The Oxford Murders (film)

Earlier in the week, I was looking for something to watch.  after a long debate, I finally decided to go ahead and watch The Oxford Murders.  It had a strong cast with Elijah Wood and William Hurt.  Revolving around on murder and mystery, I figured I couldn't lose on this one.  The Oxford Murders became an engaging and unique film, in a most unexpected fashion.

Martin, Played by Elijah Wood

The Oxford Murders stars Elijah Wood as Martin, a grad student from the states.  He is hoping to further his work under Arthur Seldom, played by Hurt.  Seldom is a well renowned and highly respected professor but is also a recluse, shying away from any public attention. Martin resides in Julia Eagleton's home as a renter.  Eagleton is a dear friend of Seldom, a tidbit Martin is fully aware of.  After coming back to Mrs Eaglton's house, after being humiliated during a lecture held by Seldom, Martin is surprised to find Seldom is there on the front porch also.  As they both walk in, they make a grisly discovery.  Julia Eagleton has been murdered.  Piecing together what little they could, Martin and Seldom find they are caught in a web of mathematics and deception, as a serial killer is on the loose and leaving bodies as clues for a greater message for the pair.

William Hurt as Seldom

Good - When is comes to acting chops, The Oxford Murders is top tier.  Hurt and Wood bring their best to this flick.  The back and forth they have feeds each other.  They play off each other very well.  Still, the film is about Martin and how he can learn from Seldom's mistakes.  Hopefully, Martin does not become the jaded old codger that Seldom has become.  The focus is more on Martin, as he tries to figure out the balance that Seldom never did.  Seeing these two acting greats together is just plain fun and intriguing.

Bad - The plot is not something  would consider bad.  In fact, I really enjoyed it.  But it can be conceived as being convoluted or too complex.  It can be hard to follow for someone not paying attention.  So this is more a warning then a complaint.  If you plan on watching this movie, and I think you should, make sure you are paying attention.

The pair making a gruesome discovery

Overall - I really liked The Oxford Murders.  It was not at all what I was expecting.  Despite the title, this is less a murder mystery and more a cautionary tale for the obsessed.  Seeing Hurt and Wood really get into both their characters and the interaction between themselves really pushes this film into a high pedigree. I recommend this film for sure.  4 out of 5 stars.

Similar To: Pi, Deathnote

Like Crazy (film)

After watching The Parks of being a Wallflower, I was inspired to continue the trend of young love.  A friend recommended watching Like Crazy as a slight change of pace.  Despite falling into the young love category, it's was a darker and bittersweet tale. A sharp contrast to The Parks of Being a Wallflower.

Jacob

Like Crazy is about Jacob and Anna, two college students who find themselves falling head over heels for each other.  Anna is originally from England and is studying in the L.A. area.  Jacob and Anna begin a wonderful love affair.  In time, Anna has to head back to the U.K.  So madly in love, she stays past her visa time limit.  This seemingly innocent lapse of judgement follows the pair for the remainder of the film, as they struggle find a way to live with an ocean between them.  The love they first felt follows them everywhere they go and they struggle individually to find a way to live with such a huge part of themselves missing.

Good - Like Crazy was a tough film to watch.  By tough, I mean challenging, more so then being bad.    The love and adoration between Jacob and Anna is touching and charming.  At the beginning, the love they share gives you hope.  Seeing them struggle later to recapture that magic feels justified.  You are there with them when everything clicked in the beginning.  And you want them to get it back.  The challenge of the film is knowing how cruel reality can be.  Despite the effort, despite the patience, Jacob and Anna look to be on the losing side.  The reward of a fairy tale love just seems too far.
If this all sounds depressing, it is.  You have a heart! Watching Like Crazy was powerful in it's portrayal of blind young love meeting reality in head on.

Anna

Bad - It was tough to watch Like Crazy at times.  I felt there were a large number of scenes of seeing various couples just snuggling and general PDA.  I understand this was mostly likely to show the innocence and intimacy of the affection that was present.  Still, it got to be grating.  For a 90 minute movie, I feel about 20 minutes were scenes of Jacob and Anna being gushy, with no real dialouge or plot progression.  I hate that stuff in real life, so seeing it in a film that's meant to entertain was quite annoying.   Other then that, I can't find anything bad enough to write about.

Jennifer Lawrence shows up as Sam

Overall - I recommend this film but under certain conditions.  Don't expect to be uplifted after watching this film.  It doesn't have a happy ending, to say the least.  The way you listen to depressing music when you're down, Like Crazy is the film equivalent.  It is powerful but you need to make sure you handle this film responsibly.  3.5 out of 5 stars.

