Best Films Of 2014
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- DirectorJ.C. ChandorStarsOscar IsaacJessica ChastainDavid OyelowoIn New York City 1981, an ambitious immigrant fights to protect his business and family during the most dangerous year in the city's history.This is a pretty great crime drama. Don't let the title fool you however, it is more of a crime drama than a film of violence and action.
8.5/10 - DirectorSeth GrossmanStarsRoss PattersonJessie WisemanSeth GrossmanWhen Ross is diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and given six weeks to live, his newly engaged older brother Seth offers to spend his $50,000 wedding fund on a final trip of a lifetime. Their plans are complicated when Ross invites a call girl to join the group and Seth's uptight fiancée insists on tagging along. This raucous road trip comedy features hip-hop star Asher Roth.Simply an amazing film on a small budget. Definitely similar to The Bucket List but this film looks a lot closer and deeply into impending death and in turn, the glory of life as well. 8.5/10
- DirectorMorten TyldumStarsBenedict CumberbatchKeira KnightleyMatthew GoodeDuring World War II, the English mathematical genius Alan Turing tries to crack the German Enigma code with help from fellow mathematicians while attempting to come to terms with his troubled private life.Essentially this is just another story of how one very smart guy was screwed over by the powers that be, even though he did something great to help them and others. It's an all too familiar story in that sense, but this film is well delivered in every regard; The direction, the script, the acting, everything comes together well here. It's a great story, but one that only made me even more disgusted at manipulative and selfish people by the end of it. Still, a must see film. 8.5/10
- DirectorDoug LimanStarsTom CruiseEmily BluntBill PaxtonA soldier fighting aliens gets to relive the same day over and over again, the day restarting every time he dies.To me this film was surprisingly enough, actually funnier than Cruises last comedy, Knight & Day. I didn't care much for that film, but Edge Of Tomorrow is a very welcome addition to the sci-fi genre. I enjoyed it so much, I felt like I didn't care if the end was going to come anytime soon. They could have made this film longer in my view, and it would have been just as good or maybe even better. I can honestly say that Edge of Tomorrow ranks up there with the very best sci-fi films since the turn of the century. I did see it in 3D, and I felt the 3D didn't really add anything great to the film, but that really seems to be the case with all the newer 3D films. The only film I've ever seen in which the 3D actually did add something extra special to the film, was Avatar. Personally I think the 3D fad can mostly be chalked up as another Hollywood gimmick that really does nothing at all, except add extra cost to tickets, and extra in their pockets of course. This film itself however is not a gimmick, it's solid action sci-fi that even does have some real thought provoking moments. There is even a nod to Mr.Kubrick in the film. Do yourself a favor and check this out. 8/10
- DirectorNoah BuschelStarsCorey StollBilly CrudupMarin IrelandA down-on-his-luck former boxing champ is forced to make a choice between friendship and ambition when he is framed for murder.A knockout! This film is truly worth a look for anyone who enjoys a gritty film. Only 778 people have rated this film on here, and going by the rating so far I'd estimate most of them to be out to lunch. Watch it! 8/10
- DirectorDan GilroyStarsJake GyllenhaalRene RussoBill PaxtonWhen Louis Bloom, a con man desperate for work, muscles into the world of L.A. crime journalism, he blurs the line between observer and participant to become the star of his own story.Edgy, thought provoking cinema. 8/10
- DirectorClint EastwoodStarsBradley CooperSienna MillerKyle GallnerNavy S.E.A.L. sniper Chris Kyle's pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend. Back home with his family after four tours of duty, however, Chris finds that it is the war he can't leave behind.It's hard to believe that a director in his mid-80's is still making films this good. I can't say that I loved everything about American Sniper, but I loved a lot of it. I can't understand any of the supposed controversy around this film either, as there is really no major slant one way or the other, this shows one man's view of things and that's it. It doesn't try to paint the view as good or bad really, it's just one sniper's way of seeing things(The war, Iraq, the U.S.A., etc), end of story. 8/10
- DirectorJim MickleStarsMichael C. HallSam ShepardDon JohnsonWhen a protective father meets a murderous ex-con, both need to deviate from the path they are on as they soon find themselves entangled in a downwards spiral of lies and violence while having to confront their own inner psyche.It's actually quite hilarious to read many of the reviews on this film here on this site. So many people claim that there is this big unexplained hole in the film, and they often go into great detail about it. All the while the answer to their issue in the film is entirely explained. Yes, there are some plotlines in the film that are not followed right to the end a person could say. However the reason is much like in the film Sicario or End Of Watch for instance. It's far too big for them to do anything about some of the things they find out, unless of course they had a full on death wish. This should all be quite obvious to the audience. However reading the reviews here, you find that sometimes even very simple and obvious things are far too much for many to comprehend. Anyway, it's good for a laugh, but at the same time, I find myself unable to not feel at least some compassion for these somewhat delusional people. How do they even find their way out of their house in the morning to begin with? Lol! But yes, it's also quite funny at the same time.
