Hype: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is the last of the initial Indiana Jones films. Since the latest Indiana Jones just came out a few weeks ago, I felt it was necessary for me to see the first three Indy films. So far I enjoyed The Temple of Doom more than Raiders of the Lost Ark, but overall Raiders is a better film, the acting and story are pretty weak in Temple of Doom. Once again I have no idea what this one is about, all I know is that Sean Connery appears as Indy's father. Let's see how this one holds up against the other two.
Initial Review: In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Indy (Harrison Ford) is sent to look for his father, Henry Jones (Sean Connery), who goes missing while searching for the Holy Grail. While looking for his father and the Holy Grail, Indy learns that the Nazi's are also looking for the Holy Grail.
The Last Crusade does a really nice job of filling in a lot of blanks with Indy's past. The film starts with a young Indy, played by River Phoenix, as a Boy Scout in Utah. While exploring a cave Indy comes across grave robbers stealing the Cross of Colorado. Indy decides that the cross belongs in a museum and tries to steal it from the robbers. This starts a fairly entertaining chase between Indy and the robbers. Another aspect of Indy's past this film reveals is his father. While growing up Indy's father cared more about finding the Holy Grail than spending time with his son.
Initially I didn't think I would like Connery as Indy's father. Half way through the movie and I still wasn't sure if he was a good fit, but after a while he starts to grow on you. The interactions between Ford and Connery were very entertaining and comical. Indy is one that is quick to act while his father is more level-headed and thinks things through.
The Last Crusade is a lot more closely related to Raiders of the Lost Ark rather than The Temple of Doom. After seeing the three films, Temple of Doom doesn't really seem to fit. The Last Crusade and Raiders of the Lost Ark both have Indy searching for a biblical artifact (Holy Grail and Ark of the Covenant). Both also have strong female leads, the girl in Temple of Doom was way too annoying. Also the acting and plot are a lot more enjoyable to watch than that found in Temple of Doom. The characters in the Last Crusade are also a lot stronger than those in the Temple of Doom.
Overall I felt that Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade was a fitting end (at the time) to the Indy franchise. It brought back the glory that was in the first film and did a nice job wrapping things up. Sean Connery was enjoyable to watch as Indy's father and Harrison Ford once again was fun to watch in the action scenes. The Indiana Jones franchise is a pretty decent one and I can see why so so many people enjoy it.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Saturday, May 31, 2008
The Proposition Review
Hype: The movie The Proposition is a western, not really my favorite genre when it comes to movies. The first time I heard about this movie was when watching Ebert & Roeper and they both really enjoyed this movie. Ebert even compared it to a Cormac McCarthy novel, Blood Meridian. I actually picked up Blood Meridian but have yet to finish reading it. The Proposition stars Guy Pearce who I enjoyed in Memento, didn't really like in The Time Machine and thought he was alright in The Count of Monte Cristo. Let's see if this movie can help persuade me into thinking westerns are fun to watch.
Initial Review: Beautiful, that's about all I can say about The Proposition. The Proposition takes place in Australian and is the story of an outlaw, Charlie Burns, played by Guy Pearce, who has to find his older brother or his younger brother will be killed.
I would like to go into greater detail of the plot of The Proposition, but I feel like that may ruin the movie for those that haven't seen it. I'm a little shocked that this movie didn't get more recognition when it came out. In 2007 similar style movies were released, There Will Be Blood and No Country For Old Men, and they gained mass amounts of critical and box office success, but most people haven't even heard of The Proposition.
You may be wondering why I say this movie is beautiful. While watching The Proposition the first thing you will notice the beautiful landscape and amazing scenes throughout the film. You really get a sense of how isolated and depressing the Australian Outback can be. Another aspect that was beautiful was the music. The Proposition was actually written by singer/songwriter Nick Cave. Not only did he write a beautiful screenplay but he also wrote a beautiful score.
If you were a fan of There Will Be Blood or No Country For Old Men, I have a feeling you will really enjoy The Proposition. I found it to be one of the better movies that I have watched lately and one that I would really enjoy seeing again. The Proposition isn't for everyone, but those that do decide to see it, will realize how beautiful it is.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: Beautiful, that's about all I can say about The Proposition. The Proposition takes place in Australian and is the story of an outlaw, Charlie Burns, played by Guy Pearce, who has to find his older brother or his younger brother will be killed.
I would like to go into greater detail of the plot of The Proposition, but I feel like that may ruin the movie for those that haven't seen it. I'm a little shocked that this movie didn't get more recognition when it came out. In 2007 similar style movies were released, There Will Be Blood and No Country For Old Men, and they gained mass amounts of critical and box office success, but most people haven't even heard of The Proposition.
