Jack the Giant Slayer
These days it seems like the pop-culture audience cannot get enough of re-imagined myths and fairy tales. This film, starring Nicholas Hoult, Ewan McGregor, and Stanley Tucci, attempts to make the story of "Jack and the Beanstalk" into an epic adventure, filled with action, danger, and an appropriate hint of romance.
The story is original, but it starts out slow. The special effects seemed a bit lacking at times, but the creativity of the world made up for it. Certain elements (sadly, including the actual beanstalk) looked bad, but the costume design, makeup, and sets really shined. Altogether, this film is fun and exciting, however, it's not really worth the price of a movie ticket.
Oz the Great and Powerful
This film had a lot riding on its shoulders. Since it was announced and marketed, many movie viewers have been skeptical about the storytelling abilities of Disney when it comes to the cherrished and honored film and story of The Wizard of Oz.
Rather than trying to retell the beloved story, Disney's screenplay writers Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire create the origin story of Oz's mysterious wizard. James Franco
plays the part of Oz and illustrates the character for the audience.
He was an excellent choice for the role, as he brings a smarmy, yet
charming wizard to life. Throughout his journey, he seems to gain
wisdom (brains), heart, and courage, the same thing that he ends up
giving to the scarecrow, tinman, and lion in the original story.
This story follows the storytelling style of the 1939 classic by bringing characters from a dreary real world into a bright and fantastical new world. The film features Zach Braff as Oz's constant companion in the worlds of his past, present, and future.
The special effects, film style, music, and setting were all amazing, as one can generally expect with a Disney film. The casting of additional characters were all great choices, including the talented and beautiful actresses, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, and Michelle Williams.
On a more serious note, the film could have earned a PG-13 rating rather than its PG, as the violence and fear tactics were very prominent and effective.
In conclusion, movie traditionalists have nothing to fear, this is a very well-made piece of cienematography. If you enjoyed Wicked for its story (not just the music), I would recommend this film.
The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
One of the funniest movies thus far in 2013, this film stars Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi, Olivia Wilde, and Jim Carrey. Though the trailers make it look like another crack at the comedian superstar-duo genre of movies (such as 2012's The Campaign or 2010's Get Him to the Greek), this movie really proves its worth throughout the whole 100 minute runtime.
Carell and Carrey live in a world of magic, but not a fantasy world. They are both world-famous magicians who make a living on the Vegas strip. Carell represents traditional magic, while Carrey is more of a street performer looking for shock value. Throughout the film they battle it out for the honor of being the biggest name in magic. Burt Wonderstone (Carell), a pompous but kind performer working against Steve Gray (Carrey), a crazy yet lovable jerk, make for an entertaining duel.
The plot was not too complicated, and that is actually what makes it worth a trip to the theater: it's good fun with a talented cast and great writing. With its themes of magic, re-imagination, and friendship, I would recommend this one to anyone looking for a great afternoon escape.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Celeste & Jesse Forever
Celeste & Jesse Forever
This dramedy features the beautiful Rashida Jones and the always hilarious Andy Samberg.
In this recent rental movie release, Jones and Samberg play a young divorcing couple, Celeste and Jesse (respectively), with a relationship that most bystanders would call "too close."
The film, directed by Lee Toland Krieger, dares to walk a line into a range of drama that can often feel too real, much like Judd Apatow's 2012 release, This Is 40. The difference between the two dramadies, however, is that Celeste & Jesse Forever was a far more palatable viewing experience.
The audience gets an insider look at the lives of these two romantically confused lovers-turned-best friends. The plot thickens time and time again with each awkward social meeting, while the writing of Jones and Will McCormack (who also plays a supporting role in the movie) shines through.
Jones does a phenomenal job working among traditional comedians in her own subtle and complementary comedic acting style. Her work in Parks and Recreation and I Love You, Man prove this star's wonderful abilities to bridge struggle with humor.
Samberg, usually thought of for his work with The Lonely Island and SNL also proved his acting chops in this film, as he brought the character of a broken-hearted artist to life.
This film wasn't exactly what I expected it to be, but with it's great leads and supporting cast, I'd certainly say it's worth a watch.
This dramedy features the beautiful Rashida Jones and the always hilarious Andy Samberg.