Anyhow, I do agree the film is far from perfect in all aspects, however the story is strong, and the filmmaking here is very strong. If you like a good thriller and you're not too squeamish, give it a shot. 8/10 - DirectorDavid AyerStarsBrad PittShia LaBeoufLogan LermanA grizzled tank commander makes tough decisions as he and his crew fight their way across Germany in April, 1945.While many have complained about the final battle scene being silly, I didn't find it so bad. Obviously it was a little overdone, but I think there was a point to that, and it worked fine for the sake of entertainment and in what the film is about. Going down swinging is what true hardened warriors would do, and that's the point in the final battle scene. The rest of the film, the entire lead up to the final battle itself is the greatest part of the film. Especially how it showed the true fact that almost everyone who is involved in war becomes at least somewhat crazy. There is a lot of truth here in my estimation, and deep truth that few like to admit or even talk about because it's far outside the comfort zone. 8/10
- DirectorEskil VogtStarsEllen Dorrit PetersenHenrik RafaelsenVera VitaliForsaken in a new Oslo apartment, a frail blind woman battles to come to terms with her condition, as she slowly retracts into an elaborate fantasy bubble. Are her stories fanning her suspicions, or is this what total blindness looks like?
- StarsLouie AndersonChip BolcikTodd BoydSurvey the profound and enduring influence of one of the greatest American comics of all time.
- DirectorRichard LinklaterStarsEllar ColtranePatricia ArquetteEthan HawkeThe life of Mason, from early childhood to his arrival at college.
- DirectorHerman YauStarsCharlene ChoiSimon YamRyan LauSara involved in an investigation and her editor afraid of offending powerful politicians and businessmen, against it. Sara exiles herself to Thailand. There She meets child prostitute Dok-my and Sara becomes haunted by her memories.
- DirectorNeil BurgerStarsShailene WoodleyTheo JamesKate WinsletIn a world divided by factions based on virtues, Tris learns she's Divergent and won't fit in. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Four must find out what makes Divergents dangerous before it's too late."Don't Try To Define Me"
I have to say that the producers would have to be stupid not to use Burger again as the director. He did such a great job with this one. I thought I was going to see a film that was mostly aimed at teens. However the story alone makes this far superior to most teen oriented films. In fact this didn't feel much like a teen film at all. The fantasy story is a great metaphor for our current society, it's simply a very relevant film. The directing here was spot on. The story as fun as it is, does have a few holes, sure, but they are easy to look over because they are such small holes; And Burger manages to pace the film with near perfection. The film simply works as a commentary piece on political philosophy, and as an entertaining action film laced with some romantic tension. In my view this film was far, far superior to the very teen oriented and very one dimensional Hunger Games, and it's certainly more unique as well. Woodley is impressive here, clearly showing the ability to play a very layered and complex character. 8/10
Update: As I understand it, the producers have cheaped out now that they have a big hit on there hands and decided to go with a much lesser director. Not a surprising move given Hollywood's historical track record, but disappointing for sure. Here's me betting that 'Insurgent' won't be nearly as fun of a film as this one. Boo on these cheap ass producers! - DirectorMichaël R. RoskamStarsTom HardyNoomi RapaceJames GandolfiniBob Saginowski finds himself at the center of a robbery gone awry and entwined in an investigation that digs deeply into the neighborhood's past where friends, families, and foes all work together to make a living--no matter the cost.Nice to see Gandolfini go out with a good film. This is definitely worth checking out if you're into crime films at all. There is a good dose of humor and mystery in this film that make it easy to enjoy. Not a masterpiece, but definitely a really good film. 7.5/10
- DirectorMichael BerryStarsEd HarrisEva LongoriaMichael PeñaA former Arizona sheriff's wife is killed while riding on their ranch property. It would appear a Mexican man illegally crossing into the US is at fault. As the former and the current sheriff search for answers, lives are changed forever.A very relevant and worthwhile watch. The acting is good. The story is complex, deep and without a perfect solution, and so goes life on earth, and that's exactly what this film really hits you with. There are no perfect solutions to many of our problems, and also that innocently intended pranks can sometimes result in drastic and irreversible consequences. A very realistically minded film that will make you think and feel, either that or its realism will just scare you even further back into your already well zombified state. 7.5/10
- DirectorNeil DalalJillian ElizabethStarsDayananda SaraswatiFollow a group of students and their teacher as they confront fundamental questions about the nature of reality and self-identity at a remote forest ashram in southern India.
