‘Eighth Grade’ feels difficult, and that’s perfect

“Eighth Grade” – Kids can be kids in elementary school, and teens can be teens in high school, but what about middle school?  Well, unfortunate 11, 12 and 13 years-olds trudge, through that hellish purgatory between preteen innocence and young adulthood, otherwise known as middle school. With social pressures, hormonal changes and anxiety at their peaks, these kids attempt to cope with their current, dire 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. existences that feel similar to a never-ending slog through mud pit, 18 inches deep.  Every step is a struggle, and…

‘Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot’ gets horribly lost

“Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot” – According to Google, a mess is defined as a situation or state of affairs that is confused or full of difficulties. Gus Van Sant’s “Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot” – a biopic about cartoonist John Callahan’s life after a car accident left him mostly paralyzed at age 21 – is a mess. A confusing mess, one that Van Sant overcomplicates and creates narrative difficulties, where none should exist. A successful film adaption of John’s story should be a foregone…

Celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday with ‘Invictus’

Nelson Mandela – the legendary South African president and humanitarian – was born 100 years ago on July 18, 1918, and ArtHouseFilmWire.com strongly, strongly recommends watching Clint Eastwood’s “Invictus” (2009) to help celebrate the man’s birthday. “Invictus” is the story of the 1995 South African national rugby team, and it’s journey and President Mandela’s wish to help unite a divided nation between whites and blacks.  Morgan Freeman steps into the role of Mandela so gracefully (as only he can), with much gravitas and respect, and some of the most moving…