THE* SPLITS

"Nightcrawler" - A Re-Breakthrough Performance by Jake Gyllenhaal

2014-11-12T17:02:00.003-06:00

How do you describe "Nightcrawler"? Hmm.. I liken it to "Drive", "American Psycho" and "Taxi". Haven't seen any of those? No need to fear. I'll obviously go into more detail.

The story begins by following Gyllenhaal's early 30s character as he aimlessly looks for any type of work in Los Angeles, CA. He stumbles upon the idea of filming graphic/shocking imagery and then selling it to news stations.

Slowly, we begin to understand Gyllenhaal's character. It is revealed that he is a highly functioning, highly driven sociopath. He's willing to go to any lengths in order to be the best at what he does, which includes very unethical and highly manipulative actions. We are brought on this turbulent journey and want him to succeed but by the film's end we may be feeling differently.

Examining consumerism at a hysterical level(shock value TV) is the important message here. This is done as an almost cautionary tale. We constantly want this shock but what about the means in order to get it? We lose sight of our own ethics and everything becomes meaningless.

The direction and especially the acting by Gyllenhaal made this movie. This film is a marking of a new phase for Gyllenhaal (god, I hate typing his name). I'm quite happy with his recent turn in films: "Source Code", "End of Watch", "Enemy", and "Prisoners". Even the supporting actors really draw you into this filthy world where you just cannot look away.

If you want to immerse yourself into an original and engrossing story, look no further.

Overall grade: A-

"Interstellar" is Muddled, Ambitious, and Ultimately Underwhelming

2014-11-12T16:33:00.000-06:00

Never has a more ambitious film been such a disappointment. Now, I'm not saying this was a bad film by any means. I've seen A LOT of bad movies, and most on purpose (for kicks). Anyways, I believe one of the two messages of this film is very important and conveyed perfectly in the first half and then muddled and essentially compromised towards the end.

The message (or 1st message in this case) is that humans are destined to conquer the stars and leave this rock we call Earth, especially when the planets forecast is not at all favorable. We have Matthew McConaughey's character blatantly state this and of course when he is chose to pilot a spaceship through a wormhole to another galaxy to explore potential habitable planets, he quickly says goodbye to his family. The relationship between himself and his two kids (daughter and son) is examined to give weight and then of course tested by his need to leave the Earth and perhaps never come back. This, of course, is the second message. Leaving family and loved ones is difficult.

Immediately, we are in space and follow McConaughey and company as they venture into the wormhole and how they plan to use their time to explore the planets surrounding a black hole (which, by the way, isn't possible). McConaughey attempts to use time sparingly as every hour on said planet will be the equivalent of 7 years in Earth's time. Relativity plays a large role with how it has kept those away from their loved ones for extended periods of time and this is when things begin to get muddled as I mentioned earlier.

So, how is it possible to promote the idea of humanity and its exploration of the stars when the central characters are obviously troubled with leaving in the first place? Love is even examined as a 'force' in this Sci-fi film. This is very aggravating. The climax of the film is slightly clever, but ultimately underwhelming. This leaves viewers confused. Is our protagonist questioning his decision to leave Earth? Then when 'other things' happen (I do not want to spoil anything) our hero immediately goes back to 'the mission'. It is this lack of focused message or tip-toeing that will leave some wondering why Nolan and his brother would write such a story. I know that such a decision is difficult but what is essentially important? You cannot put one foot on each side of your decision. Do we tie ourselves to this rock or examine the unknown as the Earth is in its final stages of supporting human life?

Outside of the muddled message and overall story, "Interstellar" does succeed on some levels. The dialogue was decent and the performances were all very strong. The special effects were great but not groundbreaking and the musical score from Hans Zimmer was surprisingly not epic in sound(repeating theme throughout entire movie). Cinematography was done by someone else because Wally Pfister was busy filming his own movie, the terribly reviewed "Transcendence". Pfister has worked on almost all of Nolan's previous films. The look of the film was not nearly as crisp as you'd expect or involving. The cinematography was more in the line of "Man of Steel" and recent Terrence Malick films. Unfocused (purposefully) at times to give it a more 'realistic' feel of a handheld camera, which just annoys me to no end. Also, there is a subplot involving a surprise cameo that does not progress the story in any way whatsoever, leaving you in the theater for an extra 25 mins. The total running time is 2 hours and 49 minutes.

"Interstellar" does make you think though. I'll give it that. I guess with an almost 3 hour run time, connecting the dots from the first 20 minutes of the film to the last ones did prove a little difficult. I appreciate the movie for what it is and that it even exists. It gets people talking and promotes the idea that exploration is absolutely necessary for our race to survive.

As a film, there are simply better provocative, space movies/TV series out there. See: "Sunshine", "Moon", "Battlestar Galactica"

Overall grade: C+

Why the movie "Trance" is Mesmerizing, Fulfilling, & Thought Provokingly Romantic

2014-08-26T16:33:00.000-05:00

Danny Boyle has made some strange, yet ultimately unforgettable movies over the course of his career thus far. Sure, some will cite "Trainspotting", "Slumdog Millionaire", "127 Hours" as great films and some may even recollect how great the sci/fi film, "Sunshine" was.

Boyle has a movie for everyone and that's what makes his films so special. My personal favorite is his under seen film, "Trance". Though it may not be for everyone, if there are those that enjoy stories about dreams, the idea of reality, hypnosis, or how susceptible the human mind is then I say "see this movie now".

