peferguson Reviews

The Dig (2021)

One Of The Best of The Year

[9/10 · 21 February 2021]

"The Dig" 2021 A made for Netflix period piece, The Dig recalls those dark days as Great Britain prepares to go to war with Hitler's military machine. An amateur, yet skilled archaeologist, Basil Brown, is retained by the wealthy owner of the Sutton Hoo estate to allow him to search for ancient artifacts on her sprawling farm. Mrs. Edith Pretty rankles The British Museum's curator, by selecting Mr. Brown university over degreed archeologists supported by him. Basil enlists the estate's farm staff and the young son of Mrs. Pretty, Robert, to begin searching for the treasure trove. Her handsome brother Rory (Johnny Flynn) joins the dig and falls in love with Mrs. Pretty's assistant, the lovely (and very married) Peggy Piggott (Lily James). A substantial sub-plot is developed by this entanglement. Mr. Brown's surprising, father-like mentoring of Robert, is a wonderful second sub-plot, that adds an endearing twist to the story. Clearly one of the best films of the year, Aussie Simon Stone directs a beautifully flowing tribute to Brown. Stone is best known as an actor, but received praise for 2015's The Daughter, his first directorial outing, which he also wrote. The Dig is a huge cinematic success; Mike Eley's eye for the simplicity of the land and delicacy of the English countryside is praise-worthy. Stone and Eley both have earned Oscar considerations. Clearly this is Ralph Fiennes tour-de-force. He makes one genuinely care for his Basil Brown. Fiennes' portrayal of Brown's steadfast allegiance to Mrs. Pretty and her son, really adds to the re-telling of this true story. Cary Mulligan as Edith Pretty is wonderful, as always, playing a character who was fifteen years older than herself. In this time of the pandemic, The Dig made yet another night stuck at home enjoyable and more interesting. Do yourself a favor and seek out this cinematic joy.

Nomadland (2020)

Moving Character Study

[8/10 · 20 February 2021]

Paul's Movie Reviews "Nomadland" 2020 Currently in theaters and streaming on Hulu, Chloe Zhao's depiction of an American sub-culture offers an eye-opening character study starring the always wonderful Frances McDormand (Fargo, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri). Based on the non-fictional account of the same name by Jessica Bruder, the film chronicles the "workamper" movement, loosely organized legions of temporary employees travelling the states to fill largely seasonal jobs. One will think of the depression-era "Oakies" and hobos, who rode the rails to pick-up work wherever they could find it. I first became aware of these folks after reading two magazine articles in 2017. The first was about how Amazon hired multitudes of nomadic temps for its distribution centers. They worked ten hour shifts at $11.25 per, plus overtime. Grueling work for the AARP gang, walking miles every day on concrete warehouse floors. The other column focused more on victims of the Great Recession of 2007; retirement aged citizens who sold everything that they had left to purchase RV's and travel the country. Many were unfortunate participants in the "upside down" housing mortgage debacle, while others lost their life savings in the stock market crash. The real stars of Nomadland are actual worker-gypsies turned actors. They include Linda May, who was the focus of the original book. Also, Bob Wells the workcamper guru, whose "Rubber Tramp Rendezvous" weekends provide training and survival techniques for attendees and Swankie, Frances McDormand's "Fern's" 75-year-old best friend. Although the film plods along slowly, it is never boring. It is Zhao's second-best outing; the first being the widely praised "The Rider" from 2017. The Chinese born director is gaining a large following and should be watched for her future endeavors. I recommend that you see both movies.

