Silver Linings Playbook Review

Silver Linings Playbook: This is the best Dramedy of the Year! Bradley Cooper plays Pat, a guy who moves back in with his parents after finishing up a stint in a mental hospital. He needed help after going through a traumatic event with his wife, which more a less ended their marriage. He soon meets Tiffany, played by Jennifer Lawrence who recently lost her husband in a car accident. Her Mental state is far from perfect as well. The two begin to gel as they work on a dance project together. Meanwhile his dad (Robert De Niro) is a die hard Philadelphia Eagles fan who works as a bookie throughout the football season; he also shows sign of OCD which complicates Pat’s home life. The film’s unique characters and brilliant writing supply some hilarious moments, such as a fight that breaks out at an Eagles' tailgate. The movie also has a soft side as we root for Pat and Tiffany to overcome their mental obstacles and find happiness in life. I cannot say enough good things about the cast – Best Ensemble of the year! Chris Tucker even pops up as Pat’s friend from the mental institution and gives a mellow yet amusing performance. David O. Russell who wrote & directed the movie did a wonderful job balancing the drama with the comedy. This one of the best movies of the year –

Rythemovieguy’s Grade: 4 Jaws / A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Rain Man & Strictly Ballroom         

The Ghost Writer

Why It's Worth Seeing: Roman Polanski directs a political thriller starring Pierce Brosnan and Ewan McGregor. Early on in the film I thought this might be one of those plot lines that is difficult to follow, but in the hands of Polanski the story flows effortlessly onto the screen. McGregor plays a ghost writer hired to finish the memoirs of a former British Prime Minister (Brosnan). Shortly after taking the job, the Prime Minister finds himself under investigation for war crimes. As the ghost writer digs up facts about the Prime Minister, he uncovers secrets that are extremely classified, with indications of a major conspiracy. Suspense builds as the ghost writer now finds his life in danger.

Why It's Not: You might not want to support Polanski considering his bouts with the law.

Verdict: This is a near perfect thriller that gives off a "Hitchcock" kind of vibe. It has a smart storyline, it is suspensful, and the acting is spot on. I am a big fan and believe you will be too!!!

Rythemovieguy's Grade: A-

If this movie had parents: Secret Window & All The President's Men

In The Loop

In The Loop: A very witty, satirical comedy about the politics between the U.S. and Britain leading up to the Iraq war. The best way to sum up the style of the movie is to imagine a political satire filmed like the television show The Office. The funny business begins when Simon Foster, British Secretary of State for International Development is interviewed on a prime-time newscast. Although he is anti-war, he accidentally gives the impression that he is pro-war by stating that "war is unforeseeable". This draws the attention of Britain's foul-mouthed Communications Chief, Malcolm Tucker who ridicules Simon for such a statement. Meanwhile, a few American politicians take an interest in Simon for his outward statement which buys Simon and his new aide tickets to Washington D.C. to further discuss the matter. While in America, they meet politicians who are for and against the war, their young ladder climbing aides, and even a General (James Gandolfini) who opposes the idea of going to war. The film's clever writing reduces the important issues at hand into immature silliness, all the while making a very loud statement. If you like witty humor, hysterical one liners, and political goofiness with a flavor of The Office, check this one out because it has it all!
Ry's Rating B+

If this movie had parents they would be: Dr. Strangleove & The Office

With a runtime of 104 minutes

This film is rated R

New Star Trek Review

Star Trek: Wow, am I impressed! When I heard the early buzz on this film “rebooting the series with a young attractive cast” I thought it would be like 90210 in space…or in other words, a complete disaster. Then a strange thing happened, the trailer came out and actually looked pretty good. Then the positive reviews and word of mouth started to come in. Finally, on Saturday I was able to check it out for myself. I have to tip my cap to J.J. Abrams for a job well done. I am not a “trekkie” by any means. However I have seen a couple of the movies, cried when Spock died in Khan, and know most of the main characters. This movie actually made me want to discover more of the Star Trek lore. The story starts at the very beginning and I mean the Very Beginning: we see Captain Kirk’s birth. We then jump ahead 25 years to the U.S.S. Enterprise's first mission out to investigate a distress call from the planet Vulcan. What makes the rest of the ride so enjoyable is the cast. Every one of the crew members does an excellent job of getting us to care about them, plus their chemistry together is tremendous. The two leads – Spock (Zachary Quinto) and Kirk (Chris Pine) are perfect together as we see their friendship begin. On top of the perfect cast is a well layered story that includes some time travel elements that work perfectly for the situation. Lastly, we have some grand special effects that breathe some life into the movie – gone are the days of a camera tilting and the actors falling all over. Star Trek is back…..and in my opinion, better than ever before.

