Taylor_Gillen Reviews

The Hateful Eight (2015)

Good but Not Outstanding

[7/10 · 10 January 2016]

Right, I understand: a filmmaker cannot be expected to make a masterpiece every time he or she makes another movie. Though some have come close, it's basically impossible. It's unfair to hold those expectations for writers and directors.

However, I can't help but feel that Tarantino has allowed himself to stay close to home. He doesn't roam free, trying new things, attempting a new style or genre. Sure, there is a new set of characters, a new setting, a new plot. But there numerous instances in the film that could be predicted because, well, it's Tarantino's style. He even uses most of the same actors he has used before. That can be fine, but now that this is his 8th film, I wished he deviated more from the style of his other films.

That isn't to say it isn't good. It definitely is good. Many viewers remain interested in the story, and that is impressive considering the three-hour run-time. The acting is great, the cinematography is beautiful, there is suspense and mystery, and there are a lot of laughs. I was actually impressed with the number of laughs I had.

Here's the plot: a bounty hunter is transporting a criminal to a small town. He meets another bounty hunter along the way, along with the sheriff of the town he's traveling to. They get caught in a storm and have to stay at a haberdashery. They planned to make a quick stop, but now they have to wait for the storm to pass. They meet a number of other travelers there, but soon everyone realizes they have a connection with each other. And their interests get in the way of each other's survival.

It's been described as a violent Western version of Clue. I would say that is accurate. There a a bunch of "a-ha" moments for the characters, along with long sequences of explanations and discussions. This works sometimes, and other times it drags on.

I read an article that stated Tarantino wants to make a horror film. A real horror film, one that intends to scare you. I would love to see this.

Bottom line is that this film closely parallels the other films that Tarantino has made. If you like that, you'll love this film. If you are looking for something fresh, this won't deliver. I like Tarantino and enjoyed the film, but the issue I mentioned is the reason this movie is 7/10 instead of 10/10.

Enter the Void (2009)

Transcending Traditional Cinema

[7/10 · 2 January 2016]

I don't know what to think of "Enter the Void", and I believe that I will still have no definitive opinion in the future. I would classify this film as experimental, but it's really one-of-a-kind. Why do I rate it 7/10 instead of 5/10? Because I believe it's a necessary film. Some movies are entertaining, some are beautiful, and some of them are necessary.

Here's the plot: a young man in Tokyo indulges in the world of drugs. He is set up and, in the aftermath of an altercation with the police, is dead (all in the beginning of the movie). The camera takes on the perspective of his soul as he travels to various locations in Tokyo, watches his friends and loved ones deal with the situation, and visit his childhood. What does he seek? It's hard to say, but maybe resurrection.

This movie flows at a snail's pace, but that is intentional. The movie is two and a half hours long, most of the characters slur their dialogue because they are under the influence, and the camera movements are slow, methodical and are not rushed. Like an actual hallucinatory experience, minutes feel like hours, and hours feel like days.

Unfortunately, that can become frustrating. This movie works if you watch it in two sessions, but trying to get through it all without a break is difficult.

Despite this, I believe this movie is necessary. Cinema is an interesting mix of business and art, and you get movies on both sides of the spectrum. While some experimental films are considered preachy, this movie seems to have no big message. It is simply an out-of-body experience told through a film camera. There are some impressive visuals and strange incidents, but I think that this movie helps reinforce the fact that cinema really generate new ways of telling stories. If you are up for a new kind of film, watch it.

Enemy (2013)

Yet Another Doppelgänger Film with Unanswered Questions

[6/10 · 28 December 2015]

The concept of the Doppelgänger is nothing new, and yet it is still so interesting. If you found out that one exists (and you knew you weren't related), what would you do? I think any curious person would find that person and figure out what's going on, and that's what happens in "Enemy". However, like many other art-house film, convoluted plots yield few answers, and the ending leaves you tongue-tied and a bittersweet taste.

A note to readers: there is no problem with a movie that makes you think. In fact, we need more of those. We need movies that encourage you to open a conversation with people after the credits roll. We need movies that make you think twice about what you saw, and thereby give you a greater understanding of human life. The sad thing is that "Enemy" doesn't give you a greater understanding about anything; really, it just exists to make you wonder what the heck is going on. Perhaps that is supposed to extend to its message, stating that life is confusing and doesn't yield answers. But who wants to watch a movie like that?