Similar To - The Pursuit of Happyness

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (film)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower had recently become available on Netflix.  A close friend had seen it in theaters and highly enjoyed it.  He had read the book many years ago, regaling how he literally couldn't put the book down and read the whole thing in one sitting.  The movie, he opined, was a very good adaptation, which was to be expected.  The author not only transcribed the screenplay but also directed the film.  This was as close as any project would get to be the original author's intended vision.  With all that on the plate, along with a darling Emma Watson, I decided to give it a go.  It took some time but I ended up quite enjoying this one. 

The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows Charlie.  Charlie has just entered the social hell that is High School.  Still reeling from the suicide of his best friend and his own struggle with depression, he sees high school as another punishment for existence.  He casually befriends Patrick, who in turn leads him to his stepsister Sam.  Charlie learns to navigate the world slowly, finding himself in taxing situations he is emotionally unprepared for.  It's a coming-of-age tale for those who are already broken to begin with.

Good - This was a both heartbreaking and heartwarming film.  We know Charlie is struggling right away. That he hasn't figured things out quite as fast as those around him.  And not because he is slow but because he is able to see the grander picture before most others.  Charlie has been dealt some crushing blows, all relatively close to each other.  Still, you root for him.  He hasn't given up.  He is trying and he puts himself out there.  That's more then I do now.   You come to admire him and the simple triumphs he has.  The movie follows his first year in high school and the plot mirrors that in a realistic way.  He has his first crush and then his first girlfriend later.  He goes to the Sadie Hawkins Dance.  He sees his new friends graduating.  It makes the film more true to life. 

I most enjoyed the end.  I was asking at points "So when does the good stuff start happening?" Maybe I didn't get the movie but that was how I felt.  Still, the movie got me to come around near the end.  Things were wonderfully put together.  The story quickly became very real but yet very hopeful too.

Bad - The movie was a bit slow going into it.  I was multitasking while I was watching to so I thought maybe I was simply being distracted.  Once I had finished up though, I still felt a disconnection.  The characters are quite unique and real but something was missing.  Near the end though, I felt much more into the movie and really enjoyed it.  If nothing else, just be prepared for a slightly slow start. 

The gang enjoying their final school day of the year

Overall - I enjoyed The Perks of Being a Wallflower.  It took a little time for it to build up but it came together quite well in the end.  The placing and foreshadowing were subtle and well placed.  I also enjoyed who the resolutions came about near the end, one after another.  It gave time for each climax to hit and land and settle before going on to the next one.  If you're feeling down or lost, I say this is the film for you.  It's honest and hopeful, insightful and inspiring, all in a delicate and raw voice. 4 out of 5 stars. 

Similar To: The Breakfast Club, Daydream Nation,

The Giant Mechanical Man (film)

Look it up on IMDB

For this week, I was trying really hard to write a new review.  My problem was I had no idea what to write.  There wasn't anything specific calling out to me.  So after spending way too much time debating and comparing, I picked The Giant Mechanical Man.  It didn't seem particularly interesting, but it had Jenna Fischer in it, and Netflix had guessed I would give it 4 stars.  So I took the gamble.

Janice, played by Jenna Fischer

The Giant Mechanical Man, directed by Lee Kirk, stars Jenna Fischer as Janice and Chris Messina as Tim.  Two 30-somethings trying to figure out how to fit in the world, if they do at all.  Tim is a street performer, trying to find a way to make a living from his one talent.  At her wits end, Tim's girlfriend leaves him, forcing Tim into a state of confusion and aimlessness.  Janice is trying to figure out where she can do any good for the world.  Fired from the temp agency she works at and evicted from her tiny city apartment, she is forced to stay in her sister's house.  The sister tries to set her up with a pompous author (Topher Grace). Tim and Janice, both down on their luck, get jobs at the zoo.  Soon a friendship begins budding and eventually blooms into a full romance.

Chris Messina as Tim

Good - This film was very enjoyable.  I actually was dreading watching this.  Based on the plot description, I was expecting a grown up version of Tiny Furniture.  Which I loathed.  Instead, I was treated to some great performances by Fichser and Messina.  They both were very charming and endearing, key traits you need in a movie like this.  It's the difference between the audience loving or hating you.  You really feel for them and want them to be happy, no matter what it takes.  Quite an acting feat.

Another really great trait about this film was the plot and direction.  Janice and Tim are both genuinely confused why people can be so callous and mean.  Kirk was really able to show that.  We see the world though Janice and Tim's eyes, as opposed to seeing something else, and thinking both of them are just overly sensitive.  We see how careless people can be with their words. The plot was rewarding in its ability to maintain some pleasant tension.  In a way, there are two stories going on, but both involve Janice and Tim.  It's fun and exciting to watch how things shake out for them.

