I'm calling it: Pitch Perfect is the feel-good movie of the year.
This late September release is the story of one collegiate a cappella group's journey on their way to the top. One might immediately think, "Oh no, I don't want to be trapped watching a knock-off Glee for close to two hours." Now it's up to you whether you enjoy Glee or despise it, but this film has something for both sides. It has beautiful vocals, a perfectionist group leader, and some dramedy (comedy-drama), yet all the while, it's genuinely hilarious, has original characters, and adds something totally new to the college-movie genera.
What made this comedy so likeable was all of its quirky elements, from secret "riff-off" showdowns to its references to The Breakfast Club, it was full of reasons to feel truly amused.
Absolutely one of my favorite comedies recently!
You have to watch it!
Frankenweenie
It was a great idea and a great story, but having recently seen ParaNorman, it was hard to truly appreciate it. In comparison to the summer release, Frankenweenie really seemed to be lacking. Some might say this was because of the choice not to create the film in color, but I think it was because the story and animation just were not as good.
It was a good effort, but it may have been better if it had been released after the excitement of ParaNorman died down a bit more.
Argo
The story, the acting, and the cinematography were positively brilliant. This is one that would be easy to give away too much about, but I'll say that it was more intense than most movies I go to.
I call it a must-see for anyone interested in historical events.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
A brief review of The Words
The Words
This film may not have the best rating on review sites, such as Metacritic, but I really enjoyed it. I felt that it had an excellent cast and that it portrayed the idea of intertwining and framing stories. Its varying cinematic styles added a beautiful aesthetic.
You may not be able to see this one until its DVD release, but if you're looking for something that isn't an everyday love story, I'd really recommend this movie.
This film may not have the best rating on review sites, such as Metacritic, but I really enjoyed it. I felt that it had an excellent cast and that it portrayed the idea of intertwining and framing stories. Its varying cinematic styles added a beautiful aesthetic.
You may not be able to see this one until its DVD release, but if you're looking for something that isn't an everyday love story, I'd really recommend this movie.
Dredd 3D
Dredd 3D
In the future, Mega City One (between what we know as Boston and Washington D.C.) cannot sustain the justice system we know today. Justice in a crime filled world is maintained in a stunning new way. Criminals are faced with one person who happens to be a judge, jury, and executioner, called simply, "Judge". If caught in the act by a judge, the criminal is sentenced immediately.
I honestly expected to hate this movie. I felt as though the trailers that were shown in theaters and TV before it premiered did a poor job of portraying the real essence of this film. The main character, Judge Dredd, is never shown in a way that allows the audience to see his eyes. In the preview, I felt that having him always wear an eye-covering helmet was a horrible way to portray him. How is the audience supposed to feel just looking at half of a face? (Not to mention, it's the half that is hard to illustrate emotions with.)
Let me just say: my first impression of this film was entirely wrong. The actor who played Dredd, Karl Urban, did an excellent job of using the helmet to the character's advantage. It created a sense of mystery, while making Dredd seem stronger than the average person, as the audience never got the chance to read emotion in his eyes. It was amazing to see how much emotion can be portrayed through just the use of his mouth area.
The acting of Olivia Thirlby, who played Anderson (a judge in training) was amazing, compared to her days of playing Juno's best friend. I was surprised at how well she did in a serious and action-based role. Her intensity really added to how I felt about Dredd 3D.
It had amazing cinematography, music (although it never actually used the one song that was almost every preview for it), and acting. I commend the makers of the film for not just cutting away when a scene got violent. It went the distance and made every violent moment worth viewing, no matter how gruesome.
I would recommend this film to anyone who really wants true action and a thought-provoking story.
As always, thank you for reading! Sorry it's been so long.
In the future, Mega City One (between what we know as Boston and Washington D.C.) cannot sustain the justice system we know today. Justice in a crime filled world is maintained in a stunning new way. Criminals are faced with one person who happens to be a judge, jury, and executioner, called simply, "Judge". If caught in the act by a judge, the criminal is sentenced immediately.
I honestly expected to hate this movie. I felt as though the trailers that were shown in theaters and TV before it premiered did a poor job of portraying the real essence of this film. The main character, Judge Dredd, is never shown in a way that allows the audience to see his eyes. In the preview, I felt that having him always wear an eye-covering helmet was a horrible way to portray him. How is the audience supposed to feel just looking at half of a face? (Not to mention, it's the half that is hard to illustrate emotions with.)
Let me just say: my first impression of this film was entirely wrong. The actor who played Dredd, Karl Urban, did an excellent job of using the helmet to the character's advantage. It created a sense of mystery, while making Dredd seem stronger than the average person, as the audience never got the chance to read emotion in his eyes. It was amazing to see how much emotion can be portrayed through just the use of his mouth area.
The acting of Olivia Thirlby, who played Anderson (a judge in training) was amazing, compared to her days of playing Juno's best friend. I was surprised at how well she did in a serious and action-based role. Her intensity really added to how I felt about Dredd 3D.
It had amazing cinematography, music (although it never actually used the one song that was almost every preview for it), and acting. I commend the makers of the film for not just cutting away when a scene got violent. It went the distance and made every violent moment worth viewing, no matter how gruesome.
I would recommend this film to anyone who really wants true action and a thought-provoking story.
As always, thank you for reading! Sorry it's been so long.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Catching up as the school year begins!
In the later part of this summer there were quite a few movies worth seeing. I took a break to get ready for school, travel, and finish my summer job.
Now let's get started with these reviews!
In chronological order of the release dates:
The Campaign
Hilarious. To explain further, comedy is my favorite form of movie, so that may explain my opinion of this Ferrell and Galifianakis film. In addition to keeping up with proper Holywood comedy standards, this film unleashed some fresh talent, to be specific: Sarah Baker, Grant Goodman, and Kya Haywood (all of which played Galifianakis' family). It may not be what I'd call a theater-must-see, but I recommend The Campaign when it reaches your RedBox.
ParaNorman
Totally brilliant. The stop-motion animation-style was fascinating to watch onscreen. When thinking about other films like Wallace and Gromit, I remembered finding stop-motion to be a bit painful to watch when comparing it to other animation styles, however, ParaNorman is far more advanced (which is perfectly fine because it is over two decades past those days). Beyond that, the story that the film tells is exciting and compelling, spooky at times. Loved it! Great movie for the whole family.
Premium Rush
I had no idea what to expect from this Joseph Gordon-Levitt film. Obviously he's one of today's greatest actors, but really, how much can you expect from a movie that takes place almost entirely on bikes? To answer that one for you: SO MUCH! Okay, walking into the theater, I could have honestly cared less about bike messengers in NYC...but five minutes into the movie, I was on the edge of my seat and loving every second of the show. It had great casting, great scenery, and great music. Go see it, you'll love it!
Lawless
I always feel hesitant about watching a movie that starts, "Based on a True Story" but this was actually a really good story. It took place during the time of the Prohibition and is the story of the Bondurant brothers in their pursuit to sell moonshine throughout Franklin county, Virginia and beyond. The top-billed actors Tom Hardy and Shia LaBeouf are phenomenal, as well as their co-stars. The costumes, settings, music, ect. all created a very realistic mood in which it was easy to become immersed. If you're craving a bit of historically themed filmography, this is a great way to spend a couple hours.
Thanks for reading!
Now let's get started with these reviews!
In chronological order of the release dates:
The Campaign
Hilarious. To explain further, comedy is my favorite form of movie, so that may explain my opinion of this Ferrell and Galifianakis film. In addition to keeping up with proper Holywood comedy standards, this film unleashed some fresh talent, to be specific: Sarah Baker, Grant Goodman, and Kya Haywood (all of which played Galifianakis' family). It may not be what I'd call a theater-must-see, but I recommend The Campaign when it reaches your RedBox.
ParaNorman
Totally brilliant. The stop-motion animation-style was fascinating to watch onscreen. When thinking about other films like Wallace and Gromit, I remembered finding stop-motion to be a bit painful to watch when comparing it to other animation styles, however, ParaNorman is far more advanced (which is perfectly fine because it is over two decades past those days). Beyond that, the story that the film tells is exciting and compelling, spooky at times. Loved it! Great movie for the whole family.
Premium Rush
I had no idea what to expect from this Joseph Gordon-Levitt film. Obviously he's one of today's greatest actors, but really, how much can you expect from a movie that takes place almost entirely on bikes? To answer that one for you: SO MUCH! Okay, walking into the theater, I could have honestly cared less about bike messengers in NYC...but five minutes into the movie, I was on the edge of my seat and loving every second of the show. It had great casting, great scenery, and great music. Go see it, you'll love it!
Lawless
I always feel hesitant about watching a movie that starts, "Based on a True Story" but this was actually a really good story. It took place during the time of the Prohibition and is the story of the Bondurant brothers in their pursuit to sell moonshine throughout Franklin county, Virginia and beyond. The top-billed actors Tom Hardy and Shia LaBeouf are phenomenal, as well as their co-stars. The costumes, settings, music, ect. all created a very realistic mood in which it was easy to become immersed. If you're craving a bit of historically themed filmography, this is a great way to spend a couple hours.
Thanks for reading!
Friday, August 10, 2012
The past month (...or more) in movies!
I'll make these first couple extra short and sweet:
Ted:
Literally one of the funniest movies I've seen in a long time. If you like Family Guy humor, you'll love it...if you don't, you still might! The casting was awesome (Mila Kunis, Mark Wahlberg, Joel McHale, Seth MacFarlane, etc.)!
Love it! Go watch it!
The Watch:
Cheesy but funny. I was expecting a little more from the cast of Ben Stiller, Jonah Hill and Vince Vaughn, but it was still enjoyable.
It's not a must see, but if you like any of the actors and are looking for some entertainment, this might tide you over for a bit.
(Also, there's an amazing cameo in this movie...made my day!)
Savages:
Brutal does not even begin to explain this movie. Centered in the cannabis market of southern California, the plot of this movie follows the lives of three young and beautiful friends, who have become each others' closest family. Kick-Ass' Aaron Johnson plays the entrepreneur of the business that gets them all into one of the most horrifying situations possible. Taylor Kitsch plays what one could essentially call the "protector" of the family. Then we have Blake Lively in the role of O, who enjoys being the romantic lead in both of the mens' lives. They have a strange yet beautiful arrangement, which makes for quite a passionate search for O when she becomes kidnapped by the business' closest competition from Mexico.
Now that you have some of the summary, here's the pits and the peaks.
