Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo, Jack McGee
Dir. David O Russell
Scr. Scott Silver, Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson
This film tells the story of a fighter you’ve probably never heard of – I certainly hadn’t. But don’t let that deter you. This is a great movie about family, redemption, self-belief and, yes, a bit of boxing. With one of the finest performances you’ll see on the silver screen all year.
The Fighter is about the early years of “Irish” Micky Ward, who was to become the welterweight champion of the world and, by all accounts, a hell of a tenacious fighter. Micky lives in the shadow of his older, half-brother Dicky Eklund who had once knocked out Sugar Ray Leonard and is now a crack addict. Destructive and unreliable, Dicky is Micky’s mentor and sparring partner. Managed by his mother, also destructive in her own way, Micky’s career goes nowhere, loss after loss giving his self-confidence a battering. After hooking up with waitress Charlene and seeing his brother back in jail, Micky gives the big time one more try ...
At its guts, this film is about family. And Micky’s is quite a bunch. While he prospers without them and tries to shake off the shadow of his brother, in the end family is family. What is refreshing is that everyone in The Fighter makes a sort of personal journey, coming out a better person at the other end. It’s a heart-warming tale, amongst the boxing and drugs and bad 80s hair.
The Fighter certainty has an air of authenticity about it and when you discover the lengths the filmmakers went to to do justice to Ward’s story, it’s easy to understand why. Filmed on location in Lowell, Massachusetts – Ward’s hometown – many of the training scenes were filmed at the real-life facility Ward used in the 1980s. Fights were choreographed with care, using footage of Ward’s bouts. Director Russell used the cameras of the age to film the fights, giving them a very realistic and not overly stylised look. It makes for very good cinema indeed.
This film is packed with great acting performances. But while The Fighter is about Micky, it is the portrayal of Dicky by the ever-excellent Christian Bale that really stands out. Although both Matt Damon and Brad Pitt were, at one time, signed on to play Dicky, I simply cannot imagine anyone but Bale in the role. Showing his commitment to his art, Bale sheds the pounds (although not as many as for The Machinist) to capture Dicky’s harrowed, crack-addicted, scrawny physique. It is clear from the brief look we get at the real-life Dicky during the film’s end credits, that Bale has studied his subject. Bale is deserving of every award for a truly masterly performance. Wahlberg, in a much more subtle role, is also excellent. I’m not a big fan, finding him more often wooden than not. But it is clear that he has much invested in this role, creatively and emotionally. Amy Adams, as Micky’s feisty girlfriend Charlene, and Melissa Leo, as Micky and Dicky’s mother, are both superb – immensely likeable and unlikeable respectively.
This is an absorbing, tumultuous, gut-wrenching movie. Sure, it’s a boxing movie and with that comes the usual clichés and predictable ending flourish. But, much like the other major awards contender The King’s Speech, there will be few dry eyes by the time the credits roll and you will be pleased you were there.
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Micky Ward: I'm the one who's fighting. Not you, not you, and not you.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The King's Speech
Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, Derek Jacobi, Michael Gambon
Dir. Tom Hooper
Scr. David Seidler
The King’s Speech, with its clever play-on-words title, is both an epic and intimate film, possessed of performances that deservedly have Oscar tongues wagging. Historically, it might take a few liberties, but only the most purist film-goer would truly let that ruin what is undoubtedly one of the films of the awards season and the year.
Set over the few years before and the few years after the abdication of King Edward VIII aka David (Guy Pearce), The King’s Speech portrays Bertie’s (aka Prince Albert aka King George VI aka Colin Firth!) struggle with a stammer that has haunted him from an early age. Enter his last hope, unconventional and Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), and a success story is born. Well, it’s not that simple, but that’s the gist. And not only a success story, but an odd and endearing friendship is born between a pupil who is King and a master who is a commoner.
What is drummed home and is important to grasp, is the power of speech at this time in history. The spread of radio into people’s homes was a phenomenon and, as Bertie’s father the King aptly puts it, turned the royal family into actors. Bertie’s ultimate challenge was to not only overcome his stammer, but to find his voice to inspire and reassure his people in a time of unrest and uncertainty.
This entire film really does hinge on the performance of Firth as Bertie and he delivers in a way that we have perhaps never seen before. Praise was heaped upon him for A Single Man last year, but his performance here really does show us what he’s made of – we never forget this man Bertie is royalty, there is no sappy lapse out of true character. Of course we see glimpses of Bertie as a father, a husband, a son, a brother, a friend. But this is about a prince’s and a king’s struggle and Firth nails it. I am a fan, have been since Mr Darcy days of course, but I didn’t quite think he had it in him. I was wrong.
