It's Always Something

Young Adult (2011)

2011-12-25T19:43:00.002-05:00

I was relatively disappointed with this film. It could have been better, but at the same time, I feel like it would have taken a lot more effort to make this film remarkable. It really felt like the director, writer and actor all phoned this one it.

The character was also quite sad to watch. I felt bad that it came out that the female protagonist had mental health issues. It made it hard to watch, because it because evident that it was not going to end too happily.

The Artist (2011)

2011-12-25T19:39:00.002-05:00

This movie was enjoyable for what it had to offer. My favourite part of the film, was a scene that looked like it was going to take the film in a surrealism direction, but it ended up only being a one-off scene. It was the scene where the protagonist can hear sound all around him, but he cannot hear himself make a noise. It was quite freaky, and I was hoping it would become of developing/episodic theme in the film. My date to the film said that it wouldn't have made sense if the film went in that direction, because it's a french art film, but I personally would have liked it to go that way. Maybe I was just in the mood for a David Lynch film.
The ending was cute, and overall I did enjoy myself during the film. Check it out if you're looking for a b/w revival feel silent film.
Cheers.

Melancholia (2011)

2011-11-13T19:41:00.002-05:00

I liked this movie for what it was. Anything that Lars von Trier releases I will see regardless of what people are saying. This film wasn't my favourite of his, but I definitely enjoyed seeing it.
The sound track was really good. I enjoyed the classical music that was used. The performances were good also.

What I found silly was that the plot actually had the earth being destroyed, I mean come on, really?

50/50 (2011)

2011-10-15T12:54:00.002-04:00

This movie was decent, but there were elements that stood out to me.

I really liked how they portrayed Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character as an old man. His character is really 27, but everything about him screams angry old man. For one, he works in Radio. This is a medium that is not considered "contemporary" by any standards. In today's instant gratification social media networking work, his radio piece on volcanoes probably doesn't garner much attention. Another aspect is that he lives in a house somewhere in a more remote area (but probably not too far from downtown). This is not typical for someone his age. Having a house to yourself at 27 is more rare in today's culture. Another, and the most obvious is that he doesn't drive a car. While most young people who don't drive, are like that because they can't afford one, Joseph's character choose not to drive because it's the 5th leading cause for death, which to me sounds like an old man kind of statement.

The aspect of the film that I thought was weak, was that they only gave Joseph's character one guy friend. While it makes sense because it allows for more depth of the character, because you are spending less time describing other supporting characters, I felt like he should have been given one or two cronies at least for maybe some different comedic relief off of Seth Rogen's character. But that aside, giving him only one male friend, paints him more as an old man.

I liked the dynamic between Joseph and his cheating girlfriend. Even though it was sad for the character, I really felt like this added to the script.
I also really like Angelica Huston as the mother. She played this role really well, I wish there would have been more scenes with her.

Visually the film was decent. One scene had a cool split screen going on, when Joseph and Seth were burning his ex girlfriend's painting, that was a funny scene.

Peter, Bjorn and John - Gimme Some (2011)

2011-04-10T14:24:00.002-04:00

I had been excited for weeks to listen to this album. It was definitely enjoyable. It didn't floor me, but I got out of it what I wanted.

PB & J have a distinct rock kind of sound that makes them accessible to mainstream audiences, but also keeps them in a niche market.

Definitely good background music at a party, or something to chill out to after a long day.

Tracks that caught my ear on first listen: Dig a Little Deeper, and I Know You Don't Love Me.

I'm debating going to their show in May, not sure if it is sold out or not.

Peace.

Rubber (2011)

2011-04-10T13:59:00.002-04:00

This movie is pure shits and giggles. I definitely think it's worth checking out at least for the reason that it will blow your mind literally and figuratively.

On one hand I felt like Rubber was this incredible art film, comparing to Jean-Luc Godard who actively breaks film conventions and goes out of his way to say "fuck you" to his audience. And on the other hand, this film was pure eye candy with a tire literally blowing things and people up.

I don't think I will ever see this movie again, unless someone I know insists I see it with them, but it was definitely worth seeing at least once.

Cheers.

The Kings Speech (2010)

2011-03-27T21:18:00.003-04:00

This film was better than I thought it would be. Normally I am not prone to watching period films because I have trouble relating to time-periods where the internet and cell phones to not exist, call me crazy.
Performances by all actors were phenomenal.

Scene that stood out for me was when Geoffrey Rush's wife meets the King and Queen and is speechless and overwhelmed by the honour of being in the same room as royalty, and she is strong enough to extend the invitation for dinner.

Also the soundtrack was really melodic. I thought the music very well complimented the inner struggle King George VI faced with his speech impediment, and the emotional toil it took on him and the people around him.

The story of this film is one that I never knew. I am not very familiar with English history, or lesser known English history, so it was really cool to learn about the King's speech impediment.

I can see why this film won best picture at the Oscars, it definitely deserved it. Definitely worth seeing.

Mother Mother - Eureka (2011)

2011-03-26T18:31:00.003-04:00

Album review #2.
I have listened to this album 2.5 times within 24 hours and I have to say that overall it agrees with me.

The album's first single: The Stand is very catchy.
On "Baby Don't Dance", album seems dancy so far.
I'm really digging the bass lines. Not sure if it's just because they are on the same label as The New Pornographers, but they definitely so similiar. Maybe part of that has to do with the fact that they're both based in Vancouver

Something good to listen to in the background at a party - "Simply Simple"
Track "Getaway" mellow, not that strong.

Overall an enjoyable album. I listened to a few tracks off of "O My Heart" after listening to Eureka, Mother Mother is definitely a band that has legs. I don't see them getting huge, but their tracks have a nice edge.

The Dears - Degeneration Street (2011)

2011-03-05T18:48:00.002-05:00

I just finished listening to this album for the first time all the way through. Like most albums I listen, it's hard for me to make judgment to form my opinion.

This album didn't do that much for me, but then again I wasn't expecting it to. Unfortunately everything that The Dears will and have released since No Cities Left will be a pale consideration because of the heavily emotional attachment I had to it. No Cities left is an amazing album, and I listened to it ad nauseum when it came out. That being said I am not capable of listening to No Cities Left because of the memories it represents.

To get back to Degeneration Street, it's still a listenable album. This post represents my first attempt at writing an album review, in change from my strictly film reviews. None of the songs of Degeneration Street stood out to me on first listen either. I will have to listen to it again some time (probably at work where it'll go decently well in the background).

Cheers.

The Kids are Alright (2010)

2011-02-20T23:36:00.002-05:00

I enjoyed this movie. The structure, characters and flow felt very traditional and practical, but with the one twist, that the couple are lesbians instead of the run-of-the-mill heterosexual couple added a cool element, but I felt like this really didn't make a difference in how I watched the film. I feel like the film was able to really take this issue and make it very invisible in the narrative. Yes jokes are made about how lesbian couples are not traditional, but I felt like the made draw of this film is about fidelity, and how families deal with it, and how it is important to stick together as a unit.
Good performances by the entire cast. Good pacing of the narrative. Recommend. Even though the formula is very predictable I am glad it is nominated for an Oscar.

I'm Still Here (2010)

2011-02-20T23:25:00.002-05:00

This movie really wasn't that good. I was expecting more. I thought maybe this would be a legitimately cool movie. The hype behind the making of the film, and the press being released around the time the film played TIFF and also played in theatres made me think, hmm I really need to check out this film. Instead I found it was pretty lackluster. It did not keep my attention throughout, I had trouble finishing the film for that matter. It felt like Joaquin was acting in a way that made him look contrived. I feel like part of the reason why I didn't like this film is because, because of the hype leading up to the films' release I expected Joaquin to play the character more naturally, but his portrayal felt completely forced, and I didn't believe for a second that he was this guy that just lost it and decided he wanted to be a hip-hop artist.
To give the film at least it's deserved credit, the concept is really cool. I like how everything that was going on in Joaquin's professional life is included in this film. The fact that they didn't have to censor any of this out, and that all of Hollywood kind of went along with it or were at least fooled for a bit. I guess if anything this film was a half-decent prank they tried to pull off. It wasn't worth the 5 bucks I paid to rent it, but I left it feeling at least I made my own opinion.
Scene that did draw my attention is when Joaquin is talking to the spiritual guide, and he is talking about the mountain top water drop. That was a cool speech about taking control of your own life, and knowing that you are responsible for the direction in your life.

Les Amours Imaginaires (2010)

2011-01-30T20:13:00.002-05:00

At the risk, and with no guilt my tag line for this film: He's just not that into you, meets Jules and Jim.
This film was fantastic, I loved it every bit about it. I wish more films were of this caliber. Dolan beautifully captured the essence of being in love with someone who is for the most part ambivalent about your feelings. The cast did a great job.

I also really liked the coloring and composition of the film. The pillow talk, although redundant in explaining the feelings of the character, really emphasized the sadness they felt.

The scenes of the expository interviews really added depth (and that's where the He's Just Not that Into you analogy comes from).

Overall amazing film, definitely recommend it. Now if only J'ai Tue Ma Mere was available outside of Quebec I'd be set.

Cheers.

127 Hours (2010)

2011-01-30T17:08:00.002-05:00

From when this movie started the only thought I had was "oh god, when is he going to saw his arm off", and I think that might have been the general thought in the theatre. Once the sawing started to go down we were all squirming in our seats, ha.
That being said 127 Hours was alright. I didn't feel like it was a masterpiece. The editing, pacing and general character development was very much done in a music video/ fast-paced style, which albeit worked with this concept, I just feel like it inhibited this film from being a classic.
The film is enjoyable, but it's not a film that will require more than one viewing to get the gist of it.
Definitely a good performance by James Franco, but not the best performance I've seen of the year. I can't take him completely seriously, maybe as a result of his earlier work, but he definitely is working toward getting some dramatic chops. Rock it, dude.

Worth checking out, it is inspiring, Danny Boyle knows how to put together a film, overall.

Sympathy for the Devil (1968)

2011-01-29T19:09:00.002-05:00

If you're looking for a clean transition between art cinema and classic rock 'n roll, look no further. A grand combination of The Rolling Stones' hit Sympathy for the Devil, and Jean-Luc Godard zany political monologues, this film really makes you scratch your head, and go huh. I can't say I enjoyed it much past the recording sessions of The Rolling Stones. I zoned out, and websurfed during the political scenes.
It was cool to watch, but probably not something I would revisit.

Knight and Day (2010)

2011-01-29T12:07:00.002-05:00

I'm not even done watching this movie and I already need to say it's shit. I was hoping for some ridiculous "crazy" scenes of Tom Cruise. Oh wait, Paul Dano showed up. Nah, he wouldn't be able to contribute enough to save this sinking ship. Weak. Only benefit to this excursion is the business I gave Bay St Video when I rented it.

Stop Making Sense (1984)

2011-01-28T21:24:00.002-05:00

I really liked this movie. David Bryne and the rest of the Talking Heads are very talented. I thought the movie was very well shot and the band's performance was really good. Byrne's crazy dancing were really cool, and I like his big suit outfit.

Overall very enjoyable.

Tron: Legacy (2010)

2011-01-01T15:23:00.002-05:00

I enjoyed this film. I saw it about a week ago, and it's not like the film particularly resonated with me, I just found it entertaining. It's the 2nd film I've seen in 3D now (the first one being Avatar, which I detested) so I'm still a lightweight when it comes to this medium. I thought the 3D was really appropriate for this film, and was used well in the story framework.

Components that stood out: Daft Punk's OST - wicked choice of group, and definitely made a point to listen to the OST before the film came out, and after watching the film.
Michael Sheen's performance as a backstabbing badass. In the same vein as Alan Rickman as Snape in Harry Potter, Sheen steals all his scenes, I only wish there was more of him.
Awesome scene with the motorcycle game - I think this was meant to be the scene that carried the film. Definitely the scene that I remember most.

Lacking Components: CGI Jeff Bridges - He looked like a friggin Benjamin Button, I hated looking at it.

Couldn't have been bothered to try and connect Legacy with the original Tron from the 80s. I thought Legacy stool by itself. I've seen parts of the original, and had no problem following Legacy with my limited knowledge of the on going story.

Cheers.

Black Swan (2010)

2010-12-19T09:13:00.002-05:00

This movie was freaky deaky, and also exceeding my expectations, which is awesome.

Cinematography was amazing. I felt the gritty camera work really brought Natalie Portman's character's inner turmoil to the forefront. Also the quality of the film was exceptional (it probably helped that I was watching a special "digital" print, or whatever it's called).

My favourite performance was Winona Ryder. She's in the film for a total of 10 minutes, but all those minutes are amazing, and I wish there was more. She really plays "crazy" well.

Overall, all performances were great, and I felt like this film had no major flaws. I definitely recommend it. I'm sure I'll want to see it again in a few months.

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

2010-12-12T20:43:00.002-05:00

I don't know how many times I've seen this film now (a decent number), but this was the first time that I had seen it in the theater, and I have to say the viewing based on this fact alone makes it a stand out screenings.

As always this movie has a profound effect on me, but each screening also has a fractional diminished effect. Truly enjoyable this screening was.

Scenes that stood out: When Dr Heywood talks to his daughter on the video phone, I had only noticed on this screening that there is a moon orbiting Heywood's head in the background (every other time I watched this film, I was focused on the daughter).

Also for the first time was able to appreciate the space traveling sequence right before the end. The visual effect are amazing, and truly meant to be experience on the big screen. Love when they intercut Dave's face randomly, ha.

It's cool that after so many years from when I first saw this film, that I can still enjoy it, and get something out of it. I know it won't be the last time I see it.

Kind Hearts & Coronets (1949)

2010-11-21T17:27:00.002-05:00

Very British, very dry. I chose it because it was labelled a black comedy. Check. Enjoyable, but because I've never been the biggest fan of British humour I didn't like it as much as I hoped. I really like how Alec Guinness played half a dozen different characters including a woman, reminded me of awesome Peter Sellers' performances. I'll be watching another Alec Guinness film "Last Holiday". I hope I like it.

Cheers!

Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage (2010)

2010-09-06T20:45:00.002-04:00

I enjoyed this film, and it really got me more interested in listening to Rush. I have not too long ago converted my mind, that Rush was a weird band, to Rush is an amazing band. As others will say Rush is different, but they take their own cues, and never sold out. The documentary portrays the band as living legends, and almost revolutionary rock'n rollers. I guess this is true. Maybe it's because I'm not that into the band, but I feel the portrayal was a little too congratulatory. But I imagine that was the purpose of the documentary to begin with.
The presentation of the story was pretty standard fare when it comes to documentaries. It doesn't discuss the band members' personal lives too much, and mostly focuses on the music, as it set out to.
I feel like more time could have been spent on illustrating their unpopular albums, in order to get a more objective view of their career, but the band probably vetoed it out.
Overall a documentary worth checking out if you want to learn more about Rush, and maybe even classic rock in general. Rush has some amazing songs, content alone makes it cool.

This Movie is Broken (2010)

2010-06-26T18:01:00.002-04:00

This was a cool movie, and keep in mind that doesn't necessarily mean it was a particularly good movie. This Movie is Broken is a tribute concert/feature film to Toronto and it's hipster native band Broken Social Scene. Now I enjoy Toronto, and Broken Social Scene is one of my favourite bands, so for me, this movie was really cool, and really enjoyable, but it's also not one that I would recommend to everyone I know and meet. It's the kind of film where you need to have an appreciation for the subject matter in order to leave the film feeling satisfied. I definitely left the film with satiation.
I guess to explain myself when I say that the film cannot be rated as particularly good, is that it's unabashedly a low-budget film, with a weak script, and an editing pace that would annoy 90% of people out there. But then again this is mostly a concert film, and then there's a love story that was kind of thrown in there to fill time/make the film more accessible to audiences, and make an excuse to shoot scenes around Toronto's trendy west side (insert gratuitous shot of The Drake Hotel).

Sex and the City 2 (2010)

2010-06-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

This movie was what it was. It was no cinematic achievement, but that was hardly what I was seeing the film for. Sex and the City 2 at the most can be seen as an extension of the lives of the characters that millions of people fell in love with during the series. The film hardly does the characters justice though, as it was more of a farce of conspicuous consumption. It was not as over-the-top as I was expecting and hoping for. I was really hoping the film would be completely illogical, and that the characters would not resemble normal human beings (as at this point, they could do anything with the Sex and the City label, and still sell seats). I think this film did what a lot of film sequels end up doing. The story is not as strong as the original film, or the original series for that matter.
I did find myself swept away in the escapism of having more luxury than you need or handle.
In a way Sex and the City 2 resembled a large budget film such as Cleopatra (1963) with Elizabeth Taylor. I can't remember if I have sat through the entire Cleopatra, but the extravagance of that film, and the superficiality that was attached to the film can be transferred onto Sex and the City. I don't find it to be a flaw if the film consciously acknowledges the ridiculousness of itself.
Sex and the City 2 isn't necessarily a horrible film, but it's not something to just walk into with complete ignorance. One should know the cultural relevance of this film, in addition to a vague understanding of the character's back story.

Iron Man 2 (2010)

2010-05-15T15:35:00.002-04:00

I was initially very excited to see this film, going into it I had mixed feelings after hearing reviews from friends.
At least the first half of the film excited me. The dynamic and cinematography of the courtroom scene was a surprising standout scene, given that there is no crazy action going on. The dynamic and push and pull tension between Stark and Potts, Stark and his nemesis, and Stark and the senator had a refreshing feel to it. I also enjoyed how this scene was shot in also a cinema verite style. The camera was fluid rather than traditional cut and paste style. I found myself really drawn into the scene. Also the scene where Mickey Rourke and Downey Jr. battle on the race track in Monaco was really cool and well paced.

Around the three-quarter mark though my attention started to wain. I really kind of gave up on a come-back when Rockwell's character is doing the public presentation of his iron man droids. It's funny because during this scene I couldn't help but think how the iron man droids could be seen as prequel weapons to James Cameron's Terminator, except Iron Man is "quirky". Where's Arnold for a cameo when you need him.
The film really fell apart when Downey and Cheadle are preparing for their battle against Rourke. It just seemed like the filmmakers at this point had run out of ideas on how to end the film, and were just looking to wrap it up in a neat package. This fight scene just didn't seem necessary.

Overall, sadly this film really isn't worth seeing. I can say the first half is enjoyable, but the ending neutralizes any recommendation I would have given to this film.

New Moon (2009)

2010-05-15T09:44:00.002-04:00

This movie was enjoyable and a crowd pleaser. I feel like I need to comment on the fact that New Moon is part of a successful series of novels turned into films that is getting a lot of positive fanfare, but a lot of criticism directly because of it's positive fanfare. For years I was a teetered elitist cineaste, which when I reflect on now, was pretty lame because I was preventing myself from participating in the grandiose of big-budget blockbusters. I would not have given New Moon a second's glace because it is part of "mass-culture", and therefore of lesser quality. But the past recent years I've been able to at least respect what these big films do, at least for the industry; films like New Moon carry the industry, and in a way are assisting the smaller budget, art-house films, that I for a short time exclusively associated myself with.

I know it's a valid argument that big-budget films are detrimental to small art cinema projects because they take funding away from filmmakers who see cinema as an art form over the fantasy spectacle that has become our dominant cinema experience. But at the same time you need to have a contrast in quality and values in order to fully appreciate what both forms have the offer (and all films in between).

I think New Moon is a good example of a bigger-budget film, that takes advantage of it's mainstream popularity to make good money at the box office. I think the main reason I was deflected from blockbusters for that time-span was because I wasn't acknowledging cinema as a money-making industry. At the time I could only see cinema as an art-form that was supposed to expand your mind and reveal soul-defining revelations. So during that time I did see a good amount of films that followed that criteria, but in the ends, there's not as much "enjoyment" from that type of cinema.