The Accountant (2016)

A Complex Drama and a Portrayal of an Autistic Savamt

[8/10 · 1 October 2017]

"The Accountant" (2016) If you enjoyed the savant aspect of "Rain Man" and the math genius portrayal in "Good Will Hunting", you will probably like "The Accountant". Throw in several sub-plots, and you've got complex story with some faults, but an overall pleasing experience. Director Gavin O'Connor ("Pride and Glory" and "Warrior") weaves an intricate story of a man, born with Asperger's Syndrome, who uses his talent to become an exclusive financial consultant and auditor. His childhood exposure to martial arts, as required by his militaristic father, prepares him for a unique side-career. A very good cast includes Anna Kendrick, J.K. Simmons, John Lithgow, Jeffery Tambor, John Bernthal, and Jean Smart. In the title role, Ben Affleck gives a restrained performance, showing a victim of autism correctly. When he has to, he morphs into his violent side, as honed by his childhood training. The problem with this film is a matter of timing and flow. At times, especially in the scenes devoted to the accounting and applied math sub-plots, tend to get bogged down in unnecessary minutia. I gave "The Accountant" an overall score of 77/100; good, but not great. My wife enjoyed it more than me; this probably points to her training and career in the subject matter. Available on DVD, Blue Ray and streaming services.

An American Rhapsody (2001)

Wonderful Gem!

[9/10 · 12 September 2017]

After it's release in 2001, sixteen years later I "discovered this gem quite by accident. It is an amazing film; so well written and performed. Ms. Kinski is wonderful in this, as well as is Tony Goldwyn. A very young Scarlett Johansson shows the talent that she has exuded in future years. I highly recommend this wonderful movie!

Okja (2017)

Best Pig Movie Since "Babe"

[8/10 · 5 July 2017]

Okja (2017 – Netflix) What's the best pig movie since "Babe"? Easily, it's the new Netflix release, "Okja", a fairy tale with an ominous message. Rated MA-TV, this film is clearly not for young children, due to language and violence. But, ten-year-old's and up will enjoy this, especially with the scatological humor coming from the star's frequent flatulism and ability to poop on demand. While, at times a bit sophomoric for adults, the flick holds its own, gaining from an excellent cast, terrific CGI and good direction. The plot line is set in the future when a driven daughter of a billionaire businessman decides to "solve" the world's hunger problem by cloning "super pigs", that are genetically engineered to produce enormous, exceptionally nutritious products. Tilda Swinton is cast as Lucy Mirando, who stops at nothing to realize her ten- year quest, with enormous profits at the end of the rainbow. Jake Gyllenhaal is unrecognizable as Johnny Wilcox, a sort of smarmy Jack Hannah, who is employed by Lucy to lend credibility to her plan. The always wonderful Shirley Henderson is Lucy's efficient and mindful aide, Jennifer. As soon as Ms. Henderson opens her mouth, you will immediately recognize her unique voice; think "Moaning Myrtle" from the Harry Potter series. Twelve cloned piglets are assigned to be raised by the best farmers all over the world, each competing for the "best pig" title and a generous monetary award. The plot keys in on teenage Mija and her grandfather, who are rearing the female Okja in the mountains of Korea. Mija and Okja are inseparable; she sleeps with the swine that is the size of an adult rhinoceros! All hell breaks loose when Okja is declared the winner and Mija is heartbroken when she is told that the pig will be shipped off to New York City for the awards ceremony. A fringe group of PETA wanna- be's, headed by Paul Dano's Jay and assisted by Red (Lily Collins), move in to save Okja from Lucy's dastardly deeds. The real stars of the show are the amazing Okja, as created by the VFX supervisor, Eric De Boer, who won the Oscar for "Life of Pi, and Ahn Seo-hyun as Mija, who won me over as a character that I truly cared about. If you subscribe to Netflix, take the time to watch this fantasy with a message.

Fargo (2014–2024)

Fargo Season 3 - 2017

[8/10 · 17 June 2017]

