Henry Hopper, son of Dennis, and Mia Wasikowska star in Gus Van Sant's tale of two youngsters facing enormous loss. Hopper is good, and if you can get past Mia's huge head it's obvious she's a fine actor.  Shot in Portland.
Official Site: http://www.sonyclassics.com/restless/

American New Wave drama starring Jack Nicholson, Bruce Dern, Ellen Burstyn, Scatman Crothers, photographed by László Kóvács, directed by Bob Rafelson set in Atlantic City. What I love about this and '70s films in general; long takes with one camera which allow the actor to act, and the viewer to relax and become engaged with the characters who drive the story. The need for constant editing, narration and explanation of what's going on is absent. I could deliver a long feminist analysis, but that's another blog: just enjoy Jack, Bruce, Ellen & Atlantic City!

Netflix: http://movies.netflix.com/Movie/The_King_of_Marvin_Gardens/672598?trkid=496624

Another "character study" of a man born into privilege and talent who's adrift. Written by a woman, Carole Eastman (as Adrien Joyce) and director Bob Rafelson.  Probably felt liberating in 1970. Worth viewing thanks to the performance of Karen Black. Plus, it's Jack Nicholson before he got huge. Famous Chicken Salad scene (yes, that's Toni Basil at the table.)  Very Dark and sad, sometimes funny. Beautifully shot. Classical and country music: no rock n' roll.

Netflix: http://movies.netflix.com/Movie/Five_Easy_Pieces/507725?trkid=496624#height2315

A charming musical CinemaScopic remake featuring a dynamic dance scene with Bob Fosse and Tommy Rall. It's cute, but the music is not great: put the original version in your queue!

Netflix: http://movies.netflix.com/Movie/My_Sister_Eileen/70021268?trkid=496624#height2288

Rosalind Russel, one of the greatest comedic actors ever stars in this double feature. In SHE WOULDN'T SAY YES, she portrays a psychiatrist. I could do an entire feminist analysis of the script, but it's fun to watch so just enjoy it. Written by Virginia Van Upp, whom deserves a blog entry of her own: what a career!

Attention Hollywood: watch MY SISTER EILEEN,  and take notes. This film has it all: story, characters, performance. Observe how economically it's photographed and how little editing there is. I'm no expert on the screwball comedy genre, but if this it it, I want more!

Netflix: http://movies.netflix.com/WiMovie/My_Sister_Eileen_She_Wouldn_t_Say_Yes/70120044?trkid=2361637#height1664