Mini-Review: An entertaining but shallow look at an intriguing man. There is some excellent file footage and artistic renderings of the Fischer-Spassky match as well. Also, Sam Sloan appears in this film. Sloan is legendary in the chess world for his creepiness, exhaustively autobiographical website, and his status as the only person to successfully argue a case before the US Supreme Court without a lawyer. google him on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

Mini-Review: Brilliant first half, melodramatic and occasionally tedious second half. Fellowship is at its best when it is about adventuring, the nature of the ring, and showcasing beautiful locales. It is at its worst during its many silly battle scenes and melodramatic moments. I also question some of the changes Jackson made to the plot, particular his changes to the Saruman character.

Mini-Review: This would be a perfect documentary if it was honest in its presentation of the facts. Unfortunately, Lestrade omits many important facts as he shoehorns reality into his thesis. Biased presentation aside, it is one of the most complete depictions of a murder trial - from the perspective of the accused and defense team - ever. Its 6 hour running length is justified; it is the cinematic equivalent of a page turner. Warning: you may feel manipulated after learning more about the case.

Mini-Review: This is what a boring, depressed, charmless artiste looks like. This is what his boring actress girlfriend looks like. This is their boring bereft-of-passion romance. These are his hipster friends who ironically tag brick walls. Here is his charming gay father. And this is his father's dog whose thoughts appear on screen as subtitles - QUIRKY! All characters lack emotional depth. Bach's suite no. 1 is almost as cliche as Pachabel's Canon in D at this point. And: Why was this rated R?

Mini-Review: A great story adequately told. It would be better suited as a documentary or non-fiction novel.