Tuesday, August 21, 2012
My Review of Coriolanus
If you're not even remotely into or have some kind of appreciation for Shakespeare, you should turn the channel now. If you are or do, this little movie is really kind of cool. Yes, it is set in a more modern time. Yes, they do keep the Shakespearean language. Yes, Ralph Fiennes is amazing, although it's weird to see his nose again after all these years. The most interesting thing about this movie is the way they use the transition scenes. Many are done on televisions as news reports or talk shows. Coriolanus is not one of Shakespeare's better known stories, nor is it one of his great ones. But it's a good one at least, and the movie is well done. Plus you can finally watch Gerard Butler in a movie that doesn't completely suck. Watch this movie and be impressed by the direction. We're probably going to see quite a bit more of Ralph behind the camera.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
My Review of Kramer vs Kramer
Oh Meryl, I love you so. Why must you be the heart-less villain that needs to go "find herself?" Seriously, why?
At least we have Dustin to rescue us from our mixed emotions. He is so amazingly amazing in this movie. Watching his roller coaster of emotions will squeeze all the love from your heart. And his first attempt at making french toast will help you laugh through the tears.
I do not like when children are in perilous are generally unhappy situations. Nope. Not even a little. This movie is as heart breaking as it is heart warming. And the story unfolds very quickly. I paused 16 minutes in to answer the phone (yeah, I know) and I was thinking, "wow, 16 minutes? but so much has happened already." I streamed this on Netflix where it was listed as a "court room drama." I don't agree with that label. But I do agree with the "really great movie" label.
I laughed, I cried, I threw the remote. Yes, these are the emotions that great acting from people like Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep provoke from me.
Watch this.
No, shut up. Just watch it.
I don't care if you think Meryl is super ugly. Watch it anyway.
At least we have Dustin to rescue us from our mixed emotions. He is so amazingly amazing in this movie. Watching his roller coaster of emotions will squeeze all the love from your heart. And his first attempt at making french toast will help you laugh through the tears.
I do not like when children are in perilous are generally unhappy situations. Nope. Not even a little. This movie is as heart breaking as it is heart warming. And the story unfolds very quickly. I paused 16 minutes in to answer the phone (yeah, I know) and I was thinking, "wow, 16 minutes? but so much has happened already." I streamed this on Netflix where it was listed as a "court room drama." I don't agree with that label. But I do agree with the "really great movie" label.
I laughed, I cried, I threw the remote. Yes, these are the emotions that great acting from people like Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep provoke from me.
Watch this.
No, shut up. Just watch it.
I don't care if you think Meryl is super ugly. Watch it anyway.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
My Review of The Ides of March
Before seeing The Ides of March, you might want to either do a quick read of Julius Caesar, or at least the synopsis. It may help you find the story a bit more interesting. It's not a completely boring story, it's just a little slow going. Ryan Gosling, Paul Giamatti, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and George Clooney do wonders to keep the action moving along.
Stephen Meyers (Gosling) is a lead staffer on the campaign to get Clooney (Gov. Mike Morrise) elected to the President of the United States. He supports people and causes he actually believes in, which we all can see is quite rare in politics. He believes his candidate is exactly what the country needs. But when scandals ensue, which isn't a total surprise in a political movie, which master will be choose to become a servant of?
Much like Brutus in Julius Caesar, Stephen starts out being motivated by patriotism and honor. But will he follow Cassius and become engulfed in greed and envy? The Ides of March does a very good job of not defining characters as mere heroes or villains. It is more complicated than that, as it most always is. If you choose to parallel the story with Julius Caesar, as I clearly have, the ending will be somewhat satisfying to you. If you choose to look at this story on its own, you will walk away wanting more resolution.
The biggest flaw here is that there were some crucial bits of story that we did not get to see, but merely heard about. I'm fine with not getting to see every little moment in the story, but when you build up to something, you need to reward your audience.
The story is okay. If you are going to try and parallel such a well known story, you should really stick to it. There were some surprising twist and turns. And others that were not so surprising. But that's not the reason to see this movie. The reason to see The Ides of March is for the incredible acting performances by a dream team of actors. This movie is loaded with amazing acting moments, the kitchen confrontation between Gosling and Clooney is particularly good.
