Moon - 10 stars out of 10
"Moon" is a hidden gem within the science fiction genre. Sam Rockwell puts forth the greatest performance(s) of his career in this mindbending film. Moon starts out as a typical sci-fi movie but after the first major twist 30 minutes in, your attention will not waver for a second. This movie takes a concept that is typically received with skepticism but presents it in a way that makes it completely believable. I won't reveal what this concept is, but I will say that the only thing missing from this movie is the explanation of "how?" I feel that GERTY had to be a tribute to "2001: A Space Odyssey" and Kevin Spacey was the perfect choice for the voice. He really brought life to that computer. Overall, this is an incredible one-man show as Rockwell lights up the screen with drama and intrigue.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
9 - 3 stars out of 10
9 - 3 stars out of 10
Eh... I expected more from this movie. This movie is a short story that should not have been made into a full-length (well, sort-of) film. This is obviously an animated film intended for adults (due to the PG-13 rating and deep subject matter) but I just don't believe that there's enough in this hour and 19 minutes to satisfy an adult audience. I did not feel any attachment to any of the characters and was not really bothered when any of them died. Not even the fist-full of famous actors (like Chritopher Plummer and John C. Reilly) could help me connect with these characters. When I don't connect with a movie emotionally, it becomes a wash for me. The animation was good and the robotic creatures were pretty cool, but overall that was not enough to salvage this plot that never seemed to develop. I'm just glad that I didn't pay 8 bucks to see this film that never establishes itself beyond "expensive eye candy."
Eh... I expected more from this movie. This movie is a short story that should not have been made into a full-length (well, sort-of) film. This is obviously an animated film intended for adults (due to the PG-13 rating and deep subject matter) but I just don't believe that there's enough in this hour and 19 minutes to satisfy an adult audience. I did not feel any attachment to any of the characters and was not really bothered when any of them died. Not even the fist-full of famous actors (like Chritopher Plummer and John C. Reilly) could help me connect with these characters. When I don't connect with a movie emotionally, it becomes a wash for me. The animation was good and the robotic creatures were pretty cool, but overall that was not enough to salvage this plot that never seemed to develop. I'm just glad that I didn't pay 8 bucks to see this film that never establishes itself beyond "expensive eye candy."
Nine - 6 stars out of 10
Nine - 6 stars out of 10
"Nine" tells the story of a film director by artistically depicting his interactions with the women that impacted his life (mainly ones with whom he had affairs). Each girl sings her own song to tell her significance, giving the movie a slightly disjointed feel; however, each song is so creative and artistic that this movie is just fun to watch. I love Kate Hudson's song. You can tell that she was having SO MUCH FUN when they filmed her scene! Daniel Day-Lewis is amazing as Guido and his Italian accent is spot-on. Penelope Cruz will leave you absolutely breathless. Like, seriously. You won't be able to breathe until about 5 minutes after her song is done. But in the end, Marion Cotillard steals the show, shining brighter than the rest of this star-studded cast. Her eyes are filled with the heartbreak that her character suffers. You can tell that it's a great movie when Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, and Sophia Loren aren't even really mentioned in my review. Though it isn't the best musical I've seen, I enjoyed it and would see it again.
"Nine" tells the story of a film director by artistically depicting his interactions with the women that impacted his life (mainly ones with whom he had affairs). Each girl sings her own song to tell her significance, giving the movie a slightly disjointed feel; however, each song is so creative and artistic that this movie is just fun to watch. I love Kate Hudson's song. You can tell that she was having SO MUCH FUN when they filmed her scene! Daniel Day-Lewis is amazing as Guido and his Italian accent is spot-on. Penelope Cruz will leave you absolutely breathless. Like, seriously. You won't be able to breathe until about 5 minutes after her song is done. But in the end, Marion Cotillard steals the show, shining brighter than the rest of this star-studded cast. Her eyes are filled with the heartbreak that her character suffers. You can tell that it's a great movie when Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, and Sophia Loren aren't even really mentioned in my review. Though it isn't the best musical I've seen, I enjoyed it and would see it again.