To get back to New Moon as a single entity, separate for the spectrum of movie blockbusters, it was easy to watch. It was digestible, and had good characters and a good story line working for it. I really like the contrast between Bella two lovers; Cold-blooded vs hot-blooded. I think that, even though the contrast is very obvious and seems contrived, it suits the story it is serving.
New Moon is worth seeing if you're willing to invest just over 2 hours in something that's not profound, but decently entertaining. I personally had to pause it a few times over an afternoon. Cheers.

Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)

2010-04-17T10:36:00.003-04:00

This film just reinforced how much I dislike Michael Moore films. Besides Roger & Me, all of his films are horribly one-sided, narrow-minded, and unintelligent. He seems to be getting worse the more he makes.
This movie looks like it was just slapped together at the last minute; he even includes scenes from Roger & Me as filler.
His most common tactic of pursuing interviews for his film is he walks up to big buildings with a loudspeaker, and asks for the chairmen to come out. Dude, if you were a professional and had any self-integrity you would go through the proper channels to arrange these interviews.
He is trying to make it seem like all the important people are ignoring him because they are greedy, but really he likely never called any of them, and he knows he's not going to get a respond from them because he doesn't want a response from them.
Michael Moore presents himself as the "common man", but he comes across as a really "stupid man" who does no research, and thinks he can convince his viewers to change the world by running around the outside of a building with police tape.
Real documentarians actually do research and organize their interviews. You would never see Errol Morris doing what Michael Moore does.

Greenberg (2010)

2010-04-05T14:21:00.002-04:00

I rather enjoyed this film. I have taken a shine to Noah Baumbach, and feel like I learn something new about the human condition every time I watch one of his films. At the same time every time I watch one of his films I feel recognizably irritable because the characters are really realistic, so it feels too true to real like.
Ben Stiller plays a 41 year old layabout, who has no direction in life and no plan ahead of him. He seems to leach off of friends and family, who are all very motivated, and he lives in the past. My interpretation is not that the character is a slacker, it's that he can't decide what he wants. It seems like his whole life he's on the edge of making a decision, but does not have the will to make that decision. Ben Stiller's performance is alright, but it's out of his range.
His love interest played by Greta Gerwig is someone who is a little more solid, but she is still in a funky transitional phase of her life. We learn that she is just getting out of a long-term relationship, so she is suffering emotionally, and Greta exhibits this very well in her performance. I enjoyed her character because I can somewhat identify with her lack of ability to ask for what she wants. She is definitely a pushover, and she doesn't change throughout the film, because anyone who has this trait knows that it is pretty hard to get over this behaviour, because it is comfortable.
Like all Baumbach's films, this films portray very awkward characters, who have trouble expressing themselves to other people. For this reason, they can sometimes be difficult to watch. Regardless, Greenberg is worth seeing. It's easier to watch than some of the other Baumbach films. It also may be the first film Jennifer Jason Leigh doesn't take her show her boobs. In my opinion Margot at the Wedding was the hardest to watch.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

2010-03-12T08:56:00.002-05:00

I didn't mind this film. It was The Never Ending Story meets The Wizard of Oz; Dr Parnassus meets Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. Going into the film I had heard more negative reviews than positive. I think this version of Wizard of Oz needs to be regarded as a separate entity from the cartoon. Just like Tim Burton's version of Charlie and the Chocolate factory is quite different than the Gene Wilder version.
It also took me 4/5 of the duration of the film to realize that this Alice in Wonderland is more of a Alice: Part Deux. The character is 13 years older than the cartoon version.
What I found strong about this film was the visuals. While heavy on the CGI, the overall effect was pretty cool. This is the latest 3D film to be released. For budgetary reasons, and preference I went for the 2D, but I can see how the film would offer a lot to the 3D audience.
I don't think I can recommend this film because it is very much a Disney movie, and the PG rating shines very bright. Unless you premeditate an open mind walking into this film, you will probably be disappointed.

Dr Strangelove or: How I learned to Stop Worrying, and Love the Bomb (1964)

2010-03-10T15:27:00.002-05:00

This is definitely one of my favourite films of all time. Just everything about it is awesome. The soundtrack, the acting, the cinematography, and the script.
I've seen this film a number of times now (as I own it), and every time it rocks my socks.
My favourite scene is when Peter Sellers as the president has a conversation with the Russian president over the phone. You never hear or see the Russian president because the entire scene is from Peter Sellers point of view. So good I have to now quote the entire monologue:

[to Kissoff] Hello?... Uh... Hello D- uh hello Dmitri? Listen uh uh I can't hear too well. Do you suppose you could turn the music down just a little?... Oh-ho, that's much better... yeah... huh... yes... Fine, I can hear you now, Dmitri... Clear and plain and coming through fine... I'm coming through fine, too, eh?... Good, then... well, then, as you say, we're both coming through fine... Good... Well, it's good that you're fine and... and I'm fine... I agree with you, it's great to be fine... a-ha-ha-ha-ha... Now then, Dmitri, you know how we've always talked about the possibility of something going wrong with the Bomb... The *Bomb*, Dmitri... The *hydrogen* bomb!... Well now, what happened is... ahm... one of our base commanders, he had a sort of... well, he went a little funny in the head... you know... just a little... funny. And, ah... he went and did a silly thing... Well, I'll tell you what he did. He ordered his planes... to attack your country... Ah... Well, let me finish, Dmitri... Let me finish, Dmitri... Well listen, how do you think I feel about it?... Can you *imagine* how I feel about it, Dmitri?... Why do you think I'm calling you? Just to say hello?... *Of course* I like to speak to you!... *Of course* I like to say hello!... Not now, but anytime, Dmitri. I'm just calling up to tell you something terrible has happened... It's a *friendly* call. Of course it's a friendly call... Listen, if it wasn't friendly... you probably wouldn't have even got it... They will *not* reach their targets for at least another hour... I am... I am positive, Dmitri... Listen, I've been all over this with your ambassador. It is not a trick... Well, I'll tell you. We'd like to give your air staff a complete run-down on the targets, the flight plans, and the defensive systems of the planes... Yes! I mean i-i-i-if we're unable to recall the planes, then... I'd say that, ah... well, ah... we're just gonna have to help you destroy them, Dmitri... I know they're our boys... All right, well listen now. Who should we call?... *Who* should we call, Dmitri? The... wha-whe, the People... you, sorry, you faded away there... The People's Central Air Defense Headquarters... Where is that, Dmitri?... In Omsk... Right... Yes... Oh, you'll call them first, will you?... Uh-huh... Listen, do you happen to have the phone number on you, Dmitri?... Whe-ah, what? I see, just ask for Omsk information... Ah-ah-eh-uhm-hm... I'm sorry, too, Dmitri... I'm very sorry... *All right*, you're sorrier than I am, but I am as sorry as well... I am as sorry as you are, Dmitri! Don't say that you're more sorry than I am, because I'm capable of being just as sorry as you are... So we're both sorry, all right?... All right.

So many other things I could go into detail. I will save them for my next screening/criticism. See it.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)

2010-03-10T14:47:00.002-05:00

I've seen bits and pieces of this film so many times, but I believe this was the first time I saw it in it's entirety. It is truly a great film. I found it hard to finish however, because of the tragedy of Jack Nicholson's character. Watching him up-close go through electro-shocks, was painful because it was so realistic.
The film really makes you question what is sanity. Jack Nicholson went into the institution clinically sane, but did not make it out alive because he tried to control his environment too much.
That aside, the film is very well acted. I love the supporting roles played by Danny DeVito, Christopher Lloyd, and Vincent Schiavelli.
Definitely a movie to check out, as it is a quintessential classic.

Deliverance (1972)

2010-03-10T14:43:00.002-05:00

My second time seeing Deliverance, I got a lot more out of it than the first time. The story is really strong, and the chemistry between Burt Reynolds and Jon Voight is second to none.
What I like about this film, is that it has the feel of a low-budget film, but has the quality of something of higher value. They're obviously out shooting the film in the wild, with minimal luxuries, but they come out with remarkable results.
I recommend this film, and even though some scenes are harsh to watch, it at least never becomes too graphic.

The Blind Side (2009)

2010-02-27T21:15:00.002-05:00

This is the movie that at this year's Oscars is the wild-card nomination for Best Picture. I initially agreed with the consensus of critics who chastised the Academy for including The Blind Side in the running. But post viewing the movie, and some logical contemplation, I can see why it was included in the running.
First off, my opinion of The Blind Side is, it's bland. Let's call it the Bland Side. The short truth about this film, is there's nothing too it. It's very straight forward. A rich white family from the right side of town, take in a black youth from the wrong side of the city. He becomes an outstanding student and athlete and the white family feel morally warm and fuzzy. No surprises here.
And for this, the reason the Academy picked this film can be extrapolated. This film is very accessible to the majority of Americans. Sandra Bullock's character is Sarah Palin, with a bit of a different accent. She's a strong-willing, hard-working family woman and a card-carrying Republican. Whereas, the Academy is known for their liberal, at-times pretentious, thought-provoking films.
I'm not defending The Blind Side, but it represents a huge portion of America, and I think it deserves to be considered. I kind of like the idea that a paint-by-numbers film can be included as a nomination. And I've always thought that in order to really enjoy the thought-provoking, at times pretentious art film, you need to soak in a couple mindless saps.
I recommend this film if you plan on ragging it, because trashing a film to high heavens is lame, if you haven't even taken the time to watch at least half of it. Stream it, yo.

Crazy Heart (2009)

2010-02-21T21:22:00.002-05:00

I thought this was a strong film: well acted, well shot, and well told.
Jeff Bridges is very convincing and natural as a fading country singer who's trying to get his wings back.
What I liked about this film was that it didn't go overboard in how it was done. I was sad when Jeff's character lost Maggie's kid because it really showed how he was not going to be able to turn his life around until he sobered up. I also liked the idea that Jeff and his former musician buddy, played by Colin Farrell obviously have so bad blood between them, but because of their situations, they are able to make enough peace that they are able to help one another, because they do have a bond from the past.
I recommend this film, it was cool to watch, but it doesn't necessarily need to be seen on the big screen to get the full effect. It's able to story, so DVD is sufficient.

October 2005 - March 2006

2010-02-21T21:07:00.004-05:00

Unbeknown, before I created my blogger blog, I was posting film reviews on Myspace for about 6 months. All together I posted 52 unique reviews, most of them pretty crude compared to my current style. I didn't go through all of them myself, but I found it cool how my criticisms were pretty consistent (and I actually don't recognize myself a lot of the time, even though I overall agree with what I said back then, crazy). I decided I wanted to have everything at least in one place, so here's what I wrote back during my last year of undergrad, enjoy!

Corpse Bride (2005)
Hey yo, this is my first time posting a blog, I figured I'd give it a whirl, who knows, maybe it'll become a habit.
I saw Corpse Bride last night, I thought it was grand. Everything was really well done, it was great. I would have liked it to be longer, but I'll take 80 minutes over 120 minutes o'crap.
The voice of the maggot / town crier (Enn Reitel) was great. I think his characters stole their scenes, no question. When the crier is shouting that victor married a corpse bride, the inlaws go, "oh it's just the town crier, he probably is just low on things to cry about", and the maggot was funny as the Corpse Bride's conscience.
The soundtrack was also great (guess who will be downloading it )
I could say more, but this is my 3rd time trying to post this damn blog, fuck, i keep messing it up
Thanks for reading, luv ya
JooBoo

It’s all Gone Pete Tong (2004)
Hey, so I watched It's All Gone Pete Tong last night. I have to say that it was a flake. I say it's a flake just because I didn't get what I was expecting, and believe that the film strayed away from the documentary style, but still tried, with unsuccessful results to include them. They used testimonials from the characters to give it a documentary flare, but the majority of the film was shot in a comedy/drama style. The love story with the deaf teacher took up too much of the narrative, I thought. Even though the film got my emotionally, with the issue of losing one's hearing, I feel that overall the love story was in the narrative too much. Many scenes were just fluff I found, and could easily be taken out, without the story changing.
The length of the film was good, 90 minutes, and the soundtrack was good as well.
Downside is that it does not meet the same level of originality as Fubar, but it's worth checking out if you have an interest in what it takes to be a D.J.
Other films such as 24 Hour Party People, has a more raw edge to them, and stand out better in the crowd of films. It's All Gone, Pete Tong, is nothing extraordinary

La règle du jeu (1939)
I find it hard to comment on La Regle du Jeu. It's acclaimed as one of the best movies in the history of filmmaking and I'm finding it difficult to make an educated personal response to it.
First of all the story was good. There was richness in character development, and I found the love betrayal stories good. The mise en scene was also sophisticated. I didn't understand why so many men were in love with Christine, she's a friggin socialite, she's going to tell any man with money that she "loves them" geez. I blame her that Andre was killed. (maybe women are the cause for the destruction of man, hahaha). I'm sure Octave would have found a lovely lady if he only had more self-confidence, and if I had a hot war pilot hero fly over the atlantic just for me, I'd show up for his landing, can I get a HELLS YA?
For anyone who hasn't seen this film it was made by Jean Renoir right before WWII began. There are many political and historical references made in the film, which give it extra layers for peeps like me in film studies to rip apart and wrap up in neat little packages that we call essay, groan. Renoir is only one of the most famous french directors in the history of filmmaking, so give him some props.
My initial reaction to the film is that it is ok. I didn't find anything weak about it, besides the shitty print I rented and the bad subtitling job that was done. I would like to screen a copy of the Criterion edition one day, if I find one to rent.
I definitely recommend this film for anyone who is interested in getting a well rounded back ground in film. I agree that the film's complexity and historical significance makes it a very important film, but for someone who is looking for some simple entertainment, it's not the best pick for a Friday night flick. I give this film an 8 out of 10 for now. Even though I said Christine was a bitch, her character still makes for good cinema.
The scenes of the rabbit hunt can be a bit disturbing, I had a pet rabbit once, and witness it die, so it was kind of sad in that respect to revisit it. All that taken the scenes are still important for the film because it shows how the characters have a disregard for creatures below them on the food chain.
I could say more, but I'll leave that for later

Home Alone (1990)
Hey y'all,
I haven't watched any new movies lately, but I had an awesome time this evening watching "Home Alone" with my roommates. Of course all of us have seen it a gajillian times, of course we can recite most if not all the diologue, and of course it's corny as hell, but its soo good for those reasons. Everyone needs to watch a movie from when they were young every once and a while to remember what it was like to be carefree, and with a cast including Catherine O'Hara (woot) John Candy (woot) and Kieran Culkin (that's right Macaulay's bro steals a scene or two getting his face mashed in by a chair, and pretending to be a bed-wetter, bahaha) who wouldn't skip an hour and a half of clean fun; from start to finish.
This flick came out in 90' so anyone in my age range can definitely identify with Kevin, come on, jumping on your parents' bed when you were 8, who didn't do that at least a dozen times!
It's hilarious watching it now, my roommates and I were more laughing at the ridiculously irrational Harry and Marv use to rob the house, than anything. a conversation between them
Harry - they're loaded with jewelry, stereos, and VCRs
Marv - Yeah, and TOYS!
You're a thief, you go by the name "wet bandits" your name is Marv and you're concerned about stealing the people's toys
And who would climb out of a second floor room to catch the kid, when you're there to rob the house in the first place, Geez
Home Alone definitely brings people together, if you think it's lame and corny you watch it so you can make fun of it. I watched it last year with my dad, it was a hoot. The lack of a political message also makes this a good pic (yeah It's a wonderful life is a classic, but it's still a very raa raa lets support our troops flick...see if you can find the lincoln/ napoleon figures they put in strategically, I saw them) no need to write "notes" during this one.
So yeah I recommend during this holiday season give some peeps or family a ring, order up a tasty, warm cheese pizza, and have a ball.
Julia, one feisty cat

The Thin Blue Line (1988)
The Thin Blue Line was a fair film. I have to admit it's been on my conscience for 3 years to see this flick. Ever since I watched Dr. Death in Intro to film, Errol Morris documentary style has appealed to be. Side note I recommend Dr. Death and Morris' latest films Fog of War, both are of excellent taste. I like Morris' style because he gives all his subjects space to say what is on their mind. He portrays them all with dignity and respect, ever the real wackos that he sometimes talks to.
So I took the documentary class, thinking there'd be a couple of films I've been meaning to see, unfortunately most of them looked lame from the get go, but some of them were good. The Thin Blue Line was the last film we watched, which kind of irked me, because it was the only one I really wanted to see. Today during the screening because I was tired (about school and life) I was fidgeting in my seat and I couldn't enjoy it as much as I liked. I even sat in the front row so that I could "enjoy" the film more.
So yeah, for someone who's intrigued with what Errol has to offer, I say take the plunge! The Thin Blue Line is one of his earlier features so it shows how he's working with his style.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Line, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
I have mixed feelings about this film. On one hand the visuals were good, CGIs was used properly, in my opinion there was a good dose of fiction/fantasy...but on the other hand, gawd I feel like I walked out of a feature length bible studies class. Granted I walked in with that impression in my head, so the symbols seemed more obvious.
I was on a side note happy to see a performance from Jim Broadbent, that guy does great scatter-brain performances (are they performances? jk).
The acting of the children was pretty horrid, especially little Lucy. I thought the character Susan was a bit of a bitch, either that or she was on her period...quick get her some turkish delight!
The movie was overall a corn-fest, but I enjoyed watching it in a packed theatre where people were comfortable laughing at the cheese.
I personally don't recommend this film because I didn't see anything extraordinary about it. It was easy to digest and easy to forget.

Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005)
I enjoyed this movie, it was the second time I saw it and it served just as well as the first time around. I think this representation of the Douglas Adam's book was better than my expectations. I actually thought it would be crappy, and feel forced, but I was surprised.
It was a silly, fun movie, and it was very very tolerable, in fact i enjoyed the cheese factor, so cheesy makes me crave KD! sweet!
Performances by Sam Rockwell as Zaphods and Alan Rickman as the voice of Marvin cut me up, soo funny. There was definitely a good energy in this film, and I think it really shows.
It's a Disney flick, and that at first made me hesitate to watch it, but I didn't feel any stigma attached that made me recoil in sunshine cheer the majority of Disney's library gives me.
Sillyness is evident throughout the film, from the beginning when Mos Def shows up pushing a grocery cart and takes the Arthur Dent character out for a drink as the world is ending...to John Malcovich's hi-larious cameo as a torso with electro-beetle legs.
I recommend this film, the only weakness I found was the corny "there's no place like home" theme. While this gives me a warm and cozy feeling inside, I can't help but think that this idea has been done way to many times...and it takes away from the sillyness of the film.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
This movie is crazy! There are moments where I laugh til I cry: "Get down on your knees and tell me you love me!", moments where I want to commit Kevin because he seriously as issues for a kid, come on putting gas in the toilet, lighting Harry's head on fire than making him put his head in the toilet...in the background all you hear Kevin say: "YES!" with a big grin on his face and electrocuting Marv like that with the sink...Kev is a lil s.o.b, imo. There are moments when I wonder if Mr Duncan gives all the little boys and girls turtle doves, because he says it some reverently, as if he gives his heart away to all the children (ok that's probably pushing it).
Overall, this flick flows pretty smoothly. Like the first Home Alone, I can probably recite all the dialogue + song fade ins...But usually the story just seems TOO coincidental, The Wet Bandits are in New York at the exact same time and place as Kevin, and for that matter The Wet Bandits were able to break out of prison, sure...can we say suspended belief?
Who didn't want one of those talking gadgets where you can embarrass your Uncle Frank in the shower, haha...I think most people know how to do "The Cool Jerk!"
I can say I didn't like Catherine O'Hara's haircut in this film, she looks like she's on crack because her eyes are also looked they've been bleached, if that's possible. I think Kieran should have gone more screen time, I remember seeing him in only what ONE scene.
Overall though HA2 does a fair follow up to HA1, I recommend it, plus the idea that you can get separated from your family with exclusive access to their credit cards, that's a pretty sweet deal!
Holla!

