Boyhood
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Ellar Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, Ethan Hawke, Patricia Arquette
General Gist: Following the life of a young man from 5 to 18.
Deb's Take:
This movie won several film awards, to which I'm not familiar with at all, but I think the fact that it won awards says something. So, this movie was interesting and fascinating in two particular ways for me. One, it followed the life of a family over a 12 year period, and ACTUALLY filmed over a 12 year period to allow for the actors to age with the movie. I liked this premise because I feel like it kept the characters and personalities real. Two, I am amazed that this could be pulled off. Each year a different piece of the movie was recorded to eventually follow the actors over a 12 year "true" history. That was cool and neat and impressive.
As far as the movie itself, I felt it was slow, and unclimatic. Which in a way, I think that was the point. Following a boy from age 5-18 and touching the highlights (or often in his case the low lights) of his life made me very aware, that on average, life is pretty average for many. Now, his family life was a little screwed up in a way I couldn't really relate to, but I think all our lives are on the verge of weird and his was just a different kind of weird for me. The acting wasn't outstanding, and the storyline was slow. I do feel like I walked out of the movie with this sense of "OMG, I'm 43 years old and I better get going with my life because 12 years can pass super fast and then I'm 55 and what do I have to show for it?" All in all the idea was captivating, but I think the award for this movie were for the timeline not the storyline.
Deb's Rate: Rent it
Tiff's Take:
It heard this movie was good and it seemed interesting and artsy. I usually like those. And I didn't not like it. As Deb said, the premise behind this movie was really cool. It's amazing how a 6 year old boy can turn out to be this 18 year old kid that doesn't seem like the kid you would think he would be. I guess that's the amazing thing about watching an actual boy grow up in front of you over a two hour time span. So that part of the movie was good.
But it just felt way too long. There wasn't a lot going on during a lot of the movie. Yeah, I think that was part of the point but unfortunately it didn't make for a very interesting movie. The parts where there was a little more going on felt unstable. And instabilities in movies make me feel weird. Is it weird that it makes me feel weird?! Anyway, just a so so one for me. I wanted to like it better than I did.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: The Giver
Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Friday, September 5, 2014
2014: Week 32: The Hundred-Foot Journey
The Hundred-Foot Journey
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Helen Mirren, Om Puri, Manish Dayal, Charlotte La Bon
General Gist: A blossoming chef and his Indian family move to France and open a restaurant across from a highly celebrated French restaurant.
Deb's Take:
First off, the above description of the movie doesn't do this movie justice, but I couldn't figure out a better way to describe this movie in a nutshell. So, don't judge the movie by it's preview. That being said, this movie was like reading an excellent novel, and I love to read a good novel. Seldom does a movie compare, but I love when I find that movie. The movie that makes me forget I am in a theatre, that I am not standing right next to the characters, that movie that plays like a book. This movie was comparable to "The Way" to me, which since we started this blog, has been my all time favorite. Also falls right along side of "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel", another goodie.
I have been trying to figure out why this movie was so much better than so many others. Why this one made me feel "satisfied" with the movie industry. I think the best way I can describe my feelings, is that this movie hit my soul. So many movies now a days are about the Hollywood hype, about being "showy" and entertaining without making you think or feel. This movie was the opposite to me. It allowed me to think and feel, and I love that! I liked feeling the emotion. The crazy thing to me was that the movie subject just seemed like there would be no way a deep emotional story could erupt, I was so wrong. The movie was about family, passion, love, and heart.
I enjoy watching actors who present themselves so well. Helen Mirren is amazing, the other three main players were new to me, and I was thrilled with their presentations as well. Manish Dayal played his part perfectly. I loved that there was a focus on relationships as well as personal progress and growth. I just feel this movie was so well done, I can't even put into words how much I liked it. I would just recommend you go and see it for yourself, if you are a person who likes to see a book unfold on screen and don't want the typical Hollywood Hype.
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
Agree, agree, agree. What a wonderful movie! This was one of those refreshing movies that comes along only every once in awhile. Quite honestly I don't have much more to add then what Deb already said. And beings that I'm so behind in my reviews I think I'll just leave it at that.
Go see this movie!
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: Boyhood
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Helen Mirren, Om Puri, Manish Dayal, Charlotte La Bon
General Gist: A blossoming chef and his Indian family move to France and open a restaurant across from a highly celebrated French restaurant.
Deb's Take:
First off, the above description of the movie doesn't do this movie justice, but I couldn't figure out a better way to describe this movie in a nutshell. So, don't judge the movie by it's preview. That being said, this movie was like reading an excellent novel, and I love to read a good novel. Seldom does a movie compare, but I love when I find that movie. The movie that makes me forget I am in a theatre, that I am not standing right next to the characters, that movie that plays like a book. This movie was comparable to "The Way" to me, which since we started this blog, has been my all time favorite. Also falls right along side of "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel", another goodie.
I have been trying to figure out why this movie was so much better than so many others. Why this one made me feel "satisfied" with the movie industry. I think the best way I can describe my feelings, is that this movie hit my soul. So many movies now a days are about the Hollywood hype, about being "showy" and entertaining without making you think or feel. This movie was the opposite to me. It allowed me to think and feel, and I love that! I liked feeling the emotion. The crazy thing to me was that the movie subject just seemed like there would be no way a deep emotional story could erupt, I was so wrong. The movie was about family, passion, love, and heart.
I enjoy watching actors who present themselves so well. Helen Mirren is amazing, the other three main players were new to me, and I was thrilled with their presentations as well. Manish Dayal played his part perfectly. I loved that there was a focus on relationships as well as personal progress and growth. I just feel this movie was so well done, I can't even put into words how much I liked it. I would just recommend you go and see it for yourself, if you are a person who likes to see a book unfold on screen and don't want the typical Hollywood Hype.
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
Agree, agree, agree. What a wonderful movie! This was one of those refreshing movies that comes along only every once in awhile. Quite honestly I don't have much more to add then what Deb already said. And beings that I'm so behind in my reviews I think I'll just leave it at that.
Go see this movie!
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: Boyhood
Friday, August 8, 2014
2014: Week 29: When the Game Stands Tall
When the Game Stands Tall
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Jim Caviezel, Alexander Ludwig, Michael Chiklis, Laura Dern
General Gist: True Story of De Le Salle High School football team and their journey from a 151 winning streak with coach Bob Ladouceur.
Deb's Take:
I love a good movie about high school football. Of course it's even better if it's true. This movie was amazing. The movie didn't just follow the season of a high school team, but rather a coach and his endeavour to make high school football about something other than winning. I was impressed with all of the actors, Jim Caviezel did good, all the actors that played the high school kids did wonderful. I felt like I was watching the lives of real folks, (which is essence I was). There was a good message, great connection of characters, and I liked that at the end we got to see some real footage of the team and coach. All in all this was a winner for me. This one doesn't come out in theatres until Aug. 22 so mark your calendar!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
Same goes for this sister. Even though I'm not a really huge sports fanatic, I do love a good sports movie. I love the inspiration and talent and competitiveness. This one had a few more relationship elements rather than just a straight up sports angle which I liked. I also loved that it was a true story. Makes it that much more exciting. The acting was great so not much to complain about there. This would be a great one to take your hubby to.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Jim Caviezel, Alexander Ludwig, Michael Chiklis, Laura Dern
General Gist: True Story of De Le Salle High School football team and their journey from a 151 winning streak with coach Bob Ladouceur.
Deb's Take:
I love a good movie about high school football. Of course it's even better if it's true. This movie was amazing. The movie didn't just follow the season of a high school team, but rather a coach and his endeavour to make high school football about something other than winning. I was impressed with all of the actors, Jim Caviezel did good, all the actors that played the high school kids did wonderful. I felt like I was watching the lives of real folks, (which is essence I was). There was a good message, great connection of characters, and I liked that at the end we got to see some real footage of the team and coach. All in all this was a winner for me. This one doesn't come out in theatres until Aug. 22 so mark your calendar!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
Same goes for this sister. Even though I'm not a really huge sports fanatic, I do love a good sports movie. I love the inspiration and talent and competitiveness. This one had a few more relationship elements rather than just a straight up sports angle which I liked. I also loved that it was a true story. Makes it that much more exciting. The acting was great so not much to complain about there. This would be a great one to take your hubby to.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Preview: Lucy and Guardians of the Galaxy
Sunday, July 20, 2014
2014: Week 28: Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi
Main Players: Gary Oldman, Keri Russell, Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke
General Gist:
Genetically evolved Apes come to war with the human race.
Deb's Take:
I am not a Planet of the Apes Fan. After seeing this movie, I still am not a fan. I don't feel like I can really give anyone a good review of this movie, because quite frankly, I thought it was stupid. I couldn't get past the fact that these Apes were "human" and have evolved to a point where they were equal to man. I just didn't like it. So, since I went with my son and husband I will give you their opinions, beause they are more fans than me. My husband said it was ok, he thought it was too drawn out and sort of boring. He did think the premise of this one was good, and didn't say it was aweful just not great. My 13 year old son was a different story. The whole way home he tried to convince me that I really DID like the movie, but that I just didn't understand it. UM, no, but good try. Anyway, he really liked it. The actors did good, I didn't realize the Apes were actually played by people so that was something interesting. All in all though, just can't give it kudos. Although, the 30 year old male who was sitting to my left was obviously touched because he cried through the whole last scene, like for real....
Deb's Rate: Don't bother unless you are a fan of Planet of the Apes, if so I suppose a Matinee would do.
Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi
Main Players: Gary Oldman, Keri Russell, Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke
General Gist:
Genetically evolved Apes come to war with the human race.
Deb's Take:
I am not a Planet of the Apes Fan. After seeing this movie, I still am not a fan. I don't feel like I can really give anyone a good review of this movie, because quite frankly, I thought it was stupid. I couldn't get past the fact that these Apes were "human" and have evolved to a point where they were equal to man. I just didn't like it. So, since I went with my son and husband I will give you their opinions, beause they are more fans than me. My husband said it was ok, he thought it was too drawn out and sort of boring. He did think the premise of this one was good, and didn't say it was aweful just not great. My 13 year old son was a different story. The whole way home he tried to convince me that I really DID like the movie, but that I just didn't understand it. UM, no, but good try. Anyway, he really liked it. The actors did good, I didn't realize the Apes were actually played by people so that was something interesting. All in all though, just can't give it kudos. Although, the 30 year old male who was sitting to my left was obviously touched because he cried through the whole last scene, like for real....
Deb's Rate: Don't bother unless you are a fan of Planet of the Apes, if so I suppose a Matinee would do.
Preview: When the Game Stands Tall
Sunday, June 29, 2014
2014: Week 26: Begin Again
Begin Again
Genre: Drama,Main Players: Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Adam Levine
General Gist: A music executive down on his luck discovers a musician who is ready to leave the country after she is jilted by her pop star boyfriend.
Tiff's Take:
Oh boy. Another movie with music. This is becoming a common theme. Going into this one, I didn't realize how much music was actually going to be in the movie. If I had known I may have been less enthusiastic to go. But I didn't and I was really looking forward to it.
Even though Adam Levine, who is pretty darn mainstream, was in this, I wouldn't say this was a mainstream kind of movie. I like that. This movie was a tad on the quirky side. Just a little. And I like that as well. It was based in NYC which I love. It had interesting, unpredictable characters which is always refreshing. I mostly love Keira Knightley in anything she's in a I like Mark Ruffalo as well. They were both great in this. Adam Levine was okay but honestly he didn't have a huge part so it was hard to say whether he was bad or good. I can't say I'm a huge fan of Adam like my dear sister so he was just sort of neutral for me. Actually, his character was on the annoying side but I think that was intentional.
Despite all the singing (which if I'm being honest, I liked in this one), I really enjoyed the characters and the less conventional story. It seems like the bad movie streak has finally ended.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Deb's Take:
I love movies with music. This one was different because it wasn't a musical per se, it was more a movie, about music with music. Totally different but perfectly conducted.
Adam Lavine's movie debut, that in itself was enough for me. He is quite a man, not to mention I like his music A LOT. Ok, that being said, Adam was amazingly good in this movie. Maybe because he is a singer/star playing one was pretty much like being himself, but he was extremely natural and never once did I feel like he was struggling to pull off the acting gig. This was especially important because he was playing opposite Kiera, who was phenomenal. Ok, her singing was decent, by no means was I floored, but the music fit her. Mark Ruffalo did great as well. Really not one person was disappointing in this movie. The chemistry between all the characters was spot on.
This movie had everything I love, relationships with deep meaning, conflict, heart, emotion, heartbreak, love...you get it. I pretty much just melted into my seat and got lost in the story. I liked that it wasn't a cookie cutter story, I loved the music, and I appreciated the emotions. What a great film. I will be going again! Something I rarely do.
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: Travel might get in the way of both of us being able to go to the movie next week. But you never know. We have a way of making it work. We shall see.
2014: Week 24: Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys
Genre: Drama, Musical, Biography
Main Players: Vincent Piazza, John Lloyd Young, Michael Lomenda, Erich Bergen
General Gist: The story of the 4 young men who formed the 1960's group The Four Seasons
Deb's Take:
I was fortunate to see this show as a stage play last year. I am a lover of musicals, drama, and biographies, so this was a no brainer. I think the downfall was that I DID see the stage performance so I found myself comparing the two frequently.
First off, the story of The Four Seasons is intriguing. I have always been fascinated with how people become stars. I am even more fascinated when they become stars through their own work and sweat. The movie did a wonderful job of expressing the relationships between the characters and leaving a feeling like you really knew what each character was about. I liked the heart and soul of the movie, the drama and the story.
Secondly, I did feel like the actors did an amazing job. Not one actor seemed out of place or misrepresenting. I was impressed with the singing, (although not as impressed as I was with the stage performance). I loved the music, a good movie must have good music...period.
Lastly, I felt like the movie was simply me watching four friends' lives unfold and play out. I was lost in the movie, which is always a plus for me. Definitely a movie worth seeing.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Tiff's Take:
It's not a big secret that I'm not a huge fan of musicals or a movie that is heavy with music. It's a little odd to say that because it's not like I don't like music in my life. I do. A lot. But the acting/music combo is just a little boring to me.
This wasn't a musical so much as music in a movie. So I didn't mind it. It also helped that I really like music from the 60's. The story itself was pretty fascinating too. Although when I watch movies that have any sort of mob connection it always makes me nervous. Does it for you? Am I just weird that way? I always worry someone is going to make the wrong move and get themselves killed.
So the actors were good and talented and all that but honestly none of them really stood out to me. And even though the story was fascinating, the movie was a bit too long. I felt like it dragged out a little too much. In the end, I would say I liked the movie but didn't love it.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: Kids movie coming up. How to Train Your Dragon 2.
Genre: Drama, Musical, Biography
Main Players: Vincent Piazza, John Lloyd Young, Michael Lomenda, Erich Bergen
General Gist: The story of the 4 young men who formed the 1960's group The Four Seasons
Deb's Take:
I was fortunate to see this show as a stage play last year. I am a lover of musicals, drama, and biographies, so this was a no brainer. I think the downfall was that I DID see the stage performance so I found myself comparing the two frequently.
First off, the story of The Four Seasons is intriguing. I have always been fascinated with how people become stars. I am even more fascinated when they become stars through their own work and sweat. The movie did a wonderful job of expressing the relationships between the characters and leaving a feeling like you really knew what each character was about. I liked the heart and soul of the movie, the drama and the story.
Secondly, I did feel like the actors did an amazing job. Not one actor seemed out of place or misrepresenting. I was impressed with the singing, (although not as impressed as I was with the stage performance). I loved the music, a good movie must have good music...period.
Lastly, I felt like the movie was simply me watching four friends' lives unfold and play out. I was lost in the movie, which is always a plus for me. Definitely a movie worth seeing.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Tiff's Take:
It's not a big secret that I'm not a huge fan of musicals or a movie that is heavy with music. It's a little odd to say that because it's not like I don't like music in my life. I do. A lot. But the acting/music combo is just a little boring to me.
This wasn't a musical so much as music in a movie. So I didn't mind it. It also helped that I really like music from the 60's. The story itself was pretty fascinating too. Although when I watch movies that have any sort of mob connection it always makes me nervous. Does it for you? Am I just weird that way? I always worry someone is going to make the wrong move and get themselves killed.
So the actors were good and talented and all that but honestly none of them really stood out to me. And even though the story was fascinating, the movie was a bit too long. I felt like it dragged out a little too much. In the end, I would say I liked the movie but didn't love it.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: Kids movie coming up. How to Train Your Dragon 2.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
2014: Week 18: Draft Day
Draft Day
Genre: Drama, Sports
Main Players: Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, Patrick St. Esprit, Chadwick Boseman
General Gist: A NFL general manager, on Draft Day, must make several decisions to rebuild his team, while taking into consideration several outside influences.
Tiff's Take:
I feel really bad that I went to this movie without Russ. He really wanted to see it and I know he would have liked it. And he would have appreciated and understood it a lot better than me. I think a lot of the little details of the actual draft day were lost on me. Obviously.
So even though I'm a football idiot and basically know nothing about what goes on behind the scenes (or in front of my face) I still really enjoyed this movie. It was fascinating. It almost made me want to watch the draft. Ha! Okay, not really but it made me appreciate the process.
Kevin Costner was really good in this. I didn't quite believe the relationship between him and Jennifer though. I really liked her in this but the relationship aspect seemed a little forced and could have almost been left out of the story altogether. But other than that this was a great date movie that your man is sure to enjoy.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Deb's Take:
Brian went to this movie with us, and I was happy he was sitting next to me, because like Tiff, I didn't know the details of an actual draft day, and Brian was so kind as to answer my questions during the movie. Which is HUGE, because I am a big believer in not talking during a movie but I broke my own rule so I could follow the whole process with more knowledge. I enjoyed the movie much more knowing what was going on. It's really not too suprising that I like the movie, because it's a sports movie and I can't think of a sports movie I haven't enjoyed. I am with Tiff on this one..the love story side could have just been left off the table. Maybe the writer's were trying to cater some to the female audience with that storyline, but really it was unnecessary. I liked the idea of his personal assistant having so much knowledge about football, but wish there would have just been a "female in the male world" spin and no romance at all. I absolutely loved Kevin Costner in this. Although, like sports movies, I have a hard time thinking of a Kevin Costner movie I didn't like. He is still so good at his job! Yep, this one was a winner for Friday night.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Preview: Neighbors
Genre: Drama, Sports
Main Players: Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, Patrick St. Esprit, Chadwick Boseman
General Gist: A NFL general manager, on Draft Day, must make several decisions to rebuild his team, while taking into consideration several outside influences.
