L.A.Melbox

The Grey

2012-01-26T19:18:00.000-08:00

Liam Neeson is a survivor. In The Grey he is a survivor, too. After their plane crashes in the Alaskan wilderness, Ottway and a group of fellow roughnecks struggle to endure extreme weather, ferocious wolves and worst of all, each other. In the Arctic men are tough, rugged and strong of spirit, but Mother Nature is the great equalizer and she is not fighting fair.

As a natural leader, Ottway tries to gather the men and make provisions for their eventual rescue. But first he must face off Diaz (Frank Grillo) an ex-con who is anything but agreeable. Those who make it past the first day must now bind together and work towards a common goal. But when you are dealing with contentious, antisocial, independent men, this is easier said than done.

In the shadows, just out of sight, there is a presence sinister and grave. Ottway knows it’s the wolves; it’s been his job to track them down. But now, without a rifle, the two killers are on equal terms. The wolves show their hand and one by one they start taking the survivors down. Will Ottway keep everyone safe? Or, is death just a matter of time? The Grey is about living and dying and the peace you must make with yourself every day.

Shot on location in 40 below weather The Grey is completely authentic when it comes to the Arctic conditions. But the wolves are mythic, ethereal and larger than life. This is not a documentary or just a survival tale, this film is spiritual, epic and concerns the soul. This is a film about life and death and what we hold dear. The wolves in many ways are a metaphor.

As a fan of adventure films I did like The Grey, but to be honest, I didn’t love it. I would see anything with Liam Neeson in it, so that wasn’t the problem. He is very good here. My problem with the film was its spiritual nature. I was hoping for more complexity and more personal change within the characters. If you are in a group of men and you are being picked off one by one and you have no idea who is going to be next, it is going to shake you to the very core. The film does touch on this, but for me it was too superficial. On the plus side there are some great death scenes, good action sequences and some breathtaking photography of nature’s severest weather. The wolves are scary, too. All in all, this film will make you shiver in more ways than one.

Rating: Bargain Matinee A cool thriller

Haywire

2012-01-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

A Marine Corps dad (Bill Paxton) raises his daughter to be tough, independent, honorable and brave, she evens grows up to become a Marine herself. But when she starts working as an independent contractor and things go wrong Mallory brings her problem home and instead of looking proud, Dad looks a little horrified. His little girl (Gina Carano) is a fierce mixed martial arts fighter and seeing her in action is frightening. As played by a true-life champion Gina Carano, she is not one to mess with.

I’m not sure what kind of film career Carano is going to have but watching her in action I had a desire to see her paired with other Hollywood bad-asses. The first one that came to mind was Jason Stratham. Now that’s a pairing I’d like to see. But for now we must evaluate her based on this movie.

Haywire has a stellar cast. We got to see Carano do battle with Channing Tatum, Michael Fassbender, Ewan McGregor and various other thugs. Also in the cast are Michael Douglas and Antonio Banderas. So this is no straight to video shot for Carano she is being groomed and she is being given a fighting chance. She has the skill, but does she have the star power. At this point her acting lacks depth, but there is room for improvement. At least she is not terrible. And although she does clean up nice, she lacks the sexuality of some of our other action stars such as Angelina Jolie or Zoe Saldana. But she is fierce and attractive, so we’ll see what Hollywood can do with our newest action star. I think with a little help she can be fantastic.

Rating: Bargain Matinee This lady is fierce

Win Win

2012-01-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

An act of selfishness backfires and forces a man to open his life to a senile old man, a troubled teen and a mercenary daughter with heavy baggage. This intrusion not only impacts Mike Flaherty (Paul Giamatti) but his entire family as well. Amy Ryan stars as Jackie, Mike Flaherty’s wife and at first she is very upset with her husband. But when her mother’s instinct kicks in and she bonds with the boy Kyle (Alex Shaffer) all she wants to do is kick his mother’s ass.

This all started when Mike, who is a lawyer, signed up to be Leo Poplar’s legal guardian. Leo, played by Burt Young, is wealthy and his guardianship comes with a $1,500.00 monthly conservator fee. Mike is struggling in his small town practice so he convinces the judge to let him take over so Leo could stay in his private home instead of becoming a ward of the state. But as soon as Mike has custody he moves Leo into a senior care facility, a nice one, but not his home.

What makes Win Win so endearing is the wonderful script and the relationships between the characters. Mike coaches the high school wrestling team along with his friend Stephen (Jeffrey Tambor). When it turns out that Leo’s grandson is a champion wrestler, Stephen and Mike finally see a chance of having a winning team. When things start to turn around, Bobby Cannavale as Terry joins the coaching team and the three of them are finally enjoying the taste of being winners. But when Kyle’s mom (Melanie Lynskey) shows up and challenges Mike and threatens to take Kyle and his grandpa, Mike must face his wife and confess his selfish act.

Win Win has such a delicate balance of comedy. It is funny and will take you right up to the edge but it never crosses the line into farce. It remains human and heartfelt and never loses its focus. This is a gem of a film and if you take the time to seek it out, you won’t be disappointed. It's a Win Win piece of entertainment.

Rating: First Run An act of selfishness opens a door

Warrior

2012-01-25T11:12:00.000-08:00

Two brothers grow up with something in common, an alcoholic abusive father (Nick Nolte) and a love of fighting, but when their mother decides that she has had enough and resolves to leave her husband, one brother goes with her and the other brother stays. This causes a riff between them that separates their lives. Brendon (Joel Edgerton) who is the oldest decides to stay because he is in love. He marries his high school sweetheart (Jennifer Morrison) and becomes a high school physic teacher; meanwhile Tommy (Tom Hardy) after watching his mother die has joined the Marines. Their lives are miles apart but they still have two things in common, a talent for fighting and a disdain for their dad.

Left alone to rot in his house, Paddy Conlon has a change of heart, gets himself sober and joins A.A. One day when he comes home after church, Tommy is sitting on his doorstep. Thinking that he has a chance to make amends, he greets his son warmly but Tommy wants none of that. He’s there for one reason and one reason only. Tommy wants to train. And if his dad has any value at all to his son, he was always a good trainer.

In the Marines Tommy’s best friend got killed and Tommy has vowed to take care of his comrade’s family. In Atlantic City there is a mixed Martial Arts championship and five million dollars is the prize. Meanwhile back home Brendon has his eyes on the prize too. With an upside-down mortgage and his daughter’s medical bills he needs the prize or he’ll lose his house. Once again these brothers have something in common, their eye on a prize and continued contempt for their father.

What makes this film better than your average fight film is strong performances and compelling family drama. Nick Nolte is used to great effect in this film and Edgerton and Hardy are believable as brothers. There is so much anger, bitterness and resentment being carried around by these young men that you wonder how they can concentrate on their fight. But they are both warring for someone else and both have motivations that are very powerful. Which brother will win? That is what makes Warrior exciting. There can only be one winner. Which one would you choose?

Rating: First Run An exciting family drama with kick

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

2012-01-20T10:48:00.000-08:00

Intrigue has surrounded the crown for as long as the monarchy has existed, but in World War II the game changed and the era of the modern spy began. In Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy the brightest of Great Britain were invited to join The Circus where unassuming men and women slipped in and out of non-desrcript buildings making decisions that impacted the nation. The majority of the old guard was lords, cultivated from the best of society, but after the war new recruits were gathered from all walks of life. The war was an equalizer and The Circus was looking for men and women with talent.

After World War II and fascism was put to rest, our wars became wars of ideology. Men who were conflicted in their loyalties became double agents leaking information to both sides. This is the thread that holds the story of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Who is the mole and why is he betraying his country.

Gary Oldman portrays George Smiley and his name is almost like a joke. It’s like calling a bald guy Curly, or a fat man, Slim. His somber, grey appearance makes him perfect as a spy. He’s the kind of man that people wouldn’t notice. He lives his life under a cloud of paranoia, placing markers on his front door, watching for tails, and checking the streets for people who don’t belong. His weakness is his wife and she has recently left him. If he is even sadder it is hard to tell. Smiley is a dour and serious man.

When Smiley is finally taken down it is from an unexpected source. He is fired, along with his supervisor (John Hurt) when a secret mission goes horribly wrong and a fellow agent (Mark Strong) is shot. Smiley is shocked by his sudden dismissal but his intellect is telling him that there is more than meets the eye. He is pressed back into service to find the mole and now he must spy on his former friends.

This film is nothing like a modern day spy film; it is somber, bleak and very intellectual. It is a thinking man’s film and it is not easy to follow but it has tone and power and can be quite compelling. Among the suspects are Colin Firth, Tobey McQuire, and David Dencik. Gary Oldman’s character must sort through all the misdirection and find the agent that is leaking information. The only people who know about Smiley’s task is a whistleblower by the name of Peter (Benedict Cumberbatch) whom he takes on as an assistant and the Prime Minister himself. It is a lonely road that Smiley is walking and he must face betrayal on both a professional and personal level. The life of a spy is not a life of glamor. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy makes this fact perfectly clear.

Rating: First Run A thinking man’s spy film

The Adventures of Tintin

2012-01-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

I love going into a film cold with no pre-conceived notions and in turn being thrilled and delighted. Such was the case of The Adventures of Tintin, a lovely adventure story with an old-time yet contemporary flair. The animation is so realistic that in the beginning I couldn’t understand why they didn’t make it a live-action film. But as the movie began to become more fantastic and imaginative I realized that only animation would due. This is an adventure story, like the type that was published in the thirties and forties. Young adults are the central characters and they are full of energy and conviction and have none of the fear that comes with failure.

Tintin is a boy reporter who has a passion for facts and truth. Using his instincts and not afraid to crack open a book, he’ll follow his nose, do the research and keep going until the story is unearthed. He is likable, sincere and beloved by his dog, Snowy. The two together are a mystery-solving team and his reputation for good work is well known in the community.

Our story begins when Tintin purchases a model ship that has suddenly become very popular. In fact the ship is attracting so much interest that Tintin’s reporter’s nose is telling him that it has a hidden value somewhere. After being chased, burglarized, kidnapped and hit on the head, Tintin knows that his instincts were right and he comes after the truth like a dog and his bone, Snowy is right alongside him.

The animation in The Adventures of Tintin is fantastic. Directed by Steven Spielberg it has all the charm, nuance and complexity of a Steven Spielberg film. It’s fun too, with interesting characters, great locations, and a wonderful voice cast lead by Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig, Nick Frost and Simon Pegg. If this was a live action film the budget would have been staggering. But the beauty of animation is that it can take you anywhere in the world and as far as your imagination can go.

The Adventures of Tintin is a delightful yarn, and I can even see the possibility of sequels. It’s great fun, highly artful and exciting to boot. With pirates, stolen treasure, secret codes, prop planes, mutinying and desert Sheiks, The Adventures of Tintin will satisfy all. It is a timeless story told incredibly well. I highly recommend this film.

Rating: First Run An animated film for the adults (P.S. Worth it to see in 3D)

We Bought A Zoo

2011-12-31T20:31:00.000-08:00

When an adventure seeking widower comes to his wit’s end trying to care for his motherless children he does something unexpected and crazy, he quits his job and buys a zoo. Now it was not his intention to buy a zoo. He fell in love with a house and it just happened to have a zoo attached to it. And since, after seeing the animals, it was the first time he heard his daughter laugh in over six months he did what any good dad would do. He wrapped himself around her little finger.

Matt Damon stars as Benjamin Mee and he has an earnest, just trying to hang on vibe that makes him quite adorable. Equally adorable is Maggie Elizabeth Jones who plays his precious daughter. Colin Ford portrays Dylan Mee and he is troubled, hurt and has gone over to the dark side. His poor behavior has gotten him kicked out of school and his latest episode is what prompted their move.

With the zoo came a support staff who was charged with keeping the animals healthy until a new owner was found. Scarlett Johansson plays the head zoo keeper and in this film she has a natural, earthy look. I have to say I prefer her this way. Also part of the staff is her niece played by the lovely Elle Fanning. Angus Macfadyen portrays a quirky, eccentric zoological designer and John Michael Higgins plays the government inspector who is this film serves as the villain. Also playing is Thomas Haden Church as Benjamin Mee’s no-nonsense brother.

We Bought A Zoo is a sweet movie with lovable animals and likable humans. Matt Damon spends a lot of time mourning his wife, while his kids are obviously affected by her death. This is a chance for them all to start over, for the Mees and the Rosemoor Animal Park. Both are in need of a little rehabilitation and a lot of love. With this zoo comes a new start and a new family. The Mees and Rosemoor are made for each other.

Rating: First Run A warm family film

Shame

2011-12-31T19:43:00.000-08:00

Shame is a story about a man who is addicted to sex and pornography. So far he has been able to hide his proclivities, but as his past begins to catch up with him, he starts to feel shame and a sense of manic tension. When his sister shows up unexpectedly, she cramps his lifestyle of one night stands and hookers. Their circumstances become strained as they are both proven to be tortured, tormented souls. We know nothing about their past or their relationship other than it is an unhealthy one.

Michael Fassbender plays Brandon Sullivan in Shame and his performance is a study in deconstruction. We literally watch a man fall apart. His sister, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, is a fragile wounded bird. Everything she does is a cry for help. This is a story of two very damaged people. Their connection, their similarities are what drives them apart.

Shame is full of nudity, graphic sex and disturbing images. It was interesting as I watched people leave the theatre. Two ladies left during a menage a trois scene and another man left when Brandon Sullivan enters a gay bar. But my reaction to the film was very clinical. There was nothing sexy or titillating about these scenes. All I felt was a detached sadness. Sexual addiction is a real disorder and it can really mess up your life.

Shame is a brave film about a very distasteful subject. Michael Fassbender’s performance is extraordinary and he demonstrates the ravages of his psychosis. This film is not for everybody, but if you do choose to view it you will be rewarded with two memorable performances and an insight into a terrible affliction. These are two people that definitely need help. Sexual addiction is a true disorder.

Rating: First Run A brave performance by Michael Fassbender

Happy 400 Aniversary

2011-12-31T13:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends, Family and Followers,

This marks my 400th post and I wanted to write this note before midnight. When I started this blog in February of 2009 I had no idea I'd still be going strong 400 posts later. Even though I saw more movies this year than I did last year I wrote less reviews because they are very time consuming and it has been a very busy year. But every time I think about quitting, I will get a cool comment or reaction and that keeps me going forward.

For those of you who visit Cinemovie.tv you know that I am a contributing writer there as well. Cinemovie has given me the opportunity to attend major press junkets and interview stars right along with the best of them. When I sit in a screening with greats like Leonard Maltin I am secretly pleased with myself because no one there knows I am a rookie. As far as they are are concerned, I am a pro just like the rest of them.

I hope you have enjoyed my reviews, but more importantly I hope you have found them useful, whether it's saving you money or finding a good film to see or rent. I'll keep this up as long as I can. It is a labour of love.

Happy New Year!

A Separation

2011-12-31T13:34:00.000-08:00

It is so easy for us to close our minds to other cultures and religions, but when you see a movie like A Separation it reminds us how much we are alike. A Separation is set in the country of Iran where a husband and wife are sitting in front of a judge asking for a divorce. In this judicial system there are no lawyers or big fancy courtrooms, it is just a man and a women sitting in a small office before a judge. When the judge asks the wife Simin (Leila Hatami) why she wants a divorce, her reply is, “He won’t come with me.”

Simin is a modern day woman and although she wears the head scarf of her culture her other clothes are contemporary. She wants to move outside of Iran and she wants her daughter to have more opportunities. But her husband won’t leave because he is caring for his senile father. He won’t hold his wife, but he won’t let his daughter go. For Simin this is a problem.

The judge is not sympathetic to the woman’s plight. In his opinion she should just go home. And he is offended by her unpatriotic views that Iran is not a place of opportunity. But Simin is resolute. She must leave, she has to leave and her exit visa expires in 40 days. Unable to get the judge to see her side she decides to leave her husband anyway. He is now charged with caring for his father by himself. Since he can’t leave his father alone while he works and his daughter is at school he hires a woman to work in the home. But Razieh (Sareh Bayat) is untrained and unskilled to care for a man with Alzheimer’s disease. Things do not go well and Nader (Peyman Maadi) and Razieh have a big fight.

The next thing we know is that Razieh is in the hospital and Nadar is being charged with murder. Razieh had a miscarriage and Nadar is being given the blame. We are now back in front of the judge where he must sort through all the he said, she saids, looking for the truth. Blame is thrown everywhere and tempers are running high. A Separation is a fascinating family drama.

In addition to the cultural differences A Separation is intriguing due to its portrayal of the justice system. I was engrossed as each individual tried to find a just and fair solution while still seeking out validation and acknowledgment. Yes, both men were being stubborn, the case also involved Razieh’s husband, but both men were also right. Everyone was acting and reacting on the information on hand. But the truth was not always being told. As the court failed to act in a swift manner the people took their problem to the elders, the families. This is an old judicial system going back for millennium. I found the legal aspects of this film as fascinating as the family drama.

Peyman Maadi gives a wonderful performance as a father who goes through all the emotions from gentle tenderness and care to righteous indignation and rage. I especially enjoyed the scenes in which he displayed a fatherly pride in his daughter played by Sarina Farhadi. Sarina Farhadi is also outstanding as the only child trapped between two loving but bickering parents. Her situation will break your heart and Sarina shows a maturity well beyond her years. A Separation has come to our country full of accolades from all over the world. I encourage you to see this film, if only to learn about a culture not our own.

Rating: First Run An outstanding family drama

New Year’s Eve

2011-12-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

I’m sorry, but how can a movie so full of talented people be so flat and boring? I don’t get it. I couldn’t wait until New Year’s Eve ended. Michelle Pfeiffer who has been nominated for an Oscar three times was barely recognizable as a mousy office assistant and Hilary Swank, an actually Oscar winner, was equally bland. Robert De Niro, another Oscar winner, spends most of his performance in a hospital bed and even having Oscar winner Halle Berry as his nurse couldn’t make those scenes any more interesting. I found this film completely disappointing.

Last year I went to see Valentine’s Day with a couple of friends and we actually enjoyed it. It was silly and trite, but still entertaining. But this film, with too many actors to name was predictable, sad and lack any real sentiment or joy. When it comes to this New Year’s Eve you’re better off going to bed early.

Rating: Don’t Bother Call it an early night

Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol

2011-12-30T09:05:00.001-08:00

Dear Tom Cruise,

If you expect me to remember all the plot points and characters from your previous Mission Impossible films you need to release them more frequently than every five years or so. My memory is not that good and if I have to take in crib notes that would be too much like homework.

What I do remember from your previous films is impressions. These contain amazing action sequences such as fast motorcycle riding, death defying climbing stunts, massive gun play, explosions and the latest gadgets and technology. All these are present in your current film and I enjoy them very much. I also enjoy the relationships and loyalty of your support team. But when it comes to the plot points of all your movies I’m afraid I’m at a loss. If a villain put a gun to my head and asked me to tell him about your missions from the past you’d be stepping over my body right now because I really couldn’t. But that’s not a bad thing. It would be bad that I’d be dead, but it’s not bad that your scripts are forgettable. This series is about escape and entertainment and that you do deliver.

When it comes to the action you always try to push the envelope. Some of your stunts are so original that they first became iconic and now they are cliche. Your stunts have even recreated in cartoons and that’s just a testament to your lasting impact. But if you want your films to rise beyond featherweight popcorn fare invest more time in your women and your supporting players. Every wound and loss should hurt us deeply if we are to care about the team as a whole.

We have lost a lot of real life villains lately, Bin Laden, Saddam Hussein and Kim Jong-il. Good luck finding a worthy opponent for your next film. For most of us our villains are mortgage lenders, investment bankers and the traffic cops handing out excessive tickets to keep the city in black. Our world view is currently a little stunted as we focus on the concerns in our own backyard. But thank you for showing us that cool hotel in the richest place in the world. It was reassuring that even the rich aren’t immune to a dust storm. Nature is always the great leveler.

You still look great, are in excellent shape and I like you with the longer hair. It pleases me that you are secure enough with your height not to cheat or surround yourself with shorter actors. You always give your best and you are always entertaining. Thank you for the diversion. I’ll be there for the next one. I’m still a fan.

Sincerely,

Melanie Wilson

The Artist

2011-12-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

Motion Pictures are one of the earliest nicknames for the cinema. Like shaking a rattle in a baby’s face the public was fascinated with every moving imagine on the screen. Young, handsome, athletic actors would drive fast, ride horses, and cross swords to entertain the masses. An expressive face was like money in the bank and in the earliest days of cinema it was not uncommon for an actor to write, direct and produce. It was a fledgling industry and there were no rules. It was the time of the artist and talent ruled.

The movie The Artist begins by introducing us to our star George Valentin played by Jean Dujardin. He is handsome, dashing, charming and a total ham. He has just screened his latest film and now he is basking in the glow of accolades. When he leaves the theatre he is met by the press and legions of adoring fans. A young woman (Berenice Bejo), standing behind a velvet rope, is looking on with admiration. In an instant she is pushed by the crowd and finds herself crashing into George Valentin. He is shocked, bemused and then erupts in laughter. Peppy Miller has just had a Hollywood moment and soon she’ll become a media star.

Trading on her brush with fame Peppy lands herself a job as a background actor. That assignment brings Peppy her next and soon she is on her way to a career of her own. Peppy Miller is fresh, animated and full of life. She is determined to make her mark and she has the talent and looks to do it. But what Peppy really has is a wonderful voice and personality. When the silent era ends, this will be her ticket to stardom.

The Artist is an unusual movie in that it was made in black and white and has no spoken dialogue. We have a musical score and a smattering of sound effects, but for the most part it is a silent film. The other unusual thing about this movie is that it is written and directed by a French man (Michel Hazanavicius) stars two French actors (Dujardin and Bejo) but was filmed in Los Angeles and features American favorites such as John Goodman, James Cromwell and Penelope Ann Miller. This film is absolutely a testament to old Hollywood and really captures the joy, glamour and pathos of that time. It is a very special film and a cinematic treat. It can be enjoyed by any age and by people of any language, that was the beauty of silent film. This tribute celebrates that magical era and everyone will find it a delight.

Rating: Must See A tribute to the silent era

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

2011-12-28T18:29:00.000-08:00

Let me begin by answering the question foremost on everyone’s mind; yes, the American version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is just as good as the original from Denmark. There are subtle differences in tone and color, but a good story is a good story and will translate in any language. The key to success in the American version is the brilliant casting of Daniel Craig as Mikael Blomkvist and Rooney Mara as Lisbeth Salander. Their chemistry is essential to the film and the two of them work well together.

For those of you who do not know the story, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the first of a trilogy involving an investigative journalist named Mikael Blomkvist and an anti-social researcher and computer hack named Lisbeth Salander. They join forces to solve a mystery and find that they are a pretty good team. They form a bond that will carry them over into the next two films. Hopefully this cast will be reassembled and the next two films will be made.

The mystery of the first film contains a disappearing girl, a serial murderer, Nazi collaborators, and deep family secrets. The other mystery is Lisbeth Salander herself and how she came to be a ward of the state. Her past is a tragic one and her present is not much better. But Lisbeth is a fierce survivor and she is clever too. Blomkvist accepts her as she is and she in turn responds to his honesty. The two are good for each other and that is the beauty of this series.

It is difficult to judge the impact of a film when you are seeing a remake because there are no surprises and you know what is going to happen. But craft wise this film is very well done and I believe that even the sharpest critic will find some merit.

Rating: First Run As good as the original

The Best Films of 2011 That No One Saw

2011-12-28T18:06:00.000-08:00

In 2011 I saw over 180 films in the theatre. So, needless to say, I love movies! But some of you may be thinking, how is that possible? There weren’t that many good films? Well, the answer is independent movies and foreign films. If you take the time to look outside of the mainstream there are many wonderful movies that deserve your attention. Below is a list of some of the best movies I saw in 2011. Some you may have heard of and others only received a limited release, but luckily for all most of these films will be available to rent and I urge you to seek them out. Happy renting!

Take Shelter - This film is an exciting psychological thriller starring Michael Shannon as a man who is having apocalyptic visions regarding a catastrophic storm. He has an overwhelming urge to protect his family and becomes compulsive about expanding their backyard shelter. However, there is another element that is causing him equal distress. He fears that he is going crazy. Are these visions a cautionary gift or is he following in the schizophrenic footsteps of his mother. This film will keep you guessing until the end.

Attack the Block – I loved this little film about a bunch a teenage hoods from a South London neighborhood who try to protect their block when it is invaded by aliens from another planet. Using their street smarts they give these invaders a run for their money. The movie is fresh, smart, funny and contains some very original aliens. I guarantee you’ll be quoting this movie when it’s over. “Allow it!”

Bellflower – If you’ve ever gone through a really bad break-up then Bellflower may give your experience some new perspective. Two flame-throwing best friends have their world turned upside down when a fun-loving girl enters their life. The results are explosive.

Beginners - Christopher Plummer gives an award worthy performance as a gay man who doesn’t come out of the closet until he reaches his eighties. His son (Ewan McGregor) grew up believing that his father was straight and was bewildered by his parent’s unconventional relationship. Now he must reevaluate everything he thought he knew.

Exporting Raymond – Comedy is subjective and funny doesn’t always translate. This is the dilemma of Phil Rosenthal as he is sent to Russia to do a Russian version of his hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. I found this documentary hysterical and enlightening, too. Apparently, exporting sitcoms is big business.

The Devil’s Double – I’m not sure why Dominic Cooper’s performance has slipped through the cracks of award show consideration, perhaps it’ the violent and unsavory subject matter. The Devil’s Double tells the true story of Latif Yahia who was forced to portray Uday Hussein’s body-double. Imagine having to share the life of a vain, spoiled, out-of-control rich kid who just happens to be Saddam Hussein’s son. Dominic Cooper plays both parts and I believe that his performance is excellent and multifaceted.

The Hedgehog – I loved this quiet little French film about a young girl who becomes fascinated by her lonely widowed building super and the new Japanese tenant who just moved in. It is a story about seeing people for who they really are and looking beyond outside appearances. I was very touched by this lovely film.

Brideflight – This film was up for Academy consideration but was not released for general viewing until 2011. It is the true story of a group of young Dutch people who immigrated to New Zealand after World War II. It is one of those emotional epic sagas full of love, romance and family secrets. It’s a tear-jerker.

The Music Never Stopped – This interesting little film is based on a true story about a father and son who become estranged when their taste in music diverges. The son runs away just short of graduation and eventually turns up roaming the streets. A tumor causing severe brain damage leaves him non-commutative. He only comes out of his trance like state when music is played from a very specific era, music like Dylan, The Beatles and the Grateful Dead. In order to reconnect with his son, Henry Sawyer (played by J.K. Simmons) must put aside his musical snobbery and learn to see the beauty in his son’s chosen music.

Sarah’s Key – This historical drama is about a very shameful episode in French history. In 1942 thousands of French Jews were rounded up and had their property confiscated. When a present day investigative reporter discovers that her family home once belonged to a Vel’ d’Hiv victim she begins a search to find the original owners and discover their fate after World War II.

The Way – Written and directed by Emilio Estevez, The Way tells the story of a father (Martin Sheen) whose son dies while hiking the El Camino de Santiago. After going to Spain to collect his body and his effects, the father decides to finish the journey on his son’s behalf. This spiritual tale will really stick with you after the film is over. Don’t be surprised if you hear of me making the journey, I really want to go.

Mozart’s Sister – History is full of interesting facts and stories. Apparently Mozart had an older sister who was extremely talented and wanted to be a composer too. But because she was born female, her father disapproved and discouraged her. After befriending a royal princess, Nannerl Mozart is required to dress as a man to gain an audience with the Dauphine of France. Once she sees how easy it is to be mistaken for a man, she disguises herself again and attends music school.

The Beaver – A lot of people avoided this film because of the media backlash surrounding Mel Gibson. It is a shame because he delivers a very sensitive portrait of man battling depression. It is a strange film about a man who communicates through a hand puppet. It is sweet, disturbing, inspirational and sad. Only small budget films can afford to be this bold. It is strange and interesting movie.

A Dangerous Method

2011-12-27T18:34:00.000-08:00

After watching A Dangerous Method I hesitate to write a review because it may tell you more about me than the movie. This is the paranoia of the subject matter, our words and what they reveal about us. Sigmund Freud (Viggo Mortensen) considered the father of psychoanalysis, developed a form of therapy he called “the talking cure”. One of his followers, Carl Jung (Michael Fassbender) began practicing this method and soon began formalizing theories of his own. When he contacted Freud to ask further questions about his work the two became friends and developed a father-son type relationship. This film is about that relationship and their subsequent falling out.

The film begins when Carl Jung takes on a hysterical female patient by the name of Sabina Spielrein (Keira Knightly). Her psychosis is tied to her sexuality and Jung is anxious to apply the talking cure developed by Freud. The woman was a medical student and wants to be a doctor herself but her volatile and disturbing behavior landed her in an institution. Once she settles down, Jung takes her on as an assistant and her bright and questioning mind helps him advance his studies.

