Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Week of August 19-25 (Rhoades)

Tropic Overview

Tropic Cinema Offers New Slate of Films

Reviewed by Shirrel Rhoades

With all films rolling off the Tropic’s screens but one, we are treated to a nearly clean slate of new movies.
Leading the pack is “Captain Fantastic.” This dramedy introduces an off-the-grid family who returns to everyday society for a funeral. Viggo Mortensen is the dad who wants to protect his kids from the evils of the outside world, but what if he’s trying too hard to protect them? Philadelphia Inquirer describes it as “a rare movie that asks such big questions -- about parenting, about family, about modern-day America -- and comes up with answers that are moving and meaningful, that make you laugh and cry.” And Detroit News calls it, “a warm, humorous, enlightening family drama marked by strong performances ...”
Next up, “Don’t Think Twice” delivers an insider’s look at an improv comedy troupe in Brooklyn -- their hopes, dreams, jealousies -- a new offering from stand-up comic Mike Birbiglia. Rotten Tomatoes said about one of his recent films, “Birbiglia delivers a coherent, nearly one plotted story with digressions, flashbacks, life lessons, etc. Rather than watching a standup routine, imagine you are watching a comedy movie, with Birbiglia as your tour guide. He'll make you laugh …”
“Finding Dory” is Disney’s sequel to “Finding Nemo,” another fish story for the kids. The blue Tang named Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) is looking for her family. ChristyLemire.com comments, “It's gorgeous. It's lively. It's got terrific performances from a strong voice cast. It's emotionally affecting without being heavy-handed.” And Chesapeake Family Magazine finds it to be “a truly touching film, graceful in its exploration of identity, family, and the way they intersect.”
“Star Trek Beyond” is the latest voyage of the Starship Enterprise, but it’s a story with a retro ‘60s TV feel (but with better CGI). Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto reprise their roles as Captain Kirk and pointy-eared Mr. Spock. Salon.com observes, “‘Beyond’ is undoubtedly messy, like a Starfleet ship that’s taken its fair share of beatings, but it is frequently a reminder of how good the series can be when all its engines are in working order.” And Quad City Times calls it “an outer-space thrill ride.”
And held over is “Florence Foster Jenkins,” the story of a really bad singer. Meryl Streep portrays the amateur operatic soprano who makes it to Carnegie Hall at age 76, confounding fans and critics alike. The New Yorker notes, “Streep is right there, solidly invested in the folly of Florence’s dreams. When she declares that ‘music has been, and is, my life,’ you believe her.” And Toronto Star sums it up as “enjoyable summer entertainment for grown-ups and anyone else seeking refuge from superheroes.”
Los of new films! Lots of movie fun.
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