Movie Review: Role Models

ROLE MODELS
Main Players: Paul Rudd, Seann William Scott, Elizabeth Banks, et al.
Calling the shots: David Wain
Running time: 99mins
What's it about? After getting in trouble with the law following a bad day, instead of serving time in jail, they are sentenced to 150hours of community service. It comes in the form of Sturdy Wings a Big Brother program. Let the fun begin.

What did I think? Absolutely hilarious! This is the stuff comedies should be made of. You get exactly what you paid for in this very formula tic but consistently funny movie.

Nothing about this movie is “new” per se. You’ve seen this movie before. So much so that you can easily see the structure of it and where it is ultimately heading. But none of that really matter because they make up for it with great heart and laugh out loud moments over and over again. There is only ever a lull in proceeding due to the expected “turmoil” that always happens but it doesn’t last long.

This mostly in part thanks to the tight plot. With all the talk about bullshit, there really is none. So the pacing of the film is good and as I said the jokes keep on coming.

It also comes in many forms. The two leads, Rudd and Scott, share great chemistry and comedic timing. Their bickering and childish fighting even seems natural and funny. Then you have the two kids, “McLovin” and the black kid, who make you laugh in their own ways (nerdish and swearing kid). You also have great supporting talent, especially in the form of Jane Lynch, as the BS talking former coke addict guidance counselor. She probably takes the cake for the best lines in the movie.

It’s not a “good” movie in the traditional sense, but it is great value for money and one of the better comedies around. If you’re out for a laugh, you won’t be disappointed. It’s like “Superbad”-lite in terms of the humour but no where near as crude…or gross.

A fresh, consistent and incredibly hilarious comedy disguised as a typical run of the mill comedy. Catch it before it finishes…or at least on DVD once it comes out.

80%

Movie Review: Valkyrie

VALKYRIE
Main Players: Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, et al.
Calling the shots: Bryan Singer
Running time: 120mins
What's it about? Not everyone in Germany agreed with Hitler during the Second World War. In fact, there were more than 20 known attempts on his life from within. This is the story about the last attempt. We know what happens, but at least they tried.

What did I think? More than anything else, this is a very interesting movie in terms of its story line. History buffs will lap it up. Unfortunately for the movie, it never out does its subject matter making this movie more intriguing rather than great…or even (barely) good.

I can’t emphasis the story enough. It really is fascinating. We all knew the world hated Hitler, but to know it came so close to ending for him from within is truly amazing. At least not all of Germany agreed with his ways and that’s probably a stereotype and hence why they are so apologetic about the past. It’s a shame then, that this movie didn’t have the feel, the “umph” that films like this should have.

It all comes down to two things: the casting and the directing.

The cast, asides from Tom Cruise, is a powerhouse British cast if ever I saw one. Cruise is in a controlled acting mode here but you can’t help but feel as though he wants to break out, Tom Cruise-Style! He probably couldn’t have a better supporting cast around him, with everyone playing their roles well. But why the British cast playing Germans? They’ve completely ditched the concept of accents, and rather than speaking in a German accent, or even in a neutral one, they speak in a British one. That kind of threw me off. They also start with Cruise speaking in German but quickly ditch it for American English.

As much as I love Bryan Singers work, this isn’t his type of movie. He creates a stylish, well presented Hollywood blockbuster but nothing more. You can’t help but feel that in better hands, we’d be talking about Oscars for this thing. Say…if Spielberg directed it (not that he’d ever direct a movie about the Nazis).

As the movie rolls on, you can forgive the accents and enjoy the tense thriller-aspect of the movie. We all know the outcome, but it doesn’t make it any less compelling. It just won’t leave you as satisfied as it should.

60%

Movie Review: Bride Wars

BRIDE WARS
Main Players: Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway, Candice Bergen, et al.
Calling the shots: Gary Winick
Running time: 94mins
What's it about? Two best friends, Liv and Emma, who are both set to get married, book the town’s best wedding planner. Unfortunately, their weddings are booked on the same day, at the same time, at the same place. Neither is willing to sacrifice their day for the other. Let the war begin.

What did I think? Anyone who knows me well knows that I like my fair share of romcoms and chick flicks. I can even take them romantic dramas and tear-jerkers. But this…this is just pure rubbish. And it is somewhat of a shame because both Hudson and Hathaway are appealing in normal circumstances.

Where to start…a movie like this really is made for chicks. Yet in usual chick flick fair, there is at least some appeal for the blokes that get dragged into it. Whether it be: attractive leads (check) or a decent amount of laughs that they can relate to (big fat cross) or is even slightly funny (a bigger fat cross). This has zero appeal and therefore quickly became a very painful experience.

