For some reason, films that center around chefs and cooking have always intrigued me-- surely it can't be that I'm a cook or can even cook, but it's probably because of the challenge they go through to create a masterpiece through certain trials that interests me. So when I saw my first trailer for "Burnt", I was hooked. And this was no less intriguing than that of "The Hundred-Foot Journey" which was amazing.
Chef Adam Jones (Bradley Cooper) had it all-- and lost it through drugs and a subsequent bad attitude. After a three-year cleanup, the two-star Michelin rockstar with the bad habits to match returns to London. The former enfant terrible of the Paris restaurant scene did everything different every time out, and only ever cared about the thrill of creating explosions of taste. To land his own kitchen and that third elusive Michelin star though, he'll need the best of the best on his side, including maître 'D Tony (Daniel Bruhl) and the beautiful chef Helene (Sienna Miller). With everything at stake, will Adam be able to pull this off considering his past and this being an extremely stressful demanding field?
Others to round out the cast are Riccardo Scamarcio as Max, Omar Sy as Michel, Sam Keeley as David, Henry Goodman as Conti, Matthew Rhys as Reece, a rival chef, Stephen Campbell Moore as Jack, Uma Thurman as Simone Forth, Emma Thompson as Dr. Rosshilde, Alicia Vikander as Anna Marie, and Lexi Benbow-Hart as Lily.
This was meticulously and painstakingly directed by John Wells ("The Company Men" '10, "August: Osage County" '13) plus a ton of TV. One can tell this guy is a consummate filmmaker considering this is only his third theatrical film on the books and all his films have such a high level of direction. It usually takes a director at least 6-7 films to be recognized as well as this guy has been. His timing and pacing with these fine actors is simply spot on. This is equally well written by veteran Steven Knight ("Dirty Pretty Things" '02, "Eastern Promises" '07, "Closed Circuit" '13, "Locke" '13, "The Hundred-Foot Journey" '14)"Pawn Sacrifice" '15) based on a story by Michael Kalesniko. This writer had me sold on his ability when I saw the film, "Locke". This film basically starred--on camera, one actor (Tom Hardy), while driving his car seeing his life unravel before your eyes because of different information he was receiving from different people via his speaker phone. This was not only an acting feat for Hardy, but for writer Knight as well, because it is extremely difficult to capture an audience's attention with really only one actor on film, and this did in spades. This film centered around one character, Adam (Bradley), albeit with other actors in the film, but was majorly about this particular chef, and he was able to pull this off as well. This was certainly one of Bradley's better efforts (and he's a great actor), that he might be in consideration come Oscar time.
For the pure artistic craft--acting, writing, directing, this needs to be seen, but if you're like me, and can get into the restaurant/chef type film, this entertainment factor will only be that proverbial cherry on top.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: R 101min.
As I've mentioned in other reviews, within the last decade, we've seen an upsurge on the spiritual type films, probably because of the problems that we are faced with on a daily basis: divorce, financial downfall, no jobs, debt, sicknesses, etc. So it should be no surprise that films like "Fireproof", "Courageous", God's Not Dead", "Soul Surfer" and the most recent "War Room" are as popular as they are. So Hollywood is jumping on that bandwagon again with the likes of "Woodlawn".
In 1973, a spiritual awakening captures not only the hearts of this country through the Jesus Movement, but also the hearts of the Woodlawn High School Football team. Led by their coach Tandy Geralds (Nic Bishop) and assistant coach Mike Morton (Brando Eaton) along with their sports chaplain Hank (Sean Astin), and fueled by the team's dedication to love and unity in a school filled with racism and hate, the team makes an astounding run at the playoffs, leading to the largest attended high school football game ever played in the torn city of Birmingham, Alabama, and the rise of its first African American superstar--Tony Nathan (Caleb Castille). With this gift as a football player, Tony must learn to embrace his talent and his faith as he battles racial tensions on and off the field.
Others to round out the cast are C. Thomas Howell as Coach George "Shorty" White, the rival coach of Woodlawn, Jon Voight as Coach Paul Bryant, a visiting 'scouting' coach, Virginia Williams as Debbie, Sherri Shepherd as Momma Nathan, Joy Brunson as Johnnie, girlfriend of Tony's, Blake Burgess as Allyson, Marcus Henderson as Reggie Greene, Richard Kohnke as Jet Rutledge and DeVon Franklin as Preacher.
