The best reason to see this film is to check Emmanuelle Chriqui out. I mean if Shakira makes a man want to speak Spanish- Emmanuelle make you want to speak Arabic for sure!
The Movie itself was funny, offered a tremendous wealth of laughable Jewish, and Palestinian stereotyping, to the point of completely out-spoofing any previous attempts.
Overall it is pretty wacky, and it will entertain you to a certain degree.
And underneath all the irony and humor the message is clear- Make Love Not War!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Thursday, June 5, 2008
The Foot Fist Way
This one is a winner.
Why?
Hmmm....
If you have seen the preview and if you have seen other movies featuring Danny R. McBride then you can easily imagine the type of assininities that come out of this guys mouth.
This film starts with our hero, small-time Tae Kwon Do instructor Mr. Fred Simmons, pretty much being a complete arrogant ass to one and all that he comes across. Despite being such a jerk he has somehow managed to build up a nice little dojo with very cute, and endearing membership.
This movie's success creeps up on you....I did not really notice at which point in the movie it occurred, but at some point you see that Mr. Simmons (jerk that he is) is actually not such a bad guy underneath it all, and some of the other characters with whom he interacts are much bigger asses than he is, and at this point you are on his side...
Its very different, low budget "reality TV" style filming adds to its originality, and worked out very well.
I highly recommend it as a refreshing change from the blockbuster formula which can become tedious.
Why?
Hmmm....
If you have seen the preview and if you have seen other movies featuring Danny R. McBride then you can easily imagine the type of assininities that come out of this guys mouth.
This film starts with our hero, small-time Tae Kwon Do instructor Mr. Fred Simmons, pretty much being a complete arrogant ass to one and all that he comes across. Despite being such a jerk he has somehow managed to build up a nice little dojo with very cute, and endearing membership.
This movie's success creeps up on you....I did not really notice at which point in the movie it occurred, but at some point you see that Mr. Simmons (jerk that he is) is actually not such a bad guy underneath it all, and some of the other characters with whom he interacts are much bigger asses than he is, and at this point you are on his side...
Its very different, low budget "reality TV" style filming adds to its originality, and worked out very well.
I highly recommend it as a refreshing change from the blockbuster formula which can become tedious.
The Strangers
If there were an award for Creepiest Movie of the Year then this movie would win it hands down!!!!
That really sums up the review.
It was well made. It taps into those deep feelings of fear, despair, and surprise that horror movie watchers seek, but it just went over the top in the creepiness department.
Watch it and see.
That really sums up the review.
It was well made. It taps into those deep feelings of fear, despair, and surprise that horror movie watchers seek, but it just went over the top in the creepiness department.
Watch it and see.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Baby Mama
This is a movie that frankly does not have much to offer as far as a cinematic experience goes.
The premise upon which this comedy was based, by itself just did not have enough comedic meat to sink your teeth into. The concept of a surrogate mother carrying another woman's child in her womb allowed only a few awkward situations to arise, and since it is so rare, very few people can relate.
Having said that, Tina Fey added whatever charm the movie had, and I hope to see more movies with her in them.
Thanks.
The premise upon which this comedy was based, by itself just did not have enough comedic meat to sink your teeth into. The concept of a surrogate mother carrying another woman's child in her womb allowed only a few awkward situations to arise, and since it is so rare, very few people can relate.
Having said that, Tina Fey added whatever charm the movie had, and I hope to see more movies with her in them.
Thanks.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Indiana Jones....The 4th installment
Alright...
On this one you can't fairly try to compare it with Raiders of the Lost Ark, one of the top classic movies of all time. If you expect any movie to have even half the impact that Raiders had at the time of its release, then give it up. It just ain't gonna happen.
In order to judge this film you just have to compare it with current films. When you look at it in this light, then you are in for a treat, because today's market does not offer a similar experience.
It has several action sequences that cause you to say...."yeah right! that could never happen!" as can be expected. But I think that that is part of the fun of going and watching one of these films, We don't get to defy reality in our daily lives so Spielberg allows us a vicarious defiance when we watch the film.
I have to hand it to the scriptwriters, because they managed to find things that sparked our interest in this film once again.
Indiana Jones once again shows us that his extreme Knowledge of such varied subjects makes him extremely competent, a trait that sets him apart from other heroes.
And the overall message of the film is that Knowledge is Golden!
On this one you can't fairly try to compare it with Raiders of the Lost Ark, one of the top classic movies of all time. If you expect any movie to have even half the impact that Raiders had at the time of its release, then give it up. It just ain't gonna happen.
In order to judge this film you just have to compare it with current films. When you look at it in this light, then you are in for a treat, because today's market does not offer a similar experience.
It has several action sequences that cause you to say...."yeah right! that could never happen!" as can be expected. But I think that that is part of the fun of going and watching one of these films, We don't get to defy reality in our daily lives so Spielberg allows us a vicarious defiance when we watch the film.
I have to hand it to the scriptwriters, because they managed to find things that sparked our interest in this film once again.
Indiana Jones once again shows us that his extreme Knowledge of such varied subjects makes him extremely competent, a trait that sets him apart from other heroes.
And the overall message of the film is that Knowledge is Golden!
