The Movies thread!

[95Crash]

That Mickey Ward movie sounds like it could be good. I'll definitely keep it in mind.

As for Bale's dedication to the craft, did anyone see him in Rescue Dawn? I thought that was a nice little movie by acclaimed German director Werner Herzog. About U.S. fighter pilot Dieter Dengler (Bale) who was shot down behind enemy lines during the Vietnam War and had to fight to survive. Check it out if you get a chance.

[HellOnICE]

King's Speech was excellent.

Some pals of mine saw The Fighter on Sunday - they were skeptical going in - going out they were raving.

True Grit was disappointing. Had all the makings except for the script part, which was fine - but ultimately too formulaic and didn't jump off the screen and engage.

Black Swan I'll check out this weekend, friends caught a screening, raved as well.

[95Crash]

Excellent, thank you! And thanks to Bulletpoof too for his suggestions.

I have the whole spaghetti western trilogy that ends with The Good, The Bad and The Ugly and they're all pretty awesome in their own ways. I also have a couple of the other Dirty Harry flicks on my queue, but the rest of this list is new to me. Good stuff!

I was thinking: I should probably take At Close Range off that list. Although it is an excellent movie, it's probably more of a drama than a manly-man movie. But it's still worth watching sometime. Both Penn and Walken give great performances. Penn's younger brother, who died not too long ago, is also in it. ... The other Penn movie, Bad Boys, is definitely of a guy flick.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

The Warrior’s Way – The only film being released wide this week is a mashup between Eastern kung-fu and a standard Western. Not much is really known about this movie, as it wasn’t released to critics for pre screening, but the premise sounds just b-movie enough to warrant at least a home viewing. I’m thinking a lot is going to hinge on how awesome the fight scenes are and if they hold up, this could be a good Saturday afternoon rental.

Opening This Week – Limited

I Love You Phillip Morris – This highly rated comedy stars Jim Carrey as an extravagant small town businessman who, after a life changing accident that gives him the courage to come out, becomes a con man, gets arrested meets the love of his life, Phillip Morris, played by Ewan McGregor. With some critics calling Carrey’s work in this movie as the apex of his career, especially during a year lacking in smart comedies, this is looking like a must see. Showing at the AMC Loews Village 7, AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 and Clearview Chelsea

Black Swan – The latest film from director Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler) is getting huge Oscar buzz from the festival circuit. The film stars Natalie Portman as a prima ballerina who wrestles with the pressure of the highly competitive world of dance, Vincent Cassel as the head of the company and Mila Kunis as her vindictive competitor. Blending the melodrama of the arts, seduction and an almost supernatural slant, I’ve been looking forward to this for quite some time now! Highly recommended! Screening at Regal Union Square Stadium 14, Clearview Chelsea and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas

Dead Awake – Creepy little ghost story starring Nick Stahl and Rose McGowan that examine life, death and the strange interconnections between the two. Watched the trailer and while I’m not quite sure about the story and the acting seemed suspect in some spots, this might me worth a viewing. No critical responses as of yet. Showing in limited screens in NY and NJ.

All Good Things – Inspired by a true story, this flick is the story of one of the most controversial missing person cases in New York history. Starring Ryan Gosling and Kirsten Dunst, this story of greed and love has been getting very mixed reviews, despite a reportedly great performance by the two leads. Unfortunately, the ambiguous story and a script full of clichés makes this a skip flick for me, despite an interesting trailer. Showing at the Angelika and City Cinemas Paris Theatre

Night Catches Us – Fictionalized urban drama about the Black Panther movement in the 1970’s and one man, played by Anthony Mackie (The Hurt Locker) who comes back to his hometown to find the movement has gone far past what he originally envisioned. Getting positive but mixed reviews from critics, most are praising the performance of Mackie and his love interest, played by Kerry Washington but say the screenplay and direction could have been better. Playing at Cinema Village 12th St and the AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Bhutto – Documentary chronicling the life and work of Benazir Bhutto, the first woman to lead a Muslim nation, in this case, Pakistan. Documenting everything from her rise to power to her family upbringing to her eventual assignation, Bhutto is getting rave reviews from critics. Screening at Cinema Village 12th Street

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale – Word of warning: This is NOT a holiday flick you want to take the kiddies to. Full of F-bombs and full frontal nudity, this Finnish import revolves around an archeological dig that unearths the real Santa Claus. But, rather than spreading good cheer, the Santa comes back to life and kids start disappearing. Sounding campy, silly and a bit funny, critics have been largely enjoying this different, creepy take on a holiday film. Screening at the IFC Center

My 3 To See

Black Swan – Already talked about this in a previous post, but if you need any reason to see this movie, check out the trailer posted earlier. Featuring great performances and a creepy story, this flick is getting the same kind of buzz The Wrestler got a couple of years ago. Check it out!

I Love You, Phillip Morris – Critics are calling Jim Carrey’s performance in this film the finest of his career and this mad cap yet intelligent comedy, so this really should be a must see.

The King’s Speech – Tossing this up for one more week, but Colin Firth is sure to get a nomination come January, so this is also a must see!

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[HellOnICE]

I've pretty much seen all the contenders this year...and it is my decision.