Tiff's Take:
I feel really bad that I went to this movie without Russ. He really wanted to see it and I know he would have liked it. And he would have appreciated and understood it a lot better than me. I think a lot of the little details of the actual draft day were lost on me. Obviously.
So even though I'm a football idiot and basically know nothing about what goes on behind the scenes (or in front of my face) I still really enjoyed this movie. It was fascinating. It almost made me want to watch the draft. Ha! Okay, not really but it made me appreciate the process.
Kevin Costner was really good in this. I didn't quite believe the relationship between him and Jennifer though. I really liked her in this but the relationship aspect seemed a little forced and could have almost been left out of the story altogether. But other than that this was a great date movie that your man is sure to enjoy.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Deb's Take:
Brian went to this movie with us, and I was happy he was sitting next to me, because like Tiff, I didn't know the details of an actual draft day, and Brian was so kind as to answer my questions during the movie. Which is HUGE, because I am a big believer in not talking during a movie but I broke my own rule so I could follow the whole process with more knowledge. I enjoyed the movie much more knowing what was going on. It's really not too suprising that I like the movie, because it's a sports movie and I can't think of a sports movie I haven't enjoyed. I am with Tiff on this one..the love story side could have just been left off the table. Maybe the writer's were trying to cater some to the female audience with that storyline, but really it was unnecessary. I liked the idea of his personal assistant having so much knowledge about football, but wish there would have just been a "female in the male world" spin and no romance at all. I absolutely loved Kevin Costner in this. Although, like sports movies, I have a hard time thinking of a Kevin Costner movie I didn't like. He is still so good at his job! Yep, this one was a winner for Friday night.
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Preview: Neighbors
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
2014: Week 16: Heaven Is for Real
Heaven is for Real
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly, Connor Corum
General Gist: The story of a 4 year old who goes to Heaven as told by his father. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
So, I didn't read this book. To be honest it just didn't seem like my cup of tea. I'm very open minded about spiritual experiences and such but for some reason I wasn't horribly interested in reading this book. I thought the movie would give me a good snippet about what the hype was all about and I could call it a day.
Well, I think I would have been better off just reading the book and calling it a day. I'm sure the movie did not do the book justice in the least. I wasn't invested in this story at all. I didn't really feel the emotions that some people might get from watching this. There was a decent amount of people who clapped when this movie was over. It obviously moved some people. Not this girl. I was actually bored towards the end. I believe this was an amazing story for the people involved. But the movie just left me feeling uninspired.
Tiff's Rate: Don't Bother
Deb's Take:
Hmm.. This movie was disappointing to me. I was expecting big, Big, BIG things from this. I am a very spiritual person. I believe in the power of miracles, visions, Angels, a greater being and spiritual experiences. I enjoy hearing people's encounters with things not normal. I expected whole heartedly to come out of this movie with a sense of peace, and connection. I did not. I felt like half of this movie was a sermon. I felt some sort of lesson was trying to be pushed through the cracks, but in the end got stuck. Spiritual encounters are meant to be powerful, life changing and awesome. I believe that this story is all of those things, but the movie deflated the experience. I felt the acting was good, but the writing and directing was not. Connor Corum did great! I also liked Greg Kinnear. Kelly Reilly was lacking, and sort of annoying, as were many of the supporting roles. The story is amazing, but stick to the book because I feel like the movie ruined it.
Deb's Rate: Don't bother, just read the book.
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly, Connor Corum
General Gist: The story of a 4 year old who goes to Heaven as told by his father. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
So, I didn't read this book. To be honest it just didn't seem like my cup of tea. I'm very open minded about spiritual experiences and such but for some reason I wasn't horribly interested in reading this book. I thought the movie would give me a good snippet about what the hype was all about and I could call it a day.
Well, I think I would have been better off just reading the book and calling it a day. I'm sure the movie did not do the book justice in the least. I wasn't invested in this story at all. I didn't really feel the emotions that some people might get from watching this. There was a decent amount of people who clapped when this movie was over. It obviously moved some people. Not this girl. I was actually bored towards the end. I believe this was an amazing story for the people involved. But the movie just left me feeling uninspired.
Tiff's Rate: Don't Bother
Deb's Take:
Hmm.. This movie was disappointing to me. I was expecting big, Big, BIG things from this. I am a very spiritual person. I believe in the power of miracles, visions, Angels, a greater being and spiritual experiences. I enjoy hearing people's encounters with things not normal. I expected whole heartedly to come out of this movie with a sense of peace, and connection. I did not. I felt like half of this movie was a sermon. I felt some sort of lesson was trying to be pushed through the cracks, but in the end got stuck. Spiritual encounters are meant to be powerful, life changing and awesome. I believe that this story is all of those things, but the movie deflated the experience. I felt the acting was good, but the writing and directing was not. Connor Corum did great! I also liked Greg Kinnear. Kelly Reilly was lacking, and sort of annoying, as were many of the supporting roles. The story is amazing, but stick to the book because I feel like the movie ruined it.
Deb's Rate: Don't bother, just read the book.
Preview: Pre-screening of "The Other Woman"
Thursday, April 17, 2014
2014: Bonus Review: Noah
Noah
Genre: Action, Drama, Adventure
Main Players: Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Anthony Hopkins, Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, Douglas Booth
General Gist: The title is pretty self explanatory. However, this "based" not an actual replication.
Deb's Take: This movie was quite a different experience than I expected. Obviously, there is a book that the story is based on...I haven't read the book, but I have heard the story over and over again in my life. I think there was controversy over how this story was told. Here is my take. Noah is a bible story, we all have the basic idea and beliefs of what happened. Hollywood decided to tell the story with a different spin. That is what movies do, tell stories in a new way. I don't think anyone said the movie was a "true recollection of specific actions". I went into the movie really having no idea what I would truly see.
The movie was done in a Sci-Fi sort of way. Some crazy creatures were formed, some pretty evil people were portrayed, and it was all done with Hollywood flare. I was actually quite impressed with the casting, some pretty big names. I also thought the acting was good. I found some enjoyment seeing this story told with a new spin. I didn't feel the movie was being disrespectful to Christianity, I wasn't turned off by the approach. That being said, I'm not a huge Sci-Fi sort of gal, so all in all the movie wasn't something that impressed me. I felt like it got a little long, it was lacking meaningful relationships, and the bottom line lessons were not touching, like I feel they could have been.
If you are going to see the story of "Noah" as represented in the bible, you may want to reconsider, or at least don't get offended, because that's not what you'll see.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Genre: Action, Drama, Adventure
Main Players: Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Anthony Hopkins, Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, Douglas Booth
General Gist: The title is pretty self explanatory. However, this "based" not an actual replication.
Deb's Take: This movie was quite a different experience than I expected. Obviously, there is a book that the story is based on...I haven't read the book, but I have heard the story over and over again in my life. I think there was controversy over how this story was told. Here is my take. Noah is a bible story, we all have the basic idea and beliefs of what happened. Hollywood decided to tell the story with a different spin. That is what movies do, tell stories in a new way. I don't think anyone said the movie was a "true recollection of specific actions". I went into the movie really having no idea what I would truly see.
The movie was done in a Sci-Fi sort of way. Some crazy creatures were formed, some pretty evil people were portrayed, and it was all done with Hollywood flare. I was actually quite impressed with the casting, some pretty big names. I also thought the acting was good. I found some enjoyment seeing this story told with a new spin. I didn't feel the movie was being disrespectful to Christianity, I wasn't turned off by the approach. That being said, I'm not a huge Sci-Fi sort of gal, so all in all the movie wasn't something that impressed me. I felt like it got a little long, it was lacking meaningful relationships, and the bottom line lessons were not touching, like I feel they could have been.
If you are going to see the story of "Noah" as represented in the bible, you may want to reconsider, or at least don't get offended, because that's not what you'll see.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Preview: Two more reviews to post!
Sunday, April 13, 2014
2014: Week 13 1/2: 3 Days to Kill
3 Days to Kill
Genre: Action, Drama
Main Players: Kevin Costner, Hallie Steinfeld, Amber Heard
General Gist: A dying CIA agent is offered an experimental drug to save his life, in exchange for one last assignment
Deb's Take: This movie actually has a little "spin" in the title. This movie has two separate story lines going on at the same time. In one story line, Kevin Costner is reconnecting with his teenage daughter, Haillie Steinfeld, while her mother is out of town for 3 days...Hence, they have "3 days to kill." In the second story line, Kevin Costner is paired with Amber Heard in an attempt to save his life from cancer, and he has 3 days to kill...literally, the bad guys. Ok, so the second story line is much more complicated then that, but all in all that's the general idea.
I went to this movie with my high school BFF as Tiff and I were 1600 miles away from each other for the week. We both agreed that the storyline with his daughter was a little unnecessary. There were some moments that could have been intermingled, but sometimes the whole idea was a little overkilled. The movie had a lot of unnecessary scenes, that really didn't play into the whole movie itself. There was a lot of action, fast driving, shooting, and bad guys, but all in all I wasn't really impressed with the story lines. Kevin Costner is still a great actor, and Amber Heard was decent but this movie just didn't really hit the spot for me.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Genre: Action, Drama
Main Players: Kevin Costner, Hallie Steinfeld, Amber Heard
General Gist: A dying CIA agent is offered an experimental drug to save his life, in exchange for one last assignment
Deb's Take: This movie actually has a little "spin" in the title. This movie has two separate story lines going on at the same time. In one story line, Kevin Costner is reconnecting with his teenage daughter, Haillie Steinfeld, while her mother is out of town for 3 days...Hence, they have "3 days to kill." In the second story line, Kevin Costner is paired with Amber Heard in an attempt to save his life from cancer, and he has 3 days to kill...literally, the bad guys. Ok, so the second story line is much more complicated then that, but all in all that's the general idea.
