Extreme Measures - 5 stars out of 10
"Extreme Measures" was interesting but far from what I expected. The characteristic that works in this film's favor is its mystery. I cannot imagine any person watching the first sequence without really wanting to know what is wrong with the two guys. The film builds to its mid-point where the script reveals a well-designed reason for the paralysis/unintelligence. Unfortunately, this film is rather flat outside of its mystery. Gene Hackman's acting is always top notch (and this performance is no exception), but Hugh Grant does not do well in this dramatic role. I couldn't have cared less about Sarah Jessica Parker's character and even Bill Nunn wasn't in his best form (and I love him in EVERYTHING!) In addition to better acting, this film could have used a healthy dose of realism. I found the entire thing to be so farfetched that I wished that they would've resolved the mystery, explained the motivations for these experiments, and avoided ransacked apartments and underground slums. "Extreme Measures" is worth a watch if there isn't anything better on, but there are many dramas and thrillers that need to appear on your list before this one.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
In Time - 6 stars out of 10
In Time - 6 stars out of 10
What starts off as a unique sci-fi concept turns into an interesting futuristic Robin Hood-type story. The concept of "In Time" is really cool but after a while, the script seems to go out of its way to emphasize that money is the currency. There has to come a point where the script moves in a different direction so that the film is plot-driven instead of concept-driven. That being said, I did enjoy this film and thought that it presented the most creative concept since "Inception." I think that Justin Timberlake surprised a lot of people in this lead role, though he was so good in "The Social Network" that this role was a piece of cake. He wasn't great, but was certainly better than adequate. I don't really know how to say this next thing in a not-mean way, but I've always thought that Amanda Seyfried was a little... weird-looking... HOWEVER she is looking mighty fine in this film! I thought it was her at first but had to check on it, simply because she didn't look weird. The acting in this film isn't earth-shattering but works for an action sci-fi movie. I just question whether they casted based on talent or on attracting movie-goers with eye candy. There are better dystopian films out there but, in spite of its script, this one provides some excellent action sequences amidst an awesome concept.
What starts off as a unique sci-fi concept turns into an interesting futuristic Robin Hood-type story. The concept of "In Time" is really cool but after a while, the script seems to go out of its way to emphasize that money is the currency. There has to come a point where the script moves in a different direction so that the film is plot-driven instead of concept-driven. That being said, I did enjoy this film and thought that it presented the most creative concept since "Inception." I think that Justin Timberlake surprised a lot of people in this lead role, though he was so good in "The Social Network" that this role was a piece of cake. He wasn't great, but was certainly better than adequate. I don't really know how to say this next thing in a not-mean way, but I've always thought that Amanda Seyfried was a little... weird-looking... HOWEVER she is looking mighty fine in this film! I thought it was her at first but had to check on it, simply because she didn't look weird. The acting in this film isn't earth-shattering but works for an action sci-fi movie. I just question whether they casted based on talent or on attracting movie-goers with eye candy. There are better dystopian films out there but, in spite of its script, this one provides some excellent action sequences amidst an awesome concept.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
My Left Foot - 7 stars out of 10
My Left Foot - 7 stars out of 10
It is difficult to even comprehend how Daniel Day-Lewis was able to take on the role of Christy Brown in "My Left Foot." This true story tells the journey of a cerebral palsy victim who, despite being mute and severely handicapped as a child, proves the world wrong by becoming an artist and a writer... without the use of his hands. Subtlety is thrown out the window as Day-Lewis transforms himself into an unrecognizable state. The stuttering voice alone is amazing, and when paired with the mannerisms and jerky movements of Christy Brown, it is one of those performances that you will never forget. He has an excellent supporting cast, as evidenced by Brenda Fricker's Oscar and by the emotions that you will feel (positive and negative) as the characters interact with each other. I am so glad that Day-Lewis was recognized for his performance with an Oscar while "Driving Miss Daisy" won the Oscar for Best Picture (since overall, it's a better film). I never understood how Morgan Freeman didn't win with his performance... until now. I think that the script is really cool, being adapted from Brown's autobiography. As you watch, you know that you are getting the true story. Even during the most uncomfortable scenes, like the terrible restaurant scene. If you want a slice of real life, you will definitely find it in "My Left Foot" as Daniel Day-Lewis puts on one of the most jaw-dropping performances in cinema.
