Directed By: Brian Trenchard-Smith Written By: Jon George & Neill Hicks Story By: Robert Williams, David Lawrence & George Schenck Cinematography: John McLean Editor: Alan Lake
Cast: Steve Railsback, Olivia Hussey, Michael Craig, Carmen Duncan, Noel Ferrier, Lynda Stoner, Roger Ward, Michael Petrovitch, Gus Mercurio, John Ley
In a dystopian future where deviants are held in “re-education” camps, a freedom fighter and a wrongfully-accused prisoner form an alliance to survive their decadent oppressors’ game of kill-or-be-killed – and turn the tide against them.
This is pure Ozploitation a prime example of the cinematic style and genre.
This is a B-Movie that strikes the right tone. As it is ridiculous and explosive but stays inventive and entertaining.
Some might even watch this movie and can see it as an early version of the film THE RUNNING MAN
This is a film that makes clear from the beginning who will not likely be the victims.
The film seems to try to build up a sexiness for a female character but never quite follows through. Never giving her any character and is eliminated without a thought especially when it seems the female warden has a special interest in Her, more than any of the males.
Most of the wardens are actually more interesting and fun than the prisoners.
One of the evil wardens doesn’t even seem like he was really capable of doing any real hunting, physically.
This film is one of the few times seeing Olivia Hussey in a film and as the lead. She is quite beautiful as the most innocent of the bunch. Which helps her to get the audience’s biggest sympathies throughout.
There are times when the film goes over the top in many fun ways. When it comes to the action, violence, and character but it also travels into the ridiculous. Like when it comes to the strange animal wolf-human character.
The bald guard who aids the warden thought he was going to be a bigger adversary for the prisoners if he ends up barely being a Challenge. As the film seems to set him up at first as more of the main villain than just a right-hand man.
This movie is never truly slow or boring. Though is continuously violent and ridiculous that you can’t help but have a fun time watching
Directed By: Richard Donner Written By: Brian Helgeland Cinematography By: John Schwartzman Editor: Kevin Stitt & Frank J. Urioste
Cast: Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts, Patrick Stewart, Cylk Cozart, Troy Garity, Sean Patrick Thomas, Peter Jacobson, Thomas McCarthy, Rick Hoffman
Jerry Fletcher is a man in love with a woman he observes from afar. She works for the government. Fletcher is an outspoken critic of that government. He has conspiracy theories for everything, from aliens to political assassinations. But soon, one of his theories finds itself to be accurate. But which one? Some dangerous people want him dead and the only person he trusts is that woman he loves but does not know.
The film has a notable cast which is how the film will peak your interest and hook you. It also has a kind of underdog story at heart. Of course as expected by the title the film makes various references to popular conspiracies Such as assassinations, Lee Harvey Oswald
It has Mel Gibson Playing against type. He is more invested and Actually seems a bit more challenging for him. Though he still keeps his jokey tough demeanor.
It’s billed as an action thriller but ends up More like a comedy. As even the action sequences seem to end with some kind of joke or more humor than thrills necessarily.
The film’s Seems to fit into the Richard Donner funhouse. Where the film is entertaining above all else and beautiful to look at, Even though the film Tries to be gritty but always seems more like a typical Hollywood production. As Director Donner is one of the last of the studio directors who had to work his way up to directing by first working his way around every other department before getting the lucrative directing jobs. So he knows his way around way department having been vetted.
He is a director who constantly makes likeable movies that do ok but few would probably register as favorites of all time. But is a Consulate Hollywood director who deserves respect for making quite a few memorable films such as THE OMEN, The LETHAL WEAPON series of movies, 16 BLOCKS, MAVERICK.
The film is written by Brain Helgeland who also wrote and directed the Mel Gibson PAYBACK. Where you wonder if their working relationship was formed on this film.
One scene just seems so big even if it is minor. It’s a masterpiece of it’s own even if overblown. It’s After he buys the book. The scenes grand production that seems to set off just to try and capture him. Especially with a familiar sight involved. Just at the time seemed so amazing and was the epitome of Hollywood magic.
Even the thriller elements are entertaining. As they are just creepy enough to add some suspense and tries to throw you off. Even though you know how it will probably turn out.
It’s a film where every one seems to have secrets even the good guys. So that at every turn you don’t know who to really trust or believe.
Patrick Stewart is here truly chewing the scenery in his delicious turn as the main villain.
It’s a movie that keeps building so that even if it were done on a modest budget by the end it has grown so big it would have to need major stars for the size of production and for the audience to keep believing. Don’t know if this film would be made today As it is more driven by star power especially two very big names attached and mid budgeted so unless really a gamble or as someone’s passion project which this wouldn’t Really be or somehow it would have to be Sci-fi or superhero related or be an independent financed film.