Monday, May 19, 2008
The Fall
OK.....This is a hard movie to review because I have mixed feelings about it. But here goes.
I can say without any reservations that the filming itself, in this movie, is totally awesome! Different than any style of shooting that I have ever seen making the film a unique film with a style all to its own. Breathtaking views, crazy scenery and landscapes, imaginative perspectives, etc. Big plus.
That being the film's biggest attraction, I'll say that the acting was also quite good, and in the case of the heroin... a 5 year old Hungarian girl, I would have to say she did a remarkable job and made the movie work.
The story tempo, I must let you know, is more than a little on the slow side, so if you are impatient...then this film is not for you. If you don't mind letting the story just move along step, by turtle step, then you'll be fine.
The story, or the director's rendition of the story, definitely takes a turn into strange lands, and strange depictions of fantasies, so to put it bluntly, it gets pretty wierd. Again it is a matter of taste, so you will know if you like movies where the wierdness factor exceeds 7 on a a scale of 1 to 10.
And finally, the story goes down the "sad- let's try to jerk some tears" path, the question is can our young heroine save our hero (and the audience too at this point), and get him to turn around and head back into happyland in time to avoid an early demise?
Go see it if you are fine one the points above, but if you are not one to enjoy slow, sad, strange movies, then it may not be for you.
Narnia - Prince Caspian...was pretty good if I may say so!
This episode was actually better than than the first one by far!
Why? well first of all there was A LOT more humor in this one. There were so many witty little jokes and fitting one liners that just had the audience rolling constantly.
The crowd may have influenced my opinion of the film. I saw it at the El Capitan theatre- and it was packed- so we were all paying at least 15 bucks, and those in the VIP seats which take up the majority of the good seats pay around 20! My point is that the audience wanted to get their money's worth and were very much participating and alive!
This show also was much more upbeat....sure it had its points of failure where the characters had to reassess their situations...but the plot did not dwell on those and they moved on to the next challenge at hand. Very good move.
The battle scenes were much better also. The scenery was good too as in the first one.
A strong message was interwoven into the story- the moral of the story? Believe in yourself regardless of whether or not others believe in you or not! Truth! Truth! Truth!
Congratulations to Disney! They have a winner.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
What Happens In Vegas
Cameron Diaz got a chance to dazzle us once again in this one. She sports a tanned body, which we get to see a lot of in this movie, and she shows that she is aging very well...Oh yeah!!! Still quite the little hottie!!!
Lake Bell most definitely added flavor as a scrumpcious side dish. She was just awesome!
And where the hell has Rob Corddry been hiding all these years! He suddenly emerges and co-stars in three top hit comedies...(Heartbreak Kid, Harold and Kumar escape from Guantanamo Bay, and this one) and he was much funnier than Ashton!
And is it just me or was Ashton Kutcher actually wearing a toupee most of the movie?
Yes the movie had some laughs....Ha Ha Ha....
And overall it had a very positive message: Marriage is a good thing...you may have to work out the kinks...but it is well worth it!
Good date flick...
Lake Bell most definitely added flavor as a scrumpcious side dish. She was just awesome!
And where the hell has Rob Corddry been hiding all these years! He suddenly emerges and co-stars in three top hit comedies...(Heartbreak Kid, Harold and Kumar escape from Guantanamo Bay, and this one) and he was much funnier than Ashton!
And is it just me or was Ashton Kutcher actually wearing a toupee most of the movie?
Yes the movie had some laughs....Ha Ha Ha....
And overall it had a very positive message: Marriage is a good thing...you may have to work out the kinks...but it is well worth it!
Good date flick...
Friday, May 9, 2008
Go Speed Racer Go!!!!
I watched it opening night and thoroughly enjoyed it!
The things that Speed Racer is able to do with his car in this film are so far beyond anything that has ever been thought up before, that it is hard for some viewers (or should I say critics) to accept.
He can do flips, grind it on the edge of the track, jump, defend other friendly drivers, bump other cars off the track. I mean just thinking up the moves that that car does in the movie is truly remarkable!
The level of visual creativity has gone beyond what anyone could have predicted!
After reading some of the brutal reviews I got to thinking and analyzing how could this be? How could a movie this creative recieve such reviews? It boggles my mind. So I went to watch the film again today just to see if I could wrap my wits around it.
And ironically I concluded that these overcritical critics are paralleling the villains in the movie itself! The core of the plot- Small family owned business goes up against monster corporation threatening to devour all in its path. In the movie itself Speed Racer and his family are villified by the media- which is nothing more than a controlled voicepiece for the big corporations. So these movie critics are just following suit. Another theory is that they are just so lost in their conservative ways and the status quo of samo samo action movies that Speed Racer went off of their radar, and they weren't even able to percieve its brilliance!
Speed stands for fair competition, and love of the sport. His example is inspirational to anyone in any field! And my god it was fun to watch!
He remained true to his goals, and kept his integrity clean.
Great story! Great for kids! And I loved it too!
The things that Speed Racer is able to do with his car in this film are so far beyond anything that has ever been thought up before, that it is hard for some viewers (or should I say critics) to accept.
He can do flips, grind it on the edge of the track, jump, defend other friendly drivers, bump other cars off the track. I mean just thinking up the moves that that car does in the movie is truly remarkable!
