Upper East Side Film

Underworld: Awakening

2012-01-25T20:10:00.003-05:00

The 4th installment in this sci-fi thriller series is best remembered for star Kate Beckinsale's skintight black latex outfit filmed in 3D. Aside from that, the less said the better.

This is barely a 90 minute film that is one long fight sequence shot in dark blue tones with little enhancement by the 3D effects. Ms. Beckinsale as vampire Selene, is quite the adept fighter and gunslinger. In this 4th waste of time, she is protecting the hybrid child she never knew she had from her sworn enemy, the werewolves. This is the flimsy plot that only exists as an excuse to watch Ms. Beckinsale in action.

Ms. Beckinsale sat out the third film but I guess money changes everything. I expect the studio will continue making sequels as long as the cash rolls in. Let's hope they stop with "Underworld 10: Retirement Home".

Coriolanus

2012-01-21T19:04:00.003-05:00

Ralph Fiennes directs and stars as "Coriolanus", Shakespeare's tragic Roman general. The film takes place in modern day Serbia substituting for "a place called Rome". The warfare, costumes and sets are all modern but the language is the original Shakespeare. Another modern touch is the use of TV newscasters as the Greek chorus. The landscape is bleak to match the mood of the story but the acting is very powerful and Mr. Fiennes, along with his excellent cast hold your attention until the very end.

The film co-stars Gerald Butler as Tullus Aufidius, Coriolanus's sworn enemy, who is invading Rome at the beginning of the film. There is a wonderfully choreographed fight scene between the two men. Mr. Butler is fit for his role but under Mr. Fiennes direction, he whispers his lines which I found distracting. Also starring in key roles are Brian Cox as Senator Menenius, Jessica Chastin as Virgilia (Coriolanus's wife) and in a terrific role, Vanessa Redgrave as Volumnia, the general's mother. Ms. Chastin handles the language well but is becoming too predictable in the supporting wife role. Ms. Redgrave, on the other hand, has some key scenes that really shine and remind us of her ageless talent.

Mr. Fiennes favors close-ups framing just one or two actors, which is both powerful and yet claustrophobic at times. The climatic turning point of the film is very well staged and sets up the tragic conclusion beautifully.
If you enjoy Shakespeare with a modern twist (Ian McKellen's "Richard III" comes to mind), "Coriolanus" is for you.

Mission Impossible:Ghost Protocol

2012-01-02T19:08:00.001-05:00

Your mission, Mr. Cruise, is to make the 4th installment in a series that's jumped the shark and somehow make it fresh. With the help of director Brad Bird, mission accomplished. This is the best Mission Impossible since the first film and while you can argue, it's bloated and could have been shorter, it's still a lot of fun.

Tom Cruise does everything he can to please his audience and finds new locations and stunts to make it happen. The film is a beautiful world travelogue but you don't have much time to enjoy the scenery as the action is pretty much non-stop. Much of the action sequences appear to be done minimally or completely without CGI which makes them all the more incredible. Of course everything is over the top but that's why you buy a ticket for a film like this. What makes it all bearable is how well Mr. Cruise and the cast "sell" it. It's not Oscar caliber acting but everyone works hard to make their characters credible.

The involved plot involves framing the IMF team for bombing the Kremlin. This requires them to go rogue (hence "Ghost Protocol") in order to stop a madman from starting a nuclear war. If Mr. Cruise was acting alone, you would think you're watching the new James Bond film but it is a team effort. His team consists of Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, and Jeremy Renner. Everyone plays their part well although Mr. Pegg's witty banter does start to wear thin. Mr. Bird is a veteran director of some beloved animated films and this time he has created a live-action cartoon realizing Ethan Hunt (Mr. Cruise) as a cross between Bugs Bunny and The Roadrunner. Everyone though, gets in on the action (including Mr. Renner in a sly homage to a key scene in the first film).

Don't try to analyze this one. Just sit back and enjoy the sheer fun of it all.

Top 10 Best & Worst of 2011

2011-12-30T21:44:00.002-05:00

Top 10 Films of 2011 (in Descending order)-
Win-Win- The fantastic Paul Giamatti continues his own winning streak with this terrific human comedy.
X-Men: First Class- First class all the way. Great script and well cast. This reboots the X-Men franchise.
Crazy Stupid Love- Smart script and very well acted by a terrific cast.
Moneyball- A very entertaining movie about the business of baseball. Brad Pitt has charisma to spare and Jonah Hill finally shows he can really act.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo- Excellent adaptation of the book. Rooney Mara was very good but I still liked Roomi Rapace better as Lisbeth in the Swedish version.
War Horse- Hope, survival and love through the eyes and actions of a magnificent horse, beautifully shot by Steven Spielberg.
The Descendants- Terrific drama about life’s complications. Alexander Paine does it again and with a great cast.
Incendies- Unforgettable foreign drama about a family with a mysterious past. Devastating and haunted me for months.
The Artist- Who would think a black & white silent film could be such an wonderful delight.
Hugo- The best use of 3-D since Avatar. Martin Scorsese directs a great cast in a wonderful love story to the movies.

Honorable Mention-
Horrible Bosses- A raunchy but hysterical comedy with a very funny Jennifer Aniston.
Melancholia- Beautifully photographed and orchestrated metaphor of depression. Kirsten Dunst’s best work and a triumph for Lars van Triers.
Take Shelter- A man losing his grip on reality…or is he?

Actors who were great but will be ignored come Oscar time-
Michael Shannon in “Take Shelter”
Dominick Cooper in “The Devil’s Double”

Top 10 Worst of 2012 (in descending order)-
Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark- just this movie.
The Adjustment Bureau- Good chemistry between Matt Damon and Emily Blunt can’t save this disappointing story about destiny vs. free will.
Unknown- Silly Thriller with Liam Neeson that can’t be saved by a decent twist.
The Thing- A totally unnecessary remake.
Young Adult- marketed as a comedy, this is a train wreck of a movie that, despite good acting, sucks the life out of you.
The Rum Diary- Johnny Depp as a lifeless Hunter S. Thompson in a thin, fictional telling of his early reporting days in Puerto Rico.
Tower Heist- The audience gets robbed.
Your Highness- Aiming at teenage boys, it will hit its mark. For everyone else, it’s your lowness.
Drive- A very polarizing film. You either love it or hate it. I found it very disappointing. Long, boring and violent.
The Tree of Life- Another love it or hate it film. For my taste, it was more like The Tree of Slow Death. It looked great but boring and pretentious.

The Descendants

2011-12-30T19:08:00.002-05:00

Alexander Paine is not a prolific filmmaker having made only a handful of films since "Election" in 1999, but every film has been a wonderful examination of the human condition. "The Descendants" is a dramady examining how a family in Hawaii copes with a tragedy and it's consequences. Co-written for the screen and directed by Mr. Paine, he once again delivers a winning script and terrific performances.

While the major plot point may seem tragic, the film is really about so much more. It's themes include love, forgiveness, and acceptance. And while dramatic, it's also filled with much humor. Credit the ensemble cast for an honest and warm portrait of a fractured family finding it's way through life's complications. George Clooney is so natural as the father of two daughters he barely knows, it's his best performance in years disappearing completely into the role. Shailene Woodley co-stars as his seventeen year old daughter, Alexandra and she's a natural talent. Her scenes with Mr. Clooney show great maturity for a young actress. Mary Birdsong plays Scotti, the ten year old daughter, who is a total delight. Nick Krause plays Sid, Alexandra's friend who just may be smarter than he looks and it's also fun to see Robert Forster again, playing Mr. Clooney's cranky father-in-law. Matthew Lillard, Judy Greer, and Beau Bridges round out the terrific cast.

As a location, the islands of Hawaii become another character as Mr. Paine reveals the ordinary lives going on behind the vacation paradise, exemplified by Mr. Clooney's opening monologue. And yet, the beauty of the islands can't be denied in many of the film's scenes.

This film has been out a while and has already received many accolades. It deserves them. It's easily one of the best films of the year.

A Dangerous Method

2011-12-29T20:16:00.003-05:00

Director David Cronenberg has visualized a compelling new drama about the early days of Psychoanalysis and it's pioneers Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and Sabina Spielrein. His terrific cast brings these historical characters to vivid life in the dawn of the 20th century.

The ubiquitous Michael Fassbender shines in his portrayal of Carl Jung. The film introduces us to Dr. Jung when he begins to treat Ms. Spielrein for "Hysteria". Using the "Talking Method" first developed by Freud, Jung cures Ms. Spielrein, who later in life became one of the first female psychoanalysts. Sabina Spielrein is played by Keira Knightley and she is brilliant. It's the best work of her career. Professor Freud is played by Viggo Mortensen, who I never could imagine in the role but he is a wonderful surprise.

The film explores the complicated relationship between the three characters, ignited by Ms. Spielrein. It is her case that brings Jung and Freud together and ultimately plays a part in what separates them. While this is a film of words and ideas, credit Mr. Cronenberg and his cast for making psychoanalysis sexy.

I certainly saw these people differently from what I remember in psychology 101 and I left the theater wanting to know more, especially about the fascinating Ms. Spielrein.

The Skin I Live In

2011-12-28T17:12:00.002-05:00

This is the latest film from Spanish director Pedro Almodovar. It stars Antonio Banderas (who started his career with Almodovar), Elena Anaya and Marisa Paredes (a longtime star of many Almodovar films). It is a very twisted Hitchcockian melodrama that you will either accept or find totally absurd.

Mr. Banderas has never been more suave and debonair as he channels Cary Grant in his role of a plastic surgeon with a very dark secret. Dr. Ledgard is experimenting on a new type of human skin. He has a young woman, Ms. Anaya, prisoner in his home that he uses as a living pallet for his work. Who she is and how she got there is slowly revealed in a flashback that is more than just bizarre.

Mr. Almodovar's direction is sharp and precise. There is fine attention to every detail and his use of color, especially red, bursts through the screen. The orchestral score enhances the visuals. Besides obvious Hitchcock, there are elements of Bunuel, Cronenberg and even his own earlier work, "Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down". It is an exploration of love and obsession that knows no bounds.

It is a stylish yet macabre suspense thriller. It contains moments of sex and violence with a revelation that one may find very disturbing. It you are looking for something truly different, this is it.

War Horse

2011-12-27T23:02:00.003-05:00

Steven Spielberg is the perfect director to blend action, sweeping drama, sentimentality, and high emotion brilliantly in this story of a magnificent horse named Joey. The plot is tailor made for a director of Mr. Spielberg's talents. He can show you the horror of war and at the same time, the schmaltz of a final shot taken right out of "Gone With The Wind". This is a grand story of love, survival, and honor between a horse and every life he touches, human or otherwise in a time of madness.

The story is simple on the surface. When England goes to war with Germany, thousands of horses are shipped to France for the British Calvary. One of these horses is Joey, who is sold by his owner to save the family farm, even though his teenage son, Albert, can't bear to lose his beloved horse. Albert soon joins the war in an effort to find Joey among all the chaos. Once overseas, we follow Joey as he protects Topthorn, another horse he has befriended, as the two follow a torturous path through war-torn France. The human actors, including Emily Watson, Peter Mullen, Jeremy Irvine, and David Thewlis, take a back seat to the relationship between Joey and Topthorn, which is the most honest and beautiful bond in the film.

Mr. Spielberg films the battles on the open fields and in the trenches with the same intensity of his earlier work in "Saving Private Ryan" but resists the graphic detail, ensuring a "family film". Even the way he frames an execution (fantastic by the way) is family-friendly. Besides the remarkable shots on the battlefields, the film is filled with gorgeous images of the various landscapes and of course, the horses themselves.

Once again teaming with John Williams, Mr. Spielberg stirs our emotions with powerful orchestrations that are totally manipulative at times. Of course, this is to be expected in a Steven Spielberg film so it's easily forgiven. Besides the music, the cinematography is breathtaking and there are visual moments that will stay with you long after the film ends.

Besides your popcorn, make sure you have tissues ready when the lights go down. And if you have the chance, see "War Horse" the play, live at Lincoln Center for a thrilling night of theater.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

2011-12-26T18:25:00.004-05:00

Director David Fincher and screenwriter Steven Zaillian adapt an English language version of the acclaimed novel. Having read the book and seen the original Swedish version of the film, it's hard not to think about them while watching this film. If you've never seen the first film, you will have a purer opinion about the acting and how the material is handled.

Mr. Fincher has directed an taut and edgy version of the book. He sets an ominous tone right from the opening credits and as the story unfolds, you find yourself more and more unsettled. This is a story of dark and nasty secrets. The screenplay by Mr. Zaillian edits the book in a very efficient way removing a few unnecessary subplots but otherwise staying true to the novel except for an slightly altered ending. The setting is the same and you can feel the Swedish cold in every scene.

The cast is stellar with Daniel Craig starring as investigative journalist, Mikael Blomkvist along with Christopher Plummer, Robin Wright, Stellan Skarsgard, Joely Richardson and as the title character, Rooney Mara. Mr. Craig brings full dimension to Blomkvist and Ms. Mara gives a fearless performance in a very difficult role. On her own merit, she captures "Lisbeth Salander" very well. Unfortunately as I mentioned earlier, having seen the original film, I can't help but compare her to Roomi Rapace as "Lisbeth". Ms. Mara, while appearing tough as nails, still has frailty that you never saw in Ms. Rapace. She also brings a bit of dark humor not seen in the Swedish version. Sometimes you identify an actor with a particular role so deeply that you just can't imagine anyone else in the part. For me, Ms. Rapace will always be Lisbeth Salander.

The editing, music by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and cinematography are all excellent and help provide the ingredients for Mr. Fincher's vision. I wouldn't call this a remake as much as an alternative version of the same source material. Mr. Fincher makes it his own and I look forward to the next installment in the trilogy.

Albert Nobbs

2011-12-23T23:20:00.001-05:00

Glenn Close is simply astonishing in the title role of this new drama by director Rodrigo Garcia. Ms. Close also has a credit as co-screenwriter and producer. It is a role she played in a short run on the NY stage and now she breathes life into Albert Nobbs on screen.

This is the story of a woman who passes as a man in 19th century Dublin, working as a butler in a small hotel. No one suspects Albert is really a man until Hubert Page enters her life. When Hubert discovers the truth and keeps the secret, a strong friendship begins and Hubert encourages Albert to take more control of her life.

The film co-stars Janet McTeer, Mia Wasikowska, Pauline Collins, Aaron Johnson and Brenda Gleeson. The entire cast is wonderful, in particular Ms. McTeer who should gain a supporting actress nomination come Oscar time. However, the film belongs, heart and soul to Ms. Close. It is a remarkable performance that is ultimately heartbreaking to watch.

Albert Nobbs is a character and film that will stay with you, long after it ends.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

2011-12-23T17:09:00.002-05:00

If you are looking for overstuffed holiday entertainment, then this is the film for you. Capitalizing on the success of the first film, director Guy Ritchie has decided bigger is better and assaults your senses with even more bullets, bombs, and explosions. Not necessarily the case, Guy.

Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law are back as Holmes and Watson and while Dr. Watson marries in the film, this is clearly a bromance between the two, as his new wife is literally pushed into the background. Noomi Rapace (so wonderful in the original "Girl With The Dragon Tattoo") co-stars in her first English film as a gypsy who holds a key to the mysterious plot. Engaging enough, she unfortunately takes a back seat to Holmes and Watson hot on the trail of Professor Moriarity, played by Jared Harris (who has morphed into his father).

Mr. Ritchie tries to intensify the action using "Matrix" style "slow-mo" and while it's artistic, it's overuse simply becomes annoying. There is plenty of action but everything eventually becomes tedious and you're ready for it to end. While the film tries hard to entertain (and does to an extent), better editing would have trimmed the fat and made it more enjoyable.

