Hancock - ** 1/2
A different take on the (anti) superhero film, but lacks any distinct vision that sets it apart from any other wanna-be summer blockbuster (but it does have Jason Bateman, which counts for an extra 1/2 star). It's loud with lots of effects and very little story. If you like either of the Fantastic Four films, you'll be okay with this.
A Star Is Born (1954) - ** 1/2
The Invincible Iron Man - ** 1/2
Close Encounters of the Third Kind - ***1/2
Always in contention for 2nd place in the list of my favorite Spielberg films (Raiders will forever be #1). It has those great Spielberg moments, which somehow got lost after he did "The Color Purple."
Rain Man - ***1/2
After his underappreciated role as Vincent in "The Color of Money", Tom Cruise really started to bridge the gap between 'Hollywood's "It" Kid' and serious film actor with his portrayal of Charlie in this film. Hoffman's performance stole all the attention but Cruise's ability to hold each and every scene with the veteran actor showed real promise which he followed up with an Oscar nominated role in "Born on the Fourth of July" the following year. It's this Jerry Maguire/Collateral/Magnolia Tom Cruise I love to watch.
The Last Picture Show - ***1/2
The Mummy: Curse of the Emperor's Tomb - *
The Goodbye Girl - ***
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian - **
Kissing A Fool - **1/2+
The dreaded decision to go for the "average" 2 1/2 stars or "quite good" three stars. Is this film as good as the three stars "The Goodbye Girl?" No. Is it as disappointing as the big budget "Hancock?" No. So where does a film like this fit in. It's a charming romantic comedy with a great cast. The script has a few contrived twists that don't really fit but it's a very identifiable story for anyone who's been in a whirlwind relationship. Basically, a poor man's (yet more 'glossy') CHASING AMY.
The Lady Eve - ***
This is an enjoyable Preston Surges comedy with Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda.
My Favorite Blonde - **1/2
A 'road' picture with Bob Hope without Bing Crosby (well, almost). Hope's comedic timing is still ahead of its time and I doubt his audience will ever really catch up to him. He is a true legend in an enjoyable film for all ages.
Nothing Sacred - **
I've been cinematically spoiled since college. Seeing every film in (mostly) pristine 16mm projection, with several prints coming from private vaults across the country, I've seen rare films in conditions that met or exceeded any expectations I had about seeing "old" movies. I know I'm spoiled because I found myself very nearly unable to enjoy this Carol Lombard comedy satire because the DVD transfer was abhorrent. Seriously, it's the worst I've ever seen and that's counting any of those found in the dollar bins at the grocery store. This film deserves better treatment than this. Granted, this was a non-anamorphic transfer blown up on a 100-inch screen. If you watched this on any "standard" TV set, it may not appear as bad but I found it nearly unwatchable. Nearly, because Carol Lombard is worth watching in a film no matter its condition. I just hope this film find a proper release someday.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone - ***
This is a great beginning to what’s become, to nobody’s surprise, a lucrative franchise for WB. The cast is perfect.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - **1/2
When watched consecutively after the first film, it seems to repeat itself a bit too much. Still, a lot of fun.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - ***1/2
I'm giving this an extra 1/2 star over the rest of the 1st five films as I found this the most visually interesting film of the first five releases.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - ***
(A/K/A Harry Potter goes to Shermer High School) Even with it's John Hughes teen themes, the cast continues to grow and develop their characters with a helpful script that makes this journey into adulthood a treat. Emma Watson (Hermione) really stands out here and I'm looking forward to seeing more of her work outside of this franchise. However, with all the teen hormones raging, Harry's central storyline gets cast to the side in favor of a Hogwart's Olympics, which only at the end provides us with what we really want--more Ralph! I mean, Lord Voldemort!
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - ***
This film continues to uphold what we expect from a Harry Potter film but doesn't separate itself visually like 'Azkaban' does. However, WB had enough faith in director David Yates's vision to give him the rains to this film as well as the rest of the films in the series. As capable director as he is, I feel this is a mistake as, unless he consciously makes the decision to differ them visually, the films will start to blend over time, especially when viewed in succession. Imagine Danny Boyle, Guillermo del Toro or (gulp) Michael Bay directing. I'm just saying, I disagree with going with the same director for 4 of the 8 films in the series.