The level of visual creativity has gone beyond what anyone could have predicted!
After reading some of the brutal reviews I got to thinking and analyzing how could this be? How could a movie this creative recieve such reviews? It boggles my mind. So I went to watch the film again today just to see if I could wrap my wits around it.
And ironically I concluded that these overcritical critics are paralleling the villains in the movie itself! The core of the plot- Small family owned business goes up against monster corporation threatening to devour all in its path. In the movie itself Speed Racer and his family are villified by the media- which is nothing more than a controlled voicepiece for the big corporations. So these movie critics are just following suit. Another theory is that they are just so lost in their conservative ways and the status quo of samo samo action movies that Speed Racer went off of their radar, and they weren't even able to percieve its brilliance!
Speed stands for fair competition, and love of the sport. His example is inspirational to anyone in any field! And my god it was fun to watch!
He remained true to his goals, and kept his integrity clean.
Great story! Great for kids! And I loved it too!
Monday, May 5, 2008
REDBELT very big surprise!
This is a movie I had heard NOTHING about whatsoever. The first I heard anything about it was was when I was walking in to see Ironman, there was a promotional stand showing some still shots of some of its scenes, and it sai REDBELT on it. I took a look and it caught my eye.
I read a synopsis, and decided to go watch it.
This movie packs a hell of a punch.
It centers around the Jujitsu sport/martial art form. Our star is married to a beautiful Brazilian babe, who he presumably met when he was down in Brazil learning the moves under the Master Sensei. The Brazilian culture has embraced this martial art form and therefore the film has its share of Brazilian actors in it. This gives the movie a very fresh, new feel since brazilian actors seldom get into the mainstream silverscreen. Our primary "Belleza" Alice Braga shines in this film, bringing to life the Brazilian passion we like to see.
The story is very unusual, and it is fast paced. Believe me it is not a predictable story at all, things change so fast, that you simply have to enjoy the ride.
It is a film that juxtaposes greed, and honesty, and in showing us one interpretation their various facets, allows us to reflect and see that the choices that this Jujitsu Master, convincingly portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor has to make are not dissimilar to the smaller less dramatic choices each and every one of us face every day.
I truly recommend this movie, it is heartfelt and deep.
I read a synopsis, and decided to go watch it.
This movie packs a hell of a punch.
It centers around the Jujitsu sport/martial art form. Our star is married to a beautiful Brazilian babe, who he presumably met when he was down in Brazil learning the moves under the Master Sensei. The Brazilian culture has embraced this martial art form and therefore the film has its share of Brazilian actors in it. This gives the movie a very fresh, new feel since brazilian actors seldom get into the mainstream silverscreen. Our primary "Belleza" Alice Braga shines in this film, bringing to life the Brazilian passion we like to see.
The story is very unusual, and it is fast paced. Believe me it is not a predictable story at all, things change so fast, that you simply have to enjoy the ride.
It is a film that juxtaposes greed, and honesty, and in showing us one interpretation their various facets, allows us to reflect and see that the choices that this Jujitsu Master, convincingly portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor has to make are not dissimilar to the smaller less dramatic choices each and every one of us face every day.
I truly recommend this movie, it is heartfelt and deep.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Harold and Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay
If this movie were not a complete "let's go get stoned! It's cool!" advertisement, I would recommend it as a comedy.
Overlooking that one drawback I will say that it was funnier than the original Harold and Kumar go to White Castle, perhaps due to the extreme situations they put themselves in.
No race goes un-insulted in this one. Each ethnicity gets jabbed at from one angle or another at some point in the film. This is truly what makes the film funny. It takes one outside the social box, and allows us all to laugh at some of the stupidities that have become stereotypes, and some of the realities we accept in our melting-pot culture.
A positive message of tolerance actually emerges out of all of this racial irony.
If you want to have some laughs go see it, but please don't be persuaded to go and smoke marijuana afterwards.
Overlooking that one drawback I will say that it was funnier than the original Harold and Kumar go to White Castle, perhaps due to the extreme situations they put themselves in.
No race goes un-insulted in this one. Each ethnicity gets jabbed at from one angle or another at some point in the film. This is truly what makes the film funny. It takes one outside the social box, and allows us all to laugh at some of the stupidities that have become stereotypes, and some of the realities we accept in our melting-pot culture.
A positive message of tolerance actually emerges out of all of this racial irony.
If you want to have some laughs go see it, but please don't be persuaded to go and smoke marijuana afterwards.
IRONMAN - It Delivered!
I went to see it opening night at the Arclight Hollywood Cinerama Dome. It was the 12:01 AM sold-out showing. When I walked into the ticket line I noticed an oddity, no one was in line. The center of attention had shifted to the center of the room. I looked around and spotted some secret service security looking dude, undercover, with an earpiece and I thought, ok...where is the big celeb?
I then looked to the right and saw a huge fellow wearing a Dallas Cowboys jersey. I recognized him from the film Swingers- it was Jon Favreau! The director! I let my eyes continue their Terminator-esque scan, allowing my inborn facial recognition software to do its job and voila! standing next to Jon was Ironman himself Robert Downey Jr !