- DirectorRaymond De FelittaStarsMichael PittNina AriandaAndy GarciaA Queens couple who specialize in robbing mafia social clubs stumble upon a score bigger than they could ever imagine, becoming targets of both the mob and the FBI in the process.
- DirectorMichael SpierigPeter SpierigStarsEthan HawkeSarah SnookNoah TaylorAs his last assignment, a temporal agent is tasked to travel back in time and prevent a bomb attack in New York in 1975. The hunt, however, turns out to be beyond the bounds of possibility.This film is being advertized wrong in my opinion. If you go into it thinking it's a sci-fi action film, you will likely be at least somewhat disappointed. This is definitely not an action film, it's a sci-fi drama in truth, an interesting one with a very thought provoking story. The acting is also very good. If you are looking for a simple and clean film, this is not for you. This is a mind bender of extreme proportions. 7.5/10
- DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesMichael NyqvistAlfie AllenAn ex-hitman comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters who killed his dog and stole his car.Are You Afraid Of The Boogeyman?
This film has some of the slickest, and best executed action scenes and choreography of any I've seen. This film would make John Woo say woo! It's fairly simple story-wise, but the backdrop is well thought out and delivered. The film is both well written and fun at the same time. Most of the theater crowd was laughing a good bit for the first half of the film and gasping and oooing during the second half. I expected The Equalizer to be the better action film this year, boy was I wrong! You may say "what about Edge Of Tomorrow?", but that's more of a sci-fi film as opposed to a straight up action flick like J.Wick and The Equalizer. 7.5/10 - DirectorMatt ReevesStarsGary OldmanKeri RussellAndy SerkisThe fragile peace between apes and humans is threatened as mistrust and betrayal threaten to plunge both tribes into a war for dominance over the Earth.After 'Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes', I wasn't all that interested to even see this film. I didn't mind Rise, but to me it was no better than a 6 out of 10 at best; It's nothing special. With all the good reviews and people raving about this film however, I thought well I'll give this franchise another shot, and boy was it worth it. This film is far superior to Rise in my view. There are a few parts that could have been done better here, but mainly this film is very solid writing wise and very entertaining. The film develops it's characters, especially many of the apes far better than most action films these days as well. The lead up to war here is done extremely well for the most part. To me this film is one of the great surprises of the year. 7.5/10
- DirectorLuc BessonStarsScarlett JohanssonMorgan FreemanChoi Min-sikA woman, accidentally caught in a dark deal, turns the tables on her captors and transforms into a merciless warrior evolved beyond human logic.What Is The Limit Of Your Imagination?
In my view this is the best film Besson has directed since 1997's The Fifth Element. The film in certain ways is a lot like Limitless, but at the same time it takes a very different overall approach and look on the subject of human evolution. I'm sure that many people will not care much for this film since it is filled with a lot of mystical/spiritual references and ideas and even some false science, however those with an open mind and an active imagination will likely be very glad they saw the film. This is clearly a work of fiction people, but there is no one saying you can't relate fiction to reality either, and actually learn something from it once in a while too. Our limitless imaginations are part of what makes human beings so extraordinary, we are best off using this gift and appreciating it. Fictional films can still be very thought provoking, and this one definitely fits that category. 2001: A Space Odyssey isn't scientifically accurate in many ways to our current knowledge, but it's still a monster landmark of a film nonetheless. Lucy is certainly not 2001, however they both ride that same imagination rules line that can spark the internal fires of unique creative thinking. In my view Lucy is a sci-fi trip worth taking. 7.5/10 - DirectorJoe CarnahanStarsPatrick WilsonEd HelmsJames Badge DaleA hard-luck limo driver struggles to go straight and pay off a debt to his bookie. He takes on a job with a crazed passenger, whose sought-after ledger implicates some seriously dangerous criminals.A little far out for sure, but this is a comedy. The film reminded me a bit of The Hangover except, it was actually more consistently funny in my view. 7.5/10
- DirectorJon FavreauStarsJon FavreauRobert Downey Jr.Scarlett JohanssonA head chef quits his restaurant job and buys a food truck in an effort to reclaim his creative promise, while piecing back together his estranged family.A very good surprise. The film hits all the right notes between food, music and family, though it could be considered a little raunchy at times for some people's taste. 7.5/10
- DirectorNoah BaumbachStarsBen StillerNaomi WattsAdam DriverA middle-aged couple's career and marriage are overturned when a disarming young couple enters their lives.
