Vigilante films are very popular especially in this day and age where, so much of the time, the victim of a crime seems to get less and less justice, and the criminal gets away with 'murder'--quite literally in some cases. So with a populace more and more up in arms with the 'status quo', it's no wonder how films like "The Equalizer" would be more popular today than ever.
Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) is a man who believes he has put his mysterious past behind him and dedicated himself to beginning a new, quiet life. But when McCall meets Teri (Chloe Grace Moretz), a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters, he can't stand idly by--he has to help her. Armed with hidden, lethal skills that allow him to serve vengeance against anyone who would brutalize the helpless, McCall comes out of his self-imposed retirement and finds his desire for justice reawakened. McCall soon realizes that by attacking and killing a good deal of the gangsters, he just opened up 'Pandora's Box' in the process. All this only alerted the Russian kingpin, Teddy (Marton Csokas) to come to the U.S. to now have to get involved, and this is when it really gets ugly. If someone has a problem, if the odds are stacked against them, if they have nowhere else to turn, McCall will help, because he is The Equalizer.
Others to round out the cast are David Harbour as Masters, a corrupt cop helping the Russian mafia, Haley Bennett as Mandy, Bill Pullman and Melissa Leo as Brian and Susan Plummer, former colleagues of McCall, David Meunier as Slavi, Johnny Skourtis as Ralphie, Alex Veadov as Tevi, Vladimir Kulich as Vladimir Pushkin and E. Roger Mitchell as Lead Investigator.
This was directed with such underlying intensity by Antoine Fuqua ("The Replacement Killers" '98, "Bait" 2000, "Training Day" '01, "Tears of the Sun" '03, "Lightning in a Bottle" (Documentary) '04, "King Arthur" '04, "Murder Book (TV movie) '05, "Shooter" '07, "Brooklyn's Finest" '09, "Olympus Has Fallen" '13, "Exit Strategy" (TV movie) '14). The character of McCall could have played out in an over-the-top type character, and would have been effective, however with Fuqua's fine directing along with the incredible acting of Washington, this man possessing a subtle, calculating, slow-fuse, underlying, seemingly quiet individual made this man more dangerous to these brutal killers than the other way around. In other words, it was the mouse chasing the cat and not visa versa. This was well written By Richard Wenk based on the TV series by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim. You must be patient with this film--it starts off a bit slow, however, after a point, you'll see why. This must give the audience the feeling of what McCall does in this is truly justified, and to accomplish this task, Wenk had to let you get to know this guy on many levels so we can see that he's a 'regular' guy, but if push comes to shove, what's going to send him over that edge? All of this is delineated at the beginning--it is extremely important to take this in. This is not perfect, but considering there is only a couple of choppy places, those are not enough to impede on this story, and watching Denzel is just so effortless, one has a tendency to forget everything else on the screen.
As said above, even if you're not into vigilante films, Denzel's performance will keep you riveted to that seat, and that alone is worth the price of admission.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 131mins.
As we have recently entered one of the two film dead zones of the calendar year--the other being from Jan.1st-May 1st, there is an occasional gem thrown in to keep our attention on that movie screen. That gem is in the setting of "The Boxtrolls" which is a fun-filled, fantastical joyride for all to see.
This speaks of a community of quirky, mischievous creatures who have lovingly raised an orphan boy named Eggs (Isaac Hempstead Wright) in the amazing home they've built beneath the streets of a city called Cheesebridge. The story is about Eggs being raised by underground cave-dwelling trash collectors who tries to save his friends from an evil exterminator, basically the town's villain, Archibald Snatcher (Ben Kingsley). When Snatcher comes up with a plot to rid the town of The Boxtrolls--he receives the coveted 'white hat' from Lord Portley-Rind (Jared Harris) for doing so, Eggs decides to venture above ground and "into the light" where he meets and teams up with assertive, feisty Winnie (Elle Fanning). Together, they devise a daring plan to save The Boxtrolls Family.
Others to round out the cast are Nick Frost, Richard Ayoade and Tracy Morgan as Mr. Trout, Mr. Pickles and Mr. Gristle, respectively, henchmen of Snatcher, Dee Bradley Baker as Fish/Wheels/Bucket, Steve Blum as Shoe/Sparky, Nika Futterman as Oil Can/Knickers, Pat Fraley as Fragile/Sweets, Fred Tatasciore as Clocks/Specs, Simon Pegg as Herbert Trubshaw, Toni Collette as Lady Portley-Rind and Maurice LaMarche as Sir Langsdale.
