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Star Trek: Into Darkness is a worthy sequel

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The poster shows a flaming starship falling towards Earth, with smoke coming out. At the middle of the poster shows the title "Star Trek Into Darkness" in dark grey letters, while the production credits and the release date being at the bottom of the poster.

I enjoyed the ride, that is Star Trek: Into Darkness!  It is a rollicking good time–full of humor, action and enough Trekkie geekiness to satisfy most of us fans.  But, it is by no means perfect.  And yet, you don’t seem to mind that much because you are having such a fun time visiting with the characters and the pace is so fast and vigorous, it is over before you can process most of the slight problems.  If you enjoyed J.J. Abrams‘ 2009 reboot of the Star Trek franchise, then you will love this worthy sequel.

And this is Abram’s film, for sure.  I like JJ–really, I do (Super 8 was my favorite and loved Alias) and appreciate his talent.  He is a gifted storyteller, yet he stays true to what I call–Screenwriting 101.  Predictable and simple structure, that  relies on the use of plot devices and coincidences (remember Kirk’s 2009 exile to a remote, isolated planet that just happens to be where Scotty lives?  Yeah…stuff like that.)  Not, that he can’t be effective and entertaining, it’s just an element you must learn to accept as “his” style (that and his love for blue lens flare ;) ).

The simple structure does lend itself to focus on the true theme of this installment–Kirk and Spock.  This is their bromance–continued.  STID solidifies the friendship between the Captain and his number one (mixing shows here ;) ) and shows how they find the balance they each need, with the other.  And this is where the film shines.  Chris Pine seems to be born to play James T. Kirk and there is a moment that I felt, “There it is.  That IS the quintessential Kirk.”  And Zachary Quinto is the perfect Spock, who is now embracing different aspects of his nature far more rapidly than the original Spock and I love that.

And I love this cast!  The characters and the performances that bring them to life, are the real reason to watch STID.  As a fan of the franchise (hard-core ST: TNG fan and I’ve seen ALL of the 12 films), I have a special relationship with these guys and this cast is spot on!  I wish we could spend more time with each of them.  But, hey…we have action to serve up–so everyone gets their tiny moment.  Have to give shout outs to Karl Urban‘s Bones and Simon Pegg‘s Scotty for awesome comedy relief!

Now on to the villain–John Harrison (aka the worst kept secret in Hollywood ;D).  You may know (or not)–that I am totally in love with BBC’s Sherlock series and Benedict Cumberbatch.  So, I may be a bit biased, but I love his performance.  Although he played the part quiet and restrained, he also exuded danger and malice.  What a badass!  I was not disappointed.  (Abrams choices to frame shots of him dramatically did make me chuckle ;D)  It was also nice to see Peter Weller get some screen time–they did not waste his talent.

I enjoyed all the little shout outs to previous Star Trek themes and story lines but, that also provided a few predictable situations.  All I can say is that my emotional strings were not played–and unlike its predecessor I did not find myself tearing up this time around.  STID stays true to Abrams new vision and propels the narrative forward for the crew of the Enterprise–in what I hope–would be the true departure of the established Star Trek Universe  and the beginning of stories that truly “go where no man has gone before.”  I think that would be exciting and definitely lead to new, unpredictable adventures–especially with Abrams now busy with the Star Wars franchise and a new director taking over the helm–to quote my favorite captain, “Make it so.”

Star Trek Into Darkness – International Trailer (HD) – YouTube

Iron Man 3 ROCKS!

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Yeah–I said it–IM3 ROCKS!!   Big time.  Welcome Summer of  2013…and what a start!  Marvel Studios did not disappoint and honestly, after the hugely successful and popular Avengers this could have been less than just because how could it compare to such awesomeness?  But, that is not the case, at all.  Under the direction (and co-written by) Shane Black, both Tony Stark and the series enter the realm of greatness.  It has all that is best about the Superhero universe–a troubled hero–check, a fantastic villain–check, humor/fun quota–check  and awesome badassery–double-check!

We must begin with Robert Downey, Jr. and his brilliant (continual) performance of Tony Stark.  If ever an actor and character were meant to be–it is these two.  Wonderful.  I enjoyed every second.  His perfect comedic timing and superb delivery is not wasted.  Yet, RDJ  is also allowed to really shine dramatically, too.  Realistically disturbed and haunted by the events in New York while with the Avengers, Stark is more human this time around and forced to deal with his frailty and many of his other issues.  I loved this approach and was pleased with the arch that shows real growth and potential for the character.

