Cowboys & Aliens -- REVIEW

Picture this… James Bonds wakes up in the Wild West unable to recall how he got there and then ends up in a town were Indiana Jones and his son have been terrorizing its citizens into doing anything they want…  Wait, that’s not right.  Granted Cowboys & Aliens does star Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford, as well as share executive producer Steven Spielberg (Indy franchise), there is little else these heavy hitters bring to this futuristic/sci-fi western.  If only the film lived up to the overall awesomeness that the trailers teased.

Let’s look at the possibilities from a realistic point of view.  1) Daniel Craig is a total bad ass and could totally whip any aliens ass.  2) Indiana Jones was amazing when we were able to understand him (if you see Cowboys & Aliens you will understand the issue). 3) Cowboys verses Aliens is an amazing concept that has not really been done before. 4) Spielberg rarely has a bad film (this does not include the 4^th Indy, which I’ll never speak of again).  5) The aliens’ aircrafts looked amazing and gave hope to some crazy looking villains.  Now that that’s out of the way let’s get back to the review….

Cowboys & Aliens takes the concept of a western to heart as it moves as a leisurely pace that could only be compared to a John Wayne film that takes almost 3 hours to get through.  Although there is more than enough time to deliver a story, there are so many missing pieces that you’re lucky if you can walk out of the theater with the slightest clue as to what just happened.  Not only is the story missing a few crucial parts and lacking major character development, but by the end you’ll just wish that Doc Brown would suddenly fly in and urge Marty to travel back to the future just as the end credits roll.  As cheesy as that sounds, it is probably the only thing that could have possibly redeemed the film from its current state.

Thankfully director Jon Favreau found a balance between story and action that kept the audience in their seats, it’s just too bad the combination was not better delivered.  With top-notch actors, a hot actress with a tight toosh (who oddly enough we find out is not quite what we thought she was), and half-assed aliens who pack no punch (who strangely resembled the alien in Spielberg’s Super 8) it’s hard to believe more time had not been spent on fully developing this project.  Having come from a graphic novel it should have been a piece of cake since the story was practically already fully laid out and storyboarded for them, but sadly the adaptation strays far enough away from the original concept that if you miss a few crucial lines explaining who/what the aliens are you might as well forget the story completely.

The only thing that makes up for the complete confusion of the story and whether or not this film was official left with an open ending to set up for a sequel, is the recent realization that a 90s TeenNICK show actually predicted the coming of Cowboys & Aliens.   If you ever watched 'Clarissa Explains It All' you would have had your first introduction to something almost 20 years in the making.  Now I think the only question left is… Would Cowboys & Aliens have made a better 90s film than the film we have today? 

That being said Cowboys & Aliens is a decent film that will at least kill 2 hours if you have nothing better to do.

**this review was originally written for PacManandTheHotOne.com.  check out the site for more reviews and follow the link to the original posting (http://pacmanandthehotone.blogspot.com/2011/...owboys-aliens-2011.html)

HORRIBLE BOSSES -- Review

We have all, or know someone who has had a horrible boss at one point or another. That one person who makes us want to down a bottle of tequila (or whatever alcohol you prefer) by the end of the night, or just simply makes getting up and going into work the one thing that we don't wish we never had to do. But what would happen if we were some how able to get our revenge. Would you act alone or would you enlist the help of a friend to carry out whatever vicious method of revenge you choose? And how are would you go to get rid of that one person that makes your day the most unbearable event in your life? Horrible Bosses plays with this idea and delivers a level of insanity that will have the entire audience laughing from start to finish.

Horrible Bosses is a film that will make even your worst day look like a walk in the park. The amazing talents of Jason Bateman (Arrested Development and Juno), Jason Sudeikis (SNL and Hall Pass) and Charlie Day (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) only adds to the overly outrageous events that will play out before your eyes. Their comedic timing is the perfect combination of wit, sarcasm and hilarity that is only aided with the additions of Kevin Spacey who plays Kevin's (Bateman) boss, Colin Farrell who plays Kurt's (Sudeikis) boss and Jennifer Aniston who plays Dale's (Day) boss.

Personally I found Horrible Bosses to be a non-stop laugh that was an even rival to the original Hangover, and even a close competitor to the amazingness that is Bridesmaids. For the simple fact that studios are now venturing into open waters with well written comedies that can easily rival any summer blockbuster action flick is a nice change of pace in comparison to what we are used to seeing in past years. I can only hope that they let the goods things go and not try to make unnecessary sequels just to make a few extra bucks (*cough* Hangover II *cough*). Horrible Bosses is one of those films that people of all ages and backgrounds will be able to go and enjoy because everyone can release as we have all had a horrible boss at one point or another in our lives.

Biggest Highlights:
1: Don't expect anything because you don't know what's going to happen AND IT'S AWESOME!
2: Although we might be sick of Aniston these days... seeing her in this role is one that you'll be able to enjoy over and over again.
3: Never underestimate a horrible boss.

So live vicariously through Dale, Kurt and Kevin as they act out all of our dreams of revenge towards the people who have (and possible still are) made your live a hell during the hours of 9a-5p.

I give Horrible Bosses a 4.5 out of 5.

THE HANGOVER: PART II -- Review

There is something tragically sad when Hollywood feels the need to take a good thing and destroy it. Granted the failure of Part II was not an epic fail, but it was close enough to have been a complete disappointment.

The Hangover Part II is one of those films that you go into hoping for something to be delightfully surprised by, and granted there were a few jokes that were quite shocking, but the overall effect of the film did not survive the curse of unnecessary sequels. The first film was such a shock to the system that there was little wrong that could be done and no matter what your tastes are for humor The Hangover appealed to you. The wildly over the top and insanity that the wolfpack brought was a unique thing that charmed us all. Part II unfortunately took advantage of the original fans and gave us little to walk away with.

I honestly question if the final film failed because of the lack of secrecy surrounding the film as they suffered several "leaks" during the production process with regards to story and casting of cameo appearances. I have read interviews stating that director Todd Phillips respected the wishes of cast and crew to not push to keep Mel Gibson for the "surprise" cameo as the tattoo artist, and on some scale I almost respect the director for that, but in a way (regardless of my lack of respect for Gibson today) I actually wish he had been used. It would have been an "in-your-face" that the film just lacked. I missed the insane LVPD who used the wolfpack as stun gun test dummies and I feel that, although still not as great, the Gibson cameo would have been on a level appropriate for The Hangover.

