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.
Showing posts with label dark comedy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dark comedy. Show all posts
Adaptation
Viewed in
2003
Formats
Movie theater
Premise
In Spike Jonze/Charlie Kaufman's sophomore endeavor, Nicolas Cage plays a lovelorn Charlie Kaufman (and twin brother) who's having trouble adapting a book based on a news article about orchids.
Thoughts
As a huge Kaufman fan, I recall loving this film. However, there was too much inside joke stuff about movie making and screenwriting that I seriously doubt regular audiences would understand the references and themes. The weirdness and mind-blowing creativity was off the charts, with imaginary twins, adaptations within adaptations, and blatant blurring of reality of Kaufman's career and life. Cage was perfect as the Kaufman brothers, and the rest of the cast was fantastic, especially Chris Cooper.
What I would change
Nothing.
2003
Formats
Movie theater
Premise
In Spike Jonze/Charlie Kaufman's sophomore endeavor, Nicolas Cage plays a lovelorn Charlie Kaufman (and twin brother) who's having trouble adapting a book based on a news article about orchids.
Thoughts
As a huge Kaufman fan, I recall loving this film. However, there was too much inside joke stuff about movie making and screenwriting that I seriously doubt regular audiences would understand the references and themes. The weirdness and mind-blowing creativity was off the charts, with imaginary twins, adaptations within adaptations, and blatant blurring of reality of Kaufman's career and life. Cage was perfect as the Kaufman brothers, and the rest of the cast was fantastic, especially Chris Cooper.
What I would change
Nothing.
American Psycho
Viewed in
2010
Premise
Christian Bale's breakout role as a 1980's American powerful businessman with murder as a hobby. Based on the controversial novel, which I have not read.
Loved
Bale's performance.
Liked
The dark comedy.
Disliked
Getting confused at the end.
Thoughts
I loved Bale's performance, but I cannot say the same for the whole movie.
Christian Bale made this film go. He was detached, pretentious, vain, misogynistic, narcissistic, jealous, hot-headed, and all sorts of nasty rolled into one. You would think such a protagonist would be hard to like. But Bale was somehow able to embody all that with delightful charm and a magnetic presence. Despite his lack of human decency, I could still relate to his frustrations in office politics or finding how he did not have the coolest business card.
Because of Bale's wonderful execution as this character, his killings were justified and fun, from an entertainment standpoint. Some were suspenseful, others were darkly humorous, but they were all interesting. While they were bloody, they were not graphic or gory.
Throughout the film, it reminded me of Fight Club, only bloodier and more satirical. It had a similar style of snarky voice over protagonist narration. Also, it had themes of hate for and rebelling against the materialistic, dehumanizing aspect of American society.
What ruined it for me was the last act. Things started to get confusing (like the lawyer scene) to the point of frustration, and I was not sure what the resolution was. Was there a consequence (and therefore a meaningful arc) for Patrick Bateman? I had to look online to double-check the plot afterward. Turns out it was intentionally ambiguous. Maybe because I was comparing it to Fight Club that I expected a more straight-forward ending. In any case, if it's going to be open-ended like that, it could have been executed better for me to realize that.
Even though I did not like how it ended, I appreciated the film for its risks, themes, entertaining murders, and most importantly, Christian Bale portrayal of such an inhuman (but entrancing) character.
What I would change
Find a way to let the audience realize the ending was meant to be interpreted.
2010
Premise
Christian Bale's breakout role as a 1980's American powerful businessman with murder as a hobby. Based on the controversial novel, which I have not read.
Loved
Bale's performance.
Liked
The dark comedy.
Disliked
Getting confused at the end.
Thoughts
I loved Bale's performance, but I cannot say the same for the whole movie.
Christian Bale made this film go. He was detached, pretentious, vain, misogynistic, narcissistic, jealous, hot-headed, and all sorts of nasty rolled into one. You would think such a protagonist would be hard to like. But Bale was somehow able to embody all that with delightful charm and a magnetic presence. Despite his lack of human decency, I could still relate to his frustrations in office politics or finding how he did not have the coolest business card.
Because of Bale's wonderful execution as this character, his killings were justified and fun, from an entertainment standpoint. Some were suspenseful, others were darkly humorous, but they were all interesting. While they were bloody, they were not graphic or gory.
