This Is 40

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

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

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

Life of Pi

Release Date: Nov 21, 2012  
Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min. 
Director: Ang Lee 
Cast: Suraj Sharma, Irfan Khan, Tabu, Rafe Spall, Gérard Depardieu.

This year in cinema has been full of ocular exuberance, from the superhero-laden "The Avengers" to the multi-periodic "Cloud Atlas." But none has ignited the screen quite like Ang Lee's "Life of Pi," an incredible journey that brims with heart and imagination. Based on the best-selling novel about a boy lost at sea, the film explores the ulterior lining between faith and reasoning. As much a spiritual tale as it is one of bravery, it recounts the events from his fledgling childhood to his enlightened adulthood. And it is there that the story begins, eventually culminating in the life-altering tragedy that ultimately becomes an awakening. Ang Lee takes us on a vivid ride through the colorful landscapes of India and to the depths of the majestic Pacific. By way of dazzling effects and intelligent use of 3D, he captures an ethereal world in a place that's as vacant as the sea. The sheer scope of it is enough to create a sense of wonder, similar to watching an episode of Discovery's "Planet Earth" but at a far superior scale. Be that as it may, the theme of the film is prone to speculation, as some may find it more preaching than others. The topic of faith, while an overarching aspect, is not the sole purpose of the film however, and it takes one with an open mind to see past that. Suraj Sharma as the titular Pi projects an inexperienced youth on the brink of self-discovery. As he had no prior acting experience to the role, he plays to the best of his aptitude, albeit neither above or below expectations. In any case, "Life of Pi" will surely amass a great deal of accolades in the upcoming months. Whether you choose to believe or not is entirely up to you.

Rating: 4½ stars

Skyfall

Release Date: Nov 09, 2012 
Runtime: 2 hr. 23 min. 
Director: Sam Mendes 
Cast: Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Judi Dench, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw.

50 years ago, audiences everywhere were first introduced to the greatest spy in British history. Suave, intelligent, and lethal with a weapon, he was iconically personified by three distinct numbers: 007. Now half a century later, James Bond returns in impeccable fashion, tallying in his 23rd outing which may befittingly be his best. Sam Mendes takes over directing duties for the lucrative franchise that has withstood the test of time — six different Bonds to be exact. Favorably for him, one thing that remains intact is its previous star Daniel Craig who reprises his role for the third time. Since making his debut in "Casino Royale," Craig has built a distinguishable reputation amongst fans with his unconventional looks and aggressive manner. It's in "Skyfall" that his concerted efforts finally pay off in full, solidifying him in a role he seemed destined to play. Opposing but equally proficient is Javier Bardem as Bond's maniacal foe, Raoul Silva. Not a stranger to villainy, ie. "No Country for Old Men," Bardem delivers another spectacular performance that leaves a lingering uneasiness, and whose objective hits close to home. His albino features and muted wickedness are subject to praise, and reasons to ascertain that he'll be remembered as one of the best villains ever. Concordantly, "Skyfall" is also the most alluring of the Bond films, with sweeping views of Shanghai and Macau just to name a few. The beauty of locales adds grandness to the celebration of 50 years in the making, and sets the bar even higher for years to come. It's a testament to filmmaking that quality prevails over redundancy at a time when sequels are a dime a dozen. While Craig's time as Bond is reluctantly limited, the same can't be said for the on-going series. It's just a matter of who does it better in the immediate future. For now, Mendes can proudly hold that title.

Rating: 4½ stars

Flight

Release Date: Nov 02, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 18 min. 

Director: Robert Zemeckis 

Cast: Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, John Goodman, Bruce Greenwood.

He's traveled back to the future, and taught us life is like a box of chocolates. Now Robert Zemeckis takes to the skies in his latest venture, "Flight." Denzel Washington stars as Whip Whitaker, an airline captain with a taste for bad habits. Boozed up and high on cocaine, he maneuvers a miraculous landing that is deemed ergonomically impossible. But what starts out as a heroic tale of death-defying feats, quickly down-spirals into a dissection of behavioral destruction, providing a hard look into substance abuse and all that it entails. It's a grim subject matter that only gets grimmer over the course of the two-hour film, and Zemeckis thoroughly divulges the details. For the most part, the story is far from uplifting as Whitaker is hardly likeable in his states of misdeeds and intoxication. Just when you think his life will turn around, he quarrels with temptations that hinder any development. Washington, in a semi-new kind of role, gives a dynamic performance as the alcohol-abusing pilot. Ambling between the lines of good and bad, he makes his actions believable to the point of diluted sympathy. On his side are Don Cheadle and Bruce Greenwood who both deliver favorable support as his attorney and former colleague, respectively. Their plead for intervention adds a heightened reality, whereas the inclusion of Kelly Reilly as druggie-turned-girlfriend feels forced by convention. Apart from the nail-biting opening with the aforementioned landing, the rest of the film moves rather languidly much like its inebriated core. A good character study, be that as it may, "Flight" is in no way a thrilling ride.

