I have extremely strong feelings about the modern age of horror films. It is because of this that I was hesitant to watch any of the Conjuring movies. However, I saw Annabelle: Creation in the theater, and I enjoyed it very much. That being said, I just recently watched the original Annabelle movie and, while it does have some plot issues, the atmosphere and tone have a genuinely creepy feel that will give you chills.
Annabelle is the story of a married couple who experience supernatural occurrences involving a vintage doll. One of the major elements I enjoy about the film is how traumatizing these supernatural events are for this couple. It is affecting their marriage so much that they seek out guidance from an occult librarian and a priest. This is a horrifying journey for these characters, and you feel that horror every step of the way. However, there are a number of plot holes do hinder the film. Early on in the film we learn that John Form (Ward Horton) is in medical school. However, we have not seen any prior evidence of this, and it feels forced that they put that in the film. Also, when Mia (Annabelle Wallis) receives the Annabelle doll as a gift, she reacts with phrases as, "I can't believe you found it!". Found it from where??? The box did not even have a label on it!! Later in the film, Mia talks to John about certain things she discussed with Father Perez (Tony Amendola) in their first meeting. Yet, certain things she says she discussed WERE NOT discussed. Then, at one point in the film John gets a new job but instead of actually seeing a scene that reveals this, it is only merely implied. Also, John and Mia move to different residences a couple of times throughout the film, and yet continue to go to the same church. Perhaps it is just me, but I would attempt to find a church closer to where I live. Also, it seems forced that all of a sudden Mia and Evelyn (Alfre Woodard) are good enough friends that Mia would let Evelyn into her home. They just met a few days ago!!! These plot holes do hinder the film quite a bit, however I also feel that the director, John R. Leonetti, gives such an eerie and creepy feel to the movie that it makes it watchable.
John R. Leonetti is the director of Annabelle. The tone that Leonetti set for this film is the other reason I enjoy this film. I have been openly critical that modern horror films rely too much on gore and jump scares, but Leonetti creates great visual tension with the camera and puts the jump scares in unexpected places. This film is so creepy to watch. He also takes nods from films like The Exorcist and Poltergeist to give the film a classic horror genre vibe. There are two quite memorable sequences in this movie: the elevator scene and the final sequence in Mia and Johns' apartment. The elevator scene is shot in one take, and that makes you feel tense just watching. The final sequence in the apartment also has great long cuts that do not shy away from the horrific things that are happening. The lighting and lack of music in this sequence make is especially scary. This is a solid directorial outing by Leonetti.
Annabelle has a cluster of plot issues. However there is no denying that the tone of this film helps keep it on point, even if it is only by a bit. If you are a fan of the Conjuring film series, or if you are looking for a half decent modern horror film, you should give this movie a chance.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
The Heartbreak of Silence
I always enjoy watching foreign films. It broadens my perspective on film-making, and it also encourages me that movies can be so much more than just entertainment. Movies can impact you emotionally, and make you think about things that are happening in the world or in your life. Blackrock is one of those kinds of movies.
Blackrock is the story of a group of surfers whos friendship is tested after one of them witnesses a local schoolgirl get raped and murdered. I like the way this film unfolds because you see how close all of these friends are. They may get on each others nerves sometimes, but in the end all is forgiven because these guys are like family. I also like the side story with Jareds' (Laurence Breuls) mother, Diane (Linda Cropper). This element of the film adds an extra element of drama to the film that makes you care about Jared even more. This is a powerful film that makes you question where you stand between loyalty and truth.
Laurence Breuls plays Jared. I love Jareds' character arc in the film because for a majority of the film he struggles with whether to stay loyal to his friends or go to the authorities about what he saw. This also affects his relationship with his mother because he is being emotionally distant at a time when she needs him around. Breuls is solid in the role, and his character provides the necessary emotional weight. The scene where he confesses to his mother that he witnessed what happened to the schoolgirl is so powerful because of Breuls' performance. Every subtlety in his facial expressions and voice tone makes Jared as a character feel more human. I enjoyed watching Breuls develop this character very much.
Linda Cropper plays Jareds' mother, Diane. I like this character because she is one of the few people in Jareds' life that is attempting to get him to talk about what happened. I think that Jared wants to tell her, and that she knows he wants to tell her. Also, she is going through something personal in her life as well and she needs to talk to Jared about it. Diane and Jared have a complex relationship that adds to the story a great deal. Cropper shines in the role, and delivers every line of dialogue as an actual mother would. Like Breuls, Cropper inhabits the role and makes her character feel like a real person. Linda Cropper gives an authentic, standout performance in this film.
