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A Woman's Face (1941)
An Underrated film - Crawford at her best
When Joan Crawford's best films are the subject of any discussion, the list always includes the film she won the Oscar for - "Mildred Pierce" and for good reason - its a fine film with an outstanding cast and even today, holds up pretty well.
But what seems to get lost in the shuffle is a film she made four years earlier, which in many ways equals and in some ways surpasses "Mildred Pierce" -- the 1941 film "A Woman's Face" is a much underrated film which showcases one of Crawford's best roles.
An intriguing story of a woman who has lived as an outcast because of facial scars suffered in a fire since childhood and now lives among unscrupulous scheming blackmailers, herself becoming the most skilled of their group - when a plastic surgeon decides to fix the deformity that has made her a bitter and distrustful woman, she is introduced to the possibility of living a normal life, one where she can as she says in the film - when the world looks at her - "she can look back" without hiding.
The film is a well-blended mix of dark characters and and some very quirky humorous ones too, directed by one of MGM's A-team directors George Cukor. The story is told in a series of flashbacks ie..each witnesses testimony before a Swiss court for a woman who is accused of murder.
Conrad Veight in a role that could be considered almost a precursor of his famous role of Maj. Strasser in Casablanca, particularly stands out - his villainous, cynical dialogue carries the darker scenes very effectively. However two parts are weak - Melvyn Douglas, who can usually be depended on for an admirable performance, comes across as very bland and predictable and Osa Massen - her scenes are painful to watch, overacted to the point that it makes you wince - but these parts are fortunately overshadowed by the other supporting roles that are made up of a quirky assortment of characters that include Reginald Owen, Marjorie Main and Donald Meek that bring an off-the-wall humor but in a subtle way - Meek is particularly good in his part.
The photography and the sets are beautifully done. The film offers a good use of close-ups and shadows that in some ways resembles the techniques heavily used in the "film noir" films of the late 40's and early 50's - and in a time when films were rarely shot on location "A Woman's Face" has some of the most beautifully crafted sets that remind me a little of the "Magnificent Ambersons" they really stand out.
But the star of the movie is without a doubt - Joan Crawford - her performance draws you in even more so than her role in "Mildred Pierce" and she has probably never looked more naturally beautiful.
If you're a Joan Crawford fan or not - check this one out - its good
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
Marvel Shines Again - Captain America First Avenger - First Rate
Captain America the First Avenger is an excellent adaption of the super hero who originated back in the 1940's. The film not only captures the flavor and essence of the time period and its characters, but an exciting good versus evil element in its most fundamental form. Chris Evan plays the part of Steve Rogers perfectly - a young man who wants to serve his country in its most perilous time. What we see is a "good man" who transforms into a hero that is not only needed in his own time but possibly one to set an example for future generations too. Tony Stark as Iron Man has his inner demons, Thor has his arrogance and his family nobility to live up to, the Hulk has his anger issues - but with Captain America, you know you have a man, true and devoted to a code, who will always, no matter where or what, will do the right thing.
The action scenes are excellent, fast-paced and exciting. The supporting characters are especially well done - Hugo Weaving as Red Skull, Tobey Jones as Arnim Zola, Tommy Lee Jones as Col. Phillips, Stanley Tucci as Abraham Erskine, Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter, Dominic Cooper as Howard Stark and Sebastian Shaw as Bucky, all round out a good cast of characters; each having a vital part in the story, yet also blend and develop and carry the story along with Cap in a smooth and uncomplicated way.
*Note: In a series of films that are leading up to possibly one of the most anticipated of the super hero series - "The Avengers" each individual entry has and is tied to each other and has a direct effect on the one film that will bring them all together. If this series of films, which is essentially the combined ingredients to the one film, is successful - it may prove to be one of the most successful film series pulled off in cinema history.
Iron Man, Thor, and The Incredible Hulk all stand alone very well - I think each one has been adapted to the big screen in a positive way, staying true to the real source from the comic books and each has a good dose of excitement, action and likable characters with surprisingly good depth - and I hope we will see more of their adventures individually. But for some reason, I can't help but feel that in some way that Captain America was a measuring stick in the series to determine whether the genre lives. If Cap was a failure, I think Marvel would be second-guessing whether to proceed with other films - if one of their most popular characters were to crash and burn then we may not see anymore after the Avengers. But - happy to say, I heard a resounding stamp of approval at the ending credits of this film and an even more intense reception at the short preview clip of the Avengers in the post credits. Not only does Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and the others pave the way for the Avengers but possibly future film treatments from the Marvel Universe. I'm sure that Marvel is banking on the success of these films to determine whether they have the green light to consider bringing other Marvel characters such as Dr. Strange, Black Panther, Namor, Vision, Hawkeye and perhaps a better version of the Silver Surfer and Fantastic Four and Daredevil too, into the mix.
