Change Your Image
zain-nov
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Lists
An error has ocurred. Please try againAnd i want to tell that i am not kind of person who does not completes a movie once started watching it. But these actors give me such stupid things that my appetite just blast and i have to shut it down.
You would note that most of the movies are directed by two directors and have a common actor, "Sung Kang Hoo", and why not he is one of the best actor in the world. I never recognized him un till I had seen 6 of his movies.
Reviews
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
I wondered if Avengers thought to go back in time and fix 9/11.
Thanos finished the world, understandable, but why that long face? Everyone knew from the start that world was going to come back (and with new hair styles) so why spend first 60 minutes being so serious?
They followed the formula all 2-part movies do (Kill Bill Vol-1/2, Harry Potter and Deathly Hollow 1/ 2) where first part is all about action and next one a lot drama with action in the end.
Lesser known avengers could sue Thanos for discrimination as he left most famous Avengers to undo what he had done. But in the same way, Thanos can sue Disney and Marvel for strategically delaying Captain Marvel Movie Hence Captain Marvel was kind of immune to the disintegration phenomenon. Not only that but every single Avenger was saved with no serious injury in a massive missile attack by Thanos just before the final better. So was Antman who was in Quantum Realm, strangely 5 years were only 5 hours to him, but not to the Wasp who stayed there for some 30 years but aged 300 years which should have been 30 hours only.
Logic behind saving the world was so grossly cliche and confusing that most of the time it was hard to catch up. Introduction of time machine and promise to not engage with past selves or play with the thread of time was so lame. Eventually they had to come up with the most stupid reasons to fill up the black holes they created in their stories.
Like previous movie, End game has infinite stares. In an action packed movie where every response is predicted, a serious focus on a character and his dense stare feels awkward. Infused drama about every character, we know how much everyone thrives for science yet they refuse in the start to only come up with the solution in snap of a finger. Be it Bruce Banner or Tony Stark. Greatest science inventions like time machine are shown to be as easy as boiling eggs. Time travel not only revives dead and disintegrated characters but makes avengers even more strong. I wondered if they thought to go back in time and fix 9/11.
Since writers were extremely lazy while developing the idea for the movie and could not weave in all the events in the past with their retrospective effects, they brought in an alternate reality approach so that they could mess up other realities to save the one they are in. And avengers in other realities are so lazy and sacrificing that they didn't lift a finger to save their realities because Disney was not making movie about their reality.
Character profile and development is perhaps strongest if we minus the excessive drama. Tony and Captain get the strongest storyline. Natasha's departure and response by rest of avengers was perhaps forced into the story. All these years and no one knew if she had a family? What kind of friendship they have? Finally, the most commercial idea of passing Captain America's shield (franchise torch) to someone colored. There was a Wonder Woman moment when all females assembled to secure Captain Marvel's trip to time machine. Special effects are nothing new and same goes for the weird creatures.
End Game might try to invoke that feeling which you have when a very long series end but it infuses more drama and action it actually needed and the ending in every possible way was predictable and weak.
Green Book (2018)
With the noise it made recently, I could say I was bit disappointed. Overall it was a decent movie but not worthy of the names it grabbed. I think anyone would agree that this
With the noise it made recently, I could say I was bit disappointed. Overall it was a decent movie but not worthy of the names it grabbed. I think anyone would agree that this movie is like watching a re-mastered version of "Driving Miss Daisy" with much focus on the recent changes.
Times were simpler back in 1989 when "Driving Miss Daisy" was released and the focus was only on the story and relationship between a Jewish women and Black driver. But in almost three decades' focus became less and less towards the story and more on "How to force the academy members to vote for this movie?".
Movie spills its beans way too early and even with that pace, every single step is predictable. Even upcoming scenes could be predicted with exact timing and words. Either writers wanted to stick to the real story too much or they wanted to not show anything to antagonize either color. And as a product of their effort, the output was mediocre.
As far as acting goes, Mahershala Ali is on average. Beside one scene, his acting looks like an effort. For a person like me who has seen him for several years, on House of Cards giving a brilliant performance before he became famous, his portrayal was a huge let down. His effort was visible but he resisted taking risk. Viggo Mortensen on the other hand was closer to the character he was playing. He did not come up with the sharp Italian ascent we'd expect since God Father but his body language was very impressive. Ironically, Viggo was nominated for a similar role 11 years ago for "Eastern Promises".