Simon Lyndon plays Ricko. There is a great deal of mystery surrounding this character as he does not get much screen time. However, I think that lack of screen time is earned when you discover the revelation about the character. Once that moment happens, his character becomes an important focal point. Ricko is quite a disturbing character because he believes in his motivations so casually. Like the aforementioned actors, Lyndon makes the character believable as a real person, perfectly inhabiting the character in every twisted aspect. Even though he does not get much screen time, Lyndon is truly something special to watch in the film. The final act of the film is so emotional to watch because of his performance. Solid work by Lyndon.
Steven Vidler is the director of Blackrock. I particularly like the way he uses the camera during the party scenes in the film. It may seem too hectic and "shaky-cam" for some, but I personally feel that the reason the camera is used this way is to reflect what the party scene is like in real life. I also like the way the camera is used in Laurence Breuls' scenes. Jareds' journey is quite emotional, and the camera stays on Breuls in the emotional scenes to emphasize how he is feeling. This brings me to a part of the film that I need to address. We do not actually see the schoolgirl get murdered. Now, some would argue that it is important that we see this because it is such an important part of the film. However, I personally believe that seeing her get murdered after she has just been raped would have been too much for this kind of a movie. Setting the tone is so important when making a film, and I think that seeing a murder scene immediately after a rape scene would have been too much to take in for the tone of this movie. That being said, this film is a window into these characters' lives, and Vidler gives the film a very real, raw look at life. This is a fantastic knockout directorial debut by Vidler.
Blackrock is a powerful film that will move you in such an emotional way. This is definitely a movie that every film buff should have in their collection. If you have the means and opportunity of purchasing it, I highly suggest that you do.
Blackrock is the story of a group of surfers whos friendship is tested after one of them witnesses a local schoolgirl get raped and murdered. I like the way this film unfolds because you see how close all of these friends are. They may get on each others nerves sometimes, but in the end all is forgiven because these guys are like family. I also like the side story with Jareds' (Laurence Breuls) mother, Diane (Linda Cropper). This element of the film adds an extra element of drama to the film that makes you care about Jared even more. This is a powerful film that makes you question where you stand between loyalty and truth.
Laurence Breuls plays Jared. I love Jareds' character arc in the film because for a majority of the film he struggles with whether to stay loyal to his friends or go to the authorities about what he saw. This also affects his relationship with his mother because he is being emotionally distant at a time when she needs him around. Breuls is solid in the role, and his character provides the necessary emotional weight. The scene where he confesses to his mother that he witnessed what happened to the schoolgirl is so powerful because of Breuls' performance. Every subtlety in his facial expressions and voice tone makes Jared as a character feel more human. I enjoyed watching Breuls develop this character very much.
Linda Cropper plays Jareds' mother, Diane. I like this character because she is one of the few people in Jareds' life that is attempting to get him to talk about what happened. I think that Jared wants to tell her, and that she knows he wants to tell her. Also, she is going through something personal in her life as well and she needs to talk to Jared about it. Diane and Jared have a complex relationship that adds to the story a great deal. Cropper shines in the role, and delivers every line of dialogue as an actual mother would. Like Breuls, Cropper inhabits the role and makes her character feel like a real person. Linda Cropper gives an authentic, standout performance in this film.
Simon Lyndon plays Ricko. There is a great deal of mystery surrounding this character as he does not get much screen time. However, I think that lack of screen time is earned when you discover the revelation about the character. Once that moment happens, his character becomes an important focal point. Ricko is quite a disturbing character because he believes in his motivations so casually. Like the aforementioned actors, Lyndon makes the character believable as a real person, perfectly inhabiting the character in every twisted aspect. Even though he does not get much screen time, Lyndon is truly something special to watch in the film. The final act of the film is so emotional to watch because of his performance. Solid work by Lyndon.
