REVIEW: "Orphan"

I went into Orphan expecting a psychological thriller and was pleasantly surprised that we got so much more. It has an adult-themed plot with superb acting all around. The casting director deserves an award of some kind for sure, especially for the youngest member (Aryana Engineer). The effectiveness of the tense scenes is due in part to the great casting. Everyone handles the horrific elements with veteran experience. And there are definitely moments that drive home the R rating and push it into the horror category.

The movie is solid for sure, but I do have 2 complaints. 1.) The twist isn't that hard to figure out, especially for me, as I usually guess movies' twists/endings very early on. It's a gift and a curse. No biggie. However, I feel my other complaint holds back what could have otherwise been an unforgettable movie.

2.) The ending was a total cop-out. They set the stage for something truly unforgettable that would have made movie goers walk out of the theaters dragging their jaws on the ground behind them. They missed out on a chance to shock the hell out of us with good writing. Yet they chose not to. Instead, the movie is "good" and not "unforgettable".

REVIEW: Either You're In.....

"Either You're In or You're In the Way" will be read and re-read, as I will return to it time and time again for inspiration. If you are a filmmaker, you must read this book. But you don't have to have aspirations as a filmmaker to learn from the determination of the Bros. (authors and brothers, Logan and Noah Miller). Anyone who has a dream, a goal, a feat that must be achieved, can find enjoyment and encouragement.

I loved this book so much I bought it twice. Crazy? Sure. But that is just how awe inspiring it is. I first bought it in Kindle version for my iPhone and I loved it so much that I thought it deserved a permanent place on my screenwriting/filmmaking bookshelf with the best of the best.

It's one of the most inspirational books I've ever read. It's funny, it's immersive, and it's a superb read. You will laugh, cry, and smile while sharing the journey with the Bros. I would tell you the part that had my eyes full of tears, but that would be spoiling a classic storytelling moment.

Before the book, I had never heard of "Touching Home" (the movie that inspired the book). Now I can't wait to see it. If the movie is half as good as the book, we are in for a treat.

For more information on "Either You're In or You're In the Way," please visit: www.inorintheway.com.