Review of Super 8 (2011)
Directed by J.J. Abrams
Written by J.J. Abrams
Starring: Joel Courtney, Kyle Chandler, Elle Fanning, Riley Griffiths, Ryan Lee, Gabriel Brasso, Zach Mills, and Ron Eldard
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: Set in the summer of 1979, a group of middle-school aged friends set out to film an 8-track film they want to enter in a film festival, when they witness a mysterious train crash. They attempt to go on with their lives as before, but begin to find things in their small Ohio town becoming stranger and stranger.
Review: To begin, the most impressive part of the movie, even more so than the special effects, was the acting from the young cast. As five best friends, along with newcomer to the group Elle Fanning, they were not only believable, but also hilarious. They delivered their lines with the expertise of seasoned professionals, making all of their interactions as best friends realistic and, quite frankly, very, very funny. Although very suspenseful and scary because of the new strange happenings to the town, the group of friends were still able to keep the audience laughing because of the undeniable each had with their fellow actor, as well as the witty writing from writer/director J.J. Abrams. Not to say this is a comedy, because it definitely is not, but there are some irresistibly funny moments that stood out in the film. And even while the town is being mysteriously ravaged, there is a subplot involving a blossoming (albeit very innocent) romance between Joe and Alice (Joel Courtney and Elle Fanning). Although very cliche, this film has something for everyone. Although at it's heart it is a science-fiction thriller, there are elements of comedy and romance, as well as a pretty good development of the main characters. Overall, this film was highly impressive. It was entertaining throughout, exciting, funny, sad, endearing, and just kind of beautiful. This is definitely a film worth seeing in the theater.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Upcoming Review: Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Review of "Hesher"
Review of Hesher (2010)
Directed by Spencer Susser
Written by Spencer Susser, David Michôd, and Brian Charles Frank
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Devin Brochu, Rainn Wilson, Piper Laurie, and Natalie Portman
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: After the death of his mother, young T.J., confused and feeling alone, meets Hesher, an unpredictable, impulsive man, who seems mean at first, but just may teach him something about life.
Review: Hesher centers around the life of adolescent T.J. (played by an impressive Devin Brochu), a young boy growing up with his father (played by Rainn Wilson) and grandmother (played by Piper Laurie), left depressed and confused after the death of his mother two months before. Unsure of what to do with himself, and attempting to hold on to the last memory of his mother that he has, T.J. desperately tries to get the family car back when his father has to give it away. Because T.J. is angry and upset, he throws a rock through a window of a house he believes to be abandoned, and he meets Hesher.
Hesher (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt), is a metal-loving, long-haired all-around crazy dude. He gets angry with T.J. for breaking the window of his "home" and soon enough, Hesher appears again, now telling T.J. that he must tell his father and grandmother that he is a friend of his. Out of fright, T.J. goes along with it, and Hesher begins living in their house. For T.J., who is already confused and upset, the presence of Hesher is a burden he is not ready to accept. Hesher seems to make T.J.'s life way worse, not better, and T.J. grows increasingly annoyed. Hesher even sees T.J. being picked on by a bully, and just walks away, not even attempting to help T.J.
The idea of Hesher and the way he acts is almost too out there to be believable, but just when the audience believes Hesher really is a terrible person, he does something decent that makes people believe in him again. Although a little strange, the film was quite enjoyable, and newcomer Devin Brochu as T.J. was especially impressive. Joseph Gordon-Levitt impresses as well, playing someone much different than, say, Tom from (500) Days of Summer. Overall, the characters (and of course the actors who play them) are what make this film worth seeing.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: Super 8 (2011)
Directed by Spencer Susser
Written by Spencer Susser, David Michôd, and Brian Charles Frank
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Devin Brochu, Rainn Wilson, Piper Laurie, and Natalie Portman
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: After the death of his mother, young T.J., confused and feeling alone, meets Hesher, an unpredictable, impulsive man, who seems mean at first, but just may teach him something about life.
Review: Hesher centers around the life of adolescent T.J. (played by an impressive Devin Brochu), a young boy growing up with his father (played by Rainn Wilson) and grandmother (played by Piper Laurie), left depressed and confused after the death of his mother two months before. Unsure of what to do with himself, and attempting to hold on to the last memory of his mother that he has, T.J. desperately tries to get the family car back when his father has to give it away. Because T.J. is angry and upset, he throws a rock through a window of a house he believes to be abandoned, and he meets Hesher.
Hesher (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt), is a metal-loving, long-haired all-around crazy dude. He gets angry with T.J. for breaking the window of his "home" and soon enough, Hesher appears again, now telling T.J. that he must tell his father and grandmother that he is a friend of his. Out of fright, T.J. goes along with it, and Hesher begins living in their house. For T.J., who is already confused and upset, the presence of Hesher is a burden he is not ready to accept. Hesher seems to make T.J.'s life way worse, not better, and T.J. grows increasingly annoyed. Hesher even sees T.J. being picked on by a bully, and just walks away, not even attempting to help T.J.
The idea of Hesher and the way he acts is almost too out there to be believable, but just when the audience believes Hesher really is a terrible person, he does something decent that makes people believe in him again. Although a little strange, the film was quite enjoyable, and newcomer Devin Brochu as T.J. was especially impressive. Joseph Gordon-Levitt impresses as well, playing someone much different than, say, Tom from (500) Days of Summer. Overall, the characters (and of course the actors who play them) are what make this film worth seeing.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: Super 8 (2011)
Review of "Pirate Radio"
Pirate Radio (2009)
Directed by Richard Curtis
Written by Richard Curtis
Starring: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Nighy, Nick Frost, Tom Sturridge, Chris O'Dowd, and Rhys Ifans
Synopsis: In the 1960s, when the English government looked down on the newly formed "rock and roll" music, radio broadcasters play rock music from their radio station (Radio Rock) on a ship off the coast of England.
Review: Pirate Radio centers around a group of men who all have one important thing in common: they love rock and roll music. To them, and to the millions of listeners in England, rock music is the coolest, best thing in the world. But to the English government, rock music is "promoting" drugs and sex and sending the people of London the wrong message. The harder the government fights to shut Radio Rock down, the harder the crew fights back to keep rock music alive. Although a little zany and crazy and even at times somewhat unbelievable, this movie was full of funny and sentimental moments that would melt even the toughest critic's heart.
