Schofizzy's Movie Review

Review - The Grey

2012-01-25T15:41:00.000-08:00

After a plane crash strands an oil drilling team in the middle of the Alaskan wilderness, the group must try to survive against not only the freezing temperatures and harsh elements, but a pack of wolves whose hunting territory they've invaded.

"The Grey" is not the movie I expected, it is better. Going in I thought the audience was simply getting Liam Neeson fighting wolves. A survival action with Neeson taking down some Alaskan wolf pack one by bloody one. I pictured director Joe Carnahan behind the camera revving up the action and going for the throat with edge of your seat thrills for ninety plus minutes. By every stretch of the imagination, I was absolutely content paying to see exactly that, but director Joe Carnahan wanted to make something that digs a little bit deeper than just your typical survival action. He wanted to peer into our psyche, our passions, our memories, our resolve, and our determinations. Director Joe Carnahan definitely went for the throat with thrills and action throughout "The Grey" but he also goes for the heart with patient characterization and tragically raw human emotions.

As you'd expect, Liam Neeson is riveting to watch. Neeson is one of those actors that has always carried himself in such a manner that you are automatically drawn to him, and here is no different. When he speaks, you are at attention and when he says to do something, you do it. Neeson's character Ottway, easily gravitates as the person to follow after the crash landing for the group of survivors. They latch on to his survival skills and from an audiences perspective, there's no questioning their decisions because of Neeson's persona, which seems to continually drip natural born leader and a bona fide badass. Ottway doesn't just lead in the way of survival tactics either, he models behavior the other survivors (and audience) admires and connects with. One prime example of this comes in the second act while the group are huddled around a fire and Ottway expresses his fear of survival. Neeson has you hanging on every word during this dire monologue and you feel the depth of Ottway's emotions as Neeson puts them out there for all to hear. Lastly, it was a nice touch to have Neeson speaking in his native accent. It is just another piece to the puzzle that makes Neeson such a distinguishable actor.

There is an unexpected patience Joe Carnahan displayed in "The Grey" that ended up propelling this movie from being a good action to an all around great film. One big reason is the amount of attention spent on characterization of the survivors. Carnahan's script allowed for each and every survivor to have something that the audience could connect with. These are real human characters on screen that are facing an extremely dangerous environment and dying. They are coping with tremendous fear and "The Grey" boldly slows down and allows for authentic moments and feelings to come out on screen. Carnahan also gives each of the survivors fitting deaths, he takes us through their pain and suffering before the release. He builds a bit of discomfort and uncertainty within the audience and balances it with stunning moments of serenity.

Let's talk about the wolves for a moment, actually wait, allow me to stop and applaud Joe Carnahan for not just making totally cgi wolves. Too many movies have actors running from a tennis ball on a stick imagining it will be a monster or wolf in the finished product, but here Carnahan went out of his way to make sure they utilized something that looked real. Something the actors could work with and see on set. The result is apparent on screen and there is a nice balance of real wolves, animatronics, and cgi enhancements that combined to make the wolves incredibly ferocious and undeniably frightening. One sequence I found absolutely chilling doesn't even feature physical wolves that the audience can see, but instead only their breath as they howl into the black Alaskan night. The suspense of the wolves throughout "The Grey" is without error. Any notion that a member of the pack is near is matched with instant tension that is palpable just as if the audience was watching a slasher horror film. From the growling, snarling, and/or howling to the panting breath as the pack would chase closer, each moment with a wolf on screen is met with white knuckle panic.

The wolves aren't the only thrills director Joe Carnahan provides either. Much of the sequences of the group battling the elements are equally thrilling. Seeing as the snow builds up on men's faces, as they sink deeper and deeper with each step forward, or as they struggle to maintain the fire against the seventy mile an hour winds. The endurance and resolve these characters/actors exhibit is both compelling and vivid. These men are facing their fears in the Alaskan wilderness and Carnahan along with cinematographer Masanobu Takayanagi really put the audience in the perspective of the characters. This tactic is used most of the time with the attack sequences but also in a few scenes where the survivors face their fears. One fear in particular being heights and the first person point of view Takayanagi uses with his camera takes the audience right over the edge into a truly daunting experience. Some attention must also be payed to the intimidating crash sequence. Much of the crash focuses on Neeson's character Ottway, as the plane goes down. I loved the balance Carnahan again displayed throughout this sequence. Half unnerving, half soothing and the result of those two halves is totally spine-chilling.

"The Grey" is a tremendous start to 2012. It is a survival horror and a drama that will stand the testament of time. It houses rich characters and heavy hitting thrills that you will want to experience again and again. Ultimately it is a film that will leave you thinking and talking about it, but also telling friends to see it immediately.

Trailer - Casa de mi Padre

2012-01-16T16:00:00.000-08:00

Will Ferrell is an enigma for me, at times I love his schtick and others I can't stand it. Usually it is evident from the onset if I am going to be interested in a Ferrell project and his latest, a Spanish language effort, looks to be a scream! Late last year our first teaser for "Casa de mi Padre" was released and I instantly catapulted this project as a potential best for Ferrell. That initial teaser made me think Armando Alvarez could be a rival to Ron Burgundy. Thankfully the full length trailer keeps my hopes up. Check it out for yourself below.

This flick looks ripe will laughs and you can guarantee I will be hitting theaters to see it March 16th, when it releases. The big question is will the rest of general audiences? "Casa de mi Padre" will probably only see a limited release to start but will it gain enough traction to see a wider release being in a foreign language? Part of me believes that Will Ferrell is funny enough to pull in audiences to see him even if he is speaking Spanish, but the other half of me thinks that same demographic will turn their nose to reading subtitles for laughs. Native Spanish speakers who like Will Ferrell are in for a treat, but lets hope this comedy is good enough to break some of the subtitle barriers general audiences have built around them.

Source: Yahoo Movies

'Prometheus' Still Stirs Questions

2012-01-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend Amy Kaufman from the L.A. Times Hero Complex released an engaging interview with screenwriter Damon Lindelof on the promise of "Prometheus" being epic. Along with the interview was a brand new image of Noomi Rapace in some sort of corridor look at something off camera. The new image ended up stirring up more questions in me than the interview, because this new image clearly features not one but two space jockeys. The Space Jockey has been the one definite link we can all make between 'Prometheus' and 'Alien' but it also has become a constant source of discussion and intrigue. We want to know how and why the Space Jockey links 'Alien' to 'Prometheus'. Below I've put together a few things I have noticed pertaining to the Space Jockeys and how they might play into Ridley Scott's latest scifi.

This first image we've all seen before, it is taken from Ridley Scott's "Alien," and it is the Space Jockey chamber.

The second image is from "Prometheus" and you'll notice it is a very similar chamber from what we've seen in 'Alien' except the head is missing from the Jockey suit. You can see the remains to the back of the head, but the rest is obviously gone. You can also see a figure off to the right, but speculation on him should remain in a completely different post.

The third image appears to be back on the ship and shows Noomi Rapace and others observing what looks to be the removed head from the Space Jockey suit from the previous image. This again, is mere speculation, but it looks as though the team of explorers have removed the head and taken it back to do further research.

Ryan Turek over at Shock Till You Drop recently posted a link to an interview with Ridley Scott and Filmophilia where he extrapolated further on the Space Jockey. "It’s fairly pure [Alien]. And this one [Prometheus] does actually raise all kinds of other questions, because if someone could, a being, could be as monstrously clever to create something like we experienced in the very first one [Alien] – I always figured it’s a weapon, and I always figured that [the Space Jockey ship in the first Alien] was a carrier of weapons. Therefore, who is that, inside that suit? That wasn’t a skeleton, that was a suit. And if you open up the suit, what do you get inside it? And why were they going, where were they going?" In brevity, Ridley sounds like he's questioning what happens when you look inside the suit. He's clearly talking about the Space Jockey suit and the images above lead me to believe that question will be fully explored throughout Prometheus.

Piecing things together it seems that the Space Jockey's are pilots who are assigned to expedite the "weapons" Ridley Scott referred to in the Filmophilia interview. The imagery of the pods seen in the Promethus trailer could also add to this theory, not to mention a screen capture of what looks to be the Space Jockey chamber fully operational. A room that looks to deliver a digital map-out to the galaxy.

All of this is just speculation and only a piece of what Prometheus looks to have in store for us. Much of this is a curse, I wish I never watched the trailer in the first place. My original intention was to remain dark on this film until opening day. Now I will continue to over think and piece together the contents of this film with each new piece of production that leaks out. See what one new image of Noomi Rapace in a corridor did to me? All of this analysis and linking because of one new image featuring those damn Space Jockeys! Can this Ridley Scott scifi get here any quicker?!

Source: Hero Complex

Trailer - Moonrise Kingdom

2012-01-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

Wes Anderson remains one of my favorite working directors. The man just has a certain flare to his films that appeals to me. This first trailer for his latest film "Moonrise Kingdom," is smothered in that particular Anderson flare. See for yourself after the jump.

The trailer is everything I could have hoped for our initial peek at Wes Anderson's new film, it sets the table without fail and leaves me eagerly awaiting the Anderson entree to arrive. Everything about this movie has me jumping for joy. Wes Anderson films always house incredible casts and once again Wes has put an exceptional one together including Bill Murray, Jason Schwartzman, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton and that doesn't even account for the two kids who runaway together, who I must say look both absolutely hysterical and adorable. Yeah, I'm over-hyping this but its Wes Anderson and I'm allowed to be a little over-excited from time to time. "Moonrise Kingdom" releases May 25th, 2012.

Source: Apple Trailers

Help, Rewind This! Movie

2012-01-10T17:01:00.000-08:00

All the best movies come from some passionate place we love and some friends of mine via Twitter, are asking for our help to finish up a documentary about VHS movies. Its no secret that home video had a major impact on our society and this film aims to tell that story through a series of engaging interviews with filmmakers, video store owners, and VHS collectors alike. The production team are 90% done with the doc they've been working on for nearly two years and your help is going to help get it finished. Take a look below to see the first trailer for "Rewind This!" and how you can help get this passionate project about the transformation of media finished.

This is a project I have been watching from the distance and its time I step up and do what little I can to help spread the word about a documentary that I want to see (and you should too). If you are older than say 15, chances are VHS played a some part in your life. These plastic beauties allowed us all to watch the movies we love at home, repeatedly. They are an important piece of our history and for some of us, seeing that story told is very important. The filmmakers behind this project are 100% hardcore cinephiles who have gone above and beyond finding filmmakers, video store owners, other cinephiles and collectors like themselves, to help piece together a story that will be a lot of fun to see.

The introduction of home video had a massive impact on culture, business, and the development of media. The film-going public had unprecedented control over their viewing schedule, burgeoning filmmakers had inexpensive tools with which to create, and a new business was formed that expanded the reach of an already exploding industry. Videotape redefined the way modern society interacts with media. REWIND THIS! aims to be the definitive account of the home video revolution and a showcase of its continuing legacy.

As of right now the kickstarter funding for "Rewind This!" has reached 46% of its goal with 29 days left to help donate. The production team needs to hit $15,000 and has already had $6,976 donated. To entice donations, Rewind This! has a few special gifts you can earn depending on how much you donate including a postcard signed by the filmmakers, special thanks on their website, a poster of the movie, a handmade charm, an autographed copy of the DVD when it is completed, "The Vietnam War Movie Memorial" print by Tim Doyle, a "VHS Bed" by Kayla Kromer, a few other original art pieces, and the filmmakers eternal gratitude for helping their project.

Ready to help out? Head over to Kickstarter to donate what you can.

Source: Rewind This! A VHS Love Story

Can Burton Be Original Again?

2012-01-09T23:07:00.000-08:00

News recently broke that Tim Burton is in talks with Warner Brothers to direct a new live-action Pinocchio with Robert Downey Jr. possibly set to star. This feels like the umpteenth time the children's book has been adapted in some form, however the ever so popular trend these days is a new twist, and here we will see the story of Pinocchio told from Geppetto's perspective. Despite of my lack of enthusiasm for this "new" version of Pinocchio, the news reminded me how badly I long for another original Tim Burton story. It seems like it has been forever, has it?

Over the last decade Tim Burton has directed eight movies (counting the stuff he's still currently in some form of production on), out of those eight movies, three have been original (one is actually a remake to Burton's own short Frankenweenie). So technically, only two movies have been original content, "Corpse Bride" and "Big Fish." The latter is last film of Burton's I not only enjoyed but loved and that was eight years ago! Most of Burton's best work has been from his own creations, not his twisted interpretation of some pre-established property. Outside of Batman and Pee-wee, every property he has taken on has ended up underwhelming. Titles like Planet of the Apes, Alice in Wonderland, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory all do nothing but leave me with a bad memory, meanwhile titles like Edward Scissorhands, Mars Attacks!, and Beetlejuice leave me with a whopping smile on my face. I crave those original stories. Even though Burton did not direct, The Nightmare Before Christmas is another perfect example of how powerful Burton's originality can be.

Back in October, on Halloween to be specific, my family and I went to see the Tim Burton exhibit at LACMA. This was a collection over his lifetime, from drawings to actually props from movies. Walking through this exhibit was extremely bitter-sweet. You saw just how many great ideas this visionary has had over the years. The art show was set up much like a timeline of Burton's life and there was this point when the exhibit lost its luster. Oddly enough that was right around the turn of the century when Burton got lost in remakes and adaptations. The collection gets real thin at this point too, no more elaborate and imaginative drawings just uninspired movie props like the straight-razors from 'Sweeney Todd' or the helmets from Planet of the Apes. It made me question if Burton's creative juices are dwindling. Has he lost his bone-daddy mojo? Where are the original stories like 'Scissorhands' and The Nightmare Before Christmas that awed us?

It seems we have entered a phase in Burton's career where he's happy just adapting the things he's always liked and not creating anything original. He just finished up shooting "Dark Shadows" an adaptation of a old Gothic TV show, prior to that was 'Sweeney Todd' and 'Wonderland,' both of which I'd rather forget. Alice in Wonderland made Disney enough cash that they agreed to let Burton develop a full-length version of Frankenweenie, which should please the Burton die-hard, but truthfully it works fantastically in short format and I'm not so sure we need 90 minutes of it. What we do need is Burton to dream up something new and original again. Hell I'd be interested in seeing him do another biography-style movie like Ed Wood. 'Wood' still happens to be my favorite movie Burton and Depp collaborated on.

Sadly it has become clear over the last decade that Tim Burton is in the business of making movies not making really good stories and this realization hurts. It is like losing a good friend. Since I was eight years old I followed Burton's every development. I remember begging my mom to take me to see Beetlejuice, the new movie from the director of Pee-wee's Big Adventure, and I want that feeling again. I loved Burton, now I just reminisce about the good old days. What makes this hurt even more is to know that Burton has enough pull and clout to challenge the studio system with some original content again. He doesn't have to continually regurgitate older stories with Burton's style. He could make actual new Burton material but does he want to? I'm starting to believe that Burton is just fine being a cog in the studio wheel continually turning out re-imaged property after re-imaged property.

Source: THR

Favorite Old Movies Seen in 2011

2012-01-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine on Twitter @bobfreelander, who loves making lists on his blog Rupert Pupkin Speaks, each year makes a Best of Year End List but instead of being comprised of the Favorite New Movies within a given year, it is a list comprised of the Favorite Old Movies he's seen for the first time in a given year. For instance your friends have always scoffed at how you've never seen "Deliverance" so you finally decide to see it and you love it like everyone else has always raved. That film would count for consideration on this particular Favorite Old Movies Year End List. Being an avid movie watcher, I loved the sound of this idea so I went ahead and copycatted Mr. @bobfreelander (with his blessing of course). Within 2011 I watched 492 movies, 268 of those movies were first time watches, and 122 of those titles could be considered under the stipulations listed above for my own Favorite Old Movies Seen in 2011 list.

45% percent of the films on this list were seen within the friendly confines of Los Angeles's New Beverly Cinema. A majority of which were also seen during Quentin Tarantino's March Madness. A month long celebration where Tarantino programs a number of his favorite films. This year the event climaxed with a special week long engagement of Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair" uncut as one thrilling movie. Okay, okay, enough of the setup; here's my Favorite 20 Old Movies Seen in 2011:

20. Electra Glide in Blue (1973)

At some point last year, I saw the trailer for this Robert Blake film and knew I just had to see it. From the trailer the film looks like a soft core for motorcycle police. The opening of the film, even goes out of its way to give the audience an extended suit up sequence with homo-eroticism on display. Plus a line-up all before the bike cops ride off on their designated patrols. Once the drama settles in however, it is apparent that 'Electra Glide' isn't just a movie about how great a Harley Davidson is, this film had something to say about the era. It looks at stereotypes and pits the "good guys" in a darker light then you'd expect from the trailer. The main character, John Wintergreen wonderfully played by Robert Blake, doesn't connect with the other officers who badger and harass locals in the rural Arizona town. He's sees himself as an outsider and I really connected with the character study the film took on. I expected a motorcycle enthusiast film and got that plus a well developed drama underneath that takes a stark look at society during the 70's.

19. Stone (1974)

This is "Point Break" twenty years before its time, except instead of revolving around surfing, it is pure motorcycle erotica. A dated Aussie biker movie that follows a cop who goes undercover and joins a bikie gang The Grave Diggers, that are being killed off one-by-one by an unknown assassin. While the film has a loose structure or plot to carry it along, the film really is an honest depiction and appreciation of bikie gangs in Australia. Plus a heaping pile of riding footage. The film includes a ton of thrilling stunts but I really loved all the electric POV motorcycle riding. The film is pretty rough around the edges, but the director Sandy Harbutt nailed the brotherhood of a biker gang. You can read my full review of "Stone" here.

