Do The Right Thing (1989)

I was left with a lot of mixed emotions after watching this movie. Not because of it’s actual quality, but because none of the characters really do the right thing. Even as the credits roll, you’re still not sure who, if anyone, to side with. I think that was probably the film’s intent. A refreshing, intelligent commentary on race relations in America.

Spill Rating: Full Price

Buck (2011)

Learning about what Buck Brannaman endured in his childhood and how it influenced his methods are very inspiring. The man’s philosophy on horse training could be applied to almost anything in life, really.

Spill Rating: Full Price

Videodrome (1982)

Great Cronenburg-brand special effects and story. The commentary on technology and the media is just as (if not more) relevant today.

Spill Rating: Full Price

We Are What We Are (2010)

I appreciate what this was trying to do, being a drama that just happens to be about a family of cannibals. I admit I did go into this expecting a gorefest, but could’ve enjoyed it for what it was if the story and characters were more engaging. It did pick up in the second half, and there are some interesting character moments, but there’s still not enough meat on the bone for me to really recommend this.

Spill Rating: (Low) Rental

Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)

I didn’t have time to see this in the theater, which is unfortunate, because the animation is even more gorgeous than the original, and the energetic action scenes would’ve been great in 3D. But KFP2 isn’t all flash: the point where Po’s backstory is revealed is surprisingly heavy. The only thing that didn’t quite work for me was the villain, Lord Shen. He was a pretty interesting character, but he was a lot less threatening than Tai Lung. Probably because he got his minions to do most of the work for him.

Spill Rating: Full Price