A Day at the Races (1937)
For a Marx brothers film, I thought this film did not have enough slap-stick. There were many scenes where non-characters would step in and do 10 minute song and dance scene, I did not see a point of it. How is a ballet performance contributing to a Marx brothers film, other than to contrast the delicacy of it, but really I thought it too up time and energy
What I loved about this film is there was an awesome piano performance from Chico Marx, that guy was talented...he played a solid 5 minute piece, and played it so effortlessly as if it's second nature, major wow. Then it was followed by a smooth harp performance by Harpo Marx, I guess the kid's a natural.
Groucho was alright in this flick, he didn't have as many funny lines as in their film Duck Soup which made me laugh until I cried. Margaret Dumont also I found was only fair in this film. I think there was too much going on in this film for me to laugh, at least on the first viewing
oh well, better luck next time.

Meatballs (1979)
I have to say this film was pretty authentic when it comes to over night camp experiences. I enjoyed it. One thing that I found strange was the feeling I got that something tramatic was going to happen, whenever the depressed kid had a scene...I always had the feeling he was getting ready to hear bad news or that he was going to abuse himself.
There were some great scenes with Bill Murray, he carried the film without a doubt.
After this film I'm ready for the summer.

Giant (1956)
The best scene in my opinion was the last one. In it Rock Hudson and Elizabeth Taylor's characters are reflecting on their lives. They have been married to one another for many years. They are looking at their two grand children and reflecting on how they came about. The chemistry between the two characters was sweet. Elizabeth Taylor's character is telling Rock that she was proud of him when he stood up to the racist restaurant owner, which had just happened. My two favourite lines from the scene were Rock Hudson saying "I don't need to take it from no sheep" when the sheep bahs at him, hahaha and then later after Elizabeth's character explains why she loves Rock's character, Rock goes "I don't think I'll ever understand you" then the movie ends, ah, le sigh The movie was long in general, but actually quite captivating. James Dean plays a great rich prick. As James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson's characters aged only their hair seemed to gather baby powder to show their aging, but not of them had wrinkles, I think they didn't want to know what they would actually look like, that or makeup wasn't advanced that far in 1956. I recommend this film if you like watching actors together that you wouldn't normally see in a film together...Dennis Hopper plays Rock Hudson's son, crazy! They had a couple confrontations, check it out.

A Night at the Opera (1935)
This Marx brother's film was quite better than "A Day at the Races" that I watched a week ago. A Night at the Races definitely had better comedic energy, one of my theories being because the Allan Jones didn't have as large of part. My favourite scene is when the 3 Marx brothers and Allan Jones are having breakfast right as the police are trying to catch them. Harpo (my favourite of the brothers) puts a pancake on a teacup, hands it to Chico, but Chico says "no thanks I don't like the cupcakes" haha. The rest of the scene has the Marx brothers and Allan Jones running between two connecting rooms from the policeman...there are many hijinks that take place, take my word. Chico and Harpo play their instruments again, it was good, not as long as in A Day at the Races, but still cool. Some of the lines from Groucho weren't that funny, and overall I think Harpo is the funniest Marx brother, he never says anything, but his facial expressions are GOLD! When they are on the boat and the brothers are hungry Harpo's face while they're getting food was priceless, his mouth was wide open and his eyes were round saucers. Check this one out if you want to pick between it and A Day at the Races.

Family Plot (1976)
This was definitely one of the weakest Alfred Hitchcock films I've ever seen, it was also the last film he directed. It's not that it was a bad movie to say, but Hitchcock is a director that most people have a level of expectancy when they watched them. Of course Hitchcock used all his familiar cinema elements that are signature to his style: the weak blonde woman, the greed of the main characters, a conspiracy where the audiences knows more than the characters, all leading to a suspenseful climax. But this film was only moderate with presenting these elements to the audience. I felt bored at times because I felt like it was 15 minutes too long. I think this film would have worked better if is was condensed into around the 90 minute mark. I think Hitchcock was lacking in his cinematic genius that is so better illustrated in his earlier work. I want to check out "Frenzy" which was the film he released before "Family Plot" to see if his style diminishing was a trend. I think it's also possible that Hitchcock didn't have the same energy he once had. I think it's also possible that he was trying to cater to a mainstream audience and decided to dilute his plot devices. It was still entertaining to watch

Designing Woman (1957)
It wasn't bad. Lauren Bacall was too fierce of a woman sometimes and it was hard to believe that she was weak when her character fell over a few times. What I found interesting about this film was that Lauren Bacall's character had a hard time trusting her husband. I guess it was hard for her to take a leap of faith, well honey, take a leap or I'm going to push you! The story of this film started out with Gregory Peck's character which leads the audience to believe that he is the main character, but as the film develops Lauren Bacal's character takes over some what. My favourite part of the film was when Lauren Bacall's dancer friend beat up all the mob bully's when before Gregory Peck said he looked like a pansey, he sure showed him. Another good performance was from the character Maxy. Maxy has a couple internal monologues that were more entertaining than most of the film. I though Maxy was grossly underrated.

Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)
I enjoyed this film. Visually it was great, the composition kept my attention and the lighting tried to make the most with variety. I like watching black and white contemporary films from time to time. I find it's a choice the director has to think about before taking on, because it creates a level all its own. People obviously don't see in black and white and watching a black and white film adds a dimension for the viewer because it adds more into escapism. phew that was a long thought. The acting was also pretty good. I enjoyed the performances by Robert Downy Jr and Patricia Clarkson as a couple hiding their marriage from their employer so they don't lose their jobs. Jeff Daniels performance was also noteworthy. I have things I want to say about George Clooney, he definite tries to be Mr Smarty Pants. My thought on his performance and every other performance he does is a reflection of him voguing like a thinking man. Like Jim Carrey practiced his funny faces, I really think Clooney practiced making his profound thought and gestures. The guy can be pretty smug. His sense of humour sometimes reminds me of my dad's, someone who is comfortable and established in their profession and feels stable so he takes witty jabs at people around him. I could go on. I think Clooney's star persona is worth looking at. The flow of the film was pretty smooth, I didn't have any problems with it. I felt it was too slow at times when the newsmen were brainstorming or waiting around for a response to one of their pieces. I think this film made a good effort at capturing the attitude during the Mccarthy era, but the way it was wrapped up so easily at the end with the downfall of Mccarthy it seemed them didn't do the issue justice. I say check it out if you're interested in corruption and politics, but Clooney takes a pretty light stance so it feels like it's only doing a surface lever reading. I hope that wasn't too long.

How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)
This was a fun movie. Movies from the 50s seem to be hitting my sweet spot lately (that and there's nothing else I feel like renting from Blockbuster).I can't help but laugh at all the pastels, the huge ass appartments three women get in New Year (jealous), and the almost carefree attitude that is captured. They seem like films that are completely unrealistic and phony, but that's what keeps me going back for more, because it's Hi-larious. Marilyn Monroe as the dumb blonde is so funny, in this movie she refuses to wear her glasses so she constantly is tripping over things or banging into walls, then she just shrugs it off poses and walks on. Betty Grable is also great, her character is dead straight with the man she first dates. While her friends play with the question of asking their date if they have a wife already Betty flat out goes "So are you married?" *laughs*Lauren Bacall is a friggin maneater, I don't enjoy her characters too much, they're selfish in a conscious way (while Marilyn and Betty are just ignorant, so you can't blame them). Lauren's character is the only one that almost doesn't marry for love, lame. But it could be because her character was emotionally hurt in the past and she didn't want to have bad feelings again. This is a good chick flick. The best parts are with Marilyn and Betty because they have great comic timing, while Lauren is like a stick in the mud, in my opinion.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
I was somewhat disappointed with this instalment of Harry Potter. I felt like the film rushed through the plot so that they could cover a lot of ground. I think personally they should have broken up this book into 2 parts, like what they did with Kill Bill. They probably could have made a lot more money if they did a spring release for the first half and the winter release for the second half. It also would have got people in with the suspense. Because of all the cutting there's an awful gap in the storyline in the middle during the school ball...I'll just say the characters were all sitting with one another then in the next shot they're scattered around the room and teen drama unfolds without much explanation. I missed my Snape in this movie too. Alan Rickman's voice is so despondent and bitter, it just makes me giddy...I enjoyed this film during the two 5 minute scenes they allowed Snape to talk, there there dear. My favourite shot was at the beginning; all the characters are walking up a mountain side at dawn and the camera, while it's shot at knee level, catches their silhouettes against the sun, pretty good for a kids movie, I don't remember any stand out shots after that. Overall the film was entertaining and is worth checking out, because there was a lot of action versus story, someone who hasn't seen all the previous HP films can keep up.

Harvey (1950)
Harvey is a theatre production that they adapted for the screen in 1950. It shows through how the film is presented. First there is not much composition variety, the shots are mainly static and neutral and the there isn't a lot of importance put on the setting of the scene. And second the story relies on the dialogue between the characters to move the story along. Harvey is a fair film, I enjoyed it but I also didn't find it to be anything too special. I would have liked more attention put on the cinematography elements of the film, maybe different angles to make it seem that Jimmy Stewart is actually talking to a giant bunny rabbit, but my impression is they wanted to do a straight from stage to screen adaptation, probably not much was changed in the translation. The pacing was smooth and the casting was well done. Jimmy Stewart plays a gentle bumbling everyman with pizzaz (that's right, it's right up his alley), but his passiveness and stuttering can sometimes get on my nerves...spit it out Jimmy, sometime this year! Check out Harvey though if you're interested in a good feeling, good natured story the whole family can enjoy.

Fantastic Four (2005)
This movie was what I expected, a summer blockbuster, but there was one element that took me by surprise. There was a subplot with The Thing where his fiancé breaks up with him after seeing his mutation followed by his emotional breakdown. I thought this was such a sad element to the plot and it added a layer to the film...So that's one, two....two layers, not too shabby. The rest of the movie was limp, the special effects could have been way better and I would have been cool if they had more fight scenes, or urban wreckage scenes. I thought it was dumb that Jessica Alba and her brother character were scientist, they didn't no jack!The script was horrible also, the lines were something a grade 2 would make up for one of their plays, and that's being generous.The bad guy Von Doom wasn't that bad, he wasn't the best villain either, I would have liked the tension to rise a little more between Doom and the Four. I felt like nothing in the plot ever got a chance to develop. The love story between Reed and Sue was weak also, I didn't see any chemistry between them.I don't recommend this movie if you're looking for something bold, this is just a run of the mill type film.

Kids in the Hall: Brain Candy (1996)
Brain Candy was a fair film. I liked it's message: you can't be happy all the time, so just deal with periodic sadness. Brain Candy was disappointing in terms of slapstick. I think that, because Kids in the Hall are used to the sketch comedy framework, that it was difficult for them to translate their humour on the big screen (as the majority of SNL features are hella lame). The film had all the charm that the sketches The Kids in the Hall offer, men dressing up as women is one of their strengths, it's funny, but gets repetitive after half a dozen occurrences.
The film was shot in T. I thought it was cool seeing Yonge street in the background of a lot of their shots. (as soon as you see the Sam the Record Man lights all bets are off!).
The length of the film, 88 minutes, was good, anything more than 100 minutes would have dragged on. I think the way the film ended was good for what they were working with. Also the budget being low seemed to fit the film.
In essence, this film was decent, it did not get on my nerves at any part, so it was kind of enjoyable.

Suicide Kings (1997)
I thought this movie was great! Christopher Walken, Denis Leary gave their signature acting, which I feel were strengths. The film was a balance between a formula Hollywood film, and something profound and unique, it's really cool. Not many films, in my opinion, can strike this balance, the film is gold when it does.
So many human emotions are presented while the plot is unfolding, that's the genius behind this film. Christopher Walken, who plays the mob leader, has encounters with each of the young men, he teaches them all lessons about life, especially about how it is important to read your opponent before they have a chance to read you. I'd say this is evidence of borderline art cinema. Granted the cinematography doesn't indulge the audience in terms of composition, the character development is where this film is at. I loved when the film would expand on the back stories that brought all the characters to this point in their lives, I found it really enriched the connection the audience feels toward the characters. Knowing more about a characters motivations definitely brings more life to a film. Many times I didn't know which character to believe.
When I think about it this film had many characteristics similar to a Shakespearean drama, it's pretty cool.
I definitely recommend this film, it had layers of human drama, but it was able to create it to be very accessible to audiences, check it out!

Take the Money and Run (1969)
I thought this film was kind of weak, it didn't have much of a spark that did anything for me. It's the 2nd film Woody Allen directed, I was expecting something with raw self-indulgence. Mind you there was some self-indulgence, there wasn't much that appealed to me. Woody Allen plays a robber, who always gets caught. Somehow in the middle of this he hooks up with a beautiful woman and they get married, I don't understand why this girl stayed with him. The film seems illogical at many times.
I was glad that the movie was only 85 minutes long, it stopped before I could get bored with it, hahaha.

Casino Royale (1967)
Casino Royale is a spoof of the early James Bond movies, by reputation I was hoping this would be a side splitting flick. I thought it was a pretty good film, it wasn't spectacular, but it definitely had some quality moments. At the beginning it was funny when they made fun of all the lame gadgets that Bond uses: the poison flower, the flame throwing pen and so on.
My favour scene was when Bond's daughter went to Germany to infiltrate an evil organization and the interior decorating was all in an expressionistic style, it was hilarious. There was also a scene where representations from different countries think they're at war because they're shown footage of a battle and they get all geared up for action, crazy.
The casting was great, Orson Welles, Peter Sellers, Woody Allen, Jean Paul Belmondo, but they didn't get as much screen time as they were advertised, TEASE!
I say check it out for the campiness at least, the special effect are so cheesy and low budget it's hard to tell if they did it intentionally or because they didn't have enough funds.

Drugstore Cowboy (1989)
I have to say I was disappointed with this film. I had known about this film for years, and when I finally rent it, I get shafted! Gus Van Sant, what happened?
Granted this film came out before My Own Private Idaho (which I severely compared it to) it just didn't stack up.
The acting was weak, the quality in the composition was also weak. I also can't say that I was into the resolution of the narrative. It seemed interesting, a bunch of junkies robbing drugstore so that they can score drugs, the execution just wasn't there.
I resented Matt Dillon's wife in the film because she was a piece of trash through the entire thing. Matt Dillon tried to clean up his act, but ends up being the one who dies, I guess that's a realistic portrayal, but it's undeserved.

Suspicion (1941)
I thought Suspicion was pretty good. There were some elements of it that didn't sit well with me. For one Cary Grant is a great actor who plays virtuous, humble characters, and I found it hard seeing him try to be in the position of a suspicious murderer. I think he's fantastic in an Affair to Remember, His Girl Friday and others; he's one of my favourite actors from the classical period but seeing him play a potentially nasty character gave me a sour taste in my heart.
Jane Fontaine as the wife who suspects him put on a good performance, she was good in Rebecca, another Hitchcock film as well.
The flow of the film was also pretty good. It kept my attention and didn't have any slow moments. But I think what is stopping me from saying this was a fantastic film is that, while I was watching it I was comparing it to all of Hitchcock's classic films that I have known for years, there was nothing bold and unique that I found this film had in comparison to the other Hitchcock films. Granted, however, this film certainly holds it's own and I definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a subtle drama/thriller.
I think more could have been done with the script, most of the emotions were made to me interpreted from the actor's performances, which were good, but a stronger script would have added more.

Blood Simple (1983)
I thought this film was alright. I'm personally not a big fan of horror/thrillers because they don't offer much in terms of studying the human condition. That being said, I think Blood Simple does well in this genre, it is subtle and really got my pulses going; when Frances stabbed that guy in the hand I thought MY blood was going to curd.
My favourite 2 shots were: 1 in the bar when the camera tracks along the bar counter and smoothly goes over the man sleeping face down on the counter, it was very well executed. My other favourite shot was when Frances and her lover are having a bit of a miscommunication in her apartment; the shot is taken from across the street outside. When the lights are on in Frances' apartment the shot looks like it's homaging a Hitchcock thriller, I thought that was cool.
Overall, I found the film to be kind of amateurish, it was enjoyable, but since it's not really my cup of tea I don't see myself watching it again anytime soon.
I recommend it to fans of this genre, take the plung!

The Parent Trap (1961)
This film is cute in the old-school kids movie cute. Hayley Mills was both funny and annoying. I think it was the overdose of saccharine they gave Hayley during the production that did it.
Parent Trap is the kind of movie you loved to watch when you were a kid, but then when you watch them as a young adult/adult you can't help but laugh at how ridiculous it is. One of the lines I'll always laugh at is the camp director saying "I got a cake in my hands" then lifting the cake to only have it fall in her face 5 seconds later, haha, looks like the cake is no longer in your hands.
It's also the kind of movie that revolves around the big C word: Coincidence. The whole movie is one coincidence after another: Oh geez, the twins just happen to go to the same camp one year when they live on opposite sides of the country! Good golly the Dad just so happens to be engaged the same year and it provokes the twins to cook up a zany scheme to break that up and get their parents back together!
It's fun to watch films like this every once and a while because they're sooo smooth, everything just goes exactly how it's supposed to, but after 2 or 3 films like this in a row I'd just want to gag myself with a spoon.
It's kind of ridiculous to think that the parents will live happily ever after, after their second marriage, they're bound to hit a few more bumps; the twins won't be living with them forever, but maybe it was having kids that ruined the marriage? (making a mental note) Parent Trap: The Empty Nest, coming a theatre near you!

The Celebration (1998)
I thought this film was phenomenal! The story was great, the cinematography was innovative and it didn't over do it, in the process.
This film revolves around a family getting together to celebrate a father's 60th birthday, like all families this one has it's own case of drama. The tension gets pretty intense when one of the sons, during his speech, reveals to the whole family that their father used to rape him and his sister when they were younger and kept it a secret from everyone for most of his life.
The film was shot using the Dogme 95 manifesto, with handheld cameras and with no props, I thought it was executed magnificently. I've seen a few other Dogme 95 films, but this one rates as one of the best.
The flow of the film was so natural the viewer feels as is they are at the celebration themselves. The story is extremely accessible as everyone in their lives has experienced family drama at one point or another, I found myself actively responding to the characters actions and reactions.
The films depressing ending does not have to be looked at as completely bleak, because there were some small hints that the children may get back on their feet, after this episode.
I definitely recommend this film for anyone. Even though the cinematography is regarded as the opposite of the norm, and maybe require some getting used to from some viewers, it's definitely a story worth knowing!

The Constant Gardener (2005)
I really enjoyed this film. The story was good, the cinematography was slick and I didn't barf from any cliché/overdone genre themes, sweet!
I think it was the combination of sappy love story (but not overdone) and socially conscious narrative thread that kept my attention. The love scenes in the beginning were so cute, I was jealous, however I did almost have enough when, during the flashbacks the characters said "I love you, honny". I get it, you were in love, maybe use another adjective.
The socially conscious thread worked well with what is going on in contemporary politics of corporate pharmaceuticals, it definitely had a place, however just as the "I love yous" with the couple was too much, I thought this thread was redundant at times; it didn't go into depth in terms of unearthing the corrupt corporations, probably because there were so many flashbacks going on through Ralph Fiennes of his wife saying "I love you" he did not have as much time to think about the pharmaceutical companies.
The direction of the film was fantastic! Fernando Meirelles is an awesome director, this film was right up his alley.
I say check out this film.

