The Fan - 7 stars out of 10
This movie is quite disturbing as an obsessed fan turns into a stalker. Robert DeNiro's character is one of the scariest types out there (so disgruntled that he abandons all judgement and is capable of anything) and he delivers an incredible performance in this role. By the end of the movie, you will be legitimately frightened of this mad man. Wesley Snipes delivers a strong, emotional role as he becomes the victim for no rational reason. "The Fan" isn't on par with classic 90's thrillers like The Fugitive and Silence of the Lambs but a decent story, a few great twists, and good acting make it an enjoyable movie.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Fantastic Mr. Fox - 10 stars out of 10
Fantastic Mr. Fox - 10 stars out of 10
This movie could have been 5 hours long and I would've watched every minute because I love the artistry of this animation so much. It is very refreshing to find a clean animated movie designed for adults. Though kids will enjoy the film, Wes Anderson's brand of humor is geared primarily to an adult audience The voice acting of George Clooney, Meryl Streep, and Jason Schwartzman was perfectly cast in their respective roles. The story is fun and entertaining, leaving you with an overall happy and euphoric feeling in the end. Without question, Fantastic Mr. Fox is now my favorite stop-motion film.
This movie could have been 5 hours long and I would've watched every minute because I love the artistry of this animation so much. It is very refreshing to find a clean animated movie designed for adults. Though kids will enjoy the film, Wes Anderson's brand of humor is geared primarily to an adult audience The voice acting of George Clooney, Meryl Streep, and Jason Schwartzman was perfectly cast in their respective roles. The story is fun and entertaining, leaving you with an overall happy and euphoric feeling in the end. Without question, Fantastic Mr. Fox is now my favorite stop-motion film.
Friday, November 11, 2011
VeggieTales: It's a Meaningful Life - 3 stars out of 10
VeggieTales: It's a Meaningful Life - 3 stars out of 10
While a movie about vegetables is limited in its potential to become a cinematic masterpiece, "It's a Meaningful Life" provides a good message while entertaining fans of "It's a Wonderful Life" with its many parallels to the original and clever ways of getting around content that children would not understand (like a toy train factory instead of a building and loan). I typically don't view VeggieTales as I typically view movies (intently analyzing the character development and acting) since these are just fun videos to watch with my nieces and nephews; however, when I noticed this particular one and it's parallel to the traditional Christmas film, I decided that I should watch it. It's 3-star rating is not a reflection of its entertainment value, but for the simple reason that I cannot rate computer-animated vegetables on the same level as a film starring Morgan Freeman or Meryl Streep. Besides, they didn't have any Silly Songs with Larry.
While a movie about vegetables is limited in its potential to become a cinematic masterpiece, "It's a Meaningful Life" provides a good message while entertaining fans of "It's a Wonderful Life" with its many parallels to the original and clever ways of getting around content that children would not understand (like a toy train factory instead of a building and loan). I typically don't view VeggieTales as I typically view movies (intently analyzing the character development and acting) since these are just fun videos to watch with my nieces and nephews; however, when I noticed this particular one and it's parallel to the traditional Christmas film, I decided that I should watch it. It's 3-star rating is not a reflection of its entertainment value, but for the simple reason that I cannot rate computer-animated vegetables on the same level as a film starring Morgan Freeman or Meryl Streep. Besides, they didn't have any Silly Songs with Larry.
Invictus - 10 stars out of 10
Invictus - 10 stars out of 10
Clint Eastwood proves himself as a genius director once again! I thought that this movie was going to be about rugby but instead, rugby is the medium through which this story of Nelson Mandela's unification of South Africa is told. Morgan Freeman's portrayal of Mandela is pure movie magic... even if you have no interest in rugby, Freeman is reason enough to see "Invictus." Matt Damon does an incredible job of supporting Freeman's performance. Typically in a movie with an extended sports scene (as we see at the end of Invictus) they will include the voiceover of the tv commentators to explain what is happening; however, Invictus leaves it to the raw sports footage to energize the movie's finale and those voiceovers were not missed. I've lost count of the number of football, baseball, hockey, and basketball movies that have flooded the theaters over the years - Invictus' rugby storyline is a fresh breath.
