shiftyeyeddog
http://www.flixster.com/user/shiftyeyeddog
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| Movie: | Isn't that what THIS LIST is for? <--click |
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| Actor: | That list is HERE<--click |
| Director: | David Fincher, Baz Luhrmann, Peter Berg, Joss Whedon, Christopher Nolan, Kevin Smith, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, Tony Scott, Doug Liman |
| Quote: | "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present" |
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Movies are my life. If I'm not watching a movie, I'm reading about them, writing about them, or talking about them. Even the vast majority of my music collection is movie scores and soundtracks.
My tastes are pretty eclectic, with films from every genre, and I enjoy mindless popcorn flicks just as much as deep, serious dramas. I never tire of a good movie discussion. That being said, a few notes: * I welcome friend requests IF they are genuine - and you should send a personalized talk message as well so I know it's for real. I don't even consider the kind of requests that are obviously just mass mailed. * I'm here to share a love of movies. I'm not here to flirt or even socialize unless it's movie-related. If that's what you're after, stick to MySpace. * If we have nothing in common at all, don't bother * If you have nothing on your profile - fave movies, actors, lists... what's the point? Come back to me when you've got something to share. * I don't want your spam, your widgets, or your advertisements. * If you find cool pictures, videos, quizzes, etc, that you want to share, bring 'em on! Just don't be obnoxious about it. This all sounds very negative, but I'm just trying to weed out the spam and find true interesting movie fans to share with. _____________________________________________________________________ My Rating System: I get really annoyed by people who just give 5 stars to anything they like and 1/2 star to anything they don't. The truth is, most movies lie very much somewhere in the middle. You'll see this reflected in my ratings: 5 Stars - a PERFECT film; I'm pretty stingy with these (as everyone should be) 4.5 Stars - A GREAT film, but not quite perfect 3.5 to 4 Stars - VERY GOOD 3 Stars - AVERAGE/GOOD 2.5 Stars - BELOW AVERAGE 1.5 to 2 Stars - BAD 1 Star - TERRIBLE 1/2 Star - The WORST OF THE WORST, with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Many get this rating from me ONLY because there is no "ZERO STARS" option. _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Click HERE for my LiveJournal. Feel free to visit and comment often. |
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Brian's Recent Reviews
The International
R
Marketed as some kind of action thriller, The International is really more of a slow conspiracy drama with one MAJOR action scene. Overall, an adequate but forgettable film, BUT... that one scene - a shoot-out in the Guggenheim - almost makes up for the rest of the fim's shortcomings. It is, in my opinion, one of the best shoot-outs in modern film, right up there with scenes from Heat, Open Range, and Way of the Gun (both the early kidnapping scene and the final conflict - seriously, see that movie!)
Fired Up
PG-13
Surprisingly entertaining. Don't write this off as a "cheerleader movie". It's actually more geared towards guys, and I laughed quite a bit. It's not art, nor does it pretend to be. It's just fun. The plot? Oh, it's totally predictable. The cast? No WAY are 90% of them high school students, but it's still fun. Eric Christian Olsen is a very funny guy who deserves to be getting more comedic roles.
The Hangover
R
The Hangover is essentially just Dude, Where's My Car meets Bachelor Party. So nothing terribly original, but definitely hilarious. While many are praising Zach Galifianakis (who was funny, but sometimes trying too hard), I found Ed Helms to be the funniest of the bunch.
Only two things really detracted from my enjoyment of this movie. 1) In an otherwise well-done comedy, a couple times the jokes were just huge duds (c'mon, that wedding singer? LAME.) and 2) The trailer: This is one of those movies where practically every funny moment in the film, you've already seen in the trailer. So upon seeing the movie, the jokes aren't as fresh or funny. But that isn't a criticism of the movie itself. Just another example of annoying movie marketing.
The Hangover is likely the best comedy we'll see this year.
Brian's Favorite Movies
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3.
