In the golden age of excess, going to the movies was an event! At least it was for me. It was the 80’s. Cable television and VCR’s had recently grabbed the attention and imagination of America. Most of the movie theatres of the day were non-descript, brick and mortar boxes while many others were located inside your neighborhood mega-mall. I didn’t know any better, that’s pretty much what Houston had to offer (or so I thought…my apologies to the lovely River Oaks Cinema). In my youth, I had yet to experience the few remaining magnificent and majestic movie palaces scattered throughout the country, most of which I would one day call my own.

Partisan media manipulation of our values and the current political divide aside, movie lovers of the early 80’s were experiencing something very similar to what we are today; the excitement and imagination of new content found on smaller screens, along with a general lack of consistent quality from modern day motion picture production pipelines.

Back then, I didn’t care. Sure, I appreciated getting a look at new music videos from ZZ Top and Michael Jackson on this new channel called MTV. There were also more than a few eye-popping late-night movies (which my parents most certainly would not have approved of) enjoyed on a scandalous channel called Cinemax when a group of us would spend the night at Jason’s house down the street.

I just wanted to see movies. Didn’t matter if it was just mom and I…she actually took me to a pair of my first “R” rated movies; Jaws and Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Scandalous! Also a few of the best Pink Pantherflicks, starring the great Peter Sellars. When I hit middle school, I was more than happy for my Dad to drive my girlfriend and I to the local theatre. In fact, I didn’t mind being dropped off right in front for all to see. Maybe it was the brilliant Porsche my Dad would be driving or the prettiest girl in all of West Houston on my arm as we climbed out.

It wasn’t until my 2^nd year at Syracuse University that I knew my hobby was turning into something more ambitious. The tipping point was Miller’s Crossing at the sparkling new Carousel Mall in Syracuse, New York. When the credits rolled at the end of the Coen Brothers masterpiece, my good friend and I looked at each other and mutually agreed that this was a business we wanted to be a part of. As luck would have it, we eventually worked together for a time on the left coast. Even came up with a name for a production company that we would have built together…had we kept at it.

In the years that followed I’ve seen my fair share of movies. Most I’ve documented, but not all. On average, one per week for the past 38 years. Somewhere in the middle of it all I’m confident that I made an impact on how movies are now experienced in this country. While working in the movie theatre biz during the 90’s and into the new millennium, I was responsible for brokering a deal with foreign businessmen from Sony (along with their brilliant team of engineers) to have the first digital projection systems installed in domestic theatres. Finally, a pristine image on screen every time! Remember watching movies with those green and black scratches? Or those black dots that would appear in the corner every 20 minutes? Or even the occasional dust bunny bouncing around the screen, landing on the face of the leading lady at the worst possible moment? That was the norm for moviegoers from the beginning of time until about 2008. Not on my watch!

Then in 2005 the introduction of some of the first beer and wine licenses allowing alcoholic beverages in movie theatres. Took a while for the ‘burbs to catch on to that one, but it did big time. And while there would be lively debate as to who was overseeing this debauchery, our company was still breaking new ground.

If you ask my son, he’d say I also invented flavored popcorn salt. You know, the shakers on the concession counters that offer parmesan, garlic and Cajun flavors. He’s not entirely right about that claim…but not entirely wrong either. I was responsible for some of the most beautiful movie theatres in the country. Along the way I made some memorable friendships and had some “bucket list” worthy experiences with the Hollywood elite. It was a wild ride…

And then I walked away…or was “asked” to after rocking the boat (so I was told). Or maybe it was due to being given far too much credit (in their words), along with a threatening dose of staff loyalty for accomplishments that the billionaire owners could not execute on their own. Either way, the fam and I decided to head back to Texas. It was time to be a better Dad.

Fast forward to today, my favorite movie of all time still remains the same. I’m asked this regularly. It is the same movie now as it was when I was a child, back when seeing it in theatres (for a time) was generally impossible.  I had to wait to see it once a year, on TV, on CBS, on Easter weekend. Only in my teens did I first get the chance to see it on the big screen (along with mom and dad) without commercials. Since then I’ve seen it countless times on screens of all sizes as diverse as the stunning Stanford Theatre in Palo Alto to the modern Long Center, accompanied by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. I’d even gather my daughter would say it’s her favorite too. I still cry every time.