Once Jung develops a relationship with Freud, Freud sends him a colleague who has also been recently committed. The doctor, Otto Gross (Vincent Cassel) lost his practice because he kept sleeping with his patients and got several of them pregnant. While Jung was inside his mind, Gross was inside Jung’s. The ideas that were exchanged challenged Jung’s moral code and in a moment of weakness he had sex with Sabina. Jung wanted to challenge himself, and he experimented with the modern ideas of personal freedom but he could not escape his Protestant morals and views. This put him at odds with Freud who claimed his Jewish heritage, but did not practice the Jewish religion.

A Dangerous Method is an intellectual film about the exchange of ideas, sexual repression, and the truth of the subconscious. Freud wanted all psychological research to be kept purely scientific and Jung felt that religion, faith and the supernatural should not be ignored. He felt that our spiritual life was as important as our baser instincts and it was here that Freud and Jung diverged.

This film is brilliantly acted. Both Viggo Mortensen and Michael Fassbender are excellent. And Kiera Knightly plays her role fearlessly. But as good as the acting is, if you are not interested in the subject matter I think that the average person would be bored. I, myself, as the daughter of a psychology teacher found the film fascinating, but it is not easy to follow. It is a great conversation starter though and will make for some interesting debates among family and friends. This film is about two great minds who changed the way we see ourselves. If that interests you, you’ll love this film.

Rating: First Run A story about two great minds

War Horse

2011-12-20T11:11:00.000-08:00

War Horse is a story of love, more specifically a story about the love of horses. It begins when a young English boy witnesses the birth of a handsome, frisky, colt and later, through a miracle of stubborn pride and Irish whiskey, the boy’s father wins him at an auction. Impractical for farming, the father (Peter Mullan) immediately regrets his purchase as soon as he sobers up. But Albert (Jeremy Irvine) pleads for an opportunity to train the horse. With his mother’s support (Emily Watson) he convinces his father to let him try to make it work. And since Ted Narracott would like nothing better than to prove his landlord wrong, he consents to let Albert try.

Albert Narracott loves his new horse and names him affectionately, Joey. The two are inseparable and it is clear that Joey is a remarkable horse. When things on the farm are not doing well and the annual rent is due, Ted Narracott is short because he blew his money on the Thoroughbred. As a horse lover himself he recognized the brilliance of Joey, but more importantly he wanted to outbid his haughty landlord (David Thewlis) who is now loath to give an extension. It is only when Mrs. Narracott humbles herself and begs that the family is given extra time. Now, to pull his weight and give the family a chance of paying the rent, Joey is trained to pull a plow.

World War I is on the horizon and Joey’s heroic efforts behind the plow are not enough. It becomes apparent that desperate measures are called for and Ted sells the beloved horse. The army is in desperate need of mounts and Joey is purchased by a young officer. Albert is distraught, angry and beyond grief, but the young officer, a horse lover himself, promises to care for Joey and bring him back if he can. Albert knows that this is unlikely but he is too young to enlist himself. He vows to join as soon as he is of age, and he and Joey will be reunited again.

The film now diverges on two paths. One thread follows Joey through his series of guardians and the other follows Albert. He becomes a foot soldier and in the trenches of World War I, that is a dangerous occupation to be in. Both boy and horse will face challenges unimaginable as they try to endure and survive the war. It is only through love, friendship and the open hearts of strangers that either of them will survive.

War Horse is not always an easy film to follow as Joey’s fate is ever changing. The one constant is that wherever he goes there is a horse lover there that appreciates his magnificence. Through luck, drive and Albert’s brilliant training, Joey adapts wherever he is sent. But if it wasn’t for the horse lovers of the world who entered Joey’s life Joey would have been lost long ago.

As much as I liked War Horse I found it to be all over the place in terms of style. It was like watching a medley of old Hollywood movies all rolled up into one. Each segment of Joey’s life was like another famous film, we had Lassie Come Home, The Quiet Man, Black Beauty, Gone With the Wind, Heidi, and even Saving Private Ryan. Some parts of the film were very violent while others were almost Disneyesque. I could not recommend this film for young children. I even know some horse-loving adults that won’t be able to handle it.

War Horse is a beautiful film with sweeping settings and a compelling story, but it is also disturbing and tragic in parts. What I loved the most is how a red and white pennant became our beacon to lead us through it all. As Joey passes from one caretaker to another the pennant manages to get passed along too. Our journey is to follow both and learn what heroism really means. Albert is on his own path and he too will learn this lesson. Beautiful, gripping, ugly, heartfelt, brutal, inspiring, this film will take you through the gauntlet of emotions. What you receive in the end are some memorable images and conformation that war is not good for children or any living thing. A lesson we should have learned by now. But we also learn that even in the worst of times an act of kindness has far-reaching effects. Love and tenderness are never wasted acts and War Horse is a perfect reminder.

Rating: First Run A saga about love, war and horse

Young Adult

2011-12-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

Normally movies about mean spirited people doing selfish and despicable things are a total turn-off for me and I seldom enjoy them, but Young Adult is a complete exception. This movie is hysterical. Charlize Theron is phenomenal as Mavis Gary a beautiful blonde ex-prom queen who was a cheerleader in high school and dated the handsome football star Buddy Slade (Patrick Wilson). She was the only one in her class that made it out of Mercury, Minnesota and living in the “Mini-apple” of Minneapolis, her classmates who were left behind imagine her life as glamorous. But in reality Mavis is divorced, alcoholic and ghost writing the last book of a declining Young Adult series. Her life is a mess and she has become fixated with her ex-boyfriend and the new baby that he and his wife (Elizabeth Reaser) just had. Mavis wants a do-over and she is determined to get Buddy back. Never mind that he is married and happy. Mavis is clearly delusional.

Young Adult is about a woman who is living in the past and stuck in perpetual adolescence. We never see a flashback or have any insight into her youth other than what people say about her and their reaction when they meet her. Let’s just say that Mavis is controversial. When she arrives in town, the comments are varied. Mavis was envied, admired, but also disliked. Not everyone is happy to see her.

Mercury has grown since Mavis has gone away and her friends have grown up too. Repulsed by all the new chain motels, fast food restaurants and box stores, Mavis heads to a local dive where she runs into her old locker mate. In completely different social circles then they now find that they have a common bond, Bourbon and living in the past. With her new confidant Matt (Patton Oswalt) and a devious plan, Mavis heads out to break up a marriage and steal her old beau away.

The beauty about Young Adult is that the joke is on Mavis. It is like watching a child swat at the knees of a very tall man. None of her barbs or caustic remarks have any sting because the people she lashes out at don’t care. I love the writing in this film and the way the characters are presented. Diablo Cody has written another excellent script and director Jason Reitman has given it the right shade and tone. It seems like the perfect weapon for the mean girls of high school is contentment and personal satisfaction. If you like who you are the barbs will only sting for a moment. I really enjoyed this film.

Rating: First Run Never peak in high school

Sherlock Homes: A Game of Shadows

2011-12-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

Today I get to write something I seldom do. When it comes to the Sherlock Holmes sequel Sherlock Homes: A Game of Shadows it is as actually good and as much fun as the original. I loved it! Just like its predecessor, it hit the ground running and never let up. I really love the way that director Guy Ritchie uses his thugs and villains to add flavor and texture to the atmosphere. Every street, every setting has little details sprinkled in to give us the impression of the seedy side of London and its rouge’s gallery of criminals. And what great fun it is to discover that some of the lowliest characters are Sherlock Holmes in disguise.

Dr. Watson (Jude Law) is wrapping up his chronicle of Sherlock Holmes’ latest adventure (Robert Downey Jr.). It will be the last for Dr. Watson for he is settling down and getting married. Being Sherlock Holmes’ partner is a dangerous business and not an appropriate occupation for a married man. He is returning to medicine and Holmes is not taking it well. He is losing his best friend and companion and must now go it alone, but Dr. Moriarty (Jared Harris) has other plans. Even when Holmes begs to leave Watson out of it, Moriarty flatly refuses. Holmes must now protect Watson and his new bride. He also must convince Watson to help him on one last case. Until Moriarty is put away no one is safe. Even Holmes’ brother Mycroft (Stephen Fry) is at risk.

Holmes is obsessed with Dr. Moriarty and thwarting his master plan. But as yet Holmes has no idea what that is. He follows his web of clues which leads him to a Gypsy girl (Noomi Rapace). Somehow her brother is involved in a fiendish plot and Madame Simza and Holmes must find the connection. This journey takes them to the continent where danger and intrigue abound.

Everything that I loved about the first film is present in this worthy sequel. I love the fast driving pace, the wonderful Celtic score, the rapport between two bickering buddies and the insight into Holmes’ complicated mind. In this film we get to know Mycroft, Holmes’ brother, and he is as much of an eccentric as Holmes is. It is his mysterious job with the crown that provides Holmes and Watson access to many prestigious events. It is there that they uncover Dr. Moriarty’s sinister plot. From the underground den of robbers and thieves to the halls of academia and state events, Moriarty has his hand everywhere. It is up to Holmes and Watson to expose this evil opportunist. For Holmes it is a match of intellect and wit.

Sherlock Homes: A Game of Shadows is a delight and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. I especially appreciated all of Holmes’ disguises and his attempts at urban camouflage. I love the chemistry between Downey and Law and seriously hope they do a third film. Jared Harris as Moriarty makes a great foil for Holmes and I look forward to any new opponents that come along. Like others I can get nostalgic for the older interpretations of Sherlock Holmes but I enjoy Robert Downey Jr.’s version as well which is vigorous, energetic and alert. He can’t help himself, his intellect, senses and manic energy are a curse. He couldn’t restrain himself if he tried. I like this version and I like the contrast found in Watson. Watson is a man of science who wants to conform to genteel society but cannot leave his sense of adventure behind. He is fiercely loyal and the perfect partner to Holmes. I hope this “bromance” continues a very long time.

Rating: Must See There is adventure afoot

The Iron Lady

2011-12-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher is a triumph. In my egocentric youth, Margaret Thatcher was a name in the background of my life. I knew that she was the Prime Minister of England, a friend to Ronald Reagan, and I remember the Falkland war, but beyond that I never paid much attention. I was too busy finishing high school, going to college and starting my adult life. But after watching The Iron Lady I am embarrassed to say that I missed a very important chapter in women’s history. Margaret Thatcher not only accomplished great things as a woman, she accomplished great things as a leader, period!

Going into The Iron Lady, I knew very little about Margaret Thatcher. I’ve never been a big fan of politics, let alone politics outside of my own country, but I found Margaret Thatcher's story fascinating. You could not find a better actress to portray her than Meryl Streep, and the surprising co-star of this film was the make-up. Meryl Streep’s age make-up is the best I’ve seen in a very long time. Like any good supporting player it makes its point and never distracts from the performance. Throughout the entire film depicting various periods of time the make-up and costumes were flawless and deserve to be mentioned for their excellence.

Another strong supporting element in this film is Jim Broadbent as Denis Thatcher. He showed us a man of humor and wit who was able to accept Margaret on her own terms. He was also secure enough as a man to stand behind his wife as she rose through the ranks to become the first woman Prime Minister. It was clear through this performance how much she depended on him. Without his love and support she would have never been able to reach such heights. Also good are Alexandra Roach and Harry Lloyd as the young Margaret and Denis. In order to appreciate where this couple went you have to understand where they started.

As one who could easily be turned off by politics, let me assure you that this is a very exciting film. It is as much a love story as a historical review. Politically the seventies and the eighties were a very volatile time. Between union strikes, terrorist attacks, and a severe economic recession, Margaret Thatcher was on the front lines most of her life. She grew up a grocer’s daughter who encouraged her to think and pursue an education. When she entered civic life she was known for her strong opinions and shrill voice, but once her foot was in the door, eventually she started to be heard. Through her tenacity and determination, the boy’s club was finally able to get past her grating voice and feminine sex. They were able to see her strength and common sense. She alienated a lot of people, but had the courage to make the tough decisions. Along with her friend, U.S. President Ronald Reagan, she changed the world and led her country back into a position of strength. Hers is an exhilarating a story and Meryl Streep gives a sublime performance. This is a film and performance that should not be missed.

Rating: Must See Great lady, great performance

My Week With Marilyn

2011-12-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

Sir Laurence Olivier wanted to be a movie star and Marilyn Monroe wanted to be an actress. One represented the finest in British theatrical tradition and the other, a new kind of actor; raw, emotional and in the moment. Marilyn Monroe, a student of Lee Strassberg, was a Method actor and had none of the discipline and training of a theatrical actor. But when she got it right on film, there was no looking away. Marilyn Monroe on the screen was mesmerizing.

The movie My Week With Marilyn takes place just before Marilyn Monroe (Michelle Williams) had her big break out role in the film Some Like it Hot. Traveling with her new husband, celebrated playwright Arthur Miller, she is summoned to England to star opposite Sir Laurence Olivier (Kenneth Branagh) in The Prince and the Showgirl. The original stage production starred Olivier’s wife Vivien Leigh. But Vivien had grown too old for the role and Olivier wanted someone younger. He saw something in Marilyn while meeting her in the states and wanted very much to work with her. But all his experience, confidence and meticulous training was no match for Marilyn and her entourage.

When Olivier wasn’t being a bully or berating her for her lack of professional discipline, he was wallowing in jealousy over her natural instincts and her command of visual arts. Marilyn knew how to work the camera and she created “Marilyn” as her alter ego and screen persona. But underneath her bombshell image, Marilyn was a woman full of insecurity, fear and doubt. She was mess, but when she got it right she was perfection.

There have been many actresses who have played Marilyn Monroe for after all these years we still find her fascinating. But Michelle Williams’ portrayal is truly illuminating. There have been other women who have looked more like Marilyn, or sounded more like Marilyn, there have even been better mimics of her on-screen persona, but Michelle captures her essence and I don’t recall anyone doing a better job of balancing all the elements. Playing Marilyn is like playing someone with a multiple personality disorder. There are so many sides to the woman and Michelle captures her fear, insecurity and sense of rebellion. She also shows the anguish of a artist who wants to be taken seriously while at the same time being totally incapable of handling her interpersonal relationships. At one moment she can pose, flirt and manipulate the press and then shrink in terror at the enthusiasm of her fans. Watching Michelle Williams makes you wonder, was Marilyn a user or was she the one being used? Was she the most selfish person in the world, or a truly needy person seeking validation. Michelle Williams’ Marilyn is complex, multilayered and charismatic. Miss Williams has dug deep here and given us a memorable performance. I don’t ever recall a Marilyn that has effected me so deeply.

As the title My Week With Marilyn suggests, there is another character in this film. The my in the title refers to Colin Clark portrayed by Eddie Redmayne. This film is a true story based on the diaries of Colin Clark. Colin Clark was a young British film enthusiast who landed his first job in the industry as Sir Laurence Olivier’s third assistant director, which is basically a “go-for”. In his role he showed initiative, drive and tenacity, but he was also a keen observer. It is this quality that attracted Marilyn Monroe. As an assistant he saw all sides and Marilyn was counting on him for his insights and honesty. When Arthur Miller (Dougray Scott) tires of Marilyn’s media circus and returns to the states prematurely, Marilyn latches onto Colin like a life-preserver. Jealousies erupt and Colin’s duties and motives are questioned, but as someone able to see all sides, Colin becomes a real friend, even if it costs him his relationship with a young costumer played by Emma Watson.

Kenneth Branagh plays Olivier as a man trying to regain his youth and achieve the status and recognition that he feels he deserves. Also in the film is Judi Dench as Dame Sybil Thorndike. She is gracious and supportive of Marilyn even when Marilyn’s poor behavior effects her directly.She reminds Olivier that their way is on the wane and that this new breed of actor is the future. She is wise in many ways and Marilyn appreciates her understanding and support.

There have been many movies featuring Marilyn Monroe reflecting different times and parts of her life. But what I liked the most about this film is that it zeros in on that time right before she makes it big. The Prince and the Showgirl was not a huge hit but it set Marilyn up for her next film which made her a big star. At this juncture we see the actress before she comes into her own, while she is still trying to figure things out and Michelle Williams provides us with that glimpse. She shows us a woman on the verge of greatness; both Marilyn’s and her own.

Rating: First Run An actress on the verge of greatness

Hugo

2011-11-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

Hugo is a metamorphosis of a film transforming from a story of a lonely orphan boy into a tribute to one of cinema’s first filmmakers, Georges Melies. From the opening shot you know that you are in a magical place and if you are patient and watch closely, something wonderful and amazing will happen. Hugo, played by Asa Butterfield, is an intelligent boy who lives in the Paris train station. When his father died, he was taken in by his loutish, alcoholic uncle (Ray Winstone) who worked in the station as a technician winding all the intricate clocks. He taught Hugo how to do his job so he could lie around all day and drink. He also furnished him with a long forgotten apartment within the station’s attic. Here Hugo could stay out of sight and management would be none the wiser.

Throughout his day Hugo would navigate the ceilings, walls and tunnels of the railway station watching the regulars and getting to know their routines. In secret he became familiar with all of them especially the station inspector (Sasha Baron Cohen). The inspector has a penchant for rounding up orphans and sending them directly to the workhouse. Hugo avoids the inspector at all costs and only enters the public when necessary. At night, when alone, he works on an automaton that he and his father were restoring before his death. The robot was discovered forgotten in a museum storeroom and Hugo and his father were repairing him.

When Hugo’s uncle suddenly disappears, Hugo must start taking more and more risks by venturing into the station. By winding the clocks, everyone will assume that the technician is still on the job, but in order to survive Hugo starts stealing food and supplies. He also zeros in on a local toy maker and begins to steal parts for his automaton. The meticulous toy maker is on to him though and lays a trap to apprehend him. This is where the film morphs into another kind of story and both are equally fascinating.

Ben Kingsley plays the filmmaker Georges Melies and Chloe Grace Moretz portrays Isabelle, Melies’ young charge. When Hugo becomes upset over the loss of his father’s notebook, Isabelle becomes his ally and the two entreat Melies to give it back. The discovery of who Melies is and what he has done drives the remainder of the film. And as a cinema lover, I for one was enchanted. Not only do we get to share in the ecstasy of watching Isabelle’s face view her first film we also get to see the bittersweet moment when Mamma Jeanne (Helen McCrory) sees herself on the screen after years of believing their films were lost. Both of these moments spoke directly to me. I really love this film.

As a family entertainment some people may say that this movie is too long, complicated or slow, but I disagree. Not that it’s long or slow, but I disagree that that’s a bad thing. This film will defiantly enchant young viewers and it will educate them as well. They may get a little squirmy and lose focus now and then but the film will soon recapture them. As a lover of cinema and to illustrate Melies’ genius Martin Sorcsese incorporates many clips from his films. Adults and children as well will be amazed by the whimsical special effects that he created. Melies was an innovator and a pioneer and this movie is a tribute to his contribution. Let his magic capture your heart. Hugo is very special film.

Rating: Must See A film about love and cinema

Arthur Christmas

2011-11-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

Do you spend much time thinking about Santa Claus? Like how does he deliver all those presents in one night and why with all our modern technology he seems to fly under the radar? Have you ever wondered why we can’t see him on Google Earth and how does he support all those elves and reindeer? Well it is obvious that the people at Aardman Animation and Sony Pictures have thought about this, a lot! They have created a wonderful film that is so detailed, intricate and full of explanation without destroying any of the fun, myth or joy of the season.

Arthur Christmas is funny, entertaining and full of holiday spirit without being cloying, sentimental or trite. There are no talking animals, no musical numbers out of nowhere and no cheap juvenile humor. What we get is a magical world, fully realized and a three generational Claus family that is as dysfunctional as yours and mine.

Arthur Christmas (James McAvoy) is the youngest son of the reigning Santa (Jim Broadbent). He is a bit of a klutz, and kind of a mess, but he is so full of Christmas spirit and he truly idolizes his father. His older brother, Steve (Hugh Laurie) is the operations commander and he is expert and efficient at his job. On his seventieth mission, Santa has become little more than a figurehead and Steve really runs the show. But he is a good loyal son, protects his father and is waiting patiently to inherit the title. Meanwhile Arthur, his little brother, works away in the letters office.

Due to a technical error and being distracted by a Santa emergency, a little girl’s bicycle falls off the conveyor belt and she becomes the only child in the entire world without a Christmas present to open. Steve is upset for being blamed and having his promotion postponed by his father. Santa is clearly not able to complete the task; he doesn’t even know how to pilot the high-tech sleigh. So they both decide to let it go and rest on their near-perfect record. But, Arthur is appalled. In his mind every child deserves a Christmas, so with the help of his grandfather (Bill Nighy) and a diligent elf (Ashley Jensen) they go “old school”, hitch up Grandsanta’s sleigh and vow to deliver Gwen’s present before sunrise.

This movie is so well thought out and so visually rich that you won’t mind watching it again and again. It is sure to be a perennial favorite and it is the kind of movie that everyone will love. It is clever, adventurous and makes a statement about family and technology. No matter how advanced we get there is nothing like coming together over a good meal or a board game. Sometimes it’s good to go back to the basics. And this film would make an great family night out.

Rating: First Run Santa, all secrets revealed

Dolphin Tale

2011-11-28T18:39:00.000-08:00

There has been a trend recently to make films that feature animals or ecological issues. Most are low budget and have a very short theatrical run. But Dolphin Tale, directed by Charles Martin Smith is better than most and contains an excellent cast consisting of Ashley Judd, Harry Connick Jr., Kris Kristofferson and Morgan Freeman.

Based on an actual event, Dolphin Tale focuses on a boy named Sawyer Nelson (Nathan Gamble) and his relationship with a dolphin (Winter playing herself) who washed up on the beach with severe injuries. Sawyer cuts her loose from a crab trap and they quickly form a bond. But before Sawyer knows it the dolphin is being packed up and transported to a rescue and rehabilitation facility where she loses her tail due to an infection.

Sawyer, wanting to know her fate, begins cutting summer school to spend time with her at the facility. When his mother (Ashley Judd) finds out she is hopping mad. But after visiting the rescue center herself she sees how invested Sawyer is and how much he is learning in the process. She agrees to let him stay knowing that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

After Winter recovers and Sawyer becomes best friends with Hazel (Cozi Zuehlsdorff), the doctor’s daughter, the two of them spend their time entertaining Winter and helping her to get stronger. But a new problem occurs. Dolphins are meant to swim with an up and down tail movement and Winter has adapted by propelling herself side to side. This is causing spinal cord issues and endangering her life. When Sawyer goes to a V.A. hospital to visit his wounded cousin, he marvels over all the prosthetics he sees and their wide range of variety. He introduces himself to one of the designers and asks if he’d ever considered designing a prosthetic for a dolphin. The doctor (Morgan Freeman) is intrigued by the challenge and agrees to give it a try. Meanwhile, Dr. Clay (Harry Connick Jr.) is tasked with funding the project while still trying to keep his center from going under.

Dolphin Tale is essentially a movie about overcoming challenges and never giving up. Not a bad subject for a film to take the kiddies. It is not overly-maudlin and it is enjoyable even for adults. And the setting reminds me of my youth watching Flipper. I’ve always had a thing for dolphins and this film only reinforces that. Winter does a great job portraying herself and you can easily see how she has become a media star. The film does get a little sentimental but due to the fine cast and the light touch of the director it is not overdone. Dolphin Tale is an excellent family film and a palatable way to get a message across; don’t give up, find a way, and never let your disability define
you.

Rating: First Run A message film that entertains

Immortals

2011-11-25T19:53:00.000-08:00

In order to discuss the film Immortals you must talk about the visuals. In fact it is impossible to talk about this film without mentioning them. As I was sitting there watching, it reminded me of being in a museum gazing at Renaissance art. I’ve had this experience before, sitting on a bench, staring at a religious scene or a setting of Greek mythology and being transfixed by the beauty. The art is so detailed and complex and the colors are vivid and striking. You get lost in the vision and are given a sense that there is more there than meets the eye. There is a magnificence and grandeur to everything you see. That is how I felt watching this film.

As far as the plot goes, it is very simplistic; a classic tale. King Hyperion (Mickey Rourke) is trying to destroy humanity by acquiring the mythic Epirus Bow which is the only means available to release the Titans, warriors enslaved by the gods and entombed in the mountain Tartaros. The gods are forbidden to interfere, but Zeus (Luke Evans) has been secretly tutoring a peasant boy into manhood. He has placed all his hopes in this young man (Henry Cavill) and believes that Theseus will rise to the occasion. Only a mortal with strength and conviction can stand up to the evil King Hyperion. But Theseus is only interested in protecting his shunned and persecuted mother. As a son with no father, he is loyal only to his own.

When King Hyperion attacks their village and murders all the remnants left behind. Theseus must witness the death of his mother and is taken prisoner after a valiant fight. Here is where he meets the oracle Phaedra (Frieda Pinto) and the thief Stravos (Stephen Dorff) his new fighting companion. Together they escape and look for ways to foil the king’s despicable plan. Theseus assumes his leadership role and the gods, defying their father, help them along.

Mickey Rourke is quite intimidating as King Hyperion. He is so menacing that anyone would want to stay out of his way. But I do believe that he overdid it with the eating. In his first scene he is devouring some kind of fruit in a masculine brutal manner with red juice and pulp dripping from his hands and beard. It is quite effective and conjures up imagines of blood or an animal feasting on his prey. But by the time you get to his third or fourth eating scene you say to yourself, okay, this guy is just a pig. When I start wondering what he is eating instead of what is going on in the scene then you know that the device is overdone.

Frieda Pinto is radiant in this film and I felt that her tone was just right. She is supposed to be a virgin and has been protected all her life for her prophetic gifts, but she also has a little fight in her. Esthetically she belongs in these gorgeous settings. She is like a princess with warrior DNA. Henry Cavill is also nice to look at with his strong features and muscular body. I only wish that he had a voice to match. Voices like Charleton Heston’s are rare. You can see why he was so successful in these kinds of films. The voice is a big part of the package.

When it comes to the fight scenes there are a lot of special effects in the mix. Those familiar with 300, Suckerpunch, or other films of that ilk will recognized the distortion of time and how certain characters are separated, featured or highlighted for effect. It is kind of like a pop-up book where the director manipulates your gaze. It is all done for impact and esthetics and somehow it makes violence beautiful. As I said before, this is a very visual film and without the techniques employed by director Tarsem Singh this movie would fall flat. As directed it is a splendid mythic tale of gods and men; brave, beautiful, brutal, and fierce. It is good against evil both in heaven and on earth. Like the tales of old, virtue triumphs and evil must be put down.

Rating: First Run A film that deserves the big screen

J. Edgar

2011-11-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

No matter how controversial the man was, there is no question that J. Edgar Hoover accomplished a mighty thing. As the founding director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation he was one of the most powerful men in the country and ran the bureau for over 37 years. He created a centralized record keeping system, pioneered forensics, and developed relationships with leading law enforcement agencies across the states. He also made it cool to be a G-Man helping to quash the romantic image of the mobster and placing the most famous of them into prison.

J. Edgar, as directed by Clint Eastwood, depicts Mr. Hoover warts and all. Portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio he is shown as a man with tremendous skills for organization and leadership, but with a lot of personal issues and insecurities. I’m sure that the intent was to give a full well-rounded portrait, but in my opinion some of these so-called ascertainable facts are unproven. It is difficult or impossible to know what goes on behind closed doors. It may be fun to speculate, but it is also unfair.

As someone who loves history and who is a big fan of bio-pics, I did enjoy the film. But I also noticed that the audience around me thought it was very slow. I don’t mind slow if it’s interesting but I do agree that the film could have been tighter. Leonardo’s performance is very good and Armie Hamer is also excellent as Clyde Tolson, J. Edgar’s right hand man. Naomi Watts is equally good as the faithful Helen Gandy. She knew where all the bodies were buried and still remained loyal until his death. That says something about both of them.

In order to tell the story, the narrative jumps back and forth from the past to the present. The present being the time that J. Edgar Hoover begins his memoirs. When caught up we then move forward to his death and the end of era. Looking back over his life he accomplished many things. But people like to emphasize the more controversial parts. We seem to live in a time of backlash. Our heroes have let us down so often that we now feel it is necessary to grind them under our feet.

J.Edgar kept many secrets in his life and protected many others from public shame. He was hated and feared by the most famous and powerful because he catalogued their sins and wasn’t above using the information. Now the spotlight is on him and it will be interesting to see how he is viewed in a hundred years from now. The facts will remain the same, but how we view them is subjective. I’m sure that J. Edgar would prefer that the facts speak for themselves. He was a man of vision who loved his country and used every tool at his disposal to protect it. It will be up to history to decide if he went too far. In the meantime he’s left us the F.B.I. a crime fighting legacy to be proud of.

Rating: Bargain Matinee J. Edgar warts and all

The Descendants

2011-11-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

The Descendants is a film about hanging on and letting go. George Clooney plays Matt King, a lawyer who is the sole trustee of the King family estate who inherited a large parcel of virgin Hawaiian land from their Royal Hawaiian ancestor. A direct descendant of King Kamehameha, their great, great grandmother married her white banker and the land she inherited has been handed down for generations. Due to some legal issues the King family will be losing their land rights in seven years, so they have agreed to sell. Matt, as trustee, will make the final decision, but a sale of this magnitude will make his entire family rich. He has a very big decision on his hands.

