Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides - 8 stars out of 10
Before I give this review, I have to state that I really enjoyed "On Stranger Tides." Depp is magnificent and Cruz was stunning. Unfortunately, this film lacks a good villain. The first film had Barbossa, the second had Davy Jones, the third had Jones, Turner, Barbossa, and Sparrow at different moments... but Blackbeard wasn't sinister enough and, where the other films were enhanced by having the heroes sometimes appear to be villains, this film is just confusing as to whether Barbossa is good or bad. My last criticism before I sing praises to this new installment: they didn't spend enough time on pirate ships. The entire atmosphere of the film changed by putting them on land more than the sea, and that is why it didn't completely feel like Pirates of the Caribbean. This film is much darker and contains less light-hearted moments than the previous ones which was refreshing. The entire mermaid sequence is destined to become one of those famous Hollywood moments - I've never seen anything quite like that. Astrid Berges-Frisbey was captivating and I never expected that much characterization from a mermaid. She played excellently off of Sam Clafin who made a great secondary character. Penelope Cruz was definitely the highlight of this film, feisty, clever, and I can't say enough about that accent! Although I love Geoffrey Rush, I felt that this was the weakest of his Pirates performances, though his peg-leg was awesome. The film still has the beautiful scenery and awesome musical score, but it lacked a great pirate ship battle scene, like the Kraken scene or the final battle sequence from the 3rd film. Also, the driving force between the first three films was Will and Elizabeth's journey to be together. This is more of an adventure film, where it's focused around the "treasure hunt" aspect, not a love story. This is just a new generation of Pirates films, but I was sad to see it fall short of the previous three. I believe that when the next two Pirates movies come out, we'll enjoy this one more. This film is transitional as the old characters disappear and new ones take their place but I believe that it is starting us on the path of more Pirates greatness.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End - 9 stars out of 10
Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End - 9 stars out of 10
"At Worlds End" is an outstanding addition to the Pirates of the Caribbean saga and the perfect ending to this first trilogy. Although I wasn't a huge fan the first time I saw it, the second time was much more fulfilling as I understood the entire plot better as a whole. It's easy to get lost when the plot twists and turns so much but once you're ready for it, this film proves to be an incredible journey. It doesn't get much more intense than the opening sequence at the gallows, setting the groundwork for a breathtaking, "heart-stopping" (get it?) sequence of events. More than anything, I'm glad that Disney did not worry about making this film kid-friendly. Better to do the film right and let the kids wait until they are older to see it than to dull down the action for the sake of selling more tickets (and consequently, this probably increased the number of adult viewers exponentially). Overall, I felt that about 20 minutes of this movie could have been cut out. It is cool to see a dozen Jack Sparrows running around but it didn't gel with the overall atmosphere of the film. More obviously, the whole Calypso thing was stupid and unnecessary. The rum jokes continue, but this film does a better job of standing on its own without relying on the jokes from the first two with the exception of the ending which cleverly plays homage to the first film. The character of Elizabeth Swann continues to develop into a kick-butt piratical joy to watch and is sure to be one of your favorites by the end of this film. A unique feature of the film is the constant confusion between who is the hero, who is the enemy, and who is both. Just when you think that the tables won't be turned on you again, they are turned twice. With rain crashing down, the writers created the most amazing setting for a final battle. Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing, can prepare you for the final 25 minutes of this trilogy. You are guarenteed to have your jaw drop until you realize that, since the first moments of the first film, the writers set this story up for the perfect ending. Finally, don't you dare turn the film off before you see the bonus ending - it brings perfect completion to the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, leaving you speechless and satisfied.