After seeing Captain America, it without a doubt, stands as one the pillars of the series.
Can't wait to see Cap in the Avengers.
Iron Man 2 (2010)
Good Action - but overall - very lacking
Everything that made the first Iron Man film so good is attempted in this sequel but for the most part, falls short - the film looks lazy - as if it is simply living off the first film's success.
Despite this the film still has merit. I particularly liked the part of the story that included the Howard Stark flashback and that tie-in to the story. Robert Downey Jr. is still good in most of his scenes - especially the quiet, calm moments where he is in a way being re-introduced to his late father - these scenes are good - but the scene where he is intoxicated and entertaining a bunch of party animals is ridiculous and no doubt, rolled several pairs of eyes in the cinema, including mine. Anyone who read the Iron Man stories, knows full well that Tony Stark had his inner-demons and had a drinking problem for a while but this part of the character could have been handled in a much more effective way in the film. The Pepper Potts character is already getting stale. Nick Fury scenes are intriguing but pretty much just set up material for the up-coming Avengers movie and though the post credits cameo of a certain thunder god's hammer found in the NM desert tantalizes the Marvelites, so many of the performances simply looked uninspired.
The film is still entertaining and the action scenes do not disappoint - especially the scene at the race track involving Whiplash and the final scene where Iron Man and War Machine are facing off against the deadly drones. Scarlett Johannson did a commendable job as Black Widow her scenes are good but they are rushed - hope to see more of this character's development in The Avengers movie. The Justin Hammer character brought a few laughs as well as Happy Hogan, but if there is to be another Iron Man film - they need to inject it with the same elements that made the first film such a hit and then take it to the next level as we saw in X-Men 2.
X: First Class (2011)
Overall - good X-Men prequel
I'm glad to see that the X-Men series has rebounded after the very disappointing "X-Men Origins - Wolverine" movie.
"X-Men - First Class" benefits by a much better script and the brilliant pairing of James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender as the younger Professor X and Magneto. The film is carried by the two actor's excellent chemistry and personally I don't think they could have cast better performers for both parts.
Jennifer Lawrence and Nicholas Hoult stood out as well and bring good depth to their characters Mystique and Beast.
However there are notable flaws from my view that have to be mentioned - Though I like Rose Byrne as Moira - I'm disappointed in the other X-Men they chose to include in this entry and how they portrayed them - Angel Salvadore a girl who is essentially an over-sized tinker bell - please! I kept waiting for her to whip out her magic wand and pixie dust - Havok and Banshee - poor but tolerable - but what about the character Darwin - boring - and not only that, he just shows up and then they kill him off - why have him in the movie in the first place? - and Azazel and Riptide - come on - when you have so many other better characters from the X-Men roster to choose from? I'm no X-Men historian but wasn't Iceman one of the original founding members?
Kevin Bacon was OK as the villain and the character Emma Frost seemed a bit wasted and fades quickly from the plot but a good solid story and certainly the makings of a good series - overall - well done.
Green Lantern (2011)
not spectacular - but fun entertainment
A weak script and very thin plot make this super hero movie pale in comparison to the others that have come out lately but the special effects and action scenes were enjoyable.
The whole story felt very rushed which makes the characters come off one-dimensional - I must say that despite Ryan Reynolds essentially playing...well...Ryan Reynolds, its tough not to like him - he's just fun to watch on screen. Mark Strong as Sinestro is one of the highlights in the film - and the finale leaves no doubt that he will be back but possibly as one of the bad guys. Peter Sarsgaard's character Hammond was just hammy - his character really became annoying by the end of the movie.
I especially enjoyed the scenes on the far away planet and the Green Lantern Corp. characters - however, if there is another film - hope they will do a better job with getting a more interesting villain.
The moral of the story that someone can face their fears and embrace their destiny is as we all can figure out by now - the main formula in many of the super hero movies and this included but this film only gives us a speedy checkout line version - The Green Lantern doesn't compare with Iron Man or Thor but offers good fun entertainment for a Saturday afternoon.
The Dark Knight (2008)
Unbelievable!
Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" brought a much deserved return of the Caped Crusader that the cinema audiences wanted - true to the material and portraying Batman/Bruce Wayne in the fashion that makes this iconic character so fascinating.
The sequel "The Dark Knight" delves even deeper and the finished product on the screen is - a masterpiece.
The script is outstanding and the action never lets up. Christian Bale proves once again, as Batman, why this series is so good. He brings intensity magnetism and depth to both Bruce Wayne and Batman, and when in the suit, he commands the screen.
In this film we find the criminal underworld still fighting for the reins of Gotham City but this time, from out of the smoke of spitting automatic rifles and greasy, unscrupulous mobsters, comes what will prove to be Gotham's true nightmare.
