Review by John Delia
Bittersweet, the film Golden Voices tells the story of a 62 year old Jewish Russian couple Victor (Vladimir Friedman) and Raya Frenkel (Maria Belkin) that relocates to Israel in the 1980’s following the dissolving of the USSR. Famous for their voice dubbing of movie films in Russian, the two find it difficult to find similar work in a country that speaks mainly Hebrew. Adding to that, Israel’s neighboring countries are still at war with them and not accepting their independent status. Read more…
Review By John Delia
An interesting view of WWII the movie Secret Weapon involves a mission of no return. The true story comprises a little known mission that, because of its goal, saved many Russian lives from the German invasion. The locations, costumes/wardrobe, firearms, German trucks and much more adds to the storyline giving it a measure of realism. The film does give the feel of the movie The Dirty Dozen, but considering the low budget production, does not come up to that level. Just as a suggestion, the film is best seen played in Russian with English subtitles to get better expression from the character roles and more realism. It does however, have an option of English dubbing that actually isn’t very convincing playing it that way. Read more…
Review by John Delia
A film like Beanpole does not come around that often, but when it does it’s a must see for film buffs and indie lovers who like to wrap their brains around an amazing film that challenges the mind. It’s outstanding and powerful! Set in Russia, the movie tells a haunting story of two women that have to come to grips with life after WWII. It’s the perfect movie that has excellent direction, awesome acting and a daunting storyline. It was Russia’s entry for the 2020 Oscars and chosen in their top 10. It is available at select theaters and soon on VOD and other media. Read more…
Review by John Delia
Disgusting and very violent the movie Mon Mon Mon Monsters! has a one of a kind plot that should have you cringing and retching, and those are the good parts. If you are a fan of horror that likes films that repulses more than it scares, then you can revel in this “monsterpiece†that comes out today on Blu-ray and DVD. When you do get a copy, slide the video into your player, step back away from the TV set, take a deep breath, make sure you have a barf bucket handy and press play. Read more…
Review by John Delia
Taking a lot of liberties while giving a cinematic interpretation of a time in his life, Pedro Almodovar movie Pain & Glory is as expressive as Roma. His directorial and screenwriting is by far some of the best I’ve seen by the famous director and yes there’s a spark of surprise in this one as in every one of his films. Taking extra liberties he even shocks his audience at one point. That said, if you are a fan of Almodovar’s films than you will not want to miss the amazing performances that bring the man’s film to the big screen. Read more…
Review by John Delia
The film Tel Aviv on Fire is a comedy of sorts that entertains with a duel story. The acting is very good and so is the direction, but the very contrived storyline is a matinee soap opera that lacks brilliance. Not my cup of tea, the movie bounces around a bit too much and if you are not aware of the ethnic differences between Israel and Palestine, it may confuse. Read more…
Review by John Delia
A good choice as one of the five nominated films for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Film, Capernaum, comes to theaters this Friday well before Oscar night. It’s definitely worthy of a win, but the competition is very stiff with other titles having already run the gamut for a Golden Globe. But, this film is very special with a lot of heart and involves the strife the middle-east has been experiencing. Released in the USA in its native language of Arabic with some Amharic and other mid-east dialects, the movie depicts the determination, defiance and struggle of one boy who represents a part of the downtrodden lifestyle in a challenging nation. Read more…
Review by John Delia, Sr.
Touching and heartbreaking the story of The Last Suit (El Ultimo Traje) comes to the USA with superb acting and excellent direction. It’s that special journey drama with heart that many filmmaker have attempted, but only a number have accomplished. Add Pablo Solarz to the group, because what he has achieved with The Last Suit should make him a member, it’s that good. The Last Suit is remarkable, seek it out and enjoy. Read more…
Review by John Delia, Sr.
Mind boggling, the film In the Fade takes you on a path to revenge that doesn’t let up till the final minute of the movie. With a stellar performance by Diane Kruger and fine direction by Fatih Akin the film stands out as one of the best foreign films of 2018. If you like compelling movies that touch the edgy side of the headlines, then this film will work for you. Read more…
Review by John Delia, Sr.
The dark comedy The Square delivers a message not unfamiliar considering today’s upheaval involving the brotherhood of man. In the Ruben Ostlund’s film, that takes place in Sweden, a statement is made to the meaning of “The Square†an exhibit at a museum. It states simply “The Square is a sanctuary of trust and caring. Within its boundaries we all share equal rights and obligations.†So sets the tone for this bizarre look into society’s relationships with each other and the division of wealth that fuels the fire. Read more…
