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Avatar - PG-13
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An astonishing display of the finest special effects in movie history to date. The imagery is literally jaw-dropping with gorgeous scenery and mind-blowing set pieces. Where Cameron scores major points is in the visuals and action sequences. The IMAX 3-D experience is beyond any comparison. A perfect blending of sci-fi, action, and character. The story is the one element that prevents a five star rating. It's not that the story and theme are bad - they're not. It's just that it's all rather obvious. After all, Cameron is not one for subtlety. Take Pocahontas, throw in some modern concepts, and wrap it all up in ancient folklore. It may be very straight-forward and thematically cliched but it's impossible to ignore the remarkable achievement that Avatar is. Its heart is in the right place and both young and old can get emotionally involved in its storyline. In the end, Cameron's passion for his new universe is so clearly felt in every frame. There's just so much love permeating at every moment. Even if it's lacking complexity, it makes up for it with a true passion for motion pictures.
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December 22, 2009
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N/A
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Inglourious Basterds - R
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I'm the last person to rave about Tarantino but I have to admit, as the final line of the movie states, I believe it's his masterpiece. What stands out the most is how it doesn't feel like your typical Tarantino film. It's highly sophisticated with 75% of the film subtitled. It's also not as trashy as one might expect. The dialogue is top-notch. Thankfully, Quentin resists his usual self-indulgence and instead the characters emerge as truly fascinating individuals. The villain is particularly intriguing. In fact, there are a number of scenes that work brilliantly on their own. This film could almost work as a stage play. It's also remarkable how Quentin sustains the tension throughout. This is not exactly a stand up and cheer for the Americans movie. In fact, they often come across us neanderthals while the Europeans are far more sophisticated. The shot that perfectly sums up Tarantino's entire career is the bird's eye view shot of the dying couple in the projection booth. Sentimentality and the love of cinema is juxtaposed with death and brutality. In the end, it may just be entertainment but clearly Quentin knows how to grab our attention and not let go.
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December 21, 2009
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N/A
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Bei qing cheng shi (A City of Sadness) - Unrated
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The film that introduced Taiwanese cinema to the world. Hugely politically controversial without ever losing sight of the characters and their universal problems. The story unfolds in an impressionistic way, revealing bit by bit the complexities of a family developing during the 40s. You may find yourself confused at times, but the everyday moments captured, are without artifice and completely honest. Silence and stillness are juxtaposed with violence and sudden action. The framing is without fault and HHH clearly established himself as a accomplished filmmaker with extreme confidence.
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December 21, 2009
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N/A
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Kramer vs. Kramer - PG
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Divorce comes to Hollywood. Hoffman and Streep have rarely been better and the story is simple, yet affecting. The appeal in the TV movie trend began here. It's remarkable how timeless Benton makes this film. It was extremely smart to keep things minimal. The writing also went through dozens of revisions and it clearly shows - there's hardly an ounce of bullshit in this beautiful and emotionally moving film.
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December 18, 2009
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N/A
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Down by Law - R
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Hands down, Jarmusch's funniest film. Memorable characters are thrown into absurd situations. Tom Waits rocks my world. In typical fashion, there is very little plot, instead we get extended moments where characters are never sure what to say to each other. How does Jarmusch make it all so entertaining? It helps when you have Muller as cinematographer.
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December 13, 2009
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N/A
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The Red Shoes - R
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The always inventive Powell & Pressburger's greatest achievement. Glorious photography and passionate storytelling with a remarkable ballet sequence that still astonishes. The age-old dilemma of art versus love life has rarely been explored with such elegance and exuberance. The script is also surprisingly modern and expertly written. By blending both the art of cinema and dance, the Archers re-invent cinema and make a hybrid of two elaborate art forms. They never followed the rules and that's what makes their films last. Stellar performances also help this flawless film touch me on a profoundly deep level.
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December 12, 2009
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N/A
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Fallen Angels - Unrated
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Quintessential Wong Kar-wai. Kinetic, touching and visually imaginative. The film takes an expressionistic approach and through romantic details we get a major sense of longing and heartache. We don't see the light of day until the final moments. This is where the yearning for an unattainable love seems to be finally overcome. What makes me love this film with such passion is simply the characters (in particular the father and son subplot) and the remarkable cinematic flair with which Kar-wai weaves his tale of multiple lost loves.
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December 7, 2009
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N/A
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Peeping Tom - Unrated
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This disturbing character study destroyed Powell's career. It was way ahead of its time and makes a great companion piece to Hitchcock's films. In fact, cinematically speaking it's extremely sophisticated. Powell knew what he was doing and the film clearly took some big risks (especially in the UK). I also love both the leads - it's hard to take your eyes off them (no pun intended). The musical score, although startling, fits the scatterbrained quality of the protagonist. In the end, this forgotten gem is one of the first true cult classics.
