The Oscar nominations have been announced. I finished Winter's Bone this morning which means I have now seen all 10 best picture nominees.
When voting, Academy members are asked to list the nominees, 1-10, starting with what they feel is best. So I will also participate.
1. The Social Network
2. The King's Speech
3. Inception
4. Black Swan
5. 127 Hours
6. The Fighter
7. True Grit
8. Winter's Bone
9. Toy Story 3
10. The Kids Are Alright
So that's my opinion...In case you wanted to know
Showing posts with label movies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label movies. Show all posts
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
2010 entertainment
I realized I never did a list of things that made 2010 awesome (mostly it sucked, but we'll pretend it didn't for approximately one blog entry).
1. Movies
Not many movies. Specifically a few. I'm not going to get film snobby, like i usually am. I will instead display the posters of a few movies that brought joy to my solemn face.
2. Books
Yes, I learned to continuously read this year. I mean i didn't get on the ball till around late august but I read around 5 books in three months. I felt smart and well read like Julie or Bry.
3. Music
There have been many artists how have helped me get through this year, but none of them hold a candle to Robyn. Her lyrics have helped me through some of the incredibly tough times this year. It absolutely helped that she released 3 albums this year, so I received a dose of wisdom every few months. And got to see her in concert, but I already discussed that.
4. Television
Television has had a fantastic year. but i have to give a shout out to some shows that have helped me pass those excruciating days at Festival.
These are the non-human things that helped me make it through this year. and for that I will be forever indebted to them.
1. Movies
Not many movies. Specifically a few. I'm not going to get film snobby, like i usually am. I will instead display the posters of a few movies that brought joy to my solemn face.
2. Books
Yes, I learned to continuously read this year. I mean i didn't get on the ball till around late august but I read around 5 books in three months. I felt smart and well read like Julie or Bry.
3. Music
There have been many artists how have helped me get through this year, but none of them hold a candle to Robyn. Her lyrics have helped me through some of the incredibly tough times this year. It absolutely helped that she released 3 albums this year, so I received a dose of wisdom every few months. And got to see her in concert, but I already discussed that.
4. Television
Television has had a fantastic year. but i have to give a shout out to some shows that have helped me pass those excruciating days at Festival.
These are the non-human things that helped me make it through this year. and for that I will be forever indebted to them.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Reigniting Passions
I love movies. I can't help it. I love them. Even the bad ones (the bad ones are like that weird cousin you don't really like, but you still feel obligated to look out for cause its still family.) I've had a love affair with the cinema for quite some time. I always liked movies, but who doesn't right. I think I may have located the source of the turning point from like to love, however.
Back in Utah, my family would always host an Oscar party. My mom attended to the food and socialization aspects, while my dad would read up on all the nominees. My dad thoroughly enjoys movies as well (that's probably where I get it from). Anyway, one year, my dad was to be out of town working on the weekend of the big night, so I took up the reins in his stead. Which meant looking into the nominees, reading the reviews, so I could at least give a brief synopsis if there was a film someone hadn't seen. My dad was gone that weekend the following year as well and that's when I decided. Rather than read critiques, why not just see the movies and form some of my own. At least of the Best Picture nominees. That particular year I saw 4 of the 5(Freaking Letters from Iwo Jima). I soon developed a taste for great movies which led to me wanting to become a film student.
Film, like most art forms, is unique. It requires much visual creativity, finesse, and respect for the medium and what it can do. I often feel that people don't realize what a powerful thing movies can be. No matter if you are watching Little Miss Sunshine, Toy Story, or Accepted, you are making connections. You are surrendering yourself to another being (albeit, fictional) for at least 90 mins. You are making yourself vulnerable. Open to feeling something. A powerful movie with the right story can easily change your life.
I want to be a filmmaker. I want to create something that will cause change. Film has caused a change in me and I have a strong desire to pay it forward. I often loose sight of this goal. Getting side tracked by working where I do and dealing with co-workers. Letting my attention be drawn elsewhere. Its not until a great movie comes along that my passion and dreams are reignited. I have seen two movies this week that did exactly that.
127 Hours and Black Swan.
Both are brilliant films honed by brilliant directors. Each great for different reasons save one. There is such care brought to the telling of these stories. These are not films that were concocted to make money (a.k.a. The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise). No. These were stories that should be told. While one is also a tale of man vs. nature, both of these films showcase protagonists that need to conquer themselves. Danny Boyle and Darren Aronofsky are master storytellers because they put their heart and soul into the telling. I would be shocked if they are not invited to the Kodak theater in March. I hope, someday, I will be invited too.
Back in Utah, my family would always host an Oscar party. My mom attended to the food and socialization aspects, while my dad would read up on all the nominees. My dad thoroughly enjoys movies as well (that's probably where I get it from). Anyway, one year, my dad was to be out of town working on the weekend of the big night, so I took up the reins in his stead. Which meant looking into the nominees, reading the reviews, so I could at least give a brief synopsis if there was a film someone hadn't seen. My dad was gone that weekend the following year as well and that's when I decided. Rather than read critiques, why not just see the movies and form some of my own. At least of the Best Picture nominees. That particular year I saw 4 of the 5(Freaking Letters from Iwo Jima). I soon developed a taste for great movies which led to me wanting to become a film student.
Film, like most art forms, is unique. It requires much visual creativity, finesse, and respect for the medium and what it can do. I often feel that people don't realize what a powerful thing movies can be. No matter if you are watching Little Miss Sunshine, Toy Story, or Accepted, you are making connections. You are surrendering yourself to another being (albeit, fictional) for at least 90 mins. You are making yourself vulnerable. Open to feeling something. A powerful movie with the right story can easily change your life.