Fargo TV Series (2017 Season 3) Every episode of this acclaimed show, presented on FX, starts with the disclaimer, "This is a true story. At the request of the survivors, the names have been changed. Out of respect for the dead, the rest has been told exactly as it occurred." Well, that is nothing more than a teaser, made up by the producers. I've researched this as much as possible and every fact check I've read agrees that the show is not based on 100% true events. Not even close! In comparison with season one, which was fantastic and season two, which was even better, this year doesn't quite measure up. I still recommend it; it's a great adventure into the quirky world of Fargo, which requires all of your attention and concentration to every nuance of each script. The twists and turns almost require that notes be taken to sort out the multiple, over-lapping plots and the cast of characters. There will be no spoilers here; that would be sacrilegious and a disservice to the watchers. Currently, eight episodes have been shown on FX on Wednesdays at 10:00 PM EDT/9 CDT. You can dial up the first eight on demand and binge watch if you like; also available on-line. The cast is terrific, starring film actor Ewen McGregor, who plays dual roles of twin brothers. The wonderful Carrie Coon (HBO's "The Leftovers") will remind you of Frances McDormand who portrayed the police chief in the original film. Coon really shines. Mary Elizabeth Winstead ("10 Cloverfield Lane", "Braindead") is both alluring and gritty in her role as a small time grifter. David Thewlis, the British actor known for "Anomalisa" and the new "Wonder Woman" flick, plays the creepiest of scoundrels here. Michael Stuhlbarg ("Boardwalk Empire, "Trumbo") is both funny and angst- ridden as the accountant, Sy Feltz. This series fulfills my need for the unusual, thought-provoking and intelligent TV in a sea of vomit that is broadcast television and the public's weird fascination with cartoon character big screen fare. My hope is that FX continues this series with a season four in 2018.

Moonlight (I) (2016)

Good, Not Great

[8/10 · 12 June 2017]

"Moonlight" (2016) When I rented this DVD, I was excited to sit in my recliner, in my "man-cave" to watch the Best Picture of last year, according to The Academy Awards and The Golden Globes. I had read so much positive hype about this film; Metacritic gave it a score of 99. Geez Louise, that rarely happens! I knew very little about the movies, including most of its cast and crew. So, I went into "Moonlight" with pretty much an open mind, but came out of utterly confused; this could not have been the same film that I was prepared to see.

Now don't get me wrong, it was a fine film. Did it deserve the "best picture awards"? Did it earn a 99 score by Metacritic? My answer is no. Let me tell you why. The first one-third of the film was nearly flawless. Seeing the life of a nine-year-old son of a crack-addict mother got me emotionally involved. Poor Chiron endured terrible treatment by his peers and got no parental support until a drug dealer and his girlfriend took him in and provided some nurturing, though not enough.

The film really bogged down in the middle when Chiron was a teen in trouble. The Miami ghetto was not kind to a black, gay man, but this was conveyed to the audience in a disjointed manner. I needed more organization and development of Chiron's relationship with Kevin.

The last one-third failed to make a realistic statement and the life messages sort of "petered-out" here. Because of this, the movie felt longer than its 1 hour & 51 minutes.

Lastly, I am almost embarrassed to comment about this, but I feel like "Moonlight's" best film award was an atonement by the academy to show penance for its past failures to recognize diversity in film-making. I'm reminded by the times that the academy awards Oscars in empathy to a nominee, (he's getting up in years and this is probably his last hurrah), or (she's the bone-fide front-runner, we just must give it to her for her years of service to the industry, which I term as the Meryl Streep 'Gushing Statue')

I do recommend that you see "Moonlight" and make up your own mind. Oh, and by the way, I gave it an 82 rating on Metacritic.

Fences (2016)

Superior Acting Skills on Display

[10/10 · 11 June 2017]

"Fences" (2016) I readily admit that I am an "acting addict". In other words, I greatly admire the craft of acting when it is responsible for making a good film into a great film. "Fences" is an example of this.

Based on the play by August Wilson and directed by Denzell Washington, "Fences" will never appeal to those of us who relish those action-packed, comic book spectacles that dominate the industry now. That said, "Fences" was shot as a play: intricate scenes, minimal locations, emphasis on words and acting. Never boring, frequently riveting, it presents itself as a venue for all thought-provoking matters of the heart, as well as the nuances of growing up black in the urban setting of Pittsburg in the 1950's.

So as not to ruin the experience, I won't get into specifics, but I will say that this film cemented my opinion that Viola Davis is one the finest actors of our time and earned the best actress Oscar, easily beating a quartet of wonderful nominees. Her performance was chilling; this is what her craft is all about. "Fences" was also nominated for the best picture award.

