Plot: Shrek (voiced by Mike Myers), an ogre desperate to regain his swamp, travels along with an annoying donkey named Donkey (voiced by Eddie Murphy), to rescue Princess Fiona (voiced by Cameron Diaz) and bring her to Lord Farquaad (voiced by John Lithgow), a lord wishing himself King.
Review: I love this movie. I simply love it.
Firstly, what I love about the film's plot is that it applies to both children and adults. The film has jokes and themes that relate to adults, yet the plot is simple enough to appeal to kids and there's also humor that will appeal to kids. Some films do this but it looks like they're trying too hard. Shrek doesn't try too hard. It's simply organic and natural. It's funny without even trying.
Now in addition to being absolutely funny, the film is also very heartfelt. We have the scene with Donkey and Fiona after Donkey learns the truth about Fiona, where Donkey and Shrek talk near the fire about how Donkey didn't find Shrek ugly when they met. These are just two examples that this is a movie that has heart.
I like the several references to fairy tales and Disney films. We have the references to Three Little Pigs, the Big Bad Wolf (who's basically a drag queen which I find hilarious), Pinocchio, the Gingerbread Man known as Gingie (one of my favorite characters in all of the films) etc. What I like about these references is that even though we know these stories and characters, it's somehow fresh and unique. It even starts in the the opening- where the narrator is reading from the book and Shrek tears out of the pages and says that's a pile of crap. And we have the scene where Donkey flies, where they refer to Peter Pan and Dumbo. I like that it's not an entire homage to Disney and fairy tales, but they know that they exist and properly go back to them without going over the top.
I think one of the film's very few problems is that the animal and fantasy characters are more interesting than the human characters, like Fiona and Lord Farquaad. But that's typically the norm in stories like these.
The film is a visual feast. Everyone involved in the design of the characters, sets and everything should be praised because it's a fantastic visual treat. There are a lot of different sets in this from the swamp, to the castle, to fields etc. And the attention to certain details like Donkey's fur, the colors of the dragon's scales and her eyelashes etc. It's all these details that show that these filmmakers care about quality and not being afraid to maybe obsess over certain things that others wouldn't necessarily think to look over. So more power to them.
The voice acting in this is brilliant. Mike Myers is fantastic and hilarious as Shrek. Even with just his voice, he manages to give Shrek a heart. Myers is able to bring a sense of vulnerability with just his voice. Eddie Murphy is hysterical as Donkey. For me, Donkey is my favorite character. Just because he is so funny yet so humble, caring and kind. Cameron Diaz I thought was a good choice for the role of Fiona. For me, I felt that bravery and determination from Cameron Diaz's performance. John Lithgow I think played an awesome villain. His voice performance as Lord Farquaad prepares to scheme is very diabolical and villainy. The entire cast is genius and well put together. It blends perfectly.
Shrek is an amazing animated accomplishment that will be loved by the entire family.
Rating: 5/5
Sunday 29 April 2012
Happy Gilmore (1996)
Plot: Happy Gilmore (Adam Sandler) is a rejected hockey player who starts using his skills to play golf to win money and get back his grandmother's home after it's repossessed.
Review: If you're an Adam Sandler fan, you'll love this movie. And if you're not, you're probably going to find this film not that funny and kind of forgettable. I like Adam Sandler and I think he's been in a few good movies and this is one of them. It's not great, but decent.
The plot isn't all that. It's not completely original and kind of predictable, especially towards the end.
The acting is okay. Adam Sandler does what he does in his comedies and he makes it work. His character isn't all that likable for a good part of the film. He gets angry for sometimes no reason necessary and just keeps pounding his club. It gets tiresome after a while. Christopher McDonald plays Shooter, Happy's golf rival. I thought McDonald was also fine and like Happy, his character isn't that likable. Shooter's just too cocky for my liking, but McDonald plays the character well. Julie Bowen plays Virginia, the publicist who eventually becomes Happy's love interest. I love that she was one of the voices of reason. And I also think she and Adam Sandler had good chemistry. Frances Bay plays Happy's grandmother and I think she was great. Carl Weathers is Chubbs, a former golf champ who trains Happy. For me, Carl Weathers was the standout in this in terms of the cast. He was fantastic.
The core factor in Happy Gilmore is the humor. That what makes it work or not. Some of the humor is over the top, yet undeniably funny at times. There are some scenes that are just laugh out loud funny. Like the scenes where Happy goes to his happy place. And also certain moments when Happy's golfing, like when he goes after the alligator that has his golf ball. But the scene that sticks out for me is the fight scene between Happy and Bob Barker. It's so hilarious and just makes you laugh out loud. Just to see a television icon throw punches with Adam Sandler is something that makes you think is that real? So some of the film's humor works and some of it is just not that believable. Like the scene where Chubbs dies after seeing the alligator's head and backing out the window and falling to his death. That I don't find believable. And the gag where the radiator falls on the old woman. It's the same reasoning. So I'm on both sides in regards to the film's humor.
One thing that annoyed me slightly about the film was all of the product placements. Some of them that I noticed were Visa, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi. There were others, but I didn't bother keeping track. Too much product placement in this one movie for me personally.
Overall, Happy Gilmore is a funny and entertaining movie. It has its good moments and its bad ones. Like I said, if you're a fan of Adam Sandler and his humor, you'll love it. But if you're not, you might find this a little difficult to swallow.
Rating: 3/5
Review: If you're an Adam Sandler fan, you'll love this movie. And if you're not, you're probably going to find this film not that funny and kind of forgettable. I like Adam Sandler and I think he's been in a few good movies and this is one of them. It's not great, but decent.
The plot isn't all that. It's not completely original and kind of predictable, especially towards the end.
The acting is okay. Adam Sandler does what he does in his comedies and he makes it work. His character isn't all that likable for a good part of the film. He gets angry for sometimes no reason necessary and just keeps pounding his club. It gets tiresome after a while. Christopher McDonald plays Shooter, Happy's golf rival. I thought McDonald was also fine and like Happy, his character isn't that likable. Shooter's just too cocky for my liking, but McDonald plays the character well. Julie Bowen plays Virginia, the publicist who eventually becomes Happy's love interest. I love that she was one of the voices of reason. And I also think she and Adam Sandler had good chemistry. Frances Bay plays Happy's grandmother and I think she was great. Carl Weathers is Chubbs, a former golf champ who trains Happy. For me, Carl Weathers was the standout in this in terms of the cast. He was fantastic.
