Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
“Nightcrawler” is one of the great Los Angeles films. Featuring an amazing performance by Jake Gyllenhaal, and great turns by Rene Russo, Bill Paxton, and Riz Ahmed, Dan Gilroy’s 2014 thriller earns our highest recommendation. Shout! Factory’s new 4K release is a must-buy!
Shane Black’s “The Nice Guys” is one of my favorite movies of the last decade. Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe have great chemistry as mismatched partners working a case. Warner has released a 4K UHD.
“Black Mass” has been given a 4K UHD release by Warner Bros. The film has a good performance by Johnny Depp, but the script could have benefitted from more polished dialogue.
“The First Purge” is James DeMonaco’s attempt to capture the zeitgeist during a politically inflamed time in America. It’s an interesting film that is the most divisive amongst fans of the series.
“The Purge: Election Year” has a little difficulty following up “The Purge: Anarchy,” but it is still an enjoyable action film. The candy bar sequence may be the best sequence in the series.
“The Purge: Anarchy” pivots from horror into action-thriller territory successfully. It’s a strong sequel that set the template for the rest of the series. It remains a fan favorite.
“Crimson Peak” is one of the best works of modern Gothic filmmaking thanks to Guillermo del Toro’s incredible eye for detail and taste for invention. Arrow Video’s limited edition Blu-ray is the definitive edition until we get a 4K UHD.
“Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood” is still the best film from 2019. It isn’t even close. We revisited the film after reading “Helter Skelter.”
The WInd Rises is a beautifully written and directed film from master filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. The film may take place during some of the hardest times for the world, but the central story is focused on selfless love and the desire for artistic expression. Shout! Factory have given the film a pristine release.