Obviously this is a football themed film which was based on a true story. I kind of akin this as a spiritual "Rudy" '93, "Clash of the Titans" '10 or even "When the Game Stands Tall" '14, even though the latter was basically an inspirational film. This was carefully and meticulously directed by the Erwin Brothers (Andrew and Jon) ("Alumni" '09 (TV movie), "Mom's Night Out" '14) plus TV. These guys certainly aren't veteran filmmakers, but given more work, they could be the next Kendrick Brothers. The actors seemed genuine and real in this, which is even more important considering the message in which they are attempting to convey to their audience. It was written by Jon Erwin and Quinton Peeples, and even though the guys don't have a ton of experience, there was certainly enough to get their different points across. Interesting how they were able to intertwine the message of knowing Jesus in one's life to the problems of racism, prejudice, social climbing, and being good at what you're at and was able to make cohesive all these points in one's life. This would be a tough task for any veteran writer in the biz. It is interesting that all this, in fact, transpired was even based on a true story. This, like with other films, makes for great human interest.
This film certainly has something for everyone, whether you be a believer in Christ or not. I feel we all have problems in this world, and to simply shove them under the carpet hoping they'll go away is just not practical or rational. Instead, if these films have any merit at all, it is to get us to rethink our issues so maybe we can see that there are other paths we can take than just shoving those issues under that proverbial carpet.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 123mins.
The horror film genre is as old as films themselves, so when you bring in the gothic part of the horror genre, although it's not a new slant on the horror genre, but a bit newer than the traditional horror film. If you go back to 1963's "The Haunting" and its subsequent remake of the same name in 1999, we might have something close to what we have in the offing, "Crimson Peak".
In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author, Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska) is torn between love for her childhood friend, Dr. Alan McMichael (Charlie Hunnam) and the temptation of a mysterious outsider, Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston) trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds--and remembers.
So Edith decides to go to England with Thomas to a massive, cold mansion atop a mountain of blood-red clay to live along with Thomas' even more secretive sister, Lucille Sharpe (Jessica Chastain). This house is place filled secrets that will haunt Edith forever. Between Desire and darkness, between mystery and madness, lies the truth behind Crimson Peak.
Others to round out the cast are Jim Beaver as Carter Cushing, Edith's protective father, Burn Gorman as Holly, Leslie Hope as Mrs. McMichael, Doug Jones as Edith's mother, Lady Sharpe, Jonathan Hyde as Ogilvie, Bruce Gray as Ferguson, Emily Coutts as Eunice and Alec Stockwell as Finlay.
This was eerily and hauntingly directed by the incomparable Guillermo del Toro ("Cronos" '93, "Mimic" '97, "The Devil's Backbone" '01, "Blade II" '02, "Hellboy" '04, "Pan's Labyrinth" '06, "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" '08, "Pacific Rim" '13). If anyone has had any influence on my giving a horror film a chance, it is that of del Toro. The horror genre has never been one of my favorites, but every time I see one of his, it gives me a shot in the arm that I normally wouldn't have through another filmmaker. He brings that quirkiness, eeriness, that twist in the formation of certain characters. His "Pan's Labyrinth" has got to be one of my favorites of his. This was equally well written by del Toro and Matthew Robbins. Both are veteran screenwriters and it shows in spades here. There were a couple of very small areas of slowness, but otherwise this storyline and character development simply rocked! The cast of Chastain, Wasikowska, Hiddleston and Hunnam were solid and played off well from each other. del Toro truly knows how to showcase what a real horror story is supposed to act and look like. The horror flicks today are simply slash and dash fare that ends up looking dumb and contrived, but this was a classic horror film that used to be the common way of creating them...until now. Hopefully this will start a trend. Take note Hollywood.
Whether you're into horror or not, if the story doesn't grab you, the intensely fine directing and writing will. This is del Toro probably at his best, although "Pan's Labyrinth" would be a tough act to follow.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 119mins.
Well, it's been a number of days since I've seen a film considering I had a bi-lateral inguinal hernia repair done. This is my first day back to the cineplex, so suffice it to say, it was a tenuous trip, however, I am healing nicely.
