OUR NUMBER ONE PICK: CASINO

Synopsis: "In early-1970s Las Vegas, low-level mobster Sam "Ace" Rothstein (Robert De Niro) gets tapped by his bosses to head the Tangiers Casino. At first, he's a great success in the job, but over the years, problems with his loose-cannon enforcer Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci), his ex-hustler wife Ginger (Sharon Stone), her con-artist ex Lester Diamond (James Woods) and a handful of corrupt politicians put Sam in ever-increasing danger. Martin Scorsese directs this adaptation of Nicholas Pileggi's book."

Our Take: For reasons that allude us, Casino is one of Martin Scorsese’s lesser appreciated films. The ensemble cast alone, DeNiro, Stone, and Pesci bring an energy that transcends cinema, and Scorsese’s direction is bold enough to match.

Leaves

August 31

COMEDY CLASSIC: LIAR, LIAR

Synopsis: "Conniving attorney Fletcher Reede (Jim Carrey) is an ace in the courtroom, but his dishonesty and devotion to work ruin his relationships. His wife, Audrey (Maura Tierney), has left him for a more dependable man, and Fletcher often breaks the commitments he makes to his beloved son, Max (Justin Cooper). When Max wishes his dad would stop lying for 24 hours, Fletcher suddenly finds that he can only speak the truth -- on the day his career-deciding court case has to be won."

Our Take: This is our favorite side of Jim Carrey. He reigns in his performance, acting out a character that is more human and less out of control. This means when the comedy kicks into gear the contrast is all the more hysterical. You might find the story itself lacking (we will not argue) but we think this is a classic Jim Carrey comedy worthy of a watch.

Leaves

August 31

START YOUR TOM CRUISE MARATHON WITH: TOP GUN

Synopsis: The Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School is where the best of the best train to refine their elite flying skills. When hotshot fighter pilot Maverick (Tom Cruise) is sent to the school, his reckless attitude and cocky demeanor put him at odds with the other pilots, especially the cool and collected Iceman (Val Kilmer). But Maverick isn't only competing to be the top fighter pilot, he's also fighting for the attention of his beautiful flight instructor, Charlotte Blackwood (Kelly McGillis).

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Our Take: Okay, this may not be the best film we have ever seen, but it is sure a lot of fun. Make sure to fit it in before its sequel Top Gun: Maverick hits theaters in December. Better yet? Follow it up with Risky Business and Rain Main. Two more (arguably better) Tom Cruise films leaving Hulu on the same day.

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Leaves

August 31