George Lucas wrote and directed this dystopian science fiction story as his first feature film. Robert Duvall stars as a dissatisfied worker in a society where every activity of every citizen is controlled, medicated, and regimented. The visual effects in this film are astonishing, given the age of the film.

Grade: B+.

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Robin Williams teaches a group of prep school students to seize the day in this classic coming-of-age story featuring an extraordinary young ensemble cast. He instills a passion for poetry in his young students, who struggle to find their places, when their futures have been decided for them.

Grade: A+.

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This interesting fairy tale, written by Neil Gaiman, features a combination of live action, puppetry, and animation that is very original. The story is endearing, although darkly sinister at the same time, and the characters are vivid and imaginative. The stunning art direction and effects make this an exceptional rental.

Grade: A-.

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The cinematography in this drama about the relationship between John Smith and Pocahantas is spectacular. Sadly, the script follows literary legend, as opposed to historical fact. Colin Farrell never loses his Irish accent, but the rest of the cast accurately get into character to depict life around 17th century Jamestown.

Grade: C.

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This ISA-nominated low budget picture focuses on three friends who live in Brooklyn and the choices open to them after their public school closes. This picture is in an unfocused, non-rigid European dramatic style and slows down noticeably in spots, but the strength of the acting performances warrants recommendation.

Grade: B.

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Leelee Sobieski is suprisingly believable as a rebellious goth opposite Albert Brooks in this unlikely friendship/romance story. The acting is wonderful, the script is refreshingly original, and the chemistry between the acting leads really jumps off the screen. A surprise ending enhances a sublimely lovely picture full of passion.

Grade: B+.

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This eye-opening documentary about the largest company in the world and how it affects the lives of workers, how it destroys small businesses across America, and how it impacts the well-being of its employees and the planet should be required viewing by anybody who cares about these issues.

Grade: A-.

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Another college movie about three merry pranksters blackmailed into getting the hot chick for the socially inept nerd. This funny comedy isn’t very believable, but there are laughs galore. The cast is talented and fill their roles well. The screenplay completely lacks originality and panache, but delivers low-brow chuckles.

Grade: C.

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Matt Dillon stars as an alcoholic writer who struggles to hold down entry-level unskilled jobs and stay in relationships with broken women in order to continue to write short stories. The movie is very gritty and low rent. The talented cast play their roles well in an unusual screenplay.

Grade: B-.

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Ellen Muth and Mandy Patinkin lead a talented cast in this series about a group of recently deceased people who are tasked with taking souls from the newly dead. The quirky comedy is full of smart laughs, lots of unlikely deaths, tender moments galore, and an intriguing post-life mythology.

Grade: A-.

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