The Plot: Jenna is a pregnant, unhappily married pie cook in the deep south. She meets a newcomer to her town and falls into an unlikely relationship as a last attempt at happiness.
The Pros: As corny as the plot may sound, this is a truly excellent film. The beautifully-rounded characters suck you in with their personalities and sheer energy. This is much sweeter and grown-up than movies that try and force themselves to be sweet. And the way the pies are filmed as they're being made can only be described as sensuous.
The Cons: The humor in the first 5 - 10 minutes of the film was not as perfect as the humor in the rest of Waitress. But that is a very, very minor gripe.
The Bottom Line: I have a very hard time thinking of things that are wrong with this movie, but perhaps that's because there aren't many. Waitress is one of the sweetest films ever made, and both the maturity and witty directness of the screenplay help give it that status. As I exited the theater, my entire being exuded pure happiness. Do yourself a favor and see this movie.
The Score: 9 / 10
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Live Free or Die Hard
The Plot: John McClane takes on an Internet-based terrorist organization who is systematically shutting down the United States.
The Pros: This is a fun little action movie. Bruce Willis, as usual, is the biggest badass of all time; in fact, he almost makes the movie.
The Cons: "Yippee-ki-yay, mother f--" oh, wait. John McClane doesn't get to finish his obligatory line because this movie is rated PG-13. It really does almost kill the entire film. It's also not nearly bloody enough, and the profanity is cut short because of the rating. Some of the action scenes are so absurd and CG-ified, it detracts from the Die Hard experience.
The Bottom Line: Live Free or Die Hard is a smorgasbord of typical modern action-movie fun and utter stupidity. While Bruce Willis really is the saving grace of this movie, he's not quite enough to convert this mixed bag into a true Die Hard film; it just doesn't feel like one. Maybe it's the PG-13 rating, or the lack of the words "mother fucker"; whatever it is, one thing is sure: they just missed the mark on this one.
The Score: 6.5 / 10
The Pros: This is a fun little action movie. Bruce Willis, as usual, is the biggest badass of all time; in fact, he almost makes the movie.
The Cons: "Yippee-ki-yay, mother f--" oh, wait. John McClane doesn't get to finish his obligatory line because this movie is rated PG-13. It really does almost kill the entire film. It's also not nearly bloody enough, and the profanity is cut short because of the rating. Some of the action scenes are so absurd and CG-ified, it detracts from the Die Hard experience.
The Bottom Line: Live Free or Die Hard is a smorgasbord of typical modern action-movie fun and utter stupidity. While Bruce Willis really is the saving grace of this movie, he's not quite enough to convert this mixed bag into a true Die Hard film; it just doesn't feel like one. Maybe it's the PG-13 rating, or the lack of the words "mother fucker"; whatever it is, one thing is sure: they just missed the mark on this one.
The Score: 6.5 / 10
Saturday, June 23, 2007
La Vie en Rose
The Plot: The tale of the tormented life of Edith Piaf, a legendary french singer.
The Pros: Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith Piaf is magnificent. No, it's groundbreaking. In fact, it's really what makes this movie what it is. The performance is huge, passionate, and moving. There are a few very fine dramatic moments (not due to the film, but to the brilliance of Ms. Cotillard).
The Cons: The film overall wasn't incredibly impressive; the screenplay didn't give Cotillard a whole lot to work with. Relationships were not explored nearly as deeply as they should have been, and there was too much drama without the build to counter it. Unfortunately, the film gave off a very traditional biopic feel...and that's not a good thing.
The Bottom Line: La Vie en Rose is a pretty good movie, but that's not what you'll be paying attention to. Marion Cotillard steals the show as the larger-than-life Piaf is reincarnated before your eyes. If you see this movie, see it for Cotillard. She deserves a viewing. If it weren't for her, this film would most likely not be able to stand on its own two feet.
