The Color of Freedom (Goodbye Bafana) - 7 stars out of 10
This story of Nelson Mandela's 20+ year detainment in South Africa, from the perspective of prison guard James Gregory, gives a unique insight into the life of Mandela as well as the persecution suffered by his supporters. Although Dennis Haysbert was at a distinct disadvantage due to Morgan Freeman portraying Nelson Mandela within two years of this film, I consider it a victory for Haysbert because I was able to watching this movie without thinking "All State." I love Diane Kruger in any role, especially an emotional role like this one, and Joseph Fiennes breaks away from his "Will Shakespeare" stereotype by playing a prison guard. Films are always more poignant when you know that they are true and this is definitely the case for "The Color of Freedom." Whether it is the moments that make you smile like the stick fight or the tragic emotional breakdowns, this film is a slice of history that is worth experiencing.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Amelia - 2 stars out of 10
Amelia - 2 stars out of 10
Once upon a time, a movie was created that centered around airplanes and managed to avoid action scenes. There just wasn't any action. At all. The final stretch across the Pacific was particularly painful. How many times can the control station send the same message and then show her not hearing before it gets annoying? But the thing that bothered me the most was that they didn't really let the love story develop. It was just like, "Well, here ya' go. It's there." I typically love the acting of Swank, Gere, McGregor, and Anderson, but this movie fell flat and I was just glad when it was over. If there's one thing that Hollywood can learn from this film, it is that all peoples' lives were not meant to be turned into biopics, even if they faced a tragedy.
Once upon a time, a movie was created that centered around airplanes and managed to avoid action scenes. There just wasn't any action. At all. The final stretch across the Pacific was particularly painful. How many times can the control station send the same message and then show her not hearing before it gets annoying? But the thing that bothered me the most was that they didn't really let the love story develop. It was just like, "Well, here ya' go. It's there." I typically love the acting of Swank, Gere, McGregor, and Anderson, but this movie fell flat and I was just glad when it was over. If there's one thing that Hollywood can learn from this film, it is that all peoples' lives were not meant to be turned into biopics, even if they faced a tragedy.
Splice - 8 stars out of 10
Splice - 8 stars out of 10
Splice started out as a really unique creature movie. I don't know if a person could watch this without thinking (at least for a few seconds) about how scary genetic engineering really is. A brief comment about Adrien Brody - how has this guy made it in Hollywood with that nose!?!?!? Seriously, watching him kiss someone really made me realize that his nose was not meant for the screen. Though farfetched, the story was fresh and interesting, especially the presentation scene with the shareholders (shocking and awesome). I had heard about the vulgar gore but felt that everything was completely reasonable... until this movie took a turn in the final 1/2-hour. THE TWO SCENES are sickening and disturbing. The scene with Brody made my jaw drop but I managed. I truly struggled not to look away during the scene with Polley and it was absolutely one of the most messed up things that I have seen in my entire life. Not to mention that the ending was infuriating. Still, as disgusted as I was, the shock value of this film is what earned it 4 stars - Splice left an imprint on me and will not soon be forgotten. The majority of this movie is filled with mystery and unique character development (or perhaps evolution is a better word), but once the shocking scenes occur, nothing prior to it matters.
Splice started out as a really unique creature movie. I don't know if a person could watch this without thinking (at least for a few seconds) about how scary genetic engineering really is. A brief comment about Adrien Brody - how has this guy made it in Hollywood with that nose!?!?!? Seriously, watching him kiss someone really made me realize that his nose was not meant for the screen. Though farfetched, the story was fresh and interesting, especially the presentation scene with the shareholders (shocking and awesome). I had heard about the vulgar gore but felt that everything was completely reasonable... until this movie took a turn in the final 1/2-hour. THE TWO SCENES are sickening and disturbing. The scene with Brody made my jaw drop but I managed. I truly struggled not to look away during the scene with Polley and it was absolutely one of the most messed up things that I have seen in my entire life. Not to mention that the ending was infuriating. Still, as disgusted as I was, the shock value of this film is what earned it 4 stars - Splice left an imprint on me and will not soon be forgotten. The majority of this movie is filled with mystery and unique character development (or perhaps evolution is a better word), but once the shocking scenes occur, nothing prior to it matters.
