The first look at this title 3 Days to Kill and the image they portrayed I did not think it was something I wanted to see, after all, I'm a little tired of all the guns and the needless killing shows out there. But Sunday afternoon came with nothing really to do, so off I trot through the snow falling to see 3 Days to Kill.
What a surprise. There was a part of me that thought this might be misnamed and I think I was right, but I'm not sure what I would have called it. Yes, there was killing, but it was FUNNY. I laughed so much through this movie, between people being shot dead, which in itself, shame to say was also funny for the most part.
Some scenes are not pleasant to look at, but so many were. The Writer Adi Hasak (and others) did a great job of catching the comedic relief to the tension. The idea of this man who is dying spending time with his daughter, who is in total teenage rebellion, and who actually says to him "We have 3 days to Kill". And kill it they do.
Yes people die, but by killing the bad guys the good guy, Kevin Costner does super great as the old, dried up CIA agent who is dying is given an experimental drug and is saved. Hailee Steinfeld does great as the teenage daughter, who Ethan, Kevin Costner's character has not seen since she was little. She's mad, she's hurt, she's a 'teenager'. Connie Nielsen plays Ethan's wife (they are not divorced) but its Amber Heard as Vivi the person who hires him to get the really bad guy who has nuclear weapons in a suitcase no less who is dramatic. This movie is well casted. I never once thought, wrong person for this part, even right down to the smallest role.
I love plot twists, especially when I figure them out before hand, and I figured this one out. Yes I knew they were all going to end up at the 'party' at the end and the resulting 'get the bad guy' ending.
No matter if there were killings, no matter what...chasing on a purple girls bicycle. I laughed. The juxtaposition of daughter vs the job was well written, well executed and everyone laughed. To see a different type of killing movie, then this is it. 3 Days to Kill is enjoyable - surprisingly.
3 out of 5.
Showing posts with label Norma Cowie movie review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Norma Cowie movie review. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Pompeii - movie review
I wanted to see Pompeii for a couple of reasons, one was it was filmed in Canada and had a lot of Canadian Actors. Kiefer Sutherland and Carrie-Anne Moss to name two. It is not often you go see a movie knowing everyone dies, and honestly I was interested in seeing how it was handled and how it would be done.
I enjoyed it. The writers, Janet Scott Batchler (and others) did a great job in weaving the historical event into a love story contaminated with greed and power of the times. I loved the short history lesson of how the Romans in Britain destroyed villages etc. Watching the scene at the beginning of the movie when the main character Milo's father gets killed, and I had the thought 'power corrupts', as the Roman in charge, Kiefer Sutherland's character, Corvus, who of course shows up later as an adversary - still in charge, still in power. The first scenes really set the stage, how this young lad Milo escapes the massacre and becomes a slave and later a gladiator.
As a great gladiator he is taken from London, England, to Pompeii, Italy. I loved watching the map unfold as they show is journey through the countries. I think I do love looking at old maps, and noticing how the boundary lines of these countries are nothing like they are today, and wondering what they will look like 100 years from now.
Anyhow, Milo gets to help a lady, Cassia played by Emily Browning, with her horse. And the love story between the slave gladiator and the lady begins. Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as the fellow slave gladiator Atticus who was to fight for his freedom and becomes Milo's friend plays an important role in the story too.
Mainly this is a love story (yes I shed a few tears at the end) which is going to end in disaster as the volcano erupts and Milo struggles to help save Cassia with the help of Atticus. I think it is well done, not the greatest ever, but worth seeing. Those times were hard on the poor, the slaves, as the powerful had power. The higher in rank the more power you had. It reminds that a mean person, whether rich or poor is still a mean person, while a gentle, loving person is a gentle loving person whether rich or poor. We must always remember that and not brand people because they are in a powerful or not powerful position.
Thinking back what did I like the best, truly how the fighting combination of Atticus and Milo bet out the Roman soldiers. How I respond when the underdog beats the odds. But, the heart strings at the love story was wonderful and made the story believable and workable. The last scenes were definitely well done. This movie combined technology and realism very well.
3 1/4 out of 5. (Don't think I've ever given a 3 1/4 before).
I enjoyed it. The writers, Janet Scott Batchler (and others) did a great job in weaving the historical event into a love story contaminated with greed and power of the times. I loved the short history lesson of how the Romans in Britain destroyed villages etc. Watching the scene at the beginning of the movie when the main character Milo's father gets killed, and I had the thought 'power corrupts', as the Roman in charge, Kiefer Sutherland's character, Corvus, who of course shows up later as an adversary - still in charge, still in power. The first scenes really set the stage, how this young lad Milo escapes the massacre and becomes a slave and later a gladiator.
As a great gladiator he is taken from London, England, to Pompeii, Italy. I loved watching the map unfold as they show is journey through the countries. I think I do love looking at old maps, and noticing how the boundary lines of these countries are nothing like they are today, and wondering what they will look like 100 years from now.