2046 (2004)
I enjoyed this picture almost only for its aesthetic values. What I didn't enjoy were the scenes where the main guy has sex with the prostitute next door, but then treats her as no more than an acquaintance when she has the urge to have a more than physical relationship with him. It's a kind of messed up narrative in this respect.
2046 is a Hong Kong film about twisted romances by trying to substitute one person for another. The main guy mostly had an affair with the prostitute next door because her room number was the same room number as the woman who he had an illicit affair with a few years ago. The guy also almost hooks up with another lady because she had the same name as the woman he used to be in love with. I guess this narrative is illustrating that you can't force yourself to stop loving someone? either way I feel bad for the women who were under the impression that the guy had feelings for them.
The aesthetics were incredible in my opinion. Wong Kar Wai uses some great colouring and composition style. I could just watch the images with no sound track and still enjoy the film. Everything seemed so natural, but at the same time perfectly chosen to look just so.
I definitely recommend this film for foreign enthusiast, or people who are interested in starting to watch foreign films. It's definitely accessible, except for the parts when they were in "the future" realm the main guy creates to try and escape him love for the woman he originally loved.

Capote (2005)
Capote was pretty emotionally intense; I felt myself being pulled in numerous directions in terms of who to sympathize with. I felt bad for Capote because he was going through while he was writing his book, I felt bad for the murderers because they were being exploited by Capote beyond their knowledge, and I felt bad for the community that had to live through the events after the murder. So I was feeling a bit emotionally drained afterwards.
Visually, I found Capote modest, it didn't try many daring set-ups having most of the emphasis on the actors' performances. Catherine Keener and Chris Cooper were awesome as supporting actors, and of course I'll give a nod of recognition to Hoffman, but come on who hasn't so I won't indulge his presently inflated ego.
Scenes to look out for: the re-enactment of the murder scene (disturbing); and the scene of Capote writing by the sea in Spain (gorgeous), the rest are depressing and pretty morbid to say the least.
Capote is worth checking out at a time that you feel neutral (you wouldn't want it to ruin a good mood, or make a sour mood even more sour).

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang (2005)
What I can say? This movie was CRAPPY!
They tried doing too much, and it ended up coming out messy; there were a lot of unanswered questions, the device of the "coincidence" was completely overdone. I saw this on the big screen too, so it's makes it awkward to stop watching it since I paid to go see it, bad move.
Putting murder/mystery/comedy together can sometimes work, but in this case the soda goes flat when the narrative begins. Using "intertitles" to make the film arts and crafty didn't help either.
It was mostly a crappy movie because the main girl just got on my nerves completely, I really think the producers wanted to cast Liv Tyler (who only moderately annoys me) but she turned it down so they had to substitute her with a really annoying chick.
Robert Downey Jr was fair (his losing a finger was the best part of his performance), but Val Kilmer totally carried the film, in my opinion. Playing the gay detective who can turn on flamboyancy whenever he wanted was the only funny aspect of this weak flick.

To Sleep with Anger (1990)
I did not have anything against this movie, there was just nothing that happened that could make me excited or turn me off.
Charles Burnett's story of an African American family who receives a not so welcome guest who upturns their lives, seems like if could be an interesting human interest films and family drama, but it didn't really come out saying anything.
My favourite scene, and one of the few that I reacted to was when the older brother is trying to get the younger brothers attention, because the younger brother beat his wife and is now sitting in his car, waiting. The older brother shakes the car yelling what sounds to be "babee bra, babee bra!, stop acting like a child". Um, Big Bro? I think you're acting like a child, hehe. Also having Danny Glover's body covered with a blanket when it's lying in the kitchen is hilarious.
But, overall I'm indifferent to this film. I didn't hate or love it, it was just there, and I watched it in class, bleh.

In Her Shoes (2005)
I thought this was an endearing film. The story of the bond between two sisters, through thick and thin, sigh. Makes me miss my sister poopi pants.
I thought it was funny how Toni Collette's character gets married at the end (Toni starred in Muriel's Wedding where her character's pathetic attempt to get married is the butt end of the joke).
Cameron Diaz's character was mostly sloppy, then ending with some grace, but not very convincingly. It's as if Cameron decided to put no effort into constructing her character and just showed up for shooting (her character is what I call a "blah" character because there's nothing extraordinary about it).
Shirley MacLaine I thought was wonderful in this picture. What I liked about her presence is that even before I say her on screen I was given the impression that Toni and Cameron's characters were similar to Shirley's character in "The Apartment". Shirley's character in "The Apartment" is a young woman who is insecure and who gets herself involved with a married man, who is Jack Lemmon's boss. It's a heavy movie, it really hit my heart at a few points. I think it's a neat coincidence that they can cast Shirley as the role of the mentor for the character that she played nearly 46 years ago, crazy! you go Shirley, you're one tough gal!
I have no comment on the direction, there was nothing I feel stood out mostly because the film was about showcasing Cameron's derriere (on side note, if that's what you're interested in, this is a great chance to check that out).
Overall, this movie is a tender piece about the importance of family bonds. It's a fair movie, but could have been 20 minutes shorter.

From The Journals of Jean Seberg (1995)
So I say to myself, Julia you've seen this movie 4 times because you did a presentation for it in class, and you haven't blogged in a dog's age, so you might as well bloggit!
This movie is in an essay style which would normally make me question why I'm watching it, but I actually found it kind of interesting, and kind of funny. The woman playing Seberg really ticked me off and I wanted to punch her throughout the film (gah that voice, shut up!)
The scenes making fun of Jane Fonda were definitely the highlight of the film (what a tool!), and I thought it was neat when they put together all the different Joan of Arc performances in one sequence.
This film is one that should be watched only if sought out for. The annoying voice of the lady almost made me not want to finish watching the movie, and therefore finishing my presentation.
The length was good. 97 minutes, any more and I would have gone bananas (and who's to say I haven't)

Weekend (1967)
This was the 2nd time I've seen this movie, and I have to say it lost some of it's magic this time around. Weekend is regarded as Godard's masterpiece, and I enjoy many of his films, but the political messages in this film did no interest me.
Godard is good for people who want something completely different than a narrative structure. The story is of a woman and her husband who go on a trip plotting to murder her mother in order to get all the inheritance from her father. During the trip they get into a lot of misshapes, it can be kind of annoying at time (really you have to want to see this movie, to enjoy it).
They do end up killing the mother by the end, but then the husband is killed and eaten by a bunch of cannibals who the wife is now a part of, and she eats her husband essentially.
Soo many metaphors in this film you have to already know about them to understand them. The monologues some of the characters have are interesting. As of now I can only enjoy the film as if i was watching in order to find patterns in all of Godard's films, like the intertitles and people gets ticked off at each other, hehe.
I do really like to cars that the characters were driving throughout their trip, they were très chic! and the countryside looked very beautiful.
If you're looking for a cool Godard film to watch I recommend 'A Woman is a Woman' about an exotic dancer who wants to get pregnant by her boyfriend who doesn't want to..."it'z dee way of dee french!"

Memento (2000)
I've seen this movie a couple of times now so it's hard not to be partial and drag my criticism for this film also. Memento is the kind of film that all film students have seen at one point or another in their film studies career, haha.
I enjoy this film because it has so much depth in terms of human nature and the structure of it is just so damn cool.
Guy Pierce playing the guy with no memory is slick; I was paying extra close attention to his mannerisms and they were so subtle, yet so defined, it was awesome! My favourite part of the movie is when for a split second you see Guy Pierce sitting in the mental hospital chair instead of Sammy Jenkins, it's soo eerie, i get goosebumps everytime, honestly!
Another cool part is when the movie at the end moves from B/W to colour because the story is almost done, or "at the beginning". I feel like the film has a good closure with the effect in place.
Christopher Nolan is good as a director, I enjoy his style. He was good for Batman Begins also, his psychological approach to characters that are damaged and intriguing and keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
I thought the length was good, not too long not too short, that and I've seen is almost half a dozen times and I don't have to check my watch at all.
Memento should be watched by everyone at least once. It's accessible when you get past the idea that it is being shown in reverse; it's a great effect when done properly, makes me think I should have written a paper about it in my narrative theory class, PSYCKE!

The Aristocrats (2005)
This movie tries to be funny, but it just ain't. The premise of the flick that a bunch of comedians reminisce about a joke that has a long history and a great reputation and being absurdly funny, I didn't laugh once when it was being told.
I see this movie as movie where comedians can laugh on camera and act like they're all soooo funny. The joke it's funny, it's silly and therefore impossible to laugh at when it's being forced out, they're all acting like teenage school girls, come on, think of something original.
I can see the filmmakers saying hey lets get a bunch of celebrated comedians interviewed about this raunchy joke, everyone will want to see it because everyone has at least one comedian that they enjoy.
I did laugh for a brief second though, when one comedian randomly said "oh that disastrous event that happened January 3rd...pause...I left my visa at the 4 seasons" when he was poking fun at how everyone references 9/11.
The organization I found was too gimmicky and that they were making the joke out to be more than it is. It's a lame joke that comedian's want to hype up because it has no limits. I think personally that some of the comedian's could have cared less whether this documentary about this film was made.
One trick pony my friend, make a documentary about that! I lost some respect for comedians with this one.

Stars – Winterlude Snowbowl – Feb 18, 2006
This was a cool performance, even though it was in the freezing cold weather. I had been waiting to see Stars live for over a year, so I couldn't miss the opportunity of seeing them for free.
They played for about 80 minutes which is pretty impressive, I was surprised I lasted over 90 minutes in the ass cold weather (I also avoiding checking the temperature before I left, some things are best left unknown).
Some of the highlights for me were "Elevator Love Letter" and a cool acoustic rendition of "Life Effect". They played more songs off their "Set Yourself on Fire" album, but still added in some of their older songs. They also did a cover of Bruce Springsteen's "Hungry Heart", it was pretty cool; as an introduction they called him a young artist from New Jersey, I guess he's young at heart.
Vocalist and frontman Torquil Campbell made a strong impression to get the audience excited, encouraging the crowd to jump up and down to warm up. Also making mildly politically active stances, such as pointing and at Parliment saying this is a song about vampires, kind of like the ones over there, and referring to the people who run the country as a bunch of morns...I don't contest. Torq seemed a bit drained up on stage, but still gave the crowd great enthusiasm.
Amy Millan was awesome, I want to be her. Playing lead guitar, doing most of the vocals, but still giving a humble stage presence, how could one not admire her. Wearing a spiffy grey wool coat, black frilly skirt, with tights and a furry hat, she seemed to be mirroring the Russian style from the turn of the century, aye comrade. Amy had an awesome voice and gave a great performance despite the crappy weather. During a short interlude when Torq left the stage, Amy did an impromtu of BSS's "Superconnected" it was way cool! (I was secretly hoping a BSS member or two would hope out on stage at this point, but no dice). She is definitely Stars' greatest asset (as long as she doesn't do what Gwen Stefani did to No Doubt, she'll always be one hip cat).
Their bassist is also SOO HOT! He was great (something about bassist in trendy Montreal indie bands gets me off, who knew).
Overall I enjoyed myself at this show and recommend people see them live whenever they have the chance.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)
I thought this was a nice movie. It had a strong story, the acting was well done, and visually it was rich. However, it did not live up to the reputation that is has garnered over the past few months. I took a queer theory class last semester and I can contest that this is not really a gay film. It's a queer film, and I would say that leaves it more open to interpretation.
This film does not have a lot of actual dialogue between the two main characters, I find that to be the strength of the film, because it shows that even they had trouble pronouncing their feelings for one another. Most of the emotions were portrayed through facial gestures, and their mannerisms toward one another, a very good job done by both Heath and Jake.
I feel that Ang Lee was a good pick to direct this picture also, because his style is so eclectic, from Eat Drink Man Woman to Sense and Sensibility, to The Ice Storm the The Hulk, Ang Lee has proved that he is not interested in maintaining his film conventions, kudos.
I feel like I should comment on the politics of the film, this film is darn conservative in my opinion. Yes it does shead light on same-sex relationships, but I don't think that deserves much attention, because the film is about the bond between two people who can't make public their relationship.
I recommend it.

The Weather Man (2005)
I thought this was an alright movie, nothing extraordinary, but I didn't despise it either. Nicolas Cage plays a weather man from Chicago who seems to never get a break, his wife left him, his dad doesn't respect him, and is on the social black list of the whole city. But at the same time I blame him for his misfortunes, he doesn't listen to anyone, he lets everyone walk all over him, but he still says it's not his fault, get over it chump.
His daughter who is 12 has a camel toe problem. Yeah it really sucks, but she's 12 so she's ignorant of it, obviously someone has to fix it without hurting her feelings. And his son is spending way too much time with a potential pervert, ah geez.
Like any other film this one ends happily. Though he does not get back together with his wife, he is able to fix his relationship with his father, and clean up his kids.
Gore Verbinski does a commendable job with this modest script. I also think it would have been interesting if the weather man was played by Adam Sandler, the character has make similarities to his character in, hmmm everything.

Sweet and Lowdown (1999)
I was pleasantly surprised with this film, it was good. It is the story of a fictional jazz guitarist played by Sean Penn done in a semi bio-pic style, which makes it even more funny than it already is.
What I liked most of the film were the women that Sean Penn's character got involved with seriously, they are the complete opposite from one another. The first lady, named Hattie, is a mute; so Sean Penn can't complain to her that he can't get emotional involved with women because she never complains that he doesn't. She's such a sweet lady; she follows him around like a loyal puppy and even buys him the exact gloves that he wanted, for his birthday, ah, that's soo sweet.
The second lady, played by Uma Thurman is the complete opposite, and she's hilarious at it. She has my favourite lines in this film. Her character is a writer and she's always trying to understand why Sean Penn's character does what he does. Stuff like "Why do you like to watch trains?" "Why do you like to shoot rats at the dump?" haha (because that's what his character likes to do). Sean Penn just shrugs his shoulder and says, I dunno...this is the majority of guys in a nut shell, deal with it. Her character tries to uncover the emotional truth behind Sean Penn's passion (lady his character mostly just wants to screw around with women, why else has he not kept a relationship and is continuously touring on the road, duh!). She brings this trait further when she's having an affair with someone's bodyguard who has killed people before. "What do you think about right when you're killing a guy?" "Why do you like killing this guy?". Meanwhile this bodyguard is staring at her boobs and telling her, her hair is real soft. (gee, he might be thinking about something else).
Not to take anything away from Sean Penn, he was great, not one of his best performances though. Direction from Woody Allen was pretty good also.
I say check out this film, it's not extraordinary, but very enjoyable.

The Idiots (1998)
This was a good movie, I enjoyed it because it's a Dogme 95 movie and it was a good story, but after seeing half a dozen Dogme films, I feel it's redundant for me to be watching it for it's unique stylization.
I enjoyed it more for the story. The story is about a group of people who pretend to be mentally retarded in order to escape the realities of today's society. This is a pretty cool premise, in my opinion. The character's get into some pretty wacky situations in order to keep the authenticity of their performance going (eg. One guy has to let someone hold his dick to pee, because the guy things he doesn't know how to do it himself, haha).
At times their behaviour seems pathetic, and bizarre, like when they have a group orgy while acting retarded in their group home.
But in the end the film has a strong message when it becomes obvious that none of them can keep up the charade, and still have a functional life in society. The characters dare each other to act retarded at their jobs, therefore jeopardizing their employment, but none of them have the guts to sacrifice their positions. I found this to be interesting because it shows that most people sacrifice guilty pleasures in order to function in society.
This film was the 2nd official film under the Dogme code, so it is pretty original for it's time.
I recommend it for anyone who wants to examine how most people don't act the way they want in society because they are too afraid they'll be shunned for it.

The Limey (1999)
I watched The Limey after my friend Nicole raved that it was genius, I can't say I agree, sorry, Nicole :( , but it still had some elements I thought were cool.
The story of The Limey is a British man flies to LA after finding out his daughter dies a suspicious death, and he wants to sort out what actually happened, so he can heal emotionally. That's an alright premise, it's not my favourite genre, sadly.
What I really liked about the film, however, was the cinematography and all other visual techniques Steven Soderbergh gave for our eyes to feast on. Visually it's a rich film, not of the lame CGI persuasion, but cool compositions, lightings, and filters. Soderbergh gives a nice range in terms of these elements. I have come to expect this to Soderbergh, he never disappoints in this area. One of the techniques in particular was making all the subjects and objects of the frame go blurry as if it was out of focus. But not just that, I'm not sure how to explain it, but the subjects had that extended blurriness that is added on top of them and belong them (if anyone knows what I'm talking about, please post a comment to clarify).
Side note, it was pretty cool seeing Peter Fonda in this movie, even though his character is a slime bucket, he's still a charmer.
I say check out this film if you're looking for some stimulation cinematography, and slick revenge movies, of course ;)

Cries and Whispers (1972)
I thought this was a strong movie. The story of two sisters going to the bedside of their other sister as she is dying of cancer, is deeply moving, a bit too moving for me at times. But I was still able to appreciate it, for what is had to offer, because it was so honest and true to how people act in these hard times. The two visiting sisters, Karin and Maria, are equally going through the same trauma of losing a sister, but are also equally opposite with how they show their emotions. Karin, the stronger of the two, does not cry as her sister is dying, and is cold and blunt toward Maria when Maria is trying to reach out to her. Maria is very easy with showing her emotions, she weeps and weeps as her sister is dying and shows signs of the sting of rejection when Karin says she hates her (that's harsh) after their sister Agnes has died.
Agnes maid, Anna, seems to be the one most affected by her death. Anna is the only one who stays up late at night to care for Anges, and is still humble toward Maria and Karin afterwards, even though she has suffered a major loss.
At the end of the film, Karin and Maria seem to be on better terms, but unfortunately Anna has to leave her employment and go elsewhere. The film is strong, like I said earlier, from the beginning to the end. It's not something to watch for fun because most of the time the only sound are cries and whispers, literally.
I have to say that this isn't my favourite Ingmar Bergman film I've seen. I'm more partial to The Seven Seal, Wild Strawberries, and Scenes from a Marriage (Scenes is the most accessible film by the way), most of his films being quite archaic.
The DVD I watched it on had an interview with Bergman, I thought that was pretty cool. He talks about life, death, and love, it's a complete understatement to say that he's had his fair share in his lifetime, but it's hard to put into the right words.
The cinematography was also well done in this film, and the symbolic red fade-outs left a strong feeling on me. I can't categorize this film on a scale because of the intense emotions that are portrayed; it was hard to watch, but also hard to look away.

Dead Man (1995)
I thought this was a good movie, but it was too long for me to enjoy. Because of it's speed, I felt bored, and also hard to concentrate on what was progressing in the film. That's not to say that it was a bad film. I thought this film had a lot of depth, and I enjoyed the characters and the premise of the film.
The premise of the film is a man goes to a small town because he thinks he has a job, but finds out he's too late. He then goes on a journey, after getting caught in bed with another man's wife, and kills the other man in self-defence.
Johnny Depp plays the main character, and he does a good job at it.
What I liked about this film is that is made fun of the western genre a bunch of times. Stuff like a rough cow boy sleeping with a teddy bear, references to a Pinto as a horse, and one of the guys feeling embarrassed that his fly is down. These references make the film seem kind of self-aware, I thought it was cool. Dead Man is kind of like Blazing Saddles, but with actual dark tones.
I'm also not normally a fan of Jim Jarmusch films because they're too slow moving and that seem depressing, that applies to Dead Man also, but I can tolerate it more than Broken Flowers or Coffee and Cigarettes. If you muster up the energy to watch this one, enjoy!

