Viewed in
2011
Formats
TV
Premise
Hugh Grant stars as a single playboy whose life is changed when he befriends a twelve year old boy.
Liked
The acting, the writing.
Thoughts
I really liked the characters in this thoughtful film.
Hugh Grant was fantastic. Even though portraying a womanizer was easily in his wheelhouse, he was not a caricature, but a human soul, with loneliness seeping through his eyes. Nicholas Hault was was very believable as the kid. It was quite a breath of fresh air to have a young character who was not cute/hip/sharp. Instead, he was just an awkward boy, struggling to fit in at school, getting embarrassed by his mother, and dealing with hormones. Together they created a memorable duo who served as the heart of the film.
The writing had a good balance of funny dialog and cute moments with undertones of depression and isolation. They felt like real people dealing with issues, not in a gritty way, but in a smart, entertaining way. One thing I found to be interesting was that it had two characters doing internal monologues. Considering this was from a Nick Hornsby novel, I assume this was done to help put the character's innermost thoughts/emotions onto screen. And it basically worked, even if it felt odd.
About a Boy worked as a tender comedy-drama thanks to some really likable, and human, lead characters. The only drawback was getting Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly" stuck in your head afterward.
What I would change
Taken out the two hallucinatory moments near the beginning, as they were distracting and unnecessary.
Showing posts with label 2002. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2002. Show all posts
About Schmidt
Viewed in
2003
Premise
In his attempt to win another Oscar, Jack Nicholson plays a recently-retired and recently-widowed man who goes on a soul-searching adventure.
Who should watch
Nicholson fans.
Thoughts
I liked it because it was weird and subtle. Jack Nicholson demonstrated that he has acting range with this low-key, subdued performance.
People suckered into 'from the director of "Sideways"' marketing might be sorely disappointed. They probably will find it lacking spunk and slow.
I was warned ahead of time of Kathy Bates being nude. So it was not that big of a deal for me. I understood the context of the scene, and was not just purely a publicity stunt.
What I would change
On second thought, the Kathy Bates nude scene was unnecessary.
2003
Premise
In his attempt to win another Oscar, Jack Nicholson plays a recently-retired and recently-widowed man who goes on a soul-searching adventure.
Who should watch
Nicholson fans.
Thoughts
I liked it because it was weird and subtle. Jack Nicholson demonstrated that he has acting range with this low-key, subdued performance.
People suckered into 'from the director of "Sideways"' marketing might be sorely disappointed. They probably will find it lacking spunk and slow.
I was warned ahead of time of Kathy Bates being nude. So it was not that big of a deal for me. I understood the context of the scene, and was not just purely a publicity stunt.
What I would change
On second thought, the Kathy Bates nude scene was unnecessary.
Ali G Indahouse
Viewed in
2009
Premise
Sacha Baron Cohen's British wangsta character is elected to Parliament.
Who should watch
Those who want an excellent fish-out-of-water comedy with a British twist.
Thoughts
This film made me laugh a lot.
I have never seen 'Da Ali G Show', so this was my first time exposed to his character and was thoroughly entertained. The performances very charming and there were numerous jokes that I thought were well-done. I'm sure I missed some British jokes, but overall the crude, idiot, satirical humor was very universal.
While his performance as Borat was much braver, I definitely was glad to know Cohen is capable of broader comedy. Speaking of Borat, I loved his cameo! As a fan of the original 'The Office', I was also impressed with Martin Freeman's range of comedy talent. Lastly, I was shocked to find Dumbledore in here.
The main flaw was that the plot did not bring anything new to the fill-in-the-blank turns fill-in-the-blank upside down by being elected to fill-in-the-blank.
Funny, formulaic, British sense of humor.
What I would change
Nothing.
2009
Premise
Sacha Baron Cohen's British wangsta character is elected to Parliament.
Who should watch
Those who want an excellent fish-out-of-water comedy with a British twist.
Thoughts
This film made me laugh a lot.
I have never seen 'Da Ali G Show', so this was my first time exposed to his character and was thoroughly entertained. The performances very charming and there were numerous jokes that I thought were well-done. I'm sure I missed some British jokes, but overall the crude, idiot, satirical humor was very universal.
While his performance as Borat was much braver, I definitely was glad to know Cohen is capable of broader comedy. Speaking of Borat, I loved his cameo! As a fan of the original 'The Office', I was also impressed with Martin Freeman's range of comedy talent. Lastly, I was shocked to find Dumbledore in here.
The main flaw was that the plot did not bring anything new to the fill-in-the-blank turns fill-in-the-blank upside down by being elected to fill-in-the-blank.
Funny, formulaic, British sense of humor.
What I would change
Nothing.
