Horror [PG-13] this serial murder / missing kids thriller, with Anya Taylor-Joy providing the human connection.

 Spring 8 A young man feeling a personal crisis winds up in Italy, romancing a Benson, J & Moorhead, A (2014) Romance / mysterious woman who turns out to be so much more than we Sci-fi [NR] expect. This is one of those special film hybrids that should be watched when you know as little as possible about them. NR, but just a bit beyond a PG-13.  Spring Breakers 9 Four college girls on a spring break trip to Florida they thought they  Korine, Harmony (2012) Crime / Film Noir [R] could not afford, a trip that gradually reveals the true character of each and their limits—if applicable. This film desconstructs and then reassembles the pieces of road, beach and urban crime pictures to simply follow the characters and as a result, creates a surprising and very tense minor masterpiece of exploitation, whose true protagonists are not identified until the end.

 Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter . . . 8 Meditative, gorgeous and sometimes shocking, this tale of events And Spring around a small temple in the middle of a Chinese lake leaves a haunting memory. Ki-duk, Kim (2004) Drama [R]

 Spun 7 A short descent into the lives of meth addicts, but a bit too hip and Åkerlund, Jonas (2002) Drama [NR] sexy (except for those teeth). See "Requiem for a Dream" instead.

 Spy 8 A fish out of water comedy that manages to function as an actual spy Feig, Paul (2015) Comedy / Thriller [R] thriller, this makes excellent use of its talented comic (and heretofore non-comic) actors. See it with friends.

 Spy Game 8 (2001) Thriller [R]

 Spy Kids 9 Surprisingly inventive James Bond story for kids. It hooks the adults Rodriguez, Robert (2000) Adventure / Sci-fi [PG] too and delivers a welcome moral in the process.

 Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost 8 This sequel is a little harder to believe (not that you're expected to), Dreams but keeps the invention and action coming. Rodriguez, Robert (2002) Adventure [PG]

 Spy Who Came in From the Cold, 9 Cold-blooded games of double- and triple-crosses play out in the The chilly world of of 60's espionage, as Richard Burton's weary spy plays one last game, not realizing what a good idea retirement would have Ritt, Martin (1965) Thriller [NR] been.

 Stan & Ollie 9 This dramtization of the later years of Laurel and Hardy focuses on Baird, Jon S. (2018) Drama / Comedy [PG] both their genius and the bond that formed between two men with very different personalities and very protective wives.

 Star Trek 9 With its uncanny "young" versions of major characters, ripping Abrams, J. J. (2009) Sci-fi [PG-13] adventure scenes and sprinkling of humor, this origins tale proves there is still plenty of promise in the Trek juggernaut.

 Star Trek Into Darkness 8 After admitting to Jon Stewart that he did not like the original Star Abrams, J. J. (2013) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] Trek series when he was a kid, J. J. Abrams proves it by creating this spectacular action film that has little to do with the high concepts in which the original series exulted. Your eyes may widen, but not your mind.

 Star Trek: First Contact 7 (1996) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Star Trek: Insurrection 7 (1998) Sci-fi [PG]

 Star Trek: Nemesis 7 (2002) Sci-fi [PG-13] STAR WARS

 Star Wars, Episode IV: A New 9 When it was first released, it was a giant wake-up call to the Hope science-fiction movie industry: This is how they used to make 'em, folks, except now the special effects can keep up with the rest of the Lucas, George (1977) Sci-fi [PG] film.

 Star Wars, Episode V: The Empire 9 Usually considered to be the best of the original three (let's face it, Strikes Back the best of all of them) with great visuals and a sense of depth that gets squandered in the rest of the series. Kershner, Irvin (1980) Sci-fi [PG]

 Star Wars, Episode VI: Return of 7 The original trilogy ends with the usual spectacular visuals but feels the Jedi like a retread of the original. Marquand, Richard (1983) Sci-fi [PG]

 Star Wars, Episode I: The 7 Overall, probably the best of the three prequels... damn, I forgot Phantom Menace about Jar-Jar Binks — no, about even with the other two. The presence of a fatally annoying character distracts from the general Lucas, George (1999) Action [PG] (and surprising) lifelessness of the other characters, while neither prevents us from enjoying the rockin' visuals.

 Star Wars, Episode II: Attack of 7 Lucas is the master of creating believable future worlds, and this the Clones segment does not disappoint. Although mercifully Jar-Jar-less, we can now see that Jar Jar was the most interesting character in the Lucas, George (2002) Sci-fi [PG] prequels. Help!

 Star Wars, Episode III: Revenge of 7 The "death" of Anakin and birth of Darth Vader, told with eye-popping the Sith special effects, R-rated violence and only the sketchiest of emotional plausibility — Lucas gives us the ingredients, but it's all been tossed Lucas, George (2005) Sci-fi [PG-13] into a hash, not a full dinner. I suppose that in his defense, this story should only have been told as a novel by Dostoyevsky (or perhaps a TV series by Joss Whedon).

 Star Wars, Episode VII: The Force 8 New characters give more dimension to the series, the action, well, Awakens it's J. J. Abrams after all. Good to see the old gang a part of it—but who thought a bitchy butt-hurt whiner was going to be the new Darth Abrams, J. J. (2015) Sci-fi [PG-13] Vader? It made a certain Big Demise scene seem all the more wasted.

 Rogue One: A Star Wars Story 9 Probably the best gift to fans since the original "A New Hope," with Edwards, Gareth (2016) Sci-fi [PG-13] blazing action, a hell of a cameo from Darth Vader and no stupid characters. None!

 Star Wars, Episode VIII: The Last 8 Johnson continues to develop the theme of Jedi failure and hope for Jedi a rebirth—albeit in a possible new form. Includes an odd side trip for Finn and Rose to a casino town, one unexpected twist—and no death Johnson, Rian (2017) Sci-fi [PG-13] star! Kylo Ren gets some much needed character development.

 Solo: A Star Wars Story 8 The early story of Han Solo, Chewbacca and the Milennium Falcon. Howard, Ron (2018) Sci-fi [PG-13] Although it doesn't reach the level of "Rogue One," it is a credible addition to the saga. S

 Stargate 7 The movie that started the franchise. An interesting extrapolation on Emmerich, Roland (1994) Sci-fi [PG-13] the ancient astronauts myth mashed up with Egyptian archeology..

 Starlet 7 The unexpected contents of a rummage sale purchase leads a young Baker, Sean (2012) Drama [NR] actress into a complex relationship with an elderly women. The details of each of their lives slowly unfold until we find that their relationship may be based on a need that is stronger than either realize. Note: the "NR" rating is there for a reason.

 Starry Eyes 7 This relatively straightforward down-the-sinkhole slasher movie is Kolsch, K & Widmyer, D (2014) Horror [R] elevated by its "Eyes Wide Shut" twist, the acting of its lead and some merciless satire that probably should have been turned up a notch.

 Starship Troopers 7 Verhoeven steers a subtly subversive tack in bringing the more Verhoeven, Paul (1997) Sci-fi [R] militant Heinlein story to the screen, making it more of a satire for audiences who have seen politics triumph over necessiry in many recent wars.

 Starskey & Hutch 7 A consistently amusing but not truly funny homage to an old TV Phillips, Todd (2004) Comedy / Action [PG-13] show.

 Starter For Ten 8 A student with a knack for remembering things struggles with love, Vaughan, Tom (2007) Comedy / Drama [PG-13] family and being true in the midst of a college game show.  State and Main 8 A light but amusing movie about making movies, possibly best  Mamet, David (2000) Comedy [R] appreciated by those familiar with the process.

 State Within, The 9 A British diplomat works to uncover the answers to who is Various (2006) Thriller [TV-14] responsible for a terrorist act in this very intelligently-written espionage mini-series that only grudgingly reveals its secrets. Excellent stuff.

 Station Agent, The 9 A simple, effective story of emotional healing told with much humor. McCarthy, Tom (2003) Comedy / Drama [R] Not much really happens on the surface, but by the end you can feel the seismic shifts that have occurred from the dance of very different personalities.

 Stealing Beauty 7 A teenager recovering from the suicide of her mother visits an artists Bertolucci, Bernardo (1996) Drama [R] enclave in the Italian hills, wherein may reside her true father. Lots of spectacular scenery backing up a pleasant but less-than riveting story.

 Steamboy 8 The director of Akira returns with an alternate history of the Victorian Ôtomo, Katsuhiro (2004) Fantasy [PG-13] age that is an entertaining blend of action and imaginative visuals.

 Sticky Fingers of Time, The 7 A science fiction movie without special effects typically means a lot of Brougher, Hilary (1997) Sci-fi [UR] dialog, but the latter is fairly entertaining in this looping indy time travel movie about a noir writer who finds herself mysteriously flung forward in time. Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 138 Jim's Video List

 Still Bill 8 The distinctive vocalist Bill Withers did not wither at all. Although he Baker, D & Vlack, A (2009) Documentary [NR] dropped from the spotlight, it was a conscious choice to live a normal life with an actual (non-reality-show) family. This documentary brings him back into the public eye.

 Stir of Echoes 7 Although the end isn't as strong as it could be, this small ghost story / Koepp, David (1999) Thriller [R] pschological thriller holds its own against the some of the more well-known examples of the genre.  Stone Reader 8 A book-lover finally reads a novel he put away years before and it  Moskowitz, Mark (2002) Documentary [PG-13] triggers a quest to find the author, who disappeared. Along the way, we revisit all the reasons that fuel the passions of those who love to read.

 Stop Making Sense 9 Probably the best concert film ever made because it simply lets you Demme, Jonathan (1984) Documentary [NR] see and hear the songs. It's the Talking Heads, so hook up the big speakers and forget about sitting still.

 Straight Into Darkness 8 Two American deserters wander around through a series of Burr, Jeff (2005) Action / Horror [R] nightmarish encounters as they try to avoid both German and American soldiers. A strange and affecting story that is not your usual war movie.

 Straight Outta Compton 8 Although it has a whiff of typical biopic to it, this retelling of the Gray, F. Gary (2015) Drama [R] beginnings of the rap/hip-hop movement works well. Told through the eyes of the seminial group NWA, it fills many gaps in your average white boy's knowlege, while giving you a much better understanding of why their raps were so aggressively anti-police.  Straight Story, The 9 David Lynch makes a heartfelt, G-rated movie! A man wants to visit  Lynch, David (1999) Drama / Comedy [G] his dying brother, and uses a riding mower to get there. Based on a true story.

 Stranger Than Fiction 7 Will Farrell does some actual acting in this oddball comedy about a Forster, Marc (2006) Comedy / Fantasy [PG-13] seriously-boring worker bee who finds his lack of control over his life is getting ...out of control.

 Street of Shame 8 Mizoguchi alternates among the workers' storied at a brothel in Mizoguchi, Kenji (1956) Drama [NR] post-WW2 Japan, during a time when attempts were being made to make prostitution illegal. He manages to balance the pros and cons of the life in the context of Japanese culture without either moralizing or glamorizing.

 Stuart Little 9 A highly effective mix of live action and CGI animation that brings the Minkoff, Rob (1999) Adventure / Comedy [PG] title character to life in a house that is as much a fantasy as anything else in the film.

 Stuart Little 2 8 One of the few sequels that comes close to the fun and charm of the Minkoff, Rob (2002) Adventure / Comedy [PG] original.  Stunt Man, The 8 A man with a need to hide stumbles into a job as a stunt man for a  Rush, Richard (1980) Action / Drama [R] director, played by Peter O'Toole, who may not be trustable. A great little film that keeps you guessing while you enjoy the behind-the-scenes view of movie stunts.

