The reason I clumped these films together is because they both star cutie-patootie Shia LaBeouf and they were both pretty much average films. Transformers was slightly better though. So both these films are about Shia's character getting into mischief, and then talking himself out of it, that crazy rascal. He plays a typical teen boy, obsessed with video games, attractive lady companions, and talking his parents off. Both films pair Shia with a gorgeous, thin, yet curvy love interest. These "tight hotties" are doing so much for my self-esteem :s...the films both end with Shia macking on his lady... ah shit, I totally spoiled it for everyone!
In terms of narrative both films are pretty weak, but you can't expect much from major hollywood vehicles. Disturbia was pegged as a Hichcock Rear Window knock-off; yeah, the story has the same skeleton, but really the efforts are not where near comparison, puh-leeze. Transformers is a what-you-see-what-you-get, which means a 15 year old wrote the scripts, but I won't deride it for that reason, because they never pretended to be more than an summer blockbuster.
In the way that supporting actors go, the films had some credibility. Carrie-Anne Moss played a never-there mom very well, but Transformers took the cake with John Turturro playing the bad-cop turned good-cop, he totally made the slow "story" scenes enjoyable to watch.
In the end I recommend Transformers for a good popcorn flick, but Disturbia is pretty weak, so no go there.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Feist - December 3, 2007 - Hamilton Place
This show was great, I really enjoyed it. It was my second time seeing Feist live so I came in with some expectations, Feist met those expectations, but for different reasons. The first time I saw Feist it was at the Folk Festival in Ottawa, we were outdoors, it was rainy and cold, and dark. All things said it was also a great show because Feist is awesome live. I was standing right against the bars, so I had one of the best spots essentially, and it was a pretty cheap ticket to get in.
Last night the show was indoors, it was seated, and I was on the first balcony so not as close as I'd like. Feist definitely brought her lady funk which was great, she chatted a bit with the audience, and did a fair mix of her older stuff along with most tunes from her new cd. She did a 3 song encore which I thought was more than generous due to lack of audience participation, but it seemed like it was part of the set regardless of how the audience reacted. Opening band Great Lake Swimmers were great also. Their songs were so soothing that I felt like curling up and napping it was so relaxing.
What I find interesting about Feist, and what got me wanting to write this post is that even with only 3 CD releases to her name her music is evolving in such an organic way. Her first CD, which most people have not even heard of "Monarch (Lay Down Your Jewelled Head)" has an unpolished feel to it. I can't claim much expertise to this album because I've only listened to it maybe one and a half times, but it's definitely neat to listen to to get a grasp of Feist's roots. "Let it Die" is the album that introduced most people to Feist, including myself. The CD is awesome, and by far one of my favourites. It has a disco era feel to it that really makes it a swayable album to listen to. Most of the tunes are down tempo, but she uses awesome classical instruments with electrofusion it's definitely candy for your ears.
The latest CD, "The Remainder" took some time for me to warm up to. The sound is a lot more professional than "Let it Die", and also more accessible to audiences. I originally saw this as Feist selling out because it was only after her song "1234" was used for iPod, that she became popular in the states. But eventually I have come to enjoy this CD also because it still evokes the classic Feist style and rhythm.
Last night the show was indoors, it was seated, and I was on the first balcony so not as close as I'd like. Feist definitely brought her lady funk which was great, she chatted a bit with the audience, and did a fair mix of her older stuff along with most tunes from her new cd. She did a 3 song encore which I thought was more than generous due to lack of audience participation, but it seemed like it was part of the set regardless of how the audience reacted. Opening band Great Lake Swimmers were great also. Their songs were so soothing that I felt like curling up and napping it was so relaxing.
What I find interesting about Feist, and what got me wanting to write this post is that even with only 3 CD releases to her name her music is evolving in such an organic way. Her first CD, which most people have not even heard of "Monarch (Lay Down Your Jewelled Head)" has an unpolished feel to it. I can't claim much expertise to this album because I've only listened to it maybe one and a half times, but it's definitely neat to listen to to get a grasp of Feist's roots. "Let it Die" is the album that introduced most people to Feist, including myself. The CD is awesome, and by far one of my favourites. It has a disco era feel to it that really makes it a swayable album to listen to. Most of the tunes are down tempo, but she uses awesome classical instruments with electrofusion it's definitely candy for your ears.
The latest CD, "The Remainder" took some time for me to warm up to. The sound is a lot more professional than "Let it Die", and also more accessible to audiences. I originally saw this as Feist selling out because it was only after her song "1234" was used for iPod, that she became popular in the states. But eventually I have come to enjoy this CD also because it still evokes the classic Feist style and rhythm.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)
It's been a few years since I last watched this film, and it still really impressed me. It's one of those films that you feel you learn something new about the characters and also about yourself with each viewing. I'm always torn whether to categorize the film as optimistic or pessimistic because the characters go through such drama, but in the end the vulnerable characters end up better off than the stubborn/obnoxious characters.
Sex, Lies, and Videotape is visually low-budget, which I would say is it's only main weakness. Errors in continuity and poor audio-dubbing can be distracting, but because of the strong story and characters, don't seem to cause too much of a blip for people who don't notice them.
James Spader and Peter Gallagher are so sexy and natural in these roles, they were really cast well. Their characters really remind me of guys I personally know, which keeps me coming back to watch this film.
In the end I recommend this film for anyone who has had a bad relationship in their life, and feel like it's destroyed them emotionally. Not to sound too bleak, but this film really gives insight as to how people feel after they have been betrayed by the person they have loved more than anyone else in their life. In my opinion the film is still kind of open in the ending, making you not sure as to what will happen to the main characters, it's definitely more realistic than 99% of Hollywood movies made today.
Sex, Lies, and Videotape is visually low-budget, which I would say is it's only main weakness. Errors in continuity and poor audio-dubbing can be distracting, but because of the strong story and characters, don't seem to cause too much of a blip for people who don't notice them.
James Spader and Peter Gallagher are so sexy and natural in these roles, they were really cast well. Their characters really remind me of guys I personally know, which keeps me coming back to watch this film.
In the end I recommend this film for anyone who has had a bad relationship in their life, and feel like it's destroyed them emotionally. Not to sound too bleak, but this film really gives insight as to how people feel after they have been betrayed by the person they have loved more than anyone else in their life. In my opinion the film is still kind of open in the ending, making you not sure as to what will happen to the main characters, it's definitely more realistic than 99% of Hollywood movies made today.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Freaky Friday (1976)
This is the kind of film that only children can enjoy, literally. The last time I watched this film I was around 8 years old, so I thought it was the wittiest things I'd ever seen. Watching it now, it's pretty drab. For anyone not familiar with this film's premise, a mother and daughter who are fed up with each other simultaneously declare they would rather be the other person, and then at the blink of an eye, the daughter is in the mother's body, and the mother is in the daughter's body.
This film, all of that aside, was very casted. Jodie Foster plays a very convincing mother, for someone in their early teens, and Barbara Harris is hilarious as the mom turned young teen. Harris is definitely more entertaining to watch because she pulls off slapstick comedy like no other. Watching her try to put on fake eyelashes is so funny, you really believe she has no idea how to be an adult. Of course supporting roles too are great. John Astin, legendary Gomez Addams from the original Addams Family pulls is weight.
Overall this movie is only worth watching if you remember seeing this as a child, and you feel nostalgic, besides that it's just like eating a cream-filled donut, only feels like a sweet idea before you start eating it.
This film, all of that aside, was very casted. Jodie Foster plays a very convincing mother, for someone in their early teens, and Barbara Harris is hilarious as the mom turned young teen. Harris is definitely more entertaining to watch because she pulls off slapstick comedy like no other. Watching her try to put on fake eyelashes is so funny, you really believe she has no idea how to be an adult. Of course supporting roles too are great. John Astin, legendary Gomez Addams from the original Addams Family pulls is weight.
Overall this movie is only worth watching if you remember seeing this as a child, and you feel nostalgic, besides that it's just like eating a cream-filled donut, only feels like a sweet idea before you start eating it.
The Lives of Others (2006)
This was a very good film. It takes place in 1984 East Germany and illustrates how it's citizens how no privacy from State Security. The story is of one of the spy's who lives a lonely life, one day has a change of heart and does not record the rebellious activities of the artist he is spying on. The spy starts to agree with the artist's political convictions, and even goes so far as to help the artist's girlfriend return to him.
There are very strong voyeuristic elements in this film, which makes it very interesting to watch. You can't help but feel empathy toward the lonely spy because he everyone wants to feel as if their presence in other people's lives are making a positive impact. The lonely spy is in the position where he can allow something to happen that can change a nation, and he doesn't hesitate for a moment.
I was very moved by this film and recommend it to everyone to see because it's such a truthful tale of human actions. This film won best foreign-language film at the Oscar's this past year, which it very much deserved.
There are very strong voyeuristic elements in this film, which makes it very interesting to watch. You can't help but feel empathy toward the lonely spy because he everyone wants to feel as if their presence in other people's lives are making a positive impact. The lonely spy is in the position where he can allow something to happen that can change a nation, and he doesn't hesitate for a moment.