At home, Matt’s life is falling apart. His wife is in a coma after a boating accident and his two daughters are acting out. He was always the back-up parent but with his wife in the hospital he must now step up. He yanks his oldest daughter out of boarding school (Shailene Woodley) while he goes around town apologizing for his youngest daughter’s behavior (Amara Miller). Scottie is being disruptive at school, breaking things at home, and sending inappropriate texts to her friends. Every phone call sends a shiver up his spine, what has Scotty done next?

As grim as this subject matter sounds, The Descendants is full of humor. As humans we can be quite ridiculous as we try to control things that are completely out of our hands. George Clooney plays a man who is in way over his head. And as life keeps piling it on he displays a classic comic pathos. Like a silent comedian of days gone by we feel for him but can’t help but giggle at his efforts. In a Shakespearean play he would be called a cuckold and he is desperately trying to regain some dignity.

There are a lot of fine performances in this film. Shailene Woodley is outstanding as Alexandra King who journeys from a rebellious teenage daughter to a surrogate mother for her younger sister. She puts her dad through all the paces but through a moment of new-found maturity she finally realizes that he is doing the best he can. For moral support she brings along a friend (Nick Krause) who is dumb looking surfer type. Matt can’t stand the kid and hates having a witness to the worst time in his life but it’s clear that his daughter is in charge. Matt is on the verge of rolling up into a fetal position. Also excellent is Amara Miller as Scottie King, the youngest. She has been protected due to her age but her instincts have been telling her that something is wrong. Unable to express her fears and concerns she has been acting out in violent ways. Poor Matt really has his hands full.

In addition to our leads Robert Forster packs a punch in his small role as Matt’s father-in-law. Beau Bridges makes a poignant appearance as one of the King cousins, and Judy Greer makes an impact as a betrayed wife whose husband (Matthew Lillard) is cheating on her. Every character is integral to the film and reinforces the theme; how do you know when to hang on, or let go? Whether it is property, a marriage, a child, or the image of a loved one, life is constantly evolving. We either hang on for dear life or jump off the surfboard. The trick is not getting hit in the head.

Rating: First Run There's trouble in paradise

Young Goethe in Love

2011-11-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

The arts owe a tremendous debt to unreasonable fathers. Throughout history there are legions of young men forced into to unwanted careers, only to rebel or fail miserably before finding their true calling in literature, art, music, or science. In the case of polymath Johann Goethe his father sent him to Wetzlar to be a law clerk after botching his final exams in school. Here he met Charlotte Buff, became part of a love triangle and the result was The Sorrows of Young Werther, a book that made Johann Goethe instantly famous.

Young Goethe in Love is an absorbing film that reenacts the events leading to Goethe’s famous work. It perfectly captures the angst of a son trying to be obedient, while at the same time being lured away by the things he values most, beauty, music, art and poetry. Alexander Fehling is lovely as the sensitive Goethe. He displays an exuberance that is delightful to watch and he will break your heart when his life turns tragic. His muse, played by Miriam Stein is a fresh faced young lady that exhibits a sense a fun as well as a strong sense of duty. Watching her struggle between her own desires and the love of her family is heart wrenching. These actors together make the film.

In addition to capturing the beginning of the Weimer Classicism movement, Young Goethe in Love presents to us the essence of a young man facing the world away from family ties. It also illustrates the passions and emotional complexity of a budding intellect. The costumes and art direction transport you to that time, yet the performances allow you to make contemporary associations. It is easy to relate to this talented young man who grew up influencing a generation in a variety of disciplines. Goethe was a genius and if it wasn’t for a driving father he may have never reached his full potential.

Rating: First Run Let’s hear it for pushy fathers

Tower Heist

2011-11-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

What I love the most about Ben Stiller is his commitment. No matter how bizarre the concept is, he commits fully and lets the comedy speak for itself. He also favors actors who can do comedy instead of casting comedians who act. For this reason his films are consistently good and Tower Heist is no exception.

Tower Heist is a heist film with brilliant touches of comedy. But for the most part it is a satisfying action film. Alan Alda plays Arthur Shaw, an investment broker who occupies the penthouse in the richest, most luxurious apartment building in Manhattan. When he is arrested for defrauding his investors and placed under house arrest until his trial. The staff and crew must now serve the man who lost them their life savings. When Josh (Ben Stiller) is fired as the building manager for confronting Arthur Shaw on behalf of his employees he seeks out a neighborhood thug (Eddie Murphy) and enlists his help to steal their money back. As manager, Josh knows every detail there is about the tower and everyone’s schedules and secrets. With his knowledge and a little help, they can settle the score and get back everyone’s savings.

To help him with this heist, Josh brings in an ex-tenet, Mr. Fitzhugh (Matthew Boderick) a former Wallstreet investor, his concierge brother-in-law Charlie (Casey Affleck) and Enrique (Michael Pena) a new employee who is especially resourceful. With the tutelage of Slide (Murphy) and a safe-cracking maid Gabourey Sidibe, the team makes a plan to break in to the tower’s penthouse during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Just like any heist film there has to be a cop with a watchful eye and in this case Tea Leoni fits the bill as F.B.I agent Claire Denham. She becomes impressed with Josh when she views some security footage of him telling Arthur Shaw off and taking a golf club to one of his collectibles. But enamored as she is by Josh, she is the by the book type until you get some drinks in to her. Tea Leoni is especially funny sharing a conciliatory cocktail with Josh after he gets fired. They form a bond and Josh uses the information she leaks to his advantage.

I really enjoyed Tower Heist. I thought that the tone was consistent throughout and the action sequences were thrilling and suspenseful. The acting was top notch and the comedy came from the characters and not from any cheap bits or lines. This is a smart comedy, well executed with some original stunts that you’ll be sure to remember. Eddie Murphy is at his comedic best and Ben Stiller shows us glimpses of a real action star. Tower Heist is fun, exciting and family friendly. Everyone can enjoy this one.

Rating: First Run An action-comedy for the whole family

Oranges and Sunshine

2011-11-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

In the 1950’s and ‘60’s, 130,000 unescorted children entrusted to the British government were deported to Australia and put in work homes. Told that they were orphans and promised with oranges and sunshine these children grew up in various institutions believing that they were alone in the world and without family. When one such child grew to adulthood she used her savings to fly to Nottingham, England in search of her identity and origin. Shipped out at age four, Nottingham is all she can remember of her former life.

Out of money and flying home the next day she crashes a support group meeting and tells her story to a social worker named Margaret Humphreys (Emily Watson). Margaret finds her story incredulous and the woman is offended that Margaret disbelieves her. She shoves her research into Margaret’s hand and returns home to Australia.Unable to sleep that night Margaret begins to read the file and subsequently does some digging. Not only is the woman’s story true, her mother was still alive. Margaret is shocked and appalled. With the blessing of her husband she flies to Australia and discovers many others with similar stories. Margaret has now become a crusader.

Oranges and Sunshine tells the story of Margaret Humphreys and her tireless effort to give these people closure. Dividing her time between England and Australia, she collected stories, interviewed people and shined unwanted media attention on the institutions involved. Hugo Weaving gives a haunting performance as Jack, a man who could never get past his sense of abandonment. And David Lenham portrays Len, an abrasive, arrogant, unapologetic survivor with a chip on his shoulder. They become Margaret’s allies and help her to help others.

Oranges and Sunshine is a melancholy tale that will touch your emotional core. It is even sadder because it is true. Hopefully this film will continue to bring attention to the plight of the “home children” and the work of The Child Migrant’s Trust. Britain has made a formal apology to these children but there is still a lot of work to do. This is a timely, moving story that needed to be told, and a beautiful film.

Rating: First Run A story that needed told

Anonymous

2011-10-28T23:14:00.000-07:00

There is power in words and Anonymous proves that the pen is as mighty as the sword. For centuries learned men have applied ink to paper to either question, support, or refute the authorship of Shakespeare’s plays. There are many theories on who wrote these celebrated works from Ben Johnson, Christopher Marlowe to Edward de Vere the Earl of Oxford, but instead of a dry academic debate Roland Emmerich has given us an exciting politic intrigue full of machinations, betrayals, and Royal incest.

Anonymous is based on the theory that William Shakespeare was a buffoon and frontman for the true author of his plays Edward de Vere (Rhys Ifans) the Earl of Oxford. Edward de Vere was a Renaissance man who had his talents suppressed when he was obliged to bow to the authority of William Cecil, the Puritan advisor of Queen Elizabeth. He wrote his plays in secret to give voice to his artistic angst, but when public theatre became popular he saw it as a way to influence the masses. In the theatre one voice can reach, influence and impress many minds. He saw an opportunity to sway public opinion and he took it.

Whether you agree or disagree with the theory presented, Anonymous is rich, pleasing, stimulating and thoroughly entertaining. The art direction is fabulous, the sets and costumes are meticulously detailed and lush and Vanessa Redgrave gives an enlightening portrayal of Queen Elizabeth that reminds us of what an exciting actress she has always been. Rhys Ifans proves himself to be completely underrated as an actor. To compare this performance with his role in Notting Hill will blow your mind and showcase the man’s versatility. And David Thewlis, hiding under all that make-up, illustrates a talent that is undeniable. In fact this film is full of young British actors who display that the next generation is in very good hands. Rafe Spall is delightful as William Shakespeare and Edward Hogg is fascinating as Robert Cecil. This film is full of note-worthy performances.

I, like many people, struggled with Shakespeare in school because I couldn’t relate to the language or the time. But please don’t let the subject matter keep you away. This is an exciting film full of humor, action, and deceitful manipulations. It is as juicy as any soap opera, tele nova, or drama today. In fact, Shakespeare was the most popular writer of his time. He wrote for the groundlings as well as the nobles and his plays resonate on many levels. Anonymous is one of those rare films that leave you wanting more and it may even drive you back to the library to read his plays. There is a reason that Shakespeare's works have survived the ages. Everyone loves a good story and this is a good one.

Rating: First Run Drama abounds

The Mighty Macs

2011-10-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

It is amazing to me when I meet young women athletes who have no idea that a mere 40 years ago their right to play organized sports did not exist. They may also be surprised to learn that the first Women’s College Basketball Tournament did not occur until 1972. The Mighty Macs tells the unlikely story of Coach Cathy Rush who led a dedicated team of girls to three consecutive championships. What is even more surprising is that the team came from a small Catholic College who was competing with larger, better funded universities.

Carla Gugino portrays Cathy Rush who was the lead scorer on her high school basketball team before it was disbanded her senior year for lack of funds. Before 1972’s Title IX law, women’s sports were considered a luxury and easily disposed of. In college Cathy struggled under the leadership of her head coach but never lost the love of the game even going so far as to marry a NBA referee (David Boreanez). Not satisfied being a housewife, especially with her husband on the road all the time, Cathy applied for a coaching position at Immaculata College. Without a gym, locker room or proper equipment she willed her team into shape with an amazing 6 appearances in the final four, 3 wins and an overall record of 149-15 during her six year coaching career.

As a movie, The Mighty Macs is missing some of the highs and lows of other sports films. None of the girls get pregnant, expelled or injured on the way to victory. This story avoids all those clichés. But that doesn’t mean that there weren’t any challenges. The obstacles were social and financial ones. Not only did Coach Rush have to find travel money to support her team through their championship season she also had to convince the faculty and community that women playing sports was worthwhile.

The Mighty Macs is the first film for a small Pennsylvanian production company called Quaker Media. Writer, director and producer Tim Chambers may have chosen the subject for its local resonance but really it is a universal story. Like many films before it The Mighty Macs is about teamwork, vision, breaking barriers and self-worth. The film captures the time when women had few choices and only the strongest were able to break out of their pre-determined roles.

As a piece of entertainment I found the film a little mild and predictable, but as a subject matter it should be required viewing. It is also one of those films that are very family friendly, especially for a mother and daughter. Carla Gugino did a fine job as Coach Rush, but David Boreanez didn’t have much of a part to sink his teeth into; he was mostly in the background pouting because his wife was always busy with her team. Ellen Burstyn was very convincing as Mother Superior, but my favorite character in the film was Sister Sunday played by Marley Shelton. She is a fourth year novice questioning the spiritual value and satisfaction of doing admissions paperwork for the school. It isn’t until the basketball team comes along that she finds her passion again.

There are spiritual elements in this film but this movie is not about religion. It is about faith of a different kind. Coach Rush had some buttons made up for her team that read “We will be #1”. As an act of solidarity the team pinned the badges out of view on their uniforms until they had the right to wear them outside. Soon the nuns was wearing the buttons as well and then eventually the town. Cathy Rush is painted as a motivator, innovator and an inspiration for women everywhere. She was an inductee in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008 and this film honors her achievements. I have to admit that I was unfamiliar with Cathy Rush and that is why I like these kind of films. Any time we can celebrate, acknowledge and highlight a person of excellence it is worth our while. For that reason I recommend this film.

Rating: Bargain Matinee A great film for mom and daughter

50/50

2011-10-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

“Mom, do you remember that movie Terms of Endearment?” These words are directed by Adam to his mother sitting across form him at the dinner table. Next to her is his father, a Alzheimer's victim, who is completely oblivious to what is going on. His girlfriend Rachel, sitting on his left, shoots him a warning glance. “Just tell her”, She pleads, "Just say it!" But there is no easy way. Adam must tell his parents that he has cancer.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt is Adam and the movie 50/50 is based on the true-life experience of his co-star Seth Rogen. Seth Rogen as Kyle is essentially playing a version of himself. He and his best faced a cancer scare together and once in recovery they decided to write about it. Their goal was to take an honest, yet humorous look at managing cancer and how it impacts the people around you.

In 50/50, Bryce Dallas Howard plays Adam’s girlfriend and in the beginning she appears to be the perfect caregiver, but battling cancer is a stressful task and soon Rachel is displaying the chinks in her armor. Anjelica Huston portrays Diane, Adam’s mother and she is offended that Adam has not come to her for help. She lives to care for others and is already adept at caring for her husband. All she wants is to mother her little boy, but Adam is just trying to live a normal life.

As part of his treatment Adam is sent to a therapist (Anna Kendrick) as he undergoes chemotherapy. Katherine is young, inexperienced and full of rookie mistakes. But she genially cares for Adam and allows him to see how others care for him as well. As Adam struggles to hang onto life he learns what matters most and who he can really count on. 50/50 is frank, the antithesis of maudlin and at times very funny. Seth Rogen is in rare form and Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers an honest, unsentimental portrait. This is no Terms of Endearment, nor is it Brian’s Song. This is a cancer movie written by guys for guys, so leave your hankies at home.

Rating: First Run A cancer movie for the guys

Take Shelter

2011-10-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Watching Take Shelter I was transfixed to the screen from beginning to the end. Like a storm in the distance I felt the pressure build, the tingling of electricity and the dread of something coming. Something big, oppressive and life changing. Such is the state of Curtis played by Michael Shannon, a loving father, husband and hard working man who has been plagued with nightmares and hallucinations. Having his mother taken from him at age ten and committed for schizophrenia, Curtis fears that he may be following in her footsteps. But what if a storm really is coming and what if he is right? He must protect his family and prepare.

Unsure if what he is seeing is prophetic or the first signs of mental illness Curtis starts expanding their storm shelter at home. Meanwhile as the dreams and visions increase, Curtis begins having trouble concealing his anxiety. Afraid that he is going nuts he hides his motives from his family. But something is clearly bothering him. His friends notice, his wife is concerned and everyone asks, “Are you alright?”

Michael Shannon gives such a fascinating performance that I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. Paired with Jessica Chastain as his wife the two of them give us a loving couple that are not immune to marriage difficulties, but strong enough to stand up against them. Their daughter is deaf and while they struggle with doctors, financial problems and learning how to communicate with their little girl, Samantha is still paying attention and sees that something is going on.

Set in Ohio with a cast of naturalistic actors, this film recreates the experience of small town gossip. Have you heard about Curtis? What’s going on with him? Have you seen what he’s doing? The film is so intimate that you feel like part of the community. The movie has the atmosphere of a horror movie, but keeps you guessing like a mystery. I’ve never looked so forward to the conclusion of a movie while still not wanting it to end. I was loving the mood, shape and color that gave a tactual sense to this story while savoring the superior acting at the same time. Kathy Baker has a wonderful scene as Curtis’ mom unable to reassure her son. She wants to tell him he’ll be alright but she just doesn’t know. And that is the beauty of this film, is he crazy or not?

It has been a while since I have been so captivated by a movie. I believe it is excellent on so many levels. If Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastian are not remembered at awards time I’ll be very disappointed. In addition Jeff Nichols is now on my radar. As the writer and director of this film he shows much skill. I look forward to seeing what this young filmmaker does next.

Rating: Must See An electric experience

Straw Dogs

2011-09-22T23:23:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons to do a remake, but when one does it is more satisfying when the film is given a fresh take. In Straw Dogs (2011) the film has been moved to the American South instead of a small remote English village. And in contrast to Dustin Hoffman’s mathematician the main character is now a screen writer played by James Marsden. His wife (Kate Bosworth) grew up in this backwater town and to quote her ex-lover Charlie she’s had the bus schedule memorized since she was fifteen.

David Sumner (Marsden) never questions why his television star wife wasn’t keen to move back to her hometown. All he knows is that her childhood home has been left to them and it would provide a remote, quiet place for him to finish his latest historical film. At first Amy Sumner is a big celebrity returning home. Everyone wishes her well, welcomes her back and offers condolences on the cancelation of her series. But it is only a matter of time before her husband sees who the real town celebrities are, the ex-winning football coach (James Woods) who is now a drunk and his star team who is still reaping the glory of their championship season.

In the south, football rules and Amy was a cheerleader and Charlie (Alexander Skarsgard) was the quarterback. All these years he’s never forgotten about her but she has found a different kind of man to warm her bed. She loves her husband very much, but in this culture he is not considered much of a man. His khaki pants, oxford shirts and shoes without laces are a source of amusement to the men. For them if you don’t drink, hunt, and play football you might as well be wearing a dress.

Without consulting his wife, David hires her ex-boyfriend to fix their roof but he’s so wrapped up in his book research that he’s not aware of the signs. His wife is distressed and there is obviously some history going on other than the book that David is writing. Charlie is clearly lusting after Amy and his crew is equally disrespectful. When Amy asks David to defend her honor he demurely plays it off. Amy is mad because David just doesn’t get it. In this culture you need to protect what is yours.

David’s apparently weak nature and non-confrontational ways lead him into a tragic mistake. When this mistake escalates to disaster, we find what kind of man David truly is. Straw Dogs examines the definition of manliness, and the dynamic between husbands and wives. Things have changed a lot since the first film in 1971 but these are issues still worth examining.

It was really nice to see James Marsden given an opportunity to exercise his dramatic chops. It was also satisfying to see James Woods in an unlikable character role. I was also impressed with Alexander Skarsgard. His performance is multi-layered which keeps him from playing a stereotypical role. I like the change of setting for this film. I think the south was a good choice and added a lot of interesting elements. If you are going to do a remake, make it fresh. I believe that Straw Dogs has met that goal.

Rating: First Run A fresh look on what it means to be a man

Drive

2011-09-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

Drive is a visceral treat where lighting, pace and sound combine to place you into the head of a Hollywood stunt driver. We know nothing of this man (Ryan Gosling) except for the fact that he showed up one day at the auto shop of a man named Shannon (Bryan Cranston) and asked for a job. Shannon has been exploiting him ever since. Not only is “Driver” a good mechanic but he’s an excellent driver as well. Shannon has a side business providing cars for motion pictures and his protégé fits right in. He’s game for anything and executes his stunts with precision, skill and fearlessness. Shannon, naturally, takes a cut on all his jobs.

Driver lives a lean existence in a high rise apartment overlooking the city of Los Angeles. Not much of a sleeper he will often roam the city at night with only his music for company. Without explanation we learn that he is sometimes a wheelman for petty criminals and thieves. He has a meticulous process and a code and always calls his own shots. He is very good at what he does and he has no intention of getting caught. The man is unflappable and has nerves of steel.

Down the hall from him lives a pretty woman (Carey Mulligan) who is raising her son alone because her husband is away in prison. They begin a chaste relationship but there is an obvious affection there. He helps her out with a car problem and becomes attached to her son. He soon becomes very protective of them and enjoys their company. It is the first time we ever see him smile or open up.

When Irene’s husband is released from prison the driver steps out of the picture and respects the husbands place. Even the husband, no matter what his suspicions, can see that he is an honorable man. He is happy that someone was looking out for his wife and kid no matter what the attraction. But unfortunately Standard (Oscar Isaac) brings home a lot of baggage with him from prison. He is being pressured to perform a robbery in order to pay off a prison debt. To protect Irene and Benicio from further threats the driver offers to help him pay off his obligation to get keep Benicio and Irene safe. He becomes a wheelman for a robbery one more time.

This film is so stylish and Gosling is the epitome of cool. I could easily see this as a franchise character for him. The movie has that European feel where violence is not only shown, but felt and Carey and Ryan have a nice palatable chemistry. I also enjoyed seeing a different side of Los Angeles. Downtown can be both beautiful and dilapidated. It all depends on where you look; the director, Nicolas Winding Refn shows us both sides.

One surprising performance is when Albert Brooks drops his funny man image and displays his dark side as a brutal ex- Hollywood producer with a very nasty business partner (Ron Perlman). Albert Brooks makes an excellent villain and shows the amoral callousness of a man who only loves money. This film may open up a whole new world for him. I especially was impressed with his final scene with Bryan Cranston. I’ll never forget the emotional notes played in that scene ranging from savageness to compassion. Albert Brooks really stands out in this role.

I liked this film, especially the way it used lighting to convey the driver’s emotions. The directing is to be commended for it’s mastery of timing and tone. Ryan Gosling says little in the film so these clues tell us what we need to know. Whether it’s speeding up or slowing down, the style of the film tells us what Gosling’s blue eyes do not. There is so much more to learn about him. I’d love to see a sequel to this film.

Rating: First Run Style and substance

Moneyball

2011-09-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

“There’s something romantic about baseball”, quotes Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, General Manager of the Oakland A’s. But later he answers to a colleague, “Adapt or die!” This is his dilemma. Managing the team with the smallest budget in the American League Billy Beane is sick and tired of having his players snatched out from under him and losing to teams with deeper pockets. In order to solve his problem and forced to stay within his budgetary constraints, Beane has decided to put his career on the line and try something new, Sabermetrics.

Moneyball is the true story of Billy Beane who had the courage to stand up to 150 years of baseball tradition in order to apply a mathematical theory to the recruiting and signing of baseball players. His assistant (Jonah Hill) provides the analysis and Beane provides the clout to do it his way. He incurs the wrath of his scouting team, his manager (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and most importantly the fans. But he knows that if he commits to the idea fully and it works, he’ll be changing the game of baseball forever.

Sabermetrics was created by a statistician and baseball historian by the name of Bill James. He named his abstract Sabermetrics after the Society of American Baseball Research (SABR). But the beauty of this film is that the math doesn’t matter. The film is so smartly written and entertaining that the statistical analysis is in the background and the people are brought to the front. This is a story about human nature, resisting change, and courage in the face of opposition. It is more than a baseball movie; it is more than dry statistics. It is about seeing players with new eyes and finding value in the under-appreciated.

Brad Pitt is excellent as Billy Beane. His character is so fascinating that you are constantly watching his face to see what he is thinking. He looks completely natural in this setting and when surrounded by his scouts and managers you feel like you are sitting in a real recruiting session. When I first saw Philip Seymour Hoffman I barely recognized him. He looks like a hundred managers you’ve seen before and when he opposes Brad Pitt’s Billy Beane you just want to go up and smack him. He represents tradition and the way things have always been done and Jonah Hill’s character represents new ideas and a way of leveling the playing field. The chemistry between Hill and Pitt is outstanding. They are these quirky little Davids standing up to Goliath.

It is unusual for Hollywood to make a film about math but after the success of last year’s The Social Network, it only goes to show that a good story is a good story. If a film is well cast, passionately acted, expertly directed and begins with a good script, then even statistical analysis can be interesting and fun. Moneyball is an excellent film with lots of laughs, insight and a memorable performance by Pitt. Not only does it get you in the locker room, but behind the scenes and in the front office too. I loved this insider’s look into the game of baseball and even if you are not a fan there is much here to love.

Rating: Must See Even if you are not a fan of baseball, there is much here to love

Contagion

2011-09-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

Watching Contagion is a clinical experience. It reminded me of The Andromeda Strain or those disaster movies of the seventies that were jammed packed with Hollywood stars. The movie follows the course of a disease while health workers and scientists try to determine how the virus spreads, how it kills and where it came from. By tracing the virus back to its origin and how it transmits, the outbreak can be contained and eventually eradicated.

I’m not sure it was a good idea casting Laurence Fishburne in this film. As soon as I saw him in a white lab coat he reminded me of CSI and completely took me out of the film. Add to that all the shots of offices, clipboards, labs and slide presentations I felt like I had signed up for science class. I thought it was interesting for the camera to focus on all the ways that humans pass germs and make contact throughout the day, but after a while it slowed things down and as a result the movie lost some of its momentum.

I am a huge fan of the 1971 movie The Andromeda Strain. I loved how the film focused on two patients and the handful of scientists who worked around the clock to solve the mystery of why these two people were still alive. In contrast, Contagion goes global. The backdrop is international with so many people participating that it is hard to get attached to any of them. You’d think that Matt Damon would play a larger role but as soon as he has his big encounter at the hospital he is sent home to remain in isolation with his daughter. Kate Winslet comes in and out of the movie as an investigator and then is left lying on a cot, and Marion Cotillard gets kidnapped and doesn’t reappear again until the end of the film. This story is so busy with so many players it is difficult to feel empathy for any of them.

In another unusual turn for this movie, Gwyneth Paltrow begins the film by dying. No need for a spoiler alert because anyone who has seen the previews or the movie poster knows she is going to die. The rest of the film follows her in photos and video surveillance. Luckily for us she contracted the disease in a casino with lots of cameras. Otherwise we’d be left with people talking about where she had been and that would be very boring.

Today more people are afraid of disease and germs than ever before. Companies fuel our fears by alarmist ads and articles and then turn around and sell us hand sanitizer, face masks and air purifiers. In this film Jude Law represents the opportunists of society. Unfortunately there are too many like him in real life. But the scariest part of this film is that when it comes to disease and biowarfare is hard to fight an enemy you can’t see and even harder to get people to take the right precautions. I remember how freaked out I was in college while taking a zoology course. After discovering all the animals that feed on our dead skin cells and actually live on our bodies I’ll never be the same again.

We are a big complicated inter-connected world and there are billions of organisms that share our planet. Plagues are scary, outbreaks are tragic, but it is also comforting to know that there are men and women who think viruses are cool and will continue to isolate and study them. They are our only defense in this microscopic world. Let’s hope that this film will excite some budding scientists. Our last frontier is under the microscope.

Rating: Bargain Matinee This film was a clinical experience

Saving Private Perez

2011-09-05T20:46:00.000-07:00

Summer is coming to a close and if you want to end it with a silly, humorous, action flick try Mexico’s Saving Private Perez. Julian Perez (Miguel Rodarte) is the most powerful man in the country with criminal ties all over the world, but in the eyes of his mother he doesn’t exist because he had dedicated his life to dishonest pursuits. Her good son, Private Perez, has just gone missing in Iraq. The Army has listed him missing in action but Mama Perez reaches out to her wayward son. “Go get your brother” she commands. “Go to Iraq and bring him back alive.”

Using all his criminal ties Don Perez assembles an elite team, a la’ The Dirty Dozen and flies them to Turkey in his private jet. Once there they are joined by a Russian contact who will smuggle them into Iraq using their gun running and drug routes. For Perez his wealth and influence have purchased him the best in guns, supplies and intelligence, but out of his native Mexico he and his gang are a comic sight running around the country in silk shirts, cowboy hats, gold chains and rattlesnake boots. Since this is a comedic action film, things in Iraq do not go well as our extraction team encounters foreign cultures, alien ways, and are a target for both the Iraqis and the Americans. It is only their mustached macho persistence that causes them to prevail.

Saving Private Perez is funnier is you are familiar with Mexican archetypes. My favorite bit is when their Russian guide serves the men some kind of Russian goulash and one of the men instantly whips out his hot sauce. Soon the other men are all begging for a chance to add in the precious chili. Later this little red bottle is used as a device of torture. It’s funny because it’s true.

I was amused by this movie. The parody is subtle and the more you know of Mexican culture, the funnier it gets. It is fairly light weight, some of the sets and costumes are a bit cheesy but there is enough heart here to keep you connected to the story. If enough people see this film I can see it developing a cult status. It has that campy quality. But I may be overestimating the movie going public. It hard to get Americans to see Mexican films. But it would be nice if you give this one a chance.

Rating: Bargain Matinee A Mexican gang takes on terrorists in Iraq

Colombiana

2011-08-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

Luc Besson knows who to write for strong women. They are tough, fierce but still allowed to be sexy, feminine and able to show emotion. But he is also known for writing films that are high-adrenaline, short on plot and full of action. For Colombiana you just sit back, let go, and allow the emotions take you to that dark place where vengeance, anger and retribution are waiting to be expressed. As a woman there is something cathartic about watching another woman who is indomitable, capable and equal to the task, taking out the low-life domineering men that step into her path. You leave the theater feeling refreshed, a little taller, and basically like a bad-ass.

