1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Michael Keaton's directorial debut is a praiseworthy success. Too bad this film was not available to many audiences. It's a story about Kate, a woman who has left her physically abusive husband and begins a new life in Chicago. One night, as she's leaving work, she spots someone in shadow standing on the ledge of a building. Thinking he is about to kill himself, she cries out, and he falls backward onto the roof. That man is Frank Logan, a professional hitman who had actually just shot someone a few stories above her. Frank and Kate meet face to face on another occassion and develop a strange bond to one another. Then Kate's husband returns. I will not reveal anything beyond this point except that my initial impression was that the ending disappointed me. When I thought more about it, however, it was probably the only conclusion that made any real sense.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This film kept me interested, has some great characters and good writing. That combination deserves consideration for another viewing if the mood is right.
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus (Bob says 2 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? SOME OF IT
There are some directors that are so gifted, so talented with their imaginations, that they end up alienating the audience rather than taking them for a ride. David Lynch got too excessive with his Inland Empire and Terry Gilliam does it here. Not that the visuals are not a marvel to look at. They certainly are and I would recommend interested viewers see it just for that. The problem is that I often had no idea what was going on and not following stories for lengths of time frustrates me. One problem that could not be undone was the death of Heath Ledger. Instead of scrapping the film, Gilliam decided to replace Ledger with Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell whenever the character steps through the other worldly Imaginarium mirror. Okay, it's another world, but there is no explanation why Ledger's Tony looks so different when he steps into this universe. He just does. Christopher Plummer has one of the most unique roles I've ever seen him play as the title character, who is competing with a devilish character named Mr. Nick for people's souls. What a strange film.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
I've got to say I give Terry Gilliam props for originality. He just cannot expect to gain a wide audience if he insists on visual excess over a story people can follow. Perhaps he just doesn't care.
There are some directors that are so gifted, so talented with their imaginations, that they end up alienating the audience rather than taking them for a ride. David Lynch got too excessive with his Inland Empire and Terry Gilliam does it here. Not that the visuals are not a marvel to look at. They certainly are and I would recommend interested viewers see it just for that. The problem is that I often had no idea what was going on and not following stories for lengths of time frustrates me. One problem that could not be undone was the death of Heath Ledger. Instead of scrapping the film, Gilliam decided to replace Ledger with Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell whenever the character steps through the other worldly Imaginarium mirror. Okay, it's another world, but there is no explanation why Ledger's Tony looks so different when he steps into this universe. He just does. Christopher Plummer has one of the most unique roles I've ever seen him play as the title character, who is competing with a devilish character named Mr. Nick for people's souls. What a strange film.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
I've got to say I give Terry Gilliam props for originality. He just cannot expect to gain a wide audience if he insists on visual excess over a story people can follow. Perhaps he just doesn't care.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
You, The Living (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
What a quirky movie! There are some films that are so absurd you can't help but laugh. The filmmakers did not do this by accident and it pays off. The film follows vignettes of different characters, all self-absorbed and depressed, but in such a ridiculous way it's comical. There's also plenty of dreams and randomness in this movie; most of these scenes you have to watch to see why they're funny. I haven't described a plot here because there isn't one, just a series of sketches of different people. I hadn't seen any Swedish black comedies before this one, but it's certainly been a promising introduction.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I watched this movie alone and laughed. I'm curious what an audience would think. Not your typical film, but in this case, that's a good thing.
What a quirky movie! There are some films that are so absurd you can't help but laugh. The filmmakers did not do this by accident and it pays off. The film follows vignettes of different characters, all self-absorbed and depressed, but in such a ridiculous way it's comical. There's also plenty of dreams and randomness in this movie; most of these scenes you have to watch to see why they're funny. I haven't described a plot here because there isn't one, just a series of sketches of different people. I hadn't seen any Swedish black comedies before this one, but it's certainly been a promising introduction.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I watched this movie alone and laughed. I'm curious what an audience would think. Not your typical film, but in this case, that's a good thing.
Passing Strange (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Spike Lee filmed the last three performances of this Broadway production about a young black musician who rebels against his mother's middle-class, church-going upbringing and travels to Amsterdam and later Berlin to experience "the real." Stew, who wrote the lyrics and music to this show, is also dynamic as the musical's narrator. While I first had to adjust to the idea that I was watching the filming of an actual Broadway performance, I was soon absorbed by the incredible music of this production. The actors work their butts off in this show, understandably working up quite a sweat throughout. Unlike some musicals in film that rely on flashy special effects, this one holds its hat on great music, acting and choreography. I liked this film a lot.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is not your typical movie, as it's really just the taping of a musical. But I might be in the mood at some point to view this show again. Thank goodness Spike Lee saw the greatness of this show to capture it on film.
