The Girl Who Played with Fire (2009) - 9 stars out of 10
"The Girl Who Played with Fire" is an incredible elaboration on the film "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." In this sequel, we begin to understand many of Lisbeth's motivations and realize the misconceptions that we formed about her in the first film. The revelation of Lisbeth's back-story does not ruin the original (as stories in ...sequels so often do) since this entire series was conceptualized at once; in fact, the screenwriters do a genius job of developing our opinions in the first film and then revealing how misguided those opinions were as the second story unfolds. Following the precident set by the first film in the series, "The Girl Who Played with Fire" contains several incredible twists that enhance that constantly alter our perspectives as the seemingly evil Lisbeth becomes a heroine. Noomi Rapace surpasses her acting in the first film as this installment shifts the focus from Nyqvist’s character to her. This is another example of how great acting and great writing are an equation for success. I am typically disappointed by sequels but this film is anything but a letdown.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009) - 10 stars out of 10
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009) - 10 stars out of 10
The film begins shrouded in mystery under the guise of a gorgeous film score, simply alternating from the I chord to the iii chord. Perhaps the best way to begin a film, though it does not take long for the beauty of the score to give way to some of the most sinister themes that I have encountered in any film. This crime drama woven around rape and ritual murder is not for the faint of heart. It only takes a moment to get over the fact that all of the actors sound like the Swedish Chef before becoming absorbed into this intricate plot, full of twists that will shock you but never seeming unbelievable. Deep characters and quality acting help "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" to make Swedish films to be known on the international stage. Make sure that you are in a dark mood for this film that will shock you and have you adding the sequels to your Netflix InstantWatch Queue before the credits finish rolling.
For my review of the 2011 American remake, see:
http://jonnysdailymoviereview.blogspot.com/2012/03/girl-with-dragon-tattoo-2011-7-stars.html
The film begins shrouded in mystery under the guise of a gorgeous film score, simply alternating from the I chord to the iii chord. Perhaps the best way to begin a film, though it does not take long for the beauty of the score to give way to some of the most sinister themes that I have encountered in any film. This crime drama woven around rape and ritual murder is not for the faint of heart. It only takes a moment to get over the fact that all of the actors sound like the Swedish Chef before becoming absorbed into this intricate plot, full of twists that will shock you but never seeming unbelievable. Deep characters and quality acting help "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" to make Swedish films to be known on the international stage. Make sure that you are in a dark mood for this film that will shock you and have you adding the sequels to your Netflix InstantWatch Queue before the credits finish rolling.
For my review of the 2011 American remake, see:
http://jonnysdailymoviereview.blogspot.com/2012/03/girl-with-dragon-tattoo-2011-7-stars.html
Friday, April 8, 2011
Tron Legacy - 7 stars out of 10
Tron Legacy - 7 stars out of 10
"Tron Legacy" is everything that the original "Tron" aspired to be. Creating a digital world unlike anything that you've ever seen, you will be transported inside with Flynn and never look back. From the opening computerized Disney logo, you know that the special effects will be a feast for the eyes. The story is average and the acting isn't anything that will blow your mind, but the Light Cycle Race says it all. The video game that we all know is elevated to a new level (literally and figuratively) in this incredibly designed multi-level arena. Computer-enhanced young Jeff Bridges bothered me at first but once I got used to it, I was able to appreciate his dual-role in this film. It was nice to see Olivia Wilde's bright, wide eyes burst onto the scene in a performance reminiscent of Carrie Ann Moss in "The Matrix." I hope to see a lot more of her in the future. Though the expectation for this film includes amazing special effects, they will still blow you away as you're transported to this digital world.
