WE SEE MOVIES

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I'm super excited to see Dan Radcliffe in his first post-HP role and in a thriller, at that!

CAROLINE: I knew you'd be dying for this one. I'd certainly be interested in seeing it with you. It has a cool period pieceness to it.

RYAN: And I think it looks like it has a vibe circa The Others.

CAROLINE: Oh that movie was cree-pee! Here's the trailer for The Woman in Black:

RYAN: Also coming up this weekend is another scary pic - The Innkeepers.

CAROLINE: Yeah, I can't say I counting the minutes for this one.

RYAN: Harry Potter or not, I love a good haunting so I'm actually looking forward to this. I just hope it's actually a bit scary. I mean if The Grey could manage it, I hope a legitimate scary movie can too.

CAROLINE: The trailer certainly looks it. Check it out:

RYAN: The new critically acclaimed film from from writer/director Madonna is also opening wider - W.E.

CAROLINE: Yeah that's right - Madonna in the director's seat. This is the movie for which she won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song, much to Elton John's chagrin.

RYAN: We all know she's not an actress but this does look like a gorgeous, lush film. And she has style; so I think she might be able to be the kind of director Tom Ford was with A Single Man.

CAROLINE: Oh she wishes! But there is some good buzz around this film. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: And then there is Chronicle. It looks all Blair Witchy.

RYAN: Completely. Minus Madonna, it's the weekend of the creepy movie. I'm interested in this but not, like, feeling it's a must see based on this trailer.

CAROLINE: The kids mostly seem really obnoxious.

RYAN: It does sort of look like a lame excuse of a story to use some cool effects.. See what I mean:

2012 SAG Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: You know, it's such a delightful mix of high and low each year at the SAG Awards... the actors are all kinds of gawky but they clean up so nicely.

CAROLINE: And it's so self-congratulatory you can't help but love how seriously they all take themselves and their work.

RYAN: Well we live for their movies, so it all comes out in the wash. And while I appreciate the whole dream-come-true aspect, I do see what you're saying. But as far as the winners go, there were a couple lil surprises.

CAROLINE: There were also some surprises in the fashion too.

RYAN: You mean Viola's voluptuous twins?

CAROLINE: Seriously. Could her gown have been any more ill fitting?

RYAN: I thought Glenn Close's arms looked like they were from another planet.

CAROLINE: [laughs] And Meryl too. Thank God she's so revered as an actor because she certainly can never make the best dressed list. What was with the weightlifting belt?

RYAN: Yeah, no one really hit a fashion high note last night.

CAROLINE: I expected George Clooney to win best actor and the cast of The Artist to win over The Help.

RYAN: Right, those choices were the more predictable ones. But it's always nice to see the unexpected take a trophy. And Jean Dujardin is so friggin cute!

CAROLINE: He is expressive. If only he could learn English... then we'd really be on to something.

RYAN: I'd like to see him do something opposite Marion Cotillard.

CAROLINE: That should be a given.

RYAN: Let's list the winners for the movie categories. And I'd like to take special notice of a category that was not covered during the broadcast but awarded Harry Potter - Stunt Ensemble.

CAROLINE: Yeah, no one really knows which actors that covers... the stuntmen I suppose. Here are the winners:

Best Cast, Motion Picture The Help

Best Actress, Motion Picture Viola Davis, The Help

Best Actor, Motion Picture Jean Dujardin, The Artist

Best Supporting Actress, Motion Picture Octavia Spencer, The Help

Best Supporting Actor, Motion Picture Christopher Plummer, Beginners

Stunt Ensemble, Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

THE GREY

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I didn't expect to say this at all but The Grey was a fun movie to see.

CAROLINE: I'd normally be shocked but you're not in the minority. It's getting decently reviewed almost across the board. Tell me about it.

RYAN: Well I have to immediately point out that it's entirely bloody and grotesque - to the point where I had to look away several times and could have almost puked once.

CAROLINE: [laughs] Really?

RYAN: Yes! It's so gory I was dismayed! But it's also kinda fun that way. I recommend seeing it with someone you don't mind grabbing onto. I dragged my pal Carrie to the screening and we were practically jumping into each others' laps during scenes.

CAROLINE: I'm sure I'd have bruised your knee had I seen this with you.

RYAN: It's actually scarier in parts than some horror films I've seen. You actually jump a few times and it's good suspense. There's also some heart to it. And it's a little spiritual too.

CAROLINE: Whoa, you're throwing a whole lot in there.

RYAN: Well there are layers. I mean, look, we like Liam Neeson. And while this isn't Taken, it's still a freaky, fun movie. He's especially good at the beginning of the film. He has a scene where he's mourning the loss of his lover and I couldn't help but think of Natasha Richardson.

CAROLINE: Oh that's sad. How could you not think about that?

RYAN: Demot Mulroney is also in this but almost unrecognizable because of his beard, glasses and hat. And I also like actor Dallas Roberts. He's not a famous name but I remembered liking him in movies like 3:10 to Yuma and others.

CAROLINE: I like Dermot. He's not in much lately though.

RYAN: The wolves in this movie are really incredible and there's no monster or werewolf component but they're still very super-creepy.

CAROLINE: Yeah I wouldn't want to come up against one in the wild. That's for sure.

RYAN: It might be a case of having very low expectations, and this is by no means an award-worthy movie, at a time when we're obviously recommending seeing as many nominated films as possible; but, this movie was just a good, scary, fun romp. I challenge you to eat popcorn during this. It's so gross. But at the end, all the excitement made me feel like I got my cardio in for the day.

-- RATING --

ALBERT NOBBS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:12:00 +0000

CAROLINE: I was eagerly anticipating Albert Nobbs after hearing about what a labor of love it was for Glenn Close to get it made. It came out in limited release last year and is now going wide. It's kind of a strange little movie.

RYAN: I don't think it's strange. It's not what I expected, thank goodness, because I assumed it would be quiet and boring. But I didn't find it strange. I thought it was dramatic and heartbreaking.

CAROLINE: I hear you, it just surprised me in its bleakness. But it's no shock Glenn got nominated for an Oscar - it must have been an incredibly challenging role. And the makeup! Did she really look like a dude to you? I couldn't decide.

RYAN: Oh 100 percent! If we didn't know her, we'd totally just see man. Same with her fellow Oscar nominee Janet McTeer, in the supporting category.

CAROLINE: She was very good, though I wasn't as blown away by her performance as I expected to be. I'd probably read too much about the movie before I saw it.

RYAN: I'm over Mia Wasikowska. She's just bland to me now.

CAROLINE: Girlfriend needs to quit it with the period pieces lately. I'm ready for something different from her. And what was up with Jonathan Rhys Meyers having the teeniest role? He's in the movie for approximately 2 minutes.

RYAN: That was tres random. I loved the costumes and sets in this movie. It really makes you feel like you're back in this time period, and then especially since the story is so "of the time."

CAROLINE: Yes, it captured the era perfectly. It's very Gosford Park and Upstairs, Downstairs meets Just One of the Guys and Tootsie. Especially that scene when Janet McTeer reveals her boobies. Hello - that was straight out of Just One of the Guys. For you young 'uns, that's an awesome '80s movie you should rent.

