The Killing - 9/10:
Stanley Kubrick's 1956 film noir. I watched this for the first time a few nights ago; I wanted something short before bed, and at 85 minutes this was perfect. I wish more films were like this, straight and to the point. The movie is about a heist at a race track, the planning, the execution, and aftermath. It was quick, but it didn't feel rushed, nor were there any lulls in the story, well paced.
Sterling Hayden was very good in the lead role, and the supporting cast was solid. Apparently Rodney Dangerfield is an extra during the
but I haven't gone back to check. And this movie got Kubrick hired to direct Paths of Glory, coincidentally another short film, which I'll probably watch soon.
Going in Style - 7.5/10:
Cute little comedy starring George Burns. Without much left to live for, he and two of his also elderly friends decide to rob a bank. If they get away with it, they have some money to throw around. If they get caught, a little slap on the wrist since they are old men, and some easy, free living in prison.
It's cliche, but you'll laugh and you'll cry(not quite, but it does have it's sad moments). It's no masterpiece, but for what it is, it works pretty well.
Presumed Innocent - 7/10:
Harrison Ford plays a Prosecutor accused of killing a colleague in this 1990 film. That pretty much sums it up, and that probably gives you enough to know how this thing plays out.
It's got some decent characters and it hooks you in to the story, but it's way too long and doesn't hold you throughout the movie, losing you and bringing you back a few times depending on the pace and plot of the movie. It had a lot more potential than it capitalized on. Very middle of the road "Average Good" movie.