You may be wondering why I say this movie is beautiful. While watching The Proposition the first thing you will notice the beautiful landscape and amazing scenes throughout the film. You really get a sense of how isolated and depressing the Australian Outback can be. Another aspect that was beautiful was the music. The Proposition was actually written by singer/songwriter Nick Cave. Not only did he write a beautiful screenplay but he also wrote a beautiful score.
If you were a fan of There Will Be Blood or No Country For Old Men, I have a feeling you will really enjoy The Proposition. I found it to be one of the better movies that I have watched lately and one that I would really enjoy seeing again. The Proposition isn't for everyone, but those that do decide to see it, will realize how beautiful it is.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Monday, May 26, 2008
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom Review
Hype: In honor of the opening of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, I am watching the three previous Indiana Jones films. After enjoying The Raiders of the Lost Ark, its time for The Temple of Doom. I have no idea what the plot of this movie is, I'm guessing there is some sort of Temple of Doom, whatever that is. Lets see if this movie is comparable to Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Initial Review: Two words: MINE CARS!!!!!!!! My initial thoughts towards The Temple of Doom are that I enjoyed it a lot more than Raiders of the Lost Ark. Is the story as good? No not really. Is the acting amazing? Nah. But its a lot more fun and action packed. I felt like the Temple of Doom was filled with wall-to-wall action that never really let up. I mean it had a mine car chase scene for crying out loud, I've always wondered when a movie would have one of those.
The Temple of Doom starts out in a Shanghai night club where Indiana Jones, once again played by Harrison Ford, was trading Nurachi's ashes for a diamond. Indy ends up being poisoned and the entire club gets shot up by the gangsters that Indy is trading with. While exiting the club, he grabs hold of the clubs singer Willie, played by Kate Capshaw, who has taken the cure for the poison. Indy and Willie end up landing in a car that is being driven by Short Round, Indy's young assistant. Short Round, Indy and Willie hop on a plane that ends up being piloted by two thugs that are part of the gang that Indy encountered in the club. The pilots cause the plane to crash and Short Round, Indy and Willie end up in the jungle of India.
While in India they come across this village that has been struck by a curse because their sacred stone, the Sankara Stone, has been stolen. Not only was the stone taken but all the children of the town were kidnapped. Indy is told that the stone was taken to the Pankot Palace and he must go there and recover the stone. While hanging out in the palace Indy stumbles upon a secret ritual that requires a human sacrifice. Once the ritual is over Indy sees the Sankara Stone and attempts to retrieve it. Once he acquires the stone he hears screaming. The screaming ends up being the kids from the village and they are being enslaved and must work in a mine.
Indy, Short Round and Willie end up being captured by Mola Ram, who is the leader of this crazy group. Ram forces Indy to drink the blood of Kali, the God that the human sacrifice was for. The blood causes those that drink it to go into a nightmare that allows their minds to be controlled. Since Indy has drank this blood he is under the control of Ram and is forced to assist in the sacrifice of Wille to Kali.
Indy snaps out of this mind control and helps save Willie. Along the way he saves all the children, but the fun doesn't stop there. Ram's thugs chase after Indy, Short Round and Willie in mine cars and then have an interesting stand-off on a bridge over crocodile invested water.
Doesn't that just sound like the ultimate movie: mine cars, croc invested water, human sacrifices, and mind control. I don't find the plot to be extremely interesting, but the action scenes were great and made up for the weak story.
I found Willie and Short Round to be slightly annoying at first, but over time you realize that is what makes them enjoyable. The interactions between Indy and Willie felt a lot like Han Solo and Princess Leia from Star Wars. Short Round just idolizes Indy, often mimicking his movements while fighting.
Overall I felt like The Temple of Doom was a pleasure to watch and more entertaining than Raiders of the Lost Ark. After seeing this one Indy is way cooler than I originally thought after watching Raiders of the Lost Ark. If you are looking for a fun, action-packed movie that holds your attention the entire time, look no further than Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.
Repeat Viewings:
Initial Review: Two words: MINE CARS!!!!!!!! My initial thoughts towards The Temple of Doom are that I enjoyed it a lot more than Raiders of the Lost Ark. Is the story as good? No not really. Is the acting amazing? Nah. But its a lot more fun and action packed. I felt like the Temple of Doom was filled with wall-to-wall action that never really let up. I mean it had a mine car chase scene for crying out loud, I've always wondered when a movie would have one of those.