RYAN: It's interesting to see this film as a feminist, or equal rights advocate. It's amazing how far we've come and yet how far we've yet to go.

CAROLINE: It's definitely a thought provoking movie. Can you imagine if your only means of survival was to pretend to be a man so you could get work? Glenn really captures the loneliness and desperation of the character.

RYAN: I like how unpredictable the movie is. There were actually some moments that caught me off guard.

CAROLINE: OMG totally. But I didn't love the end; it really surprised me, and not in a good way. But up until then, I really enjoyed this movie. It's a powerful film, definitely for the artsier set. But hello, Aaron Johnson, the hottie from Kick-Ass! Loved seeing him in this, especially since I didn't know he was in it. That was a pleasant surprise.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: This movie really surprised me. It's much more entertaining than I thought it would be. It's an engaging, dramatic story, award-worthy performances and well directed. I could easily sit through it again. It isn't for everyone, but if you like period pieces and want to see the two Oscar nominated performances, it's very easily watchable.

CAROLINE: Yes, for a good chunk of the movie, I was thinking, "Wow this is one of the best movies I've seen this year." But then the ending threw me for a loop. I don't think I'd put in my top 10 for 2011, but it's incredibly well made and acted and seems very authentic to its time period. I was impressed. But it's kind of a downer in some ways. Not for everyone, as you said; but if you're into seeing all the nominated movies, you won't want to miss this.

-- RATING --

2012 Oscars - And the Nominees Are...

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:15:00 +0000

CAROLINE: Oh, what a beautiful mornin'! The Oscar nominations are finally here!

RYAN: 'Tis a momentous occasion for us each year and this round is as exciting as I ever remember!

CAROLINE: I set my DVR, as I do every year, for the occasion, and frantically scrawled down the names of the nominees and gasped with all the surprises there were. Jennifer Lawrence, star of the upcoming Hunger Games, announced at 8:30am. She was nominated last year for Winter's Bone and she's looking great.

RYAN: She can read, yes. But honey, let's cut to the chase! There are some real shocks and upsets this year, which makes it all the more thrilling.

CAROLINE: Completely! Starting with Best Picture:

Best Picture
The Artist
The Descendants
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
The Help
Hugo
Midnight in Paris
Moneyball
The Tree of Life
War Horse

RYAN: Well, at least we've seen them all. Let us note there are 9 of potentially 5 to 10 nominated and I think the shocker is Moneyball.

CAROLINE: I don't think so - it was nominated for both a GG and Critics' Choice Award. I was, however, surprised and pleased to see Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close on the list.

RYAN: Me too! In the Best Actress race, I can't believe, but am so happy, Rooney Mara is there! I wish Dragon Tattoo received even more nominations but this one is awesome.

Best Actress
Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs
Viola Davis, The Help
Rooney Mara, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Meryl Streep, The Iron Lady
Michelle Williams, My Week With Marilyn

CAROLINE: It was pretty shocking to me that Tilda Swinton didn't get nominated. I thought for sure Rooney was going to get snubbed, but I totally agree with the nomination. She was amazing!! Tilda was too though; it was a tough competition for the ladies this year.

RYAN: Best Actor sees the upset that Leo DiCaprio isn't nominated for J. Edgar. And I've heard zero buzz about this Demián Bichir.

CAROLINE: I'd read an article about him saying he might get nominated, but it was definitely a surprise to me. Leo must be bummed. Though now it definitely takes the pressure off me to watch J. Edgar, which I haven't been that psyched about doing.

Best Actor
Demián Bichir, A Better Life
George Clooney, The Descendants
Jean Dujardin, The Artist
Gary Oldman, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Brad Pitt, Moneyball

RYAN: I'm surprised by the Gary Oldman nomination too. Love him, but that movie was not all that.

CAROLINE: Yeah, that nom came from left field. But LBH, that movie is based on an old spy novel and most people in the Academy are 60+ so they're not exactly jibing with the average American moviegoer.

RYAN: Then in Supporting Actor, no Albert Brooks, but there is Jonah Hill. Interesting.

Best Supporting Actor
Kenneth Branagh, My Week With Marilyn
Jonah Hill, Moneyball
Nick Nolte, Warrior
Christopher Plummer, Beginners
Max Von Sydow, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

CAROLINE: Even more interesting - hello, Nick Nolte?

RYAN: I am glad Max Von Sydow from Extremely Loud is nominated. Viola could have been as well in the Supporting Actress category for that film as well; but her Best Actress nod will have to suffice.

CAROLINE: No huge shocks for Best Supporting Actress other than Melissa McCarthy. She was kind of on the verge of a nod in my eyes, and I'm surprised the über-stodgy Academy picked her. What a year she's having! Sadly, there's nowhere to go but down.

Best Supporting Actress
Bérénice Bejo, The Artist
Jessica Chastain, The Help
Melissa McCarthy, Bridesmaids
Janet McTeer, Albert Nobbs
Octavia Spencer, The Help

RYAN: In other categories, the final Harry Potter only got three noms - for Art Direction, Makeup and Effects. And there are only two songs nominated in the Best Song category. What the Elle Fanning is that all about?

CAROLINE: Madonna's Golden Globe winning tune from W.E. was deemed ineligible. Elton John and David Furnish must be thrilled.

RYAN: That blows. Here are the rest of this year's nominees:

Best Director
Michel Hazanavicius, The Artist
Alexander Payne, The Descendants
Martin Scorsese, Hugo
Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris
Terrence Malick, The Tree of Life

Best Original Screenplay
Michel Hazanavicius, The Artist
Annie Mumolo & Kristen Wiig, Bridesmaids
J.C. Chandor, Margin Call
Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris
Asghar Farhadi, A Separation

Best Adapted Screenplay
Alexander Payne, Jim Rash & Nat Faxon, The Descendants
John Logan, Hugo
George Clooney, Grant Heslov & Beau Willimon, The Ides of March
Aaron Sorkin & Steven Zaillian, Moneyball
Peter Straughan & Bridget O’Connor, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Best Animated Film
A Cat in Paris
Chico & Rita
Kung Fu Panda 2
Puss in Boots
Rango

Best Foreign Language Film
Bullhead (Belgium)
Monsieur Lazhar (Canada)
A Separation (Iran)
Footnote (Israel)
In Darkness (Poland)

Art Direction
The Artist
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
Hugo
War Horse

Costume Design
Anonymous
The Artist
Hugo
Jane Eyre
W.E.

