tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45574053687542219332024-02-21T07:55:45.693-08:00Film ReverieFilm reviews, musing, collection updates and more...Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-23808313044236684022017-01-26T18:51:00.003-08:002017-01-26T18:51:46.944-08:00 Assassin's Creed Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCLYrHr-zKW5_bFQyC8AO5OH1sVK6zxtTxs09ZLUQRLeQhsRCxshYUV5ZmQwVFcKapnHtR-_d-KKncWBFuc1Lq-oMKhWmSBNJ2xxOSF93iady8NzIwE3OyORcZjWSYkCfaI-HWIryhtpy/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCLYrHr-zKW5_bFQyC8AO5OH1sVK6zxtTxs09ZLUQRLeQhsRCxshYUV5ZmQwVFcKapnHtR-_d-KKncWBFuc1Lq-oMKhWmSBNJ2xxOSF93iady8NzIwE3OyORcZjWSYkCfaI-HWIryhtpy/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Stunning costume and set design is present throughout. As is some </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>gorgeous </i><i>cinematography.</i></div>
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Assassin's Creed, the video game turned film that was intended to break the video game film curse, the very same film that has been taking a hammering from critics. Many claiming it to be an incoherent and hard to understand mess and others hammering it for its acting among other factors. First before I get into the meat of this review I fell obligated to note that I am someone who has played and enjoyed several of the games, so I likely take some level of baggage into the film.<br />
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Assassin's Creed stars Michael Fassbender as Calum and Marion Cotillard as Sofia, a Templar who has kidnapped Calum with the hopes of finding the location of an apple of Eden artefact she thinks can cure violence. Why she suspects or believes this is sadly not present in the film, which lives her reasoning for searching for this artefact questionable at best. None the less Calum is put in a machine called the Animus and relives the history of an ancestor of his from over 500 years ago in Spain. How this works isn't really explained in much detail (as it is in the first game) and it really should have been. As it stands it likely well feel a little silly to people new to this fiction as well as being reminiscent of the Matrix films. It none the less all flows rather nicely and is a core component of every Assassin's Creed that you have to be willing to accept to have any chance of enjoying the rest of the film. It simply needed a better explanation as to how it worked for newcomers.<br />
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<i>Whilst Assassin's Creed boasts a strong and exceedingly credible cast, </i></div>
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<i>the performances </i><i>are at times uneven.</i></div>
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The pace is swift and we are quickly introduced to Aguilar, Cal's descendent in the past sequences. These sequences are those which mostly focus on high levels of action, which is fast frenetic and enjoyable if a little over edited. The visual pizzazz on display is quite the feast for the eyes, the costume and world design of 15th century Spain is fantastically dirty, dusty mess. This contrasts nicely with the overly sterile appearance present in the modern segments. Both of which are nicely complement by the score by Jed Kurzel, the directors brother.<br />
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Unfortunately as the sequences set in the past start to build some solid traction the film either cuts to Calum doing the same actions in the Animus machine, or much like the game returns as to the modern portion of the film where we come to a screeching halt. It is not that these sequences are bad per se, they certainly are far better then such sequences in the game series. But I can't help but find the return jarring that left me wanting more time with Aguilar as apposed to Cal. It certainly doesn't help that the performances are at times uneven, though unlike some reviews I was never confused by what was happening. Though perhaps this is due to my familiarity with the game series, I still none the less find it suspect that some have claimed the films story is difficult to follow (much like happened with the first Silent Hill film).<br />
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<i>No doubt a gorgeous film, but sadly hurt by some overly frantic editing.</i></div>
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Sofia and the Templars search for the apple of Eden all which leads to a finale that is surprisingly restrained which I found quite refreshing in a market of blockbusters that far to frequently have city's crumbling. All of which adds up to an experience that is a visual and audio thrill ride that is largely only let down by it's previously mentioned issues resulting from some overly aggressive editing, uneven performances and characters that simply aren't as fleshed out as they really should have been.<br />
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Assassin's Creed is far from a masterpiece, it however is also hardly the disaster many have painted it as. It is undoubtedly a flawed film. Maybe I am simply being blinded by my enjoyment of the games, but I found the film to be a flawed but none the less enjoyable film that has a great sense of style present throughout along with some solid action. For some that may not be enough, which is understandable. None the less Assassin's Creed comes tentatively recommended.<br />
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<b>What about the 3d?</b> I sadly was not able to see this film in 3d, but based on the trailer I have seen in the format along with comments from people who have seen it in 3d, it certainly seems to be a film that best seen in that format if you are indeed choosing to give this film a watch.<br />
<br />Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-84178666429874472542015-12-13T19:42:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:29.376-08:00Ex Machina Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdD3a8tIUWLsdCigm-yyU_0fDo7gdaDkHXAnro1hQ9xwRpUFsgoPbR6Wndr7ppq3Tm7Vmp4ydllf-rq8kG6XiM2GwdHxdQH85uWED8dFQV3kkK6b_aWXT9HjTMQqPbcqG2fdsutAQ19SRs/s1600/exmachina3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdD3a8tIUWLsdCigm-yyU_0fDo7gdaDkHXAnro1hQ9xwRpUFsgoPbR6Wndr7ppq3Tm7Vmp4ydllf-rq8kG6XiM2GwdHxdQH85uWED8dFQV3kkK6b_aWXT9HjTMQqPbcqG2fdsutAQ19SRs/s640/exmachina3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The questions Ex Machina asks are well established but none the less</i></div>
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<i>remain both interesting and engaging.</i></div>
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Ex Machina is a highly ambitious film and is Alex Garlands first time directing a film, who some may know from his role in writing films such as Sunshine, Never Let Me Go and Dredd. Knowing this I was skeptical at the likelihood that the film would be able to be thematically consistent without obvious dips in quality throughout. Unfortunately my skepticism was correct albeit not in the manner that I had expected it to be.<br />
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Ex Machina starts with a young programmer Caleb winning the ability to spend time with his boss. Immediately this seemed a bit odd as who really wants to win spending time with there boss? But ultimately I simply assumed it was a chance for Caleb to meet a great mind in the industry. However once he meets his boss Nathan he seems to be little more then an alcoholic with little apparent intreset in his work. Which is contrary to everything else presented on screen and as it turns out Nathan is working on creating artificial intelligence and wants Caleb to test the artificial intelligence named Ava and see if he sees her as sentient.<br />
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<i>The slowly reveal of characters through there intentions and actions throughout</i></div>
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<i>it a joy to watch.</i></div>
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As the film continues and the various characters motivations become clearer, your feelings towards the characters will likely shift dramatically. Characters aren't stagnant and whilst they don't grow as characters throughout the film, more is slowly revealed about them that in some cases will drastically change your opinion of them. This is easily where Ex Machina is at its best. It helps that the three leads all deliver fabulous and believable multilayered performances<br />
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Thematically Ex Machina also shines and had me pondering questions it puts forward. Admittedly these are far from new questions about consciousness and similar, but they are still presented in an interesting manner that provided a fresh twist on what will likely be familiar territory for most fans of this genre. Ex Machina is also gorgeously photographed with the machinery of Ava being aprticularly striking when placed directly against nature. Likewise the score is both unique and at times chilling that adds to a film that could otherwise at times feel a little empty given the few characters present. Sadly not all is well with Ex Machina.<br />
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The technical aspects the film uses it fairly route and poorly done, but this isn't anything all that unexpected for a film dabbling with the ideas presented here. It however does connect and lead to one very large flaw which sadly directly impacts the ending. The ending itself starts out strongly and has some truly remarkable moments. However as it continued as much as I wanted to love everything that was happening on screen I simply didn't. Not that it is bad per se, but it feels like less then it could have easily been, with odd choices early in the film at least for me giving away the finale. The films big shock moment in particular I found to be not particularly shocking (though i'm sure it will shock many) and the most painful thing about he above is how close it comes to greatness.<br />
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<i>Ex Machina is consistently a visually striking film that looks far better </i></div>
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<i>then its relatively meager budget may suggest.</i></div>
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Sadly with just a few small tweaks it could easily have been surprising and as shocking as the film makers seem to have wanted it to be. Alas those changes will never be and whilst they are minor in the scope of the film as a whole, they do deride what is an otherwise marvelous film.<br />
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If nothing else Ex Machina had me asking questions I had pondered many times before again. I also greatly enjoyed the slow reveal of the characters present. Admittedly the themes and questions they pose are really no different to what Blade Runner covered over thirty years ago (or numerous other films and novels that are far older then Blade Runner). None the less Ex Machina had me contemplating those themes from what felt like a fresh perspective, even though it really was simply retreading familiar territory. Whilst a deeply flawed film Ex Machina still comes highly recommended.<br />
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Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-33577375549514812122015-11-02T00:28:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.378-08:00Jurassic World Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Jurassic World with its odd choice of 2.00:1 framing is unique if nothing else.</i></div>
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In recent years there has been a continuing and escalating trend of what for some is a no doubt a worrying trend. Larger Hollywood films in particular have become far to reliant revisiting old film franchises or continuing existing well known franchises, churn out sequel after sequel with few new original series being given a chance. Whilst this is far from an ideal situation it doesn't negate that some of this films are terrific regardless. With that in mind does Jurassic World flounder or does it thrive, breathing new life into a series that apart from the first entry has garnered a middling response.<br />
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Jurassic World quickly introduces as to a plethora of characters often dedicating entire scenes to these introductions with one character introduction after the other. This may seem great and in theory it would be. The problem is that whilst it so clearly wants to use these scenes to invest us in the characters for the rest of the film, the characters are particularly one dimensional and these introductions serve little purpose then show the rather basic archetypes that each character is. There is the business focused character, so focused on her job she has not time for family and is running the newly established Jurassic World. The "charming" adventurous type character along with the character we are so obviously meant to hate, and two admittedly not so annoying brothers which is rather new ground for this series.<br />
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<i>The Dinosaurs along with other effects often feel oddly disconnected</i></div>
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<i>from there surroundings.</i> </div>
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But this is a Jurassic Park film, so dinosaurs must break free somehow and chaos must ensure, an this ensemble of rather generic characters is more then up to the task. I will first admit the first 'creature' (as they continuously say things like "it is not dinosaur" and similar) to escape does so in what is a rather exciting sequence. The problem is, that even whilst this sequence was entertaining enough, the characters actions that allow this to happen are so poorly thought out one wouldn't expect them to be in charge of containing numerous dinosaurs, but alas they are and thus we have the catalyst for what will be the driving force behind the film.<br />
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Of course things don't go so smoothly but from this point the film continues to not only be fairly predictable, but overly reliant on referencing the far better first entry of this series. Characters take breaks from being hunted by some monster that was just recently trying to eat them to slowly walk through and notice things that I can only assume was meant to fill me full of nostalgia from enjoying the first film. The action present whilst no doubt well staged is a mostly dull affair as the films continues and the scripts hard to ignore issues continue to weigh the film down. That isn't to say that there are no scenes that will grab your attention, just that many fail to do so. The poor and nonsensical plotting continues through to the finale with several not only implausible scenes but impractical scenes occuring all to let the film stumble into its final act where things become even more ludicrous and sadly not in a good way.<br />
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Jurassic World had obvious potential, how hard can it really be to put together a good enough script where dinosaurs cause chaos. Sadly the script seems to have been a rushed and the director seems to have simply not been ready to lead such a large film. This along with the above mentioned issues result in a film that is poorly paced, derivative and rarely involving. For those looking for nothing but some dinosaur carnage Jurassic World will provide for serviceable entertainment. However for everyone else Jurassic World does not come recommended.<br />
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<i>No awards for guessing who the tired and forced semi-love story is</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>between in Jurassic World.</i></div>