I went to this movie with my high school BFF as Tiff and I were 1600 miles away from each other for the week. We both agreed that the storyline with his daughter was a little unnecessary. There were some moments that could have been intermingled, but sometimes the whole idea was a little overkilled. The movie had a lot of unnecessary scenes, that really didn't play into the whole movie itself. There was a lot of action, fast driving, shooting, and bad guys, but all in all I wasn't really impressed with the story lines. Kevin Costner is still a great actor, and Amber Heard was decent but this movie just didn't really hit the spot for me.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Preview: Just catching up on all our reviews. A few more to come.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
2014: Week 11: 12 Years a Slave
12 Years a Slave
Genre: Drama, Biography
Main Players: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o, Brat Pitt, Benedict Cumberbatch
General Gist: Set in pre-civil war America, a free black man is tricked into traveling south into DC and then abducted and sold as a slave. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
This was a slow week for movies so we decided to see this one since we didn't get to see it last year. And I always like to see Oscar ones I missed.
Let me say, this was so well acted and done. I can definitely see why it won Oscars. However, that being said, it was so difficult to watch. How can people continue to move forward when their situation is so bad? It's really hard seeing people literally and figuratively beaten down over and over. Obviously not a high point in our country's history. But this man's story is horrific and amazing all at the same time. And Lupita Nyong'o who played Patsey definitely earned her Oscar.
If you haven't seen this yet it is definitely worth seeing but it's not an easy one to sit through. It won't be one that you can watch over and over. One time is enough for me.
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Deb's Take:
If you want a movie that will evoke emotions from deep in the pit of your stomach this is the one to see. Like Tiff said, its horrific and amazing. Worth every award it received. I can't even imagine living through what these people endured. There is something to be said for the ability for a human being to carry on.
This movie was best because I didn't know many of the actors. I like when movies don't pull in the known people, a sense of authenticity is created when the actors seem more like people than stars. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong'o were beyond amazing. I think if I had to live those parts, in any way, shape or form, I would vomit daily. That's what this movie made me feel like, it was so sickening to see what these people had to endure I wanted to throw up. Piggybacking on my "history lesson" post of The Monuments Men, I will say this kind of history lesson hurts the heart.
This movie was all emotion, intensity and passion. The movie will break your soul, cause you to question humankind and possibly fill you with hatred... but it will also make you passionate about life, hunger for compassion and burst with love. Now that folks, is a good movie!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: Divergent of course.
Genre: Drama, Biography
Main Players: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o, Brat Pitt, Benedict Cumberbatch
General Gist: Set in pre-civil war America, a free black man is tricked into traveling south into DC and then abducted and sold as a slave. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
This was a slow week for movies so we decided to see this one since we didn't get to see it last year. And I always like to see Oscar ones I missed.
Let me say, this was so well acted and done. I can definitely see why it won Oscars. However, that being said, it was so difficult to watch. How can people continue to move forward when their situation is so bad? It's really hard seeing people literally and figuratively beaten down over and over. Obviously not a high point in our country's history. But this man's story is horrific and amazing all at the same time. And Lupita Nyong'o who played Patsey definitely earned her Oscar.
If you haven't seen this yet it is definitely worth seeing but it's not an easy one to sit through. It won't be one that you can watch over and over. One time is enough for me.
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Deb's Take:
If you want a movie that will evoke emotions from deep in the pit of your stomach this is the one to see. Like Tiff said, its horrific and amazing. Worth every award it received. I can't even imagine living through what these people endured. There is something to be said for the ability for a human being to carry on.
This movie was best because I didn't know many of the actors. I like when movies don't pull in the known people, a sense of authenticity is created when the actors seem more like people than stars. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong'o were beyond amazing. I think if I had to live those parts, in any way, shape or form, I would vomit daily. That's what this movie made me feel like, it was so sickening to see what these people had to endure I wanted to throw up. Piggybacking on my "history lesson" post of The Monuments Men, I will say this kind of history lesson hurts the heart.
This movie was all emotion, intensity and passion. The movie will break your soul, cause you to question humankind and possibly fill you with hatred... but it will also make you passionate about life, hunger for compassion and burst with love. Now that folks, is a good movie!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
2014: Week 10: The Monuments Men
The Monuments Men
Genre: Drama, Biography
Main Players: George Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, John Goodman, Bill Murray, Jean Dujardin, Hugh Bonneville, Bob Balaban
General Gist: A group of unlikely men seek out stolen art during WWII in hopes of saving what the Nazi's are trying to destroy. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
There's nothing better than a good George Clooney/Matt Damon movie. They have such great chemistry together. Paired with a good movie and they are fantastic. I was hoping that this would be one of those movies but I was slightly disappointed.
All the actors did well and George and Matt were their normal wonderful selves but the movie itself was a little slow. I'm not sure if it was the screenplay or what but it didn't feel like it had much direction. It was also missing some pizazz or emotion or something. Things happened too matter of factly that you almost didn't care if something happened to one of the characters. And it was sort of easy to forget that they were plopped down in the middle of a war. There wasn't a sense of urgency or level of intensity.
Aside from that though, it was really interesting. (Slow and interesting at the same time? A little bit of an oxymoron.) The idea of what these men were trying to do was really fascinating. This is something you don't often hear about when you learn about WWII. For that, I enjoyed it. But if it wasn't such an interesting topic with phenomenal actors then I don't think this movie would have really gone anywhere at all.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Deb's Take:
I disliked history growing up. I didn't like my history classes, I was often bored with the facts and because of that I know very little about history, (to a fault). In the last few years I have grown to love history because I began studying it in a more interesting way. I like the stories behind the history. The meat and potatoes. My husband says I had the wrong teachers. I think so. Now, I know this movie is hyped up on Hollywood, but what I liked about it was that it taught me some history I didn't know. The story was so fascinating to me. World War II and the doings of Hitler are so intriguing. SAD..but intriguing.
I agree with Tiff that this movie wasn't so much about he actors. They all did good, and I know the group of them was more of some of the "top" players, but really, the story had me engrossed more than the actors. They did a good job, but I wouldn't say they were what made the movie, the story itself made the movie. The movie would have been good to me no matter who played the parts. I wasn't as underwhelmed as Tiff in this one, I don't remember feeling like the movie was slow, but I agree there wasn't much emotion or intensity. I don't know how close to the real story this movie came, but I enjoyed learning something I didn't know before. Although this wasn't a huge winner for me, I can't say it was a loser.
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Preview: We finally got to see 12 Years a Slave and a bonus movie with the kids.
Genre: Drama, Biography
Main Players: George Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, John Goodman, Bill Murray, Jean Dujardin, Hugh Bonneville, Bob Balaban
General Gist: A group of unlikely men seek out stolen art during WWII in hopes of saving what the Nazi's are trying to destroy. Based on a true story.
Tiff's Take:
There's nothing better than a good George Clooney/Matt Damon movie. They have such great chemistry together. Paired with a good movie and they are fantastic. I was hoping that this would be one of those movies but I was slightly disappointed.
All the actors did well and George and Matt were their normal wonderful selves but the movie itself was a little slow. I'm not sure if it was the screenplay or what but it didn't feel like it had much direction. It was also missing some pizazz or emotion or something. Things happened too matter of factly that you almost didn't care if something happened to one of the characters. And it was sort of easy to forget that they were plopped down in the middle of a war. There wasn't a sense of urgency or level of intensity.
Aside from that though, it was really interesting. (Slow and interesting at the same time? A little bit of an oxymoron.) The idea of what these men were trying to do was really fascinating. This is something you don't often hear about when you learn about WWII. For that, I enjoyed it. But if it wasn't such an interesting topic with phenomenal actors then I don't think this movie would have really gone anywhere at all.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Deb's Take:
I disliked history growing up. I didn't like my history classes, I was often bored with the facts and because of that I know very little about history, (to a fault). In the last few years I have grown to love history because I began studying it in a more interesting way. I like the stories behind the history. The meat and potatoes. My husband says I had the wrong teachers. I think so. Now, I know this movie is hyped up on Hollywood, but what I liked about it was that it taught me some history I didn't know. The story was so fascinating to me. World War II and the doings of Hitler are so intriguing. SAD..but intriguing.
I agree with Tiff that this movie wasn't so much about he actors. They all did good, and I know the group of them was more of some of the "top" players, but really, the story had me engrossed more than the actors. They did a good job, but I wouldn't say they were what made the movie, the story itself made the movie. The movie would have been good to me no matter who played the parts. I wasn't as underwhelmed as Tiff in this one, I don't remember feeling like the movie was slow, but I agree there wasn't much emotion or intensity. I don't know how close to the real story this movie came, but I enjoyed learning something I didn't know before. Although this wasn't a huge winner for me, I can't say it was a loser.
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Monday, February 24, 2014
2014: Week 8: Endless Love
Endless Love
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Players: Alex Pettyfer, Gabriella Wilde, Bruce Greenwood, Joely Richardson
General Gist: The love story of a girl and boy who fall in love the summer after high school, and a father who doesn't believe in their romance.