Anyhow, Milo gets to help a lady, Cassia played by Emily Browning, with her horse. And the love story between the slave gladiator and the lady begins. Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as the fellow slave gladiator Atticus who was to fight for his freedom and becomes Milo's friend plays an important role in the story too.
Mainly this is a love story (yes I shed a few tears at the end) which is going to end in disaster as the volcano erupts and Milo struggles to help save Cassia with the help of Atticus. I think it is well done, not the greatest ever, but worth seeing. Those times were hard on the poor, the slaves, as the powerful had power. The higher in rank the more power you had. It reminds that a mean person, whether rich or poor is still a mean person, while a gentle, loving person is a gentle loving person whether rich or poor. We must always remember that and not brand people because they are in a powerful or not powerful position.
Thinking back what did I like the best, truly how the fighting combination of Atticus and Milo bet out the Roman soldiers. How I respond when the underdog beats the odds. But, the heart strings at the love story was wonderful and made the story believable and workable. The last scenes were definitely well done. This movie combined technology and realism very well.
3 1/4 out of 5. (Don't think I've ever given a 3 1/4 before).
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
2 Guns Movie Review
I thoroughly enjoyed 2 Guns with Densel Washington and Mark Walberg. I found myself laughing and enjoying the antics of these two great actors, obviously having fun.
These two 'bank robbers' who discover they are both agents of different forces who are being pursued by the CIA, drug runners and the pursuit and antics which follow is done in a humorous way. You will recognize several of the support players, and that was also fun, saying oh look whose playing this role. Won't tell you, because that's the fun of going to see it.
This is not a movie to go see if you want intellectual though, or some great concept. But, if you want to spend a couple of hours entertained by the antics of two actors having fun, then this is it.
I really don't have much to say about it.
3 out of 5.
These two 'bank robbers' who discover they are both agents of different forces who are being pursued by the CIA, drug runners and the pursuit and antics which follow is done in a humorous way. You will recognize several of the support players, and that was also fun, saying oh look whose playing this role. Won't tell you, because that's the fun of going to see it.
This is not a movie to go see if you want intellectual though, or some great concept. But, if you want to spend a couple of hours entertained by the antics of two actors having fun, then this is it.
I really don't have much to say about it.
3 out of 5.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
The Lone Ranger movie review
I did not realize that The Lone Ranger was going to be funny until I was sitting there watching. Johnny Depp in a different incarnation as Tonto, but still managing to get the lines delivered with the same facial expression (except his eyes) the whole way through.
I was not over enthusiastic about seeing this movie, but there was no other that I wanted to see last night, so after a lovely Steak and Salad dinner, off my movie friend Trish and go. Within the first five minutes I was glad I was there. Armie Hammer, as the righteous about legalities and justice fits the bill, as he slowly realizes the wild west is still wild and justice is a different thing. The show definitely goes to Johnny Depp though, with his white and black face, although the white horse - Silver - is really good and such a comic.
Johnny Depp as Tonto tells the story of how he and The Lone Ranger meet and what follows as they go from one 'screw up' to another, yet some how in the end - they win! Heigh Ho Silver.
The cast support with William Fichtner as the bad guy (a really bad guy) Tom Wilkinson as his bad big shot partner, and Helena Bonham Carter doing her usual great work as the 'madam'.
If you want to laugh (not as much as The Heat) but laugh, and have an enjoyable few hours, except when the Gatling gun comes out against the Comanches. I hate those Gatling guns in movies and seeing how they just mowed everyone down. Other than that, it was funny, cute and oh yes, the good guys win and The Lone Ranger is born.
3 out of 5.
PS. I recently have seen William Fichtner in a new TV show called Crossing Lines. I have enjoyed it and that's how I recognized him, after only seeing him for two week. Keep you eye out for the TV Show Crossing Lines. If you like adventure, solving crimes (with an international twist) then this is well done. Interesting characters in it.
PPS. I had to look up Harmie Hammer, his face was not familiar to me. He's done quite a bit of work in both TV and Movies, but, most of the movies I have not seen, and if I did, I did not recognize him.
PPPS. Johnny Depp surprised me how well he did this role.
I was not over enthusiastic about seeing this movie, but there was no other that I wanted to see last night, so after a lovely Steak and Salad dinner, off my movie friend Trish and go. Within the first five minutes I was glad I was there. Armie Hammer, as the righteous about legalities and justice fits the bill, as he slowly realizes the wild west is still wild and justice is a different thing. The show definitely goes to Johnny Depp though, with his white and black face, although the white horse - Silver - is really good and such a comic.
Johnny Depp as Tonto tells the story of how he and The Lone Ranger meet and what follows as they go from one 'screw up' to another, yet some how in the end - they win! Heigh Ho Silver.
The cast support with William Fichtner as the bad guy (a really bad guy) Tom Wilkinson as his bad big shot partner, and Helena Bonham Carter doing her usual great work as the 'madam'.