Documentary Feature
Hell and Back Again
If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front
Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory
Pina
Undefeated

Documentary Short
The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement
God Is the Bigger Elvis
Incident in New Baghdad
Saving Face
The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom

Film Editing
The Artist, Anne-Sophie Bion and Michel Hazanavicius
The Descendants, Kevin Tent
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall
Hugo, Thelma Schoonmaker
Moneyball, Christopher Tellefsen

Makeup
Albert Nobbs, Martial Corneville, Lynn Johnston and Matthew W. Mungle
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, Edouard F. Henriques, Gregory Funk and Yolanda Toussieng
The Iron Lady, Mark Coulier and J. Roy Helland

Music (Original Score)
The Adventures of Tintin, John Williams
The Artist, Ludovic Bource
Hugo, Howard Shore
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Alberto Iglesias
War Horse, John Williams

Music (Original Song)
“Man or Muppet” from The Muppets, Bret McKenzie
“Real in Rio” from Rio, Sergio Mendes, Carlinhos Brown and Siedah Garrett

Short Film (Animated)
Dimanche/Sunday
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore
La Luna
A Morning Stroll
Wild Life

Short Film (Live Action)
Pentecost
Raju
The Shore
Time Freak
Tuba Atlantic

Sound Editing
Drive
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Hugo
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
War Horse

Sound Mixing
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Hugo
Monyeball
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
War Horse

Visual Effects
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
Hugo
Real Steel
Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Transformers: Dark of the Moon

CAROLINE: Get ready for the show! The Oscars are on Sunday, February 26th on ABC.

RYAN: I'm ready for your Rice Krispies treats!!

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Liam Neeson is back in action with The Grey and it's lookin' like it could be suspenseful... and cold.

CAROLINE: Yeah, I feel like I'd need to wear a warm sweater to see this movie. I love Liam in an action movie lately, but what is up with the premise of this one... rabid wolves or something? I almost thought it was a joke when I first saw the trailer.

RYAN: It does make me wanna go on a skiing trip this winter. But I'm thinking somewhere more like Denver in a wolf-free zone.

CAROLINE: This movie just seems like a real stretch. "How do we make an action movie more exciting? I know... wolves!" Looks lame to me. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Our next flick stars a gal I know you love - Katherine Heigl.

CAROLINE: I love Izzie! And I must admit her new movie One For the Money, which is based on a popular book, looks cute if not great.

RYAN: Well, she's certainly continuing to make movies, which is more than many actors who leave successful TV shows can say. But as yet, they're not very good movies.

CAROLINE: That's true. And since this one is sadly not screening for critics and coming out in January, I'm not holding my breath for a winner.

RYAN: I don't really buy her with a gun but she's cute as a brunette. Here's the trailer:

EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Director Stephen Daldry, the man who brought us Kate Winslet in The Reader, Nicole Kidman in The Hours and Billy Elliot, is now serving us this 9/11 weeper, thank you very much, Stephen.

CAROLINE: It's based on a book I never read, and what a weeper indeed. It's almost one of those movies you wonder if you can or should sit through, like United 93.

RYAN: It stars Tom Hanks, Sandy Bullock and Viloa Davis but all in supporting roles to this young'un Thomas Horn, who recently won best young actor at the Critics' Choice Movie Awards, and I'm happy to say I voted for him. He's Extremely good and Incredibly talented.

CAROLINE: Nice one. Honestly, his precociousness annoyed the crap out of me for the first hour of the movie, but then I had a total turn-around after this one incredibly well-edited scene. He's quite amazing.

RYAN: He's very natural for having very little prior experience and also going up against major movie stars.

CAROLINE: Honey, he's got zero experience; they discovered after he was on Kids' Week at Jeopardy, so he's not even an actor at all. He really impressed me, especially given his background. I also loved Jeffrey Wright, who has a small role as Viola's husband.

RYAN: He's great. That's one thing this director always gets right - the cast. And he handles intense emotion so deftly. We were both in NYC, working together, on 9/11, and we have our own memories which make revisiting it difficult. But the story in this film is truly engaging and beautiful.

CAROLINE: Watching a movie about 9/11 is never fun, and I cried during this one several times. I'm glad I saw it though; I always love Stephen Daldry's films as a rule.

RYAN: The relationship between the boy and the old man is very interesting. And I liked the way the boy navigated the city and how you kind of put together what's happening not only with him but with the people around him.

CAROLINE: It's a very emotional movie. It really explores lots of different parts of NYC too. We always love a movie that's based in NYC.

RYAN: And the city looks very real in this. It's not shot to glamorize it the way, say, New Year's Eve did.

CAROLINE: Please, I didn't even see that movie and I know there's no comparison.

RYAN: I wish there had been more with Tom Hanks. He's so good. And I was also impressed by Sandy B. She has some very difficult scenes and she looks good yet bad all at the same time in a very appropriate way.

CAROLINE: I know, right? She hasn't looked this ugly in a movie in a while, but it worked for the role. And I loved Tom Hanks's relationship with his son. Their scenes were so sweet, even though the boy is slightly Aspergery.

RYAN: It was a little slow moving at times but really when it all wrapped up, I found it very satisfying, like bittersweet satisfying.

CAROLINE: I'm with you. I was a little afraid to see this movie but I think it was a good thing. You just have to know what you're getting into with the 9/11 stuff.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

RYAN: You have to be in the mood for a sad film, but this one certainly has an uplifting message overall. And it's a brilliantly articulated story with moving performances - definitely worth seeing for it's awards-buzz.

CAROLINE: This movie was completely looked over by the Golden Globes, so it'll be interesting to see what happens with the Oscar nominations, which are announced tomorrow BTW. It's a very well made film, beautifully shot and scored, with great performances. It's hard to recommend it without reservation because of the heavy topic, but if you're inclined, you really should see it. You won't be disappointed.

-- RATING --

Box Office Results

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 20:00:00 +0000

1. "Underworld Awakening," $25.4 million ($13.4 million international).

2. "Red Tails," $19.1 million.

3. "Contraband," $12.2 million.

4. "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," $10.5 million.

5. "Haywire," $9 million.

6. "Beauty and the Beast (3-D)," $8.6 million.

7. "Joyful Noise," $6.1 million.

8. "Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol," $5.5 million. ($9.4 million international).

9. "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows," $4.8 million. ($18.1 million international).

10. "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo," $3.75 million ($15.7 international).

RYAN: It just goes to show you even when a movie doesn't screen for critics, it can still open #1.

CAROLINE: Well it's not a huge opening but box office has been down recently and then spiked this weekend. And it was enough for the 4th installment in this franchise to edge out the competition.

RYAN: I would have attended a screening. And this one is in 3D, so that adds to the price.

CAROLINE: Yeah I wish that was all taken into account, and inflation, etc...

RYAN: Well it's certainly good news for Kate Beckinsale who returns to Underworld after bailing on the last one.

CAROLINE: Right but you said you didn't miss her in the third?

RYAN: Not in the least.

CAROLINE: I'm not a huge fan of hers anyway.

RYAN: Red Tails did better than expected. Produced by George Lucas, it didn't pique my interest, but I'm not into the war genre.

CAROLINE: And then there's the star power behind Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, but one has to be in the mood for a sad movie.

HAYWIRE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: When you hear Steven Soderbergh has a new movie out, you wonder, "Why on earth is it coming out in January? He's Steven Soderbergh, an Oscar-winning writer/director, is he not?" And then you see Haywire, and your questions are answered.

RYAN: It's sad but true. I'm not the biggest fan but I certainly had higher expectations, especially since the cast features several actors I like.

CAROLINE: Here's the thing - this movie pretty much exists solely to show off the fighting prowess of Gina Carano, former American Gladiator. And she's very good in the fight scenes. Her acting? Not so much.