Overall I was not impressed by the Part II. Too much time was spent on the "family dynamics" which were practically useless for the film. Not enough time was spent developing cameos that could have actually added to the franchise. Paul Giamatti could have been such a badass and he just wasn't utilized to the best potential for the characters and film. Liam Neeson was so unrecognizable as the tattoo artist that the cameo was COMPLETELY LOST and the joke fizzled and fell so short that the film no longer felt like it had anything to do with The Hangover. There was one additional cameo at the end of the film that was so painful to watch and listen to that I wish it had almost been left out. Actually aside from Chow and the final cameo there was little that brough the 2nd film back to the original.

I am very sad to report that I give The Hangover Part II a 1.5 out of 5. I had such hopes that the franchise would at least survive a second film, but that did not seem to be the case. I know it has been thrown around for the idea of a third installment if Part II does well, and I honestly doubt the film will do well enough. Even though my love for Galifianakis runs strong, he couldn't even save the film in his over the top insanity. My only recommendation is to pass on The Hangover this week and maybe pick it up in the $5 bin at Target/Wal-Mart.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES -- Review

When it comes to pirates there are very few things that can go wrong. Well, a lot can go wrong, but Disney has found an amazing ensemble cast that brings to life their amusement park ride to such perfection that even after four installments we have yet to get bored with the series. Truth is I sort of missed Gore Verbinski as the director, but Rob Marshall did a decent job having primarily come off of directing musical. But it wasn't just the director who left the franchise, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swan, have (THANKFULLY) moved on as well, and I was glad that there was no reference or cameo to them and we were left with only our most favorite of the characters. In 2007 I remember wondering if another Pirates film would get made, and here it is, almost 4 years later and at the risk of taking the franchise beyond the 3rd film, On Stranger Tides does not miss a beat.

With the return of Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), Gibbs (Kevin McNally) and Barbossa (Geoffry Rush), it is only a matter of minutes before you are shown the pace at which the 4th installment will be taking you on this high seas adventure. Johnny Depp reprises his character will a consistency that is amazing because it has been almost 4 years since we last saw the quirky pirate on screen, and it is as though he never left. With a slightly updated wardrobe, a few new scars and a treasure chest full of one-lines and jokes that remind you why you love this character so much. With the butting conflict between Jack and Barbossa, the rivalry between pirates is as entertaining as ever. In addition to the original characters, Penelope Cruz and Ian McShane join the cast as Sparrow's love interest Angelica and her father, the infamous pirate Blackbeard. These two characters breathe new life into the series and rises the bar to the talent and character chemistry. Although they seem to have been overlooked by press during the junkets as all eyes were turned to the new comer Astrid Berges-Frisbey who plays the mermaid Syrena, but without giving too much away, she is cute and serves a purpose but there are far more crucial characters that bring the film to life.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides brings back everything there is to love about the pirates we have spent the last 8 years with and introduces a handful of new characters, a feisty female pirate, and a witty Blackbeard that will give Jack and Barbossa a run for their money when it comes down to a battle of wits.

Highlights:
1) JACK IS BACK!

2) The opening scene is typical of the humor of Pirates and it sets the pace for the film so you know you will be in for one wild ride.

3) Ian McShane as Blackbeard is as fun to watch as his portrayal of the ruthless Al Swearenger in 'Deadwood'.

4) The final scene of the film will leave you laughing until you cry as Angelica tries to put Jack in his place.


Downside:
Don't bother catching the film in 3D. Although the film is fun, the 3D is distracting as the "blurry images" are seen regardless of actually wearing your 3D glasses.

Overall Pirates of the Caribbean: On Strangers Tides is a fun family film that will have you falling in love with pirates all over again. I give the film a 4 out of 5 and beg Disney "PLEASE GIVE US ONE MORE!"

BRIDESMAIDS -- Review

I have always wondered what would happen if all of the "dirty laundry" us women carry around was aired (or screened) in front of the general public. Not just our moments of madness when it comes to life, work, and dare I say relationships... but what if we all just let it hang out? Well, Bridesmaids does just that and it seems like there is no turning back from where this film takes it.

From the opening scene (which I will not give away) you are immediately introduced into one of the craziest WTF moments. Being about 3-5 minutes of pure uncomfortable awkwardness that you will feel with the character that will have you gasping in shock, and I'm sure that on some level EVERYONE will be able to relate to the events that are being played out, be it in a past relationship or even a current fling, and that alone sets the mood for what the rest of the film will bring you. Kristen Wiig is hilarious as Annie, and every woman in the theater will be able to relate with her and what she is going through. I know so far this sounds like it is a woman's film... and it probably is... but if you want to get a little glimpse into the mindset of us ladies (as I'm sure there are those of you out there still saying "I just don't get women") than this might just help you out a tiny bit. Of course there are moments that will turn your stomach as they are so out there that it's amazing they even made the final cut, but overall this is a down to earch hilarious and sometimes over the top "true" tale of what it's like to be a woman.

From the casting choices, to the typical ass-hole we have all (at some point) fallen for, and ulitmately the female rivalries that these ladies go through will outshine the insanity of Alan, Phil and Stu. Melissa McCarthy (Mike & Molly) is brilliant on the big screen as Megan (the groom's sister), Kristen Wiig (SNL and Paul) makes for the perfect leading lady as Annie, Rose Byrne (Damages) is hilarious in her uptight and snobby-ness that she brings to Helen as that one friend who likes to take control of everything, and Maya Rudolph (Away We Go) is adorable as as the bride Lilian and Annie's best friend. There is of course one additional actor, Chris O'Dowd (Pirate Radio), who steals the show at times just for just for being the rock that all of these ladies desperately need.

I hate that I enjoyed this film as much as I did, but sadly for me there is nothing better than watching characters that truly feel like real people dealing with things that we deal with and can truly relate to, rather than the picture perfect hollywood lives we usually are force feed in films and tv. Bridesmaids truly is the female response to The Hangover and the shock value of some of the scenes is so outragous that there is no controling the laughter or jaw-dropping reactions. It gives a punch to the stomach and a kick to the groin, but there are also moments that will touch us in unexpected ways.

Bridesmaids is one of those 'R' rated comedies that deserves to get noticed. These ladies are exceptional and if you are looking for something that will make you laugh-out-loud than this is something I recommend you check out. I just hope you all can hold your lunch as there are scenes that will challenge all of your sense. I give Bridesmaids a 3.5 out of 5.

Forever book trailer released

Maggie Stiefvater has released a trailer for the third installment to her Wolves of Mercy Falls series. Check out the trailer for FOREVER and then pre-order the book. =)



http://www.fountainbookstore.com/autograph-maggie

Fast Five Rio Premiere -- Recap

When it comes to red carpet events most people picture gorgeous men in suits and beautiful women is designer dresses, photographers and of course a variety of media outlets to catch sound bites from the celebrities walking the carpet. However every once in a while something different happens. Fast Five brought their Rio red carpet premiere to viewers around the world through live streaming, using several different outlets including Facebook, as well as streaming live to a dozen movie theaters around the country. This seems like an impressive move, but the success of the event is up for debate. Hosted by Fast Five star Tyrese Gibson and former Miss USA Susie Castillo, the red carpet ran a total of 60 minutes, although at times it felt like it was much longer. However had it not been for the over zealous Tyrese, the event would have been a massive fail.