Deb's Take:
All I could think about while watching this movies was.."This is like a Taylor Swift song put into a 2 hour production". That being said, I guess it depends on your opinion of Taylor Swift and her songs. This movie was definitely a high school, "Footloose", "Dirty Dancing" for this generation type of movie. Although, it won't be iconic like those movies from the 80's.
This movie is all about young love. I did get the feel of that desperate, young, first love. The storyline was pretty black and white, two young lovers, a father who thinks the boy isn't good enough for his daughter, a mother who fights to make the father realize young love is real, etc. etc...You know, like a Taylor Swift song. Now don't get me wrong, I am a Taylor Swift song lover. I like young love, I love the emotion, the passion, the newness. This movie didn't really do it for me though. All the main characters played their parts well. It's just that it played too much like an after school special (am I dating myself there?). I think it was trying to be like "Footloose" or "Dirty Dancing", but it missed the mark by a long shot. I guess all I can say is it was sweet, but lacking.
Deb's Rate: Rent it
Tiff's Take:
We saw Winter's Tale right before this movie and that was sort of disappointing as far as love stories go. So I was hoping that this one would be a little better although to be honest I didn't really have any high hopes. But I think it exceeded my expectations (however low they may have started).
This movie was completely predictable and we've seen a variation of it a hundred times. There were also things about it that just didn't seem likely. However, the chemistry that was lacking from last week's movie was not lacking in this one. I felt the emotions a lot more. And I was more drawn into this relationship. Sure it seemed a little immature but I'm a sucker for young love.
By no means did I think this movie was fantastic but I also didn't hate it. But I do love Taylor Swift songs so there you go.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: Bonus review for The Lego Movie.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Players: Alex Pettyfer, Gabriella Wilde, Bruce Greenwood, Joely Richardson
General Gist: The love story of a girl and boy who fall in love the summer after high school, and a father who doesn't believe in their romance.
Deb's Take:
All I could think about while watching this movies was.."This is like a Taylor Swift song put into a 2 hour production". That being said, I guess it depends on your opinion of Taylor Swift and her songs. This movie was definitely a high school, "Footloose", "Dirty Dancing" for this generation type of movie. Although, it won't be iconic like those movies from the 80's.
This movie is all about young love. I did get the feel of that desperate, young, first love. The storyline was pretty black and white, two young lovers, a father who thinks the boy isn't good enough for his daughter, a mother who fights to make the father realize young love is real, etc. etc...You know, like a Taylor Swift song. Now don't get me wrong, I am a Taylor Swift song lover. I like young love, I love the emotion, the passion, the newness. This movie didn't really do it for me though. All the main characters played their parts well. It's just that it played too much like an after school special (am I dating myself there?). I think it was trying to be like "Footloose" or "Dirty Dancing", but it missed the mark by a long shot. I guess all I can say is it was sweet, but lacking.
Deb's Rate: Rent it
Tiff's Take:
We saw Winter's Tale right before this movie and that was sort of disappointing as far as love stories go. So I was hoping that this one would be a little better although to be honest I didn't really have any high hopes. But I think it exceeded my expectations (however low they may have started).
This movie was completely predictable and we've seen a variation of it a hundred times. There were also things about it that just didn't seem likely. However, the chemistry that was lacking from last week's movie was not lacking in this one. I felt the emotions a lot more. And I was more drawn into this relationship. Sure it seemed a little immature but I'm a sucker for young love.
By no means did I think this movie was fantastic but I also didn't hate it. But I do love Taylor Swift songs so there you go.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: Bonus review for The Lego Movie.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
2014: Week 7: Winter's Tale
Winter's Tale
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Colin Farrell, Jessica Brown Findlay, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Will Smith, William Hurt
General Gist: A man thinks he finds his destiny only to become immortal in search of his true destiny. (yes it's sort of confusing)
Tiff's Take:
So this is why Lady Sybil left Downton Abbey. I have to say, I miss her on the show. She was one of my favorite characters. But I'm glad she's broadening her horizon. However, if I'm going to be honest here I think she should have stuck to Downton Abbey. Don't get me wrong, I thought she did well in this movie but I don't think this movie helped her out in any way.
When I saw the preview for this, I thought it would be a delightful chick flick. I was hoping for a great love story. Extra fluffy and heart wrenching. The kind my husband would rather die than see. But it wasn't exactly that for me. First of all, I don't think there was much chemistry between Findlay and Farrell. I really didn't believe the "love at first sight" business between them. I didn't love Colin Farrell in this and I really didn't love his haircut. Russell Crowe's character was a little strange and threw a little twist in the seemingly normal love story. Not sure I loved him either.
Besides the actors and the acting, the concept behind the story could have worked but I felt like it just wasn't executed well. It seemed to outlandish when it could have been more believable if done right. I will say though there were a few really touching moments that surprised me. So much so that I teared up. But it just wasn't enough to make it a great movie for me. Mediocre at best.
Tiff's Rate: Rent It
Deb's Take:
I'm with Tiff on this one. I was really thinking that this movie was going to be a perfect sort of love story. I was disappointed. The concept was great! Then they added a mystical flying horse, an immortal gangster, and Lucifer. The mix just was wrong. I either like real or fantasy, I don't like a mix.
I do like Findlay and Farrell in this. I like love stories, I just wish this one would have had a more real feel. I don't think any of the actors did exceptional, and I think any liking of the characters was mostly because I liked the actors themselves. This was definitely one of those movies that I was hyped to see and then was disappointed I went. I'm itching for a good love story so hope I find something soon!
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Preview: Going to an Oscar rating movie. Not sure which one though
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Colin Farrell, Jessica Brown Findlay, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Will Smith, William Hurt
General Gist: A man thinks he finds his destiny only to become immortal in search of his true destiny. (yes it's sort of confusing)
Tiff's Take:
So this is why Lady Sybil left Downton Abbey. I have to say, I miss her on the show. She was one of my favorite characters. But I'm glad she's broadening her horizon. However, if I'm going to be honest here I think she should have stuck to Downton Abbey. Don't get me wrong, I thought she did well in this movie but I don't think this movie helped her out in any way.
When I saw the preview for this, I thought it would be a delightful chick flick. I was hoping for a great love story. Extra fluffy and heart wrenching. The kind my husband would rather die than see. But it wasn't exactly that for me. First of all, I don't think there was much chemistry between Findlay and Farrell. I really didn't believe the "love at first sight" business between them. I didn't love Colin Farrell in this and I really didn't love his haircut. Russell Crowe's character was a little strange and threw a little twist in the seemingly normal love story. Not sure I loved him either.
Besides the actors and the acting, the concept behind the story could have worked but I felt like it just wasn't executed well. It seemed to outlandish when it could have been more believable if done right. I will say though there were a few really touching moments that surprised me. So much so that I teared up. But it just wasn't enough to make it a great movie for me. Mediocre at best.
Tiff's Rate: Rent It
Deb's Take:
I'm with Tiff on this one. I was really thinking that this movie was going to be a perfect sort of love story. I was disappointed. The concept was great! Then they added a mystical flying horse, an immortal gangster, and Lucifer. The mix just was wrong. I either like real or fantasy, I don't like a mix.
I do like Findlay and Farrell in this. I like love stories, I just wish this one would have had a more real feel. I don't think any of the actors did exceptional, and I think any liking of the characters was mostly because I liked the actors themselves. This was definitely one of those movies that I was hyped to see and then was disappointed I went. I'm itching for a good love story so hope I find something soon!
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Preview: Going to an Oscar rating movie. Not sure which one though
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
2014: Week 6: Lone Survivor
Lone Survivor
Genre: Biography, Action, Drama
Main Players: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster
General Gist: The true story of four Navy SEALs on a mission in Afghanistan
Deb's Take:
This movie is another movie that is also a book. I didn't get to read the book before I watched the movie, my husband did and said the book was quite an amazing story. Following the movie he mentioned that there were some "emotions" that he felt were lost in the movie that the book captured. The movie and book both brought tears to his eyes, my husband cries infrequently. (A small snip-it from another source.)
This movie was outstanding. I think the story was probably why the movie was so good, but to take this story and allow you to really feel like you are in the middle of this mission was accomplished. I think the actors did magnificent, however, I think kudos must go to the writer and director, Peter Berg. The movie was intense, the stunts were phenomenal, and the emotions were surreal. I think a movie like this makes people like me, unpolitical and quite sheltered, open my eyes and heart. I am also so grateful that there are cultures in the world like the Pashtun culture.
Thank you to the men and women who serve. Thank you to their families for loving them and letting them go, and thank you to those who fight and return and share their stories of bravery, lose a part of themselves and sacrifice for someone else. Go see this movie, it will make you appreciate your life.
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
I got to see this movie with my husband too. This was one of the few ones he was looking forward to see. For someone who doesn't go to movies very often, this was a good one for him to go to. He was not disappointed.
I didn't read this book either but my dad was reading it over Thanksgiving and could not put it down so I'm sure it's well worth the read. However, this movie was not lacking anything in my mind. I didn't feel like I was missing parts that were in the book that maybe didn't make it to the screen. I'm sure there were but this movie was just so good that it didn't matter.
With the title, you have an idea that maybe only one person is going to make it out. That did not take away from the story or progression though. This was such an intense, white knuckle kind of movie. I don't think I breathed until it was over. And so very well done and acted.
This is the kind of movie that reminds us "normal" folks what it takes to protect our country and what people sacrifice for it and us. Man am I thankful for those people. I left this movie feeling very patriotic and proud of all the people who serve in the military. This movie pulls those feelings right out of you.
