Truth be told, sometimes movies are made for no other reason than to be 2 hours of entertainment. And when you are lucky enough to see one, it's a good day.
Man On A Ledge is exactly that. It has no message. It is not a triumph in cinema. It doesn't push the envelope of any humor, bad taste, animation, or special effects. It has a decent cast, not a star studded red carpet blitz. And it simply is entertaining. Period!
Sam Worthington stars as a New York City cop who was framed for a crime he says he didn't commit, and goes to ail for 25 years. He escapes, and devises an elaborate scheme to prove hi innocence to the world. And it all begins when he walks out on a building ledge 25 floors up in Manhattan threatening to jump as the crowd cheers him on.
No one knows at first who he is, but as the whole ordeal unfolds it all starts to come together. His plan is to employ his brother and his brothers girlfriend to perpetrate a crime while our man in on the ledge. To be fair, the plot is a big thicker than that, but you'll want to see it play out for yourself. And you'll be entertained the whole time.
I will be the first to tell you, there are holes in this story, and a whole bunch of this is very convenient. And normally this would bother us. But here, it does not. It's just a movie that is in front of you, and isn't taking it self too seriously. For what this is, it is very compelling.
Look at the people in it. Worthington, Elizabeth Banks, Ed Burns, Ed Harris, and a nice supporting ensemble cast. Except of the horrible miscasting of the usually great Kyra Sedgwick. For some reason they cast her as a TV reporter with a Spanish accent. What were they doing? BUT, it's not a deal breaker.
I love the way this movie was filmed. Many cliffhanging shots from the ledge, with plenty of sweaty palm moments. You are up there on the ledge, and you do get a sense of just how desperate our hero is. Worthington is fresh and great. And for much of this movie you do feel his anguish. It all leads to a wonderful climactic scene that is pretty cool. The afterglow and epilogue though, do have a bit to be desired. Should have quit while they were ahead.
Man On A Ledge. It's not perfect. It's not even close. But it is entertaining.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - One For The Money
Low expectations are many times a very good thing when going to a movie. Mine were low for this one, the new Katherine Heigl flick, One For The Money.
Heigl is lovely. Always has been. But my fear has been that she has done every charming, cutesy thing on screen she was ever gonna do. I always thought that was Meg Ryan's downfall. She, for the most part was doing the same thing over and over. We eventually quit yawning, and fell sound asleep, and never woke up. From my seat, Heigl has been on that same road. But this is a bit different, and that's a good thing.
Heigl plays Stephanie Plumb. She has just been fired from Macy's as a lingerie salesman, and somehow ends up being a bounty hunter. This all transpires in about 5 days. Then somehow she shuts down a huge crime ring, saves the day, and becomes somewhat of a local hero. It's all so tidy and nice. I didn't say that this story was anywhere near realistic, or good. But Heigl seems different somehow.
As charming as she can be, we get a whole lot less cute here. A whole lot less, "Oh gosh, gee whiz, I can be physically funny at times," and that's refreshing. Here Heigl is a bit more earthy, and real. Oh, there is still the obligatory, "I'm naked and watch me cover up awkwardly" moment. And there still is a bit of, "Gee willikers watch me bumble a bit." But far less. Heigl here is a brunette, she is costumed well, and someone has convinced her a bit of reinvention was in order.
One For The Money makes a few good decisions. It doesn't go for huge laughs from scene to scene. And it doesn't write its dialogue in punchlines. Heigl seems to be asked to be more real, and not more funny. And that's a good choice. She is blessed with being natually funny. Here it just comes to her without being asked to carry the day. To be fair, I was thinking this was maybe going to be the nail in the slowly closing coffin for her. But I was surprised.
No this is not great, but this is more of a real movie.as opposed to a Katherine Heigl gag real funny fest. For January, we can live with this. There are certainly worse flicks on the way.
One For The Money. Story is shakey, but that's not why one person is going to this movie. They want to see Heigl. And Heigl seems to have steadied a listing ship.
Heigl is lovely. Always has been. But my fear has been that she has done every charming, cutesy thing on screen she was ever gonna do. I always thought that was Meg Ryan's downfall. She, for the most part was doing the same thing over and over. We eventually quit yawning, and fell sound asleep, and never woke up. From my seat, Heigl has been on that same road. But this is a bit different, and that's a good thing.
Heigl plays Stephanie Plumb. She has just been fired from Macy's as a lingerie salesman, and somehow ends up being a bounty hunter. This all transpires in about 5 days. Then somehow she shuts down a huge crime ring, saves the day, and becomes somewhat of a local hero. It's all so tidy and nice. I didn't say that this story was anywhere near realistic, or good. But Heigl seems different somehow.
As charming as she can be, we get a whole lot less cute here. A whole lot less, "Oh gosh, gee whiz, I can be physically funny at times," and that's refreshing. Here Heigl is a bit more earthy, and real. Oh, there is still the obligatory, "I'm naked and watch me cover up awkwardly" moment. And there still is a bit of, "Gee willikers watch me bumble a bit." But far less. Heigl here is a brunette, she is costumed well, and someone has convinced her a bit of reinvention was in order.
One For The Money makes a few good decisions. It doesn't go for huge laughs from scene to scene. And it doesn't write its dialogue in punchlines. Heigl seems to be asked to be more real, and not more funny. And that's a good choice. She is blessed with being natually funny. Here it just comes to her without being asked to carry the day. To be fair, I was thinking this was maybe going to be the nail in the slowly closing coffin for her. But I was surprised.
No this is not great, but this is more of a real movie.as opposed to a Katherine Heigl gag real funny fest. For January, we can live with this. There are certainly worse flicks on the way.
One For The Money. Story is shakey, but that's not why one person is going to this movie. They want to see Heigl. And Heigl seems to have steadied a listing ship.
Friday, January 27, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - The Grey
Over the past few years, Liam Neeson has reinvented himself as an action hero and had some real success. Taken, and Unknown come to mind, both very good and this week it's The Grey.
The Grey is a story of survival in the Arctic against all odds. Neeson's character and a bunch of what has to be called "thugs" are working for a major petroleum company high above the Arctic circle. As a plane load of them are leaving to come back down to the mainland, the plane crashes in the frozen tundra of what is either extreme northern Canada, or Alaska. A group of 7 men make it through the crash, and they are going to try to survive.
But in no mans land, they are confronted by terrible weather, blizzards, and cold. Plus giant man eating Northern Timber wolves that stalk the men endlessly. These wolf packs start picking off the men one by one as they try to leave the wreckage and somehow find help. Of course, there is conflict not only with nature, but the men with each other as they fight for control of their own pack. As the wolf pack gets in their heads, so do each other. Will they make it?
I wish they could get a do-over with this movie, because the idea is interesting enough. Just not the execution. The Grey is way too long, and way too elongated. Sandwiched between some real compelling movie making are some really long, drawn out scenes that don't make this better. Plus, a big thumbs down to the actual wolf attack scenes. They are extremely hard to see and follow. I know, this is maybe what a wolf attack would be like, highly chaotic and all, but as a movie goer we are having a difficult time following it. Has the feel of wanting to take a safer, less expensive way out in the movie making.
The Grey also loses some momentum a real lack decent character development. It simply is a series of semi-action scenes, and we are really not cheering for anyone at all. They are simply characters on screen. Plus, The Grey has an ending that may leave many cold. No pun intended.
Neeson is good as always,but it's a shame that most elements that surround him are adequate, or average at best. Yeah you can feel the cold, and but you really aren't drawn in to feel the terror. This is a pretty good idea, that falls short.
The Grey. Not bad by any means, but certainly not what it should have been.
The Grey is a story of survival in the Arctic against all odds. Neeson's character and a bunch of what has to be called "thugs" are working for a major petroleum company high above the Arctic circle. As a plane load of them are leaving to come back down to the mainland, the plane crashes in the frozen tundra of what is either extreme northern Canada, or Alaska. A group of 7 men make it through the crash, and they are going to try to survive.
But in no mans land, they are confronted by terrible weather, blizzards, and cold. Plus giant man eating Northern Timber wolves that stalk the men endlessly. These wolf packs start picking off the men one by one as they try to leave the wreckage and somehow find help. Of course, there is conflict not only with nature, but the men with each other as they fight for control of their own pack. As the wolf pack gets in their heads, so do each other. Will they make it?
I wish they could get a do-over with this movie, because the idea is interesting enough. Just not the execution. The Grey is way too long, and way too elongated. Sandwiched between some real compelling movie making are some really long, drawn out scenes that don't make this better. Plus, a big thumbs down to the actual wolf attack scenes. They are extremely hard to see and follow. I know, this is maybe what a wolf attack would be like, highly chaotic and all, but as a movie goer we are having a difficult time following it. Has the feel of wanting to take a safer, less expensive way out in the movie making.
The Grey also loses some momentum a real lack decent character development. It simply is a series of semi-action scenes, and we are really not cheering for anyone at all. They are simply characters on screen. Plus, The Grey has an ending that may leave many cold. No pun intended.
Neeson is good as always,but it's a shame that most elements that surround him are adequate, or average at best. Yeah you can feel the cold, and but you really aren't drawn in to feel the terror. This is a pretty good idea, that falls short.