In this recent rental movie release, Jones and Samberg play a young divorcing couple, Celeste and Jesse (respectively), with a relationship that most bystanders would call "too close."
The film, directed by Lee Toland Krieger, dares to walk a line into a range of drama that can often feel too real, much like Judd Apatow's 2012 release, This Is 40. The difference between the two dramadies, however, is that Celeste & Jesse Forever was a far more palatable viewing experience.
The audience gets an insider look at the lives of these two romantically confused lovers-turned-best friends. The plot thickens time and time again with each awkward social meeting, while the writing of Jones and Will McCormack (who also plays a supporting role in the movie) shines through.
Jones does a phenomenal job working among traditional comedians in her own subtle and complementary comedic acting style. Her work in Parks and Recreation and I Love You, Man prove this star's wonderful abilities to bridge struggle with humor.
Samberg, usually thought of for his work with The Lonely Island and SNL also proved his acting chops in this film, as he brought the character of a broken-hearted artist to life.
This film wasn't exactly what I expected it to be, but with it's great leads and supporting cast, I'd certainly say it's worth a watch.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Side Effects
Side Effects
A screenplay written by Scott Z. Burns, the writer of 2011's thought-provoking Contagion, features the amazing acting skills of Rooney Mara, Jude Law, and Catherine Zeta-Jones in a psychological thriller that keeps the audience guessing until the final moments of the 106 minute runtime.
This film takes its audience on a journey through the minds of a psychological patient, Emily Taylor, (played by Mara) and her two psychologists, Dr. Johnathan Banks, (played by Law) and Dr. Victoria Siebert (played by Zeta-Jones).
The story details the complicated matter of the side effects of anti-depressant drugs as well as what it takes for a new anti-depressant to withstand trial.
The main character Emily is treated for depression originally by Dr. Siebert immediately after Emily's life crumbles around her when her husband, played by the ever-popular Channing Tatum, is sentenced to a prison sentence for corporate inside trading. Once he is released from prison, Emily has a suicidal scare and starts seeing Dr. Banks for psychological treatments several times per week. In this time span, Emily has several anti-depressant medications, the last of which is rumored to have side effects of sleepwalking, which brings the story a pivotal scene in which she is the lead suspect in a murder case.
Beyond that, it's all spoilers!
It was a great film with a fabulous cast, soundtrack, story, and film style. I highly recommend making it out to the theaters to see this one (especially if you enjoyed 2011's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Contagion).
Thanks for reading!
A screenplay written by Scott Z. Burns, the writer of 2011's thought-provoking Contagion, features the amazing acting skills of Rooney Mara, Jude Law, and Catherine Zeta-Jones in a psychological thriller that keeps the audience guessing until the final moments of the 106 minute runtime.
This film takes its audience on a journey through the minds of a psychological patient, Emily Taylor, (played by Mara) and her two psychologists, Dr. Johnathan Banks, (played by Law) and Dr. Victoria Siebert (played by Zeta-Jones).
The story details the complicated matter of the side effects of anti-depressant drugs as well as what it takes for a new anti-depressant to withstand trial.
The main character Emily is treated for depression originally by Dr. Siebert immediately after Emily's life crumbles around her when her husband, played by the ever-popular Channing Tatum, is sentenced to a prison sentence for corporate inside trading. Once he is released from prison, Emily has a suicidal scare and starts seeing Dr. Banks for psychological treatments several times per week. In this time span, Emily has several anti-depressant medications, the last of which is rumored to have side effects of sleepwalking, which brings the story a pivotal scene in which she is the lead suspect in a murder case.
Beyond that, it's all spoilers!
It was a great film with a fabulous cast, soundtrack, story, and film style. I highly recommend making it out to the theaters to see this one (especially if you enjoyed 2011's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Contagion).
Thanks for reading!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
What to read next:
I just saw Side Effects. Very original and surprising film. Review to come very soon.
If you haven't heard anything about it yet, here is the theatrical trailer.
Thank you for reading!
If you haven't heard anything about it yet, here is the theatrical trailer.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Identity Thief
Identity Thief
Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman both star as Sandy Patterson in this road-trip comedy in which McCarthy's character, Diana, is chased down by the real Patterson (Bateman) after she has stolen his identity.
