Jesse James Film

Got opportunity to see the "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (by God, what a title) earlier today.

Now honestly, the main reason I wanted to see it was because it was filmed in Alberta (and that's clearly evident through out the film), but thankfully the film it's self was perfection. No qualms whatsoever. Amazing acting by the entire cast (as per usual, Pitt never fails to impress) amazing directing and story, excellent scenery and not to mention cinematography which is most possibly the best I've ever seen.

I don't think I can even put words to my feelings about this movie. Perfect in all respects.

10/10

That Darn Girl! *In Love*

Watched a film last night called "The Quiet", and was absolutely amazed at how good it actually was. Quite frankly, I had originally expected it to be some weak sauce low production film with a choppy plot, but boy oh boy I was wrong.

Great film it was! Well constructed, excellent acting, great story - you name it. But before you go and watch it, be warned, it ain't no happy-go film; in fact, it's quite depressing and disturbing.

Without going to much into it, let me get you the basic facts (copied from IMDB.com)

Dot (Camilla Belle), a young deaf and mute woman, is sent to live with her godparents (Falco and Donovan) and their daughter (Elisha Cuthbert). The new addition to the household realizes that everything is not copacetic in the home, and the family's dark come to light

Anyhow, as good as the film was (and as hot Elisha was), neither are the reason why I am writing this post. No, the reason for this post is for me to share my admiration for Mrs. Belle with you.

Oh my Lord.. She is undoubtedly one of the best looking girls in Hollywood.

I just cannot believe how beautiful she is. She has that whole "sweet-heart" look down to perfection. She truthfully looks like one of those girls you (certainly myself) long to spend you're entire life with; a girl you want to hug and never let go.

And as a bonus, she's around my age (20 years old)...

Short Movie Reviews

"This Is England" - 2006

An excellent film with excellent acting, but terribly depressing - 10/10

"Mr. Brooks" - 2007

Undoubtedly the best film Mr. Costner has stared in - 8/10

"Interview" - Film

As I am honestly not in the mood to write a proper review for this film, I'll leave it at: watch it, because it's absolutely excellent!

Never seen a film like it... And oh my, what amazing acting performances by the two. Sienna Miller is so much more than a pretty face, she truly is a superb actress and Buscemi, well, his skills are just obvious aren't they? Buscemi's acting work looks even more impressive when you find out that he was the one who also directed and wrote the movie's screen play. Bravo Mr. Buscemi!

But be warned, If you want action, this is not the movie to watch. As it's a Sundance Film Festival film, it requires actual concentration and intelligence to enjoy it.

Once again, an excellent film and an instant favourite. 10/10.

"The Good Night" - Film

Spectacular and Un-fucking-believably awesome

Those are the words that come to my mind when describing my thoughts about this movie. Recently had a chance to watch this film, originally created for the Sundance Film Festival, and come away as a new person. Perhaps that a bit melodramatic, but honestly, this is one of those films that reflected not only my life, but also many of my thoughts about life. And that happens, well, hardly ever. The last film to make such an impact on me was "The Constant Gardener".

"The Good Night" is just a spectacular film; a real piece of artwork; a masterpiece if you will.

Writing a decent review for such a film is especially hard as I feel compelled to give the whole story away and tell you what each and every scene meant to me.

Nevertheless, below is my attempt at giving you at balanced (and un-revealing) review.

The story starts off with Gary (played by the fabulous Martin Freeman) who was once a member of an English rock-band - which broke up long ago - and is currently directing music for television adverts with his best friend (and band mate), Paul (played by "Shawn of the Dead's" Simon Pegg). Experiencing what he believes to be a mid-life crisis, a lifeless and dead-end job and a personal relationship - with Dora (played by Gweneth Paltrow) - slowly crumbling apart, Gary looks towards to his dreams as the perfect escape. In his spectacular dreams, he's one who has everything - happiness, health and a girlfriend (played by Penelope Cruz) who cares as much about him as he does about her. Wanting to further experience his dreams and detachment from reality, Gary soon goes to see Mel (played by Danny Devito) to learn how to control his dreams.