Ballet Shoes - 5 stars out of 10
Ballet Shoes - 5 stars out of 10
I began Ballet Shoes with a lot of skepticism, expecting a cheesy ABC Family film whose only draw was Emma Watson. Though it is not a cinematic masterpiece, this movie manages to tell an interesting story of three orphans who find their place in the arts. I appreciated the fact that the story focused on a classical repertoire of music and dance instead of a modern one (as 95% of recent movies do when involving the arts). There was some interesting character development amidst the three girls, as their successes and failures shaped who they are. Watson proves that she has a future beyond Harry Potter through a few effective emotional moments. Surprisingly, the low point of this movie for me was the adults, whose characters were static and forgettable. The ending was a bit abrupt and not entirely satisfying as little was resolved or explained but overall, I recommend this as a nice family film.
I began Ballet Shoes with a lot of skepticism, expecting a cheesy ABC Family film whose only draw was Emma Watson. Though it is not a cinematic masterpiece, this movie manages to tell an interesting story of three orphans who find their place in the arts. I appreciated the fact that the story focused on a classical repertoire of music and dance instead of a modern one (as 95% of recent movies do when involving the arts). There was some interesting character development amidst the three girls, as their successes and failures shaped who they are. Watson proves that she has a future beyond Harry Potter through a few effective emotional moments. Surprisingly, the low point of this movie for me was the adults, whose characters were static and forgettable. The ending was a bit abrupt and not entirely satisfying as little was resolved or explained but overall, I recommend this as a nice family film.
The Running Man - 5 stars out of 10
The Running Man - 5 stars out of 10
The Running Man is very nostalgic if you love dated 80's movies. It is not as twisted as I expect a Stephen King story to be but is full of classic Schwarzenegger action, including my favorite Schwarzenegger line of all time: "But I hope you leave enough room for my fist, because I'm going to ram it into your stomach!" Stories involving government censorship of the media always create a unique sociological perspective but this film simply cannot compare to Fahrenheit 451 or Equilibrium. Maria Conchita Alongso is pretty annoying, which doesn't help this movie's cause. In the end, justice is served but the journey to that justice proves to be that of a typical action film. I would much rather watch American Gladiators on ESPN Classic.
The Running Man is very nostalgic if you love dated 80's movies. It is not as twisted as I expect a Stephen King story to be but is full of classic Schwarzenegger action, including my favorite Schwarzenegger line of all time: "But I hope you leave enough room for my fist, because I'm going to ram it into your stomach!" Stories involving government censorship of the media always create a unique sociological perspective but this film simply cannot compare to Fahrenheit 451 or Equilibrium. Maria Conchita Alongso is pretty annoying, which doesn't help this movie's cause. In the end, justice is served but the journey to that justice proves to be that of a typical action film. I would much rather watch American Gladiators on ESPN Classic.
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian - 9 stars out of 10
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian - 9 stars out of 10
200th Review
I really enjoyed the first "Night at the Museum" but this sequel is superior to the original. In "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian", we meet even more endearing historical characters the the first, many of which are brought to life through entertaining cameos. I would highly recommend rewatching the original before watching this sequel. Although the movie can stand on its own, the first 20 minutes of the film is a wash if you haven't renewed your connection to the characters developed during the first film. There are a ton of laugh-out-loud moments, especially the entire exchange between Stiller and "Brundon." Amidst the stars of the film, Hank Azaria shines brighter than the rest. It's unfortunate that most people don't know of him beyond The Simpsons - his comic genius is at its best in this role. Though I hesitate to mention any other actor, due to Azaria being so amazi in this film, Amy Adams is adorable as Amelia. Just had to throw that out there. The use of historical props from the Natural History Museum is incredibly clever, while the sequences in the Museum of Art shows true visual artistic innovation. I know that this is "just a children's comedy" but the art museum sequence is one of the more sophisticated ideas that I have seen in any film. The Thinker... lol. Darth Vadar and Oscar the Grouch... double lol. The dialogue is so clever ("The Love Theme from Titanic... not really appropriate") that you won't stop laughing from start to finish. Top this hilarious experience with a heartfelt ending that might even have you a little choked up and you will find that the Battle of the Smithsonian is the complete package for children, adults, and anybody in-between.
