True Grit (2010) Directed by Ethan Coen & Joel Coen Length: 110 minutes Rated PG-13 for some intense sequences of western violence including disturbing images
Once upon a time in a wild land called Hollywood, the Western genre - with tales of cowboys and outlaws, women and drink, Indians and sheriffs - ruled the silverscreen. Since the greats like Sergio Leone's Spaghetti Westerns (For a Few Dollars More; The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly), John Wayne's instantly recognizable drawl, Clint Eastwood's storied career sporting spurs, and more, the Western genre has largely gone the way of the dinosaurs. That is to say, most modern film viewers are not fans of the "old-time Westerns." When the Coen brothers, famous for their critically acclaimed yet challenging art films, announced their intentions to re-make the classic 1969 Western True Grit, many wondered what the hell was happening. Perhaps more famous as the only role John Wayne won an Oscar for, would this modern version prove to be another Coen art project? Or would audiences be reintroduced to the Western genre and its great history?
True Grit focuses on Mattie Ross, phenomenally played by 14-year old newcomer Hailee Steinfeld (Sons of Tuscon, Summer Camp), a precocious and persistent young lady intent on avenging the murder of her father by Tom Chaney, an all to brief performance by Josh Brolin (Men in Black III, Jonah Hex). In order to track Chaney and bring him to justice, Mattie hires drunk, fat, and cantankerous U.S. Marshall Reuben "Rooster" Cogburn, the amazing Jeff Bridges (TRON: Legacy, Pablo) once again showing his immense talent. Additionally, Matt Damon (The Adjustment Bureau, Hereafter) as the braggadocious Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, pronounced "la beef", joins the crew in hopes of capturing Chaney for the murder of a Texas senator.
While Steinfeld's first major performance as Mattie Ross is incredible considering her relative inexperience, there is no denying the brilliance of Jeff Bridges. Literally replacing an actor in an legendary and award winning role can be daunting for any performer, but Bridges has succeeded in making Rooster Cogburn his own. The drunken buffoon made the film feel more like a comedy about a washed-up Marshall and less prone to the stereotypical Western cliches. Bridges may not win Best Actor for the second year in a row at the upcoming Oscars, but his performance is without a doubt one of the best of the year.
The Coen brothers have managed to avoid making a film that feels "too artsy" as so many of their films often do (look no further than last year's Jewish culture satire A Serious Man). In fact, though deemed a Western, the feeling is more comedy than traditional Western. While all the elements necessary to the genre are present, True Grit is a tremendously accessible film that can be enjoyed by all types, critics and casual movie goers alike. Be sure to catch this one as soon as you can!
Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Cross-examining lawyer: "So, you say that when Amos Wharton raised his axe, you backed away from him?" Rooster Cogburn: "That's right." Cross-examining lawyer: "In what direction were you going?" Rooster Cogburn: "Backwards. I always go backwards when I back up."
Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Art Direction Best Achievement in Cinematography Best Achievement in Costume Design Best Achievement in Directing - Ethan & Joel Coen Best Achievement in Sound Editing Best Achievement in Sound Mixing Best Motion Picture Best Actor in a Leading Role - Jeff Bridges Best Supporting Actress - Hailee Steinfeld Best Adapted Screenplay
Hollywood loves a film about personal triumphs. Just think about films in the past that have won or competed for several Oscars: Forrest Gump, Rain Man, The Elephant Man, My Left Foot, etc. While The King's Speech is less about physical deformities and more about Freudian psychological trauma leading to disabilities, the latest uplifting tale of King George VI's struggles with a terrible stutter promise to contend for several golden statues. But is The King's Speech another example of Oscar love for a stuffy British drama? Unfortunately, it would seem so.
Colin Firth (Main Street; Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy) continues to amaze with another award worthy performance as King George VI. A former British naval officer, "Berty," as his family affectionately calls him, is forced to become king when his older brother vacates the throne for a twice divorced American. However, Berty has a crippling stutter that often incites more snickering and doubting than patriotism. With the imminent threat of war with Germany (WWII) and the responsibilities of being a member of the British royal family, Berty seeks the help of a speech therapist, a former actor Lionel Logue, played by Geoffrey Rush (The Warrior's Way, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides). With an unorthodox methodology consisting of cursing and singing, can Logue help Berty lead the British Empire into war?