Clint Eastwood proves himself as a genius director once again! I thought that this movie was going to be about rugby but instead, rugby is the medium through which this story of Nelson Mandela's unification of South Africa is told. Morgan Freeman's portrayal of Mandela is pure movie magic... even if you have no interest in rugby, Freeman is reason enough to see "Invictus." Matt Damon does an incredible job of supporting Freeman's performance. Typically in a movie with an extended sports scene (as we see at the end of Invictus) they will include the voiceover of the tv commentators to explain what is happening; however, Invictus leaves it to the raw sports footage to energize the movie's finale and those voiceovers were not missed. I've lost count of the number of football, baseball, hockey, and basketball movies that have flooded the theaters over the years - Invictus' rugby storyline is a fresh breath.
Around the World in 80 Days (1956) - 5 stars out of 10
Around the World in 80 Days (1956) - 5 stars out of 10
The Academy got it right: decent acting (not worthy of an Oscar), but with stunning cinematography, a beautiful soundtrack, creating an enjoyable film with a stupendous twist! The many exotic locations and exploration of different cultures are very stereotypical but create a great contrast throughout the entire movie. Today, I became easily bored with this film, not only because it is 140 minutes long, but because of this little invention called "The Internet." In the 1950's, it must have been thrilling to see all of these locations but with Google Image Search, we have become so accustomed to these images that they have lost a bit of their luster. The different locations are supported by the musical score, impressively incorporating all of this cultural music into a soundtrack that does not feel choppy. Though it isn't the greatest epic adventure ever filmed, "Around the World" is worth watching.
The Academy got it right: decent acting (not worthy of an Oscar), but with stunning cinematography, a beautiful soundtrack, creating an enjoyable film with a stupendous twist! The many exotic locations and exploration of different cultures are very stereotypical but create a great contrast throughout the entire movie. Today, I became easily bored with this film, not only because it is 140 minutes long, but because of this little invention called "The Internet." In the 1950's, it must have been thrilling to see all of these locations but with Google Image Search, we have become so accustomed to these images that they have lost a bit of their luster. The different locations are supported by the musical score, impressively incorporating all of this cultural music into a soundtrack that does not feel choppy. Though it isn't the greatest epic adventure ever filmed, "Around the World" is worth watching.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
North Face (Nordwand) - 7 stars out of 10
North Face (Nordwand) - 7 stars out of 10
"Nordwand" isn't a movie that you should see because of its acting or its tragic story (loosely based on historical events), but because of its raw, realistic portrayal of freezing to death. If you are squeamish, this is not the movie for you. As it exposes the power of nature along with the horrors of mountain climbing in an avalanche, this film becomes difficult to watch. Frozen limbs, the crack of bones breaking, and worst of all, gruesomely frostbitten hands, will make your entire body cringe. I would feel like I am delivering a spoiler but the entire second half of the film focuses on the attempts of these climbers to reach safety. Though the acting often takes a backseat to the stunning cinematography and uncomfortable imagery, Benno Furmann steals the spotlight with the desperation and agony in his acting. I would think twice before seeing this film because, unlike over-the-top gore films like "Frozen," these two hours of realism are truly disturbing.
"Nordwand" isn't a movie that you should see because of its acting or its tragic story (loosely based on historical events), but because of its raw, realistic portrayal of freezing to death. If you are squeamish, this is not the movie for you. As it exposes the power of nature along with the horrors of mountain climbing in an avalanche, this film becomes difficult to watch. Frozen limbs, the crack of bones breaking, and worst of all, gruesomely frostbitten hands, will make your entire body cringe. I would feel like I am delivering a spoiler but the entire second half of the film focuses on the attempts of these climbers to reach safety. Though the acting often takes a backseat to the stunning cinematography and uncomfortable imagery, Benno Furmann steals the spotlight with the desperation and agony in his acting. I would think twice before seeing this film because, unlike over-the-top gore films like "Frozen," these two hours of realism are truly disturbing.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
An Education - 8 stars out of 10
An Education - 8 stars out of 10
With that left dimple, Carey Mulligan will immediately capture your heart. She has definitely made a name for herself through this film. So much about the plot was so wrong. Is it socially acceptable in the UK for an older man to date a 16-year-old girl? My anger and frustration toward this concept is probably a testament to the realism of this movie. Peter Sarsgaard puts forth an impressive performance as he manipulates Jenny's parents into allowing them to spend time together. I always enjoy Alfred Molina and, though his performance cannot compare to his roles in Chocolat and Spiderman 2, he creates another memorable character. But truly, the highlight of this movie is the Oscar-nominee Mulligan as she transforms from a teenager into a woman over the course of 90 minutes.