If you have already seen the hilarious trailer for this film, there is not much material left for laughs in the 112 minute runtime. McCarthy brought all of the blunt and zany humor that was featured in the 2011 hit, Bridesmaids. Bateman's performance, on the other hand, left something to be desired (not surprising after his acting in recent releases such as The Switch and The Change-Up).
The story was surprisingly unexpected and creative. It really allowed for the thoughtfully funny writing of Craig Mazin and Jerry Eeten to shine through under the direction of Seth Gordon.
What made this film worth watching was the performances of the actors in smaller roles.
Eric Stonestreet (of Modern Family), Maggie Elizabeth Jones (of We Bought a Zoo), and Robert Patrick of (Gangster Squad) all had remarkable performances in what was otherwise an average film.
Though it certainly had some amusing scenes, a great soundtrack, and an interesting setting, I would recommend waiting until this one comes to Redbox.
Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman both star as Sandy Patterson in this road-trip comedy in which McCarthy's character, Diana, is chased down by the real Patterson (Bateman) after she has stolen his identity.
If you have already seen the hilarious trailer for this film, there is not much material left for laughs in the 112 minute runtime. McCarthy brought all of the blunt and zany humor that was featured in the 2011 hit, Bridesmaids. Bateman's performance, on the other hand, left something to be desired (not surprising after his acting in recent releases such as The Switch and The Change-Up).
The story was surprisingly unexpected and creative. It really allowed for the thoughtfully funny writing of Craig Mazin and Jerry Eeten to shine through under the direction of Seth Gordon.
What made this film worth watching was the performances of the actors in smaller roles.
Eric Stonestreet (of Modern Family), Maggie Elizabeth Jones (of We Bought a Zoo), and Robert Patrick of (Gangster Squad) all had remarkable performances in what was otherwise an average film.
Though it certainly had some amusing scenes, a great soundtrack, and an interesting setting, I would recommend waiting until this one comes to Redbox.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Warm Bodies
Warm Bodies
This movie was perfect in every quirky way. Warm Bodies tackles the supernatural romance genre in a new and entirely entertaining manner. This witty love story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, and here is the twist: the male lead is a zombie.
The zombie genre is one of the most popular in all types of films, TV shows, and video games and seems like there is no end in sight. From The Walking Dead to the upcoming release of World War Z, these undead creatures rule the small screens and the silver screens. If you ask me, it's getting to be a little tired, so I was skeptical about the release of another movie about brain eaters.
Long story short: there is no reason to be skeptical of this comedic gift from director Jonathan Levine. Warm Bodies is the perfect followup to the unfortunate cinematic era of The Twilight Saga. It tells an original story though it falls within two of the most repetitive categories of film: romance and horror.
Corny and sweet, like a John Hughes movie, this recent release is sure to please almost anyone in the audience. It brings together all of the best themes artfully, yet ironically.
I have nothing but the best to say about Warm Bodies. Great music, writing, casting, and cinematography. If you have enjoyed anything from Zombieland to The Breakfast Club, I seriously recommend a trip to the movie theater.
This movie was perfect in every quirky way. Warm Bodies tackles the supernatural romance genre in a new and entirely entertaining manner. This witty love story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, and here is the twist: the male lead is a zombie.
The zombie genre is one of the most popular in all types of films, TV shows, and video games and seems like there is no end in sight. From The Walking Dead to the upcoming release of World War Z, these undead creatures rule the small screens and the silver screens. If you ask me, it's getting to be a little tired, so I was skeptical about the release of another movie about brain eaters.
Long story short: there is no reason to be skeptical of this comedic gift from director Jonathan Levine. Warm Bodies is the perfect followup to the unfortunate cinematic era of The Twilight Saga. It tells an original story though it falls within two of the most repetitive categories of film: romance and horror.
Corny and sweet, like a John Hughes movie, this recent release is sure to please almost anyone in the audience. It brings together all of the best themes artfully, yet ironically.
I have nothing but the best to say about Warm Bodies. Great music, writing, casting, and cinematography. If you have enjoyed anything from Zombieland to The Breakfast Club, I seriously recommend a trip to the movie theater.
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