Dakota Johnson

It is uncommon for directorial debuts, such as Maggie Gyllenhaal’s strikingly distinctive "The Lost Daughter," to be as sure handed as this film is.

For what initially looks like a slightly above average tearjerker of a slog through a castoff Lifetime movie of the week, the new dramedy, The High Note, from Focus Features proves to be a surprisingly delightful tale that showcases the talents of its two leads, Dakota Johnson and Tracee Ellis Ross, and makes for a refreshing change of pace from the action and/or adventure films that have traditio...[Read More]

Adult melodramas are usually hit or miss for a lot of audience members. When played right, they can become absorbing and endlessly engaging. A perfect example would be Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation (2003). That film was able to provide viewers with a compelling melodramatic premise that was elevated by terrific performances from the main leads, steady direction, and sharp writing. The tricky...[Read More]