The film also features an impressive cast, with Philip Seymour Hoffman as "The Count" (the lead radio broadcaster), Bill Nighy as the men's adviser of sorts, Nick Frost as an outgoing, goofy broadcaster, and impressive newcomer Tom Sturridge, as a young teenage boy who is sent by his mother to come live with the men on the ship. And considering the time period and the place, the 1960s in England, the music rocks. The soundtrack is full of great tracks from The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Beach Boys, and many other great artists from that time. Overall, Pirate Radio is a feel-good film with an amazing soundtrack, something to see for music lovers or someone looking for a good comedy.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: Hesher (2010)
Directed by Richard Curtis
Written by Richard Curtis
Starring: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Nighy, Nick Frost, Tom Sturridge, Chris O'Dowd, and Rhys Ifans
Synopsis: In the 1960s, when the English government looked down on the newly formed "rock and roll" music, radio broadcasters play rock music from their radio station (Radio Rock) on a ship off the coast of England.
Review: Pirate Radio centers around a group of men who all have one important thing in common: they love rock and roll music. To them, and to the millions of listeners in England, rock music is the coolest, best thing in the world. But to the English government, rock music is "promoting" drugs and sex and sending the people of London the wrong message. The harder the government fights to shut Radio Rock down, the harder the crew fights back to keep rock music alive. Although a little zany and crazy and even at times somewhat unbelievable, this movie was full of funny and sentimental moments that would melt even the toughest critic's heart.
The film also features an impressive cast, with Philip Seymour Hoffman as "The Count" (the lead radio broadcaster), Bill Nighy as the men's adviser of sorts, Nick Frost as an outgoing, goofy broadcaster, and impressive newcomer Tom Sturridge, as a young teenage boy who is sent by his mother to come live with the men on the ship. And considering the time period and the place, the 1960s in England, the music rocks. The soundtrack is full of great tracks from The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Beach Boys, and many other great artists from that time. Overall, Pirate Radio is a feel-good film with an amazing soundtrack, something to see for music lovers or someone looking for a good comedy.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: Hesher (2010)
Review of "Somewhere"
Somewhere (2010)
Directed by Sofia Coppola
Written by Sofia Coppola
Starring: Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When a young eleven-year-old girl unexpectedly comes to stay with her father, a successful, albeit unreliable man, he is forced to confront what is important to him in his life.
Review: In Sofia Coppola's Somewhere, Johnny Marco (played by Stephen Dorff) is a laid back, middle-age actor, essentially floating through life without any concerns about his life passing him by. That is, until his 11 year old daughter, Cleo (played by Elle Fanning), comes into his life, and has to stay with him for a few weeks. Although the movie is very subtle and slow-moving (with long shots of Dorff and Fanning sitting by a pool together, driving in a car, etc.), the intended message becomes clear.
The presence of Marco's daughter in his life forces him to examine his life thus far, and to re-determine his priorities. The characters are portrayed in a simple, realistic way that helps the viewer understand and feel for the father and daughter, and hope that their relationship will continue to grow, even if Cleo goes back to live with her mother. Overall, Somewhere was a well-written, simplistic film that did very well at showing the audience a seemingly real relationship between a father and a daughter, a relationship where not everything is perfect, but somehow we know that Johnny will stick with his kid.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Upcoming Review: Pirate Radio (2009)
Directed by Sofia Coppola
Written by Sofia Coppola
Starring: Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When a young eleven-year-old girl unexpectedly comes to stay with her father, a successful, albeit unreliable man, he is forced to confront what is important to him in his life.
Review: In Sofia Coppola's Somewhere, Johnny Marco (played by Stephen Dorff) is a laid back, middle-age actor, essentially floating through life without any concerns about his life passing him by. That is, until his 11 year old daughter, Cleo (played by Elle Fanning), comes into his life, and has to stay with him for a few weeks. Although the movie is very subtle and slow-moving (with long shots of Dorff and Fanning sitting by a pool together, driving in a car, etc.), the intended message becomes clear.
The presence of Marco's daughter in his life forces him to examine his life thus far, and to re-determine his priorities. The characters are portrayed in a simple, realistic way that helps the viewer understand and feel for the father and daughter, and hope that their relationship will continue to grow, even if Cleo goes back to live with her mother. Overall, Somewhere was a well-written, simplistic film that did very well at showing the audience a seemingly real relationship between a father and a daughter, a relationship where not everything is perfect, but somehow we know that Johnny will stick with his kid.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Upcoming Review: Pirate Radio (2009)
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Sorry
I'm sorry I haven't been updating and continuously writing reviews. I originally planned to do so, but it became too difficult. Now that it's summer I will attempt to write more reviews. And I did see "Somewhere," which I planned to review next, but since it's been a few months I will probably skip writing a full review and only write a short review on the parts of the movie I remember thoroughly. I also recently saw the film "Hesher," starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt as a metal loving, long-haired, somewhat crazy badass. I also plan on seeing "Super 8" and "Midnight in Paris" soon, both of which I intend on reviewing. Until I post my mini-review for "Somewhere," have fun at the movies!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Review of "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World"
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
Directed by: Edgar Wright
Written by: Michael Bacall and Edgar Wright
Based on the graphic novels by Bryan Lee O'Malley
Starring: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin, Mark Webber, Johnny Simmons, Alison Pill, Ellen Wong, and Anna Kendrick
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: Scott Pilgrim is just an average 22 year old in a band, although at the moment he's living a less than exciting life, and has a 17 year old girlfriend. That is, until he meets Ramona Flowers, the girl he believes he's been waiting for. The only problem now is: to be with Ramona, he has to defeat her 7 evil exes.
Review: Michael Cera, in his usual charming way, really comes alive in this film. He is generally type-cast as an awkward, nerdy type, which he somewhat is in this film, but at the same time, he's different in this one. Like he does in Youth in Revolt, Cera gets the opportunity to show off his badass side. Along with Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead (as Ramona Flowers, the girl Pilgrim pines for) is comedic, but in an understated, subtle way. Her nonchalant attitude, but awesome personality, pulls Pilgrim in. Kieran Culkin (as Pilgrim's roommate), Johnny Simmons (as Pilgrim's sort-of-bandmate), Allison Pill (Pilgrim's bandmate), Ellen Wong (Pilgrim's 17 year old girlfriend), Aubrey Plaza (cashier), and Anna Kendrick (Pilgrim's sister) also give good comedic performances.
This movie is also very interesting because of the way it is presented. Pilgrim's life is shown as if it were a video game, such as when he defeats Ramona's first evil ex, and he breaks up in to tons of gold coins. Little touches like that, as well as some awesome one-liners ("Back off hasbien!," "I'll leave you alone forever now," and "Bye and stuff") make the movie even more unique and enjoyable to watch.
