2017 Movies I watched

Much better than I expected... in fact, not what I expected. Interesting view from a documentarian discovering previously unseen layers in his parents' marriage. Highly recommended... 8/10.

Interesting documentary of a grandson asking "Why?" after surprising artifacts are found in his grandmother's flat after her passing. Also highlights the differences in generational and cultural perspectives, which can be baffling at times... for each party, I'm sure. Recommended... 7/10.

Visually dazzling. Unfortunately, I found myself constantly thinking, "How did they do that?" or "That wouldn't happen!" May have been due to my own flaws, rather than actual flaws in the movie. Highly recommended... 8/10

Funny (and formulaic) movie, but this franchise has steered WAY off from the magic of the original. If you're in the mood for the equivalent of cinematic ice cream... and have enjoyed each of it's predecessors in the franchise... it could be a fun way to spend an evening. 6/10.

Funny concept, luxe sets and atmosphere, but suffers from a non-existent plot. Very disappointing. Not recommended... 3/10.

At once visually beautiful and emotionally sorrowful, this film may bring closure to some and awareness to others.

However, I think it ultimately is a wasted opportunity... rather than debunk or remove the "glamour" that may draw a suicidal person to the bridge, I think the way it's edited does the opposite, and has a glamourizing effect... most especially with the final quote of the film. There was another quote in the movie that could have been more impactful in that final slot to reduce the allure of the bridge, had that been the filmmaker's true intent.

Suicide has devastating effects, and that truth should not be gilded over.

The movie opens with Dan, a widowed father. Seeing little hope of finding love again, he has devoted himself to his family and work. After a chance encounter with a woman rekindles that hope, he quickly realizes she is off-limits since she is the new girlfriend of his younger brother. This is the touching, intimate story of a man who is trying to do the right thing. As a chronically single, single parent, I found Dan to be entirely relatable, and I thought that the writer, director, and Carell did excellent work in their portrayal of him, as well as his family dynamics. Highly recommended. 9/10.

NOTE: Do not let the fact that Steve Carell is the star mislead you... this is NOT a raucous comedy. If you're in the mood for something hilarious, this isn't it. Come back when you're in the mood for something more emotional.