The Grey. Not bad by any means, but certainly not what it should have been.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Red Tails
It opened to much bigger fanfare than most thought. Red Tails sails into theaters this week. And in many ways this is very refreshing.
Red Tails is based on true events of the famed Tuskegee Airmen from WWII. If you are not really sure who they are, during the war there was an "experiment" of trying to make African American men fighter pilots. The prevailing thought of the era was that they were not smart or brave enough to handle such a task during the war. The Airmen fought powerful enemies during he war, both foreign and domestic. There were plenty in this country against the whole idea.
Of course the Tuskegee Airmen became highly decorated during the war. Even though it took almost moving heaven and earth to get them forward missions, and not fly far behind the war itself. This is their story.
This stars a real nice ensemble cast, that includes Terrence Howard, and Cuba Gooding Jr. This movie for the most part very entertaining with a nice story to tell, and a decent script to back it all up. There are a few too many scenes in this movie with some rather silly dialogue. Plus, maybe a few too many characters. But that's not a deal breaker.
There are plenty of flying action scenes, done well, and it's fun to see some of these vintage aircraft such as B-17 Bombers, and P-40's and P-51 Mustangs. And it's great to see them fly. Some of these are done exceedingly well, and are very encompassing, with great sight and sound. They take you back to 1944 Italy during the war, and for the most part create a good sense of it.
But with that said, there lies within one of the weak links. Outside of the flying scenes, some of this looks like a movie set, and doesn't devour you, and totally transport you back in time. I see the set but I don't smell the gasoline, hear the roar, or totally feel the 1940's.
But one thing that may be the most refreshing is this. In this day and age of Transformers, computer generated aliens, monsters, cartoons, end of the world movies, and Hollywood for the most part portraying America as the worst nation on earth. It's great to see a movie that can fill you with pride. It's great to see these men. Against all odds, loved their country above all else. And even though it's a war that's been over for 67 years, and it is not a modern day story, it makes you feel good without being Top Gun silly. Plus this movie is good for virtually all ages to see, a PG-13 rating is very on target.
Red Tails. Well done. It's not perfect, but so what? A story worth telling, and makes you feel good about your night at the movies.
Red Tails is based on true events of the famed Tuskegee Airmen from WWII. If you are not really sure who they are, during the war there was an "experiment" of trying to make African American men fighter pilots. The prevailing thought of the era was that they were not smart or brave enough to handle such a task during the war. The Airmen fought powerful enemies during he war, both foreign and domestic. There were plenty in this country against the whole idea.
Of course the Tuskegee Airmen became highly decorated during the war. Even though it took almost moving heaven and earth to get them forward missions, and not fly far behind the war itself. This is their story.
This stars a real nice ensemble cast, that includes Terrence Howard, and Cuba Gooding Jr. This movie for the most part very entertaining with a nice story to tell, and a decent script to back it all up. There are a few too many scenes in this movie with some rather silly dialogue. Plus, maybe a few too many characters. But that's not a deal breaker.
There are plenty of flying action scenes, done well, and it's fun to see some of these vintage aircraft such as B-17 Bombers, and P-40's and P-51 Mustangs. And it's great to see them fly. Some of these are done exceedingly well, and are very encompassing, with great sight and sound. They take you back to 1944 Italy during the war, and for the most part create a good sense of it.
But with that said, there lies within one of the weak links. Outside of the flying scenes, some of this looks like a movie set, and doesn't devour you, and totally transport you back in time. I see the set but I don't smell the gasoline, hear the roar, or totally feel the 1940's.
But one thing that may be the most refreshing is this. In this day and age of Transformers, computer generated aliens, monsters, cartoons, end of the world movies, and Hollywood for the most part portraying America as the worst nation on earth. It's great to see a movie that can fill you with pride. It's great to see these men. Against all odds, loved their country above all else. And even though it's a war that's been over for 67 years, and it is not a modern day story, it makes you feel good without being Top Gun silly. Plus this movie is good for virtually all ages to see, a PG-13 rating is very on target.
Red Tails. Well done. It's not perfect, but so what? A story worth telling, and makes you feel good about your night at the movies.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
There is lots to discuss about the new movie, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. I was hoping much of the talk would be good. But it will not.
Right up front, if you're thinking you are going to a Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock movie, you are wrong. Very discouraging that they are not the stars of this movie. Hanks is probably on screen for about 15 minutes total, Bullock maybe 20. But in fairness to the movie makers, without those names at the top, no one would go see this. But cutting them that break from their perspective, it doesn't change the fact that they have manipulated most to go see a product that really doesn't exist. What a shame that finally Hanks and Bullock make a movie together, and it turns out to be less than challenging, and less than honest with us.
This movie really stars a young actor named Thomas Horn, who plays a young boy, Oskar, trying to come to terms with the death of his father (Hanks) in the September 11 attacks in the Twin Towers. They were very close and after his death, Oskar is lost. He is distanced emotionally too from his mother (Bullock). Oskar is peculiar kid, who claims he was tested for Aspergers Syndrome, but the tests were inconclusive, but he shows symptoms.
Oskar finds a key in his fathers closet a year after 911, and decides he is going on a search through New York City to find the lock it fits. He is also guarding secrets from September 11, that are eating him up, and he's having a difficult time coping. He meets many people along the way in his search who help him out. Will he find the lock, and feel closer to his father?
This was a big book, and probably should have stayed a book. This movie quite frankly is not very good. Most will feel lied to about who actually stars in it. And in the end, many will feel like they've been through something and wonder why. This movie thinks it's very smart, and it's not. The ending will leave many wondering why they came in the first place. 911 movies are tough still for the public to swallow. The few that have been out since, have had very lukewarm responses from the public. It's just tough to make movies about that tragic day. They just don't seem to work.
Horn is good in this very large role. The supporting cast is very well cast, but are poorly used. In addition to Hanks and Bullocks very limited screen time, same goes for the very talented Viola Davis who is on screen for a just a few short minutes. Horn dominates this movie from start to finish, with Max Van Sydow the actual co-star who is Oskar's grandfather. (No spoiler, you will figure that out long before they movie tells you.)
But who is going to buzz about going to see the new Thomas Horn and Max Van Sydow movie? Yeah, me either.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. Not very good.
Right up front, if you're thinking you are going to a Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock movie, you are wrong. Very discouraging that they are not the stars of this movie. Hanks is probably on screen for about 15 minutes total, Bullock maybe 20. But in fairness to the movie makers, without those names at the top, no one would go see this. But cutting them that break from their perspective, it doesn't change the fact that they have manipulated most to go see a product that really doesn't exist. What a shame that finally Hanks and Bullock make a movie together, and it turns out to be less than challenging, and less than honest with us.
This movie really stars a young actor named Thomas Horn, who plays a young boy, Oskar, trying to come to terms with the death of his father (Hanks) in the September 11 attacks in the Twin Towers. They were very close and after his death, Oskar is lost. He is distanced emotionally too from his mother (Bullock). Oskar is peculiar kid, who claims he was tested for Aspergers Syndrome, but the tests were inconclusive, but he shows symptoms.
Oskar finds a key in his fathers closet a year after 911, and decides he is going on a search through New York City to find the lock it fits. He is also guarding secrets from September 11, that are eating him up, and he's having a difficult time coping. He meets many people along the way in his search who help him out. Will he find the lock, and feel closer to his father?
This was a big book, and probably should have stayed a book. This movie quite frankly is not very good. Most will feel lied to about who actually stars in it. And in the end, many will feel like they've been through something and wonder why. This movie thinks it's very smart, and it's not. The ending will leave many wondering why they came in the first place. 911 movies are tough still for the public to swallow. The few that have been out since, have had very lukewarm responses from the public. It's just tough to make movies about that tragic day. They just don't seem to work.
Horn is good in this very large role. The supporting cast is very well cast, but are poorly used. In addition to Hanks and Bullocks very limited screen time, same goes for the very talented Viola Davis who is on screen for a just a few short minutes. Horn dominates this movie from start to finish, with Max Van Sydow the actual co-star who is Oskar's grandfather. (No spoiler, you will figure that out long before they movie tells you.)
But who is going to buzz about going to see the new Thomas Horn and Max Van Sydow movie? Yeah, me either.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. Not very good.
MOVIE REVIEW - Haywire
Lot's of movie this weekend, and no matter what the box office figures are, I think the real winner from the weekend will be the star of the new thriller, Haywire.
Gina Carano is ex-marine, now defense contractor operative Mallory Kane in this star studded winter time movie that is way better than it's January release date. Kane has been set up by someone to take the fall in the murder of person of interest she rescued in Europe. He is later found dead, and for some reason, someone wants her to take the blame for this international incident. And then they want her dead.
Haywire also stars, Micheal Douglas, Antonio Bandaras, Ewan McGregor, Channing Tatum and Bill Paxton. Great cast, all cast well. All seemingly hitching their wagon to the Carano wagon which they are betting is going full speed ahead.