Ok, no big deal! so I go in, sit down, the crowd is excited. Now keep in mind this is a Thursday night, and there are about a thousand people here to watch a comic book movie. To introduce the film, Jon comes out, announces Robert Downey Jr. who gives a little speech, the crowd responds very well to this little unexpected extra, and then the movie starts!
I have to say that I liked it a lot!
Our hero's pivotal realization that selling weapons is not the solution to world peace is a message I cannot agree with more.
The special effects are awesome, and really put you there. Very engaging visual effects!
The display of gadgetry is truly out of this world, fun for the whole family! Robert Downey Jr. adds his own sense of humor and style to the role, and I must say I can find no flaws there. Gwyneth Paltrow was hot as usual, but I don't think she was utilized to her fullest.
Was it the best superhero movie ever? I would not go that far....But it certainly was entertaining as hell!! And it definitely will take its rightfully earned place up there with all the other cool superhero movies. If I had to rate it myself, I'd say, it was not as good as Batman Begins, as good as Spiderman and better than Superman Returns, and Fantastic 4! How's that for a rating? Go enjoy it!!
I then looked to the right and saw a huge fellow wearing a Dallas Cowboys jersey. I recognized him from the film Swingers- it was Jon Favreau! The director! I let my eyes continue their Terminator-esque scan, allowing my inborn facial recognition software to do its job and voila! standing next to Jon was Ironman himself Robert Downey Jr !
Ok, no big deal! so I go in, sit down, the crowd is excited. Now keep in mind this is a Thursday night, and there are about a thousand people here to watch a comic book movie. To introduce the film, Jon comes out, announces Robert Downey Jr. who gives a little speech, the crowd responds very well to this little unexpected extra, and then the movie starts!
I have to say that I liked it a lot!
Our hero's pivotal realization that selling weapons is not the solution to world peace is a message I cannot agree with more.
The special effects are awesome, and really put you there. Very engaging visual effects!
The display of gadgetry is truly out of this world, fun for the whole family! Robert Downey Jr. adds his own sense of humor and style to the role, and I must say I can find no flaws there. Gwyneth Paltrow was hot as usual, but I don't think she was utilized to her fullest.
Was it the best superhero movie ever? I would not go that far....But it certainly was entertaining as hell!! And it definitely will take its rightfully earned place up there with all the other cool superhero movies. If I had to rate it myself, I'd say, it was not as good as Batman Begins, as good as Spiderman and better than Superman Returns, and Fantastic 4! How's that for a rating? Go enjoy it!!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Pathology
This film definitely would be nominated for the "sickest flick" oscar if such a category existed.
A clique of psychotic, drugged out, sex crazed, murdering MD pathologists, play a game to see who can create the perfect undetectable murder. Will newcomer Dr. Ted Gray (played by Milo Ventimiglia) fit in or wimp out? That is the question...
The props are nasty- when the resident doctors start performing autopsies cutting into tissue, sawing into skulls, pulling skin back, and cracking ribs to get at the entrails, it all looks pretty freaking real. I have a pretty tough stomach but I was grimacing through some of the scenes, so if you don't like gore, don't go to this one.
It is a game of Dark vs Darker, or you could even say Darker meets Darkerer.
You definitely don't walk out of the theater feeling good, and actually the premise that some highly educated members of our society could be so anti-social is a little frightening.
Alyssa Milano played Gwen a the gorgeous fiance. And her evil competitor Dr. Bath was seductively played by Lauren Lee Smith
Only go watch it if you are in a very dark mood.
A clique of psychotic, drugged out, sex crazed, murdering MD pathologists, play a game to see who can create the perfect undetectable murder. Will newcomer Dr. Ted Gray (played by Milo Ventimiglia) fit in or wimp out? That is the question...
The props are nasty- when the resident doctors start performing autopsies cutting into tissue, sawing into skulls, pulling skin back, and cracking ribs to get at the entrails, it all looks pretty freaking real. I have a pretty tough stomach but I was grimacing through some of the scenes, so if you don't like gore, don't go to this one.
It is a game of Dark vs Darker, or you could even say Darker meets Darkerer.
You definitely don't walk out of the theater feeling good, and actually the premise that some highly educated members of our society could be so anti-social is a little frightening.
Alyssa Milano played Gwen a the gorgeous fiance. And her evil competitor Dr. Bath was seductively played by Lauren Lee Smith
Only go watch it if you are in a very dark mood.
Friday, April 25, 2008
21
This one is a must see if you are planning on going to Vegas any time soon.
It will get you pumped up and you will probably go out, buy a couple of decks of cards and try to see if you can count cards the way the pull it off in the movie.
It had a good level of Vegas action, the plot keeps you interested.
Kate Bosworth is strikingly georgeous as usual in this hip piece and she adds the right touch of female heat to the show at the right places.
Kevin Spacey and Lawrence Fishburn added the necessary weight to their rolls helping viewers over 21 years of age to take the movie seriously.
Although I strickly abide by a no movie spoiler policy, I can say that if you watch Tom Cruise's closing speech in Risky Bussiness you will see that our new up and coming "21" star Jim Sturges goes through a similar metamorphosis. After struggling with questions of ethics, reality, easy money and payback he emerges with a lesson he shares eloquently in the end!
