The simplistic subtly showcased in “Somewhere” solidifies Sofia Coppola as a bonafide filmmaker. Rarely does a director rebound so successfully and gracefully from a film like “Marie Antoinette.” Sofia, like her Academy Award winning father Francis Ford Coppola with his gangster films, has created charismatic characters, hopeless human beings who are saved by remarkable women. “Somewhere” feels like a European film- minimalistic, yet mesmerizing. With only four films thus far in her career, Coppola debuted with a spectacular adaptation of… Read more

Very few actors can capture compelling, conniving characters effectively. Yet Kevin Spacey succeeds once more in a memorable performance as Jack Abramoff in “Casino Jack.” Like Humphrey Bogart, Alec Guiness, Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Jack Nicholson and Robert De Niro before him, Spacey has seamlessly transitioned from celebrated character actor to Academy Award–winning superstar. “Casino Jack” was inspired by true events as lobbyist Abramoff and his business partner Michael Scanlon (Barry Pepper) sprouted as worldwide-headline sensations after a disastrous scandal… Read more

Instead of the conventional format, this month’s recommendations look a little different to include the numerous new releases that are coming out in December just in times for the awards season. The five best films to look into include: 1) “Black Swan” (Dec. 1, limited release) 2) “The Fighter” (Dec. 10, limited release) 3) ”Casino Jack” (Dec. 17, limited release) 4)  “How Do You Know” (Dec. 17) 5)  “Somewhere” (Dec. 22) All five shine as award contenders. Oscar winner James… Read more

12/7/2010 “Inception” Suggested Retail $28.98 DVD/ $35.99 Blu-ray Christopher Nolan’s “Inception,” the year’s surprise box office hit, stars preeminent Leonardo DiCaprio and sidekick Joseph Gordon-Levitt in an astonishing film that dumbfounds your mind. If you haven’t already seen it, acquire this movie. You won’t bemoan the decision. NOTE: A special edition case exists but is sold out unless you want to cough up $100-$200. “Shrek Forever After” Suggested Retail $30.98 DVD/ $38.99 Blu-ray/$39.99 Blu-ray and DVD combo The final Shrek… Read more

Sleek, sexy and sophisticated, Darren Aronofsky’s “Black Swan” soars as a modern day masterpiece. Aronofsky brilliantly cast charismatic Natalie Portman in the devastating, dark role of ballerina Nina. Once again, Aronofsky has proved his enormous insight and talent for creating compelling dramatic movies and received picture perfect performances from Portman, Mila Kunis and Vincent Cassel. ”Black Swan” narrates the story of Nina, a meticulous and talented dancer who relies on perfect technique over pure passion. Nina, an extremely gifted dancer,… Read more

Over the weekend, I frequented the gym, ran on the treadmill and discovered something astonishing. I felt really out of place and couldn’t figure out why. I slowed down my tempo and gazed at other gym patrons when I was thunderstruck. I didn’t grasp the latest gym rules and must have overlooked the guidelines for working out. This occurs when you’re busy and pop in on odd days and obscure hours because you lack a perfect schedule or routine. Apparently,… Read more

Talent takes Tinseltown by storm during this time of year. Award season creates Hollywood’s prominence, renown and reputation. The fans, the media and the film industry cherish this juncture. It’s still too early, but here are predictions for all of the award ceremonies like the Critics Choice Awards, the Golden Globes, the BAFTAs, and most importantly, the Academy Awards. Best Picture Presently up to 10 Best Picture nominations, this year’s contenders remain relativity easy to calculate. After the 2009 Oscar… Read more