Carano is a beautiful former Mixed Martial Arts Champion who has been in a few movies before, but not in a role like this. And this is refreshing too, all 5' 8" 150 pounds of her. This is no stick thin model/actress. Make no mistake, this is her movie. As Kane, she is a highly trained, and decorated operative with amazing skills. But don't be fooled, this is not some over-the-top, silly action movie. There is virtually no gun play in this movie, and it's not some special effects fest. Kane is a real person with real skills.
And Carano does it all herself. She is the real deal. She will stand way taller than all the other females so-called action stars who do none of the tough stuff. Carano is very believable and uses her own real life skills to give us some very good fight scenes. These scenes are very authentic. They are not laced with silly sound effects and dramatic music. They are just her and the guy who who's butt she's kicking. As Kane tries to flee Europe and clear her good name. Also, she trying to track down the double-crossers who set her up. These scenes are very good with real sounds, real reaction, and in real time. They are numerous and very well done. And she does it all.
They don't demand a ton from her in this movie as far as real, deep acting is concerned, but what they do ask, she gives it to them. They also don't sex this up too much, and that let's her credibility come through. She is naturally very sexy, and easy on the eye, but they don't exploit her and that's a great decision. The cast around her lifts her up and makes this really work. The door is open for more of this story to play out, that would be welcome.
If I was a female action movie star in Hollywood right now, I would be looking in the rear view mirror. Because Carano is coming, and she is real. She looks it, she plays it, and she is it. With respects to say, Angelina Jolie, Carano is the real deal. And not a actress waiting for the stunt people to make her look good.
Haywire. Regardless of the weekend take, a star is born in Gina Carano. She is an original.
Gina Carano is ex-marine, now defense contractor operative Mallory Kane in this star studded winter time movie that is way better than it's January release date. Kane has been set up by someone to take the fall in the murder of person of interest she rescued in Europe. He is later found dead, and for some reason, someone wants her to take the blame for this international incident. And then they want her dead.
Haywire also stars, Micheal Douglas, Antonio Bandaras, Ewan McGregor, Channing Tatum and Bill Paxton. Great cast, all cast well. All seemingly hitching their wagon to the Carano wagon which they are betting is going full speed ahead.
Carano is a beautiful former Mixed Martial Arts Champion who has been in a few movies before, but not in a role like this. And this is refreshing too, all 5' 8" 150 pounds of her. This is no stick thin model/actress. Make no mistake, this is her movie. As Kane, she is a highly trained, and decorated operative with amazing skills. But don't be fooled, this is not some over-the-top, silly action movie. There is virtually no gun play in this movie, and it's not some special effects fest. Kane is a real person with real skills.
And Carano does it all herself. She is the real deal. She will stand way taller than all the other females so-called action stars who do none of the tough stuff. Carano is very believable and uses her own real life skills to give us some very good fight scenes. These scenes are very authentic. They are not laced with silly sound effects and dramatic music. They are just her and the guy who who's butt she's kicking. As Kane tries to flee Europe and clear her good name. Also, she trying to track down the double-crossers who set her up. These scenes are very good with real sounds, real reaction, and in real time. They are numerous and very well done. And she does it all.
They don't demand a ton from her in this movie as far as real, deep acting is concerned, but what they do ask, she gives it to them. They also don't sex this up too much, and that let's her credibility come through. She is naturally very sexy, and easy on the eye, but they don't exploit her and that's a great decision. The cast around her lifts her up and makes this really work. The door is open for more of this story to play out, that would be welcome.
If I was a female action movie star in Hollywood right now, I would be looking in the rear view mirror. Because Carano is coming, and she is real. She looks it, she plays it, and she is it. With respects to say, Angelina Jolie, Carano is the real deal. And not a actress waiting for the stunt people to make her look good.
Haywire. Regardless of the weekend take, a star is born in Gina Carano. She is an original.
MOVIE REVIEW - The Artist
It's black and white, it's silent, and it's finally being shown locally. The Artist is here.
The Artist is quite frankly, sensational. It is so interesting, fresh, and new. If you are a movie goer that's always looking for something different at the movies this is for you. Isn't it ironic that what is today considered fresh, is a style of movie making that has been extinct since 1927 or so. It would be difficult for this movie to be more charming.
The Artist is the story of George Valentin (Jean Dujardin). He and his wonderful little Jack Russel dog (Uggie) are the undisputed kings of the silent movie era. They star in movie after movie thrilling movie goers. Then in 1927, the talking movies become reality. George dismisses it as a passing fad, and of course he is wrong. So he eventually loses everything through his pride, and the stock market crash of 1929.
Meet Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo). She is a younger actress who befriends George while working in silent movies. But she embraces the new era of talkies and becomes a big star. She also is in love with George, but never really makes it plain to him. So, can George survive his own pride, and the economy? And Will George and Peppy ever fall in love? That in it's most simple shell is The Artist.
This movie is wonderful. Filmed in beautiful, and palpable black and white it is hard to take your eyes off the screen. A fantastic orchestral musical soundtrack plays throughout, and that score will win the Oscar. And so will this movie. The Artist will more than likely win multiple Oscars. Hollywood loves to honor movies made about art, by artists, and showcasing their own industry. Many times that affection is misguided, but here it is apt. This movie is brilliant.
Dujardin and Bejo both totally create amazing characters on screen with no dialogue. You really get to know who George is, and who is isn't through Dujardin's amazing non verbal communication on screen. Same with Bejo, who would also be hard pressed to be more charming, and lovely in this role. Uggie the dog, is amazing, and is in virtually every single scene. He gives this movie an element that is paramount to it's success. He, along with the music help it's pacing.
I've heard some critics say that this is a great movie to take the kids to. And you certainly can. But remember, it's silent, and black and white. And of course, most kids today have never seen anything like this before. That is both the best reason, and possibly the worst reason to take them to this movie. Some may be enthralled, some could be totally non engaged. There is no animation, no special effects, or action. This is simply story telling.
The Artist. Simply fantastic. An achievement of the first order.
The Artist is quite frankly, sensational. It is so interesting, fresh, and new. If you are a movie goer that's always looking for something different at the movies this is for you. Isn't it ironic that what is today considered fresh, is a style of movie making that has been extinct since 1927 or so. It would be difficult for this movie to be more charming.
The Artist is the story of George Valentin (Jean Dujardin). He and his wonderful little Jack Russel dog (Uggie) are the undisputed kings of the silent movie era. They star in movie after movie thrilling movie goers. Then in 1927, the talking movies become reality. George dismisses it as a passing fad, and of course he is wrong. So he eventually loses everything through his pride, and the stock market crash of 1929.
Meet Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo). She is a younger actress who befriends George while working in silent movies. But she embraces the new era of talkies and becomes a big star. She also is in love with George, but never really makes it plain to him. So, can George survive his own pride, and the economy? And Will George and Peppy ever fall in love? That in it's most simple shell is The Artist.
This movie is wonderful. Filmed in beautiful, and palpable black and white it is hard to take your eyes off the screen. A fantastic orchestral musical soundtrack plays throughout, and that score will win the Oscar. And so will this movie. The Artist will more than likely win multiple Oscars. Hollywood loves to honor movies made about art, by artists, and showcasing their own industry. Many times that affection is misguided, but here it is apt. This movie is brilliant.
Dujardin and Bejo both totally create amazing characters on screen with no dialogue. You really get to know who George is, and who is isn't through Dujardin's amazing non verbal communication on screen. Same with Bejo, who would also be hard pressed to be more charming, and lovely in this role. Uggie the dog, is amazing, and is in virtually every single scene. He gives this movie an element that is paramount to it's success. He, along with the music help it's pacing.
I've heard some critics say that this is a great movie to take the kids to. And you certainly can. But remember, it's silent, and black and white. And of course, most kids today have never seen anything like this before. That is both the best reason, and possibly the worst reason to take them to this movie. Some may be enthralled, some could be totally non engaged. There is no animation, no special effects, or action. This is simply story telling.
The Artist. Simply fantastic. An achievement of the first order.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Carnage
Little movies, little movies. And the new Carnage is about as little as they get.
Oh don't get me wrong, there is a good cast. Jodie Foster, Christoph Waltz, John C. Reilly, and Kate Winslet. But Carnage is a 70 minute, one scene flick that will not appeal to the masses in anyway shape or form. This is strictly a movie goers movie. If you go to the movies a few times a year, this will not be for you.
Carnage is the story of two couples in New York City. One is a very blue-collar family and the other is a stuffy, uptown couple. Their 11 year-old sons get into a fight at the beginning of the flick. The stuffy kid hits the other kid in the face with a stick of some kind. The kid then is going to require some dental work and medical bills, but overall everyone is fine. The couples get together as parents would, and discuss the situation and decide what to do next. Including, money, and discipline, etc... And in that living room, is where it all goes wrong.
These four people are among the most troubled people you can imagine. This never ending conversation balloons into a long, drawn out conversation, that should have ended an hour ago, and has numerous chances to do so. They fall so far off track and past the point it's becomes destructive. The two couples start to drink, and air each others dirty laundry. This becomes a highly confrontational situation where everyone is judging everyone else. The drinks kick in, someone throws up and all become borderline irrational.
