2013 Films, Denis Villeneuve, Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello, Melissa Leo, Paul Dano, Terrence Howard, Thriller, Viola Davis

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, taught, psychological tale amid a well-acted stellar cast of Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello, Viola Davis, and Paul Dano for starters.

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

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

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

At two hours and twenty-six minutes, the film is lengthy, but 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 possess a major drawback in the high number of plot holes and questions asked after the film.

The kidnapper’s motivations are weak and never fully explained. Portions of the story do not add up and make little sense.

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

Prisoners (2013) is an intense, thrill ride to be enjoyed, but not over-analyzed.

Oscar Nominations: Best Cinematography

2001 Films, Comedy, French, International, International Comedy, International Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy

Amelie-2001

June 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Amelie-2001

Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet

Starring Audrey Tatou

Scott’s Review #74

Reviewed June 27, 2014

Grade: C+

Amelie (2001) was a major disappointment for me. Critically acclaimed and admired, I did not get this movie at all.

First the positives: this film is French, which gives it an edge for the beautiful language and the setting of France.

The cinematography, art direction, and set design are inventive and unique. The movie has a magical, whimsical feel to it which is appealing.

The story, however, is an enormous drawback.

The central character, a waif-like, sweet, waitress is lonely and feels unloved, yet avoids meeting the man of her dreams by playing a cat-and-mouse game of leaving silly notes and sending him on wild goose chases because she is afraid of happiness, yet she does everything she can to ensure others find happiness.

The story did not work for me at all, but I admire the creativity of the film itself.

Perhaps I should allow myself a second viewing as this film received much fanfare.

Oscar Nominations: Best Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen/Original Screenplay, Best Foreign Language Film, Best Sound, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Foreign Film (won)

1950 Films, Anne Baxter, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Bette Davis, Celeste Holm, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Drama, Gary Merrill, George Sanders, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Marilyn Monroe, Scott's Top 100 Films, Thelma Ritter

All About Eve-1950

June 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

All About Eve-1950

Director Joe Mankiewicz

Starring Bette Davis, Anne Baxter

Top 100 Films #84

Scott’s Review #73

Reviewed June 27, 2014

Grade: A

All About Eve is a cynical masterpiece from 1950 set in the competitive world of the New York theater.

Insecure Margo Channing, played to perfection by Bette Davis, is an aging actress whose career is declining. She meets naïve Eve Harrington, played by Anne Baxter, who insinuates herself into Margo’s life and career.

One interesting facet of this film is how the opening scene is of an acceptance speech by Eve. The look of anger and disdain from the front table gives a good indication of things to come. From there the film backtracks to the first time the two women meet and the story begins.

It is certainly a dark film and jealousy and back-stabbing are common themes throughout as had never been done before set in the world of theater.

One by one, each of Margo’s friends catches on to Eve’s plot, but at what cost?

This is Bette Davis’s comeback performance as a talented Broadway star and she makes the most of the opportunity as she deliciously utters her famous revenge-minded line “Fasten your seat belts. It’s going to be a bumpy night”.

Marilyn Monroe has a cameo role as a debutante in her first film role.

The film deservedly won the 1950 Best Picture Oscar.

Oscar Nominations: 7 wins-Best Motion Picture (won), Best Director-Joseph L. Mankiewicz (won), Best Actress-Anne Baxter, Bette Davis, Best Supporting Actor-George Sanders (won), Best Supporting Actress-Celeste Holm, Thelma Ritter, Best Screenplay (won), Best Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture, Best Sound Recording (won), Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Black-and-White (won), Best Cinematography, Black-and-White, Best Costume Design, Black-and-White (won), Best Film Editing

1974 Films, Drama, Giancarlo Giannini, International, International Drama, Italian, Lina Wertmüller, Mariangela Melato

Swept Away-1974

June 27, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Swept Away-1974

Director Lina Wertmüller

Starring Giancarlo Giannini, Mariangela Melato

Scott’s Review #72

Reviewed June 27, 2014

Grade: B+

Swept Away (1974) is an Italian version of the film remade starring Madonna in 2004.

