Category Archives: 2013 Films

2013 Films, Action, Horror, Los Angeles, Social Issues

The Purge-2013

July 23, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Purge-2013

Director James DeMonaco

Starring Ethan Hawke, Lena Headey

Scott’s Review #128

Reviewed July 23, 2014

Grade: A-

On paper, the premise of The Purge (2013) is intriguing. It immediately caught my attention, and I was compelled to see it.

The government, fed up with the overwhelming crime and prison overcrowding, decides to initiate a once-a-year purge, where anything goes.

It’s like Christmas for the criminals and the insane.

All emergency and police services shut down on this night, and citizens are left to their own devices as a way to purge the violent and aggressive instincts from human systems.

An affluent family, led by a security systems genius (Ethan Hawke), nestles in their lavish home.

Of course, events go awry, and chaos ensues.

The film has suspense, thrills, frights, and a bit of humor, while raising questions of class distinction and societal inequality: Why are the wealthy better off than the poor? Do they deserve to be?

I enjoyed the setting of the wealthy, gated Los Angeles community and the eerily Stepford-wife-like atmosphere of the neighborhood, where housewives delivered casseroles and other dishes to each other for the big night.

Throughout this sunny environment, the viewer could sense a too-good-to-be-true cheerfulness and the darkness to follow, anticipated as sunset emerged.

I found this film unpredictable and edge-of-your-seat, and it delved into a home-invasion thriller that worked well.

I couldn’t predict what would happen next, and that was incredibly entertaining.

I am unsure whether some of the humor in the film was intentional; some of the kills were over the top and included one-liners, but The Purge (2013) is a crisp, fun, summer popcorn horror film.

2013 Films, Action, Blockbuster, Horror, Post-apocalyptic, Science Fiction, Thriller, Zombie

World War Z-2013

July 20, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

World War Z-2013

Director Marc Forster

Starring Brad Pitt

Scott’s Review #121

Reviewed July 20, 2014

Grade: B

World War Z (2013) is the type of film that is a summer hit but will most likely be forgotten over the years.

It is a slightly above-average, enjoyable action/ zombie thriller, but not much more.

It stars Brad Pitt as a former United Nations investigator called in to save the world from a zombie pandemic. The crisis spreads simultaneously across major cities worldwide.

The film sees Pitt traversing the globe in an attempt to find a cure for the epidemic before it is too late and the zombies make the world extinct of humans.

The zombies are super zombies: they can fly and move at lightning speed, making them ultra-dangerous.

The story is implausible and plot-driven, but it doesn’t matter and works on some level. My theory for this success is that the film is fast-paced, the action starts almost immediately, and Brad Pitt is charismatic.

He is the star, and all the action centers around him.

The film contains exciting, tense scenes, including a plane crash sequence and a chase around a medical lab.

World War Z (2013) is a popcorn film meant to be sat back and enjoyed, not overanalyzed or taken too seriously.

It is a perfect summer hit.

2013 Films, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Labor Day

Labor Day-2013

July 17, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Labor Day-2013

Director Jason Reitman

Starring Kate Winslet, Josh Brolin

Scott’s Review #116

Reviewed July 17, 2014

Grade: B+

Labor Day (2013) is quite simply a modern love story.

Set in 1987 on a hot Labor Day weekend in New Hampshire, a boy and his mother are approached by an escaped convict pleading for help.

They reluctantly agree, and what follows is a weekend of mixed emotions and bonding among the three.

Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin have great chemistry as the leads, and although the film feels like it was set in 1987, it looks quite modern.

The woman is divorced and insecure and bordering on being a shut-in. The son is more like the parent, taking care of her and running errands.

An older version of the son narrates the film (played by Tobey Maguire). Questions run through the viewer’s mind throughout the film, which is a major positive.

Can the convict be trusted? Is he guilty or is there more to the story? Is the mother falling for him or pretending to escape?

All the action plays out over one weekend while the town is on high alert and everyone searches for the escaped convict, and most of it takes place in the family home, giving the film a stage-production feel.

The film includes tense moments and flashbacks of both the convict’s and the woman’s lives before they meet, so we, as viewers, get to know them well.