Throughout the film, it reminded me of Fight Club, only bloodier and more satirical. It had a similar style of snarky voice over protagonist narration. Also, it had themes of hate for and rebelling against the materialistic, dehumanizing aspect of American society.
What ruined it for me was the last act. Things started to get confusing (like the lawyer scene) to the point of frustration, and I was not sure what the resolution was. Was there a consequence (and therefore a meaningful arc) for Patrick Bateman? I had to look online to double-check the plot afterward. Turns out it was intentionally ambiguous. Maybe because I was comparing it to Fight Club that I expected a more straight-forward ending. In any case, if it's going to be open-ended like that, it could have been executed better for me to realize that.
Even though I did not like how it ended, I appreciated the film for its risks, themes, entertaining murders, and most importantly, Christian Bale portrayal of such an inhuman (but entrancing) character.
What I would change
Find a way to let the audience realize the ending was meant to be interpreted.
Being John Malkovich
Viewed in
1999, 2001
Formats
Movie theater, DVD
Premise
John Cusack stars as a puppeteer who discovered a portal into John Malkovich's head. Written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Spike Jones.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall this was the first time falling in love with Kaufman's inspired writing. This film was like a giant creative punch in the face. It was absurd, unique, unusual, well-acted, darkly hilarious, and was truly inspiring for my inner screenwriter. Easily my favorite film of 1999.
What I would change
Nothing.
1999, 2001
Formats
Movie theater, DVD
Premise
John Cusack stars as a puppeteer who discovered a portal into John Malkovich's head. Written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Spike Jones.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall this was the first time falling in love with Kaufman's inspired writing. This film was like a giant creative punch in the face. It was absurd, unique, unusual, well-acted, darkly hilarious, and was truly inspiring for my inner screenwriter. Easily my favorite film of 1999.
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.
The Big Lebowski
Viewed in
1998, 1999, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Jeff Bridges stars in the Coen brothers classic about a stoner mistaken for another Lebowski.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall greatly enjoying this film, thanks to colorful characters and dialogue. There were tons of memorable moments, from John Turturro's entrance, John Goodman fighting nihilists, and my fav, the three-masterpiece when Steve Buscemi's character dies of a heart attack. Infinitely re-watchable.
What I would change
Nothing.
1998, 1999, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Jeff Bridges stars in the Coen brothers classic about a stoner mistaken for another Lebowski.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall greatly enjoying this film, thanks to colorful characters and dialogue. There were tons of memorable moments, from John Turturro's entrance, John Goodman fighting nihilists, and my fav, the three-masterpiece when Steve Buscemi's character dies of a heart attack. Infinitely re-watchable.
What I would change
Nothing.
Big Helium Dog
Viewed in
2005
Premise
Full length feature version of the short film.
Who should watch
View Askew fans. Those in the mood for something small, random, and undiscovered.
Thoughts
I do not remember much about it, but I recall laughing a lot. It was an offbeat, and well written comedy.
What I would change
Nothing.
2005
Premise
Full length feature version of the short film.
Who should watch
View Askew fans. Those in the mood for something small, random, and undiscovered.
Thoughts
I do not remember much about it, but I recall laughing a lot. It was an offbeat, and well written comedy.
What I would change
Nothing.
Borat
Viewed in
2006
Premise
Full-length feature based on the 'Da Ali G Show' character.
Who should watch
Fans of the show. People with a dark sense of humor. Anyone who wants to see something original.
Thoughts
This is the craziest and offensive film I've seen since the 'South Park' movie, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I rarely get offended, but even I squirmed sometimes. The reason is because real people were involved. Sometimes the filmmakers tried to make a fool out of an idiot, but that person's ignorance ended up being just too scary. What was also shocking was that even the audience was shouting some obscene stuff. I really hoped they were drunk or just kidding.
Major props to Sacha Baron Cohen for having the balls to have a fat, naked, hairy man sit on his face.
For any movie fan, this is a must see. It is the most unique film of the year, and should have been nominated for best picture.
What I would change
Nothing.
2006
Premise
Full-length feature based on the 'Da Ali G Show' character.
Who should watch
Fans of the show. People with a dark sense of humor. Anyone who wants to see something original.
