Momoko is fascinated by the Rococo period. This young village girl lives for lace, embroidery and parasols and longs for the Hedonism of 18th Century France. Enter biker chick Ichigo, an independent girl of questionable history. The two girls strike an unlikely friendship. As the teen girls struggle with their own identities, their friendship falters. Fiercely protective of their prospective worlds, they begin to wonder can they coexist?
Based on a Japanese novel, the American translated Kamikaze Girls is a brightly-colored, slightly surreal tale blends anime and live action to create a fresh coming of age story. It's like Hello Kitty got angry.
The production is thoroughly modern. The female leads are engaging--one with her penchant for Lolita fashion, the other for her moped. The film balances the fairy tale elements beautifully with Gwen Stefani truths. Additionally, the dialogue is remarkable truthful, humorous, and surprisingly unobtrusively subtitled.
As I see it, Kamikaze Girls is a rare treat. I'm saddened to think only a handful of people might see it.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Shimotsuma monogatari (2005)
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Labyrinth (1986)
After wishing her baby brother, Toby, away and into the hands of the Goblin King (David Bowie) young Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) must make her way through the giant labyrinth in order to save him. With the help of Hoggle, Luto and an odd lot of creatures, Sarah makes her way to the castle to face down the king, managing to learn some important lessons along the way.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Bonus Feature: Book
"What would you do if you knew you could not fail?" Those words bid me adieu each morning. Much like an athlete with his pregame rituals, those words and that plaque are essential to my routine. But I'm afraid that I have become desensitized to those daring words as I have become complacent in reaching for the goals set before me. Admittedly, I have been 'phoning in' my performance for sometime now. It's easy to be disheartened when seemingly surrounded by those who are content with 'just enough'. Then I go and read a book like this...
The Sharper Your Knife, The Less You Cry by Kathleen Flinn is, I suppose, a memoir, technically. But for someone like me, the book serves as a breath of fresh air or better yet, a smack in the face. The book's subtitle: Love, Laughter, and Tear in Paris at the World's Most Famous Cooking School is misleading. The author shares her ups and downs in Paris as she takes the step of faith to follow her dreams.
This middle manager turned culinary student is the result of job loss and opportunity taken. Cashing in her 401k, moving to Paris, and going for it leads to a journey of self discovery and mettle. The author succeeds by her own merit and by never letting up even at the worst.
As she works her way through the three tiered course as Le Cordon Bleu (no it has NOTHING to do with the chicken dish), Flinn is tenacious in her desire and simple in her recollections. The book is filled not only with recipes and awesome French words {not of the four letter kind} but shares unforgettable morsels of wisdom applicable to every walk of life, not just culinary school.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Mutant Chronicles (2008)
With Earth divided into four warring corporations, a mutated breed of killer is released. As the apocalypse nears, Brother Samuel (Ron Perlman) as his brother, Constantine's (John Malkovich) request, he recruits a rogue army that will help realize the prophesied Deliverer. The cursed bunch of misfits includes Mitch Hunter (Thomas Jane) and ruthless killer Cpl. Valerie Duval (Devon Aoki). As the patrol descends into the Machine, Hunter's doubts ring true.
Mutant Chronicles is an effective sci-fi adventure loaded with clichés and underdeveloped characters. The debut work of director Simon Hunter, Mutant Chronicles is equal parts The Decent, Sin City, and God of War with a dash of Lord of the Rings for good measure. Visually arresting with a muted color palette, the film is a display of gratuitous violence, fright, and 5th grade philosophy.
The cast gives credence to this 'B' movie. Thomas Jane aces his role as a n'er-do-well with equal parts bravado and disgust. Malkovich graces the screen, sorely underused. Perlman is more than sufficient as Brother Samuel.
As I see it, Mutant Chronicles is chock-full of movie goodness. It's an fun, semi-brainless escape from the most recent fare.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
District 9 (2009)
Newly promoted Wikus Van De Merwe (Sharlto Copley) of the global corporation known as Multi National United forces is now overseeing the relocation of an alien race. These 'prawns' have been relegated to the slums of District 9 for decades after their mother ship stalled over Johannesburg, South Africa. With tensions high, Wikus steps in to move these creatures from squalor to containment and runs into resistance.
District 9 is a late stand out in a summer of sameness. This low budget indie piece produced by Peter Jackson is everything you've heard and then some. The film is unique in its execution and memorable thanks to top-notch production elements.
Directed by Neil Blomkamp and casted with virtual no-names, District 9 begins as a documentary to set up the story. We meet Wilkus, a nerdy pencil pusher for MNU. Sharlto Copley is pitch perfect as an 'Everyman' just trying to deal with events has they come. Copley evolves Wilkus from flighty office worker to insurgent leader subtly. It's beautiful to behold.
