The whole reason I began this blog was for the sole purpose of talking about movies. Reviewing them, looking at what's coming into theaters, going back to films on DVD.........that was fun to me. And looking back at my last posts, I haven't even touched movies in a while. Now unfortunately I haven't been to the theaters since "The Dark Knight", and there really hasn't been anything good to look forward to in the theaters...........but luckily I've got my stack of DVDs to fall back on. And after a recent surge of watching them, I actually have quite a few I could look at. And by "quite a few" I mean nine of them. And yes, I'm going to do them all in the first "quick-shoot" review on this blog. Don't worry, there will be enough here so you get the idea of what's been good and what isn't. Let's get it started:
Push- Some unique ideas and good visuals give this movie some credibility. Actors who stand out are Djimon Hounsou and Dakota Fanning, while the rest are merely average. The romance seen falters, and the ending leaves something to be desired. A good movie for those looking for mindless action, but don't expect powerhouse performances or drama.
I Am Legend- Will Smith carries this film in good fashion, channelling some of Tom Hanks from "Castaway." The movie suffers towards the end with some sudden storytelling, but this movie depicts the possible "last man on Earth" in a great way. Also great for anyone who loves Will Smith......no one could've done it better.
The Bourne Ultimatum- Matt Damon does it again in the third of the "Jason Bourne" series. Good action and drama keep this one going, and it's good to know that this might not be completely over yet. Some might get lost if they haven't seen the first two films, so unfortunately it's a prerequisite that you see "Identity" and "Supremacy".......but you won't be disappointed either.
Casino Royale- The new legacy of James Bond has begun in style with this one. Daniel Craig brings us what Bond is really supposed to be, stealing the show. Although the movie can be a pro-advertisement for Texas Hold 'Em, the action is great, the drama is great, and we can all begin liking James Bond again. You can also continue that with....
Quantum of Solace- More action fuels this one, and a good story too. Craig continues to carry his great abilities to play Bond, although the supporting cast may not help compliment compared to "Casino Royale." Still, action-enthusiasts will get a kick out of this one as this new series is finding its stride, and I'm sure this will continue in the next film.
Watchmen- Although it runs incredibly long, and defies your expectations as being a comic book-to-film with lots of action, this move is a strong one once you get through the first hour and continue through the next two. Strong performance for almost the entire cast (aside from Matthew Goode sadly, who played the most pivotal role in the story), and one of best stories ever told, this movie can get your attention with its character developments and a phenomenal last hour.
The Departed- The Best Picture winner in 2007 deserved it and then some. One of the best in the new wave of gangster movies, it's got everything: story, drama, and acting. I'll go so far as to say Jack Nicholson and Matt Damon deserved nominations for their acting in this one. This is one of those few films that I can say most any movie-goer (besides young kids because of the obvious R-rating) will thoroughly enjoy.
Burn After Reading- For a movie claiming to be a laugh-out-loud comedy, this one will throw you off. Other than some funny character moments, there's more of an ironic story here. Good characters played by the whole cast, but the story leaves something to be desired. Good for anyone interested in any of the many actors in this one. Otherwise, don't expect much else.
Munich- If you want something different in a spy movie, go for this one. Some interesting ideas combined with some of the factual events it's based on, you get a good film by well-known director Steven Spielberg. Intense drama, and some good performances by a surprise cast will get you into this one.
I know I usually end my reviews with some quote from the film, but since there are nine reviews here, I'll pick just one and let you guess which movie it's from:
"I'm not a comic book villain. Do you seriously think I would explain my master stroke to you if there were even the slightest possibility you could affect the outcome? I triggered it 35 minutes ago."
I'll give you a hint: at the time of the original story's release, it led to one of the biggest plot twists ever.