King's Speech should win best picture. Just unbelievable film.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader – Also playing in 3D – This third installment of the Christian themed fantasy adventure series finds series sailing the seven seas looking for bland vanilla adventure. Not as dark or moody as Harry Potter, and consequently not as good, this flick is getting very luke warm reviews. Critics have mostly agreed that the special effects are the highlight of the film but outside of that, the film suffers from odd pacing and an overall sheen of blandness. Add to that another disappointing 3D offering and Nardia may entertain fans of the book but that’s probably about it.

The Tourist – So what do you get when you mix an art house director with the star power of Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie? Beautifully shot boredom as evidenced in the Hollywood debut of director Florian Henckel-Donnersmarck (The Lives Of Others), The Tourist. Depp plays, what else, a tourist in Europe who gets ensnared with a strange yet seductive Jolie resulting in a “deadly game of cat and mouse”. The few critics who’ve chimed in on this flick have all given it a lackluster response, saying the biggest offense is that Depp and Jolie have absolutely no chemistry whatsoever. Bad news for a film basically about two people entwined in international intrigue. Definitely a skip film for me.

Opening This Week – Limited

The Fighter – Another film that is getting a fair amount of buzz going into Oscar season, The Fighter stars Mark Wahlberg as famed Irish boxer, Micky Ward and Christian Bale as his brother and trainer. The story revolves around the early days of Micky’s career and tracks his struggles with family, life in Boston and making it to the top. Critics have been largely positive about the film, with many saying both Wahlberg and Bale do fine jobs in their respective roles. While some of the more negative critics have said it’s too much of a Rocky / Raging Bull mashup to be original, a good underdog story is always hard to pass up. That, and having a director like David O. Russell at the helm (Three Kings, I Heart Huckabees) makes this a pretty easy recommendation. Showing at AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13

The Company Men – Starring Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones and Kevin Costner, The Company Men details the lives of three very different modern day workers and how they deal with the struggles of recession life. Response to the film has been solid if not overwhelming, with marks in acting, story and directing all trending towards the middle. To me, the trailer looked interesting enough but this is no Up In The Air, so I’m listing this as a see it for yourself. Showing at AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13

The Tempest – Modern re-imagination of the classic Shakespeare play, the Tempest stars Helen Mirren as the sorceress, Prospera. And yes, you read right, the film takes the turn of changing the gender of Prospero. Despite having the acting chops o Mirren behind the role, critics have said the result is a noisy, drubbed up mess, much different than director Julie Taymor’s Titus or even Across the Universe. Shame given the strength of the source material. Showing at the Angelika and City Cinemas Village East

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Hemingway's Garden of Eden – Film adaptation of the final Hemmingway novel, Garden of Eden is getting pretty poor reviews from everyone who’s seen it, so definitely avoid it! Screening at Quad Cinema

You Won't Miss Me – Arty film about a disillusioned twenty something who delves into the depths of binge drinking and alcoholism. Definitely listed as an art film, more people are annoyed by this type of film than enjoy it but if you’re an art hound, the Village Voice gave the film a positive review, so take that for what it’s worth. Playing at the Cinema Village 12th St

Saint Misbehavin’: The Wavy Gravy Movie – Well received documentary about the life and antics of Wavy Gravy, a revered symbol in the modern counter culture movement. Fans will love it and so will everybody else, according to critics. Screening at the IFC Center

Worth Waiting For

And Everything Is Going Fine – Director Steven Soderbergh directs this retrospective on the life of Spalding Gray. The film is made up of archival footage and transcriptions, giving the film a look of being told by Spalding though the eyes of Soderbergh. Fans should definitely give this a spin as the reviews have been great.

My 3 To See

The Fighter – While critics haven’t been overwhelmed by this Wahlberg / Bale vehicle, a strong story, good performances and the spirit of an underdog coming into his own makes this an easy recommendation.

The Kings Speech – Will be working on my review for this film right after I’m done with this write up, but suffice to say this is going to be a heavy Oscar favorite come February. Highly recommended and one of the finest films of the year.

Black Swan – Another flick that’s going to garner a fare share of Oscar looks, Darren Aronofsky’s latest movie has been seeing rave reviews by critics and fans alike.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[njskaguy33]

New Movie Review

The King’s Speech

Ah, yes. Prestige Season. The special time of year when the air turns crisper, the season turns jolly and the thoughts of film executives turn fondly to awards season. Blockbusters may bring in the bucks but awards bring in the margins and if a studio’s three million dollar pet project can get some Oscar buzz, it’s all profit for Mama Hollywood. Even better, now is the time when us film geeks get to see the good stuff, the stuff that allows us to wax poetic over pints about films nobody else in the bar will ever leave their homes to watch. While this can be seen as putting on airs of snobbery to the Transformers crowd, to us film lovers this is our time of year to gloat about our hobby and revel in the cream of the cinematic crop. And with a ballot leading seven Golden Globe nominations, The King’s Speech is definitely on the tip of film foodies’ lips this December, and for very good reason.

Providing a bare synopsis of this movie fails in two ways. One, it makes the film sound haughty and overly high-minded and two, it makes the thing sound unbearably boring. Allow me to demonstrate:

“The Kings Speech is the true story of the Duke of York, who, after the sudden abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII, has to deal with the political realities of a lifelong speech impediment. With the help of his wife and an unorthodox speech therapist, the newly crowned king must overcome this obstacle and make an important speech to a country on the brink of war”.

Christ, I put myself to sleep while typing that! I think the name Edward, all by itself, has the same effect on me as Ambien.