Texasville - ***
Great when seen shortly after "The Last Picture Show" as it really gives you extra depth after seeing how these characters turned out. If you were to see it without knowing it was a sequel, it wouldn't make much sense, but still an interesting character film. I'm not sure why Chloris Leachman's and Timothy Bottom's character's were cast aside to much smaller roles as their story was my favorite from the previous film. One figures because Jeff Bridges became much more successful as there's no reason other than money to deny these great characters (and actors) another chance to shine.
Being John Malkovich - ***1/2
I forever became a Charlie Kaufman fan after seeing this film. Much of the focus upon it’s initial release was given to director Spike Jones for the originality of this film, but time has shown us it was its writer who had the true vision.
The Hunt for Red October - ***
Was Alec Baldwin really ever that young?! He shows great promise as an anti-action hero in this highly suspenseful and well-produced film. Watch on a good home theatre system as its effects really shine in this Oscar winner for Best Effects and Sound Effects Editing.
Patriot Games - **1/2
Harrison Ford replaces Alec Baldwin in this follow-up in the Jack Ryan series. It's worth seeing as it solidified Ford's stance as action hero, even without a blaster or whip at his side.
A Clear and Present Danger - **1/2
Too long for its own good, this third film in the Jack Ryan series has Ford reprising the role in standard summer action fare. It was, however, fun to see how clunky and low-tech all the "high-end" computers were. Ah, technology, we barely know ye.
Watchmen - ***
Having not read the graphic novel in over a decade, I barely remember what this film was supposed to be about other than superheroes aren't appreciated in this alternate 1985 universe. As an adaptation, I'd like to revisit the novel to get a real sense of what it did or did not accomplish, however, as a film on it's own, if you're not familiar with its historical significance in the comic book world, this films is a well-produced, but much too long superhero film. Jackie Earle Haley and Patrick Wilson stand out as the better performances. Director Zack Snyder does have some great visuals and would be a great candidate for a (much different) Harry Potter movie.
The Fugitive - ***1/2
Now *this* is a non-Indy Harrison Ford film to which you can be proud of being a fan. Wonderfully paced action film that lures you in from the start and never lets go. This film was nominated for a well-deserved seven Academy Awards (sadly winning only one for Tommy Lee Jones as Supporting Actor). Director Andrew Davis must have had lighting in a bottle for this film only as his career has yet to prove anything as worthy of mention.
Also, as of this writing, WB is planning on remaking this. This is why the recession is bad.
Schindler's List - ****
While it doesn't fit in the same style of what I love about Spielberg, it shows he's a fantastic director without his standard Spielbergism's. I think it's an amazing film, which comes dangerously close to making you think it's a documentary, in the sense that you really lose focus that it's a film with actors, props and sets. A must-see for everyone and should be seen on the biggest screen you to which you have access.
Jurassic Park - ***
At the polar opposite end of the film spectrum from Schindler's List, Jurassic Park demonstrates the trademarks of camera movement and lighting of the Spielberg to which I am the biggest fan. This is all fun and gags and is one long amusement ride, which is well worth the price of admission.
Saving Private Ryan - ***
The first half-hour is probably my favorite 30 minutes of film footage ever. The DTS mix causes my sound system to weep with pleasure. I cannot comprehend the amount of work put in to make D-Day look so real. However, the film doesn't have the character development needed to match those 30 minutes on Normandy thus I slowly lost my interest slowly as the film progressed. Production-wise, it's really fantastic, but it's over-hyped as a great film. Still, it should be standard annual viewing on Veteran's and/or Memorial Day for its incredible realistic portrayal of battle. (suggested viewing -- HBO's "Band of Brothers" is a great compliment to this film)
Thoroughly Modern Millie - *
This film is thoroughly ridiculous on every level and I can only recommend if you're really into production design and wardrobe. How can a "musical" have so few songs yet be so long? What an awful film for Julie Andrews to have following "Mary Poppins" and "The Sound of Music."
