Heart: The Marilyn Bell Story (2001)

Nov 30, 2006 by Mr. Nau This Canadian made-for-television movie is a dramatization of the first solo swim across Lake Ontario. The acting and photography are typical of such a production — clunky, unpolished, and amateur — while the story is thrilling and inspiring. Caroline Dhavernas is a little too cutesy as the spunky Marilyn […]

An Unfinished Life (2005)

Nov 28, 2006 by Mr. Nau Lasse Hallström directs this beautiful story about the reconciliation of an estranged family ripped apart by tragedy. With Robert Redford and Jennifer Lopez starring, the story takes life with stark realism and remarkable tenderness. The script is well-written and draws the viewer effortlessly into the plight of the characters. […]

Saint Ralph (2004)

Nov 26, 2006 by Mr. Nau Ralph Walker, a troubled student at a private Catholic school whose mother is in a coma, needs a miracle. With the help of a priest, he decides to win the Boston Marathon. This feel-good, against-all-odds adventure hits all the right spots and delivers an unexpectedly satisfying conclusion. Grade: B. […]

Joyeux Noel (2005)

Nov 26, 2006 by Mr. Nau Fighting in the trenches in the First World War was brutal, harsh, and unforgiving. On Christmas Eve 1914, the French, German, and Scottish soldiers on the Western Front initiated an unofficial ceasefire. This picture chronicles this stunning momentary peace and its aftermath, including the military reprimands of the “fraternizing” […]

Scent of a Woman (1992)

Nov 26, 2006 by Mr. Nau This classic film, starring Al Pacino and Chris O’Donnell, has too many memorable moments to count. Spectacularly scripted and cast, the acting in this Oscar-winning adventure set in New York City. So many beautiful scenes makes this delightful picture a must-see for anyone who thinks they love movies. Grade: […]

Edge of Madness (2002)

Nov 26, 2006 by Mr. Nau This period murder mystery set in the Manitoba frontier involves the murder of a homesteader, his wife’s confession, and the investigation surrounding the crime. While carrying the undeniable ambience of a low budget made-for-television movie, the acting seems forced at times, but comes eventually to a satisfying conclusion. Grade: […]

Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

Nov 25, 2006 by Mr. Nau Will Ferrell stars as Harold Crick, the unwitting protagonist in a novel by a famous author who suddenly hears her voice narrating his life. This stunning piece of work features an all-star cast and an endearing story that is never silly, but hilarious, while still touching and refreshingly human. […]

Children of Heaven (1997)

This beautiful picture about a very poor Iranian family shows what a small budget and a focused story can bring to the screen. The stark poverty depicted here is heartbreaking, but the script is never preachy. It simply demonstrates the powerful love and determination among people that have absolutely nothing. Grade: B. IMDB: Children of […]

Frankie Bones – Act Like You Know (2005)

Frankie Bones unleashes a beautiful mix of seventeen original tracks reminiscent of very late nights in dank warehouses. This set ranges from tribal house to straight up banging techno grooves. Clean production and a continuously thumping vibe keep the flow going from start to finish. Wow, is it Friday night yet? Grade: B+. AllMusic: Act […]

Murderball (2005)

An inspiring documentary about wheelchair rugby athletes follows the exploits of the American paralympic team in a brutal take-no-prisoners sport played by quadriplegics with varying levels of motor control. This picture makes it difficult to take other people for granted and makes it even harder to make excuses. Grade: B+. IMDB: Murderball.

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