In Colombiana, the beautiful, sexy Zoe Zaldana plays our fierce, tenacious, feminine hero. As a little girl she grows up in Bogata, Colombia and her father is involved in the drug trade. She is a bright, well-educated and very much loved by her parents. But when she sees them murdered in front of her own eyes and a family friend is now interrogating her about a missing microchip, she shows him that all her education may not have come from Catholic school as she shimmies down the side of a building and escapes the hired assassins.

As per her father’s instructions she uses the microchip as her passport into the United States where she escapes her government escort and seeks out her uncle (Cliff Curtis). He is a thug in Chicago and he takes her in to his home where she learns everything she can about being a cold-blooded killer. When she reaches maturity and the height of her talents she starts picking off the men, one by one, who where involved in her parents death.

Cataleya is named after a rare orchid from Colombia and her father places an orchid necklace around her neck right before he dies. She uses this symbol to mark her kills sending a message to Don Luis that she is coming. Her Tio has trained her well and with her intelligence and focus she is quite lethal, but when her kills start becoming personal her uncle warns her to slow down and step back. But Cataleya has waited 15 years for her vengeance. She is lonely, angry and only has room in her heart for hate until she meets an artist named Danny (Michael Vartan).

Danny knows Cataleya as Jennifer and she shows up at will in his apartment and leaves just as mysteriously. He has grown to love this tender and passionate woman, but he knows nothing about her. His Jennifer is guarded, secretive and disappears whenever he pries. The only proof that he has that she exists at all is the photo he took on his cell phone when she was asleep. A photo that she doesn’t know he has.

Soon, the messages that Cataleya has been leaving for Don Luis have also made her known to the F.B.I. The agent in charge of the case (Lennie James) is starting to connect the dots and Cataleya is running out of time. She must finish her task before Don Luis disappears again. Don Luis is being hidden by the C.I.A. and Cataleya must smoke him out. Columbiana is is fast-paced, explosive and full of action. And Zoe Saldana is one attractive bad-ass.

Rating: First Run Zoe Saldana is one attractive bad-ass assassin.

Our Idiot Brother

2011-08-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you listen to Liz, Miranda and Natalie, their brother Ned (Paul Rudd) is an idiot. After spending three years living and working on an organic farm he gets arrested for selling marijuana directly to a uniformed cop. When he is released on parole his former girlfriend Janet (Kathryn Hahn) has replaced him with another emasculated male (T.J. Miller) and to add injury to insult she keeps his dog Willie Nelson. With no other place to go, Ned returns to his family and is passed around between his sisters as he subsequently destroys each one of their lives.

After leaving mom’s house (Shirley Knight) Ned first moves in with Liz (Emily Mortimer). She is a politically correct mother of two married to a documentary filmmaker (Steve Coogan). Liz is so overwhelmed at trying to be the prefect wife and mother that she hires Ned to help out with the kids, and he’s great at it. But when he makes an idiot mistake he is kicked out of the house and sent along to the next sister.

Miranda (Elizabeth Banks) is the career type. She is fighting to be taken seriously as a writer and has finally landed her first big interview. But once again Ned not only gets involved with her interview but with her relationship with the guy who lives upstairs (Adam Scott). Jeremy is her best friend and the only one who seems to put up with her bossy and pushy ways. Ned thinks that they should be together and this changes their whole dynamic.

The next sister to take Ned in is Natalie (Zooey Deschanel). She is an inspiring stand-up comic living with her lesbian girlfriend (Rashinda Jones). Their apartment is crowded with other artistic types and Ned fits right in. But Ned is so guileless that he screws up their relationship too. The problem with Ned is that he is open, honest and unguarded in his speech. He sees the best in everyone and he’s accepting too, even his promiscuous sister gets a pass. To the outside world, Ned is a little eccentric, maybe even flaky, but he is genial, friendly, kind and easy to talk to, qualities that his uptight sisters lack. Our Idiot Brother is a film about family and how it is hard to appreciate the people living under your own roof.

Paul Rudd is very likable as Ned and it doesn’t take long to realize that he’s not really an idiot, he has just chosen to live his life by a different set of standards. Growing up among a gaggle of pent-up, tightly-wound women and his decision begins to make sense. As the film unfolds you may identify with the sisters and maybe even understand their embarrassment at having someone like him around, but this film will have you questioning who has got it right and who is really the happiest. Our Idiot Brother is amusing, insightful and stars Paul Rudd. A good reason to see a movie in my book.

Rating: First Run Who is the idiot?

Mozart’s Sister

2011-08-26T10:12:00.000-07:00

Leopold Mozart was a gifted composer and teacher whose career was overshadowed by his prodigy son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Little Wolfie would eavesdrop on his older sister’s music lessons and at the age of three he already showed musical talent. At age five Wolfgang wrote his first composition and Leopold resigned his job to tour Europe with his talented children. Nannerl (Marie Feret) was five years older than Wolfgang and she was accomplished in piano, violin and voice. But when Wolfgang proved to be exceptional at the violin, Nannerl was forbidden to play the instrument given the reason that it was un-lady like.

Nannerl and Wolfgang (David Moreau) were very close. They spoke in a musical language all their own and Nannerl often helped him write down his compositions. When she asked her father (Marc Barbé) to teach her to compose he discouraged her and said that few had the talent. But the more that Nannerl was put down and repressed the more she wanted to express herself musically. If Nannerl had been born a boy her life would have been completely different. In this case her sex has betrayed her.

Being a child music prodigy in 18th century Europe meant traveling throughout the continent visiting the wealthy and influential hoping to be lavishly praised and paid. You were always at the mercy of your host who would provide you with rooms and oftentimes instead of payment you were showered with small trinkets and gifts. But in a time before recorded music it was the only way to become well known. Leopold Mozart was proud of his children and wanted their genius to be renowned, but he was also accused of exploiting them.

One day while traveling in the country the Mozart family’s carriage breaks down and they find themselves at an abbey. While seeking refuge for the night they discover that the King of France has warehoused his three youngest daughters’ there. Because they are the youngest and female they have been sent to the convent to be raised by nuns. Nannerl so strongly identifies with these young princesses that they become quick and fast friends. Nannerl even promises to secretly deliver a letter to the Dauphin of France when she visits court in the coming season. The princesses have never met their older brother and they barely remember their parents.

Because the court is in mourning and it is forbidden for the prince to receive women, Nannerl is disguised as a man in order to deliver the letter. The prince is taking a music lesson at the time and he asks her if she can play. Because she is dressed as a man, and it would not be deemed un-lady like, Nannerl picks up the violin and impresses the Dauphin. He calls on her again, but out of guilt and fear of exposure she confesses her true sex and identity. The prince becomes her confidant and protector.

With the prince’s admiration and encouragement her desire to compose becomes even stronger. She evens disguises herself as a man, now that she knows it’s possible, to attend lessons at the Academy of Music. But as Wolfgang becomes more famous, Nannerl is pushed further into his shadow. She is discouraged by her parents and slips reluctantly into a more feminine role. Mozart’s Sister is a film about repression, prejudice, and the people living in the shadow of greatness.

Rating: First Run Mozart's Sister is about the people living in the shadow of greatness

The Hedgehog

2011-08-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

A precocious 11-year girl named Paloma (Garance Le Guillermic) equipped with her father’s camera has been chronicling the lives of the people around her. One of the most fascinating subjects to her is the dowdy superintendent of the luxury apartment she lives in, Renee Michel (Josiane Balasko). Paloma calls her the Hedgehog because she is all prickly on the outside, but she also suspects that underneath she is soft and a bit of a romantic. To Paloma’s thinking, Madame Renee has found the perfect hiding place in her job.

Renee Michel is a woman of routine. Her office apartment opens exactly at 8:00 A.M. and don’t bother coming early, you will be sent away. She dutifully distributes the mail, collects packages, cleans the lobby and makes sure that the trash cans are brought in every week. But when not on duty she withdraws into her inner sanctum with a hot pot of tea, a good book and some dark chocolate.

When Paloma discovers Renee’s secret life she asks her why she keeps her extensive library hidden. Renee explains that rich people don’t like to have their menials educated and that they enjoy feeling superior. Besides, she doesn’t want to be bothered, she likes her secret life. But when a new tenant moves in, a rich, widowed, Japanese businessman, he sees right through her disguise. He quickly picks up on a literary reference and from her expression he knows that he has discovered a kindred spirit.

Kakuro Ozu (Togo Igawa) is a kind, democratic man and he invites Renee to dinner in newly decorated home. He also opens up his life to Paloma who is fascinated by Japanese culture and is learning to speak Japanese. The three of them become friends and Renee opens her life to Paloma as well. Paloma is an enigma to her own family but her new friends see her in ways that her family cannot. Paloma also sees through them and a bond is quickly formed. The Hedgehog is about acceptance, insight, and learning how to love. It is about seeing through one’s defenses and learning how to drop your own. The Hedgehog is a lovely story, bittersweet with a quiet impact. I really enjoyed this film and identified with it more than I can say.

Rating: First Run A movie about seeing people for who they really are

One Day

2011-08-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

Two college graduates meet on July 15 (St. Swithun’s Day) and after a lot of alcohol they spend the night with each other. Emma (Anne Hathaway) is a smart, serious student and Dexter (Jim Sturgess) is a carefree, fun-loving ladies’ man. After their sexual encounter gets interrupted they part ways as friends but Dexter gets her number first and she reciprocates by writing long, heartfelt and humorous letters. After many years Dexter begins to appreciate her as the one constant in his life and Emma relies on him as the one guy who accepts and loves her for who she is. Together they are better people.

One Day follows Emma and Dexter every July 15th as life brings them together and takes them apart. It sees them through bad jobs, bad relationships, and various successes and detours. For them July 15th is like an anniversary, a reminder of the day they met.

As a romantic drama this film meanders through decades chronicling the life of these two friends. There is no tension as to whether or not they’ll ever sleep with each other, the drama lies in the idea of whether they’ll be able to maintain their relationship as they grow and change as people. This is a thinking man’s romantic drama. It is a character film with a St. Swithun’s Day device. It investigates the nature of love, friendship and personal growth and why we are attracted to people and how they impact us.

I liked this film. I was engaged throughout, but it lacks the highs and lows of most romantic dramas. I can’t say that it is cliché free but it is far from corny. Jim Sturgess is very touching and if you can get past Anne Hathaway’s trendy clothes and dramatic hair choices, her performance is honest too. This is by no means a chick-flick but if I were to see this film again I would enjoy it best curled up on my couch on some rainy morning. According to the legend if it rains on St. Swithun’s Day it will rain for 40 days after and that’s how this film feels, dark, cloudy with patches of sunshine. Watch this film and look for the rainbow.

Rating: Bargain Matinee The perfect film for a rainy day

Sarah’s Key

2011-08-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

On the fiftieth anniversary of a shameful event in France’s history, a reporter named Julia Jarmond begins to do research for an article on the Vel’ d’Hiv round up of 1942. Through her research Julia (Kristen Scott Thomas) discovers a link to her own life. Her husband’s family home was acquired when the Jewish tenants that lived there were forced out during the war. Guilt stricken, Julia obsesses over the Jewish family and a little girl named Sarah whose name does not appear on the concentration camp death rolls.

Julia’s husband has just inherited the said apartment and she cannot stand to be in it knowing its history. Without revealing to him the cause of her tension she hunts for records, evidence and the fate of little Sarah. She cannot live in that place without knowing the truth and that her in-laws are blameless for what happened to the Starzynski family.

There is so much ground to cover in this film as Julia’s search takes her all over Europe and America. For a while you feel immune to the emotional impact as each secret is revealed. But when you get to the end the commutative effect is like a sucker punch in the stomach. It sneaks up on you. And like Julia you will be forever affected by the mystery behind Sarah’s Key.

Rating: First Run A family mystery reveals itself

Fright Night

2011-08-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

It totally makes sense, vampires in Las Vegas. There are plenty of night jobs, a transient population, and a culture of decadence that makes it easy to get people alone. What makes even more sense is casting Colin Farrell as a Vampire. He is such a good actor that he elevates the genre and can switch effortlessly from light to dark, sexy to savage, and he navigates every tonal change like a master tightrope walker never making a false step.

Fright Night is a perfect date movie or a night out with the friends. It is scary, funny, and full of perfectly pitched performances that makes this movie better than the average scare fest. Anton Yelchin plays Charley Brewster, a teen-age boy who has ditched his childhood friend (Christoher Mintz-Plasse) in order to be with the stunning and vivacious Amy (Imogene Poots). When his former best friend tries to warn him that a vampire has moved next door, he blows him off to be with his new, cooler friends. But when Ed goes missing, Charley begins to take the warning more seriously. And when he discovers that Ed was right he goes to the only person who might believe him, Peter Vincent (David Tennant) a Vegas performer and vampire expert.

Peter Vincent is the star of a show called Fright Night and every evening he slays vampires on stage. But he is also a collector of vampire lore and artifacts so Charley and Amy go to him for help. David Tennant is hysterical as the pampered Vegas headliner. He lives in a pent house apartment which is decorated in display cases filled with everything vampire. But as fierce and courageous as he is on stage, in the privacy of his home he is a total coward. It is fun to watch him as his on-stage persona is literally peeled away revealing the milksop underneath.

Once Charley is convinced that vampires are real and his 400 year old neighbor is one of them he has to convince his single mom (Toni Collette) to stay away from the hot new neighbor. And Colin Farrell is hot. His vampire is charming, manly and hard to resist. He is also smart and it also doesn’t take him long to figure out that his identity has been revealed. His solution is to be even more aggressive and this is where the horror begins. He sets his sights on Charley, his mom and even Charley’s girlfriend. The stakes are high as Charley tries to drive in his own stake in new and creative ways. This film is a lot of fun and will satisfy the horror fan. It also plays well as a comedy. Fright Night is creative, fast paced, well-acted and a lot of laughs. Be sure to bring your garlic and crucifix.

Rating: First Run Colin Farrell will have you craning your neck

The Help

2011-08-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

I was standing on the sand watching the horizon and waiting for the big wave of a movie called The Help to hit me. But when it finally reached the shore and slapped my legs I didn’t even lose my balance. Based on the hype, I was expecting to be knocked down flat, instead I was underwhelmed. The film is decent, there are some excellent performances, but as far as the story goes, I saw nothing new.

Perhaps for young viewers with no sense of history this movie may be shocking. But for someone like me who lived through the period there was no new ground covered here. Emma Stone plays Skeeter, a young white woman who grew up in a big southern house and was raised by a black nanny. She returns from college and gets a job at the local newspaper and suddenly she has a conscious. That in a nutshell is my problem with the movie, character motivation. Repression is a byproduct of fear and an act of rebellion takes courage. All throughout this film I was looking for those defining moments, those sparks of courage that allow a person to stand up. But in some cases they were really hard to find.

There are two performances that are pivotal to this film, Viola Davis as Aibileen and Bryce Dallas Howard as Hilly Holbrook. Both performances are crucial to the story and they are wonderful. Aibileen is a black maid who took pride in raising seventeen white children. She learned at the age of 14 that she had the ability to influence and instill self-esteem into her young charges even when their parents ignored them. But her heartbreak occurs when the children grow up. As adults they fall right into step and become just like their parents. Not everyone turns out like Skeeter.

On the other side is a woman like Hilly. She was raised by a black maid too, but when it was her turn to run a house and become a part of society, her fear and insecurity causes her to use her influence to spread hate. Not only does she use her power to ostracize the outsider who stole her former beau, but she uses her leadership to spread her bigotry through political means. How can any woman raised and nurtured by a black nanny turn out this way? Besides insecurity and fear what is her motivation, what causes her to be so hateful and venomous?

It is never clear why these white mothers maintained such a distance from their children. Some were distant while others were downright neglectful. Even Skeeter claims that her nanny raised her while her mom (Allison Janney) was busy with her meetings and such. Why were these woman so detached when it came to their children?

When it comes to Skeeter it is never shown where her courage and indignation comes from. Is it her eastern education or the unexplained disappearance of her beloved nanny (Cecily Tyson) or is it her outsider mentality? Skeeter was never like the other southern girls. Or is it just a way for her to secure a new job? When she returns home she joins her peers at the league, dates a southern boy, and tries to fit in, but why is it different now? Did someone open her eyes at school, was it the civil rights movement? What causes Skeeter to fall out of step. Once her writing project begins she cannot do it alone, she cannot succeed without the cooperation of “the help”, the women whose stories she will tell. I really wanted to know why these women finally said, “Enough!” I was more interested in the catalyst.

Viola Davis’ Aibileen is Skeeter’s first interview but it isn’t until Minny (Octavia Jackson) climbs on board that the ball gets rolling. Minny is sassy and resents being put down but she swallows her pride in order to care for her own family. Aibilene on the other hand always took pride in her job. She is good at it and it is what she knows. It isn’t until she loses her own son that she becomes bitter and resentful. As the two most fully realized characters in the film their motivation is clear, but what about the rest? Standing up and speaking out could get a person beat or killed. This is not something the women would do without conviction.

I am going to recommend this film based on some very strong performances, but I do have reservations when it comes to the execution of the story. I have not read the bestselling book. Perhaps it does a better job explaining the culture. But based on the hype and the high praise going in I really wanted to love this movie and leave praising its virtues. But after seeing it I just felt underwhelmed. I would love to be convinced otherwise, that I missed the point or I am expecting too much from a movie. I sincerely hope you enjoy the film more than I did, but for me The Help needs help in making a stronger statement.

Like Skeeter I made a few stands in my life and I could tell you exactly when, where and why these acts occurred. I guess I was expecting the same from the movie, more pivotal and defining moments. I like the movie, I respect what it is trying to say, I just wanted more clarity and understanding. The Help is about women who changed the world and that is a very worthy subject.

Rating: First Run Change begins with the word enough

The Guard

2011-08-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure how to take this movie. The humor is very British, or more accurately Irish and The Guard has a comic sensibility all its own. Brendan Gleeson plays a maverick police officer in a remote part of County Galway. He believes in protecting his little part of the world but he does it in his own way ignoring rules and procedures if they are too much of a nuisance. He knows his town and he knows his people and like a beat cop in America, not much gets by him. But he has no use for the politics, corruption or outside interference of others, this is his home and he’s on the job.

When Sergeant Gerry Boyle responds to a murder and finds that he’s strapped with a new young officer from the city (Rory Keenan) Boyle goes out of the way to show him that things are different in Galway. Boyle displays absolutely no respect for forensics, protocol, or the victim’s dignity. But when his new partner’s wife, (Katarina Cas) arrives at his door to tell him that her husband didn’t come home, he is genuinely concerned. Underneath his rough exterior he’s a tender man.

The next day Sergeant Boyle’s world is rocked again when an American F.B.I. agent, (Don Cheadle) shows up looking for a drug smuggling ring and a half billion dollars worth of cocaine. Boyle shows his true colors by being a smart-ass in the briefing and he and the uptight American agent get off on the wrong foot. Once on his own turf, Boyle becomes invaluable because the locals are tight-lipped, suspicious and will have nothing to do with a black, American, English speaking, police officer. In a town that speaks Gaelic, FBI agent Wendall Everett could not be more out of place.

Behind his lazy irreverent appearance Sergeant Boyle is a deep man. He probably inherited his irreverent streak from his feisty mother (Fionnula Flanagan) who is dying from cancer and doing it on her own terms. They share a love of good literature, music and cutting people down to size. Boyle is also a favorite among the prostitutes because he makes their dates nights as much fun for them as he does himself. He is a strange complicated man.

When the drug runners do arrive, they are not your typical thugs either. They play intellectual memory games in the car and believe in reducing their work load by being smart which means bribing cops, intimidating locals and removing obstacles whenever necessary. When they discover that the FBI is in Ireland, Mark Strong is particularly funny as he criticizes American culture and their goody-two-shoes policing ethics.

If you are tired of all the police procedurals and action films of late and want to cleanse your palette than this film will do the trick. It’s like a little cop vacation in Ireland. Everything is the same but different, and the film will leave you guessing.

Rating: First Run If Clint Eastwood was Irish

The Devil’s Double

2011-08-07T00:08:00.000-07:00

What do you do if your father is the most powerful man in the country and you have access to an unlimited supply of money? The answer is anything you want! And if your father is Saddam Hussein no one is going to tell you no. That is why in The Devil’s Double, Uday Hussein (Saddam’s oldest son) snatches a young Iraqi soldier off the battlefield and turns him into his own personal body double. And Latif Yahia is not in a position to refuse.

The Devil’s Double, starring Dominic Cooper in a duel role, is the true story of Latif Yahia who was once a childhood acquaintance of Uday Hussein. With a few minor adjustments he became a dead ringer for the despised dictator’s son. Forced to stand in for him at public events Latif was also compelled to follow Uday around like a lap dog watching him perform despicable acts. To his family Latif was declared dead and when he tried to get a message to them that he was still alive, he was beaten and his family was threatened with death. So, trapped in a hellish nightmare, Latif has found himself as the devil’s new play toy.

Watching a sadistic, spoiled, out of control despot is not my idea of having fun, but witnessing Dominic Cooper chew up the scenery as Uday is a treat and something worth watching. Then when you see him play the conflicted, morally outraged and indignant Latif, you understand what a truly fine performance he has given. Playing Uday alone would have been a difficult task, Dominic gives him a manic quality that is over the top psychotic, but he also comes off lonely, insecure, and sympathetic. At times you feel sorry for him.

There are parts of this film that are really hard to watch. Uday was a monster and hurt a lot of people, especially women. But if you can stomach the viciousness of his acts, Dominic’s performance brings us two multi-layered characters and a bit of understanding to a troubling time.

Another fine performance is that of Ludvine Sagnier. She plays Sarrab, another one of Uday’s play toys who puts up with Uday to protect her family. Latif is attracted to her but knows that to touch her would mean certain death. Sarrab is also attracted to him because he is everything that Uday is not.

The rest of the movie is just a framework for three extraordinary performances, two by the same guy. I wouldn’t be surprised if Dominic Cooper’s name is mentioned around awards time. It is also interesting to think about the practice of using doubles. Saddam had his, so did Bin Laden and I believe Stalin had one too. It makes you wonder if we got the right guy. The Devil’s Double is a provocative film.

Rating:First Run Remember Dominic Cooper at awards time

Larry Crowne

2011-08-03T19:20:00.000-07:00

As a producer Tom Hanks has been so successful that he can pretty much produce anything he wants. As a director his credits are not as substantial, yet he still is one of the most powerful men in Hollywood. With his clout, prestige and access to the Hollywood elite I kept asking myself while watching Larry Cowne, “Why, Tom Hanks, why?” I just didn’t understand the appeal of this film.

Larry Crowne is the story of a middle age man who loses his job because he has never gone to college. Since his company has promoted him as far as he can go, they feel that it is time to sever ties. As an employee he has never missed a single day, he knows every position and presents a positive cheerful attitude. But in the corporate structure, focused on diplomas and degrees, Larry Crowne has become disposable.

Getting fired now is the worst possible timing for Larry. After twenty years in the Navy Larry has worked for the store ever since he left the service. He just took out a big loan to buy his ex-wife’s interest in their family home. So this blow to his self-esteem has hit him hard. Larry is feeling worthless and very vulnerable. It is difficult for him to remain positive.

After attacking the job market and countless interviews Larry decides to take matters in to his own hands. He enrolls in community college and in his first class he gets Julia Roberts as a teacher. Julia Roberts is in full burn-out mode. Her husband (Bryan Cranston) has published two books and is now staying at home all day surfing porn. She is unhappy with him, her job, and the state of her life. She has put her own writing aside and is fighting desperately to answer the question why is she still teaching? Mercedes has lost all her passion and inspiration.

Setting aside his SUV for a more economical scooter Larry has been adopted by another scooter rider who also happens to be a classmate. Talia, (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) is a pretty, effervescent girl who collects vintage clothes and dreams of having her own shop. She has taken on Larry as a make-over project and has brought him into her little gang. Her boyfriend (Wilmar Valderama) is keeping a close eye on him. He likes the guy but all this attention is ridiculous.

Like a smarter version of Forrest Gump, Julia Robert’s Mercedes becomes taken with this optimistic, cheerful, simple man. She turns into a more energized teacher, inspires her class, and they all become better public speakers. I can’t say that this film bored me, parts of it were kind of nice, but it was as bland as tapioca pudding. George Takei was kind of funny as an economics teacher and I really liked his role, but Tom’s other friends were kind of wasted. It was like the Pacific Palisades version of “Come on guys, let’s put on a show.” Everyone, including friends and family, got a part. But overall this movie was kind of dull.

Nia Vardalos wrote the script with Tom and both of their spouses appear in the film. Also appearing is Cedric the Entertainer, Pam Grier and Taraji P. Henson, a terrific actress that was given nothing to do. I don’t know what they were thinking or what they were trying to say but like a scooter this film was running on a two-stroke engine and it never really went anywhere.It was sweet, smooth and went down easy just like my favorite pudding. Not bad for a snack, but sometimes you want more. Disappointing when you consider the talent.

Rating: Rent It Sweet and as bland as tapioca pudding

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

2011-08-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a powerful movie. As someone who was raised with the Ape’s franchise I do not make this statement lightly. I hold this film to a very high standard and although there are a few things that I found fault with there is one scene that is so electric that the hair on my arms literally stood up. On this basis alone I recommend this film.

The strength of Rise of the Planet of the Apes is in its humanity. In the original Planet of the Apes star Roddy McDowall was able to convey his humanity through a latex mask and heavy make-up by using his posture and soulful eyes. In this film Andy Serkis does the same using the latest, state-of-the-art, motion-capture techniques. This film is capitalizing on the advances made by the groundbreaking movie Avatar. Taking it one step further Rise has created a portable MoCap unit being the first to film in a natural setting and in direct sunlight. This innovation frees them from the confinement of the soundstage and opens new possibilities. But when I speak of the humanity of the film I am also talking about the human actors, whether it’s live action or CGI, there are some really good performances in this film.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes centers on a scientist (James Franco) who has dedicated his life to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. His own father (John Lithgow) suffers from the disease and Will (Franco) has now become his father’s sole caregiver. With a focus boarding on obsession, Will has developed a benign drug-carrying virus that repairs damaged brain tissue. However, he has also discovered that in apes without brain damage, it actually increases brain function. In other words, the apes are getting smarter.

When a lab accident occurs, forcing the company to destroy all its test animals, the lead ape handler, Robert Franklin (Tyler Labine) is burdened with the loathsome task of putting the animals down. But while carrying out this despicable duty he discovers a baby chimp that is not on the company records. In an act of compassion he begs Will to take the baby with him until he can find it a home. Will reluctantly agrees but becomes attached to the little guy. Caesar has found a new father in Will.

It doesn’t take long for Will to discover that Caesar is no ordinary ape. His blood work reveals that he inherited the virus from his mother and his growth and intelligence is exponential. Will secretly carries on his work at home and even starts human trials on his father without clearance. When the cure appears to be working, Will admits to his supervisor what he has done. His boss (David Oyelowo) eager to make a profit overlooks Will’s breech of ethics and agrees to start a new trial. More apes are secured for testing and the vicious cycle renews.

Back home things are beginning to go wrong and Caesar’s existence has become publicly known. Thrown into a local primate sanctuary, which is little more than an ape prison, Caesar learns about brutality, violence, prejudice and hate. He uses his intelligence to survive his incarceration and eventually rises to become an ape leader. Caesar learns that he is now among his own and his own have been sorely mistreated.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes is an origin story that attempts to explain how apes grew to rule the earth. It is an ambitious project that couldn’t be made before because the technology needed to tell the story wasn’t available. We have come a long way since latex masks and hairy suits. But with the magic of motion-capture, Andy Serkis is able to age from a baby chimp into a fully mature chimpanzee. MoCap also allows him to convey intelligence, emotion and a full range of movement, something that the restrictive methods of the sixties could not do.

If you ignored the science-fiction element and all the special effects, Rise of the Planet of the Apes is really a father-son story. John Lithgow gives an elegant performance as a man struggling with dementia. His performance is meticulous as he shows varying stages of Alzheimer disease. He is also very touching as he develops a bond with his simian grandson, Caesar. For Franco, saving John’s character from Alzheimer’s is a very strong motivator. He also has formed a strong attachment to Caesar who becomes like a son to him.

Another nice performance, although understated, is Freida Pinto as Caroline Aranha, a veterinarian with an affinity for chimps. She is the voice of reason in this strange father-son story, but her affection for both Will and Caesar turns her into a surrogate mom. Until now Will has been too focused to let anyone in. But Caroline knows his secret and wants to help. She is the only one who has been able to get past his cold exterior. The four of them have become a strange family.

Another strong performance is Tom Felton as a nasty, sadistic keeper who loves to torment apes. His father, Brian Cox runs the ape sanctuary but he seems to be blind to his son’s behavior. He also seems to be blind to his original purpose and the condition of his establishment. He is not above taking bribes or selling his charges back to research facilities. We don’t know much about this despicable man, we only know that somewhere he lost his way.