18. 100 Rifles (1969)

Burt Reynolds, Jim Brown and Raquel Welch a cast that just smolders sex appeal for both men and women. I'm a sucker for the western genre and have been trying to catch up on all the old westerns I've never seen when then this title popped up on Netflix Watch-Instantly reminding me how much I wanted to see it. I'd also heard there is a scene with Raquel Welch showering and as lowly and chauvinistic as it is, that was a major driving force in seeing this film. Ok, enough testimonial, 100 Rifles is a solid western with a ton of chemistry between the studded cast. Reynolds has always been a charmer and here is no different. His sarcastic exchanges with Jim Brown are a riot and kept a smile on my face throughout. As for Welch, she is stunning as always and the shower sequence was definitely wet! 100 Rifles isn't the best western by any means, but its a fun ride and well deserving of a spot in this list.

17. Charley-One-Eye (1973)

A survival and friendship tale told through very peculiar means. The film follows an African American who is on the run from a bounty hunter and runs into a Native American. The two strangers travel together across the desert in search of water and shelter. The drama is pretty abstract and goes out of its way to put the audience through the experience but its actual weight comes in the stark look at racism during the late 1800s in America. This film also houses a poignant metaphor of how all men crave normalcy and have aspirations through use of a chicken, yeah, a chicken. Read my full thoughts on "Charley-One-Eye" here.

16. Johnny Firecloud (1975)

A harrowing revenge set in Arizona that follows a Native American returning from Vietnam to find his town overrun with racists. The film is uncomfortable with all of the racism going on, which is kind of a good thing. It is important Americans look back at how cruel we were, this movie is a neon sign of racism towards Native Americans during the 70s and is something we should be aware and ashamed about. The film isn't all just enduring racism though, because there is a tipping point and when it happens you are treated to an onslaught of violence at the hands of one Johnny Firecloud. Most of the kills are blatant stereotypes of Native American practices but they still are pretty damn fun to watch unfold. Lastly, I gotta mention one line of dialogue that I just can't wipe from my memory banks, EVER. "Sooner or later we are gonna tangle assholes." The craziest fighting words I have ever heard. For more on "Johnny Firecloud" checkout my full write-up here.

15. The Last American Hero (1973)

A racing movie set in the south with a fresh-faced Jeff Bridges behind the wheel. The Last American Hero is an inspiring story about a bootleg runner who turns to circuit racing trying to find a legal means of keeping a roof over his family's head. Watching this movie it is clear that Bridges has always had his charm. Whether he is behind the wheel or not Bridges shows off why he is a Hollywood icon. One disappointment about this film is the thrill of the racing sequences. When Bridges is bootlegging and evading the authorities, I've got no complaints, but once confined into a circuit race track all the thrill was lost. Much of this can be blamed on the cinematography that never really gives the audience a clear understanding of the stakes of the race. Positioning, cars bumping, the lay of the track, instead we get a multitude of close-ups of Jeff Bridges and the other racers faces. Complaints aside, The Last American Hero is a memorable ride. Bridges and the rest of the fully loaded cast all shine in a genuine picture of the south during the 70's. You can read my full reaction on "The Last American Hero" here.

14. The Hot, The Cool and The Vicious (1976)

Three badass fighters on display for 90 minutes of pure unadulterated martial arts. Well, maybe not totally unadulterated, but really really close. The great Tommy Lee put together all of the choreography seen throughout and each fighter/actor really does a excellent job of displaying his strong-suit. Don Wong with his dynamic punching ability and Tao-liang Tan showing off his incredible leg strength. The story is pretty cut and paste, a mother is murdered and vengeance will be had but one extreme high point is the most hilarious torture sequence I have ever seen. Read my full rundown on "The Hot, The Cool and The Vicious" here.

13. Black Belt Jones (1974)

While talking about "Black Dynamite" with some friends Black Belt Jones came up and I embarrassingly revealed that I had not seen it. I was given the look of shame by the group along with a wagging of the finger, which promoted me to track down the Blaxploitation action film. How had I gone thirty plus years of my life not seeing this glorious piece of cinema I don't know! I had been deprived, but thankfully I now know the legitimacy of Black Belt Jones and his hilarity. The opening of the film is a perfect mood setter. The soundtrack is a classic 70's groove written by Dennis Coffey that is sure to get your toes tapping. I love the freeze frame editing within the opening as well, it showcases our main character in a light that gears the audience up for the rest of the film. As for the rest of the film, short and sweet. There's nothing new to storyline just loads and loads of good laughs and hilarious action.

12. The Mechanic (1972)

The remake to this Charles Bronson film was about to release last year when I realized, I'd not seen the original. Luckily, Netflix had it up on Watch-Instantly and I settled in for some Bronson-style wet work. Bronson is, like always, spot on as the hired gun. Bronson just has the stoic sense of masculinity that really worked in roles like this. The first thing anyone will notice watching this for the first time is its lack of dialogue. The thriller has zero talking for the first sixteen minutes, just Bronson's character Arthur Bishop setting up one of his jobs. The audience see how precise Bishop is at his work, which is all setup for the cat and mouse game that plays out for the rest of the film. The opening of The Mechanic cleverly sets up that Bishop will always have the foresight to think a couple steps ahead. Bronson creates in Bishop an iconic character that can go down as one of the better hit-men in a long list of assassins in cinema. Truthfully, this is easily one of my favorite Charles Bronson movies, one I watched three times last year.

11. Assault on Precinct 13 (1976)

Outside of his new release "The Ward" last year, this was the last remaining John Carpenter movie I had not seen. Carpenter is a director/storyteller I adore and scratching this title off my must see list was an enjoyable one. First off, Carpenter is known for his scores and Assault on Precinct 13 is another magical piece of music that really helps to drive the action-thriller along. As far as the film goes, edge of your seat white knuckle thrills all set in nearly one location, absolutely brilliant! Carpenter really knows how to build tension and Assault is just another wonderful example of that. If you've never seen this Carpenter classic, make haste and see it!

10. Fandango (1985)

At the beginning of the year I told myself I wanted to have a 24-hour marathon of Kevin Costner movies. I've always been a fan and a defender of Costner's films, yes, even the ones most people hate like "The Postman" and "Waterworld." Anyways most of this marathon I wanted to be a select few titles of Costner I'd not seen or films I'd only seen once. So I selected about thirteen titles to watch and had about five or six alternates ready to go so if on a whim I felt like watching something different. So yeah about nineteen titles to choose from, anyways kicking off the marathon I went with one of Costner's films I'd never seen Fandango. Told in a day in the life format, the film follows a group of friends after graduating college in late 60's and decide to take off on a short adventure. Along the way we learn that each of the friends had gone to college to avoid going to Vietnam and now that they'd graduated they would have to join the war. Let me just say that Fandango is a great friendship movie and the backdrop of the Vietnam war gives the film some poignant emotions to chew on. What it must have been like to have that weight on your shoulders. Outside of the heavy and controversial war storyline, Fandango is really a barrel of laughs too. Kevin Costner and Judd Nelson really plays off each other in excellent fashion. This was a rising start to my 24-hour Costner Marathon and a film I will definitely be watching again and again.

9. Fish Story (2009)

Yoshihiro Nakamura is a director you should all be aware of. He is a director that is currently creating continual powerful cinema. Fish Story is one of two movies of his I watched in 2011 both of which are incredible. The other film is actually a new release (Golden Slumber) so it doesn't qualify but Fish Story is available on Netflix Watch-Instantly and I highly recommend you watch it. The film is kind of complicated to explain but the gist is a Japanese rock band wrote a song called "Fish Story" and this song will save the world. I know, it sounds far fetched, but it really is a one of a kind film. I don't want to run off some explanation of the film because it will spoil the fun of it. All you need to know is it is well worth your time and by the end of it you will be singing the song along with the movie.

8. Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance (1972)

I've seen "Shogun Assassin" and "Shogun Assassin 2: Lightning Swords of Death" a bunch growing up but I'd never seen the original source material. Shogun Assassin is the English language dubbed version of 'Lone Wolf and Cub' and decided it was time I sat down and watch the original films in the entire Lone Wolf and Cub series. There are six movies and 'Sword of Vengeance', the first, is by and large my favorite of all six movies. One thing remains constant throughout these films is the love a father has for his son. While most of these movies are heavy handed with ridiculous violence, there is a softer side to them, one that really pushes my parental emotions. Of course the violence is a blast to watch and Tomisaburo Wakayama wielding his samurai sword will always continue to be cheer educing. Wakayama is so iconic as hired assassin who tows his son around wherever he goes. Some mention must also be made of Akihiro Tomikawa who plays the child. While he isn't given much to do, the little guy sure pulls his weight on screen. One of these years I'd like to buy a definitive set of the 'Lone Wolf and Cub' series, it is a piece of cinematic history that belongs on any action/martial-arts fan shelf.

7. The Driver (1978)

Walter Hill is a damn good director that has made a number of films I cherish. Last year, during Edgar Wright's Wright Stuff II at the New Beverly he programmed a driving double feature including Walter Hill's "The Driver" and Steven Spielberg's "Duel." As for the evening, it included a sensational Q&A with Walter Hill himself after watching his Noir crime thriller about a nameless driver that has never been caught. The Driver is a quiet thriller, one that probably not everyone will enjoy. Much like this year's film "Drive" (which was clearly influenced by Walter Hill's classic) the movie is not overloaded with action. It is deliberately paced and takes it time building the tension between a wheel-man who has never been caught and a cop hellbent on catching him. That said, the action that is within is precise and electric. If you loved "Drive" this year and haven't seen Walter Hill's "The Driver," make it a priority.

6. Midnight Run (1988)

Described to me as possibly the best action-comedy of all time left this title in some mighty big shoes to fill and me constantly hesitating to watch it in fear of not liking it. Well, its placement in the list is a dead giveaway I finally broke down and watched. While I wouldn't call it the best action-comedy, Midnight Run is a definitely a worth considering. Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin play off each other like so many of the other great comedic tandems. In retrospect, it is a shame that these two didn't work more together. Not in a crappy sequel or anything but just another movie, like how Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor continually worked together. Perhaps the on screen chemistry, was just that on screen only, leaving De Niro and Grodin to not hit it off in real life. Who knows, back to the film, I can safely say this is the best bounty hunter action-comedy I have ever seen. The movie itself is pretty standard, but the performances are so good they elevate the film into a different territory, a territory that easily landed Midnight Run a spot on the list.

5. Pretty Maids All in a Row (1971)

This midnight movie is a erotic delight full of surprises that I totally loved. The film basically starts off by taking the inner-sexual thought process of a teenage boy and projects it on to the big screen for all to see. On the surface 'Maids' seems like a film that was just made to feature tons of hot women in revealing clothing or no clothing at all, but it really has a lot more going on that is better left untold. Let it be known that Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry wrote the script, and its nothing to mistake as some cheap midnight smut. Read my full breakdown of "Pretty Maids All in a Row" here.

4. Sheitan (2006)

Over the summer Reel Grit, a weekly screening group I belong to, planned a 12 hour marathon titled; Reel Grit: From Dusk Till Dawn. Plan was to watch 6 genre titles across 12 hours and luckily it went off without a hitch. Smack dab in the middle of the marathon was this French horror gem starring Vincent Cassel. Directed by Kim Chapiron, Sheitan follows a group of twenty-somethings who end up at a strange farmhouse out in the french countryside after clubbing at a disco in the city. This horror threw me and the rest of the Reel Grit crowd for a loop. It is imaginative, provocative, spliced with comedy and horrific through and through, not to mention the unanimous winner of the marathon. This is a film that is best left knowing as little as possible about and just watching. Allowing the movie to lead you along the path it intends. To its strength, this is a horror film that doesn't really compel the audience to question the motives or actions, instead it flows really well and just happens. Last I checked, this title was still available via Netflix Watch-Instantly, so have at it! A movie you are likely never to forget.

3. Branded to Kill (1967)

If a movie is within The Criterion Collection, chances are its a good movie. Clearly, I jest. Film lovers know that anything under the Criterion banner has some form of cinematic quality worth appreciating. Over my years I have always tried to watch as many of the Criterion titles as I could. I'll admit I have not seen all of them. There are a number I need to see and Branded to Kill was one at the top of my list for a couple of reasons but mainly because it revolves around the Japanese Yakuza. This is a film I'd heard about since college. Always branded with, "you've never seen Branded to Kill?" as if the film was handed down to every child at birth to watch. Being a film that was heavily built up over years, I have to say it is a magnetic film that wears its acclaim in tremendous fashion. Joe Shishido is perfect as Goro Hanada, the Number Three Killer. You can see film noir's influence all over Branded to Kill while the film also steps out on a limb and becomes very avant garde creating its own wave of influence. Seeing this movie having watched so many of the films that were influenced by it added to the enjoyment of this watch. It is like looking into the past and seeing what inspired some of my current favorite filmmakers.

2. Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969)

This flick is easily in the Top 5 of Best Romantic Comedies ever. Director and writer Paul Mazursky delivers a realistic and humorist look into relationships. The film is dated to the late 1960's when American amoral society was changing but all of the themes and topics still hold water in today's relationships. This movie is utterly honestly and hilarious. It houses some of the funniest martial sequences I've seen, sequences that anyone who has gone through a lengthy relationship has endured. It is provocative, whimsical but it never pull any punches, it is one of the best, if not the best film Paul Mazursky has directed. Read my full review of "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice" here.

1. Dark of the Sun (1968)

The best men-on-a-mission movie I have ever seen, period. A true classic with heart-throb male leads, edge of your seat action and stunts, an infectious score that will leave you humming, and outstanding moments of comedic relief. Dark of the Sun is overall just a powerhouse of a movie. It is a sin that Warner Archive has not released this film to Blu-Ray. Rod Taylor and Jim Brown just drip of charm throughout meanwhile they take on dangerous stunts one after the other making today's "action stars" look like cheap impressions of these true action stars. Dark of the Sun is a film I can't recommend enough, track it down and see it. Checkout my full write-up on "Dark of the Sun" here.

So there you have it, started this list thinking I'd only talk about 10 films, but I just had to make it 20 because they were all worth sharing.

Paranormal Wave in 2012

2012-01-05T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hollywood is a predictable wave of reactionary studio film making. One studio hits it big with a successful franchise or genre idea so the other studios follow suit trying to steal a piece of that particular demographic. Like how Pixar and "Toy Story" created a surge of new CGI animation in late 90's, the success's of "Superman II" and Tim Burton's "Batman" spawned the superhero genre, horror movies like James Wan's "Saw" and Eli Roth's "Hostel" generated a bunch of torture horror titles, "The Blair Witch" created an entire genre of found-footage films. Take vampire movies, they have been around forever but a film like "Twilight" is a success and it brings on a whole new wave of romantically spun fantasy-genre titles. This is a perpetual cycle in Hollywood that can create both good and bad titles. Looking ahead at 2012 calendar it appears the next wave is ready to hit, one based off the box office success of the "Paranormal Activity" films, unfortunately this wave doesn't look like too fun to ride.

While creating my 12 Anticipated in 2012 list I was noticing a ton of movie titles that eluded to ghost, haunting, or possession stories. This got my brain turning and raised suspicion that we'd be seeing a number of paranormal activity-like movies coming our way. So I investigated further and found 7 movies already slated dealing with some type of apparition. And that doesn't even account for the recently announced sequel to "Paranormal Activity 3" or any other titles that have yet to land a release date.

This is ultra typical of the horror genre. Studios are constantly trying to find the winning combination at the B.O. and sadly leech off other previous ideas that work. Rarely it works, mostly these titles come across feeling like kitchen sink horrors or just another bad re-tread.

Sure I could be overreacting, there have been always been ghost stories. I mean the US remakes of "The Ring" and "The Grudge" certainly did there fair share of resurrecting the angered spirit storyline having studios vying for the next big hit out of a tormented soul. Still titles like "The Devil Inside," "The Woman in Black," "Playback," "The Apparition," "Sinister," "The Possession" and "ParaNorman" jump out as positioning to swipe a bit of the 'Paranormal' crowd's dividends in 2012.

Our first one hits this weekend too with "The Devil Inside." Ironically, the trailer for this one ran ahead of "Paranormal Activity 3" and the crowd took the bait hook, line, and sinker. Recently, I saw ads for 'Devil Inside' using the exact same promotional tactics the PA films have, like recording test audiences jumping during the screening, crowd testimonials after and using them in the promotional trailers to tease how scary the movie can be.

The real question is will any of these titles be good? Because if one of these movies is actually a good film and stands on its own two feet, is it a bad thing it started off as a reactionary film? There are plenty of reactionary films I can think of that were a good thing. Hell, the original "Superman" directed by Richard Donner was a reaction off the sci-fi/fantasy "Star Wars." Warner Brothers wanted a piece of the fantasy demo and thought 'Superman' was the perfect way to grab it. "Dick Tracy" and "The Rocketeer" are another couple of great reactionary title examples that came riding the coat-tails of Tim Burton's 'Batman' in a good way. On the other side of that, we have films like "The Phantom" and "Steel" that also rode the same coat-tails, except in the worst way possible.

The jury is still out on whether any of these new paranormal wannabes will be good or become a viable success at the box office, what is for sure, its fun to notice and think about these trends both their good and bad sides.

Trailer - ParaNorman

2012-01-04T14:16:00.000-08:00

A few days ago while watching some new trailers via Hulu Plus I came across a new stop-motion film by people who brought us "Coraline" caled "ParaNorman" and it looks good enough I had to share it with you. Take a look at the trailer and poster below...

First off I love the look of this film! The animation is just weird enough but not too crazy it becomes diverting. Secondly I love the Donovan song playing throughout the trailer, "Season of the Witch." Nice track to match the mood of the trailer. While the trailer doesn't really give much of anything away other than imagery, the synopsis reveals that ParaNorman is a misunderstood boy who can speak to the dead. "ParaNorman" releases August 17th, 2012.

Source: ParaNorman

12 Anticipated in 2012

2012-01-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! It is that time to look ahead at 2012 and what upcoming theatrical releases we are excited for, or more specifically, which titles I'm totally itching to see. Right off the bat 2012 seems loaded with movies worth seeing and while in the past I've done Top 25 Anticipated, think this year will just go with 12. Why twelve, I don't know it is 2012, it rhymes, or maybe I'm just being lazy but its what I've decided to do.