The film is Disarming how enjoyable it is though somewhat predictable.
Though she is a major star of the movie they don’t leave Julia Roberts with much to do other then Be the brainy damsel in distress. She is only really here for star power. Which truly seem the only reason this film was made. As they try to market it as more a modern team-up of stars. Even though the characters are close there is no real romance beckoning though the film keeps trying to build up one.
This is pretty much a movie star movie. The story might actually be something ambitious for more than a mid-size budget, but in the end, it’s a movie for the audience to stare and gawk as two superstar movie stars share the screen. It’s actually not a stunt here as the stars do share a number of scenes and the movie doesn’t make you wait around for half the movie for it to happen. Though the film ends up being best for a Saturday afternoon a breezy affair with no real stakes. That you will mostly watch to see who is In it rather than what it is about. Sort of like those black and white movies starring a star of yesteryear that you watch only because you like the star. Not necessarily the story.
The film Won’t stick with you too long after but a crowd pleaser
You feel by the end like you got your money’s worth though keep in mind I saw this at the $2 theater. Back when there was one. This is where movies played second string after their major release, right before reaching hoe. Video at the time. Today think of that more as a digital release before the DVD/Blu-ray
Directed By: Kevin Donovan Written By: Michael J. Wilson & Michael Leeson Story By: Phil Hay, Matt Manfredi & Michael J. Wilson Cinematography By: Stephen F. Windon Editor: Craig P. Herring
Cast: Jackie Chan, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Debi Mazar, Jason Issacs, Peter Stomare, Romany Malco, Ritchie Coster
Jimmy Tong is just a lowly chauffeur for millionaire Clark Devlin, until Devlin has an accident that puts him in the hospital. Tong is sent back to fetch some things for Devlin and unknowingly tries on Devlin’s tuxedo and finds that it gives extraordinary powers to anyone that dons the suit. This discovery thrusts Tong into world of international intrigue and espionage and pairs him with an inexperienced partner.
This is another Jackie Chan American comedy. That usually requires him to either team up with another star of some sort or kids. This film takes more of a middle ground by not being aimed at children as some of the material is more trying to be aimed at an older or maybe even teenage audience with a light touch. Even though one can only see it appealing more to a younger audience.
Now the film tries to go with what works for him, teaming him up with someone else in action-comedy. Though by this time it seems like he was starring in the same movies. Only with different partners and each time seems to lower the level of quality and appeal. As after the SHANGHAI NOON’s and RUSH HOUR’s none of the other films warranted a sequel.
This time they have him teaming up with Jennifer Love Hewitt an attractive teenage partner. This also leads the film to hint at an improbable suggestion of romance between the two of them. Though he seems a bit long in the tooth for the role.
She seems here more to be the eye candy and comedic prop at times, but at least she has more to do in her role than She usually does Especially physically.
The film has a funny premise as an action-comedy. Where Jackie Chan seems more comfortable with this material. As his character isn’t a natural fighter. All the king fun and stunt hijinks are due to a gadget-laden tuxedo that he never quite gets the handle on that even has him dancing like James brown at a James Brown concert. After accidentally knocking him out. Again this shows you the level of humor.
The film is largely forgettable but is entertaining for what it is worth. It will have you rolling your eyes a bunch. After all, It’s a silly, fun movie you don’t watch for filmmaking.
I will admit the only reason I really wanted to watch the movie for was Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jason Issacs who I am a fan of, here he plays a James Bond-ish secret agent who becomes incapacitated, and Jackie Chan as his bumbling chauffeur has to take over in the mission and through a case of mistaken identity.
This wouldn’t be the type of film one would usually Watch. As you can never take anything in this film seriously especially the threats. Even the New York of the film is obviously In Sets and filmed in Canada.
Seems like a grown up film made for kids. That is how ridiculous and silly the situations and plot are at times.
Luckily in the film when in doubt cut to a shot of jennifer love Hewitt in a tight outfit and low neckline. The film seems to contain less action fight sequences then stunt physical comedy sequences which when Jason issacs wears the suit is special effects but when Jackie Chan dies it it is actual live stunts work, but is filmed the same way so it might as well be special effects
This movie is only worth watching for fans of Jackie Chan exclusively.
Directed By: Kitao Sakurai Story By: Eric Andre, Kitao Sakurai & Andrew Barchilon Written By: Dan Curry, Eric Andre & Kitao Sakurai Cinematography: Andrew Laboy Editor: Sascha Stanton Craven, Matthew Kosinski & Caleb Swyers
Cast: Eric Andre, Lil Rel Howery, Tiffany Haddish, Michaela Conlin, Allan Graf
This mix of a scripted buddy comedy road movie and a real hidden camera prank show follows the outrageous misadventures of two buds stuck in a rut who embark on a cross-country road trip to NYC. The storyline sets up shocking real pranks.
