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)

Skyfall

This post has been written by someone very dear to me. He took the time out of his busy schedule to contribute to this blog. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

     Being based in the UK, I've had the privilege of seeing the latest chapter in the Bond saga,"Skyfall" before its release in the US. As such, EpicD has asked me to share my thoughts on it so here it goes.
Bond films follow a pretty standard blueprint, British national secrets are in danger. Bond goes after the bad guys, gets distracted by some girl, and M. gets him back on track. Finally, he [Bond] saves the day. In many respects, "Skyfall" follows this very pattern, but with some unexpected twists.
     With a running time of 2 hours and 23 minutes, this addition to the 007 series will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The series is somewhat showing its age, as Skyfall is a definite attempt to modernize and bring a new-found sense of relevance to the saga.
     The films formula is simple: MI6 is under attack from multiple angles and 007 (Daniel Craig) must come out of 'retirement' to save it. Bond's loyalty to M. (Judi Dench) is tested as her past, in the form of Silva (Javier Bardem), appears from the shadows to haunt her. Of course there is the girl, Eve (Naomie Harris), to keep 007 healthily distracted.
     Directed by Sam Mendes, the film starts out in unfamiliar territory. Is bond still relevant? Do we still need spies in a post cold war era? 007 and MI6 struggle to prove their relevance in what ends up a very personal conclusion surrounding the Bond we all know and love.
 

Rating: 4 Stars (Maximum 5) - Action, wit, and secrecy of a bygone era clash with the modern world resulting in an epic addition to the Bond franchise.

Looper

     In my triumphant return to writing, I am briefly discussing sci-fi/action film Looper. Since February, I have been vexed by the vicarious vicissitudes of fate. Now that things have calmed down, I will resume doing what I love most...watching and critiquing movies. Without further adieu, here is a brief synopsis of Film District's Looper.
     Fate, providence, predestination, consequence, future, and death are all themes in Looper, a time traveling action epic starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, and Emily Blunt. Looper, takes place in the not so distant year of 2074. It is a society where one can work as an assassin for mob syndicates that send victims 30 years back in time for execution. These "assassins" are known as loopers. Loopers lead a relatively easy life as long as they kill each mark put in front of them. The job continues until they assassinate their future selves. Upon completion of this inevitable task, the "loop" is closed. Effectively closing all loose ends that tie these assasins to their emloyers. This is where the problem begins...
     Looper begins with a brief glimpse into the life and addictions of Joe (Gordon-Levitt), a looper whose future will bring drastic changes to his present. Once this change occurs, we are violently introduced to future Joe (Bruce Willis). A man with his own set of memories and life history that are about to be disrupted by the consequences of time travel. From this point forward the film takes a jarring turn towards rapid story progression, time-paradoxes, and stylized action of the likes we have not seen since Die Hard With A Vengeance. As a bonus, Sara (Blunt) provides an interesting turn of events that will undoubtedly lead to many conversations with friends on the laws of astrophysics, time travel, and evolution.
     What happens when your future and past intersect? What happens to the past that you remembered before the time/space continuum was corrupted? How do you alter the future without knowing that your actions are the cause of the problem you are trying to solve? These questions are just a few of the conversation starters that will make this movie a must-see-event for years to come. All in all, Looper provides a gripping tale of the consequences of a person's actions and delivers it on a special effects driven platter ensconced in breathtaking brutality that we have not in any film this year. A superb effort from director and writer Rian Johnson, a film that should not be missed.

Rating: 5 Stars (Maximum of 5) - Brutality, science, and masterful storytelling combine in Looper, the best action film of 2012.