Despite their differences, the couple has a rooting value to them thanks to Brolin’s and Winslet’s talents.

Labor Day (2013) is a well-made film that received little recognition.

2013 Films, Horror, Supernatural Horror

Mama-2013

July 15, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Mama-2013

Director Andres Muschietti

Starring Jessica Chastain

Scott’s Review #112

Reviewed July 15, 2014

Grade: C

Mama is a 2013 horror film that surprisingly stars Jessica Chastain, who one might assume is too high-brow for horror given her recent Oscar nominations.

Mama tells the story of two little girls, involved in a car accident, who survive on their own for years until finally rescued and raised by Chastain.

This film had both positives and negatives.

The opening sequence involving the girls’ troubled father and the drive through the countryside to the car wreck is realistic and compelling.

The snow and drifts have a picturesque, haunting beauty.

Throughout the film, some unique, effective visuals create a mysterious ambiance.

However, the film’s main negative is Chastain.

A top-notch actress, I did not, for an instant, buy her as a short-haired, raven-dyed, rocker chick with tattoos and a tough-girl persona.

It did not work at all.

The story as a whole was convoluted, and when the final credits rolled, it made no sense to me.

As a whole, Mama (2013) was not scary (sadly rated PG-13) but had some nice moments.

2013 Films, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films

Concussion- 2013

July 15, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Concussion-2013

Director Stacie Passon

Starring Robin Weigert

Scott’s Review #111

Reviewed July 15, 2014

Grade: B+

Concussion (2013) is a small, interesting, independent film that tells the story of an affluent Westchester County, NY housewife who is a lesbian.

Brilliantly played by Robin Weigert, the woman is married to another woman and decides to become an escort for other women experimenting with their sexuality.

On paper, it reads like a comedy, but it is a character study and strictly a drama.

The woman (Abby) has a seemingly happy marriage. Her wife is a high-powered attorney, and Abby stays home and raises the kids.

But she is bored and conflicted in her marriage, and something is missing. She loves her wife, and they have a wonderful circle of friends, both gay and straight.

They throw dinner parties and have a sense of togetherness.

The escort scenes aren’t what you might expect. Very little sexual content occurs, but rather bonds can form between escort and client.

I love the way no lesbian stereotypes are portrayed- both main characters are intelligent, attractive, and feminine.

The clientele is not dangerous, trashy, or flighty.

Concussion (2013) is not a lesbian film per se, but it’s a human film- anyone in a long-term commitment or anyone who admires a character-driven film will relate to this movie, and it should be viewed.

2013 Films, Horror, Supernatural Horror

Carrie- 2013

July 15, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Carrie-2013

Director Kimberly Peirce

Starring Chloe Grace Moretz

Scott’s Review #110

Reviewed July 15, 2014

Grade: C-

Carrie is a 2013 remake of the classic 1976 horror masterpiece of the same name directed by Brian De Palma and adapted from the Stephen King novel.

Comparing the two is difficult since the original is brilliant.

The remake of Carrie showed some potential in the first half as the setup developed, and it’s overall fairly entertaining.

Carrie White (Moretz) is a bullied outcast teenager with telekinetic powers. She can move things, usually when she’s angry.

Her mother, played by Julianne Moore, is a repressed Christian woman with issues about sex (among other things).

Following a cruel encounter in the locker room, one of the popular girls, feeling guilty, talks her boyfriend into taking Carrie to the prom.

Chloe Grace Moretz is okay as Carrie but hardly seems nerdy or homely enough to pull it off completely. She could easily have portrayed one of the popular girls.

Julianne Moore is too sympathetic to be believable as the crazy Mrs. White, so that doesn’t work either.

Finally, the actresses playing Sue Snell (Gabriella Wilde) and Chris (Portia Doubleday) should be reversed. Chris is a despicable character, comfortable as the queen bee, but Doubleday plays her as awkward and insecure.

Meanwhile, Wilde feels better suited to play a vicious, bitchy character.

So, the casting has issues.

In the original, the audience feels Carrie’s rage and cheers her on in her revenge, but that doesn’t happen in this version. There wasn’t enough justification to warrant the revenge.