200th Review
I really enjoyed the first "Night at the Museum" but this sequel is superior to the original. In "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian", we meet even more endearing historical characters the the first, many of which are brought to life through entertaining cameos. I would highly recommend rewatching the original before watching this sequel. Although the movie can stand on its own, the first 20 minutes of the film is a wash if you haven't renewed your connection to the characters developed during the first film. There are a ton of laugh-out-loud moments, especially the entire exchange between Stiller and "Brundon." Amidst the stars of the film, Hank Azaria shines brighter than the rest. It's unfortunate that most people don't know of him beyond The Simpsons - his comic genius is at its best in this role. Though I hesitate to mention any other actor, due to Azaria being so amazi in this film, Amy Adams is adorable as Amelia. Just had to throw that out there. The use of historical props from the Natural History Museum is incredibly clever, while the sequences in the Museum of Art shows true visual artistic innovation. I know that this is "just a children's comedy" but the art museum sequence is one of the more sophisticated ideas that I have seen in any film. The Thinker... lol. Darth Vadar and Oscar the Grouch... double lol. The dialogue is so clever ("The Love Theme from Titanic... not really appropriate") that you won't stop laughing from start to finish. Top this hilarious experience with a heartfelt ending that might even have you a little choked up and you will find that the Battle of the Smithsonian is the complete package for children, adults, and anybody in-between.
Ascenseur pour l'échafaud (Elevator to the Gallows) - 6 stars out of 10
Ascenseur pour l'échafaud (Elevator to the Gallows) - 6 stars out of 10
"Ascenseur pour l'échafaud" is a unique premise with an above-average execution. When a murderer is trapped in an elevator after his crime, it turns out that this tragic situation could end up being the alibi that will prove his innocence. Enjoyable acting performances, as well as a soundtrack recorded by Miles Davis, make this a classic period piece in the film noir genre. To me, the standout actress of the film was the lovely Yori Bertin playing the wide-eyed flower shop girl who unintentionally finds herself at the center of the films chain of events. My only complaint is that the character Louis is so foolish, but in the end the mistakes caused by his immaturity help the story to end perfectly. You may think that you have this film figured out within the first 15 minutes but you cannot anticipate the events that will lead to the final resolution.
"Ascenseur pour l'échafaud" is a unique premise with an above-average execution. When a murderer is trapped in an elevator after his crime, it turns out that this tragic situation could end up being the alibi that will prove his innocence. Enjoyable acting performances, as well as a soundtrack recorded by Miles Davis, make this a classic period piece in the film noir genre. To me, the standout actress of the film was the lovely Yori Bertin playing the wide-eyed flower shop girl who unintentionally finds herself at the center of the films chain of events. My only complaint is that the character Louis is so foolish, but in the end the mistakes caused by his immaturity help the story to end perfectly. You may think that you have this film figured out within the first 15 minutes but you cannot anticipate the events that will lead to the final resolution.
Dorian Gray - 5 stars out of 10
Dorian Gray - 5 stars out of 10
Interesting story, average film. While this ultimate tale of narcissism is fascinating, the special effects were really cool, and Ben Barnes visually made the perfect Dorian Gray, the graphic sexual content was just too much. From what I can gather from a little research, Oscar Wilde's novel did contain homosexuality but not the bro...thels that were shown in this adaptation of the story. I do understand that this graphic portrayal shows the corruption of Gray and why the painting becomes so disfigured, but those moments were not pleasant to watch. The film is well cast and provides great acting (particularly Rachel Hurd-Wood as Sibyl) but anybody who has "virgin eyes" might do better with an older version that stays truer to the original novel.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Predators (2010) - 2 stars out of 10
Predators (2010) - 2 stars out of 10
Adrien Brody, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?!?!? There is no reason for an Oscar-winner to sign on for a horror franchise extension, and the final line of the film confirms this. While "Predators" boasted some cool special effects, the story was predictable and only one of the twists impressed me (Topher Grace). My major complaint is the failure to explain HOW they got there. Although it is never clearly stated why the government has sent them there, the dialogue explains that they are all bad people but... why this punishment and how did they get there? I was also bothered by the obvious attempt to tie this film in with the originals through the testimony of Braga, since this film was completely UNRELATED to the originals. The fighting was good and creatures were cool, but the script and the gaps in the plot left me dissatisfied.
P.S. Laurence Fishburne is awesome, as always.
Adrien Brody, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?!?!? There is no reason for an Oscar-winner to sign on for a horror franchise extension, and the final line of the film confirms this. While "Predators" boasted some cool special effects, the story was predictable and only one of the twists impressed me (Topher Grace). My major complaint is the failure to explain HOW they got there. Although it is never clearly stated why the government has sent them there, the dialogue explains that they are all bad people but... why this punishment and how did they get there? I was also bothered by the obvious attempt to tie this film in with the originals through the testimony of Braga, since this film was completely UNRELATED to the originals. The fighting was good and creatures were cool, but the script and the gaps in the plot left me dissatisfied.