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - 10 stars out of 10
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - 10 stars out of 10
This movie makes me so thankful for a family that loves me. Few movies in cinema history have captured the realism seen in "Precious." At first, it is difficult to believe that there are families that actually operate like this. It then becomes even more difficult when you accept the reality of this film. Her "stream of consciousness moments" are really sad as she replaces her pain and suffering with unrealistic hopes and dreams. Mo'Nique is positively evil - her interactions with her daughter are very upsetting and her Oscar was well-deserved. Honestly, you should think twice before seeing this if you are not prepared for disturbing family interactions. Gabourey Sidibe gives an extremely emotional experience, capturing the highest highs and lowest lows along the way. Paula Patton's character serves as an inspiration to all teachers out there, reminding us that it is our responsibility to believe in the kids who seem like they will never succeed. Mariah Carey's performance is also excellent and the reason that this movie is so effective is because every actor interpreted their character's emotional development with perfection. The dialogue in "Precious" is well-written and though I believe that "Up In the Air" should have won the Oscar, this was certainly a deserving script. I am confident that this movie has secured its spot amidst critically-acclaimed dramas like "Rain Man" and "Girl, Interrupted."
This movie makes me so thankful for a family that loves me. Few movies in cinema history have captured the realism seen in "Precious." At first, it is difficult to believe that there are families that actually operate like this. It then becomes even more difficult when you accept the reality of this film. Her "stream of consciousness moments" are really sad as she replaces her pain and suffering with unrealistic hopes and dreams. Mo'Nique is positively evil - her interactions with her daughter are very upsetting and her Oscar was well-deserved. Honestly, you should think twice before seeing this if you are not prepared for disturbing family interactions. Gabourey Sidibe gives an extremely emotional experience, capturing the highest highs and lowest lows along the way. Paula Patton's character serves as an inspiration to all teachers out there, reminding us that it is our responsibility to believe in the kids who seem like they will never succeed. Mariah Carey's performance is also excellent and the reason that this movie is so effective is because every actor interpreted their character's emotional development with perfection. The dialogue in "Precious" is well-written and though I believe that "Up In the Air" should have won the Oscar, this was certainly a deserving script. I am confident that this movie has secured its spot amidst critically-acclaimed dramas like "Rain Man" and "Girl, Interrupted."
Runaway Jury - 10 stars out of 10
Runaway Jury - 10 stars out of 10
"Runaway Jury" is just a fantastic film. The story is intriguing and relevant, the acting is top notch, there action sequences offer a ton of intensity while the courtroom scenes foster the same intensity, and the resolution of the story is perfection. I give the writers a ton of credit for conceptualizing this storyline about a Jury For Sale, but throwing in a twist that elevates this story to another level when you least expect it. Gary Fleder did a great job of pacing the release of particular information throughout the movie so that this twist could achieve its optimum potential. The acting is simply stunning as Gene Hackman continues his legacy as one of the most sinister villains in film. He is incredibly B.A. in this film. John Cusack (a.k.a. "The Man") gives one of his best performances as the conniving, manipulative Nick Easter. Rachel Weisz is as spunky as ever, and Dustin Hoffman delivers his line with such passion, as if he firmly believes every word that his character says in this script. They even pay homage to Bruce McGill by putting him into another "judge role!" There are movies and then there are MOVIES!!!!, and this is certainly the latter as this complicated web of truth and lies unravels from start to finish.