The Ides of March is a one time see, but a one time see that is worth your time if you want to invest in some great acting.
Stephen Meyers (Gosling) is a lead staffer on the campaign to get Clooney (Gov. Mike Morrise) elected to the President of the United States. He supports people and causes he actually believes in, which we all can see is quite rare in politics. He believes his candidate is exactly what the country needs. But when scandals ensue, which isn't a total surprise in a political movie, which master will be choose to become a servant of?
Much like Brutus in Julius Caesar, Stephen starts out being motivated by patriotism and honor. But will he follow Cassius and become engulfed in greed and envy? The Ides of March does a very good job of not defining characters as mere heroes or villains. It is more complicated than that, as it most always is. If you choose to parallel the story with Julius Caesar, as I clearly have, the ending will be somewhat satisfying to you. If you choose to look at this story on its own, you will walk away wanting more resolution.
The biggest flaw here is that there were some crucial bits of story that we did not get to see, but merely heard about. I'm fine with not getting to see every little moment in the story, but when you build up to something, you need to reward your audience.
The story is okay. If you are going to try and parallel such a well known story, you should really stick to it. There were some surprising twist and turns. And others that were not so surprising. But that's not the reason to see this movie. The reason to see The Ides of March is for the incredible acting performances by a dream team of actors. This movie is loaded with amazing acting moments, the kitchen confrontation between Gosling and Clooney is particularly good.
The Ides of March is a one time see, but a one time see that is worth your time if you want to invest in some great acting.
Monday, February 6, 2012
My Review of War Horse
If the masses were given the list of this years nine Oscar nominees for Best Picture, War Horse would have an excellent chance at winning the prize. Throw in Steven Spielberg and the fact that it is somewhat of a war epic film, and even the Academy might vote for this horse. Unfortunately for all involved in the making of this movie, The Artist is also up for Best Picture, and it is going to win. But if War Horse somehow pulls a Crash, I wouldn't be one bit disappointed. It may be a movie that plays better in more rural areas than in urban ones simple because it requires some sympathy with the down and out farmer type.
Joey, the main...uh...actor(?) in War Horse comes to us by way of Michael Morpurgo's short story of the same name, which was then made into a stage play that opened on Broadway last April and has gone on to win 5 Tony awards. Look some of the stage scenes up on youtube. The way the horses are done is incredible. Just as in the movie, there is something larger-than-life about Joey and War Horse.
At points during the movie I thought it was going to get too predictable and too sappy. It may be a bit predictable, but you are so drawn in to the characters and Joey's journey that all the negatives you may be able to point out, fall to the wayside. If ever I have seen or may have seen an animal act, it is in this movie. We see how Joey is tamed and raised by poor farm boy Albert. How they are torn apart. And how their friendship battles the ultimate tests as they try to find one another in a world savaged by war.
Joey wends his way in and out of several peoples lives who are as much affected by him as he is by them. War Horse gives us something greater to believe in. And reminds us that maybe our lot isn't so bad. But if there comes times of trouble, you just keep fighting. You just keep going. "Walk on Joey. Walk on."
Joey, the main...uh...actor(?) in War Horse comes to us by way of Michael Morpurgo's short story of the same name, which was then made into a stage play that opened on Broadway last April and has gone on to win 5 Tony awards. Look some of the stage scenes up on youtube. The way the horses are done is incredible. Just as in the movie, there is something larger-than-life about Joey and War Horse.
At points during the movie I thought it was going to get too predictable and too sappy. It may be a bit predictable, but you are so drawn in to the characters and Joey's journey that all the negatives you may be able to point out, fall to the wayside. If ever I have seen or may have seen an animal act, it is in this movie. We see how Joey is tamed and raised by poor farm boy Albert. How they are torn apart. And how their friendship battles the ultimate tests as they try to find one another in a world savaged by war.
Joey wends his way in and out of several peoples lives who are as much affected by him as he is by them. War Horse gives us something greater to believe in. And reminds us that maybe our lot isn't so bad. But if there comes times of trouble, you just keep fighting. You just keep going. "Walk on Joey. Walk on."