"Tron Legacy" is everything that the original "Tron" aspired to be. Creating a digital world unlike anything that you've ever seen, you will be transported inside with Flynn and never look back. From the opening computerized Disney logo, you know that the special effects will be a feast for the eyes. The story is average and the acting isn't anything that will blow your mind, but the Light Cycle Race says it all. The video game that we all know is elevated to a new level (literally and figuratively) in this incredibly designed multi-level arena. Computer-enhanced young Jeff Bridges bothered me at first but once I got used to it, I was able to appreciate his dual-role in this film. It was nice to see Olivia Wilde's bright, wide eyes burst onto the scene in a performance reminiscent of Carrie Ann Moss in "The Matrix." I hope to see a lot more of her in the future. Though the expectation for this film includes amazing special effects, they will still blow you away as you're transported to this digital world.
Tears of the Sun - 7 stars out of 10
Tears of the Sun - 7 stars out of 10
"Tears of the Sun" is a graphic portrayal of a group of Navy SEALs who develop a conscience on one of their missions. Bruce Willis manages to display his action hero persona without distracting from the main focus of the film - the brutal ethnic cleansing within the tribes. Monica Bellucci is as beautiful as she is brilliant in her supporting role. The combination of music, horrific imagery, and Monica Bellucci's crying during the scene in the helicopter is absolutely devastating and provides the necessary emotional impact for this film’s turning point. It’s no surprise that this powerful score comes from Hans Zimmer. I'd watch this movie again just to experience the emotions created from these 5 minutes of film. Although the end drags on a bit, you will be glad that you experienced this film.
"Tears of the Sun" is a graphic portrayal of a group of Navy SEALs who develop a conscience on one of their missions. Bruce Willis manages to display his action hero persona without distracting from the main focus of the film - the brutal ethnic cleansing within the tribes. Monica Bellucci is as beautiful as she is brilliant in her supporting role. The combination of music, horrific imagery, and Monica Bellucci's crying during the scene in the helicopter is absolutely devastating and provides the necessary emotional impact for this film’s turning point. It’s no surprise that this powerful score comes from Hans Zimmer. I'd watch this movie again just to experience the emotions created from these 5 minutes of film. Although the end drags on a bit, you will be glad that you experienced this film.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Uncle Buck - 6 stars out of 10
Uncle Buck - 6 stars out of 10
"Uncle Buck" was significantly better than I expected. It wasn't great but it avoided earning the 2 stars that I was expecting to assign. I was ready to be annoyed by John Candy but he was actually quite endearing. The real star of this film is Jean Kelly. Aside from having a great name for the screen, she develops a great character with a good blend of comedy and drama. In my opinion, there was not enough of Culkin and Hoffmann but overall, the film has a few laughs, puts the characters in humorous situations, and I appreciated that it was 99% comedy and then 1 tender family moment at the end (instead of having several eye-rolling Hallmark moments throughout).
"Uncle Buck" was significantly better than I expected. It wasn't great but it avoided earning the 2 stars that I was expecting to assign. I was ready to be annoyed by John Candy but he was actually quite endearing. The real star of this film is Jean Kelly. Aside from having a great name for the screen, she develops a great character with a good blend of comedy and drama. In my opinion, there was not enough of Culkin and Hoffmann but overall, the film has a few laughs, puts the characters in humorous situations, and I appreciated that it was 99% comedy and then 1 tender family moment at the end (instead of having several eye-rolling Hallmark moments throughout).
Year One - 1 star out of 10
Year One - 1 star out of 10
Presenting Michael Cera as... the caveman version of George Michael Bluth in a bad wig. This movie was as bad as I expected and amounted to nothing more than 90 minutes of bad prehistoric jokes. I feel bad for all of the celebrities that associated themselves with this film - they all probably owed Jack Black a favor. I don't understand what the writers were thinking when they wrote this. Unfortunately, I wasn't amused by anything and the only part of this movie that I enjoyed was the opportunity to stare at Juno Temple for her few minutes of screen time.
