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.

IRISH WISH – Lindsay Lohan stars in this romantic comedy set in Ireland, of course. RomCom’s are not my thing. I only watched because of the Irish locale and co-stars Ed Speleers and Alexander Vlahos…all three lovely to look at. As usual, this one was predictable and not very good. A few laughs. I did like the magical bit with the wish chair….”Saint Bridget will grant you what you need, not necessarily what you want!” Sláinte! Boyfriends – 2; Girlfriends – 0.

AMERICAN FICTION – Entertaining film providing insight into Black culture and “woke” syndrome. Jeffrey Wright portrays Monk, a frustrated writer, and Sterling K. Brown portrays his gay brother, Cliff. Both men are wonderful. Wright delivers a poignant performance and Brown exudes rebellious charm as their bond is tested and remains strong in spite of themselves. Based on the book Erasure by Percival Everett, the movie tells the story with honesty, humor and heartbreak. Mike and I both enjoyed the picture, despite the arbitrary ending. We are left to decide for ourselves how the circumstances resolve. Mike loves that. Me….not so much. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.