Here's the plot: a man named Adam is bored with his life, and he finds out that there is someone that looks exactly like him in a movie. He tracks him down, they meet, and they try to figure out their connection.

Here's why it doesn't work: They spend little time exploring the fact that a doppelgänger exists and what that could mean. Instead, they spend most of the time fleeing (or stalking) each other -- they take turns -- and thereby spins the plot into a spiraling circle of boredom. It's like the filmmakers are trying to turn this movie into a "game of cat-and-mouse" without giving viewers the satisfaction of making it comprehensible. There was a question I kept asking myself: if they're so immersed in each other's existence, why do they keep fleeing each other and then hurting each other?

There were few questions answered by the end. For a movie that is supposed to be about a possible twin, there is too much time spent on other things. And the characters don't really change throughout. Instead, they just become less relatable.

Here's what works: the idea is pretty cool, and the first thirty minutes kept my interest. The set-up was good, even if the execution of the second and third acts were disappointing. The performances were fine, and there was a good soundtrack.

If you like experimental films (with a big budget) that leave you with unanswered questions, you'll like this movie. If you are someone that needs something more, don't bother.

Spring (I) (2014)

A Typical Romance with a Twist

[5/10 · 28 December 2015]

Most romances have the same question until the resolution: will the couple stay together, or will they break up? "Spring" poses the same conundrum, but there is one difference: the answer lies in whether or not their relationship can work with a certain monstrosity (no pun intended) of an issue with the girl.

I suppose this could be metaphorical and extend to real life problems with relationships. One person has a problem, and the other doesn't. Will they accept each other for who they are, despite the consequences of being in a relationship of that nature? Will love prevail? I think this story tries to answer that.

Here's the plot: a guy has just lost people he cares about, and he feels like he has nothing left. After he lashes out on a bully, he decides to flee to Italy (since he would have anyway at some point) and start over. Of course, there's this amazing girl he meets and is completely enamored with. She is strange, is hot-and-cold, and he can't figure her out. That is, until he finds out her secret.

Here's what works: 1) the setting is gorgeous, and it plays into the fantasy of this guy's new life. It's almost an illusion, kind of like the illusion of who this girl is. 2) They continue with the story after the reveal of her secret, and they explore it. 3) There are some surprisingly effective CGI and make-up effects.

Here's what doesn't work: 1) the movie is too long. At almost two hours, this could have been trimmed by twenty minutes. The characters spend way too much time walking around, talking, not really accomplishing anything. They explore the secret this girl harbors, but they go too far with analyzing it. This is not a sci-fi film; it's a romance. 2) The characters don't have little range in their performances. I'm sure the actors could accomplish it, but there isn't much they can play with. You'd think a story like this would present some cool scenes to experiment with, but I was disappointed.

There is a problem with a lot of indie films, and this one is no exception. Many bring up either a conflict, a sub-plot, or another side to a character, but the writers don't fully utilize the opportunity's potential. Things come and things go with little payoff, and that leads to dissatisfaction. A few leaves the room thinking, "it wasn't bad, but I wish they had spent more time on this or that." It could be because of budgetary options, or maybe because they don't want to be predictable. The same thing happened with "Spring". There were a number of avenues this movie could have explored (and were opened). The police were on the protagonist's trail, but nothing happened. The idea of rebirth is brought up, but we don't see much. There are even more.

This film is alright, but it is longer than it needs to be and doesn't fully utilize its potential. If you are looking for an odd romance to fill your time, this will work.

Cop Car (2015)

A Simple Premise with a Unique Execution

[7/10 · 29 November 2015]

The plot is simple: two boys stumble upon a squad car in a field. It's door's unlocked, and they jump in. It turns out the officer was busy elsewhere, and when he returns, he has to find his car. It's a simple premise, but the unique aspect is how the story unfolds. There are a few twists, though nothing too existential. Just a few plot developments that keep things interesting.