As a life coach, I practice and preach Cinematherapy. Movies stir emotions, help us grow, heal and learn. The belief is not my brainchild, although there is certainly some envy involved on my end. It’s worth checking outhttp://www.cinematherapy.com for more details. Unquestionably, movies play a unique role in our culture. While we might be a divided society, there are three experiences we all share that break down our walls and our differences. Attending a live show. Attending a live sporting event. And going to the movies. It’s about that shared experience. For a brief moment in time, we are all united. I’ll write more about it in a future post.

I’m often asked, “what’s good to see right now?”  I can’t answer that. Movie preferences are as personal and unique as the love we have for another. What I can do is offer how movies made me feel so far in 2020. It’s what I felt at the time, it’s honest and from the heart.

When a movie does it well, it’s exhilarating. There is clarity, hope and an appreciation for the artform that makes me proud to have been a small part of it. But even at their best nowadays, “there’s no place like home.”

By popular demand (and now that we all seem to have a lot of time on our hands), I’m doing mini reviews of every movie I’ve seen in 2020. Regardless if I’ve seen it before or for the first time (either on the big screen or on my Samsung TV at home) I’ll add a star-rating (from 0-5). My intention is to update the list quarterly, so let’s recap (in the order I experienced them) what January through March has looked like.

White Boy Rick– Not enough Matthew McConaughey and wayyy too much of the first-time teen actor playing Rick. Having an untested actor assume responsibility for carrying a film is a serious risk. It failed here, yet the semi-true story kept me intrigued. It would have made for an interesting multi-episode series on Netflix…with a more talented Rick. BTW, does every other word in the script NEED to be an “F” bomb? In my book, it’s lazy writing.  3 STARS

Hustlers– Much too over-hyped for its own good. The Academy caught on and deservedly left J-Lo off the nomination list. A poorly marketed film, as it’s actually much more about the scam then the pole dancing, for which I greatly appreciated the former. If there are Howard Stern fans out there, the film is based on the Scores Nightclub he frequented and incorporated into his radio show prior to his second marriage. As for the pole dancing…was I impressed by J-Lo’s physical achievement? Yes. Did it make me cringe repeatedly? Yes. 3.5 STARS

Logan Lucky– A pleasant surprise, with inspired hick performances by Daniel Craig, Channing Tatum and Adam Driver (whom I believe has taken the mantle from Samuel Jackson as the busiest man in Hollywood). A caper flick skillfully written by a woman and professionally directed by Steven Soderbergh that is clever and never takes itself too seriously. Also stars a sassy Riley Keough (the knockout redhead from Mad Max), who does her late grandpa proud…Mr. Elvis Presley himself. 4 STARS 

The Two Popes– A total snore for me. Two grand actors being too “actor-y”. Just seemed like a vanity piece…but I really hope Anthony Hopkins is not as old as he looked in this film. I worry we’ll lose him soon. A prime example of a nice ending tricking us into thinking we enjoyed the whole movie…which we didn’t. 2.5 STARS

Angel Has Fallen– The final installment of this trilogy (well…maybe) brought with it low expectations, which is maybe why I found it a guilty pleasure. Morgan Freeman and Gerard Butler mailing it in, but nobody’s making these movies (America vs. bad guys) anymore. Nick Nolte’s crusty presence saved the movie, particularly after Jada Pinkett Smith did her best to ruin it with some terribly stereotyped acting. 3.5 STARS

Bad Boys for Life– A throw back to 80/90’s buddy cop action/comedy movies, something you most definitely do not see anymore. Solid supporting performances, including the current lead actor from the kickass TV series, Vikings, Bijorn Ironside! Best of all, it looked like the actors were having fun too, thankfully as Will Smith desperately needed a career boost. I was worried he was about to enter into Jim Carrey and Will Farrell career purgatory…where only their older movies are worth seeing. 3.5 STARS

The Bling Ring– Proving Emma Watson can actually make a mistake, this one was a misfire. Directed sloppily by Sophia Coppola, it was cynical, non-empowering and made me want to shower the grime off afterwards. It wasn’t cool, ladies. 1 STAR

The Gentleman– Loved this one, a fine return to form by Guy Ritchie after the abomination that was Aladdin. Matthew McConaughey (Oscar worthy…not that anymore outside of Hollywood actually gives a damn about those awards anymore, trust me) and Charlie Hunnam tore it up. Fair warning, you need to pay attention to what’s going on…and quickly adapt to thick accents. You will be rewarded with a clever script, fantastic cast and just quality filmmaking all around. 4.5 STARS

Veronica Mars– My crush on Kristen Bell still remains, but this feature version of her TV series was dull, formulaic and made with very little skill or creative juice. I was not a fan of the TV show…and won’t be checking it out anytime soon. I’ll just re-watch High Fidelity on Hulu with the incomparable Zoe Kravitz showing the universe how it’s done with class and originality. 2 STARS