Heath Ledger as the Joker is unforgettable - his performance is absolutely mesmerizing - he is hilarious and blood-chilling at the same time - I kept saying to myself - "Its not possible that it is Ledger under that make-up." his performance is one of most impressive I have ever seen on screen. I can't imagine what it was like to be one of the other actors and playing a scene on the same set - all the Joker's scenes are incredible - you can't take your eyes off him.
Underneath the primary plot of a story are two determined forces pitted against one another, we are treated to a brilliant illustration of two characters that walk a fine line of being almost the very same product - both created out of some deep-rooted tragic circumstance from a dark past, two tormented souls driven by both power and pain. In the end only one will walk away - but at what cost?
The rest of the cast, notably Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman and Aaron Eckhart - all bring symbolic elements to the story - wisdom, loyalty, dedication, honor and justice - coupled with their own individual, personal drives.
This film is so well done you forget you are watching a comic book super hero flick - this is one of the best movies I have ever seen.
Batman Begins (2005)
Best Batman film to date
Finally a film about Batman that treats the material in the way that it should. Director Christopher Nolan presents the title character in a way that makes all the other film treatments obsolete as far as I'm concerned. An outstanding cast lead by Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne/Batman and supported by an incredible A-Team of performers - Liam Neeson, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman, Cillian Murphy, Rutger Hauer and Tom Wilkinson.
Nolan combines a clever story that embodies all the mystery and circumstances that make up the origins of Batman and the events that lead the Gotham millionaire to become the Caped Crusader. None of the ridiculous camp of the other films - its a well done story that tells of one man's search for answers and his confrontation with his destiny as well as all the action you expect from Batman.
The audience is introduce to Wayne traveling to the mountains of the Himilayas to learn from a mysterious man named Ra's al Ghul where he learns the ways to fight crime - then returns home to the seedy streets and denizens of Gotham City and takes on the powers that have corrupted the city his father crusaded so hard to save.
Its particularly enjoyable seeing how Wayne invents all the gadgets and weapons that make up his arsenal and how he develops the famous suit - but the most fun part was the early version of the Batmobile called the "Tumbler" - an amazing vehicle which is something between a Hummer and a tank - these scenes rumbling down the streets of Gotham and launching into the Batcave are awesome.
Everything that went wrong in the other Batman films are all done wonderfully right in this one - Batman Lives Again!
Iron Man (2008)
One of the best yet from Marvel
With the success of the X-Men and Spiderman, it was inevitable that Marvel would eventually bring Iron Man to the big screen. At first, I envisioned a number of other top flight actors in mind for the part of Tony Stark but Robert Downey Jr. was not only the right choice but proved to be the main reason the film is such a huge hit.
The action scenes are outstanding and the Iron Man suit is very impressive, making all the scenes in the suit worth the price of admission but the script and the performances are the real assets of this film - top rate. The witty and split-second dialogue are perfect for Downey Jr. and he plays it brilliantly - he and Jeff Bridges scenes are especially enjoyable and Bridges holds his own with the humor as well.
*Spolier Alert: The scene where Tony is in his lab, first trying out his technology that will eventually become his suit - is hilarious - his charming relationship with his clumsy but loyal home-built robot assistant is particularly good but the part where, testing the suits thrust boosters, Tony slightly miscalculates and goes flying into the wall gets a laugh from me every time. The rest of the cast is good - Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and Clark Gregg as S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Coulson all give good performances and director Jon Favreau deserves credit for direction, balancing excellent actions sequences with clever humor. This movie rates as one of top entries in the Marvel films - and don't leave until you see the scene after the credits.
Iron Man in the upcoming Avengers movie should be a real treat.
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
Big Green Guy done right this time
When I discovered a new take on the Hulk was coming out, after being painfully disappointed with the Ang Lee version, I hoped for a redeeming treatment of the material. The Hulk is one of Marvels' most enjoyable characters. This version exceeds the other by far. Its much more like the characters and story I remember from the comic book and doesn't take the story in a direction that leaves you scratching your head.
This version is closely tied to the TV series back in the 70's and doesn't try to hide it - the same gamma-ray experiment gone wrong and the same honorable Bruce Banner, forever on the move because he is a danger to all, especially the one's he loves. Edward Norton was very convincing in the role of Banner and just seems to come off more like the character I remember from the comic book. He is certainly more likable and more easily identifiable.
There's no wasted minutes explaining the entire back-story - the opening credits depicted in a montage of clips essentially take care of that detail and much is assumed that the audience is at least somewhat familiar with the character or the TV series. The action scenes are very well done and the final fight scene where the Hulk squares off against the monstrosity known as the "Abomination" is very exciting.
The supporting cast does a commendable job - William Hurt as Gen. Ross and Liv Tyler as Betty do their characters justice - Tim Roth always brings intensity to his roles and this one is no exception, his character Blonsky is supplied by General Ross with an amped-up steroid cocktail known as "super soldier serum" and from then on - the intensity is taken up a few notches to say the least - its definitely there as evidenced by one of his lines - after he has confronted and battled the Hulk twice he is asked by the General - how he feels after recuperating from an almost fatal rumble with the green behemoth "How do you feel?" Blonsky answers "Pissed off...and ready for round three."