Does this sound interesting to you? Probably not. And this is going to have a very hard time finding an audience. This is like watching a play. It's all dialogue - period! Some of this is quite funny, as they roll in dark comedy and irony for while. And the entire theater howled when Kate Winslet threw up for about 30 straight seconds, which was designed for big laughs with it's total absurdity.
This will leave many cold. There is not real resolution to this within these four people. But there is loud social commentary. If you go, you'll see. But only go if you are brave. This is certainly not mainstream.
Carnage. Interesting idea. A laugh or two, but overall..not so sure.
Oh don't get me wrong, there is a good cast. Jodie Foster, Christoph Waltz, John C. Reilly, and Kate Winslet. But Carnage is a 70 minute, one scene flick that will not appeal to the masses in anyway shape or form. This is strictly a movie goers movie. If you go to the movies a few times a year, this will not be for you.
Carnage is the story of two couples in New York City. One is a very blue-collar family and the other is a stuffy, uptown couple. Their 11 year-old sons get into a fight at the beginning of the flick. The stuffy kid hits the other kid in the face with a stick of some kind. The kid then is going to require some dental work and medical bills, but overall everyone is fine. The couples get together as parents would, and discuss the situation and decide what to do next. Including, money, and discipline, etc... And in that living room, is where it all goes wrong.
These four people are among the most troubled people you can imagine. This never ending conversation balloons into a long, drawn out conversation, that should have ended an hour ago, and has numerous chances to do so. They fall so far off track and past the point it's becomes destructive. The two couples start to drink, and air each others dirty laundry. This becomes a highly confrontational situation where everyone is judging everyone else. The drinks kick in, someone throws up and all become borderline irrational.
Does this sound interesting to you? Probably not. And this is going to have a very hard time finding an audience. This is like watching a play. It's all dialogue - period! Some of this is quite funny, as they roll in dark comedy and irony for while. And the entire theater howled when Kate Winslet threw up for about 30 straight seconds, which was designed for big laughs with it's total absurdity.
This will leave many cold. There is not real resolution to this within these four people. But there is loud social commentary. If you go, you'll see. But only go if you are brave. This is certainly not mainstream.
Carnage. Interesting idea. A laugh or two, but overall..not so sure.
Monday, January 16, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Joyful Noise
Queen Latifah, and Dolly Parton are teamed up in this weeks new Joyful Noise.
Man, have the national and local critics been tough on this new adventure. I've even seen scores of D-. That's the reason I don't have a scoring system here in my reviews. I think they can jade people, without them reading further. I lay it out and you decide.
Joyful Noise you may have seen is the new music movie that is centered around a church choir that is battling to win a national competition musically. Latifah, and Parton play antagonistic characters that are struggling for control of the choir. There is also a young love, Romeo and Juliet story within involving our main characters daughter and grandson respectively. And a whole bunch of this is old and tired. A storyline that has been done to death.
So let's move on. I think you have to judge movies on exactly what they are. This is not for everyone. This movie is a niche movie. A certain kind of movie goer is going to go and like it. This is not for the bulk of most targeted movies. I find it difficult to imagine that a group of 20 year old boys are going to load up and see this. I think a good movie maker knows who is going, and zeroes in.
Joyful Noise has a lot of problems that the critics are talking about. The dialogue is terrible at times. Many characters talk in horrible cliche's. The acting, writing, and many of the scenes designed for big laughs are really not overly funny. And if you've seen the trailers, you've seen most of them. It also tries way too hard to be relevant. Reaching time and again to remind us that the economy is bad, blah blah. In short, a big bulk of this is not very good.
But it doesn't matter. What is good is the music, and the joy that is brought from watching talented people perform. Thankfully, there are a number of nice music and performance scenes here to wipe away some ills. It's good to hear Dolly sing some great spiritual songs. Latifah too, and many of the others. These scenes are spot on target for the core audience that will flock to see Joyful Noise.
There are worse things than to make movies that are good for virtually anyone to see. Or that families can see together. And thankfully, occasionally ones that are not animated with singing dogs, or plucky, dancing computer generated characters. Have we become to used to all that overused nonsense that there is no room for a good old family movie? Joyful Noise isn't designed to win Oscars, or Golden Globes. It's not going to change cinematic history, set box office records. So what? My gosh critics, quit looking down your elitist nose, and quit trying to be the smartest person in the room. It's a movie that knows whose going to see it, and serves them directly.
Is Joyful Noise great? It's not my favorite movie, but it's going to be enjoyed by a ton of people that don't care about Oscars, or cinematic history. It's simply to be enjoyed by those looking for something to go to, that will lift them up, and make them glad they went to the movies that day.
Joyful Noise. For what is isn't, it's got problems. But for what it is, and for those who go, they won't care. And I'm good with that.
Man, have the national and local critics been tough on this new adventure. I've even seen scores of D-. That's the reason I don't have a scoring system here in my reviews. I think they can jade people, without them reading further. I lay it out and you decide.
Joyful Noise you may have seen is the new music movie that is centered around a church choir that is battling to win a national competition musically. Latifah, and Parton play antagonistic characters that are struggling for control of the choir. There is also a young love, Romeo and Juliet story within involving our main characters daughter and grandson respectively. And a whole bunch of this is old and tired. A storyline that has been done to death.
So let's move on. I think you have to judge movies on exactly what they are. This is not for everyone. This movie is a niche movie. A certain kind of movie goer is going to go and like it. This is not for the bulk of most targeted movies. I find it difficult to imagine that a group of 20 year old boys are going to load up and see this. I think a good movie maker knows who is going, and zeroes in.
Joyful Noise has a lot of problems that the critics are talking about. The dialogue is terrible at times. Many characters talk in horrible cliche's. The acting, writing, and many of the scenes designed for big laughs are really not overly funny. And if you've seen the trailers, you've seen most of them. It also tries way too hard to be relevant. Reaching time and again to remind us that the economy is bad, blah blah. In short, a big bulk of this is not very good.
But it doesn't matter. What is good is the music, and the joy that is brought from watching talented people perform. Thankfully, there are a number of nice music and performance scenes here to wipe away some ills. It's good to hear Dolly sing some great spiritual songs. Latifah too, and many of the others. These scenes are spot on target for the core audience that will flock to see Joyful Noise.
There are worse things than to make movies that are good for virtually anyone to see. Or that families can see together. And thankfully, occasionally ones that are not animated with singing dogs, or plucky, dancing computer generated characters. Have we become to used to all that overused nonsense that there is no room for a good old family movie? Joyful Noise isn't designed to win Oscars, or Golden Globes. It's not going to change cinematic history, set box office records. So what? My gosh critics, quit looking down your elitist nose, and quit trying to be the smartest person in the room. It's a movie that knows whose going to see it, and serves them directly.
Is Joyful Noise great? It's not my favorite movie, but it's going to be enjoyed by a ton of people that don't care about Oscars, or cinematic history. It's simply to be enjoyed by those looking for something to go to, that will lift them up, and make them glad they went to the movies that day.
Joyful Noise. For what is isn't, it's got problems. But for what it is, and for those who go, they won't care. And I'm good with that.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Contraband
Mark Wahlberg back agaim, here comes the new drug running movie, Contraband.
Generally Wahlberg has been picking very good projects the past couple of years, and has developed a real nice following. Contraband though is a movie that in one way shape or form, you have seen a number of times before. There's nothing really wrong with this movie, I'm not so sure there's anything abnormally right with it.
Wahlberg play Chris. He was, at one time the worlds premiere smuggler. He could smuggle virtually anything into the United States via container ship. But after a long run of drug running, he gets out of the game and goes legit. He marries Kate (Kate Beckinsdale) and has a couple of kids. Then his much younger brother in-law who still is running drugs, screws up. And when about to be caught, tosses a 7 hundred thousand dollar load of cocaine overboard to save his won skin. Needless to say, the drug dealers want their money back.
That forces Chris back into the game. He is going to make a run to Panama, and make things right for his brother in law. Trouble is, who is working with him and against him? That is the eternal question that runs through the entire movie. He is operating on a deadline, as the dealers have vowed to take things out on his wife and kids, if not made right in time.
Contraband has a nice cast, including Giovanni Ribisi, and J.K. Simmons. This does have some real nice scenes where the authenticity is really stark, and real. But to counter that, there is much of this that is highly convenient. things just kind of "happen" with no real explanation. There is a bunch of this. And that gets a bit tiresome after a while. There are a number of holes in this story, and credibility does get compromised. But one thing this does very well is have a few real nice twists and turns that do give it a bit of smarts. With emphasis on a bit.
But in the end, Contraband is just another drug movie. But it's not an afternoon or evening wasted, but it falls short of being really, really good.
Generally Wahlberg has been picking very good projects the past couple of years, and has developed a real nice following. Contraband though is a movie that in one way shape or form, you have seen a number of times before. There's nothing really wrong with this movie, I'm not so sure there's anything abnormally right with it.
