Circle of Friends (1995)

Irish Drama - based on the novel written by Maeve Binchy - Ireland in the 1950's, three girls grow up together and attend the same university in Dublin. Drama begins here as two of them fall for the same guy. Interesting characters, each from different family backgrounds and all struggling to find their individual ways. Benny is strong and warm-hearted, Nan is beautiful to look at but a bit twisted morally, and Eve is the well balanced personality that seems to hold the trio friendship together. Well acted and beautifully photographed. Slow moving but it grabs you in the final chapters. Enjoyable movie. 112 min.

Find Me Guilty (2006)

Courtroom Drama - based on the 1980's trial of Mobster Jackie DiNorscio who refuses to testify against his friends despite offers to reduce his jail sentence. Jackie also refuses a lawyer and insists on representing himself in court despite his limited education. Interesting wiseguy dialogs, and some fine acting, especially by Vin Diesel who plays Jackie DiNorscio. 125 min.

El Secreto de Sus Ojos (2009)

Drama (Spanish with English titles) - The Secret in Their Eyes - a murder mystery set in Buenos Aires. Former court employee is writing a novel, and this digs up a world of memories of events, corruption, love, and denial. Benjamin, the author, is obsessed with the truth of who raped and killed a young and intelligent Argentine woman. He has a drunken co-worker and a woman judge (who he is secretly in love with) as his partners in solving the case. Solid entertainment this is and with some subtle humor. One of the better movies I have seen. 127 min.

Forrest Gump (1994)

Dramedy - Unusually entertaining film about a slightly mentally challenged man with a lot of heart and a lot of luck. Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), our hero, grows up in Alabama and witnesses desegregation, the Vietnam war, and Watergate. Forrest is slow of thought but charismatic and outright honest. His love for his childhood sweatheart (Jenny) inspires him to push for excellence in everything he attempts. Well done movie with fine performances, especially Tom Hanks. 157 min.

The Object of My Affection (1998)

Rom/Com - Young woman falls in love with her gay male roommate. When she becomes pregnant by her arrogant fiance, she asks her roommate to help her raise the child. Interesting story line, and Jennifer Aniston's charm pulls this movie along. 112 min

Wimbledon (2004)

Rom/Com Sports Drama - Tennis love story... British tennis player approaching retirement has a last chance to make a showing at Wimbledon. Struggling with his lack of confidence, he finds belief and inspiration while falling in love with the rising star of women's tennis. Fun performances and nice tennis action, but the story is quite predictable. 100 min.

The Tao of Steve (2000)

Dramedy - Intelligent and philosophical underachiever excels at seducing girls and entertaining his buddies. Interesting things happen when he meets a woman who is not so easily seduced. Fine performances and a fun script. Filmed in beautiful New Mexico. 87 min.

About Schmidt (2002)

Drama - Retired Insurance Salesman (Jack Nicholson) comes to grips with his life, realizing he may have wasted most of it. A most unusual and introverted character, Schmidt is fascinating to watch. And a bit sad. Fine cast includes Kathy Bates. 125 min.

2 Days In The Valley (1996)

Crime Drama with comedy - Olympic skier hires professionals to kill her boyfriend so she can collect life insurance money. As expected, some things go wrong. Lovely views of the San Fernando Valley and a plot that clicks. Fun movie and fun characters. Danny Aiello, Jeff Daniels, James Spayder, Keith Carradine, many more. 105 min.