The Score: 7 / 10
The Pros: Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith Piaf is magnificent. No, it's groundbreaking. In fact, it's really what makes this movie what it is. The performance is huge, passionate, and moving. There are a few very fine dramatic moments (not due to the film, but to the brilliance of Ms. Cotillard).
The Cons: The film overall wasn't incredibly impressive; the screenplay didn't give Cotillard a whole lot to work with. Relationships were not explored nearly as deeply as they should have been, and there was too much drama without the build to counter it. Unfortunately, the film gave off a very traditional biopic feel...and that's not a good thing.
The Bottom Line: La Vie en Rose is a pretty good movie, but that's not what you'll be paying attention to. Marion Cotillard steals the show as the larger-than-life Piaf is reincarnated before your eyes. If you see this movie, see it for Cotillard. She deserves a viewing. If it weren't for her, this film would most likely not be able to stand on its own two feet.
The Score: 7 / 10
Friday, June 22, 2007
Mr. Brooks
The Plot: A psychological thriller about a man who is sometimes controlled by his murder-and-mayhem-loving alter ego.
The Pros: Kevin Costner is incredible as Earl Brooks. He is subtle, yet uses high emotion when it's crucial. This movie is a highly disturbing, yet wonderfully fascinating thriller that's well-planned and well-executed. Also, Dane Cook is actually pretty good, as is Demi Moore.
The Cons: The "Dane Cook-age" in Cook's character comes out from time to time. There's an action scene near the end of the film that feels entirely out of place and brings the viewer out of the world for a few minutes.
The Bottom Line: Mr. Brooks is a taut, intense, and mature psychological thriller that really delivers the goods. The performances are very good overall, but notable is Kevin Costner's mastery over the main character. Though a few things take you out of the experience occasionally, Mr. Brooks more than makes up for them with it's sheer tenacity and entertainment value.
The Score: 8.5 / 10
The Pros: Kevin Costner is incredible as Earl Brooks. He is subtle, yet uses high emotion when it's crucial. This movie is a highly disturbing, yet wonderfully fascinating thriller that's well-planned and well-executed. Also, Dane Cook is actually pretty good, as is Demi Moore.
The Cons: The "Dane Cook-age" in Cook's character comes out from time to time. There's an action scene near the end of the film that feels entirely out of place and brings the viewer out of the world for a few minutes.
The Bottom Line: Mr. Brooks is a taut, intense, and mature psychological thriller that really delivers the goods. The performances are very good overall, but notable is Kevin Costner's mastery over the main character. Though a few things take you out of the experience occasionally, Mr. Brooks more than makes up for them with it's sheer tenacity and entertainment value.
The Score: 8.5 / 10
1408
The Plot: A man (John Cusack) who specializes in debunking paranormal occurrences checks into the fabled room 1408 in the Dolphin Hotel. Soon after settling in, he confronts genuine terror.
The Pros: This is refreshingly scary. I haven't seen a horror movie this well-done in ages. John Cusack plays the character of Mike Enslin with stunning authenticity. Add to that the brilliant sound work, and 1408 keeps you on your toes the entire time.
The Cons: Not much, but the camera work in the first 30-45 minutes of the film was a bit jumpy. Too many cuts and too many unnecessary shots. Also, the relationship between Cusack and his wife could have been fleshed out more.
The Bottom Line: This is what the "horror" genre is supposed to be. 1408 is a well-paced, genuinely scary piece of film, and one that you won't want to miss while it's in theaters. I only wish the relationship between Cusack's character and his wife could have meant more. But, if you like this kind of movie, and you want to get the pants scared off of you, this is your flick.
The Score: 8 / 10
The Pros: This is refreshingly scary. I haven't seen a horror movie this well-done in ages. John Cusack plays the character of Mike Enslin with stunning authenticity. Add to that the brilliant sound work, and 1408 keeps you on your toes the entire time.
The Cons: Not much, but the camera work in the first 30-45 minutes of the film was a bit jumpy. Too many cuts and too many unnecessary shots. Also, the relationship between Cusack and his wife could have been fleshed out more.