Wahlberg play Chris. He was, at one time the worlds premiere smuggler. He could smuggle virtually anything into the United States via container ship. But after a long run of drug running, he gets out of the game and goes legit. He marries Kate (Kate Beckinsdale) and has a couple of kids. Then his much younger brother in-law who still is running drugs, screws up. And when about to be caught, tosses a 7 hundred thousand dollar load of cocaine overboard to save his won skin. Needless to say, the drug dealers want their money back.
That forces Chris back into the game. He is going to make a run to Panama, and make things right for his brother in law. Trouble is, who is working with him and against him? That is the eternal question that runs through the entire movie. He is operating on a deadline, as the dealers have vowed to take things out on his wife and kids, if not made right in time.
Contraband has a nice cast, including Giovanni Ribisi, and J.K. Simmons. This does have some real nice scenes where the authenticity is really stark, and real. But to counter that, there is much of this that is highly convenient. things just kind of "happen" with no real explanation. There is a bunch of this. And that gets a bit tiresome after a while. There are a number of holes in this story, and credibility does get compromised. But one thing this does very well is have a few real nice twists and turns that do give it a bit of smarts. With emphasis on a bit.
But in the end, Contraband is just another drug movie. But it's not an afternoon or evening wasted, but it falls short of being really, really good.
MOVIE REVIEW - The Iron Lady
Someone needs to explain to me how Meryl Streep continues to get huge roles, and get an Oscar nomination seemingly every single year. Well, maybe the reason is pretty basic. She is possibly in the sum of all of her works, the greatest movie actress ever.
I have never been a big Streep fan, but I have always respected her talent. And here she takes on the gigantic role of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady. And she is magnificent. For the most part she plays an aged Thatcher at the end of her life, after her husbands Dennis' death, with dementia, and senility. But she does play Thatcher as the charismatic, powerful first ever woman PM of Great Britain.
The Iron Lady is a movie is good. Although, I feel the direction this movie takes is a bit questionable. Much of this shows the well past her prime Thatcher, and for me. And a little bit of that goes a long way. The scenes where she is the Thatcher we all knew in the 1980's and 1990's as PM, are far more compelling as we get to know exactly who she was as a politician. This movie is told in flashback form, weaving in and out of the aged Thatcher and the young, younger and more vibrant one.
Should be noted that huge kudos need to go to Alexandra Roach who plays the very young Thatcher in this movie, and she is also terrific. Hair, makeup, and costuming is incredibly spot on for both characters, it really is amazing. Streep is wonderful, and she has Thatcher down to a science. The bulk of the supporting cast is well cast, and solid.
For those hoping to recapture the magic of last years The Kings Speech, this is not on the same level. TIL is good, solid, and well done. But to be fair, Roach and Streep are far better than this movie. I know that sounds contradictory, but it's true. The script and direction of this piece for me, is very sullen, dark at times, flat out not as interesting as this great woman really was. I feel for a piece on such an important 20th century figure, they sold her short. Yes, they do at times showcase her political side, and what she had to deal with, but there is far more attention paid to her later years of dementia, and her hallucinations in her small flat well past her greatest years.
The Iron Lady. At times uplifting and insightful. But mostly a large opportunity missed. Roach and Streep's performances as stellar, but this movie can only muster a "good."
I have never been a big Streep fan, but I have always respected her talent. And here she takes on the gigantic role of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady. And she is magnificent. For the most part she plays an aged Thatcher at the end of her life, after her husbands Dennis' death, with dementia, and senility. But she does play Thatcher as the charismatic, powerful first ever woman PM of Great Britain.
The Iron Lady is a movie is good. Although, I feel the direction this movie takes is a bit questionable. Much of this shows the well past her prime Thatcher, and for me. And a little bit of that goes a long way. The scenes where she is the Thatcher we all knew in the 1980's and 1990's as PM, are far more compelling as we get to know exactly who she was as a politician. This movie is told in flashback form, weaving in and out of the aged Thatcher and the young, younger and more vibrant one.
Should be noted that huge kudos need to go to Alexandra Roach who plays the very young Thatcher in this movie, and she is also terrific. Hair, makeup, and costuming is incredibly spot on for both characters, it really is amazing. Streep is wonderful, and she has Thatcher down to a science. The bulk of the supporting cast is well cast, and solid.
For those hoping to recapture the magic of last years The Kings Speech, this is not on the same level. TIL is good, solid, and well done. But to be fair, Roach and Streep are far better than this movie. I know that sounds contradictory, but it's true. The script and direction of this piece for me, is very sullen, dark at times, flat out not as interesting as this great woman really was. I feel for a piece on such an important 20th century figure, they sold her short. Yes, they do at times showcase her political side, and what she had to deal with, but there is far more attention paid to her later years of dementia, and her hallucinations in her small flat well past her greatest years.
The Iron Lady. At times uplifting and insightful. But mostly a large opportunity missed. Roach and Streep's performances as stellar, but this movie can only muster a "good."
Thursday, January 12, 2012
2012 Movie Preview
Now that 2011 is over, we can move on to 2012 and a new year at the movies. 2011 overall was a weak year. A ton of factors are present in modern day movie making. Emphasis on animation and computer generation. And the over use of 3-D. Stars that are stars on paper only, and little or no emphasis on quality scripts.
Also, with the economy taking it's toll on everyone Hollywood is not immune. Many of the flicks debuting in 2011, had their roots in 2008 and 2009, the heart of the recession. So, hopefully 2012 will be a better year as far as quality is concerned. Let's see what 2012 has in store. We'll hit some of the highlights, in no particular order. And this is not all the movie of course, but this will give you an idea what is on the horizon.
Red Tails - January 20. Great cast. WWII story of African American fighter pilots. Looks compelling.
Batman The Dark Night Rises - Due out July 20. Word is it's the last installment of the Batman Trilogy. Anne Hathaway as Cat Woman.
The Lorax - Due out in March. Dr. Seuss story comes to the screen animated of course. Taylor Swift in the lead.. Should be visually wonderful.
Mirror, Mirror - March 16. Julia Roberts in a satirical look at Snow White, and word is there will be a Snow White craze this year. Looks fun. These concept movies are fence movies. They could go either way.
Snow White and the Huntsman - June 1.
Titanic 3-D - April 6. Same 1997 movie, only 3-D enhanced. Fans will love it.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 2 - We have to wait all the say will November 21st for this to finally be over, and the whole thing is through. Does anyone really think this is the total end?
The Bourne Legacy - August 3. Without Matt Damon, and Jason Bourne for that matter. Explain why please?
Men In Black - Smith and Jones are back again. New year, old ideas.
The Expendables - Again? Please!
Dark Shadows - Barnabas Collins in the hands of Tim Burton.
The Raven - John Cusack as Edgar Allen Poe. It's fiction, not a bio-pic.
This Mean War - February 17. Reece Witherspoon, Chris Pine and Tom Hardy. This could be really funny.
Haywire - January 20. A star will be born with mixed martial artist Gina Carano. She has all that is needed to really hit big! Great cast too.
Judge Dredd - September 21. Remake of the 1995 disaster. Why???? Why????
The Amazing Spiderman - July 3. The craze continues. Spiderman stories many never really die.
The Gangster Squad - October 20. Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, Nick Nolte, Sean Penn, and the backdrop of 1940's Los Angeles. Mob and cop movie. Huge buzz about this.
World War Z - Brad Pitt's trouble filled movie December 21.
The Great Gatsby - Leo DiCaprio. A role he was born to play. And yes, it's the F. Scott Fitzgerald classic Story. December 25.
The Avengers - May. Filmed in Cleveland, tons of superhero's teaming up!
This is just a taste. Check back each month and I'll preview each month. and check out all my reviews too at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Also, with the economy taking it's toll on everyone Hollywood is not immune. Many of the flicks debuting in 2011, had their roots in 2008 and 2009, the heart of the recession. So, hopefully 2012 will be a better year as far as quality is concerned. Let's see what 2012 has in store. We'll hit some of the highlights, in no particular order. And this is not all the movie of course, but this will give you an idea what is on the horizon.
Red Tails - January 20. Great cast. WWII story of African American fighter pilots. Looks compelling.
Batman The Dark Night Rises - Due out July 20. Word is it's the last installment of the Batman Trilogy. Anne Hathaway as Cat Woman.
The Lorax - Due out in March. Dr. Seuss story comes to the screen animated of course. Taylor Swift in the lead.. Should be visually wonderful.
Mirror, Mirror - March 16. Julia Roberts in a satirical look at Snow White, and word is there will be a Snow White craze this year. Looks fun. These concept movies are fence movies. They could go either way.
Snow White and the Huntsman - June 1.
Titanic 3-D - April 6. Same 1997 movie, only 3-D enhanced. Fans will love it.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 2 - We have to wait all the say will November 21st for this to finally be over, and the whole thing is through. Does anyone really think this is the total end?
The Bourne Legacy - August 3. Without Matt Damon, and Jason Bourne for that matter. Explain why please?
Men In Black - Smith and Jones are back again. New year, old ideas.
The Expendables - Again? Please!
Dark Shadows - Barnabas Collins in the hands of Tim Burton.
The Raven - John Cusack as Edgar Allen Poe. It's fiction, not a bio-pic.
This Mean War - February 17. Reece Witherspoon, Chris Pine and Tom Hardy. This could be really funny.
