Quentin Tarantino is one of those filmmakers that has definitely left his mark in this society as a writer/director with such distinction that after the first five minutes of the film, one can come the realization that this is a Tarantino film. He is hell bent in righting wrongs even if he has to change history, people or situations to make that happen. You can truly see this in his "Django Unchained".
It is 1858, two years before The Civil War. Former dentist, Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz), buys the freedom of a slave, Django (Jamie Foxx) and trains him with the intent to make him his deputy bounty hunter. Meanwhile, Django comes to realize that his wife, Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), who is under the hands of Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio) a ruthless plantation owner in Mississippi, is a place that he and Schultz must arrive at in order to scam their way to getting Broomhilda back.
Others to round out the cast are Samuel L. Jackson as Stephen, Candie's head servant at the plantation, Walton Goggins as Billy Cash, henchman of Candie's, Dennis Christopher as Leonide Moguy, Candie's lawyer, James Remar as Butch Pooch/Ace Speck, David Steen as Mr. Stonesipher, and Laura Cayouette as Lara Lee Candie-Fitzwilly, Cal's sister.
This was brilliantly written and directed by Tarantino ("Reservoir Dogs" '92, "Pulp Fiction" '94, "Jackie Brown" '97, "Kill Bill: Vol. 1" '03, "Kill Bill: Vol. 2" '04, "Sin City" (special guest director) '05, "Grindhouse" (segment "Death Proof") '07, "Inglourious Basterds" '09). The way Tarantino can take a concept, whether familiar or not, and make it flow from one scene to the next so effortlessly is amazing. If you want to see one of his best, rent "Inglourious Basterds". The way he rewrote history to fit his fantasy was so well executed, it almost made you think that this is how history really played out. This film is basically the same. He takes Schultz, makes him like a 21st century thinking type person and puts him in the 19th century, teams him up with this slave, Django, becomes Django's mentor, and lets us see how this is going to play out with all the others that are clearly 19th century thinking people. It makes this script such a hoot.
If you're a Tarantino fan, you will just revel in your seats, but even if you're not, the way the story unfolds with the expertise acting, specifically by Waltz, even Foxx and DiCaprio, the writing and directing, it will even have you enjoying this ride.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: R 165mins.
With all objectivity, musicals are probably my least favorite genre, but I'm a critic, so objectivity is key to writing reviews. So many musicals just seem so silly, unrealistic, and phony. But when "Chicago" '02 came along, it basically helped in winning me over to that genre. I feel Hollywood had the same concern--that they were losing the musical audience, because since Chicago, Hollywood has produced more cutting edge musicals i.e. "Sweeney Todd" '07, "Burlesque" '10, even the ridiculous "Rock of Ages" '12, and now the brilliant "Les Miserables".
Prisoner 24601, known as Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) is released from prison after a 19 year stint for stealing a loaf of bread, but then breaks parole to create a new life for himself while evading the grip of the persistent Inspector Javet (Russell Crowe). Set post Revolutionary France between 1815-1832, the story reaches resolution against the background of the June rebellion.
Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine's (Anne Hathaway) daughter, Cosette (Isabelle Allen). As Cosette becomes a woman, she (now Amanda Seyfried) meets a young French rebel, Marius (Freddie Redmayne) with whom she falls in love with. Many lives change due to Valjean's breaking away.
Others to round out the cast are Sacha Baron Cohen as Thenardier, Helena Bonham Carter as Madame Thenardier, Samatha Barks as Eponine, Aaron Tveit as Enjolras, Daniel Huttlestone as Gavroche, and Natalya Angel Wallace as Young Eponine.
This production was directed with such clarity and grit by Tom Hooper ("Red Dust" '04, "Longford" (TV movie) ''06, "The Damned United" '09, "The King's Speech" '10). The pathos and emotional grit he was able to get out of his actors was nothing short of perfection.
I had never seen a stage production of Les Miserables, so I was basically a novice in viewing this, and I didn't know that the entire production was performed in song. I knew it was a musical, but it surprised me that 99% of it was in a song format, which really was intriguing. And this happens to be the first film where the songs are sung 'on set' instead of in a recording studio and then have the actors lip sync the words during principal photography. That made a world of difference, because their performances were more passionate--being able to emotionally capture the moment. This being written in song by William Nicholson, made it even more of an intriguing screenplay. This was based on Cameron MacKintosh's stage play which was based on Victor Hugo's novel and again based on the book by Claude-Michel Schonberg & Alain Boubil. The music by Claude-Michel Schonberg and lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer were awesome.
The performances by Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway were incredibly moving. They definitely did their homework. The coupling of Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter was fantastic and gave this film its much needed comic relief. Jackman will undoubtedly be nominated come Oscar time.
Even though this was a film based in France and the dialect were predominantly English, it still did not detract from the expertise and incredible emotion and passion that this production exuded and then some.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 158mins.
When you're waiting for a film that has an actor with such great delivery and comic timing as with Billy Crystal, and it just comes in a little short, it's kind of disillusioning. Well, with "Parental Guidance", this is really what happened.
Old school grandfather Artie Decker (Billy Crystal), who is accustomed to calling the shots, meets his match when he and his eager-to-please wife Diane (Bette Midler) agree to babysit their three grandkids when their type-A parents Alice and Phil Simmons (Marisa Tomei and Tom Everett Scott) have to go away on a work-related trip. Not that Alice wants them to babysit, it's just that they couldn't get anyone else with such short notice.
The fact that these kids haven't had much contact with these set of grandparents makes the visit that much more challenging. So when the 21st century problems collide with Artie and Diane's old school methods of tough rules, lots of love, and old-fashioned games, it then becomes learning to bend--and not holding to your ground--that binds a family together.
Others to round out the cast are Bailee Madison, Joshua Rush, and Kyle Harrison Breitkopf as Harper, Turner, and Barker Simmons--the grandkids, respectively, Gedde Watanabe as Mr. Cheng, and Tony Hawk as himself.
This was effectively directed by Andy Fickman ("She's the Man" '06, "The Game Plan" '07, "Race to Witch Mountain" '09, "Wright vs. Wrong" (TV movie) '10, "You Again" '10). This guy certainly knows his territory and he sticks to it, and this can be good, but sometimes one must gamble and branch out a little to prove what you can do. He's careful and one can't knock him for that. Where this was familiar territory for the director, the writers were even more 'careful' than Fickman. I think where writers Lisa Addario and Joe Syracuse came in short was that it would have been funnier to let Crystal and Midler cut loose a bit more than they did-- the lines seemed planned out too much without enough spontaneity.
To say this film is not good would not do it justice--it's a good film, just not a great one. Besides watching the comic talents of Crystal and Midler, this movie speaks so much more about family dysfunction and possible ways it overcome it if they just treat each other the way they'd like to be treated. Ah-h, the golden rule strikes again.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG 104mins.
Because comedies are my favorite genre, watching "The Guilt Trip" should've been a no brainer. However, as I was viewing this film, it was progressively more and more difficult to pinpoint where this comedy was going. It wasn't until at a certain point that I finally realized where the writer was trying to convey this.aaa
As inventor Andy Brewster (Seth Rogen) is about to embark on the road trip of a lifetime, a quick stop at his mom's house turns into an unexpected cross-country voyage with her, Joyce (Barbra Streisand) along for the ride.
As they travel in their small rental car, they attempt to bond, but not without a lot of awkwardness between one another. However, through all the eclectic people they encounter i.e. executives of companies Andy is trying to sell his product to, different waitresses, one, Ben Graw (Brett Cullen), who befriends Joyce, and through different situations, the two start realizing things about themselves that they never knew about. Can this mom and son heal during this trip or end up driving that wedge between each other even deeper?
Others to round out the cast are Kathy Najimy as Gayle, Miriam Margolyes as Anita, Rose Abdoo as Diana, Colin Hanks as Rob, and Adam Scott as Andrew Margolis Jr.