Overall, this is a really fun movie. I view it as a refreshing take on a romantic adventure story. And unlike typical romantic comedies, this one's a little more interesting. The premise (having to defeat Ramona's seven evil exes) and the originality in the characters gives the tired genre a little pizazz. Even if one's not into romantic comedies, you may be attracted to this movie for it's comedic appeal, or you may like it just because you like video games.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Next Review: Probably Somewhere (2010)
Directed by: Edgar Wright
Written by: Michael Bacall and Edgar Wright
Based on the graphic novels by Bryan Lee O'Malley
Starring: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin, Mark Webber, Johnny Simmons, Alison Pill, Ellen Wong, and Anna Kendrick
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: Scott Pilgrim is just an average 22 year old in a band, although at the moment he's living a less than exciting life, and has a 17 year old girlfriend. That is, until he meets Ramona Flowers, the girl he believes he's been waiting for. The only problem now is: to be with Ramona, he has to defeat her 7 evil exes.
Review: Michael Cera, in his usual charming way, really comes alive in this film. He is generally type-cast as an awkward, nerdy type, which he somewhat is in this film, but at the same time, he's different in this one. Like he does in Youth in Revolt, Cera gets the opportunity to show off his badass side. Along with Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead (as Ramona Flowers, the girl Pilgrim pines for) is comedic, but in an understated, subtle way. Her nonchalant attitude, but awesome personality, pulls Pilgrim in. Kieran Culkin (as Pilgrim's roommate), Johnny Simmons (as Pilgrim's sort-of-bandmate), Allison Pill (Pilgrim's bandmate), Ellen Wong (Pilgrim's 17 year old girlfriend), Aubrey Plaza (cashier), and Anna Kendrick (Pilgrim's sister) also give good comedic performances.
This movie is also very interesting because of the way it is presented. Pilgrim's life is shown as if it were a video game, such as when he defeats Ramona's first evil ex, and he breaks up in to tons of gold coins. Little touches like that, as well as some awesome one-liners ("Back off hasbien!," "I'll leave you alone forever now," and "Bye and stuff") make the movie even more unique and enjoyable to watch.
Overall, this is a really fun movie. I view it as a refreshing take on a romantic adventure story. And unlike typical romantic comedies, this one's a little more interesting. The premise (having to defeat Ramona's seven evil exes) and the originality in the characters gives the tired genre a little pizazz. Even if one's not into romantic comedies, you may be attracted to this movie for it's comedic appeal, or you may like it just because you like video games.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Next Review: Probably Somewhere (2010)
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" Review
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Directed by: Julian Schnabel
Written by: Ronald Harwood
Based on the novel of the same name by Jean-Dominique Bauby
Starring: Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner, Marie-Josée Croze, Anne Consigny, Max von Sydow, Olatz López Garmendia, and Patrick Chesnais
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When successful, rich magazine editor Jean-Dominique Bauby (also known as Jean-Do) has a massive stroke at 42 years of age, he has the terrible misfortune of getting locked-in syndrome, a syndrome that leaves its victims paralyzed from head to toe.
Review: To begin, I'd like to say that this was a beautiful story. All the camera work by Janusz Kaminski is wonderful. For a good part of the movie, we are seeing the world through Jean-Do's eyes, beginning when he wakes up in the hospital and two different doctors tell him two totally different versions of his condition. While one tells him that he'll be fine and that his speech will come back, the other tells him the the disheartening truth: he's paralyzed from head to toe and is not able to speak. To make matters worse, his right eye has to be sewn up because it's septic and is in danger of infection. At first, the viewer feels absolutely devastated for Jean-Do, and he feels immense pity for himself. Again, the camera work and effects are absolutely divine.
Fortunately, Jean-Do has people there who want to work with him to better his situation. One of his nurses who is hired to help him with his speech comes up with a method of speaking for Jean-Do, where he has to blink his left eye to convey messages to people. The nurse reads Jean-Do a chart of all of the letters in the alphabet (beginning with the most common letter) and he has to blink when the correct letter is said. This happens over and over until Jean-Do's conveyed message is told. I don't know if it's just me, but this method of communication is absolutely incredible. Before this movie, I'd never heard of anything like it. Although it would be extremely difficult to only be able to communicate with others through your left eye, it's comforting to know that it's possible.
In addition to showing Jean-Do's life in the hospital, there are scenes from his life before the stroke, such as when he goes to a photoshoot and the viewer can see his glamorous life as Elle magazine editor, when he goes to visit his ex-wife and his three children, and a scene where he gives his father a shave and they discuss Jean-Do's future endeavors in life. These scenes are also particularly devastating, maybe even more so than the scenes of Jean-Do in the hospital. They are devastating because the viewer gets a glimpse into the life Jean-Do had before his stroke, all the possibilities and opportunities he could've had or taken before his ultimate fate.
Although the viewer may believe that the hospital scenes would be boring and just plain depressing to watch, they are actually quite interesting. These scenes serve to show how Jean-Do handles his new life and the difficulties he has to go through just to live with a paralyzed body. Although this sounds really depressing, it's actually really uplifting. Even with his condition, Jean-Do ends up writing a book about his experience.
In addition to the excellent camera work and plot, the soundtrack was superb. I practically jumped for joy upon realizing they used the instrumentals from The Velvet Underground's "Pale Blue Eyes." I also enjoyed all of the beautiful French music.
I was also impressed by the performances of the actors, especially Jean-Do (played by Mathieu Amalric), and his ex-wife (played by Emmanuelle Seigner), as well as the doctor (played by Patrick Chesnais) who tells Jean-Do the dire situation of his condition. I also have to give immense kudos to the actors for being able act so well while looking directly at the camera (so the audience is seeing through Jean-Do's eyes).
Overall, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is an absolutely beautiful, inspiring film. It's one of the best of the decade.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Upcoming Review: Most likely Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
Directed by: Julian Schnabel
Written by: Ronald Harwood
Based on the novel of the same name by Jean-Dominique Bauby
Starring: Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner, Marie-Josée Croze, Anne Consigny, Max von Sydow, Olatz López Garmendia, and Patrick Chesnais
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When successful, rich magazine editor Jean-Dominique Bauby (also known as Jean-Do) has a massive stroke at 42 years of age, he has the terrible misfortune of getting locked-in syndrome, a syndrome that leaves its victims paralyzed from head to toe.