When it comes to the CGI and the motion-capture work, the apes are extremely well done and photo-realistic. However, some species do look better than others. The orangutan is flawless and looks completely real and the Silverback gorilla looks great too. But when it comes to the chimpanzees, some look better than others. There is one old chimp that looks so familiar to me that I wondered if I saw him in a film before. Then I remembered that they are all computer generated so they probably used this chimp as a model. As far as Caesar is concerned I felt that they went too humanoid with him. At times he lost his simian qualities.

I loved how each ape was different with their own look and personality. This really helps you identify with them and see them as individuals. It also helps you understand their plight and causes you to be sympathetic. It is funny how in a movie pitting apes against humans that we end up rooting for the other side. How intelligent is that? But that is the power of film and science fiction. It allows us to look at things from another perspective and see them with fresh eyes. Planet of the Apes is about equality, prejudice, segregation and the hubris of science, themes that were tackled in 1963 and are still being tackled today. My question is how many films do we have to make before we learn our lesson? Apparently, one more, and like its predecessors Rise of the Planet of the Apes will make you think.

Rating: First Run A powerful movie that will make you think

Bellflower

2011-08-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Bellflower is the story of a really bad break-up. If you take immaturity, alcohol and add a flamethrower, bad things are going to happen. Written, directed and starring Evan Glodell, Bellflower is the apocalyptic tale of a relationship gone wrong. Completely made in true Indie fashion, Bellflower was picked up for distribution at the Sundance Film Festival. It is a unique, self-styled love story with a take all its own. Like a car wreck it is hard to look away.

Woodrow and Aiden (Evan Glodell and Tyler Dawson) are best friends. They moved to California because they thought it would be cool. Obsessed with the movie Mad Max, they spend all their spare time designing a flamethrower and planning for the end of the world. Relying on sketches and cartoons they made as boys they tinker, experiment and create weapons of mass destruction. Their theory is that a show of power is the final days will make them masters in a time of confusion. They call their gang Medusa and they are like grown-up little boys playing with dangerous toys. I bet that everyone knows someone like them.

Woodrow has recently broken up with a girl and Aiden drags him to a cheesy bar to get over it. Tricked into joining a cricket eating contest Woodrow meets his soulmate in Milly (Jessie Wiseman). Milly is wild child with a free spirit and a zest for life. She seldom thinks about consequences and she is the kind of friend who is fun to hang with, but you wouldn’t trust with a dollar. On a dare, Woodrow and Millie drive to Texas for their first date and fall in love on the way. Meanwhile on the road of myopic self-indulgence, Woodrow and Milly’s friends get left behind.

Milly’s best friend is Courtney (Rebekah Brandes) and she is feeling a little left out. She commiserates with Milly’s roommate and he agrees to have her birthday party there. Mike, played by Vincent Grashaw knows that Milly is a flake but he obviously has feelings for her. Meanwhile Courtney and Aiden become acquainted with each other as they both wait for their best friends to return. Aiden uses his time to pick up parts and finishes the flamethrower while Woodrow is gone. He feels a bit abandoned but is taking it better than Courtney is. The Woodrow-Milly love affair is leaving everyone in the dust.

Like most immature relationships built on superficial foundations the Woodrow-Milly affair doesn’t last, but like a weapon of mass destruction the fallout impacts those around them. Jealousy, rage, hurt and desire becomes a noxious cloud that covers them all. This tale is a tragedy but it also has moments of tenderness, brutal honesty and sweetness. You’ll feel like you know these people, or have least partied with them. You will encounter Woodrow’s gentle innocence, Aiden’s loyalty, Milly’s magnetism and Courtney’s sorrow. These are characters that you will always remember in a film that has its own special signature look and feel. If you are tired of the same ol’, same ol’, give Bellflower a try. It is a film that should be seen.

Rating: First Run It is a unique, self-styled love story with a take all its own. Like a car wreck it is hard to look away

Crazy, Stupid, Love

2011-08-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

Crazy, Stupid, Love is one of the best written, wonderfully acted and finely directed comedic-dramas that I’ve seen in a long time. It flirts with the idea of being a romantic comedy, but the performances are so heartfelt that it grounds you in the pain of a marriage breaking up and the reality of unrequited love. The plot is as complex as Shakespeare's Midsummer’s Night Dream, where desire is quickly followed by misunderstanding, yet in this movie the only magic is Steve Carell.

Steve Carell is the hinge-pin of this film and I believe that this is one of his finest performances. As Cal, he is in such shock when his wife asks for a divorce that he’d rather throw himself out of a moving car than to sit there and hear about her infidelity. Cal and his wife Emily (Julianna Moore) met when they were fifteen years old and have been a couple ever since. Emily questions her life and wonders if she is having a mid-life crisis.

Emily has never been with anyone else until she slept with David Lindhagen from the office. David Linhagen, and you must say the name while gritting your teeth, is played by Kevin Bacon. He’s a nice, good looking accountant who is totally enamored of Emily and can’t wait to get to work each day to see her. He makes Emily feel young, attractive and alive after 25 years of marriage with kids. She has forgotten what that spark is like and never got the chance to be a single gal. Cal on the other hand has never strayed. He knew the moment that he saw Emily at age 15 that she was the only one. For 25 years, Cal has been living with his soul mate.

After having his heart ripped out, Cal finds himself in a bar with young vibrant professional people. The women are beautiful, single, but none of them are interested in hearing about Cal’s failing marriage. They are there to hook up, have some fun, and decompress after a hard day’s work. But Cal doesn’t get it. He babbles on, if only to himself. His wife got all the friends in the split, he just needs someone to talk to.

After several days of being pitiful, Cal is called over by one of the bar’s greatest pick-up artists, Jacob. “I’m going to give you back your manhood,” he says. And Ryan Gosling as Jacob can do it. He takes Cal under his wing, gives him a make-over and then strives to build up his confidence. Cal goes along because he doesn’t know what else to do. His world has been shattered and he just wants to move on with his life.

When Jacob thinks that Cal is ready he drops him in the lap of a sexy school teacher (Marisa Tomei) wanting to have fun. She responds to Cal’s fumbling honesty and the two of them have a wild night. Cal has never been casual about sex before, he’s been with the same girl since he was fifteen years old. But after a night of adult fun, a new creature is born and Cal becomes a ladies man. The master has a worthy pupil.

Like Love Actually, all the characters in this film are connected in some way so it is delightful to follow every twist and turn. The conclusion is strange, explosive and very satisfying. There is little to not like about this film. Every performance from Steve Carell to Julianne Moore to the children and even the babysitter is expertly played and emotionally moving. Ryan Gosling gives insight and depth to his role as the playboy, and Emma Stone is engaging as the girl who finally turns him down. Analeigh Tipton is refreshing as the babysitter with a crush, and Jonah Bobo is soulful as the middle-school boy who only wants to be taken seriously. Every player in this film is relatable even when some of the devices get over the top. We believe because our actors are grounded and we know how they really feel. Crazy, Stupid, Love is a wonderful, lovely, thoughtful film. I enjoyed the movie immensely and it made me laugh.

Rating: First Run Where love is followed by misunderstanding

Winnie the Pooh

2011-07-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

It has been 45 years since Disney released Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree. What I remember loving the most about that film was the music by Robert B. and Richard M. Sherman and the voice of Sterling Holloway as Pooh. To this day I can still sing the opening song “Deep in the Hundred Acre Woods” and when appropriate I can quote Pooh when my I get “Rumbly in my tumbly.” For this reason I was not looking forward to a new version of the film. The old one has served me well for years. But after seeing Winnie the Pooh (2011) I was pleased with some of the innovations. This Winnie the Pooh was much more a literary interpretation.

The film opens with live action footage surveying Christopher Robin’s room and establishing all the characters, and then it transitions into animation. But instead of using some of today’s modern animation techniques, Disney has stayed with the classic 2D look only this time the animation is literally pouring out of the pages. The inhabitants of Hundred Acre Woods actually live within the pages of the A. A. Milne book and you can see them walk from page to page and even pick up words and move them around like props. For instance when all of the characters fall into a pit created to catch a monster, one of them begins to stack the words and uses them as a ladder to climb out. It was like the words themselves were another character.

The impact of this marriage between word and illustration is like a celebration of children’s literature. It gives the written word a gravitas and respect. But it also makes the film feel like it’s “good for you “, like mom is making you eat your broccoli. It is humorous, sweet, but not laugh-out-loud funny. It lacks the crudeness and slapstick found in many children’s films today. My concern is that kids will find it too old fashioned.

Sometimes as a reviewer you wish you could look at something with totally fresh eyes. Everything we see we bring our experience and background with us. In most cases this is a good thing. But when it is a children’s film, it’s hard to return to that place of innocence. I liked this Winnie the Pooh film, I just don’t know if it is as magical as the one remembered from my childhood. I guess I’ll have to ask a kid, and then check in with him 20 years later. Time has a way of changing our perspective, yet Winnie the Pooh has stood the test of time, 1926 and still going strong, Pooh is a remarkable bear.

Rating: First Run Pooh, a remarkable bear.

Francs Ford Coppola Bumbles His Way Towards Brilliance

2011-07-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

For many years directors and studios have learned that if you want a public reaction, take your idea to Comic-Con. Good or bad, the reaction will be swift, strong and brutally honest. The fans are passionate about their film and they never pull punches. That’s why studios spend big money to go to San Diego. A positive reaction will start a word of mouth campaign that money can’t buy and a negative reaction will give the studio time to create a fix.

In the past few years, many of Hollywood’s best directors have gone to Comic-Con to discuss new technologies, their latest films and the public’s attitude towards 3:D. James Cameron has embraced it; Peter Jackson sees its virtue, and many other directors are taking a wait and see posture. But one esteemed film maker, Francis Ford Coppola, is thinking completely out of the box.

When Coppola came to present his idea at the now famous Hall H his presentation was sloppy, erratic and full of apologies, but if you could look past the false starts, technical glitches and Val Kilmer trying to be witty, Coppola revealed a brilliant idea if only he can find a way to pull it off. His idea is centered on a film called Twixt starring Val Kilmer as a mystery writer who stumbles upon a local murder mystery through the town sheriff played by Bruce Dern.

Now I’m going to try my best to describe the project as I understand it. Francis Ford Coppola had a hard time explaining it and he is a genius. It all starts with the idea of making film a live interactive process. Coppola made a film and every scene and component of the film has been digitized and stored on a computer. Each scene is assigned a number and each numbered scene has a short and long version. The director, like a VJ, can then choose the order of the scenes or the length of the scenes based on audience reaction. Also the film has a combination of 2D scenes and 3D scenes, also chosen by the director. So essentially, each version, each screening, would be a completely unique and different film.

Since he was having so much difficulty getting his computer images to display on our big screen it was hard for me to tell what was going on. But each screening would have a director at the controls and the music may or may not have to be live. Also, the narrator probably would have to be present. It’s hard to imagine and I can think of a lot of problems, but the idea is very cool and innovative. In the 80’s Mr. Coppola restored a 1927 silent film called Napoleon and his father Carmine Coppola wrote an original score and conducted a live orchestra beneath it. The event was only able to play in large cities and in large venues so very few saw it. But those who did see it said it was magnificent.

I thought that Mr. Coppola was very brave to show us his project before all the kinks had been worked out and I wish him well on his tour. Elle Fanning is also in the film as a ghostly looking teenager and Ben Chaplain plays a dream version of Edgar Allan Poe. I liked the look of the film and alternating between 2D and 3D is an interesting choice. I look forward to seeing the completed film. As Coppola says, “This is just the beginning.”

Two New Twists on Classic Tales: A Comic-Con Preview

2011-07-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Of all the films I saw previewed this summer at Comic-Con, the two that intrigued me the most were The Immortals and Snow White and the Huntsman. The Immortals, based on Greek mythology, blasted my senses with color, depth, and a violence so stylized it was beautiful. It was like standing in a museum and having a Renaissance oil painting come to life. In this version, the director Tarsem Singh is working on the premiss of the Immortals being young. He reasons that if you had the chance to live forever, wouldn’t you want to be preserved in your prime?

The Immortals stars Henry Cavill as Theseus, Luke Evans as Zeus, Mickey Rourke as King Hyperion, Kellan Lutz as Poseidon and Stephen Dorff as Stavros. With such a cast of fine male specimens Freida Pinto says that her favorite part of making the movie was watching the men work. This film is slated for release on 11-11-11.

The other film that caught my imagination was Universal’s Snow White and the Huntsman. In this interpretation Snow White, as played by Kristen Stewart, becomes a rebel leader and mounts an offensive against the evil queen (Charlize Theron). Chris Hemsworth plays the Huntsman ordered to kill Snow White, but like the original story he is unable to follow through being captivated and seduced by her beauty and purity of heart.

Some people may grumble about the liberties taken by director Rupert Sanders but I am excited about the idea. Snow White becomes the People’s Princess and leads the dwarfs and others in a fight against a tyrannical queen. We were not told how Prince Charming works into the equation, but Sam Claflin who plays Prince Charmant said we won’t be disappointed.

Since Snow White and the Huntsman doesn’t begin filming until next week, all the studio had to show us was the cast in wardrobe photos. The director, however, brought along a clip from a video he made to show the studio his vision. This short film made with unknown actors conveyed to us the look, tone, and emphasis of the story. This video secured him the job and it convinced me, too. I am very excited about this film and luckily we only have to wait until June 2012 to see it.

The Captains: A Comic-Con Preview

2011-07-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

When it comes to Star Trek there is no one more familiar with it than William Shatner. Beginning in 1966 he played Captain James T. Kirk for three seasons and started a franchise that continues today. “I was enthralled with Star Trek from the beginning.” Bill says, “I had seen a pilot that was made with Jeffrey Hunter and they (NBC) didn’t buy it but said we like the idea, recast it. So, Roddenberry called me in and asked me if I would like to do it. And I saw the film and we talked about that film and from that moment on I was enthralled.”

Beginning with Captain James T. Kirk, five other captains have graced the bridge. Scott Bakula, in a prequel, played the first Enterprise captain Jonathan Archer. Kirk was next in line with the original series and he was followed by Patrick Stewart as Jean-Luc Picard. After Star Trek: The Next Generation, Avery Brooks became a captain on Deep Space Nine and he was followed by Kate Mulgrew who became the first female captain on Voyager. Next, in a re-boot of the franchise J.J Abrams cast Chris Pine as the young James T. Kirk entering the academy and gaining his first command. A second Star Trek film with Pine is currently in the works.

Since Bill Shatner has been associated with Star Trek for over 45 years he’s been able to watch this phenomenon first hand, “Star Trek has had an enormous influence on many individuals and in this film I’ve heard myself say that I rejected that for the longest time, like it didn’t seem real. And then gradually, over a period of time I began to accept that people have taken Star Trek to their hearts.” So in this spirit William Shatner created his documentary The Captains. It was, “A voyage of discovery for me. It’s a work of love, both for the material and people I got to know so much better.”

Bill goes on to describe in more detail his labor of love, “I met essentially, for the first time, all the guys. Some, most, I knew vaguely from some event that we might have passed though. But in engaging them in conversation and in exploring their psyches as I do in the film, I came to know all. And although the time can’t be measured in weeks and years, the hours we spent together were meaningful and I discovered traits among the six of us that I had no idea about. I discovered things about myself in examining them and preparing to talk to them. I examined myself and that’s what my voyage was on this film. So it’s about the captains and it’s about getting to know them and it’s about something that I arrived at, the epiphany that I arrived at in the film.”

When describing the documentary further Bill adds, “I tried to think of a fun approach to each individual so it was fun in the interview and took it way from talking heads. And with Chris Pine I put a table and chairs on Melrose Avenue right where the Paramount Studios has its gate and we arm wrestled on Melrose Avenue. And so, with Scott, I thought well, I’ll take him out to a horse ranch I know, where I have some horses, and interview there. But I made sure that we didn’t see each other. And then we walked down that road and met for the first time we thought it was great fun and laughed ourselves silly from then on. And we start to talk about how similar all our lives have been and how different.”

According to Scott Bakula, William Shatner is, “The beginning and end of this whole thing, and it’s not over as Mr. Pine is very well aware of. And it’s just a remarkable phenomenon to be a part of. And it’s all really because of him that we’re all here.”

When William Shatner entered the room to talk about The Captains the place erupted with cheers and applause. When the moderator commented on this enthusiastic response Bill says, “Audience reaction like that is unmeasurable. You can’t even put it into words.” But Scott Bakula admits, “I understand us (the fans) but I was overwhelmed by the world wide impact of what he started.” Star Trek is loved all over the world and has influenced millions. Perhaps this film can give us a better understanding into this series and the captains that have steered her course. Forty-five years in the making Star Trek still has something to say.

The Captains is currently available at EpixHD.com.

Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe (A Comic-Con Preview)

2011-07-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe is an experiment in television making. In a time when people are expanding the way that they view and consume media, content makers such as Universal, Fox and USA Network are discovering new ways to tell and distribute their stories. Burn Notice, one of the most popular series on cable television is entering their 5th season and have already been renewed for a 6th. To capitalize on the success of the show and the popularity of one of its stars, USA Network is releasing a Sam Axe origin movie straight to DVD.

Bruce Campbell, a cult favorite from his work in the Evil Dead series plays Sam Axe, an ex Navy Seal who accompanies and assists burned spy Michael Weston on many of his missions. Resourceful, laid-back and a bit of a ladies man, Sam Axe is a good guy to have in your corner.

Matt Nix, creator of Burn Notice says that, “When I think of Sam Axe, he’s kind of the best older brother there ever was. He’s the guy that you want by your side. He’s the guy that’s going to do the right thing and going to stand up for you and tell you when you’re wrong and all those things. So that for me is where I go when I’m writing for the character.”

To shoot the Sam Axe back story, Matt Nix assembled some key cast and crew and then took them to Bogota, Colombia to film the movie. Burn Notice star Jeffrey Donovan took the helm as director and using mostly Columbians they filmed in the Andes Mountains at 11,000 feet. The cast and crew couldn’t get over the fact that Bruce Campbell spent the entire shoot wearing nothing but a t-shirt while the rest of the people huddled by a fire leading the Spanish speaking men to exclaim, “El Gringo est macho.” But Bruce Campbell says that he lives by his, “Evil Dead theory. If you stay sort of miserable the whole shoot, you never get really miserable.”

Besides the frigid temperatures the film and its crew had many other challenges including equipment, supplies and high altitudes. When producers discovered that they couldn’t import gunpowder, a trade mark necessity for any Burn Notice show, they had to adapt and use propane instead. They also discovered that there was only one man in the entire country who knew how to make squibs. Matt Nix said that they kept him so busy that he’ll probably won’t have to work again for the next couple of years.

Conditions were extreme in Colombia but both Bruce Campbell and his alter-ego Sam Axe helped to keep things light. One of the traits that Sam Axe and Bruce Campbell share is a devil-may-care attitude. Matt Nix said that like his character Bruce is always with a smile, he takes care of people and he watches out for the crew. He points out to Bruce that, “There is a certain lightness you bring to any thing that you do.” And when it comes to the production he adds, “It’s not really a Bruce Campbell movie unless it’s fun.”

To demonstrate this sense of humor Bruce Campbell was asked what he did to prepare for his role and he said, “Two words: Jack, S#@t. I play a former Navy Seal, not a current Navy Seal.” But in preparing for the movie that takes place five years prior to the Burn Notice series he said he had to do two things, “Darker hair, less weight.”

One of the new elements that Bruce got to explore while making this film was a romantic relationship. In the TV show he plays the ladies man who is always picking up rich older women to pay the tab, but the exchanges are played for humor. In this film he has a real romantic relationship and even gets to share a kiss with Kiele Sanchez. When asked about it Bruce says, “It’s no big deal, I cheat on my wife all the time, but just in front of the camera.” But when pressed again he adds, “It was nothing.” and then gives his trademark roguish smile. Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe will be available on DVD July 26th.

Guillermo Del Toro: The Busiest Man of the Con

2011-07-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

It is impossible to see everything at San Diego’s Comic-Con but this year it seemed like everywhere I went Guillermo Del Toro was there. I first encountered him at the Film District panel promoting the up-coming film he produced, Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark. Having just flown in from Toronto Canada with severe back pain, he must have been a little hopped up on pain killers because he was dropping F-bombs everywhere, much to the chagrin of the moderator. A little while later he appeared at another panel with Jon Favreau. Even he noticed that Del Toro was having a little trouble censoring his speech. By the time he got to the Legendary Pictures panel to promote Pacific Rim, people just gave up.

Del Toro is such a passionate director and has such a love for making films that his poor language was over-looked. Between producing, directing and running a special effects house the man is never at rest. Let’s hope that his back will heal quickly and he’ll return to doing what he does best. Pacific Rim sounds awesome, Don’t Be afraid of the Dark looks awesome and I personally am looking forward to Pinocchio. Mr. Del Toro, get well soon.

Captain America: The First Avenger

2011-07-20T23:56:00.000-07:00

Now this is a hero I can get behind. Captain America is completely awesome. Not only is Steve Rogers the first Avenger, he was a hero before he was blessed with super-human strength. Fighting not because he was angry, or out for revenge, but fighting because he didn’t like bullies no matter where they came from, and in 1940’s Europe Hitler was the biggest bully of them all. Chris Evans plays Steve Rogers with heart, conviction and a solid sense of duty. Rated 4F on five different occasions, Steve never gives up. He is determined to do his part no matter what the cost and his small stature and weak body is just an obstacle to overcome. All he wants is a chance to serve. Steve Rogers is a true hero.

Captain America: The First Avenger is an excellent film mixing patriotic fervor with super hero style. It is well crafted, expertly acted, nicely paced and wonderfully balanced throughout. The blend between heart, humor, action and romance is set against the artistic backdrop of a futuristic world as imagined by early German impressionists. Every invention no matter how fantastic has a root in real science. It was the future as imagined in WWII.

When a German scientist portrayed by Stanley Tucci escapes Nazi Germany and brings his talents to the United States he hand-picks Steve Rogers as the test subject of his new super power enhancing formula. His first trial, tested before the formula was ready had disastrous results creating a villain known as Red Skull. Before his accident Johann Schmidt, played by Hugo Weaving, was a scientist himself. Financed by Hitler he was scouring the world for new weapons and technologies even pursuing myths, legends and untried theories. Under duress Dr. Abraham Erskine (Tucci) was forced to administer his drug on him before it was ready. As a result Schmidt is horribly disfigured and as mad as ever. Now he has super human strength too.

Once Steve Rogers is transformed from a ninety pound weakling into Captain America, a well meaning senator turns him into a public relations tool. Sent around the country making personal appearances and selling war bonds, Steve does his part without complaint. But when he hears that his best friend is missing in action he trades in his tights and goes out to find him. Working without orders he rescues 400 captured soldiers single handedly. The army finally realizes that they are wasting his talents and they change his directive. Captain America must now stop Red Skull.

Tommy Lee Jones plays Rogers’ commanding officer and it’s the kind of role that Tommy excels in. Also on Captain America’s team is a female British agent played by Hayley Atwell, and a brilliant inventor named Stark played by Dominic Cooper. They provide Steve with intelligence, tools and futuristic gadgets. Stark is also an ace pilot who goes on to develop Stark Industries. In the Marvel Universe he becomes Tony Stark’s father who in turn becomes Iron Man. As all the pieces are put in to place, The Avengers movie is going to be outstanding.

Of all the super hero movies I’ve seen so far, Captain America is one of my favorites. Not only is the story told well, I like the fact that he’s an average guy. When Red Skull looks him in the eye and asks him, “What makes you so special?” Steve Rogers replies, “Nothing, I’m just a guy from Brooklyn.” And that’s what makes him so great. There were hundreds of Captain Americas in World War II only they didn’t have super powers to go with their brave fighting spirit. They were just average guys, doing their part, standing up to the bullies of the world. Captain America was the fantasized ideal, but G.I. Joe was the flesh and blood reality. I love the patriotic nature of this character. I am also looking forward to his future leadership in The Avengers movies. I can’t wait for him to straighten some of those other super heros out. I can’t imagine him putting up with any of their nonsense. He’s an old fashioned guy in a modern world. Imagine John Wayne dressing them down. Some very exciting things are going to happen.

Rating: First Run A True American super hero

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two

2011-07-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

The saga of Harry Potter has come to a conclusion and in a film worthy of its predecessors Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two is a satisfying end to a true cinematic phenomenon. In my lifetime there has never been a series to match the consistent creative excellence of the Harry Potter films. Each chapter has been treated with respect, reverence and sound decision-making. Even when the films departed from the novels the choices were made to enhance the movie-going experience and to focus on the visual aspects of the story. The Harry Potter films have been a class act from beginning to end and worthy of critical praise.

For me, nothing will ever match the wonder I felt when watching the first Harry Potter film. Having never read any of the books I came in completely unprepared for what I was about to experience. I felt an instant kinship with our hero Harry and once at Hogwarts I loved all the little embellishments and details found in the background. At times I realized that I was missing dialogue because I was so fascinated by paintings that were alive, staircases that moved, and candles that floated in the air. I was lost in a world of magic and fantasy. I was lost in the world of Harry Potter.

As the series continued and I became more familiar with the characters the magical aspects of the film began to lose their impact. In turn I became more invested in Ron, Hermione and Harry. It is for this reason that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part One is my favorite film. I loved the intimacy of the movie. It reminded me of a war film where our heroes are forced to run and hide from the enemy like resistance fighters. It put them in a situation where their friendship is strained and their resolve is put to the test.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part Two is also like a war movie but of a different scope. Whereas Part One is more like a foxhole picture, Part Two is like a battlefield epic. But the beauty of Part Two is that you never lose the intimate feeling. Using 3-D this time around the battle sequences have tremendous depth and scope. But in between battles, in the quiet moments, you forget that the film is in 3-D. The effects are dialed back and once again it is an intimate film. This chapter of the story is also about transition. Ron and Hermione finally admit their feelings for each other and Harry becomes a man. His sacrifice is total as Harry literally lays down his life to save his fellow wizards and Hogwarts.

When you look back over the entire series of films it is wonderful to see the growth of Rubert Grint, Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliff. Beginning with the Chris Columbus school of acting in film one and two, they have grown to be fine and respected young actors. What an amazing life they must have had being immersed for 14 years in the world of Harry Potter and being influenced by the finest British actors on the planet. By keeping their heads on straight and paying attention they have been able to learn from the best. It will be exciting to see where their lives will take them next. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part Two is a wonderful end to a magnificent series. I doubt we’ll ever see its like again.

Rating: Must See A piece of cinematic history

Green Lantern

2011-07-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Two summers ago at Comic-com, the world of Geekdom was abuzz about the prospects of a live-action version of Green Lantern. Until a few years ago I had never heard of this super hero, but now that I was hanging out more with comic-book fans I was learning that he was quite popular. In order to prepare and familiarize myself with the story I sat through a feature length animated film entitled Green Lantern: First Flight. It did a terrific job laying out the mythology and I found Hal Jordan a likable character.

The next year Ryan Reynolds was on hand to promote the upcoming film and I thought that he was a good choice. During the question and answer portion of the panel a little boy approached the microphone and asked Ryan Reynolds to recite the Green Lantern oath. The entire place melted as Ryan solemnly recited his vows and then proceeded to give the child the ring off of his own hand. It was the cutest thing I ever saw and I was beginning to understand the power of this hero.

Now that the film is out, after a build-up of over two years, the moment of truth has arrived. Does the film measure up and will it please the fans? The reaction has been mixed. I for one was slightly disappointed. In watching the animated film two years ago, the part I liked the best was Hal Jordan displaying his cocky, flyboy antics. He had a tremendous ego and watching him interact with other pilots and his friends was a lot of fun. This should have been easy for Ryan Reynolds because he is good at creating a wise-cracking persona. But the Hal Jordan portrayed in this film had more angst. Except for flying, he didn’t feel like he was good at anything and he had some real self-esteem issues. That wasn’t what I was expecting and not being a true devotee, I don’t know if that quality is true to the comic book version.

In the animated film we got to know Hal first before the aliens were introduced and I liked this because I can identify more with Hal than any space being. But in Green Lantern they started with the alien world and a warrior who is in a battle for his life. He is the one who eventually gives Hal his Green Lantern ring. It took me awhile to get up to speed and figure out who was who. The only alien character I remember well from the animated film was Sinestro, being played here by Mark Strong. I thought that Mark Strong did a good job but he wasn’t given much to do. It felt like we were just being introduced to the characters, much like a television pilot expecting to develop further over time. In my opinion the script was too concerned about how to display and use the cool green super powers than developing its characters. I didn’t care about Blake Lively’s Carol and I felt sorry for Peter Sarsgaard. He could have done so much with that role if given enough time. I found the focus and priorities of this film all wrong.

Green Lantern isn’t the worst super hero movie I’ve seen but after a two year build up it didn’t live up to the hype. Super hero powers are cool, but it is the back story and the hero themselves that compel us to follow their stories. That’s why the X-men franchise works so well. These inhuman mutants are made human by allowing us into their private thoughts and lives. Green Lantern needs to be more grounded, only then will be be ready to follow him in flight.

