Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare
Cinematic Sommelier
8.2
I’m biased. This one gets one big Smoley Oley from this critic. One of my first favorite movies, with my first crush (Darla), before I made it to Kindergarten and met the real life one.
This story of brotherhood, youth, and overcoming adversity with the help of your pals is what makes it truly timeless. So many classic lines, so many great performances. All time greatness put to film. Throw it back to the nice guy getting the girl, and winning the race by a hair.
7.2
EMILIO! A solid Disney original. Underdog story with a hot shot learning humility, family drama, and a group of misfits becoming a kickass hockey team. This one has it all. Kind of miss when the NHL team had the cool logo and was owned by Disney. The 90’s were a wild time. Definitely give this one a shot.
8.3
One of the all-time great trilogies. I’ll say it. And not just because I was enjoying a bottle of the subject of these films myself while viewing. Have to test run the professional tasting methods yourself to use at future parties to impress fellow connoisseurs. This series brought a great depth to the field of sommeliers and the history of wine as a whole. Amazing culture to dive into and explore, and these films do so in a very reverent fashion through the lenses of the experts and pillars of the business. Very well done. Cheers!
7.3
Came recommended by a friend. Didn’t disappoint! The re-telling of the legendary Paris tasting that out California/American wine in the map retold through the talents of some of Hollywood’s best turns out to be a pretty great film. Alan Rickman shines as sommelier Steven Spurrier as he ventures to the US to prove that French wines will forever be the gold standard. Beautiful set pieces and an intriguing story. Pairs well with a bottle of the good stuff. Cheers!
7.2
One of the best sports movies since “McFarland” and “When the Game Stands Tall.” A heartfelt tale of redemption for really every character in some way. The lens of a sports centered film lends itself so well to delving into the human condition and redemption, it’s almost always a pleasure to watch. Great performances for all involved. Ben Affleck revisits his washed up mopey drunk Bruce Wayne, only this time as a former basketball star turned coach. He really nails it. Very enjoyable, well done film.
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 