The Green Book is not a bad movie and definitely not a bad idea, but it sure was wasted to milk the recent black cow.
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
everyone involved in the movie made sure that they all do go wrong.
I went with almost no expectations after lukewarm first movie, but J. K. Rowling along with David Yates still manage to disappoint me. Grindlewald starts off with a brilliant sequence but within that you could see that the director does not have that grip and lacks the crunch. A promise which is thrown soon after.
Rowling needs to understand that writing a movie is different than writing a novel. You can't keep it that slow and almost no character development is offered in the movie that's why. Much like it's ancestor series, Grindlewald hardly did not lose any of the character from the first movie even though strict criticism over the talentless cast.
Here is what is wrong with the movie
1. Baggage of the first movie
As said earlier, fans failed to identify with almost all of the lead characters from the first movie. It was needed to drop some of the characters (Jacob atleast) but next movie kept them on even though Tine, Queenie and Jacob play no role in story. Even new characters don't help much. Dumbledore, Theseus and Nagini are merely decorative items. Someone should tell the producers that the beasts are not as interesting as they think and presenting them. Neither are they cute not funny and no one wants to see them. People want the darker tone and a better goal (not credence again).
2. Who to follow
Although movie is flooded with the characters but there is a confusion who is real protagonist. Series started with Newt, but his role and contribution has diminished to only avoiding direct eye contact. Dumbledore was expected to have a strong role but he has only an extended guest appearance.
3. Marvel's Formula
Harry Potter has always casted diverse actors but here it was diverse too much. Much of the cast was unnecessarily ethnic. Smaller roles to only bring some interest or color in the story were played by international actors. Also this single movie has more special effects then all of the 8 Harry potter movies combined. Many of the actors are in 20's or 30's. It can't be swallowed that there is not mature aurar on the team. Everyone is just out of school and holding a high rank and important position in ministry. On the other hand, they were too old for kids to connect with.
4. Weak writing
Screenplay is vague and even by the end one is not sure what's Gindlewald's real motive. May be it was explained in the novels but not in the movie which audience came to watch. Last movie ended with Gindlewald's capture and this started with his escape, that was too quick to digest. He was shown to be very strong and powerful from the start of the movie which should have been a work in progress. A slow escape and gradual raise to the power involving obtaining of a special object to cast a citywide curse which would kill that many aurars. Instead they kept Ginglewald doing nothing after escape and in climax (which was hard to identify) Gindlewald casts a spell so massive to kill a lot of powerful wizards.
5. Waste
Like Harry Potter, we don't have "Cream of British Film Industry" but we do have "Johnny Depp" an actor known for his vast versatility and what a waste. He never was given a chance to show his true colors (especially with all white makeup). Series' fans were against his casting but producers could have benefited from Depp's following which they totally lost as he does nothing out of the box except wearing weird lenses.
Still I liked the movie better than the first one as it had a better second half.
Here is what is good with this movie.
1. Jude Law and Zoe Kravitz
Only two actors stood out of the mediocre performance. Jude looked like he studied Michael Gambon very well and transformed his personal accordingly. With all his movement, one can see Michael Gambon's Dumbledore. Zoe had only one chance to shine in the series and she sure did not miss it. She brought much needed depth to her character with mysterious air and elegance.
2. Magical effects
For fans, it would be satisfying to see there are a lot of magical sequence.
When you are directing a movie after a fan favorite series, a lot of things could go wrong, and in case of Grindlewald, everyone involved in the movie made sure that they all do go wrong.
Silkwood (1983)
top notch performance by the trio lead
It's rare to see top actors playing roles in which they fit just perfectly. A movie which spends a lot time to help audience understand the dynamics of the medical effects it would explore later on. Very technical and detailed screen play brought to us by top notch performance by the trio lead.
Daredevil (2015)
First interesting export from house of Marvel.
Daredevil will be the first live action adaptation of marvel's universe which actually is dark. Although it borrows heavy influence from Christopher Nolan's work on Batman films but still it raises above significantly from other recent marvel work for both tv and movies which are totally commercial and senseless (Except for Captain America, which is better then the rest). Marvel has made movies mostly about costume action and adventure but daredevil has more drama and intense action which makes it different then its predecessors. Performances by Charlie Cox, Deborah Ann Woll and Rosario Dawson are worth watching too.
Sharp Objects (2018)
Experiments are always welcomes but not always they provide the required results.
