Chris Nolan has written, directed and produced a hot movie--one of the best in years. Every scene is critical to the plot and moves seamlessly. The top cast delivers...in spades! I love how the "kick" song is Edith Piaf's and Marion Cotillard played Piaf just recently in abio pix. Subtle but adds depth to the movie. What is especially nice is the way it combines the essence of The Sting's con with the suspense of the classic action film "Where Eagles Dare." Forget spoilers; even if I told you some, you would have to see it to truly get them. It holds your attention and makes you beg for a sequel. Do NOT miss this movie! And no, you were not dreaming this. Or were you?
I'll skip the rant and just say that this was a good movie and worth seeing. It had special effects, a wild car chase, and held your attention. Yes there were weak spots such as Jay seemed too wimpy too long, but overall it was fun! And a movie should be fun; that's why we go. So grab the kids and enjoy a predictable but lovable adventure. And watch out for those plasma bolts!
This has been a bleak year for movies. Aside from a breakthrough in 3D (when used right), not much to talk about until now. The Karate Kid is a well-done, well-acted drama that everyone can enjoy. Sure we know the ending but it is the journey that provides the satisfaction. Jackie Chan gets to show his dramatic range and Jaden Smith proves again what a great actor he is. The story is now in China (using Kung Fu!) but the development of characters is delightful. The scenery is more lush than any 3D movie. And there's not a vampire in sight (sorry tweens)! Go see what a great movie looks like and have a great time watching!
Other than dragon training, there has not been many fun movies this year. Yet here these two superb comedic actors manage to pull off a sleeper of a hit. From waking up with their kids jumping on them at 4 am, you know this is going to be both real and funny. A very tight script keeps you wondering how they are going to pull this off. The slight twist at the end makes it all fun, even the weird car "chase" scene. I only wish there was more to the movie.
The strangest thing is happening at the movies these days. The stories driving the animated films are becoming better while the normally acted films are weaker and depend more and more on remakes of older films. Where have all the writers gone? Disney! Dragons is a well-scripted, three act movie that both kids and adults will enjoy. There are funny little moments, touching tender moments, and some fantastic action moments. See it with the whole family!
After seeing Avatar, this was just average. While the 3D effects were good if not predictable (cups flying at you--old!), the missing piece was the story. Why was Alice really there? What was the story behind the queens? Everything was shallow when it would have enhanced the movie to have as much depth as the visual effects. Oh well, the kids like it. Tim Burton is always dark but so was the movie (as in hard to see with the 3D glasses). Welcome to Alice in Creepyland!
Nancy Meyers is either hit or miss. Her last film, The Holiday, was so well done that it hurts to watch this mess of a film. We all love the actors so everyone wants this to work. But like so many rom-coms these days, they are close but "no cigar." Why, after 10 years, does Jake give up on his marrage? Why didn't he do it 7 years earlier when Anges took off with another guy? If he is a high-powered lawyer, why does he put up with her BS? There are so many cliches that they undo the good parts like the scene of Jane and Adam at the bakery. John Krasinski is a stand out here but the kids are all one note. Watch her other movies like Father of the Bride and Baby Boom instead. This one is as silly as The Parent Trap.
Guy Richie has finally hit the big time with this wonderful action adventure. Downey is Holmes while Jude Law gives us a fresh look at Watson. Rachel McAdams makes a perfect counterpoint to Holmes with her style and smile. The only weakness is the sound; you miss some of Holmes deductions since it isn't THX. Just go with it. A Rock 'n Roll version of Sherlock with a strong cast, excellent writing, and unique cinematography and music. 221B Baker Street will never be the same.
James Cameron never disappoints. This film lives up to its hype and is a must see. The concept is good, the 3D is well done; if only he had chosen to follow the Na'vi story instead of wimping out for a kid's video game ending. Maybe the two sequels planned with cover the story. 3D Warning: This movie is done with style but the trailers will give you a headache with their cheap 3D tricks (things flying at you). Don't watch the trailers. Save it for the movie and have a great time.
This is a well-acted, well-directed movie that falls short of being good. Clooney lovers will all give this 5 stars because he is so good. The problem is that Reitman's script comes up short. Neither Ryan, Alex, or Natalie show any signs of growth from these experiences. We in the audience want them to grow but when you stop and actually look at the film, it is obvious that nothing changes. Too bad.