Spike Lee filmed the last three performances of this Broadway production about a young black musician who rebels against his mother's middle-class, church-going upbringing and travels to Amsterdam and later Berlin to experience "the real." Stew, who wrote the lyrics and music to this show, is also dynamic as the musical's narrator. While I first had to adjust to the idea that I was watching the filming of an actual Broadway performance, I was soon absorbed by the incredible music of this production. The actors work their butts off in this show, understandably working up quite a sweat throughout. Unlike some musicals in film that rely on flashy special effects, this one holds its hat on great music, acting and choreography. I liked this film a lot.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is not your typical movie, as it's really just the taping of a musical. But I might be in the mood at some point to view this show again. Thank goodness Spike Lee saw the greatness of this show to capture it on film.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Departures (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
The Oscar winner for Best Foreign Language Film of 2008, this film did not see limited release in the United States until May of 2009. Because it's technically 2008, I will not qualify it for the 2009 top ten list, but it would have been a strong contender.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
A very well done film with an emotional ending done with great tenderness and respect.
The Oscar winner for Best Foreign Language Film of 2008, this film did not see limited release in the United States until May of 2009. Because it's technically 2008, I will not qualify it for the 2009 top ten list, but it would have been a strong contender.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
A very well done film with an emotional ending done with great tenderness and respect.
Brothers (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Jim Sheridan directs Tobey Maguire in what I think is Maguire's best performance so far of his career. He plays Sam Cahill, a family man who's well-liked and cheerful. A Marine about to go on his fourth tour of duty in Afghanistan, Sam welcomes his brother Tommy back home, who has just been released from prison for armed robbery. Tommy is resentful that his father prefers Sam over him, especially when his father states this at the dinner table in front of the family. Then Sam goes overseas, and his family soon receives word that he has been presumed dead from a helicopter crash. Tommy quickly steps up to the plate to support Sam's wife Grace and two girls. A romantic attraction begins to develop between Tommy and Grace just as the family discovers that Sam is not dead after all. He returns home, but after a horrendous experience involving the death of his fellow soldier and good friend Private Joe Willis, Sam is not the same man. Here's where the real drama starts and takes the movie from good to great. Natalie Portman plays Gracie and Jake Gyllenhaal plays Tommy in fine supporting performances in their own right. I liked The Hurt Locker, whose protagonist at the end of the movie also has a difficult time adjusting to real life. Brothers goes one step further, showing the guilt a man must bear when forced to murder a friend for the sake of his family.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
This was an emotional experience that I feel hit all the right notes. Not given nearly enough credit at the Golden Globes, Brothers is a 2009 film you don't want to miss.
Jim Sheridan directs Tobey Maguire in what I think is Maguire's best performance so far of his career. He plays Sam Cahill, a family man who's well-liked and cheerful. A Marine about to go on his fourth tour of duty in Afghanistan, Sam welcomes his brother Tommy back home, who has just been released from prison for armed robbery. Tommy is resentful that his father prefers Sam over him, especially when his father states this at the dinner table in front of the family. Then Sam goes overseas, and his family soon receives word that he has been presumed dead from a helicopter crash. Tommy quickly steps up to the plate to support Sam's wife Grace and two girls. A romantic attraction begins to develop between Tommy and Grace just as the family discovers that Sam is not dead after all. He returns home, but after a horrendous experience involving the death of his fellow soldier and good friend Private Joe Willis, Sam is not the same man. Here's where the real drama starts and takes the movie from good to great. Natalie Portman plays Gracie and Jake Gyllenhaal plays Tommy in fine supporting performances in their own right. I liked The Hurt Locker, whose protagonist at the end of the movie also has a difficult time adjusting to real life. Brothers goes one step further, showing the guilt a man must bear when forced to murder a friend for the sake of his family.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
This was an emotional experience that I feel hit all the right notes. Not given nearly enough credit at the Golden Globes, Brothers is a 2009 film you don't want to miss.
Food Inc. (Bob says 2 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Robert Kenner directs this documentary on large-scale agricultural food production in the United States. The film received controversy because of its negative depiction of the industry, displaying hidden costs and the unhealthy and harmful practices inflicted on animals, workers and consumers. I'm convinced that eating healthy, organic food is a much better choice for meals any day of the week. The problem, as the documentary notes, is that the best choices are also the most expensive ones. Thus, we continue to compromise. Food Inc. is a good film that encourages consumers to get on the band wagon and make wiser decisions with the food we purchase. Eventually, businesses will notice.