The Temple of Doom starts out in a Shanghai night club where Indiana Jones, once again played by Harrison Ford, was trading Nurachi's ashes for a diamond. Indy ends up being poisoned and the entire club gets shot up by the gangsters that Indy is trading with. While exiting the club, he grabs hold of the clubs singer Willie, played by Kate Capshaw, who has taken the cure for the poison. Indy and Willie end up landing in a car that is being driven by Short Round, Indy's young assistant. Short Round, Indy and Willie hop on a plane that ends up being piloted by two thugs that are part of the gang that Indy encountered in the club. The pilots cause the plane to crash and Short Round, Indy and Willie end up in the jungle of India.
While in India they come across this village that has been struck by a curse because their sacred stone, the Sankara Stone, has been stolen. Not only was the stone taken but all the children of the town were kidnapped. Indy is told that the stone was taken to the Pankot Palace and he must go there and recover the stone. While hanging out in the palace Indy stumbles upon a secret ritual that requires a human sacrifice. Once the ritual is over Indy sees the Sankara Stone and attempts to retrieve it. Once he acquires the stone he hears screaming. The screaming ends up being the kids from the village and they are being enslaved and must work in a mine.
Indy, Short Round and Willie end up being captured by Mola Ram, who is the leader of this crazy group. Ram forces Indy to drink the blood of Kali, the God that the human sacrifice was for. The blood causes those that drink it to go into a nightmare that allows their minds to be controlled. Since Indy has drank this blood he is under the control of Ram and is forced to assist in the sacrifice of Wille to Kali.
Indy snaps out of this mind control and helps save Willie. Along the way he saves all the children, but the fun doesn't stop there. Ram's thugs chase after Indy, Short Round and Willie in mine cars and then have an interesting stand-off on a bridge over crocodile invested water.
Doesn't that just sound like the ultimate movie: mine cars, croc invested water, human sacrifices, and mind control. I don't find the plot to be extremely interesting, but the action scenes were great and made up for the weak story.
I found Willie and Short Round to be slightly annoying at first, but over time you realize that is what makes them enjoyable. The interactions between Indy and Willie felt a lot like Han Solo and Princess Leia from Star Wars. Short Round just idolizes Indy, often mimicking his movements while fighting.
Overall I felt like The Temple of Doom was a pleasure to watch and more entertaining than Raiders of the Lost Ark. After seeing this one Indy is way cooler than I originally thought after watching Raiders of the Lost Ark. If you are looking for a fun, action-packed movie that holds your attention the entire time, look no further than Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.
Repeat Viewings:
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark Review
Hype: This weekend Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull was released and is one of the most hyped movies of the summer. Before I can see that movie I need to watch the first three Indiana Jones movies. I know I know, what kind of movie buff am I if I haven't seen the Indiana Jones series? Well now its time for me to conquer this series. I have heard so many good things about Indiana Jones, I sure hope it lives up to the hype. Since Raiders of the Lost Ark is the first one in the series, I guess that's a good place to start.
Initial Review: Raiders of the Lost Ark stars Harrison Ford as the great archeologist Indiana Jones, who is sent to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis do. First Indy must go Napal and meet up with former love, Marion Ravenwood. While in Napal, Marion's bar is burnt to the ground by people that are after the same clues as Indy. Marion and Indy are able to escape and then head to Cairo where the Ark is believe to be. While in Cairo, Indy is able to find where the Germans are digging in attempt to find the Ark, along the way he find that the Germans are actually digging in the wrong location. Indy find the Ark but then it is immediately taken away by his arch nemisis Rene Belloq. From that point on the Ark switches between Rene and Indy multiple times.
Raiders of the Lost Ark is an excellent action-adventure movie that doesn't contain major special effects. The action scenes are well choreographed and a joy to watch because they aren't filled with a ton of CGI effects. Indy is a very charsmatic hero and I can see why so many people enjoy him. The part that really bothered me with Raiders of the Lost Ark was the ending. What I didn't like about the ending was that it was the only part of the film that contained the CGI and since it was filmed in the early 80s, the CGI is pretty laughable.
Overall I enjoyed Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. I look forward to see the next films in the series. Is it a series that I feel I will be a huge fan of like Batman or Lord of the Rings or Star Wars? Probably not, but I think it will be better than a lot of the other film series out there.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: Raiders of the Lost Ark stars Harrison Ford as the great archeologist Indiana Jones, who is sent to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis do. First Indy must go Napal and meet up with former love, Marion Ravenwood. While in Napal, Marion's bar is burnt to the ground by people that are after the same clues as Indy. Marion and Indy are able to escape and then head to Cairo where the Ark is believe to be. While in Cairo, Indy is able to find where the Germans are digging in attempt to find the Ark, along the way he find that the Germans are actually digging in the wrong location. Indy find the Ark but then it is immediately taken away by his arch nemisis Rene Belloq. From that point on the Ark switches between Rene and Indy multiple times.