Thoughts
This is the craziest and offensive film I've seen since the 'South Park' movie, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I rarely get offended, but even I squirmed sometimes. The reason is because real people were involved. Sometimes the filmmakers tried to make a fool out of an idiot, but that person's ignorance ended up being just too scary. What was also shocking was that even the audience was shouting some obscene stuff. I really hoped they were drunk or just kidding.
Major props to Sacha Baron Cohen for having the balls to have a fat, naked, hairy man sit on his face.
For any movie fan, this is a must see. It is the most unique film of the year, and should have been nominated for best picture.
What I would change
Nothing.
Brazil
Viewed in
2007, 2012
Premise
Terry Gilliam's dystopian epic of a clerk whose world is turned upside down.
Format
DVD, HDTV
Liked
Trippy visuals, comedic performances, satirical insight.
Disliked
Cheap ending.
Thoughts
As expected, it was crazy ass weird. Gilliam filled the movie with funky camera angles and trippy fantastic imagery. Big ups to whoever built those jaw-dropping set designs.
Underneath/despite the off-kilter visuals, there was substance to go with the style. I very much enjoyed the darkly comedic performances from Sir Ian Holm, Robert DeNiro, Bob Hoskins, Michael Palin, and the late great Graham Chapman. Jonathan Pryce was perfectly cast as the desperate loser lead.
In addition, the story has some really sharp/still relevant/spookily prophetic barbs about inhumane metropolis, advertising overflow, burgeoning bureaucracy, oversized vehicles, cosmetic surgery, our reliance on complicated gadgets. Unironically, it correctly predicted flat screen televisions.
Upon second viewing, I was disappointed in the last act. It came off as a cop out, a cheap excuse to flood the feature with bizarre eye candy. Or I've become too wary of such types of twists.
I used to think Brazil was Terry Gilliam's best. Now, I'm leaning towards Twelve Monkeys. Nevertheless, for film buffs, this was still a must-see. Though one time may be enough.
2007, 2012
Premise
Terry Gilliam's dystopian epic of a clerk whose world is turned upside down.
Format
DVD, HDTV
Liked
Trippy visuals, comedic performances, satirical insight.
Disliked
Cheap ending.
Thoughts
As expected, it was crazy ass weird. Gilliam filled the movie with funky camera angles and trippy fantastic imagery. Big ups to whoever built those jaw-dropping set designs.
Underneath/despite the off-kilter visuals, there was substance to go with the style. I very much enjoyed the darkly comedic performances from Sir Ian Holm, Robert DeNiro, Bob Hoskins, Michael Palin, and the late great Graham Chapman. Jonathan Pryce was perfectly cast as the desperate loser lead.
In addition, the story has some really sharp/still relevant/spookily prophetic barbs about inhumane metropolis, advertising overflow, burgeoning bureaucracy, oversized vehicles, cosmetic surgery, our reliance on complicated gadgets. Unironically, it correctly predicted flat screen televisions.
Upon second viewing, I was disappointed in the last act. It came off as a cop out, a cheap excuse to flood the feature with bizarre eye candy. Or I've become too wary of such types of twists.
I used to think Brazil was Terry Gilliam's best. Now, I'm leaning towards Twelve Monkeys. Nevertheless, for film buffs, this was still a must-see. Though one time may be enough.
Bruno
Viewed in
2009
Premise
In 'Borat' style, Sacha Baron Cohen is Bruno, hell-bent on becoming the most famous celebrity in the world.
Who should watch
Cohen fans.
Thoughts
Sacha Baron Cohen is one of the bravest artists I have ever seen. While I admired his courage, I was underwhelmed by this film.
As expected, I laughed a lot and squirmed a lot. My favorite part was when Bruno ventures into the Middle East in attempt to bring peace. In terms of crudeness, I think it may be a while until I won't have nightmares about a dancing penis that shouts 'Bruno!' at me.
There were many reasons for its lack of greatness. While there were some shocking moments, such as his attempt to get famous by trying to get kidnapped by terrorists, there were few 'holy $#*!' moments. I think we've become so jaded by the outrageous trash we see in reality television shows these days.
Another issue was the lack of a direction. In 'Borat', his character's goal was simple and you could tell it was approaching its climax. Here, it just meandered from one gag to another. Speaking of gagging, the last problem with the film was that it could only make gay jokes. There's only so much one could handle before getting bored. 'Borat' was great because it was able to explore a large variety of situations and themes, especially regarding American culture.