If you want to laugh (not as much as The Heat) but laugh, and have an enjoyable few hours, except when the Gatling gun comes out against the Comanches. I hate those Gatling guns in movies and seeing how they just mowed everyone down. Other than that, it was funny, cute and oh yes, the good guys win and The Lone Ranger is born.
3 out of 5.
PS. I recently have seen William Fichtner in a new TV show called Crossing Lines. I have enjoyed it and that's how I recognized him, after only seeing him for two week. Keep you eye out for the TV Show Crossing Lines. If you like adventure, solving crimes (with an international twist) then this is well done. Interesting characters in it.
PPS. I had to look up Harmie Hammer, his face was not familiar to me. He's done quite a bit of work in both TV and Movies, but, most of the movies I have not seen, and if I did, I did not recognize him.
PPPS. Johnny Depp surprised me how well he did this role.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
World War Z movie review
After watching the trailers and discovering World War Z was a movie about Zombies, I had decided not to go see this movie. I found the scenes in the trailers disturbing and I'm not interested in Zombies. Therefore, when the weather changed yesterday and I did not quite know what to do with myself, I decided to go see World War Z. I'm glad I did.
Sometimes, as with After Earth, a statement made during the movie, makes it worth while, and the same with this one. Brad Pitt, was behind this movie, he coproduced and starred in it. Apparently, the love of Zombies by his boys was the motivator. The statement, that came quite early in the movie was about the way Mother Earth shows the way to solve these viruses or whatever else that gets thrown at us. A bright thought, amongst a growing thought form of world dissemination.
Another reason why I did not want to go and see this movie, was that the scenes I had seen in the trailers disturbed me, when seen in context of the movie were not so bad, in fact, explained a lot of what was happening. It was an interesting theme. As I'm not interested in Zombies, I most certainly had not read the book, and not listened or read anything about the movie. I was an open book to the theme. Brad Pitt, a retired UN worker, who had been in many situations is called upon to help find the original source of this 'virus' which was creating these zombies. When a Zombie bit you, you had 13 seconds before you transformed into one.
Brad Pitt's character Gerry Lane leaves his family, wife played by Mireille Enos from the TV show The Killing, and his two daughters plus a boy, who had joined them, on a boat while he goes off to find how to 'cure' this Zombie outbreak. He is running out of time, as countries fall to the Zombie phenomena.
If you want an adrenal rush this is the movie. Wow, I was aware I was tense, especially when you realize noise is a factor which attracts them. I was also in awe of the large overhead shots of numerous people's running, pushing, shoving. I wondered if it was computer generated or real. They were impressive whichever way they were done. Also the scenes of the zombies rushing towards the car, plane or high wall, again adrenal pumping. Well done make up department and director. World War Z is something Brad Pitt can be proud of. He achieved an action, intense, movie while discovering how to overcome Zombies.
The comments Brad Pitt makes at the end of the movie, were also worth hearing. Thoughtful comments for us to think about. Unfortunately, I found them not easy to hear, and I wanted to hear them. I'm not prepared to go and see the movie again just to find out exactly how the words went, but those that I caught, were worthwhile hearing. So when at the movie, listen hard at the end for the thoughtful thoughts.
I also want to make a comment, after reading Dan Brown's Inferno where the thought of wiping out the population by 1/3 at least is prominent, and now this movie about Zombie's taking over and again in essence wiping us out, I cant help but think this 'thought form' of something coming to decimate our population is growing. Aware that books and movies take a number of years of write and make this thought form is growing. Awareness is important, as collective consciousness of thought is what drives a society, and acceptance of a 'virus' taking out many of us to 'cull' us because of over population has been growing. Just be aware, both Dan Brown's book, and this movie are a part of this thought form.
World War Z 3 1/2 out of 5.
Sometimes, as with After Earth, a statement made during the movie, makes it worth while, and the same with this one. Brad Pitt, was behind this movie, he coproduced and starred in it. Apparently, the love of Zombies by his boys was the motivator. The statement, that came quite early in the movie was about the way Mother Earth shows the way to solve these viruses or whatever else that gets thrown at us. A bright thought, amongst a growing thought form of world dissemination.
Another reason why I did not want to go and see this movie, was that the scenes I had seen in the trailers disturbed me, when seen in context of the movie were not so bad, in fact, explained a lot of what was happening. It was an interesting theme. As I'm not interested in Zombies, I most certainly had not read the book, and not listened or read anything about the movie. I was an open book to the theme. Brad Pitt, a retired UN worker, who had been in many situations is called upon to help find the original source of this 'virus' which was creating these zombies. When a Zombie bit you, you had 13 seconds before you transformed into one.
Brad Pitt's character Gerry Lane leaves his family, wife played by Mireille Enos from the TV show The Killing, and his two daughters plus a boy, who had joined them, on a boat while he goes off to find how to 'cure' this Zombie outbreak. He is running out of time, as countries fall to the Zombie phenomena.