Ry's Rating: A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Back to the Future & The Last Star Fighter

With a runtime of 121 minutes

This film is rated PG-13

The Dark Night

The Dark Knight: Best Batman movie ever? Absolutely. Best superhero movie of all time? Almost (answer may change to “yes” after another viewing). This latest bat adventure is different from previous superhero films in that it works more as a crime drama than an over-the-top action flick. Even without any of the bat gadgets or any of the bat stunts you would still be engrossed in the strong storyline - the gadgets and stunts are just a big plus. As for all of the hype concerning Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker = Deserved. He owned this role. Equally impressive and not to be overlooked is Gary Oldman as Commissioner Gordon whose character was at the heart of the film. Aaron Eckhart plays Harvey Dent/Two Face who I thought did an excellent job as well. In fact, Christian Bale who is an amazing Bruce Wayne was probably the weakest of the four. This is not a knock on Bale, but rather praise for the whole cast. The movie opens up with the Joker about to cause havoc on Gotham City’s mob scene. Meanwhile Batman is working closely with Gordon to rid the streets of crime. They are trying to go for a big blow against the mob instead of just making small arrests. Furthermore, Gordon and Batman are ready to start working with Harvey Dent, a district attorney with the same goal as them. Can the three of them work together to make Gotham safe again or can the Joker pit them against each other to cause even more disorder? “Holy 4-star movie Batman!”

Ry's Rating: A-

If this movie had Parents they would be: Heat & Batman (1989)

With a running time of 155 minutes

This film is rated PG-13

There Will Be Blood Review

There Will Be Blood: Fifteen minutes into Blood, without a single word yet spoken, you know you are in for a unique film experience. You instantly see that Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest offering is not just a wedge of entertainment, but a piece of art. When you want to be serious about “art” in the world of cinema, one actor’s name comes screaming to mind - Daniel Day-Lewis (DDL). DDL plays Daniel Plainview, an oil man in turn-of-the-century Texas. His greed leads him to any town or ranch where oil has been discovered. He eventually finds his way to the Sunday family ranch where oil is so plentiful that it has been spotted seeping out of the ground. Here Plainview meets Eli Sunday, a man who preaches the word of God. As the oil wells are constructed, the two of them slowly become adversaries. There Will Be Blood is a study of many things including greed, hatred, trust, jealously, and faith in God. Watching DDL deteriorate and transform his character because of greed is like spying on Dali while painting – a genius at work! Matching the exquisiteness of DDL’s performance is the powerful score supplied by Radiohead’s Johnny Greenwood (I know what you are thinking, this coming from a huge Radiohead fan). The music becomes another character in this sprawling epic while providing in depth foreshadowing. In my opinion, it was the innovative score that really put this film on a higher pedestal. I think it is very important to know that the runtime is roughly 3 hours. Also, the pace of the film is much slower than the norm, however I am not saying that is bad. In fact, in this case it is a good thing because it gives you time to cherish the detail and thought put into this tour de force.
Ry’s Rating: A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Wall Street & 2001 A Space Odyssey

With a runtime of 158 minutes
This film is rated R

No Country for Old Men Review

No Country for Old Men: It is so delightful to see the Coen brothers back in their elite form. In the same vein as Fargo and The Big Lebowski, Ethan and Joel Coen have once again tapped into a faction of people that will be memorable for years to come. No Country is adapted from the novel of the same name that was penned by Cormac McCarthy. We have seen this type of story told before. Basically, a man finds drug money that he shouldn’t have – keeps it – and is then chased by a mad killer who is also after the money. What separates this movie from the normal slaw are the unique and well-developed characters that are dropped into the saga. In particular, Anton Chigurh (played masterfully by Javier Bardem) as the menacing killer is so compelling to watch – only the Coen brothers could give us such a distinctive character. Josh Brolin plays Llewelyn, the (un)lucky guy who finds the money. Brolin plays the part perfectly, allowing the viewers to get involved in the film even further as his character is hunted down. The trinity is rounded out with the sheriff, played by Tommy Lee Jones, who is trying to make sense of all the mess happening around town. The film is shot beautifully with brilliant detail that adds to the intensity of the story. “Intense” being the key word as the characters get into some absurdly difficult situations. I sat in the theater with my heart racing and my palms sweating. I loved how the movie was so smartly written – I found each move the characters made to be well calculated. The only aspect of the film that I was not enamored by was the ending, which is what keeps this movie from a perfect score. That aside, the Coen’s have given us a magnificent motion picture……one of the best of the year.