Interesting that with all the people to write about, Hollywood decides to write yet another film on the computer guru known as "Steve Jobs". Whereas the 2013 version "Jobs" with Ashton Kutcher in the title role was more about how he actually got started and the process therein, this version centered more on his three product launches culminating with his 1998 introduction of iMac.
This incisive biological drama explores the genius and shortcomings of computing giant guru Steve Jobs (Michael Fassbender) through not only the lens of the three product launches, but through the eyes of long-suffering close assistant, Joanna Hoffman (Kate Winslet), associate, Andy Hertzfeld (Michael Stuhlbarg), co-founder Steve Wozniak (Seth Rogan) and CEO John Sculley (Jeff Daniels). This is set backstage at three different product launches and intertwined amongst all this, he must deal with his long-standing girlfriend, Chrisann Brennan (Katherine Waterston) and the daughter, Lisa whom he claimed repeatedly was not his child. As his family life continues to deteriorate, this wraps up the brunt of his career with the 1998 unveiling of the iMac.
Others to round out the cast are Perla Hanley-Jardine as Lisa Brennan (19), Ripley Sobo as Lisa Brennan (9), Makenzie Moss as Lisa Brennan (5), Sarah Snook as Andrea Cunningham, John Ortiz as Joel Pforzheimer, Adam Shapiro as Avie Tevanian, John Steen as Mike Markula and Stan Roth as George Coates.
This was incredibly well directed by the very quirky and versatile Danny Boyle ("Scout" (TV movie) '87, "Monkeys" (TV movie) '89, "Trainspotting" '96, "Slumdog Millionaire" '08, "127 Hours" '10, "Trance" '13) plus others. The nuances he presents with his characters in each of his films are always so subtle, but definitely has his stamp on them. While the subject matter can change incredibly so, the character makeup of his characters are usually to always a different slant on the norm, such as the characterization of Kutcher's Jobs in "Jobs" was amazingly different than that of Fassbender's characterization in this version, even though they were playing the same person. This was equally written well by veteran screenwriter Aaron Sorkin ("A Few Good Men", "Moneyball"). This was well thought out, cohesive and entertaining rolled up into one, and other than a couple of very small places of slowness, this script soared and kept you glued, although Fassbender and Winslet's performances didn't hurt. These two are consummate actors and both could receive nods come Oscar time.
If one is into storyline content, the previous "Jobs" would fit the bill, but if you're into a finely crafted film, i.e. directing, writing and acting, this would definitely be the better option. Trust me, whenever a film can have filmmakers and actors as these any time in that same film, one can't go wrong in perhaps coming to that realization of this being worth the price of admission and then some.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 122mins.
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Fall is in the air. We know this, because not only do we start seeing films that could be Oscar contenders, but we have others that lend to this time of year, what with Halloween on the rise. At this time of year what would be a better film for that Halloween feel than that of "Goosebumps"? The name alone exudes the very feel of this season.
Upset about moving from New York to the small town of Madison, Delaware, teenager Zach (Dylan Minnette) finds a silver lining when he meets a beautiful girl, Hannah (Odeya Rush), living right next door. But every silver lining has a cloud, and Zach's comes when he learns that Hannah has a mysterious dad who is revealed to be R.L.Stine (Jack Black), the author of the bestselling Goosebumps series. It turns out that there is a reason why Stine is so strange... he is a prisoner of his own imagination-- the monsters that his books made famous are real, and Stine protects his readers by keeping them locked up in their respective books. When Zach unintentionally unleashes the monsters from their manuscripts and they begin to terrorize the town, it's suddenly up to Stine, Zach, Hannah and Zach's friend Champ (Ryan Lee) to get all of them back in the books where they belong.
Others to round out the cast are Amy Ryan as Gale Cooper, Zach's mom, Jillian Bell as Lorraine, sister of Gale's, Ken Marino as Coach Carr, Halston Sage as Taylor, Steven Krueger as Davidson, Keith Arthur Bolden as Principal Garrison, Amanda Lund as Officer Brooks, Timothy Simons as Officer Stevens and Karan Soni as Mr. Rooney.