Enjoy it!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
My Blueberry Nights
This one was different for sure.
This is a sentimental, slow, let's try to be deep and mysteriously interesting kind of love story.
It was directed by a Chinese director, Kar Wai Wong, and you can definitely feel that asian touch throughout.
The star of the show Norah Jones was fun to watch co-miserating with fellow actors.
To be totally honest, I felt like screaming at them, "Come on people! stop being and acting so sad! you don't have to be so sad and dreary! you can do better than that!!! Be Happy!!! Smile!!!"
It would have not made a difference, as this is one of those movies that the director purposely makes really sad and slow, to give the viewer the idea that he is not really doing so bad in comparison to those he is watching.
This is a sentimental, slow, let's try to be deep and mysteriously interesting kind of love story.
It was directed by a Chinese director, Kar Wai Wong, and you can definitely feel that asian touch throughout.
The star of the show Norah Jones was fun to watch co-miserating with fellow actors.
To be totally honest, I felt like screaming at them, "Come on people! stop being and acting so sad! you don't have to be so sad and dreary! you can do better than that!!! Be Happy!!! Smile!!!"
It would have not made a difference, as this is one of those movies that the director purposely makes really sad and slow, to give the viewer the idea that he is not really doing so bad in comparison to those he is watching.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Just saw Forgetting Sarah Marshall and it was good!
Yes it was good. Good is a fitting word for it. No, I don't want to "get down on my knees and pledge my undying love for it" as the radio ad says, but it was good.
The most outstanding part of the movie is the exotic beauty of our georgeous newcomer Mila Kunis! My God, I could drown my sorrows in those eyes any day! My only question is how has it taken Hollywood this long to discover this natural beauty?
Aside from Mila's awesome performance, there were a lot of laughs.
If you liked Knocked Up, or Superbad, or The 40 Year Old Virgin, all directed by Judd Apatow then you will already know where this film is going. A little true love, awkward funny situations, a lot of drama, raunch, alcohol, and some laughs.
I give it a thumbs up.
The most outstanding part of the movie is the exotic beauty of our georgeous newcomer Mila Kunis! My God, I could drown my sorrows in those eyes any day! My only question is how has it taken Hollywood this long to discover this natural beauty?
Aside from Mila's awesome performance, there were a lot of laughs.
If you liked Knocked Up, or Superbad, or The 40 Year Old Virgin, all directed by Judd Apatow then you will already know where this film is going. A little true love, awkward funny situations, a lot of drama, raunch, alcohol, and some laughs.
I give it a thumbs up.
88 Minutes : It should be re-titled "88 Wasted Minutes That I Am Never Going To Get Back!"
It is always fun to watch a new Al Pacino movie, just because watching him reminds you of Scarface, and The Godfather. Aside from that, this movie really had nothing to offer.
I really don't get it. It is just such a fruitless plot.
A forensic psychiatrist being targeted by one of the killers he professionally testified against...? I mean come on, let's think of a better plot? Please scriptwriters!!!!
The whole movie is just a bunch of cheesy suspects all confusingly twisted together with no possible way to even be remotely able to guess or figure out who the bad guy really is.
80% of the movie's dialogue is done over cell phones giving you the idea that you are watching an extended wireless phone ad.
At one point it becomes almost too ridiculous to bear: Al, and his hot student, who happens to carry a gun in case her stalker ex-husband shows up, are both lurking into an apartment on an investigatory mission both with guns drawn acting like members of a swat team!!! They forgot they were a psychiatrist and a psychiatry student!!!
Anyway....trust me, use your 88 Minutes wisely and go watch a different movie!!
I really don't get it. It is just such a fruitless plot.
A forensic psychiatrist being targeted by one of the killers he professionally testified against...? I mean come on, let's think of a better plot? Please scriptwriters!!!!
The whole movie is just a bunch of cheesy suspects all confusingly twisted together with no possible way to even be remotely able to guess or figure out who the bad guy really is.
80% of the movie's dialogue is done over cell phones giving you the idea that you are watching an extended wireless phone ad.
At one point it becomes almost too ridiculous to bear: Al, and his hot student, who happens to carry a gun in case her stalker ex-husband shows up, are both lurking into an apartment on an investigatory mission both with guns drawn acting like members of a swat team!!! They forgot they were a psychiatrist and a psychiatry student!!!
Anyway....trust me, use your 88 Minutes wisely and go watch a different movie!!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Forbiden Kingdom It was Fantastic!
Before watching it I did have some pre-conceived notions. Jackie Chan isn't really that funny, the previews look cheesy, etc. etc.
Those negative ideas all vanished as if by magic as soon as the movie started. And it was magic! The movie itself was 100% magic!
It is a movie that makes you wonder why has this not been thought of before? The concept of throwing a defenseless white boy into the middle of an ancient Chinese Kung-fu battleground actually worked out really well!
And why would it not? Let's face it Kung-fu movies have left their mark on American culture. Bruce Lee is as much of an icon in America as he is in China. Hence the brilliance of grabbing a boy from Boston and magically transporting him into "Kung-fu Land".
The special effects were awesome!
The kid gets to learn Kung-fu, and there are plenty of cool fighting scenes including them catching plenty of air flying around kicking each other.
I thoroughly recommend it to anyone.