-The casting of the roles was amazing, yet the acting was lacking in a couple parts that involved Lively.
-The cinematography in certain parts was one of the most amazing things I'd ever seen, the colors were perfection and shots had a way of making the audience feel the pain that characters were going through, but there were some parts that looked like they could have just been from a cable-TV show.
If you are looking to feel dangerous or wanting to see some passionate love scenes, while making sure you still have plenty of gunshots and action, you'd love it. It has plenty to offer, but it's not for everyone.
Total Recall:
This movie took some reflection afterwards to really appreciate. The acting was decent, the casting was good, and the soundtrack wasn't bad either. What really made this film memorable to me was the portrayal of the future. The technology and transportation were really fascinating to think about beyond just the time spent in the theater.
The setting was an excellent device within the story. Total Recall takes place at the end of the twenty-first century on Earth, all of which has become inhabitable, except for what is currently called the United Kingdom and Australia ("The Colony"). The Colony, under the oppression of the leader of the United Federation of Britain, is connected to the Federation by a tram called "the fall."
From what I've heard about the Schwarzenegger version of the film, this is not a remake, it is nearly original, however this film does make reference to the first version.
If you are looking for a fast-paced thriller with a futuristic twist, I'd recommend this one to you!
Thanks for reading!
Ted:
Literally one of the funniest movies I've seen in a long time. If you like Family Guy humor, you'll love it...if you don't, you still might! The casting was awesome (Mila Kunis, Mark Wahlberg, Joel McHale, Seth MacFarlane, etc.)!
Love it! Go watch it!
The Watch:
Cheesy but funny. I was expecting a little more from the cast of Ben Stiller, Jonah Hill and Vince Vaughn, but it was still enjoyable.
It's not a must see, but if you like any of the actors and are looking for some entertainment, this might tide you over for a bit.
(Also, there's an amazing cameo in this movie...made my day!)
Savages:
Brutal does not even begin to explain this movie. Centered in the cannabis market of southern California, the plot of this movie follows the lives of three young and beautiful friends, who have become each others' closest family. Kick-Ass' Aaron Johnson plays the entrepreneur of the business that gets them all into one of the most horrifying situations possible. Taylor Kitsch plays what one could essentially call the "protector" of the family. Then we have Blake Lively in the role of O, who enjoys being the romantic lead in both of the mens' lives. They have a strange yet beautiful arrangement, which makes for quite a passionate search for O when she becomes kidnapped by the business' closest competition from Mexico.
Now that you have some of the summary, here's the pits and the peaks.
-The casting of the roles was amazing, yet the acting was lacking in a couple parts that involved Lively.
-The cinematography in certain parts was one of the most amazing things I'd ever seen, the colors were perfection and shots had a way of making the audience feel the pain that characters were going through, but there were some parts that looked like they could have just been from a cable-TV show.
If you are looking to feel dangerous or wanting to see some passionate love scenes, while making sure you still have plenty of gunshots and action, you'd love it. It has plenty to offer, but it's not for everyone.
Total Recall:
This movie took some reflection afterwards to really appreciate. The acting was decent, the casting was good, and the soundtrack wasn't bad either. What really made this film memorable to me was the portrayal of the future. The technology and transportation were really fascinating to think about beyond just the time spent in the theater.
The setting was an excellent device within the story. Total Recall takes place at the end of the twenty-first century on Earth, all of which has become inhabitable, except for what is currently called the United Kingdom and Australia ("The Colony"). The Colony, under the oppression of the leader of the United Federation of Britain, is connected to the Federation by a tram called "the fall."
From what I've heard about the Schwarzenegger version of the film, this is not a remake, it is nearly original, however this film does make reference to the first version.
If you are looking for a fast-paced thriller with a futuristic twist, I'd recommend this one to you!
Thanks for reading!
Friday, July 20, 2012
Catching up!
Sorry it's been so long! I have no good excuse, so I'll just get on with the reviews!
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World:
This movie was marketed as a comedy...the comedic solution to the "end of the world." It, however, was not. I left the theater crying and declared that it was more sad than The Titanic. It had amazing acting, great splices of comedy, perfect hues of irony, and a beautiful story.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes Keira Knightley's acting style--just don't expect to leave smiling because you just saw Steve Carell.
Brave:
Such phenomenal animation. I saw bits and pieces of this movie's promos starting last summer on Tumblr. I was intrigued immediately by a fiery, redheaded princess. Honestly, you'd be crazy not to. It isn't just a story for kids either--there's a lot more to it than just another princess story. The main character, Merida, is one of the spunkiest, tomboyish creations that Disney has produced. Loved it (setting, voice-acting, visual effects, etc.)!
It's a great story and I'd reccomend watching it with your mom---it would make a great Mothers' Day present!
Spiderman:
Best part: Emma Stone! Just kidding, although she was great, this movie had a lot more to offer than just one of my favorite actresses.
The origin story of Spiderman in this is what really made the movie great. It's different from the other recent movies, but I don't want to give away too much! The character of Peter Parker and the life around him seemed to me as though it could have flown directly from a comic book onto the big screen--colors popped, the action was fast, and the story was entertaining--what else would you expect from a Marvel film?
Perfect summer movie!
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World:
This movie was marketed as a comedy...the comedic solution to the "end of the world." It, however, was not. I left the theater crying and declared that it was more sad than The Titanic. It had amazing acting, great splices of comedy, perfect hues of irony, and a beautiful story.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes Keira Knightley's acting style--just don't expect to leave smiling because you just saw Steve Carell.
Brave:
Such phenomenal animation. I saw bits and pieces of this movie's promos starting last summer on Tumblr. I was intrigued immediately by a fiery, redheaded princess. Honestly, you'd be crazy not to. It isn't just a story for kids either--there's a lot more to it than just another princess story. The main character, Merida, is one of the spunkiest, tomboyish creations that Disney has produced. Loved it (setting, voice-acting, visual effects, etc.)!
It's a great story and I'd reccomend watching it with your mom---it would make a great Mothers' Day present!
Spiderman:
Best part: Emma Stone! Just kidding, although she was great, this movie had a lot more to offer than just one of my favorite actresses.
The origin story of Spiderman in this is what really made the movie great. It's different from the other recent movies, but I don't want to give away too much! The character of Peter Parker and the life around him seemed to me as though it could have flown directly from a comic book onto the big screen--colors popped, the action was fast, and the story was entertaining--what else would you expect from a Marvel film?
Perfect summer movie!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Dwarfs, Aliens, and Hair Bands
Rock of Ages:
Go see it! Go see it! Go see it! Oh my goodness, I loved this movie! It had the perfect amount of insane humor, crazy 80s costumes, and some great musical numbers. It had a long play time, however, it's a Broadway show, so you have to consider that it would traditionally have an intermission. If you enjoyed hairspray, you'll like this one too (as long as you don't mind some adult subject matter and basically every song from guitar hero).
Snow White and the Huntsman:
The thought of watching a Kristen Stewart movie may initially make you cringe, but just wait. This movie had such amazing special effects, great co-stars (Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron), and was quite an interesting take on the classic Snow White story. Stewart did a great job in my opinion, as her harsh facial expressions actually made sense in this role. I enjoyed its action, music, and visual appeal. I would absolutely recommend this movie!
Prometheus:
I wish I could unsee this movie, to be quite honest. I loved the characters, I loved the setting, I loved the casting, but I hated the story. I watched the original Alien movie after watching this, just hoping to find a little closure, but none was found. If you are big into sci-fi, you might love it, but if you aren't, don't waste your time!
Go see it! Go see it! Go see it! Oh my goodness, I loved this movie! It had the perfect amount of insane humor, crazy 80s costumes, and some great musical numbers. It had a long play time, however, it's a Broadway show, so you have to consider that it would traditionally have an intermission. If you enjoyed hairspray, you'll like this one too (as long as you don't mind some adult subject matter and basically every song from guitar hero).
Snow White and the Huntsman:
The thought of watching a Kristen Stewart movie may initially make you cringe, but just wait. This movie had such amazing special effects, great co-stars (Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron), and was quite an interesting take on the classic Snow White story. Stewart did a great job in my opinion, as her harsh facial expressions actually made sense in this role. I enjoyed its action, music, and visual appeal. I would absolutely recommend this movie!
Prometheus:
I wish I could unsee this movie, to be quite honest. I loved the characters, I loved the setting, I loved the casting, but I hated the story. I watched the original Alien movie after watching this, just hoping to find a little closure, but none was found. If you are big into sci-fi, you might love it, but if you aren't, don't waste your time!
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Movies I've seen of late
The Avengers:
I don't know much about the characters that superhero movies are based on, but I've seen plenty of them. This was a very impressive show and I think it would be nearly impossible not appreciate it. I would absolutely encourage people looking for an action-packed couple of hours to watch this one.
Dark Shadows:
This wasn't exactly what I was expecting...yet I enjoyed it all the same! It was quirky, spooky, silly, artful, and entertaining. Not everyone will love it, but I really did!
What to Expect When You're Expecting:
This isn't the best dramedy (mostly comedy) ever made, but I liked it for sure. It was a chick-flick, but it also had some male humor spilled in every now and then. It had some good acting, so I would absolutely recommenced it!
I don't know much about the characters that superhero movies are based on, but I've seen plenty of them. This was a very impressive show and I think it would be nearly impossible not appreciate it. I would absolutely encourage people looking for an action-packed couple of hours to watch this one.
Dark Shadows:
This wasn't exactly what I was expecting...yet I enjoyed it all the same! It was quirky, spooky, silly, artful, and entertaining. Not everyone will love it, but I really did!
What to Expect When You're Expecting:
This isn't the best dramedy (mostly comedy) ever made, but I liked it for sure. It was a chick-flick, but it also had some male humor spilled in every now and then. It had some good acting, so I would absolutely recommenced it!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
The Five Year Engagement
I loved this film. I love Jason Segel (of HIMYM)...I love Emily Blunt (of The Devil Wears Prada)...I love Chris Pratt (of Parks and Rec.)...and I certainly love Alison Brie (of Community and Mad Men).
This movie was six parts hilarious, four parts emotionally truthful, and entirely (ten out of ten) worth the watch. I was wondering if a movie with Emily Blunt could be outright funny...I'll admit it, I was worried that she might ruin all of the comedic talent, but her dramatic performance combined with her beauty and Audrey Hepburnesque elegance...mixed with a refreshing unexpected dose of humor really impressed me.