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December 5, 2009
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N/A
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Kagemusha (Shadow Warrior) (The Double) - PG
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The epic pre-cursor to Ran. Astonishing, complex and a flawed main character grounds this eye-popping period piece.
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December 5, 2009
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N/A
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Ordinary People - R
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Redford's directorial debut is surprisingly insightful and moving in an understated sort of way. Not surprisingly, the acting is first-rate. The ending is remarkably brave. Still, years later, Ordinary People doesn't quite hold the same punch as it use to. It feels very much like a TV movie and some of the emotional moments are a bit contrived. Beating Raging Bull at the Oscars is a travesty. Historically speaking though, along with Kramer vs Kramer, this film helped usher in the small-scale dramatic films that would dominate 80s adult movie-making.
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December 5, 2009
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N/A
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Secrets & Lies - R
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Emotionally devastating. Mike Leigh's understanding of human nature is staggering. The long takes elevate this unflinchingly honest film to heights of pure genius. The outdoor dinner shot is a prime example of totally riveting filmmaking. Unlike a Hollywood melodrama, there are so few close-ups. Leigh leaves it completely up to us regarding where to look. In classic Cassavetes fashion, Leigh expects us to be as creative with our own eye. It's all in the details. Deceivingly banal glances are loaded with subtext and offhand comments are rife with dramatic tension. Naturally, the performances are first-rate across the board. This is real life, delivered to the screen with humility, respect and compassion.
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December 5, 2009
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N/A
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Happy Together - Unrated
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The greatest film dealing with gay lovers. Universal, heartbreaking and funny. Instead of relying heavily on plot, Kar-wai gives us a series of simple, honest, and painful moments that ring true and create a mosaic of what it's like getting over a destructive relationship. What's wonderfully fresh about this film is how the gay relationship is totally not the point. Anyone who has ever loved and lost and then tried to move on, can totally relate to this film. Certain shots say so much with just a little punctuation and music. The subtext is constantly there, always treating the viewer with utmost respect. It goes without saying that the cinematography is astonishing. Godard's influence is felt and the overall emotional feeling the movie leaves you with, is one of complete and utter acceptance, ironic wisdom, and blissful hope. Perfect cathartic filmmaking.
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November 16, 2009
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N/A
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Monty Python's And Now for Something Completely Different - PG
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Growing up, Monty Python was an essential part of my teenage upbringing. Wacky, absurd, rude and hysterical. These guys were simply geniuses. From the Twit of the Year contest, to the Lumberjack song and the "Cars that Ate People" (as well as a big Cat) this series of collections from the stellar TV show made an indelible impression on me. That said, years later as an adult, the film doesn't carry the same magic. It's still wildly original but the humor is a little juvenile or perhaps just expected. I loved them growing up. Today they no longer hold the same charm for me.
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November 16, 2009
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N/A
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Mad Max - R
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This cult classic has a certain quality to it due to the fact the The Road Warrior is such a great film. The lesser-seen predecessor may not be as epic or sci-fi-ish but it is the archetypal revenge story. Countlessly imitated with stellar car chase sequences, Gibson became a star with this B movie that paved the way for an entire post-apocalyptic genre. It's a film style in the making. That said, the actual movie is pretty poor with ridiculous sound design. Don't expect genius, instead just recognize the first steps of a genre evolving.
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November 16, 2009
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N/A
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The Thin Red Line - R
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A Zen masterpiece on war. Malik has returned with such profound perspective and insight. The viewer gets three movies in one. First, it's a riveting story with elements of suspense and intense action revolving around "seizing a bunker." Second, there's such a collection of strong actors and characters that linger with you long after the film is over. The unconventional narration helps identify emotionally with each soldier. Third, Malick takes us on an odyssey for the ages that is both meditative, spiritual and aesthetically beautiful. From man to nature to animals, we are constantly reminded of beauty and horror co-existing. After my fifth viewing, the film still feels fresher that most everything else in recent memory. Ultimately, this is a strong contender for the greatest war film ever made.
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November 15, 2009
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N/A
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The Big Lebowski - R
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Is there another film like The Big Lebowski? The Coens continue their "war on cliche's" with this zaniest of screwball comedies. Think Preston Sturges on acid. Did you know that Schrader voted it one of the top 40 films of all time? In typical Coens fashion, there's a layer of subtext relating to The Dude as a Christ-like figure. No joke! His unconditional love of even the most idiotic friends, is admirable. Even the narrator says he's somewhat of a savior. After all, this film has inspired a pseudo-religion in real life. In the end, what makes Big Lebowski so appealing, is how it continues to get better with each viewing. Like a dear good friend, the more you get to know them, the fonder you become.
