the green hornet

So I watched 2011's "the green hornet", starring one of my comedy favorites Seth Rogen and directed by Michel Gondry. So was it good, well I say it stung me in a good way. So was it great, well no. Was it as bad as the critics and others have made it ought to be I say no way. Look this movie is clearly a spoof of super hero movies, but not one that tries to beat you over the head with the fact that it is a spoof, so I think a lot of people just didn't get it. Seth Rogen plays basically the character he played in pineapple express, which considering he wrote this movie with his writing partner from that movie it makes sense. Michel Gondry directed this film and though he has a very distinct style usually e.g "science of sleep" and "eternal sunshine of the spotless mind", we the audience don't see much of his unique visual sense and quirky dialog. However, I found this movie to be very enjoyable and highly underrated. I don't know if comic book fans were put off by the fact that this movie is sort of like the inspector clouseau and cato take on the green hornet character, from the pink panther movies, or if stoners were put off by the not so stoned Seth Rogen in this movie, but it seems most people did not like this movie as much as I did. I researched the green hornet and found that since its inception there have been several different takes on the characters and general story, so the fact that this one was not faithful to the original in every sense should not be a big deal to "purists". This take seems slightly different in that the green hornet wants to be seen not as a hero but as a criminal, so he can infiltrate criminal organizations more easily. This also makes him busting up said organizations look like a grab for power rather than a vigilante exercise. The hornet (Britt Reid) and Kato have no real super powers, although Kato can sort of slow time but not literally. So the character setup is kind of like batman in a lot of ways including the hornet being a trust fund baby. Look, basically I really liked this movie, I thought it was funny and packed with good action sequences, but everyone does not share that view so I recommend it but, I can't say who this movie should appeal to since I was not in the majority on this one.

get low

So I watched 2009's funeral flick "get low", starring two greats Robert Duvall and one of my personal favorites Bill "mother fucking" Murray. So was it good, I say yes indeedy do. This film is a mystery of sorts, so once again I won't be discussing plot. However, I will comment on things like the direction which was very good, especially considering this was Aaron Schneider's first full length feature. The story was very interesting and well written. The story itself is loosely based on the life and I guess death of Felix Bushaloo Breazeale, a hermit acquitted of murder who had his own funeral party. The writers of the movie took this and twisted it and turned into a fine tale much better than the real life story. So now the acting, well as I said you have two greats plus a good supporting cast, so you can't go wrong there. Basically this is an easy to watch sort of indy film with great production value. Which leads us to the next question, is this film for everybody, yeah as I said it is easy to watch, it is comical at times, suspenseful at other times, has a little mystery, really something for everyone. I remember Robert Duvall promoted the shit out of this movie and, it did make a small profit, which considering it is an indy type film is pretty good and so was this movie.

megamind

So I watched 2010's CGI cartoon flick "megamind". Well was it megagood, well for a kids flick I say it was good. Now as a flick just for adults it get's an ehh. However, if I had kids I could sit through this film and enjoy it which I did overall, and I think kids will love this movie. The animation is just standard fare here, nothing special but then again everything CGI to me at this point is wonderful, it just doesn't stand out here like it did in say "rango". The plot is interesting enough, two aliens crash on earth at the same time one destined to be a superhero and one destined to be a super villain, or perhaps not? The acting is solid and comes from some of the industries best Ferrel, Fay, Jonah Hill, David Cross, Stiller, and Pitt (hey my second review today with him). In fact, the character that Ferrel developed for this film was memorable, not Ron Burgundy memorable but good. It was interesting if I had to compare it to say "the incredibles" it is not in the same league, but it is good for a kid's flick. And I said most adults with the exception of my best friend who hates anything that isn't completely obscure should enjoy this "popcorn" flick.

Sleepers

So I watched the star studded film from 1996 called "Sleepers", and directed by academy award winning dude Barry Levinson. Mr. Levinson has given us some really great flicks over the years like "rain man" and "diner", as well as some real stinkers like "Sphere", "envy", and of course "Toys". So which camp does this one fall into well it was good, not great but good. So this movie could have been great I mean what a cast which includes Deniro, Patric, Pitt, and Hoffman. And the list keeps going. This movie is supposedly a real life fictionalized version of events that happened to the author of both the screenplay and the novel this film was based on, writer Lorenzo Carcaterra. The only problem there are zero records to back up this statement something the film disclaims at the end. Well what about the plot, well this is one of those flicks you should just watch, I think I was better for not knowing most of the plot going in and anyone else should be as well. There are some moments in this film that are not for children so just be aware of that before you sit little Billy or Betty down beside you to watch this. Also there is one plot point I will mention, half of this film takes place when the characters are young while the second half takes place when they have all grown up. So what did I not like about this film, well there were flashbacks which were useful, but just were a little too much and just complicated an already complicated story. There was also the narrative, normally I am a fan of narrative but here it didn't work for me. Besides from that this is a highly watchable film, and one that was filmed in the 1990's and takes place between the late 60's and early 80's, and holds up now some 15 years later. So finally is this film for everyone, well it's not very chicky and not lighthearted, its a guys film, but not like say "insert generic action flick or crime flick here", it is slightly cerebral. I recommend it, but it is not in my top Levinson film picks by a long shot.

harlan county U.S.A

So I watched the 1977 academy award winner for best documentary, "Harlan County U.S.A" directed by Barbara Kopple. So was it good, yeah it was pretty good. It was not one of my favorite documentaries, but it was enjoyable, informative, and had some real life drama. So basically this movie is about the plight of the Kentucky coal miner, but on a deeper level, it is also about the division between labor and the supplier's of capital in this country. This movie gives us a glimpse into not just the lives of these people, but their struggles over the years going back to the early days of unions in this country. We see how these men toil day in and day out in these mines, only to more than likely die from any number of things but namely "black lung". We see how the rich owners of this mine just don't seem to care about the health and safety of their workers, or about giving them a fair share of the pie. We get a glimpse at corruption at the corporate level as well as in government. Towards the end of the movie something substantial happens which finally brings this nearly year long strike to an end. I won't spoil it, but if Hollywood wrote I would say what B.S, but it happened and because of it the union boys got what they wanted. We also see that even though the strike at the heart of this film is over, the struggle for fair wages, good working conditions, and union rights is never over it seems. My only gripe was with the depressing as all hell hillbilly music, most of which made me feel suicidal. But some may really like that music. I know there is a version of "oh death" in this film, and normally I love it (at least the version by Ralph Stanley), but hated how the singers reminded me how depressing a tune it is in reality. Otherwise this is a great film, but I personally have seen better but not necessarily more powerful documentaries.

superheroes

So I watched HBO's 2011 documentary called superheroes. So was it good, I say up up and away (is that what superman used to say?) or in other words good. This documentary exposed me to a phenomena that I did not know existed, where people take the liking of superheroes way to far. Well that's not entirely true I saw a Mexican documentary a few years back, about Mexican wrestlers who were just people with a cause and a mask to draw attention to themselves called "super amigos", that was also very interesting and good. Basically this documentary is about a bunch of vigilantes most of whom are either out of shape, old, or drunks. There was a team out of New York which was actually composed of some very organized highly trained bad asses. But for the most part these are people with a super hero fetish who are just trying to do some good. My favorite line from the doc was when a super hero was describing his day it went as follows. "he's a regular guy who gets up,.... says goodbye to his girlfriend....., and goes out on the streets in costume." Then the documentarian asks "So you have a girlfriend?", and the super hero replies, "No ... I was just speaking metaphorically." I think that one line says it all, these guys are pretty fucking out there. However, they do good, they seem to help homeless people and shine a light on a common problem in this world, which is that most people turn a blind eye to injustice in this world including cops. So is this movie for everyone, well maybe some comic book geeks may be offended, but it has a good mix of entertainment value and educational value as well (it is a documentary after all). So most people should find something to like about this flick I know I did.

