Day: December 21, 2023

“Maestro” captures the depth of a complicated human

When “Patton” arrived in 1970, filmgoers were fascinated.
Here was the rare movie biography that captured someone’s real depth. There were parts of Gen. George Patton we could love or hate, envy or pity. He was – like many people, especially those at the top – a complicated human being.
“Patton” was rewarded with seven Academy Awards, including best picture, screenplay (co-written by Francis Coppola) and actor. Now the same thing might happen to “Maestro,” which arrived Wednesday on Netflix, after a brief run in theaters. Read more…

Best-bets for Dec. 23: At last, new comedies arrive

1) “Extended Family” debut, about 8 p.m. (after football), NBC. For one night, the post-strike TV season begins. This show has Jon Cryer navigating a life with his ex-wife (Abigail Spencer, they’re shown here), their two kids and her boyfriend (Donald Faison). There are the situation-comedy traditions, including a flailing dad and a dead fish. Still, this is fairly funny … and it’s good to finally have a new sitcom. Read more…