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Jodaeiye Nader az Simin (2011)
Absolutely captivating, a flawless film
A gripping, dialogue-driven film about the struggles of two Iranian families, A Separation stands out as one of the best films I've seen in at least two or three years.
At the onset of the film, we have a family being driven apart by the wife's desire to fulfill the family's dream of moving to the United States while her husband wishes to remain in Iran to care for his senile father. However, we are soon spellbound by an enticing, complex story of interpersonal conflicts, legal wranglings, and just a dash of mystery.
Indeed, this is an Iranian film but not necessarily a film about Iran. The themes and questions here are universal, and the storytelling and dialogue transcend culture. That said, Iran provides a unique social milieu for the story to develop, and the setting plays a significant part in the plot itself.
There is nothing terribly novel here. In fact, we are faced with age- old questions: What really is the truth? How do you define justice? What sets A Separation apart is how palpable the conflict feels. Like a friend torn between two quarreling mates, you will find yourself constantly pulled in different directions.
The movie is flawless. It is superbly acted, written tightly, and expertly directed. I would gladly watch this again.
Twin Peaks (1990)
Devolution and Redemption
Much of the nostalgia for Twin Peaks no doubt lies in its more memorable aspects: an eclectic array of characters, a spellbinding plot (at times), and a memorable score. Though I did not watch the show in its original airing, I can safely say that this oft-discussed series is and was clearly overrated.
As others have said, the first dozen or so episodes are the stuff of TV lore. Agent Cooper -- the unquestionable magnet character -- leads an excellent cast through an intriguing murder-mystery plot in a sleepy lumber town. I loved the surreal aspects of the show, the mix of deception and intuition, and the black humor that peppered the initial episodes.
In the early part of the second season, some of the jokes and quirks wear thin. Nonetheless, the underlying plot of finding Laura Palmer's murderer chugs along. Though more distractions arise, there are still plenty of elements to enjoy.
Then Laura Palmer's murderer is ultimately discovered...
Unfortunately, at that point, the series undergoes a serious shift from absurdly entertaining to simply absurd. The episodes feel piece-mealed and reflect an inconsistent direction by the writers and multiple directors and producers. The side stories become nonstories. James makes you want to puke, Ben Horne makes you want to scream, and everything that you loved about the show disappears.
We have some redemption in the final handful of episodes. And believe you me, there is a definite turning point at which you will breathe a sigh of relief as the show returns to form culminating in a thrilling and bizarre finale. In the end though, it's too little too late. And no effort by the writers or directors can make you forget the horrendous drivel that permeated the middle of the second season.
Am I glad I watched the series? Yes. Much of its praise is well earned. Do I regret the seven or eight hours of lost time accounted for by the middle of the second season? Yes, I do.
The series is rightfully praised overall. For those wondering what the fuss is about, I'd probably watch just the first dozen episodes and call it quits when Laura Palmer's murderer is revealed. It's mostly downhill from there. If you want the full Twin Peaks experience, you have to watch to the end. But be prepared for some pretty lame television in late season two.
Heavyweights (1995)
Unassuming "family movie" that provides plenty of laughs
"Heavyweights" is a mid-90's Disney film about a fat camp taken over by the villainous fatboy-turned-success Tony Perkis. While the premise is not so novel, the execution is great and keeps you pretty entertained throughout.
Some of the humor is dated, very 90's-specific. However, there is plenty of timeless, cross-generational humor, and Ben Stiller is absolutely at the top of his game. He would reprise this role many times again in his career: the guy with low self-esteem who becomes an overcompensating jerk. Tom McGowan, who plays a Camp Hope lifer, also plays a solid role and draws many laughs.
Sure, it's another Disney story about underdog kids who end up conquering the odds... or something like that. But Stiller and McGowan are great, and the kids do a pretty admirable too. It's not a must-see movie, but you also won't feel like you wasted your time for having watched it.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
A wasted plot device, wasted characters, and wasted time
Overall, this movie bored me. Surely it was pretty to watch; but for nearly three hours of my time, I wanted a little more.
My biggest gripe is that the screenwriter wasted the most interesting aspect of this movie: a man is born elderly and grows into a child. A life lived in reverse seems the ultimate fantasy, a true curiosity, a source of constant inner conflict. Yet we never see Benjamin grapple with his existence. Instead, as Benjamin's growing younger by the day takes a back seat to the romance between him and Daisy and -- even more unfortunately -- the production value of the film. To take such a brilliant plot concept and perpetually discard it over the course of three hours is simply irritating.