Presenting Michael Cera as... the caveman version of George Michael Bluth in a bad wig. This movie was as bad as I expected and amounted to nothing more than 90 minutes of bad prehistoric jokes. I feel bad for all of the celebrities that associated themselves with this film - they all probably owed Jack Black a favor. I don't understand what the writers were thinking when they wrote this. Unfortunately, I wasn't amused by anything and the only part of this movie that I enjoyed was the opportunity to stare at Juno Temple for her few minutes of screen time.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The French Lieutenant's Woman - 7 stars out of 10
The French Lieutenant's Woman - 7 stars out of 10
"The French Lieutenant's Woman" moves pretty slow but is entirely worth watching for another virtuosic role by Meryl Streep. This geniusly crafted story-within-a-story is portrayed through actors filming a screenplay of John Fowles' novel (of the same name) as it draws parallels between the actors and the characters that they are portraying in the story. Fortunately, I had less trouble dissociating Jeremy Irons with Scar (from the Lion King) than in many of his movies because he used a gentler voice. His character was static for much of the movie but really came to life during one of the final scenes. Streep was amazing, through and through, and the largest surprise of the film came in an emotional monologue by the beautiful Lynsey Baxter. The handling of the original novel's two endings is a perfect way to pay homage to Fowles' unique way to end his novel and to allow the audience to experience both endings.
"The French Lieutenant's Woman" moves pretty slow but is entirely worth watching for another virtuosic role by Meryl Streep. This geniusly crafted story-within-a-story is portrayed through actors filming a screenplay of John Fowles' novel (of the same name) as it draws parallels between the actors and the characters that they are portraying in the story. Fortunately, I had less trouble dissociating Jeremy Irons with Scar (from the Lion King) than in many of his movies because he used a gentler voice. His character was static for much of the movie but really came to life during one of the final scenes. Streep was amazing, through and through, and the largest surprise of the film came in an emotional monologue by the beautiful Lynsey Baxter. The handling of the original novel's two endings is a perfect way to pay homage to Fowles' unique way to end his novel and to allow the audience to experience both endings.
Rosemary's Baby - 7 stars out of 10
Rosemary's Baby - 7 stars out of 10
Rosemary's Baby is a classic that delivers one of the most unexpected twists in movie history. The final 10 minutes are SO INTENSE, enhanced by perfect situational music and Mia Farrow's unstable disposition. The best parts of the movie are in the final 1/2-hour, but I won't ruin it for you (like someone did for me). On the not-so-great side of things, the first 90 minutes are very slow and I'd be at peace fastforwarding through the majority of it to get to the good parts. Other than that, this story offers great acting by Farrow, a stellar performance by Ruth Gordon (who received an Oscar for her performance), and bizarre characters whose weirdness makes COMPLETE sense in the end.
Rosemary's Baby is a classic that delivers one of the most unexpected twists in movie history. The final 10 minutes are SO INTENSE, enhanced by perfect situational music and Mia Farrow's unstable disposition. The best parts of the movie are in the final 1/2-hour, but I won't ruin it for you (like someone did for me). On the not-so-great side of things, the first 90 minutes are very slow and I'd be at peace fastforwarding through the majority of it to get to the good parts. Other than that, this story offers great acting by Farrow, a stellar performance by Ruth Gordon (who received an Oscar for her performance), and bizarre characters whose weirdness makes COMPLETE sense in the end.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Apocalypse Now - 7 stars out of 10
Apocalypse Now - 7 stars out of 10
"The horror..." I may not have been crazy about Apocalypse Now but I definitely would not use this phrase to describe it. Perhaps I should have started with the original cut instead of the Redux, but Apocalypse Now just moved too slow and failed to grab my attention. I was expecting The Godfather in the form of a war movie but did not find the incredible story that I had hoped for. In fact, I spent most of the movie wishing that I could see Marlon Brando. This movie sports some classic characters, particularly Sheen, Hopper, Brando, and a VERY young "Larry Fishburne." The most enjoyable performance comes from Duvall. I certainly would not call this his best role but he deserved an Oscar nod and his performance is unforgettable. I will definitely watch this movie again someday but will try the original cut in hopes that it can capture my attention.