- DirectorPaul BettanyStarsAdolfo Mendez-NouelAnthony MackieKevin Arnold HoffmanHannah and Tahir fall in love while homeless on the streets of New York. Shelter explores how they got there, and as we learn about their pasts we realize they need each other to build a future.A gritty film with heart. This was somewhat of a passion project from the husband and wife team of Paul Bettany & Jennifer Connelly. It's actually a wonderfully down to earth and somewhat brutal look at down and desperate people. It's nice to see something quite genuine and very compassionate like this coming from two such accomplished film artists really. Few Hollywood films ever even come close to touching this type of honesty. I mean Connelly herself has been somewhat of a star since her teens, that's decades ago now, but somehow her feet have never seemed all that far off the ground. Bravo!
- DirectorJoseph HahnStarsJames FrechevilleCameron MonaghanRon YuanThe lives of five disaffected suburbanites come together at a shopping mall in the wake of one man's shooting spree.Based on a novel by Eric Bogosian. Partially written for the screen by none other than Vincent D'Onofrio, who also has a role in the film. Personally I found this film to be far better than its rating here on this site. Gina Gershon gives quite a great performance and the film is simply thought provoking. It's an interesting film in my view, and one that still has gotten so little exposure. 7.5/10
- DirectorJohn StockwellStarsJonathan Daniel BrownKenny WormaldAaron YooAn eighteen year old high school drop out and his twenty-seven year old friend start trafficking marijuana across the border of Canada in order to make money and their lives are changed forever.Basically this is a much lower budget marijuana version of the 2001 film 'Blow'. There's no Johnny Depp or Ray Liotta, but overall the acting here is pretty solid. It actually does boast some very good performances from a few Hollywood vets, Ron Perlman, Christina Cox and John C. McGinley. Overall the film is fun, interesting and funny if you're not overly against the bud. In fact this is in my view, one of the better pot based films you'll find. Very few marijuana based films also claim to be true as this one does. 7.5
- DirectorJason StoneStarsSusan SarandonGil BellowsEllen BurstynDetective Hazel Micallef hasn't had much to worry about in the sleepy town of Fort Dundas until a string of gruesome murders in the surrounding countryside brings her face to face with a serial killer driven by a higher calling.There are a few really badly done typical Hollywood moments in this film. Aside from those few moments however, I really did mostly enjoy this story, and Sarandon's performance here in my view is honestly among her very finest.
- DirectorJulius AveryStarsEwan McGregorBrenton ThwaitesAlicia VikanderJR busts out of prison with Brendan Lynch, Australia's most notorious criminal, and joins Lynch's gang for a gold heist that soon pits the two men against one another.There are some great moments in this film. The scenes from inside the jail are tense and very well done. The film does become somewhat predictable after a while however and loses some of its intensity because of this. Mostly a good film though. 7.5/10
- DirectorAngus MacLachlanStarsPaul SchneiderMelanie LynskeyAnna CampWhen his wife unexpectedly informs him that she wants a divorce, well-meaning but oblivious husband Otto Wall finds himself thrust back into bachelorhood, where he searches for the real thing amidst a string of one night stands.In my view Angus MacLachlan is a writer/director to keep an eye on. The main reason being is that all of his films that I've seen so far are quite unique, and in some ways, quite brilliant. You may notice that every film he has written so far is rated in the 5's on IMDb with the one exception being 'Junebug' (2005). However you also may take note that the critics like his films a lot more than the average voter on this site. Some of MacLachlan's ideas are too subtle for the average film viewer and some of his ideas are far too thought provoking or profound for the masses. However if you're a lover of thought provoking films, or are looking for films that are not just standard fair, I recommend checking his films out. 'Junebug' or 'Stone' however are better MacLachlan films to start with. Check this one out afterwards if you like those two. 7/10
- DirectorDavid LynchStarsChris IsaakKiefer SutherlandC.H. EvansTwin Peaks before Twin Peaks (1990) and at the same time not always and entirely in the same place as Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992). A feature film which presents deleted scenes from Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992) assembled together for the first time in an untold portion of the story's prequel.You really can't enjoy watching this without seeing the original T.V. series first, so don't try. 7/10
- DirectorAnthony RussoJoe RussoStarsChris EvansSamuel L. JacksonScarlett JohanssonAs Steve Rogers struggles to embrace his role in the modern world, he teams up with a fellow Avenger and S.H.I.E.L.D agent, Black Widow, to battle a new threat from history: an assassin known as the Winter Soldier.In my view, this is so far one of the best Marvel films. 7/10
- DirectorFrank Hall GreenStarsElla PurnellBrian GeraghtyDiane FarrAfter conditions in her new home become unbearable, a teenage girl runs away and befriends an older man preparing for a hike through the Alaskan wilderness.