If you want an adrenal rush this is the movie. Wow, I was aware I was tense, especially when you realize noise is a factor which attracts them. I was also in awe of the large overhead shots of numerous people's running, pushing, shoving. I wondered if it was computer generated or real. They were impressive whichever way they were done. Also the scenes of the zombies rushing towards the car, plane or high wall, again adrenal pumping. Well done make up department and director. World War Z is something Brad Pitt can be proud of. He achieved an action, intense, movie while discovering how to overcome Zombies.
The comments Brad Pitt makes at the end of the movie, were also worth hearing. Thoughtful comments for us to think about. Unfortunately, I found them not easy to hear, and I wanted to hear them. I'm not prepared to go and see the movie again just to find out exactly how the words went, but those that I caught, were worthwhile hearing. So when at the movie, listen hard at the end for the thoughtful thoughts.
I also want to make a comment, after reading Dan Brown's Inferno where the thought of wiping out the population by 1/3 at least is prominent, and now this movie about Zombie's taking over and again in essence wiping us out, I cant help but think this 'thought form' of something coming to decimate our population is growing. Aware that books and movies take a number of years of write and make this thought form is growing. Awareness is important, as collective consciousness of thought is what drives a society, and acceptance of a 'virus' taking out many of us to 'cull' us because of over population has been growing. Just be aware, both Dan Brown's book, and this movie are a part of this thought form.
World War Z 3 1/2 out of 5.
The Heat Movie Review
What a combination of Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy in The Heat. Sandra Bullock at her best as the uptight FBI agent and Melissa McCathy as the foul-mouthed, hard edged policewoman. If you want to laugh, and can over look the language then this is the movie for you. I don't think I have laughed so much for a long time. Now, I admit I'm a situational comedy person, and do not like other comedy, once get used to Melissa McCathy's character, then it is hilarious.
The journey these two individuals take, as they partner on a case, applying The Heat, is what makes this funny. As the uptight Bullock unwinds some, and the hard edged McCarthy becomes more soft is what makes this movie work. The bar scene is phenomenally funny. Also, the family dinner scene, reminded me of some scenes I experienced myself occasionally with family dinners (everyone talking over each other - no one listening). Mind you we did not use the language or the put downs that go on in this movie.
I also have to give a shout out to the handsome Marlon Wayans. I did not realize how good looking he is. I want to see more of him for sure (my old age fantasies coming out -- but heh, he looked gooood!)
Yes, this is a movie you go to laugh, not for much else except the bad guys get it, some others die on the way and the 'good ones' come out on top.
I have to mention, I had two very young boys sitting beside me. I would say they would have been six and eight thereabouts. The topic, never mind the language, so often sexual in reference I found I was uncomfortable for them. The younger one laughed at the slap stick stuff, the older one I felt was lost trying to figure everything out. This is an adult movie, not for little kids. Why don't parents check these things out and just because its a comedy doesn't mean it is for little kids. (Especially when Monsters University was also on in another theatre).
Therefore, to laugh and enjoy go see The Heat!
4 out of 5.
The journey these two individuals take, as they partner on a case, applying The Heat, is what makes this funny. As the uptight Bullock unwinds some, and the hard edged McCarthy becomes more soft is what makes this movie work. The bar scene is phenomenally funny. Also, the family dinner scene, reminded me of some scenes I experienced myself occasionally with family dinners (everyone talking over each other - no one listening). Mind you we did not use the language or the put downs that go on in this movie.
I also have to give a shout out to the handsome Marlon Wayans. I did not realize how good looking he is. I want to see more of him for sure (my old age fantasies coming out -- but heh, he looked gooood!)
Yes, this is a movie you go to laugh, not for much else except the bad guys get it, some others die on the way and the 'good ones' come out on top.
I have to mention, I had two very young boys sitting beside me. I would say they would have been six and eight thereabouts. The topic, never mind the language, so often sexual in reference I found I was uncomfortable for them. The younger one laughed at the slap stick stuff, the older one I felt was lost trying to figure everything out. This is an adult movie, not for little kids. Why don't parents check these things out and just because its a comedy doesn't mean it is for little kids. (Especially when Monsters University was also on in another theatre).
Therefore, to laugh and enjoy go see The Heat!
4 out of 5.
White House Down Movie Review
I admit I'm a Channing Tatum fan. I also admit I had a lot of criticism on the 'other White House' movie 'Olympus Has Fallen'. So I was a little bit hesitant going to see Channing Tatum along with Jamie Foxx, and Maggie Gyllenhaal in White House Down. I did not want to have to sit through another take down the White House movie which had me thinking of all sorts of other things.
I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED - IT WAS GOOD!
