What’s not to love? A script written by the Coen Brothers, directed by George Clooney, and a stellar cast that includes Matt Damon, Julianne Moore (playing twins no less!) and Oscar Issac. So, why did I not love this movie? Well……the first half of Suburbicon is extremely boring. It starts out in a perfect, stereotypical middle class, white 60’s neighborhood where everything looks perfect. Matt Damon’s character is married to a disabled woman who has a twin sister. He seems the typical, button down good father and husband. During a home invasion, his wife ‘accidentally’ dies. Is it an accident? In a plot twist reminiscent of the far, far better Fargo, we find out that Matt Damon’s character may not be the perfect Mr. Cleaver father after all. Mayhem ensues. Interspersed within this plot is an almost completely different movie that involves the first Black family to move into all white suburbia. By the time you get to the end of the movie, you feel like you have been hit on the head with a not very subtle point. As always, the Coen Brothers include some dark humor and a few surprises, but it is just not enough. Instead of going to see Suburbicon, I would recommend looking for Fargo on Netflix and watching William H. Macy “fleeing the interview.”
Money Monster
Money Monster has a very interesting premise that has to do with the stock market. Many people, including yours truly, do not understand where the money goes when you buy a stock. I still don’t have a clue, but this movie entertained me while trying to explain it. George Clooney plays Lee Gates, a sleazy host of a program where stock market investment advice is given. Jack O’Connell is excellent as the young man who loses his life savings on a stock tip that Lee provides. Julia Roberts plays the program director. All three actors are absolutely believable in their partss. This move is exciting and very well-paced. Even though you know exactly what ia going to happen, there is enough suspense to keep you clutching your partner’s arm. I do not usually buy into conspiracy theories, but I am convinced that this kind of money hank-panky probably happens quite often. Think of Money Monster as a good break from the high action super hero movies that seem to abound this time of year. Oh, and Highlander fans will be delighted with Caitriona Balfe’s supporting role as a coorporate stooge with a conscience.