I was very moved by this film and recommend it to everyone to see because it's such a truthful tale of human actions. This film won best foreign-language film at the Oscar's this past year, which it very much deserved.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
The River (1951)
I found this film to be very unique. It takes place in India and describes Indian philosophy and way of life through a British family that lives on an estate. The story is of two sisters, one in her twenties, and the other in her teens who fight over a young man who is a family friend and comes to stay awhile on the estate. It gets pretty "Mean Girls" between them because the young man is friendly toward both girls, so neither of them back away. The film ends just as a tragedy is ending, so it kind of a toss between a sad and happy ending.
What I liked about this film is the philosophy about life and families that is intertwined in the plot. I had an interest to see this film because Wes Anderson said that The River is the film that most inspired his new film The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and me being a big Wes Anderson fan (and giant film geek), I had to watch this soon.
This film was also the first colour film Jean Renoir made. Renoir being a very reputable French director really wanted to make a different film that his current oeuvre. I think this film, while having a very different stage than his other films, is very similar in theme to his other films.
Overall this film is pretty good, but not amazing. I think one would enjoy this film if they're looking for a film that takes them to a part of the world they've never been to (unless they've been to India). It's something to watch when you want to kick back, relax, and reflect on life.
What I liked about this film is the philosophy about life and families that is intertwined in the plot. I had an interest to see this film because Wes Anderson said that The River is the film that most inspired his new film The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and me being a big Wes Anderson fan (and giant film geek), I had to watch this soon.
This film was also the first colour film Jean Renoir made. Renoir being a very reputable French director really wanted to make a different film that his current oeuvre. I think this film, while having a very different stage than his other films, is very similar in theme to his other films.
Overall this film is pretty good, but not amazing. I think one would enjoy this film if they're looking for a film that takes them to a part of the world they've never been to (unless they've been to India). It's something to watch when you want to kick back, relax, and reflect on life.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Shortbus (2006)
This movie was pretty magical, I really enjoyed it. Shortbus is about sex and trust in relationships. A number of different story lines, dealing with similar, but unique relationships. The relationships are weaved together giving the film a bigger picture on how people act with their mates. I felt this film was very honest in it's portrayal. John Cameron Mitchell is amazing as the writer and director of this film. Anyone who has seen Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) would definitely enjoy this film. To capture NYC as a whole, Mitchell uses an amazing art piece of the city as a stand-in and then zigzags over it's skyline to segue between different scenes. The performances were also very good. I thought it was cool seeing Sook-Yin Lee, former MuchMusic VJ acting it up.
Overall the film had a mid tempo tone to it. I felt neither depressed, or delighted after the film, but rather balanced about it's outlook on relationships. Mitchell showed both sides of the coin, so that you know that relationships are an imperfect thing.
Overall the film had a mid tempo tone to it. I felt neither depressed, or delighted after the film, but rather balanced about it's outlook on relationships. Mitchell showed both sides of the coin, so that you know that relationships are an imperfect thing.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
This movie was pretty decent. It was your typical corporate scandal documentary, not that I'm an expert on this genre, but I've seen my share of "greedy-corporate-bastard" vs. "Poor-defenseless-public". The movie is all about exposing how Enron mislead the world about their accounts. I thought it was pretty interesting the different ways that Enron got away with all so much fraud, before a righteous whistle blower came out.
The format of the film is pretty standard for this genre. Opening of "wow, we can't believe they got away with all that", to some impressive investigative reporting on their business methods, to "gee, they all new the illusion wouldn't last forever". I watched this film for the content more than anything. Enron was a huge story a few years ago, but this doc is definitely still topical in today's criticism of corporate worlds. What I find interesting is the portrayal of the executives as human beings, as opposed to seeing them as soulless talking heads. They all knew they were cheating so many people out of their life's savings, but for some reason they just wouldn't come clean. I don't think it's something everyone has the capacity of doing, but it's wild when those who do, take it so far.
I think this movie is worth watching if you're looking for a doc on a corporate expose. The film is definitely content over style, so kind of educational.
The format of the film is pretty standard for this genre. Opening of "wow, we can't believe they got away with all that", to some impressive investigative reporting on their business methods, to "gee, they all new the illusion wouldn't last forever". I watched this film for the content more than anything. Enron was a huge story a few years ago, but this doc is definitely still topical in today's criticism of corporate worlds. What I find interesting is the portrayal of the executives as human beings, as opposed to seeing them as soulless talking heads. They all knew they were cheating so many people out of their life's savings, but for some reason they just wouldn't come clean. I don't think it's something everyone has the capacity of doing, but it's wild when those who do, take it so far.
I think this movie is worth watching if you're looking for a doc on a corporate expose. The film is definitely content over style, so kind of educational.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Away From Her (2006)
Wow! This film was nothing short of amazing and fantastic. I came into watching this film thinking it'll be too much on the art-house/pretentious side for me to enjoy it, but boy was I wrong. This film was incredible for it's script, direction, and acting; all forces seemed to be just right.
Before I just continue singing words of praise for this film let me mention it's premise. A couple in their golden years are dealing with the wife having Alzheimer's. She decides it's best for the both of them if she stays in an institution where they treat people with the same disease.
The movie is about to continuing tension that goes on between the couple as the disease deteriorates her memory. I don't want to ruin anything else because it's such a tragic story. It's the kind of film you feel sad watching but also inspired in the way that you don't want to waste your life with trivial pursuits.
Before I just continue singing words of praise for this film let me mention it's premise. A couple in their golden years are dealing with the wife having Alzheimer's. She decides it's best for the both of them if she stays in an institution where they treat people with the same disease.
The movie is about to continuing tension that goes on between the couple as the disease deteriorates her memory. I don't want to ruin anything else because it's such a tragic story. It's the kind of film you feel sad watching but also inspired in the way that you don't want to waste your life with trivial pursuits.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Hot Fuzz (2007)
This movie was alright. It's a British buddy-cop satire, with intentionally hilarious gore. What made this film only alright was that it just feels like a follow up to zombie satire "Shaun of the Dead" that is made by the same ensemble; the only major difference is the setting. Not to saying that duplicating the tone was bad, this movie was consistently funny. The crazy deaths that go on throughout the film are awesome.
The actors' performances were also alright, they were what you would expect if you've seen Shaun of the Dead. The ending was also pretty blah and hollywoodesque.
In the end it's one of the best popcorn movies I've seen lately, I recommend it for some silly fun!
The actors' performances were also alright, they were what you would expect if you've seen Shaun of the Dead. The ending was also pretty blah and hollywoodesque.
In the end it's one of the best popcorn movies I've seen lately, I recommend it for some silly fun!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Mysterious Skin (2004)
This film was actually a lot lighter than I thought it would be. Sure, there's tons of gay porn, and child molestation, but the way Gregg Araki delivered the subject matter in this film is totally more mainstream than his three earlier films that I have watched in class. I feel like this film is the breaking point between cult status and mainstream (on the art-house level) recognition. The cast is full of fully known actors. Joseph Gordan-Levitt (from 3rd Rock from the Sun, and 10 Things I hate about you), Michelle Trachtenburg (from Harriet The Spy), and Elisabeth Shue (from mostly 80s teen melodramas).
The film had a strong message about how kids are very impressionable when they are little so you gotta watch out who they're hanging out with after baseball practice. It's not the kind of film I recommend watching on a Sunday afternoon to kick back after a long week, you gotta be ready for some heavy drama, but the strange part is it didn't feel disturbing to watch all these things. The way Araki presents all this emotional baggage is in the way to show how everyone feels they go through drama in their life, it's very accessible.
I recommend this film if you're looking for something kind of deep, and maybe soul-wrenching. The performance by Joseph Gordan-Levitt is also pretty good.
The film had a strong message about how kids are very impressionable when they are little so you gotta watch out who they're hanging out with after baseball practice. It's not the kind of film I recommend watching on a Sunday afternoon to kick back after a long week, you gotta be ready for some heavy drama, but the strange part is it didn't feel disturbing to watch all these things. The way Araki presents all this emotional baggage is in the way to show how everyone feels they go through drama in their life, it's very accessible.
I recommend this film if you're looking for something kind of deep, and maybe soul-wrenching. The performance by Joseph Gordan-Levitt is also pretty good.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Repulsion (1965)
This was a pretty subtle and disturbing films I've seen. I don't think I would have known what was going on, unless I read the back. The story is of a young manicurist who is completely repulsed by sex. The first half of the film involved her being pursued by a seemingly nice man, who wants to take her to dinner, awkward nights where she has to overhear her sister having sex, and extended moments of daydreaming at work.
Catherine Deneuve plays the young protagonist, and she's probably the ideal actress for the film, quiet, seemingly pretentious, but an actual flake.
There is hardly any action that actually goes on in the film, it's more about the suspense and psychological effect that everything is having on her. The cinematography is good, and the black and white is good at deepening to dark feel the film has.
On an satirical note, this film has a message saying don't fall for the blonde girl, she'll only lead you on, and then slit your throat, ha.
Overall it was decent, it wasn't really my thing, but I found it interesting to watch.
Catherine Deneuve plays the young protagonist, and she's probably the ideal actress for the film, quiet, seemingly pretentious, but an actual flake.
There is hardly any action that actually goes on in the film, it's more about the suspense and psychological effect that everything is having on her. The cinematography is good, and the black and white is good at deepening to dark feel the film has.
