The latest Star Wars film set to break records

Director JJ. Abrams has done an excellent job in revitalising – both technically and emotionally – this beloved but at times mangled franchise. It is a fine homage to the original, by George Lucas, that was so mind-blowingly innovative back in 1977. Abrams has brought back all the old characters – with obvious admiration for their original personalities. Harrison Ford is especially fun as Han Solo. He has brought in fresh new talent that truly shines, especially Daisy Ridley as the spunky Rey, John Boyega as the big-hearted Finn and Oscar Issac as cool-pilot Poe. And those adorable robots/droids are back too – including C-3PO, R2 D2, Chewbacca and a new cutie called BB-8. Just with squeaks and grunts they amuse us no end with their brightness and loyalty. Uber human-like…

He has kept the plot straightforward and above all, he has brought back the spiritual feeling of the “Force”. Despite all the warfare and pyrotechnics, the film feels like a positive, healing tale. In other words, it is wonderfully satisfying.

So go get your ticket, and may the Force be with you….

DEMAIN *** (vo French, English, German)

Check out this important documentary on the possibilities of fixing our damaged world. The lovely actress (“Inglorious Basterds”, “Le Concert”) and director Mélanie Laurent, along with Cyril Dion have circled the globe through some ten countries to talk to those who have decided to take matters into their own hands, before it becomes too late. These concerned citizens have come up with plans to change our perception of ecological, economic and social paralysis. Go with pen and paper, for they have a great deal to teach us.

And two films on which you should not waste your time or money, despite some positive reviews:

LOUDER THAN BOMBS (BACK HOME) *1/2 – Isabelle Huppert playing her standard Huppert in a dry, empty family tale.

UNE CLOCHE POUR URSLI * (vo French) – A gooey-sweet, generic tale of gentle mountain folk. Oh, dear.