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
February Screenings
Home Alone - ****
A Personal favorite of mine since it's theatrical release and second only to A CHRISTMAS STORY as my favorite holiday film.
Annie - **1/2
The films is great until Annie gets out of the orphanage and involved in Oliver Warbucks life. Annie should have stayed with Carol Burnett and kept the cycle repeating (you think it's coincidence Annie and Miss Hannigan both have red hair?!).
Beauty and the Beast (Disney) - ****
Tied with FORREST GUMP as the only film I've seen in the theatre four times on it's first-run release. My favorite Disney animated film followed *very* closely by THE LITTLE MERMAID.
The Duchess - ***
Ralph Fiennes raises this film from another ho-hum period piece to something much more fun to watch. His presence is felt even when he's off screen (which is most of the film) and I think the supporting actor nomination snub was one of the year's worst.
Main in Manhattan - ***
Speaking of Ralph, after watching THE DUCHESS, I had to give this film another screening and I found it quite charming. It's often too "cute" but it reminded me why I liked Jennifer Lopez as an actress after seeing her in OUT OF SIGHT. Yes, it's the Latin 'Pretty Woman' trading the hooker role for one as a maid, but it still works fine.
Finding Neverland - ****
Again, the Peter Pan story is one of my favorites and this take is nothing but breathtaking. I must-see for kids and adults as it reminds us the joy storytelling can bring, no matter what form it takes.
Gran Torino - ***
Angry Clint Eastwood takes on a gang. No surprises here and for all it's plot elements you can see a mile away, it's still entertaining and worth seeing.
Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway - ****
This has been the greatest thing I've screening in a long, long time. I *loved* finally seeing a version of rent performed on the stage. I hope for a day when all Broadway shows can reach a wide audience via DVD or on-demand or whatever form home entertainment takes in the future.
Another Country - **1/2
A decent film about a gay teen dealing with issues of class and society in a predominant British high school. Think 'gay Harry Potter sans the magic'. Fun to see a very young Rupert Everett and Colin Firth.
Milk - ***
Moves above standard bio fare with a remarkable performance from Sean Penn. I didn't quite see the hype in many of the other performances often mentioned during award season, especially Josh Brolin's, but I think his nomination for supporting actor was a correction for his not being nominated for "No Country for Old Men" in which he created a much more realized and intriguing character.
Doubt - ***1/2
So far, it's been my favorite "award season" film. Fantastic performances by Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams. And speaking of 'awards,' as fantastic as the scene between Viola Davis and Meryl Streep is, I'm not a fan of people being nominated for l or 2 scenes with a screen time of under 10 minutes. It's a great 10 minutes, don't get me wrong, but I couldn't help but feel like it was more like a clip from her acting reel and I was reminded of the scene in 'Austin Powers' when Austin was crying and underneath was the Chyron "Oscar scene" or something to that effect. As crucial as the scene is to the plot of the film, it was overdone and distracting from the subtle nuances of the performances which had preceeded it. I can't fault the actress for milking the scene as that's the only one she had, but the director should have known to keep it on the same tone as the other actor's.
The Wrestler - ***
A great character study and truly underrated film. Yes, Rourke wasn't underrated during award season but, although she received the Supporting Actress nod, Marisa Tomei deserved more as she brings so much depth to her character than most other actresses would have given this role. She's the antithesis of the Julia Roberts PRETTY WOMAN 'hooker with the heart of gold' yet you root for her just as much. It's not an easy film to watch as it's a cold film. Cold weather, cold characters and a cold hard life. However, Rourke's performance will have you cheering for him the entire time.
Also, on a personal note, it was bittersweet to see Rourke get all the "comeback" attention he did for this film when I was praising his return three years ago after seeing SIN CITY. You want to watch a truly unrecognizable Rourke in a fantastic role unlike any you've seen, then please see SIN CITY.