Apparently these Goosebumps series books have been quite popular--I'm personally not too familiar with them, but as soon as I saw my first trailer of this film, I was intrigued with the premise of it. It has a kind of Indiana Jones feel to it, but on a kid's level. This was whimsically and deftly directed by Rob Letterman ("Shark Tale" '04, "Monsters vs. Aliens" '09, "Gulliver's Travels" '10). Certainly Letterman is not unfamiliar to this type of film, hence his resume. What with all the animation with live action in this flick, this was not a stretch for this guy. I can appreciate sticking with what one knows, but sometimes it pays to go out on that limb and try something a bit different. He's even used Black in another film with the same feel--"Gulliver's Travels". It was effectively written by seasoned writer Darren Lemke based on a story by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski which is based on the "Goosebumps" books by R.L. Stine. It's not a screenplay that is Hollywood doesn't know-- kids find something that's bizarre, let others know, they don't believe them until it's too late and then find a way to solve the problem. But what makes this stand out a bit more is the fact that these 'characters' escape from their books and must be put back before all hell breaks loose--the premise if you will. The visual effects and animation predominantly created by Sony Pictures Animation and MPC (Moving Picture Company) were obviously seamless. They were a bit over-the-top, but considering this was partially animated, more forgiveness has to be handed out. And Jack Black was simply a hoot in this given his animated expressions he's known for in his comedies.
This is certainly a great film for one and all-- a wonderful family film that all can sit back with popcorn in hand and have so much fun with this. It's rollicking, adventurous, colorful, and funny all in an entertaining format. Enjoy!
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 103mins.
The last century brought us much turmoil in so many directions: two World Wars, AIDS , breast cancer and other hideous diseases, drugs out of control, divorce rates soaring, the Cuban Missile crisis, just to mention a handful. As we delve into different films based on true stories or events, we sometimes learn more about them than we knew before, as I believe we did with "Bridge of Spies". This story about a negotiation was something not overly publicized, by truly needed to be told.
In this historical dramatic account set during the Cold War, a Brooklyn attorney, James B. Donovan (Tom Hanks) is offered the task by his employer, Thomas Watters Jr. (Alan Alda) with the job of negotiating a prisoner exchange between an American U-2 pilot, Francis Gary Powers (Austin Stowell) who was shot down over the USSR territory and an accused Soviet spy, Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance) serving a newly 45-year sentence for espionage against the U.S.
With mounting tensions in this country's fear of the Soviets and the surmounting expectations of a threat of WWIII, Donovan and his family including his wife, Mary (Amy Ryan) must endure prejudice from all perspectives for James' representation of an alleged Soviet spy. With Donovan running into pitfalls both here and in Germany, where the negotiations were to be held, not only Donovan's problems with the Soviet negotiator, Hoffman (Scott Shepherd) are strained, but here as well with his own people.
Others to round out the cast are Sebastian Koch as Wolfgang Vogel, Billy Magnussen as Doug Forrester, Donovan's assistant, Eve Hewson as Carol Donovan, James and Mary oldest child, Jesse Plemons as Joe Murphy, Will Rogers as Frederic Pryor, Peter McRobbie as Allen Dulles, Dakin Matthews as Judge Byers, Michael Gaston as Agent Williams, Edward James Hyland as Justice Warren, and Jillian Lebling and Noah Schnapp as Peggy and Roger, the Donovan's other children respectively.
This was effortlessly directed by Steven Spielberg ("Jaws" '75, "Raiders of the Lost Ark" '81, "The Color Purple" '85, "Jurassic Park" '93, "Schindler's List" '93, "Saving Private Ryan" '98, "Minority Report" '02, "The Terminal" '04, "Munich" '05, "War Horse" '11, "Lincoln" '12) plus many more too numerous to list. This is, yet again, another teaming of Spielberg and Hanks which combined is simply pure genius. These consummate pros work incredibly well together that it usually looks like you're watching someone live than act, which is an equal ingredient of directing and acting. This was equally well written by Matt Charman, Ethan Coen and Joel Coen. Even though the Coen Brothers have written many great films: "Fargo", "The Big Lebowski", "Burn After Reading", "Raising Arizona", this was a bit different in that it didn't have that quirkiness to it that they are best known for. The surprise here was with Matt Charman having only TV mini-series credits to his name. He, along with the Coen Brothers did an outstanding execution of this script. And this will certainly lend credence to Charman's talent in future feature films. And with the talents of cinematographer, Janusz Kaminski (Spielberg's photographer), and editor, Michael Kahn, ace, which Spielberg has used more than once, how could this film go wrong. The only missing ingredient was that of John Williams, who normally would compose all of Spielberg's films, however Thomas Newman created a great score.
