Leatherheads (2008)

George Clooney directs a vintage football film in a mixture of screwball comedy with moments of stylized dramedy.  With mixed reviews I kept pushing this back and after seeing it I think any bad reviews are misleading.   It's actually a very fun film with charm and wit tossed in.  The production design is impressive and I love the cast.  Renee Zellwegger and John Krasinski are excellent and I'm never unimpressed by Clooney's charisma.   If I had to find fault with it I'd say it might be a bit long.  Yet I hunger for more films to be made about the earlier days of American football.   To see how the game was played and how far we've come is remarkable.  Grade: B+ 

OSCAR 2011 – RESULTS & REVIEWS

It was a satisfying Oscars that never really went anywhere.  James Franco and Anne Hathaway never made me laugh out loud but they weren’t horrible either.  There were a few moments worth commenting on but mostly it was your typical Oscar ceremony, polite and right down the middle.  Tomorrow the only awkward moment worth talking about will be Melissa Leo’s embarrassing acceptance speech, or non-speech depending on whether you’re talking about her speechlessness or her muted F-bombs.   I have to admit I didn’t do as well as I have in the past predicting the awards.  I got nine wrong.  That’s 62% correct.  Oh well, here’s a rundown of the ceremony.  

HOSTS
The video of Anne and James going into the dreams of Alec Baldwin was the funniest bit these dueling hosts would have together.   When the screen lifted and they walked out on stage I was ready for them to shine.  Instead we had an amusing but forgettable series of jokes with their mother and grandmother out in the audience.  What happened to joking at the nominees?   I wouldn’t say they had zero chemistry but there was something lacking.  Anne brought her charm but I guess James Franco left his at home (that or he was just too nervous being a nominee too).  As the night went on I felt Jame’s dry, straight-man routine was a little too indifferent while Anne’s bubbly likeability dominated the paring.   Next year, if they can’t get Steve Martin, I say have Anne host solo.  Her musical attack on Hugh Jackman was proof of her talent and a highlight of the evening.              

BEST PICTURE: The King’s Speech

The Academy must love having Spielberg give out this award.  Two years ago he had the honor and I can’t help but wonder if they’d have him do it every year.  I would prefer they surprise us with someone more unconventional than dole out the same old, popular “legend” but I did like what he said about the nine films that don’t get the award being amongst such films as Citizen Kane and Raging Bull.  I’m so glad that The King’s Speech won. 

Which leads me to a point:  I hate it that there are ten nominations.  It’s a joke because it waters down the award.  There’s no point either because all one has to do is look at the Best Directors nominees to find out which five of the ten would have been the real nominees if they went back to the way it was.  I understand they want to reward more popular flair but the Academy shouldn’t be a place of compromises.  Forget the TV ratings and just simplify it like it once was.
BEST DIRECTOR: Tom Hooper

Tom Hooper certainly deserves the award and I loved how he thanked his mother for discovering The King’s Speech at a theater reading and suggesting he make it his next film.   I’d have loved it if David Fincher won, but he’ll be nominated again, so it’s okay. 

BEST ACTOR: Colin Firth

He has a great sense of humor and loads of class.  I almost wished he had started dancing on stage.  Predictable but I’m very happy he won. 

BEST ACTRESS: Natalie Portman

The curse of Hilary Swank continues.  The minute Hilary walked out on stage to present the presenter for Best Director (Kathleen Bigelow) I laughed.   As long as Swank’s in the room Anne Bening will remain Oscar-less.  In this instance I’m happy about it because Natalie Portman deserved the award.  I loved her graceful acceptance speech and thought she looked beautiful. 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Christain Bale

Christian Bale delivered the best speech of the night.  He really appreciated the award and I loved how he got choked up mentioning his wife.  His quip about using the F-word before was wonderful and a great dig at himself.  I love this guy and I’m so happy he won. 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Melissa Leo

Where to begin?  I’m really glad she won, she was certainly deserving of the award but how I wish she would have just said thank you and walked off stage.  It was really awkward and funny but for the wrong reasons.   Still I’m glad she won.  She’s a fine actress.  She’s just not that great at acceptance speeches.  I also have to say Kirk Douglas was awesome.  

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY:  The King’s Speech
I’m happy for David Seidler but I wish Christopher Nolan would have won.  Mr. Seidler deserves the award, certainly, but I always favor the more inventive scripts and Nolan crafted the more original vision.  Still I loved Seidler’s speech, especially how his father said he would always be a late bloomer.    

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: The Social Network

The second best speech of the night was from Aaron Sorkin and I loved what he said, especially his last line that ended the speech just right.  He really does talk like the characters in his movies, doesn’t he? 

BEST ANIMATED FILM: Toy Story 3

Pixar is the best; it’s just the truth.  
                       
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE: The Social Network

Of all the awards this is the one that I was most disappointed by.  Inception’s score is so iconic and powerful.  I really wanted it to win but there must be a lot of Nine Inch Nails fans because while I liked The Social Network’s music I think Zimmer’s score will stand the test of time.      

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS: Inception

The better of the five nominees wins.  That’s four Oscars for the Christopher Nolan film. 

BEST ART DIRECTION: Alice in Wonderland

I should have known this one would have won.  I just thought The King Speech would collect more awards.  I would have preferred Inception to win but I guess the Academy wanted to spread the awards around.