Opening the event was an interview with director Justin Lin who had little to say outside of great compliments for the Fast family. Even after being asked several times if there was plans to be a sixth film, Lin kept mum on the subject.

Dwayne Johnson was the next star to walk the carpet. Dwayne confessed to felling very welcome as one of the newest additions to the family, but the attention quickly turned to a discussion regarding a fight sequence in the film. Tyrese spilled that the fight between Dwayne and Vin Diesel was something that will make Fast Five memorable and Johnson chimed in by saying that “they knew as a team that they had an incredible opportunity to do something”. He added that he would have loved to see Stallone and Schwarzenegger face off, only being beaten if Bruce Willis was thrown into the fight, and that the fight with Diesel was to make up for a fight of that caliber having not yet existing in film. Tyrese wrapped up the interview by asking if Vin and Dwayne were to face off in the real life, who would win? Johnson replied with “I would whoop his ass.”

Paul Walker followed and the only thing that became obvious during this round of questions was the previously unknown bro-mance that exists between Tyrese and Paul, ending with a rather long embrace shared between the two stars. Following Paul was a very awkward moment with the host of MTV Brasil, where he practically dissed a young teen who was attending the event. Needless to say this was only the beginning of the downhill turn the premiere had suddenly taken. With audio issues that plagued the remaining interviews, more awkward moments made by unprepared hosts and timing issues, it suddenly felt like a very unprofessional event and those of us sitting in the theater only hoped that the arrival of the lead star would change things for the better.

Vin Diesel arrived to the carpet in one of the movie’s matte painted Dodge Chargers. Granted this was the highlight arrival, but the interview was just as awkward as the lead up. Host Susie Castillo struggled to keep the momentum moving, and the late arrival of Tyrese was the only saving grace. The first real laugh was brought out when asked if Vin could say one thing to the Fast fans, what would it be and he answered “I live my life one quarter mile at a time,” at which point it became obvious there was a pre-party before the carpet. Trying to bring things back to a serious note, Tyrese once again asked straight up if Vin and Dwayne were to face off, who would win. Vin responded by stepping up to the camera and saying “I’m a New Yorker. I’m the last kid to fuck with.”

Unfortunately there was still another twenty minutes to go before the premiere was scheduled to end and it was a slow drag to keep things moving. With a few sneak peak clips thrown into the mix and what felt like filler interviews with the remaining cast, the only thing left to do to kill time was for Tyrese to plug Twitter accounts, Paul Walker’s company AE Performance, and a little self-promoting regarding his upcoming album. It was a little painful to watch but the few laughs were worth the hour viewing. It was a nice change to see a cast and crew so full of love and respect for each other that it almost because a bit sickening sweet. I’m not sure if live streaming is the way of the future, or if this screening was enough of a success for Universal to try it again but it will be interesting to see what happens in the future.

CHECK OUT MY REVIEW OF THE MOVIE HERE:  http://lunch.com/t/6nbf

WATER FOR ELEPHANTS -- Review

Under most circumstances I love period pieces. All of the research and work that goes into a production from start to finish that makes the film feel authentic. Wardrobe, hair styles, make-up, props, vehicles/transportation, speech, etc. All of the little things that can ultimately make or break a period piece if it is supposed to feel realistic. Right off the bat we are told that "THIS FILM TAKES PLACE IN 1931", like we are being beat over the head with that fact, which I get but I think the images you are shown give you enough to be able to come to that conclusion for yourself.

Water for Elephants is a pretty picture to look at, with potential for something quite good based on their casting choices, but the flick itself falls flat. I can't quite tell you where it missed the ball, but there is just something that doesn't feel right. It might be that the film is too short to really give it the one-two I was hoping for. It might be that the book is so dark and twisted that the studio felt it wouldn't translate well to audiences through a visual medium so they left out some of the more grusome details. It might just be that the cast did not get into the roles enough to deliver truly believable characters. All I know is that when I walked out I felt like I had spent 2 hrs watching people talk in mono-tones and wasn't sure where to go from there.

I'll be honest, I have not read the novel, and in a way I was glad because the last few films I have gone to see that were based off books let me down as they did not live up to the potential of the stories. I went in expecting Christoph Waltz to be this horribly delicious evil man, living up to the type-casting that he has been subjected to since playing Col. Hans Landa in Inglourious Basterds, but no. He was sadly not as visious as I wanted him to be. I know it's gross that I'm saying this but I wanted to see him throw around and beat Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), but no he was a bad man... but not a "BAD" man. Even Reese Witherspoon was her usual self, as she gave an average performance. Robert Pattinson did a decent job portraying a 1930s american, and it was nice to see a little color to him than the usual pale white we've been seeing for the last 3 years.

I think my biggest issue with Water for Elephants is that it is presented as a flashback film, and there is no point to it. Maybe the telling of the story in this method is pulled off in the novel, but for the film I'd rather have been unaware of the outcome of these characters than know going in that no matter how much shit they go through in the end everything turns out ok in a happy ending. It made the suspense of the film a little less effective since we knew the main characters were truly in no real danger at all.

All in all I give Water for Elephants a 1 out of 5 for effort.

SUCKER PUNCH -- Review

What happens when a guy falls asleep playing a video game - say Resident Evil or Lara Croft - who had previously spend the early morning hours playing an old throwback version of Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter? Well most likely he's dreaming of girls who can kick ass... but might somehow resemble Sailor Moon. Yeah I said it.  The Sucker Punch trailers gave off the appearance of being something cool like a post-apocalyptic version of Annie, however the reality of the film had it being nothing more than a lame attempt at creating a "hot action flick".  The lead character Baby Doll (Emily Browning) looks like the female version of Draco Malfoy in a Sailor Moon costume and although she seems to be able to fight, the over abundance of visual effects completely takes away any necessity to truly know how to act, let alone fight.  With her hair color changing from scene to scene and the "film tricks" used to transition between realities the film becomes more of a bore than an entertaining "pretty" action film.  I know this sounds harsh... BUT if you give off the appearance of being nothing more than a one trick pony I'm sure people will eventually see through the "cool" blind have up to hide the lack of... story... acting... talent... ummm dare I say lack of everything?

Sucker Punch should have been a film full of eye candy, but it left me constantly checking my watch to see how much longer I had to stay until the end.  Granted the cast of ladies was not a complete waste (and shockingly enough Vanessa Hudgens who plays Blondie did not bother me as it was a role that she did little and almost never spoke) as Emily Browning and Jena Malone hold their own throughout the film and Scott Glenn as the Wise Man starts out cool but then turns into a running joke with horrible one liners before sending the girls off into battle.