The Bottom Line: This is what the "horror" genre is supposed to be. 1408 is a well-paced, genuinely scary piece of film, and one that you won't want to miss while it's in theaters. I only wish the relationship between Cusack's character and his wife could have meant more. But, if you like this kind of movie, and you want to get the pants scared off of you, this is your flick.
The Score: 8 / 10
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Away From Her
The Plot: A man coping with the institutionalization of his wife because of Alzheimer's disease faces an epiphany when she transfers her affections to another man, Aubrey, a wheel chair-bound mute who also is a patient at the nursing home.
The Pros: Incredibly well-acted; Julie Christie accurately and humbly portrays the varied colors of Alzheimer's, while Gordon Pinsent gives the character of Grant a wonderfully subtle persona. The story is sweet, heartfelt, and touching while remaining true to the content.
The Cons: Do not see the trailer, as it contains all the best moments from the film. A filmmaker should know not to include his greatest scenes in the trailer, and that is exactly what has happened here. Aside from that, the writing could have been a little more genuine to help the actors out.
The Bottom Line: Away From Her is a beautifully woven (and acted) tale of love, the love you lose, and redemption. But this movie loses big points for including the most powerful scenes in the trailer.
The Score: 7.5 / 10
The Pros: Incredibly well-acted; Julie Christie accurately and humbly portrays the varied colors of Alzheimer's, while Gordon Pinsent gives the character of Grant a wonderfully subtle persona. The story is sweet, heartfelt, and touching while remaining true to the content.
The Cons: Do not see the trailer, as it contains all the best moments from the film. A filmmaker should know not to include his greatest scenes in the trailer, and that is exactly what has happened here. Aside from that, the writing could have been a little more genuine to help the actors out.
The Bottom Line: Away From Her is a beautifully woven (and acted) tale of love, the love you lose, and redemption. But this movie loses big points for including the most powerful scenes in the trailer.
The Score: 7.5 / 10
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
The Plot: The continued adventures of the four adolescent mutated turtles gifted in the art of the ninja, as they attempt to stop a mysterious evil that threatens to end the world.
The Pros: Fantastic animation. The turtles have taken a turn for the better with this crisp, flowing, and exciting CG makeover. Their muscles change with their movements, and their skin shines flawlessly in the rain. The action also gets a good boost from this new style. It's really something.
The Cons: Just about everything else. The story might as well be non-existent, the dialogue is just sad, and the character development is nil. Jokes are incredibly cheap, and laughably bad.
The Bottom Line: This really is a movie for the family. It's safe for kids to watch, and occasionally fun for the adults (on account of the beautiful visuals and action). The big downside is the complete lack of effort on the part of developing a story and a decent script. But, if you really love TMNT, go ahead and give it a try. It's the same old turtles with a new look. And I kinda (I stress "kinda") like it.
The Score: 5 / 10
The Pros: Fantastic animation. The turtles have taken a turn for the better with this crisp, flowing, and exciting CG makeover. Their muscles change with their movements, and their skin shines flawlessly in the rain. The action also gets a good boost from this new style. It's really something.
The Cons: Just about everything else. The story might as well be non-existent, the dialogue is just sad, and the character development is nil. Jokes are incredibly cheap, and laughably bad.
The Bottom Line: This really is a movie for the family. It's safe for kids to watch, and occasionally fun for the adults (on account of the beautiful visuals and action). The big downside is the complete lack of effort on the part of developing a story and a decent script. But, if you really love TMNT, go ahead and give it a try. It's the same old turtles with a new look. And I kinda (I stress "kinda") like it.
The Score: 5 / 10
Monday, June 4, 2007
Paris, Je T'aime
IN THEATERS NOW (LIMITED RELEASE)
The Plot: 18 directors bring to life their own personal takes on love stories in Paris.
