Release Date: May 03, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 20 min.
Director: Shane Black
Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce, Ben Kingsley, Jon Favreau, Rebecca Hall.
As franchises generally go, everything is in excess when it comes to raising the ante. Meaning, more action, more characters, more tech-savvy effects. And that's all in good fun when there's little else to be had – no qualms or expectations to undermine the enjoyment. But when it comes to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we've grown accustomed to a certain degree of ingenuity that derives from back-to-back successions, the last of which was "The Avengers" that achieved the highly implausible feat. With such indulgent presumptions, it was only a matter of time before reality set in, and with it, the unfamiliar ache of actually being letdown. For its inaugural kickoff, "Iron Man 3" is, by all definitions, a summer blockbuster, marking the return of Tony Stark who's as beloved as the star who portrays him. Armed with his wits and silver tongue, Robert Downey Jr. is undeniably the best thing about the series, never knowing what he'll do or think of next. But what makes a great hero is the adversary who challenges him, and unfortunately for Iron Man, the Mandarin just isn't one of them. While seemingly represented as a terrorist in the trailer, the film's interpretation is far from conjectured. What could have been the ultimate villain is facetiously altered, resulting in a punch line that feels ill-conceived and decidedly cheesy. The same goes for the bulk of the movie which plays more like a comedy, even during the trying times when Stark grapples with mental anxiety – the result from New York. What little reference to "The Avengers" seems forced at best, the film being more interested in the man inside the suit than the actual superhero. Resultantly, Iron Man himself is frequently MIA, save for the barrage of soldiers that cap off the epic battle scene. Given that this is Shane Black's only second feature, it might have helped if he had followed the template of Jon Favreau's more closely, rather than wander off the beaten path in hopes of transformation. Instead, "Iron Man 3," personally, feels to be the weakest of the bunch, overblown and comical to the point of being flippant. But with all said and done, this is only the beginning of 'Phase 2.' If Iron Man can't do it, maybe Thor will.
Rating: 2½ stars
Release Date: Apr 19, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min.
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Cast: Tom Cruise, Olga Kurylenko, Morgan Freeman, Andrea Riseborough, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Melissa Leo.
2013 is briskly shaping up to be the year of sci-fi, with a hefty slate of films geared up in imminent fashion. Thus it only seems fitting that the first to climb on deck is "Oblivion," Joseph Kosinski's homage of sorts to the inveterate genre. Taking place in the year 2077, we open on a desolate Earth, sixty years after an alien invasion nearly wipes out mankind. The remaining inhabitants, Tech #49 and communications officer Victoria, work as drone maintenance in pursuance of providing resources to continue civilization. It's here that the story breaks ground in establishing a breathtaking world, with impressive vistas and ravaged landmarks that are instantly recognizable. Kosinski's eye for aesthetics is obviously simple, through his sleek design and immaculate structures
— much like his approach to "Tron: Legacy." So where the film falters is certainly not by its looks, as it's what's in the inside that calls for closer observation. "Oblivion" is seemingly enthralling at first, as the trailer leaves more to the imagination than the bare premise. But it takes time to really determine where it's heading, as the buildup is deliberately measured over the course of two hours. And while the story itself is an original by the director, one can't help but notice the similarities it shares with many sci-fi films before it, including, oddly enough, Pixar's "Wall-E." That said, the foreshadowed twist is disappointing in terms of creativity, as it's this overused escape route that depreciates the plot line. Still, there are some redeeming qualities that keep it afloat
— the music, for one, playing a key role. As a way of emulating Daft Punk and their personal spin on "Tron: Legacy," Kosinski enlists the help of French group M83 to compose the tracks, making for a parallel but subdued tonality. Additionally, Tom Cruise slips comfortably back into his superstar persona, playing the vulnerable but persistent Jack Harper. Morgan Freeman, however, is mostly forgotten, as his screen time is equivalent to no more than a cameo. In any event, "Oblivion" is best enjoyed for its beauty and that alone because once "Star Trek Into Darkness" arrives, it will only be a distant memory.