Raiders of the Lost Ark is an excellent action-adventure movie that doesn't contain major special effects. The action scenes are well choreographed and a joy to watch because they aren't filled with a ton of CGI effects. Indy is a very charsmatic hero and I can see why so many people enjoy him. The part that really bothered me with Raiders of the Lost Ark was the ending. What I didn't like about the ending was that it was the only part of the film that contained the CGI and since it was filmed in the early 80s, the CGI is pretty laughable.
Overall I enjoyed Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. I look forward to see the next films in the series. Is it a series that I feel I will be a huge fan of like Batman or Lord of the Rings or Star Wars? Probably not, but I think it will be better than a lot of the other film series out there.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Friday, May 23, 2008
The Count of Monte Cristo Review
Hype: For years now people have been telling me to see The Count of Monte Cristo. To tell ya the truth I'm actually surprised I haven't watched it yet. I have a feeling Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce will provide a pretty good one-two punch. I've never read the book, but I've heard its a classic, which to me means the movie has a lot to live up to. I'm hoping The Count of Monte Cristo is well worth the wait.
Initial Review: The Count of Monte Cristo is a tale of a man, Edmond Dantes, who is imprisoned for 13 years after being falsely accused as a traitor. Dantes escapes from prison and sets out to get revenge against those that destroyed his life.
My initial thoughts of this film are that it was gorgeously shot, contained decent acting and had some extremely well choreographed fight scenes. I also felt that the story was very engaging and keeps the viewer interested throughout. The costumes and sets were amazing and extravagant. One thing I did not enjoy was Guy Pearce, who played Fernand Mondego, Dantes best friend that betrays him. It felt like he was overacting or maybe he just did an amazing job playing an arrogant jerk. It's not often that I dislike a villain but I did not like him at all.
Having not read The Count of Monte Cristo, I can't say how true it is to the events of the book, but looking at the movie as a separate entity, I really enjoyed it. The story of vengeance and whether or not it can bring happiness is very strong in this film. Dantes lets his desire for revenge control him so much he almost forgets about what used to be important in his life, God and his lady, Mercedès Iguanada.
To get to the point, I really enjoyed The Count of Monte Cristo. If you want to watch a film that is fun to watch, has entertaining sword fights, beautiful scenery and an engaging story this movie is for you. If you want to see a movie that is true to the book, I don't know if this movie is for you. I recommend putting this movie on your Netflix list, you most likely won't be disappointed.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: The Count of Monte Cristo is a tale of a man, Edmond Dantes, who is imprisoned for 13 years after being falsely accused as a traitor. Dantes escapes from prison and sets out to get revenge against those that destroyed his life.
My initial thoughts of this film are that it was gorgeously shot, contained decent acting and had some extremely well choreographed fight scenes. I also felt that the story was very engaging and keeps the viewer interested throughout. The costumes and sets were amazing and extravagant. One thing I did not enjoy was Guy Pearce, who played Fernand Mondego, Dantes best friend that betrays him. It felt like he was overacting or maybe he just did an amazing job playing an arrogant jerk. It's not often that I dislike a villain but I did not like him at all.
Having not read The Count of Monte Cristo, I can't say how true it is to the events of the book, but looking at the movie as a separate entity, I really enjoyed it. The story of vengeance and whether or not it can bring happiness is very strong in this film. Dantes lets his desire for revenge control him so much he almost forgets about what used to be important in his life, God and his lady, Mercedès Iguanada.
To get to the point, I really enjoyed The Count of Monte Cristo. If you want to watch a film that is fun to watch, has entertaining sword fights, beautiful scenery and an engaging story this movie is for you. If you want to see a movie that is true to the book, I don't know if this movie is for you. I recommend putting this movie on your Netflix list, you most likely won't be disappointed.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Zodiac Review
Hype: When I first heard about Zodiac I said I'd pass on this one. Jake Gyllenhal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo in a serial killer mystery doesn't sound too great. Once it came out on DVD I still decided I would pass, but then I heard about the Director's Cut coming out on DVD. I didn't realize this movie deserved a director's cut, so I looked up some reviews. Lo and behold its actually supposed to be good, in fact it was on a lot of peoples best of 2007 movie lists. Therefore I've decided I need to give it a try. Let's see how it goes.