On an satirical note, this film has a message saying don't fall for the blonde girl, she'll only lead you on, and then slit your throat, ha.
Overall it was decent, it wasn't really my thing, but I found it interesting to watch.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Toronto International Film Festival '07 - Part II
L'Age des Tenebres
This was another film I felt was very good. It was so dark and yet so comedic at the same time. I was never sure it cry or laugh at what was going on, on screen.
The protagonist is a man who does not like his job, his wife and kids ignore him because they are preoccupied with technological distractions that they have around them. This is a film I knew I would like months before I saw it. Deny Arcand the director is extraordinarily skilled at balancing mainstream accessible films with artful poetic substance. I was surprised at the lifestyle the protagonist chose in the end of the film. I don't want to ruin any of it, it felt really idealistic, but something that wouldn't be feasible for everyone to do.
Smiley Face
Hands down the most entertaining film I saw during the festival. It's a stoner comedy with a female protagonist, which makes it stand out because most stoner films have men in the leading roles. Anna Faris is amazing in this film, I don't think anyone else could have done this role the way she did it. The supporting cast also brought in strong performances, Adam Brody, and Jim from The Office, both very funny playing different stereotypes than what audiences are used to seeing them in. The physical comedy and wacky mannerisms that she pulls off are very impressive. I really want to own this film one day, not to say that it was the best film at the festival for me, but just that it's one of those films that you know you can watch a bunch of times and not be bored with it. What really made the movie special as well was the script. The movie would randomly branch off into economic theory or marxism propoganda in very hilarious circumstances.
I'm Not There
This was probably the only movie that I had high expectations for, but then was surprisingly disappointed. Another musician's biopic, I'm Not There takes an experimental look at the life and apparently different personas of Bob Dylan. I was not aware of what happened in Bob Dylan's life going into the film, nor do I know anything about it now, but the way it was presented I was definitely confused whether what was being depicted were true events or a fabricated story. The film has 6 different actors play Bob Dylan at different points of his life, which sounds all interesting and everything. But what threw me off is that in addition to this the film did not go in any kind of chronological order. It was definitely interesting to see, but I just didn't dig the direction.
Chacun Son Cinema
This was one of this film's that you have to see at a film festival, because it's dedicated to people who love and are changed by film. The film was comprised of shorts; each directed by a uniquely recongized international director. There were many 20 films all together, each having a special outlook on how people treat film watching, their emotional ties to it, and what they feel when they are at a movie house. One of my favourites was the Roman Polanski film. In the film a couple is watching a porographic film in a seemingly empty theatre. They all of a sudden hear a man moaning in one of the last rows before the balcony. His moaning is disturbing them because from their perspective the man is fondling himself. The couple get the theatre manager to talk to him. When the theatre manager asks him why he's sitting in the main area when he has a balcony seat, the man responds that he fell. Trust me, it was a lot smoother watching it unfold on screen.
La Fille Coupee En Deux
This was another very nice film, it was about a love triangle. I really liked the direction by Claude Chambrol. He does film with a subtle thriller angle. I didn't see the thriller aspect coming up, until something very sudden and drastic happens. The girl in the love triangle is played by the girl who's in Swimming Pool, another popular recent French film. She is torn between an older and a younger man. Both men hate each other and fight for her attention. I liked how the film ended very unpredictably, I didn't see it coming, so it was really entertaining.
The Visitor
This was a charming film that I enjoyed watching. I chose to see this film because the director also did The Station Agent, which I also enjoyed, and The Visitor has many of the same qualities. The Visitor has a slow, but steady pace. The story is very interesting, along with character development, so it kept my attention. It's the story of an aging college professor who's unmotivated about his life, until he stumbles upon a par of house squatters who are staying at his mostly unused apartment. He takes a liking to the couple, and he forms a quick bond with them, mostly with the guy. But suddenly things that a turn for the worst and the professor sees himself going to the furtherest length to help his new found friends. It's a great story about trust, loyalty, and the simply pleasures in companionship, I recommend it.
L'Amour Cache
This was the second film that I walked out of half way through. I originally was interested in seeing it because one of my favourite french actress' Isabelle Huppert was the star. Unfortunately the film, in my opinion didn't end up having much to offer me. The story was of a mother who despises her daughter and never wanted to have her in the first place. The daughter also seems very uncomfortable around her mother. The film is about the mother trying to overcome this disgust, so it was a pretty highly emotional film. What didn't work for me was that every other shot the boom mic would drift into the top of the film, it was totally unprofessional, and completely distracting in my film watching experience. Seeing the mic took away any believability this film had for me. In addition to this the story felt really piecemeal, but that could have been because I was really distracted to begin with. I had no problem walking out of the film, might as well.
Nothing Is Private
I really enjoyed this film. My expectations were pretty high going into the film, and it wasn't completely what I was expecting, but I was definitely impressed. The acting, direction, soundtrack, story, and morals were all very strong in this film. The story is of a young arab-american girl who repeatedly is misunderstood by her parents and the people around her. She's portrayed as the victim in the film, most likely of her environment. She keeps being put into compromising situations by people who try to force her to do things she's unsure she wants to do. It also takes place during the gulf war of the early 90s, so American politics is one of the forefront themes of the film. It is a highly emotional film, with some good dark comedy moments.
This was another film I felt was very good. It was so dark and yet so comedic at the same time. I was never sure it cry or laugh at what was going on, on screen.
The protagonist is a man who does not like his job, his wife and kids ignore him because they are preoccupied with technological distractions that they have around them. This is a film I knew I would like months before I saw it. Deny Arcand the director is extraordinarily skilled at balancing mainstream accessible films with artful poetic substance. I was surprised at the lifestyle the protagonist chose in the end of the film. I don't want to ruin any of it, it felt really idealistic, but something that wouldn't be feasible for everyone to do.
Smiley Face
Hands down the most entertaining film I saw during the festival. It's a stoner comedy with a female protagonist, which makes it stand out because most stoner films have men in the leading roles. Anna Faris is amazing in this film, I don't think anyone else could have done this role the way she did it. The supporting cast also brought in strong performances, Adam Brody, and Jim from The Office, both very funny playing different stereotypes than what audiences are used to seeing them in. The physical comedy and wacky mannerisms that she pulls off are very impressive. I really want to own this film one day, not to say that it was the best film at the festival for me, but just that it's one of those films that you know you can watch a bunch of times and not be bored with it. What really made the movie special as well was the script. The movie would randomly branch off into economic theory or marxism propoganda in very hilarious circumstances.
I'm Not There
This was probably the only movie that I had high expectations for, but then was surprisingly disappointed. Another musician's biopic, I'm Not There takes an experimental look at the life and apparently different personas of Bob Dylan. I was not aware of what happened in Bob Dylan's life going into the film, nor do I know anything about it now, but the way it was presented I was definitely confused whether what was being depicted were true events or a fabricated story. The film has 6 different actors play Bob Dylan at different points of his life, which sounds all interesting and everything. But what threw me off is that in addition to this the film did not go in any kind of chronological order. It was definitely interesting to see, but I just didn't dig the direction.
Chacun Son Cinema
This was one of this film's that you have to see at a film festival, because it's dedicated to people who love and are changed by film. The film was comprised of shorts; each directed by a uniquely recongized international director. There were many 20 films all together, each having a special outlook on how people treat film watching, their emotional ties to it, and what they feel when they are at a movie house. One of my favourites was the Roman Polanski film. In the film a couple is watching a porographic film in a seemingly empty theatre. They all of a sudden hear a man moaning in one of the last rows before the balcony. His moaning is disturbing them because from their perspective the man is fondling himself. The couple get the theatre manager to talk to him. When the theatre manager asks him why he's sitting in the main area when he has a balcony seat, the man responds that he fell. Trust me, it was a lot smoother watching it unfold on screen.
La Fille Coupee En Deux
This was another very nice film, it was about a love triangle. I really liked the direction by Claude Chambrol. He does film with a subtle thriller angle. I didn't see the thriller aspect coming up, until something very sudden and drastic happens. The girl in the love triangle is played by the girl who's in Swimming Pool, another popular recent French film. She is torn between an older and a younger man. Both men hate each other and fight for her attention. I liked how the film ended very unpredictably, I didn't see it coming, so it was really entertaining.
The Visitor
This was a charming film that I enjoyed watching. I chose to see this film because the director also did The Station Agent, which I also enjoyed, and The Visitor has many of the same qualities. The Visitor has a slow, but steady pace. The story is very interesting, along with character development, so it kept my attention. It's the story of an aging college professor who's unmotivated about his life, until he stumbles upon a par of house squatters who are staying at his mostly unused apartment. He takes a liking to the couple, and he forms a quick bond with them, mostly with the guy. But suddenly things that a turn for the worst and the professor sees himself going to the furtherest length to help his new found friends. It's a great story about trust, loyalty, and the simply pleasures in companionship, I recommend it.
L'Amour Cache
This was the second film that I walked out of half way through. I originally was interested in seeing it because one of my favourite french actress' Isabelle Huppert was the star. Unfortunately the film, in my opinion didn't end up having much to offer me. The story was of a mother who despises her daughter and never wanted to have her in the first place. The daughter also seems very uncomfortable around her mother. The film is about the mother trying to overcome this disgust, so it was a pretty highly emotional film. What didn't work for me was that every other shot the boom mic would drift into the top of the film, it was totally unprofessional, and completely distracting in my film watching experience. Seeing the mic took away any believability this film had for me. In addition to this the story felt really piecemeal, but that could have been because I was really distracted to begin with. I had no problem walking out of the film, might as well.
