Indy movie reviews

  The Hero I've always enjoyed Sam Elliot films but this ranks as one of my favorites. Lee Hayden (Elliot) is a washed up actor entering his 70s with no scripts, an estranged daughter and health issues. Lee reluctantly accepts an invitation to a western film festival where he will get an award for his performances from 40 years ago. Still hesitant about the award ceremony, he meets a younger woman via their shared drug dealer. The film does go down some familiar paths but redeems itself with how it's shown. For example, Hayden reflects on his past mistakes but the film interweaves memories with his character from his famous western, The Hero. What makes the film for me is Elliots performance, a lot of his acting is done without dialog. You understand exactly what he is thinking.  4 1/2 stars out of 5 Best actor, Sam Elliot of course

  Pinball: The Man Who Saved the Game This is a true story as told by Roger Sharpe who took on the NY establishment to reverse the law against pinball machines in 1976. Yes, you heard that right, there was a law banning pinball machines for over 40 years. The film is part documentary/mockumentary with actors recreating 1976. I liked this film because it is a true story about pinball but there is an underlying love story that will pull you in. The film isn't afraid to make fun of the times and watching real Roger inserting himself into a scene and saying, "It didn't really happen this way" and then seeing the scene redone to how it really happened. 4 out of 5 stars Best actor, Crystal Reed

  You hurt my feelings We finally ventured out to a indy movie theater to watch anything. We should have been more discriminating.  The whole premise is based on Beth (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) overhearing her husband disparage her new book. Her husband, Don ( Tobias Menzies ) explains that he  doesn't  like the book but said he did it to encourage her.  The film is basically one trick pony with subplots that go nowhere. All I can figure is Julia Louis-Dreyfus if friends with writer/director. 1 out of 5 stars Best Actor  Tobias Menzies