Drive

Release Date:Sep 16, 2011
Runtime:1 hr. 40 min.
Director:Nicolas Winding Refn
Cast:Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Albert Brooks, Ron Perlman, Oscar Isaac, Christina Hendricks.

The saying 'less is more' may sound like a cliché but never has it been truer than in conjunction to arguably one of the best films of this year. Directed by Danish filmmaker Nicolas Refn, "Drive" is anything but your average car chase movie and here's why. First off, it has minimal dialogue. Almost to the point of being a silent film, it's the intense calm that speaks louder than words and delves into the unexpected. Furthermore, it has style. Whether it's attributing to classic film noirs or under the influence of contemporary directors, such as Michael Mann or the Coen Brothers, "Drive" is distinguishable enough to leave its trace. Moving slowly to build caliber and then amping up when it needs to, the contrast is stark but works to its advantage. Lastly, it has taste. The soundtrack is atypical for this type of film and embraces the mellowness that is comparable to its central character. Ryan Gosling is the epitome of cool when he's steering the wheel or pining from afar. His quiet charm and forthright acting have all the makings of a Hollywood legend, but it's his merciless attitude that will forever be embedded, and make for one of the most gruesome but notable scenes in recent history. Also battling typecasts is Albert Brooks as the central antagonist. With all jokes aside, Brooks is perfectly suited for this gangster role and just as sharp as his knife-wielding abilities. In any case, "Drive" can be considered an art form or a film open to opinions; you either like it or you don't. But either way, you'll sure be left talking about it and that's what matters.

Rating: 4½ stars

Contagion

Release Date: Sep 09, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 46 min.

Director: Steven Soderbergh 

Cast: Marion Cotillard, Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet.

Fear can come in all shapes and forms, but sometimes, it's what you can't see that's the most dangerous of them all. And so it implies in the viral-disaster thriller from director Steven Soderbergh. When a mysterious virus breaks loose on the population, the CDC is caught in the crossfires, and social mayhem ensues across the globe. Supported by a cast of high-profile actors, Soderbergh brings relevance to today's society with a devastating epidemic that feels terrifyingly surreal, yet seemingly familiar. Through a gritty lens, we witness the paranoia that engulfs the masses, dismantling all sense of security and sanity we have come to withhold. But in spite of the crisis that pans out on screen, there's a lack of mounting tension that keeps the film suspenseful for great periods of time. This is primarily due to the fact that you never quite feel invested in any of the victims of the outbreak. As various stories merge and disperse, the time spent on introducing characters is abbreviated, thus allowing recall to come solely based on faces alone. An exception to the rule is Paltrow, whose presence on screen is ostensibly brief but crucial to the plot. Her pallid face and body convulsions are but a few of the things that resonate from the entirety of the film. However, this goes without saying, the acting is still all-around superb; with names like Damon, Winslet and Cotillard, it's bound to be the case. By the end of the film, you can't help but feel unease as the pieces fall into place, which is probably what Soderbergh was gunning for. Next time you're out and about, you may just think twice about who, or what, you touch.

Rating: 3 stars

Warrior

Release Date: Sep 09, 2011 

Runtime: 2 hr. 19 min.

Director: Gavin O'Connor 

Cast: Joel Edgerton, Tom Hardy, Jennifer Morrison, Frank Grillo, Nick Nolte. 

