Masterpiece Theatre Classic: Jane Austen's Persuasion (2007)

BUMP!!  Let's revisit.  Love, love, love this gentle film.  This movie  continues to be a favorite version of Persuasion.  The cast of characters here are charming, but it is Capt. Wentworth--Rupert Penry-Jones--who is simply delightful.  You know the story...

Over the course of the next few months, Masterpiece Theatre is presenting six adaptations of Jane Austen novels. Persuasion is the first.

Anne Elliot (Sally Hawkins) is 27. Unmarried and dealing with family financial peril, hope is fading for our heroine. Eight years ago, she was persuaded by her family not to marry a young naval officer whose fortune was yet untold. Now, circumstances bring Captain Frederick Wentworth (Rupert Penry-Jones) back into her life. Returning from sea, Wentworth finds no lack of swooning young ladies. Anne is determined to avoid him, brooding on what should have been.  She's desperate to know if he still loves her and yet afraid to find out. Can love lost be rekindled?

Nothing can take away from this beautiful adaptation filled with period drama, lovely costumes, and rich dialogue. Hawkins is the perfect morose, wistful, but stoic creature. The dashing Captain Wentworth is quite break-taking. Ladies can't help but melt at the sight. Although, he does have a very fashion forward hair style for the period.

Unrequited love, delicate and haunting and so very romantic. 

Originally reviewed:  01.18.08

Shutter Island (2010)

Scorsese directs his muse (DiCaprio) in a predictable, but captivating period thriller.  Do it again!

Postscript 02.22.10 ~  Shutter Island is an atmospheric psycho-thriller in which Martin Scorsese shows his hand WAY too early in the movie. Sadly, the suspense is killed because of predictability. But Leonardo DiCaprio makes the film worth watching as does the overall morose look of the film. The premise centers around psychotropic (hallucinogenic) drugs and German experiments in WW2. Watchable, yes. Rentable, totally. It’s a total Scorsese film—love ‘em—but it’s only getting 3 stars instead of 4 because the plot is too easily deduced.

Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009)

One look at this footage of MJ’s concert rehearsal and there is no denying that it was going to be one heck of a comeback. The King of Pop is in his element. Running his backup dancers and band through a tight choreography, refining cues and steps, Jackson moves like he was 30. With definitive opinions on everything from props and lighting to the action on the video screen, here is a man who continues to innovate and refuses to quit dreaming.

Over the 90+ minutes we see what the concert would have looked like. Along with interviews from director Kenny Ortega, choreographer Taylor Payne, back-up dancers, and musicians, we get the feeling we are experiencing something truly special because we are.

The musical numbers include everything a MJ fan could want. Thriller 3-D shows the promise of what could have been. Billie Jean, complete with signature moves is smooth. Beat It sounds as brilliant as ever.

Not to be missed are the accompanying bonus features. A look into his wardrobe created for the evening is amazing; as is the featurette focusing on the search for the best of the best back-up dancers.

As I see it, This Is It, is a must-see for fans of the King. Regardless of your personal feelings towards the man, this is footage of a genius—a genius who died too soon.

Postscript 02.02.10 ~ I've watched this documentary three times in two days.  It continues to fascinate me.  Michael continues to make me happy.

Year One (2009)

I have a question. Who thinks this is funny?! Endless sex and fart jokes do NOT make a movie. Who green lights a screenplay like this?! The same people who like Paul Blart, if you ask me.

Zed (Jack Black) and Oh (former It-boy Michael Cera) are two idiot cavemen that have an adventure laden journey through the ancient world after being kick out of their tribe for stupidity. Unlike Bill and Ted, Oh and Zed are lame. Strangely, it doesn’t seem to matter that Olive Platt, Hank Azaria, Zander Berkley, Horatio Sans, and Olivia Wilde pop up.

Year One is just not funny.

Postscript 11.07.09 ~ Herein lies the film's demise.  It's too long.  Watch the theatrical version and Year One is wee bit more palatable.

9 (2009)

After a raging war between man and machine, stitch punks are the only remaining creatures on Earth. These rag-doll creatures were the last hope for the Scientist. Survival is a struggle for the rag-tag group led by 1 (voiced by Christopher Plummer) who deems fear essential to life. 2 (Martin Landau) discovers 9 (Elijah Wood) disoriented and confused, bringing him into the group. When one of their kind is ‘sacrificed’ for the better good, 9 challenges their leader. Shock, but intrigued, the remaining stitch punks must stand tall if they truly wish to survive.

Wonderfully dark and post apocalyptic, 9 is a visually stunning film co-produced by Tim Burton and Timor Bekmambetov. Directed by Shane Acker, 9 is an arresting spectacle. The animation is top-notch, adult in nature, with untold action and detail. The Burton/Bekmambetov influences are strong, but never overshadow this fit little number.

