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.