The Watcher in the Woods - 6 stars out of 10
Shockingly dark for a Disney flick! Disney has always used a lot of mysticism and they hit the nail on the head with "The Watcher In the Woods." I was impressed that a Disney movie could effectively creep me out and I question whether young kids could handle this (though I believe that the movie was intended for families). The first person cinematography representative of "The Watcher" was very well done, particularly the long uncut scene as The Watcher follows Jan through the woods. You really won't be able to predict which direction this movie will take next. Though the acting isn't the best and the movie is pretty dated, it's still an enjoyable story that will hold your attention for the entire 80 minute film!
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Thursday, May 23, 2013
The Darwin Awards - 5 stars out of 10
The Darwin Awards - 5 stars out of 10
Quirky and off-the-wall, "The Darwin Awards" provides an excellent excuse to watch people die from their own stupidity. The documentary style works well for this film, particularly as the cameraman becomes a comedic device by refusing to help in desperate circumstances to preserve the impartiality of the film. The characters are well-written. The only problem with the film is that it is a bit absurd, but it is good for what it is. Joseph Fiennes was a great choice for the lead role, emotionally detached and always deadpan. Winona Ryder also has a nice performance as the sidekick. The transitions to the Darwin Award winners are a bit abrupt but I like the way that they incorporated them into this adventure. Although I wouldn't place this in one of my top 25 comedy films, "The Darwin Awards" is good for a few laughs, a very awkward shower scene (not as bad as it sounds), and several shakes of the head as we are reminded of the stupidity within our society.
Quirky and off-the-wall, "The Darwin Awards" provides an excellent excuse to watch people die from their own stupidity. The documentary style works well for this film, particularly as the cameraman becomes a comedic device by refusing to help in desperate circumstances to preserve the impartiality of the film. The characters are well-written. The only problem with the film is that it is a bit absurd, but it is good for what it is. Joseph Fiennes was a great choice for the lead role, emotionally detached and always deadpan. Winona Ryder also has a nice performance as the sidekick. The transitions to the Darwin Award winners are a bit abrupt but I like the way that they incorporated them into this adventure. Although I wouldn't place this in one of my top 25 comedy films, "The Darwin Awards" is good for a few laughs, a very awkward shower scene (not as bad as it sounds), and several shakes of the head as we are reminded of the stupidity within our society.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Tremors - 6 stars out of 10
Tremors - 6 stars out of 10
"Tremors" is a great sci-fi horror film that probably developed its cult following from constant airtime on USA Network throughout the 90's. The concept was scary enough to make kids feel brave for watching but tame enough for parents to be comfortable with their preteens watching the censored version. This story about unexplained giant earthworms is surprisingly believable. It is probably most believable because they do not show the monsters too much, letting the imagination due most of the work. It's filming technique serves as an homage to 1950's monster movies, creating the terror through cracks in the walls, swaying buildings, and the ground being pushed up as we imagine what is causing it. The script is nothing special but the characters make it very clear that this horror film is intended as a comedy. From the annoying teenager who is constantly crying wolf to the NRA-enthusiast Gummers, the human nature of the characters creates laughs without any actual "jokes." The film stars Kevin Bacon and... that angry guy that shouts a lot (Fred Ward) but the real highlight is Michael Gross and Reba McEntire as the Gummers. Their dialogue and their arsenal make them the most entertaining part of the film, even if they are only playing minor roles. "Tremors" may not be a comic masterpiece or a chilling horror film, but it is great as a Sunday afternoon movie that can easily be shared with the family (especially if it is the tv version).
"Tremors" is a great sci-fi horror film that probably developed its cult following from constant airtime on USA Network throughout the 90's. The concept was scary enough to make kids feel brave for watching but tame enough for parents to be comfortable with their preteens watching the censored version. This story about unexplained giant earthworms is surprisingly believable. It is probably most believable because they do not show the monsters too much, letting the imagination due most of the work. It's filming technique serves as an homage to 1950's monster movies, creating the terror through cracks in the walls, swaying buildings, and the ground being pushed up as we imagine what is causing it. The script is nothing special but the characters make it very clear that this horror film is intended as a comedy. From the annoying teenager who is constantly crying wolf to the NRA-enthusiast Gummers, the human nature of the characters creates laughs without any actual "jokes." The film stars Kevin Bacon and... that angry guy that shouts a lot (Fred Ward) but the real highlight is Michael Gross and Reba McEntire as the Gummers. Their dialogue and their arsenal make them the most entertaining part of the film, even if they are only playing minor roles. "Tremors" may not be a comic masterpiece or a chilling horror film, but it is great as a Sunday afternoon movie that can easily be shared with the family (especially if it is the tv version).
Sunday, May 19, 2013
In Search of Beethoven - 7 stars out of 10
In Search of Beethoven - 7 stars out of 10
“In Search of Beethoven” is a comprehensive look at the famed composer that sets the events of his life within the context of his music and not vice versa. Since it focuses on the compositions of Beethoven, little time is spent examining his childhood. Although I wanted more of the younger years, it makes sense within the context of what the movie is trying to accomplish and I appreciate that film wasn't any longer! 2 hours and 18 minutes was the perfect amount of time to get in depth with the life and music of Beethoven, but any more would have begun to feel tiresome. With over 60 live performances, this film brings the music to life as if we were concertgoers in the early 19th century. While it takes time to interview historians about Beethoven's life, it also interviews expert performers like Emanuel Ax to give a perspective on what it is like to tackle a Beethoven piano concerto or violin sonata. While non-musicians might find this documentary to be a bit dry, it is perfect for performers and appreciators of classical music.
“In Search of Beethoven” is a comprehensive look at the famed composer that sets the events of his life within the context of his music and not vice versa. Since it focuses on the compositions of Beethoven, little time is spent examining his childhood. Although I wanted more of the younger years, it makes sense within the context of what the movie is trying to accomplish and I appreciate that film wasn't any longer! 2 hours and 18 minutes was the perfect amount of time to get in depth with the life and music of Beethoven, but any more would have begun to feel tiresome. With over 60 live performances, this film brings the music to life as if we were concertgoers in the early 19th century. While it takes time to interview historians about Beethoven's life, it also interviews expert performers like Emanuel Ax to give a perspective on what it is like to tackle a Beethoven piano concerto or violin sonata. While non-musicians might find this documentary to be a bit dry, it is perfect for performers and appreciators of classical music.
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