Hudson and Hathaway are as advertised. Both a beautiful and they can both carry a movie. They do the very best that they can with what they have to work with in terms of the plot, because it isn’t very good. Candice Bergen (from TV’s Boston Legal) is on cruise control, doing not much at all. And there’s hardly anyone else in this movie of note.

The other thing is that, all the male characters look the same. And asides from the three main blokes, the others all seemed gay…but that could just be my boredom playing up.

The plot tries to keep it interesting with some plot turns and character developments, which if anything, seem completely out of place and totally misguided. It needed to end somehow and what they came up with is a bit of a muddled mess.

There are a few moments that show some potential but that is very short lived and returns to its true self, a complete dribble. I initially thought this movie would do well, but after having sat through it (I wanted to see Role Models dammit, but I was out voted), I’d be surprised if this even hits the top three range. See it at your own peril.

20%

Movie Review: The Wrestler

THE WRESTLER
Main Players: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood, et al.
Calling the shots: Darren Aronofsky
Running time: 115mins
What's it about? Randy “The Ram” Robinson is washed up. He has passed his “best before” date and wrestles on weekends to (barely) make ends meet. When health issues become a factor, he must choose between making amends with the people in his life and living life, or go for the ultimate glory in one final bout.

What did I think? Please welcome, from the depth of obscurity and time wasted on misguided pursuits, Mickey Rourke! Last seen in “Sin City” (which was good) but pretty much in acting purgatory before that, he has well and truly returned in grand fashion and has a Gold Globe to prove it.

The movie itself is not out of the ordinary. Actually, if anything, it’s a fairly standard drama that is rather depressing if you think about Randy’s missed opportunities and errors of his ways. Just when things start looking good for him, he blows it by falling back into bad habits and then is unable to get out again. You really can’t blame him for the decisions he makes and is all the more sympathetic for it.

Mickey’s performance though will quite literally blow you away. He certainly looks the part (of a wrestler), but it’s the emotion he brings to the screen. He is a beaten down piece of meat and he knows it (he wears hearing aids when he’s not wrestling for Christ sake). When he makes his final speech (apparently self penned) it’s almost like his talking about himself and it is very heartfelt.

The film is also made very stylishly. Almost like a documentary/behind the scenes type effect. It shows complete appreciation for the sport of pro wrestling and any wrestling fan will appreciate the detail and honesty that is brought to the screen (see things like the comradely in the locker room, the blading techniques, etc.) but it never overshadows the movie itself.

The other two actors of note, Tomei and Wood are also quite fantastic. Tomei playing a stripper and possibly he’s only friend, literally bares all and is a constant support. Wood, playing the estranged daughter is equal parts angry and longing for that father figure.

It’s not a happy film. But it’s a film you can most definitely enjoy; from the opening scene to the emotion-filled end. You’ll be in for a ride.

80%

Movie Review: Bedtime Stories

BEDTIME STORIES
Main Players: Adam Sandler, Keri Russell, Russell Brand, et al.
Calling the shots: Adam Shankman
Running time: 99mins
What's it about? Skeeter’s grown up in the hotel business. He is a maintenance man but dreams of being more. When he has to look after his nephew and niece for the week, he tells them bedtime stories that, as strange as they are, begin coming true. He tries to manipulate the stories to his benefit with funny consequences.

What did I think? He mentioned on Letterman that he wanted to make a film that his children could watch and it’s safe to say Adam Sandler has succeeded in doing that. It’s not going to blow anyone out of the water but it’s a most fun and enjoyable family film.

It has an amazing premise. The stuff you literally dream about as a child. What you make up starts coming true, how awesome is that?! They use that to full effect and the creative juices continue to flow. Mind you, they use every cliché in the book (medieval, cowboy, space) but it will definitely entertain kids and parents a like.

The list of actors is great. Adam Sandler does a toned down version of himself but still feels comfortable enough. Russell Brand is hilarious as his best friend. The random outburst and the general weirdness he has will have you laughing each time he is on screen. Guy Pearce and Lucy Lawless play the villainous roles, and you can’t help but wonder what Pearce is doing in a film like this but he does a decent job. Rob Schneider also makes his usual “you can do it” type-cameo.

It’s also entertaining to see the various actors in the various roles, depending on the fantasy sequence and if they look at all uncomfortable, at least they look like they are having fun doing it.

I’ve grown out of kids/family movies (so I keep telling myself, but not animations. Never animations…) but this is quite fun and entertaining. It’s definitely funny enough and will only slightly bore you. Bugsy summarises the movie well, cute and amusing but by the end you’re glad it’s over.

Mainly for Sandler fans and those kids inside us; it’s not particularly good but not a complete waste either.

60%

Movie Review: Frost/Nixon

FROST/NIXON
Main Players: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, et al.
Calling the shots: Ron Howard
Running time: 122mins
What's it about? After the Watergate scandal that forced President Nixon to resign, the whole of America (and the world) was waiting for an explanation; the truth. It never came. British TV presenter, David Frost gets an interview with the former president to see if he can get the answer the people so desperately want.