Rating: Rent It Did not live up to the hype

Friends With Benefits

2011-07-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hooray! The romantic comedy slump is over. Friends With Benefits is smart, sexy, engaging and a lot of fun. And that’s just talking about the co-stars. If you aren’t already in love with Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake then this film with do it. If you are already in love with them, then this film will make you feel intelligent for discovering them earlier. With Patricia Clarkson portraying Jamie’s flaky mom and Richard Jenkins playing Dylan’s Alzheimer's stricken dad even the supporting cast is above par. Throw in Jenna Elfman as the understanding sister and Woody Harrelson as the wise, advice-giving “girlfriend” and you have one outstanding cast.

Friends With Benefits begins with New York dwelling Jamie cursing a Katherine Heigl movie poster for filling her head with romantic notions. She has just been dumped by her boyfriend (Adam Samberg) standing in front of a revival house playing Pretty Woman. Meanwhile across the United States in Los Angeles, Dylan has just been dumped by his girlfriend (Emma Stone) in front of a John Mayer concert. Since the break-up will allow him to skip the concert he is considering it the best break-up ever, but in truth he is too emotionally guarded and his girlfriend has just called him on his lack of commitment.

When Jamie, who is a corporate head hunter, recruits Dylan to come to New York for a job as an artistic diretor of GQ magazine she decides not to sell the position but rather the city itself. If she can convince a contented Angeleno to give up his beloved LA, then she will get a huge signing bonus and another one if he makes the year. So she woos him. Not with her body, but with her love of New York and gives him the most romantic Big Apple weekend ever. He takes the job and Jamie and Dylan become best friends. Their relationship grows, they let their defenses down and become very close. But when a friends with benefits experiment threatens to destroy what they have, everything must be reevaluated and put right. They both start seeing other people and try to hold on to their friendship with both hands.

The beauty of this film is the intimacy and rapport that we develop with these two characters. You become so invested that you enjoy spending time with them. You are in on the jokes, you learn their little quirks and you feel their pain when you watch them struggle with their other relationships. The script is so rich and layered that you feel like you really know this couple and you care deeply about them. You want them to succeed as people, together or not.

The comedy from this film comes mostly from character and you will find no gross-out humor, minimal physical schtick and only the occasional gay joke supplied by Woody Harrelson who plays a homosexual sports reporter for the magazine. The writing is so well done that you laugh with the characters instead of at them. They don’t go cheap to get you to snicker and another plus about this film is that it capitalizes on it’s stars natural assests. Mila uses her raspy voice, exotic looks and plucky nature to great effect and even makes fun of her small breast size. In contrast Justin uses his white bread visage and his ability to make fun of himself as he croons cringe-inducing pop songs and sneezes after sex. These are two actors who are very comfortable with who they are and it shows. Throughout this film you want to see them together.

Another fun thing about this film is it’s use of location. There is this whole east coast, west coast challenge going on and it leaves you wishing that you were rich enough to live bi-coastal. Both New York and LA are given such glamour treatment that it makes you want to take a vacation. That is the sign of a good romantic comedy, you fall in love with falling in love.

So if you are disappointed and feel betrayed by the most recent offerings of romantic comedy, then take perk up. Friends With Benefits will give you hope. If not for a relationship then for the state of the American film. There are outstanding young directors on the rise and Will Gluck is one of them. He also directed the delightful Easy A and the hysterical Fired Up! I also want to give props to writers Keith Merryman and David A. Newman. Great job team, I had a excellent time.

Rating: First Run If you aren't already in love with Justin and Mila, this film will do it

Zookeeper

2011-07-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

If you could talk to animals, I mean really talk with animals, what would you say? Are you one of those people who like to commiserate with their cat or burden their dog with their troubles or woes? Well, Griffin Keyes (Kevin James) lead zookeeper of the Franklin Park Zoo is. He shares all his problems with his animal friends. But when the woman (Leslie Bibb) who dumped him five years ago shows up, hinting that she may have made a mistake, his animal charges step up and break the code, for once instead of just listening they talk back.

The premise for Zookeeper is based on the idea of what kind of dating advice would an animal give. Just because an animal can talk doesn’t mean that their advice will be any good and this is the dilemma for Griffin Keyes. Do you pee on trees, puff up your cheeks, mark your territory and give your best roar, or do you reach out and listen to your human counterparts and hope that they’ll have a better advice?

Stephanie is back in town to attend the wedding of Griffin’s brother. She has just broken up with her boyfriend (Joe Rogan) and seeing Griffin again she remembers how sweet and kind he was, a quality that her most recent boyfriend sorely lacks. But right before Griffin can ask her out, she reunites with her boyfriend and he and Griffin become romantic rivals. Competitive, vain and extremely athletic Joe Rogan’s Gale appears to be the better man. In weakness Griffin listens to his animal friends and displays some behaviors that are less than human. The surprise is, some of them work.

Using a combination of live animals and CGI the animal stars of Zookeeper are full of personality. We’ve come a long way from putting peanut butter on the lips of horses to give the illusion of conversation. But the problem with Zookeeper is that as good as the animal actors are there are still scenes where the animals could not perform together. They would act their parts separately and then using movie magic they would be spliced together. This gives the appearance that the animals are in the same place but like the actors who voice them all the acting is done separately and apart from each other. This impacts the comedic timing and makes things feel slightly off.

I really enjoyed Kevin James and I especially liked the chemistry he has with fellow zoo employee Rosario Dawson. Their scenes are sweet and at times very sexy. It was also fun to see Donnie Wahlberg in a small role playing an abusive colleague that eventually sends Griffin over the edge with gorilla rage. But overall the film felt compartmentalized. Each segment on its own worked fine but when put together it doesn’t quite mesh. Good comedy is as much about rhythm and timing as it is about funny dialogue and prat falls. For me the film was full of starts and stops, and things that should have been funny fell flat.

As a family film the kids will really like this one. I also think that there is enough there for the adults to enjoy. But for a film about wild animals this movie feels very tame. Appropriate for taking the kiddies, but too weak for date night. I would have liked some better dialogue and some sharper jokes, but Kevin James nails the physical comedy perfectly. Ken Jeong also appears as a reptilian reptile expert. I think that he and Crystal the monkey must have the same agent.

One of the more funny segments of the film is when Griffin sneaks Bernie the Gorilla out of the zoo to visit T.G.I.F. Fridays. Bernie the Gorilla voiced by Nick Nolte has been depressed and now that the two of them are talking Griffin has learned the source of Bernie’s depression. Falsely accused of attacking Donnie Wahlberg’s character, Bernie’s has lost his enclosure with a view. Griffin decides that a night on the town and a change of scenery will do the trick and seeing Bernie work his animal magnetism on the ladies helps Griffin too. He learns to channel his own inner beast.

This film is full of star-studded voice work with the likes of Adam Sandler, Sylvester Stallone, Cher, Judd Apatow, Jon Favreau, Faizon Love and Maya Rudolph to name a few. But honestly, a lot of the time they were talking over each other and stepping on each other’s lines. I think this is what lead to my sense of disjointedness because they probably didn’t record their scenes together. But kid’s won’t notice this and teenagers won’t care, they’ll be too busy quoting Donald the Monkey. The film is fun, family friendly and celebrates the gift of being human. “It is all about the thumbs” quotes Donald.

Rating: Bargain Matinee A film about wild animals that feels very tame

Attack the Block

2011-07-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure what was more alien to me the South London street kids or the extraterrestrials falling from the sky, but Attack the Block was a lot of fun. As soon as I was able to pick up on the British slang and get past some thick accents I thoroughly enjoyed this fresh take on the aliens invading earth genre. Brought to us by the producers of Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead I was expecting a lot of humor and satire, what I didn’t expect was some pretty cool creatures that were unique, effective and quite scary.

Attack the Block takes place in a low-income housing project with four towering complexes joined together by a labyrinth of bridges and stairways. A group of boys who live there fancy themselves as thugs and patrol the block committing petty crimes and misdemeanors. The oldest boy Moses, played by John Boyega, is the natural leader of the gang and the other boys look up to him. When an alien crashes down on them from the sky, interrupting their mugging of a young nurse, Moses and the boys chase it down and kill it. This is a mistake that they soon regret as dozens of other aliens follow with revenge on their minds. Their childhood bravado becomes a matter of life and death as they fight together to protect their neighborhood.

What made this movie work for me was the chemistry between the gang members. At heart most of them are good boys with a caring parent trying to survive in a violent world. But the street has hardened them and exposed them to the thug life. Having an enemy they can unite against is therapeutic for them. Their criminal skills now have a noble purpose and working together strengthens them.

The only cast member that may be familiar to American audiences is Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz). He plays a marijuana horticulturist who works in a fortified apartment on the top floor of the complex. His boss, Hi-Hatz, played by Jamayn Hunter is an authentic gangster and he is just as scary as any invading alien. When he sets his sights on taking out Moses, the boys don’t know who to fear most.

This film is full of fun characters from trash-talking home girls to a wanna-be ladies man. All of the teenagers are amusing and watchable, but Alex Esmail stands out as Pest. Seeing him trying to make time with the nurse (Jodie Whittaker) that they just tried to mug earlier that evening is hysterical. He also comes through in a few other crucial moments with some welcome comic relief. I really enjoyed his performance as well as the other boys who are all quirky, fun and fully developed characters. Keep a look out for Sammy Williams and Michael Ajao as Probs and Mayhem, bravery can come in small packages.

Attack the Block works as a comedy, sci-fi adventure, as well as an action film. To quote one of the characters in this film, “These aliens are sick” and with their black fur and glow in the dark teeth they are truly frightening in the dim lighting of the run-down apartment complex. Young John Boyega has a lot of charisma and has the making of a true action star. He is the heart of the film and brings a lot of gravitas to the story. I look forward to more from this up and coming actor and highly recommend this film.

Rating: First Run A fresh take on the aliens invading earth genre

Bad Teacher

2011-06-24T00:23:00.000-07:00

Has Cameron Diaz ever carried a movie before? This was the first thought that came to my mind when I exited the theatre and every title that I came up with had her in a supporting role or sharing the screen. But in Bad Teacher, Cameron Diaz is definitely the star. The question is did she pull it off and if so, how did she do? Well after weighing the pros and cons I have to say she managed to hold her own and if I was going to grade the film overall, I think I would have to give it a C; a solid effort, but room for much improvement.

In Bad Teacher, Cameron Diaz plays Elizabeth Halsey a shallow, self-centered, duplicitous woman who becomes a teacher because the hours are short, you have summer’s off and there is little to no accountability. Ready to kiss her one year teaching career good-bye, she plans to marry over the summer, but her situation suddenly changes when her gold-digging motives come to light and her rich fiancee dumps her. Nearing forty and running out of time, Elizabeth decides to focus all her attention on finding a new millionaire and she feels that the best way to achieve this is with a boob job. Instead of throwing herself into her second year of teaching her new focus is raising cash and finding a rich husband. After all, new tits are not cheap and you have to buy two of them.

As a character, I think that Cameron Diaz had a clear vision of who she wanted Elizabeth Halsey to be, but when you consider what an awful, morally bankrupt person that is, it was kind of brave of her to throw her self completely into the role. The R rating is deserved, but on the other hand there is little nudity involved. There is however a lot of profanity, racial slurs, gay jokes, vulgarity and explicit drug use. If your idea of funny is watching a teacher light up and engage in the kind behavior they told you not to do, then you will like this film. But if you think that is too easy and you expect more cleverness in your script, then you are going to be sorely disappointed. This film is wearing a dunce cap, it could have been much smarter.

One of the strengths of Bad Teacher is its stellar comedic cast. There are some real pros in this film and the featured actors are funny too. Jason Segel plays a flabby easy-going gym teacher, Justin Timberlake, a repressed substitute teacher, and Judy Punch portrays a over-zealous colleague who has Elisabeth Halsey in her crosshairs. The dolphin-loving school principal is nicely played by John Michael Higgins and Phyllis Smith from TV’s The Office plays a weak-willed teacher who looks up to Halsey for validation and approval. But as good as all these actors are, their comedic styles didn’t always mesh. Some characters were broad and over the top while others were a bit more restrained. There were sparks of brilliance and some really funny moments, but overall the film lacked cohesiveness. The tone was consistent, but it needed more color and shade. I often felt that the film lacked originality.

I wouldn’t say that Bad Teacher was a bad movie, I did laugh and I found a lot of scenes in the film to be funny. But it is too inappropriate for teenagers and probably not raunchy enough for young adults, so I wonder who this film is made for. If this movie was a teaching assignment an evaluator would ask what the objectives were and what was the goal of the assignment. A little clarity and more direction would have made a much better film. The result seemed like a term paper written the night before it was due. It got the job done, but if better planned, it could have been brilliant.

Rating: Bargain Matinee I think I would have to give it a C; a solid effort, but room for much improvement.

Mr. Popper’s Penguins

2011-06-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves finding a package on his or her doorstep, but for Tom Popper (Jim Carrey) that experience has lost its thrill. For years his globetrotting father has been sending him exotic gifts from all around the world. As a child Tom Junior loved his dad and was thrilled to follow him on his ham radio at night. But now a package means a missed birthday, Christmas, or other landmark occasion. For “Tippy Toes” Popper a package has become synonymous with disappointment.

As an adult Tom has created his own kind of adventure. He has become one of the premiere real estate developers in New York City and for him New York is the world. To match the prestige of his envious position Popper has traded in all the curios and souvenirs of his youth for a sterile, cold penthouse apartment. He is rich, successful, and at the top of his game, yet he is divorced, alone, and only sees his kids on alternate weekends.

One day Popper receives some devastating news. His father has died on an expedition to Antarctica and during the reading of his will it is revealed to him that Tippy Toes will be receiving one last gift. When it arrives Tom opens the crate with resignation and is surprised to find a frozen box containing a full size Gentoo penguin. Tom is less than thrilled with his father’s gift but admires the expert taxidermy. Little does he know that the penguin is alive and about to upend his life.

Due to a bad phone connection and a language barrier, Tom receives five more penguins. He’s called every agency in the book and no one will take them off his hands. Finally the zoo agrees to give them a home, but before they can pick them up his son mistakes them for his birthday present. Popper decides to go along and now his kids can’t wait to visit him. Enjoying his newfound status as the world’s coolest dad, he puts the zoo off for now and decides to enjoy this time with his kids.

As the needs of the penguins soon outweigh his own Popper begins missing work, changing his priorities and forges a new relationship with his kids (Madeline Carroll and Maxwell Perry Cotton). Even his ex-wife (Carla Gugino) is enamored of his new house guests. For the first time in a long time the family is together and happy.

If you are expecting this film to be similar to the Newbery Award children’s book, let me stop you right here. The original book Mr. Popper’s Penguins written in 1938 by Richard and Florence Atwater has a completely different story line. The only thing that this film shares with the classic tale is the title and a basic premise. But both stories have something to offer. This film just has a different emphasis. In Jim Carrey’s version it is about love, loyalty and a strong sense of family, qualities that penguins exhibit in the wild. You won’t be getting the Popper’s Penguins of your childhood, but you’ll be getting a new story to cherish and love.

Jim Carrey is delightful as Mr. Popper. Using live Gentoo penguins in the making of this film, all his comic skills come into play just to keep up with their chaos. Jim, who loves animals, thoroughly enjoyed the experience, but admits that working in a refrigerated environment was quite a challenge. Another treat in this film is the return of Angela Lansbury. She plays the fictional owner of Tavern on the Green, Mrs. Van Gundy. This film is a real love letter to New York, and you will thoroughly enjoy visiting some of its most beloved sites.

Mr. Popper’s Penguins is a quality family film that everyone can enjoy together. With the mix of live animals, animatronics, and CGI you’ll be hard pressed to tell where the real penguins end and the animated ones begin. In this film Jim Carrey has returned to the comic silliness that made him a star. And if you are not already a fan of penguins, you will be. To quote Jim Carrey, “They’re like puppies times ten.”

Rating: First Run A quality family film that everyone can enjoy together.

Bride Flight

2011-06-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

Ravished by WWII and a devastating flood, three young Dutch women and a man meet on an airplane flying to New Zealand. The Dutch airline KLM was part of an air race and since the majority of the passengers were war brides immigrating to New Zealand to start a new life, the plane was dubbed Bride Flight. The three women of our story, Esther (Anna Drijver), Marjorie (Elise Schaap) and Ada (Karina Smulders) all come from completely different backgrounds. The one thing they have in common is the desire to start over and the willingness to make sacrifices to do so.

On board with the three young ladies is Frank (Waldemar Torenstra). He lost his entire family in the war and spent time in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. All he wants is a place of his own and the land to start a vineyard. He befriends all three women but it is Ada that steals his heart. They fall in love but it isn’t meant to be. She is promised to another and all four part ways as they see what this young country has in store for them.

Our story starts at the end with Frank bringing them all together once again. Rutger Hauer plays old Frank and he’s always been the glue that’s kept them in touch. As they each gather at Frank’s vineyard our journey takes us to the past where we get to know our characters, what happened to them and how their lives intersect.

If you enjoy star-crossed love stories, epic sagas, and historical fiction, you’ll love Bride Flight. We’ve seen this before in American and British productions, but it is nice to see this story from another perspective. When immigrating some assimilate better than others and some find it hard to adapt. But each one has their own past to escape and their own future to embrace. Bride Flight is a very satisfying adventure and the excellent acting and beautiful scenery make it even more so.

Rating: First Run Four brave souls start fresh in post war New Zealand

X-Men: First Class

2011-06-12T21:25:00.000-07:00

I have never read a single X-Men comic book and I am completely ignorant when it comes to their origins, but for some reason I’ve enjoyed every film, including this year’s addition, X-Men: First Class. X-Men: First Class features James McAvoy as Charles Xavier and Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr. What I learned is that they were friends before they became enemies and the film also shares how Xavier became Professor X and started his school for exceptional youths.

I have some friends who are huge comic book fans and they’ll go on and on how the film differs from the series. But as a three-time attendee of Comic-Con now I have learned that even within the comic book industry, characters re-invent themselves. So as far as I’m concerned, it is all fair game, a film is a film and a book is a book.

I believe that the reason this series works so well is that it has a social message underneath all the explosions and special effects. These are humans who have discovered that they are different and they don’t know whether to embrace or hide their special talents. In this film, we learn that Mystique (Jennifer Lawrence) began life as Raven and that Xavier discovered her when he was a boy and treated her like a sister. They grew up in the same home, but as young adults the ways that they adapted to their special talents started a rift between them. Soon, Xavier’s new friend Erik spoke more her language. Xavier was all about service, duty and sharing your gift for the greater good. Erik, who becomes Magneto, is more about power, payback, and not apologizing for anything. When you look back to what was happening in the world when these stories were first written, it all makes sense.

What I liked the most about this film is that the special effects supported the story and didn’t overpower it. The center of the film was the mutants, the kids, and how they felt about what was happening to their bodies and how they learned how to control it. It is also about acceptance and inclusion, something that we are still learning today. That is why these stories resonate. As a society it is a quality that we still haven’t mastered.

Since this film will probably be built upon, others characters are mentioned or shown briefly. Also it must connect with the X-Men films that have gone before. One of the new major characters to appear is Kevin Bacon who plays the evil nemesis Sebastian Shaw. Rose Byrne also appears as Moira Mac Taggert, a government agent who befriends Xavier. But please don’t ask me if these characters appear in future films or have appeared in any of the other films that have gone before. I can’t keep them all straight. The first film came out in the year 2000 and a decade has past since then. What I can tell you is that the mythology is deep and rich; these stories can go on for a very long time.

Rating: First Run The X-Men and how they began

Super 8

2011-06-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

School is out and Joe (Joel Courtney), Cary (Ryan Lee), Preston (Zach Mills) and Martin (Gabriel Basso) are all sneaking out of the house at midnight to help their friend Charles (Riley Griffiths) finish his film. Charles is consumed by film and he believes that with the help of his friends that he’ll be able to win a local Super 8 movie contest. With Joe doing make-up, Martin playing the lead, and Cary willing to die multiple times and blow things up, all that is left is Preston behind the camera and their little zombie flick has a chance. But when writer and director Charles begins to doubt the quality of his script, they are competing with high schoolers after all, he decides to give his detective a wife, So, he recruits Alice Dainard, played by Elle Fanning, to play the love interest and Joe for one is thrilled.

While out at a remote part of town, filming at an empty railroad station, an unscheduled train approaches and Charles decides to use it in his film. But just as it passes by the train derails dumping its load and a very nasty secret. As the army tries to cover things up, Joe’s dad (Kyle Chandler) who is the local sheriff becomes mighty suspicious and starts digging for the real truth. The whole town gets swept up in the subterfuge and only the kids have proof of what the army is really hiding.

Super 8 is a pure, overblown, popcorn chomping, summer flick. Yet when the kids are on screen the entire film is elevated. They provide an underlining tenderness and weight to the film and an excuse for all mayhem. Elle Fanning is tremendous in this film and Joel Courtney provides a nice natural counterpoint for her intensity. Ron Eldard plays her dad and he is indirectly responsible for the death of Joe’s mother. This dynamic fuels the film because Joe’s dad, the sheriff, still can’t forgive him. Alice and Joe’s attraction becomes like Romeo and Juliet as their two widower fathers deal with their grief. Joe and Alice are the heart of the film and their relationship is the catalyst for all kinds of action.

Super 8 writer and director J.J. Abrams keeps the army’s secret hidden for as long as possible and then when he must reveal it, he only gives us a piece at a time. Like a certain smoke monster on a Lost island in the pacific, the answer to this mystery is slow in coming. But luckily for us the kids are so engaging that we enjoy the wait. Also it was fun having a 1970’s rural America setting. It reminded me of a time when children still came together to play, sharing a summer of magic. A time before videogames, iPods, and DVR’s began to keep us apart. Super 8 is a reminder of a different era when the lives of kids were more simple. Soon Stars Wars would premiere and then Raiders and all the rest. The world would enter the digital age with home computers, mobile phones and things would never be the same. This film is a throwback to when the “Event” film got started. It’s a nod to Spielberg, Lucas, and the films of that age. But what I liked best was the capturing of innocent youth. Super 8 is a tribute to a simpler time when the imagination of children ruled the summer. Thankfully some of them grew up to make films and our summers will be forever captured.

Rating: First Run A pure, overblown, popcorn chomping, summer flick

The Hangover Part II

2011-06-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

“Honey, we’ve done it again.” Phil has just woken up from a blackout on the floor of a seedy Bangkok hotel. He, Alan, and Stu have no idea where they are or how they got there. As Phil (Bradley Cooper) begs his wife to cover for Stu (Ed Helms) and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) until they can gain their bearings and find their way home he adds, “This time it’s worse, much worse.”

In 2009 when the original Hangover came out it was a surprise hit that became one of the highest grossing films of the year. The tagline read, “Some people just can’t handle Vegas.” And the country fell in love with a schoolteacher, dentist and a funny little bearded man that carried around a baby named Carlos. The film was shocking, vulgar, crude and for most people, hilarious. But then they announced that they were making a second film and the news was received in two different ways, “Yes!!!!” or “No, they are going to ruin it.” I was amazed that they were trying to do a sequel at all.

Since the first film’s success relied on surprise, shock and an unusual storytelling technique, the sequel had to be very creative not to let their fans down. I couldn’t imagine how they were going to maintain the element of surprise since we are all aware of the premise by now. Yet, in The Hangover Part II, I believe they did. The Hangover Part II is just as crude, tawdry and shocking as the first film and I for one was pretty impressed.

Now in general, I don’t go for this type of humor. Many of the elements in this film were too vulgar for my sensibilities. On the other hand I find these characters very appealing and this bothers me. I’ve put a lot of thought into this; how can I be attracted to three men who are completely reprehensible and morally bankrupt? But I think I figured it out. We still love them because like us, they are just as disgusted and disturbed by their behavior as we are. These are guys, average guys, but when under the influence of illicit drugs, demons are released and things get screwed up. So this is really a cautionary tale, a warning to all that moderation is the key. That is unless you’re talking about comedy, and then more is better.

Ken Jeong reprises his role as Mr. Chow and he is just as outrageous as ever. Also, I think that it is funny that the fourth member of The Wolfpack (Justin Bartha) still gets left out of all the action. Not a very lucky break for the actor, but in the context of the movie it is very amusing. In addition, this time around Mason Lee is introduced into the gang as Stu’s future brother-in-law Teddy. Teddy plays a key role in the plot of this film which adds a new element of danger.

Speaking of danger, Paul Giamatti is in this film. And when you add in his character with the underworld elements, anything can happen including a monkey, a priest and a mountain of blow. This is not a film for the kiddies, but if you like your comedy with edge and your humor blue, this film delivers big. This is not P.F. Chang’s man this is the real deal. Just don’t lose yourself to Bangkok.

Rating: First Run This time it’s worse, much worse

The Trip

2011-06-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

They say that to really know someone you have to travel with them and after The Trip it becomes very clear that you should never enter a car with two British comedians. In The Trip, which is both hysterically funny and mind numbing at the same time we get to better know England’s Steve Coogan and Wales’ Rob Brydon. Originally conceived as a six-episode television series The Trip has been edited to produce a feature length film. In it Steve Coogan plays Steve Coogan, a British actor who is trying to break free of his television persona and become the star he’s meant to be in American films, and Rob Brydon who plays Rob Brydon, a popular British television star who is beloved in his home country.

In the beginning Steve has accepted a writing assignment from a magazine to tour the north country of England and sample various culinary hot spots and country inns. He took the assignment to impress his “foodie” American girlfriend, but she abandons him at the last moment to take a job back in the states. This leaves Steve scrambling for a traveling companion and the task falls to his old friend Rob.

Since both men are playing variations of themselves it is hard to know where the truth ends and the fiction begins, but according to the film Rob and Steve have known each other for eleven years and have worked together in television. Rob is a happy sort. He has a wife, child and a successful career. Steve on the other hand is very frustrated. After a few critically acclaimed roles in American film his career has stalled and he feels his celestial clock ticking. He has been forty-one for the past three years and feels that if something doesn’t happen soon he’ll lose all his momentum.

On the road Steve takes every opportunity to ridicule his friend and make sure that he is always viewed as the bigger star, but Rob takes it all in stride. He feels like the luckiest man in the world and he doesn’t resent Steve’s his American success. But Steve is indignant that his romantic trip is now being shared with a short, loutish Welshman. Steve is miserable and doesn’t mind sharing his discontent.

What makes this movie so funny is the constant banter between the two comedians and their clash of personality. Steve is supposed to be critiquing food but after his first meal enjoying some tomato soup all he could come up with is that it tasted very “tomatoey” and very “soupy”. Rob counters with an equally inane description, which leads to an extended comic riff. Steve and Rob compete over everything from celebrity impressions, to line readings, to who has the better room. And Steve must always come out on top. But Rob doesn’t care; he’s just enjoying the ride and time spent with his sparring partner. You can’t put a happy man down and that makes him even more annoying.

I really enjoyed this movie and found myself chuckling throughout. Some have said that it worked better on television being divided into smaller doses so it’s easier to take, but I don’t know. I’ve been around guys like these and the constant need for affirmation can be exhausting, but for me that’s what makes this film work. Underneath the laughter is the insecurity found in most comedians and Steve’s character is in a delicate place. In truth he is jealous of Rob and envies his modest life.

I love the contrast in this film. On one hand you have these posh, elegant dining establishments full of pretentious servers and serious chefs and on the other hand you have these two guys getting loud and doing dueling impressions trying to decide who does the best Michael Caine. You have the inns, the country, the historical significance and then you have a guy pouting because an old lady was more excited about meeting a TV star than an award-winning film actor. I found the juxtaposition poignant and funny. And like any road trip if your companion becomes too tedious and begins to drive you crazy, just put on your sunglasses, nod a lot and enjoy the scenery out the window. This movie may have felt long to some but for me it was a pleasant ride. Besides, the good thing about roads trips is that they always end. This one may have been long, but for me it was a good one. I wouldn’t mind traveling with them again.

Rating: First Run Posh food, country inns, and dueling Michael Caines

The Beaver

2011-06-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

Standing on the ledge of a hotel balcony Walter Black is ready to jump. Suffering from major depression for years he’s tried everything including doctors, pills, and eastern philosophies, but nothing seems to work. Tired of the strain it has put on the family, his wife Meredith has finally thrown him out. Walter is sick, really sick and ready to end his life. With the shower rod still attached to his neck after a failed attempt at hanging himself Walter has dragged the rod, shower curtain and all, with him to the ledge. In his hand is a toy hand puppet that he tripped on along the way. Just as he is about to leap, bam, the puppet slugs him in the jaw.

Deep down inside Walter is still there but since he was ready to give his life away, “The Beaver” has taken control. With the puppet and a funny voice Walter can now function again, but without The Beaver Walter is worse than ever. The problem is everyone else. Will his colleagues and family learn to accept “The Beaver?”

I was very moved by this film and feel that Mel Gibson is very brave to do it. To see a grown man of his stature interact with a hand puppet is really something to see. Mel makes himself extremely vulnerable in this movie and I totally bought into his relationship with The Beaver. It reminded me of a film a long time ago with Anthony Hopkins called Magic. At times it’s a little creepy and at other times it’s scary. Like everyone who meets The Beaver for the first time you ask, “This is a joke, right?”