I'm personally disappointed that Edward Norton will not return to reprise his role in the upcoming "Avengers" after handling the role so well in this movie, but I'm guessing that we'll be seeing much more screen time with the Big Green Guy in that film anyway. It will be interesting to see how the Hulk character will be involved in that project.
Thor (2011)
Another Marvel gem - THOR a thunderous hit
Yes - it is worthy
After seeing the other Marvel entries, I agreed with many that THOR would be the most difficult to adapt to the big screen and I was hopeful when I heard Kenneth Branagh would be directing, having enjoyed his Shakespeare films in the past and the possibility of lending his classic twist to a popular tale, and now after seeing this film, I am pleased to offer my congrats to Branagh and Marvel for bringing one of my favorite super hero characters to life.
I was anxious and ready for the grand scope of special effects that would carry me across the rainbow bridge to Asgard and to see the Mighty Thor and his warrior companions in action, but I was very pleasantly surprised with the depth of the characters and the impressive performances from the cast.
Aside from Anthony Hopkins and Natalie Portman, the main players are relatively unknown and yet it is these performances that impressed me most. Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston may not be big names now but after this film that could quickly change. Hemsworth and Hiddleston are worth the price of admission alone, the classic sibling rivalry between Thor and Loki is made obvious but not overdone; especially in dialogue but rather skillfully played through body language and facial gestures (always been a firm believer that sometimes the best dialogue is NO dialogue) The action scenes are fantastic but again not overdone - only enough is offered to where you want to see them again.
*SPOILER ALERT - One of the scenes that particularly stood out was - after being cast out of Asgard and banished to Earth, Thor fights off a squad of highly trained G-Men to claim his weapon but when he realizes that he can no longer lift his enchanted hammer he is devastated and the scene hits you full force - Hemsworth nails the scene perfectly and Branagh slam dunks this part of the story most of all, adding a great deal of depth to the lead character - Thor's face reveals the squandered opportunity to prove himself as rightful heir to the Asgardian throne and at the same time a son's inevitable desire for his father's blessing now being forever denied him. I was surprised to see this element so well done in a film of this sort. THOR is good entertainment with a good ensemble of characters and wonderfully brought to life with a good cast.
I look forward to Thor's return.
Mildred Pierce (1945)
Joan Crawford's finest
After establishing herself as a star in Hollywood in the 1930's with films like "Grand Hotel" "Rain" and "Sadie McKee" Joan Crawford began to see her career waning by the early 1940's and she was released by MGM. She signed with Warner Bros. and in 1945 starred in what could possibly be her best film - "Mildred Pierce" in which she won the Oscar for "Best Actress" playing a divorced mother who stops at nothing to provide for her family. The film also includes an outstanding supporting cast including Jack Carson, Zachary Scott, Eve Arden and Ann Blyth as "every mother's nightmare" of a daughter.
Crawford's performance skillfully maneuvers back and forth through the film between the weak, naive mother who refuses to think ill of her spoiled rotten daughter and the hard driven businesswoman who suspects any and everyone, especially the men that she deals with because they have other intentions when they offer up a helping hand to her. Mildred immediately recognizes the men's motives but stubbornly turns a blind eye to her own daughter's selfish demands. The rest of the cast puts in solid performances as well. Jack Carson as the savvy businessman who loves Mildred almost as much as he loves money and tries in vain to win her affections. Zachary Scott as the idle, scheming playboy, who thumbs his nose at the working class and Mildred, behind her back, but doesn't turn down a handout from her. Eve Arden as Mildred's clever best friend and business associate who isn't afraid to speak her mind about Mildred's greedy daughter but is powerless to convince her to put her foot down - and Ann Blyth as Veda, certainly cannot be ignored. She delivers a memorable performance as Mildred's spoiled and uncontrollable offspring.
Directed by Michael Curtiz (Casablanca) and musical score by Max Steiner (Gone with the Wind) "Mildred Pierce" is one of Joan Crawford's finest films.
Spider-Man 3 (2007)
Interesting Twist in the Web
Spider Man 3 takes some different twists and turns. We pick up where we left off from Spider Man 2 where Peter and MJ have decided to give in to their true feelings and take the risks that will no doubt put a great deal of strain on their relationship. We also see the tension still mounting between Peter and Harry. However instead of continuing on the predictable course of a series of scenes with MJ being put in constant peril and Spidey coming to the rescue in the nick of time, we see a much more personal, human culprit begin to undermine the relationship - fame and ego and career struggles and disappointments. All these things are handled in a believable manner but Spider Man 3 suffers from the old case of trying to cram too much into one film in order to top the previous film.