At the helm of the seamless CGI prawns is Jackson's WETA workshop. I have no complaints. The bipedal, nearly humanoid creatures are familiar yet strange and while the case could be made for an 'uninspiring' creature, it's ultimately what writer/director Blomkamp executes that makes them fascinating.
Not to be overlooked is the editing. Virtually seamless, the film evolves from docu-drama to real time events without a hitch. District 9 moves quickly, but without sacrificing story. The overall production is gritty and action packed; but Blomkamp balances the explosions with a sobering exploration of the emotions on both sides of the District. It feels neither contrived or hurried.
With a number of available subplots, kudos to Blomkamp for maintaining the film's focus. It truly could have gone a number of ways. The film does contain moments of weakness, but an innovative approach is among District 9's saving graces. My greatest fear now is that Hollywood will find a sequel a necessity. Please, no.
As I see it, District 9 is intelligent and entertaining sci-fi. It's also a must see on the big screen.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Pin Up Girl (1944)
Pinup girl Lorry Jones (Betty Grable) has given her heart and an autographed picture to nearly every serviceman. But when official service calls her to Washington to take dictation and she meets Navy hero Tommy Dooley (John Harvey), Lorry's heart has finally met her match.
It's hard to fairly judge movies of this era as it seems the war had permeated everything. When kept in perspective, Pin Up Girl is a patriotic confection of pure 1940s escapism. There is an undeniable silliness about the whole picture, but it's fun all the same.
Betty Grable sings, dances, and charms her way through a series of musical numbers that are downright garish by today's standards. At the time Techincolor was the coolest thing since white bread and Pin Up Girl makes the most of it. Grable is joined by Martha Raye, Nat King Cole, a really cool orchestra and some tap-dancing fiends. A swell time is had by all!
As I see it, Pin Up Girl is hardly a must-see, but it's could see--if nothing but for the history lesson.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Okie Noodling (2001)
It was just by chance that I caught this documentary on my local PBS station. It was by sheer fascination that I actually watched it.
Noodling--a type of fishing that requires a participant to use his/her hand to blindly feel along river banks and beds in hope that some prehistoric sized catfish will bite you--is quite a sight! The oddly endearing doc exposes a cultural phenomenon in the Midwest. It's actually banned in most states, but here, it is celebrated.
What I found most fascinating where the people. There was a genuine passion for this unusual event; the interviewees were consumed by the thrill of grappling in murky water will God knows what. One gentlemen even states his priorities as family, farming, and noodling--in that order.
Okie Noodling highlights Oklahoma with it's noodling tournament and the generations of men that have engaged in the 'sport'.
As I see it, Okie Noodling is an authentic piece of Americana perfectly preserved for posterity. It's an unforgettable eccentric tale that celebrates the passion of a people.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)
An evening of cocktails between couples becomes a forum for hateful games and spiteful fun in this classic drama. History professor George (Richard Burton) and his charming wife Martha (Elizabeth Taylor) engage in an unrelenting discourse of stinging barbs and ugly secrets while newly wed guests Nick (George Segal) and Honey (Sandy Dennis) look on in horror. As the alcohol content increase, so does the ugliness. Before long both couple are spiraling into a hangover riddled morning.
What a film! Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is an oft-heralded classic and after tonight's viewing, it's easy to see why. It's an uncomfortable drama to watch as George and Martha spar unmercifully, constantly trying to top one another. The emotions weigh heavy and with the one, two of Burton and Taylor... the film is powerful.
The chemistry between these former lovers is brilliant. Elizabeth Taylor is venomous, but beautiful. Set in B&W, she pops onscreen with class. But in this role, she's borderline insane. Richard Burton is perfect foil. Burton plays the bespectacled George as quiet, but calculating and perfectly undercutting. These two are cold-hearted. Underneath it all, you sense a perverted joy from the couple.
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is essentially a two hour diatribe between Burton and Taylor. It's a two hour, emotionally-wrenching diatribe. The setting is simple--a quaint home on the university campus, a car, parking lot (in a scene that contains some of the film's greatest dialogue), and small bar. Director Mike Nichols (The Graduate) had great foresight to just stand back and let the actors fly. The screenplay is certainly weighty, but it's the casting that really makes this film. Can't believe this is the same guy behind Closer. {Ugh!}
As I see it, the film is deserving of it's praise. However, I wonder if the nuances would be lost on modern cinema. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is an unforgettable character driven drama thanks to fine performances by Burton and Taylor.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Titans Vs Bucs (2009)
Yet another opportunity to watch the Titans from the promenade. Nice. The preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was fun. I'll admit, thanks to great company, my attention wasn't on the game. Much.
