Mike Goes To Movies

TIFF: Honey Boy (2019) Yes, yes, I know TIFF has long come and gone but I still have one more review to espouse upon the masses. Honey Boy, written by and starring Shia LaBeouf, is his very personal story of his life growing up in the limelight with his father, James Lort. The film is powerfully moving, at times disturbing and also enlightening into the early life of this troubled actor and his later life attempting to coming to terms with and moving forward into a less-destructive way of life. It is a true testament to the talent of LaBeouf, both in his acting and writing, as well as that of Noah Jupe and Lucas Hedges (who play versions of LaBeouf at different points in his life) as well as Alma Ha'rel who makes her feature directorial debut here. As most of us know, throughout the past number of years Shia LaBeouf has been at the forefront of many tabloid-esque stories, often showcasing eccentric and/or anti-social displays and run-ins with various individuals. Though none ...

TIFF: Knives Out (2019) It is no surprise that Rian Johnson enjoys his genre films, particularly those involving mysteries, twists and intricate plots. We have already seen him tackle classic noir with Brick and the big con with The Brothers Bloom, and with this year's Knives Out he moves on to an even older mystery genre - the detective caper. Like Brick did for Raymond Chandler, Knives Out is a contemporary retelling of a Christie or Conan Doyle story involving a high profile death, a cast of exaggerated characters - each with an intriguing backstory rife with possible motive - and, of course, a renowned detective. For the most part Johnson hits all of the right notes with this film, although the back half tends to meander more and loses some of its momentum as the plot focuses down on only a few of the characters as well as some long-winded exposition and explanation that guides the final moments. There is a lot to enjoy with Knives Out. As many have seen in trailer or pos...

TIFF: Uncut Gems (2019) Okay, so apologies for the lack of reviews coming out lately. I've been a bit busy running around to TIFF films this past week but I finally now have some time to sit down for a bit and begin writing about these awesome and exciting films I've seen at the festival. First up is Uncut Gems - who's ready for more Safdie Brothers praise from mikegoestomovies??  The Brothers Safdie - Josh and Benny's - newest thriller stars Adam Sandler as Howard Ratner, a jewelry store owner / dealer who can't help but inject himself into shady deal after deal in order to chase the biggest score possible while simultaneously pulling everyone in his life into his dangerous and chaotic lifestyle. Uncut Gems bears many similarities to the brothers' previous outings. It has a quasi-documentary feel featuring floating cameras and lots of improvisational dialogue. Like Good Time, the plot is like a rolling snowball where the inciting event at the film...