Review: To begin, I'd like to say that this was a beautiful story. All the camera work by Janusz Kaminski is wonderful. For a good part of the movie, we are seeing the world through Jean-Do's eyes, beginning when he wakes up in the hospital and two different doctors tell him two totally different versions of his condition. While one tells him that he'll be fine and that his speech will come back, the other tells him the the disheartening truth: he's paralyzed from head to toe and is not able to speak. To make matters worse, his right eye has to be sewn up because it's septic and is in danger of infection. At first, the viewer feels absolutely devastated for Jean-Do, and he feels immense pity for himself. Again, the camera work and effects are absolutely divine.
Fortunately, Jean-Do has people there who want to work with him to better his situation. One of his nurses who is hired to help him with his speech comes up with a method of speaking for Jean-Do, where he has to blink his left eye to convey messages to people. The nurse reads Jean-Do a chart of all of the letters in the alphabet (beginning with the most common letter) and he has to blink when the correct letter is said. This happens over and over until Jean-Do's conveyed message is told. I don't know if it's just me, but this method of communication is absolutely incredible. Before this movie, I'd never heard of anything like it. Although it would be extremely difficult to only be able to communicate with others through your left eye, it's comforting to know that it's possible.
In addition to showing Jean-Do's life in the hospital, there are scenes from his life before the stroke, such as when he goes to a photoshoot and the viewer can see his glamorous life as Elle magazine editor, when he goes to visit his ex-wife and his three children, and a scene where he gives his father a shave and they discuss Jean-Do's future endeavors in life. These scenes are also particularly devastating, maybe even more so than the scenes of Jean-Do in the hospital. They are devastating because the viewer gets a glimpse into the life Jean-Do had before his stroke, all the possibilities and opportunities he could've had or taken before his ultimate fate.
Although the viewer may believe that the hospital scenes would be boring and just plain depressing to watch, they are actually quite interesting. These scenes serve to show how Jean-Do handles his new life and the difficulties he has to go through just to live with a paralyzed body. Although this sounds really depressing, it's actually really uplifting. Even with his condition, Jean-Do ends up writing a book about his experience.
In addition to the excellent camera work and plot, the soundtrack was superb. I practically jumped for joy upon realizing they used the instrumentals from The Velvet Underground's "Pale Blue Eyes." I also enjoyed all of the beautiful French music.
I was also impressed by the performances of the actors, especially Jean-Do (played by Mathieu Amalric), and his ex-wife (played by Emmanuelle Seigner), as well as the doctor (played by Patrick Chesnais) who tells Jean-Do the dire situation of his condition. I also have to give immense kudos to the actors for being able act so well while looking directly at the camera (so the audience is seeing through Jean-Do's eyes).
Overall, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is an absolutely beautiful, inspiring film. It's one of the best of the decade.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Upcoming Review: Most likely Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
Friday, February 11, 2011
Review of "Blue Valentine"
Blue Valentine (2010)
Directed by Derek Cianfrance
Written by Derek Cianfrance, Cami Delavigne, and Joey Curtis
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: The story follows young lovers Dean and Cindy, from their first meetings and falling in love, all the way up to their failing marriage.
Review: I have to begin by saying that this is one of the most realistic portrayals of a relationship that I've ever seen on film. Dean and Cindy's love unfolds as expected in the beginning (it's new, so the two people are so infatuated with each other), but rather than making it a silly, predictable romance, Cianfrance does something great here (in our world of silly romantic comedies, this could maybe even be profound), he decides to show Dean and Cindy's relationship in a way that is actually realistic to what happens to couples in the real world. They get annoyed with each other, they get sick of each other, they try to get back together. Numerous attempts are made to reconcile their relationship. The ups and downs the two go through will probably make couples in the audience feel like they could be watching themselves on screen at times. Although all relationships have their own problems, most couples will be able to relate at least somewhat to Dean and Cindy.
The performances from Williams and Gosling are also near-perfect. I honestly cannot understand why Gosling wasn't nominated for an Oscar. His portrayal of Dean, both young and old Dean, is absolutely fantastic. From his crying at the table when he is dealing with the death of their dog, to when he and Cindy are fighting at her job and he actually gets really angry, I believed every minute. Williams was also great; she was entirely believable as a confused wife and mother, whose not completely sure what she's supposed to be doing with her life.
For me, this was one of the best movies of the year. I'm not sure why it didn't get an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. Every scene was realistic, poignant, and just plain beautiful. The story also stays fresh with the nontraditional way it is told, the first scene being the current state of their relationship and flashing backwards, and then flashing forward again. Telling their story in a random order illustrates to the audience the rise and fall of their relationship in a new way.
Although I've recommended most of the movies that I've reviewed recently, I'm adamant about this one. Please, please, please go see "Blue Valentine." It's wonderful. I've never seen anything quite like it.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Directed by Derek Cianfrance
Written by Derek Cianfrance, Cami Delavigne, and Joey Curtis
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: The story follows young lovers Dean and Cindy, from their first meetings and falling in love, all the way up to their failing marriage.
Review: I have to begin by saying that this is one of the most realistic portrayals of a relationship that I've ever seen on film. Dean and Cindy's love unfolds as expected in the beginning (it's new, so the two people are so infatuated with each other), but rather than making it a silly, predictable romance, Cianfrance does something great here (in our world of silly romantic comedies, this could maybe even be profound), he decides to show Dean and Cindy's relationship in a way that is actually realistic to what happens to couples in the real world. They get annoyed with each other, they get sick of each other, they try to get back together. Numerous attempts are made to reconcile their relationship. The ups and downs the two go through will probably make couples in the audience feel like they could be watching themselves on screen at times. Although all relationships have their own problems, most couples will be able to relate at least somewhat to Dean and Cindy.
The performances from Williams and Gosling are also near-perfect. I honestly cannot understand why Gosling wasn't nominated for an Oscar. His portrayal of Dean, both young and old Dean, is absolutely fantastic. From his crying at the table when he is dealing with the death of their dog, to when he and Cindy are fighting at her job and he actually gets really angry, I believed every minute. Williams was also great; she was entirely believable as a confused wife and mother, whose not completely sure what she's supposed to be doing with her life.
For me, this was one of the best movies of the year. I'm not sure why it didn't get an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. Every scene was realistic, poignant, and just plain beautiful. The story also stays fresh with the nontraditional way it is told, the first scene being the current state of their relationship and flashing backwards, and then flashing forward again. Telling their story in a random order illustrates to the audience the rise and fall of their relationship in a new way.