In addition, the use of Hurricane Katrina as a backdrop struck me as gratuitous and unnecessary. I have yet to reconcile the Katrina storyline with the story of Benjamin Button. In fact, the melodrama of Daisy and her daughter in a hospital room strikes me as something you'd fine on "The Bold and the Beautiful."
Overall, this film is pretty disappointing.
THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS FILM: -The cinematography -An outstanding musical score -Make-up, costumes, and set design -Clever flashback scenes
THE DEFICIENCIES: -Character development -A viable plot -Emotion
The Brothers Solomon (2007)
So funny that I watched it twice in a row
I had rather low expectations for this movie based on the IMDb rating. I was more than pleasantly surprised. This movie was extremely funny but does require an outside-the-box sense of humor.
I rarely watch a movie twice in a row (I think Finding Nemo or O Brother Where Art Thou was the last time), but I could not help seeing this one a second time. In fact, I'm getting so excited as I write this review that I may go watch it again.
Before you decide to watch this movie, realize that your enjoyment of The Brothers Solomon will hinder on these qualifications: 1. You probably should already appreciate the work of Will Arnett and Will Forte. 2. You don't care at all about the quality of the plot. 3. You are willing to tolerate the fact that many components of the plot are very unrealistic.
Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Slow down the hype machine, this movie is just plain boring
Let this be the first and last time I mention that my review has nothing to do with ripping apart a 'gay cowboy movie'.
This movie bored me endlessly. First, I think the character development was lacking. Basically, by the movie's end, I felt no closer to any of the main characters. I didn't care about their losses or their tribulations because I never felt like I got to know them. In addition, the direction and cinematography were subpar. The action was slow, the camera shots too swooping, and the emotion forced. There were also many scenes that seemed omissible and pointless.
The acting was OK, although it's difficult to evaluate acting when the characters basically sit with blank stares and don't talk for the entire film. I think Donnie Darko turned in the best performance.
As a love story, this one doesn't hold up. As I mentioned, I didn't care about the characters, no matter what happened to their hapless relationship. Also, very little of the story actually serves to develop Jack and Ennis's love for each other.
I'm not even sure to whom I should recommend this movie. I would compare this movie to that one IFC film in which the old guy drives his tractor across the country to visit his dying brother because he doesn't have his license. What a bore.
Apparently, if you've read the story, this movie captures the spirit well. I advise you just read the story; save yourself the $10 and 2.5 hours.
The Civilization of Maxwell Bright (2005)
Exceptional acting, touching story, and definitely plenty of laughs
I thought this film was nearly flawless.
First of all, the acting was incredible. I had only known Patrick Warburton as Putty from Seinfeld, so I was expecting him to have the same dufusy air about him. However, Patrick really gave the character of Max Bright a great deal of dimension, and I was impressed by his ability to convey subtler feelings later in the film. Marie Matiko, who portrays the female protaginist, was sublime; she played her role perfectly. The supporting cast was not outstanding, but generally each actor gave a convincing performance.
The story was borderline sensational but also captivating. I enjoyed the mild plot twists. The writer/director spoke after the screening I attended, and he said that he had no outline for the script; the story just told itself along the way. This approach shows a little bit, but the movie never seems aimless.
And finally, I laughed a lot. I really came to like the characters, which certainly helped.
Ray (2004)
Subpar movie with good (but not outstanding) work by Jamie Foxx
I would expect that a Best Picture would at least be tolerable and finishable. RAY was neither.
I am not going to completely blast this movie. I certainly acknowledge that Jamie Foxx played the part well, but let's face it: This part was not really that difficult to pull off. All he had to do was close his eyes, smile, and shake around like a cokehead.
One thing that irked me about the movie was that I never found myself caring about the character himself, Ray. In fact I never cared about any of the other characters, his wife, his manager, any of them. On top of that, they were all mediocre actors (cmon, Revenge of the Nerd's Booger as his Atlantic rep?!). Also, I could have done without the extensive flashbacks throughout the movie.
The story basically meanders somewhat chronologically. It is not too episodic, which is good, but it never really hooks you. I really had to force myself to pay attention and eventually turned it off after about an hour. Most of that goes back to how little I cared about the characters.
Face it, this movie would have never been nominated for best picture, Jamie Foxx wouldn't have won best actor, and Ray Charles wouldn't have won so many Grammys for his terrible album if the man didn't die this year. All respect for the dead, but this man is receiving far too much credit at this point.
Apocalypse Now (1979)
Absorbing, thought-provoking, and a little too surreal
APOCALYPSE NOW is a stunning movie, but it's not exactly a war movie.
The cinematography was spectacular. The acting was mighty fine, with Sheen playing is part artfully and masterfully. The story was absorbing.