Directed by Jodie Foster, The Beaver is given a light touch. At times it’s funny, at times it’s poignant and at other times it will break your heart. Jodie plays Meredith, wife to Walter Black and Cherry Jones plays the vice president of the toy company Walter owns. It is very interesting to see how the women in his life react differently to The Beaver. His oldest son portrayed by Anton Yelchin wants nothing to do with him. His father embarrasses him and he is trying desperately to destroy anything about himself that remotely resembles his father. His youngest son Henry (Riley Thomas Stewart) loves The Beaver. The Beaver spends time with him, talks and shares his feelings. His dad Walter never did that. As far as Henry is concerned, The Beaver is great.

Walter’s oldest son Porter is so miserable at home that for two years he’s been planning his escape. With a knack for composition, Porter has been writing other people’s term papers and charging them dearly for the service. This practice leads him to Norah (Jennifer Lawrence) and her own problems at home. On the surface Nora is perfect, smart, pretty and a cheerleader to boot. But with a closer look her family is just as screwed up as his is. It is good to discover that he is not alone. By seeing family life through her eyes Porter eventually softens towards his father. But will The Beaver ever let his dad return?

Rating: First Run A personal film about how we cope

Midnight in Paris

2011-06-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

For nostalgic types we all have a favorite era. A film buff may fantasize about the golden age of Hollywood, a musician may pine for Vienna in the time of the Beethoven or Mozart, and in Midnight in Paris, first time novelist Gil (Owen Wilson) is enamored of 1920’s France. This was the time of Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. The literary scene was exploding, artists were changing the world, and intellectuals were shaking up politics. Picasso and Dali did it with paintbrushes, Cole Porter did it with song, and Bunuel did it with film. But the writer’s did it best. It was heady time and Paris was the center of it all. For Gil, this city was magic.

Back home Gil is a successful motion picture writer. He has come to Paris with his fiancé (Rachel McAdams) and her parents John and Helen (Kurt Fuller and Mimi Kennedy). John is a rich conservative businessman and he is there for an international merger. They thought this would be the perfect opportunity for a little pre-wedding vacation and a chance to buy furnishings for their daughter’s soon to be new home. But Gil isn’t so sure. His fiancé Inez wants them living in Malibu with all the trappings of the Hollywood elite. But Gil has other ideas. He once had a chance to live in Paris and has always regretted his decision not to do so. Now that he’s taken off time to write a novel, why not stay here? He could write his book and spend time in the city of his dreams.

One night during dinner they run into Paul and his doting wife Carol. Inez invites them to join their table. Paul (Michael Sheen) is a professor that Inez had the biggest crush on in college. They have all kinds of plans for dancing, museums and trips to the country and since Paul likes to have an audience he insists that they come along too. But after spending one day with Paul Gil looks for any excuse to get out. In the name of fresh air he wanders about the streets of Paris and gets seriously drunk and completely lost. As he sits on some steps trying to decide what to do next the church bells toll midnight, Just then an exquisite antique car drives by and the beautiful couple inside offer him a ride. The occupants are Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald.

Midnight in Paris is a magical film full of warmth, humor, whimsy and fun. It is less cynical than Woody Allen’s more recent films and Owen Wilson does a tremendous job as the Woody Allen alter ego. He easily captures the pessimistic nature of Woody but still brings a pensive, sweet, reflective quality that’s all his own. I absolutely loved him in this role, especially the boyish glee he displayed when he got to meet his favorite literary idols.

In addition to the aforementioned cast Midnight in Paris is full of wonderful supporting roles. I don’t want to give too much away but some of these parts are delightful. As a fan of Adrien Brody I was thrilled to see him in the film and Kathy Bates as well. Marion Cotillard is also wonderful as a woman with many admirers.

Watching Midnight in Paris I was transfixed from beginning to end. I found the movie funny, romantic, and I learned something as well. But mostly I just had fun. As Owen Wilson’s Gil says in the film, “Somebody should notify the chamber of commerce.” If you’ve never been to Paris before you’ll definitely want to go now. I can see why Woody loves it there. With this film they should make him ambassador.

Rating: First Run A love letter to Paris

Kung Fu Panda 2

2011-05-31T20:33:00.000-07:00

Kung Fu Panda is back with all our favorite characters, Dustin Hoffman as Shifu, Angelina Jolie as Tigress, James Hong as Mr. Ping and all this rest, but this time around Po (Jack Black) must face a new enemy, Gary Oldman as Lord Shen. Po must also look into his own past and discover where he came from, and (Spoiler Alert) Po learns that he was adopted. As he searches for a way to vanquish his new foe, he must also learn to conquer his fears and confront his repressed memories. He and Lord Shen have crossed paths before, the key to his origins lie in this encounter.

Kung Fu Panda 2 has all the magic of a full-blown Chinese martial arts extravaganza. But as exciting and fun as these action sequences are, what really stood out for me was the animation. In the beginning of the film we are treated to a beautiful variation of ancient Chinese shadow puppets. This traditional and colorful art form sets up our story and then we move into the animation style that we are more familiar with from the first film. But this time around we are introduced to a third style. This appears in all the flash back sequences and I found the animation phenomenal.

I really enjoyed the variation of styles, especially when it imitated Asian techniques. As an adult it gave my mind something to wrap around and appreciate beyond the script. But even the story itself was weighty enough to satisfy a mature mind. Po came from a violent background and his nemesis shares his history. Shen grows up to be a villain bitter, evil and full of hate, whereas Po grows up to be cheerful, loving and willing to risk his life for his village. This is a story about rising above, friendship, and giving of yourself to others. It is a beautiful film both visually and in content. Children will enjoy it, Po is as amusing and funny as ever. And adults will love it too. It is the complete package, beautiful, sweet, funny, and full of action. Luckily for us it looks like Po will be back for more. Kung Fu Panda 3 is in our future.

Rating: First Run A beautiful film both visually and in content

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

2011-05-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

Pass the chalice mate; this old sea tale is in need of new life. Watching Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides I kept trying to remember what I loved about the first one. Back then everything was new, fresh and mystical fun, but Pirates of the Caribbean 4 has become stale, tired, and over blown. This version has added some new characters and has them searching for the fountain of youth. But not once was I carried away by the action. I actually found this film quite dull.

Johnny Depp's Jack Sparrow is still a fun character, but he’s best on the sidelines making snide remarks, ridiculing romance, and behaving in a supercilious manner. We love him best when he is mocking authority yet insisting on his own as captain. We also love him walking that tightrope between good and evil never quite knowing on which side he’ll land. But as the focal point in this film, Jack Sparrow is too much of a good thing. Especially when they try to make him the moral compass and give him a romantic foil in Penelope Cruz. Jack Sparrow is a blackguard and too self-involved for romance. And Penelope’s interpretation of a pirate queen was not sultry enough to invite it.

Ian McShane was born to play a pirate and I relished his evil sneer and menacing scowl, but every time he got whipped up into a murderous rage, he was pulled back and put in a position of compromise. I understand that his daughter was trying to save his soul and he was acting in deference to her, but come on. We never got to enjoy him in his blackest form. He is supposed to be beyond redemption, kind of like Captain Jack. I wanted to see him chew the scenery.

Each sequel has tried to capture the magic of the original and each one has left us wanting. Not one director has gotten the recipe right. They each promise us that they’ve worked it out; that this one will be the best one yet, but then we see it and go home disappointed. Maybe like Fast Five they’ll finally figure it out on the fifth one, but I for one am losing hope. I spent the entire movie asking myself why I wasn’t having a good time and I resented it even more because I paid full price. Overall I found Pirates 4 a big let down, you’ll really need to step it up to get me back again.

Rating: Second Run You will enjoy it most at a discount theatre

Beginners

2011-05-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

We go to school, watch television, read books and believe that these things inform us. But in truth, what really shapes our personality is our parents. We grow up reading them like a novel, watching them like a movie and through their example we learn about love, relationships and how to face the world. In Beginners, Ewan McGregor plays Oliver, a 38-year-old graphic artist who is still single having walked away or sabotaged any serious relationship he’s ever had. In childhood he always felt that his parents didn’t love each other, but after his mother’s death, 45 years into marriage, his father finally admits to him that he is gay. Oliver is astonished. Everything he thought he knew about his parents was a lie.

Christopher Plummer portrays Hal. When Hal came out of the closet at the age of 75 he stepped out proudly waving a rainbow flag. No longer having to consider his wife’s feelings (Mary Page Keller) he exercised his new freedom by joining the social scene, becoming politically active and even finding himself a younger boyfriend (Goran Visnjic). He grabbed life with both hands and was eager to make up for lost time, but the biggest transformation came within his relationship with his son. No longer hiding his true self Hal became open, honest and more willing to share his thoughts. Oliver was finally getting to know his dad.

Watching his father embrace life, especially his relationship with his new boyfriend he sees a happiness that he has never seen before. It causes him to reexamine his own life and question why he has trouble holding on to love. But five years after his dad comes out, Oliver is hit with another bombshell. His dad has stage four cancer. Oliver is devastated once again. This time he is losing a friend.

Beginners starts with the death of Hal and Oliver is clearing out the family home. As he packs up and sorts things out he is flooded with childhood memories. His mom’s presence is still there, as well as his dad’s. Hal had made many changes after her death but parts of their life are still there. As Oliver grieves he remembers things about them both but sees them with new eyes. The experiences that formed him are no longer valid. He must reevaluate his entire life.

Just as Oliver enters the deepest depression of his life and the only person he can talk to is his father’s dog, an amazing woman appears. They meet at a costume party and Anna (Melanie Laurent) immediately captures his heart. Anna sees through his façade and calls him out, not for being gay; buy for being sad and melancholy. He is smitten with her but is paralyzed by uncertainty. He needs to learn how to love again. When it comes to romance, he is now a beginner.

This beautiful, provocative movie is very personal for writer, director Mike Mills. It is based on his own life. I loved the structure of this film and found it a wonderful way to share a story. Starting at the end and flashing back, we see the moments and memories that bring us up to date and inform us on who Oliver is and what he is going through. We are also privy to Oliver’s current thoughts by viewing his artwork or listening to his musings. Each voiceover gives us a historical perspective as well as his personal insights. By starting at the end we are also returning to the beginning. And by following a beginning we are lead to an end. It may sound confusing but it is really a special film. I was never lost and found it completely fascinating. Ewan McGregor captivated me with his sensitive portrayal and I grew even more appreciative of Melanie Laurent. Christopher Plummer is especially memorable as a man of his time who hid his nature out of cultural necessity but never played the role of victim. And Goren Visnjic will surprise you as Hal’s male lover. The nuances in his character reveal to us the pain of being gay and also being rejected by those you love. Hal took the risk and was rewarded; it is time for Oliver to take the risk now. He has a chance at love and cannot let the past define him. After all, the past was a lie.

Rating: First Run A story about parents and how they define us

Everything Must Go

2011-05-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

Will Ferrell is Nick Halsey, a guy who is having the worst day of his life. He has just been fired from his job and when he gets home the locks have been changed, his wife is gone and all of his possessions are on the front lawn. Breaking his sobriety, Nick plops himself into an easy chair, pops open a beer, and tries to drink away his troubles. But when the morning automatic sprinklers come on, Nick has to take action. The problem is, he doesn’t. Nick Halsey has hit rock bottom.

When the neighbors start to complain that a man is living on his front lawn, the police, seeing he is drunk, try to arrest him. But to keep from being hauled in, Nick drops the name of his police detective AA sponsor (Michael Pena). Detective Garcia buys Nick some time by evoking a city ordinance that says a homeowner may have a garage sale for no more than four consecutive days. This gives Nick until Saturday. If he isn’t gone by then, Garcia himself will arrest him.

With the help of a neighborhood kid, Nick begins sorting out his life by sorting out his things. Kenny (Christopher Jordan Wallace) is his sounding board as well as a new sympathetic neighbor (Rebecca Hall) who has just moved in across the street. Nick must re-evaluate his priorities and take a closer look at what his possession are worth. In the process he discovers much more. Every knick-knack, souvenir or collectible has a meaning or a story for him, it is time to divest and travel lighter.

Will Ferrell is playing it straight here and even though there are touches of humor this is a dramatic role. Not only is Will Ferrell proving himself to be adept in this part he turns in some very nice nuanced scenes. Whether it is acting opposite Laura Dern, Rebecca Hall or young Christopher Jordan Wallace, Ferrell is able to evoke pathos, empathy and an I’ve been there smile. He’s everyman here and shows he’s capable of pulling off a dramatic role. Everything Must Go is worth a look.

Rating: First Run Will Ferrell proves he can handle drama

Exporting Raymond

2011-05-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

If you’ve ever gone to another country and turned on the TV then you know what it’s like to see an American Sit-com dubbed in a foreign language. It is a strange and hilarious experience. A lot of what people know about us comes from these television shows and that can be very frightening. But lately there has been a new trend. Instead of dubbing an existing show, television companies are now buying the rights, casting local actors and re-filming the entire show in their native language. This is the premise for the documentary Exporting Raymond.

In Exporting Raymond, Phil Rosenthal is hired by Sony Television to go to Russia and assist in the casting and adaptation of his top American show, Everybody Loves Raymond. The result is unbelievable. As writer Phil Rosenthal not only has to adjust to Russian culture but deal with Russian executives as well. And we thought our network suits were tough.

In Russia Phil not only struggles with the language barrier he also must learn that funny doesn’t always translate. This documentary is a study in compromise as well as international relations. Not only is it amusing and entertaining it also gives us an insight into our own culture. In addition we get to meet Phil Rosenthal’s parents who are the inspiration for Ray’s mom and dad. Those scenes alone are worth the price of admission.

If you are interested in television at all this documentary is a must see. Just watching the casting process is a real eye-opener. Also as a social experiment it is fascinating to see how Russia is trying to change and grow after the fall of communism. Their new self-image is very important to them, which is in direct conflict with making comedy. In comedy we make fun of ourselves and that is real tricky when a nation is trying to rebuild its self-esteem.

This documentary works on so many levels that it is a real treat. Through it you’ll learn about pop culture, Britney Spears, international travel, Russian television burnout and why no one is interested in kid-napping Phil Rosenthal. With Exporting Raymond you’ll get a real insight into how television works. It is after all an international phenomenon and by all accounts the sit-com is here to stay.

Rating: First Run A hilarious look into pop culture

Earthwork

2011-05-11T17:15:00.000-07:00

Some say that artists have their head in the clouds but for Stan Herd that would be quite the advantage. A third generation Kansas farmer, Stan has pioneered a new art form known as representational crop art, or Earthwork. Using the tools that he grew up with Stan began manipulating the earth to create pictures that can only be viewed from the air. Struggling for years to bring attention to his art Stan put in a bid to do an Earthwork project on a vacant lot in New York City owned by Donald Trump. Not wanting to lose the opportunity to another artist Stan Herd agreed to do the project for free using his own funds and putting his family in tremendous debt. The film Earthwork chronicles this monumental undertaking and the emotional toll it took on his family. It also shows how the community was impacted by this ambitious project.

In the past year I’ve seen several movies that centered on non-traditional artists such as Wasteland and Exit Through The Gift Shop. But as great as these films are, by making Stan Herd’s story a dramatic film rather than a documentary you are able to experience his emotional journey as well as his artistic one. Earthwork not only documents John’s struggle, but it shows us the impact that his work had on the street people who squatted on the land and lived in the tunnels near-by. This is something that would not have been possible in a straightforward documentary. I believe that telling Stan’s story in this way was the best choice and Oscar nominated actor John Hawkes is wonderful in the role.

When Stan produces his art he tills, rakes and plows the soil to create texture and then adds plants, rocks and other natural materials for color and shade. From the ground you cannot see the result, but from the air everything takes form. In the telling of this story we are right there with Stan in this vacant lot scratching and digging to achieve some distant goal. With every set back we feel his pain, and with every friend he makes we feel his humanity. But like the people of New York we have to wait until the end to see the final result. The reveal is breath taking and I am now very much a fan of his art. I hope one day to meet Stan Herd or better yet fly over his work. What a phenomenal inspirational man he is and what a tremendous awe-inspiring concept. I highly recommend this film.

Rating: Must See A look into the heart of an artist and why we do what we do

Poetry

2011-05-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

A sweet, quiet, soft-spoken grandmother devotes her time to caring for her grandson and working as a maid for an elderly stroke victim. But when it is revealed to her by a doctor that she is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s she decides to do something for herself and enrolls in a class to learn how to write poetry. As a young Korean school girl a teacher once told her that she had the soul of a poet. She sees beauty in everything and even treats her body like a canvas always dressing with refinement and color. The idea of being a poet pleases her and she wants desperately to learn how to write a poem.

Once in her poetry class Mija becomes very frustrated trying to discover where poetic inspiration comes from. She begins carrying a notepad around with her and meticulously writes down ideas and phrases. But when it comes to writing a poem of her own she is unable to tap into her poetic heart. She begins to go to poetry readings and even forms relationships with other writers, yet her own poem still eludes her.

One day her spoiled and belligerent grandson becomes even more moody and starts staying out late with his friends. She attempts to rein him in but he is the master of the house and knows it. In her demure playful way she tries to cajole him into submission but she is losing her hold over him. Jongwook is growing up fast and his friend’s influence is strengthening. Mija is losing control over her grandson and her life.

Mija is working hard to hide the effects of Alzheimer’s from her grandson and her friends but when Jongwook is caught up in the gang-rape and suicide of a female classmate, she is thrust into an emotional situation and the necessity of meeting with the other boy’s fathers. The men agree to pay the girl’s family off in order to keep the scandal secret but Mija’s poetic spirit is too empathetic towards the girl’s mother. As she struggles to come to terms with her grandson’s act and the need to raise money to absolve him, her whole demeanor changes. Finding beauty is suddenly more difficult; she is now facing a very ugly world.

Very few Korean films make it to the United States so I am unfamiliar with the actress playing Mija (Jeong-hie Yun) but she is lovely. I was completely mesmerized by her and her performance was a poem within itself. Even with subtitles I was fully immersed in her plight and understood all her varying emotions. In the midst of this ugly situation you could still feel the beauty of her spirit. Poetry treads lightly with a very heavy subject. It is a beautiful film with a portrayal that haunts me. It is a story that I’ll remember for some time.

Rating: First Run A beautiful poetic performance by Jeong-hie Yun

Fast Five

2011-05-05T19:08:00.000-07:00

Fast Five is off the hook. Taking the best from all the previous Fast and Furious films we have been reunited with our favorites Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Jordana Brewster in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. On the wrong side of the law they are meeting up after Dominic’s successful escape from a prison transport bus. Paul Walker’s agent Brian Cooper has chosen love over duty and he and Mia are now as wanted as Dominic Toretto. Special Agent Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) has been sent by the FBI to track them down, meanwhile they are looking to do one last score so that they can evade capture and spend the rest of their lives in a non-extradition country.

The job they plan on pulling is stealing from the city’s biggest crime boss known as Reyes (Joaquim de Almeida). To do this they assemble the best team they can which includes characters from all the previous Fast & Furious films such as Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Sung Kang, and many more. Vince (Matt Schulze) has already been hiding in Brazil. He provides the initial safe house but after a deal goes wrong and they become enemies of Reyes, there is enough doubt and suspicion to cause an old wound to reopen. When you add in Reyes’ henchmen and The Rock’s Special Ops team, there is a lot of tension to go around. The job they plan on pulling passes from impossible and leads into Crazyland. This film is really insane.

With out giving anything away, in Fast Five you will experience action, precision driving, explosions, heavy weaponry and an exciting fight going mano y mano with Vin Diesel and The Rock. If that’s not enough the film climaxes with the craziest stunt I ever seen in a movie. And it is not just a cool stunt that you see once and then it’s done, this gimmick goes on and on blowing your mind all along the way. As you sit there in amazement marveling at the sheer audacity of it all you find yourself thrilled to no end.

Fast Five is a completely satisfying popcorn movie and is a wonderful tribute to all the proceeding Fast & Furious films. It even sets us up for a Fast and Furious Six. And the premiss is amazing. What a fun film and a great way to kick off the summer. The gang is back and they are faster than ever. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Rating: First Run Bring you the best of all the Fast & Furious films

There Be Dragons

2011-05-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

In 2002 Pope John Paul II canonized a priest by the name of Josemaria Escriva. Dubbed “the saint of the ordinary” Escriva started an organization known as Opus Dei (Latin for “Work of God”). Starting with just three men and enduring through the Spanish Civil War when priests were shot on sight, membership now consists of over 90,000 members worldwide. Escriva’s vision was that every man and women in their ordinary tasks of life are capable of representing Christ’s love to one another. The mission of Opus Dei is to help ordinary people turn their work and daily activities into opportunities for growing closer to God, serving others and improving society.

The revolutionary idea of Opus Dei came in a time of civil unrest, when a war was being fought not over land or property but over ideals. Fascism and Communism was challenging the status quo ripping families apart and setting brother against brother. In the middle of all this was a young priest speaking of faith, love and serving others.

To bring this story to us, Roland Joffe (The Mission) has combined historical events with a fictional tale to illustrate the scope of this man’s monumental deeds. In There Be Dragons, Dougray Scott plays a writer named Robert who comes to Spain to do research for his book on the famed priest. When he discovers that his estranged father came from the same small village as Josemaria, Robert seeks out his father, played by Wes Bentley, to get more information about Escriva as a young man. His father Manolo, who fought in the Civil War, never shared his memories of that time, but suddenly he’s willing to talk. In revealing how he and Josemaria chose different paths, Manolo is not only able to unburden himself of a guilty past, but reconnect with his son as well.

Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War There Be Dragons follows the lives of these two childhood friends. Manolo, who is acting as a fascist spy infiltrating the communist party and Josemaria, a priest driven underground by hatred against the church. Also involved in this story is a charismatic communist leader named Oriol, played by Rodrigo Santoro. Manolo is smitten with a beautiful freedom fighter, but Iidiko (Olga Kurylenko) is enamored with Oriol. Manolo’s jealousy over the charismatic Oriol has him making some very poor decisions. On top of that is his hatred of the Communist Party. Their organization efforts lead to his father’s death and the destruction of their family’s business. Manolo is a angry young man. On the other side of the coin is Josemaria who spends his life serving God, holding mass and taking confession in secret while caring for the poor. Two boys from the same small village could not have turned out any more different.

When the film about Josemaria Escriva was first begun it was intended as a bio-pic, but when Roland Joffe came aboard he really wanted to show the magnitude and the scope of what Escriva was up against. There was such a backlash against the Catholic church that priests were being murdered and churches were being destroyed. Yet out of this, one man following the voice of God begins a simple straightforward mission that has thrived and lasted longer than the heyday of Fascism and Communism both. Charlie Cox, who portrays Josemaria Escriva plays him as a man full of love and compassion. He is fierce in his conviction, but he struggles with his anger over what is going on and the injustices taking place. By giving his anger to God and devoting himself to prayer he is able to lead by example inspiring a core group of men and women who spread his message all over the world.

Josemaria’s accomplishments are very inspiring and Roland Joffe has provided a dramatic stage to share this man’s story. His life is presented in a straight forward matter and the religious aspects are underplayed. Wes Bentley has the undaunting task of playing Manolo as both a young man and as an aged father alone with his bitter memories. But I believe that Charlie Cox has the toughest job. How do you portray a young man who grows up to be a saint? Luckily Charlie Cox got to view a lot of footage showing Escriva speaking in front of a crowd. He was known to be warm, funny and very much a man of the people. In that, Charlie Cox got it right.

Rating: First Run Get to know the people's saint

Water for Elephants

2011-05-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

I’m a sucker for circus stories and Water for Elephants, based on the best selling novel by Sara Gruen, is fairly faithful to the book. It is a classic romance set in a Depression era circus. Overall I liked the film but for me there were two major weaknesses. One, the chemistry between Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon. Their relationship needed to be so hot it would ignite the big top. They needed to spark, to visibly exude sex. Their passion, though never acted on, needed to drive a powerful man into jealous rage. In this film the romance was a little too PG-13.

Secondly, the stakes needed to be higher. For the people in this circus, things were life and death. Combining two characters for the film Christoph Waltz plays both the animal trainer and the owner of the circus. He is subject to giant mood swings, fits of violence, and yet can be very charming and tender. He’s like nuzzling a lion; you enjoy the attention but always keep your eyes on his claws. You put up with the abuse because you have no where else to go. I wanted to see more desperation.

When you travel with a circus, especially during hard times, the circus is your home. It feeds you, shelters you, and in exchange, works you to the bone. But for one brief moment, under the big top, everything is magic, glamour and excitement. The film alludes to this, but I wanted to see more juxtaposition. I wanted to see a love so strong that our hero would risk death. And I wanted a threat so menacing that it would make me squirm. These were violent men, men that would throw you off a moving train if you couldn’t pull your weight, men that would toss you off a train rather than pay you. I wanted to see those extremes, I wanted more contrast. This movie should have gone for the R rating.

The circus is a wonderful setting for a love story. It is a community so close-knit that it has its own language and code of justice. For an outsider to be let in is one thing, to have an insider break the code is another. I totally believed Reese Witherspoon as an orphan who allowed herself to be seduced by the glamorous commanding Waltz. Her love of horses and intuition turned her into a circus star and Waltz was just one more animal she learned how to tame. As mean as he could get, there was real affection there and in most cases she could always soothe him. That’s why this young man needed to be someone really special. Someone worth betraying your husband for. I would have like to have seen more of that from Robert Pattinson.

I enjoyed the look of this film and savored every period detail, but I also think that the film played it safe. I would have loved to see more of the circus folks and a little more circus culture. We needed to see something redeeming about circus life worth staying for. The film begins with an old man so crazy about the circus that he runs away from his nursing home. By the end of the film we should know why. Water for Elephants is a handsome looking film, but in Jacob’s eyes the circus was beautiful. Maybe we should have seen more from his perspective. Despite everything he never really left. He always kept his love for the circus and Marlena.

Rating: Second Run Pachyderms and passion under the big top

The Conspirator

2011-04-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Every February, children all across the United States learn about Abraham Lincoln. We learn that he was the 16th president; that he was born in a log cabin, and was a lawyer before he entered politics. We are also taught that he hated slavery and fought to keep the country together during the War Between the States. But unless you go on to college and study history this is the extent of your knowledge, you never really get to know what he meant to the country at the time. That’s why films like The Conspirator are so important.

When Abraham Lincoln was assassinated just before the conclusion of the Civil War, the country reeled. It was just as inconceivable and shocking to them as 9/11 was to us. The Secretary of War (Kevin Kline) was so intent on bringing swift justice that he vigorously pursued the collaborators and tried them in military court. One of these alleged collaborators was Mary Surratt (Robin Wright) a widow and mother.

Mary Surratt was a southerner who ran a boarding house. Her son John (Johnny Simmons) was a known confederate of John Wilkes Booth (Toby Kebbell) and based on proximity alone she was arrested. Like the Patriot Act is sometimes used today her rights were circumvented and she appealed to a well-known southern senator (Tom Wilkinson) for help. He in turned enlisted the assistance of a Union war hero (James McAvoy). This young officer was recently discharged for wounds received in action and was now returning to his law practice. He wanted nothing to do with this case, but after meeting the client and seeing how much her rights were being violated, his love of the law overcame his resentment and bitterness towards the south.

As directed by Robert Redford there are a lot of parallels between what happened then and what is happening now. Like Gautama Bay, anyone associated with the assassination attempt was thrown into prison without counsel until the military was ready to prosecute. According to the film, one detail that surprised and shocked me was that the actors in the play were arrested too. Just because they were there and some of them knew Booth as an actor they were suspected too. And another fact that was ignored during my grade school education was that Lincoln was not the only target. Three assignation attempts were made that night. This was a major plot.

The Conspirator is an excellent film in and of itself. The acting is great and the subject matter is compelling. But what makes this film even greater is that is will enlighten you as well. After seeing this movie I have become intrigued and want to learn more about that night. That is the sign of a good movie. You carry it with you and think about it long after. There is so much more to Abraham Lincoln than what we learned in elementary school. This film just scratches the surface. What an exciting provocative story. And as far as its parallels as to what is happening today, I only hope that we have more people like Frederick Aiken. I challenge you to read his defense of Mary Surratt and not be moved. (http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/lincolnconspiracy/defenseofsurratt.html)

Rating: First Run An important film in many ways

Wrecked

2011-04-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

A man opens his eyes (Adrien Brody) and he finds himself at the bottom of a ravine. He is strapped to his seat by a seatbelt and he is in tremendous pain. Through the broken glass he blinks and attempts to focus, another man lies dead just beyond in the woods. He must have gone through the windshield. As his gaze now travels to the rearview mirror, the man is shocked by what he sees. Not only is his face cut and bruised, the man does not recognize himself, nor does he remember his name or how he got there. There is another dead body in the backseat. The man groans and passes out.