The core factor in Happy Gilmore is the humor. That what makes it work or not. Some of the humor is over the top, yet undeniably funny at times. There are some scenes that are just laugh out loud funny. Like the scenes where Happy goes to his happy place. And also certain moments when Happy's golfing, like when he goes after the alligator that has his golf ball. But the scene that sticks out for me is the fight scene between Happy and Bob Barker. It's so hilarious and just makes you laugh out loud. Just to see a television icon throw punches with Adam Sandler is something that makes you think is that real? So some of the film's humor works and some of it is just not that believable. Like the scene where Chubbs dies after seeing the alligator's head and backing out the window and falling to his death. That I don't find believable. And the gag where the radiator falls on the old woman. It's the same reasoning. So I'm on both sides in regards to the film's humor.
One thing that annoyed me slightly about the film was all of the product placements. Some of them that I noticed were Visa, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi. There were others, but I didn't bother keeping track. Too much product placement in this one movie for me personally.
Overall, Happy Gilmore is a funny and entertaining movie. It has its good moments and its bad ones. Like I said, if you're a fan of Adam Sandler and his humor, you'll love it. But if you're not, you might find this a little difficult to swallow.
Rating: 3/5
Saturday 28 April 2012
Shiloh (1996)
Plot: An abused beagle runs away from his abuser owner. He then runs into Marty (Blake Heron), who takes the dog in. Ray's stern father (Michael Moriarty) won't let him keep the dog because it belongs to a local hunter, who abuses the dog that Ray names Shiloh. Shiloh is returned to his owner, but runs away again and Marty hides him, knowing his father will never allow him to keep Shiloh. Will Marty be able to save Shiloh?
Review: The minute you hear that this is a movie about a boy and a dog, you think you know what you're gonna get. That it's the same story that's been done to death. But I think a great majority of you would be wrong and surprised by the direction the movie takes in it's plot, characters and themes.
What works about the film's plot is that it takes you by complete surprise. Because it's a story of a boy and a dog, you expect the story to be about if the boy will get the dog. But it's not entirely so. The film's story (based on the award-winning novel by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor) is about whether or not the boy deserves the dog.
The family film deals with a wide variety of mature themes: taking responsibility, property, growing up, doing what you think is right and stand by it, and the strong bond kids have with pets. The story is about a boy who loves a dog so much that he cannot bear to see it being abused, mistreated by its owner. So he's willing to do anything at all to save him. The plot deals with all of these themes amazingly well and it blends together perfectly.
So that leads to many questions. Is this young boy mature enough to handle the responsibility of a pet? He loves the dog but is he ready and grown up enough for it? The dog belongs to someone else, but because he treats Shiloh better than the actual owner, does it give him the right to claim the dog? This is one of few family films that I can remember that makes you question and makes you think. Because Marty is the representation of one side of the discussion, whilst Marty's father is the other side of the topic.
I watched this movie a lot when I was younger. And I only watched it again recently and I realized how incredibly mature and heartbreaking the movie actually is.
I honestly can't think of a family-orientated film that handles these kinds of mature topics that some family movies would try to avoid because it would be taboo or the kids would find it too sad. It is a sad movie. It's not that entirely uplifting for the most part. It deals with the real aspects of life and all of the themes that I mentioned above from a kid's perspective.
The film's acting is terrific. Blake Heron I thought was very good and held his own in this. Michael Moriarty is fantastic in this. I didn't like his character for most the film, but he still sells it. Ann Dowd plays Marty's mom and I thought she played the torn mother and wife perfectly as she sides with her husband, but agrees with her son. Scott Wilson plays Judd, Shiloh's abusive owner. He is a completely unsympathetic character. I didn't like him at all. But Wilson is great.
Shiloh is one of those movies that you think is going to be something but it takes you by complete surprise. Shiloh is an incredibly moving and inspiring film.
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: The minute you hear that this is a movie about a boy and a dog, you think you know what you're gonna get. That it's the same story that's been done to death. But I think a great majority of you would be wrong and surprised by the direction the movie takes in it's plot, characters and themes.
What works about the film's plot is that it takes you by complete surprise. Because it's a story of a boy and a dog, you expect the story to be about if the boy will get the dog. But it's not entirely so. The film's story (based on the award-winning novel by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor) is about whether or not the boy deserves the dog.
The family film deals with a wide variety of mature themes: taking responsibility, property, growing up, doing what you think is right and stand by it, and the strong bond kids have with pets. The story is about a boy who loves a dog so much that he cannot bear to see it being abused, mistreated by its owner. So he's willing to do anything at all to save him. The plot deals with all of these themes amazingly well and it blends together perfectly.
So that leads to many questions. Is this young boy mature enough to handle the responsibility of a pet? He loves the dog but is he ready and grown up enough for it? The dog belongs to someone else, but because he treats Shiloh better than the actual owner, does it give him the right to claim the dog? This is one of few family films that I can remember that makes you question and makes you think. Because Marty is the representation of one side of the discussion, whilst Marty's father is the other side of the topic.
I watched this movie a lot when I was younger. And I only watched it again recently and I realized how incredibly mature and heartbreaking the movie actually is.
I honestly can't think of a family-orientated film that handles these kinds of mature topics that some family movies would try to avoid because it would be taboo or the kids would find it too sad. It is a sad movie. It's not that entirely uplifting for the most part. It deals with the real aspects of life and all of the themes that I mentioned above from a kid's perspective.
The film's acting is terrific. Blake Heron I thought was very good and held his own in this. Michael Moriarty is fantastic in this. I didn't like his character for most the film, but he still sells it. Ann Dowd plays Marty's mom and I thought she played the torn mother and wife perfectly as she sides with her husband, but agrees with her son. Scott Wilson plays Judd, Shiloh's abusive owner. He is a completely unsympathetic character. I didn't like him at all. But Wilson is great.
Shiloh is one of those movies that you think is going to be something but it takes you by complete surprise. Shiloh is an incredibly moving and inspiring film.