As you can see, nothing brings me down more than a standard biopic and thank the heavens, The King’s Speech is anything but. In fact, director Tom Hooper does an outstanding job of balancing historic accuracy, real human drama and an uncanny knack for humor in his latest film. While the movie is shot, at times, in a very standard biopic way, Hooper treats the film like a stage performance, giving the characters room to breathe, interact and co-exist. Also, it’s worth noting again how damn funny this film is without ever getting silly, saccharine or overly light. What results is a well balanced character study of a visionary doctor and a tortured monarch.

Like most films of this type, the setting and dressing would be nothing without some fine performances and this is where The Kings Speech shines brightest. Colin Firth plays the speech addled duke and does so with a conviction, honesty and integrity that is marvelous to watch. Unlike the disappointing A Single Man, Firth is unencumbered by high minded photography and is instead allowed to encompass the spirit of King George VI without the overly directed meddling of Firth’s last effort. Brimming with subtlety, humor and raw emotion, Firth’s performance just might win him the Best Actor Oscar he missed out on last year.

That being said, if the Academy glosses over Firth, then they better hand over the trophy to the man who plays the good doctor, Geoffrey Rush. In playing the politically irreverent doctor, Rush also does a great job in balancing humor, empathy and an unwavering knowledge in the human condition. Firth and Rush complement each other wonderfully and every minute they are on screen together is a joy to watch. Helena Bonham Carter also does a fine job as Firth’s patient wife and the underrated Guy Pearce is well cast as the bad boy King Edward VIII, rounding out one of the best casts of the year.

All told, The Kings Speech is on the short list for winning Best Picture this year and for very good reason. One of the trickiest things to achieve in any artistic endeavor is balance. Lean too much to one side of the emotional spectrum, be it too dramatic, too funny or too sappy and you lose a portion of the audience. What The King’s Speech achieves better than any Oscar season film I’ve seen this year is reach a point where literally anybody could watch this film and enjoy it. Hopefully the Oscar buzz surrounding this movie is enough to propel it to wide screening status as I truly feel anybody and everybody will find something to love from this movie. A sublimely made film in almost every aspect, The King’s Speech is one of the easiest film going recommendations I’ve made this year and is a slam dunk nominee for Best Picture. While I would have whistled a different tune after seeing 127 Hours a month before, the accessibility, charm and stunning acting all make this my current pick for film’s highest honor.

[CarpathianForest]

Long awaited trailer for Tree of Life has been released. I'm excited looks more like Malick of Thin Red Line than New World.

[njskaguy33]

Long awaited trailer for Tree of Life has been released. I'm excited looks more like Malick of Thin Red Line than New World.

CF, good looking trailer from a fine director. Wasn't a big fan of Thin Red Line when it came out, but I think I was 18 or so when I saw it, so I may need to give it another spin with older, more patient eyes.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Tron Legacy – Also playing in 3D and IMAX 3D – This weekend’s biggest opening is the modern reboot of the classic 80’s techno flick, Tron. I’d get into the story of Jeff Bridges as the architect of the interactive video game and his son played by Garrett Hedlund who stumbles upon the world but who really cares. Critics are echoing what we all thought when we saw the first trailer a year and half ago: crappy screenplay and beautiful visuals are the order of the day in the world of Tron and that’s pretty much about it. While I’m sure I’ll see this in IMAX 3D at some point, I won’t be braving the weekend lines to check this flick out. Besides, I still have a snot load of Christmas shopping to do! Oh, and one more thing, if this film fails in 3D, I am done with the medium! This should be awesome in the third dimension. If not, I’m officially done-sky.

How Do You Know – The latest rom-com from director James L. Brooks (As Good As It Gets, Spanglish) is the story of a love triangle between a professional softball player (Reese Witherspoon) a corporate executive (Paul Rudd) and a major league pitcher (Owen Wilson). Jack Nicholson also stars in this film although snot if I know in what capacity. Critics have been giving this rancid reviews pissing on everything from the acting to the disconnected dialogue. The most surprising negative, though, in the sloppy direction of James L. Brooks, most famous for the excellent As Good As It Gets. If this and his previous luke warm effort Spanglish are any indication, it may be time for Brooksie to hang ‘em up.

Yogi Bear – Also playing in 3D – Did anybody think this would be any good? Really? Featuring the vocal talents of Dan Aykroyd as Yogi and Justin Timberlake as Boo Boo, this mix of live action and animation looks too bad for words. Mix in some last minute 3D to add to the nausea, and you get a big ol’ crap sandwich. Critics have been expectedly dour about this film so keep the kids far, far away. How far away, you ask? You know the creepy guy in the neighborhood who goes all out of Halloween and has a big red dot over his house on a certain Internet map? Yeah. That far.

Opening This Week – Limited

Casino Jack – Jack Abramoff has quite a year in film so far. First was the documentary Casino Jack And The United States Of Money by the great Alex Gibney and now an actual comedy staring Kevin Spacey as the money hungry mogul. While I thought the previews showed some promise, critics have been a touch mixed on this one. While most agree Spacey is fun to watch, others question the directorial choices and the script. Still, for fans of Spacey and the Abramoff scandal, this could a fun watch in an indie cinema by you. Showing at the Angelika

Rabbit Hole – The latest film from director John Cameron Mitchell stars Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart as a grief stricken couple who, after the sudden death of their four year old son, learns to piece together their shattered lives. Dramatic and almost depressing, the film still manages to inject all of the small things in life in a film that critics is giving high praise to. While the subject matter may be a bit tough to swallow, critics are saying this is an intensely emotional film that is well worth seeing. Just expect an emotionally trying viewing experience. But hey, we’re in Oscar season, so this is to be expected! Playing at AMC Lowes Lincoln Square 13 and Landmark Sunshine

Movie Notes – The Fighter expands this weekend to a wide release, so check out this Golden Globe nominated flick at a theater near you.