While this is Firth’s show, he has some superb help. Rush is sublime, as always. Not just cocky therapist who thinks he knows it all, but a kind and true friend. Bonham Carter is wonderful as Queen Elizabeth (aka the Queen Mum!) and much of the film’s humour and grace comes from her performance. Pearce also nails the portrayal of Edward VIII which, in this film and most people’s minds I suppose, is a completely unsympathetic interpretation. Some criticism has been levelled at the bit players and their caricature in the film, notably Churchill (played with relish by Timothy Spall). But, really, come on people! I think it would have been stupid for him not to appear, but do we really need character development for such a well known figure? I don’t think so.
At the end, there will be few dry eyes in the cinema. And perhaps we, as an audience, feel manipulated. But I didn’t mind. The King’s Speech is beautiful to watch and a fine addition to both the genre of royal period pieces and buddy movies.
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King George VI: If I am King, where is my power? Can I declare war? Form a government? Levy a tax? No! And yet I am the seat of all authority because they think that when I speak, I speak for them.
Dir. Tom Hooper
Scr. David Seidler
The King’s Speech, with its clever play-on-words title, is both an epic and intimate film, possessed of performances that deservedly have Oscar tongues wagging. Historically, it might take a few liberties, but only the most purist film-goer would truly let that ruin what is undoubtedly one of the films of the awards season and the year.
Set over the few years before and the few years after the abdication of King Edward VIII aka David (Guy Pearce), The King’s Speech portrays Bertie’s (aka Prince Albert aka King George VI aka Colin Firth!) struggle with a stammer that has haunted him from an early age. Enter his last hope, unconventional and Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), and a success story is born. Well, it’s not that simple, but that’s the gist. And not only a success story, but an odd and endearing friendship is born between a pupil who is King and a master who is a commoner.
What is drummed home and is important to grasp, is the power of speech at this time in history. The spread of radio into people’s homes was a phenomenon and, as Bertie’s father the King aptly puts it, turned the royal family into actors. Bertie’s ultimate challenge was to not only overcome his stammer, but to find his voice to inspire and reassure his people in a time of unrest and uncertainty.
This entire film really does hinge on the performance of Firth as Bertie and he delivers in a way that we have perhaps never seen before. Praise was heaped upon him for A Single Man last year, but his performance here really does show us what he’s made of – we never forget this man Bertie is royalty, there is no sappy lapse out of true character. Of course we see glimpses of Bertie as a father, a husband, a son, a brother, a friend. But this is about a prince’s and a king’s struggle and Firth nails it. I am a fan, have been since Mr Darcy days of course, but I didn’t quite think he had it in him. I was wrong.
While this is Firth’s show, he has some superb help. Rush is sublime, as always. Not just cocky therapist who thinks he knows it all, but a kind and true friend. Bonham Carter is wonderful as Queen Elizabeth (aka the Queen Mum!) and much of the film’s humour and grace comes from her performance. Pearce also nails the portrayal of Edward VIII which, in this film and most people’s minds I suppose, is a completely unsympathetic interpretation. Some criticism has been levelled at the bit players and their caricature in the film, notably Churchill (played with relish by Timothy Spall). But, really, come on people! I think it would have been stupid for him not to appear, but do we really need character development for such a well known figure? I don’t think so.
At the end, there will be few dry eyes in the cinema. And perhaps we, as an audience, feel manipulated. But I didn’t mind. The King’s Speech is beautiful to watch and a fine addition to both the genre of royal period pieces and buddy movies.
-------------------------------
King George VI: If I am King, where is my power? Can I declare war? Form a government? Levy a tax? No! And yet I am the seat of all authority because they think that when I speak, I speak for them.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Moment of 2010
Someone, not satisfied I had sweated and toiled and produced my ten best of 2010, asked me what the best moment of 2010 was. Sheesh, what a question! Brilliant. Not scene, not character, not plot twist – moment. A challenge indeed.
Actually, after a quick scan of my 2010 cinematic memory, not such a challenge after all. To evoke a tear, a smile, a chuckle, a shudder, all worthy movie moments. But to make me audibly gasp and physically convulse, then laugh out very loud – that’s a rare and mighty fine moment. And I did that on one occasion that stands out like a flashing neon sign in my mind.
Moment of the year: From the Todd Phillips' movie Due Date, when Peter (played by Robert Downey Jr) spits in the face of Sonny, Ethan’s (Zach Galifianakis) dog.
Shocking, I know. I am an absolute dog lover. But, for that very reason, this moment worked so very well. There is no greater insult to a dog owner than this. Nothing that Peter could say to make Ethan feel as bad and outraged as he does after this terrible act of frustrated aggression.
