Secrets of the Virgin Queen (2010)

“Reboot” can be crass and has much room to improve, but with investments of time and care, could flower out of the seed of a vision. 

It’s easy to dismiss Joel and Ethan Coen for writing from the world they build from outside the box of overarching Hollywood stereotypes, but their inability to compromise their collective vision is precisely what makes the simplistic nature of their world-building and characters so brilliant. It’s also what led Fargo to collect seven Oscar nominations and two wins for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actress for Frances McDormand’s brilliant portrayal of the sincere, motherly detective whose wholesome demeanor seizes the day over the selfishness, corruption and evil of the men who don’t comprehend that there’s more to life than a little money.

The Olivia Wilde renaissance is upon us.

For a troubled teen, Will discovers what is important in life when he attends a summer camp: the people who care about his well being.

Shadow & Bone excels in natural story representation with powerful centering of culture. Jessie Mei Li stars as Alina Starkov, the feisty cartographer with kindness, innocence, and integrity, who comes to be revealed as the legendary summoner of light.

Kate Winslet and Saorise Ronan deliver stellar performances in a film that doesn't live up to its potential.