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Mike_Fen
Reviews
Man of Steel (2013)
You Won't Care A Man Can Fly...
Superman...
Superman is a iconic character that connects with people all over the world. He transcends generations, nationalities, race, etc. This is because Superman has always been about more than what he can physically do. Sure we all wish we could do things beyond our normal capabilities. That's why, since the dawn of time, we've been fascinated by characters that were more than mere mortals. But Like most great heroes - real and fictitious - Superman connects with people because of who he represents. He is what we all want to be. Christopher Reeve said it best when he said Superman was a friend you can count on in the time of need.
Unfortunately, this new reinvention seems to lose sight of that.
The film opens on Krypton, where we learn the , now familiar, history of Kal El's (Superman) origin. Krypton is depicted as a modern, yet medieval society. At least the portion of Krypton we see. It is a starch departure from the previous incarnations, and it isn't bad. Kryptonian people are depicted as stubborn, methodical, but all too human. Not too different from our own society, or at least, what our society can become in the near future. Jor El, played by Russel Crowe, and Lara (Avalet Zurer) are among the most human. Their love, compassion, and emotions are brilliantly conveyed. Although I was not a huge fan of the overall look, I have no actual complaints about this chapter in the film.
After Krypton's demise, we reach Earth. Here we meet, an all grown up, Clark Kent. Henry Cavill delivers a great performance as our beloved, Clark Kent/Superman and really has the look to fit the role. The relationship between Clark and his parent, Jonathan (Kevin Costner)& Martha (Diane Lane) Kent is, perhaps, the strongest aspect of this film.
Kevin and Diane give us true-to-life, real, depictions of Ma and Pa Kent. Kevin's portrayal of Pa Kent could be his strongest in recent years. This is because the "family" portions of this film (both on Earth and Krypton) were something the audience could connect with. Unfortunately, there wasn't enough of that.
As we continue the story, Clark is wandering the globe looking for his true self. We see hints that he never quite fit in, and has always been the outsider. He has great abilities, and knows that he's ultimately "not from around here," but doesn't know exactly where he's from. He stumbles upon an old (thousands of years) craft - which really doesn't make sense after you watch the film - and with the aid of an - "newer- yet-still compatible" - alien "USB" drive, he discovers that he was born Kal El, on the planet Krypton.
We hardly get a chance to get to know this new Clark Kent. We understand that he was lonesome and curious to find out his true identity, but upon becoming Superman, we're immediately thrown into battle. "He's just Superman now, so he's gonna fight the bad guy," seems to be the general attitude of the film. What happened to the baby steps. No bank robbers? Nope, straight into the fire.
General Zod (Michael Shannon)comes to Earth to seek revenge for his imprisonment. In the process, he wishes to "renovate" the planet - which would destroy life as we know it - and make this his new home. Shannon's portrayal of Zod is brilliant. Once again, we connect with his humanity. So far, at this point the film still had me. Unfortunately, director Zack Snyder, lost sight of the characters beyond this point and took a page out of Michael Bay's "Guide to Making Things Big."
After a very brief encounter with Zod and his crew, we are bombarded by non-stop action. unlike Marvel's "The Avengers,' this non-stop action was exhausting. Superman seems to have too many problems to face. The scale of destruction and devastation makes 9/11 look like a fender- bender.
Most of us can remember how devastating 9/11 was, not only to the US, but how it impacted, and continues on to impact, the rest of the world. For a director to completely ignore that and depict, all to real, destruction, and then patch it up with a short tie-in, "fix-all", scene (where Clark rides a bike to work while wearing his iconic glasses, and things are back to normal) is a far reach from realism.
Superman in this film departs from everything his family (Krypton and Earth) taught him. He goes around the city in a fit of rage, blinded by stopping Zod, rather than saving the planet. Sure he saves it in the process, but at what cost? What the film gets right is the characters, but then chooses to trade that in for action. You have a chance to make a great movie, but instead you cater to the lowest common denominator, and you get ticket-box fodder.
Over all this film is not bad. With poor directing decisions, over the top action, and a huge sense of entitlement, this film is more of a let down than anything else. It seems like it was written in three isolated acts. Act three, completely disregards the characters as people and focuses on "supermonster beings' trying to destroy each other. Gone are the days of majesty, adventure, hope and child-like wonder that were once associated with Superman.
All in all, not a bad movie, but I wouldn't take my six year-old to see it. Kind of defeats the purpose of a Superman movie, doesn't it?