"Trance" follows the story of an art auctioneer named Simon (played by James McAvoy) involved in a painting heist. Hit upon the head during the event, he must remember where he put the painting as dangerous criminals attempt to coerce the truth out of him. Enter hypnotist, Elizabeth Lamb (Rosario Dawson), who's hired to help figure out Simon and his memory loss.

Upon initial viewing, you are unsure where the story may be going and this is a good thing. The story and its characters' intentions are weaved in such a way that you are unsure who the true protagonist really is. Smart storytelling and excellent performances are other great reasons to see this original thriller. Let's not forget that James McAvoy is just killing it right now - with his praised upcoming "Filth" movie and, of course, the newer "X-Men" films as the pre-bald Professor X.

The music in the film is by Rick Smith, from the electronic band, Underworld. I honestly do not know how the film could have been nearly as effective without its score. It's layered, dream-like feel perfectly captures the 'soul' of the film and is also nice to play when not watching the movie and wanting to simply relax.

With its excellent visuals to boot, "Trance" really is something unique and dream-like. As the movie explores multiple ideas, it was the notion of how and why we remember what we do that is truly fascinating. Moreover, this notion is something that is romanticized in a couple of scenes in the film.

Overall Grade: A+

Why I haven't read "Wonder Woman" by Brian Azzarello until now is beyond Me!

2014-08-21T13:39:00.000-05:00

Look, I love Wonder Woman but I have always really seen her as a side character (see: Justice League). Now, I'm not saying I'm sexist by any mean but it's all about relate-ability, right? Wrong. A most definite wrong, especially in this case.

If you are familiar with Azzarello's work at all, you may note that his comics are 'grittier' than most and more graphically violent and sexual. With his work on Wonder Woman (starting from the New 52 reboot), it is all of this and more. Wonder Woman (I just love typing her name out every time) makes a shocking discovery about her origin and goes on a quest of sorts. This quest brings her into contact with many Greek gods, including Hermes, Hera, Apollo, Hades and Poseidon (to name a few). All of these characters play well (not really) with each other in their already rich, already known, backgrounds. It's the dynamic between each of the gods, including Wonder Woman and her team that makes this journey very interesting.

With that being said, Wonder Woman is a straight up bad ass and has completely changed how I felt about her. Pick up the books or trade paperbacks!

Overall Grade: B+

Why "The Neverending Story" film is Great

2014-08-12T14:43:00.000-05:00

It's been almost 30 years since the Wolfgang Petersen movie, "The Neverending Story" came out. The film is almost exactly as old as I am. Oh, and they (the movie studio) will release a 30 year anniversary Blu-Ray on October 7th!!! Yes, it has been remastered and includes recent commentary from the director.

Nostalgia has always been a reason to like movies like "The Neverending Story" but the thing that is different this time around -- upon recent viewing, it is STILL good. Amongst a decade of classic movies -- "Ghostbusters", "Gremlins", "48 Hours", "ET", "Amadeus"(if haven't seen, stop everything and watch now), "Die Hard", "Top Gun", and "Princess Bride", "The Neverending Story" stood out in the genre of Sci-Fi/Fantasy.

You see, the audience became the protagonist in the movie. As the reader of a special book, we react when Bastian(our protagonist) reacts. We are, essentially, more invested than usual. Of course, there are fantastical characters -- (see: flying dog, a rock biter, a guy wearing a top-hat whilst riding a speeding snail) and a totally 1980s soundtrack but the story's fate rests with us as we want Fantasia to survive.

Perhaps the most important message about the film is that the power of a book can change your world. It can bring you outside of yourself, it can help you see something within yourself, and it can help you dream. This is what occurred with Bastian and how bullies were after him daily, how he viewed education and how he felt distant from his family. This is not just a kids movie. This film stays with you but not for the reasons you'd come to expect, at least not from the surface. Grade: A+

Seems like I've been giving very positive reviews lately. Well, I'm sure that will change once I see some upcoming movie releases.

Until next time...

~Nitro

In Brightest Day, in Blackest Night....

2014-08-12T11:15:00.001-05:00

Geoff Johns is likely in my top 3 comic book writers of all time. He understands how to make characters sympathetic and really brings them down to earth with having them deal with the same issues we deal with everyday.

One day in February this year, I went to the comic book store and asked what was good. One of the clerks started talking about Geoff Johns' run on Green Lantern. He was a little baffled that I had not read them yet. I asked, "where should I start"? He said you need to start at the beginning with "Green Lantern: Rebirth"(2005), the first in the long running series by Johns. So, after the first volume, I was hooked. Hal Jordan is reborn and the back story of his disappearance explained. Not only did they establish Jordan as a relatable character, but they effectively showcased what makes being a Green Lantern so great. Look, this was a lot of reading and it was definitely worth it.

This of course led to the Blackest Night event in 2009 and went on until the Brightest Day in 2010 and closing out in 2011. The biggest take away for me was the idea that there were other colors of the emotional spectrum in the Green Lantern universe. They range from red (rage), orange (avarice), yellow (fear), green (will), blue (hope), indigo (compassion), violet (love), black (death), and white (life).

Johns really played with the idea of the different emotions in how they interact and how they react when put together. With this, we also get to see Green Lantern's greatest fear when he uses the yellow ring, his greatest hopes with the blue ring and so on... Even the extremely detailed artwork of Doug Mahnke makes this a treat. I would put Mahnke in my top 5 comic artists of all time.

It is with all of the rich storytelling and epic scale of the comics by Johns that spearheaded a movie adaptation. Of course, those of us that wasted money to see the film in 2011 were met with much disappointment by the lack of creativity, direction, writing, etc. that went into it. It may not be until 2017 until the public can sort of forget/forgive the movie treatment. That's what essentially makes it difficult to get non-readers of the particular comic to read the series -- because of their exposure strictly through the film.