The Pros: There are some truly special shorts in this film and great directors; noteworthy are the Coen Brothers, Gus Van Sant, and Alfonso Cuaron. It's a fantastic director's showcase, and a very interesting look at Paris from all angles (even the imaginary).
The Cons: The film takes a short while to really become enjoyable. Some of the early films are not at all up to par with the later ones. Disappointing that it couldn't be entirely well-rounded.
The Bottom Line: Paris, Je T'aime is like Paris itself; it forces you to love it. You will slowly begin to relish the sometimes touching, sometimes saddening shorts. All in all, it's a lovely film. It takes some time to start up but, once it does, Paris Je T'aime takes the viewer on a wonderful ride. It's also an awesome (and I mean AWESOME) date movie.
The Score: 8.5 / 10
The Plot: 18 directors bring to life their own personal takes on love stories in Paris.
The Pros: There are some truly special shorts in this film and great directors; noteworthy are the Coen Brothers, Gus Van Sant, and Alfonso Cuaron. It's a fantastic director's showcase, and a very interesting look at Paris from all angles (even the imaginary).
The Cons: The film takes a short while to really become enjoyable. Some of the early films are not at all up to par with the later ones. Disappointing that it couldn't be entirely well-rounded.
The Bottom Line: Paris, Je T'aime is like Paris itself; it forces you to love it. You will slowly begin to relish the sometimes touching, sometimes saddening shorts. All in all, it's a lovely film. It takes some time to start up but, once it does, Paris Je T'aime takes the viewer on a wonderful ride. It's also an awesome (and I mean AWESOME) date movie.
The Score: 8.5 / 10
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Knocked Up
The Plot: For fun loving party animal Ben Stone, the last thing he ever expected was for his one night stand to show up on his doorstep eight weeks later to tell him that she's pregnant.
The Pros: A genuinely funny (and touching) comedy, great cast, mostly great improvisation; Judd Apatow is creating a style for himself...and that's not a bad thing at all.
The Cons: Unfortunately, a small percentage of the jokes in Knocked Up felt stale, as if I had heard them before. This may have been an effect of the constant use of improvisation.
The Bottom Line: If you're looking for a really enjoyable, hilarious comedy with a spritz of romance, go see Knocked Up. It is a guaranteed hit. But it's not the modern Annie Hall some critics have made it out to be.
The Score: 8 / 10
The Pros: A genuinely funny (and touching) comedy, great cast, mostly great improvisation; Judd Apatow is creating a style for himself...and that's not a bad thing at all.
The Cons: Unfortunately, a small percentage of the jokes in Knocked Up felt stale, as if I had heard them before. This may have been an effect of the constant use of improvisation.
The Bottom Line: If you're looking for a really enjoyable, hilarious comedy with a spritz of romance, go see Knocked Up. It is a guaranteed hit. But it's not the modern Annie Hall some critics have made it out to be.
The Score: 8 / 10
Friday, June 1, 2007
Hot Fuzz
The Plot: Jealous colleagues conspire to get a top London cop transferred to a small town and paired with a witless new partner. On the beat, the pair stumble upon a series of suspicious accidents and events.
The Pros: Brilliant writing, excellent comedic timing, Edgar Wright's near-perfect direction is at its zenith. This is better than Shaun of the Dead.
The Cons: Final action sequence may be a hair too long. Other than that, nothing.
The Bottom Line: This is the kind of action/comedy film that all other films of the same genre strive to emulate. It is a nearly perfect filmgoing experience. Go see it immediately.
The Score: 9.5 / 10
The Pros: Brilliant writing, excellent comedic timing, Edgar Wright's near-perfect direction is at its zenith. This is better than Shaun of the Dead.
The Cons: Final action sequence may be a hair too long. Other than that, nothing.
The Bottom Line: This is the kind of action/comedy film that all other films of the same genre strive to emulate. It is a nearly perfect filmgoing experience. Go see it immediately.
The Score: 9.5 / 10
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