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

     For the past several years we as movie-goers have been subjected to an alarming number of adaptations. Whether it has been from a graphic novel, manga, children's book, or other literary work; it seems as if there are no longer any original thoughts in Hollywood. Especially when you think of films that are in fact remakes of a movie that was an adaptation of a play that was an adaptation of something else entirely. Nonetheless, it is happening and will continue to happen. The good news is that occasionally a truly great book to film adaptation is made. Great adaptations go above and beyond to bring the original piece to a vibrant and artful life. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is one of those great film adaptions.
     Directed by Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Hours) Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is an adaptation of a novel with the same title. This film follows a nine-year-old loses his father in the September 11th attacks and his journey to to find the lock to a key that was left behind by his father. Oskar Schell (Thomas Horn) is incredibly close to his father Thomas Schell Jr. (Tom Hanks) and it almost seems as if no one but his dad understands him. Oskar is a jack of all trades; a self-proclaimed amateur inventor, jewelry designer, astrophysicist, tambourine player, and pacifist. The one thing that Oskar isn't is good at is being social. He's petrified of many things and the loss of his father sends him over the edge. A year after his father's death, Oskar embarks on a nearly impossible quest that he hopes will keep him from losing his only friend (his dad).
     The beauty of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is it's intimate perspective on how a single event can destroy so many lives. The imagery alone is enough to conjure powerful emotions for anyone that remembers or was affected by the attacks on the World Trade Center. There are many messages to be found within this artistic and emotional tale of family, loss, and love. Communication, self-expression, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are all subjects found within this film. Bolstered by a spectacular supporting cast featuring Sandra Bullock, Viola Davis, and Max von Sydrow, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close speaks to all generations and all ages. This is easily the first must-see movie event of the new year. I can only hope that 2012 will continue to deliver adaptations such as this one.

Rating: 5 (Maximum of 5) - Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is an incredibly emotional and poignant tale of a boy and his struggle to save the bond he had with his dead father

War Horse

     Once a year there is a film that will rivet it's audience to their core. A film that can be admired by families around the world. This year that film is War Horse, a Steven Spielberg adaptation of a Tony award-winning play of the same name. War Horse is the story of a boy named Albert and his bond with his horse Joey during World War I.

     Seldom are we graced with a quality film that was adapted from a play, which in turn was adapted from a best selling novel. "War Horse" was originally published by Michael Morpurgo in 1982, the book was adapted as a Broadway play in 2007. War Horse the play went on to storm the American Theater Wing's Tony Awards with five awards and wins. Now when undertaking an adaptation of this magnitude the only person I would trust would be Steven Spielberg. Only the director of Saving Private Ryan and Empire of the Sun could replicate a touching tale of love and hardship during wartime.
      War Horse begins with a young Albert (Jeremy Irvine) witnessing the birth of a foal. It quickly develops as we see the foal progress in age from a handsome colt to a dazzling thoroughbred. At the appropriate age this horse is sold to Albert's family and this is where the story truly begins. Albert soon trains Joey (the horse) to be the family's indentured servant. As the training progresses so does the bond between Albert and Joey. That is until one day Joey is sold to the cavalry to cover debts accumulated by the farm. It is here that Joey stops being a work horse and becomes a war horse.
     What makes War Horse different from any other war film, is that it's heart lies in an animal, not the people fighting the war. This is more about a journey through unfortunate circumstance and survival, than it is about conflicts between rival factions. We watch in awe and sometimes humor as Joey journeys across Europe during World War I. This film is littered with irony and adventure of epic proportions. This is a film that children and families alike can enjoy time and time again. Truly, Steven Spielberg has woven another tale that will live on in the hearts and memories of all who see it.

Rating: 5 (Maximum of 5) - A superb and emotional film that will leave you breathless.

Breaking Blah

   I  have noticed that a lot of people are infected with something that can only be described as "The Blah". Symptoms include sore throat, scratchy voice, congestion, mild fatigue, and general malaise. I've been feeling this way for a few weeks now along with a few of my friends. It most certainly doesn't help anything that I've been at home all day everyday these days. Alas, all I can do is wait it out and hope to God it doesn't continue through Thanksgiving.

     Moving along, I had the immense pleasure of see Breaking Dawn Pt. 1 with my niece and partner. I waited to see it because I did not feel like viewing it in a theater packed with people that would irritate or annoy me. So we saw an early Saturday morning show that only had a handful of people who were silent and respectful. The film started and we were instantly transported into a world where emotions are restrained, forced, and generally laughable. Breaking Dawn Pt 1 is essentially all about Bella... actually all the Twilight films are about Bella but I digress. In this movie Bella (Kristen Stewart) gets married to her vampire boyfriend Edward (Robert Pattinson) and gets pregnant. That's the most I can say without spoiling anything else.

     Taking a departure from the previous films, new director Bill Condon (Dreamgirls) opts for a film with more visceral imagery and a more literal translation from the book. Condon gives us the opportunity to "hear" the voices of the "wolves" (technically they are shape-shifters) which previously was avoided. While it was refreshing and effective for the development of the film, the thought-speak felt relatively awkward and contrived. Although I do commend the writers for doing a great job with the wedding. The nuptials were short, the ceremony was quick and the wedding toasts felt almost unscripted, adding to their humours beliveability. I found that the subtle humor in the character interactions made this film.