A wealthy, spoiled woman is stranded on a deserted island with her male servant.

The 1974 film is superb and, at times, deeply disturbing, as scenes of humiliation are almost too much to watch.

The theme is about the class system- the haves and the have-nots and what happens when roles are reversed and individuals are stripped of titles is interesting, shocking, and, at times, troubling.

I was stunned, yet mesmerized, by a very animalistic scene in which a man beats a woman. At first, the man is the sympathetic one and the woman is despised, then the roles are shockingly reversed.

Amazingly, the film was directed by a woman, Lina Wertmüller, a brave, underappreciated German director.

When, inevitably, the pair are rescued and return to normalcy, the plot takes a very dynamic turn.

2013 Films, Ben Falcone, Catherine Keener, Comedy, Independent, Independent Comedy, James Gandolfini, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Nicole Holofcener, Toni Collette

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, who portrays 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. They are both struggling to overcome past relationships and trust someone again so are vulnerable and interesting 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

1999 Films, Allison Janney, Annette Bening, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Chris Cooper, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Kevin Spacey, Mena Suvari, Peter Gallagher, Sam Mendes, Scott Bakula, Scott's Top 100 Films, Thora Birch, Wes Bentley

American Beauty-1999

June 25, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

American Beauty-1999

Director Sam Mendes

Starring Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening

Top 100 Films #65

Scott’s Review #70

Reviewed June 25, 2014

Grade: A

American Beauty is a film that holds up magnificently well and packs the same punch as it did when I originally saw it premiered in 1999.

The film won the Best Picture Oscar in 1999, surprisingly so, as it is not a mainstream film and is edgy, artistic, and poetic.

The film is a thought-provoking story of the American Dream gone wrong and how most people live ordinary, humdrum, on the surface, happy lives, but ultimately are unhappy, damaged, or otherwise unfulfilled.

It is a truthful film and reminds me quite a bit of The Ice Storm, a film from 1997.

American Beauty is not a downer but rather is witty, dark-humored, and filled with dry sarcasm.

Kevin Spacey is tremendous as the central character going through a mid-life crisis and Annette Bening is frighteningly good as his neurotic, controlling wife.

Their daughter, played by Thora Birch, has her teenage angst and falls in love with a neighborhood misfit. Every character, even small and supporting, is troubled in some way.

American Beauty (1999) is a film that was loved or hated at the time of its release; some did not get it or did not want to invest in the thought it requires, but, to me, it’s a work of art, which has achieved a timeless quality.

Oscar Nominations: 5 wins-Best Picture (won), Best Director-Sam Mendes (won), Best Actor-Kevin Spacey (won), Best Actress-Annette Bening, Best Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen (won), Best Original Score, Best Cinematography (won), Best Film Editing

2013 Films, Alfonso Cuarón, Ed Harris, George Clooney, Sandra Bullock, Science Fiction, Thriller

Gravity-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Gravity-2013

Director Alfonso Cuaron

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”.

Due to the hype, I was expecting somewhat 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 did not deliver the goods.

Oscar Nominations: 7 wins-Best Picture, Best Director-Alfonso Cuaron (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)

1956 Films, Drama, Ingrid Bergman, Yul Brynner

Anastasia-1956

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Anastasia-1956

Director Anatole Litvak

Starring Ingrid Bergman, Yul Brynner

Scott’s Review #68

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B+

Anastasia is an exquisitely shot historical drama set in Paris and Denmark circa 1928.

The film tells the true story of a discovered surviving member of the Romanov Dynasty from early 20th century Russia, but is she an imposter or the real heir?

This is the main question that encompasses the film.

The set and art direction are gorgeous.

Ingrid Bergman is flawless as a tortured, lost, amnesiac woman attempting to discover who she is and what she feels- no surprise she took home the Best Actress Oscar this year (1956).

How wonderful to see Helen Hayes (typically a stage actress) as the Dowager Empress. How interesting to see Natalie Schaffer (Lovey Howell of Gilligan’s Island fame) in the film.