And since when did having telekinesis result in being able to fly?

Carrie circa 2013 is a pale imitation of the classic 1976 horror film, but I suppose not a complete dud either.

2013 Films, Ghost Story, Horror, Supernatural Horror

The Conjuring-2013

July 10, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Conjuring-2013

Director James Wan

Starring Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga

Scott’s Review #102

Reviewed July 10, 2014

Grade: A-

The Conjuring (2013) is one of the best horror films I have seen in recent years.

It tells the story of Ed and Lorraine Warren, played by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, respectively, paranormal investigators who come to the aid of a haunted farm family, the Perrons, led by Ron Livingston and Lili Taylor.

The film is set in Rhode Island, circa 1971, and is loosely based on true events.

Typically in modern horror films, one is treated to a) gore or b) attempted scares that are seen a mile away.

The Conjuring is a classic ghost story with genuine frights.

A big difference from other standard horror films is that the audience cares about the characters. One believes they are a family being terrorized by demons and sympathizes with them.

The phrase “based on a true story” is meaningless.

Who cares? It’s a scary film with likable characters.

Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson are the standouts for me, as well as one refreshing child actor who can act without the cutesiness or overacting too often found in child actors today.

The costume/set designers do an excellent job; the film has a genuine early 1970s look that’s tremendously effective.

The Conjuring (2013) is an eerie, frightening, jump-out-of-your-seat, fun time.

2013 Films, Action, Thriller

Oldboy-2013

July 8, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Oldboy-2013

Director Spike Lee

Starring Josh Brolin

Scott’s Review #97

Reviewed July 8, 2014

Grade: B-

Oldboy (2013) is a United States remake of the original South Korean film from 2003, telling the story of a successful advertising executive named Joe Doucett, played wonderfully by Josh Brolin.

He is mysteriously kidnapped and kept prisoner in a private one-room facility, where he is served the same three meals daily for twenty years, while framed for the murder of his wife.

Over the years, he keeps up with his daughter’s life through videos.

He is just as mysteriously released after twenty years and sets out to exact revenge on his former captors.

Brolin is charismatic and appealing in the lead role (kudos for his multiple nude scenes), and it is nice to see Michael Imperioli in an offbeat supporting role.

The premise is interesting, but it is the kind of film where everything is plot-driven, the villains completely manipulate events, and the film becomes implausible and, via flashbacks, reminds me of the CBS series Cold Case.

Forgetting that Brolin’s character becomes superhero-like and chiseled after twenty years in captivity, the film is a good, solid, fun thrill ride, and bloody at times.

It has aspects of a nice whodunit, a least a first.

It has so many plot holes that I lost count, but somehow it is enjoyable at the same time.

Oldboy (2013) is never boring and even unpredictable at times.

Many questions run through the viewer’s head. Who is the villain? What could the villain’s motivation be? Friend or foe?

The film is unrealistic and ludicrous at times, but also highly enjoyable.

2013 Films, Adventure, Fantasy, Kids

Jack the Giant Slayer-2013

July 4, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Jack the Giant Slayer-2013

Director Bryan Singer

Starring Nicholas Hoult

Scott’s Review #93

Reviewed July 4, 2014

Grade: C

Jack the Giant Slayer (2013) is a fantasy, CGI-laden film most likely targeted at a young audience.

It tells the story of Jack (Nicholas Hoult), a farmhand who must rescue a beautiful princess from the world of giants after an accident opens a gateway to their world.

The film is loosely based on the fairy tale “Jack and the Beanstalk”.

The special effects in the Land of the Giants are the most impressive aspect.

Otherwise, it is a love story mixed with adventure and is not very engaging. It is also very predictable.

Heavyweights Ewan McGregor and Stanley Tucci appear in over-the-top performances, and the acting of the princess (Eleanor Tomlinson) is shockingly wooden.

The finale is mildly entertaining as a chase through the castle, but the film is so weighed down by the effects and the lack of a good story that it feels like a middle-of-the-road film.