I feel slightly ashamed. I feel that the moment of 2010 should come from a more noteworthy movie – Due Date wasn’t even in the top ten. In fact, Due Date was a very mixed bag and failed to truly capitalise on the wonderfully mismatched pairing of Downey Jr and Galifianakis. It is not a movie I would recommend to very many – furthermore, I would actively and aggressively advise some not to see it. But, there it is.
Genius.
---------------------------
Peter: Sonny, you will be sorely missed, you little bat-faced piece of s**t!
Actually, after a quick scan of my 2010 cinematic memory, not such a challenge after all. To evoke a tear, a smile, a chuckle, a shudder, all worthy movie moments. But to make me audibly gasp and physically convulse, then laugh out very loud – that’s a rare and mighty fine moment. And I did that on one occasion that stands out like a flashing neon sign in my mind.
Moment of the year: From the Todd Phillips' movie Due Date, when Peter (played by Robert Downey Jr) spits in the face of Sonny, Ethan’s (Zach Galifianakis) dog.
Shocking, I know. I am an absolute dog lover. But, for that very reason, this moment worked so very well. There is no greater insult to a dog owner than this. Nothing that Peter could say to make Ethan feel as bad and outraged as he does after this terrible act of frustrated aggression.
I feel slightly ashamed. I feel that the moment of 2010 should come from a more noteworthy movie – Due Date wasn’t even in the top ten. In fact, Due Date was a very mixed bag and failed to truly capitalise on the wonderfully mismatched pairing of Downey Jr and Galifianakis. It is not a movie I would recommend to very many – furthermore, I would actively and aggressively advise some not to see it. But, there it is.
Genius.
---------------------------
Peter: Sonny, you will be sorely missed, you little bat-faced piece of s**t!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Morning Glory
Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford, Diane Keaton, Patrick Wilson, Jeff Goldblum
Dir. Roger Michell
Scr. Aline Brosh McKenna
Nothing too challenging, a nice light and fluffy piece of cinema to get me back on the reviewing horse. That’s just what I needed and just what I got with my first outing to the cinema in 2011 – Morning Glory is chock full of big name stars and beautiful people, a couple of big laughs and an array of smaller ones, and a feel good buzz when you leave the darkness of the theatre. But that’s really about it.
Morning Glory is a peek into the zany world of morning television. Or maybe it’s a romantic comedy. Or maybe it’s a vehicle for the eternally up-and- coming Rachel McAdams. I’m not sure, and I think this confusion makes for a bitsy movie. McAdams plays Becky Fuller, a television producer whose dream is to work for a big network morning show. She gets her chance on Daybreak – it’s network but it’s an awful, sinking ship of a show, fourth in the ratings and sliding. In an attempt to shake things up, she hires hard-nosed, hard-hitting, multi-award-winning journo Mike Pomeroy (Ford) to co host – think Walter Cronkite (US) or Jeremy Paxman (UK) or …. ummmm …. I don’t think NZ has ever had an example! Let’s just say morning television and Pomeroy don’t mix – he’s a news man, end of story. Added to this sure-fire hilarity (at least that’s what the premise promises) is a romantic entanglement between the work-obsessed Fuller and the dishy Adam Bennett (Wilson). Surely doomed to failure … or is it?
This is a hefty cast, it has to be said. And while they throw their collective clout around with ease, it never quite seems enough. Much hilarity is promised by the mismatched pairing of Daybreak co-hosts Peck (Keaton) and Pomeroy, but we get only a few scant interchanges (some of the best moments in the film). Goldblum (as network bigwig Jerry Barnes) is criminally underused. Ty Burrell (of Modern Family fame) is brilliant but fleeting. Even Wilson, as the romantic lead, graces the screen with his good looks far too infrequently. This leaves us with McAdams and this is clearly her time to shine. Her character, alas, is just too perky, too talkative, too utterly annoying to truly love. I did root for her in the end, to be sure, but it was against my better judgment. McAdams is very hit and miss for me (Sherlock Holmes – bull’s-eye; Time Traveller’s Wife – mammoth miss). I would put her performance in this film in the “miss” category, just.
While the sum of the parts doesn’t add up to a brilliantly funny and zany film, there are moments. And those moments were enough for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Just don’t expect too much.
-------------------------------
Colleen Peck: You happen to be a pretentious, fatuous idiot.
Mike Pomeroy: A fatuous idiot who makes three times what you make.
Dir. Roger Michell
Scr. Aline Brosh McKenna
Nothing too challenging, a nice light and fluffy piece of cinema to get me back on the reviewing horse. That’s just what I needed and just what I got with my first outing to the cinema in 2011 – Morning Glory is chock full of big name stars and beautiful people, a couple of big laughs and an array of smaller ones, and a feel good buzz when you leave the darkness of the theatre. But that’s really about it.