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What about the 3d: Like far to many of the larger budget films of recent, Jurassic World was not shoot in 3d, with the film makers opting to shoot on a mixture of 35mm and 65mm film. The result at first are quite good, but as the films continues the 3d whilst still present is overly cautious. Likewise there are notable conversion errors such as warping or objects placed at the wrong depth levels. I imagine few will notice these faults, they however are none the less issues that detract from a 3d presentation that clearly needed more time and/or care. Likewise darker scenes which where clearly shoot on film lack detail in the darkest of sections which results in such scenes looking relatively flat.<br />
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With that said the film certainly is improved by the addition of 3d with action scenes in particular working for better then when viewed in 3d with everything being far easier to keep track of. For those who have always hated 3d, its use here will likely not convince you otherwise. For those who have enjoyed the format at all, 3d is the way to view Jurassic World. Note: for those who have enjoyed this film and enjoyed its use of 3d I would strongly recommend you view the original Jurassic Park in 3d, it use of the format is superior with higher levels of depth, that and the film is far more enjoyable.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-90652374676712438042015-10-28T01:21:00.000-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.472-08:00In Your Eyes Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Whilst In Your Eyes isn't going to win awards for its cinematography it's none</i></div>
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<i>the less an occasionally stunning film.</i></div>
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In Your Eyes is a film that not only bypassed your local cinema, but also bypassed a traditional home video release. Instead opting for a straight to digital release, initially being sold for five dollars (though it has since been put on streaming services and a physical release is planned for early next year). Usually when I see a film that is intended to not go to cinemas I plan for the worse. Typically the production values are middling at best and the films typically have so little passion behind them it is remarkable they where ever completed. Recent years however have shown a distinct change in direction, with numerous smaller films intended for digital distribution not only being surprisingly good, but far better then many of the films in your local multiplex. This however still remains the exception to the norm, and with In Your Eyes being billed as a romantic comedy, my expectations couldn't be lower, that is until I heard of Joss Whedon's involvement (best known for television work such as Buffy and Firefly and those small Avenger comic book films).<br />
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The premise is simple, there are two individuals who have never directly meet but share a bond, and often feeling what the other feels (both physically and mentally). In a more comic book style film this would likely lead to an early realization of this and how this is possible would be explored. However in this film it leads to the two individuals living there lives separately, confused and understandably not understanding what they are experiencing. Unaware of what is happening both individuals are damaged by this in different ways. This however all changes when they suddenly are able to communicate with one another and see what the other sees and understand what has been happening to them for decades.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fSUiq4ydg3jNps_pafHxAvKlEMpYQ-QbCMjGlKGzBGbYglWUJt1e5SANKzZEmS5P_esks_NFAUVGSH2KysGZAuXljMwdG-5h2BWiLLd1FvR4I188nYThFLT9w1DEW2hYVCCD9B964jME/s1600/inyoureyes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fSUiq4ydg3jNps_pafHxAvKlEMpYQ-QbCMjGlKGzBGbYglWUJt1e5SANKzZEmS5P_esks_NFAUVGSH2KysGZAuXljMwdG-5h2BWiLLd1FvR4I188nYThFLT9w1DEW2hYVCCD9B964jME/s640/inyoureyes2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The two different locations presented help reinforce the connection the two leads</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> have </i><i>in spite of there obvious physical separation.</i></div>
<br />
At first as you may expect, both characters think they are simply loosing there minds but quickly they come to the realization that what is happening is real. From there the film quite tightly follows the typical romcom formula, although I wouldn't call this film a romcom, rather it is an indie romance that simply follows a well know formula from another genre. We all know the basic outline for a romcom, hurdles are presented to the relationship that must be overcome, the boy must chase the girl at some point and so on. One may assume that the large distinction this film has over other similar films is that the characters are never in the same state, let alone the same room. But beyond being a spring board and providing a unique twist, the connection they share isn't directly what makes the film shine, and is little more then a plot deivce. Simply put the film comes of as genuine especially when compare to most other films, let alone other romcom or romance films. Likewise it doesn't rush a forced relationship upon the viewer that no one is going to believe. Instead it slowly reveals the flaws that this abnormal connection has caused and slowly shows how what was once so damaging was slowly healing itself and how they had unknowingly also helped on another previously in a well paced build that is surprisingly touching.<br />
<br />
With that said In Your Eyes is far from perfect. The last few minutes in particular fells tonally of from what had been present up to that point. Likewise those who are looking for a truly unique film that explores the ramifications of this connection the two leads share beyond how it directly has and continues to effect them will no doubt be left disappointing. With that said it is abundantly clear that In Your Eyes has not interest exploring how this phenomena has occurred and the rules by which it complies. Rather the film simply uses it as a device to spring forward a different take on what is an over-saturated and largely stagnant genre.<br />
<br />
With all that said, In Your Eyes isn't the film that will convince those who are not a fan of romance based films otherwise. It does however offer what is amusingly a far more believable relationship then one typically sees in such films, and whilst it does stumble in its finale it remains a refreshing film with a paltry number of issue compared to everything it does well. Recommended.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-49165804010201522572015-03-29T19:46:00.000-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.406-08:00Zhong Kui: Snow Girl And The Dark Crystal Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqAXWrcsp9m_GB5L11RySY9TCsnY63wkVqQNLuUBg1HOAGvK8oAzRIW20_xLQok9IX6nUuoUPgqkF8DBO6jSf1pI4b8N9j0CRo2BTRshOo_Kk7KyhKicw43Gd4V6Yb-fqDcGbT_yw1-vO/s1600/ZhongKui.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqAXWrcsp9m_GB5L11RySY9TCsnY63wkVqQNLuUBg1HOAGvK8oAzRIW20_xLQok9IX6nUuoUPgqkF8DBO6jSf1pI4b8N9j0CRo2BTRshOo_Kk7KyhKicw43Gd4V6Yb-fqDcGbT_yw1-vO/s1600/ZhongKui.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Zhong
Kui is a young warrior who is trained and bestowed powers by a god
for the purpose of fighting and killing demons. The powers he is
granted turns himself into a large 'monster' like creature when he
opens up a fan. Zhong Kui also awkwardly pulls out his spine when in this
'monster' form which he then uses as a sword. Zhong is then commanded
by this god to take the dark crystal from hell which he does and hell wanting it back sends demon's in the form of beautiful women to reclaim it and thus begins a
series of twist involving poorly established love angles, poorly
staged action, embarrassing dialogue and acting combined with some stunningly bad
editing.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
So
it should be abundantly clear that I did not enjoy the individual
parts of this film or the film as a whole. One of the larger issues
is how cheap everything looks, which in many films would be a minor
issue. However given how much time is spent viewing these sub par effects and that it is clearly intended to be part of the draw and you
have something that is not only exceedingly dull to watch, but cheap
enough that one could be mistaken for assuming this was a made for tv
syfy original. To be far the costumes whilst nothing special are passable and it
does seem that the poor effects are more a result of the overly low
budget for what the film was hoping to achieve. But none of this makes
the results any more palatable. I will say that whilst for most of
the film the 3d is wasted their are a handful of breathtaking
shoots where the 3d is well utilized. However for most of the film
you could easily forget you where viewing a 3d film and thus if you
do decide to see this film, it is not worth paying the additional
premium to view it in 3d. However fans looking to pick it up on
blu-ray will likely be happier with the 3d release for a small
additional cost for what would presumably be multiple more viewings.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
larger issue however is the acting and story. The story fells overly
simply with the twists being as obvious as possible, yet set up and revealed as if they wher meant to shock. The dialogue
is atrocious and the acting does this poor writing no help either.
Frequently falling into what some may view as laughably bad
territory, I however was simply bored by what was occurring. The
editing only makes such issues more obvious and goes as far as to
have two characters meet and then show you the scene after for why you
should care about the characters in the previous scene meeting so that the previous scene can be effective. This obviously doesn't work in the films favour and
simply has me confused as to how someone could edit a film together and
feel that this was the most effective placement of scenes. Likewise large
scale action set pieces start as quickly as they end and the film
starts dragging early on yet refuses to give it the brisk pacing that a story
as simple as this demands.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It
is rare that I come across a film with as few redeeming features as
Zhong Kui: Snow Girl And The Dark Crystal. With the exception of a
passable but well trod concept and a handful of beautiful 3d shoots
there is nothing I can say I enjoyed. With most of the film been a dull chore that makes even the most toxic of poorly made action films that spew out of Hollywood seem
like relative masterpieces. My recommendation, stay very far away.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-58135428398436724212015-03-15T23:04:00.000-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.431-08:00Collection Updates (March 2015)Their was another 20% of sale and thus I picked up a number of blu-rays. I will also take this moment to note I am hoping to post Sunday every week, which I have stumbled in doing so recently. I however should be back on track for a review most Sundays with the occasional collection update or other movie related post.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqRbpV2uLjmu25bXUKHVSMSoU8qSBTzDBdqLvh2cdlx3_RB2zf3pXzenPfxriCtBCeA9pT9KAEXTZUSR7in9pqhiLeXDSUZRaHFVWW6UhqrQXSPJzbnqiP7lq3Hww72CuxLRcrEZEqDcX/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqRbpV2uLjmu25bXUKHVSMSoU8qSBTzDBdqLvh2cdlx3_RB2zf3pXzenPfxriCtBCeA9pT9KAEXTZUSR7in9pqhiLeXDSUZRaHFVWW6UhqrQXSPJzbnqiP7lq3Hww72CuxLRcrEZEqDcX/s1600/1.jpg" height="270" width="640" /></a></div>
Lucy is a film that whilst a gigantic box office success seems to have received a rather mixed response which after viewing some trailers and promotional materials I can understand why. The film itself has an exceedingly fast pace yet contains very little action which is what the film advertising material promised. It likewise is a film that I imagine will be divisive, I myself found it to be a stylish, brisk and silly ride that was a joy to view. The blu-ray itself is absolutely stunning with reference audio and video.<br />
<br />
The Young and Prodigious T.S Spivet is a film that few will have seen as it has struggled to even have a release in numerous markets. It is a fantastic film with absolutely stunning 3d that I can't recommend highly enough. The 3d is amongst the best available which is certainly a nice bonus for those who are enthusiasts of the format and those who are 3d ready. As is the cost of the 3d and 2d release being the same price that a 2d only blu-ray release usually is.<br />
<br />
Life of Pi is another film that features reference 3d and along with The Young and Prodigious T.S Spivet and Hugo are amongst the format has to offer. None of which are action films which despite the common view that 3d is only beneficial for sci-fi and action films the 3d here adds far more then 3d has for any action film.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMUcpa0bxwIuzJCLZiRKp44rn74wlAFDL5CLylow3pIp3pUn0W3pLjZqz2IdNIjf_19PjdBtpTIy2zH8KiskJ5kkpDT9A5wNSpdKHYdIpqJ0GTPN-cV0gNq2IuvGAviOYDue33SJL3S7Ca/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMUcpa0bxwIuzJCLZiRKp44rn74wlAFDL5CLylow3pIp3pUn0W3pLjZqz2IdNIjf_19PjdBtpTIy2zH8KiskJ5kkpDT9A5wNSpdKHYdIpqJ0GTPN-cV0gNq2IuvGAviOYDue33SJL3S7Ca/s1600/2.jpg" height="400" width="332" /></a></div>
<br />
Not much has to be said about Game of Thrones as their is little to nothing I could say about season 4 that hasn't already been repeated ad nauseum. I will note that if you like me don't often veiw any television shows, I would strongly recommend considering giving it a chance.. I must also note though that whilst the Australians rating logo is always horrid, it is particularly bad with simplistic designs as it is in the above. I have only viewed one episode thus far on blu-ray but the transfer is as stunning as the previous seasons. Which brings me to the end of this rather small collection update.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-23915832613644601132015-03-01T18:53:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.371-08:00Let Me In Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKIG61FbG99etjilQ3SpBXe2FyIpR3eke7UQ7yv20lIQwvZLsuSJjyDrO_eKYUcDF2GetXIAbXLNhLdkm_5tCbwxFyZW6sPfM4euKrNxfdKuBAma-gF4dAJyyClT5oR57_ZW_uMnenQ0k3/s1600/letmein3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKIG61FbG99etjilQ3SpBXe2FyIpR3eke7UQ7yv20lIQwvZLsuSJjyDrO_eKYUcDF2GetXIAbXLNhLdkm_5tCbwxFyZW6sPfM4euKrNxfdKuBAma-gF4dAJyyClT5oR57_ZW_uMnenQ0k3/s1600/letmein3.jpg" height="266" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Let Me In features two of the strongest lead performances I </i><i>can recall which</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>is all the more surprising giving the leads ages.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Let
Me In is an adaptation of both the novel and screenplay by John
Ajvide Lindqvistof's Let The Right One In, and is both written and
directed by Matt Reeves who’s most notable previous work was
Cloverfield and has since directed the fantastic Dawn of the Planet
of the Apes. Whilst I am no fan of Twilight, its advent has allowed
for a number of vampire films that I find myself to have thoroughly
enjoyed such as Only Lovers Left Alive and Byzantium. All of which
are films that seemingly where only made possible by the
extraordinary success the Twilight films achieved in spite of their
own qualities. So is Let Me In another triumph or does it suffer the
same fate as a lesser quality vampire film.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Let
Me in is a film about the difficulties of adolescence and follows the
young boy Owen who is relentlessly bullied at school and has not real
support from home where his parents who are divorced are to busy with
other matters to even notice the issues Owen is facing, let alone
help him with them. Which is where Abby comes in, having recently
moved into the same apartment complex as Owen she senses his
loneliness and for 'questionable' reasons decides to befriend Owen.