Rating: 4.5/5
Thursday 26 April 2012
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
Plot: Two Americans, David (David Naughton) and Jack (Griffin Dunne) are backpacking in England. One night, they're attacked by a werewolf. This results in Jack's death and David wakes up in the hospital. David is informed by Jack's ghost that he (David) will transform into a werewolf during the next full moon.
Review: This is a horror classic.
The plot isn't really anything that new. A man attacked by a werewolf, falls in love. It's been done to death. The only aspects of the plot that I liked are the following: the setting of London and Jack as a ghost. I found the setting of London was a unique reflection of David's character after the attack. What is happening to him is very foreign and he has no idea what to do. Kind of like what a tourist feels like going into another country, another continent. I also liked the ghost aspect of Jack. He provided some good comedy and the decaying of his corpse is very disturbing to watch. But I feel that the ghost of the werewolf's victim warning the new werewolf about his fate was very creepy to me.
What really makes this film stand out for me is the makeup. The makeup for Jack's corpse throughout the film, when he first comes on to when he continues to appear and is slowly decomposing is very gory and disturbing. It adds a great element. The werewolf makeup is amazingly done. The transformation is so scary looking. What I like about this transformation especially is that it looks painful. It's not like in other movies where it looks a little painful. Here, you see the bones stretching, hair growing and the sound effects in that scene will make you cringe. It's one of the most memorable scenes I've seen in a horror film. The film won Best Makeup at the Oscars for a reason.
Another element of the film I like is the suspense. They do it very well without it being cheesy. The leading up to the attack is very well done. The scene in the subway where the werewolf attacks people. It's one of those scenes that you think something will happen then it doesn't. And when something does happen, it takes you completely by surprise. The subway scene is another favorite of mine just because it's so unique and actually leaves you scared and wanting more.
This has been labeled a comedy-horror movie. The horror is very well done. And what surprises me is that the comedy is just as well done. We have great, funny lines that will just make you laugh. It's not a comedy that will make you laugh out loud crying, but will make you laugh nonetheless. It's actually very clever, which I found a little surprising. Because it's rare to find a comedy that's actually funny and clever at the same time. Like the scene where Jack tells David he's going to turn into a werewolf is very creepy, but also has good comedy elements, like when David covers his ears saying he doesn't want to hear it. And the scene where David wakes up naked in the zoo cage and steals a kid's balloons and the kid tells his mom "A naked American man stole my balloons". It works, even when you think it wouldn't.
I'll just make a brief point on the acting. The main cast is fairly small and I think every one of them was exceptional in their respective roles. David Naughton is very good as David and I think he has a decent comedic timing. Griffin Dunne is also fine as Jack. I think he has better comedic timing than Naughton does, but that's just my opinion. Jenny Agutter plays Nurse Alex, a nurse who cares for David, whom he eventually moves in with and falls in love with. And I think she does a good job and also had chemistry with David Naughton.
An American Werewolf in London is a frightening and funny film that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
Rating: 4/5
Review: This is a horror classic.
The plot isn't really anything that new. A man attacked by a werewolf, falls in love. It's been done to death. The only aspects of the plot that I liked are the following: the setting of London and Jack as a ghost. I found the setting of London was a unique reflection of David's character after the attack. What is happening to him is very foreign and he has no idea what to do. Kind of like what a tourist feels like going into another country, another continent. I also liked the ghost aspect of Jack. He provided some good comedy and the decaying of his corpse is very disturbing to watch. But I feel that the ghost of the werewolf's victim warning the new werewolf about his fate was very creepy to me.
What really makes this film stand out for me is the makeup. The makeup for Jack's corpse throughout the film, when he first comes on to when he continues to appear and is slowly decomposing is very gory and disturbing. It adds a great element. The werewolf makeup is amazingly done. The transformation is so scary looking. What I like about this transformation especially is that it looks painful. It's not like in other movies where it looks a little painful. Here, you see the bones stretching, hair growing and the sound effects in that scene will make you cringe. It's one of the most memorable scenes I've seen in a horror film. The film won Best Makeup at the Oscars for a reason.
Another element of the film I like is the suspense. They do it very well without it being cheesy. The leading up to the attack is very well done. The scene in the subway where the werewolf attacks people. It's one of those scenes that you think something will happen then it doesn't. And when something does happen, it takes you completely by surprise. The subway scene is another favorite of mine just because it's so unique and actually leaves you scared and wanting more.
This has been labeled a comedy-horror movie. The horror is very well done. And what surprises me is that the comedy is just as well done. We have great, funny lines that will just make you laugh. It's not a comedy that will make you laugh out loud crying, but will make you laugh nonetheless. It's actually very clever, which I found a little surprising. Because it's rare to find a comedy that's actually funny and clever at the same time. Like the scene where Jack tells David he's going to turn into a werewolf is very creepy, but also has good comedy elements, like when David covers his ears saying he doesn't want to hear it. And the scene where David wakes up naked in the zoo cage and steals a kid's balloons and the kid tells his mom "A naked American man stole my balloons". It works, even when you think it wouldn't.
I'll just make a brief point on the acting. The main cast is fairly small and I think every one of them was exceptional in their respective roles. David Naughton is very good as David and I think he has a decent comedic timing. Griffin Dunne is also fine as Jack. I think he has better comedic timing than Naughton does, but that's just my opinion. Jenny Agutter plays Nurse Alex, a nurse who cares for David, whom he eventually moves in with and falls in love with. And I think she does a good job and also had chemistry with David Naughton.
An American Werewolf in London is a frightening and funny film that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
Rating: 4/5
Wednesday 25 April 2012
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Plot: After a bitter divorce, Daniel (Robin Williams) disguises himself as a female housekeeper, Mrs. Doubtfire, to spend time with his kids that are being held in custody by his ex, Miranda (Sally Field).
Review: This is one of my favorite comedies.
The film's plot is actually kinda weak. This is the kind of plot that could completely put a film down. It's a cheesy plot and not exactly entirely original. But it's not the plot that makes the film work surprisingly well. It's all of the other production elements.
The film's makeup is one factor that makes the film work. The makeup for the character of Mrs. Doubtfire herself is amazingly well done. The movie won the Oscar for Best Makeup- and for good reason. There have been many films release since this one about men disguising themselves as women and the makeup isn't that good. They should take tips from these makeup artists.