With a backdrop that changes from World War II to the set of Lord of the Rings as the ladies battle orcs (which I'm surprised Peter Jackson didn't try to sue because I'm sure they were designed by the exact same team of WETA developers used for the LotR series).  It was a cool concept, although not completely thought through.  The "bosses" that needed to be defeated in each level were interesting however not well developed as some of the story just did not connect.  I almost wish Zach Snyder had given up the film-making side and just created an amazing video game because then I would at least feel like I'm achieving something by interacting with the characters and story.

I'm sorry but all in all I can't even say that Sucker Punch is a film strictly meant to be nothing more than eye candy, because it could have been so much better.  Yes there are a few AMAZING scenes (although completely created by CGI).  Over all it felt like a better attempt at making Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (and if you've seen that movie I'm sure you get what I'm hinting at).  Sometimes an idea is better left alone and I personally feel that this is one of them.  The only thing I can say is that if you do not believe me now... go see the film and let me know what you think after you see the crap they dished out as the ending.

I give the over all film a 1 out of 5.  Visuals for Sucker Punch are a 2.5 out of 5.  Soundtrack is a 4 out of 5.  So maybe to spare yourself the pain I just endured you'll just go buy the soundtrack and wait til the film comes out on DVD.  I wished that's what I had done. 

In Memory of Elizabeth Taylor

The film world has lost one of its greats this morning.  Elizabeth Taylor was one of the talents that surpassed all others and it is with sadness that we hear of her passing.  Ms Taylor has been the guiding light for so many and she leaves behind dozens of roles that will never be matched by anyone else.  Her career spanned 6 decades and included such memorable roles as Cleopatra (Cleopatra), Katharine (The Taming of the Shrew), Martha (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?), Leslie Benedict (Giant), Maggie Pollitt (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof), and Amy March (Little Women) along with many others.  Aside from her award winning roles she has acted along side some of the greatest actors to grace the silver screen -- James Dean in Giant, Paul Newman in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and Richard Burton (who eventually became her 5th and 6th husband) in Cleopatra, Virginia Woolf and Taming.  The legacy she leaves behind is one that will continue to live on in the hearts of anyone who will ever love movies. 

Cleopatra (1963)

Little Women (1949)

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)

Elizabeth Taylor died at the age of 79.

BATTLE: LA -- Review

There is something about invasion films that always seem to bring in scores of movie go-ers, regardless of the quality of the film.. Over the last few years we have had a few great alien invasion films like District 9 and even Cloverfield, if the handheld cinematography did not cause motion sickness; but we have also has some really bad invasion films, such as Skyline, which gave the appearance that it would be good though in reality, it had NO point). Two weeks ago I Am Number Four came out, and although, not technically an attack on Earth, it is an invasion film that takes place on Earth while searching for aliens who inhabited our planet. Granted the film could have been better but it had its shining moments too. Please keep in mind I am strictly speaking Earth invasions so please, do not think of Avatar or Predators as neither took place on Earth.

That being said, Battle: Los Angeles can be classified as a decent film for what it is and will most certainly bring in the crowds this weekend. Just viewing the trailers, the film looks like a cross between Independence Day and Saving Private Ryan or perhaps a mini-series like 'Band of Brothers' or 'The Pacific'. I realize that sounds a bit like a "DUH" statement, but if you decide to see the film this weekend you will be hit over the head with that visual just as I was. Although the cinematography choices are similar to Cloverfield, providing such a bumpy ride that it almost distracts from the overall story as you tilt your head left and right in an attempt to figure out what visual is on the screen, and there is little else that the sci-fi end of the story brings to the film. I only wish that the story had been better developed, giving the viewer a better idea of what these aliens are like, but then again, the story is about humans and not the aliens.

Battle: Los Angeles is a high stress war film between humans and aliens. The filming adds to this particular aspect of the film in a way that will make for another successful sci-fi invasion film for the movie industry. I only two real issues I would like to make about this film, the first being how the 'Band of Brothers'/'The Pacific' vibe provided when introducing the characters, clearly providing the audience their names by showing text in the lower third of the screen, but honesty, the film moved so fast this added information was almost an insignificant piece of information.. I’m suspecting that there wasn’t other way for the viewer to catch the names of the character during the dialog, it being inaudible. The second issue, if you're going to make a war film, whether it be based in reality or sci-fi world, you had better make it believable. Now, granted I am not a soldier and have never had to experience war (or anything war like), I have watched a lot of TV and films involving war and every one that I have seen has shown these brave men and women swearing under pressure, however, now that the censors have been hard a work to make life merry, either the studio felt that Battle: Los Angeles to be so violent that to keep the rating of PG-13 they needed to leave out the profanity... OR the writer decided to make these boys - and girl - so righteous to not piss off their maker by using inappropriate language, as their world is being turned into a living hell.

If you are a fan of games like Call of Duty than, overall, I’d say this is the film to see as you will be able to follow the action much better than those that do not fall within this group. If, however, you have never played a first-person shooter game, you may have a difficult time keeping up with the momentum of the film. The story, for what it is, delivers, but fails to provide what is needed to raise it above any other alien invasion film. The visual effects are decent, but since the aliens are rarely seen up close and personal, I question how well they were developed, thinking perhaps that the individual’s creative ability does not provide him with enough imagination to develop aliens unlike any others that have come before. I found the best part of the film to be the joy of watching Aaron Eckhart (Dark Knight) and Michelle Rodriguez (Resident Evil, Fast and the Furious) take down so many aliens. The cast was most definitely the biggest highlight of the film. So if you are looking for a movie to see this weekend for pure entertainment, Battle: Los Angeles will do, but if you are looking for an amazing film to see, you might want to check what else is playing.

I give Battle: Los Angeles a 2.5 out of 5.

HOP ... the movie

So this weekend I spent much of my time at the movies... that being said there was one trailer that played just before Rango that grabbed my heart and held on for dear life...



Now that you have been introduced to HOP is it time for you to see the "real" trailer...



Who wouldn't love a bunny that looks like E.B.?  I wish it was April 1st already so because I can't wait for HOP.


In addition to HOP there is another Dreamworks film scheduled to hit theaters in November that I'm sure everyong will love.

Adjustment Bureau & Rango Podcast

I just completed my second podcast for Picktainment.com.  We covered three films that are opening this weekend. Push play to listen to reviews on The Adjustment Bureau, Rango and Take Me Home Tonight.