Initial Review: Zodiac stars Jake Gyllenhal as a cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle, Robert Downey Jr. as a reporter for the SFC and Mark Ruffalo as a cop. All get involved with the Zodiac killer when he sends a cryptic letter the SFC and two other San Fran. newspapers. When Jake's character, Robert Graysmith, sees the letter he immediately becomes interested in trying to figure out who this killer is.
When I first heard about Zodiac I thought it would be a straight up serial killer movie, involving killing after killing. But that's not what this movie is about. I found it interesting that this ended up being false. Zodiac is more about the chase and how the unsolved mystery affects those involved.
Zodiac was split into three main parts, the first was the killings and the cryptic letters. Next was the cops investigation and the turmoil that's involved when trying to solve a difficult case. The last third of the movie was Graysmith's investigation and how that affected his family life. One thing I really enjoyed about Zodiac was that the story never really let up. It never felt like a movie that was two and a half hours long. Every scene kept you wanting more.
Another pleasant surprise with Zodiac was Robert Downey Jr. Before this year I could not remember ever seeing a film with him, but after seeing Iron Man and now Zodiac, I'm really starting to enjoy him. It may be because both of those characters are just like how I picture Downey, a drunk dark man, or maybe he is just a good actor. He has definitely proved me wrong.
Overall, I really enjoyed Zodiac and can see why it made so many top ten lists for 2007. I highly recommend it, you will not be disappointed.
Repeating Viewings:
Initial Review: Zodiac stars Jake Gyllenhal as a cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle, Robert Downey Jr. as a reporter for the SFC and Mark Ruffalo as a cop. All get involved with the Zodiac killer when he sends a cryptic letter the SFC and two other San Fran. newspapers. When Jake's character, Robert Graysmith, sees the letter he immediately becomes interested in trying to figure out who this killer is.
When I first heard about Zodiac I thought it would be a straight up serial killer movie, involving killing after killing. But that's not what this movie is about. I found it interesting that this ended up being false. Zodiac is more about the chase and how the unsolved mystery affects those involved.
Zodiac was split into three main parts, the first was the killings and the cryptic letters. Next was the cops investigation and the turmoil that's involved when trying to solve a difficult case. The last third of the movie was Graysmith's investigation and how that affected his family life. One thing I really enjoyed about Zodiac was that the story never really let up. It never felt like a movie that was two and a half hours long. Every scene kept you wanting more.
Another pleasant surprise with Zodiac was Robert Downey Jr. Before this year I could not remember ever seeing a film with him, but after seeing Iron Man and now Zodiac, I'm really starting to enjoy him. It may be because both of those characters are just like how I picture Downey, a drunk dark man, or maybe he is just a good actor. He has definitely proved me wrong.
Overall, I really enjoyed Zodiac and can see why it made so many top ten lists for 2007. I highly recommend it, you will not be disappointed.
Repeating Viewings:
Saturday, May 17, 2008
I'm Not There Review
Hype: I'm Not There is a movie that I have been wanting to see for a while now. I find the concept of this film to be very interesting, a Bob Dylan bio-pic that never mentions Bob and has 6 people playing "Bob" including Cate Blanchett and Heath Ledger. I may not be the biggest fan of Bob Dylan, but I do enjoy his music and look forward to learning more about his life. I also look forward to Christian Bale and Heath Ledger's performances. I am also looking forward to the film technique used in this film.
Initial Review: Interesting. That's all I can say. I'm Not There is a very interesting movie. I don't really know what else to say. It was a complete and total trip. If you are a huge Bob Dylan fan, this movie is a must. For those of you that aren't big fans of Dylan, you might not be that interested. I found the acting to be amazing, but the story was fairly confusing.
My favorite portrayals of Dylan are Cate Blanchett and Christian Bale. I can see why Blanchett was nominated for so many awards, each nomination was well deserved. Bale once again put on another amazing performance. It has been a while since I have been disappointed with Bale.
I would love to go into the synopsis of I'm Not There, but I don't think I can. I totally want to watch it again, but first I need to read up on Bob Dylan's bio and see how the stories that make up I'm Not There actually relate to his life.
Overall, I thought I'm Not There was a great film. Is it a film that you can put in at anytime and watch? No. Is it a film that tells a great story, filmed in an incredible way and has some of the best actors around? Yes. I can't recommend this one to everyone, but if you are willing to take a chance and give this film some time and appreciation, you will not be disappointed. I definitely want to watch it again.