- DirectorEvan GoldbergSeth RogenStarsJames FrancoSeth RogenRandall ParkDave Skylark and his producer Aaron Rapaport run the celebrity tabloid show "Skylark Tonight". When they land an interview with a surprise fan, North Korean dictator Jong-Un Kim, they are recruited by the CIA to assassinate him.My favorite Rogen film yet. With most of his films (Whether just as an actor or a writer too.), I like some parts and don't care much for other parts. This one was more consistent in the laugh department for me than any other film I've seen him in to date. Even with the over played trailer that gave away so much of the films plot, it still works well in full scope. 7/10
- DirectorTheodore MelfiStarsBill MurrayMelissa McCarthyNaomi WattsA young boy whose parents have just divorced finds an unlikely friend and mentor in the misanthropic, bawdy, hedonistic war veteran who lives next door.
- DirectorClint EastwoodStarsJohn Lloyd YoungErich BergenMichael LomendaThe story of four young men from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who came together to form the iconic 1960s rock group The Four Seasons.Another solid outing for Clint. 7/10
- DirectorBill PohladStarsJohn CusackPaul DanoElizabeth BanksIn the 60s, Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson struggles with emerging psychosis as he attempts to craft his avant-garde pop masterpiece. In the 80s, he's a broken, confused man under the 24-hour watch of shady therapist, Dr. Eugene Landy.An interesting glimpse into the life of Brian Wilson and his music, but it really only left me wishing I could get a much closer view. The film sort of feels like it only touches the surface of Brian for the most part. Nonetheless, I feel the film is worth a look for most people. 6.5/10
- DirectorDavid DobkinStarsRobert Downey Jr.Robert DuvallVera FarmigaBig-city lawyer Hank Palmer returns to his childhood home where his father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder. Hank sets out to discover the truth; along the way he reconnects with his estranged family.It's a good film, but it has its share of flaws too. Not quite as good as I was hoping for, but good nonetheless. 6.5/10
- DirectorWoody AllenStarsColin FirthEmma StoneMarcia Gay HardenA romantic comedy about an Englishman brought in to help unmask a possible swindle. Personal and professional complications ensue.Another fun romp from Mr. Allen, but certainly not wholly as fun as his best work. 6.5/10
- DirectorUwe BollStarsBrendan FletcherLochlyn MunroMike DopudA man takes over a TV station and holds a number of hostages as a political platform to awaken humanity, instead of money.I felt the first Rampage really wasn't too bad, so I gave this a chance and wow! It's actually quite thought provoking as well as entertaining, even though it's also somewhat silly at times it really does have enough here to make it work in my view. Somehow or another I'd say I definitely even enjoyed this Uwe Boll action film more than Denzel's Equalizer. This is by far the best Boll film I've seen yet, though that really isn't saying much is it? Lol! 6.5/10
- DirectorKristian LevringStarsMads MikkelsenEva GreenJeffrey Dean MorganIn 1870s America, the fury of a notorious gang leader is unleashed when a peaceful American settler avenges the death of his family. Then as his cowardly fellow townspeople betray him, he is forced to hunt down the outlaws alone.A very typical western in many, many ways. Nonetheless, it's still a pretty good watch as the execution is very good, and many of the characters are interesting. 6.5/10
- DirectorAntoine FuquaStarsDenzel WashingtonMarton CsokasChloë Grace MoretzA man who believes he has put his mysterious past behind him cannot stand idly by when he meets a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters.Welcome to 'The Black Rambo'
Fairly solid action scenes, characters and overall execution. Somehow the filmmakers and actors make this very hard to believe film enjoyable. This is definitely a sensationalistic film(The most sensationalistic of Washington's career without a doubt.), and it's mostly a regurgitated cookie cutter crowd pleaser of violent vengeance as well, but it does manage to remain an entertaining action film at the same time. Even though it has a running time of over two hours, the film does feel overall as though it is missing a few key scenes, but nonetheless it's still worth a look if you're into these kinds of films. The movie didn't remind me much at all of the old T.V. series of the same name. The film is much more reminiscent of some of the old brutally violent morality tales that Charles Broson use to do. All that said, this basically chalks up as a good film to watch when you don't want to think much, and you just want to watch a lot of kick ass entertaining violence. It's that kind of guilty pleasure. 6.5/10 - DirectorDavid AyerStarsArnold SchwarzeneggerSam WorthingtonTerrence HowardMembers of an elite DEA task force find themselves being taken down one by one after they rob a drug cartel safe house.There are a couple of really cheesy moments here, but overall it's a well paced and fairly interesting action film that keeps you entertained. I've long had an attraction to Olivia Williams as well, so that may have made me like it a little more. (Shrugs) 6.5/10