     The rest of the movie was just kind of blah for lack of a better word. Taylor Lautner takes his shirt off and spends a lot of time running on all fours. That's about it. I could go on about the great make-up job the did on Kristen Stewart and how flawlessly they transformed her character from beautiful Bella Swan to an emaciated pregnant corpse. Outside of great make-up the film's best moments are in the final 20 minutes in which a plethora of frenzied activity culminate to Bella going into labor. The credits begin rolling and those who stick around get a scene where the Volturi are informed on the fate of Bella. Now we unfortunately have wait an entire year for the thrilling conclusion of the Twilight Saga and I can only hope that the film will do the rest of the book a modicum of justice.

Rating: 2.5 (Maximum of 5) - While entertaining Breaking Dawn Pt. 1 still strikes out like it's predecessors

Immortals

     I long for the day that I am graced by the presence of a God-like being. Ever since I was a small boy I imagined that I was chosen by a greater power to do great things. Whether it was Zeus or Professor Charles Xavier, I was certain that I was different from other people. Turns out I was just an extremely melodramatic, overly idealistic loner with many flights of fancy. I adore mythology of all origins. I was originally enthralled by Greek mythology in the fourth grade by my teacher professor Ms. Kamberos at the University of Chicago. She exposed me to a world with a far richer history than that of our own. It is because of her that Greece is my dream destination (specifically Athens and Crete). I take my Greek mythology very seriously and judge the films about it harshly.
     This brings me to my movie critique of the week, Immortals a story of evil King Hyperion's (Mickey Rourke) mad quest for a weapon that can destroy humanity by unleashing the Titans. All that stands in his way is Theseus (Henry Cavill), a mortal man chosen by the Gods to defend humanity. Henry Cavill is perfect as Theseus. Young, agile, beautifully sculpted, and sincere, Cavill's Theseus shines amidst the gritty and baron landscapes. The story propels rapidly and manages not to flounder the story with it's pace. Events unfold with efficiency and ease all while captivating the audience every step of the way. Mickey Rourke is just as ruthless and charming as ever in his role as the mad King Hyperion. A warlord hellbent on bringing the world to his knees and becoming immortal through history.
     Now that I mention history, I must say that while Immortals is fierce and imaginative, but do not expect it to follow traditional Greek mythology. The film avoids giving any background or general information on the Gods or the Titans. Those who are unfamiliar with mythology may feel slightly lost amidst the sea of characters and references that are not explained or properly introduced. Here is a brief rundown of what happened...
     Long ago, before the Gods were fashioned, the Earth was filled with great beings known as the Titans. One Titan known as Kronos had several children by a mortal named Rhea. Kronos eventually ate his children in fear of a prophecy that foretold his undoing by his son. A grief stricken Rhea manages to hide her son Zeus from Kronos so that he may live to maturity. Once of age, Zeus confronts Kronos and forces him to spit up his offspring. With his brothers and sister by his side Zeus leads the Olympians into a battle against the Titan. After a decade, the victorious Olympians drive the remaining Titans into a prison buried beneath Mount Tartarus. The Gods that survived were given titles by their brother Zeus and he was crowned King of the Gods for his might and ingenuity.
    Now while the credits tell us that Helios, Poseidon, Athena, and Aries are the Gods we see in the film, only Athena is addressed by name. I only figured out who Poseidon was due to the fact that I knew that the God of the Sea wielded a trident and could crash into the ocean causing cataclysmic computer generated waves. As for Aries and Helios, well they could have been anyone. The movie focus's more on the mortals and their relationships. Such as Freida Pinto's Phaedra, a virgin oracle that is pursued by King Hyperion for her knowledge. Pinto's Phaedra is beautiful and alluring. She does a decent job playing a virgin with hopes of losing her purity so she will no longer be plagued by her visions.
     Do not misunderstand me, Immortals is a veritable cornucopia of flesh and blood. A solid script, beautiful cast, and jaw dropping special effects make this action fantasy an instant hit. I just believe that when making a film about immortals, you should focus on them. In retrospect instead of calling this film Immortals something like The Legend of Theseus would have been more apropos.

Rating: 3 (Maximum of 5) - A special effects extravaganza that manages to miss the point of it's title.