This was directed with grit, pathos and poignancy by Graham Annable (Shorts) and Anthony Stacchi ("Open Season" (co-dir.) '06). Considering these guys haven't sat in that director's chair very much, these two were amazing. Every character's feelings were incredibly well delineated. It was equally well scripted by Irena Brignull and Adam Pava based on the delicious children's story, "Here Be Monsters" by Alan Snow. With such a great story, how could these writers possibly go wrong? The way that this showed us that monsters aren't monsters just because they're ugly was amazing. Monsters are what goes on in the heart, not necessarily the external, and this was made crystal clear all in an entertaining and artful way. Even if the message doesn't grab you, the Claymation animation will. This was created by Laika Entertainment ("Coraline" '09 and "ParaNorman" '12), and was just as creative as its predecessors.
This fantastic story is one for all who like a fun-filled, high-energy, adventurous tale for the young as well as for the young at heart all in a rollicking 3D format to make that roller coaster ride that much more eventful. Kudos to all who had anything to do with this production!
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG 97mins.
Crime mysteries are always compelling to view, because you know the law has to be upheld and at the same time, one wonders how the law can be upheld when the main characters are under such stress in order to solve the case. Films like "Zodiac", "Prisoners", the most recent "The Drop" and others are compelling because they put us in a place where we must figure out what's going on and what can be done to solve the problem without the risk of vigilantism. "A Walk Among the Tombstones" walks that tightrope along with the aforementioned films as well.
New York City, 1991. Matt Scudder (Liam Neeson) is off duty as a NYPD cop having a drink in a neighborhood bar, when three thugs walk in, scuffle with the bartender, shots break out, Scudder shoots two of them all the while a crisis happens and the scene fades.
New York City, 1999. Scudder is now an ex-NYPD cop who works as an unlicensed private investigator operating just outside the law. When Scudder reluctantly agrees to help a heroin trafficker Kenny Kristo (Dan Stevens) hunt down the men who kidnapped then brutally murdered his wife, Carrie (Razane Jammal) the PI learns that this is not the first time these men have committed this sort of twisted, psychotic crime...nor will it be the last. Blurring the lines between right and wrong, Scudder races to track the deviants, Ray and Albert (David Harbour and Adam David Thompson) through the back streets before they kill again. He enlists Kenny's pathetic, sad, drug addict brother, Peter (Boyd Holbrook) and a street-wise saavy kid, TJ (Brian 'Astro' Bradley) in order to find these guys before they succeed at yet another murder.
Others to round out the cast are Olafur Darri Olafsson as James Loogan, an eye-witness, Sebastian Roche as Yuri Landau, Liana De Laurent as Yuri's wife, Mark Consuelos as Reuben, Eric Nelsen as Howie and Laura Birn as Leila Alvarez.
This was surprisingly well directed by Scott Frank ("Lookout" '07). I say this because considering this guy is a seasoned screenwriter, first of all, they usually don't delve into the director's chair, and secondly, when they do, the results are less than impressive. And when I realized that this guy only had one theatrical film to his credit, my appreciation for this director increased even more. It was also written by Frank ("Dead Again" '91, "Little Man Tate" '91, "Malice" '93, "Get Shorty" '95, Heaven's Prisoners" '96, "Out of Sight" '98, "Minority Report" '02, "Flight of the Phoenix" '04, "The Interpreter" '05, "The Lookout" '07, "Marley & Me" '08, "The Wolverine" '13) based on the novel by Lawrence Block. As stated prior, this guy is a seasoned screenwriter, and while this was written well and most things did connect as should happen out of a screenplay, there were areas where it seemed a bit choppy and a couple of places that were not clearly spelled out. But these areas certainly weren't enough to take away the grit and suspense that this guy was obviously attempting to convey. Even though Neeson was in a role that one certainly wouldn't be surprised-- remember he did "Non-Stop", "Taken" Taken 2" and "The Grey", he was still able to capture your attention in a way that made you riveted to your seat.
Even if your taste is in the crime mystery genre, one must pay a bit sharper attention to the different nuances that are intertwined in this, lest you become confused and end up missing parts of it. Don't get me wrong, this is not a bad film, it just needed a bit more polishing to really grab you by films' end.
