Peaks and valleys of decent moments but too much to be desired in the end.

This went from a 2 star to a 4 star based on the last twenty minutes.

Beasts of No Nation unites an impressive group of filmmakers globally to get it right. Casting, location, it’s amazing.

The film is an authentically harrowing portrayal of manipulation, national corruption, and the terror inflicted by brutal militias.

The early scenes are filled with warmth, family and humanity…making the heartbreak that follows all the more devastating.

Idris Elba delivers a chilling performance as the Commandant. You grow to hate him, yet his presence is magnetic.

This film is not easy to watch, but it’s an essential viewing that will make you flinch more than once.

So long as there isn’t personal trauma connected to us from a loved one, no matter their own demons, we will always view them in the best memories we can. 

Aftersun is the slow burn of a warm and healthy father daughter relationship with one side fully engulfed in depression and personal turmoil. Tender and sad, happy plenty of times, but mostly tough to watch love being given and self love being neglected.