Scrooged - ***
I've loved this film since it's original release and I cannot find a reason why I haven't bought this DVD until now. It will forever be a favorite holiday film, not quite in the league of HOME ALONE or A CHRISTMAS STORY, but it's something you can watch if you're with the Scrooges you know who don't want to watch anything "sappy." Bobcat Goldthwait is a real joy to watch in this film and Bill Murray's performance can be enjoyed on so many levels. His scenes with Carol Kane rank as one of my favorite pairings ever to grace the screen.
The Reader - ***
I liked this film, especially Kate Winslet's Oscar-winning performance, but... I doubt it will stand the test of time other than being known as the film which finally brought Ms. Winslet her Oscar.
Caddyshack - ***
A timeless classic that still holds up, at least for me, nearly 30 years after its initial release. It's one of those films where, depending on the circles you hang in, nearly every line is quotable and immediately recognized.
A Personal favorite of mine since it's theatrical release and second only to A CHRISTMAS STORY as my favorite holiday film.
Annie - **1/2
The films is great until Annie gets out of the orphanage and involved in Oliver Warbucks life. Annie should have stayed with Carol Burnett and kept the cycle repeating (you think it's coincidence Annie and Miss Hannigan both have red hair?!).
Beauty and the Beast (Disney) - ****
Tied with FORREST GUMP as the only film I've seen in the theatre four times on it's first-run release. My favorite Disney animated film followed *very* closely by THE LITTLE MERMAID.
The Duchess - ***
Ralph Fiennes raises this film from another ho-hum period piece to something much more fun to watch. His presence is felt even when he's off screen (which is most of the film) and I think the supporting actor nomination snub was one of the year's worst.
Main in Manhattan - ***
Speaking of Ralph, after watching THE DUCHESS, I had to give this film another screening and I found it quite charming. It's often too "cute" but it reminded me why I liked Jennifer Lopez as an actress after seeing her in OUT OF SIGHT. Yes, it's the Latin 'Pretty Woman' trading the hooker role for one as a maid, but it still works fine.
Finding Neverland - ****
Again, the Peter Pan story is one of my favorites and this take is nothing but breathtaking. I must-see for kids and adults as it reminds us the joy storytelling can bring, no matter what form it takes.
Gran Torino - ***
Angry Clint Eastwood takes on a gang. No surprises here and for all it's plot elements you can see a mile away, it's still entertaining and worth seeing.
Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway - ****
This has been the greatest thing I've screening in a long, long time. I *loved* finally seeing a version of rent performed on the stage. I hope for a day when all Broadway shows can reach a wide audience via DVD or on-demand or whatever form home entertainment takes in the future.
Another Country - **1/2
A decent film about a gay teen dealing with issues of class and society in a predominant British high school. Think 'gay Harry Potter sans the magic'. Fun to see a very young Rupert Everett and Colin Firth.
Milk - ***
Moves above standard bio fare with a remarkable performance from Sean Penn. I didn't quite see the hype in many of the other performances often mentioned during award season, especially Josh Brolin's, but I think his nomination for supporting actor was a correction for his not being nominated for "No Country for Old Men" in which he created a much more realized and intriguing character.
Doubt - ***1/2
So far, it's been my favorite "award season" film. Fantastic performances by Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams. And speaking of 'awards,' as fantastic as the scene between Viola Davis and Meryl Streep is, I'm not a fan of people being nominated for l or 2 scenes with a screen time of under 10 minutes. It's a great 10 minutes, don't get me wrong, but I couldn't help but feel like it was more like a clip from her acting reel and I was reminded of the scene in 'Austin Powers' when Austin was crying and underneath was the Chyron "Oscar scene" or something to that effect. As crucial as the scene is to the plot of the film, it was overdone and distracting from the subtle nuances of the performances which had preceeded it. I can't fault the actress for milking the scene as that's the only one she had, but the director should have known to keep it on the same tone as the other actor's.
The Wrestler - ***
A great character study and truly underrated film. Yes, Rourke wasn't underrated during award season but, although she received the Supporting Actress nod, Marisa Tomei deserved more as she brings so much depth to her character than most other actresses would have given this role. She's the antithesis of the Julia Roberts PRETTY WOMAN 'hooker with the heart of gold' yet you root for her just as much. It's not an easy film to watch as it's a cold film. Cold weather, cold characters and a cold hard life. However, Rourke's performance will have you cheering for him the entire time.