This simply has it all: great direction, writing, acting--both Hanks and Rylance could be up for possible Oscar nods, with an awesome true story which makes great fodder for any screenwriter. One will learn something all the while being entertained by artistic craft, and isn't this the hallmark of any great caliber of film?
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 141mins.
As problems and personal tragedies increase at such an alarming rate these days, so, to we see them reflected at the multiplex. Anywhere from terminal illnesses, to businesses going under and anywhere in between... we see it all. Remember when many unfortunate souls were losing their homes back in 2008 and '09 in the droves? Well, "99 Homes" will certainly hit many a nerve as this expose of corruption and deceit will truly rock anyone at the core even if it needs to be exposed for all to see.
Around the world everyone knows that honest hard work gets you nowhere. In sunny Orlando, Florida, construction worker Dennis Nash (Andrew Garfield) learns this the hard way when he loses his job and is subsequently evicted from his home by a charismatic, gun-toting real-estate broker, Rick Carver (Michael Shannon). Humiliated and homeless, Nash has no choice but to move his mom, Lynn (Laura Dern) and nine-year old son, Connor (Noah Lomax) into a shabby and dangerous motel. All is lost. Until an unexpected opportunity arises for Nash to strike a deal with the devil--if you will. He begins working for Carver in a desperate attempt to get his family home back.
Carver seduces Nash into a risky world of scamming and stealing from the banks and the government; he teaches Nash how the rich get richer. Living a double life, Nash hides his new boss and job from his family. He rises fast and makes real money; he dreams bigger. But there is a cost. The devil never gives one something for nothing. On Carver's orders, Nash must evict honest families from their homes--just as it happened to him. Nash's conscience starts tearing him apart...but his son needs a home. In a dramatic high stakes climax, with a 1,000 home deal on the line, Nash will have to choose between destroying an honest man for the ultimate win or risking it all by going against Carver and finding redemption.
Others to round out the cast are Tim Guinee as Frank Green, Clancy Brown as Mr. Freeman, Nicole Barre as Nicole Carver, Rick's wife, J.D. Evermore as Mr. Tanner, Yvonne Landry as Frank's neighbor, Ann Mahoney as Mrs. Tanner, Judd Lormand as Mr. Hester and Cullen Moss as Bill.
This was directed with such grit in climatic intensity by Ramin Bahrani ("Strangers" 2000, "Man Push Cart" '05, "Chop Shop" '07, "Goodbye Solo" '08, "At Any Price" '12) plus TV. The way this filmmaker was able to bring Garfield through these stages of getting swayed into Carver's world was subtly done, but the impact was evident. And even though one would be prepared to 'boo' Shannon's Carver role before they entered the theater, once this story unfolded, you were almost feeling sorry for this man, all the while having to tell yourself that this guy is nothing more than a scam artist. This is not only the mark of good direction, but of talented writing as well. It was written by Bahrani and Amir Naderi, based on a story by Bahrani and Bahareh Azimi. The relationship between Carver and Nash was tense, to put it mildly, but both were willing to look beyond that for financial means--Carver's greed and Nash's financial desperation. At the end of the day, Nash was becoming just like Carver--just nicer about it, and the turmoil in which he was putting himself through was insurmounting by the day. The subtlety was amazing, because, at times, you couldn't decide who's side you were on. Shannon is a consummate actor, as he's proven time and again, but it was Garfield that actually surprised me here. The subtlety of his transformation of this angry man losing his family home to such a con artist, and through desperation is willing to work with this guy in order to make enough money to buy his house back, to getting caught up in the lying, making real money. It was amazing. Kudos to both these fine actors as well as the supporting cast.
This is not exactly a warm and fuzzy feeling film that one can grab a popcorn and dig right in. Instead, this is more of a character study/cat and mouse game to see whose going to hold out. So as far as craft is concerned, this is a great study, but for the entertainment factor, save that for another film.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: R 112mins.
