Been awhile since we’ve explored Netflix. Let’s take a look
at a few selections
I binged on Orange is the New Black. Initially I wasn’t keen
and stepped away. Then after encouragement from my sister and others I
revisited the show and was hooked. It’s way more than just ladies in prison.
This is a full character exploration, along with scheming, conniving,
underground dealings, and more. Lorraine Toussant as V deserves an Emmy award –
she was evil. I am ready for season 3 to start in June.
Also started Season 3 of House of Cards. Oh, if even half of
what goes on in this Washington is true, then we are in trouble. Kevin Spacey
as Frank Underwood is a gooey slimy snake. His wife Claire, Robin Wright, is a
Lady Macbeth. Oh the games.
Whiplash – Miles Teller is the student. JK Simmons (Oscar
winner for this) is the teacher. He’s foul mouthed and brutal, as kids try to
achieve perfection in music. Banging those drums until the hands bleed.
Excellent movie.
The November Man – Pierce Brosnan is pulled from retirement
to deal with a Russian mess. But there’s more to this spy game. Good action and
plenty of intrigue. It’s a cheap James Bond.
The Maze Runner – kids wake up and are stuck in a world
where the maze seems to thrive on killing. What’s on the other side? Strong YA
movie with survival themes. But Hunger Games is a better series.
Life Itself – This is a fascinating documentary about the
late Roger Ebert. He gave us the thumbs up on movies and changed the world of
movie criticism. This doc explores his life and watches him fight throat
cancer. It silenced his voice, but not his heart and love of movies.
Laggies – Keira Knightly doesn’t want to face grownup
decisions. She hides out with teens (Chloe Grace Moretz) and generally is
a joke. I expected better from this film. Don’t waste your time
Force Majeure – Swedish film with some subtitles. But really
good. Family is on a ski vacation when there’s an avalanche. The father
basically flees the scene to take care of himself. No one is hurt but it
creates a lot of tension as far as family trust and his failure to be The Man.
Draft Day – Kevin Costner is perfect in this role as the man
who has to make the right choice for the draft pick. It’s Moneyball with
football – go with the money, go with the reliable, go with the gut, or cave to
pressure. You can count on Costner to make the right choice and get the right
kid for the job.
The Equalizer – I was set for a tight movie with lots of
action starring Denzel Washington. Instead it was a tad boring.