Metric – Capital Music Hall – March 3, 2006
I was really excited for this show and I put some expectations on it, but unfortunately in the end I was disappointed with the end result. There were many reasons why I left the show feeling this way. I will now indulge in them. For one, it seemed to take forever for them to start playing. My friends and I got there around 8:30, only to wait in line in the doorway, and then it took forever for each of the bands to start their respective sets. Also the venue was way too crowded for me to enjoy myself. It got gross uncomfortable sometimes, and to make matters worse I was standing behind a guy 2 heads taller than me who stood like a post, which a) turned me off from rocking out to Metric, and b) not being able to see Emily do her thang on stage. I was also disappointed that they only played 2 tracks of Old World Underground: combat Baby and Dead Disco. Come on, I really you're pushing the new album, but succexy would have been fantastic to hear.
I can't say the night was a complete bust though. The sound of the venue was pretty good, in my opinion. I really think it works in that venue (but unfortunately it was also the first event they held as the new capital music hall, and I really think they were trying to work out the kinks still). I bumped into some people I knew, and it was cool seeing them there, and eventually, after I had it up to here with the giant post in front of me, and took to the balcony where I could see everything perfectly, and was able to breath comfortably. Metric is a good band to see I say, I just had the unfortunate opportunity of have a shitty experience.
End Note: don't get mad at people when they bud in front of you sometimes. The world is an imperfect place. To the lady who gave me grief when I did said act because my roommate and I were feeling nauseous: get a friggin grip! Whenever budding is involved the person doesn't have some malicious intention to ruin your evening, you ended up getting your coat before me in the end anyway, Geez!

Gummo (1997)
I've seen this movie twice now, and it's hard to say I despise it, and it's hard to say I like it. It's one of those films that hit you, and you're left questioning what it all meant. I think that could be a good thing. However, what disturbed me about Gummo is that, it still doesn't make much sense to me. The film is about a bunch of different people in Xenia, Ohio and how their lives are really decrepit after a tornado hit their town.
I think what had turned me off from this film is the grossness and stupidity of some of the scenes. The kid eating spaghetti in the dirty bath water and then dropping a chocolate bar in the water was pretty nasty. The group of hicks arm wrestling then destroying their own furniture (with many mise en scene discontinuities) seemed dumb too. I guess all of it probably has a point to it. I feel like I shouldn't knock the film in this blog, because it was successful at what it was trying to do, that is show the horrible aftermath of a tornado hitting a small community, the educated people probably left because they knew it was only going downhill.
The film does not have a goal, and it also does not have characters that develop or learn something about themselves or human nature. What I got from this film is that if a communities foundation is completely thrown off balance, there is little that can be done to repair the damage, unless people from the outside help them out. I may be completely off with that prognosis, let me know if you think otherwise.
I did love one element of this film, and that was the soundtrack. It plays both Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison tunes. I thought that was really cool, both musicians have been in my metaphysical ipod since I was a wee one.
I guess Harmony Korine was successful with his film. I take it he wanted to do something different than mainstream Hollywood and that he was not trying to impress anyone. It was a guilty pleasure to read Ebert's review. He so desperately was trying to retain his professionalism by not saying "I thought this movie was a piece of shit". Oh Ebert, you're such a tool!
I say check this film out if you want to broaden your horizon's, just don't be surprised if it initially turns you off.

Water (2005)
I thought this was an alright movie. It didn't do anything in particular for me, the visuals were strong, but I couldn't relate at all to the subject matter. Water is about the oppression women experienced in the 30s in India, and also has a sub narrative thread about the trials of Gandhi. It was director by a Canadian, I feel like I should at least say something about that, but I'm drawing a blank ah, geez.
Trivial side note: the main soundtrack tune was almost identical to the theme of the movie Titanic...that movie also has A LOT of water in it, coincidence? who knows!
I can't comment on recommending this film on not, if you're interested in the subject matter, go nuts.

Dial M for Murder (1954)
I thought this was a good movie. It was well acted, the story was strong and the visuals were rich. There are a few things I'd like to point in particular that I thought made this a good movie. The film was essentially
more or less shot in one room, the scene of the crime being that room, it was very theatrical in that respect. What I liked about it, is that I seamlessly did not think twice that so much was just in one room. I think the fluidity of the story suspended the audience from being aware that there is not much variety in terms of scenery; and whenever he is showing the characters outside the apartment going in or out of the building, he shoots it from inside the apartment. I guess an psychoanalytical reading will tell us that the apartment room is the film and it represents the oppression that the female character is
experiencing under his husband. It is also interesting because the wife is having an affair with another man, but we are never told where they have the affair, do they "do it" in the apartment? tisk tisk. There is one shot in the film that really stood out, and that was the overhead shot that seems to be placed on the ceiling looking down almost, I thought this was a really cool shot, and that it must have heavily influenced superseding directors.
I love that Grace Kelly was in the film, she is awesome and no wonder she's a princess. I think it was a good pick to have her play the helpless female, because the audience feels so sorry for her that she is falsely
accused of murder, even though she was obviously cheating on her husband. If Hitchcock was to have casted a fugly lady, people would think that they character deserves the death sentence, because if she can't prevent herself from veering away from her husband, who know's what she'd be capable of? murder, perhaps? I haven't completely decided what I think of Ray Milland as the husband character. It's as if he was casted because Cary Grant wasn't available, he looks almost like a complete double of Cary. Anyone who has seen a good Cary Grant film knows what I'm taking about. That guy can melt the polar caps with his charm, but maybe the role would have made him out to be a bad guy and in that case, I'm all for saving Cary's star persona. For Hitchcock, this is one of his good films. I've only been slightly disappointed with some of his films, but this one is a winner, check it out!

Jarhead (2005)
Moment of self-congratulation: this is my 51st blog! sweet!
"Jarhead is slang for a marine because their head is shaped like a jar"
I liked this movie because of how it identified and examined the psychology of the 20 year old boy/man who enlists in the army. I found this movie did not have much of an overt political message, and people who were disappointed with this film were probably expecting one.
Jarhead is one of those films that you read the cast and credits and think hey, this seems pretty reputable. Sam Mendes does a good job directing, and of course Jake and Peter are hot stuff. Yar, who'd want to miss the chance to see SarrsgaarrrrRd in action!
I really liked the cinematography and the visual effects. The shot when sand comes out of Jake's mouth into the sink when he seems to be vomiting is really cool. The shot of the maries in the oil fields at night digging up the earth is also cool, and the shot at the end when what Jake is looking at out his window becomes the desert area.
The soundtrack was bold and also self-reflexive. It had contemporary hip-hop, but also played The Doors - Welcome to the other Side to which one of the marine says "that's not even our war" because it is a song from the time of the Vietnam war. This film refers a lot to other war films. Before they fly overseas the troops watch "Apocalypse Now" and during their initial training the film echos the early scenes from "Full Metal Jacket". Also in the scene where one of the marines gets a video from his wife, it is titled Deer Hunter, and all the marine's gather to watch what they think is Deer Hunter. All these references point out that people in the army live, breath, and eat the army, while they are stationed with the army that is their life. When Jake is demoted he almost has a breakdown because, in his mind,
he has lost his station in life. I recommend this movie, it is interesting to watch. It may not have as much psychological depth as past war movies that deal with metaphysical issues, but it is still one worth watching.

George Washington (2000)
I thought this was a good movie because it was subtle and it was not pretentious. The visuals were solid and the script was eloquent, but accessible. It is the story of a group of children living in a small town, who accidentally kill their good friend, and try to live with the results, but keep his death a secret. The children are ashamed that they had killed their friend and they experience extreme remorse. I really liked the visuals of this film; I found it to be very rich. Each shot seemed to be thought out so precisely
because they were all so picturesque; it was as if Green was playing on shooting the film all as stills. The film is also subtle because there are no real character outbursts. There were 2 overtly comedic moments that I enjoyed though. One of them being when George very easily convinces a grown man volunteer his time and direct traffic, while he, George wears a costume that resembles a superhero's uniform. The other when George first wears his dog fur hat.

4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (2007)

2010-02-20T21:41:00.002-05:00

I really liked this film. It's the 3rd Romanian film that I've seen now, all of them being exceptional, in my opinion, so I think I'm really developing a taste for this cinema. In the three movies that I've seen (others being "The Happiest Girl in the World" and "Police, Adjective") the principal style that stands out is the long static shots that are very evident. I think most people would find this boring and make the film less accessible because most people are accustomed to lots of editing and high tech camera work. In these Romanian films, it's completely the opposite. The camera hardly, if ever, moves, and the shots on average can last 10 minutes.
The scene I like the most in 4 Months is when Otilia is at her boyfriend's for dinner, and she doesn't want to be there because she wants to take care of her friend. Otilia's frustration is exhibited amazingly through her silent frustration, while everyone around her is eating, talking and laughing. The camera is static with Otilia in the center, with all this action going on around her. People are reaching, trying to talk to her, but they are too busy in their own world to see that she is silently in agony. This whole sequence was done in one shot, and from watching an interview with the director learned that it was the hardest sequence to shoot because there was so much that could have gone wrong, and they had to keep reshooting it. I was actually anticipating longer static shots than there were. Police, Adjective definitely stretched the length of single shots a lot more (and I loved that about the film). 4 Months makes this technique more accessible by not having the shots as long.

Another reason why I'm really digging Romanian cinema lately, that's quite evident in 4 Months, is the very unmaterialistic lifestyle that characters live. Granted, 4 Months takes place in 1987 when Romania was under Communist rule, but I really appreciate this way of life, from afar, since it is so different than the lifestyle I lead.

I really want to check out more Romanian films, and plan on making a point to seek them out. I recommend 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days if you feel like appreciating something that's different than Hollywood films. While the story is very heavy, it's depiction is amazing, and I feel like it shouldn't be missed.

What Lies Beneath (2000)

2010-01-29T22:25:00.002-05:00

This movie wasn't that bad. I think I was in the mood for some formulaic hollywood horror, and this film definitely met that expectation. All the forms and conventions you would expect from this kind of film was present. Eerie music, off-kiltered woman, suspicious man, and obvious story plot, that you can figure out within the first 20 minutes. If all this seems redundant, and pointless to you, I am not forcing you to continue to read this, and maybe this movie isn't for you.
If I still have a bit of your attention, I'll continue. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, who I've lately been giving credit to as a director who can make financially, and audience friendly films, while keeping a bit of quality in the work. Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, are by no means artistic masterpieces, but they are awesome to watch.
What Lies Beneath is definitely not in the same category as these films. Watching it I actually felt like it was a very strong homage to classic Hitchcock. A lot of the shots look like they were directly pulled from Psycho, Rear Window, and Vertigo. If anything it was cool to see him paying tribute to some amazing films.
So maybe this movie is worth checking out for you. It's just not an any day occasion film.

Le Scaphandre Et Le Papillon (2007)

2010-01-29T13:22:00.002-05:00

This movie was really good. It was authentic, touching, and I finished it feeling awe-inspired. There's really nothing critical I can say about it. It really makes you grateful for what you have in life, and the people who support you.
That being said, the performances were amazing from the whole cast, especially Mathieu Amalric as Jean-Do. I'm sure getting into that mind-set must have been a challenge, but he plays it effortlessly.
The pacing was also really good. I like how we the audience see the world as John-Do. We do not know what he looks like for the first chunk of the film (as he has probably forgotten what he looks like also), and we're gradually introduced to his former life as the editor for Elle magazine. Shooting from his POV was incredible, especially the scene where his eye is being sewn up, so tragic.
Jean-Do had an amazing life before having a stroke, so it really shows how you need to enjoy every moment, because you don't know when it will be over.
I recommend this film to all.

Defendor (2009)

2010-01-19T17:27:00.002-05:00

I was pretty disappointed with this film, which is a shame. It played out like the typical Canadian low-budget flick, with the typically flaws. The performances were subpar, The story had gaps, and the overall production quality was also very Canadian. My reasons to see this movie was that it was filmed in my hometown, and I wanted to see my 'hood on the big screen. This aspect was satifactory. I saw my shitty mall, and some of the main arteries on display, and that was cool.
Some of the aspects that were weak.
Story: The protagonist is a mentally challenged individual. I had trouble seeing him as a legitimate super hero because he will always have issues of his own. Sure the whole idea that all super heros have weaknesses can be played, but really, it was not executed in this fashion. Instead I just felt sorry for the guy. And I did not find it believable that the whole city would support Defendor after he was killed (the guy got himself killed!)
Kat Dennings: She does not know how to play a junkie, and just comes across as confused and out of place. She played the part well visually with costume, but she was not believable smoking a crack pipe.
One part that I could help but be baffled at was the film had no soundtrack whatsoever throughout the film, but then at the end, as the credits are rolling, booms out with a powerful Metric song. No doubt this was one of the most costly aspects of this film, but really, why couldn't they put some tunes throughout the film, instead of at the end, where I'm already disappointed, and the song just seems to try too hard.
Sorry, I can't recommend this film, unfortunately.

Whip It (2009)

2010-01-12T20:24:00.003-05:00

This movie was enjoyable. It was by no means a cinematic masterpiece, but it definitely had a positive message, and delivered it a very formulaic, paint-by-numbers structure.
As Drew Barrymore's directorial debut, I'll give her props. This was a strong project, and a good choice made.
Zoe Bell, one of my female heros, did well in her supporting role, but could have used more screen time. Kristen Wiig showed off her chops in a featuring supporting role, so I was happy she got some deserved attention. But Juliette Lewis as the "bad" roller girl, stole the show. You know those shows when the villian is so obvious, but is also so amazing, that you want more evil, Lewis definitely oozes amazingness in this role.
To address the painfully obvious story arch, I think Barrymore might have wanted to play it safe, and that's why this film doesn't take any chances. The classic love story of girl getting involved with a boy, but then gets blown off, and then decides her passion is more important was a little obvious and plain (and the under the water love scene was just awkward).
By playing it safe I mean this film is about supposedly hardcore rockin roller derby chicks, but there was no significant profanity. This film would have had at least a smidge more credibility if Barrymore decided to make Whip It R rated and have more debauchery and more realistic language coming out of the roller girls.
Overall, this movie was decent, and if you're into roller derby girls in a PG-13 setting, then go for it!

The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus (2009)

2010-01-11T13:15:00.002-05:00

I surprisingly enjoyed this film. I walked into it kind of skeptical. I heard good things, but part of me didn't want to go in with too high expectations, because I wasn't able to finish Gilliam's previous film Tideland, and there was a lot of hype in regards to Heath Ledger's performance.
Imaginarium, like all of Gilliam's films, weights heavily on fantasy spectacle; it is done very well. The viewer is given the impression that the travelling Parnassus and co. are in a middle-world era, when they are actually in modern day London. Being thrown off like this was great, and Gilliam only at first subtly let's the audience members know that it's current year.
The story is laid out very well. The idea of capturing 5 souls for the devil to save his daughter's life is really cool. Tom Waits as the devil is also magnificent. He brings charisma to each of his scenes, and goes into character completely every time.
My favourite scene is the tango between the devil and Parnassus' daughter because it's both eerie, and visually stunning.
I also really enjoyed the visual elements that are in the same vein as Gilliam's work as a graphic designer during Monty Python. The throw back with people blowing up like balloons was done well.
My favourite "Tony" character was Jude Law.
I can't think of anything that disagreed with me in this film, or that I found was weak. I say this film is worth checking out, and definitely on the big screen.

Paper Heart (2009)

2010-01-08T09:35:00.002-05:00

I thought this movie was pretty cute overall. The story was solid and it felt natural because of the faux-documentary style. It also solidified my feeling that Charlyne Yi is very annoying and I can't stand her. I guess it's because I don't understand this hipster chick image that she's portraying. She also seems to go completely out of her way to make herself unattractive and unfeminine.
The polite thing would be to say that it's a different attitude, and I should respect it, but I just think it's weird, and find it hard to understand that a guy would be attracted to that.
Michael Cera is really sweet, and endearing in this movie, and I feel (even though this film is staged) that he could do better than her. It really felt real when she said she didn't love him, and that she didn't want to go to Paris with him (even though I don't know why she would turn down any chance to go to Paris, swoon).
Overall this movie is worth checking out. It definitely portrays the blooming romance accurately. People having feelings for each other, but unsure how to express it, or feeling insecure about taking the leap and even expressing it, is a very accessible topic, as everyone goes through it many times in their live. Enjoy!

Away We Go (2009)

2009-12-23T09:26:00.003-05:00

This movie was alright. I liked the story, and I REALLY liked John Krasinski's beard.
The story of a couple (and soon-to-be parents) trying to figure out where they want to raise their family, and how to properly nurture them to be healthy individuals, while at the same time stay attracted to each other, is really sweet, and isn't seen that often. This film represents stage two of romantic love in film. 99% of films deal with the first stage where two characters find themselves attracted to one another, and are trying to figure out how to communicate this lust for one another, but also trying to avoid potential heartbreak (which happens regardless, and then couple hook up at the end). So it's refreshing to see a film that starts after all that drama has happened and is done with.
John Krasinski is probably the man of most girls' my age dreams. He always plays a charismatic down-to-earth chap that is not afraid to tell the woman he loves, hey, I love you (dude, you're making all the other guys look bad, ha).
There are also a few awesome brief supporting actors that steal their scenes: Catherine O'Hara, and Allison Janney.
In the end this movie might be worth checking out. The execution is decent, but I don't feel like it stood out. I suggest watching it if you want something light, and also doesn't suck ass.

Avatar (2009)

2009-12-21T20:08:00.002-05:00

It`s hard sometimes to write this blog without having other people`s impressions sway my thoughts on the film. This is an instance where I walked into this film with many preconceived notions because there has been a lot of hype built-up around it. It`s a made-to-be 3D adventure, and I decided it would be the first 3D film I saw at the theatre.
In film synergy, it would be Terminator 2 meets The Lion King. It was definitely cool to see, and I`m glad I saw it in 3D, but I didn`t leave the theatre feeling like the film changed me at all. In sum, it was a spectacle for the eyes, and really let me recognize attributes of James Cameron`s films that flow through Avatar. Cameron works very strongly with the theme of man`s dependancy on technology, and the inevitable demise that this dependancy results in (for those of you thinking exclusively of his sci-fi films, don`t forget this theme is extremely obvious in Titanic).

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

2009-12-20T22:27:00.003-05:00

It's been a few years since I've seen this movie, and I've been feeling recognizably contemplative lately, so it seemed like a proper time to revisit this existential masterpiece.
2001 is one of those films that I don't think I can ever quantify how amazing it is. A guy I met once said that Kubrick's films are like a well-aged brandy, and I completely agree. People can acknowledge that they are highly revered, they're not for mass consumption, and you don't want to overindulge in them because they so rich.
A scene that stood out to me during this past screening: The part where Dave is running loops around the space ship. The cinematography depicting his isolation is spot-on, and chilling.
While I can more fully appreciate the slow pacing of 2001, and what each scene contributes to the overall film, the more times I see this film the less of an impact the climax has on me. It's still an amazing ending of philosophical proportions, but that bang on oh-my-god moment is not there anymore (or it at least wasn't there during this screening).
I definitely want to revisit 2001 again sometime to see if watching it twice in a shorter timespan will give me more perspective on it. What can I say, you should watch it!