unstoppable

So I watched 2010's train movie unstoppable starring Denzel Washington and directed by Tony Scott. So was it good, well no it get's an ehhh from me. This is Denzel's second mass transit movie in the last couple of years the other being the mediocre remake of "the taking of Pelham 123" (by the same director I may add, what's next a remake of speed). I am not a fan of Tony Scott's movies for the most part with a few exceptions the man gave us "the hunger", "true Romance", and one of my favorite movies of all time "man on fire" also starring Denzel. So if you go to rotten tomatoes you see this flick got an 86% approval rating and is one point shy of a 7 (or the starting point of good in my opinion) on IMDB. However, if you look at the reviews themselves most of them say the same thing, which was "well he did the best he could with a pretty weak premise". Well what is the premise? The answer is a true life tale of a train in Ohio which was unmanned for almost 70 miles, and because of the stupidity of the conductor who left the train to begin with, was traveling at full throttle. All this while carrying a dangerous chemical that could kill us all! So a couple of brave souls got the train to stop. Well this movie did its best to make that boring yet interesting story well not so boring (at the end of day its still just a train on you know tracks going slower than my grandmother used to drive). This movie has conflict, suspense, redemption, selfless heroics, and an executive making all the wrong decisions because he is a douche, you name it the Hollywood formulas are all crammed in here. What it doesn't have is well, that quality that makes an action movie good. I guess go back and watch "man on fire" to get what I am saying, because I don't know how to put it in words; I guess the word Zaz comes to mind. This movie is very skippable, it is not the worst peace of crap I have seen lately, but as I said you may watch it and hear yourself uttering ehhh as well.

the long good friday

So I just saw the classic british gangster flick "the long good friday" from 1980, starring Bob Hoskins and a very cute Helen Mirren. So was it good, I think it was bloody terrific. I have always been a fan of british gangster flicks, I don't know if it is the accents or the propensity for violence mixed with smart dialog, but everything from "sexy beast" to one of my favorite films of all time "lock stock and two smoking barrels" I find just wonderful. So speaking of "lock" the actor who played one of my favorite characters from that film "hatchet Harry" (P.H. Moriarty) plays a great thug named "razors" in this film. This is one of those films where you are better off not knowing the plot at all, this film is a roller coaster ride and a mystery wrapped up in one violent package. All I can say is outside of the very 80's theme song (which wasn't completely horrible) I loved this film. It is stylish, has a very simple but original story line, has great acting, and has a very very satisfying ending. Any movie that I can watch where I can't predict what's coming next is generally pretty good in my opinion. In addition to all this movie has going for it look for a very young Pierce Brosnan in one of his first roles ever. He plays a critical part in this film, but does not even speak one line, which is ironic for a man known as much for his voice as he is for his looks. There is one other thing, being a bit of an anglophile, I can understand both accents and obscure references related to the British, but there were times I wish there were subtitles in this film. Look if you love gangster flicks or violent crime dramas in general, I don't see why you won't like or even love this film. Outside of no one being on cell phones and that very very 80's theme song (which actually I kind of enjoyed though I am not proud to admit this) I think this is a gangster classic that has stood the test of time.

city island

So I watched 2009's indy comedy "city Island", starring the under appreciated Andy Garcia. So was it good, yes not only was it good it was borderline great. This is one of the most original comedies to come about in a long time. This film is not of the raunchy comedy genre that has been so popular in recent years, but rather is a heartfelt portrayal of a family that is just too afraid to talk to each other and keeps many secrets. The movie centers around a secret love child the lead character played by Garcia had before he met his current wife, but found during his duties as a prison guard (I'm sorry I mean corrections officer). He brings this young man into his home and from there all the secrets that this family tries it best to keep from each other slowly come to light. This movie is very intelligent and is beautifully acted (great cast overall), with little side stories which range from the bizarrely beautiful to somewhat moving. "City Island" won the audience award at the Tribeca film festival and I can see why, this is not just one of the best comedies I have seen in a while, but one of the better movies in general I have seen of late. So now is this movie for everyone, well I think it should have broad appeal. It is intelligent, funny, well shot, well cast, and all while not being over anyone's head. The director and writer of this movie did another film I had similar feelings for called "Two family house." So whatever your personal tastes unless you are only into flicks that have the word "saw" in the title you should like if not love this flick.

outsourced

So I watched 2006's under the radar comedy gem "outsourced" directed and starring a bunch of people no one has ever heard of. So is it good, I say namaste bitches, or yes. Now is it great, well no. Was this movie a refreshing surprise I say indeed. Alright this movie is indy fare that did lead to what I believe was a pretty mediocre sitcom that got canceled after one season. This movie itself has sort of a made for TV look. This movie could have easily been bad, it could have been cheesy, but it is not. What it is is somewhat delightful, somewhat unpredictable, informative (in that we learn a little about Indian culture), and overall a pleasant funny little film. What I liked best about this movie was the authenticity, it was filmed on location, and we get a real sense of India and its people. So now the basics, the lead character Todd gets shipped to India by a patriotic kitsch company who now makes all its products in China and is about to outsource its customer service to India. He is sent to India to train his own replacement and the hilarity ensues. This is not a slapstick comedy but just a good lighthearted movie. Now is this movie for everyone, well no actually for an indy film this isn't very indy. This movie lies in a gray area where hardcore indy fans will turn their noses up to it, while the philistines who would normally flock to something like this may find some of this movie a little too dry and intelligent for their tastes (even though it is not high brow). This is why this movie probably never found an audience. However, I liked it, critics liked it, and the other amateur critics of this world liked it. I would even say this is a great date movie. So don't be afraid or put off by the gray zone this film occupies in the film world and give it a chance you may just see with your third eye you really liked this flick as well.

Animal Kingdom

So I watched Australia's 2010 winner for best picture "Animal Kingdom". So was it good, I say throw another shrimp on the barbie and enjoy this great flick. Now is this film perfect, no it could be a bit slow at times for a crime saga, and seems to have gaps in the plot where the audience is supposed to catch on to what happened at some point in the past (which is fine I could keep up). That being said this movie is highly original, well acted, well written, and well directed. I can see why it got so much acclaim in it's native Australia. I particularly liked how it started off with the potential of developing into a crime drama where the main character, a 16 year old named J, is brought in to learn the family trade and nothing else, but skewed off that plot point quickly. I expected to see robberies because this is what the family does. However, what we get instead is the aftermath of one of their scores we don't even really learn about it other than to see some money being counted out early on in this film. Instead J is thrust into this world after his mom dies and we go through a range of emotions and action as the family takes on the police hell bent on taking them down one way or another. So with that being said, this movie on my own IMDB would normally be a 7, but when the ending comes it comes at you hard and fast, and I did see it coming, but only moments before it happened. So if you take everything into consideration this goes down as one of the most original crime thrillers of all time. "Animal Kingdom" is not necessarily the best, but definitely one of the most original and no matter what a must see for both intellectuals and crime film fans.