2013 Films, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Drama, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, San Francisco

Blue Jasmine-2013

July 3, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Blue Jasmine-2013

Director Woody Allen

Starring Cate Blanchett

Scott’s Review #92

Reviewed July 3, 2014

Grade: A

Blue Jasmine (2013) is Woody Allen’s latest offering and one of his best since the 1970s.

I have heard from several people who aren’t typical Woody Allen fans but loved this film, and I wonder why.

My theory is that Cate Blanchett, who stars as neurotic Jasmine, is the heart and soul of this movie.

Allen’s films usually center on neurotic characters, and this film is no different.

Set primarily in San Francisco, it shows how Jasmine has lost all her money because of bad investments by her ex-husband (played in flashbacks by Alec Baldwin).

She is a socialite used to a life of excess and extravagance.

Now Jasmine is reduced to making a clean start by rooming with her blue-collar sister, played by Sally Hawkins, and trying to scrape by.

Jasmine struggles to find success and the means to survive.

The film is hysterical, heartbreaking, and even a downer at moments.

With the help of pills and martinis, Jasmine is snobbish and ego-centric, yet the audience falls in love with her and roots for her.

She is high-class yet broke. She keeps up appearances, and her wit, usually at the expense of others, never falters.

Blanchett is responsible for the love of this character and, thankfully, won the Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal.

The dialogue is sharp, witty, and filled with laugh-out-loud moments. Thanks to much of it taking place in flashbacks, the audience sees Jasmine’s life as it once was, having everything and then some, then back to her current reality, back and forth.

This is a wise choice, showing both of her lives.

Blue Jasmine (2013) is one of Woody Allen’s best.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Actress-Cate Blanchett (won), Best Supporting Actress-Sally Hawkins, Best Original Screenplay

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Female Lead-Cate Blanchett (won), Best Supporting Female-Sally Hawkins, Best Screenplay

2013 Films, Horror, Thriller

Crush-2013

July 2, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Crush-2013

Director Malik Bader

Starring Lucas Till

Scott’s Review #87

Reviewed July 2, 2014

Grade: C-

Crush (2013) tells a story told since almost the beginning of cinematic history: that of the stalker.

It’s a teen stalker film similar to Swimfan (2002) and The Roommate (2011), which I admit I’ve seen and enjoyed as guilty pleasures.

A teen soccer jock injures his knee and decides to break up with his girlfriend to focus on rehab. From there, someone begins stalking him and leaving secret admirer notes.

Several red herrings ensue, and the final thirty minutes contain a twist that, unfortunately, if you bother to look at the cover art on the DVD, reveals the stalker.

This particular genre is a guilty pleasure of mine, so it’s tough to be completely objective.

On the surface, Crush is a terrible movie- it is by the numbers with no character development, but just plain old fun.

I suppose it is loosely a remake of the Alicia Silverstone film from the 1990s.

In any event, the appeal (good or bad) is that the filmmakers played this film seriously instead of fessing up to a poor script and playing it for laughs.

The acting is awful, the teen outcasts look like they could easily be the popular kids and were made up to appear nerdy, and the film has a Hallmark television movie-of-the-week badness.

But in a goofy, trashy way, I enjoyed Crush (2013).

2013 Films, Biography, Drama, Historical Drama, Political Drama

Lee Daniels’ The Butler-2013

June 30, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Lee Daniels’ The Butler-2013

Director Lee Daniels

Starring Forest Whitaker

Scott’s Review #81

Reviewed June 30, 2014

Grade: A

Director Lee Daniels is a recent favorite of mine (Precious-2009, The Paperboy-2012), and his latest, The Butler (2013), is an excellent, true-story undertaking.

While the trailer looked appealing, I was concerned that the film might be overwrought or have a Hollywood sappiness.

While it’s a Hollywood film, it is also a powerful, emotional experience.

The viewer is taken on a journey from 1926 through the current president from the viewpoint of White House butler Cecil Gaines (Whitaker), who serves several presidents and is privy to the goings-on in the White House.

Forest Whitaker plays him, and Oprah Winfrey plays his boozy, troubled wife.

Both give tremendous performances.

The Butler is a political journey through time and I love the authenticity of each decade from the sets to the costumes to the hairstyles.