Repeat Viewings:
Initial Review: Interesting. That's all I can say. I'm Not There is a very interesting movie. I don't really know what else to say. It was a complete and total trip. If you are a huge Bob Dylan fan, this movie is a must. For those of you that aren't big fans of Dylan, you might not be that interested. I found the acting to be amazing, but the story was fairly confusing.
My favorite portrayals of Dylan are Cate Blanchett and Christian Bale. I can see why Blanchett was nominated for so many awards, each nomination was well deserved. Bale once again put on another amazing performance. It has been a while since I have been disappointed with Bale.
I would love to go into the synopsis of I'm Not There, but I don't think I can. I totally want to watch it again, but first I need to read up on Bob Dylan's bio and see how the stories that make up I'm Not There actually relate to his life.
Overall, I thought I'm Not There was a great film. Is it a film that you can put in at anytime and watch? No. Is it a film that tells a great story, filmed in an incredible way and has some of the best actors around? Yes. I can't recommend this one to everyone, but if you are willing to take a chance and give this film some time and appreciation, you will not be disappointed. I definitely want to watch it again.
Repeat Viewings:
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Atonement Review
Hype: The hype for Atonement for me wasn't too big. I never read the book and have no idea what the story is about. When I first saw the list of the Best Picture Nominees at this past years Academy Awards, I said this would be the one nominee I wouldn't purchase. A lot of my friends didn't like Atonement, it wasn't what they thought it was going to be. So do I listen to my friends or to the people who vote for the Academy Award nominees? How bout I just watch the movie and decide for myself.
Initial Review: Atonement is the story of two young lovers Cecilla Tallis (Keira Knightley) and Robbie Turner (James McAvoy), whose lives are changed when Cecilla's younger sister, Briony, accuses Robbie of raping her cousin. Briony had a crush on Robbie and then thought he was a sexual monster when she misinterpreted an argument between Robbie and Cecilla and after reading a letter Robbie wrote Cecilla. Robbie is sent to jail and then forced to either stay in jail or go fight in World War II. He decides to go to war. While he is off at war, Cecilla becomes a nurse and Briony decides to follow in her footsteps. Briony soon realizes she made a mistake in accusing Robbie and tries to tell her sister. I feel like I need to stop there with the synopsis, I don't want to give too much away.
I can see why this movie was nominated for so many awards. The acting was great, the cinematography was beautiful, and the story was enjoyable. Atonement won an Academy Award for Original Score and when watching the movie you can see/hear why. The score is very strong throughout the film and probably the thing that stood out the most.
Was Atonement one of the best films of 2007? It wouldn't have made my top 10. It's no There Will Be Blood or No Country for Old Men, but it was a joy to watch. From the people I've talked to about Atonement they went in expecting a romance and this is no romance movie. I didn't read the book so I can't compare it and tell you which one is better. I recommend renting this movie, it was on a ton of peoples best of 2007 lists for a reason.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: Atonement is the story of two young lovers Cecilla Tallis (Keira Knightley) and Robbie Turner (James McAvoy), whose lives are changed when Cecilla's younger sister, Briony, accuses Robbie of raping her cousin. Briony had a crush on Robbie and then thought he was a sexual monster when she misinterpreted an argument between Robbie and Cecilla and after reading a letter Robbie wrote Cecilla. Robbie is sent to jail and then forced to either stay in jail or go fight in World War II. He decides to go to war. While he is off at war, Cecilla becomes a nurse and Briony decides to follow in her footsteps. Briony soon realizes she made a mistake in accusing Robbie and tries to tell her sister. I feel like I need to stop there with the synopsis, I don't want to give too much away.
I can see why this movie was nominated for so many awards. The acting was great, the cinematography was beautiful, and the story was enjoyable. Atonement won an Academy Award for Original Score and when watching the movie you can see/hear why. The score is very strong throughout the film and probably the thing that stood out the most.
Was Atonement one of the best films of 2007? It wouldn't have made my top 10. It's no There Will Be Blood or No Country for Old Men, but it was a joy to watch. From the people I've talked to about Atonement they went in expecting a romance and this is no romance movie. I didn't read the book so I can't compare it and tell you which one is better. I recommend renting this movie, it was on a ton of peoples best of 2007 lists for a reason.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Friday, May 9, 2008
The Savages Review
Hype: The only thing I know about this movie is that it stars Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman and that the reviews for it were outstanding. I am really starting to enjoy Hoffman and I felt like he had a great year with this movie, Before the Devil Knows Your Dead and Charlie Wilson's War. Laura Linney is usually a joy to watch. I don't really know the plot to The Savages, so lets see if I enjoy it.