Out of 4 Stars: 2.5 Rated: R 114mins.
As I mentioned in prior reviews, in this day and age, comedies are typically a better bet for quality writing and directing when presented in a dramedy (comedy/drama) format and "The Skeleton Twins" is no exception. Rare is it when a comedy is funny enough to hold its own without drama, music or the like to make it work. I'm not sure if this is a trend that comedies are going or not, but be sure that a good quality comedy is worth its weight in gold when a solid writer can produce one.
After ten years of estrangement, twins Maggie (Kristen Wiig) and Milo (Bill Hader) coincidentally cheat death on the same day-- Maggie getting ready to take a handful of pills when she receives a phone call from a hospital to let her know that her brother tried to commit suicide but is now doing OK. This prompts her to reunite with her brother and has him come home with her until he gets better. Home is the hometown in New York state where they were raised in which Maggie still resides. As they are now together and exchange what's going on in their respective lives-- Lance (Luke Wilson), husband of Maggie, and Maggie working on being pregnant as to start a family, Milo trying to make it as an actor in L.A., they end up confronting how their lives went so wrong. As the twins' reunion reinvigorates them both, they soon realize that the key to fixing their lives just may lie in fixing their relationship with each other.
Others to round out the cast are Ty Burrell as Rich, Boyd Holbrook as Billy, scuba diving instructor, Kathleen Rose Perkins as Carlie, Joanna Gleason as Judy, Maggie and Milo's mother, Adriane Lennox as Dr. Linda Essex and Paul Castro Jr. as Eric.
This was directed by newcomer to theatrical films, Craig Johnson ("True Adolescents" '09). He really was able to get these two actors to open up and let these 'odd' characteristics shine which ran the gambit--from silly to fun to explosive to showing poignancy. I believe this guy will be around for a while-- he's raw and gritty which are the right ingredients no matter what the genre is. Since Hollywood is in dire need for comedy writers, now more than ever, the writers, Mark Heyman ("Black Swan" '10) and Johnson ("True Adolescents" '09) would be a shoe in to write some smart comedies, especially since they can write both comedy and drama. It would be interesting to see either or both write an incredible comedy that we could really sink our teeth into. And since these guys are relatively new to the theatrical realm, they wouldn't have all the fear and intimidation that Hollywood can thrust on newbies. Wouldn't that be a refreshing change?!
If you like quirky with a dysfunctional bent, this is definitely the film for you. This is not the comedy that everyone will get into, but if you watch this and get into the quality--both Wiig and Hader give solid performances considering they are comedians, it will be a film that will leave you thinking even if the bittersweet ending isn't your cup of tea.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 93mins.
While comedies will always be my favorite genre, the combination of comedy and drama is usually carried out in a somewhat realistic way--taking people's problems, dysfunctions and issues and bringing them to a head where by film's end will hopefully teach one something. Case in point with "This Is Where I Leave You" takes you on this roller coaster ride frought with dysfunction amidst an obvious love for one another is what this troubled family is made of.
When their father passes away, four grown siblings, Judd, Wendy, Phillip and Paul Altman (Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, Adam Driver and Corey Stoll) respectively, bruised and banged up by their adult lives, are forced to return to their childhood home and live under the same roof together for seven days, along with their over-sharing, manipulative mother Hillary Altman (Jane Fonda) and an assortment of spouses, exes and might-have-beens. Confronting their history and the frayed states of their relationships among the people who know and love them best, they ultimately reconnect in hysterical and emotionally affecting ways amid the chaos, humor, heartache, dysfunction and redemption that only families can provide-- driving us insane even as they remind us of our truest, and often best, selves.
Others to round out the cast are Rose Byrne as Penny Moore, Kathryn Hahn as Annie Altman, Paul's wife, Connie Britton as Tracy Sullivan, Phillip's girlfriend, Timothy Olyphant as Horry Callen, Dax Shepard as Wade Beaufort, Judd's boss, Debra Monk as Linda Callen, Abigail Spencer as Quinn Altman, Judd's wife, Ben Schwartz as Rabbi Charles Grodner (aka Boner), Aaron Lazar as Barry Weissman as Wendy's husband and Cade Lappin as Cole.
