This movie is an excellent sophomore entry in the series, not eclipsing the original but holding its own as both a sequel and standalone murder mystery. The protagonist pair is a delight to watch, as before, and the solution to the mystery is excellent.
Closest comparison: It’s like The Thin Man, leaning a bit toward Murder on the Orient Express.
Setting: Period RomCom
Plot: Mystery
Tone: Mysery
This movie is a run-of-the-mill romantic comedy, neither asking nor offering surprise. The main trio of actors is outstanding and worth the price of admission alone, and makes long strides to compensate for the lack of anything else in this film.
Closest comparison: It’s like The Parent Trap by way of Desk Set.
Setting: RomCom
Plot: RomCom
Tone: RomCom
This movie is a thoughtful, melancholy look at the Western genre. Casting John Wayne in the lead lends a lot of depth to the role, since the film is an introspection on the kinds of films he’s known for starring in. It’s not heavy on action, though there’s enough, and the narrative is more interested in what it is to be a gunfighter and what that does to someone over a lifetime of violence. It’s a well-conceived story and excellently acted, definitely worth a watch for anyone who’s a fan of the classic John Wayne westerns.
Closest comparison: It’s like Wild Strawberries by way of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.
Setting: Western
Plot: Reminiscence
Tone: Drama
This is an overlooked gem that I only heard about by happenstance. It's older and campy, but it's always a treat to watch Jimmy Stewart's performances. It's a little-told part of American history, which is always fun, but the style is certainly dated. The diplomatic language was exquisite and cut so brilliantly to the heart of each conflict in question that it almost bumped it up to a 4/5 for me by itself. All told, though, at the very least it could use a non-gritty remake with an emphasis on dialogue.
