⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Cakemaker is not merely a film about desserts. It’s an emotional exploration steeped in the art of baking. Thomas (Tim Kalkhof), the protagonist and talented German baker, creates exquisite pastries that are as visually stunning. Each creation captures the essence of love, breath, and the very heart of culinary craftsmanship. From the beginning, it becomes apparent that this story transcends the kitchen. It … Continue reading The Cakemaker (2017)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Some films entertain, and then some tap into something deeper—an emotional truth, a lived experience, a slice of life that feels tender and raw. Edge of Seventeen does that, standing out as a heartfelt and powerful look at the messiness of growing up, figuring out who you are, and daring to be yourself. Directed by David Moreton and written by Todd Stephens, this coming-of-age … Continue reading Edge of Seventeen (1998)
⭐⭐⭐ Riff Raff, a dark comedy written by John Pollono and directed by Dito Montiel, offers an unconventional look at organized crime and family dynamics during a New Year’s Eve holiday. While the film’s deliberate pacing may feel unhurried, this thoughtful artistic choice reflects the natural rhythm of the story and invites viewers to immerse themselves in its layered narrative. At the screening I attended, … Continue reading Riff Raff
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Liza Minnelli isn’t just a performer; she’s a cultural phenomenon, a one-of-kind entertainer whose impact spans decades. A new documentary, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, comes to theaters on March 7 and dives headfirst into Liza’s life and career. Showcasing her brilliant highs, profoundly human lows, and everything in between, the film is a heartfelt and vivid portrait of a legend. The … Continue reading Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Two of Us is a compelling and heartfelt story about love, loss, and the struggle to stay connected when everything conspires against you. This beautifully filmed story follows two women who share a deep love but are compelled to keep their relationship a secret. To maintain appearances, they live in separate apartments across from each other. However, their delicate arrangement is disrupted when one … Continue reading Two of Us (2019)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peter Bogdanovich’s What’s Up, Doc? is a masterclass in laughter, chaos, and nostalgia all rolled into one. Released in 1972, this exuberant screwball comedy bursts onto the screen with an energy that grabs your attention from the first ridiculous mishap and never lets go. Anchored by standout performances from Barbra Streisand and Ryan O’Neal, the film is a brilliant homage to classic Hollywood comedies, … Continue reading What’s Up, Doc?
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Paolo Sorrentino’s Parthenope is a stunning visual achievement, merging compelling storytelling with breathtaking imagery. Right from the opening scene, the film envelops its audience in a rich tapestry of atmospheric cinematography. Sorrentino’s artistic touch brings the city of Naples to life, showcasing a vivid contrast between its timeless charm and an underlying melancholy. At the heart of the narrative is Parthenope, a young woman … Continue reading Parthenope
⭐⭐⭐ Inspired by a Stephen King story, The Monkey twists a supernatural premise into a wild blend of horror and dark comedy. It’s strange, chaotic, and impossible to forget—a unique mix that refuses to take itself too seriously. The story starts with twin brothers as young boys exploring their late father’s belongings when they stumble across an old wind-up monkey hidden in a closet. At first, … Continue reading The Monkey
⭐⭐⭐ Love Hurts, directed by Jonathan Eusebio in his impressive debut, is a pulse-pounding action film that throws subtlety out the window and dives straight into the chaos and fun. Written by Matthew Murray, Josh Stoddard, and Luke Passmore, the movie knows its audience—it’s not about deeply intricate storylines but about delivering high-octane thrills, charismatic characters, and humor that hits its mark. The story centers … Continue reading Love Hurts
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stepping into Companion with no idea what to expect was a decision I didn’t regret for a second. There’s a particular thrill in discovering a film entirely fresh, and Companion embraces that mystery with a narrative that surprises at every turn. Right out of the gate, the story delivers an unexpected twist that hooks you immediately, setting up a wild and emotional ride that … Continue reading Companion (2025)
FRANK'S FILM REVIEW 