Condensed Cinema Critiques (mixed bag, 2014): varied

Reviewed by e Howard Green.  Viewed at SBIFF sites, February, 2015

A number of the films have been seen but not selected for standard reviews, but are deserving of brief mention.   These critiques may help others to evaluate their suitability.

I feel a responsibility to make this effort, particularly given the limited number of films which can be seen.  This is particularly true in the ultimate days of the Festival when the ‘TBA’ slots are finally filled.

This may also be of interest during the weekend of February 13-15 when selected films will be shown at the Riviera Theatre free to Santa Barbara audiences. Those chosen are announced via the SBIFF web site on Monday, February 9th (often very late in the day).

Your tastes will differ of course; these notes are from an older man’s, non-film-studies viewer’s perspective.

Villa Toumba.   A depressing story of a teenage girl being pushed into marriage by Aunts who have very different values.  She finds a lover not meeting their ideals, with naturally bad outcomes.

Secret Oceans 3D.  Featured at the tribute to the Cousteau Family.  Spectacular shots of fish faces and other underwater scenes.  Best left to the iMax crowd or marine lovers.

Partners in Crime.  Somewhat confusing because not all of the textual clues are translated and the identity or relationship of some of the female characters is a mystery.  Leaves one with a big question as to ‘Who (or what) done it’ to the lead boy character.  Lots of flashbacks contribute to uncertainty.

Keep On Keepin’ On.  Lively story with much jazz music, but outcome is pretty much self evident.  Worthwhile mostly only for the music itself.  My friend liked it very much and was pleased to meet in person the talented performer and learn he has future gigs lined up.

Gett.  Two hours of legal torture for the poor woman, and even poorer audience.

Eighty-Seven.  Interesting story line jumping back and forth over 15 year span, finally getting to the reason for the absence after, ah ha, eighty seven minutes (actually slightly earlier, just seemed that long).

Citizenfour.  Seen previously and highly recommended for its information and background on publishing of the Snowden revelations.

Beatles.  Simple-minded story of four lads using their interest in rock-‘n’ roll to try to grow up.  Go only if you care about little boys trying to become big boys or teen-age dating habits in Norway in the 1970s.