This was carefully delineated by director Anne Fletcher ("Step Up" '06, "27 Dresses" '08, "The Proposal" '09). Even though the majority of Fletcher's work has been as choreographer, she is certainly proving herself worthy as an effective director. It was written by Dan Fogelman ("Cars" '06, "Fred Claus" '07, "Bolt" '08, "Tangled" '10, "Cars 2" '11(orig. story), "Crazy Stupid Love" '11). This guy usually does fairly 'fluffy' stuff, but this film had a bit more soberness than his predecessors, which I feel is a good thing. When I mentioned prior that I wasn't sure where this film was going, I actually thought that this was going to be a zany, crazy comedy, and instead, it was more subtle, sober-like in that these two people had to evolve or end up killing one another. So, what I thought at first was a very funny film, turned out to be a more poignant comedy. One can say, I even had to evolve myself in how I was going to accept this. And what I concluded was that you have to give this film a chance--it will grow on you.
The chemistry between Steisand and Rogen was far better than I could have even imagined, and that, in and of itself, is practically worth the price of admission.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG-13 95mins.
We've seen a plethora of films that have origins or beginnings in mind-- "Batman", "Star Trek", "Star Wars" to name a few. It seems to be that 'origin' films are becoming a hot commodity, because now we have the much anticipated "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey", which is basically a story that precedes "The Lord of the Rings".
This story, told as a flashback from an older Bilbo (Ian Holm), a younger Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) is reluctantly swept into a quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Approached, out of the blue, by the wizard Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen), Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarfs led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage). Their journey takes them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs, deadly Wargs and Giant Spiders, Shapeshifters and Sorcerers.
Although their goal lies to the east and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain, first they must escape the goblin tunnels, where Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever... Gollum (Andy Serkis). Here, alone with Gollum, on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins not only discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of Gollum's "precious" ring that holds unexpected and useful qualities.
Others to round out the cast are Hugo Weaving as Elrond, Cate Blanchett as Galadriel, Christopher Lee as Saruman, Barry Humphries as Great Goblin, Lee Pace as Thranduil, Jeffrey Thomas as Thor, Michael Mizrahi as Thrain, Sylvester McCoy as Radagast, Ken Stott as Balin, Graham McTavish as Dwalin, William Kircher as Bifur/ Tom Troll, James Nesbitt as Bofur, Stephen Hunter as Bombur, Dean O'Gorman as Fili, Aidan Turner as Kili, John Callen as Oin, Peter Hambleton as Gloin/William Troll, Jed Brophy as Nori, Mark Hadlow as Dori/Bert Troll, and Adam Brown as Ori.
This was directed Peter Jackson ("Bad Taste" '87, "Meet the Feebles" '89, "Dead Alive" '92, "Heavenly Creatures" '94, "The Frighteners" '96, "The Lord of the Rings Trilogy" '01,'02,'03, "King Kong" '05, "The Lovely Bones" '09), and he has established a definite style, not to mention that he goes nowhere without Weta Digital, Inc., the visual effects company he uses on all his big-budget films. This was written by Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, and Guillermo del Toro based on J.R.R. Tokien's novel, "The Hobbit". The story kind of started a bit slow, but once it built momentum, it just took off and was much more enjoyable. It's a little long-in-the-tooth, but it did have a lot to say.
The Visual Effects/Animation by Weta Digital, Inc. was absolutely seamless as were the the miniatures which could be nominated come Academy Award time.
If you're a real Tolkien fan you'll love this, and you already know there is more to come after these end credits roll. There were flaws in this, but all in all, the majority definitely made this film worthy of viewing especially in that 3D format.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG-13 169mins.
Out of all the genres Hollywood has to offer, the one that is usually the most predictable has got to be either the romantic comedy and/or the romantic dramatic comedy. When I saw the trailer for "Playing for Keeps", I thought, great cast, but looks like it's a bit predictable. Don't you just hate it when you're right at the times you don't want to be?
A former soccer sports star, George Dryer (Gerard Butler) who's fallen on hard times starts coaching his son, Lewis' (Noah Lomax) soccer team, as a way to get his life together again, especially in getting back his ex-wife, Stacie (Jessica Biel). His attempts to become an adult are met with challenges from the attractive soccer moms who pursue him at every turn, especially Barb (Judy Greer) and Denise (Catherine Zeta-Jones).
Others to round out the cast are Dennis Quaid as Carl, Uma Thurman as Patti, Carl's wife, James Tupper as Matt, Abella Wyss as Ally, Grant Goodman as Billy, Grant Collins as Griffin, Aidan Potter as Hunter, Marlena Lerner as Samantha, Igbal Theba as Param, George's landlord, and Sean O'Bryan as Asst. Coach Jacob.
This was effectively directed by Gabriele Muccino ("But Forever in My Mind" '99, "The Last Kiss" '01, Remember Me, My Love" '03, "The Pursuit of Happyness" '06, "Seven Pounds" '08, "Kiss Me Again" '10). Certainly wasn't one of Muccino's better efforts, but effective. Where this film falls short is in, you guessed it, the lack of a tight script which was executed by Robbie Fox ("Shooting Elizabeth" '92, "So I Married an Axe Murderer" '93, "In the Army Now"--story, '94). As stated above, the way the script unfolded was amazingly predictable. One could practically mouth the words by the way each scene was played out.
If you're a film goer that's really into a formulaic, structured, storyline and script, you will love this, however if you're looking for something meatier with an unpredictable plot and ending, at least bittersweet, you will be squirming in your seat kicking yourself for not waiting for the DVD.
Out of 4 stars: 2 Rated: PG-13 105mins.
One can always count on period films being lavishly produced, with amazing costumes, production design, makeup, cinematography, and a sweeping original score. Well, with "Anna Karenina", we got production values that went off the charts.
The third collaboration of Keira Knightley with director Joe Wright, following the award-winning successes "Pride & Prejudice" and "Atonement", is a bold, theatrical new vision of the epic story of love and lust, adapted from Leo Tolstoy's timeless novel by Academy Award winner, Tom Stoppard ("Shakespeare in Love").
This is Imperial Russia in the year 1874. The story powerfully explores the capacity of love that surges through the human heart. As Anna (Knightley) questions her happiness and marriage to Karenin (Jude Law), change comes all around her in the form of the meeting and temptation of younger, Count Vronsky (Aaron Johnson). Is this love or is it lust?
Others to round out the cast are Matthew MacFadyen as Oblonsky, Domhnall Gleeson as Levin, Alicia Vikander as Kitty, Kelly MacDonald as Dolly, Ruth Wilson as Princess Betsy Tverskoy, Olivia Williams as Countess Vronsky, and Emily Watson as Countess Lydia Ivanovna.
This was well directed by Joe Wright ("Pride & Prejudice" '05, "Atonement" '07, "The Soloist" '09, "Hanna" '11) in that he knew where he needed to place his actors so they were in the best position and paced in just the right way. It was well written by Tom Stoppard ("The Romantic Englishwoman" '75, "Despair" '78, "The Human Factor" '79, "Brazil" '85, "Empire of the Sun" '87, "The Russia House" '90, "Billy Bathgate" '91, "Shakespeare in Love" '98, "Enigma" '01) based on Tolstoy"s novel. It was accurately written, however the subject matter is certainly something we've seen quite a bit, but this isn't any fault of Stoppard.
The adage that I thought of while seeing the character of Anna unfold was, "oh what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive". Anna clearly wanted her cake and eat it, too, which is just not realistic. Knightley simply gives the performance of her career, probably receive an Oscar nod as Wright for direction.
If you liked "Pride & Prejudice" and "Atonement", you'll love this. Even if one isn't a fan of these type of stories, the production values: music, costumes, production design, makeup/hair, etc., this will still be able to keep the attention of those people even though it's a bit long in the tooth.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 130mins.
Each year at Christmas time, we see a plethora of films to commemorate this time of year. There is usually at least one animated film, last year being "Arthur's Christmas". Well, Hollywood certainly didn't disappoint us, because this year we have "Rise of the Guardians" to watch as we munch on our popcorn.