I want to be a filmmaker. I want to create something that will cause change. Film has caused a change in me and I have a strong desire to pay it forward. I often loose sight of this goal. Getting side tracked by working where I do and dealing with co-workers. Letting my attention be drawn elsewhere. Its not until a great movie comes along that my passion and dreams are reignited. I have seen two movies this week that did exactly that.
127 Hours and Black Swan.
Both are brilliant films honed by brilliant directors. Each great for different reasons save one. There is such care brought to the telling of these stories. These are not films that were concocted to make money (a.k.a. The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise). No. These were stories that should be told. While one is also a tale of man vs. nature, both of these films showcase protagonists that need to conquer themselves. Danny Boyle and Darren Aronofsky are master storytellers because they put their heart and soul into the telling. I would be shocked if they are not invited to the Kodak theater in March. I hope, someday, I will be invited too.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Update
Yes, It's been a while. I often feel like the things I say are not as funny, interesting, or well-written once I finish putting fingers to keys. So I don't. Not as often any way and, even then, it's only if I feel like I can make it look good. So maybe instead, I'll just do one massive update.
I started reading. A lot. For me anyway. And I think I finally found a way to keep it going. I kept trying for ambitious reads, that's what I call them. I very clearly do not have the attention span for that. When I don't get through them with ease, I get frustrated and think reading is not for me. Which is just not the truth. I like reading quite a bit. I even ordered some books on Amazon.com. Can you say, "BOOK FIEND"? Bwahahaa
I read THE HUNGER GAMES series and it was AMAZING. I read them quite rapidly. A month for all three with a short break between 2 and 3 to read THE GIVER (Again, 4 books in a month is quite a sum for me. A spectacular feat). But this series is absolutely my favorite. I'm very excited for the movies to spew forth.
I've seen many movies. The best and most interesting is THE SOCIAL NETWORK. It is about the creation of Facebook by that scoundrel, Mark Zuckerburg. The script (by Aaron Sorkin) is possibly the sharpest, most relevant, wittiest one of the year. I am very partial toward rapid fire dialogue between people that can keep up. It is shot with I wise hand by David Fincher. The casting was great as well. Jesse Eisinberg (I'm sure i'm botching the spelling on all of these names) as Mark, creates an ass of a guy who has heart. And who in the world would think that Justin Timberlake could act. I mean, more than is required for SNL skits. He plays Sean Parker, creator of Napster, and older brother figure to Mark.
Just go see it.
I've been in rehearsals for a new show coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios entitled DISNEY CHANNEL ROCKS. It has been a blast, but very challenging. I'll see if I ever get to to do it.
I got FINAL CUT PRO. Finally!! Four years in the making. I finished my first video project in years. It's about ninja-assassins. Yes, it's dorky and I feel confident you don't wanna see it.
Anyway, that's all for today folks.
I started reading. A lot. For me anyway. And I think I finally found a way to keep it going. I kept trying for ambitious reads, that's what I call them. I very clearly do not have the attention span for that. When I don't get through them with ease, I get frustrated and think reading is not for me. Which is just not the truth. I like reading quite a bit. I even ordered some books on Amazon.com. Can you say, "BOOK FIEND"? Bwahahaa
I read THE HUNGER GAMES series and it was AMAZING. I read them quite rapidly. A month for all three with a short break between 2 and 3 to read THE GIVER (Again, 4 books in a month is quite a sum for me. A spectacular feat). But this series is absolutely my favorite. I'm very excited for the movies to spew forth.
I've seen many movies. The best and most interesting is THE SOCIAL NETWORK. It is about the creation of Facebook by that scoundrel, Mark Zuckerburg. The script (by Aaron Sorkin) is possibly the sharpest, most relevant, wittiest one of the year. I am very partial toward rapid fire dialogue between people that can keep up. It is shot with I wise hand by David Fincher. The casting was great as well. Jesse Eisinberg (I'm sure i'm botching the spelling on all of these names) as Mark, creates an ass of a guy who has heart. And who in the world would think that Justin Timberlake could act. I mean, more than is required for SNL skits. He plays Sean Parker, creator of Napster, and older brother figure to Mark.
Just go see it.
I've been in rehearsals for a new show coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios entitled DISNEY CHANNEL ROCKS. It has been a blast, but very challenging. I'll see if I ever get to to do it.
I got FINAL CUT PRO. Finally!! Four years in the making. I finished my first video project in years. It's about ninja-assassins. Yes, it's dorky and I feel confident you don't wanna see it.
Anyway, that's all for today folks.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Meditations
I'm starting to feel like I've lost my respect for movies. (I do realize that many of you are scoffing at those opening words. If you've ever heard me talk about Away We Go or any number of films, you will think it's silly for me to say such a thing.)
But it is my feeling. And I believe it to be true. I pondered today on this. 2 years ago, I would see movies alone, dressed nicely (i.e. Jeans and a blazer) to show repsect for the power that I know film has. The medium has changed my life. But it has been a while since I've done a movie old-fashioned, and, in my opinion, the good way. So tonight, seeing as I had no plans, I did a movie; 2008 style. Suited up, got some Wendy's to sneak in, even listed to music I was crazy about then. I'm very glad to say, it worked out and I had a resplendant cinematic excursion.
The film on the docket was Eat Pray Love. Yes, I know the face you're making. However, I'd heard from sources, that I consider reliable, that I should check it out. It is based on the memior by Elizabeth Gilbert, who, after a nasty divorce and a follow-up fling, decides to take a hiatus. She's stuck on the end of a teeter-totter and needs to find some balance. So, she goes on a year long journey to Italy, India, and Bali where she literally learns how to Eat, Pray, and Love (crazy. That's the title.)