From the director of “Miracle” comes another inspirational story of overcoming obstacles and defeating the odds. Joel Edgerton and Tom Hardy play estranged brothers from different sides of the track. While one struggles to support his family, the other seeks means of escape from a haunted past, and coincidentally, find themselves on a parallel path to the championship tournament of mixed martial arts. In the same vein as “The Fighter,” O’Connor delivers a solid portrait of combat that goes beyond the ring, or in this case the octagon. During a time when award season is in full swing, “Warrior” proves to be no exception, and bests that of “The Fighter” and many sport sagas before it through sheer emotion. Edgerton and Hardy both deliver powerful performances that will certainly earn praise, but it’s Hardy who gets the upper hand with his brute force and raw determination. For his supporting role, Nick Nolte is a sure bet, with his battered ego and heartfelt remorse. His scenes are nothing short of heart wrenching, if not moving, when he’s biding for acceptance from his sons. Clocking in at over two hours, the film is slow-moving in the first half to build upon the backstories that are required for general purposes. But it’s this concentration on development that heavily benefits the characters in the end, and evokes sympathy for each of the individuals that are fighting for a cause. The interweaving of side elements seem random at times, maybe due to hasty editing, but the result is more or less expected. Though there can only be one winner, it’s difficult to choose a side when both are so deserving of the ultimate prize: redemption. Be sure to have your emotions in check at the door. Even grown men can shed a tear.

Rating: 4 stars

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

Captain America: The First Avenger

Release Date: Jul 22, 2011  

Runtime: 2 hr. 4 min. 

Director: Joe Johnston 

Cast: Chris Evans, Hugo Weaving, Tommy Lee Jones, Sebastian Stan, Hayley Atwell, Dominic Cooper, Stanley Tucci.

The last Marvel hero to hit the big screen this summer is the most valiant of them all, and none other than the first Avenger himself, "Captain America." Set during the height of WWII, soldiers are eager to join in the fight against the Nazis, including a scrawny kid from Brooklyn by the name of Steve Rogers. Small in size, but big on courage, Rogers gets offered a chance at a military experiment that will create a ‘super-soldier,’ thus becoming the ultimate weapon in a time of war. Chris Evans stars as the all-American hero, who’s as brave and selfless as he is endearing. Despite being usually typecast as the wisecrack and jock, Evans affirms he’s more than just a poster boy — as evident in past films such as “Sunshine” — and embraces the role with a demeanor beyond expectations. Aside from the acting, it’s his physical transformation that is most impressive and imaginative. Using digital technology as opposed to body doubles, Joe Johnston and his team bring a whole new meaning to extreme makeover, going from ‘skinny Steve’ to Captain America. The same can be said for the makeup work done on the iniquitous adversary, Johann Schmidt. Leader of HYDRA, and played by the ever-talented Hugo Weaving, Red Skull is profusely menacing, and is one of the more intriguing villains out of comic book movies this year. As far as origin stories go, “First Avenger” is at the top of its class, providing enough details and character buildup, interlaced with smooth action sequences. And much like its companions, humor is an added bonus that keeps the audience entertained, and the characters enjoyable. This includes the sarcastic Tommy Lee Jones who seems effortless when it comes to picking on the ‘little guy.’ As expected, there are indeed noticeable tie-ins to “Iron Man” and “Thor,” as it’s necessary to keep a unified storyline throughout. But the ending, in turn, slightly suffers for it, and makes for a forced entry in a series that is far from being completed. While it’s satisfying to see the continual improvements in these comic book adaptations, the greatest challenge will come in the form of the first ensemble picture next summer, when universes and heroes collide in “The Avengers.” Johnston should consider himself lucky, for Joss Whedon will have plenty of hype to live up to...or behold the wrath of the fanboys. 

Rating: 4 stars

 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Release Date: Jul 15, 2011  

Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min.

Director: David Yates 

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman. 