Morning Glory is a peek into the zany world of morning television. Or maybe it’s a romantic comedy. Or maybe it’s a vehicle for the eternally up-and- coming Rachel McAdams. I’m not sure, and I think this confusion makes for a bitsy movie. McAdams plays Becky Fuller, a television producer whose dream is to work for a big network morning show. She gets her chance on Daybreak – it’s network but it’s an awful, sinking ship of a show, fourth in the ratings and sliding. In an attempt to shake things up, she hires hard-nosed, hard-hitting, multi-award-winning journo Mike Pomeroy (Ford) to co host – think Walter Cronkite (US) or Jeremy Paxman (UK) or …. ummmm …. I don’t think NZ has ever had an example! Let’s just say morning television and Pomeroy don’t mix – he’s a news man, end of story. Added to this sure-fire hilarity (at least that’s what the premise promises) is a romantic entanglement between the work-obsessed Fuller and the dishy Adam Bennett (Wilson). Surely doomed to failure … or is it?
This is a hefty cast, it has to be said. And while they throw their collective clout around with ease, it never quite seems enough. Much hilarity is promised by the mismatched pairing of Daybreak co-hosts Peck (Keaton) and Pomeroy, but we get only a few scant interchanges (some of the best moments in the film). Goldblum (as network bigwig Jerry Barnes) is criminally underused. Ty Burrell (of Modern Family fame) is brilliant but fleeting. Even Wilson, as the romantic lead, graces the screen with his good looks far too infrequently. This leaves us with McAdams and this is clearly her time to shine. Her character, alas, is just too perky, too talkative, too utterly annoying to truly love. I did root for her in the end, to be sure, but it was against my better judgment. McAdams is very hit and miss for me (Sherlock Holmes – bull’s-eye; Time Traveller’s Wife – mammoth miss). I would put her performance in this film in the “miss” category, just.
While the sum of the parts doesn’t add up to a brilliantly funny and zany film, there are moments. And those moments were enough for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Just don’t expect too much.
-------------------------------
Colleen Peck: You happen to be a pretentious, fatuous idiot.
Mike Pomeroy: A fatuous idiot who makes three times what you make.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Top Ten of Two Thousand and Ten
My usual excuses … I mean, disclaimers – these are the films I saw at the cinema in 2010. I accept absolutely and utterly no responsibility for movies taking an age to get to New Zealand. 2010 has produced a strong list, with several films vying for film of the year.
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2010 are:
Animal Kingdom – A gritty, raw, disturbing, shocking, emotional Aussie film. Superb acting by the usual suspects (notably Guy Pearce and Ben Mendelson) and a cracker performance by newcomer James Frecheville. A friend of mine tried to convince me that Mike from Neighbours (Pearce playing the cop) was the most evil person in this story. But for my money, it has to be the family matriarch (played by Jacki Weavers) – what a manipulative witch!
Boy – Film of the year contender #1 is a sentimental, parochial choice I have to admit. But I think this New Zealand film would have wide appeal. Boy is both laugh-out-loud funny and heart-wrenchingly sad. Director/writer/star Taika Waititi has given us a simple but emotional story of family and coming-of-age – it is truly a gem of a film.
Crazy Heart – I simply cannot get enough of Jeff Bridges. I toyed with putting Tron in the top ten simply because there is two of him in it! This slow boiler of a film finally saw Bridges rewarded with an Oscar, and deservedly so. He is supported by some stellar performances, but this is all about Bridges – a fantastic turn as a broken down, hard-living country singer looking for redemption. I also recommend the soundtrack for anyone who is a little bit country.
Easy A – A funny, intelligent teenage comedy, the best I’ve seen in some time. Fantastic dialogue, with some truly inspired one-liners, this film owes much to the teenage flicks of the 80s (to which it pays homage). Emma Stone is charming and spunky and carries this movie with flair. Highly enjoyable.
Four Lions – Truly the most inappropriate and hilarious movie of the year, I simply could not leave this Brit flick out. Written and directed by the brilliant Chris Morris, Four Lions is a clever, farcical and surreal black comedy. At times I audibly gasped at the sheer audacity of it all, while I wasn’t laughing out loud at the comedic brilliance. Not for everyone but certainly for this list.
Inception – You think this is going to be film of the year contender #2 don’t you? Well, you’d be wrong. Although my brother will be utterly dismayed this film has made the list at all, I simply couldn’t leave it out – its originality, visual impact and stellar acting has assured its place here. But Inception is not my film of the year. The more you think about this flawed yet entertaining film, the less you like it. And that’s never good.