It ended up being a very personal experience for me (I won't bore you with the details), but I am very glad I saw it alone. I am a firm believer that your experience with a movie can easily change with an additional member in your party. For some movies, that is ok. Others, I like to see alone first. I end up liking more movies that way.
But it is my feeling. And I believe it to be true. I pondered today on this. 2 years ago, I would see movies alone, dressed nicely (i.e. Jeans and a blazer) to show repsect for the power that I know film has. The medium has changed my life. But it has been a while since I've done a movie old-fashioned, and, in my opinion, the good way. So tonight, seeing as I had no plans, I did a movie; 2008 style. Suited up, got some Wendy's to sneak in, even listed to music I was crazy about then. I'm very glad to say, it worked out and I had a resplendant cinematic excursion.
The film on the docket was Eat Pray Love. Yes, I know the face you're making. However, I'd heard from sources, that I consider reliable, that I should check it out. It is based on the memior by Elizabeth Gilbert, who, after a nasty divorce and a follow-up fling, decides to take a hiatus. She's stuck on the end of a teeter-totter and needs to find some balance. So, she goes on a year long journey to Italy, India, and Bali where she literally learns how to Eat, Pray, and Love (crazy. That's the title.)
It ended up being a very personal experience for me (I won't bore you with the details), but I am very glad I saw it alone. I am a firm believer that your experience with a movie can easily change with an additional member in your party. For some movies, that is ok. Others, I like to see alone first. I end up liking more movies that way.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Cinematin Weekend: Female Empowerment Edition (SPOLER ALERT)
Yes, alas another cinematic weekend has occurred. Again, I saw two very different movies aimed at two DIFFERENT sects of people. So...let's get to it.
Salt is another empowered female character for Angelina Jolie to add to her arsenal. Evelyn Salt is a CIA agent accused of being a Russian sleeper agent. Of course, she runs. Because, in movies, you have to prove your innocence yourself rather than leave anything to the authorities. And its a good thing too, since a colleague is actually one of the various said sleeper agents. Angelina definitely pics a type and there is a reason. She's great at portraying those characters. Yes, they are all similar but she makes them different enough that you don't really mind seeing her shooting anything that is a noun, jumping from moving vehicle to moving vehicle, or perhaps, strangling someone with handcuffs.
Salt is your typical summer action blockbuster. However, what I liked most about the film was it went back to one of the most simple concepts in film making. It asked a question. Perhaps blatantly, as seen in the poster above, but it was nice to see a clear, simple question and have it answered. "Who is Salt?"
Was the movie a masterpiece? No. Was it fun and an escape from your bland, no-gun-totting, unrisk taking life? Hell yes!
B
Ok. So The Kids Are All Right is a movie I'd wanted to see for a few weeks. Its indie. Which normally signifies that I will enjoy it. Yeah...I was wrong.
It is a tale of a lesbian couple who's kids decide to meet their sperm donor father and how that decision affects all of their lives. Now, i consider myself pretty liberal for a boy raised in Mormonville, Utah. But I have to say, I felt like so much of the movie was so intensely pro-gay and even a little anti-straight.
That's not to say the movie wasn't well made. It really was (for the most part), well put together. But for a story that involves a marriage that overcomes infidelity, I couldn't see much reason to try and get past the mistake.
Annette Benning and Juliane Moore play Nic and Jules. Nic is a career woman who likes control and red wine. Jules is a trophy wife/house mom who never reached her full potential. From the minute the two share screen time, you know there is some tension. As the story continues (sometimes veering into the realm of unnecessary), you see that rather than being a couple, they are just two people, who it seems feel out of love some time ago. Its become a marriage of convenience rather than love. And while yes, there is something to be said for sticking together through tough times, when infidelity comes into play and the two are already disconnected...well, its hard to root for something like that.
Benning and Moore, both did a great job of crafting their characters. Its the union between them I have trouble buying. I don't really know who to blame for that. Actually I do. Director/Co-Writer Lisa Cholodenko.
I really wanted to like the movie. i was rooting for it. But one thing is evident to me.
The Kids Ain't All Right.
Salt is another empowered female character for Angelina Jolie to add to her arsenal. Evelyn Salt is a CIA agent accused of being a Russian sleeper agent. Of course, she runs. Because, in movies, you have to prove your innocence yourself rather than leave anything to the authorities. And its a good thing too, since a colleague is actually one of the various said sleeper agents. Angelina definitely pics a type and there is a reason. She's great at portraying those characters. Yes, they are all similar but she makes them different enough that you don't really mind seeing her shooting anything that is a noun, jumping from moving vehicle to moving vehicle, or perhaps, strangling someone with handcuffs.
Salt is your typical summer action blockbuster. However, what I liked most about the film was it went back to one of the most simple concepts in film making. It asked a question. Perhaps blatantly, as seen in the poster above, but it was nice to see a clear, simple question and have it answered. "Who is Salt?"
Was the movie a masterpiece? No. Was it fun and an escape from your bland, no-gun-totting, unrisk taking life? Hell yes!
B
Ok. So The Kids Are All Right is a movie I'd wanted to see for a few weeks. Its indie. Which normally signifies that I will enjoy it. Yeah...I was wrong.
It is a tale of a lesbian couple who's kids decide to meet their sperm donor father and how that decision affects all of their lives. Now, i consider myself pretty liberal for a boy raised in Mormonville, Utah. But I have to say, I felt like so much of the movie was so intensely pro-gay and even a little anti-straight.