Steven Vidler is the director of Blackrock. I particularly like the way he uses the camera during the party scenes in the film. It may seem too hectic and "shaky-cam" for some, but I personally feel that the reason the camera is used this way is to reflect what the party scene is like in real life. I also like the way the camera is used in Laurence Breuls' scenes. Jareds' journey is quite emotional, and the camera stays on Breuls in the emotional scenes to emphasize how he is feeling. This brings me to a part of the film that I need to address. We do not actually see the schoolgirl get murdered. Now, some would argue that it is important that we see this because it is such an important part of the film. However, I personally believe that seeing her get murdered after she has just been raped would have been too much for this kind of a movie. Setting the tone is so important when making a film, and I think that seeing a murder scene immediately after a rape scene would have been too much to take in for the tone of this movie. That being said, this film is a window into these characters' lives, and Vidler gives the film a very real, raw look at life. This is a fantastic knockout directorial debut by Vidler.
Blackrock is a powerful film that will move you in such an emotional way. This is definitely a movie that every film buff should have in their collection. If you have the means and opportunity of purchasing it, I highly suggest that you do.
Sunday, November 5, 2017
On The Road To Meaning
I have always enjoyed dramatic, character-driven films. The scripts are better than most mainstream blockbusters, and the actors who get involved with the projects invest their time in the film to truly become the characters. The film Highway is a wonderful example of that, and showcases relatively young talent coming into their own as actors.
Highway is the story of a pool boy who gets caught with a Vegas mob boss' wife in bed, so he and his best friend Pilot (Jake Gyllenhaal) hit the road for Seattle so Pilot can find the girl of his dreams. This movie does a fantastic job of setting up the characters of Jack (Jared Leto) and Pilot. These guys are a couple of misfits in 90's America who are attempting to find their place in society. They put up with each others' trouble-making because it makes them who they are, and they both have rites of passage along the way where they truly become men. This is an incredible film about the meaning of love, life and friendship.
Jared Leto plays Jack. Jack is a young man who is struggling with his own manhood, and finally finds it when he hooks up with Cassie (Selma Blair). He also has an incredibly magnetic friendship with Pilot. He is there for him through everything even though he is tough to deal with at times. Leto gives such an amazing performance in the film, and brings his character to life in such an amazing way. On paper, this character may seem stereotypical. However, Leto is so dynamic in the film that you believe in him and his character. Personally, I think he steals the entire film and runs away with it in the process.
Jake Gyllenhaal plays Pilot. Pilot is socially awkward, sexually confused and has countless questions about life. This film is his journey, and everyone else is along for the ride. Gyllenhaal is breathtaking in the film. He brings a certain vulnerability to his character that makes you sympathize with what he is going through. It is kind of cliche that he does not get the girl in the end, but that moment lasts for about a second because all he cares about is the trouble he caused his friends. This is a wonderful performance by a great actor.
Selma Blair plays Cassie. This character actually has a beautiful arc throughout the film. Everything from her introduction, to her being the mediator between Jack and Pilots' bickering fits perfectly into the film, and is essential in the relationship between the characters. In fact, just when you think her character is going to become cliche, she takes another path that makes you root for her even more. Blair plays the role quite convincingly, and especially shines in the scenes she has with Jared Leto.
James Cox is the director of Highway. I love the way he handles this film because the character relationships are the driving force of the film. Without this key aspect, we do not care about anything that happens to them. This film is a window into these characters' lives, and it succeeds amazingly at that on every level. Every time Leto, Gyllenhaal and Blair are on screen together it is pure magic. This is an incredible film by James Cox.
Highway is a great example of a film where the characters guide you through the world that they inhabit. This film has great characters that you connect to, and great actors to play those characters. Highway is yet another hidden gem that may be hard to find but, if you do, add it to your collection.
Highway is the story of a pool boy who gets caught with a Vegas mob boss' wife in bed, so he and his best friend Pilot (Jake Gyllenhaal) hit the road for Seattle so Pilot can find the girl of his dreams. This movie does a fantastic job of setting up the characters of Jack (Jared Leto) and Pilot. These guys are a couple of misfits in 90's America who are attempting to find their place in society. They put up with each others' trouble-making because it makes them who they are, and they both have rites of passage along the way where they truly become men. This is an incredible film about the meaning of love, life and friendship.
Jared Leto plays Jack. Jack is a young man who is struggling with his own manhood, and finally finds it when he hooks up with Cassie (Selma Blair). He also has an incredibly magnetic friendship with Pilot. He is there for him through everything even though he is tough to deal with at times. Leto gives such an amazing performance in the film, and brings his character to life in such an amazing way. On paper, this character may seem stereotypical. However, Leto is so dynamic in the film that you believe in him and his character. Personally, I think he steals the entire film and runs away with it in the process.