 Submarine 8 A coming of age / romance about its quirky, interesting protagonist's Ayoade, Richard (2010) Drama / Comedy [R] first love, his even quirkier and interesting parent's rocky marriage and an even quirkier but not so interesting self-help guru.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 139 S  Sukiyaki Western Django 7 Miike, known for his white-knuckle thriller "Audition," explores the  Miike, Takashi (2007) Action [R] spaghetti Western genre, resulting in a stew of high-drama and exuberant excess that includes Quentin Tarentino in one of the roles. Will be high on the cult lists

 Sullivan's Travels 10 A successful director of light comedies develops an unquenchable Sturges, Preston (1941) Comedy / Drama [G] desire to make a "serious" film, with results that follow neither his nor the audience's expectations. One of the films that was not just truly ahead of its time but also a bit subversive, told with knee-slapping humor and classic Sturges dialog.

 Sum of All Fears, The 7 (2002) Thriller [PG-13]

 Sunset Boulevard 10 This is a great noir comedy that you will appreciate even more if you Wilder, Billy (1950) Drama / Film Noir [UR] can learn some of the actors' background stories.

 Sunshine Cleaning 7 A mother with a need for cash discovers the interesting world of Jeffs, Christine (2008) Drama / Comedy [R] post-mortem cleanup services, with help from her less-than-mature sister. An interesting concept brought off with solid acting, but manages to be slightly predictable at the payoff.

 Super 8 8 Kids filming their own detective/zombie movie get involved in some Abrams, J.J. (2011) Sci-fi [PG-13] heavy government secrets. Although hardly groundbreaking, it's an enjoyable riff on the kind of movies Steven Spielberg once made (and now produces) and works even better if you have been lucky enough not to have seen any previews.  Super Troopers 7 The adventures of a squad of highly mischievous state troopers, in  Chandrasekhar, Jay (2001) Comedy [R] which the quality of the writing and the wickedness of some of the more deadpan humor pushes it well past the mediocity to which most sophomoric movies of this sort aspire. SUPERMAN

 Superman 8 This movie, with its decently composed, classic story and its acting Donner, Richard (1978) Action [PG] roster, reformed the entire superhero movie genre by taking it seriously enough to honor the memories of everyone who spent their childhood reading comics. A great combination of heart, action and believable special effects.

 Superman II 7 Superman romances Lois Lane as three super-bads from Krypton get Lester, Richard (1980) Action [PG] loosed upon the Earth. A decent follow-up to the groundbreaking first movie.

 Superman Returns 9 The Man O'Steel comes back from an extended cosmic safari to find Singer, Bryan (2006) Fantasy [PG-13] that Earth has moved on. A satisfying sequel to the first two Christopher Reeve movies that ignores the inconvenient existence of III and IV, which succumbed to the "let's make it camp" disease of the later revival #1 Batman films.

 Man of Steel 8 This reboot of the series has an iconic performance by Henry Cavill, Snyder, Zack (2013) Fantasy / Action [PG-13] some decent criminals and good support from Amy Adams, Diane Lane and Kevin Costner before New York is trashed AGAIN by the required super-collosal ending.

 Support the Girls 7 A female manager at a Hooters-style sports bar tries to keep her Bujalski, Andrew (2019) Drama [R] employees together and well-protected despite the challenges of the job. A knowing film about the challenges of mininum wage jobs, but feels a little like it could be the pilot for a TV show.

 Sushi Girl 7 Although this garnered criticism as another homage to Tarantino, it Saxton, Kern (2012) Thriller [R] really feels more like a brutal David Mamet play, with flashbacks used to flesh out the plot that leads to five angry armed robbers hashing out some missing diamonds over a decadent display of sushi. Add a dash of Rashomon in the end, and you've got a decently twisted, but overly violent thriller that leads to a brief, breath-taking tableau worthy of a canvas.

 Suspect Zero 9 Excellent mystery suspense film about a serial killer and the FBI Merhige, E. Elias (2004) Thriller [R] agents trying to hunt him down that touches on the price one pays for being too good at understanding violent criminals.

 Sweet Home Alabama 8 A nicely entertaining example of a chick flick that doubles as a date Tennant, Andy (2002) Comedy / Romance movie. [PG-13]

 Sweet Smell of Success 9 Both in terms of its dialog and its refusal to pull punches, this is one MacKendrick, Alexander (1957) Drama / Film of the classic stories about the entertainment industry and its Noir [NR] schizophrenic relationship with the press.  Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss 7 The classic 70's "put it to the Man" movie, a truly seminal  Song independent film. It's not a "great" film, but it's full of a kind of psychedlic black cinema verité (not to mention some eye-opening Peebles, Melvin Van (2007) Drama [R] sex) that had not been seen before. It surprised everyone (except perhaps Van Peebles and his emergency backer, Bill Cosby) with its success.

 Swell Season, The 8 Like the fictional movie "Once" that starred the couple on which this August-Perna, Dapkins & Mirabe (2011) doc is focused, this is a understated creation that oozes authenticity Documentary [R] as it follows the relationship that blossomed on tour after the movie stormed through arthouse and music circles.  Swimming Pool 8 An erotic, dramatically engrossing exploration of a) two lost souls  Ozon, François (2000) Drama [NR] filling each other's psychic holes, b) the creative process by which authors imagine their stories and perhaps, their characters, or c) both of the above. Worth seeing with friends just to argue over what the movie is actually showing you, especially at its end.

 Swingers 8 An "expert" on the lounge scene trains a friend in the rules of the Liman, Doug (1996) Comedy [R] game in this dead-on examination of the social circles of young males.

 Swordfish 7 (2001) Crime [R]

 Sympathy For Mr. Vengeance 8 Another exercise in stylized violence by Park, with a story that circles Park, Chan-Wook (2002) Thriller [R] the characters as much as anything. A good choice if you need something to discuss at dinner afterwards, graphically unsettling, although nothing like "Oldboy."  Synecdoche, New York 8 A failing playwright uses an unexpected windfall to mount an  Kaufman, Charlie (2008) Drama [R] autobiographical play within a play...within a play...within a play. Another entertaining mind-bender from Charlie Kaufman, doing his own directing this time. Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 141

 Syriana 9 A disturbingly authentic cross-section of stories about Middle Eastern Gaghan, Stephen (2005) Drama [R] oil, terrorism and amoral corporate greed. T  Tabloid 9 Doc auteur Errol Morris examines two wildly different accounts of  Morris, Errol (2010) Documentary [R] either 1) a young woman's attempt to rescue the love of her life from a cult or 2) the kidnap and rape of a young male Mormon missionary. As documentaries go, it overflows with provocative themes that range from psychotic delusions, the dynamics of cults, the hijacking of a story by both the news media and/or the participants, hidden subcultures and much more, including cloning. Don't miss it.

 Tadpole 7 A prep school kid fancies himself in love with this stepmother, but Winick, Gary (2000) Comedy [PG-13] events do not play out as he expects. An entertaining romantic comedy with some unexpected twists.

 Tag 8 Although it is "based on" a Wall Street Journal story about a group of Tomsic, Jeff (2018) Comedy [R] ten friends who have played the game for years, this successfully exaggerates the idea into an entertaining romp that doesn't lose the subtext of why grown men might play a children's game.

 Tailor of Panama, The 8 Complex South American intrigue with Pierce Brosnan giving us an Boorman, John (2001) Thriller / Comedy [R] anti-James Bond character that would later flower beautifully in "The Matador."

 Tale of Tales 7 A visually dazzling and sometimes emotionally haunting interweaving Garrone, Matteo (2015) Fantasy [R] of three "fairy tales" by Giambattista Basile (who predates the Grimm brothers). However, its pacing is such that you might wish for some judicious editing in its first third.

 Talented Mr. Ripley, The 7 (1999) Thriller [R]

 Talk To Her 8 Two men with varying motives meet as they deal with loved ones in Almodóvar, Pedro (2002) Drama [R] comas. Almodóvar spins a tale of communication, second chances and redemption that will keep you watching this twisting tale.

 Talladega Nights: the Ballad of 7 As you might expect of something set in NASCAR Land, this is about Ricky Bobby as broad as a comedy can get but it works. Although Farrell is the star, he is ably supported by a cast of very funny co-stars. McKay, Adam (2006) Comedy [PG-13]

 Tao of Steve, The 8 A ladies man, who has crafted a Zen-like approach to womanizing Goodman, Jenniphr (2000) Comedy [R] from Steve McQueen movies, discovers a woman who doesn't want to be his Grasshopper.

 Tape 8 Intense (sometimes humorously so) drama filmed in a hotal room Linklater, Richard (2001) Drama [R] concerning three adults who damaged their relationships at the end of high school. Great dialog and unpredictable twists.

 Tapeheads 7 An amusing mix of two possibly competent entrants into the music Fishman, Bill (1988) Comedy [R] video scene, perverse politicians and a decent soundtrack. TARANTINO  Reservoir Dogs 8 Quentin Tarantino's first feature film, violent, funny and surprising.  Tarantino, Quentin (1992) Thriller [R]  Pulp Fiction 10 Tarantino's masterpiece of perfectly cadenced dialog, black humor,  Tarantino, Quentin (1994) Thriller [R] Moebius strip plotting, sudden violence and film homages spawned many imitations, but it's very hard to beat the original.

 Jackie Brown 8 Tarantino's third film is less "high style" and more of a straight Tarentino, Quentin (1997) Crime [R] modern noir—not surprising since he adapted it from an Elmore Leonard novel. Good stuff.  Kill Bill: Volume 1 9 An assassin is brutally betrayed on her wedding day and vows  Tarentino, Quentin (2003) Thriller / Martial Arts revenge. This is a multi-styled homage to bloody "grind house" kung [R] fu films, but as usual reassembled into a work of art by the director.  Kill Bill: Volume 2 8 The 2nd half (not sequel) to the movie reveals that what we have is  Tarentino, Quentin (2004) Thriller / Martial Arts an unsweetened love story, the kind that would unfold naturally [R] between killers.

 Grindhouse 9 Rodriguez and Tarantino create a pitch perfect homage to the art of Rodriguez, Tarantino, Others (2007) Thriller [R] the cheap thrill perfected in '70's exploitation films. Not for the squeamish, but the guiltiest of pleasures for fans of unapolegetic brainless humor. My only quibble is that Tarantino's "Death Proof" should run first so that his beautifully rendered dialog does not have to compete with the after-effects of Rodriguez' hyper-intense zombie movie.

 Inglourious Basterds 9 Tarantino proves that his gift for writing tense, loaded dialog extends Tarantino, Quentin (2009) Action [R] into other languages in this alternate history of the end of World War II, in which Jewish terrorist commandos wreak havoc on the Nazis while a French theater owner hatches her own revenge plot.

 Django Unchained 8 Tarantino translates Sergio Corbucci's outlaw loner to an escaped Tarantino, Quentin (2012) Action / Western [R] slave trying to rescue the love of his life, with the kind of edgy subtext that he brings to his movies (along with a fair amount of blood). The original Django makes a cameo.

 Hateful Eight, The 8 A bounty hunter transporting a truly foul-mouthed female prisoner is Tarantino, Quentin (2015) Drama / Action [R] trapped by a snowstorm in a "haberdashery," along with six other miscreants. Some serious shit happens.

