Bohemian Rhapsody

Rami rises royally to render Rhapsodic Mercy, raising the temperature of otherwise lukewarm Bohemian band-flick. Self-absorbed cinematic stylistic decisions clash with Freddie’s eccentric ease, as the film queerly contorts the timeline to find formulaic narrative while straightening out star’s personal life to satisfy censors he’d have scorned. Then Live Aid.

Short Term 12

The Larsonist strikes again, burning brilliantly bright in this tragically uplifting dive into a world that desperately needed exploration.  Electrifying TV stars barely avoid being outshone by their exceptional juvenile charges.  Chases down and tackles difficult taboo topics without ever feeling exploitative or sugarcoated.  Where’s Soderbergh for Short Term 13?

Ain't Them Bodies Saints

Title relevant only in bad grammar’s parallel to film’s awkward structure. Gone with the Dragon Tattoo’s little siblings manage to give depth to characters that never break out of their un-empathetic bonds. There will be boredom despite excellent photography in Tedious Country for Middle-Aged Men.  Ain’t non-chronological editing working here.