* * * & ½ or Grade: A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Fargo & A Simple Plan

With a running time of 121 minutes

This film is rated R

The Bourne Ultimatum Review

The Bourne Ultimatum: This is the 3rd and hopefully the last Bourne movie. I say “hopefully the last” because I feel the people behind these movies have made a PERFECT trilogy. Let the story and character live on in cinema lore, not to be disturbed by greedy studio execs. This third installment picks up right where the 2nd chapter left off. Jason Bourne is in Moscow running from and eluding the local police and other CIA agents…….and nobody “runs and eludes” better than Jason Bourne. His objective in this movie is to get back to New York where the treadstone project began, and to meet his makers. The action and the pace of this movie can best be described as - unyielding adrenaline. We are treated to some hand-to-hand combat, car chases, rooftop chases, motorcycle chases, assassinations, and some good old spy-expertise. Being a Paul Greengrass film you can expect a lot of handheld camera work that is close to all the action. Some may not like the unsteady, in your face style, I myself feel it is great for these movies. I think it makes it feel all that much more real. Along side all the great action is a well told, thinking man’s plot. There is just enough information given to keep you guessing what will come next, but nothing that confused me at any point. I also wanted to say that I thought the end of the movie/story could not have been better – just perfect. In a time when Hollywood loves to suck every cent from a franchise, it is rare to get 3 movies with this high of caliber both in story and action. Hands down it is the best “summer blockbuster” movie of the season. Thus making it one of the best trilogies of all time for this reviewer - Let us hope it stays just that way…a Trilogy!

* * * and 1/2 or Grade A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Casino Royal & The Bourne Supremacy

With a run time of 111 minutes

This film is rated PG-13

Once Review

Once: Movies such as this one are my main inspiration for writing these reviews. A brilliant, small film overshadowed by the summer blockbuster season….it is my duty to call attention to this work of art. The film stars Glen Hansard (lead singer of the band The Frames) and new comer Marketa Irglova. Hansard plays a guitar playing street performer who loves to write and sing his own music on the streets of Dublin - even if it is for only small tips. One night someone stops to listen (Irglova), she instantly sees genius in him and a relationship is formed. The story is then told through songs that both of the lead actors sing, either by themselves or with each other. If you have any type of enthusiasm for music, this is the film for you! The songs sung in the movie bleed passion. The acting by Hansard reels you into the characters and makes you see the beauty in their songs. The film was shot in just 17 days with a budget of only $130,000 – the inelegant style only helps the mood of the film. There were a few times in the movie I had chills just watching and listening to the performances. I cannot say enough good things about this small movie that could, other than I hope you see it in the theater!!!!! “2007 movies” – the bar has been set!

* * * * or Grade A-
If this movie had parents they would be: Lost in Translation & Walk the Line

With a running time of only 85 minutes
This film is rated R

Children of Men

Children of Men: The premise for this movie is enough to draw in any viewer: The year is 2027 and all the women in the world have become infertile. No babies have been born for 18 years, meaning the youngest person on earth is a little over 18 years of age. The human race is dying and with that the world is in total chaos. Enter our hero – Theo, played masterfully by Clive Owen (one of the best actors working today). Theo is an everyday man – depressed as everyone else in the world knowing there is no hope for the future. He is contacted by his ex-wife (Julianne Moore) to help get a young woman – Kee, across borders and check points and finally to a secret project, code named: Tomorrow. What is so special about Kee…….she is pregnant! The movie has plenty of action along the way, but it is the drama of the story that makes this film so captivating. On top of all that, Children of Men is probably the best made movie of 2006. The camera work and art direction are the best I have seen in many years! The world created is so authentic – not futuristic or gimmicky at all, keeping me totally immersed. Although the world created in this film is very dark, the message is one of hope and optimism. The movie makes you realize what we take for granted. It shows us the importance of children and the cycle of life. It makes you realize how precious life is, and reminds us that giving birth is truly a miracle. Intriguing – haunting – inspiring………simply put: an Exceptional Film.
* * * * or Grade: A

