Reviews

Righteous Kill

Either one of Robert De Niro and Al Pacino is enough to attract attention to the movie. When they are both in the same movie – that’s something that needs to be seen, no matter what the critics or ratings say. And that’s why I went to watch “Righteous Kill” today.

Altogether, the film was rather average – not much dynamics and action for a police movie, predictable story with a lot of cliches, dialogs really off sometimes, and so, and so forth. But. There was enough good acting, and there was enough thought provoking. I mean it’s not a philosophical movie by any measure, but it covers a few morals and gives enough time to the audience to poke around the good, the evil, and the fine line between the two.

Overall, maybe not worthy the big screen, but good enough for a DVD rent. 6.5 out of 10.

Max Payne

I just came back from the movies – watched “Max Payne” with a friend of mine. I wanted to see this film since I came across the trailer. I know a few people who were waiting quite a bit for this film, since there is a video game with the same title, and, if I am not mistaken, everything started with a comics. But don’t take my word for it.

The film turned out to be very pleasing visually. Lots and lots of really cool special effects, focal points, perspective changes, and the like. Lots of things are done properly – snow, water, fire, broken glass, flying bullets, explosions, and so on and so forth. And all that comes together with nice soundtrack. Pleasant experience.

As for the rest of it – the film was pretty weak. The story is one of those usual stories that you have seen in a million other stories. Characters aren’t very well developed though. And the best characters never live up to their fame. Nicely looking lady – killed in the beginning. Really evil looking guy – even worse. There is a lack of major battle, and whatever replaces it is a sorry excuse. Disappointing.

Altogether, I’d give it a 6.5 out of 10. If you like good visuals, then go see it on the big screen. You won’t be disappointed no matter how lacking the rest of the film is. But if you need more than just special effects, than wait for the DVD to come out. That’s about all I can say about this one.

Tropic Thunder

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.

Burn After Reading

I went to see “Burn After Reading” a couple of weeks ago. I had a feeling that it should be rather good, because it was directed by Cohen brothers, who directed, produced, and wrote screenplays for quite a few good movies (“No Country for Old Men”, “O Brother, Where Art Though?”, “The Big Lebowski”, “Fargo”, “The Hudsucker Proxy”, and more). Also, the cast for this film was interesting – George Clooney, John Malkovich, Brad Pitt, and a few other names you know. And, of course, there was a cool trailer.

The film was excellent, but it wasn’t quite what I expected. I thought (based on the trailer) it would some sort of comedy action, with a bit of crime. And it sort of was. But. I don’t even know how describe it. It was funny but very sad film. Or a very sad film, which was funny. I guess that just doesn’t make any sense, but that what it was.

Overall, I really enjoyed it. Especially with all the good acting, interesting story telling, camera work, and even more good acting. An 8 out of 10 and strongly recommended.

Kung Fu Panda

Being a great of kung fu movies, I aboslutely had to see “Kung Fu Panda“. Even though it is an animation, it still features Jackie Chan and lots of kung fu training and fights. I don’t know what it is about kung fu movies that drags me in and occupies my attention, but it’s always the same. And “Kung Fu Panda” was no exception.

And it wasn’t a disappointment. Great animation, good humor, and the best of kung fu – it’s all there. The last dumpling fight is up there with the rest of the best kung fu fights. And an extra point for choosing the animals for characters and kung fu styles. Lots of fun.

Overall, a 7 out of 10. Recommended for any fans of animation, Jack Black, or kung fu movies.