The cinematography and editing are utilized to include slow movements, few cuts and long takes. The sound design is excellent; we listen to the sounds of the environment more often than a bellowing score. Between these three factors, we are kept in a state of curiosity, of bafflement. That matches the tone of the movie, so the filmmakers used these tools well.

Kevin Bacon performs his role well, and the kids do a good job too. They don't overact; they're not trying to throw their emotions in your face. Their actions are calculated, and that also matches the tone.

In terms of understanding the human condition, morality, etc., there's not a lot to gain from this movie. One could argue that it's a cautionary tale to warn people against getting involved in sketchy situations. In the end, it's a fun late night flick with a date or some friends. It's pure entertainment, simple as that. If that's what you're going for, you'll like this movie.

It Follows (2014)

A simple but unique idea that takes audiences back to the classics

[7/10 · 28 March 2015]

From the music to the wardrobe to the set pieces to the in-camera zooms, this horror film takes us back to the 1970s and 1980s.

But that isn't the only thing that takes us back to the classics - it's also the way the story is told. We are not expected to be scared only by a barrage of jump scares or expensive CGI ghosts. Instead, we are constantly filled with the fear and dread that something is out there, lurking, slowly but inevitably approaching...

This is the way that classic horror films were presented, and it is what makes it actually good. The premise is simple, but it is interesting enough to catch your attention and hold it throughout. It stays with you after the credits roll, and you will likely talk about it in the days after you see it.

Although the supporting characters could have been developed more, I have few complaints about this movie. If you want to see a simple - but unique and stylistic - horror movie, this is for you.

Her (2013)

A breath-taking romance that makes you think

[9/10 · 13 January 2014]

This is one of those movies that leaves you deep in thought when the end credits roll. It is primarily a romance, but it has a surprisingly good mixture of satire, comedy, and science fiction that will keep you interested. The movie takes place in the near future, but it is not far-fetched and you can believe that the technology that exists here will be available in real life before long. Beautiful sets, incredible acting (especially from Scarlett), and an amazingly innovative story makes this movie deserve a 9. Spike Jonze has made a drastically different movie from "Where the Wild Things Are" with regards to plot and setting, but the raw emotion and tone remain strong.

Gravity (2013)

Innovative Thriller A Must-see

[7/10 · 5 October 2013]

Alfonso Cuaron does it yet again! After "Children of Men", I had high expectations for this film. I was worried that the trailer would fully summarize the film, but there is a lot to experience by watching the entire film. I would certainly classify this as a thriller, because space is a scary place. With good use of sound (or lack thereof), camera angles, and cinematography, this movie deserves a solid 7/10. Though the movie is intended to make the audience feel alone and isolated, I still wish that the cast was larger (or at least more developed). Other than that, I saw no issues with this movie. I keep thinking of "In space, no one can hear you scream." If Alien had not used this tag line first, I think it would have been fitting for this one.

Red Dawn (2012)

Another mediocre action flick

[5/10 · 17 March 2013]

Movies like this can be fun when you have low expectations, but they won't make you think. In fact, while watching it, you might even feel a bit dulled. Once again, Hollywood cranks out another so-so film that makes you say, "eh, at least they tried." Here are some frustrating things:

The characters are unbelievably underdeveloped. The brothers conveniently have two women to cling to, which is another predictable element of a modern Hollywood action movie: you can always be sure that there will be romance awkwardly put in somewhere. The pack of "Wolverines" consist of the main characters such as Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck, and Josh Hutcherson, and then a bunch of other people thrown in there that you can't identify well or relate to. You can easily tell who is likely to die and who is likely to live in the next shootout by how many lines they have spoken. It almost seems that these people are there to simply fill up space.

The plot accelerates too quickly. Not even a minute after the invasion, the neighborhood boys are ready to go with their convoy and supplies. It almost seems like they were waiting for an invasion to happen so they would have an excuse to fight for something. In fact, I fear a lot of young men in this country really do hope for the day that a foreign country invades so they can shoot people and be able to justify it. Not only does the plot accelerate too quickly, but the movie is not long enough. This would be more suitable for a series, but is packed into an hour and a half. This makes things rushed, and good moments breeze by.