Nothing Is Private
I really enjoyed this film. My expectations were pretty high going into the film, and it wasn't completely what I was expecting, but I was definitely impressed. The acting, direction, soundtrack, story, and morals were all very strong in this film. The story is of a young arab-american girl who repeatedly is misunderstood by her parents and the people around her. She's portrayed as the victim in the film, most likely of her environment. She keeps being put into compromising situations by people who try to force her to do things she's unsure she wants to do. It also takes place during the gulf war of the early 90s, so American politics is one of the forefront themes of the film. It is a highly emotional film, with some good dark comedy moments.
Toronto International Film Festival '07 - Part I
Just recently I had the pleasure of working and viewing many different films at the Toronto International Film Festival. It was a great experience, one that I'll probably remember (at least the highlights) for a long time. I decided it would be a good idea to reflect on the films I watched. I put them in chronological order of when I saw them because it would take too much time to decide which film I liked best.
Young People Fucking
This was one of my favourite's of the festival hands down. It's a story about how sex is anything but casual regardless of the situation between consenting parties. It was an endearing story, that was also hilarious. It's definitely worth seeing more than once. Most of the stories leave on an upnote because the couples are able to resolve the drama and comes about when they are fooling around.
Control
This was also a good film. It's a bio-pic of the singer/songwriter Ian Curtis for Joy Division. Performances were spectacular, and the story was very tragic. I enjoyed the black and white cinematography in the film, I feel it gave it a more legendary feel to the story. The film also made me really want to listen to Joy Divison, I need to add some to my ipod soon. The only weakness for me in this film was that the perspective was partial to Debbie Curtis, his wife, so in the end it made her look like the victim in Ian's death, which seems too subjective to be fair.
Le Deuxieme Souffle
This was one of the weaker films I saw at the festival. It was a 2.5 hour french gangster film. For one that's too long for me to enjoy, two, I don't care much for that genre, the french part was just ok. The film had a really slow pace, it seemed to be about a retiring hitman, who gets dragged into one last job, but then things take a turn for the worst. I was kind of just waiting for the hitman to die, signally the film's end, but he seemed to survive a lot, including slitting his wrists/cracking his head open at the same time.
Chaotic Ana
This was definitely an interesting film. I can't completely decide what I thought about it because it was such a strong piece, with some innovative story/cinematic techniques. The story is very detailed, so it's hard to summarize in a few words without not doing it justice. The main idea is that they discover that she had all these past lives where each time she was tragically killed when she was 22. The present character in the film is 21, which is only one layer of the story as a whole. It's the kind of film that feels like you're peeling an onion to get to the center.
Trumbo
I picked this film at the last minute because I didn't want to see the film I had a ticket for at the same time. It was a documentary about a man who was blacklisted as a communist during the dark times of the 50s. The man clearly had an interesting life, and there were parts of the doc that I thought were great, but most of the film ended up being famous present day actors dictating old letters written by Trumbo during his heyday. This was a neat technique at first, but half the movie consisted of this, so half way through the film it really felt like a one-trick-pony. Mediocre film overall
Breakfast with Scot
This was such a cute film, I really enjoyed watching it. It's the story of a gay male couple who take in the son of one of their sister's because she had recently died. The nephew has a very effeminate matter which results in the couple thinking he needs to tone down his flair. The homosexuality theme is a major part of the film, but it does it in such an accessible, good-nature way, that one never feels uncomfortable with the subject matter, regardless of their feelings about homosexuality. It was the most mainstream feeling film that I saw, but it being a low-budget Canadian feature I doubt it'll get much distribution. The performances in this light-humoured film were also very good, especially the young boy playing Scot.
The Sun Also Rises
This was the least interesting film for me during the festival. It's a lyrical portrayal of different characters who live in the chinese countryside. The characters weren't connected, to my knowledge, and I ended up walking out halfway through because I felt like I was wasting my time and I was exhausted from a long day.
Bill
This was one of my favourite films at the festival. Aaron Eckarts plays a man who hates his cheating wife, hates his job, and aspires to own a donut franchise. Bill is a light-hearted dark comedy (if those two tones can be put side-by-side) with some playful slapstick. I think this film will get medium distribution because of the star-power, but it still has an indie feel, so it won't be huge either.
Blood Brothers
Another film I would have rather skipped. It was also a gangster film, but this time it was in chinese, so I couldn't even enjoy the language alone. It was at least only 97 minutes long, so I wasn't dying for air. I found the plot weak, because it felt like they didn't explain why and how they because gangsters, but also maybe I zoned out because I knew I wasn't into it from the get go.
Short Cuts Canada Programme 3
I decided that I wanted to give short films a chance because I don't see many, and I was modestly surprised. The first 3 films were pretty artsy, and felt pointless in my opinion, I think I just can't get into lyrical films, I need a point, dammit. But the shorts got better as they came along; they must have put them in order of quality. One of the good ones was about this cement monster that follows this guy around. No one else can see this cement monster, so the man slowly goes insane. It was a pretty comedic film, in the end the man dies, but it was funny because right after that the monster found someone else to torment. My feeling is that the shorts are good for experimenting with different CGI-effects that people want to test out before they take them to the feature length, or also if they don't have a huge budget.
This is a little more than half of the films I saw. I'll be posting the second half after some much needed relaxation (as soon as I had finished the festival I had to head to class all week).
Young People Fucking
This was one of my favourite's of the festival hands down. It's a story about how sex is anything but casual regardless of the situation between consenting parties. It was an endearing story, that was also hilarious. It's definitely worth seeing more than once. Most of the stories leave on an upnote because the couples are able to resolve the drama and comes about when they are fooling around.
Control
This was also a good film. It's a bio-pic of the singer/songwriter Ian Curtis for Joy Division. Performances were spectacular, and the story was very tragic. I enjoyed the black and white cinematography in the film, I feel it gave it a more legendary feel to the story. The film also made me really want to listen to Joy Divison, I need to add some to my ipod soon. The only weakness for me in this film was that the perspective was partial to Debbie Curtis, his wife, so in the end it made her look like the victim in Ian's death, which seems too subjective to be fair.
Le Deuxieme Souffle
This was one of the weaker films I saw at the festival. It was a 2.5 hour french gangster film. For one that's too long for me to enjoy, two, I don't care much for that genre, the french part was just ok. The film had a really slow pace, it seemed to be about a retiring hitman, who gets dragged into one last job, but then things take a turn for the worst. I was kind of just waiting for the hitman to die, signally the film's end, but he seemed to survive a lot, including slitting his wrists/cracking his head open at the same time.
Chaotic Ana
This was definitely an interesting film. I can't completely decide what I thought about it because it was such a strong piece, with some innovative story/cinematic techniques. The story is very detailed, so it's hard to summarize in a few words without not doing it justice. The main idea is that they discover that she had all these past lives where each time she was tragically killed when she was 22. The present character in the film is 21, which is only one layer of the story as a whole. It's the kind of film that feels like you're peeling an onion to get to the center.
Trumbo
I picked this film at the last minute because I didn't want to see the film I had a ticket for at the same time. It was a documentary about a man who was blacklisted as a communist during the dark times of the 50s. The man clearly had an interesting life, and there were parts of the doc that I thought were great, but most of the film ended up being famous present day actors dictating old letters written by Trumbo during his heyday. This was a neat technique at first, but half the movie consisted of this, so half way through the film it really felt like a one-trick-pony. Mediocre film overall
Breakfast with Scot
This was such a cute film, I really enjoyed watching it. It's the story of a gay male couple who take in the son of one of their sister's because she had recently died. The nephew has a very effeminate matter which results in the couple thinking he needs to tone down his flair. The homosexuality theme is a major part of the film, but it does it in such an accessible, good-nature way, that one never feels uncomfortable with the subject matter, regardless of their feelings about homosexuality. It was the most mainstream feeling film that I saw, but it being a low-budget Canadian feature I doubt it'll get much distribution. The performances in this light-humoured film were also very good, especially the young boy playing Scot.
The Sun Also Rises
This was the least interesting film for me during the festival. It's a lyrical portrayal of different characters who live in the chinese countryside. The characters weren't connected, to my knowledge, and I ended up walking out halfway through because I felt like I was wasting my time and I was exhausted from a long day.
Bill
This was one of my favourite films at the festival. Aaron Eckarts plays a man who hates his cheating wife, hates his job, and aspires to own a donut franchise. Bill is a light-hearted dark comedy (if those two tones can be put side-by-side) with some playful slapstick. I think this film will get medium distribution because of the star-power, but it still has an indie feel, so it won't be huge either.
Blood Brothers
Another film I would have rather skipped. It was also a gangster film, but this time it was in chinese, so I couldn't even enjoy the language alone. It was at least only 97 minutes long, so I wasn't dying for air. I found the plot weak, because it felt like they didn't explain why and how they because gangsters, but also maybe I zoned out because I knew I wasn't into it from the get go.