Listen to internet radio with Picktainment on Blog Talk Radio

The Adjustment Bureau -- Review

Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you had made a different choice from one you made that put you where you are today?  Maybe selected a different college then the one you attended... or turned down a job that  relocated you to where you are now... or stuck with something a little longer than you originally had to see what could happen... or even taken that right turn rather then the left you made on the way home.  Where would you be if you had made that other decision?  The Adjustment Bureau is a psychological suspense film that addresses questions like these throughout the film as it plays with the idea of fate and free will and whether or not we as humans are in control of either.

The Adjustment Bureau is an amazing film that is exceptionally written and directed.  From the moment you are first introduced to David Norris, played by Matt Damon (Bourne films and True Grit), you instantly like him -- even though he is a politician.  He is someone you can relate with and feel compassion for, and that is just the beginning.  When Elise Sellas (Emily Blunt - Wolfman, Young Victoria and Sunshine Cleaning) interrupts a rather personal moment for David the audience instantly feels the connection between the two characters.  It's a chemistry on film that I have not seen in a long time and it was refreshing to watch these two extraordinary actors compliment each other.  Even though we know that whatever is causing their instant attraction and connection will be their ultimate challenge and that is when the Adjustment Bureau steps in.

The employees of the Adjustment Bureau are great characters full of depth and life regardless of the lack of visible emotion throughout the film, with the exception of one "adjuster". Anthony Mackie (Hurt Locker) plays Harry Mitchell, who has been assigned to David since he was a young kid to try and keep him on the path that had been laid out for him but Harry makes a few mistakes and opens the door for fate to throw a few curve balls.   John Slattery (Mad Men) plays Richardson who is a straight faced "adjuster" assigned to clean up Harry's mistakes.  But it is Terence Stamp (Valkyrie and Wanted) who plays the ultimate "adjuster" Thompson who is only called in when there is no other choice. With the talent behind the Adjustment Bureau there is no question as to whether you would ever want to face a group of men like this is real life -- the answer would be no!  Although they are very well dressed and at first glance would not be accused of anything other than being businessmen they are very far from that and definitely not anyone you'd want to mess with.

The Adjustment Bureau is George Nolfi's first directed film, but his background as a screenplay writer (The Adjustment Bureau, Bourne Ultimatum, Timeline) has definitely helped him create the perfect blend of suspense, drama, and action.  You will feel every fall and hit as though it were happening to you, and because of this George Nolfi has created a perfect piece of cinema.  The images are beautiful and the acting is some of the best we have in Hollywood, and if you did not already think Emily Blunt was gorgeous I guarantee you will after you see her dance.  She is just as elegant in her speaking role as she is when she's dancing.  So if you are looking for a suspense film to catch this weekend I highly recommend The Adjustment Bureau.

I give The Adjustment Bureau a 4 out of 5.

RANGO Review

We’ve all heard the age old joke… Why did the armadillo cross the road?  To get to the… Eeeekkk! Ok maybe not, but after this weekend you will get what I’m trying to say.  Director Gore Verbinski shares a story that over flows with life due to his unusual method of recording voices by actually having his actors acting out the scenes and recording the action to create a base line for the animated characters that are soon to follow.  Rango is a film that has placed the bar so high, that one can only hope it delivers.

Rango follows the journey of a chameleon who goes from being a family pet to finding its inner strength to become the hero to a small western town named Dirt.  Having lived a rather boring life behind four glass walls, when accidently thrown from the family car out into the hot dessert, and needing to quickly find his footing in order to survive in the Wild West.  Rango is one of those unlikely heroes who spent his entire life dreaming of adventure, when suddenly he is put into a situation where he has to use his acting skills to play the role of his life!  Rango must save Dirt from drying up and prevent it from being taken over by bandits.  This little animated western can easily rival any western that has come before.

Rango is a fantastic film full of little nods to a variety of previous films that ultimately makes a transition from being a kid’s film to a film more likely enjoyed by adults.  Paying homage to a wide variety of western films, as well as some film and entertainment references easily recognized and others not quite as obvious that it is the “big kids” that will truly enjoy the film for what it is.  With a classic camp fire scene that reminds us of the great Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles, to an Apocalypse Now aerial action sequence, to a bridge crossing that rivals The Fellowship of the Ring, to a Mariachi band of owls whose reappearance throughout the film, with perfect timing, only adds to the overall hilarity of the story. There’s even a bit of Fear and Loathing visible during some of the hallucination scenes, and there is even a little nod to Verbinski’s Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.   With a quirky main character voiced by the talented Johnny Depp and a leading lady-lizard, voiced by the beautiful Isla Fisher, the caliber of talent that lends their voices to so many well developed characters almost makes you forget you’re actually watching a cartoon.  The ensemble includes Alfred Molina (Sorcerer's Apprentice) as Roadkill, who will leave you squirming in your seat; Bill Nighy (Pirate Radio) as Rattlesnake Jake, who is the epitome of a western bandit; Ned Beatty as the crocked Mayor; Abigail Breslin (Zombieland) as Priscilla, who you can identify a little with True Grit’s Hailee Steinfeld; Harry Dean Stanton (Big Love) as Balthazar; and Gil Birmingham (Twilight) as Wounded Bird, just to name a few of the memorable characters.

But if that was not enough, there is one scene in particular that will make this film a true hit.  Bare in mind this is purely for the adults in the room as it is highly unlikely that anyone under the age of 15 would appreciate what Verbinski delivered just before the end of the film, and it is at this point that I fell head over heels in love with Rango.  It is the Spirit of the West who brings the film full circle, and once you met this character will you understand the perfection that is Rango.  My only complaint is that for my own selfish desire I wish the actor chosen actually sounded a little more like the person they were portraying.  Even though I love Timothy Olyphant (Justified and I Am Number Four) who voices the Spirit of the West, and was thrilled that he was attached to Rango, I felt that they could have found someone a little more fitting.

Over all the team up between Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies was extremely successful, giving audiences of all ages a story that hit the ball so far out of the park that we are not likely to see a competitor in the near future.  It is rare these days to find an animated project that is this well developed and not from the powerhouses of Disney, Pixar or Dreamworks.  Audiences will be thoroughly surprised and impressed by the way these two companies are able to provide you with an entertaining story that is well fitted to be called a modern western, exceptional animation and characters that you can’t wait to see where the story takes them.   I suggest that you attend a showing of Rango, whether or not you have kids that provide you an excuse to attend a cartoon.  I guarantee that you will be thoroughly entertained and leave the theater wanting more.

I give Rango a 4.5 out of 5.   

The above review was originally written for Picktainment.com.  Please take a minute and follow the link to view the original posting...  Picktainment: RANGO Review

RANGO Trailer


RANGO Featurette

PODCAST for I Am Number Four

So last night I did my first podcast and got the chance to talk about I Am Number Four.  If you'd like to have a listen check out the UNKNOWN/I AM NUMBER FOUR podcast below.