The casting of the Presidents is curious (Robin Williams as Eisenhower and John Cusack as Nixon), but works nonetheless.

The rivalry between Cecil Gaines and his rebellious son is interesting, as the viewer sides with each of them at different times.

The film is more emotional than I anticipated and much of the audience was teary during scenes of heartbreak and triumph.

I feel The Butler (2013) is a must-see for everyone.

2013 Films, Crime Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Thriller

Prisoners-2013

June 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Prisoners-2013

Director Denis Villeneuve

Starring Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal

Scott’s Review #75

Reviewed June 27, 2014

Grade: B+

The film Prisoners (2013) weaves a gripping, taut psychological tale amid a stellar cast, including Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello, Viola Davis, and Paul Dano.

That is what separates it from other similar, yet mediocre, thrillers.

The gray, somber Pennsylvania town is a perfect backdrop for a story involving child abduction and a father who seeks a confession from the presumed kidnapper.

The mood and cinematography are impressive, and the bleakness fits the tone: a cold Thanksgiving holiday weekend in a working-class steel town.

At two hours and twenty-six minutes, the film is long, but it keeps you on the edge of your seat.

What intrigued me most was the audience conflict of whom to root for. Is the father purely innocent? Is the kidnapper guilty? Is someone else involved?

These questions go through the viewer’s mind during the film.

Prisoners has a major drawback: too many plot holes and questions left unanswered after the film.

The kidnapper’s motivations are weak and never fully explained. Parts of the story don’t add up and make little sense.

The film’s style is similar to Zodiac (2006) and Mystic River (2003).

Prisoners (2013) is an intense, thrilling ride to enjoy, but not over-analyze.

Oscar Nominations: Best Cinematography

2013 Films, Comedy, Drama, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, Romantic Comedy, Romantic Drama

Enough Said-2013

June 25, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Enough Said-2013

Director Nicole Holofcener

Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, James Gandolfini

Scott’s Review #71

Reviewed June 25, 2014

Grade: B+

Enough Said (2013) is a surprisingly well-written, small indie romantic comedy and, sadly, James Gandolfini’s (TV’s The Sopranos) final film performance.

The film stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus as a down-to-earth massage therapist who meets her odd match (Gandolfini) at a party.

They slowly begin dating, and some interesting misunderstandings ensue.

The seemingly odd couple fall in love and form a special bond over time. Both struggle to overcome past relationships and trust someone again, making them vulnerable and compelling characters.

They strive to be happy but are not quite there yet.

I found the dialogue very sharp and witty, and Dreyfus is perfectly cast in this film. She and Gandolfini have enormous chemistry, and the film is not contrived in the least, as many romantic comedies are.

The film feels like a West Coast Woody Allen film from a female perspective with many neurotic, flawed characters.

I enjoyed it immensely.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: Best Supporting Male-James Gandolfini, Best Screenplay

2013 Films, Science Fiction, Thriller

Gravity-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Gravity-2013

Director Alfonso Cuarón

Starring Sandra Bullock, George Clooney

Scott’s Review #69

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B

Gravity (2013) has become a film that has divided people- some have described it as “brilliant”, “groundbreaking”, and “phenomenal”.

Because of the hype, I expected something of a masterpiece. Not being a 3-D fan (usually unnecessary), I gave in and saw it in 3-D, which did help the film.

I have discovered the theory- the techies will love it; the storytellers will not.

Yes, the film is inventive, and the space scenes are magnificent, so much so that I felt like I was floating in space looking down at planet Earth.

Sandra Bullock is excellent as a lost astronaut, fearful and desperate.

But the story is quite basic and, frankly, weak. I kept waiting for the plot to thicken and was left wanting much more than the movie delivered.

The backstory for Clooney and Bullock was limited.

I must stress, though, that technically this film is astounding and deserves the praise heaped on it, but as a complete movie, it didn’t deliver.

Oscar Nominations: 7 wins-Best Picture, Best Director- Alfonso Cuarón (won), Best Actress-Sandra Bullock, Best Original Score (won), Best Sound Editing (won), Best Sound Mixing (won), Best Production Design, Best Cinematography (won), Best Film Editing (won), Best Visual Effects (won)

2013 Films, Biography, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama

Fruitvale Station-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Fruitvale Station-2013

Director Ryan Coogler

Starring Michael B. Jordan

Scott’s Review #64

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B+

Without knowing all the details of this incident, and only considering what the film presents, Fruitvale Station (2013) is a good film.