It is difficult to even comprehend how Daniel Day-Lewis was able to take on the role of Christy Brown in "My Left Foot." This true story tells the journey of a cerebral palsy victim who, despite being mute and severely handicapped as a child, proves the world wrong by becoming an artist and a writer... without the use of his hands. Subtlety is thrown out the window as Day-Lewis transforms himself into an unrecognizable state. The stuttering voice alone is amazing, and when paired with the mannerisms and jerky movements of Christy Brown, it is one of those performances that you will never forget. He has an excellent supporting cast, as evidenced by Brenda Fricker's Oscar and by the emotions that you will feel (positive and negative) as the characters interact with each other. I am so glad that Day-Lewis was recognized for his performance with an Oscar while "Driving Miss Daisy" won the Oscar for Best Picture (since overall, it's a better film). I never understood how Morgan Freeman didn't win with his performance... until now. I think that the script is really cool, being adapted from Brown's autobiography. As you watch, you know that you are getting the true story. Even during the most uncomfortable scenes, like the terrible restaurant scene. If you want a slice of real life, you will definitely find it in "My Left Foot" as Daniel Day-Lewis puts on one of the most jaw-dropping performances in cinema.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
How To Marry A Millionaire - 7 stars out of 10
How To Marry A Millionaire - 7 stars out of 10
It is surprising how much entertainment this cheesy story provides. It is even more surprising that Marilyn Monroe could be completely overshadowed in one of her films! "How To Marry A Millionaire" has three stars, but this film is all about Betty Grable. Don't get me wrong, Monroe is very funny in her role but it's no comparison to the cuteness and laughs provided by Grable. The best aspect of this film is the quirks that make each leading lady unique - Grable's oblivious nature, Monroe's terrible eyesight (and resulting relationship with a man with an eye patch), and Lauren Bacall's spunk. The film just has so much chemistry because each girl's interactions with this designated man are different. I really like the script. The premise seems cheesy but actually makes a strong statement about how we judge people based on the wealth that we believe them to have. It isn't my favorite comedy from the 50's but I'd definitely watch it again, even if just for Betty Grable!
It is surprising how much entertainment this cheesy story provides. It is even more surprising that Marilyn Monroe could be completely overshadowed in one of her films! "How To Marry A Millionaire" has three stars, but this film is all about Betty Grable. Don't get me wrong, Monroe is very funny in her role but it's no comparison to the cuteness and laughs provided by Grable. The best aspect of this film is the quirks that make each leading lady unique - Grable's oblivious nature, Monroe's terrible eyesight (and resulting relationship with a man with an eye patch), and Lauren Bacall's spunk. The film just has so much chemistry because each girl's interactions with this designated man are different. I really like the script. The premise seems cheesy but actually makes a strong statement about how we judge people based on the wealth that we believe them to have. It isn't my favorite comedy from the 50's but I'd definitely watch it again, even if just for Betty Grable!
My Week with Marilyn - 8 stars out of 10
My Week with Marilyn - 8 stars out of 10
"My Week with Marilyn" wasn't a life-changing movie, but Michelle Williams is just so unbelievably good that it is a must-see. She is absolutely irresistible as Marilyn Monroe and beautifully portrays all of the insecurities that Monroe dealt with outside of the public eye. You literally can't look away because Williams is so gorgeous that you'll continually forget that she isn't actually Monroe. She completely deserved her Oscar nomination and the simple story serves as a vehicle for her to show off her Marilyn-side. True stories are the best and this brief spark of romance is a great way to develop the characters of Monroe and Colin Clark. The film starts off perfectly with a jazzy, whimsical score reminiscent of John Williams' soundtrack to "Catch Me If You Can." Leave it to John Williams to appear in movie reviews that don't even involve him! I loved some of the small character roles that add a little flavor to the story without receiving high praise. The top of the list was Dame Judi Dench, who increases ticket sales just by having her name in the credits, and a spunky performance by Emma Watson who is on her way to becoming one of Hollywood's brightest stars. I was disappointed with Kenneth Branagh's performance, not because it was inadequate, but because his Oscar nomination gave me such high expectations. "My Week with Marilyn" isn't just a movie - it's a slice of history and a great opportunity to get to know the insecure side of one of Hollywood's biggest legends.