My 3 To See

Rabbit Hole – While watching this film would be akin to running through an emotional spin cycle, good dramas are par for the course this season and this one looks to be a honest look into the process of dealing with grief

The King’s Speech – Still the best film in theaters right now, it’s defiantly worth seeing. ‘Nuff said!

Black Swan – See above except replace “first” with the word “second”.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[annabelle]

Totally notnew movies BUT....had a movie marathon bed party of one the other night..watched Boondoc Saints 1 &2..ughhh so good!

Also watched a movie called hard Core Logo...it's a kick ass rock movie...everyone should take the time and watch it...if you're into drugs and punk!!

[njskaguy33]

In preparation for a long holiday weekend, all movies listed are being released today, Wednesday, December 22nd, unless otherwise noted. Happy Holidays!

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Little Fockers – Oppph, do we have to start with this stinker? De Niro, Stiller and the rest of the focking crew return for one more cash grab, this time featuring little kids running around, creating mayhem. The story is what you expect as are the reviews, which have been absolutely putrid. One reviewer actually said, it will be a Christmas miracle if nobody kills themselves while watching Little Fockers. Wowzers. Needless to say, this was a skip the second I saw the movie poster and remains so as of right now.

True Grit – And now from an awful film, to a great one. The Coen Brothers’ latest film, a remake of the John Wayne classic, stars Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin and newcomer Hailee Steinfield star in this classic revenge tale. While critics are raving over the brother’s direction, script and the expected amazing performances by the starring cast, the real surprise has been the excellent work of Steinfield as the little girl who hires Bridges to murder her father’s killer. With many saying this is a star making performance for the young actress, True Grit has zoomed to the top of my list of flicks to see this winter. Expect a review soon!

Gulliver’s Travels – And back to the crap we go! Another film you look at and say, “Wow, this can’t be good”, this remake of the classic story stars Jack Black as the giant among the land of Lilliputians. Critics have been giving this film the spanking everyone expected by saying it’s overly Hollywood, overly corny and overly…well..Jack Black. Definitely a skip film for me. Note : This film opens on Christmas Day.

Opening This Week – Limited

Somewhere – The latest film by director Sophia Coppola stars Stephen Dorff as a hard living celebrity who suddenly finds himself caring for his eight year old daughter, played by Elle Fanning. Let’s face it, Coppola is a quiet, patient director and I personally love the way she directs a film. Quiet confidence is a tough balancing act and while some critics find Coppola pretentious and vapid, I find her films interesting and quietly engaging. Besides, do you really want to hear Dorff chew through more dialogue than necessary? Despite some critical derision, I’m saying see it. Playing at the Angelika and AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13

The Illusionist – French animated film about an aging magician who, after one little girl believes his tricks are actual magic, finds a newfound bond with the young girl. Visual stunning as evidenced in the very good trailer, critics have been largely positive of the film saying that it mixes French ennui with enough whimsy and genuine emotion to make it a true work of art. Loved the trailer and would like to see this at some point. Showing at the City Cinemas Paris Theatre and Landmark Sunshine. This film opens on Christmas Day.

Country Strong – Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw star in this dramatic tale of a fallen country star who has to face her demons while on her last chance comeback tour. Didn’t seem too interesting based on the few trailer I’ve seen and the few critics who have seen it largely agree. Going to label this is as skip for now but that may change as critical response increases. No New York area listings as of yet

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Hadewijch – Film about a young nun who, after getting kicked out of the convent for her over exuberant displays of faith, find herself back in Paris to deal with the real world and everybody in it. Getting fine reviews from art house critics everywhere, this movie should be mandatory viewing fro fans of foreign art house films. Showing at the IFC Center. This film opens Christmas Eve.

Movie Notes – Black Swan expands to a wide release starting today, so check out this Oscar favorite in a theater near you!

My 3 To See

True Grit – Great reviews, fantastic directors and a star making performance all make this a guaranteed must see this season.

Somewhere – Critics be damned, I like the way Sophia Coppola makes a movie, so for that reason alone, I say check our her newest film.

Black Swan – I know, I know but I’m only adding it because it’s getting released wide this weekend. I’ll be seeing this on the 26th, so expect a review, hopefully before the New Year.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[njskaguy33]

In preparation for yet another long holiday weekend, all movies listed were released yesterday, Wednesday, December 29th, unless otherwise noted. Also, due to the multiplexes being crammed with flicks, there are no new films being expanded or debuted in wide release this week. Happy New Year!