"Runaway Jury" is just a fantastic film. The story is intriguing and relevant, the acting is top notch, there action sequences offer a ton of intensity while the courtroom scenes foster the same intensity, and the resolution of the story is perfection. I give the writers a ton of credit for conceptualizing this storyline about a Jury For Sale, but throwing in a twist that elevates this story to another level when you least expect it. Gary Fleder did a great job of pacing the release of particular information throughout the movie so that this twist could achieve its optimum potential. The acting is simply stunning as Gene Hackman continues his legacy as one of the most sinister villains in film. He is incredibly B.A. in this film. John Cusack (a.k.a. "The Man") gives one of his best performances as the conniving, manipulative Nick Easter. Rachel Weisz is as spunky as ever, and Dustin Hoffman delivers his line with such passion, as if he firmly believes every word that his character says in this script. They even pay homage to Bruce McGill by putting him into another "judge role!" There are movies and then there are MOVIES!!!!, and this is certainly the latter as this complicated web of truth and lies unravels from start to finish.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Glory - 6 stars out of 10
Glory - 6 stars out of 10
"Glory" tells a great Civil War story but falls short of being a *great* film because of it's lead actor. Matthew Broderick is entertaining in comic roles but he never should have been given the lead in a war movie. His character never comes to life and his accent is a constant distraction as it fades in and out throughout the entire film. Despite great performances by Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher, and Denzel Washington (though I don't believe his was Oscar-worthy), Broderick just kept me from really getting into this film. You'll probably feel that Broderick should stick to being Ferris Bueller, but it is worth watching this movie just to see Denzel Washington's tear - you'll understand when you see it.
"Glory" tells a great Civil War story but falls short of being a *great* film because of it's lead actor. Matthew Broderick is entertaining in comic roles but he never should have been given the lead in a war movie. His character never comes to life and his accent is a constant distraction as it fades in and out throughout the entire film. Despite great performances by Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher, and Denzel Washington (though I don't believe his was Oscar-worthy), Broderick just kept me from really getting into this film. You'll probably feel that Broderick should stick to being Ferris Bueller, but it is worth watching this movie just to see Denzel Washington's tear - you'll understand when you see it.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Robin Hood: Men In Tights - 8 stars out of 10
Robin Hood: Men In Tights - 8 stars out of 10
One of the best parodies of all time! Mel Brooks finds the perfect balance of Robin Hood storyline, pop culture references, stereotypes, and slapstick comedy in "Men in Tights." With it's perfect cast, this film provides you with many memorable characters to keep you laughing from start to finish, complete with outstanding cameos by Patrick Stewart and Dom DeLuise. If you enjoy Mel Brooks or movie parodies, this movie is a must-see.
One of the best parodies of all time! Mel Brooks finds the perfect balance of Robin Hood storyline, pop culture references, stereotypes, and slapstick comedy in "Men in Tights." With it's perfect cast, this film provides you with many memorable characters to keep you laughing from start to finish, complete with outstanding cameos by Patrick Stewart and Dom DeLuise. If you enjoy Mel Brooks or movie parodies, this movie is a must-see.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Children of the Corn - 4 stars out of 10
Children of the Corn - 4 stars out of 10
"Children of the Corn" isn't scary as much as it is one of the weirdest movies that I have ever seen. The cinematography is great as they can create the brutal murders in your mind without actually showing it on-screen. A lot of this film is average, such as the acting and the special effect, but Stephen King's unique and perplexing story is this film's greatest draw. Although the whole religious side of it made me cringe, I'm amazed at how believable it was that this kids took over their town and couldn't stop wondering what the secret was behind it! I also really appreciated the set with its deserted town with corn mysteriously all over the place. More than any imagery, the music absolutely sets the freaky tone from the very start. It certainly isn't the best scary movie ever, but I will certainly think twice before venturing into a cornfield ever again.
"Children of the Corn" isn't scary as much as it is one of the weirdest movies that I have ever seen. The cinematography is great as they can create the brutal murders in your mind without actually showing it on-screen. A lot of this film is average, such as the acting and the special effect, but Stephen King's unique and perplexing story is this film's greatest draw. Although the whole religious side of it made me cringe, I'm amazed at how believable it was that this kids took over their town and couldn't stop wondering what the secret was behind it! I also really appreciated the set with its deserted town with corn mysteriously all over the place. More than any imagery, the music absolutely sets the freaky tone from the very start. It certainly isn't the best scary movie ever, but I will certainly think twice before venturing into a cornfield ever again.
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