No matter how many series they built on the premise "Someone whose recovering from something has to return to home town after homicide" it still is interesting. "The Killing", "Broad Church" and now "Sharp Objects" but the superiority of the later lies in it power lead which is "Amy Adams".
Amy has shown a variety of characters ranging from sweet Enchanted princess to strong linguistic teacher. But her role in Shape Objects is somehow very different than anything she has ever played. Aided by nonlinear story telling method which is flooded with flashbacks, very slowly and gradually we get a peek into the mind of "Camile".
As compared to his peers, director did not tend to end each episode at a cliffhanger rather let it go as a whole movie is divided into eight parts. With each episode, there is more focus on Camile getting adjusted into the town and how she deals with the ghosts of her past. Her job to cover for the murders becomes a sub plot in fact. But that brings us closer to her character.
Now, there story becomes very slow and confusing. There is strong vibe who might have done what yet it keeps going. And show gives a final showdown at episode 7, after which last episode was just an excuse to make an episode. Experiments are always welcomes but not always they provide the required results.
Show is great in each technical department especially performances, editing, cinematography and sound mixing it's just it's writing could be little more engaging.
Ocean's Eight (2018)
A cast which could triumph the screen was put to a wasted work.
A cast which could triumph the screen was put to a wasted work.
Ocean's 8 starts with a promise to offer something spectacular but then it focusses too much on introducing characters one by one and following its predecessor instead of layering out its own trap. Ocean movies hardly get intimate with the characters but what they did have in common was a good heist in the end with a twist. While 8 offers the twist but not the good heist which makes the twist fall flat. All the jokes, moves and twists are very much predictable. One who has seen the trailer might be able to deduce whole plot.
Only job to be done was of stylists and costume designers, which they did the best. Every member of the cast looked stunning and somehow performed to satisfaction. While many subsidiary characters were unrelateable, Cate Blanchet was signed to a role which had no use throughout the movie. She played equivalent part to that of Brad Pitt, but where role of Rusty was that of volatile, her character was lost and somewhat over shadowed by Sandra Bullock.
Secret Life of Lakes (2015)
No Documentary Justified it's title better then this
Lakes,
I am a big enthusiast of the lakes and rivers but most of the documentaries available about the subjects only focus on the wild life in water. Not these, this series has touched every aspect related to a lake. be it the wild life, it's past and expected future, sources of water and outflows, lives of people living by and above all the brilliant cinematography.
They were successful to get me interested in the wild life of the lakes. And the selection of lakes is absolutely brilliant. They opted the lakes people don't know about very much.
An absolutely wonderful series, I hope and wish they make more like that.
Dunkirk (2017)
Over all Dunkirk is a nice job but it does not fill up the hopes one walks into theater with.
Christopher Nolan's movies over the year have become a huge craze and have a sincere fan following. With Dunkirk Mr. Nolan has taken a much different work in his resume. I would start with one of the mostly compelling part of his movies. Background Score Only work I admire of Hans Zimmer is with Christopher Nolan, Whether it's TDK or Inception or the best to date Interstellar, Hans has always proved to be diverse and mind bending. But with Dunkirk he has gone way too far. Even from the start score is way too heavy for nerves, movie itself is very short but that intensity and pressure is unnecessary from the scenes which should have been all about sound editing and mixing instead of relying on same technique as Chasing scene from TDK and Docking scene from Interstellar. Hans' work is good but is not needed at most of the time as it makes it all more artificial rather real. Memento Mori We might have missed Chris' brother Jonathan Nolan, who was absent from writing credits (may be too busy with Westworld) 3rd time since Chris' breakout film Memento back in 2000. Jonathan was not involved in Insomnia 2003, fan favorite Inception 2010 and now Dunkirk. However he was present in spirit of Memento, a movie which was adapted from his then unpublished short story Memento Mori. Memento was built on a complex web of time lapse and chronology so is Dunkirk. Three different stories of different time period all in 106 minutes and running parallel. To avoid confusion it was displayed at the start how will it be. Although it is beautiful idea, however bringing together three different time periods, by pulling one way too long and shrinking one way too much made it feel uneven and hard to relate to. Movie showed Mole for 7 days and yet not a single night. Mainly because it wanted to focus on its connection to the rest of the two stories. Chaos without Drama One thing Christopher Nolan is notorious to create since TDK is the chaos. That's something movie shines on. Whether it's the Mole or Air, there is huge fear over the fate of vessel, plane and the lives. Among characters the confusion and fear has played the best, although the lead felt weaker without any outcome and reaction. Drama throughout was cut off, an element which was criticized to cover up the scientific gaps in Interstellar's plot. At some level it worked as it maintained the tone of the movie but at other side movie was losing its soul over that. Tag line gave it all Usually it's the trailer, but here it was the tag line "When 400,000 men couldn't get home, home came for them." For the people who had no idea of events at Dunkirk, who were only out to see another of Christopher Nolan movie, there was nothing left but Kenneth Branagh's overly expressed emotions as movie moves into the final segment. Beside the plot line, the fabrication of one day at sailing into one week at mole had also taken most of the suspense away when audience know it from the start that home is on its way. Home being many ships only focused on one. With the movie which propelled ensemble cast, focusing on one ship was narrow for the story. Ship itself was sailed by "Mark Rylance" who was miscast for the role as he could not bring what was required to appear as a man willingly walking into the war without any aid. Good thing is