With that left dimple, Carey Mulligan will immediately capture your heart. She has definitely made a name for herself through this film. So much about the plot was so wrong. Is it socially acceptable in the UK for an older man to date a 16-year-old girl? My anger and frustration toward this concept is probably a testament to the realism of this movie. Peter Sarsgaard puts forth an impressive performance as he manipulates Jenny's parents into allowing them to spend time together. I always enjoy Alfred Molina and, though his performance cannot compare to his roles in Chocolat and Spiderman 2, he creates another memorable character. But truly, the highlight of this movie is the Oscar-nominee Mulligan as she transforms from a teenager into a woman over the course of 90 minutes.
Unforgiven - 6 stars out of 10
Unforgiven - 6 stars out of 10
"Unforgiven" was good but I approached it with a lot of skepticism, knowing that it beat "A Few Good Men" for the best picture Academy Award. Unfortunately, its inability to match the entertainment value and storytelling of A Few Good Men left me disappointed. The acting in this film is high quality (how can you go wrong with Eastwood, Freeman, and Hackman in one film) but I found the story to be slow and uneventful. I love Gene Hackman and he is one of my favorite villains, but this definitely was not his best role and I don't understand how he beat Jack Nicholson for the best supporting actor Oscar. Eastwood is one of my favorite directors but this can't compare to Mystic River and Million Dollar Baby.
"Unforgiven" was good but I approached it with a lot of skepticism, knowing that it beat "A Few Good Men" for the best picture Academy Award. Unfortunately, its inability to match the entertainment value and storytelling of A Few Good Men left me disappointed. The acting in this film is high quality (how can you go wrong with Eastwood, Freeman, and Hackman in one film) but I found the story to be slow and uneventful. I love Gene Hackman and he is one of my favorite villains, but this definitely was not his best role and I don't understand how he beat Jack Nicholson for the best supporting actor Oscar. Eastwood is one of my favorite directors but this can't compare to Mystic River and Million Dollar Baby.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Million Dollar Baby - 10 stars out of 10
Million Dollar Baby - 10 stars out of 10
This is one of the best movies that I have ever seen. Period. Clint Eastwood creates movie magic in both his acting and his directing. This story of hope and tragedy will have you smiling with pride one moment and angry beyond words the next. Every character introduced into this story vividly comes to life, particularly Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman's characters. Perhaps the most effective (and upsetting) use of characters to create emotion appears in the form of Frankie's family. They have very minimal screen time but, as they use her for her money and treat her worse than an animal, their very presence will have you shaking with anger as they are more inconsiderate and selfish than any character I have seen on the screen. From it's feel-good moments to it's tear-jerking realities, Million Dollar Baby delivers from start to finish in one of our generation's finest cinematic acheivements.
This is one of the best movies that I have ever seen. Period. Clint Eastwood creates movie magic in both his acting and his directing. This story of hope and tragedy will have you smiling with pride one moment and angry beyond words the next. Every character introduced into this story vividly comes to life, particularly Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman's characters. Perhaps the most effective (and upsetting) use of characters to create emotion appears in the form of Frankie's family. They have very minimal screen time but, as they use her for her money and treat her worse than an animal, their very presence will have you shaking with anger as they are more inconsiderate and selfish than any character I have seen on the screen. From it's feel-good moments to it's tear-jerking realities, Million Dollar Baby delivers from start to finish in one of our generation's finest cinematic acheivements.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Eastern Promises - 8 stars out of 10
Eastern Promises - 8 stars out of 10
Viggo is SICK!!!! Combine his finest acting performance with a fascinating story about the Russian mob and you have an adrenaline-pumping display of brutal violence that will force you to look away. Few movies have captured the essence of intimidation from the mob or achieved the intensity of this movie's shower knife scene. Vincent Cassel was the highlight of this movie for me. In American movies he often plays the thug, but I never expected the emotion and disregard for humanity that he successfully displays as Kirill. With this movie you will find great acting (including Naomi Watts and Armin Mueller-Stahl) and an amazing twist, but it is not for the squeamish or the faint of heart.
Viggo is SICK!!!! Combine his finest acting performance with a fascinating story about the Russian mob and you have an adrenaline-pumping display of brutal violence that will force you to look away. Few movies have captured the essence of intimidation from the mob or achieved the intensity of this movie's shower knife scene. Vincent Cassel was the highlight of this movie for me. In American movies he often plays the thug, but I never expected the emotion and disregard for humanity that he successfully displays as Kirill. With this movie you will find great acting (including Naomi Watts and Armin Mueller-Stahl) and an amazing twist, but it is not for the squeamish or the faint of heart.
