Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare

“Somewhere in Time”

By Brett_G on October 4, 2020October 4, 2020

8.9

“Someone from a half remembered dream…” <- Different movie, but it sums this one up fairly well.

This one caught me off guard. I was just on a history kick this morning, reading about the Grand Hotel. Fast forward to this afternoon, I’m teary eyed at Superman getting his heart broken by Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. John Barry (of James Bond fame) knocks it out of the park with the soundtrack that goes over the top in all the right ways to match the emotional swells of the story that unfolds.

The dream-like cinematography was a nice touch, and really added to the aesthetic of the story, which itself is a dream of sorts on the part of both main characters. Playing like a Jane Austen novel, the story checks all of the boxes. Doubly forbidden love (neither the universe nor her evil manager help in any way), a connection that transcends time, and a whirlwind timeline. The backdrop of Mackinac Island is breathtaking, and must have saved the production a small fortune, as the island is a time capsule of the time period in which the story takes place. I now understand why there is a vacation package at the resort for a yearly gathering of appreciation for this film.

The chemistry between the two leads is off the charts! The feeling of deja vu and/or destiny that emanates from the screen is uncanny, and draws the viewer in to the love story, and will leave you yelling at whichever screen you choose to view this on. The film definitely wears its heart on its sleeve. Highly recommend as a hopeless romantic and as a film critic.

Somewhere in Time Weekend

Documentary Netflix

“Challenger: The Final Flight”

By Brett_G on September 30, 2020

8.1

Netflix has two markets cornered. Romantic comedies and documentaries. This mini-series came out of nowhere and blew me away. The pacing, the new footage, the storytelling. Excellence on display. You’ll learn, be moved, and leave entertained. Things start off with an emotional weight that doesn’t let up until the final credits roll. Certainly not for the faint of heart, but well worth the emotional roller coaster. So many twists and turns, a wonderfully constructed window into introducing a new generation to such important historical lessons. Another home run by the red menace.

Action Suspense/Thriller

“Insomnia”

By Brett_G on September 30, 2020

7.6

Almost all the way through the Christopher Nolan cinematic universe. Pretty fitting this is coming out late at night, given the title.

No one does manic like Al Pacino. Walking that fine line between genius and insanity. And an absolute masterclass performance by Robin Williams… as a villain! He plays it straight, and it works. No goofball in this character, only sinister intent. Nolan really has a knack for casting to subvert expectations of us moviegoers. Keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. My money is still on us finding out that all Christopher Nolan movies are connected in the end. We’ll have a “saw”-type flashback montage showing how they all connect. Book it.

This film, similar to “Memento,” is an integral stepping stone in a legendary director’s journey honing his craft. The storytelling, casting, and cinematography being further refined as the resume grows over time.

Classic Comedy

“Summer Rental”

By Brett_G on September 30, 2020

7.2

Exactly what you expect, and want out of these popcorn flicks. Fun, laughs, and shenanigans. Not a lot of stakes in the story. Similar to “The Great Outdoors,” but without as many comedic big guns on the bill. Slap on some sunscreen, and get your front row sandy seat to the annual regatta, it’s sure to be a good time!

Horror/Thriller Shudder

“Fade to Black”

By Brett_G on September 14, 2020September 12, 2020

8.4

Don’t read into this one too much… Guy who watches a lot of movies becoming a serial killer. Yikes.

Strong “Taxi Driver” and “King of Comedy” vibes from this one. Excellent performance by Dennis Christopher. Such an interesting premise, so well executed. Interesting to watch and catch all of the homages and callbacks to Hollywood classics. Highly recommend if you’re looking for an outside the box spooky film for the Halloween season.