By Tony Beal
IN THEATERS
“Trap”
A father finds himself on the edge of having his dark secret life exposed while attending a concert with his daughter.
Josh Hartnett (Cooper) shows an astonishing ability to play a true sociopath in this film. Hartnett’s performance matches the story’s twists and turns, keeping you guessing what will happen next. Different from M. Night Shyamalan’s (Writer/Director) previous works, “Trap” is the closest to a Hitchcock-esque feel he has been able to achieve. The film’s unnaturally odd, and at times comedic, world seen through the equally disturbing mind of a dangerous man is absolutely thrilling. Some of the greatest imagery here, which add to the cold and calculating mood, is brought to us through the lens of Sayombhu Mukdeeproom (Director of Photography). The final ten minutes are by far some of the best performances of everyone involved in this film, or possibly their entire careers. The story is not for everyone, but for those who love Shyamalan’s work, this is very much for you.
“Didi”
The last month of summer told through the eyes of a young man coming of age.
“Didi” shows a side of Taiwanese life rarely seen. Life for a young man on the verge of entering high school is surprisingly relatable for anyone, regardless of background or economic status. Turning thirteen is a rough time for anyone, when changes in your body and mind can run you through the ringer almost daily. Director Sean Wang captures this rollercoaster beautifully through the eyes of Chris, who we follow along a summer ride full of bad decisions and life choices. Joan Chen (Chris) is terrific in his reserved yet clearly personal performance. The film is comedic, filmed in a manner akin to mid-2000s movie genres and will make you laugh, cry and reminisce all at once.
“Cuckoo”
The new home of a young girl and her family hides dark and disturbing secrets.
The underlying story in “Cuckoo” is clear for the viewer, however the way it plays out is not so engaging. The story is hurt by the film’s pacing and lack of development beyond the main characters. Hunter Schafer (Gretchen) and Dan Stevens (Herr Koing) are truly the saving grace in this film. Particularly, Hunter’s ability to portray her deeply alienated feelings and Dan’s calculating nature. Filmed in nothing short of a gorgeous manner, the visuals of the surrounding woods create a feeling of haunting isolation. Tilman Singer (Writer/Director) creates just the right balance between scares and silliness. At times, these aspects may not even fit with the point of the film, yet somehow still work. Overall, I believe this to be an entertaining film; a clear sign of the potential for Tilman Singer’s career.
ON NETFLIX
“Rebel Moon – Part One: The Director’s Cut”
The ultimate vision of Rebel Moon with new scenes and effects.
As I feared, the “improved” director’s cut was as disappointing as the original. Director Zack Snyder’s updated vision promised a “new story.” Instead, what we get is a longer, equally as flawed, film. With very few new scenes, little is actually added as “unseen” and what is, does nothing to develop the story or characters. What Snyder chose to bring back only added gore and profanities which simply felt like a sad play for shock and awe. “Rebel Moon” is not an accurate portrayal of his abilities, as we know from his previous works, his talent places him at the top of his field.
NEW RELEASES
September 6
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”
“The Front Room”
“Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
September 13
“The Killer’s Game”
“Speak No Evil”
“DAN DA DAN: First Encounter”
“My Old Ass” (Limited)
September 20
“Transformers One”
“Wolfs”
“Bagman”
“A Different Man”
“His Three Daughters” (Netflix)
September 27
“The Wild Robot”
“Never Let Go”
“Lee”
“Azrael”
“Megalopolis”
September 30
“Old Guy”