How many incarnations have we seen of the Peter Pan character? Let me count the ways: There's "Peter Pan" '24, "Peter Pan" 53 (animated), "Hook" '91, "Peter Pan" '03, "Finding Neverland" '04, plus scores of TV specials. So it was certainly no surprise that we have in our midst, "Pan" to continue that tradition.
Peter (Levi Miller) is a mischievous 12-year-old boy with an irrepressible rebellious streak, however in the WWII bleak London orphanage where he has lived his whole life, those qualities do not exactly fly well with the nuns that run it.
As Peter is whisked away from the orphanage to an enchanted land called Neverland to battle the fearsome pirate leader Blackbeard (Hugh Jackman), with the help of the warrior woman Tiger Lily (Rooney Mara) and Hook (Garrett Hedlund), he comes to realize his true destiny as the legend Peter Pan.
This incarnation being the beginnings of this character, it also gives us a glimpse of the beginnings of the likes of Hook, Smee and Tiger Lily, which is important in that it gives us a point of reference to hinge on so we know a bit more of where these different characters come from, as with other film's beginnings or origins.
Others to round out the cast are Adeel Akhtar as Sam 'Smee' Smiegel, Nonso Anozie as Bishop, Amanda Seyfried as Mary, Peter's mother, Kathy Burke as Mother Barnabas, Lewis MacDougall as Nibs, Cara Delevingne as Mermaids, Tae-joo Na as Kwahu, Jack Charles as Chief, Bronson Webb as Steps, Mike Shepherd as Fernley Trebilcock and Brian Bovell as Long John Standing.
This was tastefully and whimsically directed by Joe Wright ("Pride & Prejudice" '05, "Atonement" '07, "The Soloist" '09, "Hanna" '11, "Anna Karenina" '12). By his very resume, he chooses his projects carefully in that he presents his characters with delineated precision in order to convey this to his audience with just the right amount of pathos. It was written by a virtual newbie to theatrical films, Jason Fuchs ("Rags" (TV movie) '12, "Ice Age: Continental Drift" '12, "Big Thunder" (TV movie) '13), based on characters introduced by J.M. Barrie. If he was a seasoned writer, I would have a certain amount of disappointment of this, but considering this guy is relatively new at screenwriting, I have much more forgiveness. Hey, I've seen seasoned writers not produce any better a script, but that's not giving this writer much credit. I would love to see what he could do given more experience, and he will be given that chance, what with two more future films in the pre-production phase right now. Not to give much of this away, but there were too many holes in this of what's really going on, and assuming this makes the money the production companies are hoping for, maybe we'll see "Pan 2" down the road. Visually, this film was stunning and seamless--the majority of the visual effects were created by MPC (Moving Picture Company) and Framestore, but I can't help but think that if all this CGI imagery wasn't in this film, would it have kept the audience's attention because of just the storyline? You be the judge.
As I mentioned above, this having the creative visuals it has certainly is amazingly entertaining, and with the delicious characters in which Jackman, Mara and Hedlund played, all in a nifty 3D format, this just screams, break out the popcorn and enjoy.
Out of 4 Stars: 3 Rated: PG 111mins.
We've seen a plethora of films based on true stories, but how many have we seen which is based on an epic adventure centering on the obsession on one individual? Probably none. Sure the recent "Everest", sill in the theaters is an incredible adventure, but even it involved many people. Then there's the film "The Impossible", but, again, it involved the survival of a family, not just one individual. But now in the offing we give you "The Walk".
The year is 1974. Twelve people have walked on the moon, but only one man-- Philippe Petit (Joseph Gordon-Levitt)-- has ever, or ever will walk in the immense 140 foot void between the New York World Trade Center towers. Guided by his real-life mentor, Papa Rudy (Ben Kingsley), supported by his artist girlfriend Annie (Charlotte La Bon) and aided by an unlikely band of international recruits, Jean-Louis (Clement Sibony), Jeff/Jean-Francois (Cesar Domboy), Barry Greenhouse (Steve Valentine), Jean-Pierre/J.P. (James Badge Dale), Albert (Ben Schwartz), and David (Benedict Samuel), Petit and his gang overcome long odds, betrayals, dissension and countless close calls to conceive and execute their mad plan.