That's not to say the movie wasn't well made. It really was (for the most part), well put together. But for a story that involves a marriage that overcomes infidelity, I couldn't see much reason to try and get past the mistake.
Annette Benning and Juliane Moore play Nic and Jules. Nic is a career woman who likes control and red wine. Jules is a trophy wife/house mom who never reached her full potential. From the minute the two share screen time, you know there is some tension. As the story continues (sometimes veering into the realm of unnecessary), you see that rather than being a couple, they are just two people, who it seems feel out of love some time ago. Its become a marriage of convenience rather than love. And while yes, there is something to be said for sticking together through tough times, when infidelity comes into play and the two are already disconnected...well, its hard to root for something like that.
Benning and Moore, both did a great job of crafting their characters. Its the union between them I have trouble buying. I don't really know who to blame for that. Actually I do. Director/Co-Writer Lisa Cholodenko.
I really wanted to like the movie. i was rooting for it. But one thing is evident to me.
The Kids Ain't All Right.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Nolan vs. Turteltaub
I am a religious reader of Entertainment Weekly. I get a lot of enjoyment out of this publicataion, until I begin to read the movie reviews.
This magazine has had the same two critics ever since I remember. I have read more reviews by Lisa Schwartzbaum and Owen Gleiberman than I honestly care to say and here is why.
THEY ARE BOTH IDIOTS! Seriously!
I was just reading Mr. Gleiberman's review of the new Disney movie The Sorcerer's Apprentice and he contridicts himself constantly. He names something that is awful then excuses it instantly.
"The Sorcerer's Apprentice is brought to you by the folks who created the National Treasure movies, producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Jon Turteltaub, and you can imagine them having a meeting in which they said: Let's make a movie in the same vein — only fizzier and dumber, even more kid-happy, with a lot more meaningless effects. In other words: Let's do a movie that makes the National Treasure films look sophisticated. You may think that I'm about to sneer, but I found the ticky-tacky, hocus-pocus foolishness of The Sorcerer's Apprentice appealing in a turn-off-your-frontal-lobes way. Watching the film, you don't have to pretend to care about rescuing the Declaration of Independence, and that's a relief."
NonononononoNONONONONO! You can't say it is "dumber" with "more meaningless special effects" and go on to say you liked it because they movie wasn't about "rescuing the Declaration of Independence". You still want to be taken seriously after that? That is a complete cop out. But then again this is the man that gave Madagascar an A.
Then I flip back a page and see that Lisa Schwartzbaum gave Inception, easily one of the best films out this year a B. Which is what Owen gave Apprentice. How you two dumbasses even put those two films on the same scale, I will never know. Let's compare shall we? Christopher Nolan vs. Jon Turteltaub? Leonardo Dicaprio and Ellen Page vs. Nicolas Cage and...Jay Baruchel? Am I insane here? Is there not a clear winner?
In the event that either of them ever reads this, I will ask one favor.
Owen and Lisa, step down as movie critics of my beloved magazine and for the worlds sake, NEVER WRITE ANOTHER REVIEW FOR ANY FILM EVER AGAIN!
If you'd like to read the full review among others you can do that here
This magazine has had the same two critics ever since I remember. I have read more reviews by Lisa Schwartzbaum and Owen Gleiberman than I honestly care to say and here is why.
THEY ARE BOTH IDIOTS! Seriously!
I was just reading Mr. Gleiberman's review of the new Disney movie The Sorcerer's Apprentice and he contridicts himself constantly. He names something that is awful then excuses it instantly.
"The Sorcerer's Apprentice is brought to you by the folks who created the National Treasure movies, producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Jon Turteltaub, and you can imagine them having a meeting in which they said: Let's make a movie in the same vein — only fizzier and dumber, even more kid-happy, with a lot more meaningless effects. In other words: Let's do a movie that makes the National Treasure films look sophisticated. You may think that I'm about to sneer, but I found the ticky-tacky, hocus-pocus foolishness of The Sorcerer's Apprentice appealing in a turn-off-your-frontal-lobes way. Watching the film, you don't have to pretend to care about rescuing the Declaration of Independence, and that's a relief."
NonononononoNONONONONO! You can't say it is "dumber" with "more meaningless special effects" and go on to say you liked it because they movie wasn't about "rescuing the Declaration of Independence". You still want to be taken seriously after that? That is a complete cop out. But then again this is the man that gave Madagascar an A.
Then I flip back a page and see that Lisa Schwartzbaum gave Inception, easily one of the best films out this year a B. Which is what Owen gave Apprentice. How you two dumbasses even put those two films on the same scale, I will never know. Let's compare shall we? Christopher Nolan vs. Jon Turteltaub? Leonardo Dicaprio and Ellen Page vs. Nicolas Cage and...Jay Baruchel? Am I insane here? Is there not a clear winner?
In the event that either of them ever reads this, I will ask one favor.
Owen and Lisa, step down as movie critics of my beloved magazine and for the worlds sake, NEVER WRITE ANOTHER REVIEW FOR ANY FILM EVER AGAIN!
If you'd like to read the full review among others you can do that here
Monday, May 31, 2010
Weekend at the Cinema
I had a cinematic weekend experience. Two very opposing movies in two nights. It was much needed for I hadn't sat in some cushioned stadium seating in near three weeks. It was about time.
The first film on the docket, was the video game-realized Prince of Persia: Sands of Time. I will fully admit that I was skeptical about this one. I mean, it has a very similar look as The Scorpion King and we all know how that turned out. Other odds were working against it as well. Mike Newell was directing. Remember the last big budget project he was given? He made Harry Potter and the Suckfest of Fire. He took a ship that needed a Captain and let it sink after hitting some very jagged rocks. So what was to stop him from doing it with a video game adaptation.