This is where Let Me In quickly differentiates itself from other
films as it develops into what is a far more complex narrative then
we usually see in genre films such as this as characters both young
and old are well realized and have numerous reasons for their
actions. At its core however Let Me In remains a film about
isolation, adolescence and love.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnYiDwBQwS3hnpw9UGqQiPuFTzy3p9vaKbXyYJyCjBIv_YzqnnnNrVzc2KgqBK8fBgcgh1ENLQNVQPEJccmNMdoJJbL-1j9Xlpt0fAJOn7QnJn92Cv7KjCJ8lHDQh7FtkYIr6wBof59Fk/s1600/LetMeIn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnYiDwBQwS3hnpw9UGqQiPuFTzy3p9vaKbXyYJyCjBIv_YzqnnnNrVzc2KgqBK8fBgcgh1ENLQNVQPEJccmNMdoJJbL-1j9Xlpt0fAJOn7QnJn92Cv7KjCJ8lHDQh7FtkYIr6wBof59Fk/s1600/LetMeIn2.jpg" height="266" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Let Me In is one of the darkest films in recent memory and will test</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>even the best of displays.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Performances
are simply sublime and the two child leads give far better
performances then the overwhelming majority of films and are amongst
the best performances I have seen let alone those by
children/teenagers. The supporting cast for the most part has less to
work with but are similarly impressive and the whole film is cloaked
in darkness that whilst gorgeous will test even the best of displays
to faithfully replicate the intended appearance. As expected from
Michael Giacchino the score is similarly ominous with bursts of
beauty that superbly enhances the film without becoming overwhelming
or aggressive.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
main issue I expected I may have is that the film is strikingly
similar to the Swedish film Let The Right One In, which whilst not
entirely unexpected given that they are not only both based on the
same source material but Let Me In is also based on the screenplay
for the Swedish film, it was still worrisome given the .poor track
record of American remakes of foreign films. At a cursory glance
those familiar with Let The Right One In will find numerous shoots in
the trailers for Let Me In that closely resemble one another and as
one may expect the stories in both films are strikingly similar.
However whilst there are certainly elements that closely resemble on
another the two films are notably different. Most notably is the
characters growth throughout the film being different to those in the
original film and book. Likewise unlike the 'original' film, Let Me
In remains aggressive and horrific throughout its entire proceedings
(which ties in nicely with the leads perception of violence as the
film progresses).
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
At
it's core Let Me In is a film about isolation, the terrors of
adolescence and love. Put simply Let Me In should not be missed and
comes with my highest recommendation.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-54000599108438542015-02-22T11:42:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.415-08:00Jupiter Ascending Review<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9uwyJ2afUj4WdPWQ9dA7VPKiXkMN1Vv7MtSTB497lX9pLbxhJZBl0FLW2s079RhuBEYoiKQgrDZTuFNy3QK75aIHq15BwINSUccGNvuq_xs_intAM9SaQkgxPpt9KUrTHAc6AvN2zOMN/s1600/jupiterascending2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9uwyJ2afUj4WdPWQ9dA7VPKiXkMN1Vv7MtSTB497lX9pLbxhJZBl0FLW2s079RhuBEYoiKQgrDZTuFNy3QK75aIHq15BwINSUccGNvuq_xs_intAM9SaQkgxPpt9KUrTHAc6AvN2zOMN/s1600/jupiterascending2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>The production design throughout is simply mesmerizing and is</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>matched by few films.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Jupiter
Ascending is currently an easy target, from the writer and director
Wachowski duo who have not had a critical and financial hit since the
Matrix films, Jupiter Ascending is a film that has been released with
little to no hype behind it. It is also certain to be a costly movie
for those who financed it given its sizeable budget and its low box
office takings thus far. However none of that should have any weight
in whether one does or does not enjoy the film.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
most problematic portions of Jupiter Ascending are present from the
introduction as we are introduced to the protagonists parents as they
meet and the tragic events that eventually lead to the protagonists
journey. The problem is these scenes are highly unnecessary and add
little to a film that is crowded with a plethora of ideas and could
have easily been cut with no negative effect on the film as a whole.
Their is likewise an early scene between the 'villains' which screams
of a scene that was added after the fact as the studio/film makers
became worried that some may struggle with the amount of information
presented throughout. Whilst it does make it clear what is happening,
it also removes much of the mystery and spoils the bigger reveals
turning what could and should have been a shocking reveals later in
the film into something that fills more like filler, existing solely
to catch the protagonist Jupiter Jones up with what the audience was
sadly already spoon feed at the beginning of the film.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkeMm6Zo4EqWGe4xU10l4ihGp9Qk8LUdnoVY1-VsfDi6SQcsJ8jRvh9vB-IsXx4UO1TXinuyM9-An17KJc1rcea9E96jSYZv0-kmOYOuGtcSrvYaV2rkJKj_GC6IVGcWh9wBlg0G25NsC/s1600/jupiterascending3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkeMm6Zo4EqWGe4xU10l4ihGp9Qk8LUdnoVY1-VsfDi6SQcsJ8jRvh9vB-IsXx4UO1TXinuyM9-An17KJc1rcea9E96jSYZv0-kmOYOuGtcSrvYaV2rkJKj_GC6IVGcWh9wBlg0G25NsC/s1600/jupiterascending3.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>The gravity boots add an interesting and unique flair </i><i>to the </i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>action throughout.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Jupiter
Jones largely as a result is a character that I cared very little
for, which is quite an issue given that she is the protagonist and as
such the film is largely her journey. It doesn't help that she is
largely a blank slate, defined by little else then cleaning toilets
and her desire to purchase a telescope, hinting at a connection to
her father who was also fascinated by the beauty of space. Had this
point been given further development it could have tied in nicely
with the idea of reincarnation present, it however is left as a loose
end that is 'merely' one of but a few character traits for Jupiter.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
That
isn't to say that the entire cast is left with little to work with.
Quite the contrary, the supporting cast and the 'world' that is
created is far more interesting. Eddie Redmayne as Balem Abrasax is
particularly enjoyable to watch who whilst veering into hammy
territory is suitably and interestingly conflicted and unstable in a
manner that ties in nicely with his 'relationship' to Jupiter. Other
characters are far more standard but none the less are acted well and
help propel the film and the world it is set in forward in an
entertaining fashion. Which leads me to the films greatest strength.
The realization of its world building and the visuals that are so
vital in that realization.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKBFSgr7dKLzUVlDDa5QdUuwISu6ZaxxvuhwUxnhourgJH9z8hriHkb67Nt_MAZBuBnC5MNdh8aEEHQ3A-ar0JV84lwe3SOFtkPSlMI2Wpnm4Mp9n_Td0f0TM4nlE_tQJgjMIuiv5p8SD/s1600/jupiterascending6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKBFSgr7dKLzUVlDDa5QdUuwISu6ZaxxvuhwUxnhourgJH9z8hriHkb67Nt_MAZBuBnC5MNdh8aEEHQ3A-ar0JV84lwe3SOFtkPSlMI2Wpnm4Mp9n_Td0f0TM4nlE_tQJgjMIuiv5p8SD/s1600/jupiterascending6.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Did I mention that the production design throughout is</i><br />
<i>simply mesmerizing.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I imagine few will doubt the visual flair that the Wachowskis bring to
the films they direct, fewer yet will likely be disappointed by the
lush and detailed visuals that exists not only to impress the viewer
but to effectively further the story of the world. To say I was
impressed would be quite the understatement with the production
design being simply unmatched by any recent film. The 3d is likewise
rather strong throughout and certainly helps highlight this aspect of
the film whilst also adding notably throughout, especially to the
numerous aerial battles present. The action to put simply is
impressive and whilst it is far more standard in how it is shoot
given what one may expect given the Wachowskis track record, it is
still far more creative and exciting then all but a few films of
recent. I imagine those who have complained about the extended
finales of some recent blockbusters may take issue with the length of
some of the action present, I however never felt it extended beyond
its welcome.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Jupiter
Ascending is not without its notable flaws, it however remains a
visually impressive thrill ride throughout most of its runtime and
thus comes highly recommended in spite of a handful of elements that
disappoint.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-73016360833691881352015-02-08T23:47:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.450-08:00My Favourite Films of 2014Whilst most list for ones best and/or favourite films where release a good few weeks ago I have only finally managed to key together what my own personal favourite films released in 2014 where. At this point I should point out this list is for my favourite films, which in no way equal to best. Part of the reason for this is I find the notion of list of the ‘best’ films to be spurious effort at best. In other words this is a list that is completely down to my subjective opinion. The list is also based on the local release date for the films. Meaning some of these films where released elsewhere in earlier years. Birdman may or may not be among the better films released recently but as they are 2015 releases where I live they are not included. One last note is that the list is simply presented in alphabetical order and not in order of preference.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Ain't Them Bodies Saints:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLZkWSzu1x7dg9ZFNpUsCwE-FUBUYvWEoJ7FNFJbrDsNdkq43FTDQeXnOhVVlyvEOHYdKbnn-ZRS0RMkZKURyw9Z2sMUt4xbPKuulFsyXIs8THq7Xj4ma8AeJIF0jUHBOz6c-Hun4Z2Uy/s1600/aintthembodiessaints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLZkWSzu1x7dg9ZFNpUsCwE-FUBUYvWEoJ7FNFJbrDsNdkq43FTDQeXnOhVVlyvEOHYdKbnn-ZRS0RMkZKURyw9Z2sMUt4xbPKuulFsyXIs8THq7Xj4ma8AeJIF0jUHBOz6c-Hun4Z2Uy/s1600/aintthembodiessaints.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Ain't Them Bodies Saints in many ways is a very simple film. It is none the less a powerful film that largely removes itself from any obvious time period and is about two individuals who are in love and forced to live separately due to their own egregious mistakes. Fantastic performances throughout along with what would easily be my favorite score of the year (which utilizes clapping throughout as part of the music and is oddly fitting) in an emotionally draining film that I adored.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>The Double:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUxSXkEpxbgTV_7ovMbIRGQJMysHYwKS2Lr5TMu6ybkkRmjSiUbHNImzx805zBGnuhIzsclx2qd5aJ2KhlWJcteKq00ehepxskIrnCqJynEFPB11WfUZMgr_JMpy8r3yGOwl3kmmt0nKo/s1600/thedouble3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUxSXkEpxbgTV_7ovMbIRGQJMysHYwKS2Lr5TMu6ybkkRmjSiUbHNImzx805zBGnuhIzsclx2qd5aJ2KhlWJcteKq00ehepxskIrnCqJynEFPB11WfUZMgr_JMpy8r3yGOwl3kmmt0nKo/s1600/thedouble3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The Double is the film on this list that I imagine is most likely to divide audiences. Self conscious but still dramatically effective I found myself chuckling throughout. Combine that with some gorgeous cinematography and a timeless and particularly odd world and you have a film that whilst no revelation was a breathe of fresh air that is as bizarre as it is enjoyable.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Edge of Tomorrow:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvumGBg5ScozmLzXO-enKg27lSMgt5fP4X5O7mHUT39QTZoJxW3omJt-JGrK58DGcg3Yt220XNCe33kUd9ZSiyOlvOfKgpKAQlIarZbJ-r-M4JaKBkfbW_NC9X29xFZHiyqUw7-4SHnnKQ/s1600/edgeoftomorrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvumGBg5ScozmLzXO-enKg27lSMgt5fP4X5O7mHUT39QTZoJxW3omJt-JGrK58DGcg3Yt220XNCe33kUd9ZSiyOlvOfKgpKAQlIarZbJ-r-M4JaKBkfbW_NC9X29xFZHiyqUw7-4SHnnKQ/s1600/edgeoftomorrow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Two years in a row a large budget Tom Cruise 'sci-fi' film have made it into my favorite films list. It would be, and certainly is easy to make fun of Tom for his off screen antic and whilst doing so may be fun for many, those antics don't negate the quality of his acting, or the films he stars in. Likewise in a year full of disappointing larger budget films Edge of Tomorrow was a sadly overlooked film that was far better then its more successful but far less enjoyable competition. Featuring stunning action, a story that whilst flawed (a continuous problem with stories involving time travel) holds your interest with enough characters fleshed out just enough to care about what is happening. Likewise whilst the live action was converted to 3d it is easily one of the better example of what the 3d format has to offer especially as it wasn't afraid of using heavier levels of depth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Her:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyj_O7uK5DBpRJNYFvz1v11xRi3rkSRPWhi67rwZYFv5-uZOJXbiw4s1Ah1Cg3qQ3zE1kTnw3Nj5zsHVDIvO08aiAjDAyYdBm557NGOU8JRyRMA3URbkiPAHXhLWWAd0ftZufohfKwa3pE/s1600/her.