Rating: 2½ stars
Release Date: Apr 05, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 41 min.
Director: Danny Boyle
Cast: James McAvoy, Vincent Cassel, Rosario Dawson, Danny Sapani, Tuppence Middleton.
It was a mere three years ago that Christopher Nolan took us inside the confines of the mind, probing dreams and their intricate workings like never seen before. Now director Danny Boyle takes us deeper into the psyche, eliciting memories and fears within a visceral landscape. James McAvoy stars as Simon, a fine arts auctioneer turned novice art thief. After a heist goes wrong resulting in inadvertent amnesia, he is forced into treatments of hynotheraphy with the beautiful Elizabeth Lamb (Dawson) to recover his memories. But as Simon goes under to reassemble the broken pieces, he finds that not everything – and everyone – are entirely what they seem. While initially a crime thriller with psychological elements, "Trance" is much more than it actually leads us to believe. Interwoven in compulsion and deceitful misdirection, the film's many layers are what keep it unpredictable, even when you think you've had it all figured out. It's with Boyle's impeccable guidance that the film really comes alive, producing sharp images with vivid colors in successive intercuts. Ergo it's sometimes difficult to ascertain reality from fantasy, it's another clever ruse to distract the audience from peeling back the layers. Furthermore, excellent performances are turned in by the cast. Vincent Cassel playing the suave villain that you're unsure of whether to hate, and Rosario Dawson playing the female protagonist with an ulterior agenda. While "Trance" doesn't have the same urgency or tension as his last two films, Boyle presents a techno thriller that entices, both mentally and visually.
Rating: 4 stars
Release Date: Mar 28, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min.
Director: Jon M. Chu
Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum, Adrianne Palicki, D.J. Cotrona, Lee Byung Hun, Jonathan Pryce, Ray Park, Bruce Willis.
Sequels are typically excuses for profitable second chances. Even for those as trivial as action figure heroes bred back in the 60's. But is it still a sequel if the main cast is essentially obliterated? That's for us to deduce and, honestly, not care about. "G.I. Joe" gets the evasive makeover with a new director and cast, sustaining few characters while dispatching the rest. Adding to the group is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who apparently has joined every franchise out there within arm's reach. Continuing from the conclusion of "Rise of Cobra," "Retaliation" is, for all intents and purposes, a sequel. Sticking to the same foolproof formula of explosions and gunfights, it's a no brainer when it comes to full-fledged action over any given substance. The icing on the cake is the array of ninjas, high-flying and deadly as any kid's fantasy. Yet through it all, the plot seems more lackadaisical than the first, feeling disjointed and cheesier than already could be imagined. Sure, "Cobra" was no award-winner in its quest for world domination, but it was entertaining to say the least and fun in a blameless sort of way. "Retaliation," alternatively, seems vexing at times, trying too hard to be contemporary in its wit and humor. And despite the commemorative introduction of the infamous Cobra Commander, his actual presence is minimal during the hostile takeover. Most will argue that this is a movie designed virtually for the kid at heart, not to be taken seriously because, hey, it's cool. But given the track record of recent Hasbro productions, I'd rather take my chances with the next "Transformers" sequel.
Rating: 2 stars
Release Date: Mar 08, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min.
Director: Sam Raimi
Cast: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams, Zach Braff.