Something I noticed while compiling this list is the overload of major studio pictures. Generally my anticipated lists for upcoming years favor much of the buzz from festivals and new independent films but this year most of the films making the cut were all larger studio endeavors. What does that mean? First, I'm glad the major studios seem to have made a substantial amount of quality products I am genuinely excited for. Second, its still early in the year. Sundance or Cannes haven't happened. Much of the smaller studios will be scooping up independent titles and filling in release dates within the first two quarters of 2012. So that means this list could very well change, it also means that 2012 looks to be an amazing year of cinema.

So here we go, twelve flicks I can't wait for in 2012...

12. The Cabin in the Woods

This played BNAT13WOLF and crushed. Friends of mine who I trust, told me I would flip for this comedy/horror so here it is, No.12 on the list. I'm excited to see Chris Hemsworth doing some more work outside of the Marvel universe and glad to see the MGM title that looked to be just collecting dust on a shelve is finally seeing a real release. I've been told NOT to watch the trailer (after I'd watched the trailer of course) so I will pass along that message. "The Cabin in the Woods" is directed by Drew Goddard and releases April 13th, 2012

11. Cogan's Trade

Brad Pitt is back with the director of "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" Andrew Dominik for a gritty crime drama about a professional enforcer who is hired to investigate a heist that went down during a mob-protected high stakes poker game. Pitt stars in the tile role with James Gandolfini, Richard Jenkins, Ray Liotta, Vincent Curatola, Garret Dillahunt and Sam Shepard alongside him. The film is based off a novel of the same name written by George V. Higgins and is yet to receive an official release date though the Weinstein Co. holds US distribution rights.

10. God Bless America

Bobcat Goldthwait is a comedic legend to me and with "World's Greatest Dad" he illustrated how great of a director's eye he has. Now he's back with his second feature and it sounds just as riveting as his last. Joel Murray stars as as a man who goes on a killing spree with a teenage girl at his side. Described as a 21st Century Bonnie and Clyde it is sure to be another dark comedy from Goldthwait. Magnet picked up the film after playing at Toronto International Film Festival last year. "God Bless America" releases in limited theaters April 11th, 2012.

9. Skyfall

007 is back, so he's back on the most anticipated list! Admittedly I'm a bit weary considering this project has stalled so many times, but now that it is officially up and running things are looking good. I'm excited to see what Sam Mendes will do in the director's chair with Bond, plus Javier Bardem and Ralph Fiennes are sweet additions to the cast. "Skyfall" releases November 9th, 2012.

8. Argo

People close to me know I'm a sucker for Ben Affleck, I'll see anything he's done. Now with his acclaimed work behind the camera others are beginning to catch the fever. His next directorial effort is going to once again see him both behind and in front of the cameras in a comedy/drama titled "Argo" about a CIA exfiltration specialist who creates a shaky plan to free six Americans in the middle of the Iranian revolution. "Argo" releases September 14th, 2012.

7. Django Unchained

Tarantino! The man is an icon and I love his work. His latest, a western following a slave turned bounty hunter who sets out to rescue his wife from a evil plantation owner. Hell to the yes! The only thing that has lessened my interest a smidgen was the fact QT did not cast Will Smith. I love Smith and would have really loved to see him under the guise of Tarantino but instead we get Jamie Foxx which isn't the worst consolation prize in the world. The rest of the cast for this is incredible and I can't wait to sit in a darkened theater watching Tarantino's latest. Finger crossed the end of the world doesn't hit December 21st, because "Django Unchained" releases Christmas Day, December 25th.

6. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Peter Jackson is back in Middle Earth and all is right with the world! So friggin' excited to see more of this world as told by Peter Jackson. The man made one of the best fantasy trilogies in cinematic history and now he's back at it again. I've watched the trailer more times than I have digits on my hands and feet and as the trailer has indicated, things looks exactly as Jackson left them. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" releases December 14th, 2012

5. The Avengers

We've been building up to this for what seems forever. In actuality, four years since "Iron Man" released, but regardless the Marvel team-up is finally here and I can't wait to see what happens. Marvel studios did fanboys one proud by hiring Joss Whedon to direct, lets just hope it pays off the way we all hoped. There is a lot riding on this film and it better be good otherwise fans are going to be mighty upset. As excited as I am, there is some fear, fear that this will end up just being okay. I want a damn good movie, not one I have to search for reasons to enjoy. "The Avengers" releases May 4th, 2012

4. The Dark Knight Rises

The climax to Christopher Nolan's Batman saga. Just soak on that for a minute. Nolan is one hell of a director and I believe that if he s going to end his Batman saga, he's going to do it in the best way possible. At least that is the hope. The world is there, we know he's got it in him, essentially all the pieces are in place its just a waiting game to see if it all comes together. Finger crossed. "The Dark Knight Rises" releases July 20th, 2012.

3. Moonrise Kingdom

Wes Anderson is in my top five for greatest working directors, I love him. Each movie he's made, I cherish. Everything he does is highly re-watchable and ends up becoming a new favorite. Enter his latest project, one that has a phenomenal cast, PHENOMENAL! Regulars Bill Murray and Jason Schwartzman but also Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton, Frances McDormand, Bob Balaban, and Harvey Keitel. What's the synopsis you ask, it is irrelevant, this is a Wes Anderson movie. "Moonrise Kingdom" releases May 25th, 2012.

2. Prometheus

Ridley Scott is back doing science fiction after thirty years and its about damn time! Not only is he back in sci-fi but he's making a prequel to a movie that I hold as my favorite of all time, "Alien." When this project was announced I told myself to stay in the dark, to not seek out any information on it, then the trailer hit the net. Yeah, I watched the trailer, about a billion times! I am running circles dying to see this movie. All that said, I am trying to keep expectations in check. "Prometheus" releases June 8th, 2012.

1. Wettest County

This movie has the magic combinations that pushed it all the way to top of my most anticipated of 2012 list. I mean it beat out the prequel to my favorite movie of all time, not to mention a double dip of fanboy delight with TDKR and The Avengers. So how'd this movie you've probably never heard of do it, let me explain. It starts with a director that has knocked me on my back twice, John Hillcoat. Hillcoat is an amazing talent with a perfect eye for telling dark thrillers. His previous two films "The Road" and "The Proposition" both were favorite films for the given year they released. Second, enter Nick Cave. A singer/songwriter who has tried his hand at writing novels and screenplays to acclaimed success. I adore this man, plus Cave wrote Hillcoat's prolific Australian western "The Proposition." Third, the synopsis. "Wettest County" is adapted from a novel set in a Depression-era south and is focused on a set of bootlegging brothers as they try to avoid the authorities in Virginia. This is a storyline I can eat up. Historically, its an era I love to absorb and with the combined hive mind of Hillcoat and Cave this is bound to be gold. Fourth, the cast. "Wettest County" is dripping with talent. Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, Guy Pearce, Shia LaBeouf, Mia Wasikowska, Jason Clarke, Noah Taylor and Jessica Chastain. A bunch of actors I would go see in anything they would do on their own, but together, its like a roll call of baddassery. Those four factors all combine to allow Wettest County to sit safely at the top of my list. "Wettest County" releases April 20th, 2012.

Finally, here's a list of films that I am really excited for but didn't make the Top 12: The Grey, The Lorax, Jiro Dreams of Sushi, MIB 3, Brave, The Secret World of Arrietty, Total Recall, Warm Bodies, Premium Rush, Paranorman, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, Headhunters, Bullet to the Head, Chimpanzee, Looper, Dredd, Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3D, Red Dawn, World War Z, Untitled Kathryn Bigelow Project, and Rivals.

Top 10 of 2011

2012-01-03T15:25:00.000-08:00

Another year has come and gone. One way I always put the year to bed is a Top 10 list. Ten movies that, in my opinion, were the best this particular year had to offer. In 2011 I watched 492 movies, 268 of those movies seen were for the first time and 146 of those first time watches were titles that had a theatrical release in the U.S. within 2011. This year was a really good year for a lot of really good movies. As I narrowed down my list of movies watched I had close to 60 titles, all of which were memorable films I would recommend and champion from here on out. Needless to say it took some work for me to definitively say these are my Top 10 in 2011 but after much deliberation, I've done it. Some titles were much easier to include while others had been pulled, re-positioned, and replaced a number of times before finally reaching their official spot in the Top 10.

We all have our own rules or qualifications for a year end list and mine are pretty simple, a film must have had a limited release in New York and Los Angeles for consideration. This qualification leaves out films that only had runs at film festivals or foreign titles that have yet to find U.S. distribution within the calendar year of 2011.

There are a few titles I did miss seeing in 2011 that I will probably regret. Films that have either dawned a number of other lists of people I respect or just films I wanted to see but didn't get a chance. That list includes: A Separation, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, My Week with Marilyn, We Bought a Zoo, Carnage, The Future, A Dangerous Method, Melancholia, and Certified Copy.

One big trend I noticed to my Top 10 is the human element or realism. The movies I connect most with have real, raw human emotions on display and this year like no other each and every title has some prevailing human element that shined through the story. Another big arc I noticed was fatherhood or a protector role. Knowing you have the well being of others in your hands and the emotions that responsibility can stir is powerful and a number of films in my Top 10 shined executing that. One last trend I noticed was love or romance. Generally, I am not a big romance fan, but this year I saw a number of romantic tales told in a way that really won me over. Alright enough set up, let's get to it!

Honorable Mentions: 50/50, Warrior, Ceremony, Project Nim, and Attack the Block

10. Moneyball

Never expected this movie to make my list, hell it wasn't even in my most anticipated list for 2011. It surely was a movie I was aware of but not something I was really itching to see. I knew the story from when it happened, mainly because an Los Angeles Angels fan and the Oakland Athletics are a rival team to my Halos, so of course I know about Billy Beane and his moneyball scheme up in Oakland. If you watch MLB there's no way you don't know who he is, he changed the face of the game but Moneyball isn't entirely about baseball. It has a much larger profound message within it that really crept over me and left me in awe. I fell in love with Moneyball and the resolve Billy Beane displayed amidst his failures. It is a feel good movie. Now that said, the film will alienate audiences with all the baseball nuts and bolts. It is a technical baseball movie on the surface that is drenched in baseball, but if you can get past all that, you just might find the revelation like I did.

9. I Saw the Devil

Imagine the love of your life was murdered and you had the ability to catch and punish the person who did it. Would you do it? In I Saw the Devil the answer was yes and then some. This horror is absolutely brutal and I loved every last lengthy minute of it. Director Kim Jee-woon is a natural talent and once again he pushes the confines of the genre he is playing in. I can't recommend this enough, just an all out horrific ride that never lets up. (Full Review)

8. The Last Circus

When I first heard about this flick all I knew was it revolved around clowns and was making its US premiere at Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas in 2010. The first few images I saw from it looked magical and horrifying immediately drawing me further into a web of desire to see it. Thankfully, the film found US distribution this year and I was able to not only see it, but purchase it on Blu-Ray to have and to hold for the rest of my days. The Last Circus is by all means a tragedy. It is a horrific love triangle about three people who work for a circus in Spain. Their love, hatred, and need for each other. The cast is superb, the delivery of the tragedy is pitch perfect and the film continued to stay with me after the fact. I couldn't get the story of the sad clown out of my head. The emotions, the drama, the anguish, and also the rage. The Last Circus is like nothing I've seen before yet it houses so many themes that we can all connect with; love, hate, sorrow, fear, shame, and revenge to pinpoint a few. It is a romantic, it is over-the-top, and it is a thing of beauty.

7. Take Shelter

Uneasy and uncomfortable are generally not two words I use describe movies I love, but in the case of Take Shelter they are. This thriller directed by Jeff Nichols is a chilling through and through. Following a husband and father who believes an apocalypse is approaching, he begins to plan for its inevitable arrival. His planning however, begins to crumble every aspect of his life around him. His job, his friends, even his family begin to lose faith in him. Michael Shannon delivers one of the most unnerving performances of the year. He is spellbinding as the husband and father who is allowing his visions to get the best of him. Much of the film feels like a nightmare with an eerie calm slowly erupting. Where the story will erupt or if it will erupt are part of the mystery that Jeff Nichols creates so precisely. There is also a shade of ambiguity to the film that I really enjoyed. It helped to keep the uneasy tension building throughout. (Full Review)

6. The Skin I Live In

Maintaining an compelling, edge of your seat story is no easy task but filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar does it in incredible fashion with The Skin I Live In. This thriller is the most elaborate revenge tale I have ever seen to date, one that kept dropping my jaw to the floor with its bewitching twists and turns. Oddly enough it is also one of the happiest revenge tales I have ever seen. Generally you think revenge, you don't think happy, but somehow Almodóvar found a way to achieve it without seeming to neat and tidy. One aspect to the film that helped to keep the contorting thriller captivating is Alberto Iglesias's score. Iglesias pushes you through each twist with a fabulous use of string sectioned orchestra. In particular one violin riff that returns repeatedly to ignite a energy within me very few scores did this year. As you'd expect with any film making a Top 10 list, the performances are spot-on, but there is nothing stand out here. This film relies on the story, the performances definitely play a hand but it is Almodóvar's writing that really land this film its high praise. Unique, alarming and seducing, The Skin I Live In is not to be missed.

5. Meek's Cutoff

This is the one movie on my list I feel like needs to include a disclaimer, it is also the one movie on my list I feel like I have to explain the nature of it to everyone. Meek's Cutoff is a portrait of what it was like to be a 19th century settler pushing west in America. This is actually a horrible movie at explaining what you are witnessing. There is no narration, no set up, it just is the experience. By all accounts this film is hard to watch and it is suppose to be that way. This isn't a movie to sweep you up with emotions and make you feel good, it is again, here to show you what the emigration experience was like. How hard and grueling it was. How unnerving it must have been to walk day in and day out alongside a squeaky wagon wheel. It intends to show the audience how much paranoia and fear could be raised when the length of your trek is unknown. When you are unclear if savage Native Americans could be in the area or where the next source of water is. The film is meant to induce panic, tension, fear, uncertainty and it does so in a most tremendous fashion. I feel for the cast, who all deliver phenomenal portrayals, what they must have went through making this film. You can see from the film, these actors lived the experience. Lastly, Meek's has a heaping serving of ambiguity to it that I truly appreciated. It is a risky call because the decision will divide a portion of the audience just simply because they don't get it. In actuality it is a bold and hard move to leave the audience in the same place as the settlers. It is the final piece to this window of the emigration experience settlers faced during the early 1800s in America's western territories. Meek's Cutoff is a arduous experience, one that I recommend you endure to see just how hard the emigration push was. (Full Review)

4. Drive

When you buy the soundtrack to a movie and are upset that the tracks are out of sequence with the movie, so you re-order those tracks sequentially with the film just so you can re-experience that film on some level outside of the theater, that is a sure sign you're hooked. Drive is a movie I was obsessed with since hearing director Nicolas Winding Refn wanted to direct a movie adaption of James Sallis short novel The Driver and film it in Los Angeles. One year later the movie came out and it was everything I could have hoped for. Drive captures Los Angeles like no other movie in 2011. Refn made a throwback to the quiet thrillers of the 70's and a slap in the face to big budget Hollywood action movies. He powerfully demonstrated how reserved and steady a action film can be while still being flashy and laced with brutality and high octane. Lastly, how long has it been since we had a nameless hero? It was a breath of fresh air to have a hero without a backstory or a name, yet he is still the definition of what we know as good. A protector that goes against his better judgement for the sake of saving someone else. Drive captures a classic tale and projects it under the grime and crime of Los Angeles in expert fashion. (Full Review)

3. Hanna

Biggest surprise of the year for me. Friends of mine had this one on their anticipated list in 2011 and I never even took notice. One big reason is director Joe Wright, prior to making Hanna he'd made nothing but stuffy romantic period films that I'd turned my nose to. Stupidly I thought, he can't make a good assassin action-thriller. Boy was I ever wrong, Joe Wright made the best action movie this year hands down. Part of why I consider this the best action movie is the usual tropes he broke. He didn't use fast cars, big explosions, gigantic robots, aliens or any other form of fantasy elements but instead used a little girl. Not even a dolled up womanized female, but a plain girl who by appearance, wouldn't hurt a fly. Hanna broke the mold when it came to a feminine action movies and deserves mounds of acclaim for doing so. Outside of breaking the typical cliched female action movies mold, Hanna is a enthralling thriller with twists and turns filled with exceptional characters and performances. Saoirse Ronan, Cate Blanchett, Tom Hollander and Eric Bana are absolutely electric in each of their portrayals. Hollander's whistle has stuck with me all year long much to be credited to The Chemical Brothers for their intoxicating score. Another score that is a perfect companion to the already stellar film. (Full Review)

2. The Descendants

Alexander Payne is probably the best director out there telling really sad stories in a delightfully comical way and The Descendants is another triumph by him. Set in the paradise of Hawaii, this dramedy reminds us that life in Hawaii isn't always paradise. That people who live in Hawaii go through just as much pain and suffering as anybody else in America. The film beautifully sets in and tells us a story that feels like something you'd hear a close friend tell you over dinner. Matt King's wife is in a coma after a dangerous boating accident and she isn't going to wake up, now Matt must face raising his two daughters on his own. Rounding out the story and providing a clever relief to the mourning aspect, Matt is negotiating a huge land sale in Kauai that will make his family a substantial amount of money. George Clooney once again provides a seasoned portrayal as Matt King and our narrator to the emotional tale. Clooney in my opinion, deserves the Best Actor for his portrayal here, it is the most subdued, comedic, and emotional I've seen him hit. Despite centering on such painful topic, Alexander Payne finds all the right moments to lighten the blow with comedic relief. None of this ever feels forced either, but instead natural. It is the basic human characteristics that make us laugh, things that people would do or say in normal situations that Payne's film is so effortless at displaying. The mood throughout The Descendants is set by a tremendous soundtrack of traditional slack key guitar Hawaiian songs, each of which emit this seemingly piece of paradise. It is an incredible balance the music creates, you have this peace that settles over you, meanwhile you watch a story play out filled with heartache and trimmed with laughter.