Die Hard
R
Die Hard is the gold standard to which all other action films will forever be compared. A perfect film in virtually every aspect, from John McTiernan's direction, to Jan DeBont's cinematography, to Michael Kamen's score, to every actor's performance across the board: Bruce Willis, Bonnie Bedelia, William Atherton, Reginald Veljohnson, ...and especially Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber. This film was the turning point in modern action films - the moment when they moved from the unstoppable one-man army of Rambo, Commando, Predator, Cobra, etc, and introduced the more realistic everyman action hero - a normal guy forced to act in an extreme situation. Often imitated (to varying degrees of success) with the "Die Hard on a _____" formula, that only speaks to not only the quality of the film itself, but its impact on the genre. Bruce Willis' career skyrocketed after this, and while he's never quite made anything that's lived up to this first film, I have greatly enjoyed all the Die Hard sequels.
Brian's Movie Scrapbook
Brian's Talk
View All (19)
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I recommend you see...
Public Enemies
by Markposted 4 hours ago -
I recommend you see...
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
by Candy I was so looking forward to the next installment and it is great. Still a great cast. Good storyline and full of adventure. Autobots live and work alongside the US military to protect the humans But Megatron's dead body has been stolen from the US Military by Skorpinox and he revives him using his own spark. There starts another battle between good and evil against the backdrop of the pyramids. Excellent graphics and action.
Hey, you should really see this!
posted 1 day ago -
I recommend you see...
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
by KevinQuite simply one of the best Woody Allen films I have ever set my eyes on! Thats saying alot,the guy is a movie legend. I would rank this up there with Annie Hall,which is often regarded as his best film.
First off I love how the movie opens up. The scene in the resurtant when Javier Bardem's character suggests that Vicky( Rebecca Hall) and Christina( Scarlett Johanson) should fly to Spain with him and perhaps going site seeing and afterwords "make love" I love how he was so causal about the whole situation and how appualed Vicky was by the suggestion. At the same time Christa embrasses the opportunity. That scene says so much about all three characters and sets up the story perfectly. You can defentitly tell that Allen has complete control over this film.
From there on you see the relationship unfold. It has a very seductive feel to it. So incredibly sexy and provocative these scenes are.Spain was the damn near perfect place to set this film,it really does a great job and seduces the viewer,very effective! It plays this very thin line on relationships. Just how long can a relationship last? How do you know if its meant to be? Can love be free or must it be contained. These are some very important and controversial issues that the film adresses.
As for the performances,well one might say that Penelope Cruz steals the movie. And you know what I think she does,however I was surprised that she didnt come into the movie until the fifty minute mark. It was also nice to see Javier Bardem play a more sane character. He has so much range in this film,through his facial expression one could tell that he had seduced these young girls. Scarlett Johansson didnt wow in this film,probualy the weakest link. Rebecca Hall though,she was in her element. With this and Frost Nixon she has had quite the breakout year.
Overall you cant go wrong with this sophisticated love story. For all you guys out there who might not give this film a chance because its a " chick flick",well shame on you.
Juan Antonio: Maria Elena used to say that only unfulfilled love can be romantic.Check out this sophisticated love story,with jaw droping performances.
posted 3 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
by MarkSci-Fi actioner is a loud, chaotic mess, occasionally reaching sublime heights of ridiculousness. Confusing plot concerns evil Decepticon Transformers pursuing our hero Sam Witwicky for a shard of the "All Spark", while being protected by the good Autobot Transformers. One's enjoyment of the film will be inversely proportional to your demands for a sensible, well plotted film. Virtually every supporting character is such a crudely written caricature, it's laughable. Whether this humor is intentional, is unclear, but it is riotously funny at times, and that should count for something.
Whether the humor is intentional, is unclear, but it is riotously funny at times, and that should count for something. Right?
posted 4 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
by K JThis time around Michael Bay gives us plenty of explosions, average CGI and a decent plot buried beneath hot shots of Megan Fox and many sexual one liners. There is very, very little character development and the affection one felt for the autobots first time around is not built upon. Though the film is enjoyable and brings quite a few hilarious moments (dependent upon ones sense of humor), it lacks the emotional connection and 'cuteness' which was so audience friendly in the first one.
Unless you just want to see the 'bots' on the big screen, there's no other reason not to wait for the DVD....
posted 5 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Generation Kill
by K JThe best mini-series since Band of Brothers
Based upon the book written by embedded Rolling Stones reporter Evan Wright, Generation Kill follows !st Recon Marines during the first wave of the USA led assault on Iraq in 2003. The 7 episode series is awesome from beginning to end. The script, direction, action, cinematography and acting are flawless. The story is enlightening, entertaining and saddening. The manor in which the actors bring the Marines of 1st recon to life is heart wrenching. A must see film.....Hey, you should really see this! Film contains adult content, violence and foul language....
