Trask Avenue

These brief, one sentence movie reviews return after an extended winter hibernation. The complete list can be found here.

Grand Budapest Hotel, The (2014) – As “Wes Andersony” as anything he has directed this affectionate nod to Old World Europe is both exquisite and plodding. (3) – 4/10/14

Big Heat, The (1953) – Atmospheric delight with revenge-fueled detective and spurned moll trying to take down insidious syndicate remains highly engrossing. (3½) – 4/10/14

American Hustle (2013) – Relentlessly paced, cleverly plotted, endlessly layered, and beautifully acted tale of high-stakes greed sizzles and seduces. (4) – 4/10/14

Exorcist, The (1973) – Even after four decades of imitators this film remains the touchstone for heart-stopping jolts and supernatural creepiness. (4) – 4/10/14

Naked City, The (1948) – Dismissing the leprechaun images conjured by Barry Fitzgerald’s voice helps elevate this enjoyable “one in eight million” crime story. (3) – 4/10/14

Mama (2013) – Compelling premise and promising start make the last half of this film that much more disappointing. (2) – 4/10/14

Key Largo (1948) – Bogie and Bacall light it up as hostages dealing with murder, gangsters, Seminoles, and a hurricane in this noir thriller. (3½) – 4/10/14

Nebraska (2013) – This wonderful, sublime film may be monochrome and monotone in delivery, but is complex and powerful in impact. (4) – 4/10/14

Zombieland (2009) – A deadly funny journey through a post-zomblistic world is brought to life by stellar performances and Twinkies lust. (3½) – 4/10/14

King and I, The (1956) – A commanding turn by Yul Brynner guides this dated musical through culture clashes, melodramatic twists, etc. etc. etc. (3) – 4/10/14