Jake Gyllenhaal plays Pilot. Pilot is socially awkward, sexually confused and has countless questions about life. This film is his journey, and everyone else is along for the ride. Gyllenhaal is breathtaking in the film. He brings a certain vulnerability to his character that makes you sympathize with what he is going through. It is kind of cliche that he does not get the girl in the end, but that moment lasts for about a second because all he cares about is the trouble he caused his friends. This is a wonderful performance by a great actor.
Selma Blair plays Cassie. This character actually has a beautiful arc throughout the film. Everything from her introduction, to her being the mediator between Jack and Pilots' bickering fits perfectly into the film, and is essential in the relationship between the characters. In fact, just when you think her character is going to become cliche, she takes another path that makes you root for her even more. Blair plays the role quite convincingly, and especially shines in the scenes she has with Jared Leto.
James Cox is the director of Highway. I love the way he handles this film because the character relationships are the driving force of the film. Without this key aspect, we do not care about anything that happens to them. This film is a window into these characters' lives, and it succeeds amazingly at that on every level. Every time Leto, Gyllenhaal and Blair are on screen together it is pure magic. This is an incredible film by James Cox.
Highway is a great example of a film where the characters guide you through the world that they inhabit. This film has great characters that you connect to, and great actors to play those characters. Highway is yet another hidden gem that may be hard to find but, if you do, add it to your collection.
Saturday, October 28, 2017
The Road To Burnin' Love
I have always thought that a good romantic comedy can be fun to watch. Even though I think that the genre is a dying breed, I still believe that there are a number of gems out there. Elvis Has Left The Building is a wonderful example of a charming comedy that, unfortunately, probably did not get the attention that it deserved.
Elvis Has Left the Building is the story of a Pink Lady Cosmetics representative who meets an ad agency executive as she is travels across the country accidentally and inexplicably murdering Elvis impersonators. While this film does not deliver a barrel of laughs, you will be chuckling constantly throughout the film. The ways each Elvis impersonator is killed are so inventive and funny, and leave you wondering how many creative ways they can pull of the gag. I also enjoy the two characters who are FBI Agents attempting to crack the case. The characters are complete opposites, and add to that that one of them is a germaphobe, and this comedy duo almost steal the entire film. This is such an enjoyable film that has a good story, great acting and solid comedic charm.
Kim Basinger plays Harmony Jones. Basinger delivers brilliant comedic timing throughout the film, and brings a certain genuineness to her character that adds to the overall film. She also has good dramatic scenes both with Angie Dickinson and John Corbett. This is a well-rounded performance that truly showcases how talented Kim Basinger is as an actress.
John Corbett plays Miles Taylor. Overall, I like Corbetts' performance in this movie. He displays a certain charm and wit that could make any woman fall in love with him. However, I do feel that there is a severe lack of development with his character. It just feels as if he was cast as the typical good looking man who falls for the female character. We do not even see his character involved with his ad agency much at all. His motives just seem unclear to me. Do not misunderstand me, Corbett is solid in the movie, but I just did not care about his character enough.
Joel Zwick is the director of Elvis Has Left The Building. Ultimately, this movie is about how much Elvis Presley had an impact on Harmony Jones' life and career. You can feel that impact throughout the film as there are countless Elvis-inspired sets, clothing, vehicles, outfits and memorabilia. Also, even though this film is a comedy, the dramatic scenes do stand out because they are so good, and Zwick handles them with care. The chemistry between the actors is solid as well, which is the mark of a good director. Zwick does a wonderful job directing this film.
Elvis Has Left The Building is such a delightful gem of a comedy, and it is a shame that it got so unrecognized on its initial release. The acting is great, the sets and atmosphere are wonderful, and the comedy bits will have you smiling throughout the entire film. If you have not seen Elvis Has Left Building, I highly suggest that you pick it up. As with all cinematic gems, it may be hard to find, but trust me, it is worth it.
Elvis Has Left the Building is the story of a Pink Lady Cosmetics representative who meets an ad agency executive as she is travels across the country accidentally and inexplicably murdering Elvis impersonators. While this film does not deliver a barrel of laughs, you will be chuckling constantly throughout the film. The ways each Elvis impersonator is killed are so inventive and funny, and leave you wondering how many creative ways they can pull of the gag. I also enjoy the two characters who are FBI Agents attempting to crack the case. The characters are complete opposites, and add to that that one of them is a germaphobe, and this comedy duo almost steal the entire film. This is such an enjoyable film that has a good story, great acting and solid comedic charm.