Con man and monkey and witches, oh my! In Sam Raimi's colorful re-envisioning of a childhood classic, we return to the wondrous Land of Oz and its curious inhabitants. Set before the time of Dorothy and her beloved Toto, "Oz" tells the story of the prophesied wizard and his battle against the Wicked Witch of the West. Starring James Franco in the role of the titular Oz, we learn of his early beginnings as a showy con artist and magician, and how he came to be the ruler of the Emerald City. Franco, fortuitously, seems to be the right choice for this role, as his intelligence and laid back attitude go hand in hand to project a likable character. Opposite his leading ladies he balances their persona with confidant airiness, whether it's the malevolent Rachel Weisz or effervescent Michelle Williams. Mila Kunis, on the other hand, seems misfit for her role, perhaps too young and less punchy than one would hope. It's the two animated characters, Finley and China Girl, who provide a sense of magical humor, a component that's necessary to inhabit a world that's overly embellished with special effects. Vibrant and cartoonish, the film is a stark contrast to the 1939 picture when technology was more modest and not nearly as advanced. But fans of the original can rest assure. Raimi gives plenty of nods to the timeless classic through referential imagery, nostalgia playing the key role here of mediator. If anything, "Oz The Great and Powerful" is more of a solo adventure all on its own, tantalizing for the kids and entertaining for the adults. With the start of "Alice in Wonderland" and last year's "Snow White and the Huntsman," the trend of retold fairy tales will go far beyond the yellow brick road. Rumor has it, "Beauty and the Beast" may take the leap next.
Rating: 3½ stars
Release Date: Feb 08, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min.
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Cast: Jude Law, Rooney Mara, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Channing Tatum.
The rules to a psychological thriller are discerningly simple: keep the mind engaged and the suspense on high. Some 'side effects' may include excessive thinking, feelings of disillusionment, or an accelerated heart rate. At least, that's the intention of Soderbergh's latest endeavor, a poignant braintwister and allegedly last, directorial feature. While finales are generally extravagant by any means necessary, his inclination towards subtlety is anything but that. Starring Jude Law and Rooney Mara in dramatically-charged performances, "Side Effects" delves deep into the extremities of doctor and patient relations. Much like "Contagion," the film thrives on self-inflicted paranoia, shifting its focus to the often controversial pharma industry where risks are neglected. Here, Mara as the drug-induced Emily Taylor plays victimization at its best, and she does it so effortlessly in her state of delusion. Law, correspondingly, is just as effectual, earning empathy in his role of misinterpreted guidance. But in spite of the perplexities that shroud the elusive plot line, the tension feels flaccid once the twist is ultimately revealed. It may be due to the pace that inadvertently dulls it down, as it's certainly not predictable at any given moment. Even so, Soderbergh still administers another thriller that leaves a lingering numbness. If what he says is true, the effect may be permanent.
Rating: 3½ stars
Release Date: Feb 01, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 38 min.
Director: Jonathan Levine
Cast: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, John Malkovich, Dave Franco.
Boy meets girl, boy falls for girl, boy comes back to life. In a bizarre twist on a traditional love story, "Warm Bodies" is not your typical zombie movie. But then again, this is not your typical zombie. Based on the creatively-infused novel by Isaac Marion, comes a reimagined apocalypse that is far from dreary. Nicholas Hoult plays "R," a recluse residing amongst the fellow undead in an abandoned airport. After a routine trip to the city to feed on the living, he meets Julie, a strong-willed girl with a loaded gun, and is instantly enamored. As oddities would have it, R gradually starts to transform in ways assumed impossible and in return, offers a quirky introspection from the view of the undead. For a film that heavily involves a lot of grunting and inner narratives, it's endearingly funny when it needs to be. Hoult as the awkward teenager, and a dead one at that, is charmingly sincere in his attempts at affection, and oftentimes it's his vacant gestures that speak louder than words. Similarly, Rob Corddry gets a lot of comedic attention with his one or two-worded phrases, spoken as whispers but effective nonetheless. While books usually have the upper-hand in thoroughly cultivating a story, Levine does a balanced job in translating to film. The steady insight of R and his portrayal of humanity are what really bring a fresh approach to a tired genre, giving depth to something so unexpectedly new. In a way, this may be a drawback for those who are gung-ho about flesh-eating zombies, as there is some but not a whole lot of rigorous feeding. In addition, it's not like "Zombieland" as many perceive it to be, less focused on action-comedy than it is on romance. Regardless, "Warm Bodies" finds a happy medium between the two, comfortably funny and heart-warming as well. Though we've had our share of vampires and werewolves pining for love, it's the lone zombie that determinedly trumps them all. Go figure.
