jamescentre

Just in time for Valentine's Day, I came across this wonderfully charming film that presents a realistic portrayal of love that viewers can identify with. 1 Night's central characters are believable and relatable, which allows us to become invested in the story and the authentic chemistry between the two couples. The dialogue is sharp, and the ending (unlike a lot of romantic films) is truly thought provoking. Each of the four lead actors, whom normally work less dramatic roles, deliver fantastic performances, proving that they are forces to be reckoned with in Hollywood. I thought the cinematography was top-notch, and the film's use of warm lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere. 1 Night is a wonderful commentary of love, life, and personal growth, making it a choice selection for this Valentine's Day.

The Beat Beneath My Feet is a deliciously entertaining musical romp that is sure to inspire dreamers of all ages. The film tells the story of Tom (Nicholas Galitzine), a painfully shy high schooler determined to become a rock star. When Tom discovers that his unruly neighbor (90210's Luke Perry) is actually a "dead" grunge musician with a mountain of unpaid debt, he gives his neighbor an ultimatum: teach him how to become a great singer-songwriter or else he will expose his secret to the world. Perry and Galitzine have amazing chemistry, both delivering brilliantly believable performances as two birds with broken wings. What's particularly notable about this film are its musical sequences. Director John Williams (who directed music videos for Radiohead and Coldplay) manages to orchestrate surreal and truly fascinating musical episodes (featuring rockin' original music) that intelligently parallel what is happening in the story. The Beat Beneath My Feat is a delightful good time that features Luke Perry at the top of his game, and will likely make a star out of talented newcomer Galitzine.

The Caretaker is a thoroughly engaging and deeply disturbing new entry into the horror film genre. The cat-and-mouse game between the well-intentioned Mallorie (Meegan Warner) and her deeply troubled grandmother (Sondra Blake) delivers satisfying screams, thanks largely to the film's eerie, Polanski-esque sense of atmosphere. Director Jeff Prugh impressively maximizes the film's fear potential without the use of extravagant special effects or an obscene amount of gore, instead using lighting, music, and character development to create a building sense of dread. And the atmosphere works like a charm, with the film's final moments leaving viewers in absolute terror. The Caretaker is a gloriously effective chiller that is sure to haunt viewers for days afterwards.

Chief Zabu is an intelligently written comedy that brilliantly satirizes global politics and the American dream. Although the film was shot thirty years ago, many of the jokes still land perfectly, as they still relate to today's current political climate. Allen Garfield and Zack Norman share a wonderful on-screen chemistry as two ambitious real estate developers dreaming of wealth and success. When these two friends learn that they can capitalize on a small Polynesian island, what ensues is a hilariously engaging plot to gain control of the tropical land. The quick-paced nature of the dialogue adds a level of realism to the film, making it all the more engrossing. What is perhaps most impressive was that the filmmakers were able make the film look so good on such a modest budget (just under 188 thousand dollars). Chief Zabu scores as a believable and deliciously intriguing send-up.

Citizen Soldier is a fantastic documentary that fully immerses you in the American National Guard experience, showing both the soldier's mundane daily activities as well as the terrifying realities of combat. Following an infantry-brigade's tour through Afghanistan, the film brilliantly displays the bond that is forged between men and women serving their country: a bond that gives them the strength to keep fighting. In addition to all this, the film smartly follows its' brave subjects after the war, allowing viewers to get a feel for soldiers' struggles adjusting to civilian life. The film is a powerfully moving tribute to American soldiers that respectfully shows what they sacrifice for this nation without being sappy about it. I would highly recommend this documentary. It doesn't matter if you are a bleeding heart liberal or a hawkish conservative: this film is that good.

Blood in the Water tells the story of a dangerous love triangle tangled in a web of greed and deception. Willa Holland and Alex Russel star as Veronica and Percy, a young New York couple who have been tasked with care-taking a luxurious L.A. home for the summer. Along comes their old college buddy Freedgood (Miguel Gomez) who comes to them with an alluring but dangerous business proposition. But when the couple learns that Freedgood is looking for more from them than just a little bit of assistance, this leads to a downward spiral into violence and betrayal. Featuring a colorful set and fantastic cinematography, Blood in the Water kept me on the edge of my seat!