Although I found Elizabeth Banks acting very credible, I wasn't engaged by this movie, nor was I frightened. It attempted to be a psycho-thriller (I think) but failed. The story line was forced and under-developed. The crafting was disjointed, and dare I say it - Emily Browning was woefully miscast in this role. I'm not sure another actress would have fared better, but the end result was a very flat film that left me thinking I'd seen it [done better] before.
I'm thrilled to see Clint Eastwood in front of the camera again. He still has the chops -- w/plenty to spare. His character is a man who finds himself in mixed-race neighborhood he would rather not live in, but events lead him to try to understand - even LIKE - the very people he thought he loathed. Along the way we learn why he holds his beliefs so strongly, and what drives him to the selfless and sad final action he takes. This character is very much a product of his generation and you will find someone you know who could be this man. A study in the human condition. Excellent.
P.S. - This movie is NOT for children; lots of political incorrectness and racial remarks; but full of humor too.
This movie is difficult to watch (and review) on many levels. It is a multi-layered love story/tragedy where innocence is lost, love is gained, and defiance and ashamedness lead to horrors that none of the characters are prepared to face. This a complex and wildly emotional story and I found myself sad for the characters, while I struggling to understand their actions - and their attempt at justification for war time crimes. Most of us will be blessed never to be forced into these kinds of choices. The acting is first-rate on all accounts and the story is one that needs to be told.
Not usually a Jim Carrey fan, but I have to say that I found him to be at once funny and engaging in this film. Zooey D. is a revelation and the perfect antecdote to Carrey's character. These two are refreshing and plausible and charming on screen. The message of possibility has never looked better.
Atonement is the focus of this movie ... and the struggle one man faces after causing a tragedy. Will Smith plods through the story --which is precisely the point : he can no longer truly LIVE, and he decides he must make things right. His journey leads him to the deserving souls he seeks out, and an unexpected connection with one woman. Smith's performance is full and captivating. Rosario Dawson is simply spendid in her role as a struggling, yet fortunate recipient of the ultimate gift. For me, this is a perfect Christmas movie - because it represents the humanness that this season should be ... splashing it across the screen in pure raw emotion. 24-hrs. later I'm still thinking about this movie.
This movie is so much more than Sean Penn's acting - which is nearly flawless here. Penn brings to life a little known story of a true humanitarian fighting for the rights of ALL people. The movie tells the story of Harvey Milk with a certain truth - through humor and tragedy - and reminds us why it is important to be tolerant.
The screenplay is well-written and the cast is perfect in its portrayal of a confusing and difficult time in American history, and of events that have shaped us. Cheers to Gus Van Sant for taking it on and letting us applaud the efforts of the late Harvey Milk. You will be moved if you see this film.
A movie to share with a date or family, this epic production reeled me in. Although it started slowly and without a discernable "tone", it unfolded into a classic love story, with a back drop of the beautiful Australian outback. This movie showcased the hidden treasurers found in this part of the world and reminds of us the generations of indiginous peoples that were stolen during the country's conflicts. Acting by both the co-stars was solid - just what you'd expect. Some of the supporting cast gave memorable and thoughtful performances too. The entire audience in the screening I watched was touched by this movie... I just recommend extra popcorn as it runs a little long.
And just a little different. This was a great ride and a thoroughly enjoyable action movie. While not containing some of the memorable Bond dialogue and one-liners wooing the ladies, the movie was beautifully shot and I found Daniel Craig immensely enjoyable to watch. He's smooth and stylish, in a different way. I appreciate the update -- in portraying interesting, strong women and a little less cad of a Bond. Cheers! Noteworthy performances also turned in by Dame Judi Dench & Olga Kurylenko. Can't wait to see the next installment.
This unfortunate film was not only NOT scary, it didn't even raise 1 hair on the back of my neck. The acting was fine given the poor material. It was predictable and failed to create any cohesive story or explain its constant references to the "evil" that we are told is about to emerge. Zero payoff.
Please shut the door that was left open for the sequel.
I haven't seen a better movie this year - and maybe in a few years. The Express recounts Ernie Davis' remarkable story with class and heart. This true life drama will leave you thoroughly satisfied - even if you're not a diehard sports fan. The backdrop is football, but the theme is much more - standing up for yourself and for others - even when it's difficult or unpopular. Showing how to participate in life AND on a team is a lesson we can all be reminded of. The tone is even and solid as are the performances. Way to go! See it. Buy it. See it again.