BEST COSTUMES: Alice in Wonderland

I thought the King’s Speech would win this category because it’s a period film but Colleen Atwood deservedly took home the prize.  Yeah! 

BEST EDITING: The Social Network

The Social Network was well-edited but nowhere near as good as the Fighter.   Even Black Swan was a better edited film, in my opinion.  How hard is it to edit a movie directed by Fincher and written by Sorkin?  The Academy thought really challenging, I guess. 

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Inception

I guess it’s not time for Roger Deakins to finally win an Oscar.  I am glad that Wally Pfister won if Deakins couldn’t though.  He was my second choice.  

BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM:  In a Better World

Based on the clips I am glad In a Better World won.  I can’t wait to see this film when it’s available.   Truth be told I can’t wait to see all of the nominees I hadn’t seen yet.   

BEST MAKEUP: The Wolfman

Does Rick Baker ever get tired of winning Oscars?

BEST SOUND EDITING: Inception

Deserved it1

BEST SOUND MIXING: Inception

It was another victory for the best sounding movie of the year.

BEST ORIGINAL SONG: Toy Story 3

Randy Newman’s speech was the third best.  I loved how he attacked the Academy for not finding a fifth song while thanking them at the same time.   I still would have rather had Tangled’s “I See the Light” win but Alan Menken has so many Oscars already it doesn’t really matter.   I have to apologize to Gwyneth Paltrow because I thought “Country Song” was nominated but it was the song “Coming Home” instead which is not cheesy at all.      

BEST DOCUMENTRY: Inside Job

It would have been fun to see what Bansky would have done at the Oscars but I’m confident Inside Job deserved to win.  I can’t wait to see this movie!   I wish Charles Ferguson wouldn’t have apologized for making a comment about how no one has been prosecuted for what happened with the economic crisis.   He should have remained strong in his criticism. 

BEST DOCUMENTRY SHORT: Strangers No More

These shorts all look so good.  I wish I could stream them on Netflix.  Are you listening Netflix?

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT: God of Love

The Academy was in a Woody Allen mood it seemed.  Matheny was such a likeable guy.  I hope to see his first feature. 

BEST ANIMATED SHORT: The Lost Thing

Pixar lost but to a very cool looking film.  I hope to see it soon because it looks right up my alley. 

IN MEMORIAM

Well the Academy did it again.  Where was Corey Haim?  The guy was in a lot of movies and even if his career hit the dumps that’s no way to kick a dead man while he’s down.  Worse than Corey’s omission was Peter Grave’s absence (the guy was like in 70 films).  They could have had an Airplane! trio with Lesley Nielson, Peter Graves and Barbara Billingsely (yes even the Beave’s mom was cut).   Where was Betty Garrett?   I find it inexcusable that they let such beloved actors vanish without acknowledgment.   Besides that I thought Celine Dion's singing was fantastic and Halle Berry's tribute to Lena Horne a perfect ending.   

FINAL THOUGHTS
Award shows are only entertaining if things go wrong and the Hosts and/or Presenters with wit turn the disaster into a golden moment.  But nothing went wrong here, except for a few awkward moments which were kind of funny.  Award shows succeed if the races are close, which in this case they were not.  Award shows are memorable when those running it turn it into a night celebrating the movies without taking themselves too serious.  I love the Oscars and I don’t ask for much.  I don’t care how long the show is.  I don’t care if there is dancing or not.  All I ask is that the Academy honor the work.   Bring the Honorary Oscars back to primtime and skip the four hour red carpet pre-shows.   Oscar isn’t going anywhere, folks.  Here’s hoping next year Anne Hathaway and Hugh Jackman (or someone a little more risky) rock the Kodak.  Grade: B+. 

OSCAR 2011 - PREDICTIONS

It’s the day before the Oscars so here are my predictions. 

BEST PICTURE: I’ve seen all nominees.
Should win: The King’s Speech
Will win: The King’s Speech
Likely Upset: The Social Network
Biggest Upset: Winter’s Bone

I loved many of these other films but The King’s Speech is fantastic.  The Social Network might still beat it but I’d be disappointed.  The Social Network was good but it’s not even the second best of the ten nominated film. 

BEST DIRECTOR: I’ve seen all nominees.
Should win: Ethan and Joel Coen
Will Win: David Fincher
Likely Upset: Tom Hooper
Biggest Upset: David O. Russell

Tom Hooper could pull off an upset here but it wouldn’t be a surprise since his is the best film of the lot.  But I feel like David Fincher is going to win because of his body of work and the fact he made a movie about Facebook look great.  My reason for voting for the Coen Brothers is because I think they’re the best.  Their direction for True Grit was flawless in my opinion. 

BEST ACTOR: I’ve seen all nominees except for Javiar Bardem in Biutiful. 
Should win: Colin Firth
Will Win: Colin Firth
Biggest Upset: Anyone else.

Colin Firth deserves it.  It’s a done deal.  Let’s move on.