Although I've recommended most of the movies that I've reviewed recently, I'm adamant about this one. Please, please, please go see "Blue Valentine." It's wonderful. I've never seen anything quite like it.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
"It's Kind Of A Funny Story" Review
It's Kind of a Funny Story (2010)
Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck
Written by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck
Based on the novel "It's Kind Of A Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
Starring: Keir Gilchrist, Emma Roberts, Zach Galifianiakis
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When the pressure of grades, girls, and the world in general becomes too much for 16-year-old Craig to handle, he decides to check himself into a mental ward, where he meets a mentor of sorts and a girl who understands him.
Review: While the synopsis makes the film sound kind of boring, it's exactly the opposite. The story of Craig's process from feeling like he's going to die to him wanting to just get out in the world and live, is completely interesting, uplifting, and enjoyable to watch for anyone, but especially teenagers, who will have a tendency to relate to Craig.
The colorful characters Craig meets in the mental ward also bring that extra special pop to the movie, specifically Bobby (Zach Galifianakis), and Noelle (Emma Roberts). As usual, Galifianakis is hilarious in that way only he can be, with his bizarre-but-super-funny one-liners ("I smell like a hobo's bandaid"). But he's not only there for comedic relief, he is also very serious at times, and even brings some dark undertones to the film. Emma Robert is also impressive as Noelle, a girl who baffles while at the same time intrigues Craig. Newcomer Keir Gilchrist who plays Craig is also impressive. For a relatively new actor, I can tell he knows what he's doing. For me, the three main actors' performances made the characters really likeable.
The screenplay from Boden and Fleck was also well-done. Although I haven't fully read Vizzini's book, and cannot say if it was a good adaptation of that, I think the writing was humorous and witty. Even while in serious situations, there were some hilarious parts that I have to give credit to the writers for coming up with.
As well as the acting and writing, the soundtrack was superb. I loved the placement of White Hinterland's "Icarus," as well as the XX's "Intro."
If you'd like to see a good, uplifting movie, or if you're a fan of Ned Vizzini's novel, I'd say check this out!
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck
Written by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck
Based on the novel "It's Kind Of A Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
Starring: Keir Gilchrist, Emma Roberts, Zach Galifianiakis
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When the pressure of grades, girls, and the world in general becomes too much for 16-year-old Craig to handle, he decides to check himself into a mental ward, where he meets a mentor of sorts and a girl who understands him.
Review: While the synopsis makes the film sound kind of boring, it's exactly the opposite. The story of Craig's process from feeling like he's going to die to him wanting to just get out in the world and live, is completely interesting, uplifting, and enjoyable to watch for anyone, but especially teenagers, who will have a tendency to relate to Craig.
The colorful characters Craig meets in the mental ward also bring that extra special pop to the movie, specifically Bobby (Zach Galifianakis), and Noelle (Emma Roberts). As usual, Galifianakis is hilarious in that way only he can be, with his bizarre-but-super-funny one-liners ("I smell like a hobo's bandaid"). But he's not only there for comedic relief, he is also very serious at times, and even brings some dark undertones to the film. Emma Robert is also impressive as Noelle, a girl who baffles while at the same time intrigues Craig. Newcomer Keir Gilchrist who plays Craig is also impressive. For a relatively new actor, I can tell he knows what he's doing. For me, the three main actors' performances made the characters really likeable.
The screenplay from Boden and Fleck was also well-done. Although I haven't fully read Vizzini's book, and cannot say if it was a good adaptation of that, I think the writing was humorous and witty. Even while in serious situations, there were some hilarious parts that I have to give credit to the writers for coming up with.
As well as the acting and writing, the soundtrack was superb. I loved the placement of White Hinterland's "Icarus," as well as the XX's "Intro."
If you'd like to see a good, uplifting movie, or if you're a fan of Ned Vizzini's novel, I'd say check this out!
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Review of "The Social Network"
The Social Network (2010)
Directed by David Fincher
Written by Aaron Sorkin
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Armie Hammer, Justin Timberlake, Max Minghella, Rooney Mara, and Rashida Jones
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: Beginning all the way back at Harvard University, where the creator of Facebook attended school, this is an in depth look at how internet phenomenon Facebook came to be.
Review: This is the story (albeit slightly fictional) of Mark Zuckerberg (the creator of Facebook). I could already tell I was going to like this movie when the opening scene came on the screen. The movie begins with Zuckerberg and his then-girlfriend at a bar, talking at lightning speed about Zuckerberg’s obsession with getting into a final club. This is also the moment when Zuckerberg’s soon-to-be ex-girlfriend delivers the wonderful line: “Dating you is like dating a Stairmaster!” She says this because it is so tiring talking to Zuckerberg, he is so smart and always steers the conversation to something interesting, and the person talking to him never gets a second to breathe. He’s always thinking. The Stairmaster line is one of many great one-liners in this incredible movie.
Since I’m already talking about the writing, I may as well give my props to Aaron Sorkin now—the screenplay is absolutely superb. Every scene, the dialogue is right on. After seeing this movie for a second time, I realized how much I missed the first viewing. This is definitely a movie you should see more than once. The actors are speaking back and forth so fast it’s hard to keep up at times, but this is exactly what draws me to the movie, the fact that you have to keep up. It’s far from condescending; instead of assuming the audience is dumb (which is what a lot of movies tend to do these days), it assumes that the audience is intelligent, and will know exactly what’s going on. This is a credit to director David Fincher, who knows how to make a scene really resonate (which is also obvious from his previous films, such as Se7en, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and Fight Club).
In addition to the wonderful writing, the actors who bring it to life are spot-on as well. Jesse Eisenberg delivers his lines with such great timing I almost just had to laugh at how good it was. I was especially blown away by one particular court room scene, when the opposing lawyer asks Zuckerberg if he has his attention, and Eisenberg delivers his lines with a completely straight face, telling the lawyer that he only has the minimum amount of his attention. The supporting actors deliver as well: Andrew Garfield is very believable as Zuckerberg’s former best friend and co-owner of Facebook. Armie Hammer is brilliant, playing both of the Winklevoss twins (who Zuckerberg collectively calls the “Winklevi”), who accuse Zuckerberg of stealing their idea of “Facebook.” Justin Timberlake is terrifyingly good as the manipulative, charming Sean Parker, owner of internet giant Napster and Zuckerberg’s soon-to-be business partner, who slyly slips in on Facebook’s giant success without Saverin’s knowledge.
Even the bit parts, such as Rooney Mara’s portrayal of Zuckerberg’s girlfriend Erica, Max Minghella’s portrayal of the Winklevoss’s friend Divya, and Rashida Jones as a worker in the law firm named Marylin Delpy, are great.
