Category Archives: Film Reviews

Film reviews and analyses. Most recently published is in front.

Hugo

Posted on December 14, 2011 by Mark DuPré

Entrancing, enthralling, visually stunning. A cinematic paean to the magic of movies. A film history lesson and a cry for preservation from film’s most famous preservation advocate. There is nothing out there quite like it. What’s good: the look. It … Continue reading →

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Courageous

Posted on December 14, 2011 by Mark DuPré

I have to completely let go of my professor/film critic hat when I talk about this movie. That’s OK, and it’s not just because I am a Christian or that I have a little (tiny, actually) connection with one of … Continue reading →

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Casablanca

Posted on November 30, 2011 by Mark DuPré

A must-see for too many reasons to count. Yes, it was a surprise hit, striking America’s war-weary heart in the middle of the Second World War. Yes, it won Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. And of course … Continue reading →

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Road to Perdition

Posted on November 30, 2011 by Mark DuPré

One my film class films. Actually, it’s the first one I show. It’s slower-moving than most films, which is one reason I show it. I want the students to focus on what they are SEEING. The film, which deservedly won … Continue reading →

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The Muppets

Posted on November 30, 2011 by Mark DuPré

A rare delight. Perfect for families, and witty and fun for adults—the kind of “movie they don’t make anymore.” I wasn’t a Muppet fan, though I had nothing against them. So I went in with no feelings for or against … Continue reading →

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J. Edgar

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Mark DuPré

Ultimately, J. Edgar doesn’t work. Beautiful to look at, as are most of Eastwood’s films. And the acting is generally good. But there is a perspective conflict between the director and the screenwriter, and a conflict over which story is … Continue reading →

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