Credible voice work by the aforementioned, John C. Reilly, Jennifer Connelly, and Crispin Glover are delightful. Though the film is essentially a one-note plot, it’s the distinct personalities of these rag-doll creatures that keep your attention.

Themes courtesy of Danny Elfman serve to further the atmospheric nature of the film. Director Acker does remarkable stuff with his short story turned debut feature, but the film has much unrealized potential. Clocking in at less than 90 minutes, 9 is brilliantly executed with macabre and sometimes quizzical elements that play to the film’s strength.

As I see it, 9 is an interesting animated piece. Not typical Disney fair thanks to a set of off-beat protagonists and bleak subject matter. Things do not bode well and while it’s dark, often creepy, 9 never fails to entertain.

Postscript 01.02.10 ~ I was excited to finally sit down and revisit this one.  But what I came home from the theatre with (and blogged about) is different than what I saw tonight.  I'm a wee bit disappointed --kinda like The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.  The idea is brilliant, but after tonight, I'm not sure what I saw.  The animation is techinically amazing.  The stitchpunks are interesting, but the film lacks something.  What, I am unsure.

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.

Stripes (1981)

The viewing of this movie began as a homework assignment. My task: view and reimagine a key scene for a Firm skit in the fourth quarter. After sitting through this nonsense, all I could think was 'this isn't funny.'

Stripes is a Bill Murray vehicle of the early 80s. *yawn* It's an excuse for him to act half-heartedly as a loser. As John Winger, Murray plays a man who joins the Army as a last ditch attempt to validate his existence after losing his job, girlfriend, houseplants, etc. Winger, along with best friend Russell Zitsky (Harold Ramis) and an assortment of other losers (John Candy, Conrad Dunn, Judge Reinhold, among others) whose spirits are willing, but bodies are not, wreak havoc during basic training. Much to the chargrin of Sgt. Hulka (Warren Oates) and Capt. Stillman (John Laroquette), the regiment of misfits actually get it together.

Directed by Ivan Reitman (my first clue), Stripes is obviously dated. The film has moments of comedic zingers, but overall the film itself is undisciplined. I cannot attest to the film's 'classic' status as Stripes' charms fall flat.

As I see it, I prefer my Bill Murray matured and dramatic {see Broken Flowers or Wes Anderson films}. It's the slovenly nature and ridiculousness that ultimately irritates me. Call me a snob, but this film lacks any true value. Alas, I am not rid of this film as I must concern myself with one key scene: the ceremony parade.

Postscript 07.29.09 ~ Found the value... my age works against me here. But apparently Stripes tapped into pop culture at one time. As anyone of middle age about Stripes and the reactions are classic. Guess you just had to be there.

Up (2009)

Widowed curmudgeon Carl Fredrickson has dreamed of traveling the world. When his beloved wife Ellie died, Carl (voiced by Ed Asner) all but gave up the dream that he shared with her. Fate lures him into an unbelievable adventure as Carl sets out to realize Ellie's wish. As he floats away, Carl discovers an annoying 8-year old Wilderness Explorer, Russell, has tagged along in an effort to help old people.

Pixar's latest offering, Up, is a tender, but thrilling story of love and rough terrain. It's heartwarming story that allows Pixar genius to shine through.

The story is endearing--had me weeping in the theatre in the first five minutes--and despite themes of death, loss, obsession, and disappointment, the film celebrates all the good. Christopher Plummer is the voice of baddie and fellow explorer, Charles Muntz.   Muntz, the character is a huge letdown.  He is disappointing as is his army of talking dogs. Doug--the good dog--is the Jar-Jar Binks of the film.

Pixar is known for the souls in their movies and Up is imbued with the best.  It joins the ranks of WALL*E, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles for its spirit.
Visually, Up is beautiful to behold--the balloons especially. Their jewel tones are so vivid and life-like. Watch closely and you see how smartly they are utilized--physically and symbolically. Subtle homages to pop culture makes for a great treasure hunt.

As I see it, Up is technically perfect. All elements of effective animation are here. It's the weak story and lack of character development that are HUGE disappointments. Up isn't an entire waste of time--it's pretty to look at, but ultimately, the film is overinflated.


Postscript 12.26.09  Perhaps one of the truest stories of the year, the crew at Pixar has successfully created a film that appeals to all ages and culls the best elements of ever movie genre.  It has the depth of the finest dramas, the humor of the oddest indies, the silliness of the classic children's movies, the technicality of the most intricate sci-fi.  I was wrong.  But... I still think that Muntz and Doug are the films weakest points.  They still irritate me.

Hail the King of Pop

Disbelief, shock, and sadness has befallen us all as news of tortured genius {only in my opinion, mind you} Michael Jackson's passing has come forward. An innovator and ICON, Michael Jackson's influence in music history is undeniable.