The Five Year Engagement is the story of a cute couple with a genuinely portrayed strong loving relationship. We follow them as they go from the story of how they met, to how they get engaged a year later, to how they uproot their lives for a career, to how that career eventually comes between them...all the while, their lives are constantly interrupted by the progression of their families' lives and the new relationships that they are forming over the evolution of their own relationship. At times...I couldn't stop laughing...then I felt my heart breaking...and then there were times when I could have sworn that no other movie could make me feel happier than I did in that moment.
It feels authentic, yet it didn't bore me or make me feel like I had wasted time, which is something that often happens when watching films called "authentic."
It was a beautiful experience and it ends better than it began! I recommend this movie to absolutely anyone.
[If you enjoyed Crazy, Stupid Love, you'll have a ball with The Five Year Engagement!]
Thank you for reading!
This movie was six parts hilarious, four parts emotionally truthful, and entirely (ten out of ten) worth the watch. I was wondering if a movie with Emily Blunt could be outright funny...I'll admit it, I was worried that she might ruin all of the comedic talent, but her dramatic performance combined with her beauty and Audrey Hepburnesque elegance...mixed with a refreshing unexpected dose of humor really impressed me.
The Five Year Engagement is the story of a cute couple with a genuinely portrayed strong loving relationship. We follow them as they go from the story of how they met, to how they get engaged a year later, to how they uproot their lives for a career, to how that career eventually comes between them...all the while, their lives are constantly interrupted by the progression of their families' lives and the new relationships that they are forming over the evolution of their own relationship. At times...I couldn't stop laughing...then I felt my heart breaking...and then there were times when I could have sworn that no other movie could make me feel happier than I did in that moment.
It feels authentic, yet it didn't bore me or make me feel like I had wasted time, which is something that often happens when watching films called "authentic."
It was a beautiful experience and it ends better than it began! I recommend this movie to absolutely anyone.
[If you enjoyed Crazy, Stupid Love, you'll have a ball with The Five Year Engagement!]
Thank you for reading!
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Catching Up: The Movies of This Weekend!
American Reunion:
Let me start out by saying: If you like the American Pie movies, you'll like it (if you don't, you probably won't). I really liked it, so go ahead and judge me! The raunchy humor is still there and doing a good job at getting a laugh from the audience.
I'll just go ahead and say that one of the best parts is that Jim's dad gets together with Stifler's mom, and it's wonderful! (I don't want to say too much else though because I want you to experience the comedy for yourselves.)
I recommend this movie if you are looking for a guaranteed laugh.
Like Crazy:
This movie is beautiful in one of the most sad and sentimental ways possible. It follows the continual relationship between two young adults who met at college and became ripped apart by the distance between Los Angeles and England once their time at school came to an end.
Initially, their love is quite literally, like crazy...nothing came between them, they were happier than ever before. Slowly, they grow apart once the female lead must go back to her home in England. Like any young couple in a long-distance relationship would do, they try to make it work...but it turns out that sometimes it can be easiest to just let go. Their constant worries of their love for each other, past, present, and future, gives new meaning to the title. Their relationship makes them feel crazy.
Excellent acting, cinematography, and story.
The Sitter:
Jonah Hill fans of the world, unite!
It's not my favorite Hill movie, but it's still pretty good, especially if you didn't like how skinny he was in 21 Jump Street (okay...maybe I just don't like change).
This comedy chronicles the adventures of a college-dropout-turned-babysitter for a night. It is a thrill ride of silly fight scenes and drug-humor, yet it still manages to have the token few sentimental moments that we all crave (to some extent).
If you're looking for something worth your dollar at the Rebox, this one is for you.
Rubber:
The tagline of this movie should be: "Why does anything happen: No reason."
This film is literally the life story of a telepathic tire. Yes, you read that correctly, a tire, like from a car. You may stop and think, why on earth would this ever become a movie? Here's the answer: No reason.
The tire, once it finds that it has destructive abilities, that it enjoys killing. One thing you don't want to do with a tire like this is anger it or treat it poorly, which is a lesson learned by his victims throughout the movie.
Some have found it brilliant, others have found it funny, and many more have found it ridiculous. I thought, if we look past the fact that it's a bit insane, we can see that the message may be to respect our environment, even the tires. It becomes somewhat clear that, when anything is treated poorly, it is hard for it to be anything but inherently evil.
Crazy, but beautiful cinematography is my verdict on this one.
Let me start out by saying: If you like the American Pie movies, you'll like it (if you don't, you probably won't). I really liked it, so go ahead and judge me! The raunchy humor is still there and doing a good job at getting a laugh from the audience.
I'll just go ahead and say that one of the best parts is that Jim's dad gets together with Stifler's mom, and it's wonderful! (I don't want to say too much else though because I want you to experience the comedy for yourselves.)
I recommend this movie if you are looking for a guaranteed laugh.
Like Crazy:
This movie is beautiful in one of the most sad and sentimental ways possible. It follows the continual relationship between two young adults who met at college and became ripped apart by the distance between Los Angeles and England once their time at school came to an end.
Initially, their love is quite literally, like crazy...nothing came between them, they were happier than ever before. Slowly, they grow apart once the female lead must go back to her home in England. Like any young couple in a long-distance relationship would do, they try to make it work...but it turns out that sometimes it can be easiest to just let go. Their constant worries of their love for each other, past, present, and future, gives new meaning to the title. Their relationship makes them feel crazy.
Excellent acting, cinematography, and story.
The Sitter:
Jonah Hill fans of the world, unite!
It's not my favorite Hill movie, but it's still pretty good, especially if you didn't like how skinny he was in 21 Jump Street (okay...maybe I just don't like change).
This comedy chronicles the adventures of a college-dropout-turned-babysitter for a night. It is a thrill ride of silly fight scenes and drug-humor, yet it still manages to have the token few sentimental moments that we all crave (to some extent).
If you're looking for something worth your dollar at the Rebox, this one is for you.
Rubber:
The tagline of this movie should be: "Why does anything happen: No reason."
This film is literally the life story of a telepathic tire. Yes, you read that correctly, a tire, like from a car. You may stop and think, why on earth would this ever become a movie? Here's the answer: No reason.
The tire, once it finds that it has destructive abilities, that it enjoys killing. One thing you don't want to do with a tire like this is anger it or treat it poorly, which is a lesson learned by his victims throughout the movie.
Some have found it brilliant, others have found it funny, and many more have found it ridiculous. I thought, if we look past the fact that it's a bit insane, we can see that the message may be to respect our environment, even the tires. It becomes somewhat clear that, when anything is treated poorly, it is hard for it to be anything but inherently evil.
Crazy, but beautiful cinematography is my verdict on this one.
The Cabin in the Woods
When I started to watch this movie I had no clue where it was going. It starts in something that looks like a secret corporate or government-run facility with important people in lab coats talking about competing with some unknown product of Japan.
Then, in a completely unrelated change of scene we meet the characters we are to follow into this cabin in the woods. I thought to myself: "Oh god, not another movie like Prom Night, with pretty people going off to have fun...then all dying..." They set out on a long voyage down dirt roads where their GPS no longer works and are warned not to go to this cabin by a wild-eyed, red-neck gas station owner. They make it to the cabin and are still slightly put-off by the warning they received, yet still get ready to spend their weekend out in the middle of nowhere.
It is at this point that the two plots start to come together as we see the campers on television screens in the facility we initially saw. All of a sudden, these "scientists" of sorts start talking about how they dosed the token blonde actress' hair dye with a substance to dumb her down. The film seems to be a documentation of a controlled experiment, in which they are medicating the characters and watching what happens, but it is actually far worse.
The campers are shocked when the basement door (hidden in the floor, of course) flies open. For some reason, they decide, rather than just shutting the creepy door, that they should go into the basement and investigate. (That's their first mistake.)
We watch as they pick up what they believe to be the old belongings of the previous owners of the cabin, and we are brought back to the facility where the campers are being watched on-screen. We see nearly fifty people in lab coats making bets on something, and then there is a close-up of a whiteboard, riddled with various monsters that exist in nightmares and spooky stories, with tally marks beside each name.
Then the campers decide that it's a wonderful idea to start reading a diary which, in turn, causes zombies to rise from the ground.
It is here that I cannot tell you more without ruining the whole movie for you. What I will tell you is that the film uses this excellent idea to give rise to all the trouble that ensues: They are haunted not by creatures that come from nightmares, but by the creatures that nightmares come from.
Overall, the film had an interesting idea, many people loved it. (It wasn't my cup of tea...however, there is an excellent plot twist or two at the end and a completely awesome and unexpected appearance of a star that really wraps up the movie.)
(For more information on this film, please visit IMDb: The Cabin in the Woods)
Thank you for reading!
Then, in a completely unrelated change of scene we meet the characters we are to follow into this cabin in the woods. I thought to myself: "Oh god, not another movie like Prom Night, with pretty people going off to have fun...then all dying..." They set out on a long voyage down dirt roads where their GPS no longer works and are warned not to go to this cabin by a wild-eyed, red-neck gas station owner. They make it to the cabin and are still slightly put-off by the warning they received, yet still get ready to spend their weekend out in the middle of nowhere.
It is at this point that the two plots start to come together as we see the campers on television screens in the facility we initially saw. All of a sudden, these "scientists" of sorts start talking about how they dosed the token blonde actress' hair dye with a substance to dumb her down. The film seems to be a documentation of a controlled experiment, in which they are medicating the characters and watching what happens, but it is actually far worse.
The campers are shocked when the basement door (hidden in the floor, of course) flies open. For some reason, they decide, rather than just shutting the creepy door, that they should go into the basement and investigate. (That's their first mistake.)
We watch as they pick up what they believe to be the old belongings of the previous owners of the cabin, and we are brought back to the facility where the campers are being watched on-screen. We see nearly fifty people in lab coats making bets on something, and then there is a close-up of a whiteboard, riddled with various monsters that exist in nightmares and spooky stories, with tally marks beside each name.
Then the campers decide that it's a wonderful idea to start reading a diary which, in turn, causes zombies to rise from the ground.
It is here that I cannot tell you more without ruining the whole movie for you. What I will tell you is that the film uses this excellent idea to give rise to all the trouble that ensues: They are haunted not by creatures that come from nightmares, but by the creatures that nightmares come from.
Overall, the film had an interesting idea, many people loved it. (It wasn't my cup of tea...however, there is an excellent plot twist or two at the end and a completely awesome and unexpected appearance of a star that really wraps up the movie.)