For me, the acting from the incredibly talented cast is the core factor that makes this film work. Robin Williams is absolutely phenomenal in this. His ability to change his voice constantly and consistently is incredibly entertaining to watch, especially in the scene when he makes numerous calls to apply for the nanny job. His posture and how he presents himself as a woman just makes you laugh. Even the way he looks at someone will make you laugh. His comedic timing is priceless. Robin Williams is one of those people that just makes you laugh whenever he does something. Sally Field is also fantastic in this. She can be seen as the antagonist in some ways but I think she was very convincing in her role. Lisa Jakub, Matthew Lawrence and Mara Wilson play the kids Lydia, Christopher and Natalie. I thought all three kids did an exceptional job and worked off very well with Robin Williams. Pierce Brosnan plays Stuart and although his character isn't that likeable, I think he did a fine job. Anne Haney plays Mrs. Sellner, a worker assigned to oversee Daniel. I think she was funny, even though her character wasn't all that likeable. The entire cast is great, but this is Robin Williams' show and he owns it.
The film's humour is and can be over the top and that what suits Robin Williams. He is a very energetic performer and I think that this kind of humour and story appealed to him and worked well for him. There are many jokes and gags that are done that I don't think would've worked if it was a lesser actor portraying Mrs. Doubtfire. So thank goodness for Robin Williams and his talent. Nonetheless, this film will make you laugh at loud. It's over the top hilarious.
Mrs. Doubtfire is a highly entertaining and funny film that will be seen as a comedy classic.
Rating: 4/5
Review: This is one of my favorite comedies.
The film's plot is actually kinda weak. This is the kind of plot that could completely put a film down. It's a cheesy plot and not exactly entirely original. But it's not the plot that makes the film work surprisingly well. It's all of the other production elements.
The film's makeup is one factor that makes the film work. The makeup for the character of Mrs. Doubtfire herself is amazingly well done. The movie won the Oscar for Best Makeup- and for good reason. There have been many films release since this one about men disguising themselves as women and the makeup isn't that good. They should take tips from these makeup artists.
For me, the acting from the incredibly talented cast is the core factor that makes this film work. Robin Williams is absolutely phenomenal in this. His ability to change his voice constantly and consistently is incredibly entertaining to watch, especially in the scene when he makes numerous calls to apply for the nanny job. His posture and how he presents himself as a woman just makes you laugh. Even the way he looks at someone will make you laugh. His comedic timing is priceless. Robin Williams is one of those people that just makes you laugh whenever he does something. Sally Field is also fantastic in this. She can be seen as the antagonist in some ways but I think she was very convincing in her role. Lisa Jakub, Matthew Lawrence and Mara Wilson play the kids Lydia, Christopher and Natalie. I thought all three kids did an exceptional job and worked off very well with Robin Williams. Pierce Brosnan plays Stuart and although his character isn't that likeable, I think he did a fine job. Anne Haney plays Mrs. Sellner, a worker assigned to oversee Daniel. I think she was funny, even though her character wasn't all that likeable. The entire cast is great, but this is Robin Williams' show and he owns it.
The film's humour is and can be over the top and that what suits Robin Williams. He is a very energetic performer and I think that this kind of humour and story appealed to him and worked well for him. There are many jokes and gags that are done that I don't think would've worked if it was a lesser actor portraying Mrs. Doubtfire. So thank goodness for Robin Williams and his talent. Nonetheless, this film will make you laugh at loud. It's over the top hilarious.
Mrs. Doubtfire is a highly entertaining and funny film that will be seen as a comedy classic.
Rating: 4/5
Saturday 21 April 2012
The Hunger Games (2012)
Plot: Set in the future, one boy and one girl from twelve districts are chosen to participate in the Hunger Games, a reality show where twenty-four adolescents and pre-adolescents fight to the death on live television. Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) volunteers to participate after her sister's name is chosen. Now, the odds are possibly in her favour. Who will win the Hunger Games?
Review: I absolutely loved the book. So I was a little skeptical about it. But when I heard Suzanne Collins, who wrote the novel, helped write and was also one of the producers, I wasn't as skeptical, but still skeptical nonetheless. The film is incredible, not as great compared to the brilliant novel but it's still a great accomplishment. I believe that the film is as great as it is because of Collins' involvement.
The film's plot is different compared to that of the novel. What stood out for me were certain details, but the one that really annoyed me was the story of the pin with the mockingjay bird and how Katniss obtained it. Of course, I expected the plot to not be exactly like the book because it's the norm now in film. So certain other details like the creatures that attack
The acting is phenomenal. Jennifer Lawrence is absolutely captivating and brilliant as Katniss. Her ability to portray Katniss' strength, courage, intelligence and vulnerability is so amazing to see. This is a character who isn't your traditional girly-girl female protagonist. I like that we have a strong female character that doesn't take crap from anyone. Josh Hutcherson I thought was also good in this. I found him to be convincing and felt that he had good chemistry with Jennifer Lawrence. Liam Hemsworth is surprisingly very good as Gale and I thought he and Jennifer Lawrence also had good chemistry. Elizabeth Banks is very convincing as Effie. Woody Harrelson I thought was great as Haymitch. Even though his character wasn't all that sympathetic, I thought he was fantastic and held his own. Willow Shields plays Prim, Katniss' sister and I think she was very good. She wasn't on-screen for that long, but she made a great impression. Donald Sutherland plays President Coriolanus Snow and I think he was a brilliant villain. Sutherland makes a menacing and creepy antagonist and you're not entirely sure what he's thinking at some points, which makes him even more mysterious and menacing. The entire cast is fantastic, but let's face it. This is Jennifer Lawrence's show and she owns it.
The makeup in this, especially for the citizens of the Capitol is insane. Insane in a good way. When Effie came on, I honestly thought I was watching a Tim Burton movie, like Alice in Wonderland. Nonetheless, it's very well done.
I admire Gary Ross' direction. The shaky camera movements were a little difficult to see properly at certain points in the film, but I think because the film does focus on a reality show, so I thought the shaky camera movements made it more effective and more real. I also think that the shaky camera movements helped get the PG-13 rating. If we saw all of the deaths, the film would've probably gotten an R rating. Maybe that was Gary Ross' plan all along.
