The Hollars (a movie blurt)

A movie about a family with dreams that somehow didn’t take off as they wished. John Krasinski directed this movie, as well as starred in it as a son who returns from New York to his Midwestern home due to a family illness. While visiting with his parents and brother, we soon learn about the family strains bubbling beneath the surface, not too different from many families experiencing hurt and feelings of inadequacy. Krasinski’s character himself is also wrestling with disappointment. He doesn’t quite know how he feels about his relationship with his live-in girlfriend, played by Anna Kendrick. She’s pregnant and ready to give birth at any time. In the midst of this angst comes the eventual realization of self-worth, gratitude and stronger family bonds. Overall, the movie is heartwarming and well-acted with a surprise twist in the end. Other stars include Charlie Day, Richard Jenkins, Margo Martindale, and Sharlto Copley.

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (a movie blurt)

An eye-opening film from the perspective of the security team that survived the 9/11/12 Benghazi attack, the story is based on Mitchell Zuckoff’s book, 13 Hours. The book is a true account of events that resulted in the deaths of four Americans in Benghazi, Libya, primarily because they were outgunned and outnumbered. Anyone who is not quite clear about the controversy behind the Benghazi fiasco might want to see this film for a reality check. That’s because five out of the six private military contractors who actually fought to defend the other Americans in a compound recount how the help they received was not enough and came way too late. A must-see to get another perspective, or perhaps the only perspective as some parties are not forthcoming with all the facts. This is a well done film with engaging characters, one of whom is played by John Krasinski.

Aloha (a movie review)

I watched this movie because of Bradley Cooper, Bill Murray, John Krasinski, Alec Baldwin, Emma Stone, and Rachel McAdams. The cast sounded too good to pass up even though the trailer didn’t do much for me. Sometimes watching something light like Aloha can be relaxing; the photography looks nice and the actors look good. You don’t get excited much about anything in this movie though; it’s like watching someone’s vacation video. As the title suggests, the movie is set in Hawaii. Continue reading