"At Worlds End" is an outstanding addition to the Pirates of the Caribbean saga and the perfect ending to this first trilogy. Although I wasn't a huge fan the first time I saw it, the second time was much more fulfilling as I understood the entire plot better as a whole. It's easy to get lost when the plot twists and turns so much but once you're ready for it, this film proves to be an incredible journey. It doesn't get much more intense than the opening sequence at the gallows, setting the groundwork for a breathtaking, "heart-stopping" (get it?) sequence of events. More than anything, I'm glad that Disney did not worry about making this film kid-friendly. Better to do the film right and let the kids wait until they are older to see it than to dull down the action for the sake of selling more tickets (and consequently, this probably increased the number of adult viewers exponentially). Overall, I felt that about 20 minutes of this movie could have been cut out. It is cool to see a dozen Jack Sparrows running around but it didn't gel with the overall atmosphere of the film. More obviously, the whole Calypso thing was stupid and unnecessary. The rum jokes continue, but this film does a better job of standing on its own without relying on the jokes from the first two with the exception of the ending which cleverly plays homage to the first film. The character of Elizabeth Swann continues to develop into a kick-butt piratical joy to watch and is sure to be one of your favorites by the end of this film. A unique feature of the film is the constant confusion between who is the hero, who is the enemy, and who is both. Just when you think that the tables won't be turned on you again, they are turned twice. With rain crashing down, the writers created the most amazing setting for a final battle. Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing, can prepare you for the final 25 minutes of this trilogy. You are guarenteed to have your jaw drop until you realize that, since the first moments of the first film, the writers set this story up for the perfect ending. Finally, don't you dare turn the film off before you see the bonus ending - it brings perfect completion to the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, leaving you speechless and satisfied.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest - 9 stars out of 10
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest - 9 stars out of 10
"Dead Man's Chest" is another strong film in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. My criticism of this film is the writers who perhaps did not believe that this film could stand on it's own, often referencing funny moments from the first film as if this sequel depended on it. I lost count of the number of rum jokes at 5, but this film developed enough funny moments that these running gags were unnecessary. This film does serve as a good extension from the first as all of the characters are developed to a new level. Although Bloom's character becomes more annoying as the film progresses, Knightley's character (who I disliked in the first film) gains some depth and humor. Depp is amazing as the focus of the franchise shifts from Bloom to him and Bill Nighy is amazing as the sinister villain, Davy Jones. The special effects are incredible as the Kraken pushed the boundaries of realistic CGI monsters while the action sequences (like the extensive 3-man swordfight, one of the coolest fight scenes in any movie) keep pumping adrenaline and seem to never offer a break. Hans Zimmer outdoes himself with this heroic score, while also creating one of the most intensely haunting themes for the Kraken. Amidst the exciting and terrifying themes, he also offers whimsical musical moments, such as the circus-like escape from the cages hanging from the bridge. This is one of the few movies where I truly look forward to sitting through the credits because of Zimmer’s amazing score (my favorite musical moment of the entire movie actually occurs during the credits). Although this film (nor any other) can match the original, Dead Man's Chest offers a unique story, great action sequences, awesome characters, one of the most unbelievable cliff-hangers that I have ever experienced.
"Dead Man's Chest" is another strong film in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. My criticism of this film is the writers who perhaps did not believe that this film could stand on it's own, often referencing funny moments from the first film as if this sequel depended on it. I lost count of the number of rum jokes at 5, but this film developed enough funny moments that these running gags were unnecessary. This film does serve as a good extension from the first as all of the characters are developed to a new level. Although Bloom's character becomes more annoying as the film progresses, Knightley's character (who I disliked in the first film) gains some depth and humor. Depp is amazing as the focus of the franchise shifts from Bloom to him and Bill Nighy is amazing as the sinister villain, Davy Jones. The special effects are incredible as the Kraken pushed the boundaries of realistic CGI monsters while the action sequences (like the extensive 3-man swordfight, one of the coolest fight scenes in any movie) keep pumping adrenaline and seem to never offer a break. Hans Zimmer outdoes himself with this heroic score, while also creating one of the most intensely haunting themes for the Kraken. Amidst the exciting and terrifying themes, he also offers whimsical musical moments, such as the circus-like escape from the cages hanging from the bridge. This is one of the few movies where I truly look forward to sitting through the credits because of Zimmer’s amazing score (my favorite musical moment of the entire movie actually occurs during the credits). Although this film (nor any other) can match the original, Dead Man's Chest offers a unique story, great action sequences, awesome characters, one of the most unbelievable cliff-hangers that I have ever experienced.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl - 10 stars out of 10
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl - 10 stars out of 10
"Pirates of the Caribbean" is unquestionably one of the most imaginative movies of our generation. I would have never considered it a good idea to base a film franchise off of an amusement park ride but with Disney, anything is possible. The genius begins with the story, starting with the subject matter of pirates (for which there are not a lot of films) and finishing by effectively placing ghost pirates into a realistic setting that possesses an historical sensation. Well-developed characters and bumbling sidekicks add to this film's irresistible appeal. With this film, Johnny Depp went from star to megastar as he turned "Captain" Jack Sparrow into cinema's quirkiest, most recognizable hero. Not to mention that an incredible villain was born with Geoffrey Rush as Captain Barbossa. Filled with laughs, intensity, drama, and a swashbuckling soundtrack by Klaus Bedalt that punctuates every piratical moment, "The Curse of the Black Pearl" guarantees a fantastic viewing experience.