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyj_O7uK5DBpRJNYFvz1v11xRi3rkSRPWhi67rwZYFv5-uZOJXbiw4s1Ah1Cg3qQ3zE1kTnw3Nj5zsHVDIvO08aiAjDAyYdBm557NGOU8JRyRMA3URbkiPAHXhLWWAd0ftZufohfKwa3pE/s1600/her.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Their is very little I could hope to say about Her that hasn't been already said a great number of times before. Simply put it is about a man who falls in love with his computer, or more accurately an artificial intelligence. The surprising part is that it comes of as genuine without any sense of self awareness, yet still works. This is of course no doubt thanks to the ever brilliant Spike Jonze who both wrote and directed the film (and made a personal favorite of mine Adaptation) along with some simply brilliant action and cinematography, which also applies to the film directly below which shares the same cinematographer (and was also the cinematographer on another favorite of mine, Let the Right One In).<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Interstellar:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jiQRVQ7JrRxaWap5R6OhteaU_rQ5l13fdWfbdOv3yYcdnIpUoUpjCEP5ZikLsCrOQwenCwCdRtyre4JxFJkZ4J643VaVfQ3ixuLo8L4dg1T0vYSt2lZtFjK-EshEvkDZsy5xgaS-KTU9/s1600/interstellar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jiQRVQ7JrRxaWap5R6OhteaU_rQ5l13fdWfbdOv3yYcdnIpUoUpjCEP5ZikLsCrOQwenCwCdRtyre4JxFJkZ4J643VaVfQ3ixuLo8L4dg1T0vYSt2lZtFjK-EshEvkDZsy5xgaS-KTU9/s1600/interstellar1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Interstellar disappointed many their is no denying. It arrived with beyond high levels of hype thanks to director Christopher Nolan helming the film along with some utterly fantastic trailers. I myself found that it lived up to the hype and found it refreshing for a large budget film to feature so little action whilst remaining captivating and is another in director Christopher Nolans long run of hit films.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The Wolf of Wall Street:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUEz3l-BpUp_2u8FtDEUxVplmfWQ8YuCgASnGU6LP7FWiJ5BiNxpMcf18xguKBsbVLWfheDgf7C1UBUkrYnegte-xx7rsSiPHNMer0BKGzSe_AC5dAKz8AaSSc0wQSJdb1bdPx-lgkoWM/s1600/wolfofwallstreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUEz3l-BpUp_2u8FtDEUxVplmfWQ8YuCgASnGU6LP7FWiJ5BiNxpMcf18xguKBsbVLWfheDgf7C1UBUkrYnegte-xx7rsSiPHNMer0BKGzSe_AC5dAKz8AaSSc0wQSJdb1bdPx-lgkoWM/s1600/wolfofwallstreet.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After Hugo flopped Martin Scorsese is back making a film in what could only be described as more familiar territory for the director. That isn't necessarily as bad thing as the film was one of my favorites released last year, being both vile and brilliant throughout. I none the less would like to see the director make some less predictable film choices in the future. However when the film is this good such a complaint is nit picking at best.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-91467206219903239402015-02-03T17:48:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.475-08:00Kingsman: The Secret Service Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxK1jSyE3Or8QSjzeYiHRi9czds7-NWfBhBB4iqAYQXpL-N8mi4twjkDzp5Ui2SfY5IfLflahnh0BxCB9qnAh8wjw8Lw580pxYXzcuLQBU5cB0ZJFrArz2HEOBXaoUpr8uyag6-RkDB6G/s1600/kingsman1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxK1jSyE3Or8QSjzeYiHRi9czds7-NWfBhBB4iqAYQXpL-N8mi4twjkDzp5Ui2SfY5IfLflahnh0BxCB9qnAh8wjw8Lw580pxYXzcuLQBU5cB0ZJFrArz2HEOBXaoUpr8uyag6-RkDB6G/s1600/kingsman1.jpg" height="272" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Protagonist Egsy, clearly not a standard candidate for</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>the Kingsman.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I
must confess, ever since the film Layer Cake I have been a fan of
Kingsman: The Secret Service director Matthew Vaughan, from films
like Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class to Stardust he has always made
highly entertaining films. All of which have contained great humour,
characters and not only well staged and genuinely exciting action
scenes, but action scenes that are also frequently wildly inventive.
Kingsman: The Secret Service thankfully continues this run of
excellent films by Matthew Vaughan.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Gary
Unwin, also known as Eggsy is a young man, drifting through life
without any real goals or purpose. Soon enough one of his escapades
has his path crosses with Harry Hart, who is a member of a secret
service known as the Kingsman who are entirely 'gentlemen' in
behaviour. After some rudimentary tests Harry seeks to recruit Eggsy
into the Kingsman. Performances are strong throughout, but Sofia
Boutella as the blade legged femme fatale and Colin Firth as Harry
Hart are easily the highlights. Colin Firth in particular will
surprisingly enough likely leave many thinking how he would have been
a perfect fit for James Bond. Not only fitting the suave nature of
Bond with ease, but providing more then up for the challenge of the
action scenes present. Likewise whilst Sofia Boutella has minimal
dialogue she is able to give a presence that would otherwise be
missing from the amusing but non threatening core villain present as
portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-rm22juju5Kjh_K_pptcbp9wQLl8qooetzbkAkoiIvJE28RrALnja1Laq_d7V-3nujq5sHXy_QED6jXc94R-EqpbPaeGyfV3MkMlwC3DjraSslAPX4sR7MR7uvYWbn-NLsz-VoKmUVsw/s1600/kingsman2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-rm22juju5Kjh_K_pptcbp9wQLl8qooetzbkAkoiIvJE28RrALnja1Laq_d7V-3nujq5sHXy_QED6jXc94R-EqpbPaeGyfV3MkMlwC3DjraSslAPX4sR7MR7uvYWbn-NLsz-VoKmUVsw/s1600/kingsman2.jpg" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Sofia Boutella as the femme fatale and Colin Firth is a suave</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>secret agent are particular highlights.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
On
that note the humour and action as expected from a Matthew Vaughan
film is handled with a flare and whimsy that films with budgets
several times larger can't even begin to hope to match. Meanwhile the
action is also brutally violent, which is a breathe of fresh air
given the large number of the big budget action films having somewhat
tepid action due to the restriction a lower rating puts on them.
Their is a scene in a church that starts of with one of most
ludicrously brilliant lines in quite some time that evolves into what
is simply jaw dropping carnage that is stunningly shoot and edited
together. For action junkies it is one of the few scenes I have ever
seen that truly leaves up to the notion of being worth the price of
admission alone. Likewise the finale is suitably spectacular and
inventive without out wearing it welcome and dragging on far to long
as has become customary for many action films in recent years.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
At
its core of Kingsman: The Secret Service is an unashamed homage to
the older James Bond films where English secret agents used numerous
gadgets and the agents being those women want to be with and men want
to be. However unlike James Bond Kingsman: The Secret Service
features far more humour and has far more brutal and bloody action
which helps sets it apart on its own and given the more recent Bonds
more serious tone leaves Kingsman felling far more fresh then it
probably should. Kingsman: The Secret service comes recommended.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Note:
As is far to common I must recommend people stay away from the full
trailers for this film as they give far to much away as sadly it seems
that those creating trailers still feel the way to sell a film is to
simply have a two to three minute summary of many of the key points
of a film. I strongly disagree.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-1566330125300395032015-02-01T23:07:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.357-08:00Collection Update (February 2015)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxIBQSyY4p2pwIJspA8cr93WB5iPwPsfHjvWSJIJyr2yljFJwhir2cmA7BJJoDT6NMu69umbkViOphj1wjNROe965f33slBayp7XaKo09O_O24YtT6QPCJyQIzfdrmovMjCA99Gw_cruo/s1600/2feb2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxIBQSyY4p2pwIJspA8cr93WB5iPwPsfHjvWSJIJyr2yljFJwhir2cmA7BJJoDT6NMu69umbkViOphj1wjNROe965f33slBayp7XaKo09O_O24YtT6QPCJyQIzfdrmovMjCA99Gw_cruo/s1600/2feb2015.jpg" height="278" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Double whilst a terrific film is also a blu-ray release that has cause me numerous issues. Having replaced the first copy I have yet to check if this disc works (though I really must ensure it works properly soon). The first disc I had continuously had audio pops and some scenes simply refused to play. I hope this isn't a wide spread issue with the Australian release, which sadly wouldn't be unheard of for a smaller film released here. Thankfully both Awakening and Frances Ha have very nice transfers with no issues to speak of from a technical stand point.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whilst I don't wish to concentrate on negative aspects of the release I have purchased I fell obligated to mention Transcendence. Regardless of what you think of the film, to say Transcendence was seen in cinemas was quite a beautiful film would be a dramatic understatement. Which given the director is not at all surprising. Sadly the blu-ray release is plagued with unforgivable amounts of dnr, edge enhancement and black crush that was not present in the theatrical release. Whilst it is likely you have already bought Transcendence if you are a fan, if you have not, do not expect to not be thrilled by what you see regarding the transfer and ensure you get it on a nice, big sale. It is sad to see such a gorgeous film, that was released so recently with a large budget get such poor treatment.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2oyYQcFZ4IkvoeL-q-SVa2Hecz4IbDVaMCMIEKiGMyOhVxq2mzWso-m7maz6GlPMjm4I5rEl_l-99A3ZTPfnFRUTbpsGD_p7w-WoiJSYl7GrJuyF8uHPsevsMTZNEusQ5cPXdWn_zHem-/s1600/1feb2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2oyYQcFZ4IkvoeL-q-SVa2Hecz4IbDVaMCMIEKiGMyOhVxq2mzWso-m7maz6GlPMjm4I5rEl_l-99A3ZTPfnFRUTbpsGD_p7w-WoiJSYl7GrJuyF8uHPsevsMTZNEusQ5cPXdWn_zHem-/s1600/1feb2015.jpg" height="272" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
On a more positive note The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy has an extremely competent transfer for what I believe was a very early release for the blu-ray format. It was also available for a ludicrously low price and whilst I don't enjoy it as much as the books or radio show it is based on, it is still an enjoyable film that whilst it falters in some aspects, mostly retains the tone and humour of its source material (though some of the changes still feel entirely unnecessary).<br />
<br />
Likewise Thirst is a film that all horror fans should check out. I myself picked up the South Korean release as it contains the directors cut and doesn't have the overly bright and saturated colours that unfortunately plague the other releases that I have looked into. It was more costly then I would have liked but for fans of the film this does seem to be the release to purchase and it is a gorgeous blu-ray.<br />
<br />
With all the above said I hope we can look forward to less problematic release in Australia as the cost of importing is becoming less feasible whilst also becoming less worthwhile. Sadly many smaller release still struggle to get a release at all, and when they do they often have problematic releases (going as far as not having features that are claimed to be present on the disc case) which leaves importing the only option, which as stated above is less attractive then it has been in a very long time. I hope we get more consistent releases of high quality, which given that currently smaller films releasing on blu-ray is seemingly not worthwhile and I must wonder how uhd (4k) will far in smaller markets. I do hope it isn't simply relegated to some blockbuster releases. Likewise, I hope that the prices and selection will be reasonable compared to that in the UK, America and similar. I however am not holding my breath.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-53976184549426441822015-01-25T23:22:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.413-08:00The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8AUGNyXN6SfPjx5L0ylevQ2zIgC4hDw8l0uIOhlBf9Pw92TntT-ZIk39zZHGk0jCywKubNMZJNmx6WyfeG3zxqV_002bK_cWnF2KsAA6Q_jpo6dtY-oktmluLvNMVImp3xM8_chzT2zbH/s1600/spiderman4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8AUGNyXN6SfPjx5L0ylevQ2zIgC4hDw8l0uIOhlBf9Pw92TntT-ZIk39zZHGk0jCywKubNMZJNmx6WyfeG3zxqV_002bK_cWnF2KsAA6Q_jpo6dtY-oktmluLvNMVImp3xM8_chzT2zbH/s1600/spiderman4.jpg" height="268" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Spider-Man is back in yet another film, but the results are</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>far from amazing.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As
one would expect The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is a sequel to the first
Amazing Spider-Man film, a film which was received with a largely
tepid response as it was generally felt to be an unnecessary addition
following the recent Raimi trilogy. None the less from the little I
know of the comics it seemed to remain more faithful to the source
material and whilst not amazing, it was a reasonably enjoyable film.
