The Express: Entertaining, thought-provoking drama

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Friday, 24 October 2008 10:13

Each week, the Reel Dad looks for a film for parents to share with children. Some of the reviewed films are new; some are classics; all are selected for their “nutritional value” as part of a family’s movie experience. This week, the Reel Dad takes a look at a new film, The Express.

Flash of Genius: A moving portrait with Greg Kinnear

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Thursday, 16 October 2008 13:28

Each week, the Reel Dad looks for a film for parents to share with children. Some of the reviewed films are new; some are classics; all are selected for their “nutritional value” as part of a family’s movie experience. This week, the Reel Dad takes a look at a new film, Flash of Genius.

Remembering Paul Newman: The brilliant actor

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Thursday, 09 October 2008 13:22

He was, perhaps, the biggest movie star of his time, articulating the rage and hopes of a generation with a compelling sincerity and a wicked sense of humor. Along the way he created a collection of film portrayals as rich as any actor in memory. And, never satisfied that his chosen craft was enough, he ventured with great success into directing as well as the philanthropic work that has made a difference to millions.

At his core, Paul Newman was a brilliant actor, equally at home on stage and screen, and his work will always live. Here are a few of my favorite Newman moments:

Rachel Getting Married: Breaking new ground

Written by Jonathan Schumann
Thursday, 02 October 2008 15:02

For several years, Jonathan Schumann contributed film reviews as part of the “Take Two” father-and-sons movie reviewer team. This week, his father Mark, the “Reel Dad,” steps aside to bring Jonathan back to the column for a guest appearance.

When legendary American director Robert Altman died, I was afraid we would lose his trademark narrative style as well. You know what I’m talking about — tons of characters wandering through a free-flowing narrative that defies conventional standards but still manages to be simultaneously tragic, hilarious, and heart-breaking. If you’re unfamiliar, Nashville and Short Cuts are a good place to start.

What happens when Hollywood thinks politics

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Friday, 26 September 2008 09:37

With the first presidential debate scheduled for Friday evening, politics are in the news. As parents, we want to discuss many topics with our children. Watching a movie together can provide an opportunity for quality exchange. This election season, movies can help you begin to discuss some important issues with your children. Here are a few favorites our father film critic recommends to watch and discuss with your kids. Enjoy your time together!

Pineapple Express: Sharp writing, outlandish escapade

Written by Jonathan Schumann
Thursday, 18 September 2008 14:14

For several years, Jonathan Schumann contributed film reviews as part of the “Take Two” father-and-sons movie reviewer team. This week, his father Mark, the “Reel Dad,” steps aside to bring Jonathan back to the column for a guest appearance.

Pineapple Express is a raucously violent, genre-smashing action comedy that had me laughing from start to finish. If that last bit sounds like a cheesy, audience-pandering film critic blurb, so be it. The praise is entirely warranted: in this era of gross-out, drag-out, and flat-out tasteless humor, this one’s a gem.

Saluting the films of football, as season starts

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Friday, 12 September 2008 08:44

With the start of football season, the many movies that feature the sport immediately come to mind. While, overall, football may be a less frequent sport on the big screen than baseball, it is the focal point for many a classic film. Check out some of these favorites for your family viewing as you wait for the next live action or televised game.

Fun and fine mystery-thriller: Tell No One

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Thursday, 04 September 2008 15:37

Every film - like every meal - offers some degree of “nutritional value” to the people who partake. Like some meals, some movies dare to deliver more than a conventional helping. Each week, the “Reel Dad” offers the “nutritional value” of a film that parents may consider sharing with their kids. This week, he takes a look at the new French film, Tell No One.

Vicky Christina Barcelona: A murky Woody Allen drama

Written by Jonathan Schumann
Thursday, 28 August 2008 10:35

Even a seasoned Woody Allen fan might mistake the auteur’s latest film, Vicky Christina Barcelona, for the work of another filmmaker. That is, until the characters open their mouths.

Allen’s latest sparkles with sumptuous, sure-footed visuals as few of his previous films have. While nothing can be compared to Manhattan’s arresting black and white cinematography, this is his most compelling work in color. He captures Barcelona in all its sun-soaked glory. But when his characters begin talking, and falling in and out of love, it’s unmistakably an Allen film.

Ringing in the new school year with some favorites

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Thursday, 21 August 2008 09:36

With the school bells soon to ring on opening day, it’s a good time to put together a family film festival to celebrate the start of the new academic year. This week, the Reel Dad recommends some nutritious cinema offerings to help you begin the school year with some meaningful discussions with your high school students.