Kim Basinger plays Harmony Jones. Basinger delivers brilliant comedic timing throughout the film, and brings a certain genuineness to her character that adds to the overall film. She also has good dramatic scenes both with Angie Dickinson and John Corbett. This is a well-rounded performance that truly showcases how talented Kim Basinger is as an actress.
John Corbett plays Miles Taylor. Overall, I like Corbetts' performance in this movie. He displays a certain charm and wit that could make any woman fall in love with him. However, I do feel that there is a severe lack of development with his character. It just feels as if he was cast as the typical good looking man who falls for the female character. We do not even see his character involved with his ad agency much at all. His motives just seem unclear to me. Do not misunderstand me, Corbett is solid in the movie, but I just did not care about his character enough.
Joel Zwick is the director of Elvis Has Left The Building. Ultimately, this movie is about how much Elvis Presley had an impact on Harmony Jones' life and career. You can feel that impact throughout the film as there are countless Elvis-inspired sets, clothing, vehicles, outfits and memorabilia. Also, even though this film is a comedy, the dramatic scenes do stand out because they are so good, and Zwick handles them with care. The chemistry between the actors is solid as well, which is the mark of a good director. Zwick does a wonderful job directing this film.
Elvis Has Left The Building is such a delightful gem of a comedy, and it is a shame that it got so unrecognized on its initial release. The acting is great, the sets and atmosphere are wonderful, and the comedy bits will have you smiling throughout the entire film. If you have not seen Elvis Has Left Building, I highly suggest that you pick it up. As with all cinematic gems, it may be hard to find, but trust me, it is worth it.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Forbidden, Foreign Love
Tom Hanks is one of my favorite actors of all time, and yet there is much of his early work that I have not seen. I always find it interesting to discover earlier and lesser known films in the careers of certain actors because it is a window into how they became as great as they are today. I had never seen Every Time I Say Goodbye, nor had I even heard of it. While the film does have some good performances in it, unfortunately it is riddled with cliches right up until the very end.
Every Time We Say Goodbye is the story of a pilot and a girl from Jerusalem who fall in love, even though their individual backgrounds suggest that they should not be together at all. As I said before, this film is your typical "forbidden love story". These two characters are not meant to be together because of their different backgrounds, but they do not care and continue to see each other anyway. The big problem with the film is that it does not focus on this aspect as much as it should. It is more focused on the fact that David (Tom Hanks) is an American, and does not understand the Jewish culture and heritage. The entire film consists of David and Sarah (Cristina Marsillach) seeing each other behind the back of Sarahs' family. The storytelling falls completely flat, and were it not for the performances of Hanks and Marsillach, this movie would be dead on arrival.
Tom Hanks plays David. Even though his character arc is predictable in every way, I like what Hanks brings to the table. There are scenes where he displays his classic comedy chops, but for a majority of the film he displays a serviceable dramatic range that is nice to see so early in his career. The scene where he is attempting to see Sarah one last time before he leaves is actually quite moving to watch because he is almost violent in his determination to see her. This is a solid performance from an an actor who would go on to become one of the greatest ever.
Cristina Marsillach plays Sarah. While I do like Marsillachs' performance, her character arc is the most cliched element of this film. She meets David, and they start spending time with each other even though she is forbidden from seeing him. She falls in love with him, tells her family, then tells David to leave so that she is spared more pain, and chooses to marry her best friend. Then, she realizes she cannot marry him because she is in love with David. Marsillach does what she can with such limited material, and her performance, along with Hanks' is the only other reason to watch this film in its entirety.
Moshe Mizrahi is the director of Every Time We Say Goodbye. The relationship between David and Sarah is the most important aspect of this film. Mizrahi uses this to his advantage because not only is the chemistry good between the actors, but all of their scenes together are quite touching to watch. My favorite scene in the film is when Sarah confesses her love for David to her family. The performances of every actor in this scene are so genuine. You can feel the emotional conflict within Sarah, just as you can feel the anger and hatred from her family. The location of Jerusalem is beautiful to look at as well. Mizrahi chooses nice shots to showcase the landscape. There is not much to like about the direction of this film, but these aspects do stand out in a positive way for me personally.
There is not much to like about Every Time We Say Goodbye. The story and character arcs are all too familiar and predictable, but I honestly think that the acting is serviceable. I would say if you are fan of Tom Hanks, and would like to experience his earlier work, check this movie out. If not, you are better off skipping it.