Haywire - January 20. A star will be born with mixed martial artist Gina Carano. She has all that is needed to really hit big! Great cast too.
Judge Dredd - September 21. Remake of the 1995 disaster. Why???? Why????
The Amazing Spiderman - July 3. The craze continues. Spiderman stories many never really die.
The Gangster Squad - October 20. Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, Nick Nolte, Sean Penn, and the backdrop of 1940's Los Angeles. Mob and cop movie. Huge buzz about this.
World War Z - Brad Pitt's trouble filled movie December 21.
The Great Gatsby - Leo DiCaprio. A role he was born to play. And yes, it's the F. Scott Fitzgerald classic Story. December 25.
The Avengers - May. Filmed in Cleveland, tons of superhero's teaming up!
This is just a taste. Check back each month and I'll preview each month. and check out all my reviews too at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
The Five Most Disappointing Movies of 2011
This is the final year-end list I will compile this year. After the Five Best, Five Worst, and Five Biggest Surprises, thought this one was in order. The Five Most Disappointing Movies of 2011. Movies that are not bad per say, just maybe over hyped, or just flat out not near as good as they were touted or should have been.
Sometimes movies can be bitten by too much hype and expectation. And sometimes the cast is so good, but the script is so bad. After seeing about 150 movies last year, there certainly were some disappointments, so let's go. To be on this list, all movies had to be released in the calender year 2011, and be in local theaters.
The Five Most Disappointing Movies of 2011
1/ Super 8 - All that publicity, and all those TV commercials. Steven Spielberg produced it, and it looked like a real nice period piece back to the 1970's. This story though completely abandoned the whole "Super 8" premise halfway through, and became ET on steroids. Could possibly be the biggest dud ending to a big budget movie in years. In the end, it's not an afternoon wasted, but it certainly could have been better spent.
2/ Larry Crowne - I wanted to like this movie real bad. Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts together in a romantic comedy for grown-ups. Seemed like a good idea. Just because you toss them together doesn't mean it's going to be great. Really average, and really off target at times, with it trying to be all things to all people. Too many characters, and too many awkward scenes. Plus, they asked Roberts to do some physical comedy. Bad move! Ho-hum.
3/ Contagion - I think saw more TV ads for this than any other movie this year. And for what? A remake of a mid 1990's flick called Outbreak. A killer virus spreading all over the place and what will we do? This was laughably bad in spots, and not one scene is the slightest bit riveting, or interesting. Tons of good people in it. But one bad writing job kills the whole thing. Tough year for Gwenyth Paltrow. First, Country Strong and then this. Sheesh!
4/ The Big Year - Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson in a movie about competitive birdwatching. Some critics were on the record saying that this was the funniest movie in years. Truth be told, I don't think they saw it, and I'm not kidding. Not a single real laugh in a full theater on opening day. This was just a bad idea. Really bad idea.
5/ Sanctum - Just because James Cameron (maker of Titanic) makes a movie, doesn't make it good. And this isn't. If you want to see a ton of underwater photography this is your movie. But after about 20 minutes of that, you're tired of it. And the the "Cameron Curse." After you've shown all your toys, and special effects, oh yeah, you've gotta have a story. And this one stinks. Again, Cameron plenty of sizzle, just a shoe leather steak.
There you have it. Make sure you check out all my movie reviews every week right here. Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts too scott@wqmx.com
Sometimes movies can be bitten by too much hype and expectation. And sometimes the cast is so good, but the script is so bad. After seeing about 150 movies last year, there certainly were some disappointments, so let's go. To be on this list, all movies had to be released in the calender year 2011, and be in local theaters.
The Five Most Disappointing Movies of 2011
1/ Super 8 - All that publicity, and all those TV commercials. Steven Spielberg produced it, and it looked like a real nice period piece back to the 1970's. This story though completely abandoned the whole "Super 8" premise halfway through, and became ET on steroids. Could possibly be the biggest dud ending to a big budget movie in years. In the end, it's not an afternoon wasted, but it certainly could have been better spent.
2/ Larry Crowne - I wanted to like this movie real bad. Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts together in a romantic comedy for grown-ups. Seemed like a good idea. Just because you toss them together doesn't mean it's going to be great. Really average, and really off target at times, with it trying to be all things to all people. Too many characters, and too many awkward scenes. Plus, they asked Roberts to do some physical comedy. Bad move! Ho-hum.
3/ Contagion - I think saw more TV ads for this than any other movie this year. And for what? A remake of a mid 1990's flick called Outbreak. A killer virus spreading all over the place and what will we do? This was laughably bad in spots, and not one scene is the slightest bit riveting, or interesting. Tons of good people in it. But one bad writing job kills the whole thing. Tough year for Gwenyth Paltrow. First, Country Strong and then this. Sheesh!
4/ The Big Year - Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson in a movie about competitive birdwatching. Some critics were on the record saying that this was the funniest movie in years. Truth be told, I don't think they saw it, and I'm not kidding. Not a single real laugh in a full theater on opening day. This was just a bad idea. Really bad idea.
5/ Sanctum - Just because James Cameron (maker of Titanic) makes a movie, doesn't make it good. And this isn't. If you want to see a ton of underwater photography this is your movie. But after about 20 minutes of that, you're tired of it. And the the "Cameron Curse." After you've shown all your toys, and special effects, oh yeah, you've gotta have a story. And this one stinks. Again, Cameron plenty of sizzle, just a shoe leather steak.
There you have it. Make sure you check out all my movie reviews every week right here. Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts too scott@wqmx.com
Monday, January 9, 2012
Top Five Most Surprising Movies 0f 2011
I see about 150 movies a year, and to be fair there are far more mediocre ones than really good ones. Some think that movie making may be at an all time low as far as sheer quality is concerned, and there may be something to that. So much emphasis on special effects, animation, and computer generated movies. Many times the story, acting, casting and the overall plot to many movies is cast aside.
I love seeing movies that seem to come out of nowhere and really hit home. And that's what this list is all about. Movies that really surprised the public, and the critics and scored well at the movies. To be on this list all movies had to be released to local theaters in the calender year 2011.
The Five Most Surprising Movies of 2011
1/ The Way - What a wonderful little movie about a fathers love for his son. Martin Sheen stars in a movie written and directed by his son, Emilio Estevez. A father takes a remarkable walking, spiritual journey in Europe in honor of his son who died on the same walk a few weeks earlier. Why does he really make the walk? And what does he hope to discover about himself and those around him? Great story, filmed well, and totally compelling.
2/ Real Steel - Hugh Jackman starred in this futuristic robot boxing movie. I know, it sounds really strange, but this is nothing except real fun. I, and most expected a real bomb, but this is fun. You cheer for it and Jackman is great. Special kudos to Evangeline Lilly who is fantastic as the only woman in this movie. She makes it much better than it may have been without her. Great casting. Good for all to see.
3/ Warrior - I am not a Mixed Martial Arts fan at all. But this movie is splendid! Nick Nolte leads a perfectly chosen cast, and stars in this movie that although is a sports movie in theory, is so much more. This may be the best casted movie of the year. Everyone in Warrior is completely believable. This is a movie about family and honor, and should have found a bigger following than it did. Warrior is emotional and though all at the same time. Well done!
4/ Everything Must Go - I am not a Will Farrel fan either, but this little gem of a movie is really good. It's Farrel as you've never seen him. A man who has lost everything in life and love. He sets out to start all over again. It's a dark comedy to a degree, and is so surprising that Farrel can actually do good work if called on to do so. Here, he's an actor and not Will Farrel. A good rental.
5/ The Source Code - A very compelling story that looked tired and overdone in it's trailers. But this story with its good cast of Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga turns out to be totally original and well paced. Monaghan needs to make more movies. She is one of Hollywood's best kept secrets. I love everything about her on screen.
Honorable mentions
Cedar Rapids - Incredibly funny, very adult and quirky movie lampooning the insurance industry.
Captain America - Best superhero movie in a long time.
Puss In Boots - Antonio Bandaras is hilarious as the over the top swashbuckling cat. Might be the new standard for animated movies.
There you have is the Five Most Surprising Movies of 2011. Look for the Five Best and Five Worst list here, and also be looking for the Five Most Disappointing Movies coming later this week right here at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts too at scott@wqmx.com
I love seeing movies that seem to come out of nowhere and really hit home. And that's what this list is all about. Movies that really surprised the public, and the critics and scored well at the movies. To be on this list all movies had to be released to local theaters in the calender year 2011.
The Five Most Surprising Movies of 2011
1/ The Way - What a wonderful little movie about a fathers love for his son. Martin Sheen stars in a movie written and directed by his son, Emilio Estevez. A father takes a remarkable walking, spiritual journey in Europe in honor of his son who died on the same walk a few weeks earlier. Why does he really make the walk? And what does he hope to discover about himself and those around him? Great story, filmed well, and totally compelling.
2/ Real Steel - Hugh Jackman starred in this futuristic robot boxing movie. I know, it sounds really strange, but this is nothing except real fun. I, and most expected a real bomb, but this is fun. You cheer for it and Jackman is great. Special kudos to Evangeline Lilly who is fantastic as the only woman in this movie. She makes it much better than it may have been without her. Great casting. Good for all to see.