Those negative ideas all vanished as if by magic as soon as the movie started. And it was magic! The movie itself was 100% magic!
It is a movie that makes you wonder why has this not been thought of before? The concept of throwing a defenseless white boy into the middle of an ancient Chinese Kung-fu battleground actually worked out really well!
And why would it not? Let's face it Kung-fu movies have left their mark on American culture. Bruce Lee is as much of an icon in America as he is in China. Hence the brilliance of grabbing a boy from Boston and magically transporting him into "Kung-fu Land".
The special effects were awesome!
The kid gets to learn Kung-fu, and there are plenty of cool fighting scenes including them catching plenty of air flying around kicking each other.
I thoroughly recommend it to anyone.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
I am glad that I saw Prom Night
Why would I be glad that I went and saw a seemingly meaningless slasher film?
Because the film reinforces the stupidity of the psychiatric influence in the courtrooms.
Brittany Snow, did a great job playing a character who witnessed a brutal murder by a psycho. The psycho is obsessed with her. After being caught instead of being convicted and executed, he was given a lighter sentence due to an "Insanity Plea".
The officer in charge of the case mentions his frustration. His frustration is mirrored in this quote from a brilliant article on the subject "Law enforcement officials have a hard time keeping up with increasing crime. It is even more disheartening for them to gather the evidence against a defendant and see his conviction lessened or exonerated because of psychiatric or psychological testimony excusing the crime."
The lead also pops psychiatric pills, but makes a very interesting comment. She tells her aunt that she is not taking any pills on prom night."I don't want to be numb tonight" she says. And she is totally right. I was like good for you! don't take them pills! you don't need them!
It kills me that even though it is common knowledge that these pills do nothing beneficial for you and actually harm and numb your perceptions, people still fall prey to psychiatrists who prescribe them like candy.
Congratulations to Brittany Snow for starring in her first #1 movie. I know we'll be seeing more of her.
Because the film reinforces the stupidity of the psychiatric influence in the courtrooms.
Brittany Snow, did a great job playing a character who witnessed a brutal murder by a psycho. The psycho is obsessed with her. After being caught instead of being convicted and executed, he was given a lighter sentence due to an "Insanity Plea".
The officer in charge of the case mentions his frustration. His frustration is mirrored in this quote from a brilliant article on the subject "Law enforcement officials have a hard time keeping up with increasing crime. It is even more disheartening for them to gather the evidence against a defendant and see his conviction lessened or exonerated because of psychiatric or psychological testimony excusing the crime."
The lead also pops psychiatric pills, but makes a very interesting comment. She tells her aunt that she is not taking any pills on prom night."I don't want to be numb tonight" she says. And she is totally right. I was like good for you! don't take them pills! you don't need them!
It kills me that even though it is common knowledge that these pills do nothing beneficial for you and actually harm and numb your perceptions, people still fall prey to psychiatrists who prescribe them like candy.
Congratulations to Brittany Snow for starring in her first #1 movie. I know we'll be seeing more of her.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Just saw Street Kings! I recommend it!
Keanu is back at it again. He did a good job in this movie. It was fun, entertaining and dark.....
It kept me interested for the most part. It had definite elements of Training Day in it....if you saw that movie the parallel is unmistakable....a corrupt cop who had the keys to the streets.
But in this movie there is a different angle. Keanu plays an LA detective who acts more like a self proclaimed 00 agent with a license to kill, and yet is a pawn in a bigger game of honest cop vs. corrupt cop that he only begins to piece together as the plot coagulates under the rising body count. In this aspect it definitely borrowed elements from LA Confidential.
Forest Whitaker got a chance to play a role different than the sensitive caring roles he usually plays and you can tell it was a relief for him, as he readily embraced this role, adding strength to the films underlying theme- becoming a Street King.
Plot aside the film is packaged into an up-to-date modern look, Keanu wears a polo shirt, and oakley shades when not undercover, and he drives a black 2008 Dodge Charger- turbo, of course. This all adds to the coolness that is the main thing about the movie that made it fun.
Another part I liked was the nurse he is hooked up with, Martha Higareda. Her presence is a definite plus. I will be on the lookout for her next film!
I will add that although the fabric of the yarn could have been woven with more art, it nevertheless had an extremely powerful message that causes one to question, and at the same hope, that there are still powerful men in our governing bodies who have true honesty and integrity.
So long as you don't go into it expecting it to be as deep or as satisfying as the movies it resembled, Training Day and LA Confidential, you will have a good time, and enjoy it. I certainly did.
It kept me interested for the most part. It had definite elements of Training Day in it....if you saw that movie the parallel is unmistakable....a corrupt cop who had the keys to the streets.
But in this movie there is a different angle. Keanu plays an LA detective who acts more like a self proclaimed 00 agent with a license to kill, and yet is a pawn in a bigger game of honest cop vs. corrupt cop that he only begins to piece together as the plot coagulates under the rising body count. In this aspect it definitely borrowed elements from LA Confidential.
Forest Whitaker got a chance to play a role different than the sensitive caring roles he usually plays and you can tell it was a relief for him, as he readily embraced this role, adding strength to the films underlying theme- becoming a Street King.