Also, on a personal note, it was bittersweet to see Rourke get all the "comeback" attention he did for this film when I was praising his return three years ago after seeing SIN CITY. You want to watch a truly unrecognizable Rourke in a fantastic role unlike any you've seen, then please see SIN CITY.
Scrooged - ***
I've loved this film since it's original release and I cannot find a reason why I haven't bought this DVD until now. It will forever be a favorite holiday film, not quite in the league of HOME ALONE or A CHRISTMAS STORY, but it's something you can watch if you're with the Scrooges you know who don't want to watch anything "sappy." Bobcat Goldthwait is a real joy to watch in this film and Bill Murray's performance can be enjoyed on so many levels. His scenes with Carol Kane rank as one of my favorite pairings ever to grace the screen.
The Reader - ***
I liked this film, especially Kate Winslet's Oscar-winning performance, but... I doubt it will stand the test of time other than being known as the film which finally brought Ms. Winslet her Oscar.
Caddyshack - ***
A timeless classic that still holds up, at least for me, nearly 30 years after its initial release. It's one of those films where, depending on the circles you hang in, nearly every line is quotable and immediately recognized.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
January Screenings
The Pixar Story - ***
A very interesting documentary about what it must be like to be awesome every minute of every day.
The Magnificent Seven - ***
I wrote a long review but it seemed to have gotten lost so, to sum up... Awesome western. Great theme song. Michael Bay will eventually do a remake and ruin it.
A Love Song For Bobby Long - ***
Again, wrote a long review but was lost by google because apparently "save now" means "let's make it say "saved" but if you navigate away to preview, when you come back all your changes will be gone. F'n google. To sum up, Gabriel Macht is the surprise in a great indepenent film that received no recognition other than Johansson's Golden Globe nod for Best Actress. Give it a shot. It's much better than the trailer makes it look.
Cool Hand Luke - ***
George Kennedy deserved the Oscar for his supporting performance. To act side by side Paul Newman and be a scene stealer is award worthy indeed. Didn't quite work for Bruce Willis in "Nobody's Fool," although the Chlotrudis Awards agree with me and gave Bruce the nomination.
Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story - **1/2
I found this film to be funny at times, but a bit unorganized. Maybe it would have worked better as a cable series a la "Extras." But I did think Steve Coogan was good. I'm looking forward to more of his work in the future.
Junebug - **1/2
I've had this DVD for-ever and just never got around to it. Amy Adams is great, which I had already known by the time I screened this, and worth viewing if you're a fan of hers. The rest of the cast is good too, but the last act is unsatisfying.
What's Up Doc? - ***
A favorite of mine when I saw it in college and it still holds up well with me. Streisand is hilarious (yes, that Streisand, for those brought up on Yentl and The Prince of Tides) and Ryan O'Neal is also very well-suited in the character perfected by Cary Grant in "Bringing Up Baby."
Black Rain - **
Visually interesting, but looks a lot like scenes/sets not used in Ridley Scott's earlier film "Blade Runner." It's the kind of film every action parody was built on.
Tropic Thunder - **1/2
I wanted to like this more but maybe my expectations were too high once I finally screened it. Downey Jr. is great, Jack Black is really miscast here and I think Stiller's best work is when he's the straight man. I should probably bump this up to three stars because of Tom Cruise's performance. As great as he is in this cameo-ish role (when is 10 minutes of screen time a "cameo" and when is it a "supporting acting Oscar nomination" role? I can't tell anymore.) I would have much rather seen him take the Ben Stiller role. That would have been an even greater career move. Or how about him doing both? Pompous and spoiled is the same whether it's an actor or studio executive.