3/ Warrior - I am not a Mixed Martial Arts fan at all. But this movie is splendid! Nick Nolte leads a perfectly chosen cast, and stars in this movie that although is a sports movie in theory, is so much more. This may be the best casted movie of the year. Everyone in Warrior is completely believable. This is a movie about family and honor, and should have found a bigger following than it did. Warrior is emotional and though all at the same time. Well done!
4/ Everything Must Go - I am not a Will Farrel fan either, but this little gem of a movie is really good. It's Farrel as you've never seen him. A man who has lost everything in life and love. He sets out to start all over again. It's a dark comedy to a degree, and is so surprising that Farrel can actually do good work if called on to do so. Here, he's an actor and not Will Farrel. A good rental.
5/ The Source Code - A very compelling story that looked tired and overdone in it's trailers. But this story with its good cast of Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga turns out to be totally original and well paced. Monaghan needs to make more movies. She is one of Hollywood's best kept secrets. I love everything about her on screen.
Honorable mentions
Cedar Rapids - Incredibly funny, very adult and quirky movie lampooning the insurance industry.
Captain America - Best superhero movie in a long time.
Puss In Boots - Antonio Bandaras is hilarious as the over the top swashbuckling cat. Might be the new standard for animated movies.
There you have is the Five Most Surprising Movies of 2011. Look for the Five Best and Five Worst list here, and also be looking for the Five Most Disappointing Movies coming later this week right here at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts too at scott@wqmx.com
Sunday, January 8, 2012
The Five Worst Movies Of 2011
Every year there are clunkers at the movies. But this year, there were a huge amount of really bad movies. And some had some very popular stars. This year the really bad movies were not the typical horrible slasher flicks, but actually movies that were made to be real movies, with people you know.
It was not real hard to put together the Best Movie list this week. That basket was not near full, and had few to choose from. But the Worst Movie list was way harder. That basket was overflowing this year.
I see about 150 movies a year, and I see them in the same theaters you do. So to be on this list, movies have to be in general release and shown in local theaters. This is always a fun list to talk about.
The Five Worst Movies of 2011
1/ I Don't Know How She Does It - Sarah Jessica Parker and a real nice sounding cast in this
absolute travesty of an idea. They attempted to show you a typical working mom and
how she balances it all. Problem is, she is a privileged, wealthy East Coast woman
that is not even remotely relatable to 99 percent of women anywhere. Parker is beyond
horrible in this movie as is the story, writing, and the whole idea. I am not sure this
could have been any worse if they tried. Nauseating.
2/ New Years Eve - Too bad that Sarah Jessica Parker also stars in this hunk of junk. But so
do a ton of other "big names" in this insultingly horrible idea. This movie also has 3
Oscar winners in it that had no business even going to this movie, let alone starring in
it (Halle Berry, Hilary Swank, and Robert De Niro). This was so bad, it was almost
walk out worthy. Please stop making these "star" loaded movies. No one cares about them, and more and more no one is going to them. And stop embarrassing yourselves. What was Hilary Swank thiking? 2 time Oscar winner, holy cow!
3/ One Day - The lovely Anne Hathaway somehow was talked into this piece of absolute trash.
This is a "love story" that takes place over a 20 year span, and the whole time you know
this is going no where, and worse, you don't care. Plus, she gets hit by a truck at the end. So there you go, you don't have to rent it. You will be pretty ticked off that this is your payoff for trudging through this mess. This was supposed to be emotional and it was. It made most everyone mad at themselves for paying to go see it.
4/ Your Highness - For heavens sake. How really terrible is this? I mean really. Not really worthy of much here. If you want to see bad, crude, vile, and 7th grade locker room humor for 2 hours as acted out by adult men and women. This is your movie. Oh, what some people will do for a paycheck.
5/ Country Strong - We have to go all the way back to January for this one. Gwenyth Paltrow as a washed up country singer who's on drugs trying to make a comeback. She is miserably miscast. The writing is abysmal, the ending is horrible, and the idea is so overdone, and unoriginal it loses all the way around. Music is good as Nashville held up its end. But the rest of this is a disaster. Plus, after paying Paltrow, there must have not been any money left, because this whole project looks amateurish, and underfunded. With the huge concert scene looking like it was filmed in someones garage.
There they are, the Five Worst Movies of 2011! I know there are tons more this year that were worthy of this list. Share your thoughts with me scott@wqmx.com .
Also, check out my Five Best List, and be looking for the Five Biggest Surprise Movies of 2011, and the Five Biggest Disappointing Movies of 2011 coming this week. All will be found at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
It was not real hard to put together the Best Movie list this week. That basket was not near full, and had few to choose from. But the Worst Movie list was way harder. That basket was overflowing this year.
I see about 150 movies a year, and I see them in the same theaters you do. So to be on this list, movies have to be in general release and shown in local theaters. This is always a fun list to talk about.
The Five Worst Movies of 2011
1/ I Don't Know How She Does It - Sarah Jessica Parker and a real nice sounding cast in this
absolute travesty of an idea. They attempted to show you a typical working mom and
how she balances it all. Problem is, she is a privileged, wealthy East Coast woman
that is not even remotely relatable to 99 percent of women anywhere. Parker is beyond
horrible in this movie as is the story, writing, and the whole idea. I am not sure this
could have been any worse if they tried. Nauseating.
2/ New Years Eve - Too bad that Sarah Jessica Parker also stars in this hunk of junk. But so
do a ton of other "big names" in this insultingly horrible idea. This movie also has 3
Oscar winners in it that had no business even going to this movie, let alone starring in
it (Halle Berry, Hilary Swank, and Robert De Niro). This was so bad, it was almost
walk out worthy. Please stop making these "star" loaded movies. No one cares about them, and more and more no one is going to them. And stop embarrassing yourselves. What was Hilary Swank thiking? 2 time Oscar winner, holy cow!
3/ One Day - The lovely Anne Hathaway somehow was talked into this piece of absolute trash.
This is a "love story" that takes place over a 20 year span, and the whole time you know
this is going no where, and worse, you don't care. Plus, she gets hit by a truck at the end. So there you go, you don't have to rent it. You will be pretty ticked off that this is your payoff for trudging through this mess. This was supposed to be emotional and it was. It made most everyone mad at themselves for paying to go see it.
4/ Your Highness - For heavens sake. How really terrible is this? I mean really. Not really worthy of much here. If you want to see bad, crude, vile, and 7th grade locker room humor for 2 hours as acted out by adult men and women. This is your movie. Oh, what some people will do for a paycheck.
5/ Country Strong - We have to go all the way back to January for this one. Gwenyth Paltrow as a washed up country singer who's on drugs trying to make a comeback. She is miserably miscast. The writing is abysmal, the ending is horrible, and the idea is so overdone, and unoriginal it loses all the way around. Music is good as Nashville held up its end. But the rest of this is a disaster. Plus, after paying Paltrow, there must have not been any money left, because this whole project looks amateurish, and underfunded. With the huge concert scene looking like it was filmed in someones garage.
There they are, the Five Worst Movies of 2011! I know there are tons more this year that were worthy of this list. Share your thoughts with me scott@wqmx.com .
Also, check out my Five Best List, and be looking for the Five Biggest Surprise Movies of 2011, and the Five Biggest Disappointing Movies of 2011 coming this week. All will be found at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
The Five Best Movies of 2011
2011 at the movies was overall not a really great year as far as the quality of the movies. There were a ton of really big box office success stories, and people did flock to the flicks. There was seemingly more than ever, animated, and computer generated movies that drew tons of young viewers. And some real nice independent small movies that really found some traction and created a a buzz, and an audience.
I think the thing that was really lacking from 2011, was the gigantic Christmas season as far as the 2 or 3 movies that were above the rest. But this year there were flicks throughout the year that have made this list.
To be on this list, movies had to be in general release during the calender year of 2011, and in local theaters.
So let's check out my top five movies of 2011.
1/ Moneyball - Brad Pitt was so good in this flick he should be a favorite for the Oscar. Great
story, told well, and fantastic performances from Jonah Hill and the rest. This
is far more than a baseball movie, it is a real story of real people. This also has
I feel the most moving scene of the year when our lead characters 12 year old
daughter sings to her dad in the music store with a guitar she is about to get
for her birthday. Everything about this movie is interesting. Well done!
2/ Midnight In Paris - What a fantastic movie from Woody Allen. This story is so original, and
you can't help but love it. Owen Wilson is the new on screen Woody
Allen too. This is skillfully done, way fun, and makes you feel about as good as
you can at the movies. It may be on of the biggest surprises at the movies in
many years.
3/ The Help - In August this movie took the box office by storm, and found a huge audience.
All performances were exceptional. Emma Stone broke through and
shed the young actress label in young movies and really owned this grown up
role in a real movie. Original story, told brilliantly. This is the reason we like
to go to the movies.
4/ The Descendants - When George Clooney simply is a movie star, and not directing or
writing the movie, they are better. This is a very quirky and great story, and he
is great. Oscar nomination worthy, and a story no one else has really told before.