Smiley Face (2007)

2009-12-19T21:14:00.003-05:00

This is the third time I've seen this film, and second time I've blogged it, and I decided to reblog it because it still hits me as a great film. From start to finish this film keeps my attention. The pacing is so well timed in terms of story development, and editing. I think what makes this a strong film is that it takes place in a single day. Rarely do films convey such a short period of time during the length of the film. I think a story has to be very solid in order for it to hold up taking place only over one day, and Smiley Face stands this test of "time".
Also what I like about this film is that it's portraying pretty idiotic actions, but it does it very smartly. Other stoner-comedies such as Dude, Where's my Car? and Harold and Kumar, don't try hard to be profound (and not that Smiley Face overtly does), but here, there's this level of intelligencia (specifically the scenes where economic, and marxist theory is debated). I find it more realistic to include such dialogue in a stoner comedy, because it acknowledges that many "academic" individuals also enjoy smoking pot.
Another device I thoroughtly enjoy in Smiley Face is the fantasy vs reality sequences that we find Ana Faris in. In her head Ana Faris' character delivers a magnificent and moving speech about labour rights, but in reality she's mumbling profanities, and speaking completely untelligibly, awesome!
The soundtrack is also remarkable: REO Speedwagon, Ladytron and Chemical Brothers.
For these reasons, and many more I really think this movie is greatly underestimated because of what it portrays at it's surface level. It's definitely meant to be a light-hearted comedy, but I think it deserves even more attention.

The Proposal (2009)

2009-12-17T16:15:00.002-05:00

This movie met my expectations, it sucked. I was willing to watch it with an open mind, but it really had nothing new or different about it, that I hadn't seen in a billion other romantic-comedies. A lot of people have said they liked this movie, and that I would like it too, but I don't see what they're getting at. Two people who hated each other for 3 years, are not going to fall in love in less than 3 days. Maybe if they just suddenly want to get it on, granted, I might be able to see that. But to decide over one weekend that they want to spend the rest of their lives together is bunk. I have nothing good to say about this film. I've never been a fan of Sandra Bullock, and Ryan Renolds was alright, but he's becoming predictable and I was really grossed out when Oscar from The Office plays a Stripper/Maid/Grocer.
The whole film also played it too safe. The whole being deported to Canada was lame, and no immigration officer would go to the extent that this one did (unless someone is paying for his expensives, and he really has nothing better to do?)
I regret watching it, and don't recommend it.

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

2009-12-01T17:18:00.002-05:00

This movie was great. I really enjoyed it.
I liked how The Beach Boys were on the soundtrack twice, and was surprised how well the animation worked. I originally thought the film would look primitive as stop motion, but vintage at the same time, but it actually flowed very well and naturally.
I really like Wes Anderson films in general too because you can easily pick out the forms and conventions that he uses consistently in all his films. The dysfunctional. father/son relationship. The male protagonist trying to avoid death by finding something exciting in his life.
Also visually his conventions are consistent. The titles disbursed throughout the film. The static close-up shots of the characters' face. I guess I almost thought Anderson wouldn't be so obvious about his visual techniques since he was using a different medium, but they were all evident. One of my favourites is the shot he uses that's far away and captures the whole room, as if it was a dollhouse. Total borrowing of Godard's Tout Va Bien, and I get excited everytime Anderson uses it in his films.
Since it was a different medium some different things that I thought were cool, and vintagy. When the characters were either absent-minded or knocked out, they would have spirals on their eyes, or x', so awesome. And there were shots with the camera moving with the character, which looked like it was probably elaborate to set up, due to the nature of stop-motion cinematography.
So all things considered this movie is definitely worth checking out, as it's original, and very accessible.

The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009)

2009-11-14T13:01:00.002-05:00

Wow, this movie didn't impress me at all. I'm actually glad I saw it for free, but it really didn't meet my expectations (which were actually kind of low, because I didn't hear the greatest reviews).
I was disappointed because the cast is amazing (and they do act well), but the material, or maybe the direction, just didn't keep it together.
One note, Kevin Spacey seemed like he didn't even want to be in the movie. The whole time he looked exhausted, and he also looks like his aging.

Grizzly Man (2005)

2009-11-14T12:45:00.002-05:00

This movie was pretty cool. For some reason going into it I thought it would be more of a fictionalized account of the character, instead of a full on doc, so it took me about 20 minutes to get over that.
Acclaimed director Werner Herzog protrays Grizzly Man Timothy Treadwell as someone who was so involved in his work, that he had trouble seeing the forest from the trees. I kept thinking about the story Into the Wild, and feel like there are parallel's with the characters' desire for isolation, but also to document their isolation (which can be seen as kind of hypocritical). Both individuals also died while in the wild.
Herzog's voice definitely tries to rationalize Treadwell's actions, and he depicts him as a very determined person, but who also had a very soft side.
I really liked the scenes where Treadwell is interacting with the foxes (who are kind of a sidekick to him in the wild). He plays and talks to them as if they were his cats, aw precious.
Overall, I think this movie is worth checking out because it illustrates how if you become so involved in your work, and are unable to take a step back to see that maybe you're going too far, you will suffer irreconciable consequences.

Mr Jealousy (1997)

2009-11-11T22:09:00.002-05:00

I thought this movie was so cute, I really enjoyed it.
I also had never thought too much of Eric Stoltz, but here I thought he was great.
My favourite parts were the scenes with him and his best friend. One of the subplots is Eric's character is going to therapy to spy on his girlfriend's ex-boyfriend, but to avoid talking about his true life, Eric pretends to be his best friend. Eric tells his best friend this, and over time his best friend expects to hear what he learned in therapy. Eventually Vince decides he wants to go to therapy too, and pretends to be Eric, but puts on a really bad English accent because he said it felt right, haha.
Most of Mr Jealousy is about Eric's obsession with the fidelity of his girlfriends. He plays it very well.
I also really like how the film is set in New York. It gave it a kind of neo-Woody Allen, self-analysis vibe, which was pretty cool.
I say this film is worth checking out.

Wall Street (1987)

2009-11-06T12:01:00.002-05:00

I didn't think too much of this film.
The subject matter didn't appeal to me, and Oliver Stone is a director who's films aren't targeted to me (so I haven't seen many), but I thought it was interesting to check out.
As a character study, this film follows the rise and fall of greed very well. Oliver Stone has a very American Dream quality to all his films (likely why I avoid them), and he portrays it very accurately, and without any irony.
I thought it was cool seeing Martin and Charlie Sheen working as father and son on screen, they definitely have a natural chemistry (for obvious reasons).
Michael Douglas as always plays a great sleazeball.
I have to be honest, I only decided to now check out this film because they announced they're making a sequel with Shia LaBeouf (who, in my opinion, is so clean, can do no wrong).

Coraline (2009)

2009-10-21T21:37:00.002-04:00

This movie didn't really do it for me. It took me about half an hour to figure out why...it's because it's a children's movie. I went into it thinking there were going to be some mature themes (they were definitely dark, but not mature) that would be targeted to me, but not in the slightest. It felt like watching an extended episode of "Are you afraid of the dark" or "Goosebumps", which albeit, were great shows to watch when I was 9, but 17 years later it's not going to be the same thrill.
At one point my sister came in and asked if I was watching Rugrats (a tv cartoon about toddlers, wow).
The visuals also seemed primitive to me. I think it's because Coraline was marketed as a Tim Burton feature (which he probably had nothing to do with besides selling his name), and it definitely didn't have the same quality as Nightmare before Christmas or Corpse Bride for that matter.
All that aside, there were a couple of cool moments. During the climax they did some cool effects with the visuals; and thematically the idea of having buttons sewn into your eyes to blind you from the not so pristine facts of life was pretty cool (but was only brushed upon).
I can't recommend this movie because I really had to push myself to finish it.

Where The Wild Things Are? (2009)

2009-10-18T17:52:00.003-04:00

Fucking beautiful and amazing. I went into this film after hearing good things from aquaintances and decent things from critics, but fuck wow. This film kept my attention throughout (sadly I had to pee early on and missed 2 minutes).
It's the kind of film that has the authenticity that you want all films to have, and a magic that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
So good that I'm listening to the soundtrack as I write this (as I've just downloaded it!).
It reminisces The Never Ending Story; CGI is however more advanced.
And I can't forget to mention that two of my favourite ladies (Catherine Keener and Catherine O'Hara) and director Spike Jonze who has never disappointed me are all involved in this film.
The story is told simply and doesn't stray from what it is trying to illustrate.
The relationship the Monsters have with each other are great to watch, and also tragic. They are lonely, and looking for security...just like everyone else in the world, frig. I like how the film is so honest with portraying their insecurities.
I had a particularly strong emotional reaction with Paul Dano's character Alexander (the goat). The character is so scared about getting in the way of anyone, and submissive to what the others want to do. During the dirt-throwing scene he gets upset when he gets attacked when he's not ready, I just thought, aw, that would have been me.
I have to say: See This Film! I know if I don't have plans next weekend, you will find me in a matinee for this film :)

Donnie Darko (2001)

2009-10-17T11:58:00.003-04:00

This must be my 5th or 6th time seeing this film, but watching it this time gave me so many ideas, I just had to document.
First of all this is an amazing movie. For the longest time it felt cliche to say this because so many people in my demographic will also admit infatuation with it. Watching it 8 years later definitely gave me perspective. Admittingly, Donnie Darko has a crudeness to it. It doesn't try to come across as completely natural; some of the editing in scenes seem a bit off, and the acting can come across as theatrical.
I like how the film is set in the 80s, but it doesn't try to be nostalgic about the era. Sure there are 80s songs, and some 80s wardrobe, and they discuss the '88 presidential election, but they don't make it feel like a gimmick. Other recent films such as Napoleon Dynamite and Adventureland use the 80s as a foible, but Donnie Darko feels displaced. Not to get analytical, but maybe it has to do with the theme of time travel?
Watching it now I feel like Donnie Darko really was messed up psychologically. When I initially watched it in '01 I though oh, this guy is full of teenage angst, and he's searching for meaning, but really that kid had some serious issues, and like his therapist said, he's probably schizophrenic.
Random goodies: Seth Rogen playing a bit part as a bully, and random fat dude in a sweatsuit in a few scenes with no significant plot contribution. Also, Drew Barrymore trying to be a profound lit teacher is hilarious (woman, you are ridiculous when you are trying to be intelligent, ha).
Another comparison I want to make is to Synecdoche, New York. Both films prevalently use the theme of loneliness. The protagonists are so occupied with death and lonliness, that it consumes them. It's the heaviest theme to carry (as probably best represented in swedish art films), and would probably depress viewers if watched repeatedly.
I really liked the soundtrack of Donnie Darko (as it probably was what drew a lot of people to this film). And to be completely biased I have to say check this film out, because it is so awesome even the ridiculous parts are great.

Zodiac (2007)

2009-10-06T16:48:00.002-04:00

This is one of those films I'd put off seeing because it deals with one of the few subjects I don't enjoy exposing myself to: true stories about serial killers. I feel like I'm desensitized to almost all gory ideas that can be portrayed on screen, but once I know that this happened for real, I try to stand clear (non-fiction violence is just not fun, which is why I'll never see the Karla Homolka film).
Putting that all aside this was a good film. It was very polish, and I really liked the cinematography and colouring of the film.
Acting was also well done. I really liked Robert Downey Jr's downfall, and Mark Ruffalo was good with the hot raspy voice, and Jake Gyllenhaal played the obsessive self-appointed detective well (even though I thought it got annoying, and just wanted him to go back to his wife).
I liked the scene when Mark Ruffalo tries to recreate the killing scene, at the scene with the taxi cab. Visually they make the taxi cab stand out, and everything else in the mise en scene is muted so that your attention is more focused. Framing was also really well done, with the handycam feel to it at parts.
People will readily compare this film to Fight Club and Seven (and other Fincher films), which is all fine and dandy in the world of auteur theory, but I feel like I enjoyed this film moreso when I wasn't jutzposing conventions that run through all his films. One element worth pointing out was in the newspaper office, the letters from Zodiac were blanketed on the walls, to show that he is haunting their environment, cool beans.
This film is worth checking out.

Mrs. Miniver (1942)

2009-09-27T19:45:00.001-04:00

In an interview I saw about a month ago, where he was promoting Inglourious Basterds, Tarantino said that Mrs. Miniver was the greatest World War II film. I have to say it was really good. All major elements (story, character, performance, direction, etc) were very strong. Mrs. Miniver is the story of a middle-class mother who's life is turned upside down when England is declared to be at war. She is the average wife and mother, she enjoys taking care of her children, shopping, and spending time with her husband. But as the effects of the war become closer to home, she has first-hand encounters of a world that is not so friendly. The movie is never overly somber, and for the most part trys to portray the war in an approachable way (probably because it was currently going on when it was released).
I personally enjoyed watching the mannerisms of the characters, and their interactions with one another. Everyone is just so polite; it's actually pretty funny to watch how they constantly apologize for random things, that we today wouldn't even think about apologizing for (it was all so British). It's been a while since I've watched a movie since the 40s, and it definitely put me in the spirit to want to watch more.
Overall, Mrs. Miniver is worth watching because it definitely represents what was going on in the world in 1942. It portrays the situation with dignity, and gives you a good perspective on how people were feeling at the time.

Even more TIFF'09

2009-09-26T14:16:00.002-04:00

Same Same But Different
Young German lad hooks up with a Malaysian prostitute, and falls tendering in love with her while backpacking through her town. She has no prospectives, or ambitions, but he stays by her side, despite family and friends telling him she has no future. I thought this was a very sweet movie, but at times didn't understand why he would still put up with her, even in times where she was infidelitous. Gorgeous cinematography of the Cambodian country-side.

Bran Nue Day
This was also a sweet movie, and had some cute song and dance numbers, along with a ridiculous performance by Geoffrey Rush. An Aboriginal adolescent has a girlfriend in his hometown, who he has trouble admitting his feelings to. He is shipped off to boarding school by his mother who wants him to be a priest so he can live a life of good means. The boy is not happy at the school and runs back home because he wants to be with his friends, family and girlfriend. Hilarious hijicks occur on his trek back home. My favourite parts all involve a tight-wad German hippy-tourist who is in Australia to find his father, and become spiritual.

High Life
It's 1983, a group of junkies are down on their luck, and want to score big cash, fast, decide to rob a bank's ATM machines. This movie is based on a theatrical play, and when it was adapted for the screen, they decided to flesh out narrative that doesn't take place in theatrical-like settings. I would have been interested to see a version that was more real to the play. Parts of the film strongly resonated scene and ideas in Reservoir Dogs, and I can't help but think they are conscious montages to the popular heist film. The film overall was enjoyable, but felt rushed. It ended with the feeling that the main character has not changed, and will likely live a cyclical existence of petty crime, jail, repeat.

Precious: Based on the the Novel "Push" by Sapphire
This film won TIFF's People Choice award, which it deserves because it embodies the elements of a film that people go to a festival to see. Dangerous Minds meets Dreamgirls is a tame analogy because Precious does try to push the envelope, when it comes to depicting an accurate account of a hard life people lead when they are in similar circumstances.
Precious is about young woman who was impregnated twice by her father, frequently abused by her mother, and lacks basic education. She escapes her harsh reality by fanasizing about a glamourous life she would like to lead. One of my favourite scenes is when Precious' mother is watching an Italian film (which I am pretty positive is La Ciociara staring Sophia Loren) and Precious escapes into the film with her mother, and they start speaking Italian and portraying the mannerisms of the characters in the film. For anyone who has seen La Ciociara, it's likely it was picked to be in Precious intentionally because it also involves a rape scene, and it is about the relationship between a mother and daugther.
I think it a way Precious is trying to be the big little film of the year. With backers including Oprah and Tyler Perry, it's definitely going to get attention, regardless of whether people actually go see it.
It's a nice film to see, but it's hard to say at this point whether it'll having staying power or not.

More from TIFF'09

2009-09-24T22:18:00.002-04:00

The Day Will Come
A German, former activist, is hunted down by her long lost daughter, and is threaten to be exposed of a crime she committed, that she is trying to keep secret from her new family. Very well paced, and good approach on the relationship between a mother and daughter. I enjoyed the flow between German and French languages, due to the geographic setting of the film in France, close to the German border.

The Misfortunates
Trailer Park Boys in Dutch. I was sadly drained from many longs days at the festival at this point, and was sitting in the second row, so did not leave the film understanding the plot. Film ended with a simple, yet sweet scene of a young boy learning the ride a bicycle with his father/uncle, which was enjoyable. Heard from a co-worker later that his date was offended by the misogynistic themes, that's too bad.

Mr. Nobody
Synecdoche, New York meets 2001: A Space Odyssey, a crazy ride of what the hell is going on. A very old man recounts many potential lives he may have lived. Like Sliding Doors in reverse, the audience finds themselves intertwined in three different stories of his life, and trying to decipher which path is the real one. I left this movie with a profound feeling that life can't be bad regardless of the decisions I make. One of the few films that had an impact on me at this festival. The structure of the film felt like reading a "Choose Your Own Adventure", but in chronological order (because we've probably all done that at one point or another).

Phantom Pain
A touching film about a cyclist who survives a horrible accident, and needs to get one of his legs amputated. The protagonist is a slacker, who does not take responsibility in his life, and the accident is a wake up call. The film is German, but has a very American soundtrack, which gives me the impression that they are pushing for wide release. Story is good, acting is strong, but also, the whole film has a Hollywood formula, which lets you predict how it will end. Amazing cinematography of the countryside when he is cycling. Overall, very enjoyable, and accessible.

Tales from TIFF'09

2009-09-22T19:41:00.002-04:00

TIFF'09 was a pretty good time. I have to admit there was nothing that blew me away, but maybe I just didn't make the right picks. That being said, there were some good films, that I did heartedly enjoy. I decided to try and review them this year as if I was pitching them, enjoy.

Antichrist
Von Trier tries to shock everyone by having Charlotte Gainsbourg drill a hole into her husbands leg, then cut off her genitalia. Set in a dark, yet campy woodland retreat, the audience follows the story of a couple mourning the loss of their son. Twisted and psychologically disturbing, you can't help but cover your eyes a few times, but then leaving the theatre thinking: "That's it"?

The Trotsky
Les Quebecois parle anglais dans ce film du farce political. Colm Feore est le Grande Fromage. Un jeune garcon pense qu'il est Leon Trotsky and plans to start a revolution at his high school. Avec un soundtrack super-pop, Trotsky is a fun, yet poignant tribute to the life of political leader Leon Trotsky. Good times.

Hadewijch
The kind of film that makes you wonder how some people are fanatically religious. Hadewijch follows a young girl in Paris as she tries to make sense of her relationship with God. Very dramatic and European in it's feel, as if they were really trying hard to be profound, but then got lost in the fog, and couldn't turn around.

An Education
Peter Sarsgaard ,with a mild British accent, seduces a school-aged girl, for god knows what reason. The film follows the rise and fall of their relationship. I personally wasn't convinced with plot; however, t'was British, and Peter is very easy on the eyes, so it wasn't a lost cause.

Rachel Getting Married (2008)

2009-09-22T18:18:00.002-04:00

This movie surpassed my expectations, which was awesome. Knowing nothing about this film, besides it being screen at TIFF'08, my impression going into it was, wow, I hope Anne Hathaway isn`t annoying.
I really liked the film for it`s naturalistic style. The handheld camera work was cool, and the dialogue didn`t seem forced. Anne Hathaway did a really good job as a newly clean junkie, who is trying to cope with going home, and living in the shadow of her successful sister.
On some level I was able to relate to the sisters` bond. Regardless of what your sister does there is still unconditional love present, and I liked how regardless of how out of control Kim acted, Rachel was still forgiving, even letting her be the maid of honour.
I can see why this film got a lot of attention, it has a good feel to it, even though there is heavy drama involved. It flows very well, and keeps the audiences attention.