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
My Review of The Artist
Yes, I saw. Yes, I liked it. No, not everyone will, not by a long shot.
Basic premise, George Valentin is a huge success as a silent movie star but can he stay relevant as talking pictures arrive.
The two leads, Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, you probably haven't seen in anything else. I sure haven't. I was surprised, however at how many of the supporting characters were familiar. Dujardin is so charming and so reminiscent of Gene Kelley that he completely captivates your attention anytime he is on the screen. I guess I thought this movie would feel more like a foreign film, but it didn't at all. It's a silent film shot in black and white with a fairly simple story line. And that's what I love about it. Its simplicity. The Artist is a breath of fresh air compared to the whiz-bang movies we're accustomed to. There's something romantic about the nostalgia of it all. The music is amazing, which it better be if you're watching a silent movie. And if Alfred Hitchcock showed us anything, it's how powerful silence can be. This movie uses complete silence rarely, and to great emotional effect. (for another great example of this see the scene in the rain in Road to Perdition.
The Artist will win the Oscar for Best Picture. And I would say it is worthy of it for several reasons, one of which being that the filmmakers created something totally unique in today's market and made it very entertaining. I expected a bit of campiness and was pleased to find not a shred of it. If you are willing to take a chance on this movie, you are in for a pleasant, sweet, and thoughtful surprise. And it's "artsy" enough for the Academy to pay attention to (unlike anything Christopher Nolan does, which is always brilliant but never an "oscar-type-of-movie").
Go in with an open mind and a good sense of humor. If you have no interest in seeing it, don't torture yourself because you will hate it. If you have the attention span of a gnat, definitely skip The Artist because it does actually require you to pay attention, but know that you are missing out on something special.
Basic premise, George Valentin is a huge success as a silent movie star but can he stay relevant as talking pictures arrive.
The two leads, Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, you probably haven't seen in anything else. I sure haven't. I was surprised, however at how many of the supporting characters were familiar. Dujardin is so charming and so reminiscent of Gene Kelley that he completely captivates your attention anytime he is on the screen. I guess I thought this movie would feel more like a foreign film, but it didn't at all. It's a silent film shot in black and white with a fairly simple story line. And that's what I love about it. Its simplicity. The Artist is a breath of fresh air compared to the whiz-bang movies we're accustomed to. There's something romantic about the nostalgia of it all. The music is amazing, which it better be if you're watching a silent movie. And if Alfred Hitchcock showed us anything, it's how powerful silence can be. This movie uses complete silence rarely, and to great emotional effect. (for another great example of this see the scene in the rain in Road to Perdition.
The Artist will win the Oscar for Best Picture. And I would say it is worthy of it for several reasons, one of which being that the filmmakers created something totally unique in today's market and made it very entertaining. I expected a bit of campiness and was pleased to find not a shred of it. If you are willing to take a chance on this movie, you are in for a pleasant, sweet, and thoughtful surprise. And it's "artsy" enough for the Academy to pay attention to (unlike anything Christopher Nolan does, which is always brilliant but never an "oscar-type-of-movie").
Go in with an open mind and a good sense of humor. If you have no interest in seeing it, don't torture yourself because you will hate it. If you have the attention span of a gnat, definitely skip The Artist because it does actually require you to pay attention, but know that you are missing out on something special.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
My Review of All Good Things
This movie was debuted December 2010 but in a very limited release. With a cast this elite it’s surprising that it didn’t see a larger audience base. The story is based on one of the most infamous missing person case’s in New York History. The director, who hasn’t really done much beyond this movie, uses court records and speculation to piece together what may or may not have happened. Ryan Gosling, Kirsten Dunst, and Frank Langella are so good in this movie.
Gosling and Dunst play a happy couple who marry despite his father’s (Langella) wishes. We find out through the course of the movie that Gosling’s character, David, has had quite a horrific childhood. Dunst’s character, Katie, represents something normal to him. And thus, of course, he fights to control her. This would be the typical disintegrating marriage type of story, except Gosling and Dunst are so good they elevate the movie to something it would never be without them.