RYAN: She's g'dawful! It's like she's just reading her lines, like she just learned them slightly before shooting each scene. And then to pair her up against my fave actor o' the world - shameful.

CAROLINE: I couldn't deal with how she over-enuciated every word. I applaud her diction but it didn't sound very natural.

RYAN: And if she was just reading, she's not even very good at that.

CAROLINE: The movie co-stars a series of hotties - Channing Tatum, Michael Fassbender, a very bearded Antonio Banderas and your all-time fave, Ewan McGregor.

RYAN: He makes me so happy. He's very good in this except for one shot at the end where I'd like to blame the editing and not m'Ewan.

CAROLINE: I actually found the movie a little confusing in parts. Luckily they spell everything out for you in the end. But basically, I was just waiting for another cool fight scene to come because all the in-between stuff was dullsville.

RYAN: I was totally bored. It felt like it was 3 hours long, not 90 minutes. And the soundtrack was all 70s porn music or as if they said to someone, we want the score to ound like a James Bond movie but we can't pay you anything... see what you come up with.

CAROLINE: I will say the fighting looked incredibly real. I was like, "Wow, is she actually beating that dude up?" Whoever helped with the stage combat did a great job.

RYAN: Her fight scene with Fassbender is the best in the film and I liked that moment. But honestly, for the violence, I could do without all the waiting and lethargy between the action. Oh - and there's good ole Bill Paxton here as well.

CAROLINE: Rumor has it that Steven Soderbergh is planning on retiring next year because he feels he's reached his limit artistically.

RYAN: He'll retire just like Cher has retired from performing live.

CAROLINE: Probably. In the meantime, he can definitely retire from making movies like this please.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: This movie isn't really worth your time. The plot is cliché and silly and it's all been done a million times before. I did enjoy the fight and chase scenes and actually gasped out loud a couple of times. I guess if you're a big Gina Carano fan, as my husband's best friend is, this movie will be worth your time; other than that, it's not.

RYAN: I literally thought to myself, "you're kidding me" during much of this film. It's actually lame. The story is thin and the score absolutely ruins it. I appreciate the fact everything comes together at the end but it still didn't justify this kind of a movie. And there's a moment of completely random animal violence.

-- RATING --

CORIOLANUS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I'm so over this movie before even beginning to talk about it.

CAROLINE: Oh no. Why's that?

RYAN: Well for starters, there are a lot of war scenes. And I hate war as a genre and this is very violent and bloody; and then there's the Shakespeare element.

CAROLINE: But we can handle Shakespeare.

RYAN: It's true. I can even love it but I don't have the familiarity with this story the way we do with Romeo, Midsummer Night's Dream, etc...

CAROLINE: That makes sense. I didn't get the chance to see this.

RYAN: Honey, please don't. It's, like, annoying. I could barely pay attention to it.

CAROLINE: Oh gawd, it sounds heinous.

RYAN: I appreciate the production value. It's a decent production and the cast, well, I like them but they were not entirely watchable in this. I used to think I could watch my favorite actors in anything but now I have to reconsider that notion.

CAROLINE: Wow. Okay. So it's Ralph Fiennes, Gerard Butler, Jessica Chastain, and Vanessa Redgrave, anyone else?

RYAN: That's really it for the recognizable folk. It's mostly Ralph's film.

CAROLINE: Well I certainly don't think I'm going to be seeing this one.

RYAN: It's absolutely one of those movies where you're like, "I wish I could get that time back." I'm sure there's someone out there who this may appeal to, whether it's the diehard Shakespeare fan or just the intent on conflict/war buff, but it's probably the last thing I would ever wanna sit through again. Painful.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Yet another new Underworld movie, the 4th in the franchise, and this time the Kate McBeckinsale is back! I actually really liked the third one which she wasn't in.

CAROLINE: I haven't seen any of these movies and I don't think you could pay me to.

RYAN: I'm not a ginormous fan but it is a pretty decent action/thriller franchise and certainly an alternative vampire/werewolf from the likes of Twilight.

CAROLINE: See, I think I prefer my supernatural with a twist of romance, thank you very much.

RYAN: I am kinda curious to see this one since I did enjoy the last one but it's not screening for critics. Here's the trailer:

CAROLINE: Next is a movie you should be very excited about since it costars your Hollywood husband, Ewan McGregor.

RYAN: I think this looks good. It also stars "it-guy" Michael Fassbender, Antonio Banderas, Channing Tatum... it's a good cast with a random January release date.

CAROLINE: I think it looks kinda cool, almost reminds me a bit of TV's Alias.

RYAN: Oh, the times! Yeah it looks a little violent but has a kickass girl role too. It should be exciting. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Next is Coriolanus and it's Shakespeare.

CAROLINE: It stars Gerard Butler and Ralph Fiennes and it's a modernized version of Shakespeare like Leo DiCaprio's Romeo + Juliet was.

RYAN: I love the stars and can get jiggy with Shakespeare but this looks like such a war movie I'm not that into it. But I love Jessica Chastain so I'll see it either way.

CAROLINE: She's become Hollywood's hardest working actor. Check out the trailer:

Red Carpet Video - 2012 Critics' Choice Movie Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: You looked simply gorgeous on the red carpet at the CCMAs this year!

RYAN: Thanks so much! I thought of you when picking out my tie - it's your favorite color.

CAROLINE: I love it! Thanks, honey. I would have really loved to join you but am glad your cousin Leah was able to step in.

RYAN: I wish you had been there! We met and mingled with so many cool and wonderful people, not to mention all the hobnobbing with celebrities on the red carpet, inside the show and at the after party.

CAROLINE: It sounds like quite a night!

RYAN: I'm already looking forward to next year! Here's the video from the RC:

Live Review - 2012 Golden Globe Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I had the time of m'life at the CCMAs but LBH, the The Golden Globes are even more fun because of 1) Ricky Gervais, 2) the glam is amped up quite a bit and 3) you make rice krispies treats!

CAROLINE: [laughs] Thanks. And the show is already beyond. I'm dying over the fashion tonight!

RYAN: And while they give awards to both TV and film, we really only care about le movies.

CAROLINE: The Artist won the first movie award for Best Score and then Madge took it for best song from her movie W.E.!

RYAN: I love her song Masterpiece and I was so thrillified for her all the more since Elton John told Carson Daly on the red carpet during the preshow that she doesn't stand an effing chance. I loved the cutaway to him. That's some insta-karma!

CAROLINE: Best animated film to The Adventures of Tintin. You saw it but I didn't.

RYAN: I saw it twice and it really deserves. It's so visually stunning. And speaking of visually stunning, my pick for best dressed? Angie Jolie.

CAROLINE: She looks great. And I love Charlize again! She just hits it every single time.

RYAN: Woody Allen wins for best screenplay for Midnight in Paris. He won the CCMA too and he's not even around to accept it.

CAROLINE: How fun were Felicity Huffman and Bill Macy?! What a cute moment as presenters!

RYAN: A Separation wins for Foreign Language film... from Iran. I love Madonna's dress too and this one also won the CCMA.

CAROLINE: Octavia Spencer takes Best Supporting Actress for The Help. That movie is the gift that keeps on giving.