Nine – I’m a fan of the musical genre, there’s no escaping it. But Nine is not here as a token entry, no sir. Nine is as entertaining a film as you’ll see all year. Please check your over-sensitive feminism at the door and enjoy this wonderfully European tale of love and lust and genius. Unforgettable musical numbers and some amazing performances (notably Marion Cotillard, who is stunning and fast becoming a favourite of mine) combine to make Nine sublime. It’s even caused me to rhyme.
Scott Pilgrim v the World – I simply LOVED this film. I am convinced it was made especially with me in mind, although I have no proof of that. It just pressed so many of my buttons – it’s funny, sweet, goofy, clever, surprising, action packed, weird, with some utterly unforgettable characters and great acting. Michael Cera is a god, no question. And a wonderful turn from the Culkin kid who has talent, Kieran. Would have been film of the year in a lesser field, but certainly contender #2.
The Social Network – I was expecting a lot from this film. With Fincher at the helm and Sorkin wielding the pen, it didn’t disappoint and is easily contender for film of the year #3. Compelling and fast moving, hugely quotable and superbly acted, this is a riveting movie. Sure, it’s about Facebook and the social networking generation and whatnot. But the story is really much more universal than that: it’s ultimately about friendship and betrayal. I didn’t really care whether it was true or not – it was a hell of a yarn.
Toy Story 3 – Is it time for an animated movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars? I dunno. But, if it is, this film truly deserves the honour. A perfectly paced, utterly compelling, surprisingly emotional film, Toy Story 3 is the best of the trilogy and a joy to watch. Film of the year contender #4.
And the highly commended:
Book of Eli – Clever, dark apocalyptic story with great turns by Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman.
Kick Ass – Hilarious and original comic book-inspired movie, with a wee girl who inflicts bodily harm. Twisted and complete fun.
Precious – Easily the most harrowing movie of the year, this is a brilliant film, but one I wouldn’t see again in a hurry.
The Road – Dark and brooding and tragic, with an excellent performance by Viggo Mortensen, this film is a must-see.
The Tourist – A surprising, refreshingly European caper flick.
The Town – A tense, smart and compelling drama, Affleck is maturing as an actor, director and writer. An especially great turn by Jeremy Renner.
Whip It – I now love roller derby. Enough said.
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2010 are:
Animal Kingdom – A gritty, raw, disturbing, shocking, emotional Aussie film. Superb acting by the usual suspects (notably Guy Pearce and Ben Mendelson) and a cracker performance by newcomer James Frecheville. A friend of mine tried to convince me that Mike from Neighbours (Pearce playing the cop) was the most evil person in this story. But for my money, it has to be the family matriarch (played by Jacki Weavers) – what a manipulative witch!
Boy – Film of the year contender #1 is a sentimental, parochial choice I have to admit. But I think this New Zealand film would have wide appeal. Boy is both laugh-out-loud funny and heart-wrenchingly sad. Director/writer/star Taika Waititi has given us a simple but emotional story of family and coming-of-age – it is truly a gem of a film.
Crazy Heart – I simply cannot get enough of Jeff Bridges. I toyed with putting Tron in the top ten simply because there is two of him in it! This slow boiler of a film finally saw Bridges rewarded with an Oscar, and deservedly so. He is supported by some stellar performances, but this is all about Bridges – a fantastic turn as a broken down, hard-living country singer looking for redemption. I also recommend the soundtrack for anyone who is a little bit country.
Easy A – A funny, intelligent teenage comedy, the best I’ve seen in some time. Fantastic dialogue, with some truly inspired one-liners, this film owes much to the teenage flicks of the 80s (to which it pays homage). Emma Stone is charming and spunky and carries this movie with flair. Highly enjoyable.
Four Lions – Truly the most inappropriate and hilarious movie of the year, I simply could not leave this Brit flick out. Written and directed by the brilliant Chris Morris, Four Lions is a clever, farcical and surreal black comedy. At times I audibly gasped at the sheer audacity of it all, while I wasn’t laughing out loud at the comedic brilliance. Not for everyone but certainly for this list.
Inception – You think this is going to be film of the year contender #2 don’t you? Well, you’d be wrong. Although my brother will be utterly dismayed this film has made the list at all, I simply couldn’t leave it out – its originality, visual impact and stellar acting has assured its place here. But Inception is not my film of the year. The more you think about this flawed yet entertaining film, the less you like it. And that’s never good.
Nine – I’m a fan of the musical genre, there’s no escaping it. But Nine is not here as a token entry, no sir. Nine is as entertaining a film as you’ll see all year. Please check your over-sensitive feminism at the door and enjoy this wonderfully European tale of love and lust and genius. Unforgettable musical numbers and some amazing performances (notably Marion Cotillard, who is stunning and fast becoming a favourite of mine) combine to make Nine sublime. It’s even caused me to rhyme.