This was effectively directed by the comedy veteran Shawn Levy ("Address Unknown" '97, "Big Fat Liar" '02, "Just Married" '03, "Cheaper By the Dozen" '03, "The Pink Panther" '06, "Night at the Museum" '06, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian" '09, "Date Night" '10, "Real Steel" '11, "Family Trap" (TV movie) '12, "The Internship" '13) and "Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb" is right around the corner, while still in post production will be released in December. I call this guy the director with a heart, because we seem to usually learn something from the films he directs--must have a lot to do with the writers he associates with. He doesn't typically do silly, over-the-top, toilet humor comedies which is a plus in my book. Please stay in business Shawn! This was uproariously written by Jonathan Tropper based on his novel. Trust me, this isn't perfect--there were a few places that were far-fetched even for this family, but suffice it to say, it goes into one dysfunctional issue to another. What makes this work is the fact when the chips are down, the family, with all its problems and pitfalls, still sticks together in spite of what's going on and Tropper made this honestly clear. Another film that had similarities to this, but still was able to hold its own was last year's amazing "August: Osage County". Siblings forced back to their childhood home because of their father's death, having to face their dysfunctional mother and each other's issues while trying to keep what's left of their sanity. That, as this, was solid writing.
The lesson here is that even though we have issues with our respective families, we can still experience love, acceptance and redemption because we are family and that, for reasons we cannot explain, is the key which is why families typically stick together.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: R 103mins.
In recent years we've seen a plethora of young adult oriented films, i.e. "Twilight Saga", "Hunger Games", "Divergent", etc, so when I saw the trailer of the upcoming "The Maze Runner", I thought it was going to be yet another teen perspective type of film that we've all seen much too often. Although I can see the youth angst in this, this does go deeper than the surface if you're willing to dig deep and be patient with this.
Thomas (Dylan O'Brien) wakes up in a freight elevator remembering nothing but his own name. As he's yanked up to the ground by several teen boys, he emerges in a world of about 60 of these teenage boys who have learned to survive in a completely enclosed environment, subsisting on their own agriculture and supplies. Apparently a new boy arrives every 30 days so as to add to this community. The original group has been in 'The Glade', as it's called, for two years, trying to find an escape through the maze that surrounds their living space. Some of the others can't help but think that since Thomas has arrived, things have not been the same causing fear and confusion in others such as Gally (Will Poulter) and Minho (Ki Hong Lee). The only ones that seem to listen to Thomas' thinking-outside-the-box mentality is Alby (Aml Ameen), Newt (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) and Chuck (Blake Cooper). After a point, a comatose girl, Teresa (Kaya Scodelario) arrives on the elevator with a strange note. And at this point, their world really begins to change. Will they survive the Maze and especially the nightmarish Grievers who inhabit the Maze in order to make their escape work?
Others to round out the cast are Dexter Darden as Frypan, Chris Sheffield as Ben, Patricia Clarkson as Ava Paige, Joe Adler as Zart, Alexander Flores as Winston, Jacob Latimore as Jeff and Randall D. Cunningham as Clint.
This was directed by relative newcomer, Wes Ball (Several Shorts). I was amazed, because I have seen this caliber of directing by seasoned veteran directors before, so if this is his first theatrical film, I am anxious to see more of this guy's work. This was written by Noah Oppenheim, Grant Pierce Myers and T.S. Nowlin based on James Dashner's novel. This was a decent script, except that there were several questions by film's end. However, fret not, for this is certainly left open-ended where they could simply continue on with the story so as to answer some of those important questions.
If this film does nothing else for you, it definitely supplies us with a look at the many different ways we, as a society, deal with issues when in a stressed situation. Such as Thomas having the ability to think outside the box through constant curiosity, Gally being satisfied with the way things are which basically stems from fear of change, Minho as a 'Runner' who is a fighter, Chuck who wants to please and help others, Newt who is knowledgeable, but knows something has to happen to get out of the Maze and others that are merely followers, are cases in point of the many individuals we know ourselves. This is more than a group of guys that need to escape a huge Maze.
Otherwise, the sets/models of this maze that were built were simply amazing in and of themselves. And the haunting sound effects just add to that otherworldly feel in which this film exudes.
This film, although not perfect, is a great way to escape into a world that you've never experienced before, and if this makes money, it will be another world you will experience is a continuation. Enjoy!
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG-13 113mins.
Inspirational films, especially based on a true story or ideal, certainly hold a special place in my heart. I believe the reason for this is the story is usually something we can learn from, all the while entertaining us as we go down that road with the characters involved. They're often wholesome so the entire family can view without the concern of something objective or graphic hitting you in the face. This is why films such as "Dolphin Tale 2" were created.