RYAN: It really is a great movie. Let's see if Viola follows suit. Meanwhilst, I'm loving all the cutaways in the audience of everyone. Nikki Kidman looks better sitting down tonight, however, than standing up.

CAROLINE: I couldn't agree more.

RYAN: And I really think that everyone would have more time for their acceptance speeches if they didn't take so long to get up to the stage. The layout this year is horrendous!

CAROLINE: Whoa! Is this kind of an upset? Marty Scorsese winning Best Director for Hugo!

RYAN: I'm a little floored! It's certainly deserved and although The Artist was the one to beat, he just did it.

CAROLINE: I can't believe I'm even going to say this but I don't know what happened to Melanie Griffith. She actually looks human and pretty.

RYAN: And congrats to Jean Dujardin from The Artist for winning Best Actor - Comedy or Musical. He's so good lookin.

CAROLINE: And for the Best Actress - Drama it's Meryl Streep for The Iron Lady. And nice reaction, Meryl, like you're every surprised.

RYAN: I kinda wanted to see Rooney win to hear her talk and check her out. But I love how real Meryl's acceptance speech was. And for Best Picture - Comedy or Musical it's The Artist.

CAROLINE: It's crazy how they separate genres. It'll probably win the Oscar too but now we get to see who wins for the drama category.

RYAN: The Oscar noms aren't out yet and although George Clooney won Best Actor tonight for The Descendants and he won at the CCMAs, sometimes the tide turns a bit so you never really know who wins at the Oscars. Between him and Jean from The Artist, who knows?

CAROLINE: I really loved both performances. It's ultimately anyone's game.

RYAN: What?!? This is crazy. The awards are all over the place this year! The Descendants wins Best Picture - Drama. I thought it would be Hugo, since Scorsese won. Personally I voted for War Horse but it really didn't get any love.

CAROLINE: It's an honor just being nominated. It was a night filled with humor, glamor and drama, just the way we like it. Next stop - the Oscars!!

Critics' Choice Movie Awards 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I had the most fun at this year's Critic's Choice Movie Awards!

CAROLINE: I'm bummed I couldn't attend it with you but I did look for you on TV. And aside from a few perturbing things it was generally a great show.

RYAN: I love how it's really like the Oscars, but in a more intimate venue, since practically all the same nominees and winners will be up again for the Academy Awards next month.

CAROLINE: Yeah that's definitely a cool experience. And it really brings some much needed class to VH1. I think Charlize looked gorge.

RYAN: She always does and I actually followed her into the theater from the red carpet; not a bad view from behind. But seeing stars in person is always so different than how the looks translate in photos. And my pick for best dressed has to be Michelle Williams.

CAROLINE: There were no major upsets or surprises in the categories.

RYAN: The only thing I thought was strange was that after winning Best Actress, Supporting Actress and Acting Ensemble, The Help didn't win for Adapted Screenplay.

CAROLINE: That is interesting.

RYAN: Don't even get me started on how Harry Potter wasn't even nominated in that category but HP 8 did win in a few categories.

CAROLINE: I love that Viola Davis and George Clooney won. I really loved both of their performances.

RYAN: And The Artist really is the movie of the year. Its win is certainly no surprise after all the nominations and buzz.

CAROLINE: And as for the show itself, how did it play live? Were the hosts really that bad?

RYAN: Yes. They were a major fail. No one laughed even a little. Who at VH1 wrote their bits? But the set was very cool.

CAROLINE: And the Martin Scorsese music montage was great.

RYAN: Here's the list of CCMA 2012 winners:

Best Picture: "The Artist"

Best Director: Michel Hazanavicius -- "The Artist"

Best Actor: George Clooney -- "The Descendants"

Best Actress: Viola Davis -- "The Help"

Best Suppporting Actor: Christopher Plummer -- "Beginners"

Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer -- "The Help"

Best Young Actor/Actress: Thomas Horn -- "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"

Best Acting Ensemble: The cast of "The Help"

Best Original Screenplay: Woody Allen -- "Midnight in Paris"

Best Adapted Screenplay: Aaron Sorkin, Steven Zaillian and Stan Chervin -- "Moneyball"

Best Cinematography: (tie) "War Horse" and "The Tree of Life"

Best Animated Feature: "Rango"

Best Action Movie: "Drive"

Best Comedy: "Bridesmaids"

Best Foreign-Language Film: "A Separation"

Best Documentary Feature: "George Harrison: Living in the Material World"

Best Song: "Life's a Happy Song" from "The Muppets"

Best Art Direction: "Hugo"

Best Editing: "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"

Best Costume Design: "The Artist"

Best Makeup: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

Best Visual Effects: "Rise of the Planet of the Apes"

Best Sound: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

Best Score: "The Artist"

Joel Siegel Award: Sean Penn

Critics' Choice Music + Film Award: Martin Scorsese

JOYFUL NOISE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000

RYAN: I hope you're sitting down because something has happened, quite unexpectedly. I really like a January release.

CAROLINE: What?! How is that even possible? January and February are the no-man's-land of film releases.

RYAN: I know! It's the bad movie season, but allow me to qualify - this is not a quality film by any stretch; but that being said, I was totally entertained and loved every after-school-special-like moment of it.

CAROLINE: Wow. When I first saw the trailer for this I almost died of humiliation for everyone involved. Now I don't know if I should be happy for you or embarrassed.

RYAN: I may be a little of both myself. But here's the thing - although the editing and direction is at times awful, and the writing and performances are as cheesy as TV's Glee, I still thoroughly enjoyed it.

CAROLINE: Honey, no judgment.

RYAN: Maybe among all the seriously good Oscar contenders of late, I just wanted some total fluff. There is heart in the story here, but it's kinda silly fun like Sister Act or Glee.

CAROLINE: So break it down for me - Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton.

RYAN: Both terrific. It's my favorite genre, musical, and they both sing and take some personal jabs at each other. This movie's really on par with the likes of Burlesque in many senses, but less sexy and more preachy.

CAROLINE: That paints a picture.

RYAN: It is relatively spiritual but not so much as to be a turn off. And the pop songs all get the gospel treatment and at the end of the day, it's just great music. The only major travesty of the film is that Jesse L. Martin, from Broadway's (and the movie) RENT is in it but doesn't have a song.

CAROLINE: What is that about?

RYAN: I know! I was shocked and saddened by that. He's such a brilliant singer. They shoulda thrown him a bone. It's written and directed by Todd Graff, the same director as Camp from a few years ago, so he knows his way around a musical.

CAROLINE: OMG I loved Camp. I went to that camp, actually.

RYAN: Yeah, so it's a good use of the genre. In the liner notes for the soundtrack he says, "When people ask me what business a gay agnostic has making a church movie, I remind them that it’s a church choir movie. And music has no religion. Music is primal. It brings us together. It creates, in fact, a Joyful Noise. Just ask my mom."

CAROLINE: That's hilarious.

RYAN: He seems super cool. And you can tell he has a great sensibility. There are some really funny lines that poke fun at all the "work" Dolly's had done and the size of Queen.

CAROLINE: OMG Dolly Parton is frightening. She looks like that old puppet, Madame. And Queen - seriously, does she ever look any thinner to you?