2. Would I watch it again? NO
This was very informative and engaging, but I probably wouldn't rush out to see it repeatedly. The film does have an important message and is worth your rental.
Robert Kenner directs this documentary on large-scale agricultural food production in the United States. The film received controversy because of its negative depiction of the industry, displaying hidden costs and the unhealthy and harmful practices inflicted on animals, workers and consumers. I'm convinced that eating healthy, organic food is a much better choice for meals any day of the week. The problem, as the documentary notes, is that the best choices are also the most expensive ones. Thus, we continue to compromise. Food Inc. is a good film that encourages consumers to get on the band wagon and make wiser decisions with the food we purchase. Eventually, businesses will notice.
2. Would I watch it again? NO
This was very informative and engaging, but I probably wouldn't rush out to see it repeatedly. The film does have an important message and is worth your rental.
Trucker (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
It's indie films like this that I just eat up. Michelle Monaghan plays Diane Ford, an independent truck driver who enjoys one night stands with men and drinking all night with her friend Runner (now there's a role reversal for ya.) Suddenly, her estranged eleven year-old son Peter is dropped at her doorstep. Diane is not interested in bonding with Peter, but is forced to take care of him while his dad's in the hospital. What could have been a movie fit only for Lifetime and the Hallmark Channel is raised to greatness by some great performances and a smart script by James Mottern. Nathan Fillion, who I enjoyed watching in the Firefly series, gives a strong supporting performance as Diane's neighbor who would prefer to be more than just a buddy to Diane.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
The story is fairly simple, but the feel of this movie really sucked me into this world. I just might see it again if the mood strikes me.
It's indie films like this that I just eat up. Michelle Monaghan plays Diane Ford, an independent truck driver who enjoys one night stands with men and drinking all night with her friend Runner (now there's a role reversal for ya.) Suddenly, her estranged eleven year-old son Peter is dropped at her doorstep. Diane is not interested in bonding with Peter, but is forced to take care of him while his dad's in the hospital. What could have been a movie fit only for Lifetime and the Hallmark Channel is raised to greatness by some great performances and a smart script by James Mottern. Nathan Fillion, who I enjoyed watching in the Firefly series, gives a strong supporting performance as Diane's neighbor who would prefer to be more than just a buddy to Diane.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
The story is fairly simple, but the feel of this movie really sucked me into this world. I just might see it again if the mood strikes me.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Up in the Air (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I have loved all three of Jason Reitman's feature films. Thank You For Smoking I saw because there was nothing I wanted to watch in particular and turned out to be my favorite film of 2006. Juno was my second favorite film of 2007, virtually tied for first with Once. Reitman is such a great writer, melding a terrific sense of humor with some powerful dramatic moments. Here comes another film destined for my top ten list. My pastor commented in a sermon last Sunday that people are constantly moving and have no patience to wait for anything. George Clooney's character Ryan Bingham thrives on moving, taking flights all around the country to fire employees for corporations with bosses too scared to do it themselves. Ryan's constant travel makes it impossible for him to have any personal relationships, and he likes it that way. When his company decides to conduct their layoffs over the internet instead of in person, Ryan is furious. He's not actually concerned this new method will make the firings less personable, he's mad the lack of traveling will force him to have a life where relationships will now be a necessary part of his life. Along the way, he realizes he does indeed want a more meaningful relationship with Alex, a woman he often hooks up with for sex while traveling. He also must train a young female hotshot how to do his job right, as he's convinced she knows nothing about firing people. The interactions he has with these two women are fantastic and the ending to this film took me completely by surprise. Of the films nominated for Golden Globes this year, this is my favorite.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I see myself collecting Reitman's films until he makes a dud. If that's possible. This is one of the most talented filmmakers I have seen emerge in the twenty-first century.