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: We have a couple options for this week. Possibly a love story for Valentine's Day or an Oscar nominated one we didn't see last year.
Genre: Biography, Action, Drama
Main Players: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster
General Gist: The true story of four Navy SEALs on a mission in Afghanistan
Deb's Take:
This movie is another movie that is also a book. I didn't get to read the book before I watched the movie, my husband did and said the book was quite an amazing story. Following the movie he mentioned that there were some "emotions" that he felt were lost in the movie that the book captured. The movie and book both brought tears to his eyes, my husband cries infrequently. (A small snip-it from another source.)
This movie was outstanding. I think the story was probably why the movie was so good, but to take this story and allow you to really feel like you are in the middle of this mission was accomplished. I think the actors did magnificent, however, I think kudos must go to the writer and director, Peter Berg. The movie was intense, the stunts were phenomenal, and the emotions were surreal. I think a movie like this makes people like me, unpolitical and quite sheltered, open my eyes and heart. I am also so grateful that there are cultures in the world like the Pashtun culture.
Thank you to the men and women who serve. Thank you to their families for loving them and letting them go, and thank you to those who fight and return and share their stories of bravery, lose a part of themselves and sacrifice for someone else. Go see this movie, it will make you appreciate your life.
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
I got to see this movie with my husband too. This was one of the few ones he was looking forward to see. For someone who doesn't go to movies very often, this was a good one for him to go to. He was not disappointed.
I didn't read this book either but my dad was reading it over Thanksgiving and could not put it down so I'm sure it's well worth the read. However, this movie was not lacking anything in my mind. I didn't feel like I was missing parts that were in the book that maybe didn't make it to the screen. I'm sure there were but this movie was just so good that it didn't matter.
With the title, you have an idea that maybe only one person is going to make it out. That did not take away from the story or progression though. This was such an intense, white knuckle kind of movie. I don't think I breathed until it was over. And so very well done and acted.
This is the kind of movie that reminds us "normal" folks what it takes to protect our country and what people sacrifice for it and us. Man am I thankful for those people. I left this movie feeling very patriotic and proud of all the people who serve in the military. This movie pulls those feelings right out of you.
Tiff's Rate: Opening Night
Preview: We have a couple options for this week. Possibly a love story for Valentine's Day or an Oscar nominated one we didn't see last year.
Thursday, January 30, 2014
2014: Week 5: August: Osage County
August: Osage County
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Ewan McGregor, Dermot Mulroney, Abigail Breslin, Juliette Lewis, Julianne Nicholson, Benedict Cumberbatch (Basically a lot of well known actors and a few others thrown in.)
General Gist: A slightly estranged and dysfunctional family comes together after a crisis.
Deb's Take:
I am a relationship junkie. I people watch, get encapsulated by interactions and connections and get sucked into movies that dive into relationships. This movie was that kind of movie. To say this family was dysfunctional is an understatement. With an alcoholic father, a drug addicted mother and a past of craziness how could they not be? I will say though,this movie will not be a movie for everyone. When I really think about, this movie didn't really have a point. The message I got from it was, you live life, you fall into your place in life,you try to change it, and eventually you come home and see nothing has changed at all. Sort of depressing. Here was the kicker for me though...I love watching good actors put on good performances and become real people. So, I got sucked in big time. I felt like I was a fly on the wall in a home of discourse and disarray. I was able to just sit back and analyze and ponder and watch. Therefore, I loved it!
Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts outdid themselves in this over the top melodramatic movie. Really, there wasn't one actor that didn't impress me. The characters had to work to match each other in this one, and they all did quite well. I love when laughing can happen in the mist of chaos. Pretty much every soap opera moment you can think of death, divorce, stealing, incest, mystery...everything in one 2 hour package. Again, that doesn't mean there really was a point to the movie. Sure, I found some good life lessons thrown in, but really I felt like the movie was just a snapshot of a family and their coping, or lack of, mechanisms. I am sure the original screen play was written with deeper meanings and intents, there were plenty, but all in all the movie was just one big mash up of dysfunctional relationships. I really did enjoy it...I have a feeling that I may be one of the few...
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Tiff's Take:
Ugh. I had practically my whole review typed out earlier today. I came back tonight to finish it up and there was only one sentence down. "This movie was intense." Apparently two people can't update a post at the same time. One person will end up with nothing. That person was me. I'm not sure I have it in me to do it all again. However, my "This movie was intense" does wrap it up nicely.
To save myself the pain of rehashing what I already wrote, I'm going to defer to Deb's review for the details. There was a lot of crazy, dysfunction going on in this movie. With Deb loving the relationship aspect, it was just too much for me. Everyone was mean (mostly) and hopeless. There was nothing happy about this movie. And forget about closure in any way. This movie did not leave you feeling good about any part of any character.
However, it wasn't a complete loss. The acting was superb which was to be expected and the movie itself was really well done. So, I can see why there are Oscar nominations for this one. But, even though I usually like movies that are a little off the beaten path, this one was just more than I could handle.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night for the acting, Rent It for entertainment purposes so I go with Matinee overall.
Preview: Not sure what we'll see next week. Any ideas?
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Ewan McGregor, Dermot Mulroney, Abigail Breslin, Juliette Lewis, Julianne Nicholson, Benedict Cumberbatch (Basically a lot of well known actors and a few others thrown in.)
General Gist: A slightly estranged and dysfunctional family comes together after a crisis.
Deb's Take:
I am a relationship junkie. I people watch, get encapsulated by interactions and connections and get sucked into movies that dive into relationships. This movie was that kind of movie. To say this family was dysfunctional is an understatement. With an alcoholic father, a drug addicted mother and a past of craziness how could they not be? I will say though,this movie will not be a movie for everyone. When I really think about, this movie didn't really have a point. The message I got from it was, you live life, you fall into your place in life,you try to change it, and eventually you come home and see nothing has changed at all. Sort of depressing. Here was the kicker for me though...I love watching good actors put on good performances and become real people. So, I got sucked in big time. I felt like I was a fly on the wall in a home of discourse and disarray. I was able to just sit back and analyze and ponder and watch. Therefore, I loved it!
Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts outdid themselves in this over the top melodramatic movie. Really, there wasn't one actor that didn't impress me. The characters had to work to match each other in this one, and they all did quite well. I love when laughing can happen in the mist of chaos. Pretty much every soap opera moment you can think of death, divorce, stealing, incest, mystery...everything in one 2 hour package. Again, that doesn't mean there really was a point to the movie. Sure, I found some good life lessons thrown in, but really I felt like the movie was just a snapshot of a family and their coping, or lack of, mechanisms. I am sure the original screen play was written with deeper meanings and intents, there were plenty, but all in all the movie was just one big mash up of dysfunctional relationships. I really did enjoy it...I have a feeling that I may be one of the few...
Deb's Rate: Friday Night
Tiff's Take:
Ugh. I had practically my whole review typed out earlier today. I came back tonight to finish it up and there was only one sentence down. "This movie was intense." Apparently two people can't update a post at the same time. One person will end up with nothing. That person was me. I'm not sure I have it in me to do it all again. However, my "This movie was intense" does wrap it up nicely.
To save myself the pain of rehashing what I already wrote, I'm going to defer to Deb's review for the details. There was a lot of crazy, dysfunction going on in this movie. With Deb loving the relationship aspect, it was just too much for me. Everyone was mean (mostly) and hopeless. There was nothing happy about this movie. And forget about closure in any way. This movie did not leave you feeling good about any part of any character.
However, it wasn't a complete loss. The acting was superb which was to be expected and the movie itself was really well done. So, I can see why there are Oscar nominations for this one. But, even though I usually like movies that are a little off the beaten path, this one was just more than I could handle.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night for the acting, Rent It for entertainment purposes so I go with Matinee overall.
Preview: Not sure what we'll see next week. Any ideas?
Friday, January 24, 2014
2014: Week 4: Labor Day
Labor Day
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Kate Winslet, Josh Brolin, Gattlin Griffith
General Gist: A fugitive takes up residence in the home of a mother, who is fighting with depression and her 13 year old son.
Deb's Take:
Another pre-screening!! I do love free movies. We also had company this week. Glad Shelley and Lavon could be at this one with us. Another cool thing, since this movie was based on a book, and the author was actually present during the movie, we got a free book. Reading and movies..two of life's simple pleasures.
So.. the movie. I like Kate Winslet. She is such a great actress, and in this movie, she continued to be good old Kate. I was more impressed with Gattlin Griffith. He did a really good job. Kid actors amaze me sometimes. That being said, the movie was lacking. I like to read books and then go to movies because the movie is able to capture a "real" person, and the book fills in all the empty spots. The bad part about going to a movie without reading the book first...all the empty spots remain empty. Now, a really good movie won't leave you feeling empty even if a book is involved. This one just didn't do the trick. I felt like the development of the relationship was non existent. I didn't buy the whole 5 day love affair..yet a good movie can sell it. There was no real build up to the climax of the movie, and the climax was sort of blah....Since I got a free copy of the book I might as well give it a read and see if maybe some of the empty spots will be filled in, as well as determining if the love affair was more believable. As far as the movie standing alone, well, curl up on the couch and maybe fill a boring Friday night with a glass of wine and this movie.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Tiff's Take:
Yes! Movies and books. Two of my favorite things. This was a nice little surprise. But reading a book after seeing a movie is not necessarily ideal. So, not sure I'll actually make it around to reading this book but if I'm in a book drought I just might.