When evil spirit Pitch aka The Boogy Man (Jude Law) launches an assault on Earth, the Immortal Guardians including North aka Santa Claus (Alec Baldwin), Jack Frost (Chris Pine), Bunny aka Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman), Tooth aka Tooth Fairy (Isla Fisher),and Sandy aka Sand Man (voiceless), team up to protect the innocence of children all around the world. The survival of the Guardians is contingent on the belief of them, and as long as even one child believes, they will continue on. As with one child in particular, Jamie Bennett (Dakota Goyo) who refuses to stop believing, it will have to be their responsibility to protect him even more.
Others to round out the cast are Khamani Griffin as Caleb, Kamil McFadden as Claude, Georgie Grieve as Sophie Bennett, Jamie's sister, Emily Nordwind as Jamie's Mom/Jack's mother, Jacob Bertrand as Monty, Olivia Mattingly as Pippa/Jack's sister, and Dominique Grund as Cupcake.
This was effectively directed by Peter Ramsey ("Monster's vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space" (TV movie) '09, and as a storyboard artist on a ton of films). Considering his limited experience as director in feature films, he should go the distance. It was written by David Lindsay-Abaire ("Robots" '05, "Inkheart" '08, "Rabbit Hole" '10). The plot wasn't overly original--good vs. evil as we've seen in Christmas films before as with films in general, but it still had an entertaining quality to it which made it more palatable. Dreamworks Animation definitely assisted with bringing any life to this film.
As with all films of this type, and being presented in the 3D format, this certainly will look better if seen on the large screen. This wasn't a great film, but certainly an acceptable attempt that has been done so often for the silver screen.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG 97mins.
One thing that I've noticed is when a biopic film is made, it's usually never about the person's life as much as it is about a certain portion of their life. As with the case of "Hitchcock", it centers on that part of Alfred Hitchcock's making of his 1960 release of "Psycho".
It's 1959. Following his great success with "North by Northwest", director Alfred Hitchcock (Anthony Hopkins) makes a daring choice for his next project: an adaptation of Robert Bloch's novel "Psycho". When Paramount Pictures' chief executive, Barney Balaban (Richard Portnow) refuses to finance the film, Hitchcock is forced to pay for it himself in exchange for 40% of the profits. His wife, Alma Reville (Helen Mirren), has serious reservations about the film, but supports him nonetheless. As the film is cast, Anthony Perkins (James D'Arcy), Janet Leigh (Scarlett Johansson), and Vera Miles (Jessica Biel), the production still becomes a strain on the couple's marriage.
Others to round out the cast are Danny Houston as Whitfield Cook, friend of Alma's, Toni Collette as Peggy Robertson, Hitchcock's faithful assistant/secretary, Michael Stuhlbarg as Lew Wasserman, Hitchcock's agent, Michael Wincott as Ed Gein, the man in which the novel "Psycho" is based on, Kurtwood Smith as Geoffrey Shurlock, head of rating association, Ralph Macchio as Joseph Stefano, screenwriter for "Psycho", Kai Lennox as Hilton Green, Tara Summers as Rita Riggs, and Wallace Langham as Saul Bass.
This was deftly directed by virtual newcomer Sacha Gervasi ("Anvil: The Story of Anvil" (Documentary) '08). The pacing of this and the emotions he was able to extract from his actors was incredible. This guy will certainly go far in the directing arena. This was written by John J. McLaughlin ("Death Collector" '88, "The Last Good Time" '94, "Man of the House" '05, "Black Swan" '10) based on Stephen Rebello's book "Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho". This was extremely well written in that it really showcased Alma's dedication to her husband's work, but at the same time, helping a friend with a book he wrote and having the ability to connect the two situations.
Obviously if you are a Hitchcock affictionato, you will revel, but even if one isn't, you can still respect the method acting approach which Hopkins definitely gave his character. He will receive an Oscar nod as will Mirren as Alma. As you're watching this, Hopkins becomes so convincing as the title role, that you may get mesmerised and think you're watching the real thing.
Out of 4 stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 98mins.
We've all seen crime dramas about the Mob and even if it is done well i.e. production values, acting, cinematography, etc., we've seen so-o many that they tend to become a bit old. Well, with "Killing Them Softly", with the exception of the acting, we still get that script that we've seen all too much and want to scream, "Is there no other original slant on this genre?"
Jackie Cogan (Brad Pitt) is an enforcer hired to restore order after three dumb, crude crooks, Frankie (Scoot McNairy), Russell (Ben Mendelsohn) who are headed up by Johnny Amato (Vincent Curatola) decide to rob a Mob protected poker game officiated by Markie Trattman (Ray Liotta), causing the local criminal economy to collapse which really angers Dillon (Sam Shepard) a Mob leader.
Jackie hires a fellow hit man, Mickey (James Gandolfini) to help him with these 'hits', but not seeing him in two years, it turns out that Mickey has his own set of problems that completely perplexes Jackie where he even suspects Mickey's ability to fulfill the hit he's being paid to do.
Others to round out the cast are Richard Jenkins as Driver, Trevor Long as Steve Caprio, Max Casella as Barry Caprio, Slaine as Kenny Gill, and Linara Washington as Hooker.
This was written and directed by Andrew Dominik ("Chopper" 2000, "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" '07). The direction was spot on-- the pacing, the frenetic feel of the characters, however, the writing is clearly a different story. First of all, it moved so slowly even though it was only a 97 minute running time, and secondly, it kind of jumped around too much--the adhesiveness of the script was disjointed at places. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a total wash--the premise, Mob against Mob was intriguing, but the execution needed more work.
If you are into fine acting, specifically Pitt, McNairy,and Mendelsohn, you will revel, but only if that's all one is looking for. Pitt could be nominated come Oscar time, but not even he was enough to save this attempt.
Out of 4 stars: 2.5 Rated: R 97mins.
I'm not sure what is Hollywood's fascination with remakes. Is it to make easy money, or are they running out of ideas, or is that all things eventually end up making a circle? Maybe it's a combination of all these aspects, but whatever it is, the remakes, most of the time, aren't ever as well thought out as their predecessors. That being said, we now have "Red Dawn". Not only is this a remake, but one that wasn't made originally too many years earlier-- 1984 with Patrick Swayze and C. Thomas Howell seems to come to mind.
Spokane, Washington awakens to the surreal sight of foreign paratroopers dropping from the sky-- shockingly, the U.S. has been invaded by the North Koreans, and their hometown is the initial target. Quickly and without warning, the citizens find themselves prisoners and their city being under enemy capture. Determined to fight back, a group of young patriots headed up by marine, Jed Eckert (Chris Hemsworth) and includes his brother, Matt (Josh Peck), and friends, Robert Kitner (Josh Hutcherson), Toni Walsh (Adrianne Palicki), Erica Martin (Isabel Lucas), Daryl Jenkins(Connor Cruise), Danny (Edwin Hodge), Julie (Alyssa Diaz), and Greg (Julian Alcaraz), seek refuge in the wooded outskirts of town, training and reorganizing themselves into a guerrilla fighting team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, they end up calling themselves the Wolverines, banding together to protect one another, liberate their city from its captors which is headed up by Captain Cho (Will Yun Lee), and take back their freedom which they will soon find out that it bears a terrible cost.
Others to round out the cast are Brett Cullen as Tom Eckert, police officer Dad to Jed and Matt, Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Tanner, a marine, Fernando Chien as Lt. Pak, a marine, Kenneth Choi as Smith, Matt Gerald as Hodges, another marine, and Steve Lenz as Pete.
This was directed by virtual newcomer to feature films, Dan Bradley. If his name sounds familiar, it's because he has been a stunt coordinator on a ton of films, so he has worked with many actors in that capacity. So it's not a stretch that the directing here was decent. He should go far. It was written by Carl Ellsworth and Jeremy Passmore based on the 1984 screenplay by Kevin Reynolds and John Milius which was based on Reynold's story. This is where the film didn't fair as well. The original had more dialogue so as to get to know the characters more, whereas in this, it was much more explosions and gunfire. Hey, it was only an hour and thirty-three minute running time, so they had to cut to chase fairly quick.