Every Time We Say Goodbye is the story of a pilot and a girl from Jerusalem who fall in love, even though their individual backgrounds suggest that they should not be together at all. As I said before, this film is your typical "forbidden love story". These two characters are not meant to be together because of their different backgrounds, but they do not care and continue to see each other anyway. The big problem with the film is that it does not focus on this aspect as much as it should. It is more focused on the fact that David (Tom Hanks) is an American, and does not understand the Jewish culture and heritage. The entire film consists of David and Sarah (Cristina Marsillach) seeing each other behind the back of Sarahs' family. The storytelling falls completely flat, and were it not for the performances of Hanks and Marsillach, this movie would be dead on arrival.
Tom Hanks plays David. Even though his character arc is predictable in every way, I like what Hanks brings to the table. There are scenes where he displays his classic comedy chops, but for a majority of the film he displays a serviceable dramatic range that is nice to see so early in his career. The scene where he is attempting to see Sarah one last time before he leaves is actually quite moving to watch because he is almost violent in his determination to see her. This is a solid performance from an an actor who would go on to become one of the greatest ever.
Cristina Marsillach plays Sarah. While I do like Marsillachs' performance, her character arc is the most cliched element of this film. She meets David, and they start spending time with each other even though she is forbidden from seeing him. She falls in love with him, tells her family, then tells David to leave so that she is spared more pain, and chooses to marry her best friend. Then, she realizes she cannot marry him because she is in love with David. Marsillach does what she can with such limited material, and her performance, along with Hanks' is the only other reason to watch this film in its entirety.
Moshe Mizrahi is the director of Every Time We Say Goodbye. The relationship between David and Sarah is the most important aspect of this film. Mizrahi uses this to his advantage because not only is the chemistry good between the actors, but all of their scenes together are quite touching to watch. My favorite scene in the film is when Sarah confesses her love for David to her family. The performances of every actor in this scene are so genuine. You can feel the emotional conflict within Sarah, just as you can feel the anger and hatred from her family. The location of Jerusalem is beautiful to look at as well. Mizrahi chooses nice shots to showcase the landscape. There is not much to like about the direction of this film, but these aspects do stand out in a positive way for me personally.
There is not much to like about Every Time We Say Goodbye. The story and character arcs are all too familiar and predictable, but I honestly think that the acting is serviceable. I would say if you are fan of Tom Hanks, and would like to experience his earlier work, check this movie out. If not, you are better off skipping it.
Sunday, October 22, 2017
Tragedies In The Wilderness
Time to Kill is another early film in Nicolas Cages' career that I had not seen, or even heard of, until recently. I have always liked him as an actor, so I was automatically intrigued to watch the film. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and I think Cage gives one of his best performances of his entire career.
Time to Kill is the story of an Italian Army Lieutenant who is suffering from a toothache, travels to the nearest hospital to get it treated, but encounters many horrors throughout his journey. In fact, that is the most intriguing thing about this movie. The experiences that Lieutenant Silvestri (Nicolas Cage) has throughout the film are almost, if not just as, terrible as experiencing the war itself. There are even times when you think that Silvestri would have been better off fighting in the war. This is a heavy film to get through, and some of the characters are downright unlikable. In fact, this might be one of those movies that you only watch once a year. However, this is an incredibly well-made film that I highly recommend you make the effort to watch. There are a few plot holes with this movie that I must address. Firstly, it is unclear where the war in this film is being fought. I actually had to do some research online to find out that the war was being fought in Ethiopia in 1936. Also, at one point in the movie, Silvestri accidentally shoots a woman and kills her. We do not learn this womans' name until moments before her death, and her name-drop feels completely random. Later in the film, Silvestri has a standoff with an enemy, and his enemy has stolen has his gun. Silvestri reveals that he has unloaded his gun so that the enemy cannot fire it. While this plot point can be somewhat debatable as to whether it should be seen or not, I personally feel it necessary. Despite these extremely minor flaws, this is an incredible film that every movie buff should have in their collection.
Nicolas Cage plays Enrico Silvestri. This is one of Cages' most emotional and vulnerable performances. Silvestri is a man who has plenty of war experience, but when it comes to surviving on his own in the wilderness, he has no idea what to do or where to go. He suffers horrors beyond his imagination, and because of that he will have personal demons for the rest of his life. The scene where he accidentally shoots and kills a local woman is particularly moving because there is no one/nowhere to go to for help. Even though Silvestri is not a likable character in the slightest, his journey is quite remarkable. Cage is brilliant in this film.
