Miracle on 34th Street, revisted

Miracle on 34th Street (George Seaton, 1947)

Click here for the basics

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

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

Classic, Holiday, Feel-good

It had been many years since I watched this classic holiday film--the story of what happens when Santa Claus actually does come to town. The Christmas and holiday spirit shines in this one and leaves the viewer feeling that there is hope for humanity. We need more feel-good drama films like this one now more than ever.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

The Mandalorian, Season 2

The Mandalorian, Season 2 (John Favreau, 2020)

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

Fantasy, Science Fiction, Star Wars Universe, Epic

The second season of The Mandalorian definitely delivered. And there was a lot that the Star Wars franchise had to deliver, that is for certain. Just like season 1, this installment was a fantastic trip through fantasy worlds and appeals to Star Wars fans and non-fans alike--but, again, it helps to know the universe a little bit. Favreau does throw a lot of Easter eggs at viewers. In season 2 we get some answers and, of course, more questions are asked (season 3, please!) There is also much more character and relationship development, which I appreciated and found extremely interesting, especially in chapter 15: The Believer. Philosophical and moral dilemmas are brought up and we see our favorite bounty hunter wrestle with them. And the season finale is just...epic. Can't wait for more shows and another season!

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Pump Up The Volume

Pump Up The Volume (Allan Moyle, 1990)

Click here for the basics

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

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

Coming of Age, High School, Philosophical

I'm not sure why I never saw this film before--it's in that "must see" category of films, for me, just based on the premise. While this certainly is a high school film, it doesn't feel the same as many others made in the 1980s and 1990s. There are similar themes--relationships, angst, loneliness, not fitting in--but the focus is on identity and speaking out. Breaking free from societal expectations. I really liked Christian Slater in this--he is a teen who has a lot to say but is afraid to say it in front of anyone. I certainly felt that way when I was younger and still do, at times. Samantha Mathis also does a great job. A good watch. 

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here

Arabesque

Arabesque (Stanley Donen, 1966)

Click here for the basics

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

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

Mystery, Crime, Noir, Thriller

From the same director famous for Charade, Arabesque is a swirling mystery/crime film. We follow Gregory Peck's character, Mr. Pollock, as he is forced into a mess he tries to understand but no matter what he learns and reveals he just never gets the full story. Sophia Loren is also absorbing to watch. A good number of tense and silly moments balances well to make the film a fun escape. Excellent score by Henri Mancini, too!

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here