"Pirates of the Caribbean" is unquestionably one of the most imaginative movies of our generation. I would have never considered it a good idea to base a film franchise off of an amusement park ride but with Disney, anything is possible. The genius begins with the story, starting with the subject matter of pirates (for which there are not a lot of films) and finishing by effectively placing ghost pirates into a realistic setting that possesses an historical sensation. Well-developed characters and bumbling sidekicks add to this film's irresistible appeal. With this film, Johnny Depp went from star to megastar as he turned "Captain" Jack Sparrow into cinema's quirkiest, most recognizable hero. Not to mention that an incredible villain was born with Geoffrey Rush as Captain Barbossa. Filled with laughs, intensity, drama, and a swashbuckling soundtrack by Klaus Bedalt that punctuates every piratical moment, "The Curse of the Black Pearl" guarantees a fantastic viewing experience.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Problem Child - 2 stars out of 10
Problem Child - 2 stars out of 10
"Problem Child" is a pretty typical cheesy children's comedy from the 90's, with just enough dirt in it to give it edge. On a scale of 1 to Home Alone in this genre, Problem Child only manages a 2. Michael Oliver's voice is SO ANNOYING. I know that the kid is supposed to be like Dennis the Menace but this kid was just way too anno...ying. The film has its moments, like the party scene where Leslie Gore's "It's My Party" is a perfect fit. Also, Michael Richards makes a good comical villain. "Look, a giraffe!" "Look, a fist!" [punch] - I remember rewinding that over and over again as a kid. But the cheesiness of the ending is vomit-worthy and John Ritter's acting just did not do it for me. The movie was amusing as a kid but as my movie pallet has matured, I have left the below-average children's comedies behind.
"Problem Child" is a pretty typical cheesy children's comedy from the 90's, with just enough dirt in it to give it edge. On a scale of 1 to Home Alone in this genre, Problem Child only manages a 2. Michael Oliver's voice is SO ANNOYING. I know that the kid is supposed to be like Dennis the Menace but this kid was just way too anno...ying. The film has its moments, like the party scene where Leslie Gore's "It's My Party" is a perfect fit. Also, Michael Richards makes a good comical villain. "Look, a giraffe!" "Look, a fist!" [punch] - I remember rewinding that over and over again as a kid. But the cheesiness of the ending is vomit-worthy and John Ritter's acting just did not do it for me. The movie was amusing as a kid but as my movie pallet has matured, I have left the below-average children's comedies behind.
Lord of the Flies (1963) - 2 stars out of 10
Lord of the Flies (1963) - 2 stars out of 10
Often, a film can enhance a story taken from a novel through scenery and visual effects but "Lord of the Flies" only detracted from the book. I think that the amazing thing about the book is that you keep forgetting that these are young boys, which makes the ending so effective. With the film, you're always aware that they are boys and don't have that shock at the end. The low rating is not reflective of the acting or the story, but of the fact that this story is meant to be read and not seen. I love the story for its bold statement about human nature but this visual interpretation ruins that statement (and the purpose of the book). Please, read the book and do not view the film.
