Saving Mr. Banks Goes Behind The Scenes

Inspired by true events, Saving Mr. Banks is a film that takes us behind the scenes of how Mary Poppins came to the big screen. The art of filmmaking is a painstaking process.  This is something I’ve learned not just through watching bonus features but reading biographies about classic Hollywood.  On paper, there’s nothing inherently wrong with the film.  It’s only when you dig deeper into the actual story where the film has its faults. …

"Saving Mr. Banks Goes Behind The Scenes"

The Art of Racing in the Rain is Heartbreaking

The Art of Racing in the Rain is going to be an emotional film for anybody who has ever had a dog as a member of their pack. I know it’s the biggest question on your mind and I’ll get to it in due time.  Before I do, I’ll add that there is a nice pile of laughs in here, too.  Some of these laughs come with what Enzo (Kevin Costner) says in the film. …

"The Art of Racing in the Rain is Heartbreaking"

Chicago Film Festival: The Ballad of Lefty Brown

The Ballad of Lefty Brown shows that the western isn’t dead and gives actor Bill Pullman a showcase role in the thriller. Written and directed by Jared Moshé, Pullman leads a cast that includes Bill Pullman, Kathy Baker, Jim Caviezel, Joe Anderson, Diego Josef, Tommy Flanagan and Peter Fonda. Edward Johnson (Fonda) gets elected as a senator of Montana and Lefty Brown (Pullman) is by his side when he’s shot to death.  Nobody ever takes Brown–a sidekick for…

"Chicago Film Festival: The Ballad of Lefty Brown"