Its staring Jake Gyllenhaal, who, unfortunately, to me has just been the gay-er of the two cowboys for the last few years. Plus, in the trailer he was trying to do some accent that was kinda indistinguishable. Again, there is a crappy predecessor for big budget flicks with an American leading man "using" an accent (Brad Pitt in Troy, for those of you catching up).
But even with those insurmountable obstacles, I have to say, I really liked it. None of the afore mentioned crap-stacles got in its way. In fact, they all contributed to its success. Jake is now Dastan to me, badass acrobat. Mike Newell...well, I'm still really bothered about Harry Potter but this was a good start at making it up. So if you like action/adventure summer popcorn movies, I recommend:
Film 2:
Just Wright
This is definitely one of those chick-flicks that will be lost in time, but that's too bad because it quite enjoyable. Queen Latifa stars as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist who has always been the homegirl never the girlfriend. Common is Scott McKnight, a basketball player with a knee injury to rehabilitate. Cue predictability factor...Now.
Even though you know everything that is going to happen (somethings from the opening credits, some just seconds before) this movie did it with a charming touch. The dialogue is pleasant and witty (although sometimes over-acted. Queen Latifa, I'm talking to you) and gives you a male lead that knows when to take it slow. Common brings a likability to Scott when the character, in other hands, could have turned into douche-city.
There's a scene where Scott's fiancee comes back, after dumping him when he got injured, and wants to go forward with their previous plans of marriage right away. He stops her and says that that's moving way two fast when they JUST got back together.
He's a good guy that actually thinks before he acts. Its about time we had some cinematic representation.
If you want to see a predictable, dude-friendly chick flick, I recommend:
The first film on the docket, was the video game-realized Prince of Persia: Sands of Time. I will fully admit that I was skeptical about this one. I mean, it has a very similar look as The Scorpion King and we all know how that turned out. Other odds were working against it as well. Mike Newell was directing. Remember the last big budget project he was given? He made Harry Potter and the Suckfest of Fire. He took a ship that needed a Captain and let it sink after hitting some very jagged rocks. So what was to stop him from doing it with a video game adaptation.
Its staring Jake Gyllenhaal, who, unfortunately, to me has just been the gay-er of the two cowboys for the last few years. Plus, in the trailer he was trying to do some accent that was kinda indistinguishable. Again, there is a crappy predecessor for big budget flicks with an American leading man "using" an accent (Brad Pitt in Troy, for those of you catching up).
But even with those insurmountable obstacles, I have to say, I really liked it. None of the afore mentioned crap-stacles got in its way. In fact, they all contributed to its success. Jake is now Dastan to me, badass acrobat. Mike Newell...well, I'm still really bothered about Harry Potter but this was a good start at making it up. So if you like action/adventure summer popcorn movies, I recommend:
Film 2:
Just Wright
This is definitely one of those chick-flicks that will be lost in time, but that's too bad because it quite enjoyable. Queen Latifa stars as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist who has always been the homegirl never the girlfriend. Common is Scott McKnight, a basketball player with a knee injury to rehabilitate. Cue predictability factor...Now.
Even though you know everything that is going to happen (somethings from the opening credits, some just seconds before) this movie did it with a charming touch. The dialogue is pleasant and witty (although sometimes over-acted. Queen Latifa, I'm talking to you) and gives you a male lead that knows when to take it slow. Common brings a likability to Scott when the character, in other hands, could have turned into douche-city.
There's a scene where Scott's fiancee comes back, after dumping him when he got injured, and wants to go forward with their previous plans of marriage right away. He stops her and says that that's moving way two fast when they JUST got back together.
He's a good guy that actually thinks before he acts. Its about time we had some cinematic representation.
If you want to see a predictable, dude-friendly chick flick, I recommend:
Friday, February 5, 2010
Picture This
My friend Tin Tin (who provided the image above) gave his thoughts on the 2010 Best Picture nominations and thus, I thought I'd give mine as well.
Unfortunatly, I cannot speak with a high amount of authority as I have only seen half of the nominees but here are my thoughts. If you hate me after this, well thats unfortunate also.
Of course, you have the Big 5. The films that would still have a nod even if the limit was 5.
- Up in the Air
- Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire
- Inglorious Basterds
- The Hurt Locker
- Avatar
Duh. I can say for certain that the 3 of those I have seen should absolutely be on there. Next are the indies. The movies that, while still great, didn't quite hit the big time.
-An Education
-A Serious Man
Finally, with three nods left to dull out, the Academy chose films that lotsa people saw. I can think of other films that should gotten the chance but what can I say?
- Up
- The Blind Side
- District 9
These last three is where I am pissed. First, Up is...up for Best Picture and Best Animated Feature. I really feel like that shouldn't be an option. We all know it's gonna end up going home with AniFeat so why not leave a slot for a different great work this year? Or if they felt strongly enough that Up is just so fantastic it needs to get put with the big boys, stand by that decision and don't be so afraid that if it didn't win anything Pixar would be upset and we can't have that. Baaaawk bawk bawk.
Oh District 9. I'm absolutely fine for it being up for technical awards because in those respects the film was great. However, if you wanted to give it up to a second sci-fi crowd pleaser, why not give it to a more entertaing and equally well made Star Trek? Booo on that one Academy.