My only slight knock is I didn’t sense any chemistry between Bergman and Yul Brynner, but the romantic element is certainly secondary to the interesting period drama.

Every scene is first-rate in production and style and it is a gorgeous film to watch. Every frame looks like a painting.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Actress-Ingrid Bergman (won), Best Music Score of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture

1964 Films, Bette Davis, Karl Malden, Thriller

Dead Ringer-1964

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Dead Ringer-1964

Director Paul Henreid

Starring Bette Davis, Karl Malden

Scott’s Review #67

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B+

Dead Ringer (1964) is a black-and-white thriller from 1964 starring Bette Davis in her final leading role before she took on the character and supporting roles.

It’s an interesting dual role for Davis, and being a huge fan of hers, two are better than one.

The story centers on a wealthy widow and her twin sister, a struggling bar owner. The two have not spoken in decades and renewed their animosity at a funeral.

One of them schemes to cause the other’s death, which results in an entertaining game of mistaken identity.

Davis carries this film and is dynamic in every scene she is in- those eyes, facial expressions, and throaty voice. Her characteristic sexy pose with the cigarette is utilized often.

She is simply dynamic.

The story and plot are carefully crafted and the angles showing both characters are impressive for the time (1964).

The differing lifestyles of the characters also make for a more challenging performance by Davis.

Karl Malden is a treat as a love interest of one of the sisters.

1945 Films, Agatha Christie, Barry Fitzgerald, British, Judith Anderson, Louis Hayward, René Clair, Thriller, Walter Huston

And Then There Were None-1945

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

And Then There Were None-1945

Director René Clair

Starring Barry Fitzgerald, Judith Anderson

Scott’s Review #66

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: C+

And Then There Were None (1945) is adapted from a famous Agatha Christie novel of the same name from the 1930s, the first of 3 film adaptations over the years.

A group of 10 individuals from all walks of life is summoned for a weekend of merriment at a secluded mansion on a lonely island.

The premise is perfectly set up for a fascinating whodunit as the characters are knocked off one by one in sometimes bizarre fashion- the bee sting death is great.

There is a wide range of characters- the rich movie star, the spinster, the doctor, the house servant, and his wife). I was very disappointed with the DVD quality (no Blu-Ray is available for this film).

The picture and sound are abhorrent. The quality is quite grainy and faded making watching an unpleasant experience. However, a great film might withstand those issues.

The film has some appeal that the novel had- an interesting whodunit. The character histories are similar to the ones in the book and, to be fair, the film is well-acted, and the wonderful Judith Anderson (Rebecca) is always a treat to watch.

But the most disappointing aspect is the blatantly changed and completely upbeat, romantic comedy ending, vastly different from the dark novel ending, and lost major points with me for the adjustment.

2002 Films, Gore, H.G. Lewis, Horror, Horror-Camp, Independent, Independent Horror, John Waters, Slasher

Blood Feast 2: All U Can Eat-2002

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Blood Feast 2: All U Can Eat-2002

Director H.G. Lewis

Starring J.P. Delahoussaye, Christy Brown

Scott’s Review #65

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B

Blood Feast 2: All U Can Eat (2002) is a sequel to the original Blood Feast from over thirty years ago.

It is not necessary to see the original before seeing this film (I hadn’t). The original killer’s grandson is the gruesome caterer/maniac in this installment.

Director H.G. Lewis heavily influenced John Waters, who has a fantastic cameo as a perverted reverend. This movie is so over the top and campy that it is not to be taken at all seriously.

The premise, if one can call it that, involves a lunatic caterer intent on using various female body parts to concoct a scrumptious meal to serve at a wedding.

The film is more of a comedy than a horror film in the traditional sense.

The victims are bubbleheads, mispronouncing words and traipsing around in skimpy outfits (or less) for no reason. The mean-spirited mother of the bride is a delight.

Scenes of taste testing and the presentation of “ladyfingers” are hilariously creative.

Campy in every way and poorly acted, but good late-night fun.