P.S. Laurence Fishburne is awesome, as always.
The Elephant Man - 10 stars out of 10
The Elephant Man - 10 stars out of 10
"The Elephant Man" is worthy of each of its 8 Academy Award nominations and it is absurd that it did not win anything. It is appropriate that they created a "best make-up" category following the year of The Elephant Man, but it was too little, too late. Along with Planet of the Apes, The Elephant Man set a new standard for make-up in film. But there is more to this movie than impressive make-up effects. From the tear running down Anthony Hopkins' cheek to the final scene set to Barber's tragic "Adagio for Strings," David Lynch successfully captured the emotion of this sorrowful story. One of the most effective features of the film is how Lynch entices the viewer to react to Merrick's appearance. This character (incredibly played by John Hurt) is shrouded in mystery as we only get to see the reactions to his appearance by characters in the film. After Hopkins reacts with emotion, then the doctors, then the nurses, we finally get our first good view of Merrick in his hospital room as the nurse reacts with terror. At that moment, it's hard to believe what you see on screen, let alone to comprehend that this "human" existed. Although a few of the scenes are historically inaccurate (some things happen in different orders, his "owner" may not have actually abused him), the "extra" drama is necessary to elicit the necessary emotions throughout the film. The Elephant Man is one of the saddest (and yet touching) films ever created, highlighted by beautiful performances by Hurt, Bancroft, Dunlop, an infuriating performance by Elphick, and particularly by the tears of Gordon and Hopkins. The Elephant Man is a film that will not soon be forgotten and you are missing out until you've experienced it.
"The Elephant Man" is worthy of each of its 8 Academy Award nominations and it is absurd that it did not win anything. It is appropriate that they created a "best make-up" category following the year of The Elephant Man, but it was too little, too late. Along with Planet of the Apes, The Elephant Man set a new standard for make-up in film. But there is more to this movie than impressive make-up effects. From the tear running down Anthony Hopkins' cheek to the final scene set to Barber's tragic "Adagio for Strings," David Lynch successfully captured the emotion of this sorrowful story. One of the most effective features of the film is how Lynch entices the viewer to react to Merrick's appearance. This character (incredibly played by John Hurt) is shrouded in mystery as we only get to see the reactions to his appearance by characters in the film. After Hopkins reacts with emotion, then the doctors, then the nurses, we finally get our first good view of Merrick in his hospital room as the nurse reacts with terror. At that moment, it's hard to believe what you see on screen, let alone to comprehend that this "human" existed. Although a few of the scenes are historically inaccurate (some things happen in different orders, his "owner" may not have actually abused him), the "extra" drama is necessary to elicit the necessary emotions throughout the film. The Elephant Man is one of the saddest (and yet touching) films ever created, highlighted by beautiful performances by Hurt, Bancroft, Dunlop, an infuriating performance by Elphick, and particularly by the tears of Gordon and Hopkins. The Elephant Man is a film that will not soon be forgotten and you are missing out until you've experienced it.
The Human Centipede (First Sequence) - No rating
The Human Centipede (First Sequence) - No rating
This is the most awful thing that I have ever seen in my entire life. I watched the first hour and then could not stand anymore - after reading a summary of the final 1/2-hour, I am so glad that I did not finish. I'm still nauseas and wish that I could wipe this entire concept from my memory forever. You can't even consider this a movie - it is a sadistic expression of Tom Six's psychological instability. The two girls are absolutely AWFUL actresses and I was glad that the script did not waste any time developing their characters, having them abducted less than 10 minutes into the film. However, anything would be better than what followed. Dieter Laser gives meaning to the term "mad scientist," and I wish that I hadn't discovered that through this film. I used to think that the Saw movies were shocking and it must have taken a really sick mind to come up with all of those awful situations but next to this, the Saw movies seem like FernGully. "The Human Centipede" is the most demented thing that I have ever seen and I do not recommend this for anybody. I refuse to give this abomination a star rating because it cannot be considered "entertainment" by any standard. I have a strong stomach, but nothing could have prepared me for this horrific display of evil.
