Month: September 2016
The Magnificent Seven: Not your father’s western
by Matt Ward
“The Magnificent Seven” is a completely unnecessary remake. It’s not because the Denzel Washington led western isn’t a quality movie, but rather that the re-imagining of the 1960 film starring Yul Brenner and Steve McQueen doesn’t actually resemble the original film itself. In fact, the newest film from director Antoine Fuqua would probably be better served with a different title altogether as Fuqua’s movie … Read More The Magnificent Seven: Not your father’s western
Snowden: NSA surveillance for dummies
by Matt Ward
There’s an inevitable desire to start constantly looking over your shoulder and watching what you post on social media after screening the political drama “Snowden,” now in theaters. Oscar winner Oliver Stone’s paranoia-inducing image rehabilitation feature narrative on famed former NSA analyst and fugitive Edward Snowden hits heavy for those relatively uninformed about the titular character’s life and actions. However, for news-minded individuals, “Snowden” … Read More Snowden: NSA surveillance for dummies
Sully: Hanks soars once again
by Matt Ward
What happens to unlikely heroes after their miraculous deeds? Academy Award winning director Clint Eastwood seeks to answer this complex question with yet another introspective look at a recent American hero following 2014’s spectacular “American Sniper.” In “Sully,” Eastwood examines the “hero on the Hudson,” veteran U.S. Airways pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger as he constantly relives his 208-second flight from LaGuardia Airport which ended … Read More Sully: Hanks soars once again
The Light Between Oceans: Vikander, Fassbender put on acting clinic
by Matt Ward
Every year there’s a film that sneaks its way through theaters without much commercial fanfare and then makes a strong showing in Oscar nominations. In 2016 that film is assuredly “The Light Between Oceans,” a picturesque, romantic period drama featuring reigning Best Supporting Actress winner Alicia Vikander and Oscar nominee Michael Fassbender along with a terrific supporting performance from Academy Award winner Rachel Weisz. … Read More The Light Between Oceans: Vikander, Fassbender put on acting clinic
Cinematic Considerations 