Frankly, I cannot tell you anymore with the fear of ruining the story. One thing that I can tell you is that it's no fairy tale, particularly the ending. It's not happy, quite shocking and ironic. There is one particular scene which is just amazing and that's the one where Devito's character states the man who can find --BLANK-- sleep will forever be the happiest man in the world. It's a quote which by the time the movie ends, is spine-chilling and ultimately, upsetting.

Also worth mentioning is that aside from the well crafted, well directed and well-written story thanks to Jake Paltrow (Gweneth's brother) - the acting in this movie is on another level. Firstly, this is the first movie where I actually liked Danny Devito and that's saying something considering the guy usually bothers me like a wasp, but in this movie they could not have chosen anyone better. Mrs. Paltrow continues to show her versatility and talent at playing any part she's hired for; Simon Pegg continues to portray his cynical and hot-shot attitude he's most famous for and Penelope Cruz plays her part as one would expect (fabulously).

The acting performance from all of these actors is just fantastic, but you know what? None of them can touch Martin Freeman, he's an absolute master and surely one of the best actors anywhere. I first saw Martin Freeman as "Tim" in the original version of "The Office" and thought he was just spectacular, and then I saw him in "Breaking and Entering" and thought he was even more impressive. And now, after watching his spectacular (I've used that world a whole lot, haven't I?) performance in this movie, I'm even more convinced he's one of the best actors to ever grace the silver screen. Come to think of it, I'd say that he's currently my favourite actor.

His acting abilities are uncanny; his presence undeniable. He's born natural.

To this end, should you enjoy off beat films, you oughta see this one!

Verdict: Excellent off-beat film, with superb acting and an important message
10/10

Other Recent Movies

Some of the other movies I've watched of late:

'1408'

This movie got panned by most critics, but I think they're idiots. I suppose the fact that it was more a physiological thriller rather than a in-your-face one didn't help it acheive high marks, nor the fact that it was more or less a one-man film.

Screw 'em.. 1408 is one of the best horror movies I've seen in a while.

8.5/10

'Captivity'

God damn, is Elisha Cuthbert a beautiful girl or what? She looks outrageously sexy with earrings too. Don't ask me where that came from, lol.

Oh..I'm sorry I've detracted. The movie it's self, was AWFUL

5/10

'Spiderman 3'

This is most likely the worst movie ever made; and no, I'm not kidding.

While the first two movies were indeed quite awful, this one takes the prize. I didn't expect it was going to be an award winning film in the first place, but I didn't expect it be this bad.

Aside from a ton of awful scenes and graphical animation, I wasn't sure if I was watching Spiderman or Beverly Hills 90210. I don't watch Spiderman because I need lessons about morals, I watch it because I wan to see Spiderman. A story of morals? Ha - about a story of making shitty prequels to make a large profit.

Holy Christ.. The acting and script were just too bad for words.

Lastly, what in the blue hell were they thinking we they had Tobey Maguire dancing down the street?

2/10

Disturbia/Transformers Review

Rather than wasting a whole deal of time explaining my the pro's and con's of these two films in my typical fashion of writing an overly long and insane post, I thought I'd keep it simple and short by combining the two movies into one post with minimalist reviews.

The first thing to be said is that Shia LaBeouf is the main star in both of these films. Needless to say, his schedule must have been insane through out 2005 and 2006 and ultimately, his bank account must have grown considerably bigger...

I think Shia is a great actor for someone his age; one of the best in fact. Having seen him in a variety of roles, I think it's safe to say that he has no problem adapting to whatever he's hired for.

It always surprises me when I remember that he started his acting career on a show on The Disney Channel with the Hilary Duff..

Disturbia:


Didn't know a whole lot about this film when I first saw it; honestly though, had I known a little more, I doubt I would have even gone and seen it. The overall story and plot were just flat and furthermore, they weren't something we haven't already seen. The execution wasn't too clever with much continuity issues and useless scenes.