With a moment of silence for Steve McNair {which I found overly cliched thanks to Green Day's Time of Your Life (Good Riddance)}, the game got off to a slow start. QB Kerry Collins had a few issues and youngster Vince Young was convincing, but it was the rookie receivers that shown. Javon Ringer and Ryan Mouton ran for touchdowns in the second half.
Final Score: 27-20. Titans Win! All it all, it was an entertaining game.
Overheard on the Promenade:
- That's what she said.
- The grass is always greener on the HDTV.
- Stylez White?! Is that a real name?!
- Kenny Britt? Yes, please.
- I'm not going on that elevator by myself.
- In the event of an emergency, we're screwed!
- Getting hot and sweaty with a bunch of women--can't imagine a better evening.
Friday, August 14, 2009
The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)
The three Musketeers: Aramis (Jeremy Irons), Athos (John Malkovich) and Porthos (Gerard Depardieu) have moved on. D'Artagnan (Gabriel Byrne) remains in the employe of tyrannical King Louis (Leonard DiCaprio) with much chagrin. The young king wields his power for his own good and vices--not for his kingdom. After the death of Athos' son at the hands of the jealous king, the Musketeers reunite to usurp the king and replace him with his benevolent twin brother.
The Man in the Iron Mask is not a true rendering of Alexander Dumas' novel, however, it is great fun. The period film is lavish with costuming and other detail, but it's smart casting that makes the film. The likes of Irons, Byrne, Depardieu, Malkovich--these heavyweights play with a marked nimbleness that brings credence to a fluffy story. Leonard DiCaprio is young and stiff here, but supported well in the ensemble cast. It's fun to see Peter Sarsgaard and Hugh Laurie pop up in small roles.
Writer/director Randall Wallace pulls from great source material to create a fresh, continuing story of the famed trio. The film doesn't take itself seriously, but unfolds with conviction.
As I see it, The Man in the Iron Mask is memorable period entertainment. It makes a stuffy novel approachable and perhaps more inviting.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Stanley Kubrick's final film is one of two things: a debauched sexual thriller that examines the human psyche or a steamy turd. Eyes Wide Shut stars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman in what would become their final performance as a couple. Interesting, no? No... it's not.
As I see it, melodramatic performances from our leading couple overshadow a beautifully rendered film. The Cruise/Kidman combo is laughable at best. Where is the tension and desire required?! The casting is ineffectual.
Kubrick is commanding behind the camera. The cinematography--the lavishness of the production is simple gorgeous, but that doesn't make it worth watching.
Eyes Wide Shut--honestly, that's what I wish I'd done..
Postscript 08.16.09 ~ I didn't exactly revisit the whole thing. I did reexamine the final scenes. I get, now, what Kubrick was aiming for. While I don't think he was successful due to poor casting, it's sufficient. Unless you're a fan of his, I wouldn't bother.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Lost in Translation (2003)
Two Americans who have become passive players in their own destiny rediscover themselves in Japan. Bob Harris, a has-been actor, relegated to shrilling whiskey in Japan has been on auto-pilot for years. Bob is struggling with the realization he's no longer relevant. Young newly-wed Charlotte (Scarlett Johannson) has been abandoned by her photographer husband (Giovanni Ribisi). The two unlikely tourist find comfort in each other's company, if only for a few days.
Lost in Translation is an understated gem from writer/director Sofia Coppola. This gently nuanced film owes much of it's flavor to stunning performances by Murray and Johannson.
Murray, played against type, is a forlorn shell of what was. Time has passed. He is old and inadequate in his world. Murray plays an exceptionally sad man well. In contrast, but equally fascinating, is Johannson. Her Charlotte is a listless, philosophy major who's been demoralized by her circumstances.
Set amid the yin/yang of modern, industrial Japan and the history of the country, Lost in Translation reflects our characters on an subliminal level. Companionship for these two begins on a basic level--the ability to communicate. Surrounded by an assault of the senses and yet lost in translation, the two are destined for each other despite the barriers.
Lost in Translation is undeniably arty with exquisite cinematography that contrasts the aforementioned parts of the city. Combined with an unusual indie soundtrack, the film does have an odd vibe. But Coppola justifies her end result beautifully.
As I see it, Lost in Translation is a pitch-perfect contemporary drama. The film delivers to those willing to be still.
Reality TV (2009)
Ah, summer! The heat, the plans, the long days and cool nights, the reality TV. It doesn't get in any better. Amid endless re-runs of my favorites shows, I find respite in Big Brother, Hell's Kitchen, and Project Runway.
Big Brother never fails to disappoint. Season 11 with it's lame and quickly axed twist {high school cliques}, doesn't quite have the personalities of Evil Dick or Janelle this year. Sadly, Mr. Ego--'Roid head himself, Jesse, finagled a spot on the show. Love to hate 'em all. Lippy Chima, Master Gamer/Mongoloid Ronnie, Scary Fairy Lydia, Airy Jordan, and Obnoxious Russell-none of them are weirdly interesting, but I still watch. 'Cause it's fun.