Lastly, it's not explicitly said, but the filmed was shot on location in Detroit and Royal Oak.  So being the local Detroiter I am, it was fun trying to see where they were. 

Janice and Tim enjoying each other's company

Bad - For the mood I was in and the expectations I had beforehand, I was very pleasantly surprised with The Giant Mechanical Man.  I have nothing negative to say.

Working away at the (Royal Oak) zoo

Overall - I recommend this film.  It's fun, uplifting, hopeful and a really good date movie.  It is nothing ground breaking or award winning but is rewarding to watch.  The Giant Mechanical Man should be in your queue and watched at some point.  Soon, for you love birds celebrating Valentine's day!  4 out of 5 stars. 

Similar To - Juno, Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, (500) Days of Summer, Garden State

Daydream Nation (film)

Look it up on IMDB

Caroline

I decided to watch Daydream Nation because I wanted some light fare.  I wanted a film that fed into my need for nostalgia, as I reminisced of high school.  Also, it helped greatly that Kat Dennings was staring in this film.  She isn't the greatest of actresses but she always plays interesting roles and is very easy on the eyes.  So with all this, I went into Daydream Nation.  What I came out with was nothing to write home about.  Instead, I'll write to the Internet.

Daydream Nation follows Caroline (Kat Dennings) as she is has found herself in a new town and new school.  Having been exposed to so much more culture in her previous life in the city, Caroline feels she was suffocating mentally in her new local.  A moody teen unsure of what she truly wants, she uses her feminine wiles to ensnare her English teacher, Mr. Barry Anderson (Josh Lucas).  Put off and cautious at first, Anderson becomes more and more enveloped in his unspeakable affair, mining excitement and inspiration from it.  Concurrently, Thurston (Reece Thompson), finds himself dealing with more then he ever expected.  A recently deceased friend, stuck living in the quiet sleepy hometown of his and meeting Caroline all bring about a flurry of emotions that Thurston's adolescent mind is incapable of handling.  All this, mixed with a unending tire fire and a serial killer on the loose, make Daydream Nation a film with many conflicts that need to be resolved.

English Teacher Anderson

Good - I wasn't expecting much from this film going in and it was probably for the best.  I enjoyed the dialogue from Caroline best. She seemed like an interesting character with some depth.  Anderson and Thurston just came off is confused little boys, despite the differences in age.  They seemed weak and lost and didn't appeal to me at all.  On the other hand, that may have been the whole point.  Nonetheless, these characters did not resonate with me at all.
There were some amazing shots in the film was well, specifically the surreal moments used to convey flashbacks or distant locations.  It reminded me of Dreamhome.  It was gorgeous stuff.  But not enough to make up for the characters.
The story itself was okay.  There were many plot threads throughout the movie.  All of them were all tied nice and neatly together at the end too.  I felt that some parts dragged on a bit though.  Overall, I felt like Daydream Nation had elements from different stories all crammed into the same hour and a  half.

Thurston

Bad - I really wasn't drawn into this movie.  The story on paper seems like a sure fire it.  There is a great deal of development, both in terms of plot and characters.  I think the movie suffered from just bad acting.  Anderson seemed more lost and douchey then he needed to be.  And Thurston seemed so completely whiny that I was glad whenever something bad happened to him.  The characters made no indelible mark on me and for that the whole movie suffered.

Overall - I wasn't impressed by this movie.  I wasn't expecting much and got exactly that in return.  Kat Dennings did a great job in her role as Caroline and the plot really had some fun, interesting moments.  But the rest of the cast was weak enough that I didn't feel like I was rewarded for sitting through this picture.  I say pass on this film if given the chance to watch it.  2 out of 5 stars.

Similar To - Juno, American Beauty, Donnie Darko

Watch it on Netflix

The Adventures of Tintin (Film)

Click the poster for IMDB 

So, it was late at night and I was in the mood to watch a movie before bed.  A common ritual that helps me slowly clear out my Netflix queue and helps get me relaxed before bed.  While trying to find a suitable title, I saw The Adventures of Tintin had become an instant play option.  Feeling in the mood for something light, I went for this one.  I figured I would watch half now and half later.  I ended up staying up and losing sleep so I could watch this surprisingly fun action romp!

