Amsterdam Has A David O. Russell Problem – Oscars Watch

On paper, Amsterdam has the right pedigree to be a serious Oscar contender but the film has a David O. Russell problem. Amsterdam is described as “a fascinating and richly intricate tale that brilliantly weaves historical fact with fiction for a timely, cinematic experience.” It is a “crime epic about three close friends who find themselves at the center of one of the most shocking secret plots in American history.” 20th Century Studios released both…

"Amsterdam Has A David O. Russell Problem – Oscars Watch"

Burden: Can Love Win Over Hate?

Burden tells the story of how one man made the decision to walk away from the KKK with the help of a local religious leader and social activist. Let’s paint a quick picture.  The film takes place in Laurens, S.C. in 1996 where racism was very much alive and well.  Honestly, it’s brutal to watch at times as there are more than enough moments of discomfort.  There are racial slurs throughout the film so I’m…

"Burden: Can Love Win Over Hate?"

Birdman: Oscar Winner Benefits From Unique Style

When it comes to filmmaking, the Michael Keaton-starring Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) is a unique achievement in cinema. The film, featuring a star-studded cast, is Michael Keaton’s comeback so to speak.  Did he ever go away?  Well, probably not.  Regardless, Keaton turns in one of the greatest performances of his career. Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) used to portray the iconic Birdman.  While battling his alter-ego, the actor now mounts a Broadway play…

"Birdman: Oscar Winner Benefits From Unique Style"

The Death of Stalin: A Comic Approach to 1950s Russia

The Death of Stalin takes a comic approach from director/co-writer Armando Iannucci when it comes to the death of the Russian dignitary in the 1950s. The all-star cast assembled includes Steve Buscemi, Simon Russell Beale, Paddy Considine, Rupert Friend, Jason Isaacs, Olga Kurylenko, Michael Palin, Andrea Riseborough, Paul Chahdi, Dermot Crowley, Adrian McLaughlin, Paul Whitehouse, and Jeffrey Tambor. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer!  Politics is no easy game to play and there are…

"The Death of Stalin: A Comic Approach to 1950s Russia"