Without a doubt, the main focus of the film is the relationship between King George VI and Logue. This humorous and sometimes intense friendship makes up the majority of the film. While watching a member of the British royalty curse for the first time with great zeal is quite funny, The King's Speech definitely feels "British" throughout - stuffy and a bit rigid. Several critics have stated how accessible the film is to the masses but be warned this is still very much a period piece.
So is the film worthy of all the Oscar buzz? Not really. That isn't to say the film is not enjoyable, but best picture it is not. Firth is once again worthy of the critical praise for his portrayal of King George VI; however, his nominated role for last year's A Single Man seemed to be the more award worthy performance. Additionally, Rush fills the "funny sideman" role well with his eccentric turn as the king's speech therapist. Bottom line, the film is certainly enjoyable. But let's pump the brakes when it comes to the Oscar buzz.
Final Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Lionel Logue: "Do you know the 'f' word?" King George VI: "Ffff...fornication?"
Oscar Winners Best Motion Picture Best Actor in a Leading Role - Colin Firth Best Achievement in Directing - Tom Hooper Best Original Screenplay Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Art Direction Best Achievement in Cinematography Best Achievement in Costume Design Best Achievement in Editing Best Original Score Best Achievement in Sound Mixing Best Supporting Actor - Geoffrey Rush Best Supporting Actress - Helen Bonham Carter
Black Swan (2010) Directed by Darren Aronofsky Length: 108 minutes Rated R for strong sexual content, disturbing violent images, language, and some drug use
Oh, Darren Aronofsky, how your films continue to excite, terrify, and confuse. Anyone expecting a petite and pretty film about ballet is sorely mistaken as Aronofsky has quickly developed a reputation for his David Lynch-esq films consisting of dark imagery, gritty performances, and manic storytelling. While Black Swan may confuse or deter the average movie goer, film aficionados will appreciate this beautifully executed piece of art.
Natalie Portman (No Strings Attached, Thor) brilliantly portrays Nina Sayers - a sweet, virginal, repressed ballet dancer that strives for perfection and eloquence. Nina's ballet company announces they will perform a new rendition of the classic Swan Lake - with the lead playing both the innocent White Swan and the dangerous and sultry Black Swan. Though Nina displays why she is the perfect choice for the White Swan, can she become her evil alter-ego the Black Swan?
Black Swan serves as a giant metaphor for the lengths artist go to in order to embody their characters - essentially, a look into method acting if you will. Portman's amazing turn as Nina is the stuff Hollywood immortalizes for ages. Living at home with an overbearing and obsessive mother, Nina struggles to find her inner Black Swan stymied by her own innocence and her mother's constant meddling. When you can't even masturbate because your mother is sleeping in your room, you know you have problems. The brilliance of Portman's portrayal is the gradual transformation Nina undergoes from the innocent White Swan to the dangerous and frightening Black Swan. The last ten minutes of the film are spent in a split-persona haze with the audience left grasping for a ledge on which to hang.
Darren Aronofsky may not make films for the average man or woman (an attribute soon to change as he prepares to direct The Wolverine), but passing on Black Swan simply because you may not "get it" would be a travesty. Natalie Portman is amazing, brilliant, and downright scary at times in her best role yet. The level of dedication illustrated by Portman alone should entice you (Portman reportedly trained for over a year for the role). Give Black Swan a try, if only to admire the sure to be nominated performance by Portman. Who knows, you may discover you're a fan of the ballet after all!
Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Thomas: "I have a little homework assignment for you. I want you to go home and touch yourself."