What did I think? I know the year is still young but here is the first best movie for 2009! I expect this movie to rake in some awards come this award season and it will be worthy of it.

You hear the premise (two guys talking) and it doesn’t seem all that thrilling. Trust me when I tell you, this is so much more than that. Though the inevitable face-off is what you’re waiting to see, everything around the interview (the lead-up, aftermath) plays just a vital and integral part of the film. If you are even slightly interested in one of the biggest events in our history this is a must see.

Mind you, that doesn’t mean you need to know what ‘Watergate’ actually means. There is enough background and you’ll get the gist of the situation.

The movie itself is almost flawless. Top-to-bottom, it is made so well you have to appreciate Ron Howard and the job his done here. Adapted from a stage play, the dialogue and plot is always engaging. There’s also a nice even flow to proceedings meaning it never lags and there is a lot of surprising humour amongst the drama, ensuring you are never bored.

Langella (nominated for a Golden Globe) embodies Nixon completely. Though not looking like him, he definitely plays the part. Sheen, Rockwell, Platt, Bacon, the list of talent roles on. There is no one that lets this film down and it is made all the more impressive with the fact that they are playing real life characters.

The film has almost a “making of” feel to it; with interviews with the characters thrown in to enhance the narrative. As I mentioned earlier though the interview itself is the main event and as it is described in the movie, it’s almost like a boxing match, the two combatants trading blows.

This movie is sure to leave a lasting impression as Nixon’s amazing revelation does. You’ll need to go on a hunt but it’d be a crying shame to miss this movie.

100%

Movie Review: Yes Man

YES MAN
Main Players: Jim Carrey, Zooey Deschanel, Bradley Cooper, et al.
Calling the shots: Peyton Reed
Running time: 104mins
What's it about? Simple, really. Carl plays life safe by saying “no” to almost every opportunity given to him. He is persuaded to attend an almost cult-like seminar, where saying “yes” is to live your life. He decides to give it a go with some funny outcomes and surprising results but as all comedies go, it starts to bite him back.

What did I think? This is vintage Jim Carrey. It’s almost has a nostalgic feel. His last physical comedy effort came in 05 with “Fun with Dick and Jane”, so it’s been a long time between drinks and it’s good to see a man do what he does best.

Obviously though, there’s a problem that lies there as well. As inspired as the initial idea for the movie is (a no man becomes a yes man) the movie falls back into the trap of becoming a very familiar, a much repeated, formulaic comedy; relying heavily on Carrey’s rubbery face and physical craziness to create the laughs, rather than the funny situations that it starts out with.

Having said that though, there are plenty of laughs to be had and at its very best, it’s absolutely hilarious (Deschanel’s band’s lyrics are hilarious). But the turning point half way through the movie feels very forced and because of that it loses the momentum it had created.

It has a fantastic cast of comedic actors. Rhys Darby steals most of his scenes as his nerdy boss; John Michael Higgins does his usual obsessed/crazed act, “That 70’s Show” alum Danny Masterson essentially plays Hyde. It’s also good to see Bradley Cooper in a non-asshole role and Zooey Deschanel is, as usual, her kooky, adorable self. Terence Stamp is awesome as the cult leader and seems to be having fun playing it manically.

There is a lot going for this movie. And it’s almost a step away from becoming something special. If only the Hollywood honchos weren’t so afraid to let it loose. Instead you get a re-cycled comedy that is, as funny as it is, very tired and very, very safe.

It is worthy of your time if you want to laugh but not much else; enjoyable enough without doing much else for you.

60%

Movie Review: Seven Pounds

SEVEN POUNDS
Main Players: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson, Woody Harrelson, et al.
Calling the shots: Gabriele Muccino
Running time: 123mins
What's it about? An IRS agent with a tragic past and a fateful secret is on an extraordinary journey of redemption by forever changing the lives seven random strangers, who are all decent people in unfortunate circumstances.

What did I think? To give away any more of the plot will give away the movie so a short and sweet description this time. And much like the trailer, the first half of the movie is just as ambiguous and mysterious as it can get.

This movie is literally like a really good poker player. It plays its cards really close to its chest and you can’t tell what is really going on until it decides to show its hand. The beauty of it though, is that with its performances and direction, the intrigue is definitely there and you may not know what is going on exactly, but you know it’s big and so you’re dying to find out.

Everything leading up to the climax is built up and constructed so well, that once all is finally revealed, it is done so spectacularly well. It is both very touchingly and very satisfyingly.

Hollywood’s ‘Mr. Money-in-the-Bank’ Smith is back on his drama ground here, re-teaming with his “Pursuit of Happyness” director, he at times feels awkward but settles right in as the movie goes on. The supporting cast do a marvelous job also, particularly Rosario Dawson (her second time with Smith), who I’ve never seen in a better role than this. Woody and Barry Pepper also bring some experience and emotion to their roles as required.

