“Before Night Falls” isn’t a great film, but it does feature a great performance from Javier Bardem, one of Spain’s leading exports. As Cuban poet and writer Reinaldo Arenas, Bardem delivers a soulful performance filled with understanding and understatement. If only the film was as brave and bold. Read the rest of this entry »

A crime has been committed, and once again it’s society that has to pay. Unless of course you read this review, then you can save yourself seven hard-earned dollars by skipping Clint Eastwood’s “True Crime.” Read the rest of this entry »

BLACKOUT, THE (R)

Despite an interesting cast, this long-on-the-shelf drama (it was originally shot in 1997) fails to capture the grit and intensity of director Abel Ferrara’s best work, including “Bad Lieutenant” and “The Addiction.” Matthew Modine plays Matty, a movie star who finds satisfaction in Miami Beach’s underground nightlife. Read the rest of this entry »

Even though I was only seven, I remember how sad the world felt when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. I couldn’t comprehend why I got to stay home from school that day, or why everyone in my family looked stunned. All I knew is that a great man had died. Read the rest of this entry »

BASE, THE (R)

Action star Mark Dacascos (“Double Dragon”) does just fine in this moderately entertaining thriller about a U.S. Army Special Forces agent who suspects that his base is being used by drug cartels to move product. When his suspicions prove right, John Murphy (Dacascos) learns that the conspiracy involves a base Sergeant (Tim Abell) and his men. Read the rest of this entry »

“Black Hawk Down” is to entertainment what Rosanne is to song stylist. You don’t enter director Ridley Scott’s harrowing war drama looking to be entertained. It’s more of an experience, one that you won’t soon forget. Read the rest of this entry »