Short Cuts Canada Programme 3
I decided that I wanted to give short films a chance because I don't see many, and I was modestly surprised. The first 3 films were pretty artsy, and felt pointless in my opinion, I think I just can't get into lyrical films, I need a point, dammit. But the shorts got better as they came along; they must have put them in order of quality. One of the good ones was about this cement monster that follows this guy around. No one else can see this cement monster, so the man slowly goes insane. It was a pretty comedic film, in the end the man dies, but it was funny because right after that the monster found someone else to torment. My feeling is that the shorts are good for experimenting with different CGI-effects that people want to test out before they take them to the feature length, or also if they don't have a huge budget.
This is a little more than half of the films I saw. I'll be posting the second half after some much needed relaxation (as soon as I had finished the festival I had to head to class all week).
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Moonstruck (1987)
As far as contemporary romantic comedies go, this movie is definitely one of the best. Staring Cher and a young Nicholas Cage, this film has a subtle humour that works consistently. I think it was the writing that won me over in the first 20 minutes. Cher initially is planning on marrying Cage's brother, but the situation is altered, Cher meets Cage, and they fall in love.
What I liked about this film is that Cher acts kind of butch, making her character stand out from all those willowy girly-girls that seem to be in most romantic comedies these days. The film also takes place in NYC, in the little Italy area, so all the characters have heavy italian accents, which is hilarious.
The visible age difference between Cher and Nicholas Cage, is not played with during the film, which i found odd, because it could have been part of a number of their conversations. Both actors performed very well, and I admit Cage was really cute back then.
What I liked about this film is that Cher acts kind of butch, making her character stand out from all those willowy girly-girls that seem to be in most romantic comedies these days. The film also takes place in NYC, in the little Italy area, so all the characters have heavy italian accents, which is hilarious.
The visible age difference between Cher and Nicholas Cage, is not played with during the film, which i found odd, because it could have been part of a number of their conversations. Both actors performed very well, and I admit Cage was really cute back then.
Souvenirs of Canada (2006)
I thought this was a sweet movie. Based on the visual art book by Douglas Coupland, the film follows Coupland as he creates a shrine to Canada, and interacts with his family. It's a nice mixture neither feeling too historical, or too saccharine. The chemistry between Coupland and his family is quaint, but performative to the camera.
What I enjoyed about this film is that Broken Social Scene and The New Pornographers are both on the soundtrack. It made me feel pride for being a Canadian, for it's idiosyncrasies. The nature, the vast wilderness, and pop culture that seems long time lost.
I recommend this film because it doesn't feel like a history lesson at all, but you learn to appreciate what Canada is. Running at only 70 minutes long, it's clean and concise.
What I enjoyed about this film is that Broken Social Scene and The New Pornographers are both on the soundtrack. It made me feel pride for being a Canadian, for it's idiosyncrasies. The nature, the vast wilderness, and pop culture that seems long time lost.
I recommend this film because it doesn't feel like a history lesson at all, but you learn to appreciate what Canada is. Running at only 70 minutes long, it's clean and concise.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Play Time (1967)
Wow, this movie was really something special! I really mean that. There were times when I loved what was going on, there were times I got lost in it's magic, and there were times when I wanted to pull my hair out because it was frustrating me to no ends.
This film, is honestly like no film I have seen before. I was originally a bit weary to see it because I had the impression that Tati was somewhat avant-garde and elitist, and he is to a degree, but you have to let go of your expectations before coming in to see his films.
There's an intense starkness that he employs in his composition, which takes some getting used to. But what grabbed my attention is that his shots look like they're photographs with moving elements. And I know believe there's difference between good cinematography and good photography in a film. Tati never moves the camera, but he doesn't have to because he's able to fill the screen with all the important action. Lots of times he has 2 or 3 different actions going on with different characters, which probably requires multiple viewings.
His narrative is also very different from what I'm used to. He doesn't seem to have any cause and effect present, but is able to build on what is going on, so that he viewer doesn't know what is going to happen next. The film, over the course of the 2 hours follows two people in a fake Paris; a gentleman who is trying to meet someone for an interview/meeting, and a woman who is in town with a tourist group. The two eventually meet and have a connection.
The part of this film that made me want to tear my hair out is the lack of dialogue in the film. One of my favourite attributes in film is banter between characters. Watching a film that has characters only mumble a few phrases here and there, with not much exchange from other characters was frustrating.
In essence I recommend this film because it is really different than other comedic films. The jokes themselves have been done by others but there's a spontaneity/unrehearsed feel to what you see. Definitely enjoyable.
This film, is honestly like no film I have seen before. I was originally a bit weary to see it because I had the impression that Tati was somewhat avant-garde and elitist, and he is to a degree, but you have to let go of your expectations before coming in to see his films.
There's an intense starkness that he employs in his composition, which takes some getting used to. But what grabbed my attention is that his shots look like they're photographs with moving elements. And I know believe there's difference between good cinematography and good photography in a film. Tati never moves the camera, but he doesn't have to because he's able to fill the screen with all the important action. Lots of times he has 2 or 3 different actions going on with different characters, which probably requires multiple viewings.
His narrative is also very different from what I'm used to. He doesn't seem to have any cause and effect present, but is able to build on what is going on, so that he viewer doesn't know what is going to happen next. The film, over the course of the 2 hours follows two people in a fake Paris; a gentleman who is trying to meet someone for an interview/meeting, and a woman who is in town with a tourist group. The two eventually meet and have a connection.
The part of this film that made me want to tear my hair out is the lack of dialogue in the film. One of my favourite attributes in film is banter between characters. Watching a film that has characters only mumble a few phrases here and there, with not much exchange from other characters was frustrating.
In essence I recommend this film because it is really different than other comedic films. The jokes themselves have been done by others but there's a spontaneity/unrehearsed feel to what you see. Definitely enjoyable.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
This movie was even more blah than the previous HP. These movies are impossible to shrink into under 3 hours long. I was thinking after I left the movie a smart (but less profitable) idea would be to convert the HP books into a serial (for tv, or even in movie installments). HP books, as anyone who has read them, are plot driven with loads of content, including two or three subplots that enhance the main thread. In the present movies, there are no subplots, and even the main narrative is watered so thin that you feel like you're watched a 2.5 hour summary of the novel, geez.
I was also very disappointed that the supporting characters got hardly no screen time. A person feels like they have no relevance being there, and that the actors could be using their time for better acting opportunities (ie alan rickman, emma thompson, maggie smith etc.).
In essence, these films do the book no justice. In the ending credits it said "Based on the novel by J.K. Rowlings" which does make sense, and does defend how so much is taken away from the story.
Worst disappointment: NO QUIDDITCH SCENES! wtf that's the best part of the books
I was also very disappointed that the supporting characters got hardly no screen time. A person feels like they have no relevance being there, and that the actors could be using their time for better acting opportunities (ie alan rickman, emma thompson, maggie smith etc.).
In essence, these films do the book no justice. In the ending credits it said "Based on the novel by J.K. Rowlings" which does make sense, and does defend how so much is taken away from the story.
Worst disappointment: NO QUIDDITCH SCENES! wtf that's the best part of the books
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Hairspray (2007)
This movie was awesome!! I really enjoyed watching it because it's the kind of film that gives me goosebumps when a really awesome choreographed scene is going on with good singing; it also makes me feel so happy at the end of it. Upbeat musicals are definitely one of my favourite genres. Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnbald was amazing. The girl really has great charm and presence on camera.
Some of the minor disappointments, my fave Amanda Bynes was hardly given any screen time, and when she did her singing was heavily produced (fake?) and her dancing was atrocious. Amanda I was so hoping to see more from you. However there were a half dozen slapstick moments where she shined, so it wasn't a complete loss.
John Travolta was pretty funny dressed in drag, he really pulled off the look dancing, but singing he really sounded like he was trying to recreate his voice from Grease which doesn't really work when you're trying to portray a middle age house wife.
The array of other teen actors that played supporting roles were all very talented with the singing and dancing, which was very enjoyable.
I really wish there were more movies like this. They really leave the audience in a good mood when they leave the theater, even the users waiting at the end to clean were moving their hips to the closing song.
Some of the minor disappointments, my fave Amanda Bynes was hardly given any screen time, and when she did her singing was heavily produced (fake?) and her dancing was atrocious. Amanda I was so hoping to see more from you. However there were a half dozen slapstick moments where she shined, so it wasn't a complete loss.
John Travolta was pretty funny dressed in drag, he really pulled off the look dancing, but singing he really sounded like he was trying to recreate his voice from Grease which doesn't really work when you're trying to portray a middle age house wife.
The array of other teen actors that played supporting roles were all very talented with the singing and dancing, which was very enjoyable.
I really wish there were more movies like this. They really leave the audience in a good mood when they leave the theater, even the users waiting at the end to clean were moving their hips to the closing song.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Made (2001)
I really liked this film; it was really well done. Starring Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau and directed by Favreau, it really highlights the unmistakably good chemistry between the two. Vaughn and Favreau also starred in Swingers (1996) together which is also an awesome display of their great chemistry. In these films Vaughn plays the comic relief to Favreau's straight guy character. Favreau is the guy with a good conscious, he wants to live a respectable life, raise his girlfriend's daughter properly, and show dignity to his fellow man. Vaughn is just the opposite, which is where the hilarity comes in. Vaughn is the guy who believes he shouldn't have to work to get anything, that's he's god's gift to women, and that his ignorance is endearing, haha.