I know there are some Dunst haters out there, but I think she is incredibly charming. And this is one of the best things I have ever seen her in. And Ryan Gosling, I mean, where can you go wrong here. I haven’t seen him in anything where he has done a poor job. I read in People Magazine recently that Gary Oldman says Gosling is the actor he admires, so that’s gotta tell you something.
There is a bit of dissatisfaction when the movie ends, but that usually comes with unfinished stories that are based somewhat in factual information. You’ll need to rent this one, or stream on Netflix. But it’s worth a watch if you’re in a thriller type of mood. But it is unsettling so maybe just the one time is enough.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
My Predictions for the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards
Let me start by saying if in today’s age of 3D and D-Box movies, you can create as much intrigue and buzz as silent film The Artist has, you deserve some kind or recognition.
I haven’t seen all of these movies yet, haven’t even had the opportunity to in regards to many of them. So my predictions are based on the films I have seen, the buzz I’ve heard and read about others, and the previous work that the nominated individuals have done. Also, during awards season you have to remember that the people who actually vote on these things have probably never been to an actually movie theater and only watch the films they're required to.
I love awards season!
Best Motion Picture - Drama
The Descendants
The Help
Hugo
The Ides Of March
Moneyball
War Horse: Will win and should win
The Help
Hugo
The Ides Of March
Moneyball
War Horse: Will win and should win
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama
Glenn Close – Albert Nobbs
Viola Davis – The Help: Should win
Rooney Mara – The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo: Will win
Meryl Streep – Iron Lady
Tilda Swinton – We Need To Talk About Kevin
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama
George Clooney – The Descendants: Will win
Leonardo DiCaprio – J. Edgar
Michael Fassbender – Shame
Ryan Gosling – The Ides Of March
Brad Pitt – Moneyball: Should win
Best Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical
Jodie Foster – Carnage
Charlize Theron – Young Adult
Kristen Wiig – Bridesmaids: Unfortunately will win
Michelle Williams – My Week With Marilyn
Kate Winslet – Carnage: Should win
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical
Jean Dujardin – The Artist: Will win and should win
Brendan Gleeson – The Guard
Joseph Gordon-Levitt – 50/50
Ryan Gosling – Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Owen Wilson – Midnight In Paris
Best Animated Feature Film
Best Foreign Language Film
The Flowers Of War (China)
In The Land Of Blood And Honey (United States): Will win
The Kid With A Bike (Belgium)
A Separation (Iran)
The Skin I Live In (Spain)
In The Land Of Blood And Honey (United States): Will win
The Kid With A Bike (Belgium)
A Separation (Iran)
The Skin I Live In (Spain)
Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Berenice Bejo – The Artist
Jessica Chastain – The Help
Janet McTeer – Albert Nobbs
Octavia Spencer – The Help: Will win and should win
Shailene Woodley – The Descendants
Best Performance by an Actor In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Kenneth Branagh – My Week With Marilyn: Should win
Albert Brooks – Drive
Jonah Hill – Moneyball
Viggo Mortensen – A Dangerous Method
Christopher Plummer – Beginners: Will win
Best Director - Motion Picture
Woody Allen – Midnight In Paris
George Clooney – The Ides Of March
Michel Hazanavicius – The Artist: Will win and should win
Alexander Payne – The Descendants
Martin Scorsese – Hugo
Best Screenplay - Motion Picture
Michel Hazanavicius - The Artist: Will win
Nat Faxon, Alexander Payne, Jim Rash - The Descendants
George Clooney, Grant Heslov, Beau Willimon - The Ides Of March
Woody Allen - Midnight In Paris
Stan Chervin, Aaron Sorkin, Steven Zaillian - Moneyball: Should win
Best Original Score - Motion Picture
Ludovic Bource - The Artist: Will win and should win
Abel Korzeniowski - W.E.
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross - The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
Howard Shore - Hugo
John Williams - War Horse
Best Original Song - Motion Picture
"Living Proof, The" – The Help: Will win and Should win
Music By: Thomas Newman, Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason, Jr. and Damon Thomas
Lyrics By: Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason, Jr. and Damon Thomas
Music By: Thomas Newman, Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason, Jr. and Damon Thomas
Lyrics By: Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason, Jr. and Damon Thomas
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