I guess I'm a little more forgiving then Deb on this one. You could definitely tell there was more to the story then what the movie showed. The weekend love affair was a little stretch for me too. But I thought it was an interesting story. Even if you had to read into it a little. I liked how it was from the perspective of the son too. It gave a little different twist on things. But yes, I wanted to know more about what Kate's character was thinking in trusting a stranger so quickly (and a fugitive at that) and what inner struggles the son was having throughout. Okay. so maybe I will read the book.
The acting was great though. I'm a huge fan of Kate Winslet since back in my Titanic obsession days. Gattlin Griffith was fantastic as well. Josh Brolin was good but the verdicts still out whether I'm a huge fan of his. In short, great acting but the book to screen adaptation could have been more insightful.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: With all the pre-screenings we aren't even sure what's really playing!
Genre: Drama
Main Players: Kate Winslet, Josh Brolin, Gattlin Griffith
General Gist: A fugitive takes up residence in the home of a mother, who is fighting with depression and her 13 year old son.
Deb's Take:
Another pre-screening!! I do love free movies. We also had company this week. Glad Shelley and Lavon could be at this one with us. Another cool thing, since this movie was based on a book, and the author was actually present during the movie, we got a free book. Reading and movies..two of life's simple pleasures.
So.. the movie. I like Kate Winslet. She is such a great actress, and in this movie, she continued to be good old Kate. I was more impressed with Gattlin Griffith. He did a really good job. Kid actors amaze me sometimes. That being said, the movie was lacking. I like to read books and then go to movies because the movie is able to capture a "real" person, and the book fills in all the empty spots. The bad part about going to a movie without reading the book first...all the empty spots remain empty. Now, a really good movie won't leave you feeling empty even if a book is involved. This one just didn't do the trick. I felt like the development of the relationship was non existent. I didn't buy the whole 5 day love affair..yet a good movie can sell it. There was no real build up to the climax of the movie, and the climax was sort of blah....Since I got a free copy of the book I might as well give it a read and see if maybe some of the empty spots will be filled in, as well as determining if the love affair was more believable. As far as the movie standing alone, well, curl up on the couch and maybe fill a boring Friday night with a glass of wine and this movie.
Deb's Rate: Rent It
Tiff's Take:
Yes! Movies and books. Two of my favorite things. This was a nice little surprise. But reading a book after seeing a movie is not necessarily ideal. So, not sure I'll actually make it around to reading this book but if I'm in a book drought I just might.
I guess I'm a little more forgiving then Deb on this one. You could definitely tell there was more to the story then what the movie showed. The weekend love affair was a little stretch for me too. But I thought it was an interesting story. Even if you had to read into it a little. I liked how it was from the perspective of the son too. It gave a little different twist on things. But yes, I wanted to know more about what Kate's character was thinking in trusting a stranger so quickly (and a fugitive at that) and what inner struggles the son was having throughout. Okay. so maybe I will read the book.
The acting was great though. I'm a huge fan of Kate Winslet since back in my Titanic obsession days. Gattlin Griffith was fantastic as well. Josh Brolin was good but the verdicts still out whether I'm a huge fan of his. In short, great acting but the book to screen adaptation could have been more insightful.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: With all the pre-screenings we aren't even sure what's really playing!
Friday, January 17, 2014
2014: Week 3: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
Genre: Action, Drama
Main Players: Chris Pine, Keira Knightley, Kevin Costner, Kenneth Branagh,
General Gist: A young Marine is recruited to become a covert CIA analyst and uncovers a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy.
Deb's Take:
First off WOW! What a great movie to see in the IMAX. I don't usually care if I see a movie in the IMAX theatre or not, but this is a great one to spend the extra couple bucks if you like a good thrill ride.
I will start by saying that movies that address the stock market, economy, international conspiracy, ect, always sort of make me feel ignorant. I am trying to do better at understanding worldly economics, how the stock market works and how the government comes into play. I am getting smarter, but still have a long way to go. This movie was all about terrorists, economy and the stock market. I think I actually had all the logistics figured out in this one. (Go Deb!) Because of my understanding the movie was much more enjoyable. It wasn't rocket science, but I'm still happy.
Ok, as far as the movie itself. I had forgotten how much I like Kevin Costner. He is such a cool actor. I like his calm, cool, collected nature that so many of his characters portray. He sort of seems that way in real life too. He did an excellent job in this movie, and, as usual, he was his calm, cool self. Chris Pine is an actor I often forget about until I stumble across one of his movies. He has the young boy charm, but the movie lover's face. What I liked most about his work in this movie, was the ability to capture the emotions of his character. He had some really badass chase scenes and stunts. He did such a great job. Kenneth Branagh plays an amazing bad guy. I would turn and run if I ever crossed his path in real life.
The story line was engaging and the action was non stop. There wasn't a point in this movie that I wasn't totally sucked in. A great date night movie! Thanks Leslie and Brian for joining us on this one!!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
I'll admit that action movies aren't my all time favorite types of movies but I always enjoy them. I really enjoyed this one. As Deb said, it was fantastic in IMAX. Definitely worth the extra cost to see it that way.
This was fast paced and kept you tensed up throughout the whole thing. That's a sure sign of a good action movie. What I liked about this one was that it didn't spend a lot of time setting things up. It got right to the point and just started right in. It wasn't unnecessarily lengthy. Another thing I liked about it was the fact that it wasn't super confusing. I knew who was bad, who was good, what the problem was and how they were going to fix it. I often enjoy these movies but I usually leave them not really sure what happened. So, good writing I guess.
I had no idea until after the fact that Jack Ryan is a character in other movies/books. So can't really compare how Chris Pine was versus Alec Baldwin or Harrison Ford or whoever else played Jack Ryan but I'll say he did pretty darn good in my opinion. They all did. I literally loved everyone in their roles. Well done!
Tiff's Rate: Definitely a strong Friday Night.
Preview: Looks like another pre-screening for us. "Labor Day" with Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin coming next week.
Genre: Action, Drama
Main Players: Chris Pine, Keira Knightley, Kevin Costner, Kenneth Branagh,
General Gist: A young Marine is recruited to become a covert CIA analyst and uncovers a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy.
Deb's Take:
First off WOW! What a great movie to see in the IMAX. I don't usually care if I see a movie in the IMAX theatre or not, but this is a great one to spend the extra couple bucks if you like a good thrill ride.
I will start by saying that movies that address the stock market, economy, international conspiracy, ect, always sort of make me feel ignorant. I am trying to do better at understanding worldly economics, how the stock market works and how the government comes into play. I am getting smarter, but still have a long way to go. This movie was all about terrorists, economy and the stock market. I think I actually had all the logistics figured out in this one. (Go Deb!) Because of my understanding the movie was much more enjoyable. It wasn't rocket science, but I'm still happy.
Ok, as far as the movie itself. I had forgotten how much I like Kevin Costner. He is such a cool actor. I like his calm, cool, collected nature that so many of his characters portray. He sort of seems that way in real life too. He did an excellent job in this movie, and, as usual, he was his calm, cool self. Chris Pine is an actor I often forget about until I stumble across one of his movies. He has the young boy charm, but the movie lover's face. What I liked most about his work in this movie, was the ability to capture the emotions of his character. He had some really badass chase scenes and stunts. He did such a great job. Kenneth Branagh plays an amazing bad guy. I would turn and run if I ever crossed his path in real life.
The story line was engaging and the action was non stop. There wasn't a point in this movie that I wasn't totally sucked in. A great date night movie! Thanks Leslie and Brian for joining us on this one!!
Deb's Rate: Opening Night
Tiff's Take:
I'll admit that action movies aren't my all time favorite types of movies but I always enjoy them. I really enjoyed this one. As Deb said, it was fantastic in IMAX. Definitely worth the extra cost to see it that way.
This was fast paced and kept you tensed up throughout the whole thing. That's a sure sign of a good action movie. What I liked about this one was that it didn't spend a lot of time setting things up. It got right to the point and just started right in. It wasn't unnecessarily lengthy. Another thing I liked about it was the fact that it wasn't super confusing. I knew who was bad, who was good, what the problem was and how they were going to fix it. I often enjoy these movies but I usually leave them not really sure what happened. So, good writing I guess.
I had no idea until after the fact that Jack Ryan is a character in other movies/books. So can't really compare how Chris Pine was versus Alec Baldwin or Harrison Ford or whoever else played Jack Ryan but I'll say he did pretty darn good in my opinion. They all did. I literally loved everyone in their roles. Well done!
Tiff's Rate: Definitely a strong Friday Night.
Preview: Looks like another pre-screening for us. "Labor Day" with Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin coming next week.
Friday, January 10, 2014
2014: Week 2: Her
Her
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
Main Players: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, voice of Scarlett Johansson
General Gist: A man develops a relationship with his personal operating system. No seriously. That's really what it's about.
Deb's Take:
I walked out of this movie quite torn. I am a sucker for romance and drama, but this movie pushed the whole idea to the limit. The movie was just bizarre. I have two thoughts that keep running through my mind. Either the movie was suppose to enlighten us about the overtaking of media and computers and how we are loosing connection with reality. Or, we are to be enlightened by the ability for emotions to take on any shape or form and that underneath it all, we just want to feel loved. I suppose maybe it wasn't either of those, but that's what I took from it.
