"Inception" plays out like an intricate set of Russian interlocking dolls. Each layer is simple enough to understand, yet as they interlock with one another, the overall story becomes intriguingly complex. It's a very good film that calls into question the very fundamentals of what and how we believe something, including our relationships to one another, love, religion, and the potentially chilling repercussions in taking a leap of faith.
The combination of Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe delivers another thoughtful, sprawling, kick butt response to historical injustice. "Robin Hood" lacks some of the austerity and breadth of "Gladiator," but it's clear the two share the same creative lineage. There's a fantastic cast, full of "I've seen that actor before" moments, and the story feels quite fresh at all times. Time well spent.
Face it. You go to Iron Man or any other super here movie to see a lot of action and "Iron Man 2" certainly doesn't disappoint on that score. But what's fun about "Iron Man 2" are the assembly of characters. Each one -- from Vanko to Hammer to Black Widow to Tony Stark and the rest from IM1 -- is interesting in and of itself, but put them together and you have something genuinely enjoyable. A nice romp.
Carell and Fey are reliable, but nothing here stretches their talents -- especially the considerable wealth that are Fey's. It's all a little mundane, but some strong cameos help to pick up the pace so the entire film doesn't flounder or grind to a halt. It's worth 90 minutes on a slow day.
Gimme a well-produced crude, lewd, just-for-the-Hell-of-it randy movie any day, but this one is just a waste of time dud. if you spent the '80s watching Cinemax "adult" features, you'll certainly recognize the lousy story, acting and other elements, but hardly ever scratch the surface on the anticipated five minutes of titillation. It coulda been an ironic contenda, but wound up as a bum.
"Sherlock Holmes" is certainly worth seeing, but consider it more of a popcorn film than the next "Dark Knight." Unfortunately, much of its "darkness" (including certain scenes of violence) aren't a good fit with lighter inclinations so beware. Downey, Jr and Law and, especially, Mark Strong, give good performances, yet there's a lack of connection somehow. Good film but not a great one.
Characters, storyline or themes in "Avatar" (all of which are great) aren't what will distinguish this film. We'll soon look back at "Avatar" as the initial film to show film fans (and film makers) a new dimension and experience for the form. Yes, there are a few glitches here and there, but see "Avatar" on 3D and IMAX and remember the artistry, nuance and delicacy of digital cinema from here on in. Peter Jackson or Christopher Nolan or Robert Zemeckis or anyone else who wants to work on a "big" canvas can't help but have envy and emulation for what James Cameron has done. A great film and a great experience, but see it in 3D and IMAX for sure.
Besides awesome music, "Pirate Radio" does a great job of capturing the genuine feel of the moral freedom vs repression of the '60s vs the still battling '50s. The cast of characters is fantastic -- especially the always great Bill Nighy -- and watch for some great cameos, too.
Sandra Bullock and Thomas Haden Church were good in most of their moments, but you often felt as if long periods were passing without them playing off anything or anyone. The final third of the movie somewhat redeemed the first two, but by then, it was easy to have written this off as merely fairly entertaining.
From the moment you join "District 9," you feel immersed in its reality and the typical Buck Rogers "distance" of an alien movie just isn't there. That's what makes the film so harrowing and, often, disturbing, as the usually obvious elements of "us" versus "them" only appear when we contemplate about ourselves. Very good film.