STAN’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:
“Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation”
With five films in the franchise, the niche is now firmly established. The cerebral edge of the story themes and exceptional action/stunts are well-paced throughout while eye-candy locations worldwide lend international flair. All IMF team members are now in place with strong individual nuanced characterizations. My personal favorite IMF team member is Simon Pegg as Benji Dunn. “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation” is one heck of a ride! The next installment has been given the green light and “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation” receives my “must see” rating.
RANDY’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:
“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”
Based on the television show of the same name from the 1960’s, the story follows two government agents trying to stop nuclear destruction. Henry Cavill, the American agent, is perfectly cast opposite Armie Hammer, the Russian agent. The duo are teamed up against their will, and their on-screen love/hate relationship is pure magic. Alicia Vikander is extremely likable as the female protagonist and plays a much different role than in “Ex Machina.” From the action sequences to the subtle comedy, to the terrific on-screen chemistry between the entire cast, the entire film is non-stop fun. Perfect set design and costuming add to a truly retro feel.
JOSEPH’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:
“She’s Funny That Way”
“She’s Funny That Way” is a delightfully charming throwback, authentically resembling the simple-yet-twisted screwball comedies of yesteryear that seem to be all but extinct. Boasting an all-star cast that includes Imogen Poots and Owen Wilson and a quick-witted screenplay by legendary writer/director Peter Bogdanovich, the flick feels like it has been plucked right out of the golden age of Hollywood. It is bouncy, boisterous and—best of all—squirrels-to-the-nuts from beginning to end, running on the crazy coincidences that create chaos in its amusingly neurotic characters’ lives.