Shame

2011-12-19T22:52:00.003-05:00

Michael Fassbender gives a fearless performance as a sex addict spiraling out of control in the new film from director/writer Steve McQueen. This portrait of an addict is uncompromising, raw and very intense. It's not an easy film to watch but it's a fascinating and honest look at an addiction, not often explored (if ever) on film.

When Brandon's (Mr. Fassbender) sister, Sissy comes to visit, old wounds are opened and his world begins to unravel. Sissy is played by Carey Mulligan, who also gives a remarkable performance. Both characters are damaged goods and Mr. Fassbender and Ms. Mulligan hold nothing back for the camera. I can't say enough for the two brave performances of these actors. You feel their pain.

Mr. McQueen films New York in the darkness and shadows, taking us down dangerous paths with little respite. In some ways, the film reminded me of "The Panic In Needle Park", another classic film of addiction albeit a different kind of drug. It has the same raw power and naked (no pun intended) honesty about it's subject.

Young Adult

2011-12-16T21:55:00.005-05:00

Marketed as a comedy, this train wreck of a story is anything but funny. It's the second collaboration between director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody but it's a huge disappointment after the success of "Juno".

Charlize Theron is Mavis, an unhappy writer who returns to her hometown looking to reunite with her high school boyfriend. Mavis has very few redeeming qualities and watching her awkward attempts to win back Buddy Slade, played by Patrick Wilson, is difficult to watch. Upon her return, the one person Mavis does connect with is Matt, played by Patton Oswalt, when these two damaged people find common ground in their failures.

Ms. Theron acting is excellent but her character is filled with such self loathing, she's impossible to like and the slow, boring pace of the story just contributes to the cloud of depression that hangs over the entire film. When the movie ended, I felt the need to see another movie right away just to wash away the memory of "Young Adult".

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

2011-12-11T20:49:00.001-05:00

Based on the acclaimed cold war novel by John LeCarre, this cerebral thriller is more wordplay than gunplay and features an outstanding cast of pedigree British actors. Gary Oldman is "Oscar" perfect as George Smiley, the retired spy asked to find a mole at the top of British Intelligence in the early 70's. With unerring restraint, Smiley goes methodically about his work barely raising his voice or even lifting a finger. Dare I say, Mr. Oldman gives Sir Alec Guinness (who created the role in the original mini-series) a run for his money.

The film co-stars John Hurt as "Control" and Colin Firth, Toby Jones and Ciaran Hinds as fellow intelligence officers. Also in key roles are Tom Hardy and Mark Strong doing some of their best work to date. One actor I'm not familiar with is Benedict Cumberbatch who plays Smiley's assistant. This is his largest role so far in a young career and he is quite good. You expect great work from this ensemble and they don't disappoint.

Director Thomas Alfredson does a splendid job recreating the time period and there isn't a false note anywhere in the film. The one thing it does lack is warmth but then again, this was still the "cold war" and the British didn't coin the phrase "stiff upper lip" for nothing. The film feels as cold and calculating as it's characters and yet, it's totally appropriate to the story.

Don't expect gunfights and explosions. This is by no means, "James Bond" but rather a grandmaster matching wits with his opponent in an tense chess match. It's a complex, yet entertaining film that an audience should happily give it's full attention.

The Artist

2011-12-10T00:43:00.008-05:00

Who would think you would appreciate a black & white, silent film in 2011? "The Artist" is an absolute delight from start to finish. Writer/director Michel Hazanavicius crafts a Hollywood love letter to the age of silent movies. There hasn't been anything like this since the Mel Brooks comedy "Silent Movie" and it is a treat to experience a film the way an audience did in 1929.

To be fair, there are a few well placed sounds that come as a surprise but 99% of the film is truly silent. And once the novelty wears off, you are already engaged in the story and charmed by the lead actors and a very clever Jack Russell terrier. Uggy the dog steals every scene he's in but the film really belongs to Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo.

Mr. Dujardin is best known for the French spy spoofs, "OSS 117: Lost in Rio" and "OSS 117: Cairo Nest of Spies", two films previously done with Mr. Hazanavicius. In those comedies, he was a charming but clueless secret agent. In "The Artist", Mr. Dujardin is more charming than ever but he also reveals a depth of acting (and dancing) that we have not seen before. Ms. Berenice may be new to American audiences but she will not be forgotten. She displays a wide emotional range and is filled with unlimited energy, acting and dancing her way into your memory. The two stars have great chemistry together.

The film co-stars John Goodman, James Cromwell and Penelope Ann Miller. All three are terrific in non- speaking parts that let their expressions do the talking. The cinematography is sharp and clear and the score is just wonderful, substituting music for dialogue that works so well.

"The Artist" is joyful entertainment. Don't miss it.

Hugo

2011-12-05T21:42:00.001-05:00

I went into this film knowing nothing about the story, only that it was directed by Martin Scorsese and filmed in 3-D. What an amazing film it turned out to be. Mr. Scorsese has made the best 3-D film, since "Avatar". His love of his craft requires no less than a medium used to perfection to illustrate his story.

We learn early on that Hugo, played by Asa Butterfield, is an orphan living in the Paris train station some time after World War One. The station is populated with many colorful characters that are touched by Hugo in various ways. One in particular is Georges, played by Sir Ben Kingsley, an old man who runs a toy shop in the station and carries a heavy secret. When Hugo discovers that secret, what begins as the adventures of a young boy fascinated with all things mechanical, slowly transforms into a love letter to the art of film.

The wondrous set of the train station itself becomes a character in the story, heightened by the inspired use of the latest 3-D technology. The sharp colors and details enhance every scene. The supporting cast includes Chloe Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Christopher Lee, Jude Law, Michael Studbarg and Emily Mortimer. Mr. Scorsese brings out the best in his entire ensemble but it is Mr. Kingsley and young Mr. Butterfield who truly shine.

While marketed as a family film, "Hugo" contains some scenes that may be too intense for young viewers and while charming and magical, the eventual revelations of the film may be too "adult" as well. Having said that, "Hugo" is still a wonderful achievement that expresses so well, why cinema matters.

My Week With Marilyn

2011-12-05T21:01:00.003-05:00

Michele Williams is simply brilliant as Marilyn Monroe in this new film based on the true memoir of Colin Clark, a third assistant director on the film "The Prince & The Showgirl". Sir Laurence Olivier directed and starred along side Ms. Monroe in the "light comedy". The behind the scenes look at what happened during the filming of that movie is the basis of the new film.

Ms. Williams channels Marilyn perfectly. It is Oscar worthy acting with a guaranteed nomination. She is supported by a very funny Kenneth Branagh as Sir Laurence and Eddie Redmayne as Colin Clark, who begins the film a naïve boy of twenty three but grows up quickly thanks to Ms. Monroe. The film also has a pedigree supporting cast with Julia Ormond, Dougray Scott, Judi Dench, Emma Watson, Dominic Cooper, Zoe Wanamaker, Toby Jones and Sir Derek Jacobi, all playing the real people orbiting Marilyn's world.

On the surface, it's a film about making a movie but it's really a journey into the fragile psyche of Marilyn Monroe at the time and the true friendship she develops with Mr. Clark. It's an interesting story made memorable by Ms. Williams amazing performance.

Outrage

2011-12-05T20:29:00.003-05:00

The latest "blood and bullets" drama from writer/director Takeshi Kitano. Taking place in the contemporary world of the Japanese "Yakuza", fans of this genre will not be disappointed. Mr. Kitano's film is sleek and highly stylized, filled with great imagery. It tells the tale of warring families seeking favor with the "Chairman" and it's filled with double and triple crosses along with an escalating body count.

We've seen this kind of story before and the plot holds no surprises other than who will ultimately survive but Mr. Kitano's sense of poetry in his visuals help heighten this entertaining crime drama. The symmetry of the Yakuza vehicles juxtaposed with the henchmen in well tailor suits makes for a memorable opening alone.

Mr. Kitano also plays a starring role in the film as his alter ego, "Beat Kitano" as Otomo, an underling to the "Chairman". His character is of the same quiet but deadly killer he's played in many of his films. Honor among thieves is an important part of a Japanese crime film and even in betrayal, honor is always a priority, whether you are an underboss or a corrupt policeman. Otomo finds out that honorable or not, no one is untouched by the violence, which may well be Mr. kitano's point.

Melancholia

2011-11-27T10:58:00.001-05:00

Lars von Triers is one of my favorite directors. His films are always artistic and challenging. If you are looking for simple escapist entertainment, this is not the film for you. However, if you are up for the challenge, you will be drawn in by the gravitational pull of "Melancholia". To quote R.E.M. "It's the End of The World as We Know it and I feel fine".

The film is divided into two parts. In Part One "Justine" we are introduced to Justine, played by kirsten Dunst, who is suffering from a crippling depression (one could call Melancholia) while at the same time, a planet named Melancholia is on a collison course with Earth. Ms. Dunst is celebrating her wedding to Michael, played by Alexander Skarsgard. They are at the rented castle of her sister and brother-in-law, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg and Keifer Sutherland. It is a lavish "black tie" affair but Ms. Dunst's condition prevents her from any happiness.

Part Two, "Claire" takes place just after the events of the reception and focuses on the impending arrival of Melancholia and it's effects on Justine, her sister Claire, her husband John and their son. Mr. von Triers presents his themes and ideas to the audience through the actions and reactions of both sisters in each half of the film. The counterbalance of Justine's condition and the planet closing in on Earth only serve to strengthen his point of view.

The film is visually stunning, enriched with a wonderful classical soundtrack. Ms. Dunst gives a rich, complex performance and Mr. Sutherland is a surprise in a unique role. Co-starring in minor roles are Charlotte Rampling, John Hurt and Stellen Skarsgard but the film really belongs to Ms. Dunst and Ms. Gainsbourg.

Mr. von Triers is a writer/director with a unique style that is not for everyone but he does continues to surprise with each new film.

J. Edgar

2011-11-26T12:46:00.004-05:00

Director Clint Eastwood does a wonderful job with his actors in an otherwise dull biography of J. Edgar Hoover. Leonardo DeCaprio is excellent as Hoover and equally good is Armie Hammer as Clyde Tolson. There were only two important women in Hoover's life, his mother, played here by Judi Dench and his faithful secretary, Helen Gandy, played by Naomi Watts. Both women give strong performances as well.

Despite the fact these four actors are at the top of their game, they are hampered by a claustophobic, dry script that bounces back and forth in time never settling down long enough for the audience to catch up. The screenplay by Dustin Lance Black draws on historical facts and rumors about Mr. Hoover but keeps a tight focus on his relationships with Mr. Tolson, his mother and to some extent, Ms. Gandy. While other characters come and go, they are just background and never fully developed. The film's makeup and lighting are both distracting. Only the three main character age and at times, their makeup looks like something bought in a Halloween store. The lighting keeps the film in blue and grey hues further dulling the story.

Mr. Hoover was a powerful and paranoid man throughout his long tenure in the FBI. Even Ms. Gandy who was his most trusted confident, probably didn't know everything about the man. The film crawls through his life with only the numerous flashbacks providing any spark, keeping the audience involved trying to guess the correct timeline. The story only hints at his relationships with the eight presidents he served.

The focus is on the unspoken love between Mr. Hoover and Mr. Tolson. Their relationship was deeper than the world knew but many probably suspected and that love is painfully and honestly portrayed by both Mr. DeCaprio and Mr. Hammer. Mr. Hoover's devotion to his mother is also a focal point and scenes between them are poignant yet, a little strange. Mr. Black's script is strongest when exploring the repressed homosexuality of the two men and even suggests the reason behind Mr. Hoover's rumored fondness for cross dressing.

While the acting is terrific, "J. Edgar" is an overall disappointment.

Tower Heist

2011-11-20T23:30:00.003-05:00

A heist movie where the audience gets robbed. Usually when you mix a high concept with a big time cast and director, the results fail to make good on the promise of the trailer. "Tower Heist" doesn't disappoint in that respect but it does in everything else.

Directed by Brett Ratner and starring Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Matthew Broderick and Alan Alda, you would expect action and laughs but end up with a sluggish first act and only a moderately entertaining second act. The film takes forever to get going and finally shows some life once Eddie Murphy starts getting more screen time. Credit Mr. Broderick for providing some good laughs as the mousey analyst and to Mr. Alda playing against type as the smug, billionaire villain. Mr. Stiller, on the other hand brings nothing new as the Tower manager who decides to rob Mr. Alda for the good of the building staff.

The highpoint of the robbery towards the end is fun but the film is so badly edited, it appears that chunks of scenes have been omitted, ruining the continuity and taking the heart out of the story. The film ends up as disposable entertainment, quickly forgotten once it ends.

Martha Marcy May Marlene

2011-11-12T23:19:00.003-05:00

A star turn by Elizabeth Olsen in a fascinating story of a girl, who after living in a cult environment for two years, tries to reconnect with the outside world. Written and directed by Sean Durkin, his first feature film is both disturbing and captivating.

We first meet Martha as she is leaving the cult for unknown reasons. She reaches out to her sister Lucy, played by Sarah Paulson who brings Martha to her Connecticut home, with no knowledge of where's she's been. Lucy and her husband Ted, played by Hugh Dancy, try to be understanding but are confused by Martha's behavior especially when she refuses to tell them the truth about her recent past.

The film cuts back and forth in time, between the present in Connecticut and Martha's time with the cult, when she was renamed Marcy May by Patrick, the cult leader. John Hawkes is chilling as Patrick, a man with an evil aura hidden beneath a seemingly gentle exterior. The edits and unusual score create a dream like atmosphere that deliberately unsettles the audience.

Adjusting to life after her experience is not easy for Martha and as layers are peeled back, you realize there will be no simple answers. You are left to interpret these characters as you will. The end, in particular, will be open to much discussion. Love it or hate it, one thing is clear. Elizabeth Olsen has a terrific career ahead of her.

The Rum Diary

2011-10-31T17:38:00.003-04:00

Johnny Depp channels his close friend Hunter S. Thompson in this film version of Mr. Thompson's novel. The book is based on Mr. Thompson's exploits in Puerto Rico early in his journalist career. Mr. Depp has played this role once before in "Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas" which was a slice of Mr. Thompson's career much later in life. Mr. Depp portrayed him in that film as the alcohol fueled, drug induced manic "gonzo" journalist he was to become. In "The Rum Diary", Mr. Thompson's fictional character, Paul Kemp, has yet to "find his voice" and Mr. Depp plays him wooden and colorless.

By it's own admission, the film centers on the excess consumption of rum and the antics of drunken journalists. The thin plot has to do with some shady land deals that have Mr. Depp crossing paths with Aaron Eckhart and Amber Heard. Why Mr. Eckhart's character needs a journalist "in on the deal" is never quite explained but it does give Mr. Depp time to seriously flirt with Ms. Heard (the next Scarlett Johansson). Ms. Johansson was rumored to actually be cast but I suppose that was before she actually read the script.

The film's most colorful characters are it's supporting cast played by Richard Jenkins, the editor of Mr. Depp's Newspaper, Giovanni Ribisi as a rum soaked washout of a journalist and Michael Rispoli, as a photographer who becomes Mr. Depp's best friend. This is actually one of Mr. Rispoli's best roles in a long career of character acting.

Amidst the repetitive drunken scenes, by the film's end, "Paul Kemp" does manage to "find his voice" ensuring years of a unique writing style. Unfortunately, Mr. Depp may be losing his, based on his most recent films. When he's not being outrageous (a Mad Hatter or Captain Jack), his characters tend to be lifeless and boring. When the rum's gone, all you have left is an empty bottle and a hangover.

Take Shelter

2011-10-30T18:47:00.001-04:00

Michael Shannon is mesmerizing as Curtis LaForche, a blue collar working man in modern day Ohio who begins to have nightmares and visions of impending doom. Curtis lives with his wife Samantha, played by Jessica Chastain (what movie isn't she in this year?) and their six year old hearing impaired, daughter, Hannah.

