“The Photograph”

7.4

Ah… a return to the old fashioned parallel stories that happen decades apart model. A welcomed return of an ageless relic. A touching story that really tugs at the heartstrings. (Thang God at least one sappy movie came out this week) The R&B during the intimate moments did bring me back to watching “The Room,” which was a nice chuckle before getting my heart ripped out again 5 minutes later. Hit a lot harder than expected and turned out to be a really well crafted story of romance, regret, and reminiscing.

“Downhill”

4.5

The guy next to me put it best as the credits started to roll. “Texting your friends to tell them to save their money?” Indeed sir, I am.

Wow… I just wasted an hour and a half of my life to go on an uncomfortable family vacation, without the ability to ski away from the drama or hook up with a snow bunny. Not fair.

No one in this film seemed to fit the role they’re cast in, and that’s putting it lightly. Think of a movie full of Debbie downers, playing against people cracking jokes that just amplify the discomfort of every situation. Fell out of love with this movie faster than the main characters fell out of love with each other. Had it not been for the fact I have a subscription and saw this for whatever fraction of $19.95 works out to this month, I’d be even more disappointed.

“The Wrecking Crew”

7.8

The storied history of some of the most legendary songs in music history… and the people who played them, that you didn’t know played them. The life of a studio musician. A definite off the wall find at the cinema own summer day, happened to be one of the most fascinating documentaries I’ve ever seen. And they thought Milli Vanilli was “groundbreaking”… an exceptionally informative film, combined with a legendary soundtrack packed with hits.

“Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound”

8.2

Officially a film geek, because these types of documentaries I always find fascinating. The storied history of sound design and film scores… a breathtaking art form, that movies just wouldn’t be the same without. It’s amazing how cyclical the film business can be, and how “happy accidents” often turn into historical masterpieces. The sense of adventure of early filmmakers is amazing.

“Servant”

8.2

A show as mysterious as the title… M. Night at the height of his powers, keeping you guessing at every twist and turn. Then second guessing your initial guesses. Then wondering “is that Ron Weasley from Harry Potter?” Then wondering why if the new nanny dabbles in the dark arts or is just odd? Then wondering who the hell came up with the fictional menu for this food critic?!? Then… completely dumbfounded by the conclusion of the season, wanting to find the producers and obtain a copy of Season 2 NOW! We need answers!