Chet's Talk

Breakfast at Tiffany's

A radiant Audrey Hepburn highlights this adaptation of the Truman Capote novella about a carefree woman who cannot commit to anyone or anything. She can't even bring herself to name her cat. Indeed it is a tribute to Audrey Hepburn's talent that she can make this shallow, chain smoking, shoplifting, gold digging drunk, so utterly charming. There is real vulnerability here. Nevertheless, this light, frothy flight of fancy is extremely overrated and awfully dated (Mickey Rooney's exaggerated performance is an embarrassment). However, the vividly eccentric characters and the luxurious style of it all, is captivating.

Disney's A Christmas Carol

Gorgeous adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic is a 3D feast for the eyes. This slavishly faithful interpretation, is highlighted by effects so extraordinary, there are moments where it literally looks as if snow is falling in the theater. As recounted here, the story really takes its time and exhibits a dark moodiness, especially in the early scenes. In other parts, there are nightmarish images that are rather jolting for a PG rated film. Consequently, the film will please adults much more than it will entertain young children. However, for those that are patient, this atmospheric version of the classic tale is an enjoyable holiday treat.

9

This animation is about a group of 9 fabric characters who are the last survivors on earth. The earth has been destroyed by machines that have taken over the world and they are killing everything in sight. Number 9, the last of the fabric characters convinces the others to destroy the machines rather than live in fear and hiding. Good animation. Quite dark, not suitable for young children.

Freaks

Landmark cult film about the relationship between a long legged trapeze artist named Cleopatra and Hans, the dwarf she marries. Uncategorizable film is creepy and disturbing, but also touching and sweet. What makes this film so unique is director Tod Browning's controversial step in casting real people with deformities as the so-called sideshow "freaks," rather than using costumes and makeup. However it is these performers that come off as trusting and honorable, while two of the "normal" members of the circus are portrayed as the real monsters. Although certainly one of the most unusual films ever produced by a major Hollywood studio, the message of sympathy and acceptance is admirable. The well publicized revulsion with which audiences originally greeted this film seems unjustified. A fascinating movie that remains a curious oddity.

Michael Jackson's This Is It

Concert film documenting Michael Jackson's rehearsals for the concert series which was to take place at the O2 Arena in London. We see the preparation of what clearly would have been an extraordinary show, but unfortunately a show that never materialized. Without the dazzle of the full concert spectacle or even the up close and personal portrait of the superstar himself, the documentary is rather unsatisfying. It is ironic that the one glimpse who do get of Michael Jackson, the man, is how much of a perfectionist he was. That being said, it is doubtful he would have wanted this practice session released. He never fully commits to any song performance. At one point, he even apologizes for his singing because he is "saving" his voice. The film would have been a nice DVD extra to a collection of his videos, but as a feature length film, it is lacking. Michael Jackson deserved better.

Generation Kill (mini-series)

The 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.....

The Brothers Bloom

Whimsical 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.

Nothing But the Truth

Nothing 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.

Just Buried

This movie slipped under the radar for a lot of people in 2008. It didn't make it to a lot of theaters and was most likely ignored by the general public due to the two leads not being particularly famous.
The story is a clever one; a darker "Dead Like Me" or "Pushing Daises" story starring two of my favorite actors: Jay Baruchel (You might remember him in Tropic Thunder, one of the best parts of that movie) and Rose Byrne whom I freaking adore in everything she's done.
Not an unpredictable movie by any means, its still got a lot of wit and charm for a movie that basis around death and murder.
Yes, its pretty dark and it doesn't really care. So if you don't like gore than stay the hell away.
But if dark comedy is your thing, then check this out.
Superb acting, intriguing direction and all around wit made it one of those movies I wish more people would give a shot.
Luckily, the DVD comes out February 17th and that should bring more access to people that missed it.