I have loved all three of Jason Reitman's feature films. Thank You For Smoking I saw because there was nothing I wanted to watch in particular and turned out to be my favorite film of 2006. Juno was my second favorite film of 2007, virtually tied for first with Once. Reitman is such a great writer, melding a terrific sense of humor with some powerful dramatic moments. Here comes another film destined for my top ten list. My pastor commented in a sermon last Sunday that people are constantly moving and have no patience to wait for anything. George Clooney's character Ryan Bingham thrives on moving, taking flights all around the country to fire employees for corporations with bosses too scared to do it themselves. Ryan's constant travel makes it impossible for him to have any personal relationships, and he likes it that way. When his company decides to conduct their layoffs over the internet instead of in person, Ryan is furious. He's not actually concerned this new method will make the firings less personable, he's mad the lack of traveling will force him to have a life where relationships will now be a necessary part of his life. Along the way, he realizes he does indeed want a more meaningful relationship with Alex, a woman he often hooks up with for sex while traveling. He also must train a young female hotshot how to do his job right, as he's convinced she knows nothing about firing people. The interactions he has with these two women are fantastic and the ending to this film took me completely by surprise. Of the films nominated for Golden Globes this year, this is my favorite.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I see myself collecting Reitman's films until he makes a dud. If that's possible. This is one of the most talented filmmakers I have seen emerge in the twenty-first century.
Avatar (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
There have been some really awesome visual experiences in film this year. Avatar, currently the box office winner of 2009, is no exception. Cameron actually had the script ready to go ten years earlier, but decided to wait for technology to catch up with the vision he had in mind. I saw the film in 3-D, although I think it would work perfectly fine in two dimensional format. In 2154, humans have come to the Pandora moon to mine a mineral known as unobtainium. In the process, they are pushing a blue-skinned humanoid species known as the Na'vi off their homeland. In order to improve relations with the Na'vi, the humans transfer their consciousnesses and motor functions over to Na'vi-looking bodies known as avatars. Because it's science fiction, there is no need to question how the technology actually works to accomplish this. Hey, it's the future. Jake Scully, one of the avatar operators, is rescued in the jungle one night by a Na'vi named Neytiri. Jake slowly begins to develop a relationship with the Na'vi and even closer with Neytiri. It's amazing how technology has come so far as to show such powerful expressions of emotion by Neytiri, played by Zoe Saldana from Star Trek. Some critics of the film dismiss this story as being told before and therefore not worthy of the hype it has received. It may have been told before, but I think almost every story has been told before in some format. What changes are the characters and the details. And the details (especially the technological ones) of this film are well worth the acclaim it has received.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
James Cameron has made some great films, including Aliens, Terminator 1 & 2 and Titanic. I like those films even better than this one, but I very well could see this movie again.
There have been some really awesome visual experiences in film this year. Avatar, currently the box office winner of 2009, is no exception. Cameron actually had the script ready to go ten years earlier, but decided to wait for technology to catch up with the vision he had in mind. I saw the film in 3-D, although I think it would work perfectly fine in two dimensional format. In 2154, humans have come to the Pandora moon to mine a mineral known as unobtainium. In the process, they are pushing a blue-skinned humanoid species known as the Na'vi off their homeland. In order to improve relations with the Na'vi, the humans transfer their consciousnesses and motor functions over to Na'vi-looking bodies known as avatars. Because it's science fiction, there is no need to question how the technology actually works to accomplish this. Hey, it's the future. Jake Scully, one of the avatar operators, is rescued in the jungle one night by a Na'vi named Neytiri. Jake slowly begins to develop a relationship with the Na'vi and even closer with Neytiri. It's amazing how technology has come so far as to show such powerful expressions of emotion by Neytiri, played by Zoe Saldana from Star Trek. Some critics of the film dismiss this story as being told before and therefore not worthy of the hype it has received. It may have been told before, but I think almost every story has been told before in some format. What changes are the characters and the details. And the details (especially the technological ones) of this film are well worth the acclaim it has received.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
James Cameron has made some great films, including Aliens, Terminator 1 & 2 and Titanic. I like those films even better than this one, but I very well could see this movie again.
Precious (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Enjoy might not be the most accurate word. I thought it was well done. It seems that there's an anger trilogy of films I've seen this year: Where The Wild Things Are, Lymelife and Precious. Precious may be the darkest of them all. This is about an overweight sixteen-year-old girl who has been raped since childhood by her father, being impregnated twice because of it and is now living with an extremely resentful and verbally abusive mother. On top of that, she has been moved to an alternative school for students struggling in the public school system. And you think you have it rough! While much of this film is layer upon layer of sad scenes and events, the film provides two characters who take the time to reach out to Precious, played by Paula Patton and Mariah Carey. These two ladies don't suggest to the audience that Precious will now have it easy, but they send the message that they love and care about her. I would recommend Oscar nominations for all of the actresses in this film, including Mo'Nique who plays Precious' abusive and defeated mother.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is not one of those films you'll rush out to see in theaters repeatedly. It's too sad to generate that reaction. But someday I may see this again, as it's a reminder that there are those in the world who are mistreated everywhere they go and need someone to reach out and love them.
