1964 - Once

This film is like a warm stew - it's something the fills you up and makes you feel wholesome.  I revisited this as research for something I'm working on.  It's tough to make a modern realistic musical, but this is about the perfect way to do it.  The style and tone and music is perfectly in sync.  It's beautifully simple.  If you haven't seen this film it's a damn shame.  I'm not sure how interested I am in the musical version of this, as this was just so spot-on perfect.  It's a must see film for anyone who likes their style of music, or films about music in general.

1963 - 21 Jump Street

I've never seen a single episode of the original 21 Jump Street, but I appreciate the cleverness in the meta set-up.  It's not a remake so much as what's happening with the Jump Street program a few decades later.  Very smart move.
Jonah Hill is one of those actors who can do very little wrong in my book.  He's just entertaining as hell for me to watch - and Channing Tatum is super delightful here - the two are a pretty fantastic pair.  Throw Brie Larson in and I'm a happy camper.  The comedy in this film is sharp and on point - it's a bit winky, and a bit of a satire, but it's never a bad thing - and the action is a lot of fun as well.  Sorry I was late to the boat on this one, and looking forward to the sequel!  It's on Netflix!

1962 - The Lego Movie

In theory the idea of a Lego Movie is terrible.  Seriously.  And when I was asked what it was about, I told someone that the plot was, actually, about how to play with lego.  Which sounds ridiculous.  But it's true - and it's awesome.  It took me a little while to get into it if I'm honest, but part of that was getting my little guy and his popcorn sorted out - so I absolutely need to see it again just to watch it clean and without distractions.  I don't want to say too much about it - the reviews kind of speak for itself, but I will say that the film has one of the smartest third acts in a kid's movie I've ever seen - and what might be my favourite final line of a film - the funniest anyway.
If you've ever played with Lego you should love it.  Unless you're dead inside...

1961 - In a World...

I've wanted to see this film since I saw the trailer sometime last year.  Lake Bell has this energy to her that I find incredibly charming in a non-traditional way.  She's refreshing.  This film looks at the world of voice over acting and the specificity of that world is just part of what makes it such a lovely little film.  Ultimately it's the story of finding your own voice and figuring out a way to stand out in the crowd.  There's a subplot with Bell's character's sister that I don't find works that well thematically, but it's enjoyable nontheless.  I'm really excited to see what happens next with Lake Bell :)  It's not on Netflix yet, but you can check it out VIA iTunes.

1960 - Fat Kid Rules the World

I remember seeing press for this film when it was in the festival circuit.  I've always enjoyed Lillard as an actor so it was exciting to see what he could do as a filmmaker.  I think it's a strong coming-of-age story, and more honest about how it feels to be that kid in that situation.  I've been there, though not nearly as damaged.  Poor kid. 
I found the film to be pretty charming.  I was planning to watch it in the background while doing some work but it drew me in completely.  The cast is full of solid performances and interesting characters that don't simply fall into the stereotypes one might come to expend in a film like this.  It's on netflix and I strongly recommend to anyone who loves tales about lovable losers.