It has been several years, 2011 to be exact, since young Sawyer Nelson (Nathan Gamble) and the dedicated team at the Clearwater Water Marine Hospital, headed by Dr. Clay Haskett (Harry Connick Jr.), rescued Winter as we saw in "Dolphin Tale". With the help of Dr. Cameron McCarthy (Morgan Freeman), who developed a unique prosthetic tail for the injured dolphin, they were able to save her life. Yet their fight is not over. Winter's surrogate mother, the very elderly dolphin Panama, has passed away. Leaving Winter without the only poolmate she has ever known. However, the loss of Panama may have even greater repercussions for Winter, who, according to USDA regulations, cannot be housed alone, as dolphins' social behavior requires them to be paired with her before the team at Clearwater loses their beloved Winter to another aquarium.
Others to round out the cast are Ashley Judd as Lorraine Nelson, Sawyer's mom, Kris Kristofferson as Reed Haskett, Clay's dad, Cozi Zuehlsdorff as Hazel Haskett, Clay's daughter, Austin Stowell as Kyle Connellan, Austin Highsmith as Phoebe, a dolphin trainer, Tom Nowicki as Phillip J. Hordern, head of the board, Carlos Gomez as Dr. Aslan, Taylor Blackwell as Susie, a volunteer, Julia Jordan as Mandy, Bethany Hamilton as Herself, and Charles Martin Smith as George Hatton.
This was directed by an actor's director, Charles Martin Smith ("Trick or Treat" '86, "Boris and Natasha" (TV movie) '92, "Fifty/Fifty" '92, "Air Bud" '97, "Roughing It" (TV movie) '02, "The Snow Walker" '03, "Icon" (TV movie) '05, "Stone of Destiny" '08, "Dolphin Tale" '11). This guy has done a ton of acting way before he started directing, so he knows what it's like to walk in the moccasins of any actor. He even had a small role in this film as USDA inspector George Hatton. It was also written by Smith as well which was based on characters created by Karen Janszen and Noam Dromi. He must've consulted Janszen and Dromi, because there was a definite similarity in script and how it was laid out as that of the original "Dolphin Tale". When I saw my first trailer on this I thought that the trailer practically showed everything in the story, however after watching it, I was wrong. There was much more to it than met the eye. As the film dictates, it was based on true events, meaning that the story was true, but some of the details either were changed or modified to accommodate the script. Apparently, when a cast party was going on as a wrap on principle photography on "Dolphin Tale", someone was alerted that a dolphin was in trouble and needed help, which is how they were able to make a sequel and have it based on a true incidence. Timing is everything. The underwater cinematography was created by the incomparable Peter Zuccarini ("Blue" '09, "Piranha 3D" '10, "127 Hours" '10, "Act of Valor" '12, "Life of Pi" '12, "Pain & Gain" '13, "Divergent" '14, and the upcoming "Jurassic World" '15) plus tons of others. He's one of a small handful of underwater photographers that are truly artists under the sea as with this film. His photography in this was absolutely breathtaking as one could ascertain.
This was not an Academy Award caliber film, however it was certainly a far better movie than I would've given credit to given the trailer. Trust me, the trailer on this doesn't sell it, and as you watch this, you will see what I mean.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG 107mins.
The genre of crime drama has certainly been around since year one as it's been a mainstay for film fodder for juicy plots and meaty roles for actors. I could list an array of films that embody this genre, but suffice it to say, the list would be endless ,so let's skip that. We've seen so many of these films that finding new and original ideas can and has been difficult. In viewing "The Drop" this took a premise that has been done before, but goes into more depth of its seedy underbelly world of 'dirty money'.
This is a crime drama that chronicles lonely, withdrawn bartender Bob Saginowski (Tom Hardy) through a covert scheme of funneling cash to local gangsters-- 'money drops' in the underworld of Brooklyn bars. Under the heavy hand of his employer and cousin Marv (James Gandolfini), Bob finds himself at the center of a robbery gone awry and entwined in an investigation that digs deep into the neighborhood's past.
There is a subplot whereas Bob inadvertently finds a hurt dog, whom he later names Rocco, thrown in a trash can for dead. He enlists help from the owner of the house, Nadia (Noomi Rapace) to advise him what he should do. You will find this is an integral part of the plot as the two plots start interweaving and connecting in ways that will surprise.