Their film chemistry is similar with Jay and Silent Bob. Vaughn has a word count of at least 70 when he's worked up, while Favreau will pull Vaughn foot out of his mouth and clean up after the messes he makes.
Puff Daddy makes an interesting appearance also.
Their film chemistry is similar with Jay and Silent Bob. Vaughn has a word count of at least 70 when he's worked up, while Favreau will pull Vaughn foot out of his mouth and clean up after the messes he makes.
Puff Daddy makes an interesting appearance also.
The Simpsons Movie (2007)
This movie lived up to my expectations, but those were pretty low. I didn't there would be much to The Simpsons Movie because everything that they show could be capable of has already been achieved in the 18 years it has been on the air. There have been many comparisons to the South Park Movie, which was wildly successful and was heralded by critics. But the thing with South Park is that it hadn't been on tv as long, and it's conventions are a lot less restricting.
What made The Simpsons Movie lacklustre is that all the decent jokes are hyperboles of the jokes everyone is familiar with from the regular series.
Something that did stand out was the animation, it was a lot more sophisticated than the show (and while you may be pointing out that all I'm doing is comparing the film to the show, I think it's necessary, because the movie only exists because of the show). I enjoyed the animation because it was like watching the show in high-def with a wide-angle lens. While this did nothing to make the plot anymore interesting, it made for nice eye candy.
The Simpsons have increasingly decreased in originality over the years; this is obvious for anyone who tunes in every once and a while. A few months ago I read the academic sized study on The Simpsons: "Planet Simpsons". It really brings to light how the show is becoming an exageration of itself, and I believe that the movie is no exception.
What made The Simpsons Movie lacklustre is that all the decent jokes are hyperboles of the jokes everyone is familiar with from the regular series.
Something that did stand out was the animation, it was a lot more sophisticated than the show (and while you may be pointing out that all I'm doing is comparing the film to the show, I think it's necessary, because the movie only exists because of the show). I enjoyed the animation because it was like watching the show in high-def with a wide-angle lens. While this did nothing to make the plot anymore interesting, it made for nice eye candy.
The Simpsons have increasingly decreased in originality over the years; this is obvious for anyone who tunes in every once and a while. A few months ago I read the academic sized study on The Simpsons: "Planet Simpsons". It really brings to light how the show is becoming an exageration of itself, and I believe that the movie is no exception.
Monday, June 18, 2007
The Da Vinci Code (2006)
So I finally told myself I should sit down and watch this film that so many people have badmouthed, yet had gotten so much attention last May. I read the book about a year and a half ago, and I remember most of what happened, so that obviously took an influence in my thoughts on the film.
In essence, the film is like flat cola, it seems sweet and that it has potential, but it really has no buzz going on. I admit I couldn't even get through the whole thing. I got to 1.5/2.5 hours, and decided that the film really wasn't going to change in pace or do anything quite interesting that I haven't read before, so I decided not to waste another hour of my time ( I have valuable other things to watch, haha).
The film is really a paint-by-number depiction. The cinematography is too damn dark, and moody lighty, that just makes it confusing to see what's going on. The direction is also non-existent. I say save your time and don't watch it.
In essence, the film is like flat cola, it seems sweet and that it has potential, but it really has no buzz going on. I admit I couldn't even get through the whole thing. I got to 1.5/2.5 hours, and decided that the film really wasn't going to change in pace or do anything quite interesting that I haven't read before, so I decided not to waste another hour of my time ( I have valuable other things to watch, haha).
The film is really a paint-by-number depiction. The cinematography is too damn dark, and moody lighty, that just makes it confusing to see what's going on. The direction is also non-existent. I say save your time and don't watch it.
Kicking and Screaming (1995)
I thought this movie was alright. The story is about a group of friends who have just graduated college, and how they spend that first year of independence from school.
I thought it was very well written with subtle, but decent acting for the cast. Honestly going into the film I was hoping for a more archaic narrative. When I first heard about Kicking and Screaming, I hoped that it would have the same feel as Linklater's Slacker from 1990. Instead Kicking and Screaming is a lot more accessible than Slacker. I have to say though that K&S is the middle of the pendulum swing with Slacker on the art house extreme, and Reality Bites on the mainstream extreme. Essentially K&S should be the ideal candidate for apathetic post-college individuals. I think this film would have got more attention, but it doesn't seem to want to toot it's own horn.
This is the first feature film by Noah Baumbach, and I feel like it should get some attention, since he's been doing well for himself lately (ie. The Squid and the Whale, a must see). On the other hand, my theory is that K&S isn't getting much nostalgic attention, the way Slacker did, because it was just recently put on the Criterion Collection. Baumbach is a writer/director worth keeping tabs on.
I thought it was very well written with subtle, but decent acting for the cast. Honestly going into the film I was hoping for a more archaic narrative. When I first heard about Kicking and Screaming, I hoped that it would have the same feel as Linklater's Slacker from 1990. Instead Kicking and Screaming is a lot more accessible than Slacker. I have to say though that K&S is the middle of the pendulum swing with Slacker on the art house extreme, and Reality Bites on the mainstream extreme. Essentially K&S should be the ideal candidate for apathetic post-college individuals. I think this film would have got more attention, but it doesn't seem to want to toot it's own horn.
This is the first feature film by Noah Baumbach, and I feel like it should get some attention, since he's been doing well for himself lately (ie. The Squid and the Whale, a must see). On the other hand, my theory is that K&S isn't getting much nostalgic attention, the way Slacker did, because it was just recently put on the Criterion Collection. Baumbach is a writer/director worth keeping tabs on.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Smokin' Aces (2006)
I'm just rolling out the bad review today. I watched Smokin Aces two days ago, and I just didn't see the point of it. I know they were trying to create a slick heist/caper film, but it just was a flash of bling and posse.
When I first saw the trailer for this film I really thought it had potential. It had a decent cast, the premise looked interesting, and the cinematography seemed tight. Granted while watching it I was chatting on msn, but still I didn't miss anything by looking away.
I think the main thing that makes this a poor film is that they spend a confusing amount of time on the sub-plots. Because there are so many people looking to kill Buddy Israel, they spend time with each of the hitmen. Maybe in theory this sounded like a good idea, see how there are so many different people looking out to score from the murder, but at the same time, it's just confusing because it keeps jumping back and forth between the stories, but never having the characters crosspaths, which would be an interesting plot development.
When I first saw the trailer for this film I really thought it had potential. It had a decent cast, the premise looked interesting, and the cinematography seemed tight. Granted while watching it I was chatting on msn, but still I didn't miss anything by looking away.
I think the main thing that makes this a poor film is that they spend a confusing amount of time on the sub-plots. Because there are so many people looking to kill Buddy Israel, they spend time with each of the hitmen. Maybe in theory this sounded like a good idea, see how there are so many different people looking out to score from the murder, but at the same time, it's just confusing because it keeps jumping back and forth between the stories, but never having the characters crosspaths, which would be an interesting plot development.
Knocked Up (2007)
I thought this movie was alright, but it wasn't really what I was expecting. I was hoping for a film that was more like 40 Year Old Virgin, which is a very funny movie, one of my favourites. The reason why I heavily juxtaposed these two films is because they're both directed by Judd Apatow, who is known for his wise-crack humour mixed in with lovable slapstick (both genre pretty difficult to master).
What Knocked Up had that I found weakened the film is drama and poor improv. I read in an interview with Seth Rogen (the protagonist) that Judd let him do a lot of improv. While this approach may be creative, it actually led to the characters mostly swearing, and not being witty. Seth also brought in tid-bits of autobiographical info, ie. where he grew up, and some other random Canadiana references. The autobio study was just whatever, but for me, if there's an abundance of profane language in a film, without a balance of wit, then the film has the quality of a typical college home movie (seriously!).
I was also pretty disappointed by the ending. Yeah it was cutesy and all that jazz, but still was pretty unrealisitic.
What Knocked Up had that I found weakened the film is drama and poor improv. I read in an interview with Seth Rogen (the protagonist) that Judd let him do a lot of improv. While this approach may be creative, it actually led to the characters mostly swearing, and not being witty. Seth also brought in tid-bits of autobiographical info, ie. where he grew up, and some other random Canadiana references. The autobio study was just whatever, but for me, if there's an abundance of profane language in a film, without a balance of wit, then the film has the quality of a typical college home movie (seriously!).
I was also pretty disappointed by the ending. Yeah it was cutesy and all that jazz, but still was pretty unrealisitic.
Alpha Dog (2006)
I thought this was an interesting case study on how messed up the people are in America. Cinematically, however, I thought this was a weak film. The script was lacking originality (most of it was swearing), the composition was stark, and the actors looked like they were uninspired.
The interesting part of the film, the premise, I think deserves attention though. A kid is kidnapped because his brother owes money to a drug dealer. After a couple of hours the kid decides he'd like to stay with his kidnappers because he feels smothered in his homelife. Most of the film revolves around the conflict of whether the kid should be taken back to his parents, or if he should be allowed to stay and hang out with his kidnappers. The guys he stays with are very nice to him, and they become friends, so it's complicated to say whether he was being held against his will.