Tintin and Haddock trying to think of their next move

The Adventures of Tintin follows well known journalist Tintin and his resourceful dog Snowy as they are haphazardly involved in an unexpected adventure.  An innocent purchase of a vintage model ship leads Tintin to have his flat ransacked and his life threatened.  Being the investigating reporter he is, Tintin had to get to the truth of the matter.  This leads him to the the trail of a man named Sakharine.  Sakharine is out trying to find clues to a kings ransom in treasure.  While in pursuit of both Sakharine and the truth, Tintin makes a new friend in the drunkard named Haddock.  Together, they try to outwit and outrun Sakharine whenever they can.

Likes - I wasn't entirely sure what to expect with this film.  I knew it had a long history in the comic world but I had no clue what Tintin was about.  When I began this movie, the very first thing that struck me was the animation.  I had never seen anything so lifelike and fluid. It took sometime to get past the sheer depth of realness of this film.  The way bodies moved, cars rolled by, and fog settled on the streets, it was all done so realistically.  Tintin, if nothing else will amaze you on how gorgeous it is.

Once the shine and glen has worn off the animation, you will see Steven Spielberg has crafted a fun, humorous, and action packed adventure.  The scenes on the boat where Tintin and Haddock first meet are great. The scene later on in Begghar was superb.  The pacing and density of the action scenes amazed me how they transitioned so well from one character to another.  It left me throughly impressed. The dialog is great as well.  There is a slickness that you usually get with a Bond film. 

Look it up on Wikipedia

Dislikes - There were no dislikes with this film.  None at all.

Overall - I was blown away how good this movie was.  As I stated earlier, I stayed up to watch this film.  I was so invested and excited with it I had  to see it all the way through.  For adventure fans, Indiana Jones fans, Comic or animation fans...really anyone. you will really enjoy this great movie.  I give it 5 out of 5 stars folks!
And even better news! The sequel looks like it's coming sooner then expected. Score!

Similar To - Any Indiana Jones film

Review: Bernie (film)

Check out the Wiki Link Here

Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLaine)

Hi everyone! It's been a spell since I last wrote anything.  I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! Mine was really good.  It only got better since I had extra time to read comics and watch movies! Bernie was one recommended to me by my friend Lee.  That, along with the fact Jack Black was in it only made me more anxious to watch it.  It was recently available as instant stream on Netflix.  I seized the opportunity and decided to finally see what this story was about.

Bernie follows Bernie, a local mortician in a small town.  Bernie seemingly came out of nowhere.  He had an amazing knack for connecting to people, taking the time to show people someone still cared.  In the small town of Carthage TX, it didn't take long to gain a revered reputation of being a kind man.  One such lady he came across was Majorie Nugent.  Marjorie was known for her cruel, mean streak.  No one had any desire to be near her in any capacity. At the death of her husband, Bernie began an interesting relationship with Marjorie.  A relationship no one had the bravery, or some might say stupidity, to initiate. A relationship which would lead to her untimely death.

McConaughey being douche-y. 

Likes - Bernie plays off as a mockumentray.  The majority of the film is based on interviews of the local townsfolk.  I haven't confirmed if they are true towns' members but they do an amazing enough job that I was convinced they were.   Jack Black does a great job playing the unique character of Bernie. Bernie is very much not the typical Jack Black role, but still, is something Black can easily handle. Bernie was a man willing to help anyone in any capacity, sometimes to his own detriment.
Matthew McConaughey also did a great job of playing Danny Buck, the D.A. trying to convict Bernie of this crime, a very unenviable task.  The town was so in love with Bernie, no one would be willing to hold him to any crime he committed.
Ultimately, the story is the real star.  This was such a strange story and knowing it was true only adds to the weight.

Click here for the IMDB Link

Dislikes - I would have liked to seen more of Black, but thats only because I love him so much.  I felt that the lack of screen time for him was a great choice of restraint and ultimately serves the story.

Bernie (Jack Black) being the kind man he naturally is.

Overall - I really enjoyed this film.  As a Jack Black fan and as a movie fan, this was very unique and interesting tale.  I am glad I didn't see it in theatre because I don't think it would be worth the ticket price.  Still, it was worth seeing and I may even watch it again soon.  For those looking for something quirky and not entirely deep, this is a great find.  A great way to spend a Sunday evening even.  I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Similar too: Stranger then Fiction, Louie

Red Riding Trilogy: Part 1 1974 (Film)

Click Here To watch it on Netflix

Red Riding is a unique trilogy.  The three parts are loosely tied together, primary on catalyst and location.  In many ways, each film is a different aspect and introspection to the Riding districts of Yorkshire.  Each film ties in real life crimes to create it's conspiracy laden fiction.  This film looked very interesting to me for it's unabashed British cast and diction.  Since the first one starred current Amazing Spider-Man, I figured there would be some good things to see.