Joaquin Phoenix plays some pretty quirky characters, and this movie was no exception. He is always right on the edge of crazy to me, and he did it again. He was wonderful in this movie, don't get me wrong, but wonderful and crazy fell pretty close together in this one. Amy Adams had a minor role, but did it well. Scarlett Johansson was just the voice of the computer, I guess I didn't really feel a connection with her because she wasn't "materialized". Another hmmm moment.
Although I think this movie taught some good lessons, and will make you think twice about life, love and relationships, I guess I'm a sucker for the old fashioned romance.
Deb's Rate: Rent It.
Tiff's Take:
I felt like I entered bizarro world the minute I sat down for this movie. We saw this at the Alamo Draft House downtown and for their previews they had these weird retro clips about computers but with a sexual twist. I'm sure it was just because of what the movie itself was about but it made me feel strange. And the movie hadn't even started.
I knew this wouldn't be just a normal love story with Joaquin Phoenix as the main guy. It wasn't. It was set in what appeared to be a futuristic LA maybe? But not so futuristic that it didn't seem realistic. But, apparently in the future everyone will be awkward. Almost like awkward is the new black. Everyone was awkward and it was perfectly normal. Is that really what we're destined to become?!
So in a nutshell, Joaquin's character is trying to get over a bad marriage and falls in love with, for all intents and purposes, a computer. They go on dates and have sex and all the normal stuff a couple does except one half of the relationship doesn't actually have a body. I will say though, after you get over the crazy (or maybe not so crazy) concept, it really felt like they just had a long distance relationship where they never got to see each other. If you thought of it that way it was sort of a sweet story. Unlike Deb, Scarlett Johansson as the voice of the computer, made me connect with the whole idea a little better.
But the bland colors, unfashionable hair and wool slacks that sat way too high on their waists reminded you that this is not a conventional story and maybe too far out there.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee. Can't get over the odd feeling it leaves you with to give it a higher rating.
Preview: Taking one for the kids..."The Nut Job"
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
Main Players: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, voice of Scarlett Johansson
General Gist: A man develops a relationship with his personal operating system. No seriously. That's really what it's about.
Deb's Take:
I walked out of this movie quite torn. I am a sucker for romance and drama, but this movie pushed the whole idea to the limit. The movie was just bizarre. I have two thoughts that keep running through my mind. Either the movie was suppose to enlighten us about the overtaking of media and computers and how we are loosing connection with reality. Or, we are to be enlightened by the ability for emotions to take on any shape or form and that underneath it all, we just want to feel loved. I suppose maybe it wasn't either of those, but that's what I took from it.
Joaquin Phoenix plays some pretty quirky characters, and this movie was no exception. He is always right on the edge of crazy to me, and he did it again. He was wonderful in this movie, don't get me wrong, but wonderful and crazy fell pretty close together in this one. Amy Adams had a minor role, but did it well. Scarlett Johansson was just the voice of the computer, I guess I didn't really feel a connection with her because she wasn't "materialized". Another hmmm moment.
Although I think this movie taught some good lessons, and will make you think twice about life, love and relationships, I guess I'm a sucker for the old fashioned romance.
Deb's Rate: Rent It.
Tiff's Take:
I felt like I entered bizarro world the minute I sat down for this movie. We saw this at the Alamo Draft House downtown and for their previews they had these weird retro clips about computers but with a sexual twist. I'm sure it was just because of what the movie itself was about but it made me feel strange. And the movie hadn't even started.
I knew this wouldn't be just a normal love story with Joaquin Phoenix as the main guy. It wasn't. It was set in what appeared to be a futuristic LA maybe? But not so futuristic that it didn't seem realistic. But, apparently in the future everyone will be awkward. Almost like awkward is the new black. Everyone was awkward and it was perfectly normal. Is that really what we're destined to become?!
So in a nutshell, Joaquin's character is trying to get over a bad marriage and falls in love with, for all intents and purposes, a computer. They go on dates and have sex and all the normal stuff a couple does except one half of the relationship doesn't actually have a body. I will say though, after you get over the crazy (or maybe not so crazy) concept, it really felt like they just had a long distance relationship where they never got to see each other. If you thought of it that way it was sort of a sweet story. Unlike Deb, Scarlett Johansson as the voice of the computer, made me connect with the whole idea a little better.
But the bland colors, unfashionable hair and wool slacks that sat way too high on their waists reminded you that this is not a conventional story and maybe too far out there.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee. Can't get over the odd feeling it leaves you with to give it a higher rating.
Preview: Taking one for the kids..."The Nut Job"
Friday, February 15, 2013
2013: Side Effects
Side Effects
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Main Players: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Channing Tatum, Catherine Zeta-Jones
General Gist: A woman's life falls to pieces when the side effects of her medication get the best of her.
Deb's Take:
Fun little facts. Rooney Mara's family is really big in the football NFL world. She earned her degree in international social policy and psychology. Her older sister is also an actress.
The reason I looked her up is because she is sort of a freaky actress. I first saw her in Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and now in this movie. I don't know what I expected to find out about her personal life, maybe that she was a troubled teen who lived on the streets, under a bridge, until she was discovered by an agent who gave her a break and she still lives in a small studio apartment in downtown Detroit. HA..look her up, that is so not her story!
Anyway, what I think that says about her, is that she is a pretty good actress, because I truly believed she was a very troubled individual in this movie (as well as Dragon Tattoo). This movie was not what I expected. In fact I had a coat ready in case I needed to hide my face. Not that kind of movie. The other thing, I sort of pride myself on being able to figure out the twists in a movie. This one had me jumping around all over the place, up to the end I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. Like I said, Rooney was good. Jude Law was pretty good too, and Catherine Zeta-Jones really impressed me. I am always a little surprised at her talents.
All that being said, the movie wasn't bad. I think it wove a good thriller weave of webs. I can't say it was anything magnificent, but it was entertaining. Not one that will rate up there with my top 10, but could have been worse!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Tiff's Take:
I was excited about this movie because I LOVED Rooney Mara in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I thought she portrayed Lisbeth Salander perfectly. And Lisbeth Salander is probably one of my favorite fictional characters so it makes it easy to like Rooney Mara too. Following my logic? I know, sometimes I have a hard time separating fiction and reality.
Well, the previews for this leaves you very confused. Who is the bad guy or good guy or what really happens? At least that's how I felt watching them. The movie almost leaves you just as confused until the very end. And even then I think I'm still a little confused. So does the good guy (and by guy I mean guy or girl-I don't want to spoil it) end up being the bad guy when it's all said and done? I'm not an over thinker when it comes to my movie watching so I didn't sit and ponder it too long but this movie definitely keeps you on your toes. Isn't that what makes these movies good?
It was a really interesting story and the actors really played their parts well. Especially Rooney and Jude. Channing Tatum was just okay I guess. His role was more minor then I thought it would be. Honestly his part could have been played by anyone and it wouldn't have made much of a difference. I still love Rooney Mara even if she seems to be drawn to slightly disturbing characters. Maybe that's why I like her. And when it comes to suspenseful thrillers, I think this one hit it right on the head.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
Genre: Drama, Thriller
Main Players: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Channing Tatum, Catherine Zeta-Jones
General Gist: A woman's life falls to pieces when the side effects of her medication get the best of her.
Deb's Take:
Fun little facts. Rooney Mara's family is really big in the football NFL world. She earned her degree in international social policy and psychology. Her older sister is also an actress.
The reason I looked her up is because she is sort of a freaky actress. I first saw her in Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and now in this movie. I don't know what I expected to find out about her personal life, maybe that she was a troubled teen who lived on the streets, under a bridge, until she was discovered by an agent who gave her a break and she still lives in a small studio apartment in downtown Detroit. HA..look her up, that is so not her story!
Anyway, what I think that says about her, is that she is a pretty good actress, because I truly believed she was a very troubled individual in this movie (as well as Dragon Tattoo). This movie was not what I expected. In fact I had a coat ready in case I needed to hide my face. Not that kind of movie. The other thing, I sort of pride myself on being able to figure out the twists in a movie. This one had me jumping around all over the place, up to the end I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. Like I said, Rooney was good. Jude Law was pretty good too, and Catherine Zeta-Jones really impressed me. I am always a little surprised at her talents.
All that being said, the movie wasn't bad. I think it wove a good thriller weave of webs. I can't say it was anything magnificent, but it was entertaining. Not one that will rate up there with my top 10, but could have been worse!
Deb's Rate: Matinee
Tiff's Take:
I was excited about this movie because I LOVED Rooney Mara in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I thought she portrayed Lisbeth Salander perfectly. And Lisbeth Salander is probably one of my favorite fictional characters so it makes it easy to like Rooney Mara too. Following my logic? I know, sometimes I have a hard time separating fiction and reality.
Well, the previews for this leaves you very confused. Who is the bad guy or good guy or what really happens? At least that's how I felt watching them. The movie almost leaves you just as confused until the very end. And even then I think I'm still a little confused. So does the good guy (and by guy I mean guy or girl-I don't want to spoil it) end up being the bad guy when it's all said and done? I'm not an over thinker when it comes to my movie watching so I didn't sit and ponder it too long but this movie definitely keeps you on your toes. Isn't that what makes these movies good?
It was a really interesting story and the actors really played their parts well. Especially Rooney and Jude. Channing Tatum was just okay I guess. His role was more minor then I thought it would be. Honestly his part could have been played by anyone and it wouldn't have made much of a difference. I still love Rooney Mara even if she seems to be drawn to slightly disturbing characters. Maybe that's why I like her. And when it comes to suspenseful thrillers, I think this one hit it right on the head.
Tiff's Rate: Friday Night
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