5/ Young Adult - I applaud bold movie making. And this is. This movie dares to take on a very
concerning topic of a young generation that is perceived by many as immature
and unmotivated, at a time society needs them to grow up. Charlize Theron
is brilliant, and will certainly be Oscar nominated. It's her flick.
She makes a bold script, absolutely fantastic and compelling.
There you have it, the five best movies of 2011. Understanding completely that there are many other great flicks out there. You can check out my list of Five Worst Movies of 2011, also the Five Biggest Surprise Movies of 2011, and the Five Biggest Disappointing Movies of 2011. All Can be found at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts at scott@wqmx.com
I think the thing that was really lacking from 2011, was the gigantic Christmas season as far as the 2 or 3 movies that were above the rest. But this year there were flicks throughout the year that have made this list.
To be on this list, movies had to be in general release during the calender year of 2011, and in local theaters.
So let's check out my top five movies of 2011.
1/ Moneyball - Brad Pitt was so good in this flick he should be a favorite for the Oscar. Great
story, told well, and fantastic performances from Jonah Hill and the rest. This
is far more than a baseball movie, it is a real story of real people. This also has
I feel the most moving scene of the year when our lead characters 12 year old
daughter sings to her dad in the music store with a guitar she is about to get
for her birthday. Everything about this movie is interesting. Well done!
2/ Midnight In Paris - What a fantastic movie from Woody Allen. This story is so original, and
you can't help but love it. Owen Wilson is the new on screen Woody
Allen too. This is skillfully done, way fun, and makes you feel about as good as
you can at the movies. It may be on of the biggest surprises at the movies in
many years.
3/ The Help - In August this movie took the box office by storm, and found a huge audience.
All performances were exceptional. Emma Stone broke through and
shed the young actress label in young movies and really owned this grown up
role in a real movie. Original story, told brilliantly. This is the reason we like
to go to the movies.
4/ The Descendants - When George Clooney simply is a movie star, and not directing or
writing the movie, they are better. This is a very quirky and great story, and he
is great. Oscar nomination worthy, and a story no one else has really told before.
5/ Young Adult - I applaud bold movie making. And this is. This movie dares to take on a very
concerning topic of a young generation that is perceived by many as immature
and unmotivated, at a time society needs them to grow up. Charlize Theron
is brilliant, and will certainly be Oscar nominated. It's her flick.
She makes a bold script, absolutely fantastic and compelling.
There you have it, the five best movies of 2011. Understanding completely that there are many other great flicks out there. You can check out my list of Five Worst Movies of 2011, also the Five Biggest Surprise Movies of 2011, and the Five Biggest Disappointing Movies of 2011. All Can be found at http://www.akronnewsnow.com/entertainment/movies
Feel free to e-mail me your thoughts at scott@wqmx.com
Saturday, January 7, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - The Devil Inside
New this week, and ripping everybody off is the new docu-drama, demonic possession flick, The Devil Inside. I'm going to be up front. I am going to rip this movie to shreds.
This filmed in the same way Paranormal Activity is. You know, point of view, third person holding the camera. Lot's of really gullible people thinking this is real. Who these people are that think this are amazing to me. And after you sit through the vomitus 75 minutes of garbage, it ends up being a movie commercial for a website. Just like Apollo 18 did. Again, this is a commercial for a website. There is resolution here. I don't care about a spoiler alert here.
There have been tons of demonic possession movies made throughout the years. Many of them quite good. With compelling stories, characters, good actors and a plot. Not this one. TDI is simply an excuse for young film makers to make movies for young adults, that destroy the envelope of any kind of decency, or taste. I'm sure their mothers are so proud.
In this heap of junk, you have to watch things that are so utterly distasteful it amazes me that someone really thinks this stuff up. Nothing wrong with jolting, scary or envelope pushing, but shredding the envelope because you can doesn't make your point. It shows your complete immaturity as a person, and a film maker. But, sadly...cha-ching.
I know, we've become desensitized to this stuff, and we can see worse on TV at home. To me that's a cop out. Let me ask you. Do you want to pay 10 bucks to go in and see an actor playing a young priest in Rome, try to forcefully drown a newborn baby during a baptism in church? I didn't think so. But you will if you go. I'm not going to listen to the desensitizing argument here. That is just bad taste squared, and horrific judgment to the third power.
Theater goers should be completely offended that this and many other totally disgusting decisions are made here. And besides the terrible decisions, there is not one ounce of originality. And it's all for naught. Because there is no point, no story, and the ending had the entire theater I was in angry. A commercial for a website is the payoff. And I hate to break it to you....it's not real or true.
The Devil Inside. Already on my list of the worst movies of 2012. Or any other year. Save your money.
This filmed in the same way Paranormal Activity is. You know, point of view, third person holding the camera. Lot's of really gullible people thinking this is real. Who these people are that think this are amazing to me. And after you sit through the vomitus 75 minutes of garbage, it ends up being a movie commercial for a website. Just like Apollo 18 did. Again, this is a commercial for a website. There is resolution here. I don't care about a spoiler alert here.
There have been tons of demonic possession movies made throughout the years. Many of them quite good. With compelling stories, characters, good actors and a plot. Not this one. TDI is simply an excuse for young film makers to make movies for young adults, that destroy the envelope of any kind of decency, or taste. I'm sure their mothers are so proud.
In this heap of junk, you have to watch things that are so utterly distasteful it amazes me that someone really thinks this stuff up. Nothing wrong with jolting, scary or envelope pushing, but shredding the envelope because you can doesn't make your point. It shows your complete immaturity as a person, and a film maker. But, sadly...cha-ching.
I know, we've become desensitized to this stuff, and we can see worse on TV at home. To me that's a cop out. Let me ask you. Do you want to pay 10 bucks to go in and see an actor playing a young priest in Rome, try to forcefully drown a newborn baby during a baptism in church? I didn't think so. But you will if you go. I'm not going to listen to the desensitizing argument here. That is just bad taste squared, and horrific judgment to the third power.
Theater goers should be completely offended that this and many other totally disgusting decisions are made here. And besides the terrible decisions, there is not one ounce of originality. And it's all for naught. Because there is no point, no story, and the ending had the entire theater I was in angry. A commercial for a website is the payoff. And I hate to break it to you....it's not real or true.
The Devil Inside. Already on my list of the worst movies of 2012. Or any other year. Save your money.
MOVIE REVIEW - Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
Gary Oldman and a real nice cast hit the screen this week in the very complicated, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Let me be the first to tell you, this is a movie with limited appeal and is not an action movie by today's standards. And that's a good thing.
TTSS, is based on a 1974 novel that dives deeply into British Intelligence during the Cold War. The very basic premise is, there is a suspected Soviet "mole" in the highest realm of Western Intelligence. This spy of course is a double agent that supposedly is stealing intel, and sending it to the Eastern Block. And the search is on to find him by the West. And that paragraph therein, lies the first hurdle as a movie goer.
You must have some, if not a lot of knowledge of everything I just mentioned, which rules out a ton of people. Many have grown up in a world where this was never a part of their lives. TTSS is totally geared to an older audience. Those that lived through much of the Cold War. But for those with that info at hand, this is a very compelling, complicated thinking man's movie, and I'm good with that. This entire movie is a throwback to the early 1970's in it's theme, setting and the style of movie making that was popular at the time. This is a real time machine.
Should be pointed out, there are not action scenes in this movie. Even though it's a spy flick, this is not James Bond. But what this is, is a very deep story that is told in flashback form for much of the time. Also, be advised this movie's dialogue is laced with real technical terms. It is authentic, and some may struggle to really understand who, and what they are talking about much of the time. As I exited the packed theater, I could hear the patrons buzz about what really happened, and if they really understood this movie or not. It is complicated.
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy. Limited appeal, but a very interesting movie if you are a "real movie goer."
TTSS, is based on a 1974 novel that dives deeply into British Intelligence during the Cold War. The very basic premise is, there is a suspected Soviet "mole" in the highest realm of Western Intelligence. This spy of course is a double agent that supposedly is stealing intel, and sending it to the Eastern Block. And the search is on to find him by the West. And that paragraph therein, lies the first hurdle as a movie goer.
You must have some, if not a lot of knowledge of everything I just mentioned, which rules out a ton of people. Many have grown up in a world where this was never a part of their lives. TTSS is totally geared to an older audience. Those that lived through much of the Cold War. But for those with that info at hand, this is a very compelling, complicated thinking man's movie, and I'm good with that. This entire movie is a throwback to the early 1970's in it's theme, setting and the style of movie making that was popular at the time. This is a real time machine.
Should be pointed out, there are not action scenes in this movie. Even though it's a spy flick, this is not James Bond. But what this is, is a very deep story that is told in flashback form for much of the time. Also, be advised this movie's dialogue is laced with real technical terms. It is authentic, and some may struggle to really understand who, and what they are talking about much of the time. As I exited the packed theater, I could hear the patrons buzz about what really happened, and if they really understood this movie or not. It is complicated.
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy. Limited appeal, but a very interesting movie if you are a "real movie goer."
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