Check out the Wiki page

Red Riding 1974 is directed by Julian Jarrod and set in Yorkshire 1974.  We follow young reporter Eddie Dunford, played by Andre Garfield.  With the on set of a new story, a young girl is missing, Eddie begins his own investigation.  He quickly finds evidence that this is a unique case.  In fact it may be part of a bigger case.  As he delves more into his search, he meets Paula Garland (Rebecca Hall).  Paula's daughter was one of the missing girls.  Soon, the two find themselves becoming intimately involved with each other.  This is not acceptable to the higher powers of the street.  Namely John Dawson, played by Sean Bean.  Things slowly but surely spiral out of control has Eddie is trying to piece things together, even as he is falling apart. 

Eddie Dunford chatting up Paula Garland

Good - This was a strong yet subtle movie.  It takes some time to figure out what is happening.  And it takes some time to know exactly who it is you want to succeed.   These traits of the film follow well with the movie.  Like real life, we may have all the pieces but it still takes time to get them all together, to make them fit, and see the big picture.  This is a film that demands multiple viewings.  And likewise, who never know who is truly for you and who is for themselves.  So I enjoyed those aspects of Red Riding 1974.  The colors of this film were very dark with low contrast.  It really helped with the atmosphere of the movie, that a stark reality was enfolding you.  All the characters were acted out well, making it a film you could get lost in. 

Bad - The British dialogue is very British, making an American like me a few moment were i didn't know what was being said.  This film series was made for U.K television though and I'm glad they didn't water it down. 

One of the missing daughter

Overall -  I really enjoyed this film.  This is a film that expects the audience to keep up and follow.  And it gives a big pay off for those who stick around.  For fans of conspiracy theories, whodunits, and tragic heroes, check out this great Brit Flick!  4.5 stars out of 5. 

Atrocious (film)

I had been getting Atrocious as a recommendation for some time.  I read the reviews and wanted to watch something on the shorter side of things.  Finding out this was a found footage horror film that wasn't terribly long, I had every reason to spend an evening watching this film.

Eldest Son Christian

Atrocious follows Christien and July (pronounced Julie), brother and sister, while their family is away at their mother's childhood home.  Avid amateur ghost hunters, they had been tipped off about legends concerning the woods nearby.  A young girl, Miranda, was lost in the woods and never found.  Some stories say she will lead those who are lost in the woods.  Others say how she is seeking revenge for her own lost life.  During their search for the paranormal, a much harsher reality rears it's ugly head.
Likes - I liked what was done with this film.  It's not for everyone though.  To begin with, I really enjoy the found footage approach and Atrocious approached this tactic better then most.  The filming felt much more natural to what a person would film while in a panic or were distracted.  There are moments of long pauses and when they are running, with only trees and brush in sight.  Not being able to see the cause of the commotion adds a greater depth of benson and terror.  Atrocious made you scared for what you couldn't see.  They also incorporated news reels near the end, adding to the idea of how real and well known the event was.

July

Another aspect of the film I enjoyed was the pacing.  This was a slow burn type of film.  It takes it's time to build up the scares.  I appreciated that.  I don't like slow moving films, but I think the molasses run with this film is to it's advantage. Once the shit hits the fan, things happen so fast you can't process what's going on.  Hell, the film itself revisits parts so you can see what actually happened.  This is definitely a film you have to pay attention to while watching it.

Young Josè

Dislikes - There isn't nothing I didn't like about this film.  It's not new in anything of it's method or story.  Things were just executed well.  It does it's main job well - scaring you.

Overall - I think this is a great film.  A part of me wants to say this is what Paranormal Activity wanted to be.  It's thought out and believable on many levels, making it much scarier.  You are there in the rooms, lost in the dark with Christain, unsure what's happening.  You are with July as she tries to navigate the woods her mother told her to stay out of.  You are there, in the middle of it all, scared of what will happen to you.  That is how it should be done! 4 out of 5 stars.

Review: Pontypool (film)

Pontypool was recommended to me while out drinking with friends, new and old.  After watching the mess that was In Dreams,  I wanted to watch something that was worth my time.  I went with Pontypool and I was quite impressed.