BEST ACTRESS: I’ve seen all the nominees except for Nicole Kidman in Rabbit Hole.
Should win: Natalie Portman
Will win: Natalie Portman
Likely Upset: Annette Bening

Natalie deserves it but the Academy might want to reward Annette the award simply because she’s come so close before but never won.  That would be shame but it happens all the time.  I’ll be crossing my fingers that they give it to the one who had to train her heart out as a ballerina instead of the one who just had to act like a bitch.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Christain Bale
Will win: Christain Bale
Likely Upset 1: Jonathan Hawks
Likely Upset 2: Geoffrey Rush
Biggest Upset: Jeremy Renner

For the last few months I’ve said that Mr. Bale had it made, but I have this strange feeling that Jonathan Hawks is going to shock the world.  I wouldn’t bet money on it (which is why I’m predicting Mr. Bale) but I wouldn’t be floored.  With all the love for The King’s Speech I could see Bale and Rush splitting the vote making Hawks the winner.  I thought Mr. Hawks was the best part of Winter’s Bone but Mr. Bale deserves the prize.  (Which leads to another question: has Hollywood forgiven Mr. Bale for his tirade on the set of Terminator 4?)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Hailee Steinfeld
Will win: Melissa Leo
Likely Upset: Hailee Steinfeld
Biggets Upset: Jacki Weaver

This is a hard one only because it looked like Melissa Leo was going to win this easily until you account for the fact that Hailee Steinfeld should have been nominated for best Actress and that might push her over the edge.  Also it wasn’t too bright for Melissa Leo to campaign for the award in the press (how dare her); that rubbed some voters the wrong way I’m sure.   I personally don’t care who of these two women win because they both deserve it. 

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Inception
Will win: The King’s Speech
Likely Upset: Inception
Biggest Upset: Another Year

I always lean toward the more creative of the bunch when it comes to the screenplay awards which is why I am voting for Inception but The King’s Speech will probably win because it’s the better film.  Another reason why Inception could win is to console Christopher Nolan for not being nominated for directing.   Either script deserves the award.

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: The Social Network
Will Win: The Social Network
Biggest Upset: Anyone else

The Social Network will win because the dialogue is so delicious and quotable and actors (who make up the majority of the Academy) love great dialogue.  Also it’s funny and a very entertaining film about Facebook.  Who would have thought?  

BEST ANIMATED FILM: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Toy Story 3
Will win: Toy Story 3
Biggest Upset: How to Train Your Dragon

Easy right?  It should be.  Toy Story 3 is nominated for best picture too.  Dreamworks would love to see an upset though.  Here’s hoping Pixar accepts another Oscar. 
                       
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Inception
Will win: Inception
Likely Upset: The King’s Speech

Inception’s score is so epic and powerful I don’t see Hans Zimmer losing but some might be turned off by its loudness and want to reward someone else.   If Inception loses I’m thinking The King’s Speech would win because it’s the best film of the year.

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS: I’ve seen all the nominees except for Hereafter.
Should win: Inception
Will win: Inception
Biggest Upset: Alice in Wonderland

Not much of a race.  Inception was just bolder and more memorable.   Alice in Wonderland was great too but it was more like window dressing for a weak script.  Inceptions visuals actually helped tell the story.

BEST ART DIRECTION: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Inception
Will win: The King’s Speech
Likely Upset: Alice in Wonderland

This is the hardest to figure out.  I think Inception was amazing, especially the design of the repeating staircase and the giant falling apart city but the Academy usually rewards period films for Art direction which is why I’m betting on The King’s Speech.  Alice in Wonderland could surprise, considering all the cool props and castle designs.

BEST COSTUMES: I’ve seen all the nominees except for I am Love and The Tempest
Should win: Alice in Wonderland
Will win: The King’s Speech

This is second hardest to figure out.  I’m going with The King’s Speech because it’s the best film of the year.  Yet Colleen Atwood’s work on Alice in Wonderland was amazing, just look at the Red Queen’s dress alone as an example.   I also loved how they solved dressing Alice even as she changed size.

BEST EDITING: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: The Fighter
Will win: The King’s Speech
Likely Upset: The Social Network
When in doubt I predict the film that’s going to win best picture; which is why I’m predicting The King’s Speech as the winner.  I’d prefer The Fighter or Black Swan but The King’s Speech is deserving as well.   

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: True Grit
Will win: True Grit
Likely Upset: The King’s Speech

It’s time for Roger Deakins to finally win an Oscar.  The man has filmed some of the most amazing movies ever made and he’s never won; how is that possible?  Barton Fink, The Big Lebowski, O Brother Where Art Thou and even the black and white film The Man that Wasn’t there.  True Grit is a great accomplishment and the most deserving of the bunch.  I hope the Academy gets it right.  I think they will. 

BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM:  I’ve only seen Dogtooth.
Should win: Unable to vote
Will win: Biutiful
Likely Upset: In a Better World

In a Better World might win this one but I think Biutiful will win because of Javiar Bardem’s appeal. 

BEST MAKEUP: I’ve only seen The Wolfman
Should win: Unable to vote
Will win: Barney’s Version
Likely Upset: The Wolfman

I’m going to guess that old age makeup will defeat werewolf make up this year. 

BEST SOUND EDITING: I’ve seen all the nominees except for Unstoppable.
Should win: Inception
Will win: Inception
Biggest Upset: Unstoppable

Inception’s sound was more complex which is why I’m guessing it will win. 

BEST SOUND MIXING: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Inception
Will win: Inception

Inception will win for the same reason stated above.    

BEST ORIGINAL SONG: I’ve seen all the nominees.
Should win: Tangled
Will win: Tangled
Likely Upset: Toy Story 3

Tangled had the best songs of the year in a movie so it should win.  Country Strong is cheesy so I doubt it will gather enough votes.  Toy Story 3 might receive some votes out of nostalgia for the first two Toy Story films but I’m still thinking Tangled will win this one.