The two leads as Peter Parker/Spider-Man and Gwen Stacy being
particular highlights.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
With
the above in mind I whilst I was reasonably excited for how the
sequel could expand on the first film. The first issue that becomes
immediately clear and only becomes more irritating as the film
continues is the absolutely horrid writing present. Little that
happens makes any sense. The most obvious example of this is how
characters are able to understand the entirety of a character back
story from a few seconds of video footage to how the villain Electro
comes to be (he is electrocuted, falls into a tank and gets bitten by
electric eals and that's the extent to which it is shown/explained).</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8mLQOhZA5QRaIG1dWZGryQZmNKcZiAbFJGC5hadVOs1LkFQQtHtaUjQlW3zERqOJlUwTzzQT4xfl6C9YLXbwJgkEtapdzN48z7v_LurAlJ04BN_OR_Sw9R3yWiPk4wdh5YIVyvo5sluN9/s1600/spiderman3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8mLQOhZA5QRaIG1dWZGryQZmNKcZiAbFJGC5hadVOs1LkFQQtHtaUjQlW3zERqOJlUwTzzQT4xfl6C9YLXbwJgkEtapdzN48z7v_LurAlJ04BN_OR_Sw9R3yWiPk4wdh5YIVyvo5sluN9/s1600/spiderman3.jpg" height="268" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Packed with far to many subplots and far to concerned with setting up future</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>films TASM2 comes across as rushed.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
This admittedly in of itself may have worked if the film didn't also
fell the need to stuff a sub plot in explaining how Peter was able to
survive and become Spider-Man from being bitten by a spider in the
prior film. Speaking of sub plots, the film has far to any of them
and is also far to concerned with setting up future films (be they
direct sequels or spin offs). This results in an overcrowded series
of sub plots which leave far to little time to expand on the content
of the individual sub plots. The result is the compression of
information from what should have been spread across several
different scenes (and written far better) into singular scenes,
leaving the characters felling like they are going through a check
list of information with one another which as one may expect comes
across as incredibly unnatural and also leaves the film felling
incredibly rushed in spite of its reasonably long run time.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
absurdity of how Electro comes to be is only matched by the poor
characterisation present for both himself and the rest of the cast.
Characters are typically one note card board cut outs with the depth
of a paddling pool. The once engaging relationship between Peter and
Gwen is throughout nothing but a can they or can't they be together
type story. An idea that the first film had already covered and had
also done a far better job establishing and resolving in a far
shorter period of time. That's not to say Andrew Garfield and Emma
Stone give poor performances, rather they do a stunningly good job
given the material they have to work with as does Jamie Fox. The
problem is the material is simply so horrid that it borders on parody
and no matter the performance the film is rarely engaging and is
frequently a mundane bore to embarrassing to veiw.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYiQiIyoqF7kIWfn5ZzZnm4i4eJ6NrNcNFpSjA6LBKvCcn2Lpvs1HEH_l7ykk6yF4KgmnvXP59XVoEPhV0ugisytMD60yaSZf10E7953PJZyQwdk5kKooz-AuY1qBb9mXbXds9IwgntkB/s1600/spiderman1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYiQiIyoqF7kIWfn5ZzZnm4i4eJ6NrNcNFpSjA6LBKvCcn2Lpvs1HEH_l7ykk6yF4KgmnvXP59XVoEPhV0ugisytMD60yaSZf10E7953PJZyQwdk5kKooz-AuY1qBb9mXbXds9IwgntkB/s1600/spiderman1.jpg" height="268" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Whilst the effects and action are frequently spectacular they can't hide how poorly</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>written the film is and how little the actors have to work with.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
exception to this is the action. When Spider-Man is swinging through
New York, battling villains or similar the film changes gears and
becomes an exciting and frenetic thrill ride. One particular
highlight is the show down between Spider-Man and Electro in Times
Square which features some excellent action accompanied by some
brilliantly unique music that alone does a far better job portraying
Electro as a lonely, paranoid and angry individual then the entirety
of the rest of the film. The effects likewise are particularly
impressive with Electro looking as if there is a storm inside of him
(such a shame that this obvious statement of his mental state doesn't
lead anywhere as the character is so shallow), to Spider-Man never
having looked so good as he swings throughout New York. This is
helped by some fantastic use of 3d in the action scenes, though it
fells more tacked on in the dialogue scenes. None the less those who
wish to see the film would be best viewing it in 3d if at all
possible as whilst it isn't always of notable benefit, when it is the
3d is genuinely spectacular.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
Amazing Spider-Man 2 is a film that is far to concerned with setting
up future films and in doing so rushes over its own story. This
combined with some horrid writing has The Amazing Spider-Man 2 come
not recommended in spite of outstanding and exciting moments of
action.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-5710812749843990592015-01-18T17:10:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.425-08:00Submarine Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1X1ADmCuhVHy9tTVWCcZ4MW45lul7JHDNP2br8YuGv_lonww9n69gBGJpwcn7OMLAMlGySi7akv12K3zug6OKnDGOOtDutdGtg5p13Bgj0_2kgnTHPwaSS-rPF7Hq0DezLBxpOnoJgEf/s1600/1submarine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1X1ADmCuhVHy9tTVWCcZ4MW45lul7JHDNP2br8YuGv_lonww9n69gBGJpwcn7OMLAMlGySi7akv12K3zug6OKnDGOOtDutdGtg5p13Bgj0_2kgnTHPwaSS-rPF7Hq0DezLBxpOnoJgEf/s1600/1submarine.jpg" height="346" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Craig Roberts as Oliver Tate and Yasmin Paige as Jordana give both strong and</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>more importantly believable performances in the lead roles.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
From first time
director Richard Ayoade comes
Submarine, a film about Oliver Tate. Oliver is a teenager who has
taken an interest in a young girl he goes to school with called
Jordana. His family life is already rather poorly with his parents
seeming to be growing apart, matters become exponentially worse when
his mothers old boyfriend moves in next door. Jordana soon enough
takes and interest in Oliver who seeks to resolves any issues he has
with his new girlfriend and problematic family situation in shall we
say odd ways.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Oliver
is far from the typical teenager and shows many trappings of someone
who whilst intellectually mature or longing to be, is in many ways an
immature character unable to understand the basic elements of the
society he belongs in. This results in the rather unusual plans he
has to 'fix' his life. His attempts of course at best resemble a band
aid and do nothing to resolve the core problems, which when he is
faced with he responds with avoidance. Put simply Oliver is a
character who wants to fit in and belong, he however by his own
thoughts and behaviour simply does not. Submarine also delves into
Oliver fathers depression possibly along with his own and provides
for what in many ways is a very conventional coming of age story told
in an unconventional way as it fells far more based in reality then
most films manage with characters also struggling with far more
relatable problems (be them real or simply perceived) then what most
similar films present.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
acting throughout Submarine is exceptional, from Craig Roberts as
Oliver to the now oscar nominated Sally Hawkins as his mother the
cast on all fronts deliver believable and at times nuanced
performances. Likewise the music is superb if not unexpected often
suddenly interrupting what is happening suddenly and loudly
reflecting the degree of importance Oliver puts on things which are
comparatively trivial to what else is happening in his life.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTEEemOr0oAfchUa9c3OGl9ZL1X81M5cTUUwZrvOSmy_lZvcXl7oqBXTUdOsv8XeinTGJ9nSARX9SjUeBIf8qTc66URzlf3FoqIbiQf5ks-EDsF9ToPMM7uPa6u28BfWs4Rg6nTtXeldSy/s1600/2submarine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTEEemOr0oAfchUa9c3OGl9ZL1X81M5cTUUwZrvOSmy_lZvcXl7oqBXTUdOsv8XeinTGJ9nSARX9SjUeBIf8qTc66URzlf3FoqIbiQf5ks-EDsF9ToPMM7uPa6u28BfWs4Rg6nTtXeldSy/s1600/2submarine.jpg" height="346" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Like The Double, Submarine features some gorgeous photography.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
When
comparing Submarine with the directors next film The Double he
already seems to have a distinct style, common story elements and
cast. Both films feature a protagonist longing to fit in, have
someone in particular with whom they are romantically interested,
both protagonists are misfits, both films feature a number of the
some actors and actresses and the films take place in a time period
that is indistinct. With that said the films in the execution are
notably different. Most notably regarding the humour, whereas the
double featured a dark dry sense of humour with a self concious tone,
submarine provides far fewer amusing moments that are often awkward
in how they are amusing, which is fitting giving the characters and
story present. Likewise whilst Submarine is certainly well shoot, it
doesn't ooze the style of The Double and instead presents a
relatively indistinct time in a very real world English setting.
Whilst I wouldn't usually compare to films as in depth as this the
films whilst clearly different are distinctly similar and I fell
those who enjoy one will very likely enjoy the other.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Whilst
I can't help but be somewhat let down viewing Submarine after The
Double, most of my reasons for preferring one over come down to
entirely subjective taste and what I tend to favour in films.
Submarine thankfully stands on its own as a well shoot, terrifically
acted film that is often awkwardly amusing that tells a conventional story in an unconventional manner and comes highly recommended.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-87601074321252507222015-01-11T19:42:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.464-08:00The Double (2013) Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzgbCns7eiPEexqFiJTRWCUPtd80Sp2apE8zCQ2Yb_5JJW_3yMMwN5-NCTMhjZkp-StmpPcJVbeVMxmPoZVP3vJ3uIE2F_8s9Rz1WhhTlrUy8rJBeQZ6QpeEglUQ-AH1OwUSexaa4BwOI/s1600/thedouble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzgbCns7eiPEexqFiJTRWCUPtd80Sp2apE8zCQ2Yb_5JJW_3yMMwN5-NCTMhjZkp-StmpPcJVbeVMxmPoZVP3vJ3uIE2F_8s9Rz1WhhTlrUy8rJBeQZ6QpeEglUQ-AH1OwUSexaa4BwOI/s1600/thedouble.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><i>Jesse Eisenberg as both Simon and James gives two brilliant performances.</i></span></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The
world The Double is set that of an inexact locale with a bizarre yet
timeless fell. The technology present throughout resembles some form
of aberration of seventies technology whose functionality seems
unwieldy at best as if the world is being constricted by the rules
that govern and unable to grow. This is combined with numerous accents on display,
which combined with some delightful and purposeful drab
cinematography creates a world that is immediately recognizable when
one simply looks at one part, but as a whole is otherworldly.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In
this world a young timed man called Simon lives. Simon is a young,
timid man who lives his life in loneliness, but desperately seeks to
connect with others. He works long hours as a clerk in a government
agency where he along with his own work does others with no thanks.
Only leaving when only those left cleaning where he works remain.
From every angle Simon is thoroughly ignored and beaten down by the
society he lives and is regarded as being completely forgettable by
those who do recognize him. Simon in particular yearns to connect
with a young woman called Hannah that he creates reasons to see
whilst at work and also watches from his apartment with a telescope.
