Journalist, Author & Syndicated Columnist
Based on the true-life story of Chris Gardner, a San Francisco salesman forced at times to shelter his young son (played by Smith’s adorable look-alike offspring Jaden Smith) in a men’s room, there is little suspense to “The Pursuit of Happyness” in terms of Chris’ outcome. (His story and eventual accomplishment as a successful and wealthy Chicago businessman was well-publicized on the newsmagazine show 20/20.)
A comedy aimed at the inner kid in all of us, “Unaccompanied Minors” provides a few laughs and some good acting by its young thespian stars. But the hyuck fest doesn’t offer enough substance, or even some so-bad-it’s-good vignettes, to hold the viewer’s interest for long.
A disturbing film about a recovering drug addict trying to regain control of her life, “Sherrybaby” succinctly depicts what can happen when want and desire aren’t offset by control. In this bleak indie film, Sherry Swanson (Maggie Gyllenhaal, Stranger Than Fiction, Secretary) has just been released from a three-year stint in prison. Dressed in her inappropriate uniform of a halter top and oh-so-high platform heels, she goes to brother’s house to see her 5-year-old daughter, Lexie (Ryan Simpkins).
The movie has some sweet moments, but doesn’t spend enough time delving into the challenges of being part of an Asperger’s couple. The problems that they have in their relationship (insecurity, commitment and communication problems) really aren’t that different from that of your “normal” couple.
A slapstick comedy starring Matthew Broderick and Danny DeVito, “Deck The Halls” tackles the Christmas spirit with lights, music, and plenty o’ pratfalls–none of which makes much sense in this floundering film. Steve Finch (Broderick) is a persnickety dentist who enjoys being the town’s go-to guy when it comes to all things Christmas. Buddy Hall (DeVito) is his new neighbor–a car salesman who finds that decorating the exterior of his house in bright, garish decorations and lights makes him feel like the big man he never was
A compelling film that delves into the lives of young women with eating disorders, the HBO documentary Thin offers sobering insight into why anyone would sacrifice her health for the pursuit of unrealistic body perfection. Set in a Florida clinic that specializes in treating patients with bulimia (binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting) and anorexia (consuming barely enough to survive), the film introduces viewers to four women.
A bittersweet film about a Chinese-American family living in New York, “Red Doors” offers moments of humor as well as emotional triumph.
A feel-good movie that highlights the beauty of France as much as it does its stars, “A Good Year” provides a languid, gorgeous viewing experience. Director Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe–who first worked together on the Academy Award-winning “Gladiator”–are reunited in this romantic film, which is based on Peter Mayle’s book “A Year in Provence.”
Penelope Cruz is an anomaly. As talented as she is gorgeous, the 32-year-old thesp has defied categorization. At a time when actresses complain about a lack of juicy roles for women, Cruz balances a career that includes Hollywood blockbusters and foreign films in which she speaks fluent Italian, French and her native Spanish. She’s a red-carpet favorite, and during her off-time, she’s not above punking her good friend Salma Hayek.
A film adaptation of Dito Montiel’s memoir of the same name, “A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints” is a compelling, thoughtful movie based on Montiel’s childhood growing up in 1980s Queens.