In the end (spoiler) the kid is killed because his captors would rather he die than go to prison for kidnapping (which happens anyway).
Now what's interesting in this whole drama is that it illustrated that the tragedy occurred because pretty much everyone was behaving selfishly. The brother who owed the money got his brother in that situation because he couldn't get his act together. The kid remained "kidnapped" because his parents wouldn't let him have a life. The drug dealer loses everything that he had because he didn't treat anyone with respect. And the kidnapped kid gets killed because he milked his shortlived freedom, when he should have returned sooner to his parents.
I think this is a good study on the american way of life. Everyone is looking out for their own back, but by not stepping up to help anyone else, they're screwing themselves over.
I found this interpretation took me some time to come up with because they film doesn't do much for the imagination, it is what it is. It felt very expository, rather than reflexive (I prefer the latter) so you really have to engage yourself in the characters actions to get a sense of why they are doing what they are doing.
The interesting part of the film, the premise, I think deserves attention though. A kid is kidnapped because his brother owes money to a drug dealer. After a couple of hours the kid decides he'd like to stay with his kidnappers because he feels smothered in his homelife. Most of the film revolves around the conflict of whether the kid should be taken back to his parents, or if he should be allowed to stay and hang out with his kidnappers. The guys he stays with are very nice to him, and they become friends, so it's complicated to say whether he was being held against his will.
In the end (spoiler) the kid is killed because his captors would rather he die than go to prison for kidnapping (which happens anyway).
Now what's interesting in this whole drama is that it illustrated that the tragedy occurred because pretty much everyone was behaving selfishly. The brother who owed the money got his brother in that situation because he couldn't get his act together. The kid remained "kidnapped" because his parents wouldn't let him have a life. The drug dealer loses everything that he had because he didn't treat anyone with respect. And the kidnapped kid gets killed because he milked his shortlived freedom, when he should have returned sooner to his parents.
I think this is a good study on the american way of life. Everyone is looking out for their own back, but by not stepping up to help anyone else, they're screwing themselves over.
I found this interpretation took me some time to come up with because they film doesn't do much for the imagination, it is what it is. It felt very expository, rather than reflexive (I prefer the latter) so you really have to engage yourself in the characters actions to get a sense of why they are doing what they are doing.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
The U.S. vs. John Lennon (2006)
I thought this was a really smartly made film. It shows how sometimes authority will really go to any length to crush revolutionaries.
The film started out lacking, unfortunately, it seemed like it was hastily put together, to show a general view of the feelings at that time. But after 15 minutes or so it got a lot better.
I really enjoyed the footage that they put together of the various demonstrations and media interviews that John was a part of. It really gave a strong sense that he was a committed person to the peace movements.
I liked how the testimonials didn't take up too much of the film, and rather was a lot of archival footage and photos.
I thought it was interesting that John's son, Sean, had no involvement with the film. Was it because he entered John's life so late, and after most of his protest years, or did he not want to put himself in the situation where he had to recount his memories with his father?
Overall, I think this movie is worth checking out. It's completely partial to John Lennon's case, but why would they take the other side, that'd just be ridiculous.
The film started out lacking, unfortunately, it seemed like it was hastily put together, to show a general view of the feelings at that time. But after 15 minutes or so it got a lot better.
I really enjoyed the footage that they put together of the various demonstrations and media interviews that John was a part of. It really gave a strong sense that he was a committed person to the peace movements.
I liked how the testimonials didn't take up too much of the film, and rather was a lot of archival footage and photos.
I thought it was interesting that John's son, Sean, had no involvement with the film. Was it because he entered John's life so late, and after most of his protest years, or did he not want to put himself in the situation where he had to recount his memories with his father?
Overall, I think this movie is worth checking out. It's completely partial to John Lennon's case, but why would they take the other side, that'd just be ridiculous.
Monday, June 04, 2007
A Night at the Museum (2006)
I thought this movie was pretty weak, but that's not to say I think no would enjoy this film. Both my mom and sister said they enjoyed the film quite a bit, and I can respect from afar their enjoyment. The thing about this film is that it's too easy and self-explanatory for me. Not to sound elitist, but I've seen this formula many times before so there's nothing new for me to see. If you are interested in said formula, this is my interpretation of it: any-robin-william's-movie-involving-a-family. There is usually an inept father, who's trying desperately to connect with his family. The kid feels like the world is out to get him because he has trouble respecting his father. But then it all ends up happy with the father and kids rejoining when after they go through a series of hijinks (often making use of fantasy devices, see how this is kid-friendly).
This film stars Ben Stiller, who I've enjoyed over the years, but his performance in this film is like week old pizza, you think it's going to be delish, but it tastes dried up, and tried. He plays the same character here as in most of his other films. I think the last film I enjoyed with him is Dodgeball, which was pretty funny.
I think what turned me off of this film, is that it's pure Disney. While I can see how it's good for kids, from afar, I cringe at the thought of having to sit through a +90 minute fare.
The one positive note, I did really enjoy the brief scenes between Ricky Gervais and Stiller, along with Dick van Dyke, Mickey Rooney and Stiller. Gervais is hilarious, and should have been given more screen time; Dyke and Rooney are asstacular in the scene where they brawl Stiller.
This film stars Ben Stiller, who I've enjoyed over the years, but his performance in this film is like week old pizza, you think it's going to be delish, but it tastes dried up, and tried. He plays the same character here as in most of his other films. I think the last film I enjoyed with him is Dodgeball, which was pretty funny.
I think what turned me off of this film, is that it's pure Disney. While I can see how it's good for kids, from afar, I cringe at the thought of having to sit through a +90 minute fare.
The one positive note, I did really enjoy the brief scenes between Ricky Gervais and Stiller, along with Dick van Dyke, Mickey Rooney and Stiller. Gervais is hilarious, and should have been given more screen time; Dyke and Rooney are asstacular in the scene where they brawl Stiller.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
I really liked this film. It had a strong message about staying true to your dream, which I could relate to. The protagonist (played by Will Smith) never let go of what was sacred in his life, his son, and his pursuit of happiness.
When I originally heard about this film I thought it was going to be a syrupy story about overcoming all obstacles, and in a way it was, but I think the sincerity and the real hardships of the protagonist won me over. I think also knowing that this was a real story, of a man who was pretty much living on the streets when he got his break in life to work at a stock broker's firm. I think it's kind of funny that the corruption of finances is never brought up. I guess it's more of a rags to riches story, rather than an expose on the damning of corporate finance.
This film was all about the acting. With Will Smith and his real-life son, playing his son, I think this aspects really carried the film. Will Smith was phenomenal in his portrayal of the protagonist.
The direction of the film was alright, but I didn't see it as anything auteurish about it.
I say this is a film worth checking out if you're looking for motivation in following your dream.
When I originally heard about this film I thought it was going to be a syrupy story about overcoming all obstacles, and in a way it was, but I think the sincerity and the real hardships of the protagonist won me over. I think also knowing that this was a real story, of a man who was pretty much living on the streets when he got his break in life to work at a stock broker's firm. I think it's kind of funny that the corruption of finances is never brought up. I guess it's more of a rags to riches story, rather than an expose on the damning of corporate finance.
This film was all about the acting. With Will Smith and his real-life son, playing his son, I think this aspects really carried the film. Will Smith was phenomenal in his portrayal of the protagonist.
The direction of the film was alright, but I didn't see it as anything auteurish about it.
I say this is a film worth checking out if you're looking for motivation in following your dream.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Shrek The Third (2007)
This movie was pretty hit-and-miss. It was better than I thought it would be, but still didn't achieve the same excellence as the first Shrek (like a sequel would be able to beat it).
The storyline continues off where the 2nd Shrek ended, which is pretty self-explanatory, but the characters are portrayed a lot more one-dimensionally. I enjoyed the pop culture references as always, and there were a few that seemed fresh.
In terms of visual aesthetics, the animation seems pretty flat. The character's bodies look like they've been created hastily because they look disproportioned to their environment. I mean that Shrek's body looks awkwardly made, kind of thing. This aspects distracted me a bit, because I feel they could have tried to make the long shots more accurate. The close ups, I admit are well done.
The music that is nondiegetic felt awkward because they were mostly done during montages, and overall, these montage sequences were weak. I think what makes Shrek good is the dialogue between the characters. Shrek, at it's best, feels like a theatre play because it deals with prejudices people toward others who do not fit in.
I was also pretty disappointed that they didn't have a karaoke bar sequence during the credits, those were always my favourite (maybe the studio didn't feel like paying a bundle for copyrights).
The storyline continues off where the 2nd Shrek ended, which is pretty self-explanatory, but the characters are portrayed a lot more one-dimensionally. I enjoyed the pop culture references as always, and there were a few that seemed fresh.
In terms of visual aesthetics, the animation seems pretty flat. The character's bodies look like they've been created hastily because they look disproportioned to their environment. I mean that Shrek's body looks awkwardly made, kind of thing. This aspects distracted me a bit, because I feel they could have tried to make the long shots more accurate. The close ups, I admit are well done.
The music that is nondiegetic felt awkward because they were mostly done during montages, and overall, these montage sequences were weak. I think what makes Shrek good is the dialogue between the characters. Shrek, at it's best, feels like a theatre play because it deals with prejudices people toward others who do not fit in.
