DARK WATERS (Released to Theaters USA 2019)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì

Dark Waters—good exploration of big money versus small money—easily becomes one of the better films on the market because of story and the way the story is presented. WOW! It doesn't run like the Erin Brockovich movie but it does move along well, has good characterization, and makes its point without preaching.

Film Poster Courtesy of IMDb

Storyline

A farmer approaches Lawyer Rob Bilott and claims that his cows are dying unexpectedly. He claims that the creek near his house is contaminated by a nearby industrial plant runoff. 

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Todd Haynes for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Mark Ruffalo, Christine Vachon, and Pamela Koffler for making the film possible. Cast includes Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins, Bill Camp, Victor Garber, Mare Winningham, and Bill Pullman.

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. This is a great watch. The scenes move along well. Although it is environmentally-themed, it uses scenes in the story to make its point rather than argumentation.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

NEWS OF THE WORLD (Theatrical Release USA 2020)

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì 

News of the World—well written and interesting storyline—runs as a simple, straightforward movie but still requires a ‘sit down and watch’ viewing as the movie has several unexpected twists and turns that provide understanding for the conclusion.  Watch for a very good performance by child actress Helena Zengel and notice how Tom Hanks underscores her efforts with a wonderful low-key presentation of his role. The western scenery and the interaction with Native Americans are refreshing and are supported with good camerawork. Helena Zengel’s use of foreign singing as well as her movement between Native American, German, and American culture is well done. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

This western film is about: a man whose occupation is to travel to small towns and read the world news to the inhabitants. On his travels he meets an orphan girl. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Paul Greengrass for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Tore Schmidt, Steve Shareshian for making the film possible. Cast includes: Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel, Tom Astor, Travis Johnson, Andy Kastelic, Ray McKinnon, Mare Winningham, Jeffery Ware, Chris Bylsma, and Justin Tade.

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. The story is great and Tom Hanks performs at his usual level of professionalism. 

Video Critique Available Here: 

Ben Meyers