All I can do about The Blind Side is roll my eyes and feel uttery exasterbated. I just...no. sigh
Those be my thoughts. Take 'em or leave 'em.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Cinematic Contemplations: '10 edition
2 movies. 2 days. My thoughts? Here goes.
Avatar was really awesome. Epic. Here's the concept. High tech Pocahontas in space. Replace the native indians with crazy tall cat creatures called the Na'vi. Switch out John Smith (JS) for a parapalegic, jarhead named Jake Sulley (JS). And take out gold and put in a mysterious valuable substance called Umbium (I think that's what it's called. I couldn't really understand Giovanni Ribisi).
It is one of the most visually beautiful movies I have ever seen. James Cameron created a world (Pandora) that is so full of color and life. Every new animal we encounter shows more creativity and artistry than the last. It was so good that I'm going to see it again...wait for it......in 3D! And I don't do 3D so you know its a big deal.
My thoughts on It's Complicated are just that. Alec Baldwin and Meryl Streep have chemistry in a way, but, at the same time, feel mismatched. Both have great moments in the film. Unfortunatly, it was not enough to convince. My personal favorite part of this movie was John Krasinski as the son-in-law to be who becomes unwillingly privy to his in-laws affair.
Overall, Nancy Meyers' latest rom-com for the elderly was only okay. Hey, maybe that should be the title of her next movie. Only Okay starring Michael Cain and Helen Mirren.
Avatar was really awesome. Epic. Here's the concept. High tech Pocahontas in space. Replace the native indians with crazy tall cat creatures called the Na'vi. Switch out John Smith (JS) for a parapalegic, jarhead named Jake Sulley (JS). And take out gold and put in a mysterious valuable substance called Umbium (I think that's what it's called. I couldn't really understand Giovanni Ribisi).
It is one of the most visually beautiful movies I have ever seen. James Cameron created a world (Pandora) that is so full of color and life. Every new animal we encounter shows more creativity and artistry than the last. It was so good that I'm going to see it again...wait for it......in 3D! And I don't do 3D so you know its a big deal.
My thoughts on It's Complicated are just that. Alec Baldwin and Meryl Streep have chemistry in a way, but, at the same time, feel mismatched. Both have great moments in the film. Unfortunatly, it was not enough to convince. My personal favorite part of this movie was John Krasinski as the son-in-law to be who becomes unwillingly privy to his in-laws affair.
Overall, Nancy Meyers' latest rom-com for the elderly was only okay. Hey, maybe that should be the title of her next movie. Only Okay starring Michael Cain and Helen Mirren.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Best of '09
2009. A year of movies. Not all great, not all bad. I unfortunatly haven't seen all the movies I'd like and/or need to see. But alas, here are the best of what I did see. Well, the best and maybe one or two favorites.
1. Up in the Air. Amazingly crafted, beautifully acted and directed. Jason Reitman's best film.
2. Away We Go. This heartwarming film about a couple trying to find where they should settle down and start their family has been dismissed by critics. Don't listen to those skeptics. See it for yourself first. It's beautiful.
3. I Love You, Man. The best 'bromantic' comedy to date. Every performance in this movie is comic perfection. Paul Rudd. Jason Segal. Best Men.
4. Star Trek. This reboot most likely would have been wretched had it not been for J.J. Abrams at its helm. He has the midas touch.
5. Inglourious Basterds. Quinten Tarintino's WWII noir was one of the most trigger happy films of the year. An one a lot of fun to watch.
6. Up. Pixar can officially do no wrong. One of their most beautifully animated movies they have released.
7. The Proposal. Ok. Fine. This is more of a guilty pleasure. But Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds are so great together in this comedy. Betty White's cameo alone is worth a viewing.
8. Taken. Liam Neeson kicks some serious French and bad guy ass as the father of a kidnapped girl. Amazing action in this movie.
9. The Hangover. I do realize I have put alot of comedies on the list but I would be remiss if I left this one out. To borrow the tag from the movie, "Some guys just can't handle Vegas". Perhaps, but it's really fun to watch them try.
10. (500) Days of Summer. This unconventional story ("This is NOT a love story," the narrator explains) about a boy who meets a girl showcases great performances from it's lead actors and an awesome soundtrack.
As for the worst? Well, I believe a picture tells a thousand words so I'll let the posters tell you of the hours of wasted time the hold.
1. Up in the Air. Amazingly crafted, beautifully acted and directed. Jason Reitman's best film.
2. Away We Go. This heartwarming film about a couple trying to find where they should settle down and start their family has been dismissed by critics. Don't listen to those skeptics. See it for yourself first. It's beautiful.
3. I Love You, Man. The best 'bromantic' comedy to date. Every performance in this movie is comic perfection. Paul Rudd. Jason Segal. Best Men.
4. Star Trek. This reboot most likely would have been wretched had it not been for J.J. Abrams at its helm. He has the midas touch.
5. Inglourious Basterds. Quinten Tarintino's WWII noir was one of the most trigger happy films of the year. An one a lot of fun to watch.
6. Up. Pixar can officially do no wrong. One of their most beautifully animated movies they have released.
7. The Proposal. Ok. Fine. This is more of a guilty pleasure. But Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds are so great together in this comedy. Betty White's cameo alone is worth a viewing.
8. Taken. Liam Neeson kicks some serious French and bad guy ass as the father of a kidnapped girl. Amazing action in this movie.
9. The Hangover. I do realize I have put alot of comedies on the list but I would be remiss if I left this one out. To borrow the tag from the movie, "Some guys just can't handle Vegas". Perhaps, but it's really fun to watch them try.
10. (500) Days of Summer. This unconventional story ("This is NOT a love story," the narrator explains) about a boy who meets a girl showcases great performances from it's lead actors and an awesome soundtrack.