The Sandman character was predictable and boring and the film would have been better off without it. The special effects are very good but the character had very little depth and took up more screen time which could have been put to better use with the Eddie Brock character and the development of Venom. I'm not sure why the film felt it had to put in more story that had to touch on the death of Uncle Ben again, by this time its growing tiresome. The developing triangle that occurs between Peter MJ and Harry is dramatic and well-paced. Sadly the mysterious dark suit that falls from the sky is given no explanation at all. (Unless Venom will make a return in future films and this detail will be thought out a little better).
There's more humor in this movie and it keeps the action from getting over the top - the scenes involving Jonah Jameson and (Bruce Campbell) as the french matre 'd stand out. The scenes where we see the darker side of Peter caused by the suit is well done and his other scenes played for humor were enjoyable. However by the last part of the film the dialogue begins to get very weak - The reporter covering the battle at the end is ridiculous and some of the character of Brock's speaking lines are hard to swallow though I think Grace did a decent job of portraying the cocky photographer.
Overall I enjoyed the movie and though it shows signs of being rushed and again with too many characters, I can't help but feel a certain degree of finality to Spider Man 3. It could very well be the last time with see Tobey Maquire and Kirsten Dunst in the lead roles. If its decided to continue the franchise, it will probably be with different faces, which could mean a slow downward slide of the series. -- I hope not.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
A Will Smith tour de force
I was reluctant about sitting down and watching this film due to the fact that I assumed it would be the usual social injustice and rags to riches movie with all of Hollywood's latest political cliché's that normally come with it, but I came away very impressed and will now put myself into the category of - Will Smith fan.
Smith is one of the actors today that comes off the screen as a natural - making it look easy. His past roles in comedy and action films have not been among my favorites (though I did like "I Robot") because a lot of actors can do the same thing in similar type movies. But in this drama he is absolutely riveting. His performance is not over the top, which it could have been designed that way. Many films of this type do approach it that way in order to bludgeon the movie-goer over the head with its message - but this one does not, which is why it works. Smith handles the drama and tension of a man being pushed to his limits with such sharp subtlety that the emotion builds as the story moves along, that in the end you are right there with him, cheering him on, when all his efforts are finally rewarded.
The scene where he is at the playground with his son with no home to go to is one of many moving scenes but this one particular scene really hit home. I have to include the dialogue - "You got a dream, you gotta protect it. People can't do something themselves, they wanna tell you that you can't do it. You want something? Go get it. Period." The way Smith handles the character of Chris and his problems and endless obstacles with dignity is what stands out the most. It's inspiring, and every scene with him in it is memorable. A possible award winning performance in my opinion.
Star Wars (1977)
The movie that shook the world!
The world of cinema has never been the same since George Lucas brought this film to the screen. It has had more impact on the world than any movie. It has become a living icon of story-telling to an entire generation and since it's release it has been the standard by which all epic blockbuster movies are measured.
The original three films - most often referred to as the "original trilogy" - "Star Wars", "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi" introduced us to a world - "far, far away" but it became the very human element that millions identified with through the classic myth motif. Its images and symbols have bridged across cultures, its characters become house-hold words.
I will never forget the first time I saw the opening frame of the spaceships crossing the screen in the first film and I will never experience another moment in the theatre like I did when in ROTJ, one of cinema's most recognized villains gave up his lust for power, discarded his evil past and once again found compassion through the love of his son who refused to abandon faith in him, to sacrifice himself to save his son and the galaxy. When Vader picked up the Emperor and threw him to his doom to save Luke - the entire theatre that I was sitting in that day, erupted with applause - the sound was deafening and like I have never before since experienced.
George Lucas has given the world of cinema a great gift with his ground-breaking special effects technology and has set free imaginations and inspired countless film-makers since. His company Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) have broaden the scope of film-making to enormous heights, making nothing impossible to be seen on the screen; the boundaries, if any, are limited to only our imaginations.
The Star Wars film saga may be over now, but it will live forever.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Even better than the first Spider Man
Having been a long time fan of Spider Man, I can't help but feel connected to this series. Seeing the web-slinger up on the big screen was a day dream that I indulged in as a kid often enough while reading the comic books. I was thrilled with the first Spider Man film and after seeing this second installment, I'm pleased to say, I'm convinced the Spider Man movies are in good hands.
Spider Man 2 takes the familiar characters and moves them forward in their aspirations and their troubles. This was why Marvel Comics have been so successful over the last thirty years - because they put so much of these human elements in their stories.
Alfred Molina joins the group this time as Dr. Octopus. I have enjoyed Molina's work for a number of years now (mostly British productions) and was glad to see him slated to play Doc Oc. Tobey Maguire instills in the character of Peter Parker very convincingly, the very issues that someone thrust into such a destiny would be faced with, he's just a college kid and still going through the rigors of growing up. I love the scene where he has saved the people on the run-away train from certain destruction and passes out, lying on the floor of the train without his mask, when a bystander says with a tone of astonishment - "He's only a kid." Excellent touch.