RYAN: No. I don't understand how she did a whole diet campaign not too long ago but has never really appeared any larger or smaller at any point in her career. She confuses me.

CAROLINE: And we all know she has a full time personal trainer. Just sayin'.

RYAN: The young leads are great too, especially Jeremy Jordan. I liked him so much, I'd like to see him cast as Fiyero in the film version of the musical Wicked, if and when that ever happens.

CAROLINE: Wow. You must have loved him.

RYAN: I've never been able to think of anyone perfect for the role before him. Ultimately this movie's not for everyone. It's really for the girls, the gays, anyone who likes TV's Glee, etc... But if you fall into that category, get on out and enjoy it.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Quickly I'll just mention that Beauty and the Beast 3D is opening this weekend and even though the 3D wasn't anything cray-cray in The Lion King, I still wouldn't mind getting out to see this one again.

CAROLINE: It was nominated for Best Picture, back when there were only five nominees in that category. And I'm ashamed to admit I've never seen it. But let's get to the new movies also opening this week. First up, a musical, this one live action - Joyful Noise.

RYAN: I don't really see the pairing of Queen Latifah with Dolly Parton but I'll take a musical any day, any time. They both kinda look like caricatures of themselves in the trailer though, don't they?

CAROLINE: [laughs] Strangely, yes. This does look a little bit like an after school special to me.

RYAN: Well it is January, and we can't expect the Oscar caliber films for the next couple months anyway.

CAROLINE: True. Check out the trailer:

RYAN: Next is Contraband, starring Mark Wahlberg, Kate Beckinsale and one of my faves, Ben Foster.

CAROLINE: I'm not a huge Beckinsale fan, though she's very pretty.

RYAN: I know. But the action could be good and Mark usually pics decent material.

CAROLINE: [laughs] The Happening, anyone?

RYAN: OMG! One of the worst ever! OK, so maybe he makes a bomb every now and then.

CAROLINE: This looks like the typical action-save-my-family-from-trouble sorta flick. I might be more into it with Liam Neeson.

RYAN: For sure. Here's the trailer:

Video: Harry Potter Red Carpet Interviews at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: In an attempt to keep the spirit of the Harry Potter movies alive, I've been procrastinating sharing this video since it's the last we're likely to get with the cast now that the franchise has ended.

CAROLINE: Aw honey, I know you're sad. But it really did go out with a bang.

RYAN: So alas, here is my second video from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The red carpet was seriously the most fun I'd ever attended and immediately after, they opened the theme park exclusively to the cast and press. We had the run of the park and it was just outstanding.

CAROLINE: You must have died.

RYAN: Seriously - There were zero lines for all the rides, they cauldron cakes and butter beer, passing around on trays... David Heyman, the producer, introduced the cast and then Warwick Davis conducted the Hogwarts choir just before fireworks went off over the castle. I lit'rally cried.

CAROLINE: I'm surprised you didn't pass out!

RYAN: I'm sure I'll return to Harry Potter World often, but I'll never get to experience it like that again. And I'm just so appreciative of the experience. It was the best weekend of my life and with that, I'm happy to present my interviews from the red carpet:

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - GHOST PROTOCOL

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: The latest Tom Cruise vehicle, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, is positively sizzling at the box office lately. And I totally see why.

RYAN: When an action movie is great, there's almost nothing better... maybe a great musical.

CAROLINE: [laughs] This is definitely one for the big screen. I didn't see it in IMAX, but it's thrilling nonetheless. I was gripping my husband's arm for a good chunk of it. BTW this is the first non-animated feature from director Brad Bird, who did The Incredibles and Ratatouille.

RYAN: This is a major achievement for him. I feel like we say it at least once a year, and it's a credit to whichever creative minds we're referencing at the time, but there are some action sequences that you've never seen before. I love when they think outside of the box and go for the "can we do that?".

CAROLINE: Totally. Some of the action scenes are truly incredible. Yes, that is indeed Tom Cruise really hanging from the tallest building in the world. The man must have a death wish!

RYAN: We'd heard about it for so long. It's kind of unnerving. But for all the Cruise-azy that he is, he's walking the walk.

CAROLINE: It's got a great supporting cast too; Jeremy Renner, the gorgeous Paula Patton and the very funny Simon Pegg, whom you'll recognize from British movies like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Simon made me LOL a few times.

RYAN: I liked the supporting team. There was pretty good chemistry between them. I agree Paula's a looker but I don't think she's the most convincing actress. She does this thing with her eyebrows that makes me think she's trying too hard to act or something.

CAROLINE: This doesn't really seem like the kind of movie to come out this time of year; to me, it's more like a summer blockbuster. But I guess the powers that be at Paramount know what they're doing, because it's been #1 at the B.O. for the past 2 weeks. Maybe people like to have options other than all the Oscar contenders out there.

RYAN: Well at the end of the day, we all just want to be entertained.

CAROLINE: And look for the excellent Tom Cruise run. He runs like no other. I'll give it to him; the man is in shape. And even though I'm a chick, I kind of enjoyed the fact that there's no love story in this one to muck up the action.

RYAN: He does run better than anyone else in the biz. I was actually thinking for a moment during the movie, someone should do a montage of all the movie-sprints he's taken.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: As with the last Mission: Impossible, this is a fun, fast-paced and action-packed movie. Say what you will about Tom Cruise, but he's still got it, people. And he's still gorgeous. How does he do it!? If he's got plastic surgery, he's going to one of the best surgeons around.

RYAN: Looks aside, it's another good story with action that just keeps you on your toes. I've liked each film in this franchise and once again, I want more.

-- RATING --

THE ARTIST

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: The Artist is the black-and-while French silent movie that everyone's talking about and is racking up awards and nominations left and right. That's what happens when you have Harvey Weinstein behind your movie.

RYAN: So true, politically anyway. I'd say I was as dubious as the next person going in to see this film. We make all kinds of assumptions since it's silent and black-and-white. I was hoping for something.

CAROLINE: Me too, but I was so afraid it wouldn't live up to all the hype; not that I really knew what to expect from a silent film. Having said that, I found it very charming.

RYAN: It's actually a bit dramatic and captivating. I think one of the best things working in the film's favor is the score. It's not just a piano track but a more elaborate score which makes a major difference, in comparison to the exhibition of actual silent film of the past.

CAROLINE: I loved the old-timeyness of it. It's all about old Hollywood and the switch from silent movies to talkies. It's sweet and cute but yes, there's definitely a bit o' drama in there too. And for you skeptics who don't think you can enjoy a movie without dialogue, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

RYAN: I kinda fell in love with the leading actor. His eyes are so expressive. It really is one of the best cast roles of the year.

CAROLINE: He's getting nominated all over the place, and I totally agree with you. He's apparently mostly a comedic actor in France, along the lines of Adam Sandler. This role seems like a stretch for him and he really rose to the challenge. I was totally crushing on him by the end.

RYAN: I didn't like the female lead as much though. And she's getting nominated everywhere too. I thought Broadway's Sutton Foster would have been a better choice for the role.

CAROLINE: Oooh, Sutton would have been great, but I liked the girl they used. She's so pretty.