Oscar Winners Best Actress in a Leading Role - Natalie Portman Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Cinematography Best Achievement in Directing - Darren Aronofsky Best Achievement in Editing Best Motion Picture
The Fighter (2010) Directed by David O. Russell Length: 115 minutes Rated R for language throughout, drug content, some violence, and sexuality
Academy awards and boxing films seem to go hand-in-hand, a cinematic peanut butter and jelly combo. Much like its pugilistic predecessors - Raging Bull, Million Dollar Baby, Rocky, Cinderella Man - The Fighter is sure to be nominated for several awards and rightfully so. This modern biopic takes the typical underdog story and adds layer after layer of obstacles in the form of the protagonist's own "support" system. A drug addicted brother, a meddlesome and greedy family, and a case of self-depreciation all make for a powerful yet fun film.
Mark Walhberg (The Other Guys, Ted) plays "Irish" Mickey Ward, a soft-spoken up-and-coming boxer known for his brawling style in the ring. Though Ward has the talent and the ability to win a title, several obstacles have led to repeated defeats in the ring. Ward's half-brother and trainer Dicky Eklund, played by the amazing Christian Bale (The 13 Women of Nanjing, The Dark Knight Rises), knows what Ward needs to win it all, but his crack addiction and obsession with his past glory threaten to destroy any chance his brother may have at a title. Coupled with an over-bearing and greedy mother/manager, played by Melissa Leo (Treme, Red State), Ward faces several obstacles that threaten to derail his promising career.
Walhberg, as the star and protagonist of the film, does a good job, but his performance is vastly overshadowed by the manic, hilarious, tragic, and brilliant performance delivered by Christian Bale. Bale has been mentioned as an Oscar nominee potential, but it would be next to impossible to fathom anyone denying Bale his first Oscar award. Additionally, Leo's turn as the manager/mother of Ward is equally impressive. Catty, greedy, and downright despicable, Leo's selfish mother is the perfect foil to Ward's dedication and gentle nature. The redemptive message of the film is most evident during a touching scene between Bale and Leo in which he subdues her anger by sharing a song even though she has just caught him leaving a crack den. Additionally, Amy Adams (On the Road, Leap Year) as Mickey's girlfriend and supporter Charlene Fleming shows she can do more than play the pretty and innocent girl. The heavy drinking, hard hitting Charlene acts as the voice for Mickey when he most needs to stand-up for himself, providing some of most humorous scenes as Charlene gets into a massive cat-fight with Mickey's gaggle of Bostonian sisters.
While the focus is less on the boxing and more on the drama, the level of dedication evident by each of the actors is immediately apparent. Without a doubt, The Fighter is one of the year's best films and will be a strong contender come Oscar time. Christian Bale alone makes the film worth seeing even if you hate boxing. Be sure to see this film and enjoy the masterful performances from this amazing cast. It's a wicked piss-ah!
Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Not really a quote, but the scene between Christian Bale and Melissa Leo when they both sing a Bee Gees song.
Oscar Winners Best Supporting Actor - Christian Bale Best Supporting Actress - Melissa Leo Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Directing - David O. Russell Best Achievement in Editing Best Motion Picture Best Supporting Actress - Amy Adams Best Original Screenplay
TRON: Legacy (2010) Directed by Joseph Kosinski Length: 127 minutes Rated PG for sequences of sci-fi action violence and brief mild language
In 1982, Disney released TRON - a film that became a cult classic for its futuristic graphics and concepts. Though the film has been loved by geeks and fanboys alike for many years, the film largely remained a relatively unknown member of Disney's extensive vault. With the popularity of 3D films and the amazing capabilities of graphic designers and programs, the highly anticipated sequel has finally arrived to capture a new generation of TRON fanatics.
TRON: Legacy centers on Sam Flynn, played by Garrett Hedlund (Country Strong, On the Road), son of the original film's protagonist Kevin Flynn. After receiving a mysterious page from his father's old arcade, Sam discovers his father's secret lab that transports him to The Grid, a digital city where programs and users can interact and anything is possible. Though Sam's father shared tales of the majestic beauty of The Grid, Sam soon discovers his father identical clone Clu has assumed control and seeks to escape to the real world.