This is the most awful thing that I have ever seen in my entire life. I watched the first hour and then could not stand anymore - after reading a summary of the final 1/2-hour, I am so glad that I did not finish. I'm still nauseas and wish that I could wipe this entire concept from my memory forever. You can't even consider this a movie - it is a sadistic expression of Tom Six's psychological instability. The two girls are absolutely AWFUL actresses and I was glad that the script did not waste any time developing their characters, having them abducted less than 10 minutes into the film. However, anything would be better than what followed. Dieter Laser gives meaning to the term "mad scientist," and I wish that I hadn't discovered that through this film. I used to think that the Saw movies were shocking and it must have taken a really sick mind to come up with all of those awful situations but next to this, the Saw movies seem like FernGully. "The Human Centipede" is the most demented thing that I have ever seen and I do not recommend this for anybody. I refuse to give this abomination a star rating because it cannot be considered "entertainment" by any standard. I have a strong stomach, but nothing could have prepared me for this horrific display of evil.
Revenge of the Nerds - 5 stars out of 10
Revenge of the Nerds - 5 stars out of 10
Who DOESN'T want to see the nerds beat the jocks? This predictable 80's comedy stereotypes the main cliques in high school/college society and allows the brains to dominate the braun. You'll be rooting for Carradine and Edwards from the first scene until the final battle. P.S. The talent show scene is awesome. =)
Who DOESN'T want to see the nerds beat the jocks? This predictable 80's comedy stereotypes the main cliques in high school/college society and allows the brains to dominate the braun. You'll be rooting for Carradine and Edwards from the first scene until the final battle. P.S. The talent show scene is awesome. =)
Paths of Glory - 3 stars out of 10
Paths of Glory - 3 stars out of 10
There's nothing too thrilling about Paths of Glory. Although it has been applauded as one of the strongest anti-war films ever made, it cannot compare to films like Platoon and Saving Private Ryan. The court scene is fantastic and the film has a few other high points, but overall it failed to engage my emotions. Krik Douglas plays his role well but most of the characters die or disappear from the script before their characters can be properly developed. It is an interesting story but was not realized in the detail that would have done it justice.
There's nothing too thrilling about Paths of Glory. Although it has been applauded as one of the strongest anti-war films ever made, it cannot compare to films like Platoon and Saving Private Ryan. The court scene is fantastic and the film has a few other high points, but overall it failed to engage my emotions. Krik Douglas plays his role well but most of the characters die or disappear from the script before their characters can be properly developed. It is an interesting story but was not realized in the detail that would have done it justice.
American Graffiti - 8 stars out of 10
American Graffiti - 8 stars out of 10
The thing that is great about this film is not the movie itself, but instead the statement that it makes about rock 'n roll culture of the early 60's. It takes the form of a historical preservation of events, as George Lucas turned three phases of his life into three of the main characters. That being said, I don't find the story to be particularly impressive. The above-average acting creates memorable characters who grow as the movie progresses, but they could've grown through a better plot. If nothing else, it is entertaining to see some of our favorite actors (Dreyfuss, Howard, and Ford) performing at a young age. I was particularly impressed with the characterization of Mackenzie Phillips and Charles Martin Smith (as well as Dreyfuss), and honestly cannot understand how Candy Clark received an Oscar nod and none of the others. If anything, I'd list her 6th or 7th of the performances that I enjoyed. The film rightfully did not beat The Sting for best picture, but it will certainly forever be remembered as an accurate and realistic depiction of the cruising culture of the 60's.
The thing that is great about this film is not the movie itself, but instead the statement that it makes about rock 'n roll culture of the early 60's. It takes the form of a historical preservation of events, as George Lucas turned three phases of his life into three of the main characters. That being said, I don't find the story to be particularly impressive. The above-average acting creates memorable characters who grow as the movie progresses, but they could've grown through a better plot. If nothing else, it is entertaining to see some of our favorite actors (Dreyfuss, Howard, and Ford) performing at a young age. I was particularly impressed with the characterization of Mackenzie Phillips and Charles Martin Smith (as well as Dreyfuss), and honestly cannot understand how Candy Clark received an Oscar nod and none of the others. If anything, I'd list her 6th or 7th of the performances that I enjoyed. The film rightfully did not beat The Sting for best picture, but it will certainly forever be remembered as an accurate and realistic depiction of the cruising culture of the 60's.