Rating: 3 stars

Cloud Atlas

Release Date: Oct 26, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 52 min. 

Director: Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski, Tom Tykwer 

Cast: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, James D'Arcy, Zhou Xun, Keith David, David Gyasi, Susan Sarandon, Hugh Grant.

Some say our actions are what defines us. Every decision, every choice, casting a ripple in a sea with infinite repercussions. It's what characterizes and unifies us in human nature, and effectively draws the basis for this year's most profound vision in filmmaking. Daunting, prolific, and transcendent...these are but a few of the words that could aptly describe "Cloud Atlas." Directed by the Wachowski siblings in conjunction with Tom Tykwer, and based on the novel of the same name, the film is ambitiously divided into a study of six narratives. In one instance, it's a harrowing tale of neglected slavery, while in another, it's a retribution for hidden truth. Each individual story has a purpose or undertone, but it's how they connect that resonates with some viewers, or becomes too cumbersome for others. With no exact structure in storytelling, scenes jump sporadically in multiple sessions, while actors diversify in various roles. It gets to be a game of who's who in racial-bending transformations, but in the long run a feeble attempt at breaking any barriers. While a select few are successful in being relatively unrecognizable, the facial-alterations for 'Neo Seoul' are shockingly disconcerting, if not befuddling. Already having gained controversial allegations, it's questionable as to why additional casting wasn't made to avoid such eccentric modifications. Nonetheless, there are some positives to be enumerated, the score being one of them. Tykwer, along with his longtime collaborators Reinhold Heil and Johnny Klimek, have created a musical masterpiece that envelops the auditory senses. From a multi-piece orchestra to a simple stroke of the piano, the music reverberates a wide range of emotion — particularly the "Cloud Atlas Sextet" that is the magnus opus for one of the characters. Powerful and moving, the score is a likely contender for the upcoming award season, alongside the cinematography which is simply breathtaking. But as trying as it seems, the film is a toss-up when it comes to overall impression. Being grandiose and heavily layered, it bites off more than it can chew, not fully coming to fruition immediately after viewing. Though utterly unique, "Cloud Atlas" is open to discussion: you either like it or you don't. As for me, it falls somewhere in between.

Rating: 2½ stars

Taken 2

Release Date: Oct 05, 2012 
Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min. 
Director: Olivier Megaton 
Cast: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Rade Sherbedgia, Luke Grimes.

When in doubt, you stick to what you know, and for Olivier Megaton, it's taken quite literally. (no pun intended.) Acting as a followup to the 2008 breakout hit, "Taken 2" shows little to no indication of change. Liam Neeson returns as vigilante Bryan Mills, this time taking on the vengeful Albanians in Istanbul, Turkey. When he and his wife become the targets of abduction, it's up to his teenage daughter to step in and break them free. As plausibility was never a strong suit for the original, it continues to be the weak link here. Maggie Grace as victim-turned-survivor is somehow less convincing as a heroine than Neeson's ability to blindly memorize road maps. With all logic aside, the comicalness of such daring feats is irrepressible upon seeing a feeble girl who is suddenly a stuntman behind the wheel. Similarly, the rate of death or disturbances that go unnoticed in the city is highly debatable, though it's far less vehement than the first go around. While the action is comparatively sparse due to his brief captivity, Neeson upholds his end of the bargain when it comes to ass-kickage. Age knows no bounds with a man on a mission, and he's not one to go down without a fight. Disappointingly, the final showdown doesn't share the same sentiment, ending sooner than you can say "Taken 3." But another sequel there will be, as box office numbers don't lie. With nothing left to be taken, it's justly due for a new course.

Rating: 2½ stars

Argo

Release Date: Oct 12, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr.

Director: Ben Affleck 

Cast: Ben Affleck, Alan Arkin, John Goodman, Bryan Cranston, Victor Garber.

