The Last Black Man in San Francisco: I read a review of this movie that described it as a poem about San Francisco, and I can’t think of any better way to describe it. If you’re not careful it might lose you, but there’s a lot to look at, ranging from gorgeous everyday shots of a changing city to tearjerker impactful moments to Mike Epps still being the coolest. ****1/4
American Factory: Fascinating. Completely, totally fascinating. This documentary shows what happens when a Chinese glass manufacturer strikes a deal with an American city to re-purpose a shuttered factory, and by doing so offers a glimpse into a whole lot of STUFF: big business, manufacturing, unions, modern day capitalism, what work means to different cultures. I cannot believe the footage they got of the CEO too – what a character. ****
The Biggest Little Farm: A little self-indulgent as you’ve got a guy narrating his own beautiful amazing incredible experience building and operating a farm with his wife and a hippie biology savant that’s virtually self-reliant on the harmony of nature, but my GOD – it’s a heck of a story. It’s real sad sometimes. Dead animals will appear on your screen. But other amazing stuff will too. The Earth is crazy. ***1/2
The Dead Don’t Die: A fun twist on the zombie and local sheriff gimmicks, with an inspired cast led by Bill Murray and Adam Driver. There’s a lot going on here and it doesn’t all hit, but I had a good time. ****
Shaft: Ultimately unnecessary, but the grandpa showing up is cute, the theme song is iconic, and Regina Hall is a maestro. **1/2