Anonymous

     As of late, I haven't been feeling entirely certain of myself. I feel as if I have lost some of confidence. I can't explain why or how this has happened. The important part is that it did and I need to figure out how to undo it. It didn't happen all at once either, it sort of occurred slowly and not unexpectedly. I don't really know who I am or who I want to be. Is it an identity crisis? Maybe... I get up everyday and I go through my day completing various tasks that I know must be done. I try my best to maintain a decent level of living and project an image of a person I've meticulously crafted over the years. The problem is, when I look into a mirror, or am left to my own devices for too long, I begin to question the decisions I have made. I start doubting the person that I have led most people to believe that I am. At what point does the facade stop being a facade and become reality? Once a shroud has woven itself within very fibers of your being, can it still be cast off? And if so, what would be left behind?

     Alas, I did not intend on discussing the tempest of thoughts that have been vexing me. My intentions were to merely allude to how easily a person can be forced into circumstances that inevitably lead to great personal misgivings. Anonymous is a highly imaginative film that toys with the notion that William Shakespeare did not write any of his plays, poems, or sonnets. Primarily set in the time of Queen Elizabeth 1, Anonymous is a riveting political thriller involving forbidden love, attempts to succeed the crown, and suppression of free speech. Rhys Ifans (Notting Hill & Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1), Vanessa Redgrave, and David Thewlis (Harry Potter) all lead an ensemble cast through complex English politics and how the greatest playwright to have ever put pen to paper came to be. It is a perilous time for writers and politicians alike.

     The film opens with a brilliant prologue performed by Derek Jacobi. He literally sets the stage for a great tale that even I would love to see performed in a theater or opera house. It rapidly progresses from the prologue to a series of elaborate set pieces and time jumps. At first the timelines are a little confusing, but as the film progresses it entrenches you in a battle of wits and subterfuge that spans decades.

     The central plot of Anonymous surrounds the Earl of Oxford and his personal identity crisis. He struggles with his great imagination and fails to balance it with even a modicum of pragmatism. The choices he makes are merely to satisfy those around him. When he attempts to make decisions for himself, they lead him to great tragedy and sorrow. What is a life worth living if you have not been allowed to live the life you like? I must applaud director Roland Emmerich and writer John Orloff for putting together this unbelievably creative film. From beginning to the very bitter end, you have sit in awe of the fantastic tale that was woven to spark debate and conversations across the globe.

Rating: 4 (Maximum of 5) - Anonymous is a captivating emotional thrill ride that will leave you salivating for more.

Action Films! (Killer Elite & Abduction)

     This long overdue post has been unfortunately delayed by a great many things. I had succumbed to an end of summer cold, end of season allergies, a busy schedule, and the realization that I'm not getting paid to do this. Simply put, in the face of everyday life this blog is an indulgence and an often expensive one as well. Now here's the good news, for the next month or so I will be posting much more frequently.
     Moving along, since my last post I have seen quite a few films. Killer Elite, Abduction, Straw Dogs, and Dream House. Seeing as most of these have been out for a while, I'm not sure if it would be worthwhile to write solitary blogs on each film. Besides, Killer Elite and Abduction are barely worth my time to discuss. they are ordinary action films with very little achievements of note. Killer Elite is an attempt at an all-star cast action film starring Clive Owen, Robert DeNiro, and Jason Statham. This film is about a special-ops agent that goes into retirement only to be lured out to rescue his mentor. I never give plot spoilers, so all I have to say further about this movie is that it's mediocre. The action is great but the script hardly delivers. Statham is mono-toned and mostly expressionless. I think he's fumbled his way through one too many Transporter films. As for Robert DeNiro, his character felt fake and insincere. DeNiro is more memorable as a gay air pirate in 2007's Stardust. Clive Owen is the only actor in this movie who delivers his lines with color and emotion. It is films like this that make me avoid the action film genre in general.

     Next is Abduction, an action film starring Taylor Lautner that's unfortunately aimed at underage teenagers. Sigourney Weaver's presence in this film is what initially drew me and her talents are greatly wasted and untapped in this dry extremely corny film. The story centers on Nathan (Taylor Lautner), a young man who's life is sent spiraling out of control once he finds a childhood photo of himself on a missing persons website. The film initially shows great potential by immersing us in the nearly perfect life of Nathan and allowing us to see it unravel at alarming rates. The downside to this is that the film seems to have been written and shot for teenage girls. Awkward moments, cheesy lines, and toned down violence abound in a movie that could have been a great platform for Lautner to shed his Twilight identity. Don't get me wrong, the film is still enjoyable but it clearly intended for a Disney Channel audience.
     Unlike the Killer Elite and Abduction, I have a lot to say about Straw Dogs and Dream House. Both Straw Dogs and Dream House will get individual posts.