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November 7, 2009
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N/A
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Michael Jackson's This Is It - PG
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The real treat to watching this documentary is hearing Michael Jackon direct his dancers and crew. He's incredibly polite while being specific and a perfectionist. It comes to no surprise how incredibly musical he is. Every note ricochets through him like an energy charge. His voice is impeccable. The only shame is knowing that he's holding back due to the rehearsals. Still, it's a joy to watch a master talent attempt to create such an ambitious and awe-inspiring event. The dancers are also emotionally moving to watch and listen to. There's so much love permeating throughout this film: for art, music, dance, the fans, the planet, and of course, for Michael. (Be sure to wait until after the credits roll. There's a nice little treat, that illustrates MJ's humility.) There's much to say about the entire phenomenon that is MJ. 'This Is It' leaves you both wanting more, while also appreciating such God-given talent. It's both sad, yet beautiful. Long live Michael Jackson.
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November 7, 2009
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N/A
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A Serious Man - R
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The Coens knock another one out of the park. Ten times funnier than Burn after Reading, Serious Man is unsettling and ambiguous. The ending left me speechless (as did the prologue). This is the kind of film that leaves you with plenty of intriguing memories that make you just want to watch the film again. So in the end, what's it all about? Larry's constant attempts at being a "serious" man is his cross to bear. We all try and keep the wolf at the door. However, the sin that he commits in the end brings about Armageddon. It's all rather brilliant. In typical Coens fashion, we're never sure whether they are sincere in their profound allegory, or perhaps they're just messing with us. Also, like Fargo, the most instantly memorable supporting character is a borderline stereotypical Asian man. Strange, yet genius.
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November 7, 2009
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N/A
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Astro Boy (AstroBoy) - PG
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A visually amazing experience can't make up for the lackluster story. Despite being a hugely influential anime (some say the original) this film can't help but feel as if it's taking one too many short cuts. The dialogue is weak and the characters aren't fully developed. Still, the concept is quite brilliant and certain plot points are very adult. Clearly, Kubrick was a fan of Astro Boy when he developed A.I. Right down to the Flesh Fair/Gladiator sequence, there are many similarities. In the end, it's a shame they didn't give the script one more re-write before they started animated the remarkable action set pieces. (Great score though!)
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November 7, 2009
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N/A
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Toy Story 2 - G
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More complex than the original, Toy Story 2 is a miracle of character development and high-octane energy. A roller-coaster ride for the entire family. I can not get over how incredible the writing is. The insane level of progressive complications doesn't let up. The Toy Story films are both so damn good it's ridiculous. Flawless entertainment.
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October 18, 2009
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N/A
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Dreams (Akira Kurosawa's Dreams) (Yume) - PG
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Kurosawa's most visually striking film. Eight hypnotic and eloquent short segments. Spielberg presented this film in Europe, while Lucas' ILM company did the effects and finally, who wouldn't want to see Scorsese playing Van Gogh? It's the pacing and experiment in time that makes one experience this film in a particular fashion. Like staring at a painting for an extended period of time, we are slowly drawn into each dream world. Beautifully captivating.
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October 18, 2009
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N/A
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Star Trek - Nemesis - PG-13
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The final installment with the Next Generation crew may just be the best of the four. I feel that some audiences were unnecessarily harsh with this extremely thoughtful and dark entry. John Logan's script is smart and detailed. The visuals are easily the best of the Next Generation films - finally, it doesn't just look like one big TV show. The effects are remarkable and best of all, the action quota is through the roof. This is where some Trekkie fans may object the most. It's easily the most action-packed Trek film since '79 and perhaps this is not what Star Trek is supposed to be about (the entire final 30 minutes is one giant action set piece). Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the progressive complications. Plus, it's not as if the story is shallow. The characterizations are quite complex. Lastly, it's also wonderful to have Goldsmith back doing some stellar work.
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October 18, 2009
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N/A
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Jabberwocky - PG
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October 15, 2009
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N/A
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Superman/Batman: Public Enemies - PG-13
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October 10, 2009
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N/A
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Halloween - Resurrection - R
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Why did they have to bring him back? The first 15 minutes of this film makes a mockery of the previous chapter (which was infinitely better). The sad truth to this God awful film is that there isn't a single scary moment and Michael Myers is just going through the motions. There isn't even any good death scenes. Painfully unbelievable and all around stupid. And what's with the lame cast?
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October 10, 2009
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N/A
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1358 ratings
1178 reviews