Opening This Week – Limited

Blue Valentine – Another big Oscar darling, this film has been shrouded in controversy since its first screening at Cannes. Originally slapped with an NC-17 rating for a particularly steamy scene between stars Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams, public outcry has lead to the studios repealing that decision, giving it the stared R Rating. Good thing too, as I’ve been looking forward to this for a while and would hate to see it at “Steve’s Adult Emporium” or something like that. The movie itself tracks a couple through the ups and down of a relationship by jumping back and forth between time lines in what looks to be the short list of a number of Oscars. Definitely worth seeking out if you like good drama. Showing at the Angelika and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas

Another Year – The latest film from indie director Mike Leigh (Vera Drake, All Or Nothing) centers around a blissfully happy elderly couple who, in the course of one year, become surrounded by unhappy people. Getting very good reviews from critics, most are praising the patient and slow pace of the film, a pace that wraps around ordinary situations in a very extraordinary way. While fans of Leigh will find lots to love in this flick, the casual moviegoer may find it just too damn slow. Still, I’m going label this as a See It. Also showing at the Angelika and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas

Biutiful – The latest film from director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (Babel, 21 Grams) stars Javier Bardem as a father who attempts to reconcile his illegal life in the Barcelona underground and the love for his children. Critics have been very mixed about this flick, with some saying it’s glacial pace, overblown running time and ridiculous story overshadow any good work put it in by Mr. Bardem. Still, these are the same critics who didn’t like Babel, a flick I thought was flawed but quite good. Despite the negativity, I’ll still see it at some point and say you should See It For Yourself. Showing at Landmark Sunshine.

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

The Red Chapel – Documentary featuring two comics who go to North Korea under the guise of doing a vaudeville act when their real purpose is to unmask the absurdities that is North Korean policy. Getting mixed reviews from critics, this movie may appeal to some but for me, is not worth running out to see. Screening at the IFC Center

The Strange Case of Angelica – Magical sounding movie about a young photographer who falls in love with the woman of his dreams. Problem is, she’s dead and only comes to life when he trains his camera on her lifeless body. Getting rave reviews from the few critics who’ve seen it, Angelica looks to be an art house fan’s dream come true. Also showing at the IFC Center

Opening This Week – Worth Waiting For

The Way Back – While this movie doesn’t have a New York release date just yet, critics who have seen are giving it a resounding thumbs up. Starring Jim Sturgess, Colin Farrell and Ed Harris, this film is true story of a group of soldiers who escape a Siberian gulag in 1940. Directed by Peter Weir (Master and Commander, The Truman Show), this film is being hailed by critics as a fine example of what independent film can do when a grand vision gets unhinged from the studio machine. Certainly worth checking out once it gets to our coast.

My 3 To See

True Grit – Once again tossing this on the list as it’s the only movie in wide release that’s worth seeing, if you haven’t seen Black Swan and The Fighter.

Blue Valentine – Been looking forward to this for a long time and with great performances, fine direction and a stunning story, Valentine seems primed to make an awards season run.

Another Year – Slow, plodding and simple, Another Year may not be everybody but critics largely agree the nuance and pacing are a film buffs dream.

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

[Devils Dose]

I just saw Black Swan today. It was one of the most awesome movie-going experiences that I've ever had. I was breathing heavily when it finally ended.

[njskaguy33]

New Movie Review

Black Swan

“Filmmaking at its core is a visual medium. Books can tell you what a character is thinking but film has to show you. As a result, the greatest films ever made all share one property: you should be able to turn off the sound and still get the jist of the movie” – My Literature in Film professor, Fall 2003

Black Swan, the latest film by director Darren Aronofsky, is a prime example of that mantra. Combining stunning cinematography, fine acting and a classic story of drive, artistic devotion and personal transformation, Black Swan is one of the most visually intense films to come out this season.

Featuring the talents of an emaciated Natalie Portman as the prima ballerina, Mila Kunis as her mind tripping competitor and Vincent Cassel as the production’s director, Black Swan is well cast from top to bottom. Portman in particular shines and will most likely gardener an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the technically perfect but dispassionate young star. While Portman starts slow via seemingly mundane interactions with her mother, she hits her stride once tasked with the job of dancing both the innocent White Swan and the sensual Black Swan. Portman is near brilliant in the way she plays an artist letting go and continues to build in strength all the way to the films spellbinding conclusion. As for the other principals, Kunis and Cassel do a fine job in their respective roles, but it’s Portman who’s going to get all the praise come February.

That being said, one can not talk about an Aronofsky film without bringing up cinematography which is damn near Oscar winning in Black Swan. The film is a visual masterpiece, breathtaking from the first frame and sweeping in emotional scale. The movie can be best described as a moving tapestry and much like a painter conveys emotion through brushstrokes, Aronofsky, along with cinematographer and long time collaborator Matthew Libatique, does the same with the camera. The special effects are also noteworthy in how seamlessly they are integrated with the story, allowing the audience to experience Portman’s slow descent first hand.

Playing much like an Aesop fable where the focus is the moral, Black Swan is one big metaphor from beginning to end. If you are familiar with the story of Swan Lake, you’ll know exactly how things are to play out in Black Swan. Unfortunately, in an effort to make sure everything in the film connects to their appropriate themes, character development goes by the boards. While nicely acted, the characters don’t have much behind the gaunt faces and sweeping dances, making them difficult to connect with. During one particularly intense scene between Portman and her mother, I found myself simply not caring about Portman or her borderline abusive situation. Not a knock against the actors involved, mind you, just a by product of a focus on the connecting the story points in lieu of strong character development.

