Judy (2019)

 

Legendary performer Judy Garland arrives in London in the winter of 1968 to perform a series of sold-out concerts. 

Renée Zellweger does her best to portrait Judy Garland in all her complexity, but this biopic focused on the star's final time in London barely conveys the sad vagaries and tragedies of its star's life and career.

 

Paddington 2 (2017)

Paddington, now happily settled with the Brown family and a popular member of the local community, picks up a series of odd jobs to buy the perfect present for his Aunt Lucy's 100th birthday, only for the gift to be stolen.

A sequel equally likeable and entertaining as the original, lively and suspenseful and Hugh Grant perfectly cast as the sneaky villain.

The Good Shepherd (2006)

The tumultuous early history of the Central Intelligence Agency is viewed through the prism of one man's life.

A detailed history lesson exemplified through the biography of a tragic anti-hero.

On second view: subtle and atmospheric, and the cast is impressive.

Maltin***1/2: "Gripping story...De Niro's treatment uses THE GODFATHER as its dramatic template, quite successfully. Damon is excellent and surrounded by well-chosen actors in every part, no matter how small."

The Baker (2007)

A hit man has second thoughts about his career and seeks refuge from his boss by finding work as a baker in a rural Welsh village.

OK British black comedy with a good plot and competent cast, but not as hilarious as one would expect.

Amazing Grace (2006)

The idealist William Wilberforce maneuvers his way through Parliament, endeavoring to end the British transatlantic slave trade.

Tasteful, but unexcited account of an otherwise quite upsetting political struggle with a excellent cast and lovely period details.

Maltin**1/2: "Earnest and enlightening...Impressive roster of actors lends weight to this well-made film, but somehow it never reaches the dramatic heights it should, considering the passionate nature of its protagonist and the nobility of his cause."