Marsha on the Move: October

A collection of movie reviews and opinions from Marsha Gordon:

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

I must admit, I hesitated seeing this movie because of the length, but the “sold out” sign at Jacob Burns Film Center confirmed my husband’s recommendation that we this film… and I am glad that we did. While I am not an expert on the intricacies of Quentin Tarantino’s direction – so it’s worth reading the reviews of some professional critics for this one – I did feel like I was back in the late 1960s.  The 2 ½+ hours was captivating and entertaining.  This is a multidimensional film – a change in Hollywood, the friendship of two men, professional self-doubt and, 50 years after the Manson murders, a fascinating twist.  Most of all, it was a treat to see Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt together (what fun they must have had making this movie… and both still looking so fine).  See the movie – I can pretty-well assure that it will receive Academy Award nominations.

Blinded by the Light

Normally, I don’t go to the movies on a “school night,” but I had a sad day, so seeing “Blinded by the Light,” a true story inspired by a lover of Bruce Springsteen was just the sweet and enjoyable film experience I needed.  But there is more here… family ties , racial prejudice, politics, education and a coming-of-age journey… but mostly it’s a movie that makes you smile at the end.  That’s what I love about the movies – for me, they’re an escape when I need one.

Judy

This movie is so sad. It’s slow moving and difficult to watch, but worth seeing for the incredible performance of Renée Zellweger, who most certainly will receive a nomination for an Oscar for her portrayal of this great performer. Thumbs-up for Renée.

The Peanut Butter Falcon

I found myself for the first time in a Saturday morning movie (thank you, Alamo Drafthouse!), and what a great way to have started my weekend.  This is a feel-good movie if there ever was one.  It follows a young man with Down Syndrome (played by marvelous actor Zack Gottsagen) who is escaping a stifling living situation and finds a man who escaping as well, with a huge heart, motivating personality and acceptance. The love shown in this film makes you wish it was a true story, so let it live in your heart and mind – and enjoy!   Put this on your “to watch” list and smile.

Brittany Runs a Marathon

To be honest, I didn’t expect much more than a successful “weight loss” story, so was pleasantly surprised when this became a “life gains” story. The film’s protagonist, Brittany, lost a lot of weight, but in the process she gained a sense of self, true friendship and more… She doesn’t need the scale to prove where she is (or isn’t) in life.  I must admit, there were times I didn’t like her very much, but I recognize that the behavior she shows is part of the impenetrable wall she builds around her.  I’m so glad the wall came tumbling down. This film provides its viewer with some hearty laughs and cries along the way.

Downton Abbey

The King and Queen are coming to Downton Abbey.  Bring out the incredible clothes, fine silver and china, best food, gorgeous music, and all that is required to prepare the palace for the royals – pageantry at its best. Add in a community filled with excitement. Of course, being Downton Abbey, add in a bit of intrigue, some thievery, a potential assassination, envy, competition and back-biting – all of course for the greater good of making Downton the best. What makes this movie, and of course the series that it is based from, so great is that beneath all of this, what seems like stuffiness, are really good people who ultimately care for each other, transcend social classes with friendship and love, and who want to break out of the social, sexual and class molds in which they are expected to live.  Downton Abbey is more than a magnificent building, it is indeed the heart of the community.  May this kind and good heart keep beating. I loved seeing all of these wonderful, delicious characters, who now leap from television to the movies, and I can’t wait for the next one.

Dr. Marsha Gordon is President/CEO of The Business Council of Westchester. When she is not advocating for business, building the economy or creating job opportunities, you can find her at the movie theatre enjoying many different film genres.  Most of the time, her husband Eli is with her… except if it is football season or if it is a very slow, sappy movie.