Initial Review: The Savages is about Wendy and Jon Savage played by Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Wendy and Jon are siblings that are placed in charge of their father, who is suffering from dementia, after his girlfriend passes away. Jon and Wendy's childhood was not the greatest and they hold a lot of grudges against their father. Besides dealing with their dying father, Wendy and Jon must also deal with the other struggles going on in their lives. Wendy is sleeping with a married man and is a struggling playwright. Jon is a college professor working on a book and has a girlfriend from Poland who's visa has expired. Jon and Wendy must rely on each other to get through this difficult time in their lives.
I thought this movie was really fun to watch and I thought Linney and Hoffman were absolutely amazing. The only thing I really had a hard time with was understanding what the characters were going through. Since I am only in my 20s I have not had to deal with putting my parents in a nursing home. Aside from that you can really feel the struggle that Jon and Wendy are going through and can see how they both truly care about each other and need each other to survive. The brother-sister bond is really strong and important to this film.
Once again Hoffman steals the show. Over the last couple years it's been really hard to find a film starring Hoffman that is not a joy to watch. There is one scene in particular that is a joy to watch. Hoffman is stuck in a head sling that requires his head to be supported by 18 pounds of water and Linney's character gives him some food to eat and you can just see the struggle on his face. Linney did an outstanding job playing a character that is really unhappy in life and tries to hard to bring stability to it.
The Savages was a pleasure to watch. If you are a fan of Philip Seymour Hoffman you will not be disappointed. I highly recommend renting this movie, you will be glad you did.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: The Savages is about Wendy and Jon Savage played by Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Wendy and Jon are siblings that are placed in charge of their father, who is suffering from dementia, after his girlfriend passes away. Jon and Wendy's childhood was not the greatest and they hold a lot of grudges against their father. Besides dealing with their dying father, Wendy and Jon must also deal with the other struggles going on in their lives. Wendy is sleeping with a married man and is a struggling playwright. Jon is a college professor working on a book and has a girlfriend from Poland who's visa has expired. Jon and Wendy must rely on each other to get through this difficult time in their lives.
I thought this movie was really fun to watch and I thought Linney and Hoffman were absolutely amazing. The only thing I really had a hard time with was understanding what the characters were going through. Since I am only in my 20s I have not had to deal with putting my parents in a nursing home. Aside from that you can really feel the struggle that Jon and Wendy are going through and can see how they both truly care about each other and need each other to survive. The brother-sister bond is really strong and important to this film.
Once again Hoffman steals the show. Over the last couple years it's been really hard to find a film starring Hoffman that is not a joy to watch. There is one scene in particular that is a joy to watch. Hoffman is stuck in a head sling that requires his head to be supported by 18 pounds of water and Linney's character gives him some food to eat and you can just see the struggle on his face. Linney did an outstanding job playing a character that is really unhappy in life and tries to hard to bring stability to it.
The Savages was a pleasure to watch. If you are a fan of Philip Seymour Hoffman you will not be disappointed. I highly recommend renting this movie, you will be glad you did.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Cloverfield Review
Hype: I felt like the hype for this movie was pretty huge. I first saw the teaser for Cloverfield right before Transformers last summer. After watching the teaser, I, like everyone else, was wondering what is this movie about. Is it a monster movie? A war movie? Maybe a natural disaster movie. I wanted to see this movie at the theater but never got around to it. I don't plan on this movie being the greatest thing ever, but I feel it will be a joy to watch.
Initial Review: So I just got done watching Cloverfield and all I can really say is WOW. I really enjoyed the way it was done. I found the camcorder-style very entertaining. I feel like it caused me to be more on the edge of my seat. It was a very well done monster movie. You hardly see the monster, but you know its something that is causing massive damage to the city. Watching it on DVD makes you feel like you found this tape and you are playing it back.
I enjoyed the fact that the actors are not people you normally find in movies. In fact most of them you will hardly recognize. It gives the movie that amateur feel. If this movie had the likes of Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, or Angelina Jolie, it would feel too fake and hollywood. Throughout watching the entire film I didn't feel like I was watching a huge summer blockbuster, it has that home video feel.
Cloverfield is a big explosion, high suspense monster movie and sometimes that's what we need. It's not the best movie, it doesn't have the best acting or greatest story. It's just a fun movie that takes the monster-disaster movie to a whole new level. I highly recommend watching it.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Initial Review: So I just got done watching Cloverfield and all I can really say is WOW. I really enjoyed the way it was done. I found the camcorder-style very entertaining. I feel like it caused me to be more on the edge of my seat. It was a very well done monster movie. You hardly see the monster, but you know its something that is causing massive damage to the city. Watching it on DVD makes you feel like you found this tape and you are playing it back.