"My Week with Marilyn" wasn't a life-changing movie, but Michelle Williams is just so unbelievably good that it is a must-see. She is absolutely irresistible as Marilyn Monroe and beautifully portrays all of the insecurities that Monroe dealt with outside of the public eye. You literally can't look away because Williams is so gorgeous that you'll continually forget that she isn't actually Monroe. She completely deserved her Oscar nomination and the simple story serves as a vehicle for her to show off her Marilyn-side. True stories are the best and this brief spark of romance is a great way to develop the characters of Monroe and Colin Clark. The film starts off perfectly with a jazzy, whimsical score reminiscent of John Williams' soundtrack to "Catch Me If You Can." Leave it to John Williams to appear in movie reviews that don't even involve him! I loved some of the small character roles that add a little flavor to the story without receiving high praise. The top of the list was Dame Judi Dench, who increases ticket sales just by having her name in the credits, and a spunky performance by Emma Watson who is on her way to becoming one of Hollywood's brightest stars. I was disappointed with Kenneth Branagh's performance, not because it was inadequate, but because his Oscar nomination gave me such high expectations. "My Week with Marilyn" isn't just a movie - it's a slice of history and a great opportunity to get to know the insecure side of one of Hollywood's biggest legends.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
(500) Days of Summer - 10 stars out of 10
(500) Days of Summer - 10 stars out of 10
"(500) Days of Summer" is a beautifully crafted masterpiece about life, love, and hope. I absolutely fell in love with the artistry of this film. The way that it skipped back and forth through time was incredible. I loved the "artistic French film" scenes and especially the "morning after in-love sequence" - if you have ever felt that way after a first date, this portrayal will perfectly capture that feeling. Finally, the split screen between expectation and reality is simply one of the greatest movie moments I've ever experienced. It nears visual perfection. I wanted to know so badly how this movie would end... but am so glad that I was surprised. (500) Days does a wonderful job of telling a love story in an artistic way but without turning it into a chick flick.
"(500) Days of Summer" is a beautifully crafted masterpiece about life, love, and hope. I absolutely fell in love with the artistry of this film. The way that it skipped back and forth through time was incredible. I loved the "artistic French film" scenes and especially the "morning after in-love sequence" - if you have ever felt that way after a first date, this portrayal will perfectly capture that feeling. Finally, the split screen between expectation and reality is simply one of the greatest movie moments I've ever experienced. It nears visual perfection. I wanted to know so badly how this movie would end... but am so glad that I was surprised. (500) Days does a wonderful job of telling a love story in an artistic way but without turning it into a chick flick.
The Towering Inferno - 4 stars out of 10
The Towering Inferno - 4 stars out of 10
Maybe I'm just not that impressed with the disaster film genre from the 70's, but "The Towering Inferno" failed to thrill me. In concept, it was really great. But with modern firefighting films like "Ladder 49," this film lacks the realism and intensity that I was hoping for. Paul Newman and Steve McQueen don't deliver their best performances but they're good. Same with Faye Dunaway and Fred Astaire. And the script has some nice lines but not enough to satisfy a 165 minute runtime. There are a lot of characters who receive a decent dose of development, but never to the extent that we really care whether they survive or die. Do you see what I'm getting at? It isn't bad, but it isn't good. It's just "eh." The best part of this film is the final resolution for the fire but like most disaster films, it isn't really worth sitting through the plot since most of us just want to see explosions and flames. This film won 3 Oscars and rightfully received recognition for its cinematography... but its name is undeserving of even being mentioned in the same sentence as "Godfather Part II" regarding the Best Picture nominees for 1975.
Maybe I'm just not that impressed with the disaster film genre from the 70's, but "The Towering Inferno" failed to thrill me. In concept, it was really great. But with modern firefighting films like "Ladder 49," this film lacks the realism and intensity that I was hoping for. Paul Newman and Steve McQueen don't deliver their best performances but they're good. Same with Faye Dunaway and Fred Astaire. And the script has some nice lines but not enough to satisfy a 165 minute runtime. There are a lot of characters who receive a decent dose of development, but never to the extent that we really care whether they survive or die. Do you see what I'm getting at? It isn't bad, but it isn't good. It's just "eh." The best part of this film is the final resolution for the fire but like most disaster films, it isn't really worth sitting through the plot since most of us just want to see explosions and flames. This film won 3 Oscars and rightfully received recognition for its cinematography... but its name is undeserving of even being mentioned in the same sentence as "Godfather Part II" regarding the Best Picture nominees for 1975.
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