If you're an adrenaline junkie, you'll revel, but if you're looking for more character development, you know, getting to know the people you're rooting for more, then this will leave putting in notches on your belt as the body count only rises.
Out of 4 stars: 2.5 Rated: PG-13 93mins.
Films that are epic in size are usually strewn with fine acting, amazing directing, are photographed with perfection and have seamless visual effects. Well, "Life of Pi' showcases this in spades.
Based on the best selling novel by Yann Martel, is a magical adventure story centering on Pi Patel (Suraj Sharma), the precocious son of zoo keeper, Santosh (Adil Hussain) and of his mother, Gita (Tabu). Dwellers in Pondicherry, India, the family decides to move to Canada, hitching a ride on a huge freighter, Pi finds himself adrift in the Pacific Ocean during a terrible storm on a 26-foot lifeboat with a zebra, a hyena, an orangutan, and a 450-pound Bengal tiger named Richard Parker, all fighting for survival.
This is all told as a flashback from an adult Pi (Irrfan Khan) to a writer (Rafe Spall) who is in need of a good story. This epic story is about one young man's life challenge which includes adventure, discovery, and self-redemption.
Others to round out the cast are Gerald Depardieu as the cook, Ayush Tandon as 11-12 yr. Pi Patel, Gautam Belur as 5 yr. Pi Patel, Vibish Sivakumar as 18-19 yr. Ravi Patel, Pi's brother, Mohd Abbas Kaleeli as 13-14 yr. Ravi Patel, Shravanthi Sainath as Anandi, Pi's girlfriend, Andrea Di Stefano as the priest, James Saito as older insurance investigator, and Jun Naito as younger insurance investigator.
This was extremely well directed by Ang Lee ("Pushing Hands" '92, "The Wedding Banquet" '93, "Eat Drink Man Woman" '94, "Sense and Sensibility" '95, "The Ice Storm" '97, "Ride with the Devil" '99, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" 2000, "Hulk" '03, "Brokeback Mountain" '05, "Lust, Caution" '07, "Taking Woodstock" '09) using passion as his typical trademark. This was written by David Magee based on Martel's novel.
Certainly one of the stars of this was cinematographer, Claudio Miranda, asc ("A Thousand Roads" '05, "Failure to Launch" '06, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" '08, "TRON: Legacy" '10). His ability to use lights and shadows in conjunction with filming reflections as though they were created visually was simply amazing, and will undoubtedly be nominated come Oscar time. The way this film is presented visually, it will give one the feeling that it was located in some surreal places. The visual effects, predominantly created by Rhythm & Hues Studios were seamless, but it was Miranda's photography which really shined.
If you're going to see this, you must see it on the large screen preferably in the 3D process, otherwise it will lose everything in the translation. As this story is being told, Lee and Magee wanted to take you on a pleasurable ride, and they succeeded.
Out of 4 stars: 4 Rated: PG 125mins.
The vampire theme is seemingly diminishing from theaters, however this theme is bigger than ever on TV, cable stations too be exact. So considering how much money "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn- Part 2" has pulled in, there must be a ton of TV watchers in that audience, not to mention teenage girls, which is this franchise's target audience.
Bella (Kristen Stewart) is enjoying her new life and new powers after the birth of hers and Edward's (Robert Pattinson) daughter, Renesmee (Mackenzie Foy). Soon, however, their family bliss is treatened once again by a familiar menace-- the Volturi headed up by Aro (Michael Sheen) and Jane (Dakota Fanning). This time vampire Irina (Maggie Grace) believes a child like Renesmee could challenge the power and existence of the Volturi. As Irina rallies the Volturi to destroy this potential threat, Bella, the Cullens headed up by Dr. Carlisle Cullen (Peter Facinelli), Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner), and ones that the Cullens have gathered to help, are preparing to fight, if need be, to a crucial, ultimate battle, to protect their family.
Others to round out the cast are Elizabeth Reaser as Esme Cullen, wife of Carlisle, Ashley Greene as Alice Cullen, Billy Burke as Charlie Swan, Bella's Dad, Jackson Rathbone as Jasper Hale, Kellan Lutz as Emmett Cullen, Nikki Reed as Rosalie Hale, Chaske Spencer as Sam Uley, Jamie Campbell Bower as Caius, Cameron Bright as Alec, Rami Malek as Benjamin, Andrea Powell as Sasha, and Charlie Bewley as Demetri.
This was paced very well by director, Bill Condon ("Sister, Sister" '87, "Murder 101" (TV movie) '91, "Dead in the Water" (TV movie) '91, "Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh" '95, "Gods and Monsters" '98, "Kinsey" '04, "Dreamgirls" '06, "Tilda" (TV movie) '11, "The Twight Saga: Breaking Dawn- Part 1" '11). It was written by Melissa Rosenberg ("Step Up" '06, and all five of the Twilight Saga films) which was based on Stephenie Meyer's novel, "Breaking Dawn". With the exception of a couple, mostly one twist in this, this, as its predecessors, is completely predictable. One could practically recite the script. But I'm not sure who the real culprit is: Rosenberg or Meyer, because the novels are certainly similar in their writings, so it would lead one to conclude the screenplay would be the same. All that I know is that the 116 minute running time seemed longer than the time actually was.
If you're a 'team Edward' or 'team Jacob' type of devotee, you will be in Twilight heaven, but if you're looking for something that's a bit more fresh and original, I'd pass. Don't get me wrong, this wasn't a terrible film; it had merit, but it just wasn't a great film either. The choice is
yours.
Out of 4 stars: 2.5 Rated: PG-13 116mins.
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As I've mentioned in past reviews, biopics are usually fraught with intensity, grit and purpose, and all wrapped up in an extremely polished film replete with fine acting, directing, writing, cinematography, etc. We've all seen films and TV presentations about Abraham Lincoln, this rendition simply titled "Lincoln" is second to none.
The year is 1865. As the American Civil War winds inexorably toward a conclusion, then U.S. president Abraham Lincoln (Daniel Day-Lewis) endeavors to achieve passage of the landmark constitutional amendment 13 which will forever ban slavery from the United States which was, obviously, the reason why the Civil War even existed. However, this task is in a race against time, for peace may come at any time, and if it comes before amendment 13 is passed, the returning southern states will stop it before it can become law. Lincoln must, by almost any means possible, through the likes of William Seward (David Strathairn),W.N. Bilbo (James Spader), Robert Latham (John Hawkes), even Thaddeus Stevens (Tommy Lee Jones), Lincoln's chairman of the House Ways and Means committee, obtain enough votes, 20 to be exact, from a recalcitrant Congress before peace arrives and it is too late. Yet the president is torn, as an early peace would save thousands of lives, as the nation confronts its conscience over the freedom of its entire population, Lincoln faces his own crisis of conscience-- end slavery or end the war. His wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (Sally Field) is consistently at his side whether it be support or an unintentional hindrance.
Others to round out the cast are Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Robert Lincoln, President Lincoln's son, Hal Holbrook as Preston Blair, Jackie Earle Haley as Alexander Stephens, vice president to Jefferson Davis--southern states, Bruce McGill as Edwin Stanton, Tim Blake Nelson as Richard Schell, Joseph Cross as John Hay, Jared Harris as Ulysses S. Grant, general to the Union--northern states, Lee Pace as Fernando Wood, Peter McRobbie as George Pendleton, and Gulliver McGrath as Tad Lincoln, President Lincoln's younger son.
