Fame (2009) - 4 stars out of 10
I expected a musical but instead, I found a teen drama with a few songs randomly thrown in and a big number at the end to pull the story together. This film seemed very disjointed as it developed each character independently of the other characters. Then again, I suppose that's what happens when you try to squeeze 4 of the most complex developmental years of a person's life into 110 minutes. This story would've worked better if these events took place in just their junior and senior years and probably would've had a better flow. Kay Panabaker steals the show as we see her transformation from innocent freshman to mature senior - this movie has brought attention to her high level of talent and will hopefully open a lot of doors for her. I also enjoyed the emotion in every note of Naturi Naughton's singing. I feel that "Fame" gives an inaccurate view of what really happens in a performing arts school. I dislike the portrayal that classical music is boring and students need to participate in rap and hip hop to enjoy the arts. Overall, I enjoyed the characters and the couple of musical numbers, with the final sequence being the best part. Just don't expect a typical musical (or a musical at all) when you see it.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Mirror Mirror - 4 stars out of 10
Mirror Mirror - 4 stars out of 10
"Mirror Mirror" is entertaining in spite of Julia Roberts. This adaptation of Snow White has its high and low points but makes for a good family film. Even though their names have been dropped from the title, the seven dwarves are by far the highlight of this film. They certainly aren't HappyGrumpySleepyDopeySneezyBashfulDoc, but many of the dwarves receive deeper character development than mere personality traits. The stand-outs are Mark Povinelli as Half-Pint (the dwarf with the constant crush on Snow White) and Danny Woodburn (from Seinfeld) as Grimm, the leader of the bandits. Every moment that these dwarves were on screen, it felt charming and funny. I cannot say the same for Julia Roberts. From her opening voice-over, she came off as annoying to me (and I'm generally a fan of hers). She didn't seem evil - just mean. It just didn't seem like she was acting; unfortunately, her typical character does not fit well into a fantasy film. Maybe I had too high of an expectation because she was on the movie poster, but I don't think that is an unfair expectation of an Oscar winner. Unlike Julia who did not fit into the plot, Lily Collins made a perfect Snow White, kind and innocent but able to handle a sword. Though the acting was sometimes a bit over-the-top, I think that it was intentional as she played this fantasy princess. Her chemistry was good with Armie Hammer (the prince) and I simply wanted more Snow and less Queen the entire time. I didn't like the Baker character - she was just too overly cheesy, but Nathan Lane was incredibly funny as the Queen's whipping boy, Brighton. A film like this either needs to be way over-the-top to feel like a live-action cartoon (like "Enchanted") or transfer the fantasy story into a more realistic feel. "Mirror Mirror" gets caught in the middle. It will never become one of the classic fantasy films but I will look forward to watching it with my children some day.
"Mirror Mirror" is entertaining in spite of Julia Roberts. This adaptation of Snow White has its high and low points but makes for a good family film. Even though their names have been dropped from the title, the seven dwarves are by far the highlight of this film. They certainly aren't HappyGrumpySleepyDopeySneezyBashfulDoc, but many of the dwarves receive deeper character development than mere personality traits. The stand-outs are Mark Povinelli as Half-Pint (the dwarf with the constant crush on Snow White) and Danny Woodburn (from Seinfeld) as Grimm, the leader of the bandits. Every moment that these dwarves were on screen, it felt charming and funny. I cannot say the same for Julia Roberts. From her opening voice-over, she came off as annoying to me (and I'm generally a fan of hers). She didn't seem evil - just mean. It just didn't seem like she was acting; unfortunately, her typical character does not fit well into a fantasy film. Maybe I had too high of an expectation because she was on the movie poster, but I don't think that is an unfair expectation of an Oscar winner. Unlike Julia who did not fit into the plot, Lily Collins made a perfect Snow White, kind and innocent but able to handle a sword. Though the acting was sometimes a bit over-the-top, I think that it was intentional as she played this fantasy princess. Her chemistry was good with Armie Hammer (the prince) and I simply wanted more Snow and less Queen the entire time. I didn't like the Baker character - she was just too overly cheesy, but Nathan Lane was incredibly funny as the Queen's whipping boy, Brighton. A film like this either needs to be way over-the-top to feel like a live-action cartoon (like "Enchanted") or transfer the fantasy story into a more realistic feel. "Mirror Mirror" gets caught in the middle. It will never become one of the classic fantasy films but I will look forward to watching it with my children some day.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Peeping Tom - 5 stars out of 10
Peeping Tom - 5 stars out of 10
"Peeping Tom" has some shocking content for a 1960's film. You can really sense director Michael Powell pushing the boundaries of content with the eroticism and violence contained in this film. Unfortunately for him, this film destroyed his career even though it has been appreciated by later generations of film fans. The story carries a sense of mystery from beginning to end, prodding at the question of what creates so much terror on the victims' faces. The film's creepy factor comes entirely from the main character, played by Carl Boehm, who meanders around staring in windows and watching movies of his murder victims in his bedroom. The use of point of view angles, particularly making it appear that we are looking through a camera, is reminiscent of Hitchcock and creatively allows us to see the world through the murderer's eyes. While the film is Hitchcockian in concept, it doesn't always reach that masterful level of execution. The pacing of the film tends to drag and there is a lot of wasted potential on the blind mother. Also, horror films do not tend to attract the most famous actors, but Hitchcock would have done a much better job of casting these supporting roles. The leads bring their roles to life, but the rest of the cast is forgettable as soon as the film ends. Still, the scene where Anna Massey first sees one of the murder films is chilling as her emotions evolve from confusion to shock to terror and the film has a dark, twisted ending that you will never forget.
