IN THEATRES AND STREAMING

“BULLET TRAIN” (in theatres)

It has been a rather thin, squishy summer of film; a myriad of mediocrity unworthy of brain waves, exceptions: “Top Gun”, “Official Competition”, “Hallelujah”, “Vengeance” and the recently reviewed “The Good Boss”. To shun ennui, I visited “Bullet Train” (Brad Pitt the primary draw); superciliousness on steroids but for some inexplainable rationale I found myself enjoying, laughing at the intended moments and luxuriating in the intoxicating speed of Japan’s iconic conveyance. Brad Pitt, the King of Nonchalance with constant self-deprecation bests absurdity, a poisonous snake, and a hierarchy of miscreants (deliciously depicted by actors Aaron Taylor Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Joey King); in conclusion it was a fast fix, just not potent enough.

TWO & ½ STARS!!

“I CAME BY”   (Netflix)

A thoroughly engaging tale, starring the inimitable Hugh Bonneville as a highbrow serial killer; his dexterity between sophisticated elitism and salient savagery is compelling enough to imbibe its entirety. Stroked by a strong supporting cast: George Mackay, a graffiti artist, his mother Kelly Macdonald, and buddy Precelle Ascott is grippingly watchable.

THREE STARS!!!

“YOSI, THE REGRETFUL SPY” (Amazon Prime) 

An Argentinean (with Jewish heritage) intelligence agent infiltrates the Jewish community in Buenos Aires; his involvement and its complex intricacies led eventually to the bombing of the Israeli embassy in 1992. “Yosi” (Gustavo Bassani) with subtle intelligence, depicts a man who loses his way but finds his purpose. Be forewarned, after 8 episodes we have “miles to go before we sleep”.

THREE & ½ STARS!!!

“LOVING ADULTS”  (Netflix) (Danish: English subtitles)

Is anything but loving. Fine acting gives heft to this, oftentimes hyperbolic, twisted psychological, episodic tale of warped commitments, illicit attractions and the tunnel vision that distorts logic. Titillating, unsuspected surprises keep viewers entranced throughout.

THREE STARS!!!

Peneflix