2013 Films, Drama, Forest Whitaker, Independent, Independent Drama, Melonie Diaz, Michael B. Jordan, Octavia Spencer, Ryan Coogler

Fruitvale Station-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Fruitvale Station-2013

Director Ryan Coogler

Starring Michael B. Jordan, Octavia Spencer

Scott’s Review #64

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B+

Not knowing all of the details of this incident, but only taking into account the details 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 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, Naomi Watts, Naveen Andrews, Oliver Hirschbiegel

Diana-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Diana-2013

Director Oliver Hirschbiegel

Starring Naomi Watts, Naveen Andrews

Scott’s Review #63

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: C+

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

While the film was 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 not as good as one would have hoped.

2013 Films, Alfre Woodard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Best Feature- Independent Spirit Award Winners, Best Picture Oscar Winners, Brad Pitt, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Lupita Nyong'o, Michael Fassbender, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Quvenzhané Wallis, Sarah Paulson, Steve McQueen-Director

12 Years a Slave-2013

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

12 Years a Slave-2013

Director Steve McQueen

Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael Fassbender

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 a book was written on the subject by the real Solomon Northup 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 it for seemingly an eternity until an action occurs, 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)

1959 Films, Drama, George C. Scott, James Stewart, Lee Remick, Otto Preminger

Anatomy of a Murder-1959

June 24, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Anatomy of a Murder-1959

Director Otto Preminger

Starring James Stewart, Lee Remick

Scott’s Review #61

Reviewed June 24, 2014

Grade: B+

Anatomy of a Murder (1959) is a thought-provoking, courtroom/legal thriller that is not a black-and-white, good and bad story.

It is deeper and more complex than that.

Starring James Stewart as an everyman defense attorney, the film, shot effectively in black and white, pushed barriers for its time by using certain words such as “rape” and “panties” that were never spoken in films before this time.

Much of the action takes place inside the courtroom.

The film pushed the envelope and is still enjoyable today.

Throughout the film, which is admittedly slow at times, the audience finds itself unsure of the guilt of the defendant and is wary and suspicious of him from the start, which makes for great drama.

The rooting value is with Stewart, who is the hero, and the interesting supporting cast provides deeper layers than similar type films that run the risk of being wordy or preachy.

As each new fact or twist and turn arrives throughout the film, it becomes more and more engaging until it reaches a satisfying climax.

Oscar Nominations: Best Motion Picture, Best Actor-James Stewart, Best Supporting Actor-Arthur O’Connell, George C. Scott, Best Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium, Best Cinematography, Black-and-White, Best Film Editing

1979 Films, Horror, James Brolin, Margot Kidder

The Amityville Horror-1979

June 23, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Amityville Horror-1979

Director Stuart Rosenberg

Starring James Brolin, Margot Kidder

Scott’s Review #60

Reviewed June 23, 2014

Grade: B-

The Amityville Horror was undoubtedly more thrilling upon its original release in 1979, but sadly, the time has not been kind to this particular film, as it does not hold up well any longer.

It feels dated, but that is not to say it is at all un-enjoyable.

The atmosphere of the movie and the building tension and sense of dread are effective. The audience knows bad things will eventually occur.

The look of the film is dark and creepy and actors James Brolin and Margot Kidder are adequate in the lead roles.

The main problem with the film is all along there is a feeling that I am watching a pale version of The Exorcist (1973) or The Omen (1976), far superior films, with the religious theme that was heavily used in the horror genre throughout the 1970s.

Also, horror in 1970’s cinema was at its best, and by 1979, horror had shifted into the knife-wielding maniac vein.

Add to this the fact that the supposedly “true story” has since been proven a silly hoax, so it takes away any shred of seriousness.

To be fair, the scene involving the herd of flies is scary, but other scenes seem silly and inconsequential.

The Amityville Horror (1979) is not a bad movie, but similar films are far superior.