With Denzell Washington at the helm, the film really delivered August Wilson's messages. I am miffed that Denzell was not nominated for the best director award. But, Mr. Washington's acting chops were on full display here and he delivered another notch in his belt of many superlative roles. Denzell rightfully earned a best actor Oscar nomination last year for "Fences".

The cast was rounded out by Russell Hornsby (Grimm, Suits), Mykelti Williamson (Forrest Gump, CSI: NY, Justified), Stephen Henderson (Manchester-By-The-Sea, Lincoln) and Jovan Adepo (The Leftovers, NCIS: Los Angeles) - all wonderful.

My only complaint, a minor one, is the length of the movie; at 2 hours, 19 minutes, it does tend to drag a in the middle of the film. Rated PG-13 for language. Appropriate for teens; in fact, a great discussion film for parents and their older kids. There's a lot going on here that teens and all of us adults could learn from.

Available on DVD and Blue ray. Should be on-demand from Netflix, cable companies and on premium channels, soon.

The Founder (2016)

How Fast-Food Was Invented

[8/10 · 10 June 2017]

"The Founder" (2016) Many of us know the story of how Ray Kroc acquired McDonalds, but this film really delves into how the McDonalds brothers re- engineered the restaurant industry and invented "fast food". These guys were geniuses. Their vision and persistence was extraordinary. Unfortunately, Richard and Maurice simply didn't have the business savvy to turn a revolutionary food service location into a national enterprise. Enter Ray Kroc, who was highly motivated and had the guts to go "all in", mortgaging his home to develop McDonalds into the state-of-the art international franchise it became.

Highly entertaining, "The Founder" is a well written, small budget release, rated PG-13 for language. Appropriate for teens, "The Founder" is a good family night-at-the-movies venue. Nothing too offensive; your average 10-year-old has probably already incorporated into his peer-jargon!

The cast is great. Michael Keaton as Kroc shines; I've always considered him as one of my favorites. Under-rated and so versatile, Keaton makes you believe in Kroc's vision and aspirations. Laura Dern plays Kroc's lonely and gloomy wife, Ethel. Nick Offerman and John Carroll Lynch really steal the show with their portrayal as the McDonald's brothers. Two very fine character actors at the top of their game! Patrick Wilson has a minor role as Rollie Smith, a restaurateur, who funds a franchise for his wife. She turns out to be totally committed to the fast food game and ends up being Ray Kroc's love interest. Linda Cardellini is beautiful and alluring as Joan Smith. Watch for Kate Kneeland as Kroc's efficient and vibrant secretary, June Martino.

Currently available on DVD and Blue ray, "The Founder" is well worth seeking out. Set in the 1950's, it was very cool to see what mid- America was all about. Cute car hops on roller skates, Hudson automobiles, men in hats, ties and suits, women in sun dresses and boys with crew-cuts.

Separate Lies (2005)

Plot Twists Abound

[9/10 · 17 October 2016]

Separate Lies (British – 2005) It was 1:30 AM CDT and I could not sleep. So I did the worst possible thing, according to sleep experts and turned on the TV. After a brief search of on demand fare, I noticed the British film starring two actors whom I greatly admire: Tom Wilkinson and Emily Watson. My interest was also tweaked by the fact that this was Julian Fellowes directorial debut. He is a much lauded writer and actor, known best for Downton Abbey, Gosford Park and From Time to Time. James and Anne Manning (Wilkinson & Watson) have recently moved into a country manor to get away from the city life, after living for years in a flat in London. A well-known and highly regarded barrister, David works long hours and arrives home after a train commute. Their marriage appears to suffer as Anne longs for a more social life, while James is curmudgeon and prefers isolation and rest from a stressful occupation. The onset of an accident involving a cyclist, who was the Manning's housekeeper's husband, and a large, black SUV, invades the Manning's lives. This deepens the plot-line of the film and an acquaintance, Tom Bule is implicated, well-played by Rupert Everett. There are some unexpected twists and turns, as the involvement of the Manning's cleaner, Maggie (Linda Bassett) becomes an imposing factor. A solid adult drama, Separate Lives requires attention to details. One is reminded of Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot in the steady police work of Inspector Marshall (David Harewood). For those of us who tire easily of super hero and CGI laden cartoon- like flicks, Separate Lives satisfies the inner soul.