This film is not without its flaws - but very few. The scene where Spidey confronts Doc Oc and tells him that he has to destroy his invention for the sake of saving the city and its people, and the Doc simply replies - "Yeah, you're right." is a stretch to say the least (I don't remember Doc Oc necessarily being that compassionate in the comic book - and he always came back to wreak more havoc) But I won't knock the whole film because of this scene - its too well done in all the other areas. The effects are better and the fight scenes exciting and the tension between Peter and Harry grows. And even the Aunt May character continues to develop well in dealing with the loss of her husband. And I can't forget Kirsten Dunst as MJ who struggles with her feelings for Peter - her last line - "Go get'em Tiger is perfect for the set-up for the next film and is a line right out of the comic book. The visuals are the real appeal of this movie but the characters are believable and you identify with them immediately. Can't wait for Spider Man 3.
300 (2006)
Forgettable
90 percent of this film is action and 9 out of the 10 action (battle scenes) are shot with slow motion effect. If you take the slow motion out, this film would have been over in twenty minutes. Which is exactly how long it took me to know that I wouldn't be running out and recommending it to my friends.
Based on the story by comic book famed Frank Miller who penned the brilliant Batman: Dark Knight graphic novel, 300 simply gets bogged down in overlong scenes of impaled soldiers, decapitations, CGI blood spatter and the heavy dose of cinematic machismo. This film is about a battle - that's understood going in, but it provides very little else. The scenes involving the queen Gorgo and the corrupt politician Theron, are done with about as much drama as two teen-agers getting sleazy behind the gym of their high school.
The battle scenes are good but get monotonous very quickly. I personally would have rather enjoyed going to the cinema to see a film treatment of Batman/Dark Knight instead - perhaps one day soon. For the hardcore Miller and comic book fiends, this film I'm sure is right up their alley with its edgy cliché's and filtered photography but most likely this movie will end up in the large crap-pile of movies that couldn't make the step from comic book to big screen because it had nothing to offer other than blood, bronze, hard bodies and firm nipples - of course for many film goers - that's enough. However its a shame that the actors who played the Spartans had to spend so much time in the weight room only to see their efforts wasted on a film that will be forgotten in a few years.
Ghost Rider (2007)
Pathetic
When I saw the trailer for this film last summer, I was convinced that it was going to be another Marvel blockbuster, little did I know that the scenes in the trailer were the best scenes and the only scenes worth watching.
This film is an embarrassment to the other Marvel entries. This movie makes Daredevil and even Elektra look good.
Nicolas Cage tries to be witty and sincere in his performance as Johnny Blaze the Ghost Rider, but comes off looking like something between a cheap Evel Kenievel and Elvis imitator.
Eva Mendes is awful in her role. She's neither convincing as a long lost flame (no pun intended) or a reporter. The young lady who played the younger Roxanne character fared much better. The scene where Blaze chases down Roxanne while she's driving away in the TV van is funny, but when she finally stops jumps out and snaps at him and eventually re-kindles their love life, she only looks like a sassy teenager, I've seen better acting in a high school play. Mendes' best attributes are the pair she wears on her chest, which the director obviously goes to every length to emphasize throughout all her scenes. When was the last time you saw a TV reporter on camera with half her blouse un-buttoned. Nice rack Eva, but you could use some acting lessons.
Sam Elliott puts in a good performance, seems he's making yet another appearance in a Marvel film (as Ross in the Hulk) where he's the only human character worth watching.
By the time Blaze hunts down Mephisto's brat son gone postal, I couldn't wait for this movie to be over.
The scene where Ghost Rider is riding down the side of a skyscraper is the best scene and the only scene worth seeing. Don't waste your money on the DVD when it comes out, just watch the trailer and you'll get the only good scenes of the whole movie.
Hulk (2003)
Hulk come's off pretty small
I hope this entry in the Marvel character films does not prevent someone from bringing back the Hulk in another future movie. The Hulk is too much of a favorite to die off with one bad film.
I give credit to Ang Lee for trying something different and thinking outside the box, but the split screen came off as just being a big distraction - not artistic.
I personally liked most of the scenes with the big green guy, especially the fight scene with the tanks and the one where he's latched on to the F15 jet. But this film tried to go too far into the back story and scientific side of the Bruce Banner character and ended up really bogging down the film.
Good performance: Sam Elliott - this guy can almost bring any film or role some legitimacy. His performance as General Ross really bolsters the latter scenes of the movie when the military is going full force after the Hulk.
Bad performance: Nick Nolte - Nolte looks completely loaded - what did this guy do - throw his script in the crap can, chug a bottle of bourbon in his dressing room and just wing it for the rest of the movie! (sure looks like it) his final scenes are awful.