I’ve been watching the all the award shows lately, and while watching them I remember thinking, “I know The Social Network is good, but I don’t know if it’s good enough to win Best Picture at all the shows.” But now I know that it is: after seeing it for a second time, I now believe it’s worthy of a Best Picture win at the Oscars. It’s such an interesting, fascinating movie that never gets boring and never feels like it’s running too long. If you haven’t seen The Social Network, please give it a shot. And if you have, see it again; it’s definitely worth a second viewing. The writing, acting, and directing are truly phenomenal.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Friday, January 21, 2011
Review of "The Girl Next Door"
The Girl Next Door (2004)
Directed by Luke Greenfield
Written by David Wagner, Brent Goldberg, and Stuart Blumberg
Starring Emile Hirsch, Elisha Cuthbert, Timothy Olyphant, Chris Marquette, and Paul Dano
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: A nerdy, reserved, and naive senior is about to graduate high school, when he realizes that nothing exciting has ever happened in his entire life. The second he realizes this, an insanely beautiful woman moves in next door.
Review: Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch) is just an innocent, honor-roll receivin' kid whose only real interest is to graduate high school and go to his dream college: Georgetown. Although getting good grades in school and just waiting until he can go to college was satisfying for awhile, now he is becoming restless for something exciting to happen in his life. He gets just that when a beautiful woman moves next door, and when she catches him watching her get undressed from his bedroom window, she decides to come over and introduce herself. His parents tell him to show Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert) around town, and that first night they get to know each other pretty well, atleast on Danielle's behalf. To get back at him for seeing her almost naked, she tricks him into getting out of her car and stripping in the street, and then she drives off, leaving him there with no clothes. For Matthew and Danielle, this is just the beginning of their tumultuous, but hilarious, relationship. All of this is new to Matthew, and he's just along for the ride, going along whatever crazy idea Danielle comes up with next. To make things even more interesting, Matthew finds out from his porn-obsessed best friend that Danielle is a porn-star.
Although initially wary of his new girlfriend's porn-star status, Matthew realizes that he doesn't care what she does. The only problem now is that she has to leave for Las Vegas for a porn convention, and then to possibly do more work, which means she won't be Matthew's neighbor anymore. Now, Matthew has to convince Danielle to quit the adult movie business, which means he has to go toe-to-toe with Kelly, (Timothy Olyphant) Danielle's manager, who wants her to continue with this business, because he believes she will be the next big thing in porn flicks. So now Matthew's life is really interesting: he has to balance school and grades and an upcoming scholarship speech with a porn-star girlfriend and a manager who quite possibly wants to kill him.
Although this movie may sound really raunchy, it's actually very endearing and sweet. And although it's not very believable, it's fun to believe something like this would happen. An innocent 17 year old boy falls in love with a not-so-innocent 19 year old porn-star girl, and it just works. It's cheesy and funny and kind of makes you want to roll your eyes, but you don't because you're too busy smiling at the fact that a teen movie can actually be kind of cool.
Along with Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, this is a teen movie you may actually want to check out.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Upcoming Review: Still The Social Network
Directed by Luke Greenfield
Written by David Wagner, Brent Goldberg, and Stuart Blumberg
Starring Emile Hirsch, Elisha Cuthbert, Timothy Olyphant, Chris Marquette, and Paul Dano
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: A nerdy, reserved, and naive senior is about to graduate high school, when he realizes that nothing exciting has ever happened in his entire life. The second he realizes this, an insanely beautiful woman moves in next door.
Review: Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch) is just an innocent, honor-roll receivin' kid whose only real interest is to graduate high school and go to his dream college: Georgetown. Although getting good grades in school and just waiting until he can go to college was satisfying for awhile, now he is becoming restless for something exciting to happen in his life. He gets just that when a beautiful woman moves next door, and when she catches him watching her get undressed from his bedroom window, she decides to come over and introduce herself. His parents tell him to show Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert) around town, and that first night they get to know each other pretty well, atleast on Danielle's behalf. To get back at him for seeing her almost naked, she tricks him into getting out of her car and stripping in the street, and then she drives off, leaving him there with no clothes. For Matthew and Danielle, this is just the beginning of their tumultuous, but hilarious, relationship. All of this is new to Matthew, and he's just along for the ride, going along whatever crazy idea Danielle comes up with next. To make things even more interesting, Matthew finds out from his porn-obsessed best friend that Danielle is a porn-star.
Although initially wary of his new girlfriend's porn-star status, Matthew realizes that he doesn't care what she does. The only problem now is that she has to leave for Las Vegas for a porn convention, and then to possibly do more work, which means she won't be Matthew's neighbor anymore. Now, Matthew has to convince Danielle to quit the adult movie business, which means he has to go toe-to-toe with Kelly, (Timothy Olyphant) Danielle's manager, who wants her to continue with this business, because he believes she will be the next big thing in porn flicks. So now Matthew's life is really interesting: he has to balance school and grades and an upcoming scholarship speech with a porn-star girlfriend and a manager who quite possibly wants to kill him.
Although this movie may sound really raunchy, it's actually very endearing and sweet. And although it's not very believable, it's fun to believe something like this would happen. An innocent 17 year old boy falls in love with a not-so-innocent 19 year old porn-star girl, and it just works. It's cheesy and funny and kind of makes you want to roll your eyes, but you don't because you're too busy smiling at the fact that a teen movie can actually be kind of cool.
Along with Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, this is a teen movie you may actually want to check out.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Upcoming Review: Still The Social Network
Review of "Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist"
Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist (2008)
Directed by Peter Sollett
Screenplay written by Lorena Scafaria
Based on the novel Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
Starring Michael Cera, Kat Dennings, Aaron Yoo, Rafi Gavron, and Ari Graynor
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: While trying to get over his ex, Tris, Nick goes to play a show with his band, only to find that Tris is at the show. Tris also knows a girl named Norah, who also happens to be at the show. Because Tris tries to embarrass Norah about not having a boyfriend, Norah resorts to pretending Nick is her boyfriend, without even knowing that this same Nick is Tris's ex. Because of Norah's momentary lapse of embarrassment, Nick & Norah meet and go on an all-night adventure. It's sometimes crazy, sometimes hilarious, sometimes absurd, but always awesome.
Review: If you go into watching Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist with the idea that it's going to be a typical teen comedy, you will be pleasantly surprised. Although it has it's cliche teen moments, it's much more than that.
