Mario's Talk

Charlie Bartlett

2008's #1 PNR Rising Star winner Anton Yelchin gives another stellar performance in this comedy about a rich kid trying to fit into public school who finds his way into his peers' good graces by becoming their psychologist and a bit more. Kat Dennings is excellent as his girlfriend, and Robert Downey Jr gives one of his best performances as the school principal. Yelchin's talent for mimicry shines in a number of spots. Hilarious from beginning to end..and my first Five Star film of 2008!

Quiet City

Engaging and quirky indie film about 24 hours in the life of a young lady looking for the friend she's supposed to be staying with and the stranger she asks directions from who ends up becoming her guide to the big city. Shot for just $2000, and using mostly non-actors, this movie surprised the hell out of me. Similar to Once in many ways, it's not going to be for everyone, but I think more people than not will quickly fall in love with this quirky film...