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OSCARS - BEST FILM EDITING

The Oscars are quickly approaching and it seems like everyone is following "The Road to the Ocars" in one capacity or another.  With IMDB and their amazing featurette video collection that gives you amazing looks behind the scenes of this years nominees it is hard not to get distracted while at work as it is easy to spend hours watching all of the videos they have posted.  On top of that almost every entertainment outlet is jumping to post as many articles as they can about who they feel will take home the golden man this year.  I myself even jumped at the opportunity to write an article on the nominees for Best Film Editing.  Whether you are a working professional in the industry or just a fellow film go-er I hope to share a little insight into a catagory that has a tendency to go unnoticed for the true amount of work that goes into editing a feature length film.  I hope you enjoy the read...

BEST FILM EDITING NOMINEES - WHO WILL WIN?

When it comes to filmmaking I feel that there are three key points in production that can ultimately make or break a film. The first is with writing in the pre-production phase, the second is directing during the production phase and the third is with editing during the post-production phase. I know that sounds like an easy concept, but I feel that within the last few years this knowledge has been forgotten. It is not just a good story that is need or a talented director and cast, but let’s say one of those are missing, who then becomes the one person that can make something amazing or show it for what it truly is… the editor.

A skilled editor that has become a master to their craft can make a struggling actor look amazing, can turn a lack-luster story into something completely unusual by rearranging scenes or dialog, and with a little help from additional pieces within the post-production world (visual effects, color correction, audio mixing, etc) an editor can create something potentially so great that even a seasoned director might be surprised by the outcome. This year’s Oscar nominees are all pretty similar in genre, but it is no doubt that they are deserving of the recognition for their long hours in a dark room....

Black Swan is a psychological thriller that is set within the backdrop of a prestigious NYC ballet company. If you had watched the trailers closely, this film seemed to have many different faces. It was the job of an editor to create a short television spot that threw in as many interesting points to make people want to see the movie. Some thought it would be a dance film. Some thought it would have romance. While others saw it for what it was, a beautiful thriller that got under your skin and festered through our heads driving us mad by the ending credits. With so many amazing scenes, and I’m sure hundreds of hours of footage that never found their way off the cutting room floor, editor Andrew Weisblum masterfully cut together sequences that left the audience squirming in their seats from start to finish and scratching our heads as we walked out of the theater.

Giving us suspense and quick cuts when needed that drew us in to the madness that overtook the lead character. Using quick cuts and image manipulation for subliminal messaging, there seems to be nothing that this editor is not capable of doing. Having to structure his editing from scratch (as it was said in an interview the Aronofsky did not use storyboards for this film), one can only image the number of house Andrew spent staring at a computer going through sequences, fine tuning his cuts and putting finish touches on some of the most elaborate scenes to hit the big screen in several years. The scenes that most impressed me were the ballet scenes. Having come from a dance background and knowing what goes into performing Swan Lake, it was impressive to see the ballet from Weisblum prospective as an editor which the editing choices he made from wide or medium shots and cutting to close-ups to give us an impression of the stress and strain that Nina (Natalie Portman) went through and then interweaving the actual story into the ballet and still making it appear as seamless as the ballet routines themself. Director Darren Aronosky could not have asked for a more skilled editor to bring this film to life. This is Andrew Weisblum’s first Oscar nomination, but I’m sure it will not be his last.

The Fighter is a boxing drama based on real life boxer Micky Ward and his brother Dicky Eklund. Not that there is much to say about the drama portion of the story, but it was the boxing scenes that were the true giveaway to the skill and talent of editor Pamela Martin. Just imagine having to shift through 70 hours of footage that came from the 5 “HBO” cameras and then the 2-3 film cameras used to capture the action taking place outside of the ring – and that was just for the boxing scenes.

It takes true talent to be able to capture the feel of a film within a film (the HBO documentary within the come-back story) and have it flow as though it is the most natural thing in the world. It turned out that not only were we given a one-two punch by the cinematography, but the editing choices truly make us feel each of the hits taken by the seasoned actors. Pamela Martin created her own choreography through editing that made the fighting sequences flow so smoothly that it created reaction from the audience with each throw. Even the characters in-your-face attitude was made more obvious by the choices made while cutting together this film. Although I am a bit partial to Boston based films (especially when it tells an amazing story) but seeing Pamela Martin’s final cut just brings a smile to my face. The Fighter is definitely worthy of the nomination as it kept pace with other amazing boxing films that have come before (Rocky and Raging Bull).

The King’s Speech is a drama that tells the story of an English royal with a troublesome speech impediment. Under most circumstances a story of that follows someone with a stutter would come across with little potential of being anything but a bore, but that is not the case. Editor Tariq Anwar tears apart the boring and sprinkles in life and laughter to make a soon to be king’s journey to overcome his speaking challenge one that draw in the audience and holds on straight through til the end.

The combination of cutting in close-ups and quick cuts to match the rhythm and beat of the speech lessons, along with the humor of seeing a king swear profusely to get through a complicated speech is so skillfully pieced together that it keeps the story moving smoothly. It is these lessons and the final scene of the film that showcase the skill of Tariq Anwar. The King’s Speech is a film that could have rendered the audience silent, but with some creative editing left the audience with a smile and fully entertained. This is Tariq Anwar’s second nomination – he was previously nominated for American Beauty.

The Social Network is a drama based on a specific time in the life of the man behind Facebook. The dialog heavy film challenged editing team Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter to the fullest extent with grueling hours behind a computer finding the perfect combination and balance between entertainment and story. I recall an introduction for a clip at one of the previous award shows mentioning that it is a true challenge to make a story that focuses on a guy typing on a keyboard interesting, but that is just what Wall and Baxter did. The combination of a writer and director that could be called perfectionists with a unique view on story telling, and then teaming them up with amazing editors who can match the talent level across the board is truly amazing.

After sitting on set for hours taking notes and editing along the way, the overall outcome is summed up in the utter perfection seen during the opening sequence of the film. The editing combination of cuts between various takes of a multi-camera shot is something that takes time and practice, but Wall and Baxter present a scene that is flawless and set the pace for what the audience would be in for, a perfect edit. This is the second nomination for editing team Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter – they were previously nominated for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

127 Hours is a drama that tells the story of Aron Ralston’s struggle to make it through a potential deadly situation. With a story that follows the typical survival story, there is little wiggle room to make the story unique but with a creative editor on your side there is far more room to move. Keeping the pattern flowing between the story in the cave and Aron’s memories is no easy feat, and using images that are interesting to keep the story moving is one of the overall challenges. The sequencing and image choices needed to make the audience feel what Aron was going through hit home with subliminal messaging with the use of beverages or food interwoven throughout the memories, using image inserts to make the effect stronger ultimately leaving your mouth watering for something to eat or drink.