And as I’ve said before, a supporting cast can help elevate a film and the IM universe is a well oiled machine (sorry, couldn’t find another way to say it :D ).  Gwyneth Paltrow is perfect as Pepper Potts, again and her chemistry with RDJ is so easy and strong, that it is a pleasure to watch them.  Don Cheadle is solid, as usual and had some great moments.  Jon Favreau (director of 1 & 2–ex producer of 3) was generous to show up and proved he is a cool dude.  And I can not leave out Paul Bettany as the voice of Jarvis and all the suits–I love him!  This time around they really focus on the relationship between Stark and the suits–and how they are an extension of who he has become–and I thought exploring this aspect of the ego was a smart touch.   (Side-note: I must confess–I love the robot guys (fire extinguisher one–heart) and they have a great moment.)

Now, on to the villains–who can make or break any film–but especially a superhero film.  Well, this is the splitting point for many.  I am not a comic book reader–so, I will not be able to feel disappointed– I came in without expectations and totally enjoyed the villains here.  Sir Ben Kingsley is wonderful as Mandarin–his performance is strong and pleasantly unexpected.  Guy Pierce’s Aldrich Killian is fantastic!  This guy is good and he is having a blast.  Chewing up scenery like crazy!   I also like Rebecca Hall, yet her character was the least developed and seem like an afterthought.  But we did have some henchmen with swagger and that is always fun–nice job, James Badge Dale and Stephanie Szostak.

The most pleasant surprise for me was Shane Black’s direction.  Known more as a screenwriter, I was not sure he could handle the amount of action required for these big summer films–but smartly, Black scales down the over-the-top sequences and somehow is able to make it feel grittier and real.  Bringing Stark to earth allows him the opportunity to present the action with a fresh angle.  Well done.

What else can I say?  I laughed.  A lot.   I was choked up, in parts.  I was awed and impressed.  I left bumped and ready to watch it again.  So, yeah…it rocked!  My favorite of the series–hands down.

Iron Man 3 – Official Trailer #2 (HD) – YouTube

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Oblivion is a love letter to Science Fiction–

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A man, wearing a white jacket with a gun on his back, walks through a destroyed bridge. The tagline "Earth is a memory worth fighting for" appears on the top while Tom Cruise's name, the title of the film, the rating and the rest of the credits appears on the bottom.

Oblivion is a beautifully filmed homage to all things Science Fiction–and though it may not be 100% original, it does create a fresh spin on old themes and therefore shines and takes you on a journey worth taking–especially on the big screen.  It helps that Tom Cruise was made for roles like this–he is strong and engaging–and again, I can not deny Mr. Cruise’s star quality.

Most of the credit though, has to go to co-writer/director Joseph Kosinski (Tron: Legacy)–who created the Graphic Novel on which it is based.  Kosinski is an obvious lover of Sci-Fi and has been influenced and inspired by many sources, yet I can not help but like the universe he created.  The actions sequences were interesting and very polished, if not especially memorable.  Again, it may not go down as a ground-breaking classic–but it will join the ranks as a fine, entertaining addition to the genre.

In a short time he was able to capture the essence of the world and then slowly he revealed the bigger picture, which had plenty of nice, unique touches.  I guessed most of the “twists” but it by no means lessened my enjoyment.  But, in true sci-fi fashion, Kosinski brought up some compelling themes–what equates humanity?  And do we have a soul and/or spirit that remains with us?  How easily are humans controlled?  Etc.  Nicely done.

Some kudos for the beautiful landscape must be expressed–cinematographer Claudio Miranda just took home an Oscar for Life of Pi and it was no fluke–he has an incredible eye and some of the shots are gorgeous!  The modern, cool house in the sky was particularly well conceived–I can live there.  ;) Filmed in Iceland, the barren and isolated feeling worked well with the narrative and added to the story itself.

You also can not go wrong when you’ve chosen a strong supporting cast.  Morgan Freeman is always awesome.  I was impressed by Andrea Riseborough as Victoria and will keep an eye on her future.  Olga Kurylenko as Julia is a bit flat–but I think she is like that all time–and it’s a shame because it could have elevated the film.  Nice to see Nikolaj Coster-Waldau not being a cocky Lannister :D , but his and Melissa Leo‘s roles were small, yet solid.

Bottom line?  Not a bad way to spend a time at the movies.  Despite its obvious influences, I felt it was still a well crafted film–beautiful in scope–and entertaining throughout.  Trust me, I’ve seen worse.

Oblivion Official Trailer #1 Tom Cruise Sci-Fi Movie HD – YouTube

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You’re Next Viral Campaign is Awesome!

