Adnerb the Movie Nerd

Movie reviews from a middle school teacher's perspective

Molly’s Game

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Anyone who likes to watch the World Series of Poker on television, has ever played in a live poker game or is curious to learn how the other half lives, will enjoy this movie.  Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Molly Bloom.  Molly, as played by Jessica Chastain, was a world-class skier on the fast track to the Olympics. Sidelined by a freak accident, Molly uses her drive and smarts to turn a secretary jog into an exclusive high stakes poker game.  When one of her players ruins her game in California, she simply moves to New York and re-establishes her very exclusive set up! But…before long, she finds herself under arrest by the FBI on federal charges. Why? It’s complex, you will need to see the movie to understand! The movie doesn’t use any of her customers’ real names, but according to a little  internet research, they included Toby McGuire, Ben Affleck and Leonardo DiCaprio as well as professional poker player Phil Ivy.   Idris Elba plays the lawyer who helps Molly when she is arrested by the F.B.I. (apparently, some of her clients turned out to be members of the Russian mafia).    Kevin Costner, Michael Cera and Graham Greene round out the cast.  I have heard there is some Oscar buzz for Ms. Chastain in this movie,  I am afraid I would not go that far, although she does give a good performance.  However, the movie gives us a fascinating glimpse into the world of high stakes gambling and the kind of people who are involved.

Thor Ragnarok

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Some super hero movies get so bogged down in cinematic effects that they lose that magic spark that makes super heroes so appealing.  Luckily that is not the case for this one.  First of all, there is a lot more wit and humor than is usual even for the Marvel Universe movies. Thor, as played by Chris Hemsworth is not only pleasant on the eyes ,but is quite the comedian and will have you laughing many times at the witty dialogue.  His character has come a long way from that duck-out-of-water of his first movie. Yes, there are still plenty of special effects, but I didn’t mind because I was having too much fun watching.  Cate Blanchett is deliciously evil as Thor’s visually striking sister, Hela, who wants to destroy Asgard.  When she appears at the beginning of the movie, Thor finds himself without his hammer and ends up on a planet ruled by Jeff Goldblum playing a wacky, oh wait a minute, playing Jeff Goldblum.  If you have seen any of the trailers you know that Thor and The Hulk will be forced to fight in a gladiatorial arena. Thor and Hulk eventually escape. They have to, events in Asgard are coming to war and rebellion, and there is plenty of action as Thor and his companions strive to save the real Asgard.  Not sure what that means?  Go see this movie and all will become clear, it’s worth it!  Other standouts are Tom Hiddleston, Karl Urban, Idris Elba, Anthony Hopkins and Benedict Cumberbatch.  Look for a fun trio of cameo appearances by Matt Damon, Sam Neill and Luke Hemsworh.  Stan Lee makes his usual cameo too,and I think it is my favorite.  This is an entertaining and funny movie and I think that just about everyone will find something to enjoy.

The Dark Tower

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I notice that this movie has been getting terrible reviews, but I have to disagree with most of these critics.  I thoroughly enjoyed this movie.  In fact, I would be happy to see it again.  The basic story involves around The Gunslinger, the last of his kind,  played convincingly by Idris Elba, who is tasked with protecting the Dark Tower.  Once the Dark Tower falls, many parallel worlds, including  Earth, will fall to the dark powers of The Man in Black played deliciously by Matthew McConaughey.  The fuel that The Man in Black uses to destroy the tower is creepy and won’t be spoiled here.  The main thing standing in the way of the evil plans is a young boy with super psychic powers.  The interplay between the Gunslinger and the young boy are heartwarming and the threat to Earth seems very real.  Perhaps some of the poor reviews are from people who have read the books and were dissatisfied with the transfer to the big screen.  I have not read the books, so I had no preconceived idea of the movie. In fact, this movie has actually inspired me to want to read the book.  A lot of Stephen King based movies would not be good for kids, but I think older kids would really appreciate and enjoy this one.  The classic battle between good and evil always makes for a good movie.  In my opinion, skip the reviews and give this one a try!