Primer (2004)

This ISA-nominated thriller shows what a miniscule budget and an excellent script can do. Two friends with a garage-based technology startup discover that the machine they’re working on creates a loop in time. Competently produced and directed by a first-timer, this engrossing film delivers compelling dramatic tension. Grade: A-. IMDB: Primer.

V for Vendetta (2005)

The Wachowski Brothers redeem themselves in this Oscar-worthy adaptation of an Alan Moore graphic novel, set in a totalitarian Britain run by religious fundamentalists. Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving, and a host of English stars tell a compelling story with eye-popping special effects, solid acting, and a thrilling soundtrack. Grade: A-. IMDB: V for Vendetta.

The Aviator (2004)

Apr 07, 2006 by Mr. Nau Leonardo DiCaprio handles his role as Howard Hughes with credibility, grace, and charm, with an incredible cast of talent, including Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale, and John C. Reilly. This intimate portrait of a true original (and true eccentric) sheds light on an interesting life and the glamor that surrounded […]

Garden State (2004)

Apr 03, 2006 by Mr. Nau Zach Braff writes and directs his filmmaking debut, a quirky comedy about an aspiring actor who returns home to New Jersey after his mother dies. The eccentric cast of characters, the fun soundtrack, brilliant acting by Braff, Natalie Portman, and Peter Sarsgaard, and a beautiful story make this film […]

Million Dollar Baby (2004)

Clint Eastwood directs a magnificent Oscar-winning film about a working-class woman with ambitions toward becoming a professional boxer. We follow Maggie Fitzgerald as she tries to find a coach and improve her skills. Stunning acting performances by Eastwood, Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman make this movie a masterpiece. Grade: A+. IMDB: Million Dollar Baby.

Woman On Top (2000)

Mar 31, 2006 by Mr. Nau Penelope Cruz glows magnificently in this funny little fantasy about a Brazilian cook who comes to San Francisco and enchants everyone with her food and her quirky eccentricity. While the story gets very saccharine, the soundtrack is absolutely delicious. Can I order a bossa nova band to follow me […]

Hotel Rwanda (2004)

Mar 28, 2006 by Mr. Nau Don Cheadle stars as Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager who sheltered over a thousand civilians during the Rwanda Genocide. The subject matter of the film make the tense drama difficult to watch in parts, while other parts demonstrate how one man can save so many of his fellow human […]

Breaking Away (1979)

Mar 23, 2006 by Mr. Nau This bicycle race thriller features a very silly script and acting that borders on inept. Nobody involved in this picture seemed to have done any significant research at all on cycling. Despite its flaws, there are some thrilling, fun moments in this flick. Just don’t expect to be blown […]

Syriana (2005)

Mar 21, 2006 by Mr. Nau George Clooney stars in this excellent political thriller as a CIA field operative operating in the Middle East. The dangerous game being played is obvious throughout the picture. The tension is palpable and the sense of peril immediate and real. Great acting and an interesting story make this ride […]

Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)

Mar 21, 2006 by Mr. Nau David Strathairn completely owns the screen as Edward R. Murrow, a television journalist who stood up to the fear tactics of Joseph McCarthy. Despite the change in times, this picture feels absolutely contemporary. It is hard not to recognize a very historic, heroic moment when Murrow delivers his famous […]

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