 Once Upon a Time In... Hollywood 9 A fading star of Westerns and long-time stunt double who is his Tarantino, Quentin (2019) Drama / Action [R] anchor find themselves pulled into an alternate history of the Manson Family incident. As only he can do, Tarantino takes a visceral plunge into 1969 Los Angeles, seamed with his dialog and studded with tension and occasional violence. T

 Tarnation 9 A bio/autobio that documents a young actor's bittersweet relationship Caouette, Jonathan (2004) Documentary [R] with his mother, a child model and victim of shock therapy that eventually led to his own side trip into the Texas foster system. The dynamic visual style holds your attention through a half hour detailing Caouette's horrific family history until you truly "meet" him in a home movie: an eleven-year-old channeling an abused housewife in a performance that, even though rough at its edges, effortless conveys emotional pain. Then you simply cannot stop watching.

 Tarzan 8 Tarzan gets the Disney animation treatment and escapes with his Buck, C & Lima, K (1999) Adventure [G] jungle credential intact.  Tattoo: A Love Story 8 A very uptight school teacher meets the man of her nightmares. This  Bean, Richard W. (2002) Romance / Comedy [R] is an offbeat comedy with some very funny moments and true heart lining the story.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 143 T  Taxi Driver 9 Scorsese & Deniro's examination of a right-wing fanatic whose  Scorsese, Martin (1976) Drama [R] preparation to "make a difference" turns out quite different from what he (and the horrified audience') expected. Don't miss it. Hey, I'm talking to you.  Team America: World Police 8 A mostly very funny movie that is designed to offend just about  Parker, Trey & Stone, Matt (2004) Comedy / EVERYONE at one point or another, skewering action movie clichés, Action [R] Jerry Bruckheimer, knee-jerk conservative patriotism, politically active liberal actors and simplistic solutions to the world's problems. Not for your grandmother.

 Tears of the Sun 8 An oddly mis-reviewed examination of what it means to feel human (2003) Action [R] suffering and act on that feeling instead of insulating oneself behind "duty" — or the screen of one's TV.

 Teenage 7 Based on the book "Teenage: The Prehistory of Youth Culture: Wolf, Matt (2013) Documentary [UR] 1875-1945," this unusual doc uses archival material and reenactments to follow four teenagers in the build-up to WW2.

 Tell No One 8 An excellent adaptation of a well-constructed Harlen Coben tale Canet, Guillaume (2006) Mystery [UR] about the unsolved mystery behind the murder of a man's wife. A simple carving of lover's initials leads to an emotional wallop you won't soon forget.

 Terminal, The 9 A man whose country evaporates while he is stuck in a New York Spielberg, Steven (2004) Comedy [PG-13] terminal learns to survive "on the inside." TERMINATOR

 Terminator, The 8 One of the classic concepts of mind-bending science fiction brought Cameron, James (1984) Sci-fi / Action [R] to life by one of the true pros of action films.

 Terminator 2: Judgment Day 9 An excellent sequel to the original, further exploring the ramifications Cameron, James (1991) Sci-fi / Action [R] of time travel, plus one of the most horrific depictions of nuclear annihilation one could see — an argument for nuclear non-proliferation that is easily more effective than any op-ed could ever be.

 Terminator 3: Rise of the 7 Diminishing returns, but still a fun movie to watch as we see the Machines military-industrial complex build the prototypes of the machines that would wipe us out. Mostow, Jonathan (2003) Sci-fi [R]

 Terminator: the Sarah Connor 9 Lena Headey kills it as a slightly older Conner shepherding her Chronicles teenage son through the maturing and surviving needed for his future role. Already a crisply-written series with well-placed humor, it jumps Friedman, Josh (2008) Sci-fi / Action [TV-14] to a new level when an ex-member of Joss Whedon's Firefly crew joins the cast.

 Terminator Salvation 7 Not quite a salvation as much as a temporary transfusion, this has McG (2009) Sci-fi [PG-13] some cleverness hidden in a movie whose director answers the question "How do we best advance the plot?" with "Using an action scene, of course!"

 Terminator: Dark Fate 8 This skips the third film in the series in a fan-pleasing reboot after the Miller, Tim (2019) Sci-fi / Action [R] events of "Judgement Day" (which canonically terminated the story as of the 1990s), giving Linda Hamilton a believable reason to still be kicking ass.

 Thank You For Smoking 9 A lobbyist for the tobacco industry reveals the soft spot at the gooey Reitman, Jason (2005) Comedy [R] center of his rotted soul. Very funny.

 The 400 Blows 9 A semi-autobiographical (the director's) story of a boy on the cusp of Truffaut, François (1959) Drama [PG] being a teenager and becoming unmoored from the sandy foundation of his parents. An iconic movie from the French "New Wave" of the 60's.

 The Bank Job 9 Roughly based on a true story of a bank heist by an unlikely group of Donaldson, Roger (2008) Crime [R] semi-pros, this is an enjoyable caper movie with just the right mix of suspense, humor and satisfying plot.

 The Bicycle Thief 9 A carefully crafted and universally applicable exploration of the Sica, Vittorio De (1948) Drama [PG] desperation in which the Italian poor lived after World War II that leads, if you grasp all the nuances, to one of the most wrenching endings in film.

 The Bodyguard 9 Another classic Kurosawa film, remade as "A Fistful of Dollars," about Kurosawa, Akira (1961) Adventure / Comedy a roaming Samourai who outwits a village of feuding fools.

 The Bride with White Hair 8 A traditional Chinese story of the supernatural, told beautifully in a Yu, Ronny (1993) Fantasy [R] bright, colorful style.

 The Name of the Rose 8 A deep mystery at a 14th century abbey is tackled by a monk and his Annaud, Jean-jacques (1986) Mystery [R] assistant. A classic whodunit in an unfamiliar setting.

 The Professional 7 (1994) Crime [R]

 The Red Violin 8 Entertaining stories about the people who encounter a singular violin Girard, François (1998) Drama / Romance [NR] through history.

 Thelma 7 A girl enters college and finds both social and romantic conflicts with Trier, Joachim (2017) Drama / Fantasy [NR] her strict religious upbringing. The stress brings out hidden aspects of her talents that turn dangerous. Although this is essentially a horror movie, it is far from the typical Hollywood style and will not keep you awake at night, in more ways than one.

 There's Something About Mary 8 The tale of a long-lost love and a nerdish suitor's attempts to remedy Farrelly Brothers, The (1999) Comedy / that problem, hindered by his extraordinaty abiity to get into Romance [R] breathtaking predicaments of embarrassment.

 Thin Man, The 8 The film debut of Nick and Nora Charles was decidedly ahead of its Dyke, W. S. Van (1934) Comedy / Mystery [PG] time (and now a bit behind, with that "alcoholics are hilarious" bit). For those who have only seen it sliced up for late night TV, the DVD is worth checking out.

 Thin Red Line, The 9 Close but not quite as unnerving as "Saving Private Ryan" this film Malick, Terrence (1998) Adventure [R] nevertheless effectively conveys the horror of war contrasted against the beauty of nature.

 Thing, The 7 Yet another remake of the John W. Campbell story is a sturdy but not Heijningen Jr., Matthijs Van (2011) Horror / Sci-fi necessarily exceptional "prequel" to the Carpenter version. [R]

 Third Man, The 9 A classic post-war mystery that is spoiled a bit by the opening credits. (1949) Thriller / Film Noir

 Thirteen 9 "Raising Ophelia" meets "Requiem for a Dream" (although not as Hardwicke, Catherine (2003) Drama [R] ultimately grim as the latter), this is probably a hard movie for the parents of teenage girls to watch, because it captures a believable transition from innocence to total loss of control.

 Thirteen Conversations About One 8 Excellent multi-story film about finding (or making) something Thing meaningful about life. Sprecher, Jill (2001) Drama / Comedy [R]

 Thirteen Days 9 Slightly fictionalized account of the Cuban Missile Crisis that gets you (2000) Drama / Historical [PG-13] pretty close to the real fears it produced.

 Thirteenth Floor, The 7 A crossing of genres as a computer scientist races to find a Rusnak, Josef (1999) Sci-fi [R] mysterious document. Enjoyably imaginative science fiction.

 This Film Is Not Yet Rated 8 Since this film exposes the biased and unsupportable results of a film Dick, Kirby (2006) Documentary [NC-17] rating system designed to support large corporate studios, it's rating should be taken with a grain of (silver) salt. If you've ever wondered why on earth a film got the rating it did, here's the answer.

 This Is 40 8 Apatow follows up with a secondary couple from "Knocked Up" and Apatow, Judd (2012) Comedy [R] how they deal with encroaching decrepitude (middle age). Funny and knowing.  This Is Spinal Tap 10 Classic rock band parody. I would give it an "11" but my meter  Reiner, Rob (1984) Comedy [R] doesn't go that far.

 Thomas Crown Affair, The 7 (1999) Thriller [R]

 Thoroughbreds 8 Two upper-class misfits with a penchant for plotting mischief wreak Finley, Cory (2017) Thriller [R] havoc on their various parental characters. Nasty comic fun.

 Three Burials of Melquiades 9 A darkly comic tale of Western justice heads south of the border, right Estrada, The into Gabriel Garcia Marquez territory. Jones, Tommy Lee (2005) Drama / Comedy [R]

 Three Identical Strangers 8 You would think that the "separated at birth" aspect of this story Wardle, Tim (2018) Documentary [PG-13] would be enough for a movie, but hold on tight, because it gets weirder than you expect after that.

 Three Kings 9 On-target mix of war horror and humor during Gulf War I. Probably (1999) Adventure / Comedy [R] not a favorite in Bush households.

 Three Stooges, The 7 If you have not seen the previews, maybe the howler of a gag that Farrelly, B & Farrelly, P (2012) Comedy [PG] saves the first third of this homage will not be wasted. If not, you will have to wait for the true humor to kick in later. This is worth watching for its respect for well-timed physical comedy as well as for the social commentary implicit in how Moe becomes a '"success" (nyuck nyuck) Regrettably, the Farrelly brothers come on at the end to explain that what happend to an infamous set of media personalities was not real. Wait a MINUTE...!

 Throne of Blood 9 Kurosawa's take on MacBeth translates the play into Noh theater and Kurosawa, Akira (1957) Drama [UR] that into a proper film, but set in feudal Japan amid the eerie environment of a fortress at the center of a maze-like forest. The final scene, involving real arrows shot at a real (important) actor, cannot be topped by any special effect.

 Tim's Vermeer 9 Part detective story and part character study, an engineer with no Teller (2013) Documentary [UR] experience in painting sets out to prove a theory about how Vermeer accomplished his beautifully realistic paintings of light.

 Time Machine, The 7 (2002) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 Time Out 8 An mid-level executive isn't what he appears to be to his family, not to Cantet, Laurent (2003) Drama [PG-13] mention his friends. A humorous undertone lightens this sometimes intense character study of a man who just wants to drop out.

 Time Traveler's Wife, The 7 This is essentially an emotionally resonant chick-flick hiding in a Schwentke, Robert (2009) Fantasy / Romance fantasy movie, whose answer to the question "Well, where could this [PG-13] possibly go?" isn't much of a real surprise, but it doesn't overplay its hand and makes for a pretty good date movie.  Timecrimes 9 When his wife leaves on an errand, a middle-aged man follows a  Vigalondo, Nacho (2007) Sci-fi [R] curious sight right into a perfectly staged logical nightmare. A beautifully plotted little twister that sucks you into the rapidly deterioriating dilemma of its "hero."

 Tin Cup 8 The journey of a washed up man from hilariously troubled golf pro to Shelton, Ron (1996) Comedy [R] a comeback chance, without getting too terribly conventional in how things play out.

 Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy 9 A disgraced intelligence expert slowly pulls in a net seeking a mole at Alfredson, Tomas (2011) Thriller [R] the top of British Intelligence. As a cerebral counterpoint to its more over-the-top brethren, this cold war tale (chilling is perhaps the right word) is elegantly understated while sucking you in nevertheless.

 Titan A.E. 7 This nicely done sci-fi animation for pre-teens and later follows an Bluth, Goldman, Vitello (2000) Sci-fi / Action orphaned teen in a universe where Earth is gone and the human race [PG] is just as orphaned as he.

 Titanic 10 The emotionally resonant "you are there" impact of this "Romeo and Cameron, James (1997) Drama [PG-13] Juliet at Sea" blockbuster cannot be denied, nor the ache for things long lost that haunts you as the credits roll.

 To Be or Not to Be 9 Jack Benny and Carole Lombard help hunt down a Nazi spy while Lubitsch, Ernst (1942) Comedy putting on a production of Shakespeare. A mix of serious themes with much humor that works extremely well.

 To Live and Die in L. A. 8 You really aren't sure who to root for in this cynical, Friedkin, William (1985) Crime [R] avenge-my-partner-at-all-costs thriller, which makes it sort of noir, but with a distracting 80's sensibility. Extra points for an ending that doesn't pull away from the roulette table.

 Together 7 A woman and her two children escape from an abusive marriage to (2011) Comedy / Drama [R] the uninhibited communal life of her milquetoast brother, setting off a series of "adjustments" in the lives of everyone in the movie. A low-key but satisfying character comedy.  Tokyo Drifter 6 A yakuza's attempts to go straight are foiled. Although  Suzuki, Seijun (1966) Action [NR] plot-challenged (esp. for Americans), this is a prime Japanese 60's B-movie, chock full of visual fun.

 Tokyo Godfathers 8 Three incredibly unlikely nurturers find an abandoned baby during the Furuya, Shôgo (2003) Comedy [PG-13] Christmas season and must decide whether to keep it or find the parents. A fine, funny example of animation for adults.

 Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship 10 Part 1 of the best fantasy film ever made and one of the best of any of the Ring, The genre: It paints the classic themes of human drama against an eye-popping background of visual delights. Jackson, Peter (2001) Fantasy [PG-13]

 Lord of the Rings: The Two 10 Part 2 of the trilogy again brings us the small details of personal terror Towers, The and heroism amidst one of the most awesome battles ever filmed. Jackson, Peter (2002) Fantasy [PG-13]

 Lord of the Rings: The Return of 10 The final chapter of a new standard in film-making: The last heir of a the King, The broken line of kings conquers his own doubts and overwhelming forces, while Frodo nearly fails his own quest except for the Jackson, Peter (2003) Fantasy [PG-13] unflagging help of many others. Still, he finds that in saving the land he loves, he has done so for all but himself.

 Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, 8 This delivers all the Tolkienesque fantasy you might want, yet the The decision by management (we can only suppose) to turn it into three movies instead of just two is evident. This is the first in the oeuvre in Jackson, Peter (2012) Fantasy [PG-13] which I can imagine the director would make his "director's cut" substantially shorter.

 Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, 8 The second chapter shows the most padding, as the writers bring in The large chunks of Tolkien material that was not in source in novel. However, this installment contains the meeting with Beorn, the Jackson, Peter (2013) Fantasy [PG-13] journey through Mirkwood / Forest Elves and the introduction of Smaug, which are handled with the skill we expect from the overworked Jackson.

 Hobbit: the Battle of Five Armies, 8 The tale is wrapped up in fine style, although after six movies you The may be over-saturated with MIddle-Earth battle scenes (for that reason, I hesitate to recommend that first time viewers watch "The Jackson, Peter (2014) Fantasy [PG-13] Hobbit" movies first). Jackson should be congratulated for surviving what the corporate suits put him through. T

 Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan 8 This TV adaptation of the Tom Clancy series shows promise, Cuse, C & Roland, G (2018) Action [TV-MA] although this Jack sometimes jumps to more conclusions than a sober analyst might venture. Seasons 1 and 2 were both entertaining and satisfying.

 Tom Dowd & the Language of 9 In the late 40's a physicist flamed out from his chosen profession in Music the most ironic definition possible for that phrase. This tale of his subsequent life as a recording engineer is proof that the "secondary" Moormann, Mark (2003) Documentary [NR] names littering the liner notes of music recordings can hide lives of jaw-dropping influence. Anyone who has enjoyed progressive music since World War II should not miss this. TOMB RAIDER

 Lara Croft Tomb Raider 7 The video game springs to life with the only human capable of West, Simon (2001) Adventure [PG-13] duplicating the title character's, uh, physical features.

 Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The 7 This sequel to the first Lara Croft holds its own, although neither quite Cradle of Life achieve the level of the Indiana Jones series. Bont, Jan De (2003) Adventure [PG-13]

 Tomb Raider 7 Alicia Vikander's take on Lara Croft is a much younger and... Uthaug, Roar (2018) Action [PG-13] weaker? more vulnerable? whinier? ...version of the adventure hero and it's a little disconcerting if you have already seen Angelina Jolie's older, more confident portrayal. A fun movie nevertheless with inventive special effects and a nice plot twist. T

 Tomorrowland 7 It's predictable in some places, but surprising in others and ultimately Bird, Brad (2015) Sci-fi [PG] this is full of great action set pieces and a decent amount of conceptual depth. There is an unsettling amount of violence for the kids who might get to see this based on the rating (I guess the board just saw "Disney" on the title).

 Tony Takitani 8 An elegiacal study of an illustrator's break from loneliness in pursuing Ichikawa, Jun (2004) Drama [PG] a lovely young woman with a fatal flaw. A stately exercise in mood that captures the rapture and fear bound up in romantic relations.

 Top Five 9 A hilarious film about breaking out of the often invisible bubble of Rock, Chris (2014) Comedy [R] stardom. It utilitizes its extensive cast of comedians in a way that it both organic and perfectly matched to the story. Extra credit for a perfect little ending.

 Top of the Lake 8 The attempted suicide of a young girl sets off a chain of events Campion, Jane & various others (2013) Mystery / involving a female detective with ties to the girl's New Zealand Drama [TV-MA] community. The acting and the plot in this seven episode mini-series are gritty and realistic; those strengths and the Twin Peaks feel make this a cut above your average mystery.

 Topkapi 8 Jewel thiefs, museums and schemes add up to a classic '60s heist Dassin, Jules (1964) Crime [UR] movie.

 Torremolinos 73 7 When a failing encyclopedia publisher decides to produce an Berger, Pablo (2003) Comedy / Drama [UR] audio-visual "encyclopedia of reproduction" with a Swedish "research" group, one of his remaining salesmen and his wife find a life-changing opportunity in this well-acted, sometimes touching Spanish sex farce — supposedly based on a true incident in Franco's Spain.

 Tortilla Soup 8 Entertaining re-make of "Eat Drink Man Woman" with a Ripoll, María (2001) Romance / Comedy [PG-13] Mexican-American family and equally wonderful food.

 Touch of Evil 9 Orson Wells brings his artistic craft to a film noir set on the U.S. / Welles, Orson (1958) Crime / Film Noir [PG-13] Mexican border. Although Charleston Heston does not quite nail his attempt to "pass" as a Latino actor, it is otherwise a fine example of the genre, with a high-tension long take getting the proceedings off to an explosive start.

 Tower Heist 7 A moderately entertaining movie about a comeuppance at the hands Ratner, Brett (2011) Comedy [PG-13] of the "little people," with a nice collection of old and new comedy players.

 Town Called Panic, A 9 This tremendously inventive, crazy-ass claymation for teens and Aubier, S & Patar, V (2009) Comedy [UR] adults should be on your list headed "Something Completely Different." Basically it's the exploits of plastic toys such as a Cowboy, Indian, Horse, etc. plotted by an adventurous six-year-old and it's a real hoot.

 Town, The 9 One of Affleck's best, a crime story in which the city is as much a Affleck, Ben (2010) Crime [R] character as anything. TOY STORY

 Toy Story 10 Anthropomorphism reigns! The fear of being abandoned gets a real Lasseter, John (1995) Fantasy / Comedy [G] workout here in this soaring story of toys with hilariously clashing personal narratives. This was the beginning of Pixar's domination of whole-family entertainment, proof that well-developed characters will seldom let a story-teller down.

 Toy Story 2 10 Pixar continues to score big with this equally heartfelt sequel, in John Lasseter, Ash Brannon (1999) Fantasy / which the Big Bad is a toy collector who aims to stuff our heroes and Comedy [G] heroines into shrink wrap prisons.

 Toy Story 3 9 In the first film, our heroes had to escape a sadistic goth teenager. Unkrich, Lee (2010) Fantasy / Comedy [G] Here, the horror is much worse: a daycare center! Lesseter's crew is stlil in peak form in this funny and emotionally touching reunion of our favorite playthings. T

 Traffic 9 An absorbing study of the tangled personal and cultural issues of the Soderbergh, Steven (2000) Crime [R] drug trade and the "war" on drugs.

 Training Day 7 (2001) Thriller [R]  Trainspotting 8 Oh, what fun you can have on heroin....not! (but hardly the moral tale  (1996) Thriller [R] that "Requiem for a Dream" is).

 Trainwreck 8 "Amy Schumer and Bill Hader" That is enough to earn an easy 7 on Apatow, Judd (2015) Comedy [R] the scale, but this one has enough of Schumer's deeper satirical take to be one of Apatow better comedies.

 Traitor 8 Two FBI agents track a Muslim terrorist who may have plans of his Nachmanoff, Jeffrey (2008) Thriller [PG-13] own. Well-balanced thriller that keeps you guessing as to the motives of all involved.

 Transformers 7 Tightly edited action makes it better than you might expect Bay, Michael (2007) Sci-fi / Action [PG-13] considering the source material, but still pretty much a teenager's movie with a marked lack of concern for collateral damage.

 Transporter 2 7 This sequel to a reasonably good action film veers off into late-model Leterrier, Louis (2005) Action [PG-13] Bondian absurdity that had my kids muttering "oh, come ON!"

 Transporter, The 7 A few gaps in logic to be ignored, but otherwise a well-made action Leterrier, Louis (2002) Crime [PG-13] movie about a discrete and well-organized mover of "packages" for the underworld.

 Transsiberian 7 Two couples meet on a trip from western Russia to Moscow and the Anderson, Brad (2008) Thriller [R] question to ask is who ISN'T hiding something. Fairly well-paced with some good thrills, but some plot devices require suspension of disbelief.

 Treasure Planet 7 Reasonably well-done update to the original movie of the R. L. (2002) Sci-fi [PG] Stevenson novel.

 Tree of Life 7 Visually thrilling, but not quite coherent (but don't let that stop you Malick, Terrence (2011) Drama [PG-13] from seeing it).

 Trekkies 9 Wonderfully balanced examination of the "Trekkie" phenomenon. (1997) Documentary / Comedy [PG] Quite a hoot.  Triplets Of Belleville, The 10 His grandmother, her dog and an elderly jazz age trio try to rescue a  Chomet, Sylvain (2003) Comedy / Comedy kidnapped cyclist from the French mafia. Although it's in French, the [PG-13] lack of dialog and surplus of hilarious visual jokes make it a real winner, especially for fans of Jacques Tati.

 Triumph Of Love, The 8 A revamped 18th century farce is expanded to the stage of a verdant Peploe, Clare (2001) Comedy / Romance estate (although we occasionally see the summer theater "audience" [PG-13] in the background). If you accept "farce" as also implying "somewhat unbelievable," you'll enjoy this a lot.

