War Machine

Brad’s performance is uncharacteristically the pitts as he claws for his caricature of a character and fails to bring home a win in this mess of a movie. Despite deployment of dozens of additional minor celebrities neither realism nor comedy nor empathy are brought to the people of the audience.

Allied

Despite Zemeckis characteristic overindulgence in visual effects, Mr. Smith Goes to Europe is an old-fashioned, conventional tail of intrigue. Tragically mis-represented by commercial double-agents, the twists are spoiled and the plot consequently sabotaged. Pitt is predictably at home in glorious fashion and Cotillard keeps the emotions real despite all lies.

The Big Short

This economics lesson is kind of boring so here’s a half-dozen Oscar winners to explain it to you.  Interesting editing and solid performances anchor Crazy, Stupid Banks and mask the virtual absence of plot or character developments.  Shorting The Sheep of Wall Street’s awards chances would be a solid bet.

Fury

Ahab Pitt pursues white-power whale in visually astounding and brilliantly brooding war story.  Percy finally ascends to his co-stars’ godly realm, though Labaeiouf steals show with bible-thumping rabidity.  Incredible moral tale, peppered with palpable suspense, devastating imagery but slightly over-cinematic conclusion.  Ayer kept it fresh, and for that deserves tanks.