I was also pretty disappointed that they didn't have a karaoke bar sequence during the credits, those were always my favourite (maybe the studio didn't feel like paying a bundle for copyrights).
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Volver (2006)
I thought this was a good film. The story was fantastic and kept my attention the whole way through. The cinematography was also strong with good composition and good use of colours. The acting was alright too. I don't see what the fuss over Penelope Cruz is. She's a so-so actor, with a really nice body, but people lavish her with praise, why? Because she's Spanish? lame.
There's a plot motif that happens toward the end that i like, borrowing heavily from Chinatown, if you know what I mean?
This film is worth seeing for the drama that occurs between the family members. They act like a real family acts, close to each other, but in a way so close that they lie about some of the most important events in their lives, true to life, I'd say.
There's a plot motif that happens toward the end that i like, borrowing heavily from Chinatown, if you know what I mean?
This film is worth seeing for the drama that occurs between the family members. They act like a real family acts, close to each other, but in a way so close that they lie about some of the most important events in their lives, true to life, I'd say.
Children of Men (2006)
This was an intense film. I enjoyed it, but it's not something I could watch again, unless I had a specific reason to. The subject matter and visual were very heart wrenching, but made me realize how fragile human life is. I guess I'm over generalizing the film, but it's hard to put into words because the film does not have a lot of dialogue. That's not to say that the film has a weak script. I think the style of the director, Alfonso Cuaron, did very well with this story.
He is known for his long static takes, so it was put together very eloquently.
I recommend this film because this subject matter of the world's fertility rate is a significant topic, and one that is very present in today's issues.
Clive Owen was pretty good as the films protagonist, and I thought he carried the narrative decently.
He is known for his long static takes, so it was put together very eloquently.
I recommend this film because this subject matter of the world's fertility rate is a significant topic, and one that is very present in today's issues.
Clive Owen was pretty good as the films protagonist, and I thought he carried the narrative decently.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
I thought this was a pretty weak film. I didn't enjoy it because the cinematography had no imagination, and the characters screamed and fought so much that I almost didn't want to finish watching it.
This style of film is one of my LEAST favourites. Similar films include It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, and Flight of the Phoenix. Ironic fact, these 3 films have been each remade within the past few years, all remakes complete trash. The original films are no masterpieces either, why the hell do they remake the crappy films.
Ernest Borgnine is also so friggin annoying in this film, his voice and face respectively.
I don't recommend this film unless you want to watch something that will help you appreciate good films.
This style of film is one of my LEAST favourites. Similar films include It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, and Flight of the Phoenix. Ironic fact, these 3 films have been each remade within the past few years, all remakes complete trash. The original films are no masterpieces either, why the hell do they remake the crappy films.
Ernest Borgnine is also so friggin annoying in this film, his voice and face respectively.
I don't recommend this film unless you want to watch something that will help you appreciate good films.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
West Side Story (1961)
I really like this movie. For months now I've been trying to see this movie for free (the library had a ridiculous queue), so I ask a friend who owned it, and I must say it's one of the best musicals ever. This was my 2nd time watching it, but it was even better watching it again. The dancing is superb, and I do love great choreography. Story is fine, it doesn't stand out, just a modern take at romeo and juliet, but the dancing and singing, sigh so good.
The setting and costume is also worth paying attention to. There is some great use of bright colours in the women's dresses, against the drab colours the men wear.
Some of my favourite song (and I love them all) "Play is cool, boy", "America", "When you're a jet", "Mambo" (which has no singing, just awesome dancing), and "Tonight" to some extent.
The setting and costume is also worth paying attention to. There is some great use of bright colours in the women's dresses, against the drab colours the men wear.
Some of my favourite song (and I love them all) "Play is cool, boy", "America", "When you're a jet", "Mambo" (which has no singing, just awesome dancing), and "Tonight" to some extent.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Help! (1965)
This movie is alright. The pacing is slow though. Unfortunately I've been making constant comparisons with A Hard Day's Night, an earlier Beatles film. In my opinion, A Hard Day's Night is a classic slapstick comedy, I own it too. While Help doesn't fit into the same mold as A Hard Day's Night, it still has some amazing elements, that is making me finish watching the film, rather than just turn it off. Both films are directed by Richard Lester, so they have many common cinematic devices, but Help! feels very subtle and quiet in comparison to AHDN. What I like about Help! is that The Fab Four still deliver their random ironic situational comments. John seems ot be getting more air time than the others, but he's been the funniest so far. The plot revolves around a conundrum that Ringo has found himself in, but Ringo's aloof performance is more annoying than silly. Paul and George seem bored with what they're doing, but maybe that's because they don't have as much screen time.
Special attention to the sections devoted to The Beatles doing their music video schitck. "She's got a ticket to ride" where they're on a ski hill is pretty funny. Director Lestor has some awesome off-center cinematography, that still feels original to watch today. The Monkees tv series came out a year after this film was released (1966-1968) and hugely steels comedic devices from Help!, which I'm sad to say devalues this film. While I realize Help! precedes The Monkees' series, the commonality makes it hard for it to stand out.
By the end of the film, I feel like it was able to redeem itself. Funny scene, the four of them are wearing funny beards; the irony is Ringo and John wear beards that they actually have for real later in life, haha.
I think overall this film is worth seeing if you want to see something funny/silly.
Special attention to the sections devoted to The Beatles doing their music video schitck. "She's got a ticket to ride" where they're on a ski hill is pretty funny. Director Lestor has some awesome off-center cinematography, that still feels original to watch today. The Monkees tv series came out a year after this film was released (1966-1968) and hugely steels comedic devices from Help!, which I'm sad to say devalues this film. While I realize Help! precedes The Monkees' series, the commonality makes it hard for it to stand out.
By the end of the film, I feel like it was able to redeem itself. Funny scene, the four of them are wearing funny beards; the irony is Ringo and John wear beards that they actually have for real later in life, haha.
I think overall this film is worth seeing if you want to see something funny/silly.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997)
I enjoyed this movie for a number of reasons. For one, the pacing is really good. I think Eastwood really knows his timing with his films because even though this film is two and a half hours long, it goes by so smoothly so it doesn't feel long at all. I constantly feel engaged in the action of the scene. One reason why I think the scenes are so engaging is because Eastwood balances the tone of each scene so that they work together. There are a number of comic relief scenes that I think really lighten the film up, so that the whol film does not revolve around the murder case. I think it is important to have a subplot because it lets the audience relax for a few minutes, instead of constantly getting more info about the main plot.
John Cusack was also good in this film. Even though he plays his character the same as any other one of his characters, I think it works in the context of the film. The same with Kevin Spacy. I think Spacy's character is a lot like the one he played in The Usual Suspects, but of course in another setting, but there are many character commonalities, like lying to the other characters, that he performs.
John Cusack was also good in this film. Even though he plays his character the same as any other one of his characters, I think it works in the context of the film. The same with Kevin Spacy. I think Spacy's character is a lot like the one he played in The Usual Suspects, but of course in another setting, but there are many character commonalities, like lying to the other characters, that he performs.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
The Holiday (2006)
I thought this was a cute film. The premise was good, the cast was good, and the setting was awesome. However, I thought the story line wasn't balanced enough. For anyone familiar with the story line you know that two women switch houses for their vacation, and they end up falling in love with a guy at the vacation spot. It's unbalanced because more time is spent on the romanace with Cameron Diaz than with Kate Winslet. I guess it makes sense in the story line because it was more about the physical attraction between Cameron Diaz and Judd Law, than with Kate Winslet and Jack Black.
I found myself paying a lot of attention to the jewelery that both Cameron and Kate were wearing. There was simple, yet elegant pieces. Since I recently got my ears pierced I pay more attention to earings that other ladies wear. Also the necklaces were really cool that they wore in the film. They were mostly long necklaces and also simple and elegant so they matched the earings they wore. Both actresses wore the jewelery effortlessly and it really added to the tone of the film, I feel.
Judd Law and Jack Black were also cute in this film. I thought it was good that their romance stories were also brought to light, but it was a good decision to never make the film too sad or depressing when the characters were discussing how their last relationship ended.
This film reminds me of Love Actually which is also British (The Holiday I guess is half British), except The Holiday is only with two overlapping romances while Love Actually has many relationships going on. I guess The Holiday can be seen as an echo film to try and capture the same audience that was won over by Love Actually.
I found myself paying a lot of attention to the jewelery that both Cameron and Kate were wearing. There was simple, yet elegant pieces. Since I recently got my ears pierced I pay more attention to earings that other ladies wear. Also the necklaces were really cool that they wore in the film. They were mostly long necklaces and also simple and elegant so they matched the earings they wore. Both actresses wore the jewelery effortlessly and it really added to the tone of the film, I feel.
Judd Law and Jack Black were also cute in this film. I thought it was good that their romance stories were also brought to light, but it was a good decision to never make the film too sad or depressing when the characters were discussing how their last relationship ended.
This film reminds me of Love Actually which is also British (The Holiday I guess is half British), except The Holiday is only with two overlapping romances while Love Actually has many relationships going on. I guess The Holiday can be seen as an echo film to try and capture the same audience that was won over by Love Actually.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
