Fright Night

Release Date: Aug 19, 2011  

Runtime: 1 hr. 46 min. 

Director: Craig Gillespie 

Cast: Colin Farrell, Anton Yelchin, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, David Tennant, Imogen Poots, Toni Collette.

Adding to the list of random remakes is “Fright Night,” a retelling of a cult classic, about a teenage boy who discovers his neighbor is a vampire. But unlike the existing perception of romanticized nightwalkers, this one sticks close to the myth, and brings back the fear that goes hand in hand with the fictional creature. Colin Farrell plays the neighborly bloodsucker, Jerry Dandrige, who feeds on the unknowing residents of suburbia. In a role previously defined by Chris Sarandon, Farrell deftly claims his own portrayal, and imparts a menace that is thinly masked beneath the charm and watchful eyes. Likewise, David Tennant replaces Roddy McDowall as Peter Vincent; this time acting as a Vegas magician obsessed with the dark arts. Along with the pulsing tension and special effects, it’s Tennant’s eccentric performance that really shines onscreen. Opposite the seasoned actors are Anton Yelchin and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as the adolescence who uncover the secret. While Yelchin has been gaining recognition, Mintz-Plasse continues to surprise in his roles, departing from the ‘McLovin’ days that put him on the map. For those unfamiliar with the original story, it’s basically “Disturbia” meets “Zombieland” in modern comparison, as suspense is divided into equal balance of horror and comedy. In addition, the score by Ramin Djawadi is seamlessly fitted, giving it a distinct sound reminiscent of the classics. Though the film may not capture the full impact of the original, it still conveys a freshness that should leave fans pleased. On a side note, Farrell looks to be making an impressive return to mainstream, as this is his second film of the summer, as well as the first of two reboots he’s headlining. If “Fright Night” is any indication, he has plenty more to show in his burgeoning career.

Rating: 3½ stars

 

The Change-Up

Release Date: Aug 05, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min. 

Director: David Dobkin 

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman, Leslie Mann, Olivia Wilde, Alan Arkin.

When “Freaky Friday” goes R-rated, there’s no limits as to what can be said or done. And “The Change-Up” attests to that, giving a crude spin on a fable that is a surefire way to get the laughs. Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman star as two friends who are complete opposites, but long for the other’s ‘stress-free’ life. Thanks to a magical fountain, their wish gets granted, and it’s safe to guess what happens next. With credentials backed by the director of “Wedding Crashers” and the writers of “The Hangover,” there’s no shortage of raunchiness or ballsy humor (literally) to spare. But even as the premise of body swapping is far from original, and noticeably passé, this isn’t the reason why it doesn’t work as well as it should. Like the characters switching lifestyles, the film undergoes dual personalities, and doesn’t stay fixedly to one genre alone. On the one hand, it’s a gross-out comedy. Having no restraint and habitually cringe inducing, it’s sporadically funny when the situation permits. Ergo, the jokes can seem forced and contrived at times, purely conjecturing on what the audience likes. On the other hand, it’s a sort-of drama. The characters face issues that make them question their lives, thus eventually leading to the conventional self-discovery and wish fulfillment. Reynolds and Bateman play their part—or rather counterpart—well, and it’s the role swap that makes it enjoyable for the most part. Bateman is able to leave behind his ‘nice-guy’ persona to mouth off expletives instead. But the profanity-blazon dialogue is more or less a means to get by, and doesn’t amend the unbalanced storyline that comes with it. While “The Change-Up” is not one of the better comedies of the summer, it may be inclined to subjectivity. I, for one, prefer Bateman’s similar take in “Horrible Bosses.”

Rating: 2½ stars

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Release Date: Aug 05, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min. 

Director: Rupert Wyatt 

Cast: James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Andy Serkis, Brian Cox.

It’s been tried and true that reboots have gained a newfound regard when it comes to reviving past franchises, whether outdated or overkilled. Case in point is “Planet of the Apes,” which has brought forth a number of adaptations, sequels, and one failure of a remake to date. But despite facing the critical challenges of leading up to the original mastered by Charlton Heston, “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” does it intelligently well, and brings a novelty that sets it on its own course in history. Placed in modern times, James Franco plays a scientist searching for an Alzheimer’s cure through the testing of chimpanzees. What begins as a genetic experiment, results in heightened intelligence, and consequently sets in motion the uprising of a new breed. Normally one to dictate his roles, Franco forgoes his usual persona, opting for a subdued performance that is simply passable by any standards. The same goes for the rest of the cast that makes less of an impression when compared to the wonder that is Andy Serkis. As Caesar, he incorporates all the traits of a method actor, and commands the screen in every way possible. Witnessing this solely computerized chimp is comparable to the awe of first seeing “Jurassic Park,” or the most recent, “Avatar.” Digital renderings have come a significantly long way, replacing the actual need for specimens that can sometimes be limiting in what they can do. Resultantly, we get a primate that showcases a range of emotion that is equivalent to any human being, and which in return warrants empathy. While not the most action-packed reboot, it certainly engages the mind, and makes up for earlier flaws present in Tim Burton’s interpretation. It's suspenseful and recreates the thrill of discovering an alternate reality, let alone a new franchise. Though August is generally prone to bringing lukewarm activity, “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” proves otherwise and delivers a solid movie that is as good as any popcorn flick can get.