Most of the film is in the lead-up to the big incident.

While not perfect, the victim is presented as a good guy who helps strangers and stray dogs, loves his daughter, and has a great heart.

He lives a tough life, has been in and out of prison, and is forced to sell drugs to make a living.

But he has a strong family unit (mother, grandmother, girlfriend, friends), so he lives a decent life.

The cops in question are presented very negatively (intense, racist, and brutal).

Again, I don’t know what happened, but obviously, the filmmakers are on the victim’s side (as they should be). The police’s reasons are revealed at the end of the film.

It’s a heartfelt, good, solid portrayal.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Male Lead-Michael B. Jordan, Best Supporting Female-Melonie Diaz, Best First Feature (won)

2013 Films, Biography, Drama

Diana-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Diana-2013

Director Oliver Hirschbiegel

Starring Naomi Watts

Scott’s Review #63

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: C+

Assuming all the details of Diana (2013) are accurate, this film offers an interesting account of Princess Diana’s last two years of life and her transition from married royalty to a single woman, all while remaining the most famous woman on earth.

While the film is interesting, I felt something was missing, and it was not as gripping as I had hoped.

I also did not quite buy Naomi Watts as Diana. Her mannerisms were off to me, and the real Diana was taller.

Also, I didn’t quite believe that Diana could throw on a brown wig and walk freely around London unrecognized.

There was no chemistry between Watts and Naveen Andrews (TV’s Lost), who played a successful heart surgeon with whom Diana begins a romance.

These criticisms do not mean the film was a total failure (there was a sincere likability and charisma that Watts brought to the role), but it was not as good as one would have hoped.

2013 Films, Best Feature- Independent Spirit Award Winners, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Biography, Drama, Historical Drama, Independent, Independent Drama

12 Years a Slave-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

12 Years a Slave-2013

Director Steve McQueen

Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor

Scott’s Review #62

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: A

At the time of 12 Years a Slave’s (2013) release, a ton of buzz began circulating. Was it that good?

Considered the front-runner to win the Best Picture statue, it did go on to win the top honor.

The film is not easy to watch. It is brutal and heart-wrenching at times. I will spare the details, but the most intense scene involves a whip.

There are scenes of torture, degradation, and cruelty against the slaves by the slave owners.

While tough to watch, I applaud the film for not glossing over the atrocities of slavery. Some have criticized it for being a retread of similar films, but I disagree. It is worlds more intense than watered-down versions.

However, the film is not a downer.

Yes, a class of people is beaten down and victimized, but they also rise above and never give up hope. The fact that it’s a true story, and that the real Solomon Northup wrote a book about it, makes it all the more powerful.

The performances are outstanding (Ejiofor, Fassbender, Paulson, and Nyong’o).

The look and cinematography are sharp, and I love the distinctiveness of the North and South scenes. The setting is stifling hot and dreary.

There are at least two scenes where the camera pans on a shot and holds for what feels like an eternity until something happens, which makes the scenes effective.

While difficult to watch, 12 Years a Slave (2013) should be viewed by everyone to see how far society has come, not forgetting how far we still need to go to eliminate discrimination and victimization.

Oscar Nominations: 3 wins-Best Picture (won), Best Director-Steve McQueen, Best Actor-Chiwetel Ejiofor, Best Supporting Actor-Michael Fassbender, Best Supporting Actress-Lupita Nyong’o (won), Best Adapted Screenplay (won), Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 5 wins-Best Feature (won), Best Director-Steve McQueen (won), Best Male Lead-Chiwetel Ejiofor, Best Supporting Male-Michael Fassbender, Best Supporting Female-Lupita Nyong’o (won), Best Screenplay (won), Best Cinematography (won)

2013 Films, Biography, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films

Dallas Buyers Club-2013

June 22, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Dallas Buyers Club-2013

Director Jean-Marc Vallee

Starring Matthew McConaughey

Scott’s Review #54

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: A-

While Dallas Buyers Club (2013) is a well-written screenplay based on the true story of a straight Texas man who contracted AIDS circa 1985.