Enjoy might not be the most accurate word. I thought it was well done. It seems that there's an anger trilogy of films I've seen this year: Where The Wild Things Are, Lymelife and Precious. Precious may be the darkest of them all. This is about an overweight sixteen-year-old girl who has been raped since childhood by her father, being impregnated twice because of it and is now living with an extremely resentful and verbally abusive mother. On top of that, she has been moved to an alternative school for students struggling in the public school system. And you think you have it rough! While much of this film is layer upon layer of sad scenes and events, the film provides two characters who take the time to reach out to Precious, played by Paula Patton and Mariah Carey. These two ladies don't suggest to the audience that Precious will now have it easy, but they send the message that they love and care about her. I would recommend Oscar nominations for all of the actresses in this film, including Mo'Nique who plays Precious' abusive and defeated mother.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is not one of those films you'll rush out to see in theaters repeatedly. It's too sad to generate that reaction. But someday I may see this again, as it's a reminder that there are those in the world who are mistreated everywhere they go and need someone to reach out and love them.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Lymelife (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I had Lyme Disease back in 2007, a very frightening two months of my life that included ten days of hospitalization. For many people, the symptoms can last much longer and can be irreversible. Lymelife is not really about the disease per se, but the outbreak of Lyme upon the town of Syosset and specifically with neighbor Charlie Bragg sets the tone of darkness and anger upon a suburban family. Alec Baldwin plays Mickey, a man devoted to his job of developing a large subdivision but completely undevoted and unfaithful to his wife. His youngest son Scott (played by Rory Culkin), learns about this first hand when he realizes his father is having an affair with Charlie's wife Melissa. Scott goes through a lot of emotions here: love and anger at his dad and infatuation with Charlie's daughter Adrianna, played by the very attractive Emma Roberts. It's also nice to see Rory's older brother Kieran playing his brother in the film with some very emotional scenes as well.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is quite an unpleasant movie for a comedic drama, but I did understand the pain the characters in this film go through. I may watch it again as the acting is top notch, just not when I need a film that will lift my spirits.
I had Lyme Disease back in 2007, a very frightening two months of my life that included ten days of hospitalization. For many people, the symptoms can last much longer and can be irreversible. Lymelife is not really about the disease per se, but the outbreak of Lyme upon the town of Syosset and specifically with neighbor Charlie Bragg sets the tone of darkness and anger upon a suburban family. Alec Baldwin plays Mickey, a man devoted to his job of developing a large subdivision but completely undevoted and unfaithful to his wife. His youngest son Scott (played by Rory Culkin), learns about this first hand when he realizes his father is having an affair with Charlie's wife Melissa. Scott goes through a lot of emotions here: love and anger at his dad and infatuation with Charlie's daughter Adrianna, played by the very attractive Emma Roberts. It's also nice to see Rory's older brother Kieran playing his brother in the film with some very emotional scenes as well.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
This is quite an unpleasant movie for a comedic drama, but I did understand the pain the characters in this film go through. I may watch it again as the acting is top notch, just not when I need a film that will lift my spirits.
An Education (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I love movie titles that have more than one meaning behind them. An Education is one of them. Jenny Miller has high aspirations for herself. She's a good student and hopes to attend Oxford University upon graduation. One day she's given a ride home by a middle aged man named David Goldman. Jenny finds David very charming, especially when he uses this charm to persuade Jenny's parents to allow him to take her to concerts, clubs and eventually to Paris. I don't know any parents who would let a man in his early thirties take their seventeen year-old daughter anywhere, but these parents do. They are persuaded the culture and a presumably well-off man like David is a good thing for her. Jenny is swept away in this new world until she witnesses David and his friend Dominic steal expensive belongings from a house up for sale. She has second thoughts but is so enamored with her new life that she is willing to overlook this and the concerns from her teacher and principal at school. Jenny receives an education outside of the classroom that she will never forget. Whether she decides to abandon her potential inside the classroom I will not reveal here, but there is a twist at the end that Jenny never sees coming. This is a great film that hasn't been seen by that many people, but I encourage you to find a theater that's playing it while you have a chance. It's worth your while.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Peter Sarsgaard has had a very good year, though the general public has overlooked this film and the disturbing horror film Orphan. I continue to enjoy seeing him in films, he makes very good choices with the roles he picks and doesn't sell out to appear in the latest blockbuster. I would certainly not mind seeing this film again.