Others to round out the cast are Matthias Schoenaerts as Eric Deeds, John Ortiz as Detective Torres, Elizabeth Rodriguez as Detective Romsey, Michael Aronov as Chovka, Michael Esper as Rardy, Ann Dowd as Dottie, Marv's older sister, James Frecheville as Fitz, Morgan Spector as Andre, Tobias Segal as Briele, Chris Sullivan as Jimmy and Patricia Squire as Millie.
Considering this guy has only one other theatrical film credit to his name, director Michael R. Roskam ("Bullhead" '11) effectively helmed this story. certainly Hardy has played roles similar to this before, however the steely looks, aloofness, austerity that Hardy displayed was carried out well I feel to the credit of this director. He will undoubtedly receive more film work. It was written by Dennis Lehane ("Mystic River" (novel) '03, "Gone Baby Gone" (novel) '07, "Shutter Island" (novel) '10) based on his story "Animal Rescue". As I've mentioned in other reviews, novelists aren't necessarily screenwriters, and with this film it rings true. Now, this doesn't mean that it was poorly done in that it was well written, but there were too many places in story that were clearly not answered--ones that needed answers. To name these places would give an integral part of the plot away, suffice it to say, it will leave you asking questions by the film's end.
The main reason for seeing this is for the consummate performances of Hardy, Rapace, Schoenaerts, and especially the now late Gandolfini which makes and has made his roles look effortless. Trust me, it's difficult to feel sorry for anyone in this with the exception of Nadia and the dog, Rocco, but as you are very patient with this script, you will then know why.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: R 106mins.
As we're winding down toward the end of the summer movie season, we have in the offing, yet another biopic which, as I've mentioned before, truth can be more fascinating and entertaining than fiction. What is interesting about "The Last of Robin Hood" is that, being based on an aspect of movie star, Errol Flynn, it is just difficult to believe that Hollywood hadn't produced a biopic on this icon years ago considering his sketchy past at best.
This is the true story of Beverly Aadland (Dakota Fanning), teen starlet who became the last girlfriend of legendary swashbuckler Errol Flynn (Kevin Kline). In 1957 two years before Flynn's subsequent death, Beverly was working at Warner Brothers Studios with a fake birth certificate indicating she was 18 and in actuality, was only 15-- when she encountered the former matinee icon. After a bumpy start, the two undertook a relationship that was eventually embraced by Beverly's Hollywood mom, Florence (Susan Sarandon) who simply turned the other cheek lest Flynn might drop Beverly and they would be left with nothing. The affair took the three of them from L.A. to New York to Africa, then to Cuba where Flynn pitched in with the rebels to make a pro-Castro propaganda movie starring Beverly. It all came crashing to an end in Vancouver, however, when Flynn died in Beverly's arms, causing an avalanche of publicity; Florence finally achieved the attention she sought in the form of tabloid notoriety but the chaos drove Beverly to the edge of sanity. This is a poignant but dark and oddly funny coming-of-age film about the desire of fame and what price does one pay to achieve it.
Others to round out the cast are Matt Kane as Ronnie Shedlo, Flynn's assistant, Patrick St. Esprit as Herb Aadland, Florence's husband, Bryan Batt as Orry Kelly, Flynn's costume designer, Max Casella as Stanley Kubrick, Ric Reitz as Melvin Belli, Flynn's attorney, Judd Lormand as Reporter, Jason Davis as Tedd Thomey, Jane McNeil as Cynthia Gould, Joe Knezevich as John Ireland, Ben Winchell as Jack and Sean Flynn as Grip (who is actually a grandson of Errol Flynn).
This was both written and directed by Richard Glatzer ("Grief" '93, "The Fluffer" '01, "Quinceanera" '06, Still Alice" '14) and Wash Westmoreland ("The Fluffer" '01, "Gay Republicans" (TV movie documentary) '04, "Quinceanera" '06, "Still Alice" '14). Obviously these guys work a lot together (same films and in the writing/directing chair as well), and when two artists work so well together, why split when they are assuredly having fun and creating at the same time? The writing starts at Flynn's death in 1959 and does a flashback two years prior of how he met his last girlfriend, Beverly Aadland. The film then works its way forward using a narrative throughout only to bring us to that imminent death and beyond. The script flowed well with just a bit of choppiness, however not enough to take away from the impact they were attempting to achieve. The acting was spot on by all three of these actors, but these characters were incredibly difficult to feel sorry for or to empathize with. The issues just flowed like water--so much so that the only ones you felt sorry for at all were the other people that the three had any consistent contact with. Again, fine writing and acting.