The film’s main appeal is the brilliant performances by Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto.

1985 was a different period as far as the deadly virus goes- people did not know then what they do now.

The fear and judgment featured in the film must be kept in mind for the time and location (Bible Belt Texas).

McConaughey’s physical transformation is an amazing feat, to begin with, a normally handsome, well-built actor, turned gaunt and hollow-eyed, but he completely encompasses this role with an intense, character, rich and flawed.

His body language and mannerisms are mesmerizing.

Leto’s performance as a transsexual, also stricken with the disease, is equally amazing.

The character is immediately sympathetic and vulnerable- a wounded bird you would like to take under your wing and save.

Despite the subject, the film itself is not a downer, nor does it attempt to be preachy. Rather, it is a tale of friendship, human growth, and survival in bleak times.

The film is dark, yet inspirational at the same time.

McConaughey and Leto deserve their Oscar wins for these roles.

Oscar Nominations: 3 wins-Best Picture, Best Actor-Matthew McConaughey (won), Best Supporting Actor-Jared Leto (won), Best Original Screenplay, Best Makeup and Hairstyling (won), Best Film Editing

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 2 wins-Best Male Lead-Matthew McConaughey (won), Best Supporting Male-Jared Leto (won)

2013 Films, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Religious

Philomena-2013

June 20, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Philomena-2013

Director Stephen Frears

Starring Judi Dench, Steve Coogan

Scott’s Review #50

Reviewed June 20, 2014

Grade: A-

I am thrilled to see anything starring Judi Dench (although don’t get me started on my disdain for Shakespeare in Love from 1998).

I could listen to her read the phone book; she has a voice that soothes and makes one content.

Philomena (2013) is thankfully a starring role for Ms. Dench after supporting turns in the recent James Bond films as M.

She plays a woman in search of her son who was taken from her by the Catholic Church fifty years ago.

I respect a film that challenges an institution, especially if it is based on a true story.

Beyond her wonderful performance, the film is layered, with a few twists and turns.

Dench’s self-titled character begins an adventure, with an author who champions her cause, to find her child.

It raises important questions about faith, religion, and the Catholic Church.

It will leave you pondering after the credits roll.

The main draw is Judi Dench, who is so simplistic yet effective in her performances.

Well done.

Oscar Nominations: Best Picture, Best Actress-Judi Dench, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score

2013 Films, Christmas, Drama, Musical, Musical Drama

Black Nativity-2013

June 18, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Black Nativity-2013

Director Kasi Lemmons

Starring Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett

Scott’s Review #46

Reviewed June 18, 2014

Grade: C-

Black Nativity (2013) is a family holiday movie about a poor Baltimore teen sent to live with his affluent, estranged grandparents (Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett) in Harlem.

Jennifer Hudson plays the teen’s financially struggling mother.

The estrangement stems from a silly misunderstanding years ago, when Hudson’s character was pregnant with her now-teenage son.

I enjoyed the performances of Whitaker, Bassett, and Hudson, and the sprinkling of songs performed by the leads was nice, but the story was incredibly sappy and predictable and wrapped up in a nice bow at the end of the film.

Scene one screams predictable and safe.

I did not sense any real conflict or grit throughout the movie, and it felt like watching a Hallmark-made-for-television movie- not a compliment.

Black Nativity (2013) is a nice family story, but a little more.

Skip unless you enjoy the watered-down family fare.

2013 Films, Animated, Best Animated Feature Oscar Winners, Disney, Fantasy, Kids, Musical

Frozen-2013

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Frozen-2013

Directors Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee

Starring Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel

Scott’s Review #43

Reviewed June 18, 2014

Grade: B

The adjective that springs to mind about the latest hit animated film Frozen (2013), which has overtaken the nation, is “cute”.

The story is loosely based on the Hans Christian Anderson story (heavily modified). It follows two royal sisters (Elsa and Anna), one of whom has special “ice” powers and accidentally injures the other, causing a rift.