When the man awakens again, he tries to take inventory of his situation. He is thirsty, hungry, in pain and cold. His vision is compromised and his memory is still gone. He tries to free himself but he is trapped. His leg is pinned by the dashboard. He tries to pull it out but he doesn’t have the strength. Then he spots a piece of candy on the floor. He reaches for it but it is just beyond his grasp. In frustration he slams his body against the passenger side door. No luck, he sleeps again. Who is he and how did he get there?

As we journey with this solitary man in and out of consciousness, we struggle with him to discover the truth of his puzzling situation. His memory comes back in little flashes, but his mind is also playing tricks on him. At times he is delirious, at other times he dreams. What is real, what is fantasy, and why has no one come? Both the man and the viewer are in the dark. Together we will solve this mystery.

Wrecked is a fascinating tale of survival by first-time feature director Michael Greenspan. Like 127 Hours the story revolves around a solitary man trapped in a confining situation, but unlike that movie we know nothing about this man or how he got there. Like a film noir, there is a sinister element here, and a dark menacing quality. Should we care about this character or has he gotten what he deserves? Your eyes will search for every detail.

This film is executed with a languid pace, yet it draws you in and can be very thrilling. It is hard to describe the myriad of emotions that you will be going through without giving any of the story away. Suffice it to say that if you enjoy mysteries, puzzles and the fine acting of Adrien Brody, then you’ll love this film. I was fascinated throughout and found the film very exciting. I look forward to what this director will do next.

Rating: First Run An excellent and moody thriller

Soul Surfer

2011-04-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

When you are too close to something it is hard to see things clearly, but when you take a step back and gain some perspective, suddenly things make sense. This is the basic message in Soul Surfer and it tells the story of Bethany Hamilton, a champion surfer who gained international attention when a shark bit off her left arm. With the help of a healthy attitude, a loving family, hard work and an abiding faith, Bethany summands the courage to return to the water and become a professional surfer.

Soul Surfer is a faith-based film but it tries so hard to be mainstream that in the beginning I found it bland and watered down. But somewhere in the middle it found its emotional footing and ended up being a decent film. I just wish it could have been stronger from the beginning. Bethany’s recovery was so quick and her success is so amazing that we take for granted all the pain, doubts and insecurities she went through. Faith is a gift, but it must be exercised. I’m afraid that sometimes the film made it look too easy.

Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt play a surfing couple that raised their family on the beach in Hawaii. Bethany portrayed by AnnaSophia Robb started surfing at an early age and won her first competition at age eight. At age thirteen and about to go pro, Bethany loses her arm, but within a month, she is back on her surfboard and the following year wins her first national championship.

Bethany Hamilton wrote a book about her life, which is fairly straightforward and talks a lot about her Christian faith, but in the film director Sean McNamara when out of his way to find conflict within the family in order to add edge to the production and make it more accessible to a secular audience. But the truth is that this is a Christian family with Christian values and it is this foundation and faith that gives them the strength to endure through this situation. I’m not going to call it a tragedy, because I don’t believe the family ever saw it that way. The fact that their daughter and sister was still alive was a miracle. Learning to live life without an arm was just a challenge.

The film alludes to this by the behavior and attitudes portrayed by the family in the film. Of course there were doubts, flare-ups, and cross words, even Bethany lost her footing a few times, but that is the beauty of the film. The family talked it out, reached out to each other and accepted the support system within their church. They even had a support system within the surfing community. Bethany did not have to go through this alone.

Carrie Underwood makes her film debut as Bethany’s youth pastor and she is an example of someone outside the family that Bethany could share her pain and mis-givings with. The parents had a doctor friend, Craig T. Nelson and Bethany’s surfing coach Kevin Sorbo. All these people contributed to Bethany’s recovery, but I’m sure that Bethany’s relationship with Jesus Christ played the strongest part. Her poise and positive attitude literally saved her life, but it is her faith and courage that got her back on that surfboard. To paraphrase Bethany, “I have learned to embrace more things with one arm than I could ever have with two.” This is a film about victory and a remarkable young woman.

Rating: Bargain Matinee A film about faith and courage

Hop

2011-03-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

As an adult the idea of going to see an animated film mixed with live action starring the Easter Bunny and a bunch of yellow chicks was pretty low down on my to do list. But after seeing Universal Studios’ Hop I’m ready to jump on the bandwagon and tell you, you must see this film. Hop is terrific. With a smart script, witty dialogue, charming performances and a Willy Wonka-esque atmosphere, Hop is going to become a perennial Easter favorite.

Beginning on Easter Island, E.B. voiced by Russell Brand is poised to inherit the title of Easter Bunny succeeding his father played by Hugh Laurie. But E.B. has other plans. His dream is to be a drummer so he runs away and heads for Hollywood. Here he is destined to cross paths with Fred O’Hare (James Marsden) who is being pressured by his father (Gary Cole) to live up to his expectations. After a rocky start, Fred agrees to help E.B. and these two kindred spirits learn a lesson in responsibility.

Director Tim Hill has done a wonderful job guiding the delicate balance between the animation and live action sequences. With James Marsden’s commitment to the process you believe the relationship between these two. Russell Brand’s voice work is equally important and when you add in the rest of the cast, you have a truly delightful film.

Every good film needs a good villain and in Hop we have Carlos, the Easter Bunny’s second in command. Tired of being number two, Carlos, voiced by Hank Azaria, wants to be number one. When E.B. runs away he plots to take his place, if not by persuasion, then by force. Imagine a fat diabolical chick with hundreds of chick minions and you’ll get the idea. This film is funny and refreshingly original.

Rounding out the cast of Hop is Kaley Cuoco as Fred’s sister, Elizabeth Perkins as Fred’s mom and Tiffany Espersen as Fred’s adopted little sister. The entire cast is rising to the occasion on this one and even David Hasselhoff puts in a wonderful performance satirizing himself. But the real star here is James Marsden. His reactions and connection to the animated E.B. make the entire film. Like his role in Enchanted his innocence allows you to follow him down this rabbit hole. We believe because he does. And I believe that James is a treasure.

Rating: Must See You must hop on down and see it

Paul

2011-03-28T20:08:00.000-07:00

I think that Shaun of the Dead is brilliant and I loved Hot Fuzz so I went to see Paul full of eager anticipation, but I have to say that I was a little disappointed. The relationship between Pegg and Frost, that we’ve grown to love was reduced to a running Gay joke. Also, there was an underlying bitterness in the film that I’ve never seen in their other work. I was perplexed why they were bashing rednecks and fundamental Christians. I am going to blame the tone on the director Greg Mottola. Their films with Edgar Wright were much more sweeter.

Paul tells the story of two British pals who take a dream vacation to visit Comic-Con and then drive cross-country visiting famous alien hot spots. The Comic-Con sequences were kind of fun, but there is so much comedic gold there that you feel cheated when they move on so quickly. When they take to the road their first stop is at Vasquez Rocks and then they head east to Nevada. By the time they reach New Mexico they have met Paul, a true alien who has made a break from Area 51 and is trying to get home.

Graeme and Clive react to Paul with shock and disbelief, but when Paul helps Graeme carry his unconscious friend back into the RV, Paul confides in Graeme and he consents to help him. The trick now is to persuade Clive. As far as aliens go, Paul is a bit of a jerk. He smokes, swears, drops trou and is overall very arrogant. But like all road trips, everyone learns to appreciate each other and becomes a little more tolerant by the end.

Along the road, the guys are being chased by a man in black (Jason Bateman), two F.B.I. agents, (Bill Hader and Joe Lo Truglio) and the father of a girl they took with them (John Carroll Lynch). The girl, portrayed by Kristin Wiig, has grown up in the middle of nowhere and thinks that Paul is a demon. When Paul releases her from her sheltered religious up bringing by filling her brain with the knowledge of the world, her first act is to take up swearing, a strange choice considering the options.

The rest of the film is evading capture and trying to get Paul home, but I feel that this film missed the mark. There is so much comic material that was thrown away to concentrate on car chases and blowing things up. The American road, especially the Southwest is full of bizarre tourist spots and roadside attractions. The film barely touches on those and as far as film references go, there is so much that was left out. If I were doing this film I would have waited a little longer before finding Paul. As funny as Seth Rogen is as the voice of Paul I think the film would have been better with more Frost and Pegg. Nice try, but this film goes on the bottom of my list, it is now my 3rd favorite Frost and Pegg film.

Rating: Bargain Matinee Not my favorite Frost and Pegg film

Potiche

2011-03-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

In a small provincial town in 1970’s France, a factory owner’s trophy wife must take over the business when her husband has a heart attack. Her family laughs when the idea is suggested; mom has never worked a day in her life. But as the daughter of the factory founder, Suzanne (Catherine Deneuve) has been visiting the umbrella factory since she was a little girl. Cheerful, bright and extremely observant, Suzanne has paid close attention.

The source of Robert’s frustration (Fabrice Luchini) and the cause of his heart attack was a general strike, and struggling finances. Whenever Suzanne attempted to offer advice she was quickly shot down and put in her place. But now in the driver’s seat Suzanne takes charge, introduces new products, brings her children in as employees, and settles the strike. In three months she completely turns the company around winning the confidence of the board and earning the trust of the workers.

When her ungrateful husband returns from a convalescent cruise to reclaim his position he becomes jealous of Suzanne’s success and plots to kick her out. But she is not the same woman she was before. Suzanne fights to maintain control and prove that she is more than just a housewife. She refuses to go back to the way things were and she is hoping that everyone else will support her.

Presented with humor, Potiche tells the story of the women’s movement and highlights the worker’s plight at the same time. Gerard Depardieu plays the mayor and a union sympathizer and he and Suzanne have a past. In his youth, he worked for Suzanne’s father, and he and Suzanne have an intimate connection. He is excited about Suzanne’s new outlook but she isn’t ready to go from serving one man to serving another. It is her time and she is going to take it, for once she is ahead of her time.

Rating: First Run Catherine Deneuve as a woman ahead of her time

Queen To Play

2011-03-28T19:39:00.000-07:00

A sultry couple sits on the balcony playing chess under the morning Corsican sun. Not hearing the knock, the chambermaid enters and is surprised to discover them there. The lady is wearing a negligee and she shows no signs of modesty. The gentleman is dressed and encourages the maid to go ahead and clean the room. As they continue to play they hold hands, drink wine, and gaze loving at each other. Then the lady beats him while the gentleman crosses to the railing to take in the view and contemplate his loss. The lady enters inside and helps herself to a cigarette. She is beautiful, sexy and very alluring.

Helene, the maid (Sandrine Bonnaire) is intrigued by this mysterious woman, but even more so she is fascinated by the game of chess. Having come to this island as a young woman in marriage she now finds her life very dull. Her teenage daughter is embarrassed by her occupation and her husband is taking her for granted. He often leaves her home alone while he goes off to play backgammon with a friend. Helene is looking for something to wake her up.

As a second job Helene cleans house for an expatriate American (Kevin Kline). While dusting she discovers his chess set and cannot resist the urge to examine it. When her employer catches her with the set she boldly asks him to teach her the game. Reluctantly he agrees and their weekly lessons turn into a friendship.

As Helene spends more and more time at the Kroger house the village suspects that she is having an affair, little do they know that she has fallen in love with the game of chess. It permeates her entire life as she tries to understand the intricacies of the game. Queen to Play is a story about female empowerment. It shows how even housewives need intellectual stimulation and that every woman, no matter who she is, needs some little passion to call her own.

I loved this quiet film. Sandrine Bonnaire is exquisite as an unobtrusive housewife slowly evolving into a confident woman of her own. It is feminist, but not in a brash audacious way. It is a personal film about a woman discovering her worth and the people who love her coming to terms with it. Kevin Kline is also lovely as a widower who has locked him self away in grief. In his first French-speaking role, Kevin displays a layered performance which contains melancholy, sorrow, disdain, and a touch of paternal pride. The two of them together are touching. Add in the lovely location and this film is like a vacation for the mind, restful, yet still challenging. This is a mature love story and one you won’t want to miss.

Rating: First Run Your best move is to see this film

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick Rules

2011-03-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

If you are a teenage boy, in a band, and trying to look cool for the ladies, the last thing you need is to be seen with your middle school age younger brother, or worse yet, your parents. In Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick Rules, this is exactly Roderick’s problem. Greg (Zachary Gordon) has survived 6th grade and he, Rowley, Fregley, Patty, and Chirag are all being reunited at a “Welcome to Middle School” skating party. The whole Heffley family is going and Roderick (Devon Bostick) is not pleased. He intends on sharing his embarrassment by tormenting his little brother.

At the skating party Greg sees Holly Hills (Peyton List) for the very first time and for him it is love at first sight. But according to Chirag, who has “Googled her”, she is totally out of his league. Greg doesn’t care though. If he is going to have a chance it’s got to be now before the new pecking order of 7th grade is determined. Too bad Roderick has noticed the attraction; his plan is to make Greg as miserable as he is.

When the boys begin bickering, to the point of an actual fistfight, Mom (Rachel Harris) and Dad (Steve Zahn) lay down the law. Susan Heffley has been writing an advice column for mothers and she can’t very well continue with her own house in disorder. So, she forces Greg and Roderick to spend time together and through the process things escalate. But this is a family movie so things work out in the end. The fun is watching what goes wrong in the meantime.

I really enjoyed the chemistry between Zachary Gordon and Devon Bostick. They display that brotherly dynamic and illustrate how a few years can really make a difference. Their relationship is the heart of the film and it’s nice to see two brothers grow, change, and learn how to appreciate each other. As far as Greg’s friends, they get less screen time in this sequel, but once again Rowley turns out to be the hero. When he decides to take up magic for the local talent show, Greg is mortified and tries to distance himself. But Rowley, always true to himself, perseveres and in a pinch he turns out to be the real party animal. Greg can learn a lot from Rowley.

The other thing that I like about these films is that they are age appropriate. The crush between Greg and Holly Hills is sweet and chaste, and the sibling rivalry between Roderick and Greg is believable. In this world Greg can still have a sleep over and have it not be weird. And when the boys throw a party when their parents aren’t home, they are still serving cola with no signs of cigarettes or drugs. This is a sanitized world, one that is nice to escape to. Not the world I live in, but one that is nice to visit. Diary of a Wimpy Kid is good for the entire family. Even adults will like this one.

Rating: First Run The gang’s all here and in 7th grade

The Lincoln Lawyer

2011-03-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

Matthew McConaughey is back as a slick, fast-talking, honey-voiced officer of the court in The Lincoln Lawyer. This is the persona that made him a star, although this time around his lawyer is a bit of a player. Since the majority of his clients are guilty he has no problem taking advantage of them financially, but he draws the line legally. What lets him sleep at night, representing the underbelly of society, is his belief in the justice system. If the law is doing their job, his clients will get the best possible defense, but if they are convicted, it is because they are guilty and all the rules were followed. When Mick Haller represents you and the cops or the D.A. makes a mistake, Mick Haller will find it and set you free. It’s all about the law.

Losing his driver’s license due to a D.U.I. Mick Haller has been doing business out of the back seat of a classic Lincoln Continental. He, and his discreet driver (Laurence Mason) make quite a sight when they pull up to take meetings with their less than upstanding clients. This arrangement has become so advantageous for Mick that he’s really starting to like it. He has become a multi-tasker and with the help of his private investigator (William H. Macy) he can cover a lot of territory while he rides in style.

Our story starts when an associate of Mick’s, bail-bondsman Val Valenzuela (John Leguizamo) tips off Mick to a big money client. Val is hoping for a kickback and the chance to post the lucrative bond. Mick meets the client, gets him bail and agrees to take the case, much against the advice of his prosecuting lawyer ex-wife (Marisa Tomei). The client is a rich, Beverly Hills pretty boy (Ryan Phillippe) who works for his mom’s real estate business. Frances Fisher plays his mother and she turns out to be rich and very connected.

Mick has already done wonders with the case, getting him bail on a violent crime was actually impressive, but he’s a little unsure why the family’s lawyer is not handling the case. Mick knows how good he is, but his clients are not usually the rich and famous. These questions begin to nag at him and the more he discovers, the more questions are raised. Mick is beginning to think that his client is really guilty.

Since innocence has never been a prerequisite for Mick he continues with the case, but his entire belief system is being put to the test. Ryan Phillippe gets the chance to play a real sociopath here and as the truth becomes known, Mick finds himself trapped by the very law he has sworn to uphold. The question is, who is smarter, a sick game playing murderer, or a manipulative, street-smart lawyer? This is a character that could spawn a franchise; the question is will this case change his ways and will he continue to be the Lincoln lawyer?

Rating: First Run Matthew McConaughey is back as a slick, fast-talking, honey-voiced lawyer.

Monogamy

2011-03-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

A wedding photographer who makes just enough to get by, creates a second job in order to make more money. He has always been fascinated by the real stories that pictures tell by the studying the background, body language and expressions of the subjects in them. His new business, called Gumshoot, is a service where people contract him to photograph them in public places without his presence being known. The idea is to see what you look like in candid moments, to see yourself in your own environment and how others in that environment react to you.

Theo’s (Chris Messina) new business is picking up, and as he and his live-in girlfriend get ready for their own impending wedding, Theo begins to fixate over other people’s wedding photos and how they relate to each other. He is looking for that certain something that shows when a couple is truly in love. Meanwhile, Nat (Rashinda Jones) is having her own fixations. She begins reading into everything that Theo does.

In his Gumshoot business, clients contact Theo via the Internet with a time and place to meet and what they are wearing. Theo will then photograph them in secret and process a series of proof sheets. Next they will meet in person and Theo will help the subject pick their best photos and point out things that the background says about them. When a new client contacts him, Subgirl (Meital Dohan) shocks Theo by doing some very private things in very public places.

This bold, daring blonde mystifies Theo. While entranced in her photographic shots, Nat walks in behind him and he blushes. Nat knew about the shoot upfront, but neither she nor Theo knew that the subject would be so titillating. Both try to be cool, but seeds of doubt arise. Nat wonders why Theo is so obsessed with this woman and Theo wonders why Nat keeps pulling away.

Monogamy focuses on how our bodies always tell the truth. Our words may say one thing, while our faces, eyes and body language may say another. The problem is we don’t always know why, so reading into things may get us into trouble. This film is about truth, lies and photography. It is also about communication and what makes a couple work. It is a fascinating character study and brings up some interesting ideas. How much do we really know about each other?

Rating: First Run Our bodies always tell the truth

Jane Eyre

2011-03-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

There are countless interpretations of Jane Eyre; the first silent film was shot in 1915. Yet, it fascinates me how each director picks and chooses what scenes they want to include and what chapters they feel are expendable. With the exception of some television series, each one must trim this epic story to make it fit in theatrical length. Up and coming director Cary Kukunaga chose to shorten Jane’s growing up period and he spent the largest amount of time at Thronwood.

What I liked the most about this Jane Eyre was the articulate script by Moira Buffini and the way that the environment became another character. Between the cinematography of Adriano Goldman, and the wonderfully authentic locations, this Jane Eyre had a decidedly Gothic feel and a elegant solitary essence. The light and shadow enhanced the emotional tone of what was happening in the scene and the original score completed the experience.

Many young actors have taken on the roles of Jane and Rochester over the years and it’s difficult to make these characters your own especially when so many adaptations have been done. However, Mia Wasikowska has done a fine job with Jane and Michael Fassbinder is sure to break out soon as a major star. But for me the actor that made the biggest impression was Jamie Bell. I loved the nuances he had in his character, upright and pious on one hand, yet smoldering underneath. When his sisters go off and leave him alone with Jane Eyre, there exists an air of danger; will his religious convictions stay his obvious attraction? And when he offers his hand in marriage it is hard to know which side of him is speaking, the kind generous benefactor, or the husbandly tyrant. I really think that Jamie Bell captured this Victorian man beautifully.

If I have any complaints about this film is that the romantic element was not as prevalent as other versions. You feel Rochester’s need to connect with Jane, and you feel Jane’s reluctance to open her heart. But when a rival appears Jane’s jealously is so tamped down that she looks like she is in pain instead of heartbroken. I also felt that the attraction-repulsion emotion that Jane feels is too constrained. I would have like to have seen more chinks in her armor and more turmoil within her spiritual self.

I don’t know why I’m so attracted to this story; every time a new film or television version comes out I’m the first in line to see it. Yet, sometimes you wish you could take this Jane and pair her with that Rochester and put them in that castle, with those costumes, each film as it’s own strength and weaknesses. In this Jane Eyre the look and feel is just right and what it needs is more romance. But overall, it’s an excellent version.

Rating: First Run Overall, it’s an excellent version.

The Music Never Stopped

2011-03-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

A young music-loving father is teaching his son all about his favorite music. With each melody comes the artist, composer, and where he was and what he was doing when he first heard the song. Like a game, young Gabriel knows all about his father’s passion, but when he grows up and develops a musical taste of his own, father and son no longer see eye to eye. One night, Gabriel (Lou Taylor Pucci) and his father (J.K. Simmons) have a terrible row and as Gabriel is storming out of the house his father yells after him, “And never come back again!” It is now twenty years later and Henry has yet to see his boy.

Flash forward to the 80’s and Henry is sitting in his living room listening to his precious music. His wife (Cara Seymour) is glaring at him for not answering the telephone. As Henry continues to be transfixed in song, we see Helen’s face change from frustration to grief. Her sorrow is so profound that it gets Henry’s attention. Gabriel has been found.

The next scene takes place in a hospital. While Gabriel has been living on the streets, a slow growing tumor has been invading his brain. With its removal, Gabriel has lost a big portion of his memory and the ability to form new ones. Henry is devastated. He finally has his son back and he can’t even remember the last thing he said.

When Henry is forced into early retirement, Helen decides to get a job. This means that Henry can no longer avoid visiting his son at the hospital. One of them has to be there. Henry is in torment. He really wants to connect with his son but he can’t stand seeing him in his current state. So after he resigns himself to the painful duty of spending time with Gabriel, Henry begins to notice certain promising behaviors. These behaviors start Henry doing research on his own and this him to Diane Daley (Julia Ormond). Diane Daley is a musical therapist. In her research she is developing protocols to reach different parts of the brain through music. She agrees to meet Gabriel and with their meetings she discovers something wonderful, Gabriel has memories that have survived.

This sounds like a hokey premise for a movie, but The Music Never Stopped is based on a true story. When a song released between 1958 through 1970 was played, especially The Beatles, Dylan or the Grateful Dead, Gabriel would light up, become engaged, and recall memories from that period. In order to understand his son and his music more Henry trades in his beloved vinyl and exchanges them for albums from Gabriel’s era. As Gabriel becomes radiant and starts to share with his father what the music means and where he was when he heard it, Henry is now the pupil and Gabriel is the teacher. The scenes between J.K Simmons and Lou Taylor Pucci are magical.

Through Gabriel’s recollections, Henry is convicted and shamed by the mistakes that he made as a father. But now that he has a chance to know his son again he is pouring his entire self into the process. The psychological part of the story is interesting but it is the father-son dynamic that really makes this film. Their scenes are so moving that when you add in the music, they become unforgettable. And that is what makes this movie special, it speaks to the power of music and love.

Rating: First Run The scenes between J.K Simmons and Lou Taylor Pucci are magical.

Red Riding Hood

2011-03-12T19:52:00.000-08:00

Folklore, Myths and Fairy-tales are all rooted in reality. They have grown out of our collective fears, insecurities and sub-conscience. Yet in Catherine Hardwicke’s take on Red Riding Hood, the film is so disconnected from any real place or time that it has all the depth of a fashion magazine photo spread. Amanda Seyfried is beautiful to look at with her pale skin, blue eyes and blonde hair set against a velvety red cape and hood, but you can’t build an entire movie around around a woman’s beauty, there needs to be something more.

The thing that bothered me the most about this film was the contemporary behaviors set in a medieval time. It is never clear where we are and what the time period is because there is such an eclectic mix of styles and crafts, but it is an unenlightened time and with such a small close-knit community, they probably would not have allowed Valerie (Red Riding Hood) to act so wayward and independent.

When I looked up to see what else Catherine Hardwicke has directed I wasn’t surprised at all to see that she was an production designer first and had directed the teen sensation film Twilight. Although I’ve never seen any the Twilight films you can’t escape the parodies and pop culture references, and its stamp is all over this film. Like Twilight, Valerie must decide between two men, Peter (Shiloh Fernandez) her childhood love or Henry (Max Irons) the man she has been promised to. But since either one of them may be the village werewolf, she is taking the stance of wait and see.

The film does have a little mystery going since we didn’t know if the wolf is a man or a woman. It looked very masculine to me, but when Gary Oldman shows up as a werewolf hunting priest he admits that his own wife was a werewolf which put everyone, including the women under suspicion.

Although beautiful to look at, I became quickly bored with this movie and when the girls started dancing like teenage seductresses it completely took me out of the film. There needed to be more darkness, more angst and more suspicion. I found the werewolf out of sync with the look of the film and as far as tension I found film’s like The Crucible far more scary. If you are not a 14 year old girl this film really misses its mark. Maybe the next fairy tale inspired film will do better.

Rating: Rent It This film has all the depth of a fashion magazine photo spread

The Mechanic

2011-03-10T17:07:00.000-08:00

I never imagined that I would be nostalgic for a Charles Bronson movie made in the seventies, but after watching The Mechanic with Jason Statham, I kind of am. It has nothing to do with Jason Statham, I love this guy and think he makes an excellent Mechanic. He’s already proven himself with a similar role in the Transporter series. I think the disconnect for me is in the Bishop-McKenna relationship. In the 2011 version of The Mechanic, Steve McKenna is played by Ben Foster and he portrays Steve as a brooding loose canon. Arthur Bishop is supposed to be a precisionist who is drawn to fine things and who is meticulous with every detail in his life. I found it difficult to believe that he would put up with this self-destructive, shortsighted young man, even if he had the need to connect with another human being.

Now it’s hard to remember nearly forty years ago to how I felt about the original Mechanic, but I remember having a huge crush on Jan Michael Vincent and I also remember being very disturbed by Death Wish, which is the Charles Bronson movie that followed The Mechanic. That type of extreme violence was new to the movies then and at 14 years old it made quite an impression. To draw us away from our television sets in the seventies, the movies were getting more and more graphic in order to provide us with something that we couldn’t get on our television screens. Today, unfortunately, we are not safe anywhere.

As a remake I think that The Mechanic holds up, but I found the ending far less satisfying. I recall being blown away and titillated by the original. Maybe it was due to my age back then or maybe they just handled it better, I’m not sure. But I definitely preferred the Jan Michael Vincent interpretation of Steve. Ben Foster’s Steve lacked the self-control to be a contract killer. I think that Jan Michael Vincent’s narcissistic Steve was a much better choice. I also believe that the slower pace of the original film gave us more time to get to know Bishop and to watch their relationship grow. Bishop was considered very cool to a 1970’s teenager. As an adult now I see so much more.

Rating: Second Run A worthy successor to the Charles Bronson film

The Adjustment Bureau

2011-03-07T20:40:00.000-08:00

Many of us like to believe that there is someone or something out there watching over us and guiding our lives. In The Adjustment Bureau, Matt Damon has just discovered who they are. Carrying our book of life with them, these hat-wearing guardians watch over us ensuring that our path of destiny stays the course. When New York senatorial candidate David Norris (Damon) meets a modern dancer named Elise (Emily Blunt) they instantly hit it off and sparks fly. But according to the plan, Elise is intended to inspire David only; by design they are never to meet again. But David has never felt this way about a girl before. For three years he has continued to look for her riding the same bus at the same time every day. His handlers must get creative to keep David and Elise apart. David Norris is a persistent man.

When David accidentally discovers these fedora-wearing watchers he also learns about their time-saving portals. When entered, these secret doors instantly transport you to another part of the city. This way the watchers can cover many areas in a short amount of time. David learns that each person is assigned to a watcher who becomes their own personal case manager, but since there are more people than agents, they can’t watch everyone all the time. Therefore they may cover more than one person and can only be present for life-changing events.

Anthony Mackie plays David’s case manager Harry Mitchell. He answers to Richardson played by John Slattery. Harry Mitchell has been following David and his family for a very long time. He is weary and has grown too sympathetic and attached to his client. His error leads David to the discovery of the Adjustment Bureau and Richardson has been sent by the Chairman to clean things up. It is only through Harry’s intervention that David hasn’t been re-set. To be re-set means having your memory wiped and this would be a tragedy for anyone.

This story has the feel of an earlier time and may remind you of something like the Twilight Zone. For me it reminded me of the kind of science-fiction short stories that I read in my youth. This film has a definite retro feel, but what makes this film work overall is the interesting idea and the enchanting chemistry between Matt Damon and Emily Blunt. This dynamic propels the story and if their relationship weren’t believable then the film would have no lasting power. Also it is nice to have a sci-fi film that is a little more cerebral and doesn’t consist solely of monsters and explosions. The action in this film is more like a political thriller and the special effects enhance the film and do not overwhelm it.

I found The Adjustment Bureau different and refreshing and Matt Damon and Emily Blunt really suited each other well. Their relationship sustains the film throughout and they’re the main reason you should see this one. If The Adjustment Bureau doesn’t make you suspicious of men in hats at least it will make you think the next time you spill coffee or miss a bus. If it’s in your plan, go see it, but if you find it sold out, it wasn’t meant to be.

Rating: First Run A cerebral film to hang your hat on