If you're into biopics or this era of the movie industry, you will revel, but even if you're only looking for fine acting, look no further, this film gives it to you in spades.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 90mins.
We've all seen films based on a person or a true story, and we've equally seen movies that are purely fictitious. When I viewed "The Identical", it was almost like watching a combination of both. Even though you know it is a fictional story, the fact that the leading character resembles Elvis so much gives that 'true story' feel to it. The similarities are vast: the musical talent, coming from religious backgrounds and coming from a similar time period give that same look, however this is where the similarities end.
In 1936, William and Helen Hemsley (Brian Geraghty and Amanda Crew) welcome identical twin boys into the world. However their joy is quickly hammered by a sobering realization; how could they give these children any kind of a life beyond the desperate poverty that haunted many families in the midst of the Great Depression? When evangelist Reese Wade (Ray Liotta) reveals that he and his wife Louise (Ashley Judd) cannot have children, William feels the Lord's prompting to give them one of the infant boys. Both brothers are born with passion, drive and awesome musical talent, but take very separate yet converging paths. Drexel Hemsley (Blake Rayne) rises like a comet and changes the music world forever. His adopted brother, Ryan Wade (also played by Blake Rayne) struggles to find the purpose for his life. All the way into manhood he wrestles with pleasing Pastor Wade, his loving but controlling father, who is convinced that Ryan is called to go into the ministry. Ryan is encouraged by his loving and supportive wife Jenny (Erin Cottrell) and lifelong friends Dino and Avi (Seth Green and Joe Pantoliano) to follow his musical dreams. And oh, can he sing, just like his world famous twin! The film spans five decades from the 1930's through the 1970's and is about the restoration and reconciliation of a family torn apart by culture, creed and tradition.
Others to round out the cast are Waylon Payne as Tony Nash, Danny Woodburn as Damon, Chris Mulkey as Older William Hemsley and Noah Urrea as 9-year old Ryan Wade.
This was amazingly well directed by newcomer to films, Dustin Marcellino which, this being his first film, I can only pause with wonder what kind of filmmaker he will be in the next five years or less. The emotion, pathos and pacing of these actors were as well delineated as any seasoned director. It was written by Howard Klausner based on a story by Wade Cummins. The story starts in 1972 and then basically back-flashes to the 1930's and slowly brings us up to where the film started and then goes even beyond that point. This is getting and has been a popular format in which to write a film for a while, which gives it a certain uniqueness to grab the audience and hold on to them. Other than a few scenes coming across a bit stagy, this was a captivating premise that will talk to many individuals out there. This is a story where love, hope and redemption reign and with that, will speak to all generations.
In a world where there are so many cold, crass, violent-ridden, sex-driven films out there, it is a refreshing change to see a film where love, wholesomeness, and simplicity can be turned around and be made to look and be entertaining all the while teaching a something worthwhile.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG 107mins.
In recent past we've seen several Spanish or Spanish themed films which are becoming popularized in a culture that is comprised of a huge melting pot. Films such as "Cesar Chavez", "Instructions Not Included", and "Gloria" have been frothed with solid stories, acting and with great messages. To add to that ever growing list is "Cantiflas".
This is the true untold story of Mexico's greatest and most beloved comedy film star of all time-- Mario 'Cantiflas' Moreno (Oscar Jaenada). The film starts in 1955 with the introduction of director Michael Todd (Michael Imperoli) pitching his new film, "Around the World in Eighty Days" to skeptical studio execs to no avail. Todd mentions that he wants to use an international cast of which he wants Moreno aka Cantiflas in it. Then the film pulls back to 1931, whereas we see the humble origins of Cantiflas as he tries to make it in the stage arena. So the film goes back and forth from 1955 to subsequent later years representing Cantiflas' slow incline toward notoriety. He finally woos and proposes marriage to his girlfriend, Vitola (Diana Lein) and she accepts. So as they are married and he rises in fame, it then brings us to the eventual meeting of Todd and Cantiflas to discuss the film. What makes this guy a real success is the ability to improvise on his feet and win audiences over one joke at a time. Relive the laughter that has charmed generations.