Please - somebody who knows what they're doing - Bring back the Hulk and do him justice. Maybe a battle with Thor - yeah! I'd pay admission to see that!
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Good action - Average characters - falls short
**This comment will definitely contain a spoiler**
Anxious to see the third installment in the X-Men series I was a bit taken back when I found out it was a clean up and kill it off finale. Though I give the filmmakers credit for boldly taking out some of the main characters which was definitely a surprise, I was disappointed in some of the dialogue, and the storyline looked rushed. I love seeing the Juggernaut (though I was disappointed with his helmet) and Colossus with a larger role (they should have had these two squaring off in the final battle scene) I liked what they did with Mystique's character. Kelsey Grammar did an excellent job of portraying Beast, other good performances - Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Ian McKellen, but overall it lacked the impact of X2.
Again the story and characters looked rushed. If you're going to have lots of characters - then give them substance, don't just have them filling up space. I hope this isn't the end of the X-Men movies. I'm glad to at least hear that they are working on a Wolverine movie and a Magneto movie. And hopefully some of the characters in XMen 3 will show up in future films.
*Don't turn off your DVD's right after the final scene though, watch the big surprise after the credits roll at the end or you won't get the whole picture.
The More the Merrier (1943)
How did this movie slip by me?
After seeing this film for the first time, I'm amazed that after being a classic movie buff for more than twenty years I have never seen it -- I have really missed a treat.
First and foremost is that I have an entirely new admiration for Jean Arthur. I had no idea that she had the range that she does and it shines in this film. Her unique trademark squeaky voice is put to brilliant use in the comedy scenes and her timing is flawless and she's absolutely adorable in the intimate scenes. The camera skillfully brings you up close and Arthur draws you in with her subtle but gripping facial gestures and body language. She's incredible. By the end of this movie - the male viewers will have fallen in love with her.
Not to be overlooked is Joel McCrea's performance. The way he injects many of the scenes of a man who is falling in love and wants to show his feelings but with a realistic view of the the "game of love" and its unwritten rules. His downtrodden "Yeah so what about the rules" style plays perfectly with Arthur's love sick but reluctant career girl. The chemistry that emerges between them is unforgettable.
Charles Coburn's performance cannot be ignored either. I had never seen him pull off such zany comedy before and he's hilarious.
The only movies that I had seen Jean Arthur in prior to this one was "Shane" and of course "Mr. Smith Goes To Washington" but after seeing this gem, I have made more attempts to watch out for her other movies when they come on TV. She's made a new fan and "The More the Merrier" will soon be in my personal collection.
Hellboy (2004)
What the Hell
After seeing this movie during its initial release I remember leaving the theatre feeling that I had gotten my money's worth of entertainment for the day but not as thrilled as I did after seeing X-Men and Spiderman. Remembering it as being a bit campy but fun, I assumed it would inevitably fall into that ever-increasing pile of Saturday matinée adventures that would eventually fade and ultimately be forgotten from that enormous movie data bank in my head. But since that first viewing at the cinema, I have seen it a few times on TV and I have come to the conclusion that I really like this campy, fun movie. I find myself stopping to watch a few scenes while surfing the channels on TV and keep getting caught watching it, like a ten year old, sneaking into the theatre.
Ron Perlman is great and his performance is what carries the film. I love the way he delivers the comic book style dialogue and one-liners. I particularly like the time period the story is set in and the cinematography. Awe hell...I'm going to get the DVD.
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Back when Disney had true Magic
Just recently I was given the DVD of Lady and the Tramp. The one and only time that I had seen this movie was when I was a kid, and had not seen it since. As a kid, I was like a lot of other kids in that anything that resembled a cartoon, immediately got my attention. I remember seeing this movie years ago and being thrilled by the fun and humor of its characters.
Now I for one do not make a regular practice of collecting children's movies and the main reason for that is because of the consistent disappointments that have come from the Disney studios in the past several years. I have never subscribed to the idea that adults can't enjoy an animated feature because its a cartoon -- and that children can not appreciate a good simple live action feature film. But much like feature films with real actors, the animated entries have also gone by the formula that - special effects is everything - this I do not subscribed to at all.
Though the recent features that have come from Disney have been turned over to CGI experts and the work that goes into these animated films are a feat in itself, many of them still lack the simple ingredient of charm and beauty that Lady and the Tramp has.
For the first time in over thirty years I watched this movie and was stunned that it still had the same effect on me. I'm grateful that in all the years of living in the cynical world of adults, it has not tainted my appreciation for something simple and beautiful - the very elements that kids eyes see the world through. The wonderful Italian café "bella notte" scene is still magical, and much to my surprise I actually hear adults still talk about that scene and almost blush -- "It's so romantic." (the most talk-about scene in a Disney film next to perhaps the scene in Dumbo or Bambi) and I do not know of any adult who has seen this film recently or since childhood that can sit through it and not be touched by it.