If someone had said back then that Ben Affleck would direct not one, but three Oscar-worthy films, it would have sounded preposterous. The guy who starred in such flops as "Daredevil" and "Jersey Girl," not to mention the ill-fated "Gigli." Yet as inconceivable as it may be, he's proven himself time and time again, delivering quality dramas that equal the fortitude of any trained director. Continuing this momentum, his third effort "Argo" is easily his greatest achievement yet, and ranks as one of the best films to be released this year. Based on the wildly true story of the 'Canadian Caper,' it recounts the rescue mission of six American delegates during the Iranian hostage situation. Starring Affleck himself in the role of CIA specialist Tony Mendez, he joins a diverse cast of talents to create movie magic — the movie in this case being a science-fantasy adventure titled "Argo." Under the guise of a fake production, and with the aid of the Canadian embassy, he undertakes an impossible mission that will decide the fate of innocent civilians. Tense, detailed — and often than not — engagingly funny, the film is a melting pot of sensational performances as well as dramatizations. From the opening scene at the U.S. embassy, the intensity is palpable, eliciting fear and anxiety which carry throughout in intervals. As a counterintuitive, humor is then deliberately introduced by the likes of John Goodman and Alan Arkin; a genius combo that double-handedly steals every scene they're in, dispensing more laughs than typical comedies. It's this blend of tautness and witticism that makes for an engaging rollercoaster ride, while synchronizing events that occur in real time. Affleck, for his part, is as conducive in front of the camera as he is behind it, attesting once again that he is his own best muse. His scraggly appearance doesn't mask the fact that he's grown as an actor who's had his fair share of critical disappointments. While the story itself is not unfamiliar, and the outcome already foreseeable, it's still a heart-pounding race that never lets up until the final remaining seconds. Non-fictional or not, "Argo" is certainly a film worth viewing because come award season, this is the one to watch.

Rating: 5 stars

End of Watch

Release Date: Sep 21, 2012 
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: David Ayer 
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña, Anna Kendrick, Frank Grillo, America Ferrera.

If you ever wondered what an episode of "Cops" would look like with Hollywood actors and a scripted dialogue, then look no further. Written and directed by the writer who brought you "Training Day," "End of Watch" follows two partners in their day-to-day routine in the tumultuous line of duty. Using personal cameras via the 'found footage' approach, it's an intimate yet dramatically intense look into the violence that plagues South Central LA. More importantly, it's about the camaraderie that the two characters share that drives the bulk of the movie, adding humanity that's commonly forgotten in such hard-hitting genres. Gyllenhaal expands his range playing the reckless Brian Taylor, alongside Peña who continues to be an underrated but immensely talented actor. As the camera accompanies the two on their drug busts and house calls, it's easy to get caught up in the moment when brutality erupts. Having done a handful of films regarding law enforcement already, Ayer is a pro when it comes to embellishing the action. He also manages to conjure a bit of humor whenever the lead actors aren't too busy pummeling victims, a thankful reprieve from all the violence. Though the film feels almost like a mesh of assorted episodes, the final climax is enough of an adhesive to bring it all together. Not to be one that's outdone by himself, Ayer gives us another solid film that pushes the boundaries.

Rating: 4 stars

Looper

Release Date: Sep 28, 2012 
Runtime: 1 hr. 59 min. 
Director: Rian Johnson 
Cast: Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emily Blunt, Paul Dano, Noah Segan, Jeff Daniels, Piper Perabo.

Whether it's past, present, or future, the concept of time travel has perpetually eluded even the most brilliant of minds. How does it work, and who or what does it affect? Do multiple timelines exist, and if so, which is the reality? While the answers may never be concrete, Rian Johnson explores the possibilities in his latest project, "Looper." Set in two variations of the future, crime bosses use time travel to dispose of unwanted bodies, delegating so-called "Loopers" to get the job done. The only rule of thumb? Don't lose your target. For Joe (Gordon-Levitt), it's a mundane life with high rewards and low risks...until the day he makes the error of letting his future self (Willis) get away. If you expected a fast-paced thrill ride as shown in the trailer, then you'd be somewhat disappointed. While the film exhibits classic sci-fi elements, it also circumvents the usual parameters surrounding time travel, instead questioning the moralities behind it in a 'what if' type of situation. Heavily allegorical at times, and slow to transpire, the plot is more intricate than it initially implies. And that's where it gets tricky as variables come into play, with Old Joe wanting one thing and Young Joe wanting another. It's enough to make your mind churn with paradoxes and plot holes, in addition to a secondary storyline that seems strangely out of place. But Johnson gets credit for originality and audaciousness, crafting a sci-fi thriller that hinges on perplexity, not to mention casting two leads who look nothing alike. Prostheses or not, Joseph Gordon-Levitt does a brilliant job of playing young Bruce, voice mimicry and all, to the point where it's eerie when the two share the same screen. Willis, himself, gives a moving performance while retaining his tough guy ego, undoubtedly being one of his best to date. With the recent surge of highly-stylized, futuristic reboots, a la "Total Recall" and "Dredd," it's refreshing to see a stripped down version that does more with less. While "Looper" is by no means a flawless time travel conception, it's still honestly thought-provoking. Just don't overthink it too much or you may find yourself closing the loop.

Rating: 3½ stars

Dredd

Release Date: Sep 21, 2012  
Runtime: 1 hr. 36 min. 
Director: Pete Travis 
Cast: Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Lena Headey, Wood Harris, Langley Kirkwood.