My colleague, JoCo, told me--it was around 4p. I didn't believe it; he's a joker. I had heard earlier in the afternoon that he was rushed to the hospital, but dead?! Not MJ--not Michael. I hit the web immediately--screw renewals--and was stunned at the news. The tears welled... it wasn't until the drive home that the emotions took over. As I turned Alfred towards home, the familiar refrain of Billie Jean greeted me... I couldn't help it.

I join fellow Jackson fans--those who stood tall while Jackson's personal life disintegrated around him--in mourning the loss of a genius that shaped music as we know it.

Emotions are running deep. Words don't come. The sorrow--it's surreal. As detached as I am, this seems personal. Thanks Snoova.

One thing is certain... that choir is sounding awesome right about now.

Postscript 06.26.09 This exchange took place at the Firm:

Me: Wondering… if you feel/felt the same way I do… “as if a thousand voices cried out all at once” But if joy could come out of this… the radio is suddenly awesome. There’s a beat in my step as MJ’s voice rolls through my head. I’m sad, but joyous. Weird.

OM: I feel sad, but more for the fact that my generation can’t appreciate the artist that was Michael Jackson. I am of a generation that was only exposed to his music during mediocre talent shows and covers (Smooth Criminal anyone?). I grew up with a Michael Jackson that was a “child molesting monster”, the man who wore a mask everywhere and dangled babies over balconies. One of my earliest memories is him marrying Lisa Marie Presley. How sad is that? I should have been born in a different time…

Twilight (2008)

After her mother remarries, Phoenix native Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) moves to the small town of Folks to live with her father. The pale-faced girl's arrival to the town has the locals talking. Adjusting to a new school mid semester is even more difficult thanks to the odd boy with perfectly coiffed hair. Strangely attracted to the equally pale faced Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), Bella will stop at nothing to get to him--only to ask--who does your hair?

All jokes aside, Twilight is a tween and desperate housewife phenom. The first book of Stephanie Meyer's vampire series makes it to the big screen with director Catherine Harwicke (thirteen) at the helm. Twilight is a harmless, cliched romance that unexpectedly charmed this viewer.

Bella actually falls for the mysterious, brooding classmate, who inadvertently endangers her life, because he's a vampire.

Twilight starts Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, but the real star of the show is Pattinson's luscious locks. Never out of place, Pattinson's hair delivers a gorgeous performance and reaches astronomical height thanks to, I think, L'oreal's new line. Pattinson is beautiful to behold with dark eyes and a powdery white complexion to rival a geisha. Equally beautiful and stiff, is Kristen Stewart. Her hair is just as gorgeous, but plays second fiddle. It's her faux sensuality and not-so subtle 'come hither' during the entire movie that's remarkable.

If Hardwicke had replaced all of these rolls with adults, we'd have a fun vampire dramady on our hands. But we don't. Instead, we have Twilight.

As I see it, Twilight is a mediocre story with beautiful people in a perfectly melancholic setting that the tween set and unfulfilled soccer moms will eat up. I, too, fell under it's spell thanks to unintentional humor, corny dialogue, Pattinson's brooding eye brows/amazingly hot car and a great soundtrack.

Seriously, the potential here is solid. Much like Harry Potter and the Sorceror's Stone, Twilight sets up interesting mythology, enigmatic characters, and just enough ambivalence to make you want more.

Postscript 3.25.9 The comments on this post actually led me to watch this one again. I'm standing by the review. Perhaps it's all lost in context. Regardless, Twilight is mind-numbingly predictable and--no apologies--funny has Hades. It makes me laugh.

Tropic Thunder (2008)

Tugg Speedman (Ben Stiller) is an actor who's star is waning. After a series of Scorcher films, he's looking to become a bankable actor once again. Kirk Lazurus (impeccable Robert Downey, Jr.) is an Australian born actor who embraces each role, immersing himself in the character. Alpha Chino (Brandon T. Jackson) is a rapper looking for a role on the big screen. Jeff Portnoy (Jack Black), star of the Fatties franchise just wants to be taken seriously and Kevin Sandusky is a young, up-and-coming star that just wants to score it big with the chicks.

Led by director Damien Cockburn (Steve Coogan), the five actors are hoping to make it big with Tropic Thunder, a dramatization of a Vietnam War memoir written by Four Leaf Tayback (Nick Nolte).

Through a series of unlucky events, the actors find themselves in the roles of a lifetime--actually having to BE the people they are portraying in order to survive a drug kingpin.

Tropic Thunder is biting satire. The film is so wrong for so many different reasons and I loved every one of them. Stiller and Co. dare to take the film into dangerous territory and don't pull any punches. They gross out, geek out and take the 'F' bomb to new heights.

