Elysium

     In the year 2154, the current wealth gap explodes to an extreme that most didn’t think possible. The extremely wealthy and affluent members of society escape the pollution and over population of our planet for a virtually perfect existence on a space station called Elysium. The rest of the human race is left behind on a dying planet to starve and suffer abuse by a system mechanical operated authority and sub-par living conditions. That all changes when Max (Matt Damon) suffers a life-threatening injury and uses his steely resolve to fight the system and embark on a mission that could balance the scales of justice and welfare once and for all.
    Elysium (Rated R) is a breathtaking and often eerie projection of a future is more possible than most would care to realize. It’s this jarring expansion of the current socioeconomic crisis that makes this film almost too relevant. Many can easily misconstrue the film as a vehicle for political agenda rather than a science fiction drama. This movie is an allegory of immense proportions and a very well-crafted one.
    State-of-the-art special effects and a well driven plot vehicle allow star Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, and Sharlto Copley (District 9) to deliver superb performances that will have you at the edge of your seat and discussing the film with friends for days.
    Like all films, Elysium is not perfect. Jodie Foster’s fake accent is skeptical at best, but she makes up for it with venomous attitude and electric elocution. Some will recognize on-going themes from director’s first major motion picture, District 9 and criticize his single-mindedness. Fortunately, that’s not the case with Elysium. The film is poignant, visceral, and has none of the pacing issues of its predecessor. Fans of director Neill Blomkamp’s District 9 will adore Elysium, others will merely speculate on the film’s minor flaws.

Rating: 4 Stars (Maximum of 5)

The Butler

     In the brief history of the United States of America, many people from several cultures suffered at the hands of racism and ignorance while trying make better lives for themselves and their families. Most famously, the American Black community suffered injustices of a grand scale and endured humiliation of a level that no other race can attest to.
      In Lee Daniels' new film "The Butler" (PG-13) follows the often tragic life of Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker). We watch as he painstakingly works his way from the cotton fields and eventually to The White House where he works as a butler under eight presidents, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Vietnam War.
      This film succeeds on multiple levels, but most importantly in its deft transitions between the changes in American Society and its effects on Cecil's family and life. Stunning portrayals of intimate encounters within and outside The White House create on screen tensions on a level I have not seen depicted in a decade of film.
     From John Cusack's Richard Nixon to Jane Fonda's Nancy Reagan, "The Butler" soars with accurate character acting and lethal undertones woven into a complex and meticulous script. Oprah Winfrey shines as Gloria Gaines, the oft withdrawn alcoholic housewife that struggles with her and her husband's demons all whilst raising two boys during one of the most turbulent time periods in American history. It is easy to say that this is one of the first truly great movies of the year so far and will go down as an instant American classic.

Rating: 5 Stars (Maximum of 5)

Special Note To My Readers

Special Note To My Readers:

    After nearly a year away from writing, I have finally found my passion for it again. My current position at the Radisson Blu Hotel Chicago is coming to an end and I am  leaving the U.S. to live in London. During my time overseas I will be wholeheartedly dedicating myself to my relationship and rediscovering myself and my passions. Recently, I have been encouraged by my hotel's General Manager to write for the Radisson Newsletter "Blu's News". I am deeply appreciative for my GM's support and encouragement. Without him pushing me, I probably would not have returned to this blog. I hope that there are people who are still reading this and I welcome all new followers along in my epic journey to revitalize myself and bring my once dead dreams into a vibrant reality.