The True Meaning of Pictures: Shelby Lee Adams' Appalachia

So I watched 2002's "The True Meaning of Pictures: Shelby Lee Adams' Appalachia" directed by Jennifer Baichwal. So was it good, I say yes but not great, and actually just barely good. This movie mostly struck me as pretentious people commenting on the validity of photographing hillbillies. In this film we are even given the definition of a hillbilly by a PHD oooooh, I'll let the filmmaker in on a little secret everyone fucking knows what a hillbilly is. This documentary reflects on the relationship between photographer Shelby Lee Adams' and his subjects of thirty some odd years the mountain folk of Appalachia. He has an honest and true regard for these people having come from this breed of people I guess, however I do not share his love of these creatures. Look we all have flaws and we all have strengths, however I think most hillbillies are racist, undereducated, under motivated, drug addicted, often incestuous, cretins. I fear this type of people because any contact I have with this breed of American has reinforced the stereotypes of them, and their portrayal in this documentary did nothing to change that opinion. This movie is very dry and very boring, but it is a valid exercise in the documentary genre and is an interesting subject overall. However, I personally recommend the "The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia", if you want to see a documentary on hillbillies. It is more fast paced, has good music, and in general gives a more honest portrayal of what a hillbilly is in my opinion. So watch both, I think it is a good way to compare and contrast two sides of the same coin.

the town

So I watched "the town" written, starring, and directed by the poor man's Matt Damon, Ben Affleck. I am not a huge fan of Ben Affleck, he has done some good work chiefly "Good Will Hunting", but overall his work is more like the idiotic Paycheck (I have got to read the Philip K. Dick story it is based on it can't be as bad as the movie). So is it good, well yes and no. It is a brilliant, taught, suspensful, well acted crime drama. It also has an interesting twist in that Ben Affleck's character falls in love with a hostage he takes on one of his bank jobs. However, what happens later in the movie is complete and total B.S. I am not going to say it, anyone who has read a review or two of mine knows I try to stay away from specific plot points and sometimes even the plot in general. I don't like to spoil the adventure, but Ann if you read this review just remember you dumped me for no reason at all, you need to take a lesson from the forgiving woman played well by Rebecca Hall. Yeah I said it. Anyways, back to the review. This movie is one of several recent gritty movies to take place in the bad part of Boston where apparently America's non hillbilly white trash settle down (read my review of Eddie Coyle). So this is a good movie, with one glaring unrealistic aspect, but if you can get past that, and if you like crime dramas you should like this movie. Kudos Mr. Affleck you are apparently more gifted than most of your film roles would lead the general public to believe.

rango

So I watched Rango from 2011 and starring Johnny Depp. So was this movie good, I say yes you bastards, sorry I tend to curse when I channel the voice of Dr. Duke. I am perhaps a little bit biased in my assessment of this film, I do have a very brief cameo in it. Look for me in the beginning I am driving the Cadillac with my lawyer in the back seat. This is a kids film, but fortunately it is one of those films the adults can enjoy as well (the fact that I am in it should tell you that). The story is very predictable and has been done a million times in a million movies. We have a fish out of water (well lizard), who pretends to be something he is not, gets caught eventually, but comes back to both redeem himself and save the day and of course gets the girl. However, it is the original take on this premise as well as the subtle deeper thoughts that this movie touches on that makes it good. It also is one of the most beautifully animated films I have seen yet. I heard this movie is spectacular in 3D, which is something I would not doubt. So this movie is well shot, well written, and well acted, it has great and original characters, and in general is really good for a kids movie. I will say this critters die in this flick something I was not expecting in a kids movie. But then again it is not graphic and we are talking about birds and other such critters so unless your kid doesn't understand why grandma can't come over for the holidays anymore, don't worry about your kids watching this film. Most people should enjoy this film it is very enjoyable on many different levels and as I said visually stunning. So go watch enjoy whatever your personal movie preferences are.

It's kind of a funny story

So I watched "it's kind of a funny story" from 2010 starring one of my favorite comedians Zach Galifianakis and some kid. So was it good, I say hell yeah this movie was great it's almost worthy of a non skewed 8 on IMDB. I say almost just because it is really really good but not like classic good. This film is truly of the indy variety and one of my favorite films that I have seen recently. It is imaginative, original, well written, well shot, well acted, you name it. This movie touches on some very sensitive subject matter as it does take place almost entirely in a psych ward in a hospital. This movie is the story of a teenager going through some tough times, not because he has a rough life, but because he is just feeling a lot of pressure and stress and doesn't know how to handle it. He has a good life by most anyone's account which is something he acknowledges. I grew up in a similar situation to this kid and could empathize and appreciate what he was going through. Zach plays a great supporting role opposite the kid, he is very funny at times and at other times we get a glimpse into what brought him to stay in the loony bin. This film has one of the funniest movie scenes I have seen of any movie ever and it involves a beaver (sort of). "It's" incorporates fantasy and animation beautifully on top of everything it has going for it. So now we ask is this movie for everyone, NO! This movie is esoteric and an independent film. Look if you like the pixies you will like this movie. If you just asked yourself "whats a pixies?" don't watch.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

So I watched the mega blockbuster finale to the Harry "the nerd sorcerer" Potter saga "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" from 2011. So was this movie good, I say abracadabra bitch, or yes in muggle speak. I have seen every Harry Potter movie and enjoyed them all. I especially like how the movies (and I guess the books to) have matured with each passing film. They also went from somewhat structured like in the sorcerers stone to less predictable and original as time has passed. I saw this last one in IMAX 3D, I personally found the 3D to not be mind blowing, which I think is common among films not shot in 3D. So if I was you I would save the cash and see this in regular boring ole' 2D. So this movie just like the others is a little dark, has fascinating characters, a mystery to be solved and mysteries to be revealed. This movie delivers these Harry standards in spades. This movie was enjoyable except for the final scene for me. I won't spoil it but it is taken from the final books epilogue. It seemed tacked on and kind of pointless. I personally think much like star wars we have not seen the last Harry Potter film. I see the next one coming in about 10 years after the next Harry book by Rowling comes out called "Harry Potter and the quest to find something else to write that failed and the search for more money." I think the next one should be R with a little graphic interracial (muggle on wizard) hardcore action. So this movie is a worthy ending to the series, it answers all the questions, has a wide demographic base from young to old from magic nerd to jock. So go enjoy and be nerdy for a couple of hours, but just don't start here these movies for the most part should be watched in order.

horrible bosses

So I saw 2011's horrible bosses starring well a lot of famous people. So is it good, well that depends on a few things. So if you are looking for a really well developed story well this movie is horrible. However, if you enjoy mindless comedy, this movie is worthy of best picture. This movie is hilarious. However, that is about it. So did I like it well yeah, but I am also a huge fan of this type of film when it is done right. This movie in some ways reminded me a lot of (what I consider to be the best stoner comedy of all time) "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle." In it three individuals, hate their bosses and want to kill them. So who are these individuals. Well my favorite is played by Charlie Day of one of the best sitcoms of all time, "it's always sunny in Philadelphia." He essential plays a smarter version of his character on that show, he even is a self proclaimed law expert in this movie. The second is played by Jason Batman who plays the same character he plays in every freakin' movie he is in for the most part. Hey Jason, you better ride that money train for as long as you can, because people are starting to get bored with the under appreciated executive you made famous in (another one of the best sitcoms of all time) "Arrested Development." Finally, the last killer in repose is played by Jason Sudeikis who plays an interesting character who is somehow competent and a good guy while being a very smarmy sex addict. The cast is rounded out by several greats all playing some really horrible bosses. We have Jennifer Aniston playing a Nympho dentist who is not afraid to sexually harass Charlie Day. This movie is worth seeing just for her alone and the chance to see her near naked body WOW! Then there is Colin Farrell who has the best comb over of all time, he is simply horrible, but in a good way. And then there is Kevin Spacey who is horrible but who is really over the top, which I didn't like. Finally there is I think a character played by.....well a cameo so if you don't know why spoil it (I know I was surprised). So this movie is basically character and joke driven. In this sense it is immensely successful, and should have very broad appeal. So go and just turn your brain off and laugh, oh and if you can manage to see it with the worlds most beautiful woman I highly recommend it.