Bend it Like Beckham
Viewed in
2003
Premise
A British Indian girl wants to play futbol, to her conservative parents' dismay.
Who should watch
Those who want something positive for young girls.
Thoughts
I found it enjoyable. There was some good young girl empowerment, as well as some tackling of sexism, racism and generation gaps. The themes were universal. Keira Knightley was cute.
What I would change
Nothing.
2003
Premise
A British Indian girl wants to play futbol, to her conservative parents' dismay.
Who should watch
Those who want something positive for young girls.
Thoughts
I found it enjoyable. There was some good young girl empowerment, as well as some tackling of sexism, racism and generation gaps. The themes were universal. Keira Knightley was cute.
What I would change
Nothing.
Better Luck Tomorrow
Viewed in
2007
Premise
Rich Asian high schoolers gone wild.
Who should watch
Those who like small, different movies. Asian Americans?
Thoughts
The Asian-pride part of me was happy to see a movie in which Asians were not fobbish nerds nor taciturn kung fu fighters. Cinematically, it was cool to see that Asian Americans can be as foul and nasty as any stereotypical high school bully.
The plot was different and brave. I enjoyed some of the dark comedy and Asian-themed jokes. Also, it was cool to see John Cho in a different role.
However, the plausibility of all the characters' actions seemed implausible. I could not believe all those event could happen in a span of four months. Nor could all that happen without realistic consequences. I understand that was the point of the movie, that Asian kids can be as ruthless as anyone else, but if the complications were more realistic, imagine how scary this movie could have been.
What I would change
Cut down on the random, flashy MTV camera tricks.
2007
Premise
Rich Asian high schoolers gone wild.
Who should watch
Those who like small, different movies. Asian Americans?
Thoughts
The Asian-pride part of me was happy to see a movie in which Asians were not fobbish nerds nor taciturn kung fu fighters. Cinematically, it was cool to see that Asian Americans can be as foul and nasty as any stereotypical high school bully.
The plot was different and brave. I enjoyed some of the dark comedy and Asian-themed jokes. Also, it was cool to see John Cho in a different role.
However, the plausibility of all the characters' actions seemed implausible. I could not believe all those event could happen in a span of four months. Nor could all that happen without realistic consequences. I understand that was the point of the movie, that Asian kids can be as ruthless as anyone else, but if the complications were more realistic, imagine how scary this movie could have been.
What I would change
Cut down on the random, flashy MTV camera tricks.
Bourne Identity, The
Viewed in
2007
Premise
A man suffering from amnesia finds out he's really good at being a secret agent. Based on the novel.
Who should watch
Matt Damon fans. Fans of the book.
Thoughts
It was well made. I was somewhat reminded of movies like 'The French Connection', especially in terms of realistic characters and authentic car chases. While I knew about the main character's amnesia, I did not expect him to have a college student get sucked into the plot. I really liked how that was handled, and that was my favorite part.
What I would change
I would speed up the pacing in some of the places.
2007
Premise
A man suffering from amnesia finds out he's really good at being a secret agent. Based on the novel.
Who should watch
Matt Damon fans. Fans of the book.
Thoughts
It was well made. I was somewhat reminded of movies like 'The French Connection', especially in terms of realistic characters and authentic car chases. While I knew about the main character's amnesia, I did not expect him to have a college student get sucked into the plot. I really liked how that was handled, and that was my favorite part.
What I would change
I would speed up the pacing in some of the places.
Bowling for Columbine
Viewed in
2011
Formats
TV
Premise
A documentary by Michael Moore about the Columbine shootings and guns in American society.
Liked
The vast topics that he covers.
Thoughts
I have a queasy stomach, so it was really hard for me to watch raw footage of the shootings, and an assortment of graphic gun violence caught on tape.
Moore basically did a good job of letting the story tell itself. He pulled some stunts, such as the uncomfortable confrontation with Charlton Heston, but the message came across clearly. I liked that we got to see a personal side of him, as his home state of Michigan was a part of the tragedies he talked about.
Another thing I enjoyed was how he kept trying to ties things up to the big picture. The film gave numerous history lessons, with topics about media tactics, civilian prejudice, and America's foreign policy that might not seem related to Columbine on paper. These moments were definitely educational, and helped me keep things in perspective and open-minded.
Obviously, an agenda-ed documentary like this needed stats to support its argument. But the stat for number of people killed by guns per country was a bit unfair. Not surprisingly, the figures for the United States was staggeringly large, but in the back of my mind, I wondered if the gap between us and other countries would be less had it been converted to a population percentage.
It was interesting that Columbine is not as prominent of a subject as the title suggested. In context of the film, that probably was a good idea. After all, it had been covered ad nauseum. An exploration into why Americans tend to shoot each other more often than other developed countries was definitely more worthwhile than retracing two troubled teenagers and the people they hurt.