This movie was about an insider, a close to the president insider, upset and wanting revenge. Its an unlikely theme, but doable, therefore, it made it more real. I found the acting great, I found the theme acceptable, I found the comic relief wonderful. Some of the lines which Tatum and Fox exchanged were great. When you are tense from the action, there is nothing like a line being delivered which breaks the tension, before adding more. Maggie Gyllenhaal, did her usual great job. She has become a wonderful character actress and I predict a long career for her as she gets better and better. Jamie Fox carried off his role with his usual ease, but for me Channing Tatum was the 'star', he had the larger role, and he did it wonderfully, I read where he did most of his stunts, good on him, as some of them were difficult.
The only thing....when someone is shooting an automatic at you, why do directors believe that we don't know the hero would be hit. I found in this movie too many times automatic fire was all around our hero, and he was only grazed once. Come on!! But, unfortunately, that is a truth of action movies, and it does give the wrong impression to our impressionable youth. Bullets don't get you if you are fast. Oh yes they do, especially when the person shooting knows how to shoot. Movies are different than real life and flying bullets can hit you. Oh well, that rant is over. Back to the movie.
Want to see a movie which is entertaining and enjoyable in the action genre, then I think movie holds up well. If you are a Channing Tatum fan like me, then you will love this movie.
4 out of 5.
I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED - IT WAS GOOD!
This movie was about an insider, a close to the president insider, upset and wanting revenge. Its an unlikely theme, but doable, therefore, it made it more real. I found the acting great, I found the theme acceptable, I found the comic relief wonderful. Some of the lines which Tatum and Fox exchanged were great. When you are tense from the action, there is nothing like a line being delivered which breaks the tension, before adding more. Maggie Gyllenhaal, did her usual great job. She has become a wonderful character actress and I predict a long career for her as she gets better and better. Jamie Fox carried off his role with his usual ease, but for me Channing Tatum was the 'star', he had the larger role, and he did it wonderfully, I read where he did most of his stunts, good on him, as some of them were difficult.
The only thing....when someone is shooting an automatic at you, why do directors believe that we don't know the hero would be hit. I found in this movie too many times automatic fire was all around our hero, and he was only grazed once. Come on!! But, unfortunately, that is a truth of action movies, and it does give the wrong impression to our impressionable youth. Bullets don't get you if you are fast. Oh yes they do, especially when the person shooting knows how to shoot. Movies are different than real life and flying bullets can hit you. Oh well, that rant is over. Back to the movie.
Want to see a movie which is entertaining and enjoyable in the action genre, then I think movie holds up well. If you are a Channing Tatum fan like me, then you will love this movie.
4 out of 5.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
After Earth movie review
I was not sure I wanted to see After Earth. Watching the previews with these large animals wanting to 'kill' humans I knew I would be frightened etc. But, go see it I did and although I covered my eyes in certain scenes, and definitely had adrenalin racing through my veins, I was glad to see it mostly because of the discourse that Will Smith, who is listed as writing this movie, gives on FEAR!! It's brilliant and worth seeing just for that as he teaches his son, Kitai played by his real life son Jaden about how not to exhibit fear. A lesson which gets learned by the end of the movie. They way Will explains fear is exactly how I teach it, but delivered so well.
Their spaceship is wrecked on earth, a place where humans no longer live, but animals who hunt them do. Cypher, Will Smith is injured so his young teenage son has to travel 100 miles over rough terrain with very variable day/night temperatures to get a beacon from the other part of the space ship. The adventures he goes through is what the story is mainly about, with flashbacks to the death of his sister to aid the impact of the story. Young Jaden Smith, carries this movie and considering his age he does an incredible job. Will Smith's job as being the commander/father and learning about his son, who is strong minded and trying to impress him is truly a supporting role, done is the usual great Will Smith style.
If you like your adrenalin on high, action scenes with human fighting dangerous animals (even though animated) this is the movie to see. Don't take young children, its violent and scaring even for an adult like me.
Mostly through the discourse on FEAR is why to see this movie and what is learned and taught about FEAR is worth the journey.
3 1/2 out of 5.
Their spaceship is wrecked on earth, a place where humans no longer live, but animals who hunt them do. Cypher, Will Smith is injured so his young teenage son has to travel 100 miles over rough terrain with very variable day/night temperatures to get a beacon from the other part of the space ship. The adventures he goes through is what the story is mainly about, with flashbacks to the death of his sister to aid the impact of the story. Young Jaden Smith, carries this movie and considering his age he does an incredible job. Will Smith's job as being the commander/father and learning about his son, who is strong minded and trying to impress him is truly a supporting role, done is the usual great Will Smith style.
If you like your adrenalin on high, action scenes with human fighting dangerous animals (even though animated) this is the movie to see. Don't take young children, its violent and scaring even for an adult like me.
Mostly through the discourse on FEAR is why to see this movie and what is learned and taught about FEAR is worth the journey.
3 1/2 out of 5.
Epic - movie review
I am amazed these days when I go to see an animated movie how real they make everything and Epic is the same. Except for the gliding walk it could be real people and animals you are watching. Epic most definitely has an appeal for both adults and children alike.