Addendum to my initial review after a second viewing:
The theatrical cut flows much better than the Redux. It still moves at a slow pace but more effectively paints a picture of Brando's character, buiding tension until he is discovered by taking less detours along the way. Although Brando's monologues are incredible at the end, everything just moves too slow. Jim Morrison's voice is perfect is a perfect choice for the opening and penultimate sequences of this film and the film score creates a delightfully creepy atmosphere. Although Martin Sheen's voiceovers are more poignant than Charlie Sheen's in Platoon, Apocalypse Now proves to be a Vietnam War movie that shows the horrors of war less effectively than the warm movies that follow (particularly Platoon).
"The horror..." I may not have been crazy about Apocalypse Now but I definitely would not use this phrase to describe it. Perhaps I should have started with the original cut instead of the Redux, but Apocalypse Now just moved too slow and failed to grab my attention. I was expecting The Godfather in the form of a war movie but did not find the incredible story that I had hoped for. In fact, I spent most of the movie wishing that I could see Marlon Brando. This movie sports some classic characters, particularly Sheen, Hopper, Brando, and a VERY young "Larry Fishburne." The most enjoyable performance comes from Duvall. I certainly would not call this his best role but he deserved an Oscar nod and his performance is unforgettable. I will definitely watch this movie again someday but will try the original cut in hopes that it can capture my attention.
Addendum to my initial review after a second viewing:
The theatrical cut flows much better than the Redux. It still moves at a slow pace but more effectively paints a picture of Brando's character, buiding tension until he is discovered by taking less detours along the way. Although Brando's monologues are incredible at the end, everything just moves too slow. Jim Morrison's voice is perfect is a perfect choice for the opening and penultimate sequences of this film and the film score creates a delightfully creepy atmosphere. Although Martin Sheen's voiceovers are more poignant than Charlie Sheen's in Platoon, Apocalypse Now proves to be a Vietnam War movie that shows the horrors of war less effectively than the warm movies that follow (particularly Platoon).
Yes Man - 3 stars out of 10
Yes man - 3 stars out of 10
Jim Carrey was better in this ype of role 15 years ago. The film was entertaining and had a good bottom line. It also had a lot of cheesy dialogue and felt that it could use the excuse "He has to say yes" to put him into "funny" situations, even if they are irrelevant to the plot. Did they really think that we wouldn't notice that it is the EXACT SAME PLOT AS LIAR, LIAR, only with a much older Carrey? Instead of "Yes Man, this movie should've been called "Watch Jim Carrey Do Random Things For An Hour, Including Some Majorly Nasty Thing With An Old Woman." Zooey Deschanel was good and I give the producers star just for putting The Ghost and Mr. Chicken into the film, but this just isn't Jim Carrey's role anymore. He has had some amazing dramatic roles like The Majestic, The Number 23, and The Truman Show - this film reminded me that Carrey can still act but the glory days of Liar, Liar and Ace Ventura are past.
Jim Carrey was better in this ype of role 15 years ago. The film was entertaining and had a good bottom line. It also had a lot of cheesy dialogue and felt that it could use the excuse "He has to say yes" to put him into "funny" situations, even if they are irrelevant to the plot. Did they really think that we wouldn't notice that it is the EXACT SAME PLOT AS LIAR, LIAR, only with a much older Carrey? Instead of "Yes Man, this movie should've been called "Watch Jim Carrey Do Random Things For An Hour, Including Some Majorly Nasty Thing With An Old Woman." Zooey Deschanel was good and I give the producers star just for putting The Ghost and Mr. Chicken into the film, but this just isn't Jim Carrey's role anymore. He has had some amazing dramatic roles like The Majestic, The Number 23, and The Truman Show - this film reminded me that Carrey can still act but the glory days of Liar, Liar and Ace Ventura are past.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Felon - 6 stars out of 10
Felon - 6 stars out of 10
Average acting is driven along by a unique perspective ito corrupt prison life in this drama. Val Kilmer is striving to have the epic roles that Mickey Rourke and Jeff Bridges have recently found and, although he doesn't succeed, he does manage to transform himself beyond recognition and to completely step out of his stereotype. I didn't care for Stephen Dorff but Harold Perrineau made up for him. I'd recommend it. Not the best film ever, but it provides some interesting insight into prison life.