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I was very, very fortunate to see, one of only two screenings of Lionsgate’s acquired You’re Next at Fantastic Fest 2011 and let me say I was blown away!  It was fun, creative and pretty damn awesome.

Finally, the marketing has begun!  We got a cool trailer–‘You’re Next’ Trailer – YouTube– and now I found out about this cool viral campaign via Collider.  I had to share because it is brilliant.

Can’t wait to see it again (and get creepy masks for Halloween)!!  Release date is in August–check it out:

Horror Film YOU’RE NEXT Takes Over Posters for PEEPLES in New York City as Part of Viral Takeover

 

I enjoyed Jack Reacher. A lot.

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The poster shows a man, injured and holding a gun, standing in front of a car. Text at the bottom reveals the tagline and in bottom reveals the film's main actor and title, credits, rating and release date.

Tom Cruise is indeed Jack Reacher and I have to admit that he is pretty cool.  Yes, it may be a bit predictable and it does not reinvent the genre–but, it does deliver big time in the fun factor and the entertainment value!  I appreciated the realistic approach to the action and can not deny Cruise his star quality–he sells it and you end up buying it.   :)

First of all, let me say that I have not read any of Lee Child‘s novels, so I did not go in with an image of the character that many of his fans did.  What I understand is that JR is a huge, beast of a man–“Reacher is 6’5″ tall (1.96 m) with a 50-inch chest, and weighing between 220 and 250 pounds (100–115 kg). He has ice-blue eyes and dirty blond hair.”  And obviously, Cruise does NOT fit that description.

In his defense, I think he carried the attitude and displayed the ability to be that character without the size and ice-blue eyes.  He is BIG in spirit.  Plus, let us not forget that size does not equal prowess–Bruce Lee, anyone?  So, bottom line is that I bought it.  It was filmed in a believable fashion and unless you are set on Reacher’s physical appearance, it should not be an issue.

 

Credit must also be given to writer/director Christopher McQuarrie, who has been impressive with his screenplays–(The Usual Suspects quite possibly being his masterpiece)–and after this, is now in talks to direct Cruise in the next Mission Impossible film.  Well, he makes smart choices here.  By taking his time with the action he allows it to become tense and palpable.  McQuarrie also plays it smart with the narrative.  Yes, you’re able to pick up the hints and clues–but that in itself is part of the fun.  He allows Reacher to be impressive and yet also reminds you to wink and smile too.

Add a strong supporting cast–the lovely Rosamund Pike, the ever-awesome Richard Jenkins, the interesting David Oyelowo, and the creepy Werner Herzog– and a wonderful cameo (that I don’t want to spoil) and you end up enjoying your time in Jack Reacher’s company.

So much so, that I am actually wishing for a sequel–crazy–right?!  :D   Indeed.

Jack Reacher Trailer

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Catch Up Time! (Again.)

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Playing catch-up…again.  I am seriously behind on current films–life seems to be getting in the way of posting lately–but, I have watched a few.  Here we go with another compilation post!

Robot and Frank

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I LOVED THIS FILM!!  Wonderful.  Every once in awhile you find a treasure and Robot and Frank is a just that.  It is a quiet film from first time director Jake Schreier and TV writer Christopher Ford, that appears simple yet reveals its complexity deliberately and slowly.  It is a shame that Frank Langella was not nominated throughout the award season last year and that this film went almost unnoticed.  Langella is brilliant. I must mention Robot’s voice, which is performed by Peter Sarsgarrd and I was impressed what he is able to achieve without the aid of facial expression.  The supporting cast (Tyler, Marsden and Sarandon) happens to be perfect, too.  This film will touch you and make you consider the passage of time, aging and the moments that connect us to each other.   It is beautiful.  Warm, funny and poignant.  Find it and watch it!  :D

Olympus Has Fallen

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Big and fun!  Olympus Has Fallen reminded me of an 80′s action movie–and that is not totally a bad thing.  Of course, you have to suspend your rational thinking and knowledge of how the American government works (things would’ve never gone that far)–but, it is still fun.  I like the action version of Gerard Butler (than all the horrible rom-coms of late) and was happy to see him kick some ass.  The main star of this film though is director Antoine Fuqua, who knows how to direct tense, well paced action.  Thank goodness!  Because if I had to take this on credibility–it would FAIL!  LOL!

Admission

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I liked Admission–a lot.  Also, it is NOT a romantic-comedy–it is more like a dramedy.   It may have helped that I am a huge Tina Fey and Paul Rudd fan and they have a wonderful chemistry that carries the film.  Director Paul Weitz has yet to make a better film than About a Boy, but he still has a nice style of telling a story.  My favorite aspect though is the non-Hollywood approach to everything.  That is refreshing and adds extra points of awesome.