Killer Elite - Rating: 2.5 (Maximum of 5) - Clive Owen is the saving grace of this movie that is otherwise just another testosterone fest with no substance
Abduction - Rating: 2 (Maximum of 5) - A witless film with lots of untapped potential

Lion King 3D

     17 years ago Walt Disney released a film that would permanently ingrain itself in the minds of millions of people across the globe. That film would be The Lion King, it went on to win two Academy Awards and three Golden Globes including Best Motion Picture - Comedy/Musical. Now it's 2011 and The Lion King is back for a limited release and remastered for 3D.
     The Lion King for it's time was unprecedented. It's liquid animation and vivid color palette make it one of a kind. Boasting an award winning score from Hans Zimmer (Inception, Dark Knight) and playful dialogue, Lion King set itself aside as an instant classic. It's actually surprising that Lion King did not garner a Best Picture nod from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. Beauty & the Beast was nominated a few years prior, but faced lesser competition (Best Picture nominees from 1995 were Apollo 13, Braveheart, Babe, Sense & Sensibility, and Il Postino).
     Now for those who remain skeptical of the 3D format, film conversions such as this {The Lion King} are a glimmering bastion of hope. While most 3D conversion comes across as a cheap parlor tricks aimed at pillaging the consumer's wallet, Lion King was obviously transformed with tender love & care. The opening sequence in which the animal kingdom pays their tribute to the newly born Simba is absolutely breathtaking. The contrast between background to foreground imagery is striking. The 3D conversion along with the digital remastering, gives The Lion King the truly vibrant life it deserves. I hope that learning from the smash success that The Lion King 3D experienced during it's opening weekend, that Disney will continue this trend and release it's other classics in 3D as they come out of those cavernous vaults. I will be impatiently awaiting The Little Mermaid 3D for next year.

Rating: 5 Stars (Maximum of 5) - A truly beloved film, remastered to perfection and bolstered by 3D reanimation.

Contagion

    We've seen it before with films like 1995's Outbreak. A deadly virus is contracted by an unknowing civilian and eventually leads to the greatest medical crisis the world has ever seen. Contagion follows a similar pattern with efficiency and terrifyingly realistic scenarios. In a time where American Health Care is at the forefront of heated political debates, lobbyists pushing even harder to make profits, and H1N1 was big news only two years ago, Contagion serves as a cautionary tale grounded in reality.
    Boasting an star-studded cast Contagion is masterfully directed by Steven Soderbergh (Ocean's Eleven, Traffic). Throughout the film, we are presented with scenarios that are all too familiar and common in today's world. When faced with an epidemic who can we trust? Will the local news tell us what we really need to know? Or will it be the guy that blogs about government and pharmaceutical conspiracies that will win our attention and allegiance? Is Facebook a trusted medium for hearsay and international crisis information? When racked with fear of the unknown, who will the public turn to? Contagion these issues with unprecedented ease and style.  We are privy to the horrors of how quickly and wittingly a global tragedy can escalate.
    I remember when H1N1 or more commonly known as the "Swine Flu" was a massive concern for everyone here in the US. Schools were closed, children died, and decisive measures implemented by the CDC probably prevented mass hysteria. Being overly pro-active is better than not doing anything at all (Where was FEMA during Hurricane Katrina?). Contagion captures all of this and delivers it an well written, beautifully shot, surreal, and epically performed package and delivers it to us in theaters and IMAX screens around the world. A must see event that will leave you breathless till the very end.