This film was incredibly well directed by veteran, Steven Spielberg ("Duel (TV movie) '71, "Jaws" '75, "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" '77, "Raiders of the Lost Ark" '81, "The Color Purple" '85, "Empire of the Sun" '87, "Hook" '91, "Jurassic Park" '93, "Schindler's List" '93, "Amistad" '97, "Saving Private Ryan" '98, "Minority Report" '02, "Catch Me If You Can" '02, "The Terminal" '04, "War of the Worlds" '05, "Munich" '05, "The Adventures of Tintin" '11, "War Horse" '11) and many others. Watching these actors perform, one can see how effortless Spielberg makes these characters in their different settings. It was written by Tony Kushner (Angels in America (TV movie) ''04, "Munich" '05). Considering the limited feature film experience this guy has, this was written very well. This was based in part on the book "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
This film will undoubtedly pick up several Academy Award nominations which includes Daniel Day-Lewis as best actor, Spielberg as best director, John Williams as best original score, Janusz Kaminski as best cinematography, Michael Kahn, ace as best editor, Rick Carter as best art direction, and Joanna Johnston as best costume design. I believe Lewis will win, because his performance was pure perfection. You'd swear someone exhumed Lincoln from the grave, brought him back to life and let him play the part. Sally Field did give a riveting performance as Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham.
Trust me, this film is a riveting, well thought out, expose on months nearing the end of the Civil War and attempting to bring Amendment 13 into existence, that will leave you spellbound. It is one of Spielberg's masterpieces that should eventually make its way to school classrooms for history purposes. It is a film that should be viewed by one and all, if for not the historical accounts, but for its expertise production values.
Out of 4 stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 149mins.
The original "Taken" '08 garnered critical acclaim as well as audience appeal mostly from the intense presence of Liam Neeson and the slick, tight script by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen. Well, these guys just couldn't help themselves, so they decided to do it again with, yep, you guessed it-- "Taken 2".
Bryan Mills (Neeson), the former CIA agent who rescued his daughter Kim (Maggie Grace) from Albanian human traffickers, is being targeted now by the families of the men he killed, namely the father, Murad Krasniqi (Rade Serbedgia) of some of those men. When Bryan goes to Istanbul for a job, he invites Kim and her mother, Lenore (Famke Janssen) whose marriage is on the rocks and are presently separated. When the Albanians hear of them being in Istanbul, they try to kidnap them only missing Kim, because Bryan suspected they were being followed. So Kim is able to evade them and later Bryan calls Kim to get his case which is filled with weapons. So with his directions, she locates him to get those much needed guns. Bryan escapes and plans to come back for Lenore, but ends up being outnumbered. So he, at this point, must rely on his memory of city sounds at the time he was blind-folded when kidnapped, to enable him to find her.
Others to round out the cast are Leland Orser as Sam, Jon Gries as Casey, D.B. Sweeney as Bernie, Luke Grimes as Jamie, Kim's boyfriend, Kevork Malikyan as Inspector Durmaz, and Alain Figlarz as Suko.
This was intensely directed by Olivier Megaton ("Exit" 2000, "Transporter 3" '08, "Colombiana" '11). Besson and Kamen make a great writing team and since they also wrote "Transporter 1,2 and 3", intensity with a dose of slickness is definitely their trademark. Their were a few implausibilities, such as Bryan getting a case of guns and grenades on the plane-- whether it be for business or not, and Bryan being able to tell where he was by city sounds not once, but twice seems a bit sretched. In any rate, these guys are talented storytellers.
This isn't as gritty and gripping as its predecessor, as most sequels fall into this trap, but if you did like "Taken", rest assured, you will also get into this one all the while rooting for the good guy.
Out of 4 stars: 2.5 Rated: PG-13 92mins.
The Bond franchise has been changed as far as lead characters, production companies, even the way Bond is portrayed, but when Daniel Craig took over the Bond role back when "Casino Royale" was released, I knew that this franchise still had promise. Now that Craig has two Bond flicks-- the other being "Quantum of Solace", under his belt, he now comes out with his third, "Skyfall".
James Bond's (Daniel Craig) mission is to keep a computer drive that has a list of numerous British agents from being used against them. He chases Patrice (Ola Rapace), the man who has the drive and as they eventually end up fighting on top of a train, Eve, (Naomie Harris) an agent sent to assist Bond, has them in her cross hairs but hesitates to take the shot fearing she'll hit Bond. But M (Judi Dench) orders her to take it. So she does and hits Bond who falls in the river and is presumed dead.
A few months later, the British government is upset at M16 for losing the list-- specifically with M. She is told that she'll be allowed to retire by Gareth Mallory (Ralph Fiennes), but she refuses to leave until the situation is solved. As she arrives back at HQ, there's a terrible explosion.
In the meantime, Bond, who didn't really die, but is laying low, learns of what happened and decides to return. M tasks him with finding the one who has the information. He eventually learns that the man responsible for the explosion and who has the list, is someone from M's past, and this guy is after revenge.
Others to round out the cast are Javier Bardem as Silva, Berenice Marlohe as Severine, Albert Finney as Kincade, Ben Whishaw as Q, Rory Kinnear as Tanner, M's assistant, and Helen McCrory as Clair Dowar MP. Whishaw as Q was an absolute hoot, practically stealing the show.
This was intensely directed by Sam Mendes ("Cabaret" (TV movie) '93, "Company" (TV movie) '96, "American Beauty" '99, "Road to Perdition" '02, "Jarhead" '05, "Revolutionary Road" '08, "Away We Go" '09). By his very resume, this guy is really into grit and intensity. Even this Bond film was more dark than others, so Mendes was the perfect one to helm this project. It was written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, and John Logan based on characters created by Ian Fleming. This does have a couple of surprises, but overall, it had the same caliber of that of its predecessors.
If you're a Bond fan, especially of the 'rebuilt' version, you will like this. I'm not a huge Bond fan, but for the 2 hours and 23 minute running time, it easily kept my attention and then some.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG-13 143mins.
Animated films are typically reserved for the summer audiences i.e. kids out of school, others on vacation, etc., but Walt Disney can't help themselves with producing an animated film about an anti-hero game jumping in "Wreck-It Ralph".
Wreck-It Ralph (John C. Reilly) longs to be loved as his game's perfect Good Guy, Fix-It Felix (Jack McBrayer). Problem is, nobody loves a Bad Guy. But they do love heroes... so when modern first-person shooter game arrives featuring tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun (Jane Lynch), Ralph sees it as his ticket to heroism and happiness. So he 'game jumps' into the game with a simple plan-- win a metal-- but soon wrecks everything, and accidentally unleashes a deadly enemy that threatens every game in the arcade.
As Ralph inadvertently ends up in Sugar Rush, a candy coated cart racing game lead by King Candy (Alan Tudyk), he runs into Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman), a young troublemaking 'glitch' who might just be the one to teach Ralph what it means to be the Good Guy, which is more than getting a metal. But will he realize he is good enough to become a hero before it's 'Game Over' for the entire arcade?
Others to round out the cast are Adam Carolla as Wynnchel, Mindy Kaling as Taffyta Muttonfudge, Vanellope's nemesis, Joe Lo Truglio as Markowski, Ed O'Neill as Mr. Litwak, Dennis Haysbert as General Hologram, Edie McClurg as Mary, Raymond S. Persi as Gene/Zombie, Jess Harnell as Don, Rachael Harris as Deanna, and Skylar Astin as Roy.
This was well directed by Rich Moore who is a virtual newcomer to feature films-- he has a ton of TV and shorts to his credit. And, where most animated flicks usually have two directors to share the responsibilities, Moore handled this solo, also to his credit. He should go far. It was written by Phil Johnston and Jennifer Lee based on a story by Moore, Johnston, and Jim Reardon. It was a cute premise. Wreck-It Ralph is basically a take on the old '80's arcade game, Donkey Kong. This even had that sort of '80's look type of animation for arcade games which was well executed by Disney Animation Studios.
But after seeing this, and you're yearning for more animation, not to worry, because Dreamworks Animation is releasing "Rise of the Guardians" soon, and Disney is re-releasing "Monsters Inc. in 3D" in December. With the small exception of some incohesiveness in script-- too many people involved-- it was visually stunning, looked great in the 3D format, and the ride was well worth the price of admission.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG 101mins.