 Troll Hunter 8 A Norwegian entry into the faux "documentary footage found Øvredal, André (2011) Horror / Comedy [R] somewhere" genre, with the rich mythology of trolls supplying the material and a college film class supplying the soon-to-be-missing bodies. It works quite well.

 Trouble in Paradise 8 Two thieves scheme and flirt with disaster, romantic and otherwise, in Lubitsch, Ernst (1932) Comedy [NR] a classic pre-"Production Code" farce.

 Trouble the Water 10 While filming the beginnings of a documentary about the Katrina Deal, Carl & Lessin, Tia (2008) Documentary [R] aftermath, two filmmakers are approached by two survivors with footage of their own and a formidable spirit to go with it. The result is the best possible example of the documentary genre: a film that puts you right into the lives of others.

 Troy 8 Although it runs a little long, this recreation of the story behind the Petersen, Wolfgang (2004) Action / Drama [R] Trojan War holds up as both action film and decent riff on the drama about which history may only hint.

 True Grit 7 Until the Coen brothers bested it, this was one of the definitive Hathaway, Henry (1969) Adventure / Western Westerns, wherein a young girl hires a grizzled gunman to help her [G] seek revenge for the murder of her father.

 True Grit 9 A new version of the novel on which the '69 movie was based, but Coen, E & Coen, J (2010) Adventure / Western with authenticity instead of John Wayne. Excellent portrayal of [PG-13] western living and the personalities it took to survive it.

 True Lies 8 Although some of the plot twists involving infidelity are just a bit hard Cameron, James (1994) Action / Comedy [R] to accept, this is a damned fine example of how to do an action movie.

 True Romance 8 A comics store grunt and a call girl fall in love and accidentally steal a Scott, Tony (1993) Thriller / Crime [R] large amount of cocaine; fireworks ensue. Written by Q. Tarantino.

 Truly Madly Deeply 8 Minghella, Anthony (1990) Romance / Comedy [PG]  Truman Show, The 10 A happy man's life holds one humongous secret. If it's possible that  Weir, Peter (1998) Sci-fi / Comedy [PG] you know nothing about this movie, do NOT find out anything except by watching it. Don't even read the cover.

 Truth About Cats & Dogs, The 8 A radio host with self-esteem issues asks a gorgeous friend to fill in Lehmann, Michael (1996) Romance / Comedy for her on a date. [PG-13]

 Truth Seekers 8 If you enjoyed the bonkers style of Edgar Wright's Cornetto Trilogy, Frost, N & Pegg, S, Others (2020) Comedy / you will also enjoy this mix of comedy, science fiction and Horror [TV-14] supernatural from the regulars of those films. Great characters, some nice twists and a lot of fun.

 Tsotsi 10 A hoodlum in the making has a chance encounter with a life-changing Hood, Gavin (2005) Drama [R] character who brings out his humanity. An excellent, suspenseful tale from the slums of Johannesburg.  Tucker and Dale Vs. Evil 9 Obviously well-versed in the trappings of backwoods horror movies,  Craig, Eli (2010) Horror / Comedy [R] the director and writer run a jubilant chainsaw through every possible cliché from that genre, producing a gut-busting (heh) turning of the tables. Don't miss this if you enjoyed horror/comedy romps like "Evil Dead 2" or "Død Snø." You will enjoy it even more if you know the meaning of "Checkhov's Gun."

 Twister 8 A thiller about tornado chasing scientists grounded in an emotional (1996) Thriller [PG-13] back-story and some sci-fi-ish realism. Probably best in a theater, but a good sound system won't hurt.

 Two Brothers 8 Two tiger cubs separated after capture have cuddly and Annaud, Jean-jacques (2004) Adventure [PG] not-so-cuddly adventures. Very well done animal flick.

 Two Faces of January, The 7 Low on action but high on tension and with a 60's thriller feel, this Amini, Hossein (2014) Crime [PG-13] adaptation of a Patricia Highsmith story puts a less-than-honest Greek tour guide in the middle of events with consequences that steadily worsen.

 Two Hands 8 Nicely done "small" crime movie, set in Australia, in which a young Jordan, Gregor (1999) Crime / Comedy [R] hustler tries to get himself out of a very sticky situation. A good deal of tension is balanced by black humor and some truly inventive plot turns.

 Two Weeks Notice 7 (2002) Romance [PG-13] U

 U-571 8 A very effective drama from World War II's submarine operations. Mostow, Jonathan (2000) Action [PG-13]

 U.S. Marshals 7 (1998) Crime [PG-13]  Unbreakable 8 A man discovers he cannot be hurt in this thoughtful (and of course,  Shyamalan, M. Night (2000) Fantasy [PG-13] twisting) riff on the mythology of super heroes.

 Unconscious 9 In the days when Freud was achieving rock-god status, two Spanish Oristrell, Joaquín (2004) Comedy [R] psychiatrists and their wives, who are sisters, discover just how little they know about themselves, much less each other. A clever and enjoyable sex farce that defeats one's ability to predict what will happen next with these four.

 Undercover Brother 7 Sometimes silly takeoff on spy movies and blaxplotation films. Lee, Malcolm D. (2002) Comedy [PG-13]

 Undertaking Betty 7 The solution to a long-thwarted love affair goes a bit off course in this Hurran, Nick (2002) Comedy [PG-13] slightly-too-loony to believe farce set in Wales.

 Undertow 8 A character-driven road movie that skillfully mixes whimsical humor Green, David Gordon (2004) Drama [R] with creeping dread of sudden violence.

 Underworld 7 Vampires vs. werewolves with lots of killer hardware. A B-movie with Wiseman, Len (2003) Action / Fantasy [R] high production values, but it takes itself a little too seriously.

 Underworld Evolution 7 A "moments later..." continuation of the plot (as such) of the first. Wiseman, Len (2006) Action / Fantasy [R] Except for one time out for a little mutant - vampire - werewolf - whatever love-making (with no hint of what interesting humanoid might result from it), this is one long, expertly delivered action piece in which the special effects are almost entirely seamless in all their blood-splashing, head-ripping, body-splattering glory. Not for kids.

 Unforgiven 9 A meditation on the consequences of a violent life that avoids an Eastwood, Clint (1992) Drama / Western [R] easy resolution. Eastwood's best (at least until "Mystic River")

 Up 9 Pixar's chain of winners that mix fantastic storylines with real Docter, P & Peterson, B (2009) Adventure / emotions continues unbroken in this tale of an old man who comes Comedy [PG] loose from his moorings in a frustrated life. The amazing scenery is actually real, as proven by a wonderful disk extra about the creators' field trip to South America.

 Up in the Air 9 George Clooney plays a hatchet-man for hire, whose docket is full of Reitman, Jason (2009) Comedy / Romance [R] down-sizing corporate clients. It's both a funny and wise filme, with dead-on humor that contrasts the need for personal relations with the nearly sociopathic nature of destroying people's sense of stability.

 Upgrade 8 After a tragedy occurs, a survivor is given an opportunity for both Whannell, Leigh (2018) Sci-fi / Action [R] biomechanical recovery and vengeance. This is a cracking sci-fi action film that suffers from some predictability. Maybe. Guess you'll have to watch it to find out.

 Us 9 Already haunted by PTSD from a frightening childhood experience, a Peele, Jordan (2019) Horror [R] woman's family is taken hostage by four strangers who are nevertheless creepily familiar. Those looking for exact explanations for what happens will be only half-satisfied, but that is not the point of symbol-laden horror parable with an ending that questions the nature of personality.  Usual Suspects, The 9 Thieves get hired by a mysterious Eastern European crime lord.  (1995) Thriller / Film Noir V  V for Vendetta 9 An ideas movie that answers the questions it asks — and then makes McTeigue, James (2006) Action [R] you question the answers. A mix of provocative word-play and exhilirating action that should leave you with something to talk about.

 V/H/S 7 A mixed bag of horror shorts, primarly centered on males acting with Multiple (2012) Horror [R] less than admirable motives , and using the "found footage" technique. They are mostly effective, with the more glaring problem being a need for tighter editing in a couple of them. However, the tension and occasional inventiveness make it worth a look, especially

 Valet, The 8 A very enjoyable French romantic comedy about a parking valet who Veber, Francis (2006) Comedy [PG-13] gets entangled in the adulterous schemes of a corporate jerk-in-chief.

 Vampire Hunter D 7 Before there was Blade, there was this groundbreaking, well-drawn Ashida, Toyoo and Macek, Carl (1985) Horror / anime about a half-vampire who hunted down others who preyed on Horror humans.

 Vampire Party 7 A fairly entertaining spoof, in which friends get themselves invited to a Cafiero, S & Lobelle, V (2010) Comedy / Horror party at a remote mansion where the party favors may turn out to be [NR] themselves.

 Vampires 7 A respectable outing with a gang of vampire killers on a mission from Carpenter, John (1998) Horror [R] the Pope.

 Van Helsing 7 In a way that is similar but inferior to Tarantino's collage of Asian Sommers, Stephen (2004) Adventure / Horror cinema devices in "Kill Bill," this rearranges all the pieces of great [PG-13] action/horror from the last seventy years into an assembly line of set pieces that are entertaining but leave you begging for less.  Vanilla Sky 8 An effective remake of the Spanish film "Abre Los Ojos" ("Open Your  Crowe, Cameron (2001) Thriller [R] Eyes"), in which the life of a wealthy playboy takes a dramatic turn after a tragic accident — but not nearly as dramatic as what happens next. A real mindbender of a movie.

 Vanity Fair 8 Dicken's tale of an up-and-coming governess who invades British Nair, Mira (2004) Drama [PG-13] society is enlivened by Reese Witherspoon.  Velvet Goldmine 7 Glam rock's "That Thing You Do," based on the relationship between  Haynes, Todd (1998) Drama / Music [R] David Bowie and Iggy Pop. Obi Wan, does the Jedi Council know about this one?

 Vengeance 7 After a tragedy involving his daughter, a chef with a past — and a To, Johnnie (2009) Action [UR] fading memory of his present — shows up in Macau looking for payback. Well-paced actioner with some unexpected twists in the standard plot.

 Very Annie Mary 7 A young Welsh woman struggles under the rule of her local-hero Sugarman, Sara (2001) Comedy / Drama [R] peacock of a father. Its predictability is offset by the extremely charming and often hilarious performance by Rachel Griffiths and the matching set of equally entertaining secondary characters.

 Very Long Engagement, A 8 A young woman refuses to believe her fianciee died in a WWI trench. Jeunet, Jean-Pierre (2004) Drama [R] An epic combination of romance, detective yarn and adventure that rewards the time spent  Vexille 7 Set In a future where Japan has ignored international limitations on  Sori, Fumihiko (2007) Sci-fi [PG-13] robotic development and isolated itself from the rest of Earth. An investigating agent tries to determine what is going on and discovers a horrifying secret in this extremely well-rendered CG anime.

 Vicky Cristina Barcelona 9 A shifting romance between a Spanish artist and three women finds Allen, Woody (2008) Drama / Comedy [PG-13] Woody Allen back in top form, spinning a tale that expertly rides the intersection of satire and drama.