Caught all 7 episodes On Demand with HBO in my area. This is one I must own on Blu-ray.posted 6 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Stardust
by MarkAbsorbing fantasy about a young man in search of a fallen star he promises to bring back to win the heart of his true love. Jane Goldman & Matthew Vaughn's script is breathtaking in its ability to masterfully weave multiple storylines in creating an otherworldly universe that will delight, amuse and enchant.
Very much in the tradition of films like "The Princess Bride" and "Willow" comes this criminally overlooked fantasy that is an absolute delight.
posted 9 days ago -
I recommend you see...
The Proposal
by MarkCute romantic comedy about a she-devil of a book editor who blackmails her persecuted assistant into marriage in order to avoid being deported to Canada. You'll guess every plot point before it happens in this predictable story. However, Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds exhibit genuine chemistry and their romance is appealing enough to carry the film. Betty White steals every scene she's in as Grandma Annie.
Won't win any awards for originality, but Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds exhibit genuine chemistry and their romance is appealing enough to carry the film.
posted 13 days ago -
I recommend you see...
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
by MarkAstonishing performance from Maggie Smith highlights this somewhat stuffy character study about a forward thinking schoolteacher who refuses to follow the school's curriculum. Miss Jean Brodie's liberated views of love, politics and art are too much for a conservative girls' school in 1930s Scotland. Maggie Smith's tour de force performance deservedly won an Oscar for the title role, however actress Pamela Franklin is also memorable as Sandy, the student who becomes her biggest threat.
I could be the hundredth person to recommend "The Hangover" (which is indeed a hilariously good movie), OR I could champion an older film that you may not have seen.
What makes this film so extraordinary is Maggie Smith's performance. If not for her, I doubt I would have found this film so interesting. A character that is complex: deeply flawed and inspiring all at the same time.posted 15 days ago -
Hey - try this quiz and see how we compare
Name that cartoon characterposted 17 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Defiance
by K JAfter viewing Defiance, I found myself without any negative criticisms for the film. From beginning to end, this true tale of the Bielski brothers WWII adventures into the Blearussian forest is captivating and astonishing. The polished script, flawless cinematography and brilliant acting are just icing on the cake for this inspiring story of Jewish people who resisted the Nazi occupation.
Hey, you should really see this!
posted 19 days ago -
I recommend you see...
The Brothers Bloom
by MarkWhimsical crime comedy about a pair of con-men brothers who mastermind one last scheme to deceive an eccentric millionaire out of her money. Predictably, one of them falls in love with the attractive victim. Director Rian Johnson's follow-up to his stylish Brick, feels inspired by the films of Wes Anderson. It's just as charming, but a bit more artificial. Despite the convoluted and nonsensical story, the leads are charismatic and it is an enjoyable romp, overall.
Great ensemble cast in this whimsical crime comedy.
posted 20 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Bubble
by KevinSteven Soderbergh is quite the risk taker! He takes non-actors to play in this film. All 3 lead actors have never acted in a film before or since.With none of the actors having any prior experience, one would think that this movie would a disaster! Well I begg to differ,this film was flat out amazing! I mean the actors in the film impofized stories from thier real lifes into this. So yeah this is a character study more than anything. You can tell that the actors seemed nervous at the begging of the film. As the film progresses the dialogue becomes more interesting as well as the facial expressions,etc.
This is a character study and not a fast paced film by any means. If anyone knows my tatse in movies they know I aprriecate that in a film. Here is a movie that takes its time. Although we arent given much time,just over an hour in fact to know these characters. The story takes place in a doll factory in the Midwest. At first I was thinkg: WTF how can this movie work?? Not all of the movie takes place in the doll factory of course. Just the people that work there more or less. Rose,the new employee is joined by Martha and Kyle have to show her the ropes so to speak. I love the scenes between Rose and Martha,you can tell that Rose makes Martha uncombertable.Rose might come off as sweet as first,but it doesnt take long for anyone to notice that she is one demanding young woman. She takes advantage of the character Martha in the worst way.I assure in some scenes it looks like they could have gone into a cat fight.