Jumanji 2– I’ll remember this mostly for the fact that my phone starting blowing up as the credits rolled, informing me of the death of Kobe Bryant. Too bad, as I really had fun with this movie. You know what you are getting, but the cast still delivered and had fun doing it. There is no reason to skip this movie…unless you are just a grouch…it’s fun, not offensive and doesn’t take itself too seriously. 4 STARS

Elvis & Nixon– A very hidden gem (on Amazon), with seriously strong performances by Michael Shannon and Kevin Spacey. This is a small and simple movie, but fascinating watching this historically accurate (allegedly) re-telling of the brief, yet famous meeting and photo-op. All under the competent hand of a little-know female director. You’ll thank me for this one. 4.5 STARS

The Aeronauts– Chemistry makes all the difference. It can lift material that might have failed without it. A period piece about hot air balloons and the origination of the weatherman does not sound sexy on paper, but with (the perfect) Felicity Jones and Eddie Redmayne back together again in a completely different pairing results in success. 4 STARS

Amy– An honest documentary of the life of Amy Winehouse, known in the USA for her least accomplished works. I learned something about someone…which is exactly what a documentary feature is supposed to do. I never realized that this was an accomplished Jazz musician who had some serious demons. Even though I’m not a fan of her music… or of her for that matter, it was a strong piece of filmmaking. 3.5 STARS

Creed II– Total junk. A retread of the story from Rocky IV, but with the proteges of Sly Stallone and Dolph Lundgren fighting instead. I found absolutely nothing of redeeming value here, unfortunately a stain on the career of Michael B. Jordan. A money grab that made money. Sheep to the slaughter. 1 STAR

Miss Americana– Yes, it was controlled…and completely abandoned art for politics in the final reel (which really pissed me off as a moviegoer that was fascinated by the proceedings up till then), yet I admired this doc about Taylor Swift. Watching her go through the songwriting process was an eye opener for me. So was her transformation from humble beginnings to an entitlement mindset in which she felt she must be more than just a pop star, as if that’s not enough for mere mortals.  3.5 STARS

What We Do in the Shadows– The source material for the brilliantly funny (and far superior Hulu series), this Vampire-out-of-water tale is still a hoot. Shot in the style of The Office in a faux documentary vibe is original and inspired. I actually found the Hulu series before watching the film, which didn’t do the film any favors, as I felt the series casting was perfection. Another example of where real creativity and talent is overshadowed by junk like The Walking Dead (or at least after season 5) 4 STARS

Almost Famous– My first re-watch of the year. One of my fav films of all time, this telling of a teenager working for Rolling Stone magazine traveling the country with an up and coming rock band is pure perfection. The music and performances are first rate, but the script is a true work of art. I still laugh out loud and cry on multiple occasions. 5 STARS

John Wick, Chapter 3– I’m a John Wick disciple. Period. If you have not seen the first two, start with part 1…immediately. You have no idea what you are in for. 5 STARS

Outlaw King– Chris Pine jumps headfirst into the mud and blood in this medieval adventure. One of the hardest working men in the business, he refuses to be typecast. To be honest, in the world of GOT and The Last Kingdom taking deep dives into the waging of war for gods and land, this film does its best to give us the Scottish version of things. 3.5 STARS

Edge of Tomorrow– One of the best performances in the career of Tom Cruise, this futuristic battle epic holds up after multiple viewings. It’s completely original and has Emily Blunt, who can do pretty much anything, including stealing the film from Cruise. It’s Sci-Fi that never goes to space, and it’s so smart AND has a truly frightening bunch of aliens. A credit to the supporting actors, who in many cases are asked to film the same scene at least 25 different ways. 5 STARS

The Torture Report– The worst movie experience of the year, bar none. Adam Driver, talented but working WAY too often in Hollywood, is pulled into the muck of this politically motivated script that cares nothing about storytelling. Regardless of my personal views, it’s a pollical propaganda piece dressed up as a pollical thriller. It’s garbage. NO STARS!