I love movie titles that have more than one meaning behind them. An Education is one of them. Jenny Miller has high aspirations for herself. She's a good student and hopes to attend Oxford University upon graduation. One day she's given a ride home by a middle aged man named David Goldman. Jenny finds David very charming, especially when he uses this charm to persuade Jenny's parents to allow him to take her to concerts, clubs and eventually to Paris. I don't know any parents who would let a man in his early thirties take their seventeen year-old daughter anywhere, but these parents do. They are persuaded the culture and a presumably well-off man like David is a good thing for her. Jenny is swept away in this new world until she witnesses David and his friend Dominic steal expensive belongings from a house up for sale. She has second thoughts but is so enamored with her new life that she is willing to overlook this and the concerns from her teacher and principal at school. Jenny receives an education outside of the classroom that she will never forget. Whether she decides to abandon her potential inside the classroom I will not reveal here, but there is a twist at the end that Jenny never sees coming. This is a great film that hasn't been seen by that many people, but I encourage you to find a theater that's playing it while you have a chance. It's worth your while.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Peter Sarsgaard has had a very good year, though the general public has overlooked this film and the disturbing horror film Orphan. I continue to enjoy seeing him in films, he makes very good choices with the roles he picks and doesn't sell out to appear in the latest blockbuster. I would certainly not mind seeing this film again.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Big Man Japan (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Christopher Guest did some great mockumentary films with This is Spinal Tap, Waiting For Guffman and Best in Show. This film, written, directed and starring Hitoshi Matsumoto, is the first I have seen devoted to the life of a superhero. The film's premise is a documentary on the life of Daisoto and his alter ego, Big Man Japan. Big Man Japan protects Japan from various monsters that threaten the nation, all very humorous looking and very imaginative. The special effects in this film are intentionally cheesy, poking fun at the Godzilla movies and perhaps the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Daisoto we find out is a man who really has a crappy life given what he does for a living. His living quarters are unremarkable, he is separated from his wife and daughter and the average person would probably identify him as a bum. Matsumoto plays his role straight, which is what makes the film so funny. I laughed out loud when Big Man is holding a baby monster who then bites him in the nipple. He drops the monster, who dies and is dramatically taken up to heaven. There are many other funny moments which I won't reveal here. Just see this film. It's so strange you can't help but laugh.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I saw this film by myself on DVD and thought it was hilarious. I'll bet it's twice as funny watching it with a few friends.
Christopher Guest did some great mockumentary films with This is Spinal Tap, Waiting For Guffman and Best in Show. This film, written, directed and starring Hitoshi Matsumoto, is the first I have seen devoted to the life of a superhero. The film's premise is a documentary on the life of Daisoto and his alter ego, Big Man Japan. Big Man Japan protects Japan from various monsters that threaten the nation, all very humorous looking and very imaginative. The special effects in this film are intentionally cheesy, poking fun at the Godzilla movies and perhaps the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Daisoto we find out is a man who really has a crappy life given what he does for a living. His living quarters are unremarkable, he is separated from his wife and daughter and the average person would probably identify him as a bum. Matsumoto plays his role straight, which is what makes the film so funny. I laughed out loud when Big Man is holding a baby monster who then bites him in the nipple. He drops the monster, who dies and is dramatically taken up to heaven. There are many other funny moments which I won't reveal here. Just see this film. It's so strange you can't help but laugh.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I saw this film by myself on DVD and thought it was hilarious. I'll bet it's twice as funny watching it with a few friends.
500 Days of Summer (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I really identified with Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character Tom Hansen in this film. Levitt and screenwriter Scott Neustadter paint such a realistic portrait of a guy going through the emotions of being involved with a girl he absolutely adores, while she doesn't quite feel the same way. Sure Summer Finn likes Tom alright, as she's willing to be physical with Tom, but it's not enough to change her negative thinking about committed relationships. Often you see the girl's point of view in films like this and they usually have a cliche ending in which the guy and the girl end up together. This film makes it clear at the start that this will not happen. It's heartbreaking at the end of the picture as Summer admits her thinking to Tom as she's about to marry another man. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention how funny this film is. Tom's scene of excitement at the beginning of his relationship with Summer is so humorously fantastic, yet very realistic on an emotional level. If you did not see this in theaters, rent it asap.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I enjoyed this movie from start to finish. This is one of the top ten films of 2009.