 Village, The 8 A Puritan-like group living in a self-sustaining settlement at the edge Shyamalan, M. Night (2019) Thriller [PG-13] of a forest are plagued by creatures who demand an occasional sacrifice. It's Shyamalan so you know a big surprise is coming. It's a

 Villainess, The 8 This loose remake of Besson's "La Femme Nikita" (including two Jung, Byung-gil (2017) Thriller [NR] scenes that are direct homages) adds in a bit of "Hardcore Henry" in its first set piece, then mixes generous slabs of explosive action with its star-crossed romance. It ultimately ends with an eye-popping chase and close-quarters fight on a bus—something to awe both action fans and students of cinematography.

 Visitor, The 9 McCarthy scores again in this absorbing tale of a worn-out scholar's McCarthy, Thomas (2007) Drama [PG-13] unlikely friendship with an immigrant couple. Its interesting variation on the "meet cute" device belies the deeper material to come.

 Voices of a Distant Star 8 This short, one-man anime about two young lovers separated by Shinkai, Makoto (2003) Sci-fi [NR] impossible gaps of distance and time is both beatifully rendered and emotionally touching.

 Volver 9 Ghosts, murder and family secrets get rolled into an affecting and Almodóvar, Pedro (2006) Drama / Comedy [R] very unpredictable story of the complex relationship among several generations of Spanish women. W

 Wag the Dog 8 A comedy, about a CGA war used for political purposes, that is just a Levinson, Barry (1997) Drama / Comedy [R] bit too close to reality for comfort.

 Waitress 8 This story of a small town waitress with an almost magical gift for Shelly, Adrienne (2006) Drama [PG-13] creating pies is one of those "small" films that leave you more than happy to have seen them.  Waking Life 9 Hyper-cool head trip about dreams, dreams within dreams and  Linklater, Richard (2000) Drama / Drama [R] philosophy. Definitely worth seeing if you're in the mood for some thought-provoking, visually striking entertainment. The DVD's commentary track and subtitles are worth checking out.

 Walk the Line 9 The story of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, told with an eye for Mangold, James (2005) Drama [PG-13] the emotional conflicts and weaknesses that made their story bittersweet amid all of the artistic success.

 Walk, The 8 This is the fictionalized version of the famous walk between the World Zemeckis, Robert (2015) Drama / Thriller [PG] Trade Center towers by French daredevil Philippe Petit. Very enjoyable adaptation that gives you an unnerving feel for what the walk was like, but see "Man On Wire" for a more accurate telling of the story.

 Wallace & Gromit in the Curse of 9 The plasticine duo return in a very funny escapade. It cheerfully the Were-rabbit throws all sorts of genres and throw-away references into a vegetable and cheese casserole that shouldn't be missed. Box, Steve & Park, Nick (2005) Comedy [G]

 Wall·e 10 A lone robot, left on Earth to clean up the mess left by humans, has Stanton, Andrew (2008) Sci-fi [G] an unexpected adventure with major implications for the human race. He's cute, too. Not to be missed.

 Wanted 8 A testosterone-fueled conversion of a graphic novel about a society Bekmambetov, Timur (2008) Action [R] of assassins is chock full of stylish action aimed straight at the 12-year-olds who will have to sneak in to see it, but still, it's well-executed fun with some nice twists.

 War Horse 8 The adventures of a one-of-a-kind thoroughbred, passing from a poor Spielberg, Steven (2011) Adventure / Drama farm boy who coveted it as a foal to a series of people who thought [PG13] they owned it during World War 2. Pushes the maudlin buttons a bit, but is still a rousing adventure with impressive sound effects.

 War of the Worlds 8 Once again, the earth is attacked by inhumanly (duh) murderous Spielberg, Stephen (2005) Sci-fi [PG-13] Martians who should know better than to travel to a foreign planet without their immunizations (oh, I'm sorry, was that a spoiler? You should have read the book by now, dammit.) Spielberg's vision of the invaders is pretty chilling in a retro kind of way, although I would still like to see a version set in the original time period.

 Warrior, The 8 An absorbing tale of redemption against a backdrop of stunning Kapadia, Asif (2001) Drama [R] northern Indian landscapes. This movie's only real problem is the very misleading marketing that seems to promise an action film. The "R" rating is a joke.

 Wasabi 7 A fast-punching French cop returns to Japan after an ex-love dies Krawczyk, Gérard (2001) Action [R] and leaves him everything, which is another word for trouble.

 Way, Way Back, The 9 A fourteen-year-old, lost in the changes brought by his mother's new Faxon, N & Rash, J (2013) Comedy / Drama boyfriend, finds his own path during a summer vacation. A really [PG-13] satisfying story about the need to find people who don't already "know" you.

 Wedding Planner, The 7 (2001) Romance [PG-13]

 Wedding Singer, The 7 (1998) Comedy [PG-13]

 Welcome To Mooseport 7 A newly-retired ex-president challenges the town handyman for Petrie, Donald (2004) Comedy [PG-13] mayor, much to the regret of everyone involved.

 Welcome to the Dollhouse 8 Grim but accurate black comedy about a teen girl's attempts to Solondz, Todd (1996) Comedy / Drama [R] survive normal life.  West Bank Story 9 This hilarious short musical reconstructs Israeli-Palestinian conflict in  Sandel, Ari (2005) Musical / Comedy [NR] the form of two rival fast food joints staffed by some very stubborn characters, plus one star-crossed couple.

 West of Memphis 10 A final review of the false case against three teenagers convicted of Berg, Amy (2012) Documentary [R] murdering three eight-year-old boys in West Memphis, Arkansas, with the final resolution that strongly implicates the true perp while showing what a self-serving prick the prosecutor was and is.

 Whale Rider 10 This is not quite a kids film, given all the more complex themes on Caro, Niki (2003) Drama [PG-13] display, but it's a thoroughly riveting story of a young who fights tradition to achieve her destiny.

 What Ever Happened To Baby 8 An aging child star slowly dissipates into drunken madness as her Jane? crippled sister looks on in less-than-voluntary horror. A classic of psychogical horror that is tempered with ample doses of black humor. Aldrich, Robert (1962) Horror [UR]

 What I Want My Words To Do To 8 Women in prison for murder open themselves up to healing in a You writing workshop that ends in a performance (occasionally pushed stylistically) of their work by a group of well-known actresses. Worth Gavin, Katz & Sunshine (2003) Documentary [UR] watching for the way it helps us see people as more than the crimes they committed.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 156 Jim's Video List W  What the #$*! Do We (k)now!? 7 A motley assortment of experts and mystics discuss the state of the  Chasse, Antz & (2004) Documentary [NR] arts and sciences regarding man and the universe, woven into a fictional storyline that illustrates some of it. A solid attempt at connecting popular science & philosophy, as long as you take it as an inspiration for finding out more, not as a definitive source.

 What We Do in the Shadows 9 The lives, loves and annoyances of four vampires living together. Did Clement, J & Waititi, T (2014) Comedy / Horror you think the vampire genre was worn out? This is hilarious proof [R] otherwise. For some reason, I can't help laughing every time Stu is on screen.

 What Women Want 7 ...is a movie with Mel Gibson in which he doesn't shoot anyone. An Meyers, Nancy (2000) Comedy [PG-13] accident gives a chauvinistic marketer the ability to read women's minds. WHEDON

 Buffy the Vampire Slayer 7 The original film about a very unlikely killer of vampires was Kuzui, Fran Rubel (1992) Horror / Comedy moderately entertaining, but offered only a shallow taste of the [PG-13] beloved television series that would follow (and the movie's dumbing down of Whedon's original script might be called criminal). Not really required for anything but completeness.  Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV) 10 Easily one of the top ten (top three?) all-time reasons to watch TV,  Whedon, Joss (1997) Drama / Horror [TV-14] this series used horror as an excuse to delve into universal themes of growing up, friendship, life and death. And it did it with some of the funniest dialog ever heard from a screen. Season 1 was an entertaining setup for the unexpectedly riveting story arcs that followed it, and like all Joss Whedon creations, MUST be watched in proper order.

 Angel 9 A vampire with a soul spins off to do good in Los Angeles after Whedon, J & Greenwalt, D (1999) Fantasy / accepting that his romance with a vampire slayer is about as Comedy [TV-14] star-crossed as they come. What follows is classic Joss Whedon drama, humor and horror as its characters, all introduced in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," grow into adult roles, battling both hell demons and corporate demons—and sometimes themselves. The final episodes put you through an emotional wringer you won't soon forget.

 Firefly 10 A criminally short-lived series about the losers of an interstellar war Whedon, Joss (2002) Sci-fi [TV-14] who preserve their freedom aboard a cargo ship, performing various legal and not quite legal jobs. Superior writing, great characters and unpredictable humor make this Joss Whedon creation a stand-out that should not be missed (and should be watched before viewing the later film "Serenity").

 Serenity 9 The director rewards the faithful with a film that ties up many of the Whedon, Joss (2005) Sci-fi [PG-13] loose ends left when "Firefly" was aborted by the gang of idiots at Fox. Although it stands alone as a great sci-fi adventure movie, I highly recommend watching the 15 episodes from the series first (and in proper order).  Dr. Horrible's Sing-along Blog 10 A Greek tragedy masquerading as a 42-minute musical comedy: Dr.  Whedon, Joss (2008) Musical / Comedy [NR] Horrible plots to join the Evil League of Evil and win the girl at the same time — if only Captain Hammer doesn't get in the way. With great songs (Greek chorus included) and hilarious dialog, it is exactly what we expect from the team that gave us Buffy's "Once More With Feeling" episode, with an ending true to its subversive aim.

 Dollhouse 7 A mysterious organization promises a big payoff for people who Whedon, Joss (2009) Thriller [TV-14] contract to be "dolls": humans imprinted with fake memories and personalities for whatever purposes their clients desire. It is exactly as creative as you would expect from a Joss Whedon series, but it's more serious tone begs comparison to his earlier series. W

 When Stand Up Stood Out 7 A history of the Boston comedy scene that produced Steven Wright, Solomita, Fran (2003) Documentary [R] Janeane Garofalo, Denis Leary and several other other comics. It's an interesting picture of how fame can happen (or not), but it's a little skimpy on the actual comedy.

 When We Were Kings 9 The story of the famous "Rumble in the Jungle" pitting the flamboyant Gast, Leon (1996) Documentary [PG] Muhammad Ali against the (then) taciturn George Foreman, this delves deeply into the way their personalities, strengths and weaknesses came into play in determining the outcome. One leaves convinced not only of Ali's greatness, but of the complex reasons for it.

 Whiplash 9 Two obsessive personalities go up against each other at a prestigious Chazelle, Damien (2014) Drama [R] music school's jazz program, in this compulsively watchable meditation (with cursing) on the nature of genius and how it surfaces.

 Whiskey Tango Foxtrot 8 Tina Fey balances drama and humor in this adaptation of a female Ficarra, G & Requa, J (2016) Comedy / Drama reporter's memoir of covering the Afghan War. [R]  White God 7 The abandonment of a mixed-breed dog in the middle of a Hungarian Mundruczó, Kornél (2014) Adventure [UR] city is the catalyst for this bit of magical realism about dogs turning the tables on humans.

 Who is Cletis Tout? 7 Somewhat unpredictable and often very funny B movie and homage Wiel, Chris Ver (2002) Crime / Comedy [R] to classic Holywood.

 Who Killed Bambi? 7 Although this tale of menace in a teaching hospital is creepily Marchand, Gilles (2004) Thriller [NR] effective, its characters clearly don't have the brains to be in their chosen profession.

 Whole Nine Yards, The 8 A retired hit man moves next to a dentist with a less-than-loving wife. Lynn, Jonathan (2000) Comedy [R] Hmmm. Great fun with some well-cast talent.

