LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Film Clips


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The weather outside is getting chilly and there is the scent of holidays in the air. It is also a great time to go to the movies in Lamorinda. This is the busiest time of the year for the theatres. There are so many choices heading to the Rheem and Orinda theatres - from Oscar contenders to family films. The following films are a few of my picks for the last half of December.

On Dec. 14, the most anticipated film of the year will be having its premiere screening at the Orinda Theatre at 7 p.m. Yes, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." Having taken her first steps into the Jedi world, Rey (Daisy Ridley) joins Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) on an adventure with Leia (Carrie Fisher), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe (Oscar Isaac) that will unlock the mysteries as well as the secrets of the past.

You can expect long lines for the opening weekend of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." The film is rated PG-13 with a total running time of 2 hours and 20 minutes. Yes, it is the longest running Star Wars movie in its franchise history.

"Ferdinand," the new animated film based on the beloved 1936 children's book, hits theaters nationwide on Friday, Dec. 15. After Ferdinand (John Cena), a bull with a big heart, is mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure.

Adapting a film from a book is never an easy task. The screenplay is very well-written, and the humor is timely. I think it is the funniest children's animated film of the year. Please do not let "Ferdinand" get overshadowed by "Star Wars;" take the time to see both films. "Ferdinand" is rated PG with a total running time of 1 hour and 46 minutes.

Looking for Oscar buzz in your movie watching experience? I recommend "Darkest Hour," which will be at the Orinda Theatre beginning Dec. 22. During the early days of World War II, the fate of Western Europe hung on the newly-appointed British Prime Minister Winston Churchill (Gary Oldman), who must decide whether to negotiate with Hitler or fight against incredible odds.

Oldman ("Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy") is overdue for an Oscar and I am making an early prediction that he wins Best Actor for his role of Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour." His performance is amazing, and he is truly transformed into Churchill. Do not miss acting at its best.

"Darkest Hour" is rated PG-13 with a total running time of 2 hours and 5 minutes.

See you at the concession stand!