Overall, Bowling for Columbine was a pretty intelligent film. Moore's presence was not annoying, and I learned some good points of views about the subject. He did not simplistically bash the Second Amendment, but just questioned its role in modern society. As an essay, it could have been tighter, but I liked all the different angles that he explored, showing a nuanced discussion about such a polarizing topic.
What I would change
Omitted explicit footage of gun violence.
2011
Formats
TV
Premise
A documentary by Michael Moore about the Columbine shootings and guns in American society.
Liked
The vast topics that he covers.
Thoughts
I have a queasy stomach, so it was really hard for me to watch raw footage of the shootings, and an assortment of graphic gun violence caught on tape.
Moore basically did a good job of letting the story tell itself. He pulled some stunts, such as the uncomfortable confrontation with Charlton Heston, but the message came across clearly. I liked that we got to see a personal side of him, as his home state of Michigan was a part of the tragedies he talked about.
Another thing I enjoyed was how he kept trying to ties things up to the big picture. The film gave numerous history lessons, with topics about media tactics, civilian prejudice, and America's foreign policy that might not seem related to Columbine on paper. These moments were definitely educational, and helped me keep things in perspective and open-minded.
Obviously, an agenda-ed documentary like this needed stats to support its argument. But the stat for number of people killed by guns per country was a bit unfair. Not surprisingly, the figures for the United States was staggeringly large, but in the back of my mind, I wondered if the gap between us and other countries would be less had it been converted to a population percentage.
It was interesting that Columbine is not as prominent of a subject as the title suggested. In context of the film, that probably was a good idea. After all, it had been covered ad nauseum. An exploration into why Americans tend to shoot each other more often than other developed countries was definitely more worthwhile than retracing two troubled teenagers and the people they hurt.
Overall, Bowling for Columbine was a pretty intelligent film. Moore's presence was not annoying, and I learned some good points of views about the subject. He did not simplistically bash the Second Amendment, but just questioned its role in modern society. As an essay, it could have been tighter, but I liked all the different angles that he explored, showing a nuanced discussion about such a polarizing topic.
What I would change
Omitted explicit footage of gun violence.
Bubba Ho-tep
Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Bruce Campbell stars as an elderly Elvis Presley, forced to fight a murderous mummy in a retirement home.
Loved
The premise.
Liked
The offbeat comedy, Bruce Campbell.
Thoughts
If, like me, you thought the premise was uniquely awesome, you won't be disappointed by the film.
Casting Bruce Campbell as the King was inspired and perfect, thanks to the baggage of his film resume of tongue-in-cheek horror flicks. What made this a pleasant surprise was his performance. More than an imitation of Elvis, he made his character come to life, and made the wacky situation work by not winking at the camera. Ossie Davis also put in a strong straight performance as JFK (don't ask).
Throughout the film, the premise created offbeat moments of comedy and character. At the same time, everyone from the cast and crew played the material straight, letting the absurdity of the situation breath on its own.
At times, it felt like a short story stretched too thin. Ironically, with the dead air it needed to fill, the expositions about the mummy were rather unclear, like forgetting to explain the scarab beetles.
I definitely enjoyed this wacky romp, thanks to the fun premise and Campbell's performance.
What I would change
Nothing.
Random
Usually I see Animal Wranglers mentioned in the credits. By why do you need Senior Wranglers?
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Bruce Campbell stars as an elderly Elvis Presley, forced to fight a murderous mummy in a retirement home.
Loved
The premise.
Liked
The offbeat comedy, Bruce Campbell.
Thoughts
If, like me, you thought the premise was uniquely awesome, you won't be disappointed by the film.
Casting Bruce Campbell as the King was inspired and perfect, thanks to the baggage of his film resume of tongue-in-cheek horror flicks. What made this a pleasant surprise was his performance. More than an imitation of Elvis, he made his character come to life, and made the wacky situation work by not winking at the camera. Ossie Davis also put in a strong straight performance as JFK (don't ask).
Throughout the film, the premise created offbeat moments of comedy and character. At the same time, everyone from the cast and crew played the material straight, letting the absurdity of the situation breath on its own.
At times, it felt like a short story stretched too thin. Ironically, with the dead air it needed to fill, the expositions about the mummy were rather unclear, like forgetting to explain the scarab beetles.
I definitely enjoyed this wacky romp, thanks to the fun premise and Campbell's performance.
What I would change
Nothing.
Random
Usually I see Animal Wranglers mentioned in the credits. By why do you need Senior Wranglers?
Catch Me If You Can
Viewed in
2010, 2011
Formats
DVD
Premise
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Frank Abagnale, America's notorious check forger. Based on Abagnale's autobiography.