Those are too many negative words but there are good things about Dunkirk, which could be the Direction. Even with all the wrong choice Nolan made, still movie keeps audience captive at point. Another quality is by default its length which does not make the viewer suffer through completed of second and sometime third hour which most of the war movies do. Cinematography is very good and so is Sound editing and mixing but unfortunately excessive use of background score has taken over those departments. Over all Dunkirk is a nice job but it does not fill up the hopes one walks into theater with.
Doctor Strange (2016)
was Dr. Strange rip off, of Christopher Nolan's movies"
About Dr.Strange, I would like to quote what my late (Imaginary) mentor said about Angelina Jolie's Salt back in 2010 "This movie has holes in it big enough to drive the whole movie through. The laws of physics seem to be suspended here the same way as in a Road Runner cartoon".
But is it a good film, we will establish that first we need to look into the matter if "Dr. Strange was rip off, of Christopher Nolan's movies" Throughout the movie, characters, special effects and plot was shouting Nolan's name because it was strikingly very much similar to at least 3 of his movies. 1. Batman Begins A rich guy goes to Himalayas then comes back enriched with new deathly set of skills/arts with a new persona, does that rings a bell? And the whole texture of the screen, clouds, darker colors, soul shaking crush on a friend who is taking her job very seriously. There is another tiny bit resemblance, which might the homage to longer twist in batman. Initially Ras'ul Akh's identity is mistaken by Bruce. So is done by Strange with ancient one. 2. Inception Now that's what everyone is talking about the physics defying scenes of inception have been stretched out. Also worth mentioning are those Hallway/Lobby scenes from Inception where no CGI was used and in Dr. Strange it's all about CGI with excessive artwork and too much goes on too quick that it loses it's charm. Apart from the visual similarities, the ending of Dr. Strange has huge influence from Inception where characters might get trap in the deepest of the memories for ever. In Dr. Strange it also takes inspiration for ending from another of Nolan's movie. 3. Interstellar We travel in alternate dimensions many times in Dr. Strange but do we remember our travels through wormholes? Of course there had been worm holes in movies since decades but we got familiar to the term after Interstellar but the design of wormholes and the fact that it takes you inside a black hole instead of future or past is impact of Interstellar. Dormammu (as funny as it sounds, especially from Bennedict's mouth) is a fantasized version of a black hole trying to take over the earth. As explained earlier, ending is also inspired by Interstellar where key to save the world lies within a black hole and Hero has to go into it. Ancient One's character is hugely inspired by Professor Brand from Interstellar as they both introduce the lead character to the object of the plot near the end shown to have kept secret to themselves. Beside Nolan's massive impact on the movie, there are other influences which are quite visible. Kaecilius sidekicks were much like characters from Thor, I would not be much surprised to know that they were using same costume, considering the fact that they will share the Marvel universe soon will make it cost effective for producers. It seems like Bennedict is the guy to play role of photographic memory as it's his 3rd role after Sherlock Holmes in Sherlock and Alan Turning in The Imitation Games. Although Bennedict is brilliant actor but if you are playing similar role again and again it might not be that much entertaining. His role of Alan Turning was different but playing Dr. Strange is very much similar to Playing Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness. Tilda Swinton is brilliant and the only person who fits into the role and does justification to it. Swinton brings charisma with her personality, mild British accent and ability to look stunning with bald head. It's a shame her character met its destiny, as it could have brought interesting background in upcoming movies. Rest of the cast were not given much chance to prove anything. Story is not that different from any action or superhero movie ever made. With lose ends like the death of Ancient One (who only has aliases and not funny name), accident of Strange over shoreline, the object to control time was just laid around and the fact how strange manage to successfully maneuver the feat at first attempt, how skull of ancient one was still intact after falling from height of hundreds of feet. And the strategic scheduling of the movie right after Captain America Civil War, where it introduces mirror reality concept. So now all the dirty fight can take place in mirror universe while real one remains intact saving Avengers from future lawsuits. Overall Dr. Strange is enjoyable, especially for its opening sequence and special effects. But again it's more of form over no substance.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
Here's what's wrong with Fantastic Beasts !!!!