(For more information on this film, please visit IMDb: The Cabin in the Woods)
Thank you for reading!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
The Hunger Games
What makes a victor in The Hunger Games? The ability to survive a merciless world without succumbing to the immense levels of disgust, dishonesty, and pain.
In what seems to be something of a post-apocalyptic world, in what could be thought of as our civilization's future, there exists a sick game that started out as a punishment, but is now put on for the entertainment of the society's elite. From an evolution of our world, where the wealthy watched as gladiators were ripped to shreds by beasts in ancient Roman arenas, to the picnics that bystanders set up along the sidelines of the Civil War, it is no surprise that people enjoy a fight to the death, no matter how ashamed we may be when questioned about it. This is precisely why The Hunger Games is so brilliant. It shines a mirror on the flaws of society, whilst telling an amazing story of extreme trial, excitement, terror, love and friendship.
This film, starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Stanley Tucci grossed nearly $20 million on its opening night, which is more than any non-sequel midnight opening thus far in movie history (despite the fact that it had a tiny advertising budget, unlike Disney's recent release, John Carter). And all of this success is not without good reasoning.
Laurence's portrayal of Katniss Everdeen, a raw, strong, and brave young woman who volunteers to take part as tribune in the Hunger Games in the place of her younger sister, is positively astonishing. This story demands an almost unimaginable amount determination from Katniss and Laurence's portrayal of the character features an absolutely flawless range of emotions. Her acting was complemented impeccably by the performance of Josh Hutcherson, who was cast in the role of Peeta Mellark, who was also sent to the Hunger Games as tribune to fight for his life and attempt to bring pride to their shared District 12. Together, they win their disturbed audience's affection by becoming "star-crossed lovers," putting on a show much like Romeo and Juliette, yet by the end of the film, one may wonder how much was real and how much was just to survive under the cruel eyes of their society. Serving as the star commentator of the Hunger Games, the talented and versatile Stanly Tucci expertly plays Caesar Flickerman, the favorite television host of the rich and elite, who pushes for the romance between Katniss and Peeta.
It is not without such powerful acting from these three, as well as every other tribune and "game keeper," that this film earned such amazing believability. The realm of Panem suspends disbelief as it captures everything that a post-apocalyptic world could be, with an absurd concentration of wealth concentrated in the Capitol, juxtaposed with its twelve districts, many of which are filled with extreme poverty and despair. The representation of the scarred society is awe-inspiring, as it progresses from a parade of the twenty-four tribunes (two from each district, none from the Capitol) to the blood-bath that occurs, all for the entertainment of the rich and influential beings who enjoy this show in the regression of the values we like to think we have today.
All around, this film is brilliant, outstanding, and above all, compelling.
(This work is credited to Maria NeCastro (me), for future reference.)
In what seems to be something of a post-apocalyptic world, in what could be thought of as our civilization's future, there exists a sick game that started out as a punishment, but is now put on for the entertainment of the society's elite. From an evolution of our world, where the wealthy watched as gladiators were ripped to shreds by beasts in ancient Roman arenas, to the picnics that bystanders set up along the sidelines of the Civil War, it is no surprise that people enjoy a fight to the death, no matter how ashamed we may be when questioned about it. This is precisely why The Hunger Games is so brilliant. It shines a mirror on the flaws of society, whilst telling an amazing story of extreme trial, excitement, terror, love and friendship.
This film, starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Stanley Tucci grossed nearly $20 million on its opening night, which is more than any non-sequel midnight opening thus far in movie history (despite the fact that it had a tiny advertising budget, unlike Disney's recent release, John Carter). And all of this success is not without good reasoning.
Laurence's portrayal of Katniss Everdeen, a raw, strong, and brave young woman who volunteers to take part as tribune in the Hunger Games in the place of her younger sister, is positively astonishing. This story demands an almost unimaginable amount determination from Katniss and Laurence's portrayal of the character features an absolutely flawless range of emotions. Her acting was complemented impeccably by the performance of Josh Hutcherson, who was cast in the role of Peeta Mellark, who was also sent to the Hunger Games as tribune to fight for his life and attempt to bring pride to their shared District 12. Together, they win their disturbed audience's affection by becoming "star-crossed lovers," putting on a show much like Romeo and Juliette, yet by the end of the film, one may wonder how much was real and how much was just to survive under the cruel eyes of their society. Serving as the star commentator of the Hunger Games, the talented and versatile Stanly Tucci expertly plays Caesar Flickerman, the favorite television host of the rich and elite, who pushes for the romance between Katniss and Peeta.
It is not without such powerful acting from these three, as well as every other tribune and "game keeper," that this film earned such amazing believability. The realm of Panem suspends disbelief as it captures everything that a post-apocalyptic world could be, with an absurd concentration of wealth concentrated in the Capitol, juxtaposed with its twelve districts, many of which are filled with extreme poverty and despair. The representation of the scarred society is awe-inspiring, as it progresses from a parade of the twenty-four tribunes (two from each district, none from the Capitol) to the blood-bath that occurs, all for the entertainment of the rich and influential beings who enjoy this show in the regression of the values we like to think we have today.
All around, this film is brilliant, outstanding, and above all, compelling.
(This work is credited to Maria NeCastro (me), for future reference.)
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
21 Jump Street, Mirror Mirror, & The Titanic 3D
21 Jump Street
This was one of the most hilarious movies I've seen lately. It is a quality film because of its nearly-satyric humor, parodies, and how it addresses the stereotypes it uses. 21 Jump Street is better than most teen-comedies in the sense that it is non-traditional and has a more genuine feel than most, which is ironic because the leads, Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum, play two cops who are pretending to be high-schoolers in order to break-up an illegal drug-ring.
This film really proves an increase in the ability of Hill's acting (along with his more serious recent role in Money Ball). If you think that means that there won't be the token hilarious intoxication scene, you are wrong, 21 Jump Street doesn't disappoint.
Also, Channing Tatum is not just a guy that can take his shirt off in movies for a good rating. His comedic abilities were truly impressive. If I could tell you to see this movie for one reason, it would be to see Tatum's comedy for yourself!
This movie also really rocks because: a) the love interest doesn't look like a barbie, she's sweet and deep, b) there is a genuine portrayal of a change of time, high schools have changed (when you go back to highschool, the unexpected WILL happen), and c) there is a very awesome celebrity appearance at the end that really makes the whole movie worth while.
Mirror Mirror
I don't have too much to say about this film, other than don't read reviews of it before you go. I did, and it really spoiled how beautiful the costumes, special effects, make-up, etc. were. It is gorgeous, if you don't like fairytales, don't go see it, if you do, watch it and love it (no thanks to Roger Ebert)!
The Titanic in 3D
This movie is amazing, no matter whether it's on a giant screen in 3D or if you're watching it on cable interrupted by a billion commercials. It is one of the best movies ever made, in my opinion, especially if you feel emotion and aren't some weird robot, no offense. The acting is phenomenal, the cinematography is awe-inspiring, the music is perfection...be still my beating heart.
Here's my verdict of this recent release: It's beautiful that a whole new generation gets to see it on the big screen, but it really doesn't need to be in 3D (because it wasn't shot in 3D originally, the effects aren't all that impressive). The biggest improvement I've heard of is that they adjusted the appearance of the night sky to be an exact replica of how the stars looked that night on The Titanic in the North Atlantic.
It's beautiful and it always will be.
This was one of the most hilarious movies I've seen lately. It is a quality film because of its nearly-satyric humor, parodies, and how it addresses the stereotypes it uses. 21 Jump Street is better than most teen-comedies in the sense that it is non-traditional and has a more genuine feel than most, which is ironic because the leads, Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum, play two cops who are pretending to be high-schoolers in order to break-up an illegal drug-ring.
This film really proves an increase in the ability of Hill's acting (along with his more serious recent role in Money Ball). If you think that means that there won't be the token hilarious intoxication scene, you are wrong, 21 Jump Street doesn't disappoint.
Also, Channing Tatum is not just a guy that can take his shirt off in movies for a good rating. His comedic abilities were truly impressive. If I could tell you to see this movie for one reason, it would be to see Tatum's comedy for yourself!
This movie also really rocks because: a) the love interest doesn't look like a barbie, she's sweet and deep, b) there is a genuine portrayal of a change of time, high schools have changed (when you go back to highschool, the unexpected WILL happen), and c) there is a very awesome celebrity appearance at the end that really makes the whole movie worth while.
Mirror Mirror
I don't have too much to say about this film, other than don't read reviews of it before you go. I did, and it really spoiled how beautiful the costumes, special effects, make-up, etc. were. It is gorgeous, if you don't like fairytales, don't go see it, if you do, watch it and love it (no thanks to Roger Ebert)!
The Titanic in 3D
This movie is amazing, no matter whether it's on a giant screen in 3D or if you're watching it on cable interrupted by a billion commercials. It is one of the best movies ever made, in my opinion, especially if you feel emotion and aren't some weird robot, no offense. The acting is phenomenal, the cinematography is awe-inspiring, the music is perfection...be still my beating heart.
Here's my verdict of this recent release: It's beautiful that a whole new generation gets to see it on the big screen, but it really doesn't need to be in 3D (because it wasn't shot in 3D originally, the effects aren't all that impressive). The biggest improvement I've heard of is that they adjusted the appearance of the night sky to be an exact replica of how the stars looked that night on The Titanic in the North Atlantic.
It's beautiful and it always will be.
More on John Carter...sorry it's a bit delayed
Disney rarely disappoints, in my opinion, and John Carter was no exception. Despite the fact that the advertising department did not do the best job of portraying what this film was actually about, within the first twenty minutes of sitting down in the theater, the makers of this movie more than made up for it.
This could get me in trouble, but I'll go out there and say that this movie was more enjoyable than all of the Star Wars I have ever watched (and DEFINITELY Avatar...fell asleep during that one twice)! Now, I can tell you that if you don't appreciate the science-fiction genre, you may not like this one, however, it involves a plot that is far more than just sci-fi. (Although, most of the sci-fi we all know today has developed because of the existence of the John Carter stories written by Edgar Rice Burroughs (b.1875).)
John Carter of Mars is an adventure to a new world, in which, you guessed it, the main character is none other than John Carter. He meets new species, makes new friends (and new enemies, of course), meets a girl, saves the girl, etc....and arguably saves the entire planet of Mars within the story of his universe.
It wasn't so much the story that won me over on John Carter as it was the character development, casting, make-up, and the uber impressive CGI (computer-generated images). This film goes far beyond the typical Disney set of characters: bad guy, good guy, princess, and fairytale ending, although it absolutely covers them all...but in a far more suspenseful, sophisticated, and most importantly, entertaining way.