The Count of Monte Cristo - 10 stars out of 10
The Count of Monte Cristo - 10 stars out of 10
Wonderful old-fashioned story, amazing acting, awesome climactic ending - "The Count of Monte Cristo" is a dark, non-stop thrill ride of passion and vengeance. I have never seen Guy Pearce in a purely evil role like this, but he really engaged my emotions and made me despise his character. Despite excellent performances by Richard Harris and the stunning Dagmara Dominczyk, Jim Caviezel easily steals the spotlight in his epic journey. His emotions come to life in prison, perfectly setting up the second half of the film. Although I like Luis Guzman, I couldn't help but feel that he was out of place in this role, but everything else was so great that I didn't mind too much. I highly recommend this clean action film with great fighting, a classic storyline, a beautiful musical score, and of course the dynamic acting of a delightful cast.
Wonderful old-fashioned story, amazing acting, awesome climactic ending - "The Count of Monte Cristo" is a dark, non-stop thrill ride of passion and vengeance. I have never seen Guy Pearce in a purely evil role like this, but he really engaged my emotions and made me despise his character. Despite excellent performances by Richard Harris and the stunning Dagmara Dominczyk, Jim Caviezel easily steals the spotlight in his epic journey. His emotions come to life in prison, perfectly setting up the second half of the film. Although I like Luis Guzman, I couldn't help but feel that he was out of place in this role, but everything else was so great that I didn't mind too much. I highly recommend this clean action film with great fighting, a classic storyline, a beautiful musical score, and of course the dynamic acting of a delightful cast.
12 - 9 stars out of 10
12 - 9 stars out of 10
This Russian remake of "12 Angry Men" (which is arguably the greatest court film in cinema history) stays true to the original through amazing acting performances by developing characters that do not even possess names. This modern take on the story does seem a bit more presumptuous than the original but still keeps you on the edge of your seat as the jury members slowly unravel the court case in the deliberation room. Touching stories from the lives of individual jurors presented with incredible emotion help them to see the evidence more clearly as they struggle to reach a unanimous decision. Russian director Nikita Mikhalkov (who also plays one of the jurors) brings his culture into the story to keep it from feeling the same as 12 Angry Men, all under the guise of a beautiful musical score. If you love 12 Angry Men, this movie will surely be a treat for you; however, if you have not seen 12 Angry Men, I would definitely recommend seeing it in place of this remake.
This Russian remake of "12 Angry Men" (which is arguably the greatest court film in cinema history) stays true to the original through amazing acting performances by developing characters that do not even possess names. This modern take on the story does seem a bit more presumptuous than the original but still keeps you on the edge of your seat as the jury members slowly unravel the court case in the deliberation room. Touching stories from the lives of individual jurors presented with incredible emotion help them to see the evidence more clearly as they struggle to reach a unanimous decision. Russian director Nikita Mikhalkov (who also plays one of the jurors) brings his culture into the story to keep it from feeling the same as 12 Angry Men, all under the guise of a beautiful musical score. If you love 12 Angry Men, this movie will surely be a treat for you; however, if you have not seen 12 Angry Men, I would definitely recommend seeing it in place of this remake.
Grown Ups - 7 stars out of 10
Grown Ups - 7 stars out of 10
"Grown Ups" is another film in a string of comedies that fails to identify a target audience. The previews (and much of the film's slapstick content) is obviously intended for children, as if this is a family film; unfortunately, some of the language, sexual content, and breast feeding give it the sensation of a late-teen/young adult comedy. The highlight of the film is unquestionably Steve Buscemi, working the full-body cast with expertise. I really enjoyed the stereotypical interactions between Sandler, James, Schneider, Rock, and Spade, but the interactions often became confused when mixed in with kids for a family-movie feel. It isn't Billy Madison or 50 First Dates, but Sandler's humor shines through to create an entertaining story - just don't pick it for Family Movie Night!
"Grown Ups" is another film in a string of comedies that fails to identify a target audience. The previews (and much of the film's slapstick content) is obviously intended for children, as if this is a family film; unfortunately, some of the language, sexual content, and breast feeding give it the sensation of a late-teen/young adult comedy. The highlight of the film is unquestionably Steve Buscemi, working the full-body cast with expertise. I really enjoyed the stereotypical interactions between Sandler, James, Schneider, Rock, and Spade, but the interactions often became confused when mixed in with kids for a family-movie feel. It isn't Billy Madison or 50 First Dates, but Sandler's humor shines through to create an entertaining story - just don't pick it for Family Movie Night!