Robert Zemeckis, the director of such marvels as "Forrest Gump", "Cast Away", "Back to the Future", "Polar Express" and "Flight", again use cutting edge technology in the service of an emotional, character-driven story. With innovative photorealistic techniques and IMAX 3D wizardry, "The Walk" is true big-screen cinema, a chance for moviegoers to viscerally experience the feeling of reaching the clouds.
Others to round out the cast are Mark Camacho as Guy Tozolli, Catherine Lemieux as Texan Tourist Woman, and Larry Day as Texan Tourist Man.
As aforementioned, this was directed by the incomparable Robert Zemeckis ("Used Cars" '80, "Romancing the Stone" '84, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" '88, "Death Becomes Her" '92, "Contact" '97, "What Lies Beneath" 2000, "Beowulf" '07, "A Christmas Carol" '09), plus the aforementioned films. Zemeckis is not afraid of attempting the impossible, which is one thing one must respect. And even though he caters a lot to what is the new technology today to use in his films, he still is able to incorporate that technology and make it fit in the storyline.
It was equally written well by Zemeckis and Christopher Browne based on the book "To Reach the Clouds" by Philippe Petit. Even though this is Browne's first feature film, Zemeckis is a consummate pro at writing screenplays, and this script proves that talent. This story had no problem keeping my attention for its 122 minute running time, which can be tough to provide when a film centers so heavily upon one individual. And what can I say about Joseph Gordon-Leavitt except that this has got to be his best effort in the acting game I've seen him do yet, and he's a talented actor. What impressed me as much as the story and acting was the fact that the World Trade Center was the pivotal set stage for this story, and those towers don't even exist anymore. Not only does that make this poignant, but makes this a logistical marvel. How did those guys do all this and make it seem so much like the film was shot on site?
This film has it all: great directing, writing, acting, visual and photographic effects, cinematography. But then again, we're talking about Zemeckis. He is one of those filmmakers that one looks for--no matter what the film's about. Because, once you hit the multiplex, you can be rest assured that the film laid in front of you will be entertaining and simply knock your socks off!
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG 122mins.
The fight against drugs isn't only political, but it has become great fodder for meaty scripts for films. Whether the film is based on a true story or not, there is so much material in which to write a dynamite screenplay. We've seen many films in past and will continue to see in the future: "Traffic", "The Counselor", "Killing Me Softly", "The Drop", and others. So now we are given the much awaited, "Sicario".
In the lawless border area stretching between the U.S. and Mexico, an idealistic FBI agent, Kate Macer (Emily Blunt) is enlisted by an elite government task force official, Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) and his colleague, Dave Jennings (Victor Garber) to aid in the escalating war against drugs attempting to rid drug lord Fausto Alarcon (Julio Cedillo). Led by an enigmatic consultant with a questionable past, Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro), the team sets out on a clandestine journey forcing Kate to question everything that she believes in order to survive. Through the most unorthodox and basically illegal means to rid of this drug lord, can these guys trust Kate and FBI agent colleague, Reggie Wayne (Daniel Kaluuya) with them knowing that some rules may have to be broken to make any headway in combatting these scum of the Earth? Only time will tell.
Others to round out the cast are Jon Bernthal as Ted, Jeffrey Donovan as Steve Forsing, Raoul Trujillo as Rafael, Hank Rogerson as Phil Coopers, Bernardo P. Saracino as Manuel Diaz, Maximiliano Hernandez as Silvio, Kevin Wiggins as Burnett, Edgar Arreola as Guillermo and Kim Larrichio as Silvio's wife.
