Black Sea (2014)

Black Sea (2014)

In order to make good with his former employers, a submarine captain takes a job with a shadowy backer to search the depths of the Black Sea for a submarine rumored to be loaded with gold.

Well-made, if not particularly original submarine adventure with a capable cast does manage to create some suspense, but no surprises.

Whitney (2018)

An in-depth look at the life and music of Whitney Houston.

Extensive documentary follows the success story of a truly singular talent, her dowfall and the harrowing and saddening last years before her premature death.

State of Play (2009)

When a congressional aide is killed, a Washington D.C. journalist starts investigating the case involving the congressman, his old college friend.

Solid direction and good cast don't quite make this more than a standard conspiracy thriller; the twist ending disappointingly disavaows any political implications made before.

Maltin**1/2: "Engrossing, well-cast thriller is also a paean to the dying newspaper business - but drops the ball at the finale, which simply isn't satisfying."

The Eagle (2011)

In Roman-ruled Britain, a young Roman soldier endeavors to honor his father's memory by finding his lost legion's golden emblem.

Basically well-made historic action-adventure, but not particularly original; not suitable for educational purposes about history.

Maltin***: "Old-fashioned sword-and-sandal adventure...Characters are well developed, and the battles are nicely staged, against gorgeous Scottish scenery. Bell shines and Tatum at least looks the part. Director McDonald certainly understands the genre but injects a classic western bravado that gives the enterprise an air of freshness."