Jon Harris’ skill with the trim tool finds the perfect balance and timing for scenes that would otherwise be nothing more than another Wilson hanging out on Cast Away island. Danny Boyle’s fluid style of filming and never repeating a setup make the editing process that much more complicated and give the opportunity of any slip of the knife that much more obvious, but it did not happen. This is Jon Harris’ first Oscar nomination.

This year’s five contenders are all heavy hitters, but for many years the Film Editing category has been linked to the Best Picture of the Year winner. Right now things are leaning in favor of Tariq Anwar for The King’s Speech. I have a difficult time arguing with this choice as I myself feel the true competition this year is only between The King’s Speech, The Social Network and Black Swan. Personally I feel the talent that went into editing Black Swan should win out over all others, but due to the artistry of the film I sadly feel it has little chance if the two categories are truly tied in any way. However with The Social Network having swept much of the award season already, I wonder if it has the strength to sweep one last time. Time will only tell but I will be keeping my fingers crossed for an upset and Black Swan taking the award.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHERE THIS ARTICLE IS PUBLISHED AND LET ME KNOW WHO YOU THINK WILL WIN...
http://www.picktainment.com/blog/2011/02/road-to-the-oscars-best-film-editing/

Blog Contributor Article Review

Hey Everyone!

I recently wrote a review for Picktainment.com and it has just been published.  Yes it is a second review on I Am Number Four, but if you are interested please check out the link below.  The more hits I get the better standing my articles are on the page, so please help me become one of the highest viewed contributors. 

Thank you very much!

Hannah

http://www.picktainment.com/blog/2011/02/review-i-am-number-four/

I AM NUMBER FOUR -- Review

I have always heard that imitation is the highest form of flattery. Well I guess that means that I Am Number Four is a film meant to flatter all things science fiction and fantasy, or at least that is the impression. Granted the concept of the story is very interesting and has great potential as a film, but the images and story that is given to the audience is less than flattering.

Unfortunately I Am Number Four does not live up to its potential. With an opening scene that left some audience yelling out "What is this... just another Twilight?", and characters that look like pathetic knock-offs of other recognizable sci-fi characters I can't help but question the longevity of the franchise.  If you have never heard of I Am Number Four, you should be aware of the fact that it is a film adaptation to a young adult novel by author Pittacus Lore (which is actually a pen name used by co-authors James Frey and Jobie Hughes). Although this is set to be a series, the second book (The Power of Six) is not due out until August. That being said, if you have not read the story then film does little to help you along as it gives you little to no back story and then leaves you scratching your head with confusion so many times that your not sure what the story is.  There is no clear indication as to what is going on in the opening sequences, and by the time the story has started you question if they even had a script to shoot with.  However if you have read the book and are able to keep up with the film... I'm sorry to say this but be fair warned the story has pretty much been slaughtered.

SOME SPOILERS AHEAD: Very early on I knew things were going to be bad.  When you have to guess and hope to piece together information on your own it seems like it defeats the purpose of going to the movies a bit.  I mean think of it like this, when Harry Potter first came out no one really knew what a Muggle was, right?  But now I'm sure that every (even those who have never picked up a Potter book) know what it means.  Now, with I Am Number Four there is enough information that is extremely important and relevant to the alien worlds that are created that if you don't know what a Legacy is (magical power developed by the "gifted") or that a Mogadarians are an evil race that invaded the home planet of the main characters, than you are kinda left hanging.  There was enough time during the opening scenes to have developed this information during the voice overs that were used, but for some reason it never happened.  You are slowly fed the information over time and then have to think back to an earlier scene just to recall something that was seen or mentioned.  Even some of the characters are all over the place and not quite who they should be.  Like Herni (Timothy Olyphant - Justified and Hitman) should have a much larger role but is instead left on the side of the road to hang, or the fact that Four (Alex Pettyfer - Beastly), who goes by the name John Smith, is almost just as clueless as the audience AND THEN Six (Teresa Palmer - Sorcerer's Apprentice) shows up and she's doing things that she should not be doing.  And the reveal scenes to John's friend Sam (Callan McAullfie - Flipped) and his girlfriend Sarah (Dianna Agron- Glee) are so out of place and messed up that it just made my heart sink at how badly the production had hurt these great scenes.  But before I give too much else away I will move on...

SPOILERS OVER

With an opening scene that looks as though it was pulled from Twilight's New Moon and a complete lack of information regarding who any of the characters are, audiences are given little chance to connect with the characters and story. I understand that this is a film adaptation, and it would be one thing if the majority of those going to see the film have read the book, but that does not seem to be the case.  At the screening I attended I over heard more people questioning what they had even gotten themselves into as they had neither heard of the film and clearly had no idea it was based off a YA novel.  My biggest disappointment is how poorly they represented some of the pivotal scenes in the story.  Pittacus laid out so many great scenes that could have been built off of, while instead it seems as though the film adaptation has turned into nothing more than a parody or satire of the story.  The one-liners are so bad that they are more likely to just leave you laughing, and with the way the film is laid out it is unclear how much time is actually covered.  On top of that, several important characters are introduced and then forgotten halfway through the film only to return just before the credits roll and have performed a comlpete 180 for no explainable reason.  I can't help but wonder who had the final say on the edit.  With the number of holes that exist in the story I don't understand how Disney approved the cut and gave a release before it was truly ready.

I Am Number Four takes over an hour to develop and then ends before it can begin to redeem itself. Granted there is one amazing scene just before the end that almost makes up for all of its faults, if only you can get past the Mogadarians appearance. As I watched the film I could not help but think that the Mogs looked like poor imitations of the Romulans from Star Trek, although they were dressed in "Goth" clothes and 6" platformed boots and their faces resembled a cross between a fish and the vampires from 30 Days of Night.  It was almost a laughable offense to what those characters should have been. Unfortunately there is little else I can say about the film, but if you are able to get through the first hour I promise you will be rewarded with one amazing fight sequence when Six (Teresa Palmer - Sorcerer's Apprentice) shows up to help the main character John (Alex Pettyfer - Beastly)  fight the Mogs. I'm sure that the follow-up film will make up for all the mis-haps, if it is given a chance to survive opening weekend.

As much as it pains me to do this I give I AM NUMBER FOUR a 2 out of 5.  The film can't touch the novel.  So, if you are looking for something that is a quick read that is fun and somewhere along the lines of a Harry Potter or Percy Jackson type of story I would recommend checking out the young adult novel by Pittacus Lore.  EVEN BETTER... pick up the book at the library or book store and read it before going to see the movie.  It will help guide you through and in all honest, even though I disagree with a lot of what they did with the adaptaion, I enjoyed the film knowing all of the backstory.