paranormal activity

So I watched 2007's surprise hit "paranormal activity" starring two people I have never heard of before or since this movie came out. The stars are also the directors as this movie was shot on a single camera. The stars are Katie somebody and Micah somebody playing fictional couple Micah and Katie somebody. So in other words this movie isn't about the stars. So what is this movie about? Well let's not discuss plot but rather what this movie is. Well it is a horror movie of the best kind, minimal where the chills come from what we don't see. Often this fear of the unknown affects are own lives and I often prefer movies that reflect the heightened sense of fear we often display in the face of nothing to be afraid of. This movie is very similar in concept to "The Blair Witch project". Unknown actors are given a camera and immersed into a scary situation. However with this film there is a very structured plot and use of minor but highly effective special effects. The result is a movie which is very creepy. So I have waited to say whether it is good or not, well yeah it is good, and I think it could have been great. The ending is much like Blair witch, but unlike Blair Witch instead of just ending when the big horrible crescendo is reached, we are exposed to a coda which kind of ruined it for me. So it is good, it has broad appeal, and if you liked Blair witch you will probably like this movie. It is a really great flick, if unlike me you turn it off when you hear the final blood curdling screams. I know I wish had.

harry brown

So I watched 2010's Harry Brown starring two time academy award winner Michael Caine. So was it good I say, ehhh. It didn't suck and at times was very promising. So why ehhh. Well this movie had a really great start that didn't even factor into the rest of the movie other than to set the tone for the movie. I didn't need this very powerful scene to factor into anything, I kind of like that it didn't, but the movie slowly lost ground after that. So then there was the set up, for the rest of the flick, where we learn of Harry's marine service probably a good 50 years earlier. We never learn the extent of this service, because Harry won't talk about it, other than to say he gave all that up for his wife. Gave what up? Peeling potatoes or killing people with his thumb; I know I never got a sense of what rage this man was holding back all these years. And that was part of the problem we are supposed to just assume that Harry was just some sort of bad ass psycho killer or maybe an assassin. All we know is that after a series of events (if you watch I'll let it unfold for you), he decides to go all Charles Bronson in death wish on the local projects gang. Then we reach the end which has a surprise plot twist that as soon as it started to unfold became very very predictable. I believe it is called "Deus ex machina" and I just refereed to in another review (Adaption) (but for very different reasons). This movie could have been good but it is not, but if you like violent flicks you may like this for that reason and sadly not much else.

blue valentine

So I watched 2010's indy movie "blue valentine" starring two great indy actors Ryan Gossling and Michelle Williams (see my review of Wendy and Lucy). So was it good, well I say yes. The story is very basic in the sense that we see a couple at various stages of their relationship. The interesting part was how the story is put together. The story does not start at the beginning but rather jumps around as we see these individuals change and different things are revealed about their lives together. The acting in this film is really good, and Michelle Williams was honored with an academy award nomination for her work here. The film has a very indy look, it is not done with flash but rather the story and acting are what make this film. There are no clear villains in this film, no one who is truly to blame for why this relationship falls apart. We just see two different people who have chemistry but whose lives drift apart and change. So is this film for everyone, no this movie is for indy lovers and intellectuals. As I said there is nothing worthy of 3D here and no Angelina Jolie with her perfect boobs to grace the screen for the general viewing public to enjoy. However, I did enjoy this and thought it was great.

Adaptation

So I saw 2002's award winning Adaptation directed by the creative Spike Jonze and written by the even more creative Charlie Kaufman. So is it good, yes it is extremely good. This movie has one of the most creative plots I have ever seen in any movie. This is not surprising considering the writer (Charlie Kaufman) or should I say writers, as both him and his imaginary twin Donald were both nominated for the academy award for best adapted screen play (something they lost which in my estimation is one of the greatest crimes committed by Oscar). So I mention Donald Kaufman, who is not a real person, so how does he factor into the movie. Well that is just it, I don't know if Charlie was approached about adapting Susan Orlean's book, "the orchid thief" and had difficulty writing it and decided to fictionalize the non fiction book, or if he just came up with the concept, but he took a nonfiction book and made it a fantasy of sorts. That is where the imaginary Donald comes into play. The story revolves around Charlie as he becomes increasingly frustrated about writing the screenplay while his twin brother (Donald) takes a screen writing work shop, and knocks out a hit movie that is very superficial and "popcorn" in nature. This dichotomy which is part of the movie industry, where the artist wants to be true to his art, while the pressures of delivering a hit and the formulaic plots that often get movie scripts green lit is explored. Charlie is an artist and Donald maybe represents that part of Charlie that feels like selling out to make a good payday (something you can debate for yourself). This plays out while the real story of Orlean and her subject John Laroche (played by Chris Cooper who won best supporting actor) plays out at first in the background. The movie continues to follow Charlie as he becomes increasingly frustrated and Donald becomes increasingly successful. Then the movie takes a purposeful twist. The movie even tells us it is taking the twist. It announces the plot twist before it happens, calls it by name, deus ex machina, a plot device whereby a seemingly inextricable problem is suddenly and abruptly solved with the contrived and unexpected intervention of some new event, character, ability, or object. So it announces it and all of a sudden we find ourselves in a sex and drug filled thriller where the lives of Charlie, Donald, Laroche, and Orlean crash together both literally and figuratively. So this movie is crazy insane, brilliantly written, beyond original, and extremely well acted. So is this movie for everyone, well NO! This movie is for indy lovers and the more creative thinkers among us. If transformers is your favorite movie this might not be a flick for you. However, I simply adored it.

Despicable Me

So i watched 2010's CGI cartoon Despicable Me, starring, the not so great since 40 year old virgin, Steve Carell. This movie is not good plain and simple. The animation is solid, but that is all I can say that is positive about this film. This is not of the caliber of the toy story franchise or ratatouille. O.k so that being said am I this movies target audience, well no this is for little kids. And I would not doubt little kids will love this film. Will a lot of those kids grow up to watch it again someday when they are older and say "why did I like this?", yes I think the ones who got past the third grade will! Oh, and if you are an adult doing hallucinogens there are better movies to trip to, not that I would know anything about that, it's just a suggestion.

It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World

So I watched 1963's classic comedy "It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World", directed by the late great Stanley Kramer. This is the second review I have done of a Kramer film recently the other being "Judgment at Nuremberg." So is this movie truly a classic, I say hell yes! This movie is hilarious (the exact opposite of Nuremberg). The movie starts with a dying man telling a group of perfect strangers about the location where a large stash of cash is buried and the hilarity ensues. This movie has an ensemble cast, which includes several of the best comedians of the 60's including Jonathan Winters and Phil Silvers. This movie is also full of cameo appearances including a brief shot of the three stooges. This movie is just one laugh after another. It is perfectly acted, and the story allows the characters to get into crazy disasters one after the other, without seeming contrived. A very similar movie was made a few years ago called "rat race." However, this film is far superior though I did kind of like rat race, it's funny (not good but funny). This movie is not only good it is excellent and should be liked by a broad audience including kids. I would rank it among one of the best comedic films of all time.