This comes from the cinematic form. That seems more an extension of the Jackass movies and television show. Just as Sascha Baron Cohen with the BORAT films. As this film is more just a loose series of stunts and pranks that rely on the reactions of real people not actors who are brought into the scene. Not knowing they are being filmed. Their true reactions to such shocking and sensationalistic actions and scenarios are what keep the film afloat.
As there is a rather thin storyline that is easily forgettable but keeps the characters moving and allows them to be in different locations and states to test out the material. While secretly being filmed.
Now this is also an extension of star and comedian Eric Andre’s show. Where he is known more for his absurdist and gross humor as well as improv man on the street skits.
I can’t vouch for this movie cinematically but I can say if you are into gross and shocking humor. It will keep you laughing throughout despite plot holes or absence of logic. Not only to see the reactions but to see the set-ups
Though it is Eric Andre’s platform more. Tiffany haddish steals her scenes throughout and seems natural. As this film reminds us of the depth of her talents. Whereas more recently she has seemed to be on autopilot here she actually feels like she is invested. lil rel Howery does what he can do but mostly throughout he is more the straight man and rarely gets to cut loose except for a scene or two.
Half the enjoyment of this film is the reactions from the bystanders. Sometimes they are surprisingly good hearted and other times mad, it always manages to surprise you. As you watch you tend to wonder how this is believable or how they set it up In Addition To the u predictable behavior of the bystanders
If looking to just be entertained or are a fan of any of the three comedians who make up the cast. You will love the film naturally. For others, be aware as you can get the feel of the film just from the trailers.
Directed By: Todd Phillips Written By: Todd Phillips & Scot Armstrong Story by: Court Crandall, Todd Phillips & Scot Armstrong Cinematography: Mark Irwin Editor: Michael Jablow
Cast: Luke Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Will Ferrell, Jeremy Piven, Juliette Lewis, Ellen Pompeo, Elisha Cuthbert, Craig Kilborn, Leah Remini, Perrey Reeves, Seann William Scott, Rick Gonzalez, Simon Helberg, Matt Walsh, Artie Lange, Sara Tanaka, Patrick Fischler, Harve Presnell, Sarah Shahi, Bryan Callen, Eddie Peppitone, Jerod Mixon, Gregory Alan Williams, Rob Corddry, James Carville, Snoop Dogg, Warren G,
Mitch, Frank and Beanie are disillusioned with their personal lives beginning when Mitch’s nymphomanic girlfriend, Heidi, cheats on him, then former party animal Frank gets married, but unwilling to let go of his wild life, and Beanie is a family man seeking to reclaim his wild and crazy youth. Beanie suggests that they form their own fraternity in Mitch’s new house on a college campus to re-live their glory days by bringing together a variety of misfit college students, losers, middle-aged and elderly retirees as their new friends and later try to avoid being evicted by the new Dean of Students, Pritchard, whom still holds a personal grudge against all three of them.
The film is funny and goes hard to a point, but when close to the edge it turns back at times and doesn’t go onto how funny as it seems or could have been but it ends up still funny enough.
As It seems to cheer bigger and better snd trying to make that promise but then delivers only halfway of what seemed guaranteed.
Though it was early before more comedic films in the same vein did indeed go further and bigger. This might have been their inspiration.
The film feels more made for teens who were too young to actually get their own ticket for it and people in their early to mid twenties. Though the older one gets the more they might be able to identify with it or it’s characters a bit more.
Luke Wilson’s character is more of a reluctant lead throughout the film. He is traumatized at first but seems to embrace the party lifestyle. Then go against it. In the end he only seems to accept to help to actually help the pledges out. Now hai reluctance can be seen as him rebounding and emotionally trying to find himself through distractions that he knows are distractions but keeps getting lured back. As it is easier on him psychologically.
Which might have worked out more if he accepted it initially full sail. See how far it went while going all in then helping the pledges at the end but also seeing his way out of the chaos his life has become.
For all the classic comedic moments and bits the movie belongs to Will Ferrell who steals all of his scenes.
This was one of the first movies where even though a supporting performance he truly lets loose comedically and not by a comedy or character of his own creations. Or concept. Showing all he needs is direction and a little freedom to let him loose.
