Warrior

The summer went by briskly, and without much of note... at least in the world of movies.  The films that were supposed to stink stunk. The films that were supposed to be great turned out fine, and the films that nobody really seemed to focus on turned out to be the ones truly worth viewing (aka--"Rise of the Planet of the Apes").  So, after a season that left me overall deflated in areas such as excitement, and hope for cool movies I realized that I didn't know what movies were coming up this fall that I was excited for.  I no longer knew what was even coming out.  Enter the weekend of 9/11.  We have a movie about world-wide catastrophe in "Contagion", or the seemingly straight-forward underdog sports film, "Warrior".  "Contagion" seemed to play too much to the sensationalism of the press, and their leeching off of the hearts of humanity and its shock at the horrors around them; then throw in a release date right next to September 11th, and the idea of seeing a movie about global devastation felt too taboo and tacky for me to support.  I opted for "Warrior".  I think I made the right choice.

Warrior captured me right out of the gate. The cinematography is wonderfully executed, and though not revolutionary, it kept you looking with an interested eye.  If a  movie can capture me exposition-wise then I'm already half sold.  The script also hits all the right notes: characters are introduced interestingly, and before I knew it I cared about, or at least were keenly interested in these people before I had heard more than a few lines of dialogue.

I don't want to give much away because I'm encouraging everyone who can to see this, but I'll give a vague introductory. One thing to get out of the way is that this is obviously a movie featuring organized competitive mixed martial arts (MMA), but the movie is much more than what it looks like on the surface. The story, at its heart, is about family and the wide variety of struggles that can arise in any one family. Some of the family feuding present is fully expected, and nothing new, but the majority of the family dynamics are intriguing, and fascinating.  A lot of questions arise within the characters, and, more importantly, the viewer questions what values are most important to us, and what would we have done or do in these characters positions?  These questions kept me glued to the story throughout. 

Of course "Warrior" wouldn't be much of a fighting movie without some good ol' hand-to-hand combat.  The fight scenes are filmed compellingly, and are a nice mix up from the long standing Rocky-esque formula that most might come to expect.  There are multiple fights. They're rough, gritty, and almost every single one carries equal weight.  With each punch thrown there is anticipation, and a strong feeling of impact.  A couple of the knockouts left me literally saying "Holy Cow!"  That's the skill and excitement at which the fights are filmed.

When all is said and done I have to admit I loved this movie.  Maybe that is part of my inner male aggression coming out.  Maybe it was a need to see a film where I never had to grimace at the acting or dialogue.  But, mostly I think I loved "Warrior" because it took familiar themes and adeptly turned them on their heads in a thoughtful way... unlike almost all of the summer blockbuster fare.  I'm going out on a limb.... "Warrior" is the best movie of the year so far.

Grade: A-

Rango

This movie is something else. It's a whole other animal. It's an animated movie made all the wrong ways...which makes it very right. It breaks the mold of most animated movies today, and it does so gloriously. It's the perfect vessel for Johnny Depp's quirkiness, and while its story is not revolutionary it is well executed, and fun.
Rango is a lizard who is, rather formaically, thrust from his aquarium existence into a world completely outside of his expertise: a town stuck in the old west full of rough, eccentric characters that are wary of outsiders. The lizard takes this as an opportunity to reinvent himself, and in so doing sets off events that are seemingly way beyond his control...and fun, and hilarity ensues.

I left the theater happy after this one. That being said I must inform that this animated film isn't standard kids fare. There are some more or less evil characters that do get killed, and a decent amount of gunfire. It is a PG film, but is outside the norm and is geared a little more for adults than the kiddies.

Grade: A-

True Grit

For anyone that is sitting on the fence about seeing this, or if you have only just heard of it then I have some sound advice for ya: See It! It is a well-acted, well-paced, and, heaven-forbid, fun Oscar contending movie. Jeff Bridges seems to do no wrong lately, and this film continues his hitting streak. Matt Damon also stars. This time around Damon plays a Texas Ranger that you want to laugh at because it seems like such a stretch for him, but also give him a pat on the back because you end up totally buying into his performance, as well as laughing along with the character's quirkiness. The "new-comer" Hailee Steinfeld is also great, and her performance is receiving a lot of early Oscar buzz. I was a little taken aback by how strong of a performance she turned in at such a relatively young age.

I saw the film with multiple people over the holidays, and everyone walked away with a positive impression of the film. There were also a lot of comments on how humorous the movie was, and how unexpected they found that. That really sums up the whole film: a positive experience with little twists of the unexpected. I'd recommend it to most anyone.