Despite some weak characters, Aronofsky has hit another home run with Black Swan. Intensely gripping, especially as it speeds towards a breath taking conclusion, the film is visual storytelling at its finest. In fact, the film’s final half hour is some of the best filmmaking I’ve seen all year. While I doubt it’s going to make a splash at the Oscars, I could definitely see a few Golden Globes coming down the pike for Portman and company. You know, writing this review made me think about something. Maybe my film professor from eight years ago taught at NYU at some point and in his class was a plucky young filmmaker with dreams of making that “one great flim”. And maybe my old teacher said the same line about the classics remaining classics even when the sound is muted. If so, Aronofsky was a great student, making my professor proud and in the process, making a near classic.

[njskaguy33]

Opening This Week – Nationwide

Season of the Witch – Oopff. Another one of those flicks that just can’t be good based on trailers alone, Nicolas Cage’s latest epic adventure tale is getting horrific reviews from critics. Sporting an even more ridiculous wig than he had in the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Cage plays a heroic Crusader who has to help transport a supposed witch to a far off monastery. Then something about a powerful force and some supernatural mumbo jumbo follow and it all fall apart into predictable action adventure dreck. Looking to be sloppy as three day old January snow fall, this could be easiest skip recommendation since The Last Airbender.

Opening This Week – Limited

No One Killed Jessica – Indian film about a young model who, after being hired as a celebrity bartender for a private party, is shot to death, in full view of the party goers. The culprit is the son of a high ranking government official and it’s up to Jessica’s sister and a feisty reporter to bring the killer to justice before the government sweeps everything under the rug. No review just yet but it has an interesting premise, if nothing else. Showing at the AMC Lowes Newport Centre 11, The Imaginasian, AMC Empire 25 and Columbia Park Stadium 12

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

The Time That Remains – Well reviewed film that focuses on the classic struggle between the Jews and Arabs living in Palestine, told from the point of view of the director’s family and their experiences in the struggle over the last 60 years. Getting rave reviews for its honesty and remarkable humor, this is an easy must see for fans of historical biographies. Showing at the IFC Center

If I Want To Whistle, I Whistle – Romanian film about a young prison detainee who, just two weeks before his release falls in love with a social worker whom he has no chance of ever meeting on the outside. Getting mixed review from critics, so I say see a trailer two before heading downtown. Screening at the Film Forum

Phil Ochs: There but for Fortune – Documentary about the controversial protest singer that links up his work to the times he lived in. This movie is receiving fine reviews so doc fans and fans of Och’s music should check it out. Also showing at the IFC Center

Movie Notes

Just in case you cared, Country Strong, the boot scooting story of an alcoholic country singer on her last chance come back tour, expands to a wide release this weekend. Yee HAH!

My 3 To See

Blue Valentine – Outside of my number two pick, there isn’t much coming out this weekend, so be sure to check out this romantic drama before the Oscars roll in.

The Time That Remains – The best reviewed film this weekend gets my easy vote for this weeks second Three To See

True Grit – Added for all the same reasons Blue Valentine was added. Man, January is a rough film month!

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

Edited January 7, 2011 by Bulletproof

[Devils731]

1 out of 52 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes was positive for Season of the Witch....the positive reviewer basically said if you were drunk you might buy a ticket to the movie.

[njskaguy33]

1 out of 52 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes was positive for Season of the Witch....the positive reviewer basically said if you were drunk you might buy a ticket to the movie.

Yeaaah, it's getting scathing reviews but like I said, it's one of those movies that just can't be good. January is typically a slow month for new releases as all the Oscar buzz movies that were released in limited in November, see a wide release in late December / January. Theaters are full of already released films and the studios use this time to dump their "already invested in junk" before the spring / summer season rolls around again. Good month to catch up on all the awards season favorites and docs released early in the season, now on DVD.

[njskaguy33]

Old School Classic Review

White Heat (1949)

Way back when in the late 1940’s, James Cagney’s star had fallen a bit. Fresh from his second departure from Warner brothers, Cagney spent most of the 1940’s trying to reshape his tough guy image by making movies his way. After starting an independent production company in 1943, Cagney Productions went on to produce a number of decent films including the well received 13 Rue Madeline. Despite the success of that movie, the company had seen some commercial failures as well, topping off with the historic flop, The Time of Your Life. Audiences rejected the notion that Cagney could be something more than a tough guy and the movie almost bankrupted the fledgling company. Then, in 1949, Cagney Productions, feeling financial and legal pressure from a number of fronts, begrudgingly merged with their old studio. Their first movie together? A little gangster flick masterpiece called White Heat.

Cagney plays gangster Cody Jarret, a train robbing, trigger happy mama’s boy who after going on the lamb for a train robbery, concocts a number of clever schemes to get away clean. While it’s ironic that right after his biggest flop Cagney went back to the role he knew best, it turned out to be the right move. One of the finest performances of his career, Cagney tows the line between trust, devotion to his mother and complete madness with absolute perfection. The real beauty of his performance is how Cagney plays the part completely unsympathetically, yet we all find ourselves secretly rooting for him to get away with the caper. The “mess hall” scene is particularly wonderful. While it’s easy to dismiss watching it with twenty-first century eyes, Cagney’s reactions and explosiveness holds up over sixty years later.

The rest of the cast is downright perfect, featuring John Archer as the treasury man after Cagney, Edmond O’Brien as an undercover cop and the lovely Virginia Mayo as Cagney’s love interest and accomplice. However, the scene stealer of the film has to be the fantastic Margaret Wycherly as Cagney’s doting mother. Every actress who has ever played either an over protective matriarch or an elderly head of a crime family owes a tribute to Wycherly’s performance. Cold, calculating and quietly manipulating, Wycherly shows that while Cagney is the boss of the gang, she’s the soul. The film is also wonderfully directed, well shot and cleverly written, making it a masterpiece of the film noir genre. One of the forgotten classics of American cinema, especially with modern filmgoers, White Heat stands the test of time as a landmark film. Cagney may not have been at his height when filming began but when all was said and done, this movie put him “on top of the world” once again.