The themes and messages presented in this are messages that I honestly believe we don't see enough of in film.
We have a strong female character who doesn't go along with what is to be expected of her. She has her own opinions and thoughts. She stands on her own and refuses to be defined by those trying to make her something that she is not. We see her strength and vulnerability. Katniss is a fascinating and brilliant female protagonist and probably one of the best female protagonists I've ever seen in film and/or television.
Another theme we have the obsession that television executives have with exposing the weak and taking advantage of it. The media trying to give you the perfect image. People feeling bad for the weak competitor of the game and rooting for the couple of the show who are playing against each other in the game.
The film is very political, which for those who haven't read the book or aren't familiar with the story, might find surprising. We have characters who distrust the government, support the changes of society, while some don't. We see all kinds of different sides and this can lead to discussion with what you and others may think is right or wrong. The political aspect of the film will surely get some people talking.
The Hunger Games is a great, entertaining and thrilling film. Not as good as the book (then again most novels are better than the film adaptation). But this is still a film you shouldn't limit yourself from seeing.
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: I absolutely loved the book. So I was a little skeptical about it. But when I heard Suzanne Collins, who wrote the novel, helped write and was also one of the producers, I wasn't as skeptical, but still skeptical nonetheless. The film is incredible, not as great compared to the brilliant novel but it's still a great accomplishment. I believe that the film is as great as it is because of Collins' involvement.
The film's plot is different compared to that of the novel. What stood out for me were certain details, but the one that really annoyed me was the story of the pin with the mockingjay bird and how Katniss obtained it. Of course, I expected the plot to not be exactly like the book because it's the norm now in film. So certain other details like the creatures that attack
The acting is phenomenal. Jennifer Lawrence is absolutely captivating and brilliant as Katniss. Her ability to portray Katniss' strength, courage, intelligence and vulnerability is so amazing to see. This is a character who isn't your traditional girly-girl female protagonist. I like that we have a strong female character that doesn't take crap from anyone. Josh Hutcherson I thought was also good in this. I found him to be convincing and felt that he had good chemistry with Jennifer Lawrence. Liam Hemsworth is surprisingly very good as Gale and I thought he and Jennifer Lawrence also had good chemistry. Elizabeth Banks is very convincing as Effie. Woody Harrelson I thought was great as Haymitch. Even though his character wasn't all that sympathetic, I thought he was fantastic and held his own. Willow Shields plays Prim, Katniss' sister and I think she was very good. She wasn't on-screen for that long, but she made a great impression. Donald Sutherland plays President Coriolanus Snow and I think he was a brilliant villain. Sutherland makes a menacing and creepy antagonist and you're not entirely sure what he's thinking at some points, which makes him even more mysterious and menacing. The entire cast is fantastic, but let's face it. This is Jennifer Lawrence's show and she owns it.
The makeup in this, especially for the citizens of the Capitol is insane. Insane in a good way. When Effie came on, I honestly thought I was watching a Tim Burton movie, like Alice in Wonderland. Nonetheless, it's very well done.
I admire Gary Ross' direction. The shaky camera movements were a little difficult to see properly at certain points in the film, but I think because the film does focus on a reality show, so I thought the shaky camera movements made it more effective and more real. I also think that the shaky camera movements helped get the PG-13 rating. If we saw all of the deaths, the film would've probably gotten an R rating. Maybe that was Gary Ross' plan all along.
The themes and messages presented in this are messages that I honestly believe we don't see enough of in film.
We have a strong female character who doesn't go along with what is to be expected of her. She has her own opinions and thoughts. She stands on her own and refuses to be defined by those trying to make her something that she is not. We see her strength and vulnerability. Katniss is a fascinating and brilliant female protagonist and probably one of the best female protagonists I've ever seen in film and/or television.
Another theme we have the obsession that television executives have with exposing the weak and taking advantage of it. The media trying to give you the perfect image. People feeling bad for the weak competitor of the game and rooting for the couple of the show who are playing against each other in the game.
The film is very political, which for those who haven't read the book or aren't familiar with the story, might find surprising. We have characters who distrust the government, support the changes of society, while some don't. We see all kinds of different sides and this can lead to discussion with what you and others may think is right or wrong. The political aspect of the film will surely get some people talking.
The Hunger Games is a great, entertaining and thrilling film. Not as good as the book (then again most novels are better than the film adaptation). But this is still a film you shouldn't limit yourself from seeing.
Rating: 4.5/5
Sunday 8 April 2012
She's the Man (2006)
Plot: Viola (Amanda Bynes) disguises herself as her twin brother when he ditches school for a few weeks to go to London. She falls for one of her soccer teammates (Channing Tatum). Little does she know she's not the only one with romantic troubles, as she, as he gets in the middle of a complex love affair.
Review: I actually enjoyed this, which surprised me.
The plot is based on the Shakespeare play Twelfth Night. Now the character mostly have the same names and the boarding school is named after the country that the play takes place. Twelfth Night is a comedy play from the Renaissance so of course the play's humor had to be changed so that a modern, adolescent audience could get it. The movie does have predictable and sometimes over the top humor. But that's what's to be expected in most teen comedies now. So it was bearable. Both the play and the film also have a very complex love triangle, which can be confusing whether you're reading the play or watching the movie.
The film's acting is actually good. I like Amanda Bynes. I think she's one of those actresses that can actually make you laugh. She's very funny in this. Her attempts to pull off being her twin brother is hilarious and worth watching. Channing Tatum is in this. I recently wrote a review for his film 21 Jump Street (2012) and I was surprised how funny Channing Tatum is. He's funny in this, don't get me wrong, but this is a PG-13 teen comedy; 21 Jump Street (2012) is rated R and that film can go anywhere because it's aimed at an older demographic. So I think Channing Tatum did a fine job, even though his character is pretty naive. And I thought he and Amanda Bynes had good chemistry between the two of them. Laura Ramsay plays Olivia and I think she's an alright antagonist. David Cross plays the school's principal and I thought he was pretty funny. The rest of the cast is decent, but this is really Amanda Bynes' show and she owns it.