I enjoyed the fact that the actors are not people you normally find in movies. In fact most of them you will hardly recognize. It gives the movie that amateur feel. If this movie had the likes of Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, or Angelina Jolie, it would feel too fake and hollywood. Throughout watching the entire film I didn't feel like I was watching a huge summer blockbuster, it has that home video feel.
Cloverfield is a big explosion, high suspense monster movie and sometimes that's what we need. It's not the best movie, it doesn't have the best acting or greatest story. It's just a fun movie that takes the monster-disaster movie to a whole new level. I highly recommend watching it.
Repeat Viewings: N/A
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Summer Movie Hype
This weekend is the official start of the Summer Movie Blockbuster Season. It kicks off with the critically acclaimed movie Iron Man. Here is a list of the summer movies that I am looking forward to the most and why.
Iron Man (May 2nd): At first I had my doubts about Iron Man. I know nothing about the comic book. When I first heard of Iron Man the movie, I found out Robert Downey Jr. would be playing the lead. That caused me to have even more doubts. He doesn't seem like the comic book hero type. And then you throw in Jon Favreau has the director. Don't get me wrong I've enjoyed a few of the movies he has acted in, but the ones he's directed (Elf, Zathura) I'm not so sure about. As the movie has gotten closer to release the reviews have started to flow in. Much to my surprise they were all amazing. This, along with the action packed clips, has changed my mind about Iron Man. Iron Man is now one of my most anticipated summer films.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (May 22nd): I know I will recieve a lot of crap for this but, I have only seen one of the Indiana Jones films. I plan on fixing that before this one is released in a few weeks. I've enjoyed Steven Spielberg and George Lucas' work in the passed and that is why I am looking forward to this one.
The Happening (June 13th): I have really enjoyed M. Night Shyamalan's films (minus Lady in the Water). The premise for this one looks promising. Lets hope M. Night can get back to his winning ways.
Wall-E (June 27th): Its a Pixar film. How can it not be good?
Hancock (July 4th): Will Smith. Fourth of July Weekend. Need I say more.
Hellboy 2 (July 11th): Guillermo del Toro is amazing. The first Hellboy was really a joy to watch. The trailers for Hellboy 2 look even more action packed than the first one.
The Dark Knight (July 18th): I absolutely love Batman Begins. I thought it was a great restart to the Batman franchise. With everyone, except Katie Holmes, returning for the Dark Knight, there is no reason that this sequel will be amazing. The viral campaign that is currently going on for this film has completely sucked me in. I am really looking forward to seeing Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker. From the early clips that have been shown, it looks incredible.
Be sure to check back for my reviews on these and many other films I watch this summer.
Iron Man (May 2nd): At first I had my doubts about Iron Man. I know nothing about the comic book. When I first heard of Iron Man the movie, I found out Robert Downey Jr. would be playing the lead. That caused me to have even more doubts. He doesn't seem like the comic book hero type. And then you throw in Jon Favreau has the director. Don't get me wrong I've enjoyed a few of the movies he has acted in, but the ones he's directed (Elf, Zathura) I'm not so sure about. As the movie has gotten closer to release the reviews have started to flow in. Much to my surprise they were all amazing. This, along with the action packed clips, has changed my mind about Iron Man. Iron Man is now one of my most anticipated summer films.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (May 22nd): I know I will recieve a lot of crap for this but, I have only seen one of the Indiana Jones films. I plan on fixing that before this one is released in a few weeks. I've enjoyed Steven Spielberg and George Lucas' work in the passed and that is why I am looking forward to this one.
The Happening (June 13th): I have really enjoyed M. Night Shyamalan's films (minus Lady in the Water). The premise for this one looks promising. Lets hope M. Night can get back to his winning ways.
Wall-E (June 27th): Its a Pixar film. How can it not be good?
Hancock (July 4th): Will Smith. Fourth of July Weekend. Need I say more.
Hellboy 2 (July 11th): Guillermo del Toro is amazing. The first Hellboy was really a joy to watch. The trailers for Hellboy 2 look even more action packed than the first one.
The Dark Knight (July 18th): I absolutely love Batman Begins. I thought it was a great restart to the Batman franchise. With everyone, except Katie Holmes, returning for the Dark Knight, there is no reason that this sequel will be amazing. The viral campaign that is currently going on for this film has completely sucked me in. I am really looking forward to seeing Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker. From the early clips that have been shown, it looks incredible.
Be sure to check back for my reviews on these and many other films I watch this summer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)