RYAN: I think part of why this movie is getting so much recognition - aside from the film industry's self-lovefest - is that every detail is very well done. From the sets to the costumes and makeup, it's really very much reminiscent of the time it recreates. It's even shot in the old frame size.

CAROLINE: Even though it's pretty short at just over 90 minutes, the end started to drag a little for me. I thought it was going to be over a few minutes before it was. But the ending is great and worth waiting for.

RYAN: It's funny seeing a couple recognizable American faces in there - John Goodman, Penelope Ann Miller, Missi Pyle, James Cromwell...

CAROLINE: Totally. It almost made me want to go out and rent a few old silent movies since I've never seen one.

RYAN: And the dog is very well trained in this movie... just had to mention.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: It's a very sweet movie that will surprise a lot of people. I'm sure some will write it off as too artsy, but it's one of the most buzzed about movies of the year, so it's definitely worth checking out. The acting is great and it's thoroughly enjoyable.

RYAN: I was completely won over and sucked into this movie. I don't think it's Best Picture material, but I do agree with its nomination in that category. If you have the curiosity and/or patience to give it a chance, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by it.

-- RATING --

Our Top 10 Favorites of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Happy New Year!! In the next few months we get to enjoy all the awards shows we love, including the one we vote for - The Critics' Choice Movie Awards.

CAROLINE: I'm so thrilled for you that you're attending again this year. It's truly a highlight in glamor. And statistically, as a part of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, as a group, we tend to be the most accurate predictors of the Oscars... both nominees and winners.

RYAN: The Golden Globes and SAG awards are super fun too.

CAROLINE: Oh honey, I love it all. It's the most wonderful time of the year. And a cause to celebrate with Rice Krispies treats.

RYAN: Always! Here are my favorite 5 films of the year:

1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
2. War Horse
3. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
4. The Ides of March
5. Carnage

CAROLINE: My 5 favorite films of 2011, and I admittedly haven't seen them everything that came out yet, but sue me, I have a baby at home, are:

1. The Descendants
2. The Help
3. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
4. Bridesmaids
5. The Artist

CAROLINE: I'd also like to give honorable mention to a few movies that may not be on the Oscar level, but that I thoroughly enjoyed nonetheless: The Lincoln Lawyer - make fun of me if you will, but I really liked it and it would make a great rental; The Other Woman with Natalie Portman, which totally moved me; and Win Win, that wrestling movie with Paul Giamatti that came out in the spring. Actually, Win Win could almost be award worthy; it had really good acting.

RYAN: I'll go ahead and add The Debt, for the intensity and performances by Jessica Chastain, Sam Worthington and Helen Mirren. It's not getting much recognition but is a very well done film that's super entertaining. And then I'd throw in The Adventures of Tintin just for the fun of it.

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: You read the book and saw the Swedish version of this movie and I hadn't so we can give both views on this one. I, for one, freaking loved it!

CAROLINE: I did too. I think I liked this better than the Swedish one actually - the characterization of Lisbeth Salander was pitch perfect.

RYAN: Even at the start, the opening credits were incredible. It was like an amazingly innovative and creative music video. I felt I had my money's worth even then, at 5 minutes in.

CAROLINE: I thought the credits were a little weird, honestly. I was like, "How does this relate to the story?" But I guess it wasn't supposed to completely. It was just supposed to look cool and prepare you for the dark twisted place you're about to go.

RYAN: I was totally into the story. Fincher does an amazing job sucking you in with suspense. In every frame, I kept worrying someone was gonna get jumped.

CAROLINE: Even though I'd read the book and knew exactly what was going to happen, I was totally on the edge of my seat too. They changed the ending somewhat, but it didn't bother me.

RYAN: The cast is fantastic. Kate Mara has to be freaking out for her little sis. Rooney is completely devoid of herself in this role. I could see her getting nominated for an Oscar. And I don't think it's all hair, makeup and titular tattoo.

CAROLINE: Couldn't agree more. She absolutely disappears into this character and she's unrecognizable. The hair, makeup and costume department totally outdid themselves. I was über impressed all around.

RYAN: How did you like Daniel Craig's butt crack? I was a little embarrassed for him, honestly.

CAROLINE: Ha, I barely noticed. I was too busy noticing how unabashedly naked Rooney is throughout the film.

RYAN: I was really floored and disturbed by some scenes. How did those intense moments compare to your idea of them from the book and in the original film?

CAROLINE: Honestly, they were hard to watch. And equally hard to watch in the Swedish film. I was worried I might have nightmares but I seem to be OK so far.

RYAN: I loved the score, the soundtrack and the locations. The layout off all the houses was really incredible.

CAROLINE: Yeah, the music is insanely good. It's Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross again; they also did the score for Fincher's Social Network last year. It fits the mood of the movie perfectly. And there's also an awesome Enya moment at the end of the movie. It would be hilarious if it weren't so disturbing.

RYAN: Although it's a long movie at two and a half hours, it's engaging. And I like that all loose ends were tied up. It's a very complete and completely satisfying film. I predicted some things but was happy to be surprised by others.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: I really enjoyed this movie. I was not at all disappointed, even though I was worried it might not live up to the hype. I never should doubt you, David Fincher! It's definitely long, but it flew by for me. I actually didn't want it to end. And again, I couldn't be more impressed by Rooney Mara. She nailed it.

RYAN: This is, for sure, one of my favorite movies of the year. While maybe not Best Picture material, it is certainly in the league of Silence of the Lambs.

-- RATING --

THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: Hands down the best-looking animated film ever!

CAROLINE: Seriously?! That's quite the remark.

RYAN: It just goes to show you - as amazing as animation has become today, in the hands of the right director, it can be taken to an even higher level. My favorite director, Robert Zemeckis, did The Polar Express and the animated Disney's A Christmas Carol, but I'm sorry Bob... Spielberg just one upped you with Tintin.

CAROLINE: Wow. I never thought I'd hear you throw Zemeckis under the bus.

RYAN: I still love him. But this is truly something to behold. It's not just the animation that's wonderful, but it's really the direction. The camera angles, zoom, movement... it looks like a live action film. And the skin and hair, something usually awkward in animation is much better in this too.

CAROLINE: It's remarkable how the technology is just continuously improving.

RYAN: There's been a lot of buzz around this movie and how it's kinda Indiana Jonesy and I definitely see that since it's an adventure movie but I also think it's very true to the spirit of the Tintin comics. He's a journo-sleuth. And I totally identify with him.

CAROLINE: [laughs] Tintin?

RYAN: Well, he has a dog.

CAROLINE: That's such a stretch! So is this the kind of animated film that's good for all ages?

RYAN: Definitely. And not just because of the technical achievement but also because it's an engaging story. I've read some reviews complaining that the story is a little thin and the characters lack dimension. While that may be a bit true, it doesn't detract from the overall entertainment value of this movie.

CAROLINE: Well when it's animated, it's kind of like one whole big effect, but are there any stand-out moments?

RYAN: Several. There are some action scenes that are so good, they rival the best live action scenes I've ever seen. There's one sequence that's animated as though it's real time and all one, continuous take and it's just outstanding. That moment alone deserves the best animated Oscar.