Plot aside the film is packaged into an up-to-date modern look, Keanu wears a polo shirt, and oakley shades when not undercover, and he drives a black 2008 Dodge Charger- turbo, of course. This all adds to the coolness that is the main thing about the movie that made it fun.
Another part I liked was the nurse he is hooked up with, Martha Higareda. Her presence is a definite plus. I will be on the lookout for her next film!
I will add that although the fabric of the yarn could have been woven with more art, it nevertheless had an extremely powerful message that causes one to question, and at the same hope, that there are still powerful men in our governing bodies who have true honesty and integrity.
So long as you don't go into it expecting it to be as deep or as satisfying as the movies it resembled, Training Day and LA Confidential, you will have a good time, and enjoy it. I certainly did.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Dan In Real Life
This movie was not really worth the time.
Sure it is kind of cute and funny in some parts....but so unrealistic
and the family scenes are so fake.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
1:55 AM Just finished THE ZODIAC
Man I should not have put this movie on at 11 PM....
Why? because it turned out to be a very interesting never ending investigation movie.
I thought it was going to be a gory horror/investigation flick, but actually the murders, which are pretty nasty take place in the first quarter of the movie.
After that it is layer upon layer of confusing evidence, red tape, further layers of investigatory politics and bureaucracy, all managing to show us another unseen side of what goes on behind the scenes of crime investigations.
And without spoiling the ending I can say that it shows that old time investigation was a lot harder than the guys on CSI Miami make it look.
Overall I recommend the film.
Just don't start watching it late at night if you want to get some sleep... OK?
Why? because it turned out to be a very interesting never ending investigation movie.
I thought it was going to be a gory horror/investigation flick, but actually the murders, which are pretty nasty take place in the first quarter of the movie.
After that it is layer upon layer of confusing evidence, red tape, further layers of investigatory politics and bureaucracy, all managing to show us another unseen side of what goes on behind the scenes of crime investigations.
And without spoiling the ending I can say that it shows that old time investigation was a lot harder than the guys on CSI Miami make it look.
Overall I recommend the film.
Just don't start watching it late at night if you want to get some sleep... OK?
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
OK! I saw Step Up 2 The Streets
Yes, I know...why would I go and see Step Up 2 The Streets?
Well, fine, I have always liked breakdancing from the first time it got started. I was in 10th grade in 1984 the first time I learned to do the wave. I learned how to do it by copying one of the kids in the Lionel Richie "All Night Long" music video. I lived in Caracas Venezuela at the time- attending an international highschool. And I tell you....just being able to do "the wave" I managed to entertain quite a few awestruck audiences... It was fun!
Fast forward 22 years and here I am going to check out the latest and greatest in inter-racial break/street/hood/battle dancing all packaged into one movie...Step Up 2 The Streets.
OK in order to enjoy the movie you do have to be able to push certain things out of your mind. For example, the fact that the star, Briana Evigan is a gorgeous, cute, clean-cut white girl and is trying to play the part of a "bad girl from the hood". just ain't gonna work. She was is just too sweet and cute to be anything but a rich suburban white girl...But she looks good when she dances, so she is officially forgiven.
Cassie also got to strut her stuff, and I think they could have afforded to give her a little more participation....but I guess they feared that she would steal too much from the lead.
What else...
Also, my one of my co-workers pointed out that the story is repeated over and over...it is the same movie as a million others that came before it.
And that is basically a true statement. But what my co-worker does not realize is that when there is a successful formula then you can keep expanding upon it.
If Flashdance Managed to make millions back in the 80s, and Dirty Dancing made millions in the 90s, then why can't you make another dance movie that will be creative and fun to watch, and have it be a success?
That is what I think happened, because I must admit, it was enjoyable for the most part, the dance routines were fun and creative.
There was one point, most such movies have them, where it all looked grim, it seemed like our starlet was not going to be able to achieve her hip hop dream...and sad music played on and on and on, and it went on too long....I almost started crying not because the content was sad....rather just because the "sad" part was dragging on too long...and that error saddened me.
But overall you should have a couple of laughs...
Well, fine, I have always liked breakdancing from the first time it got started. I was in 10th grade in 1984 the first time I learned to do the wave. I learned how to do it by copying one of the kids in the Lionel Richie "All Night Long" music video. I lived in Caracas Venezuela at the time- attending an international highschool. And I tell you....just being able to do "the wave" I managed to entertain quite a few awestruck audiences... It was fun!
Fast forward 22 years and here I am going to check out the latest and greatest in inter-racial break/street/hood/battle dancing all packaged into one movie...Step Up 2 The Streets.
OK in order to enjoy the movie you do have to be able to push certain things out of your mind. For example, the fact that the star, Briana Evigan is a gorgeous, cute, clean-cut white girl and is trying to play the part of a "bad girl from the hood". just ain't gonna work. She was is just too sweet and cute to be anything but a rich suburban white girl...But she looks good when she dances, so she is officially forgiven.
Cassie also got to strut her stuff, and I think they could have afforded to give her a little more participation....but I guess they feared that she would steal too much from the lead.
What else...
Also, my one of my co-workers pointed out that the story is repeated over and over...it is the same movie as a million others that came before it.
And that is basically a true statement. But what my co-worker does not realize is that when there is a successful formula then you can keep expanding upon it.