- DirectorDavid Robert MitchellStarsMaika MonroeKeir GilchristOlivia LuccardiA young woman is followed by an unknown supernatural force after a sexual encounter.Not as good as its hype from my standpoint, but it wasn't bad either, especially for a horror film with a 2 million dollar budget. A decent film, but nothing too special in my view. 6.5/10
- DirectorDaniel BarberStarsBrit MarlingHailee SteinfeldSam WorthingtonLeft without men in the dying days of the American Civil War, three women must fight to defend their home and themselves from two rogue soldiers who have broken off from the fast-approaching Union Army.
- DirectorMcGStarsKevin CostnerHailee SteinfeldConnie NielsenA dying CIA agent trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter is offered an experimental drug that could save his life in exchange for one last assignment.Sure, there are a few parts that are a little hard to buy, but overall it's a well paced action film with a couple of pretty good characters and some really funny moments. If you love action films, you'll definitely feel it's worth a watch. 6.5/10
- DirectorHossein AminiStarsViggo MortensenKirsten DunstOscar IsaacA thriller centered on a con artist, his wife, and a stranger who flee Athens after one of them is caught up in the death of a private detective.6.5/10
- DirectorJason MomoaStarsJason MomoaRobert Homer MollohanLisa BonetWolf, a Native American on the run after avenging his mother's murder, flees across the desolate American West on his motorcycle, where he'll discover that justice has a cost.
- DirectorAndrea Di StefanoStarsBenicio Del ToroJosh HutchersonClaudia TraisacIn Colombia, a young surfer meets the woman of his dreams - and then meets her uncle, Pablo Escobar.
- DirectorHenrik Ruben GenzStarsJames FrancoKate HudsonTom WilkinsonDiscovering a stash of cash in their dead tenant's apartment, a couple in debt take the money and find themselves the target of a deadly adversary - the thief who stole it.
- DirectorMatt ShakmanStarsMichael StuhlbargBruce DernJohn MalkovichA young man's life is unraveled after witnessing a murder that he filmed in his rural town of Cut Bank.6.5/10
- DirectorGreg FrancisStarsBeau MirchoffRon PerlmanGiancarlo EspositoWhen a new detective is caught by a vicious psychopath and locked in a basement, he must use the knowledge he learned from some of the best detectives at Poker Night, then match wits against his captor.A flawed but yet very interesting and pretty entertaining crime thriller. A must see for all lovers of crime films. 6/10
- DirectorLynn SheltonStarsKeira KnightleyChloë Grace MoretzSam RockwellIn the throes of a quarter-life crisis, Megan panics when her boyfriend proposes. She takes an opportunity to escape for a week, hiding out in the house of her new 16-year-old friend Annika and her world-weary single dad.Saw this in the theatre and no one else was there except for my girlfriend, but it really is worth a watch for many. 6/10
- DirectorWes AndersonStarsRalph FiennesF. Murray AbrahamMathieu AmalricA writer encounters the owner of an aging high-class hotel, who tells him of his early years serving as a lobby boy in the hotel's glorious years under an exceptional concierge.Fairly creative and funny at times, but I just never see the point in Wes Anderson films. Pretty much all of his films seem long and pointless and overall lack any real flow or reason or even consistent entertainment value. He does odd things just for the sake of being odd. The oddness is not genuine. To me this is far too forced to be considered really good. Perhaps if his films actually made us think or experience or face something deep within, then the oddity of it all would be well worth the ride. Personally I think most people who do like his films a lot are just so bored with the tired formulas we see in most Hollywood films, that Wes' films seem somehow brilliant to them. However honestly, what is brilliant about a single aspect of any of his films? I love odd films, but only if the oddness has some reason to it or at least direction to it. Here it is just aimless Anderson yet again. It's definitely an entertaining film at times, but not nearly enough to watch more than once or twice tops in my view.