I applaud the casting of this film. The main characters are played by actors and actresses that are not particularly well known, which really adds to the believability of the story. With performers that an audience hasn't yet seen over and over, it supplies the viewers of this film with the opportunity to see a story unfold without rating the actors based on their performances in other roles.
If you are looking for an adventure, love story, mystery, and all-around well-told story, go watch John Carter of Mars. I would suggest it to almost anyone!
For more information on the film, please check out IMDb's listing for this movie.
Thank you for reading/following!
This could get me in trouble, but I'll go out there and say that this movie was more enjoyable than all of the Star Wars I have ever watched (and DEFINITELY Avatar...fell asleep during that one twice)! Now, I can tell you that if you don't appreciate the science-fiction genre, you may not like this one, however, it involves a plot that is far more than just sci-fi. (Although, most of the sci-fi we all know today has developed because of the existence of the John Carter stories written by Edgar Rice Burroughs (b.1875).)
John Carter of Mars is an adventure to a new world, in which, you guessed it, the main character is none other than John Carter. He meets new species, makes new friends (and new enemies, of course), meets a girl, saves the girl, etc....and arguably saves the entire planet of Mars within the story of his universe.
It wasn't so much the story that won me over on John Carter as it was the character development, casting, make-up, and the uber impressive CGI (computer-generated images). This film goes far beyond the typical Disney set of characters: bad guy, good guy, princess, and fairytale ending, although it absolutely covers them all...but in a far more suspenseful, sophisticated, and most importantly, entertaining way.
I applaud the casting of this film. The main characters are played by actors and actresses that are not particularly well known, which really adds to the believability of the story. With performers that an audience hasn't yet seen over and over, it supplies the viewers of this film with the opportunity to see a story unfold without rating the actors based on their performances in other roles.
If you are looking for an adventure, love story, mystery, and all-around well-told story, go watch John Carter of Mars. I would suggest it to almost anyone!
For more information on the film, please check out IMDb's listing for this movie.
Thank you for reading/following!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
The movies of spring break! I saved the best for last...
Wanderlust:
-This film was just what the new comedy genre needed. If you like Paul Rudd's style, this movie is perfect. It's silly, wild, and unexpected. It wasn't the most amazing movie I've seen recently, but it isn't a waste of time, especially if you're looking for a laugh from some of the best, lesser-known comedians the industry has to offer!
-I'd suggest this one to those of you who liked Our Idiot Brother but wanted something a little more funny.
I Don't Know How She Does It:
-If you don't like Sarah Jessica Parker's acting style, you won't like this one, that's my guess. It wasn't the most amazing film, however, if you enjoy a strong career woman and some witty writing, this one was pretty good. It's an enjoyable watch.
-If you liked Did You Hear About the Morgans, you'd probably like this one too.
One Day:
-I wasn't exactly sure what to think of this one when I initially started watching it. It had the potential to be excellent, but the fake English accent that Anne Hathaway put on threw me. It had a lovely idea: two people ripped apart and brought back together, time and time again by friendship and destiny. It is sad and deep, but it still seemed artificial in some parts, which just brings me back to Hathaway's accent.
-I'd suggest this one to people who liked Wuthering Heights (yes, I'm actually referring to the Bronte book here).
The older, but not too much older movies:
The Kids Are Alright:
-Some really excellent performances and character development/progression in this movie. I'd been meaning to watch this one since it came out in 2010. For anyone who isn't familiar, it's the story of a family with lesbian parents who have to deal with the new presence of their sperm-donor, nearly twenty years after the birth of their first child. This film had a beautiful and complex plot. Great writing too.
-I'd recommend this one to anyone who enjoys the work of Julianne Moore in a serious role (although, she absolutely takes the cake in 30 Rock).
A Single Man:
-I think this is one of the most profound movies I've seen lately. Colin Firth does a completely phenomenal job in this film. It is flawless: casting, costume design, cinematography, directing, writing and obviously acting! It takes place in the 1960s in Los Angeles and chronicles one monumental day in the life of George, as he revisits the most important moments of his existence.
-If you haven't already seen it, go rent it! Do it. I'd recommend this one to anyone who is looking for an amazing film that is worth the time. (I liked it as much as The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, that's a ton!)
-This film was just what the new comedy genre needed. If you like Paul Rudd's style, this movie is perfect. It's silly, wild, and unexpected. It wasn't the most amazing movie I've seen recently, but it isn't a waste of time, especially if you're looking for a laugh from some of the best, lesser-known comedians the industry has to offer!
-I'd suggest this one to those of you who liked Our Idiot Brother but wanted something a little more funny.
I Don't Know How She Does It:
-If you don't like Sarah Jessica Parker's acting style, you won't like this one, that's my guess. It wasn't the most amazing film, however, if you enjoy a strong career woman and some witty writing, this one was pretty good. It's an enjoyable watch.
-If you liked Did You Hear About the Morgans, you'd probably like this one too.
One Day:
-I wasn't exactly sure what to think of this one when I initially started watching it. It had the potential to be excellent, but the fake English accent that Anne Hathaway put on threw me. It had a lovely idea: two people ripped apart and brought back together, time and time again by friendship and destiny. It is sad and deep, but it still seemed artificial in some parts, which just brings me back to Hathaway's accent.
-I'd suggest this one to people who liked Wuthering Heights (yes, I'm actually referring to the Bronte book here).
The older, but not too much older movies:
The Kids Are Alright:
-Some really excellent performances and character development/progression in this movie. I'd been meaning to watch this one since it came out in 2010. For anyone who isn't familiar, it's the story of a family with lesbian parents who have to deal with the new presence of their sperm-donor, nearly twenty years after the birth of their first child. This film had a beautiful and complex plot. Great writing too.
-I'd recommend this one to anyone who enjoys the work of Julianne Moore in a serious role (although, she absolutely takes the cake in 30 Rock).
A Single Man:
-I think this is one of the most profound movies I've seen lately. Colin Firth does a completely phenomenal job in this film. It is flawless: casting, costume design, cinematography, directing, writing and obviously acting! It takes place in the 1960s in Los Angeles and chronicles one monumental day in the life of George, as he revisits the most important moments of his existence.
-If you haven't already seen it, go rent it! Do it. I'd recommend this one to anyone who is looking for an amazing film that is worth the time. (I liked it as much as The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, that's a ton!)
Monday, February 20, 2012
This Means War: A Date Night Movie for the Whole Audience
What girl doesn’t dream of two handsome
men fighting for her affection at one point in her life? In a movie with Reese Witherspoon as
its leading lady, one might automatically assume that the film being reviewed
here is some sappy chick-flick with a tearjerker ending, but anyone who has
seen the trailers for her most recent film, This
Means War, knows that it’s clearly not a chick-flick.
Why is this 2012 blockbuster not just the
average romantic-comedy that only the typical female movie-viewer can
enjoy? Here’s your answer: The
first scene involves a C.I.A. bust of an illegal deal, taking place in a glamorous
private club crawling with beautiful women. This is followed by a sequence with action absolutely everywhere,
guns, bullets, and well-executed stunts in nearly every frame. Though the love stories contained in
the plot are slow to start, the beginning of this film is sure to grab nearly
everyone’s attention.
The plot starts to come together when
Lauren Scott (played by Reese Witherspoon) soon enters as a successful woman
with everything, including a conveniently hilarious best friend, Trish (played
by comedian Chelsea Handler), except a boyfriend. As Trish sets her up on a dating website, Lauren reluctantly
explores her possibilities, and to her surprise, finds Tuck (Tom Hardy), a sweet
and good-looking British “travel agent.”
Of course, as she would in any film of this genre, Lauren goes out with
him and meanwhile, bumps into his best friend, F.D.R. (Chris Pine), who also
ends up taking her out for a date, not without the use of his smooth and witty
charm.
Things get sticky when these two C.I.A.
agents, Tuck and F.D.R., realize that they are dating the same girl, especially
since it was F.D.R. who convinced Tuck to start dating again. The friends decide that they both want
the girl, and make a “gentlemen’s agreement” that they will both keep seeing
her and come to the conclusion, “may the best man win.” Literally spy vs. spy, they both
hilariously attempt to win her affection by using their C.I.A. ties to secretly
survey Lauren in order to get the scoop on everything she likes and thinks
about both of them. This spying
all begins in an impressive, heavily choreographed sequence in which the two
spies investigate her private life while avoiding her gaze as she, in true
bubbly Witherspoon fashion, dances around, unaware of just how close her beaus
are. This surveillance leads to
some extravagant dates as well as embarrassing confessions to Trish about both of
her flames. It all goes smashingly
well until Lauren finds out about the boys’ little agreement and the movie
comes to a close with a thrilling ending, because it wouldn’t be complete
without one last action sequence. And
of course, Lauren gets her man after following the wise advice of Trish, “Don't
go with the better guy, go with the guy that makes you better.”
Directed by McG (executive producer of
television’s action-packed shows, CW’s Nikita
and Supernatural), this film is a
win-win situation for the audience as well as the characters created within it. Though it could have turned out to be
an average romantic-comedy with corny writing, it really didn’t thanks to the
acting and comedic abilities of the central cast, Witherspoon, Handler, Hardy,
and Pine, as well a truly original story created by Timothy Dowling, Simon
Kinburg, and Marcus Gautesen.
With a polished cinematography style and a plot that keeps the audience
wondering until its final moments, This
Means War is a ticket worth the money for the whole audience on date night. Thank you for reading!
I credit this work to myself, Maria NeCastro
Sunday, February 19, 2012
More movies I've seen recently
This Means War
-You cannot go wrong with this one, it's really a crowd-pleaser for the whole audience on date night. & the Valentine's Day release, brilliant move!
-I would recommend this one to fans of, coincidentally, Date Night!
The Rum Diaries
-I wasn't expecting to like this one, but it surprised me. The writing is brilliant as well as the acting, not just by Depp, though he doesn't disappoint! It does an excellent job of capturing the escapades of a 1960s journalist in Puerto Rico. The costumes are wonderful.
-If you liked J. Edgar, you'd probably enjoy this one too!
The Secret World of Arrietty
This film from Disney and Studio Ghibli (Japanese creators of Spirited Away) has an absolutely gorgeous animation style, much like moving paint. It asks the imagination to take a trip into the world of a tiny "borrower" (the size of a mouse, in human form, much like Thumbelina) as she, Arrietty, tries to help her family when her actions lead to a human discovering their existence.