Stephan McHattie as Grant Mazzy

Lisa Houle as Sydney Briar

Pontypool follows Grant Mazzy, a shock jock out of his element.  For reasons not fully explained, his over-the-top nature has forced him to the rural and remote town of Pontypool.  On his way into the studio, a stranger comes to his car stammering "blood", and seemingly evaporates into the winter darkness.  Disturbed but not undeterred, he heads into the radio station.  There, he begins his normal cast, trying to wake up the sleepy town smothering him.  As the broadcast moves on, he slowly comes to realize that the townsfolk are being consumed by some unknown force.  As he and his crew try to piece things together, they realize they can't keep up.  Too much is happening and not enough clues are coming in.  Before long, they realize the most important thing to hold onto is not information, but their lives.

Likes - Pontypool was a surprisingly intelligent movie.  It didn't rush into it's subject like a sprinter.  It took it's time, allowing you to get used to the Canadian world you were a citizen of for an hour and a half.  We get to know Mazzy, his need to push the limits and the cost he paid for it.  We meet Sydney, has she is just trying to do her job and keep her tiny town moving forward.  We meet Laurel-Ann, a recently returned war vet and hero.  The plot takes it's time, going from a sleeping pup to raging beast.  It's a smart way to get you into the story without rushing too fast and turning you off.
Another great aspect I enjoyed about Pontypool was the blood, guts, and gore.  There was some in key parts in the later half of the film. Overall though, it wasn't much on that.  Hell, you don't see anyone get eaten even! Yet Pontypool manages to get under your skin, and it takes it's time to slither around.  You become concerned, then worried, then confused.  All without seeing a thing in the outside world.  As the radio crew is trying to piece together what's happening, so are you.  This is a masterful way of creating a tension that leads to terror, with nary a drop of blood spilled.

Georgina Reilly as Laurel-Ann Drummond

Dislikes - There isn't anything I can take away from this and say I didn't like it.  It was well acted and filmed well.  Plot is paramount in this film genre but the director, Bruce McDonald, still made the film visually interesting to watch.

Overall - I highly recommend this film, especially to horror and zombie film fans.  This was a great example of how far you can take a film using very little.  This is a memorable film and I dare say, this could even be influential, in both its subject matter and execution.  Personally, this is one I'll be talking about for months.  5 out of 5 stars.

Review: In Dreams (movie)

In my never ending quest to see every movie ever made, Netflix recommended I watch this film released in 1999.  I should have said no and saved it for a later time. Being the intrepid sloth that I am, I decided to give this crazy, unfocused film a chance before bed.  It didn't pay off.

Annette Bening as Claire Cooper

In Dreams follows Claire Cooper, played by Annette Bening, a doting mother.  She and her husband have hit a rough patch when she finds some evidence showing he, Paul Cooper played by Aiden Quinn, being unfaithful.  Before they can resolve anything, their young daughter, Rebecca, becomes lost after a very strange but cute outdoor play of Snow White.  The girl who played the evil queen, by the way, was oddly appropriate with her crazy fit of childish rage.  It's worth watching the film for that alone!  While waiting to find her daughter, we find out Claire has visions in her dreams.  Visions that come true! Spooky!!!! These visions come directly from the man who has taken her daughter.  She learns that her daughter is not the first nor last victim of this disturbed killer.

Likes -  The only thing I really liked were the special effects.  There were not many displays of it but the transitions between being awake and being in a dream for Claire were good. The final scene were the killer, Vivian Thompson played by Robert Downer Jr., is haunted is also excellent.  Thats really about it.

Dislikes - This movie was a crazy mess of insanity.  The first half was focused on how bat shit crazy Bening could be.  She pulled off an amazing job in being absolutely ridiculous and lacking credibility.  The later half, we see RDJ mixing his confidence and calm demeanor with the musings of a maniac.  Between the two, I felt more scared of RDJ, rightfully.  Bening made me feel bad for women in general.  Her performance totally discredited her gender by acting so irrational and over the top.  Look, I get crazy and being driven beyond what you can handle, but from the very beginning Bening portrays her character as some delicate house wife who never learned to deal with anything more strenuous then not being able to go to the grocery store on time.  I felt such a portrayal of women was inappropriate for 1999. It makes no sense to me how Bening goes from zero to psychotic idiot in 10 minutes.

Also, the major plot point of why the killer can invade Claire's dreams is never really explained, except for they have the same power.  This is just lazy to me.  I can totally see there being a connection between them but there is no attempt to even try to create a psychic link. The overall plot just seemed rushed and made little sense how they got from point A to point B.  It's like they were borrowing sets from other films that were never broken down and tried to make something cohesive out of it.

Robert Downey Jr as Vivian Thompson

Overall - This was an interesting film.  I watched it because I felt the cast was really strong.  For this film though, it seems the big players simply phoned it in.  No one really delved into their character.  The audience is bludgeoned immediately with the neuroses of these poorly developed characters.  This was good to watch only for the fact it shows so many things that can go wrong.  For the purpose of entertaining, In Dreams does so by simply showing you the worst case scenario of an actor/actress not giving a shit.  In terms of a decent plot or character development, I would look elsewhere.  1.5 out of 5 stars.