Also it’s more his film as the film has Luke Wilson’s character trying to recover from a bad relationship but the film shows ferrell’s character trying to find himself after trying to be normal and caged in marriages which is obviously not him. his character has the biggest transformation throughout
At first it seems like he is filling out a kind of Tom green comedian of the moment role. The same green had in ROAD TRIP as the crazy friend. But Ferrell’s character is strongly indebted to the story and with the other character. Whereas Green in the previous film seems there to do bits and appear either on his own or in a scene or two with other characters, but wasn’t really integral to the film or group of friends.
Jeremy Piven’s character seems to let his look do more of the work as a villain. He never truly makes his presence or threats felt dangerous or truly threatening. He is also the main piece of the film that feels formulaic left over from an ANIMAL HOUSE type film. Though his character is what helps keep the film afloat as far as plot and conflict.
Vince Vaughn here is really starting to get the hang of his more comedic on screen persona that seems to have started in the film MADE. Though the film gives him a nice character defining moment. When with a pretty young coed talking alone and about to get with her after a minor seduction. He gets cold feet and is nervous and blows it. Showing to a degree not only is he all talk, but actually loves and cares about his wife and family more than he lets on. He gets the reality of his fantasy and might just realize how good he has it.
The film doesn’t offer much for the female cast to do. Especially Leah Remini as it seems she is perfectly cast as Vince Vaughn’s wife. It seems like she will be sarcastic, no nonsense and wisecracking but to no avail as instead she is a presence and seems to be a best friend of Will Ferrell’s newlywed wife helping her get adjusted to marriage. So for her here it seems like most of the films’ female casting is pretty but full of wasted opportunities.
This film is definitely a step up from ROAD TRIP for director Todd Phillips. As this feels better and more strongly structured. It also has a stronger story where it doesn’t feel as episodic.
Directed By: Todd Phillips Written By: Todd Phillips & Scot Armstrong Cinematography: Mark Irwin Editor: Sheldon Kahn
Cast: Breckin Meyer, Seann William Scott, Tom Green, Amy Smart, Paulo Costanzo, DJ Qualls, Rachel Blanchard, Anthony Rapp, Fred Ward, Andy Dick, Ethan Suplee, Horatio Sanz, Jessica Cauffiel, Wendell B. Harris Jr., Mary Lynn Rajskub, Todd Barry, Matt Walsh, Cleo King
In the University of Ithaca, while showing the campus to the new students and their relatives, the veteran tour guide Barry Manilow tells the love story of his friend Josh Parker. Josh has a girlfriend, Tiffany Henderson, who went to the University of Austin, and they have promised to be faithful to each other. However, Josh has an affair with his sexy friend Beth Wagner, and they have accidentally videotaped it. One of his friends sends the videotape to Tiffany by mistake, and Josh decides to travel to Austin with his friends E.L., Rubin Carver and Kyle Edwards to retrieve the videotape before Tiffany sees it. Will he succeed?
This is a small Film set up and succeeds at being an epic blockbuster
This Feels like a return to the 1980’s type of college movie. Though like most of director Todd Phillips comedies. It never goes as far at pushing the envelope, but further then most were at the time and for quite some time before.
Like this film allowed for more gross pushing the limits humor that has been absent. So at the time this was a return and kind of radical of what was expected of at the time emboldened by one of the stars of the film Seann Willam Scott’s previous hit film he appeared in AMERICAN PIE
Though at the time understandable as this was Mr. Phillips first official film, especially a studio film. He seems all in for taking risks but not totally.
The film has many memorable scenes but the material never quite sticks to the landing. Though what works is more the random Original comedy at the college.
Tom Green who co-stars and was one of the bigger names in the cast at the time. Having a hit television show on MTV. Seems here to kind of grow his career and start a big screen comedic career. His character is vital somewhat to the movie, but for the most part seems off to the side and by himself. Only to have his own little side plot that leads to a comedically Over the top scene and to give information. Not to mention is supposedly the narrator for the film.
As a road trip movie truly living Up to its title. Is episodic and loose which makes it seem more like a bunch of skits involving the same group of characters.
While each makes their presence felt. As this is supposed to be an ensemble film. Breckin Meyer is the lead that the plot revolves around and overall comedic straight man. Which makes him feel boring in comparison to most. It ends up the same with his love interests. Who are pretty but not given much to do.
While there are many memorable characters DJ Qualls walks away with the movie as the MVP. His innocent character learns how to let loose and comes of age.
The scene that seems the most classic Is when the story has them staying at an all black frat house.
One of the strengths of Todd Phillips is that even here and throughout most of his comedic feature films is that he always fills his films with comedians in acting roles, usually comedic actors who are more adept at improv that add to the looseness of scenes. Though they help build the humor in scenes also.