Consequences. It's something we all experience when we do an act or make a statement in which we know is wrong. This is basically the premise of "Flight" where every wrong choice just turns into a downward spiral seemingly to never pull out of.
Commercial airline pilot Whip Whitaker (Denzel Washington) has a problem with drugs and alcohol; ask his ex-wife, Deana (Garcelle Beauvais), though so far he's managed to complete his flights safely. His luck runs out when a disasterous mechanical malfunction causes he, his crew, co-pilot, Ken Evans (Brian Geraghty), flight attendants, Margaret Thomason (Tamara Tunie), and Katerina Marquez (Nadine Velazquez) and passengers of the plane hurtling toward the ground. Whip pulls off a miraculous crash-landing that results in only six lives lost out of the 102 souls on board. Shaken to the core, Whip vows to get sober-- but when the crash investigation by the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) and his attorney Hugh Lang (Don Cheadle) and union rep Charlie Anderson (Bruce Greenwood) exposes his addiction, he finds himself in an even worse situation.
Through a new found friend Whip met at the hospital, Nicole (Kelly Reilly) and his buddy Harling Mays (John Goodman), can this guy face his demons head on or end up circling the drain and lose everything?
Others to round out the cast are Melissa Leo as Ellen Block, who heads up the NTSB board hearing, James Badge Dale as Gaunt Young Man, Justin Martin as Will, Whip's son, Ron Caldwell as Trevor, Margaret's son, and Darius Woods as Young Will.
This was brilliantly directed by Robert Zemeckis ("Used Cars" '80, "Romncing the Stone" '84, "Back to the Future" '85, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" '88, "Back to the Future Part II" '89, "Back to the Future Part III" '90, "Death Becomes Her" '92, "Forrest Gump" '94, "Contact" '97, "What Lies Beneath" 2000, "Cast Away" 2000, "The Polar Express" '04, "Beowulf" '07, "A Christmas Carol" '09). The way Zemeckis was able to get the audience to think this guy is an incredible hero to this guy who has a ton of issues and back again was pure genius. Of course with a consummate actor like Washington in the lead role certainly made that task less daunting. It was well written by John Gatins ("Summer Catch" '01, "Hard Ball" '01, "Coach Carter" '05, "Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story" '05, "Real Steel" '11). And with the exceptions of a couple of inconsistencies in script, this was well executed. Gatins has been an actor much longer than a writer, but this proves he should definitely receive more work, which does in the form of "Real Steel II" in the works.
This as much as an intense character study of a guy's life being turned upside down. His life has slowly been going down the toilet for years, but it took his tragic event to get him prodded in a direction he really needed to face. Washington's performance was perfection as this pilot who was falling apart before your very eyes, and could possibly garner him a nod come Oscar time. You will be riveted with this film and believing the 'ride' of the film is the crash-landing, but only afterward realize that the 'ride' has only begun after the crash.
Out of 4 stars: 3.5 Rated: R 138mins.
There's not too many actors out there that can do it all-- comedy, intense drama and everywhere in between. But after viewing "Alex Cross", I realized that Tyler Perry could simply do it all, and do it with heart.
Detective and forensic psychologist Alex Cross (Tyler Perry) investigates a gruesome murder and while his partner, Tommy Kane (Edward Burns) thinks it's the work of more than one psycho, Cross believes it's an extremely well organized psychotic. Cross eventually discovers the killer has another target and Cross figures out who it is and stops the killer before he gets him. The killer, Picasso (Matthew Fox), feeling as though Cross slighted him, calls him while he's out with his wife, Maria (Carmen Ejogo) and taunts him. It's while talking to him that Cross figures out the crazed killer has a gun trained, and extremely aimed on his wife and tries to save her but fails. Picasso then calls Cross again and Cross vows to get him. So Cross decides to break all the rules to get him. Can Cross get this guy before he has a chance to achieve his next assassin?
Others to round out the cast are Rachel Nichols as Monica Ashe, Tommy and Cross' partner and Tommy's girlfriend, John C. McGinley as Richard Brookwell, Jean Reno as Leon Mercier, Giancarlo Esposito as Daramus Holiday, Cicely Tyson as Cross' mom, Chad Lindberg as Vincent Dardis, Stephanie Jacobsen as Fan Yau, Yara Shahidi as Janelle Cross, Cross' daughter, and Sayeed Shahidi as Damon Cross, Cross' son.
This was effectively directed by Rob Cohen ("DragonHeart" '96, Daylight" '96, "The Guardian"(TV movie) '97, "The Rat Pack" (TV movie) '98, "The Skulls" 2000, "The Fast and the Furious" '01, "xXx" '02, "Stealth" '05, "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" '08). It was adequately written by Marc Moss and Kerry Williamson based on the novel, "Cross" James Patterson. Usually Perry writes and directs his work, so it would be interesting to see Perry's script on this. The plot seemed a bit predictable at first, but then it did pick up and even had some twists in it, but I'm curious about how Perry would have handled this idea. Of course, we'll never know.
If you like Perry, and like him in the dramas he's done, you'll like this. After the film starts picking up, it will keep you biting your nails right through the end credits.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated PG-13 101mins.
Epic films are typically presented in grandiose ways with sweeping photography, amazing costumes and sets, usually a star-studded cast, and seamless visual effects. Well, as in the past we've seen this, with "Cloud Atlas", we certainly get this approach in spades.
Everything is connected: An 1849 diary of an ocean voyage across the Pacific; letters from a composer to his friend; a thriller about a murder at a nuclear power plant; a farce in present day about a publisher in a nursing home; a rebellious clone in futuristic Korea; and the tale of a tribe living in post- apocalyptic Hawaii far in the future. These stories and a few others are presented in a way that is to show not only how connected things are, but even to the point of how we are or could be connected as well.
The cast, and especially the characters they portray are too numerous to insert into the plot, so here goes:
Tom Hanks (Dr. Henry Goose/ a Hotel Manager/ Isaac Sachs/ Dermot Hoggins/ Cavendish look-a-like actor/ Zachry)
Halle Berry (Native Woman/ Jocasta Ayers/ Luisa Rey/ Indian party guest/ Ovid/ Meronym)
Jim Broadbent (Captain Molyneux/ Vyvyan Ayers/ Timothy Cavendish/ Korean Musician/ Prescient 2)
Hugo Weaving (Haskell Moore/ Tadeusz Kesselring/ Bill Smoke/ Nurse Noakes/ Boardman Nephi/ Old Georgie)
Jim Sturgess (Adam Ewing/ Poor Hotel guest/ Megan's Dad/ Highlander/ Hae-Joo Chang/ Zachry's Brother-in-Law
Doona Bae (Tilda/ Megan's Mom/ Mexican Woman/ Sonmi-451/ Sonmi Prostitute)
Ben Whishaw (Cabin Boy/ Robert Frobisher/ Store Clerk/ Georgette/ Tribesman)
Keith David (Kufaka/ Joe Napier/ An-Kor Apis/ Prescient)
James D'Arcy (Young Rufus Sixsmith/ Old Rufus Sixsmith/ Nurse James/ Archivist)
Xun Zhou (Talbot/ a Hotel Manager/ Yoona-939/ Rose)
David Gyasi (Autua/ Lester Rey/ Duophsyte)
Susan Sarandon (Madame Horrox/ Older Ursula/ Yusouf Suleiman/ Abbess)
Hugh Grant (Rev. Giles Horrox/ Hotel Heavy/ Lloyd Hooks/ Denholme Cavendish/ Seer Rhee/ Kona Chief)
Robert Fyfe (Old Salty Dog/ Mr. Meeks/ Prescient 1)
Martin Wuttke (Mr. Boerhaane/ Guard/ Leary the Healer)
Robin Morrissey (Young Cavendish)
When and if you see this film, you can fill in the gaps to where the characters are used. It's such a multi-faceted character portrayal with each actor, this is the best I can do to relay the characters.
This was directed by Andy Wachowski (The Matrix series), Lana Wachowski, and Tom Tykwer. I truly can see why there were multiple directors given the multiple charater portrayals and the different times or eras and places that were being depicted was needed. It was a major undertaking, to say the least.