Often, a film can enhance a story taken from a novel through scenery and visual effects but "Lord of the Flies" only detracted from the book. I think that the amazing thing about the book is that you keep forgetting that these are young boys, which makes the ending so effective. With the film, you're always aware that they are boys and don't have that shock at the end. The low rating is not reflective of the acting or the story, but of the fact that this story is meant to be read and not seen. I love the story for its bold statement about human nature but this visual interpretation ruins that statement (and the purpose of the book). Please, read the book and do not view the film.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Rollercoaster - 7 stars out of 10
Rollercoaster - 7 stars out of 10
"Rollercoaster" is an intense manhunt that takes place in two different amusement parks. I get very annoyed when a movie's title implies that a movie will focus on a particular setting or theme (Adventureland, Eat Pray Love), only to reveal that the setting is of minimum importance. Rollercoaster does NOT do that, keeping the focus on the terrorists use of explosives on rollercoasters. This film does not try to hide the amusement park behind the action but allows them to interact through POV shots and clever situational writing. Although there aren't any megastars in the film, George Segal makes the great hero in desperation and Timothy Bottoms plays the psychopath well, exhibiting minimal emotions on the outside but displaying depth of thought through his eyes. Aside from a little bit of swearing, Rollercoaster is a family-friendly thriller that delivers precisely what the title suggests.
"Rollercoaster" is an intense manhunt that takes place in two different amusement parks. I get very annoyed when a movie's title implies that a movie will focus on a particular setting or theme (Adventureland, Eat Pray Love), only to reveal that the setting is of minimum importance. Rollercoaster does NOT do that, keeping the focus on the terrorists use of explosives on rollercoasters. This film does not try to hide the amusement park behind the action but allows them to interact through POV shots and clever situational writing. Although there aren't any megastars in the film, George Segal makes the great hero in desperation and Timothy Bottoms plays the psychopath well, exhibiting minimal emotions on the outside but displaying depth of thought through his eyes. Aside from a little bit of swearing, Rollercoaster is a family-friendly thriller that delivers precisely what the title suggests.
Barnum - 7 stars out of 10
Barnum - 7 stars out of 10
Michael Crawford puts on a clinic with his performance in "Barnum". And we're not just talking about singing and acting - you have to include dancing, gymnastics, juggling, and tightrope walking. This show is filmed during a live performance and would not be the same any other way. The circus scenes are impressive because of the energy that fills the auditorium, and filming the circus stunts on a soundstage simply would not have the same effect. The show has a festive atmosphere as Barnum oftedn breaks the fourth wall and make the audience a part of the story, as if they were actually under the big tent watching the circus. The music is exciting at first but becomes monotonous after a while. Certain songs are heartfelt while some are too cheesy ("One brick at a time, one single solitary brick) and after 90 minutes, they all start to sound the same. The story culminates with a show-stopping ending that will make you want to join the circus. "Barnum" is far from my favorite musical but this rendition is the best portrayal that this musical will ever see. Michael Crawford. Wow.
Michael Crawford puts on a clinic with his performance in "Barnum". And we're not just talking about singing and acting - you have to include dancing, gymnastics, juggling, and tightrope walking. This show is filmed during a live performance and would not be the same any other way. The circus scenes are impressive because of the energy that fills the auditorium, and filming the circus stunts on a soundstage simply would not have the same effect. The show has a festive atmosphere as Barnum oftedn breaks the fourth wall and make the audience a part of the story, as if they were actually under the big tent watching the circus. The music is exciting at first but becomes monotonous after a while. Certain songs are heartfelt while some are too cheesy ("One brick at a time, one single solitary brick) and after 90 minutes, they all start to sound the same. The story culminates with a show-stopping ending that will make you want to join the circus. "Barnum" is far from my favorite musical but this rendition is the best portrayal that this musical will ever see. Michael Crawford. Wow.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Illusionist (L'illusionniste) (2010) - 6 stars out of 10
The Illusionist (L'illusionniste) (2010) - 6 stars out of 10
"The Illusionist" is a downer but provides a unique insight into the tranformation of stage performances in the late 1950's. The story has its humorous moments, like its tongue-in-cheek portrayal of British rock bands, but maintains a serious tone as it explores the outcasting of certain types of stage performers from the entertainment industry. The film is unique, offering no more than two dozen isolated lines of dialogue in its entire 80 minutes. The rare occurrence of dialogue makes a statement about the ability of writers and animators to develop a character simply through mannerisms and the character's reaction to his surroundings. I probably would not watch this film again but it was refreshingly different from any film, animated or live action, that I have ever seen.