Before and After - 7 stars out of 10
Before and After - 7 stars out of 10
Meryl Streep is stunning in this character-driven piece about a family who is ripped apart (and pulled together) when their son is accused of murder. The story was excellent with a script that demanded excellent actors for these emotional roles... and they were cast perfectly. Neeson delivers a good performance as he strikes the balance between anger and compassion, but is overshadowed by Streep who is in her element with this dramatic role (though one could argue that she is in her element with a comedic role, or any other role for that matter). If I was on the Academy, I would've nominated Streep for an Oscar. Then again, I'd nominate her for her performance in just about any movie. The other standout performance comes from Molina as the lawyer who may not have a heart but knows how to win a case. This may be his finest role. I think that the children could have been cast better, but it's worth watching for the main three adult actors. Though the ending isn't entirely satisfying, it's definitely the right ending. This film is very underrated and I'd recommend it to any fan of Streep or Molina.
Meryl Streep is stunning in this character-driven piece about a family who is ripped apart (and pulled together) when their son is accused of murder. The story was excellent with a script that demanded excellent actors for these emotional roles... and they were cast perfectly. Neeson delivers a good performance as he strikes the balance between anger and compassion, but is overshadowed by Streep who is in her element with this dramatic role (though one could argue that she is in her element with a comedic role, or any other role for that matter). If I was on the Academy, I would've nominated Streep for an Oscar. Then again, I'd nominate her for her performance in just about any movie. The other standout performance comes from Molina as the lawyer who may not have a heart but knows how to win a case. This may be his finest role. I think that the children could have been cast better, but it's worth watching for the main three adult actors. Though the ending isn't entirely satisfying, it's definitely the right ending. This film is very underrated and I'd recommend it to any fan of Streep or Molina.
Johnny Dangerously - 2 stars out of 10
Johnny Dangerously - 2 stars out of 10
This movie was so dumb. In order to pull off stupid humor well, you need solid acting (Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore, Mike Myers in Austin Powers, Will Ferrell in Anchorman) or else the entire thing just seems painfully stupid. The weak acting (especially Michael Keaton) made this film more annoying than humorous. Although the delivery of the dialogue wasn't very good, I didn't care much for the dialogue in the first place. From the very start, I was thinking "How can you go wrong when Weird Al writes the music for your opening credits?" Oh wait... This film tried to be a cross between Monty Python and the Marx Brothers but the final result is 90 minutes of eyerolling and an unsatisfied disposition.
This movie was so dumb. In order to pull off stupid humor well, you need solid acting (Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore, Mike Myers in Austin Powers, Will Ferrell in Anchorman) or else the entire thing just seems painfully stupid. The weak acting (especially Michael Keaton) made this film more annoying than humorous. Although the delivery of the dialogue wasn't very good, I didn't care much for the dialogue in the first place. From the very start, I was thinking "How can you go wrong when Weird Al writes the music for your opening credits?" Oh wait... This film tried to be a cross between Monty Python and the Marx Brothers but the final result is 90 minutes of eyerolling and an unsatisfied disposition.
Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others) - 10 stars out of 10
Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others) - 10 stars out of 10
This is one of the most incredible foreign films that I have ever viewed. The story, set in the German Democratic Republic in the 1980's, explores the complex difference in perspective between what is right and what is wrong. Ulrich Mühe portrays emotion with very little dialogue, relying on his eyebrows to express his thoughts as he monitors the apartment below. The script is very well written and each actor creates an emotional layer that becomes overwhelming when the film reaches its climax. Although there is not much action, the intensity of the actors drives the film and 2+ hours pass by very quickly. The question of "what is wrong," a tragic misunderstanding, and the willing sacrifice of personal happiness will leave your jaw hanging as the film comes to its conclusion.
This is one of the most incredible foreign films that I have ever viewed. The story, set in the German Democratic Republic in the 1980's, explores the complex difference in perspective between what is right and what is wrong. Ulrich Mühe portrays emotion with very little dialogue, relying on his eyebrows to express his thoughts as he monitors the apartment below. The script is very well written and each actor creates an emotional layer that becomes overwhelming when the film reaches its climax. Although there is not much action, the intensity of the actors drives the film and 2+ hours pass by very quickly. The question of "what is wrong," a tragic misunderstanding, and the willing sacrifice of personal happiness will leave your jaw hanging as the film comes to its conclusion.
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