I highly suggest that you stop by your local comic book shop and get "Green Lantern"(2005-2011) by Geoff Johns. If anything, just read "Green Lantern: Rebirth" and decide from there if you should continue reading. Grade: A+

I'm Back Baby & I'm Loving Every Moment of It !!!

2014-08-08T11:58:00.000-05:00

For reasons truly unknown I abandoned this blog over 2 and a half years ago. Perhaps it was that I just became too busy or found other outlets for my pop cultural release. In any case, I am back covering things that you should care about. Where do I even begin? I'm going to break things down into a simple format on a weekly basis -- Movies, TV shows, & Comic Books/Video Games.

MOVIES

Let's talk about Guardians of the Galaxy -- directed by James Gunn
James Gunn never really resonated with me. I found "Super" to be a half concocted, in your face take on the hypothetical, more realistic superhero. With that said, it's corky-ness and weird vibe of "Super" fits almost perfectly with "The Guardians of the Galaxy". Marvel is really killing it right now. Even the soundtrack of this movie works. Chris Pratt is going to be a huge star with this and the upcoming "Jurassic World" . All the talk of this movie is true. You just have to see it. Grade: A-

TV SHOWS

The Killing -- developed by Veena Sud and based of the Danish TV series, "The Crime"
I have never got around to this show until recently. Thanks Netflix Instant. With an eerie setting(kudos to cinematographer and the city of Seattle), this mystery drama is a slow brew of the 'whodunnit'. Keeping you on the edge of your seat with its episodic cliffhangers and slowly building its central characters, this show has a lot going for it. Granted, I am only on episode 6 of the 1st season. Let's just say it has my interest.

The Strain -- created by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
Obviously directed more to a male audience, this series, which is based of the novels by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan, is starting to heat up. If you love vampires, especially in a more realistic sense (alas viral outbreak), than you'll love this. The only gripe, at least with the beginning, was that the central characters were never aware of what the audience already knows. This has since changed. If you get a chance, check it out.

COMICS

Saga -- written by Brian K. Vaughan and illustrated by Fiona Staple (Image Comics)
If you call yourself a comic book nerd and haven't heard of this, then you need to punch yourself in the privates. This is like Star Wars but rated X, not just for the graphic sex but also the gore. The story follows two lovers from opposing alien forces that must protect their child from those that will do anything to erase their existence from being known. Filled with colorful characters, interesting dialogue and original artwork, this is sure to make any fan boy happy.

StarLight -- written by Mark Millar (Image Comics) and illustrated by Goran Parlov
This new, 6 issue miniseries follows an aging space hero on an adventure. Sounds run of the mill at first but what really makes this series interesting is the twist in the story. This hero is only known as a hero on an alien world, whereas on Earth he is made fun of and seen as crazy. His wife recently passed and he has sons that don't want to deal with him. With doubt about his own future in the universe, our protagonist gets a chance for one more big adventure 35 years after he saved the universe.

Thanks for reading. Next week I will cover more Movie news and the Geoff Johns Green Lantern and Justice Society of America run in comics. Until next week!!

~Nitro

"The Trip" is more than just Fine Dining.....

2011-12-12T10:18:00.000-06:00

Never has a film displayed both humor and drama as delicately as the film, The Trip (2010). The comedy/drama film follows two actors (Steven Coogan and Rob Brydon), who play fictionalized versions of themselves, as they embark on a trip through the English countryside. The film was actually released in the United Kingdom as a six-part series on BBC 2 (Screen 2011) and was edited for international release (Wikipedia 2011). The film, which is also a follow up to A Cock and Bull Story (2006), showcases many restaurants and landscapes of England in grandiose form, thanks to cinematographer Ben Smithard (IMDb 2011). The film holds a Tomatometer of 89 % (RT 2011) and an average score of 82/100 on Metacritic (Metacritic 2011) with most critics embracing the humor as well as the dynamics of friendship, even at a deeper, more emotional level. The film had a limited theater release in the US and is Unrated.

During the opening scene, Coogan has found out last minute that his girlfriend is unable to accompany him on a trip through Northern England. The trip, itself, requires Coogan and a guest to review a series of fine restaurants, as he was commissioned to do so by the magazine, The Observer. After being turned down by everyone else, he hilariously reasons with Brydon by stating, “I've, uh, asked other people but they're all too busy, so you know, do you wanna come”?

Through the hilarious dialogue, skewed philosophical perspectives, and pointless contests of who can impersonate Michael Caine or Sean Connery perfectly, we get a deeper understanding of how these two similarly talented actors both view life differently. It is with this that the film has an emotional core and even the limitations of friendship can be examined. Brydon is a very content man which contrasts with Coogan’s personality, which demands the attention of everyone around him except the very person that was willing to go on his trip. The film examines the dynamics of friendship through two very similar yet very different men.
The northern part of England is a cultural region in its own right. As the two travel the area, they are reminded of the dominate Christian religion as it has been since the early Middle Ages with monasteries like that seen in Bolton Abbey (Northern 2011). First on their culinary tour was The Inn at Whitewell. On their way there, Coogan plays music in the Range Rover to give their surroundings more meaning and emphasizes the need for an actual map but bases this on ‘nostalgia reasons’. Winding roads lead the two to the restaurant/lodge. The Inn(depicted below), which dates back to the 1300s, is in the forest of Bowland and is situated near Clitheroe, Lancashire (Inn 2011). The forest of Bowland is designated as an (AONB) Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (Forest 2011) since 1964. The AONB was created by the “Countryside Agency (now Natural England) on behalf of the United Kingdom government; the Countryside Council for Wales on behalf of the Welsh Government; or the Northern Ireland Environment Agency on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive”(AONB 2011). Furthermore, the purpose of the AONB is to “conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the landscape” for enjoyment with regard to those that live there (AONB 2011). It is in the forest of Bowland where Coogan and Brydon have their contest on who does a better Michael Caine impersonation.

