Irrelevant But Awesome

Chris:  This is the 2nd Shakespeare adaptation we’ve seen in Summer of Netflix and, like Much Ado, Coriolanus is given a modern setting. Coriolanus isn’t exactly one of Shakespeare’s famous plays as it’s one rarely even performed or discussed so it’s easy to go into this movie without knowing anything about the play. I enjoyed this particular portrayal because it felt like a longer/better written episode of Kings, the short-lived NBC drama that depicted the early days of King David in a modern setting and I’m sure I’m the only die-hard fan of this show. Both have that militant/geo-politics modernness setting but with language that often feels epic but not quite out-of-place, at least that’s how it felt to me. Also, I’ve really gotten into FX’s drama, Tyrant and has some of those same elements. This was Ralph Fiennes directorial debut as well as playing the titular character with Gerard Butler playing Aufidius, however, it’s Vanessa Redgrave that steals the show with her cha...

Alexa:  Few movies nowadays feel wholly original, but In Bruges has the distinction of being one of them. I watched it for the first time years ago but hadn’t seen it since until now, and I forgot how masterful and immensely entertaining it is. Martin McDonagh crafted a whip-smart screenplay that’s darkly funny without turning the hitmen at the center of the story into caricatures. Before this movie, I knew Colin Farrell as that guy from Phone Booth and SWAT, but In Bruges proved what a talented actor he really is. It doesn’t hurt that he’s surrounded by equally outstanding cast mates who deliver nuanced performances with ease, particularly Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes. Though the film’s climax is action-packed, the story overall is rather introspective, underscoring the characters’ humanity as they grapple with guilt, regret and their complicated friendships. That In Bruges succeeds in intertwining humor, action and quiet character study so sublimely is a testament to Mc...