Life is normal enough as the couple struggle to pay bills, continue to master sign language and anticipate an operation that can restore Hannah's hearing. When Curtis's visions begin, he becomes obsessed with renovating and enlarging the storm shelter in the backyard. His obsession takes it's toll on his job, his family and literally his sanity as things begin to unravel. Is it mental illness or something more?

Mr. Shannon can do no wrong, whether it's Television (Boardwalk Empire) the stage ( Mistakes Were Made) or film (Revolutionary Road) and once again shows off his brilliance in an extraordinary performance. Jessica Chastain is perfect as Samantha, the wife with unconditional love for her husband, but straining to understand his growing erratic behavior. The film also stars Tova Stewart as Hannah and Shea Wigham (also of Boardwalk Empire) as Dewart, Curtis's best friend. There are also two good cameos by Kathy Baker and Ray McKinnon.

The film may be slow for some but the building intensity of the situation captivates the viewer and the final moments of the film gave me goose bumps.

The Thing

2011-10-23T00:38:00.003-04:00

"The Thing"

A totally unnecessary "prequel" to John Carpenter's vastly superior remake of the original '50's Sci-fi classic. There is nothing here to excite an audience. The acting is minimal and logic has been totally thrown out the window. We're told it winter in Antarctica and yet the days are fairly long and people walk around outside dressed like it's + 30 degrees rather than - 30 degrees.

The creature effects are fair but will fail to shock anyone and shape changing plot line never reaches the level of suspense in the John Carpenter version. The direction is horror movie 101 with quick edits, false jumps, and tight close-ups. I will give some credit to the film score which does it's best to create a suspenseful mood.

The entire cast is relatively unknown, a mix of Americans and Norwegians. The female lead, Mary Elizabeth Winstead is no "Sigourney Weaver" action hero but she does try her best. A good deal of the film has Norwegian dialogue with English subtitles which is a complete distraction.

This film didn't need to be made and doesn't need to be seen.

50/50

2011-10-15T18:37:00.001-04:00

It's very difficult to make a humorous film about cancer but "50/50" manages to balance both sensitivity and humor very well. Based on a true story, it's emotional but not melodramatic and sometimes outrageously funny due to a well balanced script.

Joseph Gordon Levitt, excellent as always, plays Adam, a young man diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. We follow his story from discovery through treatment and eventual results. Adam's best friend is played by Seth Rogan, who delivers the funniest lines but also delivers a heartfelt performance. Adam's girlfriend is played by Bryce Dallas Howard, who after starring in "The Help" and now this, has a great career ahead as the girl you love to hate.

The film also stars Anna Kendrick as a young therapist trying to help Adam through his struggle and Philip Baker Hall and Matt Frewer as fellow cancer patients who have an strong impact on Adam. Anjelica Houston plays Adam's mother. Welcome back, Ms. Houston. We've missed you and this part shows why. She's terrific in all her scenes.

I found the ending to be a bit rushed but otherwise "50/50" is worth your time. If you can deal with the subject matter, bring a box of tissues but also be prepared to laugh.

The Ides of March

2011-10-10T22:56:00.003-04:00

Another in a long line of political dramas that point out there is no such thing as an honest politician. George Clooney directs himself, along with Ryan Gosling, Evan Rachel Wood, Paul Giamatti and Phillip Seymour Hoffman in this tale of political twists and turns.

Mr. Gosling is at the center of things as an idealistic and as it turns out , very naïve press secretary helping Mr. Hoffman run the primary campaign of the Pennsylvania Governor played by Mr. Clooney. It's not the most riveting plot and the suspense is lacking but the acting carries the film. In particular, Mr. Giamati and Mr. Hoffman, who chew up the scenery fighting over the services of Mr. Gosling. This has been quite a year for Mr. Gosling and he is much more animated and involved here than his last effort, "Drive".

Mr. Clooney's direction is rather pedestrian, moving the plot along at a leisurely pace with enough exposition to make sure the audience is following every point. The film has obviously been released now for award season but doesn't have the gravitas to go all the way. It's entertaining enough but I expected more.

Moneyball

2011-10-06T20:35:00.002-04:00

The business of Baseball done in a most entertaining way. Based on a true story, the film stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the real life GM of the Oakland Athletes baseball team and Jonah Hill as Peter Brand, an economist who joins the team in 2002. Using an economic foundation and playing by the numbers, they manage to reverse their losing streak and have a great season, well documented in baseball lore.

While the premise may not sound exciting, the smart script by Aaron Sorkin and Steve Zaillian engages the viewer even if they are not a big baseball fan. Mr. Pitt, himself, has enough charisma to fill a baseball stadium and it's obvious he's having fun with the part. His relationship with Mr. Hill is the closest thing you will get to a love story in this film (except for the love of the game itself) and Mr. Hill finally breaks his 'stoner comedy" mold with this role.

The director, Bennett Miller, keeps things moving briskly and the story never gets bogged down or goes over your head. While those who follow baseball may know the outcome, the film still entertains on many levels. Whether it be the players adjusting to new rules, Billy and Peter's partnership, Billy's relationship with his daughter or his commitment to making the new system successful, it's all great fun to watch.

"Moneyball" is a home run.

Don't Be Afraid of The Dark

2011-09-22T16:29:00.001-04:00

"Don't Be Afraid of The Dark"

Or rather, be very afraid of the dark as that's when the little creatures will come to get you. Based on the television movie of the same name, Producer/writer Guillermo del Toro retells the tale in his own vision. The suspense is ramped up but the stakes remain the same... the life of a little girl and her family.

Guy Pearce plays the father of little Sally, who has come to live with him and his girlfriend, Kim played by Katie Holmes. Of course, they are refurbishing a huge gothic home with a dark secret in it's past. Sally is played by newcomer, Bailee Madison and she is talented beyond her years. The script calls for her to react to some pretty terrible things and she handles the role very well. Mr. Del Toro has a appreciation for dark fairy tales featuring strong willed little girls. There are moments of tribute to his earlier work, "Pan's Labyrinth" but that remains a superior film. This remake is stuffed with horror movie clichés.

The director, Troy Nixey tries to slowly build suspense and using the "Spielberg technique" doesn't completely reveal his monsters until well into the film. Unfltunately his slow build is pretty boring. The lighting and music do create a suspenseful atmosphere but all the bumps in the night are pretty stock elements. Overall, this is a hohum thriller with a few frightful moments but it is quickly disappearing from theaters to make room for the "big guns" of fall. If you rent it on DVD, watch it with the lights out. It will help.

Drive

2011-09-17T23:56:00.002-04:00

From the ads and trailer, you go in expecting a certain kind of movie but "Drive" turns this genre on it's head and takes you by surprise. Unfortunately I was not pleased by the "surprise". What starts out very promising quickly becomes a bad imitation of director Michael Mann's style.

Ironic for a film called Drive, it remains stuck in first gear for most of the film. There are a total of three car chases (and the last, while effective, is sloppy in it's execution). The rest of the film is filled with endless head shots of Ryan Gosling and Cary Mulligan. Scenes with no dialogue go on forever to the pulsing beat of the electronica soundtrack. Mr. Gosling's character is a total mystery (we don't even learn his name). All we know is that he is an excellent driver and has a psychotic temper when pushed. Mr. Gosling seems an odd choice for this kind of film but his cool demeanor works well for the most part. It's the ultra violent moments that just don't make sense.

The bloodshed and violent acts are so over the top, they are almost funny and after being lulled into a daze by the poor direction by Nicholas Winding Reyn, they are a jolt to the system when they occur. This was probably Mr. Winding Refn's intent to keep the audience awake.

The film co-stars Bryan Cranston, as Shannon, Mr. Gosling's boss and a far more interesting character than "The Driver" and Albert Brooks as a menacing crime lord, who has a new career playing against type. Ron Perlman plays a extremely stereotypical goon that we're either supposed to take seriously or laugh at the role as a parody. Christina Hendricks (from TV's Mad Men) has a "blink and you miss her" cameo but it's pretty memorable in it's own way. And then we come back to Cary Mulligan who sleepwalks her way through the film as Mr. Gosling's motivation.

Maybe I missed the joke and the whole film is a parody. That would explain the outbursts of laughter from the audience throughout the film. This drive goes nowhere. It's just long, boring and violent.

Contagion

2011-09-17T17:34:00.005-04:00

Didn't we all see this movie already? The last time around it was called "Outbreak" and starred Dustin Hoffman. Before that it was called "The Andromeda Strain" starring James Olsen. Now we have an all-star cast including Matt Damon, Lawrence Fishburne, Marion Cotillard, Kate Winslet, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jude Law. I guess every few years we need a killer virus movie to shake us all up. And the thing is...it does.

Scarier than any slasher film, "Contagion" will have you squirming in your seats and reaching for your hand sanitizer. Is it enjoyable and entertaining? Not really considering how close we are to really experiencing an outbreak of this proportion. Is it compelling? Absolutely. The acting is first rate and the story is so relatable, you'll run to the restroom as soon as it's over to wash your hands.

Director Steven Soderbergh is adept at juggling a large cast and breaking them down into inter-locking sub-plots that still manage to maintain the bigger picture. In particular, Matt Damon as a widower fighting to protect what's left of his family and Jude Law's conspiracy blogger are two standout stories.

In the end, this is a public service announcement masquerading as film entertainment and it's worth your time, if only to educate you on proper sanitation protocols.

The Help

2011-09-05T16:52:00.002-04:00

Terrific performances from a wonderful ensemble cast are the heart and soul of this dramatic setting at the dawn of the civil rights movement in Jackson Mississippi. When Skeeter Phelan, played by Emma Stone, comes home to Jackson and decides to write the stories of all the African-American "help", it ignites a flame in the town that will never die.

Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer are the first maids that come forward to tell their stories to Skeeter and these two women are incredibly powerful, each in their own way. Representing the white upper-class is Hilly Holbrook, played convincingly by Bryce Dallas Howard, who's social class and upbringing blind her to her racial bigotry. While Ms. Davis and Ms. Spencer are the heart of the film, you can't ignore the work of Ms. Stone (in her most mature role to date) who is both the anchor and catalyst for everything going on around her.

Allison Janney plays Skeeter's mother, raised to think one way but willing to change before it's too late. She is so well cast and has some great scenes of her own. Also co-starring is Jessica Chastain, who just continues to amaze with every role and Sissy Spacek, who also has some wonderful scenes as Hilly's mother.

"The Help" should expect at least six or more Oscar nominations and the biggest challenge will be who to nominate in the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress roles. Every woman in the film so completely inhabits their character that the audience can't help but feel the emotions coming off the screen. I didn't read the book but I have to believe that the film brings these people to life in a perfect portrayal. Credit must be given to Tate Taylor who wrote the screenplay and directed the film.

"The Help" is cleaning up at the box-office and deservingly so.

The Debt

2011-09-03T23:59:00.003-04:00

Based on the trailers that seemed to be running forever, this film delivers on it's promise. While it may strain credibility at times, it's still a pretty good espionage thriller with more than one good twist. Cutting back and forth in time, director John Madden, introduces characters and plot points like puzzle pieces that eventually come together to form a sobering picture.

The film stars Helene Mirren, Tom Wilkinson and Ciaran Hinds as retired Mossad agents, who 30 years ago undertook a mission to capture a Nazi war criminal posing as a doctor in East Berlin. In the flashbacks of 60's East Berlin, the agents are played by Jessica Chastain, Marton Csokas, and Sam Worthington. Ms. Chastain has seemingly come out of nowhere to be the "it" girl of the moment. She is currently in three films with at least three more before year end. The good news is rather than be overexposed, she is showing terrific range and maturity in this variety of roles and she should be enjoying a strong career for years to come. As young Rachel Singer in "The Debt", she is terrific.

The rest of the cast all do credible work even when the plot steers into the improbable and there is a fair amount of suspense to keep the audience engaged. I was reminded at times of films like "Marathon Man" and "The Boys From Brazil" (both higher quality but sharing similar themes). If you are looking for something with a little more substance at the end of the summer, this will be a good start before the avalanche of "Oscar" bait that begins in the next few weeks.

Rise of The Planet of The Apes

2011-08-24T20:25:00.001-04:00

A smart script and some terrific CGI work make this prequel a plausible and exciting explanation for the eventual "planet of the apes". James Franco stars as a scientist working on a cure for Alzheimer's by testing his drugs on chimps. When things go wrong with a test subject, he ends up raising the remaining baby chimp, whom he names "Caesar", at his home. It soon becomes clear that Caesar's mother has past on the genetic codes to make him super smart and things progress from there.

Mr. Franco and co-star Frieda Pinto are pretty much eye candy as the "good" humans and Tom Felton does his "Draco Malfoy" evil bit as a sadistic kennel worker. John Lithgow plays Mr. Franco's father who has just a few scenes but one that is very key to the story. Brian Cox is under-used as another "bad" human but in a film like this, all the "bad" guys get their due. The CGI work, as stated, is really is terrific but the real star of the film is the motion capture work done by Andy Serkis who bring remarkable life to Caesar.

There are some clever nods to the original film and the plot evolves naturally to set up the outcome we all know and expect.. The film does leave room for a sequel that can still fill in some gaps between the timelines but specific bits and pieces make the evolution pretty clear. The climax on the Golden Gate Bridge is very exciting enhanced by a strong musical score. The one unfortunate part of the film is the brutal mistreatment of Caesar and the other chimps which, while very important to drive the revolt, is hard to watch. It should also make you sad to consider how, in real life, some people continue to mistreat animals. In that respect, this science fiction can also be seen as a cautionary tale for mankind.

The Devil's Double

2011-08-15T15:44:00.002-04:00

This film is based on the true story of Latif Yahia, a soldier in the Iraqi army who was almost a perfect double for Uday Hussein (one of Saddam Hussein's sons). Dominick Cooper plays both roles and he is terrific as the madman, Uday and as the conflicted solider, Latif. Mr. Cooper plays Uday like an Iraqi "Scarface", living a life of sex, drugs and violence. If the screenplay is accurate, Uday was a complete psychopath who took and did whatever he wanted. He forces Latif to be his body double by threatening his family and Latif's life is no longer his own.

The facts and fiction play out against a backdrop of the first Gulf War. Malta doubles (no pun intended) for Iraq with wonderful cinematography and the film has a terrific soundtrack. The film co-stars Ludivine Sagnier as Uday's girlfriend, Sarrab, who becomes dangerously attracted to Latif.

Make no mistake, this film earns it's "R" rating. It is very violent and at times the depravity of Uday Saddam is hard to watch but it is necessary to juxtapose the actions of a good man thrown into a hellish existence.

I just can't say enough good things about Mr. Cooper's double triumph. This is by far the best work he's done on screen and while the story may not be for everyone, it's worth it just for his performance.

The Guard

2011-08-13T18:42:00.002-04:00

Writer/ director John Michael McDonagh has his brother's sense of dark comedy but lacks the skill to pull it off as brilliantly as brother Martin. Getting a top notch performance out of Brendan Gleeson and a subtle low key performance out of Don Cheadle is not enough to elevate this independent crime comedy to the level of an "In Bruges" (a far better mismatched black comedy starring Mr. Gleeson and Colin Farrel).

The story is almost an afterthought to bring attention to the wry use of language and Mr. Gleeson's portrait of a sly Irish small town policeman who gets involved with Mr. Cheadle's American FBI agent chasing drug smugglers. The whole film is low key and moves by in a lazy idle way much like the life in Mr. Gleeson's Irish hamlet. There are some good laughs, mostly at the expense of the American agent but the dark outweighs the comedy and is overall disappointing.

I'll stick with "In Bruges". A far better story, direction and chemistry between the leads.

Point Blank

2011-08-07T21:28:00.002-04:00

This French import is a thriller that hits the ground running and never lets up. It is pretty much non-stop action that will keep you on the edge of your seat, even though the basic premise has been done many times before.