BEST DOCUMENTARY: I’ve seen all the nominees except for Wasteland and Inside Job
Should win: Gasland
Will win: Inside Job
Likely Upset: Exit Through the Gift Shop

This is a fun category because of the diversity of films represented.  I’m thinking a film that examines the financial crisis will triumph over Banksy’s entertaining but questionable film about street art.  I’d love to see Gasland win but I doubt many voters were curious enough to check out a film about the dangers of hydraulic fracturing.  Really it doesn’t matter who wins because all of these are deserving. 

NOTE ON SHORTS
I love the fact that the Academy rewards film makers of shorts.  I only wished they helped distribute these always artful and important films to the public before the ceremony, especially today with the Internet as the perfect tool.  I know you can watch them on iTunes but that’s not good enough in my opinion.

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT: I’ve seen none of these nominees.
Should win: Unable to vote.
Will win: Strangers No More
Likely Upset: Sun Come Up

Based on trailers alone I’m going to guess that Strangers No More, about a school in Tel Aviv that teaches kids from all around the world, looks like the favorite; it seems really uplifting.  Unless the Academy wants to make a statement against global warming:  then Sun Come Up, about villagers from a small island having to evacuate due to climate change. 

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT: I’ve seen none of these nominees.
Should win: Unable to vote.
Will win: Na Wewe

Based only from clips I’m picking Na Wewe which looked the most polished of the five.  It’s very serious and a tense film about ethnic cleansing in Africa.  If the Academy is in a Woody Allen mood I could see them picking God Is Love but I doubt it. 

BEST ANIMATED SHORT: I’ve only seen Day and Night.
Should win: Unable to vote.
Will win: Day and Night
Likely Upset: The Gruffalo

Day and Night was so original and brilliant I can’t see any of the others winning.   The Lost Thing looks really cool and The Gruffalo has very unique squirrels, but I think Pixar will probably win this one, unless the Academy wants to support an artist not backed by a big animation house like Pixar. 

Marnie (1964)

Hitchcock is the greatest film director of all time.  Okay I said it.  I'll probably change my mind after seeing another Kurosawa film but for now it's Alfred Hitchcock.  But how can I say such a thing after watching a film many consider one of his failures?  Simple, because even an average Hitchcock film is more complex and devious than most other films.  Here we have Marnie Edger, psyhological liar and thief, switching identies like costumes, played by Tippi Hedren with great intensity.  Then she's found out by the handsome Mark Rutland, a man obsessed with pyschology and animal behavior, played by the young Sean Connery.  What happens next is down right comical but in Hitchock's hands it's mysterious and refreshing, it's pure storytelling as only the best are capable of pulling off.  The film explores so many themes it's impressive it's all in one film.   Some might cry that this film looks fake, with obvious projectons and matte paintings, I on the other hand consider it abstract art, a view of life that's not realistic but that delivers an enterataining truth.  This is what made Hitchcock so impressive, he crafted thrilling stories without attempting to trick his audience into believing what they were seeing was genuine.   It's about the story and that's all.   Grade: B+. 

Walking And Talking (1996)

Nichole Holofcener's first film is a wonderful written indie executed with timeless appeal.  Catherine Keener is a pleasure to watch.  Her acting is relaxed and unpredictable creating a character that's engaging and beautifully honest.  It's no wonder Holofcener is constantly hiring her for her other films.  I would too.  Really there isn't a weak link, everyone is sensual to watch.  Anne Heche demonstrates that she's a thrilling actress with complex range and Leiv Schreiber is clearly a great actor.  I love Kevin Corrigan's character.  His reaction to Heche's phone message is a perfect moment; that face expression of his is burned to my brain.   But what is it about?  It's a simple story really: two women best friends dealing with a common change to their deep relationship, on is getting married.  Yet I'm coming to learn that only Holofcener can write it so well without it feeling trite and sentimental.  Grade: A- 

Cyrus (2010)

John C. Reilly plays a divorced, down-on-his-luck guy who falls for a woman he meets at a party, played by Marisa Tomei, only to learn she has a 21 year old son living at home, played with subtlety by Jonah Hill.  A love triangle of tense awkwardness ensues.  Such a simply concept could have been ruined with typical Hollywood hi jinks.  Thankfully the film makers keep the characters the focus and allow them to control the story.  The love story feels real and the hatred between boyfriend and son is just as genuine.   This refreshing film had me laughing and sitting at the edge of my seat the entire film.    Grade: A-.

Dear Netflix

As a loyal member and supporter of your service I'd like to take up this time to make a few suggestions.  

1. Create a Suggestion box.  I know that you'd probably get a million suggestions a day, but how else are you going to get feed back from your customers?  I once called to make a suggestion and the customer service representative (very nice by they way) simply told me she had no way of noting a problem or error.  For example I found out that they had the wrong aspect ratio listed for a movie.  The only way to make this clear is by reviewing the film. 

2. Improve Browsing and Searching.  I can imagine it's a very difficult task to present so many movies in a clear and fun way.  You do a really great job.  But you haven't changed much.  It's time to give us more tools to find movies we might want to see.  How about instead of just grouping films by genre you try by year or decade?   I can't tell you how many times I'm in the mood for an '80s film or a '30s musical only to spend ten minutes looking through various genres trying to find the film I'm in the mood for.  Or what about country origin instead of just Foreign?  Foreign is way too broad.  Sometimes I know I want to see a Japanese movie but I have to scroll through every other country first.   Also why is it that I look for a movie in a sub-genre and can't find it, only to find out that it is listed as being part of that sub-genre?  Is there a limit to how many films you can show per category?  Fix that too.