As for the worst? Well, I believe a picture tells a thousand words so I'll let the posters tell you of the hours of wasted time the hold.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Up in the Air
I should've gotten this done days ago. But life has been 1 part chaotic, 2 parts busy, with a spritz of sleep. I'm gonna try to catch up on my blogging today as its my 1 day off before the new year and things need to get blogged.
First.
I saw a film called Up in the Air. It was so good. Its a story of a man who flies the country place to place. He spends most of his days on aircrats, accumulating frequent flyer miles (His goal is to collect 10,000,000. An amount which 7-8 have ever gotten). His job is what has him in the air 325 days out of the year. He is hired through a company to come to various cities in various states to fire people. But it's more complicated than that. His official line of work is called "Career Transition Counseling". So along with doing the dirty work, he gets the employees to feel empowered by their uneployment.
Its a self realization story that is deftly executed by Jason Reitman. He is coming to be one of my favorite directors. Thank You For Smoking, Juno, and now Up in the Air. He is proving himself to be the ruler of seriocomedies. He directs an amazing cast as well. George Clooney's turn as lead character Ryan, is definatly worthy of an Oscar nod. As is Anna Kendrick's performance as up-and-comer Natalie.
So go see the movie. Support the occasional Jason Reitman amazingness that gets released. Maybe that way, more amazing may spring forth into our lives.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Twenty T(Want My Money Back)
Sorry for the delay everyone. I arrived back in Florida to situations that needed my immediate attention. But everything is good now.
So I was amidst my thankful mood, but I need to pause to deliver and important message.
DON'T SEE 2012.
It is a waste of money on your part. I mean, unless some is purchasing this particular viewing experience on your behalf, you might as well take your $10, walk to your nearest restroom, and flush it. That'd probably be a better use of your money.
Ok, while yes, I am being harsh, 2.5 hour cinematic trash deserves a written lashing. The movie capitolizes on the concept of "These are the last days. The end is...TOMORROW!" bahbah baaaaahhhhhhhhhh. You think thats all the story needed to make a good movie? No. No; Bad Roland Emmerich! Stop making useless movies for the sole purpose of rapping our retinas with visual effects.
All of the characters in this movie were easily forgettable. John Cusack seems on the "Career-fizzle train"(Imagine Mary Murphy screaming that to him from across the room. Puts a slight smile on your face.). My favorite part was a death of a character. It was hilarious. If that is my favorite part of a movie, it's gotta be pretty bad.
So please, at least wait and get it from your neighborhood redbox. Had the circumstances been different, I don't think I would have even done that.
So I was amidst my thankful mood, but I need to pause to deliver and important message.
DON'T SEE 2012.
It is a waste of money on your part. I mean, unless some is purchasing this particular viewing experience on your behalf, you might as well take your $10, walk to your nearest restroom, and flush it. That'd probably be a better use of your money.
Ok, while yes, I am being harsh, 2.5 hour cinematic trash deserves a written lashing. The movie capitolizes on the concept of "These are the last days. The end is...TOMORROW!" bahbah baaaaahhhhhhhhhh. You think thats all the story needed to make a good movie? No. No; Bad Roland Emmerich! Stop making useless movies for the sole purpose of rapping our retinas with visual effects.
All of the characters in this movie were easily forgettable. John Cusack seems on the "Career-fizzle train"(Imagine Mary Murphy screaming that to him from across the room. Puts a slight smile on your face.). My favorite part was a death of a character. It was hilarious. If that is my favorite part of a movie, it's gotta be pretty bad.
So please, at least wait and get it from your neighborhood redbox. Had the circumstances been different, I don't think I would have even done that.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda
Couples Retreat is a nice lil' comedy with Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, and Jon Farvau among others of comedy decent. Now, with all these funny people, you'd expect the movie to me really funny, right? Like a slew of funny that you're unable to stop cause you're outnumbered. Yeah, it's not that. It's a moderatly humorous salute to couples of vaca. See it, but keep your expectations low and you'll come out with a brighter outlook on it.
Now that's out of the way, I shredded my vocal chords. Like intensely ripped them up and tossed them in the shredder. You see, my job entails quite a bit of screamage. I mean, there's an entire section of the BPB called "Scream". This is a parade I do basically everyday. Then there's HSM, which you aren't nessicarily required to scream, however, it's implied that you should. The initial ripping happened last Friday. Compound that with 3 additional Scream party bash and HSM and you wind see in me rumaging through the garbage, sifting through the bits of bank statements and assorted junk mail, in hopes that I can Scotch tape my voice back together. Wish me luck
Monday, October 5, 2009
Cinematic Contemplations
So I saw two movies in the past couple of days and here are my thoughts.
Last Friday, I saw The Invention of Lying. Good things first:
1. The first thirty minutes or so are extremely funny. People feeling compeled to tell the truth of course yields much comedy.
2. Jennifer Garner. I think thats all I need to say about that.
3. There are many a cameo. You might even call it 'Star-studded'. Edward Norton plays a heroine huffing cop. Pretty darn funny.
Ok, now the unpleasant part. If you have any affiliations with nearly any Christian religion, I don't recomend this movie. It is not for you. Go see the Toy Story 3D double feature. I think that's a safer choice.
Today, I saw Zombieland. Normally, I am not one for the zombie flick, but everynow and then one looks appealing to me. I think the last one I saw was I Am Legend, just to give you an idea of how often I go to movies featuring the undead.