My only major gripes with this movie are: 1.) it is a little confusing and takes a lot of mulling over to even approach some sort of explanation to the ending ( -- of course, the lack of logical thinking at the end is the point) and 2.) the movie is too surreal and unbelievable, and it exploits the Vietnam War as its backdrop.
I liked PLATOON a lot more than this movie. While both movies examine the loss of innocence and lack of logic in the Vietnam war, PLATOON is more realistic, more touching, and more truthful. Watch PLATOON for a no-nonsense examination of the horrors of war, and watch APOCALYPSE NOW for its cinematic value.
8/10
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Absolutely perfect in every possible way
Please ignore any negative commentary on this movie, as it call comes from the know-it-all dissenters that are against all things good and all things "conformist." Allow them to conform with their fellow "nonconformists"
The movie is terribly perfect.
Acting and characters are awesome. Nicholson truly at his best, no question there. And Fletcher plays her role flawlessly. She's supposed to be a boring, impassive nurse -- duh! The supporting cast is just as deserving of kudos.
Based on a GREAT and classic book, probably one of the few movies that does any justice, along with To Kill A Mockingbird and the Grapes of Wrath.
This movies combines humor with poignancy and emotion. Great dialogue, great script, wonderful direction. Really, you can't complain at all.
10/10 - Far and away the best movie I own
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
A true gem -- the year's best and my new favorite superhero movie
Spiderman 2 - My rating: 9/10
This movie truly had it all and was very entertaining, and I don't usually enjoy overblown Hollywood productions like Spiderman 2.
WHAT WAS GREAT ABOUT THIS MOVIE: 1.) Awesome action - The special effects were incredible. This movie perfectly brings comic book fantasy to life.
2.) Plenty of laughs - This movie could be light-hearted at time, and I found myself laughing out loud on a number of occasions (I should note I was one of the few brave enough to laugh out loud at the corny humor).
3.) Characters we care about - See note below about dialogue... the characters were a little corny too, but the viewer cannot help but become emotionally invested. Very well done.
4.) Strong story - While predictable (what action hero movie isn't?), the story had enough twists and suspence to keep me interested. Good pacing too: the movie flows well from scene to scene.
IN RESPONSE TO MAJOR COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS MOVIE: 1.) Of course the dialogue and script are trite. Ever read a comic book? (Note: Spiderman is originally a comic book character) This movie never purports itself as intelligent... and...
2.) In some respects, the superhero movie has "been done before." This movie takes the action to new levels and brings new levels of emotion to this often bland genre.
A FINAL STUPID COMMENT THAT GIVES ME LESS CREDIBILITY: Spiderman 2 or The Passion of the Christ? This movie is peppered with references to Christ and Christianity, at least I thought so... Spiderman is the symbol of self-sacrifice (like Christ) -- see if you can spot what I mean.
Ok, awesome movie, and I really mean it. 9/10
Shrek 2 (2004)
A less entertaining, more adult-oriented version of the original
**ONE JOKE SPOILER**
As a disclaimer, I would like to point out that I found the original "Shrek" movie to be very entertaining (I'd give it an 8/10).
However, this movie, "Shrek 2", really pales in comparison, and it is certainly not deserving of the record-breaking sales it did at the box office.
Despite what you've heard, this movie IS NOT as funny as the first. The humor is sitcom-esque, overall pretty predictable. While the references to pop culture and classic movies are fun, they're not laugh out loud funny. How many times do we have to see a parody of Dustin Hoffman pounding on the chapel glass in "The Graduate" before it gets old? (I seem to remember Mike Myers already using this gag in Wayne's World 2)
Additionally, the characters are not as dynamic as in the original movie. I know that sounds silly for a cartoon, but the first movie demonstrated better writing and character development.
The plot was inferior, and the movie dragged at times. Again, predictability seemed to be the greatest vice of the movie.
Finally, the movie was more intentionally adult-oriented, which actually diminished its charm and its quality.
If you're bored, you may find this flick worthy of watching in the theatres. I recommend waiting for the home video.
5/10
Monster (2003)
Outstanding acting + tight story = RARE CINEMATIC SUCCESS
Rarely in films can the acting be so true to life that you flat out forget you are watching a movie. Theron turns in a truly unforgettable performance in "Monster". Ricci is as convincing as Theron, but her role is certainly bolstered by Theron's. Not only is the acting good, but we actually grow to care about the tragic protagonists.
This is the best film in the past five years (probably since "American Beauty"). It is so charged with emotion that you'll probably need a drink after it's over. The story is gripping -- due in part to the acting, but also largely due to the seamless storyline.