I really identified with Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character Tom Hansen in this film. Levitt and screenwriter Scott Neustadter paint such a realistic portrait of a guy going through the emotions of being involved with a girl he absolutely adores, while she doesn't quite feel the same way. Sure Summer Finn likes Tom alright, as she's willing to be physical with Tom, but it's not enough to change her negative thinking about committed relationships. Often you see the girl's point of view in films like this and they usually have a cliche ending in which the guy and the girl end up together. This film makes it clear at the start that this will not happen. It's heartbreaking at the end of the picture as Summer admits her thinking to Tom as she's about to marry another man. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention how funny this film is. Tom's scene of excitement at the beginning of his relationship with Summer is so humorously fantastic, yet very realistic on an emotional level. If you did not see this in theaters, rent it asap.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
I enjoyed this movie from start to finish. This is one of the top ten films of 2009.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Where The Wild Things Are (Bob says 2 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? SOME OF IT
Both Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Where The Wild Things Are are books I read as a child in elementary school. I can also say that their filmed versions were so-so and could have been better. This film in particular is quite angry in tone. Perhaps the child is still going through a lot because his parents are not together anymore. Sometimes you never quite know for sure what kids are going through, as I have noticed through substitute teaching. But the problem I had with the film is that because I couldn't quite understand Max's anger, I didn't like him as much as I thought I should. In tone, Spike Jonze doesn't quite commit to being either completely dark or completely kid friendly and fun. Instead, he has an odd mix which made it hard for me to say after one viewing how well it worked.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
The wild things portion of this movie is certainly a mix of comedy and anger, a projection of Max's feelings created in fantasy form. James Gandolfini's Carol sounds a lot like Tony Soprano, which made me want to watch that series more than this film. But it certainly is unique and could be worthy of a second opinion somewhere down the line.
Both Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Where The Wild Things Are are books I read as a child in elementary school. I can also say that their filmed versions were so-so and could have been better. This film in particular is quite angry in tone. Perhaps the child is still going through a lot because his parents are not together anymore. Sometimes you never quite know for sure what kids are going through, as I have noticed through substitute teaching. But the problem I had with the film is that because I couldn't quite understand Max's anger, I didn't like him as much as I thought I should. In tone, Spike Jonze doesn't quite commit to being either completely dark or completely kid friendly and fun. Instead, he has an odd mix which made it hard for me to say after one viewing how well it worked.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
The wild things portion of this movie is certainly a mix of comedy and anger, a projection of Max's feelings created in fantasy form. James Gandolfini's Carol sounds a lot like Tony Soprano, which made me want to watch that series more than this film. But it certainly is unique and could be worthy of a second opinion somewhere down the line.
Invictus (Bob says 3 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
Clint Eastwood has had one of the best runs as a director these past few decades. From Unforgiven to Mystic River to Gran Torino, Eastwood seems to strike the perfect note with each of his films (I had a problem with the ending in Million Dollar Baby, but this is a rare exception). Invictus, his latest entry, stars Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela, the President of South Africa. Mandela hopes the South African rugbee team the Springboks, once a team that represented a country of apartheid racism, can transform into a team that shows off a nation committed to taring down the walls of segregation and being a force for good. However, the team is in bad shape and needs inspiration and drive if they plan on modeling a team of greatness. I know little about rugby and was surprised how violent a sport it can be. The rugby scenes are engaging, although I did wish this film focused more on Mandela's history and life rather than his relationship with the rugby team. But Eastwood wanted to have a more narrow focus this time out, and makes the most of his material.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
Although this is not the best film I've seen from Clint Eastwood, it's still good and therefore not a bad choice for a second viewing. I'm more interested though in checking out some of his other directorial projects of the past. This is quite a talented man.
Clint Eastwood has had one of the best runs as a director these past few decades. From Unforgiven to Mystic River to Gran Torino, Eastwood seems to strike the perfect note with each of his films (I had a problem with the ending in Million Dollar Baby, but this is a rare exception). Invictus, his latest entry, stars Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela, the President of South Africa. Mandela hopes the South African rugbee team the Springboks, once a team that represented a country of apartheid racism, can transform into a team that shows off a nation committed to taring down the walls of segregation and being a force for good. However, the team is in bad shape and needs inspiration and drive if they plan on modeling a team of greatness. I know little about rugby and was surprised how violent a sport it can be. The rugby scenes are engaging, although I did wish this film focused more on Mandela's history and life rather than his relationship with the rugby team. But Eastwood wanted to have a more narrow focus this time out, and makes the most of his material.
2. Would I watch it again? MAYBE
Although this is not the best film I've seen from Clint Eastwood, it's still good and therefore not a bad choice for a second viewing. I'm more interested though in checking out some of his other directorial projects of the past. This is quite a talented man.
