12 Years A Slave

12 Years A Slave is the extraordinary unique story of Solomon Northrop , a free born African American, taken captive into slavery and ultimately struggling to win his release.   Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor in a magnificent performance as Northrop, it is sure to be a contender in the Oscar arena.  So great and authentic are the performances here by Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, and the talented newcomer Lupita Nyong'o.  They portray the complexities and nuanced transformations of their characters to great effect.  Equally great is the ability of McQueen's directing, a testament to the power of filmmaking when it stays true to the integrity of the book.   12 Years A Slave is an instant  American classic, that unflinchingly takes an actual eyewitness look at the sins of America.  I can't say enough good things about this film, as it is truly real and superior filmmaking of the highest order that is compelling and captivating from start to finish.

Pacific Rim

Pacific Rim obviously takes place in the Pacific, where the earth is threatened by alien species and is forced to take military action. After the loss of his brother to the species, a young military officer known for disregarding procedures and orders is suddenly one of the last of a few thrust into the position of fighting these beings by using old school technology to close a portal they emerge from. Fortunately, the young officer also learns more about the invading species from smarter folks in his team. This is the basic premise of Pacific Rim folks, but its also the same one for the movie Battleship. Unfortunately, it shares the same disappointing viewing experience. I like Guillermo Del Toro, but what was he thinking with this film?