Regular movie goers be warned. It’s not your typical movie. As I mentioned, in the first half of the movie not a whole lot is revealed. Like a 5000 piece jigsaw, the picture comes clearer slowly. Stay focused and you’ll enjoy the breakthrough. There is enough intrigue to keep you interested…I hope.

For those playing at home; yes, Will gets topless. Yes, he has a shower scene. And yes, he runs a lot. Three things he seems to always do in his movies lately.

It’s a step in a completely different direction from “Hancock” but it’s a good step. Stick with this movie to the end and it’s sure to reward you. I’m a Will Smith fan (but who isn’t?) so I may be slightly biased but I enjoyed this film.

80%

Movie Review: Marley & Me

MARLEY & ME

Main Players: Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric Dane, et al.

Calling the shots: David Frankel

Running time: 120mins

What's it about? John and Jen has just gotten married. They've just moved into their first home and both have comfy jobs (if it's not doing exactly what they would like). They are ready for the next step, but before children, they decide to get a pup. Little do they know, they are about to pick up a "clearance puppy" that will change their lives forever. Cue the laughter, love and the inevitable.

What did I think? This one is a little hit and miss for my liking. I've revealed that I'm a big kid at heart. But I also enjoy my fair share of rom-coms and just romantic dribble in general (who didn't ball their eyes out in "The Notebook", c'mon!).

It's a more mature romantic/comedy/drama and it's not funny enough for an Owen Wilson movie and too tear-jerky for a Jennifer Aniston movie. Irony is, as sad as the ending is, you are given plenty of time to prepare for it because you know it's coming.

Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston do share a nice chemistry and it's part of the reason this movie is watchable. Fans of either won't be too disappointed with their efforts unless you are particularly after the stereotypes I mentioned before. They are well supported by some strong actors, non bigger than Alan Arkin who continues his dive into comedies (more or less) with success. Eric Dane is also good as the guy Owen Wilson's character "could have been" and dog trainer Kathleen Turner literally steal the scene with her (now) "plus-size" frame.

But the real stars of the movie are the dogs (I've been told 22 of them) that play the role of Marley. Incredibly adorably cute as a pup, huge and destructive but also caring as a full grown and old and ready to go later on. Marley literally is the heart of the movie and it's often his antics that will make you laugh, smile and cry through out the movie. He literally is the world's worst dog you'll ever love.

The movie does drag in parts. With a massive running time for this kind of movie, it almost out stays it's welcome. But thankfully, for the most part it's well handle by all involved.

#1 with a bullet in the US, it's unlikely it'll repeat that kind of success in Australia but it's a safe movie to take your date to...or your dog.

50%

Movie Review: Bolt

BOLT
Main Players: (voices of) John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Susie Essman, et al.
Calling the shots: Byron Howard & Chris Williams
Running time: 96mins
What's it about? Raised on a TV set, Bolt thinks everything he does on TV he can actually do. When his owner Penny is kidnapped on the show, Bolt escapes from the studios to save her. He soon learns the rough ways of the real world and instead learns to be a normal dog. With the help of a streetwise cat and a manic fan hamster, he makes his way home.

What did I think? I’ve said recently that I love my animations, so this one was a no brainer for me to see. Unfortunately I didn’t see it in 3D (I still want to, so let me know if anyone wants to) because in 3D it probably would have been better.

As enjoyable as this was, it was a little disappointing to find that the laughs weren’t as consistent. From the trailers, I expected it to be funny all the way through and though the funny moments are hilarious, they were too far in between for my liking. It instead settled comfortably into the usual family-oriented entertainment that Disney can now produce with their eyes closed.

Having said that, it starts with a BANG! The opening sequence of the actual show within-the-movie is incredibly exciting. It’d be a show I’d definitely watch. So compared to this explosive start, the rest of the movie feels a little slower but as I mentioned before is a well told story much in the vain of ‘The Incredibles’.

They have also perfected the art of cuteness. Little Bolt is absolutely adorable and when he learns to be a dog by doing the “puppy-dog eyes” it is cute and funny at the same time. The animation itself is incredible and attention to detail is insane. See the way the pigeons talk and move; it’s spotless.

John Travolta does well as the voice of Bolt as does the rest of the cast, who are all cast perfectly. Though Miley is probably a little underutilized, except for the obvious song that she is probably forced to sing for the soundtrack. The hamster probably steals most of the movie, though most of his funny lines are given away in the trailer.

It’s a safe crowd pleaser that doesn’t try to do anything it can’t. So as a side effect, it won’t blow you away but will entertain you like only Disney animations can and you will also walk away being a fan of BOLT!

60%