Before heading off the next morning, Coogan makes a call to his girlfriend in Hollywood while in the frigid weather where he can barely obtain a cell signal. He calls to check up on her and the music overlaid by Michael Nyman adds depth to the scene which dictates the delicacy of their relationship. The girlfriend, Mischa, is trying to make a career in Hollywood but Coogan is more concerned with his wants and how she is doing without him. Knowing this, it becomes apparent that Coogan was desperate to go away, at least in some capacity, even if that means enduring Brydon’s impersonations.

Next on the itinerary the two head to L’Enclume (below), a restaurant in Cartmel Village, where they embellish and critique the food they are served though are not even close to being labeled experts in the culinary world as the trip was initially made on the basis of Coogan’s girlfriend attending as she’s the food aficionado. Coogan even expresses this upon tasting a dish with, “the consistency is a bit like snot, but it tastes great!” Though they compete often with one another, with much amusement, we get a sense that Coogan is annoyed with Brydon and we think this is just because he continues to do impersonations.

In Cumbria County, they visit Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s old home in Keswick, and William Wordsworth’s old residence in Dove Cottage in Grasmere. Afterwards, the two head to Holbeck Ghyll, a restaurant located in Windermere. The restaurant was once a hunting lodge in the late 19th century and holds a Michelin star (Holbeck 2011). This star is given from the Michelin Guide, which serves as an annual guidebook for restaurants, hotels, and tourism (Michelin 2011). As Brydon spouts out excerpts from a Coleridge book, you can tell that Coogan is enticed by the poet and philosopher’s perspective on life even so much as to later indulge in opium as Coleridge once did by smoking a joint at the same house where the famous poet wrote Dejection: An Ode (NY 2011).

Both Wordsworth and Coleridge are the founders of the Romantic Movement and the film nicely presents the parallel that is drawn from this to our culinary duo. Wordsworth’s and Coleridge’s joint publication, Lyrical Ballads, is known as the most famous for each author (Info Refuge 2011). This can be said of Coogan and Brydon in that they are best when together. “Despite any difference, the two poets were compatible because they were both preoccupied with imagination, and both [used] verbal reference in new ways” (Info Refuge 2011). Both poets had become very distinct and their perspectives on poetry differed as time went on. This, along with Coleridge’s eventual opium addiction, pushed the two men apart. Coleridge could be an analogy of Coogan in that he has an addiction to always wanting something more, to the point of never being content and Wordsworth can be Brydon in that he sees things more simply. Coleridge quoted, “my endeavors would be directed to persons and characters supernatural – Mr. Wordsworth, on the other hand, was…to give charm of novelty to things of everyday” (Biographia, Ch. Xiv 2011). This allegory signifies the relationship between Coogan and Brydon.

Our traveling duo next observed their surroundings in the Eden Valley, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and the Trough of Bowland. They stayed and ate at the Hipping Hall. The hall is a country house hotel on the border of Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire, near Kirkby Lonsdale (Hipping 2011). While there, Coogan gets his picture taken and later sleeps with the photographer after getting offered a job in Hollywood. While it is later explained that he and his girlfriend are taking a break, he doesn’t view the encounter as anything special yet continues to mule over whether or not to take the job in America.

Once awakened, the two take a trip to one of the most famous sites in England, the Malham Cove. The cove is a natural limestone formation near the village of Malham (Malham2011). The cove is a result of glaciation over thousands of years. Coogan explains, rather garrulously, how the structure formed and other facts of the site whereas an annoyed Brydon simply wants to just take the views in. The sheer size and rarity of the structure, seemingly etched into the landscape, draws you in as a viewer. Oddly enough, Coogan heads up the formation while Brydon stays behind only to find himself irritated by another passerby with the same facts that he annoyed Brydon with. Pictured below is Malham Cove.

Before making his way to his next destination, Coogan calls to console his son, who asks about the trip. During their conversation the son asks how his trip has been. Coogan mentions that things are good but Brydon is a “pain in the ass”. His son replies with curiosity, “how long have you known him”? To which Coogan had to think and then realized and stated at the same time, “eleven years”. Upon this realization, Brydon and Coogan venture to the beautiful sights of the monastery, The Bolton Abbey. It is at this location, which was built in 1154 (Bolton 2011), while viewing the gravestones and ancient architecture, that Brydon asks Coogan if he would hypothetically come to his funeral. As he responds ‘yes’, he gives Brydon insight as to how his speech at his funeral would occur. Though comical, Coogan is really stating his feelings for Brydon from a position of jealousy. Coogan is essentially talking about himself, wishing he could be more content and enjoy the simple things in life. There is even a point in the film where you can see Coogan trying to emulate one of Brydon’s impersonations without much success and then mocks the whole idea of him attempting an impersonation all together. The witty dialogue between the two friends is of course interesting to watch but, moreover, we wonder if Coogan will ever realize the bond he has with Brydon. This is the most vital factor when it comes to the immersion in the film other than the Northern England landscapes themselves.

