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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Moonlight

Moonlight (Barry Jenkins, 2016)

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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.

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Stranger Things Season 1

Stranger Things Season 1 (The Duffer Brothers, 2016)

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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.

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