Samuel, played by Gilles Lellouche, is a loving husband who's pregnant wife is kidnapped before his helpless eyes. Innocent of any crime, he is forced to help a criminal escape from the hospital where he works as a nurses aide. Things escalate from there and Samuel finds himself a wanted man pursued by both the police and rival gangsters in a race to save his wife and unborn child.

The various chase scenes on foot through Paris will leave you breathless and sudden twists come unexpectedly so pay attention. Roschy Zem plays Sartet, the mystery man Samuel must help and both actors have great chemistry as they end up in an uneasy alliance to stay alive.

In French with English sub-titles, "Point Blank" is playing in New York only at Cinema 3 on the Upper Eastside or downtown at The Sunshine Theater on Houston Street. I would recommend The Sunshine which has stadium seating and a much larger screen.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, this is the movie for you.

Crazy Stupid Love

2011-08-07T20:59:00.002-04:00

Stupid may be in the title but this is a smart script and a very enjoyable adult comedy/drama. In many ways, it addresses clichés head on while at the same time managing to avoid them altogether. The cast is first rate and really sells the story.

Steve Carell and Julianne Moore play Cal and Emily, a couple who's life is turned upside down when Emily announces early on that she wants a divorce. When Cal meets Jacob, played by Ryan Gosling, at a local pick-up bar, Jacob takes him under his wing (complete with total makeover) to teach him the art of meeting and seducing women.

Multiple love interests are entwined among the various characters and they all come together in a most surprising way. The film has two directors, John Requa and Glenn Ficarra, both of whom do a great job balancing the subplots. The family, friends, kids, and strangers that all cross paths are very real characters dealing with the joys and anguish of love.

Emma Stone, as Hannah, continues to mature as an actor and holds her own in her scenes with Ryan Gosling (who shows a flair for comedy for the first time). Jonah Bobo plays Robbie, Mr. Carell's wise 13 year old son with love problems of his own and he is a standout. Mr. Carell does his best work yet balancing his silly side with some well done serious moments. Ms. Moore is good but becoming rote with too many similar characters. The same can be said for Marisa Tomei (but she's so good at her type of character).

This is a modern love story with a lot of heart and just the right touch of crazy.

Cowboys & Aliens

2011-08-01T00:19:00.003-04:00

Take a high concept idea, mix it with stereotypic characters, throw in two action hero icons and how can you miss? It's a weak story but you can still have fun watching cowboy heroes defeat evil aliens and save the day.

Director Jon Favreau has developed a distinct action style. Many of the action sequences here reminded me of "Iron Man" but that's not necessarily a bad thing. He does a good job playing the high concept straight and keeping things dramatic despite the unlikely combination of the old west meets "Alien/Predator". He does show a flair for the visual with two scenes in particular. The first time the locals encounter the alien ship will remind you of Richard Dreyfuss in "Close Encounters of The Third Kind" but it still makes a visual impact (coincidently Steven Spielberg is an executive producer). The other visual standout is a shot of the Indians taking position among the bleached white rocks before the attack on the alien ship. It's a quick shot but looks great.

The screenplay's roots can be traced all the way back to "The Searchers" starring John Wayne (his grandson actually has a small part in the film). Rather than tracking his niece captured by Indians, Rancher Harrison Ford goes in search of his wayward son captured by aliens, here on Earth to mine our gold. Enter the mysterious gunslinger played by Daniel Craig (with a reasonable American accent) who teams up with the rancher, a gang of outlaws and the local Indian tribe to find their family members also captured by the aliens.

Olivia Wilde plays Ella, a woman with secrets of her own and the various other key characters are played by Sam Rockwell, Keith Carradine, Clancy Brown, and Walton Goggins. With the exception of Ms. Wilde's Ella, everyone else is a stock character out of any western. Mr. Ford and Mr. Craig take everything very seriously and keep you engaged as the film progresses towards it's inevitable climax.

It's a crazy concept that works on the strength and conviction of it's cast. So while not the most intelligent script, "Cowboys & Aliens" is still a fun ride... whether on horseback or spaceship.

Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows, Part 2

2011-07-27T20:17:00.002-04:00

Like one of Harry Potter's spells, this movie has been protected from critical review. There really is very little to write as we say goodbye to beloved characters that will live on in DVD immortality (and a Universal theme park). "Part Two" picks up moments after the end of "Part One" and it is a wonderful ride to the end of the line for Mr. Potter and friends.

If you are a fan, of course you will not be disappointed since splitting the last book into two films allowed for a much more thorough screen adaptation than the previous films. If you are not a fan, you really have no business going to see this anyway as you won't have a clue as to what is going on. Our three heroes, Harry, Hermione and Ron have grown up before our eyes and their maturity speaks volumes in this final chapter. There is some fine acting going on beneath all the CGI and special effects. Even Ralph Fiennes, as Vortemort, manages a worthy performance without a nose and bad teeth.

The film brings back beloved living and dead characters for many a farewell cameo (you can only get away with this in a film consumed with magic). I think three quarters of England's actors will be out of work now that this series has come to a close. Standout kudos to Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, and Michael Gambon.

"The Deathly Hallows, Part Two" is exciting, dramatic, heartfelt and best of all, brings satisfying closure to a fantastic series.

Captain America

2011-07-24T21:46:00.002-04:00

Even if you aren't familiar with the comic it's based on, you can still enjoy this action adventure as a fun "popcorn" summer film. Actually purists familiar with the source material may be upset with certain liberties (no pun intended) taken to the original origin story. The character of Bucky Barnes, for instance has completely been rewritten and during WWII, Nick Fury is nowhere to be seen but his "Howling Commandos" play a prominent part in the story.

Aside from these plot deviations, the film is still fun and sticks to the core of Captain America's origins. Chris Evans is perfectly cast as Steve Rogers, the puny soldier destined for greatness. Tommy Lee Jones is also perfect as the gruff Colonel in charge of the Super Soldier project. Hugo Weaving, always a good villain, brings the "Red Skull" to life with the right attitude and great makeup. A wonderful addition to the story and a fun nod to fans is the important part of Howard Stark, played by Dominic Cooper. Howard Stark will become the father of Tony Stark, who we all know by now is "Iron Man". Mr. Cooper is a great choice as you can really see the resemblance to Robert Downy Jr. and believe he could be his father. It also lays down the foundation for next year's "The Avengers" movie, especially with the addition of Samuel Jackson's "Nick Fury" cameo at the end.

The battle scenes are good but get a bit repetitive. Fortunately Cap's shield is a great special effect of it's own and fun to watch every time he uses it. The first third of the film takes a while to get going but there are some clever bits about a USO tour and a growing love interest, Peggy Carter (played by newcomer Hayley Atwell), who's daughter just has to show up in "The Avengers".

It's pretty obvious to the real fan that all the recent Marvel films have just been pieces of a bigger puzzle which will be next year's superhero blockbuster. The introduction of the Cosmic Cube in this film, a glimpse of "Hawkeye" in "Thor", Nick Fury at the end of "Iron Man" all help set the table for "The Avengers". Let's hope it's a meal worth waiting for.

Horrible Bosses

2011-07-10T17:54:00.001-04:00

After being disappointed by "The Hangover 2" and "Bridesmaids", I had my reservations about this new comedy. I'm happy to say that "Horrible Bosses" is far from horrible. Yes, it's a raunchy buddy comedy but it has a clever plot, some great chemistry from it's three leads and most importantly it's funny throughout and doesn't overstay it's welcome.

Jason Bateman elevates any comedy and mixing in Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day is a great formula for a summer comedy you can depend on. The three play friends who all hate their respective bosses for different reasons. The three bosses are played by Kevin Spacey, Colin Farrell and Jennifer Aniston. Mr. Spacey takes his "Swimming With Sharks" crazed boss character to another level while Ms. Aniston gets down and dirty as a sex crazed, foul mouthed dentist. Mr. Farrell goes over the top in a bad hairpiece and is truly a horrible boss but doesn't get enough screen time.

Jamie Foxx co-stars as a shady character the boys turn to for help when they decide to kill their bosses and Julie Bowen takes a break from "Modern Family" for a funny cameo as Mr. Spacey's wife. It's a great cast having a lot of fun with a outrageous premise. And for once, the trailer didn't give away all the fun parts so there is still plenty to enjoy. It's bawdy, silly stuff but clever in it's own way and deserves to be this summer's breakout comedy hit.

Bridesmaids

2011-07-04T17:22:00.001-04:00

A distant female cousin to "The Hangover", writer/star Kristen Wiig tries hard to create the perfect all girl "buddy flick". While there are some genuine laughs and lots of gross-out moments, the film wears out it's welcome and runs about twenty minutes too long.

Ms. Wiig plays Annie, lovelorn and broke who is asked by her best friend, Lillian (Maya Rudolph) to be her maid of honor. She ends up competing with Lillian's rich sister-in-law (Rose Byrne). Laughs ensue when the girls go for a fitting after getting food poisoning and when Annie gets drunk on plane heading to a bachelorette party in Las Vegas.

As written, Annie is such a loser that her bottom just keeps going lower. Funny at first, each embarrassing or offensive moment starts to become increasingly pathetic and you stop laughing and start aching for her uncomfortable situation.

Ms. Byrne has been showing more range with each of her last few films and is well cast here. Ms. Wiig and Ms. Rudolph are very natural together (their "Saturday Night Live" connection obviously helps). Ellie Kemper (The Office), Melissa McCarthy and Wendi McLendon-Covey round out the bridesmaids and each has their own "wacky" quirk to amuse us.

Ms. Wiig is a comic gem and this is a perfect starring vehicle for her. With some tighter editing and writing, it would have been that much better.

Beginners

2011-06-26T20:54:00.003-04:00

A pedigree cast of Ewan McGregor, Christopher Plummer and Melanie Laurent can't save this plodding, depressing story. Even the addition of a cute dog doesn't help. Written and directed by Mike Mills, this autobiographical story meanders back in forth in time, has characters that only appeal to the writer and follows no logical course except to constantly remind us how dysfunctional and sad all the characters are.

Mr. McGregor plays a humorless man who discovers his 78 year old father, played by Mr. Plummer, is gay and then shortly thereafter, also dying from cancer. I'm not giving anything away as all of this is revealed in the opening moments. The two men are wonderful actors and play their roles well but the material makes it hard to care for either one of them.

Jumping ahead a few months after his father has died, Mr. McGregor begins a relationship with Ms. Laurent (so good in "Inglorious Basterds"). We learn that his character is terrible at relationships and this one seems to be no different. The tedious film ends as they begin again (hence the title) and that's the big emotional payoff. Ironic that for a film called "Beginners", I couldn't wait for it to end.

A Better Life

2011-06-26T00:15:00.003-04:00

From director Chris Weitz, comes this story of an illegal Mexican immigrant and his teenage son. Carlos is determined to give his son, Luis a better life in California and when he has the opportunity to have his own gardening business, he believes he's found his salvation. Life, however, takes unexpected turns for father and son in this poignant drama.

The film stars Demian Bichir, who is a major actor in Mexico but known here primarily for his role on "Weeds", the past few seasons. Mr. Bichir is just terrific as Carlos. He fears he is losing his son in many ways and with one turn of fate, they learn from each other and grow closer for it. His scenes with Jose Julian, who plays Luis are honest and heartbreaking.

The story has moments of quiet beauty, suspense and sorrow but the growing strength of the father/son relationship anchors the film in hope for the future.

Super 8

2011-06-19T00:33:00.002-04:00

In a summer filled with sequels, I was looking forward something fresh from two of the most talented people in the entertainment world, J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg. I guess I'll have to wait a little longer. Written and directed by Mr. Adams with Mr. Spielberg as Executive Producer, "Super 8" comes with huge expectations. And unfortunately it doesn't live up to most of them.

You can see and feel the Spielberg influence everywhere in this film. You might consider Mr. Abrams was paying tribute to his mentor but the film ends up a mixed bag of Mr. Spielberg's greatest hits. From "Jaws" to "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "E.T.", everything about this film feels like you've seen it before. Throw in a little "Stand By Me" from Rob Reiner and there you have it.

I will say the film's young cast is first rate. The boys have a natural friendship and ease with each other that is honest and refreshing. Elle Fanning is really coming into her own as an actress with a very bright future. The adults don't fare as well. Kyle Chandler (of TV's "Friday Night Lights") might as well be in a TV movie of the week and Noah Emmerich is simply a cartoon villain.

Steven Spielberg is one of my favorite directors but he can easily lay on the heavy sentimentality. You can just feel him pulling the strings in the last five minutes of the film. The over orchestration and abrupt change in attitude of two major characters has his stamp all over it. There is a spectacular train wreck early in the film which pulls you in quickly but is spoiled by the unrealistic moments after the crash. I don't like to give things away but I think you'll know what I mean if you see it. Like "Jaws", the threatening menace is unseen for most of the film which does heighten the suspense but again gets ruined by an "E.T." moment.

I give "Super 8" a not so super 4.

The Tree of Life

2011-06-14T00:29:00.005-04:00

Or more appropriately, "The Tree of Slow Death". Director Terrence Malick has made only a handful of films over his career and every one is a visual masterpiece. "The Tree of Life" is no exception. It is beautiful to watch but I was bored beyond belief trying to decipher his message.

The film has little dialogue, and what little there is exists as voiceovers to the exquisite visuals. On the surface, the plot revolves around Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain as a couple raising their three young sons in '50's Waco Texas. We learn early in the film that the middle son dies and then we are temporarily transported back to the dawn of creation as interpreted by Terrence Malik. After about 20 minutes of this highlight mind-blowing sequence, we return without explanation to the family.

Sean Penn turns up in the modern day sequences apparently as the oldest son now grown to adulthood but tortured by his past. At least that's the impression we get, in a role that is basically a cameo. The oldest son, Jack, as a boy is played by Hunter McCracken and he is a standout who holds his own in his scenes with Brad Pitt.

Mr. Malick likes to tell his stories visually and while they are a treat, many of the visuals are repeated to the point of exhaustion. You can view this film as pretentious or as a masterpiece but either way, you will be talking about it long after it ends...if you stayed awake.

X-Men: First Class

2011-06-13T23:59:00.005-04:00

Five writers are credited with the screenplay and however they collaborated, they got it right. Director Matthew Vaughn takes a great script and translates it into a truly first class film in every respect.

The X-Men have always been sort of the "Anti-Avengers", much more serious in their own corner of the Marvel universe. This is a smart script that takes itself seriously and reboots the "X-Men" franchise. All the comic book mythos is there but the film works even if you are a casual fan or even unfamiliar with the other films. Of course if you are new to this franchise, you will miss the pleasure of two great cameos.

Coupled with a strong story, Mr. Vaughn brings a deft hand to the action sequences and molding the story to the real life Cuban missile crisis of the '60's brings plenty of gravitas to a film that could have gone in a completely different direction. He makes you believe that mutants forced the Russian's hand and almost set off World War III.

The casting is first class as well with James McAvoy as the young Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Michael Fassbender as the young Erik Lensherr (Magneto). Mr. Fassbender, in particular, is outstanding as the mutant balancing good and evil mixed in with a strong revenge motive. Rose Byrne has fun with her CIA operative role, as does Oliver Platt. Jennifer Lawrence moves on from "Winter's Bone" and takes on the role of a young Raven/Mystique. January Jones is perfectly cast as yet another "ice queen", playing Emma Frost (an important figure in X-Men lore) and rounding out the major cast is Kevin Bacon as Sebastian Shaw, the central villain of the film.

With so many superhero sequels constantly bombarding us, it's refreshing to have the original idea of a "prequel" that really jumpstarts the franchise. Smart, action packed and fun from start to finish.