It's not really surpring that this was executed by one of the Wachowski Brothers in that "The Matrix" dealt with a philosophical topic as does this. Even though this was based on David Mitchell's novel of the same name, the Wachowski's just couldn't resist the temptation of the philosophical reaches of reincarnation in Atlas. A question to both Mitchell and the Wachowskis is: Do we really relive lives, or do we live once, and someone else, totally different from us, picks up from where we left off when we die? I guess one has to wrap their heads around that question.
If you're like me and really wanted to see this film more for the production values and fine acting by Hanks, Berry, Broadbent and Sturgess, then you will revel. It is a feast for the eyes in its photography, costumes, production design, and special effects makeup. I guess what I'm trying to say is you don't have to be 'searching' philosophically and really get into this. And if you are 'searching', this film will leave you as many questions than answers by film end. You be the judge.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: R 172mins.
As I've mentioned in prior reviews, films based on true stories a lot of times are gripping, intense, and well thought out. In the case of "Chasing Mavericks", not only does it have these attributes, but it also has heart.
The inspirational true story of real life surfing penom Jay Moriarty (Jonny Weston). When 15 year-old Jay discovers that the mythic Mavericks surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, is not only real, but exists just miles from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend Frosty Hesson (Gerard Butler), who also happens to be to be a neighbor, to train him to survive it. Frosty is, at first, reluctant, but through Jay's incredible positive and persistent attitude, he finally agrees. As Jay and Frosty embark on their quest to accomplish the impossible, they form a unique friendship that transforms both their lives, and their quest to tame Mavericks becomes about far more than surfing. Part of this transformation has a lot to do with Frosty's loving, understanding wife, Brenda (Abigail Spencer) who is behind the two guys all the way.
Others to round out the cast are Elisabeth Shue as Kristy Moriarty, Jay's mom, Leven Rambin as Kim, Jay's girlfriend, Devin Crittenden as Blond, Jay's buddy, Taylor Handley as Sonny, a bully, Cooper Timberline as Young Jay, Maya Raines as Roquet as Frosty and Brenda's daughter, Harley Graham as Young Kim, Greg Long as Magnificent One, Peter Mel as Magnificent Two, and Zach Wormhoudt as Magnificent Three.
This was strongly directed by Curtis Hanson ("The Bedroom Window" '87, "Bad Influence" '90, "The Hand That Rock the Cradle" '92, "The River Wild" '94, "L.A. Confidential" '97, "Wonder Boys" 2000, "8 Mile" '02, "In Her Shoes" '05, "Lucky You" '07), and Michael Apted ("Agatha" '79, "Coal Miner's Daughter" '80, "Gorky Park" '83, "Firstborn" '84, "Critical Condition" "87, "Gorillas in the Mist" '88, " Class Action" '91, "Thunderheart" '92, "Blink" '94, "Nell" '94, "Extreme Measures" '96, "Enough" '02, "Amazing Grace" '06, "The Power of the Game" (Doc.) '07, "Hallelujah" (TV movie) '11).
It was written by Kario Salem based on the story of this incredible individual by Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper. The writing could have been a bit tighter, but the way Jay's build to his surfing triumph made up for any lack of cohesiveness of script.
This is a great family film about a kid who, even with many obstacles in his way, still came to a place in his life where he could really make his mark. And with all the support from friends and family, how could anyone go wrong?
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG 115mins.
Films about the effects of 'big government' on our society have been produced throughout the decades, and Ayn Rand's 1957 novel, "Atlas Shrugged" was probably one of the first to delve into that subject matter head on. Last year, her novel was tackled with "Atlas Shrugged I", and now we have "Atlas Shrugged II: The Strike". I believe her novel has to be expanded in several films to explain her idea with any clarity, otherwise, a two hour film alone couldn't cover even half the book, considering it is 800+ pages.
In the not so distant future, the global economy will be on the brink of collapse. Unemployment will top 24%. Gas prices will be up to $42.00 per gallon. Railroads will be the main mode of transportation. All the while this is happening, brilliant creators, from artists to industialists are mysteriously disappearing. Dagney Taggart (Samantha Mathis), COO of Taggart Transcontinental, has discovered an answer to the mounting energy crisis-- a prototype of a motor that draws energy from static electricity. But with all the creative minds one by one slowly vanishing, she either needs to find its creator, or find someone who can fix it from its 'dormant' state. Through Dr. Robert Stadler (Robert Picardo) who claims he doesn't have the knowledge, recommends scientist Quentin Daniels (Diedrich Bader) whom Dagney calls in. Until this motor works, Dagney is fearful that she and her colleagues of supporting businesses including Henry Reardon (Jason Beghe), Francisco d'Anconia (Esai Morales), Ken Danagger (Arye Gross), and even her brother, James Taggart (Patrick Fabian) will have to succumb to the deception of governmental control by the likes of Wesley Mouch (Paul McCrane) and others like him. As everything continues to unfold, someone is watching. Who is this? The main question asked here is, "Who is John Galt"?
Others to round out the cast are Kim Rhodes as Lillian Reardon, Henry's estranged wife, Richard T. Jones as Eddie Willers, Dagney's trusted assistant, D.B. Sweeney as John Galt, John Rubinstein as Dr. Floyd Ferris, Ray Wise as Head of State Thompson, and Bug Hall as Leonard Small.
This was adequately directed by John Putch ("Waiting to Act" '85, "Alone" '86, "Alone in the Woods" '96, "My Ghost Dog" (TV movie) '97, "The Boy Who Saved Christmas" '98, "Valerie Blake" '99, "Intrepid" 2000, "Pursuit of Happiness" '01, "The Poseidon Adventure" (TV movie) '05, "Where There's a Will" (TV movie) '06, "Mojave Phone Booth" '06, "Route 30" '07, "Murder 101: College Can Be Murder" (TV movie) '07, "Route 30, Too!" '12) and a ton of episodic TV. It was written by Duke Sandefur, Brian Patrick O'Toole, and Duncan Scott based on Rand's novel. The writing could have been a bit tighter, but trying to follow someone like Rand has got to be a chore at best, because of the different tangents she has a tendency to go into to get to her final conclusion. No doubt there will be a third installment, because this does leave you hanging. Believe me, telling you this won't destroy the film for you.
Rand gets into the two things which a lot of people choose to not to want to discuss-- politics and religion, or in this case, maybe the lack of it. And considering she wrote this in the 50's, when society as a whole was a bit more conservative, this was avant-garde writing for the day, certainly considered rebellious. This is intriguing, if for no other reason, by the presentation of a certain ideal and Rand was a unique storyteller. If you can get through a bit of stagy directing and some loose writing, this is definitely worth the watch.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG-13 112mins.
Comedies! Sometimes you can't live with them and you can't live without them. The last really tightly written comedy I've seen on screen was the very smart "Thank You for Smoking" '06-- an extremely satirical look at how bad smoking is for people. In this week offing we have "Here Comes the Boom" which is, to say the least, not as well written.
A High School Biology teacher, Scott Voss (Kevin James) looks to become a successful mixed-martial arts fighter in an effort to raise a much needed $48,000.00 to prevent extra-curricular activities from being axed by the hand of Principal Betcher (Greg Germann) at his cash-strapped school.
Voss, for extra income, teaches a US citizenship class in the evenings and one of his students he tutors, Niko (Bas Rutten) happened to be a fighter at one point in his life. So when Scott learned that even as the loser of a fight, one can still make good money, he asks Niko to train him so as to save Marty Streb's (Henry Winkler) music problem which Marty so passionately loves, as for other programs also. So, through a fellow colleague, Bell Flores (Salma Hayek), one of his students, Malia (Charice) and others, he fights, quite literally, to raise this much needed cash. Can he pull it off?