Rating: 4 (Maximum of 5) - Not an original work, but modernized, updated, and up-classed

Don't Be Afraid of The Dark

    If there is one thing that all people regardless of race, ethnic or cultural background share, it would be a child's fear of the dark. There is something foreboding about dark spaces and the things that may dwell within them. Famed director Guillermo Del Torro presents Don't Be Afraid of the Dark a horror/thriller remake directed by Troy Nixey (no film credits of mention).
    Don't Be Afraid of the Dark is the story of Sally, a young girl girl sent to live with her father and his girlfriend. Sally becomes the target horrendous creatures that hunt her for their own purpose. While this film is NOT directed by Guillermo Del Torro, it bears his trademark affinity for fairy tale creatures and their lust for blood and children. I can't really say that this movie is scary, I spent the entire time waiting for something truly terrifying to occur. The only moment that I found startling was shown during the trailers for the film.
    Horror isn't what it used to be and probably never will. While I have not seen the original Don't Be Afraid of the Dark I am told by others that this one does not compare. Why is it that filmmakers feel that good movies need to be redone? Why cast actors like Katie Holmes, that do little justice or credit to the original works ? In a day and age where ingenuity and breaking the mold will take a film very far, I feel that producers are sticking to tried and true formulas too closely and leaving very little space for free thought. Take James Wan's Insidious for example, it's a simple yet extremely effective horror film that spoils nothing. Unexpected terror lurks in virtually every scene of this small budget box office hit. Don't Be Afraid of the Dark fails to hit that tenor of terror required to cause buzz. Altogether it is disappointing and Del Toro's name does nothing but draw in the masses for what is an inevitable let down.

Rating: 1 Star (Maximum of 5

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

    Dear reader, before delving into my latest critique, I must state that director Rupert Wyatt has very few films to his credit. When undertaking a summer blockbuster film, you must try and set it aside from all the others. In a summer filled with wizards, robots, aliens, and and super-heroes, Director Rupert Wyatt takes Rise of the Planet of the Apes and delves deeper into the story than any other "Apes" film in history.
    This movie follows James Franco as Will Rodman in his desperate quest for a cure to Alzheimer's disease. In his rush for results, disaster strikes when his experiments go awry and wreak havoc on his life and everyone in San Francisco. Franco continues his streak of success (let's forget about Your Highness) with this foreboding tale of corporate greed and seemingly benevolent pharmaceutical researchers.
    It really isn't a stretch to believe that pharmaceutical companies would be responsible for creating a virus that obliterates man-kind. While this movie avoids such drastic results, it certainly sets the stage for pending doom. This is merely the beginning of a possible end and that is what sets Rise of the Planet of the Apes aside from all the other films in this franchise.
    Solid performances from the entire cast lead us through a series of events that herald both mankind's downfall and also leaves us with a glimmer of hope. The film does an adequate job at addressing issues like animal cruelty, family values, and the perils of gross ignorance. Once an animal becomes integrated into a family does it stop being a pet? Should intelligence play a factor in how a family pet should be treated? I love this movie because it is thought proving and emotional. The final scenes here will leave you breathless and in awe. Truly a job well done.

Rating: 4 (Maximum of 5)

A Simply Barbaric Movie: Conan the Barbarian (2011)

    If you are one of the few individuals who admire a movie for the display of violence and naked women, I will still advise for you to avoid seeing Conan the Barbarian (2011). Starring Jason Momoa (Game of Thrones), Ron Perlman (various terrible film credits), and Rose McGowan (Charmed), Conan the Barbarian is a boorish film about a man's quest for revenge. There really isn't any need for me to elaborate beyond vengeance, because the movie isn't worth the time it takes for me to formulate a synopsis that will differ from all the other blogs out there.
    Amazingly, director Marcus Nispel managed to rope Morgan Freeman into lending his legendary voice as the narrator of the film. Unfortunately, his voice lends nothing to this violent and inane remake of Arnold Schwarzenegger's  Conan The Barbarian (1982) classic. As a fan of Rose McGowan I have to concede that I has high expectations for her, but even she could outwit the what must have only been a paycheck movie for her.
    Lastly, it is movies like this one that give 3D such a bad reputation. Whoever decided to convert this festival of testosterone and violence into 3D should be chastised for their lack of chagrin. Poor films like this one should never be made, let alone released in 3D in hopes of further pillaging the wallets of people struggling in an economic recession.

