“Gangster Squad”: Worth the wait for a history buff

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Los Angeles has a highly documented history of gang violence and organized crime.  After World War Two there was a well-known criminal that was “wrapping the West Coast up in a pretty little bow,” to quote Sean Penn’s dangerous character, Mickey Cohen. Mickey Cohen had the reigns of Los Angeles and was directing it towards a path of violence, danger, murder, and a whole lot of money in the pockets of the wrong people.  Continue Reading

“The Man with the Iron Fists” is a gory good time…some of the time

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Within the first two minutes of RZA’s directorial debut, The Man with the Iron Fists, we see a man’s arms get pulled out of his sockets in a Kung Fu dinner brawl. And so the dominant tone of gory, zany unexpectedness that’s embedded in RZA’s flick is sprung upon us rather quickly. By the time the end credits invade the screen, we’ll have seen enough dismembered and punctured body parts to fill an episode of The Walking Dead. Yes, The Man with the Iron Fists likes extra servings of blood with its screen time, but there’s also some fun and laughs to be found amidst the guts strewn about the floor. Just watch where you step. Continue Reading

Ben Affleck is adept at creating suspense in “Argo”

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Based on a declassified true story about a daring and deceptive rescue attempt in the aftermath of the Iran hostage crisis of 1979, Argo is a film that is sure to make you break out in an apprehensive sweat thanks to its expert direction and spot-on performances. Ben Affleck not only takes the lead acting reigns, but also directs. He takes this period piece as far as it can go, which turns out to be a pretty impressive distance. Continue Reading

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is poignant perfection

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The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a unique and bold take on the traditional coming-of-age storyline. Yes, a high school freshman has trouble fitting in. Yes, there are members of cliques clustered together in the cafeteria. And yes, there is an “untouchable” girl the protagonist pines for. But this film rips deeper than many in its genre by taking a long, focused look at uncomfortable topics like death in the family, suicide, LSD, depression, homophobia, and physical and mental abuse. And oh yeah, there’s also enough comedy to make you laugh till your jaw is sore. Continue Reading