As Coogan continues to mule over the idea of getting a job in America, they venture down to the Angel Inn in Hetton, North Yorkshire, to converse and examine how far Coogan would go to obtain what he wants in life. Brydon asks Coogan if he were to allow his child to have a temporary illness to obtain an Oscar for best actor to which Coogan pauses and replies, “what type of illness?” Though hilarious are his answers, you cannot help but recognize frustration and desperation in Coogan’s life.
The trip concludes and it is uncertain if the two will see each other again after their week discovering more than just the fine dining of England. As they arrive back in London, Brydon hugs Coogan, much to Coogan’s obvious discomfort, and they depart from each other. We see the very content and happy Brydon embrace his wife and child upon his return while Coogan goes home to a barely lit, cold looking loft overlooking the cityscape of London. Brydon’s wife accepts her husband without question, despite his often impersonations, whereas Coogan is left uncertain of what he wants in love and life. Coogan decides to not pursue a job in America but the reasoning for this is left open-ended. Of course he mentions that he has a kid and cannot commit to seven years in America, but after viewing a video on his phone of a time with his girlfriend there is a quiet longing that overtakes Coogan’s face. As to what this essentially means is left to the viewer.

The main theme of this picture lies at the limitations of friendship. When the two trade insults and differing outlooks on life, it is Coogan that seems unable to recognize how great they are as friends. They challenge each other but they also complement each other. What bothered Coogan of Brydon were not his impersonations but rather his outlook on life. How can he be so unaffected by life’s whimsical twists and turns? A deep rooted jealousy sits with Coogan. Even though he doesn’t agree with Brydon on many different things, there is still a yearning to be as blissful as him.

References

AONB. Area of Natural Beauty. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-30-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_of_Outstanding_Natural_Beauty

Biographia. Biographia Literaria. Chapter XIV. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://www.english.upenn.edu/~mgamer/Etexts/biographia.html

Bolton. Bolton Abbey. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolton_Abbey

Forest. Forest of Boland. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-30-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_of_Bowland

Hipping. Hipping Hall. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hipping_Hall

Holbeck. Holbeck Ghyll. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holbeck_Ghyll

IMdb. The Trip. Accessed 11-28-2011
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1740047/fullcredits#cast

Info Refuge. Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://www.inforefuge.com/compare-contrast-coleridge-wordsworth

Inn. Historic Hotels of Europe. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://www.historichotelsofeurope.com/en/hotel_1676_the-inn-at-whitewell.html

Malham. Malham Cove. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malham_Cove

Metacritic. The Trip. Accessed 11-28-2011
http://www.metacritic.com/movie/the-trip-1969/details

Michelin. Michelin Guide. Wikipedia. Accessed 11-29-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelin_Guide

NY. New York Times. Accessed 11-30-2011
http://movies.nytimes.com/2011/06/10/movies/the-trip-a-michael-winterbottom-comedy-review.html

RT. The Trip. Accessed 11-28-2011
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_trip_2011/

Screen Yorkshire. The Trip. Accessed 11-28-2011
http://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/filming/the-trip

Wikipedia. The Trip. Accessed 11-28-2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Trip_(2010_film)

I was a Movie Junkie this Weekend....

2011-11-14T11:47:00.001-06:00

Immortals: Terribly written and overly cliched. One of the most disappointing films of the year. I understand what the producers were trying to do with having a visual director and a 300-esque/Greek Mythology story line but it was horribly executed. Tarsem Singh(director) must have gotten paid a fat check to make this spine-less movie.
Overall Grade: D+

The Constant Gardener:
Great acting, writing, and directing all around. I know this isn't as recent as the above abomination of film, but I had to at least mini-review this. There is great immersion in the film and that is due to the atmospheric tone,the exotic locations, and the intriguing script that follows a man's journey to find out the truth to his wife's death.
Overall Grade: A-

Angel Heart:
This was shot in 1987 and starred Mickey Rourke and Robert Deniro. A detective is thrusted into a bizarre missing person's case and comes to find that death is all that surrounds him. A strange, yet provocative story that even has a Shyamalan Twist! Decent performances all around.
Overall Grade: B+

Pulling John:
This is a documentary about arm wrestling that examines an undefeated competitor around an event that is marked as a Super Bowl of Arm Wrestling. Very interesting and fun story that details the popular John Brzenk and his far reaching influences to newer arm wrestlers who all try to make a name for themselves.
Overall Grade: B+

"The Ides of March" -- Reviewed.

2011-11-01T15:21:00.002-05:00

It has been awhile since I’ve seen a political thriller. Heck, I don’t believe this even classifies as such. It is more a political drama. Enter Ryan Gosling’s staffer Steven Meyers. Meyers is an ambitious, passionate, and idealistic 30 year old who works for George Clooney’s presidential candidate, Governor Mike Morris.

As the story unfolds, we get a sense of who Meyers really is and when we get that we come to understand that he is more ambitious himself than passionate about the candidate he is attempting to put up as the potential President of the United States.

Meyers makes the mistake of divulging his meeting with an opposing staffer, Paul Giamatti’s character Tom Duffy, with his boss, Paul Zara, which played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman. Still following? Good. Of course once a secret is found out of Meyers and Molly Stearns' (Evan Rachel Wood) relationship, it complicate things further.

Ideologies are questioned and redefined as through the games of politics, integrity will be challenged and then lost. When this occurs, true motivations are brought to an ugly light and when we see Meyers’ true motivation we are surprisingly sympathetic because most of us would make the same choices as he did. We say ‘for the greater good’ but we end up doing ‘for the greater good of ourselves’.

