Moonlight

Moonlight (Barry Jenkins, 2016)

Click here for the basics

Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

Coming of Age, LGBT, Complex Relationships, Tear-jearker

What a deeply moving story. Moonlight speaks for the young boys without fathers, without a mothers who can teach him, who are bullied and teased, who are born into dangerous communities, who are confused in a society that devalues difference. This film is a powerful visual symphony, using imagery, movement, and light more than language to express the feelings of growing up and discovering oneself. Every moment was carefully constructed and the results are beautiful. Most definitely worthy of Oscar Best Picture. A triumph.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Stranger Things Season 1

Stranger Things Season 1 (The Duffer Brothers, 2016)

Click here for the basics

Rating: DSQ=11, SP=7 / Decadence

Scale A=4, Scale B=3, Scale C=4, Scale D=3, Scale E=4

Retro, 1980s, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller

Not really sure why it took me so long to watch this. Everything about this show is refreshing, enjoyable, and escapist. Of course, those three elements make a successful TV series. I love that it is retro and makes homages to many 1980s pop culture. I love that the main characters are all nerdy kids. I love that it is weird and creepy and hilarious all rolled together. Even if you aren't that into science fiction or fantasy or horror, watch this show--there is so much more going on than those themes. I guarantee you'll like it.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

In The Heart of the Sea

In The Heart Of The Sea (Ron Howard, 2015)

Click here for the basics

Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Adventure, Whaling, 1800s, Philosophical, Survival

An epic story, epic film. This is the story that Moby Dick was based on and it does not disappoint. If you like seafaring stories of adventure and survival, you'll enjoy this one. If you like visuals that feel sweeping, epic, and as picturesque as a Turner painting, you're in for a treat. This film is not about dialogue or acting, but rather the escape. It is philosophical and spiritual and delves into those basic, primitive questions of life and death. A splendid story.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here