The story of Mary Katherine (MK) who is voiced by Amanda Seyfried who gets shrunk by the Queen of the jungle and then spends time saving the forest. She hooks up with Josh Hutcherson - Nod and other Leafmen in their battle against Mandrake voiced by Chrisoph Waltz the evil one who wants to destroy the forest. Beyoncé is the voice of the Forest Queen, while Colin Farrell is her protector/friend.
This is a cute movie with the age old, good versus evil story. It moves quite quickly from scene to scene, with a lot of birds and other animals flying around carrying the fighting armies plus Nod and MK.
I think this might be a bit frightening for young children, but eight and above should enjoy it immensely. I know the Dad sitting just down from me was laughing out loud several times and in one place a young boy sitting two rows down from me was up and jumping up and down with excitement. Fun for the family!!!
3 out of 5.
The story of Mary Katherine (MK) who is voiced by Amanda Seyfried who gets shrunk by the Queen of the jungle and then spends time saving the forest. She hooks up with Josh Hutcherson - Nod and other Leafmen in their battle against Mandrake voiced by Chrisoph Waltz the evil one who wants to destroy the forest. Beyoncé is the voice of the Forest Queen, while Colin Farrell is her protector/friend.
This is a cute movie with the age old, good versus evil story. It moves quite quickly from scene to scene, with a lot of birds and other animals flying around carrying the fighting armies plus Nod and MK.
I think this might be a bit frightening for young children, but eight and above should enjoy it immensely. I know the Dad sitting just down from me was laughing out loud several times and in one place a young boy sitting two rows down from me was up and jumping up and down with excitement. Fun for the family!!!
3 out of 5.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Fast & Furious 6 - movie review
I could not wait to see this movie. My appointment book had when it was opening Fast & Furious 6. Unfortunately I had to wait a whole day before I could go and see it, but last night saw me and my movie goer friend Trish walk in and take our seats (I had bought them ahead when I went back to see Star Trek - phenomenal movie - again.).
I own the DVD's of the other movies and just loved seeing, Van Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordara Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot, Chris aLudacrisa Bridges and Elsa Patakg with Dwayne Johnson from Fast and Furious 5, and then adding Michelle Rodriguez who had died at the end of Fast and Furious but was reborn (having forgotten her memory) in 6.
I found it a bit slow for the first quarter (picky me) but then the action started and once again was tremendously impressed with the stunts. Wow, there are some beauties in here. Worth seeing again for that. The plot was not as important to me as the message 'family is the most important'. I could not agree more.
You want action, phenomenal stunts, and seeing the 'gang' back in action, then you have to see this movie. There are some surprises and yes, some deaths, but the ending sets up for Fast and Furious 7. Can't wait.
4 out of 5.
I own the DVD's of the other movies and just loved seeing, Van Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordara Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot, Chris aLudacrisa Bridges and Elsa Patakg with Dwayne Johnson from Fast and Furious 5, and then adding Michelle Rodriguez who had died at the end of Fast and Furious but was reborn (having forgotten her memory) in 6.
I found it a bit slow for the first quarter (picky me) but then the action started and once again was tremendously impressed with the stunts. Wow, there are some beauties in here. Worth seeing again for that. The plot was not as important to me as the message 'family is the most important'. I could not agree more.
You want action, phenomenal stunts, and seeing the 'gang' back in action, then you have to see this movie. There are some surprises and yes, some deaths, but the ending sets up for Fast and Furious 7. Can't wait.
4 out of 5.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
The Great Gatsby movie review
The Great Gatsby directed by Baz Luhrmann, you knew would be spectacular. Baz tends to produce large pieces (although Australia was panned by many, something I could not understand, as I loved it and have watched it many times.) I therefore was wondering how The Great Gatsby would turn out. Having Leonardo DiCaprio playing Gatsby was a stroke of genius. He is such a phenomenal actor, and he portrays all the feelings that Gatsby has with such aplomb, that I sat there in awe of the acting ability of this man. The supporting cast comprising of Carey Mulligan, Tobey Maguire and Joel Eggerton were also well casted and each actor portrayed their roles well. Carey Mulligan, the rich girl, who Gasby loves, plays the delicate, Daisy loving Gatsby, yet also ruled is some ways by her husband. I thought Tobey Maguire was perfect as the teller of the story. As Daisy's cousin Nick he remembers the 'summer' in which all this takes place. Money, manipulation, imagination and love all take place within this movie.
I would be remiss in not mentioning the sets of the parties which take place, the over abundance of color, booze, life, which is indicative of a part of society in the 1920's.
This movie has depth, and the screen is filled with scenes of varying different shades of life and interactions of people. Baz has done is usual great job. Understanding the human condition is not always an easy thing, but through this movie you get to take a look.
4 out of 5.
I would be remiss in not mentioning the sets of the parties which take place, the over abundance of color, booze, life, which is indicative of a part of society in the 1920's.