Directed By: Howard Zieff Written By: Janet Kovalcik Based On Characters created by: Laurice Ehlewany Cinematography By: Paul Elliott Editor: Wendy Greene Bricmont
Cast: Anna Chlumsky, Austin O’Brein, Richard Mausr, Christine Ebsrsole, Dan Ayckroyd, Jamie Lee Curtis, Gerrit Graham, Ben Stein, Keone Young, Devon Gummersall
Vada Sultenfuss has a holiday coming up, and an assignment: to do an essay on someone she admires and has never met. She decides she wants to do an assignment on her mother, but quickly realizes she knows very little about her. She manages to get her father to agree to let her go to LA to stay with her Uncle Phil and do some research on her mother. Once in LA, she finds herself under the protection of Nick, the son of Phil’s girlfriend, who at first is very annoyed at losing his holidays to escort a hick *girl* around town. However, he soon becomes more involved in the difficult search.
This film is just as warm and charming as the first film. Though weaker overall in feel and subject matter
This is the last film that Howard Zieff directed, because he became increasingly debilitated by Parkinson’s disease. Carrie Fisher was also an uncredited script doctor on this film
It’s character from the first film we feel a connection with and want to see what is happening in their lives, but the movie offers less of a reason. So that it feels more like we are dropping by while something is developing . Which might have. Even the movies aim, it just never feels as compelling and things seem to happen more in a leisurely pace.
Which makes it seem like a film that adults might appreciate more then kids. Unless they are just connected to the characters from seeing the first film.
It goes more into the hippie lifestyle that she is around as well as delving more into a friendship than romance
The thing that is missing is that in the first film it was a coming of age story and we were introduced to her making her way through the world and seeing how her family worked while this outsider came in. As well as including a tragedy that you knew was coming
Though this film feels less needed than that film As it feels more like an unnecessary continuation of a story and characters where we leave half of the character from the original who appear more in a cameo. Which also loses some of the charm. As it’s nice to see them but we don’t get to see as much of them as we would Like.
And now she is dealing more with her uncle form the first film who here has a bigger part and we get to see him more humanized in his relationship with her and a romantic one. So we are dealing with the original character in a whole new landscape which seems smart, but isn’t as precious as the character is older and a lot more knowledgeable. It stays clean but she isn’t as naive.
Here the character is doing research more into her deceased mother which is what take up most of the films actions and time. She is also in a strange location for her. So she is exploring new territory. While being around the counter culture she still manages to stay innocent.
Strangely though older she is less boy crazy and fascinated by relationships. Which seems to be why by the end she finds herself in a minor one. Though still not really having any female friends. Which the film starts with her having but losing them to jealousy.
Anna Chlumsky has always been an earnest actress her performances have always felt truthful and soulful full of confidence. She is charming and is energetic in her performance. That feels adventurous and guides each performance she has. Though at least throughout she stay confident. Which leaves a good message and role model for little girls watching it and seeing themselves In the character. Luckily over the years she has come back as a major actress in adulthood and been Emmy nominated quite a few times on the award winning television show VEEP
Maybe it is that I grew up watching and dealing with the first film emotionally so that when the sequel was finally announced. –I looked forward to it and built it up on my head so that when i finally saw it I couldn’t help but find it disappointing. More as me and other might have grown out of it. As it came too little too late.
Now this is not a bad movie at all. If anything it feels heartwarming
Though it works as a continuation of a character like in the films MY AMERICAN COUSIN to AMERICAN BOYFRIENDS, also THE YEAR MY VOICE BROKE to FLIRTING, only skewing younger. Though offers motivation and moving into more adult themes for the characters here it maintains an innocence for everyone
The supporting characters are fun if not too memorable. The investigation is not that interesting or encompassing they seem only there to keep the story moving and the characters moving allowing for some developments.
Not too much of a side story by introducing another suitor for the uncle’s girlfriend.
This was a sequel that I was looking Forward to even though I was old enough to be skeptical and think how were they going to be able to equal the power (at least for me) of the original. As one Wanted to see the further adventures of Vada.
Which is exactly what this film does. She is a little older abd the film transports her out of her hometown into sprawling San Francisco. Bigger city for bigger adventures. As this film comes off more as episodic.
The seed are planeted early in the film. When her friend who we last saw her playing. With st the end of the original. Is jealous and ditches her for a boy who seems to constantly be flirting by with vada and vada In turn has no interest in nor picks up on it.
So as she searches for stories about her mother. The movie revolves around relationships. Her uncle and his girlfriends. Her and the girlfriends son who accompanies her everywhere In her fact finding mission and even her relationship with her mother and accepting her stepmother and her soon to be born Sibling.