"The Illusionist" is a downer but provides a unique insight into the tranformation of stage performances in the late 1950's. The story has its humorous moments, like its tongue-in-cheek portrayal of British rock bands, but maintains a serious tone as it explores the outcasting of certain types of stage performers from the entertainment industry. The film is unique, offering no more than two dozen isolated lines of dialogue in its entire 80 minutes. The rare occurrence of dialogue makes a statement about the ability of writers and animators to develop a character simply through mannerisms and the character's reaction to his surroundings. I probably would not watch this film again but it was refreshingly different from any film, animated or live action, that I have ever seen.
Punch-Drunk Love - 2 stars out of 10
Punch-Drunk Love - 2 stars out of 10
"Punch-Drunk Love" and I have an interesting history together. I watched this film during college and thought that it was awful. I gave it a second chance in 2011, assuming that it could not have been nearly as awful as I remembered... and it was worse. Finally, I gave this film a third chance (forgetting that I had given it a second chance) in hopes that a greater knowledge of stylistic film would help me to better understand this odd presentation. I still didn't get it, but appreciated some of its unique characteristics enough to bump my rating from one star to two. And now I will never feel the need to revisit this film again. I mean it this time. More than anything, I wish that I could make sense of the critical acclaim for this film. Part of the problem could be personal preference. I didn't care for director Paul Thomas Anderson's "Inherent Vice" and I straight up hated "The Master," so maybe I'm destined to dislike his style. Then again, my wife was completely on board with me, commenting that "it's as if the studio took the ten worst movies that they didn't want to make and threw them all together. 'Some random piano story? Okay. Adult phone service gone wrong? Got it. Awkward love story? Why not!'" I love Adam Sandler's stupid humor roles from the 90's and his serious roles from the 00's, but this falls somewhere in between and ends up falling flat. The third time around, I found myself enjoying his outbursts more and really rooting for him as an underdog, but is this performance really worth a Golden Globe nomination? The redeeming piece of this puzzle could have been Philip Seymour Hoffman's character but he was limited to less than six minutes of screen time and the most interesting facet of this story is largely undeveloped. At times, the music gets so loud that you can barely hear the dialogue. At first, I was extremely bothered but then I realized that the director is trying to make the audience feel the same angst that Sandler is experiencing. Well played Mr. Anderson. Maybe I just don't get it, but "Punch-Drunk Love" is a dark comedy that feels random and unsatisfying. I just cannot recommend this swearfest-without-substance in good conscience. Not even after giving it a third try.
