Good movies are reviewed in this category. These films are not necessarily masterpieces, but I enjoyed watching them. I would probably watch most of these films more than once. Have a look around for suggestions on what to grab for your Saturday evening.
The other day I went to see “Role Models” – yet another cliche comedy, something that we all have seen before in a few other incarnations. However I still liked it. Bright characters, especially both kids playing the main roles and a nice way of mixing middle ages with modern times through role playing games – helped to enjoy it quite a bit.
Overall, a 4 stars.
I went to see a totally other movie today, but somehow the schedules got all messed up and I ended up watching “W.“. I haven’t seen any trailers or posters for the film, except at the time of buing the ticket. And to tell you the truth, I wasn’t very pleased with the thought of watching more about George W. Bush – one man who has been on the screens way more than he deserves. However, the alternative was a really bad remake of a really bad sci-fi movie of the 1950s, so I went for it.
And that turned out to be a good decision. “W.” is one of those movies with the coolest cast, however very under-promoted due to not so popular ideas or angles. “W.” was directed by Oliver Stone – one of the best directors to bring a controversial and unpopular discussion to the table. Roles were played by Josh Brolin, James Cromwell, Scott Glenn, Jeffrey Wright, and a few other people that you will no doubt recognize.
What I liked the most about the movie was how the good and the bad were shown. There was a whole range of characters, some of who were shown good with a few bad mistakes behind their belts, and some of who were bad with some good deeds done. And while the film was mostly about George W. Bush, each and every character was given enough time and development. Overall, it’s a really nice look at good and bad, morale and ethics, tough decisions, historical judgements, and rewards.
One other thing that I liked was how similar were the characters in the movie to their real prototypes. Not being an American, not living in the USA, not following the political scene closely, and havinga really bad memory for names, I was amazed with how fast I could recognize the characters. Often I even had to look closer to see if the character was played by the actor or if any real documentary footage was used. That, of course, is a combination of actors’ work with make-up, costume design, and camera operators. In the end – an excellent result.
I’d rate this film as 7 out of 10. Recommended to anyone who is interested in today’s world and an alternative look on how and why things ended up being as they are.
The other day I went to see “Body of Lies“. I know that some people just can’t take the same actor playing similar roles in two consequtive films – in this case Leonardo DiCaprio being an undercover agent – but if you can get past that, you are probably to enjoy the film. At least I did.
Yes, it had enough cliches and stereotypes and all, but it was also somehow fresh. It wasn’t all that predictable, and it carried a good mix global propaganda with personal drama and plain old action. Good acting, good shooting and explosion, twisty story, nice character development, nice camera work – all make it into a worthy film. If you have a chance to catch it on the big screen – use it. You’ll get some extra.
Overall, a 7 out of 10.
Just came back from watching “Death Race” in the movies. Back when I saw the trailer for this film, I thought to myself that it looks like a very safe recipe. I mean, you have Jason Statham as a driver, lots of cards, some hot girls, plenty of chases and shooting. What are the chances of it going bad? Practically none. But what are the chances of it turning into something interesting and original?
It turned out that whatever were the chances, they weren’t enough. On one hand, we indeed have Jason Statham and lots of cars, shooting, and explosions. The special effects were done nicely, and there was not much screen time without something brutal happening. On the other hand, there is nothing new. In fact, the story and the circumstances were simplified a lot, and in such a way that there is no need to explain anything or to connect the story pieces together with long talks or travels. The plot is simple and uncovers itself in all obviousity (did I just come up with a new word?) at approximately the fifth minute of the movie.
Was it bad? No, it wasn’t. It was worth every penny, and was well worth the time I spent. Chases were nice, characters were not bad, and I liked most of the effects. The whole thing is pretty dynamic and enjoyable. It was also made for the big screen. But seeing it once is enough and I doubt that I’ll buy or rent it on DVD. At least, any time soon.
An overall rating of 6 out of 10 is, I think, appropriate.
I just came back from the movies where I enjoyed an action comedy “Tropic Thunder“. To be honest, initially I didn’t want to see this movie. Silly poster, one of my most unfavourite actors and directos Ben Stiller, and a few other minor factors were all pointing to towards “You can safely ignore this movie” sign. But then I’ve heard a few good reviews and changed my mind.
Gladly, the film turned out to be pretty good. I think that make-up artists, good cast, and participation of one of the Cohen brothers in the screenplay writing saved this flick. Ben Stiller wasn’t as bad as he usually is. Jack Black was pretty good. Especially in that short little scene where he was tied up to the tree. Tom Cruise was a surprise – both acting-wise and make-up-wise. Robert Downey Jr. was really good. He was as good as his make-up. Extra make-up point goes for the Japanese-like looking gangster, shooting automatic weapon in the purple haze. That was aesthetically refreshing.
There is plenty of good action in this film, with gun fights, explosions, helicopters, and so on and so forth. As for the humor – it’s an interesting mix, between the low-level silly Ben Stiller kind of jokes and smart parody and satire Cohen-brothers style. Done really well.
Overall, 7 out of 10 for good entertainment.