  

Rating: 4 stars

Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Release Date: Jul 29, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 57 min.

Director: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa

Cast: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Marisa Tomei, Kevin Bacon, Jonah Bobo.

Love can be crazy. Love can be stupid. But most of all, love can be rewarding, as seen in what is conceivably the best romantic comedy of the year. “Crazy, Stupid, Love” is aptly titled for a reason, exploring the many facets of romance, from a fading marriage to a first infatuation. Whereas one is spiraling out of control, another is quickly igniting, and not one is none the wiser when it comes to figuring it all out. Boasting a terrific cast and a sharply written script, the film surpasses many rom-coms before it. But it’s the unpredictability that separates it from the rest of the pack, and makes for an entertaining look at an emotional rollercoaster that is ‘love.’ Steve Carell is as charming as ever, playing the soon-to-be-divorced guy who is forced to return to the dating ring. With the help of suave fast-talker, Ryan Gosling, he promptly becomes the lothario that every woman dreams and desires, including the crazy but hilarious Marisa Tomei. However, like all relationships, complications arise, and comical chaos ensues from start to finish. At times funny, and other times uproarious, there isn’t a moment when things get dull. And it’s oftentimes the quiet moments that beat out the dialogue in favor of sentiments. Similar to “Love Actually,” the film covers multiple story arcs, from one couple to the next. But while coming together serendipitously at the end, the jumps are sporadic and make for an uneven structure that is sometimes hard to follow. As one begins to hit its stride, another replaces it, and so forth. Yet, “Crazy, Stupid, Love” is wildly entertaining to say the least, and joins the best of its kind. Leave it to "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" to get it done right.

Rating: 4 stars

Cowboys & Aliens

Release Date: Jul 29, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 58 min. 

Director: Jon Favreau 

Cast: Daniel Craig, Olivia Wilde, Harrison Ford, Sam Rockwell, Paul Dano.

Genres mash-up when the Wild, Wild West meets outer space in Jon Favreau's follow-up project to the mega-success of "Iron Man." Based on a graphic novel of the same title, "Cowboys & Aliens" initially sounds like a rollicking good time, with big stars and an interesting premise. But a thin script and slack dialogue are just a few of many that make this summer blockbuster a humdrum saddle ride through the desert. Does it deliver on its namesake? Sure. There are plenty of cowboys shooting guns and aliens causing mayhem, exactly what you can expect from such a setup. Even Harrison Ford gets in on the action with his glowers and retribution, while the rest of the cast is solid in playing their parts. But with all said and done, the film never really goes any place special, and it takes awhile to gain momentum despite being a western. Halfway through the story feels like a complete synopsis, and only then is it revealed that the reasoning behind the invasion is little more than illogical. Rarely suspenseful or purposely droll, “Cowboys & Aliens” doesn’t go beyond what’s required, and it’s a shame because it could have had potential as a newly shaped genre. By any means, Favreau has already proven in the past that he can do great things when it comes to comic books. This just wasn’t one of them.

Rating: 1½ stars

Friends With Benefits

Release Date: Jul 22, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 47 min.

Director: Will Gluck 

Cast: Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis, Patricia Clarkson, Woody Harrelson, Jenna Elfman, Richard Jenkins, Bryan Greenberg.

The age-old question of can friends be intimate without complications has been around for decades, or as recent as this past January. But while the outcome is utterly predictable and riddled with clichés, "Friends With Benefits" offers its own take on it, and rides on chemistry to improve upon its forgettable doppelganger, "No Strings Attached." Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis star as the experimental couple; he, as a commitment-phobe, and she, as an emotionally-damaged individual. Together, they strike up a perfect balance thanks to a convincing performance by both stars. Kunis continues to raise her stardom as the cool girl-next-door, while Timberlake is surprisingly bearable when he’s playing himself. Adding to the pair is Woody Harrelson as a gay sportswriter, whose comedic timing is impeccable whenever he’s putting Timberlake’s character down. What makes this movie work is its modern look on an old query, implementing cultural references that include flash mobs to digital technology. It’s understandable and all the more relatable when it’s in context and not taking itself too seriously. But when a movie is only as funny as its characters, it doesn’t quite apply when the story takes on a somber sideline. Though meant for character building, it comes too abruptly and digresses from the notion of being a romantic comedy. Nevertheless, “Friends With Benefits” has its perks, if not for Timberlake’s rendition of Kris Kross. 

Rating: 3 stars