If this movie had parents they would be: Minority Report & Strange Days

With a running time of 113 minutes
This film is rated R

Pan's Labyrinth

Pan’s Labyrinth: Set in Spain in 1944 we follow a young girl – Ofelia, as she begins a new life with her pregnant mother and her mother’s new husband. The country is in a post civil war period and there is not much to be happy about. Ofelia’s step-father is a commanding officer at a nationalist military base. Ofelia sees evil in him and refuses to accept this man as her new father. The only good news for Ofelia is she discovers a labyrinth that leads to an underground fantasy world. This is a dark fantasy world geared more for adults than kids. There she is given three tasks to carry out before she can return to this fantasy world as the princess she once was long ago. Going into the film I was under the impression that the story would mostly take place inside this fantasy world, but that is not the case. The story stays above ground in the post war setting more so than the fantasy world, but both worlds are engaging. As the story plays out, we as viewers have to decide if the fantasy world is real or not. The film is done so beautifully that you are caught wanting to THINK one way, but FEEL another way. The ending is a powerful cry out to the beauty of innocence. The costumes, make-up, cinematography, writing, acting and the vision the film had are all among the year’s best. This is a movie that stands out as a piece of art.
* * * * or Grade A

If this movie had parents they would be: Life is Beautiful and Alice in Wonderland

With a running time of 128 minutes
This film is rated R

The Queen

The Queen: An extraordinary look inside the royal family during a time of turmoil. The story centers around the death of Princess Diana which happened just a few days after Tony Blair was elected as the new Prime Minister. Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth II and does a tremendous job. Her acting performance is why this film works so well, we truly get to see a glimpse of how the royal family must have felt during these events. Michael Sheen also turns in an excellent performance as Tony Blair, who helps the royal family see how they were truly being viewed by the public. Actual footage of Princess Diana and other events that took place around that time are mixed in reminding us how real this terrible event was. The movie’s timeline is basically the week between Princess Diana’s death and her royal funeral seen by millions around the world. Although the script is not based on actual events, the idea of what transpired that week between the Queen and the Prime Minister is compelling. I personally love when films go back in time and visit an event, tragic or joyful, and show us their take on what might have happened behind closed doors. The movie also gives multilayered messages about public leaders' responsibilities and how they are viewed in the public’s eye. This is one of the best films I have seen this year and I believe it will be mentioned a lot come award season. Bravo!
* * * * or A-

If this movie had parents they would be: JFK & Elizabeth

With a running time of 97 minutes
This film is rated PG-13

The Departed

The Departed: Martin Scorsese returns to the gangster movie genre with style. He brings with him a cast that only includes the names DiCaprio, Damen, Nicholson, Wahlberg, Baldwin and Sheen…….he’s not messing around. The movie is actually a remake of the Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs. We have two cops working undercover -infiltrating both aspects of the Irish mob scene in Boston. One cop was raised by the mob since he was a young kid and worked his way into the police force, basically working undercover for mob boss Frank Costello (Nicholson). The other undercover cop is working for the police force and is part of Frank Costello’s mob. Suspicion arises on both sides that there is a rat in the house….but finding out who it is, is not that easy. As for the cast mentioned above = OUTSTANDING! All the actors stepped up to the plate for this movie. I can’t say enough about the acting – I wish all movies could have this high of caliber. The writing has to be mentioned next – I have not seen a movie with this crisp of screenplay since………....... Goodfellas – “A real F*cking shame” it’s been that long. The story gets you involved early and keeps you there the whole time. Tense moments throughout the entire film will keep you glued to the screen. The violence that takes place seems so naturally placed….never forced just for shock value – that is the sign of a good gangster movie. The only aspect keeping this movie from a perfect rating is the core of the story…..it seems way more is going on than should be for what is at stake. On the whole, The Departed is a stellar film (top 10 of the year) that will only get better after a few spins in the DVD player!
* * * and ½ stars or Grade: A-

If this movie had parents they would be: Infernal Affairs & Goodfellas - a lay up

With a run time of 149 minutes
This film is rated R