V for Vendetta - 8 stars out of 10
V for Vendetta - 8 stars out of 10
"Remember, remember the 5th of November..." The first time that I saw "V", I was expecting a superhero movie and was left incredibly disappointed. After 5 years, I decided to give this movie another chance - this time anticipating a futuristic political drama - and wish that I could take back every negative comment that I have made. This movie goes far beyond blood and fighting with strong political themes and a dark look at the future. Natalie Portman delivers pure emotion in (what I believe to be) her greatest performance outside of Black Swan. The anguished looks that appear on her face throughout the movie will just break your heart. My favorite aspect of this movie is the amount of emotion that Hugo Weaving masterfully brings to his character from behind his mask. His voice is so expressive that we never need to see his face to feel his intensity and emotion. Although there are fewer action sequences than you might expect, each one is thrilling and worth waiting for. See this movie, just know what you're getting into first.
"Remember, remember the 5th of November..." The first time that I saw "V", I was expecting a superhero movie and was left incredibly disappointed. After 5 years, I decided to give this movie another chance - this time anticipating a futuristic political drama - and wish that I could take back every negative comment that I have made. This movie goes far beyond blood and fighting with strong political themes and a dark look at the future. Natalie Portman delivers pure emotion in (what I believe to be) her greatest performance outside of Black Swan. The anguished looks that appear on her face throughout the movie will just break your heart. My favorite aspect of this movie is the amount of emotion that Hugo Weaving masterfully brings to his character from behind his mask. His voice is so expressive that we never need to see his face to feel his intensity and emotion. Although there are fewer action sequences than you might expect, each one is thrilling and worth waiting for. See this movie, just know what you're getting into first.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Jason X - 1 star out of 10
Jason X - 1 star out of 10
"This sucks on so many levels!" These words of warning are contained in the very script of "Jason X," one of the worst horror movies ever made. The horribly written characters of this film basically translate into The Breakfast Club in space with Jason. Yes, that's right: in space. And did I mention that it is 450 years in the future? Let me save you some time - Jason is on a spaceship with a bunch of people from the future and he kills all of them. I really wish that I was making this up. If the horrible concept wasn't enough, this film is filled with absurd one-liners that place the film in limbo somewhere between comedy and slasher film. When you use the line "He's screwed" to describe a character who was killed by falling onto a giant drill, you know that the writers are just making fun of the film. Did I mention that it takes place in space? The only redeeming quality (and I use that term very loosely) is the casting of Lexa Doig, who is VERY nice to look at. But what is the point when you keep on shooting something at close range and he just gets back up and kills you? If there is no realistic (or even unrealistic) way to kill the villain, the plot disappears and you are left with 90 minutes of a guy in a hockey mask killing a bunch of people and then some closing credits. It isn't even scary because the idea of Jason running around on a spaceship is so ludicrous. Oh yeah, by the way, they are in space. "Jason X" is laughable and truly a testament to the fact that the writers have given up on this film franchise and decided that the only way to make any more money off of it is by turning it into a joke. It certainly has fallen a long way since the 80's. And just to warn you, this movie takes place in outer space.
"This sucks on so many levels!" These words of warning are contained in the very script of "Jason X," one of the worst horror movies ever made. The horribly written characters of this film basically translate into The Breakfast Club in space with Jason. Yes, that's right: in space. And did I mention that it is 450 years in the future? Let me save you some time - Jason is on a spaceship with a bunch of people from the future and he kills all of them. I really wish that I was making this up. If the horrible concept wasn't enough, this film is filled with absurd one-liners that place the film in limbo somewhere between comedy and slasher film. When you use the line "He's screwed" to describe a character who was killed by falling onto a giant drill, you know that the writers are just making fun of the film. Did I mention that it takes place in space? The only redeeming quality (and I use that term very loosely) is the casting of Lexa Doig, who is VERY nice to look at. But what is the point when you keep on shooting something at close range and he just gets back up and kills you? If there is no realistic (or even unrealistic) way to kill the villain, the plot disappears and you are left with 90 minutes of a guy in a hockey mask killing a bunch of people and then some closing credits. It isn't even scary because the idea of Jason running around on a spaceship is so ludicrous. Oh yeah, by the way, they are in space. "Jason X" is laughable and truly a testament to the fact that the writers have given up on this film franchise and decided that the only way to make any more money off of it is by turning it into a joke. It certainly has fallen a long way since the 80's. And just to warn you, this movie takes place in outer space.
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