Priest

2011-06-01T21:57:00.002-04:00

"Priest" is a futuristic sci-fi western version of "The Searchers" with Paul Bettany filling in for John Wayne and vampires substituting for Indians. Mr. Bettany plays Priest, a military man of God, trained by the church to hunt vampires who goes in search of his missing niece, Lucy. Karl Urban plays a vampire version of Clint Eastwood's "man with no name" from his early spaghetti westerns. If this all sounds appealing, you will find it to be a lot of fun.

The special effects are well done and there is plenty of action (in 2 or 3-D) as Priest, his cowboy partner Hicks, played by Cam Gigandet, and another priest, played by Maggie Q try to rescue Lucy and stop the vampires from reaching the unprotected cities. The vampires are depicted more like monsters than the Dracula version. They are muscular and fast, have no eyes but huge teeth and of course, can only hunt at night. Only Mr. Urban, as a former priest turned vampire, can exist in sunlight. The last third of the film takes place on a gigantic transport train keeping the vampires safe from sunlight as they move closer to their target. We've seen the climax before but credit Mr. Bettany and Mr. Urban for pulling it off with a fresh twist.

Christopher Plummer takes a paycheck in a cameo as the head of the church and Brad Dourif also cameos as a stereotypic western "snake oil" con man.

The film comes to a conclusion but also sets up a part two, which if this one ends up successful, will be inevitable.

Midnight In Paris

2011-05-30T11:15:00.002-04:00

Woody Allen's love letter to Paris is a charming light comedy and a most unexpected romance. It opens with a video postcard to the "City of Lights" before we even see the title credits. Mr. Allen's avatar this time around is Owen Wilson, as Gil, and his love affair with the Paris of old and new drives the plot.

While on vacation there with his fiancée, Inez, played by Rachel McAdams, Gil is magically transported each night at midnight to Paris of the 1920's where he meets and parties with the likes of Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald, Salvador Dali, Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway and many other literary figures and artists of the time. He also develops a crush on Marion Cotillard (who wouldn't) who plays a woman drawn into affairs with the famous.

Gil is a screenwriter but longs to be taken seriously as a novelist. He brings his first novel to Gertrude Stein for a critique. Gertrude is played by Kathy Bates and she is terrific. All of the historical casting is spot on. Adrian Brody, in particular is a very funny Salvador Dali.

During the day, Gil contends with Inez, her parents and her annoying know-it-all ex-boyfriend, played by Michael Sheen but each night he is taken back to his magical era. Mr. Allen never explains the time travel but does draw us to Gil's eventual revelation that changes his life.

The film is an enjoyable soufflé without the calories.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

2011-05-29T16:36:00.004-04:00

First of all, I saw this film in standard 2-D and saved the seven dollar 3-D extra fee. I don't think it made much of a difference as either way, the film is so dark, it might as well have been called "On Darker Tides". There were times I wished I had a flashlight to see any detail. Even the daylight scenes were poorly lit.

As for the story, it's pretty standard for what we've seen before from this franchise. You'll have no trouble following the plot as there is so much exposition, everything is constantly explained (even if it doesn't make much sense). Johnny Depp's charming rogue, Jack Sparrow wears out his welcome in the bloated two hour race to find the Fountain of Youth. He is at his best in the first third of the film. Geoffrey Rush is back as Captain Barbossa and he seems to be enjoying himself very much. The same can be said for Ian McShane who plays Blackbeard. You get the sense everybody is having fun playing pirate, including Penelope Cruz as Jack's rival/love interest.

The subplot of the handsome Christian falling in love with a Mermaid is an absolute waste of time and doesn't make up for the loss of Orlando Bloom and Kiera Knightly. Keith Richards, however does make another cameo as Jack's father but is smart enough to jump ship after one scene.

I've heard Johnny Depp enjoys playing Jack Sparrow so much, he's already signed on for a fifth film. Stop before it's too late. Abandon ship. This franchise has sunk.

The Hangover, Part II

2011-05-28T20:32:00.003-04:00

The original "Hangover" was clever and very funny and of course made a ton of money which made a sequel inevitable. "Part II" takes us to exotic Bangkok for basically a retread of the first film. The filmmakers needed an exotic location to hide the fact their script is weak and their actors are lazy.

Ed Helms is back as Stu and his wimpy, screaming tantrums are funny the first time but become as tedious as Bradley Cooper's Phil who's dialogue consists of cursing in every situation. Zach Galifianakis plays the very strange, Allen who's man-child schtick also grows old. A golden opportunity is missed by not giving Justin Bartha more to do. Understandably he was the missing groom in the first film but here is wasted as a minor character on the sidelines. I've seen Mr. Bartha do comedy live on Broadway and he can be very funny. Leaving him on the sidelines was a big mistake.

Ken Jeong is back as the maniacal Mr. Chow, an even more embarrassing stereotype here but effective as the driver in a well done car chase. A two scene cameo by Paul Giammatti just gives him an excuse to mug for the camera and forget he can act. The best actor in the film is the drug dealing monkey who becomes central to the story. I loved his Rolling Stones vest buy scenes of him smoking a cigarette border on animal cruelty.

No one in the film really exerts any effort. Even when a character loses a finger, it doesn't even garner more than a shrug from anyone including the character himself. There are a few funny situations and one or two great lines but they are far and few between. The audience laughed more at the trailer for "Horrible Bosses" than all of "The Hangover II". Pack it in, Wolfpack.

The Double Hour

2011-05-15T12:30:00.001-04:00

This is a terrific new Italian film that is difficult to review without revealing any of it's secrets. In basic terms, it can be described as a romance, a robbery and a mystery. But it is so much more that that.

When Sonia (Ksenia Rappoport) meets Guido (Filippo Timi) at a speed dating session, a romance develops but events take a very unexpected turn soon afterwards. It is best going into this film without knowing anything else and take pleasure in deciphering the multi-layered puzzle it soon becomes.

The chemistry between the leads is excellent and so important to the story. Ms. Rappoport carries the majority of the film and she admirably pulls off what becomes a very complex role. The direction and editing keep things well paced and the viewer engaged. This is important as the film demands your attention. Entertaining and thought provoking, "The Double Hour" will garner much conversation well after it ends.

Thor

2011-05-09T23:45:00.002-04:00

You don't have to be versed in the comic book or Norse mythology of Thor to enjoy a reasonably exciting adaptation of the Marvel comic character, "The Mighty Thor". You do, however, need to enjoy mindless action adventure filled with cartoonish violence.

Director Kenneth Branagh infuses just enough Shakespearean gravitas to add human drama to the story but "Thor" is no "Dark Knight" and for most of the film, keeps things light and moving quickly. After all, this "origin" film is just a set up for next year's "The Avengers", which will star most of the recent influx of Marvel screen characters.

The film stars Chris Hemsworth, who is well cast as the fallen God banished to Earth in order to prove his worth. He is banished by Odin, the allfather, played with much pomp and circumstance by Anthony Hopkins. Natalie Portman plays the love interest, Jane Foster (a nurse in the comics who has morphed into an astro-physicist for the film). A nice surprise is Tom Hiddleston, who plays Thor's half-brother, Loki. He is very well cast as the God of Mischief who's schemes drive the plot.

Most of the story is adapted intact from the comic source with some minor changes that may disturb purists but simplify the plot to keep it moving. The special effects are disappointing and 3-D is once again wasted, adding nothing special to the visuals. If anything the film is actually darker and harder to see with the glasses on. See it in regular 2-D if you can. You'll save at least $3.50 and never miss the effect.

If you do go, stay past the credits as you will be rewarded with a clip that adds another piece to the "Avengers" storyline. And also keep you eye out for Jeremy Renner in a cameo that sets up another Marvel hero.

Incendies

2011-05-02T00:42:00.001-04:00

Nominated at this year's Oscars for Best Foreign Film, "Incendies" well deserved the honor. This is an intense epic drama with a jigsaw puzzle of a plot that will draw you in and leave you reeling. It begins with the mysterious last wishes of a deceased woman and ends with a family changed forever.

A set of French Canadian twins are given two envelopes by their mother's attorney. The daughter is charged with finding their father (a man thought dead) and the son is charged with finding their brother (a brother they never knew existed). The daughter's search takes her to a unidentified Middle Eastern Country where she finally traces her father's path. Her brother soon joins her and he eventually discovers the truth about their long lost brother. Between their quest, there are flashbacks to their mother as a young woman that set the story in motion and plot her own course in this "Greek tragedy" of a tale.

The mother's story is both heartbreaking and remarkable. It is filled with sorrow and violence but also embraces the bond of love and family. Lubna Azubal portrays the mother, Nawal Marwan and she is fantastic in a very difficult role. The twins, Simon and Jeanne, are played by Maxim Guadette and Melissa Desormeaux-Poulin and they are both excellent, especially Ms. Desormeaux-Poulin as Jeanne.

The complex story pulls you in like a great novel that you can't put down. The revelations at the end and the final images will stay with you long after you leave the theater.

Water For Elephants

2011-04-24T01:46:00.002-04:00

Having enjoyed the original novel by Sara Gruen, I was somewhat disappointed by the film version. Whenever a popular novel translates to the screen, sacrifices have to be made and there are subtle changes here that may bother fans of the novel. Now if you haven't read the book, you will probably enjoy this period love story set in a Depression era circus.

Robert Pattinson tries in vain to break free of his Edward Cullen (Twilight) persona. I give him credit for trying to break the mold he has created for himself but he comes up short. Playing the lead character, Jacob, Mr. Pattinson spends much of the film brooding much like his "Twilight" character minus the fangs. His love interest, Marlena, is played by Reese Witherspoon who does an admirable job with the animal cast but lacks chemistry with Mr. Pattinson. And the villain of the piece is well cast by the presence of Christoph Waltz, as August, Marlena's husband and the circus ringmaster.

The best casting decision is Tai (II) as Rosie, the elephant. Tai steals every scene she's in and has great chemistry with everyone. Her lemonade scene alone is worth the price of admission. While Rosie's sub-plot is both heartbreaking and rewarding, the love triangle between the leads lacks the passion conveyed in the novel. The film is hampered by a poor musical score that tries too hard to heighten the various moods and ends up bogging down the film.

There is still enough here to move an audience to break out in applause but it's not "The Greatest Show on Earth".

Your Highness

2011-04-24T01:12:00.002-04:00

Even for the target audience, this medieval stoner comedy fails to bring the big laughs and ends up "Your Lowness". Danny McBride and James Franco try to recapture the laughs and silliness of "Pineapple Express" but spend too much time on juvenile jokes that fall flat and plot lines that veer off into just plain weirdness.

Starring as an odd couple of brothers, Fabious (Mr. Franco) and Thaddeus (Mr. McBride) embark on a quest to rescue Belladonna (Zooey Deschanel) from the clutches of the evil Wizard, Leezar (Justin theroux). Along the way, they meet Isabel (Natalie Portman) a feisty warrior woman with her own agenda for Leezar.

Ms. Portman looks great and ends up funnier than everyone else because she actually bothers to act and takes her character very seriously. Everyone else is just enjoying each other's company and having a grand old time at the expense of the audience.

Meek's Cutoff

2011-04-17T16:57:00.002-04:00

Director Kelly Reichardt (Wendy & Lucy) teams once again with actress Michele Williams in this minimalistic "western" about a small band of pioneers lost in the Oregon wilderness. The year is 1845 and guide Stephen Meeks has led three families off the main artery of a wagon train heading west. Ms. Williams plays Emily Tetherow, the young bride of Solomon Tetherow played by Will Patton.

Meeks is played with bluster by Bruce Greenwood (hidden under long hair and scraggy beard) who insists he can lead the group to a fertile valley. The other families are played by Paul Dano and Zoe Kasdan as The Gateleys and Shirley Henderson and Neal Huff as The Whites. The White family also has a young son, Jimmy played by Tommy Nelson. These are the main characters we watch struggle with their daily existence low on water and food. Halfway through, there is a twist on their situation that creates new tensions. There are endless shots of their wagon train enduring hardships across a barren landscape as they put their faith in Meeks to lead their way.

The film is beautifully shot with wonderful cinematography and the acting is very authentic. You find yourself forgetting there is a film crew all around these people and believe in their loneliness and struggles. Ms. Williams, as usual, shines in her role as the most assertive of the women. Not much happens as the narrative is not your typical Hollywood plot. Audiences will be very divided on this film but it does have it's charms if you accept it for what it is, a journey more than a destination.

Jane Eyre

2011-04-16T18:21:00.001-04:00

The seventh (I believe) version of the Charlotte Bronte classic stars upcoming actors Mia Wasikowska as the title character and Michael Fassbender as Edward Rochester. Star crossed lovers in the classic sense, their repressed passion builds slowly fueled by intelligent word play and soulful stares.

Both actors do an admirable job of expressing the love that grows between them but it is Ms. Wasikowska that really shines as Jane. She is in almost every scene and she is has a unique beauty that is hypnotic to watch. This classic love story also features Judi Dench, Sally Hawkins and Jamie Bell and plays out against a gorgeous windswept landscape in the English countryside.

The cinematography is excellent with lighting, in particular, playing an important part. Many scenes are lit solely by candlelight enveloping the viewer in Bronte's world.

Did the world need another version of "Jane Eyre"? Probably not, but for a younger generation, it's a great introduction to the classics.

Hanna

2011-04-09T22:40:00.001-04:00

Saoirse Ronan plays the title character, "Hanna", in this new action thriller. Unfortunately, while she is fascinating to watch, the film doesn't really thrill. With a score by the Chemical Brothers and a few set action pieces, the film tries hard but it's a thin story that's violent and ultimately senseless.

Hanna is trained as a child to become an unbeatable assassin by her CIA rogue father, played by Eric Bana. They live in a secluded forest in Finland cut off from civilization. Completely naïve when it comes to human contact, Hanna is a stranger in a strange land once she makes that contact. All she knows how to do is survive and lives by the mantra "adapt or die".

Upon learning of her existence, CIA agent, Marissa, played by Cate Blanchett hunts Hanna and her father, worried that they will expose her past secret experiments. It's all flimsy nonsense about creating super soldiers with poor plot twists you can easily see coming. Marissa is a strange character, (she has a weird obsession with clean teeth) and she employs an even stranger character, Issacs, played by Tom Hollander to do her dirty work.

The only saving grace is Ms. Ronan, who continues to hone her acting with each new role. There is something magnetic about her and as Hanna, she equally balances her naivety with her killer instincts. It's hard not to root for her, even when nothing makes too much sense.

Insidious

2011-04-03T20:54:00.003-04:00

I had such high hopes for this new horror film after reading many other reviews. Maybe I've just been spoiled by too many good ones over my lifetime but "Insidious" just didn't give me sweaty palms and heart palpitations like "The Exorcist" or "Poltergeist" and certainly didn't send me to the nearest bar for a much needed drink after the original "The Omen".

Don't get me wrong. The film works very hard to scare you and definitely has it's "jolt" moments so if you are easily affected by these kinds of films, you will have a screaming good time. But for the true fan of the genre, this is nothing more than a poor rip-off of "Poltergeist". The film gives away to much in the trailer and even the poster so it's no surprise to say it's not the house that's haunted but rather a young family member.

The parents are played well by Rose Bryne and Patrick Wilson but they are stock roles (the worried mom and the disbelieving dad) until the last act when they both turn it up a notch to save their son. The film is rated PG-13 so there is isn't the usually gore factor to scare and repulse you. Instead the film relies heavily on atmosphere to pull you in and keep you nervous. Looking for an original angle, it's odd that the central evil presence looks exactly like "Darth Sidious" from "Star Wars". Was the makeup department budget slashed because too much money was spent on the fog machines?

If you are really looking for a good scare, invite some friends over, turn out the lights and watch "The Exorcist" or "Poltergeist", still two of the scariest movies ever made. Even, the original "House On Haunted Hill" (starring the great Vincent Price) surpasses "Insidious" for real goose-bump inducing horror. Until the next attempt, you just can't go wrong with the classics.

