Movie Recommendations

Michael Keaton pulls off a surprisingly good take on the Bruce Wayne/Batman split personality, and the tone as a whole is welcomely dark, not campy. A pity the obligatory romance falls so flat.

Slightly uneven Capra take on media cynicism and human redemption is nonetheless an entertaining and thought-provoking film.

When pampered Clifford Peache transfers to a Chicago public school and runs afoul of a protection ring, he decides to enlist the help of a feared school misfit. A moving story of friendship, understanding, and courage.

Mystery writer Phillip Marlow [sic] replays old memories and the plot of his best-selling book while fighting psoriasis and hallucinations. A groundbreaking original.

As usual, Rob Reiner—ably abetted by Jack Nicholson, Kiefer Sutherland, Tom Cruise, Demi Moore, and Kevin Bacon—elevates his material. Adapted by Aaron Sorkin from his play.

One of the great unknown films. A thoughtful, brooding western about a gunman/outlaw who is hounded everywhere by young fast guns wanting to prove they’re faster on the draw than the great Jimmie Ringo. Ringo himself (Gregory Peck) just wants to reunite with his wife and son and settle down.

Perhaps the first psychological western. John Ford took a fairly hackneyed story and breathed new life into the western. What makes it a standout are the portrayals of the almost stereotypical cast of characters. John Wayne went from B western hero to major movie star with this one film; Claire Trevor is excellent as the…

Rob Reiner’s modern take on It Happened One Night sets John Cusack cross-country for a sure fling; but traveling companion Daphne Zuniga may be his real interest.

The first installment may even deserve an A for its inventiveness and humor. As usual, additional installments were progressively less appealing.

An NYC subway train is hijacked. But with their every move tracked, how will the crooks escape with their ransom?