Rating: 1 (Maximum of 5)

A Neverland Festival

    Lately, I find myself contemplating a great many things from my childhood. Old dreams, aspirations, and other innocent fascinations that make being a child so wonderfully delightful. I find it strange that I am now in my mid to upper twenties and feel as if I have forgotten or lost something along the road to adulthood. With burgeoning financial responsibilities, household maintenance, and other stresses associated with living in a heavily technological era where a push of a button can lead to complete social disaster. Albeit, the perils of modern adult life are drastically different from those that existed a hundred years ago. Things like cholera, typhoid, plague, and lack of water treatment facilities are things of the past. In today's world, we have to concern ourselves with finding Health Insurance, funding a retirement plan, and finding quality education in a country that refuses to spend money to support it. Sigh, to be a child again and not have concern of these pressing matters. The life of a child is one that should be filled with fun, joy, and adventure. Much like that of Peter Pan.
    100 years ago, an English fellow by the name of Jim Barrie wrote a delightful tale of a boy who lived in a world known as Neverland. Here he resides with his youthful companions known as "The Lost Boys", and a foul-mouthed fairy by the name of Tinkerbell. Together they embark on adventures against Indians, Pirates, and mermaids. In this present time, this beloved children's classic has been brought to the stage in a brand new 360 degree venue at the Chicago Tribune's Freedom Center. With promotional assistance from Broadway in Chicago, Peter Pan Live is a must see family event.
    Presented by Three-Sixty, Peter Pan Live rehashes Jim Barrie's epic tale in a way never seen before. Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D rendered projections, and high flying acrobatics, this show sets the stage for both children and adults to be delighted and amazed. Never before have I seen such unique use of multimedia performances. From slow-motion sword fighting to exotic dancing from Tiger Lily you will be glad you saw this show.
    For it to be a 360 degree performance, the staging probably could have been utilized in a slightly more efficient manner, but no one will feel completely left out of the action. The twenty minute intermission was more than adequate and the outdoor set-up provided plenty of concessions, and activities for adults and children to take part of. I sincerely hope the The Tribune's Freedom Center continues to house other imaginative shows like Peter Pan for years to come.

Rating: 4 (Maximum of 5)

The Help

    Every once in a while there comes a great movie that will make you cry, inspire laughter, and evoke intense emotions for the characters and the subject material. Such is the case with director Tate Taylor's film adaptation of The Help. Based in 1960's Mississippi, follows the unlikely friendship that forms between a two black house servants and a white woman inspired to write a book about the sordid lives of southern hospitality.
    I have a deep appreciation for period films. The effort that goes into everything from the casting to costume design is incredible. In fact, this movie is unsettling and upsetting at moments due to the sensitive material of the subject matter. Racial inequality and the oppression of blacks in the South (US) has been told many times, but the disbelief is always there. We are presented with the tales of women who not only cook and clean for white families, but they also care for their children and are privy to ins & outs of upper-class white society. Throughout the film, these women are made to endure many humiliations and social injustice. Bryce Dallas Howard shines as a Southern woman of social standing that harbors not thing but prejudice and hatred to anyone who stands in her way. Hers is one of many characters that you will inevitably grow to love, hate, or relate to.
    Boasting an incredible cast (Viola Davis, Emma Stone, Bryce Dallas Howard, & Cicely Tyson), and a powerful script from Tate Taylor (Winter's Bone); The Help is effective, often humorous, and absolutely delightful. I hope everyone worth their salt can appreciate the beauty of this film.

 Rating: 5 (Maximum of 5)

Attack the Block

    It's not every day that I get to see a UK film. In fact, I can't remember the last UK Film that I've watched in it's entirety. Which is partially why I was so thrilled to see this UK independent sci-fi thriller. Thanks to Gofobo.com, I attended an advanced screening of Attack the Block.

    A dark and often violent film about a gang of inner-city London youths that are forced to fight for their lives amidst an alien invasion. Written and directed by Joe Cornish, Attack the Block is not quite what you would expect from the producers of Shaun of the Dead. The movie begins with a London celebration that I believe is Canada Day (the film does not state). Here we find a gang on South London teenagers patrolling their Block for easy victims to rob. Clearly, up to no good, the story is developed through the interactions between the teenagers and their surroundings. Upon meeting a young woman on the street whom they threaten and mug, a chance event allows her to escape with her life only to have it threatened again repeated throughout the movie.

    Attack the Block is a submission from the Sundance film festival that has received critical acclaim from around the world. While it is new to the US this summer, I implore people see this film for it's ingenuity and bluntness. As human beings, we are as alike as we are different and this movie shows us that regardless of cultural background or nationality we are all the same. Especially when confronted with an invasion of shadowy dark creatures from outer space, we need to stick together and think as one. Easily the best release of the summer, Attack the Block does an excellent job all around.