The Lincoln Lawyer

2011-04-03T20:14:00.002-04:00

Matthew McConaughey stars as Mick Haller, the title character, who operates his law practice from the back seat of a Lincoln Continental. The film is from the bestseller by Michael Connelly and it translates very well to the screen. Mr. McConaughey is perfect for the role of the streetwise lawyer and I can foresee this becoming a franchise for him as long as Mr. Connelly keeps churning out bestsellers.

The first rate cast also includes Marisa Tomei, as Mick's ex-wife, Ryan Phillippe, as the predominant client, William H. Macy, as Mick's legal investigator, Josh Lucas, as the District Attorney and John Leguizamo, as a shady bail bondsman. Also included are Frances Fisher, Michael Pena and the return of '80s star Michael Pare. Everyone is working an angle and this legal thriller, while revealing it's hand early, still has some aces up it's sleeve.

I was a little disappointed in the role of Earl, Mick's driver who doesn't have much to do and seems wasted. But that point aside, the plot and the acting will keep you engaged. Mr. McConaughey has done his share of lazy films but when he feels like really acting, as he does here, he can really carry a film.

"The Lincoln Lawyer" would make a terrific TV series if the producers ever decided to go that route. It's got the kind of characters you would easily enjoy seeing again. For now, it's those characters that drive "The Lincoln Lawyer" to a victory lap.

Source Code

2011-04-02T17:09:00.002-04:00

"Source Code" is a twisty action-thriller with elements of "Inception" and "Groundhog's Day". Directed by Duncan Jones, this is an exciting and suspenseful film that is anchored by a terrific Jake Gyllenhaal. His performance alone, sells the story.

When Mr. Gyllenhaal wakes up on a commuter train, he is in the body of another man. Initially confused, he slowly remembers why he is there. Sitting across from him is Michelle Monaghan, who once again plays the pretty love interest in peril. She has become quite adept at these roles and here, performs admirably. Apparently Mr. Gyllenhaal is a soldier taking part in a Government experiment to stop a terrorist from blowing up a train. As the audience, we learn along with him as plot points are slowly revealed.

Overseeing the experiment is Vera Farmiga as his "handler" and Jeffrey Wright as the creator of the "source code". There is a lot of sci-fi mumbo jumbo as to how the source code works but even if it goes over your head, you can sit back and enjoy the ride. Beyond the four leads, the rest of the cast is fairly unknown so that makes figuring out the identity of the bomber all the more fun. Usually a name actor will make it pretty obvious but that's not the case here which really helps propel the story.

I can't say enough how natural and believable Mr. Gyllenhaal is in the role of Colter Stevens. He really makes you root for the character and believe the situation, even when it gets fairly unbelievable.

Tyrannosaur

2011-03-31T23:56:00.004-04:00

Actor Paddy Considine writes and directs his first full length feature, based on a short he made a few years ago. He gathers together a first rate cast with Peter Mullen, Olivia Cole, and Eddie Marsan in the lead roles. Mr. Mullen plays Joseph, a man full of anger that he wears on his sleeve. When he meets Hanna (Ms. Cole), he ever so slowly awakens new emotions to replace his rage. Their relationship is not what you expect, evident enough when we meet Hanna's husband, James (Mr. Marsan). Hanna has problems of her own, hidden below the surface and her marriage is not what it seems.

This is a serious drama with moments of raw violence against people and animals (two dogs do not fare well in the film) but it is also powerfully acted in an arc towards redemption and optimism. Mr. Considine's camera loves Mr. Mullen. He has always done fine work but this may be his best role and the way the camera lingers on his subtle expressions can be breathtaking.

The story is not complicated. It is character driven and well paced. Mr. Considine looks to have a long career behind the camera. I saw this at the New Director's/New Films Festival at Lincoln Center so don't look for it in theaters just yet. I'm not sure of it's release date but once it's released, it's worth a look, especially if you are a fan of gritty British drama.

Win Win

2011-03-27T23:43:00.001-04:00

Writer/Director Tom McCarthy hits the trifecta. It started with "The Station Agent", followed by "The Visitor" and now "Win Win'. He is a master at telling small stories filled with memorable characters and rewarding moments. Not to mention, always finding the perfect cast.

This is the story of Mike Flaherty, a small town lawyer who also coaches the local high school wrestling team. Mike is played by Paul Giamatti, who notches another wonderful performance as a loving but flawed "everyman". Amy Ryan disappears once again into a role as his wife, Jackie, with a perfect New Jersey accent.

As his business falters and needing money, Mike becomes the guardian to one of his elderly clients, played with his usual gruff exterior, by Burt Young. Along with the job comes a monthly stipend that Mike desperately needs. Of course, things don't go quite as planned and get complicated in an unexpected way.

Co-starring as Mike's best friend is Bobby Cannavale, who is the source of much humor especially in his scenes with Mr. Giamatti and Jeffrey Tambor, the assistant wrestling coach. The three of them are truly funny together. Between the "laugh out loud" scenes are some terrific dramatic and tender moments from a rich script delivered by fine actors. I predict big things for Alex Shaffer.

You expect the story to be predictable and it's not. It's low key but thoroughly enjoyable. You can't lose with "Win Win".

The Adjustment Bureau

2011-03-12T22:36:00.004-05:00

Take a little "Wings of Desire", "City of Angels" and add in some "Monsters Inc." and you've got "The Adjustment Bureau". You anticipate a Sci-fi type thriller based on the trailer but what you really get is a love story layered with spiritual arguments of free will vs. pre-destiny.

Matt Damon stars as a man who "sees behind the curtain" and finds out his life is not really his own. He meets and falls in love with Emily Blunt but is told by his "adjusters", their life together is not meant to be. Defying God (The Chairman), he refuses to give up on their future together. This, in turn, angers John Slattery and Terrence Stamp, "adjusters" trying to keep Mr. Damon on his pre-destined course.

Mr. Damon and Ms. Blunt have genuine chemistry and you believe in their love. It's the only thing that keeps you interested as not much happens and the actions of the adjusters are just ridiculous. You'll leave the theater debating whether or not your own "book" has been written which may prompt more lively discussion than the film does. What holds your attention are the New York City locations and Mr. Damon's likable "everyman" acting. The premise is a good one but it's laughably executed.

Carancho

2011-02-21T18:02:00.003-05:00

Actor Richardo Darin (so good in "The Secret In Their Eyes" and "Nine Queens") returns in this Argentinian drama about an ambulance chasing lawyer who's tired of the insurance scams and is looking for a way out. When he meets a new doctor on the ambulance late shift, they begin a relationship that gives him hope for a better future. The doctor is played by Martina Gusman and while their relationship begins innocently enough, both discover they have secrets that will impact everything.

Approximately 8,000 people die every year in Argentina, according to the prologue and insurance fraud is a major industry preying on the victims and their families. The film, written and directed by Pablo Trapero, sheds light on these tragedies through a fictional story that cuts close to the truth. This is a dark drama fueled by the excellent work of Mr. Darin and Ms. Gusman. There is considerable bloodshed and the film is obviously in Spanish with subtitles but it's interesting subject matter and definitely worth the effort over the February Hollywood throwaways out there now.

Unknown

2011-02-20T00:07:00.003-05:00

It's slim pickings in the dark days of February, once you've exhausted all the Oscar nominated films. You would expect a Liam Neeson action film to bring a little light to that darkness. You could do worse than "Unknown".

Mr. Neeson is becoming quite good as the guy to turn to when you are trouble in a European city. Here, he is Martin Harris, in trouble himself, after a car accident leaves him with spotty memory loss and a wife who no longer knows him. January Jones, so icy good on "Mad Men" plays basically the same role in contemporary clothes as Mr. Neeson's wife. Diane Kruger plays a cab driver with "too good to be true" survival skills who helps Mr. Neeson get his life back.

Frank Langella shows up late as a friend with a secret and Adian Quinn rounds out the American cast as "the other" Martin Harris. Everyone seems to have a secret agenda and nothing is quite as it seems. The central plot twist is a good one but there is too much exposition and so many plot holes, the film should have been called "Unbelievable" instead of "Unknown". There are a few good action sequences, particularly a car chase through the snowy streets of Berlin, but they are far and few between.

A cross between "The Bourne Identity" and "Taken" with a dash of Hitchcock thrown in, there are enough twists and turns to keep you interested but it's all rather forgettable once the lights come on.

Biutiful

2011-02-11T23:43:00.002-05:00

I am a big fan of writer/director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu. His films are always poetic and emotional. "Biutiful" continues his exploration of the human condition but rather than a multiple cast of characters like his previous work, his focus here is on one man's struggle through life.

Javier Bardem gives a towering performance as Uxbal, a man struggling to raise two small kids, providing for them through the underbelly of the Barcelona underworld. He lives on the edge of a criminal life dealing with illegals and counterfeit products only to keep his family together. When he becomes ill, he becomes even more desperate to provide for his children. Mr. Bardem's performance anchors the film. He is in almost every scene and his on screen presence is so powerful, he's just a force of nature commanding your attention.

The cinematography is outstanding but the direction is erratic at times. Subplots dangle and seem unnecessary but to Mr. Inarritu's credit, there are still moments of absolute heartbreak along with scenes of pure beauty.

This is intense story with difficult moments but the humanity and strength in Mr. Bardem's performance is worth every minute. A well deserved best actor Oscar nomination.

Phil Ochs: There But For Fortune

2011-02-04T22:47:00.002-05:00

This is an entertaining and important documentary about Phil Ochs. Mr. Ochs was a political folk singer popular in the 60's who's most famous songs were "I Ain't Marching Anymore" and "Small Circle Of Friends".

His circle of friends included Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, and Peter Yarrow. He was the most "political" of his contemporaries and never really had a "hit" record. "Pleasures From The Harbor" was probably his most commercial album and yet his music was the voice of a generation. This new documentary gives Mr. Ochs his due and at the same time capsulizes the turbulent 60's.

The film is full of songs and images as well as contemporary interviews with Mr. Ochs's family, friends and acquaintances. It provides insight into Mr. Ochs who, while they were friends, always felt overshadowed by Bob Dylan. It explores the inner demons that drove him to drink, his terrible bout with depression, but also celebrates the man's life and music.

The documentary is in limited release in NY but will open in other major cities throughout February and March. If you believe in the power of music as a tool for change and want to learn more about an unlikely American hero, this is a must see.

The Green Hornet

2011-01-28T22:31:00.002-05:00

Michael Gondry, at first seems like an odd choice for a Seth Rogan action comedy but actor and director are on the same page for this juvenile and silly film. It is not without it's certain charms and will probably appeal to the 14 year old boy who may still be lurking in your adult mind.

Seth Rogan fans are sure to enjoy the sophomoric dialog and mass destruction. Some of the action sequences are actually exciting and there are a few "laugh out loud" moments as well. Where the film falters is the casting of Cameron Diaz, who is completely wasted and just shows up for the paycheck. After the disaster of "Knight & Day", Ms. Diaz's career seems to be going in the wrong direction. Also wasted is Christoph Waltz who basically plays the same role from "Inglorious Basterds" without the Nazi uniform.

What does work is the "bromance" between Mr. Rogan and his "sidekick" Kato played by Martial Arts master Jay Chou. Their relationship has depth and believability and drives the film (no pun intended).

Another in a growing line of gimmick 3-D films, "The Green Hornet" could easily have been 2-D saving it's audience the extra bucks. The 3-D does nothing to enhance the film except for adding some interesting depth to the closing credits. I can't tell you how much I hate this trend which shows no sign of going away anytime soon.

This film will never win over critics but it will appeal to an audience looking for a summer "popcorn" flick in the middle of winter.

The Way Back

2011-01-27T22:23:00.001-05:00

Director Peter Weir returns with this extraordinary tale of survival based on a true story. It's 1940 and a small group of multi-national prisoners stage an escape from a Russian Gulag in Siberia. They proceed to walk 4000 miles south to freedom in India. All the tension and suspense lie in who will survive.

The film stars Jim Sturgess, Ed Harris, Saoirse Ronan, and Colin Farrell. While the story holds your attention for two hours, it's the tale itself that bears watching and not the acting. This is man against nature at it's worst and while everyone is solid in their part, there is no opportunity to develop the characters and they become almost interchangeable. Mr. Harris is stoic, Mr. Sturgess is determined, and Mr. Farrell does a terrible Russian accent but still manages to appear menacing. That's the extent of it. When Ms. Ronan joins the group, she is the tragic figure who manages to get the men to open up a bit about themselves.

Aside from the characters lack of depth, the cinematography is gorgeous and the story is harrowing. Mr. Weir convincingly makes you feel every bit of icy cold and all the heat of the blistering sun.The ending is a bit rushed but ends on a sentimental note. It's an old fashioned adventure story filmed on location without the use of CGI and that alone makes it a breath of fresh air in what is usually the January dumping ground of movies.

Casino Jack

2011-01-09T17:36:00.004-05:00

Kevin Spacey stars as disgraced Washington "super lobbyist", Jack Abramoff in this "inspired by real events", docudrama. During the first Bush administration, Jack Abramoff was a lobbyist mostly involved in the gaming industry and in particular, Native American casinos. He had his fingers in many pies though and this is a fictionalized account of his fall from Washington grace and subsequent imprisonment.

As written, much of the film is played for laughs and it would probably be even funnier if most of what was going on at the time wasn't true. The situations are real and I would hope that the characters are enhanced "Hollywood" versions of themselves for entertainment value. Whether or not that's accurate, the film does have an essence of truth as to what goes on behind closed doors in Washington and that makes it scarier than amusing.

Mr. Spacey is great as Mr. Abramoff. He is so adept at playing these kinds of characters. He is also backed by a fine cast including Barry Pepper as his partner, Michael Scanlon, Kelly Preston as his wife Pam, and Jon Lovitz as Adam Kidan, a sleazy business partner. Mr. Lovitz is a terrific casting choice who balances comic relief and pathos in a serious part. Graham Greene and Rachelle LeFevre round out the major roles.

The film was directed by George Hickenlooper, who passed away two months before the film's release. He left behind a small but noteworthy body of work capped by the very entertaining "Casino Jack".

Blue Valentine

2011-01-04T20:40:00.001-05:00

Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling star in a story of a failing marriage. Early on we realize things are not going well between Dean and Cindy and we watch as their marriage begins to fall apart. The film takes us to various moments in their relationship to show us the good times as well as the bad. We learn how they meet, fall in love, marry and raise a daughter. I was particularly impressed with the editing of how they meet which was very unique.

Both actors are incredible. They match each other for powerful, raw performances that don't hold anything back. The film cuts back and forth in time and it is difficult to watch the hurtful, angry moments after experiencing the early tender, loving ones.

The film was directed and co-written by Derek Cianfrance. I suspect many of the scenes went off script and were improvised as so many reaction shots seem genuine and even full of surprise. If it was all scripted, credit even more, the brilliant acting by Ms. Williams and Mr. Gosling as well as Mr. Cianfrance's direction.

This is not an easy film to watch but it does reward you with two outstanding (sure to be nominated) performances.

Best & Worst of 2010

2011-01-01T19:54:00.004-05:00

BEST OF 2010

10) Winter’s Bone- Chilling realism. A glimpse into the underbelly of contemporary rural America with outstanding performances.

9) City Island- Extremely enjoyable light comedy with a great performance by Andy Garcia.

8) Toy Story 3- Superb animation and a fun filled, heartwarming story. It’s still the best.

7) The Fighter- Crowd pleasing true story of boxer Mickey Ward and his crazy family. Excellent performances all around.

6) Micmacs- French comedy from Jean-Pierre Jeunet that is an an absolute delight.

5) Black Swan- A seductive and controversial ballet thriller with a great performance by Natalie Portman.

4) Inception- Christopher Nolan does it again in this visual mindbender. We're still debating "the top".

3) The King’s Speech- Fantastic performance by Colin Firth as well as Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter in this true story of King George VI.