-I would recommend this one to anyone who enjoys all that animated films have to offer.
(P.S. If that didn't sell you, it features the famous voices of Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, and Carol Burnett!)
Look for my This Means War review tomorrow!
Thank you for reading!
-You cannot go wrong with this one, it's really a crowd-pleaser for the whole audience on date night. & the Valentine's Day release, brilliant move!
-I would recommend this one to fans of, coincidentally, Date Night!
The Rum Diaries
-I wasn't expecting to like this one, but it surprised me. The writing is brilliant as well as the acting, not just by Depp, though he doesn't disappoint! It does an excellent job of capturing the escapades of a 1960s journalist in Puerto Rico. The costumes are wonderful.
-If you liked J. Edgar, you'd probably enjoy this one too!
The Secret World of Arrietty
This film from Disney and Studio Ghibli (Japanese creators of Spirited Away) has an absolutely gorgeous animation style, much like moving paint. It asks the imagination to take a trip into the world of a tiny "borrower" (the size of a mouse, in human form, much like Thumbelina) as she, Arrietty, tries to help her family when her actions lead to a human discovering their existence.
-I would recommend this one to anyone who enjoys all that animated films have to offer.
(P.S. If that didn't sell you, it features the famous voices of Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, and Carol Burnett!)
Look for my This Means War review tomorrow!
Thank you for reading!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
A few movies I've seen recently
Most recently, I have seen (in chronological order starting on Friday) Safe House, What's Your Number?, Another Earth, and The Vow.
The best and most mentally stimulating: Another Earth (a Redbox pick)
-you might like this if you enjoy: The Twilight Zone (vintage episodes)
The good mood-booster: What's Your Number?
-you might enjoy this if you like: Friends With Benefits
The thoughtful and sweet pick: The Vow
-you might enjoy this one if you like movies in which Rachel McAdams' character has memory problems...such as: The Notebook
The intense one with really good acting that I probably wouldn't watch again: Safe House
-if you're someone who likes guns, car-chases, and a lack of a strong female in a movie with guns and car-chases...this one is for you!
Thanks for reading!
The best and most mentally stimulating: Another Earth (a Redbox pick)
-you might like this if you enjoy: The Twilight Zone (vintage episodes)
The good mood-booster: What's Your Number?
-you might enjoy this if you like: Friends With Benefits
The thoughtful and sweet pick: The Vow
-you might enjoy this one if you like movies in which Rachel McAdams' character has memory problems...such as: The Notebook
The intense one with really good acting that I probably wouldn't watch again: Safe House
-if you're someone who likes guns, car-chases, and a lack of a strong female in a movie with guns and car-chases...this one is for you!
Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Power Makes the Predator in Chronicle
“Why
not?” seems to be the question Chronicle director and co-writer, Josh
Trank, asked when giving life to this film. The found-footage sci-fi thriller starts out slow and dark,
literally chronicling every step of Andrew Detmer’s (Dane DeHaan) life and quickly becomes a story
about the dangers that can come about when power falls into the wrong hands.
A
lonely, struggling, bullied teen in a small town with a bad home-life certainly
sounds like a character that many audiences have experienced, yet this plot
takes an unexpected turn with the addition of supernatural forces. Every second of this film is captured
in a way that few other movies have used so thoroughly, as it appears to be
entirely shot through the lenses of handheld cameras. With Andrew’s recent decision to bring his camera with him
everywhere and video record his life, the film style allows for viewers to
really experience the whole film as though they are seeing it through his
eyes.
While
at a party to which his cousin Matt (Alex Russell) brought him out of sympathy, Andrew
is recruited by his cousin’s ambitious and outgoing friend, Steve (Michael B. Jordan), to record something strange that
they found in the forest near the party.
Though reluctant to help, Andrew agrees and the dark picture of his life
starts to become brighter.
After
their strange encounter in the woods, the boys quickly become very good friends,
especially when they realize that they all have come to share the power of
telekinesis from the strange occurrence they recorded. They all appear to be
having fun, learning all about, and making light of, what they can do with
their powers as Steve reads from his smartphone,
“Telekinesis: The ability to move, lift, vibrate —that's my favorite (laughs)—
spin, bend, break or impact objects through the direct influence of mental power
or other non-physical means.” Just
as any group of teenagers would do, Andrew, Matt, and Steve play with their
powers, using toys and playing little tricks to get a laugh out of their
circumstances, adding to the realism of Trank’s portrayal.
Their lives all seem to be improving, particularly Andrew’s,
as he becomes more confident and outgoing, less affected by the troubles his
abusive father pushes on him; however, it all comes to a screeching halt when
Andrew goes beyond their usual playful use for their power and rolls a speeding
car into a ditch without warning.
Eventually, they find that they need rules when dealing with so much
responsibility, and this is when the characters start to look at their
abilities in a different light.
Though the movie seems to bend back towards happier times, it
seems impossible that they can last when a series of events causes Andrew to
regress into a state of misery, eventually leading to pure rage. He practices his ability of destruction
as would a psychopath-in-the-making, killing a spider by bringing it into the
air and dismembering all of its limbs.
He calls himself an “apex predator” or a predator with no predators of
its own, and one can only imagine where he goes from there.
Chronicle
is a contemporary tale that teaches the age-old moral that with great power
comes great responsibility. Though
its science-fiction nature and nearly unthinkable circumstances may seem impossible
to imagine, this film’s cinematographic storytelling allows the viewer to
become completely immersed into the riveting conclusion of this chronicle. The
actors who played the main characters (Andrew, Matt, and Steve) have not
appeared in many films, which allows the viewer to believe that they are
following not some actor in a role, but rather a character experiencing an
amazing set of circumstances. With its cast, film style, and directing, Chronicle
is a movie that feels far more substantial than its eighty-three minute
playtime. The true meaning of the
film seems to be that without enough nurturing and understanding, anyone can
turn into the darkest form of themselves, a predator beyond all reasoning.
(I wrote this for a class, but to not be accused of plagiarism, I credit the words above to myself: Maria NeCastro.)
Thursday, February 2, 2012
This Week's Best and Worst
On Sunday night I watched one of the most endearing films that I can remember seeing recently. Midnight In Paris features a really amazing cast (including: Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard, and Kathy Bates to name a few) and was directed and written by Woody Allen. Normally I am not a fan of Allen's work, but this had a superior artistic touch that really deserves some attention. I would recommend this film to anyone!
Within the past week, I have had the extreme inconvenience of watching a flop from 2011, known as Immortals. I could not find one nice thing to say about it. My constructive criticism includes this, however: 1) the costumes and music should have been more in an authentic ancient Greek theme, 2) there should have been more female gods (goddesses) included in the plot. (The motivational speech given to an army was reminiscent of a football coach's pep talk before a big game...appropriate? Who knows?)
I don't normally grade movies, but this one deserves a D- (for sure).
Thanks for reading/following!
Within the past week, I have had the extreme inconvenience of watching a flop from 2011, known as Immortals. I could not find one nice thing to say about it. My constructive criticism includes this, however: 1) the costumes and music should have been more in an authentic ancient Greek theme, 2) there should have been more female gods (goddesses) included in the plot. (The motivational speech given to an army was reminiscent of a football coach's pep talk before a big game...appropriate? Who knows?)
I don't normally grade movies, but this one deserves a D- (for sure).
Thanks for reading/following!
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
The Descendants Review
“Give your children enough money to do something, but not enough to do nothing,” says Matt King, who is played by George Clooney in the 2012 Golden Globes Best Motion Picture. A thoughtful and realistic statement that many a parent has probably thought in their lifetime. Thoughtful and realistic: that is how I choose to describe this film.
The Descendants takes place in Hawaii...and now you may be wondering just how realistic can it be if it takes place in Hawaii. In one of King's (Clooney) voiceovers at the beginning of the film, he addresses just that, saying, "My friends think that just because we live in Hawaii, we live in paradise… Are they insane? Do they think we’re immune to life? How can they possibly think our families are less screwed up?...Hell, I haven't been on a surfboard in fifteen years." Right away, the audience knows they're in for more than just a romanticized plot and montages of the "gorgeous George" and the gorgeous shore.
This film is the story of how Matt King and his two daughters cope with a situation that is completely contrasting with the idea of paradise. Basically, Matt (who says of himself, “I’m the backup parent. The understudy.”) is thrown into the role of primary parent after living all of his life as the hard-working breadwinner for his family. Now, I would say that I cannot ever, under any circumstances, tell you what actually happened to make their lives so horrible, but it really won't ruin anything for you to hear that his wife has fallen into a coma after a boating incident. The draw of this film is mainly the acting, not so much the plot.
In addition to having to plow through one of the most difficult times of his life, Matt has to find a way to make his entire extended family happy when he is faced with his duty to sell thousands of acres of prime Hawaiian real estate that had been passed down from one of his great-great grandparents. (A bit less realistic, but it makes for some beautiful cinematography.) All the while, Matt is trying to help his daughters through the tough time they are going through with the hospitalized-state of their mother. And as if that's not enough, Mrs. King, as explained in the trailer, has been having an affair.
Now, don't think that just because Clooney is in this film means that the people in charge of casting for this film took a break. Matt's daughters, Scottie, 10, (played by the adorable Amara Miller) and Alex, 17, (played by The Secret Life of the American Teenager's Shailene Woodley) are phenomenal characters that are played by actresses that really understood their roles.
Also, in terms of the casting of this movie, there were two familiar faces from comedic roles that I wouldn't typically have thought to have seen in a drama like this. Firstly, Matthew Lillard (yes, Shaggy from the "real-people" Scooby Doo movie). Secondly, Judy Greer, who has been in basically every popular sitcom for the past five years. (They both play parts that I won't spoil for you here, but their acting in such serious roles will probably impress you.)
For me, this movie was full of great acting that was thoughtful and realistic. Clooney, for once, does not play a cocky man in a suit, and though I normally despise him, and I am willing to admit that he did an excellent job in his role as Matt King. The film was deep and emotional, just as you'd suspect with all of the conflicts, however, I'm not sure that I'd call it a "must-see" for people of generation Y. It was good but forgettable.
(This was one for the baby-boomers, which explains why it won at the Golden Globes.)
For more information on the film, please visit: IMDb: The Descendants.
Thanks for reading/visiting/following!
