7.6
A surprisingly cute tale of Halloween hijinks and hoodwinks, wrapped up in multiple age old coming-of-age stories. For what should have been a pretty by the numbers story, I found myself caught off guard by the laughs along the way. Strong acting and chemistry from the cast really added life to the film.
Category: Drama
7.8
As a fellow blogger, I could relate to the intimidation of a blank screen. It’s always a joy to witness a story about someone finding a passion to devote even a portion of their life to. An added bonus to see it impact the lives of others. Watching these parallel tales unfold, trials and tribulations abound, to emerge triumphant and changed as people, is a beautifully inspiring effect a film can have. Never can go wrong with Amy Adams.
8.5
Nick Fury and Hawkeye make a valiant return to the screen in this early home run for AppleTV+. Societal issues are front and center, and the 3 lead actors do a beautiful job of bringing them to light through this fascinating story of real estate, banking, and society as a whole. Really can’t go wrong with this cast, whose chemistry is undeniable. Truly moving and entertaining work of cinematic art, topped off by a happy ending in the sun. AppleTV+ has really hit the ground running in the quality department.
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.
8.7
Hell of a legacy project for Jennifer Aniston. Steve Carell delves into a devious villain again, with a strong follow-up to the dad you root against the entire runtime of “The Way Way Back.” All involved deliver some of their best performances, in what turns into some of the quickest wit and high velocity dialogue you’ll experience this side of an Aaron Sorkin project. Handles heavy subject matter with grace and the respect it deserves, doesn’t shy away from the gray, and draws clear moral boundary lines when called upon. Brilliant balance in script and performance. And a cliffhanger for the ages! Can’t wait to see where this goes, and where Apple TV+ asserts itself in the streaming wars with high quality prestige pieces like this. Well done!
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 