First Word

Gravity Rating: ***** This film is the best of the season -- and one of the first films I've seen in months that I gave a perfect rating. Starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney (yes, only two actors), Bullock's Dr. Ryan Stone's character carries most of the film. On one hand, the film is a typical struggle-to-survive tale, and on the other hand it's a spiritual metaphor about the will to live and take action in your life. The story opens with our astronauts out on a routine space walk and mission. Light banter ensues and a notation that Dr. Stone isn't feeling well up in weightless space. The story quickly moves to a life-or-death challenge as space debris from a destroyed satellite unexpectedly hurls at destructive speeds toward the shuttle and its passengers. The plot point is how are Clooney's character and Dr. Stone going to survive after their ship is destroyed? (And I'll leave it at that as to not spoil the fun.) What is captivating is how...

I don't go to movies often anymore. I either don't have time or nothing seems worth the price of admission. This week, though, I was presented with time and a good movie. I went to see the new George Clooney film The Descendants , a rare adult drama worth the ticket price. Now if you're searching for an uplifting, fun ride, this film is not for you. It is not a popcorn flick by any means. This heartfelt story is about a husband on the eve of being left a widow as his comatose wife lay dying, and he now must rise to the occasion of being a hands-on Dad. He also unfortunately discovers his wife had taken a lover. This revelation obviously turns his world upside down and gives Clooney another vehicle to show off his acting skills. I suspect he might be up for yet another award for this one. The young actresses who play his daughters also deliver the emotional goods and give an organic, realistic and un-self-conscious performance. I particularly enjoy the somewhat stupid boyfri...