Scene after scene, Tropic Thunder brings smart humor, quick dialogue and crazy stunts that keep the action moving and the viewer revolted or distraught. There's too much to cover here. Coogan's herpes commercial was laugh-out loud. Simple Jack--what the hell?! Les Grossman. Half-squat. Lance. Downey Jr. easily has some of the best dialogue of the film, but that doesn't detract from Stiller, Black, or the myriad of supporting cast members. Cody?! Where the $%#&! did this guy come from?!

Perverse and profane, Tropic Thunder is a refreshing, smart comedy. Stiller has returned to form and it is glorious! In essence, Ben Stiller has kicked Apatow's ass with this one.

12.14.08 Postscript: Tropic Thunder is still funny with its gratuitous language and non-stop insults (of just about everyone/thing). NOT for the easily offended, Tropic Thunder is easily one of the best films of 2008,

The Dark Knight (2008)

Writer-Director Christopher Nolan has created an amazing follow-up to 2005's Batman Begins. Returning with a stellar cast including Christian Bale, Gary Oldman. Michael Caine, and Morgan Freeman, Nolen also taps Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhard and Maggie Gyllenhall.

Without giving away crucial details, The Dark Knight picks up with Batman (Bale) teaming up with Lt. Gordan (Oldman) to dismantle Gotham City's criminal underbelly. A crusading young D.A., Harvey Dent (Eckhart) wants to assist the two and bring Gotham's crime scene to an end. But when the Joker (Ledger), a psychotic new villain decides to bring anarchy and mayhem, Gotham's heroes may have just met their match.

After viewing The Dark Knight, the film's staying power at the box office is evident. Chris and John have written a brilliant story beyond explosions and mayhem. The dialogue is as much an essential part of the film as are the characters.

The performances across the board are top-notch. Bale is stout. He embodies Bruce Wayne well, but once he dons the bat suit, he morphs into something completely different. He plays Wayne with two personalities: rich and bemused, menaced and annoyed. It's amazing to see. Caine and Freeman play powerful supporting characters. Oldman is subtly brilliant. Maggie Gyllenhaal is a a beautiful and engaging replacement for Katie Holmes.

Heath Ledger. His performance as Joker is commanding. Further enhanced by his death, I know, but the Joker more than surpasses Nicholson's turn. Nicholson's was macabre. Ledger's Joker is brimming with menace. Ledger's Joker is madness and evil incarnate. Nefarious comes to mind.

Aaron Eckhart is a treat. He is solid as Dent and phenomenal as Two-Face. What a villain. Cillian Murphy has a cameo as Scarecrow. I can only hope for that storyline in the third film.

The Dark Knight is solidly paced and uses every second to deliver action, drama, and reflection. {Yes, thoughtful reflection, courtesy of Luscious Fox and Alfred.} The film doesn't prostelzited, but rather gives pause to consider modern-day concerns.

Gotham City and Hong Kong are beautiful under Nolan's direction. The cinematography is equally sweeping and chillingly tight. Han Zimmer's score is a masterful compliment to the film.

The Dark Knight is Nolan's masterpiece. It's a film worth getting excited about and definitely worth seeing on the big screen.

Postscript 05.11.09 ~ Nearly a year later, The Dark Knight is still exciting. Though I'd temper my adoration of Ledge--still a knock-out performance, the atmosphere of the film is amazing. It's bleak... poetic and I enjoy it whole-heartedly. Still a must-see!

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

This is my first film 'From the guys who brought you "A 40-Year Old Virgin" and "Knocked Up"' and my last.

Peter (Jason Segel) is a music composer for the CSI-esque television drama that stars his famous girlfriend, Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell). When she dumps him, Peter takes off to Hawaii only to find Sarah and her new flamboyant, British rock star boyfriend, Aldous Snow (Russell Brand) are vacationing at the same resort. The hotel clerk, Rachel (Mila Kunis), takes pity on Peter and tries to help him out.

Oh my God!! This is a cute romantic comedy, but the jokes are SO tired!! Forget Forgetting Sara Marshall. The film is as clichéd as they come. The cast and setting is beautiful, but the film is so utterly stupid. The plot is improbable and sloppy editing shows glaring mistakes. Did I mention it was stupid.

Jonah Hill, you are a one-trick pony. You're boring and my legs work. Bill Hades sucks. Hardcore. Jason Segal and Mila Kunis both provide solid, if stupid, performances. Russell Brand really saves the {STUPID!} movie as Snow. Still now amount of Snow or puppet vampire comedy could save this POS.

Forget it! This is a metaphor for crap! That is unless you enjoyed other films 'From the guys who brought you "A 40-Year Old Virgin" and "Knocked Up"'.

Postscript 03.07.09 ~ I read a postive review from a friend recently; so, I revisted. Still average. Russell Brand is funny. The vampire puppets are funny. But not even Jason Segal's package in the UR version makes this any more than average.