This movie has depth, and the screen is filled with scenes of varying different shades of life and interactions of people. Baz has done is usual great job. Understanding the human condition is not always an easy thing, but through this movie you get to take a look.
4 out of 5.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Star Trek Into Darkness - movie review
I am a Star Trek fan, and I waited until Sunday to go and see this movie, so my friend Trish, who usually accompanies me to the movies could come with me. She had been playing Grandmother, looking after her two small grandchildren. So it was with enjoyment in our hearts, that Trish picked me up and we drove the two children to meet up with their parents and we went to a different theatre than usual to see Star Trek Into Darkness in 3D.
Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed this movie from beginning to end. The characters, so well fitting their roles. Chris Pine as the ever not going to obey rules, Zachary Quinto as the wonderful Spock, always following rules. Their verbal by play had me laughing away, the writing is really good to be able to keep the story going, yet not be boring, and not letting the plot die away. A big shout out to the writers.
Then of course the back up with Scotty played by Simon Pegg and Bones, Karl Urban and the never to be forgotten Uhura so aptly played by Zoe Salana. These characters are the backbone of the movie and always worth seeing as they interreact.
Then in this movie, the Sherlock Holmes from British TV, Benedict Cumberbatch, gives a face to the terrorist. The movie house gasped as his identity was revealed, (I'm not going to here because if you have not seen it, you need to be surprised) but I will say I clapped on the revealing. He was spectacular as the villain.
All in all, I can't wait for the next Star Trek movie to come. I wish it was next week, but I will be gong to be this movie again its so good. Usually a second movie is not as good as the first, I think this one is better. JJ. Abrams is a great director, and brings out the best in all his
actors. The action scenes always fulfill the need in the moment. I truly don't know what else they could do to make this movie better.
5 out of 5 for me. I will see it in 2D next time, just to see the difference 3D made.
Star Trek fan or not, if you like action, you will love this movie. Go see it!!!
Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed this movie from beginning to end. The characters, so well fitting their roles. Chris Pine as the ever not going to obey rules, Zachary Quinto as the wonderful Spock, always following rules. Their verbal by play had me laughing away, the writing is really good to be able to keep the story going, yet not be boring, and not letting the plot die away. A big shout out to the writers.
Then of course the back up with Scotty played by Simon Pegg and Bones, Karl Urban and the never to be forgotten Uhura so aptly played by Zoe Salana. These characters are the backbone of the movie and always worth seeing as they interreact.
Then in this movie, the Sherlock Holmes from British TV, Benedict Cumberbatch, gives a face to the terrorist. The movie house gasped as his identity was revealed, (I'm not going to here because if you have not seen it, you need to be surprised) but I will say I clapped on the revealing. He was spectacular as the villain.
All in all, I can't wait for the next Star Trek movie to come. I wish it was next week, but I will be gong to be this movie again its so good. Usually a second movie is not as good as the first, I think this one is better. JJ. Abrams is a great director, and brings out the best in all his
actors. The action scenes always fulfill the need in the moment. I truly don't know what else they could do to make this movie better.
5 out of 5 for me. I will see it in 2D next time, just to see the difference 3D made.
Star Trek fan or not, if you like action, you will love this movie. Go see it!!!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
42 - Movie Review
It is not often you sit in a movie and feel you have been entertained, learned some history and feel satisfied with the performance and story when you leave. This is what 42 does. The true life story of baseball player Jackie Robinson played aptly by Chadwick Boseman who was the first player to break Major League baseball's color barrier when he was signed to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He eventually went on to play in six world series.
The person who I think will be given an academy nod is Harrison Ford. He is brilliant as the man who orchestrated Jackie Robinson's admission into the major league. Words cannot say how well he plays the role. He is not the Harrison Ford we know. He is the character he is playing. I also enjoyed seeing TR Knight (George from Grey's Anatomy) doing well in his role. In fact there are many T.V. stars in this movie in different roles. You will recognize them as the movie unfolds.
This movie totally worth seeing, not only for the historical content, but for how we have evolved and how important people are who play a part in this evolution. There is one scene when people are shouting abuse at Jackie Robertson, and all of a sudden a young man (about 14) begins yelling what his father was saying. In that scene alone you can see how racism is perpetrated. The young following the old without thought of what they are saying. One powerful scene.
Well worth seeing for the various levels it portrays besides the baseball.
I give this movie 5 out of 5
The person who I think will be given an academy nod is Harrison Ford. He is brilliant as the man who orchestrated Jackie Robinson's admission into the major league. Words cannot say how well he plays the role. He is not the Harrison Ford we know. He is the character he is playing. I also enjoyed seeing TR Knight (George from Grey's Anatomy) doing well in his role. In fact there are many T.V. stars in this movie in different roles. You will recognize them as the movie unfolds.