Others to round out the cast are Ilse Salas as Valentina Ivanova, Barbara Mori as Elizabeth Taylor, Ana Layevska as Miroslava Stern, Adal Ramones as Mantequilla, Cassandra Ciangherotti as Estela Pagola, Jose Carlos Montes as Maurice, Otto Sirgo as Andres Soler, Julian Sedgwick as Charlie Chaplin, Andres Montiel as Agustin Isunza and Luis Gerardo Mendez as Estanislao Shilinsky.
This was amazingly well directed by Sebastian del Amo ("El fantastico mundo de Juan Orol" '12). What makes this guy's direction that much more effective is the way he was able to achieve the different facial looks, movements and expressions one would expect coming from a certain era. It was well written by Edui Tijerina and del Amo in that going from the 1950's to the 1930's and back again and be able to harness that continuity was spot on. I don't know whether it's me, but these actor's, when speaking Spanish spoke very quickly so one had to read very quick lest you might miss a line or two, otherwise well done. When they were in L.A., English was the spoken language, but when they were in Mexico, it was Spanish which made it more realistic.
The costumes, sets, photography and music added so much effectiveness to this story and played well off each other, I have to say kudos to these artists. Last, but certainly not least, Jaenada as Cantiflas was perfect casting. He was able to show us many different facets, both light and dark, of this brilliant artist that he may be looking at a possible nod come Oscar time.
As biopics go, this has to be one of the best-- a rock-solid showcase of the most beloved funny man affectionately called Cantiflas.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 104mins.
Recently the film "The Wizard of Oz" was re-released in an IMAX/3D version celebrating 74 years since its release in 1939. It was only re-released for a very limited run and I was able to view it and felt amazed that it was that old. Well, "Ghostbusters" has now been re-released for a week run celebrating 30 years since its release in 1984. This truly isn't as ancient as Oz, but, is it me, or is it difficult to phathom that it has been 30 years?
Three odd-ball scientists, Dr. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Dr. Raymond Stantz(Dan Aykroyd) and Dr. Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) get kicked out of their cushy positions at a New York City university where they studied parapsychology. They decide to set up shop in an old firehouse and go into business for themselves as Ghostbusters, trapping pesky ghosts, spirits, haunts and poltergeists for money. They wisecrack their way through the city and finally land a big job from a tenant, Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) claiming there are ghosts in her apartment. This, in turn, leads to something big and they stumble upon a gateway to another dimension, one that will release untold evil upon the city. The Ghostbusters are then called on to save the Big Apple.
Others to round out the cast are Rick Moranis as Louis Tully, a nerdy neighbor of Dana's, Annie Potts as Janine Melnitz, the Ghostbusters' secretary, William Atherton as Walter Peck, a rep from the EPA, Ernie Hudson as Winston Zeddmore, assisting the Ghostbusters and David Margulies as Mayor.
This was directed with rollicking good fun by veteran Ivan Reitman ("Meatballs" '79, "Stripes" '81, "Twins" '88, "Ghostbusters II" '89, "Kindergarten Cop" '90, "Dave" '93, "Junior" '94, "Six Days Seven Nights" '98, "My Super Ex-Girlfriend" '06, "No Strings Attached" '11, "Draft Day" '14) plus others. Obviously Reitman works well with Murray since he used Murray early on in his career, so when he was casting for this, one of the scientists just had to be Murray, and proved that it was the right choice. This guy knows comedy, but he can work in a more subtle type comedy as well, such as "Draft Day" which was incredibly solid. This was written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis with input from Rick Moranis even though he wasn't credited. The best thing about the writing is the timing and continuity. For being a wacky comedy, this just flowed well from one scene to the next.
I gotta say, 30 years have not been kind to these amazing comedians, because one can see Murray and Aykroyd in recent films, and they don't even look like the same people after watching this. It is amazing what three decades can do to someone.
As aforementioned, this is only out for a week re-release, so if you want to see this-- again, then you'll have to put something else on the back burner lest you miss this funny little slice of the 1980's that you can totally escape into.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 105mins.
Vigilante films are very popular especially in this day and age where, so much of the time, the victim of a crime seems to get less and less justice, and the criminal gets away with 'murder'--quite literally in some cases. So with a populace more and more up in arms with the 'status quo', it's no wonder how films like "The Equalizer" would be more popular today than ever. 
