Freeze Frame: “Becoming” (Not rated), “How to Build a Girl” (R), “The Half of It” (PG-13)

“Becoming” is a new Netflix documentary featuring former First Lady Michelle Obama. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at her 2018 34-city book tour promoting her memoir, “Becoming.” The film consists of snippets from her appearances at sold-out arenas, mixed with interview clips, scenes from her meetings with community organizations, book signings and occasional personal asides.

 

While the film doesn’t provide the intimate, in-depth portrait her millions of fans might have hoped for, “Becoming” is still an interesting glimpse at America’s most admired woman.

 

Beanie Feldstein stars in the British comedy, “How to Build a Girl,” now available through video on demand platforms. It’s a fictional tale inspired by the life of its author, renowned journalist, Caitlin Moran. Feldstein plays Johanna, a talented but awkward 16-year-old from a working-class family who rises to fame as an obnoxiously cruel music critic. Feldstein is appealing and the movie has wit, even though the coming-of-age elements are a bit too familiar.

 

“The Half of It” is yet another coming-of-age comedy for teens now available on Netflix. Leah Lewis plays Ellie, a brilliant Chinese American girl who, in true Cyrano de Bergerac fashion, is recruited by a dumb jock to write love letters on his behalf to a beautiful girl. Problem is, Ellie falls for her, too. The film generates enough charm, heart and goodwill to overcome certain aspects of “The Half of It” that don’t quite ring true.

 

Your local art house theaters are offering online viewing options for a number of intriguing movie titles. More information is available at nelson-atkins.org/Tivoli, Screenland.com, fineartsgroup.com and bbtheaters.com.


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