"Peeping Tom" has some shocking content for a 1960's film. You can really sense director Michael Powell pushing the boundaries of content with the eroticism and violence contained in this film. Unfortunately for him, this film destroyed his career even though it has been appreciated by later generations of film fans. The story carries a sense of mystery from beginning to end, prodding at the question of what creates so much terror on the victims' faces. The film's creepy factor comes entirely from the main character, played by Carl Boehm, who meanders around staring in windows and watching movies of his murder victims in his bedroom. The use of point of view angles, particularly making it appear that we are looking through a camera, is reminiscent of Hitchcock and creatively allows us to see the world through the murderer's eyes. While the film is Hitchcockian in concept, it doesn't always reach that masterful level of execution. The pacing of the film tends to drag and there is a lot of wasted potential on the blind mother. Also, horror films do not tend to attract the most famous actors, but Hitchcock would have done a much better job of casting these supporting roles. The leads bring their roles to life, but the rest of the cast is forgettable as soon as the film ends. Still, the scene where Anna Massey first sees one of the murder films is chilling as her emotions evolve from confusion to shock to terror and the film has a dark, twisted ending that you will never forget.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Enter the Dragon (1973) - 7 stars out of 10
Enter the Dragon (1973) - 7 stars out of 10
I am not a kung fu aficionado but I know that "Enter the Dragon" is one of the best kung fu films ever made. Bruce Lee is flat out impressive in this clinic on how to kick butt with martial arts. His character quickly transforms from calm to lethal and back again with each fight sequence. Even though you know that he has to win, it is nice that the hero isn't invincible and does suffer some damage along the way. There is never a high expectation of the actors in this genre but Lee provides that memorable role that we all crave. It is so tragic that he died prior to this film's release at the age of 32. Like the Mozart of martial arts, film would likely be very different today if Lee had lived longer and continued to bring kung fu into the spotlight of cinema. Jackie Chan rejuvenated it with the "Rush Hour" movies, but it just isn't the same as the raw intensity of "Enter the Dragon." The mirror sequence is one of the most impressive cinematic sequences that I have ever seen. I have no concept of how the camera were not visible during this portion of the film. This film just has an overwhelming sense of cool. Cool lead character, cool martial artists in the tournament, cool atmosphere, and cool villain with detachable weapons for hands! Kung fu may not be your thing (as it is not mine), but "Enter the Dragon" is just one of those films that everybody must see at least once.
I am not a kung fu aficionado but I know that "Enter the Dragon" is one of the best kung fu films ever made. Bruce Lee is flat out impressive in this clinic on how to kick butt with martial arts. His character quickly transforms from calm to lethal and back again with each fight sequence. Even though you know that he has to win, it is nice that the hero isn't invincible and does suffer some damage along the way. There is never a high expectation of the actors in this genre but Lee provides that memorable role that we all crave. It is so tragic that he died prior to this film's release at the age of 32. Like the Mozart of martial arts, film would likely be very different today if Lee had lived longer and continued to bring kung fu into the spotlight of cinema. Jackie Chan rejuvenated it with the "Rush Hour" movies, but it just isn't the same as the raw intensity of "Enter the Dragon." The mirror sequence is one of the most impressive cinematic sequences that I have ever seen. I have no concept of how the camera were not visible during this portion of the film. This film just has an overwhelming sense of cool. Cool lead character, cool martial artists in the tournament, cool atmosphere, and cool villain with detachable weapons for hands! Kung fu may not be your thing (as it is not mine), but "Enter the Dragon" is just one of those films that everybody must see at least once.