2) 127 Hours- Actor James Franco & Director Danny Boyle team up to create an amazing journey from a least expected situation.

1) The Social Network- The smartest and surprisingly entertaining film of the year. Great script, direction and acting.

Honorable Mention-

Let Me In- A very different sort of vampire movie.

Barney's Version- Terrific drama starring the amazing Paul Giamatti with strong support from Dustin Hoffman, Minnie Driver and Rosamund Pike.

The Secret In Their Eyes- Rich, absorbing and intelligent, drama.

WORST OF 2010

10) Shutter Island- very disappointing mess from Martin Scorsese.

9) Middlemen- Luke Wilson is terrific in a very mediocre movie.

8) Alice In Wonderland- Very disappointing. Johnny Depp lifeless as the mad hatter and Tim Burton landscapes are rehashed from previous work.

7) Robin Hood- Give me Errol Flynn.

6) Jonah Hex- Don’t bother. God knows the actors didn’t.

5) Resident Evil: "Afterlife"- There isn’t any and the 3D was lame. Even fans of the series have to admit enough is enough.

4) Knight & Day- Awful action mess. A big misstep for Cruise and Diaz.

3) Killers- Ugh. Kill me now.

2) Clash of The Titans- Boring and terrible in 3-D. Only three decent moments.

1) Cop Out- Possibly the worst "buddy-cop" movie ever. Bruce Willis just showed up for his paycheck.

The Fighter

2010-12-31T23:19:00.002-05:00

Based on the true story of Mickey Ward, a welterweight boxer from Lowell Massachusetts, this is a sure crowd pleaser and Oscar contender in multiple categories. Mark Wahlberg stars as Ward and he is the anchor of the film. Standout performances are all around him in the form of Melissa Leo as his mother, Alice, Christian Bale as his brother Dicky and Amy Adams as his girlfriend, Charlene.

While the film is about fighters, it's center is really about family. For years, Mickey has let his mother be his manager and his brother, his trainer. It hasn't gotten him anywhere except for multiple losses. He is fiercely loyal to his family but decisions have to be made.

David O. Russell directs and takes his camera directly into the eye of the hurricane of this highly dysfunctional family. Dicky had his shot in the ring but his life choices have led him astray. Mickey's last shot is redemption for both of them and the last act of the film takes us to a rousing finish.

The film also has a terrific soundtrack. Who would have thought I'd be humming "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake, as I left the theater.

Another Year

2010-12-30T16:27:00.004-05:00

Writer/director Mike Leigh's latest drama is an intimate look into the life of Tom and Gerri, a middle-aged, middle-class London couple that literally transpires over the course of a year. Divided into the four seasons, "Another Year" examines the impact and contrast of Tom & Gerri's happy, content life with the lives of their friends Mary and Ken as well as their son, Joe. The brilliant cast is led by Jim Broadbent and Ruth Sheen as Tom and Gerri.

Mary's life has been a series of failures and she clings to the warmth of her friend's marriage as a lifeline with one hand on the rope and the other wrapped perpetually around a wine glass. Played by Leslie Manville, Mary's downward spiral is hard to watch but heartbreakingly real. It's the standout performance of the film. Ken(Peter Wight), on the other hand has also had his failures. However, instead of fooling himself into thinking he's still got a chance at happiness, he's resigned himself to being a chain smoking, overweight drunk. Ken's attempt at courting Mary is only one of the many painful scenes throughout the film.

The counterbalance to the heartbreak and pain is the positive anchor of Tom & Gerri. Theirs' is such a strong, happy marriage that it almost falls into caricature. Can anyone be that happy? And can that happiness be absorbed by others? Credit Mr. Leigh with casting actors that never look or feel like they're acting. Furthermore, directing them with an improvisational style that gives the viewer a sense of watching real people navigate their lives... for better or worse.

All Good Things

2010-12-30T15:39:00.002-05:00

Ryan Gosling and Kirsten Dunst star in this "truth is stranger than fiction" crime drama. This is the fictionalized account of the Robert Durst scandal in New York during the '80's. Mr. Durst was the wealthy son of a New York real estate magnate who was suspected of killing his wife but never charged as her body was never found. The story got stranger as time went on and the film captures all of it with a knockout performance from Mr. Gosling as David Marks (aka Robert Durst).

The film also stars Frank Langella as Sandford Marks, David's father and the wonderful Philip Baker Hall as Malvern Bump, a man David befriends later in life only to get him caught up in his nefarious actions. Lily Rabe also co-stars as another important woman in David's life. Mr. Langella is so good at playing the strong-willed, overbearing patriarch and Mr. Baker Hall is woefully sympathetic as a man driven to circumstances beyond his control.

The story starts out simply enough as David and Katie (Ms. Dunst) meet, fall in love and marry but as the years progress, David's mental instability begins to come to the surface and and the "good things" take a turn for the worse. The film is directed by Andrew Jarecki, who's last film was the documentary "Capturing The Friedmans". It's a fascinating story and will definitely make you curious about the actual events. Thank goodness for Wikpedia.

The Tourist

2010-12-28T18:17:00.001-05:00

European in style and Hitchcockian in nature, "The Tourist" will come as a disappointment for most mainstream audiences. The problem occurs when you attach two of the biggest stars on the planet (known mostly for action films) and you don't give them the big "Hollywood" action film the audience expects. Earlier this year, George Clooney failed for the same reason in "The American".

Angelina Jolie is the mystery woman Elise and Johnny Depp is Frank, the title character. Ms. Jolie is actually terrific in the role, glamorous, mysterious, and dangerous all at the same time. Mr. Depp is terribly miscast as Frank and their lack of chemistry proves the point. Mr. Depp can be many things but coming across as a mild mannered math teacher from Wisconsin is not one of them.

The film is directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmark, who did a brilliant job on "The Lives of Others". Here, as a European director, he is asked to do an American remake of a French film that will appeal to American audiences. This is not Mr. Henckel von Donnersmark's strength and he ends up with a hybrid of styles that ultimately fail. The only star here that really shines is Venice (where the film takes place) as the beauty of the city is revealed through the director's eye.

Some foreign films, in the wrong hands, just don't translate well into American films. If you were intrigued by the idea of "The Tourist", seek out the French original, "Anthony Zimmer". I hear it's terrific.

True Grit

2010-12-27T20:59:00.002-05:00

I love a good western and "True Grit" is a good western. Is it great? No, I don't think so. In my humble opinion, The Coen brothers didn't need to do their own version of this film. I'm a huge fan of their work but this time out, they really don't infuse the story with their signature style. Even though they have tackled many genres, there is always something about their films that is distinctively "Coen Brothers". Their only mark on the retelling of "True Grit", is the fantastic cinematography of Roger Deakins.

Casting Jeff Bridges as "Rooster Cogburn", they might as well have called the film, "True Grunt". It's almost impossible to understand his dialog and subtitles would have been a blessing. As for his acting, he does redefine the role made famous by John Wayne but he plays it like an early ancestor of his "Crazy Heart" character, "Bad Blake". Matt Damon does a stalwart job as "LaBouf", the Texas Ranger. Josh Brolin gets top billing along with the others but his role is nothing more than a two scene cameo. The real praise must be given to Hailee Steinfeld as "Mattie Ross". Ms. Steinfeld won the role after apparently 15,000 girls auditioned for the role. The filmmakers got it right. This is her first film and she steals the movie with maturity and a natural charm.

The Coen brothers insisted this was not a remake but rather their own version of the book but if you watch the original film, you will still see that many of the scenes are shot for shot in the new version. I was hoping to heap accolades upon this film but I would give them to "A Serious Man", the Coen Brothers last film released in 2009 with an original story and better acting.

Black Swan

2010-12-26T21:14:00.003-05:00

Darren Aronofsky brings us another minor masterpiece with "Black Swan". Using the same hand held technique he did in "Requiem For A Dream", he creates a claustrophobic world of ballet seen through the eyes of Nina Sayers, the dancer picked to play the Swan Queen in a new production of "Swan Lake".

Natalie Portman plays Nina. She is wonderful in a complex and difficult role as she slowly succumbs to the pressure of the lead. She also does an admirable job with her dancing as it is obviously her in many of the ballet sequences. Vincent Cassel, plays the controlling and manipulative dance company director and Barbara Hershey plays Erica Sayers, Nina's mother who has issues of her own. Winona Ryder has a small but pivotal role as Beth MacIntyre, the lead ballerina forced out by Cassel.

A real revelation (besides Ms. Portman) is Mila Kunis, who until now has not had any really significant parts. Here, she plays another ballerina who befriends Nina and yet is a rival for the Swan Queen. She shows a new maturity and depth to her acting. Ms. Kunis also does much of her own dancing quite well (at least to my untrained eye).

Mr. Aronofsky leads us into the world of ballet and then builds the suspense to a breaking point of an ending. The film has it's moments of beauty, shock and controversy and expect to be caught in it's seductive power.

TRON:Legacy

2010-12-25T12:00:00.003-05:00

"Tron: Legacy" in IMAX 3-D is less a movie and more an amusement park ride. You are totally immersed in the digital world of the grid and it truly stimulates the senses. The audio and visual effects are wonderful and it really is quite the ride.

On the other hand, the plot is thin and the acting fairly robotic (especially considering two of the major characters are non-human). Jeff Bridges does double duty here as his image from the original film (some 30 years ago) is digital reproduced as the villain, "CLU" and he also plays his current age as Flynn, the inventor of Tron, trapped in his own creation. Garrett Hedlund, plays Sam, his adult son, drawn into the digital world who reunites with his father to bring down "CLU". Mr. Hedlund handles himself well in all the action sequences and also gets some help from the digital creation "Quorra", played by Olivia Wilde. The film also brings back Bruce Boxleitner (the original Tron) in a sentimental small role. Rounding out the major cast of characters is Michael Sheen, playing a digitally androgynous character named "Castor" who comes across as David Bowie circa "Ziggy Stardust".

Aside from the obvious father-son connection, the thread of a plot is concerned with "CLU" invading the real world with a digital army. There's lots of cyber speak and Mr. Bridges, as Flynn, talks a lot of Zen philosophy but you don't go to see Tron for the plot. This is all about the visuals and they are stunning. The "games" and various chase sequences are lots of fun and if you don't try to hard to understand the story, you will have a good time "lost" in this digital landscape.

The Company Men

2010-12-15T23:49:00.001-05:00

Last year, "Up In The Air" showed us what it was like to fire people in a downsizing economy. "The Company Men" gives us an idea of the receiving end of those pink slips. Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones and Chris Cooper are three levels of executives downsized by their company during the economic crash of 2008.

The film is both scary and depressing as writer/director John Wells holds a mirror up to the harsh reality of the employment crisis in this country. The film does have some redeeming moments though, most notably in the acting of it's three leads, each handling their situation in a different way. The script tends towards the melodramatic extreme in the case of Mr. Affleck and his family as their life crashes around them in less than a year but everything else about the film feels real.

A big surprise in the film is Kevin Costner, who shines in a supporting role as Mr. Affleck's brother-in-law. Out of the star spotlight, he can relax and just act naturally in his best role in years. Rosemary DeWitt is also excellent as Mr. Affleck's wife, standing by her man, even as everything they have is stripped away.

"The Company Men" is a hard sell as escapist entertainment when the subject matter is all round us but if you appreciate good acting, see it for the cast. They do their best to help the rest of us cope.

The Warrior's Way

2010-12-15T00:59:00.001-05:00

A mash up of a samurai sword epic and a classic American western, this psychedelic genre crasher is a lot of fun. Filmed in New Zealand but mostly CGI green screen work, the film looks great and the stunts are plentiful.

The film's name stars are Geoffrey Rush, ("slumming" after what will be an Oscar nomination for "The King's Speech") as a drunken marksman, Danny Huston as the outrageous villain (disfigured face and all), and Kate Bosworth as the plucky love interest, good with blades of all kinds. Diminutive actor Tony Cox also has a key roll as "Eightball", the little person with a big heart. The real star, however, is the Asian actor Jang Dong-Gun, who makes intricate swordplay look easy.

When you take a semi-deserted town, throw in a bunch of circus rejects, add a bunch of villainous cowboys and ninja warriors, you get one crazy mix of a movie but writer/director Sngmoo Lee makes it work. It's got plenty of comic book violence, colorful characters and the most expressive baby I've ever seen.

If you're looking for something really different, "The Warrior's Way" fits the bill.

Barney's Version

2010-12-10T00:52:00.001-05:00

Released in a very limited run (probably for Oscar consideration), this is a little Indie film with a big emotional payoff. Based on the novel by Mordecai Richler, this is the story of Barney Panofsky and the journey through his adult life. It's dramatic with some comedic moments and you will quickly find yourself emotionally invested in Barney's life through all his ups and downs.

Paul Giamatti plays Barney and his rich, layered, terrific performance pulls you in and keeps you there for the entire ride. It's easily one of his best roles. Supporting him are Dustin Hoffman as Izzy, his father, along with Minnie Driver and Rosamund Pike as two important women in his life. Mr. Hoffman is a joy to watch as he makes the most of his supporting character (he gets most of the laughs). Ms. Driver portrays a Montreal "Jewish American Princess" very accurately and Ms. Pike is a breath of fresh air in a role I will not reveal.

Richard J. Lewis directs this gem and condenses an adult lifetime into little more than two hours running time without sacrificing major plot points. Watching the film, you can imagine the complexity of the novel but the edited screenplay still captures the heart of the story and Mr. Lewis moves things along at a comfortable pace.

What makes everything work so well is Mr. Giamatti's portrayal of this fascinating character. I hope the release strategy pays off and he is recognized for his fine work here.

The King's Speech

2010-11-28T18:07:00.001-05:00

The true story of King George VI of England, who reluctantly becomes ruler when his brother abdicates the throne in 1936. His reluctance is due to a terrible stammer that destroys his confidence to rule. His wife, Queen Elizabeth finds speech therapist, Lionel Logue to help with the King's problem. Lionel's unconventional treatments eventually lead the two men to a life-long friendship.

Colin Firth stars as King George and Geoffrey Rush plays Lionel Logue. These two actors are at the top of their game and are wonderful to watch as they bond over the King's problem. Mr. Firth is marvelous in a role with such vocal difficulty. Mr. Rush also shines as the commoner, not afraid of royalty but rather committed to helping a man in dire need. They should both easily get Oscar nominations for this film. Also outstanding is Helena Bonham Carter as Queen Elizabeth. She makes the queen regal and yet, so human as a wife and mother.

Director Tom Hooper captures the period along with all the pomp and circumstance of the royal family perfectly. He directs an all star cast that also includes Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall, Michael Gambon and Sir Derek Jacobi. The film is obviously very British but the story holds a universal appeal. With perseverance, one can overcome handicaps and go on to great things.

Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows: Part 1

2010-11-26T15:41:00.002-05:00

Let's be real here. We're up to film number seven in the series. At this point, you're either a fan or couldn't care less. And if you are a fan, the film is pretty much critic proof. Warner Brothers decided to split the last book into two films. They claimed it was to enrich the story. Since we're being real here, let's be honest and realize they are milking the Harry Potter cash cow to the last drop.

The film picks up where we've left off with Harry and his friends on the run from the forces of Voldemort, trying to find the Horcruxes that will destroy Voldemort's power. The most original thing about the film is how it opens up the story from the confines of Hogwarts and ends up a travelogue for the British Isles. Otherwise, it's all the characters you've come to love (or hate) doing what they do best.

The film could have been done in one part if it didn't need to include countless scenes of Harry, Hermione, and Ron sitting around beautiful locations contemplating their next move in the war against Voldemort. There are some well done action sequences but they are far and few between. The look of the film is consistent with the others in the series. Dark is the operative word both figuratively and literally.