This is a solid film with top notch acting and excellent screenwriting. The film has a Tomatometer of 85% with much of the critics praising the acting and tale of morality. The film is rated R for pervasive language.

Overall Grade: A

Batman #2 & Justice League #2 -- Reviewed.

2011-10-24T09:55:00.001-05:00

Batman #2
It keeps getting better as Snyder creates another charcter in the series, the city of Gotham. We care about the city and its relationship to Bruce Wayne and his family legacy. With this along with interesting dialogue and character development, we also get introduced to a new villain in an exciting way.
To sum it up: This is the best series so far from the relaunch.
Overall Grade: A+

Justice League #2
Try to think of this series as an all out action series. Does the Justice League really need character development amongst its popular characters? Yes, of course but not as much as a singular character series and what we do have is enough to actually 'get the league together' in this series that examines the actual formation of the popular team. Superman is actually the bada$$ here as Green Lantern, Batman, and Flash try to hold him off.
Really fun read.
Overall Grade: A-

Green Lantern #2 & Superboy #2 -- Reviewed.

2011-10-12T13:11:00.001-05:00

Green Lantern #2:
Another exciting, albeit short, issue where Hal Jordan is given another chance(well, sort of) from Sinestro of all people. Hal Jordan is really treated as the arrogant hero here just like he is in "Justice League #1". Yes, Hal Jordan is cool but I really fancy reading more about Kyle Rayner. To me, he is a more creative Green Lantern and when your power is what your mind can create through willpower, Kyle has it in the bag.
Overall Grade: A-

Superboy #2:
Now this is a good Superman title. Superboy is learning right and wrong from people he shouldn't be. His powers come into question a few times in the issue and makes you wonder how Superboy would fare in a fight with Superman. Yeah, Superman is far more experienced but with the advantages Superboy has, it'd be interesting. Anyway, the supposed villains in this are typical but as to who truly created Superboy remains a mystery. What will Superboy do with the knowledge of how he came to be? I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Overall Grade: A-

"The Avengers" Trailer Released!!!

2011-10-11T09:07:00.000-05:00

"The Princess Bride" Reunion Photo!!!

2011-10-10T14:36:00.002-05:00

Here's a reunion picture of the old gang from the beloved film classic, "The Princess Bride". Though very nostalgic, I'm still surprised how well this film holds today. Enjoy.

Animal Man #2, Action Comics #2, and Detective Comics #2 -- Reviewed.

2011-10-10T13:42:00.000-05:00

Animal Man #2:
Still ahead of the game is DC's riveting, trippy and exciting story that delves deeper into Animal Man's family and especially his daughter. Animal Man and his daughter go on a journey to a place where the 'connectedness' is finally seen within our world. The more and more this story plays out, the more and more I can see it as a film. Almost as good as the first issue.
Overall Grade: A

Action Comics #2:
I was worried that this storyline could suck but I gave it another chance and I'm decently happy that I did. Though not as good as Detective Comics or Batman, it still tells a rich story but foreshadows too much with John Henry Irons, John Corben, and Brainiac. Interesting dialogue move this story in a nice direction but Superman is 'still' fighting the same characters. Spokes people mentioned that this Superman is placed 10 years from the current time line. So, why have him deal with the same villains? We need a new threat. Superboy seems to be the best Supes title so far. We'll see come next week if Superboy holds up.
Overall Grade: B+

Detective Comics #2:
I'm really digging this and Batman right now. Demented and mysterious. More of Bruce Wayne is examined before Batman and Jim Gordon continue their investigation of the Dollmaker. Crazy ending. The artwork and writing are exceptional and make this a neat read.
Overall Grade: A

"Oldboy" & "I Saw the Devil" -- Reviewed.

2011-10-04T10:27:00.000-05:00

South Korean films are extremely violent, groundbreaking and brilliantly executed. This is at least my judgment after seeing two of their films.

"Oldboy"
This is one of the best films I've seen this year! Yeah, it hasn't come out this year but damnit this was just flipping fantastic. Vengeance is the name of the game as our protagonist is locked in a prison for 15 years and goes on a vengeance spree for 6 days. The human condition is explored through the propulsion of vengeance. Truly remarkable and unique. This is actually part of a Vengeance Trilogy by master director Park Chan-wook. Hollywood is already scrambling to produce an American remake with director Spike Lee and starring Josh Brolin and Christian Bale.
Overall Grade: A+

"I Saw the Devil"
Brutal story in which the depths of one man's vengeance is questioned outright as he starts to become the monster he outright despises. Great acting, action and yet another excellent examination into morality.
Overall Grade: A

Don't discard these films because they are foreign. I beg you.

Comic Book Reviews - DC's Relaunch - Week 4

2011-10-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile. I'm sorry. I was on vacation and didn't have time to get on here for my usual weekly cyber-therapy/geekdom experience.