Review: Exit Through the Gift Shop (film)

In an attempt to kill time and avoid some real work that needed to to be done, I decided to watch yet another film.  I had already seen Our Idiot Brother earlier today.  It was good but not worth writing.  After avoiding Exit Through the Gift Shop for awhile, feeling I was never in the mood, I decided to stop being a wuss and jump into this story.  Man, was I putting off a nice payoff.

Exit Through the Gift Shop is a strange and interesting tale, encompassing Theirry Guetta and his obsession with street art.  Things begin with how Thierry needed to film his whole life.  Soon, he become exposed to the world of street art. Two obsessions, now crashed together, created an experience for Theirry no one else had.  Documenting art that wouldn't last for a day, Thierry was the historian for a modern movement.  Events progress into a strange twist as Thierry soon becomes the artist he had been obsessed with for so long. 

Likes - The first thing I really enjoyed about this film is the initial documenting of the street art movement.  You are exposed to an amazing underground world, focused on pure expression and avoiding capture to paint another day.  You see some amazing pieces and the efforts made to put them up.  

Another great aspect of the film are the people in it.  Theirry, Banksy, and Fairey all are interesting, honest people with interesting takes on art.  Banksy and Fairey are at it from the beginning, before money was ever in the picture and fame was a consideration.  Eventually Thierry comes in and does the art and is loved for it.  Yet, he earns no respect from the street art community.  Much like most celebrities, he gives people what they want and expects people to make up for his shortcomings and poor planning.  Exit Through the Gift Shop is as much about credibly and fame as it is about art.

The last major facet I enjoyed is the dry humor in the film.  Though touted as a documentary, it is anything but.  The moments you wanna laugh, feel free too.  That was the point!

Dislikes -  I didn't dislike anything with this film.  It was subtle, informative, and overall entertaining.  I wouldn't sit in a theater or watch this with a group. For my desire to kill time and have a laugh though, this was perfect.

Overall - This was a very good, fun film thought nothing outstanding or ground breaking.  Still, it was a perfect introduction to street art and an overall movement that needs to be under the radar to exist.  Look up Mr Brainwash in Wikipedia too.  It'll make you really think about what Exit Through the Gift Shop was really about. 

Review: Everything Must Go

I love Will Ferrell.  I can unashamedly admit this.  So when I saw he was doing a film a little different from his normal roles, I had to jump on it.  Ferrell is a great actor when he wants to be, his work in Stranger Then Fiction as one example.

Everything Must Go begins with the worst day in Nick Halsey's life.  He gets fired from his job of 16 years after one too many screw ups, many related to his alcoholism.  He returns home to find all his possessions strewn about his front lawn.  He tries to get inside his home, only to find every lock and key code changed.  By state law, he is able to stay on this lawn for up to 5 days.  Nick is forced to hold a pseudo yard sale, while he figures out what to do next in his life.

Likes - Everything Must Go is not at all the comedy I was expecting.  I will be up front about that now.  Still, I enjoyed this film.  As I've stated before, expectations of a film can greatly effect the viewing experience.
Back to the point, this film was good but not great.  There was a subtlety in the story that was present throughout most of the film.  This is key because it makes the outbursts seem so much more real and extreme.  We really feel the frustration in Nick just boil over into a sheath of absolute helplessness.  Will Ferrell is great and it's really nice seeing him really act, as opposed to acting out like a child.
This story isn't new - a man, down on his luck, looks for a way back to his humanity and dignity.  What this film set out to do, it did well.  Everything Must Go was a real 'slice of life' pice done right.   The movie wasn't innovative by any means and it might even be forgettable to some, but it made you real feel something.  A great effort was made to develop the relationship between Nick and his various neighbors, each one trying to help Nick out in their own capacity.  Kenny, Samantha, and Frank each show a unique side of Nick, creating a multi-dimensional image of this man, instead of a paper thin perception from just one person.

Dislikes - For this film there was nothing in particular I disliked.

Overall - I enjoyed this film.  It was nice seeing Nick find his way back, even after a plot twist really puts the pressure on.  It was also a pleasure seeing Ferrell play a role that requires some restraint and talent.  I give Everything Must Go 4 out of 5 stars.

Review: The Ward

It's HALLOWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNNN!!!!!.....So I tried finding a new American horror film to watch.  I was only able to find this here.