Having said that, I'd still rather be watching this than Spiderman (for instance).

An Ok film.

Rating: 7.5/10

Transformers:



The biggest film of the year?

Perhaps so, but does that mean it was any good? Truthfully, and it hurts me to say this, but the answer is no!

As a Transformer fan I feel this movie was mediocre at best. Such is a shame as you can tell it had the potential to be something much more than it was. Other than Megan Fox and Rachael Taylor (the computer chick) and the Transformers themselves, there wasn't a whole lot to like.

Although, as huge post is that the Transformers were modeled extremely well and the voice matches on key; not to mention, seeing the likes of 'Bumble Bee', 'Megatron', 'Starscream' and 'Optimus Prime' on the big screen brought a big smile to my face. Furthermore, I was happy to see the adaptation of plot and character design/ideas from the 1997 award winning 'Beast Wars' version of Transformers.

Nevertheless, while there were some postives, there were far too many negatives. The story for instance, was very poorly executed in my opinion and perhaps a tad too family oriented as well. Also worth mentioning is there are a swack of strange and useless scenes.

Verdict: 7.0/10

Breaking & Entering (Film)

Jude Law and Juliette Binoche remain strong through out

Saw this film last Friday and all I have to say is...excellent.

Truthfully, I thought it was just excellent in all aspects and am confused silly by the rating it's been given by the 13,000 some viewers at IMDB who rate the film with an average score of 6.5 out of 10.

Excuse me? I'd say this film easily deserves a 9.0, perhaps a score even as high as 9.5.

Going into this film I hadn't much clue as to what it was about. The only thing I knew was it was about an architect who suffers a break-in at his studio. Little did I know such an event would result in the lead character's (the superb Jude Law) life being forever changed.

Without trying to give too much of the film away:

Jude Law's character, Will Francis, is currently in a relationship with Robin Wright Penn's character, Liv, that is spiraling downhill. The character of Liv is from Sweden and has brought along her young autistic child along with her to Britain where she met Will Francis. From there on, their already troubled relationship further goes towards the edgy rocks with the encounter of a break-in and the child who committed the particular crime; and a woman (played by the beautiful Juliette Binoche) who Jude Law's character falls in love with.

I cannot explain anymore without giving the story away, but to keep it short: I thought it was an excellent story. Well assembled with little gaps - proper continuity all through out the two hour film.

Contrary to what the films advertising gives away, this film is not a crime drama, but rather a love/life story.

Acting/Casting/etc:

Acting was another strong aspect of this movie. Most everyone put on a superb job, especially Juliette Binoche, Martin Freeman and Jude Law who played their roles like there was no tomorrow (sorry for the cliche..)

The casting of this movie was also excellent. I was glad to see Martin Freeman (from the U.K. version of 'The Office' who played 'Tim' on the series) receive a role in this movie. His acting is superb. A 'natural' if I ever seen one.

Verdict: Great movie!

Below: Right, Rafi Gavron - left, Juliette Binoche

Favourite Actress'

Is this the moment in my post when actual acting ability is thrown out and/or over looked for the sake of attractive beauty? No! I admit, some of the actress' listed below I have an attraction to, but I wouldn't steep as low to choose my favourite actress' based on looks alone.

So..pipe off!

Julianne Moore

While I'll admit Mrs. Moore has been in her share mediocre films, that truth is that she rarely fails to shine. She comes off as a solid, well adaptable actress with an impressive movie catalog. Film highlights include: 'Children of Men'; 'The Hours'; 'The Shipping News', 'Hannibal', etc.

Kate Beckinsale

What does John Travolta say in Pulp Fiction? "This is a moral test of oneself testing loyalty of.."

Yeah.. that works.

On a more serious note, I fully believe Mrs. Beckinsale has ability to be an excellent actress. Frankly and as I've stated once before, she hasn't really gotten the opportunity to show her absolute best. Having said that, she's certainly not a bad actress - some of the films she's already headlined (such as 'Serendipity', 'TipToes' and 'Vacancy') have showboated her already impressive acting abilities.