[Atterr]

Old School Classic Review

White Heat (1949)

Great review of one of my all time favorite movies, Bulletproof!

Saw 127 Hours yesterday and was very impressed by it. Great job by Danny Boyle to keep audience interested in what could have easily been a very boring movie considering it features one actor and one location for most of the movie. It's good to see James Franco finally get a leading role (after his fantastic turn in Pineapple Express) and he does not disappoint. I was actually quite surprised how fun the movie was, considering the subject and unavoidable ending. Maybe not a masterpiece, but definitely better than the somewhat overrated Slumdog Millionaire.

[njskaguy33]

Great review of one of my all time favorite movies, Bulletproof!

Saw 127 Hours yesterday and was very impressed by it. Great job by Danny Boyle to keep audience interested in what could have easily been a very boring movie considering it features one actor and one location for most of the movie. It's good to see James Franco finally get a leading role (after his fantastic turn in Pineapple Express) and he does not disappoint. I was actually quite surprised how fun the movie was, considering the subject and unavoidable ending. Maybe not a masterpiece, but definitely better than the somewhat overrated Slumdog Millionaire.

Agreed, this is definately better than Slumdog. While I fell in love with Slumdog when I first saw it in theatres, repeat viewings show many of its flaws in storytelling and its overly simplictic plot. Still, its almost like a parable where the point isn't the end result of the story but the feeling you get when the credits roll. Still, Slumdog is a slightly overrated movie and 127 Hours is a better in almost every way. Wont win much at the Oscars but the nominations wont be too shabby, either.

Opening This Week – Nationwide

The Green Hornet – Also showing in 3D and IMAX 3D – Funny how a movie can get such a terrible rap before it’s even seen by critics but with the development hell this picture’s undergone, it’s no wonder. With the original rights being secured in 1997, The Green Hornet has gone through at least seven lead actors, three different directors and two studios before landing on Seth Rogan writing and starring, Jay Chou playing Kato and Michel Gondry in the director’s chair. Odd tidbit : Gondry was slated to be the original director of the film in 1997 and had gotten as far as casting and pre production before the studio shelved the project in 2000. Critics have had mixed reviews, surprisingly, none of them scathingly terrible. Most of the impression is that it’s a decent enough buddy action film that has almost none of Gondry’s trademark inventiveness and panache. Considering Gondry was a last minute addition after director number three walked off the project, that all makes sense. Some have said that Chou is likeable enough as Kato but the consensus is that this is a film that has no reason to exist, but since it does, it’s not a miserable mid January offering.

The Dilemma – Buddy rom-com starring Vince Vaughn and Kevin James as best friends to the end. But when Vaughn sees James’s wife, played by Winona Ryder, with another man he has a…wait for it…dilemma! To tell or not to tell. That is that question being posed by director Ron Howard in his latest film. The general concensus, from limited reviews, is that the film doesn’t know whether it’s a funny bro-mance style comedy or a darker look into dysfunctional relationships. While this may have some redeeming qualities, too many good critics have given it a thumbs down, so I say skip it.

Opening This Week – Limited

Barney’s Version – Already getting a couple of Golden Globe nominations for star Paul Giamatti, Barney’s Version is the story of Barney Panofsky, a hard living television producer who reflects on his life in his twilight years. Also starring Dustin Hoffman as his cantankerous father, Barney’s Version has been fine reviews, mostly directed towards Giamatti’s great performance. Showing at Regal Union Square 14 and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas

The Heart Specialist – Film starring Wood Harris, Brian J White and Zoe Saldana of all people about a med student who comes to his internship not to learn medicine but to reconnect with a lost love. No reviews and no opinions but this seems a touch lame, but I’m going to call no decision on this one. Playing in select theatres in NJ and NY

Ong Bak 3 – The third film in the marital arts trilogy, Ong Bak 3 sees actor / director Tony Jaa reprise his role from the first two films. This one promises to delve a bit more into the supernatural as well as be the final film in the series, so fans want to miss it. Everybody else can probably steer clear. Showing at City Cinemas Village East

Opening This Week – Indie, Art House and Small Screenings

Every Day – Lev Schreiber leads off a very respectable cast in this film about an ordinary family facing life’s challenges as one. Sounds a bit thin and critics have had similar feelings, brining limited but mixed reviews. Written and directed by Richard Levine, one of the minds behind TV’s Nip/Tuck, one critic said the film leans on many of the contrivances television does. Still, a good cast can sometimes see you through, I say give it a shot. Screening at City Cinemas Beekman Theatre

A Somewhat Gentle Man – Swedish character study about a stoic gangster who treats mailing a letter with same gusto as he does killing a snitch. Not much is known about this but the few critics who have commented tow the line from slow and boring to strangely mesmerizing. Screening at the IFC Center

I’m Dangerous With Love – Documentary about a drug user who is addicted to a substance that is commonly used in African tribal ceremonies. When his addiction reaches a head, he travels to Africa to find out if his head trips are rally spiritual enlightenment. Sounds fairly interesting and a few critics have agreed. Also screening at the IFC Center

Petition – An over ten year chronicle of the social, political and economic upheaval in modern day China and its effect on the citizens who live there. Getting fine yet limited reviews. Showing at the Anthology Film Archives

Opening This Week – Worth Waiting For

Plastic Planet – Documentary about the most abundant material on the planet: plastic! Discusses the origins as well as the social and environmental impact of the widely used substance.