1. The Myth of the American Sleepover

No other film remained with me like The Myth of the American Sleepover in 2011, it is a daydream of what it was like to fall for someone for the first time. It is like looking through a View Finder to our teenage years of confusion, frustration, and passion. Those feelings, those rushes, and those urges we all got when someone of the opposite sex grabbed our attention. Myth captures the simple act of talking about someone you liked with friends. The nerves we got when that person looked our way or talked to us. Director David Robert Mitchell captures the innocence and emotions without error. He takes a bold leap making a film that feels outside the traditional teen coming of age films, both in film-making and storytelling, but wisely centers the content on universal emotions that audiences can all connect with. Told in a simple day in the life format, Myth follows four different narrators as they move through the last weekend of summer in Michigan. Myth is a timeless piece of film that really could have come from any point in the last forty years. Lastly, it is a new beloved favorite, one that easily topped 2011 in my mind. ( Full Review)

So that's my definitive Top 10 of 2011, I'm sure there are titles you don't agree with and that is okay, just as long as you are seeing movies and supporting the medium that deserves your patronage. Until next time...

Top Movie Honors in 2011

2012-01-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

Top 10 lists never seems to be enough to tell you about all the quality cinema within a given year. 2011, like so many other years housed a plethora of good movies that I feel like I need to share with all of you. In order to do that the way I see fit, I've decided to break down 2011's best films into ten genre based categories i.e. Foreign, Drama, Horror, Festivals, etc. You'll notice there isn't a set number of films in each group, just the titles I felt necessary to share from this calendar year under my criteria for consideration (films must have at least a New and York and Los Angeles limited release within the calendar year to be considered). Some categories are low because of so few quality titles or because I did not see enough quality titles in that particular sub-category to include more. There is also no set ranking here, the titles are just listed in random order. So without further ado, here we go...

Top Foreign Films in 2011

13 Assassins

Japanese director Takashi Miike is a beast when it comes to making movies. Every year it seems he turns out multiple films and each year they are not only worth watching but memorable. This year Miike's 13 Assassins easily made my list. Its a thrilling action that was on a number of year end lists in 2010, but based off my own qualifications 13 Assassins only played festivals within the United States barring it from consideration until this year. 13 Assassins follows a group of assassins that come together to seek revenge on an evil lord in 19th century Japan, a time when the samurai was losing his stature and power. The action has a delicate build to a relentless 3rd act that should not be missed. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray and DVD

A Somewhat Gentle Man

This one of the first movies I saw in 2011. Highly praised at a number of festivals in 2010, A Somewhat Gentle Man was a film I had to see. The comedy/drama follows Ulrik, a Norwegian man (Stellan Skarsgård) who has been released from prison after doing a twelve year stint and must readjust to life outside of prison. The dark comedy left me with a stitch in my side from all the laughter stemming from the situations Ulrik has to cope with in regular life. The foreign comedy has a dry sense of humor that isn't for everyone but I really found it be a nice surprise. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full review)

Submarine

Coming of age stories always intrigue me, and this wonderful little British comedy received high praise from 2011's Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah making it a must see for me. Richard Ayoade's directorial debut follows Oliver Tate, a fifteen year-old who is dedicated to loosing his virginity before his next birthday. The comedy is snappy and filled with witty dialogue that is prime for continuous laughter. Oliver is a hilarious character and actor Craig Roberts does a notable job in the lead. Actors Sally Hawkins, Noah Taylor, and Paddy Considine too deliver performances that help to make this comedy a memorable one. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

The Last Circus

From the first production still and plot description I was bent on seeing this movie. Then it played Fantastic Fest in 2010 to rave reviews making that unwavering desire to see it even stronger. Set in Spain and spanning multiple decades the horror tells a multi-generational story of a father and son who are clowns. The film focuses mainly on the son, who must play the role of the sad clown. The Last Circus is like a opera without any singing. It is a beautiful tragedy. It is over-the-top and totally insane in moments and absolutely gut wrenching in others. It is heavy-handed yet carries a certain level of grace and sophistication. The easiest way to describe it is stunning. It is a movie I will gladly keep on my shelf for many many years and share with as many people as I can. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray and DVD

The Skin I Live In

Pedro Almodóvar is one of those directors that if he made it, it is worth watching. Not all of his films have been my absolute favorites, but nonetheless his movies always make me think. His latest is no different. The Skin I Live In threw me through the ringer. I tend to like revenge movies and boy is this ever one of the craziest tit for tat stories I've seen in some time. I'm not going to spoil any of the details to this film, all you need to know is Pedro Almodóvar directed, Antonio Banderas gives a spectacular performance, and it is fabulous. It also contains one of my favorite scores in 2011 by Alberto Iglesias. Availability: Currently in Theaters/Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on March 6th, 2012.

The Yellow Sea

This is one of the best thrillers I have seen in years. Brutal and thrilling from beginning to end. The story follows a cab driver whose wife has gone missing and the lengths he is willing to go through in order to try and find her. Director Hong-jin Na is really setting a standard for edge of your seat thrillers. The Yellow Sea features some of the best and most grueling action I've seen this year. It also houses one of the best knife fights I've seen in a long while. Availability: Import Blu-Ray or DVD

Cold Fish

Every since I saw "Suicide Club" I knew Japanese director Shion Sono was someone I needed to keep my eye on and Cold Fish is another example of why I was right. This thriller is about the lengths one can push another individual, ultimately creating a killer. It is hilarious in moments, erotic in others but horrific throughout. Most of all Japanese actor Denden delivers an award worthy portrayal of a serial killer that caught me by surprise and left me stunned. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

I Saw the Devil

Earlier I said "The Skin I Live In" was one of the craziest revenge movies in 2011 and I stand by that but I Saw the Devil is one of the most relentless revenge films ever. The story follows a secret agent whose pregnant fiancee is murdered by a local South Korean serial killer. The secret agent takes matters into his own hands setting out punish the serial killer repeatedly. When I say repeatedly, I mean it, in a catch and release method the secret agent really puts a stretches the limits of what we thought the human body could endure and still live. The horror is not an easy watch and certainly contains a number of scenes that could make squeamish audiences turn their heads but it is well worth it. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Trollhunter

Shot in a documentary fashion this enjoyable fantasy horror follows a group of college students who are ghosting a Norwegian trollhunter. The film provides a number of chills and thrills as well as some fun action following the trollhunter as he takes on trolls throughout Norway. For a low budget found footage movie, I really dug the troll encounters and the tension each capture would contain. This is another horror that I would happily own and show off to friends for years to come. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Top Documentary Films in 2011

Senna

I hate car racing. It bores me. I like cars, but car racing, not interested. In comes Senna a documentary I'd heard absolutely nothing but positive about. Like-minded people who do not fancy car racing raved about this doc, so I had to give it a chance. They were right! Senna is a beautiful and painful human story about one of the world's best Formula One racers. He was an hero to Brazil, his home country and a icon to so many other Formula One drivers. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray, DVD

Project Nim

No other documentary took me through such an emotional roller coaster than Project Nim in 2011. The doc follows a chimpanzee throughout his life who was used in a scientific research. The research, if a chimpanzee could string words together to formulate sentences and communicate with humans. This movie made me laugh and cry. It infuriated me and fascinated me. It is a documentary that certainly deserves a look. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on February 7th, 2012.

Tabloid

Errol Morris is one of those filmmakers that when he makes a new documentary, you should probably watch it. Once again Morris delivers a engaging focus point, a sizzling tale about a former Miss Wyoming who was charged with abducting a young Mormon missionary into sexual escapades. The documentary is consuming. Listening to Joyce McKinney as she recants her side of the story is like the best gossip from co-workers or friends. The documentary isn't really an awareness documentary with some mission to it but instead just an eye-opener to one crazy story that is a lot of fun to listen to. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray, DVD

Justin Bieber: Never Say Never

Love him or hate him the kid has talent and this concert documentary displays that talent in a way that may make a few new fans of the pop star. Before seeing this documentary I'd never heard a full track of Justin Bieber, after watching, I bought his album. I'm not saying this movie will make you into a listener of his music but it will open your eyes to his talent. Not only that but Bieber is a true internet sensation and director Jon M. Chu does a solid job of documenting it and re-creating some of the fan fervor this Canadian kid has created by uploading some tracks to youtube. Regardless of your opinion on the pop star, this is a documentary that is worth watching just for the human story of this kid propelling himself from nothing to selling out Madison Square Garden. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

How to Die in Oregon

Assisted suicide is a loaded topic of discussion, one that many of us probably have very heavy beliefs and/or opinions about. How to Die in Oregon is a touching doc that focuses on a number of patients who have chosen to use assisted suicide under Oregon's state law. The film chronicles the various subjects from different periods in their decision making process to the final day. Let me just say that this documentary does not hold back very much if at all. A few subjects leave the actual passing out of the documentary but the impact is still there. This is one that left me thinking long and hard about my own feelings on this matter. The documentary has an agenda, but it is presented in a way that is not overbearing. Availability: Releases on DVD February 14th, 2012

Page One: Inside the New York Times

The transformation of how we get our news since the birth of the internet is a fascinating topic. The internet changed news and how we absorb it. Page One is a consuming documentary chronicling one year inside the New York Times media desk, a department that was created to cover the transformation of the media industry. The film digs into aggregate journalism something that I myself am apart of. When I first started this blog much of my day-to-day post were nothing more than aggregate journalism. Scouring the net for movie related news, then posting the information with my thoughts on the particular subject. There are thousands of sites just like mine doing the exact same thing. And I'm only covering entertainment industry news, there are bloggers covering world, political and local news as well. Perhaps this doc hit a little closer to home because of the blogging I do and how other people like myself have changed how people take in their news for better or for worse. It is a fascinating subject that is still evolving and Page One does a stellar job of illustrating the whole picture. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Top Animated Films in 2011

Winnie the Pooh

Disney went old school and it totally worked. I've been begging for a call back to hand drawn Disney animation and it looks like I wasn't the only one, Winnie the Pooh is a return to the old bear we've known for so many years. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

The Adventures of Tintin

Tintin is a big ball of fun! It reminds me of all the adventure movies I loved growing up. It is a genuine blast! Steven Spielberg shows us that even with the 3D cgi motion capture action, he still knows how to direct a thrilling adventure around the globe. The movie also contains the best one track shot in all of 2011. Availability: Currently in Theaters

Kung Fu Panda 2

The first Kung Fu Panda is a lot of fun and the sequel didn't disappoint. One testament to the sequel is that it doesn't necessarily feel like a sequel, it could very well stand on its own. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Rango

I've always been a big fan of westerns and Rango is just a fun western playing into all the typical tropes of the genre. It moves along a fun pace that will keep audiences of all ages engaged and houses some stunning animation that wasn't created by the juggernaut that is Pixar. One thing I loved about this movie was its ability to make the cgi desert creatures look authentic. Some of these desert animals are ugly and kinda scary to look at and I applaud that they didn't try to make them look cutesy in fear of scaring little children. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Top Comedy or Musical Films in 2011

The Guard

Technically, this film should be in the Foreign category being made in Ireland, but it is so damn funny that there is no way I could not include it in the Comedy category. Brendan Gleeson plays Sergeant Gerry Boyle, a unorthodox Irish police officer who is blessed with the gift of wit. Gleeson is a riot in the role. Nearly every line of dialogue can be mined for some form of laughter based off Gleeson's confrontational and sarcastic portrayal. Don Cheadle also stars as an uptight American FBI agent who finds himself unexpectedly working alongside the quick-tongued Sergeant Boyle. The laughter in this comedy stems from a darker more dry place, but it is nonetheless side-splitting. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 3rd, 2012.

Bridesmaids

One of the funniest movies of the year. What looked to be just another ensemble comedy ended up being a hilarious vehicle for longtime SNL regular Kristen Wiig to show of her wit. A rising comedy that had me crying from laughing so hard. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Midnight in Paris

Woody Allen back in top form with a film that appeared to be just another romantic comedy set in Paris but ended up being a superb homage to drawing inspiration from Paris. Owen Wilson delivers a first-class portrayal of a man awe inspired of the history that unfolds at night in Paris. A Woody Allen film always deserves a look but this one deserves a buy. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

The Muppets

The Muppets make their return and it was everything I could have hoped for. It made me laugh, it made me cry, hell it made me laugh and cry at the same time. The film is connectable for old fans of the Muppets while also easily attachable for a new generation. As a friend described to me after seeing the film, "Its like a nostalgic blanket of joy." A statement I couldn't agree more with. The Muppets is a joyful return to a group of characters I've cherished for a long time. Availability: Currently in Theaters

The Trip

Another film I could technically place in the Foreign category because it is from the UK but it is an absolute scream and I've placed it here instead. The film is a cut-down version taken from a six-episode UK television series. The Trip follows Steve Coogan who has been asked to tour and review six of the country's best restaurants. When his girlfriend backs out on going, Coogan is forced to call a friend to tag along who is also a constant source of vexation. Coogan and Rob Brydon who have collaborated previously in "Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story" are dynamic together. The duo really just work fabulously off each other providing continuous laughter. The fact that this film also mirrors as a food/travel show really adds something I extra, pardon the pun, ate up. I love travel and eating shows and The Trip very much plays itself like a mockumentary of that type of programming. Think Anthony Bourdain without the clever insight and just a ton of jokes. The movie is great but I also recommend tracking down the six episode series from the UK as well. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray, and DVD

Top Horror Films in 2011

Contagion

Some would want to argue its placement in Horror, but Steven Soderbergh's film is exactly that. Contagion is a gripping look at a horrifying virus and its spread across the world that is sharply put together and executed. It may not be a Horror in terms of a masked killer running around, but the elements of horror are all over this film like germs in a public bathroom. Cliff Martinez deserves major credit for creating one of the year's best score's, an odd combination of unnerving and addicting. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 3rd, 2012

We Need to Talk About Kevin

A must see film. A haunting horror about a mother who fails to develop a motherly bond with her first born son. Tilda Swinton delivers a chilling portrayal that could easily warrant an award. We Need to Talk About Kevin really worked under my skin because of the way it is structured and executed. The film leaves a lot of development untouched and opens more questions than it actually answers but it stayed with me after the fact. The film feels like a slap in the face to American parenting but it also raises a question on whether the film would reach the same outcome even if every precautionary step was taken. It is a film that will leave you talking and discussing with everyone who has seen it. Availability: Releases in limited Theaters on January 20th, 2012

Insidious

On paper this looks like another haunted house movie with all of the typical elements in place and while that all may be completely true, the James Wan directed horror still works in tremendous fashion. It provided scares in all the right moments, maintained a level of paranoia and unknown throughout the tale, and most importantly had a assembly of characters I didn't spend the movie picking apart. Insidious also holds one of the better haunting figures in 2011. The demon which looks like half goat and half Darth Maul really stayed with me after watching. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Blu-Ray, and DVD

Paranormal Activity 3

The third film in the mega-successful franchise is probably the most rewarding of the entire trilogy. This time the focus is on young Katie and Kristi and directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman find inventive ways to keep the same paranormal shenanigans going on back in the 1980's while being recorded via VHS tapes. As you'd expect Paranormal Activity 3 hosts a bunch of jumps and a ton of thrills and just enough new backstory to keep the audiences coming back for more. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 24th, 2012 (Full Review)

Top Thriller or Sci-Fi Films in 2011

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

A movie I waited all year long for and boy was it ever worth the wait, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a sophisticated spy thriller that is builds its intricate web of elusiveness with absolute precision. The period thriller is gorgeous to look at and should warrant itself a Academy Award nomination for the wardrobe/costuming if nothing else. Director Tomas Alfredson made a quiet thriller that takes a lot of patience and certain level of concentration to follow but packs a near-perfect riveting finish. This is the kind of film that deserves multiple viewings to decode and decipher all of the covert action and subtle details that are laced throughout the absorbing story. Finally the film belongs in a category of best use of score this year with Alberto Iglesias's jazzy and elegant original music. Availability: Currently in Limited Theaters/Expands Nationwide January 6th, 2012

The Lincoln Lawyer

Here's a film that I did not expect to any good. Over the year I've grown fairly weary for law procedural dramas or thrillers, but The Lincoln Lawyer is so good I finished it hoping to see further installments of defense attorney Mick Haller in action. Sophomore director Brad Furman didn't re-invent the wheel by any means but what he did do was put together a smart thriller that pushes all the right buttons at all the right moments. It helps that Matthew McConaughey was made for the sleazy lawyer role. The Lincoln Lawyer has a great cast, a engaging story, and really is an unexpected treasure in 2011. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

A reboot that actually did reboot the storyline instead of just start over. Rise to the Planet of the Apes may have given a few slight nods to the original franchise but this origin story sets up a whole new storyline that focuses on new more current political issues than retreading back through the old threat of nuclear war themes from the previous installments. This reboot firmly establishes a new timeline that 20th Century Fox should pursue with further installments under the 'Apes' banner. Rise also captures yet another enthralling motion-capture performance by Andy Serkis. Serkis brings Caesar to life like a real character. It really is a sight to behold. Serkis quite honestly deserves a nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Attack the Block

One of the most buzzed about films in 2011 and for a very good reasons, Attack the Block is filled with thrills, chills, laughs and pure gratification. Set in the UK a group of teen hoods come face to face with an alien invasion and set out to protect their neighborhood. The action comedy has witty dialogue throughout and a cast of teen actors that make each of the characters new favorites to enjoy repeatedly. The creature effects and action provide all of the chills and thrills but it be a sin not to mention Steven Price's entrancing score that helps to propel the adventure along. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

I'm going to account for this as one film. I skipped watching Part 1 in 2010 so that I could enjoy the finale of the franchise as one lengthy experience in 2011. I've never read the Harry Potter books so each film was all new to me and reaching the conclusion in these final two parts was a bitter sweet affair. Simply put, I loved The Deathly Hallows. It is not my favorite of the Harry Potter movies, but it was a thrilling finish to a franchise I enjoy and a wonderful conclusion that served me through a full range of emotions. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Hobo with a Shotgun