Just as it seems as if he may have made some progress a man called
James enters his life.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTm_IfNySK6cE_UAsMZCbIj-eN2kEXgjl40W09cm7axtzbM3bwqY_9HlLctaFDgq50i1xyXYjmvGb51BQwWFkyIFHA5MDXOrcLtSwAxbBfKY5dEhtrn5waMYuGDUeiezYcD-b8BpCkP5Y/s1600/thedouble2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTm_IfNySK6cE_UAsMZCbIj-eN2kEXgjl40W09cm7axtzbM3bwqY_9HlLctaFDgq50i1xyXYjmvGb51BQwWFkyIFHA5MDXOrcLtSwAxbBfKY5dEhtrn5waMYuGDUeiezYcD-b8BpCkP5Y/s1600/thedouble2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The cinematography is gorgeous and helps create a film with</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>a very otherworldly feel.</i></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
James
is physically an exact double of Simon, however Simon acts and is
viewed by the world is the reverse of James. Brimming with confidence
Simon is quick to get to know Simon, and quickly uses Simon to
quickly rise in the ranks. In many ways Simon has numerous traits
that one would associate with a sociopath and is happy to use anyone
if it is of benefit to himself, which leads to Simon's world crashing
lower from its already largely intolerable state.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In
spite of this The Double whilst never promoting uncontrollable
laughter is frequently amusing and never enters the territory of
being depressing thanks to the largely self concious tone present
throughout. Jesse Eisenberg as Simon and James along with ever
reliable Mia Wasikowska as Hannah excel in their roles and in spite
of the odd world presented or the self concious tone provide for some
genuine heart that could very easily have been missing. Likewise the
sound design and the music composed by Andrew Hewitt perfectly
reinforce what is happening in a way that has the film swing
seamlessly from quirky to a film with dramatic weight behind it. Andrew Hewitt's score is
particularly memorable and helps in reinforcing the odd tone already present throughout, along with highlighting key moments with a unique and score that manages to come ever so close to being over bearing whilst never becoming so.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Despite
of the praise above The Double is a film that from the first frame to
the last is a film that is clearly going to divide audiences. In
spite of this The Double is more then endearing enough to come with
my highest recommendation and I can't wait to see what the director
(Richard Ayoade) does in the future.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-10783603077018559392015-01-04T12:54:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.342-08:00The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgRwOW15FULMF_YBUEp6ED8r_6eeDftqAuaNqwwJAEtzbZvTzKKePoUtbfs6MBqo6DRKAb5TIiiOQPEbWNcOfALKj8xlJFw0lgU_mg6FH7qWj4hyphenhyphenxOH5LDHyijoG_mtz9fEMoxRX0kjbx/s1600/hobbitbattleoffivearmies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgRwOW15FULMF_YBUEp6ED8r_6eeDftqAuaNqwwJAEtzbZvTzKKePoUtbfs6MBqo6DRKAb5TIiiOQPEbWNcOfALKj8xlJFw0lgU_mg6FH7qWj4hyphenhyphenxOH5LDHyijoG_mtz9fEMoxRX0kjbx/s1600/hobbitbattleoffivearmies.jpg" height="264" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Azog, one of the many examples of how this series was padded out</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>to mixed results.</i></div>
<br />
In many ways The
Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is a hard film to review. Fans of
middle earth are going to swarm to the film regardless of what any
review contains, and for good reason. The original trilogy easily
contains some of the best, if not the very best fantasy films made.
The Hobbit trilogy in comparison has widely thus far been considered
good albeit disappointing.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The Battle of Five
armies starts of where The Desolation of Smaug ends, a film that
sadly and amusingly didn't contain the actual desolation of Smaug.
Instead it was used as bait to entice viewers to see this presumably
final film of Peter Jackson middle earth saga. As a result The Battle
of Five armies has an expectedly exciting opening. Although those who
where less then impressed by the more cartoon like action of The
Hobbit will continue to be unimpressed. Characters from the outset
continue to do impossible things, At times this is fine as it is well
established in the films that Elves are capable of what are
seemingly impossible feats for a human. However this film as the
prior two Hobbit films extends this to both the human characters and
dwarves. This once again robs the film of their being any sense of
risk for the characters present, which undermines the entire epic
finale and battle between five armies.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPeg1kEX_1vHCSqq2EDXWOkShyJO_82GTsa8RTGI_pAaG3MuNI5H6QAZwXxsqy4o38OWYx-49Wo3wGLVZY0mzxB8k0OFDKTfKVzsK_ntkMYnfyQyE66ZZ68jDMibYht1NPz-EU1IHeffi/s1600/thehobbit33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPeg1kEX_1vHCSqq2EDXWOkShyJO_82GTsa8RTGI_pAaG3MuNI5H6QAZwXxsqy4o38OWYx-49Wo3wGLVZY0mzxB8k0OFDKTfKVzsK_ntkMYnfyQyE66ZZ68jDMibYht1NPz-EU1IHeffi/s1600/thehobbit33.jpg" height="264" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The action remains over the top, but far less so then what was</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>present in the previous two films.</i></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
That isn't to say the
film as a finale isn't satisfyingly epic. It just is a film that seem
to undercut its intentions for little reason beyond Peter Jackson an
co thinking a certain moment may look 'cool', much like Michael Bay
seemingly has done with the Transformer films. However compared to
the previous instalments such silliness is kept to a relative minimum
and thus allows some room for emotional weight. However with a few
exceptions such as Bilbo, Gandalf and Thranduil who all have
exceptional acting behind them, their is little reasons to care about
what happens. This is particularly problematic when it comes to the
dwarves of which less then half contain anything resembling a
character beyond a caricature. Giving that the entire trilogy is
about the Dwarves reclaiming their home this is a particular
problem that undermines the purpose of the entire trilogy.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
With that being said the
performances of those that you do care about that the finale does
provide for just enough context to provide some emotional punch and to bring this middle earth saga to a satisfying if not disappointing conclusion. The
film is also the shortest of the trilogy and whilst a few areas are
left with little resolution this decreased run time is largely
welcome and removes the bloat that plagued the first two Hobbit films
where it was abundantly obvious that their simply wasn't enough
content to sustain an entire trilogy.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Whilst it is far from a
masterpiece The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is a film that is certainly easy to recommend to fans of the Hobbit films. It also has reduced the issues present in the previous two films to a large enough degree to come recommended thanks largely to it slightly less absurd action and its
tighter pacing without the bloat that plagued the first two entries
of this trilogy.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSSopZuZUv-q2tvf2UwSNu8zf1V_sxEfebMUbS-HJSElhm6nBGk7FYqTjxPyTAtCZOMZfbTf2lbK2k0V0ef1UZXdupEudaLGYToP4wtyHvVxn7JLxNOylpUIqTKiRIx2zsNa3azmcO0H1/s1600/hobbit32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSSopZuZUv-q2tvf2UwSNu8zf1V_sxEfebMUbS-HJSElhm6nBGk7FYqTjxPyTAtCZOMZfbTf2lbK2k0V0ef1UZXdupEudaLGYToP4wtyHvVxn7JLxNOylpUIqTKiRIx2zsNa3azmcO0H1/s1600/hobbit32.jpg" height="262" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Whilst it isn't the defining chapter as marketing would have you believe </i><i>it</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>is certainly the most enjoyable of the Hobbit films.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
What about he HFR? Well
I may be somewhat cheating here as this is largely a direct copy of
what I wrote last year regarding the HFR in The Desolation of Smaug. It however remains as relevant for this film as it was the last. The
short story is I would highly recommend viewing it in HFR, for more
detail please read the below.</div>
<br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Whilst more a comment
on the technical side I fell compelled to mention the films use of
HFR. This is especially the case as The Battle of Five Armies, The
Desolation of Smaug and An Unexpected Journey are the only films with
a wide release to be shoot and be viewable in such a way. HFR simply
stands for high frame rate and as was the case with the prior two
films The Battle of Five Armies has been filmed in HFR at 48fps as
opposed to the usual 24fps (meaning the number of images a displayed
every second is doubled when compared to more or less every other
film that has ever been release [there are some exceptions of course,
most notably with older silent films before 24fps became the used
‘standard’]). I simply cannot say enough good things about the
use of HFR, it provides for a very surreal presentation with
everything appearing extremely smooth and lifelike. Likewise the use
of 3d especially when combined with the films use of HFR is equally
impressive and well worth the extra cost of admission for those
interested in seeing this film. The only down side to HFR is it can
make the at times less then stellar production values extremely
evident. This is of particular note as the entire Hobbit trillogy is
extremely inconsistent with it use of cgi. Most scene do look
spectacular but on occasion the use of cgi is overly evident and
looks more like what one may expect from a film released well over a
decade ago.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-20145290034578770272014-12-28T22:45:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.365-08:00Conan the Barbarian (2011) Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Qvz4oQHNyz0mp-OVw6Kg3gCBCOyFFKqbhChgL6YABlz1eWxJm46V7P4ciHENbpay5O8oKvwjEt0416kom-37sSP_5PiMRhKEOWrCBYGBSNJZgl1SjgSDQ0LiDz8B6diyGDpBRqnHCMO/s1600/conan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Qvz4oQHNyz0mp-OVw6Kg3gCBCOyFFKqbhChgL6YABlz1eWxJm46V7P4ciHENbpay5O8oKvwjEt0416kom-37sSP_5PiMRhKEOWrCBYGBSNJZgl1SjgSDQ0LiDz8B6diyGDpBRqnHCMO/s1600/conan.jpg" height="166" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Conan the Barbarian is
yet another movie based on the Conan character who was created by
writer Robert E. Howard. We have thus far seen stories featuring
Conan in a plethora of media formats such as films, games, comics, tv
shows and no doubt several others. I none the less have never really
been all that excited about the character or the stories he has
appeared in. However the prospect of a blood soaked sandle epic does
appeal to my taste in films (especially with the current lack of such
films) and sadly whilst Conan the Barbarian does provide for that, it
has several shortcomings.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Conan the Barbarian
starts of with a gloriously ridiculous scene of Conan's birth. Who is
born in the middle of a blood soaked battle as his father cuts him
from his dying mother and then holds Conan up in the air as he
screams (presumably both in pain and joy). After some overly obvious
exposition we are then introduced to a still young albeit no longer
infant Conan and his combat abilities and mastery are quickly shown
and the plot soon after kicks in (which of course required the
previously mentioned ham fisted exposition to even make any lick of
sense). Khalar Zym (played by the terrific Stephen Lang) seeks to
bring back his dead sorceress wife back to life with the aid of his
daughter Marique (played by Rose McGowan). Zym holds the belief in
doing so he would become a God and the ruler of all. Simply put Zym
is on a conquest for power and for a reason that is barely touched on
the film believes his all powerful albeit dead wife would be able to
grant him his wishes if she was brought back to life (though if she
was defeated before why couldn't she be defeated again?). That is
more or less all their is to the story and whilst the plot is solid
it is childishly simple and uninspired. None the less it remains
functional and is not one of the main issues present in the film.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The acting in Conan the
Barbarian varies from mediocre to absolutely appalling. The
previously mention Stephen Lang and Rose McGowan do their best as the
villains but the characters ultimately fell underdeveloped and the
reasons for their motives are barely touched on. As father and
daughter they also share a creepy scene that hints at an almost
incestuous relationship (or at least the possible desire for one)
which whilst creepy ultimately adds nothing to the film. Such issues
permeate throughout the entire film and 'characters' who already tend
to have little screen time and characterisation, have what little
they do often squandered on meaningless moments such as the
previously mentioned semi-incestuous one. As a result the film makers
seemed to rely on cheap visual cues such as an eye patch so as one
can remember who particular 'characters' are. The lead actor in
particular seemed content in mumbling his words with minimal
articulation which is further hindered by an uneven audio mix that
often had voices far to soft. None the less Momoa as Conan does
himself few favours and whilst he physically looks the part of a
ruthless Barbarian out for revenge, his acting ability (at least in
this film) is a far shoot from being even remotely good enough to
carry any film.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In spite of the above
issues with the performances and character a film such as this can
can still easily be enjoyed if the action is suitably well staged and
exciting (an epic fell also tends to help). Conan sadly has very
little of this. The action sequences are over edited and feature an
almost nauseating amount of camera movement combined with constant
cuts between different shoots that often do not flow from previous
shoots. I actually don't mind the shaky camera effect and also feel
the overly aggressive editing can work when used well and thus can be
an effective tool in enhancing a films action scenes. That however is
not the case here. Their are other extremely noticeable issue in
editing (although they are likely to stem from filming issues) such
as the time of day during the boat fight. The 'bad guys' sneak onto