Oscar Nominations: Best Original Score

2012 Films, Documentary, Peter Nicks

The Waiting Room-2012

June 23, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Waiting Room-2012

Director Peter Nicks

Starring Cynthia Y. Johnson, Eric Morgan

Scott’s Review #59

Reviewed June 23, 2014

Grade: B+

The Waiting Room (2012) is an interesting documentary that takes the viewer on a day in the life shift in a very busy public hospital in a poor section of Oakland, California.

Most of the patients are uninsured, low-paid, or unemployed workers, who are sick and in need of medications and treatment and in some cases are quite ill.

The documentary balances the perspectives of both the patients and the weary hospital staff, who strive to prioritize cases and treat everyone, which is not easy due to overcrowding and underfunding.

I found the documentary quite fascinating and felt like I was an actual observer during a chaotic, yet everyday experience in the busy and stressful Emergency Room.

The situations that arise are heartbreaking and the staff does their very best to accommodate each patient, but many times tragedy ensues or tempers flare due to frustration.

It speaks volumes of the shameless world of United States insurance company profits and selfishness at the cost of human lives and patient suffering.

Sadly, The Waiting Room (2012) was overlooked by the Oscar Academy but did receive an Independent Spirit nomination.

Independent Spirit Award Nominations: 1 win-Best Documentary Feature, Truer Than Fiction Award (won)

2012 Films, Brian De Palma, Noomi Rapace, Rachel McAdams, Thriller

Passion-2012

June 23, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Passion-2012

Director Brian De Palma

Starring Rachel McAdams, Noomi Rapace

Scott’s Review #58

Reviewed June 23, 2014

Grade: A

Passion (2012) is a must-see for all Brian De Palma fans, Carrie (1976), and Dressed to Kill (1980).

Unfortunately, the film received little fanfare and is mostly forgotten, but it deserves a viewing.

The film is set in the world of advertising, where backstabbing and scheming are commonplace.

Rachel McAdams stars as an executive who steals her assistant’s (Noomi Rapace) ideas regularly. Fed up, the assistant plots revenge.

McAdams is delicious as the callous, calculating, little girl over her head in the corporate world.

The praise goes to DePalma, though, for creating yet another stylistic gem similar in tone to many of his other successful films.

The plot is almost secondary to the direction- twists and turns, and cool camera angles make the film an enjoyable experience. A common DePalma trait is a dreamlike feel which I love in his films.

The ending is a direct homage to Dressed to Kill.

2011 Films, Australian, Crime Drama, Daniel Henshall, Drama, Justin Kurzel, Louise Harris, Thriller

The Snowtown Murders-2011

June 23, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Snowtown Murders-2011

Director Justin Kurzel

Starring Lucas Pittaway, Daniel Henshall

Scott’s Review #57

Reviewed June 23, 2014

Grade: C+

The Snowtown Murders (2011) is an Australian film, based on a true story, of a charismatic, manipulative man who influences a family of misfits into following his murderous streak.

The film is helped by a group of very talented actors (unknowns to me) who successfully relay a sense of bleakness and despair in their lives and some fine, emotional acting makes this film slightly above average.

The entire look of the movie is dreary, raw, and hopeless, from the lighting to the camera shots. The details of the film are impressive- from the confined, dismal house the family lives in, and the unhealthy meals consumed, all are filled with a sense of chaos.

The Snowtown Murders pushes the envelope with the explicitness of the murders and torture scenes, so the viewer is left feeling uncomfortable.

The downside of the movie is that it drags at times and meanders along at a plodding pace adding to the discomfort.

I’m not sure if this is intentional or not, but it harmed me.

1969 Films, Drama, Genevieve Bujold, Joseph O'Conor, Richard Burton

Anne of the Thousand Days-1969

June 22, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Anne of the Thousand Days-1969

Director Charles Jarrott

Starring Richard Burton, Genevieve Bujold

Scott’s Review #56

Reviewed June 22, 2014

Grade: A-

Anne of the Thousand Days (1969) is one of the better historical dramas I have seen.

One could become absorbed in the history of royalty and learn much. It has a clear Shakespearean quality to it (tragedy) and is compelling in many ways.

