The Old Man and his Gun is a charming movie based on a true story. Forest Tucker liked to rob banks. He was good at it, too, until he got caught and then he was pretty good at escaping prison (including building his own boat and sailing out of San Quentin island). But that’s back story. 1981, We meet Forest (played by the excellent Robert Redford) as a dapper dressed, polite older gentleman robbing banks in Texas, Arkansas, and beyond. He appears elusive until John Hunt (Casey Affleck), a Dallas cop, digs deep to pursue the man. It’s a cat and mouse game, and really fun to watch.

Meanwhile, Forest meets Jewel (the sublime Sissy Spacek). He says he robs banks, but she doesn’t believe him. They meet at a diner when he’s in town, and ultimately spend time chatting and sitting on her lovely ranch front porch. Oh he spins quite a few stories, says only married once a long time ago with no kids. Says he’s a salesman. No matter what, he speaks with a twinkle in his eye and a thoughtful manner. Their screen time together is so pleasant.

So, in ninety minutes you get to meet the bank robber, his buddies (dubbed by the news as The Over the Hill Gang), his lady friend, and the cop. You get the build-up, the behind the scenes planning, the cop figuring out the puzzle, and you root for everyone concerned. Yes, the old man has a gun, but this is not a violent movie. So, sit back, enjoy the ride, watch a masterclass in acting, and enjoy the dialogue and the silence too.  The Old Man and his Gun is quite a true story- you just can’t make this stuff up.

Movie Review Madness - Manchester By the Sea

Casey Affleck hosted SNL and he questioned why? Indeed he had his new movie, Manchester By the Sea.   But as he said, “It’s really sad.”  And then he said, “It has some humor. It has family. But it’s really SO sad.”  Indeed – this movie is heartbreaking, but so so good.  Get in the right frame of mind and bring tissues. I really liked this film, and yes, I sniffled throughout. Casey Affleck should win the Oscar for Best Male Performance. He puts his whole being into this role and is so dang good.

Casey (Lee) works as a building maintenance guy in Boston. He’s a wounded soul with barely a bed and some clothes. One phone call – his brother, Joe (Kyle Chandler) dies from a heart attack – brings Lee back to Manchester and he has to face his past. Joe appointed him guardian for his teenage nephew, Patrick, (played by a wonderful Lucas Hedges). Why?? Lee can’t believe this. He’s not prepared for this. He can’t deal with this. He’s forced to face his past in Manchester. In flashback we see happier times with Joe, Patrick, ex-wife (a heartbreaking Michelle Williams), and then the total destruction of Lee’s life.  The movie builds, goes back in time, and we keep getting more pieces to the puzzle.

The reason for Lee’s sorrow, for his life is absolutely devastating. His reason to live and perk up is the nephew, Patrick. Lucas Hedges is a new, excellent actor. He brings a vibrancy to the role as he deals with his dad’s death and yet tries to soldier on. Typical teen – he’s full of bravado until he breaks down.

Manchester by the Sea is full of depth. It’s quite a tale and worthy of Oscar nominations.  And yes, it’s SAD….holy crap….it’s sad, and then has a spark of hope. Lee and Patrick are going to make it. They are going to thrive. Join them in the journey. Trust me on this one……wow