For those with a Netflix subscription, there are a steady stream of new films making their debut on that platform. As usual, they are a mixed bunch…
Lost Girls
‘Lost Girls’ is a terrific crime drama based on a true story from director Liz Garbus. When a young woman disappears, the police seem to drag their heels with the investigation. Her Mum, suspecting that is because she is a prostitute, is determined to find the truth. Set is what seems like permanent winter, this is an admirably low key serial killer story. Unfolding at a slow pace, it remains compelling throughout. Amy Ryan is great as the relentless mother and, once again, Thonasin Mackenzie is superb as one of her other kids.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
The Occupant
In ‘The Occupant’,Javier (Javier Guitierrez) is a middle aged advertising executive with a loving family and a lavish apartment. When he fails to secure a new job, they have to move to a less luxurious flat. Javier becomes obsessed with getting his old place back and befriends the new owner…This has an interesting enough premise and some good moments, but it becomes increasingly far fetched. Guitierrez makes a good anti hero though.
Rating: 6 out of 10
Spenser Confidential
Sees Mark Wahlberg teams up once again with director Peter Berg. This time in another screen adaptation of Robert B. Parker’s Boston PI novels. The plot involving a criminal conspiracy is hardly original and the identity of the bad guy is very obvious. However, Wahlberg brings an easy charm to the role, and the movie rattles along at a great pace. Funny in places and with some good action set pieces.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Coffee & Kareem
One to avoid is Coffee & Kareem. A cop, Coffee, and the 12 year old son of his girlfriend, Kareem, have to team up to thwart some dangerous drug dealers. This could have been serviceable enough stuff, with an 80s feel. Ed Helms is OK as Coffee and the supporting cast features the talents of both Taraji P Henson and Betty Gilpin. However, the character of Kareem played charmlessly by Terrence Little Gardenhigh makes the film hard to watch.
Rating: 4.5 out of 10