This movie totally worth seeing, not only for the historical content, but for how we have evolved and how important people are who play a part in this evolution. There is one scene when people are shouting abuse at Jackie Robertson, and all of a sudden a young man (about 14) begins yelling what his father was saying. In that scene alone you can see how racism is perpetrated. The young following the old without thought of what they are saying. One powerful scene.
Well worth seeing for the various levels it portrays besides the baseball.
I give this movie 5 out of 5
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Movie Review Les Miserables
Another long movie in which the audience (including me) sat spellbound as the story unfolded in front of them. From the advertising before hand we knew the singing in Les Miserables, except for the original scene was done as it was shot. No studio singing. And yes, it made a difference, it was like watching a stage production, but with the most magnificent sets. I originally saw Les Miserables on stage in New York and although I don't remember much of it, as it was a long time ago, I did purchase the CD set of the songs, as I had been moved by the music. I also watched the movie made with Liam Neesom and Geoffrey Rush again a few nights before going to see this production and therefore I was aware of the story line. Although some of the information from the other movie filled in some blanks for me, this one was more, much more in that it had a lot more scenes at the ending, plus some characters which were not in the other one, and as I have not read Victor Hugo's novel, it does not matter, which story was accurate, as the story laid out here is so compelling.
The actors singing was great, even surprising, as who would think Russel Crowe could sing well enough to pull off the part of the never relenting police officer Javert - but he did. Wonderfully well. Hugh Jackman I knew could sing, but the acting and singing together definitely makes his part Oscar material. Simply put, he was great. Anne Hathaway, another one, I did not know could sing, but does great in the role as the fragile, sad Fantine and then Amanda Seyfried, from Mama Mia so we knew she could sing, plus look innocently beautiful.
My friend Marion who was with me turned to me at the end of the movie, as I handed her a Kleenex said, "Now I know why this has been nominated for so many awards".
The director Tom Hooper, who directed Kings Speech, did an amazing job, and I'm sure will also be recognized. Yes, many awards including Oscar nominations will come from this movie. It is a must see.
If you don't know the story, Hugh Jackman's role, Jean Valjean is imprisoned for 19 years after stealing a loaf of bread, we come onto the scene as he is being released. He is on parole for life, and after stealing some silver from a church, the priest lets him go requesting he leave an honorable life. He changes his name, makes a new life until is old nemesis, Police Officer Javert, Russell Crowe recognizes him, and then the story unfolds. Jean Valjean is reacquainted with Fantine, Anne Hathaway, as she is dying and advises of her daughter Cosette.
Valjean gets Cosette and they go to Paris, where she is raised in a convent, when they come out of the convent (oh yes, Jean Valjean works as the gardener there until Cosette wants to see the world). What she discovers is Marius, and they fall in love while the battle for the republic begins. Valjean saves Marius, so they can be together. All done with wonderful singing and understanding.
I do have to mention the light side of two characters played by Helen Bonham Carter and Sasha Baron Cohen. They provided the levity, that the story sometimes needed, and were in their great acting style.
Whether you like musicals or not, this movie is definitely a must. A must to see on the big screen because of the environment, the feeling, plus the singing. Go!!
5 out of 5.
The actors singing was great, even surprising, as who would think Russel Crowe could sing well enough to pull off the part of the never relenting police officer Javert - but he did. Wonderfully well. Hugh Jackman I knew could sing, but the acting and singing together definitely makes his part Oscar material. Simply put, he was great. Anne Hathaway, another one, I did not know could sing, but does great in the role as the fragile, sad Fantine and then Amanda Seyfried, from Mama Mia so we knew she could sing, plus look innocently beautiful.
My friend Marion who was with me turned to me at the end of the movie, as I handed her a Kleenex said, "Now I know why this has been nominated for so many awards".
The director Tom Hooper, who directed Kings Speech, did an amazing job, and I'm sure will also be recognized. Yes, many awards including Oscar nominations will come from this movie. It is a must see.
If you don't know the story, Hugh Jackman's role, Jean Valjean is imprisoned for 19 years after stealing a loaf of bread, we come onto the scene as he is being released. He is on parole for life, and after stealing some silver from a church, the priest lets him go requesting he leave an honorable life. He changes his name, makes a new life until is old nemesis, Police Officer Javert, Russell Crowe recognizes him, and then the story unfolds. Jean Valjean is reacquainted with Fantine, Anne Hathaway, as she is dying and advises of her daughter Cosette.
Valjean gets Cosette and they go to Paris, where she is raised in a convent, when they come out of the convent (oh yes, Jean Valjean works as the gardener there until Cosette wants to see the world). What she discovers is Marius, and they fall in love while the battle for the republic begins. Valjean saves Marius, so they can be together. All done with wonderful singing and understanding.
I do have to mention the light side of two characters played by Helen Bonham Carter and Sasha Baron Cohen. They provided the levity, that the story sometimes needed, and were in their great acting style.
Whether you like musicals or not, this movie is definitely a must. A must to see on the big screen because of the environment, the feeling, plus the singing. Go!!
5 out of 5.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)