The reason why I keep making comparisons to 'Borat' is because it makes it easy to illustrate 'Bruno''s inferiority in this unique genre. If you only have the time (or the stomach) for one Sacha Baron Cohen film, I would recommend 'Borat' instead.
What I would change
No idea.
2009
Premise
In 'Borat' style, Sacha Baron Cohen is Bruno, hell-bent on becoming the most famous celebrity in the world.
Who should watch
Cohen fans.
Thoughts
Sacha Baron Cohen is one of the bravest artists I have ever seen. While I admired his courage, I was underwhelmed by this film.
As expected, I laughed a lot and squirmed a lot. My favorite part was when Bruno ventures into the Middle East in attempt to bring peace. In terms of crudeness, I think it may be a while until I won't have nightmares about a dancing penis that shouts 'Bruno!' at me.
There were many reasons for its lack of greatness. While there were some shocking moments, such as his attempt to get famous by trying to get kidnapped by terrorists, there were few 'holy $#*!' moments. I think we've become so jaded by the outrageous trash we see in reality television shows these days.
Another issue was the lack of a direction. In 'Borat', his character's goal was simple and you could tell it was approaching its climax. Here, it just meandered from one gag to another. Speaking of gagging, the last problem with the film was that it could only make gay jokes. There's only so much one could handle before getting bored. 'Borat' was great because it was able to explore a large variety of situations and themes, especially regarding American culture.
The reason why I keep making comparisons to 'Borat' is because it makes it easy to illustrate 'Bruno''s inferiority in this unique genre. If you only have the time (or the stomach) for one Sacha Baron Cohen film, I would recommend 'Borat' instead.
What I would change
No idea.
Clue
Viewed in
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
The movie adaptation of the board game.
Thoughts
I recall enjoying it a lot, thanks to silly performances by the cast, especially Tim Curry. Also, I remember liking the cool idea of different, multiple endings.
What I would change
No idea.
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
The movie adaptation of the board game.
Thoughts
I recall enjoying it a lot, thanks to silly performances by the cast, especially Tim Curry. Also, I remember liking the cool idea of different, multiple endings.
What I would change
No idea.
Cooler, The
Viewed in
2004
Premise
A cooler is someone who can spread bad luck to hot customers at casinos.
Who should watch
Fans of the cast, especially William H. Macy.
Thoughts
I liked the solid acting and likable characters, but the overall William H. Macy vibe reminded me too much of a superior small film called 'Panic'. Nevertheless, if you like him playing William H. Macy roles, you should like this.
There were two memorable scenes: one was a couple avenging their hotel neighbors by pretending to have wild and annoying sex, and the other was one was the fate of a corrupt cop.
What I would change
More original material.
2004
Premise
A cooler is someone who can spread bad luck to hot customers at casinos.
Who should watch
Fans of the cast, especially William H. Macy.
Thoughts
I liked the solid acting and likable characters, but the overall William H. Macy vibe reminded me too much of a superior small film called 'Panic'. Nevertheless, if you like him playing William H. Macy roles, you should like this.
There were two memorable scenes: one was a couple avenging their hotel neighbors by pretending to have wild and annoying sex, and the other was one was the fate of a corrupt cop.
What I would change
More original material.
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
Viewed in
1998, 2001
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Stanley Kubrick's political satire about a war room of leaders and military try to defuse nuclear holocaust.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall this being my favorite Kubrick masterpiece. Before there was Eddie Murphy starting the one actor-multiple character gimmick, there was the late great Peter Sellers in his triple roles of hilarity. Personally, the performance I loved the most was the late great George C. Scott as a military general.
What I would change
Nothing.
1998, 2001
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Stanley Kubrick's political satire about a war room of leaders and military try to defuse nuclear holocaust.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall this being my favorite Kubrick masterpiece. Before there was Eddie Murphy starting the one actor-multiple character gimmick, there was the late great Peter Sellers in his triple roles of hilarity. Personally, the performance I loved the most was the late great George C. Scott as a military general.
What I would change
Nothing.
Dogma
Viewed in
2000
Formats
DVD
Premise
A Kevin Smith film about an abortion clinic worker summoned to save humanity from two fallen angels looking to exploit a divine loophole.