Rating 4 Stars (Maximum of 5)

Crime, Will-Power, and a Green Lantern

Lately, residents of Chicago may have noticed an increase in petty and violent crimes all across the city and in very public areas. Like many of the people who reside within the city, I viewed the crimes as distant and unfortunate to those who had to experience them. Like most, I held the assumption that I would not be affected. How naive we can be sometimes... A few nights ago, en route to a house-warming party, I bore witness to a violent crime on the Sox-35th Red Line platform. While waiting for the northbound Red Line train, I noticed a young male of Latin/Hispanic origin being chased by a young African American female wielding a bread knife. Uncertain of what I was seeing, it became increasingly clear that the man was genuinely in trouble. Frozen in a state of shock, I watched as the woman proceeded to stab the man repeatedly along the side of his torso. I watched, along with everyone else on the platform in disbelief at what we all were witnessing. 

Within seconds of seeing what I had only read about in the paper, I was on my phone dialing 911. The funny thing about calling the police when in a state of shock is that it's not as easy as one would like to believe. Three simple numbers that we have been trained to recognize and interpret for help could never have been more difficult to execute, especially when in the time of need. The sudden rush of adrenaline caused by fear can paralyze the body and make basic movements like pressing three digits on a touch-screen keypad seem nearly impossible. At long last, after two failed attempts to dial the numbers properly, I managed to regain full dexterity and call the cops.

I was greeted by a calm feminine voice, "9-1-1 Emergency Assistance...," did the voice say anything after that? I cannot be certain. Everything was happening so quickly, that it is difficult to recall. What I do remember is that I quickly detailed what was happening, and where I was located. As this process took place, the young woman fled the scene, running south on the platform toward the 33rd Street exit. The voice on the other end of the phone asked for my name and phone number. I distinctly remember thinking, "Why is that important?! Did I not just tell you everything you need to know?" I realized that it was probably necessary, in case they needed to contact me as a potential witness. The voice on the phone assured me that the police were being dispatched and would be arriving shortly. At that point I disconnected the call, and informed everyone on the platform that the police were on their way. As soon as I made this announcement, a panicked expression flickered across the face of the man who was now visibly bleeding through his over-sized white t-shirt. Within moments, he swore out loud and actually managed to run! I couldn't believe it! Where in hell was he going??? And why was he running in the same direction as the knife-wielding woman??? I was only baffled by this astonishing turn of events for a mere moment before a voice inside my head said that he probably did something to deserve being stabbed by that woman. Slightly puzzled, I shrugged and made a jarring observation; I was the only person to call the police.

        We all hear stories about violent acts being committed in public spaces and how the bystanders only watch... or in some cases pull out their phones to record video of the incident, only to upload it to Facebook or YouTube later. Being faced with the option to act or stand by and watch, you would hope that people would choose to act. Imagine yourself being put into the position of the person who needs help, and no one had the courage or will power to offer you the assistance that you clearly need. The power of will and courage are all it takes to overcome fear and that is the overarching theme of the "Green Lantern".

As an avid comic fan-boy, it is incredibly difficult for me to remain objective when reviewing the increasing number of comic to film adaptations. That being said, I must address the film at hand: "The Green Lantern". Directed by acclaimed director Martin Campbell, The Green Lantern is the story of Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds), a test pilot that receives a ring that grants it's possessor the power to conjure anything that his/her mind can conceive; and is charged with protecting the universe from evil.

Aside from the ingenious casting within this film, the only positive thing that can be said is that nearly 200 million in CGI (computer-generated imagery) looks phenomenal in 3D. This is a film that's all pomp & circumstance, with none of the hard work. The story of Hal Jordan is pitched to us (as viewers) as one where will-power and courage are all that is needed to triumph. Unfortunately, the film does nothing to show us that Hal Jordan lacks anything except a desire to make long term commitments.

Although the film lacks strong foundations, it is redeemed by the graceful Blake Lively who excels in portraying a woman of social and economic power. Her role as a test pilot may not have been believable, but I found it immensely entertaining to watch Lively try in earnest to sell us the fighter pilot image she was forced to pander. Entertaining... is all I can say about the film in the best and worst ways. It was laughable to see how serious the movie tried to present itself to be, but also endearing. My advice to anyone watching The Green Lantern is to do the same thing the people on the platform did on the night of the stabbing. Simply watch and be amazed at the spectacle.

Rating: 2 Stars (Maximum of 5)