Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
Steven Soderbergh’s 2009 film “The Informant!” tells the true story of F.B.I. informant Mark Whitacre, and the crimes he simultaneously hid from the F.B.I., with an eye towards the darkly comedic aspects of the story. Matt Damon and Scott Bakula shine. Warner’s 4K is a solid upgrade.
Warner has given Shaka King’s “Judas and the Black Messiah” a fantastic 4K UHD release which features the original Dolby Atmos track missing on the Blu-ray. The film is one of the best dramas of this decade.
“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.
“Dumb Money” tells the story of the Wall Street Bets/ GameStop push during 2020. Starring Paul Dano, Seth Rogen, and Nick Offerman, the film has been given a Blu-ray release by Sony Pictures.
“Oppenheimer” is an exceptional film from Christopher Nolan featuring a career best performance by Cillian Murphy. The 4K UHD earns a perfect score and our absolute highest recommendation.
“Dreamin’ Wild” is the type of nice low-key drama about real people that used to be made fairly often. It is elevated by strong performances by Casey Affleck, Walton Goggins, and Beau Bridges.
“Judas and the Black Messiah” is an excellent historical drama based on the sad but true story of Fred Hampton and his betrayal by William O’ Neal. Warner Bros. have brought the film to Blu-ray.
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.
Reversal of Fortune is a well made film based on the true crime book by defense lawyer Alan Dershowitz. Jeremy Irons gives a strong performance alongside Ron Silver and Glenn Close. Warner Archive has given the film a fan pleasing Blu-ray presentation.
Featuring an introduction by scholar Garner Simmons! –
Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid is one of Peckinpah’s most interesting and most flawed films. Disavowed by Peckinpah himself upon its release, a 2005 restoration brought the film back in a form close to its original intent.