- DirectorAte de JongStarsEdward AkroutMatt BarberMegan MaczkoA stranger breaks into the house of a couple, ties up the husband and, having a whole weekend at his hand, plays a slow game with the woman, a game of threats, fear, obedience - and intimacy.This is a drastically underrated film on IMDb. If it sounds interesting to you, you'll probably like it. Pay no attention to the rating here. While the film does have flaws, it really is for the most part a good film. 6/10
- DirectorPaul Thomas AndersonStarsJoaquin PhoenixJosh BrolinOwen WilsonIn 1970, drug-fueled Los Angeles private investigator Larry "Doc" Sportello investigates the disappearance of a former girlfriend.It's worth a viewing, but really this is much like a slightly toned down detective reversion of Fear & Loathing In Las Vegas. We could just call this Fear & Loathing In Los Angeles and call it a companion piece. A fairly disappointing effort from Paul Thomas Anderson if you ask me. In fact I've seen nearly all of Anderson's films now and to me, this is the worst of the lot. Oh, and did I mention that overall Gilliam's Fear & Loathing In Las Vegas is also a much better film? 6/10
- DirectorThomas CarterStarsJim CaviezelAlexander LudwigMichael ChiklisThe journey of legendary football coach Bob Ladouceur, who took the De La Salle High School Spartans from obscurity to a 151-game winning streak that shattered all records for any American sport.
- DirectorSophia CacciolaMichael J. EpsteinStarsJade SylvanMolly CarlisleMolly DevonTen women find themselves in a vacant mansion on Spektor Island in December, 1972. Each believes she's traveled to the house on business, but they all agree that something seems strange. For one thing, the entire house is full of pictures and statues of pigs. The women all come from drastically different walks of life. None of them would have chosen to spend the night together in such an eerie place, but the last ferry for the mainland has just left, and a terrible storm is rolling in. Trying to make the best of an unpleasant situation, they raid the mansion's wine cellar and throw a party. As the night creeps on, however, it becomes clear that someone--or something--has lied to get them in the house. It's not long before someone mentions that Spektor Island is supposed to be haunted. Of course, no one in the house believes in ghosts. At least, not until the first murder. What do an actress, a religious zealot, a renegade, a coed, a model, a singer, a medium, a real-estate investor, a historian, and a doctor have in common? None of them is who they seem. Yet, the fate of the entire world may rest in their hands.There are some moments of brilliance in this film, as well as some pretty bad acting and technically the sound is quite horrible at times. Somehow I still found this somewhat spiritually aware film, worth the watch.
- DirectorPatrick BriceStarsKatie AseltonPatrick BriceMark DuplassA young videographer answers an online ad for a one-day job in a remote town to record the last messages of a dying man. When he notices the man's odd behavior, he starts to question his intentions.
- DirectorClaudia LlosaStarsJennifer ConnellyCillian MurphyMélanie LaurentA struggling mother encounters the son she abandoned 20 years earlier.
- DirectorDamien ChazelleStarsMiles TellerJ.K. SimmonsMelissa BenoistA promising young drummer enrolls at a cut-throat music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor who will stop at nothing to realize a student's potential.A celebration of idiocy. The music and overall filmmaking itself is great however, especially considering the budget. The two lead roles are well played and the editing is great. The writing however is nonsense for the most part, so of course, he's destined for Hollywood for certain. 6/10
- DirectorFrancis LawrenceStarsJennifer LawrenceJosh HutchersonLiam HemsworthKatniss Everdeen is in District 13 after she shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta and a nation moved by her courage.
- DirectorWes BallStarsDylan O'BrienKaya ScodelarioWill PoulterThomas is deposited in a community of boys after his memory is erased, soon learning they're all trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with fellow "runners" for a shot at escape.This is one of the hardest films to rate out of all that I've ever seen and tried to rate. Mainly because the film leaves so many possibilities open regarding the story. It's therefore impossible to rate the film accurately until you've watched the upcoming sequels, which are not yet available. It's hard just viewing this film to say for sure how well the story works because the story here is so dependent on what is to come. The film leaves you with so many open ended questions.