 Widow of Saint-pierre, The 8 Absorbing period drama about murder and redemption. Leconte, Patrice (2001) Drama [R]

 Wilby Wonderful 8 Although some of the actors do not quite disappear into their roles, Macivor, Daniel (2004) Drama / Comedy [R] this is a amusing drama about bed- and back-room shenigans on a tourist island where the locals suffer more than one form of snobbishness.

 Wild and Wonderful Whites of 8 A year-long portrait of a notorious "hillbilly" family in Boone Country, West Virginia, The West Virginia that mixes fatalistic humor, self-destruction and tap dancing, all set against a coal-mining culture that breeds a lack of Nitzberg, Julien (2009) Documentary [NR] interest in one's all-too-fragile future. Funny, intense and sometimes scary. If you live in the South, you know at least one family like this. The NR rating means "R" here.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. 158 Jim's Video List W  Wild At Heart 7 The meandering tale of an accidental killer, his oh-so-in-love girl, her  Lynch, David (1990) Thriller [R] monster of a mother and other assorted miscreants as only David Lynch can conceive them. If you like Lynch's brand of weirdness, you'll probably like this one.  Wild Tales 9 Six cynically funny tales of how karma works and how people create  Szifrón, Damián (2014) Comedy / Black [R] it...and occasionally balance it out. A "can't miss" if you like observant foreign comedies with teeth.  Wild Things 8 A steamy, twisting, often subtly satirical film about a crime of passion  McNaughton, John (1998) Thriller / Film Noir [R] among the well-to-do and their toadies in South Florida. It manages to tell a classically sleazy noir tale while it parodies itself at the same time. DO NOT miss the closing credits, which put the logic into the plot twists.

 Willow 8 A classic, against-type quest story in which little people prove they Howard, Ron (1988) Adventure [PG] have the right stuff to save the kingdom. We've seen that theme before (although it would be another score of years before Hobbits got their due), but this riff on it is highly entertaining.

 Win Win 9 The lives of a losing wrestling coach / social service lawyer and the McCarthy, Thomas (2011) Drama [R] family of one of his clients intersect and disrupt the orbits of all involved. Another winning comedy drama from a director who knows how to put people together and see what happens.

 Wings of Desire 8 An angel assigned to protect the denizens of earth begins to fall in Wenders, Wim (1987) Fantasy [PG-13] love with their ability to live. A beautiful mood piece that needs a contemplative setting in which to blossom.

 Winter Passing 8 A damaged young woman is sent on a mission by a publisher to Rapp, Adam (2005) Drama [R] retrieve some valuable letters written by her father. For those in the mood for an entertaining story about very screwed up people, this will fill the bill.

 Winter's Bone 9 A "hillbilly noir" about a girl looking for the crank-cooking father who Granik, Debra (2010) Thriller [R] bailed on them in all senses of the word. In an unrelentingly bleak Missouri setting, it uses the inherent, unpredictable scariness of its completely authentic characters to raise the tension to a level most noirs can only hope to reach.  Witch, The 8 Low key, atmospheric and existentially horrifying, this tale of a Puritan Eggers, Robert (2015) Horror [R] family's descent into their worst nightmare puts you right into 17th century religious paranoia as effectively as "Alien" did for people trapped in spaceships.

 Witches of East End 7 Well-written take on the somewhat overexposed "teen witches" genre Various (2013) Fantasy [TV-14] that mixes family spats with humor and horror while venturing to the edge more than a few times. It has appeal for both sexes, but one thing clearly marks it as biased towards the female sex: The shoes. Oh, god, the shoes.

 With a Friend Like Harry 8 French thriller about a family's chance encounter with a old Moll, Dominik (2001) Thriller [R] schoolmate (maybe) who just wants to help (perhaps) and who may not be what he seems (oh yeah).

 Withnail and I 8 As Kerouac had his Neal Cassady, Bruce Robinson found that if you Robinson, Bruce (1987) Comedy / Black [R] want to write something real and profoundly funny, it helps to have a friend like Vivian MacKerrell, the inspiration for profoundly self-destructive, yet belligerently free spirit Withnail, who leads this

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some. Jim's Video List 159 W  Withnail and I film's protagonist on a sharply written, alcohol-fueled adventure to an uncle's country house. Be sure to use subtitles to avoid missing some great lines.

 Witness for the Prosecution 9 A barrister takes what he thinks is one last case, defending a Wilder, Billy (1957) Mystery [PG] happy-go-lucky ne'er-do-well from the gallows. The cast does an excellent job of using their skills — and our preconceptions — to weave a twisting tale of betrayal.

 Wizard of Oz, The 10 A girl gets brained by a loose window in a tornado, makes friends, Fleming, Victor (1939) Fantasy [G] kills two witches (accidentally) and other fun stuff. A classic piece of Hollywood filmmaking, with special effects that are surprising effective for the periodl

 Wolf of Wall Street, The 8 The rise and fall of a Wall Street hustler. Although it is essentially Scorsese, Martin (2014) Drama [R] non-judgemental (the audience will perform that service) the story it tells is continuously fascinating.

 Woman, a Gun and a Noodle 7 This somewhat vaudevillian remake of the Coen brothers' "Blood Shop, A Simple" lays on slapstick that competes with the fatalistic noir tone that eventually takes over, however Zhang's eye-popping movie's Zhang, Yimou (2009) Crime [TV-14] visuals are still a treat.

 Wonder Boys 8 A rambling but very funny day-in-the-life of a uninspired college Hanson, Curtis (2000) Comedy / Drama [R] professor, his desperate book editor and a brooding young student author that manages to make extreme quirkiness look natural.

 Wonderstruck 8 Two stories intertwine, one of a deaf and mute girl in 1927, whose Haynes, Todd (2017) Drama [PG] separated parents have left her feeling orphaned and a orphaned boy in modern times. This is an emotionally resonant story about building families when you've lost your own, leavened with a bit of a mystery and humor.

 Woo 7 (1998) Comedy / Romance [R]

 Woodstock 9 The classic you-are-there documentary loads up with as music that Wadleigh, Michael (1970) Documentary [R] could fit without losing the side story that gives you the true flavor of the most famous festival on Earth.

 Wordplay 9 A documentary focusing on the personalities, techniques and the love Creadon, Patrick (2006) Documentary [PG] (addiction?) of those who have been sucked into the world of big-time crossword puzzles. It's hard to believe that such a thing can hold your interest so well, but the details make it work extremely well.

 World War Z 8 Although the book apparently contains material for several movies, as Forster, Marc (2013) Sci-fi / Thriller [PG-13] a summer entertainment, this tale of an ex-U.N. investigators getting roped into tracking down the cause of a rabies-like plague is very effective.

 World's End, The 9 The less you know about this—a story of old buddies trying the Wright, Edgar (2013) Comedy / Sci-fi [R] recreate a truncated pub crawl from their school days—the better. You only need to have continued faith in the team of Simon Pegg & Edgar Wright.

 Wreck-it Ralph 8 The "bad guy" in a Donkey Kong-style video game seeks acceptance Moore, Rich (2012) Comedy / Action [PG] and a chance to be the hero for once. Well-written comedy that is great fun for anyone who has spent time with the classic arcade games.

 Wrestler, The 9 This character study of a professional wrestler who must learn to live Aronofsky, Darren (2008) Drama [R] with his failing body is dominated by Mickey Rourke, augmented by a no-holds-barred performance by Marisa Tomei. X

 X-Files, The 9 The classic mix of sci-fi + horror + humor + government conspiracy + Carter, Chris (and others) (1993) Sci-fi [TV-14] unrequited platonic relationship was hard to beat. There have been attempts to replicate its success, but no one can truly duplicate Mulder, Scully, the Smoking Man and the Lone Gunmen nor the episodes that played off their characters. X-MEN

 X-Men 8 Mutants hide from the world in a special school, while a renegade Singer, Bryan (2000) Sci-fi [PG-13] plots to eliminate "normals". Good action flick with some added depth from its underlying theme about the effects of prejudice, starting with the opening scene.

 X2: X-men United 8 The continuing adventures of the X-Men and good example of a Singer, Bryan (2003) Sci-fi [PG-13] sequel that is a bit better than its well-reviewed predecessor.

 X-Men: The Last Stand 7 The final chapter of a trilogy that didn't quite announce itself as such Ratner, Brett (2006) Adventure [PG-13] does not add much to the earlier entries' character development but uses it to give the action, which goes where feel-good movies do not usually tread, a bit more poignancy. Never fear, there is a future for the series, especially if you watch through the credits.

 X-men Origins: Wolverine 7 The origin story of The Wolverine, starting in the 19th century. Hood, Gavin (2009) Sci-fi [PG-13]

 X-men: First Class 8 Well-told origin story for the X-Men uses a set of excellent actors to Vaughn, Matthew (2011) Sci-fi [PG-13] elevate this above the average comic book affair.

 Deadpool 9 Not quite a superhero as much as a superasshole, Deadpool cuts a Miller, Tim (2016) Action / Comedy [R] bloody path through an assortment of bad guys in this origin story that conveniently ignores the events in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine." That's good, since it made possible this hilariously foul-mouthed movie (the discrepancy is resolved in the first post-credits seqences of "Deadpool 2" in highly satisfying fashion).

 Logan 9 Although it ultimately leaves an opening for a new crop, this final Mangold, James (2017) Sci-fi / Thriller [R] chapter of the original X-Men saga does not leave any of its story potential undeveloped. II makes room for heartfelt drama by compressing its action into concentrated, blood-spewing savagery. This one stands with "The Dark Knight" and "Jessica Jones" as an example of what the genre can achieve. x

 xXx 7 A Bond-like actioner with stunts that are a bit too gratuitous is saved Cohen, Rob (2002) Action [PG-13] by the bad-boy teddy bear qualities of Vin Diesel in the lead, plus villains made from sturdier-than-usual cardboard.

 Y Tu Mamá También 9 Two young men take to the road with an older woman. Who is Cuarón, Alfonso (2002) Drama [NR] seducing whom? Noted for its frank approach to sexuality and its steadily deepening revelations.

 Y. P. F. 7 Observant but bawdy comedy in five separate stories about four Gero, Martin (2007) Comedy [UR] couples and one threesome who talk their way through a night of lovemaking, or something like it.

 Yellow Sea, The 8 A taxi driver in a desperate situation gets an unsavory opportunity to Na, Hong-jin (2010) Thriller [R] solve his problems and try to find the wife who has apparently abandoned him. This is a modern thriller with high tension action scenes that nevertheless comes with a classic noir sensibility, as a hapless everyman is caught in the gears of two crime machines.  Yes Men, The 8 Often hilarious record of two jokers who pull off elaborate stunts as  Ollman, Dan & Price, Sarah (2004) Documentary fake members of international business organizations. [R]

 Ying 8 A king and his people may lose their homeland unless they can win a Zhang, Yimou (2018) Action / Martial Arts [NR] decisive battle against a formidable oppressor. Without skimping on impressive action, this has an almost noir quality.

 You Can Count on Me 8 A comedy drama about a strong sister and a wayward brother, that Lonergan, Kenneth (2000) Drama / Comedy [R] offers no happy ending, but manages to make us feel good anyway.

 You Kill Me 8 A family intervention sends an alcoholic failure to dry out in San Dahl, John (2007) Crime / Comedy [R] Francisco, but his "family" are mobsters and the job at which he is failing is killing people. A well-acted, and entertaining black comedy.