With Michael Cera and Kat Dennings playing Nick & Norah, two witty, music-loving teens, the movie feels surprisingly original. In fact, all of the supporting characters seem pretty original, too. Starting with Nick's band, The Jerk Offs, which consists of Nick and his two laid back, down for anything gay friends, Thom and Dev, to Nick's inconsiderate ex Tris, to Norah's drunk friend, Caroline. All bring their own crazy personalities to every scene they're in, and as the movie goes on, all the craziness just gets more and more enjoyable to watch.
After Nick & Norah's initially awkward meeting, Norah is about to leave when Nick's friends decide to put them together in Nick's car and send them off on an all-night New York City adventure, in the hopes of getting Nick over Tris and into Norah. Norah goes along, but only because her and Nick are both out to find the secret show their favorite band is playing, Where's Fluffy?
On a journey to find their favorite band, craziness ensues at just about every stop, from trying to relocate Norah's drunk friend when Nick's band-mates lose her to Norah punching Nick in the throat when things go (temporarily) awry between the two. With a fitting soundtrack and a super fun plot, and great performances from the cast, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist is worth checking out. As mentioned before, it is not a typical teen movie. It's a lot smarter and a lot more funny.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: The Social Network (2010)
Directed by Peter Sollett
Screenplay written by Lorena Scafaria
Based on the novel Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
Starring Michael Cera, Kat Dennings, Aaron Yoo, Rafi Gavron, and Ari Graynor
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: While trying to get over his ex, Tris, Nick goes to play a show with his band, only to find that Tris is at the show. Tris also knows a girl named Norah, who also happens to be at the show. Because Tris tries to embarrass Norah about not having a boyfriend, Norah resorts to pretending Nick is her boyfriend, without even knowing that this same Nick is Tris's ex. Because of Norah's momentary lapse of embarrassment, Nick & Norah meet and go on an all-night adventure. It's sometimes crazy, sometimes hilarious, sometimes absurd, but always awesome.
Review: If you go into watching Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist with the idea that it's going to be a typical teen comedy, you will be pleasantly surprised. Although it has it's cliche teen moments, it's much more than that.
With Michael Cera and Kat Dennings playing Nick & Norah, two witty, music-loving teens, the movie feels surprisingly original. In fact, all of the supporting characters seem pretty original, too. Starting with Nick's band, The Jerk Offs, which consists of Nick and his two laid back, down for anything gay friends, Thom and Dev, to Nick's inconsiderate ex Tris, to Norah's drunk friend, Caroline. All bring their own crazy personalities to every scene they're in, and as the movie goes on, all the craziness just gets more and more enjoyable to watch.
After Nick & Norah's initially awkward meeting, Norah is about to leave when Nick's friends decide to put them together in Nick's car and send them off on an all-night New York City adventure, in the hopes of getting Nick over Tris and into Norah. Norah goes along, but only because her and Nick are both out to find the secret show their favorite band is playing, Where's Fluffy?
On a journey to find their favorite band, craziness ensues at just about every stop, from trying to relocate Norah's drunk friend when Nick's band-mates lose her to Norah punching Nick in the throat when things go (temporarily) awry between the two. With a fitting soundtrack and a super fun plot, and great performances from the cast, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist is worth checking out. As mentioned before, it is not a typical teen movie. It's a lot smarter and a lot more funny.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming Review: The Social Network (2010)
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Review of "The King's Speech"
The King's Speech (2010)
Directed by Tom Hooper
Written by David Seidler
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When his father dies and his brother are unable to be King, a relucant Duke becomes King George VI of Britain, which forces him to face his ultimate fear: making speeches to people around the world while having a stammer. In order to better his speech, King George starts taking lessons with an unlikely speech coach, who not only helps him with his stammer, but helps him become the person he really needs to be.
Review: Although Black Swan takes the prize for the strangest movie I've seen in 2010, The King's Speech takes the prize for being the most innovative. Although a serious movie at its heart, there were plenty of funny and endearing moments. And although all three of the main actors' performances were great, the relationship between King George VI (Colin Firth) and his speech coach Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) was especially wonderful. The writing by David Seidler was fantastic as well, creating some very humorous moments between Lionel and King George (or Bertie, as Lionel calls him), as well as some very serious moments where the audience can see how important the relationship between Bertie and Lionel really is.
A particularly humorous moment occurs when the King goes along with Logue's unprecedented style of teaching, and begins to yell curse words, in order to get rid of his stammer. Logue also has the King rolling on the ground, laying on the ground with Bonham Carter sitting on his chest, making crazy noises and moving his tongue all-around, and, the best of all, singing.
While all of these things were done in order to better the King's speech, Logue also wanted to do these exercises in order to coerce the King into dicussing his life (because Logue believes that people's stammering results from an occurrence in their lives). This is one of the main reasons why Logue and the King develop such a strong relationship: because Logue sees that, to help the King overcome his stammer, he has to know him as a person to really be able to teach him something.
Overall, I'd say go see The King's Speech. The strength of the screenplay by Seidler matched with the performances from Firth, Rush, and Bonham Carter make for a movie that should not be missed.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Upcoming Review: The Social Network (2010)
Directed by Tom Hooper
Written by David Seidler
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: When his father dies and his brother are unable to be King, a relucant Duke becomes King George VI of Britain, which forces him to face his ultimate fear: making speeches to people around the world while having a stammer. In order to better his speech, King George starts taking lessons with an unlikely speech coach, who not only helps him with his stammer, but helps him become the person he really needs to be.
Review: Although Black Swan takes the prize for the strangest movie I've seen in 2010, The King's Speech takes the prize for being the most innovative. Although a serious movie at its heart, there were plenty of funny and endearing moments. And although all three of the main actors' performances were great, the relationship between King George VI (Colin Firth) and his speech coach Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) was especially wonderful. The writing by David Seidler was fantastic as well, creating some very humorous moments between Lionel and King George (or Bertie, as Lionel calls him), as well as some very serious moments where the audience can see how important the relationship between Bertie and Lionel really is.
A particularly humorous moment occurs when the King goes along with Logue's unprecedented style of teaching, and begins to yell curse words, in order to get rid of his stammer. Logue also has the King rolling on the ground, laying on the ground with Bonham Carter sitting on his chest, making crazy noises and moving his tongue all-around, and, the best of all, singing.
While all of these things were done in order to better the King's speech, Logue also wanted to do these exercises in order to coerce the King into dicussing his life (because Logue believes that people's stammering results from an occurrence in their lives). This is one of the main reasons why Logue and the King develop such a strong relationship: because Logue sees that, to help the King overcome his stammer, he has to know him as a person to really be able to teach him something.