Monday, July 9, 2012
The Amazing Spider-Man - 9 stars out of 10
The Amazing Spider-Man - 9 stars out of 10
"The Amazing Spider-Man" is everything that the original Spider-Man trilogy longed to be. Unlike its hokey predecessor, this reboot takes a much darker, more realistic approach. The film does have its comedic moments, but they are only there to break up the action and generally serve a purpose, enhancing the idea that Peter Parker is still just a sarcastic teenager. The interesting thin about this film is that, since it is the second time that they have done a Spider-Man origin story in the past 10 years, many of the same things happen. And yet, it doesn't matter because they are done differently and often improve upon the way that they were interpreted in the first. The reboot puts a greater emphasis on the disappearance of Parker's parents and its impact on his life, rather than just focusing on his acquisition of super powers. It follows in the footsteps of "Batman Begins" and "X-Men: First Class" by using a character-based script that resembles a drama more than an action film. The expert acting of this cast creates so much depth that it is easy to get lost in the film. Perhaps the best casting decision was Martin Sheen as Uncle Ben. The entire Spider-Man universe hinges on the fact that Ben teaches his nephew about a moral responsibility to help others and Sheen's characterization is perfect. He interprets Ben as a lovable father-figure that is playful but teaches responsibility and accountability, and I think that we all learn something from him during this film. I was unsure of the casting of Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man at first, but he has created a multi-faceted character (whereas Toby Maguire was one-sided). Between his high school insecurities, new-found abilities, feelings of abandonment, love for Gwen, motivation from anger, and others, there are many sides to this spider. I also like that he is human, taking on damage and struggling to hide it from the people around him. A great new change is that he uses his intellect to design the web-slinging devices, instead of being a magic spider with web coming out of his wrists. I'm excited to see Garfield reprise this role - his abilities provide endless possibilities for this character as he creates chemistry with everyone that he interacts with on screen. His best chemistry is with Emma Stone, developing a heartwarming not-so-hard-to-get relationship through their awkward hallway interaction, playfulness at her apartment, etc. The Gwen character is pretty deep on its own, being an integral part of the plot as the chief intern at OsCorp while struggling with her father's dangerous career. Stone adds a spunky side that makes her into the smart, attractive blonde that we all want. Denis Leary is really awesome in this movie, Sally Field gives Aunt May that concerned and helpless feel as her nephew drifts away from her, and Rhys Ifans is excellent as Dr. Connors, simultaneously a hero and a villain. I miss J.K. Simmons at The Daily Bugle, but that comedy wouldn't fit in with this darker version. More than anything, I've heard criticism about the crane operators helping Spider-Man, but isn't this the entire point of the film? Having a moral responsibility for those in need when you can help and paying it forward after someone has helped you? Yes, it was cheesey. But the theme of the film is right there in a nutshell. Not to mention that one of the most incredible moments of the film is earlier when Spider-Man saves the kid ("Wear this. It will make you stronger.") After that amazing sequence, I'll gladly allow the dad to contribute a cheesy moment! The action sequences are amazing, the villain is terrifying, and James Horner's score portrays every emotion from heroic to creepy. If you liked the original Spider-Man franchise, you will love this superior incarnation.
"The Amazing Spider-Man" is everything that the original Spider-Man trilogy longed to be. Unlike its hokey predecessor, this reboot takes a much darker, more realistic approach. The film does have its comedic moments, but they are only there to break up the action and generally serve a purpose, enhancing the idea that Peter Parker is still just a sarcastic teenager. The interesting thin about this film is that, since it is the second time that they have done a Spider-Man origin story in the past 10 years, many of the same things happen. And yet, it doesn't matter because they are done differently and often improve upon the way that they were interpreted in the first. The reboot puts a greater emphasis on the disappearance of Parker's parents and its impact on his life, rather than just focusing on his acquisition of super powers. It follows in the footsteps of "Batman Begins" and "X-Men: First Class" by using a character-based script that resembles a drama more than an action film. The expert acting of this cast creates so much depth that it is easy to get lost in the film. Perhaps the best casting decision was Martin Sheen as Uncle Ben. The entire Spider-Man universe hinges on the fact that Ben teaches his nephew about a moral responsibility to help others and Sheen's characterization is perfect. He interprets Ben as a lovable father-figure that is playful but teaches responsibility and accountability, and I think that we all learn something from him during this film. I was unsure of the casting of Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man at first, but he has created a multi-faceted character (whereas Toby Maguire was one-sided). Between his high school insecurities, new-found abilities, feelings of abandonment, love for Gwen, motivation from anger, and others, there are many sides to this spider. I also like that he is human, taking on damage and struggling to hide it from the people around him. A great new change is that he uses his intellect to design the web-slinging devices, instead of being a magic spider with web coming out of his wrists. I'm excited to see Garfield reprise this role - his abilities provide endless possibilities for this character as he creates chemistry with everyone that he interacts with on screen. His best chemistry is with Emma Stone, developing a heartwarming not-so-hard-to-get relationship through their awkward hallway interaction, playfulness at her apartment, etc. The Gwen character is pretty deep on its own, being an integral part of the plot as the chief intern at OsCorp while struggling with her father's dangerous career. Stone adds a spunky side that makes her into the smart, attractive blonde that we all want. Denis Leary is really awesome in this movie, Sally Field gives Aunt May that concerned and helpless feel as her nephew drifts away from her, and Rhys Ifans is excellent as Dr. Connors, simultaneously a hero and a villain. I miss J.K. Simmons at The Daily Bugle, but that comedy wouldn't fit in with this darker version. More than anything, I've heard criticism about the crane operators helping Spider-Man, but isn't this the entire point of the film? Having a moral responsibility for those in need when you can help and paying it forward after someone has helped you? Yes, it was cheesey. But the theme of the film is right there in a nutshell. Not to mention that one of the most incredible moments of the film is earlier when Spider-Man saves the kid ("Wear this. It will make you stronger.") After that amazing sequence, I'll gladly allow the dad to contribute a cheesy moment! The action sequences are amazing, the villain is terrifying, and James Horner's score portrays every emotion from heroic to creepy. If you liked the original Spider-Man franchise, you will love this superior incarnation.
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