Popcorn Perspectives with Danny Minton
Week of December 9, 2019
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Rated R for language throughout, some strong graphic violence, drug use, and sexual references
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%
Available on Disc and Streaming
One of the big films to beat this awards season is Quentin Tarantino’s 9th movie which explores 1969 Hollywood, and chiefly gives a new spin to what we know about the Manson murders. The film follows a popular star, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, who spends most of his time with his friend and stunt man, Brad Pitt, as he tries to cling on to whatever success he can muster up. The story is wildly all over the place, but when it comes together at the end, it does so in such a beautiful manner that it leaves you with a fantastic experience. It’s like a crazy recipe with ingredients that shouldn’t mix, providing an unbelievable and unforgettable meal. DiCaprio is at the top of his game here in the lead, but Brad Pitt steals the show in a role that is almost certain to win him an Oscar for best supporting actor. There are many who had problems with the last act due to its complete lack of historical accuracy, but I love the brave and brilliant approach Tarantino takes and found myself having way more fun than I signed up for. After all, I went in thinking this was a movie about the Manson family and left smiling after a barrage of hysterical comedy and thrilling surprises. This is certainly one of QT’s best projects to date and one he will be known for for decades to come. A+
Freaks
Rated NR for violence and some language
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Available on Disc and Streaming
This indie horror sci-fi film follows a young girl who has been locked inside of her house, protected by her father (Emile Hirsch), who has never allowed her to step outside. But as you journey into the story, you discover that the father is not just paranoid, but rather the outside world isn’t what it seems and deadly dangers lurk everywhere. What starts out as just weird tale full of paranoia, turns into a slick and unique little sci-fi pic. Helping the project is the talented cast including Hirsch and Bruce Dern who both elevate the project into being extremely watchable for those fans of the genre. The story is a bit hard to follow, but it is certainly engaging and interesting, even if its peculiarities abound. B-