The Descendants takes place in Hawaii...and now you may be wondering just how realistic can it be if it takes place in Hawaii. In one of King's (Clooney) voiceovers at the beginning of the film, he addresses just that, saying, "My friends think that just because we live in Hawaii, we live in paradise… Are they insane? Do they think we’re immune to life? How can they possibly think our families are less screwed up?...Hell, I haven't been on a surfboard in fifteen years." Right away, the audience knows they're in for more than just a romanticized plot and montages of the "gorgeous George" and the gorgeous shore.
This film is the story of how Matt King and his two daughters cope with a situation that is completely contrasting with the idea of paradise. Basically, Matt (who says of himself, “I’m the backup parent. The understudy.”) is thrown into the role of primary parent after living all of his life as the hard-working breadwinner for his family. Now, I would say that I cannot ever, under any circumstances, tell you what actually happened to make their lives so horrible, but it really won't ruin anything for you to hear that his wife has fallen into a coma after a boating incident. The draw of this film is mainly the acting, not so much the plot.
In addition to having to plow through one of the most difficult times of his life, Matt has to find a way to make his entire extended family happy when he is faced with his duty to sell thousands of acres of prime Hawaiian real estate that had been passed down from one of his great-great grandparents. (A bit less realistic, but it makes for some beautiful cinematography.) All the while, Matt is trying to help his daughters through the tough time they are going through with the hospitalized-state of their mother. And as if that's not enough, Mrs. King, as explained in the trailer, has been having an affair.
Now, don't think that just because Clooney is in this film means that the people in charge of casting for this film took a break. Matt's daughters, Scottie, 10, (played by the adorable Amara Miller) and Alex, 17, (played by The Secret Life of the American Teenager's Shailene Woodley) are phenomenal characters that are played by actresses that really understood their roles.
Also, in terms of the casting of this movie, there were two familiar faces from comedic roles that I wouldn't typically have thought to have seen in a drama like this. Firstly, Matthew Lillard (yes, Shaggy from the "real-people" Scooby Doo movie). Secondly, Judy Greer, who has been in basically every popular sitcom for the past five years. (They both play parts that I won't spoil for you here, but their acting in such serious roles will probably impress you.)
For me, this movie was full of great acting that was thoughtful and realistic. Clooney, for once, does not play a cocky man in a suit, and though I normally despise him, and I am willing to admit that he did an excellent job in his role as Matt King. The film was deep and emotional, just as you'd suspect with all of the conflicts, however, I'm not sure that I'd call it a "must-see" for people of generation Y. It was good but forgettable.
(This was one for the baby-boomers, which explains why it won at the Golden Globes.)
For more information on the film, please visit: IMDb: The Descendants.
Thanks for reading/visiting/following!
Thursday, January 26, 2012
My Favorite Movies from 2011
Over the past year I saw plenty of movies that I would recommend and I couldn't go any longer without listing them for you. Here they are!
-Hugo
-The Big Year
-The Muppets
-Drive
-Contagion
-J. Edgar
-The Help
-The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
-The Adjustment Bureau
Also, another movie that I saw for the first time this past year that isn't recent but completely brilliant: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. (& to continue in the "Jim Carrey in a serious role" theme, another excellent movie was I Love You Phillip Morris.)
-Hugo
-The Big Year
-The Muppets
-Drive
-Contagion
-J. Edgar
-The Help
-The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
-The Adjustment Bureau
Also, another movie that I saw for the first time this past year that isn't recent but completely brilliant: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. (& to continue in the "Jim Carrey in a serious role" theme, another excellent movie was I Love You Phillip Morris.)
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Review
“If the sun were to explode, we wouldn’t even know about it for eight minutes,” says Oskar Schell, an 11-year-old who has been traumatized by the 9/11 death of his father. This film is the emotional story of how Oskar tries to stretch his theoretical eight minutes with his father.
Oskar stretches his eight minutes well in this two-hour film and sets his audience on a venture full of tears. As he proves to the viewers with great catharsis, no matter how difficult the journey may be, never stop looking until the answer has been found. It is worth it. Always an excellent "moral of the story."
Furthermore:
This movie was incredible. I don't just say that because it's in the title.
It was on the same level as 2011's Hugo in my book. That's as good as it gets.
This review would not be complete without the mention of the amazing acting of Zoe Caldwell as Thomas' mother and Max von Sydow "the renter" (a character that I really cannot spoil for you here).
Please visit IMDb: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close for more information on the film.
Thank you for reading/following!
Oskar Schell (played by the champion of Kids Week Jeapordy, Thomas Horn) sets off on a journey to find any possible links to his father. In the mind of a socially awkward 11-year-old, one would obviously attempt to seek out their father by finding the owner of a key that they found in the deceased closet. Right?
This is what his mission is: finding the lock that fits this mystery-key to stretch the connection that he had with his father. (One may wonder why Oskar would go through all of this trouble throughout a whole movie. Simple answer: he and his father played "reconnoissance games." The movie starts with Thomas and Oskar looking for the "sixth borough of New York.")
How do you make that a into movie? If I were to insert my own opinion here before actually watching Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, I would say that this sounds more like a sad short story than a film that deserves some Oscars. The creators, directors, writers, and actors, however, all answer my question in a way that still makes me want to inform everyone to see this movie right away.
One major way that this story becomes the award-deserving film that is now in theaters is by casting America's cinema royalty in two of the most key roles: the mother (Linda) and father (Thomas) of Oskar Schell (played by Sandra Bullock and Tom Hanks, respectively).
Undoubtedly, 9/11 is a difficult subject to make a movie about. Others have tried, and I will not lie, I always had a strange feeling about the films that I've seen that are about the event. Sometimes, it is just poor taste, other times it seems too soon. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, as far as I am concerned, took this issue into a great amount of thought and did not disappoint.
The casting, as I have mentioned before, makes this film, truly because these actors really seemed to play their roles in ways that are respectful of the event. Furthermore, when the falling Twin Towers are shown on-screen, it is somber, especially watching it when following the powerful journey that Oskar is on. I could almost grasp onto some of the emotions he would have felt. (I know there are some negative reviews of the film because of the subject matter that I have just discussed, and I cannot argue with them. All I can say is that this film is respectful of what they were talking about.)
It may be hard to move beyond the underlying theme of tragedy, however, there is far more to this film than just sorrowful moments. Along Oskar's journey to find the lock to his father's key, he meets hundreds of people (all with the last name Black and all living in the NYC area, as the key was in an envelope with just one word written on it: Black). Each of these people he meets gives him something to remember them by, whether he wants to or not. With every visit, he takes a picture and adds it to a scrapbook that creatively documents all of his searching.
Oskar stretches his eight minutes well in this two-hour film and sets his audience on a venture full of tears. As he proves to the viewers with great catharsis, no matter how difficult the journey may be, never stop looking until the answer has been found. It is worth it. Always an excellent "moral of the story."
Furthermore:
This movie was incredible. I don't just say that because it's in the title.
It was on the same level as 2011's Hugo in my book. That's as good as it gets.
This review would not be complete without the mention of the amazing acting of Zoe Caldwell as Thomas' mother and Max von Sydow "the renter" (a character that I really cannot spoil for you here).
Please visit IMDb: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close for more information on the film.
Thank you for reading/following!
TV Picks
I would be lying if I said that I didn't watch my fair share of TV. Basically, it's my favorite pastime...ever. I feel like I should have something to show for my dedication to the small-screen beyond just my tumblr.com reblogs of favorite TV clips.
So, for you, here is a list of my favorite things to watch (besides movies).
Seriously amazing television list:
Sherlock (BBC)
Misfits (found on Hulu)
Nip/Tuck (off the air, now on Netflix)
I will never stop watching:
Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
Private Practice (ABC)
30 Rock (NBC)
House (Fox)
The Office (NBC)
Chelsea Lately (E!)
SNL (NBC)
Guilty pleasures:
Glee (Fox)
[Anything Kardashian] (E!)
Recent discoveries that I cannot get enough of:
Up All Night (NBC)
Whitney (NBC)
Nikita (CW)
Sherlock (I already listed that, but it's amazing)
& my favorite place to get my news:
The Colbert Report (Comedy Central)
(I will probably have a review up for Sherlock within the next week. It may be considered television, but each episode is about an hour and a half, which earns it movie cred. in my book.)
So, for you, here is a list of my favorite things to watch (besides movies).
Seriously amazing television list:
Sherlock (BBC)
Misfits (found on Hulu)
Nip/Tuck (off the air, now on Netflix)
I will never stop watching:
Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
Private Practice (ABC)
30 Rock (NBC)
House (Fox)
The Office (NBC)
Chelsea Lately (E!)
SNL (NBC)
Guilty pleasures:
Glee (Fox)
[Anything Kardashian] (E!)
Recent discoveries that I cannot get enough of:
Up All Night (NBC)
Whitney (NBC)
Nikita (CW)
Sherlock (I already listed that, but it's amazing)
& my favorite place to get my news:
The Colbert Report (Comedy Central)
(I will probably have a review up for Sherlock within the next week. It may be considered television, but each episode is about an hour and a half, which earns it movie cred. in my book.)
I've been told to never apologize for anything I feel passionately about...but I owe you something (like a restaurant owes their customers what they paid for).
Since you've paid me a visit, I owe you the best reviews I can give.
To explain my past posts: I started this blog for practice and for fun.
I want to do more with it though, so I am going to do more than a 12-year-old with a gel pen and a sparkly journal!
I want to do more with it though, so I am going to do more than a 12-year-old with a gel pen and a sparkly journal!
(Someday I really do want to write professionally, so I need to step up my game. Now I will. Game on/challenge accepted!)
If you have any suggestions for me, let me know!
Thank you again for reading/following!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The Help Review
Okay, so I know this is already in Redbox...but it was a phenomenal story, so I couldn't bear not writing about it.
To start with, let me say that I am an enormous Emma Stone fan, so I went into the viewing experience with high hopes, which were indeed met.
Stone plays an aspiring writer, Skeeter, returned from college and living in a Mississippi town---smack-dab in the middle of when the Civil Rights movement was taking place.
The film focuses on the mission Skeeter goes on in order to write a book from the point of view of the help (which in that day and age were all African American citizens in the South).
The help is made up of a truly extraordinary cast! I'm not just saying it because Octavia Spencer, who plays the housekeeper, Mini, recently got some majorly deserved recognition at the Golden Globes on Sunday.
In addition, I thought that Viola Davis really deserved some big awards for her role as the maid and nanny known as Aibileen Clark, who has raised 17 children over her career in Jacksonville, Mississippi. (Also, her fantastic voice narrates the film and really helps the viewer experience the real story.)