Giuliano Montaldo is the director of Time to Kill. I like what Montaldo does with this movie for a couple of reasons: Firstly, the wide shots that show Silvestri traveling across the vast landscape are absolutely spectacular, and almost make you forget about all of the terrible things that have happened to this character. Second, I like the way all of the incidents are filmed. Montaldo does a brilliant job of making us feel like we are experiencing these events along with Silvestri, which makes you feel empathy for the character even though he is not particularly likable. Montaldo does a fine job directing this movie.
Time to Kill is heavy on dramatic storytelling and dark character arcs. However, it is a must for any film connoisseur. This film might be hard to find, but if you do, I highly suggest that you pick it up.
Time to Kill is the story of an Italian Army Lieutenant who is suffering from a toothache, travels to the nearest hospital to get it treated, but encounters many horrors throughout his journey. In fact, that is the most intriguing thing about this movie. The experiences that Lieutenant Silvestri (Nicolas Cage) has throughout the film are almost, if not just as, terrible as experiencing the war itself. There are even times when you think that Silvestri would have been better off fighting in the war. This is a heavy film to get through, and some of the characters are downright unlikable. In fact, this might be one of those movies that you only watch once a year. However, this is an incredibly well-made film that I highly recommend you make the effort to watch. There are a few plot holes with this movie that I must address. Firstly, it is unclear where the war in this film is being fought. I actually had to do some research online to find out that the war was being fought in Ethiopia in 1936. Also, at one point in the movie, Silvestri accidentally shoots a woman and kills her. We do not learn this womans' name until moments before her death, and her name-drop feels completely random. Later in the film, Silvestri has a standoff with an enemy, and his enemy has stolen has his gun. Silvestri reveals that he has unloaded his gun so that the enemy cannot fire it. While this plot point can be somewhat debatable as to whether it should be seen or not, I personally feel it necessary. Despite these extremely minor flaws, this is an incredible film that every movie buff should have in their collection.
Nicolas Cage plays Enrico Silvestri. This is one of Cages' most emotional and vulnerable performances. Silvestri is a man who has plenty of war experience, but when it comes to surviving on his own in the wilderness, he has no idea what to do or where to go. He suffers horrors beyond his imagination, and because of that he will have personal demons for the rest of his life. The scene where he accidentally shoots and kills a local woman is particularly moving because there is no one/nowhere to go to for help. Even though Silvestri is not a likable character in the slightest, his journey is quite remarkable. Cage is brilliant in this film.
Giuliano Montaldo is the director of Time to Kill. I like what Montaldo does with this movie for a couple of reasons: Firstly, the wide shots that show Silvestri traveling across the vast landscape are absolutely spectacular, and almost make you forget about all of the terrible things that have happened to this character. Second, I like the way all of the incidents are filmed. Montaldo does a brilliant job of making us feel like we are experiencing these events along with Silvestri, which makes you feel empathy for the character even though he is not particularly likable. Montaldo does a fine job directing this movie.
Time to Kill is heavy on dramatic storytelling and dark character arcs. However, it is a must for any film connoisseur. This film might be hard to find, but if you do, I highly suggest that you pick it up.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Birth of the Blue Flash
I have always found Nicolas Cage to be one of cinemas' most interesting actors. Everything from the projects he chooses to his subtle nuances as an actor have made him one of the most polarizing celebrities in Hollywood. Up until now, I have been unfamiliar with his earlier work. As I watch more of his movies, it will be fascinating to see how his career has evolved. My first choice is the 1986 film The Boy in Blue.
The Boy in Blue is the true story of Ned Hanlan, the Canadian sculler who would go on to become the World Champion. This film effectively chronicles Hanlans' (Nicolas Cage) days growing up in Canada, and the events that transpired as he went on to become internationally famous. One of the things that keeps this movie grounded, and not just a puff piece, is that it shows that while Hanlan is the best sculler in Canada, he has trouble competing with the big boys around the world and truly has much to learn. In fact, he does not even win his first race once he leaves Canada. He is even bullied and looked down upon for being an outsider and not having professional training. Again, it is all of these factors, as well as Nicolas Cages' performance, that make this story believable. Other than the fact that it is unclear that Hanlan is not American ( I actually had to look up where he is from), this is a wonderful film about having the strength to accomplish your goals, and the triumph of the human spirit.