I Love You, Man (Bob says 4 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? YES
I have always been a person who prefers to have a few really close friends rather than a lot of friends I'm not that close to. And so I can identify with Peter Klaven, who realizes after getting engaged that he has very few friends to pick from when attempting to determine who will be his best man. In fact, aside from his own family, Peter has no guy friends. And so Peter begins a hilarious mission to go on man dates to see if there are any guys he can connect with. Some of them think he's gay, some don't like him and some make annoying seem like a complement. Then he meets Sydney Fife, played by Jason Segel. It seems like a perfect match, but could it be too good? This is a terrific movie, with a lot of great laughs. Screenwriters John Hamburg and Larry Levin have the male dialogue spot on, and it was great to see Lou Ferrigno in a small role playing a version of himself.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Jason Segel has had back to back years in which he's been in some very funny films. This movie did not have quite as many belly laughs as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, but I almost like it better as a film. But nevermind, both movies are great and movies I definitely wouldn't mind seeing again.
I have always been a person who prefers to have a few really close friends rather than a lot of friends I'm not that close to. And so I can identify with Peter Klaven, who realizes after getting engaged that he has very few friends to pick from when attempting to determine who will be his best man. In fact, aside from his own family, Peter has no guy friends. And so Peter begins a hilarious mission to go on man dates to see if there are any guys he can connect with. Some of them think he's gay, some don't like him and some make annoying seem like a complement. Then he meets Sydney Fife, played by Jason Segel. It seems like a perfect match, but could it be too good? This is a terrific movie, with a lot of great laughs. Screenwriters John Hamburg and Larry Levin have the male dialogue spot on, and it was great to see Lou Ferrigno in a small role playing a version of himself.
2. Would I watch it again? YES
Jason Segel has had back to back years in which he's been in some very funny films. This movie did not have quite as many belly laughs as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, but I almost like it better as a film. But nevermind, both movies are great and movies I definitely wouldn't mind seeing again.
Inglourious Basterds (Bob says 2 out of 4)
1. Did I enjoy it? SOME OF IT
Quentin Tarantino's latest picture, up for several Golden Globe nominations and very likely a candidate for Oscar nominations, is a unique approach to World War II, focusing on a small Allied regimen lead by Brad Pitt. Known as The Basterds, the group is known for recruiting individuals who show no mercy to the Nazis and scalp as many officers as they can get their hands on. These scalpings are shown and are very gruesome. Tarantino seems to enjoy showing grizzly images in his films, as he also did with a scene in which a man's ear is cut off during the film Reservoir Dogs. It hardly seems necessary to show these scenes except for their own sake. I did, however, enjoy the story concerning two separate assasination attempts of Adolf Hitler. It's not a secret that Tarantino has a fictionalized ending in which Hitler is indeed killed. I suspect many people have had this fantasy, in which the evil Nazi leader does not escape by taking his own life, but is punished by the Allied Powers. Christoph Waltz also has a great performance as a Nazi Colonel Hans Landa, a ruthless man nicknamed the "Jew hunter." This is a very violent film with an unpleasant attitude about it, although it is well-made, well-acted and the dialogue is first-rate.
2. Would I see it again? MAYBE
I definitely prefer Pulp Fiction and the Kill Bill films to this picture, but because I admire Tarantino's style as a screenwriter and director, it is likely I will see this film again someday.
Quentin Tarantino's latest picture, up for several Golden Globe nominations and very likely a candidate for Oscar nominations, is a unique approach to World War II, focusing on a small Allied regimen lead by Brad Pitt. Known as The Basterds, the group is known for recruiting individuals who show no mercy to the Nazis and scalp as many officers as they can get their hands on. These scalpings are shown and are very gruesome. Tarantino seems to enjoy showing grizzly images in his films, as he also did with a scene in which a man's ear is cut off during the film Reservoir Dogs. It hardly seems necessary to show these scenes except for their own sake. I did, however, enjoy the story concerning two separate assasination attempts of Adolf Hitler. It's not a secret that Tarantino has a fictionalized ending in which Hitler is indeed killed. I suspect many people have had this fantasy, in which the evil Nazi leader does not escape by taking his own life, but is punished by the Allied Powers. Christoph Waltz also has a great performance as a Nazi Colonel Hans Landa, a ruthless man nicknamed the "Jew hunter." This is a very violent film with an unpleasant attitude about it, although it is well-made, well-acted and the dialogue is first-rate.
2. Would I see it again? MAYBE
I definitely prefer Pulp Fiction and the Kill Bill films to this picture, but because I admire Tarantino's style as a screenwriter and director, it is likely I will see this film again someday.
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