Scott Pilgrim v the World – I simply LOVED this film. I am convinced it was made especially with me in mind, although I have no proof of that. It just pressed so many of my buttons – it’s funny, sweet, goofy, clever, surprising, action packed, weird, with some utterly unforgettable characters and great acting. Michael Cera is a god, no question. And a wonderful turn from the Culkin kid who has talent, Kieran. Would have been film of the year in a lesser field, but certainly contender #2.
The Social Network – I was expecting a lot from this film. With Fincher at the helm and Sorkin wielding the pen, it didn’t disappoint and is easily contender for film of the year #3. Compelling and fast moving, hugely quotable and superbly acted, this is a riveting movie. Sure, it’s about Facebook and the social networking generation and whatnot. But the story is really much more universal than that: it’s ultimately about friendship and betrayal. I didn’t really care whether it was true or not – it was a hell of a yarn.
Toy Story 3 – Is it time for an animated movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars? I dunno. But, if it is, this film truly deserves the honour. A perfectly paced, utterly compelling, surprisingly emotional film, Toy Story 3 is the best of the trilogy and a joy to watch. Film of the year contender #4.
And the highly commended:
Book of Eli – Clever, dark apocalyptic story with great turns by Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman.
Kick Ass – Hilarious and original comic book-inspired movie, with a wee girl who inflicts bodily harm. Twisted and complete fun.
Precious – Easily the most harrowing movie of the year, this is a brilliant film, but one I wouldn’t see again in a hurry.
The Road – Dark and brooding and tragic, with an excellent performance by Viggo Mortensen, this film is a must-see.
The Tourist – A surprising, refreshingly European caper flick.
The Town – A tense, smart and compelling drama, Affleck is maturing as an actor, director and writer. An especially great turn by Jeremy Renner.
Whip It – I now love roller derby. Enough said.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Top Ten of 2009
My usual disclaimers – these are films I saw at the cinema in 2009. Which, again, wasn’t as many as usual (I blame climate change). And I accept no responsibility for movies taking forever to get to New Zealand … No absolutely clear winner this year, but some fine films indeed.
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2009 are:
Avatar – Yes, it was predictable and preachy, with two dimensional characters. But in 3D, wowsers, it was something else. Cameron has created an amazing visual feast – an incredibly detailed vision that is indeed a joy to watch.
Dean Spanley - The most delightful film of 2009, no question. Strange and superbly acted, a touching tale of a father and son. And some weird Kiwi bloke who thinks he's a dog.
District 9 – Despite the almost unbearable motion sickness during the first half (I actually had to excuse myself at one point), I adored this film. So striking and surprising and fresh. With a brilliant performance by newcomer Sharlto Copley as everyman Wikus. Fingers crossed 2010 brings us another such cinematic treat.
The Escapist – One of those films I saw because there wasn’t much else on, and, boy, was I glad I did. A gritty, compelling and immensely enjoyable prison movie. With a wonderful turn from Brian Cox.
Gran Torino – My film of 2009? Hmmm, perhaps. An amazing performance by Clint – I’m not the biggest fan of his acting, but this film changed that. Surprisingly sweet and funny for a movie about a racist bigot.
Moon – I hope this movie finally proves that Sam Rockwell is a god. Personally, I have known since Lawn Dogs … A pleasingly claustrophobic, tense and compelling film. A throw-back to the classical sci-fi era, this film is a must see for fans of films in space.
Revolutionary Road – Surprisingly, especially to me, I loved this film. And I like surprises. Great performances by Winslet and DiCaprio. Tragic, funny, sexy, sad. Watching this self-indulgent couple’s relationship turn train-wreck was incredibly compelling.
A Serious Man – Can a year go by without a Coen brother’s film in my top ten? Unlikely. There is a lot going on in this film, much of which I fear was lost on a gentile like myself. But I really didn’t mind. This is a wonderful black comedy, with a stunning turn by Michael Stuhlbarg in the lead role. Sublime stuff.
Wolverine – Yeah baby! In a year distinctly lacking great action films, this big budget feast was a welcome treat. Is my love of the film based largely on Hugh Jackman’s physique? Maybe – so, sue me. An utterly entertaining watch, I hope to see more of Wolverine in 2010.
Zombieland – Hands down, the most absolutely and utterly fun movie of the year. Great one-liners, wonderful tricks with graphics, a surprising amount of heart. And, without question, the greatest cameo of the year. It’s kinda gory, so not everyone’s cup of tea. But if zombies and laughs are your thing, you wouldn't have found a better Friday-night-flick in 2009.