Rating: 4 stars
Release Date: Jan 11, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min.
Director: Ruben Fleischer
Cast: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn, Emma Stone, Anthony Mackie, Robert Patrick, Giovanni Ribisi, Nick Nolte, Michael Peña.
Take "Public Enemies" with a dose of "Ocean's Eleven" and you have yourself "Gangster Squad," a crime thriller with a tendency for humor. And that's basically what it is, a hodgepodge of sorts, not too serious but not meant to be all that funny. So what makes it your run-of-the-mill, shoot-to-kill gangster movie? Tommy guns, of course. Set in Los Angeles during the early 50's, ex-boxer Mickey Cohen is hell bent on taking over the city by any means necessary. Left with no other choice but to fight violence with violence, Sgt. John O'Mara puts together a squad of tough individuals to take down the notorious crime boss, and save their domain from further corruption. Josh Brolin leads the cast of well-known individuals, including the likes of Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Robert Patrick and Giovanni Ribisi. But such talents are no match for a slack screenplay that boasts cheesy dialogue; rather, gunning for the glitz and glam of old Hollywood interspersed by a barrage of gunfire. And there's not a whole lot of intensity, save for Sean Penn's curmudgeonly stares, that keeps the film active or attention-grabbing. Its glossy appearance is only appreciated when its attractive stars strut around, namely Gosling and Stone who reunite for another tête-à -tête. But even they can't keep the chemistry alive when there's not much of a story to build upon. While the blame can be partially placed on the able-minded screenwriter, one can't neglect the credibility of the director. As Fleischer's previous and only two films were both comedies, one of which was the ingenious "Zombieland," it's obvious where there lies the discrepancy. Admitted, it's not that easy to switch over in genres, it still feels like a loss when it comes to the cast and what could have been. Nevertheless, "Gangster Squad" does have some slick scenes, or two. You'll just have to bare with the rest to get through it.
Rating: 2 stars
Release Date: Jan 11, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 37 min.
Director: Kathryn Bigelow
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Mark Strong, Joel Edgerton, Chris Pratt, James Gandolfini, Edgar Ramirez.
'The greatest manhunt in history' started with a belief. A belief that obsessive compulsion and dogged determination were all it took to reach end's goal. It took the belief of one woman...and with it brought forth the elimination of the world's most wanted fugitive. Influenced by the true events of the capture and demise of Osama bin Laden, "Zero Dark Thirty" is a rapt political thriller that's compelling to say the least. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow who brought us "The Hurt Locker," it's another edge-of-your-seat gripper that represents the fallouts of war. Intelligently written from an informative standpoint, the synopsis is one that connects with many. After the tragedy of 9/11 our nation sought compensation for the loss of security, and "Zero Dark Thirty" gravely recalls the events that transpired. Though the film can be construed as an ensemble piece thanks to the many personnel that make up the operation, it essentially falls upon the shoulders of Jessica Chastain who plays the central heroine. Her character's fixation with bin Laden is a cardinal turning point during the elusive manhunt, and the driving force for the bulk of the story. While Chastain has had her share of star-turning performances in supporting roles, it's her role as Maya that really demonstrates her abilities as leading lady, by way of her cool demeanor and steadfast attitude. As we follow her on a decade-long run of uncovering breadcrumbs, we discover that there's more to the story than meets the public eye. That being said, the actual raid that's so heavily depicted in the trailer doesn't actually occur until the very end, producing the climactic portion of the film. Despite knowing the fate of the assault, the suspense is not one to be discounted, as every creak and stir is felt in the deft silence. It bares a resemblance to fellow political thriller "Argo" whose plot was also predetermined in nature. Coincidentally, they also share an actor (Kyle Chandler) and composer (Alexander Desplat), making for a more interesting race in the win for Best Picture. While it's still too difficult to make a judgement call on which deserves the coveted statuette, my early vote is leaning towards "Argo" for its directing and ensemble casting. Either will be a win win over "Lincoln."