Memorable amusing quote: "Them men wanted a decent burial, they should have got themselves killed in summer." --Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges)

Grade: A-

Thank you for keeping the Hobbit in New Zealand

A great video clip of the support to keep 'The Hobbit' in NZ. I'm sharing this for two reasons:
1. It's GREAT news!
2. I'm in the video. I'm quoted during the voice-over part when they are flying over the snowy mountain saying something like, "Because of the love, and care that the New Zealand people put into the original trilogy..." Plus I'm seen towards the end of the video as well. It's exciting to be a part of this cool vid, and it's wonderful news that Middle Earth is staying where it belongs!

It's Official: The Hobbit gets the Greenlight!

Yes! It's official! The Hobbit has been Green-lit, and will start filming this upcoming February! I'm speechless a little bit, but very happy. I've been checking The Hobbit status almost daily since December 2009, and am all the more elated because of it. There have been endless hurdles for this movie over the past 3 years, but it's come out of the litigious nightmare to become a reality. I was initially excited to have Del Toro direct, but he pulled out as there were so many Hobbit hurdles to overcome just this last May, and he had other projects he wanted to work on too. Now we have Sir Peter Jackson at the directing reigns, and it couldn't be in better hands!

For those of you (including myself) that are still a little sad about Guillermo's departure fear not: There are going to be many creature designs, and animatics in The Hobbit that were personally overseen by him in the development process. So, Guillermo's vision (at least part of it) will be seen on film as well as PJ's. Guillermo has also been a co-head writer throughout the whole scripting process (along with Peter Jackson, Phillipa Boyens, and Fran Walsh--all of which were the head writers on the Lord of the Rings Trilogy). So good news still abounds, and I for one am a very happy hobbit.

We can expect the first film to hit theaters December 2012, and the second installment to hit one year later in December 2013.

The following links are to further hobbit greenlight news, and possible new cast member info as well! "For the Shire!"

Hobbit is Green-lit: http://marketsaw.blogspot.com/

Second story on The Hobbit's Greenlight: http://www.theonering.net/torwp/2010/10/15/39138-press-release-from-new-linewarner-bros-oscar-winner-peter-jackson-to-direct-%E2%80%9Cthe-hobbit%E2%80%9D-in-two-installments/

Casting and futher film information: http://www.theonering.net/torwp/

Sesame Street: Smell Like A Monster

Look at yourself. Now back to me!
I am on a horse. Moo!

Too Late to Apologize: A Declaration

What better way to honor our Founding Fathers???

PS-This amused me greatly!

2010 Summer Movie Grades

Here are my grades/rankings for the summer movie season of 2010!

1. Inception: A
2. Toy Story 3: A
3. Iron Man 2 : B+
4. Robin Hood: B+
5. Prince of Persia: B+
6. The A-Team: B
7. Knight & Day: B
8. Despicable Me: B-

Prince of Persia

It's nice when one goes into a movie not expecting much, and is able to walk out fully satisfied with the experience. Prince of Persia is such a movie. Most video game movies aren't worth snuff. Actually I can probably safely say that almost all video game adaptations are failures--Prince of Persia is a major step forward in reversing all of that.

The film is about an adopted young ruffian that finds favor in the king's eyes through his courageous, and selfless acts towards a friend of his on the street. The adopted riff-raff gets the title of prince and a life of luxury. Years pass and the warring Persian empire stumbles across a unique holy city and decides to capture it despite outcries from advisers saying that such an attack on a god favored sanctuary will be dire in the end. During the attack on the city our prince stumbles across a dagger that he later discovers will turn back time when used. This power is obviously not going to be overlooked by many, and a bounty of power-hungry parties pursue it. It is up to the prince, and his reluctant, elusive, meddling female companion (whose companionship he acquired during the raid on the holy city) to ensure that the magical relic is protected from the wrong sorts. The pursuit takes a personal toll on the prince as well, as those who are pursuing the dagger seek to frame him for heinous crimes.

The time-travel premise is played out surprisingly well. It has a fresh take on the much used movie gimmick, and surprised me with it's satisfying payoffs when the time-travel was used. Jake Gyllenhall provides a good enough performance as Prince Dastan, and I never had any complaints about his character throughout. When you boil it down this is a fun movie that aspires to be just that: fun. It has a similar feeling to Pirates of the Caribbean, but obviously doesn't have the genius of Johnny Depp. What it does have, though, is a very good, well-rounded cast that all equally pull there weight (especially a delightful performance by the always stellar Alfred Molina of Spider-Man 2 Doc Oc fame) in an amusing, enjoyable romp about the deserts and oasis' of the ancient Middle-East. A fun view.

Grade: B+

Robin Hood by Ridley Scott

The newest Robin Hood movie has been fairly hammered by critics. I have a one word response: "Why?" It baffles me to be honest. No, the movie isn't the next step in evolution (like some critics believe a movie has to be to be considered any good), but it's not to be dismissed.