Flash #1:
Thoroughly entertaining and an unusual, yet welcomed story line. We get to know Barry Allen throughout this entire issue. This was a well done introductory on the character and an interesting mystery captivates Barry as he moves to understand a crime that involves one of his friends from childhood.
Overall Grade: A-

Superman #1:
I just haven't been all that impressed with the Superman comics. Action Comics' next issue could prove me wrong but this was very 'decent'. Yes, Superman is my favorite character and will always be but this was just a dialogue heavy issue that looks to change audiences' perception of Metropolis, the Daily Planet, and Lois and Clark's relationship. Superman ends up saving the day in usual fashion. I'll likely stick around for a couple more issues to see what happens.
Overall Grade: B

I, Vampire #1:
This was better than I was hoping. It wasn't great but it was a good read, though it seemed short. Andrew(a vampire) looks to prevent an all out war on the humans which is being lead by his ex-lover. It'll be interesting to see what happens in the next issue.
Overall Grade: B+

Aquaman #1:
To be honest, this was the best comic of this week. It starts with the notion that Aquaman is a joke. The author is banking on this and it works. We also get to see how Aquaman came to be and how he views his powers. I actually care about Aquaman!!! This has never happened and I look forward to the next issue.
Overall Grade: A

"Animal Man #1" -- Reviewed

2011-09-19T10:49:00.000-05:00

Ah yes....Animal Man. Sounds ridiculous doesn't it? I didn't consider getting this comic once it came out but after hearing positive things I picked it up. Great read. Just great. Very strange, disturbing and neat. The powers that Animal Man uses are very peculiar even to the point of cheesy but it all just works. Our protagonist is grounded in a family life and now stands for something more than himself - an ideology. Animal Man, himself, is a very intersting character as he goes from being a superhero, to stuntman, to movie actor, and to a political statement. The end of this issue is trippy and has me geared up for what follows next month. If you're a comic book fan, don't pass this up. Truly great work here.
Overall Grade: A

"We Bought a Zoo" Trailer Released!

2011-09-16T13:51:00.001-05:00

Matt Damon continues to be Matt Damon(which is awesome) in this interesting looking trailer from the director of "Jerry Maguire", "Almost Famous", and one of my favorites, "Vanilla Sky". Thought provoking and utterly immersive are typical descriptions after viewing a Cameron Crowe film. The only blemish I see on Crowe's career is "Elizabethtown". I like the cast of this film but doesn't Damon look big? Was he supposed to gain weight or something for this role? He just doesn't look like Jason Bourne as we're all used to. The same thing goes for Damon in "Contagion".

Anyway, the movie trailer is actually really well done in my opinion. Enjoy.

"Green Lantern #1" & "Superboy #1" -- Reviewed

2011-09-14T13:36:00.000-05:00

I actually really enjoyed these two comics and look forward to reading "Animal Man #1" very soon. Good story telling all around for the most part.

"Green Lantern #1"
Continuing from where we left off previously, Sinestro has been chosen by a green lantern ring and Hal Jordan has been 'de-ringed' and sent back to Earth after having to kill one of the guardians to protect everyone in the universe. Hal is shown having trouble not being Green Lantern and adjusting to human every day life and Sinestro is shown checking in on his own planet and where he left the Yellow Corps. Creative, engaging writing drive this story and the very end will want you asking for more, much more. I can't wait til the next issue.
Overall Grade: A

"Superboy"
The story of Superboy picks up fast and we learn more and more about his abilities and his morality. This really reminded me of Flashpoint's "Project Superman" but on a much lighter, optimistic tone. The only complaint comes from the scientist that safeguards Superboy and her reasoning for doing so. Don't want to spoil too much. All in all, Superboy's potential is dubious but the journey of how he comes into being great will be fun to read and watch.
Overall Grade: A-

It's Official. "Point Break" remake will happen.

2011-09-13T09:09:00.001-05:00

Yes. Another one of your favorite films from the nostalgia bucket is getting an unjust remake. I know that some say these remakes ruin the originals and I don't think that's the case. It is not 'that hard' to ignore a remake for whatever reason(because it sucks or doesn't live up to the original). I do, however, think that Hollywood can still be blamed for its unoriginality.

Could this be good? Alcon Entertainment thinks so. I actually like the writer they signed for this -- Kurt Wimmer. Wimmer is known for writing "Salt", "Equilibrium", "Law Abiding Citizen" and the upcoming "Total Recall" remake. As long as Wimmer stays away from directing anything, I'll be happy. I know I mentioned "Equilibrium" because I enjoyed the writing but the direction? Not really. After Wimmer directed "Equilibrium", he followed his directing success with the HUGE hit "Ultraviolet". I'm obviously joking. "Ultraviolet" was a critical and commercial failure (with a RottenTomatoes rating at 9% and just barely making back its budget).

Ok, so if you look at Wimmer's writing record you can tell that he always imputs a 'twist' in all of his films. I'd expect this much with the "Point Break" remake. I hope they don't change too much. Hmmmm....I wonder if Gary Busey can reprise his role?

"Warrior" < "The Fighter"

2011-09-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

The movie trailers looked very predictable so I wasn't too interested in seeing this. This was the case until I saw RottenTomatoes' rating was extremely positive. So, I gave the film a shot and I was left pleasantly surprised. Yes, the film is predictable but it acknowledges that and executes the 'predictable' in grand fashion. Gavin O'Connor (director) is known for the inspirational film, "Miracle", and it looks like he wanted to follow suit but this time surrounding the phenomena of Mixed Martial Arts. Every one of the actors involved in this film, especially Tom Hardy and the aging Nick Nolte do a fantastic job. You actually care what happens to everyone in this film. The two brothers fight both in the cage and in their own personal lives. The father to the two brothers, Nolte's character, also fights to redeem himself from the raging alcoholic he was earlier in his life and actually be the father he never truly was to his two sons. This 'investment' that you make with the three main characters puts you at the edge of your seat for the majority of the film.

There were a few things that came across too cheesy. For example, one of the trainers uses the music of Beethoven to train his fighters. The idea of Beethoven to 'train' is way over done (you'll see what I mean). However, my main gripe with the film stems from the actual ending. It doesn't end realistically and leaves some things open. I'm not going to spoil it for any one that wants to see this. The fact that I was this bothered by the ending just goes to show how invested I was in seeing what actually happens at the end.