Matinee (1993)

Family Fun

[7/10 · 15 October 2016]

"Matinee" (1993) I recently happened upon this likable comedy directed by Joe Dante (Gremlins, Innerspace, The Howling) and set in 1961 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The young protagonist Gene, a recent resident of Key West, FL, finds himself in a small community with no friends, unhappy and forlorn. When word gets out that his Navy dad is on a ship blockading Cuba, he becomes something of a high school celebrity, who gains acceptance by a small circle of friends. Eventually he hooks up with Sandra (Lisa Jakub – Mrs. Doubtfire), who he admires because of her refusal to participate in a school A-bomb drill (stop, drop, cover your head with your hands), because she protests in a scientifically correct manner: the blast will vaporize you or you'll die from radiation exposure. Enter Lawrence Woolsey (John Goodman) a Hollywood horror movie mogul, who's in town to promote his latest release, "Mant", enlisting Gene's help to make the flick's debut a must-see local event. Actress Ruth Corday, played by Cathy Moriarity (Raging Bull) is Lawrence's girlfriend, in a hilarious, sardonic side-job as the theater nurse who makes all movie patrons sign a medical waiver, "in case you have a heart attack while watching the movie". A litany of great character actors, round out the cast: Kellie Martin (Becca on TV's Life Goes On), Jesse White (Harvey), Kevin McCarthy (B- movie horror king of the 50's & 60s'), Director/Actor John Sayles (Return of Seacaucus Seven) and William Schallert (The Patty Duke Show). Simon Fenton does a fine job as Gene, but the stellar attraction is John Goodman, who is one of the most talented actors in Hollywood, but is perhaps the most underrated. This is currently playing on Starz broadcast & on demand and is available on DVD. This is a good family film and will bring back baby- boomers' memories of the cold war and the "Red Scare".

I Smile Back (2015)

Prepare To Be Surprised

[7/10 · 27 March 2016]

Laney (Sarah Silverman) is part of what appears to be a wonderful family; a doting husband, two lovely kids living in a large, beautiful home. Those thoughts led me to the truth of it all as, Laney traveled into her personal abyss. The surprise is Silverman's performance. Best known for lighter, comedic fare: "Who's The Caboose?", "School of Rock" and "Wreck It Ralph", Silverman delivers an award worthy performance. I was fixated on her talents displayed here. Who knew that a primarily stand-up comedienne, could play such a difficult role so convincingly. Josh Charles and Thomas Sadowski are adequate in their roles, but this is Silverman's movie. Strictly for adult viewing and highly entertaining for those of us who are able to endure a dark drama, I do recommend "I Smile Back".

Crossing Lines (2013–2015)

Great locations and excellent international cast.

[9/10 · 8 March 2014]

I just finished watching all of season one of Crossing Lines on Netflix and it was a very enjoyable experience. Certainly a good change of pace from the standard crime dramas produced in the USA. The international cast is excellent and portray characters that all have personal pasts and vulnerabilities that make things interesting. I ended up really caring about each character.

Donald Sutherland fits in perfectly as the International Crime Court's patriarch and leader. William Fichtner is great as the former NYC police detective with a legendary reputation, but physical and psychological handicaps that now hamper his abilities to revive a fallen career.

Hopefully season #2 will be a reality; many loose ends need to be resolved that were left hanging after the finale of season #1.

Do yourself a favor and watch this series.

Amber Alert (2012)

Maddeningly absurd!

[2/10 · 30 November 2013]

Low budget; poor acting; ridiculously immature writing. I found myself bored to tears, yet irate at forcing myself to endure this lousy excuse of entertainment. Do yourself a favor and skip this one. This flick reminds me of a film school project completed by a substandard student. Not unfamiliar to "The Blair Witch Project", but a poor attempt at creating a "reality-based" storyline. Takes a lame swipe at the ineptitude of law enforcement's ability to respond to the witness's' manic reports of criminal activity.

Found myself and a co-viewer appalled at the sophomoric results. An exercise in futility, combined with a delusional script. Hated it!