Here's what's wrong with Fantastic Beasts
!!!!
1. Eddie Redmayne Eddie could hold first 10 position on this list because of his worst ever portrayal of any character written by J. K Rowling. It's a new low by an Oscar winner. Even with all the efforts by writer and director, Eddie not only failed to make audience feel infatuated with him but one can't even relate to his character. It has something to do with his hate towards camera's lenses or his love for his side profile that he would rather should his left cheek most of the time instead of facing the camera. His acting is pretty much uni-dimensional. Character shows no development or attachment to anyone besides harnessing some weird animals.
2. Rest of the cast As much as we praised the casting director of Harry Potter for bringing such brilliant mix to our lives, audience will curse the casting director of Fantastic for the job to bring worst performers on the screen
altogether. None of the actors could really fit in the character (much thanks to J. K. Rowling's very weak characterization). Every actor seems to be the miss fit. And wearing weird costumes and hair. Lead characters seems to miss the cohesiveness among them even they witch sisters are distant. Some characters hardly acknowledge another's screen presence.
3. The adventure Unlike Harry Potter and as the movie is sold, there is less or no adventure involved. Eventually the biggest threat is the exposure (which does not sound that much of a threat). There is nothing left in the action sequence when it's known to be harmless to living being whether it's animal or dark force which despite of revolving around the person who betrayed him does not hard him a bit ( not even his hair were messed up while Eddie's were all messed up throughout )
4. Plot line and Characterization Story is pretty much vague, we never know, how did the beasts escaped at the first? Here much is left to imagination or presumption that only die hard readers of the books are watching the movie. Also the intentions of characters are not clear, why Newt is taking Jacob to everywhere, only likeness is not enough, beside the movie would have still be the same without Jacob as he plays no role in whole movie at all. Same is the character of Queenie and her affection for Jacob. Some sub plots used, were only waste of budget especially Shaw's death and his father & brother's rage. Signing John Voight for a role which has no significance was mismanagement by studio. I personally struggled to have fun during most of the part. Story was plain straight and offered no excitement.
5. Finale Ending is very much like any other super hero movie. Someone trying to take over and destroying building during its movement however it does not do much harm we'll give it that ( and they can't come up with sequel where heroes will be held responsible or be divided among themselves to take responsibility of the destruction and mass murder). Even though Tine was closer to credence (a character which should won award for the worst hair cut in history of mankind), she sends Newt to save and talk to him. Another failed effort by W Bros to create beloved hero (but with Eddie's stupid acting or in words of Sia "Cheap Thrills" it's impossible). Graves' intentions about obscurus and newt are so unclear. It's not revealed what he wanted to do with obscurus and it was annoying what he was doing with Newt in the subway. As is the fact that they have planned 4 more movies after this adventure less movie.
What's good with Fantastic Beasts?
1. Collin Farrell Mr. Farrell is the best thing in the movie. Although his character lacks the depth and background but Collin gave persona and intensity to it. He literally owned every frame he was in. He could have been one of those series antagonists who are both evil and memorable.
2. Cameo I was not going to write it as it would have caused "Spoiler Alert" but I cannot, not write about it. Johnny Depp's cameo is the best cameo ever in film or television. Even that I had read about it, still I completely forgot and almost jumped out of my seat to see him. He gave us hope.
3. Future prospects Now that Eddie is signed and played Newt, they can't replace him but J. K. Rowling can bring Albus Dumbledore in the story and make him the lead instead. It would make the story much mature, dark and fan favorite.