The film relies heavily on nostalgia and impressive graphics to make up for a lackluster and incredibly predictable plot. Hedlund does a serviceable job as the protagonist; though his character lacks any real depth, this good looking newcomer has a bright future ahead of him. Jeff Bridges (True Grit, Pablo) once again resumes his role as Sam's father Kevin Flynn, the creator of The Grid. Additionally, Bridges pulls double-duty as the tyrannical renegade program Clu a la a digitally rendered version of a younger Bridges. Bridges is one of the best actors in Hollywood today; however, it often felt as if his character was simply The Dude from The Big Lebowski with a glowing robe.
Beyond the main actors, the film boasts an impressive support cast, namely the beautiful Olivia Wilde (HouseM.D., Cowboys & Aliens) as Quorra and Michael Sheen (Alice in Wonderland, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Parts I & II) as Castor/Zeus. Quorra is Kevin Flynn's new protegee, equally deadly as she is sexy. My favorite character of the film is Sheen's Castor/Zeus, an eccentric night club owner known for his ability to procure things. Though Sheen is essentially the digital version of the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland, his zany hi-jinks and mannerisms provide several humorous moments.
Perhaps the most important aspect of TRON: Legacy is the graphics. Though the original may not hold up to the test of time, it is often cited as a film ahead of its time if not solely for its concepts. Needless to say, Disney spared no expense in creating the magnificent digital landscape of The Grid. From the towering sky scrapers, to fan-favorites like the light cycles, the graphics alone make the film worth seeing in the theater. Though the film uses a relatively muted color scheme throughout, the amount of detail and imagination required to develop the sprawling landscape of this film is breathtaking. While it is hard to tell how much the 3D experience assisted with the graphics, this is one film worth the extra few dollars, as opposed to the epic failure that was Clash of the Titans.
Additionally, what would a futuristic movie set in a digital world be without an impressive electronica soundtrack? Thankfully, Disney made a great call selecting the legendary and mysterious French electronica duo Daft Punk to develop the score of the film. While Daft Punk fans may lament the soundtrack as very un-Daft Punk like, for a movie soundtrack it is one of the years best. One could still argue both The Social Network and Inception boast more impressive compositions, but from a music lover's perspective, this has been one of Hollywood's best for film scores in several years. Additionally, be sure to note the cameo by the band during the night club scene as the pair DJ an impromptu battle.
Ultimately, several non-TRON fans may not appreciate the ingenuity found in this long awaited sequel as the story is a bit convoluted yet predictable and the action a bit hokie. There is no denying the impressiveness of this digital wonderland. Boasting incredible graphics, a killer soundtrack, and some fun action sequences, TRON: Legacy is a successful sequel that lives up to both fan and newcomer's expectations. Definitely be sure to check this out in the theater while you still can!
Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Kevin Flynn: "You're messing up my zen-thing...man."
Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Sound Editing
127 Hours (2010) Directed by Danny Boyle Length: 94 minutes Rated R for language and some disturbing violent content/bloody images
Okay, let's get this out of the way. The arm scene is pretty gruesome and difficult to watch. For those of you who happen to be living under a rock (insert tongue in cheek), 127 Hours is based on the true story of Aron Ralston, an adventurous outdoors enthusiast with a panache for escaping both people and society. In 2003, Ralston was canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah, when a large boulder fell and lodged Ralston's arm between a literal rock and a hard place, trapping him alone in the desert with little food and water. After several days attempting to move the boulder, Ralston was forced to take dramatic efforts in order to survive - breaking and severing his own arm with nothing more than a dull knife. Once free, Ralston found his way to safety and survived the dramatic event.
Portraying Ralston onscreen is heartthrob James Franco (Eat Pray Love, Your Highness). Delivering a performance that will surely net Franco the distinct honor of not only co-hosting the 2011 Academy Awards but also a Best Actor nomination, Franco perfectly captures the essence of a man attempting to maintain his sanity in the face of death while accepting the inevitable fate that awaits. Making a film that essentially stars one character can be a difficult prospect, but Franco nails the role perfectly. Several scenes involving Ralston and his camcorder cement the brilliance of this young actor, particularly a scene in which Ralston "hosts" a morning talk show featuring several different Ralstons reflecting on his predicament. In an almost "Gollum-like" fashion Franco portrays several different personalities/characters at one time before ending with a tear-jerker lament to Ralston's mother and father.