Anyway, it was pretty good. It definatly made light of the inard consumers that had seemed to conquer the US. Woody Harrelson is great as an over-eager kicker of zombie ass. And Emma Stone is...well, she's really hot. And the cameo of a comedy legend is pretty surprising and brings a nice break from the growling sludge/blood-spitters chasing after our protaginists. If you have a strong stomach and enjoy amusement parks, you should check it out.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Fill Me In
So I'm starting to suck at updating my blog. I'm working on it. Fill in starts now.
-I don't know how to make bullits. Thats kinda frustrating.
-I did something new yesterday. I hung out with Genie during MISICI. It was so much easier than walking stilts. Just danced around on a box instead of sluggishly dragging steel strapped to my aching legs. Genie had no idea where in the music his lines were supposed to go, but it really didn't matter cause no one was looking at him. Just like high school.
-I have this dance stuck in my head. It's to Roisin Murphy's "Sinking Feeling". (As always, you can find it in the playlist on the right.) I am working out all the choreography. I think it'll be really cool but I have no one to perform the visions in my head. I might see if 7th Day Productions will let me teach a pop-jazz class sometime.
-Said dance was actually inspired by Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I've started rereading the entire series from the beggining with Jen because somehow she has never read them. Silly girl. We're nearly done with Sorcerer's Stone. just a-plowin right through them.
-It's my day off. This wouldn't really be noteworthy accept that working for the company has gotten my to dislike days off. I have no idea what to do with myself. So I usually go to the gym and go see a movie. Todays film is called Inglorious Basterds. Quintin Tarentino's (that is not spelled correctly) new movie about a WWII band of vigilantes aiming to take down as many Nazi's possible. I'll let you know how that goes.
I think thats all for now. Stay classy
-I don't know how to make bullits. Thats kinda frustrating.
-I did something new yesterday. I hung out with Genie during MISICI. It was so much easier than walking stilts. Just danced around on a box instead of sluggishly dragging steel strapped to my aching legs. Genie had no idea where in the music his lines were supposed to go, but it really didn't matter cause no one was looking at him. Just like high school.
-I have this dance stuck in my head. It's to Roisin Murphy's "Sinking Feeling". (As always, you can find it in the playlist on the right.) I am working out all the choreography. I think it'll be really cool but I have no one to perform the visions in my head. I might see if 7th Day Productions will let me teach a pop-jazz class sometime.
-Said dance was actually inspired by Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I've started rereading the entire series from the beggining with Jen because somehow she has never read them. Silly girl. We're nearly done with Sorcerer's Stone. just a-plowin right through them.
-It's my day off. This wouldn't really be noteworthy accept that working for the company has gotten my to dislike days off. I have no idea what to do with myself. So I usually go to the gym and go see a movie. Todays film is called Inglorious Basterds. Quintin Tarentino's (that is not spelled correctly) new movie about a WWII band of vigilantes aiming to take down as many Nazi's possible. I'll let you know how that goes.
I think thats all for now. Stay classy
Monday, June 29, 2009
Away We Go
Children! Kids! Teens! Younglings! Wisacres! (I don't know why that last one, it just sounded fun.)
You havehavehaveHAVE to go see Away We Go.
(WARNING: There is a possibility of me sounding like a dueche in the following lines of praise.)
It is so...real. This movie. The Real Deal. It's about a couple who travels across the country in search for the right place to raise their child. They decide they want to be near friends and/or family, so they visit their scattered aquaintences.
First, I wanna say what a great pair John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph are. I was kinda skeptical at first. I mean, "Big Tuna" and that girl from SNL? But they had this amazing connection. One that you don't see in movies very often. You can just look at them on screen and know they're in love.
Dear Sam Mendes,
You did great. You told a story that wasn't the most depressing thing I've ever heard (see: Revolutionary Road, American Beauty). You told a story of love and you did it with caution and care. Thank you sir, for bringing this film about (ok, I hope I'm done sounding deuchey now).
Look, sweet todlers, I don't wanna say much more because I don't wanna take away from your experience with this movie. Just know that it is heartfelt and crazy and lovely and heartwrenching and hilarious and sweet and about 30 other things that I could but won't go into right now.
For your consideration: Away We Go
Monday, May 25, 2009
Amy
And more hot red-heads. I saw Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian which was really good, but that is not what this is about. I love Amy Adams. She is so beautiful and talented and I'd probably see any movie she's in because I love her so.
Having said that, you should check out the movie. It's surprisingly funny. Hank Azeria plays a lisping pharoah. There's Lincoln monument, the thinker, Ivan the Terrible, and all the characters from the first movie. It's kinda epic. But yeah, you should check it out.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
See Star Trek and Prosper
J.J. Abrams (director, Mission Impossible III, Lost) could get me to love anything. He has made the re-vamp of Star Trek and it totally kicks Romulan ass.
I've boiled it down to this: It let's you be smart. You don't have to know the history of the Federation of Planets or how to speak Vulcan to understand whats going on. It lets you figure it out and it's ok. Great even. A-
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Hellloooo Ann-Margret!
I freaking LOVE this movie. It's a movie from my childhood that I haven't seen in years. The other day I got the melodies stuck in my head and I knew I had to find a copy of it. So after a few days of searching I found it at Best Buy. It's so good.
And it could be just me, but, after watching it, I'm thinking Ann-Margret (who plays Kim MacAfee, a girl chosen to recieve a kiss on the Ed Sullivan show by Conrad Birdie, an Army-bound Elvis look alike) is really sexy in the movie. There's a scene where she puts on a sweater over her dress then takes off the dress from under the sweater. uh...HOT!
Anyway, here is the the big dance number from the show, "Lot of Livin' to Do". Enjoy as I have.
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