Room (2015)
A work of art in the head of a blessed team
Room is one of those few movies which maintain the crisp of the literary work they originated from mainly because the same person wrote it for screen adaptation. If it were a young adult novel with fan following, studios would have teared the novel into at-least 2 movies so when one watches it, should remember that he is getting double the fun and why not, Room is a powerful movie with all the elements a blockbuster entertainer lacks these days.
We open our eyes to the screen and we are in a small room with two inhabitant. We spend a substantial amount of time in that tiny room but never we ever feel suffocated because of the freshness maintained by the director and drop dead performances by both Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay. One wonders if it is going to be a usual torture or survival movie but it is bigger then that. It is very much common that movies are taking a more realistic and social approach towards crises then that of only physical ones.
Room is based on a very strong idea and is made by a brilliant director. Performances are of worth watching. Brie Larson is magnificent, although much appreciation should be given to the casting director who opted for her, as most of the praise Brie is getting, is due to the persona she brought to the movie which is different then regular cry baby. And that was the decision of who ever casted her as they at that time gave the movie something other lacked. Jacob Tremblay is brilliant in his role and it's very disappointing to see that many of the award organizations have over looked his work.
Although the script is very strong and to the point but the Jacob's escape from the room seemed little weaker. Second half of the movie was much inspired from Irwin Winkler's 'At First Sight' and Clind Eastwood's 'American Sniper. Brie's performance is very good but not as much as she is getting rewarded. As I explained, it's mainly her personality which brought something new into this genre of movie. Rest of the cast were good too. One last mention is for the art designer who worked on the interior of the room which kept us interested in it all the time we spent there.
A work of art in the head of a blessed team.
Ich seh, Ich seh (2014)
A brilliant idea wasted by poor writing
The times have changed and viewers now prefer the cleaner horror movies as compared to slashers and bloody movies from 80's and 90's. What I call them is 'Contemporary Horror' where editing and cinematography takes the responsibility to keep it chilly instead of make up and special effects.
Goodnight Mommy, is such of a movie which depicts power of it's script and cleaner direction. With minimal characters and only one major location, Goodnight Mommy resembles to recent Hollywood release Ex-Machina. Technically movie is brilliant, or at least first half of it. Although it's very much clear even from the first encounter of mother and sons that One of them is not real. Script showed a damaging weakness there when it could not hide the sheer suspense which was the backbone of the movie. And from there it was all in the open that script is based on the premise of Korean Horror ' A Tale of Two Sister' which was unsuccessfully made in Hollywood as 'The Uninvited'.
Despite of the weaker story, movie still managed to keep one focus his mind until the big change comes and boy knots his mother down. From there now it turned from a 'Contemporary Horror' to 'Contemporary Torture' movie and by torture I mean torturing the viewers. There literally is not purpose to watch the movie from there an on. There is no story and no character strength left.
A brilliant idea wasted by poor writing
Jian yu (2010)
A good entertainer with blend of fast pacing story and brilliant wushu action.
Reign of Assassins could be a sequel to international sensation 'Crouching Tigers, Hidden Dragon', also starring Michelle Yeoh. It has many elements which resemble to the story of CTHD. A untamed female warrior who was changed because of love reminds very much of phenomenal CTHD.
Over all movie is very entertaining, action sequences are very well choreographed. The suspense is well kept and story progresses with interest. However character development is weak. Chemistry between both leads could have been better. The romance which we see in the end could not blossom in the start. Perhaps Michelle Yeoh could have work on her passionate expressions. Rest of the cast did their job very well.
Cinematography and editing is good. It could be felt that an American handled much of movie's work as the story paces very fast even though it was set in old times. Added action has taken much of the movie's soul out which is common with John Woo's movies.
A good entertainer with blend of fast pacing story and brilliant wushu action.
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)
One goes with high expectation but returns very disappointed.