And highly commended: Julie & Julia (half of a very good film indeed with a stellar performance by Meryl Streep; pity it couldn’t have just been Julia), The Informant! (possessed of the most unlikeable lead of 2009 – a great turn from Matt Damon), Milk (Sean Penn at his best in years and an interesting history lesson of a film), The Reader (I loved how morally challenging this film was – a thinker), Star Trek (it didn’t disappoint, which it could so easily have done – a fun and entertaining film), Sherlock Holmes (utterly entertaining with Downey at his charismatic best).
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2009 are:
Avatar – Yes, it was predictable and preachy, with two dimensional characters. But in 3D, wowsers, it was something else. Cameron has created an amazing visual feast – an incredibly detailed vision that is indeed a joy to watch.
Dean Spanley - The most delightful film of 2009, no question. Strange and superbly acted, a touching tale of a father and son. And some weird Kiwi bloke who thinks he's a dog.
District 9 – Despite the almost unbearable motion sickness during the first half (I actually had to excuse myself at one point), I adored this film. So striking and surprising and fresh. With a brilliant performance by newcomer Sharlto Copley as everyman Wikus. Fingers crossed 2010 brings us another such cinematic treat.
The Escapist – One of those films I saw because there wasn’t much else on, and, boy, was I glad I did. A gritty, compelling and immensely enjoyable prison movie. With a wonderful turn from Brian Cox.
Gran Torino – My film of 2009? Hmmm, perhaps. An amazing performance by Clint – I’m not the biggest fan of his acting, but this film changed that. Surprisingly sweet and funny for a movie about a racist bigot.
Moon – I hope this movie finally proves that Sam Rockwell is a god. Personally, I have known since Lawn Dogs … A pleasingly claustrophobic, tense and compelling film. A throw-back to the classical sci-fi era, this film is a must see for fans of films in space.
Revolutionary Road – Surprisingly, especially to me, I loved this film. And I like surprises. Great performances by Winslet and DiCaprio. Tragic, funny, sexy, sad. Watching this self-indulgent couple’s relationship turn train-wreck was incredibly compelling.
A Serious Man – Can a year go by without a Coen brother’s film in my top ten? Unlikely. There is a lot going on in this film, much of which I fear was lost on a gentile like myself. But I really didn’t mind. This is a wonderful black comedy, with a stunning turn by Michael Stuhlbarg in the lead role. Sublime stuff.
Wolverine – Yeah baby! In a year distinctly lacking great action films, this big budget feast was a welcome treat. Is my love of the film based largely on Hugh Jackman’s physique? Maybe – so, sue me. An utterly entertaining watch, I hope to see more of Wolverine in 2010.
Zombieland – Hands down, the most absolutely and utterly fun movie of the year. Great one-liners, wonderful tricks with graphics, a surprising amount of heart. And, without question, the greatest cameo of the year. It’s kinda gory, so not everyone’s cup of tea. But if zombies and laughs are your thing, you wouldn't have found a better Friday-night-flick in 2009.
And highly commended: Julie & Julia (half of a very good film indeed with a stellar performance by Meryl Streep; pity it couldn’t have just been Julia), The Informant! (possessed of the most unlikeable lead of 2009 – a great turn from Matt Damon), Milk (Sean Penn at his best in years and an interesting history lesson of a film), The Reader (I loved how morally challenging this film was – a thinker), Star Trek (it didn’t disappoint, which it could so easily have done – a fun and entertaining film), Sherlock Holmes (utterly entertaining with Downey at his charismatic best).
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Top Ten of 2008
Disclaimers as usual – these are films I saw at the cinema in 2008. Which, disappointingly, wasn’t as many as usual (I blame politics and the recession). I accept no blame for movies taking forever to get to New Zealand …
And apologies for the lack of blogging activity in late 2008. I will endeavour to do better.
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2008 are:
The Counterfeiters – A compelling, wonderfully acted, not-your-usual-prison-camp film. Cock full of the type of moral dilemmas we hope we never have to face. A worthy Oscar winner.
Dark Knight – Some of you will cry foul at this choice, but I thoroughly enjoyed the latest Batman outing. Loved it’s darkness, it’s creepiness, it’s violence. As good as Batman Begins, if not slightly more entertaining. And, I hate to go along with the crowd, but Heath was truly wonderful.
Frost/Nixon – Some of the best acting you’ll see in a long time, this is a wonderful film. The two leads simply become their roles. A stellar supporting cast in a compelling tale.
In Bruges – Without a doubt the funniest movie of 2008. This black comedy was wonderfully surprising and violent and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Colin Farrell continues to impress me in these off-beat roles.