the boat and it is clearly dusk or dawn and moments later when they
are detected it is suddenly a bright and sunny day. Such an instance
isn't to bad in of itself and by no means something that ruins a
film, but it does highlight the issues that are constantly present in
the action scenes which jump around with no sense of flow from shoot
to shoot and ultimately make this hard to garner any enjoyment.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The pacing is also
problematic in that it is practically non existent and as the movie
jumps from one action scene to another over and over again. The
result is a complete lack of any sense of danger for the lead
characters. Conan the Barbarian simply fells as if it's constantly
deflating and slowly winding down towards the inevitable finale which
to its credit does try to fell bigger and more epic then the previous
action scenes, but is none the less plagued by the same issues that
are present throughout the entire film and thus the film sadly ends
with a whimper.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It saddens me to say
that whilst Conan the Barbarian is by no means the worst film
released this year and whilst it is not without its positives, it is
none the less a film that was ultimately more often boring to watch
then it is fun. Conan the Barbarian is simply overwhelmed by numerous
issues which successfully zaps near on all the fun the film could
otherwise have had to offer. Conan the Barbarian does not come recommended.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The 3d:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Conan the Barbarian is
also available in 3d and as has far to often become the case is a
complete 2d to 3d conversion. Conan the Barbarian was not shoot in 3d
and it was not shoot for 3d and whilst a good conversion can look
amazing and add to many films (usually only when intended or wanted
by the film makers) that where never intended to be seen in 3d . In
this case it however sadly adds nothing to this film and if anything
it makes the already poorly edited action sequences even harder to
watch as the hectic editing is anything but 3d friendly. The 3d is
also minimal and takes on an every flat appearance that does nothing
to enhance the story and as previously mentioned actually hinders the
action scenes. Hence if you do decide to see this film I would urge
you to ignore the 3d option and see it in 2d.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-44661245062100769362014-12-24T20:13:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.397-08:00The Tree of Life Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13xpdpLxFV2nnRWkKgrUeTp06WR2x65eHQY2emLsV8DmA7rd1DTWFPWvpiD6MG93vM6Dhvh-ZUEAe8kEKQxwcF8oL19GEV4AqSSWeDml9BUPdhw6Lx90e1dPkH_0YaEUnZAIFAWQrbWfE/s1600/TreeofLife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13xpdpLxFV2nnRWkKgrUeTp06WR2x65eHQY2emLsV8DmA7rd1DTWFPWvpiD6MG93vM6Dhvh-ZUEAe8kEKQxwcF8oL19GEV4AqSSWeDml9BUPdhw6Lx90e1dPkH_0YaEUnZAIFAWQrbWfE/s1600/TreeofLife.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If their ever was a film
that could be the poster child for films that divide audience
opinions Terrence Malicks Tree of Life is a film that would be a
strong candidate. Inescapably and unapologetically experimental and
existential The Tree of Life is a film that many will love, but equally many will
loath, finding the contents nothing but a pretentious
tedious bore.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I would usually try and
summarize the basic story of the films setup. However in the case of
The Tree of Life that would be a disservice and mostly an impossible
task as the Tree of Life is a film that deviates from the norm in how
a films themes and story is presented. The film at its core is about the beauty of life and the world and universe we live in. Whilst the story of a family
and the individuals that make it up is certainly present, The Tree of
Life is more concerned with the larger picture of life and using the
smaller scale human narrative so as the audience can more easily
relate to the bigger picture. It not only seeks to show beauty in
what is generally accepted as beautiful, but also the beauty that
still exist in the most tragic of circumstances. It would be a
disservice to not mention the beautiful cinematography present by
Emmanuel Lubezki that helps present the core concept present to be visible throughout.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Thus The Tree of Life
is a film more concerned with evoking 'genuine' emotion from the
viewer directly as opposed to trying to elicit an emotional response
through how one relates to the individual characters present. With
all that said I wouldn't say it is a particularly deep experience. It
presents what it wishes to with no interest in exploring why the
universe is how it is or similar. It is comfortable being a
celebration of the beauty we are so fortunate to be able to
experience no matter how limited our capacity may or may not be.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
At it's heart The Tree
of Life is about the beauty of not only the world we live in, but the
universe and that of life. It is a film that I see large number
loving and large numbers loathing. None the less I found it to be a
completely enthralling and beautiful experience and The Tree of Life
comes with my highest recommendation.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
Note: I would strongly
urge people to not view this film via streaming or a dvd release.
Rather I would recommend viewing the blu-ray or seeking a showing at
a cinema similar to <a href="http://www.astortheatre.net.au/" target="_blank">The Astor Theatre</a>. For those living in Australia
I would urge those interested to consider importing the blu-ray as
the local release is objectively worse then what is available
elsewhere (the Australian release has a 5.1 audio track as opposed to
the 7.1 available elsewhere and the video contains significant
banding throughout many scenes).</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-45499439192468682952014-12-21T19:52:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.399-08:00Collection Update (December 2014 part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The final part for this two part collection update contains both the 3d and Disney blu-rays I have purchased this year.</div>
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It may come top a surprise to many that their are numerous 3d films are available from the 1950's. These are not films that have been converted into 3d in recent times, rather they where shoot in 3d. Not only that but they where also presented in 3d using polarized glasses (as most cinemas currently show theatrical 3d films). The results are stunning as the film makers don't have the fear of depth that modern 3d has suffered through in recent times (though that trend thankfully seems to be mostly over with most 3d films pushing higher levels of depth). If it is indeed a surprise that 3d films in the past where not simply the territory of anaglyph 3d (most commonly using red and blue filters in the glasses) it may also surprise many that Alfred Hitchcock directed a 3d film (Dial M for Murder).</div>
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How to Train Your Dragon is a film that I would strongly urge people pick up in 3d, even if they are not 3d compatible currently. Not only is the film an exciting funny breath of fresh air in an industry with a low number of quality recent animated titles, but it features amongst the most stunning 3d I have seen. On the other side I had seen the extended cut of Hansel and Gretel and thought I would pick up the 3d release. Whilst it isn't an entirely lost cause I don't think I will ever watch the 3d release again as the extended edition (which is only available in 2d) is by far the superior version of the film.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lastly for this two part update are the Disney release from the last year. I could write extensively about the poor practices Disney have been undertaking with their recent blu-ray releases but that would be best left for a latter time. </div>
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In what is somewhat of a sweeping statement I would recommend all of these release in 3d except for Captain America. Whilst it is true that not all of these films where originally intended for 3d, it's presence certainly enhances the films. In particular Frozen and Oz The Great and Powerful are stunning examples of intended and native 3d. Likewise Guardians of the Galaxy has stunning 3d that whilst it is a 2d to 3d conversion was made as a 3d film with the director overseeing the 3d conversion of "every shoot".</div>
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So the above (along with the prior post) finishes my home film purchases over the last year. I intend for future collection updates to be far more regular but that will of course depend on when I pick up films. Of note is that I bought zero dvd's in the last year. This is simply as their where no films released that I wanted that where only available on dvd.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-77949873675085759832014-12-18T17:55:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.455-08:00Collection Update (December 2014 part 1)How time can fly. It has been a year since my last collection update and having bought more then a small number of films this year I have decided to split this up over the next few weeks in several different posts. Due to the number of release I will only be commenting on specific releases that I fell attention should be brought to. So without further adieu part one of this rather massive collection update.<br />
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<br />
The film from the above which was easily among the larger surprises of the year was Blue is The Warmest Color. With near universal acclaim it was a film that I found to be an overly long and bloated film that had plenty of potential that I didn't fell was realized (<a href="http://filmreverie.blogspot.com.au/2014/09/la-vie-dadele-blue-is-warmest-color_9.html">click here to see my full review</a>). As a fan of Spike Jonze I was very happy to pick up Being John Malkovich which is a film that comes with my highest recommendation. Likewise Edge of Tomorrow was possibly the nicest surprise of the year. I wasn't expecting much and what I got was a tremendous sci fi action film with superb 3d.<br />
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<br />
Her is another film by Spike Jonze that I can't recommend highly enough. At times purposefully awkward, at other times bitter sweet. It is a film that on paper would likely appear to be a disaster waiting to happen. However thanks to some brilliant direction, acting and of course writing it stunningly is easily amongst the better films of recent memory. Catching Fire is another film I would highly recommend and the blu-ray alternates between it's scope ratio and 1.78:1 (full screen) for the imax scenes which is present throughout the entire time spent in the arena. Sadly the blu-ray does have some flaws, most notably is the film seems bit starved and thus some obvious and ugly banding is sadly present. Of note is this is the American release (which is region locked). The local Australian release does not alternate aspect ratios which some may prefer (especially those with CIH setups).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-WU3X7n1-QxPhPPJIQCUlLC78mavieXKGkIWvYWC2R05-VmXjee5ecTUU81v-IVIUWTZCHPlMv66THlJ4mRPkv697iZqkKsbgke9WYxjTW_te1nImbhg0uIOFN1OmeRe_9Ao4lk3AFiH/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-WU3X7n1-QxPhPPJIQCUlLC78mavieXKGkIWvYWC2R05-VmXjee5ecTUU81v-IVIUWTZCHPlMv66THlJ4mRPkv697iZqkKsbgke9WYxjTW_te1nImbhg0uIOFN1OmeRe_9Ao4lk3AFiH/s1600/3.jpg" height="313" width="400" /></a></div>
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Whilst the sequel Silent Hill revelation was a travesty (<a href="http://filmreverie.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/silent-hill-revelation-review.html">click here to see my full review</a>), the first Silent Hill is personal favourite of mine. Unfortunately the only competent blu-ray release is the French edition which I took the plunge and bought. It not only is the only release approved by the director it is the only one that doesn't have risen black levels that starves the image of any 'pop' resulting in a murky mess (the darkest black appears to be light grey). Thankfully the French release does justice to the film and its gorgeous cinematography. Likewise Super is a film by the director of Guardians of the Galaxy that few seem to have seen. It's premise is very similar to that of the first Kick-Ass film. It however doesn't drop the idea of a nobody trying to act like a super hero in favour of having 'real heroes' (such as Big Daddy and Hit Girl). This is most apparent in the final act and is a film I would recommend to those who are fans of the first Kick-Ass film.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-52963739114817704662014-12-14T12:28:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.408-08:00What If Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSrBLgVn-Runkx4Qwi7_o2k1hNrD-vQjNkP0aKtkZ3tKm4Yw-MYmakg34RwMJq8zOCdLn4Ha23VEdbC_5KmbWa_ZvHTbNIesnc35aJWLurLgLBqSKbGtrvPgf_urlB6Zy2cgKHon01I3D/s1600/What+If.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSrBLgVn-Runkx4Qwi7_o2k1hNrD-vQjNkP0aKtkZ3tKm4Yw-MYmakg34RwMJq8zOCdLn4Ha23VEdbC_5KmbWa_ZvHTbNIesnc35aJWLurLgLBqSKbGtrvPgf_urlB6Zy2cgKHon01I3D/s1600/What+If.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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In What If, Wallace a
medical drop out who one night meets Chantry a young women in a long
term relationship. Upon finding this out he is Chantry gives him her
number which he later disposes of uninterested in 'just' a
friendship. But of course as this is through and through a romantic
one night soon thereafter they both once again meet in a chance
encounter and from their the friendship blossoms and the two slowly
become more aware of one another feelings towards each other.</div>
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<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If this sound awfully
familiar, it is because the film follows the structure of a romantic
comedy to a fault. However the reason to see What If is not its structure, rather it is the two
leads Daniel Radcliffe as Wallace and Zoe Kazan as Chantry. Both
deliver strong, credible performances and share a degree of chemistry
that is rare to see in films, especially those in the romcom genre.
