Netflix and Beyond

Beware of films “On Demand” before they open in theatres; more than likely they are awful and “Maps to the Stars” is a prime example. David Cronenberg exploits every salacious taboo shunned by those with a modicum of morality; blatantly bludgeoning viewers with themes of incest, pyromania, narcissism; repulsive, sickening to view; fine actors wallowing in the roles of slimy, ... Read More »

A distant, vastly disappointing “second”; unfathomable, dreary interpretation of characters so alive and vibrant in the first “chapter”; gone is the exciting, enticing flavor of India; this bland, silly scenario could have taken place anywhere. The same cast, marginalized by mundane writing and superfluous directing (John Madden, “Shakespeare in Love”). Dev Patel, “Sonny” the endearing proprietor of the “Marigold Hotel” ... Read More »

Most writers will testify that the “short story” is probably the most difficult to create; within two sentences you have to ambush the readers’ attention;  sink your literary teeth into their intellectual guts; sabotage all extraneous thoughts;  rush to fruition, instantly gratifying their desire to know the conclusion/solution of the tiny tale. “Wild Tales” is comprised of six vignettes focusing ... Read More »

Interestingly “Focus” intrigued me on a surprising level; not as a “con”, “sting” film, nor as a placid love story, but as a devilish, “slight-of-hand”  scenario;  anyone who has been a victim  (or a potential victim) of invasive thievery will be stunned at the skill and finesse practiced by these artists of trickery, surgeons of stylish, cunning undetected removal of ... Read More »

Brian D. answered all the questions, including the bonus “2”, correctly; garnishing $150.00; Danny G. missed “1” bonus, winning $125.00. Congratulations boys! My life is informed by movies and those stars who infuse legitimacy into perfect strangers; they come alive and breathe   comfortably forever, in my memory bank. Here are a few “characters” and those who ignited inspiration and dignity ... Read More »

Hundreds entered, two emerged victorious: one garnished the two extra credit questions. Their names will be posted if permission is granted. I felt the wrong “B” movie took the top Oscars (4 in total; tying with Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel”); “Whiplash” receiving 3; J.K. Simmons, deservedly earning the “Best Supporting Actor”. With the exception of Patricia Arquette (Best ... Read More »

Years ago, a friend was astounded when I admitted to not having read nor having a smidgen of interest in  E.L. James’s  literary phenomena; a trilogy that knocked the world on its posterior. So, over a week’s time, I gorged on all three volumes, concluding that James had a staggering imagination and had done her research in the tricks of ... Read More »

To enter: 1)   You must be a subscriber to Peneflix. By entering the contest, you agree to share your information with Peneflix.com and will be subscribed to the Peneflix email newsletter. 2)   You may only enter once. 3)   You have to beat me; which is the easiest challenge of all. 4)   $100.00 gift card will be mailed to you to enjoy movies. ... Read More »

To enter: 1)   You must be a subscriber to Peneflix. By entering the contest, you agree to share your information with Peneflix.com and will be subscribed to the Peneflix email newsletter. 2)   You may only enter once. 3)   You have to beat me; which is the easiest challenge of all. 4)   $100.00 gift card will be mailed to you to enjoy movies. ... Read More »

To enter: 1)   You must be a subscriber to Peneflix. By entering the contest, you agree to share your information with Peneflix.com and will be subscribed to the Peneflix email newsletter. 2)   You may only enter once. 3)   You have to beat me; which is the easiest challenge of all. 4)   $100.00 gift card will be mailed to you to enjoy movies. ... Read More »