Kate Winslet

I wasn't too fond of Kate Winslet after I saw Titanic, but when I got a chance to see her play the role of 'Bistey Bloom' in 'The Life of David Gale', I was throughly impressed. After I saw 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind', - I was blown away.

Jennifer Connelly

Performances in such films as 'Requiem For A Dream'; 'Pollock'; 'A Beautiful Mind'; 'Blood Diamond' and 'The House of Sand & Fog' require she is on my list. Jen is a top notch actress!

Rachel Weisz

According to IMDB, she was a 'radical feminist' though out University. Lol.. Anyways, she is indeed one of my favourite actress' because.. she's just great. Not to mention, just like Beckinsale and Winslet, she can pull off an impeccable American accent.

Scarlett Johansson

Let me say it simple by saying: I could not believe 'Lost in Translation' was more or less, her film debut. She's everything a talented actress should be!

Judi Dench

She's just great. Period.

Cate Blanchett

See above reasons

Favourite Actors

What do you call an actor who doesn't have to act to give an amazing acting performance? What I'm talking about is those particular individuals who don't have to put much thought into portraying a character - hence, every character they play comes off natural.

I don't think I can even explain it.. All I can say is that a few of my favourite actors have this unique trait.

George Clooney

Mr. Clooney is one of those actors that I spoke of above. The perfect example of his natural acting is in a film like 'Ocean's Thirteen' where he portrays the character of Danny Ocean - who in his self, is cool, casual and hilarious. Yet again, I struggle to explain what I'm trying to say, but hopefully it's somewhat obvious.

Of course, George Clooney has the ability to sparkle in many more roles than just the 'Danny Ocean' and that's evident by characters like: 'Billy Tyne' (Perfect Storm); 'Bob Barnes' (Syriana) and last but not least, 'Major Archie Gates' (Three Kings).

Clooney is just cool.

Brad Pitt

Mr. Pitt happens to be another actor who truthfully comes off like a natural. He doesn't take shitty roles either - well ok, Mr & Mrs. Smith.. but other than that plonker, he has consistently stars in fantastic films where he's always gives a superb acting performance.

Matt Damon

Ever seen the 'The Bourne Identity' or 'The Bourne Supremacy?' Better yet, have you seen 'Good Will Hunting'? What an actor! Always on top of his game.

Bruce Willis

Here's another guy who plays the "casual cool-cat" role, and damn well at that. Notable character roles include: 'Mr. Goodkat' of 'Lucky Number Slevin'; 'David Dunn' of 'Unbreakable' and the absolute best (IMO), 'Butch Coolidge' of 'Pulp Fiction'.

Robin Williams

Most always playing a depressing role, but nevertheless, he's a superb actor who I feel is always playing a believable part.

Ben Kingsley

One movie: 'House of Sand & Fog'. Here's a guy who never fails to impress.

Morgan Freeman

Ever seen 'The Shawshank Redemption'?

Tim Robbins

Ever seen 'The Shawshank Redemption'?

Kevin Spacey

I'd strongly consider Mr. Spacey as my favourite actor of all time. Thanks to his amazing versatility and integrity as an actor, he can easily adapt to any role he is hired for. His performance in the following movies were nothing short of miraculous: 'American Beauty'(for which he won an Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role); 'The Life of David Gale'; 'K-PAX'; 'Se7en'; 'The Usual Suspects'(for which he won an Oscar for Best Actor in a supporting Role) and my personal favourite, 'The Shipping News'.

Anthony Hopkins

Mr. Hopkins is an actor which I have great respect for. Not only because he's very talented, but because he refuses to star in shitty films. In an interview conducted in mid 2006 (for the release of 'The World's Fastest Indian'), Hopkins stated that he refused to star in pointless (aka - rubbish) films.

Christopher Walken

Is there anyone as hilarious?

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There you have my favourite actors. If you're interested as to who my favourite actress' are, I suggest you stay tuned. That particular post will arrive on the upcoming Monday.