Milk (2008)

2009-06-09T12:48:00.002-04:00

This was a pretty enjoyable film. For the most part it was what I expected, which was nice. Sean Penn's performance was professional, but at times reminded me of his character from I Am Sam, which was somewhat detrimental to my perspective.
What I loved about this film: Emile Hirsch! He was really adorable, I want to have a love affair with his hair. It was so luscious and curly, you know he obviously had it styled professionally, but it definitely carried the film.
Josh Brolin played the self-oppressed bad guy very well. His role here was very different than his portrayal of George Dub-ya, in W. I thought he performed in Milk very well.
James Franco seemed awkward playing Sean Penn's lover. The guy is a good actor, he just didn't look comfortable in this role, in my opinion. Maybe he was trying to expand his range by playing a homosexual, but really, I think he was trying too hard. He looked good, but I was kind of glad when his character was written out of the story, for a while.
Gus van Sant also did a good job directing. I found it cool that he is still able to use the same cinematic techniques that he employed back in his early years. Intertitles / Stillframes with dialogue overlapping style that was made to stand out in his early film My Own Private Idaho, but done very naturally in Milk, that I didn't even notice it until I consciously thought about it.
On a thematic level it's interesting how films such as Milk are commercializing the gay movement. Yes, there were riots and very public demonstrations, but Milk also portrays this period has a time of crazy, yet controlled fun. Mostly I'm thinking about the scenes where the characters are celebrating one of Milk's victories by dancing around, and drinking, having a crazy, ol party...like they were celebrating their victory against The Man.
I recommend this movie if you want to watch a story about a culture martyr who never gave up his fight. It's not too heavy, and is definitely a crowd pleaser.

Star Trek (2009)

2009-05-11T21:13:00.003-04:00

This movie was enjoyable, but that's about it. I was at the edge of my seat for pretty much the whole time because of the action, and I left it feeling satisfied, but didn't leave me wanting more. Maybe it's because I'm not a Star Trek fan, but I didn't feel "excited" to see what will happen in the next movie.
Don't get me wrong, there were aspects of the film that I found awesome. The casting was well done. I loved Simon Pegg as Scotty, Leonard Nimoy making a cameo as his character, and thought it was hilarious Tyler Perry has a bit part for 2 scenes, in what seemed like a blink-and-miss role. Random casting of Winona Ryder as Spock's mom was creepy, but the kitsch quality of it made it funny.
The soundtrack was also amazing. I think the audio probably kept my attention more than the CGI/visuals (even though they were good too).
I saw it with my dad, who's a huge Star Trek fan, and he was weirded out that Spock and Kirk don't get along for most of the film, and that Spock is the captain for a good part of it. I guess these were ploys to try to appeal to a younger generation. I have to admit too that the love story between Spock and the chick (who has a weird name) strange, since his character originally isn't supposed to have feelings.
I recommend this movie if you want some decent action, with a meh story. I guess I wasn't as impressed as I thought I would be because Star Trek follows a lot of the familiar forms and conventions of films in this genre, and it doesn't try to break the mold at all.

The sky is falling...in a theatre near you!

2009-05-11T20:56:00.002-04:00

Today I went to see the new Star Trek movie, and saw that most of the trailers shown for upcoming movies were about the destruction of Earth, in some form or another. I find these movies always eerie. The trailers in question were for Transformers 2, Terminator Salvation, and G.I. Joe. Maybe these trailers were shown because they are similar in conventions as Star Trek, but seeing all three in a row really got me thinking about how audiences are drawn to movies about our demise as a species. I admit that I always think hmmm...will we die this time, or be saved like every other time.
Other movies from the past few years, just to name a few: I Am Legend, Cloverfield, The Happening, and The Day the earth Stood Still all follow this theme as well. It's funny that all these movies (and likely all movies to come with this same premise) always end with earth surviving, humans changing their ways in order to save the earth. Some movies even portray how after the earth is spoiled, people come back and change their ways (WALL-E).
These movies are rarely cinematic genius, but they always make me question how I live on the earth. Sometimes I think these movies are out there to convince us that we're not all that bad, to calm us down, that as long as we repent we can save ourselves (ha, that sounds kind of catholic to me, actually).

Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist (2008)

2009-04-06T17:26:00.002-04:00

This movie was really cute. I was expecting it to be contrived and predictable, but it actually kept my attention, and it flowed very naturally.
One of the subplots is that Nora's best friend, who is drunk, gets lost and then ends up in a train station, trying to get home. I found this to be reminiscent of the classic 80s movie "Adventures in Babysitting" where the narrative arch involves locating the protagonist's best friend, who is stranded at a bus station.
Nick and Nora's has a vintage feel to it, which I think is what made me enjoy it. Before seeing it, I had juxtaposed it to Zack and Miri Make a Porno, because the titles flow the same, they are both a generation-y romantic comedy, and they were theatrically released around the same time.
I enjoyed the soundtrack as well. I thought it would be a lot of obvious indie rock music, but I actually wasn't familiar with most of the music beyond a few songs by The Cure.
I also enjoyed how the supporting actors were not high list celebrities.
Overall I recommend this movie, because it's sweet, and doesn't disappoint. Don't set your standards uber high, but just enjoy it for what it is.

Zack and Miri Make a Porno (2008)

2009-03-27T21:30:00.003-04:00

This movie was pretty weak. Kevin Smith is making a pretty bad attempt to be like Judd Apatow. I thought this movie had a lot of potential, but K.Smith just hasn't been rocking it in the past like 10 years. I think the last movie I enjoyed of his was Dogma, but mostly because it was unique.
The casing of Zack and Miri was great, I thought Elizabeth Banks and Seth Rogen were great picks, but the script really forced them to use their chemistry to carry the film, instead of the story and dialogue.
Under more favourable circumstances K.Smith really knows how to carry the dialogue in his films, but he really seems to be working on autopilot. I don't care that I'm totally trashing the dude, because he really could do so much better. I think he should try a different medium to clease his humour palate and get some creativity going. Try some tv, man, or even some webisodes of some sort. Truely something can be done to salvage his situation, in my opinion.
Saying all this, I really didn't have very high hopes going into this film. I expected more from Darryl from the Office. I heard good reviews from his performance, but I thought it was pretty passive.
In the end, you might enjoy this film. Other people I've talked to said it was funny and entertaining, I just think it could have been better.

I love you, Man (2009)

2009-03-22T19:42:00.003-04:00

This movie was a lot of fun. Paul Rudd and Jason Segel have awesome chemistry and definitely carried this film well. I have to say I enjoyed Rudd's performance more than Segel's just because it looks like it would be harder to play an awkward individual, over a character who is completely comfortable with their environment and lifestyle. Best parts of the movie were definitely Rudd making up random nicknames for Segel. I also loved that Jon Favreau was in this movie, and his scenes (even though he played an asshole) were all memorable.
Definitely check this movie out if you want a good frat pack flick

The Day The Earth Stood Still (2008), The Day The Earth Stood Still (1951)

2009-01-04T15:05:00.003-05:00

I watched the second version of this film a few weeks before watching the original, and geekishly enjoyed juxtaposing each of the films values, forms and conventions. Both films portray values that are very contemporary at the time of their theatrical release. Issues such as the war in Iraq, and environmentalism take the main stage in depicting humans' vices in the remake, and in the original it is blatant that the cold war is in full force and that the enemy under question is from the Soviet Union. I find it pretty funny that both wars in Iraq and against the Soviet Union have so much in common, it really illustrates how America seems to be at war with someone at any point in time (they just can't get along with everyone).
In terms of visual depiction the remake is as high tech/CGI as you can get. While this does not ruin the experience of watching the movie, I must say I prefer the low fidelity graphics of the original. The graphics are not even that bad in respect to the technology that the filmmakers were dealing with at the time. They are very simple, and a lot of the effectiveness ends up being delivered through the spooky cinematography and eerie music.
The family unit and characters' roles are also different in both films. For example, take the female lead. In the original she is a humble single mother, working as a secretary, who is dating a decent man. In the remake the same character is also a single mother (but the son is not biologically her's), she is a ground breaking scientist, who caries herself with sophistication, and is more focused on her career, than to have a love life. I think this is interesting how vastly the same character has evolved. It certainly is done to illustrate how women have different priorities in their lives now, than they did 60 odd years ago.
In terms of recommending, the original is definitely a classic, and will probably be remembered for a lot longer than the remake. Both were enjoyable in their own capacity, but I say if you have to choose go for the original.

Marley and Me (2008)

2009-01-01T20:56:00.002-05:00

This movie was so sweet and enjoyable. It was also tender and sad, where during several scenes I almost cried.
The story is based on a book, which is based on the true story, predominantly about a man and his dog. What I found interesting is the film seems to so strongly parallel American family values, and does so, so sincerely and at the same time does not come across as contrived one bit. Values such as working hard at a job that you love, but then being able to make career sacrificed in order to raise a family, and also to being true to your spouse. It really felt like they were trying to instill these values into the film's audience (and really what American film doesn't do this?). It may seem that this movie is illustrating how not to raise your dog and how hard it is to train them. But what I got is that this film is really about the bond people create with their pets, and the fact that their pets are truely a part of a family. In the movie, Marley was there through it all, thick and thin. Even though many (if not most) times he was the source of the problem, he really kept the husband and wife together during their difficult times.
What I really liked about this film is that it avoided getting too elaborate or fabricated in it's storyline. The reason probably being that the story is based on true events. I also really liked how the film was very accessible and easy to relate to.
I definitely recommend this film because it can be taken at face value, and you will leave it wanting to hug the closest pooch.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008), The Wrestler (2008), & Hamlet 2 (2008)

2008-12-30T10:45:00.002-05:00

I recently watched all three of these films in one day, and thought it would be poignant to comment on them all together.
All three films were enjoyable and I had been wanting to see each of them for while now. What surprised me is that Slumdog and The Wrestler did not "blow me away" as I thought they would. Both of these films were shown at the Toronto International Film Festival which I worked at (Slumdog being the viewers' choice). And Both have received favourable reviews since being released. So essentially I had some standards going into these two films.
On the other hand, Hamlet 2 was not at the festival, and received mixed reviews, but I walked away from it mildly impressed, crazy.
This probably says a lot more about how I base my criticism on other people's opinions before I see a film, which is pretty lame, ha.
But don't get me wrong, all three films are good, and I recommend each as they deliver great acting from the casts, and in the case of Slumdog and The Wrestler, strong cinematography and mise en scene.

TIFF '08: Part 2

2008-09-22T21:11:00.004-04:00

The second half of the movies I watched:

American Swing
This movie was decent. It was a documentary about the rise and fall of a club in the 70s called Plato's Retreat. Like all self-serving docs this one illustrates the grandeur this club brought, and how people at the time were naive of the implications that were slowly going to arise from frequenting the sexy night club. I think stories like this are great, but at the same time they're so predictable. I'm no documentary expert, but I totally could have called the entire film, from the first 2 minutes. It's a shame there can't be more originality in the documentary form. Content-wise, docs are awesome, and I guess that's why this genre has a good, steady following, but I'd really like it if someone could change it up.

Synecdoche, New York
This was my second favourite movie at the festival. Charlie Kaufman's directorial debut, starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Catherine Keener, I had high hopes for this film, but didn't try to get over-excited. The movie itself was really confusing, but it was so profound and I left feeling so detached and existentially void (yeah man, here lies the big issues) that I know I need to see this movie 2 or 3 more times to try to wrap my head around. While not nearly as abstract as other existential films (perfect example: 2001), it definitely makes you question your mortality, and relationships with people who you are emotionally attached to. In the Q & A after the film Kaufman said how before he started writing the film, he and Spike Jones were thinking about doing an actual "scary movie". I can really see what he means by a scary movie, mortality and loneliness, what two things could realistically be scarier.

Every Little Step
This movie was really enjoyable. The second documentary I saw at the festival, while the form was also pretty predictable as American Swing, the content of this film was really awesome. It's about the audition process of the revival for A Chorus Line. The film gives a history behind the show itself, talks about the original cast, but most of the film follows the struggles and obstacles that faced the performers auditioning. The fact that this was about a musical was reason enough for me to see this film. Anything singing and dancing is pure escapism, and I'm so there. Watching the film, you know that this audition will change their lives, if they get the part. They put so much energy into trying to impress the producers, you just break-up inside, whenever you learn someone else is cut. But at the same time this film is really motivational. These people are trying to live out their dream of performing on Broadway. They have worked so hard, and it makes you want to put more effort into your own endeavours.

Control Alt Delete
This was a very silly film. It's about a film about a guy who is obsessed with internet porn. That being said, this film is also Canadian, so the production value was only decent, and some of the story lines seemed random and incongruent. However, I definitely enjoyed this film. The protagonist is played by a fairly well known Canadian TV actor, which was really cool, and I felt good supporting a Canadian production.

The Rest of the Night
I wasn't too sure on the message of this film, but it was well-made and was a good story. An Italian film about a group of people who are interconnected and are living out their day-to-day lives, seemingly average, and with an average amount of drama. One group is a family who are well to do. They fire their housekeeper on pretenses that she has stolen the wife's jewelry. The housekeeper then goes to her ex-boyfriends house because she needs a place to stay, and he and his friend and brother make up the second group.
Both groups have their own troubles, involving money and their general happiness. The film runs along smoothly, with good pacing and flattering cinematography. The film ends in tragedy, which seems fitting because the film has a very character-driven story, and tragedy tends to end this type of work. Enjoyable to watch.

33 Scenes from Life
This was a sad film from the beginning to end, probably the most depressing film I saw, but it was also inspiring to not take things in life for granted. A Polish film about a woman who is losing her mother to cancer, and is having marital problems. Throughout the entire film the audience is taken along with her, through her emotional hardships. The film was modestly shot, but definitely portrayed the story well.

Uncertainty
This movie can be typecasts as one of those indie-American movies, that has a strong cast, strong story, good cinematography, but will remain under the radar because it is not mainstream enough. The premise is a young couple start the movie off with the dilemma of how to spend their fourth of July. The film portrays two different results that could have occurred in juxtaposition, going back and forth through the whole movie. I thought this was a clever premise. One funny part, the filmmakers obviously knew that the audience would have trouble distinguishing between one story and the other, so to be able to tell which story is being shown present, they had the couple wear green in one story, and yellow in the other. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt and a girl I don't recognize. While I guess there characters were supposed to be young free-spirited/artistic people. A lot of the time the characters just annoyed me. In the story where their lives are being threaten I kept thinking, they could have avoiding all this drama if they just acted like normal people, and not answered the cell phone that wasn't their's.

Biggest Chinese Restaurant in the World
This was an awesome movie literally about the biggest Chinese restaurant in the world. The restaurant is in China, of course, and illustrates the lifestyle and workmanship of Chinese people. The film was made by western European filmmakers, and this is really evident, as the perspective has an outsiders look. A lot of the time the film shows how the workers and servers are pushed to their limits, in order to make end's meat. While this restaurant depicts how the Chinese society has developed over the past few decades, the film shows how there are still a countless number of people who live in poverty. Most of the workers at the restaurant work there so that they can send money home to their families. One scene shows how a server "chose" to stay and work, instead of going home because her mother was sick. Chose is in brackets because it is implied that she would have been fired if she went home.

Patrik Age 1.5
This was the last film I saw at the festival, and it was so cute, and happy, that it was a great note to leave it off, of. The film is about a gay married couple who want nothing more than to adopt a baby. One day they receive a letter saying there is a child waiting for them: Patrik age 1,5. Of course this was a typo, as we soon learn, and Patrik is really 15 years old, and a delinquent. The whole movie is about each of the characters getting over their prejudices toward one another. Patrik has trouble getting over living with a gay couple, and the couple have trouble parenting a troubled youth. This makes the film look out to be some melodramatic soap opera, but it's really not. This was definitely the most family-friendly and accessible movie I saw at the festival.

TIFF '08

2008-09-16T21:10:00.003-04:00

RocknRolla
I enjoyed this film for what it was. It was a Guy Richie wham-bam shoot-em up mobster flick, so if you've seen Snatch or Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, you know what's coming to you if you sit down in front of this film.
Guy Richie is a director I feel indifferent towards. I could do without the incomprehensible English accents his actors have, but his cinematography and editing is so slick I can't turn away, even if the characters are being dunked into a tank of live, starving crayfish. The soundtrack was cool, Gerard Butler was as sexy as ever, but Thandie Newton was annoying as hell. Her body is like a toothpick; I was just waiting for someone to accidentally snap her in half.

O'Horten
I fairly enjoyed this film. It was the complete opposite to my morning film that day, RocknRolla, but I felt O'Horten had a good message. The film was about train conductor as he's about to retire. It shows how his life revolved around his job, and he didn't have much else of a life beyond that. The film follows him as he is picking up the pieces of his life. He visits old acquaintances, he has an awkward unplanned run-in with a 6 year old, and pretty much learns how to spend all his free time. Set in Norway, the landscape really fits the mood of the character. The character of O'Horten didn't seem ready to retire. His job was his identity, and I think anyone can relate to the sense of loss when something significant in your life is over.

Cold Lunch
This was the second Norwegian film I saw at the festival. Lately I've really wanted to visit Scandinavian countries, so I tried to pick movies from this geographic area. Cold Lunch was also a very touching film. The characters all have problems in their lives that they need to come over themselves, but have trouble acknowledging that they have these problems. One girl lived his life isolated in her father's apartment, so then the day he dies, she has trouble having an independent life. One other guy has trouble saving money and being honest to the people around him. He also does not know how to take initiative. Then another lady has a baby, but is in an abusive relationship with his husband, but she is so passive toward him, that she never has the guts to leave him. All these stories are told in vignettes, all separate from one another, but still told over the same time. The ending was pretty disappointing without giving any factual information away, none of the characters learn how to get over their troubles. They are all the same as how they were at the beginning of the movie. I guess this film is trying to say that in essence people don't change, when they don't feel like changing.

Edison and Leo
This movie was really cute. It was the first Canadian movie I watched at the festival and I really enjoyed it. At first thinking it was a children's movie, I was quickly corrected with the obvious display of adult humour and innuendos. The film is a claymation fictional story about Thomas Edison and his son Leo. The humour is pretty ranchy, and it's hilarious watching claymation version of Edison trying to hook up with all these random women. Definitely something to check out for some ridiculous humour, with a random historical twist.

JCVD
This has got to be my favourite film at this years festival. It had most, if not everything that I look for in a film. Satire, action, humour, self-deprecation, good cinematography, good pacing, French language, and an non-Hollywood ending. The premise is Jean-Claude Van Damme plays himself, in a fictional story, where he is being framed for holding up a post-office. Without giving anyway any tasty details, just imagine the possibilities, ha. I really enjoyed this film. It'll be hard to top.

My Mother, My Bride & I
This was a heart touching German film about a middle-aged man who lives with his mother, but it looking for love. He goes through a mail-order service, in neighbouring Romania, and comes back with a charming young lady. The mother and bride have conflicting values, so drama ensues through most of the film.
I really like how this film was shot. No tripods were used, and, as the director said in the Q & A, he made all the shots come from a person's point of view, so at eye level. This perspective gave the film a very natural look and got the audience involved with the film. The actors were very realistic, and gave very good performances. I enjoyed this film also.

Me and Orson Welles
This was a cute film, it wasn't profound in anyway, I didn't learn any of the great misteries of life, but it definitely had some spunk. The story is a high school kids finds himself working on a production of Julius Caesar directed and staring Orson Welles. This is the kid's dream (note: Zac Efron plays the kid, so much of my reason to see this film was to be able to make fun of Efron, in my head, ha).
Overall the film is pretty meh. Props to the guy playing Joseph Cotton. Cotton was an amazing actor back in those days, and it was good to see him represented well today. Clare Danes, playing the love interest was really annoying, but then again, I've never been a fan of hers, something about her mannerisms are just so contrived. The guy playing Orson Welles was decent, but didn't have the grandeur that the real Welles commanded (but hey, that'd be hella hard to duplicate).
Also this film was directed by Richard Linklater, which is the strongest reason why I chose to see this film. He does a fine job; I'd say this is one of his Hollywood films, a la Bad News Bears and Fast Food Nation.

