Peter Murmann

Wes Anderson’s new film (co-written by Roman Coppola) is a wonderful exploration the trials and tribulations of growing up. In his films, Anderson always focuses on people who don’t fit in society well. This time he centers his attention on two kids (a 12-year-old boy and girl) who not only have trouble fitting in, [Read More]

There are many films about Christmas time and families coming together for a few days. This film is special in that it captures very well the rhythms of these family reunions. Most families find it difficult to keep any tensions that might exist under raps. The days move slowly, punctuated by rituals of eating, chatting, [Read More]

The Alps are a natural spectacle. Many directors, of course, have realized this. The Sound of Music, for example, was filmed in and around Salzburg. 50 Kilometers south of Salzburg lies the fortress “Werfen.” Where Eagles Dare exploits the dramatic scenery of the fortress and its vicinity to stage a James Bond like spy story [Read More]

Many of recent Roman Polanksi film were masterpieces. The Pianist was breathtakingly good. The Ghostwriter manages to create a special atmosphere. But the ending was a complete letdown. I understand why Polanksi is not very pleased with American authorities who have been trying to arrest him for over 30 years. (See my recent review). Anyone [Read More]

A few years ago I had nothing good to say about Faith Akin’s 2007 film On the other Side. But Head On, which is only secondarily about the challenges of being born in Germany into a Turkish immigrant family, is a deep film.  Primarily it is about self-destruction and the strangeness of love. Sibel and [Read More]

If you don’t understand many peoples’ love for dogs, this film explains dogs can be humans’ being best friend. Based somewhat on a true story, this comedy takes you on a tour of Western Australia.  Even if you don’t care much about the canine species, Red Dog is a very special dog and [Read More]