The film's humor is okay. Amanda Bynes, Channing Tatum and David Cross have great comedic timing and they hold their own. The rest of the cast have their good moments in terms of comedy, but these three really made it work.
I like the plot element of women playing sports that some believe are more appropriate for men. I wish they would've explored that a little deeper. But I think the soccer game towards the end made what they were trying to convey to the audience clear. And of course, it had the outcome you expected so nothing really shocking there.
She's the Man is a surprisingly good teen comedy. It can be predictable, over the top and it's not hysterical, but it's still a decent teen comedy.
Rating: 3/5
Review: I actually enjoyed this, which surprised me.
The plot is based on the Shakespeare play Twelfth Night. Now the character mostly have the same names and the boarding school is named after the country that the play takes place. Twelfth Night is a comedy play from the Renaissance so of course the play's humor had to be changed so that a modern, adolescent audience could get it. The movie does have predictable and sometimes over the top humor. But that's what's to be expected in most teen comedies now. So it was bearable. Both the play and the film also have a very complex love triangle, which can be confusing whether you're reading the play or watching the movie.
The film's acting is actually good. I like Amanda Bynes. I think she's one of those actresses that can actually make you laugh. She's very funny in this. Her attempts to pull off being her twin brother is hilarious and worth watching. Channing Tatum is in this. I recently wrote a review for his film 21 Jump Street (2012) and I was surprised how funny Channing Tatum is. He's funny in this, don't get me wrong, but this is a PG-13 teen comedy; 21 Jump Street (2012) is rated R and that film can go anywhere because it's aimed at an older demographic. So I think Channing Tatum did a fine job, even though his character is pretty naive. And I thought he and Amanda Bynes had good chemistry between the two of them. Laura Ramsay plays Olivia and I think she's an alright antagonist. David Cross plays the school's principal and I thought he was pretty funny. The rest of the cast is decent, but this is really Amanda Bynes' show and she owns it.
The film's humor is okay. Amanda Bynes, Channing Tatum and David Cross have great comedic timing and they hold their own. The rest of the cast have their good moments in terms of comedy, but these three really made it work.
I like the plot element of women playing sports that some believe are more appropriate for men. I wish they would've explored that a little deeper. But I think the soccer game towards the end made what they were trying to convey to the audience clear. And of course, it had the outcome you expected so nothing really shocking there.
She's the Man is a surprisingly good teen comedy. It can be predictable, over the top and it's not hysterical, but it's still a decent teen comedy.
Rating: 3/5
Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011)
Plot: Martha (Elizabeth Olsen) is haunted by memories and paranoia as she struggles to readjust after she escapes an abusive cult.
Review: This was a surprisingly great film.
What I like about the film's plot is that it goes back and forth between reality, memory and dream. When I first saw this, I honestly reminded me of Black Swan in a sense. The film's plot can be confusing, but I think that it works because the character of Martha is confused and trying to readjust. So I think that my giving us a slightly messed up plot, it reflects on the character's psychological being as she goes back to what we consider normal living.
The film's acting is phenomenal. Elizabeth Olsen gives us a captivating and strong debut performance. Her portrayal of Martha's paranoia, fear, confusion and desperation to reclaim some part of her life is fascinating to watch. I think she'll make it big. John Hawkes is of course brilliant as always as the manipulative and charming cult leader, Patrick. Sarah Paulson plays Martha's sister and I thought she did a wonderful job. Hugh Dancy plays the Martha's brother-in-law and I thought that he did a great job. His character is the other side, what some people in the audience are probably thinking. He's the voice. This is a well-rounded and talented cast.
This is Sean Durkin's directorial debut and I think that he's definitely established himself as a writer and director. Not in mainstream Hollywood, but in the independent film circle, he's made himself known.
I think this film was overlooked at the Oscars. Most low-budget and independent films that are work of genius are ignored by the Academy, which I think isn't right. We'll get a year when independent films are acknowledged, but for the greater majority, they aren't really.
This film should've received some Oscar nods. Elizabeth Olsen was very deserving of an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. I think it would be a stretch to say she would've won because she wasn't recognized at any other major film awards ceremony like the Golden Globes, but I wish the Academy would've recognized her powerful performance. I always say very few actors leave this kind of impression with a debut performance.
I also believe John Hawkes should have received an Oscar nod for Best Actor or Best Supporting Actor. And I also believe Sean Durkin should have received an Oscar nod for Best Original Screenplay. All of these talented artists should've been recognized and I think it's a shame on the Academy's part.
I liked the film's ending, only because it's a realistic approach to the story- that it isn't over. It takes time to heal and move on with our lives as we heal the scars. I think if the ending had everything being okay, it wouldn't be realistic.
Martha Marcy May Marlene is a complex, thrilling and suspenseful that is probably one of the best and more underrated films of 2011.
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: This was a surprisingly great film.
What I like about the film's plot is that it goes back and forth between reality, memory and dream. When I first saw this, I honestly reminded me of Black Swan in a sense. The film's plot can be confusing, but I think that it works because the character of Martha is confused and trying to readjust. So I think that my giving us a slightly messed up plot, it reflects on the character's psychological being as she goes back to what we consider normal living.
The film's acting is phenomenal. Elizabeth Olsen gives us a captivating and strong debut performance. Her portrayal of Martha's paranoia, fear, confusion and desperation to reclaim some part of her life is fascinating to watch. I think she'll make it big. John Hawkes is of course brilliant as always as the manipulative and charming cult leader, Patrick. Sarah Paulson plays Martha's sister and I thought she did a wonderful job. Hugh Dancy plays the Martha's brother-in-law and I thought that he did a great job. His character is the other side, what some people in the audience are probably thinking. He's the voice. This is a well-rounded and talented cast.
This is Sean Durkin's directorial debut and I think that he's definitely established himself as a writer and director. Not in mainstream Hollywood, but in the independent film circle, he's made himself known.
I think this film was overlooked at the Oscars. Most low-budget and independent films that are work of genius are ignored by the Academy, which I think isn't right. We'll get a year when independent films are acknowledged, but for the greater majority, they aren't really.
This film should've received some Oscar nods. Elizabeth Olsen was very deserving of an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. I think it would be a stretch to say she would've won because she wasn't recognized at any other major film awards ceremony like the Golden Globes, but I wish the Academy would've recognized her powerful performance. I always say very few actors leave this kind of impression with a debut performance.