My 3 To See

Barney’s Version – A great cast, electric story and a decent amount of awards season buzz makes this a easy recommendation

Somewhere – Put this on the list a few weeks ago, but trotting it out again for awards season.

Blue Valentine – One more recommendation for this critically acclaimed film

Confused by the colors? Here’s the guide!

Green means that reviews are great, the trailer looks great, so this is definitely worth seeing!

Orange means reviews have been mixed but there’s enough here for me to say, “See It For Yourself”.

Red means this film should be avoided at all costs! Run, Devil fans, run!!

Edited January 13, 2011 by Bulletproof

[DaneykoIsGod]

Just finished watching Citizen Kane for the first time.

It's crazy seeing a film so old. So much about movie-making techniques, dialogue, acting, etc. have changed, but a good story will transcend those obstacles and still reach an audience. There were a lot of great themes in Kane. Greed, love, power, emptiness. There were also some social messages that, despite the changes in the decades that have passed, seemed so current, like the way Kane treated the news (I wonder if Rupert Murdoch enjoys this film).

Of course, the datedness of the film lends itself to some unintentional humor as well. Like the scene where Kane tears apart his wife's bedroom. Welles looks like he's doing a really, really bad Boris Karloff impression.

Who else has seen it?

[Atterr]

Just finished watching Citizen Kane for the first time.

It's crazy seeing a film so old. So much about movie-making techniques, dialogue, acting, etc. have changed, but a good story will transcend those obstacles and still reach an audience. There were a lot of great themes in Kane. Greed, love, power, emptiness. There were also some social messages that, despite the changes in the decades that have passed, seemed so current, like the way Kane treated the news (I wonder if Rupert Murdoch enjoys this film).

Of course, the datedness of the film lends itself to some unintentional humor as well. Like the scene where Kane tears apart his wife's bedroom. Welles looks like he's doing a really, really bad Boris Karloff impression.

Who else has seen it?

I absolutely love Citizen Kane. Despite being a movie from the 40s, I don't think it has aged one bit. Yes, the themes are still current, but Orson Welles really was a pioneer when it comes to move making. It has so many incredible and iconic images. It starts from the first minute with the view of Xanadu mansion where the window always stays in the same spot, and never stops after that. It really is refreshing to watch this movie in a time where 80% of the movies are shot in an ADHD music video style.

Saw The Way Back yesterday. A movie about a couple of guys trying to escape a Siberian prison during WWII by walking through the deserts in Mongolia and the Himalaya towards India. In scope, it should have been Peter Weir's Lawrence of Arabia, but unfortuantely the characters are not fleshed out at all, so that there is no emotional connection with them at all. Too bad, it could have been great. Instead, it's just ok.

[njskaguy33]

I absolutely love Citizen Kane. Despite being a movie from the 40s, I don't think it has aged one bit. Yes, the themes are still current, but Orson Welles really was a pioneer when it comes to move making. It has so many incredible and iconic images. It starts from the first minute with the view of Xanadu mansion where the window always stays in the same spot, and never stops after that. It really is refreshing to watch this movie in a time where 80% of the movies are shot in an ADHD music video style.

Saw The Way Back yesterday. A movie about a couple of guys trying to escape a Siberian prison during WWII by walking through the deserts in Mongolia and the Himalaya towards India. In scope, it should have been Peter Weir's Lawrence of Arabia, but unfortuantely the characters are not fleshed out at all, so that there is no emotional connection with them at all. Too bad, it could have been great. Instead, it's just ok.

It's funny, I agree with the both of you! Citizen Kane is an absolute classic but it does play very dated, like many of the films from that era. Like Atterr said, with the window in the opening sequence and other moments, the cinematography alone is breathtaking. But I do have to agree with DiG, the movie does play really long and there are some moments where your modern film watching mind takes over and goes, "Uggh, get on with it", but it's still a piece of brilliance. Need to watch that one again as its been ages.

As for The Way Back, I like Peter Weir as a director and it's unfortunate to hear the characters don't hold up. From what I've read, the movie is filmed beautifully and is amazing what he was able to accompish with very little studio backing. How was Colin Farrell? He's always been hit or miss with me but In Bruges cemented me as a fan of his, so I'm curious how he pulled off the role.

Edited January 14, 2011 by Bulletproof

[Atterr]

As for The Way Back, I like Peter Weir as a director and it's unfortunate to hear the characters don't hold up. From what I've read, the movie is filmed beautifully and is amazing what he was able to accompish with very little studio backing. How was Colin Farrell? He's always been hit or miss with me but In Bruges cemented me as a fan of his, so I'm curious how he pulled off the role.

Colin Farrell does a decent job but his character is just pointless and... well, just see for yourself.

Finally saw Scott Pilgrim vs. The World yesterday and although it is all style over substance, I really enjoyed it. Loved the arcade/manga look of the film and the colourful supporting characters enough to forgive the movie's very simple storyline and somewhat miscast main couple Michael Cera and Mary Elizabeth Winstead.