A new breed of melodrama grindhouse that wont be for everyone but for those that enjoy offbeat extremely violent satire, you are going to eat up Hobo with a Shotgun like broken glass. It does an excellent job of playing to its audience. It is a 21st century film that feels like it could have come from the 80's. It is excessive, hyper-violent and full of energy. It is flawed but overall it is a widely enjoyable film that quickly will become a new favorite of mine. A grindhouse I can easily watch over and over and show to anyone in the mood for a violent and extravagant experience. Lastly, I have to thank Jason Eisener for giving me another Rutger Hauer role to love. I grew up with Hauer and seeing him on screen again which so much passion and vigor really was a dream come true. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Top Action/Adventure Films in 2011

Fast Five

Its strange when you are watching the fifth movie in a so-so franchise and realize its finally caught its stride, but that was the sensation that zoomed over me while watching Fast Five. The fifth installment in the franchise embraced all the right components of the previous movies and put them together in one magnetic action. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Hanna

The best assassin thriller movie I never expected. Hanna has incredible balance. It works as a simple suspense action. It works as fish out of water drama. It works as a fairy tale. It works as a espionage thriller. It works as a coming of age tale. It also works collaboratively between all of these various subplots. All of the various levels come together quite nicely and make a exhilarating cinematic experience. Finally it would be a sin to not make mention of The Chemical Brothers hypnotic score. The score energizes all the action while also having an enchanted and playful feel for the more fairy tale elements on display. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Hugo

Martin Scorsese decided to try his hand at 3D and it ended up being a wonderful love note to filmmaking and the movies. The basic story is about one boy finding his place in life but there is so much more happening within the film that is a real joy to experience. Multiple times throughout the film I was rejuvenated with the spirit of why I love watching film so much. Martin Scorsese really has an adventure to tell in Hugo and while he tells it we realize how much cinema and the art of preserving film means to him (or how much it should mean to all of us). Availability: Currently in Theaters

Captain America: First Avenger

The best Marvel studio movie since Iron Man back in 2008. Director Joe Johnston brought the right bit of classic nostalgia and adventure to a period action with a lot riding on its success. Growing up I read a lot of Captain America and it goes without saying I was very nervous about how this project would turn out. The final product shows that Marvel took extra care with this banner character ensuring a quality product was turned out. The film kept a smile on my face from ear to ear and despite having a rushed finale really was a exceptional experience in 2011. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

X-Men: First Class

Before First Class X-Men fans were pretty weary about anything 20th Century Fox was releasing under the X-Men banner. I mean Fox shit the bed with "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" and restoring faith seemed like mission impossible but low and behold they pulled it off. First Class is actually my favorite of the X-Men movies Fox has turned out. They went out and got a quality cast, created a engaging script that incorporated historical events providing an extra sense of intrigue, and made it all come together in brilliant fashion. Fingers crossed Fox continues with the First Class storyline and doesn't squander away the good faith restored with this installment. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol

Director Brad Bird comes along and makes Mission: Impossible worth talking about again. M:I-4 has a wafer thin plot and a forgettable villain but it houses some of the best action sequences of not only the year, but of the entire Mission: Impossible franchise. Availability: Currently in Theaters

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

There is only one reason this movie made my list, the last hour of it. The last hour of this action is an all out assault on your senses seen in the right confines. The Chicago sequence in 3D true IMAX was a sight to behold. It was again, an assault on the senses. Much of it is completely ridiculous and the movie is by and large a over-long mess but this finale makes it all worth watching. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Top Drama/Comedy Films in 2011

Ceremony

Often times my favorite movies come from a very personal place. Something that while watching you can connect with because it feels natural. The film and its characters do not come across as a charade, as some put-on or laced with fantasy but instead something that is very close to a writer/director's chest and utterly authentic. Ceremony is one of those movies. It is undeniably charming and repeatedly hysterical. It is a film that grabbed my attention from the onset with its abrupt start and never let go. A good portion of that rests in the hands of the versed cast but the real meat of it comes from the incredibly talented first time writer and director Max Winkler. A man who now has my undivided attention for any forthcoming future endeavors. Availability: Blu-Ray, DVD, and Netflix Watch-Instantly (Full Review)

The Descendants

One thing that rings true about every single film featured in this category is its ability to have a simple story that focuses on basic human characteristics. Stories that we all can connect with. Movies that feel real and are about people that feel real. These movies I connect with like no other because they are raw stories that get my natural instincts. They aren't forced or derivative they are natural. The Descendants in particular illustrates a genuine balance. The film tells a tragic story in a funny way revolving around a husband and father who must confront the fact that his wife is dying and he must now raise his two daughters on his own. This is a movie that wears real life on its sleeve giving the audience a balance of emotion like none other in 2011. George Clooney gives yet another fantastic performance that could easily earn him awards. Availability: Currently in Theaters

The Myth of the American Sleepover

The Myth of the American Sleepover is a gentle, timeless look at the wonderment and exploration of our youth. It is a poignant coming of age tale told from four main characters perspectives as they move through the final weekend of summer. Writer and director David Robert Mitchell deliveres a beautiful film fixed on expressing true human emotions in a dream-like state. Emotions audiences far and wide will be able to relate with because of their universal connectivity. Availability: Netflix Watch-Instantly, Releases on DVD February 28th, 2012 (Full Review)

Beginners

A simple film that covers some heavy material. It is whimsical, passionate and smart when it needs to be. It is a brave film that feels extremely close to the chest of writer/director Mike Mills yet it is familiar enough that everyone watching will take something away from it. Its non-linear structure does leave the film feeling a little disjointed but in the confides of the story, memories are rarely pragmatic so it is easily rationalized away. Overall this a touching drama that I'd recommend any adult to see. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

50/50

50/50 is an emotionally enriching experience. It houses great laughs, a few tears and some very warm unexpected moments. It is hard hitting when it needs to be and satirical in all the right places. Director Jonathan Levine demonstrates an ability to capture some of the more gentile moments in a battle we can all associate with and balance them in between heartbreaking drama and generous humor. 50/50 is by all means one of the most touching and hilarious films of the year. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD January 24th, 2012 (Full Review)

Everything Must Go

Will Ferrell delivers a dynamite performance as a middle aged alcoholic who loses his wife and job on the same day in an unexpectedly good dark comedy. There is nothing new about Everything Must Go in terms of themes being covered. I'd describe it as a watered down "Bad Santa" without Christmas as the backdrop. Saying watered down isn't being fair because the relapse dramedy has its own heart that really shines through, what I meant is without all the extreme bad language and adult situations Bad Santa contained. It takes another person (who happens to be a child) to help the character learn to better himself. It was nice to see Ferrell not goofing off for a change and he really brought his A game to this quiet independent film. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Top Drama Films in 2011

Meek's Cutoff

I went to college wanting to be a history teacher. All of my upper division focus and research was on Manifest Destiny and the New West movement. Anything having to do with the expansion and development of the western American territories post of the Louisiana Purchase I wanted to soak up and learn as much about. Enter Meek's Cutoff, a film as a historian, I ate up. Not so much because of the story and its historical significance but because of the way it completely submerses the audience into the experience. Historically, the film is actually awful at explaining what you are witnessing. There is no setup whatsoever and it finishes off with what could be mistaken as an ambiguous ending. The drama is more of a companion piece for someone who already knows the historical background to the infamous Oregon Trail blazed by Stephen Meek and a number of emigrant settlers across the rugged desert. This is a "what they went through" and not a "lets give you a history lesson" film. While I appreciate both types, I've come to enjoy historical films that expect their viewers have a little background knowledge before going in. It allows the filmmaker to focus on the content, characters and their emotions rather than detailing all of the historical specifics. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

The Ides of March

An engaging drama that focuses on one political staffer getting a lesson in politics while working for a Presidential candidate on the campaign. The Ides of March houses three award worthy performances from Ryan Gosling, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Paul Giamatti. Gosling carries the film without error however both Philip Seymour Hoffman and Paul Giamatti overshadow him each in their own pivotal scene. Outside of all the caliber performances, Ides delivers a powerhouse drama illustrating the power political ideologies can have over the masses as well as a crash course in how cutthroat politics can be. Availability: Currently in Limited Theaters, Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 17th, 2012

The Tree of Life

There are things we rarely talk about with other people. Things we internalize and wrestle with ourselves. Questions about who we are and how we became the people we are. Thoughts about what happens when we die. Questions that can be traced back to our upbringing and our parents but also things that are inherent in everyone and everything. Broad stroking questions and/or themes that have been prevalent since the dawn of existence. The Tree of Life comes across as director Terrence Malick's personal thought process through a variety of these massive over-arching questions that we all can relate with. It is poetically inspired, visually stunning and a daring expression of one person's tussle with the questions of life. It is a film that feels inherently personal yet is equally universal. It is a experience like none other, a film that houses fantastic performances conveying honest questions about faith, the meaning of life and innocence. See it, absorb it and discuss it. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Moneyball

Moneyball is a very quiet film that started to work its magic on me after seeing it. It is one of those movies that gave me a huge "aha" moment after watching and just blew me away. On the surface the drama is a nuts and bolts movie about the inner-workings of MLB management. A movie that could alienate some audiences with all of the baseball lingo and statistics but the human element really carries all of the weight. Moneyball hits a home run with its subtle yet profound message about our own ambitions and determinations in life. Brad Pitt delivers a subdued portrayal as the A's general manager Billy Beane that really helped to build the human element to the drama. Availability: Currently in Limited Theaters, Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 10th, 2012

Drive

Drive represents a new western set in modern Los Angeles. The drama takes risks that pay off time and time again like little exchanges between Irene and the Driver where no words are said yet all the emotions are conveyed. There is a crazy balance in Drive that is steady and reserved but peppered with brutality and volatile eruption. It feels like Nicolas Winding Refn wanted to make a throwback that paid homage to the thrillers and muscle car movies of the 1970's while it also comes across as a slap in the face to the conventional blockbuster action movie. It plays off stereotypes we see repeatedly and it could have very easily came across cliched and trite but instead it is handled with precision, care, and attention. Drive is a breath of fresh air and reminds us that not all of our heroes have to have a name or even a backstory to leave a lasting effect. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD January 31st, 2012 (Full Review)

Jane Eyre

I remember being assigned to read this book in high school and hating it. In fact, I did not read more than the first four or five chapters before just saying, "screw it, I'm not finishing this." Fast forward twenty years and enter director Cary Fukunaga who gained my undivided attention with "Sin Nombre" decided to adapted the story and I had to give it a watch. That watch was well worth it, Jane Eyre is absolutely stirring. It is a elegantly told gut-wrenching love story. Both Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender deliver striking performances that capture the full joys and pains of undying love. I've yet to watch any other versions of this classic tale and for my money, I've got my definitive version thanks to Cary Fukunaga's direction. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

The Help

Adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name, The Help is not based on a true story although it certainly details aspects of a long standing subculture inherent in south. In actuality, the novel started off as a way author Kathryn Stockett used to remember a maid/nanny she was co-raised by. What the book (and film) became however, is much more meaningful. It is a powerful snapshot of how bravery the of a few people can inspire change in many. The period drama is an emotional experience that balances rage, sorrow and gratification in a nearly-spotless fashion. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

A Better Life

On the surface A Better Life is a compelling drama about a father and a son. Focusing on a father trying to teach his son to be a better man. Underneath that tried and true theme however is a much bigger story of a illegal immigrant trying to remain invisible in East Los Angeles while also providing for his son. This is a political drama without ever standing on a soapbox. The story is divisive in that it has a message it is pushing on its audience, but at the same time it never becomes the bleeding-heart that you could expect from a drama with ulterior motives. This is instead a poignant story of what continually happens in the United States. It is a political hot spot that causes plenty of debate on both sides of the topic, however this film presents the situation (or controversy) in the simplest of terms, raw human emotion. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD (Full Review)

Take Shelter

There is a recognizable weight upon a father's shoulders knowing full well they hold the livelihood of others in their hands. Take Shelter sets its sights on a father who fears something terrible is coming and must prepare his family for the worst. Each of his decisions effect all the people he loves tremendously. As a father, I found the drama directed by Jeff Nichols to be bone chilling and unnerving through and through. On the surface, the film focuses on a father/husband whose world is crashing down because he is having paranoid delusions about an apocalyptic future, but beneath the surface the film feels like a stark metaphor for a worsening economic climate. What makes the film so terrific is that both the literal and figurative definitions work without error. Availability: Releases on Blu-Ray and DVD February 14th, 2012 (Full Review)

Warrior

Warrior is an assault on your emotions. The film batters you all the way through with emotional punch after punch after punch. It is utterly manipulative and entirely on the nose. Everything is written to conjure some specific emotion within the audience. Thing is, despite it being very obvious how much this movie wants to emotionally tear you apart, it works. Part of what makes Warrior work is the devastating performances by both Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton. Both sides of this story build beautifully. The opposite stories contrast one another and also mirror each other following two estranged brothers seeking the same goal for different reasons. Much like so many other movies within this list, Warrior feels close to director Gavin O'Connor. There is something he is working through within this film and the culmination is tremendous. The body language that is developed between the brothers in the final fight is utterly remarkable. I could feel each and every punch and kick coming across clear as dialogue. Finally, Warrior features the best bookend of music this year with The National's two song's "Start a War" and "Today." Both songs are a perfect match to film and its destination. Availability: Blu-Ray and DVD

Top Festival Films in 2011

The Invader (L'envahisseur)

It is clear with his feature length debut director Nicolas Provost wanted to make a splash and he certainly achieved that with The Invader. It is a film that soothes, shocks, leaving you bewildered and needing to reflect. It is uncharacteristic look at an immigrant vying to figure out how he fits in and exactly who he is but it is also a haunting tale that leaves the audience thinking about the impact Amadou is certain leave with them. Availability: TBD (Full Review)

Rabies (Kalevet)

The best horror movie I saw this year! Rabies is not your traditional horror, instead it plays off all the typical tropes we've seen reused time and time again in countless horror movies. This film surprised me repeatedly which tends to be a hard thing in horror these days. Every time you think you know what is about to happen, Rabies flips it on you. I really hope this film Isreali horror film finds itself a US release in some form so others can enjoy a true change of pace in horror. Availability: TBD

The Loneliest Planet

I saw a lot of quite movies with very little happening throughout 2011 but none that affected me as much as The Loneliest Planet did. The film follows a young couple as they backpack through the Georgian wilderness. The film plays the off the notion how one gesture can change the entire dynamic of a relationship. The film builds slowly capturing the gorgeous Georgian countryside in a very strange enclosed way. Director Julia Loktev does a compelling job of keeping the audience secure within the confines she wants. For instance we never see the sky, giving a feeling of entrapment within a majesty of the wilderness. Availability: 2012 TBD

Beyond the Black Rainbow

Easily the most interesting experience I faced in a movie theater. It is an endurance challenge that most will not want to take. It is psychedelic, hypnotic, tedious, and eerie. Described to me as John Carpenter meets Stanley Kubric, it is clear that director Panos Cosmatos was going for a different feel to his film and wanted to challenge his audience. The film only runs 110 minutes yet it feels like a 180 minute experience. Its a movie that you can take a deep sigh of relief once its finished, but then it begins to work its magic. Beyond the Black Rainbow stays with you and infects you like a virus. I saw this film at AFI Film Festival and I wanted to see it again later on in the fest It is a film that I would proudly own and test out on would-be victims from time to time. Availability: 2012 TBD

The Innkeepers

A skeptic ghost story. A film that builds off the conventions of what we believe to be a paranormal haunting and raises the question, what is actually happening? Is there a ghost or are we just psyching ourselves out? Ti West is a brilliant director and really knows how to play with the confines of horror and here in The Innkeepers he does exactly that. By the end of the movie, audiences could have a valid argument about what occurred and both sides could have valid grounds. There is a bit ambiguity to Ti West's tale that again, leaves it up to the audience to decide what actually happened. Sara Paxton and Pat Healy work incredibly well off each other as the last two employees working on the last days of a old Inn deemed to be closed. Healy provides laughs in basically every scene he is in and Paxton is pitch perfect in the lead. Availability: Currently available via VOD, Releases in limited Theaters Feburary 3rd, 2012

Extraterrestrial (Extraterrestre)

Director Nacho Vigalondo seized my attention with "Timecrimes" so I had to see his follow-up. Extraterrestrial is a real funny romantic comedy. Nacho described it himself as Three's Company with an alien invasion going on in the background, which is a pretty accurate description. The romantic comedy is filled to the brim with laughs. Nacho shows off his dialogue skills displaying a uncanny ability to write engaging and hysterical comedy that provides a ton of laughs and feels natural. The cast also helps to ring in the laughs as does the situations that Nacho sets up the romantic triangle set to an alien invasion. Availability: 2012 TBD

Jeff, Who Lives at Home

The Duplass brothers are two guys that I want to see everything they do, Jeff, Who Lives at Home is the duo's second major studio film starring Jason Segel and Ed Helms. Told in a day in the life format, the story follows Jeff as he's sent out on a routine errand by his mother which ends up turing into an adventure that leads Jeff to discover his destiny. Its a small adventure with big heart and laughs. The Duplass brothers have a knack at telling natural stories that focus on simple, mundane ideas and actions but making them feel grand. Once again they pull it off without error. Availability: Releases in Theaters on March 2nd, 2012

You're Next

Another horror film that plays with the confines of horror genre. You're Next feels like "The Strangers" meets "Deliverance." A film that follows a family who re-unites for a weekend only to have their getaway interrupted by a group of armed assailants. The hitch is the assailants did not expect to find a survivalist among the family who begins to strike back. Much like the burglars in "Home Alone" face various traps for their demise, so do these attackers. The horror is full of energy and has some brutally fun kills that horror audiences are going really cheer for. Availability: 2012 TBD

Review - Sleeping Beauty

2011-12-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

Lucy, a college student who is willing to do anything for the right price, takes on a job that introduces her to a whole new world of submission for pay.

Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world. Since ancient times men and women alike have been selling their bodies for profit in some form. These practices are something that has generally remained a taboo part of society. We know it is there and that it goes on, yet the majority just turn a blind eye to it. "Sleeping Beauty" is not seeking to elaborate on the legality of the system, but more so to paint a portrait of one individual. The problem is that the individual 'Beauty' chooses to focus on, is so generic and drab there is zero intrigue following her character other than simple carnal desires.

