Mark's Movie Reviews

We saw “All the Money in the World” last night. This is the film that costarred Kevin Spacey, but when the sexual scandal surfaced they refilmed all of his scenes with Christopher Plummer in less than 30 days. It’s the story of the kidnapping of J. Paul Getty’s grandson. Getty was the richest man in the world and refused to pay the ransom. Like most Ridley Scott films it is brilliantly filmed. I do not normally like Michelle Williams because I find her acting stagey, but in this film she was natural and quite good. Christopher Plummer adds another great performance to his resume, playing a miser who only loves money. I am not sure if it will get any awards but it is a very good movie.

Welcome to my new blog. Instead of putting my reviews on Facebook, I am going to use this site. It’s a great way to end 2017 and start the new year. Here goes.

Last night I saw “The Greatest Showman” which is a highly fictionalized story of P.T. Barnum. The main criticism about the film is that it takes liberties with the true story. Yes, much of the plot is made up. If you want historical accuracy, go see “The Darkest Hour”. This is a film that reminded me of those made in the heyday of the MGM musicals. Light, entertaining and the musical numbers are inspired.

The film stars Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron who are back in a musical again. The supporting cast is made up of the people who society deemed not normal, like Tom Thumb and the bearded lady. The songs are by the same team that did “La La Land” last year and are even better. And the production numbers are big and fun.

This is not a film that will win Best Picture, but it is entertaining, beautifully done and magical. If you’re looking for reality and drama, stay away. On the other hand, if you are in the mood for a film that will make you smile and hum some tunes, go see it.