To go into further detail about Aibileen, she and Mini are really the central maids that Skeeter focuses on when she initially starts writing her book. Skeeter learns all the ups and (mostly) downs of what it is like to be the typical maid/nanny/housekeeper in the South.
Now, one cannot discuss this movie without mentioning the mega-antagonist: Hilly Holbrook, who has decided recently that it is basically her mission from God to enforce the Home Help Sanitation Initiative. Hilly is the devil in disguise, to quote Elvis and give my opinion all at the same time. One could almost say, "Raise your hand if you've ever been personally victimized by Hilly Holbrook." (Yes, that was a reference to Mean Girls' Regina George: "and evil takes human form in..." I am proud right now.)
Like any movie with someone so catty and evil, there will almost always be the much needed revenge scene...in this case, I am absolutely thinking of Miss Mini's pie! (I won't spoil it for anyone who hasn't seen it, but it is a part that will really will stick with you if you have!)
Hilly's mother is played by the amazing Sissy Spacek! She has quite a great time rubbing her daughter's face in all the wrong Hilly has done and does it with an awesome performance.
Finally, this post wouldn't be complete without mentioning the performances of Skeeter's mom (played by Allison Janney...yep, Juno's stepmom), Miss Celia Foote (Jessica Chastain), and the ever-handsome Stewart Whitworth...Skeeter's boyfriend for the later half of the movie (played by Chris Lowell)!
They all give performances that I wouldn't want to spoil for you! They really round out the movie and make it worth your while.
I really encourage anyone who hasn't seen this film to watch it a soon a possible...and anyone who has and liked it...to watch it again!
For more information on the movie, please visit: IMDb-The Help (2011)
Thanks for reading!
To start with, let me say that I am an enormous Emma Stone fan, so I went into the viewing experience with high hopes, which were indeed met.
Stone plays an aspiring writer, Skeeter, returned from college and living in a Mississippi town---smack-dab in the middle of when the Civil Rights movement was taking place.
The film focuses on the mission Skeeter goes on in order to write a book from the point of view of the help (which in that day and age were all African American citizens in the South).
The help is made up of a truly extraordinary cast! I'm not just saying it because Octavia Spencer, who plays the housekeeper, Mini, recently got some majorly deserved recognition at the Golden Globes on Sunday.
In addition, I thought that Viola Davis really deserved some big awards for her role as the maid and nanny known as Aibileen Clark, who has raised 17 children over her career in Jacksonville, Mississippi. (Also, her fantastic voice narrates the film and really helps the viewer experience the real story.)
To go into further detail about Aibileen, she and Mini are really the central maids that Skeeter focuses on when she initially starts writing her book. Skeeter learns all the ups and (mostly) downs of what it is like to be the typical maid/nanny/housekeeper in the South.
Now, one cannot discuss this movie without mentioning the mega-antagonist: Hilly Holbrook, who has decided recently that it is basically her mission from God to enforce the Home Help Sanitation Initiative. Hilly is the devil in disguise, to quote Elvis and give my opinion all at the same time. One could almost say, "Raise your hand if you've ever been personally victimized by Hilly Holbrook." (Yes, that was a reference to Mean Girls' Regina George: "and evil takes human form in..." I am proud right now.)
Like any movie with someone so catty and evil, there will almost always be the much needed revenge scene...in this case, I am absolutely thinking of Miss Mini's pie! (I won't spoil it for anyone who hasn't seen it, but it is a part that will really will stick with you if you have!)
Hilly's mother is played by the amazing Sissy Spacek! She has quite a great time rubbing her daughter's face in all the wrong Hilly has done and does it with an awesome performance.
Finally, this post wouldn't be complete without mentioning the performances of Skeeter's mom (played by Allison Janney...yep, Juno's stepmom), Miss Celia Foote (Jessica Chastain), and the ever-handsome Stewart Whitworth...Skeeter's boyfriend for the later half of the movie (played by Chris Lowell)!
They all give performances that I wouldn't want to spoil for you! They really round out the movie and make it worth your while.
I really encourage anyone who hasn't seen this film to watch it a soon a possible...and anyone who has and liked it...to watch it again!
For more information on the movie, please visit: IMDb-The Help (2011)
Thanks for reading!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
The Darkest Hour Review
I should have just trusted my gut reaction to the preview on this one.
The plot: invisible wave-energy alien creatures come to harvest the earth's natural resources. Few are left alive when these aliens get to human territory, as shown in the film's main setting: Moscow, Russia.
Okay, so there is a lot you can do with a plot-line like this... apocalyptic setting, beautiful young people, and hope that somewhere in the world is safe.
It had the potential to be really good, espcially with monsters that make you afraid of the light, not the dark. (They have electrical currents, which lights up anything electrical it passes in the dark...giving it away.)
I wish that the cast had more variety...or tallent. (I'm not saying I could do a better job by any means, I just think that they would be more suitable for a high school drama than this plot.)
I wasn't a fan of the cinematography style, but the special effects in terms of when the aliens got ahold of the humans...that was impressive stuff (check it out)...other than that...the aliens needed some serious work. (This could be because I saw the film in 2-D and it was originally intended for 3-D viewing...either way, they should make a better effort.)
The supporting characters were great, especially the brilliant scientist who found out a perfect way to hide from and defeat some of the aliens. The Russian army men as well as the scientists companion also greatly helped the film.
Like last years Limitless, this film was not as good as it could have been. It made a good try...better luck next time.
For more information on the film, please visit: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1093357/
The plot: invisible wave-energy alien creatures come to harvest the earth's natural resources. Few are left alive when these aliens get to human territory, as shown in the film's main setting: Moscow, Russia.
Okay, so there is a lot you can do with a plot-line like this... apocalyptic setting, beautiful young people, and hope that somewhere in the world is safe.
It had the potential to be really good, espcially with monsters that make you afraid of the light, not the dark. (They have electrical currents, which lights up anything electrical it passes in the dark...giving it away.)
I wish that the cast had more variety...or tallent. (I'm not saying I could do a better job by any means, I just think that they would be more suitable for a high school drama than this plot.)
I wasn't a fan of the cinematography style, but the special effects in terms of when the aliens got ahold of the humans...that was impressive stuff (check it out)...other than that...the aliens needed some serious work. (This could be because I saw the film in 2-D and it was originally intended for 3-D viewing...either way, they should make a better effort.)
The supporting characters were great, especially the brilliant scientist who found out a perfect way to hide from and defeat some of the aliens. The Russian army men as well as the scientists companion also greatly helped the film.
Like last years Limitless, this film was not as good as it could have been. It made a good try...better luck next time.
For more information on the film, please visit: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1093357/
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Review of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
So, this is my first post! Recently, I've proclaimed myself a bit of a movie-buff. (I'll come clean and tell you that it's mostly only been since the summer of 2011...I have seen a movie every weekend in the theater since the beginning of September, if that gives you a better idea.)
Let's get to the review, shall we?
TGWTDT was so much more than I had expected it to be. Walking in with no previous information beyond the previews, I had no clue that I was in for the dark thrill ride that this film turned out to be.
The plot starts out with a defamed journalist's (Mikael Blomkvist (played by Daniel Craig)) life during a time of great scandal and one starts to wonder how this can lead to what the previews have portrayed.
I won't lie and tell you that I absolutely loved it from the beginning to the end. It took some work and serious acting skills, which I was certainly impressed with by the end.
It really starts to pick up after he meets Henrik Vanger (the role played by Christopher Plummer) hires Mikael to do some investigative work on the death of his beloved niece. The anti-semitic and Nazi themes of European history pour into the mystery as he works on the investigation and brings in the infamous Lisbeth for help.
What captured my attention the most about this film was absolutely the actual girl with the dragon tattoo. Rooney Mara, who plays the dark Lisbeth Salander, was phenomenal! This girl, who plays Mark Zuckerburg's girlfriend in the beginning of The Social Network, becomes a completely unexpected character. She, as an actress, and Lisbeth mesh so well in to a brutal yet delicate framework of a puzzling character.
The plot, as a whole, was really among the very best I've seen in the past couple years. It is a mystery, love story (stories?), horror, suspense, action-thriller film. I don't want to spoil the plot for anyone...but it is must-see. Its scenes absolutely burst with, what I believe is, the author's original intentions for the story-line. There were several instances where I could almost read the words that would have been written in a particular chapter. It was a beautiful film and I fully appreciate the work of the author and the screen-play adapters.
I have heard that the second film does not feature Lisbeth as much, which is absolutely devastating to me! The end of the first film begins the second novel, I believe, so I am curious about how it will all turn out on the screen.
For more information, please visit IMDb's page on the film.
Thanks for reading.
Let's get to the review, shall we?
TGWTDT was so much more than I had expected it to be. Walking in with no previous information beyond the previews, I had no clue that I was in for the dark thrill ride that this film turned out to be.
The plot starts out with a defamed journalist's (Mikael Blomkvist (played by Daniel Craig)) life during a time of great scandal and one starts to wonder how this can lead to what the previews have portrayed.
I won't lie and tell you that I absolutely loved it from the beginning to the end. It took some work and serious acting skills, which I was certainly impressed with by the end.
It really starts to pick up after he meets Henrik Vanger (the role played by Christopher Plummer) hires Mikael to do some investigative work on the death of his beloved niece. The anti-semitic and Nazi themes of European history pour into the mystery as he works on the investigation and brings in the infamous Lisbeth for help.
What captured my attention the most about this film was absolutely the actual girl with the dragon tattoo. Rooney Mara, who plays the dark Lisbeth Salander, was phenomenal! This girl, who plays Mark Zuckerburg's girlfriend in the beginning of The Social Network, becomes a completely unexpected character. She, as an actress, and Lisbeth mesh so well in to a brutal yet delicate framework of a puzzling character.
The plot, as a whole, was really among the very best I've seen in the past couple years. It is a mystery, love story (stories?), horror, suspense, action-thriller film. I don't want to spoil the plot for anyone...but it is must-see. Its scenes absolutely burst with, what I believe is, the author's original intentions for the story-line. There were several instances where I could almost read the words that would have been written in a particular chapter. It was a beautiful film and I fully appreciate the work of the author and the screen-play adapters.
I have heard that the second film does not feature Lisbeth as much, which is absolutely devastating to me! The end of the first film begins the second novel, I believe, so I am curious about how it will all turn out on the screen.
For more information, please visit IMDb's page on the film.
Thanks for reading.
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