The Dark Knight - ***1/2
I didn't like this as much on the 2nd viewing and several people are going to be pretty pissed at me for saying so. It's still great, it's just not the best movie ever. Heath Ledger deserves every bit of praise. A very nuanced and subtle performance even though it's a very loud and exaggerated character. Very, very few actors could have pulled this off and were I casting the film, he wouldn't have made my short list. Kudos definitely goes to Christopher Nolan, who was not only robbed of Oscar nomination for directing but I think was robbed of a win as well. I also think Aaron Eckhart was robbed of a lot of deserved praise because of the over-hype of Ledger's tragic death.
Rebecca - ***1/2
Why don't I rate this film as four stars? I'm not sure, but my immediate reaction upon seeing this after several years was three and a half. It's really, really close. I really like it and especially like Joan Fontaine. Just watch the extra's on the DVD which shows screen tests from other actresses and I think you'll find Joan did the best interpretation of the character. Olivier is quite irreplacable here. Extremely worthy of it's 11 Academy Award nominations. (Why does it seem like films *earned* their nominations in those days and it wasn't all about who's popular or what studio has the best marketing team? Oddly enough, it probably was the same way then and in 50 years I'll be sitting with my peers in the nursing home and we'll all reminisce about how great "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" was. Hopefully I'll be heavily sedated or the first person to say that will soon see the hook end of my cane.
Meet Me In St. Louis - ***1/2
This is the mashed potato's of film. The definition of comfort food you find yourself wanting over and over again. The art decoration is like butter. Judy is picture perfect and if you don't find yourself *completely* adoring Margaret O'Brien you are dead inside (she won the Outstanding Juvenille Actress Oscar for this role and it's very clear why).
Dumbo - **
I choke up during "Baby Mine" but really, this film didn't offer me much as far as entertainment. I'm sure had I seen it as a child my reaction would be different. It's a good movie, with some interesting points, one major one being the "Pink Elephants on Parade" sequence which seems like it belonged in "Fantasia" but was cut for whatever reasons and they just dumped in in "Dumbo." It's viewed as a classic "scary" scene for people who saw it as children, but I don't think it fit with the film at all.
Peter Pan (Disney's) - ***
I've come to learn that I adore any and every version of the Peter Pan story (except "Hook"; sorry Steven). Universal's 2003 live-action version is underrated while "Finding Neverland" is my personal favorite so far (I highly doubt this title will be challenged in my lifetime). Disney's version is also extremely entertaining and a delight to watch.
Hellboy II: The Golden Army - ***
I was surprised to see how director Guillermo del Toro started to get a great deal of attention for his film "Pan's Labyrinth" and praise for how visually stunning it was. I kept asking myself, "didn't any of these people see 'Hellboy'"? Apparently not, and they apparently didn't see this sequel either or the praise would have continued. It's films like these that make me glad I have a very big screen with which to enjoy films like this. The cast is great, the story is intriguing and it's never boring to behold it's visuals. I hope this franchise continues on.
A very interesting documentary about what it must be like to be awesome every minute of every day.
The Magnificent Seven - ***
I wrote a long review but it seemed to have gotten lost so, to sum up... Awesome western. Great theme song. Michael Bay will eventually do a remake and ruin it.
A Love Song For Bobby Long - ***
Again, wrote a long review but was lost by google because apparently "save now" means "let's make it say "saved" but if you navigate away to preview, when you come back all your changes will be gone. F'n google. To sum up, Gabriel Macht is the surprise in a great indepenent film that received no recognition other than Johansson's Golden Globe nod for Best Actress. Give it a shot. It's much better than the trailer makes it look.
Cool Hand Luke - ***
George Kennedy deserved the Oscar for his supporting performance. To act side by side Paul Newman and be a scene stealer is award worthy indeed. Didn't quite work for Bruce Willis in "Nobody's Fool," although the Chlotrudis Awards agree with me and gave Bruce the nomination.
Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story - **1/2
I found this film to be funny at times, but a bit unorganized. Maybe it would have worked better as a cable series a la "Extras." But I did think Steve Coogan was good. I'm looking forward to more of his work in the future.
Junebug - **1/2
I've had this DVD for-ever and just never got around to it. Amy Adams is great, which I had already known by the time I screened this, and worth viewing if you're a fan of hers. The rest of the cast is good too, but the last act is unsatisfying.