PS Lilly Tomlin needs to make more movies!  She’s fantastic.

The Oranges

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The Oranges has a very strong, capable cast and a unique approach to a common movie theme, yet somehow it fails to impress.  It is not bad–it just feels uneven.  I think the main problem is tone–the narrative never finds the right approach.  I think it was going for dark comedy, without being truly funny or cutting deep enough.  I did like the freshness of the theme and the honest growth of the characters–but not enough to love it.

Sinister

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Oh Sinister!  At first, I was hooked.  Heavy on mood and a clever, original premise, the story starts strong–yet, I found the typical, horror-movie stupid choices (redeems itself a little too late) and the drawn out tension scenes start to wear you down.  I went from tense…to annoyed (does anyone ever turn ON a light??)… to not scared…to yup, he had it coming.   Not as bad as most of the dumb horror stuff that has come out and with a strong performance by Ethan Hawke, Sinister rises a bit above the norm.

Hitchcock

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So much potential…wasted.  I love Hitchcock!  Truly a genius and innovator in modern film.  I was excited that this was going to revolve around the making of his 1960 seminal film, Psycho–I was expecting behind the scenes drama because it is well-known that this was controversial film, on many levels (a transvestite? a toilet on-screen? nudity (implied or not)? etc–etc)–and yet, it was dull.  All the juicy details were only spoken about and the film spent more time on an obvious ”MacGuffin” of Hitchcock’s marriage woes.  NOOOO!

It is even more upsetting because Anthony Hopkins and Helen Mirren are great together.  When they are on-screen it works–the relationship between Hitchcock and his wife, Alma Reville, should have been the main focus, but with their positive dynamic in the forefront.  I tired of the heavy-handed “Hitchcockian” touches throughout–why?  Why did it have to become an homage to his style? Why not focus on the really interesting story of the making of Psycho?   Oh well.   **Sigh**

Okay.  That’s it.  All caught up…for now!  :D

Oz, the Great and Powerful is a good family film…

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Unfortunately, that is my highest compliment.  Although Oz, the Great and Powerful succeeds in pleasing their demographic–I was left wanting.  With that said, I am sure many will love this film and kids (especially) will enjoy the story and beautiful imagery.

First of all, I should state that I like The Wizard of Oz, but I am not a fanatic about it.  The new Oz follows its lead in being a wholesome family film, but it does not even get close to its classic status.  While some felt that Disney was taking a gamble in trying to reboot a beloved classic, it seems to have paid off for them (sequel is already in the works).  Hey, they have to make the $$$.

So, why wanting?  For me, it was a bit one dimensional.  Everything looked great and paid homage to the original (more based on novel, than the 1939  film because of property rights)–but it was just…flat.  I did not care for any character on-screen.  I was never invested.  It’s just pretty.

The cast okay.  Again, no stand outs.  James Franco was fine–but could’ve have been more con-artist-y or shady, that way his arch was more believable.  Rachel Weisz was good–but it felt like she was limited.  Mila Kunis was wasted–that character had SO much potential, yet it was all too fast–too rushed.  Michelle Williams had more screen time and yet, her character too is so shallow and simple.  The CG sidekicks–Zach Braff as Finley (the monkey) and Joey King as China Doll were, again, okay.  See, not much to get excited about it.

Well, there were the cool special effects–the opening sequence was pretty sweet.  I appreciated the black and white tribute and then the use of introduced characters in the Oz world (a salute to the original).  Ummmm… I’m thinking…I’m thinking…I liked the land of Oz–the poppy fields–the different citizens–the flying baboons (much more scary than plain monkeys).  Yeah.  I think that is it.

Everything my daughter and I thought of that could have made this film better, would have changed the safe PG rating and possibly alienated some.  But hey, in defense of a PG rating–Pixar and Disney have been extremely successful in providing clean, safe entertainment that also has substance and is able to keep an adult’s interest.  So, then it just boils down to a lackluster script and unfortunately, director Sam Raimi‘s choices.  What a shame.  I am a true Raimi fan and was looking forward to this, just because of him.  Deep sigh.

Bottom line?  It’s not bad.  It’s not awesome.  It’s okay and kids will like it.  That’s it.

 

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Too Much Twilight to Take?: Prologue

Reblogged from Fogs' Movie Reviews:

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Ok folks. Here we go. I'm about to embark on this... ridiculous stunt epic adventure.