3. Make it Multiple User Friendly.   Both my wife and I stream movies but only I'm allowed to rate movies because I want the rating to represent my views (since I watch more than she does).  My wife is fine with that but sometimes she misses out on movies that I've seen but she hasn't.  I know there's a check box that allows her to see all of the films listed under a certain genre regardless if it has been rated or not but it would be much clearer if for every genre there was a section called See Again (like on the first page of the Watch Instantly tab).  That way she could see what I've seen.   Also it would be nice if one could set up two rating systems per account.   Maybe a different log in that shows the same queue.  This could get confusing, but there's got to be away.   There's no way my wife is going to pay for another account. 

4.   Bring back the "Add to DVD queue" feature from Streaming Devices.  I know Netflix is aware of the anger they stirred when they removed this feature from their streaming devices but I've already run into two people directly effected by this change and are considering quiting their subscriptions.  In a time where Apple and Amazon are on the verge of becoming competitors this is not the time to chase customers away.  This was a very useful tool that allowed one to be connected to their account from any device, taking that away means forcing them to get on a computer.  That's taking a step backward, especially when the traditional concept of a PC is changing.

5. Expiration dates.  Thankful there's the independent website http://www.instantwatcher.com/ to help with this but it would be so nice if you didn't have to go to another website to see when a film would be removed from the Streaming option. (Yes, I'm aware that a date appears when it gets near to leaving but that's not good enough.  Have it pop up as it is loading up.)  Even a meter saying how many days are left would be nice; example: 21 days until expiring.  I was so annoyed when I started a film one day and tried to finish the next only to learn that it expired.

So that's yet for now.  Regardless of Netflix's flaws, it's a movie lover's paradise.  But I'd hate to see it get crushed by some inferior site simply because it refused to improve and adjust to future concerns.
Sincerely,
W.W.C.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Tim Burton is remarkable, a director with an incredible knack for outstanding visuals with an unique perspective.  He's one of my favorites.  Ever since Pee-Wee's Big Adventure, Beetlejuice and Batman he's always impressed me.  Unfortunately his one weakness is that his visual genius sometimes overpowers the actually storytelling of the film, even pointing out how inferior a script it is he's working with.   This film is a prime example of this: a clever take on the Wonderland story (a sequel that is) that never really matches the amazing look of Burton's imagination.   What's even more strange is how much I enjoyed the performances of all the actors and yet still found the story ho-hum.   Mia Wasikowska is perfectly cast as the teenage Alice, Johnny Depp is in high-gear experimenting like the crazy actor he is and Helena Bonham Carter is devilishly good as the Queen of Harts.  I even liked Anne Hathaway's eerie and flighty take on the White Queen.  But none of this matters when the story bounces around without focus and ends like most modern fantasy stories do these days: an epic battle between good and evil.   If I were rating this film purely on its production design, special effects, visual dynamics I'd give it an A but the script just drags it all down.   That's not to say it's a bad film, I liked it, it's just that I really wish they would have developed the script more so it would match the inventive qualities of its exterior.   It depresses me in away when I think how really great this film could have been.  I hate missed opportunities. Grade: B.

Note on Frank Beddor and The Looking Glass Wars:  Most people are probably not aware but this film has many similarities to a series of novels by Frank Beddor.  My take on this is that this is completely coincidental.  I hope though in ten years a film version of Beddor's story is made.  I think could be a superior film. 

Spoiler:  The biggest problem with this film was the giant letdown when we finally get to see the Jabberwocky.   It's a dragon, that's all folks, in the wonderful world of Wonderland the best this team of visual masters could come up with was a dragon.  Boring.  I've read Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.   The Jabberwocky is mysterious and should embody fear itself.  It shouldn't look like typical dragon.  What about a giant rat with lizard qualities or a two-headed beast with worm like appendages, anything else would do.  I didn't mind that they dressed Alice in armor but come on, where's the suspense?   The minute I saw it was a dragon, I knew she'd slay it.  Gone was the threat to her life and the unlikely but possible sad ending.   What an cop out.

The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers (2009)

One might not think a documentary film about a government analyst releasing top secret information about the Vietnam war very relevant today but one only needs to remember Wiki leaks and Julian Assange to realize how much it is.   The questions this film asks are important:  Should one remain loyal to their country even as said government acts in an immoral way or lies to its people?   Does the press have the write to print documents classified as top secret?  Was Ellsberg a traitor or a hero?  I personally believe it was wrong of Ellsberg to steal secrets and pass them along but in this case it was even more wrong for him to remain quiet.  It took a lot of bravery for Ellsberg to share what he knew and for that he is a true citizen of freedom.   This documentary is a fascinating look back.   I can imagine when the Pentagon papers came out it was incredible.   Today all of the facts on Vietnam are common knowledge and its easy to take it for granted.  But imagine this: people actually trusted their government back then.  Nixon was considered a good president.   A lot has changed and yet when I reflect back to the Iraq war it's sad to see how much has stayed the same too.  Grade A-.   

Smiley Face (2007)

Anna Faris is hilarious.  I don't know what it is about her but she is just funny.   Even in this average film she finds a way of getting chuckles out of me.   If not for her talent and the dry brilliance of John Krasinski as her nerdy love interest I doubt this film would have turned out even half as good as it is.   The premise is simple: girl eats her roommate's marjuana-laced cupcakes and falls completely apart rambling from one disaster to the next.  I confess to never smoking pot in my life, not that I care that people do, but perhaps this is one of the reasons the plot felt weak to me.  Still there are some silly gags worth checking out as long as one understands that this film is never to be taken serious as anything but a one-note joke.   Too bad some more better story elements could have been added to strengthen the plot.  Grade: B-   

Hors de prix [Priceless] (2006)

I'm a sucker for a good romantic comedy.  I'm man enough to admit it.  It's one of those genres that always pleases me, even average or just plan bad ones satisfy my need for formulaic love.  So it was no surprise that I fell for this film.  Audrey Tautou is especially good as the gold-digging, high-maintenance seductress looking for security in a rich man.  She's so fun to watch on screen.  But she's a fine actress too because this character is nothing from her other films.  Then there is Gad Elmaleh who with nerdy awkwardness almost steals the show, as the man who loves a girl he can never afford.  Great music, fun script and lots of clever laugh out loud moments, this film is worth the expense.  Grade: A.

The Young Victoria (2009)

As historical costume romances go this is a delightful film that tells the story of England's Queen Victoria when she obtains the crown and falls in love.  Like most well-crafted love stories it does what it is meant to and that's make the audience root for the two lovers to get together.  At times the story meanders a bit as it tries to follow some historical details as a blue print but excellent chemistry and good acting keep this film a float.  B.

Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008)

Director Kurt Kuenne creates a documentary film to capture the life of his best friend who was killed by an ex-girlfriend, a woman who ends up pregnant with his friend's son.  In essence this is a love letter and an exploration of patience and devoted love.   I was stunned and enraged by all that happened.  It's hard to recommend such an emotional draining film but it really is an incredible story.  Truth that life is stranger and harsher than fiction.  Grade: A

La Nana [The Maid] (2009)

Catalina Saavedra portrays the help for a rich family in Mexico and crafts a character that is unforgettable to watch.  Everything about her, from the way she walks, to the way she reacts to the other characters that cross her path is outstanding.  Yet she’s not the only stand out in this dramedy, directed by Sebastián Silva, there’s also Anita Reeves whose appearance in the second half of the film transforms the film into true work of art.  Here’s a story about a woman that so cares about those she cares about that she forgets that she needs to be cared for, especially from herself.   It’s also so refreshing to see characters on screen with normal bodies and likable but not striking diva faces.   Instead of some Hollywood beauty making herself look ugly so she can win an Oscar, you have real people and in real situations.  What a wonderful idea to keep your audience tuned in to the story instead of bringing the casting decisions in light.   Grade: A-  

Bob la Flambeur (1955)

Bob is a gentlemen gambler deciding to return to a life of crime when he loses all of his money in a horse race.  With a charming sense of humor and clever twists in the plot  Jean-Pierre Melville crafts a film noir that’s not like any American Film Noir produced.   There’s a lightness mixed in that one never takes serious.   Grade: B+

The American (2010)

I found this captivating thriller about a jaded, gun designer for the bad guys looking for redemption a refreshing work of character design.  George Clooney pushes himself into a new range, an intensely simply man struggling for meaning in his life and hoping for change.  Some probably would say that it's a slow film, but I found it paced just right, moving with purpose.  True, it could have had a better fight at the end of the film, but still I loved the last image.  Worth seeing as long as the viewer understands that it’s more about tension and tone than action and explosives.  Grade: A-

Revanche (2008)

An Austrian film directed by Götz Spielmann that follows the story of an ex-con wanting to runaway with his prostitute girlfriend to Spain only for the destiny of a police officer to intervene.  What results is pure cinematic poetry as the audience is confronted with the very roots of revenge and redemption.   These are great characters written and performed with subtly and depth of which most films lack.  I appreciated the elegant pacing Spielmann gave the film and loved how many surprises cropped up in a story so natural.  Recommend for people who enjoy quiet films with complex character driven plots.  Avoid if you're expecting a fast pace shoot'em up with lots of violence.  Grade: A-. 

The Runaways (2010)

An entertaining rock bio on the band the Runaways that follows the typical formula but without feeling trite.  With dead-on performances from Dakota Fanning, as Cherry Curry, and Kristen Stewart, as Joanne Jett, the film focus on these two artists relationship and on how fame breaks one down and the other seems destined by the rock gods.  The narrative's pacing does loose some steam in the last twenty minutes but thankfully the last scene saves the picture from falling off the rails.   I also felt the film makers slipped a bit on walking that thin line of accurately showing their drug use while trying to not glamorizing it.  They did show that drugs destroy people but I felt they could have hammered it home a little more.  The after effects of drug addiction is never fun even if it is part of the Rock'n'roll scene.  Overall a story worthy of a movie.  If anything watching it for the soundtrack is a bitchin' time.  Grade: B+.

The Band Wagon (1953)

Even in his '50s Fred Astaire made it look so easy.  Effortlessly he plays Tony Hunter, washed up has-been who is talked into a new show by some friends, a husband and wife writing duo.  They bring on actor and director Jeff Cordova to produce who hires on Astaire's leading dance partner Gabriella Gerard played wonderfully by Cyd Charisse.  This backstage film is directed by Vincente Minnelli who captures a sense of magic in a plot that's pretty simple.  Some times the acting is a little showy and unnatural but this didn't bother me because it fit with the characterization of the show.  Really what makes this such fine musical is the music and the dancing.   I especially loved the dance numbers between Astaire and Charisse (I watched them twice).  The Triplets number was another favorite of mine because it's so damn funny to watch.   What surprised me was how effective the ending was; it really wowed me.  Basically if you like musicals you'll love this one.  Just jump on the Band Wagon and go with it, it's a real joy.  Grade: A.

Spoiler:  A little bit more on the ending.  What was so great about it was that it completes a circle from the very beginning of the movie where Fred Astaire leaves the train depot singing about how great it is that he's on his own and by himself (which is sung just off enough for the audience to know he's lying).  Then at the end of the film he's in his dressing room singing the same song, certain that he is forever going to be alone when he is greeted by the entire company outside his dressing room.  Then Gaby tells him in a wonderful symbolic way that she loves him and wants to be with him.   The shot cuts to Astaire's tearful happy reaction that melted my heart.   What a great moment. 

The Edge of Love (2008)

For the life of me I can't figure out what went wrong with this film.  It's like a stew with all the best ingredients cooked perfectly that ends up tasting really really bland.   Solid performances, beautiful cinematography, and an interesting subject: this film should have been incredible.  But it's not.  I found it painfully slow.  It felt like it never was going to end.  There were a few good scenes but mostly the plot meanders about without direction.   It's never really clear what any of the characters want.  I still don't know who loved who.  Who was I supposed to root for?  I thought Dylan Thomas was a prick.  His wife was interesting but weak.  Vera, Dylan's first love, was a big mystery.  Cillian Murphy's character was only in the film for about fifteen minutes.  I'd only recommend this film for people who love romantic WWII films with lots of melodrama.   Everyone else should avoid this misfire of a film.  Grade: C.

Exam (2010)

This entertaining film directed by Stuart Hazeldine is a quality executed example of single-setting drama, a sort of science-fiction thriller in the spirit of 12 Angry Men.   8 candidates, looking to get hired for a mysterious position, enter a room to take an exam.   They're given instructions and 80 minutes to figure out the answer to a question.  Yet what is the question?   They don't know because when they flip their papers over they discover their papers blank.   I enjoyed watching smart people try to unravel a mystery in a logical manner.  The acting from a bunch of unknowns is excellent and I was impressed at how the film makers, with lighting and camera angles, made such a simple set work without feeling like a play.  If you enjoy clever thrillers this is one to try out.  Grade: B+.

Gasland (2010)

When I used to think of Natural Gas, I thought: clean and simple.  It's natural like tapping into a volcano.  How naive was I?  Josh Fox, the director of this moving and informative film, just smashed my preconceived ideas into a billion bits (sort of like fracking my mind of disinformation).  [Battlestar Galatica nerds out there, fracking here does not mean what you think.]  Watching this documentary I couldn't help but blink with recognition; I know these people.  The families effected by this blooming disaster remind me of neighbors I know.  These aren't eccentric celebrities or faraway foreigners, but down-to-Earth Americans being hurt by greedy corporations.  I know this idea of "big greedy corporations" has become kind of trite but how else can you describe it: some very rich people are doing whatever they can to guarantee they continue to make money.  Or said another way: they care more for their profits than for future generations of this country (from some reason the image of Dick Cheney popped into my head).  What you need to know is this: natural gas companies have zero government regulations (because they're exempt from all our laws that exist to protect the environment) on their practice of Hydraulic fracturing, where basically they pump into the ground a cocktail of bad chemicals to break up oil and gas wells to collect what we call National Gas.  These bad chemicals then make it into neighboring water supplies.  Then guess what happens?  People get sick.  Animals lose their fur.   Wells explode!  And nothing is being done about it!   This is a very important documentary that should be seen by everyone in the country.  I say this a lot to people when I watch a really great documentary but if there ever was a time to believe me it is now.   When people can light their tap water on fire, that should grab your attention.   As for the film making, Mr. Fox delivers a fantastic blend of information and story that never lets up.  There are some moments where I felt my skin tingle when his passion for nature illuminates the screen.  Grade: A.

I also implore you to check out the film's website.   There's a great part where Mr. Fox rebuttals claims by the Energy in Depth website that attempts to debunk the film.  And let's hope the FRAC Act someday gets passed in Congress.  If the BP oil spill taught us anything is that we should never let these companies have free rein of our land.   

Dead Calm (1989)

An excellent three-character thriller that takes place on the lonely ocean.  Beautifully shot, Philip Noyce shows how effective he is as a director.  Imagine how challenging of a shoot it must have been, out on the unpredictable, high seas.  Someday we can hope he attempts another small film like this than tackle another massive action film like Salt.  Nicole Kidman has never looked better although it's fascinating to see how far she has come along in her acting skills.  Even Billy Zane, who can sometimes lay it on thick, keeps his performance believable and scary without sneering like the typical villain.  It's not perfect, of course.  Even as tightly crafted thrillers go, there are a few plot holes but nothing outlandish to ruin the film.  Grade: B+.

Restrepo (2010)

I applaud Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington for giving us such an honest and unbiased report on the front lines of the Afghanistan war.  This documentary is a must-see for all Americans, regardless of your stance on this war,  because it demonstrates on a real level the complex sinisterness of warfare and especially our involvement in this one.  I must admit that I came away with a deep dislike of military masochism so prominent in these soldiers.  Perhaps I am unpatriotic for suggesting these warriors could have represented this country better, that while they perform a duty I cannot understand nor could take up, their boorishness is depressing to behold.  But that's one of the parts of this film I cherish, its willingness-- both from the filmmakers and especially their subjects-- to show us their warts and all.  Perhaps we need to remember that these men are real people with fragile minds not heroes to honor just because.  For me that's why they're really heroes, not for battling the evil Taliban, but attempting to solve the unsolvable, by trying to win the unwinnable, for not standing by as a country falls to tyranny.  They sacrifice it all without question, as a solider must.   But god I wish we'd let them walk away.  Grade: A-.

Buried (2010)

I like what Ryan Reynolds said on the making of this film, something along the lines that this is the type of film Hitchcock would have made if he had had this script.  It's true, except they didn't have cellphones back then.  What an entertaining thriller with a near-perfect performance from Ryan Reynolds.   Just when you think the film makers had done all that they could with such a small space, they give us even more tense moments.  It almost makes you wonder why no one had done this before, besides a scene in Kill Bill: Vol. 2, or half an episode of Alias.  Rodrigo Cortés should be applauded for his vision and ability to surprise us.   The script is also very good.  My only complaint is that I wanted more phone conversations.  It's smart that he must conserve the cell's battery life but if I would have been in that situation I would have called a lot more people and I would have liked him to, especially to say his goodbye.  Grade: A-.

Spoiler on ending:  the ending was exactly what needed to happen.   Sure it's a bummer ending but it's the most effective.  I would have liked it if it were less rushed, especially when he gets a hold of his wife, but that's just me.  I also would have liked it if he had tried a little more to dig himself out of there.    Even if it meant being bite by a snake.        

Dogtooth (2010)

Bizarre.  Not so much surrealism as an absurd horror film, Yorgos Lanthimos deliberately unsettling film keeps the audience engaged not with story but with a string of shocking moments.  The basic premise, I guess, is a wacko father and mother (if they really are the kids true parents) raise their three teenage kids in complete isolation, telling them elaborate stories about why they must never leave the compound they live.  Yet even as they attempt to keep their children safe, "evil" finds its way into corrupting them.   Exactly what Lanthimos is trying to say is completely subjective, if he's trying to say anything.   While I liked this film for it's inventive, creepy and experimental nature I can't recommend it to just anyone.   This is for people who like to step outside the traditional concept of storytelling.  But if you're daring to venture outside your own compound of isolation you might find this film rewarding.  Such a film needs another rating system because I keep going back and forth: I liked this film, but I didn't really like it, yes I liked it, in fact I loved it, but I hated it, I wanted to like it but it wasn't as good as it could have been, but how else could it have been better, it was average but it's a stylized masterpiece, it's so-so.  As of today I give it the following: Grade: B+.

A Star Is Born (1937)

The original film that has gone on to inspire two remakes and possibly more.   It's story of a girl, Vikki Lester, with dreams of stardom coming to Hollywood to fall in love and have her dreams come true but with a cost.  The most interesting parts of the film deal with how Hollywood works, or at least how Hollywood portrays itself working, how the old studio system manufactures every aspect of a star's "look" and how it's not about the script but about pleasing the public.   The rest of the movie is a melodramatic love story that focuses on her husband's issues with his failing career and his struggles with alcoholism.   This is where the film structural is different.  The first part of the film is about Vikki Lester but the second part of the film is about Norman Maine, making it his story.   While it doesn't hold up that much anymore, it has its charming moments and a strong ending.  Grade: B.

Note on a possible remake:  I've read that Clint Eastwood was considering making this again with Beyonce as the star.  I hated the idea until I considered how much has changed.   With agents, and red carpet walks, and press junkets and the Internet, seeing how a star is born today,  if done with honesty, would be really intriguing.  I only hope they change it up some and develop more dynamic characters.

Animal Kingdom (2010)

An Australian crime drama about a teenage boy who moves in with his grandma and his criminal uncles only to be forced into a situation of survival.  Jacki Weaver earned an Oscar nomination this year for her portrayal of the grandma Janine Cody, a evil lady that says "sweetie" like its the most manipulative word in the English dictionary.  I'm not sure if her performance ranks as one of the top five of the year but she is good.   The film starts off at a slow boil but by the end the tension and dramatic pull of the story picks up speed.  I remember thinking in the first fifteen minutes, "Why does this film have such a good reputation?" only for it to improve minute by minute until its ending gave me goosebumps.  What a great last image (of which I'm not going to spoil).  As director David Michod's first film, I have to say I'm pleased and hope we have the start of a promising new talent.   If you go into this movie expecting a shoot'em up crime film, you'll be disappointed.  It's a wonderful dramatic, believable family drama that just happens to be about killers.  Grade: B+.  

Spoiler: If I have one complaint, which is a minor one, is that I would have liked it if Michod had given us some, not a lot, but some of J's testimony at trial.  I understand he felt we didn't need to see any of the trail, but I was left confused for a moment on what had transpired.  I even thought J was going to trick the Codys' lawyer and actually testify against his uncles.  Not a big deal, but I'd have liked to have seen the expression on Guy Pierce's face when he realized he failed in helping J.