What's Up Doc? - ***
A favorite of mine when I saw it in college and it still holds up well with me. Streisand is hilarious (yes, that Streisand, for those brought up on Yentl and The Prince of Tides) and Ryan O'Neal is also very well-suited in the character perfected by Cary Grant in "Bringing Up Baby."
Black Rain - **
Visually interesting, but looks a lot like scenes/sets not used in Ridley Scott's earlier film "Blade Runner." It's the kind of film every action parody was built on.
Tropic Thunder - **1/2
I wanted to like this more but maybe my expectations were too high once I finally screened it. Downey Jr. is great, Jack Black is really miscast here and I think Stiller's best work is when he's the straight man. I should probably bump this up to three stars because of Tom Cruise's performance. As great as he is in this cameo-ish role (when is 10 minutes of screen time a "cameo" and when is it a "supporting acting Oscar nomination" role? I can't tell anymore.) I would have much rather seen him take the Ben Stiller role. That would have been an even greater career move. Or how about him doing both? Pompous and spoiled is the same whether it's an actor or studio executive.
The Dark Knight - ***1/2
I didn't like this as much on the 2nd viewing and several people are going to be pretty pissed at me for saying so. It's still great, it's just not the best movie ever. Heath Ledger deserves every bit of praise. A very nuanced and subtle performance even though it's a very loud and exaggerated character. Very, very few actors could have pulled this off and were I casting the film, he wouldn't have made my short list. Kudos definitely goes to Christopher Nolan, who was not only robbed of Oscar nomination for directing but I think was robbed of a win as well. I also think Aaron Eckhart was robbed of a lot of deserved praise because of the over-hype of Ledger's tragic death.
Rebecca - ***1/2
Why don't I rate this film as four stars? I'm not sure, but my immediate reaction upon seeing this after several years was three and a half. It's really, really close. I really like it and especially like Joan Fontaine. Just watch the extra's on the DVD which shows screen tests from other actresses and I think you'll find Joan did the best interpretation of the character. Olivier is quite irreplacable here. Extremely worthy of it's 11 Academy Award nominations. (Why does it seem like films *earned* their nominations in those days and it wasn't all about who's popular or what studio has the best marketing team? Oddly enough, it probably was the same way then and in 50 years I'll be sitting with my peers in the nursing home and we'll all reminisce about how great "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" was. Hopefully I'll be heavily sedated or the first person to say that will soon see the hook end of my cane.
Meet Me In St. Louis - ***1/2
This is the mashed potato's of film. The definition of comfort food you find yourself wanting over and over again. The art decoration is like butter. Judy is picture perfect and if you don't find yourself *completely* adoring Margaret O'Brien you are dead inside (she won the Outstanding Juvenille Actress Oscar for this role and it's very clear why).
Dumbo - **
I choke up during "Baby Mine" but really, this film didn't offer me much as far as entertainment. I'm sure had I seen it as a child my reaction would be different. It's a good movie, with some interesting points, one major one being the "Pink Elephants on Parade" sequence which seems like it belonged in "Fantasia" but was cut for whatever reasons and they just dumped in in "Dumbo." It's viewed as a classic "scary" scene for people who saw it as children, but I don't think it fit with the film at all.
Peter Pan (Disney's) - ***
I've come to learn that I adore any and every version of the Peter Pan story (except "Hook"; sorry Steven). Universal's 2003 live-action version is underrated while "Finding Neverland" is my personal favorite so far (I highly doubt this title will be challenged in my lifetime). Disney's version is also extremely entertaining and a delight to watch.
Hellboy II: The Golden Army - ***
I was surprised to see how director Guillermo del Toro started to get a great deal of attention for his film "Pan's Labyrinth" and praise for how visually stunning it was. I kept asking myself, "didn't any of these people see 'Hellboy'"? Apparently not, and they apparently didn't see this sequel either or the praise would have continued. It's films like these that make me glad I have a very big screen with which to enjoy films like this. The cast is great, the story is intriguing and it's never boring to behold it's visuals. I hope this franchise continues on.
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