Today's animated features are chocked full of digital wizardry and voiced by multi-millionaire movie stars. It seems that half the intent for these film makers are - trying to put as many box office stars voices in one film. They're not focusing on entertaining the kids but rather impressing the kids' parents, with special effects and having them play the game of guessing they're favorite film stars voices.
Lady and Tramp is a testimonial for good, fun entertainment that can come from a talented group of artists, animators, voice actors and script writers, in the what would now be called the - "old way."
If these kinds of kids movies are indeed a "time piece" and now considered a "thing of the past" then its sad that the film industry has lost sight of what's good entertainment for kids. And if children these days have become so high-tech like the rest of our world that sitting down and watching a CGI-less cartoon is not visually stimulating enough, than as several people including some fellow-commentors say - "the good ol' days are gone." and they truly "don't make them like they used to."
The Sea Hawk (1940)
Another Errol Flynn Triumph
The more I watch these gems over the years, the more I am convinced that Errol Flynn has no equal in this favorite of movie genre's. It makes me appreciate just how skilled Flynn was, and how he made it look so easy. As with "The Adventures of Robin Hood," the Sea Hawk is another great adventure film that has set the standard by which all adventure films are compared. Is it any wonder that these films are still entertaining audiences after more than half a century.
I wonder if Flynn ever imagined that he would inspire generations of youngsters all over the world to set off on their own adventures with homemade paper hats secured to their heads, cardboard broadswords in hand and bow and arrows made out of kite string and one of the tree branches from the back yard strapped to their backs, ready to take on the evil-doers of the neighborhood.
With another flawless cast including Claude Rains, Flora Robson and Henry Daniell, this swashbuckler continues to captivate audiences and endure the test of time. Loaded with non-stop action, romance and terrific sea battles, this is one of the films that has it all.
A Christmas Carol (1938)
2nd best version
This was the first film version that I saw of this timeless story, and has always been a sentimental favorite. The sets are beautiful and take full advantage of the black and white cinematography and the special effects were well done for its time.
Its the best film version for young people who are first being introduced to this classic tale, like it was for me some thirty years ago. (especially for American audiences) The dialogue is simplified by taking the edge off some of the Victorian vocabulary and the story is condensed for younger viewers with shorter attention spans.
In comparison to the 1951 British version starring Alastair Sim (the best film version in my opinion), which delves deeper into the character of Scrooge in his younger years and what made him the mean, miserly old man that he was destined to be, this film treatment shows a less complex characterization of the man who thinks Christmas is "a time for fools" and the overall film presents a more cozier, light-hearted approach to the story.
Reginald Owen plays the old miser in a way that many viewers will identify with that grumpy, miserable grandfather or uncle that's always in a bad mood. (Every family has one) And for film buffs - look out for young June Lockhart (who for many will forever be remembered for portraying the mother on the TV show - Lost In Space) playing one of the Cratchit children...and who's real father Gene Lockhart is playing her father Bob Cratchit in the film.
This film version offers a lot of good visuals which I will personally always link to the story even as I read the book again and again. Like the scene where Scrooge is flying over Victorian London with the Spirit of Christmas Past.
Watching this film and the 1951 film as well, has become as much a holiday tradition for me as Chritmas tree lights and egg nog.
Reign of Fire (2002)
Mildly Entertaining
When it comes to fantasy/sci-fi type films, there's many different takes on the subject matter. How much of it is believable, how much is too over the top. How effective are the visual effects used and whether the material is taken too seriously or played for jokes.
My personal approach to this particular genre is:
-Do the actors do credit to their roles
_Are we looking at nothing but 2 hours of special effects or is their actually something called a "story" involved.
_Is it entertaining.
These three guidelines, if you will, is how I measure A good film from a bad one. The last one being the real deciding factor.
"Reign of Fire" has many flaws, details are obviously overlooked that could have been explained with better screenwriting, but despite this, the movie is still entertaining. I preferred Christian Bale's performance over Matthew McConauhey's, personally it was more believable, but it doesn't harm the film to the point where I can't still enjoy it. The scenes with the dragons were well done, especially the scene with a whole flock of them circling London, another, when it's perched on the old castle. The plot wasn't very detailed or thought out. But it had enough to keep some interest. I agree with some other commenters that the dragon was taken out a bit too soon, but was relieved that it did not stay around too long and keep coming after them no matter how many shots it had taken.(It's not a cyborg). One of the better aspects of this film was the feeling of suspense that builds when anticipating the arrival of the dragon(s).
Overall it was entertaining and I refuse to pick it apart with alot of details. It's a fantasy story. I leave that critique to the dramas and action films. Good film for the monster lovers and not a bad flick for a Saturday afternoon at the movies.