If Flashdance Managed to make millions back in the 80s, and Dirty Dancing made millions in the 90s, then why can't you make another dance movie that will be creative and fun to watch, and have it be a success?
That is what I think happened, because I must admit, it was enjoyable for the most part, the dance routines were fun and creative.
There was one point, most such movies have them, where it all looked grim, it seemed like our starlet was not going to be able to achieve her hip hop dream...and sad music played on and on and on, and it went on too long....I almost started crying not because the content was sad....rather just because the "sad" part was dragging on too long...and that error saddened me.
But overall you should have a couple of laughs...
Monday, April 7, 2008
Why I thought the Matrix can be watched again and again
The Matrix, man that is one movie that really really stood out from the rest.
several key elements allowed that to happen. Let me elaborate.
It came out when I was liviing in Japan. I was in Tokyo at the time and had been there for several years. In a conversation I had with a japanese co-worker he mentioned that he had read that some of the scenes in the Matrix were inspired by japanese animes or mangas....and he was particularly excited to see it.
It was a movie that I went into not knowing anything about it. I had no expectations other than some hype I had heard about it. I had also seen a couple of the shoot'em'up previews....other than that nothing....
It had so many cool elements intertwined into an awesome story. Love, prophesies fulfilled, destiny, purposes, dedication, faith, religion, trust, martial arts, human potentiality, awareness levels,
One key element were the different emotional tones that the characters have or go through
Neo goes from an apathetic Mr. Anderson, to an all Knowing Neo.
Morpheus starts out with a high emotional tone and only for a second falters at one point when he sees Neo die
Agent Smith seems to be stuck in Hate and Anger. Fascinating....
Another point that the film nailed was the evil that can be perpetrated by a government body ie the Agents in The Matrix were very similar to Psychiatrists in the world we live in today.
The arrogant way in which the agents make an attempt to coerce Mr. Anderson (before his emancipation) is very similar to the way a Nazi Gestapo agent would have done it, or the way a Psychiatrist would do it with a patient, and where Agent smith resorted to planting an electronic virus into Mr. Anderson's belly, a psychiatrist could resort to heavy medications or electroconvulsive shock treatment. Nasty stuff.
The inclusion of Martial arts was so freaking genius also, and to see Neo and Morpheus going at it in the training room was a great way to start the training for Neo.
And finally the way he rises above the entrapment of the Matrix and in the end masters it...is a goal that all bonafide religions have sought for man.
Overal on a scale of 1 to 10....I give the Matrix a 12!!!!!
several key elements allowed that to happen. Let me elaborate.
It came out when I was liviing in Japan. I was in Tokyo at the time and had been there for several years. In a conversation I had with a japanese co-worker he mentioned that he had read that some of the scenes in the Matrix were inspired by japanese animes or mangas....and he was particularly excited to see it.
It was a movie that I went into not knowing anything about it. I had no expectations other than some hype I had heard about it. I had also seen a couple of the shoot'em'up previews....other than that nothing....
It had so many cool elements intertwined into an awesome story. Love, prophesies fulfilled, destiny, purposes, dedication, faith, religion, trust, martial arts, human potentiality, awareness levels,
One key element were the different emotional tones that the characters have or go through
Neo goes from an apathetic Mr. Anderson, to an all Knowing Neo.
Morpheus starts out with a high emotional tone and only for a second falters at one point when he sees Neo die
Agent Smith seems to be stuck in Hate and Anger. Fascinating....
Another point that the film nailed was the evil that can be perpetrated by a government body ie the Agents in The Matrix were very similar to Psychiatrists in the world we live in today.
The arrogant way in which the agents make an attempt to coerce Mr. Anderson (before his emancipation) is very similar to the way a Nazi Gestapo agent would have done it, or the way a Psychiatrist would do it with a patient, and where Agent smith resorted to planting an electronic virus into Mr. Anderson's belly, a psychiatrist could resort to heavy medications or electroconvulsive shock treatment. Nasty stuff.
The inclusion of Martial arts was so freaking genius also, and to see Neo and Morpheus going at it in the training room was a great way to start the training for Neo.
And finally the way he rises above the entrapment of the Matrix and in the end masters it...is a goal that all bonafide religions have sought for man.
Overal on a scale of 1 to 10....I give the Matrix a 12!!!!!
Speed Racer - May 9th!
I must admit I am pretty excited about the upcoming release on May 9th- Speed Racer. Aparently it is the first project that the Wachowski Brothers are writing and directing since The Matrix. The Matrix was totally awesome- before it came out my interest in movies in general was waning, but it seemed to bring a whole new standard into the movie making world.
One reason I liked it was that it really showed how bad suppression can be.
So I think Speed Racer is going to be pretty cool.
For one, the special effects just look awesome! The casting seems flawless,
it seems to bring back memories that will boost people out of their daily depression and into a world of action where anything is possible.
Very much looking forward to it!
One reason I liked it was that it really showed how bad suppression can be.
So I think Speed Racer is going to be pretty cool.
For one, the special effects just look awesome! The casting seems flawless,
it seems to bring back memories that will boost people out of their daily depression and into a world of action where anything is possible.
Very much looking forward to it!
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