Loved
DiCaprio's acting.
Liked
The interesting story.
Thoughts
A very well-acted, light-hearted crime drama.
Sometimes I take good acting for granted. While this was not a serious, or an "Oscar" movie, I was amazed by how effortless DiCaprio's performance was as the smart, manipulative, charming, but ultimately lonely, idealistic con artist. While his character never admitted it, you could feel his character's deep familial pains even when he was at his "richest".
The rest of the cast was equally impressive in star power and teamwork. While Tom Hanks probably got the top billings in marketing, he was intentionally toned down (as the FBI agent in pursuit), as to not usurp the acting pecking order. Christopher Walken played merely an slightly eccentric dad. An undiscovered Amy Adams played the love interest.
I thought the story was very interesting. It had a mix of cat-and-mouse, history, and character-driven moments. My favorite moments were Abagnale at his lying best. Part of it has to do with the fact that he was never a monster. I could not help but love this scrappy kid for using his wits and improvisations, instead of weapons or fear, to get away with all his riches. The film smartly contrasted them with his yearnings to patch his family together.
What prevented it from being great was the lack of an emotional climax. The last family scenes were supposed to have some payoff, but I did not feel much. I think it failed because the truths of his pain was repetitious pronounced throughout the film, and the key scenes felt predictable. A great drama does not have to make me cry, but I should feel something when it wants me to.
Still this flaw was dwarfed by Leonardo DiCaprio's acting, the film's cast, and the engrossing story. It was kind of refreshing to see a crime drama that did not end in death and tragedy.
What I would change
Marketed it as a drama instead of a comedy.
Personal
I was amused to see 24's Tim Woods as one of Hanks' colleagues.
2010, 2011
Formats
DVD
Premise
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Frank Abagnale, America's notorious check forger. Based on Abagnale's autobiography.
Loved
DiCaprio's acting.
Liked
The interesting story.
Thoughts
A very well-acted, light-hearted crime drama.
Sometimes I take good acting for granted. While this was not a serious, or an "Oscar" movie, I was amazed by how effortless DiCaprio's performance was as the smart, manipulative, charming, but ultimately lonely, idealistic con artist. While his character never admitted it, you could feel his character's deep familial pains even when he was at his "richest".
The rest of the cast was equally impressive in star power and teamwork. While Tom Hanks probably got the top billings in marketing, he was intentionally toned down (as the FBI agent in pursuit), as to not usurp the acting pecking order. Christopher Walken played merely an slightly eccentric dad. An undiscovered Amy Adams played the love interest.
I thought the story was very interesting. It had a mix of cat-and-mouse, history, and character-driven moments. My favorite moments were Abagnale at his lying best. Part of it has to do with the fact that he was never a monster. I could not help but love this scrappy kid for using his wits and improvisations, instead of weapons or fear, to get away with all his riches. The film smartly contrasted them with his yearnings to patch his family together.
What prevented it from being great was the lack of an emotional climax. The last family scenes were supposed to have some payoff, but I did not feel much. I think it failed because the truths of his pain was repetitious pronounced throughout the film, and the key scenes felt predictable. A great drama does not have to make me cry, but I should feel something when it wants me to.
Still this flaw was dwarfed by Leonardo DiCaprio's acting, the film's cast, and the engrossing story. It was kind of refreshing to see a crime drama that did not end in death and tragedy.
What I would change
Marketed it as a drama instead of a comedy.
Personal
I was amused to see 24's Tim Woods as one of Hanks' colleagues.
Chicago
Viewed in
2003
Premise
Movie version of the musical.
Who should watch
Musical fans.
Thoughts
This totally did not deserve to win Best Picture.
It was just a fancy, well-done musical. I am not a big fan of MTV-style presentation of musicals; I want to see the stars sing and dance without camera tricks. There was lots of good acting, singing and dancing by the star-studded cast. Richard Gere was the coolest.
What I would change
More longer shots of the music scenes.
2003
Premise
Movie version of the musical.
Who should watch
Musical fans.
Thoughts
This totally did not deserve to win Best Picture.
It was just a fancy, well-done musical. I am not a big fan of MTV-style presentation of musicals; I want to see the stars sing and dance without camera tricks. There was lots of good acting, singing and dancing by the star-studded cast. Richard Gere was the coolest.
What I would change
More longer shots of the music scenes.
8 Mile
Viewed in
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Eminem stars in a movie loosely based on his pre-stardom life.
Liked
Acting, music.
Thoughts
A surprisingly solid flick.
Even if Eminem only had two faces at his disposal (Mr. Broody and Mr. Angry), he was actually very solid as the lead. Director Curtis Hanson smartly surrounded him with quality actors, like Anthony Mackie, Kim Basinger, and the late Brittany Murphy.
While the overall arc was familiar, it did make an effort to not rely on cliches throughout the movie. I also liked how Hanson tried to make Detroit more than a setting.
As expected, there was a good amount of hip hop and rap music throughout, and the rap battles were cool, though I kind of wished there was more of Eminem rapping.
8 Mile should be enjoyable for Marshall Mathers fans, hardcore and casual.
Last but not least, I finally know why people call Plaxico Burress "Cheddar Bob".
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Eminem stars in a movie loosely based on his pre-stardom life.
Liked
Acting, music.
Thoughts
A surprisingly solid flick.
Even if Eminem only had two faces at his disposal (Mr. Broody and Mr. Angry), he was actually very solid as the lead. Director Curtis Hanson smartly surrounded him with quality actors, like Anthony Mackie, Kim Basinger, and the late Brittany Murphy.
While the overall arc was familiar, it did make an effort to not rely on cliches throughout the movie. I also liked how Hanson tried to make Detroit more than a setting.
As expected, there was a good amount of hip hop and rap music throughout, and the rap battles were cool, though I kind of wished there was more of Eminem rapping.
8 Mile should be enjoyable for Marshall Mathers fans, hardcore and casual.
Last but not least, I finally know why people call Plaxico Burress "Cheddar Bob".
Equilibrium
Viewed in
2007
Premise
In a world where everyone takes a Prozac on steroids to suppress their emotions and need for violence, an elite killing squad is in charge of keeping the peace.
Who should watch
Those who wants to watch a cool, action flick with some brains.
Thoughts
This was a cool mix of 'Matrix' and 'Fahrenheit 451'. I enjoyed the social commentary about emotion versus control, love versus protection, humanity versus medication. The hybrid gun kung-fu action was fun. In a rare instance, the fighting with guns was actually graceful and fluid. Also, I liked the leads, including Christian Bale and the beautiful Emily Watson.
Christian Bale kicked butt, unfortunately, his unemotional character reminded me of Michael Keaton stuck in the Batman suit from the 1989 movie. Some minor flaws was the predictability and confusing plot points.
While it could not reach the coolness level of 'Matrix', nor the heart of 'Fahrenheit 451', it was very enjoyable and highly recommended.
What I would change
Nothing.
2007
Premise
In a world where everyone takes a Prozac on steroids to suppress their emotions and need for violence, an elite killing squad is in charge of keeping the peace.
Who should watch
Those who wants to watch a cool, action flick with some brains.
Thoughts
This was a cool mix of 'Matrix' and 'Fahrenheit 451'. I enjoyed the social commentary about emotion versus control, love versus protection, humanity versus medication. The hybrid gun kung-fu action was fun. In a rare instance, the fighting with guns was actually graceful and fluid. Also, I liked the leads, including Christian Bale and the beautiful Emily Watson.
Christian Bale kicked butt, unfortunately, his unemotional character reminded me of Michael Keaton stuck in the Batman suit from the 1989 movie. Some minor flaws was the predictability and confusing plot points.
While it could not reach the coolness level of 'Matrix', nor the heart of 'Fahrenheit 451', it was very enjoyable and highly recommended.
What I would change
Nothing.
Eric Idle: Exploits Monty Python
Viewed in
2010
Formats
Standard Definition cable TV
Premise
A recording of Eric Idle's show in Washington D.C.
Loved
The performances.
Liked
The song selection.
Disliked
Abrupt transitions.
Thoughts
Better than expected.
It was a pretty cool compilation of well-known Monty Python songs, especially from "Monty Python Sings" album, plus, skits performed by Idle and some talented backup singers/performers. I enjoyed the new "Getty Song", which highlighted all the nudity in art. Pretty much the only song that was not used was "Knights of the Round Table".
Music can truly be a fountain of youth. Idle was about 60 when he toured, and it appeared that he sang and performed for nearly two hours like a 30 year old. The backup performers were very good at channeling their inner Pythons. And the female singers were as talented as they were attractive.
What bugged me was that it appeared to be heavily edited and chopped. While it's possible it was done on purpose, it was disconcerting that it would jump from song to song, abruptly intercut with Python animations or compilations. I think it was the standard definition that threw me off, as I could not tell if which footage was from the show or not.
I found it funny that the American audience hardly laughed. Actually, that's pretty much how we watch Monty Python.
As a fan, it was fun watching this celebration of Python music and skits. It was not as cool without the other living members there (save a recorded Terry Jones cameo), but it was full of silliness and a good stroll down memory lane.
What I would change
Slowed down the transitions between songs.
Random
The hottest backup dancer turned out to be Samantha Harris from "Dancing with the Stars". So turns out she was also talented and funny. It was weird seeing her with so much spunk and charisma, when I was used to watching her as a monotonic television host.
Lastly, I'm confused why Starz channel said this came out in 2009, when it occurred in 2002-2003.
2010
Formats
Standard Definition cable TV
Premise
A recording of Eric Idle's show in Washington D.C.
Loved
The performances.
Liked
The song selection.
Disliked
Abrupt transitions.
Thoughts
Better than expected.
It was a pretty cool compilation of well-known Monty Python songs, especially from "Monty Python Sings" album, plus, skits performed by Idle and some talented backup singers/performers. I enjoyed the new "Getty Song", which highlighted all the nudity in art. Pretty much the only song that was not used was "Knights of the Round Table".
Music can truly be a fountain of youth. Idle was about 60 when he toured, and it appeared that he sang and performed for nearly two hours like a 30 year old. The backup performers were very good at channeling their inner Pythons. And the female singers were as talented as they were attractive.
What bugged me was that it appeared to be heavily edited and chopped. While it's possible it was done on purpose, it was disconcerting that it would jump from song to song, abruptly intercut with Python animations or compilations. I think it was the standard definition that threw me off, as I could not tell if which footage was from the show or not.
I found it funny that the American audience hardly laughed. Actually, that's pretty much how we watch Monty Python.
As a fan, it was fun watching this celebration of Python music and skits. It was not as cool without the other living members there (save a recorded Terry Jones cameo), but it was full of silliness and a good stroll down memory lane.
What I would change
Slowed down the transitions between songs.
Random
The hottest backup dancer turned out to be Samantha Harris from "Dancing with the Stars". So turns out she was also talented and funny. It was weird seeing her with so much spunk and charisma, when I was used to watching her as a monotonic television host.
Lastly, I'm confused why Starz channel said this came out in 2009, when it occurred in 2002-2003.
Far From Heaven
Viewed in
2005
Premise
A 1950's couple begin to doubt their "American Dream".
Who should watch
Anyone in the mood for small, great cinema. Americans.
Thoughts
A difficult-to-pull-off film that was one of the best of 2002. Not only was the setting 1950's, but so was the film style. This style added great resonance for the socially conscious audience of today.
While the film tightroped between parody and tribute, it also explored various social issues: homosexuality, race, alcohol, violence, women's rights, therapy, the list goes on and on.
Think of this film as a dramatic, realistic, and superior version of 'Pleasantville'.
What I would change
Nothing.
2005
Premise
A 1950's couple begin to doubt their "American Dream".
Who should watch
Anyone in the mood for small, great cinema. Americans.
Thoughts
A difficult-to-pull-off film that was one of the best of 2002. Not only was the setting 1950's, but so was the film style. This style added great resonance for the socially conscious audience of today.
While the film tightroped between parody and tribute, it also explored various social issues: homosexuality, race, alcohol, violence, women's rights, therapy, the list goes on and on.
Think of this film as a dramatic, realistic, and superior version of 'Pleasantville'.
What I would change
Nothing.
Gangs of New York
Viewed in
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Leonardo DiCaprio stars as an Irish-American who seeks revenge on the brutal leader of 1800's New York, Bill the Butcher (Daniel Day-Lewis), who killed his father.
Liked
Strong performances, especially Day-Lewis.
Disliked
Slow pace, lack of heart.
Thoughts
Not one of Martin Scorsese's best.
The best parts were the acting. As expected DiCaprio and Day-Lewis were cool. However, in hindsight, we now realize that his Bill the Butcher wasn't much different than Daniel Plainview from There Will Be Blood. Having said that, his guttural screams rocked. Surrounding them were a plethora of quality performances from Liam Neeson, Brendan Gleeson, Gary Lewis, and Jim Broadbent. While John C. Reilly and Cameron Diaz didn't suck, their performances just paled compared to everyone else's game.
It definite was an interesting take on Civil War-era New York. I'm not familiar with that part of history, so I'm uncertain how much liberty Scorsese took with the story, but it felt like a lot. I enjoyed the menagerie of different cultures mashed together in a "hot furnace" of hate and violence as a contrast to our current level of racial civility in America.
When I watch a Scorsese film, I expect some crazy cool cinematography. And there was a really poignant elongated one-take of immigrants coming off the boat, only to be hustled onto boats Dixie-line bound, while coffins are unloaded simultaneously. However, as a whole I found it to be his least memorable movie, from a visual standpoint.
There were other flaws. Its sloth-like pace exacerbated by its lengthy runtime. I never found any of the characters likable enough to follow. Lastly, the climax was rather anti-climactic, as it got sideswiped by another event. I think he meant to have that event add fuel to the fire, but all it did was distract the audience from following the main plot.
Gangs of New York was a disappointment, given Scorsese's record. If you're a big fan of his, or of Day-Lewis, then it's probably worth a watch. If not, you're not missing out on much.
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Leonardo DiCaprio stars as an Irish-American who seeks revenge on the brutal leader of 1800's New York, Bill the Butcher (Daniel Day-Lewis), who killed his father.
Liked
Strong performances, especially Day-Lewis.
Disliked
Slow pace, lack of heart.
Thoughts
Not one of Martin Scorsese's best.
The best parts were the acting. As expected DiCaprio and Day-Lewis were cool. However, in hindsight, we now realize that his Bill the Butcher wasn't much different than Daniel Plainview from There Will Be Blood. Having said that, his guttural screams rocked. Surrounding them were a plethora of quality performances from Liam Neeson, Brendan Gleeson, Gary Lewis, and Jim Broadbent. While John C. Reilly and Cameron Diaz didn't suck, their performances just paled compared to everyone else's game.
It definite was an interesting take on Civil War-era New York. I'm not familiar with that part of history, so I'm uncertain how much liberty Scorsese took with the story, but it felt like a lot. I enjoyed the menagerie of different cultures mashed together in a "hot furnace" of hate and violence as a contrast to our current level of racial civility in America.
When I watch a Scorsese film, I expect some crazy cool cinematography. And there was a really poignant elongated one-take of immigrants coming off the boat, only to be hustled onto boats Dixie-line bound, while coffins are unloaded simultaneously. However, as a whole I found it to be his least memorable movie, from a visual standpoint.
There were other flaws. Its sloth-like pace exacerbated by its lengthy runtime. I never found any of the characters likable enough to follow. Lastly, the climax was rather anti-climactic, as it got sideswiped by another event. I think he meant to have that event add fuel to the fire, but all it did was distract the audience from following the main plot.
Gangs of New York was a disappointment, given Scorsese's record. If you're a big fan of his, or of Day-Lewis, then it's probably worth a watch. If not, you're not missing out on much.
The Good Girl
Viewed in
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Jennifer Aniston stars as a disenchanted small-town clerk who decides to cheat on her dopey husband (John C. Reilly) with a younger coworker (Jake Gyllenhaal).
Loved
Zooey Deschanel!
Liked
Black comedy, performances.
Thoughts
This was a fun little film.
Aniston was excellent as a flawed, unsatisfied, blue-collar wife. I remember this role was a big deal back then, since she was still Rachel of Friends. Watching it a decade later, it was still edgy and refreshing. Truly a pity she didn't take more chances like this, after all, her next best thing is, what, Horrible Bosses nine years later?
The rest of the cast was very good too. I enjoyed the game performances by youngish Gyllenhaal, big lug John C. Reilly, Tim Blake Nelson, and John Carroll Lynch. But not surprisingly, an undiscovered Zooey Deschanel stole the show as the adorably quirky girl.
The Good Girl was definitely a cool gem to watch for its strong acting and dark humor about adultery.
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Jennifer Aniston stars as a disenchanted small-town clerk who decides to cheat on her dopey husband (John C. Reilly) with a younger coworker (Jake Gyllenhaal).
Loved
Zooey Deschanel!
Liked
Black comedy, performances.
Thoughts
This was a fun little film.
Aniston was excellent as a flawed, unsatisfied, blue-collar wife. I remember this role was a big deal back then, since she was still Rachel of Friends. Watching it a decade later, it was still edgy and refreshing. Truly a pity she didn't take more chances like this, after all, her next best thing is, what, Horrible Bosses nine years later?
The rest of the cast was very good too. I enjoyed the game performances by youngish Gyllenhaal, big lug John C. Reilly, Tim Blake Nelson, and John Carroll Lynch. But not surprisingly, an undiscovered Zooey Deschanel stole the show as the adorably quirky girl.
The Good Girl was definitely a cool gem to watch for its strong acting and dark humor about adultery.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Viewed in
2002, 2003, 2005, 2011
Formats
Movie theater, DVD, Cable TV (w/ ads w/ deleted scenes)
Premise
In the second entry of the franchise, Hogwarts is besieged by mysterious attacks, and Harry hears voices in his head.
Thoughts
Early on, this was my least favorite film, but after I read the books and the big picture was revealed, it was more likable.
The kids were cute as a button and definitely getting into the swing of things. Jason Isaacs was deliciously disdainful as Malfoy's father. Kenneth Branagh delivered the comedy in spades. Also, the Dobby subplot became much more likable once I read the seventh book.
Like director Chris Columbus' first attempt, this too was on the slow side. The Quidditch and wizard classes were fun, but I'd look at the clock and realize it wasn't until halfway through when things finally started happening.
What I would change
Again, sped things up.
2002, 2003, 2005, 2011
Formats
Movie theater, DVD, Cable TV (w/ ads w/ deleted scenes)
Premise
In the second entry of the franchise, Hogwarts is besieged by mysterious attacks, and Harry hears voices in his head.
Thoughts
Early on, this was my least favorite film, but after I read the books and the big picture was revealed, it was more likable.
The kids were cute as a button and definitely getting into the swing of things. Jason Isaacs was deliciously disdainful as Malfoy's father. Kenneth Branagh delivered the comedy in spades. Also, the Dobby subplot became much more likable once I read the seventh book.
Like director Chris Columbus' first attempt, this too was on the slow side. The Quidditch and wizard classes were fun, but I'd look at the clock and realize it wasn't until halfway through when things finally started happening.
What I would change
Again, sped things up.
History of Violence, A
Viewed in
2003
Premise
A small town hero is confronted by the mob about his past.
Who should watch
Fans of Viggo Mortensen? Those who like good acting and aren't afraid of realistic violence.
Thoughts
Very well acted film. I just wished it dealt more about the emotional implications instead of having everything end violently. The director did not want to glorify violence, and based on the realistic gore, he succeeded.
What I would change
Had more emotional elements to the story.
2003
Premise
A small town hero is confronted by the mob about his past.
Who should watch
Fans of Viggo Mortensen? Those who like good acting and aren't afraid of realistic violence.
Thoughts
Very well acted film. I just wished it dealt more about the emotional implications instead of having everything end violently. The director did not want to glorify violence, and based on the realistic gore, he succeeded.
What I would change
Had more emotional elements to the story.
Infernal Affairs
Viewed in
2005
Premise
The mob sends a mole into the police force, while the police send an undercover agent into the mob.
Who should watch
Tony Leung and Andy Lau fans. Those who want to know where 'The Departed' originated from.
Thoughts
Very exciting and enjoyable film. The acting by Tony Leung and Andy Lau were well done. Like most double-agent movies, it was confusing at times. But I think that was the point, because everyone has a breaking point before fact and fiction blur. There was lots of close calls, plot twists, and nail-biting scenes of suspense. My favorite is the first time the mole and undercover cop talk to each other for the first time.
The story was so good 'The Departed' knew not to mess with the premise, plot twists or the ending. Unfortunately, this means depending on the order you saw the films, the second one will never be as satisfying as the first you saw. The main difference, other than the setting, was that 'The Departed' made room for some very funny minor characters and dialogue, while 'Infernal Affairs' kept it lean and mean.
Personally, I slightly liked this version better than the remake. But that might be because this came out first, and it had cool Asian actors.
What I would change
Nothing.
2005
Premise
The mob sends a mole into the police force, while the police send an undercover agent into the mob.
Who should watch
Tony Leung and Andy Lau fans. Those who want to know where 'The Departed' originated from.
Thoughts
Very exciting and enjoyable film. The acting by Tony Leung and Andy Lau were well done. Like most double-agent movies, it was confusing at times. But I think that was the point, because everyone has a breaking point before fact and fiction blur. There was lots of close calls, plot twists, and nail-biting scenes of suspense. My favorite is the first time the mole and undercover cop talk to each other for the first time.
The story was so good 'The Departed' knew not to mess with the premise, plot twists or the ending. Unfortunately, this means depending on the order you saw the films, the second one will never be as satisfying as the first you saw. The main difference, other than the setting, was that 'The Departed' made room for some very funny minor characters and dialogue, while 'Infernal Affairs' kept it lean and mean.
Personally, I slightly liked this version better than the remake. But that might be because this came out first, and it had cool Asian actors.
What I would change
Nothing.
Insomnia
Viewed in
2002
Premise
American remake of the 1997 Norwegian movie.
Who should watch
Fans of the cast?
Thoughts
I found this movie boring. Al Pacino went through the motions and Hilary Swank was underused. The best part was the setting and mood, in which the land was a presence. Probably too much of a presence.
I admired that Robin Williams was trying something different, but I am sure he will be infinitely creepier in 'One Hour Photo'.
What I would change
Not bothered remaking the movie.
2002
Premise
American remake of the 1997 Norwegian movie.
Who should watch
Fans of the cast?
Thoughts
I found this movie boring. Al Pacino went through the motions and Hilary Swank was underused. The best part was the setting and mood, in which the land was a presence. Probably too much of a presence.
I admired that Robin Williams was trying something different, but I am sure he will be infinitely creepier in 'One Hour Photo'.
What I would change
Not bothered remaking the movie.
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