In a city overrun with criminals and devastation, there are those who willingly serve and protect. They are the Judges: enforcers and executioners in one; beaten by few and yielded by many. But one man alone is feared above the rest, and he goes fittingly by the name of Dredd. Based on the popular British comic "2000 AD," and the only other adaptation since 1995, "Dredd" is a resurgence from the dilapidated past. To call it a superior reboot is nothing short of gratuitous, as the bar was never set that high in the first place. And for that reason it seems to work to its advantage, erasing old remnants that were unarguably beyond salvaging. Karl Urban's Dredd is a progression in itself, not a superhero per se, but a hero nonetheless. And the obscurity of his identity is what keeps him enigmatic, unlike Stallone who purposely abandoned his helmet, and deviated away from the comic strip altogether. Through Urban's raspy voice and down-turned expression, it's more than enough to deduce his purpose and demeanor as a disciplinarian of the law. The same can't be attributed to Lena Headey's Ma-Ma, who's the so-called mastermind behind the corruption. Her insipid manner is painstakingly boring to watch, equivalent to the slow-motion captures that stay on a few frames too long. Notwithstanding the fact that the plot-driven drug is called "Slo-Mo," the movie could've done with less bullet time and more actual bullets, which there are plenty of by the way. Call it coincidence, or just a matter of poor timing, "Dredd" resembles the previously released "The Raid" in which the objective lies solely in overtaking a high-rise building to apprehend a druglord. Both incredibly violent and gore-tastic to say the least, "Dredd" draws the shorter end of the straw when it comes to originality, even if it originated first. Luckily for him, there will always be scum to incarcerate, though when it'll happen next is still up for debate.

Rating: 3 stars

Lawless

Release Date: Aug 29, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 55 min. 

Director: John Hillcoat 

Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jason Clarke, Guy Pearce, Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowska, Gary Oldman.

Blood runs thicker than water, and for the Bondurant boys, it's no messing matter. Set during the Prohibition era and based on true events, "Lawless" tells the tale of three bootlegging brothers who live a carefree life, while challenging the laws that were made to be broken. But when a ruthless agent comes knocking at their door, it takes more than just loyalty to win back their power. Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy and Jason Clarke play the law-breaking trio, different in every way other than their tutelage. In perhaps his most challenging role yet, LaBeouf leads an intimidating cast as the youngest brother, Jack. His fragility and eagerness to learn exude a disparity against his older siblings who are rugged and assertive, which results in a sometimes admirable, yet irritable performance. On the other hand, Hardy is a man of few words. His formidable grunts and blasé attitude are the source for much needed humor, and a reprieve from a rather dull storyline. This particularly applies to the front half, which treads at a snail's pace. No matter how sensational the acting, ie. Guy Pearce's frightening portrayal of Agent Rakes, it's not enough to invigorate a listless script that could have done more with its material. For one, the use of Gary Oldman is widely undervalued. Appearing in less takes than the barmaid and hired help, it's a head-scratcher as to why he was even casted in the first place. Nevertheless, "Lawless" has no qualms about it and keeps a level mindset. It may be no summer blockbuster but at least it breaks from the herd.

Rating: 2½ stars

The Expendables 2

Release Date: Aug 17, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min. 

Director: Simon West 

Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Dolph Lundgren, Liam Hemsworth, Jet Li, Chuck Norris, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Yu Nan, Scott Adkins.

There was a time when action heroes were all brawn and force. When superpowers were trivial, and ammunition was the method of choice. These were the glory days of the 80's and 90's, marking the star beginnings of some actors, and the contingent end for others. Then came "The Expendables," a collection of the biggest, toughest combatants around, united for one purpose only: death and destruction. Combining the likes of Stallone, Willis, and Schwarzenegger, it was no easy task, however momentary at that. But how does one top such greatness with something even greater? Add Chuck Norris, of course. Stallone and the boys are back for part two of their mercenary games. When one of their own gets taken unexpectedly, it's up to the gang to exact revenge against a lethal new adversary, played by none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme. In a rarity fit for Hollywood, legends unite for another rowdy round of guns and fists that you can only dream of. Van Damme and Norris join in, with the return of Willis and Schwarzenegger, for an all-out resurgence of nostalgia that's gratifying to say the least. Action upon action, "The Expendables 2" is precisely what it sells. Cheesy dialogue, check. Self-referential jokes, check. Colossal explosions and Stallone vs. Van Damme, check and check. It's nothing more, nothing less than mindless activity that keeps the engine running. Accordingly, the story is simple and arid, not meant for any deeper meaning. And half the fun is in deciphering the wordless mumbles by Stallone, who at least gets credit for doing his own stunts. It's the kind of film that know it's bad, that it's actually sort of good. But don't take my word for it, trust in Chuck Norris.

Rating: 3 stars