Average acting is driven along by a unique perspective ito corrupt prison life in this drama. Val Kilmer is striving to have the epic roles that Mickey Rourke and Jeff Bridges have recently found and, although he doesn't succeed, he does manage to transform himself beyond recognition and to completely step out of his stereotype. I didn't care for Stephen Dorff but Harold Perrineau made up for him. I'd recommend it. Not the best film ever, but it provides some interesting insight into prison life.
The Sorcerer's Apprentice - 9 stars out of 10
The Sorcerer's Apprentice - 9 stars out of 10
THANK YOU Disney, for including the Paul Dukas symphonic poem and incorporating the Fantasia brooms into this movie. That alone made this film worth watching. The Sorceror's Apprentice is a complete movie as the "Fantasy-meets-real-life" film provides laugh-out-loud comedy, action, a great car chase, and a modern interpretation of this 200+ year old story. The comedy never bordered on cheesy and the Star Wars 'force" reference is one of the best timed lines from any movie. I have been very critical of Nicolas Cage over the past few years as the quality of his films has seemed to deteriorate, but I'm glad to say that he finally found a role that works for him. Jay Baruchel IS the character of Dave Stutler and you can't go wrong with Alfred Molina as your bad guy. Trevor Rabin's fantastic musical score is Oscar-worthy, possibly even better than his score for National Treasure, and I love the incorporation of OneRepublic's "Secrets" throughout the movie, from the radio station to the Tesla Coils to the timing of dialogue during the pause at the end. Further praise that I could give to the film would include a great use of iconic New York City architecture and landmarks within the plot. Above anything else, this film is a special effects masterpiece, with the combination of live visual effects with CGI making all of the magic incredibly realistic (a must for this story). It is definitely worth watching the DVD featurette on the making of this film to see how it all came together. The Disney/Bruckheimer/Turteltaub team hit the mark with this outstanding family film that will provide entertainment to "kids" of all ages.
THANK YOU Disney, for including the Paul Dukas symphonic poem and incorporating the Fantasia brooms into this movie. That alone made this film worth watching. The Sorceror's Apprentice is a complete movie as the "Fantasy-meets-real-life" film provides laugh-out-loud comedy, action, a great car chase, and a modern interpretation of this 200+ year old story. The comedy never bordered on cheesy and the Star Wars 'force" reference is one of the best timed lines from any movie. I have been very critical of Nicolas Cage over the past few years as the quality of his films has seemed to deteriorate, but I'm glad to say that he finally found a role that works for him. Jay Baruchel IS the character of Dave Stutler and you can't go wrong with Alfred Molina as your bad guy. Trevor Rabin's fantastic musical score is Oscar-worthy, possibly even better than his score for National Treasure, and I love the incorporation of OneRepublic's "Secrets" throughout the movie, from the radio station to the Tesla Coils to the timing of dialogue during the pause at the end. Further praise that I could give to the film would include a great use of iconic New York City architecture and landmarks within the plot. Above anything else, this film is a special effects masterpiece, with the combination of live visual effects with CGI making all of the magic incredibly realistic (a must for this story). It is definitely worth watching the DVD featurette on the making of this film to see how it all came together. The Disney/Bruckheimer/Turteltaub team hit the mark with this outstanding family film that will provide entertainment to "kids" of all ages.
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