It tells the true story of the tumultuous relationship between Henry VIII of England and his second wife Anne Boleyn, whose union produced one of the most famous queens, Elizabeth I. Henry VIII’s first wife, Katherine, is discarded amid much controversy and political intrigue.

The drama is part of what makes this film so interesting, along with the historical element. It is dramatic, but not a soap opera, and the acting is superior.

The film has gorgeous costumes and cinematography too.

Unfortunately, the finale of the beheading left too much to the imagination and a more graphic scene would have put it over the top.

Near excellent though.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Picture, Best Actor-Richard Burton, Best Actress-Genevieve Bujold, Best Supporting Actor-Anthony Quayle, Best Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium, Best Original Score for a Motion Picture (Not a Musical), Best Sound, Best Costume Design (won), Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography

2014 Films, Thriller

Non-Stop-2014

June 22, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Non-Stop-2014

Director-Jaume Collet-Serra

Starring-Liam Neeson, Julianne Moore

Scott’s Review #55

Reviewed June 22, 2014

Grade: B-

I am a sucker for a good airline disaster action film. I found Non-Stop to have 2 parts- the first 1 hour and 15 minutes and the final 30 minutes.

A film like this (action, popcorn flick) requires suspension of disbelief.

The events in this film will NEVER happen.

In recent years, Liam Neeson, at 60 years old plus, has settled nicely into action hero star in mediocre to above-average film roles. He has found his niche.

The first part of the film is highly entertaining- 150 passengers on board an international flight from New York to London are in peril when a terrorist begins texting troubled U.S. Air Marshall (Neeson) that someone on the flight will die every 20 minutes unless 150 million dollars is transferred to their account.

From this point begins a compelling whodunit.

Which passenger is sending the text messages? Could it be a flight attendant or the captain of the plane? Several characters are introduced and some red herrings commence. Who begins framing the Marshall? Why?

This is compelling fun stuff.

Most of the action takes place on the plane giving the film a claustrophobic atmosphere.

Then, however, the second part of the film takes over. Not to give spoilers away, but it reaches a ridiculous, silly conclusion, and I found myself saying out loud, “this is stupid”.

A needless and contrived plot of a little girl on the flight is trivial.

Michelle Dockery of Downton Abbey fame I expected more from and Lupita N’Yongo is given a throwaway role (let’s assume she was cast before her Oscar-winning turn in 12 Years a Slave).

Popcorn fun, but disappointing ending summarizes this film.

2013 Films, Biography, Denis O'Hare, Drama, Independent, Independent Drama, Jared Leto, Jean-Marc Vallée, Jennifer Garner, LGBTQ+ Drama, LGBTQ+ Films, Matthew McConaughey, Steve Zahn

Dallas Buyers Club-2013

June 22, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Dallas Buyers Club-2013

Director Jean-Marc Vallee

Starring Matthew McConaughey, Jared Leto

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 main appeal of the film 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, so the fear and the judgments featured in the film must be kept in mind for the time it was and the 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)

1975 Films, Drama

Mandingo-1975

June 21, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Mandingo-1975

Director Richard Fleischer

Starring James Mason, Susan George

Scott’s Review #53

Reviewed June 21, 2014

Grade: B+

Mandingo is quite a controversial film from 1975 and inspirational to Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained and also to 12 Years a Slave, as it is very similar to the latter of those films.

It centers on a family of southern slave owners who eventually have physical relations and even romantic, loving relationships with their slaves.

There is also a sub-plot involving bare-knuckle fights to the death among the male slaves that is disturbing to witness.

The entire film is extreme and difficult at times, but also has a mystical, dreamlike element to it and is in no way an exploitation film.

The sticky, hot, deep southern setting adds a wonderful atmosphere. The romances are an interesting facet of the film, which I have never seen in similarly themed movies.

There is one sympathetic slave owner, but happily, the others get their comeuppance, one by one, which is delightful to watch.

Mandingo (1975) is an interesting film because it inspires others to follow it and shows how far we have come as a society.