3 women

So I watched 1977's dream flick "3 women", by the late great Robert Altman. This movie stars both Shelly Duvall and Sissy Spacek, both who won awards for their acting in this film. So is this movie good, yes if you like the surreal (which I do). Is it a classic, I say yes but of cult status only. This is not a mainstream movie. Even for Altman this movie is out there. This is not one of his typical dialog driven smart comedy. It is a flick about images, ideas, and things that are open for interpretation. Including the end which Altman himself said he was not quite sure he understood. The inspiration for this film was in fact a dream Altman had. This film starts out seemingly normal but slowly morphs into a dream, becoming stranger and stranger with each passing scene. I recommend this movie for indy lovers and art lovers. I am not sure many others would appreciate the rather intellectual high art concept of this film. Watching this movie with friends may be the best way to go, with the right group this film could inspire a deep philosophical and existential debate.

winter's bone

So I watched 2010's critically acclaimed redneck flick "winter's bone." So was it good, well I say does a toad bump its ass when it jumps, in other words hell yeah! I really liked this movie. The story is simple enough some inbred family's pa has gone missin' in the Ozarks, and his daughter done need to find him before she lose da' house to da' bail bondsman. This story is a well written effort that takes us through the twists and turns of life far away from the city or even the suburbs. This is a place where kids know the answer to the question "how do you want that squirrel cooked?", and don't no one ever talk to da' poh-lice (something I personally recommend). The movie is well cast and acted, with much of the typecast hillbilly's of SAG doing a great job of kind of being themselves (or at least the types of characters they usually portray). This is a movie about navigating through choppy social waters, and understanding backwoods custom. I think this movie should have broad appeal and should at least get an "I liked this flick" from most people whatever their personal tastes.

the friends of eddie coyle

So I watched 1973's "The friends of Eddie Coyle", starring tough guy Robert Mitchum. So considering it's age is this movie a classic, well I say ehhh. However, is this movie good, I say yes. This movie stars Mitchum as Eddie "fingers" Coyle a gritty thug from the bad side of Boston. I don't know the history of Boston crime movies but this is the oldest I have seen. It seems in the last decade there have been a lot of these type of movies with Boston as the backdrop, including the crown jewel of this collection "the departed." Well anyways, Mitchum is not in this movie alone and there are a lot of recognizable faces, including Peter Boyle. The only part of the plot I would like to mention is how the parallel stories involving Boyle and Mitchum slowly come together in the end. And not to give anything away, but the ending is just wonderful, and something I did not see coming. I really liked that. The performances are strong the story taut. The action is subtle and not over done. I really liked this movie, so why is it not a classic. I guess for me it was the little things, like the music for instance. It sounded like 70's porn music. I guess that is a small beef, but I just reviewed Das Boot (and though I didn't discuss it) one aspect of the film I did not like was the very synthesizer driven music that was very very 80's. So if you look at the departed with its awesome soundtrack that stretches across several decades to find great songs, I think it lends to the notion that a movie is the sum of its parts and often a big part of the story is supported by music. O.k well what else, well that was about it. So why am I still not calling this a classic. Well I guess while I was watching it, I kept thinking if they did it right this movie would make a great remake. I would never think that about say "star wars". It is a classic and doesn't need to be remade. So I guess this movie is great but I just wouldn't say "classic." I think if you like crime dramas or movies from this period you will like this movie. Do not get me wrong this is a great movie, just not timeless in style. So watch it and maybe comment on what you thought, I'd love to know.

get him to the greek

So I watched 2010's raunchy comedy "get him to the greek". So was it good, I say ehh.. it started good. This film stars Russel Brand who I personally think is hilarious, especially when he appears on talk shows. He is an odd ex drug addict, who is sexy and looks like a rocker, so he is perfectly cast here. It also stars P-diddy as a record label owner a role he is well suited for. Additionally, it stars Jonah Hill who is very finny, and several supporting roles all done well. This movie starts awesome. It has sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll, all with raunchy humor and an interesting take on the classic road trip theme used by movies. However, the third act doesn't just feel weird and out of place it also feels awkward. The film comes back together by the final sequence, but by then I at least lost interest. This movie is geared more towards stoners, raunchy comedy fans, and the youth of this world. If you are not part of this demographic you will probably not care for this film much, and if you are, you may find yourself rolling on the floor in laughter until the third act when you may find yourself saying "what?".

Das Boot

So I watched 1981's oascar nominated "Das boot", directed by Wolfgang Peterson. This is Peterson's masterpiece and his most lauded film. So is it a classic, well let me just say Heil, Hitler. Wait what was that, yes this movie had me rooting for the Nazis, something I never thought I would do, and something that probably just killed my parents. This movie starts a little slow, but once the men are on the u-boat (submarine), it becomes one of the most fascinating and realistic films I have ever seen. This movie was filmed over the course of a year, and allowed the men to naturally grow thin, pale, grow beards, and even really get injured. Even the injuries which really occurred as the actors were thrown around the set, were included in this film. "Das Boot" is emotional, gripping, well written, and wonderfully directed, what else can I say. "Das boot" is considered to be one of the best films ever made and I would concur with that notion. This film should have broad appeal ranging from women to men, and every cross section within the primary sexes. It is German, with subtitles, but like many movies is dubbed, though I have never liked a dubbed version of anything I have ever seen outside of cartoons. To discuss the plot like many films I review, is to do this film an injustice, the audience is always better off when a good story isn't spelled out for them before they see it. So just watch it sometime you should dig it, and maybe you to will find yourself rooting for the bad guys.

the social network

So I watched 2010's most over-hyped film "the social network". So was it good, well yes, was it as awesome as advertised well no. This film has quite a pedigree oscars, David Fincher, Aaron Sorkin (not a fan, I personally think all his characters speak with the same tone, just watch Sports night to get an idea of what I am talking about), and universal critical praise. I personally liked this movie but did not love it. It is a fictionalized version of the truth, a truth that is still the present for the most part. I personally don't see what is so great about facebook. I have an account, but most of the time when I log on I see someone "likes q-tips", thanks for sharing. But it is fascinating that this genius named Mark Zuckerberg, basically took being socially awkward, having a chip on his shoulder, and programming skills, and turned all that into a company that is somehow magically valued at around 25 billion dollars (another thing that I just don't understand). Zuckerberg apparently did all this while he sacrificed friendship, and screwed over a couple of uber twins to become the king nerd. This film does give us some sense of the basic story of how someone became the world's youngest billionaire. It is also interesting, well acted, and has broad appeal. However, just like facebook itself I think it is overvalued, over-hyped, and may very well be more of a fad than a classic.

time bandits

So I watched "time bandits" from 1981 and directed by the great Terry Gilliam. So is it a classic, yes but possibly just of the cult variety. Time bandits represents Gilliam's more playful side, a side that is directed at making kid's fairy tales. Other examples of this side include "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" and "the brothers Grimm". This film is his most successful attempt at making a kid's movie. However, this movie is not just for kids, I do remember making my dad take me to this when I was just 7. However, I have seen this movie at various points in my life and it held up at every stop, including this latest viewing. This film is a child's dream come true (or is it). It is strange at times, while making subtle statements on modern suburban life at other times. Statements that I may add still hold up today. The story centers around the adventures of a young boy, well played by Craig Warnock (this was one of the few things he did as an actor), as he joins a rag tag bunch of little people who work for the supreme being. These pint size creative assistants are hell bent on making a name for themselves as robbers. The first thing they steal is the supreme beings map of time portals allowing them to time travel and well become "time bandits." From there the movie is a mythical adventure partly based on historical figures and partly based on fairy tales. This movie is hilarious, it is stylistically a good example of the unique genius of Terry Gilliam, and has several cameos of great actors including Sean Connery. The one thing that is up for debate is was this a dream, was it real, or was it a dream so powerful it became real. I lean toward the last theory, just look for giant "leg-gos" and the last shot of the boys bedroom, to understand part of my justification for subscribing to this last theory. The end is odd and leaves many unresolved questions, but that is part of the beauty of this great film. This movie is not for everyone, it is for the indy lovers, the more creative among us, and the little kids who grow up and don't necessarily score with the head cheer leader.