The more this movie gets going the more intresting it becomes. The twist at the end makes the movie. Great character study from Soderbergh,he does a great job of making it all feel real.Which I of course loved. Loved every moment of this film, for its characters,its bold apporach,its twist and its demise of its characters! See this film!Hey, check out Soderbergh's gutsy film! One of the most surprising films I have witnessed!
posted 22 days ago -
I recommend you see...
The Dead Girl
by KevinWow what a film! This movie had my attention from start to finish. Flat-out memorizing performances from its cast! We get some of the cinemas most underrated actors,including the amazing Brittany Murphy,she was world class in this film. We also get Marica gay Harden,Toni Collette,Giovanni Rbisi ( a small but creepy,effective role) and James Franco. If you like movies that having intersecting characters well then you are in for a treat,rest assured.
The plot was simple but brillant for me. All the stories interwine when a young woman is found dead. Throughout the movie we find out just who this women was and some of the people who knew her in some fashion. Very interesting characters,they werent flat or boring at all which is a huge plus for me. I love character driven films and this ranks up there with the best that I have seen. Dead Girl is often creepy,the way its shot(mostly at night,the things the characters say,they way they move,everything was so damn brillant!
This movie spends about 10-15 mins on each story so you know the just of it. But that only leaves you wanting for find out more about the dead girl,how she died,who she was,etc. Never a moment when I said "come on enough already" I just kicked back and enjoyed this often creepy and intriguing film. My only complaint was that there should have been more Brittany Murphy(she plays the "dead girl") she made me want to hit the play button as soon as I got back to the main menu of my DVD player.This movie doesnt leave you,not a forgettable film by any means :)Hey, you should really see this intrguing thiller! If you like films that connects characters to tell a story then this ones for you :)
posted 27 days ago -
I recommend you see...
Nothing But the Truth
by DerekNothing But the Truth is an underrated, lesser-known 2008 political thriller that delivers on all levels. The story is based off true events and revolves around a reporter whose story blows a CIA's cover and the government's atrociously relentless pursuit of discovering her "source" whom the reporter refuses to reveal.
The story is gripping and powerful, filled with excellent performances. Kate Beckinsale doesn't usually impress outside of her looks, but here she does a film where she spends 90% of it with no makeup and she delivers one of the finest performances of her career! Alan Alda and the underrated Vera Farmiga were exceptional here as well.
It's amazing to me that extremely average political thrillers like State of Play had a tremendous amount of marketing and A-list actors only to deliver a mediocre movie... but yet a film like Nothing But the Truth falls through the cracks and turns out to be one of the finer films of the year.
This film is engaging from start to finish... I found myself emotionally attached to the poor reporter. It was an amazing, unforgettable story that was based off true events. Heartbreaking to say the least.... And the ending will absolutely floor you, I did not see that coming. Nothing But the Truth was a pleasant surprise that everyone should check out.
Out of 99 friends, only 3 have seen this. Lesser-known, hidden gem of 2008. It's a must see, I'm telling you....
posted 29 days ago -
Come see this movie with me...
Near Dark
by KyleThe second best vampire film ever made. Second only too Let the Right One in. It is Kathryn Bigelow's first mainstream film, who was once married to James Cameron. This and Strange Days are her two best films in my opinion. The lead is Adrian Pasdar of Heroes. It also stars Bill Paxton, Lance Henrickson, and Jenette Goldstein who are usuals in James Cameron pictures. Bill Paxton's best performance.
Please don't wait as long as I did to this gem. One of the best vampire movies ever.
posted 43 days ago -
Come see this movie with me...
Eden Log
by KyleThis movie is an intense experience. You literally feel like you are in a maze with the main character, the cinematography, very dim lighting and coloring, clostrophobic feel, and lack of dialog really make this film look and feel great. But alltogether it is not a great movie, it lacks a good story. If it had a better and more well thought-out story my rating would be even higher. This movie will not appeal to everyone, but if you are in the mood for something different give this a try. Watch the film in it's original French, not English.
Hey, you should really see this!
posted 45 days ago
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