"Punch-Drunk Love" and I have an interesting history together. I watched this film during college and thought that it was awful. I gave it a second chance in 2011, assuming that it could not have been nearly as awful as I remembered... and it was worse. Finally, I gave this film a third chance (forgetting that I had given it a second chance) in hopes that a greater knowledge of stylistic film would help me to better understand this odd presentation. I still didn't get it, but appreciated some of its unique characteristics enough to bump my rating from one star to two. And now I will never feel the need to revisit this film again. I mean it this time. More than anything, I wish that I could make sense of the critical acclaim for this film. Part of the problem could be personal preference. I didn't care for director Paul Thomas Anderson's "Inherent Vice" and I straight up hated "The Master," so maybe I'm destined to dislike his style. Then again, my wife was completely on board with me, commenting that "it's as if the studio took the ten worst movies that they didn't want to make and threw them all together. 'Some random piano story? Okay. Adult phone service gone wrong? Got it. Awkward love story? Why not!'" I love Adam Sandler's stupid humor roles from the 90's and his serious roles from the 00's, but this falls somewhere in between and ends up falling flat. The third time around, I found myself enjoying his outbursts more and really rooting for him as an underdog, but is this performance really worth a Golden Globe nomination? The redeeming piece of this puzzle could have been Philip Seymour Hoffman's character but he was limited to less than six minutes of screen time and the most interesting facet of this story is largely undeveloped. At times, the music gets so loud that you can barely hear the dialogue. At first, I was extremely bothered but then I realized that the director is trying to make the audience feel the same angst that Sandler is experiencing. Well played Mr. Anderson. Maybe I just don't get it, but "Punch-Drunk Love" is a dark comedy that feels random and unsatisfying. I just cannot recommend this swearfest-without-substance in good conscience. Not even after giving it a third try.
[Pictured: Yep, this is what you can expect for 90 minutes of your life when you watch this]
Monday, May 16, 2011
Frozen (2010) - 7 stars out of 10
Frozen (2010) - 7 stars out of 10
"Frozen" may not match up to the acting quality of "127 Hours," but its similar premise still delivers an adrenaline-pumping punch. In fact, I have to give this film a high rating simply for its affectiveness, as my heart is still pounding and I am not sure that I will ever going skiing after seeing this film. This script takes the... premise as far as it can go; unfortunately, this limitation prevents the story from developing beyond the slopes. Though none of the actors should get an Oscar for their performance, they are excellent at portraying the three necessary emotions for this film: devastation, sentimentality, and terror. The above-average acting (particularly Bell during the wolf attack and urination scenes) combines with well-written musical cues to quickly transition between these emotions to provide a constant driving energy. As a warning, this is not a good movie for you if you are squeamish (i.e. you do not want to see the bone sticking out of someone?M)s broken leg or see someone eaten alive). Just like "127", the gore is a necessity but will likely make you think twice before stepping foot on a ski lift ever again.
"Frozen" may not match up to the acting quality of "127 Hours," but its similar premise still delivers an adrenaline-pumping punch. In fact, I have to give this film a high rating simply for its affectiveness, as my heart is still pounding and I am not sure that I will ever going skiing after seeing this film. This script takes the... premise as far as it can go; unfortunately, this limitation prevents the story from developing beyond the slopes. Though none of the actors should get an Oscar for their performance, they are excellent at portraying the three necessary emotions for this film: devastation, sentimentality, and terror. The above-average acting (particularly Bell during the wolf attack and urination scenes) combines with well-written musical cues to quickly transition between these emotions to provide a constant driving energy. As a warning, this is not a good movie for you if you are squeamish (i.e. you do not want to see the bone sticking out of someone?M)s broken leg or see someone eaten alive). Just like "127", the gore is a necessity but will likely make you think twice before stepping foot on a ski lift ever again.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
The Matrix Revolutions - 6 stars out of 10
The Matrix Revolutions - 6 stars out of 10
The Matrix Revolutions cannot stand on its own as a complete film; it is merely an extension of the preceeding film. It manages to complete the "revolution" from the original's use of live-action sequences with an inclusion of CGI where necessary to a computer animated film that occasionally includes live actors. Many of the Zion battle sequences and particularly "the final battle" are completely CGI. This is not Star Wars: The Clone Wars - the production scene should have looked at what made the original Matrix so incredible and stuck with it. While I really enjoyed Bruce Spence as the trainman and Tanveer K. Atwal as Sati, I was annoyed that they found a way to include the Merovingian in this film and once again, he was entirely unnecessary. The Matrix offers some interesting visuals but falls short of the action sequences and story provided by Reloaded. The ending of the series is a confusing let-down and if I could, I would go back in time and stop watching after the original Matrix.