This movie is disgustingly patriotic. The Koreans are portrayed as evildoers with nothing better to do than coerce other people into being like them. As if the American military doesn't do that in the Middle East by "establishing democracies to better the people". In fact, the Koreans barely show up in the film except for when they are targets for AK-47 bullets. Their side is not really explained, so most people just who they are by a single word: socialists.

This movie certainly appeals to young men that love guns, guerrilla warfare, and of course, the fantasy that one day they might be able to live the life of a "Wolverine", shooting up Koreans and sneaking around.

I do need to point out some positive aspects of the film, since I rated it 5 stars and not 3. I did like the blend of Hemsworth, Peck, and Hutcherson. I also think the remake did fix some of the irksome elements of the original.

Total Recall (I) (2012)

Nice CGI, but very Hollywood

[6/10 · 17 March 2013]

Like most modern action movies set in the future, "Total Recall" places special effects and long, drawn-out action scenes above story, lessons, and character development. While the setting is clever, the idea of living space being the most valuable resource is not explored much in the movie. As with most average high-budget movies, the main characters are gorgeous and are pretty easy to understand. Indeed, they have just enough depth to make the average viewer interested but not enough to make the characters live in the thoughts of moviegoers past the credits. This movie also lacks a good message. In fact, though it was supposed to keep people guessing (hence the tag line, "what is real?"), it is easy to predict how the movie ends.

The concepts of overpopulation and paying to be given memories of a life never lived are brought up in the beginning. They made me interested, but unfortunately were quickly abandoned in exchange for lengthy shootouts and on-foot chases. Despite the need for action movies to have action (hence the name of the genre), it should not be incongruous. Unfortunately for "Total Recall", lots of the fight sequences could have been shortened or eliminated without the plot being damaged.

I award this movie 6 out of 10 for good setting and excellent CGI. If not for that, this movie would deserve a 4 out of 10.

There Will Be Blood (2007)

Incredible movie, but not for all viewers

[8/10 · 30 July 2012]

You may hear that Daniel Day Lewis is responsible for making this movie a masterpiece. For the most part, that is true. His acting is some of the most phenomenal work I have seen. Considering his regular accent, mannerisms, and appearance, he really transformed himself into the character of Plainview.

That is not to say Paul Dano wasn't wonderful. His quirky character sometimes explodes with shocking malevolence just as Plainview does and works fantastically as an antagonist.

The scores are astonishingly eerie. From the moment the film begins, you see a lot of build- up that is supported by eccentric music.

The only problem this movie faces is that it does not appeal to all audiences. Some may see the movie as slow and boring because the length of some scenes matches the pace of life back in the early 1900s: much slower than today. Long silences and quiet dialogue don't usually go well with some viewers. If you are not the type to watch a long movie that takes a while to get into, I don't recommend There Will Be Blood for you.

The Grey (2011)

Both goods and bads, but a nice work of art

[7/10 · 29 July 2012]

The idea behind the story of The Grey is by no means unique, and its title does nothing to produce deep thought. However, there are still a lot of good qualities about this film that lead me to give it an 8. First I will cover the pros and then I will cover the cons.

Luckily, all the characters (except Diaz) are just intelligent enough to be realistic. Though Liam Neeson's character probably knows more than anyone would about wolves, it is important to have at least one strong leader in a story of survival.

The pacing is excellent. The duration of this movie is just what it needs to be. I never wondered when the next scene would finally come, as I do in some movies.

The makers of the film did a good job at making the suspense very intense. Along with that, they made sure the wolves only made brief appearances until the end. Though you see them momentarily, they vanish quickly. This adds to the mystery and sparks the imagination.

I did feel like the beginning before the crash was underdeveloped. We see Neeson doing his job and narrating, but this is mainly it - 10 to 12 minutes are spent watching him gaze sullenly into space. In addition, I felt that the supporting actors were also underdeveloped. Most are difficult to differentiate between and have a clear sense of who the character is, or his name for that matter. (Diaz and Burke were the exceptions, since Burke was black and Diaz was mean.)

I also rarely felt a sense of hope. As this is a drama/action/thriller, the characters should be able to gain the upper hand for at least some part of the movie. Watching this film, I saw each character get picked off one by one until Neeson finds himself in the worst of places: their den. Each time the characters trekked onward, someone died. This made deaths predictable by the end.