The revolutionary enters the private chambers of the commanding officer. He is Captain Steven J. Lockjaw (Sean Penn)—a magnificent name for a man who walks like the Terminator with a case of hemorrhoids. She is Perfidia Beverley Hills (Teyana Taylor), … Continue reading ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER
The two most interesting moments in The Phoenician Scheme—the latest from director Wes Anderson—come at the beginning and end of the movie. As for what happens in between, we’ll get there. By the beginning, I don’t mean the actual opening … Continue reading THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME
Wes Anderson’s cinematic style did not appear fully formed. It took a few movies over five years before Anderson locked in on formal compositions, planimetric framing, cuts along the 90-degree axis, diorama-esque interiors, Richard Scarry-like landscapes, idiosyncratic dialogue, peculiar characters, … Continue reading THE FRENCH DISPATCH
The Academy Awards nominations for achievement in motion pictures arts and sciences have been announced, and the usual hand wringing and naysaying has commenced. The Academy does excellent work throughout the year, but their winter show always attracts the most … Continue reading INHERENT VICE
Michael J. Cinema 