Coopers' Camera
This movie was sooo funny. I can't even think of a word that could describe how funny it was. I honestly laughed for 85% percent of this film, it was great (but I'm sure the packed house of like-minded individuals only encouraged the contagious laugher). The story is of a guy who gets a video camera for Christmas for his family, and the whole film is actually shot with the camera. The film takes place in 1985, so it has a very grainy look, and is pretty much a means of representing anyone's dysfunctional Christmas celebration from back in the day (who didn't have one of those massive camcorders and stalked family members around the house, thinking they were the most creative person in the world...ha) The film is chalk full of talented Canadian actors, which was awesome, and the director is actually from my hometown, which made it ever more cool.
I hope this film gets some distribution, but seeing how it's shot to look like a grainy video, and the star quota isn't really there, the olds are looking slim for some good exhibition of this film. But I definitely recommend this one for some good laughs.

3 Wise Men
This was the weakest film I saw at the festival, sadly. They can't all be winners. The film takes place mostly in a bar, where three old friends are catching up with one another. One of them has just become a father, so they are drinking to celebrate. The pre-bar scenes I found to be disconnected and not explained well. The director, before the movie, said this film only took about 11 days to shoot, and I think that's evident in the quality of the film. I think this story would work very well as a theatre production. The dialogue was strong, but told through the cinematic medium it comes through as very diluted. I was hoping there would be a good message about life, at least toward the end of the film, but that didn't come through. It was an interesting film to watch, but I left feeling unchanged. Ah well, there's always at least one film that doesn't rub you right.

Death Proof (2007)

2008-09-14T16:11:00.001-04:00

I was surprisingly impressed with this movie. I originally had Death Proof pegged as a cheesy thrill-seekers horror movie, and I guess in a way it was, but it really stood up against my preconceived perception of the film.

In essence the film is damn sexy, and I think that’s what Tarantino intended the feel of the movie to be. The girls he chose for his victims and avengers ooze with sexiness. Their hair, their bodies, and their dialogue are all awesome, kudos to Tarantino for casting well.

Another thing I liked about this film, as I mentioned earlier, is the dialogue. Everything is just so snappy, and natural feeling, it’s hard to try to not memorize the lines.

The film nut in me is also gaga over the cinematography, and editing. Tarantino wanted to give Death Proof a vintage old feel to it, as if the celluloid had literally started to fall apart from wear-and-tear, as grind house movies from the 70s experienced. It shows that Tarantino had put the time and energy into setting up his compositions. One of my favourite shots is when the character Arlene a.k.a. Butterfly is having a smoke on the porch of the bar, during a rainstorm. The lighting is just right, as mostly a backfill, and Tarantino does this magnificent slow zoom-in on Arlene as she’s reflecting on the night’s recent events.

The soundtrack is also killer. I needs me to download that mutha.

One funny weakness to the film is Tarantino’s performance as Warren the bartender. What a douchebad. While I did laugh at his line “If Warren says it, we do it”, it really takes away from the general mood that he is trying to set for this movie.

Short Cuts (1993)

2008-08-05T10:40:00.001-04:00

This is a good movie. It is the second time I’ve seen it now, and while it wasn’t as magical as the first time I watched it, it was still quite enjoyable. The movie is told as vignettes of different lives of people who are loosely interconnected, and shows them bumping into one another by chance, as they go through their natural life routine. Paul Thomas Anderson’s Magnolia makes homage to this style, in a glossier, big-budget feel, but it doesn’t beat the originality and subtleness of Short Cuts.
The casting of this film is incredible. It reads as a who’s who in big name Hollywood back in the early to mid-nineties. Special props to Peter Gallagher and Tim Robbins, who, in my opinion, are awesome in this film. Julianna Moore is annoying as hell. Something about that woman, in everything she does, just rubs me the wrong way. In one scene she shows her cooter, nonchalantly, while having a fight with her husband, it’s just a gross sight.
The pacing of Short Cuts is what’s really remarkable about this film. Robert Altman makes the whole film seamless and natural. The film is just over 3 hours, but never is there a particularly boring scene. All scenes seem critical to the development of the film.
I definitely recommend this movie for someone who wants to beef up their film viewing repertoire. While the setting and costume tragically date this film, character motive and trajectory are completely timeless. Altman, in the behind-the-scenes, documentary, describes Short Cuts as a lot of smoking, with a dab of alcoholism, and infidelity. In a way this is what life is for Middle America. None of the characters’ are in anyway extraordinary individuals; they are just people trying to get through life as best they can. But drama sweeps in and inevitably people make selfish, rude responses. This film is pretty much showing how these people aren’t especially prone to swallowing their pride, as is the rest of the human race.

Gandhi (1982)

2008-07-15T09:57:00.000-04:00

Gandhi was a pretty meh movie, and I feel like a jerk for saying it, but Richard Attenborough has no flair has a director. You know when you watch a movie, there’s always at least one aspect that sticks out for you, well in Attenborough’s film is just meat and potatoes. Sure Gandhi was one of the most influential people of the last century, I have read his autobiography, and it changed how I saw the world, but watching the movie, it felt so fictitious. I’ve only seen one other Attenborough film, Chaplain, and got the same feeling from it too; amazing story, but flat direction.
Ben Kingsley was pretty good as Gandhi, but, again I feel like a jerk for saying it, the performance didn’t seem exceptional.
I’m thinking my guilt for writing this negative review is probably due to the subject matter. Gandhi was an incredible person who changed so many people’s lives, therefore it feels wrong to deride anything that is associated with his legacy. Probably that’s what the Academy was thinking when they were handing out the Oscar’s that year.

Steve Carrell: The next Leslie Nielson?

2008-05-14T20:51:00.002-04:00

No review today, but I want to comment on an idea that I haven't read about in the media, but that I found interesting. Steve Carrell is totally the next Leslie Nielson. Major proof available in Carrell's new movie "Get Smart". This movie (from the preview) looks completely like a remake of the Naked Gun Series. The premise is similar, the characters are similiar (including The Rock in the role that would have been played by OJ, so obvious), the major difference being the CGI going on in the background (which may be a flaw in the end for Get Smart).
Getting back to Carrell and Nielson, it's even uncanny that they look similar. The mannerisms are all there.

Cloverfield (2008)

2008-04-28T18:11:00.002-04:00

This movie had almost everything I can enjoy in a horror movie, which is hard to do because the horror genre is the last genre you can find me getting into. The movie was short, clocking in at less than 84 minutes. The story was far-fetched (because I just can't handle the real stuff, I get nightmares). And it took place in a cool location (NYC, rockin!).
The quasi-unique thing about this film, as most viewers would probably agree, is the "hand-held" shooting style. I guess about 95% of this film is done this way. I can't recall any non hand-held shots, but I'm sure there were a couple wide shots inserted seamlessly in order to give the viewer a broader perspective of the scene.
I thought it was really corny that the main dude was so set on finding his love interest who was trapped in her apartment. Chances are she is dead man, but of course the film is usually optimistic and she was alive when they get to her.
Another thing that was dumb was that it took forever for the horror to start. Yeah the young/beauty NYC people know how to throw a house party, yes I'm uber jealous and would love to live in Manhattan with no appearance of the stresses of money and a career. But really, I don't think it takes 15 minutes to get this idea across. Five minutes max and I totally would have gotten the drift.
What the film really had going for it though was that it never explains afterwards what sparked the attack by that crazy monster and where it came from. The film felt like an unfinished alien version of the Blair Witch Project mixed with The Ring. When horror movies give too much information they're just not scary they're hella lame. It's all about the keeping the viewer wondering what the hell is going to happen next, and Cloverfield totally pulled this off.
In essence I recommend this film because it doesn't pretend to be pretentious, it's kind of like a hey, wouldn't it be crazy if this happened, oh and we're going to deliver it from a one person's perspective, so it really gets into your skin. Enjoy!

Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

2008-04-22T21:20:00.002-04:00

This movie was so cute. I really enjoyed it. It's been about 8 months since I first wanted to see this movie. Was there gratification in the delay? Meh, what can I say it was a cute film. I loved the scene where Lars gets upset about how Bianca is too busy to spend an evening playing Scrabble with him, just like a real boy would, hehe.
It's sad and touching that Lars lived such a secluded life. I'm glad the character was able to break out of his shell eventually.
I guess from a critic's more objective point of view the film is pretty formulaic. But I find it hard to admit this because Ryan Gosling is just so dreamy that I melt when he's on screen.
I recommend this movie if you're looking for something kind of light, but touching and all round cute.

No Country for Old Men (2007)

2008-03-22T21:47:00.002-04:00

This was an enjoyable film. Disturbing and horrific with all the fixing of a Thanksgiving dinner, but also subtle and not very graphic. Maybe if it was more graphic it would have been a very different film, and I would be having nightmares, haha.
I was sadly disappointed with the ending, but it didn't wreck the film for me, surprisingly. I think because the ending kind of made sense with what happened through the whole film. I won't spoil anything, I promise. After finishing the film I couldn't think of any big critique, and even question the point of this entry. It was a film in itself. Like a good novel, it delivered what it promised, nothing more, nothing less.
I enjoyed Tommy Lee Jones as the county sheriff. His character reminded me a lot of the character Francis Mcdormand played in Fargo, it was cool seeing it again.
Final verdict: The film is watchable, but I don't think you'd be missing much if you let it pass you by.

Across the Universe (2007)

2008-03-10T18:31:00.002-04:00

Overall this movie was alright. I wasn't expecting much because I had heard mixed reviews, but was really impressed by the cinematography, and also the song choice. A couple of the tunes I didn't recognize, which was nice. For anyone who hasn't heard of this film, it is set in the 60s, a dramatization of the significant events that occurred done as a musical using exclusively Beatles music. The concept is definitely intriguing. This film in the end I found hard to categorize because it's a whole lotta too much going on. I haven't counted, but I'm sure it covers every major film genre. I enjoyed the musical genre of it, and also the coming of age segments, but the war scenes I found too graphic, and a rough juxtaposition after the free spirited first half of the film. Some parts were dumb, like the scene where the young lovers are making out, naked underwater. Yeah it's looks cool with their hair all floaty like, but really, I don't need to see a naked Evan Rachel Wood. That girl has always had a creepy undertone to her, even here, when she plays the sweet innocent American girl.
I say check out this film if you'd like to hear some cool new versions of classic Beatles' tunes. The story is pretty much fluff, but that's understandable, since it totally takes second chair behind the music.

Enchanted (2007)

2008-03-05T14:58:00.002-05:00

I had been wanting to see this movie since it came out, so I grabbed the chance when it was playing as an in-flight movie. I enjoyed this movie for what it was. It's a syrupy tale of fairy tale characters who find themselves thrown into modern day NYC. It was kind of like Borat, for 6 year olds...hilarity at foreigners who have trouble coping with their new environment. I especially loved the fairy tale singing that took place all over the city.
The movie starts out as a cartoon, which was cute, and then when the characters are thrown into NYC it goes to real life. Props to the whole cast, to be honest. I later found out that the main dude's girlfriend was Idina Menzel, none other than the lady who played the Wicked Witch in the stage production of Wicked, way cool...unfortunately she didn't sing one note, what's with that? She totally would have stole the show, which I guess is why they probably cut any parts she might have sang during. James Marsden was so dreamy in a I'm-ignorantly-and-blissfully-in-love-with-my-lady prince, so yeah, ironically creepy, haha
With all this going for it, I was really disappointed with the ending. It does have a happy ending (ah geez, I hope I didn't spoil it for you), but not in the way I wanted it to be. Ah well, it was definitely an enjoyable watch, and good escape from the hunger pains I endured during the beginning of my flight :)

Party Girl (1995)

2008-01-30T19:55:00.000-05:00

A film I had never heard of until the other day, starring Parker Posey is apparently a cult film. Cult film and Parker Posey I had to check it out. I have to say it was alright, Parker has some funny moments but overall I'd say it's a flat film. It's just the feel the film has. It's definitely low-budget, which is obvious in both script and shooting, but it does have a bit of the low-budget charm, just nothing that makes it stand out from every other low-budget film with charm.
The casts wardrobe made this film worth watching. Checking out styles from the mid-90s are hilarious, mostly because this is the style that is coming back right now...so watching it makes it feel I should be taking fashion notes. I think H&M must have watched this movie to get tips, ha.

Let's All Hate Toronto (2007)

2008-01-20T21:19:00.000-05:00

This was a decent documentary about why all of Canada hates the city of Toronto and its people. I personally don't have too much of an outstanding beef with the place, but I found the concept to this film cute. It's pretty much a film you shouldn't take seriously because it pokes fun of itself through and through. I like how they gave my hometown Hamilton credit for hating Toronto the most vehemently, haha...Footage shot at Ivor Wynne stadium was hilarious and totally captures how a local North Hamiltonian behaves...don't be looking in my direction I'm more in the South-Western area :)
The majority of the film is about the protagonist going from coast to coast to learn about why Canadians hate Toronto, and to try and shed some light on their deriding sentiment.
The film doesn't try to be serious political or anything, if anything this film is just about the filmmakers enjoying their trip across Canada and connecting with people from different areas of our country and being silly at the same time. Hey, if I could find funding to do the same, I'd be there in a second.

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

2008-01-20T21:03:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this movie, it was a helluva roller coaster ride. Paul Greengrass really knows what he's doing when it come to the action/thriller genre. Every cut seemed to be flawless, and effortlessly assembled. Maybe if I speak even more in it's praise you'll think I'll bullshit? But it's true, this movie rocks out! Acting was intense too. Props to David Strathairn for being a kickass evil dude! Lady actresses seemed willowy with what they were given, the script totally could have given Julia Stiles at least one scene where she could pistol whip some CIA henchman, but no, her scenes demanded that she looks worried and longingly into Matt Damon's eyes, and then run frantically from her potential killer, what gives!
On an artistic note, I found the colouring very interesting. It comprised mostly blues, cold tones giving the film a very somber feel. Also I really loved the real locations that are used throughout the film. When Damon walks out of the Paris subway station toward the "Gare du Nord" it made me feel special that I had walked up those exact steps around 18 months ago (I totally have something in common with Matt Damon, sweet). Also shots of London were wicked, and make me excited for my upcoming trip there....at least I won't have a sniper looming behind my back, like somebody else.
All in all, I recommend this movie, because it's totally enjoyable, it's a popcorn movie for sure, but it's so thrilling that you'll feel more CIA savvy than before!

Juno (2007)

2008-01-04T22:32:00.000-05:00

I rather enjoyed this film. The beginning half I found annoying with it's clever wit, but by the midway point the dialogue had settle into a more comfortable pace. Juno has a very indie feel to it, which felt very deliberate...I think in the not too future (possibly present) time these "indie" films can be studied for what they represent and portray. There's something predictable about these films. Last year's "indie gem" was Little Miss Sunshine. These are not bad films, but they're just as formulaic, and as more as released I wonder what's the point. Just as the Romantic Comedy genre was ruined by Britney Murphy, Kate Hudson etc, I think the Indie Film will eventually be on the edge of ruin if they keep churning out meatloaf like this.
I guess that was just a tip of the iceburg of my genre criticism, but to be fair Juno is a really enjoyable film. It's well acted, well written, and well directed. Special attention to Jennifer Garner for her role, I really believed her need for a baby. The soundtrack was very catchy, in the indie-genre (I'm-going-to-try-not-to-criticize this); I may buy this next week when it's released. A lot of people have been raving about Michael Cera's performance in this film. Yeah, it's good, but I don't think it's anything extraordinary or different from what he's already done.
Ah well, I say check out this film because you probably will enjoy it. I think I've become jaded because I've seen my share of indie films over the past few years.

Margot at the Wedding (2007)

2008-01-02T21:22:00.000-05:00

Wow, this is one of those movies that is hard to wrap your head around. It was honestly the most melodrama I think I've experienced in a 90 minute stretch. I felt so unnerved by the end of it I pledged I would never act like that around my family. I'm thinking this is director Noah Baumbach's intention because he's no stranger to these situations in his films. It's hard to say I enjoyed this film because the characters are just so erratic and rude, but at the same time it shows such a truthful ugly side of humanity. The portrayals of the characters by the cast was beautifully done with special nods to Jennifer Jason Leigh and John Turturro (who, granted was only there for 5 minutes, but totally rocked it). Jack Black had an unconvincing crying scene, who my friend told me later that's how boy's cry (I still think it was bad acting). Also, aside from that, the only thing that bugged me was the unstable camera composition. I understand maybe Baumbach was trying to illustrate the family's unrest with a shaky cam, but I think it was used cheaply.
The film's ending was really open, in that I was interested to see how the character's resolved their melodrama. Up until the final minutes there was so much that wasn't explained about the actions of the characters. It's interesting how Baumbach uses this lack of information given to pull in the audience with suspense. The film is such a snapshot of these characters' lives that you never get a chance to understand fully their ideas and desires.
I guess I recommend this film if you are interested in a family melodrama case study. Beware feelings of anxiety that may come while watching it.

49th Parallel (1941)

2008-01-01T17:45:00.000-05:00

This is one of those films that you've never heard of before but has a cast and director that ring a bell. It's funny when these kinds of films pop up because they're kind of fringe classics, i guess, because their not on any top movie lists. That being said 49th Parallel is a decently solid film, but understandable not an all-time classic. Directed by Michael Powell who's one of the greatest British directors and with a smart cast, including Laurence Olivier and Leslie Howard, it's almost a surprise this film doesn't get more recognition beyond the film elite. I think what holds this film back is it's too contemporary in it's time. The film takes place during World War II, right before the American's joined the Allies. My brief readings told me this film was made in efforts to convince the American's that they need to join the war. I find this ironic because the film takes place in Canada, and Americans don't share all the same values as Canadians.
Enjoyable scenes in the film: Laurence Olivier playing a French-Canadian fur-trapper was so funny. His accent was ridiculous, but he really got into which was awesome. Leslie Howard playing a Native Indian historian, not caring when the German's threaten to shoot him, but has a hissy fit when they destroy his paintings and literature, haha. Any scene where Canadians are portrayed as defenseless, yet rational human beings who offer any stranger food and lodging whenever they bump into the German's. Now I know we're supposed to be friendly, but I think that image of hospitality is probably pushing it.
Minor inconvenience, the plot dragged on at times, but overall it was a smooth pace.
What I found interesting about this film is that it's a British film portraying Canadian values. I don't think I've seen a film like this before, so it was kind of cool to see how another country sees us besides the awful misrepresentation made by any American films.
I say check out this film is the above subject matter paints your fancy.

Disturbia (2007) & Transformers (2007)

2007-12-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

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.

Feist - December 3, 2007 - Hamilton Place

2007-12-04T15:07:00.000-05:00

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.

Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)

2007-11-24T15:18:00.000-05:00

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.

Freaky Friday (1976)

2007-10-19T09:33:00.000-04:00

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.

The Lives of Others (2006)

2007-10-19T09:15:00.000-04:00

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.

The River (1951)

2007-10-13T09:38:00.000-04:00

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.

Shortbus (2006)

2007-10-08T16:58:00.001-04:00

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.

Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)

2007-10-07T22:25:00.000-04:00

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.

Away From Her (2006)

2007-10-01T19:26:00.000-04:00

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.

Hot Fuzz (2007)

2007-09-30T18:00:00.000-04:00

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!

Mysterious Skin (2004)

2007-09-26T15:28:00.000-04:00

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.

Repulsion (1965)

2007-09-24T22:31:00.000-04:00

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.

Toronto International Film Festival '07 - Part II

2007-09-20T21:11:00.000-04:00

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.

Toronto International Film Festival '07 - Part I

2007-09-20T20:14:00.000-04:00

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).