49

Tokyo Story (1953)

Interesting cinematography and blocking. The movie is shot very stationary and low to the ground. Slow pace and dialog are tiresome. The simple, pedestrian storyline demands too much patience from the viewer to be enjoyable. Ultimately not worthwhile. [9/52]
April 10, 2015
68

High Noon (1952)

Seeing events unfolding in real time is engaging. Though, an overly simple and repetitive story hurt this film. The abrupt ending kills all momentum the film had gained, throwing time and several storylines to the wind. [8/52]
March 18, 2015
86

Sunset Boulevard (1950)

Hollywood is no place for delusional and washed-up talent. This film poignantly teaches that popular culture evolves, and sometimes the stars of yesterday are fade away. Gloria Swanson is absolutely batshit, and it is great fun to watch. [7/52]
March 18, 2015
74

The Third Man (1949)

Welles' insidious character is memorable, especially in his famous monologue. The zither adds a unique mix to the fantastic score. The cinematography is peculiar, yet noteworthy. [6/52]
March 6, 2015
88

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)

Very accessible, entertaining story. No wasted minutes. Great performances by the partners. The portrayal of the bandits was rather racist. Howard's message of paranoia and greed is apparent throughout the film. The final shot of the cactus and the bag sticks with me. [5/52]
March 6, 2015
91

Double Indemnity (1944)

Seeing the wheels turn in Neff's head is really fun to watch. He is also quite the raconteur. His partner Dietrichson is a femme fatale to the nth degree. The story is fast and engaging. Likely the best movie you will find dealing with insurance sales. [4/52]
March 4, 2015
68

American Sniper (2014)

Some very realistic, gory, intense scenes pepper the high-flown story of Chris Kyle. Cooper is only decent. The story of the modern American soldier is better told through a documentary. On the whole, underwhelming. Move along.
February 19, 2015
84

The Maltese Falcon (1941)

Through the great acting and writing, a complex web of who-knows-who and who-knows-what emerges. The dialog is fast, and slightly hard to follow. Samuel Spade is a total badass, played by one. Brief comedic relief adds a fun twist. If you can keep up, you will be rewarded. [2/52]
February 13, 2015
72

Wild (2014)

Cheryl Strayed is on a brave journey. While the purpose may not be explicit, it is clear she is on a personal mission. Through intense flashbacks, the viewer is tasked with putting her life's story together. Though, the more interesting (and less rattling) story is on the trail.
February 6, 2015
76

The Great Dictator (1940)

Satisfying slapstick and a classic mix-up scenario make for a funny setup. The intense political tone in the second half give the movie powerful substance. Chaplin's monologue as "Hynkel" at the end is one to remember. Hollywood isn't capable of a movie like this today. [1/52]
January 29, 2015