The character of Lucy is a dime a dozen. A pretty girl that is willing to do anything in order to make money. Everything from medical testing to prostitution. If she can make money using her body, she will do it. Actor Emily Browning plays Lucy as able as she can, but there is nothing to hold on to. Her character is a hollow vessel. She is a portrait of too many women in this world that rely on their good looks to get them through life. Writer and director Julia Leigh adds a minor downward spiral to Lucy's character, but it doesn't stick, the character is simply too vanilla to care. She's not a character that you look at and say, "what is she doing with her life? She could be doing so much more." She's not a character that is so dark and deplorable resentment is able to fuel watching the character spin out of control either, instead she's bland and boring.

The only spark of intrigue in "Sleeping Beauty" is within the world Lucy is brought into. A secretive high-society network of unspoken desires. Lucy is approached to take part in a practice that she will have no control over. As a participant she will be rendered unconscious for a period of time, while asleep, paying individuals will be able to carry out their personal fantasies with one hitch; absolutely no penetration. The men that pay for this service require complete privacy of what goes on while the beauty sleeps. It is these men, that provide any shred of intrigue to "Sleeping Beauty." I've seen a story about the lengths a person will go to make money dozens of times, but one about what some are willing to pay in order to carry out their fantasies, that seems far more taboo and worth exploring. Eli Roth for instance dug into this idea with his film "Hostel." His path albeit much darker than Julia Leigh's film, was at least daring enough to push the boundaries of the evils that man can do. Perhaps Leigh's film is more about submission, but unfortunately that doesn't provide enough of a spark to give the film any lasting effect. The film is lackluster and outside of a few brief moments, tedious.

One thing that really worked against the erotic tale is the cold exterior it gives off. The film tries to carry a level of elegance. That elegance is on display in the set dressing, but not in the story or execution by any means. Instead it comes off cold and concealed. Some of this is intended, the world Lucy is made privy to is suppose to be anonymous, the patrons pay a premium to remain nameless and the person running the operation works very hard at maintaining that. That said, the anonymity ends up working against the tale. The audience is never given any reason to connect or care. In fact, the audience is never pushed in any direction. Both sides of this service could provide despicable actions within the plot that could have given the audience some kind of reaction, yet the film again remains cold. Neither side is allowed to become anything other than right down the middle. It is as if Julia Leigh did not want to really dig into the nature of this concept. If anything this film feels like a first pass. Something that only skimmed the surface of the topic, when instead it should have gone much deeper into either of the sides within the tale. Unfortunately "Sleeping Beauty" tries to rely on eroticism and it isn't enough, Leigh's film needed to take things a step or two further.

The last thing I feel needs touching on is the title itself. Using a title like "Sleeping Beauty" instantly resurrects thoughts and feelings about the classic Grimm fairy tale. While watching Julia Leigh's film I wondered if the erotic drama was even going to try and evoke any fantasy elements or metaphors we could possibly relate with the classic tale. The answer, barely. The slumber Lucy is put under holds a slim representation to the metaphor of sleep being death. There is some interesting food for thought about Lucy's willingness to submit to this slumber repetitively. The problem is Julia Leigh's script doesn't dig into the character's reasons for participating outside of the basic monetary gain. Then there's the topic of breaking the spell, and once again, Leigh's film only skims the surface of what it could really explore.

Fight for 35mm

2011-11-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

Going to the movies is one of my favorite pass times. Its something I've loved since being a wee lad. The excitement of seeing a movie I've longed to see, the act of arriving at the cinema and seeing the movie's title on the marquee along with its poster, the smell of popcorn, the rush of sitting with a crowd of people who are also excited to see the movie, and the dimming of the lights, all play into my life long love for the cinema experience. Studios (specifically 20th Century Fox) are now vying to alter that experience, they want to stop distributing archival 35mm prints. The notion is to shift to only digital projection. Reasons for doing this are plain and simple, cost. Storage, shipping, and sustaining the 35mm film print is more expensive than digital. While I can understand the dollar and cents mentality the studios have, my appreciation for 35mm film and the people who operate and care for these prints outweigh the financial reasoning. There is a human element, a sense of pride and real care projectionists put into screening a film print for an audience, something that could eventually vanish with this digital transition. One place that takes pride in the fact they only screen 35mm film prints is the New Beverly Cinema in Los Angeles California and they have decided to start a petition urging studios to continue producing and distributing 35mm film prints. Guess what, you can help! Take a look below to see how you can help the New Bev and other revival theaters around the country continue to showcase cinema that makes up the fabric of film history from around the globe.

Julia Marchese, a passionate employee of the New Beverly Cinema and cinephile alike started the petition after reading the press release from 20th Century Fox. Julia's vehement response to the Fox decision on her blog is one I share. I do not want to see film projection turned into a simple button pushing task that requires no skill. Since the Industrial Revolution, we've seen machines take away the human element of work. Slowly but surely working our way from craftsmanship waving a banner reading production and efficiency, but truly representing cutting cost. Projectionists have a real passion for film, something that I believe rings through when I watch a 35mm film projected. Why? I know that someone has previewed each film beforehand. They've prepared it for my viewing. They also sit throughout the screenings ensuring the projection and sound quality are at their best. Taking on that job is someone who adores cinema and I want that person continuing to have a job. You reduce film projection to button pushing, hard drives, and digital projection, you'll likely take away all the pride projectionist have in their job thus losing the position altogether. If there is no skill, you can hire anybody to do the job, hell you could even make the system fully automated. As I'm hammering home, it wouldn't be the first time industry removed the human element.

The human element is something that the folks at the New Beverly Cinema are really good at. When you are there you can feel how important film is to them. Everything from the programming to concessions has the patrons in mind. Their programming at times can be overwhelming because they can fill a calendar with nothing but amazing programming you do not want to miss on a big screen. I'd hate to think that the New Beverly would be unable to continuing screening awesome archival prints because Fox wants to cut costs. There is real history in those prints. History that deserves to be shared, maintained and then shared again and again for new generations to enjoy in a theater. Please help this cause and sign Julia Marchese and the New Beverly Cinema's petition by visiting Fight for 35mm today!

Review - The Invader

2011-11-07T18:54:00.000-08:00

An African immigrant living illegally in Belgium is desperate to find his own sense of belonging.

"The Invader" is an uneasy movie on a number of levels. One, it tells the depressing struggle of an illegal immigrant living in Belgium who is essentially under a form of enslavement. Two, it parallels the desperate plight of a man struggling to find acceptance within society. Three, it houses a eerie depiction of a man as he becomes more and more infatuated with an affluent woman. These three arcs blend together in an downward spiral of the main character Amadou that is absolutely riveting to watch unfold.

Director Nicolas Provost creates delicate balance between sorrow and fear for the main character Amadou that will leave you spellbound. Early on, the story leans heavily on the manipulation of Amadou's despairing situation. His blunt arrival, the confines of his job and housing, added with the disappearance of a close friend are all played to invoke sympathy. Then little by little that empathy for Amadou is chipped away and replaced with anxiety. Each new situations that crumbles around Amadou wears on his psyche. On screen Amadou's slow yet steady decline of mental stability is haunting, though off screen, the audience's exchange from rapport to restlessness with Amadou is what is sure to keep your mind turning after the fact. The character of Amadou works his charm so that the audience lowers their guard but by then he has you, and the title of "The Invader" resonates its full meaning.

Issaka Sawadogo is hypnotizing as Amadou. The role is not an easy one by any means. Director Nicolas Provost is asking a lot from any actor portraying the character of Amadou and Sawadogo pulls off the transitions with utter precision. He's charming, he's endearing, he's intimidating and he's most of all recognizable. He is a common man people can associate with. Maybe not his exact situation, but his struggle of trying to find a place in life, is something we all face. Those inner emotions that we rarely talk openly with others, Amadou wears these on his chest and Issaka Sawadogo portrays them with pure conviction.

Another entrancing factor to "The Invader" is the guerrilla-like cinematography utilized by Frank van den Eeden capturing the cityscape of one bustling Belgium city. Much of the film follows Amadou as he moves throughout the city. These scenes capture the comfort Amadou feels within this hustling city as well as the despair. The audience watches as he sweet-talks people walking past in moment and then sits lethargically on a park bench the next. These sequence blend in and out of consciousnesses. Almost like Amadou's sanity is balancing between two planes. It came across completely intentional and I loved the emotions it left me tooling around with.

It is clear with his feature length debut director Nicolas Provost wanted to make a splash and he certainly achieved that with "The Invader." It is a film that soothes, shocks, leaving you bewildered and needing to reflect. It is uncharacteristic look at an immigrant vying to figure out how he fits in and exactly who he is but it is also a haunting tale that leaves the audience thinking about the impact Amadou is certain leave with them.

Review - Miss Bala

2011-11-06T15:07:00.000-08:00

A pageant hopeful in Tijuana is forced into the hyper violent modern world of organized crime in Mexico.

"Miss Bala" is a thriller dedicated to giving the audience a no-nonsense telling of the Mexican cartels and their stranglehold in modern society of Mexico. The film uses a beauty pageant hopeful named Laura who is pushed against her will as the focus to propel the story but it is the overarching depiction of how entrenched the cartels are in Mexico that becomes the truly horrifying aspect to watch. Their control could be described as an octopus, in that the cartels have their tentacles wrapped around every possible tangible from politics to the economy in order to maintain dominance and fear. Director Gerardo Naranjo's footnoted statistics that dovetail the film actually burn like salt in a wound because it is clear that stories like "Miss Bala" go on and have been going on for quite some time in Mexico.

Director Gerardo Naranjo chose a very specific story to depict the cartels control and I was never able to feel the tension that was intended through Laura's plight. Even without disassociation from the character, Laura never felt more than a pawn in the cartel's scheme. Just another cog that helped to make their machine continue to turn. While on a human level clearly I felt for what Laura is going through, but based on her decisions and motivations, it was hard to care about what was unfolding. As awful as it sounds, Laura solely comes across as another lamb to the slaughter, but perhaps that is just a defense tactic so that I never allowed myself to care for the character.

Stephanie Sigman delivers an effective performance as Laura Guerrero. The role is bleak from the onset not to mention nearly mute and Sigman conveys a full range of panic and fear without error. Sigman illustrated a woman complacent in the fact that there is no where that she can hide from the clutches of the cartel and their plan. She has been selected and she can either play along or be killed like so many others. The crux to Laura's fear is connected with the character of Lino Valdez aptly portrayed by Noe Hernandez. Hernandez displays a genius methodical villain in Lino that is soft spoken and gentle yet deeply intimidating. I could easily watch a spin-off film focusing solely on Lino and his masterminding. Hernandez is the one thing that really pushed a sense of alarm in "Miss Bala," his presence is absolutely hair-raising.

Cinematographer Mátyás Erdély and director Gerardo Naranjo do an interesting job of disorientating the audience with the camera work. Much of the perspective comes in a third person sense, as if we are following directly behind Laura as she is subjected through a number of situations and schemes to execute the cartel's agenda. Naranjo also chose a very deliberate pace that feels hellbent on slowing things down for the situations to play out. Many of these sequences become uncomfortable, pushing the suspense forward while others feel over-thought and just a bit too heavy-handed.

"Miss Bala" is a success in that is brings to light the deeply disturbing control of the cartels in Mexico. Where it waivers is its dedication to mixing the ills of Mexican cartels in the plight of a beauty pageant hopeful. Laura is a connectable character and plenty will have a raw connection to her, though I believe a more gritty account of the cartel would have made a deeper impact than this soft spoken tale. The thriller is built as an intense ride but it never fully captured the true sense of paranoia and fear it intended.

KCET Fall Cinema Series

2011-10-25T15:38:00.000-07:00

Just as one KCET Cinema Series ends another is beginning. KCET's seasonal Cinema Series is shifting its location from Santa Monica to North Hollywood. The Summer and Fall series are held at the Aero theatre in Santa Monica while Fall and Spring series will be held at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in North Hollywood on Tuesday evenings. Just like the series over on the Westside of Los Angeles, each screening during the late fall series will feature eight new major films prior to their theatrical release. Not only that but each screening includes a lively Q&A moderated by film critic Pete Hammond. Take a look at what's in store so far for the Fall Cinema Series that runs October 25th through December 13th as well as all the details on how to attend below...

October 25th - "The Artist"

The film is by French director Michel Hazanavicius, a charming story set in Hollywood's silent movie era. The central characters are a fading silent film movie star played by Jean Dujardin, who recently won Best Actor at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival for his role, and the beautiful rising starlet of the new talkies portrayed by actress Berenice Bejo. The film is reminiscent of the real love affair of John Gilbert and Greta Garbo. The film itself is silent, shot in black & white and on location in Los Angeles. Q&A immediately follows with stars, Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, and director Michel Hazanavicius.

November 1st - "The Descendants"

From the director of the smash-hit "Sideways" and "About Schmidt," Alexander Payne directs this touching drama starring Academy Award winning actor George Clooney as the aristocratic land baron Matt King who learns that his wife will never recover from the coma she is in from a sudden boating accident. He now must reconnect as the sole parent with his two young daughters and contend with the startling knowledge that his wife was having an affair with a man who he was contemplating an important land deal. Set in the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii, with a musical score of traditional Hawaiian music. Q&A to follow with guests TBD.

November 8th - "The Lady"

Director Luc Besson takes a look at the extraordinary story of Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize winner at the core of Burma's democracy movement, and her husband, Michael Aris with "The Lady." Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) and David Thewlis (Naked) star. The screening will be immediately followed with a Q&A moderated by Pete Hammond with actor David Thewlis.

November 15th - "My Week with Marilyn"

The film is based on two books by Colin Clark, and depicts the making of the 1957 film THE PRINCE AND THE SHOWGIRL, and focuses on the week in which Marilyn Monroe spent time being escorted around Britain by Clark, after her husband Arthur Miller left the country. Stars of the film include: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh, Judi Dench, and Emma Watson. Q&A immediately follows with TBD.

November 22nd - "Albert Nobbs"

A film that originated on stage back in 1982 with Glenn Close playing a woman who disguises herself as a man in order to persevere in a male dominated 19th century Ireland. After years of trying Close has finally brought the story to screens with director Rodrigo García. The film also stars Mia Wasikowska, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Brendan Gleeson, and Aaron Johnson. "Albert Nobbs" is set for theatrical release January 27th. A Q&A with guests immediately following the screening is TBD.

November 29th - "The Iron Lady"

A bio-picture about former Prime Minister of England Margaret Thatcher with Meryl Streep in the lead role and Jim Broadbent playing Margaret's husband Denis Thatcher. The film is said to be told through a series of flashbacks and is set for December 30th release via the Weinstein Company. A Q&A with guests immediately following the screening is TBD.

December 6th - "Young Adult"

Director Jason Reitman takes a jarring look at a self-absorbed divorcee fiction novelist who returns home to try and reunite with an old high school flame who is now married with children. Charlize Theron stars in the lead role of Mavis Gary. Patrick Wilson and Patton Oswalt have supporting roles. "Young Adult" releases December 9th. Q&A will follow screening with guests TBD.

December 13th - TBA

Movies run every Tuesday evening and will begin promptly at 7PM. For reservations and passes to the KCET Fall Cinema Series call 323-953-5800 today. Passes are going fast and if you want to see some great movies ahead of their release you will need to be apart of KCET's Cinema Series. Stay tuned as new dates are scheduled I will be updating this post.

Cost Levels:
$168 per person for current KCET Members Only
$185 per person non-members
$20 at the door upon AVAILABILITY

Source: KCET

Review - Take Shelter

2011-10-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

A husband and father begins to suffer from horrible apocalyptic visions. Afraid he might be at the onset of paranoid schizophrenia he seeks help only to find his visions worsening. With fear that his visions may be true, the young man begins to put all of his energy into building a shelter that will protect his family from his worst fears.

As a father and a husband I have a responsibility to provide for my family. That obligation, albeit one filled with plenty of joy, can be stressful at times. Thousands of factors play into holding together our daily lives not to mention our future. There is a recognizable weight upon a father's shoulders knowing full well they hold the livelihood of others in their hands. "Take Shelter" sets its sights on a father who fears something terrible is coming and must prepare his family for the worst. Each of his decisions effect all the people he loves tremendously. As a father, I found the drama directed by Jeff Nichols to be bone chilling and unnerving through and through. On the surface, the film focuses on a father/husband whose world is crashing down because he is having paranoid delusions about an apocalyptic future, but beneath the surface the film feels like a stark metaphor for a worsening economic climate. What makes the film so terrific is that both the literal and figurative definitions work without error.

"Take Shelter" is a very quiet movie. There is a deliberate approach to the sound design, cinematography and editing that all combine to build the unnerving sense of fear and panic within the main characters as well as anxiety within the audience. Plus the drama houses a beautifully eerie score by David Wingo that comes in ever so subtly yet with miles of impact. Much like a coming storm, the audience sees the signs and feels as the paranoia and fear grows stronger and stronger within the main character Curtis. The audience balances back and forth between the delusions Curtis is having and not only how those delusions are effecting his immediate family but also his friendships and job. Director Jeff Nichols' drama intentionally becomes uncomfortable as the audience watches this father spiral further and further out of control.

Being a very slow burn "Take Shelter" hinges on the performances of its actors. Carrying most of this load is Michael Shannon in the lead role of Curtis. Shannon is no stranger to bold characters and here, he once again shows he has the chops to keep the audience glued to his portrayal. Shannon conveys the conflict and fear Curtis is facing as a father struggling to provide for his family with apocalyptic visions become more and more intense with the utmost precision. Again the analogy of our current economic climate resonates to both the literal events happening in the story and on a much larger scale. These visions Curtis is suffering are not exclusive to him, if true, they will effect everyone and Shannon conveys that weight without error. Jessica Chastain also delivers a seasoned performance as Curtis' wife Samantha. Chastain does an exceptional job of portraying a wife/mother who fears the worst as she watches her husband spiral further and further into his delusions. Not only the concern she has for her husband as his visions take hold but the fear that she also faces as their lives begin to unravel. Lastly Shea Whigham deserves a heap of credit for playing a very small but important role as Curtis's best friend Dewart. Much like the character of Samantha, Dewart fears the worst for Curtis. He watches as this man is allowing his world to crumble around him. There is a lot of pain Dewart has to cope with as he loses his best friend to paranoia and delusions and Whigham pulls it off in expert fashion.

