comedic performer | producer | host
PAUL HUTCHESON
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Film Reviews
I worked at 7-24 Videos & More, in Parkdale. I loved recommending, discussing, and debating films with customers. Then I discovered the amazing DVD collection at the Toronto Public Library. In addition to DVDs, you can also stream films using Kanopy and Hoopla. Remember when you’d hold up a DVD case and ask, “How’s this?” In the spirit of an opinionated video store clerk, here are our answers.
Written by Peter Bird and Paul Hutcheson.
Film Reviews: May 1st, 2023
DEEP COVER
This overlooked film is now part of the Criterion Collection, and rightfully so.
Laurence Fishburne and Jeff Goldblum, in a Miami Vice aesthetic, add up to an interesting comment on identity in this 90’s undercover drama.
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NOTHING BUT A MAN
This 1964 film is a searing portrayal of the generational impact of racism.
Abbey Lincoln is terrific in the role of Jessie. Great direction and writing.
MASS
The film offers perspective and insight on gun violence in America. The four actors are mesmerizing as parents forced to deal with a future no one anticipated. Originally a lauded stage play, the script is tight and devastating.
NIGHT RAIDERS
Great premise, but poorly developed characters led us to believe this would have been a better CBC mini-series.
THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING MAN
Give this 1957 film a chance for the special effects alone.
Scott Carey’s reaction to his shrinking stature predicts the anger of today’s white men.
The loss of privilege is made visual.
KENNY SCHARF; WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE
Often overshadowed by Keith Herring and Michelle Basquiat, Scharf is the only member of the trio of artists still living. Perhaps the lack of tragedy has led to his being overlooked. His art has evolved and grown. Charming man.
PARALLELL MOTHERS
Beautiful cast, setting and wardrobe.
Interesting way to address a historical failing, but not fully realized.
Yes, they are parallel, but not profoundly so.
EMILY, THE CRIMINAL
Emily seethes with anger and resentment and we don’t blame her.
The threat of violence always looms in this tense, contemporary crime thriller.
Aubrey Plaza is terrific.
BALONEY
As a queer San Francisco burlesque group prepares for a show, we are given portraits of people who found self-acceptance through the art form. Warm and uplifting in dark times.
THE FORGIVEN
Terrible people doing terrible things.
We stuck around to see if anyone got their comeuppance. They do.
Although, we wonder if it was worth enduring 2 hours with these assholes?