Reviews

The documentary "Wordplay," which delves into the world of crossword puzzles, initially appeared to be an excellent selection for my family, especially given our burgeoning interest in puzzles. However, it quickly became apparent that the film falls short of expectations.

The primary issue is the length of the documentary. What could have been a concise and engaging 30-45 minute feature is drawn out into a full-length film. This unnecessary extension results in a loss of focus and engagement, leaving viewers longing for more precise editing to maintain interest.

The inclusion of celebrity appearances, such as Jon Stewart and Mike Mussina, failed to add substantial value to the overall narrative. These cameos, while potentially exciting, were not enough to elevate the documentary beyond its fundamental shortcomings.

The film's focus on Will Shortz and the iconic New York Times Crossword is a redeeming quality. It offers an insightful glimpse into the mind of a celebrated puzzle master and the intricate world of crossword construction. However, this alone cannot carry the entire documentary.

In conclusion, while the subject matter of "Wordplay" is inherently fascinating, especially for puzzle enthusiasts, the execution leaves much to be desired. The film's pacing and content could have been significantly tightened to create a more engaging and impactful viewing experience.

My recommendation is to invest your time directly in the stimulating world of puzzles rather than watching this lackluster portrayal. The joy and challenge of solving crosswords far surpass the experience offered by this documentary.

"Brigsby Bear" is definitely a quirky movie, but it's worth a watch. Kyle Mooney, who I remember from SNL, really shows his talent here. He's not alone, though - Mark Hamill, Ryan Simpkins, and Jorge Lendeborg Jr. All do a great job too. The story starts off kind of slow, but stick with it, because it gets better.

It's all about this guy who's obsessed with a children's TV show, and it turns into this touching story about family and how the stuff we watch shapes who we are.

After seeing it, I couldn't help but wonder what goes on in Kyle Mooney's head to come up with such a detailed, out-there story. I miss his weird humor on SNL and really hope he gets to do more movies like this.

The film is not your usual Hollywood flick, but that's what makes it cool.

Netflix's 'Leo' is a captivating blend of high-quality animation and heartfelt storytelling. The film features a lovable main character, Leo, who resonates with Adam Sandler's best works in terms of emotional depth.

Although its pace is leisurely and its themes more mature, the movie strikes a chord with adult audiences, offering a rich, introspective experience. While it's a family-friendly film, its slower rhythm and profound message might not fully engage children under 10. Teenagers and young adults might find the plot somewhat sappy, potentially alienating the 15-25 age group.

Nevertheless, 'Leo' shines in its ability to weave a narrative that's both engaging and emotionally rich. The inclusion of Leo's buddy, Squirtle, adds a delightful touch to the story.

Overall, 'Leo' is a testament to the power of animation in storytelling, appealing to those who appreciate the genre and offering a lot for families with diverse tastes and ages to enjoy.

Netflix's "Leave the World Behind" is a cinematic journey marked by standout performances from its stellar cast, including Mahershala Ali, Julia Roberts, and Ethan Hawke. Their exceptional acting skills bring a compelling depth to this intriguing narrative.

A notable aspect of the film is its location - parts of it were beautifully shot at Sunken Meadow State Park on Long Island. The filmmakers' use of CGI to remove the Connecticut skyline is skillfully done, enhancing the authenticity of the setting. An interesting visual treat is a scene capturing Main Street in Kings Park, adding a unique and familiar touch to the movie.

Despite these strengths, the film grapples with uneven pacing and some confusing plot elements, particularly the unexplained phenomena surrounding the animals. This aspect of the story feels disjointed and leaves more questions than answers.

However, the film excels in its thematic exploration. It's been about three weeks since I watched it, and it still resonates with me. The movie's ability to provoke thought, stir introspection, and leave an indelible impression is its greatest triumph. It's a film that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reconsider their decisions and life choices.

In essence, "Leave the World Behind" is more impactful and profound than many have given it credit for. It's a reminder of the power of cinema to evoke deep reflection and emotional response, making it a noteworthy addition to Netflix's library.

"BlackBerry," starring Glenn Howerton and Jay Baruchel, is a compelling portrayal of a tech giant's rise and struggles. Howerton and Baruchel excel in their roles, bringing a remarkable depth and realism to their characters. Their acting stands as a highlight in a film marred by a slow pace and a narrative that can often be confusing.

The film's treatment of crucial plot points feels rushed, glossing over significant events and leaving the audience wanting more. Particularly, it misses the opportunity to delve deeply into the seismic shift caused by the iPhone's emergence, a pivotal moment in tech history that deserved more attention.

Moreover, an intriguing subplot, which is only briefly touched upon, is Jim Balsillie's audacious but ultimately failed attempt to purchase the Pittsburgh Penguins. This episode alone could have been a riveting storyline, deserving of its own cinematic exploration. It's a missed opportunity that could have added an exciting dimension to the film.

In summary, "BlackBerry" earns a 6 out of 10. It's a film with exceptional acting and a fascinating subject but falls short in pacing and narrative clarity, and it doesn't fully capture the dramatic impact of its real-life events.