That is what most films are about relationships. This one offers a bit of romance between her and the girlfriends son but other then a kids that is as deep as it gets.
One of the charms of the original so is that it came out of nowhere and had a more natural sense of character as well as generally good innocent humor for the most part. So that it felt like a gem out of nowhere that was also felt classical in A small town novel way. It felt comfortable.
Where as this film feels like most of the film it is stretching and feels way too planned out. It feels more designed then coming off natural and it kind of spoils it.
The film Still has some off the wall charm but not enough to make this film feel like it is worth the effort.
Though then Again I might be wrong as I was younger when the first film Came out and more cynical when the sequel came out and might have believed I was above it all. Kids might actually like it. So might those who took the first film to heart. Even though I did and still found myself disliking the sequels
Directed By: Jon Favreau Written By: Robert Orci, Alex Kurtman, Damon Lindelof, Mark Fergus & Hawk Ostby Story By: Steve Oedekerk, Mark Fergus & Hawk Ostby Based On The Graphic Novel By: Scott Mitchell Rosenberg Cinematography By: Matthew Labitque Editor: Dan Lebantal, Jim May
Cast: Daniel Craig, Olivia Wilde, Harrison Ford, Paul Dano, Adam Beach, Clancy Brown, Sam Rockwell, Abigail Spencer, Ana de la reguera, Toby Huss, David Carradine, Walton Goggins
The Old West.. where a lone cowboy leads an uprising against a terror from beyond our world. 1873. Arizona Territory. A stranger with no memory of his past stumbles into the hard desert town of Absolution. The only hint to his history is a mysterious shackle that encircles one wrist. What he discovers is that the people of Absolution don’t welcome strangers, and nobody makes a move on its streets unless ordered to do so by the iron-fisted Colonel Dolarhyde. It’s a town that lives in fear. But Absolution is about to experience fear it can scarcely comprehend as the desolate city is attacked by marauders from the sky. Screaming down with breathtaking velocity and blinding lights to abduct the helpless one by one, these monsters challenge everything the residents have ever known. Now, the stranger they rejected is their only hope for salvation. As this gunslinger slowly starts to remember who he is and where he’s been
This film you get exactly what you would expect from the title. A fun filled action extravaganza. That delivers the thrills. It is the very definition of a popcorn movie. It’s big loud and dumb and passes the time in a entertaining way. Impressive considering how much of a disaster it could have ended up being. It’s competently directed. Instead of feeling like it is based on a popular graphic novel. The film plays out instead more like a video game adaptation with familiar clichéd stories of proving yourself.
The effects certainly make the film lead that way and half the time it feels like you are playing a video game while watching it. The film feels overblown and just a genre mash-up with little other reason for its creation or to exist.
Strangely for such a big extravaganza it also oddly feels rushed.
This is the first time I have really seen Daniel Craig as a true lead and action star. He brings the Tall dark and quiet qualities that the led character of this film needs. He reminds you of a later day Steve McQueen. Craig is Mysterious dangerous and moral to a point.
Harrison Ford is nice to see giving a supporting performance. Rather then a lead one. It gives him a chance to play a character. Not an icon or heroic lead. It gives him more of a flavor then the vanilla he usually plays. Olivia Wilde while very beautiful and nice to look at has a role that makes no sense.
Paul Dano is a good actor. Who I am starting to get annoyed with always playing the dweeb characters. Certain actors have their schtick when playing characters. As this seems to be his in particular usually in big-budget movie supporting roles. While he has an odd look, He is certainly better then the roles he plays. look at TAKING LIVES he is dangerous in. In THERE WILL BE BLOOD he holds his own against Daniel Day-Lewis of all people.
Written & Directed By: David Mamet Cinematography By: Juan Ruiz Anchia Editor: Barbara Tulliver
Cast: Val Kilmer, Derek Luke, Kristen Bell, Tia Texada, Stephen Culp, Clark Gregg, Ed O’Neill, Aaron Stanford, Geoff Pierson, William H. Macy, Said Taghmaoui, Zosia Mamet
Maverick Ranger Scott, known for ruthless, unorthodox methods but good results, is called in to help the secret service after Washington big whig’s brat daughter is abducted while studying at Harvard. Scott quickly realizes the protection detail’s prime suspect, her boyfriend Michael Blake, is innocent and dumped her for being a drug-addicted slut. Next, he traces her to a bordello, only to realize the captors didn’t realize who she is but simply recruited her for the Middle Eastern white slavery market, and are likely to dispose of her rather than confront her father. But instead of the support expected in such a high-profile case, Scott gets orders to work in secret before the press catches on, and even finds his quest sabotaged.