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
A Captivating Story
At first glance, tis may seem like your typical "Tale-from-the-past" story. You've got Morgan Freeman narrating a a story, so it's got to be good right? Well, the truth is, it is. Reluctant at first, I was swiftly charmed by this story of mans struggle with life's cruelty. Tim Robbin's Character simply gets pummeled by life, but continues to keep his mind set on the hope. It's this message that captivated me. Despite the typical fairytale ending, it's the journey to that ending that makes this film great.
The characters, have to face some of the hardest obstacles that life could throw at one person. Yet, despite the odds, they somehow are able to not only enjoy what little glimmer of light they have, but keep hope alive. This is something that was genuinely charming about this film. In today's cynical society, a reminder of hope, and the reassurance that some times, the good guy does pull it off, is something many movies lack.
Now, the film itself isn't bright or happy, in fact it's the complete opposite. Dark lighting, tight shots, and rough settings are what give the film it's harsh reminder that life isn't just a walk in the park. But with charming, lovable characters, and novel-like writing give this film a balance that simply makes it irresistible.
This film is a must see classic. Has very mature content, not suitable for children.
The Karate Kid (2010)
A nod to the original, but a stand alone title.
"The Karate Kid" was surprisingly original. 2010's Karate Kid, or "Kung Fu Kid" (as it should have been called), is a charming story of a young boys journey half-way across the world and his struggles to acclimate himself to a new start in a world he does not know. Although the title refers to Karate (a style of martial arts that traces its roots to Japan), Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) actually learns a variant of Kung Fu. In fact, there is no reference to karate at all in the movie, except for a brief line by Dre's mother (who is corrected by Dre) and by television show the Dre watches (showing martial artist with while kimono style gees and black belts similar to those worn by Daniel in the original Karate Kid movie).
Aside from the obvious ( the title), which was used to connect the franchise, this film tells a similar, but completely different story. The characters are recreated with different back stories, different challenges, and different motivations. The story itself, although hinting in subtle nods to the original, presents itself as a stand alone story. In fact, unless you consciously choose to link it to the past films, the film could be seen as completely different franchise.
The acting in the film is very good. It is difficult to judge child actors, because most of them haven't developed a true understanding of what they are actually doing (with the exception of those who have an unnatural talent for this art). With that said, the acting is very strong. The children (most of the main cast, at least)show enough emotion and connection to the characters that allows the audience to empathize and relate to them. They show much promise for the future, and quite frankly can out act many adult actors around today - have a seat Mr. Tatum, the kids will take it from here.
All in all, it is a very entertaining film, fun for young and old. Despite the misnomer, it is worthy of baring the franchise's cherished title.
Swooped: Based on a Real Life Occurrence (2011)
Mildly Enjoyable
As a movie buff, I often stray away from the Hollywood, big picture in search for diamonds in the rough. The independent film market often offers a plethora of genres, styles, and unique stories that can tickle anyone's fancy. "Swooped Based on a Real Life Occurrence," or "Swooped," for short, is definitely not that diamond I often look for.
Giving credits to the filmmaker, who from the looks of the production, didn't seem to have much of a budget, the final product is definitely respectable. Give or take a few sound glitches, uninspired sets, and all but creative camera work, the film looks fairly decent.
The story itself leaves room for questions. Perhaps it would have done better as a short, as the film itself could stand to lose a few pounds of un-contributing fat. There are isolated moments that are very entertaining, but the over all story seems to be lacking a purpose. There is no message to the film (not that every film should have one, but even "American Pie" has a hint of a message ), and the jokes seem a bit forced and repetitive. The cast was adequate to portray the very simple and somewhat hollow characters. There is nothing truly captivating about the main characters in the film, which once again brings the question of whether it would serve best as a short.
Overall its a movie that would be best enjoyed after a few drinks among friends. Not a movie that lends itself to be remembered, but better than many I've seen.
The Messenger (2009)
A gripping look into the sometimes forgotten side of the armed forces.
"The Messenger" is an emotionally captivating story. From the very beginning, the look of the film makes you question what the movie is really about. A bit slow in the beginning, the movie begins to wrap you up in curiosity and then takes you out into the troubles of what it is like for a soldier to re-acclimate him/herself to society after a tour of duty; all while serving the last few months of service in the Casualty Notification Team.
We follow the main characters journey back into society and get a first hand view at the parallels that are often overlooked by people who are not in direct contact with military personnel. The characters are charming, down to earth, and completely relatable. You don't have to have served in the military to understand the struggles, both internal and external, that our protagonist faces. The supporting cast does a great job of portraying everyday folks who could be anyone and everyone. The dialogue and story, combined with simple, yet artistic camera work, make this story truly enthralling.