Rating: 5 stars
Release Date: Dec 25, 2012
Runtime: 2 hr. 38 min.
Director: Tom Hooper
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, Eddie Redmayne.
There are songs that get stuck in your head, popular songs you know by heart and replay like a broken record. Then there are songs you just know innately, like a fleeting memory that ebbs in and out of subconsciousness. "I Dreamed A Dream" is audibly one of them, and if you don't know it by now then you've been sorely missing out. Deeply rooted and emotionally stirring, it is the heart and soul of "Les Misérables," the world-renowned Broadway musical based on the novel by Victor Hugo. Sung by Anne Hathaway in what could be deemed as the role of a lifetime, her singular performance can only be described as completely riveting. Case in point: the audience remained silently transfixed through her impassioned rendition, at which point the conclusion was met with a collective sigh. While credit duly lies in the intimate capture by director Tom Hooper, it's all Hathaway when it comes to invoking heavy despair, a justification for the Oscar she's inevitably set to win. That's not to say the rest of the cast is completely outshone. Hugh Jackman as central protagonist Jean Valjean is terrifically on point, while Helena Bonham Carter and Sasha Baron Cohen make for a rousing duo. If anyone gets a second tier rating amongst the thespians, it's Russell Crowe, who does give a concerted effort for the most part. Despite his domineering presence as antagonist Javert, his vocals get lost in the grandiosity of the film, neither projecting nor leaving much of an impression. It may be due to the fact that all of the singing is performed live, an aspect that Hooper is all too proud of; but it does add a quality of realism and rawness that extends beyond the borders of the silver screen. In a way it's like watching an actual production of a show, with greater the capacity and special effects. Moreover, the transitions between scenes are seamless in scale, moving from one height of perspective to another. It's evident that film editing is key in telling a story of such proportions, especially one as cherished as "Les Misérables." Albeit, the film does lose its stamina by the last hour of singing and bereavement, it does spark a revival of a genre that's all too often forgotten. Even if you aren't a fan of plays and musical now, it may be time you pay a visit to your local theater.
Rating: 4 stars
Release Date:Dec 25, 2012
Runtime:2 hr. 21 min.
Director:Quentin Tarantino
Cast:Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Walton Goggins.
Like Jackson Pollock with a splattered canvas, no one paints violence quite like Quentin Tarantino. Following up the vengeful Nazi escapade titled "Inglorious Basterds" comes the next entry in the unofficial series that is equally merciless. Jamie Foxx stars as Django, slave-turned-bounty hunter, who finds an unexpected ally in the presence of Christoph Waltz. Together they dispatch criminals as justice sees fit, but more importantly seek to rescue his wife from the clutches of plantation owner Calvin Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. If there's a lesson learned from past Tarantino films, it's that revenge is a dish best served heated, and Django is a man that's all too fired up. Set during the time of slavery against a panoramic backdrop, "Unchained" is externally a 'spaghetti western.' Ultra-violent and insubordinate, it has no qualms in flaunting casualties. While some scenes are unsettling to watch for more than a breath, others are stylized in a way that's unignorable. It's not often that the color red is so dramatically grotesque, yet imploringly beautiful all at the same time. With respect to the acting, it's no surprise here that Tarantino pulled from the best of the crop. His knack for creating such charmingly sinister villains is consistently legitimate and DiCaprio can now be regarded as one of them. His portrayal of Candie is initially amicable in the throes of negotiation but gradually reveals the ruthlessness that lurks beneath. On the flip side, Waltz takes on his first 'good guy' role as Dr. King Schultz, a small departure from his role has Jew hunter, Hans Landa. It's a nice change of pace for the talented actor who always manages to materialize an engaging character. This time, however, it's Samuel L. Jackson who takes the lead in stealing the spotlight, playing the bigoted head slave, Stephen. His intolerable attitude is infuriating to say the least, a sure way of saying he's done his job properly. Though it's unclear how closely "Unchained" connects to "Basterds," it's certain that there will be a third feature. To where Tarantino goes next should be a controversy in itself.
