Summer Of 85: **** (out of *****)

When Alexis capsizes his friends boat off the coast of Normandy, he is rescued by an older boy who happens to be sailing by and sees him. This random act of kindness triggers a whirlwind relationship that lasts only six weeks, but will stay with Alexis forever. At 16, his eyes are opened up to a new world of pleasures and emotions he had yet … Continue reading Summer Of 85: **** (out of *****)

Ash Is Purest White-**** Out Of *****

Hollywood has had it’s eye turned toward China for a while now, but American audiences haven’t taken to Chinese films with the same fervor. It isn’t for a lack of quality cinema, as Zhangke Jia’s latest displays. The director made a huge splash with Still Life in 2006, and he has been consistently winning over critics with every film since. Ash Is Purest White is … Continue reading Ash Is Purest White-**** Out Of *****

CIFF Capsule Review: The Great Buster

Buster Keaton was born this month in 1895. His transition from Vaudeville family act to silver screen icon began over 100 years ago. And yet, his talent and charm make his movies as relevant today as they were when they were made. The true test of comedy, in my opinion, is whether or not it can make you laugh out loud when you’re alone. I’ve … Continue reading CIFF Capsule Review: The Great Buster

Valentine’s Love Fest

   In past years I’ve always made a playlist of songs that I thought fit with the Valentine’s Day celebration. This year, I’ve decided to do a list of films instead, since there aren’t enough good love songs coming out every year to necessitate a new list. So here are some things you can watch with your boo/bae/significant other. The Philadelphia Story: Cary Grant as … Continue reading Valentine’s Love Fest

Night Owls **** (out of *****)

   “This movie cost less to make than that car sitting outside,” Adam Pally said, comparing his new film Night Owls to the $220,000 Aston Martin parked in front of Music Box Theatre (AM is one of the sponsors of the Chicago Critics Film Festival.) “Like, $100,000 less.” You wouldn’t know by watching the film. Sure it’s just two people talking for 95% of the … Continue reading Night Owls **** (out of *****)