Nancy Gifford-Humphreys

Finally, straight news without editorializing. Good coverage of news items here and abroad, with the occasional special interest story. The announcers present well and without histrionics. My “go to” now for news. Thanks.

The story is almost a parody, and would be, if the subject matter was a bit lighter. Not much of a script for Meryl Streep to work with, but important points were made about the persuasive powers of ‘popular’ presidents. Predictable in many ways. My favorite character was Jennifer Lawrence, whose very character is a parody of a wild, profane young scientist with no filter. Loved her. Leonardo DiCaprio is also a cliche, but plays his role well enough. The ending is, well, unusual. As for the rest, it had the potential to be better than it was.

My husband and I left the movie theatre after two hours. The film is slow, repetitive, and says nothing new. Very disappointing.

This is a very fine courtroom drama showcasing Jimmy Stewart, Lee Remick, Ben Gazarra and George C Scott, who act their roles brilliantly. It’s also a film noir with a mystifying but somewhat disturbing ending. The pace is good - and the simple plot, with a couple of twists, held my interest throughout the 2 3/4 hours; never a dull moment in this film. Comedic moments in the courtroom, as well as engaging minor characters, keep the film enjoyable, despite its dark theme of physical abuse. It can’t be viewed through a 21st century lens, but is a timeless commentary on how justice can be thwarted because of courtroom antics and power plays. I’d watch it again.

Understated but brilliant. Its deeper level explores the idea of personal identity as well as ‘who actually authors a book?’ The subject of mistaken identity and its hilarious undertones are subtly Shakespearean, especially the supporting role of Wasserman, the drunken professor who actually rides a horse. Don Johnson is delightfully entertaining in this supporting role, Kate Hudson shines, and the rest of the cast is excellent. Academia laughs at itself, as it well should. Don’t miss this film.