CAROLINE: Ok, you're convinced. I'll still leave it to you.

RYAN: This is one I watched at home on DVD as a screener "for your consideration" but I enjoyed it so much, I actually went to the theater to pay and see again in 3D. It's Spielberg. It's Peter Jackson. It's totally worth it.

-- RATING --

WAR HORSE

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

RYAN: It's a very Spielberg holiday season what with two of his films coming out at the same time. Let's start with the epic masterpiece that is War Horse.

CAROLINE: I haven't seen either of his new films but would really only see this one if push came to shove.

RYAN: This is my favorite movie of the year, just behind Harry Potter 8.

CAROLINE: Really?

RYAN: Yes. I loved the show on Broadway and I love the movie too. While there was a certain magic to the "puppetry" on stage, I connected much more emotionally to the film. It just brings you in.

CAROLINE: Well without giving away the plot, as we never do, why did you love it s'much?

RYAN: It's just a beautifully crafted film - gorgeously shot and framed, wonderfully cast and an engaging story to boot.

CAROLINE: Nice. Ok breakdown the cast for me. How's the horse?

RYAN: [laughs] Well several horses played Joey and it's amazing 1) how much emotion an animal can convey and 2) what those horses went through.

CAROLINE: I can only imagine. It's a horse at war, darling.

RYAN: It's true and as a rule I hate war movies; the genre in general. But I was so into this. I knew the story from the show on Broadway, but also there's something that the film brings to it, maybe it's the score or where it draws your focus, so intensely close... it's just breathtaking. I cried thrice.

CAROLINE: Stop! You? I'm not really all that into war movies either.

RYAN: The young star, Jeremy Irvine is fantastic. There's also David Thewlis, Emily Watson, and other recognizable faces sprinkled throughout.

CAROLINE: I imagine anyone would want to work with Spielberg.

RYAN: Def. I really liked the vibe and timing. It's a bit deliberate in its pacing and in some ways, it's like a bunch of chapters, or short films, about this horse, strung together. But most of it is tragically beautiful and some of the shots were very cool and reminiscent of, like, Gone with the Wind - silhouettes over orange sunsets... that kind of thing.

CAROLINE: Sounds nice.

RYAN: This is one of the best films of the year. I love going into a movie with high expectations and then leaving, glad they were met. It's a little bit of a slow burn, but when you're in the mood for it... check it out in the theater.

-- RATING --

THE DESCENDANTS

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

CAROLINE: The Descendants was one of my most anticipated movies of the year, and I'm so thrilled to say it doesn't disappoint. It stars Clooney and it's from director Alexander Payne who hasn't done a feature since Sideways.

RYAN: It's about time, Mr. Payne! I too, was excited for this movie and really liked it. There has been much ado about this film this awards season and I have to admit, amidst the hype, it strongly holds up.

CAROLINE: OMG it was so moving! I cried early and often. It's such a weeper. But there are so many things to love about this movie.

RYAN: Starting with the George himself. I'm not the ginormous Clooney fan many are, but he's fabulous in this. He gives a fantastic, nuanced, tender and modest performance.

CAROLINE: He's so natural and effortless in this. I totally bought him as a dad, even though we know he's not one in real life. He gives a really great, understated performance here. I'm impressed.

RYAN: I also adored Judy Greer. She doesn't have a huge role, but when she's on screen, she's perfect. I know we've adored her for many years now, but she usually gets stuck with the BFF roles in rom coms and here's the first time we can see her actually flex some acting muscle.

CAROLINE: I love her too. Everyone in this movie blew me away; not to mention the two daughters! Both were great, but the older one, Shailene Woodley, already has several nominations and major Oscar buzz. She was as good as everyone says she is. She actually reminded me of Lindsay Lohan a bit... hopefully minus the drug addiction.

RYAN: I thought she was good but I don't really see her as best supporting actress. I don't think she gave the performance of the year but, clearly, I'm in the minority on this one.

CAROLINE: It's just such a poignant movie. So many topics are covered between infidelity, family values, absentee fathering, death, money, all of it. It made me feel very deeply.

RYAN: Easy, honey. I do like movies with multi-issues, see Carnage; and this is another good one.

CAROLINE: I know I sound lame. I'm just trying to convey the emotional impact the movie had on me. It was major. This is definitely one of my favorites of the year.

RYAN: Let's talk about the gorge scenery. When are we goin' to Hawaii?

CAROLINE: Oh, any time! It's amazing and just naturally stunning. And it makes you wonder if people really live like this. Living there seems like a permanent vacation!

RYAN: Well, lest we forget, Clooney's character is beyond loaded so that helps. And in real life, he lives much of the time in Lake Como, so he certainly knows how to live la vita bella.

-- BOTTOM LINE --

CAROLINE: This movie made me feel so many different things, and it covers so many human emotions. You want to hate certain characters for what they're doing, but sometimes you can't, and it just really runs the gamut of so many different feelings. I don't want to ruin the story so the less said the better; but suffice it to say, I loved it.

RYAN: The through-line of this film adds a bit of suspense and keeps you engaged for sure. I agree it's one of the year's best films even though I wasn't as emotional as you were; but truth be told, I did tear up once. So it got me too.

-- RATING --

Trailer Tuesdays!

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan & Caroline) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

CAROLINE: Can I just tell you I am dying to see this movie!

RYAN: I think you just did.

CAROLINE: I read the book, all of them actually, and just loved them so I've been craving this film since they announced the production. I was especially keen on finding out who the leading role would go to but I'm happy with the choice of Rooney Mara.

RYAN: Any relation to Mickey Rooney?

CAROLINE: [laughs] There have been several trailers for this film and I think they've all been exciting.

RYAN: Agreed. The music, editing, all of it, everything... The Daniel Craig. I think this'll be a winner this season... and I'm not talking awards.

CAROLINE: Yes. Interestingly, unlike most films this time of year, the studio hasn't aggressively pushed this one onto those of us who nominate and vote. I hope that's not a bad sign. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Also new is the first of two Steven Spielberg films coming out this month!

CAROLINE: Christmas really is coming!

RYAN: This one is animated and looks abba-solutely encroy-ah-bluh. I'm not a fan of Tintin so I know nothing about the character but this looks like an animated Indiana Jones movie.

CAROLINE: I'd have preferred another Indy Jones movie. I'm not one for animation.

RYAN: I've seen, I think, all but one of the year's big animated films and already think this animation looks beyond. It's so detailed and cool. I saw the trailer in 3D and thought, "Oh shut it down!" It's just so good. I can't wait to see this. Here's the trailer:

RYAN: Next is a new movie from the man who brought us Jerry Maguire, which I loved.

CAROLINE: But instead of Tom Cruise and Renee Zellweger, we have Matt Damon and ScarJo.

RYAN: Cameron Crowe is a great director but this trailer looks so sappy I don't even wanna see it.

CAROLINE: Really? I'd see it. Though I'm dying to see a lot of movies lately.

RYAN: I like the cast but don't really see the chemistry between the leads and even the title irks me.

CAROLINE: It's does paint a picture. Here's the trailer: