Django Unchained (2012)

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Rated: R
Length: 165 min.

Django Unchained made its premiere on Christmas Day, and was the best present a movie lover could ask for. Quentin Tarantino's unique style of direction was yet again on full display on this celebrated holiday. His incorporation of multiple music genres included songs from the likes of rap superstars Rick Ross and Tupac Shakur, whom of which gave this Western a much more modern feel to it. Christoph Waltz (Dr. King Schultz), who shined as the Nazi "Jew hunter" in Inglorious Basterds, once again stole the show with his wonderful depiction of a highly intelligent, fearless bounty hunter on a mission to provide equality for all. Jamie Foxx was a great lead for the role of Django, and his transformation of character made for a very interesting plot outcome. As to be expected, Leonardo DiCaprio (Calvin Candie) played the role of the villain to the tee, and was surprisingly easy to hate, which is hard to contemplate considering the role he usually plays of the archetypal hero. The extremity of gore and violence was all too familiar in this Tarantino picture, and sometimes seemed to take things too far. The explicit racism of this film was excessive and ridiculous, but probably fairly accurate to this pre-Civil War era film. Although the bigotry and violence was a bit much, it all came together so well at its conclusion. All in all, this was the best film I've seen this year. If this film doesn't win best picture, I have no hope for humanity. Go see it as soon as possible, but be ready for a blood bath.

End of Watch (2012)

Director: David Ayer

Rated: R

Length: 109 min

From the director of Traning Day, David Ayer brings to life yet another heroic tale of two cops who roam the streets of South Central, forced to face the harsh reality of this treacherous neighborhood. Brian Taylor (Jake Gyllenhall) and Mike Zavala (Michael Pena) are partners who play off of each other extremely well, providing a colorful commentary to follow throughout the film. However, this film is not all fun and games, the people they encounter on a daily basis have nothing to lose and are ready to kill at any moment. Taylor and Zavala play the role of a young, reckless, and courageous tandem who take down the hardened criminals of the most ruthless gangs in the entire country. The reality of this film is almost too much to handle in some cases, for it presents a very gruesome depiction of how the life of a police officer can truly be. The cinematography of this film is shown mostly through a hand held camera from the first person perspective, which adds to the excitement of every scene. But this film does also convey the familial side of police life, showing the sensitive side of these hardnosed cops, which they must keep hidden behind their day jobs. This very realistic and heartfelt story is a must-see for all action junkies, and might even spark the interest of a small portion of the female audience, especially with the studly antics of Jake Gyllenhall. End of Watch.

Skyfall (2012)

Director: Sam Mendes

Rated: PG-13

Length: 143 min.

 

In everything you would expect from a Bond film, director Sam Mendes adds a highly entertaining, but somewhat predictable chapter to the 007 legacy. From high intensity fight sequences to multiple love affairs with extremely attractive women; this film has all the pieces needed to create another Bond classic.  With amazing scenery that ranges from the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai to the immensely desolate foothills of Scotland; the variety in cinematography makes this a fun-filled adventure for all to enjoy. Although there may never be another Bond like the archetypal Sean Connery, Daniel Craig is a close second with his classy style and cool demeanor that he portrays with onscreen perfection. Javier Bardem (Silva) was a fantastic choice for the villain in this film, but that is to be expected from an actor of his caliber, who has proven himself to be amongst the elite with performances in such films as No Country for Old Men and Biutiful. However, with yet another unsurprising and outlandish plot, this film fails to reach the level of astonishment that I had expected from such a critically acclaimed motion picture. I hope the next Bond film will live up to its expectations. For the best films are those of which stimulate the mind, wouldn't you agree? Skyfall.

 

Flight (2012)

Director: Robert Zemeckis
Rated: R
Length: 138 min.
 

Have you ever wondered what it'd be like to be in a plane crash? How safe would you feel if your pilot was drunk? In Director Robert Zemeckis' film Flight, Whip Whittaker (Denzel Washington) plays the role of a drug/alcohol addicted pilot who can't seem to overcome the temptation of being intoxicated. In a very intense crash sequence in which the sense of panic and desperation can be felt immensely by the viewer, Whip is forced to make a crash landing in an abandoned field in order to save the lives of the 102 passengers on board. And even though he lands successfully and saves the lives of 96 on board, six lives were still lost. Due to his alcoholism, Whip was highly intoxicated when performing his duties, leaving a strong sense of negligence in the minds of families who'd lost loved ones. Was the crash attributed to his drinking problem? I leave that up to you to decide. With a star studded cast that includes the likes of Denver native Don Cheadle (Hugh Lang), the very talented Bruce Greenwood (Charlie Anderson), along with the hysterical antics of John Goodman (Harling Mays); this film soared. The hippie drug dealer that Goodman portrays provides a perfect sense of comic relief to a film that covers much more serious real life issues ranging from drug/alcohol abuse to moral ethics. Zemeckis, who also directed one of my all-time favorites in Forrest Gump, does another fantastic job with his choice of soundtrack; especially with the film's theme song played repeatedly throughout; the Rolling Stones' famous track, 'Gimme Shelter.' All in all, this film delivers a powerful message in how honesty conquers all. It may have been a little strung out at times, but in the end it left me with a sense of satisfaction by viewing the magnificent performance put on by the ever-so versitile Denzel Washington, in yet another transformative role.

Milk (2009)

Director: Gus Van Sant

Rated: R

Length: 128 min.

 

In an era where homosexuality was being met with an iron fist at the hands of police brutality and segregation between the gay and straight workplace, Harvey Milk (Sean Penn) decided it was time for a change. With the help of a great supporting cast, including James Franco (Scott Smith) as his original partner, Emile Hirsch as a fellow campaign worker and gay rights activist, along with his Latin lover, the ever-so talented Diego Luna (Jack Lira); this film oozed inspiration.
“My name is Harvey Milk and I’m here to recruit you.”

In this inspiring film of how a homosexual man changed the face of history with his courage and persistence, Harvey Milk transforms from dirty hippie into the most likable politician we’ve seen in quite some time.

Penn earned his Oscar for best actor in this film by truly transcending the gay man in a discriminatory society. He fully encompassed himself into his character.

At first, I must admit that I was moderately skeptical as if I was going to like the film or not, but I was left with a feeling of satisfaction in my reflection of the film.

I felt a mix of consistent laughter and pure silence in admiration of this film’s entertaining, but also very tragic storyline. This is easily the best film I’ve seen in quite some time.

Director Gus Van Sant’s use of split cinematography between actual news footage and film footage made the film feel as a though it was a historical retelling of one of the most revolutionary innovators of our society today.

Milk gave his life for what he believed in, and that is something to be admired.

Van Sant breaks down all previous sexual walls and openly depicts male to male intimacy with little to no filter.

This film made me feel a sense of remorse for homosexuals growing up during this time period, for the scrutiny they received from the outside world was relentless and unnecessary.

This film leaves a somber audience with a strong message as it come to a conclusion.

Harvey Milk will forever be remembered in my heart.

The Campaign (2012)

Director: Jay Roach

Rated: R

Length: 85 min.



The grouping of two of the most entertaining comedians of our generation should have been a ballpark home-run; however The Campaign fails to get my vote. As to be expected, Will Ferrell (Cam Brady) has a number of one-liners that did give me a nice chuckle from time to time, but as a whole I expected more out of these comedic juggernauts. I was mostly disappointed with Zach Galifianakis (Marty Huggins,) who played a role similar to that of his character in Due Date; the awkwardly short and tubby, questionably homosexual, pug loving pansy; whereas Ferrell plays an incredibly similar role to that of his character Ricky Bobby from the film Talladega Nights; the cocky, arrogant asshole who will do anything in his power to pave the way to victory. This film played on all the political stereotypes of big money funding political campaigns, dirty campaign ads, back-door deals, ungodly dealings and candidate sexual incompetency. Mid way through the film the level of absurdity reaches a point of complete and utter disbelief, in which you no longer care about the plot’s final outcome. And, as the film reaches its conclusion, you are left with a forgettable feeling in your memory and a dissatisfied feeling in your wallet, because you just shed out 10 bucks to see a mediocre film. I would wait for this one to come out on Redbox, regular cable or just skip it all together; this is no must see. The Campaign.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Director: Christopher Nolan

Rated: PG-13

Length: 165 min.



In one of the most anticipated summer blockbusters of all-time...The Dark Knight "Falls." I am disappointed to say that my original hypothesis that this film would be completely ridiculous and over the top came true. I wanted so badly to be wrong about my sequel policy; that any film that goes for the three-peat, fails epically in trying to outdo the two already incredible films that preceded it. The Dark Knight is easily one of my favorite films of all-time and I was absolutely taken in by the film from start to finish. One of the main reasons being Heath Ledger, and the astounding job he did as The Joker. Tom Hardy (Bane) was also a very entertaining villain in this film, but he reminded me too much of a beefy Hannibal Lector. Unfortunately this film could not even be saved by up and coming star Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Blake). In all honesty, the best performance of the film goes to Anne Hathaway (Catwoman), which is surprising even to me, considering I had little to no respect for her work prior to this film. Overall, the film dialogue was extremely poor and the plot was incredibly absurd and hard to follow; however, the cinematography, music synchronization, and battle sequences were all top quality, as to be expected from a Christopher Nolan film.The final verdict on The Dark Knight Rises is obviously to go see it, and see for yourself if you agree with my conclusion. All critiquing and film dissection aside, my heart goes out to all the victims lost in the Aurora cinema shooting; I just hope we can soon again feel safe and find comfort in going to the movies as a family.

Wanderlust (2012)



Director: David Wain

Rated: R

Length: 98 min.



In this story of a couple who seem to have lost their way but find their true selves in an intentional community (hippie commune), Paul Rudd is the only moderately comical part of this film. Jennifer Aniston, who is always fun to look at, doesn't even scrape the surface of how entertaining she was in films like Horrible Bosses and The Break-Up. The only part worth watching in the entirety of this film involves a monologue in which Rudd is giving himself a motivational speech for his future sexual encounter. I can only hope that Rudd will continue to produce comedies on the level of I Love You, Man and Role Models. All in all, I would say this film (which was recommended to me by a friend) failed to reach the full potential I expected from this uproarous cast. Even for all you un-bathed tree-huggers out there who enjoy a good story about those who find themselves in love, laughter, and happiness; not even you will fall under the spell of this hippie b.s. In the few times I did happen to laugh at this poor excuse for a romantic comedy, I quickly lost interest in yet another predictable plot outcome. I mean what the hell does Wanderlust even mean?! Let me know if ya figure it out...

Project X (2012)

 Director: Nima Nourizadeh

Rated: R

Length: 88 min.

In a firsthand portrayal one of the most belligerent house parties known to man, Project X is a fun filled adventure from start to finish. With great syncs of both soundtrack and slow motion shots, this mockumentary displayed a number of scenes with incredible transitions. However, with a poor dialogue and level of absurdity that reaches a point of unbelivability; this film fails to reach its full potential. As a kid we all dream of throwing a party of this magnitude, but we also are not completely ignorant to the consequences of our actions like our boy Thomas here. There is a fairly good message on display in this film, for it shows us the significance of being responsible, but also tricks us into believing "if you build it, they will come." Overall I found the film to be highly entertaining, but also moderately ridiculous at the same time. If you're looking for loud music, naked women, and excessive partying, this is the film for you.

The Skin I Live In (2011)

 Director: Pedro Almodovar

Rated: R

Length: 120 min.

In one of the most sexually disturbing thrillers I have ever seen, director Pedro Almodovar creates a world of unforgivable fate for those who have taken advantage of the weak. With some of the most gracefully synchronized cinematography and soundtrack since A Clockwork Orange, there are multiple scenes throughout the film that evoke an intense emotional outpour from the audience. This "in your face" thriller will keep you consistently on your toes. Not only does this film have a spectacular back drop in the city of Toledo, Spain; but it also inculdes the likes of stunning Spanish actress, Elena Anaya (Vera Cruz). And for those of you (like my mother), who can't handle a healthy amount of sexual passion and nudity, just stick to The Notebook in the PG-13 safety zone;) However, I must admit that even I found myself questioning my own emotional reactions to the plot as it unfolds onscreen. All in all, I'd say I enjoyed the film, for it produces an ample amount of audience involvement; even though it struggles on the fronts of dialogue and supporting cast. I have always said that the ending to a film is all that truly matters, and this film's conclusion will leave you to ponder about how optimistic you'd be about the possibility of a new life...I think we all need to take a step back and take a good hard look at The Skin I Live In.

Prometheus (2012)

 Director: Ridley Scott

Rated: R

Length: 124 min.

Surprise, surprise...For the umpteenth time a sci-fi thriller failed to produce the level of excitement that it had been hyped up to be. With incredible scenery and astounding special effects that rival that of Avatar, this film still fails on all the truly important aspects of film; plot, direction, and dialogue. The subsequent prequel to what some regard as the best sci-fi film of all time, Alien (with the exception of Star Wars of course;), this was nowhere near the level of astonishment that I had expected from a Ridley Scott film. For those of you who enjoy the visual appeal of a film, this delivers on all counts; but for all you science buffs out there looking for a truly epic scientific adventure, go ahead and just watch the re-run of the original Star Wars trilogy on Spike TV. The unfortunate part about this film is that it had so much promise to be an intriguing film at its beginning; but with little to no plot explanation, this film was extremely hard to follow. Not to mention the fact that the originality of this film was about a 2 on the shock and awe scale. I mean how many times have we seen space explorers reach another planet to find extra terrestrials? I remember my first sci-fi film (it was E.T. and I was 9). When are we going to move on from this obsession with aliens? I mean grow-the-f@*% -up. Prometheus.

The Avengers (2012)

 Director: Joss Whedon

Rated: PG-13

Length: 143 min.

After walking out of what claimed to be this summer's superhero blockbuster (next to The Dark Knight Rises of course), I left the movie theater feeling only one thing...disappointment. With the exception of the always entertaining Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), the cheesy dialogue and ridiculous special effects made for another over dramatized superhero melodrama. I expected more from the star studded cast that included the likes of the ever-so elegant Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) and timeless stars like Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury). Although filled with action from start to finish, this film lacked any sense of plot direction to which I became easily bored with the story onscreen. Don't let yourself be drawn in by gigantic explosions and flamboyant costume design, this is just another cheap imitation of a comic that didn't translate well onto the big screen. Hopefully Christopher Nolan's Batman will save the summer superhero film by producing another quality chapter to his already impressive collection. As for The Avengers, I think its time for them to pack up and call it day. We can only hope that the studio doesn't subject us to another abysmal excuse for a sequel to this mediocre film. The Avengers.

Carnage (2011)

 Director: Roman Polanski

Rated: R

Length: 80 min.

In this Roman Polanski film about the difficulties of parenting violent young adolescents, we find that our children can help bring out our truest emotions. Polanski, who has directed such great films as The Pianist, does a terrific job with both role reversal of characters and portrayal of absolute absurdity. Michael & Penelope Longstreet (John C. Reilly & Jodie Foster) play the parents of the abused child who are trying to find a civilized way to work out a solution for the brutal altercation that took place between the two children. On the other hand, Alan & Nancy Cowan (Christoph Waltz & Kate Winslet) could care less about their child's violent course of action. Waltz portrays the inconsiderate corporate businessman to a tee, which is reminiscent of the antagonist he played in Inglorious Basterds. As the film progresses and the Cowans can't seem to leave the Longstreet household for a number of ridiculous reasons, the true emotions of the characters are unveiled. What was originally a civilized conversation between adults, evolves into a therapeutic session for both couples to work out their own marital issues. The obvious noticeable difference in social class is particularly apparent in the film's beginning, but the consistent variation in character bonding breaks down that barrier and makes for a fun filled adventure with a very realistic conclusion. I thoroughly enjoyed this film from start to finish, and Polanski does a fantastic job in displaying the oddity of the situation at hand. I would suggest this film to all you oddballs out there who enjoy a good laugh and can appreciate the awkwardness of everyday life. Carnage.

Rabbit Hole (2010)

 Director: John Cameron Mitchell

Rated: R

Length: 91 min.

In one of the most depressing films I've seen in quite some time, Aaron Eckhart (Howie) and Nicole Kidman (Becca) struggle to cope with the most recent death of their 4 year old son. In most cases I am drawn to tragedy in a film, for it usually accompanies an optimistic outcome; but at the end of this film I felt as though I had lost a son myself. And this may have been the reaction that director John Cameron Mitchell had tried to evoke from the audience, but I personally did not find this reaction appealing. In the hour and a half that this film takes place, I think I smiled (a smirk at that), once in its duration. This film was entirely too disheartening for my taste, and can turn a perfectly enjoyable afternoon and take a big dump right in the middle of it. I would not recommend this film to a single one of my friends, unless of course they have the odd desire to go into a state depression for the next hour and a half. As critically acclaimed as this film was, the final outcome did not make any extreme emotional transformation in me, and that I consider to be a failure on the director's behalf. Definitely skip this one on date night, unless you're trying make a hint at an upcoming break up. Rabbit Hole.

Midnight in Paris (2011)

 Director: Woody Allen

Rated: PG-13

Length: 94 min.

This is a film that perfectly displays the enchanting effects a city, such as Paris, can have on the hopelessly romantic. Owen Wilson (Gil) lets his imagination run wild, as he aimlessly wanders this city of love. Upon encountering so many of the artists and writers that have helped mold the structure of artistic society as we know it today, Wilson is endlessly inspired by the imaginary world that he travels to every night. With a star studded cast ranging from Adrien Brody (Salvador Dalí) to Kathy Bates (Gertrude Stein), there is never a dry moment. I, like Gil, was taking away with the pure and simplistic beauty of Marion Cotillard (Adrianna), who previously starred opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in one of my all time favorite films, Inception. The story that enfolds onscreen is that of a confused young man who falls in love with a city, and in turn finds his true artistry; along with a beautiful young woman to accompany his new found glory. Writer/Director Woody Allen, although an oddball by nature, does a great job in capturing the essence of the city; while also showing the audience the obvious lack of chemistry between couples, perfectly portraying the awkwardness of every situation. I see a bit of Allen in Wilson's character, and considering he was both writer and director of the film, I wouldn't be surprised if he wrote this script from the first person perspective. All in all, good film; not at all what I expected from Allen, but I would say if you have been to Paris, let yourself fall in love again, and those of you who have not...Be prepared to be swept off your feet;) Midnight in Paris.

The Descendents (2011)

 Director: Alexander Payne

Rated: R

Length: 115 min.

Now for someone who sees George Clooney (Matt King) as an outdated pretty boy, who only gets roles for his good looks and charm, it is rare for me to like one of the films that he is involved in; but in this case I was pleasantly surprised. Even with my pre-biased opinion towards Clooney, I found a sort of sympathy for the character he plays in this film, and ultimately wanted him to succeed in parenting his two misbehaved daughters. This film shows you how tragedy can sometimes bring together those who are normally estranged to rise above their differences in order to reach a heartfelt conclusion. Newcomer Shailene Woodley (Alexandra King), takes over this film as the surprising star, and truly shows the acting talent of a woman twice her age. The disregard for obscenity by the youngsters in the presence of elders (Clooney in particular), make for a comical allusion to the very non-comical circumstances that this family has been placed in. Clooney ultimately overcomes his obstacles as a father and comes into his own as the authoritarian figure. When the dust settles, and all that is lost is forgiven and forgotten, family shines through as all that is needed to get through these difficult times. Although it had its moments of sorrow, overall I think this film makes for a good old fashioned, happy ending. See it. The Descendents.

Biutiful (2010)

 Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu

Rated: R

Length: 148 min.

This incredibly heartbreaking tale of the difficulties of raising a family while facing multiple obstacles along the way makes for an endearing conclusion to an exceptionally well-made film. Javier Bardem (Uxbal) has a few more lines than he did in his Oscar winning performance in No Country For Old Men, (which unlike the rest of the world I find to be highly overrated); he really shows the audience his versatility in this film and I now have much more respect for him as an actor. Although this is one of the saddest films I have seen in quite some time, I could not draw my eyes away from the screen for one single moment during its progression. The director of this film, Alejandro González Iñárritu does a wonderful job of displaying the emotions of the characters as they are frequently changing throughout the film. At film's end, you feel a sense of pity for Bardem for the situation he has been put in, and yet you are almost relieved to find him in a final state of peace. Fantastic film overall, but not one for a romantic dinner and movie type evening; more along the lines of a solitary viewing with the hope that you will appreciate the sincerity of the film's direction and come to sense the emotional reaction Iñárritu was trying to abstract from the audience. Biutiful.

Thank You for Smoking (2005)

Director: Jason Reitman
Rated: R

Length: 92 min.

In this original comedy about the chief spokesperson of Big Tobacco and his consistent ability to deviate away from the dangers of cigarette use, Aaron Eckhart (Nick Naylor) fits into his role perfectly. The cruel and twisted advertisement schemes that the tobacco industry thrive upon are thoroughly exploited in this witty film of how one man argues his way out of every stcky situation he finds himself in. The very attractive young Katie Holmes (Heather Holloway), plays a wonderfully seductive journalist trying to get the scoop on the MOD sqaud; aka Merchants Of Death, which include the lobbyists from the alcohol, tobacco and firearms industries. Eckhart is accompanied by both David Koechner (Bobby Jay Bliss) and Maria Bello (Polly Bailey), who both play incredible roles as his accomplices in their fight against society and the oppression of their big businesses. All in all, this was a highly entertaining film with multiple laughs at the pure absurdity of these cutthroat business men and women. The film concludes with a stern morality check, and shows that even the big fish get eaten from time to time. Thank You for Smoking.

Blue Valentine (2010)

Director: Derek Cianfrance

Rated: R

Length: 112 min.

The magnificent performances displayed by both Ryan Gosling (Dean) and Michelle Williams (Cindy) in this film are ultimately overshadowed by a lingering conclusion, leaving the audience with multiple unanswered questions at film's end. In some cases I thoroughly enjoy the fact that the director leaves the audience to interpret the ending for themselves as to how this story would continue on in real life; but in this case, there was too much left unsaid. This tale is an incredibly sad one, with some intensely graphic sexuality, sometimes so much so that you feel the need to look away. This film takes you on a journey of the discovery of a young couple who fall in love too early, have children too soon and aren't ready to take on the responsibility of their adolescent mistakes. Gosling has soon become one of my favorite up and coming actors. With each film I see him in he truly envelops his character's persona, making you truly believe he is not an actor, but just an ordinary man with ordinary problems. This is true in this instance as well, although I must admit that I was expecting more out of the film as a whole, and sadly it doesn't deliver the kind of emotional appeal that I had hoped for. Blue Valentine.

The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Director: Wes Anderson

Rated: R

Length: 91 min.

This star studded cast consisting of Owen Wilson (Francis), Jason Swartzman (Jack), and the incredibly talented Adrien Brody (Peter); come together in this highly entertaining oddball comedic adventure, that is...The Darjeeling Limited. The plot is based upon the hysterics that ensue on the journey of three brothers trying to find themselves in the holiest place on earth: India. The three leads play off each other extremely well, and make for a highly amusing dialogue to follow throughout the film. All three brothers play uniquely different roles in the picture. Wilson, being the eldest of the three, feels the false necessity to act as the father figure of group (which his brothers resent), seeing as their father has recently passed. Swartzman plays that of the lost lover who can't seem to let go of his ex. Brody is the most worrisome case of the three, for he is constantly taking things that aren't his because of his issues coping with the death of their father, along with his uncertainty in the upcoming birth of his child. In the end, the three brothers find that brotherhood is the most important thing in life, and their companionship is all they need to get by. If you want to take a ride on the peculiar side while having a laugh or two, this is the film for you.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

Director: Michel Gondry

Rated: R

Length: 108 min.

In this very strange, but quirky romantic tale of the odd couple, Jim Carrey (Joel Barrish) and Kate Winslet (Clementine Kruczynski), we find that some people can never truly be forgotten. Carrey plays a lost man, bored senseless, who can't seem to find his way until he makes a chance encounter with Winslet. Clementine seems to be a bit on the crazy side, but in this case, she is just the bit of crazy that Joel Barish needs in his life at this time. For Winslet, this is a dramatic transformation from her roles in such films as Titanic, where she plays the rebellious young lover of Leonardo DiCaprio. But in this film she finds a way into the audience's heart, maybe its her constant alteration of vibrant hair color, or maybe its her unpredictably cute behavior; but somehow we all fall in love in the end. This is not your typical love story and it leaves a bit lingering at the film's conclusion, but it shows us that love is something that cannot be forgotten, no matter how hard we try to erase it from our minds forever. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Half Nelson (2006)

Director: Ryan Fleck

Rated: R

Length: 106 min.

In this inspiring story of the developing relationship between a student and teacher who are working through the hardships of their lives, Ryan Gosling (Dan Dunne) shines. Most people know Gosling for his roles in such romantic films as The Notebook and Lars and the Real Girl, but in this film he truly shows his dynamic acting ability by perfectly portraying someone struggling to break their habit. Director Ryan Fleck does a great job of demonstrating the secret life of a teacher who molds young minds by day, but drifts back into his perilous habit by night; surrounding himself with the frequent faces of immorality. It seems as though his student, Shareeka Epps (Drey), is the only one who truly understands the misunderstood teacher, for she too lives in a world of disarray. As the film comes to a conclusion, there is nothing solved or accomplished, just the promise of a new day and a second chance at life. For those of you looking to see Gosling play the role of another alluring hearthrob, go ahead and skip this one; for the realistic depiction of this cruel world is not a pretty portyal for this typical stud. Half Nelson.

Hotel Rwanda (2004)

Director: Terry George

Rated: PG-13

Length: 121 min.

This exceptionally moving film plays out history as it was; yet it lacks a realistic quality in its production. Overall, not a bad film. Certainly not as fantastic as I had anticipated from an Academy Award winning film, especially considering the acting ability of the great Don Cheadle (Paul Rusesabinga); who displayed his talents in unforgettable films such as Crash.  Although not accompanied by many other star contributors (with the exception of Joaquin Phoenix, (Jack Daglish), Cheadle still puts together a stellar performance in this remarkable true story. Not every film you see is going to have you talking about it days after its conclusion,  for only certain films have the ability to invoke that kind of reaction. However, this Colorado native carries this deeply emotional, heart driven film, from start to finish. Cheadle plays the awe inspiring role of a father turned leader, caught between a mass genocide of his people and saving his hotel. Director Terry George makes it easy for the audience to sympathize with the situation with which these people are placed in. And with little to no help, Cheadle manages to save the lives of thousands of innocent Rwandans. Hotel Rwanda.

City of God (2002)

Director: Fernando Meirelles

Rated: R

Length: 130 min.

After viewing this film for the very first time this evening, all I have to say is WOW...This is a film that makes you truly appreciate the world you live in and how priveledged you are. In the unforgiving slums of Rio de Janeiro, these young kids are forced to deal with the hardships of death and despair due to the world of poverty that they have been brought up in. The cinematography of this film is some of the best I've ever seen, and plays perfectly into the emotional triggers of every specific scene. The jump cuts that director Fernando Meirelles uses play an ideal role in setting up the audience for the consistent violence throughout the film. The narration of this film is told through the eyes of the main character, Alexandre Rodrigues (Rocket). As you can see from the title of this film, religion plays a key role in the narrative. Rocket, who is extremely religious himself, is dealt a shit poor hand in the game of life, but eventually surprises everyone, including himself, by taking the pot so to speak.  As the film progresses you almost become used to the constant bloodshed, for the realistic quality of this film is surreal. And even though this film is an accurate depiction of the difficulties of growing up in the poorest places on earth, there is a very endearing quality to this story as well. The emotional rollercoaster this film takes you on seems to be neverending, endlessly unsure if you're going to make it to its climatic conclusion. This is an absolute must see, and I would recommend it to any and all movie goers. City of God.

The Illusionist (2006)

Director: Neil Burger

Rated: PG-13

Length: 110 min.

With a variety of stars ranging from one of my personal favorties in Edward Norton (Eisenheim), the always stunning Jessica Biel (Sophie), and the ever-so versitile Paul Giamatti (Inspector Uhl); you would expect this film to be a ball park home run, unfortunately this is not the case. Without the poor dialogue or cheap magic imitations this film would have some real promise, but the truth of the matter is that Edward Norton, who displayed his talent in such epics as American History X, and my all-time favorite film, Fight Club; plays a role that is inferior to the acting quality he is capable of producing. The beauty in both scenery (Vienna) and of leading lady (Biel), can only take a film so far. The small twist at the end does leave you pondering about the film for a moment, but that moment is lost in the recollection that you no longer care why or how the plot has come to its conclusion. Do not fall under the "illusion" that this is a good film, and can definitely be passed up upon the screen of your local Redbox. But for you disbelievers out there, go see for yourself, only if you wished to bored into a stupor for the next hour and a half. The Illusionist.