"The Messenger" is a great film that everyone should watch.
The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
A journey into the world of childhood adventures
If you were ever a fan of the "Tintin" stories, and the "The Adventures of Tintin" television show, this movie will be sure to captivate you. "The Adventures of Tintin" takes a page right out of the popular stories I grew up loving and revamped it for a new generation.
Tintin's portrayal was great; staying true to the history of the character. The story itself was as enthralling as a Tintin mystery get. The look and feel of the movie really made it feel like you were riding along wiht him. Realistic enough to be taken seriously, but close enough to the cartoon and television characters that you almost didn't notice the changes in appearance.
This is a film that young and old would enjoy. Younger kids may need to watch this film with an adult or someone older as the film can get a bit dark at times. Over all, it's a great film and fun for the whole family.
Real Steel (2011)
Rocky with Robots
It is clear that this film was targeting a younger demographic. The plot is very simple and the characters are straight forward and cliché. You will not be thinking throughout much of this movie, and perhaps that's exactly what makes it fun to watch. Rock'em Sock'em Robots reenacting "Rocky."
The graphics are pretty neat and the film has a good pace to it. Its the type of movie you would enjoy watching with your kids. If you're looking for moving plots and unique storytelling, this is not your movie; bu if you're just looking to sit back and unwind for a bit with family and friends it's right up your alley.
All in all, not a bad movie.
Bridesmaids (2011)
Downright Awkward
Marketed as a female version of " The Hangover," "Bridesmaids" is far in comparison. ON the one hand you have a movie about four friends who drink themselves into the most elaborate, dangerous, and hilarious situations; all while completely unaware of what is occurring. Then you have "Bridesmaids."
Where do we begin? From the beginning of the film you just feel bad for the main character. You watch her daily routine and social interactions like a fly in the wall and just feel... awkward. It's awkward, because you almost feel embarrassed for her. Kristen Wiig's character is bitter and unpleasant and never lends herself to be liked. Even when you feel bad for her, it's hard to sympathize because her problems stem off of her simply unlikable personality. She finds herself in awkward situations that are simply the result of her own bitterness.
Thefilm does lend itself to some isolated laughs, with several "caricature" characters that lighten up the awkward, distilled, feeling that is the rest of the film. THe most likable role is played by actor Chris O'Dowd, and you honestly feel bad for him. He's a genuinely nice guy who once again falls victim to the main character's bitter nature. The isolated comedy, comedic characters, and O'Dowd's character are the only things that saved this film from being completely terrible.
If you like "The Hangover" and "Wedding Crashers" do not expect the same out of "Bridesmaides."
21 Jump Street (2012)
Falling far from the proverbial tree.
"21 Jump Street," was a popular show in late 80s and early 90s. Although the characters on the show were young looking enough to pass for high school students, the tone of the show was serious; often dealing with real-life issues. Fast forward to 2012, and you get a parody of a, one- time, praised show. Much like Seth Rogans twist on "green Hornet," 2012's "21 Jump Street" opted to make a mockery of the original work Intentional or not, the parodying of cult classic is becoming more and more unsettling.
As a stand alone film, this movie was not terrible. It has good use of slapstick and scatological humor, and despite having the emotional acting range of a dried up cactus, Channing Tatum's character is comedic. Perhaps this film should have gone by a different title. "Underclassmen 2," as it more closely resembled the lack-luster comedy "Underclassmen," starring Nick Cannon. With so many title featuring young, child, or teenage cops, you expect at least a refreshing title to go along with the already unoriginal film.
Overall, it was not terrible, but don't expect anything that really ties it back to the show.
American Reunion (2012)
A funny trip to where it all began!
Throughout the year the American Pie franchise has dished out several sequels and spin offs. Most of these films were entertaining, but failed to compare with the original.After a while it became evident that the franchise was concerned with prolonging the inevitable fading of the original title. This is where American Reunion differed from all the rest.
American Reunion serves as a stand alone film, worthy of its accolades. This film was able to bridge the gap back to the first film, while borrowing and indirectly implying to the events that occurred in the previous sequels; all while remaining its own film. One could have never seen any of the other films, including the original, to understand and appreciate the story, characters, and humor of the film.
It was pleasing to see the original characters, as well as, other minor roles that made the films memorable. American Reunion is, as its title implies, a reunion with a lost art. The teen comedy at its finest. Overall, it was like reuniting with old friends and picking up where you last left off. It is worth watching, even if you haven't seen the original.