Fences

Fences (Denzel Washington, 2016)

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Rating: Q=6, P=4 / Average OJ

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

1950s, Race, Family, Based on Play, Complex Relationships, Philosophical

While films that feel/sound like stage productions have never been my favorite, I did enjoy the messages of this story. And the acting was truly great--wow, Viola Davis.

This story is about choices. How much of our lives are determined for us and how much do we choose? And how do our choices and actions affect others? Fences is about struggle, battle, coming to terms with decisions and situations that are forced upon you. It is also a poignant story about family and the complicated relationships between husband and wife, father and son, brother and brother, and mother and child.

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FAVORITES: The Fall, The Lady Eve, and M*A*S*H

FAVORITES for March & April:


The Fall (Tarsem Singh, 2006)

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Rating: Q=8, P=8 / Obsession

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

Visually Stunning, Whimsical, Artistic, Philosophical

Why is it a Favorite?
I'm a sucker for beautiful films and films that stray from the traditional narratives. This one weaves reality with fiction, is touching and dramatic at the same time whimsical. Tarsem makes incredible art and he traveled all over the globe (28 countries) for 4 years to make this masterpiece.

The Lady Eve (Preston Sturges, 1941)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Romantic/Screwball Comedy, Witty

Why is it a Favorite?
Because they just don't make romantic movies like they used to. This one is the best, in my opinion. Barbara Stanwyck was sexy, funny, smart, and beautiful. And this story is so bizarre it's hard not to enjoy.

M*A*S*H (Robert Altman, 1970)

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Rating: Q=7, P=8 / Obsession

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

Korean War, Comedy, Satire

Why is it a Favorite?
Not only is this one of my favorites, it is my all-time favorite. I don't know why, really, it just makes me incredibly happy. I think this is the best dramatic comedy of all time, quite possibly the wittiest American film. And it is timeless.

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