One final aspect I found fascinating is a slight sense that the visions Curtis is seeing throughout "Take Shelter" may be real. You tell yourself the visions can't be real just like the characters do in the drama, but something just keeps nudging that Curtis might not be going crazy. One side says that director Jeff Nichols is just playing with reality versus delusion, but the other side says these moments seed into the paranoia and anxiety Nichols has so elegantly weaved into a story that reflect our nation's current times. There has been a growing fear and sense of panic in America for a number of years post 9/11 and I think Nichols does a poignant job of representing that on screen through the lives of a recognizable working class family.

Review - Paranormal Activity 3

2011-10-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

The third installment of the Paranormal Activity franchise see's the story travel back to 1988 where little sisters Katie and Kristi first encounter an entity that will go on to haunt them throughout their adult lives.

'Paranormal Activity' is now a viable horror franchise. Making the shift from a stand alone horror film to a franchise can mean disaster or longevity. In the instance of the 'Activity' brand, the latter seems to be working out for them. Producer Oren Peli, and the rest of the producing team have done an able job of expanding the story while barely moving the franchise forward. Each new film has given audiences new backstory instead of a traditional sequel to the original "Paranormal Activity" that released in 2009. Quite honestly, it seems they could continue this pattern for a couple more rounds before jumping forward in time rather than dabbling in the past.

Something about the Paranormal Activity films that I love is the simpleness of them. Each film is strangely comforting because the patterns the first film created. Let me clarify, I don't mean comforting in a way that is soothing, but more that you know what to expect. When the text runs across the screen "Night #1" or "Night #8" the audience knows what lies ahead. Better yet, the anticipation of it happening is what audience feeds on. This format is simple. Give us the set up and make us wait and see what happens. It may be something very small or something completely unexpected but when it does happen the moment becomes instantly gratifying.

While I say this format is simple, the art of making it work is not. There is a factor that makes it work so well, the tease. Each Paranormal Activity film knows how to build and tease the jump scares. "Paranormal Activity 3" is no different. Directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman pull out some of the best moments out of all three movies. Stuff that I refuse to tease myself here. These movies are best seen without prior knowledge about any of the scares because its the not knowing what could happen that hooks you. Much like a haunted house maze, the fear of not knowing what's around the corner, or in this case what will happen during "Night #3," is what makes these horrors so frighteningly fun.

The spin "Paranormal Activity 3" takes back to the past works pretty well. I liked seeing Katie and Kristi's first interactions with the paranormal entity. Plus the film expands things a whole new direction I really didn't see coming. Without any revealing, I love the turn the series has taken and am thoroughly excited for more development in the coming years. These films almost feel like serials now. Its like I expect every year to enjoy a new Paranormal Activity movie much like the Saw fans did for awhile. Also like the Saw films, these installments can't go on forever, but I can easily see another two or three before growing tired of the schtick.

Review - Margin Call

2011-10-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

A thriller that revolves around the key people at a investment bank over a 24-hour period during the early stages of the financial crisis.

"Margin Call" is a smart thriller that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat. The cutthroat story contains a number of proficient performances yet it is never able to connect the audience to the Wall Street investment bank's host of characters as writer/director J.C. Chandor would like it to. The film goes out of its way to over-humanize a group of people that played a major part in our current economic downfall. Characters that can easily be deemed as villains if told from a different perspective leaving that storyline to become a whole other effort the audience must face.

There is a learning curve to "Margin Call" and it doesn't wait around too long for the audience to catch-up. The thriller thrives on forward progress. Centered around a firm that is poised to possibly sell its shares ahead of an unforeseen crisis, the pace of the of 105 minute drama moves briskly. Thankfully the pace never makes the film feel hurried, instead it comes across steadfast on reaching its outcome without losing any impact along the way.

The impact itself comes not so much from the content throughout "Margin Call" but the masterly performances by Kevin Spacey, Zachary Quinto, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, and Stanley Tucci. Sure the content demands a portion of the audiences's attention and houses some material that could hit close to home for a percentage of viewers but the real payoff comes in the superb deliveries by the talent filled cast. It was a nice surprise to see Paul Bettany back in a dramatic role versus fighting angels or vampires in some apocalyptic future. Kevin Spacey pulls off another compelling performance but his character was a major thorn in my side. His character Sam, is one of the prime examples of how director J.C. Chandor tries to humanize these barons of the financial district. Had the script toned back a bit of the effort to make the audience sympathize with Sam (and other characters) I may have not been pulled out of the suspense so many times. Reversely Zachary Quinto and Paul Bettany's characters come across fairly authentic. Actually, authentic is not the right word, because the entire film feels authentic, their characters I was able to connect with despite having ill feelings towards the general basis of who their characters are. Much of that boils down to the fact their characters are far less humanized. Instead they are mere cogs in a much larger machine who simply feel like pawns in a chess game.

The containment of "Margin Call" also helps to build a sense of tension I didn't expect from a economic drama. Nearly the entire film is shot inside of a office building. This allowed the audience to feel apart of this firm and the detrimental financial decisions they are weighing over the course of a 24-hour period. It also allowed for director J.C. Chandor and cinematographer Frank G. DeMarco to work quickly, something that probably weighs into the prompt pace. Most importantly working within the office setting really gave the film and firm a detached feeling it needed.

"Margin Call" is a riveting film that really packs a bunch of tension in a highly-contained film but sadly, it is one I see most of America ignoring. It is a film that will fly right over too many people's intelligence. It is a sad state of affairs when an intelligent thriller comes along and the majority of America will not see it because of the plot or lack of awareness. This is a film I can imagine people complaining there is too much talking. Imagine that, they do make movies that are not completely comprised of explosions, sexy models and/or gigantic mechanical robots. Despite my negative outlook on the general audiences of America, "Margin Call" is a smart thriller that deserves a look and more attention than I bargain it will receive.

AFI FEST 2011 Lineup

2011-10-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

October is nearly over which means AFI FEST is right around the corner. This year marks the 25th edition of the Festival and like previous years before the line-up is shaping up to be another incredible year of film. The full line-up has been announced and I thought it be important to share. Below I've included what films are screening in AFI FEST's Gala, Special Screening, New Auteur, Young American, World Cinema, Breakthrough, and Midnight categories including the directors as well as a brief synopsis of each film screening. Also information on a special Spotlight on director Joe Swanberg featuring his Full Moon Trilogy...

Galas

"The Artist"Directed by Michel Hazanavicius

Silence is golden in director Michel Haznavicius’ delightful and dialogue-less black-and-white feature about Hollywood’s bumpy transition from silent films to “talkies.”

The end of silent films and the birth of talkies, sign me up! I've seen the trailer for this on the big screen and you can rest assured I will be pushing to see what looks to be a fantastic historical piece shot in stunning black and white.

"Carnage"Directed by Roman Polanski

Roman Polanski directs a dream cast of Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, Jodie Foster and John C. Reilly in a razor-sharp, acidly funny comedy of ill manners.

Polanski knows how to spin a good drama and with this cast its hard to believe CARNAGE will not measure up.

"J. Edgar"Directed by Clint Eastwood

As the face of law enforcement in America for almost fifty years, J. Edgar Hoover was feared and admired, reviled and revered. But behind closed doors, he held secrets that would have destroyed his image, his career and his life.

Usually I'm a sucker for historical pieces but something about this retrospect on J. Edgar hasn't grabbed my attention. Don't think that means I won't check it out, its Clint Eastwood, of course I'm watching it.

"The Lady"Directed by Luc Besson

Luc Besson tackles the inspiring true story of Burmese activist, leader and political prisoner Aung San Suu Kyi, exquisitely portrayed by Michelle Yeoh.

This has the potential to be one the this year's best political pieces. Luc Besson hasn't blown me away in quite some time yet this just looks real special plus Michelle Yeoh and David Thewlis are extraordinary actors.

"My Week with Marilyn"Directed by Simon Curtis

Michelle Williams gives a luminous performance as Marilyn Monroe, ably supported by Kenneth Branagh and Judi Dench in this intimate portrait of the tragic Hollywood icon.

Never been much of a Marilyn Monroe fan but with Michelle Williams and dame Judi Dench involved this might be worth a look.

"Shame"Directed by Steve McQueen

In director Steve McQueen’s searing follow-up to HUNGER, Michael Fassbender delivers a fearless portrayal of a man spiraling out of control into sexual addiction.

Though I haven't seen HUNGER, from what I've heard, SHAME is a sight to behold. Outside of my carnal desires to see the hyped eroticism both Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan are incredible actors that I would watch in practically anything they committed to.

Special Screenings

"Butter"Directed by Jim Field Smith

Jennifer Garner stars in this comedy about a Midwestern housewife who embarks on a ruthless campaign to conquer the world of competitive butter carving.

"Coriolanus"Directed by Ralph Fiennes

In his directing debut, Ralph Fiennes masterfully adapts Shakespeare’s gripping tragedy about power, politics and pride into a bracingly modern and urgent political thriller.

Ralph Fiennes adapting Shakespeare, sold.

"I Melt with You"Directed by Mark Pellington

Four friends gather for an annual birthday celebration in Big Sur and come face to face with the hard truths of who they have become.

"Into the Abyss"Directed by Werner Herzog

In his fascinating exploration of a triple homicide case in Conroe, Texas, master filmmaker Werner Herzog probes the human psyche to explore why people kill – and why a state kills. Like a modern IN COLD BLOOD, Herzog's investigation unveils layers of humanity, making an enlightening trip out of ominous territory.

"Jeff, Who Lives at Home"Directed by Jay Duplass and Mark Duplass

On his way to the store to buy wood glue, Jeff looks for signs from the universe to determine his path. However, a series of comedic and unexpected events leads him to cross paths with his family in the strangest of locations and circumstances.

I have a man crush on both Jay and Mark Duplass. Everything they've put their hands on I've enjoyed and with them casting Jason Segel and Ed Helms I am thoroughly excited to see how this comedy turns out.

"The Kid with a Bike"Directed by Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc Dardenne

Awarded the Grand Prix at this year's Cannes Film Festival, this tale of redemptive love bares the Dardennes’ evocative signature style.

"Melancholia"Directed by Lars von Trier

Denmark's most celebrated and notorious filmmaker returns with a drama about depression, severely dysfunctional families and the end of the world.

The reviews are out and while they haven't been all positive I'm ready to see Lars von Trier's latest theatrically.

"Miss Bala"Directed by Gerardo Naranjo

Gerardo Naranjo’s haunting and elegant film tells the story of a beauty pageant hopeful swept up in the violent world of Mexico’s drug cartels.

Mexican drug cartels, beauty queens mixed together in a crime drama, not to sound too alpha male but this sounds exactly like what the doctor ordered.

"Pina"Directed by Wim Wenders

Wim Wenders captures the world of choreographer Pina Bausch and her dance company in spectacular 3D with thrilling performances of many of her most famous works.

Ballet in 3D, yup, I'm there!

"Rampart"Directed by Oren Moverman

Woody Harrelson gives a ferocious performance as a dirty cop who is embroiled in the Los Angeles Police Department's infamous Rampart corruption scandal.

"We Need to Talk About Kevin"Directed by Lynne Ramsay

Tilda Swinton gives a career defining performance as Eva, a reluctant mother whose contentious relationship with her evil son sheds new light on the nature vs. nurture debate.

I'm dying to see this movie. Tilda Swinton can do no wrong and based off buzz from Sundance and Fantastic Fest this is a movie not to be missed in 2011.

New Auteurs

"Attenberg"Directed by Athina Rachel Tsangari

Awaiting her father's impending death, 23-year old Marina explores her newly awakened sexuality through lessons from her only friend Bella and with Spyros, a visiting engineer.

"Bonsai"Directed by Cristián Jiménez

In Cristian Jimenez's wry and nostalgic tale of love and literature, struggling writer Julio revisits and revises his memories of his college romance with Emilia.

"Bullhead"Directed by Michaël R. Roskam

BULLHEAD is a gripping portrait of Jacky (Matthias Schoenaerts), a cattle farmer whose 'juicing' has transformed him into a bull of a man.

High praise coming from Fantastic Fest puts this film near the top of my must see list at AFI FEST.

"Hanaan"Directed by Ruslan Pak

In this gritty crime drama, Stas, a drug-addicted cop, retreats to the Uzbek Mountains to kick his habit and plot revenge for a friend's death.

"The Loneliest Planet"Directed by Julia Loktev

Intensely in love and engaged to be married, a young couple finds their journey through the Caucasus Mountains abruptly spun off course by one crucial action.

Gael García Bernal is one of those actors that I have to see whatever he's done. Match that with a interesting synopsis and what looks to be breath-taking cinematography, THE LONELIEST PLANET is something I will be making an effort to check out.

"Michael"Directed by Markus Schleinzer

In his debut film, director Markus Schleinzer crafts a superb thriller about seemingly normal Michael and his relationship with 10-year old Wolfgang.

"Oslo, August 31"Directed by Joachim Trier

REPRISE director Joachim Trier takes us on evening's journey through the city of Oslo with Anders, a young man who is wrestling with the ghosts of the past and an uncertain future.

"Restless City"Directed by Andrew Dosunmu

New York City is gorgeously photographed in this story of an African immigrant in love with music and a beautiful woman he cannot have.

"Snowtown"Directed by Justin Kurzel

In his feature film debut, director Justin Kurzel brings to the screen the horrifying true story of Australia's most notorious serial killer.

Young Americans

"The Color Wheel"Directed by Alex Ross Perry

Bickering siblings JR and Colin embark on a comedic and cathartic road trip through the diners, motels and thrift stores of the Northeast.

"The Dish and the Spoon"Directed by Alex Ross Perry

Hellbent on revenge, rage-filled Rose seeks out her husband's lover but is derailed when she strikes up an unlikely relationship with a quiet teenage boy.

Greta Gerwig is an actor that I have my eyes set on, each new role she takes on has been charming and sophisticated. You'd think I might be less interested in THE DISH AND THE SPOON with her in yet another romantic role but you would be incorrect.

"Dragonslayer"Directed by Tristan Patterson

DRAGONSLAYER captures the life and times of Josh "Skreech" Sandoval, a local skate legend and new father, as his endless summer finally collides with the future.

"Green"Directed by Sophia Takal

Genevieve, an intellectual New Yorker, moves to the rural South with her boyfriend, where a friendship with a local woman sends her spiraling into jealousy.

"Spark of Being"Directed by Bill Morrison

Award-winning experimental film director Bill Morrison masterfully retells the classic tale of Frankenstein, using meticulously repurposed found footage.

"Wuss"Directed by Clay Liford

Mega-dork Mitch is a substitute teacher who finds himself forced to take a stand when his students take their ridicule too far.

This first still (pictured above) from the film along with the title WUSS have me intrigued enough to want to see this tale about a substitute teacher.

World Cinema

"Almayer's Folly"Directed by Chantal Akerman

Chantal Akerman loosely adapts Joseph Conrad's novel set in Malaysia, the tragic tale of a failed European trader and his "mixed blood" daughter.

"Alps"Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos

DOGTOOTH director Yorgos Lanthimos returns with a tale of a group offering an unusual service for grieving families: They inhabit the role of the recently deceased.

After DOGTOOTH director Yorgos Lanthimos has my undivided attention and this concept just sounds plain mind-boggling. Really looking forward to seeing how this twisted tale turns out.

"Arirang"Directed by Kim Ki-duk

Traumatized by a near-fatal accident during filming, director Kim Ki-duk offers a visionary self-portrait of a troubled artist reeling from an emotional breakdown.

"Café du Flore"Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée

In his follow-up to C.R.A.Z.Y., Jean Marc Vallée tells two parallel stories connected by music about a Montreal D.J. and a mother devoted to her special-needs son.

This sounds intriguing and definitely worth a look.

"Carré Blanc"Directed by Jean-Baptiste Léonetti

One of the strongest debuts in years, CARRÉ BLANC is a dystopian sci-fi vision of a world with limited resources and limitless cruelty.

Sci-fi, ding ding ding ding!

"The Day He Arrives"Directed by Hong Sang-Soo

In director HongSang-soo's sublime black-and-white vision of Seoul in winter, a filmmaker's visit to an old friend reverberates with déjà vu-inducing parallels and repetitions.

I have a sneaking suspicion this may be worth a look.

"Extraterrestrial"Directed by Nacho Vigalondo

TIMECRIMES director Nacho Vigalondo's surprising second feature finds an alien invasion providing the backdrop for one of the most delightful romantic comedies in years.

Director Nacho Vigalondo is another young director that has my full attention. TIMECRIMES is one of my favorites and after a solid amount of buzz coming from Fantastic Fest this year you can bet your bottom dollar I will be making it a priority to see Nacho's latest film.

"Faust"Directed by Alexander Sokurov

RUSSIAN ARK director Alexander Sokurov offers a poetic meditation on Goethe's legend of the scholar who exchanges his soul for unlimited knowledge.

"Footnote"Directed by Joseph Cedar

With wit and pathos, Joseph Cedar tells the story of a rivalry between father and son, both professors in the competitive world of Talmudic scholarship.

"The Forgiveness of Blood"Directed by Joshua Marston

In MARIA FULL OF GRACE director Joshua Marston's assured second feature, a modern Albanian teenager finds himself ensnared in his family's ancient blood feud.

The synopsis alone has me lures me in add the fact that Joshua Marston is directing and I certain will make an effort to see this drama.

"The Invader"Directed by Nicolas Provost

The Invader tells the riveting story of an African immigrant who flees near-enslavement and fights for survival in a European city where he does not belong.

"Jiro Dreams of Sushi"Directed by David Gelb

With stunning cinematography and a score by Philip Glass, David Galb's documentary about renowned 85-year-old sushi master Jiro Ono is a complete feast for the senses.

"Kinyarwanda"Directed by Alrick Brown

Set in 1994, KINYARWANDA interweaves six true tales into one epic narrative about the Rwandan genocide.