Contributor to Picktainment website

To any readers out there interested in following any of my additional writing... I have recently been picked up as a contributor for an LA based website called picktainment.com.  In addition to posts and reviews that I will be posting here (and updating more frequently soon) I will also be published at the following link.  If you would like to follow me please feel free to check in with the following link to view any articles. 

http://www.picktainment.com/blog/author/hannah-depew/

The way the site works is that the articles that receive the most hits are the ones that are linked to from the home page so please help me by passing along my link and any articles you find interesting to friends that might also enjoy reading and following my work.  Also please feel free to leave comments on any of my articles.  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

GNOMEO & JULIET -- Review

To 3D or not 3D, that is the question. Okay, not really but you get the joke. Much like that weak pun, Gnomeo & Juliet has its moments to shine, before falling to pieces. The cute kid friendly take on Romeo and Juliet does a decent job introducing the classic play to children, but falls flat with many of its jokes. Unlike Shrek, Gnomeo (which is a Disney film) appears to forget what it's trying to achieve mid-way through the film. One of the reasons why so many love the original Shrek is because it took something from almost every animation we had available to us growning up and included it in the parodies throughout its story. Gnomeo (being "family friendly Disney") tried to pun its way through classic Shakespeare, but forgot the puns. It could have taken advantage of all the Disney tales that have come before and used them to create fun new jokes for kids. If only they could laugh at themselves a little, especially since they are releasing the film as a Touchtone production. Instead we get a parody of an American Beauty scene, which seems a bit out of place, if you know what I mean.


Gnomeo & Juliet tells the story of rival gnomes (the Reds and the Blues) that live in the backyards of Mr Capulet and Miss Montague, which is separated by a wooden fence. Much like Toy Story, the gnomes come to life to continue their war when the humans are not home or looking into the backyards. The play on how ridiculous some of the garden gnomes can be is brought to life when the war between Reds and Blues is nearly discovered and they must "freeze". It is not until Gnomeo meets Juliet before the real trouble starts. The only difference between the real Romeo and Juliet and this animated version is that there is only one tragic, or rather one tragically funny death for poor ol' Tybalt.

The biggest highlight for the adults in the audience will be the star-studded cast that lends their voices to the entertaining lawn ornaments. With stars like Michael Caine (Lord Redbrick), Maggie Smith (Lady Bluebury), Patrick Stewart (Bill Shakespeare), James McAvoy (Gnomeo), Emily Blunt (Juliet), Ozzy (Fawn), Hulk Hogan (Terrafirminator), Jason Statham (Tybalt) and last but not least Dolly Parton (Dolly Gnome) it is no wonder the film does, at the very least, keep us entertained. The only issue I have with the film is it does not hold up to the names attached. Like Disney films that have come before, Gnomeo attempts to include a handful of songs, but fails miserably to add anything to the story or have any significance to that being portrayed on the screen, only adding minutes to those particular scenes where they are included, making it feel like the scenes will drag on forever. I felt that the addition of the songs were nothing more than an after thought, drawn up because the original running time was too short to be considered a feature film and were the best they could come up with to fill the run time. A good example of the use of music is when "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart" was played in full, which almost mocks the use in Miramax's Ella Enchanted. If only more effort was put out to make a quality film and the budget was directed towards better writing instead of on a 3D distribution, which added nothing to the film, but at the prices one pays to view a 3D movie, add much to Disney’s bottom line.

Gnomeo & Juliet is a cute story, although a poor attempt on Disney’s part to come up with a Shrek-like film. The use of 3D is pulled off, however there is really no point to it. Unlike Yogi Bear, there are no flying turtles, bears or anything that flies at the screen for that matter. Although this was the first 3D film that did not leave me walking out of the theater with a headache, unlike the recently released Sanctum which I’m still feeling the pain. I wish studios would get over their 3D kick and just give us some quality films. Gnomeo & Juliet will entertain young children, and it’s nice to see that they are getting introduced to some classic literature, though, in Disney’s typical style, rewrites the storyline to a more family friendly tale. It is an ideal film for parents or relatives of children under the age of 10.
 
I give Gnomeo & Juliet a 3 out of 5.
 

SANCTUM -- Review

Caving seems like a cool thing in theory, but in practice I'm sure it's not all that cool (except for those special few that do it professionally).  The element of surprise and the vast unknown is terrifying enough above ground and I'm not sure I would want to put myself out there somewhere in the deep blue sea, especially if it has never been "explored" before. 

Sanctum is an adventure thriller that will keep you entertained (so long as you go in armed with a bottle of pain killers).  The setting and sets are beautiful and amazing but the cinematography is a little less than desirable.  With the framing of several scenes giving the 3D a bit of an amature feel by leaving large blobs covering entire corners which throws off the coposition and eventually has your eyes screaming in pain because they couldn't quite tell what they should be focusing on.  Keep in mind this IS NOT a James Cameron film.  He neither directed nor wrote any aspect of this film.  He is nothing more than one of the many executive producers and a BIG NAME to bring in the crowds.  Sanctum was actually co-written by first time writers John Garvin and Andrew Wight (who are actual divers which adds to the diving element of the story) and it was directed by Australian director Alister Grierson (Kokoda).

If you are seriously looking to check out Sanctum I highly recommend that you avoid the 3D screenings like the pleague.  Not only is there nothing that truly deems 3D as a necessity (sorry to disappoint but nothing comes flying at you, there are no explosions and nothing comes straight at the screen).   The story will be just as good (if not better because you can follow it) in 2D.  You will still be able to see the almost unrecognizable cast (mostly Austrailian talent and obscure actors that might soon have larger roles after this film) going through the stressful situation that is forced upon them as their one way out because unaccessible and they must go in search for a new way out through an unknown path.  The sets created are amazing and you will enjoy them for what they are, but there is no need to pay the extra money to see a little extra depth in what we already know is a HUGE cave. 

For all of the pain that the 3D created for me, I will say that the film itself had some very good elements to it as well.  The adventure of cave diving and the stress it puts on those participating in the extreme sport is definitely felt by the audience.  The cast does a great job of making you feel what they are going through (I only wish that Mr Fantastic (Ioan Gruffudd) had not been casted as Carl because he was the weakest of all the characters).  Sanctum even gives you a few chair squirming scenes that left me turning my eyes away from the screen.  I would say tht if you are looking for something that will have you on the edge of your seat, Sanctum will give you that.  It is a film to see in theater as it has some amazing visuals of the world beneth the surface, but if you are looking to beat the weather or just enjoy a movie look for theaters not showing it in 3D. 

I give Sanctum a 3.5 out of 5... but Sanctum 3D a 1 out of 5.  If only the world would get off its 3D kick, then we could all be happy.  **Here's hoping**