Overall, I'd say go see The King's Speech. The strength of the screenplay by Seidler matched with the performances from Firth, Rush, and Bonham Carter make for a movie that should not be missed.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Upcoming Review: The Social Network (2010)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Review of "Black Swan"
Black Swan (2010)
Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Written by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John J. McLaughlin
Starring: Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, and Winona Ryder
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: A devoted ballerina finally gets a leading role in one of her ballet company's productions, but, as opening night gets closer, the pressure of it all becomes too much for her to bare.
Review: Black Swan is a unique movie, to say the least. I guess you wouldn't expect anything less from director Darren Aronofsky, who brought you Requiem for a Dream and The Wrestler. In Black Swan, Nina Sayers lives to be a ballerina. She dances day in and day out, and lives in the hope that she will get the part of the Swan Queen in the company's upcoming production of "Swan Lake." Once she actually does land the part, though, things go haywire. Her dance instructor, Thomas (Vincent Cassel), tells her that she's perfect for the part of the White Swan, but she'll need to work to become the Black Swan. Nina's relentless quest for perfection to become the Black Swan send her on a downward spiral to nothingness. As the movie goes on, Nina slowly loses her mind.
Although not my cup of tea (I enjoyed The Wrestler more), Black Swan is a good movie. It's thrilling and scary and will keep you trying to make sense of the movie long after it is over. It makes you fall into a sort of dream world; it makes the audience feel how Nina feels, unsure of what is and isn't real. The performance from Portman as Nina is wonderful as well, as are the performances from all of the supporting actors.
Overall, I would say to see the movie for the performances. Portman is great, Kunis is great, Hershey (as Nina's extremely overbearing mother) is great, Cassel is great, and Ryder is great (and incredibly scary). So if you want to see an incredibly well-acted, albeit really creepy thriller, go see Black Swan.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming review: The King's Speech
Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Written by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John J. McLaughlin
Starring: Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, and Winona Ryder
Review by Jennie Brouse
Synopsis: A devoted ballerina finally gets a leading role in one of her ballet company's productions, but, as opening night gets closer, the pressure of it all becomes too much for her to bare.
Review: Black Swan is a unique movie, to say the least. I guess you wouldn't expect anything less from director Darren Aronofsky, who brought you Requiem for a Dream and The Wrestler. In Black Swan, Nina Sayers lives to be a ballerina. She dances day in and day out, and lives in the hope that she will get the part of the Swan Queen in the company's upcoming production of "Swan Lake." Once she actually does land the part, though, things go haywire. Her dance instructor, Thomas (Vincent Cassel), tells her that she's perfect for the part of the White Swan, but she'll need to work to become the Black Swan. Nina's relentless quest for perfection to become the Black Swan send her on a downward spiral to nothingness. As the movie goes on, Nina slowly loses her mind.
Although not my cup of tea (I enjoyed The Wrestler more), Black Swan is a good movie. It's thrilling and scary and will keep you trying to make sense of the movie long after it is over. It makes you fall into a sort of dream world; it makes the audience feel how Nina feels, unsure of what is and isn't real. The performance from Portman as Nina is wonderful as well, as are the performances from all of the supporting actors.
Overall, I would say to see the movie for the performances. Portman is great, Kunis is great, Hershey (as Nina's extremely overbearing mother) is great, Cassel is great, and Ryder is great (and incredibly scary). So if you want to see an incredibly well-acted, albeit really creepy thriller, go see Black Swan.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upcoming review: The King's Speech
Review of "127 Hours"
127 Hours (2010)
Synopsis: A daring, adventurous young man goes canyoneering by himself in Moab, Utah, where his arm gets caught under a boulder, and he is forced to decide what's more important: his life or his arm?
Review: Armed with a strong director, a strong performance from Franco, and a beautifully written screenplay, 127 Hours is the type of movie that will make you believe anything is possible. Centered around the life of Aron Ralston, a mountain climber and perpetual adrenaline junkie, this movie will make you want to laugh, cry, cover your eyes, always tell someone where you're going, cringe, smile, and maybe even do something with your life.
Aron Ralston is a young man who doesn't really think about what his life's going to be like in the future; infact, he doesn't really plan at all. He just lives everyday as it comes, looking for the next dangerous adventure he can embark upon. This kind of carefree lifestyle seems appealing, but as the viewers learn along with Aron, it's not the type of life you want to have when you die, because what will you have to look back upon once you are gone? This is exactly the premonition Aron has as his arm is caught between a rock and a boulder, and he thinks he is going to die. He realizes that he should talk to his family more, and that he shouldn't be alone so much.
This movie is great because it is a journey. The journey that one takes through his thoughts: his memories, his dreams, his future aspirations...all while having his arm caught between a rock and a huge boulder. As well as the terrific acting and directing, the score (from the wonderful A.R. Rahman) and cinematography (Enrique Chediak and Anthony Dod Mantle) are beautiful also. If you like character studies (that are actually nonfiction) and enjoy a good adventure, you'll enjoy this movie.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Directed by: Danny Boyle
Screenplay by: Danny Boyle and Simon Beaufoy
Adapted from novel Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston
Starring: James Franco, Kata Mara, and Amber Tamblyn
Review by Jennie Brouse
Review: Armed with a strong director, a strong performance from Franco, and a beautifully written screenplay, 127 Hours is the type of movie that will make you believe anything is possible. Centered around the life of Aron Ralston, a mountain climber and perpetual adrenaline junkie, this movie will make you want to laugh, cry, cover your eyes, always tell someone where you're going, cringe, smile, and maybe even do something with your life.
Aron Ralston is a young man who doesn't really think about what his life's going to be like in the future; infact, he doesn't really plan at all. He just lives everyday as it comes, looking for the next dangerous adventure he can embark upon. This kind of carefree lifestyle seems appealing, but as the viewers learn along with Aron, it's not the type of life you want to have when you die, because what will you have to look back upon once you are gone? This is exactly the premonition Aron has as his arm is caught between a rock and a boulder, and he thinks he is going to die. He realizes that he should talk to his family more, and that he shouldn't be alone so much.
This movie is great because it is a journey. The journey that one takes through his thoughts: his memories, his dreams, his future aspirations...all while having his arm caught between a rock and a huge boulder. As well as the terrific acting and directing, the score (from the wonderful A.R. Rahman) and cinematography (Enrique Chediak and Anthony Dod Mantle) are beautiful also. If you like character studies (that are actually nonfiction) and enjoy a good adventure, you'll enjoy this movie.
Overall Rating: 4/5
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