This story of Robin Hood is an origin story of sorts. The tale is about how he became who we know him to be. It's a fun idea that plays out very well. Russell Crowe's Robin Hood isn't a prance-about-swashbuckler (which seemed to annoy people), but he's a tough warrior that is struggling to bring sense and order to a torn country. The story goes for a more realistic type of take on the classic character, and less of the fantastical one-liner affair that other Robin Hood's exude.

If you like Ridley Scott at all, then you WILL like this movie. It's not perfect, but what movie is? Even the best of movies have those who find fault in them. Entertainment-wise the movie stands strongly, and there is no worry about acting: everyone is near-top notch. I have to admit that I'm a Russell Crowe fan. That being said though, this iteration of the man of the hood is a good yarn.

Grade: B+

Iron Man 2

Easily two thumbs up on this movie. Robert Downey Jr. commands every scene he's in, and Don Cheadle is a more than adequate replacement for James "Rhodey" Rhodes. Gwyneth Paltrow is just flat out fun to watch, and her character balances everything out so well, and adds that extra layer of character depth to the whole movie that really makes it all work. I love Mickey Rourke as the villain, and my only complaint there is that they didn't give him a little more dialogue because his character is just so intriguing to me. Very fun summer action flick, with a bounty of good comedic moments too. Not a masterpiece in movie-making, but a fun ride that I'm sure I'll be taking a few more times.

Grade: B+

The King of Kong

"The King of Kong: A fistful of Quarters." An unusual documentary about the high price, and the intense stress of obtaining the world record in the game of "Donkey Kong." Yep, you heard right, Donkey Kong! The story of the back and forth battle for the 20+ year standing record between the elusive Billy, and the determined Steve is nothing short of captivating. I was a little skeptical when my brother, Chris, let me borrow this movie, but was most pleasantly surprised. It's funny, intense, frustrating, liberating, and enlightening. I'm not joking, it's an in depth experience that goes beyond just the game. In the words of the protagonist, "It's not even about 'Donkey Kong' anymore...".

This movie has an underdog hero, a conniving, scheming, calculating villain, and a quirky mediator to top it all off. There's deceit, anger, love, lying, cheating, rivalry, and camaraderie. A movie that once again proves that life can be stranger than fiction. The more I ponder over this film the more I think fondly upon it. The eventual antagonist even has the equivalent of henchmen for crying out loud! Hilarious and infuriating!!! A must see for anyone interested in a good laugh, and an even better story. It's out now on DVD. Released in 2007. Run-time: 90 minutes. Rated PG-13 (barely...mostly PG).

Grade: A

Clash of the Titans

I saw the old iteration of the "Clash of the Titans" many, many years ago, and have very few memories of it. What I do remember is that it was not that good, but entertaining none-the-less. The new movie follows those same sentiments almost exactly. " Clash of the Titans" is not that good... film-making-wise, and the script is flawed on multiple levels, but it somehow squeezes out fun entertainment! I can't totally explain it, but I really liked the movie. It's not one that you will be dissecting, and delving into. It's not a movie that will be discussed in any awards ceremonies, but it is escapist fun, and it knows it. Clash doesn't try to be better than it really is, and it hits well on its intended targets. I feel comfortable recommending it to most people--so long as they know to go into the movie with the idea that it's not high art, but fun escapism.

Grade: B

How To Train Your Dragon

I saw this movie last night and was very pleasantly surprised! I loved the animation, and I feel this is DreamWorks studios best release to date. It best competes with it's big animation rival Pixar. I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. The story is fun, and heart-felt. I especially liked the fact that they steered away from most pop-culture references, and came out to tell a story. It didn't try to be overly funny with lame jokes, and it didn't dumb down some of its more emotionally poignant moments because of the children in the audience. I especially loved the giant dragon at the end--Cool Stuff! A good, fun, dragon-fighting and flying romp! I recommend this movie to just about anyone! And kids will probably love it.

Grade: A-

In honor of St Patty's Day I submit the following link to a fun video I made on JibJab. Enjoy!

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/vCnO2R0dRWqeqNj9

Alice in Wonderland, Avatar, and Holmes

I never reviewed AVATAR, but rest assured that I thought it was spectacular! Left the film in awe. My favorite movie released in 2009. Most everyone has seen this one already so the review on this is not entirely necessary. Still only seen it once, but am dying to see it again.

Avatar Grade: A

I never reviewed SHERLOCK HOLMES, but I can tell you that you should definitely see it when you can--dollar theater or DVD. It has wonderful/beautiful (and Oscar nominated) art direction; plus, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law are entertaining throughout. You can't seem to go wrong with Robert Downey Jr. these days--it's hard to take your eyes off of his performances.