Thoughts
What I recall was that I loved this film. There was funny dialogue, interesting satire, a cool cast, and Salma Hayek as a stripper. I think this was my favorite Kevin Smith film.
What I would change
No idea.
2000
Formats
DVD
Premise
A Kevin Smith film about an abortion clinic worker summoned to save humanity from two fallen angels looking to exploit a divine loophole.
Thoughts
What I recall was that I loved this film. There was funny dialogue, interesting satire, a cool cast, and Salma Hayek as a stripper. I think this was my favorite Kevin Smith film.
What I would change
No idea.
Ed Wood
Viewed in
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars as the worst director ever in Tim Burton's biography of Ed Wood.
Thoughts
It's been a while since I've seen it, but I recall this being Tim Burton's more complete, and best film. The story and characters were so fascinating. Burton captured the absurdity and quirky charm of Wood and movie-making in general. Depp and Martin Landau as Ed Wood and Bela Legosi gave memorable, haunting performances. I also enjoyed Howard Shore's theremin-heavy score.
What I would change
Nothing.
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars as the worst director ever in Tim Burton's biography of Ed Wood.
Thoughts
It's been a while since I've seen it, but I recall this being Tim Burton's more complete, and best film. The story and characters were so fascinating. Burton captured the absurdity and quirky charm of Wood and movie-making in general. Depp and Martin Landau as Ed Wood and Bela Legosi gave memorable, haunting performances. I also enjoyed Howard Shore's theremin-heavy score.
What I would change
Nothing.
Edward Scissorhands
Viewed in
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars in Tim Burton's tale of an earnest young man who has scissors for hands.
Loved
Danny Elfman's score.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall it being haunting, quirky, charming, and a little bit edgy. First time collaboration of Burton, Depp and Elfman, whom I've dubbed "The Unholy Trinity".
What I would change
No idea.
2001
Formats
DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars in Tim Burton's tale of an earnest young man who has scissors for hands.
Loved
Danny Elfman's score.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall it being haunting, quirky, charming, and a little bit edgy. First time collaboration of Burton, Depp and Elfman, whom I've dubbed "The Unholy Trinity".
What I would change
No idea.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Viewed in
2004, 2005, 2006
Premise
After a terrible breakup, a man decides to erase his memory of his ex. During the process, he changes his mind.
Who should watch
Charlie Kaufman fans. Those who want something trippy, emotional and inspiring.
Thoughts
To date, this was Charlie Kaufman's masterpiece. Like his other works, this was weird, original and utterly hilarious. The difference was that it also packed an emotional punch straight through the heart.
Words could not express how perfect the writing, dialogue, acting, music, special effects and pacing was. It was more than just a visual experience. The film was also truthful (and at times painful) exploration into memories, love, lost love, loneliness and relationships.
It may not feel like a love story, but it was one of the best in film history. This film would have deserved all the awards if a small film called 'Million Dollar Baby' did not stand in its way.
What I would change
Nothing.
2004, 2005, 2006
Premise
After a terrible breakup, a man decides to erase his memory of his ex. During the process, he changes his mind.
Who should watch
Charlie Kaufman fans. Those who want something trippy, emotional and inspiring.
Thoughts
To date, this was Charlie Kaufman's masterpiece. Like his other works, this was weird, original and utterly hilarious. The difference was that it also packed an emotional punch straight through the heart.
Words could not express how perfect the writing, dialogue, acting, music, special effects and pacing was. It was more than just a visual experience. The film was also truthful (and at times painful) exploration into memories, love, lost love, loneliness and relationships.
It may not feel like a love story, but it was one of the best in film history. This film would have deserved all the awards if a small film called 'Million Dollar Baby' did not stand in its way.
What I would change
Nothing.
Falling Down
Viewed in
2007
Premise
A divorced and unemployed man is having a really bad day in smoggy downtown Los Angeles.
Who should watch
Michael Douglas fans.
Thoughts
I know what it was trying to do, but without a likable main character, it was hard to like the movie.
In terms of dark comedy, there were a lot of great individual scenes that were either cool, funny and/or socially conscious. Despite this, the audience could not relate to the main character.
It was worth checking out.
What I would change
Made the main character more sympathetic instead of copping out with a 'he's disturbed' explanation.
2007
Premise
A divorced and unemployed man is having a really bad day in smoggy downtown Los Angeles.
Who should watch
Michael Douglas fans.
Thoughts
I know what it was trying to do, but without a likable main character, it was hard to like the movie.
In terms of dark comedy, there were a lot of great individual scenes that were either cool, funny and/or socially conscious. Despite this, the audience could not relate to the main character.
It was worth checking out.
What I would change
Made the main character more sympathetic instead of copping out with a 'he's disturbed' explanation.
Fargo
Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Frances McDormand stars as a pregnant police officer investigating a triple homicide near Fargo, North Dakota.
Loved
The accents, the acting, the wood chipper scene.
Thoughts
Very bloody and cute at same time. Weird, huh?
The acting was fantastic all around, although I am not sure if McDormand was truly the lead, as she did not appear until a third in, and meanwhile Steve Buscemi seemed to have more screen time as one of the killers. Both performances were incredibly funny and memorable, for very different reasons. I loved the dichotomy of all this bloodshed and terror, and this adorable pregnant lady waddling around with that adorable accent. Kudos to Buscemi, who him and his character went through a lot of physical pain to tell the story. William H. Macy was not likable but fascinating as the "mastermind".
Another interesting aspect was that it felt like a really toned down Coen brothers film. The dialogue was more realistic and less decorated, and the Roger Deakins' cinematography was very to the point with minimal flair. I thought those were good choices, so the style would not usurp the performances. And there was nothing needed to be added when it came to that hilariously awesome wood chipper scene.
As much as I loved the acting, it felt like more of an actor's film than a complete film. The story was not as interesting as other Coen brothers films, partly because I kind of already knew the ending and the antagonists were not much of a threat as they kept stepping on their own toes. Lastly, the subplot with old classmate didn't seem to fit at all.
One of the Coen brothers' defining moments, thanks to great performances and that darn accent.
What I would change
Taken out the classmate subplot.
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Frances McDormand stars as a pregnant police officer investigating a triple homicide near Fargo, North Dakota.
Loved
The accents, the acting, the wood chipper scene.
Thoughts
Very bloody and cute at same time. Weird, huh?
The acting was fantastic all around, although I am not sure if McDormand was truly the lead, as she did not appear until a third in, and meanwhile Steve Buscemi seemed to have more screen time as one of the killers. Both performances were incredibly funny and memorable, for very different reasons. I loved the dichotomy of all this bloodshed and terror, and this adorable pregnant lady waddling around with that adorable accent. Kudos to Buscemi, who him and his character went through a lot of physical pain to tell the story. William H. Macy was not likable but fascinating as the "mastermind".
Another interesting aspect was that it felt like a really toned down Coen brothers film. The dialogue was more realistic and less decorated, and the Roger Deakins' cinematography was very to the point with minimal flair. I thought those were good choices, so the style would not usurp the performances. And there was nothing needed to be added when it came to that hilariously awesome wood chipper scene.
As much as I loved the acting, it felt like more of an actor's film than a complete film. The story was not as interesting as other Coen brothers films, partly because I kind of already knew the ending and the antagonists were not much of a threat as they kept stepping on their own toes. Lastly, the subplot with old classmate didn't seem to fit at all.
One of the Coen brothers' defining moments, thanks to great performances and that darn accent.
What I would change
Taken out the classmate subplot.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Viewed in
1999, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars in Hunter S. Thompson's novel about a journalist and his lawyer friend's psychedelic trip through Las Vegas.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I remember it being very trippy yet entertaining. Terry Gilliam was the perfect director to helm the meandering, visually dizzying style. I enjoyed Depp's performance, as well as Benicio del Toro and Christina Ricci. As fun as the acid trip was, I never could figure out what the purpose of the story was. Seemed more like an excuse for drugged-out visuals and wacky performances than anything deeper.
What I would change
No idea.
1999, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Johnny Depp stars in Hunter S. Thompson's novel about a journalist and his lawyer friend's psychedelic trip through Las Vegas.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I remember it being very trippy yet entertaining. Terry Gilliam was the perfect director to helm the meandering, visually dizzying style. I enjoyed Depp's performance, as well as Benicio del Toro and Christina Ricci. As fun as the acid trip was, I never could figure out what the purpose of the story was. Seemed more like an excuse for drugged-out visuals and wacky performances than anything deeper.
What I would change
No idea.
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