1968 Films, Bette Davis, British, Camp, Comedy, Dark Comedy

The Anniversary-1968

June 21, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

The Anniversary-1968

Director Roy Ward Baker

Starring Bette Davis

Scott’s Review #52

Reviewed June 21, 2014

Grade: B+

The Anniversary (1968) is a British film based on a play of the same name.

The story centers on the Taggert family reunion celebrating the anniversary of the matriarch (Bette Davis) and the deceased patriarch.

The film is set like a play and most of the action takes place inside the Taggert family mansion.

The film is all Davis and she gives a deliciously over-the-top performance as a vicious mother intent on controlling her son’s lives and terrorizing their wives or significant others with cutting remarks and insults.

Davis must have had fun with this role as her storied career was clearly on the downturn and this role allowed her to let loose. One must wonder if Davis chewed up the actors in the cast as much as the characters- rumor has it she was quite intimidating to her fellow actors and a terror to work with which adds to the macabre enjoyment.

Her physical appearance of an eye patch, wig, cigarette, and bright red lipstick all work in her favor. Her maniacal laugh is incredibly campy and wonderful to watch.

Bette Davis is one of the greats and this late-career romp is fun to watch.

1955 Films, Gloria Grahame, Musical, Rod Steiger, Shirley Jones

Oklahoma!-1955

June 20, 2014 scottmet99 Leave a comment

Oklahoma! -1955

Director Fred Zinneman

Starring Gordon MacRae, Shirley Jones, Rod Steiger

Scott’s Review #51

Reviewed June 20, 2014

Grade: A-

Oklahoma is one of a slew of memorable Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals to emerge from the 1950s and 1960s Hollywood and to be based on a popular stage version.

The film has an old-west, homespun, comfortable appeal to it. and is best watched during the summer months.

While seeming a bit too hokey and not my favorite musical as compared to other more sophisticated stalwarts such as My Fair Lady, An American in Paris, or The Sound of Music, Oklahoma does emit a flavor and tasteful appeal of the West.

The plot focuses on a love triangle between a good old boy, Curly, a good girl, Laurey Williams, and brooding Jud, though the real rooting couple is Curly and Laurey.

The trio is supported by a large array of townspeople both gossiping about and helping Curly and Laurey admit their true feelings and come together as a couple. Of course, Jud is the villain and conflicts come into play throughout the production.

There is also a lesser couple, Will Parker and Ado Annie, who find their way into each other’s arms amid the traditional small-town events such as a lively, summer fair.

Stars Gordon MacRae (Curly) and Shirley Jones (Laurey) are both very handsome and likable in the lead roles making for a nice pairing.

Gloria Grahame is very appealing and comical as Ado Annie, especially in her rousing turn bellowing out “I Can’t Say No”, and Charlotte Greenwood is the moral voice of reason as Aunt Eller.

What works best in the film are the settings of Oklahoma, as the viewer experiences such a feel for life in the heartland long ago (though the exteriors were shot in Arizona).

It’s pure fantasy enjoyment and there is a magical Wizard of Oz feel to it- though no cyclone nor munchkins are anywhere in sight. The film version closely follows the original stage version.

The musical numbers are quite catchy (“Oh What a Beautiful Morning”, “I Can’t Say No”, and “Oklahoma” are my favorites). The controversial mid-number “Dream Ballet” is quite provocative artistically enjoyable and jarringly different from the rest of the traditional tale.

This jaw-dropping number most certainly is on par with a similar spectacle in An American in Paris.

Perhaps Oklahoma is not quite on par with other musicals of its day, but pretty close.

Oscar Nominations: 2 wins-Best Scoring of a Musical Picture (won), Best Sound Recording (won), Best Cinematography, Color, Best Film Editing

Welcome to my blog! 1,425 + reviews posted so far! My name is Scott Segrell and I reside in Stamford, CT. My blog is a diverse site featuring tons of film reviews I have written since I launched my site in 2014. I hope you enjoy perusing the site for latest or greatest films or to search for your own favorites to see how we compare. Please take a look at my featured sections at the top of the page which change often! Utilize the tags and category links.