 You Were Never Really Here 9 A war vet and fixer is assigned to retrieve a politician's kidnapped Ramsay, Lynne (2018) Thriller [R] daughter and finds a compelling reason to leave a trail of blood behind him. Although this sounds like a typical revenge thriller, it is packed with psychological depth and a hypnotic visual style that actually minimizes the violence. In the end, one must ask who is rescuing whom?

 You're the Worst 9 There is a trend in TV to make shows about horrible people who Falk, Stephen (2014) Comedy / Drama [TV-MA] make you cringe and never seem to learn anything. Well, forget "The Office." Forget "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." This is the scintillating exception, a show about two people who slowly, in fits, starts and interuptions, and backward steps, rescue each other from their worst tendencies—and yet finds a way to end well without becoming a syrupy morality tale. Not to be missed.

 You've Got Mail 7 Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan miss the connection and miss the Ephron, Nora (1998) Comedy / Romance [PG] connection until they make the connection in this remake of Lubtisch's "The Shop Around the Corner." The ultimate failing to meet cute.

 Young Adam 8 Hard-bitten, fatalistic period piece (early 20th century) about Mackenzie, David (2003) Drama [R] bargemen love and survivial, with a bit of a murder mystery to spice things up.

 Young and Prodigious T. S. 8 A young inventor from a very different family leaves home on a road Spivet, The trip to claim an award—and deal with an unresolved personal loss. Anyone familiar with Jeunet's work will anticipate visual delights from Jeunet, Jean-Pierre (2013) Adventure [PG] his treatment of the American West, but may not expect the emotional impact that also awaits.

 Young At Heart 9 This touching, sometimes grim but continuously inspiring film follows Walker, S & George, S (2007) Documentary [PG] the rehearsals and performances of a chorus group with an average age in the 80's who specialize in SERIOUS rock and punk repertoir.

 Young Detective Dee: Rise of the 7 Something of an origin story for the good detective. Although not Sea Dragon quite as good as "Mystery of the Phantom Flame," this still provides a lot of fun and is more proof that the Chinese are capable of producing Tsui, Hark (2013) Fantasy / Action [PG-13] popular entertainments that fit into the larger adventure genre instead of martial arts.

 Young Frankenstein 8 One of Brooks best movies, this send -up of the Universal monster Brooks, Mel (1974) Comedy [PG] brand mixes plenty of Brooks's shtick with sight (and sound) gags that hit the mark. Z

 Zathura 8 Although it seems to borrow heavily from the same author's Jumanji, Favreau, Jon (2005) Adventure / Comedy [PG] this tale of two sparring brothers who stumble into a very dangerous game delivers a worthwhile load of comedy and surprises.

 Zatoichi, the Blind Swordsman: 8 Big-screen version of a Japanese TV classic in which a impishly wise Kitano, Takeshi (2004) Adventure [R] blind man carves up a whole village of gangsters, chop-chop.

 Zero Dark Thirty 10 The hunt for Osama bin Laden is recreated as a police procedural Bigelow, Kathryn (2012) Drama / Action [R] with disturbing realism, ending with a mesmerizing flight into Pakistan that will provoke some very complex emotional reactions.

 Zero Effect 7 (1998) Comedy [R]

 Zero Motivation 7 A few months in the lives of a group of very unmotivated women Lavie, Talya (2014) Comedy [UR] doing their required stint in the Israeli armed forces. An interesting break from the kinds of stories assocated with the Israeli military.

 Zodiac 8 A creepy retelling of the events surrounding Los Angeles' Zodiac Fincher, David (2007) Crime [PG-13] killer and the personalities who got a little too involved in it. Very engrossing for an adaptation of a true story. ZOMBIE

 Night of the Living Dead 8 This is the movie that defined the zombie genre—without actually Romero, George (1968) Horror [NR] using the word "zombie"—but with serendipitous twists about race and horror tropes that proved to be a gold mine for analysis of America in the late '60s. One of the "must see" movies for serious film buffs.

 Dawn of the Dead 8 Dropping us right into a news room covering the zombie menace, we Romero, George A. (1978) Sci-fi / Horror [R] follow four refugees to a mall where they build a hiding place. Bloody zombie fun marred only by characters who seem to be right out of 70's B movies...oh, wait...  Cemetery Man 7 This story of a cemetery keeper and his Igor-like assistant, whose  Soavi, Michele (1994) Horror / Comedy [R] duties include picking off pesky zombies. Consistently interesting with macabre humor and artistic references (google "magritte lovers"), including a main character based on a comics hero who was based on the actor who plays the main character.

 28 Days Later 8 An intelligent descendant of "Night of the Living Dead" but no one Boyle, Danny (2003) Horror [R] sleep walks through THIS one.

 Undead 7 A low-budget thriller that mixes a bit of The Blob's back story with Spierig, M. & Spierig, P. (2003) Horror [7] zombies. Well-edited shocker with a good dollop of comic relief throughout.

 Dawn of the Dead 8 Masterful addition to the zombie genre, with one of the first "fast" Snyder, Zack (2004) Horror [R] zombie types, some memorable non-zombies and no surfeit of well-constructed action pieces.  Shaun of the Dead 9 Wickedly funny take on zombie films that spends enough time  Wright, Edgar (2004) Comedy / Horror [R] building its characters to get you to care for them...well, most of them.

 Homecoming 8 Not a horror film as much as bludgeoning political satire. An Dante, Joe (2005) Comedy / Horror [R] entrenched political animal's unexpectedly sincere wish to an Iraq war casualty's mother leads to a very different kind of zombie movie. To say this is unkind to the Bush administration is like saying a big boot is unkind to roaches.  Fido 8 "Pleasantville" meets "Night of the Living Dead" in this very funny  Currie, Andrew (2006) Comedy / Horror [R] mash-up of zombie films and 1950's suburban culture, in which some of the zombies have more sensitivity than humans. Includes at least four standout comic performances.

 Pontypool 7 Set almost entirely inside a basement radio station, this fairly tense McDonald, Bruce (2008) Horror [R] zombie thriller takes a cue from Mercury Theater's "War of the Worlds," eschewing special effects for evocative dialog and claustrophobic paranoia.

 Deadgirl 7 Two teenage rejects discover a horror movie staple tied up in the Sarmiento, M & Harel, G (2008) Horror [UR] basement of an abandoned mental hospital—and pointing out that "this can't turn out well" is a severe understatement. To recommend this film risks the appearance of approving of what goes on in it, yet it is a classic example of setting up a situation and then showing the very unsettling but logical chain of events that result. Not a date movie.  Dead Snow 7 Eight friends on a winter vacation, perfect powder and Nazi zombies.  Wirkola, Tommy (2009) Horror / Comedy [R] What more could you ask for? For fans of shock, this overly messy entry into the genre adds both a bit of originality and humor while delivering the goods.  Revenant, The 7 A low-key but often very funny hybrid of the  Prior, D. Kerry (2009) Horror / Comedy [R] vampire/zombie/bromance genres that manages to avoid predictability at every corner turned by the plot.  Zombieland 8 An odd quadruple learns to survive and—maybe—trust each other  Fleischer, Ruben (2009) Comedy / Horror [R] during a zombie apocalypse. An often hilarious take on zombie tropes with some great twists in store.  Stake Land 8 A boy learns to survive in a post-apocalyptic world of  Mickle, Jim (2010) Horror [R] vampire-zombies. Although it gets frenetic enough, this is worth seeing just as much for the somber mood it creates, its not-quite-by-the-numbers plotting and the emotional resonance of its ending.

 Dead, The 8 Although it runs through the paces of a zombie flick in fairly straight Ford Brothers, The (2010) Horror [R] order, the African expanses in which it is set and its excruciatingly claustrophobic night scenes give this a twist that is worth watching.

 Juan of the Dead 7 An often very amusing mix of splatter horror and subversive comedy Brugués, Alejandro (2011) Horror / Comedy [R] that is also a testament to changing times in Cuba. Some of the jokes made at the expense of the Cuban regime are both dryly hilarious and worthy of a prison term in years past.

 Warm Bodies 9 For a genre involving slow-moving dead people, the zombie movie Levine, Jonathan (2013) Comedy / Horror [R] seems capable of generating all sorts of entertaining variations. This one manages to generate some cracking suspense even though it is actually a rather hopeful romantic comedy.  Dead Snow 2: Red Vs. Dead 7 Bursting with, shall we say, intestinal fortitude, this picks up where the Wirkola, Tommy (2014) Horror / Comedy [R] original left off and expands its horizons to include a U.S. zombie-fighting squad (which may explain why it seems to be in English this time). The bloodily goofy humor of the concept lumbers on, squashing any notions of good taste, like... like... well, like a Nazi zombie driving a tank.  Wyrmwood: Road of the Dead 7 This Australian zombie / road movie is good for some Saturday night  Roache-turner, Kiah (2014) Horror / Action [NR] chuckles and zombie action.  iZombie 9 After unknowingly partying with the undead, a woman on her way to  Ruggiero-Wright, D & Thomas, R (2015) Fantasy / becoming a surgeon is forced into a major career change: solving Comedy [TV-14] murders with the help of the victim's brains. Fans of "Buffy" and "Veronica Mars" will be more than satisfied by this intelligent, often hilarious show's high standards of smart, character-driven dialog.

 Train To Busan 9 A young father races to protect his daughter during a zombie Yeon, Sang-ho (2016) Horror [NR] outbreak in this absolutely top-notch horror-thriller. Doesn't break new ground as much as it grows a finely cultivated garden of horrific delights from the oft-tilled zombie genre.

 Girl With All the Gifts, The 8 Who knew that Glenn Close made a zombie film? Despite a surplus McCarthy, Colm (2016) Horror [R] in this particular genre, this tale of a pre-teen trying to survive a distinctly different threat to her life scores on both inventiveness, real thrills and well-integrated questions about ethics.  Anna and the Apocalypse 7 The less you know about this extremely enjoyable little horror film the  McPhail, John (2017) Horror / Musical [R] better. It does have a few angsty teenagers. And maybe some zombies. And someone might sing.  One Cut of the Dead 9 This making-of-a-zombie-movie zombie movie comedy is about as  Ueda, Shin'ichirô (2017) Comedy / Horror [UR] inventive and surprising as you can get. If a 30+ minute single take prelude before the opening credits roll isn't impressive enough, just wait.  Little Monsters 8 Need to see a zombie movie that defies expectations to the point that Forsythe, Abe (2019) Horror / Comedy [R] it beomes one of the feel-good movies of the year? This is one.  Zombieland: Double Tap 7 Our quartet of zombie killers are back, a bit weary of each other while Fleischer, Ruben (2019) Comedy / Horror [R] looking for a zombie-free oasis, and picking up more than a few very amusing characters along the way. Not bad for a sequel.  Dead Don't Die, The 7 True to the director's style, this improvised riff on a genre (zombies in  Jarmusch, Jim (2019) Horror / Comedy [R] case you did not pick up on that) is funny and unpredictable while not necessarily being to everyone's taste (zombie movie fans, included). Still, this is one of his most accessible films.

 Zoolander 7 Stiller, Ben (2001) Comedy [PG-13]

 Zootopia 8 A comedic film about sentient animals becomes an effective vehicle Howard, B, Moore, R & Bush, J (2016) Comedy for discussing racism with kids. [PG] [

 [REC] 8 A TV news reporter and her cameraman get trapped in an apartment Balagueró, Jaume (2007) Horror [R] building under increasingly frightening conditions. Starts relatively slowly, but steadily builds to a real pants-wetter.

Something completely Foreign language Animated (but not Family oriented fare May definitely push  different. (dubbed or subtitled) necessarily a "cartoon" ). the limits for some.