Little did she know, when J.K. Rowling wrote her first book, that it would amass into one of the most influential landmarks in literary and cinematic history. Spanning seven books and eight films, the boy wizard named “Harry Potter” has seen it all, through thick and thin. But alas, all good things must come to an end, and it’s with sadness to see the epic conclusion to the story of ‘The Boy Who Lived.’ For those who felt "Part 1" was action-less and anticlimactic, "Part 2" begins at the core of it, setting up the ultimate showdown at Hogwarts. Director David Yates saves the best for last, and for good reason too, as battle scenes and mythical creatures match the likes of “Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.” Though dark and solemn throughout, the scenes are by no means dreary, and preserve the cinematography that has encompassed the latter half of the series. That being said, 3-D becomes an unnecessary inclusion that all but dims the richness of quality, aside from a few select scenes that stand out. As Harry, Ron and Hermione’s journey of magical self-discovery comes to a close, so do the ties that bind the young actors to a franchise that has occupied the majority of their lives. Radcliffe, Grint and Watson have come a long way from “Sorcerer’s Stone,” proving their acting abilities alongside veteran actors who have all done a remarkable job with their characters and storylines. Notably, Alan Rickman as Professor Snape has been a flawless portrayal of villainy up until now, and may even rival that of ‘He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.’ While these films can never fully justify the fervor behind the books, there’s no doubt that they have left a deep impression within our culture and our lives. And “Harry Potter” is a name that will be remembered for generations to come.

Rating: 4½ stars

Click here for the review of Part 1. 

Horrible Bosses

Release Date: Jul 08, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 

Director: Seth Gordon 

Cast: Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day, Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, Colin Farrell. 

If you’ve ever dealt with an insufferable boss, then you are not alone. In the vein of “Office Space,” Seth Gordon forays into the lives of three disgruntled workers who are fed up with their workplace. Only, instead of unruly copiers and money laundering, it’s their bosses who become targets of misfortune. Filled with nefarious humor and a terrific cast, "Horrible Bosses" does everything that "Bad Teacher" didn’t do, and then some. Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day play the reckless trio of friends, each set out to murder one another’s superior. Though the three share a well-matched camaraderie, it’s Day who is a standout with his high-pitched voice and squeamish behavior. Opposite him is Jennifer Aniston, who steps away from her comfort zone long enough to play a sex-crazed fiend with no moral boundaries. The unexpectedness of such a role is what makes her relation with Day uncomfortable, and that much more hilarious. Colin Farrell as Sudeikis’ boss is equally unpredictable, as he has no qualms when it comes to firing certain people. Which leaves us with Kevin Spacey, who all but revels in making Bateman’s life miserable. As the three prepare to eliminate these nuisances, they receive help from ‘murder consultant’ Jamie Foxx, aka MF Jones. Of course things don’t go as naturally planned and this is where the story takes on a darker tone. As a result, the jokes wane off towards the end which feels disconnected from scenes prior. But a genuine cast of comical individuals is all it takes to make this one of the best comedies so far this year.

Rating: 3½ stars

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Release Date: Jun 29, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 37 min. 

Director: Michael Bay 

Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel, John Turturro, Tyrese Gibson, Patrick Dempsey, Frances McDormand. 

The battles may have been won, but the war has only just begun in “Dark of the Moon,” the latest installment in Michael Bay’s toy-bot franchise. Following the events of “Revenge of the Fallen,” we find the Autobots aiding as military allies in global conflicts, while the humans have reluctantly returned to their ordinary lives. But that soon changes when a top secret NASA mission resurfaces and exposes a threat that could mean the end for all of mankind. Michael Bay returns to what he knows best, offering up bigger explosions and battle sequences than ever before. And it’s obvious that he had 3-D in mind—whether it’s parachuting from building tops or smashing through rubble—as action fills the extremity of the frames at all angles. Unlike its lacking predecessor, “Dark of the Moon” attempts to tell a more cohesive story, bringing in historical anecdotes and footage regarding the ‘Space Race’ circa 1969. However, this is a summer blockbuster for a reason, and with it comes more of a visual appeal than anything else. This includes the acting, which regrettably has not improved much after the demise that was Megan Fox. In her place is newcomer Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who is nothing more than arm candy for leading man Shia LaBeouf, something of which even his mother (Julie White) takes notice and comments on. Adding to the mix are two eccentric characters played by Ken Jeong and John Malkovich, both who seem like a means of distraction rather than added value. Still, aside from casting mishaps, the second sequel feels like a small improvement—granted without the first hour or so—and that’s more than enough to roll in the big bucks. Don't expect Bay to stray too far from this franchise.

Rating: 2½ stars