Nicolas Cage plays Ned Hanlan. There is a certain recklessness, and yet determination, to Hanlan throughout the beginning of the film. Hanlan enjoys living life and taking risks, but when it comes to sculling he is extremely focused. Cage balances these emotions well, and even makes you laugh at his recklessness not because it is funny, but because he is wasting his potential. However, once he begins to make it big in the United States, his determination is kicked into overdrive. There is also a certain humbleness to Hanlan that Cage plays into quite well. Hanlan is an every-man who is a casual sculler, and is not used to a celebrity status, so when he is greeted with thunderous applause it is awkward for him. Cages' performance is the heartbeat of the film, and he displays all of these emotions in such a well-rounded way.
Christopher Plummer plays Knox. Knox is a wealthy businessman who sees Hanlan as a financial investment, and not as a talented man. He is ruthless, and has Hanlan training vigorously for the championship. It takes a truly great actor to make you hate the character they are playing, and Plummer plays the role with such conviction that every fiber of your being despises his character. He virtually steals every scene that he is in. This is such a deliciously evil performance delivered by an acting titan.
Charles Jarrott is the director of The Boy in Blue. I love what Jarrott brings to this film because he brings you into the world and culture of sculling. The sequences at the Centennial Regatta are a sight to a behold. I also like the way Hanlans' relationships with Knox and Margaret (Cynthia Dale) are handled. One is affecting him in a positive way, and the other is affecting him in a negative way. Jarrott handles these relationships with great care. Of course, the main character arc is about Ned Hanlan, and his story truly has an epic, "zero-to-hero" feel to it. Jarrott does a magnificent job directing this film.
The Boy in Blue is a must-own movie for any film enthusiast. With great characters and a compelling story, this film will truly capture your heart. This film may be hard to find, but if you do, I highly suggest you pick it up.
The Boy in Blue is the true story of Ned Hanlan, the Canadian sculler who would go on to become the World Champion. This film effectively chronicles Hanlans' (Nicolas Cage) days growing up in Canada, and the events that transpired as he went on to become internationally famous. One of the things that keeps this movie grounded, and not just a puff piece, is that it shows that while Hanlan is the best sculler in Canada, he has trouble competing with the big boys around the world and truly has much to learn. In fact, he does not even win his first race once he leaves Canada. He is even bullied and looked down upon for being an outsider and not having professional training. Again, it is all of these factors, as well as Nicolas Cages' performance, that make this story believable. Other than the fact that it is unclear that Hanlan is not American ( I actually had to look up where he is from), this is a wonderful film about having the strength to accomplish your goals, and the triumph of the human spirit.
Nicolas Cage plays Ned Hanlan. There is a certain recklessness, and yet determination, to Hanlan throughout the beginning of the film. Hanlan enjoys living life and taking risks, but when it comes to sculling he is extremely focused. Cage balances these emotions well, and even makes you laugh at his recklessness not because it is funny, but because he is wasting his potential. However, once he begins to make it big in the United States, his determination is kicked into overdrive. There is also a certain humbleness to Hanlan that Cage plays into quite well. Hanlan is an every-man who is a casual sculler, and is not used to a celebrity status, so when he is greeted with thunderous applause it is awkward for him. Cages' performance is the heartbeat of the film, and he displays all of these emotions in such a well-rounded way.
Christopher Plummer plays Knox. Knox is a wealthy businessman who sees Hanlan as a financial investment, and not as a talented man. He is ruthless, and has Hanlan training vigorously for the championship. It takes a truly great actor to make you hate the character they are playing, and Plummer plays the role with such conviction that every fiber of your being despises his character. He virtually steals every scene that he is in. This is such a deliciously evil performance delivered by an acting titan.
Charles Jarrott is the director of The Boy in Blue. I love what Jarrott brings to this film because he brings you into the world and culture of sculling. The sequences at the Centennial Regatta are a sight to a behold. I also like the way Hanlans' relationships with Knox and Margaret (Cynthia Dale) are handled. One is affecting him in a positive way, and the other is affecting him in a negative way. Jarrott handles these relationships with great care. Of course, the main character arc is about Ned Hanlan, and his story truly has an epic, "zero-to-hero" feel to it. Jarrott does a magnificent job directing this film.
The Boy in Blue is a must-own movie for any film enthusiast. With great characters and a compelling story, this film will truly capture your heart. This film may be hard to find, but if you do, I highly suggest you pick it up.
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