The comedy and wit on display is likewise surprisingly potent and
fells like it comes naturally from the characters involved instead of
simply being forced into the film in an attempt to bring life to the
film as is so often the case in films like this.</div>
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<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Unfortunately What If
does end with one or two completely unnecessary scenes which weighs
the film down and takes away from the core strength of the film. At times moving the film into eye roll inducing clear romcom territory as if
any nuance or ambiguity would be a crime. I will note that this is a
review of the US release which features several minutes of cut
footage and apparently the final scenes present here are not present in the
uk release. These differences would likely remove the largest and only real issues I had with
What If.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
At a glance What If
could easily be mistaken for an entirely unremarkable film. It
follows the structure of a romantic comedy to a fault (especially in
the final scenes). It however is able to rise above its structure
with its remarkable performances and chemistry between the two leads
along with its witty and unforced humour. Whilst I would recommend
those interested waiting for the UK release which is uncut and
apparently features a different ending, the US release of What If
still comes highly recommended.</div>
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Note: As is
unfortunately a frequent occurrence I would recommend avoiding the
trailers for this film as it spoils several key points.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-14389062369777291322014-12-12T11:50:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.354-08:00Exodus: Gods and Kings Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Note: The below review
does contain spoilers, but nothing that I fell constitutes a spoiler
giving how well known this story is.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Exodus: Gods and Kings
as one may expect follows the tales of Moses a godless Egyptian
prince who upon discovering his true parentage is exiled into the
dessert where he meets his wife. One day Moses walks up a mountain
that just so happens to be one that is forbidden by whilst trying to
capture some stray sheep he presumably shepards. It is here that he
meets 'god' who needs a general not a shepard and convinces Moses to
return from his exile and see what had become of his enslaved people.
Unsurprisingly upon returning matters are worse then before and he
decides to take action with the help of 'god'.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Exodus: Gods and Kings
is a film that I imagine many people will find offensive. It is
directed by a man who has a very low opinion on religion and has
treat the film as a simple story. In it god is shown as a largely
thoughtless half wit who whilst incredibly powerful is unable to
utilize his power in an effective manner and comes across and immoral
and evil entity. Something that Moses in this film seems to agree
with, but at no stage is it ever explained why. The characterisation
for the most part is equally troubling. With few exceptions
characters motivations seem to simply change with the changing
requirements of the plot and few are giving enough screen time to be
fully realized characters in their own right. This leads to the
'epic' scenes lacking any punch and being nothing more then a visual
treat in the same way many enjoy brainless action spectacle films.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The cause would seem to
be how rushed the film is. For example, the relationship between
Moses and his wife is nothing more then them meeting at a water hole,
exchanging no words, next Moses is meeting her father who asks
numerous questions as she watches and then suddenly they are married.
This lack of development is in part to the mostly passable but
entirely unremarkable acting on display, but also that their simply
where not enough scenes dedicated to developing important characters
beyond Moses. Their is an early scene between Moses his sister and
adoptive mother which is certainly a highlight that promises some
dramatic punch, but neither are seen again and nor is the dramatic
punch.</div>
<br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In many was Exodus:
Gods and Kings is like Kingdom of Heaven. Both are directed by Ridley
Scott that hope to have an 'epic' scope but are faltered by rushed
pacing and story telling that skims over far to many important
details. Hopefully Exodus: Gods and Kings get an extended edition
that improves the film like Kingdom of Heaven had. But in its current
state Exodus: Gods and Kings does not come recommended.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
What about the 3d?</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The 3d is simply put a
rather mixed affair. Starting of rather mild it later pushes to
rather heavy levels of depth. Whilst this heavier level of depth is
certainly a nice trend to see in an industry that seems fearful of
anything but mild 3d in years past the presentation here is also
inconsistent with the levels of depth fluctuating wildly within the
same scene and similar shoots. The result is a mostly competent 3d
presentation that will certainly satisfy fans of the format, but will
be unlikely to convert those who have yet to be convinced.</div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-83360311044516355172014-11-18T14:59:00.000-08:002017-01-26T00:55:53.459-08:00 Boogie, el aceitoso (Boogie) Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rw_Q8-Caq1-Wr9ZrYi10Si6mkEvqanau5_OkUprFk81Fo9TS-t-ApJpKrey6zTok26kxcf59y3mGdZNY8bBSzd4qA08HysE0xebzoc-00p9ITYAiZyOBoCl1S8QZQDtTEgcF5aaiU_SA/s1600/boogie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rw_Q8-Caq1-Wr9ZrYi10Si6mkEvqanau5_OkUprFk81Fo9TS-t-ApJpKrey6zTok26kxcf59y3mGdZNY8bBSzd4qA08HysE0xebzoc-00p9ITYAiZyOBoCl1S8QZQDtTEgcF5aaiU_SA/s1600/boogie.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
Boogie at a glance may appears to be a stylistic and brutally violent cartoon. The film however whilst often brutally violent has no sense of style and is an absolute abomination of a film and is an artistic failure in every way I can fathom.<br />
<br />
Boogie is a hitman who's is generally shown to only care about money, taking no joy in anything else. The question as to why he cares for money when he does nothing with it is asked early on, the question however is never addressed in the film. Likewise Boogie is driven throughout the film to prove that he is the best hitman, which contradicts the message that he fells nothing that is simultaneously being repeated ad nauseam throughout the entire proceedings. The story is likewise an inconsistent mess that is unable to present any redeemable qualities.<br />
<br />
From a stylistic perspective the film is equally artistically bankrupt and looks like an at best amateur effort by those new to animation. The action lacks any sense of excitement, the pacing is all over the place, the acting ranges from bad to incredibly dreadful and the editing is equally sub par.<br />
<br />
I find it troubling giving the essentially infinite possibilities one has when telling a story that a film like Boogie can exist. I also find it equally difficult to put together an in depth review about this film as I have nothing positive to say and only can list negative aspects about everything present in a film that is as artistically bankrupt as they can come and makes even the worse films one usually has the misfortune of stumbling across seem less horrid in comparison.<br />
<br />
Put simply Boogie is a complete disaster that makes even the most putrid hack Hollywood films seem comparatively like high art. I could easily further point out other numerous negative qualities but needless to say Boogie does not simply come not recommended, like the very worst films it comes recommended to never bother with and the rare want for it to be lost in time.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-40009773830303177632014-10-03T12:22:00.000-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.389-08:00Tron Legacy Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQi9H9XUiXIaYsfdFaeux0k7ars2gbZbzI2rvEh7idZ8ILOitLfpp0VbDYTgsUwwMLNJdOL5HT9OgDBqtj6bIWQlT-LobsExbALRLcZkbTVr1AAzbRd26PfQC1LngW2hNT1G2FjZMulYdD/s1600/tronlegacy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQi9H9XUiXIaYsfdFaeux0k7ars2gbZbzI2rvEh7idZ8ILOitLfpp0VbDYTgsUwwMLNJdOL5HT9OgDBqtj6bIWQlT-LobsExbALRLcZkbTVr1AAzbRd26PfQC1LngW2hNT1G2FjZMulYdD/s1600/tronlegacy.jpg" height="166" width="400" /></a></div>
Tron Legacy is a sequel to the 1982 film Tron, and stars two of the leads from the original (both Kevin Flynn and Alan Bradley). However the film makers seemingly understood the cult but none the less limited appeal and knowledge of the first film and thus made this follow up as accessible to new combers as it is fans of the original Tron.<br />
<br />
The star of this film is a new character Sam, the son of Kevin Flynn. The film begins as Sam is a young boy with his father suddenly disheartening and presumed dead. This leaves Sam the soul heir of the multi-billion dollar company Encom, whom twenty years later he plays a yearly stunt on Encom which is the only time he is shown to be involved with the company. Meanwhile Alan Bradely who is seemingly the only person to believe Kevin Flynn is still alive receives a page from Kevin's old arcade and tells and lets Sam investigate this for himself. Whilst their Sam finds his fathers old workstation and soon their after find himself in the grid (essentially inside a computer).<br />
<br />
Needless to say for those who have seen any trailers or similar, the film is undeniably spectacular, from its light cycle chases to its brief but exciting real world action scene and of course it’s light disc battles and many more. The score is likewise simply phenomenal and I would argue is alone worth the price of 'admission'. However the film is not just a visual and audio treat as it does contain several interesting themes that seem to have been largely ignored by its critics. This is particularly evident with the relationship between Clu and Kevin Flynn and what Clu represent with regards to Kevins character. Their are also themes regarding perfection and imperfection and what that constitutes as well as the role technology plays in our life. Whilst this themes are not going to act as an interesting foreshadowing to our own reality as is the case with the original Tron they are none the less relevant to how we live our lives.<br />
<br />
Tron Legacy is a film I would strongly recommend viewing with a quality surround sound system and in 3d (as it's video and audio minus some bass clipping is simply breath taking). Simply put Tron Legacy is a film that comes with my highest recommendation.Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-42957768970955180002014-09-22T18:16:00.002-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.392-08:00RG4MP-X3TVY-BTQWW-HGK28-DWH46<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4557405368754221933.post-53686276549081439182014-09-10T12:16:00.000-07:002017-01-26T00:55:53.411-08:00La vie d'Adèle (Blue is the Warmest Color) Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now an undeniable critic darling, Blue is the Warmest Color released to universal acclaim and seeks to tell a coming of age story whilst following Adèle a young woman over the course of several years. The film largely focuses on Adèle and is a coming of age story about longing and love and is portrayed via Adele’s relationship with Emma.</div>
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Much of the dialogue and interactions in Blue is the Warmest Color are tedious and bloated. The most notable example of this are the now infamous sex scenes (one of which last for over six minutes and fails to portray the passion the characters supposedly fell for one another that other films have done with singular shots that last but a few seconds). Likewise sub plots are introduced to be simply forgotten by the time the next scene arrives and in spite of its three hour run time, Blue is the Warmest Color on several occasions also fails to provide necessary information until after it is needed to understand exactly why what is occurring on screen is happening. Had the information that had been skipped simply been minor details, or had withholding the information been able to successfully add something to the film I would understand. But as it is presented it comes across as nothing more than an oversight by the film makers, who whilst I am certain had their reasons, these reasons are unclear and only succeeded in causing confusion instead of being able to understand the reasons behind such scene.</div>
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To make matters worse is whilst the films takes places over several years the pacing of time is often unclear and occasionally unknowable. Instead of simply prompting the viewer with a message such as “two years later” or similar, Blue is the Warmest Color simply skips forward in time with little to no hint of time passing. This isn’t necessarily an issue if the film is able to successfully convey the passing of time by other means. Blue is the Warmest Color is however not successful in doing this, or more to the point makes little effort to do this. The result is whilst Blue is the Warmest Color does take place over several years you could be forgiving (or even expected) to often not realize when the age of the characters has changed. For instance whilst at a party Adèle says she is a teacher when asked what she does. Whilst at this point we know that the she wants to be a teacher it is unclear whether she is responding honestly and is a teacher, or is simply lying, possibly embarrassed that she is several years younger than her partner Emma (and possibly still at high school). This ambiguity could of course work in the films favor if it had been addressed elsewhere or was used to make a point. It however isn't and the film as a result simply furthers the sense that the film is not only bloated but also fragmented. Likewise when Adèle and Emma first meet Emma states she has and is in a relationship that has been going on for two years, but seemingly soon after they meet they enter a relationship with one another, yet no mention of a break up or similar is made.</div>
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Whilst the films aim is clearly to show the growth of Adèle as a person over several years the actress portraying the character fails to portray a complex character that was able to hold my interest. Sure she cries (with overbearing frequency) and smiles when upset or happy, but I found little present in her portrayal that gave a real sense of character. Adèle as a result is a rather flat character that not only looks more or less the same at both the beginning and start of the film, but acts in the same way seemingly having learnt little from her life experiences. Thankfully Léa Seydoux as Emma is successfully able to portray a multi-faceted character (especially in the latter half of the film) that gives the film some emotional weight. However as she is only a supporting character this is far from enough to save what is akin to a sinking ship.</div>
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Blue is the Warmest Color has lofty aims that it is unsuccessful in reaching and instead is a bloated, overly long mess. There is the possibility for a great film among the copious bloat and rather weak performance by the lead actress. However as it is in its current form it simply unrealized potential and thus Blue is the Warmest Color does not come recommended. </div>
Gabihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01026221832466151251noreply@blogger.com0