Iron Man – Absolutely and utterly entertaining. I unashamedly loved this film, in large part due to its brilliant leading man. An on-form Robert Downey Jr is a thrill to watch.
Juno - A supersmart and witty jem of a film. Great acting all round, with especially good turns from Jason Bateman and Allison Janney. And, hands down, the best soundtrack of 2008.
Lars and the Real Girl – An odd and endearing film which, thankfully, avoided the obvious crassness that might have gone along with the subject matter. It’s smart and witty and definitely corny. A delight.
Michael Clayton – The best thriller of 2008, this film is quality, quality, quality. George showing once again that he will be remembered as the James Stewart of his generation. It’s slow burning, it’s intriguing and it’s jolly well acted.
No Country for Old Men – I have talked to several people who walked out of this film. WTF?!? An absolutely brilliant turn from the Coen Brothers. A killer script, with some terrific acting, and as creepy as they come. A strong contender for the top film of 2008.
There Will Be Blood – I have only come across about three people who have seen this film. And while it’s a particularly dark movie which perhaps is not everyone’s cup of tea, I think it’s a crying shame it didn’t get a bigger audience. For me, it was the best film of 2008 – there, I said it. Now, for goodness sake, see it!
Notable mentions: Shine a Light (fantastically filmed & wonderfully intimate), Tropic Thunder (some truly memorable and hilarious moments; Downey Jr was a joy to watch), Wall-E (incredibly cute and beautifully animated), Quantum of Solace (it wasn’t Casino Royale, but it continues to take Bond away from cheese & cliché and places him squarely in high action genre), Burn After Reading (it disappointed many, but I really enjoyed this quirky and surprising Coen Brothers film), Mamma Mia (not quite the musical triumph that was 2007's Hairspray, but a whole lot of fun nonetheless)
Worst of 2008: The Happening (what has happened to the M Night Shyamalan?!?)
And apologies for the lack of blogging activity in late 2008. I will endeavour to do better.
In alphabetical order, my top ten of 2008 are:
The Counterfeiters – A compelling, wonderfully acted, not-your-usual-prison-camp film. Cock full of the type of moral dilemmas we hope we never have to face. A worthy Oscar winner.
Dark Knight – Some of you will cry foul at this choice, but I thoroughly enjoyed the latest Batman outing. Loved it’s darkness, it’s creepiness, it’s violence. As good as Batman Begins, if not slightly more entertaining. And, I hate to go along with the crowd, but Heath was truly wonderful.
Frost/Nixon – Some of the best acting you’ll see in a long time, this is a wonderful film. The two leads simply become their roles. A stellar supporting cast in a compelling tale.
In Bruges – Without a doubt the funniest movie of 2008. This black comedy was wonderfully surprising and violent and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Colin Farrell continues to impress me in these off-beat roles.
Iron Man – Absolutely and utterly entertaining. I unashamedly loved this film, in large part due to its brilliant leading man. An on-form Robert Downey Jr is a thrill to watch.
Juno - A supersmart and witty jem of a film. Great acting all round, with especially good turns from Jason Bateman and Allison Janney. And, hands down, the best soundtrack of 2008.
Lars and the Real Girl – An odd and endearing film which, thankfully, avoided the obvious crassness that might have gone along with the subject matter. It’s smart and witty and definitely corny. A delight.
Michael Clayton – The best thriller of 2008, this film is quality, quality, quality. George showing once again that he will be remembered as the James Stewart of his generation. It’s slow burning, it’s intriguing and it’s jolly well acted.
No Country for Old Men – I have talked to several people who walked out of this film. WTF?!? An absolutely brilliant turn from the Coen Brothers. A killer script, with some terrific acting, and as creepy as they come. A strong contender for the top film of 2008.
There Will Be Blood – I have only come across about three people who have seen this film. And while it’s a particularly dark movie which perhaps is not everyone’s cup of tea, I think it’s a crying shame it didn’t get a bigger audience. For me, it was the best film of 2008 – there, I said it. Now, for goodness sake, see it!
Notable mentions: Shine a Light (fantastically filmed & wonderfully intimate), Tropic Thunder (some truly memorable and hilarious moments; Downey Jr was a joy to watch), Wall-E (incredibly cute and beautifully animated), Quantum of Solace (it wasn’t Casino Royale, but it continues to take Bond away from cheese & cliché and places him squarely in high action genre), Burn After Reading (it disappointed many, but I really enjoyed this quirky and surprising Coen Brothers film), Mamma Mia (not quite the musical triumph that was 2007's Hairspray, but a whole lot of fun nonetheless)
Worst of 2008: The Happening (what has happened to the M Night Shyamalan?!?)
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