From this point, there is a series of misunderstandings, love interests, a handsome prince, an adventure through the snow, and a Snow White-type theme.

The story is uplifting, sweet, and targeted to kids and parents seeking a wholesome, safe experience, but is it too safe?

My one criticism is the lack of diversity and culture in the main characters, as they all look similar, which doesn’t set the best example for kids watching.

The musical numbers stuck in my head as I hummed them for days. The songs are very trendy and pop-leaning, which may make this film feel dated quickly and overly current.

I loved the frozen, icy, wintry animation sets, perfect for watching in the winter months.

Olaf, the sidekick, the mini snowman, is witty and steals the show.

Oscar Nominations: 2 wins-Best Animated Feature Film (won), Best Original Song-“Let It Go” (won)

2013 Films, Comedy, Coming-of-Age, Drama, Independent, Independent Comedy, Independent Drama, Summer

The Way, Way Back-2013

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The Way, Way Back-2013

Directors Nat Faxon, Jim Rash

Starring Liam James

Scott’s Review #40

Reviewed June 18, 2014

Grade: B-

The Way, Way Back (2013) is a cute, summery, “coming of age” story about a teen misfit struggling to fit in.

It has the basic stereotypical characters (boozy neighbor, overbearing stepfather type), but kudos to great performances by Allison Janney and Steve Carell, who make the film much more than it otherwise would be.

The film feels like something done many times before, but it has a charming, feel-good quality.

Still, I would have enjoyed it more if the film had taken more risks and the characters had delved deeper.

The Way Way Back (2013) is a one-dimensional film that ultimately disappoints.

2013 Films, Comedy, Crime Drama, Dark Comedy, Drama

American Hustle-2013

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American Hustle-2013

Director David O. Russell

Starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams

Scott’s Review #39

Reviewed June 18, 2014

Grade: A

Having seen American Hustle (2013) a month ago and finally getting around to reviewing it, it’s a perfect time, as it a reaped a slew of Oscar nominations; more people will undoubtedly be seeing it in the weeks ahead.

I loved this film.

Some were underwhelmed, but I found it quite authentic and stylish.

I loved the 1970’s period and felt the hairstyles, clothes, and props were spot on.

I also felt the film had great acting and, though I’m not a fan, Jennifer Lawrence enraptured me.

The same with Cooper, Bale, and Adams, who all deserve their Oscar nods.

I found it stylistically similar to Boogie Nights, a 1997 masterpiece directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.

The 1970s musical rock score was perfect.

The subject matter of political corruption and cat-and-mouse intrigue was effective and resounding.

Oscar Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director-David O. Russell, Best Actor-Christian Bale, Best Actress-Amy Adams, Best Supporting Actor-Bradley Cooper, Best Supporting Actress-Jennifer Lawrence, Best Original Screenplay, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing

2013 Films, Biography, Drama

Saving Mr. Banks-2013

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Saving Mr. Banks-2013

Director John Lee Hancock

Starring Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson

Scott’s Review #36

Reviewed June 18, 2014

Grade: A-

Saving Mr. Banks (2013) is a movie that transports you back to the wonders of childhood.

It is a delightful, whimsical tale of how the story of “Mary Poppins” made it to the silver screen as a Walt Disney production in the 1960s and there were many challenges.

Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks (as author P.L. Travers and Walt Disney, respectively) prevent this film from being overly sentimental and even sappy, by their character portrayals.

Travers is a difficult, demanding woman, but Thompson adds layers to her so the viewer feels attached and sympathetic.

Tom Hanks portrays Disney to the hilt as patient and understanding. Travers’s backstory is heartfelt and interesting.

Saving Mr. Banks (2013) is a mainstream, Hollywood feature, but one that reeled me in from the get-go and never let up.

Oscar Nominations: Best Original Score

Welcome to my blog!1,555 reviews posted so far! I'm Scott Segrell and I reside in Stamford, CT. My site features hundreds of film reviews I have written since I launched the site in 2014. I hope you enjoy reading my latest reviews or searching for your own favorites to see if we agree. Please see my Recent Posts section, and don't forget to utilize the tags and category links.