It's been fun to watch stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rubert Grint grow up and mature with each film. And as for the supporting cast, I think every British actor (with the exception of Hugh Grant) makes an appearance in "Part 1". There's still time for Hugh to show up in "Part 2".

I have to hold off complete judgment until "Part 2" next year when the series finally comes to an end. Wow, think of all the British actors who will end up "on the dole" after that.

127 Hours

2010-11-20T22:01:00.002-05:00

Director Danny Boyle and actor James Franco team up for an unforgettable experience. The film is based on the true story of Aron Ralston, an extreme sports enthusiast and in the hands of another director, it could easily have been a two hour bore. Utilizing similar techniques first seen in "Trainspotting", Mr. Boyle takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotion watching James Franco try to survive, trapped in a rocky gully in the Utah Canyonlands.

Mr. Boyle mixes audio and video imagery to create a non-stop rush of flashbacks, hallucinations, and agonizing close-ups of Mr. Franco's efforts to free himself from an seemingly impossible situation. There is a scene late in the film that is definitely not for the faint-hearted and by film's end, you will feel drained and exhausted as if you were actually there.

Credit Mr. Franco with his best role to date, bringing you into Aron's world and experiencing every moment of joy, agony, and everything in-between. He is in almost every frame and it is simply an amazing performance.

I won't explain any plot points or individual scenes. Try to see this film with little or no knowledge of what actually happened to Aron Ralston. "127 Hours" will reward your time and come next year, Oscar will surely reward "127 Hours". Danny Boyle has done it again.

Fair Game

2010-11-06T17:29:00.001-04:00

"Fair Game" is an uncharacteristic dud from director Doug Liman, best known for the "Bourne" films. This political drama is based on a true story of an exposed CIA agent during the Saddam years in Iraq. The film stars Naomi Watts as agent, Valerie Plame and Sean Penn as her husband, former Ambassador, Joseph Wilson.

The first hour is all background information on Valarie's operations around the world and our government zeroing in on supposed WMD's in Iraq. We get to the crux of the story when Joe writes a piece in The New York Times, calling the Bush Adminstration liars after he finds no WMD's on an overseas mission. The government then exposes Valerie in an attempt to deflect attention to their impending Iraq invasion. The story was a mild sensation for a moment and Mr. Liman tries in vain to create a "thriller" out of it. The closest the film comes to excitement is whether or not their marriage will survive the exposure and it's consequences.

Naomi Watts gives it her best as Valerie as does Sean Penn as Joe. I'm sure Mr. Penn was excited about a role where he gets to criticize the government multiple times. Their scenes together are strong but there is just not enough of a story here to keep an audience thoroughly engaged. Yes, you will be angry at what Mr. Bush and his "henchmen" do this family but the film brings nothing new to the story. In the end, the most interesting thing about "Fair Game" is Mr. Penn's haircut choice.

The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest

2010-10-31T17:54:00.001-04:00

The original Swedish "Millennium Trilogy" films have reached their conclusion. What started out in "Dragon Tattoo" as a enthralling mystery, continued in "Played with Fire" as an action thriller, now concludes with "Hornet's Nest" as a "talking head" thriller designed to wrap up all the loose ends.

The screenplay once again trims much of the book down to the central story, eliminating sub-plots and details. There is also some tweaking of story elements as cinematic timesavers. Reduced to the basic plot, it still provides closure for the fans and star Noomi Rapace never falters in her perfect performance as Lisbeth Salander.

If you haven't read the books or seen the first two films, "Hornet's Nest" will hold no interest for you even though there is much exposition to bring the audience up to speed. The political tone of the book tries to be replicated but everything about "The Section" is sliced thin to save time. What does remain, is the regrettable first half that find Lisbeth confined to a hospital bed, switching much of the story to Blomkvist and his quest to clear her name and expose "The Section". This read well in the book but slows things to a crawl in the film. The action picks up in the final act during Lisbeth's trial and even just sitting in the courtroom, Ms. Rapace lets her minimal facial expressions do all her necessary acting.

It will be interesting to see how David Fincher will reinterpret the story in his English versions which are filming now with Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara. But for those fans who can't wait, the original Swedish films are now complete and it will be hard to imagine anyone else as perfect as Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist than Noomi Rapace and Michael Nyqvist.

Devil

2010-10-21T10:07:00.003-04:00

A smart marketing campaign tells you this film is "from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan" so of course you are mildly interested since he has done good work in the past. However, while he wrote the story, he neither wrote the screenplay or directed the film. You would think in the hands of others, his material (which always starts out strong) would not fall apart at the end. "Devil" is a silly premise that is well executed and while it doesn't completely fall apart, the ending could have been stronger.

The story concerns five people trapped in the elevator of a high-rise office building and the various people trying to get them out. We learn early on that one of them is the devil in disguise. What works best here is the lack of superstar casting. You will recognize most of the cast but they are not your typical "A" actors and for that reason alone, the film will keep you guessing as the bodies begin to pile up.

The camerawork is very well done and has some unique perspectives. In particular, the opening credits disorient you right from the start. Keeping most of the action within the tight confines of the elevator, the camera keeps things fresh as we view everything from different angles and monitors.

In the end, this is just an extended "Twilight Zone" episode with all it's morality. A more exciting ending would have taken it to another level.

RED

2010-10-17T16:06:00.002-04:00

Not a documentary about an music distribution company (although that would probably make a fun film), but rather a silly, over the top but very enjoyable action comedy. "RED" is based on a graphic novel, and it's enjoyment is based on watching four very capable actors come out of CIA retirement to find out who is targeting them for assassination. "The Expendables" employed a similar idea earlier this year, taking action heroes of the '80's and dropping them into one last warzone. "Red" is filled with explosions and gunfire but the pedigree cast adds humor and class to all the noise around them.

Who can resist Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren bringing down the police departments of multiple states as well as corrupt CIA agents? Throw in Brian Cox as a sly Russian agent and Mary Louise Parker as Mr. Willis's reluctant girlfriend, dragged into the chaos and you have a dream cast that is obviously having as much fun on screen as we are watching them. And it's good to see Richard Dreyfuss and especially Ernest Borgnine back on screen.

We've seen this plot before but it moves at a rapid pace and is never dull. The action is completely unbelievable and yet, with these pros at work, it's still a lot of fun.

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

2010-10-16T13:04:00.001-04:00

Michael Douglas reprises his role as Gordon Gekko in this entertaining sequel. While his name is above the credits, his role is secondary to that of Shia LaBeouf, who steals the movie as Jacob, a hungry young financial "player" who tries to balance his financial lust with his love for Gekko's daughter, Winnie, played by Cary Mulligan.

Oliver Stone once again directs but while fun, the film doesn't have the impact of his earlier work. There are far too many tracking shots of Manhattan trying to emphasize how the city is the center of the financial world. The acting for the most part is good, although Cary Mulligan is miscast as Winnie. Josh Brolin makes a very good villain and Frank Langella is impactful in a small role.

What really shines is the script. Even if you are not a financial "wiz", the story is easy to follow and laced with terrific dialog. However, I did have a problem with two plot points. When we first see Gekko, he is being released from prison. The film then jumps 8 years to 2008. That makes sense as the story is set during the worst financial collapse since 1929. However, we never understand how Gekko climbs back and learns to navigate in the new digital financial world. My other problem is understanding why Winnie would be attracted to Jacob in the first place, since she abhors everything about her father's world.

"Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" is a decent investment of your time. And yes that was a bad pun but it's also a key theme of the film.

Let Me In

2010-10-10T00:55:00.002-04:00

A Hollywood remake that actually gets it right and is as good or possibly even better than the original, "Let The Right One In". This is a atmospheric, creepy and at times, horrific vampire movie that sets itself apart from any other vampire/horror film coming out of the Hollywood machine today.

As lonely 12 year old Owen befriends the mysterious Abby, brutal killings begin to occur. Writer/director Matt Reeves, known for "Cloverfield", does an terrific job, first adapting the screenplay and then slowly building the suspense, driving excellent performances from his young actors. Kodi Smit-McPhee plays Owen and he acts way beyond his years with heartbreaking conviction. Chole Grace Moretz (the breakout star of "Kick-Ass") plays Abby, with a winning seduction of both Owen and the audience. One of the creepiest character actors working today, Elias Koteas, plays the fairly normal role of the policeman investigating the killings. And the wonderful Richard Jenkins also stars in a very pivotal role which I will not reveal.

Mr. Reeves sets up wonderful camera angles, unusual points of view, and makes great use of both the light and the dark. While much of the film is a slow build of dread, there are enough flashes of horror to jolt the viewer through to its inevitable conclusion. I can't imagine this film doing great box office as today's horror audiences want quick shock value. "Let Me In" will reward a patient audience and may haunt you long after it's over.

The Social Network

2010-10-02T18:30:00.003-04:00

Timely and relevant, "The Social Network" really does define a generation. Director David Fincher and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin have created an remarkable film based on the creation of Facebook. Mr. Sorkin's source material was "The Accidental Billionaires" by Ben Mizrich and using his talent for intelligent, rapid fire dialogue, and sharp wit, he, along with Mr. Fincher, have brought the story to life in a very smart and entertaining film.

Mr. Fincher's direction is crisp and economical. Nothing is wasted and every scene sparkles with great dialogue and terrific acting. He continues to astound us with remarkable digital work, creating the important characters of identical twins by overlapping one actor's face and voice over the body of another. It's a seamless digital trick that is incredibly realistic. But his work with the other actors is just as strong. Jesse Eisenberg stars as Mark Zuckerberg, the computer genius but socially inept creator of Facebook. Mr. Eisenberg is perfectly cast and this takes his signature style to another level. The film also stars Justin Timberlake as Napster creator, Sean Parker and Mr. Timberlake continues to grow as an actor with a real star quality. Armie Hammer co-stars as the aforementioned identical Winklevoss twins who sued Mr. Zuckerberg over the idea of Facebook. And another star in the making is Andrew Garfield as Eduardo Saverin, Mr. Zuckerberg's partner who also ends up suing him.

The action moves back and forth between the past and the two lawsuits as we watch Mr. Zuckerberg bring Facebook to life while ironically alienating everyone else around him. He is brilliant but totally lacking in social skills, as we painfully discover in the opening scene. A scene in which we are also introduced to Roony Mara, the young actress Mr. Fincher cast as Lisbeth Salander in the upcoming American version of "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo". Skeptical at first of this casting decision, after watch her in this film, I look forward to her portrayal of Ms. Salander.

The film works on so many levels. How much of it is actually true will be left to debate but as a source of entertainment, it is outstanding. Expect a "Best Picture" nomination and see it before you read all about it on Facebook.

The Town

2010-09-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

Ben Affleck is developing a nice second career as a director. "The Town" doesn't have quite the character development of "Gone Baby Gone" but it's a taut crime drama with well done action sequences and some original moments.

Mr. Affleck directs himself and he is actually quite good as the bank robber with a conscience. Jeremy Renner, plays his childhood friend and partner in crime, "Gem" with a psychotic attitude and realistic menace. The film also stars Jon Hamm, as the FBI agent tracking them but it's hard to think of Mr. Hamm other than Don Draper from "Mad Men". He tries too hard to shed his signature character. Rebecca Hall and Blake Lively co-star as the women in Mr. Affleck's life and it's always good to see Pete Postlehwaite on screen, even if it's a minor role.

There are some exciting chase sequences through the streets of Boston and Fenway Park features prominently in the finale. The cinematography is crisp and for the most part, the editing is sharp. A definite recommendation.

Resident Evil: Afterlife 3-D

2010-09-22T22:19:00.002-04:00

If you are a fan of this seemingly endless series, then you will make it your business to go. If not, stay as far from this worthless piece of celluloid as you can. Milla Jovovich returns as "Alice", the physically enhanced zombie fighter along with Allie Larter, as her zombie killing partner.

The film is a tired retread of all it's previous incarnations, ripping off "The Matrix" along the way. The gimmick, this time, to sell tickets is that it's in 3D. Unfortunately, this is the worst 3D film since "Clash of The Titans". The film is dark, the effects are cheesy and the medium is wasted.

Just remember, I see these films so you don't have to...

Who is Harry Nilsson (and why is everyone talking about him)?

2010-09-11T12:53:00.002-04:00

Many people know the songs (Without You, Everybody's Talking, Coconut, One, Me And My Arrow, etc...) but not everyone knows the name. Writer/Director John Scheinfeld remedies that with this new documentary.

Using rare, never seen before film clips as well as home movies and personal photos, Mr. Scheinfeld weaves an intimate portrait of the artist and the man. There are also dozens of interviews with friends, family and celebrities including Yoko Ono, Robin Williams, Brian Wilson, Eric Idle, Randy Newman, Jimmy Webb, the Smothers Brothers and many others.

The film starts with his early years growing up in Brooklyn, New York and moves through his career path showing us the highs and lows along the way. Mr. Nilsson reached his greatest success with "Nilsson Schmilsson", his most widely recognized album, produced by Richard Perry. There is some wonderful film footage of them in the studio as well as recollections by Mr. Perry of their years together. The Beatles had called Nilsson, their "favorite group" and the film has some great moments documenting his close relationship with both John Lennon and Ringo Starr.

After the success of "Nilsson Schmilsson", Mr. Nilsson's life began a terrible downward spiral and the film takes a honest look at the gifted artist on the road to self destruction. Mr. Scheinfeld balances the destructive "bad boy" with the loving family man and really answers the title question. It's a labor of love filled with great music and visuals that even a casual fan will enjoy.

Machete

2010-09-06T18:17:00.003-04:00

Based on his fake trailer, writer/director Robert Rodriguez crafts a film filled with mayhem, violence, girls with guns, nudity, explosions, lots of fake blood and Robert DeNiro. Sometimes a film like "Machete" is just what the doctor ordered. Designed like a '70's exploitation film, "Machete" is the type of film best enjoyed in a drive-in as a double feature with "Piranha 3-D".

This mindless "popcorn" movie is actually a lot of fun when you go in knowing what to expect and get exactly what you pay for. It's great to see character actor Danny Trejo finally get star billing and his hard, weather beaten look is just perfect for the title character. The supporting cast is really amazing. When will you ever see a film again with Robert DeNiro (as a sleazy, racist, senator), Steven Segal (as a Latin crime lord), Don Johnson (as a racist vigilante), and Lindsey Lohan (shooting up people dressed in a nun's habit)? The movie also stars Jeff Fahey, Jessica Alba, Michele Rodriguez and Cheech Marin as one character more outrageous than the next.

Lost in the mayhem is a point about immigration laws and illegal immigrants (mostly from Mexico) but "Machete" makes too much fun of itself to be taken seriously. This film is so over the top, it's halfway down the other side.

Mesrine: Public Enemy #1 (Part Two)

2010-09-06T01:13:00.002-04:00

The French crime epic "Mesrine" has been split into two separate films here in the U.S. but I'm not sure how it played in France. Having now seen the entire story, it could have been edited into one three hour film that probably would have worked even better. Part two, "Public Enemy" picks up moments after the start of the first film and like the first, dissolves into flashbacks to bring the story full circle.

Vincent Cassel continues an electrifying performance as the title character. As part two takes place in the '70's, we now find Mesrine older, heavier and a complete attention seeking egomaniac. Having made a daring escape from a courtroom (a terrific sequence), Mesrine's infamy continues to grow and he feeds off the fame with even more daring robberies and escapes.

Along for the ride this time is Mathieu Amalric as Mesrine's partner in crime, until even he is fed up with the antics of the publicity seeking criminal. Again, there is a daring prison break and also a great car chase through the streets of Paris. However, here is where part two begins to falter. While the first film moved at a kinetic pace, the second takes a different approach and slows down the story with much longer sequences. It begins to get repetitive and has more tedious moments in between the action. This is where more editing could have consolidated both films into one.

Having said that, it's still important to see both films and experience the full story. Mr. Cassel brings Mesrine to life and even through the slow spots is still mesmerizing to watch.