The Ward follows Kristen as she is inexplicably sent to a mental ward after setting a barn on fire.  Upon her arrival, she becomes acclimated into the small world that exists inside.  She meets the other patients, pisses the staff off, and randomly encounters a woman covered in darkness trying to kill her.  This film turns out to be a ghost story...or is it? (Insert spooky laugh)

Likes - The Ward wasn't a stand out innovative film, so it's hard to point out anything major that I liked.  It wasn't terrible or even bad.  The acting was acceptable, except for Sarah's death.  That was a bit silly.  The story was generally solid.  Honestly, I was only half paying attention while watching this.  The questionable points I did pick up on were ratified with the ending, which i might add......WAS A TWIST! Bet you didn't see that coming.

Dislikes - Again, I have the same general comment.  Nothing comes to mind that I greatly disliked about this film.  Not saying it was flawless, though.

Overall - The Ward was a fun film to watch if you don't take it too seriously.  Viewing it once is enjoyable but that would be enough.  This won't change horror or make you scared to sleep at night. I was getting turned off by the ghost story concept because it wasn't being executed in a proper manner.  The ending made it acceptable though.  The ending didn't bring things full circle, so much as, it was able to explain away any flaws the plot might have had.  It was a good idea but the lack of strong acting made the overall film, though fun to watch, an overall forgettable affair.

P.S. One last note I want to add.  I will continue to review smaller, more obscure tittles.  Reviewing big movies that everyone has already seen before is rather frivolous.  I want to give people something unique to read, as opposed to another screaming voice in a roar of screaming voices.

Review: Dream Home

Hey everyone.  I know it's been some time.  In my real life, I was away on business and wasn't able to keep the movie watching going like normal.  Don't fret though, I've returned!! And I've brought along a stellar gift in this Chinese slasher masterpiece!  I choose to watch Dream Home beucase it was a newly added title to Netflix's instant stream.  I wasn't expecting anything great or evenly remotely good.  Thankfully, Dream Home managed to surprise me.

Dream Home is the story of Cheng Lai-Sheung's pursuit of finding the perfect home.  Early on, we don't understand what drives Cheng's obsession to get a flat in a particular spot.  Despite the advice from friends, family and experts, she refuses to be deterred from acquiring her dream home (OH NO I just made a title reference!).  Slowly, we come to find what's pushing Cheng and how far she will go to make her dreams come true (I can't stop).

Likes - Firstly, the cinematography was amazing.  There were many quiet moments where panning shots of Hong Kong were showed in both vibrant and dull colors.  You can tell a lot of effort was made to show the city in both it's beauty and it's darkest corners.  It was like watching photos breathing. During the moments where there was development, there was also a sense that the setting was carefully picked.  Each scene seemed to have it's own thematic color.  I could be wrong, but that's what I remember.  It really added to the uniqueness of the film.  It reminds me of Hero, where each battle had its own special setting.  Secondly, the story telling was well crafted, detailed, and moved at a good pace.  At first we have no idea why Cheng is doing what she is doing.  The film provides us insight by going back and forth from Chengs past and present.  We go as far back as her childhood.  It's the only way to truly understand what is driving her.  In time, we come to empathize with her.  The back and forth also provides a nice break from the violence.  Lastly, the gruesomeness and depth of violence is nothing I've ever seen in any horror film.  Where most cameras look way and force us to imagine the outcome, Dream Home leaves no room for speculation.  You see each death to it's bitter end.  For someone who has seen more then his fair share of horror, I was shocked to finally see the next level being taken.  Granted, due to its foreign nature, many lines could be crossed.  But even in Japanese and Korean films, I've never seen this level of gore and maiming. It was gruesome and bloody but I was so intrigued with the overall story, I felt no need to look away.  That's pretty amazing

Dislikes - The only thing I disliked about the film was its Netflix description.  Though it gives you a very basic idea of the film, it does not prepare you at all for what you're about to watch.  To the general audience, the violence and blood maybe too much for some people.  The story is so strong though, to see anything less takes away from the obsession driving Cheng.

Overall - All in all, I was unexpectedly impressed with this film.  I wasn't expecting anything this great.  In fact, the first time I watched this film I fell asleep since I was so tired.  I made another attempt to complete my viewing and it was well worth it.  I'm glad I tried a second time since it usually takes me a few tries to really enjoy a film.  With Dream Home, the story is solid and is told in both a beautiful and grotesque manner.  This juxtaposition really shows you the purity of intentions and the dark depths we can fall into to fulfill them.  I give this film 5 stars easy.  Do yourself horror fans and watch this film ASAP!