I also believe John Hawkes should have received an Oscar nod for Best Actor or Best Supporting Actor. And I also believe Sean Durkin should have received an Oscar nod for Best Original Screenplay. All of these talented artists should've been recognized and I think it's a shame on the Academy's part.
I liked the film's ending, only because it's a realistic approach to the story- that it isn't over. It takes time to heal and move on with our lives as we heal the scars. I think if the ending had everything being okay, it wouldn't be realistic.
Martha Marcy May Marlene is a complex, thrilling and suspenseful that is probably one of the best and more underrated films of 2011.
Rating: 4.5/5
Child's Play (1988)
Plot: Charles Lee Ray (Brad Dourif) is a serial killer who is severely wounded by Detective Mike Norris (Chris Sarandon) during a pursuit. Knowing he's dying, Charles Lee Ray performs voodoo to transfer his soul into a Good Guy doll. Meanwhile, 6-year-old Andy (Alex Vincent) gets a Good Guy doll for his birthday. Horrible things begin to happen and Andy is blamed, although Andy claims Chucky (his doll) did it. Chucky soon learns that his body is becoming use to the doll's body and that in order to avoid such a fate, he must transfer his soul to the first person he revealed his true nature to- which is Andy.
Review: This is one of my favorite horror movies.
What I like about the film's plot is that it has an original concept- the killer doll. I also like that we actually know that the doll is probably evil from the start when we see Charles Lee Ray chanting the spell. But the thing is we don't know if it worked or not until later on. We can suspect, but we don't know for sure so that just adds to the fun.
Another aspect of the plot that I like is that we actually get a supernatural, horror feel to it. When Chucky goes to see the voodoo man to see how he can escape the doll's body was fantastic because it changes the film entirely because what the voodoo man says drives the rest of the series- Chucky has to get his body into the first person he told his secret to. So that one scene, I believe, helped launch an entire series. Because with that scene, the options are now endless. And there have been five films, including this one, released. So that speaks for itself.
The choreography and special effects in regards to Chucky and how he moves when he's alive is very well done. His facial expressions, how his mouth moves and the way he walks and runs is all brilliantly crafted. And considering this was made in the 80s, this is superb.
The acting is actually very good. Alex Vincent plays Andy and he is very convincing in his role as a terrified little boy desperate for people to believe him. Catherine Hicks plays Andy's mother and I think she was also very good. Brad Dourif plays Charles Lee Ray and voices Chucky. I think Brad Dourif is creepy when he's Charles Lee Ray and even more creepy when he voices Charles Lee Ray as Chucky, the doll. I think Brad Dourif will always be remembered in the horror genre as the voice of one of the most well-known horror villains.
Child's Play is a scary, suspenseful, funny and entertaining horror movie that is one of the classics.
Rating: 4/5
Review: This is one of my favorite horror movies.
What I like about the film's plot is that it has an original concept- the killer doll. I also like that we actually know that the doll is probably evil from the start when we see Charles Lee Ray chanting the spell. But the thing is we don't know if it worked or not until later on. We can suspect, but we don't know for sure so that just adds to the fun.
Another aspect of the plot that I like is that we actually get a supernatural, horror feel to it. When Chucky goes to see the voodoo man to see how he can escape the doll's body was fantastic because it changes the film entirely because what the voodoo man says drives the rest of the series- Chucky has to get his body into the first person he told his secret to. So that one scene, I believe, helped launch an entire series. Because with that scene, the options are now endless. And there have been five films, including this one, released. So that speaks for itself.
The choreography and special effects in regards to Chucky and how he moves when he's alive is very well done. His facial expressions, how his mouth moves and the way he walks and runs is all brilliantly crafted. And considering this was made in the 80s, this is superb.
The acting is actually very good. Alex Vincent plays Andy and he is very convincing in his role as a terrified little boy desperate for people to believe him. Catherine Hicks plays Andy's mother and I think she was also very good. Brad Dourif plays Charles Lee Ray and voices Chucky. I think Brad Dourif is creepy when he's Charles Lee Ray and even more creepy when he voices Charles Lee Ray as Chucky, the doll. I think Brad Dourif will always be remembered in the horror genre as the voice of one of the most well-known horror villains.
Child's Play is a scary, suspenseful, funny and entertaining horror movie that is one of the classics.
Rating: 4/5
Thursday 5 April 2012
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
Plot: Tod, an orphaned fox and Copper, a hound dog, become best friends but realize they're going to be forced to be enemies when they get older.
Review: This is a brilliant film. There are a lot of brilliant animated films out there, but not many have so much deepness and intelligence in their story.
Firstly, what I like about the film's plot is that it takes friendship and loyalty and applies it in a way that will appeal to children. They have animals, who aren't suppose to be friends, but yet develop a beautiful friendship. And I think that making the characters animals instead of humans, it appeals more to the younger kids. They might think they'll be watching a cute Disney movie about animals, but they'll realize it's a much deeper and more profound film than it appears to be. I think if the characters had been human, it wouldn't have the same effect on kids. And it makes it more understandable I find.
Cooper and Tod try to keep their friendship, despite the fact that the society labels them as enemies and their animal instincts slowly begin to emerge as they mature. They've now succumbed to the pressures and are now enemies.
The scene with the fight between the bear, Tod and Copper is phenomenal. The attention to detail through out it, from the scratches, the blood and even the way the rocks moved, makes a very intense and frightening scene. I can't remember the last time an animated film had that much intensity in one scene. I'm not exaggerating when I say that that battle scene is just as suspenseful and frightening than most battle scenes in huge budget action movies.
The scene after the bear attack where Copper saves Tod's life and that one look they share is so sad. Because we can see that they still value each other and want to have the friendship they once had, but know that that will never happen. So that one look and smile speaks louder than a thousand words.
The ending is very bittersweet. Did I wish for a much happier ending? Of course I did. But I do applaud the fact that they ultimately did a realistic approach. It's the fact that they will always be friends, but never truly friends because it will never be permitted. It's heartbreaking. They can only be "friends" from afar and they'll always have their memories to treasure and remember what they had and I think they wish they still had.