This was directed with intense grit and volatility by Denis Villeneuve ("Maelstrom" 2000, "Polytechnique" '09, "Incendies" '10, "Prisoners" '13, "Enemy" '13). This filmmaker doesn't have a plethora of experience, but what he has to his credit is cutting edge and phenomenal in the intense and creepy way. He knows how to get his actors to emit almost a claustrophobic feeling in which to make their characters that much more troublesome. He has future work in the process which should be just as intense as his other projects, this included. It was written with expertise by newcomer Taylor Sheridan (upcoming- "Comancheria" filming right now). This guy is an actor who has slowly made the transition to writing and this is a natural move. Seasoned writers should take note of the quality of which Sheridan writes. Now, time and more work will be the test as far as if this was just a fluke or not. There was a small slow spot in the middle of this script, but I can't help but think that this was intentional, hence once the story got going again, it simply snow-balled and the story started falling into place as it was reaching the end. And what can I say about the cast, both Blunt and Brolin played their roles with the quality which we've come to expect. The one that actually shined here was Del Toro as Alejandro, Sicario--or in Mexico means hitman. He's a great actor, but he was certainly as talented in this as he was in "Traffic".
This is a film that is written, directed and acted well, but certainly isn't for everyone considering the graphic violence that is housed in this. But if one can wrap their head around the fact that because of the subject matter--being about a bunch a bad guys doing very bad things, that the craft of this film should more than compensate.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: R 121mins.
Science fiction films have always been a favorite with the movie going audience as far back as I can remember, and I'm 63 years young. And more to the point, the planet Mars has been the most used, maybe over-used planet in which to write. We've seen "Total Recall" (two versions), "Red Planet" and others. So when I saw my first trailer on "The Martian", I thought this particular premise certainly had promise and after viewing it, my presumptions were correct.
During a manned mission to Mars, astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew including Capt. Melissa Lewis (Jessica Chastain), Rick Martinez (Michael Pena), Beth Johanssen (Kate Mara), Chris Beck (Sebastian Stan) and Aksel Hennie (Alex Vogel). But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA including the director, Teddy Sanders (Jeff Daniels) and the director of Mars Mission, Vincent Kapoor (Chiwetel Ejiofor), along with a team of scientists work tirelessly to bring 'the Martian' home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission. As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney's safe return.
Others to round out the cast are Kristen Wiig as Annie Montrose, NASA's PR Director, Sean Bean as Mitch Henderson, Flight Director for NASA, Mackenzie Davis as Mindy Park, Donald Glover as Rich Purnell, Benedict Wong as Bruce Ng, Jonathan Aris as Brendan Hatch and Enzo Cilenti as Mike Watkins.
Even though Matt Damon is an accomplished actor, and he exceled in this, I can't help but think that it had something to do with the director which is veteran Ridley Scott ("The Duelists" '77, "Alien" '79, "Blade Runner" '82, "Legend" '85, "Thelma & Louise" '91, "White Squall" '96, "Gladiator" 2000, "Hannibal" '01, "Black Hawk Down" '01, "Matchstick Men" '03, "American Gangster" '07, "Prometheus" '12, "The Counselor" '13, "Exodus: Gods and Kings" '14) plus others. The way Watney had to transform from being shocked that he was alive, to being fearful to wonderment of what to do, to strategizing his plan, all the while running into pitfalls and having to 'climb' out from them was pure directing genius. Of course this guy has proven himself time and again, so one can truly expect that the direction is going to be solid no matter if the project is lackluster otherwise. The film was well written by Drew Goddard ("Cloverfield" '08, "The Cabin in the Woods" '12, "World War Z" '13) based on the book by Andy Weir. Even though this writer has limited writing experience, I believe he is a natural. His work is perennially well thought out even if the subject matter is questionable or weird. The sci-fi genre isn't one of my favorites, but if something is well written with an interesting premise, I can and do enjoy them. Think about it: a guy who is a botanist growing plants on a planet with no growth and using science to accomplish this. This is original and the script makes it look so plausible. The visual effects were predominantly created by ILM (Industrial, Light & Magic), MPC (Moving Picture Company) and Framestore and were not only seamless, but didn't take away from this interesting storyline at all. In fact, on the contrary, they enhanced the script.
This film has it all: Excitement, adventure, fear, ingenuity, reflection and consignment all in a neat 3D format to make it look even bigger. This is a film that must be seen by all, because all will love it--I sure did.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 141mins.
For some reason, films that center around chefs and cooking have always intrigued me-- surely it can't be that I'm a cook or can even cook, but it's probably because of the challenge they go through to create a masterpiece through certain trials that interests me. So when I saw my first trailer for "Burnt", I was hooked. And this was no less intriguing than that of "The Hundred-Foot Journey" which was amazing.