With a friend like harry

So I just watched "with a Friend like Harry" from 2000. So is it good, I say oui. This movie is slow in its build up to the suspenseful second half of the film. It is mildly humorous at times, while being quite disturbing at other times. Look movies like this you don't want to talk too much about, it is after all a suspense pic. So what I can ponder openly is the deeper meaning behind the ending, if there is one. I picked up something deeply psychological, though I could have been mistaken, but perhaps we are all a little Harry in some ways? Watch and maybe you will understand what I am getting at. So that's all I can say is if you like slightly cerebral, fresh and original, suspense flicks, that are in french then you will love this one. If you can deal with the subtitles (and everything else applies) it is a really good movie and you can't go wrong with it.

Judgement at Nuremberg

So I watched the award winning "Judgment at Nuremberg" from 1961, and directed by Stanley Kramer. So is this movie a classic, I say fuck yeah! So not only is this movie a classic, I would rank it among one of the best films I have ever seen. This movie has twists and turns like a suspense thriller, but is very subtle in those twists and turns, they are neither obvious nor are they possibly even intentional. This film is brilliantly written, it is brilliantly acted, was wonderfully cast, and directed by a master. This film is both unflinching at times, and surprising at other times. These surprises aren't typical surprises in the traditional sense, these are the twists and turns you feel. Every moment you feel is building to some sort of sympathy by the head Judge played by Spencer Tracey for the German's particularly one of the defendants played stoically by Burt Lancaster, but he is pragmatic and unforgiving without being angry or vengeful in the end. I personally think his performance was better than Maximilian Schell's, which garnered him a well deserved Oscar. In addition to these brilliant roles, there are strong roles played by Marlene Dietrich, Judy Garland, and Richard Widmark. Additionally, there were roles performed by iconic characters of the small screen, by Captain Kirk in one of his first film roles, and Colonel Klink from "Hogan's Heroes" (Werner Klemperer). So basically this movie is moving, surprising, exquisitely acted, wonderfully written, perfectly cast, classic in every sense of the word, and award winning. So yeah I think it is one of the best films of all time, even if you don't agree with that sentiment, I would be surprised if you watch this film and don't love it.

My dinner with Andre

So I finally watched the cult classic "My dinner with Andre" directed by the legendary Louis Malle. So was it good, no it was excellent. This film was written by two friends who come from wealth, intellect, and a prestigious education that includes Harvard and Oxford. This film was written by two friends, who had worked often together one a playwright and the other a theater director. The playwright is the popular but somewhat unknown Wallace Shawn (the princess bride (he even says inconceivable in this film)), and he plays a playwright named Wallace Shawn who grew up in New York and is dating a woman named Debbie which is his reality. The theater director who co-wrote and co-starred in this film is Andre Gregory, who plays theater director Andre Gregory. So basically this somewhat improvised film which, has the feel of a play, is an actual conversation these dear friends had one evening over dinner. The stories they tell throughout the film are all real life experiences, their character names are their real names and their professions are their real life professions. Basically this could have been a documentary featuring these two men talking, but the shell and the structure was written before hand. The movie is simple, we enjoy dinner with these two men as if we are there with them enjoying their witty deep discussion. This movie reminded me a lot of another great film that is simply one long conversation called "mindwalk." I think this movie was brilliant, and I look forward to watching it again someday with others, so that maybe the film can be the spark that ignites such a profound discussion that me and my friends or girlfriend can engage in ourselves. I don't think this film is for everyone, it is after all a conversation between two very erudite artists. However, I believe it is a must see for the intellectuals of this world. Oh and one other thing, I usually hate movies based on plays, they read and are often shot like we are an audience watching a play. This film is a film, it is intimate and simple but feels natural and we are allowed as I said to be at the table with these men and not in the audience watching them.

Out of Africa

So I watched 1985's best picture winner "Out of Africa". This movie won a butt load of awards. So is it a classic, I say yes. This movie is based on the true life adventures of writer Karen Blixen while she lived in Kenya in the early part of the last century. She is also the writer of another story which is the basis for one of my favorite films "Babbette's feast." This movie has gotten some flack for being an undeserving winner, chiefly because "the color purple" and the cult classic "Brazil" were also released that year (Brazil's thought to have gotten snubbed by Oscar and I would agree with that sentiment). However, I thought this movie was great. It seems to be mostly true to the real life adventures and trials and tribulations of Karen Blixen. The movie has superb acting from both it's leads, the great Robert Redford and the timeless Meryl Streep. The backdrop of Africa in all its glory is beautifully shot, and the time period is faithfully represented. There are a few moments which look a little fake, like they have video backdrops, something today's green screen would have prevented. Besides from that I think this is a first class film and a great story. I don't think you can go wrong with this one.

the boy in the striped pajamas

So "I watched the boy in the striped pajamas" from 2008. So was it good, yeah it was good. Now was it great, I say no. So Vera Farminga won the BIFA for best actress, for portraying a German chick with an English accent, portrayed by a U.S born chick who only spoke Ukrainian until she was six. So I guess that's what got her the award, because that is kind of challenging. Other than that I didn't find her performance all that note worthy. As far as Nazi flicks I have seen better, namely in the form of "Schindler's list". "Schindler's list" didn't pull any punches, making it one of the most powerful films of all time. But this movie is good. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. One of the problems I had was all of the German's spoke with British accents, which threw me off a little at first, until I realized they were Nazi's. The story itself is good and centers around a small boy who befriends the boy in the striped pajamas. I will admit the ending is very powerful, and in a tamer movie would probably have ended differently. The end in this movie is more than just the final act, it is what this film builds too, and I guess that is why I just liked it and did not love it. I guess what I am saying is if the rest of the film had been as unflinching as the end it could have been great. However, this is one of those movies I think everyone should watch, not just to form there own opinion of this film, but to serve as a reminder that humans in reality can be monsters far worse than anything with fangs or sharp claws.

transamerica

So I watched the academy award nominated indy flick "transamerica" from 2005. So was it good, I say yes it was very enjoyable. Look let me just say I am not gay, not that there is anything wrong with that. And that is kind of the point, the United states has rapidly been submerged in gay culture since Ellen decided to out herself on her show. It was kind of a rallying call for the troops, to say "we're here, we're queer, get used to it." So movies like this and "the kid are all alright" are finding themselves green light more often and we are the better for it. Because a good movie is a good movie. So Felicity Huffman gave an Oscar nominated performance, playing a man named Stanley who is trying to become a chick named Bree. So why would a woman pretending to be a woman trapped inside a man, be the role of a lifetime for a T.V actress? Well the answer is she did it convincingly, there weren't any "I'm a lumberjack" moments that she had to deal with, but she still had to deal with the emotions of someone who is already feminine, but at the same time isn't physically feminine (well completely). However, this movie goes beyond just the character it is a funny story, and a fresh take on the classic "road trip" theatrical model. This movie is fresh, funny, and breaks down social barriers. I say see it, even if this isn't normally your cup of tea. This movie doesn't bash you over the head with ideology, it is just an enjoyable story centered around a stand out performance.

three o'clock high

So I watched 1987's three o'clock high starring, well no one whose name you will probably know. So is it good, I say it is was rad dude. I love this movie, I have seen it a few times since its original release, and I think it has the makings for status as a cult classic, if it hasn't achieved that moniker already. So it holds up 20 some odd years later, well why? Well I guess its the clever story, the humor, the use of the western theme where two men draw guns at high noon (well at three after class here), and the subtle homage to the biblical story of David versus Goliath. You take all that, you add a young Barry Sonnenfeld working on cinematography (men in black, Addams family, etc), a young Lisa Simpson playing a cheerleader, a practically unseen Paul Feig (freaks and geeks, the office, etc), and a bulked up Skinner from the x-files, you have a movie worth watching for a variety of reasons. I like how the characters day slowly goes from bad to worse just because he touched the wrong guy, how everything goes haywire after that, and how not only does he redeem himself in the end, but becomes both a living legend and a stud in the process before the fight even begins. This movie is just great, it is made in the mold of a John Hughes flick in some ways as well, these types of movies were green lighted a lot during that period, but this one stands on its own . So if you like 80's flicks that don't suck (well the music tangerine dream did does), if you like a good teen high school flick, or if you like clever and unique movies you can't go wrong. So put on your wayfarers and vans, pop some jiffy pop, maybe find a new coke somewhere, and enjoy.