The Fox and the Hound is an incredible film that will leave an impact on us and I think will remembered as one of Disney's best films.
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: This is a brilliant film. There are a lot of brilliant animated films out there, but not many have so much deepness and intelligence in their story.
Firstly, what I like about the film's plot is that it takes friendship and loyalty and applies it in a way that will appeal to children. They have animals, who aren't suppose to be friends, but yet develop a beautiful friendship. And I think that making the characters animals instead of humans, it appeals more to the younger kids. They might think they'll be watching a cute Disney movie about animals, but they'll realize it's a much deeper and more profound film than it appears to be. I think if the characters had been human, it wouldn't have the same effect on kids. And it makes it more understandable I find.
Cooper and Tod try to keep their friendship, despite the fact that the society labels them as enemies and their animal instincts slowly begin to emerge as they mature. They've now succumbed to the pressures and are now enemies.
The scene with the fight between the bear, Tod and Copper is phenomenal. The attention to detail through out it, from the scratches, the blood and even the way the rocks moved, makes a very intense and frightening scene. I can't remember the last time an animated film had that much intensity in one scene. I'm not exaggerating when I say that that battle scene is just as suspenseful and frightening than most battle scenes in huge budget action movies.
The scene after the bear attack where Copper saves Tod's life and that one look they share is so sad. Because we can see that they still value each other and want to have the friendship they once had, but know that that will never happen. So that one look and smile speaks louder than a thousand words.
The ending is very bittersweet. Did I wish for a much happier ending? Of course I did. But I do applaud the fact that they ultimately did a realistic approach. It's the fact that they will always be friends, but never truly friends because it will never be permitted. It's heartbreaking. They can only be "friends" from afar and they'll always have their memories to treasure and remember what they had and I think they wish they still had.
The Fox and the Hound is an incredible film that will leave an impact on us and I think will remembered as one of Disney's best films.
Rating: 4.5/5
Wednesday 4 April 2012
Wrath of the Titans (2012)
Plot: Perseus (Sam Worthington) braves the treacherousness of the underworld to rescue his father, Zeus (Liam Neeson), who has been captured by his son, Ares (Edgar Ramirez) and his brother Hades (Ralph Fiennes) who unleash the ancient Titans upon the world.
Review: I was expecting this film to be a complete disaster. And honestly, the only reason I saw it in theatres is because tickets for 21 Jump Street were sold out and this was the second choice and the movie's time was close to 21 Jump Street's time. So I will say that Wrath of the Titans was a little better than I expected. But that doesn't mean it was great. It was decent at best.
I found the film's plot to be very unbalanced. I knew who most of the gods were because of classes I had taken so that wasn't a big issue. The bigger issue is that there's too much going on. I felt as if the writers were purposefully added useful scenes that could've been cut to add time. And I haven't seen Clash of the Titans, the first film. This is a sequel. So I really had to try and figure out the relationships between the characters and everything. So some might be confused at first if they haven't seen the first one. I know I was.
The film is in 3D. Not surprising because almost everything comes out in 3D now. I think the 3D was okay. I mean, lava, rocks, fire and stuff come at you, which is cool, but it didn't really stick in my mind afterwards or blow me away when I first saw it. I think that's what 3D films should be about. They should really have an awww effect. I've seen some that have had that affect. This one isn't one of them.
Visually, the film is stunning. The effects during the battles, the labyrinth and its doors and especially the underworld. All of it was fantastic. You can see all the work and effort that was done with the effects. They put their sweat and blood into it.
The film's acting is alright. Nothing really impressive. Sam Worthington is fine, but I didn't find him that convincing. I honestly had no idea Liam Neeson was playing Zeus. I would've never guessed. And I thought he was very, very impressive. Edgar Ramirez didn't convince me in his role and I found the character very annoying and pathetic (which isn't good to call a god). Rosamund Pike was alright in this. I like that she's a kick-ass female character and doesn't completely rely on a man to save her. So I appreciate that sentiment. Ralph Fiennes made this movie for me. I think he was fantastic and the strongest of the cast. He and Liam Neeson worked fantastically well together.
Wrath of the Titans is one of those somewhat decent movies that's pretty forgettable- which is why I wrote this review as soon as I finished watching it, so I wouldn't forget.
Rating: 2/5
Review: I was expecting this film to be a complete disaster. And honestly, the only reason I saw it in theatres is because tickets for 21 Jump Street were sold out and this was the second choice and the movie's time was close to 21 Jump Street's time. So I will say that Wrath of the Titans was a little better than I expected. But that doesn't mean it was great. It was decent at best.
I found the film's plot to be very unbalanced. I knew who most of the gods were because of classes I had taken so that wasn't a big issue. The bigger issue is that there's too much going on. I felt as if the writers were purposefully added useful scenes that could've been cut to add time. And I haven't seen Clash of the Titans, the first film. This is a sequel. So I really had to try and figure out the relationships between the characters and everything. So some might be confused at first if they haven't seen the first one. I know I was.
The film is in 3D. Not surprising because almost everything comes out in 3D now. I think the 3D was okay. I mean, lava, rocks, fire and stuff come at you, which is cool, but it didn't really stick in my mind afterwards or blow me away when I first saw it. I think that's what 3D films should be about. They should really have an awww effect. I've seen some that have had that affect. This one isn't one of them.
Visually, the film is stunning. The effects during the battles, the labyrinth and its doors and especially the underworld. All of it was fantastic. You can see all the work and effort that was done with the effects. They put their sweat and blood into it.
The film's acting is alright. Nothing really impressive. Sam Worthington is fine, but I didn't find him that convincing. I honestly had no idea Liam Neeson was playing Zeus. I would've never guessed. And I thought he was very, very impressive. Edgar Ramirez didn't convince me in his role and I found the character very annoying and pathetic (which isn't good to call a god). Rosamund Pike was alright in this. I like that she's a kick-ass female character and doesn't completely rely on a man to save her. So I appreciate that sentiment. Ralph Fiennes made this movie for me. I think he was fantastic and the strongest of the cast. He and Liam Neeson worked fantastically well together.
Wrath of the Titans is one of those somewhat decent movies that's pretty forgettable- which is why I wrote this review as soon as I finished watching it, so I wouldn't forget.
Rating: 2/5
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