Force Awakens is kind of movie which makes you miss James Cameron. The visionary director who actually understands the need and desire of the audience. Force Awaken even lacks the philosophy offered by original movie. It's a product which is made with only one intention, 'Feed the hungry fans and cash the cow'. Starting with the story, it was like watching A New Hope's mesh up with Jurassic World. All elements of the Original movie were present. The Trio of young characters, the good turned bad antagonist and his relationship with the protagonist. Even the death star and some old stars were there. There absolutely is no real goal in the movie. We movie from securing the map to preparing the Jedi to destroying the death star. And story itself has holes big enough to swallow a galaxy which is far far away. It seems that in last 30 years only earth have progressed in technology and biological domain, the galaxy which was so advance 40 years ago, now seems be living the same. Like the original series, antagonists are not killed and neither the family of protagonist is revealed. I wonder if they have any idea about DNA and biology. Also it's not clear that how come antagonist know a lot of technology. From a 30 years old spaceship to a newly built death star. She knows the right circuits to pull out. Characters seemed to be very distant throughout the movie. There absolutely was no chemistry between Han Solo and Princess/General Lea. Who unexpectedly is never mentioned to be from Jedi family. Although after recent success of female protagonist oriented film series, they did pass the torch to a girl. Moving to visual effects and cinematography, perhaps the focus really was to add unnecessary and blunt action sequence. Much like prequels directed by George Lucas, colors were blurred and not so bright. There was no need to watch the movie in Imax or 3d, the worst a director can do to a 3d movie. J J Abrams really lacked a vision here. It is just like watching a 2d film. Acting is okie, Although I did not understand some of the wits. Daisy Ridley is great in her role. She wore the role over and is the best thing in movie crossover. Harrison Ford is good and easy in his role. Carrie Fisher is alright. She did not have much to do that explains more than enough make up even at crucial times. John Boyega and Oscar Isaac played split up of Han Solo's character with not much required jokes. One goes with high expectation but returns very disappointed.
Dalkomhan insaeng (2005)
A well made movie which could have been bitter
Kim Jee-woon is a brilliant director and i remember him as the one who made one of my all time favorite horror film 'A Tale of Two Sisters'. I keep looking forward to his new work. A Bittersweet Life was not any disappointment at all, although it was not as intelligent work as the one I mentioned above.
As far as story is concerned, there is nothing much into it. A sophisticated gangster is given a task by his boss to check on his girlfriend and kill her if she is having an affair. But our guy fails to do so because he develops soft corner for the girl. Boss does not like this and suddenly everyone turns against him. From there and on wards it's pretty much action only. But very good action indeed.
Although movie feels weak at points where the main character, who is shown to be very sharp and master of martial arts, under estimates the situation and opponents. The purpose seem to create complex situation and show blood. Also at point, emotional fragility would sound infused. Why did the boss let his girlfriend go alive which he wanted to kill. I was expecting movie around her protection. The most interesting scene is where he learns to assemble the gun and then there is a race who assembles first for life.
Apart from story, everything is perfect and to the spot. Byung-hun Lee is exceptional in his role. He totally carries out the character with depth. A well made movie which could have been bitter.
Sinsegye (2013)
A well written story
At time, 'New World' would seem just another movie. With elements borrowed from many past famous movies. But still it has that fresh taste thanks to that brilliant cinematography and editing. We have seen many movies with an undercover cop who wants to get out of the life (Infernal Affair & The Departed) and we have seen movies where left and right hands fight to reach to the throne. It is a mix of both of those types with addition of brutality and emotions.
An undercover cop, who becomes part of the biggest mob family as his clan merges with others to form an organization. A decade has passed since he is in the job and now wants to get out. But his boss is constantly breaking his promise to pull him out and keeps on blackmailing him to stay put. Finally he embraces his fate and burns all the boats.
On important part of movie is him relation with closest friend who protects him till the end and in fact is the one who advises him to choose for himself instead of being a pawn and living in shadows.The use of young boys as mobsters fighting with other mobsters of same age group is a new thing. Another visual treat is that all the men are dressed in formal suits. Very well acted, powerfully written a strong story of kind heart cop turned into cold blooded Don.
Ajeossi (2010)
Generally a good revenge/chase movie.
The Man From Nowhere, is an intense movie. With more then just enough of the blood. Very well edited and marvelously acted movie. However, it's kind of movie which would have worked better with lesser of the words. At times it felt very expressive. Especially when characters would express their emotions using words. The title lost it's justification somewhere between those dialogues which brought him form nowhere into open book category. Fight sequences are intense and very well choreographed. Cinematography is good too. Writing could have been little better though.
Generally a good revenge/chase movie.
Salinui chueok (2003)
A movie which will be on your favorite lift forever.