This movie will appeal to open-minded people seeking an intensely emotional and personal movie. The drama is good and never sensationalized -- a down-to-earth, unpretentious masterpiece.
Surely a "MUST SEE" for the new millennium. 9/10
Mystic River (2003)
Mildly thrilling, but too convoluted and overblown to enjoy
My girlfriend and I rented this movie based on the critical acclaim it received and the reputation of the cast and director. We were both rather disappointed.
I do give credit to the movie in that it is quite suspenseful, intriguing, and by and large well-acted. The storyline, camera shots, acting, and overall direction of the movie contribute to its suspense, making it rather thrilling. Once the viewer gets into the movie, he or she will surely want to watch it closely till the very end.
The acting was impressive, although not Oscar-worthy (i.e. Sean Penn). Penn plays an ex-con, Jimmy, whose daughter has been killed. At times, Penn goes over the top -- his acting is true to life but not as appropriate for the cinema. Tim Robbins was OUTSTANDING. The rest of the supporting cast was good as well.
However, the suspense and acting could not save this poor screenplay. I found the story confusing and utterly unbelievable. The writer appears to have tried to cram too much story into 138 minutes. The movie tries to tell too much of everybody's past -- good writing could have shortened the movie by a solid 45 minutes and made it even more gripping.
Countless plot twists ultimately diminish the effect of suspense and irony. At times, the dialogue is bland, and the initially dynamic characters regress into hackneyed caricatures.
A movie that starts strong but truly falls apart -- 4/10.
Goodfellas (1990)
Gripping story, but *slightly* overrated
First of all, I own this movie on DVD, which says a lot, since I'm not very inclined to spend $15 to buy but would rather spend $4 to rent.
This movie is truly impressive. The story is strong; the characters are memorable. The acting is superb -- Pesci steals the show, but DeNiro and "protaginist" Liotta are subtly outstanding.
"Goodfellas" keeps a strong pace and will not leave you bored. If you are at all intrigued by organized crime, this glamorous view of mafia life will keep you all the more entertained. The violence is not too intentionally gory (see "Scarface" or "Reservoir Dogs" if you are looking for senseless death). Instead, it is tasteful and powerful.
I will point out the movie's only real shortcoming: a bit too much narration. Obviously, the narration is important for those of us that understand mob life, but it can be tedious at times.
Overall, an essential drama about organized crime that has interesting themes and tones. I say a MUST SEE, 8.5/10
Memento (2000)
Plenty to praise about this thriller
When I first saw Memento in the theatre, I was blown away by the movie. Obviously, as many commenters in this forum agree, the movie is twisted and requires a lot of thought to try to "figure it out".
After a few weeks, I changed my mind -- Memento wasn't as good as I thought.
I realized what had blown me away was the creativity and the story, but no other aspect of the movie really stood out to me.
When I purchased the DVD and gave the movie a few more watches, I changed my mind again. This movie is **absolutely brilliant** in almost every possible way. Much of this brilliance is often overlooked --> 1.) The subtle, dark humor -- You can pretty quickly overlook the humor if you get too wrapped up in trying to figure out the plot. 2.) The directing and scene sequencing 3.) The acting -- Don't fault the actors for the one-dimensional characters (characters are the only glaring flaw). 4.) The dialogue - Again, something easily overlooked.
If you have only seen this movie once, and you're sitting on the fence, see it again. This movie will probably entertain you the first time, but it might require a few additional viewings for full appreciation (and to finally figure out what the hell is going on!)
9/10
Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Emotionally charged, superb acting, too much dialogue.
Although written before Tarantino's other blockbusters, I saw this movie after seeing the Kill Bills, Pulp Fiction, and Jackie Brown. I was disappointed; this movie is clearly inferior to all the aforementioned titles.
The acting was superb, and the actors really breathed life into the hackneyed dialogue and saved an otherwise mediocre movie. Tarantino's other scripts are wittier and sharper. If you are looking for a riveting tale of distrust and greed, watch this movie. If you are hoping for clever dialogue and moments of comic relief, you won't find them in Reservoir Dogs.
The emotion of the movie builds in a void of real action. Depending on your taste in movies, the excessive dialogue may bore you at times. One of the classic rules of a screenplay is to show what happened rather than having characters describe it. Consider Tarantino a rule-breaker in that respect.
The overall story, characters, set designs, etc. are simpler than other Tarantino movies I have seen. Compared to the standard Hollywood crime drama, this movie fares well, but certainly should not be considered a classic. Rent the Usual Suspects or LA Confidential instead. I give it a 5 on the Tarantino scale and a 7 for my IMDB score.