dazed and confused

So I revisited 1993's cult classic "dazed and Confused", at the local artsy film house. It was a great night they had a costume contest, which we won, well we were the only one's who apparently decided to come in costume, but still we won. They even sold PBR's during the movie so that made things that much better. So is this movie a classic, I say alright alright. This is a cult classic more geared towards the stoner crowd of which I am a proud member. What affirmed for me the notion that this movie is a cult classic is the overwhelming abundance of people (including me) who were saying the lines of the movie out loud in the theater. The fact that so many people remembered so many great lines I think says it all. And that is one of the great things about this movie the story and the dialog in particular. The great cult film maker Richard Linklater, didn't just develop fascinating characters, he gave them many many many memorable things to say. This movie is also nostalgic, for even though it takes place in the 70's, I identified with the whole suburban growing up and making the transition from middle school to high school and going from underclassman to the all powerful senior class thing (that was a mouth full). I also identified with a lot of what these characters did to have fun when they were young and stupid. Look, I don't know if this movie is for everyone, as I said it is a stoner cult classic, but Richard Linklater has given us not just fun movies to watch like this and school of rock, but a pair of great romance movies in before sunrise and before sunset, some really deep philosophical vehicles, in slacker and waking life, and last but not least the imaginative "a scanner darkly" which showcases the very beautiful filming technique known as interpolated rotoscoping, which Linlater was the first to utilize for an entire film. In addition to all this, this film launched the careers of actors like Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck. Look the point of all this is, this is not just a great film, it was made by one of today's most interesting film directors, and gives a look at budding stardom. So in other words, no matter what your personal tastes, there is almost no reason not to at least check out this gem. You may even find yourself someday watching it again and saying the lines with glee yourself.

the A-team

So I watched 2010's comedy the A-team starring Liam Neeson and the pretty boy douche Bradley Cooper. So is this movie good, hell no! So why did I watch it? Well for one I was forced into it, and secondly it scored a 7 on IMDB. I have found that a movie that scores a 7 on IMDB is usually worth watching, but have found with some popcorn flicks that there is a skew that does not necessarily reflect this observation. This was beyond true in this case. So I used to watch the A-team growing up and loved the show including the wonderful character known as B.A Baracus played perfectly by Mr. T.. So I will say I get that the show was over the top and ludicrous and so the movie should be as well. However, if you are going to take a bad t.v show from the 80's (remember I said I loved it) and make it into a movie why not just spoof it like Todd Phillips did with Starsky and Hutch. This movie took itself too seriously. It was a comedy and had some laughs, but overall was beyond unrealistic while trying to appear somewhat realistic. The character portrayed by Jessica Biel was just pointless. The bad guys were just huge douches (hey that's twice I used that word in one review). This movie was way too long and it wasn't even ridiculously long. The back story of how the A-team found each other was pointless, confusing, and pathetic. This movie was confusing and incoherent at times, while extremely predictable at other times. This movie sucked plain and simple. Look there are those in this world who got this movie and I guess enjoyed it, all I can say is kudos you are probably the reason why America is lagging behind the rest of the world in terms of educational standards; congratulate yourselves great job.

Wendy and Lucy

So I watched 2008's indy gem Wendy and Lucy. This movie is the feel good dog movie of the last decade. It is lighthearted, comical, and very easy to watch much like Benji. Wait that's not true in fact this movie is the opposite of that. However, is this movie good, yyyy..yy.yyy.eee.aaa.ssss. Sorry, that's yes I started to cry again. Which unless you are made of stone you will do periodically throughout this movie. It's not a good idea to describe the plot at all (which I am not prone to do anyways), but just to say this movie is very narrowly focused, dealing with the relationship of a homeless girl and her dog. This is a very low budget film, but it doesn't need special effects just demands strong acting from the lead role of Wendy played beautifully by Michelle Williams. This movie sheds a spotlight on several issues including homelessness, the struggles of being gainfully employed in tough times, the loss of someone we love, and the tough decisions we must make sometimes in life. This movie is not for everyone, but if you are an animal lover, an indy lover, or a lover of good and original cinema, get out the tissues and get ready to ball your eyes out you won't be disappointed.

I Capture the Castle

So I watched "I capture the castle" from 2003, starring a bunch of British actors who for the most part I am not familiar with and the kid from E.T. (Henry Thomas). To get sidetracked just a little before the review, if you look at the list of young stars who Spielberg has worked with he has spotted some kids who actually have made careers as actors including Dakota Fanning, Drew Barrymore, and most notably Christian Bale (empire of the sun- great flick!). So is it good, I say yes. This movie is sort of a romantic comedy that takes place in the 1930's in England. It is humorous especially in the early moments of the movie, and as the film progresses gets more serious and more about discovering love and the way love affects everyone differently and can change, grow, be confusing, painful, and well die out sometimes. So is this movie for everyone, well no. This movie I would say is geared more towards the Jane Austin crowd, and anyone else may groan during it. I am not a huge chick flick guy or a Jane Austin guy, but I enjoyed it. It is an interesting story, the period is represented beautifully and authentically, and the characters are for the most part very fascinating especially the father, played by the one guy I really knew in this flick, Bill Nighy. So if you find yourself having high tea while playing croquet and being bohemian than turn this movie on some night you should enjoy it.

Ratatouille

So I watched 2008's oscar winner for best animated feature film Ratatouille. So is this movie good, I say once oui, bon tre bon. I think this movie is an instant classic, and is one that does not just appeal to kids and most adults, but in particular to gourmets, which I am. This movie captures perfectly what it is like to be in love with food. It defines the dividing line between what is eating to survive and surviving to eat. About the only character I had a problem with is Linguine, which I didn't dig. The character didn't seem up to the standards of the others, and he does share the lead with Patton Oswalt's wonderful Remy the rat. Besides from that I literally loved every single second of this movie. From the beautiful animation, to the clever story line, to the interesting characters, it is one of the best animated films I have seen period. Some of the people who do voices may surprise you, not in the sense they are doing this film, but in the sense that I honestly (outside of Patton Oswalt) didn't know who did the voices until I looked it up, and was very surprised. This is particularly true of Janeane Garafalo who apparently doesn't have to sound like some whinny gen x'er who smokes too much all the time. Too sum things up, I have to say, any movie that can make rats cooking in a kitchen adorable, has to be good. Why? Because if you saw that in real life all the rats in this movie would be dead not cooking. So enjoy this flick maybe even make some ratatouille yourself, because as Gusteau says anyone can cook!

the three faces of eve

So I watched 1957's "the three faces of Eve" starring Joanne Woodward. So is this movie a classic, well I say yes but not emphatically. Ms. Woodward did win an academy award for her performance as three slightly different personalities inhabiting one body, also known as multiple personality disorder. So why not emphatic in my description of this film being classic, well that has to do with what the definition of classic is. To me something that is classic never goes out of style like coca-cola or a Porsche 911. They withstand the test of time and don't lose much if anything with age. Well this movie suffers from what a lot of older movies suffer from, in my opinion, that is that they are tame by today's standards. I found this to be the case with this movie. I can't help but to think if this movie was made today it would have some cursing, nudity, sex, and maybe some real dramatic moments instead of sort of muted safe ones. I also had a problem with the opening of this movie where they go out of the way to say this isn't loosely based on a real story but is in fact taken from actual events, and even transcripts. However, I read about the woman Eve is based on, and apparently this movie left out a lot and maybe changed some relevant things pertinent to her case. I think Joanne Woodward's portrayal of Eve in all her forms was o.k. I personally think Eddie Murphy did a much better job of portraying multiple characters in "the nutty professor", but where is his academy award. Huh I wan to know, it's all politics with the academy. So it's good, it's still watchable but it is not awesome, but being watchable 50 some odd years later does qualify a movie as a classic to some degree. I recommend watching it, but I've seen better old flicks.

easy a

So I watched 2010's "easy A", starring the current "I'm a smart complicated actress see I have brunette hair" chick, I mean Emma Stone. So far I have seen her in other movies playing basically the same character, such as "zombieland" (which I liked) and "the rocker" which gets an enthusiastic ehhhh. So is this a good movie, I say no. However, though I think the movie is much worse than I am going to admit, I am going to do a first and see this movie through someone else's eyes. I am going to think of this movie's target audience, chiefly mildly interesting and intelligent girls in their mid teens to early thirties. This movie got some pretty warm reviews from both people on imdb and critics. I didn't like it, I could see how this movie could have been good but just not to me. The parents played by Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson are the best part of the movie. They are the kind of parents I hope to be someday. They are warm, funny, and have an open honest relationship with their kids. The relationship between Thomas Hayden Church and his wife played by Lisa Kudrow is interesting and complex. I even appreciate the multiple homages to John Hughes and other 80's movies that are similar to this one. Overall though I just didn't say wow. But that brings us back to the target audience. Look if you are a female in the age range listed above (and even outside of this range( you will probably like this movie regardless of personal possibly esoteric movie standards. If you are someone enthralled by 80's teen movies you might get a kick out of this. If you like barely legal hot chicks and dudes playing high school kids you might satisfy your personal fetish. However, If you watch only weird indy flicks or a lot of action/thriller movies, you will either hate it or be like me and say "my life isn't better or worse for having seen this and I didn't try to commit ritual suicide during it, so ehhhhhhhhhh; but really mean eh (which is not as good as ehhhhhhhh.)

the runaways

So I watched the movie "the runaways" based on the book by Cherie Currie and released in 2010. So is it good, I say ehhh. It is an indy film and one that got some critical praise, but for me it was just o.k. This really sucks, I wanted to love this film because well it is a rock chick movie, with a very hot make-out scene involving a young Dakota Fanning (who is growing up before our eyes) and that depressing vampire chick Kristen Stewart, truly awesome music including the stooges and the sex pistols, and well in general sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll. So you think with that pedigree it would rock. And at first this movie did, but then it just got sort of boring (even with the drug abuse) toward the middle of the movie and just stayed that way, flat. The acting is pretty good, and the casting of Michael Shannon as Kim Fowley was perfect. If you want to get a sense of the real Kim Fowley watch a good documentary called "Mayor of the Sunset Strip" about Rodney Bingenheimer, who played a role in the runaways career as well. Some might find this movie awesome, and I would not discourage someone from watching it and forming their own opinion, but when I hit pause to go do the dishes when there is a fucked up Dakota Fanning in lingerie in front of me you know there has to be something missing.

the secret in their eyes.

So I saw "the secret in their eyes" from 2009. So is it good, I say Si! This movie is from Argentina and enlightened me in ways that I never knew possible, chiefly that Argentina has a film industry. Once I got past this shocking revelation I was ready to watch the movie. So this movie won awards all over the globe including the Oscar for best foreign film, and literally every award offered by the Argentinian film awards (which suggests to me maybe Argentina doesn't have a film industry so much as makes a movie a year). This movie was one of the best I have seen in years. It has flash backs that are actually purposeful and not confusing. It has humor. It has suspense. It has mystery. It has not one but two great love stories. It has violence. And it brought me into the world of Argentina, a world I am not that familiar with other than the rumors that Hitler is secretly living there. I loved this movie, from the first shot to the ending, that I thought would be all typical Hollywood bull crap, but surprised me completely and made me go "hmmmmm.. I did not see that coming," which is something I wish I could say more often with thrillers. This movie is a must see unless you hate subtitles. I can see Hollywood making a version of this and ruining it, so see it before Hollywood rapes and kills this movie. Oh and by the way that is the main plot of the movie (the rape and kill thing not the Hollywood thing) so if that makes you squeamish, that may be another reason not to see it.

how to train your dragon

So I saw "How to train your dragon", from 2010. So is it a good movie. Well the answer is no. O.K this movie is visually stunning, but with the evolotion of CGI, these incredible to look at movies are becoming common place. Also this is a kid's movie, and yeah if I was a small child I might think wow this is awesome, but I am not. There are movies which cross the divide between toddler and adult, for instance the original Shrek or even Shrek II (when the cops found a bag of catnip on puss'n'boots and he says "thats not mine" is just awesome). Hell, I even loved all three toy story movies. Granted you could say I have a problem with the kids all having American accents, but even if I accept this because it is a movie, why do the adult Vikings talk with Scottish accents. Shouldn't they sound more like the swedish chef from the muppets, now that's funny. This story will probably play over well with average people and kids. However, if you are an adult, and don't have a dragon fetish, this is just the same old story about how we don't always know someone, until we get to know them, and a monster is not always a monster. Unless I was planning to do some hallucinogens while listening to pink floyd, while this was on in the background, it is just not worth seeing. If you have a family or are not into truly interesting cinema maybe this movie is your cup of tea. If you are a hipster who enjoys movies like the original shrek, you will probably be disappointed.

dogtooth

So I saw the greek film "dogtooth" from 2009. Dogtooth was nominated for several awards including an oscar and won several other awards. So is this movie good. I found it to be extremely good and very refreshing. I have literally not seen anything even remotely like this film in my life. The story is beyond quirky, as well as perverted, sadistic, with moments that can make you feel a little squeamish, all without being a horror movie, in fact I found this movie to be very comical. The basic premise is about a family where the children have been isolated their entire lives from reality. The movie shows what happens when a father and mother team up to teach their children their own version of reality, including a vocabulary existing of well existing words, but with the family's own definition. For example keyboard means vagina in their world. I won't go into the incredibly complex plot or what happens, but I will say this movie touches on taboo subjects such as incest. So is this movie for everyone, HELL NO! This movie is not just somewhat cerebral it is both disturbing at times and highly avant-garde. This movie would best be enjoyed by those who are not shocked easily, and prefer cinema that is both artsy and original. If you are not one of these types, I cannot see you liking this film and may even be offended by it.

micmacs

So I watched the french movie from 2009 "Micmacs", directed by the very talented Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Jeunet has given us the cult classic delicatessen, the award winning Amelie, as well as several other great films. In looking over his biography I can't think of one of his films I did not like. He has a very unique style, like Burton or even Wes Anderson, in the sense that if you know his work at all you will know this is one of his films. Whether you knew this in advance or not. This was the case with me, I just heard it was good, but about 10 minutes in I just knew, it was a Jeunet, it had both his visual stamp and collection of odd characters. So is this movie good, I say "Oui"!, tre bien. This movie has a unique feel and look, it has an excellent plot, is wonderfully crafted, the characters are all unique and likable (except for the bad guys), and this movie tackles very relevant global issues, but does so without being heavy handed or obvious about it. It is in french with sub-titles. This is one of those movies that most people will never see, but could only benefit from being exposed to its humor, its artistry and, its message.