Jupiter Ascending– Well, I heard it was horrible. How can anything with Mila Kunis be that bad (wait, take that back). Was Channing Tatum a cross between a Vulcan and a Terminator…? I didn’t hate it, but it’s not good, it’s just preposterous. From the silly FX to the scene chewing by a pre-Oscar Eddie Redmayne (I sure HOPE it was pre-Oscar), it does not really work. If you want cool Sci-Fi, go back to my Edge of Tomorrow review. 2.5 STARS

End of Watch– Damn, this was good stuff. Shot docu style, it’s just badass and frightening. Gyllenhaal and Pena at the top of their games in this enthralling LAPD cop flick. Directed with flair and complete control by David Ayer. 4.5 STARS

Birds of Prey/Harley Quinn– Then there is this. How could Margot Robbie, who I worship just like most humans, be allowed to turn this into a vanity piece that fails miserably under the hack direction of a newbie who has no street cred or resume to be given the reigns of this huge responsibility.  I wanted to like it so much, but it was sadly way too much of a good thing (Robbie).  A complete mess and wasted opportunity. 1 STAR

Layer Cake– Finally got around to this one, stupid me. It’s a fantastic British crime thriller, with a young Daniel Craig (pre-Bond) and a world-class cast. Violent, stylish, smartly written and directed by a legit pro in his early days. 4.5 STARS

Knowing– Remember Nic Cage? I didn’t think so. He headlines this Sci-Fi thriller that was way ahead of its time. What if you knew where and when future major tragedies would take place, but couldn’t do anything to stop them. The film didn’t make much money due to the major backlash from conservatives and Christians, as the script completely obliterated the widely held origin of Adam & Eve. The plot is a bit goofy at times, but the concept was captivating and chilling. 4 STARS

The King– This Netflix feature took us back again to the time of kings and swords and war.  This time with the young, but gifted Timothy Oliphant in the title role. Unlike Outlaw King, someone forgot to wake Oliphant from his slumber, as he played the young King in a one-note, pretentious snore. One of the worst performances of the year…though I bet he thinks it was high art. I’m a sucker for this genre though, so it still worked for me on the low expectation meter. 3 STARS

Quantum of Solace– Decided to revisit this early Daniel Craig-era Bond flick. As much as I loved Spectre and Skyfall, this one did not hold up as well for me. Dumb storyline…something about Bolivian water supply, yikes. 4 STARS

Mr. Right– Can Anna Kendrick do anything wrong? Uh, no. She’s quirky (shocker) but in this one she decides she likes the lifestyle of her new man, Sam Rockwell. They both shine in this weird little film about hitmen taking out the client instead of the targets! A true hidden gem, seek it out. 4 STARS

Gerald’s Game- Don’t get me wrong, I love Carla Gugino and she gave a brave performance here…but I absolutely hated this movie. It felt like soft-core porn to me, made me very uncomfortable, in a bad way. Then there was this creepy 7ft guy who, well…I don’t want to talk about it. Stephen King really went dark in this tale. NO STARS! 

Self/Less– Not quite sure what Ryan Reynolds was up to. There is no conceivable way that he read this script and felt confident that a C-list director could elevate it. A generally sub-par cast and a spray tanned Ben Kingsley chew scenery. It was dumb…sorry that’s as academic an evaluation as I could come up with. 2 STARS

Black Sea– Fortunately, this underappreciated gem finally hit my screen. Jude Law in a strong performance as the captain of a submarine full of multinational mercenaries searching for gold. That sounds silly, but stick with me here. The claustrophobia of the sub, some decent supporting character development and skillful direction carried the day. 4 STARS

ZZ TOP, The Little Band from Texas– A new doc chronicling the career of this incredibly talented and loyal trio. Ridiculous music that looked and sounded unbelievable on my screen and through the sound bar. I was completely enthralled. I’ve seen these guys live twice, and I’m an even bigger fan now. 5 STARS

Monty Python and the Holy Grail– My last big screen experience before the virus shut down the world. The 35^th anniversary re-release was an absolute treat to see in a theatre. This legendary comedy comfortable sits in my top 5 films of ALL TIME. Always has, always will. Had a chance to see John Cleese in person a few months ago talk about his career and his experience making this film. An experience and a film I will cherish. 5 STARS

Terminator: Dark Fate– Very cool to see Arnold and Linda Hamilton back on screen together. That made the two hours worth it for sure. Otherwise, this is the exact same plot as at least two of the other 6(!) Terminator movies, with a few cannon clarifications. There were multiple problems…the baddie Terminator, goodie half human Terminator and a John Conner retread in female form were all so poorly cast and dull that I didn’t give a damn about any of them. The Terminator FX was cool, but some of the action CGI looked a bit off at times.  3.5 STARS

I hope that these brief recaps will help you avoid losing some all-important hours now that we are all spending more time at home than we had anticipated. And if I’m lucky, maybe a few of the good ones can provide some Cinematherapy on a gloomy day.

-W. Fox

3/24/2020