"The Fighter" is an all around better film but "Warrior" is a lot of fun to watch and would definitely be a fun movie to rent.

Overall Grade: B

"Highlander" News that doesn't suck....

2011-09-12T10:23:00.000-05:00

After Justin Lin was in discussions to direct the reboot of "Highlander" and after he had to drop due to his other commitments(two new 'Terminator' films), Juan Carlos Fresnadillo is now in discussions to take the directing chair. Fresnadillo directed "28 Weeks Later" which was actually pretty good and the upcoming "The Crow" remake. Though Fresnadillo has yet to truly prove himself as a director, I think there is hope that this reboot can be a fresh take on the always amazing premise of immortals wondering the earth offing each other by decapitation and receiving a Quickening.

Let me get back to Justin Lin. He's the director of the last two "Fast & Furious" films. Lin knows how to direct action but doesn't care about storytelling in the least. He sucks is basically what I'm trying to say. He's in the same family as Michael Bay. There's truly a difference between a movie with just special effects and action and a movie with an actual story where special effects and action serve only to compliment a movie.

This news shouldn't be held onto as talks of a reboot of "Highlander" has been going on for a few years now.

What I am scared about is one of the writers wrote "The Twilight Saga".

Please don't suck!!

DC Comics Relaunch Recap

2011-09-07T14:24:00.002-05:00

I'm really trying to get into DC's relaunch and so far I've been impressed. Granted, I'm not reading every new title because I have to balance my other interests and obligations with my day to day busy life. Graduate school can test me from time to time. Anyways,I'll just break down with a short review on the three comics I've read thus far.

Justice League of America #1:
This is not your ordinary JLA read but rather an introduction to characters and the eventual formation of the league. People may complain that the story mostly just involves an overly arrogant Green Lantern and a Batman that once again shows that he knows more than anyone else. The origin story of a troubled high school football student(Cyborg) serves as a subplot. Regular comic book fans will understand what will be the eventual villain as Green Lantern and Batman make head way on a mission that leads them to Superman at the end of the issue. Even though the dialogue may have been just decent, the potentials for this story are EPIC. Line this up with the fantastically detailed artwork and you have a pretty solid first issue.
Overall Grade: A-

Action Comics #1:
This examines a much younger Superman tackling smaller issues than the usual global threats he usually encounters. Not just the costume is new. Even where Superman/Clark Kent works is different (perhaps, just initially). This Superman is more forcibly idealistic and acting as more a leader than a follower of American values. Lex Luthor, yet again, plays a part in Action Comics. It is understandable that an introduction of characters is needed but I hope that in future issues Lex Luthor only has a minor supporting role. Everyone has been there and done that. Is it to appease new readers? Perhaps. I just hope Superman goes through a self discovery of how to actually be Superman. The first issue is kind of like the first episode of "Seinfeld". All of the characters are there but it isn't EPIC funny until they understand what works and what doesn't. It is crucial what comes next in Action Comics. A platform is set. This could be typical or legendary as the story arc comes to a close.
Overall Grade: B

Detective Comics #1:
I was more impressed with this than Action Comics and I'm a bona fide Superman fan! The artwork shines as Batman comes into contact with the Joker again but not is all as it seems. Great storytelling surround this comic and leaves you wanting more once the last page is read. I don't wanna spoil too much.
Overall Grade: A-

Is Don Draper from "Mad Men" morally reprehensible?

2011-09-06T11:16:00.001-05:00

I am almost finished with season 4 of "Mad Men" and couldn't help but become thoroughly intrigued by the show's main star. Don Draper is an extremely talented Ad Men serving as the Creative Genius behind an advertisting agency in the 1960s. He begins, in the show, as a married man with 2 kids and eventually has another yet he constantly cheats on his wife. You can see that he cares about the family he is a part of but much of his infidelity can be tied to his personal turmoil stemming from his past. Not to say that I agree with his infidelity but I do believe that it is not without reason.
Outside of the infidelity, Draper is actually an extremely morally just individual that does care about good, honest people. He's willing to protect the good in his life and has demonstrated this on numerous occasions.
In season 4(the latest season), Draper deals with his failed marriage and the effects his children have to endure. This is a testament to how children are affected, especially in the divorce prone generation we live in today. So, how does Draper deal with this? He embellishes in self destruction with alcohol and drugs. I understand this. In order to not feel you drink. It wasn't til Draper realized that his problems were still there and even worse as a result that he finally made a decision to change his ways. He began a journal as a sort of rehabilitation and started to swim to 'clear his head'.
Draper is so humanized and yes, he may have faults but he's trying to correct them. Draper was a product of his own environment - an environment that doesn't understand the true importance of introspection. This is still true today. It is ironic that a person can understand the wants of people(like Draper does) but couldn't, for awhile, understand himself. Is Draper morally reprehensible? Not hardly. Draper isn't perfect but who is? Like I said, his actions are due to broken ideas.
I'm not trying to preach nor am I stating we should all go through a ridiculous AA program. However, I believe we need to come to an awareness about ourselves and I found the subplot in a TV show(of all places) spoke to just that. I know I blog about all things film related, music and pop culture, but this has really helped me reflect about my own life. I do drink too much for lots of reasons and I'm tired of numbing myself. I need to address what's really an issue. I'll never accomplish what I want if I continue in this pattern. I need to be Nicholas 2.0 or like Superman post junkyard fight scene in Superman III.

Sorry if I got all personal on ya. Sometimes I think blogging is therapeutic in its own right.

T*H*E* S*P*L*I*T*S*