Sherlock Holmes Grade: B+

ALICE IN WONDERLAND is what I'm reviewing for now. Simply put, a waste of wonderful source material, and talent. How could a movie with the tremendous talents of Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, and Helena Bonham Carter be so ensconced mediocrity? Wasn't terrible, but wasn't memorable. Whomever wrote the screenplay drifted from the original story, and made up one of their own. A story in which Alice is older, and is returning to Wonderland only to remember nothing of it turned out to be quite un-magical, and disapointing. It is very kooky, but the charm is not there. Things just sort of happen without any real explanation...which might be good for a film based on this source material, but in this case it's bad. Some of the few upsides include a fun performance from the Cheshire Cat, a moody performance from the Caterpillar (voiced by Alan Rickman of Harry Potter Snape fame), and decent performances from Depp and Bonham Carter as the Red Queen. They got the most out of the script they could...at least that's what it felt like. The art direction was pretty good overall, but not strong enough to carry the film on its shoulders alone.

I would say worth seeing once, and although the 3D was done very well it is not worth your money, if you do see it in theaters, to go the 3D route. I would advise the dollar theater or DVD rental.

Alice in Wonderland Grade: C+

Lars and the Real Girl

I watched "Lars and the Real Girl" last night when sleep was elusive, and I found myself very effected by the movie. It is very emotionally deep and, admittedly, I felt a somewhat pathetic sympathy for the title character, Lars. The movie is about a late 20's or 30ish shy man that has reached a mental breaking point in his life, and falls in love with a life-size plastic doll. Yes, it is that kind of doll, but the fact that it is that kind of doll is a very minuscule and unimportant part of the movie. Throughout the course of the film Lars projects and relates some of his own internal problems in and through his plastic affection. He fully believes that she is real, and those around him not only cannot convince him otherwise, but must end up embracing this "woman" as real. She helps Lars cope with the difficult life that he has to deal with around him, and in him. The emotions between Lars and the plastic woman are quite poignant, and the personal effect it had on me was profound. Lars is fighting through, among other things, the difficulty to find companionship, and love. I admit to really empathizing with his struggle in those areas. When you see that he reaches that point of desperation for friendship, companionship, and love that drives him to seek out those things in something inanimate, and somewhat absurd, I could relate on a certain level. I can relate to the feeling of loneliness, and need. My own life seems to coincide with some of Lars' needs and deficiencies in a similar way right now. No, I'm not going to go buy a giant doll, but the emotions are still similar to many of our own.

I don't want to give away the ending, or any major plot points, but I will say that it is NOT a movie that will leave you depressed afterwards. I tell you this because I know, through experience, that watching a drama that ends in pure, unresolved sadness is hard to like. This movie gives hope, and is thought-provoking. The actor who plays Lars (Ryan Gosling) is superb as well. I believe he was nominated for an Academy Award for this role. The movie sounds bizarre, but it is actually easier to accept the concept and the film than you might think. I was very skeptical, but was quite impressed. A must see in my opinion.

Rating: A

Fall Movie Reviews

A couple fall movies of note:

Surrogates:
Better than I thought it would be. You can tell that some of it's ideas are stolen, or unintentionally borrowed from other sci-fi, but most of the ideas are quite original. Not an amazing Bruce Willis performance, but it's almost always fun to watch him anyways.

Grade: B

The Invention of Lying:
The opening scenes of this movie, especially some witty commentary by Ricky Gervais over the opening credits are stupendously, and unavoidably hilarious! Almost from start to finish I was laughing out-loud. It's a story about a world where nobody can lie. Everyone tells the truth, and the truth about what's on their mind all the time...very funny! I only have one true gripe with the film, and that is a scene toward the beginning where there is some uneeded, semi-prolonged sexual humor. The premise is great, and a truly original idea.

Grade: B+

Whip It:
A surpising movie for me. A story about a 17 year-old girl that joins a women's roller derby team behind her parents backs, and becomes quite good at it. Tensions rise when it's found out that she is underage, and must get her parents permission to compete. The movie has good-taste heart-felt moments; some good small town Napoleon-Dynamite-esque humor, and a very funny coach character that is played by Owen Wilson's brother Andrew. Andrew's sense of humor, and diction is amazingly close to his brother's... and hilarious.

Grade: B+

Avatar Pictures

These are some still frames from the brand new trailer. I like these because it gives you a closer look at just how good the CGI is. The textures, etc. are simply amazing!

Happy AVATAR Day!










I can't wait for this movie. It's going to be breathtaking! Happy AVATAR Day!

2009 Summer Movie Grades

Letter grade standings of all the summer movies that I've seen from highest to lowest:

1. Up: A
2. Star Trek: A-
3. Harry Potter 6: B+
4. Angels & Demons: B+
5. Terminator Salvation: B
6. Wolverine: B
7. Drag Me To Hell: B
8. Transformers 2: B-
9. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra: C+
10. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs: C