This is a tight and taut film. Like a clock with airtight precision. It is also a strange film that has a rhythm and beat all its own.
It’s a top-notch thriller with a good story that plays small and close to the chest rather than a grand conspiracy blockbuster, but when you think you have it figured out. A twist you honestly didn’t see comes, then another one, then another one.
Truthfully I wouldn’t expect any less from playwright-writer-director David Mamet. Though I must say that while this is good. it is one of his lesser works. Which considering the excellent standing of his previous films isn’t bad.
His films specialize in sleight of hand movies. These days though he seems to take stories where you know and subvert them so you care more about the characters, their rapid-fire dialogue, and line delivery which have hidden meanings. Characters’ faces rarely betray emotion but do say so much with simple gestures and tone.
This film is noteworthy for a few reasons. It’s one of the closest Mamet will ever get to mainstream entertainment blockbuster type. Which is the direction. he has a top-notch low-key cast. Val Kilmer is the lead for one of the few times that a film he appears in makes it to the big screen. He really doesn’t get enough credit for how good an actor he is.
The film moves at a slow pace which adds to the slow burn of scenes, it is ultimately rewarding and gives the film more nuance. As it fleshes out characters. Which in other films would be strictly one-note. Mamet shows the procedures and what motivates their actions and reactions. So that you don’t get too far ahead of the lead, but doesn’t not leave you behind him in some scenes.
This film has action but is low on it. A fight scene for instance is started, but the camera stays on the face of Val Kilmer. while he watches it instead of on the actual action. So you can use your imagination to fill in the blanks while hearing it. Then you see the aftermath of the fight.
David Mamet performed rewrites during production using nothing more than a typewriter on a cardboard box between takes.
Except for a single day on a soundstage, the film was shot exclusively at practical locations.
Producer Art Linson and David Mamet were having lunch when Linson informed Mamet that he could not get anything more than a no-frills budget for the movie. Val Kilmer was literally at the next table. Linson knew Kilmer and asked him to come over, and they talked about the production. Kilmer was so impressed with the story and Mamet’s vision that he agreed to the role of giving a significant discount to facilitate Franchise Pictures giving a green-light to the production.
The film might be an acquired taste as I went to this film with one of my constant film companions my female cousin who was bored and really didn’t like the film. While I was quite captivated throughout
I don’t want to spoil too much, that would spoil the experience of seeing it with open eyes. Which I believe is where much of the film’s enjoyment lies.
One of the problems, with the film, is that one character does who is very close to the lead. When it happens he shows no emotions, but later when a character dies who the lead barely knows he tears up like a baby, delayed reaction as the person was hardly innocent. It feels out of place.
David Mamet incorporated a number of real-life experiences from various U.S. special forces members for the production, including Eric L. Haney who had served in highly classified operations during his 20-year military career. Haney’s experience included front-line combat units as a combat infantryman, as an Army Ranger, and as a founding operator within the elite Delta Force under Colonel Charlie Beckwith.
These experiences helped Haney effectively serve as a technical advisor, weapons expert, and actor’s mentor to Val Kilmer, ensuring that Kilmer reflected an accurate depiction of a special forces operative in every capacity. Haney retired as a highly decorated Sergeant Major, and his documented experience also includes security surveys, metro SWAT team arms training, oil company guard force management, executive protection, and the recovery of American children kidnapped and taken overseas.
The film never comes completely alive for all the thrills stays sedate and calm. While the size of production staying small and intimate brings a certain reality to the conspiracy it also feels like a letdown as the size of the story seems more on The scale of epic Or at least bigger proportions.
This is Mamet keeping his style for a major release that offers him a bigger palate. It actually reminds me of the minimalist style of Steven Soderbergh. I am surprised they never collaborated on a project.
Directed By: Bennett Miller Written By: E. Max Frye and Dan Futterman Cinematography By: Greg Fraser Editor: Jay Cassidy, Stuart Levy and Conor O’Neill
Cast: Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller, Vanessa Redgrave, Anthony Michael Hall, Guy Boyd, Brett Rice
The greatest Olympic Wrestling Champion brother team joins Team Foxcatcher led by multimillionaire sponsor John E. du Pont as they train for the 1988 games in Seoul – a union that leads to unlikely circumstances.
The film sets a brooding tone from the beginning, Which feels like the air has been let out of the room throughout the film.
Seeing the humiliation and what life is like in his brothers’ shadow. it seems is already its own tragedy of sorts. The story is told stilted yet matter-of-factly. While it seems each gesture even in behavior is presented almost under a microscope as its own action, As far as detail. Proving that in this film everything means something no matter how minor or even if dealt with in an off-handed way. So that the film feels more like a clinical behavioral study with precision angles.
I give the director Bennett Miller accolades for sticking with his singular vision for the film. His style helps not only define the film but showcases his style as well. Which seems to be more clinical and observational.
In this film, it is the deepest we have seen Channing Tatum ever and not quite surprisingly as good as 21 JUMP STREET. Where he proved he could be intentionally funny in a star-making turn. Here he plays the type of character you would expect, but rather than a general type of character here the film gives him nuances and a certain depth. Not letting him fall and not letting him avoid and go into his bag of tricks as an actor. You feel him really being open and raw in this performance. Having to truly work more than ever before in this role.
At first, Steve Carell seems like a stunt casting in his role. He seems to be trying to break out of strictly comedic roles here. Unfortunately, he seems to become more of a slave to the prosthetics used on him. It could also be that they were so distracting it’s hard to pay particular attention to the complexities of his performance. Though as with many comedic actors he plays well in the confines of drama as serious, disturbed, and strange. Almost feels like a Real-Life Version of the strange comedic character Dan Ackroyd played in NOTHING BUT TROUBLE only not as loud.
Just as in DAN IN REAL LIFE and SEEKING A FRIEND AT THE END OF THE WORLD playing a vulnerable character suits him and he attacks the role with more relish. He tries harder. Taking it as a challenge and running with it. More than he does with comedy, which is his natural talent, and more in his training. Not seeking to be one thing or play one note. Showing his range.
Mark Ruffalo is good though his character is already set up as a saint and martyr and he might be playing the person as he actually was. Good-hearted and that is what makes what happens so heartbreaking. Here he gives the character shades and is obviously important to the story. He seems to be the only character who has sense and is a sobering presence to the lunacy of the other main characters dementia of sorts.
Before filming a particularly dark scene, Bennett Miller made Steve Carell write on a piece of paper the thing that he hates the most about himself and then put it in his pocket. Miller told Carell, “Just have it right there, and know that it’s in a place where, if I was a dick, I could just grab it.” According to Miller, the result is the favorite thing that he has put on film.
Because the project took so many years to get off the ground, many actors were considered for the lead roles. Heath Ledger, Ryan Gosling, and Bill Nighy were strongly considered for the lead roles in the early stages of production.
More is said in silence and behavior throughout the film. It’s like a tragic buddy film. As soon as the main character’s relationship is close but ambiguous and never quite fully explained but suggestions are made silently as to the lengths of it.
The film never seems to drop its air of impending doom and tragedy. Setting a chilly mood and tone that never lets up and leaves things implied rather than explained.
Both characters are in a struggle to define themselves and impress family and others by standing on their own and defining themselves separate from how others might see them. Most of all they seem desperate to prove to themselves that they are more than the roles they have been offered in life. Then living up to it. Though one brings it about himself and the person, he is trying to prove himself to is more himself than his brother who is already proud of him. The other seems lost in his own mind to define himself not by actual talent but by what he finds interest in. As he has been given mostly what he has ever wanted and seems not to be that successful at it. But he has a passion it seems to showcase actual work and/or talent.
Eventually, the film leads to strained relations that seem to revolve between the characters at different intervals that keep seeming to mount more and more that you can feel that it is going to surface and bubble over at some point.
When it does it does rather simply and more out of the blue rather than. A showcase or a spectacular scene. I guess it’s like the facts just random and ordinary.
According to Bennett Miller’s comments at screening, a rough cut of the film was more than four hours long.
Steve Carell claimed that according to director Bennett Miller’s wishes there was no joking between takes, and he did not socialize with the co-stars after work.
According to Steve Carell, the real John DuPont was known for even more outlandish behavior than what is shown in the film, but he and director Bennett Miller wanted his madness to be gradually revealed to the audience.
The third act of deep resentment festering until a final act that you know is coming. Though still feels surprising when it happens and is just as senseless in the act as in the reasons.
The film feels downtrodden. It is based on a true story and real events. Though it keeps the story singular. It also makes the film feel barren and an island in of itself.
Too much of the people who love the good life. Go to extremes to feel something new and different. That registers and that they grant in control of to feel accomplishment in themselves. Here no one gets what they set out for, and their grand plan seems to doom them all to places that might have been inevitable but none planned to end up that way.
It’s a tragedy that feels like a boom as it sets the mood. It seems to be more about what is written between the lines though tells you the story fully as it happens. Nothing feels hidden.
The film ultimately comes off as a bit disappointing as we wallow but are given hints yet no definitive answers. The film immerses us in the drama and relationships yet still keeps them in the shadows a bit.
Cut To The Chase 