Director Danny Boyle has built a reputation as one of the most unique and stylized directors in Hollywood. No matter the genre or content, you can always tell when you are watching a Boyle film as he melds frantic camerawork with resplendent scenery. Boyle's beautiful camerawork illustrates the reasons Ralston desires to escape the troubles of family and society with shots of majestic mountains, sunlight running down a canyon, and clear blue skies. Additionally, few directors could handle the amputation, a graphic yet important scene, with the right balance of gore and tastefulness like Boyle does. Make no mistake, watching someone break and then sever their own arm is difficult, no matter how "strong" of a stomach you have. Several cases have reported people fainting or vomiting during the key scene.
While 127 Hours will not surpass films such as Inception or The Social Network for the distinction of best picture of 2010, Danny Boyle once again delivers. 127 Hours is a beautiful yet horrifying take on a triumphant true story. Combined with the best performance of James Franco's young career, do not be surprised to see 127 Hours represented in several Oscar categories this February. Be sure not to miss this amazing film; just don't forget to bring your doggy-bag if you get queasy!
Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Don't really have a quote, but I'll go with the lesson I learned from the movie. Never buy the cheap multi-tool. Always splurge on the high quality Swiss Army Knife.
Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Editing Best Original Score Best Original Song - "If I Rise" by A.R. Rahman, Dido, and Rollo Armstrong Best Motion Picture Best Actor in a Leading Role - James Franco Best Adapted Screenplay
Love and Other Drugs (2010) Directed by Edward Zwick Length: 112 minutes Rated R for strong sexual content, nudity, pervasive language, and some drug material
Beautiful actors in a torrid romantic comedy that does a nice job of mixing laughs, sentiment, tears, and sex? Sounds like a nice date movie (for the couples capable of handling LOTS of said sex and sultry scenes). The latest rom-com to hit the theaters stars hunky blue eyed Jake Gyllenhaal (Source Code, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time) as Jamie Randall, a smooth-talking pharmaceutical sales rep capable of wooing any woman. The girl who soon becomes the object of his affection? Maggie Murdock, played by the charming Anne Hathaway (One Day, Alice in Wonderland), a free-spirited artist who has been diagnosed with stage-one Parkinson's disease. Maggie tries to stay detached from others because of her disease, but romance ensues along with all the other traditional elements of the romantic comedy genre.
While the film doesn't really do anything new, it is a fun film overall. Hathaway is quickly challenging Kate Winslet for the actress most often seen naked. Nudity aside, the romantic scenes between the two actors feel quite intense and passionate. There are several moments where you'll wonder if the performance is really faked or a much deeper connection beyond the characters. Both Gyllenhaal and Hathaway perform their roles well and seem like a good onscreen pair.
The comedic elements found in Love and Other Drugs are quite humorous, although they rely heavily on one trick. Being a movie about a pharmaceutical rep that sales Viagra, you can imagine there are several dick jokes. While funny, after a while you know what's coming (no pun intended). If you needed a basis for comparison, the film is reminiscent of Jerry Maguire for its ability to mix comedy and romance with a modern flair. However, Love and Other Drugs fails to really nail the iconic "You complete me" moment. The big, romantic monologue that you know is coming falls a bit short of expectations.
Additionally, the film seems unsure of just what direction it wants to go. At times it seems destined for more grandiose themes like problems with the health care industry, pharmaceutical sales, or societal views on debilitating diseases. However, the film never really scratches beyond the surface. Minus this mishmash of too many ideas into one story, the film proves to be a fun experience for both guy and girl. With great eye candy, laugh-out-loud moments, and several steamy romance scenes, Love and Other Drugs is a great date night idea for those couples looking to compromise on a film.
Final Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote: Josh Randall: "Do you think dad is that big?"