So all that said, I think I will rate it based upon the fact that it was entertaining, and it could really work if the sequels fulfill the holes in the story with something competent. The acting here was pretty good. The direction itself seemed fairly mediocre really, given the possibilities of the content. There are some good ideas here though, and ones that do differ from Cube. I have seen a few people say that The Maze Runner is basically a juvenile version of the independent cult horror classic Cube. I've been a huge fan of Cube since the 90's, and for sure there are many similarities here, and calling this a juvenile version is not far from the truth at all. However I maintain that this film does have some of it's own good ideas possibly??? Coming back to the impossible to tell how great the story here really is, without it's companion sequels yet to come. I will rate it as fair as I can for now with a 6. I think it has the chance to be really good, the writer left this door of possibility open as well, so on that note I give it a slightly favorable rating. There is a very good chance that my rating will change, either up or down when we get to fully understand what is going on with these kids and this experiment. I could see myself rating this as low as a 3 and as high as a 7.5. Only time will tell...as for right now. 6/10 - DirectorJohn SlatteryStarsPhilip Seymour HoffmanChristina HendricksRichard JenkinsA blue collar worker tries to cover things up when his stepson is killed in a suspicious accident, but a local reporter senses that something's amiss.
- DirectorJames MotternStarsBen BarnesLeighton MeesterGeorge CarrollNick, a young Boston Italian, trying to find purpose in the ideology of the mafia and finding his world turned upside down.
- DirectorRowan JoffeStarsNicole KidmanColin FirthMark StrongA woman wakes up every day, remembering nothing as a result of a traumatic accident in her past. One day, new terrifying truths emerge that force her to question everyone around her.Make sure you watch Memento (2000) before you see this film. This is basically the same main idea but overall the film is not nearly as good. Seeing this before seeing Memento I'm certain could take away from enjoying one of the best films of the last 25 years. Before I Go To Sleep is a decent watch, but there's nothing really new going on here. 5.5/10
- DirectorR.J. CutlerStarsChloë Grace MoretzMireille EnosJamie BlackleyLife changes in an instant for young Mia Hall after a car accident puts her in a coma. During an out-of-body experience, she must decide whether to wake up and live a life far different than she had imagined. The choice is hers if she can go on.If you like romance, this may be worth your time. The film has some great moments and some weak moments. Overall, worth a look in my view. Moritz is dynamite and keeps the film as grounded as she possibly can despite the script's sometimes overly synthetic moments. 5.5/10
- DirectorJon KnautzTrevor MatthewsStarsAli CobrinAdam DiMarcoGeorge CarrollA beautiful young college student moves into a house that streams video to an X-rated website. After a deranged fan hacks the site and finds out where she lives, she spends the night fighting for her life.
- DirectorErik Peter CarlsonStarsNajarra TownsendConstance BrennemanChandler RylkoOn one evening in a decade of sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll, the innocence of youth and family unravels. Five lives will change forever on this final evening before their hangout, The Toy Soldiers Roller Rink, closes its doors.It really doesn't feel like an 80's film, I should know, I grew up during them. Nor does much of anything feel quite authentically delivered in this film, nonetheless it does have a few real touching moments that somehow work thanks to some great performances. 5/10
- DirectorBorja BrunStarsRaquel MartínezMarc RodriguezRamón PantojaMarried couple and the wife cannot enjoy sex. In order to help the husband sees a sex therapist who makes suggestions. Very sexy movie with see all lovemaking and nothing left to the imagination.5/10
- DirectorMike CahillStarsMichael PittSteven YeunAstrid Bergès-FrisbeyA molecular biologist and his laboratory partner uncover evidence that may fundamentally change society as we know it.There are some good aspects to the film. However there are just way too many scientific errors here to reasonably suspend my disbelief for the duration of the film. Thus making it fairly lame. 5/10
- DirectorGareth EdwardsStarsAaron Taylor-JohnsonElizabeth OlsenBryan CranstonThe world is beset by the appearance of monstrous creatures, but one of them may be the only one who can save humanity.Sure, this is pretty much entirely regurgitated entertainment, but overall the writing and visuals here are good enough to make it watchable. 5/10
- DirectorNicholas StollerStarsSeth RogenRose ByrneZac EfronAfter they are forced to live next to a fraternity house, a couple with a newborn baby do whatever they can to take them down.Some of the film is worthwhile, other parts I could totally do without. Fun and funny at times, cringe worthy and quite terrible in others. 5/10
- DirectorJosh LawsonStarsBojana NovakovicJosh LawsonDamon HerrimanThe secret lives of five suburban couples living in Sydney reveal both the fetishes and the repercussions that come with sharing them.Much of this film doesn't work well, but a few segments do. 5/10