Gordon Ramsey, you don-KEY! God, I love you. But I love imitating you more. Your no-nonsense, in your face attitude coupled with a distinctly British demeanor makes this American quake. Lord of the Pass, you take no sh!t from anyone, but dish it out beautifully. Your vernacular is equally delightful. On your tongue, nouns become barbs of disgust. Cows are insulted by the morons on Hell's Kitchen.
The lawsuit is over. Project Runway is back on Lifetime in the fall. In the meantime, catch up with Season 5 on DVD. Tim Gunn, wish you were my fairy godfather. I'd always look good. The tan-orexic Blayne is eclipsed only by the leathery Stella. Since when did mousy mean couture?! When Pam, er, Leanne showed up. It's runway-licious.
Take your time, fall. Don't hurry. With television like this Fringe can wait.
Friday, August 7, 2009
G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009)
Inspired by the Hasbro line of toys from the 80s comes G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. Lucky for us, the franchise is in the perfect hands of director Steven Sommers. The movie is perfect summer fare. When kept in perspective it's a blast.
The ensemble cast of Tatum Channing, Sienna Miller, Marlon Wayans, Dennis Quaid, Christopher Eccleston, Ray Park, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt won't win any Oscars for the performances here, but they will win the adoration of a generation. The film strikes the perfect balance of action and camp to create an adventure fantasy worth seeing.
The Rise of Cobra sets the tone for building a franchise with limitless possibilities. Sommers wisely weaves back stories for the players: Duke (Channing), Snake Eyes (Parks), Baroness (Miller), Destro (Eccleston) and Zartan. The movies could go anywhere from here.
Back to the task at hand. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra follows an elite paramilitary group that sets out to stop a rogue military organization determined to bring the world to it's knees. The film rolls out like a non-stop action sequence with corny one-liners {hearkening to the original cartoon series}, awesome weaponry, and a dash of romance.
Snake Eyes is easily the most complex of our American Heroes. The fully clad ninja and his vow of silence speaks boldly. His action sequences, a la, Ray Parks are a highlight. Equally fascinating is Sienna Miller as Baroness. Almost unrecognizable, her average execution of dialogue works. Surprisingly Marlon Wayans wasn't the killjoy I expected. Instead of sucking the air out of the room, he complimented the wooden Channing beautifully.
*SPOILER AHEAD* It's unfortunate that McCullen/Destro's evolution begins so late in the film. You knew it was going to happen; I was so psyched for the moment that upon it's delivery I was spent. Now I really have something to look forward to. Christopher Eccleston (The Others, 28 Days Later) plays the hybrid villain well with an accent that is laughably over-the-top. *SPOILER END*
Brendan Fraser cameos in The Pit sequences as Duke and RipCord are initiated in the Joes. What a riot! These sequences alone really set the tone of the film.
As I see it, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra is exactly what I wanted. It's pitch-perfect entertainment that I unabashedly enjoyed. Check reality at the door; embrace your childhood and enjoy!
J4T: 4 stars
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Bonus Feature: Book
His blunt take on life is shockingly honest, occasionally obvious and I like it. Hatch has no tolerance for excuses. After a quick chapter filled with back story {and plenty of excuse-building events}, Hatch challenges the reader to get down to self-examination with his brash 'suck it up' attitude.
The novelty of the book was certainly the catalyst for purchase. But surprisingly, the book is a cohesive read that manages to move beyond the kitch. Rich actually has something worth listening too.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Synecdoche, New York (2008)
This film is an exercise in tedium. One that I failed miserably. It wasn't for lack of trying. As a fan of existential drama (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, anyone?}, I couldn't wait to see Phillip Seymour Hoffman in the leading role. Synecdoche, New York, directed by Charlie Kaufman, promised to be an existential drama of greatness. I don't think so..
Caden Coutard (Hoffman) is a theatre director who is given a McArthur Fellow grant. With seemingly unlimited resources thanks to the grant, Coutard sets out to write and direct the play of his life--turns out it's quite autobigraphical. In the midst of execution, Coutard must contend with the countless woman (Catherine Keener, Emiy Watson, Michelle Williams, Diane Wiest) who have influenced him.
I was sadly disappointed by the inane pretentiousness that filled the screen. It was ridiculous. Hoffman plays a sad-sack of a man who, we the viewer, meet at 40. As his life and play spiral out of control, so does this film.
Twice over the weekend, I tried to interact with this film. No luck. As I see it, Synecdoche, New York goes down as another of the critic favorites, but not one of mine.