A total knockout film. A piece of art which has everything one goes to cinema for. From funny to hilarious and then dramatic, emotional, sad and finally shocked. It's a movie without any ending and the one that attaches a hook to you brain and won't let it go. From the publicity posters to the editing, writing and acting this movie is a thoughtful work. At times it would seem like reading an old novel and at times it would seem like watching a nemesis film. There are many flavors which work because of the terrific acting jobs everyone has done. Every character is a perfect fit. Both of the lead cops are opposite to each other and then the shift in their personality to take each other's place. The suspense is very strongly kept through out the movie and there is a ground breaking background score to lift it to new heights. The chase seen from the woods into the village and then the factory site is very thrilling. Another scene involving the train accident is also placed right. There would not be any department or field this movie could be less then great at. Kang-ho Song, is the best thing in the movie. His portrayal of an aggressive cop is top notch. He brings all the humor and then the intensity in the movie. Sang-kyung Kim, also gave wonderful performance. A cop with less known background which is civilized and honest to his job and then loses his control over the event. A movie which will be on your favorite lift forever.
Mibu gishi den (2002)
A Thriller with drama and emotions.
An amazing start for a movie set in old times. Even though time presented is calm and the movie is based on riots. Director has managed to add the thrill most of the western thrillers failed to engage. They best theme which this movie deals is to realize how far one can go to keep their loved ones safe and sound. No matter if it means pain for both sides. Another sub plot where the characters, who in start dislike each other, came to understand each other better then anyone else is depiction of true samurai's with different agenda's and principles. Both characters have been present as contrast of nature as one being humble and greedy while other narcissist and carefree. Grip over the story and the editing is remarkable. Many actors have performed to the reality. Production design is simple and impressive. Costumes are very gentle and about the era.
La mala educación (2004)
An emotional, convincing and disturbing work of art
One of the best work of Pedro Almedor, with themes similar to those of his All About My Mother, he took rather more artistic way to explore the film making by introducing a story with a story. A connection between past and present is the narrative in a fantasized way which is very touching. The bitter taste of the reality in comparison of our memories is very well presented. Pedro never clanged on to his scenes much longer or tried to over dramatized his films which works best for the films length and matches the innocence of younger characters. The scenes in convent are worth praising. Daniel Giménez Cacho's work as a priest dealing with inner demon while in the presence of a child is very beautiful. Rest of the cast were good too. Best of the movie would be the twist it came with the final character's introduction and explanation of alternate reality as to the one protagonist was imagining. A way to show the strength of the writer. An emotional, convincing and disturbing work of art.
Okuribito (2008)
light hearted sentimental film
A well written movie, which touches many themes most importantly dealing with death and watching others grief upon it. One side of it is very soft and touches our heart but on the other hand it is not as astonishing as we expect it to be. Story and even scenes are very predictable. Ending also could be seen from minutes away from it. Director has worked hard on the interior of Coffining but failed to bring deeper sentiments onto screen. Tsutomu Yamazaki's portrayal of a Boss who teaches the protagonist is the most fabulous quality of the movie. Actor actually work the role around and inside. Masahiro Motoki and Ryōko Hirosue are very convincing although camera sometime focused on Ryōko more then it needed. Her character as a devoted wife is well however it is not explored much. Ritual of coffining are filmed very good. The sub plot of protagonist's relation with his father was good but there could have been more about it. Over all a light hearted sentimental film.
Ying xiong (2002)
A Movie which is nothing less then Magnificent in every way.
A true work of art which can mesmerize anyone. Every frame of Hero is designed and presented so beautifully that one watching it forgets to blink the eye. Magnificent and giant artwork is enough to keep you with the movie and increase your interest in Chinese history. Lavish yet clean living style of the people and the costumes, not to mention the colours and the way the events are narrated. However, movie is more about the complex love story between two assassins then another one with extreme speed. Essential Chinese arts of Qin, Wéiqí ,Calligraphy and Painting are amazingly blended with the themes while first 3 are expressive shown, Painting is rather subjective to the audience perception of colour work through out the movie. Characters are presented enigmatically, from passionate to the quite ones. Very strong movie with brave artwork and performances.
Todo sobre mi madre (1999)
A genderless movie dealing with grief and sorrow
Many themes are mixed in 'All About My mother' and the best part is that it does not care about them at all. Movie has it's own pace, the goal set in start is lost somewhere to pursue important ones. It also clarifies how does a loss changes the point of view and feelings for someone. Reshaping one's own life over one's sorrow. Although set in Spain, it have major south American influence on characters and their lifestyle as well as technical departments. Like most of Pedro Almodovar, woman oriented turns into genderless story of people who are dealing with grief, regret while struggling with life to go on. 'Innocence does know itself' would perfectly describe the movie.