This was very adequately directed by Frank Coraci ("Murdered Innocence" '96, "the Wedding Singer" '98, "The Waterboy" '98, Around the World in 80 Days" '04, "Click" '06, "I'm in Hell" (TV movie) '07, "Zookeeper" '11). This guy has certainly done a lot for Adam Sandler-- even in this, this being a HappyMadison Productions, Sandler's company. It has definitely worked well for him. It was written by Kevin James, Allan Loeb, and Rock Reuben. Again, this was no "Thank You for Smoking", but the story is original and timely, seeing how our schools are being 'hit' so bad these days. Think this year's "Won't Back Down". This is kind of a comedic turn on this subject.
This film does have merit, so don't throw the baby out with the bath water. It's not badly written, considering how bad, over all, the comedy writing is these days, but it still could have been a bit tighter and a little more unpredictable in it's screenplay. It was an admirable attempt by one and all on a subject that needs much addressing in today's world.
Out of 4 stars: 2.5 Rated: PG 105mins.
I love comedies, so when I saw my first trailer of "Seven Psychopaths", I came to the realization that this was a film I could really sink my teeth into. Well, in the same framework of "In Bruges", "Little Miss Sunshine", "Bernie" and "It's Kind of a Funny Story" comes a film that not only is funny, but also smart.
This quirky, somewhat weird comedy follows a struggling screenwriter, Marty (Colin Farrell) who inadvertently becomes entangled in the Los Angeles criminal underworld after his oddball friends Hans (Christopher Walken) and Billy (Sam Rockwell) kidnap a gangster, Charlie's (Woody Harrelson) beloved Shih Tzu.
After being drunk and getting thrown out of his house by his wife, Kaya (Abbie Cornish), Marty ends up on his buddy, Billy's couch and starts to poor his heart out about his screenplay in which he has the name-- "Seven Psychopaths", but not really any story written down. So the two consult about it, because Marty can't go with the psychopaths being the normal, violent type. As Billy proceeds to list the different guys he knows, Marty starts realising how very psycho these guys are and starts getting ideas. However, when you continue to surround yourself around psychopaths, one ends up getting more than ideas.
Others to round out the cast are Tom Waits as Zachariah, Linda Bright Clay as Myra, wife of Hans, Zeljko Ivanek as Paulo, Charlie's henchman, Long Nguyen as Vietnamese Priest, Michael Pitt as Larry, Michael Stuhlbarg as Tommy, Gabourey Sidibe as Sharice, Christine Marzano as The Hooker, and Harry Dean Stanton as Man in Hat.
As this writer and director, Martin McDonagh ("In Bruges" '08) has been a playwright before he started in the screenwriting business gives him that edge that most newer screenwriters wouldn't have without that prior experience. His style definitely has that in-your-face, confrontational, even vulgar approach to it, which makes it a bit tough to watch, but with all objectivity, this style is very well executed. And with the cast he chose, the story couldn't go wrong.
This film is not for a mass audience, but if you like fine writing, directing, and acting. this vehicle will make you wonder why you would settle for the typical toilet humor, fart joke comedies we are besieged with all too often.
Out of 4 stars: 3.5 Rated: R 111mins.
Films based on true stories are usually gripping, strong, nail-biting movies that keep you right on the edge of your seat. Many films have done this-- "Papillion", "Patton", King's Speech", "Hollywoodland", "Chinatown", "Titanic", "Milk", even the upcoming "Hitchcock". To add to this list we now have "Argo".
November 4, 1979. As the Iranian revolution escalates and reaches a climax, a CIA 'exfiltration' specialist, Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck) concocts a risky plan to free six Americans who escaped from their embassy and found shelter at the home of the Canadian ambassador, Ken Taylor (Victor Garber).
Mendez and his bosses, Jack O'Donnell (Bryan Cranston) and Robert Pender (Zeljko Ivanek) and others attempt to concoct many different ideas in getting these people out of the country. But finally Mendez decides to come up with a fake movie and by making these Americans the film crew looking for locations for their new film, "Argo", they then would walk right out of the country as a film crew without detection. To implement this idea, Mendez contacts his friend, make up artist, John Chambers (John Goodman) and he ends up contacting producer, Lester Siegel (Alan Arkin) to help with the different aspects in order to make this work.
Others to round out the cast are Tate Donovan as Bob Anders, Clea DuVall as Cora Lijek, Scoot McNairy as Joe Stafford, Rory Cochrane as Lee Schatz, Christopher Denham as Mark Lijek, Kerry Bishe as Kathy Stafford, Kyle Chandler as Hamilton Jordan, Chris Messina as Malinov, and Titus Welliver as Bates.
This was directed with incredible grit and intensity by Ben Affleck ("Gone Baby Gone" '07, "The Town" '10). The way Affleck used quick panning cameras with rapid editing in just the right places gave the project that frenetic feel that keeps you riveted. It was wonderfully written by Chris Terrio based on an article, "Escape From Tehran" by Joshuah Bearman. As mentioned, the photography was intensely shot by Rodrigo Prieto,asc/amc ("21Grams" '03, "Alexander" '04, "Babel" '06, "State of Play" '09, "Water For Elephants" '11) and others. This guy is a consummate pro.
Affleck is a talented actor, however he cannot play just any role and pull it off-- his best being "Hollywoodland". His role in this had grit, but he definitely excelled in the director's chair. As with his past directions, he has really proven himself as the great director he is. Like other actors who have worked in front and behind the camera i.e. Clint Eastwood, Ron Howard, this guy has found his niche.
This movie simply rocks! The photography, editing, music, and the supporting cast made this story that much more realistic. You felt like you've gone back in time by the painstaking detail. This is such a well crafted film, you'll be waiting for the next Affleck project with incredible anticipation.
Out of 4 stars: 4 Rated: R 120mins.
Even though animated films are usually a summer staple, fall and winter months are also offing their fair share of them, too. We just saw "Frankenweenie", this December, we'll have "Monster's Inc. in 3D", so why not have "Hotel Transylvania" to sink your teeth into?
This is Hotel Transylvania! It's Dracula's lavish four-star resort where monsters and their families can visit and feel safe where there are no humans to contend with. On a special weekend, Dracula (Adam Sandler) has invited some of the world's most notorious monsters-- Frankenstein (Kevin James) and his wife, Eunice (Fran Drescher), the Mummy (CeeLo Green), the Invisible Man (David Spade), a family of Werewolves, Wayne (Steve Buscemi), Wanda (Molly Shannon) and kids, and more, to celebrate his daughter Mavis' 118th birthday. For Drac, catering to all these legendary monsters is no problem-- but his world seemingly comes to an end when a human, Jonathan (Andy Samberg) stumbles on the hotel for the first time and takes a shine to Mavis (Selena Gomez).
Others to round out the cast are Jon Lovitz as Quasimodo, Brian George as Suit of Armor, and Luenell as Shrunken Heads.
This was paced well by director, Genndy Tartakovsky ("Dexter's Laboratory Ego Trip" (TV movie) '99, and a ton of TV). It was written by Peter Baynham and Robert Smigel based on a story by Todd Durham, Dan Hageman, and Kevin Hageman. One of the best things of this film is that Sandler has no creative control over it like he does when his production company HappyMadison Productions are involved. This is a Columbia/Sony Pictures Animation Production. He just acts, which is best suited for him. He also didn't have anything to do with the writing, however the writing wasn't bad, but could have used some polishing. It just seemed like a number of skits were created and the attempt to connect these skits wasn't spot on-- needed a bit more cohesiveness.
This was a fun and entertaining flick with homages to all those old horror films we have grown to love. Buscemi as Wayne is especially a hoot. So, other than a few choppy places in script, this certainly has all the elements any animated flick can give you all in a 3D/90+ minute time slot.
Out of 4 stars: 3 Rated: PG 93mins.
Quentin Tarantino is one of those filmmakers that has definitely left his mark in this society as a writer/director with such distinction that after the first five minutes of the film, one can come the realization that this is a Tarantino film. He is hell bent in righting wrongs even if he has to change history, people or situations to make that happen. You can truly see this in his "Django Unchained".