We're not off to a good start, I overslept by an hour or so in a show of procrastination and protest, but I'm doing it. I'm headin' right in to start this puppy up. The next time I post here, I'll have watched my first Twilight movie!

Read more… 119 more words

My poor friend, Fogs over at Fogs' Movie Reviews, is subjecting himself to cruel and unusual torture by watching the ENTIRE Twilight Saga in one day!! I feel for his pain, but he is past #3 and his live blogging of the films has been AWESOME!! Frackin' Hilarious! If you have some time go check it out--it is fantastic fun! Stay strong, Fogs...we are enjoying this too much. :D

Snitch is better than expected–not that my bar was that high!

I love Dwayne Johnson!  He has presence, charisma and a million-watt smile.  Born to be an action movie star, for sure!   And yet, his “family friendly”  choices have left most of us dreading some of his films–but when action is mixed in, it usually turns out fun–most of the time.  With Snitch, Johnson throws us a curve ball–a drama, with very little action, and it works.

The trailer is a bit deceiving–and necessarily so–fans of The Rock demand action!  Well, they will get a little–but definitely not enough to make sure there would be repeated viewings.  Yet, I liked it.  Maybe because I want Johnson to do well.   :D

This story is based on true events and is interesting, although a bit too after school special in areas.  Writer/Director  Ric Roman Waugh does a decent job with the material–but it is pretty standard and at times, he appears to be in over his head (especially with tense and action scenes).

What saves the film from disposable trash, are the performances–Johnson holds his own (I hope he gets more dramatic opportunities) and is able to make you believe that he is a normal, average dude–that can in no way snap your neck with one hand.   :D  Side note:  I think that is going to be his biggest obstacle–playing the everyday man–what works well for him are the Rundown (which I love!) sort of characters–NOT the everyday man, but everyday man desires and behaviors.  Otherwise we will always snicker a bit–especially when he could easily kick all sorts of ass!  Can you smell what the Rock is cooking?? LOL!

Yet it is the supporting cast that shines here.  Barry Pepper–where have you been?  I’ve missed you.  Jon Bernthal is perfectly cast (SHANE!! Shout out).  Michael K. Williams is a badass, per usual (OMAR!! Shout out).  Susan Sarandon is great and Benjamin Bratt even shows up.  Yeah…they keep you invested throughout.  I believe with a lesser cast this could have failed.

So, thankfully–in part to good casting and a solid premise–Snitch turns out to be decent entertainment.  Gives me hope for Mr. Rock–keep it up.  (But, who am I kidding?  I would go see him no matter what.  :D  Except for Tooth Fairy..I DID NOT see that–and never will. -_-)

 

SNITCH – Trailer – YouTube

 

 

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Life of Pi is interesting and beautiful, but doesn’t quite resonate…

Maybe it was underwhelming because I’ve read the book.  I am not completely sure, yet while Yann Martel‘s novel Life of Pi, was able to truly explore faith, religion and human nature–I felt like Ang Lee‘s film rushed through most of the abstract themes and ended up being a beautifully illustrated, interesting story of survival–that was neither spiritual or emotional.

Visually it is stunning.  Not sure how much is CG (it seems like a lot)–but either way it is spectacular.  The rendering of the animals is very well done–although, there were a few “fake” looking moments, it was not enough to ruin anything.  The acting by the three young actors, who play Pi, are strong and suit the role.  Yet, I did not ever feel connected to Pi or the tiger–I was ready to shed some tears that never materialized.

Lee’s direction is adept and he weaves a captivating story–but he allows for too much exposition in some areas and for me, it took away some of the power.  I felt this to be the true with the ending–it was the ultimate “let me explain this…just in case you do not understand”.  Storytelling, at its best, allows for the audience to form its own opinions and should not result in spoon-feeding all the little details.  I guess they thought it would be too confusing.

Bottom line, I loved the novel.  I was taken on a journey of self-discovery and faith.  With the film, I almost felt cheated.  Lied to.  Weird, I know.  Instead of being a story that would make me believe in God–it ended up being a film that made me believe in the magic of cinema–not bad, but not the experience I was hoping for.

Life of Pi Trailer 2 Official [HD 1080] – YouTube

 

Side note:  Life of Pi  won 4 Oscars last month and I could not be upset or happy because I had not watched it.  Now that I’ve seen it, I must say that I have some issues with the some of the wins–especially for the Best Director.  Yes, it was well done–nicely paced and seamless F/X–but in 2012 there were several directors (Affleck, Tarantino, Anderson, etc.) that deserved it more.  (Just my opinion.)

 

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