"Mama Africa"Directed by Mika Kaurismäki

A documentary film about the late Miriam Makeba, the charismatic South African singer and anti-apartheid activist who became the voice and the hope of Africa.

"Once Upon a Time in Anatolia"Directed by Nuri Bilge Ceylan

A confessed killer leads detectives to his victim's body in this slow-burning and far from routine police procedural from Turkish master Nuri Bilge Ceylan.

"Play"Directed by Ruben Östlund

Based on actual events, PLAY follows a group of kids lured from an enclosed mall into remote woods by another group with possibly nefarious intentions.

"A Separation"Directed by Asghar Farhadiv

Winner of the Golden Bear in Berlin, this drama is a complex portrait of an Iranian family torn apart by a divorce and an escalating feud.

"The Silver Cliff"Directed by Karim Aïnouz

Abandoned with shocking cruelty by her husband, Violeta embarks on a heartbroken 24-hour odyssey through the bustling and beautiful cityscape of Rio de Janeiro.

"Target"Directed by Alexander Zeldovich

In this flamboyant and ambitious Russian science fiction drama, a wealthy couple from Moscow search for the source of eternal youth.

"This is Not a Film"Directed by Mojtaba Mirtahmasb and Jafar Panahi

Banned by Iran from filmmaking for 20 years and threatened with imprisonment, Jafar Panari offers a remarkable portrait of an artist at the crossroads.

"The Turin Horse"Directed by Béla Tarr

An apocalyptic vision of the harsh lives of peasants in a pitiless landscape, this enigmatic and beautiful film marks Hungarian master Béla Tarr's farewell to cinema.

This is a must see! The imagery and synopsis instantly attract my attention.

Breakthrough

"Expecting"Directed by Francisca Fuenzalida

In Chile, a young girl and her boyfriend wait for a black-market drug to take effect in this tense and insightful examination of teen pregnancy.

"Light of Mine"Directed by Brett Eichenberger

Rapidly going blind, photographer Owen and his wife Laura take a life-changing trip to Yellowstone National Park where they experience a beauty that rivals their tragedy.

"Three and a Half"Directed by Naghi Nemati

Three women risk everything and travel to the northwest Iranian border in hopes of escaping prison and reuniting with their comrades.

"With Every Heartbeat"Directed by Alexandra-Therese Keining

In this Swedish romantic drama, uptight Mia attends her father's engagement party and not only gains a stepmother, but also a new lover, Frida.

Midnight

"Beyond the Black Rainbow"Directed by Panos Cosmatos

An intense and hallucinogenic sci-fi film set in 1983, director Panos Cosmatos' BEYOND THE BLACK RAINBOW is a one-of-a-kind film experience.

Highly touted at Fantastic Fest means this is a top priority at AFI FEST.

"Headhunters"Directed by Morten Tyldum

In this thriller, corporate headhunter by day, art thief by night Roger will do anything to keep his gorgeous wife happy, even stealing from the wrong adversary.

A number of very good friends absolutely loved this movie which means I must see it so I can share in the pleasure.

"Kill List"Directed by Ben Wheatley

As bills stack up and pressures at home mount, an unemployed dad realizes it's time to get back on the horse and kill some people.

Look at the image (pictured above), that alone is reason enough to be peeing my pants in anticipation for this film. I've heard nothing but praise about it and its been a film I've wanted to see since hearing buzz from Austin's South by Southwest Film Festival. There is nothing that will stop me from seeing this asap.

Spotlight: Joe Swanberg

"Silver Bullets"Directed by Joe Swanberg

In the first film of his Full Moon Trilogy, director Joe Swanberg explores autobiographical issues of filmmaking, sex and the collision of art and reality.

"Art History"Directed by Joe Swanberg

In the middle chapter of his Full Moon Trilogy, Joe Swanberg plays a filmmaker directing his wife and his friend in an intensely erotic film.

"The Zone"Directed by Joe Swanberg

A veritable Russian doll of films nesting within films, the final chapter of Swanberg's trilogy pushes the boundaries of the fourth wall beyond reality.

Remember AFI FEST 2011 runs November 3-10 and free tickets will be made available to the general public on October 27th at 10 a.m. PDT.

Source: AFI FEST

Review - The Thing

2011-10-15T17:27:00.000-07:00

A Norwegian research team in Antarctica discovers an alien spacecraft leading to a confrontation they never imagined.

"The Thing" may share the same name and creature as the 1982 John Carpenter movie, but it does not share the same structure of horror. The prequel directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. is an all out monster movie whereas John Carpenter's film is more of a cliffhanger. To be more specific, Carpenter's version thrived off keeping the audience guessing, where this time, the audience knows where the alien is for nearly the entire ride. The switch to a monster-attack movie versus a whodunit never allowed any real sense of paranoia to set in between the characters or the audience for that matter.

The tagline of the the prequel is "it's not human, yet," which I find to be telling in the overall sense of what I got from the alien. Being a prequel, we see a unwiser version of the Thing. In John Carpenter's 1982 film, the alien or Thing is trying to remain anonymous in order to survive, but here we see a Thing that is far less stealth about its replication process. The Thing spends a majority of the film out in the open mimicking multiple forms at once. By the end of the film, the Thing has learned that it must be more concealing if it is going to survive and spread. Much of this is rationalization however comes after the fact of watching the film, meanwhile during the 103 minute horror, I was left thinking why does this advanced life form seem so much less-intelligent?

Much of the blame could be placed on the filmmakers who believed that advances in cgi could allow for more elaborate mutations of the Thing, but truth be told, the practical and special effects used in the 1982 film are more haunting and scary than the detailed cgi monsters within this 2011 prequel. Most of the cgi on display felt unnecessary. One example is the form that is excavated by the American team from the Norwegian base in John Carpenter's 1982 film. This prequel makes sure to deliver setup to how that Thing was left burned to be later taken by the American team but it also creates a lengthy chase sequence that is reminiscent of a Velociraptor scene set in the kitchen from Steven Spielberg's "Jurassic Park." Much of the movie takes on this attack mode that I really didn't enjoy or expect. The audience is subjected to multiple sequences with the Thing just destroying and attacking every human left unharmed instead being sleuth about its actions and trying to escape unnoticed.

"The Thing" actually does a decent job of being a prequel to John Carpenter's 1982 film in the sense that it sets up what we already knew, however I wish the film was brave enough to be completely about the Norwegian team and their discovery. The movie opens this way complete with subtitles but the plot quickly finds a way to include a host of American characters to the story. Conveniently enough, all of the Norwegians also speak perfect English once the Americans have arrived. This development felt like a screenwriting cop out as well as not having faith American audiences would watch a horror movie with subtitles. The one bright side to Americanized shift is a strong female main character, although that doesn't replace the fact "The Thing" is plagued with an abundance of characters that the audience is never allowed time to connect with.

The biggest missing ingredient in "The Thing" is terror. There is never any true sense of fear. Director Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. made a creative decision to go for jump scares instead of unsettling fear of the unknown and that was a mistake. The film had a perfect opportunity to create a scary new chapter in the saga of the Thing from another world but missed the mark in a big way. Sadly, the best thing about the 2011 prequel is that it does an awesome job of closing the film with the opening to the 1982 masterpiece by John Carpenter.

Review - The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence)

2011-10-15T15:56:00.000-07:00

A mentally ill man who is obsessed with with the horror movie "The Human Centipede (First Sequence)" decides to take his fantasties to the next level by creating his own human centipede.

"The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence)" is a response by director Tom Six to everyone who said "The Human Centipede (First Sequence)" wasn't grotesque enough. The audience wanted to be repulsed and Tom Six set out to give it to them. While Tom's decision to react to the audience complaints is a problem on its own, the film itself presents a whole other batch of problems. The biggest one being that the horror begs the audience to throw out any sense of reason or logic so that we can be inundated by the revolting third act. I am getting ahead of myself though, let me talk about a few other issues before I dig into the stomach turning third act.

So much of what I loved about the first 'Human Centipede' was the film's satire and comedic tone riddled under a horrifying experiment. The audience had Dr. Heiter, a character that is truly atrocious but is also awkwardly endearing. Take his love for his three-dog, it is hysterical and provides a ton of much needed comic relief to a hard to swallow subject matter. It is clear that Dr. Heiter is deranged just the character introduced in '(Full Sequence)' Martin, but he had a quality that propelled the movie from being just another sick horror film. He gave the film a hook that worked. This time the tone has changed, there is nothing to laugh at. The audience may find themselves laughing, but it will be at the absurdity of what is unfolding or as a means to release a bit of the tension 'The Human Centipede II' houses.

The character of Martin is not a complete failure. For one, Tom Six and Ilona Six deserve credit for finding actor with such a haunting look as Laurence R. Harvey does. My initial thoughts seeing him on screen were not about how vile of a character he is but what the actual human being had to most likely endure growing up. Let's just say that Laurence R. Harvey's presence on screen takes effect from the first sight of him. He is a unsettling individual and Tom Six knew to take full advantage of Harvey's disadvantages.

One thing in "The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence)" that deserves a round of applause is Tom Six's decision to use black and white to shoot with. It presents a haunting picture that really added dimension to the character of Martin not to mention the dreary and unsettling tone to the film. The black and white cinematography also helped to allow Tom Six to get dirty and not lose the impact. Too often lately, the really gory blood has looked fake, but here in black and white, the darkness of blood translated in a way that might have been harder to master in color. This brings me to how sloppy '(Full Sequence)' is compared to '(First Sequence).' The original Tom Six horror felt clinical and clean while being completely deranged where as this time everything is blunt, dirty and repulsing. One of plenty examples illustrating Tom Six recoiling to the reactions that the first film wasn't gross enough.

Logic can be a tricky beast. There are plenty of examples in cinema where logic is thrown right out the window and the film/story still works without error. 'The Human Centipede II' is not one of those examples. Instead it is the lack of logic that removes the audience with the first ten minutes. First is Martin's means of capture. He shoots and bludgeons his victims in a manner that really begs the question if they would be able to survive. Not only that but the length of capture, days span by and the audience is expected to believe these numerous victims are able to survive gaping wounds for extended periods of time. As the bodies pile up another obvious question becomes apparent, why aren't these victims trying to escape? Most of them lie on the floor with no real sense of fear or struggle. These victims are duct-taped at the wrists and feet only for days, with no resistance, these victims should have been able to rip or tear out of the tape. Especially once there are multiple victims lying next to each other. Why wouldn't they band together before Martin forces them together? Another example is the location where Martin captures his victims. Martin works in a parking garage. He stalks his victims through video monitors acting at the opportune moments. This works at first but then there is a question of authority. When people go missing, people began looking. No one ever comes looking. This parking garage seems like it is the middle of nowhere except there are is constantly new victims popping up. Also, this job would seem to require more than just one employee or at least a supervisor but we never see one. We just get a mentally ill character working on his own with no superiors. There are a number of other factors that will not elaborate on like the stature of Martin versus some of the people he is over-powering and carrying or his health that also raise an eyebrow but again, Tom Six requires his audience to forget about any of that logic just for the sake of the reactionary third act.

The third act of 'Human Centipede II' achieves its goal, it is more gross than 'Human Centipede,' but that is about it. All of the coarse and heinous acts are sickening, but without any lasting effects. I found myself having to turn away in a few moments but these scenes are never intense or reach a true sense of fear they could. They are just gross. I respected the fact that the original film teased grotesque yet never fully delivered it. While here when director Tom Six gave his vocal critics what they wanted, it came off as nothing more than a cheap spectacle. I was duped. I feel like I just drank some elixir that promises to give me increased stamina or some other grandiose claim but in fact was just a hoax. Director Tox Six has digressed with his sequel. Instead of making a quality sequel he decided to pull a "I'll show you" approach to film making. The result is a failure.

Review - Real Steel

2011-10-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

In a future where the boxing we know has vanished and been replaced with robotic boxers controlled by human beings, one down on his luck controller named Charlie Kenton finds himself taking care of his 11-year-old son who he's never met. Despite the distance between the father and son, the two soon discover common ground with a bot named Atom that just might have enough ability to get Charlie back into the limelight and give Max Kenton a real father.

Back in 1987 a movie called "Over the Top" starring Sylvester Stallone released. It was about a long-haul truck driver who moonlights as an arm wrestler trying to restore a relationship with his estranged son. "Real Steel" is the 21st century update to that movie. Director Shawn Levy may not cop to my claims, but the film is nearly beat-for-beat the same movie. You can exchange arm wrestling with over-sized rock 'em sock 'em robots and boom you know what you are in for. With that said, what worked before works again. I found myself thoroughly entertained by the spectacle of "Real Steel" and pleasantly surprised with the genuine heart within.

Much of the heart doesn't actually come from the relationship between the father and the son, instead it comes from the circuitry of the main robot named Atom. Let me clarify, Atom is the catalyst to the heart of the story. He is the friend Max Kenton needs while his father Charlie is not ready to cope with parenthood, he is the means to Charlie reliving his glory days and he is also the bridge that will restore a relationship between a father and his son. Atom is also possess his own heart. The cast aside shadow-boxing bot takes his beatings inside the ring but it is the emotional payoffs he delivers outside of the ring that showoff his true heart. I credit director Shawn Levy for having the know how to lay down some subtle and emotionally rewarding sequences with a robotic form.

Stan Winston's creature shop Legacy, deserves a heap of credit for creating Atom and the rest of the robotic boxers. All of the robots conveyed authentic character that really rang through on screen. The creators behind "Real Steel" were wise to take a chance and build physical bots to use with the actors. There is one scene in particular with Max and Atom where Atom picks up Max and shadows his movements. This scene slams home how important it can be for actors to work with a physical being rather than imagining, not to mention being one of the better emotional moments in the story. Don't get me wrong, cgi is awesome and this film relies heavily on computer graphics, but the presence of these bots in the movie really added another level of enthusiasm and authenticity.

"Real Steel" is stuffed with thrills. Every single one of the boxing matches are a ton of fun to watch. The scenes have a nice blend of sensation and comedic relief. Like the movie explains about the sport, it is a spectacle to watch these robots battle. Being machines it is easy to not suffer as they are bashed and mashed either. I remember always being gut wrenched watching as Rocky or Daniel Larusso were beaten within an inch of their life. The audience will still feel the impact of the destruction on screen, but unlike if these were real humans it is easier to keep yourself unattached to the brutal beatings on display.

Outside of robotic boxing, there isn't anything new in "Real Steel." The film goes through the same tropes and beats you would expect any sports or relationship movie to. The audience follows a typical underdog story spliced together with an alienated son trying to win the affection of his self-absorbed father. Director Shawn Levy deserves notoriety for showing the ability to deliver an even keeled relationship/sports movie that never played its hand to heavily. There are sappy moments that will make certain audiences members cringe but they never become overbearing or to the point where it pulls the viewer completely out of the story. Overall the thrills and action within the robot boxing ring outweighed any negative emotional beats I found in the predictable plot.

Review - 50/50

2011-09-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

A realistic narrative following a 27-year-old male diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and his struggle to fight it.

"50/50" is pitched as a cancer comedy however, the film directed by Jonathan Levine and written by Will Reiser feels more like a natural approach to detailing an individual's battle with cancer. Sure it houses a great deal of comedy, but so does our daily lives. Even in our own dark and troubling times, there is comic relief to be had and or seen. "50/50" merely showcases those lighter moments in an endearing fashion that helps to lessen the blow of the hard-hitting realization cancer can evoke in all of us.

As much as the title itself is a representation of the main character's chance at beating cancer, it also resembles a balance of the film's emotions. Fifty percent drama and fifty percent comedy. A combination that creates a stirring blend repeatedly hitting the audience with troubling moments but also complimenting them with plenty of gratifying laughs. The dramedy earns its R rating with a frequency of adult language and situations. Some audiences may find the humor a little crass however, within the confides of our main character and his best friend, the dialogue and situations seem natural just like the approach to the story.

It should be noted that "50/50" is just as much about relationships as it is this person's struggle through cancer. The biggest relationship being between two best friends though we also have a number of other relationships peppered in. Thankfully the relationships come across being pivotal in shaping Adam while he battles through cancer instead of being simple redundant plot fillers or character tropes. I did find the development of these relationships utterly predictable. That said, it never mattered based on the powerful performances delivered by the entire cast.

There is a noticeable chemistry between Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Adam and Seth Rogen as Kyle. Brotherly feels is a perfect descriptor of their relationship. The two guys worked really well off each other never giving any reason to doubt their friendship or its importance. Joseph Gordon-Levitt pulls off a remarkable performance as Adam though before I talk any more about him, I have to say how taken back I was by Seth Rogen. Rogen can be very abrasive and generally wears thin on my patience but here in "50/50," the actor manages to show restrain. As Kyle, Rogen produces one of my favorite performances of his to date. Back to Gordon-Levitt, the talented actor once again shows off his chops. Gordon-Levitt is feels fragile as Adam just as much as he feels confident. He produces a tender portrayal that could very well earn some nominations (or at the very least, buzz towards a potential nomination).

The supporting cast is also fantastic. Namely Phillip Baker Hall, Matt Frewer and Anjelica Huston. Hall and Frewer play friends that Adam makes while under-going chemotherapy. Much like the character of Kyle, these friends really provide some side-splitting laughter as well some profuse dramatic ploys. Huston plays Adam's over-protective mother Diane in passionate fashion. Huston is always on point in her performances but Will Reiser's script really added some genuine backstory and character development that allowed the audience to latch on to her. There is really something to be said by how well Reiser's script fashions in simple yet effective developments into a majority of the supporting characters making them connectable for the audience. So many films try to achieve the same thing yet very few are able to do so. Bryce Dallas Howard also deserves some points for her performance as Adam's unsure girlfriend.

Overall "50/50" is an emotionally enriching experience. It houses great laughs, a few tears and some very warm unexpected moments. It is hard hitting when it needs to be and satirical in all the right places. Director Jonathan Levine demonstrates an ability to capture some of the more gentile moments in a battle we can all associate with and balance them in between heartbreaking drama and generous humor. "50/50" is by all means one of the most touching and hilarious films of the year.