Rating: 4 stars
Release Date: Dec 21, 2012
Runtime: 2 hr. 14 min.
Director: Judd Apatow
Cast: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Megan Fox, Albert Brooks, Chris O'Dowd, Melissa McCarthy.
The saying 'misery loves company' may have been a euphemism for Judd Apatow's own mid-life descent into 40. Acting as the sort-of sequel to the hit "Knocked Up," his latest exposé shows us the many pitfalls with turning the milestone, and the strenuousness it takes to create another comic goldmine. Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann reunite as volatile couple, Pete and Debbie, who have all but given up on themselves. Raising unruly kids and fending off financial woes, the two are on the brink of implosion
— or what some would simply call 'marriage.' Like any Apatow production, insights here aren't doled out gently, as unfiltered jokes and belligerence take on the meaning of comedy. And consequently, the film does have its moments when it's genuinely laugh-out-loud funny and not remotely contrived. But these moments are rare as they come as they're folded aimlessly into an uneven script that rises and falls like a studio-composed laugh track, set to being more of a drama than an actual comedy. Unlike "40-Year-Old" and "Knocked Up" before it, there seems to be no straight story format to follow, instead depicting a compilation of arguments and situations that belittle the characters. While Rudd and Mann both give credible performances, at the end of the day, it's their multitude of issues that effectively consume them, and make them all the less appealing. While "This Is 40" is a barely perceptible improvement over "Funny People," there could still be some hope for Apatow just yet. It may just be as producer rather than director.
Rating: 2½ stars
Release Date: Dec 14, 2012
Runtime: 2 hr. 49 min.
Director: Peter Jackson
Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ken Stott, Graham McTavish.
"The Lord of the Rings" was a pivotal journey if ever there was one. Written by J.R.R. Tolkien and adapted by Peter Jackson, it amassed a following of epic proportions, while it opened a world full of fantasy and adventure that spanned over the course of an extensive trilogy. Now almost a decade later, Jackson revisits the series that catapulted his career, transporting us back to Middle Earth where it all began. Taking place before the events of "LOTR," "The Hobbit" is, foremost, a prequel. Introducing new characters, as well as carrying over old ones, it goes without saying the buildup is expectedly slow. After much long-winded ambling, it's not until the 45 minute mark that things decidedly pick up, with dangerous situations arising at every turn. Like embracing an old friend, the settings are discernibly familiar. Ranging from The Shire to Rivendell, panoramic views of Jackson's constructed world are abundantly present and overtly realistic to a certain degree. Interestingly enough, majority of the critics' negativity seem to stem from this new technology enhancement (48fps vs. 24fps), which many find to be unnecessary and frivolous. However tempting as it may be, it's usually safe to assume that 2D is the viable way to go, at least for the first go around. What matters here are the story and characters that encompass the film, even if they're not always on key. Considering "The Hobbit" is only one book on its own, the plot is prepensely stretched thin. As a result, progress is all but limited to capture and escape, a repetitious but entertaining means of advancement. In addition, "Unexpected Journey" is considerably more lighthearted than "LOTR," with humorous jabs from the Dwarves and Goblins alike. Slightly less monotonous than "The Fellowship of the Ring," "Journey" goes by fairly quickly considering the drawn out time stamp. By the end of the film, Baggins, played perfectly by Martin Freeman, optimistically proclaims that 'the worst is behind them.' But knowing Jackson and his lofty reputation, this is only the beginning of what is to come.
Rating: 3½ stars
