ELIZABETH TAYLOR: THE LOST TAPES – I have been a fan of Elizabeth Taylor my entire life. Her work inspired my work as an actor. This documentary is superb (and I’ve watched a lot of them). Elizabeth tells us her story in her own words tape recorded by Life magazine writer Richard Meryman. She is her usual candid self (one of the traits I love most about her). We hear first-hand about her many marriages, the scandals, the famous film roles including on-set drama, and her tremendous love for Michael Todd and Richard Burton. The film incorporates home movies and private photos never seen before as well as commentary from her many close friends in the industry such as Roddy McDowell and Rock Hudson. Her tireless work for an AIDS cure during the epidemic stemmed from the loss of so many close gay friends. Throughout the tapes there is also much alcohol consumption which was just a typical day for Elizabeth. Sadly, loss and booze were as constant in her life as her talent and beauty. I miss her still. Cheers Elizabeth! Well done! Boyfriends – 0; Girlfriends – 1.

QUEEN BEES – Great vehicle for older actresses Ellen Burstyn, Ann-Margret, Jane Curtain, Loretta Devine and James Caan in what would be one of his last film roles. Unfortunately, the story is contrived and boring and just not very good. I’m glad these folks are still working, but they need to find a different script for their talents. Skip it. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

STEVIE VAN ZANDT: DISCIPLE – Great documentary chronicling the life of Bruce Springsteen’s main man and Tony Soprano’s consigliere. We knew about this portion of his life, his talent as a guitarist and actor. What I didn’t know was all the humanitarian work he has done in Africa through the years. Apparently John did, but it was news to me. He oozes charm as his colorful, endearing personality plus his self-deprecating humor reveal themselves as his story unfolds. And I came away with deep respect for his “give a s*#t” attitude toward what people wanted him to do versus making his own choices without regard for money or fame. Made me want to sit down and have a beer with this guy! Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 1.

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT – Thirty-two years after it’s release, the peeps and I have finally gathered to watch this film which has been on our list for years. Produced and directed by Robert Redford, and starring a very young, very gorgeous Brad Pitt, we all enjoyed it. Kelly thought it was heartwarming and Brad was enticing. John thought the family bonds in the piece were quite moving and Brad looked great. Dana said she liked it but mostly for how hot Brad was. Mike and I also found the family dynamic touching and Brad stunning. As you can see, the common denominator and real attraction in this piece was Brad!! But the story’s good too. Cheers!! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 0.

THE ZONE OF INTEREST – I was expecting this German film with English subtitles to have an impactful emotional punch like Schindler’s List, but it didn’t. There were several impactful short scenes, but overall rather drab and boring. John says he thinks it was intentional cinematography in keeping with the premise of the film. He says since the point of the story is to depict Nazi families living ordinary lives, completely devoid of emotion for the Auschwitz atrocities occurring in full view of their exquisite gardens, the whole film had that mood about it. He still didn’t like the movie though. Mike concurs. They may be right, but I feel it should have been more powerful in its message. Also, we didn’t understand the title. Cheers!! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

THE BLACK PHONE – Decent Ethan Hawke horror film from 2021. A sprinkle of everything – ghosts, psychic phenomena and murderous psychotic behavior. Based on the short story by Stephen King’s son, Joe Hill, it’s worth a view. The lead kid is quite good and perfect in the role. John liked it too. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

BODKIN – I enjoy almost everything set in Ireland or Scotland and this show is no exception. Netflix’s 7-episode mystery/comedy series is quite entertaining. The lead actor, Siobhán Cullen, reminds me so much of Catríona Balfe from Outlander. They could be sisters, and I keep seeing Catríona in the role. Sit back, pour a wee dram and relish the ride! Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

THE GENTLEMEN – Delightful!! Murder, mayhem and a clandestine marijuana farm are afoot when an old English estate is inherited by the scrumptious Theo James. Written, directed and produced by Guy Ritchie, and loaded with talented actors including Giancarlo Esposito from Breaking Bad, it’s a smart, sexy romp and we’re along for the ride. Oh, and as Kelly says….it’s fun! Quality entertainment. Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 1.

THE REGIME – I don’t know what I think of this parody. I don’t think I like it very much. In fact, I’m sure I don’t like it very much despite it being chock full of top notch talent including one boyfriend. There are better things worthy of my viewing time. Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 0.