By John Saeger
The ongoing series from The Philadelphia Globe peaks ahead at topical classics and the next week of television and new movies.
Mank (Netflix)
The quintessential cinephile’s cinema, Mank is director David Fincher’s homage to Citizen Kane. The monochrome piece immerses the audience in period filming and sound design as it portrays screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz’s quest to craft the masterpiece’s screenplay. Gary Oldman portrays the alcoholic Mankiewicz with his trademark brilliance. Matching Goldman’s work is Amanda Seyfriend. The actor shines as Marion Davies, one of several aspects of the film that should help it land multiple Oscar nominations.
The Way Back (HBOMAX)
This March film flew under the radar because its release coincided with the COVID-19 outbreak. Ben Affleck stars as an alcoholic who is roped into coaching his former high school’s hoops team. The film bears some resemblance to Hoosiers, but truly finds a way to separate itself from the basketball classic and become a bona fide film in its own right. Written by Villanova University alum Brad Ingelsby (and son of basketball player Tom Ingelsby), The Way Back is a solid sports movie worth checking out.
Army – Navy Game (CBS, 12/12, 3:00 PM)
The annual service academy contest was moved from Philadelphia to West Point due to COVID-19. The 2020 matchup at Michie Stadium is the first on-campus game since World War II. Even though this year’s meeting will also be devoid of its usual hallowed traditions, the Hudson River backdrop should make the CBS telecast a special one.
I’m Your Woman (Amazon Prime)
Rachel Brosnahan is one of Amazon’s brightest stars. Despite her best efforts, Brosnahan’s latest piece does not click as well as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. She plays a woman whose husband puts her in danger with his own nefarious activities. Brosnahan’s character is shuffled between safe houses in a film that makes a solid effort, but does not quite measure up to its potential. The film is somewhat reminiscent of 2018’s Widows, albeit without the same excellence as Steve McQueen’s movie.
Oldie, But Goodie
Elf
It is not a deep cut recommendation, but it also is not the holiday season until you watch this modern Christmas classic. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, an “elf” who moves from the North Pole to New York City in search of his estranged father. James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Andy Richter, and Bob Newhart star in this comedy that is a constant presence on TV in December.
About the Author: John Saeger is a music and film writer from Philadelphia. He is also the co-host of the Philly sports podcast The Boo Birds. Prior to The Globe, he wrote the pop-culture blog Long After Dark, a site dedicated to the arts in the City of Brotherly Love and beyond. Email/ Twitter
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