The Matrix Revolutions cannot stand on its own as a complete film; it is merely an extension of the preceeding film. It manages to complete the "revolution" from the original's use of live-action sequences with an inclusion of CGI where necessary to a computer animated film that occasionally includes live actors. Many of the Zion battle sequences and particularly "the final battle" are completely CGI. This is not Star Wars: The Clone Wars - the production scene should have looked at what made the original Matrix so incredible and stuck with it. While I really enjoyed Bruce Spence as the trainman and Tanveer K. Atwal as Sati, I was annoyed that they found a way to include the Merovingian in this film and once again, he was entirely unnecessary. The Matrix offers some interesting visuals but falls short of the action sequences and story provided by Reloaded. The ending of the series is a confusing let-down and if I could, I would go back in time and stop watching after the original Matrix.
The Matrix Reloaded - 8 stars out of 10
The Matrix Reloaded - 8 stars out of 10
The Matrix Reloaded picks up several months after the original ends. It exceeds the standard of incredible visual effects and fight sequences set forth by the original but, while the original focused heavily on live-action sequences and inserted CGI where necessary, Reloaded relies on CGI to the point that half of the action scenes are completely live (the Merovingian's chateau) and the other half are primarily CGI (Neo fighting the Smiths, the semis ramming each other). I like the additions of Jada Pinkett Smith and Harold Perrineau Jr., but did not like the addition of long-winded (and unnecessary) monologues that confused the plot and detracted from the storyline instead of enhancing it. I'm still trying to figure out why the Merovingian was necessary at all. The Matrix Reloaded strives to answer many of the questions left unanswered by the first film; however, some of these answers were better left shrouded by mystery .
The Matrix Reloaded picks up several months after the original ends. It exceeds the standard of incredible visual effects and fight sequences set forth by the original but, while the original focused heavily on live-action sequences and inserted CGI where necessary, Reloaded relies on CGI to the point that half of the action scenes are completely live (the Merovingian's chateau) and the other half are primarily CGI (Neo fighting the Smiths, the semis ramming each other). I like the additions of Jada Pinkett Smith and Harold Perrineau Jr., but did not like the addition of long-winded (and unnecessary) monologues that confused the plot and detracted from the storyline instead of enhancing it. I'm still trying to figure out why the Merovingian was necessary at all. The Matrix Reloaded strives to answer many of the questions left unanswered by the first film; however, some of these answers were better left shrouded by mystery .
The Matrix - 10 stars out of 10
The Matrix - 10 stars out of 10
The Matrix is the ultimate mind-bending film. It's groundbreaking special effects, filming techniques, and unique artistic imagery are an incredible visual "experience," even 10+ years after the film was released. Amidst the incredible martial arts scenes and awesome gun fights lies one of the coolest worldview-changing concepts in any sci-fi movie. Although I typically hate Keanu Reeves, his dry delivery of lines is perfect for the character of Neo. Fishburne and Weaving give their most memorable acting performances while Moss and Pantoliano bring their characters to life. The Matrix is a complete package and the 2nd and 3rd installments hinder the amazing story created in the original. Although you will miss out on some amazing fight scenes by skipping Parts II and III, I truly recommend ending at the end of The Matrix and allowing your mind to fill in the rest.
The Matrix is the ultimate mind-bending film. It's groundbreaking special effects, filming techniques, and unique artistic imagery are an incredible visual "experience," even 10+ years after the film was released. Amidst the incredible martial arts scenes and awesome gun fights lies one of the coolest worldview-changing concepts in any sci-fi movie. Although I typically hate Keanu Reeves, his dry delivery of lines is perfect for the character of Neo. Fishburne and Weaving give their most memorable acting performances while Moss and Pantoliano bring their characters to life. The Matrix is a complete package and the 2nd and 3rd installments hinder the amazing story created in the original. Although you will miss out on some amazing fight scenes by skipping Parts II and III, I truly recommend ending at the end of The Matrix and allowing your mind to fill in the rest.
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